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Your local independent monthly journal 01963 351256 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
Issue 516 November 2026
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In Passing...
I
t might have escaped your notice that the Government designated 2026 as the National Year of Reading in response to disturbing findings of surveys by The Reading Agency and the National Literacy Trust. Apparently only 25% of boys and 39% of girls aged 8 to 18 enjoy reading for pleasure and 35% of adults class themselves as lapsed readers. This year’s campaign was designed to help more people discover or rediscover the joy of reading and make it part of their everyday lives. According to campaign director David Hayman ‘reading is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect, create and grow, but right now too many people are switching off from it. We want to reimagine reading as something modern, meaningful and social, and this campaign is about reaching people where they are and inviting them to rediscover the power and joy of reading.’ But what has it achieved, you might well ask, apart from some of the libraries that have survived the previous government’s austerity cuts organising special events and the National Trust encouraging visitors to browse the books in the libraries at some of its historic properties. Yet more than 180,000 new and revised book titles are published in the United Kingdom each year. Few towns are without a bookshop, often an independent enterprise run by enthusiasts keen to share their love of reading. In some communities local residents have established book swaps in their village hall, pub or redundant telephone box. And the number of literary festivals is increasing year on year, ranging from the family-friendly festival in a field to the idyllic book-lover’s dream on a grand country estate and an event encompassing an entire town or village. The Cheltenham Literature Festival, founded in 1949, is the longest-running festival of its kind in the world and still leads the way in celebrating the written and spoken word, presenting the best new
voices in fiction and poetry alongside literary greats and high-profile speakers, while inspiring over 9,000 school children with a love of books. Here in Visitorland Sturminster Newton Literary Festival in June focuses on celebrating writers associated with the town (Thomas Hardy, William Barnes, and Robert Young), current Dorset and Wessex writers, and aspiring writers of the future. The festival includes a range of talks, workshops, guided walks, and collaborative events with local businesses to promote writing from the region. The Literary Festival of Mere in October has been held annually since 1997 and features esteemed interviewers sitting down with authors to delve deeper into their work, ideas and inspirations. Also in October the Yeovil Literary Festival presents an exciting programme of literature, comedy and arts events from well-known literary figures, celebrities and exciting new writers. Such events aren’t patronised only by well-off oldies. And they will no doubt continue their good work long after 2026 and its designation have passed into history. NN
Advertising Deadlines December Issue Deadline: 16th November Published: 26th November
PO Box 5522, Castle Cary Somerset BA9 0BP Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine x.com/thevisitormag Editor Max Dunion Production Assistant Anita Grey Consultant Helen Dunion © The Visitor Ltd. 2026
(Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)
CONTENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED ‑ 30 CASTLE CARY ‑ 14 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE ‑ 12 CROSSWORD ‑ 30 FESTIVE MENUS & VENUES ‑ 26 GARDENING ‑ 25 HOUSE & HOME ‑ 22 LEISURE ‑ 19 LOOKING GOOD ‑ 20 MENTIONED in DISPATCHES ‑ 5 MOTORING ‑ 18 PHONE‑A‑FIRM ‑ 29 POP QUIZ ‑ 19 PUBS ‑ 26
NOTE TO ADVERTISERS
REMEMBER WHEN ‑ 28
Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as stated on our rate card, available upon request.
SUDOKU ‑ 19
The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.
THEY SAY ‑ 28
THE BIGGER PICTURE ‑ 10
WINE & DINE ‑ 20 Cartoons by GEOFF THOMPSON
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Trafalgar to the present day. An illustrated talk by Richard Kay on Thursday 12th November at Long Sutton Village Hall TA10 0NT, 6-15pm for 7-00pm. Tickets: £20 (to include a glass of wine & canapés). Booking via: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/richardkay-lecture-2026-hosted-bysomerton-and-langport-rnlitickets-2002455564498. If you require any assistance purchasing tickets please contact Tony Steele-Perkins at tonysteelep@gmail.com or call on 07731 380371. In aid of RNLI Saving Lives At Sea.
Mentioned in
Dispatches Charity Christmas Gift Fair at Wincanton Racecourse Tuesday 1st December 2026 10am-4pm
After 25 successful years - this is the last! 50 stalls booked in - the Fair is full. A fantastic and unique Christmas shopping experience in the heart of Somerset. Around 50 independent stalls selling unique and quality products make it a great opportunity to get all your Christmas shopping done in one place, under one roof. The Fair is held in a huge marquee which benefits from a raised, carpeted floor and heating. Full height windows run the length of one side which allows the natural light to flood in. There is ample parking and tarmac avenues allow easy access. Disabled parking almost to the door. This year they are thrilled to work with an excellent caterer who will provide the all day cafe with teas, coffees, snacks and
There’s gifts for everyone at the Charity Gift Fair 2026, taking place at Wincanton Racecourse on 1st December.
delicious light lunches in the adjacent Kingwell Suite - here you can sit and enjoy your time warm and dry. Every year there is a balance of popular regular stalls and excellent new stalls all offering a wide range of products from traditional to contemporary and everything in-between. There's something for everyone. The full list of stalls can be viewed on the website exhibitor page. Entrance to the Fair is £5. A raffle is held for a luxury hamper, or two! All in support of a Somerset Charity Children’s Hospice South West.
Somerton & Langport area branch of the RNLI illustrated talk:‘Fair Weather & Foul’ 12th November
This talk has been newly updated and will cover marine themes and sailing subjects in (mainly) British art from the Battle of
YOUR ADVERT HERE FROM JUST £20+VAT could be reaching an estimated 75,000 readers every month
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Dispatches Cary’s big Carnival night out
Castle Cary was in a party mood on Saturday 17th October to welcome its biggest carnival procession in years! The narrow streets lit up, as phenomenal floats, imaginative walkers, twirling majorettes and toetapping bands streamed through the town – receiving a great welcome from the lively crowd who were up for a great night out!
“Carnival brings our community together like nothing else,” says Carnival Society Chair, Malcolm Wake. “Entrants always say that Cary Carnival is special because the crowd is friendly. We proved that with cheers and dancing in the streets! “The biggest cheers of the night went to the local entries, especially the Scouts and local schools” continues Malcolm. “The numbers of children and the creativity of the entries was great to see! “Countess Gytha Primary School had a milky way of mini Cosmonauts to win the Inter Schools Cup, with Castle Cary’s own Higlets with their magical entry Wu Long won the highly contested category Group Juvenile with props. Castle Cary’s own carnival club Comedians, did us proud with amazing high energy dancing, and real bucking bronco’s! seeming to ride down the high street. “There were so many incredibly creative walking entries; I’m glad I wasn’t judging!” said Society General Secretary, Caroline Sharley. “With the standard of entries even higher, a huge shout out to Best Overall Cart winners, Insane Experiments, with the dance-inducing soundtrack. Let’s do the timewarp again Kipling. “Finally, congratulations to the sparkling Ilchester Gems for 6 THE VISITOR November 2026
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Mentioned in
Dispatches high-stepping into first place in the majorettes’ competition.” “Over 70% of the collection goes to local charitable causes so we’re delighted to say that from both carnivals we raised over £1700. A very big thank you to our evergenerous community!” said Carnival Treasurer Doug.
Crosse. Incredible local business support. The Carnival Society would like to thank; sponsors, marshalls, collectors and the 100’s of other people who helped make the big night out happen. Sponsorship from local businesses and families was up more than 30% this year, showing how important it is to them to be part of their community. A very special thank you for their support. After all, it takes a community to put on a carnival! For full Carnival results, and more about Castle Cary’s carnivals, see www.ccacs.org.uk.
Best Overall Cart winners - Insane Experiments ‘Kipling’.
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Mentioned in
Dispatches
milestone, bringing in £6,300 for this local good cause. The incredible sum fully funded the clinic, allowing over 200 men to receive a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test completely free of charge.
Pints and Prevention: Cross Keys Inn Beer Festival Raises Thousands for Life-Saving Prostate Tests
Local men took a proactive step toward their health at a free prostate cancer screening clinic hosted at the Cross Keys Inn Lydford on Fosse. The screening event, which took place on Saturday, 17th October 2026, was made entirely possible by the pub's legendary annual charity beer festival. This year's festival fundraising efforts achieved an extraordinary
The event was organized by the pub in partnership with Somerset Prostate Support Association (SPSA). The high-profile clinic also drew support from Glastonbury and Somerton MP Sarah Dyke, who attended to praise the community’s immense
fundraising achievements and highlight the importance of localised health initiatives. Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer among men in the UK, making early detection absolutely vital. Because earlystage prostate cancer rarely presents noticeable symptoms, routine PSA tests serve as a crucial first line of defence. A simple blood test can flag early warning signs long before physical symptoms appear, significantly improving treatment outcomes. By bringing healthcare directly into a familiar, relaxed setting, organisers successfully broke down traditional barriers to testing, encouraging many men to get checked who might otherwise hesitate to book a formal GP appointment. Reflecting on the success of the weekend, David Grindley, the
owner of the Cross Keys Inn, expressed immense pride in the community's response. “This is such a vital step forward for men’s health in the community," he remarked. "What better than to have the test followed by a pint and a chat with others.” The incredible momentum from the festival isn't stopping there. The pub has announced that fundraising efforts will continue year-round to support this critical cause. Dedicated charity t-shirts have been launched and will remain on sale directly at the bar throughout the year, allowing patrons to continue contributing to future SPSA events. While Saturday's clinic has now concluded, the SPSA continues its vital work across the region. The SPSA extended their heartfelt gratitude to the team at the Cross Keys Inn, and all the local volunteers and patrons whose generosity powered the fund raising event.
A new chapter begins: Book Nooks open at National Trust places across the South West this autumn
From orchard hideaways and historic libraries to window seats overlooking autumn landscapes, National Trust places across the South West are inviting visitors to slow down and discover the joy of reading this season. Specially created Book Nooks will appear at eight National Trust properties, each offering a unique setting in which to enjoy carefully selected books to escape into a story. Visitors can wrap up in blankets beneath the trees, enjoy panoramic views, browse books or settle among fairy lights and folklore-inspired displays. Reading inspired autumn trails to mark the National Year of Reading will also be available at some places for younger visitors as well as children’s books and goodie bags for the Under-5s. The collection includes titles inspired by local history, nature, heritage and the landscape, helping visitors deepen their connection with the stories that make these places unique. The reading areas also complement the National Trust's commitment to creating meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity, learning and wellbeing. Claire Reed, Cultural Heritage Curator at the National Trust, said: “There's something magical about finding the perfect spot to read, especially as the days grow shorter and the colours of autumn begin to appear. The idea behind our Book Nooks was simple: to create cosy corners where visitors 8 THE VISITOR November 2026
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Mentioned
art. Indeed, some of the world’s greatest art has been inspired by war, or hatred of it.
December deadline: 16th November
in
Dispatches can take a break and enjoy a story in beautiful surroundings. From fairy-lit libraries and orchard retreats to window seats with spectacular views, each nook offers its own invitation to slow down, switch off and turn a page.”
Thursday 12th November, 7pm to 8pm (6pm to 7pm, the Mess café bar will be open). Taking place in the Long Gallery. Messums West, Place Farm, Court Street, Tisbury, Wiltshire. SP3 6LW. Tickets £15 adult, £8 child. Given the distressing nature of some of the images, the lecture is not suitable for children under 15 years.
Lanhydrock Book Nook overlooking the gatehouse. Image: Clair Harwood/ National Trust Images.
You'll find a number of reading nooks across National Trust places in the South West this autumn: Avebury offers Book Nooks throughout the Manor, including the library and upper floors, with children's books available in several locations. Lacock will host its Book Nook in the Botanic Garden Bothy, while Lanhydrock has created Book Nooks in both the house and gardens, alongside a folklore-themed storytelling activity. At Mompesson House, visitors can relax with a book in the historic library, and Newark Park offers cosy reading spaces with views across the Ozleworth Valley. Stourhead also provides a peaceful spot to pause with a book, while The Courts has a dedicated Book Nook area in Visitor Reception. At Tyntesfield, visitors can find Book Nooks in the Pavilion Café overlooking the orchard and near the Upper Courtyard.
Messums West next art talk The Bitter Truth: War & Warriors in Art
In the fourth of her talks at Messum’s, art historian Sara Radice will be examining war in The Bitter Truth: War & Warriors in Art. For as long as mankind has fought wars, they have also been recorded and processed through THE VISITOR November 2026 9
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The Bigger Picture With Bridget Sudworth
O
n a recent holiday in East Anglia, it was no surprise to see how very dry the land looked. Here in the west, our greens have returned even though we need so much more rain but whatever has fallen over there, is still woefully inadequate. Suffolk in particular where we were based is a land of wondrous churches built, metaphorically speaking, on the back of sheep. Wealth was phenomenal as a result of trading wool; strange to be reminded of this fact when today the value of fleeces, we are told, do not cover the cost of
shearing. The architectural styles shout at you once off the main roads - local bricks so different in colour from here being pale yellowish and omnipresent is gloriously complex timber framing even though trees are not so common but yet another sign of historical wealth to have a house with a wooden frame. Thatched roofs are very common as one might expect with rushes harvested from the Broads among other watery places. The Dutch influence is subtle but definitely there with large dormer windows and rather squat though pleasing ground floors. Flints are a copiously used building material
Lavenham church.
Ely Cathedral Octagon. 10 THE VISITOR November 2026
Tranmer House, Sutton Hoo.
and so enduring - abbey ruins in Bury St Edmunds after Henry Vlll had had a go at them are still marked by the flinty hearts of the foundations left standing. Henry’s vandalism was well matched by Oliver Cromwell bashing the faces off statues and stripping out churches - what a pair! It was delightful to note that dogs were welcomed into church and cathedral alike. Wilfred was not with us but had he been so, would have enjoyed a sniff round the pews (and maybe more?)! We had a joyful reunion on our return. The waterless landscape was most obvious at hauntingly strange Sutton Hoo - a place we both were pleased to visit at last. The 1910 Tranmer House (once Sutton Hoo House and home to Edith Pretty who instigated the first dig in 1939), due to drought stands strangely alone on barren sandy soil with no accompanying garden to soften the points where
masonry meets ground. Very open views all around allowed newly widowed Mrs Pretty to contemplate the mounds from her windows lying in the near distance, all on her own land, before making the decision to find out at last what might lie beneath them. The discoveries in Mound 1 (thankfully not previously plundered like other mounds), were yet another reminder about the world being so much bigger and better connected in the socalled Dark Ages and even prehistoric times, than any of us knew until relatively recently. So many archeological digs have turned up treasure troves that contain materials and styles from far distant lands forcing us to reflect on the methods and diversity of travel and trade in days gone by. It all acts as a reminder of how little we know about the past. I did wonder if the marauding Anglo-Saxons sailed here having had a few nights sleeping under their woolly home-knitted sails, permanently damp and full of salt! Very likely they did as they rowed along the coastlines picking and choosing where next to rape and pillage. Always looking for wide river estuaries from which they could trade, the Deben River in Suffolk proved a good spot to investigate, enhanced with a suitable ‘hoo’, a piece of prominent land projecting into a valley suitable for royal burials and visible from the river to act as a warning to new invaders about the power of the residents. The iconic helmet and magnificent sword and shield that were part of the burial plunder from Mound 1 demonstrated that battles were just as omnipresent in the thinking of early Man as nowadays which renders all history very familiar. Henry Vlll and Cromwell (Oliver not Thomas) were both embroiled in battles of one kind or another either with the French or the
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Bab al Mandab Strait. Image: Below the Sky/Shutterstock.com.
locals which is no different from today - nothing is new and mostly the fault of God/gods? In our time, the Middle East is ploughing on with Trump failing to understand what he has begun and with Putin who has no end-game in sight unless Zelensky agrees to totally capitulate Ukrainian sovereignty. If the Houthis manage to close Bab al Mandab to add to the existing troubles through Hormuz, we shall all be kippered
as fuel costs are rising exponentially. We shall all be looking for viking ships to get us to those holiday venues or tricycles with big baskets on the front to go to the supermarket if the shelves have anything on them to sell. Many years ago we happened to be on the coast of Eritrea hoping to find cooling respite in the sea only to be greeted with soupy warmth and sludgy sand. It’s an unforgiving area not so far
‘The Night Watch’ by Rembrandt van Rijn, 1642 at Rijksmuseum while undergoing restoration. Image: Todamo/Shutterstock.com.
away from Bab al Mandab although if you pop inland from that narrow pinch-point, you won’t be bothered with fuel charges as you can fry an egg on the bonnet of your car in the Danakil desert in Djibouti. If Mr Trump had looked at his school atlas before attacking Iran, he might have thought about the geography as well as the politics. Still, as usual, it’s all too late and one can only hope that our grit will get us through what
‘La Marseillaise’ on the Arc de Triomphe, Paris. Image: HJBC/Shutterstock.com.
could be a tricky winter. The French are revolting again. They can’t help themselves with their noisy, smoky, destructive demos. They do have a bit of a case though with crumbling school buildings, vast classes and diminished teaching teams. Sounds like home so let’s hope nobody gets any funny ideas round here. And an amazing little nugget picked up from recent reading declares that the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam are checking out Rembrandt’s Night Watch painting for various bacteria deposited on the canvas while the artist laboured over his brushwork, dropping off flaky skin and drips of sweat maybe. Imagine if the results gave us Rembrandt’s DNA? A whole new picture would emerge. Well, folks, this is November so guess what’s coming along next? It’s really hard to believe that we have only had 11 months notice before Christmas comes round again though it does seem slightly possible that the Christmas fare in the shops is not quite so in-your-face as in previous years. Maybe traders are holding back a bit? We certainly need some winter weather temps to get us in the mood, though since Yorkshire has just been declared an official drought area to add to all the others nationwide, we can only hope for rain and lots of it. THE VISITOR November 2026 11
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All Fired Up For Christmas at Muchelney Pottery 7th & 8th November, 10am – 4pm
The annual early Christmas shopping event returns again this year to kick start your festive gift buying – the shop and gallery will be brimming with ideas! IN THE SHOP & GALLERY: they will have unpacked the last kiln firing of the year so the shelves will be full of handmade kitchenware pots for the home
and the chef in the family! There will also be signed studio pottery from Mark Melbourne, Nick Rees, John Leach and Ben Leach. As well as all their freshly fired pots they will be displaying a specially curated range of beautiful handmade pieces from a selection of invited makers including glassware by Kate Doig and traditional Devon stave baskets by John Williamson both exhibiting at Muchelney Pottery for the first time.
IN THE KILN SHED: They have the wonderful Parrett Cider joining in – offering complimentary mulled cider and selling bottles of their award winning cider for your forthcoming festivities! Their trainee Hannah Leach will also have a stall selling some of her personal work that she has been developing while she has been with them.
Sherborne and is a long established business. They have a large range of wild bird food and feeders to cater for all types of birds. They have an extensive range of dog and cat toys, plus all the usual pet foods, beds, leads and accessories, hedgehog and wildlife foods and supplies etc. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5.15pm, Sat 9am-4.45pm. Tel 01935 812107.
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Bretts Pet & Wildlife Supplies in Old Market Car Park, Sherborne.
Webb Eco X-Series takes the hard work out of autumn garden care
Muchelney Pottery’s early Christmas Shopping Event is on 7th & 8th November.
Image: Sara Gaskins.
Join them for a warming mulled cider and first look at all their wonderful work! Muchelney Pottery, Nr Langport, TA10 0DW, www.johnleachpottery.co.uk.
Stoking the Kiln. Image: Sara Gaskins.
Bretts (C Brett & Son), Pet & Wildlife Supplies in Sherborne
BRETTS (C Brett & Son) Pet and Wildlife supplies is situated in the Old Market Car park in
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As Christmas approaches and gardens continue their seasonal change, British garden machinery brand Webb Garden Power is helping gardeners tackle everything from falling leaves and overgrown hedges to pruning and general garden clearance with its powerful Webb Eco 40V X-Series cordless range. Designed for medium to large gardens, the X-Series combines the freedom and convenience of cordless machinery with two 20V lithium-ion batteries working together to deliver powerful 40V performance. Brushless motor technology provides efficient, reliable operation, while the absence of power cables makes it easy to move around larger gardens, paths and driveways. For heavier pruning and cutting jobs through autumn and winter, the Webb WEV20X2CS40B4X 40V Brushless Chainsaw combines cordless convenience with a substantial 40cm cutting bar and chain speed of up to 25m/s. Automatic chain lubrication helps keep the chain running smoothly, while three variable speed settings enable the user to match
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the power to the job. Suitable for tasks including cutting logs and pruning larger branches, the chainsaw is supplied with two 4Ah batteries and charger and has an RRP of £169.99. All five machines use two 20V batteries to provide 40V performance, and the batteries are interchangeable across the Webb Eco cordless platform, making it easy to move from one seasonal garden task to the next. As with all Webb Eco products, the X-Series is backed by a threeyear warranty and full UK spares
availability, giving gardeners long-term peace of mind. Webb is a trusted British garden equipment brand dedicated to making garden care simple and accessible for all. With a wide range of practical, easyto-use tools designed to deliver reliable and durable performance, Webb helps gardeners of every experience level achieve outdoor spaces they can be proud of. The Webb Eco X-Series is available now from leading garden retailers and online at webbgardenpower.co.uk.
rs yea 0 er 7 mers r ov r custo op o f sh ed k fo lish Car Par r of the b a a t Es at re Free Ward & Sibley of Yeovil, for bespoke jewellery and a personal service.
WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil
Our repair section of the business is pleased to offer AUTUMN PROMOTION FREE clean & setting check on gemstone rings
Complete refurbishment of jewellery – soldering charms onto bracelets, sizing rings, repairing chains, jewellery cleaning Watch repairs including battery replacements Jewellery handmade to your own design Seal, hand, and machine engraving Valuations for insurance and probate Pearl and bead re-threading
Ends 30/11/26
GLASTONBURY POST OFFICE AND CLASS CARDS OPEN: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-12.30pm
35 High Street Glastonbury BA6 9HG
Telephone 01458 831536
WESTERN UNION • MOBILE TOP-UPS
STATIONERY • SAVINGS ACCOUNTS
STAMPS • GAS • ELECTRICITY • WATER • BANKING TRANSACTIONS
Gift Vouchers Available
THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL BA20 1NA ● Tel: 01935 474065
FREE Car Par k at rear of shop for customers while visiting
GREETINGS CARDS • HOLIDAY INSURANCE • FOREIGN CURRENCY • MUCH MORE
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NOVEMBER sees Remembrance Sunday on the 8th and Armistice Day on the 11th so it seemed appropriate to start this month’s perambulation of Castle Cary at the town’s war memorial. Constructed of Cornish granite, it was erected in 1920 in the horsepond at the bottom of Fore Street, possibly a unique and certainly a very unusual location for a memorial, and carries the names of 45 local servicemen slaughtered in World War 1, to which the names of 16 victims of WW2 were added later. Nearby is a bronze sculpture of a swan, installed earlier in the current century to commemorate the black swans that settled on the pond in bygone days.
The horsepond is all that remains of the moat that once surrounded a medieval manor house thought to have been built in the 13th century using stone from the dismantled castle, and its site included Park Pond, the
MAX FOOTE Associates Ltd Chartered Certified Accountants 2 Bailey Hill Castle Cary BA7 7AD Tel: 01963 351052 Business and limited company accounts, self assessment tax returns, VAT, Payroll, Book-keeping and Training Personal and professional service
14 THE VISITOR November 2026
source of the River Cary. The house was demolished in the early 1800s and Manor Farmhouse was built on the site. The small estate of modern houses behind the horsepond occupies its former extensive farmyard, and at the top of the drive alongside the far end of the pond the farmhouse still stands as a reminder of the historical importance of this site. Sadly the nearby Horsepond Inn has been closed and converted into a Co-op store, but venture up Fore Street to the Market Place and High Street and you will see a diverse range of shops, many of them brimming with ideas for Christmas gifts. The town centre is full of small, independent businesses offering personal service, and whatever you’re seeking, the chances are that you can buy it in Castle Cary. It is fortunate in still having the independent Bailey Hill Bookshop which stocks an enormous range of new and second-hand titles and which welcomes browsers. Another browser’s paradise is Needful Things filled with a vast selection of home accessories, decorations, gifts, fabrics and soft furnishings. Opposite is Bishop’s Electrical which offers not only good deals on televisions and other home entertainment equipment but also a range of small electrical appliances and plenty of good advice. On Tuesday mornings a market is held at the town’s distinctive Market House where there are usually a dozen or more stalls selling a variety of fresh foods and much else. These and others are well worth a browse. Out of town the station is now a visitor destination in its own right for those who relish nostalgia. When the Great
Western Railway (GWR) opened from Frome to Yeovil 170 years ago a small station was provided a country mile from Castle Cary in the valley below Ansford, next to the level crossing which took the rails across the coach road from Cary to Shepton Mallet and Bath. Prior to the opening a new road, now called Station Road, was constructed across the fields from what is now the top of Torbay Road to join realigned routes from Ansford to Clanville and Shepton and to cross the railway on a bridge west of the station.
Recently the station building has been completely refurbished with the layout of the ticket office and waiting room remodelled to provide more and better seating, decorated in the famous GWR chocolate-and-cream colours, and provided with an enlarged universal access toilet. The original entrance has been
reopened and a disabled access ramp installed, and the exterior of the station has been repainted in the GWR colours and traditional GWR signage reintroduced. The £835,000 refurbishment was paid for by the Department for Transport and the Railway Heritage Trust, I’m told, and it’s well worth every penny, but still much needed are lifts to make platforms 2 and 3 easily accessible. It follows the provision of a second car park and space for easier bus and taxi connections around three years ago after The Newt in Somerset acquired the old creamery behind the station. This was converted into a working dairy making soft cheeses, a café/shop selling food for rail travellers and visitors and a restaurant for local diners. From the front it appears to be single-storey, but it is built into a slope and has a ‘downstairs’ floor which now houses the restaurant and gives access to a small sheltered garden. The furnishings and decor have been designed to reflect what is often dubbed the Edwardian ‘Golden Age of Travel’ and look very impressive. Period posters and photographs adorn the walls, and in the garden is a former Pullman railway carriage. More nostalgia! Until recently the fields between the railway bridge and the town’s edge had seen little development since the road was built but this is rapidly changing. The council’s planners acknowledged that more homes and jobs would be needed to cater for the town’s growing population and their preferred option for development was land on both sides of Station Road. This will accommodate around 200 dwellings, many of them now already built and occupied. Any large development is bound to be controversial but if the town doesn’t grow it will stagnate. It
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The Creamery.
has certainly grown in the 44 years I have known it, and much of that growth has been achieved without too much harm being done to its countryside setting or its core of historic buildings. Development on Station Road is unlikely to damage the town’s character and its appeal to visitors, and it will certainly bring the town closer to its station. The stretch of Station Road from the top of Torbay Road to the town centre has also seen some major changes down the years, the latest being the demolition of Castle Cary Constitutional Club and the erection of eight dwellings on the site. Readers with long memories will recall Squibbs Garage and car showroom at the junction with Victoria Road. After the business closed in 1986 the site was filled with houses and named Victoria Court. And across the road the Heart and Compasses pub, later renamed the Two Swans, was closed some 20 years ago and its site now filled with more housing. Population growth spells good news for the shopowners and the town’s many organisations but the increased amount of traffic it generates could be bad news for the alreadycongested town centre. The face of almost every shopping centre has changed down the years, partly in response to people’s changing shopping habits and partly to counter the competition from out-
of-town retail parks, mail order and internet shopping. Partly too to tap into an affluence undreamt of until the 1960s. Castle Cary is no exception, but despite the many changes it has been successful in retaining the charm and bustle of a thriving old market town. Roger Richards.
Welcome to Miah’s Castle
Don’t like sprouts? Then spice up your festive season with a curry. Christmas and New Year party bookings are now being taken for that special family gathering, catching up with friends or the office party. Miah’s is also an ideal location for birthday celebrations or any special occasion. They offer a takeaway service as well as an ambient, licensed restaurant, which offers a welcome evening out, with a romantic table for two or a group party of 46. Their authentic food is cooked to the highest standards using only the freshest ingredients.
ambitious improvement and extension scheme. The Main Hall roof has now been refurbished and repainted. Solar Panels and Batteries have also been installed and these will reduce the cost of electricity used at the Hall and help to reduce carbon emissions. The main building work started in October and this will provide a new, welcoming foyer and front entrance and upgraded toilets. The Hall’s Committee hopes that by the end of March 2027 the redeveloped hall will be finally finished as planned, equipped for the decades to come and able to serve the generations of local people who will use its facilities. The Committee needs more
hands on deck! The expanded Hall is now very busy and it takes a lot of local volunteer time and effort to operate. Whatever level of help you are able to offer will be welcome – dipping in occasionally or becoming a regular part of the team. For more information or to offer to help contact: volunteers@ caryfordhall.co.uk.
Caryford Community Hall roof works September 2026.
Inside Miah’s Castle.
Their approach to healthy cooking is that they don’t use any artificial colouring and try to minimise additives in their dishes. You can make reservations online and online orders receive 15% off over £30.
Caryford Community Hall
In August, Caryford Community Hall started Phase 3 of its
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A Super Market Town Christmas
Christmas shopping needn’t mean crowded car parks, or endless queues to return disappointing online gifts. In Castle Cary, free parking, a friendly welcome and a great mix of independent shops and eateries make mooching for a special present a pleasure. From everyday essentials to that special something, there’s plenty to discover while supporting the businesses that give our town its character. This year, two festive shopping evenings offer even more reasons to 'pop to Cary'. On 19 November, 5–8pm, enjoy late-night shopping followed by supper at one of Cary’s welcoming eateries. Then, on 10 December, 5.30–8pm, the town celebrates with shopping, dancing, singing, food and a visit from Father Christmas. Shopping locally brings another little reward, too. Pick up a Cary Loyalty Card from 19 November and collect a stamp whenever you spend £10 or more in participating shops. Complete ten stamps by Christmas Eve to enter the draw on 4 January 2027, with prizes donated by local businesses. You can fill as many cards as you like! We’re not a supermarket - we’re a super market town.
16 THE VISITOR November 2026
Cary’s Christmas
Join in the festive fun at Cary’s Christmas on Thursday 10h December from 5.30pm throughout Castle Cary town centre. Enjoy late night shopping, festive food and drink, a raffle, children’s activities, music & entertainment and community & charity stalls. This year The White Hart will be hosting Father Christmas, plus a Christmas Market and real reindeer! Please note various roads throughout the town will be closed from 4pm9.30pm. Please also support Cary’s Christmas coffee morning on Saturday 14th November at The Market House, raising vital funds to create the event in December. Enjoy delicious homemade cakes and bakes, fairtrade tea and coffee, make simple tree decorations and there’s a raffle. We look forward to seeing you there between 9.30am – 12noon.
The UK’s only licensed hardware shop?
There’s another reason to love Schimmel Hardware, high street Castle Cary, that you may not be aware of. I’m sure you know it already as the go-to place for everything from apple peelers to zinc primer … and have you tried the team out on the
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“Have you got …?” challenge?!! Yes, Cary’s fabulous hardware, homeware, kitchenware and garden supplies emporium is also the home to the Giggling Grape an independent wine shop with a drop of speakeasy charm. We are proud to cover most of life’s essentials – I mean, kindling and Chianti, batteries and Burgundy – all under one roof! To check out the Giggling Grape, go past house numbers and turn right at the key cutting machine. Discover over 200 wines from around the world, all with my ‘Good Sip’ of approval. Food and wine pairing is a speciality, as is choosing something special for a gift. My current faves are; a dangerously drinkable fresh, appley Crémant de Loire, £15.75; a juicy, soft red-fruited Pinot Noir, £13.25; and a tip-top Gruner Veltliner, an elegant and complex Austrian white, with citrus, orchard fruit, mineral and herbal flavours. Yum! £21.00. Wines available by the sip, the bottle and the case – with special festive offers coming up. • Hosted by the hardware team: Monday – Thursday, 10am – 5pm • Hosted by the Giggling Grape – with something to sip: Friday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
• Giggling Late: last Friday of the month, open for sipping by the glass or bottle til 9pm The UK’s only licensed hardware shop? Tell us if you know any different! I’d love to make sure you celebrate in style, so pop in and see me in the Tasting Room, look on-line or sign up to my Giggling Grapevine for special festive offers and exciting tastings!
residential sales and lettings, land and property auctions, and the sale of farms, land and equestrian property. Through our wider Cooper & Tanner team, clients can also access specialist advice on commercial sales and lettings, valuations, planning and development.
Meet the team at Cooper & Tanner, Castle Cary
At the heart of Castle Cary, the Cooper & Tanner team brings together a wealth of experience, local knowledge and a genuinely personal approach to property. Director Hannah Pole has been with the firm for nearly 30 years and works alongside Senior Negotiator Millie Cox, who brings extensive experience in residential property. Lisa Andrews, Christine Richardson and Linda Bear are an integral part of the team, helping with viewings, enquiries and sales progression, ensuring clients are supported throughout their move. And although she missed the team photograph, Jill Scott is very much part of the Castle Cary office, looking after our lettings clients and properties across the area. Between us, we offer considerable expertise in
With more than 118 years behind us, our breadth of expertise means you can keep all your property matters with one trusted local firm, with the right specialists working together when needed. Whether you’re thinking of selling or letting, have a property question or simply need some friendly advice, do pop into our Castle Cary office and say hello. We’d love to see you or give us a call on 01963 350327.
Needful Things
Castle Cary's Big Christmas on 10th Dec, wouldn't be the same without a visit to Needful Things
at 7 High Street. This magical store goes to town with their nostalgic yet quirky Christmas displays: Traditional Red. Green, & Gold baubles of course but also the most delightfully bedecked trees with every theme you can imagine. There's a tree for gardeners, with broccoli, trowels, snails!, and even greenhouses! There's one for Farmers, with red, green and blue tractors! There's Dinosaurs, Cup Cakes, Mice and Fairies! There's even a 'Royal Tree' with mice dressed as Kate & Wills and Charles & Camilla! The nutcracker tree is a favourite, with every size of nutcracker, bells & drums! Remember to look up above and down under every display as there are fabulous ideas for decking your halls, trees and mantlepieces … there's even ideas up on the ceiling! This year they have a ceiling full of Hot Air Balloons and Planes! Together with their wide range of Christmas cards, Crackers, Napkins and Gifts oh and gift wrap too; it's a one-stopshop for all things 'Christmas'. So whatever you need this Christmas, you need a visit to Needful Things; Castle Cary's very special Christmas Store.
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MOTORING Dimmer: More Than a Dump
Dimmer is a small hamlet near Castle Cary in Somerset. A walk through its lanes gives the impression that nothing much has happened here or indeed that it hasn’t changed very much. It has been known variously as Dimmer Dump due to the landfill site, Dimmer Camp after the Second World War ammunition site, and now the Dimmer Recycling Centre.
Dimmer more recently though has also become known for the Carymoor Environmental Trust Centre and Carymarsh Nature Reserve. Maureen Wincott, a keen local historian was born and brought up in Dimmer and inspired by her parents’ love of the place has researched its history from Bronze Age to contemporary times and discovered that Dimmer through the ages has often reflected many of the changes seen in the wider world in some very unique ways. This fully illustrated, fascinating history of Dimmer is priced at £12.99 and is available from The Bailey Hill Bookshop, Fore Street, Castle Cary or join the Cary History Society for the book launch and lecture by Maureen Wincott on Sunday 8th November at Caryford Hall. Tickets available at the Bailey Hill Bookshop.
18 THE VISITOR November 2026
VINTAGE Motorcycling with Rod Hann
I
will start this month with my picture. I recently visited a group of club members in Cornwall and one friend turned up in a three wheeled car which was something a little different. It is a Pembleton and the mechanical bits are taken from a Citroen 2CV car. The body is of monocoque construction and all in aluminium. The age of this one is taken from the donor car so the date of actual construction is not known. Pembleton cars were first made in 1999 at Bayton in Worcestershire. They are still in production making both three and four wheeled cars and the modern variants have very brisk performance. Price of course will depend on the specification you desire but they are a very well made product. This car goes very well and is comfortable and able to carry two people. My friend is a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast but he is rather smitten with the three wheeler and now takes it everywhere, but only on dry days as there is no weather protection. The body being aluminium will not rust and looks good in its polished state. Long may he enjoy it. I like it because this is another small British firm who is doing well in the automotive market. Events continue through November and with favourable weather and less crowded roads there is still much enjoyment to be had. The Somerset Section will have their club night at Cossington on the 5th and there will be a guest speaker (I hope that talk goes with a bang). On the 15th will be the Guy Fawkes Run from Cheddar Garden Centre. The Dorset Section have a Remembrance Run on the 7th (Saturday) and starts from the Old Brewery Café at Gillingham. Next they are scheduled to have a Quiz Evening for their club night on the 11th but the venue is not certain at this time. Lastly on the 26th will be another Club Lunch and again the venue is not fixed at this time. Finally the Wessex Veteran and Vintage Section will have its afternoon meeting at Silton on the 9th and
this will be a film show. As usual more details can be had by ringing 07813 248377. Another couple of dates for your diaries now as the next auction of motorcycles by Charterhouse will take place at the Haynes International Motor Museum on Thursday the 26th November. Always a good social day out with the opportunity to add something else to your collection. Secondly if modern and/or new machines are of more interest to you then you might fancy a trip to the NEC at Birmingham between the 21st and 29th of November to attend Motorcycle Live which is the biggest motorcycle show to be held in this country. Always interesting to see all the latest models and everything else connected with motorcycling. With riding events tailing off and bike meets having finished for this year, things have become less hectic. More time perhaps for preparing the bikes for their winter storage or perhaps getting around to those niggling repairs that have needed doing but not yet accomplished. There is always something to occupy both the mind and those idle hands. There is always time of course to take advantage of those nice days around this time of year when riding can be pure pleasure. For those of us of advancing years that can be any day of the week. It matters not as long as we all keep riding. I have recently been to a modern motorcycle showroom, I am not in the market for a new bike but had a few minutes to
spare for other reasons. I therefore naturally perused the flashy new bikes on offer and immediately thought, in my eyes, what an ugly bunch they were. Modern sports bikes are no good to me with crouched riding positions and minimal seat padding, I do not think I would last ten miles. The trail bikes are no good either. I am not short but I would need a pair of steps or a mounting block to get on the thing, and my days of off road riding are certainly over. All the modern bikes look bitty with nooks and crannies everywhere, they must be a nightmare to keep clean. I need a conventional upright machine so I can sit upright. I need a well padded seat and a pillion seat which is large enough to allow my wife to ride comfortably. I need an engine capable of cruising along in the 60 to 70mph region, not one able to do 150mph. Whilst in the showroom I was approached by a salesman who asked if he could help me. I promptly said ‘no’ as all the bikes on display were of no use to me whatsoever. I explained my needs and we toured the showroom and he eventually, and reluctantly, agreed that there was nothing suitable for my needs. I am sure he left me thinking what ‘a silly old fool’ I must be, but are my biking needs different to those of anyone else, I don’t think so. I am obviously in the minority of course and so concluded that the salesman was right, I am a ‘silly old fool’. But I still ride my bikes.
Yeovil Auto Tuning
CLASSIC CAR REPAIRS ● Repairs and Servicing Specialists Established OVER ● MOT Testing – Classes IV, V and VII also Motorhomes 30 YEARS ● Engine Tuning ● Brakes, Clutches, Gearboxes ● Competitive Rates ● Professional, Reliable, Friendly Service ● Specialising in VW T4 + T5 Vans ● Revo Engine Re-Mapping (VW and Audi Group)
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So, you think you know your Pop music, do you? By John Osborne
Answers can be found on page 28
1) Who had a 'Nightshift in 1985? 2) Which band released 'Money, Money, Money' 50 years ago on November 1st 1976?
Meet new people this autumn with Alison at Just Somerset Introductions
With the autumn colours all around us, it’s a lovely time of year to get out and about and it’s been quite mild for the time of year. Just Somerset Introductions offer one to one introductions and social events which you can attend across the group. We are an Introduction Agency for single people and younger members are welcome. People join us for different reasons, to make new friendships, dating and to meet that special someone. We
offer a confidential, personal & professional service. As an Area Manager I look after clients throughout their membership. I am delighted to say I have helped bring many happy couples together over the years. All members are interviewed in their own home and ID checked. For more information on how we work and testimonials of our successes, please look at our website www.justintroductions group.co.uk and give us a call! What are you waiting for! I look forward to hearing from you.
3) Who sang 'This is No Ordinary Love' and 'Your Love is King'? 4) Who sang about a 'Moonshadow' way back in 1970? 5) Who once declared “My name is not Susan”? (Clue - 1991) 6) Bob Segar and the … (what?) 7) Name the band who hit No.1 ten years ago in November 2016 with 'Shout Out To My Ex' 8) Which Beatle said 'You're Sixteen' and 'It Don't come Easy'? 9) Who is the great guitarist and long-time rocker who said 'Lay Down Sally' in 1977? 10) Whose seventeenth album was named 'Wrecking Ball'? Bonus Question: The Beatles started recording for which album in November 1966? (60 years ago!) Extra Bonus Question: How many performers made up the 'Do-wop' group 'The Five Satins' Great Quotes in Music (157) “Give me a laundry list and I'll set it to music” - Gioacchino Antonio Rossini
Sudoku by T.M.
Fill in the grid with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers 1 to 9 Answers to October Sudoku on page 28 Read Online: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk
THE BUTTERCROSS TEAROOMS
Market Place, Somerton (01458) 273168 Homemade Cakes & Scones Morning Coffee, Cream Teas Lunch Served 12 – 3pm Open: Tue – Sat 9am – 4pm
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Family Health with
With L.P-V
Jenna Evans
L
ast month we looked at fatigue and how many of us are feeling a wee bit knackered with one thing or another at the moment! I discussed a few reasons why this could be and suggested a few ways to track our tiredness and improve sleep. This month we'll be taking a closer look at the organelles (specialised structures) in our cells that are responsible for energy production – the mighty mitochondria! The mitochondria, often called 'powerhouses of the cells', are where the food molecules we eat and oxygen we breathe, get transformed into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) the body's 'energy currency'. They are found in almost all eukaryotic cells cells which have membrane bound nuclei and organelles. The mitochondria have an interesting history and are thought to have been formed in a symbiotic relationship from prokaryotic organisms (such as bacteria). This means they have their own DNA and divide independently from the host cell. We really are made up of lots of little beasties! A single cell can contain hundreds of mitochondria and they are especially prevalent in energy hungry tissues like the brain and muscles. Mitochondria produce ATP through a process called cellular respiration. There are quite a few stages to this process (and a few ways the body can actually make energy from our different macros of carbs, fats and protein). But for the sake of space the molecules from the foods are broken down and carried by shuttles (such as NADH, more on that next month) in the mitochondria, run through a process of donating electrons in the electron transport chain and come out as energy in the form of ATP and carbon dioxide. And boom, we’re bouncing around with a spring in our step, muscles pumping and neurons firing! So what can go wrong? Quite a lot! Firstly, of course, the quality of our nutritional input is going to have quite the impact. The usual provisos apply here – eat clean food and drink clean water. Being sedentary is known to negatively impact mitochondrial health and regular
20 THE VISITOR November 2026
Feasting and drinking in the Bayeux Tapestry
Mitochondria graphic. Image: 3d_man/Shutterstock.com.
moderate exercise improves it. Poor blood sugar management is a factor, with the Mediterranean and low glycaemic diets often being recommended. Certain medications impact this process too. Many drugs may interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients that are the essential cofactors in the creation of ATP. The relationship between statins and CoQ10 is a case in point here and why many people supplement with CoQ10 when they take a statin. We have a lovely booklet to giveaway in Ceres that covers the topic of these medication and nutrient interactions, so do pick up a copy when you're next instore. Environmental toxins are another biggie. We live in a soup of chemicals that our ancestors never had to deal with and tests on umbilical cords in babies have shown the presence of over 280 different chemicals including pesticides and pollutants. It's horrifying to me that our bodies are assaulted in this way before we're even born. Let's all do what we can to clean up our world by being mindful of the cosmetics, cleaning supplies, household textiles, clothes and foods we all use. Next month I'll take a look at the nutrient and herbal helpers that can support our little powerhouses but so as not to end in gloom (!) – our bodies are amazingly resilient, they can and do adapt surprisingly well. We just need to be more gentle and loving custodians of them and the Earth for that matter! See you next month. © Jenna Evans 2026. •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.
I
nterest in the recent loan of the historic Bayeux Tapestry has reached fever pitch, dominating the news and social media channels for days. Since its arrival, more than one person of my acquaintance has mentioned, rather tongue in cheek, that given it is believed to have been made in or near Canterbury in Kent, perhaps we should keep it! The diplomatic fallout of such a suggestion hardly bears thinking about. I was fortunate to have seen the tapestry during a school trip many years ago, and for over 20 years was lucky enough to have a holiday home just a short distance from Bayeux, which proved a popular destination for visitors. Notwithstanding the focus on the numerous scenes of battle, it would be remiss of me to neglect depictions of the feasting and drinking that takes place; after all, men would not be fit to fight without some sustenance. In the Bayeux Tapestry, the image of the main feasting scene is thought to have holy symbolism; like a Last Supper, with William's half-brother, Odo, Bishop of Bayeux, as the Christlike figure seated at the centre of the table, raising his hand to bless the food and drink, effectively granting divine approval to William's invasion. The meal scene depicts Norman soldiers roasting whole spatchcocked birds on skewers, eating fish, and drinking wine, with improvised tables made from their own chainmail shields as improvised tables and sideboards to hold and distribute the food. One soldier blows a horn to summon others to the meal and diners are shown using small knives to cut and handle their portions. Stews are also prepared in cauldrons after foraging pigs and cattle from the countryside and while regular soldiers and attendants eat roasted poultry or meat around the camp, the bishop's table features fish served on simple bowls. Medieval writers often blamed a lack of piety or physical indulgence for a military defeat, making the story of English drinking a convenient explanation for their loss. Some
medieval writers, including the 12th-century William of Malmesbury, claimed that the English lost because they spent the night before the battle drinking and singing. By contrast, the Normans spent the night confessing their sins and praying, although William did not win the Battle of Hastings simply because of this. The Normans primarily drank ale, cider, and wine, with choices depending heavily on social class and wealth. Wine and shallow drinking vessels are depicted and Duke William and his noblemen are shown enjoying wine during the meal after arriving at Pevensey and Hastings. Wine was an expensive, high-status import enjoyed almost exclusively by French-speaking Norman lords, wealthy merchants, and high-ranking clergy. Historical context notes that large quantities of wine brought on the Norman crossing helped sustain the army. The invading Normans certainly planted vines and the Domesday Books of 1086 and 1087 record 45 distinct locations, nearly all concentrated in south-eastern England, where the soil and climate were most favourable. The Domesday Book of 1086 also recorded English vineyards as part of King William I’s survey of the land's productive economic resources. Compiled in Latin, vineyards were explicitly logged and documented under the term ‘vinea’. Rather than treating wine as a mere luxury, the royal commissioners treated vineyards precisely like mills, fisheries, and woodlands—as taxable, incomegenerating assets. The entry for Stonehouse in Gloucestershire states that The Domesday Book didn't just log the existence of vines; it specified their agricultural status and whether they were actually producing wine; recording exactly how many amphorae (measures) of wine a vineyard was expected to yield each year. The survey systematically tracked who owned the vineyards, mainly the King and his nobles, with the remainder being attached to monasteries; French abbots and monks brought over by William the Conqueror possessed the viticulture expertise required to produce wine for religious sacraments and noble dining tables. The
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Bayeux Tapestry feasting. Image: Isogood_patrick/Shutterstock.com.
Archbishop of Canterbury was also a noted vineyard owner. Medieval wine often spoiled within a year, so it was frequently spiced or mixed into recipes like Hippocras to mask off-flavours. Hippocras is a historical type of mulled wine from the medieval period, though it has a few unique preparation methods. Both trace back to ancient Greece and Rome, where spiced wine was used as both a winter warmer and a health tonic. Modern mulled wine is almost always served hot. Hippocras could be served warm or cold. Like mulled wine, red or white wine is traditionally used for Hippocras, along with sweetener and aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Hippocras was steeped with spices and then heavily strained through a conical cloth bag called a "Hippocratic sleeve" to remove all grit and sediment before serving. Modern mulled wine is typically just simmered with whole spices and ladled out. Hippocras is still made today in small quantities by specialty producers and as a local tradition, but here is a recipe you can make at home.
Ingredients
1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (or white wine) 1/3 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or honey)
3 cinnamon sticks, lightly broken 10g fresh ginger, chopped or bruised (or 3/4 tsp ground ginger) 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves 1/2 teaspoon whole cardamom pods Pinch of nutmeg
Method
Pour the wine into a saucepan. Add the sugar and heat gently just until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil, or the alcohol will evaporate. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in all the spices. Cover and let the mixture steep and infuse for at least 4 hours (up to 24 hours for a stronger spice flavour). Strain the wine thoroughly through a fine cloth, cheesecloth, or coffee filter to remove all spice particles. Serve cool, at room temperature, or gently warmed. Ale was however the staple drink for the vast majority of people, including peasants, serfs, and labourers. Ordinary people drank at local alehouses, which were often just a neighbour's home indicated by an "ale stake" (a pole with an evergreen branch) outside the door. The Normans also helped to popularise and expand cidermaking after 1066 by introducing
acidic and tannic cider apple varieties, along with advanced pressing technology. In Normandy, specific local bittersweet and sharp cider apples from regions like the Pays D’Auge are used; these are closely tied to local terroir and regulations; excess production frequently goes into making Calvados brandy. By the 12th century, cider production had taken root in English regions like Kent and Sussex, reflecting deep-rooted northern traditions. There are a number of key differences between English and Normandy ciders. Normandy cider features higher tannins from regional bittersweet apples with lower overall acidity, giving it a lighter, smooth, rounded mouthfeel, whereas English cider often has a punchier, sharper tang due to higher acid levels. Normandy cider relies on a special clarification technique called keeving, which strips nutrients from the apple juice before fermentation, stopping the wild yeast naturally before all the sugar converts to alcohol, leaving a naturally sweet drink without artificial back-sweetening. Normandy cider usually ranges from 3% to 5% ABV, whereas English cider is stronger, often ranging from 5% to over 7% ABV. French cider also comes explicitly categorised by residual
sugar—doux (sweet, under 3% ABV), demi-sec (semi-dry, 3–5% ABV), and brut (dry, around 5% ABV). Normandy cider is lightly sparkling (often labelled cidre bouché, sealed with a cork and cage like champagne) and traditionally served chilled in a ceramic bowl or wide cup. Inviting a few friends over for a comparative tasting can be fun. Short of taking a shopping trip across the pond to buy Normandy ciders, there are a number of UK based options available:Majestic Wine - artisanal Sassy Cidre Brut. Abel & Cole - organic cider from Domaine des Cinq Autels. Vintage Roots - organic Cinq Autels Normandy Cider. Vinatis - Cidre de Normandie IGP Brut - Cidre Fournier. Preferring a stronger shot of alcohol myself, one of my favourite beverages is the apple brandy Calvados. Until his death some years ago, I had a neighbour who made his own, which came out at a whopping 70%ABV! Here in the UK it can be obtained both online and in-store through specialist online merchants like The Whisky Exchange and major drinks retailers like Majestic Wine. Sainsbury's stocks their ownbrand Taste the Difference VSOP Calvados, while other supermarkets often stock Père Magloire. THE VISITOR November 2026 21
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Five home checks that could save Brits thousands this winter
AS temperatures begin to drop, Brits are being encouraged to prepare their homes for the colder weather ahead. Cold, wet and windy weather can cause a variety of problems, with frozen pipes, leaking roofs and blocked gutters potentially causing expensive damage. To help prepare, Tesco Insurance is sharing five simple checks homeowners can make to get their property ready for the colder months. Alex Cross, Chief Customer Officer at Tesco Insurance, said:
“A little preparation before winter arrives can go a long way when it comes to protecting your home. “Some of the problems we associate with colder weather can start with something relatively small, whether it’s a blocked gutter, a loose roof tile or a pipe that isn’t properly protected. “Taking some time to check your home now can help you spot potential problems early and make sure you’re better prepared when temperatures do drop.” Below are Tesco Insurance’s five key things for homeowners and tenants to check this autumn:
Frozen pipes can be a nightmare in winter. Image: Radovan1/Shutterstock.com.
22 THE VISITOR November 2026
1. Protect your pipes from the cold: When temperatures fall below freezing, water inside exposed pipes can freeze and expand, potentially causing the pipe to burst. Frozen pipes don’t just present a risk of bursting. They can also temporarily interrupt water supply and heating, causing disruption during colder weather. Simple preventative measures such as insulating exposed pipework and keeping the home heated at a low temperature during cold spells can help reduce the risk. It’s also worth knowing where your stopcock is and checking if you can turn it off, so you can quickly stop the water supply if a pipe does burst. 2. Give your roof and gutters a once-over: Autumn leaves and debris can quickly build up in gutters and downpipes, preventing rainwater from draining away properly. Clear any obvious blockages and look out for signs of damage or loose guttering. It’s also worth safely checking your roof for visibly slipped, cracked or missing tiles that could come loose in heavy rain or strong winds. Regular maintenance is also important, as damage caused by gradual wear and tear may not be covered by home insurance. Addressing issues such as loose tiles, damaged guttering or signs of deteriorating early can help prevent more significant problems later. If you spot anything that needs closer
inspection or repair, use a qualified professional rather than attempting to access the roof yourself. 3. Check your boiler and heating: The middle of a cold snap is the last time you want to discover there’s a problem with your heating. It’s a good idea to test your heating before colder weather arrives to make sure everything is working as expected. During particularly cold spells, keeping your heating on at a low temperature for short periods may also help reduce the risk of frozen pipes. It’s also worth checking whether any radiators need bleeding and making sure you know how your heating controls work before you really need them. 4. Look for signs of damp or water getting in: Small leaks can become much bigger problems during periods of persistent rain, so look around your home for early warning signs. Damp patches, peeling paint, staining around windows or ceilings and musty smells can all be signs that water is getting somewhere it shouldn’t. Check seals around windows and doors too, and deal with any obvious problems before wetter weather makes them worse. 5. Check your home insurance: Even with the best preparation, your home can still get damaged unexpectedly, so take a few minutes to check what your home insurance covers. Make sure your policy and personal details are up to date and check what protection you have for common winter problems such as escape of water and storm damage, including any limits or exclusions that apply. It’s also useful to know where your policy details and insurer’s contact information are kept, so you can find them quickly if you do need to make a claim. If you have Home Emergency cover; it’s also worth reviewing what services and incidents are included, so you’re clear on the support available during the colder months and you can check that you have the level of protection that’s right for you. For more information on home insurance, visit the website: www.tescoinsurance.com/homeinsurance.
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Get spring-ready with LPSS
Whilst the winter months may not feel like a time to think about shading, now is the ideal time to plan shading for your garden and home, before the spring rush begins.
spring and summer can become much longer, especially for madeto-measure products and
professional installation. By booking early, you avoid the seasonal queue and ensure your shading is fitted and ready to use when the first sunny days arrive. Good shading makes outdoor spaces more comfortable, helps protect furniture and flooring from strong sunlight, and can
keep rooms cooler during hot spells. Preparing now means you can relax later, enjoy your garden sooner and make the most of every bright, warm day from spring onwards. Contact us now for our off season promotions on external shading and be Spring ready!
Whether you are considering a patio awning, pergola, veranda shade or blinds to reduce heat and glare indoors, arranging everything now gives you time to choose the right style, fabric and finish without pressure. As the weather warms, demand rises quickly and lead times during
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24 THE VISITOR November 2026
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Poison Gardens: Where Beauty Can Be Deadly With Julie Haylock of Sandhurst Garden Design
P
oison gardens have their roots in the physic gardens of the 16th and 17th centuries, cultivating plants for medicinal purposes with areas set aside for poisonous species. As you walk towards the entrance of The Poison Garden at Alnwick in Northumberland, the imposing wrought-iron gates issue a stark warning: “These Plants Can Kill,” with skull-andcrossbones reinforcing their message. Inside the garden, under strict government licence, is a collection of more than one hundred toxic, intoxicating, and narcotic plants. A guide tells visitors not to touch, taste or smell anything - a sensible rule when specimens look deceptively familiar to our own gardens, hedgerows, and woodland. Among the most dangerous is monkshood, or wolfsbane. Every part of this plant is poisonous, particularly the roots, and if ingested can be fatal within hours.
Rhododendrons seem less sinister, yet their leaves contain grayanotoxins that disrupt the nervous system. And another interesting rhododendron fact is that when they grow in large numbers, they kill the soil around them so only they will grow. Other plants demonstrate how the same chemistry within them can kill or cure. Yew clippings are poisonous to people and animals if eaten, but compounds derived from it are used by pharmaceutical companies in treatments for cancer. Foxglove is toxic throughout, yet it gives us the medicine digitalis-derived drugs for certain heart conditions, and opium poppies give us morphine, an invaluable painkiller that also demands careful control. That tension between danger and usefulness explains our fascination with poisonous plants. Poison became a favourite murderous plot twister used by the writer Agatha Christie in her novels. It also entered the history of espionage in 1978, when Bulgarian dissident Georgi Markov was fatally attacked in London with a ricin-filled pellet delivered by a modified umbrella; Ricin comes from the seeds of the
castor bean plant, and is a slow acting poison taking several days for symptoms to show. Poison gardens therefore deserve more than a thrillseeker’s glance. Under controlled conditions, they teach us a respect for
nature’s power. Their enduring lesson is simple: It is the dose of the plant that makes the poison, reminding us that the boundary between remedy and toxin is often perilously thin. Until next time, Happy Gardening!
If you enjoyed this month's poem from Andrew his new book 'A Further Selection of Poems' is out now and available in local stockists, including Waterstones in Yeovil, Palmers Garden Centre, Yeovil and Folde Bookshop in Shaftesbury or by calling 07899 710168.
Gateway to The Poison Garden at Alnwick in Northumberland.
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The
Pub Pages
BE E R & S K IT T L ES P. A. BAXTER
I
would like to think that both my readers would find that the regular reports on skittle tournaments from the ABM club in Wallingford will be delighted that a tournament is coming to Somerset. Yes, it's true, Calum Higgins from the Wanstrow league has thrown himself into organising an event at the Conservative club in Shepton Mallet with great alacrity – it's so good to hear all that enthusiasm! I have the dubious privilege of being Captain of one of the teams that was invited, and am in the process of persuading enough of the team (6 needed) that they wish to spend an afternoon and evening playing the beautiful game on strange alleys against teams from leagues they may not even have heard of! It'll be four hands per game, and I believe we will have six games each. Here are the participants, 'Wessex Plus' and 'It Is What It Is' (Yeovil Sports league) 'Jolly Floppers' (Bruton) 'The Mighty Quacks' (Trowbridge) 'Plenty In The Tank' (Swindon) 'ABM Club' (Wallingford) 'Deep In Cider' (Wanstrow/Shepton). So assuming there will be no plague, pestilence, or we have all been nuked before the end of
26 THE VISITOR November 2026
November, there will be twentyone games on two alleys from 1200 midday until 2200 hours, there should be plenty of fun, the bar will do well, and the local takeaways will be doing extra trade too. The big question is: have we got the stamina to survive? Only time will tell! So do come along and support this what I believe to be the first ever local tournament for skittling in Somerset (unless you can prove me wrong!) (Take a look at the poster below). We're heading toward Christmas and the latest CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2027 is now with me. It's quite a tome, and appears to be a lot thicker than usual, containing not just great pubs for us to visit but details of the breweries we are so fortunate to have in our green and pleasant land. Also, there are some interesting and fact filled pages on beer styles, how it's produced and what to look out for. I'm delighted to report that a few of our regular / irregular haunts have again made it in the pages, as well as The Quicksilver Mail in Yeovil, The King's Arms in Thornford, The Digby Tap in Sherborne, The White Hart in Yetminster and The Mitre in Sandford Orcas. I'm also delighted to see The Fox in Corscombe is in there, particularly as there has been some opening and closing going on over the last ten years or so (if my memory serves me well). I'm especially pleased to see the skittle alley gets a mention, and the hint that whilst it is closed on a Monday, it will open in the winter when the league is in action. See? The games 'get them in'! I have a few memories of visiting this pub as a young telephone engineer when we were installing new equipment in the local exchange (actually a couple miles away) and being led astray by more senior engineers. Not my fault, honest.
My old mate Pete Lambden at the Quicksilver Mail has always expressed his delight to me at being in the guide, of course, but he does also express a little regret that other pubs in the immediate area do not get into the guide. The reason? Well, when more pubs are recommended, then more ale fans are likely to pay visits as they can do a tour! I first had a 'Dawn of Realisation' moment when the owner of an antique shop pointed this out to me, that when there are several together, then potential customers are more likely to stop and visit them all. This is a message to all CAMRA members (and even non-members) that when you visit a pub, please do the beer-scoring on the CAMRA web-site. It's VERY EASY and could well mean a lot to your favourite pubs being in the GBG! Other pubs in the Somerset area
that have appeared in these columns are The Muddled Man in West Chinnock, The Brewers Arms at South Petherton, The King William Inn at Crewkerne and The Cross Keys at Lydford on Fosse. All highly recommended by your favourite scribe! How many pubs in the guide do you visit? The GBG would certainly make a great present for your beer loving partner! (Footnote: each county has the breweries listed. How many do you think Somerset has? Answer at the end of this column*) Jeremy Clarkson has made the news on multiple occasions and whilst we all have opinions about what he does, I do my best to remain neutral until I can develop my own. Being in the farming or hospitality trade are the very last things I would ever do and surely we must all be estimable to someone who has
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Hawkstone - yes please!
the cojones to launch himself into both? I find it somewhat irksome that so much enmity can be displayed to someone whose public image is displayed as being a less than pleasant person. Moving rapidly on, I have noted that some people have even posted their bills for Sunday roasts online, and frankly, I have not seen anything
extortionate (despite the implication) other than the beer, (Hawkstone 'Wildthing' Lager at 4.8%ABV) which I would not purchase anyway. Interestingly, at the time of writing, The Quicksilver Mail has a keg of said lager, being sold at a lower price as a promotion, it's still in excess of six quid/pint (or £48/gallon if you wish, making even petrol look cheap). Meanwhile, I was presented with a four-pack of Hawkstone Black by a railway enthusiast friend (pictured) Four cans of 4.2%ABV stout which was much appreciated. I can't say I can go overboard with the same enthusiasm as we both have for railways, although it is pleasant but lacking a little on the finish. Perhaps I notice this due to the finish so prevalent in Guinness and other stouts, or is it because we've been spoiled by all the
Portable 'Toads' game!
fabulous stouts we've sunk from around the world. The jury is still out on that but I would definitely drink it again – particularly if it's free! (Just send some to the Visitor office – thank you in anticipation) Cheers! * Answer: There are 29 independent breweries in Somerset! © P.A Baxter 2026 theskittlealley@gmail.com
Vinny doesn’t eat out much
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They Say
High-flying hopes in Castle Cary
The November 1996 Visitor gave advance notice of an innovative event being planned for 1997. ‘Make a note in your diary,’ it said, ‘of the Castle Cary Kite Festival on Sunday 14th September 1997. It’s a long way ahead, but as it’s the first one there is a lot of planning and preparation to be done.’ It explained that ‘anyone can make a kite and fly it at the festival’ and ‘local schools have been invited to take part and will no doubt come up with some innovative technical wizardry’. Apparently the organisers were ‘already looking for sponsors for the prizes’ and had invited local businesses ‘to have a kite-flying prize named after your firm or organisation’. Did the festival ever get off the ground, I wonder, and if so, was it ever repeated.
Mere displays new vitality
‘For those who know and love Mere there is a new vitality in the air – this small country town is alive and well.’ So said a feature in the November 1996 Visitor, reporting that ‘its business community has been swelled by the addition of several new enterprises’. Among them, ‘the corner of Angel Lane now boasts the Angel Café where shoppers and visitors can be sustained, rested and refreshed’ and ‘the Ship Hotel has new owners who are promoting the fine old building as a conference centre’. In addition, ‘a new branch of estate agents Gilyard Scarth has opened in Salisbury Street opposite the premises of Southern Insurance and Mortgage Services which have just been appointed agents for Bath Building Society‘. The report noted that ‘most of the shopfronts in Salisbury Street have recently been repainted and it is looking particularly bright and well cared for’, and that the newly-restored shopfront of R & M Finan’s antique business overlooking The Square had been entered for a conservation award.
International folk in Yeovil
Yeovil readers of a certain age might well remember that in the 28 THE VISITOR November 2026
1990s the town housed an unusual independent record shop on South Western Terrace. The November 1996 Visitor reported that ‘Whole Wide World specialises in folk music, not only from Britain but worldwide’, including bluegrass, cajun, oldtimey and blues. ‘The choice of CDs and tapes is vast,’ it said, ‘and owner Dave is a mine of information on folk song and dance events on the circuit’. The article noted that in addition ‘there are folk music tutorial books, replacement strings and a few musical instruments such as drums and whistles’ as well as ladies clothing from India and Asia and ‘a host of unusual gifts, jewellery and a range of greetings cards’. And at the back of the shop was ‘Another Roadside Attraction, a music café run by Dave’s partner Megan’ where baguettes, cakes and a selection of teas and coffees were available. ‘The café is a meeting place for old and young alike and customers are encouraged to mix’ and ‘there is a message board for friends to leave messages and notepads and pens are provided’. Well worth remembering with affection, methinks.
Lottery aids Gillingham museum
Gillingham’s new museum opened on 23rd October 1996 in the recently-constructed library building opposite Waitrose on Chantry Fields. The November Visitor recorded that the opening ‘marks the culmination of two years work by the Local History
Society’s committee members and volunteer helpers as well as professional designers and conservationists’. It added that it was ‘funded by grants from local authorities, charitable trusts and business sponsorship as well as private donations and the first grant to a local museum by the National Lottery’. The reported total cost was about £160,000.
Anniversary event at Wincanton hotel
To celebrate 50 years of Holbrook House being a hotel the directors, management and staff held a reception for local businesses on 11th October 1996. The Visitor’s reporter wrote in the November issue that ‘an excellent cold buffet was provided for the guests and during the evening I had the opportunity to peruse the restaurant menu and the menus available over the Christmas and New Year period, which show flair and imagination and should ensure a full house’. The report noted that ‘a complete management reshuffle took place earlier this year and Giovanni Testagrossa was appointed as hotel manager. Since taking up his post a major refurbishment programme is already under way with the house and garden gradually being restored to their former glory. The reception hall with its log fire is warm and welcoming and the reception rooms tastefully decorated with work by local artists attractively displayed.’ It’s now 80 years and worthy of another celebration. Roger Richards
That Happy BIG BIRTHDAY to Mike Stone, the Penn HILL Yeovil skater, from SHERBORNE from you know who. That plans for a Defence-Related factory near Semley are causing concern for local residents. That full marks go to The Quicksilver Mail in Yeovil for their helpfulness and attention to detail, whatever the occasion. That local businessman Alex Korom-Percy has launched an initiative to ‘Shop Shaftesbury’ after concerns over Dorset Council’s plans to introduce loading restrictions on the High Street. That a Blue Moon was seen passing, more than once, whilst seated in the window of the Corner Kitchen Cafe in Crewkerne. That it is hoped by Donhead's local community that The Forester Pub will soon be under new ownership. That everyone has a political opinion ... even the talking reindeers in a local Garden Centre. That a camera is planned for Shepton Beauchamp to catch the owner who lets their dog foul and doesn’t pick it up.
ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ 1) Commodores 2) ABBA 3) Sade 4) Cat Stevens 5) Whitney Houston 6) … Silver Bullet Band 7) Little Mix 8) Ringo Starr 9) Eric Clapton 10) Bruce Springsteen Bonus Question: Sgt Pepper with Strawberry Fields Forever, which then didn't actually end up on the album!. Extra Bonus Question: Four! They never recorded or performed as five.
Solution to October Sudoku
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Groundworks
Dave Hoddinott
FULLY QUALIFIED BUILDER EST 1973 NEW BUILDS - EXTENSIONS - BATHROOMS KITCHENS - LOG CABINS ... and more! No Job Too Big or Too Small
Tel: (01963) 440256
TV & AUDIO SPECIALISTS SINCE 1968
● SALES ● SERVICING ● REPAIRS ● INSTALLATIONS Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EW Tel: 01935 813451 www.goddenandcurtis.co.uk
December issue deadline: 16th November To ADVERTISE call 01963 351256 THE VISITOR November 2026 29
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Classified Ads Send details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, BA9 0BP or email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk. 30p per word (£5 min). Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit/Debit Card.
Storage
Personal
STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles. Lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692
MARTIN 68, would like to meet lady 6075 at The Swan Sturminster Newton. Friday night or Saturday night. Box No: 110
CONTAINER Storage 24/7 access. Outstanding rates. North Dorset. Tel: 07947 581541
RICHARD, looking for a French or Russian speaking lady companion. Box No: 111
Wanted DAVE BUYS ALL TYPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables. Daves Tools, Est. 1989. Tel: 01935 428975 SANDYS Warehouse, Gillingham 01747 822077. Wanted - collections of Hornby, Corgi, Dinky. Cash paid for right models. Barracuda West Industrial Estate, Camp Road, Henstridge, BA8 0TN, sandysremovals@aol.com SUBBUTEO wanted esp 1970s teams. mrchrisallen@aol.com 07774 788791. 01344 453370
Prize Crossword No. 479
Set by Frank Butler SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 5522, Castle Cary, Somerset BA9 0BP – to arrive by Monday 16th November 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. Do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.
Reply to a Box by quoting the Box Number to The Visitor, PO BOX 5522, Castle Cary, BA9 0BP.
For Sale D E V O N - A S H WAT E R , D e t a c h e d bungalow. 4 bedrooms, indoor Swimming Pool, £425,000. Enquiries: Bond Oxborough Phillips Estate Agents, Holsworthy Office: 01409 254238.
Damian Hoddinott PLUMBING SERVICES
December deadline: 16th November E X - D I S P L AY S H E D S . S t a b l e s , 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
01963 441232 07971 676111
Clues Across: 1. Sweet AA topic [7] 5. Stamp money after time [7] 9. Jumped headless into crash [5] 10. Mix sand pairs with Europeans [9] 11. Er, ten deer came back in! [9] 12. Feeling of weariness at E.U. inn [5] 13. Twenty quires after five hundred - it’s a nightmare perhaps [5] 15. Allowing the Queen to come in gives a manuscript style [9] 18. Trace, time to change feet into metres [9] 19. She takes small American article [5] 21. Locust-tree run out in taxi [5] 23. Patrick and Ronald get older with regular custom [9] 25. Stirring in Radium, Tex? [9] 26. Allah arranged way of killing for meat [5] 27. “Some sect,” as I say with lengthened vowel [7] 28. I stared at furious rants [7] Clues Down: 1. Recording medium (crimson) came to the point [7] 2. Post shut up about lace on man’s head [9 3. Should tough be changed? [5] 4. European country transported to the southern hemisphere by aluminium insert [9] 5. Softly put down tartan [5]
6. Lacking courage like a shaven hedgehog [9] 7. Some soap Ron used to keep clothes clean [5] 8. Before northing in grid reference, notes insect’s defence [7] 14. Boils exam result where post arrives [9] 16. What does tangled net matter? It’s what the doctor ordered [9] 17. Put in salt lined arrangement [9] 18. Take spice and ram in knotted threadwork [7] 20. Irritates in the Isle of Wight [7] 22. Send back stop-watch [5] 23. Runs from jug, first pint for us [5] 24. Mummy loses head: That’s different! [5]
Solution to Crossword 478
The winner of the October issue is Mrs A Walmsley of Sherborne who chose to spend the £15 Voucher at Ward & Sibley, Yeovil.
WANTED
AIR RIFLES & AIR PISTOLS FOR PRIVATE COLLECTION ANY MAKE OR MODEL, ANY CONDITION
Tel: 07970 742471 30 THE VISITOR November 2026
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