The Visitor Magazine Issue 481 December 2023

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

Issue 481 December 2023

Your

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antomime season is with us again. For many young children it is their introduction to the wondrous world of the theatre, to the spectacle of a folksy story colourfully enacted with great humour, with song and dance and audience participation. It’s magic, whether it’s an amateur production in the village hall or the big professional one staged at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil. This year the legendary Octagon panto is ‘Cinderella’, and it’s being staged in the Westlands Ballroom as the theatre is currently closed for much-needed improvements.

Sadly the majority of the younger generation leave the theatre after the pantomime and don’t set foot inside again until their own children are old enough to appreciate ‘Cinderella’. Which must be a worry for Octagon manager Adam Burgan – and should be a worry to anyone who thinks that the performing arts, in all their glorious diversity, have an essential role to play in a civilised society. Some would argue that ‘theatre’ is not essential and that market forces, not subsidy, should determine its provision. But most appear to agree that money should be given to help the theatre provide what market forces do not. The aim is not to make and distribute a cash profit but to enhance the cultural life of the local community.

The disagreements arise when it comes to defining ‘local community’ and ‘culture’.

Do a succession of ‘tribute bands’ and stand-up comedians enhance the cultural life of our local community? Undeniably these shows pack the theatre, the audiences come away happy and the profits help to underwrite the costs of less popular performances. But is ‘light entertainment’ sufficient justification for subsidising the wondrous world of the theatre? These are the issues our councillors should be debating.

The Octagon, Visitorland’s principal local theatre, has consumed a lot of public money over the years for its conversion from the Johnson Hall into a theatre and its

extensive refurbishment, and requires an annual subsidy to keep it going. But the current ambitious plans to improve its backstage facilities, enlarge its auditorium and provide more rooms for community arts use have stalled in the face of unanticipated inflation and rising construction costs at a time when Somerset Council is faced with a huge budget deficit.

The planned improvements are designed to enable the Octagon to attract highquality performers and stage full-scale plays and musicals, to cater for larger audiences and to involve the local community in the performing arts. But they will come at a cost that has rocketed since first being drawn up.

Our local councillors now face difficult decisions. But the theatre is undeniably popular so any politician arguing for a significant cut or the total withdrawal of the subsidy could be courting electoral unpopularity if the outcome were a massive increase in ticket prices, smaller audiences and ultimate closure.

NN.

PO Box 5522, Castle Cary Somerset BA9 0BP Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine x.com/thevisitormag Editor Max Dunion Advertising Kerry Edwards Julie Horn Managing Director Helen Dunion © The Visitor Ltd. 2023

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

CONTENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED ‑ 42 ANTIQUES ‑ 17

Advertising Deadlines

CARY’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER ‑ 12

Christmas/January Issue Deadline: 11th Dec Published: 19th Dec

CHRISTMAS IN SOMERTON ‑ 20

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE ‑ 24 CROSSWORD ‑ 42 FESTIVE VENUES & MENUS ‑ 11 GARDENING ‑ 34 GOLDEN YEARS ‑ Care for the Elderly ‑ 18 HOUSE & HOME ‑ 30 LEISURE ‑ 31 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ‑ 4 LOOKING GOOD ‑ 17 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES ‑ 6 MOTORING ‑ 16 NOTICE BOARD ‑ 31 PHONE‑A‑FIRM ‑ 41 POP QUIZ ‑ 31 PUBS ‑ 38

NOTE TO ADVERTISERS

Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as printed on our rate card, available upon request.

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

REMEMBER WHEN ‑ 40 SPIRIT OF GLASTONBURY ‑ 22 SUDOKU ‑ 31 THEY SAY ‑ 39 WINCANTON AT CHRISTMAS ‑ 28 WINE & DINE ‑ 36 Cartoons by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR December 2023 3

I Wish I Were a Celebrity (Or Not!)

Sir, Christmas is approaching with its 21st Century lack of visiting carol singers, greetings cards and what was once a national readiness to celebrate Christianity and renew, and enjoy, our long established faith - whilst quietly respecting the faiths of others.

What we do not lack however are over-opinionated and often grossly uninformed 'celebrities' and what an abominable word that has become.

We have sports commentators, game show hosts and fashion models beyond number who feel

they have the right to voice their widely received opinions on matters - no matter how serious and dangerous - from the comfort of their grossly inflated incomes and unwarranted status as, yes, 'celebrities'.

Due to our country's bizarre fascination with such people there are many who accept these often uneducated but loudly proclaimed opinions as fact whilst turning away from the grim realities of modern conflict, extremist views and terrorism, yet alone starvation and poverty much of which we have in unspoken abundance in our own country.

What would I like for Christmas?

Well, I'd love to see a return to traditional values, a genuine love for our fellow men, women and children, a recognition of our nation's achievements rather than a tirade of misplaced criticisms about our history and I'd love to see an end to the ludicrous over promotion of socalled 'celebrities' who'd do far more good by either keeping quiet or going forth and getting their hands dirty - like real helpers and supporters of the less fortunate actually do!

May sanity, goodwill and sheer decency return to us all in absolute abundance.

A R Middleton-Snead Castle Cary

Climate change research

Sir, There is a bewildering stream of publicity regarding climate change and emergency. However the public are being shielded from the findings of several hundred research papers published in leading and lesser well known scientific journals. Briefly the more important results are, namely the cause-effect relationship of temperature and carbon dioxide; the temperature record since the end of the last ice age; the changes in flood frequency in the Upper Brue valley and the Upper Stour, and the causes of big bushfires in Australia.

During the last interglacial period the level of Co2 declined by about 120 parts per million (ppm) while the global temperature dropped by about 3 deg C. Since there was little if any burning of fossil fuel, an explanation for the change in Co2 level is called for. The original work by Barnola and co-workers (Nature 329, 408-414) showed a very strong statistical relationship between temperature and Co2, so that the cause at least in part of the temperature changes was clear. However, more detailed work led by Petit (Nature 1999, 399, 429-436) and Staufer (Nature 1998, 392, 5962) showed that the rise in temperature came before that of Co2. A time lag of 800 +/- 200 years was reported so that the cause effect relationship is the opposite of that being widely promoted today. The causal mechanism is that the rate of decay of organic matter which produces Co2 and other gases, is strongly related to air Have your say: Christmas/January deadline11th Dec

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temperature. During the start of a glacial period plant growth and decay are reduced so that the surface area in which these processes take place declines.

During deglaciation the sequence of events is reversed, but as you might expect it takes time for plants to become established from sub artic flora to mature forest, and then extend southwards.

Hence the Co2 climate change hypothesis is largely refuted.

Changes in global temperature during the past 10,000 years were reported by Rosenthal and coworkers (Science, 2014, 1282-1286). The Medieval Warm Period had a similar temperature to today, while during the Post Glacial Climatic Optimum the temperature was about 2 deg C warmer than the present.

Before it was demolished the Town Mill in Gillingham had a stone that marked the height of floods from the river Shreen going back to 1768. In order of flood depth these were:: 1882, 1768, 1900, 1809, and 1917. The 1982 flood was just below the 1882 level. On the adjoining river Brue the flood record goes back to 1726 and the League Table of floods: 1768, 1917, 1882, 1726, 1982, 1888, 1968 and 1900 (Weather, 2014, 249-253). With this length of record a more robust idea of

the changing frequency of floods can be produced.

Four years ago Australia suffered some of its worst bush fires. The cause was reckoned to be climate change, but careful analysis of the incidence of warm weather, rainfall and the all important factor of time gave a different story (Journal of Geoscience and Environment.

Protection. 2020, 79-94). Before British colonisation of Australia Captain Cook noted in his journal the presence of many small fires, deliberately started by the Native Australians. They served two purposes. The first was as a means of hunting food; the second to keep open spaces for grazing animals. Consequently there was no big build up of bark and leaf litter, thereby preventing large scale fires. When Henry Bunbury visited Australia in the 1840’s he saw how the cessation of these practices quickly led to the spread of scrub, snakes and the build up of wood bark and other flammable material. Prior to this Australia was the biggest wildlife park in the world, managed by the oldest civilisation on Earth.

Before your readers put pen to paper I suggest that they read the papers mentioned above and some on the list that I have sent the Editor and on The Visitor

website. Readers are welcome to get in touch with me via The Visitor. For some reason much of the contents of this letter will be unknown to many of your readers. I declare no competing interests or financial gain.

Dr Colin Clark colin4chrs@hotmail.com Dr Clark has over 40 years’ research experience in hydrometeorology. His work has influenced Government policy in England and India. For a list of Climate sensitivity and other papers visit: www.thevisitor magazine.co.uk/researchpapers.

Thank you from a Castle Cary Poppy Seller

Sir, I would like to thank everyone who kindly donated to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2023. Your generosity and kindness is very much appreciated.

With special thanks to Elsie and the Cooper & Tanner team for supplying coffee, also the people who offered coffee during my sessions selling Poppies.

Hope to see you next year.

Fore Street Poppy Seller www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

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THE VISITOR December 2023 5

Mentioned in

Dispatches The Triangle Trust Christmas Bazaar 2nd December

THE TRIANGLE TRUST is holding its Christmas Bazaar on Saturday 2nd December from 11am-2pm at Stoke Sub Hamdon Memorial Hall, TA14 6PR. Gifts and craft stalls, tombola, raffle and refreshments. For more info or to book a table contact Lindsay Clayton on 07774 646401.

Proceeds in aid of the Triangle Trust purchasing medical equipment to support patients at Hamdon Medical Centre.

6 THE VISITOR December 2023

Table Top Sale 9th December

Norton Sub Hamdon Village Hall TA14 6SF is holding a Table Top Sale on Saturday 9th December from 10am-1pm. Sort out your unwanted items, sell them on or buy something new. Tables are £10. To book a table please contact Jennie Harris 01935 881718. Proceeds to Hall redecorating fund.

Christmas Fayre in aid of Church Funds

There will be a Christmas Fayre on Saturday 16 December at the Marion Hall, The Avenue, Yeovil from 11am-2pm. Entrance Free.

Big raffle, bottles, craft items, books, vintage and bric-a-brac, cakes, tombola and more. All proceeds for church funds. Please contact Marlene on 01935 881563.

Sherborne Classic and Supercars Show presenting a cheque for £55,000.

Classic Car Show raises a massive £55,000!

Sherborne Classic and Supercars Show recently celebrated a hugely successful event at Sherborne Castle by presenting cheques totalling £55,000 to many local charities, including Yeovil Hospital Charity, Children’s Air Ambulance and Somerset Sight.

Volunteers from Rotary, Lions, Round Table and Friends of Sherborne Classic Car Show put in countless hours of time which resulted in a hugely successful event, attended by an estimated 10,000 members of the public.

Rory O’Donnell, chairman of the organising committee, said, “This event shows the power of

collaboration between voluntary organisations and we are delighted to support many worthwhile charities with the funds raised. We are also indebted to the major sponsors, wealth management firm Atkins Ferrie, exhibitors, members of the public who supported us, and to Mr and Mrs Digby, who shared their beautiful home and grounds creating the perfect backdrop to the eclectic mix of vehicles. There really was something for everyone at the event – from ‘petrol-heads’ to families - and we are already ‘revving up’ for 2024’s show at the castle, on 21st July 2024.”

For further details on 2024’s car show, visit www.classicsupercars.co.uk.

Mentioned in

Dispatches An Illuminated Christmas season at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells

Visitors to The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells will once again be celebrating the magic of the Christmas season this December with garden Illuminations, festive decorations, workshops, Father and Mother

Christmas, music and delicious food on offer.

The rooms of the medieval Palace building will be decked out in their Christmas finery with seasonal foliage from the Palace gardens creating stunning adornments to complement the historic interiors. Visitors to the Entrance Hall will be greeted with a roaring fire and invited to explore the rooms of the Palace, which will also include the return of the popular local Schools EcoExhibition.

Outside visitors can explore the magical inner gardens which will be illuminated with festive decorations and lights during

special late-night openings including 1st (Member’s Only), 2nd, 3rd, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st December. The Illuminations begin at 3.30pm until 7.30pm on those dates, with the last entry at 7pm.

The Glastonbury Male Voice Choir will also be on hand to entertain visitors at a Christmas Carol Concert within the beautifully decorated thirteenth-

century Chapel on Tuesday 5th December (6.30pm) and creative types may be tempted by two festive workshops – Folk Carols on Saturday 9th December and Wreath Making on Sunday 10th December.

Storytellers will be sprinkling some Christmas magic with festive tales and seasonal stories on 8th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd December. Great for big and little kids alike, no booking is required.

Celebrate the magic of the Christmas season at The Bishops Palace.

THE VISITOR December 2023

7

Mentioned in

Dispatches Entrance to all events and activities (excluding the concert and workshops) is included with any standard admission to The Bishop’s Palace which allows for 12 months of return visits on any normal sightseeing day. More details at www.bishops palace.org.uk.

Stanchester Quire Christmas Carol Concerts

The Stanchester Quire will be performing Concerts of old Christmas Carols that have either been collected from, or written about, the South West of England, at South Petherton, Holnest Nr. Sherborne, Thorncombe, Nr, Chard, and

8 THE VISITOR December 2023

Quire at Cheap Street Methodist Church 16th December 2022.

Leigh, Nr. Sherborne,(tbc), throughout December. For more details please email: philwithsweets@hotmail.com or visit stanchesterquire.org.

New woodland to commemorate the late Queen Elizabeth II

The National Trust team at Kingston Lacy has collaborated with Trees for Dorset, a local conservation charity, to create a woodland to commemorate the life of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The Major Oak. Image: Edward Parker.

Ninety-six oak trees were planted – one for each year of the Queen’s life – at Shapwick, Dorset on Saturday 18 November.

The oaks were supplied by Trees for Dorset and grown by Rosie and John Palmer from second-generation acorns collected by them from the Major Oak in Sherwood Forest. This iconic tree, which is between 8001,000 years old, was voted Woodland Trust’s Tree of the Year in 2014.

Residents of Shapwick were invited to come together with National Trust staff and

volunteers, and volunteers from Trees for Dorset to plant the oaks and sign a commemorative book that will be sent to King Charles III. Eleanor Egan, Countryside Manager at Kingston Lacy, said: “We were delighted to be able to make this land available. We have some pretty big treeplanting ambitions at Kingston Lacy, we are planning to plant more than 9,000 trees next year, because of the importance of trees not only as a source of food and shelter for wildlife but as a means of locking up atmospheric carbon.

THE VISITOR December 2023 9

Mentioned in

Dispatches “But trees also carry huge emotional importance, and we hope these saplings will develop into a woodland that will be enjoyed by many generations to come.”

Rachel Palmer, former chair at Trees for Dorset (trees fordorset.co.uk) and responsible for thousands of trees being planted across Dorset, said: “In the words of Richard St.Barbe Baker, founder of the International Tree Foundation from which Trees for Dorset

sprang, this prestigious planting is a real ‘togetherness effort’, with the National Trust providing land, care, planters and expertise, Trees for Dorset providing the trees, expertise and planters, and Dorset County Council providing protection for the trees. Planters and volunteers who come from across Dorset will be able to sign the lovely commemorative book.”

The woodland will be a community amenity and extended next year with further planting of orchard and woodland trees.

Experience the magic of Christmas at Stourhead this winter

As autumn fades, a touch of festive magic comes to life at Stourhead as the team begin their task of preparing for a

People enjoying the trail, Christmas at Stourhead. Image: Sony Music.

season full of festive Christmas activities.

Enjoy a magical visit to Stourhead this winter season.

The beautifully decorated house reopened on the 24 November and the schedule of festive events began.

Visitors are able to wander through the Palladian mansion, complete with twinkling lights, beautifully decorated trees, seasonal wreaths, and floral arrangements. The grand rooms will be open to explore, each with its own historical festive theme inspired by the history, nature, and beauty of Stourhead.

On selected dates Stourhead is also hosting wreath-making workshops, led by a professional

Christmas in the House, Stourhead. National Trust Images/ Betsy Ogilvie.

10 THE VISITOR December 2023

florist in a relaxing and creative environment. Visitors can enjoy a festive nibble, or two, along with a glass of mulled wine whilst creating a beautiful winter wreath to take home. Everything needed to create a beautiful wreath will be provided, including materials from Stourhead.

For those with younger families, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a winter story read by Father Christmas in his magical grotto. For those visiting Father Christmas, the Stableyard will also be hosting some cosy Christmas crafts, led by the helpful elf-volunteers. Children will then ‘jingle all the way’ up the drive on hobby-reindeer before joining the jolly man in red for a special story.

Make unforgettable memories at the sell-out after dark lights trail: Christmas at Stourhead.

Wander through a sea of sparkling lights, gaze at giant glowing baubles, and enjoy a festive treat from a food stand.

Visit www.nationaltrust .org.uk/visit/wiltshire/stourhead/ festive-fun-at-stourhead to find out more.

Festive Venues & Menus

Festive Venues & Menus

Your hosts, Mick and Garry welcome you to

The MUDDLED MAN Lower Street, West Chinnock Tel: 01935 881235

Open throughout Christmas and New Year

Christmas Menu

Christmas Day – Limited Space Traditional Boxing Day – All DAY Buffet Curry Special – Thursday 28th December (evening)

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Festive Venues & Menus

Wishing all our customers old and new a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

• Festive Venues & Menus

Festive Venues & Menus

 Booking essential   www.themuddledmaninn.co.uk 

Festive Venues & Menus. •

Festive Venues & Menus

Festive Venues & Menus

Festive Venues & Menus

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Festive Venues & Menus

Cary’s Christmas Cracker

Join in the fun at Cary’s Christmas Cracker on THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER FROM 5.30PM. Enjoy late night shopping in our high street shops, buy wonderful gifts at the craft stalls at The White Hart, support our local charities and

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

organisations on their street stalls, sample mulled wine, mulled cider, beers, soft drinks and eat burgers, bacon baps, hog roasts, pizzas, mince pies and more.

Watch the Primary School children parade with Drum corps, see the majorettes perform, listen to the Wincanton Silver Band, dance with the Morris Men, sing with Chapel Cross choir and of course visit Father Christmas at The Market House.

So much for everyone, so do not miss this wonderful annual town event.

Please note various roads throughout the town will be closed from 4.00pm to 9.30pm.

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

12 THE VISITOR December 2023

If you haven't discovered them yet, this rather lovely arts & crafts gallery and gift shop is located in the Old Bank House at the top of the High Street in Castle Cary. As well as being the home of the Fosse Beads collection of handmade porcelain & silver beads and jewellery, it

Inside Fosse Beads & Friends.

is also a showcase for a carefully curated range of exceptional handmade arts & crafts by British artists, designers and makers, most of whom are local or West Country-based.

Fosse Beads & friends is a

bright, welcoming space in Castle Cary, filled with beautiful examples of applied artwork and crafts, including ceramics, glass, jewellery, leatherwork, wirework, printmaking, textiles, woodwork, and home scents. If you enjoy and

admire original and skilfully made cards, decorations and gifts, then give them a visit.

To encourage you to shop local this Christmas, FB&F will have extended opening hours during December - see their window and website for details, and late night opening on 7th December for Cary's Christmas Cracker event.

If you can't make it in person, you can also support and shop with them online: www.foss ebeadsandfriends.uk.

Rich’s Auto Services

Rich’s Auto Services would like to thank their customers and wish everyone a Happy Christmas and New Year.

They will be having a wellearned break and look forward to see you again from mid-January.

Welcome to Miah’s Castle

Don’t like sprouts? Then spice up your festive season with a curry.

Christmas party bookings are now being taken for that special family gathering, catching up with friends or the office party. Miah’s is also an ideal location for birthday and New Year celebrations.

Inside Miah’s Castle.

Miah’s Castle offer a takeaway service as well as an ambient, licensed restaurant, which offers a welcome evening out, with a romantic table for two or a group party of 52. Their authentic food is cooked to the highest standards using only the freshest ingredients. Their approach to healthy cooking is that they don’t use any artificial colouring and try to minimise additives in their dishes.

Staff wanted - please call for details, or to book your meal 01963 350425/351888. Open 59.30pm daily.

Bailey Hill Bookshop

Why not curl up with a good book this Christmas? At Bailey Hill – Castle Cary’s own Independent Bookshop - they have the perfect books to suit every age, occasion and taste.

They have been supplying books in Castle Cary for over 40 years and their expertise is second to none. Drop in and take time to browse their carefully curated selection of the best new and classic reads.

If you are looking for a particular book, even if they do not have it in stock, they can source the right one for you to give as a gift for someone else, or simply to treat yourself.

At Bailey Hill Bookshop they make the perfect match between book and customer helping anyone to escape into the pages of a good book this Christmas.

Bailey Hill Bookshop, Fore Street.

THE VISITOR December 2023 13

Cooper and Tanner

For over 100 years Cooper and Tanner have been well recognised in the West Country as the landed property professionals and auctioneers.

They operate 12 offices in

Somerset and Wiltshire, providing professional estate agency and surveying services to the residential, agricultural and commercial property sectors.

Their established and thriving Castle Cary office, headed up by

Nathan Sinden, has a friendly and knowledgeable team who deal with all aspects of selling and letting properties in the town and the surrounding villages.

For those thinking about a move in 2024 now is an excellent time

to make the preparations. They invite those contemplating a sale or let to pop into the office for a chat with the team for honest and constructive advice.

Cooper and Tanner, Fore Street.

Needful Things are really enjoying 25th Christmas in Castle Cary!

Needful Things are really enjoying this, their 25th Christmas in Castle Cary! As you would expect, their store is full from floor to ceiling with all you need for Christmas: Fabulous statement pieces such as giant Nutcrackers, Pheasants and Otters! Tree-trains, Musical Merry-go-Rounds, a beautiful Theatre, plus all those essentials such as Crackers; Napkins; Scented Candles and Reed Diffusers; the most sumptuous Wreathes and Baubles in all colours and themes, plus gifts galore including soaps, lotions and potions, scarves and clothing, accessories, nutcrackers, santas and the cutest little felt animals!

Don't miss their ever popular 3D pop & slot Advent Calendars and this year, their wrap, tags, tissue and gift bags are so delightful, they're selling fast!

They have ideas for your table, for stocking fillers and presents for those challenging friends and family who you never know what to buy for!

Oh, and if you're stuck for what to wear to the Xmas Do? Try their funky net skirts and bright tops, they're so, 'on-trend'! Add to all this, their talent for display and you can see why Needful Things is a must-visit, 'magical' store!

The Hut at Shepherds Gate

Situated on Wyke Road, just up the lane off the main A371 road, you will find The Hut at Shepherds Gate. This is a fantastic little farm shop that started from a basket at the end of the drive.

Here they have a selection of very fresh, home-grown vegetables, with 0 carbon footprint as it arrives at this shop 14 THE VISITOR December 2023

The Hut at Shepherds Gate.

via wheelbarrow. Everyday there are fresh eggs, laid by the hens you can see from the carpark.

They are now stockists for local produce from The Jam Shed, (jams, chutneys, preserves) Carnell’s Honey, Wyke Farms cheese and butter, Thorner’s sausages, meats and pies.

Christmas has arrived at The Hut with stockings, decorations,

The Hut at Shepherds Gate.

jars of pickled eggs and onions, local gifts and wrapping paper.

The Hut is open Tue, Wed, Thur 10am -7pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-4pm, (closed on Mon & Fri).

The Gate is open from 8am10pm for the Bruton Dairies milk machine, eggs, logs and kindling. www.shepherdsgatehut.co.uk.

Thoroughly Wild Meat Co.

This knowledgeable and friendly local butchers on the high street has a varied selection of meats including Saltmarsh Lamb, Dexter Beef, free-range pigs and chickens. At this time of year they also stock Game.

They have a range of homemade sausages from Toulouse style to English

Thoroughly Wild Meat Co.

Breakfast, all are gluten-free.

Also available in the shop are eggs, mustards, oils and condiments as well as antique and contemporary culinary ware with a French twist.

Open Tue-Sat 9am-1pm, WedFri 9am-4pm.

THE VISITOR December 2023 15

MOTORING VINTAGE Motorcycling with Rod Hann DECEMBER again already and the end of another year. I shall save my Christmas wishes for the next issue which is usually published just before Christmas.

Time I think to reflect on what events you did during the last year and what went well and what did not. Being an optimist the coming year will always be better than the last.

Riding events during December are pretty scarce. The Somerset Section start the month with their club night at Cossington on the 7th, this will be a Bring and Buy. Next on the 10th they have the Christmas Run and Lunch, again at Cossington. Always popular so book your place early.

Lastly on the 27th will be Ashley's Run from Evercreech, more poignant this year as we lost Ashley during the last twelve months.

The Dorset Section have the Mince Pie Run from Blandford on the 3rd and this is followed by club night at Pulham on the 13th and this will be a Social Evening.

The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section just have their Annual Lunch at Wincanton on the 4th.

Still enough going on to retain everyone's interest. As always ring 01935-872528 for more details.

I have possession of a copy of George Beales book entitled Honda Six - Recreating the Masterpiece. The book reveals the details of how he assembled a team of engineering experts and they recreated the famous Honda six cylinder racing machine of the 1960's and 70's. The replica machines are exact copies of the

197cc Villiers powered Ambassador.

original down to the smallest detail and are a wonder in themselves.

The book is pricey at £65 but is of the highest quality and quality must always be paid for.

I thoroughly recommend it for a good read, and what a superb Christmas present it would make for your loved one. Copies are available from Charterhouse Auctioneers at Sherborne.

Thinking of Charterhouse they have recently had another auction of motorcycles and related parts at the Haynes International Motor Museum. The machines on offer covered the entire spectrum of motorcycling and they were in generally good, clean condition.

Prices seemed to have remained fair and the range of bikes meant there was something to suit everyone. I enjoy going to spectate and look forward to the next sale in March.

I recently attended the Classic Bike Show at Stafford as I usually do twice a year. I go to help on the main VMCC stand.

Our stand had nine bikes upon

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16 THE VISITOR December 2023

it and one bike in particular rather caught my eye. It was a pale green 197cc Villiers powered Ambassador machine dating from 1953. It had been wonderfully restored and gained a second place in its class for its proud owner, and so I have made it the subject of my picture this month.

Ambassador machines were always slightly different to other makes of machine. Kay Don a Brooklands car racer started the company in 1946 and it was based at Ascot, Berkshire. His first models used 500cc JAP engines but he soon switched to smaller machines using Villiers engine units. In or around 1953 Ambassador introduced a new model which was fitted with an electric starting device, this was a unit fixed underneath the fuel tank and turned the engine by means of a belt drive. All very novel for a machine at this time.

Many of the Ambassador models were equipped with deeply valanced mudguards and some body panelling to make them easy to clean and to protect the rider from getting themselves dirty.

Later models also incorporated electric start in a more conventional form plus a scooter joined the catalogue in 1961. A

50cc moped also joined the lineup in 1961. Ambassador were always a small volume producer of bikes but somehow always rather innovative. Kay Don wished to retire in 1962 so the company was sold to DMW who revamped some of the range and production continued until 1964 when the company closed down.

Another British minor manufacturer had ceased to exist never to be seen again. Perhaps another candidate for a rebirth within the industry?

Motorcycling these days has become part of the leisure industry. Very few people regard their bikes solely as a means of transport to get to work and back every day. All bikes seem to be super sporty models or adventure bikes to take you around the world. It would seem to me that there must be a niche in the market for a simple low powered machine which can be looked after by the owner and be very cheap to run. Ideal for the job of daily commuting. Perhaps that is a challenge for someone to design a commuter bike and make a good business case to a manufacturer and get things going. I am sure there is a hole in the market that needs filling.

Family Health with

Jenna Evans SO AS the year draws to a close, I was musing on what would be my last article for 2023. I was feeling a yearning to brew up some winter remedies after a friend said she was making her Fire Cider. I haven't made this for a few years so thanks to her inspiration, this month we'll have a little look at the history and uses of this fantastic winter tonic!

So what is Fire Cider? At its heart it is an oxymel, a remedy that includes vinegar and honey.

Oxymels have been used for thousands of years and were prescribed by the likes of Galen, Avicenna and Hippocrates – so you'll be in good company! In recent years, Fire Cider was popularised by renowned herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, who with others, in the 1980s, perfected the recipe. Fire Cider includes potent anti-microbials and immune tonics as well as packing a warming punch. Before we look at the original recipe and directions, there's an interesting tale involving trademarks. The popularity of Fire Cider grew over the decades and a few years ago, an American company decided to mass produce Fire Cider and trademark the name – then they decided to try and sue the herbalists who had been using that name for years! Luckily, these herbal warriors were made of steely stuff and after a court battle and long wait, the judge ruled the term Fire Cider to be generic. This is a significant victory for folk medicine over big business.

Fire Cider is a spicy, pungent, warming and zesty winter tonic that that can be easily and cheaply, blended at home. You'll need a good sized mason jar, organic apple cider vinegar (unpasturised with the 'mother') and some local honey. You'll be packing the jar with a selection of herbs, covering with the vinegar and leaving it to infuse in a warm area (sunny windowsill, airing cupboard), shaking daily for 3-4 weeks (can be left longer). After this time, strain off the infused vinegar, warm some honey to taste – you may want to experiment a little with quantity - and mix well. Fire cider will keep for several months

in a cool place but people often choose to refrigerate. So here's the original mix – ½ cup grated fresh horseradish, ½ cup chopped fresh onion, ¼ cup chopped fresh garlic, ¼ cup grated fresh ginger, cayenne pepper to taste (again experiment but a small handful for a large jar is a starting point).

Dried forms can be substituted and you will need around half the quantity. All the ingredients are anti-microbial. Horseradish and onions are excellent decongestants; garlic is a great cardiac tonic; ginger and cayenne are wonderfully warming. Simple and potent!

As with all great recipes, we each add our little twists. Popular additions include rosemary, sage, thyme, turmeric, lemons and cinnamon.

Dosage – Fire Cider can be used daily as a preventative. 1-2 tsp a day. Straight from the spoon may be a bit intense (although some do it), so think of diluting in water or juice and taking as a shot. You can also add to hot water for a warming winter brew.

Take a small dose every couple of hours if you're feeling under the weather. You can mix fire cider with extra honey to make a cough syrup, soak a flannel of the mixture as a warming chest compress, or even rub into tired and sore muscles. I'm reliably informed it makes a rather yummy vinaigrette salad dressing too! I'd love to hear your experiences and recipes.

Some precautions for those with a stomach ulcer or who suffer from indigestion. Although many people find cider vinegar to be a helpful digestive, others do not – so try with caution. As it's packed full of powerful herbs, if you're on any medications, always check with your GP or pharmacist for safety. Happy December everyone! © Jenna Evans 2023.

Fire cider. Image: Shutterstock.com/rchat.

INSTANT CASH FOR YOUR OLD TOYS!

PASTIMES Of Sherborne (near the Abbey) • Over thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys • Established business paying BEST prices for old toys in any condition

ANY TOYS CONSIDERED

TOP PRICES PAID for old toys Those magical names  Britains  Matchbox  Subbuteo  Triang  Spot-On

 Dinky  Timpo  Corgi  Meccano  Hornby

Covid Safe Home Visits • Tel: 01935 816072 / 07527 074343 Email: info@pastimes-toys.co.uk

•Jenna is a Holistic Health Coach and creator of bespoke beauty products. She can be found on Facebook at ‘Alchemical Beauty UK’.

Jenna is also a multi-award winning Product Advisor at Ceres Natural Foods, Yeovil. To make an appointment, please pop in or call 01935 428791 for details. Always check with a health professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle or starting a new supplement, especially with any existing health conditions.

THE VISITOR December 2023 17

GOLDEN YEARS – Care of the Elderly Mendip Mobility

AS ONE OF the South West’s leading mobility specialists Mendip Mobility supply a vast range of top quality, competitively priced mobility products.

Inside Mendip Mobility.

As a family run business Mendip Mobility pride themselves in their aftercare

service, offering a comprehensive after sales service including repairs and maintenance.

With stores in Yeovil, Street and Trowbridge you can be sure there’s a showroom near you but if you’re unable to travel, in home demonstrations of larger items such as riser recliners and mobility scooters can be arranged at your address.

Mendip Mobility are proud to be partnered with the Motability Scheme which allows you to exchange some or all of your enhanced rate motability allowance for a scooter or powered wheelchair.

To be eligible for the scheme you must be in receipt of one of these benefits: • Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance • Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment • War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement • Armed Forces Independence Payment Contact Mendip Mobility today for all your mobility needs, find out more at mendip mobility.co.uk.

Respite Care at Elliscombe House

For carers of the elderly (often family members), respite care is an essential service.

It allows the person being cared for a break from the usual routine, whilst affording the carer(s) a welcome rest.

Elliscombe House offers exceptional respite care in stunning surroundings. The nursing team are highly experienced in lifelong conditions and elderly care, supporting

quality convalescence and rehabilitation post-hospital admission. At Elliscombe House they are committed to providing the care and support needed to get your loved one back on their feet. Respite residents experience the same superb level of service enjoyed by permanent residents.

As well as offering a welcome break from the daily routine, respite care can often be a first step to exploring care and support options for those who may be struggling with daily tasks at home.

For more information on respite care at Elliscombe House, please email info@elliscombe house.com or call 01963 32746.

"I Remember The War" a collection of stories and memories

‘I Remember The War’ - a collection of stories and memories from residents in Highfield House Residential Care Home, Eastbury House Residential Care Home and Ivelhurst Nursing Home. Capturing memories before they are lost. To place your order contact Rachel on 01963 350697 or email: manager @highfieldhouse.net. Hardback copy - £19.30 and Paperback copy - £14.35.

HIGHFIELD HOUSE

Award Winning Residential Care Home 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 18 THE VISITOR December 2023

Regency Care & Mobility ltd,Crewkerne

Regency Care & Mobility reliably provides an assortment of mobility products and equipment to help make life easier.

Situated in Crewkerne, Somerset, their range of scooters, chairs, beds, and stairlifts are designed to get rid of the stigma that's associated with disability.

They provide a range of items that help you or your loved ones maintain independence on a dayto-day basis.

Backed by more than 15 years of experience, they're Acorn™ approved and are always happy to provide professional advice.

What's more, they also offer free home demonstrations and delivery services so you don't have to worry about a thing.

This allows you to test the products to ensure that they're suitable before you go ahead with the purchase. Alternatively, visit their friendly advisers in-store and try out the products there.

South Cary House, Residential Home

Situated in the pretty market town of Castle Cary, South Cary House is a Grade II listed Georgian property set in its own beautifully maintained grounds of approximately one acre.

In the comfort and security of South Cary House they provide a relaxed, comfortable and happy environment for their residents.

They place a strong emphasis on the preservation of dignity, privacy and respect for each individual's choice of lifestyle.

They are delighted to have been awarded an ‘Excellent’ for Care by the Care Quality Commission.

South Cary House is within walking distance of the town and there is also a convenient regular bus service to Yeovil and Shepton Mallet. Should you wish to travel further afield trains go to London and Plymouth from Castle Cary railway station.

Both homes feature petting farms, a unique feature that is the brainchild of their animalloving managing director and has become a feature across their purpose-built homes.

Notaro Care Homes listen to the needs, thoughts and wishes of residents to provide the best care possible. Their reason for doing so is simple; to create a care package as unique as the individual they provide care for.

To find out more, please visit notarohomes.co.uk and see advert on the back cover.

Read Online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Notaro Care Homes Immacolata House.

The tranquil garden at South Cary House.

Notaro Care Homes – caring when it matters most

Over the past 40 years, Notaro Care Homes have been building a reputation for delivering the highest standards of dementia and nursing care in their care homes across the South West.

Their homes feature state-ofthe-art care technology and facilities, and compassionate and caring staff. La Fontana Dementia Nursing Home in Martock features a sun therapy room and their Immacolata Dementia Nursing Home in Langport is situated amongst five beautiful acres.

THE VISITOR December 2023 19

Grays at Home

GRAYS at Home is a lovely homeware shop offering a great selection of handpicked items for your home, run by Tracey Gray and associated with GeorgeJames Properties. Based in the heart of Somerton the shop is conveniently located opposite Burns the Bread next to the main town carpark.

Grays at Home offer a wide variety of beautiful products including wonderful Christmas gifts, rattan lamp shades, mirrors, cushions as well as many sustainable/recyclable products that will find pride of place in any home. Tracey is passionate about

sourcing lovely quality products to suit all budgets as well as focusing on reducing the impact on the environment. The shop is open from Tuesday to Saturday. www.graysathome.co.uk.

Tracey Gray of Grays at Home.

The Buttercross Tearooms

Situated in the heart of Somerton’s Market Place is the award-winning Buttercross Tearooms. They always source local foods and produce, make as much in-house as possible, and stick to a seasonal menu which ensures the freshest flavour.

Buttercross Tearooms love welcoming back their customers as well as new passers-by.

Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, find out more at www.thebuttercrosstearooms .com.

Somerton Windows

Established in 1991, Somerton Windows Ltd is a family run business that prides itself on providing a professional and caring service. They provide all things glass from picture glass, to orangeries and everything in between, including windows, doors, conservatories, balustrading, double glazing and wood burner stove glass. UPVC and aluminium options are available as well as warm roofs.

If you have any projects involving glass in any guise, Somerton Windows will be pleased to discuss these and offer competitive quotations which are both free of charge and obligation.

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

20 THE VISITOR December 2023

Karen at Brunel Pet Centre has plenty of Christmas gift ideas for your pet in stock - pop in and see!

THE BUTTERCROSS TEAROOMS

Market Place, Somerton (01458) 273168 Homemade Cakes & Scones Morning Coffee, Cream Teas Lunch Served 12 – 3pm The Buttercross Tearooms at Market Place.

Open: Tue – Sat 9am – 4pm

THE VISITOR December 2023 21

22 THE VISITOR December 2023

THE VISITOR December 2023 23

Osborne’s Christmas Trees Celebrating over 60 years of growing and selling Christmas Trees at Wickhams Cross, Butleigh

Visit Osborne’s Christmas Trees whose friendly staff will help you to select your tree and then pack it into your car for you.

All things are possible, they have put a 6ft tree on a moped which was ridden home like a broomstick, they have put a 14ft tree in a Porsche and in 2018 put

a 12ft tree on the roof of a Maserati!

They also supply tree stands, wreaths, holly and mistletoe in fact everything you need to make your house full of Christmas cheer.

They even provide free Reindeer dust to sparkle in the night and attract Santa’s Reindeer to your home. They are open from 10am daily until dark right through until Christmas and look forward to seeing you.

Osborne’s Christmas Trees - A Family Business in Butleigh.

Celebrating over 60 years of growing and selling Christmas trees in Butleigh...

Osborne’s Christmas Trees Wickhams Cross, Butleigh, BA6 8TP

OPEN 25th & 26th November & DAILY from 1st December 10am-dark

O Fresh from the Forest O ✴ Traditional Trees ✴ Nordman Fir ✴ Mistletoe and Holly ✴ Potted Trees ✴ Fraser Fir ✴ Logs in Bags ✴ Large Trees ✴ Wreaths ✴ FREE REINDEER DUST Delivery service available see website for details www.o-christmas.co.uk  07494 015440 Inside Wild Cardz, Wincanton.

dars

Calen

Wild Cardz

Diari

es

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

Cards & Balloons for Every Occasion

Now in ... Christmas Novelties for all your relatives & friends – Christmas baubles LOYALTY REWARD CARD SCHEME

 CRAFT PACKS  Toys – Stocking Fillers – Crepe/Tissue/Gift Wrap Party Items – Wool – Much more UPS Collection & Delivery Point • www.cardswithlove.net

Oxford Mill Clothing & Lifestyle

The Market Place, Castle Cary, BA7 7AG Tel: 01963 350230 www.oxfordmillclothing.co.uk

24 THE VISITOR December 2023

Wild Cardz, Wincanton

Oxford Mill, Castle Cary

Christmas greetings cards from Wincanton can be found at Wild Cardz. Advent calendars and candles, Diaries and Calendars for 2024 are now in stock. This year they have a selection of gift ideas including their new range of stocking fillers from Christmas novelties to travel soaps, sponges and scented candles and individual handmade Christmas baubles. They have an array of Christmas cards, personalised, boxed, 3D, charity, and school friends.

They are stockists of King Cole wools in a variety of colours, patterns, haberdashery items, lots of craft kits to entertain the children and Christmas cake frills and decorations. Not forgetting the gift wrapping papers, bows and ribbons.

Open Monday to Friday 9am5pm, Saturday 9am-3pm. They are your local UPS collect and delivery point. If you can’t get to the shop try online version at www.cardswithlove.net.

Find the perfect gift at Oxford Mill this Christmas. Choose from cosy knitwear, hats, gloves, scarves and socks. Treat that special someone to a luxurious lambswool throw, indulgent toiletries or a beautifully scented candle. With many more wonderful gift ideas for men, women, babies and the home, why not pop into Oxford Mill this Christmas!

Georgian architecture, cobblestones and modern additions.

Discover the beauty and tranquillity of Vivary Park, or catch some live sporting action with horseracing, football and rugby on offer!

Explore performances at the Brewhouse Theatre and sniff out some West Country bargains on Bath Place, at the Orchard Shopping Centre or the Farmers Market.

Monopoly - Taunton Edition!- The Perfect Christmas Gift

Celebrate the best of the West Country with this special edition of the Monopoly game! The name Taunton derives from Town on the River Tone, or Tone Town and it remains a picturesque mix of Taunton Monopoly’s RRP is £34.99 and available on Amazon.

Ward & Sibley The Jewellers of Yeovil

When you visit a jewellers shop it is more often than not for a special occasion. At Ward &

Sibley jewellers of Yeovil, the friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure that you receive a personal service whether you are buying a small thank you gift or an elegant diamond ring.

Being an independent retailer they offer a very individual choice of jewellery.

There is something to suit all tastes and budgets from contemporary costume jewellery through to bespoke pieces.

Whilst diamonds are always a firm favourite as are gemstones, at Ward & Sibley you will find a comprehensive range of precious and semi-precious stones. If you are seeking a particular stone please ask. Why not call in - a free gift wrap service is available to ensure your gift looks extra special.

Ward & Sibley take customer well being very seriously and are still following all government guidelines to provide a safe shopping experience. If you have any questions before visiting the store you can give them a call on 01935 474065.

WARD & SIBLEY

ESTABLISHED OVER 70 YEARS

The Jewellers of Yeovil ... “ Where customer care comes first ”

Free Gem Ring Cleaning for those Christmas Parties

Individual pieces of jewellery and exquisite gifts to suit all tastes and budgets Christmas all wrapped up!

Find us at ... THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL, BA20 1NA • Tel: 01935 474065

FREE Car Park at rear of shop f or customers while visiting

THE VISITOR December 2023 25

Palmers Garden Centre, Yeovil

See the wide range of toys, gifts and festive treats at Palmers along with cakes, chocolate, festive preservatives and stocking fillers, books and Christmas cards. In their Christmas shop they have a Free Grotto surrounded by traditional wooden toys, musical snow globes, door decorations, indoor and outdoor lights and inflatables.

Baubles for every style tree,

soft toys, tiny stocking fillers, wrapping paper, real wreathes and Christmas trees. Sample the festive menu at the Terrace Restaurant with coffee and cake, afternoon teas, lunch packs for the kids, sandwiches, warm lunches, fried breakfasts, and their Quality Sunday Roasts. The Terrace Restaurant offers quality service in a large indoor seating area and garden for the summer with no need to book. Palmers look forward to welcoming you.

It’s Christmas at Palmers Garden Centre in Yeovil.

GLASTONBURY POST OFFICE AND CLASS CARDS OPEN: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-12.30pm

35 High Street Glastonbury BA6 9HG

Telephone 01458 831536

GREETINGS CARDS • HOLIDAY INSURANCE • FOREIGN CURRENCY • MUCH MORE

26 THE VISITOR December 2023

M O N E Y G R A M S • MOBILE TOP-UPS

STATIONERY • SAVINGS ACCOUNTS

STAMPS • GAS • ELECTRICITY • WATER • BANKING TRANSACTIONS

Kafé Fontana, Sherborne

Situated at the bottom of Cheap Street in Sherborne, Kafé Fontana is dog-friendly and they are selling their divine homemade Christmas cakes and puds.

All of their patisseries are homemade on the premises, and they have their popular Christmas hampers, cakes and puddings available now.

In the mornings, a hearty breakfast is served until 11.30am, lunches from 11.30am-3.30pm, afternoon teas from 2pm. If you have any special dietary needs Kafé Fontana can still provide you with good tasty food.

As well as being fully licensed so that you can enjoy the festivities, their Christmas dinner menu is available on 7th, 8th, 15th and 22nd December at 7pm. Please book by calling 01935 812180.

Kafé Fontana is open Mon - Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9.30am-4pm.

Sandy’s Furniture Warehouse, Gillingham

Don't miss out on the incredible deals at Sandy’s Emporium Sale starting on the 27th December.

The sale is packed with amazing bargains, especially in the beds and mattress section. Whether you are looking for a cosy new

and nibbles while you shop!

They have many different gift sets available to buy as well as special offers and a selection of 'seconds' from their recent kiln firing.

Muchelney Pottery is brimming with gift ideas this Christmas.

Kafé Fontana on Cheap Street, Sherborne.

bed or comfortable mattress they’ve got you covered.

With unbeatable prices and top quality products in stock, this is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your sleep experience.

Hurry in to take advantage of these fantastic offers and many other deals to be had in the rest of the emporium before they are gone!'

Christmas Shopping at Muchelney Pottery

They also have work on display by a selection of other makers including signed pots by Mark Melbourne, Nick Rees, John Leach and Nic Harrison, Handmade silver jewellery by Holly Webb, Hand carved spoons, bowls and bread boards by Ben Leach, Handmade baskets by Jenny Crisp, Copper bowls with enamel decoration by Joanne

Horrobin, Metal garden stakes

by Chris Kampf, Stone casts by Tom Clark, Handmade soaps by Lucy Litchfield, Handmade Christmas cards by Liz Leach and Carole Melbourne. They look forward to seeing you!

Muchelney Pottery, Nr Langport, TA10 0DW www. johnleachpottery.co.uk Sauce Boat, £40 Handmade and woodfired in Muchelney, Nr Langport.

The pottery shop is brimming with gift ideas this Christmas and they have extended their opening hours to give customers even more opportunity to visit.

The shop will be open Monday Saturday, 10-1, 2-4 until 23rd December. Plus, join them on Thursday 7th, 14th and 21st between 4-8pm for a mulled cider

THE VISITOR December 2023 27

Christmas in WINCANTON Bretts (C Brett & Son), Pet & Wildlife Supplies in Sherborne

Winter is the time to welcome the wild birds into your garden with some of Bretts assorted bird feeds. They have a large range of wild bird food and feeders to cater for all types of birds.

Bretts (C Brett & Son) Pet and Wildlife supplies is situated in the Old Market Carpark in Sherborne and is a long established business.

They have an extensive range of dog and cat toys, ideal as Christmas gifts, plus all the usual pet foods, beds, leads and accessories, hedgehog and wildlife foods and supplies etc.

Bretts is open Mon-Fri 9am5.15pm, Sat 9am-4.45pm. Tel 01935 812107.

H. R. Hodge, South Petherton

Want a new TV but confused by all the options? Need an Audio System to give TV Shows, Films and Music the clarity they deserve? H.R. Hodge can help being your local TV & Audio specialists, offering a range of TV & Audio from Panasonic, Loewe, Mitchell & Brown, Sonos and Roberts radio.

They’re with you every step of the way, from help and advice through to installation and after sales support. They also have one of the few remaining TV and Audio repair workshops within the store in South Petherton for all your repair needs.

To cut those energy bills they stock a range of appliances from fridge-freezers and heat pump tumble driers to air fryers and soup makers for that perfect winter warmer. Give them a call or pop in store to see what they can offer.

Bretts Pet & Wildlife supplies, Sherborne.

28 THE VISITOR December 2023

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Step into Christmas at Otter Garden Centre, Wincanton

EVERYONE AT Otter is looking forward to the festive season and welcoming you to their garden centre to experience the magic of Otter.

and relax after Christmas shopping. Choose from delicious homemade lunches, snacks, drinks and cakes.

Find them just 5 minutes off the A303 on the Wincanton – Bruton Road, BA9 8HA. www. ottergardencentres.com.

Pizza Palace

The Christmas range is bigger than ever. If you are shopping for special gifts, stylish decorations, a new Christmas tree or festive lighting, Otter Garden Centre is definitely the place to be!

There is lots to see and do during your visit too, watch the festive fun of their singing reindeers or take part in a selfie competition for your chance to WIN great prizes this Christmas.

The coffee shop is open daily and is the perfect place to sit back

At Pizza Palace, all their pizzas are made to order using fresh dough, there’s a varied menu including daily specials, kids, vegan and gluten free options.

Special offer every Wednesday and Thursday is 30% off.

Open 7 days a week from 4pm11pm. Collection in Wincanton and express home deliveries available within a 9 mile radius.

They also do party orders for both small and large groups. Organise your Christmas Party seated in their restaurant area with a fully

Pizza Palace on South Street.

licensed bar available.

Order by phone 01963 34600 or online at PizzaPalace Wincanton.com.

Simon Albiston, Principal Dentist, at Church Street Dental Centre in Wincanton is celebrating his 30th year at the practice in December.

Simon came to Wincanton in 1993 as a newly qualified Dentist and never left. He offers high quality dentistry to his loyal patient base. For the last 15 years Simon has been placing dental implants and has embraced the digital era and now offers fully digitally planned and guided

implant placement.

Simon was invited to the King’s Coronation Garden Party earlier this year, which he attended, with his wife Jenny.

Bennetts Field Garage Ltd “As we firmly believe service to others is the highest purpose”

Bennetts Field Garage Ltd is your Local authorised MOT, Repair, Maintenance and Servicing

Centre. With their fully equipped garage and team of highly qualified vehicle technicians, they always strive to achieve the highest levels of customer satisfaction. From carrying out full engine overhauls to routine maintenance works such as an oil change, they welcome all kinds of jobs, no matter how big or small. They pride themselves on being your local vehicle technician in Wincanton.

With many years in this trade, they are passionate about offering an excellent customer experience and high-quality work every time.

From carrying out repairs to your car to changing a tyre, they offer a comprehensive range of mechanical services and always aim to exceed your expectations.

If you are looking for a car garage in Wincanton, call Bennetts Field Garage Ltd on 01963 33620.

Simon Albiston, Principal Dentist, at Church Street Dental Centre attending The King’s Coronation Garden Party.

THE VISITOR December 2023 29

The areas where council tax has climbed by hundreds of pounds - How does your area compare?

ANALYSIS by finance experts, RIFT, reveals that council tax in England has increased by an average of 5.1% in the past year, while shining a light on “a true postcode lottery” that has seen some local rates climb by as much as 14%.

RIFT has analysed average council tax rates in England in the years 2022/23 and 2023/24, looking at how the rate of tax has changed over the past year on a national and local level.

In recent weeks, a number of councils across England, including areas such as Cornwall, and Croydon, have announced

30 THE VISITOR December 2023

that they intend to increase council tax rates, often as an attempt to increase revenue and avoid the council from going bankrupt.

RIFT can now reveal that any new council tax increases will come as a painful second blow to much of England’s population who have already endured significant increases over the past year.

In England, the average council tax bill has increased from £1,966 last year to £2,065 this year, marking an annual increase of 5.1%, or almost £100.

Londoners have experienced the largest regional increase, seeing the average rate jump by 6.2% to sit at £1,801 per year.

London, however, continues to

Shutterstock.com/Yau Ming Low.

have the lowest average council tax bill of all English regions, while at £2,196, the North East has the highest.

The smallest regional tax increase has been recorded in the East of England where councils have increased rates by an average of 4.6%.

When analysing the data on a local authority level, it’s revealed that there has been an enormous difference in annual tax increases between different areas of the country.

The biggest council tax increase in England has been recorded in Croydon, South London. In the past year, the borough’s average rate has risen by a staggering 13.9%, or £273.90, bringing the current price up to £2,240.

Despite this large increase, councillors in Croydon are now

considering another 5% increase for the year 2024/25.

Thurrock in Essex has seen a rise of 9.4%, and Slough has seen an increase of 9.3%.

The list of England’s largest increases then goes on to be dominated by London boroughs including the City of London (6.6%), Hammersmith & Fulham (6.4%), and Newham (6.2%).

Among the largest council tax increases outside of London are Eastleigh (5.8%), Peterborough (5.8%), and Huntingdonshire (5.6%).

However, while some people battle double-digit increases, there remain other areas of England where residents have been more lucky in facing only modest rate rises. These include Central Bedfordshire (1.3%), North Lincolnshire (2.4%), Telford & Wrekin (2.6%), Surrey Heath (3.3%), and Spelthorne (3.3%).

Bradley Post, MD of RIFT, commented: “Councils are having a tough time of it at the moment with many on the brink of bankruptcy.

Increasing council tax is one way in which they can try and keep their heads above water, but during a cost of living crisis it’s a bitter pill to swallow for residents.

There’s also such a vast discrepancy between one area of England and the next. A true postcode lottery. We have to feel for the people of Croydon, for example, who are facing almost a 20% tax increase in just two years.

Anyone who is worried about being able to afford rising taxes at a time like this might want to consider checking whether or not they’re eligible for a tax refund.

It’s not just the self-employed who could be owed money by HMRC, and you can back-collect for up to four years, so it’s well worth checking out. You could be entitled to hundreds of pounds.”

20% Off Winter Offer At Lizzie Price Shading Solutions

Awnings, External Blinds and Pergolas aren't just for Summer, they're for 365 days a year.

Especially when they're equipped with lighting, heating, and side screens in the case of pergolas, creating a cosy and pleasant environment on the terrace that can be enjoyed, whatever the

weather. To help you make the most of your outdoor space this Autumn/Winter they are offering their lowest prices of the year!

And with a lead time of just 4 weeks, you can unlock your gardens true potential and start living the alfresco lifestyle right away.

December Notice Board SHERBORNE

Lizzie Price.

If you want to order now for delivery in the New Year, that's fine too, allowing you to benefit from this amazing offer and beat the New Year price increases. As long as installation is before Easter 2024, they will store your external shading system at no cost for you, ready to deliver and install when you are ready.

They are offering 20% off all their outdoor shading range. To take advantage of this offer all orders must be placed before Monday 11th December 2023.

Antiques, Arts, Crafts, Food & More. Sherborne Digby Hall Monthly Market. Saturday December 2nd. 10-3. Cafe, Toilets, Parking & Up to 70 sellers. Trader enquiries Tel: 07717 454643.

Leigh on Mendip

Christmas Tree Festival: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10

December, St Giles Church, Leigh on Mendip BA3 5QJ 11am-4pm.

Refreshments, free entry.

STOURHEAD

Stourhead Antique & Vintage Fair – 16th & 17th December 11am – 3pm. Stourton Memorial Hall, Spread Eagle Courtyard.

07720 896129.

TO ADVERTISE your January event here, email info@thevisitor magazine.co.uk or write to: PO BOX 5522 Castle Cary, BA9 0BP. 20 words for £5, 30p per additional word. Payment via credit/debit card or cheque.

Christmas/January deadline is 11th December!

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

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 39  A grovelling apology for the mistake in last month's quiz, the answer to Q9, The Beatles first album was actually named 'Please, Please, Me'.

My thanks to all those who emailed and left voice messages; the Editor has cut my tea-breaks to two hours a day now as punishment!

1) 'This Life' and 'Windows' are recent releases from which band?

2) Who were the disco/funk band who sang about 'Le Freak' in 1978?

3) Lyrics: 'You could have a steam train, if you'd just lay down your tracks' 4) 'Are You Gonna Go My Way'. A 90's hit from whom?

5) 'I'm a Boy', 'Happy Jack', and 'Pictures of Lily' were all mid-60's hit for which band?

6) Who sang about a ship named 'Dignity'?

7) Duran Duran declared 'Is There Something...' what?

8) The Beatles 'Free As A Bird' was released in which year?

9) Gwen Dickey is best known for fronting which band?

10) Name the lady who sang about 'These Words' in 2004.

BonusQuestion In which year was the song in Q6 first released.

Great Quotes in Music (152) “There are more love songs than anything else. If songs could make you do something we'd all love one another” - Frank Zappa

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 November Sudoku on page 39.

THE VISITOR October 2023 31

Vickery’s Luxury Travel New Adventure

Vickery’s Luxury Travel has been a familiar sight across Somerset and the South West since 2015.

They have built a strong reputation you can trust for providing quality coach hire services to a wide range of customers including schools, private groups and more recently international cruise clients.

For 2024 they are adding to their portfolio by providing their own day tours for sale to the general public. They are putting

together a quality programme of day trips which include Kew Gardens & The Orchid Festival, Compton Acres followed by a fish & chip cruise around Poole Harbour, Highclere Castle the home of Downton Abbey and The National Memorial Arboretum.

The full programme can be found on their new website www: vickeryscoaches.co.uk or give Claire a ring on 01935 825114.

They aim to offer a unique personal experience for all their customers with the personal touch being paramount.

December dating tips from Alison at Just Somerset Introductions

Hello everyone, it’s December and the festive season is nearly upon us! Can’t believe we are saying that again, another year gone by already! We’ve had a very wet autumn, but some wonderful autumn colours to enjoy. As our thoughts move towards the festive season and Christmas, if you don’t want to be on your own and would like to meet a special someone, perhaps even have some romance and a relationship again, then consider Just Somerset Introductions part of the Just Introductions Group.

We offer one to one introductions

32 THE VISITOR December 2023

and also arrange social trips where members can meet in a relaxed way, be it a pub lunch or a skittles evening, NT visits, gardens, theatre trips, dinner dances, walks, cinema, coffee meets and much more. We cover all ages, and welcome all single men and women, there might be someone there for you. Younger ones are most welcome! We are also in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Surrey & Devon and you can meet members from across the group. Please see our website for testimonials and details of how we work and give us a call! What are you waiting for, it might be the best Christmas present to yourself!

Live the life you deserve!

As we age, we encounter fresh challenges and frustrations that can make the act of relaxation feel like an arduous task and making use of your bathroom facilities can often feel laborious and demanding.

Adjusting your bathroom can greatly improve your overall safety and peace of mind, whether it's increasing accessibility or getting assistance from others, modifying your environment can help restore some independence.

Limited mobility does not mean limited choice

Maintaining personal care and hygiene should remain a top priority, even if limited mobility is a result of aging or illness. We understand that figuring out how to make your bathroom accessible can be daunting, and you may have concerns about it appearing clinical and unwelcoming.

However, our friendly and experienced team will design a bathroom that meets your needs and your style - accessible bathrooms no longer need to sacrifice style for functionality. Whether it’s a walk-in shower, walk-in bath or wet room that you need we will advise on how to make your bathroom feel luxurious with our wide range of decors to suit all tastes.

Updating your bathroom with AHM

We are a family-run business founded on our own personal experiences within the care and mobility industry. When we started in 1999, we found that there weren’t many services providing expertise on accessible bathrooms, but we also discovered customers were being given limited information and financial protection. We always treat customers like our own family and are proud of the caring ethos shared amongst our teams, there is always a real person at the end of the phone.

We don’t employ salesmen

Our experienced and caring surveyors will visit you to discuss your needs and we encourage family or friends to attend to help you make your decision.

We also use a team of employed experienced and friendly installers for every bathroom installation.

“Not only have they done a great job, but they have been so kind to my mum who is very fragile both physically and emotionally at the moment.”

-Margot Please get in touch: If you would like more information on how we can help with your bathroom, call us on 01823 751 115

THE VISITOR December 2023 33

Luca's Garden

with Bridget Sudworth LUCA HAS been very cunning during all the recent wet weather in choosing with care a route that manages to avoid the really muddy bits. It’s worth following in his paw steps as we slop through meadow and woodland.

He also manages to avoid rough hewn steps up hillsides and takes the ramp that lies to one side. In all the many walks we take together, he never forgets the routes and sometimes there are arguments about which path to follow. This must be residual from his street days bearing in mind that the concept of a ‘walk’ is anathema to him - the only criteria to follow is one where old food may be discovered or shelter for overnight stays. Strange how memories linger in the mind of a dog.

The slop has invaded the garden with abundance and our humble ditch has become a little rushing brook that has overcome the mound in the middle to allow the flow of water to reach right down the boundary to the road.

Padding about among the herbaceous plants has become a bit treacherous with slips across the stepping stones so all tasks are accomplished with care. Once again, reading up with garden news has reminded me to hesitate before cutting down on deadheading. A terrible murder occurred, to my deep distress, while planting bulbs when I managed to unwittingly kill a

sleeping slow worm; my trowel actually cut it into three parts.

The only comfort to be derived was the fact that it was there at all which meant we must be getting something right to have one in the first place.

Among other creatures found while rabbiting around were many beetles which is a comfortingly good sign of a healthy ecosystem. Beetles are very underrated it seems but inevitably they are an essential part of the garden ecosystem being predators, pollinators and decomposers. They are linked to others in the garden working together like the rare oil beetle whose life cycle is dependent on solitary bees. The beetle larvae, hidden inside flowers, hitch a ride on the bee to invade its nest where larvae can develop on the pollen and nectar to emerge as an adult. Like everything else these days, loss of habitat like wild flower meadows is affecting numbers. There is so much to do to heal the gaps in the natural world. You can help by leaving piles of leaf litter or log piles where beetles can find shelter and would be greatly aided by the inclusion of the dead hedge which is anything but dead! We are being urged by both the RHS and the Wildlife Trust, to name but a few organisations, to keep beetles in mind and make provision for them in the garden.

December is a good month to get these things going as we face uncertain weather from the coming winter. While visiting the amazing Roman villa at The Newt recently, I was unable to walk past decaying wood along the way without photographing

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Seasonal colour.

it. Fallen trees have clearly become home to many insects which leave fascinating myriad holes and tunnels in the wood confirming the need to leave fallen wood if possible to the vagaries of nature.

Holly berries are rampant but will all be gone by the time we need them to decorate our homes for Christmas but there is still plenty of old man's beard in the hedgerows and some of the dried seed heads from the garden will lend themselves to being sprayed silver or gold, perhaps, to add to a seasonal display. If you pick your holly and keep it in water in a garage or shed, all will be well! Glistening white pearls of seeds adorn the mistletoe this year so there will be plenty to pick for home decoration.

I recently read an article about growing broad beans and this is the time of year to read up on gardening while making plans for next year. We always grow The Sutton which are the short

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TREE PLANTING

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660 34 THE VISITOR December 2023

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

variety that don’t need support and which are obviously less prone to wind damage. Advice given was to stagger the planting to increase the picking time but in smaller gardens, this isn’t always possible as the ground is often needed for the next crop of something different.

Planting them now, which is possible, does expose them to hungry rodents which can wipe out a whole crop but planting them first in boxes in the greenhouse, is still, to my mind, the best way to ensure nearly 100% germination rate, then plant out with good root growth in early New Year months. They soon catch up with the earlier planted crop.

Grando Violetto is recommended as one of the purple flowered variety while Aquadulce Claudia is advised for an early harvest with Autumn planting. I was annoyed to discover that several of my Suttons turned into Aquadulce when matured clearly somebody had not paid attention while sorting out the seeds! The same thing happened when harvesting the carrots to discover even parsnips among the crop!!

Fungi too are in abundance at the moment and once more, the photographing opportunity was not to be missed. They make such fabulous displays when growing on discarded wood and one can

often find our Polish brethren busy picking in the woodland they certainly know what they are doing and pick with confidence.

There is so much uncertainty at this time of the year as to what winter might throw at us. If the abundance of holly berries is anything to go by, we might expect to see much colder days in the near future. Personally, I would be quite glad to see an end to the three still active wasps nests that we have tucked in under our bay windows as they present a bit of a hazard while clearing clematis and other wall climbers. When temperatures

drop, the bulk of the wasp population will die off while the queens hibernate till Spring.

Should they venture out early, beguiled by high temperatures, they could die of starvation if food is limited.

If they survive, they will find a place to start a new nest, lay their eggs and begin a new colony. At least an old nest is not reinhabited which gives one the chance to block any sneaky little holes.

Why not take a few photos of your garden in its sodden state to remind yourself, should we have another drought, what it looked like after so much rain?

Fungal cluster.

Deadwood fungi.

Glorious decay.

Beetle housing.

THE VISITOR December 2023 35

London Calling with Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design

In November, we visited London on two occasions, the first was to attend The Garden Media Guild Awards Luncheon at The Savoy Hotel. Regular readers of my column will remember that we attended this event last year for the first time, and we enjoyed it so much, we decided to go again this year.

This year, The Guild supported three chosen charities, Perennial, Thrive and Greenfingers, and I was fortunate to sit next to Sue Allen, the Chair of Greenfingers.

I was very interested to find out about the work of the charity who provide life-limited children, their families, and carers support by creating outdoors spaces for children’s hospices, providing emotional support through the power and pleasure of nature, championing being away from the bedside and embracing being outdoors with all its many benefits.

The event was hosted by Manjo Malde, the award-winning garden designer, who you may recognize as one of the designers on the popular Channel 4 TV show, Your Garden Made Perfect presented

by Angela Scanlon.

Congratulations to all the recipients of awards this year, but the most popular winner of the afternoon was author, photographer, and broadcaster Barbara Segall for her Outstanding Contribution to Horticulture.

Our second visit in the month was to The Pro-Landscaper Awards at ExCel in London. The Mary Anning Space to Learn Garden we exhibited at RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May had been shortlisted for The Temporary Installation Category and we were very excited.

We arrived at ExCel just after lunch and visited the various

trade stands and talked to suppliers of some amazing products. Not surprisingly I came away with a large bag of leaflets, so plenty of inspiration for future garden design projects.

The award ceremony for the Small Project Awards in Association with Provender Nurseries started after we had finished a delicious 3 course meal; I could get used to all this fine dining and was hosted by RHS Chelsea Flower Show MultiAward-Winning Landscaper, Mark Gregory.

These awards recognise projects in the landscaping sector with a value under £50K, giving companies and individuals the opportunity to showcase smaller budget projects, and the large impact they have.

Divisional Director David Griffiths said: the quality and quantity of entries has been incredible, and we are delighted to see so many new entrants.

There were so many amazing examples of projects that delivered and demonstrated the technical ability and problemsolving skills of our sector.

Congratulations to our category winners, you have beaten some stiff competition.

The moment finally arrived when the category we had been shortlisted for, supported by IRO Timber, was announced, and we were delighted to learn we had won the Award for the Best Temporary Installation for our RHS Chelsea Container Garden!

We feel very proud and honored to have been awarded this prize but, it is not just about Andrew and me. We had an amazing team behind us at RHS Chelsea Flower Show who helped make this garden possible, so our thanks go out to them, we could not have done it without you! Until next time, Julie.

36 THE VISITOR December 2023

When Smoke Gets in your Eyes L.P-V explores the Enigmatic Allure of Smoky Whiskies and Wines NOW THAT the clocks have gone back and the nights are encroaching ever earlier in the day, we are in for long-drawn-out nights over the next few months.

Shops and hospitality businesses have had their Christmas wares on display for weeks, and with conflict raging worldwide, there seems to be not much to look forward to between now and the end of the year. So with chimneys swept and woodburners alight, I have been reflecting on those drinks that will provide the perfect warming foil to the smokiness of the fire.

Scotch whisky, often hailed as the "water of life", boasts an extensive spectrum of flavours and aromas that captivate connoisseurs worldwide. Among the many distinctive styles of Scotch, smoky whiskies stand out for their bold and unique character. These whiskies, largely born from the peat-rich landscapes of Scotland, offer a captivating journey into the world of whisky appreciation. With their distinguishing flavours and aromas, they provide a stimulating exploration for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers to the whisky scene.

Whether sipped by a crackling fireplace or savoured while gazing out at the rugged Scottish coastline, smoky Scotch whiskies offer an unforgettable experience.

The smoky character that defines certain Scotch whiskies can be traced back to the heart of Scotland's whisky-producing regions, particularly Islay and the Highlands. These areas are renowned for their peat-rich soil, which imparts the signature smokiness to the whiskies produced there.

These remarkable spirits are a testament to the craft and tradition that goes into creating whisky, with their own specific characteristics.

Peat, a partially decayed organic material found in these regions, is historically used as fuel for drying malted barley.

During the malting process, the

barley grains absorb the peat's distinct smoky flavours, which are then transferred to the whisky during fermentation and ageing. The peat smoke can range from delicate wisps to bold, brash smokiness, depending on the distillery's practices and the peat's source.

Many smoky Scotches also exhibit medicinal qualities, reminiscent of bandages, iodine, or even antiseptic. This peculiar facet often combines with earthy and vegetal undertones.

Whiskies from coastal distilleries frequently carry hints of saltiness, offering a briny, oceanic dimension to the smoky profile, whilst some smoky whiskies offer a surprising contrast with notes of citrus, orchard fruits, or dried fruits, balancing the intensity of the peat. Ageing also plays a key part in the final taste of the whisky.

As the whiskies age in oak barrels, which typically will have been previously used for sherry, cognac, or sauternes, they develop layers of spice and oak, contributing depth and complexity to the overall flavour profile.

When it comes to downing a wee dram or two, to fully savour their nuances, consider other aspects such as the glassware used; opt for a tulip-shaped whisky glass or a Glencairn tasting glass to concentrate the aromas and capture the intricate nuances.

Many whisky drinkers prefer to drink their whisky neat (as do I) to experience the full intensity, while others add a small amount of water to open up the flavours and aromas.

When it comes to food, smoky whiskies pair wonderfully with hearty, smoky, or grilled foods; ideal for your BBQ then, or think smoked salmon or aged cheeses.

Experiment with different distilleries and expressions to discover your favourites.

Islay, often referred to as the "Mecca of Peat", is synonymous with intensely smoky Scotch whiskies. Iconic distilleries like Ardbeg, Laphroaig, and Lagavulin produce whiskies that are celebrated for their potent peatiness, briny sea air, and medicinal undertones. These whiskies often evoke images of a bonfire on a windswept, coastal beach.

Benromach 2009 Bottled 2018 Peat Smoke – 46%abv. - £46.95

Ardbeg 10 Years Old Single Malt Islay Scotch Whisky – 46%abv. - £48.50

While the Highlands region is vast and diverse, it is home to several distilleries that produce smoky Scotch whiskies. Talisker, situated on the Isle of Skye, offers a perfect example of Highland smokiness. The whisky from this distillery combines maritime influences with a distinctive peaty character.

Talisker Skye Single Malt Scotch Whisky 45.8%abv. - £48

Laphroaig Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 10-Year-Old – 40%abv. - £39

Keen observers will notice the focus on ‘Scotch’ rather than its Irish whiskey cousin (always spelt with an a ‘e’). There are peated Irish whiskeys on the market, but the raw materials used in these bottlings do not come from the Emerald Isle.

There is some good news on the horizon, however. Waterford Whisky is set to release a pair of peated Irish single malts this autumn; poised to become the first modern Irish whiskeys to be made from Irish barley that smoked with sultry Irish peat.

Not yet available in the UK, I shall be looking out for its release.

Connemara Peated Irish Whiskey – 40%abv. - £39.20

Though Speyside is primarily known for its sweet and fruity Scotch whiskies, it is not immune to smoky expressions. Speyside distilleries like BenRiach and Benromach occasionally produce peated whiskies that add a smoky twist to the region's more typical offerings.

Lagavulin 8 Year Single Malt Whisky 48%abv. - £52.50

BenRiach The Original Ten Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky – 43%abv. - £42

Teeling Blackpitts Peated Single Malt Whiskey 46%abv. - £58.95

Whisky not to your taste?

Among the myriad of wine profiles, there exists a category that holds a distinct and enchanting character - smoky wines. These wines, often associated with earthiness and complexity, have a special charm that draws us into their smoky embrace.

Smoky wines, those that

exhibit prominent smoky notes in their aroma and flavour profiles, obtain this characteristic primarily due to the winemaking process and the terroir from which the grapes are harvested.

One common method of imparting this characteristic is aging the wine in oak barrels which have been charred, as it imparts a subtle smokiness, along with vanilla and spice notes, creating a harmonious balance in the final product.

The geography and climate of the vineyard plays a significant role in the development of smoky flavours in wines. Grapes grown in regions with volcanic soil, or near areas prone to wildfires, may pick up smoky nuances from the environment itself.

Several grape varietals are renowned for their natural propensity to produce wines with smoky characteristics. Here are some to look out for: Syrah/Shiraz is often associated with rich, dark, and smoky wines and can exhibit an array of smoky flavours, including hints of black pepper and tobacco.

Cabernet Sauvignon, especially if aged in oak barrels, can develop smoky undertones.

These wines often feature a combination of dark fruit flavours and subtle smokiness.

Malbec wines from certain regions, such as Argentina, may display smoky notes, enhancing their complexity and appeal.

Pinot Noir, while typically known for its lighter, fruitforward profile, may display a delicate smokiness in some wines from cool-climate regions.

The smoky notes in the wine can complement or contrast various dishes when paired with food: They are a natural fit with barbecue dishes, enhancing the earthy, smoky flavours of grilled meats, game such as venison or wild duck, and charred vegetables. Rich, creamy cheeses like smoked Gouda or aged cheddar can harmonise with the smokiness in the wine, and the bold flavours of spicy foods, like Cajun or Mexican dishes are a natural match.

Smoky whiskies and wines offer a unique tasting experience, adding depth and complexity as they bring together the craftsmanship of makers and the natural beauty of the terroir, creating a symphony of flavours and aromas that linger long after the last sip.

So, next time you are looking to savour something distinctive and captivating, let its smoky embrace transport you.

THE VISITOR December 2023 37

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER IS IT ME? Every time I turn on the radio and television I'm bombarded with stories of doom and gloom, designed to inject fear into each and every one of us!

Not only that but there's also the latest and brightest politician on the block who is ready to save us all. Well; how kind.

Strangely I find that by leaving the radio and television off I have a much more pleasant day... perhaps it is me, but whatever sort of day I have, the mood is always lifted when I head off to

one of our favourite pubs. I've noticed how busy the pubs have been too, although maybe I have just picked times when they are just that, but it gives me reason to be optimistic about the future of our fine hostelries. We're fortunate in having such a variety in our area – I hope you have too – and every now and again we head off further afield to explore in the hinterland.

It was the first time for some while that my great mate Phil and I had a 'lads away-day' and made a manned landing at The Cross Keys at Lydford by lunchtime. This was our first visit for more than five years and is a CAMRA 'Good Beer Guide' regular, and frankly it's hardly surprising. Friendly staff, excellent fayre and a fine selection of ales, although as driver they were off the radar for me. They do have a 'house beer' as well, although this is not brewed on the premises, but comes from a brewery within the region. Unfortunately I didn't note which one, but having read its qualities, I did sense that it would not be something either of us would ever consume, and a little taster proved it, being far too citrusy for our 'mature taste buds'!

The long skittle alley at the Cross Keys, Lydford.

The bar area at the Cross Keys, Lydford 38 THE VISITOR December 2023

A mystery game. Any ideas?

It really is a fantastic pub, with comedy nights, live music, beer festivals and charity events. (and horror of horrors – camping!)

Ales are generally from the Bristol Beer Factory, O'Hanlons and Hop Back. Being me, I asked to be shown the skittle alley, and snapped a couple pictures of this well used facility for the record on my 'Pub Games' site on Facebook. It was noted that the scoreboard still carried the legend Ask for Bruttons “Double Crown”.

Bruttons being a Brewery of Yeovil that ceased brewing almost 60 years ago! It was also great to hear that five regular teams use the alley, a building separate to the main pub. Do pay a visit, and enquire about the time the pub declared themselves a 'RePUBlic'.

Brilliant!

Once replete we headed off for a wonderful afternoon at Haynes Motor Museum near Sparkford for our first visit in a very long time. As regular readers of Rod Hann's section, plus the Editorial of the November issue of this fine tome, we learned there would be a vintage motor-cycle section. My mate was particularly keen having been a motorcyclist his whole life. Meanwhile in amongst the fantastic cars was a bright yellow Porsche Carrera 6 from the early 1970's, which my brother informs me was the car he used as the company runabout when he worked at Haynes back in that decade. Was it really wise to let a 19 year old loose in this machine? (Keep that to yourselves, please...)

I was a little shocked at the entry price but it transpired that the ticket gives one unlimited visits for a year; a feature we already have taken advantage of.

Highly recommended, do make the most of a visit.

As a member of the CAMRA members investment club (CMIC) some interesting figures are bandied about with each quarter's report, as can only be imagined in these. We are still in the midst

of what the politicians describe as a 'recession' and the value of the fund has its ups and downs.

According to 'UK Hospitality', 35% of people say they are spending less on going out and some even saying that figure is 65%. Sadly, we see the number of pubs continue to drop, now down to around 46,000 which is about 15% lower than 10 years ago (British Pub and Beer Association) and cask beer (real ale, that is) down about 15% on 2019. In June the accountancy firm Mazars reported some 45 breweries ceased to trade in the 12 months to March 2023 and Government statistics show that 383 pubs permanently closed during the first six months of this year (roughly two a day). These figures are depressing for many of us, and one must feel empathy to those whose entire livelihood depend on the hospitality industry. It is particularly galling when in these lean times we read of massive and even recordbreaking profits for some industries, and massive payments to their CEO's as well.

Clearly then, when they talk of a recession, it is not a recession for some.

Despite all that, as stated earlier, we've seen some busy pubs, and hope that the turnover has been sufficient to pay those ever-increasing bills – and enough to live on.

An attractive badge for certain achievers!

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER Our local pub The Rose and Crown in Bradford Abbas has added beers from the Camden Brewery, clearly approved by the pub's owners, Admiral Taverns.

The picture with my part-finished pint of Doom Bar shows the distinctive glasses from said brewers, and somewhat mindboggling, they hold a half-pint and a pint. They certainly are taking a new tack here, perhaps inspired by the Belgians who have a branded glass for every beer. Keen to try their ale (keg) it is of the well-hopped and citrussy type, which is not for me, but has already won fans in our skittle team. The other is a stout which was somewhat of a surprise. Sold at 20p under the price of Guinness I was initially enthusiastic but the long smoky finish sadly was not to my taste either. The Camden Brewery website has a paucity of information on its creation so I can tell you nothing more than

this other than the ABV which is 4.4%. However, I do recommend giving it a try though, one never knows how the search for that perfect pint will go!

Do you like a packet of crisps with that beer you're drinking?

Yes, me too. A couple months back we posted a chart on crisps to match with beer (available at The Visitor online if you missed it) Those of you who subscribe to Which? will have already seen this, but even if one doesn't get the full issue, some articles are readily accessible and a recent edition went into great detail about the quality of our favourite crisps, and the top one came from the Co-op. Several of the other top rated crisps came form the budget supermarkets all of which we concur. The report is certainly worth checking out.

The monthly article on wine by the enthusiast Linda PiggottVijeh often makes me wonder if I am missing something, but the call of decent ales is always the stronger and I give into it.

Nevertheless, I am more likely to give something a little try thanks to her writings, even if that pint does give me more enjoyment.

Another article on the subject that attracted my attention is that world-wide wine production is down by between 10%-30% depending on country, and the lowest since 1961. It's not all bad news though as the International Organisation for Vine and Wine think it could bring 'equilibrium' as stocks are also high. Certainly in England there have been vineyards with so many grapes the wineries cannot cope! It's an ill wind that blows nobody any good, as the old saying goes.

Since mentioning Shuffleboard

in the last monthly offering I have had zero reaction from you good people out there in games-land.

Games manufacturer and distributor James Masters of Masters Games, St Albans, took his staff to a shuffleboard club in London for a staff outing (blimey; would I like to work for an employer like that!) I have yet to hear a full report on it but please do keep an eye out for the game in your local pub; I would love to hear more about it in the tabletop version.

Do visit the Masters Games website for ideas on Christmas presents for your nearest and dearest by the way. James is a big supporter of pubs and a games expert. There is a very interesting video on YouTube where he traces the history of bagatelle.

Meanwhile, I wish you all a Happy Christmas and that Santa brings you something that will give you lots of fun throughout the year. So turn off the television, turn off the radio and head for your local, and remember; a pub is for life, not just for Christmas! Cheers! © P.A Baxter 2023. skittlealley@hotmail.com Solution to November Sudoku

They Say That an apology is owed to any Yeovil residents that were offended by this column last month.

That in Bradford Abbas the Royal Mail has found a brilliant way of eliminating huge amounts of post over the Christmas period.

That the busiest Christmas Stall at the recent Whitelackington Christmas Sale was the Bacon Butties Stall, expertly cooked

by Santa Clause.

That with a seemingly lack of Prune Juice in local supermarkets, there has obviously been a run on it.

That with the recent inclement weather, many regular golfers are experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

That the recent BBC Children in Need telethon raised over £33.5 million on the night, which just goes to prove that the United Kingdom will pull-together and dig-deep to help good causes, despite the current economic climate.

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 31

1) Take That 2) Chic 3) Sledgehammer – Peter Gabriel 4) Lenny Kravitz 5) The Who 6) Deacon Blue 7) 'Is There Something I Should Know' 8) 1995 9) Rose Royce 10) Natasha Bedingfield Bonus Question: 1987

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Vinny is not often lost for words, but ...

On the bar at the Rose and Crown Bradford Abbas.

THE VISITOR December 2023 39

REMEMBER WHEN ... ... 30 YEARS AGO FROM Getting it taped

WITH Christmas fast approaching, several advertisements in the December 1993 Visitor were promoting home entertainment for the festive season. Those were the days before DVDs and access to films and television programmes via the internet, the days when videotapes and video recorders reigned supreme for people who didn’t want to be limited to the scheduled entertainment provided by the TV channels. One advertiser had video recorders ranging in price from £339 to £529 ‘with free installation’, and another had ‘over 2,000 videos to choose from’ including ‘all the latest releases – “Cliffhanger”, “Groundhog Day”, “Fire in the Sky” – available to rent or buy’.

And you could buy an ‘easy-touse one-step programmer’ that ‘allows you to record your favourite television, satellite or cable programmes by entering into the handset the video number found next to the television programme listings in most newspapers or magazines’.

It was claimed to be ‘foolproof video programming for around £50, available from most high street electrical retailers’.

Good sports in Wincanton

Good news from Wincanton appeared in the December issue.

A large new sports ground being developed by the Wincanton Recreational Trust had reached the stage where drainage of the 48-acre site between Moor Lane and Common Road had been completed and the first football matches were played on two temporary pitches on 10th October. And a temporary hockey pitch was also in use. The report revealed that ‘road access to the site has still to be tarmacked and due to the popularity of the site, plans to extend the car park have already been put into operation’.

It added that ‘the temporary club building is well on the way to completion’ and ‘houses the ladies and gents changing rooms, showers/toilets, kitchen area, club room and bar’.

Youthful enterprise too

More good news from Wincanton in the same issue was that a 40 THE VISITOR December 2023

scheme to provide a Youth Centre for local teenagers already had a membership around 50. Named The Siftings, it is ‘open Monday to Thursday, the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed and is under the adult supervision (but not interference) of Elfrida Vaughan, who is the Wincanton Area Youth Worker’. According to the Visitor report ‘the Centre has a sitting room, kitchen and games room with table tennis and darts board’ and ‘artistic licence has been allowed with the addition of murals which are gradually covering the walls’. It also stated that ‘with several young mums amongst the membership, the suggestion of a creche sounded like a good idea, so with a £500 grant from the council to help with the building work and a £500 grant from the Prince’s Trust towards equipping the creche, the young m u m s proceeded to hold raffles and jumble sales to raise the extra m o n e y required to add an extra room to the Centre’.

Last post?

Do you remember the days when Visitorland had an e v e n i n g newspaper? The Evening Post arrived at local newsagents every afternoon except Sunday and claimed to be ‘the best for Somerset News’, but by 1993 our part of Somerset seldom got so much as a mention.

An article in the December Visitor revealed that ‘when the Post dispensed with the services of a Yeovil-based reporter last year the coverage of South Somerset news shrank to a trickle, sourced via the paper’s Taunton-based reporters. Now even that has dried up, and with

fewer local newsagents bothering to stock the Post a large area is left without an evening paper.’

The writer wondered whether that mattered. ‘Don’t we get a surfeit of news every evening on regional TV and local radio?

Aren’t we plagued with enough newsprint thrust through our letterboxes each week without making further demands on Scandinavian forests?’. His view as ‘one brought up on a local evening paper to be read and talked about at leisure after tea – and fought over for the crossword’ was ‘there’s an unwelcome gap in life which TV cannot fill. I fear that the proliferation breakfast TV shows could bode ill for the future of regional daily newspapers too, and that would really be a tragedy.’

ARCHIVES Winter warmer

It wouldn’t be environmentally acceptable these days, but in the December 1993 Visitor it was claimed that ‘a winter of content means a winter warmed by oil’.

Describing oil as ‘a fuel for the modern home in the 90s’, the article noted that ‘oil is cheaper than it was ten years ago in what politicians and economists call “real terms”’ and that ‘modern oil-fired boilers are every bit as versatile as installations fuelled by any other source of energy’. It concluded that ‘it costs no more than a phone call to have your local distributor advise you on the benefits of oil-fired central heating’.

Roger Richards.

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

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● SALES ● SERVICING ● REPAIRS ● INSTALLATIONS Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EW Tel: 01935 813451 www.goddenandcurtis.co.uk

THE VISITOR December 2023 41

Classified Ads Send details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, BA9 0BP or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential. Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit/Debit Card.

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www.country-link.co.uk COUNTRY LINK SOCIAL GROUP. Fresh air, fun, food and friendship. Tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Lynda 07970 922762 RICHARD WLTM lady 40s/50s, smallish, leftish, for friendship/relationship 07377 897909

STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles.

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

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Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Monday 11th December.

Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn.

The prize for winning the Crossword is a £15 voucher to spend with any advertiser in this issue of The Visitor. Please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

Wanted DAVE BUYS ALL TYPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables. Daves Tools, Est. 1989. Tel: 01935 428975 REDUNDANT MOTOR MOWERS, rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844

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

COLLECTIONS CDS and Vinyl LPs - must be excellent condition, most genres c o n s i d e r e d . Te l : 0 1 4 5 8 8 3 4 1 0 2 / 07704229979/email: tonyartony@aol.com

WHY NOT READ ONLINE:

DIESEL GENERATORS. Any make/model.

Top prices paid. Tel: 07970 742471 1950s/70s PLASTIC TOY Soldiers, knights, cowboys, loose/boxed. Britain’s Plastic Garden, Timpo Trains. Tel: 07823 443474

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Prize Crossword No. 445

Xmas/Jan Deadline: 11th Dec Monthly Subscription Get your copy delivered each month for £30 per year. Send cheque to: The Visitor, PO Box 5522, Castle Cary BA9 0BP or Tel: 01963 351256

Clues Across: 7. The Unenthusiastic cite a path [9] 8. Scare small boy with weapon [5] 10. Factional adherent traps Ian [8] 11. See 2 down.

12. Distraught elderly lady’s residence [4] 13. Grow rapidly with tea scale confusion [8] 16. Encourage a wager [4] 18. Annex finish with a number of supplements [7] 20. 19th letter about cloak runs out [7] 22. Swindle slope [4] 24. Plumbing problems with damaged soil rack [8] 26. Sure about employer? [4] 29. Wave from trip pleasure-craft [6] 30. Track entrance to where baggage goes [8] 31. Below with French article before the German [5] 32. I face slut with aptitudes [9] Clues Down: 1. Cover with droplets in special short beam [5] 2 & 11. Save 9 with way to be irritated promptly [6, 2, 4] 3. Resting place in county with confusion of date [8] 4. Can I fee bride to be? [7] 5. Fill a lot of ships [8] 6. Ah! Tame air about biblical town of Joseph! [9]

9. Record is held by current [4] 14. Stop support [4] 15. 18 as tin Dido [9] 17. Ship heard from dog [4] 19. Overshadowed, spliced onto rope end [8] 21. Encourage promises of payment to be bogus [8] 23. Smokers’ companion lost around hospital [7] 25. Sailors made ‘wake-up’ sound [4] 27. Height confused 0.125 [6] 28. Guide young ox [5]

Solution to Crossword 444

Winner of the November Crossword is Sally Head of Langport who chose to spend the £15 voucher at Pure Punjabi North Indian Cookery School, Tintinhull.

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH

SOS to all air rifles and pistols any make or model. Any condition.

WE COLLECT IN ANY AREA, TOP PRICES PAID IN CASH ALSO GUNS ALSO GUNSSOLD SOLD

42 THE VISITOR December 2023

07970 742471

ALSOGUNS GUNSSOLD SOLD ALSO