Putting the clocks back an hour in late October puts my life into Winter mode – an early tea followed by a long evening curled up in front of a blazing log fire with a good book and a glass or two of something warming. For weeks the declining temperatures and shortening days have confirmed that Summer is well and truly over and Autumn is upon us, and although it’s commonly accepted that Autumn starts at the equinox on or around 23rd September when the day and night are of approximately equal length, we don’t wait for the solstice on 21st December, the shortest day of the year, to declare the onset of Winter.
In days gone by, 31st October, All Hallows Day, was ‘the night of the living dead’ when ghosts and ghoulies were thought to be out and about and the spirits of the dead could revisit the mortal world. Hallowe’en is a pre-Christian festival marking the end of the Celtic year and the beginning of Winter, the day when bells used to be rung in Blandford to guide the spirits back home from purgatory, but sadly this and other associated folk traditions have long been usurped by the American abomination Trick or Treat and all its mass-produced masks, costumes and other tat. Immediately following is All Souls’ Day when the dead are presumably safely back in purgatory and our prayers are needed to speed their journey into Heaven. Then comes Guy Fawkes Night when bonfires and fireworks are lit to commemorate his failed attempt to kill King James I at the state opening of Parliament in 1605. I sometimes wonder whether people are celebrating his attempt or his failure, but perhaps this doesn’t matter more than 400 years after the event.
Also in early November come the last of Visitor land’s greatest free attractions, our carnivals, – in Shepton Mallet, Wells and Glastonbury – which provide a
further connection with Mr Fawkes as their origins lie in the 1600s when many parts of Somerset took to the streets each year to commemorate the Gunpowder Plot. A tradition that has survived for centuries, they provide spectacular displays for people of all ages who come from miles around to admire the processions of illuminated floats and fancy-costumed walkers. And they raise a lot of money for good causes. Thanks to the year-round hard work of the relatively small number of people involved in devising, financing, building and appearing on the floats, the rest of us are able to enjoy marvellous entertainment in exchange for a handful of loose change lobbed into a bucket. They deserve a generous number of pound coins amongst the change.
As memories of this Summer’s village fruit and flower shows, festivals and countryside events fade fast, not even the glorious Autumnal colours can disguise the depressing fact that another year is coming to an end. Thank goodness prolonged Winter snow is a rarity in Visitor land these days.
NN.
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December Issue
Deadline: 17th November
Published: 27th November
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ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED 34
ANTIQUES 29
CASTLE CARY 14
CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 18
CROSSWORD 34
GARDENING 28
HOUSE & HOME 22
LEISURE 21
LOOKING GOOD 23
MENTIONED in DISPATCHES 5
MOTORING 26
PHONE A FIRM 33
POP QUIZ 21
PUBS 30
REMEMBER WHEN 32
SUDOKU 21
THE BIGGER PICTURE 24
THEY SAY 31
WINE & DINE 20
Cartoons by GEOFF THOMPSON
Wincanton Christmas Fair 2025, Tuesday 25th November 10-4pm at Wincanton Racecourse
A FANTASTIC and unique Christmas shopping experience in the heart of Somerset. 50 independent stalls selling unique and quality products making it a great opportunity to get all your Christmas shopping done in one place, under one roof.
There is ample free parking. Disabled parking almost to the door.
The Christmas Fair is held in a huge marquee which benefits from a raised, carpeted floor and heating.
This year they are thrilled to work with an excellent caterer who will provide the all-day cafe with teas, coffees, snacks and delicious light lunches in the adjacent Kingwell Suite - where you can sit and enjoy your time in the warm and dry.
Every year there is a balance of popular regular stalls and
excellent new stalls offering a wide range of products from traditional to contemporary and everything in-between. There is always something for everyone.
The full list of stalls can be viewed on the website ‘Exhibitor’ page.
A raffle for a luxury hamper in support of the charity - Children’s Hospice South West. Entrance to the Fair is £5.
Great Christmas Shopping Opportunity!
For the first time ever, four local Men's Sheds are collaborating to hold a craft exhibition and sale. Langport, South Petherton, Somerton and Yeovil Sheds are busy making toys, chopping boards, bird boxes, bug hotels and dozens of other things out of wood to sell at High Ham Village Hall on Saturday, November 22nd,
Mentioned in Dispatches
from 10am-3pm. Bring the children to visit Santa between 11am and 1pm, and while you're there, stop for a bacon butty or a delicious coffee and cake.
Deborah Meaden to headline Unlocking Somerset Talent event at North Cadbury Court
Renowned entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den investor Deborah Meaden will join business leaders, educators and SMEs at North Cadbury Court on Wednesday 6th November for Unlocking Somerset Talent , an inspiring event dedicated to exploring how apprenticeships and partnerships with education can help businesses thrive.
Organised by Passion for Somerset CIC and sponsored by Porter Dodson and Eurilait to showcase the power of collaboration between employers and educational institutions, Unlocking Somerset Talent will highlight practical insights,
success stories and strategies to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in building a skilled workforce while fuelling growth and innovation.
A key moment of the day will be an exclusive ‘In Conversation with Deborah Meaden’, where she will share her unique perspective on the importance of nurturing future talent, investing in people and creating meaningful collaborations that strengthen both businesses and communities.
Speaking about her involvement, Deborah Meaden said:
“Apprenticeships and strong links with education are crucial to ensuring businesses, especially
SMEs, have the talent they need to innovate and succeed. I’m looking forward to being part of this event and to hearing the inspiring stories of businesses across Somerset who are investing in the next generation.”
The event will bring together employers, training providers, colleges and apprentices creating a forum to exchange ideas, explore opportunities, and showcase the transformative impact of apprenticeships and skills development.
The event takes place on Wednesday 6 November 2025, 9.00am – 2.30pm at North Cadbury Court, Nr Yeovil, Somerset. Businesses across
Somerset are encouraged to attend and be part of shaping a stronger, more innovative future through talent development and collaboration.
For more information and to register, visit: https:// bit.ly/3V2GhBS.
St Margaret’s Hospice launches ‘Sponsor a Nurse’ campaign to help secure the future of compassionate care St Margaret’s Hospice has launched a new fundraising campaign, Sponsor a Nurse, calling on the Somerset community to help safeguard the future of its vital nursing care for patients and families facing lifelimiting illnesses.
Every day, St Margaret’s nurses provide a lifeline of comfort, compassion and dignity - whether in patients’ homes, in outpatient services such as the Sunflower Centre day hospices in both Yeovil and Taunton, or at the In-Patient Unit in Taunton, and through the 24/7 Advice Line. They care for thousands of people each year across Somerset, ensuring patients and their loved ones are never alone at the most difficult of times.
By choosing to sponsor a nurse with a monthly gift, supporters will help ensure St Margaret’s
Mentioned in Dispatches
can continue to deliver expert, round-the-clock care when and where it’s needed most to ensure patients can live as well as they can for as long as they can.
Can you help secure the future of compassionate care?
Ralph Langworthy-Smith, Community Nurse for the hospice said, “We support people with all kinds of life-limiting illnesses. One of the nicest moments is when a patient is genuinely happy to see me - it reminds me that trust and human connection matter just as much as medical care.”
Choose your sponsorship level: £8 a month – could provide support from a Healthcare Assistant, helping a patient feel refreshed and ready for the day ahead.
£12.50 a month – over a year could pay for two home visits from a Community Nurse, like Ralph, offering comfort and expert care in familiar surroundings.
£18.50 a month – over a year could cover the cost of a nursing shift on the In-Patient Unit, ensuring dignity and emotional support for patients with complex needs.
Supporters will also receive a custom-designed car window sticker featuring our Sponsor a Nurse logo, personal updates from a local nurse, and two editions of The Sunflower newsletter each year, to see firsthand the impact of their gift.
Patients’ families also recognise the difference that St Margaret’s care makes, Natasha a family member says: “I didn’t know much about hospices at all until I encountered one, but the whole time I felt loved and supported by everyone there. We were all looked after, and it made a difficult time a much more peaceful experience.”
St Margaret’s Committed Giving Manger, Kim Gaylard who is managing the Sponsor a Nurse campaign added,
“Our nurses are at the heart of
everything we do. By sponsoring a nurse, you’re not just making a donation - you’re ensuring that patients across Somerset receive the compassion, comfort and dignity they deserve, now and in the future.”
To sponsor a nurse and help secure the future of expert hospice care in Somerset, visit www.st-margarets-hospice .org.uk/sponsor-a-nurse.
Blow the Christmas and New Year Cobwebs Away!
Blackmore Vale Lions Club (BVLC) are delighted to announce that the BVHM 26 has been provisionally registered with the athletics authorities and will take place on Sunday 1 February 2026 starting at 11.00 am at Bishops Caundle Recreation Ground (DT9 5NG).
Race HQ is in the Village Hall, Holt Lane, Bishop’s Caundle on the other side of the A3060. The course is the usual one and they hope it stays dry this year. The major charities this year are prostate cancer related but there will be other local good causes. BVLC are always looking to help with this and any of their
THE BUT TERCROSS TEAROOMS
Market Place, Somer ton (01458) 273168
Homemade Cakes & Scones Morning Coffee, Cream Teas Lunch Served 12 – 3pm
Open: Tue – Sat 9am – 4pm
other activities. If you want to help please contact Tim Otter on 07748 090802 or the contact form on either of the websites, for the BVHM https://bvlhm.yolasite .com or BVLC https://bvlions .yolasite.com which has details of the club. They would love to see you.
To enter go to the BVHM site www.https://bvlhm.yolasite.com and register online or by post. Online is much easier and helps
them to organize the event. Alternatively you can go to https://englandathletics.sport80 .com/public/wizard/e/28524 which is even easier.
The race limit is 450 and entries close at 14.00 on 30th January 2026 or once they have reached 450 runners, first come first served. You must be over 18 on 1 February 2026 to take part. There is also a 5¾ mile fun run which starts 10 minutes later.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Cranborne ChaseDroves & Downs opens Wednesday 5th November Droves & Downs is a brand new exhibition from four artists who were awarded bursaries by Dorset Visual Arts to create a body of work inspired by the Cranborne Chase National Landscape.
Via an open call, artists were invited by Dorset Visual Arts to submit proposals to explore the different facets of the Chase’s ecology and heritage - meadows, river systems, and byways as well as aspects of its communities, human history and importance now as a National Landscape.
Annabel Beasley, Siân Cann, Richard Gregory and Tonia Gunstone have spent the summer researching chosen areas, delving into this precious landscape, with support from Cranborne Chase National Landscape officers and advisors. As well as exploring both individual and collective stories of the Chase, the artists have also been encouraged to
develop new approaches to their practice informed by some of the unique features of this secluded area which lies at the heart of Wessex.
The distinctive landscape of the Chase, criss-crossed by droves, chalk streams, and ancient Roman roads, has long captivated artists. Its surreal Stone, Bronze, and Iron-Age monuments, interspersed with isolated groves, woods, and dry valleys, have inspired figures such as John Craxton, Stanley Spencer, and Elizabeth Frink.
Featuring Photography, Drawing, Sculpture, Painting and Film, the results of the project will be unveiled in a group exhibition at Shaftesbury Arts Centre from Wednesday 5thTuesday 18th November, 10am4pm, free admission.
Dispatches
Four-year winning streak for Dorset’s breeding Little Terns
This year the Chesil Little Tern Recovery Project celebrated the fourth successive year of productive breeding in Dorset. The project recorded a total of 61 nests on Chesil Beach this summer, with an estimated 55 breeding pairs who fledged 39 plus chicks, slightly down from last year’s 45 plus fledglings (Little Tern chicks are so well camouflaged that they are hard to count, so more may have fledged unnoticed). Another incredible result as only three fledglings survived in 2021.
Little Terns are the UK’s smallest and most vulnerable seabirds, weighing no more than a tennis ball. The colony on Chesil beach is the last remaining Little Tern nesting colony in south west England. The RSPB, UK’s largest wildlife charity, are hopeful that this year’s results will maintain the upward trend in population since 2009 as the newest Little
Tern fledglings mature into adulthood and join the other breeding pairs. There’s hope that the size of the colony will increase in the future with the project’s protection.
The colony’s success is testament to a team of over 60 dedicated volunteers who work from dawn till dusk to help protect the nesting Little Terns, their eggs and chicks, as part of the Chesil Little Tern Recovery Project. This year alone at least 1017 hours of staff and volunteer time were committed to their care.
Each breeding season a team of RSPB volunteers carries out crucial tasks to safeguard the colony, including protecting the birds from human disturbance on the beach during the busy summer months. Volunteers also safeguard the bird’s eggs and chicks from potential predators mainly via maintaining a predator fence around the colony each summer.
Little Terns fly all the way from West Africa each April to lay their eggs and raise their young here on Chesil Beach as well as on Norfolk’s beaches. They
lay their perfectly camouflaged, fragile eggs directly onto the sand or pebbles. Whilst this makes the eggs more difficult for a predator to spot, it means they are also difficult for us to see, blending in with the surrounding pebbles means these eggs are vulnerable to trampling by unsuspecting beach goers.
The project is led by the RSPB, in partnership with Crown Estate, Dorset Council, Portland Court Leet, Chesil & Fleet Nature Reserve, Dorset Wildlife Trust, and Natural England.
However, Little Terns have suffered a 39% decline since the 1980’s due to threats including the loss of safe, suitable breeding places (exacerbated by climate change), free from disturbance, high predation, and declining food availability.
Despite their losses, we know that conservation action works, with concerted efforts resulting in a 6.7% increase in numbers in England since 2019. This increase demonstrates just how effective nest protection schemes can be when organisations and local communities work together.
To find out more and apply to become a volunteer for the 2026 Chesil Beach Little Tern breeding season, email: chesil.tern @rspb.org.uk.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Gillingham School Sixth Form to offer new T Level in Digital Software Development
From September 2026, Gillingham School Sixth Form will offer a brand-new T Level in Digital Software Development –a cutting-edge qualification combining classroom learning with real industry experience. This two-year, Level 3 course is equivalent to three A Levels and prepares students for the future tech workforce.
Prospective students and families are encouraged to attend the school’s upcoming Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 20th November to find out more about this new pathway and meet the staff leading the course.
T Levels are a new, nationally recognised qualification, designed in collaboration with employers. They are career-focused, with the T Level in Digital Software Development preparing students for a number of roles in the digital sector. One T Level carries the same UCAS points as three A Levels, enabling students to progress onto higher level apprenticeships, further education or the workplace. T Level students are also able to gain valuable industry experience through a work placement, developing professional skills and
acquiring practical knowledge that goes beyond what can be taught in the classroom. Students not only gain a qualification, but also have meaningful work experience that will set them
apart in future applications.
Students will spend 80% of their time in the classroom and 20% on placement, studying programming, software development, cybersecurity, IT support, and digital project management with a focus on emerging technologies. Here they will benefit from expert teaching, whilst also being able to access the wider enrichment programme that makes Gillingham Sixth Form so unique.
Assessment will include core knowledge exams, employer-set projects, occupational specialism assessments, and successful completion of the industry placement. Students will receive a nationally recognised qualification that records performance across all parts of the T Level, emphasising the range of skills required to complete the course.
This qualification can open pathways to higher-level apprenticeships in digital roles; direct employment in skilled positions such as software developer, systems engineer, IT technician, or digital analyst; and a variety of university degrees. Entry Requirements are:
• Five GCSEs at grade 4+, including English and Maths
• A strong interest in digital technology or computing
• GCSE Computer Science helpful but not essential Essential skills for success include problem-solving, logical thinking, teamwork, adaptability, and strong IT proficiency.
Students and parents are encouraged to attend the Sixth Form Open Evening to learn more about the Digital Software Development T Level and other post-16 options, including the launch of a new Criminology A level as part of the wide-ranging social sciences offer.
The Open Evening is on Thursday 20th November, commencing in the Main Hall at 6pm.
Unique Somerset event to mark anniversary of end of WW2
Wells Cathedral is to host the Somerset Festival of Remembrance 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War – and members of the public are being urged to support what promises to be a unique event.
It is being organised by Somerset County Royal British Legion who say it is likely to be one of the last occasions where veterans who took part in the war might attend. Extracts from audio interviews conducted with some of those veterans will be played during the evening.
The service, to honour the courage, resilience and sacrifice of Somerset people at home and abroad, will take place on Saturday November 1st, from 7pm to 9.30pm.
It will feature performances by the Central Band of the Royal British Legion and the Yeovilton Military Wives Choir. Other highlights will include parading the Somerset Book of Honour, the Act of Remembrance (with a poppy drop) and a multi themed programme, tracing Somerset’s wartime experiences, from mobilisation to liberty and legacy.
The evening will be compered by two former BBC correspondents and presenters, Ali Vowles and Clinton Rogers.
Commodore Robert Mansergh, Somerset County President of the Royal British Legion, said:
“I really hope Somerset turns out in force to honour the service and sacrifice of the people of Somerset at one of the most turbulent times in our history.
“And to be able to hear from veterans who were actually there will undoubtedly be very moving. It promises to be a wonderful night, with fitting entertainment from fabulous musicians.”
Somerset’s Lord-Lieutenant Mohammed Saddiq, who will be guest of honour at the service, added: “We owe all these people an enormous debt of gratitude. We owe them the freedoms we enjoy today – and that is what this service is all about.”
Tickets for the event are
available through the following link: https:/somerset-festival-ofremembrance-2025.eventbrite .co.uk.
If you need assistance in buying tickets online, please call Wells Cathedral box office on 01749 832207 or email: bookings@wellscathedral.org.uk.
Mentioned in Dispatches
Music for St Cecilia's Day
Following the success of their first two concerts, Chorale21 is delighted to be celebrating St Cecilia's day (the patron saint of music and musicians) on 22 November with a gloriously rich programme of Mozart (Missa brevis), Pergolesi (Magnificat) and Vivaldi (Concerto for two violins in A minor).
Conducted by Matthew Redman, with a cast of four fabulous soloists and all accompanied by the strings of
Ensemble21, this promises to be a wonderful concert. Performed in the warm acoustic of St John's Glastonbury, this will be a suitably celebratory event.
Saturday 22 November at St John's Glastonbury. Tickets: £15, on the door by card or cash. No charge for under 16s. Programmes: £3. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Refreshments will be available throughout the evening.
The Blockheads set to hit Frome on Friday 5th December
Heading for the Cheese & Grain on Friday December 5, 25 years since the passing of the band's legendary founder and figurehead, Ian Dury, The Blockheads have very much kept the legacy of his outstanding contribution to British music alive and kicking!
The current line still features the joint songwriters Mickey Gallagher and Chas Jankel along with long term stalwarts John Turnbull, John Roberts, Dave Lewis and the incomparable front man Mike Bennett. With a back catalogue to die for, expect all the classic hits and one of the most entertaining and dynamic shows you're ever likely to see!
Cary in Bloom Win Gold!
CARY in Bloom were absolutely thrilled with their results from the South West in Bloom Awards!
Cary in Bloom were awarded Gold for Horticulture, Gold for Environment and Gold for Community and they WON the Ayre Cup!
Cary in Bloom took first place in the Small Town category
(population 2,500–5,499).
Their wonderful showcase entries also excelled:
Eat Cary – Outstanding (the highest award!)
Castle Cary Primary School –Outstanding (the highest award!)
And there’s more! They were honoured with two special awards:
South West Tourism Salver –Best Produced Judge’s Portfolio Viridor School Composting Award – Best Primary School Compost Scheme.
A spokesperson said:
“Cary in Bloom couldn’t be prouder of the town. Here's to the volunteers, school, groups, businesses and local supporters who make Cary bloom all year round!”.
Castle Cary was buzzing as crowds turned out to celebrate carnival on a great night for the town Encouraged by great weather, an enthusiastic crowd of revellers gathered in Castle Cary on Saturday 11th October to celebrate the tradition and creativity of carnival!
The big carts lit up the narrow ancient streets, with incredibly creative walkers, top twirling majorettes and tip-top bands completing the wonderful procession.
The Bournemouth Carnival aka ‘Spiderman’ Band did a great job of warming the crowd up, and the Blackdown Samba Band kept the party going by playing a toetapping set after the procession, outside the Market House.
“It was great to see the community come together for a great night out” said Society Chair, Malcolm Wake. “Entrants always say that Cary Carnival is special because the crowd is so warm and welcoming. We proved that with cheers and dancing in the streets!”
“The biggest cheers of the night went to the local entries, especially the primary schools, families and youth groups.”
“The numbers of children and the creativity of the entries was great to see!” added, Malcolm.
“Over 70% of the collection goes
to local charitable causes so we’re delighted to say that from both carnivals we raised £2,200. A very big thank you to our evergenerous community!” said Doug Crosse, new Carnival Treasurer.
The Carnival Society would like to thank everyone; their sponsors, marshals, collectors and the 100’s of other people who help make the big night out happen. It takes a community to put on a carnival!
For full Carnival results, and more about Castle Cary’s carnivals, see www. ccacs.org.uk.
Castle Cary Antiques & Interiors
From rustic country farmhouse furniture to elegant Georgian chic, and eclectic collectibles to contemporary artwork, Castle Cary Antiques & Interiors is set over a large footprint including a barn that houses an interior design gallery full of art work, studio pottery, lighting and much more.
Lots of cabinets that stock
antique and modern jewellery and silver items including silver topped perfume bottles as well as militaria, toys and glass.
There are areas dedicated to second hand books, as well as vintage clothing and up-cycled furniture, if you would like to do your own up-cycling they also stock Frenchic paint.
Open seven days a week: Mon - Sat 10am- 5pm, Sun 11am-4pm.
You can also visit them on Instagram or on their website: www.castlecaryantiques.com.
Chocolate as it should be!
Discover how delicious natural chocolate can be. Craft indulgent treats using pure wholesome ingredients. Free from Dairy, Refined sugar, Gluten, Soy, and anything artificial.
Enjoy a joyful, sensory and educational experience - and plenty of chocolate to take home. What's included:
All ingredients, tools & eco friendly packaging. Step by step
guidance with chocolatier Emily. Lots of tasters - and plenty to take home. Please let Emily know of any allergies when booking. For further information please email: emily@asrawas.com.
Cooper & Tanner – Your Next Move Starts Here
As 2025 comes to a close, now is the perfect time to start planning your next chapter. Whether you're thinking of buying, selling, or letting in the New Year, why not drop byCooper & Tanner’s Castle Cary office in Regent House on Fore Street?
Their friendly team is there to help turn your property dreams
into reality in 2026.
With over a century of trusted service, Cooper & Tanner are proud to be one of the region’s most respected estate and letting agents, auctioneers, and surveyors. Operating from twelve offices across Somerset and Wiltshire, they bring local expertise and a personal touch to every move.
The Castle Cary branch is led
Cooper & Tanner on Fore Street.
by David Swain, whose approachable and knowledgeable team handles all aspects of property sales and lettings in the town and surrounding villages. Call them on 01963 350327 or email castlecary@cooperand tanner.co.uk.
Let them make your next move your best one yet.
Cary’s Christmas
Join in the festive fun at Cary’s Christmas on Thursday 11th December from 5.30pm throughout Castle Cary town centre. Enjoy late night shopping,
festive food and drink, a raffle, children’s activities and community and charity stalls. In addition, this year The White Hart is hosting a Christmas Market, featuring real reindeer! A schedule of wonderful entertainment is planned, including Morris Men, music, majorettes, carol singers and performances from Castle Cary Primary School children. Look out for a visit from Father Christmas at 6.45pm and once again the Museum will be hosting a Victorian Christmas Experience – traditions, history & legends, food and toys all on display in the Museum on the 1st floor of The Market House from 5.30pm – not to be missed! An evening for everyone, so do not miss this fabulous annual town event and support your local High Street this Christmas. Please note various roads throughout the town will be closed from 4pm –9.30pm.
Please also support Cary’s Christmas coffee morning on Saturday 15th November at The Market House, raising vital funds to create the event in December. Enjoy delicious homemade cakes and bakes, fairtrade tea and coffee, make simple tree decorations and there’s a raffle. We look forward to seeing you there between 9.30am – 12noon.
351052
Santa’s Grotto as part of Cary’s Christmas 2025.
Step into Christmas at Needful Things
It's 'fun time' again at Needful Things of Castle Cary. All the everyday fun continues, plus they've layered a magical Christmas display right on top! This enchanting store is even more captivating at this time of year and always worth a browse. Whether you need birthday, wedding, house warming or indeed Christmas gifts you will be spoilt for choice! There are
themed trees and themed garlands aplenty with every conceivable character, animal and even vehicle baubles! Do you like the idea of Tractor Baubles? Trains? Cars? Or why not dress your tree with Vegetables? Mice? or Circus Animals? Why not pop in and peruse the myriad of gifts and decoration ideas? Don't miss all the seasonal essentials too, such as napkins, crackers, wreaths and candles. So much fun in just one, special store!
Muchelney Pottery - all fired up for Christmas, Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th November, 10am - 4pm
Muchelney Pottery’s annual early Christmas shopping event returns again this year to kick start your festive gift buying - the shop and gallery will be brimming with ideas!
They will have unpacked their last kiln firing of the year so the shelves will be full of handmade kitchenware pots for the home and the chef in the family!
There will also be specially paired gift sets and signed studio pottery from Mark Melbourne,
As well as all their freshly fired pots they will be displaying a wide range of beautiful handmade pieces from a variety of selected makers including:
• Chris Kampfmetal garden sculptures
• Jake Leach - leatherwork
• Holly Webb - silver jewellery
• Joanne Horrobincopper and enamel bowls
• Lin Lovekin - willow baskets
• Andrew Spillsburyshaker boxes
• Lorna Fergusonhandwoven scarves
• Hannah Leach - willow stars
Visit Muchelney Pottery for a warming mulled cider and first look at all the wonderful work at Muchelney Pottery, Nr Langport, TA10 0DW. Find out more at www.johnleachpottery.co.uk.
Christmas opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm (excluding bank holidays and Saturday 27th December).
Also find them this Christmas at:
• Christmas Makers Market at Burrow Hill, 29th November. Burrow Farm, Burrow Hill, Martock, TA12 6BU
• Christmas Pop-Up Shop at Teals, 5th & 6th December. Teals, South Cadbury, BA22 7FS
English Wine and Food Pairings
PAIRING wine with food is a delicate balance requiring knowledge, experience, and intuition. The right pairing can create a memorable dining experience complementing the flavours of a dish, while the wrong wine can be overpowering. A good pairing can also help to balance acidity, sweetness, and other characteristics of both the wine and the food.
When it comes to pairing wine with food, there are a few general rules to follow but there are exceptions; it is important to consider the specific flavours and characteristics of both the wine and the food, not forgetting your own personal taste. Trying different combinations can be a fun and rewarding experience, and can help to develop a deeper appreciation of both wine and food.
English wines and winemaking have come a long way in the last 40 years. With increased investment in vineyards and wineries, more experienced winemakers, and better temperatures for grape growing, thanks to global warming, English wine has now firmly earned its place on the world wine map.
English sparkling wine is perhaps the most iconic style of wine produced here, often compared to Champagne. English soils often have similarities to those across the Channel, and we are beginning to triumph with the Champagne grapes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, so it seems fitting to begin my food and wine matching suggestions with our fine English bubbly.
Made using the traditional method, with a second fermentation in the bottle, our sparkling wine is known for its fine bubbles, crisp acidity, and delicate flavours. Such is the quality, of these wines they have gained international recognition and many awards.
The perfect celebratory choice for toasting special occasions, English sparkling wine is a versatile match for a wide range of foods, especially seafood. Its acidity and zingy bubbles also nicely cut through the crunchy batter and flaky fish of traditional fish and chips.
Although English wine shares
similarities with French wine, it also boasts a unique identity setting it apart, hugely benefitting from our growing interest in local and artisanal products. Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing where their food and drink come from, and English wine offers a unique and authentic taste of the English countryside, albeit at a price; the cost of growing grapes and producing wine is much higher here, largely due to labour costs and taxation. Worth noting is that major supermarkets sometimes offer 25% when buying 6 bottles or more.
Whilst we tend to think white wines with fish, red wine with meat, this is not always the case. English bubbly can work particularly well with wellmarbled, fatty cuts of meat like rib eye steak. The bright acidity of a Brut Pinot Noir dominant wine is a classic choice. Blanc de Noirs bubbly is also an excellent match for steak and rich dishes like lamb, while a more delicate rosé bubbly can complement leaner cuts. Serve the meat rare or undercooked to maintain its juiciness, as dryness can make the wine taste harsh. My top pick, that won’t bust the budget, is:
The Wine Society's Exhibition NV English Sparkling Wine, Ridgeway, Sussex, 12%abv., £23.81
Produced from a blend of the three traditional Champagne grape varieties, the balance of fresh green apple and almost-tart acidity, is rounded out by richer brioche and hints of caramelised apple.
Other notable English sparkling wines include:
Nyetimber Classic Cuvée: a highly-regarded awarded winning wine known for its balance.
Chapel Down Brut: and Sparkling Rosé NV are excellent choices for entertaining.
Gusbourne: has several impressive offerings, including Boot Hill Vineyard Blanc De Blancs and vintage 51° N for special occasions.
Hattingley Valley Classic Reserve NV: is a good option for enjoying with canapés.
Roebuck Estates: is known for its Rosé, a good pairing for seafood.
Wyfold Vineyard Rosé Brut 2018: Scored 96/100 and a Gold
medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
Langham Pinot Meunier 2018: An extraordinary award-winning wine from Dorset.
Camel Valley Brut: A renowned Cornish producer known for its fresh fruity style.
As a lover of sparkling wine I fail to understand those who do not share my enthusiasm, but there are plenty of options when it comes to still wines. English wine is produced in a variety of styles, each offering its own unique characteristics and flavours.
English white wine is typically served chilled, and an excellent accompaniment to seafood, salads, and other light dishes. Made using a skilful mix of grapes, including Germanic varieities, we are now masters of the varieties we started growing in the 1950s, including MüllerThurgau, Huxelrebe, Reichensteiner, Scheurebe, Seyval Blanc and Madeleine Angevin.
These floral and fruity wines are excellent drinking with light, aromatic foods.
Bacchus is the darling of the English white wine scene, and along with Pinot Gris gives versatile and refreshing styles of wine, with a range of flavours and aromas. A cross between MüllerThurgau and a Sylvaner-Riesling, Bacchus shares characteristics and food matches with Sauvignon Blanc. Its fragrant, acidic style is a match for the fresh sharpness of goat's cheese, crumbly Lancashire and Wensleydale, as well as sheep’s milk cheeses like Manchego. The grassy, nettle and elderflower character is a dream for dishes like risotto or seared salmon with asparagus, mangetout or runner beans, and good with fragrant Eastern Asian dishes like Thai, Szechuan or Vietnamese, or even a Chinese takeaway.
Camel Valley Dry Bacchus, Cornwall, 2023, 12%abv., £17.75
The ubiquitous Chardonnay has made huge strides in the UK. Known for its versatility and for making some of the most soughtafter still whites. As our climate shifts into warmer gear excellent examples are coming from UK
vineyards. It makes a great food wine complementing fine fish dishes, shellfish, simple roast chicken, and salads.
Albourne Estate Sandstone Ridge Chardonnay, Sussex, 11%abv., £18.95.
Red wine is less common in England, and typically made from Pinot Noir, which is best suited to our cooler climate, in addition to Dornfelder, Rondo, and Pinot Meunier.
Known for its light to medium body, red fruit flavours, and earthy undertones, they pair well with a variety of hearty dishes, including red meat and stews.
Rosé wines offer their own unique characteristics; refreshing and versatile with a delicate pink colour and a wide range of flavours. Typically made using Pinot Noir or other red grape varieties, its light and fruity taste pairs well with foods such as salads, seafood, and light pasta dishes.
Dessert wine, known for its complex flavours, is sweet and indulgent, with notes of honey, apricot, and caramel. Often served as a dessert accompaniment, it pairs well with rich and decadent desserts such as chocolate cake or crème brûlée.
Sparkling Wine:
• Seafood: The acidity and bubbles cut through the richness of seafood.
• Chicken: Blanc de Blancs styles pair well with creamy chicken dishes.
• Pork: Rosé sparkling wines complement pork dishes.
White Wine:
• Seafood: Excellent with delicate fish like Lemon Sole.
• Salads: Their fresh and vibrant taste makes them a good match for salads.
Red Wine:
• Hearty Dishes: Pairs well with red meat, stews, and other rich dishes.
• Roast Turkey: Delicate red wines like Pinot Noir can be a great match for roast turkey.
Rosé Wine:
• Light Pasta: The fruity notes make them a good choice for light pasta dishes.
• Salads: Like white wines, rosé wines are a refreshing match for salads.
• Seafood: Rosé wines can also be paired with seafood.
The website www.theenglish winecollection.co.uk is also worth exploring .
So, you think you know your Pop music, do you ?
By John Osborne
Answers can be found on page 31
1) Who sang 'Where Do Broken Hearts Go' in 1988?
2) What band declared 'Baby, What a Big Surprise' in 1977
3) Name the year in which the Bee Gees had 'Night Fever'.
4) Who was at number 2 in November 2005 with 'You Raise Me Up'?
5) Who had a 'Sledgehammer' in 1986?
6) Phil Collins once declared he wanted to 'Dance Into The … ' what?
7) How did we best know the late Concetta Rosa Maria Franconero?
8) Name the band who sang about 'Elmo James' in 1972.
9) The George Harrison composition 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' appeared on which Beatles album?
10) Name the band who hit number one in 1964 with 'House of the Rising Sun'
Anorak Bonus Question:
Name the female who said 'Breakaway' in 2004, and the band who said 'Break Away' in 1969.
Extra Bonus Question:
What instrument did Brenda Russell claim she was playing in the dark?
Great Quotes in Music (145)
"Just as a blues player can play twenty blues songs in a row but find a way to make each one different... I always want to find different ways to do something" - Joe Satriani
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
November Notice Board
SHEPTON MALLET
TABLE TOP SALE at Pullen & Wainright Court Communal Hall, Shepton Mallet BA4 5RD on Saturday 8th November 2pm5pm. Come and help raise money for the Air Ambulance.
MARSTON MAGNA
Indoor Craft Fayre, Sunday 23rd November at Marston Magna Village Hall BA22 8BY. Sellers From 10am - 2pm. £10 a table. Buyers - From 11am - £1 per person entry. Teas, Coffees and bacon rolls available.Email: bookings.marstonvillagehall@ gmail.com to reserve your table in advance.
info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk, write to The Visitor, P.O Box 5522, Castle Cary, BA9 0BP or telephone: 01963 351256 by 18th November.
ADVERTISE your December event here for only £5 for 20 words, 30p per extra word. Email: Read online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
5,600 home sellers slash asking price within first 30 days of hitting the market
THE latest research from nationwide cash buying company and quick sale specialists, Springbok Properties, has revealed that as many as 5,559 home sellers have slashed their asking prices within 30 days of entering the market, as they struggle to find buyers in an increasingly stagnant market.
Springbok Properties analysed the current market looking at the number of homes to have been listed for sale within the last 30 days and what proportion of these homes have already had their asking price reduced.
The research shows that, across Britain as a whole, 5,559 homes have seen a price reduction within the first 30 days of hitting the market, equivalent to 6.2% of total properties to have been listed for sale in this time period.
England is home to the highest number of reduced-price properties, with 5,258 sellers cutting their asking price within 30 days of entering the market, accounting for 6.4% of all homes listed during this time period. In comparison, 183 reductions have been recorded across Scotland (3.9%) and 158 in Wales (4.1%).
At a city level, Bristol has seen the largest proportion of sellers reduce their asking prices almost
David Calvert/Shutterstock.com.
immediately, with 9.8% of homes entering the market in the last 30 days already seeing a price cut.
Bradford follows at 8.2%, while London ranks third, with 1,225 reductions across the capital, equating to 7.1% of total stockalthough London is home to the highest total number of asking price reduced properties.
Leicester (6.4%), Birmingham (6.3%), and Brighton (6.2%) also rank among the areas seeing the highest proportion of price cuts within 30 days of listing, while Liverpool (2.9%) and Edinburgh (3.3%) have been the least impacted.
Shepherd Ncube, CEO of Springbok Properties, commented:
“Home sellers across the nation are finding it increasingly difficult to secure a sale, as the market grinds to a halt ahead of the Autumn Budget and buyers adopt a wait and see mentality. So it’s no surprise to see such a significant number of properties subject to an asking price reduction within the first 30 days of being listed for sale, as this is a tactic often deployed to entice hesitant buyers when there is little to no interest in a house. However, this simply isn’t proving effective in the current market and, whilst there is hope that the market could pick up once the Autumn Budget has passed and the dust settles, there’s certainly no guarantee.
For those who need to sell sooner rather than later, there are other options. Quick sale and direct cash buying routes can provide an effective alternative, particularly for those already taking a hit on asking price. So whilst they may sell for less than they may have liked, at least they can do so with certainty and to a timeframe of their choosing, allowing them to move before Christmas, if they should so wish.”
November update from Lizzie at Lizzie Price Shading Solutions
The dark evenings and colder nights of winter brings the cost of heating our homes during the coming months to the forefront. We recommend making the most of the daytime sun by keeping blinds open during the day to heat your home naturally but as soon as it begins to get dark close your blinds to keep the heat in. At LPSS we can offer
several options to keep your rooms warmer by insulating your windows with Blinds or Plantation Shutters to reduce heat loss.
If you are looking to extend the use of your outside space, we can provide several all-weather products including folding arm or Pergola Awnings and Verandas with glass or polycarbonate roofs and optional heating and lighting, which can also be used for Covered Walkways. Our Carports are perfect if you are thinking of keeping your car undercover over the winter and providing an area free from rain to unload your
shopping. We also do an extended height version for your Caravan or Motorhome to keep it under cover during the winter months. We will personally deal with you from the initial in-home consultation, where we will identify your needs and provide you with a quotation for the most suitable solution. All products are professionally fitted by us and guaranteed.
Contact us for a free in-home consultation by email enquiries@lizziepriceshading solutions.co.uk or phone 07879 992000.
Damian Hoddinott PLUMBING SERVICES
01963 441232 07971 676111
Family Health with Jenna Evans
NOVEMBER 15th marks the new World Echinacea Day . A celebration of the history and medicinal value of this powerful plant. I know many of you use this herbal helper through the winter months, to help ward off those pesky lurgys, so let's have a little refresher on all things Echinacea.
Autumn! I have also used the Echinacea tincture neat for topical wounds, bites and abscesses (on animals too) and on tooth abscesses or diluted as a throat gargle. Echinacea has also been used for urinary infections, cold sores, skin ulcers candida and cancer support (under guidance from an oncologist).
Echinacea also seems to court the odd bit of controversy! From mixed results in trials, to unfounded warnings & contraindications Echinacea sure gets in the spotlight! Contrary to some of the information out there, Echinacea is very child & pregnancy friendly, it can be used with autoimmune conditions (under the counsel of a professional) and it can be used long term (i.e. all Winter).
Echinaceas are members of the Daisy family. There are three used medicinally (E. purpurea, E. augustifola & E. Pallida) with Echinacea purpurea often being the most valued. The name Echinacea comes from the Greek Ekhinos meaning hedgehog, due the spiny central disk. Also known as coneflowers, sampson and snakeroot (guess why!). Echinacea comes from North America and is a prized medicinal for Native Americans being used by various tribes for coughs, colds, sore throats, headaches, pain relief, chewed for toothache & topically for bites, wounds and boils. In the late 19th & early 20th centuries Eclectic medicine, which made use of many botanical allies grew in the US. The Native Americans shared their plant wisdom with these Eclectics and later in the 1950s with Swiss phytotherapist Alfred Vogel. Grand Chief of the Dakota Indian, Black Elk, taught Alfred Vogel about the properties of E. purpurea. At the end of his stay Black Elk presented his friend with a handful of Echinacea seeds. Alfred Vogel took the precious gift back to Switzerland and began to cultivate the plant, with great success. To this day, the plants used to make A. Vogel Echinaforce products are descended from the seed gifted from Black Elk. Quite the legacy! Echinacea has been the subject of much research and is considered to be immunomodulating, antiviral, antibacterial and antiinflammatory. It is, of course, most well know as the cold and flu herb and a great way to make use of these properties is to use echinacea preventatively through the Winter months, or as the seasons change – I see we have a glut of sniffles now as we slip into
Like all herbs, looking for quality in a product is so important. Herbs should be grown free from pesticides, harvested at optimum times and processed rapidly. Tinctures are my favourites way to use most herbs. They're very versatile for dosing and can also be easily mixed into topical preparations or used neat. And the sign of a good quality Echinacea tincture? The tongue tingle! The high presence of alkylamides, compounds that play a key role in Echinacea’s medicinal value.
The main contraindication is allergy to members of the daisy (asteraceae) family. Minor and rare side effects can include gastric upset, skin rash, itching or insomnia. All in all, Echinacea is a very useful, very safe herb and should be in any good medicine chest.
Hope you join us in store for our Echinacea celebrations –Hannah will no doubt be working on a beautiful window – so do come and check out this 'blooming' wonderful herb!
© Jenna Evans 2025.
•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.
