Reaching a century is usually an occasion for celebration, but a centenary in Somerton this year will be tinged with considerable sadness. News that the Overt Locke business is up for sale has been described as heartbreaking by local MP Sarah Dyke in a recent Parliamentary debate, citing the detrimental effects of business rates and increased National Insurance contributions on the financial viability of many rural businesses. And Neil Taylor, grandson of founder Overt Locke, is on record as saying ‘we’ve explored every avenue to keep it running, and while we’re actively seeking a buyer to continue its operation, the reality of the current retail environment makes the outcome uncertain.’ He warned that ‘the site could be redeveloped if a buyer wishing to continue the business cannot be found’.
Overt Locke is the oldest shop in Somerton. Although the town contains some very much older buildings that were or still are shops, Locke’s can claim the title because it has traded continuously from the same site for longer than any other Somerton business; in fact, for 100 years. And it has proved to be a Somerton success story –until now. Overt had returned to Somerton in 1918 from army service in the First World War and initially assisted his father Frederick Locke who ran an agricultural machinery depot. Seven years later, after a disagreement with his father, Overt founded his own business in 1925 at his thatched house on West Street opposite the Unicorn Hotel.
The tiny shop was basically an ironmongery, selling all manner of household goods and, later, paraffin and petrol. He sold the petrol in cans – so he had to replace the thatched roof with something less combustible! He also expanded into builders’ supplies, opened branches in Castle Cary and Langport, and ran mobile shops which daily carried a huge variety of goods to villages throughout a wide area. He built a large fuel depot off the Long Sutton Road and later still came
the garden centre at the side of the West Street shop.
The business is rare in having been very much a family concern for the whole of its long history, with successive generations of Lockes being active in its prosperity and growth. The late Alan Overt Locke joined his father from the army in 1949 and helped the business to grow and change from being mainly an ironmongery into a quality department store. It still stocks nuts, bolts and other ironmongery in the do-it-yourself department, alongside decorating materials, tools, plumbing and rainwater goods, timber, cement, chipboard. fencing panels etc, but the showrooms also house a broad range of glassware and pottery, tableware, kitchen requisites of every description, and plenty to please the homemaker, the gift-hunter and the home brewer and winemaker.
Today the shop still occupies Overt’s Tudor house but most of the display space is in modern buildings at the rear. No closing date has been announced yet and the business is still actively trading. It’s well worth a visit.
NN.
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May Issue Deadline: 22nd April Published: 30th April
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.
The Vintage Bazaar Saturday April 26th at Cheese and Grain, Frome, 9am-2pm
THE eagerly awaited Vintage Bazaar fair is set to enchant shoppers and collectors alike on Saturday, April 26th, at The Cheese and Grain venue in Frome, Somerset. Nestled in the heart of this charming town, the fair will be open from 9am to 2pm, inviting visitors to explore a treasure trove of unique finds and timeless pieces.
The event is well known for bringing together some of the very best dealers and collectors of French brocante, decorative antiques and vintage fashion/textiles so whether you are a maker, a designer or just someone who appreciates beautiful things this event is definitely one to put in the diary.
The Vintage Bazaar is a curated fair celebrating the beauty of bygone eras. With a focus on French brocante, antique textiles, decorative antiques, and vintage fashion, the fair brings together a unique blend of timeless pieces for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Join in for a day of exploration, discovery, and
a journey into the past. Expect to find heirloom monogrammed linens, rolls of antique ribbons, original 1940’s dresses, American patchworks, decorative antiques and so much more.
With easy parking directly outside the venue and the wonders of Frome to explore afterwards with its independent shops and cafes it truly is a fabulous day out.
For more information visit www.thevintagebazaar.co.uk.
The Vintage Bazaar takes place on 26th April at the Cheese and Grain, Frome.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Somerset Wildlife Trust asks us all to become hoverfly heroes for this year’s Wild about Gardens campaign
The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) are calling on gardeners across the country to help save hoverflies. This fly family is the second most significant pollinator after bees – some species of hoverfly are known to visit more flowers than bees.
These insects are unsung heroes of many of our ecosystems. Hoverflies visit 52% of crops globally, which they either pollinate or protect by eating sapsucking aphids. Additionally, they pollinate wildflowers, are food for birds and even help break down organic matter in gardens. Yet, intensive agriculture, harmful pesticides, urban development and climate change have all taken their toll. Hoverfly distribution has seen a 44% decline between 1980 to 2020 and in 2022 the International Union for the Conservation of Nature added hoverflies to its Red List of threatened species.
Hoverflies are masters of disguise. These stingless insects are often mistaken for wasps, bees or even hornets and the different types go by various common names such as Batman, Footballer and Marmalade, thanks to their distinctive markings and colours.
True flies have only one pair of flight wings (whereas bees and wasps have two) and they make up over 280 of the 6000 fly species in the UK. It can be easier to identify them by their behaviour than their looks, because they hover or even zigzag around plants.
Bryony Slaymaker, Wilder Communities Manager at Somerset Wildlife Trust, says:
“Hoverflies are a tiny but essential part of the natural world, and we’d love everyone in Somerset who has a garden, allotment, outdoor space or even just a window box to consider making their space more inviting for these special creatures! You can access lots of free tips and tricks to make your garden more wildlife-friendly on our website.”
Vicki Hird, author of Rebugging the Planet and strategic agriculture lead for The Wildlife Trusts, says:
“Hoverflies are the hidden heroes of our gardens and countryside – but whatever their shape, size or disguise, they are critical for our food security. They can thrive in well-managed woodlands and wetlands, but there is also so much we could be doing in our gardens to help. Providing a range of flowers to feed on through the year, ponds for larvae to grow in, dead wood to lay eggs in and even a few aphid pests for them to feed on, and you will have these gardeners' friends for life. And they are so helpful, and don't bite or sting. You can be a hoverfly champion by telling friends and family to cherish them.”
Helen Bostock, Senior Wildlife Specialist at the Royal Horticultural Society, says: “We’d like people to open their garden gates to hoverflies this summer. These incredible insects help
Batman hoverfly. Image: The Wildlife Trusts/Frank Porch.
pollinate our plants, keep aphids in balance and break down rotting matter in the garden. Gardeners can help attract them by planting open, easily accessible flowers. In spring, they’ll be drawn to aubretia. In summer, they’ll love blackberry flowers, oxeye daisy, marigolds, fennel, cow parsley and poppies. Come autumn, they can be seen on heather, aster and even common ivy.”
Experts from the two charities have designed a series of projects for gardeners to help hoverflies in spaces large or small.
• Pollinator plant boxes: Ideal for small-space gardens or balconies, these can be jampacked with flowering plants to suit the season, representing a giant buffet for visiting hoverflies.
• Hoverfly lagoons: These are pools of shallow water where fallen leaves create a perfect breeding ground for many of the hoverfly species which have aquatic larvae.
• Larvae nurseries: Log piles and even shrubs can make perfect homes for hoverfly larvae.
To identify which hoverflies are visiting your garden, and to find out more about how you can help save this species, please visit www.wildaboutgardens.org.uk.
Photography Competition to Win £1,000 Luxury Getaway
To mark 20 years of championing care in communities across the UK, leading homecare provider Caremark is inviting residents to enter its unique photography competition titled ‘What is care?’ for a chance to win a £1,000 luxury getaway.
Whether it’s a simple gesture like someone holding another’s hand, a care worker in action, a comforting hug between family or friends, or the bond between a pet and its owner, Dorset residents are encouraged to enter the competition online and submit photographs which capture their personal vision of what care means to them – any creative interpretation of care will be considered.
After a panel of judges at Caremark has shortlisted 12 photographs – one from each UK region – the finalists will go head-to-head in a nationwide social media vote, where the public will choose their favourite and determine who wins the £1,000 luxury getaway.
The competition is open to UK residents aged 18 and over. For full details, visit www.care mark.co.uk/whatiscare. The deadline for entries is midnight on 15.6.25.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Somerset Art Works and The Somerset Craft Guild are joining together for the future and offering a new Bursary Programme for Emerging Craftspeople and Makers.
The Somerset Craft Guild is one of the oldest Craft Guilds in the country and has been promoting excellence in craftsmanship and design since 1933.
Following the sad closure of the Guild’s physical premises in Wells, they are delighted to announce a new and exciting era for craft in the county as Somerset Art Works and The Somerset Craft Guild join together for the future. Together they will be continuing the vital legacy work of the Somerset Craft Guild, whilst fostering and encouraging the development of a new generation of craftspeople through an exciting upcoming programme of opportunities, bursaries, exhibitions and more.
As part of this new partnership, they are excited to announce the Somerset Art Works and Somerset Craft Guild Bursary Programme for Emerging Craftspeople and Makers. Each year, this new bursary will support three emerging makers born, living, or working in Somerset (including BANES and NE Somerset) to further their individual practices and develop high quality work. Providing opportunities to work with or be mentored by established makers, to create new work, and reach new audiences -
all with a core focus on retaining, sustaining and developing high quality craft practice in Somerset.
The Bursary includes:
● £1500 towards personal and professional development (inclusive of materials and travel)
● One year’s complimentary ‘Access to Art’ Emerging Maker SAW Membership (if applicants are not already members)
● A minimum of two development sessions with Somerset Art Works in-house Artist Development Team, with ongoing support available as needed
● Mentorship/Buddying with an established specialist maker, or equivalent appropriate support towards specialist development
● Publicity and promotion of practice and any associated work and events on a national platform
● Ongoing association with and support from Somerset Craft Guild and Somerset Art Works alongside supporting the makers through financial uplift, and development sessions with a relevant, established maker, this year successful applicants will also have the opportunity to join Somerset Art Works at Bovey Tracey Craft Festival where they will develop and deliver a dropin workshop or demonstration that celebrates their practice and Craft.
For the full bursary brief and application details, visit the Somerset Art Works website https://somersetartworks.org.uk/ artistdevelopment/somerset-artworks-the-somerset-craft-guild. If you have any questions about the joining of Somerset Art Works and The Somerset Craft Guild, or the Bursary Programme, contact emily.lewin@somersetart works.org.uk.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Castle Cary Choir Celebrates 60 years of song! Yes, Castle Cary Choir really is that old! They start their celebrations with a concert on home ground in All Saints Church in Castle Cary with a joint concert with the Wincanton Silver Band on Saturday 12th April at 7.30pm in aid of the Church. Tickets are £10 and will be available from Bailey Hill Bookshop and the Market House Information Centre in Castle Cary, also from Ticket Source on the All Saints website www.castlecaryallsaints.org.uk/ coming-up.
Their second concert will be in Sherborne Abbey at 7.30pm on Saturday the 31st of May. Joining will be three of their professional musician friends who have supported them over the years. They are Tom Toomey (guitar), Marta Fontanals-Simmonds (soprano) and Adelaide Brown (flute).
In 2015 they held their very successful 50th Anniversary concert in Sherborne Abbey in aid of St Margarets Hospice. This time they will be singing to raise money for Maple Ward, the new Breast Cancer Unit in Yeovil District Hospital. Tickets will be £10 and available from the Abbey Parish Office and Bailey Hill
Bookshop in Castle Cary (for more see website). There will be a retiring collection to be split between the Abbey and their chosen charity (Maple Ward).
The music for both concerts will be the usual mix of genres, from songs from the shows, via original music written by their very talented MD Martin Emslie; traditional and classic choral pieces and specially arranged spirituals to sacred music.
The choir is a four part community choir and a charity. They are always keen to welcome mew members in all voices, choral experience is not needed, nor is the ability to read music. They rehearse in the Methodist Church, North Street Castle Cary at 7.30 pm to 9.30pm.
Wells Comedy Festival 2025 Lou Sanders, Spencer Jones, Hal Cruttenden and Lucy Pearman join the line-up plus extra shows added for Simon Amstell and Sara Pascoe.
Wells Comedy Festival announce even more incredible names joining the line-up for the festival this year. Dancing On Ice star and Taskmaster champion Lou Sanders will be heading to Somerset for the bank holiday festival weekend alongside Spencer Jones who makes a huge return this year as a firm festival favourite.
Live at the Apollo ’ s Hal Cruttenden is back with a brandnew tour show and Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Lucy Pearman joins the bill. Plus Sara Pascoe and Simon Amstell both add extra shows due to hugely popular demand.
The stellar line-up already includes: Rosie Jones, Amy Gledhill, Glenn Moore, Rhys James, Jessica Fostekew, Nick Helm, Chloe Petts, Katie Norris, Joe Kent-Walters, Chris Cantrill, Thanyia Moore, Abby Wambaugh, Mat Ewins, Michael Akadiri, Peter Rethinasamy, Marjolein Robertson and more!
Tickets are selling fast for the festival’s four gala performances which will feature incredible lineups of festival acts. The festival takes place Fri 23 - Sun 25 May with tickets on sale at www. wellscomfest.com.
Castle Cary Choir in rehearsal.
Castle Cary Choir in concert mode.
Mentioned in Dispatches
More people in the South West set to benefit from Orchestra's community music
Music can be life-changing, and studies frequently demonstrate its positive impact on wellbeing, teamwork, reasoning, creativity and self-esteem. While talent is distributed equally, opportunity is not – within Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s 10,000square-mile territory, districts in 71% of counties have been identified by Arts Council England as Levelling Up for Culture Places.
BSO Participate sits at the core of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s mission of bringing music into people’s lives. Last year, the Orchestra created over 47,000 opportunities for people of all ages to experience the joy, inspiration and healing power of live music-making.
The Garfield Weston Foundation has committed to underpin the work of BSO
Participate for a three-year period, pledging £300,000 to the Orchestra’s work in communities.
A family-founded grant maker, the Foundation supports quality and excellence within the community, through arts, youth, health and environment initiatives.
Last year, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra launched a pilot programme with Dorset County Hospital and Arts in Hospital with weekly musicmaking workshops tailored for patients and staff in its dementia, stroke and children’s wards. In
2025, the programme expands across other Dorset Health Care sites, in Poole and Sherborne. With the support of the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Orchestra aims to work with key NHS trusts in the region over the next three years, providing yearround support to benefit an estimated 200 nurses and 1,180 patients and their families.
The BSO is committed to ensuring all children in the region reap the benefits of musicmaking. Last year, there were 35,902 participations in the Orchestra’s music education
projects in 66 locations.
The Orchestra plans to deepen access to its music education projects, thanks to the Foundation’s support. Chamberscale concerts will continue for Key Stage 1 pupils in South Somerset, in partnership with The Octagon, Yeovil – plus, SEND schools’ concerts will reach into Bristol, Dorset and Hampshire.
To learn more about Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s work in communities across the South West, visit bsolive.com.
Star violinist Alena Baeva performed to patients at Dorset County Hospital in early 2025. Image: BSO.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Monthly talks from the Arts Society Mendip
Tuesday 1st April: The Arts Society Mendip. The Road to Santiago de Compostela: Pilgrimage and Spectacle. Ian Cockburn, specialist in the 800 years of Moorish occupation and Christian reconquest of medieval
Iberia, will describe how, from the 11th century, the cathedral of this city was the 3rd most important pilgrimage site after Jerusalem and Rome.
The ‘camino’ is dotted with Romanesque churches and monasteries, with architecture, art and reliquaries to venerate the saints and attract the pilgrims. 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 (up to a maximum of 3 lectures in a season) for £10.
Tuesday 6th May: Island
Sanctuary: Refugee Artists in Britain from The Huguenots to the Present Day. Monica BohmDuchen will highlight the contribution to Britain’s artistic heritage refuges from around the world have made over the centuries.
Examples will include Isaac Oliver, James Tissot, David Bomberg and Lucian Freud. Some of her fee will be donated to a Ukrainian refugee charity. 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 (up to a maximum of 3 lectures in a season) for £10. More information and our full programme are available on our websitewww.theartssocietymendip.org .uk.
Wells Classic Motorcycle Club who are Celebrating their 25th Anniversary year
Celebrated in fine style at the recent Bristol Classic Motorcycle show 22nd and 23rd of February
The club won 1st Best Show stand with a theme of a Street Party in Wells Market Place and a café called “Jubilee Café” which was supported by a fine display of motorcycles ranging from a 1914 Douglas through the years to a 2000 Kawasaki ZZR.
The theme was also complimented by Jany Scott dressed as a Cake and Mike Parfitt as Town Crier complete with a bell.
Jany was equipped with a ‘Rattle bucket’ collecting donations for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance in return to being invited into their ‘Jubilee Café’ for Tea or Coffee and a slice of cake, all of which was donated by members.
The café team of Sheila, Jean and Ken supported by others at peak periods were kept very busy and between them all raised a whopping £2090.70. for the Air Ambulance.
The club also won the £750.00. prize money for ‘Best Club stand’. The clubs next fundraiser is the 14th ‘Annual Tortoise and
Mentioned in Dispatches
Hare run’ which also includes a Snail section at which they raise much needed funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and EVS Freewheelers (The Blood Bikes). Many of their members are strong supporters of these charities.
The annual event is held over the weekend of 18/19/20th of July and is open to all Motorcycles, Scooters and Trikes etc through the 3 run catagories listed on the Poster.
The club welcomes new members regardless of age of
machine or rider, also you are welcome if just interested in Motorcycles as they also have a fairly strong social element.
All club details plus Tortoise and Hare entry forms, Posters etc are available at www.wellsclassic motorcycleclub.weebly.com or email chriswcmc@hotmail.com.
Chorale21's Songs for Spring, Saturday 5 April, St John's Glastonbury Chorale21 is delighted to present a concert that combines muchloved classics with a modern piece that is both beautiful and accessible. Musical Director, Matthew Redman, explains the
thinking behind the choice of music.
“Handel's Coronation Anthems are uplifting pieces as befitting a coronation and the opening of our inaugural concert. Zadok the Priest is a perennial favourite, known and loved by many. My Heart is Inditing is less well
Wells Classic Motorcycle Club with their award.
Mentioned in
Dispatches
known, but is full of beautiful, delicate music, which builds to a joyful conclusion in the final bars. Parry's Blest Pair of Sirens opens with a lengthy organ solo that will showcase the fantastic instrument in St John's Glastonbury. A long work bursting with gorgeous melodies and rich harmonies, this would not be out of place at the Last Night of the Proms!”
Reflecting a commitment to
performing music written this century at every concert, Chorale21 is privileged to be giving one of the first performances of James
Whitbourn's Son of God Mass in the UK.
As Redman continues, “This sensitive setting of the Latin text features a solo saxophone, which adds a whole new sound world to our concert.”
Fulfilling that role will be local saxophonist Edward Leaker, who is Head of Woodwind and Jazz at Wells Cathedral School.
7.30pm on Saturday 5 April, St John's Glastonbury. Tickets are available on the door for £12, payable by card or cash. Refreshments available.
For more information, email info@chorale21.org.uk.
Happy Easter from
Taxation & Representation
Sir, Students of 18th century history will recognise those two words as being the inflammatory call to arms instigating what we British call The American War of Independence whilst our cousins over the pond now prefer to name as 'The Revolutionary War', which indeed it was - and one which fuelled the embers of what very soon was to become the infamous French Revolution both of which shook the very foundations of the social, political status quo, turning the world as it was known 'upside down'.
Readers of The Visitor may well ask where this is leading so may I again refer to the title of this letter, “Taxation & Representation”.
Putting all domestic political leanings to one side no-one can doubt that Whitehall has taken a rather undemocratic decision in regard to planning matters by removing the ability of County Councils to represent the views and protestations of local populations in regard to the wholesale destruction of rural towns and villages by ludicrous and unwarranted overdevelopment of residential housing - a policy which seems to carry the taint of vindictive class warfare and vengeful spite. Since our local and wellintended councils have also been denied the right to raise meaningful objections to crass housing schemes our rural populations are now denied all rights of representation in such draconian matters.
Hundreds and thousands of new houses - 'affordable' or not(a moot point indeed) - will mean that the coffers of our taxation masters will be swollen to previously unimagined levelsyet our own council tax levels will rise yet again.
Yes - now all is clear - but surely if we are disallowed the right to object or protest then all related planning elements of all council taxes both at local and county level should be reduced proportionally - ergo - no taxation without representation.
Failing that - perhaps an all out council tax strike?
A R Middleton-Snead (Richard) Castle Cary
Have your say: May Deadline 22nd April
Saxophonist Edward Leaker.
April Notice Board
CASTLE CARY
Saturday 12th April at All Saints' Church Castle Cary - concert by Castle Cary Choir and Wincanton Silver Band at 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from Bailey Hill Bookshop, Market House and via the church website, £12 on the door. Refreshments.
Spring Dating with Alison at Just Somerset Introductions
Spring has sprung! Daffodils and tulips are out and the countryside is coming back to life with new growth. Easter is a bit later this year and let’s hope the lovely sunshine we’ve had recently continues into April.
Spring is a great time to get out and meet people who are also looking to meet someone and who knows - possibly start a new relationship!
Fed up with the dating apps? We are a more bespoke Introduction Agency where we offer one to one introductions and social events. We’ve had some lovely lunches out at good pubs along with theatre visits, trips to
MARTOCK
HMS Heron Volunteer Band concert, Thursday 15th May at Martock Church; TA12 6JL.
Performance time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £12 or £10 at Guardianstickets@gmail.com /07547 213992/Martock Gallery/ Martock Newsagent. Website: https://www.hmsheron band.co.uk, http://www.martock online.co.uk/events.
The concert includes popular classics, overtures, film music, selections from West End shows, military marches, and contemporary works.
quirky cafés, markets, skittles, days out ten pin bowling and much more!
We offer one to one introductions and socials in a professional, caring and confidential way which all starts with an interview in your own home. All clients have their ID checked and every member receives the monthly newsletter with details of members profiles and the events we have on that month. We are in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Devon. You can meet members throughout the group. See our website for more details of how we work and read testimonials too. Have a look and give me a call!
So, you think you know your Pop music, do you ?
By John Osborne
Answers can be found on page 31
1) Name the band at number one 50 years ago (April 1975) with 'Bye, Bye, Baby'.
2) Who were 'Perfect' in 1988?
3) Lyric: My breath smells of a thousand fags so when I'm drunk I dance like me Dad”
4) Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars were number one in April 2015 with which song?
5) The Goo Goo Dolls have been creeping back up the chart recently with a song about which young lady?
6) The single Ticket to Ride was released by the Beatles 60 years ago in April 1965. It featured on which album, released later in the year?
7) Lady Gaga and The Steve Miller Band released a different song with the same title - name it.
8) Who were the band who sang about ‘Valleri’ in 1968?
9) Goddess in the Doorway was a 2001 solo album released by whom?
10) With what instrument do we most associate with Alan Price?
Bonus Question:
Name the year for the first release of the song that's the answer to Q:3
Worth A Guess:
How many times has a song simply entitled 'Crazy' entered the charts at one time or another, some original, some covers?
Great Quotes in Music (138)
“I always like the studio best, once I got the hang of it and the control. I like it because it's complete control” - John Lennon
Sudoku by T. M.
Answers to March Sudoku on page 31.
Family Health with
Jenna Evans
HAPPY Spring! Hopefully the weather has finally warmed up a little and we can all spend more time out in restorative nature. This month I'm going to be talking about the skin. I've had a few people with odd rashes in the shop lately and I have also had a strange outbreak!
The skin is a pretty impressive organ. Still considered the largest organ of the body (although, since its discovery, the fascia/ interstitium is suggested as having this title. A fascinating area to delve into if you have time!) The skin is a primary protective organ. It keeps our insides where they should be, aids in temperature regulation and acts as a route of elimination. This last role is important in the holistic health perspective. The four main routes of elimination for the body are the lungs, kidneys, bowel and skin. If anything goes awry with one of these routes, then the others may be compromised. So with many skin complaints we will always be looking to support the other cleansing organs. The skin is also host to trillions of micro-
organisms. Yes, we are teeming with life! Bacteria often get a bad rap, but when the skin biome is harmonious, much like the gut, it helps prevent colonisation from pathogenic organisms and is a valuable part of our bodies defence. Also, much like the gut, using anti-biotics can disrupt this balance. I have seen this with bacterial and fungal skin infections – becoming a vicious cycle. Heavy use of hand sanitisers can be very damaging as well. I saw many cases of eczema when people were hand sanitising regularly. I'd rather nurture my defensive biome than wipe it out thank you! Also, we have a tendency to slap all kinds of chemical concoctions on our poor bods – harsh detergents, 'parfum' laced lotions, antiperspirants. None of which can be conducive to a healthy skin. If you have any kind of skin complaint, looking at these regular use products is a first port of call. Use a reference like the EWGs SkinDeep database to dig a little more into the ingredients in your products.
There are some well known chronic skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Today I'm going to focus on random rashes, hives and skin infections but will revisit the skin next month for the chronic conditions. Two things I always include are nettles (tea, or in a green juice
blend) and vitamin C. Both useful anti-histamines. I have also found using colloidal silver topically a help for most people. A great antimicrobial and wound healer, it can be easily applied regularly to the skin (including in more sensitive areas and is safe for children). It can be a little drying sometimes but that can be remedied by following its application with a soothing body butter. Here's a recipe – Gently melt 1 part shea butter & 1 part oil of your choosing (good quality olive, avocado or oat oil are my favourites). Give it a good whip,
cool and poor into sterile jars. This is a simple recipe that can be made thicker or thinner by changing the ratios of the shea (very hard butter) and the other oil. Essential oils can also be added when it's cooled but not set. I kept it plain when I had hives and it worked well. Aloe vera is another excellent base. I found this helpful when I had a Strep B infection on the skin years ago. I added oils of oregano and thyme (only 12 drops to 100ml as these are potent oils and it stung – a lot!) Worked a treat though. Something else I'm
Fuss Sergey/Shutterstock.com.
experimenting with on skin irritations are topical probiotics. You'll see pro and post biotics often mentioned in cosmetics these days but I'm thinking a good liquid probiotic slathered on may be the way to go, cheaper too!
•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.
Hopper’s Hat Hire of Yeovil
If you are looking for an overwhelming selection of beautiful hats, hatinators and fascinators to HIRE, then a visit to Hooper’s Hat HIRE is a must.
Sally continually updates her already extensive collection with the majority being her own exclusive creations, so no chance of getting caught in the same hat as somebody else.
You will be amazed at her glamorous bespoke racing collection for those of you that
enjoy a day at the races, Ascot is one of Sally’s busiest weeks.
You also have the option of having something made exclusively for you to purchase to complement your outfit.
You will receive plenty of friendly help and advice to make the right choice for you. Sally’s showroom offers a very relaxed atmosphere and her main concern is that you are comfortable and happy with what you have chosen for your special day.
Check out her facebook page for a small sample of what is on offer.
Ward & Sibley - the jewellers of Yeovil.
A vast selection of hats available to hire at Hooper’s Hat Hire, Yeovil.
Image:
North Dorset Cat Care
NATIONAL PET MONTH
#NationalPetMonth: April 1 - May 1
DO you hate taking your cat to the cattery and are worried about the price of cat sitters?
Well now you can have your cats looked after in your own
will
home by a fully insured CRB checked confirmed cat lover. As cats remain in their own homes keeping them at ease, cat lover Carol will only look after 6 cats at a time so they can get full attention, including any medicinal needs.
Carol charges per visit rather than per pet, and it’s not just cats as she will also look after rabbits, guinea pigs, and hens too. You can be assured your pets are in safe caring hands as she is fully insured and DBS checked.
Many Brands of Dog & Cat Food Stocked Dog & Cat Treats, Toys & Beds
Small Animal Foods, Treats Hay and Straw
Wide Selection of Wild Bird Food & Feeders
ORDERS WELCOME
If there is something you require which we don’t stock, we will endeavour to order it for you
Pets have their own way of communicating.
To get your pet care booked please call 07917 612233 or email catzarewow@gmail.com. Find out more at www.northdorsetcat care.co.uk.
Bretts (C Brett & Son), Pet & Wildlife Supplies in Sherborne
Bretts (C Brett & Son) Pet and Wildlife supplies is situated in the Old Market Car park in Sherborne and is a long established business. They have a large range of wild bird food and feeders to cater for all types of birds. They also have an extensive range of dog and cat toys, plus all the usual pet foods, beds, leads and accessories, hedgehog and wildlife foods and supplies etc.
Open Mon-Fri 9am-5.15pm, Sat 9am-4.45pm. Tel 01935 812107.
Karen the proprietor at Brunel Pet Centre.
Bretts Pet & Wildlife Supplies in Old Market Car park, Sherborne.
North Dorset Cat Care
look after your cat.
Spring update from Lizzie Price Shading Solutions
THE early spring days that we have with the sun shining through our windows remind us that if it feels hot now behind the glass it’s going to be unbearable
by the summer. With that in mind the Spring is a good time to get planning how you are going to keep your home and outdoor living areas cool over the summer.
At LPSS we have a vast range for internal and external shading.
If you are looking for blinds or shutters we are experts in getting the right product installed to provide you with a cooler, shaded room or a darkened room for sleeping as the daylight hours lengthen.
Our extensive range of products for your outdoor living area include folding arm retractable Awnings, pergola Awnings, Verandas with glass or
polycarbonate roofs with optional sides and sliding glass doors. External roller blinds for rooflights or windows, and premium quality louvred roof pergolas. We will listen carefully to what you want to achieve and advise you on the best option for you and guarantee our first class installation. Tel: 07879 992000 or email: enquiries@lizzieprice shadingsolutions.co.uk.
Spring cleaning can boost property value by 10% as market heats up ahead of summer
THE latest research by HaMuch reveals that, as transaction levels start to heat up ahead of the summer, a spring clean of the home and garden could boost the
value of your home by almost £45,000!
As spring arrives, homeowners across the country will be thinking about spring cleaning –dusting the winter away and decluttering to help the home feel fresh for the upcoming summer. But for those who are also
planning to sell their property in 2025, a spring clean could do far more than bring a sense of accomplishment.
More homes sell in spring and summer
Analysis of housing market data from the last decade, conducted by HaMuch, shows that winter tends to be the quietest season for house purchases, with an average of 75,874 transactions completing during the winter months.
In Spring, this increases to 77,210 transactions as the market gears up for its busy summer months during which an average of 87,460 transactions take place. This means that spring into summer is a great time of year to put your home on the market, with plenty of eager buyers arriving to significantly increase your chances of securing a sale.
House prices also heat up
And it’s not just your chances of finding a buyer that ramps up in spring – the value of your home is likely to increase, too.
The analysis by HaMuch shows that, over the last decade, house prices tend to fall by -0.2% during the winter months, before climbing by 1.1% in spring and by a further 1.7% in summer.
How much value can a spring clean add to your home?
HaMuch’s research also shows that conducting a thorough spring clean could help sellers
add even more value on top of this seasonal price boost.
Carrying out a thorough deep clean of a property can add, on average, +2.8% to its market value which, based on the current average UK house price of £268,087, is equivalent to £7,506.
Decluttering can have an even greater impact, as clearing the home of unnecessary objects and mess can add +3.9% to its value, equivalent to £10,455. But the biggest boost of all comes from the property’s exterior, as ensuring the garden is clean, tidy, and decluttered can boost its value by a remarkable +10%, or £26,809. That’s a total boost of £44,771 in the value of your home for little more than a thorough clean and a bit of elbow grease.
Spring cleaning costs also on the up
You can choose to carry out a spring clean and decluttering operation yourself, but it can be time consuming and demanding work, so hiring a professional could be the wisest move, especially considering how much value a thorough clean can add to your property.
The average cost of a house cleaner currently stands at £12.70 per hour having increased +7.6% in the past year. Meanwhile, the average cost of a gardener stands at £14.31 per hour having increased by +7.4%. While these costs have increased, they remain a small price to pay for potentially boosting your property value by 10%.
Founder and CEO of HaMuch.com, Tarquin Purdie, commented:
“The power of a spring clean is astonishing. Not only does it help clear the mind and offer a psychological reset after a long, cold winter, but can also lead to
Spring cleaning can boost property value. Image: Simol1407/Shutterstock.com.
huge financial gains for those who are looking to sell their home.
Hiring a professional cleaner and gardener makes a huge difference. We’re all so time poor at the moment that finding a moment to conduct a full and thorough cleaning is difficult, especially if we want it done to the highest possible standard.
Bringing someone in will help ensure that the job is done to a professional standard, offering a real fresh start ahead of the spring and summer months.”
Upsizers account for 70% of the market – but they’re fighting an uphill battle
The latest research by leading residential Park Bungalow provider, Regency Living, reveals that upsizers account for more than 70% of current homebuyers, and that their efforts are being hampered by insufficient market stock of suitable family homes.
Regency Living has surveyed current UK homebuyers and found that 72% of respondents are looking to upsize – buy a property that is larger than their current home.
54% of respondents say that their main motivator for upsizing is children. While 20% are looking to upsize because they’ve got more children on the way, 18% are motivated by the imminent arrival of their first child, and 16% are looking for more space because they plan to have children soon.
Another common motivator is the desire to have more outdoor space (12%).
However, the majority of upsizers are finding the process difficult, with almost 60% (59%) saying they are struggling to find a suitable property. This marks an increase of +7% compared to Q4 2024 when 52% of upsizers were struggling to find a suitable home.
The most common reason for this struggle is an insufficient amount of stock listed on the
market (39%), while high house prices (30%), and a lack of available equity in their existing property (14%) are other common obstacles.
Sales & Marketing Director at Regency Living, Tim Simmons commented:
“So much attention is paid to first-time buyers that upsizers, or second steppers, are often ignored despite making up a large portion of the current homebuyer cohort. And while first-time buyers certainly face significant challenges in today’s property market, upsizers are also confronted with major obstacles, not least a lack of suitable stock
Some of our recent previous research revealed that 93% of over-50s who currently live in family homes have no intention of downsizing to a smaller home, and herein lies a real problem. If older homeowners are choosing not to downsize and instead stay in their large properties, it means the market suffers a drought of upsizer homes.
So, in order to increase the opportunity for people to take a second step up the ladder, more
older homeowners need to downsize. And downsizing can bring all sorts of valuable benefits.
Downsizing enables homeowners to release a good portion of the equity currently tied up in their property, freeing up money that can be spent enjoying a great retirement or helping out younger generations of the family. Downsizing also enables older people who live
alone or in a couple to live in a more manageable home. Smaller homes are also cheaper to run, which can make a huge difference to household finances when the cost of living is as high as it currently is. And finally, downsizing provides you with the opportunity to make a new home in a community of like-minded people of a similar age, providing the support and security that can be so valuable in later life.”
Image: William Barton/Shutterstock.com.
The Bigger Picture With Bridget Sudworth
ON a mild balmy day recently, it suddenly seemed a good time to plant broad beans so out came the battered old polystyrene boxes and in went the beans. All lined up, they were, on an outside table top gearing up for germination. Then out comes the sun followed by really crisp nights with low temps so who knows what the beans are thinking now? They could all decide to freeze to death and will need replacing. How long should one wait for the results or should I go rummaging about in the compost to see if any show signs of life? Or worse, plant another lot now so as not to miss the season? Thus starts another Spring!
The sunshine has been a huge talking point among dog walkers so it’s really great to share the dazzling brightness with so many when the clouds of international, disorderly rage are looming largely both east and west with such disturbing uncertainty. Talking about Trump/Putin/poor old Zelensky with younger members of the family is always interesting as attitudes inevitably reflect different viewpoints all of which helps to enrich and widen one’s understanding of what it all means and where it might lead. It only serves to remind the world that debate is essential and not listening to other people can be very dangerous. Fixed ideas really have to be thrown out, more flexible thinking is paramount.
On a more mundane and certainly local level, wading across soggy, clogged up clay based fields of beastly rye grass, moisture retained so efficiently from too much winter rain, reminds one that rye grass is really horrid. Wilfred, so very close to the ground with his fat little spade-like paws, has been bathed to distraction on returning home and has begun to look rather grubby round the head which is the bit that gets missed out when he’s in the sink! But thinking about grass drove me to check out why farmers like rye grass so much, as if I didn’t know; it’s tough, grows fast yielding several crops a year for silage, endures wet winters and low temps and is weed resistant. In our locality, with so many dairy cattle needed for the milk production of cheese, it seems unavoidable but makes for dull fields with no insect life, no
humus, no wild flowers. Headlands left to nature would rebalance things enormously but they are not favoured among farmers here, it seems and yet, would offer a useful expedient.
In a diminishing world of wildlife, it was a real comfort to hear the hunting owl who at least must be finding voles to eat!
Quite relevant to these thoughts was the sound of Sir
Thanks to Dyson Technology, not only can you hoover your carpet and dry your hands in the public loo but maybe you can invent machinery to use insecticide that cleverly avoids the nest of a marsh harrier or
only pinpoints individual weeds in any field as well as designing robots to pick the harvest from 1.4 million strawberry plants which he grows all the year round and which apparently, taste good. Dyson has the biggest farming industry in the UK with 36,000 acres spread between Lincolnshire, Gloucester and Somerset, which for him, has gone full circle in his lifetime
James Dyson, both on Farming Weekly and This Natural World talking about his passion for applying technological research aimed at farming.
Barn owl. Image: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock.com.
Dyson Airblade V hand dryer. Image: RYO Alexandre/Shutterstock.com
The Bigger Picture With Bridget Sudworth
having been brought up as a country boy in N. Norfolk.
Something of a controversial and quite outspoken public figure in certain contexts, he nevertheless has a passion for growing things that reflects care and consideration towards green issues. His woodlands contain many owl boxes that have produced a healthy harvest of owlets while companion-planting flowers between rows of vegetables encourages insect life to aid natural pollination. He is very firm about farming subsidies being a waste paid for by our taxes when the UK imports subsidised food from abroad that doesn't conform to our high standards of production.
He thinks rewilding is a waste of land that should be used for producing food. He also thinks we produce the best food in the world. Martha Carney, while interviewing him, added a quick aside about the merit of brambles being an insect super-food which made me sit up rather quickly as I plan to eradicate them from the garden with snipping, cutting and - ouch! - pulling them out of flowerbeds. We love the fruits but hate the plants. Best gleaned from wild hedgerows. But whatever one may think about Dyson’s beliefs, there is certainly, ironically, food for thought.
In another world, that of the submarine, news recently has extolled the virtues of new planting grounds off the coast of Scotland from Kintyre to Shetland for seagrass which is a vital part of the marine ecosystem but which has suffered so much
from fishing activity, water pollution, harbour development and general interference by us lot, as usual. They form one of the most important elements of our coastal waters providing rich habitats for creatures and a food source for many, growing like any plant on land with flowering, seeding and developing huge root systems. Similar replanting of seagrass has been going on in Plymouth Sound for some time and the results are being carefully monitored but are
proving very positive. Apart from the obvious benefits, they absorb vast amounts of CO2, purify water and reduce the full volume of wave action - highly relevant when one reflects the amount of coastal erosion from which the UK suffers.
On the subject of the sea (and the season is coming for seaside frolics), some dog deaths were reported recently mostly deriving from Fistral Beach and local areas, possibly caused by ingestion of water hemlock, a
native plant of Cornwall, washed into the sea from streams and beached up by the waves. Dogs and beaches go together and offlead, unsupervised dogs could well have nibbled or chewed something they shouldn’t have touched (as well as dropping large calling cards that went unnoticed and are now being commendably picked up by volunteer beach-cleaners!) A really horrid follow-up to a joyful gambol along the sands of glorious Fistral.
But did you also know that laurel is hugely toxic for dogs? A close friend was grief stricken to lose his labrador to stick chewing, unseen while he was pruning his laurel hedge. There is so much laurel about; indeed, we have a hedge of the stuff which makes it essential to supervise Wilfred when he is outside, being a dog who chews - Luca, by comparison never had anything in his mouth except food. Chewing even the odd leaf can be fatal. Very sobering - so watch out, dog owners, while you are busy in the garden!
Hasten forth and get those seeds planted while metaphorically crossing fingers very tightly that this coming season will be more bountiful than last year!
Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall.
Seagrass Fish Sunlight Underwater Mediterranean Sea. Image: Damsea/Shutterstock.com.
VINTAGE Motorcycling
with Rod Hann
I START this month with a report on the recent Bristol Classic Bike Show held at the Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet. Part of this report will be an explanation of this month's photograph.
The picture shows my friend Colin Bentham from Somerset proudly showing off his 1942 Harley Davidson. It has a V twin engine of 750cc and it has been restored to a very high standard.
The WL series of bikes, of which this is the 'C' variant, formed the backbone of the bikes used in World War Two by the American troops. The Canadian troops followed suit.
The bikes are heavy and very robust in construction so ideal for the use of the military. They are not fast but very durable and well capable of high mileages today, so give excellent service to their lucky owners. I hope Colin enjoys his for many years to come.
Harley Davidson is one of America's oldest manufacturers of motorcycles. They are well known throughout the entire world and even the most fervent of anti-motorcyclists will know the name of Harley Davidson. There are Owners Clubs in just about every country on this planet and so the numbers of members within the Harley Davidson circle of clubs must outnumber any other club on earth.
This was of course just one of the many hundreds of machines on display at the show. The variance and standard of bikes was as high as ever, the traders seemed to be doing good business and perhaps the only downside of the show was perhaps the auction
MOTORING
of machines. The quality of machines being auctioned was as good as usual but when I watched the auction I got the impression that prices were subdued, as has been the trend in recent times. I am sure some lucky new owners went home with a bargain.
The crowd numbers at the show on the Saturday were excellent, due in part to the favourable weather forecast, but the poor forecast for the Sunday partially accounts for the reduced attendance on that day. Many local people were rewarded with trophies in the many different classes of machines. Our friends in the Wells Classic Motorcycle Club netted the prize for the best club stand, and very well deserved too judging by the many hours of hard work expended in creating the stand.
Morton's Media, who organise most of the shows in the UK, has just been sold to another publishing company so the future of these shows is a little unclear. However seeing the crowds in attendance should relate to a healthy profit for the organisers so I suspect the future of the shows will continue as usual. Watch this space for more information as the year progresses.
Returning from the glitzy world of the show brings us back to the pleasure of actually riding our old bikes and now April is here there will be an increase in the number of events to take part in.
(Saturday) will be the Bluebell Run and this goes from the Marsh and Ham Car Park in Blandford. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section have their Ken Blake Memorial Run from Ansty on the 13th. The next day they have their club afternoon at Silton. As usual ring 01935-872528 for more details.
For rides which are longer and more progressive in nature you could join either the Wells or Westlands Classic Motor Cycle Clubs. Both organise excellent rides and many other club events. Check out the respective web sites for further details.
The Somerset Section start their month with their club night at Cossington on the 3rd and this will be a guest speaker and the subject is 'Riding Classic Bikes on Modern Roads' which sounds rather interesting. Next on the 5th and 6th will be the Cheddar Weekend and then on the 12th to the 15th is their Twin Dragon Run which will take them up into glorious mid Wales. The Dorset Section have their Blandford Run on the 6th and this starts at Lo's Cafe at Pimperne. Club night at Pulham on the 9th will be a guest speaker, then on the 18th is the Hot Cross Bun Run from Okeford Fitzpaine. Lastly on the 26th
April will see me off on another jaunt to Stafford for the first of the Motorcycle Shows held there annually. I enjoy these shows as thousands of people attend and many old friends and acquaintances will be going, so we are assured of another social weekend. Always very tiring but nice to see the glorious machines on display and another auction to tempt me with parting from my money. By then Easter will have just passed and all (perhaps one if I am lucky) of the Easter eggs been consumed.
It is a long time to Christmas for another treat so I may as well knuckle down and get on with some serious riding.
Colin Bentham from Somerset with his 1942 Harley Davidson V twin 750cc.
Rainbow Wines
AFTER a pretty miserable winter, most of us will be looking forward to spring, and the prospect of the clocks going forward at the end of March, should herald longer warmer days. We need no reminding of the children’s nursery rhyme in which we’re told to look out for ‘April showers’; thus, ensuring we take our brollies with us when venturing outdoors. As long as it is not torrential rain, with accompanying blustery winds, I much prefer this weather to unbearably hot, humid summers.
Of course, after the showers, we can look forward to the wonder of a rainbow on the horizon. But what has this got to do with wine I hear you ask?
The United Kingdom's wine market offers a vibrant array of selections that cater to diverse palates and aesthetic preferences. Among these, the concept of a "rainbow" collection of wines has gained popularity, featuring assortments that are as visually striking as they are delightful to taste.
These ‘rainbow’ collections not only provide a spectrum of flavours but also add a visual appeal that can enhance any occasion. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or seeking a unique gift, these wines available in the UK offer both aesthetic charm and delightful taste experiences.
Accademia Prosecco
Rainbow Edition – Veneto, Italy
One notable example is the Accademia Prosecco Rainbow Edition, which presents a collection of six Prosecco DOC Brut bottles, each housed in a uniquely coloured glass bottle inspired by the vibrant artistic expressions of Venice. The set includes bottles in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The Prosecco itself offers hints of green apple, white peach, and citrus fruits, with delicate notes of acacia flowers on the finish. This fresh and light sparkling wine pairs well with fish starters, risotto, wild herbs, meat, pizza, cold cuts, and cheeses. £29.99 for six 20cl. bottles.
Blue: Blue Curaçao
Blue Curaçao is the ultimate showstopper when it comes to colourful liqueurs. With its
electric blue hue and citrusy flavour, it transforms any cocktail into a tropical masterpiece. Used in drinks like the Blue Lagoon and the Electric Lemonade, this liqueur brings a striking visual appeal to any bar setup. My favourite is a Ritz Fizz.
Torti Winery has introduced a Rainbow Collection of sparkling wines, each crafted using the Charmat Method for Martinotti Sparkling Rosé Wine from Pinot Nero and Chardonnay grapes. The collection features wines in various colours, including blue and purple, with powerful and persistent hues and sweet aromas. These wines are versatile companions for aperitifs, seafood, sushi, and sashimi. £133.49 for six 75cl. bottles
Gentle Folk's Rainbow Juice – Adelaide, Australia
For those interested in natural wines, Gentle Folk's Rainbow Juice offers a unique blend. This wine combines 22 different grape varieties, all basket-pressed and aged in barrels before blending.
a Negroni or an Americano. For those who prefer something sweeter, strawberry liqueurs like Bols Strawberry or Giffard Wild Strawberry bring a fruity vibrancy to cocktails.
Orange: Aperol & Orange Liqueurs
Aperol, the star of the everpopular Aperol Spritz, boasts a bright orange colour and a bittersweet taste with hints of rhubarb and citrus. For a stronger orange kick, triple sec liqueurs such as Cointreau and Grand Marnier add a zesty sweetness to margaritas and cosmopolitans.
Yellow: Limoncello & Honey Liqueurs
Limoncello, a classic Italian lemon liqueur, is famous for its bright yellow colour and refreshing citrusy taste. Best served chilled, it can be sipped neat or mixed into summery cocktails. Another golden-hued option is Drambuie, a whiskybased liqueur infused with honey, herbs, and spices, adding warmth and depth to drinks.
The result is a juicy mix of acidity from white grapes, complemented by plump raspberry and crunchy red fruit notes, with a dash of cinnamon spice. It's a fun and intriguing option for those seeking something different. £25.90.
Rainbow Liqueurs: Vibrant Spirits for Every Occasion
Liqueurs have long been a staple of mixology, bringing flavour, sweetness, and a splash of colour to cocktails. But for those who want to elevate their drinks with visual flair, rainbow-coloured liqueurs offer a stunning and vibrant selection. Whether you're crafting a layered cocktail, creating a dazzling drink display, or just looking for something unique, here’s a look at some of the most colourful liqueurs available.
Red: Campari & Strawberry Liqueurs
Starting with the boldest hue, red liqueurs are known for their striking appearance and rich flavours. Campari is a wellknown Italian bitter with a deep red colour and notes of orange peel and herbs, perfect for making
Green: Midori & Herbal Liqueurs
One of the most instantly recognisable liqueurs, Midori is a vibrant green melon-flavoured spirit from Japan, adding a sweet and fruity touch to cocktails like the Midori Sour. For a more herbal twist, Chartreuse (Green Chartreuse) is a legendary liqueur made by monks with over 130 botanicals, offering a complex and aromatic taste.
Indigo & Violet: Crème de Violette & Parfait Amour
For deep purples and soft violet shades, Crème de Violette is a floral liqueur that lends a delicate lavender hue to cocktails like the Aviation. Another purple-hued option, Parfait Amour, offers a complex mix of citrus, vanilla, and floral notes, making it a unique addition to creative cocktail recipes.
Layered Rainbow Cocktails
With a selection of these liqueurs, you can craft your own layered rainbow cocktails. By carefully pouring each liqueur in order of density, drinks like the Rainbow Paradise or the Pousse Café can showcase a stunning gradient of colours.
Hard Landscaping with Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design
BEFORE you undertake any garden design project you need to have a clear idea of what your budget is, as things can quickly get out of control. Hard landscaping and paving are almost always the priciest element of any project, so restrain your wish list and keep a close eye on your pocket.
But it is not all gloom and doom, a project doesn’t have to be done all at once, as long as you have the overall design in place and know how it will work together, you can add elements of the design as and when finance becomes available.
Hard landscaping covers anything from gravel and paving to decking, steps, ramps, walls, and fences so if you are unsure what the right choice is for you, then seek the advice of a professional.
For most people, laying a new patio will be the biggest hard landscaping project they undertake, so make sure you do your homework when choosing the paving and ensure you see it wet and dry as the colour will change and importantly, check the slip rating to help avoid any un-necessary tumbles.
Most large suppliers use project packs when supplying paving, which means the paving is delivered in four paving sizes,
so when laid the design looks interesting. And for a bespoke look, use a decorative border to your paving using setts or bricks of a contrasting colour and material for individuality.
Limestone is one of the most commonly used paving materials, available in a variety
of colours, is slightly more expensive than sandstone and less porous, making it less likely to stain from the elements, so it requires cleaning less often.
Sandstone has a good slip resistance rating and is more porous than limestone making it slightly more susceptible to staining so will require some cleaning maintenance, and for that reason not recommended for a north facing patio where green algae form quickly in the shade. Sandstone is excellent value for money and available in a selection of colours.
And last but not least,
Porcelain paving made from clay tiles printed with a high resolution image to replicate the look of stone or a decorative design. Porcelain can be slippery when wet so ensure you check the slip rating, but on the positive side it is easy to clean and will retain its contemporary appearance very well over time.
So, if you are considering a garden design project this summer why not take a look at my website www.sandhurst gardendesign.co.uk where you can find details of previous projects and client testimonials and how you can contact me.
Full ground preparation and laying service available
Make sure you do your homework when choosing the paving.
Haynes Motor Museum’s Autojumble 14th June
HAYNES Motor Museum is thrilled to announce the return of its popular annual Autojumble event, set to take place on Saturday 14th June, when they welcome enthusiasts from far and wide for this unmissable event.
Now in its third year, the Autojumble promises to be a haven for motoring aficionados
offering a unique opportunity to buy and sell automobilia. From sought-after car and motorcycle spares to rare vintage parts, magazines, manuals and clothing.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.haynes museum.org/autojumble.
•
• Over thirty years of dealing in
and Collectible
The Pub Pages
BEER & SKITTLES
‘IF music be the food of love, play on!’ thus quoth Duke Orsino in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night Not that I am a fan of himself at all; maybe because it was forced upon me during my five torturous years at a former grammar school. Nevertheless I am with him on the sentiment - and who doesn't like a decent live band in a pub? Strangely, I was discussing this very fact with one of our sons-in-law who has been in bands for some time. Yes, his bands have always been unpretentious pub-orientated bands and they have a great time, as do the customers. Whilst the Morning Advertiser (newspaper for the licenced trade) seems to be perpetually reporting the loss of music pubs, within the area the Baxter crew circulate, more and more pubs are booking bands, and long may this continue. Strange also, as that very same day the latest copy of the CAMRA magazine plopped onto the doormat. Uninspiringly named 'BEER', it contains articles from well-known names within the hospitality industry, and an article by Pete Brown on the pairing of beer with music was the first thing I turned to. It's not quite as mad as it sounds (sic) as, for example, surely we wouldn't be sat down sipping a strong stout or porter at a disco! There's a lot more to it, and whilst I don't intend to dwell too long on the subject, research also shows that louder, faster music makes restaurant goers depart quicker, whilst slower, quieter music will make the customers linger – and spend 20% more on drinks. So landlords, if business is a bit slow, go for the latter!
The 'tours of destruction' by Big Brewers has never ended, has it? Who can recall the Whitbread buying and closing of regional brewers back in the day. CAMRA even brought out T-shirts and posters featuring a grave-yard of headstones with the names of the
deceased breweries. We now kiss goodbye to Marston's and their 190 years of brewing as last year they sold out to Carlsberg. Marston's had already closed Ringwood, Wychwood and Jennings, and Banks are soon to join the list. They also closed the Brewing Heritage Centre in Burton on Trent; unforgivable in my view. Nothing stays the same in the brewing industry for long, as we know. The only good news part of the story is that a couple of experienced business people have purchased the Jennings brewery in Cockermouth, Cumbria, along with all the rights. Karl and Rebecca Canfield intend to start brewing as soon as possible, so perhaps Cocker Hoop, Cumberland Ale, Sneck Lifter et al will be brewed back at their original site soon, and we look forward to seeing the beers back on the supermarket shelves, but more importantly, on the bar as well.
Have you Googled 'Map of UK Skittles Leagues' yet? Go on –have a go, you'll be surprised I'm sure! What you probably won't be surprised at is the fact that Somerset has the highest number of leagues, comprising in excess of 1,000 teams! That sounds quite staggering, but we know for a fact that all enlightened landlords are always delighted in welcoming a guaranteed income every week –sometimes every day – as those pins fall. Wet sales may be one thing, but what about food, surely the biggest income for most pubs these days? Well, when those teams turn up and see quality food coming out of the kitchen it can be enough to spur those skittlers to return with their partners for that Sunday carvery or romantic meal, or in the case of our team, not only the occasional Sunday roast but two consecutive Christmas meals. We reckon that the visit for our first
league game eventually led to more than £1,000 being spent there – so far. (In case you're interested, it's the Helyar Arms in East Coker).
The aforementioned statistics on those league numbers come courtesy of 'Pub Games' Facebook group member Dave Quinn. Now Dave is what one might call 'enthusiastic' and promotes the 'beautiful game' at what is believed to be the only active skittle alley in Oxfordshire –possibly the only alley in Oxfordshire, in fact! Now, both of my readers will recall the reports on the ABM club in Wallingford where the game is played on several nights almost every week. Thanks to the internet and those that understand it, one can see 'Live' skittles as they transmit across the world on the internet - and even to remote parts of Dorset!
Be it on YouTube or Facebook, do tune in and check it out. Dave and his compatriots have encouraged new teams to join the league and whilst some players have yet to grasp the finer points and move forward to develop their own style, what they haven't got in skill they make up with enthusiasm, which is in itself very encouraging to see, particularly for the future of the game. It's certainly more entertaining than most of what's on the television, in my humble opinion! Further to this, I've had an email from Dave asking to discuss some ins and outs for their second 'Summer Tournament' on June 21st, which will include individual, as well as team games along with other pub-orientated games such as Bat and Trap, Shove Ha'penny, Aunt Sally, etc. Yes, think 'Pub Games Olympics'! (Personally, to that I would add 'Tug O'War' which was actually in the Summer Olympic games up until 1920!) Much of the detail/camping/AirBnB/Hotels /catering is already in the planning process so it's well on the way. Dave and Matt even headed off to London where they were able to purchase an extra skittle alley. Perhaps you fancy being part of this with your team? Pop me a line and I'll forward it to Dave. Meanwhile, don't forget to tune in to those live transmissions on your tablet, phone, computer or whatever, where Dave and the crew even provide a continuous commentary.
Move over Gary Linekerstardom awaits!
P. A. BAXTER
Have you ever seen skittles like this?
Rose and Crown manager Sara tries her luck in the recently re-installed 'Twister'.
The Pub Pages
BEER & SKITTLES
P. A. BAXTER
Speaking of that CAMRA magazine. I'm disappointed, but perhaps not a little surprised, that yet again there is no article on Pub Games. Hopefully you have all been able to locate the article by Laura Hadland in the Telegraph, Viz, 'The old-fashioned
games making a come-back' (we gave it a good plug last month, and you can catch up with this and other earlier Visitor magazines online). I really do hope that having now 'cracked' a mainstream publication, a prolific and professional writer such as Laura would be able to get a regular article in a CAMRA publication. How much more evidence do the Editors need to be convinced that games are such a big part of pub culture? Maybe I shall have to just carry on living in hope.
Many winter skittle leagues are coming to an end of another season. Summer leagues are on the horizon and hopefully many of you will be able to support your pub throughout the warmer months. I note that the Yeovil League has room for a couple more teams – if you're contemplating getting a team together then now is the time to give it a go! Whilst you're doing that, don't forget to join the 'Pub Games' group on Facebook where we do our best to promote our pubs and clubs through the medium of traditional games.
Us? Well we hope the weather will be good enough for outside games as well – and you may be able to guess which one is at the top of my list! Cheers!
The Muddled Man, West Chinnock - celebrating VE Day on Bank Holiday Monday 5th May
All are welcome this May Bank Holiday at The Muddled Man in West Chinnock as they are taking part in the VE Day National Street party on Monday 5th May. With BBQ and Morris Dancingit's sure to be a great day. The Muddled Man is a welcoming family pub that's been run by the same real people for nearly 25 years and is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Serving ‘proper pub food’ every day from soups to steaks, they are open Monday-Thursday 11am-2.30pm/7pm-11pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 12noon-10pm. Food served 122pm/7pm-9pm.
Solution to March Sudoku
ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ
On page 17
They Say
That festive cups were recently the order of the day at Yandles of Martock, due to a burst water main.
That in North Cadbury, the mystery of the phantom ringing door bell has at last been solved.
That about 18 hunt protesters could not stop thousands of people enjoying the Blackmore & Sparkford Vale Point to Point in Charlton Horethorne on 9th March.
That a larger order for sausage rolls has already been placed for the Trevose golfing trip March 2026.
That after completing a half marathon on a bitterly cold Sunday, nothing revives the spirit like a delicious pancake brunch, according to Lucy Putt of Chickerell.
That it’s obvious that Chiselborough’s young Marnie is set to be a savvy saverevery tuppence she has, she banks.
Vinny took part in Red Nose Day 2025.
1) 'The Bay City Rollers' 2) 'Fairground Attraction' 3) 'Strong' – Robbie Williams 4) 'Uptown Funk' 5) 'Iris' 6) 'Help' 7) 'Abracadabra' 8) 'Monkees' 9) Mick Jagger
10) Hammond Organ
Bonus Question: 1999
Worth a Guess: 48
That the entrants to the Grizzley Run recently held at Seaton/Beer certainly earned their complimentary Jaffa cakes! It made the Marathon look like a stroll in the park! That keep fit instructor Hannah of Crewkerne Aqua Centre has her very own busy workout ... due to her inquisitive pup, who is a knicker nicker!
That Mistral Ladies Fashions of Sherborne will be greatly missed but welcomed is Woolovers, who have filled the premises.
That a 'parade of horses' with their riders in historic dress (including Queen Elizabeth I, Vikings, Knights) will be making an appearance during the 3rd Wincanton History Day on Saturday 5th April.
Celebrating 25 years
Your hosts, Mick and Garry welcome you to
The MUDDLED MAN
Lower Street, West Chinnock
A charming country inn serving home cooked fayre lunchtime & evening
Nine Men's Morris - now being seen again in pubs.
A 13 ¾ inch 'landlord' pin. I need eight complimentary ones please!
Struggling with the rates
THE crippling effect of business rates on small businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors is widely reported and well known these days.
But a glance at the ‘In Passing’ column in the April 1995 Visitor reveals that this is not a recent 21st century concern. The columnist wrote that ‘it has been said to me in the past, mostly by bank managers and accountants who should know, that most high street shops are ‘marginal’ (meaning they are struggling to keep going). Certainly many landlords now are not raising rents when they are reviewed, preferring to have at least some money coming in rather than a load of empty properties and no money at all.’
He added that ‘it will probably come as no surprise, therefore, that business rates are going up by as much as 50 or 60%. I say no surprise because most people now are quite used to such matters being decided on the basis of blind stupidity without a thought for the consequences.’ His warning, as true today as it was 30 years ago, was to ‘remember that when your favourite shop is forced to close’.
Sherborne business afflictions
The April 1995 Visitor carried a feature on Sherborne, ‘undoubtedly one of the most attractive towns in this part of the country’, but revealed that ‘for the past few months Cheap Street has apparently been suffering from an attack of giant moles as work continues on replacing the failing Victorian sewer system’. The good news was that ‘the work is proceeding apace and should be finished in the next few weeks’.
The bad news was that ‘Sherborne traders have other reasons besides sewer maintenance for feeling afflicted at present: the town’s business rates for the current year are set to rise enormously, some by as much as 250%’. The report added that ‘this has caused a wave of outrage amongst members of the town’s business community and an action committee has been formed’.
Europe attracts British youngsters
In early 1995 MORI carried out a survey among seven to 14 year olds to ascertain their summer holiday preferences.
The findings, summarised in the April Visitor , showed that ‘British kids are well on the way to becoming Euro-friendly, with twice as many going to Europe as a decade ago’ and that ‘a staggering nine out of ten would prefer to go abroad this summer and a third of all kids are likely to be involved in the choice of the family’s holiday’. ABTA spokesman Alex Woodfall is quoted as saying that ‘more people are choosing an overseas holiday than ever before. For children, spending time in a foreign country, listening to and learning a different language, eating different food and experiencing a totally new culture makes travelling abroad quite an adventure.’ He pointed out that ‘Britain is now part of a much wider European community and children’s early appreciation of overseas culture cannot help but improve mutual understanding and co-operation’. How true is this in our post-Brexit era, I wonder.
Knocking them down in Leigh
A world record was broken at the Carpenters Arms at Leigh, near Sherborne. According to a report in the April 1995 Visitor ‘the local Hermitage and Hillfield Young Farmers Club and pub regulars took part in a 24-hour skittle marathon’ in which ‘94,321 skittles were knocked down,
compared with the previous world record of 82,767’. The event raised in the region of £2,500 in aid of the neurological and paediatric departments at Southampton Hospital.
An Easter treat Easter comes quite late in April this year. So it did in 1995, when Easter Sunday fell on 16th April. And numerous pubs and restaurants took the opportunity to advertise their special Easter Sunday lunches in the April Visitor. Several did not disclose the content or price of their festive fare while others provided information about what was included in their price. Most were offering three courses, the cheapest being £5.50 at Skippers
in Sherborne and £5.75 at the Mildmay Arms in Queen Camel. For an additional 75p the Walnut Tree in Mere was including coffee. The Castle Tandoori in Castle Cary advertised a four-course meal for £7.50 with ‘a full choice of menus, not including king prawn’, and the Red House Inn near Yeovil was promising ‘a delicious three-course carvery, a glass of wine and an Easter Egg for the children’, all for £8.50. The costliest option appeared to be the Bush Restaurant in the White Lion at Bourton where you could have a three-course lunch ‘with choices’ for £11.95. These days is Easter Sunday an occasion for a special Sunday lunch? I doubt it. Roger Richards.
Cl ass ified 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.
Storage
STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles. Lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692
COLLECTIONS CDS and Vinyl LPs - must be excellent condition, most genres considered. Tel: 01458 834102/ 07704229979 or email: tonyartony @aol.com
OLD railway relics e.g. signs,lamps, posters, photos/negatives etc. and model railway rolling stock. Call DG on 07766 635989
Damian Hoddinott PLUMBING SERVICES
01963 441232 07971 676111
Prize Crossword No. 461 Set by Frank Butler
SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO:
The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Tuesday 22nd April.
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.
Clues Across:
1. Elevated drink at evening meal [4, 3]
5. Cue ‘arch’ for writer [7]
9. Male nit leads to disease [7]
10. Monarchy on composer’s right [7]
11. Couldn’t flog it, so had deer [4, 5]
12. Warrior Mum’s top class! [5]
13. Fruit appointments [5]
15. Damaged lap paling is awful [9]
17. Running off with ruins of one temple [9]
19. Ayer’s Rock for ages! [5]
22. Some such in a big country [5]
23. Cool Paris in Athens? [9]
25. A pace with legs on each side [7]
26. The acre becomes a different unit: Confused? [7]
27. Most neat: Loses life in avian embrace [7]
28. Tiny second and seconds in sixties [7]
Clues Down:
1. Oh, dread chaos put in store [7]
2. Brave six-footer following bile [7]
3. Parts of a saw with means of grinding [5]
4. Change Etna by turns [9]
5. Bend and mend about five [5]
6. Terribly balmy lays [9]
7. Firm deficit in beginning with giants [7]
8. Rig hymn, sing and ring perhaps? [7]
14. Stir paste, left or right, clear the way! [4, 5]
16. Safe counterfeit ribbon [9]
17. Can’t hen cast a spell? [7]
18. One race into the broken dome got left out [7]
20. First and latest minimum [2, 5]
21. Sets sir with nuns! [7]
23. Alter warning [5]
24. Nut pot about the City [5]
Solution to Crossword 460
Winner of the March Crossword is Gus Unger-Hamilton of Leigh on Mendip who chose to spend the £15 voucher at High Street Records, Wincanton.
