Amonth ago it was almost the end of May. The meteorologists were telling us it was almost the end of the unseasonable heatwave. And at almost the end of an uneventful day I was preparing for bed. Although it was dark outside there was a lot of activity on the road, for a team of farming contractors was still busy bringing newlycut silage to the neighbouring farm to provide food for the cattle in the winter ahead. It was a stark reminder of how much Visitorland’s agricultural community is challenged by the vagaries of the English climate and relies on the workforce who enable them to cope. Who, apart from farmers and their contractors, would work such long and unsociable hours, often in difficult weather conditions?
Not many do. Farming has become increasingly mechanised over the last 70 years. No longer do many people work in and around the villages, and as local people have moved to the towns to seek jobs, so village properties have increasingly been bought by incomers seeking the supposed idyllic rural lifestyle, albeit sometimes only at weekends or in their occasional holidays. Nowadays barely 5% of Visitor land’s workforce are engaged directly on the land, and many of them receive a pittance for what they produce, a barrage of illinformed criticism of the way they produce it, and a welter of bureaucratic requirements that distract them for producing it. A great many more people provide them with services and supplies and are, to a large extent, dependent on agriculture. Buying local farm produce helps to support rural businesses as well as farmers.
But farm-gate prices are at an all-time low across most sectors. I’m told that milk prices are currently 10p per litre below the cost of production and many dairy farmers are considering giving up. Most of us demand cheap food and pretty countryside and leave it to this beleaguered
minority to come up with the goods. But to sell cheap depends on the ability to buy cheap, so the supermarkets’ buyers squeeze their suppliers until it hurts them so much that they throw in the towel. Government policies and the major retailers have accustomed us to cheap food, to the point where price bears little relationship to the costs of production, and the packaging and transportation account for a sizeable chunk of the price. The smaller retailers, the family businesses and sole traders who were once the lifeblood of Visitor land’s towns and villages, have had little choice but to adapt to the cut-price market place or shut up shop. And the latter is what many have done.
Watching from my bedroom window late on that hot May evening it seemed that most, if not all, of those nocturnal tractor drivers were in their late teens or early twenties, working what by any standards are unsociable hours. What does a future in agriculture hold for them, I wonder.
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Muchelney Pottery welcomes you to their Summer Open Day! Saturday 25th July 2026 10am - 4pm
THE pottery is gearing up for their next open day and there is plenty planned. The July kiln firing will be unpacked on the day with visitors invited to choose pots fresh from the cooling chambers. The kiln shed will gradually be filled with over 1,000 new pots; from mugs, jugs, bowls and plates to signed personal work by Mark Melbourne, Ben Leach and Hannah Leach. You are welcome to wander around
the kiln shed while everything is in full-swing!
Also happening ... Mark Melbourne will be demonstrating on the Leach kick-wheel in the pottery yard, throwing some classic Muchelney Pottery shapes.
Printmaker Paul Cleden will unveil a brand new collection of work inspired by time spent with the pottery crew; studying the shapes and rhythms that make up life at Muchelney Pottery. He will be available on the day to discuss the new prints and will also be demonstrating and offering visitors a chance to have a go on the printing press.
The launch of brand new ‘Potters of the World IGNITE’ tankards - John Leach's greeting
to fellow potters! A display of beautiful disasters – sometimes things go wrong in the kiln but you can be left with quirky, sculptural and rather beautiful outcomes! Food available from the Kind Kitchen Baker – back by popular demand! Dunleavy Vineyards will be offering tastings of their award winning
English wine. Live music in the pottery yard with Hannah Leach. Complimentary noggins available with a qualifying purchase (while stocks last!!) A lovely day of pottery, craftsmanship and Somerset life! Free entry, free parking, dogs welcome on leads. Muchelney Pottery, Nr. Langport, Somerset, TA10 0DW visit www.johnleachpottery.co.uk.
Mark Demonstrating (Sara Gaskins).
Paul Cleden Pottery - unpacking the kiln.
Paul Cleden Pottery Kiln Firing.
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Mulberry Fund passes £76,000 milestone for Somerset communities
More than £76,000 has been invested in Somerset communities through a charitable fund established by global fashion brand Mulberry and managed by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF).
Founded in Chilcompton in 1971, Mulberry created the
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Mulberry Somerset Community Fund in 2021 to give back to the county where the business began.
To date, the Fund has awarded more than £61,000 in grants to local groups, alongside £15,000 to the Somerset Care Leavers Fund , which supports young people aged 18 to 25 as they transition to independence.
The latest boost came in May, when Mulberry selected SCF as its charity partner for customer donations across its stores nationwide. Customer donations raised an additional £2,320 for the Fund, with half of the total matched through Adyen Giving
One local group benefiting from Mulberry’s support is On Your Bike, a charity that helps people build confidence, learn new skills and access affordable transport
through cycling.
A contribution of £2,000 from the Mulberry Somerset Community Fund is supporting a pilot project in Bridgwater near The Willows, their second UK factory, providing low-cost refurbished bicycles and maintenance support to families who would otherwise be unable to access them.
Kristen Pye, Philanthropy and Marketing Director at SCF, said:
“Mulberry is a fantastic example of a global business staying true to its Somerset roots. We were incredibly proud to be chosen as its charity partner during May, bringing Somerset communities to the attention of customers across the UK. Our local knowledge and strong relationships with charitable
groups across the county allow us to help businesses like Mulberry give with purpose and strengthen their Environmental, Social and Governance goals while making a real difference to local communities here in Somerset.”
Rosie Wollacott, Head of Group Sustainability at Mulberry, said:
“Working with SCF connects us with local groups and organisations on the ground who need our support, but who we may never have come across ourselves. The Fund has enabled us to give with purpose and strengthen our focus on projects that champion creativity, craft and mental health, while helping tackle wider challenges facing communities across Somerset”.
Businesses interested in supporting local communities through SCF can find out more at www.somersetcf.org.uk/ business.
New arts funding to raise awareness of dangers facing Dorset’s rivers and chalk streams
Emerald Ant is delighted to announce major funding of £99,918 from National Lottery Heritage Fund for a new Dorset arts project Bubbles and Squeaks engaging communities with the
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plight facing our beautiful rivers and rare chalk streams.
Dorset Council, Dorset National Landscape, Dorchester Town Council and the Fine Family Foundation have also provided funding to collectively support this educational and environmentally significant project.
Emerald Ant will be working alongside environmental partners Dorset Wildlife Trust and their ‘Water for Wildlife’ campaign and will connect a group of West Dorset and Dorchester schools with the crucial but fragile ecology of their local rivers, as they learn about and celebrate their unique biodiversity through creative arts and performance.
Working with the local community, stories around the rivers Cerne, Hooke, Frome and Mangerton Brooke will be brought to life, following on from ecologist-led school visits to the rivers, allowing children to witness and help understand the threats facing these precious waterways first hand.
Schools will work with artists to create a choreographed, musical body of river creatures to be paraded at processional events later this year.
On September 26th there will be a colourful summer procession Mentioned in
Kingfishers, heron, mayfly and crowfoot, trout and salmon, and coming up at the back, a ‘March of the Beavers’, will bear placards encouraging action to protect their collective homes. All are welcome to these free events.
Family arts workshops will take place in central and west Dorset this summer, watch out for posters or follow Emerald Ant on social media. Emerald Ant is well-known for its work across Dorset, with the Glow Badbury event in 2023 at Badbury Rings.
Sarah Butterworth, Emerald Ant’s Creative Director, said:
‘We are proud of the work being done for rivers by our environmental partners, and this project will help spread the word, encourage community discussion and fundamentally be a catalyst for action on a local scale. Thank you to lottery players for supporting this valuable work.’
Come & Sing with Chorale21 - Saturday 18 July
in Cerne Abbas, and on 17th October in Powerstock, an illuminated lantern event bringing in the winter, culminating in a fire sculpture.
Singers from across the county are warmly invited to join members of Chorale21 at their popular Come & Sing event in Cheddar.
This year, Director of Music Matthew Redman will be guiding participants through Vivaldi's joyous Gloria and the first part
A previous Emerald Ant Lantern Procession with School Children. Image: Emerald Ant – emeraldant.com.
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of Bach's cantata, Wachet Auf. As always, the workshop will be accompanied by some excellent cake.
To book, complete the Contact form on the website to receive payment details and reserve free scores. All welcome.
Saturday 18 July, 11.30am to 5pm at Catholic Church Community Hall in Tweentown, Cheddar BS27 3HU ... £20 to include score hire and refreshments. Book your place at: https://chorale21.org.uk/contact.
Somerset gears up for an exciting new photography event at Haynes Motor Museum
London Camera Exchange (LCE) has announced a new flagship photo, video and optical event, the LCE Photo Show 2026, taking place on Saturday 12 September 2026 at the legendary Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford, Somerset.
Following the success of the
Exeter South West Photo Show in 2025, this year’s event moves to a significantly larger venue, offering photography enthusiasts, filmmakers, professional photographers and content creators a more extensive and immersive experience.
Open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, the one-day event will feature top photography, video and optical brands showcasing the latest products alongside live demonstrations, seminars, networking opportunities and exclusive retail offers.
Visitors will be able to: Discover and test the latest cameras, lenses, accessories and video equipment, learn from the experts at talks, seminars and practical masterclasses – many free to attend, access the museum’s famous ‘Red Room’ featuring iconic red automobiles for unique photographic opportunities, view an exhibition of the winning images from the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 competition, network with fellow photography and filmmaking enthusiasts while enjoying refreshments
Clare Harvey-May, head of events at LCE, said:
“Our Photo Show is back for 2026 and will be bigger and even more exciting than before. We’ve
planned an expanded programme of workshops, guest talks and seminars from high-profile photographers, filmmakers and creators. The event is designed to give visitors a unique experience with multiple creative opportunities and a chance to discover and try the latest equipment from major photography brands, learn from industry specialists and enjoy a brilliant day out with fellow enthusiasts – not to mention the fantastic show-only offers and deals.”
The event will include a packed line-up of free-to-attend ticketed expert seminars and round-table discussion groups – plus practical demonstrations covering subjects such as lighting and portraiture, which can be purchased in
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advance. Tickets for selected sessions will be released in stages ahead of the show. Confirmed speakers and technical experts include Gavin Hoey and Amy Shore, with many more to be announced.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to shop exclusive ‘show-only deals’, with all visitors able to redeem the cost of their entry ticket against qualifying purchases with LCE.
Leading photography, video and optical brands are scheduled to attend, giving visitors direct access to brand specialists, demonstrations, workshop sessions and the latest product launches. Exhibitors include Fujifilm, Canon, Nikon, Sony, OM System, Sigma, Tamron and a whole host more.
Early-bird tickets are £5 in advance and regular tickets on the door will be £10. Both include free parking. A discounted annual membership to the museum will also be available to attendees. All visitors can claim the cost of their ticket against a purchase from LCE on the day.
Tickets will be available via the official LCE Photo Show website: https://photoshow.lcegroup.co.uk. Haynes Motor Museum is a fully accessible venue. Please see https://www.haynesmuseum.org /plan-your-visit/accessibility.
For more information, please visit https://www.haynes museum.org/plan-your-visit/findus.
Local accommodation is also available at discounted rates –see website for details.
LCE Photo Show 2026 takes place on 12 September at Haynes Motor Museum.
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Pride of Somerset Youth Awards celebrate record year of inspirational young people The remarkable achievements, courage and community spirit of Somerset’s young people were celebrated in style at the 2026 Pride of Somerset Youth Awards, held at a glittering ceremony at the McMillan Theatre on Thursday 21 May.
Hosted by Passion for Somerset CIC in partnership with UCS College Group, this year’s awards marked the highest number of nominations received in the Awards’ 19-year history, highlighting the extraordinary contribution young people across the county are making to the lives of others and their communities.
The prestigious event was attended by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Mr Mohammed Saddiq, and the High Sheriff of Somerset, Mr Peter Dixon, alongside community leaders, educators, families, supporters and sponsors from across the county. The evening recognised an exceptional group of young people whose
compassion, resilience, leadership and determination have inspired those around them. From overcoming personal adversity to supporting vulnerable people, championing inclusion, fundraising for important causes and making a lasting difference in their schools and local communities, the nominees demonstrated the very best of Somerset’s young generation.
Organisers said the unprecedented number of nominations reflected not only the growing profile of the Awards, but also the incredible depth of talent, kindness and dedication shown by young people throughout Somerset. The ceremony featured emotional tributes and presentations as finalists and winners were recognised for their outstanding achievements.
As the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards approach their 20th anniversary next year, organisers say the continued growth of the Awards demonstrates the importance of celebrating young people whose actions so often go unseen, yet whose impact is profound. The Awards continue to stand as one of the county’s most valued celebrations of youth achievement, recognising those who lead with kindness, courage and determination to make Somerset a better place for everyone.
Award winners group and individual Award winners. Image: Pride of Somerset Youth Awards.
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Somerset vet named BVA Young Vet of the Year 2026
Farm vet Dr Anna Hewison has been named the winner of the prestigious BVA Young Vet of the Year 2026 by the British Veterinary Association (BVA).
Now in its ninth year, the
award, which is supported by Zoetis, celebrates inspirational vets in the first stages of their professional career. The award was presented on Thursday 11 June during the BVA Awards Dinner 2026 at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole alongside the winners of twelve other awards. Farm vet Anna Hewison of Shepton Mallet, Somerset, qualified from the University of Nottingham in 2022 and joined Shepton Vets, Somerset. She demonstrates consistently high standards of care, clinical excellence and genuine commitment to her development, collaboration between farmers, vet techs and her colleagues. Anna runs the practice’s Youngstock Club and has developed it into a more collaborative and effective programme, restructuring the scheme to encourage closer working relationships between vets, technicians, and farmers, ensuring a joined-up approach to youngstock management.
On being named the winner, Anna said: “I cannot believe that I have won this award and feel incredibly honoured. It is especially meaningful given the high standard of nominees. I genuinely love being a farm vet and find it hugely rewarding. I’m extremely grateful to my colleagues at Shepton Vets for their support, encouragement and the knowledge they have shared with me throughout my career so far. They have provided me with fantastic opportunities to learn and develop, and this award is very much a reflection of that. I
would also like to congratulate the other finalists for this award, as well as the finalists and award winner's from the other categories. It is a privilege to be part of such a committed and passionate profession, and I look forward to continuing to learn and make a positive difference for the farmers and animals I work with every day.”
British Veterinary Association
President Dr Rob Williams MRCVS said: “Anna is an outstanding veterinary surgeon, and her clinical excellence and leadership is impressive at such a young age and so early in her career. It’s inspiring how dedicated she is to developing her skills and strengthening relationships and collaboration with farmers, other veterinary professionals and her team. She should be exceptionally proud of her achievements so far and we’re delighted to award her this prestigious title – it’s very well deserved. Well done, Anna.”
The BVA Awards recognise inspirational vets from across the profession who: go above and beyond for their patients and clients; support wellbeing and positive workplace culture; drive positive change across sustainability; deliver inspirational leadership and mentoring; and push the boundaries of veterinary science.
On the awards, British Veterinary Association President Dr Rob Williams MRCVS said: “The BVA Awards shine a light on the vital contribution vets and vet teams make in their communities and society at large; celebrating those who go the extra mile, who are outstanding in their fields; who show compassion and support for their colleagues; and make significant contributions to the health of both animals and people. We're so proud to be able to recognise their achievements and dedication and wish sincere congratulations to all our 2026 award winners.”
BVA Young Vet of the Year Anna Hewison.
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Montacute House takes starring role in new Richard E. Grant film Savage House
The National Trust’s Montacute House is set to captivate cinema audiences nationwide as it takes centre stage in Savage House, a darkly satirical new period drama starring Richard E. Grant and Claire Foy.
Filmed on location at the iconic Somerset estate, the production shines a spotlight on one of the region’s most recognisable historic houses, blending its striking Elizabethan architecture with a bold and irreverent story of ambition, power, and excess.
Released in UK cinemas on 5 June, Savage House is set against the backdrop of 18th-century England, a massive pox outbreak, and Jacobite uprising – a timely and darkly satirical story of Sir Chauncey Savage (Richard E. Grant) and Lady Savage’s (Claire Foy) blind pursuit of a better life. It is not without a tinge of irony that their family name is the
Savages, for this is a Savage House indeed. Filled with duels, decadence, and bloodshed, this is a madcap play on class and power.
Themes of ambition and influence are not new to Montacute House. Completed in 1601 for Sir Edward Phelips, the house reflects his rise to prominence as a successful lawyer and Speaker of the House of Commons under King James I. Designed to impress, Montacute remains one of England’s finest examples of Elizabethan architecture.
Today, Montacute House is a Grade I listed property in the care of the National Trust. Filming at
such a significant historic site presents unique challenges, requiring careful planning and close collaboration. Producer Oliver Roskill recognised the importance of protecting the property, with discussions between the production team and the National Trust beginning long before cast and crew arrived on site.
Gareth Parker, Property Operations Manager at Montacute House, played a key role in overseeing filming and ensuring the protection of the buildings and grounds. He was involved throughout the process, and said: “Welcoming a large filming
team to a historic property is always a considerable logistical undertaking. Whilst they are on site, we have staff members, including specialist conservators, invigilating proceedings and advising on what can and cannot be done.”
He continued: “One of the most memorable things from the filming of Savage House was working around an enormous heap of manure and rubbish just outside the door to the Old Kitchen. It looked so realistic that we expected to be able to smell it.”
Montacute House is no stranger to the big screen. Over the years it has doubled as Cleveland, the Palmers’ residence, in the 1995 adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, and has featured in productions including The Libertine, Wolf Hall, and The Mirror & the Light . In Savage House, the property once again transforms, providing a richly atmospheric backdrop for this bold new film. Through productions like these, Montacute reaches audiences far beyond Somerset, helping more people encounter and engage with historic places through popular culture, and inspiring new connections with the stories they hold.
The Langport & District History Society is delighted to announce a new exhibition of images relating to Langport’s most illustrious citizen, Walter Bagehot (1826-1877).
It will take place on the weekend of 4-5 July in the Stuckey Room at Great Bow Wharf, the building that was the headquarters of the Stuckey & Bagehot shipping business.
On display will be the original
artwork for the History Society’s new book: Walter Bagehot: life and legacy . Local artist, Mike Sammons, created a series of original and engaging illustrations of aspects of Bagehot’s life which enhance the text and complement the other images in the book. A former teacher at Huish Episcopi Academy, he runs a weekly art group in Langport. He usually paints landscapes and portraits, but this brief proved an ‘irresistible challenge.’
There will also be a showreel of other images about Bagehot, his family, life and work, and his own personal travelling briefcase will be available to view.
The History Society’s chair, Janet Seaton, recommended the exhibition:
“As the song says, a picture paints a thousand words.
Whether or not you’ve heard of Walter Bagehot, this exhibition is a rare opportunity to get to know him and his life through illustrations. It’s an easy way to learn more about a local celebrity whose reputation is built on words.”
For more information about Bagehot, visit the Walter Bagehot section of the History Society’s website https://langportheritage .org.uk/walter-bagehot.
Knoll Gardens Foundation is helping communities flourish Over the last few years, the Knoll Gardens Foundation has had the privilege of supporting local charities and schools on bespoke gardening projects, offering special access days, and opening its gates to local groups.
Working on a project with Wimborne Community Garden, Knoll Gardens Neil Lucas shared his expertise advising on naturalistic plantings, and the Foundation donated a selection of grasses and perennials from the nursery at Knoll to help realise a newly planned sensory garden for all to enjoy.
Jane Benson, Wimborne Community Garden Manager said:
“Within the Wimborne Community Garden we have a wonderful sensory garden which blossomed into life due to the exciting collaboration between two of our very talented designer volunteers and Neil Lucas, who so generously came and shared his ideas and enthusiasm. Not only that, but Knoll Gardens also then donated numerous, glorious, billowing grasses to the design and as the year has progressed, the sensory garden has flourished and brought joy to countless visitors and garden users.”
And the legacy will continue, not only in the form of the garden but as the collaboration inspired Wimborne Community Garden to enter a Gardeners’ World competition at Beaulieu in May.
In another community collaboration in 2025, children from Beaucroft Foundation School in Colehill visited Knoll Gardens on a special access day.
Images of Bagehot Exhibition at Great Bow Wharf, Langport 4-5 July.
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Having the gardens completely to themselves, they were able to safely explore and enjoy a rare sense of freedom, crucial for both students and staff. The naturalistic plantings at Knoll offered the perfect setting to draw the students in, with soft, sweeping paths for them to follow, round generous beds of taller grasses and flowering perennials, all positively humming with wildlife.
Knoll Gardens Foundation would like to extend its invitation wider to charitable and educational organisations and voluntary community or environmental groups from across the UK, who would benefit from an exclusive visit to the gardens, and be interested in learning more about Knoll’s approach to naturalistic gardening. Free of charge, the visits can take place on Monday or Tuesday when the gardens are closed to the public.
The Foundation is also delighted to continue offering the
opportunity for invited local groups and clubs to enjoy the gardens free of charge on Fridays in the summer. To date clubs with varied interests from creative writing and art to photography and gardening have been inspired by the gardens’ wildlife-friendly naturalistic planting and the textures, form and colour they offer.
Conservation or nature-based groups who would enjoy exploring the wildlife-rich plantings at Knoll, or community and social groups who would benefit from time in the peaceful gardens, are welcome to come forward to express interest.
Further information about these visits including how to register interest, together with
details of the Foundation and its work can be found at: https://www.knollgardens.co.uk/ foundation.
Sunset shopping and latenight dining: Clarks Village unveils extended opening hours and free evening parking
Clarks Village is transforming into the ultimate evening destination as it rolls out extended opening hours for shopping and dining.
To make evening visits even more inviting, free parking is also available at Clarks Village after 6pm.
With a stunning outdoor setting including landscaped gardens and wide paved malls, Clarks Village is located in Street in the heart of Somerset and is home to more than 90 brands offering up to 60% off RRP, from designer names to high street favourites alongside delicious dining destinations.
The new extended opening hours will see Clarks Village’s retail brands open from 9am-7pm on Monday to Saturdays, open an extra hour until 8pm on Thursdays. Sunday hours will be from 10am-5pm.
For evening dining, Clarks Village’s restaurants will stay open until at least 9pm – opening as late as 10pm on weekdays and 11pm at weekends. The new hours for retail brands will begin on Monday 20th July.
Group at Knoll Gardens. Image: Dave Peckham - davepeckham.co.uk.
Enjoying Knoll Gardens - visiting art group. Image: Dave Peckham - davepeckham.co.uk.
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Messums West continues Art Talk Series
Root & Branch:
The Art of the TreeThursday 9th July, 6pm to 7pm
This second art talk for Messums West by Sara Radice will explore the trees themselves in art, all set appropriately under the backdrop of the Forest Cathedral installation in the tithe barn. Not just the poetic trees of sylvan groves evoked by the Renaissance artists of the Veneto, but also wildernesses, woodlands and ordinary trees in the copses and orchards of the pre-industrial world.
While some artists turned to the Greek and Roman poets to paint the bucolic landscapes of their verses, others depicted a more realistic agricultural one, where the harmonious relationship between humans and nature is explored and farming championed as a practical and even patriotic endeavour.
Since ancient times, people have imbued trees with mythical or spiritual qualities and seen their roots and trunks as a bridge between the physical and the metaphysical. Poets and artists from Homer to Heaney have used trees as symbols to equate the fleeting lives of humans with the cycle of the seasons. Sixteenth
century colonisation inspired some artists to identify the exotic imports with the trees in the Garden of Eden of their imagination; a few, such as Leonardo, scientifically observed trees - his delicate red chalk drawings capture the very light shining through leaves - while Bruegel’s peasants pollarding
trees in February make one shiver. Early medieval artists let their imagination fly with the abstracted forms of their trees and medieval theologians saw a symbol for Christianity in every natural form.
Johnny Messum added: “Supporting access to learning through the objects history has
The Second in a series of talks by art historian, Sara Radice, taking place in the Tithe Barn at Messums West, Tisbury on 9th July. Tickets are £15 adult, £8 child. Suitable for children aged over 12 years.
created is a core part of our programming, Sara is a remarkable conveyer of those insights and understandings, and I am pleased that she is finding a home amongst our audience.”
The lecture will be accessible to adults and children, Sara said: “I hope this lecture will appeal to everyone who has an interest in looking at beautiful things and the way that since ancient times, nature has been used to convey ideas that are at the heart of all cultures. The more you think about the woodland stories and works of art, and the trees themselves, the more relevant to our own times they become.”
For further information on the Forest Cathedral installation, please visit the website: www.messums.org/exhibitions/ installation-forest-cathedral.
Secret Postcard Sale returns after eight years to raise funds for Wardour Primary School in Wiltshire
Art lovers, collectors and curious bargain hunters are being invited to take part in a unique fundraising event this summer, with the chance to purchase an original artwork by a celebrated artist or celebrity for just £50. The Secret Postcard Sale, taking place at Messums West in Tisbury
on Saturday 18th July 2026, will feature more than 500 original postcard-sized artworks donated by renowned artists, celebrities, parents, friends and pupils of Wardour Primary School.
Among the contributors are acclaimed landscape painter Tim Scott Bolton, artist Ollie AkersDouglas, painter Hugo Grenville and respected Wiltshire artist Tom Hoar, with further celebrity contributors expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Returning for the first time since 2018, the Secret Postcard Sale is expected to attract art lovers and supporters from across Wiltshire and beyond. The twist? Every artwork will be exhibited anonymously, with signatures hidden on the reverse until after purchase. Visitors won't know whether they have secured a piece by a celebrated artist, a well-known personality or a talented local pupil until they turn it over.
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August Issue Deadline: 20th July
Ward & Sibley of Yeovil, for bespoke
Excitng news at Castle House Nursing Home, we are now an awardwinning home of 54 rooms, including 3 double rooms, afer the completon of our 9bed extension, and internal garden courtyard. We are a family run home, located in the friendly village of Keinton Mandeville. Set in six glorious acres of Somerset countryside, 10 minutes from the A303, and major travel links.
Jo Marshall, (UK Care Home Manager of the year 2017), is an onsite Manager, who runs this familyowned Nursing Home, with her exceptonal team offering a variety of quality services and actvites, this being recognised in our last two inspectons from the Care Quality Commission, where we achieved an “Outstanding” ratng.
Our relatonships with the local GPs and their surgeries have been built throughout the years, facilita t ng seamless, person centred coordinated care. We offer 24hour nursing care, with a high staff to resident rato, this enables us to support our residents and their families to con t nue the ne xt chapt er of their lives in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, supportng you to focus on your relatonships.
Our aim at Castle House is to provide your loved ones with person centred care, in our modern and elegant living space comprising of a cheerful lounge where a multtude of daily actvites take place, a peaceful garden room, spacious dining room, quiet areas throughout the home, 46 En suite rooms, 18 of which have large wet room facilites, three jacuzzi bathrooms, balconies with spectacular views overlooking the gardens and paddocks.
Fresh home cooked meals are served from our 5 Star kitchen 24 hours a day and our menus reflect the choices made by our residents, as does the wellstocked bar. Residents can enjoy our purposebuilt Beauty Therapy Suite, where top to toe therapies are offered in a tranquil environment.
As a home we encourage residents, to personalise their rooms, if they wish to do so keeping their surroundings familiar and feeling like home. Wi fi is a v ailable throughout the home, we also have several iPads and tablets, enabling families and residents to keep in touch, using modern technology.
Choosing the right home can be overwhelming, therefore, we invite you to come and meet us, take a tour through the home and gardens, whilst we talk through your individual requirements, creatng a unique care plan together.
So, you think you know your Pop music, do you ?
By John Osborne
Answers can be found on page 31
1) 'The Show Must Go On' a 1991 hit for which superstar band?
2) Name the rock band who had 'Higher Power' in 2021.
3) Which band had a 'Dreadlock Holiday' in 1978?
4) 'Reach Out, I'll Be There'. A 1966 number one for whom?
5) Which band said 'I Don't Want A Lover', 25 years ago in July 2001?
6) In 1982, The Jam sang about 'A Town called … ' what?
7) 'The Show Must Go On' – a solo hit for which male in 1973?
8) Lyric: 'Father Mackenzie, writing the words of a sermon that no-one will hear'
9) In July 1964, The Beatles released a single which was also the title of their first film. Name it.
10) Name the solo artist who had 'Candy' in 2012.
Bonus Question:
Who was born 'Cherilyn Sarkisian' in El Centro, California, on May 20, 1946?
Extra Bonus Question:
Will Champion is best known for being drummer of which band? (Clue: it was with one of the answers in this quiz!)
Great Quotes in Music (153)
"Be your own artist, and always be confident in what you're doing." — Aretha Franklin
Summer dating with Alison at Just Somerset Introductions
Hello everyone, hope you’re all well. Another month has flown by and it’s mid-summer! We’ve had a heatwave and some muchneeded rain. Summer is a very good time to get out and about meet new people, make new friends and for those that are single - maybe begin a new relationship!
With the amount of romance scams increasing, go careful online - there are many ‘red flags’ to look out for. If it seems a bit too good to be true and they start asking for money, usually in the way of gift cards first (as with many other scams) do block and report to the dating site.
Just Somerset Introductions offer a more personal and confidential service, personally interviewing and checking everyones ID. We cover all age groups, younger members are welcome too. We offer regular socials across the group with all types of social events from a simple coffee meet to pub lunches, nature reserves & walks, theatre trips, NT visits, houses and gardens, and NGS, just to name a few and we’re always open for ideas – we try to find a variety of
things to do at a reasonable cost. Head over to our website www. justintroductionsgroup.co.uk for more information and also member testimonials - we hope to hear from you soon! What are you waiting for? What price is happiness! Have a great summer!
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 Answers to June Sudoku on page 31
Sudoku
The Bigger Picture
With Bridget Sudworth
The blue tit parents have chirruped and chirped at us when we got in the way of their flight passage across our path (their path?), presented us with their little fledglings on our terrace which caused me to be very petulant as to why we should go through the potential drama of seeing these helpless, vulnerable babies captured by the neighbour's cat (they weren’t, thank goodness), and now all is silent outside the study window as they are fully fledged. This morning, they called a greeting from the top of the old peach tree but flew off to explore other gardens. We miss them but are very thankful that the hard work was worth it.
The Orkney Islands did not disappoint. In between the cruise crowds, there was still space and time for reflection on the totally awesome history of what has befallen this apparently remote archipelago. In times gone by, it was the centre of the universe leaving behind so many unanswered questions as to how prehistoric mankind functioned with so many obvious limitations. There is evidence of human occupation dating back to 11,000 BC while more settled communities began building proper houses in the Neolithic
period which gave rise to coastal villages like Scara Brae, covered by sand for millennia but revealed after a mighty storm blew the lid off in 1850. Many things have changed compared with our previous visit in 1977, inevitably, as now, instead of just driving up to the village one has to go through a Visitor Centre, paying of course, and then file round the site on a one-way basis without gaining access to each little dwelling. There are compensations as imagination is not required to quite the same degree but subsequent information and increased knowledge does enrich the viewings including a reconstruction of one house which one can go into.
We also experienced days of greatly contrasting weather from brilliant sunshine reflecting light from the endless amount of water everywhere then finding ourselves scarcely able to stand in a violent wind that swept across Mainland with ferocity, followed by torrential rain on another day. Bus rides were fun, sociable and cheap - all fares £2 wherever the bus could take you.
The Italian Chapel was inspirational and deeply moving. It was built during WW2 by Italian POWs who had been sent to the Orkneys to build the Churchill Barriers in Scapa Flow
but who, among the other facilities at the camp, lacked a church. A happy combination of enlightened camp commandants, very talented Italians among the POWs and two Nissen huts end to end gave rise to this extraordinary little building of great beauty.
A wee footnote about Nissen
huts. They were designed by Maj. Peter Norman Nissen during WW1 for military use being simple to construct consisting of corrugated iron stretched over a steel and wooden frame and used extensively during both wars. The Chapel immediately brought to mind a not so dissimilar monument much closer to home, namely the statue of Romulus and Remus with SheWolf standing on Pen Hill above Wells on the A39, also built by a former Italian POW in 1946, by then locally employed, and now listed Grade 2.
Italian Chapel.
Italian Monument above Wells.
Street in Stromness.
History may argue with me but there are many stories of POWs of all nationalities who actually benefitted by being ‘imprisoned’ here and treated with sufficient respect and compassion to be able to live relatively decently while war still raged abroad. My aunt had a whole contingent of them living and working on her farm in Bodiam; they loved their work
in the dairy and the hop fields and several stayed behind marrying local girls. Those who returned home were in touch long afterwards having fallen in love with my comfortable, bustling aunt, that beautiful corner of the Kent/Sussex border and grateful for the kindness and friendship shown to them. These are the good aspects of war.
On a more prosaic level, the current down-turn in property sales may have an impact on the fervent housebuilding that is going on all over the land and certainly, not least in our own nearby market town. Prices have been exponential of late but reality can be brutal in the market place and many, often over priced houses have either had to sit there indefinitely, be drastically price-slashed or taken off the market altogether. Gone are the days of buying and selling profiting on each transaction and a great deal of foreign money invested in property is no longer forthcoming given the upset in the money markets due to war and political legislation that acts as a huge restraint.
One wonders if the time is ripe for the resurgence of prefabs which littered residential urban areas after the war when so much housing was lost due to bombing. To some extent, ‘park homes’ fit the bill and several sites have popped up round us that seem to be immediately occupied. Mindful of Nissen huts, they arrive on site more or less ready to go and are a great deal better made than the prefabs of old which were only intended for occupation for about 10 years. However, there are sites in Bristol, for example, where prefabs are still occupied and even some that have been listed.
The craze for prefabs really burgeoned post WW2 and many construction companies jumped on the bad wagon to produce different styles built in various ways using some materials that
were definitely not designed for longevity, being poorly insulated and including rust-prone metal elements that determined whether or not they remained standing after a short period of time.
It would appear that many managed to provide greater internal space than some of the new houses being built today and needless to say, each one was erected on much larger plots than the paltry dustbin patches offered today, a sobering reminder that land is at a premium now.
Heavy rain has bowed the branches of roses in the garden and the glory of blooms are scattered after such a soaking. But we certainly needed it, the ground being dry and cracked.
Currently, the young, still fragile runner beans are in and out of the GH on a daily basisquite a chore but necessary to spare them for greater things. A squirrel made the fatal mistake of getting inside the squirrel-proof bird feeder; it ended up as rat fodder in the old orchard.
Wilfred has to jump over wet clumps of grass at the moment and comes home with damp fur but he is glad, as are we, that those high temps have abated for the time being. Flopping down in the grass for a rest during a walk on a hot day can get a little bit annoying when it happens too often, though he did enjoy a trip to the seaside the other day and especially loved a mouthful of sausage from the delicious butties that were a post-swim reward for his humans!
Image: Philip Bird LRPS CPAGB / Shutterstock.com.
Ghislane de Feligande before the rain.
SSummer reading for food and wine lovers till attempting to down-size by a massive 75%, my biggest burden has been the thousands of food and wine books accumulated over more than 50 years.
The process has been painful, despite telling myself they are only possessions. In addition to cooking for a living, reading about food and wine remains a passion. I can plough through several tomes a week; factual reference, history, biographies, travel, fiction.
Gearing up for summer holidays, what to read? Nowadays a Kindle seems to be the preferred option, but I relish turning the pages of a physical book. I rarely buy new books, and used paperbacks, which can be had for a few pounds (cheaper than a magazine!) are light, take up less luggage space, and once read, leaving them behind gives room for souvenirs on the return journey!
This selection of books should keep you going all summer!
Appetite; A Memoir in Recipes of Family and Food - Ed Balls
Despite being a lifelong Conservative, I really warmed to Ed in this collection of his memories of favourite meals. Each chapter is a recipe that tells a story. From the moment Ed tried his first meal of pureed roast beef and Yorkshire pudding at three weeks old, he was hooked. Taught to cook by his mother, he passes her wisdom on, taking us on a journey from his grandma's shepherd's pie to ordering orange juice as a starter on his first restaurant trip in the 1970s.
Monsieur PamplemousseMichael Bond (series of 16 books) When in the mood for a lighthearted, quick, easy-reading culinary mystery, this series, by the author of Paddington, is quite my favourite.
Aristide Pamplemousse is a former French Sûreté detective turned restaurant critic for a prestigious culinary guide. Supported by his intelligent bloodhound, Pommes Frites, the books combine food appreciation with farcical comedy and amateur sleuthing.
Eating People Is Wrong
- Malcolm Bradbury
A witty satirical novel where meals, dinner parties, and social rituals expose class anxieties and British intellectual life.
Forty-year-old university professor Stuart Treece is set in his ways, and exposed to the changing attitudes of the ’50s, his efforts to acclimatise are undermined, revealing awkward wines, formal dinners and uncomfortable conversations.
Palmento: A Sicilian Wine Odyssey (At Table)
- Robert V. Camuto
In this account of winemakers and interesting characters, the author takes you on a tour of the island’s best wine producers, and into the anti-Mafia movement growing in the former mob vineyards around infamous Corleone, whilst introducing us to film and music celebrities drawn to Sicily.
Sweetbitter
- Stephanie Danler
Revolving around the elite London and New York food and wine, and the world of high-end restaurant life, this novel follows a 22-year-old, as she discovers her palate and vocabulary for fine wine.
An Innkeeper’s Diary
- John Fothergill
As an innkeeper (proprietor of the Spreadeagle at Thame in the 1920s) Fothergill was notably irascible and there are shades of Basil Fawlty in his attitude to some of his clientele.
These recollections run from 1922 to 1930, separated by year rather than by day, are full of amusing anecdotes.
Undoubtedly snobbish, there are stories of him adding to the bill if he didn’t like or approve of someone.
Murder Most Delectable
- edited by Martin H Greenberg
What sets this collection of short crime stories apart is the inclusion of a recipe pertinent to each plot.
The anthology explores diverse mystery scenarios by noted authors, including Ruth Rendell, where food and drink play a central role in the narrative, making it a perfect read for fans of both culinary writing and traditional mystery fiction.
Hugh Johnson - A Life Uncorked
Full of candour and wit, a great read from a renowned author, and an excellent place to explore different wines and wine regions. Based on his experience of the pleasures of wine, he talks about some of the world’s best winemakers, providing inside tips on the main wine regions.
Wine and War: The French, the Nazis and France's Greatest Treasure - D & P Kladstrup
The story of how the French saved their wine from the Germans during World War II.
A fascinating read, this nonfiction historical book shows you how winemakers denied access to their best wines.
The Debt to Pleasure
- John Lanchester
Perfect for fans of dry, intellectual satire, this darkly comedic tale follows Tarquin Winot, a snobbish, unhinged food obsessed hedonist travelling from Portsmouth to Provence. Structured by season, the novel masquerades as a gourmet memoir, discussing fine food, wine pairings and elaborate recipes, while revealing something more sinister.
The Lost Vintage - Ann Mah Wine lovers will enjoy this mystery set in the vineyards of Burgundy. The ultimate combination of wine lore, history, and romance, the story follows an aspiring Master of Wine who uncovers a hidden room in her family's cellar, unravelling a dark WWII history of the French Resistance.
The Emperor of Wine
- Elin McCoy
Depicting the rise and reign of the controversial wine critic, Robert Parker. Dominating the international wine world for three decades, he caused a revolution in the way wines are made, sold and discussed. With an unshakeable ego and a maniacal obsession with wine, this American lawyer raised on Coca–Cola rose to power by hard work, determination, and integrity. The book tackles questions about him, revealing how he became both worshipped and despised.
Shadows in the Vineyard:
The True Story of the Plot to Poison the World’s Greatest Wine
- Maxmillian Potter
Based on a true story with a twist, this gives an account of the plot to destroy the vines of Domaine de la Romanée Conti.
In response to an anonymous threat received by the proprietor, Aubert de Villaine, demanding a one million euro ransom, the author went to Burgundy to report for Vanity Fair.
We enter a captivating world full of intriguing characters, small town French politics, and a local culture of excess and deep reverence for the land.
Woman of Taste
- Pamela Vandyke Price
An autobiography detailing her 30-year career as a pioneering female wine writer in Britain. The memoir recounts how she entered the wine industry almost by chance following a personal tragedy.
Noted for its ‘acerbic’ and ‘scathing’ wit, she provides personal memories of the dominant, often eccentric figures who shaped the wine trade.
Confessions of a Wine Lover
- Jancis Robinson
We are taken on a sensuous journey through the people, places, and the bottles to which Jancis Robinson has been exposed during her years of wine writing, experiencing the world's finest cellars.
This entertaining read takes us on arduous tours of beautiful vineyards and sumptuous restaurants from Seattle to Sydney.
Travelling Light
- Alastair Sawday
Looking back on his adventures, Sawday has long campaigned against the anonymity of hotel chains.
Keenly advocating small-scale enterprises and environmental responsibility, his affections lay with open-minded travellers and owners of gently decaying farmhouses and chateaux, where the arrival of paying guests makes all the difference to survival.
With L.P-V
Six hidden issues that could make your home unmortgageable
THE latest market insight from House Buyer Bureau has revealed six common issues that could see a homeowner’s property deemed unmortgageable by lenders, drastically reducing the pool of potential buyers and making it far harder to sell on the open market. House Buyer Bureau analysed some of the most common reasons properties fail lender criteria, alongside the potential impact these issues can have on property value based on current market estimates and the latest UK average house price data.
Whilst the reasons a property may be considered unmortgageable can vary, they typically fall into three broad categories: structural problems, legal complications, and environmental or location-based risks.
Any issue that significantly increases the level of risk to either the buyer or lender can result in a mortgage application
being refused, severely limiting the pool of potential buyers and, in many cases, forcing sellers to accept a substantial reduction in price.
Short
lease properties
One of the most common issues facing homeowners is a short lease. Leasehold properties with fewer than 70 to 80 years remaining can struggle to secure mortgage approval, as lenders become increasingly cautious about the diminishing value of the lease over time.
House Buyer Bureau estimates that this can reduce a property’s value by around 15%, equivalent to £41,832 based on the current average UK house price.
Defective
titles
Poor historic conveyancing work, unresolved Land Registry discrepancies, or uncertainty surrounding ownership rights can all create significant legal complications for lenders. Depending on severity, these issues can reduce value by an estimated 12.5%, or £34,860.
Structural issues
Structural problems remain one of the biggest red flags for lenders. Severe damp, subsidence, or major structural movement can render a property unsuitable security for a mortgage provider.
House Buyer Bureau estimates that structural issues can reduce value by at least 20%, or £55,776 on average.
Non-standard construction
Properties built using nonstandard construction methods can also struggle to secure finance.
Homes constructed using concrete, timber framing, steel systems or other unconventional
materials are often viewed as higher risk due to concerns surrounding durability, maintenance, and resale value. In some cases, values can be impacted by as much as 30%, equivalent to £83,664.
Environmental hazards
Environmental hazards are another growing issue within the market. Properties located in flood-risk areas or affected by issues such as Japanese knotweed can become significantly harder to mortgage. House Buyer Bureau estimates that environmental hazards can reduce property value by around 10%, or £27,888.
Spray foam insulation
Spray foam insulation is becoming an increasingly serious issue for homeowners attempting to sell. Many lenders are now refusing mortgages on properties fitted with spray foam insulation within the roof space due to concerns surrounding ventilation, hidden timber damage, and difficulties assessing the roof structure.
In some cases, homeowners are being forced to pay for costly removal work before a sale can proceed and it’s thought the issue has impacted some 250,000 homes to date.
Managing Director of House Buyer Bureau, Chris Hodgkinson, commented:
“One of the biggest shocks for many sellers is discovering that an issue they may have lived with for years suddenly becomes a major problem once a buyer’s lender gets involved.
“In the current market, lenders are being increasingly cautious, and anything that raises
questions around value, structural integrity, legal ownership or future resale potential can quickly derail a sale.
“What makes these situations particularly difficult is that many sellers only become aware of the issue once they’ve already accepted an offer and progressed deep into the transaction process.
“At that stage, they’re often left facing significant delays, costly remedial work, renegotiations, or the collapse of the sale altogether.
“In many cases, unmortgageable properties don’t lack value altogether, they simply fall outside of traditional lender appetite. However, it does drastically reduce the pool of available buyers and can leave homeowners struggling to sell through conventional routes.
“As a result, we continue to see strong demand from sellers looking for a faster and more certain route to sale, particularly those dealing with properties that may prove problematic on the open market.”
Planning permission for latest phase of major Wiltshire development
The housebuilder behind the Jubilee Gardens scheme in Warminster has secured planning consent to deliver its fourth phase.
Persimmon Homes Wessex will now be able to start construction on delivering the 266 new homes. It brings the approved number of dwellings on the site to 772, helping to meet the town’s housing need. Persimmon’s sister brand, Charles Church, will also have a presence on the phase.
Plans for Phase Four include 61 properties for a local housing association. The expected total figure once the site is delivered in its entirety, including the expected future phases, is 300 such homes. This, as well as the market homes, will help local people as it alleviates housing pressure in the area.
The application’s green light paves the way for a large area of public open space, which completes the linear park that was envisioned earlier in the planning process. The site will also host a range of ecological features such as bird and bat boxes.
The entire development from
the accredited five-star housebuilder will trigger millions of pounds of investment into the community, but this phase alone is expected to generate a significant Community Infrastructure Levy payment.
Jubilee Gardens will also host sports pitches, changing facilities, allotments, and ecology areas once complete. Three, and fourbed homes can already be purchased at the west Warminster site, with prices starting at £316,995. More twobed homes will come onto the market soon.
Commenting, Persimmon Homes Wessex Managing Director Seb Spiller, said:
“I am pleased that Persimmon has secured its latest planning approval in Warminster, demonstrating our commitment to working with the community to deliver low-cost, high-quality, much-needed homes in the town.
“Creating a sense of place as part of our mission to deliver a positive and lasting legacy is important to Persimmon, and we are evidently bringing that to Jubilee Gardens, not just through new housing, but the supporting infrastructure that goes with it.
“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved on-site already and are proud to have hosted many stakeholders there over the years, so we are very excited to break ground on the next phase as we work with Wiltshire Council to meet our mutual goals.”
AUGUST DEADLINE: 20TH JULY
Persimmon Homes Wessex have secured planning consent for the fourth phase of it’s Jubilee Gardens scheme.
As property market picks up, expert says one home upgrade can add up to 5% in value
The UK property market may be improving with April seeing a 6% uplift on homes on the market, but a busier market also means more competition, with data showing over a third (35.8%) of sellers still forced to reduce their asking price before securing a buyer. With buyers having more properties to choose from, an interior trend expert reveals the upgrades that can help homes stand out and sell faster.
“The difference comes down to how the home looks and feels the moment a buyer walks through the door. And nothing shapes that first impression more than what's underfoot,” comments Alex Heslop, trend expert at Flooring Superstore.
“The floor is the first thing that buyers notice when they step into a home. Often, the decision is made within seconds of stepping inside and in a market where every listing is competing harder than ever, worn carpets, scratched surfaces or outdated styles can make a property feel older, while newer modern finishes can instantly modernise a space and make it feel move-in ready.
"Research suggests that upgrading flooring can add as much as 5% to a property's value, making it one of the most important changes homeowners can make before listing. Buyers want homes that feel ready to move into, and fresh flooring can help create that impression instantly. But there’s a number of key trends to consider before improving your home ready for sale.
“We’re seeing a shift away from cool greys and whitewashed wooden flooring toward warmer tones. In wood and wood-effect floors, warm oaks, soft taupes,
and caramel hues are growing in popularity and are fantastic at creating inviting and cosy spaces. Grey tones will still have a place in flooring design in 2026, but these shades are particularly effective when showcased through stone or porcelain tiles in subtle limestone or marble effects.
“Once reserved for period properties and high-end renovations, herringbone and chevron are now within reach at every price point, and they signal quality in a way that buyers respond to instantly. LVT offers a durable and hard wearing option that can handle the spills in kitchens and bathrooms due to its additional waterproof qualities that solid wood doesn’t offer.
“Buyers in 2026 want warmth and texture underfoot in sleeping spaces. There’s no better way to add soft and comforting textures into your decor than with a highquality carpet. An earthy toned, neutral loop pile carpet that brings subtle depth to a minimalist space and perfectly complements natural woods, stone and soft whites, blending seamlessly into your décor and making it a perfect choice for living rooms and bedrooms.
“Mismatched floors make spaces feel smaller and more fragmented. Open-plan layouts create a consistent look in your home which works across every room. Your property will feel more expansive and connected, increasing its perceived value. Having the same flooring throughout your house will give a feeling of cohesiveness and create a sense of space.
“Squeaking boards, lifting edges, worn patches are all problems that buyers will see and then start negotiating. A targeted fix before going to market can protect thousands off the asking price and can often be tackled by any competent DIYer.”
Coastal house prices fall by as much as 38%, but seaside hotspots still command premiums of up to 76%
The latest research by Yopa has revealed that house prices across some of the nation’s most popular seaside hotspots have fallen by as much as -38% over the last year. However, many continue to command substantial premiums, with buyers paying as much as 76% more than the wider local authority average in order to secure a home by the sea.
Yopa analysed current house prices across popular coastal postcodes, how they have changed over the last year, and how they compare to average property values across the wider local authority area in which they are located.
The research shows that whilst a number of coastal hotspots have seen house prices cool over the last year, many remain highly desirable locations and continue to command significant premiums versus their surrounding market.
Seahouses in Northumberland
have seen the largest annual decline in house prices of all the coastal hotspots analysed by Yopa, with the average property value falling by -38.0% over the last year.
Portmeirion, Wales, ranks second, where house prices have declined by -20.2%, whilst Fowey in Cornwall has seen values fall by -18.3%.
North Berwick in East Lothian (-13.8%), Lossiemouth in Moray (-11.8%), Watchet in Somerset (-10.7%), and Aldeburgh in Suffolk (-10.6%) have also seen notable reductions over the last year.
Sandbanks in Dorset tops the table, where the average property price currently sits at £682,598, some 75.6% higher than the wider Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole average.
Padstow in Cornwall ranks second, commanding a premium of 70.0%, whilst Salcombe in Devon sits third at 68.1%.
Perranporth in Cornwall (55.4%), Southwold in Suffolk (51.6%), Kirkcudbright in
Property prices in Sandbanks are over 75% higher than the wider Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area.
Image: Darren Napier/Shutterstock.com.
Dumfries and Galloway (51.5%), Helensburgh in Argyll and Bute (50.7%), and Porthcawl in South Wales (50.0%) also command premiums of around 50% or more when compared to their surrounding local authority market.
Thurso in the Scottish Highlands ranks as the most affordable coastal hotspot when compared to its surrounding market, with the average house price sitting -38.1% below the wider Highland average.
Scarborough in North Yorkshire also offers considerable value, with house prices -34.8% below the wider North Yorkshire average, whilst Lossiemouth in Moray comes in -31.3% below the wider local authority average.
Millport in North Ayrshire (30.6%), Campbeltown in Argyll and Bute (-29.6%), and Westonsuper-Mare in Somerset (-27.5%) also offer buyers the opportunity to secure a coastal home at a discount versus the wider local authority market.
Verona Frankish, Chief Executive Officer at Yopa, commented:
“Many of Britain's coastal hotspots enjoyed exceptional
levels of house price growth during the pandemic, as buyers prioritised lifestyle and location whilst taking advantage of greater flexibility around where they lived and worked.
“As the market has normalised, it's no surprise that some of these premium locations have seen house prices cool.
“However, what this research demonstrates is that demand for coastal living remains remarkably resilient and, even where we've seen price corrections, many of the nation's most desirable seaside locations continue to command a significant premium over their surrounding market.”
Focalflames Fireplaces
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Summer Shading options from Lizzie Price
Shading Solutions
External shading offers a range of benefits for buildings and their occupants. By reducing direct sunlight penetration, fading of furnishings is greatly reduced and it helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures during warmer months, usually eliminating the need for air conditioning, and being far better for the environment.
At LPSS they know the
benefits that many of their customers have already experienced by shading externally to create cooler homes. Their range of products can also create the perfect outdoor space to sit in the shade and enjoy quality relaxation time with family and friends, choose a folding arm Awning, a Glassroom or a Veranda, all of which can be enhanced with heaters and lighting.
LPSS are excited to be launching a brand new, exclusive
to Weinor dealers, Weinor Vision – a mixed reality experience which enables you to view your chosen product on your home or in your garden before you buy. An experience that enables you to see different colours and fabrics and to realise your dream space to sit and unwind or entertain friends. LPSS are an approved, award winning Weinor dealer providing the very best range of Awnings, Verandas, Glassrooms
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MOTORING
J
uly already and half of this year has flown by in an instant. But with good weather and longer evenings there is no excuse for not getting more use from those old vehicles and hopefully more fun as a consequence.
I start this month with the events we can participate in and enjoy. The Somerset Section have their club night at Cossington on the 2nd and this will be a guest speaker. Next on the 12th will be the Veteran, Vintage and Anniversary Run which starts at Ston Easton Village Hall, and then on the 16th will be an Evening Meet at Gurney Slade.
The Dorset Section kick things off with Young Ryan’s Express on the 5th and this run starts at Sherborne. This is followed on the 11th (Saturday) with the Dorset Dakar which goes from Compton Abbas Airfield. This run encompasses a lot of trail riding and off roading for those who
enjoy such activities and gives an ideal excuse for those to get covered in mud. On the 23rd will be another club lunch meet at a venue yet to be finalised. Lastly on the 25th will be the White Horse Run which goes from East Stour. The Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section have their club meet at Silton on the 13th (Monday) and this will be a Barbecue. As usual ring 07813 248377 for more details.
You will see that both the Wells and Westlands Classic Motorcycle Clubs have a full schedule of events during the month so check out their websites for more details.
In 1946 a group of enthusiasts of old motorcycles decided that there should be a specific club to cater for their needs. On the 28th April a group of men met at a café on the Hogs Back near Guildford. It was decided that this idea should be implemented and they formed The Vintage Motor Cycle Club (or VMCC for
short). About thirty members were in attendance that day and from those humble beginnings the club has grown to become an internationally recognised authority on old motorcycles.
It therefore follows that the club has recently celebrated its 80th birthday. Now with 12,000 members and Sections all over the country, and many members overseas, it still flourishes. We in southwest England are well served with very active local Sections. The club offers many benefits and I should know as I have been a very happy member for over 52 years.
Back in 1926 the Burney brothers, Cecil and Aleck, built for themselves a motorcycle. They called it the Burney and made their own frames and then bought in the parts they needed. The 680cc JAP engine was coupled to a Burman gearbox whilst Brampton forks were used up front. The wheels were built using Royal Enfield hubs. Bosch electrics were for ignition and lighting. The whole machine was very well assembled and gave very good service.
Cecil Burney took his machine along to the Hogs Back and
became one of those founder members of the VMCC. The machine continued in use for many years and has never been restored. In due time the machine has been passed down through the family and is now owned by Richard Duffin. Still unrestored and in regular use the bike was displayed on our club’s stand at the Stafford Show that I reported on in the last issue. It carries that lovely patina of age.
With the history and the birthday celebrations I thought it very worthy to be included as my picture this month. Richard has promised to bring it to the next Bristol Show at Shepton Mallet next February. The other Burney, owned by Aleck, was damaged many years ago and so was broken up, so the pictured bike is certainly the one and only Burney which exists.
Richard has promised that it will never be restored and made pretty. He likes it just as it is and I am sure it will never leave the family’s ownership. It is surprising how many of these early one-off machines there are around. How nice it is to see them as part of our motorcycling history.
1926 680cc JAP-engine Burney.
Family Health with
Jenna Evans
So some breaking news! Since my article last month on polycystic ovary syndrome it has been renamed. PCOS is now PMOS – Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. Another mouthful I grant you, but one that does better reflect the nature of the disease. As we touched on last month both blood sugar and hormonal dysregulation are key players. From a food perspective, diets that seek to balance blood sugar are the way to go. Low GI (glycemic index) diets seek to reduce foods which have a larger 'spike' on blood sugar. Low glycemic load diets take this a step further, recognising that what we combine in a meal can change the impact of foods too.
That great nutritionist Patrick Holford has written many excellent books on this subject (and lots of others too, check him out!) Other dietary interventions that have shown promise include things like intermittent fasting –of which there are many options. Pop in store if you would like more info on these topics.
Stress management is always a priority when dealing with any health issue. I always recommend good self care practices –mindfulness, meditation, nature, EFT ('tapping'), movement therapies etc. Never underestimate the influence of our minds and emotions on our bodies. Herbs can help too and some of my favourites include Siberian Ginseng (combines beautifully with oats in a tincture) and liquorice (not the sweet!) which I love as a tea.
Last month I spoke about Myoinositol which would always be my foundation supplement for PMOS. Now we'll take a look at some others.
Berberine has become very popular of late for all kinds of metabolic disorders. Touted as a
remedy for high blood sugar, raised cholesterol, high blood pressure, non-alcoholic fatty liver and overweight. It has even been called nature’s GLP-1, referring to its popularity as an alternative to the weight loss jabs and drugs such as Ozempic.
Berberine is an alkaloid found in many medicinal herbs and named for its sourcing from the Berberis family of plants. I'm no fan of taking an isolate from a herb and using that as a medicine (far too pharmaceutical in its thinking for my liking) but I would much rather people use this than Ozempic. Research is still needed and time will tell but this supplement may be helpful for those with PMOS. Other useful (whole) herbs to regulate blood sugar include fenugreek, cinnamon and bitter melon – all easily incorporated into the diet or taken as extracts (the first two are tasty too!)
Two more powerful herbal allies are the Ayurvedic women's tonic Shatavari and the Traditional Chinese Medicine White Peony. Both may balance the hormones, promoting healthy
ovulation and possibly fertility. Spearmint is also a useful remedy for lowering androgens and dealing with excess unwanted hair. Something as simple as a couple of cups of this pleasant tea a day, over time, can make a difference to symptoms.
Looking after the liver is always essential when it comes to the hormones, so consider liver loving herbs such as milk thistle and dandelion. As always, please do pop in store if you would like a chat with any of the fantastic advisors in Ceres! Have a lovely month!
•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.
Stress management is always a priority when dealing with any health issue. Image: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com.
Iford Manor
EWith Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design arlier this month we visited the romantic Grade I listed Iford Manor, tucked away on the Wiltshire-Somerset border, at the bottom of a tranquil valley.
The house and gardens have been shaped over the generations by the families who have lived there and worked the land, with little changing since the Domesday Book, with animals still grazing the pastures beside the river and the manor house.
Set on the last Cotswold hill, these gardens are formal in places, with ancient statues, columns and terraces, yet they also work harmoniously with nature to frame magnificent views across the unspoilt valley, designated as part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
When we visited, the roses were in full bloom and looked amazing. I discovered a plant I did not know. A dainty purple flowered variegated milk thistle called Galactites tomentosa. This annual, freely self-seeds into walls, steps and rocky corners and is attractive to insects, and it certainly caught my eye.
The house and gardens are steeped in history, from their origins in the wool industry to the arrival of the Edwardian architect Harold Peto, who
acquired Iford in 1899 and transformed the gardens with his distinctive style.
For those wishing to explore further, the estate offers three miles of footpaths that criss-cross woodland and fields, immersing visitors in birdsong and nature as the paths wind through the landscape.
The River Frome flows through the estate and is home to beavers, otters and other wildlife, while the surrounding woodland and meadows form a Site of Special Scientific Interest, notable for a large maternity roost of Great and Lesser Horseshoe bats, one of the most significant in the country.
So, if you are looking for a
by the way they have a great restaurant and coffee shop too!
Find out more at www. ifordmanor.co.uk.
garden to visit, I would highly recommend Iford Manor near Bradford on Avon, and
Telescopic Bypass lopper
£44.99
Engineered for high-reach pruning, STIGA Telescopic Bypass Pruners use a durable Japanese carbon steel blade with Teflon coating for clean cuts up to 42mm. An integrated bumper absorbs pressure and vibrations, protecting arms and hands.
Ergonomic handle to ensure comfort.
Folding pruning saw £19.99
Engineered for efficiency, the STIGA Folding Pruning Saw boasts a curved blade with triple-ground teeth and Teflon coating for smooth cuts on dry wood up to 150mm in diameter. Its extra-grip handle ensures superior control and comfort, and the bright yellow finish makes it easy to spot.
Rare James Martin-owned Alfa Romeo among headline consignments at prestigious new auction event
AN extremely rare and beautifully coachbuilt Alfa Romeo owned by renowned car enthusiast and TV chef James Martin is set to be one of the standout attractions at RM Sotheby’s highly anticipated Woodcote Park Auction.
The prestigious sale of significant collector automobiles adds an exciting new dimension to the award-winning Royal Automobile Club Concours, taking place at Woodcote Park on Wednesday 8 July.
Martin’s exquisite handcrafted 1976 Alfa Romeo Sports Coupé is among the rarest Italian coachbuilt cars in existence and has been the subject of a meticulous and deeply personal six-year restoration programme.
This exceptional retro-inspired masterpiece is believed to be one of just eight examples built by the revered Italian coachbuilder Autotecnica del Lario (ATL), with each car featuring its own unique design details and distinguishing characteristics.
Based in Lombardy, originally near the shores of Lake Como, ATL earned a reputation for creating beautiful automobiles in extraordinarily limited numbers.
As a result, these often bespoke automotive treasures rarely come to market.
The ATL Sports Coupé’s handcrafted aluminium coachwork pays homage to the legendary racing berlinettas of the 1950s and is constructed over a Superleggera-style tubular steel ‘birdcage’ chassis. Power comes from Alfa Romeo’s celebrated 2.0litre twin-cam engine, producing more than 100 of the finest Italian horsepower. Combined with a kerb weight of less than 800kg, the result is an agile, engaging and highly rewarding driving experience.
The sale is open to registered bidders, consignors and invited media. Viewing will take place between 10am and 2pm, ahead of the auction itself, which commences at 3pm.
Full ticket details, terms and conditions, and comprehensive event information can be found at the official website: www.royalautomobileclub concours.co.uk.
PASTIMES
Andrew's books are available to purchase at Waterstones in Yeovil, Palmers Garden Centre, Yeovil, Somerton Art Space, Brimsmore Garden Centre, Folde in Shaftesbury and Winstones in Sherborne.
Your style? You can bid for this beautiful Alfa-Romeo on 8th July.
The Pub Pages
BEER & SKITTLES
What is it about pub sports that is so very appealing? Personally, I feel there is a whole gamut of reasons, and all those reasons combine to make a pub game –whatever it may be, special to the participant, and often to the delight of the spectator. Quiet, or even absolute silence, is demanded by players in pool and darts, but in the alley, teams vary from a stony silence to the bawdy and raucous! Generally, the latter is not a problem providing it does not spill into the bar - which is not completely unknown. In my experience games are played with good grace, and 'three cheers' called by the Captains for the opposing team after the game is still de rigueur in most leagues. I do hope this continues!
In his 1945 essay The Sporting Spirit, the great author and social commentator George Orwell notes “Serious sport has nothing to do with fair play: it is war minus the shooting”. His opinions were based on an international match when Dynamo Moscow toured Great Britain, and what little goodwill may have previously existed between the two countries, well and truly
evaporated. Scraps between players against the Arsenal team and a free-for-all during the match against Glasgow Rangers resulted in the Soviets refusing to play an all-England team, thus ending the tour somewhat early ... and here we are thinking that the occasional spat on the field is a more recent thing. I wonder what George Orwell - who didn't like football anyway - would make of today's game and the obscene amounts of money involved? Somewhat appropriate in relation to the goings-on in the football world at the moment, not that I will be watching any of it. I do have friends who agree, and have even heard them refer to the game as 'Wendy ball' (No further comment).
A handful of beers shared with my great mate Phil included a Theakston's IPA. This was the first time we have sampled this from a favourite brewer, but sadly we were rather unimpressed. 'Old Peculier' will still be the one of choice from now on. The other three were excellent, all of which we’d had before and no doubt will again. As Summer Skittles continues, there's been nothing new to write home about, although the GWRSA at Pen Mill has delivered us some excellent 'London Pride' and 'Butcombe Original'.
At this juncture we once again dive into a report from the ABM Skittles Club at Wallingford. Our reader will be aware of the regular reports on this fine organisation at what is possibly the only alley in the whole of Oxfordshire (unless you know better) Last month's thrilling episode of 'Beer and Skittles' (available online if you missed it) gave a little preview of the 'Hildred's* Festival of Skittles Tournament' which culminated in a whole weekend of fun at the club, with the final taking place on Saturday night 13th June. The team that came out
This month's beers.
victorious came from the Forest of Dean league, 'The Wanderers' and looking at their messages on Facebook we can be certain they had a great time, as did all the participants. What came over primarily was the message of how great a spirit existed throughout the whole tournament, the fine organisation and the commitment and friendliness of every one of the staff running the show – the cooks starting with the breakfasts at 9am and providing food throughout the day, to the bar staff for their patience and stamina, and of course the prime movers, Simon, Dave and Matt whose commitment to the game is absolute. (*Becks Hildred, owner of a local pick your own farm).
The tournament itself was not the only event, for there was an individual’s trophy, a West versus East match, plus more matches
on Sunday, along with 'Toads', Shove ha'penny, Bagatelle and Bar Skittles. Aunt Sally, Quoits and Bat and Trap were set up in the sports field. Undoubtedly a real celebration of pub-orientated games. Matt Callaghan brought his skittle team from Newport, and added a slate 'Shove' board to the two wooden versions, and presented the club with some genuine smoothed Ha'pennies. Roe Norman ('Jolly Floppers') presented the club with a gorgeous 4 5/8" lignum vitae ball, hand turned by the man himself. Sponsorship also came from the 'Rebellion' brewery, and a flashad appeared at every slo-mo replay along with a voice check during the 'live' transmissions, which started at 10am, and continued until after 10pm. Yes, twelve hours of live skittle action! So who did we have representing the immediate area?
P. A. BAXTER
The Wanderers.
Roe Norman presents a lignum ball to Simon and Dave.
The Pub Pages
BEER & SKITTLES P. A. BAXTER
I'm delighted to say we had 'Jolly Floppers' from the 'Bruton and Wincanton League' and from the 'Yeovil and District Sports League' came 'It Is What It Is'. There was even a 'Good Luck' message read out on Radio Ninesprings for them, but despite getting through to the semis, nerves took over and that's where they fell, although it was the eventual winners who took them out. I kept in touch with the team via the marvels of modern electrickery and was able to enjoy the proceedings as they happened (although no, I didn't sit in front of YouTube all day watching all the matches!)
Are any of you lovely people out there in Visitor land fans of Karaoke? In my experience Karaoke and music are not synonymous, and hence, I go out of my way to avoid any pub or club where it is featured. I can only recall hearing one person do a decent rendition of an old classic, and it was as if Dean Martin had come back to visit! We were a captive audience at the time, so couldn't escape(!) I realise that many people think
'it's a good laugh' although I don't share the sentiment. Recently an in-depth article in a trade magazine described it as 'no longer a novelty, or bringing the people in'. What do you think?
A recent item on the local news was a photographic exhibition in Bridgwater featuring none other than our favourite pub game. Sadly I was unable to make the trip to view. Entitled The Skittle Players of Bridgwater it follows the ups and downs of the game by renowned photographer and TV film-maker Joss Barratt. His aspiration was to 'capture the grit, camaraderie, and generational heritage of the town's traditional skittles leagues' and 'make one feel that they were there, rather than just observing'. From those I have seen I would agree that he did just this, and am sorry I was not able to get there. Links to several sites on the Internet will get one to view some of the photos, however. Again using Google, check out 'Map of UK skittle leagues' where one can connect to three of the four Bridgwater leagues via links, thanks to the sterling work by Dave 'The Mighty' Quinn, the man behind so many statistics,
Pete Lambden has a delivery! and of course one of the stalwarts at the ABM club. Whilst on those league sites, do check out the rules of the Bridgwater Town and District Skittles, which are 'detailed' to say the least –possibly the most I have ever seen, in fact.
Many photos of the action from Wallingford end up on their own Facebook group (ABM Skittles) and many other games are featured on the 'Pub Games' group. Why not join us in the mission to promote these wonderful legacies as the medium to get more people into our equally wonderful pubs. Go on, you know you want to! Cheers!
That John Clothier of Crewkerne likes to be early, although 7 days is possibly a little too early.
That Mark Hill of Long Sutton was surprised to find out that the ‘special’ button in the bottom of Cruzcampo glasses is responsible for the copious amount of bubbles produced. That residents of Henstridge are installing cameras with speed monitoring app, to help catch dangerous drivers.
That it was disappointing to find that the Water Fountain in Yeovil didn’t come up to expectations during the recent heatwave.
That everyone loves a free range egg … even the cheeky magpies who were recently seen in Chiselborough helping themselves from boxes of eggs on sale outdoors.
That the parents ‘Tug of War’ event at North Cadbury C of E Primary School Sports Day was a spectacle to behold. Well done to all who took part.
That after a recent visit to a Crewkerne supermarket, the registering of £144 for toilet paper on the till receipt nearly caused the recipient to make full use of the product there and then.
Solution to June Sudoku
Food for thought
BACK in the 1990s, running a country pub – as owner, manager or tenant – must have seemed an attractive and sociable way of earning a living. Incomers were often featured in the pages of the Visitor, and the July 1996 issue was no exception. A feature on the Crown Inn at Greenhill in Sherborne revealed that Peter and Isabelle Halkyard had recently purchased it ‘after successfully running their own restaurant in the sunny French resort of St Tropez for 12 years’. It stated that ‘although only having owned the Crown for just over a month, Peter and Isabelle have been busy decorating and updating the kitchen and food is now available’, and the emphasis is on ‘fresh food of the highest quality, therefore the menu will change fortnightly according to what is in season’.
At the other end of Visitorland, at Aller near Langport, ‘Susan and Tony Francis together with their daughter Emma purchased the Pound Inn in March and have started restoring it to its former glory’, with progress already made with colourful hanging baskets and outside lighting. The report added that ‘more importantly, of course, is the glorious food which is now available’. It informed readers that ‘the attractive 60-seater restaurant overlooks the garden’, and ‘over the next few months the interior of the inn will be enhanced and the large skittle alley will be completely refurbished to a high standard, with its own bar so it can double as a function room, ideal for weddings and private parties’. You have to admire their optimism!
Somerton’s uneasy feeling
Things didn’t look so rosy in Somerton. A planning application to convert the Red Lion on the Market Place into shop units, offices and a supermarket had been refused, as was a revised application which attempted to address the reasons for the initial refusal. The applicant appealed against the second refusal and a public enquiry was held in the Spring of 1996, but according to the July Visitor ‘a decision is not
expected for about three to six months’.
The report explained that the present owners ‘are a finance company who hold it as the result of a foreclosure on a debt’, and ‘their chief concern is probably to dispose of it in such a way as to recover their debt’. It concluded that Somerton waits with ‘the uneasy feeling that local people ultimately have no control or influence over a site that is extremely important to them’ and ‘the town will have to live with a decision made elsewhere by a total stranger’.
Petherton package of enhancements Moves were afoot to enhance the centre of South Petherton in 1996. The July Visitor reported that the town’s Business Association already provides and maintains floral displays around Blake Hall ‘and they will be approaching South Somerset District Council for assistance with a package of measures to improve the area’. These would include more floral displays, some trees to provide a little shade, more litter bins at strategic points, and finger posts to direct visitors to points of interest and local facilities. The Association estimated the cost to be around £4,000, hopefully ‘to be shared with the SSDC’.
Silver lining in the Park
‘July 6th sees the official unveiling of the new facilities at the Park School, Yeovil by local artist designer Guy Martin’. So reported the July 1996 Visitor
stating that ‘last October the school was the victim of a mindless arson attack causing immense damage’.
Apparently ‘the fire was started in the stable block which houses the Art and Design Studio upstairs and the Home Economics Dept below, which were completely destroyed’ and ‘the smoke caused extensive damage to other classrooms and the biology lab’. But ‘every cloud has a silver lining’ and the newly refurbished Studio ‘has been transformed and equipment such as pottery wheels and fabric printing materials replaced’. The report added that ‘the Home Economics centre is enviable, with its redesigned layout incorporating new cookers, sinks, work stations, microwaves etc’, and ‘the biology lab has also benefited from replacement
equipment bringing its facilities completely up to date.
Some cheaper options
Car enthusiasts might remember the Skoda Bohemia. According to the July 1996 Visitor the limited edition Bohemia hatchback and estate cars were based on the Felicia model and feature ‘a host of extras which give these new cars a young and sporty appeal’. Apparently they are ‘available in five bright colours’ to ‘complete the sporty look’. In the same issue a motor dealer advertised that the Proton provided ‘Japanese Type Engineering and Quality from only £6,999 on the road’ and the Lada Niva Hussar had just been updated and improved and ‘you could almost say that the Hussar is the poor man’s Land Rover’ Roger Richards.
Cl ass ified Ads
Send details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, BA9 0BP or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential. Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit/Debit Card.
Storage
STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles. Lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692
EX-DISPLAY SHEDS. Stables, Garages, Field Shelters, Garden Rooms, Offices, Poolrooms, Village Halls, Agricultural and Commercial. Anything made to your requirements in timber and steel. Tel: 01935 891195 or visit www.customtimberbuildingsltd.co.uk
Get your advert in now August issue booking deadline: 20th July
Prize Crossword No. 475
Set by Frank Butler
SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO:
The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Monday 20th July.
Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize for winning the Crossword is a £15 voucher to spend with any advertiser in this issue of The Visitor Please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.
Clues Across:
8. Part of stub agrees with part of band [4]
9. Gained return at the moment [3]
10. Ethnic hater or motor club enthusiast? [6]
11. Fall over rising journey [4, 2]
12. Most ungainly takes wig askew [8]
13. He protects the environment in a Scott version [15]
15. Corrupting gun bias [7]
17. Getting about Genoa is painful [7]
20. Unexpected benefit from the Old Testament [5, 4, 6]
23. Redeemed, having managed some five hundred [8]
25. Sent on a job by snail-mail? [6]
26. Spring back and wind up again [6]
27. To be incumbent isn’t the truth [3]
28. Socially acceptable and finished [4]
Clues Down:
1. Two-pint round, smaller than A4 [6]
2. ‘Tis sharp for musicians [8]
3. Daddy or Mummy doesn’t live with us [3, 6, 6]
4. One-time billabong neighbour with a bundle to carry [7]
5. Climax of novel telling of coronation? [8, 7]
6. “Oi! Can’t you do it?” [6]
7. Exists twice in Oxford [4]
14. Lady to make legal claim [3]
16. Initially broken red arch provides support [3]
18. “Arise, Ned!” It’s on your left [8]
19. Luggage taken literally by Mary Poppins? [7]
21. N.T. sore about old Greek hero [8]
22. All leave at this direction [6]
24. Name wrong - so be it! [4]
Winner of the June Crossword Is Marilyn Clarkson of Stalbridge who chose to spend the £15 at Vale Coaches.
