The Visitor Magazine Issue 443 October 2020

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Issue 443 October 2020

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heddar cheese is produced on an industrial scale in many parts of the world but seldom does it bear much resemblance to Visitorland’s distinctive farmhouse cheddars. The techniques involved in making it originated centuries ago in the Mendip Hills close to Cheddar Gorge and came to be known as Cheddaring when they were adopted elsewhere. Cheddar enthusiasts will doubtless have tasted Keen’s, Montgomery’s and Westcombe; more widely known are Barber’s and Godminster; Wyke Farms is available nationwide in numerous supermarkets and groceries. All are made here in Visitorland and each has its own characteristics. There are probably others I’ve not yet come across, for cheesemaking was once commonplace on our local farms.

Nowadays most of the major hard and soft cheeses of the world – and a growing selection of the minor ones – are stocked by the larger supermarkets and by delicatessen and specialist cheese shops.

But many cheeses are specific to their own area and are available only in their country of origin or the small area around the farms at which they are made. It has long been claimed that France produces a range of cheeses so large that there is a different one for every day of the year. Nowadays the United Kingdom far outnumbers this, with more than 900 different kinds of cheese being produced.

And some of them are growing in popularity abroad. The value of British cheese exports in 2017 (the latest figure I’ve seen) was £615 million, up 23% on the previous year. This is not to denigrate continental cheeses. Where would we be without Roquefort, Camembert and Brie from France, without Gruyère and Emmenthal from Switzerland, without Parmesan, Gorgonzola and Mozzarella from Italy, to name but a few? But it shows that British farmhouse cheeses are undergoing an international renaissance, and in October there is a local opportunity to see why.

Cheesemakers usually showcase their finest products at the annual British Cheese Awards, a competition that is now part of the Royal Bath & West Show at the end of May. The Covid-19 lockdown caused the cancellation of this year’s show, so the Awards were to take place instead at The Dairy Show on Wednesday 7th October at the Bath & West Showground.

Unfortunately due to recent Covid-19 restrictions, this has also been cancelled.

Many cheese producers have been hit hard by the pandemic, especially those who sell in quantity to hotels, restaurants and other catering establishments that had to close for more than three months.

And those who export fear they will be hit again if no trade deal with the European Union can be agreed by the time the Brexit transition expires at the end of the year.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines November Issue published Thursday 29th October Deadline Friday 16th October

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/Features Editor 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 ‑ 20 BOOK REVIEW ‑ 12 CARE FOR THE ELDERLY ‑ 13 CROSSWORD ‑ 34 GARDENING ‑ 30 HOUSE & HOME ‑ 23 LEISURE ‑ 12 LOOKING GOOD ‑ 18 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES ‑ 4 MOTORING ‑ 22 PHONE‑A‑FIRM ‑ 32

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

PUBS ‑ 28 REMEMBER WHEN ‑ 32 SUDOKU ‑ 12 THEY SAY ‑ 29 WINE & DINE ‑ 21

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR October 2020 3

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Dispatches

Go Sober October or try a Sober(ish) October, and raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support

THE IMPACT of Covid-19 has affected everyone across the UK, including millions of people living with cancer, and this year Macmillan is encouraging everyone to get involved with Go Sober, however they can.

As 2020 has already been quite the challenge, this year, Macmillan is introducing some new options for taking part. You can choose to have a Sober(ish) October by taking on the challenge for 21 or 14 days, or go old school and challenge yourself to take on the full 31 days. No matter how long you choose to go sober for, by signing up to the challenge, you’ll be doing

something amazing for people with cancer.

Macmillan is doing everything it can to provide vital emotional, financial or clinical support for people living with cancer who are going through a challenging time.

All money raised will help to make sure Macmillan can continue being there for the millions of people living with cancer in the UK. Macmillan is almost entirely funded by donations and anticipates a loss of 35-50% of its fundraising income due to the pandemic. The charity is now calling on the public to help raise vital funds to ensure cancer does not become the Forgotten C in this crisis.

By taking part you aren’t just helping others, you’re helping yourself too. Having a break from alcohol has great health benefits, such as having more energy, a

clearer head and sleeping better, plus no hangovers!

Every penny raised for Go Sober helps to provide vital support to people with cancer, who need it now more than ever.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED:

1. Sign up for Sober October at or by searching Macmillan Sober October.

2. Supporters are encouraged to get involved however they can. So, take on the booze-free challenge for 14, 21 or the whole 31 days to help support people living with cancer.

3. Buy yourself a Golden Ticket!

We know that pubs and bars are having a hard time, so you can still head to the pub and have a sober sip. The Ticket entitles you to a night off from your Go Sober challenge. You can buy one for yourself or sweet talk a mate into getting you one for a minimum £15 donation. For more details on how to get a Golden Ticket and for more top tips visit www.gosober.org.uk/fundraisi ng/resources/golden-tickets.

New #YouCanAdopt campaign launches in Somerset to dispel the myths of adoption and highlight the number of children looking for a new family

Wednesday 16th September marked the launch of a National campaign to raise awareness of the myths that still surround adoption that will run until December Regional Adoption Agency Adopt South West and local, independent adoption charity Families for Children, join the

coalition of National, Regional and Voluntary adoption agencies across the country, supported by the Department for Education (DfE), to launch a nationwide recruitment campaign to raise awareness of adoption.

In the UK, there are almost 3,000 children that are in need of an adoptive family and the number of adoptions in England has fallen by a third in four years.

In response, the new #YouCanAdopt campaign will bust myths around who is eligible to adopt and explore what the adoption process involves. It will also highlight, especially during the COVID pandemic, there are still children out there who are looking for their new family.

Earlier this year, a new report revealed that 39% of adults in the South West have considered adoption or would consider adoption in the future. But, despite this, 71% of adults do not feel they know much about the adoption process. This lack of knowledge may contribute to too many people not taking the important first step.

To help shine a light on the diverse range of families who have and can adopt, a new emotive film has been released featuring singer Sinitta and TV vocal coaches Carrie and David Grant alongside other families who are joining in encouraging others to consider adoption.

In the film, the adoptive families recite a poem written by comedienne, writer and adoptee Joy Carter, which brings to life the stories of each of the families: the highs, lows and realities of adoption. You can watch the film here: www.youcanadopt.co.uk /you-can-adopt/adoptionstories/#main-video

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Tel: 01935 815534 4 THE VISITOR October 2020

Mentioned in

Dispatches New research shows cultural venues are integral to high streets across the South West

On Tuesday 15 September, Arts Council England published two new pieces of research that show the value of cultural organisations to our high streets - the Arts and Place Shaping: Evidence Review and a data report looking at the location and amenities provided

by Arts Council England funded buildings. The research signals the important role these spaces will play in reanimating local economies as we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The first piece of research commissioned by Arts Council England, the Arts and Place Shaping: Evidence Review, points to a growing body of evidence that demonstrates culture’s role in revitalising the high street by promoting social cohesion and supporting local economies in towns, cities and villages up and down the country. Findings show that culture:

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. Image: Chris Bahn.

Supports community cohesion - cultural organisations can help build civic pride and create an increased sense of belonging in communities.

Increases footfall - libraries, theatres or museums can play a key role in hosting events and offering unique experiences that attract visitors to high streets.

Helps repurpose vacant buildings – arts and cultural organisations are helping fill the gap left by retailers as they move away from high streets, repurposing vacant properties left by retailers into cultural spaces.

Creates good jobs – culture-led regeneration and investment can drive local economic growth and help create employment.

Alongside this, a second report analysing experimental high street data by Ordnance Survey (OS) and a survey of Arts Council funded cultural infrastructure across England shows that cultural buildings are located at the heart of our high streets: Culture has a strong presence on high streets - 75% of buildings used by Arts Council funded organisations are either on or

within a 5-minute walk of a high street. Culture helps support local economies by creating jobs - over 300 cultural venues and buildings are located in unemployment hotspots.

Cultural venues provide additional amenities for the public - nearly a quarter of cultural organisations have a café, bar or bookshop (or a combination of all three) onsite.

There are over 310 Arts Council funded cultural venues located on or within a 5-minute walk of high streets in the South West - attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the area per year and adding tens of millions of pounds to the local economy,

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THE VISITOR October 2020 5

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Dispatches Volunteers needed for Julia's House Charity Shops across Dorset

Do you like to keep busy? Do you have a few hours to spare? Julia’s House, the Dorset and Wiltshire Children’s Hospice charity is seeking volunteers to help out on the tills at its friendly high street shops in Christchurch, Bransgore, Shaftesbury, Weymouth and Wimborne.

The charity’s shops rely on volunteers throughout the week, and are looking for till operatives to serve customers and keep them informed about the charity’s work between 1pm and 5pm on weekdays or morning or afternoon on Saturdays.

Volunteering has lots of benefits from building confidence to reducing stress and is a great way to make friends and have fun.

Liz Thompson, Volunteer Coordinator for Julia’s House, said.

‘You don’t have to have experience to be a volunteer at

Julia’s House as we provide all the training you will require. You just need to be friendly, reliable and have the confidence to talk to our customers and make them feel welcome. It’s a great feeling to be supporting your local community and will make all the difference to the children and families we care for locally. We would love to hear from anyone who has a few hours to spare.’

A host of safety measures in line with current government guidance are in place in all Julia’s House shops, including strict cleaning, handwashing and hygiene procedures. A COVID-19 risk assessment is available to view in each shop and online, and all donations are left to stand for 72 hours before being unpacked.

Julia’s House is a local charity dedicated to supporting the families of children with lifelimiting or life-threatening conditions. It relies on public donations, fundraising and legacies for 95 per cent of the money needed to run its vital service. The charity has two hospices – one in Corfe Mullen,

and one in Devizes in Wiltshire.

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Volunteer@juliashouse.org or pop into their local shop for more information.

their lunchbreaks or after work, while some are making the most of some very active weekends and holidays.’

Branston on track to travel the world in 80 days

Ilminster potato supplier Branston is more than halfway through its challenge to virtually travel around the world in 80 days, to support its charity of the year Children’s Hospice South West.

With over 100 employees and suppliers taking part across its three sites, the company is on track to reach its target of 24,901 miles, with its team having so far walked, run and cycled more than 12,500 miles in 40 days.

In order to complete the challenge, the team needs to cover more than 300 miles a day and is currently just 56 miles ahead of its projected target having reached the Pacific Ocean, just above the islands of Tonga.

James Truscott, managing director at Branston said: ‘We’re really proud of all the team for getting involved and helping us to achieve our goal for our chosen charity. We’ve had staff from all our sites walking, running and cycling. Some are fitting it in to

L to R: James Truscott (managing director), Mark Willcox (technical director) and David Nelson (agronomy director).

The around the world challenge is the latest campaign to support the organisation’s chosen charity of the year, with staff from all its sites boosting their fitness and raising much-needed funds for Children’s Hospice South West, which provides palliative, respite, end of life and bereavement care for life-limited and terminally ill children and their families.

The challenge launched on Saturday 8 August and will finish on Monday 26 October.

If you’d like to donate to Children’s Hospice South West please visit, www.justgiving .com/fundraising/branstonaround-the-world-in-80-days-sout h-west.

THE VISITOR October 2020 7

Cheese, cream, yoghurt and curd earn Great Taste stars for the South West’s herds

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Dispatches BearCat Collective Newsletter: Online Training Courses for Carers, The Honesty Jar SwapShop and join BearCat

BearCat 2020 Zoom Training Project October 6th-15th - book now for live online courses to support home carers - 45 minute online Zoom Awareness & Training Sessions include: •Understanding Mental Health •ASD – Why does my kid do that?

•Dementia Awareness •Self Harming Registration is a £5 contribution as a commitment to attend, which will be added to the funding pot to provide future community training courses.

For more information and booking visit: www.BearCat Collective.co.uk/Healthand SocialCareTraining.

Courses are developed & funded by The Honesty Jar, Simply Training and BearCat Collective.

8 THE VISITOR October 2020

These courses are for personal use only, any care organisations wishing to receive training please contact Simply Training directly.

Join BearCat

Join the friendly team of volunteers for the occasional hour, or regular days / half days, whatever works best with your other commitments. Ping them a message on Facebook or email samantha-jane-@hotmail.co.uk to find out more.

BearCat Collective is a small not-for-profit constituted group, sending occasional reminders of

local community events, workshops and training.

The Honesty Jar SwapShop

The Honesty Jar SwapShop is open 10am-4pm every day except Wednesdays for clothes, homeware, toys, books, DVDs, shoes & more at GrassRoots Garden & Aquatics Centre, Stalbridge Road, Henstridge BA8 0SA. No electricals, duvets, pillows or larger items - if it can't fit on a shelf it is too big for them to take. Find out more at facebook .com/thehonestyjar.

Following 14 weeks of judging, the results of the world’s most trusted food and drink awards, Great Taste, have been released, with many producers in the South West now celebrating.

Out of a record breaking 12,777 entries from 106 different countries, 42% were awarded a highly prized Great Taste accolade and a remarkable 441 are based in the South West.

Among the Great Taste 3-star winners from the South West are a number of products fresh from the dairy’s door, including; Jersey Curd from The Old Cheese Room in Corsham, described by judges as ‘silky and smooth, perfectly firm yet soft’, with ‘a wonderful combination of lactic acidity and creaminess’; the ‘creamy, rich and thick’ Dorset Strained Yoghurt Whole Milk from The Dorset Dairy Co in Sturminster Newton, declared to be a ‘yogurt that delivers everything you want’; Jess's Ladies Organic Double Cream from Jess's Ladies Organic Farm in Hardwicke, which is ‘convincingly luscious, rich, almost yellow, luxurious and full of flavour’, leading one judge to say this is a ‘double cream worthy of the name’; and Cornish

Mentioned in

Dispatches Yarg from Lynher Dairies Cheese Company in Ponsanooth, a ‘fresh tasting, creamy and smooth’ nettle-wrapped cheese that is ‘very moreish and deliciously clean and clear, with a dairy richness which carries and lingers well.’

While these producers enjoy their success and begin displaying the unmistakable gold and black Great Taste logo, with 1-, 2- or 3stars, on their award-winning products, they will wait with much anticipation to see if they also scoop the top awards for their

region. These final honours, including the Great Taste 2020 Supreme Champion, will be announced at the virtual Great Taste Golden Fork awards event, set to take place in October.

Recognised as a stamp of excellence among consumers and retailers alike, Great Taste, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, values taste above all else, with no regard for branding or packaging. Whether it is cake, coffee, kippers or kombucha being judged, all products are removed from their packaging before being tasted. The judges then savour, confer and re-taste to decide which products are worthy of a 1-, 2- or 3-star award.

This year’s winners have been found through a combination of remote judging and socially distanced judging sessions, after the lockdown began just one week

This year’s Great Taste winners have been found through a combination of remote judging and socially distanced judging sessions.

into the schedule. This necessitated a swift and comprehensive reinvention of the Great Taste process to ensure that robust judging standards were maintained and the quality of feedback was not compromised, all in time to provide a muchneeded boost for food and drink producers during the allimportant Christmas period.

Details of this year’s winners can be found at www.great tasteawards.co.uk and a wide range of award winning products are available to buy in delis, farm shops and independent retail outlets across the country.

Private Shopping Experience at Needful Things

At Needful Things, starting on the 12th of November, in addition to their normal opening hours of 9.00 to 5.00, Mon to Sat, this magical gift and Christmas shop is offering you the chance to book a 30 minute ‘Private Shopping’ experience on Thursday evenings from 5.15pm.

Groups of upto 6 people, can avoid the crowds and enjoy a few unhurried moments to find the perfect selection of gifts and decorations, cards and wrap to help make your Christmas extra special this year. Perhaps this will help those who are still

shielding, to shop with family members, at a gentler pace and to feel safer? Or maybe you have a small group of friends who would enjoy a 'shop till you drop' half hour?

To book, simply ring 01963 351352 and ask to book a ‘Thursday evening private shopping slot’. On arrival you and your group will be welcomed with chocolates and a free entry into a special prize draw!

Important Note: Hand sanitizer must be used on entry and face masks worn. You will need to keep 2 metres apart within the store unless you're in the same family ‘bubble’. This is a simple yet fun way to shop safely, especially if you're still feeling a little nervous about going out.

The owners and staff at Needful Things want everyone to feel confident in visiting this much loved store.

So look out for the start of this year's amazing Christmas displays and come and see them if you can. The welcome, on normal daytimes or on a special Thursday evening private viewing slot, will be as warm as ever and the displays this year, designed especially to lift our spirits, will delight us all, at this most challenging of times. Get ready for some fun!

THE VISITOR October 2020 9

Mentioned in

Dispatches Trinity Manor Care Home does a 7-Hour Spinathon for World Alzheimers Day Staff at Trinity Manor in Sherborne have taken on a 7 hour Spinathon Challenge to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society as part of Alzheimer’s awareness month.

World Alzheimer's Month is the international campaign every

Trinity Manor Care Home raised a grand total of £200 by completing the Spinathon challenge, which will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Society.

10 THE VISITOR October 2020

September to raise awareness and challenge the stigma that surrounds dementia. September 2020 marks the 9th World Alzheimer's Month. The campaign was launched in 2012.

World Alzheimer's Day is on 21 September each year.

Residents and staff were all very supportive and were there to cheer on the participants as they began the fundraising challenge.

Neil Hardy, General Manager at Trinity Manor Care Home, said: ‘Taking part in this challenge has been a huge amount of fun and everyone at the home has been behind us all the way. It’s for such an important cause. I’m very glad to be able to do my bit to raise further awareness and money for the charity.’

Trinity Manor Care Home raised a grand total of £200 by completing the challenge, which will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Society.

Trinity Manor Care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals. Trinity Manor provides residential, dementia and respite care.

Want to get out and about safely with the family this Half Term? Why not make a visit to The Bishop’s Palace in Wells, where they’ll have plenty to entertain the kids with their Half Term Family Trail.

Half Term at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells 21st October 2nd November 2020

If you want to get out and about safely with the family this October Half Term, why not make a visit to The Bishop’s Palace in Wells, where they’ll have plenty to entertain the kids with their Half Term Family Trail.

Designed to get young and old alike to explore the 14 acres of Palace Gardens, the ‘Squirrels and Leaves’ Half Term Family Trail will give you an excuse to

enjoy the fresh air and autumn views.

The site is open from 10am4pm daily and, when they’ve finished the trail, the little ones can enjoy playing in The Dragon’s Lair natural play area which has been recently re-furbished.

The Bishop’s Table café will be open with inside and outside seating, for breakfast, snacks, lunches and hot & cold drinks.

Pick up a trail from the Shop or download from the Palace website, and head off together on an autumn adventure!

Mentioned in

Dispatches Muchelney Pottery is open again!

Having closed for 5 months at the beginning of lockdown, September saw production resume once again at Muchelney Pottery and the shop and gallery re-open to visitors.

Muchelney Pottery Kitchenware Pots. Photo: Carole Melbourne.

Tom Rees Firing Kiln.

Photo: Richard Austin.

brimming with pots ready to be glazed and then woodfired which is when they will get their trademark 'toasted' finish.

The shop and gallery have re-

opened and feature a large display of Muchelney Pottery's catalogue range of kitchenware pots as well as some of the latest signed work by John Leach, Mark

Melbourne and Nick Rees. Please note new opening hours: Wed Sat, 10-1, 2-4.

Christmas Shopping - with Christmas fast approaching, specially selected items are available as gift sets, these are only available in the Muchelney shop so do pop in to see what is available! Open: Wednesday Saturday, 10-1, 2-4. Muchelney Pottery, Nr Langport, TA10 0DW. Visit www.johnleachpottery. co.uk and www.instagram.com /muchelney.pottery.

MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 2 Bailey Hill Castle Cary BA7 7AD Tel: 01963 351052

Mark Melbourne making pots for the kiln firing.

The Christmas kiln firing, which is also the first since lockdown, is scheduled for the end of October and the kiln shed is

Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Personal and professional service

THE VISITOR October 2020 11

BOOK REVIEW With

Wayne Winston of

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 September Sudoku on page 29.

Those Who Are Loved

by Victoria Hislop Headline Publishing Group Paperback: 512 pages ISBN-13 : 978-1472223227 RRP: £8.99

2) Who had a hit with ‘I Can’t Let Maggie Go’ in 1968?

Victoria has a knack of bringing Greek history to vivid life packed with research but not too much so that it bogs down the story.

A f te r de c a de s o f po litic a l uncertainty, Greece is polarised between right and left-wing views when the Germans invade.

Fifteen-year-old Themis comes from a family divided by these political differences. The Nazi occupation deepens the fault-lines between those she loves just as

3) Name the band that made the album ‘Pretzel Logic’?

Just Somerset Introductions

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

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 29 1) Name the band who are full of 'Happiness' right now.

4) How many ‘Tears’ did the ‘Goombay Dance Band’ have in 1982?

5) Name the legendary guitarist who joined the Rolling Stones on the single 'Scarlet'?

6) Who had a 2002 hit with ‘Harry’s Bar’?

7) Elvis Costello said ‘It’s a Good Year for the…’ what?

8) Lyric; ‘Your friends with their fancy persuasions don’t admit that it’s part of a scheme’ 9) Who was at number one and with what song in the middle of October 2010?

10) Which Beatle made an album of old standards entitled 'Sentimental Journey'?

This month's bonus question Although not released until July 2020, the song featured in Q5 appeared on which Stones album?

Great Quotes in Music (122) ‘If you have to ask what jazz is, then you'll never know' – Louis Armstrong

12 THE VISITOR October 2020

Just Somerset Introductions are a Professional Introduction Agency that offer a personal caring and confidential service.

During this time it’s more important than ever to make those connections with other people. As we adapt to a new ‘normal’ it is good to be able to

it reduces Greece to destitution.

She watches friends die in the ensuing famine and is moved to commit acts of resistance.

In the civil war that follows the end of the occupation, Themis joins the Communist army, where she experiences the extremes of love and hatred and the paradoxes presented by a war in which Greek fights Greek.

Eventually imprisoned on the infamous islands of exile, Makronisos and then Trikeri, Themis encounters another prisoner whose life will entwine with her own in ways neither can foresee. And finds she must weigh her principles against her desire to escape and live.

As she looks back on her life, Themis realises how tightly the personal and political can become entangled. While some wounds heal, others deepen.

This gripping new novel from bestselling author Victoria Hislop sheds light on the complexity and trauma of Greece’s past and weaves it into the epic tale of an ordinary woman compelled to live an extraordinary life.

'A glorious Greek setting and rich historical detail form the backdrop of this captivating and poignant story' get out and socialise in a careful way, be it as a one to one or in a small group.

Every client has an interview in their own home and is ID checked. Doing their best to keep the social side of the group going as the guidelines allow - they offer one to one intros and have small group socials organised for everyone’s safety. They are a very friendly bunch so why not join them and expand your social circle! They offer extra fun things this year like mystery caller and mystery meets too! They have many happy couples who have come together through their group. For more on this and all other information do look at the website www.justintroductions group.co.uk or give Alison a call on 07584 250285 - she is looking forward to hearing from you.

Meanwhile, please keep washing those hands, socially distanced and wearing masks!

Care for the Elderly Bluebird Care

Bluebird Care are now offering a realistic, affordable alternative to residential care. Their live in service means you can remain in the comfort of your own home supported by a highly trained member of their live in team.

Live in care offers you the flexibility to live your life how you want to. Bluebird understand that a persons needs change and

Carer Support Dorset Seeking Two New Trustees

CARER SUPPORT Dorset is looking to recruit two trustees, ideally with expertise in all or a combination of the legal and governance work and health and social care.

The new trustees would be supporting the charity in its aims to provide services such as these for unpaid carers and influence care and support policy. The average time commitment for these roles will be one day per month and the charity will do its utmost to accommodate any special needs or provide training required. Becoming a trustee can be a fantastic way to make a real difference to a cause you believe in and learn new skills along the way.

The aim of the organisation is to create carer friendly communities where carers are recognised, valued and supported.

they offer a wide range of care and support including personal care, housework, social activities in and out of the home. Their electronic care management system means that your loved ones can login anytime to see how you are doing. Bluebird care, enabling independence by offering you 24 hour support in your own home. Find out more at www.bluebirdcare.co.uk.

Carer Support Dorset is seeking two new trustees, could it be you?

As a member of the Board of Trustees you will have the opportunity to make a real difference to carers’ lives through quality governance, development and monitoring of the organisations strategic goals and supporting the team and volunteers in the delivery of the services.

Full details of the roles can be found here at: www.carer supportdorset.co.uk/volunteer.

THE VISITOR October 2020 13

Care for the Elderly Age UK Somerset’s ‘Ageing Well’ team continue to encourage physical activity throughout the pandemic

Ageing Well, a programme managed by local, independent charity Age UK Somerset, is dedicated to improving the health and well being of older adults and - prior to the Coronavirus pandemic - held exercise sessions in local venues across the county.

Many of these were focused on improving strength and balance and were part of a falls prevention programme run in partnership with Somerset County Council.

Along with some other services the charity offered, all of their

classes had to close in March.

This was particularly difficult as for many older people, these regular sessions were important for both mental and physical wellbeing - an opportunity to meet and socialise, as well as improve fitness and stability.

Age UK Somerset has been working incredibly hard throughout and since the lockdown period. Because they support those who are most at risk from severe illness due to coronavirus, and those whose movements have been most restricted, they have been busier than ever. Despite some services being paused due to their physical nature, others have sprung up to

department has also been inundated with calls related to Covid 19, alongside their usual requests for help with claiming benefits and numerous other topics.

Ivy Thorne’s yoga class – one of the first that will be resuming mid October.

meet the new needs of this strange time, for example their telephone service called ‘Friendly Phonecalls’, to help alleviate feelings of isolation and boredom.

Their Information and Advice

Chris Burtt – experienced AW teacher, who is holding her ‘Movement to Music’ classes twice weekly via Zoom.

The Ageing Well team adapted to the situation by starting regular, daily online classes for its existing clients. Taught by their experienced instructors, they included a range of general exercise sessions as well as Qigong Tai Chi and yoga.

Part exchan availabge le

home Visits Rachel Jelbert (Tai Chi teacher) having one of her online coffee mornings with her regulars!

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14 THE VISITOR October 2020

As many clients were not familiar with online programmes like zoom, numbers were limited, so that the team could oversee each class and offer individual support where needed.

The classes have been hugely successful and for many offer a chance to ‘see’ their old friends and chat before and after class.

Some teachers have even held virtual ‘coffee mornings’ with their classes, to help keep their groups connected.

They will soon be opening up the classes to allow anyone over 60 - and living in the county - to attend. Bookings will be made through the charity’s website.

‘Real’ classes will start to reopen in mid-October, once locations have been thoroughly checked for compliance with distancing and sanitization. Real and online classes will run concurrently, so that all Ageing Well clients are able to attend a class, irrespective of where they

Care for the Elderly

resident, more one-on-one time with carers, with technology connecting residents with the outside world.

Calway House were the first care home to pilot Relsapp at the beginning of lockdown, which proved to be a hit. The safe, private app, bridges communication gaps between families’ generations, allowing residents to exchange messages, pictures, videos and music with loved ones. Homes shared knitted hearts and letters with loved ones, to show they are in each others thoughts. Other homes spruced up their gardens with great input from residents, to make it more welcoming to visitors, and enjoyed home-grown fruit and vegetables.

You’ll be amazed by the range of living aids, chairs, mobility scooters and frames at Regency Care & Mobilty, Crewkerne.

Pop in for a warm welcome and expert advice.

live. To find out more about the charity’s activities, visit www.ageuk.org.uk/somerset.

Somerset Care

Loneliness has been a large concern for many during lockdown. Particularly prevalent in the elderly, AgeUK reports 1.9 million older people can feel invisible. Government and CQC

COVID-19 guidelines stipulate that care home residents are restricted to one visitor, outdoors, at a social distance.

Taking this into account, Somerset Care got extra creative with each resident in its 27 care homes and home care services.

The primary focus being stimulating entertainment, catered to the needs of each

Relsapp - an app that bridges communication gaps between families’ generations, allowing residents to exchange messages, pictures, videos and music with loved ones.

Unable to visit the seaside, Wessex House brought the beach to its residents, with a week of summer fete activities. Rowden House created its own music video to share with their dearest, reassuring them they are well and happy.

These extraordinary times are a reminder of the importance to support people to live the life they choose, no matter what is against them. To discover more call 0800 817 4990 or visit www.somerset care.co.uk.

Suttons Stairlifts

Suttons Stairlifts is a family-run business dedicated to providing a fair and ethical service with a no-pressure selling policy.

They offer a range of new or refurbished Handicare stairlifts, either straight or curved throughout the West Country.

All prices include full installation plus a comprehensive guarantee. They also offer a rental option for straight stairlifts as well as servicing and safety checks, repairs and removals.

Handicare stairlifts offer features such as a powered swivel seat and powered folding footplate allowing you to operate these functions at the touch of a button.

All Handicare stairlifts have

THE VISITOR October 2020 15

Care for the Elderly

Could an outdoor stairlift installed by Suttons Stairlifts help you get out this Autumn?

safety sensors on the power pack and footplate which are designed to stop the lift if it meets any obstruction.

They will visit you to survey the staircase and conduct a user assessment leaving you the leaflets and prices so you can make the decision in your own time.

With their inclusive and comprehensive 12 or 24 month warranty and 365 day coverage you can be assured of a first-class and personal service. Give them a call on 01749 346900 or visit www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk.

Fern Brook Lodge care home opens new wing to support more residents

Care South is delighted to unveil a new residential wing at Fern Brook Lodge care home, in Fern

Brook Lane, Gillingham, following extensive refurbishments.

After opening the doors to the new look residential and dementia care home in March

A panoramic view of the Fern Brook Lodge gardens.

The new first-floor wing at Fern Brook Lodge provides bright and spacious communal lounges.

16 THE VISITOR October 2020

Care for the Elderly and being rated ‘Good’ in all areas by the industry watchdog, the CQC, Fern Brook Lodge can now support more residents to enjoy life with peace of mind during COVID-19.

The new first-floor wing provides bright and spacious communal lounges, peaceful sensory rooms and modern, personalised bedrooms with ensuite facilities.

Throughout COVID-19, Fern Brook Lodge has been a safe haven, providing companionship and comfort to new and existing residents.

To arrange a virtual tour of the new wing, or for more information about creating a home at Fern Brook Lodge, please visit or call Home Manager Stanley today on 01747 834020.

Beechwood House, Yeovil

Set in large, accessible gardens, Beechwood House Care Home in Yeovil, provides a very high standard of residential care for 27 elderly people, all having ground level, ensuite rooms.

Family-owned for over 20 years, their aim is to provide a caring and comfortable home for people who feel unable or do not wish to live on their own any longer. Despite media portrayal,

their care home is one of the safest places to live.

With dedicated, friendly staff and robust infection control procedures, they have had no cases of COVID-19 and all staff are tested weekly. They are open for new residents and welcome visitors to see their loved ones, following the current guidelines.

Their difference is the personal touch, they get to know everyone individually and aim to create a family home atmosphere. They look forward to meeting you at Beechwood House – a safe home for your loved one.

Mendip Mobility Street and Trowbridge

Established in 2007, Mendip Mobility Ltd aim to provide excellent service and quality value for money products to their customer base which now reaches further into Wiltshire. The two local retail outlets containing their extensive range of rise and recline chairs, adjustable beds, bath lifts, scooters, everyday living aids and quality branded mobility products enable customers to see the equipment first hand and receive professional help from knowledgeable staff.

Mendip Mobility Ltd are keen to spend time with everyone who

comes through their doors. They will discuss your options and needs and provide demonstrations both in store and at home to make sure the products you purchase suit your individual requirements. Contact their Street store on 01458 448355 or their retail outlet in Trowbridge on 01225 764800, please see their advert for the full address and further details.

Highfield House, Castle Cary

Highfield House is completely dedicated to involving the people who live there in excellent care and support received by listening to, and acting upon people’s feed back. At the heart of Highfield House are their concerns for each person’s happiness, health, safety, well-being and dignity.

This is reflected by the Beacon Status achieved with the nationally recognised Gold Standards Framework and Awards for Care Home of the Year, and the award for Dementia and Palliative Care.

Their vision is to be a leader in providing a responsive care service where the standard of care and calibre of staff are second to none. The mission is to provide a safe, warm and friendly environment where excellent person-centred care is offered and where staff appreciate the unique qualities of each individual living at Highfield House.

HIGHFIELD HOUSE

Outstanding & Award Winning Residential Care Home We are passionate about providing EXCELLENT care and support in a homely environment.

Situated in the centre of Castle Cary we benefit from all the delights that Castle Cary has to offer within a short walk. Our calibre of staff is second to none and we are here to cater for each and every individual person.

Please feel free to contact us for any further information.

Telephone: 01963 350697 Email: manager@highfieldhouse.net www.highfieldhousecastlecary.com

The beautiful gardens at Beechwood House.

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

Call SANDRA BARCLAY, Manager on 01935 472793 for an informal chat 60 West Coker Road, Yeovil BA20 2JA email: info@beechwoodcarehome.co.uk • www.beechwoodcarehome.co.uk THE VISITOR October 2020 17

other nervines for stress. Use 13 teaspoons of herb per mug of hot water. Infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink 3 times a day.

Family Health with Jenna Evans

White Willow (Salix alba)

THIS MONTH we’re returning to our herbal A-Z, with a look at Vervain, White Willow and Yarrow.

Vervain (Verbena officinalis)

The aerial parts of this pretty herb have analgesic, antibacterial, anticoagulant, antispasmodic, astringent, diaphoretic, sedative, tonic and vulnerary effects. Vervain is a wonderful tonic for the nervous system, soothing anxiety, lifting the spirits and supporting the body when under stress. It can be very helpful for stress related headaches, indigestion, insomnia and muscle pain.

Vervain is a diuretic and detoxifier that may be used where there is fluid retention. It can help ease contractions during childbirth and enhance the milk supply in nursing mothers. In the digestive system, Vervain may help enhance appetite and support liver function.

Can be used externally to treat cuts and insect bites or as an astringent mouthwash for bleeding gums. Combines well with Wood Betony (see below), or

The bark of this familiar tree is rich in salicylates (one of the original starting materials for aspirin) and has long been used as a pain reliever and to treat fevers. The bark of the willow is analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anodyne, antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, febrifuge, sedative and tonic. White Willow may be used to treat head colds, fevers and ‘flu working on the common symptoms such as muscular aches and pains, headaches and inflammation.

In the musculoskeletal system, White Willow can be useful for arthritis, gout, rheumatism, aching muscles and issues such as bursitis and tendonitis. White Willow can be helpful during inflammatory flare ups from autoimmune conditions. While aspirin can irritate the gut, White Willow can actually be soothing. Its astringency makes it useful for diarrhoea, dysentery and dyspepsia.

May be useful for heavy periods and can help reduce fluid retention as a diuretic. Much like Vervain, when used topically it can be a useful treatment for cuts and wounds as well as a gargle for sore throats, mouth ulcers and bleeding gums. Some people are sensitive to salicylates and should avoid using White Willow.

Due to the theoretical risk from

Winter Collection

Vervain - Verbena officinalis.

Photo: Martin Fowler /shutterstock.com.

Reye’s syndrome (which aspirin is linked to) children should not use White Willow to treat an illness without consulting a practitioner. To make a decoction add two teaspoons of White Willow bark to two cups of water on the hob. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes. Leave to cool a little, strain and drink 1 cup, 3 times a day.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

The aerial parts of this plant are used and possess analgesic, astringent, antihistamine, antiinflammatory, antimicrobial,

diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant and haemostatic properties. The tannins help protect the gut, making Yarrow helpful for inflammation and infection. It is also a digestive helping to stimulate the appetite and relieve gastric spasm.

Yarrow can be a useful aid for fevers, colds and congestion. As a diuretic it can soothe an irritated bladder. Can be used for allergies, autoimmune conditions, to encourage the rash state in eruptive skin diseases and to reduce PMS and heavy menstrual bleeding. Externally Yarrow can speed the healing of wounds, ulcers, varicose veins and haemorrhoids. It was once used as a snuff to help stop nose bleeds. Yarrow should be avoided in pregnancy, if allergic to the Asteracea family of plants and with anticoagulants. May cause contact dermatitis. Combines well with Elderflower and Peppermint to relieve colds. Infuse 1-3 teaspoons in a mug for 15 minutes and drink 3 times a day.

See you in November, when we’ll be taking a look at how to make tinctures and ointments – fun!

•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, 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 wth any existing health conditions.

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Healthy Heart Tips with Dr Helen Flaherty Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK Watch your stress levels

We all experience stress from time to time. There are many things that can lead to us feeling stressed. It can come from the news, our jobs, financial insecurity, health issues and personal problems. Feeling constantly stressed and overwhelmed can lead to a rise in blood pressure and resting heart rate, both of which increase our risk of having a heart attack.

We have some tips to help you avoid unnecessary stress and deal with existing stress in a healthy way.

What is stress?

Stress is essentially when we feel threatened or under pressure and our bodies are preparing to either fight or run away from our current situation. This so-called ‘fight or flight’ response should only occur on rare occasions and it is useful for getting us out of dangerous situations. For many people stress can be more long term and persistent and this can have a negative impact on our mental and physical health.

Avoid too much news

Whilst it may be important for us to stay up to date with current affairs, a constant stream of negative news reports can be a

source of stress and anxiety. The World Health Organization recommends that we watch, read or listen to the news just once or twice a day for short periods. Why not schedule a daily timeslot when you will allow yourself to check the news (e.g. 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm).

Walk your way to a healthy heart

Not only is regular physical activity good for our heart health, but it can also alleviate stress. It is recommended that adults get 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each week, such as brisk walking.

When we feel stressed, we may tell ourselves we are too busy to exercise. However, physical activity does not have to be a time-consuming chore.

Incorporating small changes to increase our daily steps can improve our overall mental and physical health. You could start by making small changes, such as parking at the furthest point away from the shop entrance in the car park, getting off the bus a stop early, or leaving your office during your lunch break to take a walk.

things you can do to ease your stress levels and lower your blood pressure. To do this all you need is 10 minutes of your day to sit and do absolutely nothing but concentrate on your breathing.

Meditation is one of the simplest and cheapest ways of reducing your stress levels and blood pressure, and there are many free guided meditation resources online to teach you how to do it.

Ask for help

Sometimes stress can feel overwhelming and you may need a little help to manage it. Try speaking to a friend, family member or a work colleague about how you feel. If you think you would benefit from professional help, you can speak to your GP. You can find more healthy tips, recipes and advice at www.heartresearch.org.uk.

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

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil

Our repair section of the business is pleased to offer

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Luxury, quality and rarity in demand in 650-lot Collectors Sale

LAWRENCES’ three-day sale of Books, Militaria and Collectors’ Items drew to a close on September 11th with a 650-lot selection for every sort of Collector. It comprised such a variety of items that a poster for the James Bond film ‘Moonraker’ (£135) was just a couple of hundred lots from a glass-domed case containing a taxidermied two-head duckling (£90).

The highlights were rather more dependably mainstream: a

good Victorian dolls house with dolls within made £1,625; a selection of accessories for a dolls’ house included miniature food, fireplaces and even a step ladder (£2,375); and some miniature dolls suitable for such a house sold above expectations at £1,750.

Two rather dissimilar musical instruments performed well: an antique cello with a specious label for 1658 found buyers who tuned in at £2,375 whilst a modern Fender Telecaster guitar struck a chord with collectors to make £1,620.

Continuing the musical theme,

INSTANT CASH FOR YOUR OLD TOYS! ANY TOYS CONSIDERED Established business paying BEST prices for old toys in any condition  Dinky  Britains  Corgi  Meccano  Hornby  Lego Sets  Matchbox  Scalextric  Action Men  Star Wars Home visits or shop valuations

This Namiki fountain pen, with a 14-carat nib and a silver cover recently sold for £6,250 at Lawrences Auctioneers Collectors Sale.

a musical box made £1,375.

Two maritime items sold well: two 19th Century sailor’s Valentines shells, decorated with heart motifs and floral designs, made £2,750; and a Primitive naval painting on wood panel – a piece of ‘Folk Art’ and probably painted on the lid of a seaman’s chest - sailed to £2,370.

Other strong prices included £1,250 for signed photographs of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth; £1,500 for a Japanese silk embroidered coat; a surprising surge of interest for three watercolours of Taunton by Harry Frier that made £1,370;

and £2,250 for a rare war time hardback 55th edition of the 1918 Wisden’s Cricketers Almanack.

Luxury always seems to command a premium: four bottles of 1959 Chateau Margaux raised bids – and may yet raise glasses – at £1,370; a bottle of ‘The Macallan, Single Highland Malt Scotch Whisky’,18 years old, distilled in 1972 and bottled in 1990, was knocked down – and may yet be knocked back – at £2,000; and a fine quality vintage Louis Vuitton trunk went just over its estimate to make £1,000.

For a small piece of shameless luxury, set aside the computer keyboard and pick up a rare Namiki fountain pen, with a 14carat nib and a silver cover.

The lucky buyer will savour every word he writes with this 10.5cm pen: this lot cost £6,250.

The total for the three days exceeded £540,000 with barely 7% unsold.

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Keep your spirits up!

IN ADDITION to the impact of the Coronavirus on our social freedom, physical and mental wellbeing and financial situation, another key factor that should not be ignored is what has been dubbed ‘Lockdown Belly’ or ‘Covid Kilos’.

Having been isolated at home for almost five months I have certainly been feeling the results of over-indulgence of both alcohol and additional calorie intake. To put not too fine a point on it, I am now a fat little pig and officially obese! Nothing to be proud of. Losing the additional weight gain (in the region of 30lbs.) is now my top priority, and I have come to the conclusion that the only way I will shed those excess pounds is to stop cramming so much stuff into my gob.

Clearly drastic measures are called for; hence my renewed interest in Dr. Michael Mosley’s carb-free diet, otherwise known as the Keto diet. My own GP is a fan of Mosley and having lost a

stone in a month last year, quite easily, and felt pretty good on it, I am on the case again.

Sticking within a daily carb. allowance to keep the body in ketosis means saying goodbye to sweets, snacks and other highcarb indulgences, like soft drinks and alcohol, especially wine.

It does require discipline and careful planning though, especially when it comes to alcohol consumption. Did I mention that during lockdown I completely depleted my copious wine supply, totalling 157 bottles; not entirely unaided I hasten to add. However, there are plenty of low-carb alcoholic beverages to enjoy in moderation.

Spirits such as whisky, gin, tequila, rum and vodka are all completely free of carbs (yippee!) and when combined with low or no carb. mixers and a squeeze of lemon or lime, a decent sized drink can still come in at under 3 grams of carbs, and relatively low in calories too. I have been trying to restrict myself to a maximum of 800 calories per day,

Italian Blood Orange Soda - created from Sicilian blood oranges with herbs including wormwood and balsam.

and no more than 30gr. of carbs.

Adding soda water to my nightly tipple can nicely perk it up, either by the addition of one of the many flavoured spirits on the market (many are carb. and calorie free but it is best to check the label) or a slice of lemon or lime. However, a word of warning … over-indulgence in something as seemingly innocuous as soda water had, shall we say, disastrous results when it came to my digestive system. Not to be recommended at all!

I am a fan of Fever Tree and have been delighted to discover their new range of flavoured soda waters, all of which made lovely long refreshing summer drinks.

Many of the major spirit manufacturers have also launched their own versions of flavoured ‘seltzers’ but many of these are comparatively heavy on the sugar (for which read carbs.).

It is also worth remembering that when looking at labels (I have become obsessive, albeit temporarily) nutritional information is invariably based on 100ml., hardly sufficient to wet your whistle.

A final word of warning – do remember to check with your GP or health professional before embarking on any diet regime.

Keep your spirits up!

L.P-V.

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MOTORING VINTAGE Motorcycling with Rod Hann THE RISK OF Covid continues but restrictions are being eased and people seem to be finding ways of continuing some form of normal life and stay within the very necessary rules. Most clubs are now having some form of riding events but in general club nights are still not happening.

Both the Westlands and Wells Classic Motorcycle Clubs have resumed limited riding so if interested I suggest you check on their web sites to gain up to date information. As with most things detailed arrangements are rather fluid at present so a check on the web sites should give better information than I can give here.

The Somerset Section of the VMCC has also reinstalled its programme of riding events albeit with some restrictions.

Scheduled for October will be the Autumn Leaves Run on the 11th which starts at the New Manor Farm Shop, Bishop Sutton, 1030am for an 11am move off.

Looking into November on the 1st they have the Guy Fawkes Run from the Cheddar Garden Centre. The Dorset Section are also reverting to their planned programme of events and so on the 4th will be the Autumn Run which starts at Sherborne and the South Dorset Section are

1911 Royal Enfield model 160 which has a Motosacoche engine.

continuing with their programme of events. If you need further details then please ring 01935 872528.

Now for some news emanating from the Isle of Wight. Planned for October 2021 is a series of TT road races. There will be two days practice on a Wednesday and Thursday followed by a day off before racing on the Saturday.

Exact dates are not finalised as yet. A 17.5 mile circuit along the southern edge of the island has been planned and I believe the event will be run on similar lines to that on the Isle of Man. Talks are well advanced with the local authorities and with the ACU who control and authorise such events. Watch this space for more information as and when it becomes available. I may have to make early plans for a holiday in the Isle of Wight next October.

I have written recently of some very clever people doing

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22 THE VISITOR October 2020

remarkable things in home workshops and so I thought I would continue the theme again this month. A friend, Mostyn, has a wonderful setup at home for doing almost any job and, more importantly, he has the knowledge and practical skill to do any job. Apart from overhauling magnetos and doing nickel plating I think he undertakes every other task. If he need a special tool for doing a particular job then he will often make the tool required.

Mostyn had a desire to have a Veteran machine and eventually found an incomplete machine in need of complete restoration. The bike is a 1911 Royal Enfield model 160 which has a Motosacoche engine rated at 2 3/4hp, or around 344cc.

The Motosacoche engine was made in Switzerland and is an exquisite piece of engineering.

Everything seems to be made in minature and of outstanding quality. Mostyn first made new bushes and bearings and attended to the valve gear but the pistons were beyond further use. Undeterred Mostyn collected a load of old pistons and went to his furnace, which of course he had made himself, and melted the aforesaid pistons before casting some new blanks. These

blanks were then machined and made into new pistons of the correct size, he even balanced them to ensure sweet running of the engine. This is typical of the man.

The cycle parts needed much work before he could spray paint all the parts. The petrol tank he remade and painted including the coloured panels and the coachlining. The wheel rims needed replacing so undaunted he bought new rims and spokes and re-laced them himself. The saddle needed refurbishment which included replacing the leather cover, another job he had not undertaken before but in true spirit he did it himself and a very smart job he has made of it.

You can judge all this work for yourselves by studying the accompanying photograph taken just before completion of the bike.

It does show though that with a little ingenuity, a lot of patience, much hard work and a lot of skill, just what can be done in the home workshop. When complete what a thrill awaits when it is time for that first ride, and what a sense of pride and achievement he must feel. Mostyn I am full of admiration of your work and I take my hat off to you. May you and the Royal Enfield enjoy many miles in each others company.

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Evoke Your Emotions with Frenchic Paint Colours

WHILE YOU might not realise it, colours and emotions are closely linked. Colours have the power to trigger emotions in us, and these reactions are rooted in psychological effects, biological conditioning and cultural imprinting.

That’s why it’s so important to understand colour psychology and choose colours wisely when it comes to decorating. Certain paint colours can be used to create a lively and energetic mood (ideal in the kitchen or living room), while others can evoke calmness and relaxation (in the bedroom or bathroom, for instance).

in dining rooms, living rooms and other spaces where people gather.

Yellow is simply happy. It’s been long associated with positivity, laughter and sunshine.

This hue is stimulating and makes everything feel light and sunny, for a calming psychological effect. On the flip side, it can also be perceived as abrasive when used in the wrong context.

While soft yellows work best to convey a cheery atmosphere, bright yellows or too much yellow can trigger caution. Work to find the right shade of yellow, use it sparingly and consider combinations with other complementary colours. This hue tends to work best in kitchens, dining rooms and bathrooms.

As one of the most natural pigments, green is the easiest on the eyes. It represents balance and harmony, as well as growth and renewal. Lighter shades of green with a mix of yellow are cheerier and lighter.

Darker and deeper greens represent stability, safety and wealth. Greens tend to work best in bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms and other spaces where you want to promote comfort and peace.

The calming light blue sky, the depths of the oceans, the sparkling lakes and streams – blue hues remind us of natural elements. This colour is often touted to have calming psychological effects and to slow

down respiration and blood pressure.

However, a pastel blue that reminds us of the clear sky can come across as unpleasantly cold on walls and furnishings. Light blues tend to work best in a room that receives ample natural light.

If that’s not possible, then balance the coolness within the blue with warm hues in furniture and fabrics.

Darker blues emit feelings of knowledge, power and trust and can work well as a dominant pigment in a space. Navy blue works best in home offices to evoke an air of professionalism.

Black absorbs all light on the colour spectrum and represents the absence of colour. Generally,

How Colours Can Make You Feel

Red is the warmest and most dynamic colour, and it can trigger emotions easily because of its boldness. While it can make you feel passionate and energised, it also has connotations of danger and anger. Red paint works best

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THE VISITOR October 2020 23

the colour black is associated with power, elegance and mystery, but it can lend different meanings in different contexts. For example, it can trigger emotions of fear and the unknown, or it can be used to create drama and elegance.

Black is best used in small doses to prevent a room from creating a dark and melancholy mood. Use black paint for showcasing accent pieces, highlighting other colours in the room and to give depth to your colour scheme.

Frenchic are toxin and solvent free, have no VOC's added, have no odour and are EN: 71-3 certified.

Frenchic Paint is available from £6.95 at www. frenchicpaint.co.uk and stockists nationwide. Follow on Instagram @frenchicpaint.

Recycling sites switch to winter hours on 1 October

Every one of Somerset’s 16 recycling sites will go over to their winter timetables from Thursday 1 October, with weekday opening hours of 9am to 5pm while weekends remain 9am to 4pm.

Summer hours - 9am-6pm when sites are open weekdays, 9am-4pm weekends - resume on Thursday 1 April 2021.

With an impressive average recycling rate of well over 77%, Somerset's recycling sites network is open every day of the year except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day to take dozens of materials.

For more information on each recycling site, including opening schedules. details of charged materials, and van and trailer permits, click on recycling centres

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The switch to winter hours starts at 9am on Thursday 1 October.

at somersetwaste.gov.uk.

To keep up to date with recycling sites, sign up for the SWP e-newsletter at somersetwaste.gov.uk and follow @Somersetwaste on Facebook or Twitter.

Revealed: How Much Longer Women Have to Save Before Buying a Home

Buying your first home can be a daunting goal due to the huge cost of getting onto the property ladder. But due to the gender pay gap, this can be even more so for women.

Onlinemortgageadvisor.co.uk were intrigued to discover just how much the gender pay gap in the UK affects women’s chances of buying their first home.

They analysed data to discover which full-time working women have it the toughest, and just how much longer they have to work

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than men in order to buy a home in the UK. So how much longer does the average working woman have to save for?

On average, full-time working women aged 30-39 earn £16.13 per hour whilst men earn £17.85 per hour; 10.68% more.

The average price of a home in the UK is £253,673, and the average first-time buyer pays an 18% deposit (£42,421.14), therefore women must work for 6 years, 9 months and 18 days whilst men work for 6 years, 1 month and 22 days to afford the 18% deposit - leaving the average full-time working woman to work for 7 months and 27 days longer to save for the required £42,421.14!

But how does this break down per industry? www.online mortgageadvisor.co.uk found that the biggest pay gap is 46.9%, with women working in carpentry and joining earning only £6.96 per hour, compared to their male counterparts who earn £13.10.

Due to this, female carpenters and joiners must work a whopping 7 years, 4 months and 19 days longer in order to save for their first home.

Female financial institution managers and directors place in second, with a huge 32.8% pay gap between men (£29.23 p/h) and women (£19.63 p/h). This difference in pay means that women working in this industry have to save for 1 year, 10 months and 1 day longer than men in the same job.

Women who work in the assembling of vehicle and metal goods have a 30.4% pay gap in the male-dominated industry, earning an average of £10.18 hourly. As male co-workers earn £14.63 per hour, women in the

know someone that has, with 7 percent of these incidents resulting in injury, according to new research into safe digging practices in the UK. On top of this, 21 percent of residents in the region have been severely disrupted by a key pipe or cable being mistakenly struck by someone else.

For some working in specific trades, the problem is even more severe, with more than two in five of the nation’s builders and 36 percent of farmers admitting to either striking a pipe or cable

themselves or knowing a colleague who has.

The study, commissioned by the nation’s leading underground mapping provider, www. lsbud.co.uk, found that 21 percent of people living in the South West don’t to check for underground pipes and cables before a spade or digger hits the ground.

This is quite an issue as more than half of Brits completed digging works in the last 12 months, and 52 percent plan to do some in the next year – ranging from tree planting (11

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same role must work for 3 years, 3 months and 10 days longer to afford the 18% deposit on their first home.

For the full breakdown of each job, please see the blog at: www.onlinemortgageadvisor .co.uk/blog/how-much-longer-dowomen-have-to-save-to-buy-ahome.

What about the femaledominated jobs?

held. However, among sales and retail assistants the gender pay gap stands at 4.4%, meaning they have to work for 6 months and 15 days more to afford a deposit.

South West Residents Tempting Fate By Digging Blind

One in five people in the South West have hit an underground pipe or cable whilst digging, or

Although women make up 79% of all jobs in the health and social services sector, their managers and directors earn 14.8% less than their male counterparts leaving women in this job to save for 8 months and 11 days longer.

The wholesale and retail trade are also popular among women, accounting for 14% of all jobs

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percent), fencing (12 percent) and renovation work (9 percent), through to building a shed and putting a patio in (both with 8 percent) and doing work to the driveway (7 percent). All this presents a significant risk.

Richard Broome, Managing Director at LSBUD, comments: ‘It is great to hear that 79 percent of people living in the South West

now search before they dig, because it means our vital safe digging message is getting through. The major worry for me is the remaining quarter or so of people who never search before digging. Given the huge amount of work people have been doing to their homes and gardens during lockdown, and still plan to do, the potential for injury or

worse, is very real.

‘For this reason, we decided to launch a National Safe Digging Week, running from Monday 21st to Sunday 27th September, to raise awareness around the subject of safe digging practices, and help keep even more people safe from avoidable accidents.

Remember, ‘Search Before You Dig’.

Questioned on why they aren’t performing searches, 30 percent of South West residents felt confident that pipes and cables were buried deeper than they

were digging. A further 14 percent didn’t know they needed to check, eight percent said it takes too long and five percent felt it would be expensive to check each time.

Richard continues: ‘The belief that pipes and cables are too deep under the land on our properties to be hit by a simple spade is one of the most common misconceptions that National Safe Digging Week wanted to dispel. It is simply not true. As for it taking too long to search, it takes less than two minutes to search on the completely free portal – that’s less time than it takes to make a cup of tea. Who doesn’t have two minutes spare to ensure the safety of themselves and others?’

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26 THE VISITOR October 2020

In addition to avoiding potentially life changing injuries, there are plenty of other reasons why people should do more to avoid hitting a pipe or cable.

The organisers of National Safe Digging Week argue all of this is completely avoidable if you search before you dig. Searching doesn’t mean asking neighbours, a method favoured by one in five, using metal detectors or checking the deeds of the house, all popular choices which are highly unreliable.

There’s also no need to spend money on an expert doing a survey. Simply go online to www.lsbud.co.uk and do a quick, 2-minute free check.

Richard concludes: ‘More than one in four people in the UK have been affected by a pipe or cable being damaged due to someone else’s mistake. Given the UK’s population of 67 million, that’s a huge number of lives disrupted, businesses damaged and, if injury has arisen, lives potentially changed forever.

It doesn’t need to be this way.

By using a free central information portal, the general public can have a detailed map of the pipes and cables beneath any selected area, showing them where to dig, and more importantly, where not to dig. In

less time than it takes to make a cuppa, and without spending a single penny, you - and your neighbours - can have complete peace of mind before sticking a spade in the ground. So, no matter how small the job, search before you dig.’

For more information, visit www.linesearchbeforeudig.co. uk/national-safe-digging-week.

Homemaker, Shaftesbury and Warminster

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so creating an attractive, comfortable and particularly welcoming space is paramount.

Your kitchen can be a hub and

a haven; a place to cook for family and friends, chat over coffee, relax with an evening glass of wine, and for children to do their homework after a busy day at school.

Established in 1992, Homemaker are a family run independent kitchen designer, offering outstanding customer service and competitive prices.

From contemporary and bold colours to the more traditional painted finishes, they are here to help you choose the kitchen that best suits your requirements and style. A personal and bespoke service is offered by the highly skilled and experienced

in-house team who love helping you create your perfect kitchen, from the initial vision to the installation.

Homemaker supply a wide range of cookers and appliances from leading manufacturers such as Bosch, Hoover, Belling, Smeg and Samsung amongst many others and also offer a fast and efficient delivery service, usually within 24 hours from stock.

You can find further details instore and on their website at www.myhomemaker.co.uk. You can also call 01747 851 476 for the Shaftesbury branch or 01985 219200 for the Warminster branch. The Shaftesbury branch has a large free car park.

Iconic 50s style range cookers and fridges from Smeg are available at Homemaker.

THE VISITOR October 2020 27

The

Pub Pages

BE E R & SK ITTLE S P. A. BAXTER ALWAYS READ THE SMALL PRINT! We're told this so often, and recently as I made a purchase from eBay (other auction sites are available) I did not do this very thing. It may explain why what I received was not exactly what I expected. What was this purchase you may ask?

Funnily enough, a book on pub games, the second offering from Timothy Finn, being namely ‘Pub Games of England’. I failed to see ‘it may not have a dust jacket’ in the small print, (although it had one on the heading picture).

Well I guess I did get it at a bargain price! However, on opening the book I was pleased to discover it was a signed copy.

So, if you are a pub games enthusiast, I'll be delighted to let you have it for free and for nothing, providing your name is ‘Allan’, that is ... email me at the address below.

The title of my monthly offering comes from a quote of old, and as

'Renowned for his contribution to the game, Wally Walters discusses the finer points of skittle manufacture as Arthur Taylor makes notes for his forthcoming book'.

we advance in our years we certainly realise that life is not all ‘Beer and Skittles’. How about ‘Skittles and Beer’ though?

Discovering that there is no specific book regarding the beloved game, Arthur Taylor set about a labour of love researching the detail of the game and its development throughout millenia.

The name of Arthur Taylor is no stranger to these columns as his last book Played at the Pub is constantly promoted here as essential reading for anyone who loves pub games, or has even stepped inside our wonderful hostelries. In part of his research travel Mr.Taylor met with Derek ‘Wally’ Walters, a man who has contributed so very much to the game in so many different ways.

During this visit, Arthur stayed at the ‘Rose and Crown’ in Bradford Abbas to witness ‘skittles at a grass-roots level’.

Due to life and its challenges a

'Arthur Taylor and Mary Ashby, landlady of the Rose and Crown Bradford Abbas, have a few spins on the Dorset version of the ancient Norfolk pub game 'Twister'.

28 THE VISITOR October 2020

few years have passed since this visit, but I am assured that progress is being made and I'm delighted to say I have been privy to some of the content, and look forward to seeing the completed tome. A delivery from the Great Bearded One perhaps?

Steam engines and real ale seem to go hand in hand for some inexplicable reason, and as a member of the Westonzoyland Engine Trust, I'd like to briefly mention their latest publication, which reports on the use of steam power in breweries. Society president Iain Miles presents details of those in the South West that utilised steam power, and his article is illustrated with photographs and line drawings.

Even if one has but a passing interest in the subject, a visit to the Trust is a fine family day out where numerous pumps can be seen working. There's a quiz for the children, a chance for them to have a blast on a steam whistle(!) and even a short train ride. Highly recommended. Let's hope 2021 offers us a chance to visit again.

The latest restrictions thrust upon us by the Government over the present situation have a devastating effect on all businesses, and in the licensed trade, tough at the best of times.

Despite this, some are in a position to innovate and I heartily congratulate Rob and Mat at the ‘Kings Arms’ in Thornford, who now accept the CAMRA tokens for 50p off a pint of real ale! Rob says ‘As CAMRA members we realised there was nowhere in this area that can accept the tokens other than Wetherspoons.

We also figured it's hard enough for our customers right now, and

from our prospective, although we lose on this deal we hope we can win customers for the long term. We pride ourselves on our fare and our regulars appreciate this’. Meanwhile, I look forward to my first pint of the evening at the ‘Kings Arms’ being less than three quid - when was the last time we had one at that price!

To recap, CAMRA members have had 50p tokens for Wetherspoons for some years, and the total value now expanded to £30 per annum means one can even ‘profit’ from the membership. It also includes real cider and real perry when available. The scheme has been extended to other pub groups but the nearest to the Visitor area are Bridgwater, Weymouth or Bristol. Full details are on the CAMRA website as well as the terms and conditions which are very specific, and remember ALWAYS READ THE SMALL PRINT! © P.A. Baxter 2020. skittlealley@hotmail.com

Recognition for Badger Beer in 2020 World Beer Awards

Badger Beer receives five accolades in the 2020 World Beer Awards, celebrating the brand’s well-loved taste which originates back to 1777. Locally brewed, Badger Beer, has been announced as the UK country winner for ‘The Golden Champion’ in the Pale Beer category at the 2020 World Beer Awards.

Four other beers by the Blandford-based brewer have also been recognised for great taste.

‘Twice Tangled’ was awarded silver in the IPA category while ‘The Cranborne Poacher’ took

They Say

The

Pub

That according to Mrs Mo Cutler of South Petherton, Don’t Forget is an easily forgettable title for a book, especially if you’re reading it on a kindle.

Pages

Locally brewed, Badger Beer, has been announced as the UK country winner for ‘The Golden Champion’ in the Pale Beer category at the 2020 World Beer Awards.

home bronze in the Flavoured category. ‘The Blandford Fly’ ale achieved bronze in the Favoured Herb and Spice category, and one of the brewer’s most historic beers, ‘The Fursty Ferret’, was also awarded bronze in the Pale Beer category.

Toby Heasman, Head Brewer at Hall & Woodhouse, said: ‘We are delighted to see so many of our beers recognised in this year’s World Beer Awards, notably ‘The Golden Champion’ has been nationally celebrated as being among some of the UK’s best beers.

‘As we approach our 250th anniversary as a brewer, it’s encouraging to see Badger Beer continuing to be recognised for its great tasting pints. Expertise and knowledge of the brewing craft has been passed through the Woodhouse family from generation to generation, and these awards are testament to the dedication to quality that is shown by the entire Hall & Woodhouse team.’

The World Beer Awards select the best in recognised beer through a prestigious tasting and judging process.

Vinny doesn’t want the pub to close again

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 12 1) 'McFly' 2) 'Honeybus' 3) 'Steely Dan' 4) Four 5) Jimmy Page 6) Gordon Haskell 7) 'Roses' 8) 'How Long' – Ace 9) 'Forget You' – CeeLo Green 10) Ringo

Hall & Woodhouse is an independent company that brews award winning Badger Ales and runs an estate of high-quality pubs in the south of England.

The family-owned brewery uses only the finest ingredients, with every Badger Beer being inspired by the Dorset countryside, resulting in a diverse and characterful range of beers.

Badger Beer is available at key retailers, as well as in Hall & Woodhouse’s public houses across the south of England. For more information on the award winning Badger Beers, please visit www.badger beers.com and find your nearest Hall & Woodhouse pub via www.hallwoodhouse.co.uk.

That friendly, obliging staff and a loud voice is necessary when out buying bananas on a Sunday morning, for Queen Camel’s Mr Christopher White.

That a Castle Cary golfer has taken as his middle name that of a former President of the Soviet Union and he is now known by his chums as Kevan ‘Gobbychev’ Davis.

That it was nice to hear from exWestland employee Woody Woodpecker this month, who reminded us of the good ol’days when the likes of Chicken George and Mad Mike featured regularly in this column.

That phenomenal flying tents were just one of the hazards to endure for Stephen ‘Gripper’ Collings of Ansford, during his inaugural attempt at camping.

That when in the county of Devon recently, North Cadbury’s Dave ‘Hoddaz’ Hoddinott became a ‘dumpling’.

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

Solution to September

Sudoku

This month's Bonus Question: 'Goat's Head Soup' THE VISITOR October 2020 29

Luca's New Garden with Bridget Sudworth IF OCTOBER is the middle month of Autumn, then Keats poem springs to mind - ‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’ indeed. It suggests great peace, order and gentle pursuits that fit the harvest from the garden which, during these extremely turbulent times, is greatly beneficial to the soul. Gardens can provide such solace - there have been so many times recently

Pears are ready for picking at the start of October.

when turning one’s back on the world is necessary.

The one element, however, we can do nothing about is the weather and most gardeners must be weather watchers. After rain and drought, we had the mighty wind which flattened our runner beans most spectacularly and beyond repair as the roots were wrenched up too so that was that. The sweet peas followed!

Looking forward to a more ordered time with perhaps more predictable weather patterns is maybe rather optimistic but still gives one hope!

The future lies in planning and although Luca doesn’t yet know it, his garden will increase in size as we are overgrown with shrubs that keep light from the house and garden. This will open up spaces that are cluttered with overgrowth from the landscaping scheme of 23 years ago. Apart from giving a better chance for really lovely things to grow better like Daphne Odorata and Exochorda, the dashing-roundin-circles exercise he most enjoys will give Luca greater space.

Drastic pruning can be a sober reminder that gardens do not stand still for five minutes and although one may plan for things to be thus and thus, it isn’t the case at all.

Making plans for winter is always exciting and big ideas lurk into view. Space is always useful

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as a first step so the October jobs will include the cutting back and division of those perennials that are trying to do a take-over bid.

I love to see Monty Don slicing brutally but confidently through great clumps of agapanthus (the African lily) and plonking lumps of them into a big hole which you know will produce wonderful blooms the following year. So annoying! Once you have space, however, then replanting can continue and will include the sensible choices for ordering next year should there be space for new blood. Get your bulb orders in now otherwise you will miss out on first choices.

At last, shrubs can be really trimmed. Here, a vast buddleia has been decapitated but there are already new shoots coming plus a great deal more light on a small rock garden beneath that was totally overshadowed.

Climbing roses can be cut back now and there are still seeds to collect as well as the leaf fall

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

which can be bagged up in old compost sacks, tied up, holes punctured in the sides and stored in a quiet corner of the garden for next year’s mulch. Amazing how many worms there can be when you tip it up on your veggie plot!

Roses. My absolute favourites.

So tough, so uncomplaining, so stunningly beautiful, so long suffering. David Austin is always my first choice and buying bare root is the most economic way to purchase them as well as giving you the full choice. November is the month for planting them giving them a good chance for winter rains to settle those roots.

Scent has to be the priority for me - everybody sticks their noses into roses and if they don’t have scent, then a sense of disappointment ensues.

To mention just a few, the most delicious Celsiana is an old tart of a rose much loved by the Romans or The Apothecary’s Rose ( Rosa Gallica Officinalis, the original Red Rose of Lancashire), known for its fragrance that hid the smells of ague, Souvenir of Dr Jamain discovered by Vita Sackville West growing in the corner of the ruins of Sissinghurst Castle or the climber Blairii No 2, an historic old rose outrageously beautiful will all bring delight. The list is endless, there is a rose for every place in

the garden and the Austin website gives much information.

There are even roses recommended for being thornless for all those hapless gardeners who have to shin up a ladder to prune them!

Luca and I have greatly enjoyed our walks in Haddon Wood watching the sweet changes in the Spindle bushes (Euonymous Europaeus) planted there. Worth planting if you have a space along a hedgerow for their lovely performance in Autumn when the little fat pink pincushion berries appear to

adorn the branches and provide an unexpected freshness to Autumn colours.

Disaster struck the purple sprouting with savaging from the cabbage whites. I am now pioneering a Very Important trial of hacking off the chewed leaves, moving the whole plant to a more airy position, staking, watering and crossing fingers for a renaissance next Spring!

The only answer is, of course, a soft fruit cage over the whole veggie garden but who knows, we may strike lucky next year.

Watch this space!

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Remember when ...

30 years ago from The Visitor archives A beefy concern

ONE OF the main health worries of 1990 was Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) – commonly called Mad Cow Disease – and the chances of humans catching it. ‘Is beef really safe or should it be withdrawn from butchers’ shops and supermarket counters because it is a hazard to health?’ the Visitor wondered. It was able to assure readers that ‘there is no scientific evidence that BSE can spread to humans and there is a great deal of research underway to try and establish whether it can or cannot be transmitted to any other species’. But it warned that ‘there is still plenty of scope for speculation and the scaremongers have a field day because predictions of human infection create more headlines’. The writer confirmed that he would ‘still be eating English and Scotch beef’ and could see ‘no reason to restrict my intake on health grounds, other than obesity!’

Changing face of the High Street

A splendid photograph of Gillingham in the October 1990 Visitor caught my eye. Taken from what was the approach road to the former Town Mill (and is now the entrance to the car park), it’s a view westwards down the High Street towards The Square.

Prominent on the left in the foreground is a large three-storey building erected in 1840 as the Grosvenor Arms, but by 1990 it had long ceased to be a pub and was occupied by Osmond’s d-i-y and houseware store. It was demolished in 1996 and the wide gap today provides pedestrian access to Town Meadow and pleasant views towards the river and the Waitrose store - a green lung in the heart of the town.

Relief in Gillingham

The Gillingham article opened by stating that ‘preparatory work for the Gillingham Relief Road has begun, and tender contracts are out. Construction of the road will start in November 1990 and the road is scheduled to open in May 1992.’ This surprised me because I thought I remembered it being opened sometime in the 1980s, so I consulted John Porter’s history of Gillingham and found conflicting information.

On page 44 he states that ‘in the 32 THE VISITOR October 2020

1990s the town underwent several new developments, notably the construction of the relief road’ but on page 421 says that ‘the long-anticipated relief road of Le Neubourg Way was finally opened in 1989’, a year he also mentions on page 412. In contrast a resident of The Square, in a letter published in the next issue of the Visitor, states ‘I do not see the proposed new road in the light of a “relief for all” but as an expensive temporary measure in view of the rapid rise in population and the non-stop build-up of traffic’. If you can remember when the road opened and have documentary evidence to prove it, we’d love to hear from you.

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Nuts in Mere

Of Mere’s three remaining pubs the most recent is the Walnut Tree, a 21st century hostelry fronting a modern housing estate on the edge of town on the road to Motcombe. The building it replaced was featured in the October 1990 Visitor to celebrate the completion of extensive renovations. ‘The whole building has been rewired and central heating installed throughout, and two en-suite letting rooms with colour TV and coffee/tea-making facilities are now available,’ it reported, adding that ‘the main bar has been completely redecorated and refurbished with new access to the dining area’ and a fully-equipped kitchen provided. Standing high on a bank above the road, this ‘old’ Walnut Tree was neither particularly old nor of any great architectural merit – it was built in the late 1930s in the style of the period to replace the original pub which dated from around 1840 if not earlier. It was certainly popular with drinkers and skittlers from that area of the town but was demolished barely 15 years after its renovation.

Christmas comes early

Christmas was a mere 12 weeks away when the October Visitor hit the streets. That’s around 85 days – but in 1990, as now, many pubs and hotels were already informing readers of their seasonal offerings, with the Unicorn at Somerton claiming that ‘Christmas is just round the corner’. Prices for a three-course pre-Christmas dinner ranged from £7.50 to £9.50.

Roger Richards.

The Visitor

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Daves Tools, Est. 1989. Tel: 01935 428975

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

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

For Sale

CLASSICAL AND JAZZ LP RECORDS: CDs also considered. Tel: 01458 834102 / 07704229979 / email: tonyartony @aol.com

ERCOL dark oak table & chairs with cushions £75, ERCOL dark oak Welsh dresser medium size £75. Tel 01458 223514

PETROL OR DIESEL GENERATORS. Any make/model, we collect in any area.

Top prices paid in cash. Tel: 07970 742471

Storage STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles.

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

Services HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN RUBBISH CLEARED, old sheds / outbuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844 YOUR ADVERT HERE, from £5 for 20 words. Email: info@thevisitor magazine.co.uk or tel: 01963 351256

Prize Crossword No. 407 Set by Frank Butler

19

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, fP.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BP – to arrive by Friday 16th October.

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.

Damian Hoddinott PLUMBING SERVICES Competitive rates for all your plumbing needs

01963 441232 07971 676111

Across: 1. Asian river test used in factories [10] 6. Knife Street sailor [4] 9. Plot? Tories meet crime on the high seas [10] 10. Three break up riot [4] 12. Some mob, lurking in the dark, lacks clarity [4] 13. Foresee a lead hook [4-5] 15. 19 down. Heat wired bundle, stirred to reveal cheering colours [3, 5, 3, 4] 16. Keep quiet about last book, etc., outlined quickly [6] 18. Point and wait for appearance of clear night sky [6] 20. Nautical crustacean in Norfolk village with farm building [8] 23. Clothed again to have put right [9] 24. Nothing resulting from prize rotter [4] 26. Flee with nut? [4] 27. Undressed and taken apart! [10] 28. River, river, animals [4] 29. Don’t move! Holy man and Holy man not well! [10] Down: 1. Part of foot partly in church [4] 2. Hung first door crooked [7] 3. Surged around rod with a hot-rod engine? [12] 4. In the country where confused trail lies between Rugby and part of York [8]

5. Branch organisation holding means of holding [6] 7. People in the wrong in extreme pain [7] 8. Covers double bed with quality newspaper? [10] 11. ‘Z!’ Peak snoring disturbed waiting areas! [7 - 5] 14. On doctor’s orders, writer in soft red [10] 17. Hymn, and a confused odd-jobber [8] 19. See 15 across 21. Composing Italian with French horn, has Amercian overheard at a distance in China [7] 22. Help fool first [6] 25. Statue sounds lazy [4]

Solution to Crossword 406

Winner of the September Crossword Was Colin Francis of Yeovil who chose to spend the £10 voucher at Buttercross Tearooms, Somerton.

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH SOS TO ALL AIR RIFLES AND PISTOLS, ANY MAKE OR MODEL WE COLLECT IN ANY AREA, TOP PRICES PAID IN CASH

07970 742471 34 THE VISITOR October 2020