The Visitor Magazine Issue 436 March 2020

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Issue 436 March 2020

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Longleat release a song to raise money for their Bushfire Charity Appeal See page 4 for details

In Passing...

H

igh in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stands the delightful little Cumbrian town of Alston, and it was there, a couple of years ago, that I came across The Hub. Run entirely by enthusiastic volunteers, it’s a redundant railway goods shed housing the Alston Moor Heritage and Transport Collection of photographs, artefacts, memorabilia, vintage cars and motorbikes, all loaned or given by local people and depicting mainly the recent past, the 20th century.

For those who have long known the town this fascinating collection must surely bring to mind some of the local things they have lost, perhaps lost without regret but nonetheless things that are now missing from their lives. As one of the elderly volunteers told me, ‘memories, that’s what it’s all about’. The name for these hazy recollections of the past, rendered poignant by memory, is nostalgia, and The Hub is not alone in trying to meet the public’s seemingly insatiable demand for it.

Nostalgia is a powerful motivator in encouraging people to volunteer their time, energy, talents and cash to recreate things they fondly remember. And transport, especially steam trains and village stations, features strongly amongst these things, certainly throughout the UK and mainland Europe. Here in Visitorland a group of volunteers has been working since 2005 to preserve Shillingstone station, a stop on the former Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway which closed in 1966. They have lovingly restored and equipped the station buildings, cattle dock and signal box, laid a short stretch of track and acquired a diesel locomotive, recreating a scene redolent of the early 1960s. It’s well worth a visit. So, too, are the East Somerset Railway at Cranmore where steam trains and the engineering works are added attractions, and Yeovil Railway Centre with its locomotive turntable and goods shed.

However, as time passes the number of people who fondly remember such sights

is diminishing and it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract a new generation of volunteers. If living museums such as these are to survive and develop in the years ahead the nostalgia of the aged must be replaced by other motivations – but active involvement in local and engineering history holds little interest for many young people. They face so many other demands on their attention, time and energy in the fast-moving 21st century world, demands they perceive as being more urgent or attractive.

If memories are ‘what it’s all about’ and young people don’t possess those memories, the challenge is to find ways of infusing them with the enthusiasm of the original volunteers and retaining that enthusiasm.

It won’t be easy, but it would be extremely sad to see these hubs of local historical interest close eventually through lack of people to run them.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines April Issue published Thursday 26th March Deadline Friday 13th March

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 Sara Danesh-Pour Managing Director Helen Dunion © The Visitor Ltd. 2020 (Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)

CONTENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED ‑ 34 ANTIQUES ‑ 22 CROSSWORD ‑ 34 GARDENING ‑ 30 HOUSE & HOME Spring Home Improvements ‑ 20 LEISURE ‑ 11 LOOKING GOOD ‑ 18 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES ‑ 4 MOGGS OF WELLS ‑ Business Profile ‑ 28 MOTHERING SUNDAY ‑ 20

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.

MOTORING ‑ 23 NOTICE BOARD ‑ 11 PHONE‑A‑FIRM ‑ 32 PUBS ‑ 24 REMEMBER WHEN ‑ 32 SUDOKU ‑ 11 THEY SAY ‑ 26 WINE & DINE ‑ 27

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR March 2020 3

Mendip publish first-ever carbon emissions report

Mentioned in

Dispatches Song to Boost Funds for Longleat’s Bushfire Charity Appeal

Longleat has released a song to help raise money for their Bushfire Charity Appeal.

Featuring a 30-strong choir made up of staff and keepers, ‘Together’ was written by a member of the Longleat team and recorded at the Cheese & Grain studio in Frome.

As well as the choir, it also includes didgeridoos and Aboriginal voices, along with 40 musical instruments and took 120 studio hours to complete. It was originally played as part of a special Australian Summer event last year celebrating all things Australian and marking the opening of Koala Creek at the Wiltshire attraction.

‘The song, ‘Together’ was inspired by our partnership with South Australia and to celebrate the arrival of our southern koalas,’ said Daisy Mercedes, Longleat’s event manager.

4 THE VISITOR March 2020

Longleat choir recording their song at Frome's Cheese & Grain Studio.

‘The use of song has been a means of communication amongst aboriginals for generations and connects people with the land. The lyrics were written to recognise how people in Australia and across the world come together in both good and bad times.

‘We feel this is a great way for us all to show our support, help raise awareness and fundraise for the people, wildlife and land affected by the bushfires across Australia,’ she added.

The song can be downloaded from iTunes and Google Play. All money raised will go directly to the organisations Longleat is supporting in South Australia. A video, featuring footage from South Australia, the rescue work

undertaken by Longleat keepers and the choir recording the song, can also be viewed on Longleat’s YouTube channel.

Since its launch the ‘Longleat Supports Australia's Suffering Wildlife’ charity appeal has raised close to £27,000 for rescue and rehabilitation programmes in South Australia. In January, two Longleat keepers travelled out to Australia to assist with ongoing rescue efforts from the bushfires.

For more information and to donate to Longleat’s appeal please visit https://www.longleat .co.uk/information/LongleatSupports-Australia's-Suffering-W ildlife. To watch the ‘Together’ video go to https://youtu.be/u8i_u7mX6I.

A comprehensive assessment of current carbon emissions in Mendip has been carried out by the District Council.

The high-level report – the first of its kind ever conducted in the district – assesses the area’s carbon footprint, identifies key sources of emissions, and sets out clear priorities for action and measuring progress.

It represents a starting point in the Council’s journey to carbon neutrality, by providing a baseline for future emissionsreduction planning through their district and communities.

The research lists emissions resulting directly from activity within the district, as well as those associated with gridsupplied energy and emissions occurring outside the district, that can be attributed to activity within Mendip.

The report also includes evaluation of the Mendip’s register of Environment Performance Certificates (EPC), registered vehicles, to provide context for the main sources of emissions, in addition to a highlevel estimate of the district’s fuel and energy consumption emissions.

Key findings reveal that

Mentioned in

Dispatches domestic heat and power consumption account for 25% of the district’s total emissions (220,240 tCO2e). Transport produces 42% of the district’s emissions overall (302,941 tCO2e) with 72% of those emissions (218,872 tCO2e) as a result of on-road transportation.

Car ownership increased by 10% between 2009 and 2018. There are currently 65,600 cars registered in Mendip, with just 0.3% of those being Ultra Low Emission Vehicles.

Portfolio Holder for Strategic Policy and Climate Change, Cllr Tom Ronan, said: ‘Environmental concerns must continue to be the first priority for national and local government.

‘Establishing a picture of our current emissions in Mendip is key to understanding the best approach to becoming carbon neutral. This report will inform future targets for climate action.’

Last year Mendip District Council declared a Climate

Emergency. It pledged to make Mendip carbon neutral by 2030.

Mendip is one of 265 councils to have made the declaration.

Nationally, the UK has committed to the Paris Agreement target, adopted in 2015, to limit global warming to well below 2°C above preindustrial levels.

Roll up, roll up! Theatre Takes Over Shepton Mallet on 6th & 7th March, in a Brilliant Free Festival For All the Family

What would you do if you found a giraffe in your back garden?

What do you know about ancient sea-lizard’s digestive noises? How would you find your way out of an enchanted forest? These are the kind of burning questions that will be asked at an incredible free theatre festival coming to Shepton Mallet in a couple of weeks.

From giraffe musicals to wandering giant Meanderthal puppets, from inclusive productions to storytelling, from a search for the great dragons of Shepton to a 10m Lizard in the Market Square – Shepton will be awash with some colourful creations.

The Festival is being run across four venues in the town and in

From giraffe musicals to wandering giant Meanderthal puppets the Theatre takes over Shepton Mallet on Friday 6th & Saturday 7th March.

the town centre. The event, called All the World’s Our Playground, is being run by Make the Sunshine and Bowlish Infant School and five partner primary

schools in Shepton Mallet St Paul’s CofE (VE), Shepton Mallet Infant School, St Aldhelm’s, Croscombe and Stoke St Michael.

As well as a huge range of

THE VISITOR March 2020 5

Mentioned in

Dispatches talented artists and theatremakers. And it is all about letting children’s creativity and imagination take over the town.

The festival acts have been chosen and designed by a student programming panel as well as through a vote on election day in December where nearly 1,000 children took to the polls.

Information on each show and act can be found by visiting https://www.makethesunshine.co. uk/line-up Thanks to generous support from The Arts Council, Wells Festival of Literature, Literature Works and support from Storm Productions Group, Right Price DIY and Framptons as well as the support of partnering organisations all events will be provided free of charge. Tickets can be booked by visiting www.makethesunshine.co.uk and can be found on Eventbrite but hurry some events have already sold out!

Framptons who are also

sponsoring the event said. ‘We have been based in Shepton Mallet since the 1960’s. As one of the largest employers in the area it is always a privilege to be supporting local schools and community projects. We hope everyone involved enjoys the festival and performances from the children.’

20/25 Anniversary Concert for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and Cheddar Male Choir

Announcing the Cheddar Male Choir 20/25 Concert, Saturday 4th April starting at 7:30pm, doors open at 7pm. To be held at

Draycott Memorial Hall BS27 3UE. The choir is now celebrating its 25th Anniversary along with the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance 20th Anniversary.

The choir are holding this celebration concert to help raise funds for the Air Ambulance which rely on the generosity of the public for support and has operational costs over £4 million a year. The concert will be a great celebration of songs from the musicals, pop charts, spirituals and some traditional male voice songs.

The choir are also fortunate to have the young soloist Poppy

McGhee performing on her violin.

Tickets are £10 and available from Deane’s of Cheddar, a choir member or on sale at the door on the night. Certainly, this is a night not to be missed. If you want any further information just email: contactcheddarmalechoir @gmail.com.

Cheddar Male Choir is a registered charity, founded in 1995. Practices are held on Tuesdays from 7:30 to 9:30pm. at Draycott Memorial Hall. The Choir, whose motto is ‘We Aim to Entertain’, performs around twelve concerts a year for charities and good causes and has helped them raise over £145,000 in its twenty five year history.

New male members are welcome; ability to read music helps but is not essential. Anyone interested in learning more about the Choir should please contact them through their website www.cheddarmvchoir.co.uk.

Somerset Wildlife Trust launches appeal to prevent possible extinction of the county’s Dormice

Cheddar Male Choir, new member always welcome.

Somerset Wildlife Trust has announced an urgent appeal for £35,000 to help secure a positive future for the county’s dormice in the face of possible extinction.

Despite once being common, in

THE VISITOR March 2020 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches the last 100 years, the native hazel dormouse has become extinct in 17 English counties, with recent UK reports showing that their numbers have declined by 51% in just 18 years.

Somerset could easily be the next county to lose its dormouse populations unless positive action is taken now to make their habitats safe, and to provide the best conditions in which these vulnerable, and adorable, little mammals can thrive, now and in the future.

Somerset Wildlife Trust is urging wildlife and nature lovers in Somerset and beyond to

Despite once being common, in the last 100 years, the native hazel dormouse has become extinct in 17 counties.

donate what they can to support additional woodland management and monitoring programmes needed in the county, before Somerset’s dormice are lost without a trace.

Dormice declines are linked to the loss of habitat and decreasing traditional woodland management practices. Across Britain, just 3% of woodlands are

today being managed using traditional management techniques such as coppicing and hedge-laying, while in the 1940s, that figure was almost 50%.

Senior Reserves Manager, Chris Eyles explains, ‘Dormice need well-managed, connected woodlands through which they can safely move to find food, breed and have secure places to

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hibernate - something that is already becoming increasingly problematic for them as we continue to see the impacts of a warming climate. Milder winters can sometimes cause dormice to waken from hibernation before adequate food sources are available. Woodland habitats are disappearing all over the country, so dormice populations are becoming fragmented and their future in Somerset looks uncertain.’

Monitoring their populations to keep them safe: Through regular surveying we know dormice are present on several Trust nature reserves, including Langford Heathfield and Black Rock, but there are plenty more with great potential which are currently not being surveyed! In fact, there are currently only 28 dormouse survey sites across all of Somerset, which is not sufficient to get enough baseline data to understand the true health of the county’s dormouse population. With more funds, we can install more dormouse nest boxes and train new volunteers to regularly survey these sites, so dormice have the best chance of breeding success in the years to come.

Chris continues, ‘Donations to the Dormouse Appeal will help us create ideal dormouse habitat, enable us to install more nest boxes and train more volunteers to carry out regular dormouse surveys to collect vital data about their health, so please do help if you can.’

‘Every donation, whatever the size, will make a real difference.’

To donate to the Dormouse Appeal, please visit the Somerset Wildlife Trust website at www.somersetwildlife.org/dormo use-appeal or telephone 01823 652429.

MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 2 Bailey Hill Castle Cary BA7 7AD Tel: 01963 351052 Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Personal and professional service

Mentioned

tickets@spectramusica.co.uk or on the door.

Families for Children Somerset Information Session

in

Dispatches What could be better than getting lost in a good book?

Do you or someone you know love reading but find it difficult to get books from the library due to health or mobility issues?

The Home Library Service is there to help: books and talking books are chosen individually for each person and delivered every three weeks from your local library by Royal Voluntary Service volunteers. This service is free, and provides you not only with a regular delivery of books but also a visit by a trusted volunteer who you get to know over time. All the volunteers are DBS checked and carry ID badges.

Interested? Please contact Royal Voluntary Service in Dorset by phoning 01305 236666 or emailing: dorsethomelibrary service@royalvoluntaryservice .org.uk. You can also contact your library directly.

Spectra Musica in Wincanton

‘Colours of Spring’ is full of beautiful music from the 18th to the 21st centuries. We will take you from Russian churches to Abbey Road with great variety in between including, Begin the Beguine, Swonderful and Tea for Two! Two of the early pieces were written by Maria Rosa Coccia at the age of fifteen as a test in writing strict counterpoint, such talent! Other pieces to enjoy are

by Morten Lauridsen, James MacMillan and Giovanni Paisiello.

The evening will be led by our talented Musical Director, Peter Leech and concert pianist Anita D'Attellis will feature throughout.

Join us on Saturday 21st March at the Church of St Luke and St Teresa in Wincanton at 7.30pm. Tickets, priced £12, are available from 01963 31607, from

Are you considering adoption but not sure where to start? Families for Children is holding an information session on 21st March to give you the opportunity to find out more.

Whether you are in a relationship, single, mixed race, LGBTQ+ we would love to speak to you! So come along and talk to our friendly team at this information session to find out more. Visit our website www.familiesforchildren.org.uk or call us for more information 01278 227027.’ 21st March 2020 at Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Horton Cross, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 9PT.

Surviving Winter appeal will help record number of local older people in Somerset

Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) is delighted to announce that the 2019/20 Surviving Winter appeal has raised a record-breaking £110,000, thanks to the generosity of local donors.

The team at SCF have been distributing funding across the county, and aim to support more than 500 vulnerable older people with a Surviving Winter grant, helping to keep them warm, safe and well.

The annual appeal encourages pensioners who can afford to, to donate some or all of their Winter

The team at SCF says a big thank you to everyone who donated to this year’s Surviving Winter appeal.

Fuel Payment. These donations provide funding and support to our older neighbours across Somerset who are struggling to heat their homes.

Since Surviving Winter first launched in Somerset in 2010, the appeal has raised an astounding £800,000 in total for the county. SCF’s Development Director, Laura Blake, thanked local people for rallying behind the appeal: ‘We have been absolutely blown away by the

support we’ve received for this year’s Surviving Winter appeal.

We’re hugely grateful to each and every person who has donated and particularly those who donate year after year. Without your support, we know lots of older people in Somerset would be suffering in silence during the cold winter months.’

SCF would also like to thank TelePA who offered their services free-of-charge to the charitable campaign this year.

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Golden Charter Brochure available on request Clive Wakely Dip F.D. M.B.I.E. The Old Police Station, Carrington Way WINCANTON BA9 9JS Tel: 01963 31310 THE VISITOR March 2020 9

Mentioned in

Dispatches

After an absence of over 10 years, Grandma’s Attic Antique & Collectors Fairs make a welcome return to Salisbury on Sunday 1st March.

St. JOHNS’ HOUSE

Residential Home, Sherborne, Dorset St Johns’ is a beautiful house in the centre of an historical town, for persons above pension age to live.

All of our rooms are ensuite and unfurnished.

A monthly contribution is payable to include all meals, housekeeping and laundry. We are not a care or nursing home, but promote independent living for all residents who are in good health with good mobility. Residents from all areas accepted.

You are welcome to visit to have a look around or to have a short stay in our Guest Room, just give us a call.

 Please contact: 01935 813245 or email: assistantmanagers@hotmail.co.uk We currently have availability

10 THE VISITOR March 2020

The telephone answering service, based in Westbury-subMendip, near Wells, took dozens of calls from Somerset residents wishing to donate to the Surviving Winter 2019/20 appeal.

For information on how to apply for a Surviving Winter grant, please contact either Community Council for Somerset on 01823 331222 or visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter To donate some or all of your Winter Fuel Payment, or to make a donation of any size to the Surviving Winter appeal, please visit www.somersetcf .org.uk/winter to donate online, send a cheque made payable to Somerset Community Foundation (writing SW on the reverse), Yeoman House, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN, or call 01749 344949.

Donation and Gift Aid forms are available to download on the SCF website.

Grandma’s Attic Fairs return to Wiltshire

After an absence of over 10 years, Grandma’s Attic Antique & Collectors Fairs make a welcome return to Salisbury.

They are launching a new fair at the Five River’s Leisure Centre on Sunday 1st March.

Grandma’s Attic Fairs have now been trading for well over 20 years and running quality fairs across Dorset, Hampshire, West Sussex and now Wiltshire.

Visitors will be able to browse over 100 stalls packed full of Antiques & Collectables ranging from Art Deco to quality pottery & porcelain, and Mid Century furniture to vintage clothes & records.

Opening times are from 10am4pm with admission £2 per person, or if you are a keen buyer you can get early entry at 9am for £3.00.

Free parking is available at the centre and refreshments are available.

For further information please ring 01202 779564 or check out their website www.grand masatticfairs.co.uk.

Wookey Hole’s Wild Wookey awarded ‘GOLD’ at South West England Tourism Excellence Awards

Somerset’s oldest and biggest attraction is proud to announce it has been awarded GOLD for its Wild Wookey caving experience, in the Active and Sporting Experience category in this year’s South West England Tourism Excellence Awards. The award ceremony took place on 6 February, amidst a stunning light show in Exeter Cathedral.

Recognised for providing truly memorable and immersive active and sporting activities for visitors to participate in, Wild Wookey was awarded this year’s Active and Sporting Experience Award.

Wild Wookey fought off tough competition including that of Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre in Bruton and Go Skydive in Wiltshire.

ImageWild Wookey is loved for its adrenaline-fuelled, highoctane, exhilarating adventure caving experience in the largest and most spectacular cave complex in the UK. Venturing into the darkest recesses of Wookey Hole’s world-famous caves and guided by highly experienced instructors, Wild Wookey has adventurers immersed in a secret subterranean universe.

Daniel Medley, Managing Director at Wookey Hole, comments on the award win, saying, ‘We are thrilled to win yet another award for Wookey Hole! The Wild Wookey experience is like no other and popular among those that want to try something a little different.’

To learn more about the Awards and see the full list of winners, please click: www.southwesttourismawards .org.uk.

For more information about Wookey Hole visit www. wookey.co.uk.

MARTOCK

March Notice Board HENSTRIDGE

A new social singing group is starting in Bruton and there is taster sessions on Tuesday 3rd March and Tuesday 7th April.

New Golden Oldies singing group starting in Bruton

A new social singing group called Golden Oldies is starting in Bruton and there is taster sessions on Tuesday 3rd March and Tuesday 7th April in Bruton Community Hall, Silver Street, Bruton BA10 0EB from 1011.30am.

Goldies is not a choir but a fun social group where people sing along to backing tracks from popular hits from the 1950’s onwards. There are hundreds of songs to choose from in the Goldies song books, from Sir Cliff Richard (Goldies Patron), Tom Jones, Petula Clark, the Three Degrees and many more.

Although the groups are aimed at people aged over 60, they are in fact, open to people of all ages.

The group asks for a donation of £2 to attend, and Carers go free!

We will be singing for an hour, then half an hour for a cup of tea and chatting to new friends.

We know that being part of a wider group and singing is great for our social life and it makes us happier and healthier. These singing groups are great for people who are feeling a bit isolated and for those having difficulty with their memory – it’s incredible how our brain remembers tunes and lyrics from songs from many years ago!

For more information, please do not hesitate to call 07508054866 or the Golden Oldies office on 01761 470006 or visit their website www.goldenoldies.org.uk.

Snowdrops are out now and soon bluebells & daffodils, so go and visit somewhere like the NT Stourhead House Gardens. How about other woods to see bluebells and wildlife. Look on the Woodlands Trust website for a wood near you!

How about a good walk out in the countryside or the down at the coast, lovely on a sunny day.

Find a nice pub and have lunch out. How about visiting a local market, flea market or an antiques fair - lots of hidden treasures may be found! Attend a sporting event like horse racing - maybe not Cheltenham, but a local race meet such as Taunton or Wincanton. Why not try other sporting events like rugby or motorsport?

Just Somerset Introductions put on social events for their members like going to National Trust houses and gardens plus pub lunches. There is usually something on each week throughout the group. It’s a fun relaxed way to meet other members and you don’t know who you might meet!

For further information about Just Somerset Introductions please look at our website www.justintroductionsgroup .co.uk or call 07584 250285.

BLACKMORE VALE U3A, Dorset Diggers Community Archaeological Group talk about their work around Dorset.

Henstridge Village Hall, Tuesday 3rd March, 2.15pm for 3pm.

Members £1.50, Visitors £2.50, refreshments included.

THE OLD MALT HOUSE Jazz Band - 12th March 2020. The band is a Swing and Jazz collective playing a range of music from the 20s and 30s with their own particular take on popular melodies of that time. Martock Church, Church Street, Martock TA12 6JL. 19:30 hrs, £10 or £9 at Martock Gallery/Newsagent or 01935 829576.

ADVERTISE YOUR APRIL event here from just £5 for 20 words!

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

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

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 26  1) Name the band behind 'I Don't Like Monday's' (Clue: 1979) 2) 'Last Road out of Eden' a 2007 double album from which country rock band?

3) Whose 1991 debut single can definitely be said to have been ‘Outstanding’ 4) 'If I Fell' came from which Beatles album? (Clue: It was also in a Beatles film) 5) 'Too much, too little, too late' was a 1978 hit by which male / female duo?

6) In March 2010, 'Owl City' had a hit with which song?

7) 'Fill Me In' was a debut and no. 1 from which solo artist?

8) Name the song that starts - 'Let us be lovers, we'll marry our fortunes together' 9) 'Five Star' were a band of siblings. What was their surname?

10) James Bay said 'Hold Back the … what?'

Bonus anorak Question: Who is the female with David Bowie on the album cover of 'Pinups'?

Great Quotes in Music (118) 'I write much better when I'm heartbroken and sad or melancholy' – Stephen Bishop

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 January Sudoku on page 32.

Dating tips for Spring from Just Somerset Introductions

Lets hope the cold and stormy weather is now a thing of the past and we can look forward to some fine spring days. What better time is there to get out and meet someone special?

THE VISITOR March 2020 11

Spring Home Improvements Turner Windows Somerton celebrating 10 years!

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.

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Chris 07976620350 Steve 07736648375 Please call for any advice 12 THE VISITOR March 2020

Sherborne Kitchens is run by Malcolm and Catherine Helyar.

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.

Sherborne Kitchens

Sherborne Kitchens is run by Malcolm and Catherine Helyar.

Malcolm, a carpenter by trade worked independently from home with the goal of opening a showroom. He was approached

by Masterclass Kitchens who were looking for retailers to promote their luxury brand kitchens which are designed and built in Wales. The idea very much appealed to him and Sherborne Kitchens opened its doors in 2006.

They continue to promote Masterclass Kitchens and the business has gone from strength to strength.

Malcolm will manage your project be it a new kitchen, internal house renovations or house maintenance. Their aim is to provide high quality kitchens at an affordable price. They are able to organise plumbing,

electrics, tiling, plastering and all aspects of carpentry.

In April 2018 Catherine joined the business. Her extensive administrative experience ensures an excellent level of customer service is achieved.

Customer feedback is excellent and the majority of their work is generated through recommendations.

‘Once again, a huge thank you from all of us for our fantastic new kitchen, dining room and den. You made a daunting project seem much easier than it probably was and disruption was much less than we thought it would be. Your supporting team were brilliant and we’ll have no hesitation in recommending your services in the future’. Said a recent customer from Tintinhull (January 2020).

The Sherborne Kitchens showroom is at The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, DT9 3LN. Why not pay them a visit to discuss your new kitchen or house renovation project.

Alternatively give Malcolm or Catherine a call on 01935 817111.

They would be happy to offer you a free no obligation quotation.

Spring Home Improvements Needful Things, Castle Cary

Needful Things have moved their curtain-making back into No.7 High Street, bringing everything back under one roof!

‘We reached the end of our lease across the road and our Landlady has decided to sell that shop, so we have re-laid the entire store to make room for curtainmaking, which is now a very large part of our business’, explains owners John & Ally Lawrence.

Pop in to see their new layout

which has made sure they have space enough for their unusual and tempting gifts and fabulous ladies clothing too. ‘We are very pleased with the result, which will also provide us with plenty of room for our renowned Christmas displays at the end of the year’, confirms John.

New lines are now arriving as Spring approaches. New clothing from Pomodoro and Foil, new gifts from Culinary Concepts and Somerset Toiletries and soon to

New layout in store at Needful Things, Castle Cary.

arrive are stunning new pictures, bronzes and lamps. It's business as usual then, for this much loved

store. With the whole team back together … that's sure to mean a lot of fun too!

With new lines now arriving as Spring approaches, why not pop in to see what you might find!

THE VISITOR March 2020 13

Spring Home Improvements Take Care Spring is in the air!

WITH THE clocks going forward on 29th March, the lighter evenings prompt us to take a good look at our homes, to see what maintenance is needed or what improvements can be made. With this increase in activity accidents can happen.

The latest research by tradesperson comparison site, HaMuch.com, has found that the skilled trade occupations account for the highest rate of non-fatal injuries as a percentage of all injuries sustained since 2016 so with Spring approaching, leading to more of us attempting DIY jobs at home, they’ve provided a few basic tips to help avoid any unexpected accidents.

HaMuch.com analysed Gov.uk data and also found that skilled trades professionals were also most at risk of musculoskeletal disorders such as Carpal Tunnel, Tendonitis and muscle and ligament strain. The data does provide one silver lining however, skilled trade

professionals are one of the least likely to suffer from stress, depression and anxiety caused by work.

Tree surgeons top the table as the most dangerous trade, with heights clearly a factor as tilers and scaffolders also rank in the top three most dangerous trades.

Plumbers and bricklayers were the least likely to be injured while at work, with electricians also ranking surprisingly low.

Know what you’re doing

This should always be the starting point but more often than not we go wading in thinking we know what we’re doing. This might be a harmless, albeit time-consuming approach to an Ikea flatpack, but when you’re talking about the more tasking DIY jobs it can be costly.

Always read the manual on proper use and if you’re undertaking a job for the first time, always do your research online first to get a comprehensive understanding of the potential dangers involved.

Dreaming of a new bathroom this spring?

From country cottage to modern contemporary - individually designed quality bathrooms and wetrooms expertly installed by Simply Bathrooms and Bedrooms of Sherborne.

The majority of accidents with power tools, in particular, happen when improper use causes a lack of control. Often down to holding them incorrectly, our hands slipping into the blade or drill piece, or the tool falling from our grip and causing injury to other areas of the body.

Always make sure you have a firm grasp in the right areas and don’t try any unconventional manoeuvres even if you feel comfortable using the tool itself.

Check the power

This is a major one when it comes to injury through electrocution as well as the use of power tools.

Undertaking electrical work should always be done by a professional but one of the major causes of injury both in the professional workspace and the home is starting work without turning the power off first.

This also goes for power tools such as drills, saws and garden tools. When you’ve finished using them turn the power off either

Simply Inspirational ...

Quality bathrooms & wetrooms individually designed and expertly installed

Visit our Showroom

Simply Bathrooms & Bedrooms

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

Tel: 01935 817111 * www.simplybathandbed.co.uk * info@simplybathandbed.co.uk 14 THE VISITOR March 2020

Spring Home Improvements at the plug or on the tool itself if it’s cordless. This avoids any injury from accidentally activating the tool while you aren’t in proper control.

Concentrate and clear the area

Tradespeople carry out their work in a professional capacity and even then accidents happen.

At home having the kids around, the football on the TV or music on the radio can distract you from the work at hand and just a few seconds of lapsed concentration can result in injury.

If you have a big job that requires the use of dangerous tools or materials, clear the house from kids and other distractions and then clear your work area from any trip hazards and obstructions.

Protect yourself

Protective gear is used in the trades for a reason and while it may be hot, uncomfortable or make you feel a bit stupid, opting to go without can increase the level of injury sustained during an accident.

At the very least, pick up protection for your eyes, a sturdy pair of gloves to protect from injury from tools or hazardous substances, and if you’re lifting heavy objects invest in a pair of steel toe cap boots.

HaMuch.com.

Twig’s Woodworking

Twig’s Woodworking is a local joinery company based in the

Somerset village of Babcary.

With over 30 years’ experience their joiners are as passionate about your projects as you are.

Making sure they consistently deliver good quality workmanship, putting bespoke craftmanship at the heart of everything they do.

They enjoy working direct with customers, builders or architects alike on listed, restoration and new buildings.

No two projects are the same.

Their skilled joiners are there to bring your vision to life, whether that’s bespoke windows, doors, staircases, vanity units, bookcases or any other bespoke joinery – they’re happy to discuss your project. All their work is manufactured using traditional joinery methods and a variety of timbers, both modern and traditional.

Contact them today for your free estimate on 07590 460789 or drop them an email at info@twigswoodworking.co.uk.

Find them on Facebook @twigswoodworking or online at twigswoodworking.co.uk.

Eternal Kitchens: Rustic Town House

Charming, eclectic and welcoming - the latest kitchen installed in an old bakery by Eternal Kitchens.

characterful, yet practical they specified a beautiful ceramic tile in a dark oak finish. The tiles are large and wide and give the effect of beautiful old boards.

Calming minimalist units without any door detailing created a sleek and contemporary feel. Soft pale colours make the space feel light and open allowing a blank canvas back drop for the owner’s art collection.

Taking their clients love for strong colour a large centre island, the beautiful Aga and Zellige tiles work beautifully together adding a strong feature,

making this eclectic kitchen come to life. The butchers block feature on the end of the island was sourced from an antique dealer and the custom-made base creates a practical storage solution for the foil and knife block making the island an ideal preparation area.

Open units break up the back of the island offering ample storage for all handmade crockery and cook books of a real chef’s kitchen. For more information visit www. eternalkitchens.co.uk or telephone 01460 241261.

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

 01460 241261 | www.eternalkitchens.co.uk

Charming, eclectic and welcoming - the latest kitchen installed by Eternal Kitchens had to meet the modern-day lifestyle of a busy professional yet have the charm and sophistication required for an old bakery.

Starting with changing the floor to something warm and

THE VISITOR March 2020 15

Spring Home Improvements Dreamscape Kitchens: Bringing the Wow Factor to a Home Refurbishment in Frome

Thinking of a new kitchen this spring? Dreamscape Kitchens and Traditional Carpentry can deliver that wow factor.

S FR UP PEC wi EE TO IA th L an Siem£150 OF y p a 0 FE ur ns wo R: ch ap rth as pl ed ian of kit ce ch s en

Dreamscape’s thoughtful attention to detail delivered the wow factor to a recent home refurbishment project, a listed building that was once a skittle alley. Mr and Mrs Kewell wanted to invest in a kitchen that would be long lasting. Nick of Dreamscape Kitchens worked closely with the Kewells to incorporate all of their individual requirements, and the final product is a beautiful, handmade, bespoke kitchen that has everything the Kewells wanted.

www.dreamscapekitchens.com Dreamscape Kitchens, Unit 5, Lydford Business Park East Lydford, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 7HA 01963 240000 Serving up memories since 2004

Bespoke Kitchens • Libraries • Studies • Bedrooms • Architectural Joinery

‘Nick is a craftsman with an impressive attention to detail. He not only understood our requirements, he also took it a step further with attention to the small details that helped to complete our home. The quality of his work and his thoughtful care and attention have taken our home to another level. Now it really has the wow factor’ explained Mrs Kewell. For more information about Dreamscapre Kitchens visit www.dreamscape kitchens.com.

Somerton Windows

Established in 1991, Somerton Windows Ltd is a family run business that prides itself on providing a professional and caring service.

They provide all things glass from picture glass, to orangeries and everything in between, including windows, doors, conservatories, balustrading, double glazing and wood burner stove glass. UPVC and aluminium options are available as well as warm roofs. If you have any projects involving glass in any guise, Somerton Windows will be pleased to discuss these and offer competitive quotations which are both free of charge and obligation.

All members of staff are highly qualified, trustworthy and obliging. You can visit their office at 1 Wessex Buildings, Somerton Business Park, Somerton TA11 6SB. Telephone 01458 273779, Email enquiries@somerton windows.com or visit www.somertonwindows.co.uk They look forward to hearing from you.

Will’s Walls

Will's Walls is a Somerset based business with a passion for quality creative stonework.

16 THE VISITOR March 2020

Spring Home Improvements If you've got a broken wall that requires fixing, a garden that needs enhancing or a building you want to transform call Will on 07484 339702 or email him at bwana_will@hotmail.com to arrange a free, accurate and no obligation quote. Friendly, professional service with competitive rates.

Will’s Walls offer drystone and mortared wall construction and repairs, steps, paving and cladding.

The New DuraOcean® Chair is made from 100% Recycled Marine Debris

Not everyone would like the idea of fishing nets, ropes and plastic waste lying in their gardens, and we certainly don’t like it in the sea either. But what if instead these unwanted products could be cleaned and transformed into a beautiful and functional chair?

The new DuraOcean® chair made from 100% recycled marine debris is a unique new piece of garden furniture that does exactly that.

The issue of ocean plastics is one of the defining environmental challenges of our age. Safely taking plastic waste from the ocean and transforming it into something we can all use has

been a long-term goal for LifestyleGarden® and its parent company ScanCom. This is why, high street retailer, Robert Dyas is honoured to deliver this ethically made and innovative chair to market, thereby helping to make a difference to our oceans.

LifestyleGarden® has partnered with the Eden Project in Cornwall to tell the tale of the chair’s remarkable journey from ocean debris, transformed into an innovative sustainable product.

The DuraOcean® chair and its table counterpart offer the chance to fight back against environmental damage and the negative impact the human population is currently having on the ocean.

The DuraOcean® range from Robert Dyas includes a two-seater bistro set (£299.99), two boxed DuraOcean® chairs (£179.99) for those who just want the chairs, or the four-seater bistro set (£499.99). Each chair is unique, and the shade of green will vary depending on the blend of hues of the ocean waste used in production.

To put the situation into perspective, each year humans produces 300 million tonnes of plastic waste – that’s nearly the same weight as the entire world population. Worse still, predictions show that unless something is done to reduce this, we will have created four times as much plastic waste by 2050.

The implications of vast amounts of plastic in our oceans are all too familiar. Loss of marine life, unclean waters and contaminated food products are just a handful of issues resulting from plastic pollution.

The new DuraOcean® Chair is made from 100% recycled marine debris.

SJH Carpets, Wincanton

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, Bill Beaumont 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 for domestic and commercial projects including naturals, vinyls, woods, laminate and luxury vinyl tiles (including Karndean, Moduleo and Harvey

blinds

... by

Control light and privacy with ease A wide choice of designs to suit your needs • Bespoke Curtain & Blind Service • Poles and Tracks

With over 30 years of building experience — NO HIDDEN EXTRAS —

All works completed by our experienced and reliable team

Powerview Motorisation Remote Control

(01935) 808456

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

MADE TO MEASURE FULL INSTALLATION SERVICE

Visit our showroom and discuss your requirements with our experienced staff Tythings Commercial Centre, Southgate Road, Wincanton BA9 9RZ  01963 824418 wincanton@sjhcarpets.co.uk www.sjhcarpets.co.uk

All aspects of Building and Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken

Contact us for a free estimate

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.

Stylish and versatile shutters &

FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION

SERVICES INCLUDE but not limited to: Project Management ★ New Build Planning ★ Loft Conversions Carpentry ★ Roofing Ground Works ★ Refurbishment Renovation ★ Commercial Property Maintenance ★ Joinery

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 suits your needs.

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

Customer satisfaction means

Wincanton

Also at: High Street, Tisbury  01747 871178 North Street, Langport  01458 887301

THE VISITOR March 2020 17

Family Health with Jenna Evans Family Health Herbal

THIS MONTH we take a look at the next four herbs in our series – Marshmallow Root, Motherwort, Mullein and Nettles.

Marshmallow Root (Althea officinalis) The roots of this plant possess demulcent, diuretic, emollient and vulnerary properties. With a high mucilage content, Marshmallow root is excellent for soothing irritation and inflammation in the digestive system, urinary tract, lungs and skin. Internally it may be used to treat ulcers, colitis, coughs, respiratory catarrh, bronchitis, urethritis and urinary gravel.

Externally, abscesses, ulcers, boils and varicose veins may benefit from its use. Consider Marshmallow when looking to soothe any irritation of the mucus membranes.

Use 1tsp of the dried root, boiled gently for 10-15 minutes in a mugful of water. Strain and drink 3 times a day. Can be made into a compress for external use.

Combine with slippery elm to ease digestive inflammation or Liquorice and Mullein for chesty complaints.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) The dried aerial parts of this herb have antispasmodic, cardiac

tonic, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, mild hypotensive, sedative and gentle uterine stimulant abilities.

Unsurprisingly, Motherwort is traditionally used as a female tonic.

Useful for triggering delayed menstruation (and therefore not to be used during pregnancy), easing labour pains, helping tone the uterus and prevent bleeding postpartum as well as calming anxiety in new mums. The word ‘cardiaca’ in this plant’s botanical classification, points to its other major area of use – as a heart tonic. Motherwort can be especially helpful where there are palpitations, rapid heartbeat, nervous tension and anxiety.

If these are coupled with cardiac issues or during the menopause, Motherwort should be considered. Use 1-2 teaspoons of the dried herb per mug of hot water. Infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink 3 times a day. Try blending with red clover for menopause support and sage if there are hot flushes. For calming the nerves skullcap and Vervain are good choices. To ease agitation before bed Passiflora can be used. High blood pressure may be helped by a Motherwort and Hibiscus blend.

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) The dried aerial parts of this plant possess demulcent, mild diuretic, expectorant, mild sedative and vulnerary properties. Much like Marshmallow, Mullein is wonderfully soothing to the respiratory system. It can help tone, calm inflammation and stimulate fluid production, promoting expectoration.

Considered a specific for dry, hoarse conditions and bronchitis with a hard, sore cough.

Extracts of Mullein infused in olive oil may comfort any inflamed surface and used to be particularly popular when used as ear drops for infection and irritation. 1-2 teaspoons of the dried herb per mug of hot water.

Infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink 3 times a day. May be combined with Liquorice and Marshmallow for chestiness.

Nettles (Urtica dioica) The dried aerial parts of this herb have anti-allergy, astringent, diuretic, haemostatic and nutritive tonic abilities. Nettles are one of my favourite herbal remedies. Rich in minerals, iron and vitamin C they make a useful tonic in times of debility and may be of particular help to those struggling with anaemia.

Supportive of kidney and urinary function, nettles help clear uric acid from the body – helping treat gout. As a ‘blood cleanser’, chronic skin conditions such as eczema can benefit. Infusions are popular as hair rinses to strengthen the scalp and treat dandruff.

Nettles can stimulate milk flow in nursing mothers. I often recommend hayfever sufferers drink plenty of nettle tea throughout their allergy season.

As an astringent and haemostatic, Nettle can be helpful where there is excess bleeding such as internal haemorrhage, or as a snuff for nose bleeds (make sure you seek medical help in these kinds of situations!).

Use 1-3 teaspoons to a mug of hot water, infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink 3 times a day.

For a general cleanse Nettle may combine well with Burdock and, for urinary soothing, Cornsilk.

That’s all for this month, see you next time for more herbal helpers!  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.

18 THE VISITOR March 2020

The rise of the Soberista; why more of us are giving up booze

When you’re out socially, if someone mentions they don’t drink alcohol, often that revelation is met with raised eyebrows and a fairly muted response. Is the non-drinker ill, on medication, pregnant, Alcoholic?

Some probe further, an unlikely combination of admiration and distain fuelling their questioning.

But how can someone have that much restraint? How do they navigate their way through life without the help of the soothing, liquid comfort that is so deliciously relaxing. How do they manage without a crutch to numb the daily grind. Do they go to parties ... have fun?

When you take a step back, it seems odd that society may (or may not) hold this view of nondrinkers, more often than not labelled as the odd ones out amongst us, even weird. But actually, an increasing number of people - in every age bracket- are making the decision to give up alcohol all together.

In some cases, it’s a poignant life choice made after hitting a painful rock-bottom. The spiral of out of control drinking that is so often followed by the devastating loss of family, job or home.

However, some of us just choose not to. Clarity of thought goes hand in hand with a clear head and early mornings absent of a hangover now become a blessing.

Decision making is no longer skewed by over-confidence and the recklessness alcohol can bring.

Free floating anxiety dissipates as worries about what we did the night before are a thing of the past.

Massive improvements in our general health and wellbeing mean we can exercise more regularly and, well, enjoyably as the objective is no longer to sweat out excess alcohol after a night of heavy drinking.

It goes without saying responsible drinking can be enjoyable and beneficial for some.

Indeed, studies have reported that a small glass of red wine is indicated in improvements to heart health. However, those benefits are rapidly negated when the amount of alcohol consumed exceeds a very low threshold. And there are various confounding factors with that research to consider.

Shirley Allum Fashions and Lingerie, Shaftesbury

The new season’s Spring fashions are arriving daily.

Brax jeans are now in with a wonderful colour palette. Crops, ideal for Spring days and holidays are also arriving.

Robell, Anna Montana and NYDJ are just a few of the

designers that make up the amazing choice of over 2500 pairs of jeans and trousers in stock, in sizes 4 - 28.

Designs from Frank Lyman in lime and black and Doris Streich in emerald and black put a zing into Spring in sizes 16 - 26.

When it comes to lingerie, did you know that 8 out of 10 women

Brax feel good jeans & the new range of Triumph bras range are now in stock at Shirley Allum of Shaftesbury.

are in the wrong bra size? Take advantage of their free fitting service in store by their awardwinning fitters. The new Triumph range is now in stock and on Tuesday 17th March they will be launching the new Triumph ‘Fit Smart’ Design For

Life range. The local Triumph representative will be in store to advise and answer any questions you may have.

So do pop in to Shirley Allum’s to view the Spring transition they look forward to assisting you.

Make sure your rings are sparkling clean! Take advantage of the March promotion at Ward & Sibley family jewellers, Middle Street, Yeovil.

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil

Our repair section of the business is pleased to offer

MARCH PROMOTION FREE clean & setting check on gemstone rings (ends 31/ 03/2020)  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 THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop THE VISITOR March 2020 19

Mothering Sunday Handmade Craft & Gift Shop, Wincanton

TUCKED AWAY at the top of Wincanton High Street, you’ll find the superb Handmade Craft & Gift Shop, where Rachel and Claire greet you with a smile and warm welcome. The shop houses a wonderful range of beautifully

crafted gifts for all ages, so plenty of choice to find the most perfect and unique present this Mother’s Day. From hand sewn children’s summer outfits in the prettiest of fabrics to stunning and original jewellery, gifts have been hand made with love by local artisan

crafters. Without doubt, The Handmade Craft & Gift shop is Wincanton’s Aladdin’s cave of treasure, not to be missed.

Soon to be expanding their eco range of products, the shop also stocks handy art & craft supplies.

If you fancy having a go yourself at creating something special, from next month they will be running Adult Craft Workshops.

First in the series of Workshops is an introduction to Quilling.

More information can be found on the Website and Facebook page, including dates. Find them at the top of the high street, opposite the turning for the Memorial Hall Car Park.

Lillies Rose, Wincanton

A wide range of hand-made gifts can be found at The Handmade Craft & Gift Shop, Wincanton.

The Handmade Craft & Gift Box Beautiful hand made Crafts & Gifts 59 High Street, Wincanton, BA9 9JZ Opposite the Memorial Hall Car Park Entrance

www.thehandmadecraftandgiftbox.co.uk ● Tel: 07713 459483 Find us on Facebook!

‘As I write it’s a grey, wet afternoon. Reflecting back on the last few days in the shop, we've had Valentine's and my, wasn’t that an abundance of red roses and blooms of all shapes, sizes and colours, leaving the shop almost as fast as they arrived! Such a busy time, for which I am very grateful and feel so supported by the community.’

‘A year of trading here is fast approaching but first there is the big one - Mothering Sunday, March 22nd. Yes, a few weeks away yet but it will soon be here!’ says Gemma, owner, Lillies Rose.

Pop in to Lillies Rose to have a browse or give them a call on 01963 34992 to place an order.

Lillies Rose will have floral arrangements, bouquets, baskets, plants and planted arrangements of all sizes and for all budgets to show that special lady in your life how much you care and give thanks for all she does.

They now offer gift vouchers at a minimum £5 value and a subscription service where you can order flowers or plants for recurring delivery. And of course their monthly raffle is still running to reward loyal customers. It's a good idea to pre-order your flowers and gifts so just pop in, give them a call or drop them an email to discuss your requirements.

Delivery is available and is free within five miles of the shop, they'll be delivering on Mother’s day itself too!

Lillies Rose ● Now taking orders for Mothering Sunday ● Bouquets, Baskets, Floral Arrangements, Plants and Gifts ● Fully Qualified Florist ● Fresh Flowers for all occasions ● Delivery available - including same day - Free delivery within 5 miles of the shop ● Eflorist Service available ● Gift Vouchers and Gift Subscription available

1 High Street, Wincanton, BA9 9JN lilliesRose1@outlook.com www.lilliesrose.co.uk Tel: 01963 34992 Find us on Facebook & Instagram 20 THE VISITOR March 2020

Beautiful Cards from Wild Cardz, Wincanton

Wild Cardz have an excellent choice of cards for every occasion.

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, why not drop into the store in Wincanton and pick up something special in time for Mothering Sunday?

There are plenty of gift ideas too including a lovely selection of cuddly toys, including the new Blue Nose Friends range of collectables.

Wild Cardz are now pleased to offer a quality card range from just 99p. For those who like to make their own cards there is a wide choice of craft card, ‘pick n mix’ your own selection. Fill a small box for £3.49 or large box for £6.99.

They are now also a UPS collection/delivery point for parcels. Wild Cardz have balloons for all occasions – including wedding day arrangements. Visit their website at www.wildcardz wincanton.com.

few. Cale Park Kitchen also has its own ice cream counter offering a plethora of flavours to tempt you.

Incredibly family friendly, highchairs are readily available and there’s a little play area with games to boot. A great place for grown ups to relax too; somehow CPK manages to have the cool café vibe you tend to see more in funky London spots.

But the fun doesn’t end here.

An imaginary play area upstairs, delightfully called Mini Town, is oodles of enjoyment for children aged up to around 8 years.

Children can dress up and experience a variety of job roles from police person to boutique owner to vet. With a handy seating area in the middle, grown ups can have a relaxed catch up while supervising their children play.

Floristic, Wincanton

Coming from an exciting and busy career stage managing some of the biggest productions in the West End, Laura Williams, owner of Floristic, has got a wealth of experience and talent when it comes to multitasking. However, Laura’s skills don’t end with rapid scene changes and strategic prop placement.

Since returning from London to her roots in Wincanton, Laura’s diverse floristry skills led to her winning a bronze medal at RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2018 and to being awarded 1st place in an Institute of Professional Florists

competition, amongst other awards and achievements.

Residing in Wincanton High Street, Floristic is an artful and welcoming environment; it really does feel like an oasis of beautiful floral life upon entering. From Roses to Alstroemeria, the range is pulchritudinous and plush.

Community focused, Laura offers a warm and friendly welcome and loves creating the ideal floral arrangement to suit your requirements. A brilliant place to pop in this Mother’s Day to give your mum the perfect floral treat.

The shop also stocks exquisitely crafted handmade pots and gifts.

Cale Park Kitchen, Wincanton

Located in Cale Park, just across the grass from the children’s playground, Cale Park Kitchen is the perfect place for you to stop by for some delicious refreshments. Since October last year, new owners Rachel and Shaun have been enthusiastically at the helm. Together with manager Jamie-Lee, the lovely team offer a wonderfully friendly and warm welcome.

The menu offers inviting breakfasts and tasty lunches such as paninis and children’s bento boxes, which can be topped off with some delicious cakes: irresistible rolo chocolate cake, glorious cupcakes or the new vegan chocolate treat to name a

Play sessions are 90 mins and run at different times throughout the day, every day of the week and you can book a space easily online.

It’s the perfect place for parent meet ups but you’d feel perfectly comfortable going along with your little ones on your own and they also offer a discounted rate for childminders.

On Tuesday Mornings, next to the café, you’ll find Mini Bakers which is a lovely baking club designed for pre-schoolers; a fantastic way to get little ones engrossed in baking and all set for the Great British Bake Off! And to keep the bigger ones entertained, you’ll find energetic discos, and seasonal events running throughout the year.

Why not treat a special mum this Mother’s Day to a delectable Afternoon Tea, with the option of a supervised Mini Town Play Session!

Laura Williams, owner of Floristic in Wincanton.

Mother’s Day Sunday 22nd March VISIT US for a SUPERB CHOICE of CARDS “Mummy” – “Mum” – “Wife” – “Nan” – etc. ★ Special MOTHER’S DAY Mugs, Key Rings, Pens ★ Blue Nose range of Teddy Bears & Gifts St. PATRICK’S DAY Cards & EASTER Cards now in stock Visit Google + ... and have a virtual tour of our shop!

UPS drop

off / collection point

Wild Cardz

35 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU • Tel: 01963 31234 THE VISITOR March 2020 21

Collectors get cracking on 350 lots of ceramics

LAWRENCES’ auctions of Decorative Arts and Ceramics will often comprise lots from all around the world spanning many centuries. The Crewkerne saleroom’s Winter auction commenced with Decorative Arts.

Highlights included £2750 for a Heal’s limed oak cupboard that combined practicality with striking economy of design; £2620 for a 1929 Lalique car mascot entitled ‘Longchamp’ of a horse’s head in frosted glass; £3620 for a large Theodore Deck vase; and £1560 for a William de Morgan bowl decorated by Frederick Passenger.

From the European ceramics section, a late 18th Century

Worcester basket with cover and stand from the Fountance Collection made £2370; an amusing group of sixteen Meissen and Meissen-style ‘monkey band’ figurines made £2000; and a set of eleven Sevres style coffee cans with twelve saucers made £3000.

From the Oriental and Asian selection, there were strong prices for two sumptuous volumes of

Chinese watercolours comprising flowers, birds, fish, insects and figures that made £4250; a celadon jade mounted silver box from the Harvey-Kelly collection that made £3000; a group of nine jade items, including a near white

jade pendant of a boy upon a fish, that made £4000; four porcelain plaques, possibly Republic period, each 26 x 39cm, that made £4750; and a Chinese bowl, Ming style, that led the section and took £10,600.

A Ming style Chinese bowl sold for £10,600 at the recent Lawrences Auctioneers Winter Auction.

John Hamblin, Bespoke Furniture Maker, restorer and French Polisher

The 1929 Lalique car mascot entitled ‘Longchamp’ of a horse’s head in frosted glass

With a wealth of knowledge and experience spanning five decades, John Hamblin and his team are highly skilled in making and restoring furniture.

Whether building a bespoke solid oak bookcase for an elegant library or french polishing a

beautiful antique table, John Hamblin works with you to offer a professional and impressive service, whilst being outstanding value for money. With John Hamblin, you feel safe in the knowledge your furniture is in the safest of hands.

Located on Penn Mill Trading Estate in Yeovil, there is ample parking and easy access.

SOMERSET COINS COIN & BANKNOTE SPECIALIST

I am keen to buy all coins, banknotes & tokens DAVID AYLING

07799 880312

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

Bespoke Furniture Makers ● Furniture Restorers ● French Polishers

Please call me, or use the ‘contact me’ page on the website

EMAIL: DAVE@DWJAYLING.COM

Fine furniture made to your personal requirements and specifications, including bookcases and libraries, Re-leathering of desktops, bureaux etc.

Dining table tops refinished A family run business established for over 50 years

WWW.SOMERSETCOINS.COM 22 THE VISITOR March 2020

Unit 6, 15 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, YEOVIL, BA21 5HR  01935 471154 • jhamblin101@gmail.com

MOTORING VINTAGE Motorcycling MARCH SHOULD HERALD the start of spring once more and the likelihood of better weather, and that promise of improved conditions reflects the greater proliferation of riding events now and in the coming months.

The Somerset Section start the month with their club night at Cossington on the 5th and this will be a guest speaker. Next on the 14th comes the first of this year's autojumbles at the Shepton Mallet Showground. The next day will be Neil's Run from Nether Stowey. On the 26th will be the Breakfast Meet at Wedmore. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section just have their club night at East Stour on the 9th and this will also be in the form of a talk. The Dorset Section start with their Lunch Meet at Henstridge on the 4th and the club night, also at Henstridge, on the 11th will be a guest speaker. On the 22nd they have the Spring Run from Henstridge and round the month off with the Breakfast Meet on the 28th. As always more information is available by ringing 01935-872528.

Have you prepared your pride and joy for the coming season? A few hours servicing, cleaning and checking everything over now will pay dividends during the coming months. Even experienced people do nothing all winter and then expect their machines to function perfectly

first time out. I am always surprised at how many people do their routine maintenance at the side of the road. Be a Boy Scout and 'be prepared'.

Last month I promised a report on the Bristol Classic Bike Show at Shepton Mallet. Well as usual around 1000 machines were polished up for the occasion.

Thousands of people attended and many splendid and obscure makes were there for inspection.

The standard of restoration is unbelievably high, and in many cases much cleaner and shinier than the manufacturer could manage when the machines were new. It was also satisfying to see quite a few original and unrestored bikes on show, the history and patination there for all to see.

The large autojumble seemed to be doing good business with many large lumps of rusty metal finding new homes in someone else's shed for a while. I hope that elusive missing part was found causing great joy for many punters.

The club stands were superb as usual and I appreciate the many hours spent over previous months making the displays. The Wells Classic Motorcycle Club always excel at this category and this year was no exception. Their depiction of a roadside scene complete with a mobile snack bar and lots of shiny bikes was a delight to see and earned them the Best Club Stand at the show.

These events always seem to attract some rare and exotic bikes, and many specials which clever engineers have assembled

The 1903 Large, made in Manchester.

from a variety of bits or from bits they have manufactured themselves. I always admire the thought and hours of dedication which have gone into the bikes and which may not be of great value when finished. But such machines give such value in terms of pride of ownership and the recognition of a job well done.

My photo this month is of a Large machine. You have probably never heard of such a machine. In 1903 the Large (that was their surname, not a description of their stature) brothers made small quantities of pedal cycles from their premises in Manchester. The brothers heard of a Trial (more of a race really) which was to go from Paris to Madrid. Intrigued at the thought of this event they decided to build their own machine designed especially for the event. They bought a proprietary engine, then built a frame around it with all other fittings needed. They entered the race and set off for Paris.

The roads were unmade and thronged with thousands of spectators. It was such a novelty for the people that they surged

onto the road like the spectators at a 1970/80's rally stage. As a result there were numerous accidents along the way and by the time the entrants had reached a midway stop near the French and Spanish border no less than 8 drivers and onlookers had been killed. As it happened the Large machine had broken down at this first midway stop and could not continue. The mayor of the town used as this midway stop heard of the dreadful carnage and decided to stop the race. He placed all the entrants and vehicles on a train and sent them back to Paris.

Consequently the Large had actually finished the race as far as the event could go so qualified for a finishers award. The machine was brought back to England and kept by the brothers for many years until eventually being sold on. After three or four owners it now resides with a friend of mine down in Cornwall.

The brothers never made another motorcycle and so this is the only one ever made, hence my suspicions that you will have never heard of the maker Large.

Rod Hann.

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

G.H. SALES. Tel: 01935 891414

Yeovil Auto Tuning  

CLASSIC CAR REPAIRS ● Repairs and Servicing Specialists Established OVER ● MOT Testing – Classes IV, V and VII also Motorhomes 30 YEARS ● Engine Tuning ● Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes ● Competitive Rates ● Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service ● Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans ● Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW and Audi Group) ● Caravan Storage  COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE 



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

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

South Street • YEOVIL • BA20 1QQ Tel: 01935 411095 Email: norrisbodyrepairs@gmail.com • Fax: 01935 473119 THE VISITOR March 2020 23

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

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL Call my name right out loud I can here above the clouds And I'm here among the puddles You and I together huddle THE FIRST PERSON to tell me the song above gets a free drink.

Last month no one guessed that it was River Man by Nick Drake Google it and have a listen, it’s a great song ☺ Slowly getting rid of those winter blues and when it eventually stops raining, we should all be able to have some fun.

Last month we had some fun up here at the top of the hill when Jenny Clegg celebrated her 30th.

Lots of nice people, a little bit of music, some nice food and a few drinks made for a super celebration - congratulations Jenny xx.

Earlier in the month we had our Annual Gin Night and this year Darren and Anna really pulled out all the stops raising over £1100 well done you two. All booked in again for next year - don’t miss it!!

Coming up on the 7th March we have a fantastic David Bowie Tribute Show here with Bowie Fashion.

Tickets are available from the pub or on the door but last time we sold out so don’t risk it, get yours now!

On the 13th (Friday) we have a Tina Turner Tribute Show again, tickets are available from the pub for this one - should be a great night.

On the 14th SNAKEBYTE will be playing in the function room with a gig to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK. Tickets are £10 and are available from the pub for this very worthy cause.

By the time you read this I will have been here at the good ship Quicksilver for 18 years (Bloody Hell).

I would like to thank all of you for the help and support over those years and let’s look forward to many years to come ☺ Last thing to tell you about is March 22nd Mothering Sunday, book a table now or Mum won’t be very happy. All the Mums get a free drink on arrival so hope to see you then!

Toot Toot !! ☺

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721 24 THE VISITOR March 2020

The

Pub

Vinny was quite glad when January was over!

Pages

B EE R & S K I T T L ES P. A. BAXTER MARCH ALREADY! Time goes so much quicker as you get older I was always told, and sure enough, as the years advance I too notice how quickly time passes. I recall my late father, who was a little bit of an amateur philosopher, reminding me of those school summer holidays. They lasted forever, right? Of course; back in the day when one is ten years old a year is a tenth of your life. When one is 60 it's a sixtieth, so a smaller fraction must go by quicker.

It's the time of year when we can look forward to the longer evenings and the promise of spring, and the ridiculous 'Dry January' nonsense can be put well behind us. Some of our population may have thought it a good idea. Those who think that they genuinely think that they drink too much normally or those who think self-discipline is a good idea. Whatever!

For myself and contemporaries it has made no difference; a couple or three quality ales on a Friday night at skittles, and possibly a couple more out for a meal on a Saturday night, perhaps even a few interesting

small-brewery beers with a mate at home on a Sunday evening, whilst we view some motor racing on an American channel!

An interesting article I read recently threw accusations at various areas of the media, stating in no uncertain terms that there was a campaign of 'demonising alcohol', and I have no doubt that is what is going on. Remember this is how the anti-smoking campaign started!

Now, I would be first to point out that smoking is bad for you and that I've never smoked, (well; only to give it a try) and that alcoholism is a problem. In fact it always has been and I have no doubt it always will be at some degree. Those of us who can go out for a drink and enjoy it without becoming addicted – in other words, the silent majority – will end up as the 'bogie people' if this trend continues. A contributor to the article also happens to be a pub owner, who adds some very good points. 'We live in an age of judgment with huge rises in depression and anxiety' says

Claire Alexander 'People talking to people on screens is not an actual, real, social connection.

It's no coincidence that the rising suicide rates are in line with High Streets, Pubs, Libraries, community spaces all closing.

Loneliness is the biggest killer of all these days and we should be promoting the benefits of getting out to the pub more than we should be pitching people against each other for what they're drinking'.

Is the teetotal movement still going strong? I don't know the answer to that question, but I do know there is only one 'dry' (i.e. teetotal) left pub in the country.

I do think, however, our right to enjoy a pleasant social drink with friends is not under threat just yet, but beware, the thought police could be prowling around when you least expect them – it's their job!

Having kicked my soap-box to one side for at least a short time I must give a mention to a couple of pubs that I have been following as they move into the realms of the community-based organisations. A relative sent me a link to the 'Cornwood Action Group' at Ivybridge in Devon where it would appear that good progress is being made, and also the Kings Arms at Stockland, Devon (not far from Honiton) which is now up and running.

I was referred to this pub by correspondent Rob Ashford when opening was some way off. That event took place near the end of January and a look at their Facebook site shows that it has become a thriving local. I trust this will continue and to grow.

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SK ITTLE S P. A. BAXTER It first grabbed my attention as Rob had sent me a link from the 1960's where that doyen of reporters Fyfe Robertson had made an appearance to play skittles – on the ten-pin alley!

It's quite a shock for someone with a passion for the game to suddenly happen upon something other than the traditional nine-pine version that we know and love. I believe it is also marked out for nine pins, but our team are hoping to make a visit at the end of the winter season to have a go at the tenpin version.

The village is not far from the war-time airfield of Smeatharpe (now known for the wellestablished short-circuit racing track where yours truly once did a bit of banger racing – but hey, that's another story!) Were there Americans stationed there that influenced the English version for a few years – that became the local standard? Who can say?

Interestingly however, there are other ten-pin alleys in the Colyton and District League. Go to colytonskittles.org.uk for a look at their rules to compare them to those of your particular way of play. Though a basic pub game passions can be aroused as any skittler can testify, and the fact that both nine and ten-pin alleys are in use in the same league caused enough upset to make some peoples' hackles rise, enough for the subject to be broached in the local newspaper on at least one occasion!

Incidentally the footage of Fyfe in action can easily be found on Facebook; so do take a look.

Speaking of re-opening, I am delighted to learn that the West Coker pub ‘Inn The Square’

should be open by the time you read this. This pub has quite a history even in relatively recent times, along with the adjacent pub ‘The Ship’, (the name was removed eons ago) which became the restaurant and accommodation side. I believe this will be so again.

Many patrons will remember when the premises were named 'Skittles' and also the disastrous fire which even made the local news. The alley is most unusual as it is partly in the bar, and partly, not...! During the last summer skittle season we had a most unusual event insofar as it was probably the only skittle game in history where 'rain stopped play'. Next time we meet in a pub I'll tell you about it! I wish the new tenants all the very best of good fortune – get those skittle teams in for guaranteed weekly income. Luckily they do arrive with a lot of experience in the trade.

Touching on the guaranteed trade side, speaking to landlords

and landladies regarding their skittle teams, the last three of my visits to pubs off our usual rounds I can count one pub who had ten regular teams, another with nine, and another with nine plus two crib teams and a darts team. All that trade what will be there come rain, come shine.

However, time passes ever more quickly - and just like a toilet roll it goes faster the closer you get to the end – so get down the pub with some family and friends and enjoy it whilst you still can! Cheers! © P.A. Baxter 2020. skittlealley@hotmail.com

THE VISITOR March 2020 25

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They Say That when it comes to confronting burglars in the wee small hours of the morning, all you need is a pair of jogging bottoms and a cardboard tube, according to Kevan Davis of Castle Cary.

That a new cocktail has been developed in North Cadbury consisting of Southern Comfort, Coca-Cola, ice, Apricot brandy, Kahlua, Cointreau, a dash of tonic water and a squeeze of lime juice, Dave Hoddinott is just waiting to put a suitable name to it.

That wedding anniversary congratulations go to Mr & Mrs John Brunsden of West Coker in March.

That there’s the possibility of a new McDonald’s opening in Wincanton.

That West Camel golfer Pete Dunford is not one to dilly-dally at the 19th hole when delights such as the ‘paso doble’ or the ‘Viennese waltz’ are calling.

That bagette-eating Maurice Maynard of Keinton Mandeville is now known as Maurice ‘Two Baps’ Maynard to his close circle of friends.

That after her recent surgical procedure, Miss Bella Trulock of Chiselborough makes a pretty picture recuperating in her onesie.

That since his daughter’s move to a ‘high-rise’ in Brighton, former jeweller Mr Penn of Shepton Mallet keeps his eyes tight shut whilst ‘allegedly’ enjoying the views from her balcony.

26 THE VISITOR March 2020

AROUND THE

H O U S E S IN MARNHULL, The Blackmore Vale Inn welcomes new skittle teams ... the everchanging selection of real ales is the speciality of the house at The Tippling Philosopher in Milborne Port ... there is free WiFi for customers at The Gainsborough Arms ... the variety of cocktails served at The Clockspire includes the well-known, plus Signature cocktails and a choice of nonalcoholic ... food is served from noon until 5pm on Sundays at Skippers in Sherborne ... the last Wednesday of the month is Charity Quiz Night at The George ... traditional pub meals, reasonably priced are served at The White Hart ... you’ll find comforting pub classics on the menu and daily specials served at The Half Moon Inn ... and The Digby Tap serves food at lunchtime.

Moving on to Yeovil ... we find there are over 20 gins to choose from at The Pen Mill Hotel ... all the pizzas are freshly baked at Coopers Mill ... start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Airfield Tavern ... a Quiz Night for charity at 8pm hosted by The Beatnik Theatre Group, takes place on Sunday 1st March at The Quicksilver Mail where a Sunday Roast is also served from 6pm until 8pm ... weddings and private parties are welcomed at The Halfway House Inn Country Lodge, Chilthorne Domer ... there’s a good choice of local Somerset ciders served at Lanes Hotel, West Coker ... dine in the quaint, atmospheric abbey room at The Montacute Inn, Montacute ... if you’re dining at Little Barwick House, Barwick there’s an interesting and extensive wine list to choose from ... and bookings are now being taken for Mothering Sunday at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock.

Inching our way to Ilchester, you can dress as your favourite character for the Leap Year Party at The Bull Inn on Saturday 29th February (a prize for the best dressed) ... a choice of Afternoon Tea Packages are available at The Ilchester Arms ... and it’s Party Band Night on Friday 13th March at The Cross Keys Inn, Lydford on Fosse with the Midrod Ends.

Raise a paw for South West’s most Dog Friendly pub

On February 6th The Grove Arms in Ludwell, Dorset, set tails wagging as it was given the prestigious accolade of the Most Dog Friendly Pub in the South West - sponsored by Devon-based natural pet food makers Forthglade - at a glittering ceremony held at Exeter Cathedral to mark the finals of the nationally recognised South West Tourism Awards.

The Grove Arms was praised by judges for its top-dog welcome and first-class facilities including a ‘Mutts Menu’ of delectable doggie treats and dedicated pet friendly bedrooms for overnight guests. The pub website also features a host of information for dog-owning visitors including a helpful list of local dog walks for those keen to enjoy the surrounding countryside.

The Grove Arms in Ludwell, Dorset is the South West’s most dog friendly pub.

Upon winning the coveted title of the region’s ‘Most Dog Friendly Pub’, Nina Bartlett, landlord of The Grove Arms and owner of Buddy the Labrador said: ‘It means so much to win the award for the Most Dog Friendly Pub in the South West in its first ever year. Making dogs feel welcome is central to our ethos at The Grove and our resident dog Buddy is very excited about winning such a coveted award.’

‘Our four-legged friends are incredibly dear to our hearts and inspire passion, dedication and loyalty in all of Team Grove. For this I am truly grateful.’

Just missing out on the top spot were The Hazlephron Inn, Cornwall and The Wheatsheaf, Bath, both scooping Silver Awards, with The Cadeleigh Arms, Devon awarded Bronze.

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 11 1. Boomtown Rats 2. The Eagles 3. Kenny Thomas 4. A Hard Days Night 5. Johnny Mathis & Deniece Williams 6. Firefly's 7. Craig David 8. 'America' – Simon and Garfunkel 9. Pearson 10. River Bonus anorak question Twiggy

The Cream of the Crop for Mum

ON MOTHER’S DAY there is nothing quite like a bit of bubbly to get mum in the right mood.

When it comes to sparkling wine, as a Champagne enthusiast I have never been much of a fan of Prosecco, which has reigned supreme for some years now, but it does suit the pockets of those on a budget.

For my money, with limited funds available you cannot go far wrong with Crémant. Available at around £9 a bottle, it is certainly a more affordable option for most of us. France’s best kept secret, in recent years sales have taken a huge leap forward, and rightly so.

Crémant literally means creamy, which nicely describes the soft velvety sparkle of its bubbles. It does tend to be slightly less effervescent (around 1 bar of atmospheric pressure less) than Champagne. Drier than Prosecco, but less demanding on the palate than Champagne, Crémant is the perfect middle ground.

The production of Crémant is permitted in 8 specified regions of France, in addition to Luxembourg. Crémant is made by the same labour-intensive method as Champagne, with a second fermentation in the bottle.

A wider range of permitted grape varieties is permitted, which varies from region to region, but quality controls are in place to ensure that standards are maintained.

Crémant regulations are slightly less stringent than those in Champagne and although regional rules can vary, all Crémant wines must adhere to requirements such as handharvesting, whole bunch pressing with limited must extraction and a minimum of nine months lees aging. The shorter ageing requirement does mean that in general Crémant can be less complex than Champagne.

The large variety of approved grape varieties can produce unique expressions of Crémant across the regions. These strong

variations in style can make it difficult to pin down a regional identity. In areas like Bordeaux, these wines are often overshadowed by the famous still red, white, and sweet white wines of the region.

Crémant d’Alsace – wines from here make up over 50% of the total Crémant production. White wine can be produced from Pinot Blanc, Auxerrois, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. Crémant d’Alsace may be made from a single grape variety, (and labeled as such), but most are a blend, using Pinot Blanc as the base. Rosé Crémant must be made from 100% Pinot Noir.

Crémant de Bourgogne Crémant de Bourgogne production occurs mainly in the northern area of Auxerre (Chablis), or further south in Rully (Côte Chalonnaise).

In terms of its style, Crémant de Bourgogne can range from the fresh and crisp northern styles, to rounder and fuller wines from southern Burgundy, where grapes are able to achieve a greater level of ripeness. In this region Chardonnay and Pinot Noir dominate, with the occasional use of Gamay, Pinot Blanc, Sacy, Pinot Gris, Aligoté, and/or Melon de Bourgogne. Rosé Crémant is usually made from Pinot Noir although Gamay is sometimes used.

Two labelling terms to look out for here are: Eminent: where the wine has spent a minimum of 24 months on its lees Grand Eminent: only Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are permitted (with up to 20% Gamay for rosés), minimum 10% alcohol, and a minimum of 36 months on its lees.

France. The region has a long history of sparkling wine production and its Crémant is most often made from Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc, although Mauzac and Pinot Noir are used as blending grapes.

Blanquette Méthode Ancestrale and Blanquette de Limoux are two traditional bubblies made predominantly from Mauzac. The former uniquely undergoes finishing of the first fermentation in the bottle itself, with no dosage or disgorgement of the spent yeast cells allowed.

Crémant de Loire Crémant de Loire is made in the Anjou-Saumur and Touraine regions of the Loire Valley. The predominant use of Chenin Blanc gives these top-quality wines unique flavours of lemon, quince, pear, honey, and chamomile.

Although many grape varieties are allowed in Crémant production here, with Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir predominating, curiously the use of Sauvignon Blanc is not permitted.

Crémant production from these other appellations can be difficult to find in the UK but are certainly worth seeking out.

Crémant du Jura, Crémant de Savoie, Crémant de Die, Crémant de Bordeaux (the only appellation where the use of Sauvignon Blanc is permitted).

Lidl Crémant d’Alsace.

Whilst a limited range of Crémants can be found in most major supermarkets, disappointingly, I have found that the quality and accuracy of wine information provided on both the M&S and Waitrose websites falls short of expectations. Given the strong European connection it is no surprise that the best value (and highest scoring) Crémants come from Lidl and Aldi.

(Lidl Crémant de Loire – 12%abv. £7.99, Lidl Crémant d’Alsace – 12%abv. £8.29, Aldi Crémant de Jura – 12%abv. £8.49).

L.P-V.

Crémant de Luxembourg The only country outside of France where the term Crémant can be legally used. It is made from grapes grown in the Moselle district under the Moselle Luxembourgeoise Appellation.

Common grape varieties used in its production include Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Rivaner (Müller Thurgau), Elbling, Auxerrois, Pinot Noir (for rosé), and Chardonnay.

Crémant de Limoux Limoux, France (LanguedocRoussillon) is located in the cooler, high foothills of the Pyrenean Mountains of southern

Chill-Out Somerset For all your refrigerated trailer requirements, outside events, etc.

CONTACT : Martyn Jones 07973 433586 EMAIL : chilloutsomerset@yahoo.com THE VISITOR March 2020 27

Moggs of Wells (Engineering) Ltd came to be based at Cannards Grave, Shepton Mallet in 2008, selling, servicing and repairing all types of garden machinery.

Over the years the choice of machines available has increased considerably, so rather than presenting what may often seem a bewildering choice their aim is to offer what they consider to be the best products, and particular emphasis is given to those manufactured in Great Britain.

You will therefore see a selection of Westwood garden tractors, in 2 wheel and 4 wheel drive, capable of cutting not only long field grass using a very sturdy high grass cutting deck, but also finely kept lawns, combined with their unique grass sweeper system capable of collecting damp cuttings without clogging. These machines have a wealth of features to make

mowing larger areas a pleasure instead of a chore, and come with a choice of engines (mainly Kawasaki), and different size cutter decks ranging from 36” to 50” cutting widths for either mulching or grass collection. They even come with a full 3 years’ warranty.

Moving on, one can see the classic Hayter Harrier roller drive rotary mower, a concept first introduced by Hayter would you believe back in the 1960’s, updated over the years, and most recently just last year, the range now comprising some 12 different versions, starting with a 16”cutting width, through 19” right up to 22”, with 3 versions particularly aimed at the professional user. Engines used vary from Briggs & Stratton, Loncin and Honda, and for domestic use the Harriers have a 5 year warranty.

As an alternative there are the Masport machines from New Zealand, which, having a similar climate to our own, have therefore been designed to cope with similar conditions (e.g. wet grass!).

If you need a chainsaw, hedge trimmer or brushcutter, there is the magnificent range from Echo in Japan, beautifully engineered to give long-lasting performance, as evidenced by their 5 year domestic warranty (2 years for professional use).

Finally, there are zero-turn ride-on machines from Ariens now being built in Britain, which have amazing agility and can really reduce the time taken to cut any area of grass, but most especially when manoeuvring around objects.

All of these machines can be serviced and repaired in a comprehensively equipped workshop staffed by two knowledgeable engineers, both

having attained Briggs & Stratton Master Service Technician status (probably the best qualification in the industry).

Other makes supplied include MTD, Cub Cadet, Lawnflite and Toro, and these too can be fully serviced and repaired as required, including warranty work.

Beyond that, since there are so many different brands in the market, it becomes more a matter of providing advice regarding other suppliers or repairers in the local area who might be able to assist.

Moggs of Wells (Engineering) Ltd have a showroom where a variety of garden machines can be viewed, demonstrations can be facilitated by prior arrangement, and there is free parking on site.

Garden of the Month – March 2020 Hestercombe Gardens

HESTERCOMBE is three centuries of garden design – the exquisite Georgian landscape garden designed by Coplestone Warre Bampfylde, the Victorian Terrace and Shrubbery, and the Edwardian Lutyens/Jekyll partnership designed the Formal Gardens. These, together, make up fifty acres of woodland walks, temples, terraces, pergolas, lakes and cascades.

Added to this visitors can go into Hestercombe House, sited at the centre of the estate, where visitors can experience the contemporary art gallery and second-hand book shop.

The licensed Stables Cafe serves delicious, home-made snacks, lunches, teas and the

cakes are legendary! Situated by the stylish covered courtyard, it is delightful all year round.

The well-stocked Gardens Shop and Plant Centre is a treasure trove of gifts, plants and special treats. There is a play area for under 7's plus a picnic area and different family trails around the gardens.

The beautifully restored 17th century watermill adds extra interest to your visit. There are also special late openings.

Disability information: Gravel paths, steep slopes, steps. All abilities route marked. A Tramper mobility scooter is available - advance booking recommended.

Dogs are welcome on a short lead. Coaches welcome.

NGS opening details: Tuesday 3 March, Tuesday 2 June (10-5).

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

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

Hestercombe is three centuries of garden design – the exquisite Georgian landscape garden designed by Coplestone Warre Bampfylde, the Victorian Terrace and Shrubbery, and the Edwardian Lutyens/Jekyll partnership designed the Formal Gardens.

For other opening times and information, please phone, email or visit the garden website.

Admission: £13.30, child £6.65.

Discount/prepaid vouchers not valid on NGS charity days kindly

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TREE PLANTING

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660

ATC On O Rid sta Mowe e £16 r ting f rs r 99 inc om VAT

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

donated by Hestercombe.

Hestercombe Gardens Trust, Cheddon Fitzpaine TA2 8LG. Telephone: 01823 413923 Email: info@hestercombe.com, Website: www.hestercombe.com Directions: 3m N of Taunton, less than 6m from J25 of M5.

Follow brown tourist signs.

SatNav postcode TA2 8LQ. To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, available from local Garden Centres, or go to: www. ngs.org.uk.

GTL 46HR TWIN    

Cuts up to 5 acres 48” Cutting Deck Twin 4WD 15 litre fuel tank

• Sales • Service • Installation • Delivery • 5 Year Warranties • Expert Staff • Internet Prices

LEE HOLMES Garden Machinery 15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, SOMERTON 01458 274261 • www.leeholmesgardenmachinery.co.uk

30 THE VISITOR March 2020

Lee Holmes of Bancome Business Park in Somerton is a family run Independent Garden Machinery Specialist that offers sales, servicing and repairs on all types of garden machinery.

Ben Johnson Garden Machinery, Shaftesbury

With warmer days not too far ahead of us, most of us are itching to get outside and start enjoying our gardens. There’s no more enjoyable way to trim your grass than riding on a mower.

Established in 1997, Ben Johnson in Wincombe Business Park, Shaftesbury has an extensive range of ride on mowers to suit every type and size lawn.

After a refurbishment, the business now boasts a new and impressive, yet welcoming, showroom for you to browse the great range of garden equipment.

In stock is a wide selection of mowers, hand held chainsaws, trimmers, safety clothing, consumables and much more!

Featuring high quality brands such as Cub Cadet, Husqvarna and Westwood, the product range at Ben Johnson provides excellent value, with ride-on’s starting at £1,800 upwards. For tighter spaces, the product range features a ride-on that gives a spectacularly small turning circle of 12 inches, so there really is a ride-on to suit every budget and lawn.

Whether you opt for a handheld Echo Hedge Trimmer or a top of the range Cub Cadet ride-on, you’ll receive excellent advice and gardening tips from the friendly team who love working with their customers to make gardens beautiful. Ben Johnson also offers equipment servicing, which you can book easily online.

All types of Fencing

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

Ben Johnson Garden Machinery of Shaftesbury stock a wide range of parts and accessories in addition to their huge selection of garden machinery in their recently refurbished showroom.

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

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN You’ll find a huge selection of garden machinery at Ben Johnson in Shaftesbury

Comprehensive choice of machinery and tools including ...

 Chainsaws  Leafblowers  Strimmers  Hedgetrimmers  Mowers ... from manufacturers such as Cub Cadet, Echo, Greenworks Husqvarna, Webb

 Sales  Parts  Servicing  Advice

BenJohnson GARDEN MACHINERY

Ben Johnson, 17d Wincombe Business Park SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ Tel: 01747 851021 • www.benjohnsonmowers.com THE VISITOR March 2020 31

Remember when...

30 years ago from The Visitor archives On the carpet Wincanton Business Park at Lawrence Hill was in its infancy in 1990 and one of the first occupants was Cullingford Carpets, a family company established in 1978 with a shop on Wincanton’s High Street and a showroom in Mere. The March 1990 issue of The Visitor carried a full-page feature on the addition of its large new carpet warehouse, complete with exterior and interior photographs and information about the range of carpets stocked, ‘from the cheapest cords to high quality wool’, and the accessories, underlays, vinyl floorings and measuring and fitting services available. Over the years it has transformed itself into Cullingford Carpets and Interiors and nowadays also provides curtains, blinds, re-upholstery and even artificial grass!

Junk from the bank In the same issue, columnist Geoff Knight described junk mail as ‘one of the plagues of modern times’, adding that ‘no doubt, like me you chuck most of it in the bin without a second thought’. Recycling wasn’t on his radar 30 years ago! But one item he described was from his bank, offering a service ‘whereby you can ring a number at virtually any time night or day and get the latest news on the state of your account or order a statement or cheque book’ simply by paying £14 a year (plus the cost of phone calls).

‘Far be it from me to deny the banks their right to make as much money as possible, but have we become so lazy that we are unable to stagger down to the bank and get this information at less expense?’ he asks, adding that ‘there are few who really cannot get to a bank’. These days there are few who really can get to a bank, as high street branches are now extinct in most of Visitorland.

Cancer scare The big health scare of 1990 was radon, a naturally-occurring radioactive gas which seeps out of the ground and is normally dispersed harmlessly into the air.

It had recently been discovered that in some areas the seepage is much greater than the average and may build up to potentially harmful levels in the home and workplace, levels at which its link 32 THE VISITOR March 2020

with lung cancer was already proven and its link with other cancers was suspected by the Government’s health experts.

South Somerset had been identified as a district with a known radon hazard in some places, so The Visitor published a double-page spread about the gas, the risk and the action readers could take to measure the risk – ‘apply to the National Radiological Protection Board for meters to record radon levels over a threemonth period’ .

Thriving pubs and restaurants According to a report from licensed trade specialists Christie & Co, the West Country market in restaurants, wine bars and pubs had held up well in 1989. ‘There is no shortage of premises at present but vendors are not always being realistic about prices and those overpriced do not sell,’ it noted, adding that there is also no shortage of people wanting to buy into the trade for the first time.

Evidence that the trade was thriving comes from the ‘Wine and Dine’ pages of the March 1990 Visitor which carried adverts from 34 pubs and restaurants. Only five of these have since closed despite the 21st century doom and gloom in the pub sector.

Roasting for mother With Mother’s Day falling on 25th March 1990, a treat for mother featured in 15 of the adverts, with prices ranging from £3.75 for a onecourse roast meal at the Mildmay Arms in Queen Camel to £8.00 for three courses at Horsington House with an unspecified choice of three main courses. Most of the adverts promise a ‘Sunday Roast’ for mother, with three offering a choice of two or three roasts and one offering coq au vin as the alternative to roast beef. None of the 15 mentions fish as an option, and all assume that mothers are meat-eaters – so there’s nothing for vegetarian mums (or for vegans!). Our dietary expectations have certainly changed over the last 30 years.

Roger Richards.

Solution to February

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 April Issue is Friday 13th March

PHONE - a - FIRM • PHONE - a - FIRM SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

TV & AUDIO SPECIALISTS SINCE 1968

● SALES ● SERVICING ● REPAIRS ● INSTALLATIONS

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

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

✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴ Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476

Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EW Tel: 01935 813451 www.goddenandcurtis.co.uk

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 To ADVERTISE in CALL

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 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

01963 351256

MISTER CARPET Independent Carpet Cleaning Specialist

Tel: 01935 862614 Mob: 07752 695264

For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling Slating • GRP Roofing

All New Work Fully Guaranteed For further information & estimates contact Allan Carey

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

Bourton Roofing Co.

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS

 01747 840064

Small and Large Loads Tel: 07973 871708 Evenings: 01935 825506

Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES T I M AT E S

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

THE VISITOR March 2020 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.

For sale

Services

PRIVATE COLLECTION OF Lilliput Lane (forty-three peices) circa 1980-90, too many to list, will not separate, offers over £200. Tel: 01458 272706

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN RUBBISH CLEARED, old sheds / outbuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844

Personal www.country-link.org.uk COUNTRY LINK SOCIAL GROUP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. Tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918 JUST SOMERSET INTRODUCTIONS. Bringing people together. Call Alison Tel: 07584 250285, www.justintro ductionsgroup.co.uk MARTIN, 61, Best dressed man at party.

Find out what I look like, ladies 40-70.

Box no. 10 AN EXTRA INCOME with minimum effort.

For details please visit www.doubledeal.co.uk, if joining please quote reference 001NK

Storage STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles.

Lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692

Prize Crossword No. 400 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 March.

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.

Wanted DAVE BUYS ALL TYPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables.

Daves Tools, Est. 1969. Tel: 01935 428975 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: CDs also considered. Tel: 01458 834102 / 07704229979 / email: tonyartony @aol.com AUTOMOBILIA, AUTOJUMBLE, woodworking and engineering tools. Tel: 01747 850474 POSTCARDS, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. Tel: Clive 01749 675456 A L L S P O RT S P R O G R A M M E S a n d books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. Large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456 YOUR AD HERE from £5. Tel: 01963 351256 to book or email info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Across: 1 Behold! Tax is dark green! [5] 4. Large vessel for southern sides’ joint [5-4] 9. Term miner confused with jollity [9] 10. Dog ate small part of barriers [5] 11. Troubled death strongly disliked [5] 12. Orders small leathers, having no sympathy [9] 13. Box office sales go like clockwork before set is changed [7] 15. Top west dance [3-4] 18. Recent responses show people of moderate opinions [7] 20. Trace is distributed in frost pattern [3-4] 21. Delectable highlands of Bunyan [9] 23. Pit me at rates for 25 [5] 25. Stone paper money [5] 26. GI ill with cola - doesn’t make sense [9] 27. Duck takeover with short answer [9] 28. Orange: want yellow first! [5]

6. Could, with strength [5] 7. More than warm, about to return canvas protection to african tribe [9] 8. Sends off by mail for jobs [5] 14. Current carrier beats time! [9] 16. Take right vote in revolution or can not be easily freed [4-5] 17. Norm returns it by friend in part [9] 19. Ghosts causing inebriation [7] 20. Run sail around about island [7] 21. Car 1000, one of 25 [5] 22. Savers benefit from returning asset [5] 24. Parrot has calcium in its stomach [5]

Solution to Crossword 399

Down: 1. Idly chat, and imply sluggishly inclined [9] 2. Over Stratton hides a distance from old Russia [5] 3. Take bronze clothing for hillclimbing in the car [5-4] 4. Furious, sees around article [7] 5. Take out from pamphlet [7] 34 THE VISITOR March 2020

Winner of our February Crossword

was Bob & Barbara Hollingworth of Crewkerne who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Ward & Sibley of Yeovil.