Somerset Council’s announcement that the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil will remain closed until 2027 has dismayed and disappointed the many who had hoped it would re-open in time for 2026’s popular Octagon Pantomime. It closed in April 2023 when work was about to start on ambitious plans to improve its backstage facilities, enlarge the auditorium and provide more rooms for community arts use. But the £30 million scheme stalled in the face of unanticipated high inflation and rising construction costs at a time when the council faced a huge budget deficit.
Fortunately, back in 2015 South Somerset District Council agreed to take over Westland’s sports and social club which the company had closed at the end of September. It was a brave decision involving a lot of public money – remember that Westland spent a large amount each year to keep it up and running – but it was by far the largest and best-equipped entertainment and sports venue for many, many miles around and had been much used by local clubs, societies and event promoters for all manner of meetings, concerts, competitions and celebrations.
The district council did a superb £4 million job in transforming it into the classy Westlands Entertainment Venue for concerts, films, parties, meetings and conferences, and it has been able to accommodate some of the productions that would normally have featured at the Octagon, including the legendary pantomime. But Westlands can only complement the Octagon, not replace it.
Many people think that the performing arts, in all their glorious diversity, have an essential role to play in a civilised society. Others would argue that ‘theatre’ is not essential and that market forces, not subsidy, should determine its provision. But most appear to agree that money should be given to help the theatre provide what market forces do not. The aim is not to make and distribute a cash profit but to enhance the cultural life of the local
community. To its credit Somerset Council has agreed a less ambitious revamp of the Octagon, costing around £15 million, and details of what this will include – and the timescale for the work – will be known later this year.
The Octagon has consumed a lot of public money over the years and requires an annual subsidy to keep it going. But Visitorland is home to a lot of latent talent in the performing arts, especially among young people. Budding amateur actors, dancers, singers, musicians, songwriters and raconteurs all need places where they have the opportunity to hone their skills in front of an audience and to learn from watching accomplished professionals perform, so the re-opening of the theatre cannot come too soon. Audience figures have shown that the Octagon is undeniably popular, catering not only for much of South Somerset‘s population but also for residents of parts of neighbouring Dorset and Wiltshire, so the latest investment will be money well spent.
Advertising Deadlines
June Issue
Deadline: 19th May
Published: 29th May
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.
Mark Steel and Rob Newman join the line-up for Somerset’s weekend-long comedy festival
WELLS Comedy Festival announce that the BAFTA nominated and multi awardwinning Mark Steel will return to the festival in May plus the incredible Rob Newman who brings his brand new tour show Where The Wild Things Were
They join Simon Amstell, Sara Pascoe, Rosie Jones, Amy Gledhill, Spencer Jones, Hal
Cruttenden, Glenn Moore, Rhys James, Jessica Fostekew, Nick Helm, Chloe Petts, Katie Norris, Joe Kent-Walters, Chris Cantrill, Thanyia Moore, Abby Wambaugh, Mat Ewins, Lucy Pearman, Michael Akadiri, Peter Rethinasamy, Marjolein Robertson and more!
Shows are already selling out with extra shows added due to popular demand for Simon Amstell, Sara Pascoe and Rhys James.
You can catch a selection of festival favourites at the Friday and Saturday Night Gala shows.
Tickets from £10 and tickets for all shows are on sale at www.wellscomfest.com. Wells Comedy Festival is produced by Plosive. Wells Comedy Festival, takes place Fri 23 – Sun 25 May 2025.
Sara Pascoe will perform at Wells Comedey Festival 2025.
Mark Steel.
Amy Gledhill. Image: Matt Crockett.
Mentioned in Dispatches
New destination taproom opens in the heart of Somerset’s ciderland
A new destination taproom in the heart of ciderland is now open, offering locals and visitors the chance to enjoy a tipple (or a cuppa and cake) overlooking the orchards in the stunning Somerset countryside.
Set within 50 metres of where the apples are picked, pressed and fermented, the new Harry’s
Cider Shop and Taproom in Long Sutton, near Langport, has a welcoming, rustic vibe, with reclaimed wood tables and large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
For those who wish to learn more about craft cider, their knowledgeable staff are on hand to share the stories and processes behind each cider or to help visitors find their perfect pint.
Coinciding with the start of this year’s British Cider Week, Harry’s Cider marked the official opening of the taproom with a celebratory Pizza and Cider Night on Friday 25th April, complete with live music and wood fired pizzas.
Twenty years on from when Harry Fry made his first cider using left-over apples grown on
the family farm, this latest venture aims to propel Harry’s Cider to further growth.
The plan is for the new premises to create three full-time equivalent jobs and increase
volume sales by 25% over the next three years.
The development has been supported by grants from the Farming Transformation Fund and the Somerset Rural England Prosperity Fund . It includes a new farm office and benefits from high-speed broadband and renewable technology.
Electric vehicle charging points are available for visitors to use during opening hours, powered by an array of roof-mounted solar panels that also help to power the heating and lighting within the new building. On a sunny day, the solar panels should generate sufficient power to export any surplus to the grid.
Over the coming months, a programme of relaxed social events is planned at the taproom, featuring collaborations with local food trucks and musicians at their monthly Pizza and Cider Nights and regular Cider Saturday events. On non-event days, the Harry’s Cider Shop and Taproom is open throughout the summer from 10am until 5pm, Monday to Thursday; 10am until 7pm on Fridays; and 10am until 5pm on Saturdays.
Cidermaker Toby Fry says: “This is a fantastic space where people can come and relax, take in the views, have a drink and a snack, and purchase our ciders to enjoy at home too. Overlooking the orchard, it’ll be perfect during blossom time and into later summer when you’ll be able to sit out and actually watch harvesting of the apples while sipping our award-winning cider.
“We’re supporting other local producers too so you’ll find drinks on tap from Cheddar Ales and Otter Brewery, coffee from a local roaster in Shepton Mallet, and a range of other tasty products too,
The Harry's Cider team in the new taproom.
Dispatches
each sourced wherever possible from within 40 miles.”
Explaining where the idea stemmed from to create a designated taproom and shop, he says: “During the Covid pandemic, when the hospitality venues were forced to close, we started opening for farm gate sales to retail customers six days a week instead of just one. This was successful so we’ve continued to do that ever since, selling cider directly and hosting more cider tours. Demand has continued to increase so now the new taproom and shop will allow us to welcome more people to the farm, all year round, as well as providing stability for the business and further opportunities for growth.”
Harry’s Cider is produced by Harry and his son Toby on their family farm in Long Sutton, South Somerset. Regular cider tours and tastings are held throughout the year at the farm, giving locals and tourists an opportunity to enjoy an orchard
walk, learn about the cidermaking process and sample some of their award-winning ciders.
More information about their events and cider tours can be found on the Harry’s Cider website https://harryscider company.com.
Ilminster Literary Festival 2025 is on the way
Bringing speakers from across literature, politics and the wider arts to entertain, inform and inspire! Established 2016, it’s the town’s annual cultural highlight.
Appearing this year: Pru Leith’s nephew (yes really) – Full name Sam Leith, Literary Editor of The Spectator Magazine. Sam will be talking about his book The Haunted Wood: A History of childhood reading, revealing its magic through the ages.
Prof Kate Williams, Royal expert and well known TV historian on her latest book The Royal Palaces : Secrets and Scandals
Damien Boyd, successful author of detective fiction, on Deceived by the Light, his latest thriller set in South Somerset where a serial killer is cruising the A303.
Sir Anthony Seldon answering the question What’s Gone Wrong with Politics?
Wendy Joseph, one of only 3 female judges to preside at the Old Bailey, questioning if the law is always fairly applied. A stand out festival speaker.
PLUS ... A truly exceptional opportunity to hear a joint poetry reading by 2 Faber Poets, both at the very top of their gameChristopher Reid and Jamie McKendrick. Mentioned
And that’s just 6 of the 25 events on offer between May 29 and June 5. There really is something to suit everyone. Find out more and book your tickets, nearly all of them only £8, at www.ilminsterliterary festival.org.
Wendy
Kate Williams.
Anthony Seldon.
Joseph KC.
Damien Boyd.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Three Orphaned Badger Cubs Rescued in Somerset Begin Touching Journey to Recovery
Three orphaned badger cubs are now safe and receiving expert care at Secret World Wildlife Rescue, after being found alone and vulnerable by a roadside in South Petherton, Somerset on Monday 7th April. The cubs, estimated to be just 8–9 weeks old, were spotted by a concerned driver who noticed them wandering without their mother.
Tragically, a deceased lactating sow, presumed to be their mother, was discovered further along the road, confirming the cubs had been left to fend for themselves.
One of Secret World’s experienced volunteers swiftly responded to the call, transporting the cubs to the charity’s treatment centre. On arrival, the young badgers were found to be severely underweight, anaemic, and infested with parasites, indicating they had been alone for several days.
The wildlife care team acted quickly, administering urgent first aid, removing parasites, and performing thorough health checks.
Due to their fragile condition, staff wore full PPE to avoid transmitting any human-borne diseases to the vulnerable cubs.
“The cubs were absolutely crawling with fleas. I’ve never seen that many on a single animal before,” said Katie Gibbs, Wildlife Care Supervisor. “They were weak, frightened, and desperately in need of help. It's a miracle they survived as long as they did on their own.”
The sibling trio, two females and one male, have since been named Dr. Pepper, Pepsi, and Lilt. Dr. Pepper, the only male, has already shown a protective streak. Footage from the rescue shows him bravely returning to help his smallest sibling, a touching reminder of the close social bonds badgers share.
Now in the care of Secret World’s dedicated wildlife team, the cubs are being responsibly bottle-fed Babydog milk, a carefully chosen formula to meet their nutritional needs. In the wild, cubs of this age would still be nursing, so three feeds a day are essential to help them gain weight and strength.
Lilt, the smallest of the three, has required extra attention. Thanks to the care and patience of the team, she’s now beginning to take her feeds more confidently. Feeding is carried out using tabards infused with the cubs’ own clan scent, which helps reduce stress and promotes a sense of security.
“It’s a delicate balance,” added Katie Gibbs. “We want to build enough trust for feeding, but without allowing them to become tame. Our ultimate goal is to return them to the wild, where they belong.”
Follow Dr. Pepper, Pepsi, and Lilt’s recovery journey on Secret Dr Pepper feeding.
World Wildlife Rescue’s social media channels for updates, photos, and behind-the-scenes rescue, rehabilitation and release stories. Their journey highlights both the vulnerability of British wildlife and the vital role that Secret World Wildlife Rescue plays in helping local wildlife.
Secret World Wildlife Rescue have just launched their ‘Spring into Action’ Appeal, seeking to raise £20,000 towards Staff and Veterinary Costs for 2025.
Over the past two years, Secret World Wildlife Rescue has experienced significant growth, driven by their commitment to providing the highest standard of care for injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife. Since 2023, Secret World’s core wildlife care staffing costs have increased by 27%, a rise of £64,500.
This rise reflects their dedication to ensuring the availability of trained and experienced Vet & Wildlife Care
personnel who can provide expert care to the thousands of animals they admit every year.
For more information about
Secret World Wildlife Rescue or to support their appeal, please visit the website: https:// www.secretworld.org. Lilt.
Pepsi.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Wylye Valley Art Trail
Saturday 3 – Sunday 11 May
Wylye Valley Art Trail is taking place again this spring, from Saturday 3 – Sunday 11 May, the first of this year’s open studios festivals.
The award- winning Wylye Valley Art Trail is an inspiring and eclectic festival of visual art and craft set in 82 venues across southwest Wiltshire: open studios and work-places, galleries, art group exhibitions, student groups, virtual exhibitions and other
fascinating events including ‘hands on’ activities, demonstrations, workshops and talks. This year there are over 250 exhibitors, ranging from award-winning artists with international reputations, to those just starting out on their creative journeys. This is a unique opportunity to view a wide range of artistic skills, from
painting to print-making, furniture making to photography and sculpture to ceramics as well as contemporary art forms such as digital art, installation, video and art using recycled materials.
The Wylye Valley Art Trail team is hugely proud that, in early 2022, Her Majesty The Queen approved the QAVS National Assessment Committee’s recommendation that the volunteers of The Wylye Valley Art Trail should receive the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS). This was one of the final awards made by Elizabeth II before her death in September 2022.
Nick Andrew, the founder and coordinator of the Wylye Valley Art Trail states:
“This year marks a quarter of a century since the Wylye Valley
Art Trail was conceived in 2000 as a framework for visual artists and makers living and working in this area to bring their work to a local and wider audience. After much research, funding applications, endless meetings and planning, our small organising team brought the first Wylye Valley Art Trail into being in May-June 2001.
From the start we were strong in our desire for an event which was all-inclusive, non-selective, entirely run by volunteers and embracing the work of long established artists and makers, as well as those just starting out on their creative journeys. I’m so pleased that in this 25th year that original ethos still holds firm.”
Colourful and eye catching Wylye Valley Art Trail guides are available at Tourist Information Centres, Arts Centres, Libraries and many other places.
The art trail website address is: www.wvat.co.uk. The Wylye Valley Art Trail App is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Rachel Eardley. Decorating ceramics. Venue 23.
Rose Eva. Stonecarving. Venue 37.
Nick Andrew. Drawing in the Avon near Bodenham. Venue 17.
Robert Baker. Woodwork. Venue 54.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Martock and District u3a
The Martock u3a holds a monthly meeting on the second Wednesday of the month, 2.15pm for a 2.30pm start, in Martock Parish Hall. The other main activity of the u3a is the 30 interest groups. A full list is available on the website. The meeting on 14 May includes Richard Salter with A Potted History of Quakers
To join or for more details, contact Alison, by email martocku3amembership@gmail .com or by phone 07555 033027.
Sturminster Newton’s Literary Festival Showcases Dorset and Wessex Writing
Sturminster Newton Literary Festival’s 2025 programme has impressive headline acts including Damien Lewis, Tracy Chevalier, and Natasha Solomons. Sturlitfest is in its sixth year with over 20 activities from walks to talks and a writing competition. This year the festival
runs from 6th-15th June.
The festival forms part of a book launch by Jonathan and Christine Hainsworth from Adelaide, Australia. The couple researched the Shakespeare Ladies Club which was led by Susanna Ashley-Cooper, 4th Countess of Shaftesbury from Wimborne St Giles and who campaigned in the 1740s to get Shakespeare’s plays restored to their original uncut format.
The programme also features award winning crime writers Rachel McLean and Tess Burnett with Westcountry book plots. Damien Lewis will outline courageous SAS escapes during World War Two. Pen Farthing and Mark Blackburn share experiences of projects that expanded way beyond their expectations. The stained glass created by Sturminster Newton artist Mary Lowndes will be integrated with a talk on Venetian glassmakers with Tracy Chevalier. Two talks feature Thomas Hardy, exploring grief and also a crime based sequel. Finally, a cultural event shares the experiences of residents from Central Europe.
Tickets and the programme are available at www.sturlitfest.com and from 1855 Sturminster Newton.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Favourites old and new at the Royal Bath & West Show
The Royal Bath & West Show returns on 29th-31st May with plenty of old favourites and new attractions.
The Main Ring hosts the Pony Club Games, Show Jumping, Vintage Vehicle Parade, Scurry
and Heavy Horses; whilst this years’ main attraction is the everpopular Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show
The Great British Kitchen welcomes back cocktail maker Andy Clarke and the ‘Fuss Free Foodie’ Lisa Cadd, joined this year by Comedian and Chef George Egg, James Strawbridge, and Big Nath’s BBQ. Inspired visitors can then head to the Regional Food & Drink Pavilion where they can buy produce from local suppliers such as Barbers, Wyke, Thatchers and Brothers
The youngest members of the family can learn whilst they enjoy the show, with Discover the Future inside the Showering Building and Lakeside Farm housing all things agricultural, including Poultry and Small Animals.
Our four-legged friends are not forgotten, with the Bark & West returning after its highly successful debut in 2024. Pawsability and the Have a Go ring return, alongside Great British Dogs - plenty to get those tails wagging!
Live music is an important part of the Bath & West Show – who doesn’t love music in the sunshine? This years’ acts in the Pilton Tent (Sponsored by Glastonbury Festival) include
The Old Time Sailors, The Rivertones and Funky Monkey Bubble Club; whilst Somerset Morris, the Jelly Roll Jazz Band and Chloe Marie Aston (The Piano Bike Girl) will be providing entertainment on the Main Lawn and roaming around the Showground.
A new and exciting development for 2025 is the Bath & West Show App. With full timetable information and a feature to create your own lineup of favourite attractions, alongside the Family Trail and other interactive features for families, the App will help visitors to make the most of their day. It will be
released in April, so keep an eye on the Bath & West Show website and social media channels to be amongst the first to download it.
Advanced rate tickets are available until 28th May, for prices and to book yours visit www.bathandwest.com.
Free prostate cancer testing event Saturday 10th May, 10am-4pm Croscombe Vilage Hall, BA5 3RJ
Every year in the UK 40,000 men are diagnosed with Prostate Cancer and around 10,000 die from the disease. Early diagnosis can be crucial to successful treatment.
Paul Aston Photography.
Paul Aston Photography.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Appointments take 10-15 minutes and MUST be booked online in advance. It will NOT be possible to be tested on the day without a prior appointment. All tests are confidential and are carried out by qualified medical practitioners.
To book your appointment at a time to suit you:-
1 Visit https://mypsatests .org.uk/events
2. Register yourself using your email address.
3. Click 'Find an event' - search for SPSA.
4. Select the event, scroll down, choose a convenient time slot and book it.
For any questions regarding the tests please contact Peter Hopwood by telephone 01458 441669 or email peterhopwood 46@gmail.com.
Donations at SPSA for future testing events will be gratefully received either at the event or via spsa.uk where you can donate online.
Join Wells GAC & Wells Scout to Commemorate VE Day Come along and Commemorate VE Day with the very popular Wells Good Afternoon Choir on Sunday May 18 at St Thomas’ Church, Wells, 3.00pm (doors open 2.45pm) where they will be
singing together with the 5th/7th Wells Scout Group.
The Wells Good Afternoon Choir is led by Ruth Jenkins and they are busy preparing their programme for the concert which will support fundraising for the 5th/7th Wells Scout Group hut.
The Good Afternoon Choirs
were started by Bath-based Grenville Jones 16 years ago and there are now 35 across the South West of England, South Wales and London, with over 1,600 members ‘Singing in the Afternoon’.
There are no auditions to join, your first rehearsal is free, and
Mentioned in Dispatches
members of our Wells Good Afternoon Choir come from in and around the area. Wells meet every Tuesday afternoon from 2pm-4pm. Everyone is welcome to come along to meet Ruth and the members of the choir where the emphasis is on having fun.
The 5th/7th Wells Scout Group will be joining Wells Good Afternoon Choir to Commemorate VE Day and there will be lots of opportunities for audience
participation on the afternoon.
The afternoon is free admission, so why not come along for a fun singalong and to meet your local community Good Afternoon Choir.
Grenville said; “It is going to be a great afternoon of music and we are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Wells Scout Group, to St Thomas’ Church in Wells.”
The 5th/7th Wells Scout Group.
Bruton Choral Society Summer Concert
On Sunday 11 May at 7.30pm Bruton Choral Society will be performing their last concert of the choral year in the Queen Elizabeth Music School at King’s. A very sociable event with drinks being served in the interval – and they are optimistic as ever that this will be able to be al fresco. Barbara Jenkinson has chosen some really lovely music for this Summer Concert: Music for a May Evening. There will be some perennial favourites including Tallis ‘If ye love me’, Bruckner ‘Locus Iste’, ‘Linden Lea’ by Vaughan Williams and a
beautiful piece by Canadian choral composer Eleanor Daley. There will also be French and Italian pieces and some barbershop in the second half.
Soloists will be Angela Ashworth (soprano), Geoff Allan (tenor) and Malcolm Parr (baritone), Clare Sydenham and Ashley Marshfield will be playing some piano duets, and there will also be readings on a summery theme.
Tickets £10, £12 on the day, children free, to include a glass of wine, from Bruton Convenience Store, 01749 813161 or www.brutonchoralsociety .org.uk.
Wells GAC.
May Notice Board
CASTLE CARY
Sunday 8th June at All Saints' Church Castle Cary, 3.30 for 4 pm - not to be missed concert by the Cesarz Tabor duo, playing their arrangements of classical music for violin and guitar. Tickets £12 from Bailey Hill
Spring dating with Alison at Just Somerset Introductions
Spring has really blossomed in the last few weeks with some lovely sunny weather. May is a great time to get out and about and it doesn’t have to break the bank! Search out your local park, or a nearby wood for the bluebells and a good walk.
Tulips have been out for a while in all their glory and rhododendrons which were magnificent last year! It’s a good way to meet new people and make new friends.
Visit some open gardens, often these are held for charity so just a small charge. Find a good local market or farmers market where you can sample local foods and
Bookshop, the Market House and via the church website, £15 on the door. Refreshments.
TINTINHULL
Tintinhull Village Open Gardens, 10 gardens, entry £8. 14-15 June 12-5pm. Refreshments and Plants. Tintinhull BA228PY
ADVERTISE your June event here for only £5 for 20 words, 30p per extra word. Please email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk or telephone: 01963 351256 by 19th May.
produce. There are also several farm shops with café’s and other shops for a reasonable coffee and cake meet. Flea Markets or Antique Fairs are good too for a small entry fee.
We do these type of outings in the JIG group - if you looking to meet someone special - maybe a new relationship? NT visits, coffee meets, nature reserves, lunches out, cinema trips, theatre, music concerts, to name a few.
We cover all ages and younger members are welcome. Please see our website for more information on how we work and testimonials. Have a look and give me a call what are you waiting for? What’s stopping you?
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
So, you think you know your Pop music, do you ?
By John Osborne
Answers can be found on page 31
1) Who released 'Don't Stop Me Now' in January 1979?
2) The late Errol Brown fronted which band?
3) 'Life of Riley' a 1992 hit by whom?
4) Name the band behind 'Free as a Bird' and 'Real Love' (Clue:1996)
5) 'Could You Be Loved' sang which reggae legend back in 1980?
6) Who said 'Oops...!, I did it again' Twenty five years ago in May 2000?
7) Where did Elvis Costello NOT want to go to in 1978?
8) In late 1995 O.M.C. declared 'How... ' what?
9) Edie Brickell and the … who?
10) With what instrument do we most associate with Ian Anderson?
Bonus Question: Which country did O.M.C. come from?
Worth A Guess:
It has been estimated that that the Rolling Stones have sold around how many albums in the United Kingdom?
Great Quotes in Music (139) "Silence is the fabric upon which the notes are woven."
- Lawrence Duncan
Answers to April Sudoku on page 31.
Enchanted House Beds craftsman day and sale event
Friday 23rd May 10am-5pm
FOR over a century Enchanted House Beds have been at the heart of the local community in Sampford Courtnay, nestled in the foothills of Dartmoor National park where the family of bed makers have been perfecting their craft.
A true family business utilising locally sourced materials from the family farm including some of the most breathable and natural premium lambswool, quality materials used to create such beautiful beds and mattresses now sought after the length and breadth of the UK.
This year The Bed Specialist is celebrating their 60th Anniversary as a family business in Yeovil. As a local independent bed and mattress specialist, much of what they offer is sourced from some of the best bed and mattress manufacturers in the UK, and they are thrilled to showcase fantastic local brand Enchanted House throughout their collection.
On Friday 23rd May you can experience how these exceptional quality beds are made first hand at The Bed Specialist showrooms in Yeovil between 10am and 5pm. There will be talks and demonstrations by a Enchanted House craftsman, many of the beds to try and purchase on the day at further reduced prices and free luxury bedding gifts worth up to £350 with every new
purchase – all of this only available on the special craftsman day they are hosting on Friday 23rd May. Join them for a cup of tea, chat with their bed experts, watch live mattress upholstery demos and secure a fantastic new bed or mattress deal – they can’t wait to greet you as they continue to celebrate their 60th Anniversary milestone.
Don’t’ forget, they offer free nationwide delivery and you can enjoy free old bed recycling on the day too worth £75. Now is the time to invest in your sleep and enjoy some impressive savings on a new bed and mattress from The Bed Specialist at 106 Huish, Yeovil BA20 1AQ. Shop online or call them on 01935 423 596.
Hooper’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
Business Focus
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.
At Focalflames Fireplaces, they’ve always stuck to the belief that staying small and personal and specialising in their field means a much more professional and responsive service to their customers! And with over 20 years’ experience in the industry they pride themselves on providing high quality, great value services, with FREE home consultations, and even their very own showroom.
With expert advice to help you make the right choice at a budget you are happy with, they will not be beaten on price!
So why don't you give them a call or TEXT today for a free of charge no obligation quote on 07931 918947.
Ward & Sibley, The Jewellers of Yeovil
When you visit a jewellers shop, it is more often than not for a special occasion.
At Ward & Sibley, the friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure that you receive a personal service whether you are buying a small thank you gift - or an elegant diamond ring.
Being an independent retailer they offer a very individual choice of jewellery, there is something to suit all tastes and budgets from
contemporary costume jewellery through to bespoke pieces. Whilst diamonds are always a firm favourite as are gemstones, at Ward & Sibley you will find a comprehensive range of precious and semi-precious stones.
If you are seeking a particular stone please ask. A free gift wrap service is available to ensure your gift looks extra special.
If you have any questions before visiting them in store you can give them a call on 01935 474065.
& Sibley - the jewellers
Yeovil.
A vast selection of hats available to hire at Hooper’s Hat Hire, Yeovil.
Family Health with
Jenna Evans
LAST month we had a look at the skin and general irritations/ rashes. This month we'll tackle the chronic conditions - eczema and psoriasis.
There are several forms of eczema, from the classic atopic eczema (often associated with familial tendencies to the atopic triad – eczema, asthma, hayfever) and pompholyx eczema to contact dermatitis. Psoriasis is considered to be an autoimmune condition, although it is still fairly poorly understood. Though with different conditions, from a holistic perceptive, many things can help both. Follow the usual NHS basic advice on keeping areas clean, scratching minimally, maintaining temperature and moisture etc. Certain medications may be recommended and I would suggest you do a bit of digging and see how some of those play out in the long term. For instance, I have seen many people over the years who have been unhappy with the effects of drugs, especially topical steroids.
Knowing your triggers will serve you well. They may be food based, environmental or of course the ever giving trigger – stress! Talk to your GP about food allergy testing but bear in mind you may be sensitive rather than fully allergic to various foods/substances. You can have more comprehensive testing privately or opt for a food intolerance with a therapist (many methods exist) and we have a lady who regularly comes to Ceres – so do ask instore if you're interested.
Keeping a food/mood diary is the cheap option. You will need to be your own detective! Following a food elimination plan is also useful and allows the body a break from all the common culprits. Just do this sensibly –it is all too easy to either crash out at the first food craving, or conversely end up on a super restricted diet. Try mindfulness and meditation practises to help manage stress. Modalities such as EFT ('tapping') can also be used and there are very helpful
and psoriasis are common skin problems. Image: Katarzyna Hurova/Shutterstock.com.
videos on the likes of YouTube showing you exactly how to implement this technique.
There are several important nutrients that may help including magnesium, zinc and Vitamin D. For psoriasis, the mushroom Chaga has a small amount of research and some excellent feedback to me backing that up - well worth a try.
Herbs that support the elimination pathways of the body (nettle, dandelion, burdock), support skin (red clover, gotu kola) soothe inflammation (chamomile, chickweed) can all be helpful. It would be remiss not to mention probiotics. There's a fair amount of research now backing up claims that these good bacteria, and their food (prebiotics), can make a big difference. This is especially true for children – we know they can prevent the onset of allergies and autoimmunity. There are supplements that combine many of these remedies as well as lovely tea blends of the herbs.
Topically there are oodles (technical term!) of remedies to try. Chickweed cream is a herbal classic; neem can be great for the itch; shea butter is one of my favourite emollients (but it is very hard, so best blended with another oil such as coconut). We have a few brands created by people who were treating their own skin issues, including one with licorice that is designed to be akin to using a steroid cream – without the harms. I have some
reports from people using CBD cream to great effect too.
Like most things there can be trial and error until you find what suits you – and remember
to always patch test! Do pop into Ceres for more information. We love to hear your healing tales and feedback. Merry May everyone!
Eczema
A Soldier, A Loaf, and the Will to Survive
THE medals of Walter F. Knight tell a story of duty, endurance, and sacrifice. The War Medal and Victory Medal mark his service in the Great War, while the Territorial Force War Medal, awarded only to those who had enlisted before 1914, recognises his early commitment. But alongside these symbols of honour lies something far more personal: a hardened corner of prisoner-ofwar bread, a stark reminder of struggle beyond the battlefield.
Amidst the cold, barbed-wire confines of a German prisonerof-war camp, food was scarce, hunger was constant, and hope was a lifeline. For Sapper Walter F. Knight, captured in June 1918, every meal was a battle of its own. A hardened piece of bread— coarse, dry, barely edible. Each bite was a fight against hunger. And yet, when he returned home in 1919, he kept a piece of it. A reminder of hardship, a token of resilience, a testament to survival. That small, unassuming fragment carries a soldier’s story. One of endurance, perseverance, and the unbreakable human spirit.
More than a century later, that piece of bread remains. A link to the past, a symbol of resilience,
and a soldier’s quiet triumph over suffering.
Now, this slice of history, long kept in the shadows of time, finds its way to the light once more.
The story of Walter F. Knight’s survival—etched into the very crumbs of this hardened bread— will be up for auction at
Lawrences Auctioneers in Crewkerne. On May 14th and 15th, a new chapter begins, as the bread, along with his medals, will be offered to those who understand the weight of history and the quiet sacrifices of war. A century of silence is about to speak once again.
INSTANT CASH FOR YOUR OLD TOYS!
PASTIMES
Sherborne (near the Abbey)
• Over thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys
• Established business paying BEST prices for old toys in any condition
Driftwood Designs launches new Moon Cycles design mug FANS of Driftwood Designs are eagerly awaiting the launch of the new Moon Cycles mug.
Artist Lizzie Spike’s fascination with the moon is evident in many of her designs, with a stunning moon often an integral part of the image, whether the scene is depicting comfy cottages, woodland animals or seaside landscapes.
And her moon designs fly off the shelves. Indeed, the annual full moons calendar sold out in record time this year and is hugely popular with US customers, as well as in the UK.
Now Lizzie has been inspired to create a new moon chart depicting the various phases of the Moon as it progresses through its cycle. However, whereas previously she has designed the chart with seaside motifs, her latest beautiful illustration shows these phases in the setting of Welsh countryside, creating a seamless landscape of a little harbour village against a backdrop of rolling hills. The clear starlit sky, chimney smoke and muted whites and blues depict a winter scene lending itself perfectly to a warming cup of tea.
This is a great mug for selenophiles (moon lovers) who already know their waxing crescent from their waning gibbous. But equally fun for the novice looking to learn the names of the stages, which are labelled on the illustration.
At just £16, this mug is affordable and practical. Made of bone China, this large mug will hold 12oz or 330ml of your favourite beverage. Particularly perfect for you or a loved one to enjoy a goodnight hot chocolate by moonlight.
Like all Driftwood Designs mugs, the Moon Cycles mug is designed by Lizzie in Aberystwyth and made in the UK.
There is also beautiful Moon Cycles design as a greetings card and lots more to choose from at the website https://driftwood designs.co.uk.
AG Fenced It & Garden Services
LOOKING for a local fencer service in Sutton Montis & surrounding areas?
At AG Fenced It they aim to provide a friendly and professional service to clients. They believe that small things make big differences so focus on doing the simple things right in order to provide exceptional customer service .
Honesty and integrity is at the heart of everything that they do. AG Fenced It are committed to providing their clients with exceptional services at competitive prices. They only use high-quality materials and techniques to ensure that their fences are durable, secure, and your garden is maintained to a high standard. They are also committed to completing projects on time and within budget.
New study on surprising DIY views revealed
The Easter Bank Holiday weekend provided extra free time and many saw this as a chance to get tasks around the house done. A recent survey nationally representative of UK homeowners reveals that 44% take on the challenge of DIY for a sense of accomplishment. The younger generation are leading the charge in this movement as 52% of Gen-z & Millennials feel achievement from even attempting a task, thanks to tips and tricks from TikTok! The development of new products that have been designed specifically with DIY-ers in mind has opened up a whole new world of possibility, to empower even the DIY shy to undertake projects without using a tradesperson.
Wunda Group , the market leading experts in underfloor heating and smart controls recently commissioned the YouGov research and surveyed the nation’s attitudes to DIY around the house. It found:
44% of homeowners in the UK are inspired to try a DIY project to gain a feeling of accomplishment.
52% of 25 - 34 year olds complete home improvement tasks to feel a sense of achievement, compared to less than half of older Millennials, Gen-X and Boomer age groups.
64% of homeowners are put off DIY due to a lack of skill and knowledge.
73% of UK homeowners would feel comfortable doing painting and decorating their own homes if they had to do a DIY job.
Although many people are driven to complete tasks out of satisfaction, there are still a number of homeowners who feel like they lack the confidence to carry out DIY projects. 64% of the public surveyed feel that they don’t have skills or knowledge to undertake a DIY task in the home, however, it is Wunda’s firm belief that this could be changed with more communication from brands, supporting the nation with information on how to take on these tasks with confidence.
Sam Jump, Product Manager at Wunda Group, says: “Working on the home can look like a difficult task and doing it yourself can seem daunting at first - even professionals must assess everything before they begin.
DIY TikTok star with 250k followers, Alex Dodman, installs his own Wunda Rapid Response Underfloor Heating (Image: @alexdodman. Wunda Group).
Although most Brits feel like they lack the skills to renovate their homes, we believe that new innovative products designed with DIY in mind, along with increased access to information through social media means many tasks are capable of being completed to a high standard –even underfloor heating! DIY is incredibly helpful because not only does it save money, but you can ensure that the job is done to your own satisfaction. Whether you are doing DIY because of cost concerns or to relax your mind like Gen-Z, at Wunda we know showing the public easy ways to conquer big tasks is the way to get more people confident about trying it themselves.
It’s shading season at Lizzie Price Shading Solutions and they have you covered! As we enter the Shading Season it’s the time to get planning your shading solutions for patios and gardens and thinking of ways to enjoy the outside with the unpredictable British weather! At LPSS their comprehensive range of premium quality retractable Awnings are weather tight with a vast range of fade free, water repellent fabrics ensuring years of use from your investment whilst fitting in with
Lizzie Price Shading Solutions offer a wide range of options to keep you protected from the elements this Spring.
your surroundings. For areas that are more open to the elements the Weinor Plaza Viva is perfect with a sturdy frame work to house your awning, making it the perfect choice for year-round use. Their range of Aluminium Verandas offer the flexibility to make the most of your garden for eating and enjoying siting outside all year round, whilst sheltered from the elements.
For indoor shading they offer a comprehensive range of blinds and plantation shutters for all shapes and sizes of windows.
Visit their website at www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions .co.uk to view the full range of what they have to offer and give them a call for a free, no obligation quotation.
Tea for two
SITUATED at the bottom of Cheap Street, Kafé Fontana offers both eat-in and take-away services to their regular customers and those visiting this picturesque town.
They welcome dogs and have seating inside, or outside if it’s nice. All of their cakes and scones are homemade on the premises.
In the mornings they provide a good hearty breakfast, with salads, quiches and homemade soups also on the menu throughout the day.
They have a selection of hot and cold drinks, are licensed and do some healthy smoothies too. If you have any special dietary needs Kafé Fontana can still provide you with good tasty food.
They also offer outside catering. Kafé Fontana is open Mon - Sat, 8am - 5pm, Sun 9.30am - 4.00pm.
The Buttercross Tearooms
Situated in the heart of Somerton’s Market Place is the award-winning Buttercross Tearooms.
They always source local foods and produce, make as much inhouse as possible, and stick to a seasonal menu which ensures the freshest flavour.
Buttercross Tearooms love welcoming back their customers as well as new passers-by. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, find out more at www.thebuttercrosstearooms .com.
Kafé Fontana
Kafé Fontana, Sherborne.
Enjoy al fresco dining at The Buttercross Tearooms, Somerton.
The Bigger Picture
With Bridget Sudworth
journalist’s notebook is an essential piece of kit. Mine is red backed, easy to spot, and was initially used to record conversation in writing with my now deceased first cousin who was deaf, slightly demented and very ancient at the time. My sister and I visited her in Guernsey, where she had lived for many years, then in a residential home. Anxious to communicate with her, it was easier to write things down rather than shouting over the background noise. It makes quite funny reading now as the conversation was clearly rather banal though has nuggets of interest that are worth reflecting on in retrospect.
Overall, it made me think about the amount of noise we all have to endure these days and this was fuelled by a programme of gentle nature by Sean Ronayne who toured Ireland to record the birdsong of all 200 species to be found there. Like everything else these days, the number of birds is dwindling so apart from wondering if Irish birds sing in Erse, it was quite a task to locate and record them all but simultaneously managed to reveal much of the glorious
landscape of that island. The volume and pattern of each bird was highlighted by the recorder and seemed as abstract as tangibly recording smells - a well nigh impossible feat. Apparently, jays can bark if they see a dog! Sean was able to focus on one call in among a mix of sound which, to my mind, is the same as being able to single out the performance of one instrument in an orchestra of many. If you think about it, a murmuration of starlings could be quite alarming to listen to if you weren’t prepared, though within the natural context, it is only to be expected that 1000s of birds would make a racket as they call to one another while navigating the crowded sky. To my delight, Sean, on his travels, visited Skellig Michael, that vast, gloomy, menacing rock 11 miles off the coast of Kerry, which is the largest gannet colony in the world as well as having a lighthouse to satisfy my fascination with such buildings! Sean prefers to listen to birds rather than humans. It’s difficult not to share that sentiment when faced with the usual gobbledegook that we all put up with from endless background music in every public place
coupled with the shouting and advertising cacophony that assails from all directions. On a recent train journey, a stream of rubbish came over the tannoy advising me to See It, Say It, Sort It, Stand Well Back from the Fast Train coming through, Mind the Gap (this has to be a metaphor for Life!) and This is a NonSmoking Station!
The down-side of noise is that a recent report has revealed the damage it is causing to the minds of those who are most exposed to huge amounts of it. Unwittingly, it also includes those of us who can’t avoid it. Research reveals that enormous amounts of
insidious stress is being caused by so much noise around us and is even being attributed to the exponential amount of Asbergers, Autism, ADHD and other neurodiversity problems. To name but a few, the list includes noisy neighbours, heavy traffic, night clubs, working machinery and for those jogging along country lanes, earphones stuffed in lug ‘oles that should frankly be outlawed as it eliminates any chance of hearing oncoming vehicles. One of our granddaughters is a DJ who was closely questioned at a recent meeting about sound damage. She assured us she wore special
The Bigger Picture
With Bridget Sudworth
ear plugs and head phones so may be spared some of the deafening sound but not so her happy disco dancers. Juvenile deafness will be another drain on the NHS. Smartphones as a source of noise, cause endless trouble and the results are only now, it would seem, being taken more seriously. Us oldies who grew up without even televisions are not surprised.
In our village, a recent scheme was launched to restore kneelers in our church, asking each social group to design and stitch a kneeler to represent their special interests. The result is a marvellous and clever collection of small works of art. Such ecclesiastical items often go unsung but when the collection was complete, they were showily displayed that revealed the huge amount of thought and care that had gone into the making of them. It was also a revelation of the number of groups within our village who gathered regularly to share interests. All fuel to the community fire!
Not content with that outburst of creation, there is another group currently choosing and ultimately stitching designs based on items of choice within the village - anything that takes the eye from structures of one kind or another to natural forms that will be recognisable when completed and which will celebrate interesting aspects of our village. They will be on permanent display in our village hall.
Communal stitching reminded me of the outstanding collection of embroideries at Hardwick Hall created by Bess of Hardwick, Countess of Shrewsbury with her imprisoned ward, Mary, Queen of Scots. Skilled needlewomen, together they worked on over 100 tapestries and panels which have endured over the years and remain to be marvelled at for the beauty, intricacy and surprising freshness of the work.
Bet you didn’t know that our baked beans, processed in Wigan and of which 2.5 million tins are consumed daily throughout the UK, are grown in Mr Trump Land. With MAGA tariffs ranging freely across the world, I had a mad idea that I would buy up all available stocks of Heinz beans and sell them at inflated prices from the garden gate. It might pay for our planned
holiday in Dorset! A holiday chosen, incidentally, to avoid airports, traffic, crowds, Brits away from home, noise and hugely inflated prices. Exploring the Dorset coast and ranging along the clifftop paths is a lure in itself to say nothing of NT properties, local museums, market towns and delicious fish lunches by the briny.
Little Wilfred will not be coming with us. His short legs
will easily tire of marching across the hills and anyway, he might take it into his head to stage a revolt by lying down, sometimes upside down, as a protest! Plus he needs drinks in warm weather and carrying his water supply can be tedious. ShihTzus are brachycephalic animals due to the shape of their skulls with a tendency to have restricted airways - getting overheated can be a danger so we monitor our
little Sumo-wrestler-disguisedas-a-tiny-Rottweiler with great care. He will be fought over at the local kennels where walking him is such a source of amusement. Looking at him from behind as he resolutely steams ahead is like seeing the back end of a small boy who needs to pull up his pyjama bottoms!! Needless to say, he will be greatly missed. Lovely, lovely May - gardens are stunning at this time of year!
SPRING MOTORING
I AM writing these words at the end of March and outside the sun is shining and the weather is mild, and very shortly I will be out riding my bike which is exactly what bright sunny Sunday's were designed for. Another 'old wives tale' insists that good weather on the 18th to the 21st March shows us the weather we can expect this summer. If it bodes well for the riding season then I am prepared to believe anything.
My picture this month is another I took at this year's Bristol Classic Bike Show. The machine featured is a 1907 Douglas and it is in remarkably original condition. A Mr. J.F. Barter designed the machine for Douglas and this was pretty much a copy of the Fairy machine in which J.F. Barter had been previously involved. 1907 was the first year of production for Douglas so the pictured machine must be one of their earliest creations. They had 350cc flat twin engines in a fore and aft position tucked high under the petrol tank and had direct drive to the rear wheel.
Douglas was a small company based in Bristol and one of the few southwest based motorcycle manufacturers. Production
continued throughout World War One and Douglas was a major supplier of motorcycles used by the forces. After the war some motorcycles were made under licence by Bosch in Germany. Production continued and expanded with 500cc and 600cc machines, some continued with side valves whilst others were modernised with overhead valve arrangements. Douglas machines were used in various forms of competition and in the late 1920's they became very prominent in the new sport of Speedway. In the 1930's they concentrated on making high quality machines but found that this approach became unsustainable financially so they later switched to making higher quantities of normal production standards.
Even so Douglas found survival difficult and went through various reorganisations. During the 1950's they became importers and agents for the Vespa scooters made in Italy. This liaison was not enough to keep things going and so production ended in 1956. Not a bad run though for such a small company. Douglas machines still have a loyal following today.
From matters in the past to what is happening in the near future as events continue. As usual starting with the Somerset Section of the VMCC, they have
their club night at Cossington on the 1st and this will be a guest speaker talking about the SSAFA Armed Forces charity. On the evening of the 15th will be a an Evening Meet at Huish Episopi and this is followed on the 18th with the All Day Breakfast Run from Spaxton Village Hall and lastly on the 25th will be Ruth's Day Out at Pitney Playing Fields. Now to the Dorset Section and they start on the 3rd with the Hedgerow Run from Lo's Cafe at Pimperne. Next will be club night at Pulham and this will be the Car and Bike Night. On the 18th will be the Coast Run which starts from the Top of Town Car Park at Dorchester and this is followed on the 25th with the Giants Run from Spire Hill. This one is for girder forked machines only and entries are fully booked, but it is still a good place to visit and spectate. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section are holding Bettie's Autojumble at Silton Village Hall on the 12th. As usual more details can be had by ringing 01935-872528.
The Wells and Westlands Classic Motorcycle Clubs are also busy in May and of particular note here is the Westlands Clubs 'Spirit of Motorcycling Run' on the 11th
May. I mentioned this new run before as it raises lots of money for local charities. This year it starts and finishes at Yeovil Rugby Club. Obviously an event worth supporting.
I made mention a couple of months back of a motorcycle made by the British Motor Traction Company which was coming up for auction by Charterhouse Auctioneers in March. Made in 1899 or 1900 the bike was virtually unique and carried an estimate of £10,000 to £15,000. I am glad to report that bidding was brisk and the hammer fell at £18,000. I am even more pleased to know that it was bought by someone in the United Kingdom. I wonder if we shall ever know what happens to the bike.
Now I accept that I am old fashioned and a bit of a dinosaur when it comes to modern technology but I have made an investment in a new mobile phone. This is my attempt to at least try to enter the 21st century. With guidance and a bit of practice I hope to soon be proficient enough to use the thing. So from next month onwards my number will change to some peculiar new format which I will never remember. Wish me luck.
VINTAGE Motorcycling with Rod Hann
1907 Douglas at the Bristol Classic Bike Show 2025.
Healthy drinking - should we trust the headlines?
I FREELY admit that compared to the average person I drink far too much. To be honest, I find it difficult sometimes to believe I haven’t pegged it yet. However, now in my eighth decade, the older I get, and given the number of funerals I attend, I reckon we have all got to die of something at some point and I am not doing too badly. Moderation is the key. A little of what you fancy can do you good.
For centuries, safer to drink than water, wine was a necessity for many people. The beauty and joy of this liquid gold has been embraced by humans since the dawn of civilisation; playing a key role in religion, and often integral to people’s cultural identities.
There is a long history of wine as inspiration to lovers and artists, and as an enhancer of celebrations and social moments. It helps bring people together and maximises the enjoyment of meals. Its positive impact should not be overlooked. There is also a strong belief, which I endorse, that if alcohol is not something that kids see as forbidden they will be less likely to abuse it as grown-ups.
In a recent medical paper, Laura Catena, who comes from a centenarian wine family, argues that recent anti-alcohol messaging is informed by inconclusive science and prohibitionist ideology.
In the three decades she spent as an emergency physician in California, she saw firsthand the disastrous impact of alcohol abuse; tragic accidents caused by drunk driving, treating countless patients for alcohol intoxication and withdrawal, as well as many other alcohol-related illnesses.
She has made a made a point of reading every scientific paper published about alcohol and health to explore, without bias, what really constitutes safe levels of alcohol consumption.
While there is clear consensus that heavy or binge drinking are very harmful, some scientists are making blanket statements, such as “no level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health”. This dismisses decades of research showing cardiovascular protective effects for moderate drinkers.
Misinformation about the risks of light to moderate alcohol drinking could lead people to either ignore guidelines or unnecessarily give up something that provides enjoyment and is
average blood sugar levels and lowers the risk of diabetes.
not proven to be harmful.
In a 2023 WHO publication Reporting About Alcohol: A Guide For Journalists , among the document’s contributors was someone working for an acknowledged temperance organisation, Movendi International
Despite firm evidence, moderate alcohol consumption’s cardioprotective effects have been dismissed and attacked by groups receiving anti-alcohol funding and admittedly cherry-picking their research cohorts. When examined more closely, the studies referenced in these articles often fail to reveal the full picture, where the conclusion is reached that higher mortality risk related to alcohol drinking starts for women at 1.8 drinks per day and for men at 3.2 drinks per day; quantities which exceed our guidelines.
In 2020 a study stated: “For adults over age 40, health risks from alcohol consumption vary by age and region. In this age group consuming a small amount of alcohol can provide some health benefits, such as reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes.”
This is supported by decades of research consistently showing that moderate drinkers (usually defined as between one and two drinks per day, with a few alcoholfree days each week) experience cardioprotective effects and a reduction in mortality. These effects on the human body make sense. In human studies it has been demonstrated that alcohol can increase good cholesterol (HDL), reducing clot formation that causes heart attacks and strokes. There is also solid data showing that moderate alcohol consumption reduces
However, alcohol is a known carcinogen and at high doses it increases the risk of several types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental illness, dementia, and accidents. Exceeding the liver’s natural processing capacity to clear harmful by-products gives a potential increase in breast cancer risk, but for a woman aged 60 the chances of dying from cardiovascular causes are approximately 10 times the risk, which moderate alcohol consumption can help to offset.
Many studies examining alcohol and cancer have shown a reduction in some cancers associated with moderate drinking (e.g. thyroid, kidney). Whilst 40% of cancer risk is related to modifiable risk factors, nearly 20% is related to tobacco, 15% to excess body weight, unhealthy dietary patterns, and physical inactivity, and a little over 5% to alcohol, which includes heavy drinkers. Adhering to the Mediterranean diet, including drinking wine in moderation, has been associated with a reduction in the incidence of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Alcohol’s complex effects on the human body have been investigated in many studies. The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease found that moderate regular alcohol intake was associated with better memory function among older adults and studies of patients with rheumatoid arthritis have reported potential benefits linked to moderate consumption.
When it comes to stress reduction, a 2023 Harvard study found that light to moderate alcohol drinkers had a marked reduction in activity in the fight or flight stress centre of the brain; associated cardioprotective effects were more pronounced in those with a diagnosis of anxiety.
Given the prevalence of alcohol consumption, and the many
communities who drink as part of their cultural heritage, it is important that research continues to work toward a better understanding of the overall effects of alcohol on the human body – and for that message to be communicated to the general public.
A 2018 Lancet study reveals that lifetime abstainers had substantially greater all-cause mortality than consumers of one or two drinks a day, and among those who spaced their consumption over several days per week, mortality was actually lower for individuals who consumed up to 200 grams of alcohol per week (equivalent to two glasses per day) than the rarest drinkers.
It is important to underscore that all binge drinking is harmful to health and eliminates any potential benefits of light to moderate consumption.
For those over 40, who are most at risk for cardiovascular disease, it seems reasonable that the quality of life gained from light to moderate drinking might be deemed greater than the potential harm. Blanket alcohol harm statements that don’t clarify the difference between moderate and excess drinking inaccurately inform the consumer.
Favouring moderate portions is optimal not just in terms of health and calorie intake, but also from a pleasure perspective. moderate drinking means less alcohol intake than most people think.
Whilst alcohol is not essential to survival any longer; those in countries such as France and Italy drink far less wine than they once did because it’s now a choice, not a necessity. Wine endures because of the deep and subtle pleasures it offers.
Good wine transports as it refreshes.
It’s an invitation to visit other cultures and worlds, to learn about history and geology, agriculture and environmentalism, offering a journey through time.
With L.P-V
With Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design
WITH so many bulbs, plants in flower and trees coming into blossom this month, it was really hard to single one out to write about.
I have chosen Erysimum ‘Bowles Mauve’ the perennial wallflower sometimes called the ever-lasting wallflower, raised and named after the famous gardener, plant hunter and writer E.A Bowles, and is a ‘go to plant’ of mine when planning borders for clients
This underrated cottage garden favourite is a really hard working
plant for a sunny, well-drained border and great value for money, flowering in a sheltered spot for up to 9 months of the year, or even longer!
Erysimum are low maintenance and frost hardy and will grow to about 60 cms in height and spread. It has narrow grey-green leaves with spires of rich mauve flowers, perfect for attracting pollinators.
The only down side of this plant, if there is one, is that after a few years the stems become a bit woody and leggy, but they are easily replaced by young plants taken from cuttings that will soon be established.
This plant will happily grow on its own in a container and looks good planted in a rock garden or raised bed or in a sunny border combined with an ornamental grass like Stipa Tenuissima and another favourite of mine, Salvia nemrosa caradonna that has spikes of purple and magenta flowers that complement each other perfectly.
So, if you are looking for an
early flowering perennial that is great value for money, easy to care for and looks great on its own or planted with others, then
Erysimum ‘Bowles Mauve’ is a must for your spring border. Until next time Happy Gardening.
Full ground preparation and laying service available
Erysimum ‘Bowles Mauve’
Erysimum ‘Bowles Mauve’.
2024 officially one of the worst years on record for UK butterflies
Newly released data has shown that 2024 was one of the worst years on record for butterflies in the UK and, for the first time on record, more than half of butterfly species in the UK are now in longterm decline.
Nine species had their worst year since counting began, including the much-loved Small Tortoiseshell, Chalk Hill Blue and Small Copper.
Worryingly, last year was also the second-worst year on record for 'wider countryside species' –the common butterflies that live in gardens, parks and across the landscape such as Common Blue, Gatekeeper and Large White.
The figures come from the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS) which has asked volunteers to count butterflies across the country since 1976 and now monitors more than 3,000 sites. The scheme is led by national charity Butterfly Conservation, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC).
Overall, 2024 was the fifth worst year since records began for UK butterflies. Butterfly numbers always fluctuate annually, and last year's low numbers are partly the result of a wet spring and relatively cool summer, however UKBMS data also show that 31 of the 59 resident UK species are now in long-term decline.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said: "I am devastated by the decline of our beloved British butterflies, and I’m sorry to say it has been brought about by human actions: we have destroyed wildlife habitats, polluted the environment, used pesticides on an industrial scale and we are
changing the climate.
In total, 51 of the UK's 59 species declined in 2024 compared to 2023, with just six species showing any increase.
Among the most concerning species is the Small Tortoiseshell: one of the most well-known butterflies in the UK, its bright colours and appearance in gardens have made it a recognisable favourite.
However, since the first UKBMS results in 1976, its abundance has plummeted by 86%. Numbers in 2023 were the worst ever at that point, and last year were down again.
Unlike many of the species that are faring the worst, the Small Tortoiseshell is not a rarity confined to nature reserves but a wider countryside species, living in all parts of the UK and drinking nectar from a wide variety of flowers. Its caterpillars feed on stinging nettles.
Of the eight other species that had their worst year on record, Green-veined White, Small Skipper, Large Skipper and Small Copper are also wider countryside species.
The Green-veined White, one of the UK's most widespread butterflies, is also now in significant long-term decline.
The Grizzled Skipper, Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary and Chalk Hill Blue, which also had their worst year on record, are already listed as threatened on the GB butterfly Red List.
These species all require specific habitat to thrive, and those habitats have been destroyed over the past century.
Dr Fox said:
"Most people will not be surprised by these results: all last summer we were inundated with people asking where the butterflies had gone and what they can do to help.
"By far the best thing we can do to help butterflies is to create more habitat. Last year we
published research which showed that letting parts of your garden grow wild with long grass increases the number and variety of butterflies that you see. That is why we are calling on people and councils across the UK to pledge to not cut their grass this year from April to September: this simple act can make a real, immediate difference to butterflies, moths and other wildlife."
Steve Wilkinson, Director of Ecosystem Evidence & Advice at JNCC, said: "The results revealed by the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme highlights why robust wildlife monitoring is absolutely essential for conservation. Without the dedicated efforts of
thousands of volunteers tracking butterfly numbers, we wouldn't fully understand the scale of this decline. This comprehensive surveillance allows us to identify which species need urgent intervention, track long-term trends, and measure the effectiveness of our conservation efforts. The UKBMS data doesn't just tell us about butterflies – it provides a critical indicator of the health of our wider environment. In the face of habitat loss and climate change, these monitoring schemes provide the evidence base we need to take meaningful action before it's too late.”
Find out more about letting your grass grow long at butterflyconservation.org.
Common Blue. Image: Jim Asher/Butterfly Conservation.
The Pub Pages
BEER & SKITTLES
THE recent spate of half-decent weather allowed us to partake in a few trial runs of our outdoor pub games, although they were just 'knockabouts' to kid ourselves that a really good summer is ahead and that we'll be getting plenty of sunshine! We can but hope that we get a good amount of vitamin D and perhaps even some of those long summer evenings, which sadly seem to have disappeared from the last few years. Or perhaps it's me. Bowling is a bit of a strange term, as there are so many games where the term applies. Here in the West Country it is generally used for ten-pin bowling or flat
green bowls. Two very different sports! So without diving into the rabbit hole of more varieties and rules, particularly as the sport goes back as far as the 1300's, the histories of individual clubs can be long and involved. Meanwhile, balls tend to be 'delivered' or 'played' at skittles and something as alien as crown green bowls is not to be seen at all. Crown green is exactly what it says; the green is not flat! This allows for some amazing deliveries, such as the bowl (biased, of course) almost coming back on itself, or it can even be made to travel in a straight line! We would need to go to the Midlands and particularly the North of England to find crown green bowls, and whilst I have seen some action on television I've yet to witness it in real life. Having owned a set of bowls for some years, I'd also acquired another set from the
'Freecycle' network and I purchased a crown green jack which is larger than the more familiar flat green version. Four of us played a made-up game of bowls at the local sports club at a point where the grass was shortcropped (two teams of two players, each with two bowls) using the principle of the crown game, which allows playing in any direction on the green. It was very successful; and joyous to have the sun shining, a view across the Dorset countryside, a beer in the hand and some good light-hearted banter. I really do think this version could be worth developing!
The histories of these games in relation to the pubs and clubs of England are explored in detail by the late Arthur Taylor in his book Played at the Pub, which I shall never stop promoting as the book for anyone with even a tiny interest in pubs or games. He
relates that the Chesterfield Club claims their history stretches back to 1294 and the Southampton Club to 1299! In the 15 years plus since this book was published there have been many changes in the hospitality industry, as we are all so aware, and doubtless some of the information in this fine book are inevitably a little out of date, but in many cases those changes were already ongoing. Sadly we have seen pub greens taken over for a car park or even development, which could even spell the end of the viability of the pub. Dare I suggest that in some cases it looked part of a plan? I do think that pub bowling greens have always been quite a rarity in the West Country, but perhaps you know differently? Let us hope that anything that does remain is big enough for a game of Bat and Trap!
Interestingly, bowls are often still referred to as 'woods' even though wooden bowls are a thing of the past, when they were manufactured from what is now a rare and highly restricted hardwood, lignum vitae. This is a wood so dense, it will not float! However, the skilled wood turner can take some of these old woods and turn them on a lathe in such a manner as to remove the bias from them and turn them into a
P. A. BAXTER
Crown Green bowls.
decent set of skittle balls. Indeed, the no. 2 alley at Yeovil's Johnston Park has such a set. They live to fight another day!
Dave Quinn is a man on a mission. He appears to be getting regular mentions in this column - and rightly so, as that mission is to promote pub and club use through the magic that is the beloved game! Dave and his mates do live broadcasts from their home alley – (for that read 'only alley in Oxfordshire known to have league games'!) so do take a look at Facebook ABM club and YouTube). As reported before, he has compiled an interactive map of all known leagues – and the map continues to grow. It is surprising how many leagues have been found with no online presence at all – well if there is no need, then there is, er... no need, although it makes Dave's job harder! Through the online games Dave has been contacted by his nearest league, which as it transpires is 16 miles away in Berkshire. Too far for a league game? Probably not, if the amount of travelling by members of the
'Crewkerne Farmers League' and the 'Cattistock Hunt League' are to go by! Let's see what develops as I know Dave will continue with this task, for whilst we know there are alleys in Berkshire, the number of leagues is at present unknown. Meanwhile, do remember to Google 'Map of UK skittle leagues' and be blown away by those numbers. After all, these are the people supporting their local pubs and clubs come rain or come shine!
The gentle game of 'Toad in the Hole' continues to engage the time of your writer at present, and whilst I am only in my first ever build of the game (pictured) it has already given us much fun. Like all good games, it has a skill, but can be played by anyone of any age and has that large fun element. Not having a 'proper' set of 'Toads' yet (they're on order!) I made some by gluing Churchill crowns together, which makes them a reasonable weight and personally I think they are a cheap alternative as those crowns are apparently still worth just 25p! Hopefully messing with the King's tender does not carry punishment these days or I could be off on a seven year holiday to Australia.
At this juncture I need to give a name-check to Noel Wilkins, resident of Brighton, who runs his own landscaping business and also makes the most amazingly crafted 'Toads' games you ever did see. I'm delighted to say that Noel and his wife Anne travel the local area supporting pubs, and Noel is a dab hand at playing 'Toads' too (although he did get knocked out of the recent world championships). I'm also delighted to say an album of his creations is available to view on the Facebook 'Pub Games' group.
Yes, he does make and sell them to order, so take a look - and be amazed! Also please do take a look at gameoftoads.com and then work out why your pub is still to have one of these games. It fits in front of the dartboard so takes up little extra room. No excuses; you need it, NOW!
Just time to mention the Lewes Skittle Tournament. I'd heard of it a while back but not reported it to you good people. Take a look here https://www.rotarylewes .co.uk/skittles and let me know what you think; should we do this in the West Country, or if we do, why don't we all know about it?
Please note our new email address, (see below). Thanks to the old one playing silly-billies and intermittently locking us out, this comes with an apology to anyone who has written and not received some sort of acknowledgement. Any correspondence is probably now circulating around the planet Zobb! Please don't despair; I really do like hearing from you all so do please pop me a line! Cheers!
That a dog or dogs have been attacking sheep in the Charlton Horethorne area. Please ring police with breed and colour if you can, thank you.
That life is cool at the Market Street Bakery in Crewkerne … ice cubes and air conditioning. That the village of Othery is to mice, as Cheltenham is to horses.
That the only house warming present that Mike and Jackie Hodder of Yeovil need - is a bag of nuts.
That congratulations go to Terry and Mo Cutler of South Petherton on their recent Emerald Wedding Anniversary … life’s a gas!
That 'hunt the working parking meter’ is the latest game visitors to Crewkerne have to play.
That Sharon of Stylique in Somerton has dreams of becoming a lumberjack.
ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ
1)Queen
2) Hot Chocolate
3) The Lightning Seeds
4) The Beatles
5) Bob Marley and the Wailers
6) Britney Spears
7) Chelsea
8) 'Bizarre'
9) New Bohemians
10) Flute
Bonus Question: New Zealand
Worth a Guess: 6,220,000 (give yourself 10% either way)
Vinny tries to make a friend...
Game of Toads.
Question: Where’s the party?
FOR many people 8th May 1995 was a date of considerable personal significance. It was the 50th anniversary of the ending of World War II in Europe, and for the May Visitor a reporter trawled the archives of local newspapers to find out how VE Day was celebrated in 1945. ‘Church bells were rung, effigies of Hitler were variously hanged by the roadside or burned atop bonfires, bands performed in the streets until they could play no more and people danced throughout the night, with or without the band. Impromptu street parties were organised for the children. Union Jacks, bunting and all the trappings of festivity were miraculously produced as if from nowhere.’ Elsewhere in the same issue it was reported that ‘by the 6th April Yeovil Town Council had received only two applications to hold street parties in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of VE Day’.
The writer hoped that ‘this is because nobody with half a mind to organise a street party would ever think for a moment that they had to ask the permission of the Town Council’, adding that probably ‘everyone is waiting for someone else to organise a street party and perhaps nobody really minds if they don’t. After all, there’s probably a better party at your local pub on VE Day.’
Answer: At the pub
Indeed a goodly number of Visitorland pubs advertised VE Day celebrations. Some, like the Mildmay Arms at Queen Camel, the Catash in North Cadbury and the Dolphin in Wincanton, did not elaborate on the nature of their celebrations but others were more forthcoming.
The Lamb and Lark at Limington was holding ‘a nostalgic singalong in the evening’, the Chetnole Inn was offering ‘a selection of food cooked to traditional recipes’ and the Red House Inn near Yeovil was staging a ‘VE Day Celebration Barbecue (weather permitting!)’. Prematurely the Horse Pond Inn at Castle Cary was celebrating on the previous Saturday with a 1940s Party Night, complete with
prizes for the best 1940’s costumes and a ‘special restaurant menu (no ration book needed)’.
Museums make news
Still on the VE Day theme, two local museums made news in the May 1995 Visitor. It reported that ‘Castle Cary Museum has been mounting some fascinating displays of wartime memorabilia to coincide with the various 50year anniversaries up to the present all-important VE Day’. It noted that ‘most of the exhibits, which range from bits of uniform to – horror of horrors – a bottle of wild rabbit meat, have all been contributed by local people’.
And ‘following an extensive programme of conservation of the exhibits and rehousing them in the purpose-built room alongside the new library, the Gillingham Museum is now open to the public’. According to the report, ‘on permanent display is a wide variety of local archaeological finds, as well as changing displays of a more topical nature such as the VE Day theme’ but ‘pride of place goes to the ancient fire engine in the centre of the room’.
A democratic dearth
Four days before VE Day Visitor land saw another important occasion – the local elections for its district, town and parish councils. And as is so often the case, then as now, it was the dearth of candidates that made the news.
The May 1995 Visitor reported that ‘in Gillingham, for example, only 12 applicants could be found, from whatever political persuasion, to stand for the 15 vacancies on the town council’, while ‘in some areas the Conservatives are totally out of sight, such has been the lack of candidates
putting themselves forward’. In the Paperchase column the writer laid part of the blame on the local press, stating that ‘so far only the Chard and Ilminster News has given the local elections their due prominence’. That newspaper quoted at length the outgoing chairman of South Somerset Conservatives who bemoaned the lack of candidates in Chard and ‘another four years of second rate performance, second rate prospects and second rate planning’. The Visitor’s columnist wondered why this Conservative lady was ranting so vehemently and why ‘the Conservatives couldn’t find a single candidate to contest any of the five district council seats in Chard and have put forward just one candidate for the 15 seats on Chard Town
What’s new?
Recent news that the Post Office is planning to franchise the remaining 108 directly-owned Crown Post Offices brought added relevance to this report in The Visitor 30 years ago. The PO’s management ‘would like to hear from a retail business in the centre of Gillingham with at least 1200 sq ft of retail space, who would like to take on the post office counter operation to run alongside and complement their other business’. Apparently it was felt that the existing building on Station Road looked ‘rather forbidding’ and dated from prewar years ‘when the post office could assume that the public would have to come to them whether they liked it or not’. Roger Richards.
Cl ass ified Ads
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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
For Sale
TWO METAL TRAILERS in good condition: 1200x900x300 £55. 1200x800x650 £85. Tel: Charlton Mackerel 07833 453295
Prize Crossword No. 462 Set by Frank Butler
SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO:
The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Monday 19th May.
Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize for winning the Crossword is a £30 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. Heart of county in the high seas in the High Peak [8]
5. Dig up Brighton’s partner (between small and large) [6]
9. If the one won’t come to me, I must go to the one [8]
10. Change a cigar for a fungus [6]
11. Throw coin into cart inducing torpor [8]
12. Dedicated person shaped like an orange [6]
14. Young child took half London, plus a Scotsman, and resided 55 miles south of Baghdad [10]
18. III strides for whisky makers [10]
22. Mountain goats yielding Beryllium, Iodine, Sulphur and Xenon [6]
23. Sovereign size of paper [8]
24. Ladies’ standards [6]
25. Criterion flag [8]
26. End of game noised abroad [2-4]
27. unrefined impolite fuel [5, 3]
Clues Down:
1. Acting dumb [6]
2. Run hut without pain [6]
3. Pig thief with primative drum [3-3]
4. I gain Mabel? Can be conceived! [10]
6. Lofty ridge intellectual [8]
7. Word for word, brave confused little man [8]
8. Reading places where leaderless Alec is chased by sea birds [8]
13. Measuring float disturbed Mother Dyer [10]
15. Create din to aid more [8]
16. Lady director with ourselves and lady with points [8]
17. Told untruths about ringer and defamed in writing [8]
19. Through gesture of assent get aniseed drink [6]
20. Fuss after Kim returns with Japanese emporer [6]
21. Allude in confusion to alchemist’s pot [6]
Solution to Crossword 461
Winner of the April Crossword is Janet Etherington of Warminster who chose to spend the £15 Voucher at Bretts Pet & Wildlife Supplies in Sherborne.
