The Visitor Magazine Issue 482 Christmas/January 2024

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

Issue 482 Christmas/January 2024

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In Passing...

A

nother year draws to a close.

A year of high inflation and interest rates, of soaring food and energy costs. A year of industrial unrest and strikes in several of our essential services. A year of recriminations in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic. A year when the climate produced widespread flooding, landslips, forest fires and droughts in many parts of the world. A year of increasingly bitter armed conflict in The Ukraine and in Palestine. A year when little progress seemed to have been made in combatting global warming, reducing illegal immigration and resolving the financial crisis in the provision of social care for children and adults. Not a year to be remembered with much fondness.

But it was not without a couple of events that shouldn’t be forgotten. The coronation of King Charles III in May proved to the world how good we are when it comes to producing pomp and ceremony, and how most of the British entered into the spirit of the occasion with countless local celebrations. And our new King is clearly passionate about environmental issues and speaks freely about them on the international stage, even though he has hardly any influence on our own inept Government.

The other event worth remembering was more local, the 40th anniversary of The Visitor, an occasion marked modestly by a small flash across the corner of the front cover of last November’s issue. Patrick Dunion and friends founded The New Castle Cary and District Visitor in the aftermath of a controversy in the town regarding badgers, and the first issue of this free monthly magazine appeared in November 1983. It was based on its predecessor, The Castle Cary Visitor which was published for 19 years from 1896 till 1915 and which nowadays provides an indispensable source of snippets about the town, its people and its social history. Such was the demand from potential readers and advertisers that the circulation area

of the new magazine expanded considerably within a few years, north to Shepton Mallet, Wells and Glastonbury, west to Langport and Ilminster, south to Crewkerne and Sturminster Newton, and east to Shaftesbury and Mere. Over the years this entire area has become affectionately known to readers as Visitorland.

Sadly Patrick died unexpectedly and prematurely in 1991. His wife Helen, ably assisted by a small production team, kept the magazine alive through a further 30 years of economic recessions and predictions that electronic publishing would spell the death of printed magazines, and in 2014 they transformed it from a monochrome newsprint journal into a glossy full-colour publication. Even during the pandemic lockdowns the magazine continued to appear every month. Now, as another year draws to a close, the Visitor has far outlived its predecessor and is edited and produced in print and digital formats by Max Dunion, Helen and Patrick’s son. That’s an achievement well worth celebrating.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines February Issue Deadline: 22nd Jan Published: 31st Jan

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. 2024

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

CONTENTS A HEALTHY NEW YEAR ‑ 16 ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED ‑ 34 ANTIQUES ‑ 21 CROSSWORD ‑ 34 GARDENING ‑ 26 HOUSE & HOME ‑ 22 LAST MINUTE GIFT GUIDE ‑ 18 LEISURE ‑ 20 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ‑ 4 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES ‑ 5 MOTORING ‑ 15 NOTICE BOARD ‑ 31 PHONE‑A‑FIRM ‑ 33 POP QUIZ ‑ 21 PUBS ‑ 30

NOTE TO ADVERTISERS

REMEMBER WHEN ‑ 32

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

SEASONS GREETINGS ‑ 14

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

WINE & DINE ‑ 28

SUDOKU ‑ 20 THEY SAY ‑ 31

Cartoons by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 3

Octagon Theatre

Sir, I read with interest 'In Passing' in your December issue. My wife and I have visited the Octagon frequently for many years, rarely was it absolutely full and when so the adjacent car park was full.

It has been suggested that the

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

4 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

Ninesprings car park would be used as an overflow but not many people would have been happy to walk from there to the Octagon especially on a wet dark night.

The ill fated decision to enlarge the Octagon to 900 or so seats would have meant greater overheads and frequent under use. Yeovil's catchment area cannot support two venues and Westland without major alterations could not be considered as a theatre, Yeovil simply cannot afford two entertainment hubs.

I have been in contact with the Somerset Council about the demise of the Octagon and it would appear there is a glimmer of hope it may be restored with minor much needed improvements.

Spending in excess of £26 million pounds on a local theatre was madness and would like most public sector projects run well over budget, just reopen our much loved Octagon as soon as possible.

Stan Shayler Yeovil

Mentioned in

Dispatches ROKiT Choir are singing their way into the Christmas season in aid of mental health charity BADco.

NOTHING says Christmas like a good old Christmas album. And this year ROKiT choir have teamed up with Shaftesbury based ‘The Brave and Determined Charity’ to spread the holiday cheers with their first ever CD. ‘Mental health is a cause that the choir is very passionate about supporting’ explains Mark James, ROKiT’s founder and choir director. ‘One of the reasons that the choir was formed and does not hold auditions or turn anyone away is we understand the positive effects that singing can have on your mental wellbeing’.

ROKiT choir was formed 5 years ago and is made up of choirs from Gillingham, Blandford and Wincanton and hosts all age ranges and abilities with an emphasis on having fun rather than being too serious.

‘Making an album with the

choir has always been a goal of mine’ says Mark, ‘They work so hard at the music it is great for them to have a way of being able to hear it for themselves and also share it with friends and family without having to wait for live performances’ Although ROKiT have hosted many charity events and raised over £10,000 for causes from local to international appeals such as the Ukrainian and Turkey Earthquake appeals, it was a personal tragedy from one of its members that hit the choir in the summer of this year that brought them together with BADco. ‘When you talk about it, you find out that so many people have been affected by mental health.

This could be personally or through a family member that has suffered. With this album we hope to be able to raise enough funds to allow BADco to put as many people though one to one counselling as possible, this is definitely the time of year we need to think of those that are suffering’.

The production costs of ROKiT Around the Christmas Tree has been funded by the choir themselves and along with the kindness of Sherborne School, for donating the space to record in, and Howard Bullivant from The

ROKiT choir on recording day at Sherborne school with the BADco flag and Mark James laying on the floor and CD Cover design.

Ice House Studio, for helping both record and mix the track, it means that 100% of the profit goes directly to BADco. The album itself is a collection of fun Christmas songs, some of which have a bit of a twist.

Another track to appear on the album in Bridge Over Troubled Water. ‘We wanted a song that sums up the charity and there really isn’t any better than this’ says Mark.

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Mentioned in

Dispatches Coles Yard in Wincanton and Sherborne, Riversmeet leisure centre in Gillingham, The Factory Outlet shop in Blandford or The

Black Cactus Café in Shaftesbury. All the venues have agreed to sell the CD for no commission.

You can also download the Album from www.rokitchoir.com if you do not have access to a CD player.

If you need help, would like to find out how to access the BADco services or would like to discuss the charity please visit www.badco.uk.

Arts Society Mendip upcoming lectures

Tuesday 9th January - The Two Gustavs: Mahler and Klimt.

Gavin Plumley, writer and broadcaster, will describe how Klimt and colleagues broke with the imperial institutions of Vienna in the same year that Mahler took over the Opera House.

He examines these two talents asking, within their contexts, what links or divides their art.

The talk will begin at 11.00am in Croscombe Village Hall (please note that this lecture will not be available on Zoom).

Tuesday 6th February Edward Seago: from Circus to Sandringham. James Russell, curator and writer, will talk about this popular artist who was overlooked by the critics of his day. His life story is also full of interest; amongst his friends were royalty, to which can be added a

colourful wartime career and a trip to Antarctica in the Royal Yacht. The talk will begin at 11.00am in Croscombe Village Hall (and simultaneously via Zoom – a link will be sent to members and guests). Guests are welcome for a fee of £10.

Alternatively, annual membership covering 10 lectures is £53pp or £102 for a couple.

Further details and full programme available on our website; www.theartssociety mendip.org.uk.

Martock & District u3a meet 2nd Wednesday of month at Martock Parish Hall

Next Meeting - 14th February – How to Catch Flu, retired Professor of Virology helps us avoid the virus -2:15 for 2:30 start.

A record £3,403,960 donated by the National Garden Scheme to some of the UK’s best-loved nursing and health charities

2023 proved to be a record year for the National Garden Scheme with £3,403,960 donated to the charity’s beneficiaries. This represents a superlative achievement by the garden owners and county team volunteers who together worked tirelessly to host open days at 3,389 gardens across the year.

The lion’s share, £2,475,000 goes to some of the UK’s bestloved nursing and health charities, many of which have continued to provide vital support to the NHS and communities across the UK in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and who are now struggling to provide services in the new cost of living crisis.

The long-term nature of funding from the National Garden Scheme allows these charities to continue the provision of critical community nursing services, endof-life care and respite for families and carers across the UK. Commenting, National Garden Scheme Chairman Rupert Tyler said: “As the nation’s health and social care system continues to

6 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

Mentioned in

Dispatches battle with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and with deeply embedded systemic challenges, the contribution of the charities that we support has been increasingly vital. Their reach and impact, in cancer and end of life care, in community health and nursing and in particular areas such as people living with Parkinson’s, is immense and we are proud to be a major long-term supporter of them all.”

The National Garden Scheme relies primarily on the income generated by admission at its garden gates and through the sale of plants, teas and cake.

Additional income streams include fundraising events such as online talks, garden parties, and commercial partnerships.

2023 also saw key funding milestones including half a million pounds donated to Horatio’s Garden and a pledge to provide a further three years of funding for horticultural related assistance for soldiers, veterans and their immediate families delivered through the Army Benevolent Fund.

“We know that the long-term continuity of our funding year on year is very unusual, and our beneficiaries have emphasised that this is a key quality in the support we are able to give to them. It is something of which we are enormously proud,” added George Plumptre. “By way of an example, 2024 will see us mark 40 years and over £19 million of funding for Macmillan Cancer Support.”

The National Garden Scheme is looking ahead to 2024 with optimism and the opening of over 3,500 gardens across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands. It will also see the charity return to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show with a show garden designed by Tom StuartSmith and fully funded by Project Giving Back.

For details of how donations are spent please refer to the Impact Report 2023 – an online version can be found here: https://bit.ly/NGSImpactReport 2023.

reflections in the swimming pond, the first to be built in Dorset. The new acre has been planted with several unusual trees. Grotto, old Victorian man pushing his lawn mower which his owner purchased brand new in 1866.

Pond dipping, swing and other children's attractions. Cakes inc gluten free, and vegans are also catered for. Not suitable for wheelchairs if very wet.

Open: Fri 16, Sun 18 Feb (2pm

-5pm) Adm £5, chd free. Homemade teas in garden but inside if very wet in winter. Visits also by arrangement 2 Jan to 3 Dec. Location: 4½miles S of Shaftesbury, 3½miles N of Sturminster Newton. On B3091 between 90 degree bend & layby with defibrillator red phone box.

Parking is on the opp corner towards Hartgrove. www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

National Garden Scheme next open garden:The Old Vicarage, East Orchard, Shaftesbury SP7 0BA

Owner: Miss Tina Wright. 1.7 acre and new 1.1 acre wildlife garden with hundreds of different snowdrops, crocus and many other bulbs and winter flowering shrubs. A stream meanders down to a pond and there are lovely

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

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Mentioned in

Dispatches Hall & Woodhouse to open its doors to tackle loneliness in Dorset this Christmas

Independent family brewer, Hall & Woodhouse, is offering a complimentary three-course meal for locals who will be spending Christmas alone this year. Across its estate of pubs, over 50 managed houses from Devon to Hertfordshire are taking part in the ‘Community Christmas Table’ initiative.

The concept promises to host Christmas dinner for more than 300 people in the UK who would otherwise be alone on Christmas

Day. Those benefitting from the initiative will be able to come together with other people in a similar situation to enjoy a free Christmas lunch with a drink of their choice and some jolly community spirit. In Dorset, The Smuggler’s Inn, Weymouth, and The Olive Branch, Wimborne, and several other pubs will have tables reserved for six people on Christmas Day. Places for Hall & Woodhouse’s

‘Community Christmas Table’ initiative are secured on a first come, first serve basis, with waiting lists available in case of cancellation. Guests can request a seat for themselves or be nominated by another party.

Simply call, email, or direct message one of the participating pubs on social media. To read more about Hall & Woodhouse’s Christmas events visit www.hallwoodhouse.co.uk.

Wells Comedy Festival reveal even more of the country’s top comedy names coming to Somerset

The new announcement includes two work-in-progress shows from Harry Hill and a new stand-up show from Rich Hall, plus shows from Taskmaster champion Sophie Duker and Live at the Apollo star Kiri PritchardMcLean.

Also joining the festival line-

Independent Dorset-based family brewer, Hall & Woodhouse.

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 9

Mentioned in

Dispatches up are Nick Helm (Uncle, Live at the Apollo), Desiree Burch (Live at the Apollo, QI), Amy Gledhill (Hypothetical, The Jonathan Ross Show), Ian Smith (The News Quiz, The Now Show), Michael Odewale (Live at the Apollo, Mock The Week), Alison Spittle (The Guilty Feminist podcast) and Pat Cahill (8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, The Now Show).

They all join the already

announced James Acaster, John Kearns and Jessica Fostekew.

Tickets are selling fast for the festival’s four gala performances, each featuring a surprise line-up of comics from across the festival.

All shows on sale at www.wellscomfest.com.

Christmas Concert in Mere

Gillingham Imperial Silver Band held a Christmas Concert on Sunday 10th at 3pm in the United Reformed Church, Mere.

Refreshments and a raffle were provided. Singing along to some lovely Christmas music and Carols. The youth played for a time, very nice to see.

Voluntary donations were taken for the band and equally for the recently improved and

Mere Christmas Concert. Image: George Jeans.

converted URC Church building, which when used as a community building makes a good venue, which was commented on during

the performance. After Covid a lot of work has been done to increase the bands numbers.

More players are still required please contact Steve Ingham 01747 822581 or steveingham 101@gmail.com.

Castle Gardens and Brimsmore Gardens take 1st and 2nd in national Christmas competition

With The Gardens Group’s Christmas displays now in full swing, the Garden Centre Association (GCA) has announced that Castle Gardens in Sherborne has been awarded first prize in its national Christmas Competition, with Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil taking second place. This comes off the back of Brimsmore Gardens taking top honours in 2022, following ten wins for Castle Gardens in the preceding years.

Having been in the planning since January and consciously constructed behind closed doors over a three week period, all three of The Gardens Group’s Christmas displays were highly praised by GCA judges this year.

Currently open to the public seven days a week until Christmas Eve, this year’s Christmas displays at The Gardens Group incorporate heartwarming themes including a frosty Christmas walk, a gingerbread house, an enchanted forest and a peaceful Christmas.

Devised and managed by The Gardens Group director, Louise Burks, these magical winter wonderlands feature more ecofriendly initiatives and products than ever before, including walkways constructed using repurposed and recycled materials, glass baubles, twinkly LED lights, recycled candles and plastic free toys.

The Gardens Group’s Christmas displays are open to the public seven days a week until Christmas Eve, at Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil, 10 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

Mentioned in

Dispatches Castle Gardens in Sherborne and Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester.

Dorset charity’s Xmas appeal

A local Dorset charity has launched an innovative Christmas campaign to try to raise £10,000 this year to support bereaved children across Dorset.

Dorset law firm Blanchards Bailey are supporting the charity Mosaic – supporting bereaved children in a ground-breaking partnership. They worked with Fathom, local branding agency to produce a Christmas campaign video and the production involved children, festive jumpers and a brilliantly coordinated light spectacular with a drone.

Ben Jones, partner at Blanchards Bailey said:“We created this special festive film to celebrate the amazing work that Mosaic do, help raise awareness of the services they provide and encourage donations to Mosaic’s Christmas appeal.

Rather than sending Christmas cards and gifts to clients and contacts this year, we will be making a special donation to Mosaic’s Christmas Appeal.”

Seasonal fundraising events enable Mosaic to offer a year-long programme of therapy for children and young people who have been bereaved or who are facing the loss of a loved one.

Mosaic also runs fundraising activities to do more to meet the demand for their services.

Jo Revill – CEO at Mosaic said: “This Christmas, Mosaic is asking you to click - donate - support share - to help make a difference to a bereaved child.

Anything you can afford will help, whether it’s the cost of cards this Christmas, one less box of chocolates, the price of a hot chocolate or anything you can afford will help.”

Mosaic has been helping bereaved families for many years, and also offers opportunities to children & young people for them to try new activities from rock climbing to sailing while building relationships with people in similar situations. Last year, the charity supported more than 400 children and young people who had been bereaved. The charity

offers bereavement training to schools across Dorset and runs a host of activities to support their mission.

To donate to the Mosaic Christmas Campaign and see the video – please visit: www .justgiving.com/campaign/mosaic christmas2023. For further information on the charity, visit: www.mosaicfamilysupport.org.

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 11

Nynehead Court.

Nynehead Court

“I needed somewhere that Dad would feel like he was having a break/holiday … here he has good company, stimulation and was treated with care and respect.”

Every resident at Nynehead Court is treated with the same high level of care, whether they are a permanent resident or simply with them for a respite stay. That means they receive the same personalised care, delicious meals prepared by their chefs, and can participate in the varied activities programme.

The tailored grounds can be enjoyed throughout the seasons and the team of gardeners ensure

12 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

that they are always looking their best, from snowdrops in Winter to daffodils in Spring, and fragrant roses in Summer. There is always something new to enjoy!

To discuss a respite or longterm stay at Nynehead Court, telephone 01823 662481 or email managers@nyneheadcourt.co.uk.

Tony’s Fish & Chips, Somerton

Another busy year for Tony’s Fish and Chip shop, with the family run business managing to cope against ever increasing overheads and price rises.

The priority as a business is always to put the customer’s

Mentioned in

Dispatches experience first, and that means always providing the absolute best quality food possible. There’s no cut corners to save costs, and Tony’s endeavour to always provide the best quality fish and chips, with great taste at the top of the priority list!

Tony’s thank all of their customers from 2023 for their continued support, and if you tried them for the first time this year, then they look forward to seeing you again in the new year!

A big thank you to all staff who continue to work hard in challenging times, it wouldn’t be possible without you.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Tony’s Fish and Chips in Somerton.

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For more information about the Vispring pillow top mattress topper visit www.thebed specialist.co.uk/shop/toppers/ vispring-pillowtop-mattresstopper.htm

Learn more about the benefits of sleep with The Bed Specialist

To celebrate the launch of their new website and winter bed sale The Bed Specialist in Yeovil have a brilliant new bed from Vispring in store!

Vispring are the leading manufacturer of hand made luxury beds in the UK and the team at Vispring have made an exclusive model especially for The Bed Specialist named Lana.

Upholstered with horsetail and Exmoor horn wool – it’s really sumptuous and during the sale they are offering a free Vispring pillow top mattress topper with this bed set or mattress purchase

Vispring Lana, made especially for The Bed Specialist in Yeovil.

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 13

Seasons Greetings Compliments of the season to all advertisers, outlets, delivery people, readers & contributors and best wishes for a healthy & prosperous New Year!

SPECIALISTS IN. ★ Tyres ★ Batteries ★ Wheels ★ Exhausts ★ Laser Wheel Alignments ★ Computerised Wheel Balance PETROL & DIESEL AVAILABLE Wishing all our customers compliments of the season and looking foward to seeing you in 2024

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MOTORING VINTAGE Motorcycling with Rod Hann THE JANUARY edition is usually with you just before Christmas so may I wish all readers and the staff at The Visitor a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year. I find January a time for reflection and also excitement at the prospect of what is to come this next year.

Reflection starts with the memories created last year by the many places I have visited and the people I have met. The events I really enjoyed have been noted with the promise of doing them again in 2024. I find planning for the coming year renews my enthusiasm for my involvement in old bikes.

Most clubs have by now published their calendar of events so I go through the diary setting out all the events I wish to attend.

I always put the favourites in first, then whatever new events I fancy doing, and then fill in the gaps with all the local rides I can possibly fit in.

Next year I am determined to make a few changes in my stable of machines with some being sold and perhaps a new addition. It all adds to the fun to be gained from my hobby.

In the meantime of course riding events continue to happen.

My proof is in this months picture which was taken recently.

Members assemble for a ride at Charminster, near Dorchester.

Machines illustrated include Honda and Yamaha from Japan, BMW from Germany, Moto Guzzi from Italy, and Velocette from England. Undeterred by the weather, which was cold but dry,

Members assemble for a ride at Charminster, near Dorchester with machines from Honda, Yamaha, BMW, Moto Guzzi and Velocette.

the riders enjoyed the route of around 70 miles which was taken at a sensible pace and with adequate coffee stops. Much fun can still be had during winter time provided your riding kit is up to the job.

Local Sections of the VMCC and other clubs usually have a meet on New Year’s Day. Dependent upon the weather this might be a short ride out or just a meet at a well known watering hole. Either way it is a social occasion and a good start to another years enjoyment. The Somerset Section will have their club night at Cossington on the 5th and this will be a film show.

Next on the 14th will be the Frostbite Run which starts at the Langport Arms. The Dorset Section will have their club night at Pulham on the 10th and this is followed on the 14th with the Winter Run from Stalbridge. Our Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section just have their club

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afternoon at Silton on the 8th.

As usual more details can be had by ringing 01935-872528.

What does the New Year bring to you as involvement in your club? Although the events have been fixed there is always room for new volunteers to step forward and offer to help in whatever capacity you can. That might be to actually organise an event, or help with catering, or marshalling or even performing breakdown duties. There is always something that needs doing. The old adage that the more you put into something then the more you get out of it is very true within any club activity.

An event worth planning for now is the annual Bristol Classic Bike Show held at the Bath and West Showground. February 24th and 25th is the date for your diaries. Always worth a visit to see a thousand plus bikes, and the autojumble, and have a very social weekend. I will be helping to man the VMCC Main Club stand so do please stop by for a chat. It is always good to hear feedback from club members and non-members alike. The more you tell club or Section officials what you want from the club then the better the chance to get the club that caters for your needs.

I am now busy in the workshop.

I need to clean and prepare those machines I am hoping to sell in the spring, I am also cleaning and servicing the machines I will be

using in the coming months.

With any old vehicle there are always some jobs to be done and through the winter months is certainly the best time to do it.

There is always a job that has needed doing for ages but somehow has been overlooked or pushed to one side due to other commitments. One day utopia will be when all the bikes are fully fettled and ready for use.

Have you visited the Haynes International Motor Museum recently? A new addition to the attractions is the 'Life on Two Wheels' exhibition which is a joint venture between the museum and the British Motorcycle Charitable Trust. This new exhibition traces motorcycling from its ancient beginnings to the latest times, and details the impact of motorcycling on our society and looks at the ecological impact.

Well worth a visit so go and see for yourself.

Now at this time of year I always notice that my bikes seem rather sluggish, and the riding gear seems to fit more snuggly than it did last year. I rather think the eating excesses over Christmas have once again taken its toll and have something to do with it. Perhaps in 2024 I had better concentrate on getting the jockey a bit fitter and leaner and worry less about the horses I am riding.

Above all ride safe in 2024 and enjoy whatever you are doing.

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 15

Family Health with

Jenna Evans IT'S THAT time in the season again, when we're reflecting on what has been, and looking forward (or not!) to what is to come. Looking around my room I see some quotes on my blackboard (don't believe everything you think), 'whether you think you can, or think you can't, you're right' and 'your biography becomes your biology'.

At this time of year, when people are making New Year's resolutions, it's the perfect time to look at how we think and how we can best load the dice in our favour of successful changes in 2024. Unless you're a very unusual being, I'd bet most of your brain chatter is at best pointless and at worst downright unhelpful. Most of us are our own worst enemies, with a constant stream of negative self talk. It may be our bodies, our jobs, our partners or friends.

The crazy traffic, the annoying neighbour, the weather. Our brains can be a constant narrative of all that is wrong in life. As we tend to create our lives and our health from all these unconscious patterns and programmes, humming away in perpetuity and without challenge, I think we owe it to ourselves to

start taking a thorough look at our own thoughts. One of my earliest interests was psychology, after I had powerful first hand experiences of creating very real, physical effects from my thoughts and emotions. I don't think I've ever spoken to a 'sick' person who claims to be totally happy, breezy of thought and living their best, stress free life.

Usually, people know exactly what was going on when they were struck down with an illness and life tension is almost always a major factor. So how exactly do we gain the mastery of our minds? Tis not an easy task that's for sure, and certainly not a thing I claim to have achieved (but every year I'm a little better!) It'll take commitment to being your own best friend and scrupulous attention to your thoughts. Some people find simply and firmly stating the word 'delete' can be helpful when a rogue self critical thought drifts through the mind.

Others may like to delve deeply into their beliefs – 'Is that true?' and 'Where did I first hear that about myself?' are good starting points. You can make a mantra, affirmation or even a little song you repeat on a loop in your head to reprogramme yourself. We learn by repetition. Delete, delete, delete and repeat, repeat, repeat!

It's good to be aware of your triggers too as let's face it some people have the unfortunate habit

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16 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

of saying exactly the wrong thing at the wrong time!

It's a sad aspect of human nature to vulture other peoples energy when struggling ourselves. Remember that the bullies and negative nellies of the world are just in pain themselves – that doesn't excuse their behaviour but don't give it any power over your happiness. In fact, if you can get to a place where no 'thing' outside of you is responsible for your well-being, that's mastery! Resilience will come, you are enough, be gentle with yourself and never let anyone dull your sparkle. I recommend some great resources to take a deeper dive into this field such as Bruce Lipton's Biology of Belief, Candace Pert's Molecules of Emotion and the area of German New Medicine.

Marissa Peer has some great videos online too. If you think you haven't got the time to read a little everyday or watch a short video – think of how you'd make the time if your best friend or child asked you. We cannot separate body and mind, so let's hone the latter to help heal the former.

I wish you a year filled with beautiful thoughts, laughter and joy. © Jenna Evans 2023.

•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.

B’Active and Pound!

Get fitter, stronger, healthier, lose weight, your workout in your own way. Pound is a cardio jam fitness session inspired by the infectious, energising and sweatdripping fun. Instead of listening to music you become the music in this exhilarating full body workout that combines cardio, conditioning and strength training with yoga and Pilatesinspired moves using ripstixs and an exercise mat. Also B’Active with Hayley which is a little body conditioning using small weights and resistance bands etc., along the way to achieve full benefits.

Get yourself booked into a local fun and friendly fitness class by calling Hayley on 07786 553889.

B’Active - fun & friendly fitness classes with Hayley.

Minnie Me's, Castle Cary

At Minnie Me's they aim to give everyone an experience that is tailored to their wants and needs.

They have an area that is specifically designed for anybody who suffers with sensory overload or just wants a silent appointment, a salon who is very much autism aware and will go above and beyond to make everyone comfortable while within their premises. ‘Autism, neurological disorders and mental health are a passion of mine as myself and my family have been affected by these things and in our experience they are not catered for nearly enough, and are not shouted about enough.’

Minnie Me’s is also wheelchair user friendly and have a portable ramp for easier access.

They offer hair and nail services that are affordable for everybody as well as being very welcoming and friendly. A safe space where anybody and everybody is welcome, whether it's for an appointment or just somewhere to warm up, have a drink and chat. Coming soon in the new year, one day a week will be dedicated to offering a service to people who cannot get to the

Mill on the Brue have been offering residential activity holidays in Bruton for over 35 years.

Summer camps at Mill on the Brue, Somerset’s favourite Outdoor Centre

Minnie Me’s have an area that is specifically designed for anybody who suffers with sensory overload or just wants a silent appointment.

salon, by going to them either for hair appointments or nail appointments, whether that's in their homes or into care homes, they will be flexible and work with the clients and their needs.

For more info visit: minniemes.co.uk.

Sports of Bond Street

Sports of Bond Street is an independent sports specialist shop which has been trading since 1970. It’s the only specialist sports shop in Yeovil town centre, opposite Boots, just off Middle Street.

You’ll find a complete range of clothing, footwear and equipment,

and they are happy to help you with personal preferences. A racket re-stringing service is available. They are kit stockists of Yeovil Town Road Running Club and Yeovil & Sherborne Hockey Club. Call in and see their extensive range of sports equipment at competitive prices with an elite service. Open Tue Sat 9.30am - 4.30pm.

The holidays might seem far off but it won’t be long before parents, particularly both working, that they start thinking about the long summer ones. This is where Mill on the Brue can definitely help. They are a family run Centre, based just outside Bruton, South Somerset, and have been offering residential activity holidays for over 35 years to children from 8-15 years, or Adventure day camps for 7-12 years - they really think they know what children like!

The days are packed with fun, exciting and challenging activities; have a look at www.millonthebrue.co.uk to see the wide range, all set in

beautiful 25 acres of river, woodland and fields. It’s a place of freedom, discovery and learning more about the environment, guided by fun, friendly and experienced instructors.

And the meals! Delicious, homecooked, using many of their own organically grown vegetables and fruit. Plenty of seconds too!

Children staying for a week or more arrive on a Sunday afternoon and depart after a special prize giving on Saturday afternoon. Camps start Sunday 16th July until Friday 25th August.

Day camps are Mondays to Fridays, from 8.30am until 4.00pm. Starting from the 17th July till the 18th August 2024 TBC.

Sports of Bond Street.

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 17

Easy and efficient

STIGA - battery powered tools, the perfect gift

It’s winter ... the perfect time for a nice cosy fire ... and with Christmas nearly here, the new range of battery powered tools from STIGA make ideal gifts for the gardener!

The brand new CS 100e cordless chainsaw is the perfect ally when there are chopping and cutting jobs to do in the garden.

Cutting logs for the fire or tidying up branches on trees is a cinch with this easy-to-start, easy-touse and easy-to-store tool.

STIGA battery powered & lightweight

The CS 100e, which is the first STIGA 20V chainsaw, is lightweight, in fact only 3.7Kg, therefore ensuring no muscular fatigue. It is driven by a powerful 700W motor and has a 4 Ah ePower battery.

It can reach up to 14.5 m/s of chain speed and has a 160 mm cutting width, meaning that it can perform a minimum of 80 cuts on 100 mm diameter logs (on one charge).

Safety at its highest

Safety is at the highest level thanks to the trigger, the inertial brake and, placed at the end of the cutting bar, the tip guard which reduces the risk of kickback.

Most comfortable

Designed with two ergonomic handles, side and rear, you can care for your garden in a more comfortable and easy way. The chain can be easily tensioned, thanks to the STIGA quick tensioning system.

There is less noise and vibrations too thanks to the STIGA ePower 20V battery!

STIGA - Presenting its first ever battery-powered pruner!

Lightweight, ergonomic, and easy to use, the STIGA SC 100e is the perfect tool for pruning hedges, flowerbeds, and bushes.

STIGA, a world-leading manufacturer and distributor of gardening machinery and equipment, announces its firstever battery-powered pruner, the SC 100e.

The ergonomic design of the new STIGA SC 100e makes this battery pruner both functional and comfortable to use allowing you to work efficiently and quickly. Solid, well balanced and equipped with a non-slip handle, this latest generation pruner offers high safety security thanks to a button with an easy lock-off system and standby/lock-off software.

Innovation at its best

The SC 100e's exceptional performance pruning capability adapts to the operator's needs and to the task at hand. With an option to select from three blade opening settings, this allows the cutting and trimming of branches up to 3.0 cm in diameter. Its highquality carbon steel blades are extremely sharp, and capable of making a clean and precise cut.

Listen to the silence!

Powerful, yet quiet thanks to STIGA ePower; the SC 100e pruner also features a 500W brushless motor that offers enhanced performance, greater efficiency, and durability than a traditional brushed motor.

The the SC 100e Pruner and the CS 100e Chainsaw are available to purchase now from www.stiga.com/uk.

The Acorn House Bakery Recipe Book Out Now

Local baker Helen Hermanstein Smith’s new book The Acorn House Bakery Recipe Book was published on 21st October 2023.

Helen lives in Wincanton and sells her baked goods along with her own recipe artisanal jams, marmalades and chutneys at

For every pruning need

The new STIGA battery-powered pruner is the ideal companion for a variety of pruning needs, for example, hedges, flowerbeds, and bushes, thanks to the STIGA ePower 20V 2 Ah battery. This battery ensures intelligent energy management and autonomy of up to over 2,000 cuts on a single charge.

Shareable batteries

Designed to meet various needs and simplifying different 18 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

gardening activities, the STIGA ePower 20V batteries can also be shared among a series of lightweight and easy-to-use tools.

With the 20V system, the "intelligent" battery recognizes the product in which it is used and sets the appropriate working parameters autonomously. It adapts by optimising the operating range for each product, thus maximising battery life.

local country fairs and markets, including Coles Yard, Wincanton.

She loves to use fruit grown from her own kitchen garden as well as locally grown produce.

Savoury Snacks; Flans & Tarts; Cookies & Sweet Treats; and Cakes, Sponges & Scones.

The Acorn House Bakery Recipe Book is available online directly from http://acorn-housebakery.square.site, as well as ColesYard, Wincanton; Papertrees, Wincanton; Bailey Hill Bookshop, Castle Cary and the Stripy Duck Café & Bookshop, Bruton. Price £14.99.

Innopet Dog Strollers and George Barclay beds.

Dogs are always welcome at their workshop showroom and while you're there owners can browse the wide selection of helpful and stylish dog accessories, enrichment toys and treats.

Find them at Shearstock Estate, SP7 9PT, between Gillingham and Shaftesbury.

Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 10.30am - 3.30pm.

Contact Sara on 07989 300526, Jocelyn on 07540 636245 or visit www.dorsetdogtogs.co.uk.

Dorset Dog Togs This book is a reflection of Helen’s skills as a baker, acquired during her training at Westminster Kingsway College and Le Cordon Bleu School in London, which have enabled her to build The Acorn House Bakery into what it is today. She is excited to have collated and produced this wonderful collection of recipes - her first recipe book for your enjoyment and has presented them in four distinct sections for simplicity: Light

Dorset Dog Togs hand make dog coats for all shapes and sizes of dog. They have lots of coats ready to try, if they don't have one that’s just right, they will make to measure.

Ward & Sibley Jewellers of Yeovil have a wonderful choice of jewellery in stock to delight this Christmas and in 2024.

Their coats come in a variety of styles including their unique design which fits easily over walking harnesses. They also offer Perfect Fit harnesses fittings and stock a wide selection of

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

M O N E Y G R A M S • MOBILE TOP-UPS

STATIONERY • SAVINGS ACCOUNTS

STAMPS • GAS • ELECTRICITY • WATER • BANKING TRANSACTIONS

GREETINGS CARDS • HOLIDAY INSURANCE • FOREIGN CURRENCY • MUCH MORE

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 19

January Notice Board MARTOCK

Organ Recital by Jonathan Delbridge. Saturday 20th Jan 2024 at All Saints Church, MARTOCK; TA12 6JN. Time: 7:30 pm. Admission: £10.00 at Guardianstickets@gmail.com /07547 213992/Martock Gallery/ Martock Newsagent (CASH ONLY); £12.00 at door. www.martockonline.co.uk/events, www.jonathandelbridge.com.

SHERBORNE

Sunday 14 January 3-4pmPoetry and music to celebrate the natural world- a Quaker response Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, DT9 3BJ. FREE admission, refreshments afterwards donations to Sherborne Foodbank sherbornequakers@gmail.com.

TO ADVERTISE your February event here, email info@thevisitor magazine.co.uk, write to: PO BOX 5522 Castle Cary, BA9 0BP or telephone 01963 351256. It costs only £5 for 20 words, 30p per additional word. Payment via credit/debit card or cheque.

February issue deadline is 22nd January!

MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY, HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO ALL

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 December Sudoku on page 31

20 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

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

By John Osborne  Answers can be found on page 31  1) 'Seven Seas of Rhye' was the first chart hit for which band in 1974?

2) The biggest seller of 1985 was 'The Power of Love'. Who sang it?

3) 'The Scientist' was a hit for Coldplay in which year?

4) Elizabeth Woolridge Grant is best known by which name?

5) 'The Show Must Go On', sang who, in 1972?

6) Who wrote the song, and sang about a lady called 'Diana' in 1957?

7) Lyrics: 'Well don't go around tonight, cause it's bound to take your life' 8) The Beatles album and film 'Help!' was released in which year?

9) Edie Brickell and the ...?

Rare Jumeau doll expected to generate a great deal of interest at Lawrences of Crewkerne

Dating to the late 19th Century, this porcelain head doll was made by the famous Jumeau factory.

The doll has glass paperweight eyes, closed mouth and applied ears, and comes with some clothing and a brass miniature bed. It stands 46cms high and has remained largely untouched.

Jumeau are well known for their high quality heads, and are widely collected all around the world.

INSTANT CASH FOR YOUR OLD TOYS!

PASTIMES Of Sherborne (near the Abbey)

10) 'Piano Man', 'The Stranger', 'Glass Houses'. Albums by whom?

• Over thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys

BonusQuestion: Who was the lead singer of the band that are best known for performing the song that's the answer to Q:7?

• Established business paying BEST prices for old toys in any condition

Great quotes in Music (153) 'You don't expect me to still be doing this when I'm THIRTY, do you?'

- Mick Jagger

Are you looking for someone special this Festive Season?

Speak to Alison at Just Somerset Introductions

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year!

It’s nearly January, where did the year go! As our thoughts move towards Christmas and the New Year, if you don’t want to be on your own and would like to meet someone special, perhaps even have some romance and a relationship again, then consider Just Somerset Introductions.

We offer one to one

This rare Jumeau doll is included in Lawrences of Crewkerne’s January Fine Art Sale with an estimate of £1000-£1500.

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

introductions and also arrange social trips where members can meet in a relaxed way, be it a pub lunch or a skittles evening, National Trust visits, gardens, theatre trips, dinner dances, walks and more. We cover all ages, and welcome all single men and women. There might be someone there for you!

We also cover Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Devon and Surrey. You can meet members from across the group.

Please see the website for testimonials and details of how we work and give us a call!

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 21

Recently listed homes seeing price reductions at a rate of 137 per day

THE LATEST research by Yopa, the award-winning national estate agency, has revealed that

homes listed for sale within the last 30 days have been reducing in price at a rate of 137 properties per day, as sellers slash their asking price expectations in order to entice buyers in cooler market

conditions. Yopa analysed the number of homes listed for sale over the last 30 days across the property market in England (Zoopla) and how many of these newly listed homes have already resorted to an asking price reduction in order to secure a buyer.

The research shows that 72,452 homes have been listed for sale across England over the last 30 days, with 6% of these properties already seeing a price reduction. While this may not seem like a significant amount, it equates to over 4,000 homes, meaning that sellers have been reducing their asking price at a rate of 137 properties a day.

There’s all types of furniture to be found at Fit & Furnish in Yeovil including this incredible Ottoman Bed.

22 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

These asking price reductions have been most prevalent across the more inflated regions of the market, with both the South East (936) and London (821) seeing 7% of homes listed in the last 30 days reducing in price.

This means that across both regions, homes have been reducing in value at a respective rate of 31 properties and 27 properties a day.

The East of England also ranks within the top three in this respect, where 6% of all properties entering the market in the last 30 days have reduced in price, equating to 19 price reduced properties per day.

Of the 4,109 homes to have seen a price reduction across England within 30 days of entering the market for sale, just 191 are already sold subject to contract or under offer - meaning buyer demand sits at just 4.6% for homes that are dropping in price right off the bat.

Demand for recently listed and reduced homes is at its highest in the West Midlands, but even then just 6.3% of these properties have gone under offer or sold subject to contract.

CEO of Yopa, Verona Frankish, commented: “It’s a challenging landscape for sellers at present.

Higher mortgage rates have caused buyer numbers to dwindle and this has very much transferred the balance of power from seller to buyer.

The good news is that property values have remained largely unchanged despite wider economic turbulence and so those who are able to secure a buyer are still securing a great price for their property.

The real issue is the time it’s taking to find a buyer in the first place and this is the driving factor causing many sellers to drop their asking price expectations in an attempt to secure a quicker sale.

However, as our research shows, this isn’t necessarily the key to success and less than five percent of sellers who reduce their price within the first 30 days of entering the market are actually finding a buyer.

Patience is certainly a virtue in the current market and we would advise those looking to sell to hold their nerve and stick it out. Previous research from Rightmove found that properties that are accurately priced according to market conditions find a buyer in less than half the time it takes those who enter at a higher price point and then look to reduce later down the line.”

Data sourced from Zoopla.

Collected 28/11/2023.

J2 Tiles & Bathrooms, Yeovil

J2 Tiles & Bathrooms is a familyrun business based in Yeovil, Somerset. With over 25 years of industry experience, they have a

wealth of knowledge in all aspects of tiling in both commercial and domestic settings.

They’ll take care of everything, from plumbing and electrical work to tiling and finishing. They also offer full bathroom and wetroom installations - so whether you’re planning a complete bathroom renovation or just a simple kitchen tiling job, they guarantee professional service.

Did you know - If you have limited mobility you may be entitled to VAT Disability Relief on an adapted design bathroom to suit your needs - give them a call if you need any advice and they’ll be happy to answer any questions.

Inside J2 Tiles & Bathrooms.

They are committed to providing the highest quality workmanship and first class customer service. If you are looking for a high-standard and recommended family-run tiling company, contact J2 Tiles & Bathrooms today.

20% OFF this winter 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 winter Lizzie Price is offering their lowest prices of the year! And with lead times of just 4 weeks, you can unlock your gardens true potential and start living the alfresco lifestyle right away.

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.

Lizzie Price has also extended their offer of 20% off all the outdoor shading range. To take advantage of this offer all orders must be placed before 31st January 2024.

Lizzie Price.

VISIT OUR TILE AND BATHROOM SHOWROOM  Quality Floor & Wall Tiles from Leading Brands  Professional Fitting/ Installation Service  Design Advice  Supply & Fit or Supply Only  Full range of Sanitaryware, Basins, Baths  Large Format Wall and Floor Tiles Open: 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm Saturday FREE PARKING OUTSIDE SHOWROOM

J2 Tiles, Unit 16, Venture 20 (Opposite Wickes)

Lynx West Trading Estate YEOVIL, BA20 2HP  01935 472088 · www.j2tiling.co.uk THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 23

The famous TV faces priced out of their property markets

The latest research from eXp UK, the platform for personal estate agents, has revealed which famous TV faces would struggle to make it in today's property market when taking into account both the pay they take home and the cost of homeownership in their respective areas. eXp UK looked at 12 much loved TV characters, what their onscreen professions would earn today and just how much it costs to purchase a property in their hometowns, before working out the income to house price ratio for each character.

With the current average UK house price sitting at £291,385 and the average gross salary coming in at £25,404, the average income to house price ratio currently stands at 8.2*.

But spare a thought for Ian Beale, long-serving Eastender, who is facing a far less affordable outlook when it comes to the property market. While he may have held many jobs over the

years, his fish and chip shop and vegetable stall have seen him through thick and thin.

While the average caterer makes £27,886 across the UK, the average cost of a property in the East End of London is a lofty £512,825. As a result, Ian Beale would have a very tough time climbing the property ladder in today’s market with the income to house price ratio coming in at a huge 18.4 - 10.2 higher than the national benchmark.

Geraldine Granger, otherwise known as the Vicar of Dibley, wouldn’t fare much better. The average earnings for a member of clergy is currently £26,300. The fictional village of Dibley is set in Oxfordshire, where house prices average £445,210, meaning Geraldine would require 16.9 times her income to cover the cost of a home.

While the average detective may earn as much as £62,343 per year, the average price of a home in Westminster is currently £967,277, meaning Sherlock Holmes would require 15.5 times

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his annual earnings to purchase within the borough today.

Smithy from Gavin and Stacey would earn £28,109 as a builder and decorator today, but should he want to purchase in his hometown of Billericay, he’d need 13.2 times his annual income to cover the cost of the average property there.

Edina Moon from Ab Fab would also need 13 times her annual income as a PR executive to purchase in Holland Park, Alfie Wickers from Bad Education would have to earn 10.9 times his annual earnings as a secondary school teacher to cover the cost of a property in his hometown, while the average price of a property in Postman Pat's hometown sits at 10.9 times the average earnings of a postman.

Who would make it onto the property ladder?

Of the famous faces analysed by eXp UK there are a few who would have less of a struggle than the rest when it comes to the task of achieving homeownership.

With a general office manager pulling in £42,156 a year and the average house price in Slough sitting at £312,777, David Brent is facing one of the more affordable house price to income ratios at 7.4.

Alan Partridge would need 5.8 times the average income to purchase his own home in Norwich. Image BBC.

Alan Partridge would require 5.8 times the average income of a broadcaster to purchase in Norwich, while the average house price in Cornwall is just 4.7 times Doc Martin’s annual income as a GP. Head of eXp UK, Adam Day, commented:“These famous TV faces are, of course, fictional.

However, it’s interesting to see just how many would struggle in today’s housing market based on the locations they live in, the income they generate and the average cost of a home.

Had Ian Beale known just how much house prices in the east end would climb in recent years, he probably would have sacked off the chip shop and invested in bricks and mortar a long time ago.

It also goes to show that even someone as incompetent as David Brent can climb the ladder with greater ease by opting for a more affordable location as Slough, while those working as detectives, teachers, clergy and PRs will struggle in London and the surrounding areas due to the far higher cost of property.” *Current house price data for each area sourced from the GovUK House Price Index. Current average gross earnings sourced from the Office for National Statistics - Employee earnings in the UK: 2023.

Plumbing and heating industry shows growth through difficult times

New research from Fair Fix, the boiler engineer experts, reveals that the number of plumbing and heating businesses operating in the UK has increased by 3% in the past year which is good news for any homeowners and a result of increasing self-employment opportunities rising within the industry.

Instead it’s the South East that has the most businesses, with 8,095 accounting for 18.1% of the national total. This is followed by the East of England, home to 13.2% (5,870) of the UK’s firms, and London ranks third with 11% (4,890).

Founder of Fair Fix, Tye Ekrem, commented:“It comes as no surprise to see that, despite difficult economic conditions, the number of plumbing and heating firms in the UK is on the rise.

That’s because we are seeing first hand the rise of self-employed, sole traders operating around the country.

The best engineers are increasingly seeing the benefit of

going it alone once they have gathered the necessary experience and expertise. And with the likes of Fair Fix there to support their ambitions and send customers their way, they aren’t looking back.”

Homemaker - offering a free innovative design & planning service

The kitchen is the heart of your home, so creating an attractive and functional kitchen is paramount. Homemaker are kitchen specialists and can offer traditional English to modern German manufacturers. There are plenty of fabulous styles to choose from whether you are

looking for handleless, modern, gloss or shaker style kitchens Homemaker cater to all tastes.

Their ranges come in an array of colours and finishes, with clever storage features to make the most of your kitchen no matter the shape/size. They can help you create the perfect kitchen for your home, and at amazing prices!

Homemaker can also supply a wide range of appliances from leading manufacturers including Bosch, Neff, Siemens, Smeg, Fisher & Paykel and Hotpoint.

They offer a fast and efficient delivery service usually within 24 hours from stock.

Find out more at www. myhomemaker.co.uk.

Rising costs: It could be a good time to upgrade your heating system? Image: Bestheating.com.

Fair Fix has analysed the number of plumbing, heating, and air conditioning enterprises in the UK and how this number has changed over the past year, discovering that the industry is growing in size despite what has otherwise been a difficult year for the wider UK economy, small businesses, and households.

In 2022, there were 2.8 million operational businesses in the UK. In 2023, this number fell by -1.5% to sit closer to 2.7 million businesses. But the plumbing and heating industry has managed to buck this trend by increasing its number of businesses by 2.9% in 2023 so that total enterprises number 44,630.

The West Midlands has seen the largest regional growth with the number of businesses now totalling 3,420 after increasing by 4.7% on the year. Wales has recorded an increase of 4.1%, followed by Yorkshire & Humber (3.9%), the East of England (3.5%), and Scotland (3.4%).

The rate of growth has been slowest in London where the number of businesses increased by just 1% on the year. It’s reasonable to expect that, despite such a small annual increase, London would still be home to the largest proportion of the UK’s plumbing and heating firms, but that is not the case.

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 25

Luca's Garden

with Bridget Sudworth CLEANING the greenhouse was on the list of garden tasks this week but has been totally foiled by our ever fascinating, varied and unpredictable weather!

Instead, a minor shifty had to take place inside the greenhouse (which meant actually putting things properly away instead of just dumping them down somewhere) to find space for plant storage with arctic weather on the way. Slightly delicate plants were collected, wrapped and stored inside while others were bundled together in a corner of the verandah, out of reach of the east wind. The cold ensued!

About time too as the low temps will see off the wasps nests at last as well as enable cutting down the summer-flowering clematis foliage which makes the tidying up tasks easier. Colder weather has been a long time in coming as well as the autumn leaf fall which will no doubt be completed as frost freezes off any hangerson The festive season looms, in case anyone hasn’t noticed - we have, after all, only had 365 days to think about it! Astonishing to read over last year's copy - how time has flown! Not unnaturally, the same advice applies about getting seeds ordered, sorting and sharpening garden tools and thinking up excuses to avoid the family crush over Christmas with sudden and urgent gardening jobs that necessitate escape to the garden shed/garage/greenhouse

Seasonal drama.

preferably accompanied by a large glass of something and maybe even an old fashioned radio? And there’s nothing wrong with preparing the way by slipping an old armchair into a quiet corner somewhere sheltered outside, the excuse being a bit of gluing or mending perhaps but which would provide a neat escape venue!

It’s all change with the weather again as I continue this three days later. We are now into flood mode - is it any wonder that us Brits always discuss the weather?

I thought a really good idea would

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be to put a rubber dinghy on my pressie list hoping that Lukie will learn to balance nicely without tipping the whole thing over.

Plus, if the going gets really tough, there is always the chance of jumping in and paddling over to Calais to enjoy some French hospitality - we won’t be the first to do that except, of course, we’d be doing it in reverse. (Must remember to put Lukie’s Romanian passport on the list of must-haves as well as a doggie life jacket along with his macintosh).

Don’t forget to check your gutters although if there is a blockage, it will be all too obvious.

We have had to shin up ladders to clear massive leaf congestion - rather a damp pastime in the rain and certainly slightly more than damp for the muggins holding the ladder!

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ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TREE PLANTING

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660 26 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

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

After all the rain we’ve had, it’s very obvious on our walks to note how much moss has crept up the trunks of trees and all over the outside stonework. At least something is benefitting from this wet spell. In the woods yesterday, thankfully dry, the trunks of the old beech trees were black with wet and provided a stark profile against the thin light - the trees all look magnificent now without their foliage and so much is revealed as the grass flattens down. Previously the frost effect was stunning to note but all too fleeting.

This really isn’t the time to do much outside but sensible planning can take place for the coming months and January is a good month to crack on with pruning. With lots of veggies to prepare over Christmas, you will soon collect buckets full of compost - all grist to the mill. It really does make a difference to the soil to have all that added free nourishment and everything will benefit from a good feed. Soil health is vital and your vegetables will prove the point when it comes to harvesting. Buy another compost bin if you run out of space - we have three on the go in our small garden and that’s still not enough. Some seed

Frozen garden.

planting can go ahead in January if you have room to keep them safe from low temps or if your greenhouse is heated. Sweet peas and broad beans are two that will benefit. Seed potatoes and onions will be available in garden centres too so keep an eye open not to miss out on your first choices. Also, if you make marmalade, this is the time to purchase Sevilles which will freeze happily if you haven’t time or the jam jars to make them all up.

There is always a bit of a debate about whether or not to have a real Christmas tree or an artificial one. Live trees in pots are OK but I am sure they do not welcome being in centrally heated houses for a month whereas real ones with no roots strike me as being similar to Sycamore Gap. It seems quite brutal to cut down a living tree, all too soon to be seen lying sadly outside gates or chucked into a heap whereas at least they could be mulched and recycled which is rarely the case given that most households don't have a shredder. Apparently, it takes 4 years to replace the energy in making an artificial tree but ours is over 30 years old now and still going strong which does rather prove the point.

So during this festive season, I have some free advice for our esteemed government. They should all take Gardening Leave (and stick with it for a long time) which would involve tending their patches as well as taking a good look at the land and people they are supposed to be looking after

and perhaps drawing some realistic conclusions. For us lot in the countryside, take advantage of all the jollification going on in your village or town especially if you can walk to whatever is happening and share the pleasure of the company of your friends and neighbours.

And don’t forget to feed your birds!

Have a happy time and good wishes to one and all!

Winter skeleton.

Seasonal glitz.

Goldenrod transformed.

Seasonal mystery.

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 27

The Perfect Christmas Gift with Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design

Buying the perfect gift for someone that has everything can sometimes be tricky, but if they have access to an outside space, then how about buying them a scented shrub to remind them of you and your friendship every year at Christmas time?

How about a winter flowering honeysuckle? There are two varieties to choose from, flowering from December to March, deciduous or semi-evergreen.

They both flower on bare stems, showcasing their delicate scented flowers to give the maximum impact.

Lonicera fragrantissima has creamy-white flowers in mild spells on bare stems, sometimes followed by red berries, and in spring, has green leaves flushed with purple. This variety grows to 2m high and 3m spread.

The second is Lonicera purpusii ‘Winter Beauty’ is similar but has clusters of white flowers and is a

little more compact in its growth, 2m high and 2.5m spread.

Lonicera purpusii.

My second choice of shrub is Wintersweet or to give it its proper name, Chimonanthus praecox, has gorgeous and aptly named perfumed blooms.

Flowering from December to February, it may take a year or two to get established before it flowers, so this one is for the more patient gardener, but well worth the wait.

Plant in a spot that enjoys winter sunshine to warm those yellow waxy flowers to enjoy the lemon, with a hint of spice scent that will not go un-noticed.

This shrub will need space to grow, although relatively slow growing it will reach 4m high by 2.5m spread, perfect to train against a sunny south-facing wall or fence.

Until next time Happy Christmas, Julie.

Chimonanthus praecox.

WITH ADVERTS FROM AS LITTLE As £15 a month shouldnʼt you be advertising here in 2024?

28 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

Winter Warmers

IN THE run up to Christmas we have been experiencing some pretty grotty weather across the county, with road closures and, once again, extensive flooding.

Not quite the conditions I want to be out and about in, especially commuting across foggy, misty Dartmoor. Time to curl up with a good book beside a roaring log fire I think.

I have always been a fan of mulled wine but I do find that those sold commercially are too sweet and sickly, lacking the oomph I am looking for.

Mulled wine is an inexpensive way to entertain a crowd, and a big pot of it fills the kitchen with an intoxicating aroma. The knack is to balance the fruitiness of the wine with mulling spices, citrus, and oak and vanilla notes on the finish.

The first recorded spiced wine recipe was in Rome in the 2nd Century AD. Of course, today it’s very popular in the UK and across Europe. There are lots of variations on the spices depending on your country and tradition; it’s called Glühwein in German-speaking countries and Glögg in Nordic countries.

Typically, mulled wine is heated with whole spices instead of ground, so the flavour infuses into the wine instead of making it cloudy. I use a mix of allspice, cloves, star anise, cinnamon sticks and root ginger with a dry red wine, adding an equal quantity of water, maple syrup or honey, and a slug each of brandy and orange juice, added at the end.

Mulled wine can be heated using various methods: I usually heat mine in a pan on top of the stove, but a slow cooker is a good option, and I have been known to use the microwave. A bottle of wine will give you six generous servings.

Toasting the spices first for a few minutes helps to release more of their flavour and, if heating the wine on top of the stove, it will take about 30 minutes. Make sure it stays on the lowest setting as it should not even come to a simmer.

If this is not to your taste, there are plenty of other options available for a dram or two to warm the cockles of your heart.

As January 17 is apparently national Hot Buttered Rum Day what better way is there to start

the new year? The oldest rum distillery still in operation is Mount Gay in Barbados, which opened in 1703 and Hot Buttered Rum has a long history. As colonists started adding rum to drinks and punches, hot toddies, milk punches and eggnog became popular, with each family having their own “house” version.

Spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice, this blend of dark rum and hot water with butter and sugar, has been around since the mid-17th century. The concept behind hot buttered rum is to make a “hot buttered rum batter” featuring butter, brown sugar, and spices. Each drink has a dollop of the batter added to

rum and hot water; use just enough butter and sugar to make it lightly sweet and creamy.

Make sure to use dark rum as it is aged longer than white rum, giving it its colour, and a rich, developed flavour with caramel, brown sugar, and vanilla notes.

Modern hot buttered rum recipes have more sugar than the colonial recipe when sugar was a luxury. Some also use apple cider instead of hot water and there are those who like to make it with vanilla ice cream, which adds creaminess.

Another great hot alcoholic drink is the Hot Toddy. The drink originated in British-occupied India: “taddy” was a Hindi word

that meant a drink made from fermented palm sap. By 1786, the word “taddy” was defined in English as a drink with alcohol, hot water, and sugar.

Originally popular in England and Scotland, and using Scotch whisky, it then spread to America, where bourbon, rum and brandy were the available spirits.

This simple mix of alcohol, lemon, honey, and hot water was thought to be a cure for colds in the early 19th century. The simplest and tastiest form of this drink uses hot water, and I also like to add a tot of Stone’s Green Ginger Wine to mine; it certainly puts a warmth in your chest. A

great drink for sipping around the fire in the evening.

Many hot toddy recipes use tea as the base, and garnishing with whole spices is optional, but they add a nice aromatic touch.

Now for something to round off your meal, Spanish Coffee. The concept of spiked coffee spans cultures and liqueurs, from traditional Irish coffee to amaretto coffee. Spanish coffee is actually an American spin on the Spanish concept of carajillo: spiked coffee. Invented at Huber’s Bar in Portland, Oregon in the 1970’s by co-owner James Louie, the drink is made tableside by setting high proof rum on fire to caramelise the glass’s sugar rim.

Then the glass is filled with coffee, Kahlua, and Triple Sec, and topped with sweetened lightly whipped cream and a little grated nutmeg.

The Spanish version of spiked

coffee is also popular in Latin American countries like Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico. Each country uses its own liqueur; in Spain it’s brandy; in Mexico it’s Licor 43, a bright yellow vanilla liqueur made with 43 herbs and spices.

It usually has a caramelised sugar rim and is spiked with Kahlua, rum, and orange liqueur, all topped off with fluffy whipped cream. The burnt caramel, citrus, bitter coffee, and sweet cream all combine into a symphony of flavour.

Use a good strong coffee, and a high proof aged rum; you can replace the Kahlua with Tia Maria, and use Cointreau or Grand Marnier instead of Triple Sec. Adding the cream over the back of a spoon helps it to float on top.

This is certain to ward off the winter blues.

L.P-V.

Image: Shutterstock/Dasha Petrenko.

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER 'TIS THE season to be ... looking out for the 'winter beers' at your local pub! Many breweries release their special ales at this time of the year and as is traditional, they tend to be stronger and darker. Some even go as far as to make them a little spicy, although your scribe cannot get overly excited about that particular quality. Recently I was forced by the household authorities to indulge in an activity called 'shopping' (something I'm neither overfamiliar with or indeed, keen to

partake in). However, whilst on a visit to the Yeovil store of Marks and Spencers I was a little relieved to discover they do actually have a small range of beers. It's been some while since I ventured here, and my memory was jogged to the last time (possibly in the last century) when the range was both extensive and 'highly drinkable', as we went on to discover at that particular Christmas. I did notice the range of Eastern European beers had increased, as had the number of ciders, many of which were produced quite locally.

Anyway, I gravitated toward the three beers pictured, which as you can see included one from Ireland, one from London and one from Belgium, their alcohol

Not just beer, but...

Dutch shuffleboard.

contents being, left to right; 4.5%, 5.5%, and 8.5%. I may well report on them in a future edition of this column.

We'll pause the beers for a moment to go back to a subject that has taken up a few column inches in the last few editions.

It's a game that still does not seem to have struck a chord with our readership or the local hostelries. Yes, 'shuffleboard'!

Luckily James Masters (Masters Games) a font of all knowledge on this game as well as many others, has taken time to send me some information on the subject. Here is a potted history of the game. (Some small edits by your scribe) “Shuffleboard is a deeply interesting game. There are three games with the name and they don't have that much in common.

Ground shuffleboard is the Florida game. Dutch Shuffleboard is entirely different and more like 'trou madame'. The best of them and the only one that can be called a pub game is table shuffleboard. This game is having a huge resurgence at the moment and appearing in pubs everywhere. I was playing it in the 'Hat and Tun' in London last week, and in Canary Wharf the week before. Furthermore, it's almost identical to the game

played 500 years ago by Henry VIII and his mates. Despite that we can thank the Yanks for keeping the game alive...!”

'Trou madame'.

Many thanks James. The question is; why has it not hit the pubs in our area yet? Maybe it has in some, but word has yet to reach me. In fact I have not seen it in a pub since a visit to the late-lamented Rose and Portcullis a few years ago (see this column in the Visitor November 2023 issue) We've a posed advertising photo here of the 'Engelhart Competition Luxury Shuffleboard' which will hopefully stimulate Landlords and Landladies to reach for their phone and order one. (Photo courtesy of Masters Games. I daresay 'other suppliers are available'! Please note I have no financial interest in this or any other games company).

Meanwhile onto the draught beer front. We were indulging in a rather lovely roast Sunday dinner at one of our favourite haunts, The Kings Arms,

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

 Booking essential   www.themuddledmaninn.co.uk  30 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

The

Pub Pages

BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER

as a typical Christmassy beer with all the fine qualities one has come to expect from Butcombe 'Original' as it is now referred to, plus more depth of mouth-feel, character and flavour expected from a seasonal beer of this sort.

Furthermore it is only a mere fraction stronger at 4.1%ABV. It's certainly my 'go to' beer next time I see it. As always there is a choice of four real ales on the bar at this venue, and my fellow Baxter crew member Phil decided on a pint of 'The Misery of Scrooge', a dark, winter beer from the marvellous (and local) brewery at Cerne Abbas, which weighed in at 4.8%ABV. This too was extremely pleasant, although I only had a little taster, (see photos of the beer engines on the bar). Also worth noting is a winter favourite at the King's Arms, Palmers 'Tally-Ho', a 5.5%ABV strong dark ale – again locally brewed, this time at Bridport. I've also included a lovely picture of my wife, and just about visible in the foreground which you may or not be able to see, is the stylish half-pint glass of this ale which I chose as my after dinner drink.

best ales but actively promote CAMRA as an organisation, then find that they are no longer in the guide, is more than a little galling. Such it is with the King's Arms, so my personal recommendation is – go there for good beer – you won't be disappointed! I encourage all CAMRA members to submit beer reports at every visit at every pub, not just the area covered by their local group. (Ours is West Dorset, but inevitably we spend time in Somerset pubs too).

So that's it for 2023. Thank you for reading this far and a very big thankyou to all those who have written during the year. I'm always open to suggestions, and I love hearing news about pubs and pub games happening at your local. Please feel free to join my 'Pub Games' site on Facebook.

Drink the beers, play the games and support the pubs! As the very learned Dr Samuel Johnson observed “There is nothing which has yet been contrived by man, by which so much happiness is produced by a good tavern or inn”.

He knew his stuff, didn't he?

Cheers! © P.A Baxter 2023. skittlealley@hotmail.com Solution to December Sudoku

They Say That with his winning ways, Ansford’s Steve ‘I must stop wearing these leather shoes’ Collings, will soon be known as The Trophy King.

That due to the inclement weather, and a bumpy ride, Tess Bell of Broadwindsor now knows not to put her mobile phone in with the eggs.

That the Seniors Christmas Lunch held at Long Sutton Golf Club was a very noisy affair this year.

That a widescreen TV and a big fountain are planned as part of Yeovil’s regeneration.

That it is worth shopping around when purchasing a Christmas tree, first stop £50 … last stop £15, Ho! Ho! Ho! That dipped headlights recently took on a new meaning.

That although it was meant to be entertainment for the younger members of the group, many grown-ups took part in the ‘Find the Reindeers’ event at Montacute House, Montacute.

That the question being asked in Castle Cary after a recent Christmas Lunch was ‘How many times did Mike Pitman phone his wife on the way home?’

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ 1) 'Queen' 2) Jennifer Rush 3) 2002 4) Lana Del Ray 5) Leo Sayer 6) Paul Anka

On the bar at The King's Arms.

Thornford, when one of the Christmas beers caught my attention. It appealed to me immediately being as it is a product from the Butcombe Brewery. Since (the now late) Simon Whitemore founded the brewery way back in 1978, Butcombe Bitter has always been 'up there' as a consistent, clean and reliable pint. This one – 'Chris Moose' - was just as enjoyable and yet fitted the bill

On the bar at The King's Arms.

Lady Baxter - a Palmer half a pint is just visible if you look closely.

Incidentally, I'm delighted to say that this beer has qualified in the 'strong ales' class and has been nominated for a possible award in a competition run by CAMRA. On the subject of the Campaign for Real Ale, the new Good Beer Guide for 2024 is available for the favourite beer drinker in your life (or even yourself) so it could be on the Christmas present list. As always it's filled with lists of pubs throughout our green and pleasant land where one can guarantee a decent pint of ale.

Also as usual there are some great pubs in there - and unfortunately some glaring omissions too. Whilst I empathise with those who have to chose the entries, there is only a certain amount that each area can submit so the final choices can be difficult. However, where the landlord and staff do their utmost to regularly not only serve up the

7) 'Bad Moon Rising' – Creedance Clearwater Revival 8) 1965 9) 'New Bohemians' 10) Billy Joel

Bonus Question: John Fogerty

Vinny still manages to make it to the pub

THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024 31

REMEMBER WHEN ... ... 30 YEARS AGO FROM The French see sense

THE EARLY 1990s saw an influx of new wines on the shelves of supermarkets and wine stores throughout the country. A report in the January 1994 Visitor commented that ‘you might imagine that the majority of these would come from the New World, but not so – this year we have seen the emergence of a variety of new lower-priced French wines as the vignerons in this classic Old World country fight back against the wave of moderatelypriced Australian and New Zealand wines’. It noted that in almost all areas of France ‘the producers are finally recognising the New World wines as a very serious threat’ after years of being far too complacent, ‘regarding their own wine as being far superior to those being produced in Australia, California and New Zealand’. It concluded that ‘during this last year the French seem to have realised that we Brits are not prepared to pay inflated prices for their products’.

New brew for new year ...

Readers whose preferred tipple is ‘real ale’ will doubtless remember when Chris Norman started brewing Somerset & Dorset Ale in the garage of his West Lydford cottage. The beginning of 1994 saw two big advances for the Cottage Brewing company – the replacement of the existing 4.5-barrel brewing equipment with a new ten-barrel plant (a barrel is 36 gallons, sold in nine-gallon firkins to pubs), and the launch of a new brew.

According to the January Visitor, ‘well on the way is Norman’s Conquest, a winter warmer bottle-conditioned ale that can be kept for a long time, and with an original gravity of 1066 (what else?) it’s certainly strong!’ The writer added that ‘having had a sneak tasting, purely in the interests of research of course, I can report it to be similar in a lot of respects to the S&D but a much fuller flavour and with more body. Not a drink to be hurried.’

... but not if you’re driving

Published shortly before Christmas 1993, the January 1994 Visitor contained the news

that the hard-core drinker is still not listening to the seasonal drink-driving messages.

International research quoted by the RAC showed that ‘drivers well over the limit are the major problem – these drivers account for the majority of fatally-injured drivers’ and are ‘over-represented in serious accidents’. The research showed that the driver is likely to be male, to be leaving his golf club rather than a rave club over the limit, to be a heavy drinker rather than a social drinker, to be driving an expensive saloon car rather than a flashy fast car, and to think that drink doesn’t affect his driving, indeed improves it. According to the RAC ‘he is more likely to have friends who should refuse to share lifts with him’ and ‘he is more likely to frequent regular drinking haunts which should refuse to serve him’. Do recent statistics show much change, I wonder.

Pilgrims no longer rest

One noticeable change in the last 30 years is the considerable reduction in the number of Visitorland’s drinking haunts. Recently on a rare drive from Somerton to Castle Cary I was saddened to see the Pilgrims’ Rest Inn at Lovington closed and boarded up. Thirty years ago the Visitor reported that it had just been reopened after ‘new owners Jeff and Gaynor Wilmott bought the Pilgrims’ Rest in September and have been hard at work restoring it to its former glory’. The description noted that ‘there are two bars ... the public bar which is pleasantly light and airy and the cosy lounge bar’ complete with low ceilings and log fire.

Mention was made too to the dining area with seating for up to 24, and the skittle alley/function room which has ‘now been completely refurbished and heated’.

What optimism the Wilmotts

32 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

must have felt when they bought the pub.

Now you know

Here’s a nice bit of realism that found its way into the January 1994 Visitor. ‘It’s the ads that pay for the free newspapers, and advertisers pass on their costs to consumers when they fix their prices, so the freebies aren’t really free at all. I know that and you know that, but never have I seen it openly admitted – until I came across an article in a marketing magazine that a friend of mine reads. In a revealing interview with John McCallion, marketing director of British Rail’s InterCity Great Western

ARCHIVES services, he explains how the railways are challenging the airlines for passengers from Cardiff and Bristol to London.

“There’s so much more we could do,” he is quoted as saying. “Free newspapers, free tea and coffee, access to a fax machine and mobile telephone en route – it all depends on what people are prepared to pay.” So there you have it – you can have lots of goodies free of charge when you’ve paid for them. That man McCallion’s certainly got a wonderful way with words.’

Roger Richards.

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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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DAVE BUYS ALL TYPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables. Daves Tools, Est. 1989. Tel: 01935 428975

MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY, HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO ALL

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Prize Crossword No. 446 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Monday 22nd January.

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.

REDUNDANT MOTOR MOWERS, rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, 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 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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Clues Across: 8. Vehicle takes first prize with fish [4] 9. Gaseous tune [3] 10. Put an edge on holy man - truly [6] 11. Sailor remitted when away [6] 12. Diligence in attempt to follow river [8] 13. Oven artist coins term for campaigner for the environment [15] 15. Tin 500 of us in all honesty [7] 17. Ale numb with egg-white? [7] 20. On no account carried by my fool! [3, 2, 4, 6] 23. Gent holds arid mixture going up or down [8] 25. Cause resentment with right foot joint [6] 26. A laird comes from the centre [6] 27. Dispose of half the bridge [3] 28. Issue good air [4] Clues Down: 1. Jeer about a medics long grass [6] 2. Pacified: Made faces about vegetables [8] 3. Wild flowers heard in Kent [10, 5] 4. A strain for a worker [7] 5. Communists in US state are chickens! [5, 6, 4] 6. One abroad is working all as one [6] 7. Employer is American queen [4]

14. Observe in whose eyes? [3] 16. In times past with a turn [3] 18. Use sling for unpleasant sight [8] 19. Cloths of Ted Russ? [7] 21. Decree, “Admit to holy orders.”

[6] 22. At home, put down far from the sea [6] 24. Concerning the morning with a score of quires [4]

Solution to Crossword 445

Winner of the December Crossword is Rachel Wray of Shepton Mallet who chose to spend the £15 voucher at The Natterjack Inn, Evercreech Junction.

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

34 THE VISITOR Christmas/January 2024

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ALSOGUNS GUNSSOLD SOLD ALSO