The Visitor Magazine Issue 382 September 2015

Your local independent monthly journal  01963 351256 www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Issue 382 September 2015

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In Passing ...

I

F SOMERSET COUNTY COUNCIL is to be believed, the county has around 3,700 miles of public rights-of-way – footpaths, bridleways and byways.

Laid end to end they would stretch from Visitorland to New York! Add to them the many designated areas of open countryside where people can now walk freely as a result of the controversial Countryside and Rights of Way Act and clearly there is no shortage of opportunities for those who want to escape the public roads and enjoy our great outdoors. And judging by the number of walkers I’ve seen this summer, they’re not just locals out for a breath of fresh air and exercise or simply walking their dogs. Many are visitors exploring our diverse landscapes or tackling long-distance routes like the MacMillan Way and the River Parrett Trail – and spending their money here on food and overnight accommodation.

For them the countryside is a leisure facility but for countless species of wildlife, plants as well as animals and birds, it’s their natural habitat. And for many people it’s their livelihood. It’s where they grow their crops and graze their livestock, where they plant and manage their woodland for timber, where they raise game birds and organise shoots, where they train and exercise horses, where they quarry for minerals. And like any workplace, these all pose potential risks to people nearby who do not abide by whatever advice or instruction they are given and take the necessary precautions.

Every year there are reports of farm animals being worried or killed, of ground nesting birds being disturbed, of freshlyseeded fields being churned up, of crops being trampled, of fires in fields being started by picnickers, of gates being left open and allowing livestock to get out. The first three are almost always the result of dogs being unleashed and allowed to run free, far from the line of the right-of-way. And it could well be the same thoughtless minority of walkers who are responsible for the second three.

Reports, too, of walkers being attacked by cattle, of paths being obstructed by

barbed wire, electric fences and overgrowth, of dangerous broken stiles, of routes being unclear because of inadequate or nonexistent waymarking. While most landowners co-exist happily with walkers, a minority seems hellbent on deterring them from using the rights-of-way across their land. And the county council apparently doesn’t have the resources to ensure that every path has a safe, walkable surface and is well signposted. Perhaps there are just too many rights-of-way.

Some people argue that what’s needed is a simple code of conduct for countryside users and comprehensive guidelines for farmers and others whose businesses operate in the countryside, but both already exist and are publicised in various free leaflets and booklets emanating from the county council and The Countryside Agency. The publicity clearly needs to be increased considerably, and so does the enforcement of them.

NN.

Advertising Deadlines

October Issue published Thursday 24th September Deadline Friday 11th September

PO Box 1, Castle Cary Somerset BA7 7BG

Ltd.

Tel: (01963) 351256, 351998 Email: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk Website: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk facebook.com/thevisitormagazine twitter.com/thevisitormag

Proprietor, Accounts & Subscriptions Helen Dunion Production Manager Jeff Farrow

Advertisement Manager & Features Editor Michelle Trulock © The Visitor Ltd. 2015

(Items marked ©GT are the copyright of Geoff Thompson)

CONTENTS

Our FRONT COVER is almost entirely due to Wet Nose Day

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASSIFIED - 50 ANTIQUES & COLLECTING - 9 BUSINESS - 10

CROSSWORD - 50 GARDENING - 29

HAM HILL COUNTRY - 41

HOBBIES & PASTIMES - 14 HOUSE & HOME - 32

LEISURE & TRAVEL + Competition - 17

LETTERS - 5

LOOKING GOOD & FEELING FINE - 22 NOTE TO ADVERTISERS Advertisements are accepted subject to our standard terms and conditions as printed on our rate card, available upon request. We cannot guarantee any specific page or position, but will always do our best to comply with clients’ wishes.

ARTWORK Artwork & design by our production department and photographs taken by our photographers are the copyright of The Visitor Ltd.

Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should send uncompressed TIFs, JPEGs or PDFs, 300 dpi minimum if actual size, or at a higher resolution if smaller than size required, along with a hard copy print-out.

For advertisement sizes see our Rate Card.

The views expressed in articles & letters contributed to this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

MENTIONED in DISPATCHES - 6

MOTORING ... At Your Service - 20 MUSIC for the MONTH - 18 NOTICE BOARD - 47 PAPERCHASE - 46

PHONE-A-FIRM - 47

PUBS including WINE & DINE - 42 REPAIRS & RESTORATION - 40

TASTE from the WEST COUNTRY - 11 THEY SAY - 44

WEDDINGS - 23 WE HEAR - 6

Drawings by GEOFF THOMPSON

THE VISITOR September 2015 3

ANDREW BARCLAY TRADITIONAL FAMILY BUTCHERS 45 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU Tel: 01963 34880 Email: andrewbarclaybutchers@gmail.com

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ORDERS TAKEN FOR OUR MEAT FROM NORTH CADBURY VILLAGE SHOP & MAIDEN BRADLEY VILLAGE SHOP WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS

4 THE VISITOR September 2015

Letters to the Editor

What, No Atlas?

Sir, I found another beauty of bad copy in this week’s Yeovil edition of the Western Gazette, I’m sure you may have already seen it and marked it for ‘Paperchase’.

On page 11 in the item regarding the retirement of Mr Graham Cole, it boldly says that Mr Cole relocated to Rio de Janeiro to direct the company’s South African operations.

Now Mr Cole is a very able fellow, and I’m sure is well accustomed to conducting long distance business, but it seems a bit odd to me that he should choose to do this with the Atlantic Ocean in between his work and his home.

Do the Western Gazette reporters not have access to an atlas, I wonder, or are they just so unqualified in basic global geography that they think Brazil is in South Africa?

As you often say – where, oh where, are the proof readers of old?

I have kept the original article if you did not see it yourself. I can easily scan it in and mail it to you.

Keep up the good work with the excellent Visitor.

Edwin Guttridge Ashfield Park Martock

 Oh, yes we saw it, and so did many others! Ed.

Dog tired of high prices?

CROSSROADS PET SUPPLIES VISIT

SUPPLIERS OF

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... all at competitive prices Ample FREE PARKING outside the Door Find us at Forward Garage on the main A30 between Sherborne & Yeovil

Tel: 01935 411859 .

A VERY SPECIAL VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY

Become a SAMARITAN and you become part of a superb local team that offers emotional support 24/7

Find out more about our exceptional training programme and the chance to make a real difference at a VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION on one of these dates: Thursday 22nd October, 7.00pm • Saturday 31st October, 10.00am Thursday 26th November, 7.00pm • Saturday 12th December, 10.00am We are keen to hear from anyone over 18 with time in the evenings and weekends. Call 01935 414015 and let us know when you are coming or email joinyeovilsams@gmail.com

Yeovil Samaritans, 25 The Park, Yeovil • www.samaritans.org You could change someone’s life – maybe your own

WETNOSE DAY Friday 25th September

National Wetnose Day is an annual event held to raise funds and awareness. Red Nose Day was created for Humans ... Wetnose is for animals!

Founded in 2000 by Andrea and Gavin GambyBoulger, Wetnose supports the smaller animal rescue centres and organisations caring for sick or vulnerable animals, where there are limited or insufficient funds to carry out the work they do.

Wetnose has a valuable and essential place in helping animals that otherwise would not receive the care that they need, by placing funds where they are most needed.

You can help this worthwhile cause by Sponsoring Wetnose; Hosting an event to raise funds; or by Buying a legendary nose on-line by paypal http://www.wetnoseanimalaid.com/support.html

For more information visit: www.wetnoseanimalaid.com

Tel: 01963 33370 | Higher Holton, nr Wincanton BA9 8EA info@elliscombehouse.co.uk | www.elliscombehouse.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2015 5

We Hear

That all good wishes for a speedy recovery go to Mrs V. Penny of Bradford Abbas.

That thanks to her enthusiastic research in using particle physics to help conserve ancient glass under tutorage at Bristol University and Professor Peter Higgs, Dr Lady Amelie Drewdun, formerly known as Helen Stockman of Castle Cary, has ensured that the mini Higgs Bosun Collider currently installed at Bristol University will remain in situ for a further three years.

That the Visitor can reveal that the ‘eternal youth’ secret of Keinton Mandeville’s Graham Cox is a mid-morning mug of Ovaltine.

That when preparing to drive, Yeovil's John Hamblin is sometimes influenced by his trips to America.

That when it comes to wedding anniversaries, cotton is comfortable and fresh and sturdy and strong, just what a marriage should be after two years ... happy second anniversary wishes go to Lucy and Steve Putt of Weymouth for 7th September.

That Paul 'Horace Batchelor' Sherrell of Castle Cary, makes sure that he doesn't miss a train by arriving at the station 2 days before departure.

That a certain Chiselborough gentleman should remember his football training and warm up before dancing to avoid a pulled muscle.

That there were excellent results, yet again, for A-Level students at Leweston School and Chilton Cantelo School who achieved A*/A grades in excess of the National Rate of 25.9%.

That with yet another vehicle careering off the road and ending up on its side at the Three Ashes T-junction on the A359 between Galhampton and Sparkford, surely it’s time for the Highways department to get involved and look into the causes - at least 5 vehicles in as many months is far too high a percentage.

That a rare spider, re-discovered at Radipole Nature Reserve and thought to have been extinct for many years, was only 7 feet in the grave, apparently!

That happy first bithday wishes go to Isla May Price-Hoddinott of South Cadbury for 16th September.

6 THE VISITOR September 2015

Mentioned in

Dispatches

Pink Tombola

A Pink Tombola, in aid of Breast Cancer Care is to be held on Saturday 26th September outside Ilminster Tesco. If you have any ‘pink’ prizes to donate, please contact Anne Hine on 01460 52679 or 07900 217604 Please help to make this a fund raising success.

Sponsored Swim

On Sunday 13th September, there will be a sponsored swim at the swimming pool in Wincanton, in aid of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Swimmers can choose their own

number of lengths and must find their own sponsors. There will also be a cake sale in the lounge of the pool complex. The swimming time will be from 8am to 2pm. Enquiries to: derek.hudson@mail.com or telephone 01963 31663.

Spiritual Medium in the Skittle Alley, Horsepond Inn, Castle Cary 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 from Di Pinnions 01963 351307.

Sunday, 20 September Quiz Night in the White Hart, Castle Cary, 7.30pm, all welcome.

An evening with Spanish Guitar Duo Esperanto on Saturday 12th September, 8pm, at Ilminster Arts Centre. Tickets are £12 and are available from the Centre on 01460 54973. The evening is in aid of the Samaritans - Taunton and Somerset.

A Barn Dance & Horse Shoe Tossing Competition has been arranged to raise much need funds for the ‘Forget Me Not’ Memory Cafe in Langport, which provides an essential meeting place for those that suffer from memory problems such as Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Stroke etc.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Langport and Somerton, heats for the Horse Shoe Tossing will be held on 15th September in Langport, and on the 16th September in Somerton. First prize £100. Teams wishing to

Charity Concert

Castle Cary & Ansford Carnival Society Events

Wednesday, 2 September 2015 Bingo at the Scout Hut, next to the Primary School. Eyes down 7.30pm.

Tuesday, 15 September An evening with Bernie Scott,

Major Fund Raiser for the Langport Memory Cafe

Learning Disability Service Recruiting Now

were: Karen Charles of Ilminster; Paul Emery of Wells and Nina Swift of Street.

Mentioned in

New YTFC and Yeovil College Football Academy Announced

Dispatches enter should email: gerardtucker @aol.com The Barn Dance will be held in Curry Rivel Village Hall on Saturday 19th September with live music, licensed bar and hot food. The final of the Horse Shoe Tossing will be held on the Green, Curry Rivel on the same date.

Tickets for the Dance are £5 available from Curry Rivel Post Office or call 01458 741606.

Modern Folk at Donyatt Village Hall

On Friday 18th September, Blackheart, an all-acoustic modern folk duo who have been touring professionally in the UK and abroad for six years, will be at Donyatt Village Hall. Last year Blackheart were awarded ‘Best British Duo’ in the 2014 UK Exposure Music Awards. Their show features all original songs, the voice of Chrissy Mostyn, plus acoustic guitars, mandolin, keyboards, omnichord, a collection of ancient synthesisers

A rare red panda cub has been born at Longleat after keepers launched an international lonely hearts ad to find a mate for their male. It’s the first time the famous Wiltshire safari park has successfully bred red pandas and keepers are delighted with how well the cub, which has yet to be named, is doing. See full story on the Visitor website.

and a strong emphasis on harmony.

Tickets £10 can be reserved by contacting Phil King on 01460 53861. All proceeds to the Hall Maintenance and Improvement Fund.

Green Flag winning Country Parks

South Somerset’s Countryside Rangers and volunteers are delighted to have again secured

Green Flag Awards for Ham Hill and Yeovil Country Parks and Chard Reservoir Local Nature Reserve. The sites consistently receive high praise from judges for their significant level of voluntary involvement and the diverse range of community events.

Competition Winners

The winners of the TOYSHIRTS featured in last month’s Visitor

Yeovil Town Football Club (YTFC) and Yeovil College are delighted to announce a new academy programme for talented football players. YTFC will be offering up to 18 scholarships to aspiring professionals over these next two years. Each of these young players will be undertaking a Level 3 BTEC qualification at Yeovil College.

For more information about applying for the football academy programme, please call 01935 423921 or email enrol@ yeovil.ac.uk

Rotary Golf Day Raises £1400 for Children's Hospice SW

Sixty golfers from across South Somerset took part in the Rotary Club of Ilminster’s annual Golf Tournament recently, kindly hosted by Steve Hill, the new owner of Cricket St. Thomas Golf Club.

This was played in mainly fine though cloudy conditions at the recently refurbished Club near Chard, whose Course had

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THE VISITOR September 2015 7

Mentioned in

Dispatches generously been made available for the day. Rotary organisers David Dick and Peter Smith say the event realised £1,400 which Ilminster Rotary Club will donate to the Children’s Hospice SouthWest. The Men's Cup was eventually won by Jason Contreras and the Ladies Cup by Barbara Wilton who is the current Ladies Captain at Cricket St. Thomas. Several local sponsors supported the event.

These included a Broomhouse & Saul hospitality stop half way around the course, beyond which several contestants needed added focus and encouragement to continue!

Do You Know Anyone Who is Blind or Partially Sighted?

If so, might you be able to interest them in receiving the Shaftesbury Area Talking Newspaper? This is an entirely free publication that arrives by post each week in the form of a recording on a memory stick. Recipients are provided with a simple piece of equipment on which to play the recording.

The recording itself contains some ninety minutes of news and features read from the Blackmore Vale Magazine, the Salisbury Journal, the Western Gazette, and other local publications including The Visitor Magazine.

If you would like more information, or indeed already have some names and addresses to hand, do please telephone Colin Francis on 01747 851803 or Collette Drury on 01258 273923.

Mendip Victoria Crosses

Langport Community Choir

After a very successful choir year which included another trip to the Bristol Choir Festival and many local performances, the choir starts again on Monday September 7th. They meet in the main hall at Huish Academy, Huish Episcopi and members come from Langport, Somerton, Street and most of the surrounding villages. There is no audition, the first week is free. If you have never sung before, don’t worry, you only need to be over 18 and enjoy singing for pleasure.

Under the direction of Pete Linnett you will be amazed at the beautiful sounds he creates with the various voices and the many types of music including folk, pop, spirituals and traditional music from around the world. Pop in for a listen, or even better, join in.

Visit: www.langportcommunity choir.co.uk or call 01458 223831 for more information.

New Laser Printer for Zest Café

The Blackmore Vale Lions together with Gillingham, Mere and Shaftesbury Lions joined forces to provide a state of the art Laser Printer to the Zest Café project in Sherborne. The Café is a vital link for people in the local area with learning difficulty problems.

Over 50’s Group

The next meeting of Sherborne Area Over Fifty’s Group will take place on Monday 21st September at 2.30pm in the Digby Hall, Hound Street. All welcome.

Gillingham Walking Festival

A local interest booklet entitled: Mendip Victoria Crosses, which contains biographical tributes and details of the deeds of five men who were associated with the Mendip region of Somerset and awarded the Victoria Cross, is to be published on 31st August.

The information is taken from the JWB Historical Library, compiled over four decades, and

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8 THE VISITOR September 2015

is complemented with illustrations, some in colour, and five new pictures of VC actions produced exclusively for the publication.

Three men were associated with the Wells area, and one was a Somerset police officer who became the local Bobby at Ilminster.

The book (ISBN: 978-09931894-3-2) costs £4.99 (plus £2 P&P) available by visiting the website: www.jwbancroft.com - or for further information contact jamesbancroftuk@aol.com or telephone: 0161 279 8622. Or from your usual book retailer.

Final preparations are now in full swing for the second Gillingham Walking Festival taking place from the 5-13th September. The event will be launched on Saturday 5th September at 9.45am on the Town Meadow by the Mayor or Gillingham and special guest Kate Ashbrook – President of the Ramblers national organisation.

Enthusiastic walkers can then take a 5 or 20 mile walk.

The Festival offers a wide variety of walks throughout the week with two walks a day over nine days. There are short walks, accessible walks and longer rambles to suit all abilities. Some walks require booking in advance – so don’t miss out. New to this year’s programmes are Treasure Trails, Bat Detecting and a walk called ‘In the footsteps of Constable’ which takes you to locations where Constable painted.

‘Following the success of the first Festival last year, we are excited to offer a wider variety of walks to explore the town’s heritage, surrounding countryside and wildlife. We intend that the festival becomes an annual event promoting walking opportunites for residents and for visitors. We are working to improve facilities

for walkers and open up new routes. Look out for the new green and blue waymarkers. Red route coming soon’ says Sheila Messer, chair of the Gillingham Walkers are Welcome Group.

All walks will start from the Town Meadow, unless advertised otherwise.

The Festival is supported financially by the Three Rivers Partnership and the Ramblers.

The Full Programme can be picked up from the Libraries in Gillingham,Wincanton and Shaftesbury, Gillingham Town Hall and village stores. It is also available on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Gillingham WalkingFestival or the on web hosting page: www.threerivers gillingam.org

CCS Launches a New Free Funding Portal

Community Council for Somerset (CCS) is a charity providing support for Somerset’s rural communities for almost 90 years.

In order to continue to meet the needs of these communities and to offer support to all Somerset postcodes, CCS is launching its new online funding service.

The new free online portal www.somersetrcc.org.uk/funding provides comprehensive coverage of all available funding opportunities; European, national and regional schemes, local initiatives and is kept fully up-to-date. Access to the huge database of funding opportunities is available 24 hours a day, all you need to do is register and you can instantly start searching.

You can narrow the funding search and use a number of features - setting up automatic email alerts so you are first to know when relevant new or updated funds are added, as well as signing up to weekly newsletters packed with the latest funding announcements.

Keeley Rudd, Acting Chief Executive of CCS said: “With funding high on the agenda for charitable organisations, village halls, parish councils and community groups CCS is delighted to launch this new service. It is free to register and is very simple to use giving users a bespoke report enabling them to find funding for their project or service. Further support is available from the CCS funding team offering help with applications; business or project planning advice, evidence of need, budget and cash flow advice and assistance with bid writing.”

Don’t delay, sign up today visit: www.somersetrcc.org.uk/funding

Antiques, Vintage & Collecting

Market Cross Antiques

The popular Market Cross Antiques has been operating in the centre of Somerton for nearly 8 years. Over 25 dealers offer a wide range of antiques, collectables and home furnishings. This large shop has featured on several television programmes and has become a popular antique destination for antique lovers from all over the country as well as local customers. The shop is open Monday to Saturday 10 to 5 and a warm welcome always awaits customers old and new. The shop prides itself on offering great stock at sensible prices.

Massive Price for Lowry ‘Mini’ Picture

A painting by famous 20th century artist Lawrence Stephen Lowry (1887 – 1976) could make more than £100,000 when it is offered for auction at Duke’s of Dorchester in September.

The painting which is little more than the size of an A4 piece of paper, belongs to a small group of single figure studies produced

by Lowry on a plain background.

L.S. Lowry’s busy industrial townscapes scattered with ‘matchstick’ figures are iconic making this painting especially

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significant as it is relatively plain in comparison. Lowry produced over 1000 paintings in his lifetime but of these, only a handful of single figure studies are known.

More importantly, he is believed to have produced an even smaller number of rare studies of girls wearing mini skirts. The painting being offered at Duke’s of Dorchester is said to be the best ‘mini skirt’ painting ever produced by Lowry.

The small oil painting, bearing the all important Lowry signature and dated 1968, depicts a full length side profile of a young girl walking against a cold Northern wind – she walks with her head bowed, wearing a black coat with red hood and hem and baring slender long legs. A Spokesperson for Duke’s describes the

significant work: ‘The use of red was atypical for Lowry. Look at most of his landscapes and they are dominated by grim grey and brown tones – hardly any of his female studies use the colour and here, it lends the painting a strong identity especially when contrasted to the murky plain background. The viewer really feels the cold Northern winter wind that must be blowing against the figure’s bare legs. It is a simple image yet one which perfectly captures the moment that Lowry saw the girl’.

The remarkable painting was executed at a time when women were walking the streets of Liverpool and Manchester and embracing the liberated 1960’s fashions – bright colours, mini skirts and highly patterned fabrics would have dominated the High Street. For an artist who grew up constrained by Victorian ideals, the image of the ‘Modern Woman’ would have been a fascinating and possibly erotic one. ‘When compared to his typical ‘matchstick’ studies of the human form, this painting of a girl in a mini skirt is imbued with a sense of movement and admiration of the female form’ says a Spokesperson for Duke’s Auctioneers.

The painting, to be sold on 17th September, has been exhibited at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool as well as at the Tate Liverpool making the provenance of the work unrivalled. ‘Genuine oil paintings

by L.S. Lowry are hugely popular at auction but to find one which is such an unusual subject for the artist and with such a high calibre provenance is fantastic. We expect the interest at the £120,000 180,000 estimate to be high’.

Valuation Day

Thursday 10 September is Valuation Day at Ilminster Arts Centre. Bring along your family heirlooms, or overlooked treasures, for a free valuation with the experts from Bearnes, Hampton & Littlewood of Exeter from 10am-1pm.

Ilminster Arts Centre at The Meeting House, East Street, Ilminster, TA19 0AN. Chasty Cottage Antiques

Antiques Fairs

•

•

Saturday 5th September Digby Hall, Hound Street, Next to Library SHERBORNE • DT9 3AA 9.30am – 4pm • Trade 8.30am • Admission £1  FUTURE DATE: Saturday 10th October 

Sunday 13th September – Antiques at Kingston Maurwood House, DT2 8PY

Inside Market Cross Antiques of Somerton.

Market Cross Antiques West Street, Somerton Tel: 01458 274005

Over 25 dealers offering a wide range of antiques, collectables and decorative furnishings Find us on facebook

10am – 3.30pm • Admission £3 Refreshments • Free Parking

 01963 370986 www.chastycottageantiques.co.uk

Quillon House Antiques

16 H IG H S TR EET , B RUTON  01749 812269

 17 th / 18 th C. Oak and Country Furniture  Arms & Armoury  Equestrian Paintings  Valuations Undertaken  Antiques Purchased

Amber Necklace

Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm

THE VISITOR September 2015 9

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

Chartered Accountants & Tax Advisers in Ilminster answers questions from small businesses in Somerset

Q1. My company runs a record label specialising in club music. We used to produce the music on CDs, but now almost everyone buys music as a download or via a streaming service. I have a large number of CDs in stock

Chalmers

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which I am unlikely to ever sell. How should I value that stock in my accounts?

Robert Stone replies:

The acceptable method of valuing stock is: "the lower of cost and net realisable value". As you think it is unlikely that the stock will be sold, it has a nil realisable value, so you can value it at nil in your accounts.

Q2. I am the director of my own company, which has kindly purchased new spectacles for me for £269.

These include lenses specially formatted for the design work I do on screen. Do I need to include the cost of the glasses on the form P11D for the year?

Robert Stone replies:

As you need the glasses for your work using a computer the company can pay for the cost, and there is no taxable benefit for you.

Hinkley Contracts Pledged to Local Supplier Alliances

Five local supplier alliances, representing over a dozen Somerset

and South West businesses, have been named among EDF Energy’s preferred bidders for the proposed Hinkley Point C development, with allotted contracts worth over £225million pounds. The successful supplier groups named as preferred bidders include companies in the site infrastructure, accommodation, transport, and food and drink industries. All were set up with assistance from the Somerset Chamber of Commerce and its Hinkley Project Delivery Team.

Hinkley Point C is expected to boost the South West regional economy by over £100million during each year at peak construction, bringing long-term opportunities for the suppliers involved.

The Somerset Chamber of Commerce manages the Hinkley supply chain portal and is the first point of contact for local businesses wishing to engage in the construction of the proposed nuclear new build project. Already 2,000 business have signed up and any business wishing to find out more or register on the supply chain portal should visit www.hinkleysupplychain.co.uk

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10 THE VISITOR September 2015

Say you saw it in The Visitor

TASTES from the WEST COUNTRY Andrew Barclay - Traditional Family Butchers

Andrew Barclay Butchers in Wincanton High Street, is so much more than a traditional family butcher. Not only do they serve their customers with the finest locally sourced meats, along with bacon, ham and cold meats, they are also able to offer them a tempting range of hand-made pies and pasties, ideal if you have hungry mouths to feed!

Locally made cheeses are stocked along with Wadman’s world famous cream from their Jersey herd and free range eggs.

There are always special offers available at Andrew Barclay Butchers (see advert for details), so pop in and stock up your freezer! The friendly and helpful staff will be pleased to serve you, but if you can’t get in to Wincanton orders are taken at North Cadbury Village Stores. and Maiden Bradley Village Shop.

Bower Hinton Farm Shop Martock

Bower Hinton Farm has been owned and run by the Palmer family for over 160 years.

The Farm Shop was opened by Duncan and Sally Palmer in April

Dikes’ of Stalbridge – all the region has to offer, under one roof

Smoked Duck - just one of the many delicious dishes available from Brown and Forrest Smokery at Hambridge, near Langport. Why not try their restaurant when you visit the smokery shop?

2006. Duncan specialises in growing outdoor vegetables and salads plus indoor strawberries.

Produce is harvested daily to maintain freshness and as he harvests it all himself, quality is maintained.

Currently, home grown produce includes - cauliflowers, broccoli, carrots, primo cabbage and runner beans, with autumn strawberries ready soon. All home grown produce is competitively

priced as there are no 'food miles' or 'middle men' involved!

Why not enjoy a cup of delicious coffee in the coffee shop? Bower Hinton Farm Shop is a proper farm shop on a real working farm.

Diary Date: Saturday 3rd October, Open Day.

Award-winning independent supermarket Dike & Son in Stalbridge is the one-stop place to buy all your Dorset and Somerset produce – as the family-run store stocks thousands of items from over 130 local growers, makers and bakers.

They also have a bustling café serving home-cooked traditional lunches and Dorset Cream Teas, and free customer parking.

And all of this wonderful local food is also available to order on Dike’s online websites, giving their smaller producers an internet ‘shop window’. Local customers can order their entire week’s shopping via the Stalbridge store’s grocery website, www.dikes-direct.co.uk For those living further afield, or if you’d like to post someone a hamper stuffed with local produce or regional ales anywhere in the UK, visit Dike’s hampers website at www.dikeandson.co.uk

Bower Hinton Farm Shop - Martock Open Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 6.00pm

Vegetables & Fruit in Season Our own bunched Carrots, Cauliflower, Courgettes, Potatoes, Runner Beans and Cabbages now available Autumn Strawberries - 2nd Week of September Local Meat - Joints - Sausages - Bacon - Poultry Frozen - Pastries - Fruits - Vegetables - Ready Meals Draught and Bottled Local Cider - Free Range Eggs Jams - Preserves - Cheese - Cakes - Pickles - Wines

n

Autumn Strawberries 2nd Week September

Diary Date

OPEN DAY Saturday 3rd October

Just off the B3165 at the top of Bower Hinton

Tel: 01935 827743

THE VISITOR September 2015 11

TASTES from the WEST COUNTRY Harts of Stur – new sponsors of Stur Cheese Fest’s Mousetrap Theatre

The Mousetrap Theatre at the famous Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival has always been one of the highlights of the show for many visitors. 2015 brings new sponsors for the Theatre, in the form of multi award winning, Harts of Stur, who aside from being based in Sturminster, are a nationally recognised retailer of all things kitchen. A food theatre and the best local kitchen company coming together like this; it seems crazy that this didn't happen years ago!

Harts are looking to inject lots of 'theatre' into the event, engaging with, and entertaining, the audience with the schedule of speakers/demonstrators. Each one hour slot will involve a quick game to get the audience vocal and interested, with spot prizes for the lucky winners, followed by the interesting, informative and entertaining speakers weaving their magic. The hour is finished off with an 'Omelette challenge', sponsored by Greenpan, where two members of the audience will be

encouraged to challenge our speaker to make the fastest omelette (OK, so not our original idea, but good fun anyway). Prizes for the winners as you would expect.

Surrounding the audience will be small stands where you can interact directly with all our demonstrators, asking questions about them or the processes they have demonstrated. There may also be some exclusive offers for audience members on the day!

Already confirmed to speak are: - Mark Hartstone, the renowned chef from La Fosse in Cranborne; Margot Finlay, local proprietor of Thyme after Time, doing a special kids themed hour; - Al WingateSaul from Holebrooks Fine Foods on basic home butchery and getting the best from cheaper cuts of meat; - Martin Else from Something Else Fishy, showing why you need not be scared of fresh fish; - Louis Haskell from Plumber Manor, cheese related recipes; - Julie and Jenny from KitchenAid, who will be giving inspiration on how to get the most out of your home appliances, as well as talking all

about juicing, the benefits, recipes and how not to waste your fruit and veg. With a few speakers left to confirm, there is something for everyone, and we hope to see everyone at some point over the weekend. (Harts advert back page).

New Cross Fruit Farm

New Cross Fruit Farm has been a specialist fruit farm since 1948 and is run by the Hebditch family.

William and Liz are the 2nd generation here.

They farm 170 acres atop the first range of hills south of the Somerset Levels, and their deep and fertile sandy clay loam allows them to grow a range of fruits and asparagus.

They run a small farm gate outlet during the picking season and you can also buy and try their produce at numerous independent retailers and restaurants throughout the South West.

William and Liz pride themselves on growing the best quality produce, all picked and packed by hand on site. They grow a wide variety of produce and love to see old and new faces alike enjoying the fruits of their labour.

Root & Vine – Sturminster Newton

Alongside the colourful fresh flowers delicious English apples make an inviting display outside

Root & Vine. Now is one of the best times of year to enjoy fresh locally grown produce such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cabbages, cauliflowers, tomatoes and lettuce ... to name but a few. New potatoes from Devon are currently just £9.50 for 25kg. Local jams and chutneys are stocked, also honey from Gillingham. Why not try your hand at pickling or wine making and enjoy these delicious flavours throughout the year?

Root & Vine also sell more exotic fruit and veg, together with fresh herbs, wild bird food and charcoal.

Proving popular are the bags of snacks at £1 which include dried fruits, nuts, seeds etc. Keep healthy – have your 5 a day – visit Root & Vine for freshness and value.

Jon Thorner’s

Quality, provenance and animal welfare has always been a priority at award winning master butchers Jon Thorner’s. All their beef is certified as naturally reared in the West Country, with locally sourced lamb and free range poultry. They also use Packington Free Range pork, from an award winning farm which allows their pigs to roam outside their whole lives. All this fantastic quality meat is also used in their range of pies, pasties and sausage rolls. Jon Thorner’s is no stranger to awards and most recently their Creamy Steak & Peppercorn Pie and Chinese Style Duck & Black Cherry Pie were both awarded Gold Stars at the Great Taste Awards - the world’s largest and most trusted food and drink awards.

Blueberries, Raspberries & More!

Delicious West Country Fruit & Veg

Strawberries  Carrots  Cabbages Salad  New Potatoes  Local Flowers  Jams

ROOT & VINE

Taste the difference

Prop. Sue McShane – Your local independent greengrocer

Market Place • Sturminster Newton Tel: 01258 472576

12 THE VISITOR September 2015

THE VISITOR September 2015 13

Hobbies & Pastimes

Sherborne ArtsLink

Sherborne ArtsLink is offering a dynamic programme of creative activities this autumn. Tutored by professional, friendly and inspiring artists such as Nina Gronw-Lewis, Annabel Wilson, Miranda Halsby, Lal Hitchcock, Julie Oldfield and Susan R Hughes a diverse range of termly, short or one day classes are available.

Autumn trips with ArtsLink include MC Escher exhibition at the Dulwich Picture Gallery, London and Elgar Unmasked concert at The Lighthouse, Poole.

Many other activities for adults, young people, children and families are available from ArtsLink. To book or find out details go to: www.sherborneartslink.org.uk or ring 01935 815899.

Cocklemoor

Newly arrived at Cocklemoor, Langport is a range of British wool from West Yorkshire Spinners - reared, sheared and spun in Britain! There is always a good choice of wools from leading makes such as Sirdar and patterns together with haberdashery. Other useful items include jars of buttons, Dylon, sewing threads and work boxes.

There are jigsaw puzzles on a wide range of topics and to suit all ages. The craft section has been increased and offers such things as modelling clays, glues,

Stained glass can be fun ArtsLink of Sherborne.

BALLROOM DANCING • Private Lessons • Modern Ballroom • Latin American • Party Dances

Langport Dance Centre JOHN BIRTLES Professional Dancing Teacher

P.T.D. Members Latin & Ballroom

Telephone: Langport (01458) 250322

Members Latin & Ballroom

COCKLEMOOR GIFT & CRAFT SHOP GET CREATIVE THIS AUTUMN

Beautiful Knitting Yarns from ...

Sirdar & Hayfield • NEW IN WYS British Wool Patterns ~ Haberdashery ~ Ribbons

Extended Range of Craft Items Good Selection of Jigsaws and Games Cards  Gifts  Weigh-Out Sweets

Bow Street, Langport Tel: 01458 253145

14 THE VISITOR September 2015

cards and activity packs.

A selection of family games to while away the winter nights are stocked ... and of course, a mouth-watering array of weighout sweets and chocolates!

Forge Fabrics of Stalbridge

Forge Fabrics is run by mother and daughter team Wendy and Emily.

Forge Fabrics stock haberdashery, wool, cushions, fat quarters and handicrafts. They have recently increased their choice of both dress and soft furnishing fabric plus they have added a full range of embroidery threads. New in for the festive season are cross stitch kits Christmas and Tatty Ted, plus tinsel and glitter wool.

They have an on the premises soft furnishing workshop for curtains, blinds etc. and a fabric library offering fabrics from most leading manufacturers.

Proving popular is the Tuesday morning Knit and Natter sessions - all are welcome - knit, natter and enjoy a piece of cake and a cuppa.

Beginners dress-making classes are also available. The crochet class is now full but enquiries are welcome for an additional class.

Why not call in today?

Ballroom Dancing

John Birtles, a professional dancing teacher, has been teaching for over 50 years. With the increase in popularity of cruises - John has found that he gets a lot of enquiries from

passengers who want to learn prior to their holiday. Tuition can be on an individual basis or in private groups. Why not take up dancing as a hobby? It is tremendous fun and a useful social skill.

Quilling

Quilling, or ‘paper filigree’, is the centuries-old art of rolling narrow strips of paper and then shaping them to create exquisite and intricate designs. It can be applied to a wide range of projects, from simple gift tags and greetings cards to the creation of pictures, jewellery, freestanding paper sculptures and the decoration of three-dimensional objects such as boxes.

The Quilling Guild will be staging its annual Display of Work showing the art at The Digby Hall, Sherborne on Saturday 19th September from 12.30 - 5pm (admission charge £1; children accompanied by an adult free.)

The highlight of the event will be extensive displays of quilled artwork by filigree artists from all over the UK and around the world. Expert judges and members of the Quilling Guild will be voting on the entries. The Quilling Guild exists to encourage, support, preserve and publicise the art of Quilling.

A Quilling Demonstration will take place at Butterfly Bright in Sherborne (next to the Tourist Information in Digby Road) on Saturday 5th September from

Display of Quilling (the beautiful art of paper filigree) Saturday 19th September 12.30 – 5.00pm Digby Hall, Hound Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3AA Entry £1  Accompanied Children Free Hosted by The Quilling Guild

www.quilling-guild.co.uk

Forge Fabrics     

Curtains & Blinds  Soft Furnishing Fabric Dress Fabric  Haberdashery  Wool etc.

Knit & Natter: Tuesdays 10am – 12noon Beginners Dressmaking: Saturdays 10am – 12noon Crochet Class ... please enquire

The Forge, Ring Street Stalbridge, Dorset, DT10 2LZ emilykjeans@gmail.com www.forgefabrics.co.uk www.facebook.com/forgefabrics

Emily & Wendy  01963 548138

Hobbies & Pastimes

10am to 3pm. The event is free and you can have a go to try the craft.

For more details, please visit: www.quilling-guild.co.uk or email quillingguild@yahoo.co.uk

A W Rule & Son Gun Makers Ltd

Using traditional methods, A W Rule & Son, Gun Makers are pleased to offer a fully bespoke shotgun and rifle stock making service.

Pheeraya Hill will demonstrate three delicious Thai dishes for you to make during her Cooking Courses in September and November. Early booking advised.

Whether you require a custom hand-made replacement stock for your Best English Game gun, imported side by side, over under or a Big Game hunting rifle, A W Rule & Son are pleased to offer a guaranteed quotation upon request.

Choose from their range of hand selected, air dried Circassian Walnut stock blanks, be it from entry level to best Exhibition grade, they can match your current stock for grain and colour, either on your behalf or you can personally choose from their wood room by appointment.

A W Rule & Son Gun Makers are strong believers in safety first.

A dirty gun is potentially a dangerous gun. With the relatively inexpensive cost of servicing, regular maintenance and the reassurance of a successful shooting season, be it a family heirloom or modern shotgun, all shooting enthusiasts should consider regular gun care.

Their high standard of servicing can meet your every gun requirement, be it from a basic check over or to a full service including:

Have fun with Dylon. Hanson’s of Sturminster Newton have a host of crafts to try. Pick up a copy of their ‘Sew What’s New’ brochure for full details of their various sewing workshops.

Thai Cooking Courses 2015 Henhayes Centre, Crewkerne, Somerset Saturday 19th September and ...

Saturday 14th November from 12.00 – 3.30pm  Each course is £49 per person  including all ingredients At

Contact Pheeraya Hill • Tel: 01460 76391 www.thaicooking4you.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2015 15

Hobbies & Pastimes

• Tightening action for grip and sides • Regulate ejectors/trigger pulls/single triggers • Replacement firing pins • Cosmetic repairs • Dent raising and barrel lapping • Refitting barrel ribs and loops • Barrel reblacking and browning • Engraving • Action rejointing and proof work • Stock refinishing • Gold washing of parts.

A W Rule & Son have a varied selection of best side by side and over & under game and clay shotguns for sale also air weapons and accessories. All guns sold by them are guaranteed and backed by over 50 years of gun making expertise. Call 01458 270024 or visit www.awruleandsongun makers.co.uk

Midwest the Stationers of Sherborne

Card Making is a popular pastime for many. Cards can be

Stationery, Cards and Gift Wrap

Office Equipment & Furniture Printer Inks and Toners

made for every occasion - from greetings cards through to wedding stationery. Midwest have just taken delivery of their Christmas Card making items, ready for the festive season.

Midwest stock a comprehensive range of papers, artists materials such as paints and brushes, plus of course, an extensive choice of pens, pencils and inks. Back-toschool promotional packs can currently be found in-store.

Italian Passions

Italian Language Services provides a range of classes at all levels from beginners to advanced. These run for 30 weeks starting in September. Also available is individual tuition tailored to the individual student’s needs. There are also 10 week course which are designed to give enough knowledge to get by on holiday and also serve as a brief introductory course.

Exams are not obligatory but there is the possibility to study for GCSE and A level.

Translation and interpreting services are also available.

Wild Cardz

Wild Cardz of Wincanton are now pleased to offer a range of knitting yarns by King Cole. They stock everything from 3ply

Competitive Prices

FREE Local Delivery

Back-to-School Promotions Christmas ... card-making items





Stockists of Sheaffer, Parker, Lamy, Cross and Waterman Pens Call at our shop ...

21 Cheap Street, Sherborne Tel: 01935 814225 or visit our website ...

www.midwest-office.co.uk

Wild Cardz

35 High Street, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JU • Tel: 01963 31234

WOOL - WOOL - WOOL We now stock Knitting Wool

3-Ply through to Chunky Knit, Needles, Patterns, Haberdashery

★ CHILDRENS CRAFT ★

COLLECTION & DELIVERY POINT

Including Paints, Beads, Craft Kits, Loom Bands

www.wildcardzofwincanton.co.uk

16 THE VISITOR September 2015

Decoupage - just one of the many hobbies and crafts at Yandles of Martock.

through to chunky knit plus a range of haberdashery items such as knitting needles, elastic, buttons etc.

There is a range of patterns to include knits for dolls and premature babies, soft toys, Christmas and Halloween items plus fashion knits. Knitted Commissions are undertaken – in particular for baby clothes.

Children’s crafts such as painting by numbers, beads and modelling (Playdoh) can be found - plus an assortment of craft papers and glues. Craft Kits containing an assortment of items such as wires, wiggly eyes,

North Dorset & South Somerset

PREMIER ART SHOP

Embarking on a new art class this autumn?

Stock-up now and be well prepared for the start of class. Whether your passion is watercolour, acrylics, pastel, oils or sketching, you will find all the materials you need right here.

All members of qualifying art clubs & groups will received a 10% discount off purchases above £5.00 on presentation of valid membership card.

Scenes

Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist Scenes of Gillingham has a superb choice of paints, papers and accessories to suit your requirements. Water colours, acrylics, oils, inks and pastels are all readily available in a myriad of colours. Books and DVDs are available for tuition plus some craft items.

Scenes offer on-the-premises picture framing. With his many years of experience, proprietor Philip can advise on the best mount, frame and glass to enhance your picture. And it’s not only pictures that can be framed - tapestries, football shirts, baby shoes etc. can also be framed.

Samsung Notebook ...

12 Cheap Street, Sherborne

Tel: 01935 817100

pom poms etc. are proving very popular at just £4.99 – ideal to keep the kids amused. Visit the new website: www.wildcardzof wincanton.co.uk

   

Windows 7 2 GB Memory 320 GB Hard Drive Open Office

Bespoke Picture Framing Yeovil: 01935 507080 www.pc-zone.co.uk

ON THE PREMISES  A recent framing commission

Framing the usual and the unusual Open 6 days a week • Expert advice

SCENES

High Street • Gillingham Tel: 01747 824050 scenesol@aol.com

Leisure

Oddfellows Friendly Society

Readers may be aware of a study publicised in the national press recently, which says people are happier in their 70s than in their 50s.

The research was commissioned

by The Oddfellows Friendly Society for National Friendship Month.

Many of those interviewed attributed their happiness to the unexpected pleasures of retirement: becoming more active, enjoying their social life more and even being able to avoid packed supermarkets at

weekends.

Of course, not everyone feels this way. Life can lead to many different situations where people feel lonely and isolated. Causes include: families moving elsewhere for work, bereavement, and, perhaps ironically, retirement.

But there are practical, positive steps everyone can take to get more out of later life – the first of which is to get out and meet new people and regain the kind of camaraderie they took for granted in their working lives.

A GRAND DAY OUT FOR THE 20 Annual WHOLE FAMILY ... th

Street Fair

THE VISITOR September 2015 17

This month in Henstridge, the Oddfellows are holding a Folksy High Tea with music starting at 3.00pm on 27th September as part of Friendship Month to connect old and new friends alike. If you are interested in discovering how life really can begin at 50, 60 or even 70 then please get in touch or, better still, come along.

Please see our advert for more details of this event.

The Oddfellows is a mutual, nonprofit making friendly society – we are owned by our members rather than shareholders. Any profits made by the Oddfellows are passed back to the members in the form of benefits – the same benefits that you are eligible for if you join.

See www.oddfellows.co.uk

100 And Still Going Strong

Yeovil Railway Centre’s Andrew Barclay 0-4-0 steam locomotive Lord Fisher celebrates its 100th birthday on the 7th September.

Constructed during the First World War, the locomotive left the Caledonia works of Andrew Barclay

Bellissimo Boutique & Dress Agency

ILMINSTER • SOMERSET Invite you to a ...

COFFEE, CAKE & SHOPPING MORNING in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support Friday 25th September • 9.30am – 1pm in The Minster Rooms.

A selection of clothing can be purchased and all proceeds to the charity. Please come along and support us.

WEDDING DRESS OPEN DAY Saturday 26th September • 10am – 4pm Come, browse, and try on our fabulous range of wedding dresses on show.

No appointments needed.

Ex-Display and preloved Designer Labels at great prices. One to one friendly service, one off bridesmaid dresses, and wedding guest outfits.

For more information please call Caroline at Bellissimo on 01460 55905

Win tickets to see ‘Soul Legends’ at The Octagon Theatre Yeovil.

at Kilmarnock on 7th September 1915 to work in military establishments in the South East of England. It was named Lord Fisher after the great Naval reformer (second only to Lord Nelson) Admiral of the Fleet Lord ‘Jacky’ Fisher. It worked for the War Department through the two World Wars, until around 1950 it was sold.

The Gas Board bought and used it until about 1960 when it was dumped at Hilsea Gas Works, for it then to be purchased and fully restored for working the Chapel Tramway, an industrial line near the Southampton docks, until that tramway closed in 1967. A group of enthusiasts became the new owners, Lord Fisher went to Longmoor Military Railway, then to Radstock

Coming direct from the USA is the smash hit stage show Soul Legends.

Live on stage it’s the music of the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin and fellow soul legends James Brown, Tina Turner, Wilson Pickett, Sam and Dave, Michael Jackson, Barry

August 28th MUTTER SLATER & BAND - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil 30th BOOTLEG BLONDIE - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 30th ALAN DREW (4pm - 7pm) - Wyndham Arms, Kingsbury Episcopi 30th STORM - Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil September 2nd BLUES MUSE - Crown, Sherborne 6th US (3pm) - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 6th POWERCUT (3pm - 6pm) - Prince of Wales, Ham Hill 9th TRAD JAZZ - Crown, Sherborne 16th FOLK MUSIC - Crown, Sherborne 19th PHOENIX - Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon 30th OPEN MIC’ NIGHT - Crown, Sherborne  LIVE MUSIC every Friday at The Fleur de Lis, Stoke Sub Hamdon

YEOVIL RAILWAY CENTRE

Yeovil Junction Station • Yeovil • BA22 9UU Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th September, 10am — 5pm  Our steam engine 'Lord Fisher' will be 100 years old this September ... and we are having a Party!  Lots of attractions including Model Railways, Cowboys & Indians, Military Re-enactors, Village Fete Stalls, and much more!  See website www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com We hope that you will help us celebrate!

Admission: Adults £7, Child £3.50

18 THE VISITOR September 2015

Win Tickets to see Soul Legends at Octagon Theatre Friday 25th September

MU IC M NTH O R S O F THE

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

(one child per paying adult admitted FREE) Under 5's admitted FREE  Includes unlimited rides on Steam and Miniature Railways.

and in 1973 to Cranmore (East Somerset Railway), where it was the mainstay for train rides and shunting. Circumstances changed and with the engine stored out of service Barry Buckfield, by now the sole owner, agreed to its transfer to Yeovil Railway Centre for restoration. After a complete overhaul and repaint Lord Fisher re-entered service in June 2013, and is now the principal engine for the regular steam train days along the third of a mile former Great Western Railway Clifton Maybank branch line.

White, George Benson, Lionel Richie and scores more.

Spanning the decades – from soul’s heady Sixties’ origins to the present day – slick choreography, 16 dazzling costume changes and the superb Soul Legends live band bring legendary soul stars to life in ‘soulsational’ style.

The hits keep on coming. Classics like Respect, Soul Man, Ain’t Nobody, Knock On Wood, Midnight Hour, Proud Mary, You’re My First My Last My Everything, Best Of My Love, River Deep Mountain High, and many more.

The Visitor has teamed up with the promoters of the production to offer 2 lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to see this hitpacked spectacular. Simply answer the following question to be in with a chance of seeing the concert show of the year.

Q. Which famous Sixties singer is known as the Queen of Soul?

The first 2 correct entries drawn will each win a pair of tickets to the show. Send your answer by email to: info@thevisitormagazine.co.uk or on a postcard with your name and address to: The Visitor Magazine P.O.Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. The closing date is Monday 7th September.

To buy tickets contact The Octagon Theatre Box Office on 01935 422884.

Charity No 1043581

AN ADVERT IN THE PUB PAGES ENSURES A FREE MENTION HERE!

Leisure & Travel

Limited Edition vinyl album re-issue - Cary resident has LP out – 35 years later

An album, recorded in a house in King’s Gate, Aberdeen in 1977, has been re-issued by a national music magazine – over 35 years after it was first made. The album, Strange Stone, by Castle Cary’s Paul Hansford – is book-listed at £500 and typically changes hands for over £250.

Now, the vinyl collector’s monthly magazine Record Collector has remastered the album and is offering a Limited Edition of 500 copies in its Rare Vinyl Re-issue series. The album (priced £19.99 +p&p) was officially released on 24 August.

The album’s story features in the September issue of Record Collector.

The Motorhome Show Shepton Mallet 11th – 13th September

It’s that time of year again when we'll all be heading to the Shepton Mallet Motorhome Show, held for the thirtieth year at the Bath & West Showground, on the A371.

There’s no better place to view and compare so many different models than at everyone’s favourite show.

Over the long weekend of the 11th - 13th September everything ‘Motorhome’ will be for sale; from the latest new designs to pre-loved models.

In addition to the exhibition, visitors staying for the long weekend have a varied entertainment programme organised for them.

With cabarets on Friday and Saturday evenings. There’s also a Fun Craft Competition on the Sunday morning and a Best Pet Show around lunchtime. The show is open from 9.30am - 5pm.

Admission charge for day visitors is adults £7.50 per person in advance online at www.seetickets.com or £10 per person on the day. Accompanied children under 16 are free and day car parking is also free.

Visitors who would like to stay for the whole weekend can arrive from Thursday onwards. The weekend fee is £45 from Thursday or £40 from Friday onwards. This includes unlimited admission to the show plus all of the free evening entertainment.

More details at www.The MotorhomeShow.com or telephone 020 8302 6069 or 01159 461146. See advert on cover.

Wessex Heavy Horse Show

Planning for the Wessex Heavy Horse Show and Country Fayre has been underway since last year, as we continue to try to make it the best and biggest Heavy Horse Show in the South West. This year's event is on the 27th September, on the Gillingham and Shaftesbury (Turnpike) showground. Gates open from 9am, under 5s are free, and dogs are welcome (on a lead, please, unless participating in one of the events).

This year we have all our usual Heavy Horse classes, including foals, harness and vehicles, and also a Ridden Heavy Horse class, which is a qualifier for Equifest 2016. Highlight of the showing classes is the West of England Championships (kindly sponsored

by Wadworth Ltd. of Devizes), which draws qualifying horses from shows across the South West and thus brings together the very best that this region has to offer.

In the display ring we have dressage and the Quadrille, a huge array of vintage vehicles, and the very popular have-a-go terrier racing. Elsewhere we have the Fun

Dog Show, wagon rides, an exciting range of refreshments, craft and trade stands, displays, and the society stand with a chance to Win a Wheelbarrow-full of Booze. There is also the Pudding Competition! Anyone can enter make your favourite pudding and bring it to the society stand at opening time on show day, with a card displaying its name and, ideally, the ingredients (in case of food allergies), with your name and contact details on the back.

Throughout the day, anyone at the show can pay a small amount to taste a number of different puddings, then vote for their own favourites. The one with the most votes at the end of the day is the winner! Get your tasting in early: last year's competition was so popular that there was nothing left by lunchtime!

The Wessex Heavy Horse Society's aim is to preserve and promote our Heavy Horse breeds, retaining and passing on the skills involved in their care, breeding, working and showing, and raising public awareness of the roles that these animals still have to play in today's world.

THE VISITOR September 2015 19

MOTORING ... at your service

Norris Body Repairs

Norris Body Repairs is a familyrun business near the town centre which carries out car body repairs, paint work, restoration and MOT welding work. Large and small jobs welcome.

If you have an insurance claim you can choose where your car is repaired and Norris Body Repairs offer a friendly alternative to the larger body shops. Richard Norris has over 20 years experience in the industry and will ensure you receive individual attention – together with a free estimate and highly skilled repair.

Norris Body Repairs carry out welding work on vehicles that may have failed their MOT. Call Mary Norris to book your car in for repair today or call in for a free estimate.

Westover Garage Langport

Westover Garage has been established for eight years and is run by business partners Gary Webb and David Huntley, who are both local to the area. The purpose built workshop is fully equipped including the latest diagnostic equipment.

There are seven members of staff all of whom are qualified mechanics.

They keep a wide range of tyres in stock at competitive prices.

Whether you want your air conditioning fixed, a service or a MOT, book in today.

Westover also offer a vehicle recovery service. Open from 7am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday, 7am - 11am Saturday.

VINTAGE Motor Cycling

I HAVE WRITTEN before about various manufacturers who commenced business by making pedal cycles before venturing into other products. Usually next came motorcycles or tricycles before ending up making cars.

Some examples of this are AJS, Singer, Humber, Rover, Triumph, B SA a nd m a ny m o re . So m e makers went off in an entirely different direction. One machine I have is a Husqvarna who made motorcycles in the very early years before going on to build anything from ships to sewing machines.

Husqvarna are now better known for making horticultural tools and although the name has been bought out several times there are still new Husqvarna motorcycles being made today.

Modern examples are Yamaha who make motorcycles but also musical instruments, and Honda and Mitsubishi who both make all sorts of things.

My reason for bringing this to notice now is that I recently came across an old photograph I had taken depicting a Brough Superior car. Brough made many excellent motorcycles of such high quality that they were advertised as the 'Rolls Royce of Motorcycles' and that was with the permission of the Rolls Royce car company.

But Brough's also made a few cars, again of very high quality, and my picture this month shows

GLIDEROL GARAGE DOORS

All garage doors are different, so as a roller door specialist, (I don’t replace windows, etc.) I can survey, quote and install to your requirements and make the most of your garage opening, as generally no frame is necessary. With the option of automated operation with remote control, a top quality garage door need only be a phone call away.

G.H. SALES. Tel: 01935 891414

NORRIS BODY REPAIRS LTD ■ Insurance Claims ■ Private Jobs ■ Restorations ■ Resprays ■ Welding Work

South Street • YEOVIL • BA20 1QQ Tel: 01935 411095

Email: norrisbodyrepairs@gmail.com • Fax: 01935 473119 20 THE VISITOR September 2015

an example which was regularly displayed in the Sherborne School Quad for the Rotary Clubs Historic Vehicle Rally. Very splendid it looks too and so I thought this picture might make a welcome change from motorcycles September sees us into autumn but there are still plenty The Brough Superior. of events to keep us happy. The Somerset Section the 23rd by a Mid Week Run from starts the month with their club P u l h a m . L a s t l y w i l l b e t h e night on the 3rd when they have Breakfast Meet on the 26th but a guest speaker. The speaker this may be subject to change as being Giles Willison who is the it clashes with another event. So General Manager of our club so there is no shortage of things to t h i s s h o u l d p r o v e m o s t interest us. More details available interesting. Next they have the by ringing 01935-872528.

September must be the season Codgers and Dodgers Run from Watchfield on the 5th (Saturday) for autojumbling. On the 4th and and a week later they have their 5th there will be the usual jumble West Somerset Run from Norton a t N e t l e y M a r s h , n e a r Fitzwarren. Lastly, on the 26th, S o u t h a m p t o n . T h i s o n e i s t h e y h a v e t h e t w i c e y e a r l y motorcycle orientated. Arranged Autojumble at the Bath and West for the same weekend, the 5th and S h o w g r o u n d . T h e W e s s e x 6th, is the massive jumble at Veteran and Vintage Section Beaulieu (always on the same have a new event on the 6th weekend so that the foreign buyers called Roger's Runaround from can do both events in one trip).

North Wootton near Sherborne. B e a u l i e u c a t e r s f o r c a r s , They then have a film show for motorcycles, boats, lorries or their club night on the 14th and anything else for that matter. So conclude the month with the large is this jumble that it is Autumn Leaves Run on the 27th spread over several fields and most from Ibsley near Ringwood. The human beings would find it Dorset Section have their usual impossible to see everything within Lunch Meet at West Stour on the those two days. Later in the 2nd. Club night on the 9th will month (26th) the Somerset Section be the annual General Meeting. will have their autojumble at the Next will be the Last of the Bath and West Showground. This Summer Wine Run from Hinton one caters for motorcycles only and St Mary on the 20th followed on is a must do event for anyone

Westover Garage Ltd.

The Willows Business Park, Westover Trading Estate, Langport, TA10 9RB

Tel: 01458 252252 NEW MOT TESTING CENTRE

Class 7 Commercial Vehicles • Class 4 Cars & Light Vans • Class 1 & 2 Motorcycles Appointment Basis Only • Re-tests FREE of Charge (within 10 days) Car Service & Car Sales — all makes and models FREE Collection & Delivery plus Loan Car Large selection of Tyres in stock at competitive prices

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interested in old bikes. You never go there without finding something that you just cannot live without and had always wanted. This twice yearly event is a very social day out and the chance you might just find that part to kickstart your next project.

I usually find that September and October are two very enjoyable months for motorcycling. Not too hot and mainly dry conditions urges me to get as much riding in as I can before the onset of winter. I suggest you may like to do similarly. Events keep going throughout the winter but with less frequency so that is the time to get busy in the workshop. This year has been difficult for me as a hand injury has precluded me from riding at all. By the time you read this I hope a small operation has been performed and I am heading towards recovery. It has been a thoroughly frustrating year but as soon as I am able to ride just watch me go. I cannot wait.

Rod Hann.

How Does this Compare with Your Village?

Speed Indicator Device (SID) results Northbound at Donyatt Bowling Club

Thanks must be given to Cllr Bill Porritt who has analysed figures from the raw data provided by County Highways. The Council had long suspected that the speeds in that stretch of the road were significantly high. After a bit of rudimentary number crunching by Bill Porritt, these were the alarming results, all for a two week period in May 2015 for a 40mph limit.

1. 2 vehicles went past the SID at 100 mph 2. 10 vehicles went past the SID at 90 mph 3. 41 vehicles went past the SID at 80 mph 4. 150 vehicles went past the SID at 70 mph 5. 911 vehicles went past the SID at 60 mph There appears to be no periodicity relationship - the high speedsters come through at random times and random days.

A regular 20%~30% of all vehicles go past at greater than 50 mph.

Yeovil Auto Tuning

Yeovil Auto Tuning are conveniently located at 9 Oxford Road, on the Pen Mill Trading Estate, Yeovil – easily located and with plenty of parking.

Yeovil Auto Tuning is a family run business, established for 33 years. Proprietor Colin Frost runs the business with his wife Anita and their two experienced mechanics Jamie and Ross.

They offer a full range of services - repairs, servicing, engine tuning and MOT testing which includes class 1V, V and V11 Light Vans plus motorhomes.

A collection and delivery service is available.

Also operating from the same premises is Eclipse Custom Campers, converting VW Transporter T4 and T5 vehicles.

Ridgeway Garage

If you are looking for a reliable secondhand car then pop along to Ridgeway Garage, situated on the Ridgeway Estate to the south

of the town near Mendip District Council, in Kingsland Road. A family run business established for over 40 years you can be sure of helpful and professional service.

All cars come with a new MOT, a Service, Cam Belt replacement if required and a warranty. Part exchange is welcome, finance is available if required and credit cards are also taken. Should you be looking for a particular make/model of car they will be happy to try and source it for you.

Visit www.ridgeway-garage.com or give them a call. Stock changes regularly.

Rich’s Auto Services

Richard Cross of Rich’s Auto Services on the Torbay Road Trading Estate has over 18 years experience as a motor mechanic. Rich has a fully equipped workshop complete with diagnostic equipment and can undertake servicing and repairs on most makes of cars.

MOTs by appointment and air conditioning service by prior arrangement.

RIDGEWAY GARAGE Family run business - established over 40 Years

For quality used cars at affordable prices - PART EXCHANGE WELCOME -

CLEAN CARS BOUGHT FOR CASH - LICENSED CREDIT BROKER

Kingsland Road, SHEPTON MALLET • Tel: 01749 342938 www.ridgeway-garage.com

● ● ● ● ● ●

The smart forecourt of Phillips Tyres, Castle Cary with its new signage.



Yeovil Auto Tuning

ESTABLISHED OVER 30 YEARS Repairs and Servicing Specialists MOT Testing – Classes IV, V and VII ... also Motorhomes 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)

COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE

9 Oxford Road, Pen Mill Trading Estate, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 426515 / 01935 411946

RICH’S AUTO SERVICES ◆ Servicing and repairs on all makes of car ◆ MOTs by appointment TYRES — EXHAUSTS — BATTERIES OPEN: MONday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday mornings by appointment

Unit 4, Torbay Road Trading Estate Torbay Road, CASTLE CARY, BA7 7DT

 01963 350568

THE VISITOR September 2015 21

L O O K I N G G O O D & Feeling Fine

Family Health with

Jenna Evans

Why Organic?

SEPTEMBER is Organic Month, a yearly celebration and promotion of this method of farming. This year’s theme is ‘Small Change, Big Difference’ but does organic farming really live up to the hype?

Is it worth the price difference?

Lets take a look.

There are lots of great reasons to go organic and one of the primary concerns for people has to be their consumption of pesticides and herbicides.

Residues of these chemicals can make their way into our food chain as well as damaging the environment. For instance toxic glyphosphates are thought to be present in as much as 30% of British bread. These herbicides are sprayed onto wheat fields a

few weeks prior to harvest, to kill the crop and remove weeds.

Residues could be present in more than just bread - all wheat based products such as cakes and biscuits could be at risk. Every year the Environmental Working Group list the ‘Dirty Dozen’, the 12 fruits and vegetables with the heaviest pesticide residues. This year's winners (or should that be losers?) are apples, peaches, nectarines, strawberries, grapes, celery, spinach, bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, snap peas and potatoes. The EWG also release a list of the ‘Clean 15’, produce with the lowest residues.

This year they were avocados, sweetcorn, pineapples, cabbage, sweet peas, onions, asparagus, mangoes, papaya, kiwi, eggplant, grapefruit, cantaloupe, cauliflower and sweet potatoes.

So if you eat lots of fruit and veg - and I very much hope you do!and can’t always get hold of, or afford, organic, use these lists to help you choose wisely. Local organic veg box schemes are also fantastic and you have the extra feel good factor of supporting your local economy - I think you might

be pleasantly surprised by some of the prices too.

Of course, some people aren’t convinced that eating organic could make that much of a difference to their health. Taste tests have often been controversial too, and you will no doubt have seen newspaper headlines professing the nutritional benefits of organic produce one week, and then dismissing them the next. In fact organic foods are often found to be richer nutritionally and there are good quality studies demonstrating higher levels of omega 3 fats in milk and more antioxidants in fruit and veg — check out the Soil Association website for links. One point we should all be able to agree on though are the benefits to the environment. Core principles of organic farming promote protection of wildlife and soils.

For instance crop rotation, composting and manures are used in preference to pesticides and herbicides as a means for controlling pests and maintaining fertility of the soil. Naturally genetic modification is forbidden and there is no routine use of drugs such as antibiotics and wormers in animals - preventing the problems of overuse that we have found in the human population. Ethical standards are higher too.

It’s not just our foods that can benefit from an organic overhaul.

Fabrics and cosmetics both have a growing selection of organic certified products. Textile production uses many noxious chemicals which not only have detrimental effects on the wildlife but also leave residues on the finished products. As for cosmetics, the skin is our largest organ and we do absorb much of

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22 THE VISITOR September 2015

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This stylish duster jacket, suitable for any occasion, will keep out the autumn chill available from Preview of Wincanton.

what we apply. Look for the symbol of an organic certification body and bear in mind that standards for organic vary across the world and our own UK based Soil Association is considered to have some of the best standards.

So I hope you agree that organic is the way to go and that small changes can indeed make a big difference - to our health, our wildlife and this beautiful earth we call home.

Jenna Evans ©2015.

 Jenna is an 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. Ceres also stock a good selection of organic fruits and vegetables and will be running promotions and tastings instore all through the month of September.

COMPARE OUR PRICES!

Research into weddings has revealed the modern bride and groom are abandoning the traditional white wedding ... and taking up some odd traditions instead

THE TRADITIONAL white wedding teeters on the edge of extinction as modern brides and grooms tear up the Wedding Etiquette Book and opt instead for ultra-modern refinements to

their big day in 2015, new national research has revealed.

The modern innovations start from the initial invitation as 22% are now issued via Facebook or other social network rather than the traditional card, sent through the post.

What’s more, one in every 20 wedding invites is dispatched by email, with a further 12% being sent by text message.

Ward & Sibley Family Jewellers situated at the bottom of Middle Street, Yeovil. Expert advice and a friendly service always available.

The Jewellers of Yeovil Where Quality & Service Count

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Please ask our staff for full offer details.

WARD & SIBLEY

Extensive range of Wedding Rings Special Orders undertaken Wide range of Bridesmaid, Page Boy & Best Man Gifts

THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop

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Panache: 28 – 46, D – K ‘Sculptresse’ Range: 36 – 46, D – K ... also Sports Bras Charnos: 30 – 38, A – H FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA Lepel: 30 – 38, A – G Saturday 12th September, Wessex Hotel, Street, 7pm Curvy Kate inc.“Scantilly” Royce Non-wired Bras * Girls First Bras Mastectomy Bras * Nursing Bras Miraclesuits: 10lbs lighter in 10 seconds

Lingerie

Vestry Court, Vestry Road, STREET

 01458 898952 • Turn by William Hill - opposite Living Homes

THE VISITOR September 2015 23

Thorngrove of Gillingham will be delighted to provide plants and trees for your wedding venue.

When it comes to the actual wedding ceremony, just 18% of British weddings will centre around a traditional church service this year, according to the study by leading hotel bookers LateRooms.com.

Indeed, of the polled 2,000 couples - who were either recently married or hoping to get married in the near future – 38.5% admit they held or are due to hold their entire wedding day in a hotel instead of choosing a church service and a reception at a different venue.

Once a mainstay of tradition, the white wedding dress is also being eschewed, with just a third of brides

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TREES & PLANTERS available to hire for weddings and other special events ... perfect to dress a marquee!

Visit or call Thorngrove Garden Centre to discuss your needs

 Summer Opening 9am – 5pm every day

24 THE VISITOR September 2015

To be held at The Wessex Hotel Ball Room STREET Saturday 12th September, 7pm Tickets £7.50 to inc.

A Glass of Wine and Raffle Tickets from the shop in Vestry Road FASHION from ...

Phase 8, Double 2, MAKE-UP by Benefit HAIR by Amber LINGERIE by Oomph & Lift to include Curvy Cate – new range Scantilly

now getting married in one. Almost as many, 28%, now walk up the aisle in a red or black dress.

Less than three in 10 weddings (28%) are now conducted by a priest or a vicar.

The overwhelming choice of minister for the modern wedding is an appointed civic official from the register office (48%) though many couples are now officially married by a friend (one in 20), while one in 10 wedding ceremonies are conducted by a ship’s captain.

Even the traditional roast dinner has been usurped in favour of more modern culinary delights when the wedding breakfast is served.

More than one in five weddings has an Italian-themed dish at the centre of its wedding breakfast, according to the research. And almost one in four couples (24.4%) chooses curry for their wedding breakfast.

Furthermore, 10 per cent of those tying the knot choose fish ‘n chips or their favourite take-out as the main meal on their big day.

Almost three-quarters of weddings this year buck the traditional top table at their wedding reception – inviting friends and step-parents to take a seat at the top table. Indeed, one in five weddings this year won’t even have a top table at their wedding reception.

More than half of all weddings (56%) in Britain won’t have traditional confetti throwing at their service. Some say this is down to the venue banning confetti but, for almost one in four (23%), it is a choice not to have the tradition.

Almost half of all modern weddings (49.9%) don’t stick to traditional wedding etiquette of having one best man and a handful of bridesmaids. Instead they have two or three best men and some even choose to have a best woman or Male of Honour instead.

The LateRooms.com research reveals that 77% of couples now pay all or the majority of the cost of their big day themselves – no longer relying on the tradition of the bride’s parents footing the bill.

Just 4% of weddings are paid for by the bride’s parents.

Only 25% of modern weddings stick to the tradition of having the wedding service in the bride’s home town or village, the poll indicates.

Ten percent of British weddings now take place abroad and 63% of couples choose a wedding venue they love outside of the bride’s hometown because they don’t want to be restricted by tradition.

More than one in five couples (20.2%) make a choice not to have the bride’s father give her away at the altar. And 53% of brides and grooms will not make traditional wedding vows to each other on their big day – with 18% writing their own and 35% adapting traditional vows to suit their own unique situation.

Just 18% of couples opt for a

traditional fruit wedding cake with 21.6% choosing a chocolate cake for their reception and a further 26% opting for a sponge cake. One in 20 couples now choose a cupcake tower for their wedding cake.

LateRooms.com spokeswoman Andrea Tarpey, said: ‘What we view as a traditional wedding

seems increasingly to be becoming a thing of the past. There is clearly a trend towards holding the entire wedding service in a single venue, usually a hotel.

‘Even the wedding gift list is now considered non-traditional. Fortyeight percent of newlyweds asked for cash donations instead of

wedding gifts in 2015 – so they can help pay off the cost of the wedding, the honeymoon or make a donation to charity. A further 10 percent of couples ask for money to do up their house.

‘With the cost of the average wedding now exceeding £20,000, it’s key for couples to be able to personalise their day into exactly what they want, with who they want and where they want, to make sure it’s truly the best day of their lives.’

One World

If you are looking for an unusual wedding gift, a visit to One World in South Petherton is a must.

Here you will find six individual showrooms over two floors displaying a beautiful range of gift items from around the world, and many of them Fair Trade.

Ceramic pots, wooden figures, rugs and hand made glass vases make unique gifts - you will also find within One World unusual

Bespoke • Corporate • Events Parties • Weddings • Sympathy Local & Nationwide Deliveries

For glorious wedding flowers please contact Lyn, Kim or Paula at Reed & Russell Flowers, 11 Church Street, Wincanton on 01963 32367, to arrange a free consultation.

01963 32367

11 Church Street, Wincanton, BA9 9AA

17 St James Street South Petherton Somerset TA13 5BS 01460 241166

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Hooper’s Hat Hire

100s of exquisite hats and fascinators to hire, buy, or made to complement your outfit

01935 706555 • www.hoopershats.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2015 25

ABC Wedding Dresses

greetings cards and stationery items to wrap your gift.

There is a stunning range of silver jewellery - ideal as a gift for older bridesmaids. For the younger bridesmaids and page boys visit the toy department with its wonderful selection of traditional toys. Do call in.

100s of Bridal Gowns ... to suit all tastes and budgets

Prom / Evening Gowns

 Appointments Only  Over 25 Years Experience

ABC Wedding Dresses The Loft, Old Kelways Somerton Road, Langport, TA10 9SJ Tel: 07710 985321 Free parking outside the door

Eleanor Florence

The Bridal Gown

Traditional White Weddings may be on the edge of extinction but every bride-to-be wants to wear a dress she will feel beautiful in, and one that her husband-to-be and the guests will admire and remember.

Bridal Prom & Ball Gowns

Some women want to shy away from the traditional gown and walk down the aisle in something a little more creative and unusual, that’s not to say you have to forgo the white, you could just mix up the fabric, length or overall style to produce a dress unique to you.

Here are some suggestions: A gown with a bodice made from real flowers, rosebuds perhaps.

A fairytale dress with a sparkly top and a full skirt made-up of different coloured layers of tulle.

A traditional white or cream full-skirted dress - with a twist a vivid-colour or patterned lining.

How about a simple ball gown they come in a variety of styles, to suit all shapes and sizes and in a myriad of beautiful pastel or jewel colours.

If you don’t want to look like a meringue, a simple slim-fitting dress with a fishtail looks really elegant.

And vintage dresses are very popular - particularly 1950s style, fitted at the waist with a midlength flared skirt with plenty of net petticoats.

So, the choice is yours. Pick a dress that you love, no matter what the cut and colour – after all, it’s your big day and you should be able to wear whatever you want.

Eleanor Florence

Eddy K.

www.eleanorflorence.co.uk

35 Princes Street, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1EG  01935 472670 info@eleanorflorence.co.uk

Just one of the stunning motherof-the-bride outfits now available from Eleanor Florence of Yeovil.

Aqua coloured chiffon, cap sleeved dress with banding detail complete with co-ordinating coat.

Forever Fashion Vintage Bridal Boutique

A bridal boutique dedicated to everything you need for an authentic vintage wedding For the Bride: Wedding Dresses (pre-war to 1980s) Veils  Headpieces  Jewellery  Lingerie Shoes  Vintage Furs  Capes (made to order)

For the Bridal Party: Hats  Vintage Occasionwear Coats and Capes  Men’s Suit Hire

For the Venue: Linen Hire (Edwardian, Deco and 50s) Antique Glassware  China and Tea Sets Hand-Crafted Bunting & Decorations Open Friday - Saturday 10am - 5pm or call for an appointment

Forever Fashion

Church Street, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9AF (opposite church and car park)

Tel: 01963 34308 foreverfashion1987@gmail.com

26 THE VISITOR September 2015

Eleanor Florence are now stocking a wonderful selection of mother-of-the-bride outfits by a range of personally selected designers. Sizes range from 10 to 24. Matching hats are available and shoes can be dyed to match any outfit.

For the bride, proving popular this season is the shorter ‘vintage style’ wedding dress. To see the complete range visit their Princes Street shop or see them at one of the following Wedding Fayres.

September 6th Yeovilton (to include a fashion show) September 20th George Albert Hotel, Evershot also Holiday Inn, Taunton September 27th The Manor, Yeovil

Forever Fashion

Forever Fashion Vintage Bridal Boutique of Wincanton will have stands at the following Wedding Fayres: September 13th The Lighthouse, Poole September 20th The Cheese & Grain, Frome September 27th The Manor Hotel, Yeovil October 11th Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford

Orange Blossom

Beautiful Bridal gown with full skirt- just one of many breathtaking gowns available from Orange Blossom of Street.

Now in its 21st year, Orange Blossom Bridal Boutique in Street should be on any bride’s list to visit.

Christina’s expertise and personal service will make shopping for your wedding dress a memorable experience, just as it should be at this most special of times.

Whether you are looking for pure fairytale, understated chic and elegance, or something in between, Orange Blossom will have the style for you. With prices ranging from £775 to £1,550 there are dresses to suit all budgets and with a range of sizes to try on, up to size 24, you will be spoilt for choice.

Orange Blossom’s eagerly awaited new collection will be in shortly, what better time to start looking for your perfect wedding dress!

Grooms and the other men in your wedding party are not forgotten, Orange Blossom also offers mens formal hire, with Michael, Christina’s husband,

Autumn Collection Now Arriving

offering the same dedicated service.

Book your appointment on 01458 840006, visit their website: www.orangeblossombridal.co.uk or contact them via Facebook

Preview of Wincanton

Whatever the occasion Preview of Wincanton pride themselves on their personal service.

Friendly and helpful advice is always at hand from their knowledgeable staff who are happy to help you put an outfit together.

New Autumn ranges are now arriving and include a range of new labels including Latte from Italy.

Grey is the new black this autumn which acts as a perfect foil to pillar box red, aubergine, teal and other jewel colours.

Skirts are straight and simple this season from Gardeur and their ever popular trousers and formal jeans are plain with a self Jacquard designs.

Leather is very much in vogue this season and Joseph Ribkoff

Exciting new labels including ...

 Latte of Italy  Hawick Knitwear  Micha Knitwear Always a good choice of accessories

Call in and see our complete range Personal and friendly service

fashion boutique

Market Place, Wincanton  01963 31676

THE VISITOR September 2015 27

Special occasion? Living Pretty of Curry Rivel offer an outside catering service – also vintage china hire as pictured left.

have brought out beautifully soft leather jackets with waterfall front and zip detail also a lattice open work box jacket. For those who don't want to go the whole way with leather there are knitted jackets with leather sleeves and detailing.

Just arrived is a show-stopping zebra-print lightweight coat and for those who want understatement there is a stylish black duster coat with 3/4 length sleeves.

There is a wide range of knitwear arriving from tailored jackets and jumpers through to easy-to-wear longer length tops ideal with winter tweeds.

Do call in and see the new range for yourself.

To advertise in our SPRING WEDDINGS FEATURE ... call 01963 351256 to book your space today!

Wedding? Celebration?

Vintage China Hire

We provide the most beautifully and carefully selected pieces to ensure your event is truly awe-inspiring.

Despite being mismatched there is a sense of continuity and elegance throughout our collection. So if you have an affection for all things vintage and beautiful and would like to create an event which is both memorable and marvellous, please do get in touch and we can discuss your requirements whatever they may be.

Bay trees, palms and a variety of other trees and plants are available to hire from Superplants. For more information please call 01963 348420 or visit the website: www.superplants.co.uk

Dazzling!

We Offer a Bespoke Outside Catering Service Cakes Made to Order  Hen Party Celebration Tea Parties

Somerset Afternoon Cream Tea For Two – £20 Delicious Finger Sandwiches Homemade Cakes, Scones and Clotted Cream All served on a Vintage Style Cake Stand with China Teacups and Saucers

Hire Trees, Plants and Statuary Cutting the Wedding Cake represents the sharing of good fortune. Alex and Gemma Gliddon pictured.

kate@livingpretty.co.uk • www.livingpretty.co.uk THE OLD BAKERY • HIGH STREET CURRY RIVEL • SOMERSET • TA10 0ES Tel: 01458 253357

28 THE VISITOR September 2015

www.superplants.co.uk 01963 348420

The Visitor

CAN BE READ ONLINE: www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

GARDENING

GARDENING MONTHLY

by Richard Cumming Orchard Park

There’s a colourful time ahead ...

SUMMER SLIPS SLOWLY past our garden chair; impossible to hang on to as it will do what it does. Personably I love all the seasons except long grey wet winters, each season has highs and lows but something good to offer. However I do still feel robbed when one season goes.

Probably my own fault if I missed the peak of bluebells in spring, or lie on the lawn in July sunshine, but I think you get where I am going with this now, it’s in the nature of ‘regrets I’ve had a few, but there again too few to mention’ as the next season will arrive and with it more highs and lows. August into September can be subtle, hardly noticed. Schools start back, last year’s school leavers start again somewhere else with a job, training or more education, family life centres back around daily chores leaving the holiday mood behind. But the garden is still there to provide leisure and a haven away from routine, and some of the most exciting changes with flower and leaf colours are about to arrive as the temperature falls and the days shorten.

Every home has a different garden space and we all have different ideas of what we want.

Gardeners are great at sharing and stealing ideas which have to change as a garden matures. Even a new house with a bare patch a year ago starts to look as if it is now established with plants growing and gaining height and shape. Our own garden changed about 30 years ago when we took in field and planted it up. The bits that looked small and insignificant for so long are now overgrown with trees shading out previously planned sunny borders. In that time we have discovered new bits of garden so a sunny bit is now shady and can support a different range of plants, or we might cut back and clear some mature shrubs to create a new part back in the light. This time of late summer moving into early autumn is not a bad time for making a few changes like that which gives the chance to add a bit of colour that works now. There are so many good plants for September and October but they tend to get ignored in summer when they are either not performing or simply can’t compete with the gaudy summer revellers!

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 Stihl  Cobra  Alpina  Tanaka  Garden Care  Kawasaki

LEE HOLMES Garden Machinery

15 Cary Court, Bancombe Business Park, SOMERTON Tel: 01458 274261 • www.gardenmachineryrus.co.uk

Plant of the Month

Japanese Anemone - known as the Windflower, these are hardy herbaceous perennials that bloom in late summer and autumn producing masses of pink and white flowers. They can be grown in sun or shade. In any reasonable soil. To get the best results, add organic matter to the soil such as garden compost or well-rotted farmyard manure.

This will add air and retain moisture in summer, but drain in winter and avoid water logging.

Anemones produce a multitude of flowers in late summer and

autumn which is great for lighting up a dark corner of the garden and is highly recommended as a good performing late Summer/Autumn flowering perennial.

Varieties include pale pink ‘September Charm’, double midpink ‘Queen Charlotte’, dark pinky-red double ‘Prinz Heinrich’ which carries the RHS AGM award as does also the white ‘Honorine Jobert’.

Grow in well-drained, humusrich soil in sun or partial shade.

The plants often spread by themselves, creating new clumps which can be lifted and planted

Made To Measure

Gates & Railings • Handrails • Garden Furniture Curtain Poles • Pond Covers, etc.

General Welding & Repairs

Enquiries: 01935 864444 Unit 5, East Coker Saw Mills East Coker, BA22 9JJ

Garden Machinery Specialists

Sales • Service • Repairs

Most makes & models Experienced and helpful staff

“Mowers to suit all requirements”

Engineering Ltd

Unit 2, Beardly Batch Depot, Cannards Grave SHEPTON MALLET, BA4 4NB Tel: 01749 343881 • www.moggsofwells.com

PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD R. W. PRINCE LTD

Suppliers of Quality Recycled Aggregates Top Soil – Crushed Concrete – Road Planings All Types of Limestone Aggregates Sand and Gravel – Decorative Aggregates Asphalt Plant / Asphalt Products – Hot Box Hire Grab Lorries – Tipper Hire – Muckaway

New Asphalt Plant Installed

20mm Base • 10mm Top Coats • 6mm Top Coats Lime Stone or Hard

Small Loads Collected or Delivered 7am – 4pm Daily • Monday – Friday ✴ Road Sweeper Hire ✴

Please call to enquire if we can help you with anything

PODIMORE RECYCLING LTD. Podimore,Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8JG Tel: 01935 849250 • Fax: 01935 849099 Mobile: 07973 844145

THE VISITOR September 2015 29

elsewhere, rather than having to divide the parent plant. Be aware that in some conditions the clumps can be quite persistent and be a bit of a nuisance, they are after all, in the same family as the buttercup! However to my mind they are real autumn joys

and will grow where many plants give up.

Bristol based photographer Jason Ingram, who specialises in gardens food people and interiors for a number of magazines and books, has a special affection for these plants.

GRAS S ground to scarifyin & B R U S H h g u ro G 0 IN 6 T 1 A 0 p lantat g, orchard C U T T I N G ROTAV . Tel: 07659 55 s, io s d T e e b l: 076 ns, playing paddocks, d see 59 55 0160 fields etc . lift h hig MI NI DI GG IN G an d 0160 dumper. Tel: 07659 55 NING MOSS C L E A g etc.

H T PROB A P tin spiking L P A T I O chanical poin , coring EMS scarif e ying m , Tel: 07 0 d 6 n a 01 659 550 659 55 160 Tel: 07

Approved contractor to Dorset & Somerset C.C.

He says “Japanese anemones are extremely photogenic flowers which brighten up the garden in late-summer or autumn, producing simple saucers in white and various shades of pink. They are a 'must have' border plant for the Autumn and put on a fantastic display in the period where most gardens are starting to look tired and over.

I love that their beauty adds a whole new dimension of colour and texture to my garden."

Jobs for the Month

September is quite an active month. In the veg garden the harvest is still underway and top fruit crops are now ripening rapidly. It looks like being a bumper year for apples and pears,

QUALIFIED ARBORIST

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE AND DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL

TR EE PLA N TIN G

PHONE: NORTH CADBURY 440660 Full ground preparation and laying service available

The Farmhouse, Somerton Door, SOMERTON, TA11 6JA Tel / Fax: 01458 272091 www.evergreen-turf.co.uk • info@evergreen-turf.co.uk

Utilise the generous grants now available to restock neglected woodland or areas of wasteground

with plums doing well in most locations.

Potatoes have been spared blight up to the time of writing, but it is worth cutting back the foliage (the ‘haulm’) now even if they are not dug for another couple of weeks. This prevents disease affecting the tubers, as well as allowing the skins of the potatoes to ripen.

Beans have taken a long while to get going in my garden this year – partly due to the rabbits and voles, so I need to keep them going as long as possible. Don’t leave the old beans on the plant and keep them well fed and watered.

Tomatoes have a better flavour if ripened on the plant, and assuming they are growing under glass or polythene will keep going for a while yet if cared for.

Leafy crops can get hammered by birds who wait until your back is turned. Well secured netting will protect them without creating a hazard for the birds.

Lawns can be renovated this month with worn and bare patches oversown (after a bit of preparation) and new lawns sown or turfed. Established lawns

for all your Tool Hire Requirements including Mini Digger Hire and Garden Machinery Higher Farm, Sutton, Ditcheat Tel: 01749 860199 • Mob: 0777 163 2221

All types of Fencing

• Gates • Trellis • Fence Panels • Tool Sheds • Summer Houses • Garages • Workhouses • Greenhouses • Field Shelters Alan Dodge BSc

QUALITY FENCING PANELS AND TIMBER C L ANV I LL E SA WM IL LS LT D Clanville • Castle Car y (on the B3153)

Monday to Thursday - 8am to 5pm Friday - 8am to 4pm

Castle Cary (01963) 350881

30 THE VISITOR September 2015

All Buildings are hand-made at Bourton using Scandinavian Redwood Shiplap Timber.

Bourton, Gillingham on the old A303 Nr. Zeals For Free Survey/Estimate/Brochure

TELEPHONE 01747 840752

PLANT WORLD For the best plants!

For all your gardening needs

Do Call In • Open 7 Days a Week • Ample FREE Parking

Milton On Stour, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5QA Tel: 01747 824015

really do benefit from an autumn lawn feed, high in potash and phosphates, to build strong roots ahead of the winter. The other useful task is to kill off badly mossed areas, and using a garden fork make holes through the thatch of grass to help drainage over winter. If you can brush in some fine grit or sandy lawn dressing, then so much the better.

I have been doing a lot more pruning this summer than in previous years especially on apple trees, the advantage is that hard pruning in summer doesn’t promote the same strong growth that it would in winter or spring.

Most of it should be completed by now and sometimes it is hard to see what to cut out of a tree in full leaf, but it does work.

Dormant season pruning can then clear up anything you missed and tidy up fruiting wood.

Same applies to Wisteria and non-repeat flowering climbing and rambling roses.

New seasons bulbs are now coming into the garden centres.

The ground may be too hard to plant them just yet and you can

TREE SURGERY SPECIALISTS Crown Thinning and Reduction Dead and Dangerous Trees Removed New Trees Supplied and Planted Tree Stumps Removed Approved Contractor to Somerset County Council and Local Councils

Phone B. P. MONTGOMERY for a FREE Estimate Tel: 01963 240532 Mobile: 07970 397248 Email: brutontreecare@hotmail.com

easily wait until October, but it really is worth buying your bulbs early to get the best choice of varieties and quality bulbs. They can be stored for a few weeks without any harm.

GreenWorks Tools

Stop wearing out your arm on a pull cord. Stop filling petrol cans.

The GreenWorks Tools Lithium System of Tools require none of these!

Fencing & Gates Supplied and Erected by the

The tools are cordless and run on a lightweight lithium battery which runs up to 3 times longer than a normal battery.

The battery can be charged at any time with no negative memory effect so they will be at peak power even after hundreds of charge cycles.

With up to 5 times less discharge rates than NiCd batteries your tool will be ready to use even after months of

YEOVIL & SHERBORNE FENCING & GATE Co.

FREE Estimates • No VAT Pressure Treated Material 10 Year Guarantee

01935 330095

Powered by innovation ... not petrol

Powered by innovation, not by petrol, GreenWorks Tools combine Lithium-ion battery technology with high-efficiency motors to create the largest selection of cordless outdoor tools with petrol-comparable performance.

CORDLESS – LIGHT – 60 MINUTES RUNNING TIME G-MAX Cordless Mower 40V, 35cm (14˝) 2-in-1 GW2500067-A

£199.99

G-MAX Cordless Trimmer / Edger 40V, 30cm (12˝) GW21107-A

£179.99

Specimen Plants Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance for Corporate & Discerning Clients

www.superplants.co.uk 01963 348420

storage, whether in extreme heat or cold.

Lithium-ion battery chargers are Energy Star rated and reduce energy usage by an average of 35%.

The one battery is compatible and can charge all 18 plus power tools.

For more information call at Ben Johnson Garden Machinery of Shaftesbury or visit their website.

G-MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer 40V, 61cm (24˝) GW22637T-A

£189.99

G-MAX Cordless Blower 40V, 240 km/h (150 mph) GW24107-A

BenJohnson

£159.99

GARDEN MACHINERY

G-MAX Cordless Mower 40V, 45cm (18˝) 4-in-1 GW2500107-B

£329.99

G-MAX Cordless Long Reach Hedge Trimmer 40V, 51cm (20˝) GW22147T-A

£209.99

G-MAX Cordless Chainsaw 40V, 30cm (12˝) GW20117-A

£189.99

 All prices include battery & charger

 Battery & charger fit all GreenWorks Tools so only one is required

 For further details call in or visit our website: www.benjohnsonmowers.com

Ben Johnson, 17d Wincombe Business Park SHAFTESBURY, SP7 9QJ Tel: 01747 851021 • www.benjohnsonmowers.com

THE VISITOR September 2015 31

House & Home

Muchelney Pottery at Fifty 1965 - 2015

This year Muchelney Pottery reaches its 50th anniversary and to celebrate they are launching a very special exhibition on Saturday 5th September, 10am-

4pm. The gallery will showcase the catalogue range of kitchenware pots which has evolved since the Pottery began in 1965, as well as the latest signed work by John Leach, Nick Rees and Mark Melbourne. There

will also be a selection of woodcut prints by Harry Brockway who has been documenting working life at Muchelney Pottery.

On the 5th, as well as the

FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION With over 30 years of building experience — NO HIDDEN EXTRAS —

All works completed by our experienced and reliable team

Services Include but not limited to: Project Management ★ New Build Planning ★ Loft Conversions Carpentry ★ Roofing Ground Works ★ Refurbishment Renovation ★ Commercial Property Maintenance ★ Joinery

All aspects of Building & Maintenance All Insurance Works Undertaken

Contact us for a free estimate

(01935) 823346

www.countrybuild.co.uk • info@countrybuild.co.uk

COCK & SON BUILDING CONTRACTORS Established Since1957

 Specialists in renovation and restoration of older properties

 Extensions and alterations undertaken

 Specialists in barn conversions

 Purpose built joinery, doors, windows, etc.

All Work Guaranteed

Tel: NORTH CADBURY (01963) 440931 Yard Office adj. Orchard Leigh, Long Street Galhampton, Yeovil, Somerset

32 THE VISITOR September 2015

Cider Bottle commemorating 50 years of business for Muchelney Pottery, Muchelney, near Langport, TA10 0DW. Photo: Carole Melbourne.

gallery, they are opening the doors to the rest of the Pottery.

The potters will be available to show you around the kiln shed and there will be demonstrations in the workshop (Between 10-1 and 2-4).

Muchelney Pottery was established in 1965 by John Leach and his wife Lizzie. John set up the Pottery having trained with his grandfather Bernard, and his father David to continue the tradition of high quality handmade ceramics. John with Nick Rees (who has worked at Muchelney for 43 years), were the core team for many years along with students who came to learn the craft of working with clay.

One of these students was Mark Melbourne who has been part of the Muchelney team for 16 years.

Muchelney Pottery is about the making of robustly made shapes with flame-licked decoration. The family tradition is based on knowledge about a natural substance and how it can be worked with to create items of beauty and function. Inspiration for pieces comes from a variety of sources, from the land (especially John’s wild life pond) to travels that John has made as far as Africa, then back to Taunton Museum which houses the Black Jack leather jug from Montacute House. Pieces are all about understanding line and form – a feast for the eyes as well as the hand! The success of the Pottery is founded on traditional team values and the quest at all times for quality.

Always keen to develop new ideas and moving forward to develop the business John and Lizzie opened a gallery in 2003.

The John Leach Gallery marked the start of a new era with a fabulous venue to show their work and the work of other artists of local and world renown.

See the advert for Muchelney Pottery on our Leisure pages.

Within SJH Carpets

The Tythings Commercial Centre Southgate Road, Wincanton CLEARANCE SALE

Massive reductions on all stock including Cushions, Biggie Best Gifts, Poles Fabric Remnants, Haberdashery Cushion Inners & more ...

COMMENCING THURSDAY 3rd SEPTEMBER ~ FOR ONE WEEK ONLY ~

Tel: 07883 089 333

Harriet Sandys 2015 Summer Bazaar

Don’t forget that Harriet Sandys is opening The Barn at Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet, BA4 4PB over the forthcoming Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday 29th Monday 31st August from 2pm 5pm daily.

Here you will find Harriet’s stunning new collection of soft furnishings including carpets, rugs, runners, cushions and block print breadspreads, plus carved wood furniture from the North West Frontier, and a selection of table lamps.

Geometric Vibes

Both the catwalk and interiors have ventured into modern riffs on geometrics patterns. Current influences range from tribal and Moorish designs to molecular structures and sacred geometry and we are seeing it in both surface design and 3D by way of bold geometric lights and home accessories. DesResDesign offers these stunning wall panels to add instant geometric vibes to a home.

House & Home

Evocative Andalusian Geometry

This wall panel oozes charm and style with random patterned mozaic tiles patchworked together. Hand painted tiles mix geometric and floral with strong Moorish and Andalusian

Need a new conservatory?

Replacement windows or doors?

SOMERTON LTD

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

workshop

being repaired

★ Estimates ★ Bench or field service

FULL RANGE OF PANASONIC TVS IN STOCK FOR SALE ... DO CALL IN

FULL RANGE OF Replacement Windows Replacement Doors Conservatories Fascia / Soffitt / Guttering Secondary Glazing

SERVICES ...

■ Window Repairs ■ Handles / Hinges ■ Misted Up Units ■ Garage Doors ■ Blinds / Fly Screens

QUALITY PRODUCTS All products adhere to as endorsed by celebrity world snooker champion Steve Davis

H.R. Hodge

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm • Saturday 9am - 1pm

38 St. James Street South Petherton TA13 5BW  01460 240645

PERSONAL SERVICE No faceless sales team: Craig Turner (proprietor) will be happy to discuss your requirements, or alternatively call in to the showrooms

ACF WINDOWS

ANDY FELTHAM

Say you saw it in The Visitor

This wonderful wall panel conjures up a setting of an

– of –

★ Loan TV whilst

Tel / Fax: 01963 371715 Mobile: 07802 393344

This beautiful wall panel offers a more free form feel, combining industrial warehouse vibes with a contemporary rough-lux edge.

Vintage Tin Geometric

TURNER WINDOWS

REPAIR SERVICE

The Old Well House Shepherds Hill, Buckhorn Weston GILLINGHAM, Dorset SP8 5HX

Deconstructed Vintage

Look closely to see old bricks, geometric ceramic tiles, old paint and worn posters all working together. Very stylish.

contact

★ All makes of TV repaired ★ On the premises

UPVC REPLACEMENT WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES, WOODEN FRAMED WINDOWS, FASCIA BOARDS, CLADDING, GUTTERING, ALUMINIUM WINDOWS & DOORS ETC.

influences. Would look stunning in bathroom, kitchen or hallway.

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

PVC-U Aluminium

FENSA Registered Company sales@turnerwindows.co.uk www.turnerwindows.co.uk

“This installation is the best we have ever had. You did what it said on the tin.

Your men started on time, your team of two (Jason and Alec) were courteous ... nothing was too much trouble ... took great care and left the house clean and tidy.

We employ an assortment of tradesmen and there are only two or three that we would endorse. Welcome to the club.” – David & Pam Watts (February 2013) Just one of many testimonials from satisfied customers ★ See online for further personal recommendations

Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd

Call 01458 272555

Unit 3 Bancombe Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB Today for a FREE no obligation quote

THE VISITOR September 2015 33

House & Home

industrial loft, and also has an old colonial India vibe. Available in two colours - grey and a darker vintage bronze. A great way to add some character to a room.

Contemporary Houndstooth

This update on a classic geometric seems to have rhythm and 3D vibe as the bright fluidy-inky background breaks though the foreground geometry. A real statement.

Gentle Mosiac Geometry

From the ‘Guess How Much I Love You’ range ‘I love you right up to the moon’ by Anita Jeram, available from Martock Gallery, Martock.

Prints ★ Paintings ★ Bronzes ★ Mirrors ★ Framing Passport Photographs ★ Prints to Canvas

‘Cool Surf Dude, Bantham Beach’ by Sasha Harding Limited Edition 75 Giclee Prints • 19" x 18" • Framed £150

Martock Gallery Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00, Saturday 9.30 - 4.30

Water Street • Martock • Tel: (01935) 823254 • www.martockgallery.com

Shabby Chic Furniture at Totally Floored in Wincanton - don't forget to cut out the coupon in their advert in this month’s Visitor and save yourself 10%.

Beautiful Kitchens Made in Somerset

Come and visit our new workshop and showroom The Old Yard Logge Farm, West Street South Petherton TA13 5DJ

KITCHENS & FURNITURE HANDCRAFTED IN SOMERSET

34 THE VISITOR September 2015

 01460 241261

email: info@eternalkitchens.co.uk www.eternalkitchens.co.uk

... of Wincanton Celebrates Totally Floored 10 Years of Trading!

Totally Floored Carpet and Flooring Specialists celebrate their 10th anniversary this month!

Stuart Bright – Proprietor.

A welcoming smile from Nicki, Debby, and Katie.

PROPRIETOR Stuart Bright has over 35 years in the carpet industry and has built his business from scratch. With a lot of hard work and much-valued local support, Stuart now runs this thriving flooring business and employs 6 members of staff.

Totally Floored offer a full range of flooring to suit all tastes and budgets. There is an extensive range of carpets from leading makes such as Penthouse and Cormar to choose from. Proving popular at present is the fashionable contemporary striped carpet in a range of colour ways. Shades of grey are particularly popular, taking over from neutral / beige – but whatever you choose you can be sure of a first class service from Totally Floored.

Totally Floored use their own fully trained fitters, who, unlike many companies, will actually move the furniture for you from the designated room, lay the carpet, dispose of the old carpet and replace the furniture! A free no obligation quote is available.

In addition to the carpet library some roll carpet is stocked – any orders taken are normally available within 24 hours. Rugs are stocked or customers may have their carpet offcuts bound.

In addition to carpets and vinyls there is natural flooring from Crucial Trading and Ker Saint Cobb, wood, engineered wood and laminates from Woodpecker, plus a collection of ceramic floor tiles. In order to compare and contrast the different types of flooring available the showroom floor has a selection fitted. A full range of carpet accessories is available including stair rods in a choice of finishes.

In addition to domestic work Totally Floored undertake commercial contracts from schools, nursing homes and businesses.

See the picture gallery on their website – customers include Perrott Hill School, Kings School, Bruton, and The Quicksilver Mail Inn.

 Furniture & Gifts – On display in the showroom is a range of vintage and shabby chic painted furniture – stock constantly changes and includes chests, dressers, bedside cabinets and more (see facebook page). Should you require a specific item please ask and if possible it will be sourced for you. An eclectic range of gifts is also on sale including scented candles, bath bombs, jewellery, handbags, mirrors and clocks. Gift vouchers are available.

Meet the team: Stuart, Dan, Stephen and Terry ... plus Alfie & Elmo.

10% OFF ALL CARPETS & FLOORING Valid for September & October Expires 31st October 2015

 TO CELEBRATE the 10th ANNIVERSARY Totally Floored are offering a 10% DISCOUNT ON EVERYTHING! Just cut out the coupons below. Now is the ideal time to get a new carpet before Christmas or to start on the Christmas gift list.

10% OFF ALL GIFT ITEMS RUGS & FURNITURE Valid for September only Expires 30th September 2015

Totally Floored • Carrington Way • Wincanton • BA9 9JS Tel: 01963 33305 • Mob: 07779 729473 www.totallyfloored.co.uk • email: totallyfloored@btconnect.com THE VISITOR September 2015 35

Give your home House & Home a new look ...

From afar a gentle explosion of colour and pattern, and up close details of glass, stone and paint spalshes. A really harmonious geometric.

The technical information for all wall panels is as follows:  Made in a high quality vinyl on a non woven base  Image is printed on an embossed artists canvas surface finish

Roger Oates

Stair Runners by Roger Oates

Stylish flat weave, carefully designed, beautifully woven and finished to a high standard

 Panel is 3 drops of W68cm each

 Total dimension of panel is W204cm x H300cm

 The design can be repeated both horizontally and vertically

 Good light fastness (resistance)  Wipe clean  £313.00

ENGINEERED OAK Oiled Single Plank Flooring ... just £34.99 per square metre

Wood and Laminates

◆ Luxury Vinyl Tiles – Amtico – Karndean – Moduleo ◆ Natural Flooring – Sisal – Coir ◆ Tiles – Ceramic Wall & Floor Tile Showroom

BLINDS

Blinds

Roman – Roller – Venetian – Wood ★ Free Estimate ★ Free Measuring

★ Professional Fitting by our own Expert Fitters ★ Friendly and Personal Service ★ Competitive Prices “Just nice people to do business with”

SJH CARPETS

Southgate Road, Wincanton  01963 824418

Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 1pm Wincanton

36 THE VISITOR September 2015

Also at: High Street, Tisbury  01747 871178 (Closed Wednesday)

For further information on any

of the above wall panels visit www.desresdesign.co.uk

So, what’s the latest trend ...

Bright florals, that’s what!

No longer are floral patterns reserved for country-style or traditional homes; the Ideal Home Show Shop tips will help you use florals as part of a contemporary look. The perfect partner for neutral, white or pale grey walls and floors; this blank canvas can be brightened by adding bold floral prints. Add block colour pieces of furniture around the room in complementing colours to your floral pattern and dot vases, lampshades, tea lights and picture frames to coordinate your colours.

The modern floral look

To keep your floral style contemporary, use a rich charcoal sofa which will emphasize the bold colours in your cushions.

Combine geometric patterns with hand-painted flower designs while adding some texture with contrasting fabrics such as velvet.

Extend your pattern from your

AP Kitchen Solutions FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN

 Kitchens replaced for a fresh new look – at a reasonable price

 Complete new kitchens designed to suit you

 Replacement doors – “don’t replace it, reface it”

 Huge choice of granite and quartz worksurfaces  Full range of accessories and appliances

 Full project management & qualified local installers  We offer an expert and friendly service

 01935 849559

To discuss your personal requirements contact Adam or call at our showroom

Northover, ILCHESTER, BA22 8LD www.apkitchens.co.uk

House & Home

cushions by adding a feature chair covered in a watercolourinpired bloom print finished with a block colour cushion for an eyecatching statement.

Contemporary floral accessories

Create focal points around the room by adding shelves to display your trinkets and ornaments.

Keep the exterior of the shelves the same colour as your wall but use bold shades of aqua, raspberry and mustard yellow to paint the inner back to draw the eye to your display. Fresh houseplants will make an interesting seasonal addition to your shelves and surfaces, but keep them contemporary by using

silver galvanised or copper planters to hold them.

Householders - Beware of Bogus Telephone Calls about Council Tax!

Bogus calls are being made to residents in Somerset telling them they are due a Council Tax refund and asking for their bank details.

If you get a call from someone saying they are from the Council and asking for your bank details to give you a refund, please do not give out your bank details.

Ask the caller for their name and telephone number and say you will call them back, then telephone South Somerset District Council (SSDC) on 01935

Bryan G. Paulley Ltd Domestic / Commercial Installations / Replacements

Plastic / Metal Tanks • Temporary Tanks Leaking Tanks • Tank Cleaning / Moving / Disposal Above or Below Ground Tanks

Tel: 01963 363870 • Mob: 07836 502683 office@halletsfarm.fsnet.co.uk • www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk

Unit 11, Brickfields Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JX

Tel: 01747 826714

www.townandcountryaerials.co.uk

Get the most from your Smart TV

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

We can help with ...

Smart TV connection / networking

TV aerial & satellite dishes - supplied, installed, repaired Extra points

Commercial installation - multipoints e.g. flats, holiday parks, care homes, etc.

Experienced engineers

c soni Pana pplied su TVs and lled insta

Work in conservation areas, listed buildings, etc.

We cover your area ...

YEOVIL – SHERBORNE – WINCANTON GILLINGHAM etc.

Your local Sky expert

Chameleon

Over 20 displays on view in our showrooms ...

Bedrooms Kitchens Home Office ■ FREE design service ensuring best use of space ■ Extensive choice

■ Excellent quality – sensible pricing ■ Traditional and modern styling

■ A family-run business

“Transform your home” with ...

bedrooms • kitchens • home office

5 & 6 Bancombe Court, Bancombe Road Trading Estate, Somerton, TA11 6SB

Tel: 01458 272699

steve@chameleonbk.co.uk • www.chameleonbk.co.uk AMPLE FREE PARKING

THE VISITOR September 2015 37

House & Home

462462 and ask for the Revenues Team. The Team can check your account to see if you are due a refund and let you know how it will be paid.

If you pay your Council Tax to SSDC by direct debit, they will already have your bank d e t a i l s . A nd i f y o u p a y b y another method, they would send you a refund cheque.

Cllr Peter Seib, SSDC Portfolio Holder for Revenues & Benefits, said: ‘Telephone scams are prevalent at the moment and, in this case, they

promise a refund of Council Tax. It is important that you do not pass on any bank account details.’

Needful Things

At Needful Things this Autumn you will discover a wonderful emporium of ideas for you and your home. Now, at the start of their 17th year in Castle Cary, this popular store will be delighting us once more with unusual and striking designs for gifts, ladies clothing and soft furnishings. Expect to see

City Decorating Supplies

QUALITY PAINT & WALLPAPER

No. 1 The Old Chapel Union Street Car Park WELLS BA5 2PU 01749 677299

Come in and see us for expert help and advice.

Come and take a virtual tour of the shop online ... just google City Decorating Supplies Wells is a beautiful city with incredible architecture and bustling markets so come down for the day and visit!

Next day delivery service anywhere in the UK Open: Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm, Saturday 9am – 4pm • NEXT TO CAR PARK Email: citydecoratingsupplies@gmail.com

38 THE VISITOR September 2015

intriguing window displays; sumptuous fabrics; clothes to enhance even the most stylish wardrobes, and of course, autumn gift and decorative ideas which will enthuse and uplift you. Needful Things is the kind of store which cannot be missed whenever you're in town, as it's ever changing stock provides continuous inspiration and delight. Come and join in the fun at this happy group of shops ... you never know what you might find there!

You’ll find plenty of interesting items at Needful Things of Castle Cary to enhance your home.

House & Home

KITCHENS AND HOUSE RENOVATIONS We project manage from start to finish!

UR MS O T O I VIS OWRO SH

Stylish kitchens to suit you

■ Contemporary or traditional ■ Wide choice of finishes including – high gloss, wood and painted ■ Free planning ■ Free design service

Study / Home Office Furniture

Working from home?

Surfing the net?

Do it in comfort and style ... with our “Home Office Design”

This stylish kitchen is just one of many available from Sherborne Kitchens of Sherborne.

New Kitchen? House Renovation?

We project manage from start to finish!

■ Plan and design ■ Undertake the construction work ■ Install and fit units / appliances ■ Electrics ■ Plumbing ■ Plastering ■ Complete on time to a high standard O OU L INT C AL

R SHOWROOMS

TOD A

Y

SHERBORNE KITCHENS & HOUSE RENOVATIONS

The Old Bakery, Half Moon Street SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN Through the archway next to the Half Moon Hotel

Tel: 01935 817111

Email: sales@sherbornekitchens.com www.sherbornekitchens.com THE VISITOR September 2015 39

Repairs & Restoration ...

Computers

Mobile Phones

AJS Computing

MOBILE PHONE SPECIALISTS

GILLINGHAM’S COMPUTER SHOP

Excellent professional and friendly service & support Over 30 years of experience in information and technology Sales, Repairs & Services

WE STOCK Hardware: PCs, Laptops, Macbooks, iPods™, Parts, Cables and Accessories.

Software: Microsoft R Products, Quickbooks R, etc.

Consumables: Ink, Toner, Paper, etc.

WE PROVIDE PCs and Laptops, Repairs and Upgrades, ® Windows Installation and Troubleshooting, Backup Solutions, Virus Disinfection, Software Installation, Expert Tests and Diagnostics etc.

18 Broad Robin • GILLINGHAM • SP8 4PJ

01747 821063 • sales@ajscomputing.co.uk • www.ajscomputing.co.uk

Jewellery

WARD & SIBLEY The Jewellers of Yeovil

Our repair section of the business is pleased to offer

SEPTEMBER 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  Jewellery re-modelled

 Seal, hand, and machine engraving

 Valuations for insurance and probate  Pearl and bead re-threading

THE CASKET, 103 MIDDLE STREET, YEOVIL Tel: 01935 474065 Car Park at Rear for customers while visiting the shop

40 THE VISITOR September 2015

 Unlocking Service  iPad Sales

 Unlocked Handsets  3G Tablets

 Phone, Tablet & Laptop Repair  Full Range of Accessories  Data Recovery

 E-Cigarettes and E-Liquids 

Pay monthly, pay as you go & Sim only

5 The Bayliss Centre, Street • 01458 841741 website: www.streetcellular.com email: sales@streetcellular.com

Audio & Television

Don’t despair we repair ...

TVs - Radios - Recorders Hi-fi - CD Players etc.

We can REPAIR most makes and models in our ON-THE-PREMISES WORKSHOP And if it can’t be repaired ...

Don’t be blue we also sell new!

Our fully stocked showroom offers the Very Latest 5 YEAR WARRANTY TVs & Audio ON MANY ITEMS from Panasonic

SAVE £250* on Selected TVs *Cashback Promotion

Greenhill, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 4EW  01935 813451

“Where the customer comes first”

... cut out and keep

HAM HILL COUNTRY

HAM HILL COUNTRY is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Ham Hill stands 426 feet above sea level and nowadays is a country park extending to around 400 acres.

With many picturesque villages to explore around the hill it is the perfect place for a leisurely walk.

There are flower-bedecked cottages in abundance to admire, many built of the local Ham Stone and there are lots of attractive pubs where you can quench your thirst or enjoy a tasty meal.

The Muddled Man

The Muddled Man at West Chinnock is a traditional, family

run country pub.

A free house they offer three traditional West Country ales including Teignworthy and Yeovil Ales which change regularly.

Draught ciders include Burrow Hill and Thatchers Gold.

They offer traditional pub food which includes delicious steaks, homemade curries and fresh fish on a Friday from West Bay. Traditional Sunday roasts with a choice of meats are popular and booking is advised.

The local cricket team and football team meet after matches at the inn and regularly hold fund raising nights.

There are two ensuite letting

In addition to fuel and car sales Montacute Service Station offers a well-stocked shop selling everything from newspapers and sweets through to fresh flowers and bread.

MONTACUTE SERVICE STATION

(P. L. Warry & Sons) Montacute. Tel (01935) 822271

MURCO Fuels Quality Used Car Sales

7

O P DA EN YS

General Store & Shop: groceries, newspapers, flowers, bread, sweets, drinks, etc.

OPEN Mon - Fri 6 -7.30, Sat 6 - 6.30, Sun 9 - 5

The

Lord Nelson Rectory Lane

Norton Sub Hamdon

Mark, Helen and staff welcome you to ‘The Nelson’

GOOD FOOD – GOOD BEER – GREAT ATMOSPHERE Join us for your ...

RUGBY WORLD CUP VIEWING

H Sunday 6 th September – “US” music duo 3pm H H Sunday 6 September – QUIZ NIGHT returns H th

H Saturday 19th September – “PHOENIX” H

GLUTEN ES H FREE DISBLE AVAILA

Sunday ½ SHOULDER of LAMB for two £17.95

MID-WEEK LUNCHTIME SPECIAL 2 Courses for only £8 Monday – Friday Lunchtime

COURTYARD H BEER GARDEN AT REAR AMPLE PARKING OPEN ALL DAY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Tel: 01935 881473 www.thelordnelson.biz

bedrooms (twins) and a pretty beer garden. Skittles are played regularly and the skittle alley is available for functions, catering up to 100 for a buffet or 70 sit down (menu to suit). Food is served daily and they are open all day Friday and Saturday.

Mick, Jean and Garry look forward to welcoming you.

The Lord Nelson

Helen and Mark have successfully run The Lord Nelson at Norton Sub Hamdon for the past 7 years The Nelson plays a key role in the community with a full programme of events including regular live music and fund raising events such as quizzes and Movie Nites.

They have an excellent reputation for food with an ever changing menu including, gluten free dishes; a two course midweek lunch at £8.50; 2 steaks and a bottle of wine for £30 on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and Tapas. A pizza oven is being installed in the garden so fresh pizza will shortly be available. The skittle alley / function room is ideal for coffee mornings and meetings as well as celebrations. With good

weather the patio areas both front and back are popular. There is always a good pint and an excellent choice of wines. Why not try one of the many seasonal cocktails on offer such as Pimms or an Elderflower Twinkle – elderflower and Prosecco!!

Rob Margetts

Rob Margetts Carpet & Flooring in Stoke Sub Hamdon has been established since 1986. Rob offers a full range of carpets, vinyls, laminates, Karndean flooring and solid wood floors.

Carpets start from just £9.99 per square metre. The best seller by far is the hardwearing 80/20 twist.

A free ‘at home’ library service is available where the customer can choose their carpet in the comfort of their own home from a wide range of samples. This is particularly useful if you are trying to match the carpet with existing colourways.

Rob Margetts Carpet & Flooring undertake both domestic and commercial premises including residential homes.

A family run business, Rob is assisted by his nephew Dave. For a friendly and efficient service give them a call.

ROB MARGETTS Carpet & Flooring Ltd

For All Your Flooring Requirements ...

Carpets – Vinyls – Wood – Laminate Prompt and Friendly Service

2 High Street, Stoke-Sub-Hamdon, TA14 6PP

Tel: 01935 825505 • Mob: 07970 821097 sales@rmcarpets.co.uk • www.rmcarpets.co.uk

The MUDDLED

MAN

Your hosts, Mick, Jean and Garry welcome you to

Lower Street, West Chinnock www.themuddledman.co.uk

A charming country inn serving home cooked fayre lunchtime & evening

HOMEMADE CURRY MENU AVAILABLE Sunday Lunch £7.95 – Choice of Roast

Fresh Fish Day Friday with Homemade Beer Batter

Steak Special – Two 8oz Rump Steaks £16.50 Sunday to Thursday

GOOD BEER GUIDE

★ ATTRACTIVE BEER GARDENS ★

Daily Specials • Real Ale • Skittle Alley • Accommodation

Tel: 01935 881235

THE VISITOR September 2015 41

HAM HILL

The Prince of Wales

The Prince of Wales is situated at the top of Ham Hill with stunning views.

The Inn is open all day every day and is extremely popular with walkers and dog owners. It is a dog friendly pub. As a freehouse they offer a good choice of cask ales and local ciders to accompany their tasty menu. In addition to breakfasts the main menu is served from 12 noon every day with daily specials on offer. They offer good, tasty, home-cooked food and a good range of ice-creams and sorbets.

They are now licenced to hold marriage ceremonies and civil partnerships. The attractive hamstone chapel with its vaulted ceiling can hold up to 40 guests and for those who prefer the outdoors – Amy’s Garden is also available for ceremonies.

Wedding Menus are bespoke, tailored to suit customers’ personal requirements.

Fleur de Lis

Helen and her team welcome you to the beautiful historical Fleur de Lis Inn. Open all day every day from 12

Fleur de Lis

OPEN ALL DAY – EVERY DAY

Food Available Lunchtimes & Evenings Sunday Roast • 1 Course £7.95 • 2 Courses £9.95 Served 12noon – 6pm • Takeaway Available Quiz alternate Sundays H Live Music every Friday Function Room ... for private parties

Bed & Breakfast

West Street, Stoke Sub Hamdon  01935 822510

Prince of Wales

OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY

8.30am – 11.00pm

Food Served: 12.00noon – 9.00pm Monday – Thursday 12.00noon – 10.00pm Friday & Saturday • 12.00noon – 8.00pm Sunday

SEPTEMBER

Sunday 6th: POWERCUT 3.00pm – 6.00pm Sunday 20th: FUN QUIZ 8.00pm MINI BREAKFAST Monday – Friday 9.00am – 11.00am FULL BREAKFAST Saturday and Sunday 9.30am – 11.00am  Licensed for Weddings & Civil Ceremonies 

Ham Hill, STOKE SUB HAMDON,TA14 6RW Tel: 01935 822848 • www.princeofwaleshamhill.co.uk

- delicious food is served both lunchtimes (12-2) and evenings (6-9). Sunday Roasts are very popular and are served from noon until 6pm (bookings are advisable) at reasonable prices. A takeaway service is offered during food serving times (inc. Sunday roasts) and the Saturday Morning Breakfast Club is a great social event from 9 until 11.

Live music is held every Friday from 9.30pm, with an open mic’ night 2nd Thursday of each month from 8.30pm. A Quiz night is held on alternate Sundays at 8pm.

With the autumn approaching new teams are welcome for Skittles, Pool and Darts.

If you are planning a celebration why not book their function room – a menu can be tailored to suit and of course there is excellent accommodation for those wanting to stay overnight

Norton Community Shop

Norton Community Shop is run

by Norton sub Hamdon Community Land Trust – established in 2012 to enable the provision of ten affordable homes specifically for local people. The CLT, which is run by a group of dedicated volunteers, can consider other projects and we are currently working towards keeping our Post Office open. We are also considering a renewable energy scheme.

The Shop employs a manager but is otherwise entirely run by volunteers – a team of over 40 enthusiastic, friendly people. We are not only a convenience store but also an essential community hub for several villages, providing many local services and a great place to meet friends and catch up with what is happening in the area.

RUN BY THE COMMUNITY FOR THE COMMUNITY

COME AND VISIT US YOU WILL BE WELCOME

LOCAL AND ORGANIC PRODUCE  Fresh Fruit and Vegetables  Milk and Dairy, Bacon and Cheeses  Bread – daily from Bakery Roy-Al  Groceries, Greetings Cards  Frozen and Chilled Produce  Confectionery and Alcohol

DELIVERY SERVICE YOU CAN VOLUNTEER JOIN OUR FRIENDLY HAPPY TEAM ... pick up a form from the shop

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY from 8am to 6pm A NORTON SUB HAMDON COMMUNITY LAND TRUST PROJECT

42 THE VISITOR September 2015

The

Pub Pages

B EER & S KI TTL ES P. A. BAXTER

HOW MANY of you out there in Visitorland are regular club-goers I wonder? Well according to recent news items, it would seem the answer could be 'a declining number', for it appears that the number of clubs - and we're talking night clubs here - is decreasing and continues to do so. Twenty years or so ago there were over 3,000 clubs for one to choose from, yet now the number has dropped to 1,700. All this points to social change, and however that may have come about is always a matter for conjecture and often, serious loud and polarized discussion! As we have oft pointed out in this column, so many areas of society wax and wane as time goes by. Recently, we mentioned how the interest in snooker has declined to a point where a club purporting to major in the game now has multiple pool tables, three skittle alleys and just one snooker table. So is this something to be worried about, be it your favourite pastime or otherwise? Personally, I get a little concerned when I hear of yet another pub closing, or equally, a pub chain that has sacrificed its skittle alley for a restaurant area. In this way I believe that being willing to lose locals is a downhill trip to no pub at all. I don't think we need to enlarge on the subject of 24-hour drinking other than to point out that really, 24-hour drinking never really happened! The decline in pubs as my generation knows them does continue, but nevertheless, some large chains do continue to open outlets, although their concept is a different one.

Marstons and Wetherspoons are two that spring to mind. Only recently did we visit an almost new pub under the Marstons name (complete with its 'two-for-one' meal offer) as well as another beautifully restored pub, also under their name. I learn that

whilst Wetherspoons are, somewhat surprisingly, selling twenty of their pubs nationally, they intend opening thirty more in this financial year. Now with over one thousand outlets, the target set by founder and M.D. Tim Martin of 1,500 pubs is beginning to edge a little closer.

Do they have 'locals' using their pubs though? Well, from my fairly

limited experience of a small number of their pubs, the answer would appear to be yes, although I cannot seem to find any games to play at their pubs more exciting than a fruit machine, or spend time watching a massive television set to a news channel, on mute, with sub-titles. Not my kind of thing. However, perhaps you know better - are there any 'Spoons pubs

Vinny ventures into Martock

that actually support and encourage locals to take part in organised pub games? I would be delighted to relay details to my vast readership! Please feel free to drop me a line at: skittlealley @hotmail.com Regarding social trends, it now appears that beer has become not only acceptable in polite society

but (and I do lament this a little) almost 'trendy'. Indeed, I saw a Tshirt that bore the legend 'I drank real ale before it was popular'! It is not only real ale of course but 'craft beer' as well - however one would like to define it. It doesn't need any detective work to find decent beer from a decent brewery anymore and if the trend of the

People travel miles for our delicious HOMEMADE PIES

Just one of many mouthwatering dishes on our menu!

2 Course LUNCHES £8.95 Tuesday to Saturday Wednesday & Thursday Special

SURF, TURF, SWINE and WINE NIGHT 2 Rump STEAKS or 2 Beer Battered HADDOCK or 2 Gammon STEAKS or ANY 2 with a ...

CARAFE of WINE £22.50 per couple • BOOKING ADVISED

★ SUNDAY ROASTS ★

ROYAL OAK Chris & Jill look forward to welcoming you at the ...

Over Stratton, South Petherton Tel: 01460 240906

Montague Inn

Sean & Suzy welcome you to the ...

Shepton Montague nr. Bruton Tel: 01749 813213

A Charming Country Inn

The

Wyndham Arms

KINGSBURY EPISCOPI nr. MARTOCK SOMERSET TA12 6AT

A delightful recently refurbished country pub OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY

Pop-up Festival Saturday 19 th September 5pm – Midnight

Steak Night Every Monday Ribeye, Pork Loin or Salmon with Salad & Fries for only £10 per head

Simple Supper Every Tuesday Delicious 2 Course Set Menu ... for only £10 per head

Thursday Tear & Share Night Pizza & stuff to share – groups of 1 to infinity

Delicious HOME-COOKED FOOD served lunchtimes & evenings New SUMMER MENU now available!

Traditional SUNDAY ROAST choice of 2 meats Why not enjoy your meal alfresco ... in our LARGE GARDEN?

H Sunday 30th August H LIVE MUSIC H 4pm ‘til 7pm H Alan Drew – guitar / vocalist H

Rob & Lin Rigby and Marly the Dog look forward to welcoming you

Tel: 01935 823239

Please visit us on our website: www.wyndhamarms.com to see full menu details

THE VISITOR September 2015 43

They Say

That whilst most people have a sore head after celebrating a happy birthday - Lin Penn of Shepton Mallet broke with tradition and had a sore toe and subsequently had a “hoppy” birthday!

That Karen, landlady of the Camelot Inn, South Cadbury, has recently changed her name by deed pole to Cassidy - Hop-a-long, that is.

That whilst visiting the New Forest, John Hamblin of Yeovil was recently “foxed” by the whereabouts of his newly purchased umbrella.

That according to his neighbours, it is an open and shut case that Chiselborough’s Mike Hayter is now the fourth emergency service.

That an independent production company is to launch a new motoring series called “Gear Up”, featuring Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond. Better Be Careful, BBC!

That congratulations go to The Sheppey Inn, Lower Godney and The Queens Arms, Corton Denham featuring in the Daily Mail top 20 pubs to visit in the Secret Britain Sawdays Feature.

That unfortunately for Yeovil Town Football Club, the recent front page of the Western Daily Press declaring them victors over York City after a mid-week match was, alas, wishful thinking.

That a touch of Spain is coming to Sherborne as the former Swan opens as Vida Comida an authentic tapas bar ... si.

That after purchasing a black cast iron cooking pot from a vintage store - with the aim of recreating Rick Stein’s Spanish dishes - the peeling black paint appeared to be an unforeseen ingredient.

That Rob Penn of Shepton Mallet finds that some paintings go to his head.

That whilst wearing her golden shoes, Sally Meecham of Yeovil and Crewkerne, certainly had a day to treasure.

That when Maureen Higgins of Castle Cary recently attended a wedding in Galway, Ireland she was unaware that her splendiferous new hat had nearly become - nesting material.

44 THE VISITOR September 2015

Pete Lambden & Staff welcome you to .....

168 Hendford Hill YEOVIL

“Try to realise it’s all within yourself No one else can make you change”

FIRST PERSON to tell me the above song gets a free drink. Last month Eddie Miller correctly identified that is was “Lay Lady Lay” by Bob Dylan.

Hello everyone, greetings from the top of the hill. Got lots to tell you about this month so let’s crack on!

An old mucker of mine Jim Aston celebrated his 60th birthday in style here at The Quick. A great band some fabulous food and an army of wellwishers made for a great party. Well done Jim! A young couple by the names of Dave and Lynne became Mr. & Mrs. Keirle on the 15th. An absolutely super day. It’s nice when a plan comes together and these two had been planning this one for over a year.

Everyone had a good time and we all wish them well for the future Congratulations .

We had a great party here on the 1st when Matt Brown became engaged to Emma. Hurry up and get married so we can have another party!!

A quick reminder that on the 30th of this month we are having a Family Day in the garden. Hopefully the weather will be kind. We have a bouncy castle some live music and a hog roast /barbeque on the go ... and to top it all off we have live music from STORM in the evening! We are not charging an entry fee but we will be having a collection for St. Margaret’s Hospice.

September sees the Rugby World Cup coming to the UK. We will be showing all the live games and during the matches we will be having special drinks promotions. There are going to be some great matches during the tournament so get yourself along to The Quickie.

On the 25th of the month we have a double whammy for you. Mr. D’Arcy will be performing in the bar, and in the function room we have a Charity Function hosted by Tim Penney in aid of St. Margaret’s Hospice. The function starts at 7pm.

Call Tim on 01935 413082 for tickets and more information.

A little bit of advance notice for you, Barry Paull will be here with his ELVIS Show on the 2nd of October. Tickets are £5 with the proceeds going to The Hospice .

And finally: I went to the video shop the other day and said “Can I have Batman Forever?” and the bloke said “No you got to bring it back tomorrow”  TOOT TOOT!!!

BOOKINGS

 01935 424721

CAMRA Members Investment Club continues in the way it has over the last ten years, then some people could be doing extremely well as the club funds are now standing in excess of £20million.

Amongst the highest holdings are

Wetherspoons and Youngs, the latter having recently reported like-for-like sales increasing by 5.6% in the first three months of its financial year. Furthermore, managed house sales for the first 13 weeks increased 8.3%,

Home-Made Food Served 7 Days a Week Food Now Served All Day Saturday & Sunday

Real Ales - Garden Skittle Alley

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Serving Sensibly Priced Food & Drink

Dinnington, Nr. Hinton St. George • Tel 01460 52397

The CROWN Inn

Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EP EVERY WEDNESDAY MUSIC NIGHT 2nd Sept: Blues Music 9th Sept: Trad Jazz 16th Sept: Folk Music 23rd Sept: Live Music to be confirmed 30th Sept: Open Mic’ Night

SUNDAY LUNCH – £ 8.95 THURSDAY NIGHT STEAK SPECIAL Two Rump Steaks and a Bottle of Wine – £25 Delicious food served daily – lunchtimes and evenings

Tel: 01935 816115

THE CASTLE INN —— Freehouse —— Jo & Staff welcome you to ...

High Street • WEST

COKER • BA22 9AT

SUNDAY CARVERY 12noon – 4pm

2 Courses £12: Choice of TWO Meats, Beef + Another with Fresh Veg’ and Homemade Sweet e.g. Sherry Trifle, Bread & Butter Pud, Chocolate Torte ... (booking advised)

Steak Special Wednesday – Saturday TWO 8oz Sirloin Steaks and a Bottle of Wine ... or TWO Draught Pints £25 NEW Light Bites – Lunchtime Menu Freshly Filled Baguettes, Salads, Jackets, etc.

H Chef’s Daily Specials Board H Senior Citizen Lunch Wednesday – Friday £5.95 Function Room Available F.O.C. Weddings, Christenings etc.

OPEN ALL DAY FROM NOON Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday • Closed Monday & Tuesday

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

BOO KINGS NOW TAKEN

Tel: 01935 862331

www.the-castle-inn-westcoker.co.uk

Patio H Skittles H Ample Parking H Free Pool H Real Ales H Free wifi

The

Pub Pages

accommodation 11.9%, food 7.8%, and drink 4.2%.

So do we now see a reversal in trends for pubs? Who can tell for sure? If this is the start of a trend in the upward direction then I am pleased to hear it, and no-doubt many hard-pushed publicans out there will be feeling the same.

available ... at The Lord Nelson, Norton Sub Hamdon landlady Helen tells us you will soon be able to ‘get your pizza 'ere’ when the pizza oven is finally installed ... flower baskets looking good at The Muddled Man, West Chinnock ... at The Royal Oak, Over Stratton they make proper pies - with a shortcrust top and bottom - and very popular they are too! ... well done to The New Farm Restaurant on their Taste

of the West Gold Award.

Yomping on to Yeovil ... make a diary date for the 9th October, Comedy Night at The Quicksilver Mail ... Christmas Day lunch bookings now being taken at The Castle Inn, West Coker ... in Sherborne the Treacle Eater Clog North East Morris Men and Musicians will perform with the Wyvern Jubilee Morris Men outside The Weavers Club on Monday 7th September at 8pm

Adrian and Kate invite you to

IN HAM HILL Country ... you can enjoy a West Country Deli board at The Prince of Wales Inn, Ham Hill whilst you take in the superb views ... at The Fleur de Lis, Stoke Sub Hamdon Sunday Roasts are served until 6pm - a take-away roast is also

RELAX & ENJOY DELICIOUS HOME COOKED FOOD! Full Menu plus Specials Board

SUNDAY LUNCH £9.95

Visiting? We offer Excellent Accommodation

AROUND THE

H O U S E S

... at The Crown Inn, a Wednesday Lunchtime Roast is excellent value at £3.95 and for those who like Thai cuisine make a date for the 8th September ... and Di tells us there is smart new dining furniture at The Lamb & Lark in Limington.

Coasting on to Corton Denham and The Queen’s Arms where Wednesday the 9th Sept is the return of Movie Night, Far from the Madding Crowd ... at The

Only 2 miles from Castle Cary Station and 2 miles from Bath & West Showground

EXCELLENT ACCOMMODATION

5 ENSUITE LETTING ROOMS Disabled Access - Viewings Welcome

Email: natterjack@btconnect.com Website: www.thenatterjackinn.co.uk

ATTRACTIVE BEER GARDENS WELL KEPT ALES Do call in, a warm welcome awaits

The Natterjack Inn, Nr. Evercreech Junction Evercreech, Somerset, BA4 6NA

THE VISITOR September 2015 45

Mildmay Arms, Queen Camel check out their Monday Night promo - buy one get one free offer ... enjoy a good pint at The Camelot South Cadbury who are in the Good Beer Guide ... and Parmesan Tiger Prawn Fricassee is a tempting starter at The Orchard Inn, Galhampton.

Bustling on to Barton St David where vampires were not welcome at the recent garlic tasting evening held at The Barton Inn ... congrats to Jools and Sally at The Pilgrims, Lovington, achieving two Gold Awards from the Taste of the West ... excellent accommodation at The Natterjack Inn, Evercreech Junction ... and finally, in Street, Richard is still "bowling" them over at The Two Brewers with such gems as they are now printing Euros on Greece-proof paper! Halloween Happenings?

Promote them in next month’s Visitor!

The Glorious Twelfth

Congratulations go to the innovative team at the Queen’s Arms, Corton Denham, the Sawday's Pub Award Winners in the ‘Local, Seasonal and Organic Produce’ Category.

The award was presented by Toby Sawday on Friday 14th August.

Wine & Dine

I’VE ALWAYS BEEN GAME for a bit of game, and aficionados of this wonderful wild source of protein will be aware, that although we are still basking in the summer sun (at the time of writing at least), August heralds the arrival of what is known as ‘The Glorious Twelfth’, the date stipulated in the 1831 Game Act for the start of the annual British game shooting season.

Grouse shooting has long been thought of as a pursuit enjoyed by the money’d classes (costing several thousand pounds per day for each ‘gun’ to participate), and there is always the mad rush to see which top restaurant will bag the honour of getting this heather loving, moorland bird first to the table for those discerning diners with a bob or two to spare in their back pocket. Red grouse has very little fat, so it provides a healthy option. With the added bonus of being bred on the moors, it is free of the wretched chemicals pumped into much of the other meat we consume, but eating it can be an expensive past-time; you need a bird per person, which will set you back around £35 a go in restaurants.

However, the good news for the rest of us is that the ‘better’ supermarkets have seen the light and have at last acknowledged the desire amongst us, with limited budgets, to indulge in a little luxury from time to time, for something in the region of £10

46 THE VISITOR September 2015

each. This of course leaves more money to spend on the wine!

When it comes to matching wine with grouse it very much depends on how old the bird is and how it is cooked and served.

When choosing the perfect wine match and, excuse the pun here, to avoid grouse-ing about it, keep in mind the traditional accompaniments – game chips, bread sauce, and redcurrant jelly.

The short season runs through until mid December, by which time the birds will be that much older and with a stronger, gamey, flavour to the meat. These older birds will prove to be a better match for more full-bodied, complex wines. Most modern chefs have the tendency to cook grouse rare, unless it is well hung, which to my mind it should not be, as then it can then become much more gamey, losing some of its delicate flavour. The preferred method of cooking is to simply roast it.

Personally, and being rather a traditionalist, I am inclined to be just that little bit boring, and stick with France in making my

selections for the perfect match.

If your budget doesn’t run to a decent red Burgundy, and providing good value for money, I’m a particular fan of northern Rhone wines. The main thing is to go light on the tannins to avoid overwhelming the subtle earthy flavour of the meat, and it’s best to steer clear of white wines.

Philippe Jaboulet, Domaine Collange, Crozes-Hermitage, Northern Rhone, 2010, Syrah, 13% £14

Chateau bottled, it is unoaked, elegant and soft, with hints of blackberry, plums, crushed black pepper.

Cave Saint-Desirat cooperative, Saint-Joseph, Northern Rhone, 2011, Syrah, 13% £15

Estate bottled, look for white pepper, spice and liquorice, subtle oak and soft tannins.

Chavy-Chouet, La Taupe, Bourgogne Rouge, old vines, Cote D’Or, Burgundy, 2012, Pinot Noir, 12.5% £15

Single vineyard estate, with silky tannins, giving off wild-cherry and spice with violets.

Domaine du Pimont, SaintAubin, Premier Cru, 2012, Pinot Noir, 13% £20

Think hedgerows and roast chestnuts. Juicy, complex and elegant; a refined, rounded wine.

LV-P.

the end bit...

PAPERCHASE

BROWSING round Bruton at Easter I came across a little magazine that was new to me, and it immediately impressed me.

Called Frome Life, it’s a full-colour 52-page freebie (although the message on the front states ‘£3 where sold’), and it’s unusual in having a page size slightly larger than A5, being perfect bound to give it a spine, and being published bi-monthly. The copy I picked up – issue 28, March /April 2015 – looks and feels classy so I have kept an eye out for subsequent issues, but without success. Frome is a good 10 miles from Bruton so why, I wondered, did the magazine make its fleeting appearance in the Visitorland town. The answer lies in the small print on page 3; ‘Our magazines are created to appeal to an affluent, active audience. The sophisticated editorial demands to be read, and provides a unique sales environment for our advertisers.’

Frome Life appears to live up to these claims, and nowadays Bruton certainly seems to have more than its fair share of affluent, active and sophisticated residents to whom it should appeal. The publisher is the Bath-based MediaClash agency which produces similar magazines for other west towns including Bath, Cirencester, Tetbury, Salisbury and, in Visitorland, Wells. I have yet to see a copy of Wells Life.

The property supplement in the 25th June issue of the Western Gazette contained a full-page feature on a property on the market in Crewkerne. ‘This

Solution to August

Sudoku

luxurious three-bedroom bungalow has recently been extensively rebuilt and renovated,’ it opened, adding that it provides ‘spacious accommodation set on a single storey’ and that ‘the walls have been rebuilt externally using a Flemish bond brick with hamstone coins (sic) and set under a new slate tiled roof’. Sadly the halfpage photo above the text did not live up to the expectations generated by the purple prose. It depicted a modern two-storey semi in what looks like reconstituted stone, with not a quoin in sight.

Clearly an entirely different property.

Thanks to an observant reader of the Central Somerset Gazette I can tell you that this semi is in a quiet residential cul-de-sac in Wells. In the property section of that paper’s 25th June issue the same half-page photo appeared in a feature on ‘this semi-detached house’ in Wheeler Grove. So what became of the Crewkerne bungalow photo, I wonder, and how did it get replaced by the Wells semi. It’s another of life’s mysteries.

A bit like the competition in the 14th August issue of the Western Daily Press. ‘We have two pairs of tickets to “Frankly Sinatra” to give away to two lucky readers, at the Bristol Hippodrome on Sunday September 6’, it announced. ‘To be in with a chance of winning a pair, simply answer the following question...’ And what followed was ‘asasas’ and ‘ASas’ and the instruction to ‘send your answers on a postcard to . . . ’. A column in the next day’s issue admitted that

‘we left out the all-important question. We apologise for this’ and reminded readers that ‘the show will celebrate the music of “ole blue eyes” who was born in New Jersey on December 12, 2015’.

I kid you not, that’s exactly what’s printed in the cutting in front of me. And the question to be answered was ‘In what year was Frank Sinatra born?’ Clearly the newspaper doesn’t know.

According to the Western Daily Press of 12th August a car accident can cause premature ageing. As the cutting below shows, the 21year-old driver was 24 by the time the headline was written.

Chronicler.

Sudoku

September Notice Board HENSTRIDGE

Blackmore Vale U3A, How I Became a Writer by local writer Hilary Townsend, Tuesday 1st September at 2.30pm, Henstridge Village Hall. Members £1.50, visitors £2.50, includes refreshments.

MARTOCK

Vox in Frox, a much-praised auditioned ladies choir from Chew Magna, that won 4 prizes at the 2015 Choir Festival in Bath, will perform 21 well-loved folk, pop, gospel, show and sacred melodies at 7.30pm, 12th September in Martock Church (TA12 6JL).

ANSWERS TO POP MUSIC QUIZ on page 18

1. Rod Stewart 2. Tom Jones

3. 'Cotton-Eyed Joe' 4. 'Pink' 5. 2nd

Rod Stewart 'Dexy's Midnight Runners' 'Abbey Road' 'The Animals' 10. 'Toto' 6.

7.

8.

9.

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.

PHONE a - FIRM

Advertising

Tickets £7 on door, £6 from 01935 822706. Read about them and their distinguished Director and Accompanist on www.martockon line.co.uk/events

NORTH CADBURY

Concert by Antara, Flute and Harp Duo, Thomas Hancox Flute, Rachel Wick Harp, at St. Michael’s Church, North Cadbury on Saturday 26th September at 6.30pm. Tickets £12 (£8 under 18s) 01963 440683 or at the door.

Proceeds to the Friends of St. Michael’s.

ADVERTISE your October Event HERE!

A listing under our Notice Board costs just £5 - send details of What? When? Where? to The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. All entries to be pre-paid, maximum 20 words. Extra words 30p each.

Deadline for October issue, Friday 11th September.

House Clearances Nick’s House Clearances

All Work Undertaken Residential and Commercial Tel: 01935 817032 Mobile: 07871 327564

Friendly • Reliable • Trustworthy www.nickshouseclearances.com

H Reach over 60,000 readers

... ADVERTISE your business HERE

 01963 351256 ... today!

Man with Van

MAN-with-VAN

 Collections and deliveries  Student moves etc.  Household maintenance electrical, plumbing, carpentry  Useful services ... including putting together flat packs, beds, wardrobes etc.

Call

Need a helping hand? Or something moved?

MALCOLM today on 07976 211221 PROMPT & RELIABLE SERVICE

THE VISITOR September 2015 47

PHONE - a - FIRM

Denture Repairs

DENTURE REPAIRS

While You Wait Collection & Delivery Denture Advice Mr. C. Dunn

Registered Dental Technician

01749 812585

www.dunndental.co.uk

The Visitor

CAN BE READ ONLINE:

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

Are you a denture wearer?

Logs

SUMMER LOG PROMOTION BUY NOW – SAVE £££s  Kiln Dried Logs Dumpy Bag was £130 ... NOW £115  Kiln Dried Logs Per Net was £9 ... NOW £8  Seasoned Logs Per Net was £9 ... NOW £8  Kindling Per Net was £3.50 ... NOW £3

De to m nture smi ake y s o le a gain u !

Denture repairs while you wait ...

Terry New Denture Clinic

Kiln Dried Logs H burn more efficiently give more heat H light easily H burn cleanly

01458 210039

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

Home visits a speciality

Services

GOOD POTATOES Takeaway Bags of Coal • Calor Gas Car and Van Rental • Competitive Prices

Anchor Hill Service Station WINCANTON 01963 32609

Domestic Appliances

... with all orders over £50

ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE www.logs4fuel.co.uk

 01458 251476

Fires / Chimneys / Stoves

SANDPITS

HEATING & HOME STORE

Multifuel Stoves ... over 200 on display Chimneys Relined ★ Full Installation Service HETAS • OFTEC • GAS SAFE

✴ Chimney Sweeping Service ✴

Showrooms Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5.30pm and Saturday 8am – 4.30pm

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Washing Machines H Vacuum Cleaners Cookers H Tumble Dryers etc.

Email: enquiries@sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk www.sandpitsheatingcentre.co.uk

High Street, Curry Rivel, Langport  01458 251476

SPARES – REPAIRS – SERVICING

Sparkford 01963 440689 • Yeovil 01935 474284

Pe

— www.deaonline.co.uk —

PREMIER ELECTRICS Est. 34 yrs COVERING THE SOUTH LOCALLY

Kitchen Appliance Sales & Repairs

Ø Repairs to all leading brands of Kitchen appliances Ø 12 months guarantee on all repairs Ø Diagnostic work charged unless work undertaken Ø 24 hour service Ø OAP discounts

07921 074602 • 01749 677440 • Solidfuel3@aol.com

Removals

TELEPHONE: 01935 609300 / 01747 470212 / 01460 220660 / 01458 298212 For your nearest technician

Taylors Domestic

Appliances Ltd. Sales & Repairs for Dishwashers, Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble Driers etc.

Ridge View, Penmore Road Sandford Orcas DT9 4SE

Professional repairs by qualified engineer on most makes of appliances.

01963 220366 Email: info@tda.uk.com

Covering the areas between Wincanton Castle Cary, Sparkford, Sherborne and Yeovil

48 THE VISITOR September 2015

Oven Cleaning Mister Oven Independent Oven Cleaning Specialist Ovens - Hobs - Agas etc

Tel: 01935 475065 Mob: 07752 695264 www.misteroven.co.uk

Clean Ovens Domestic Ltd Independent Oven Cleaners AGAS • RANGES • OVENS HOBS • EXTRACTORS Tel: 0800 7076629 Mobile: 07563 693145

www.cleanovendomestics.co.uk

TV Aerials

DAVE PARMITER AERIALS TV AERIAL SERVICE SATELLITE / VIDEO SYSTEMS CCTV SYSTEMS - PERSONAL SERVICE

Tel: YEOVIL (01935) 422088 or mobile 07850 405433 NO CALL-OUT CHARGE

Framing

SCENES

Artist Materials & Gallery

« Picture framing « Restoration « Large selection of prints & paintings « Greeting Card Blanks High St. Gillingham Tel 01747 824050 www.scenes-online.co.uk

PHONE - a - FIRM

Transport & Storage

The key to all your storage needs!

Fully Insured Storage at Highly Competitive Rates Call us today for a quote!

01963 440045 www.sparkfordstorage.com

• Open 7 Days a Week • 20 Years Established Family Business

• Modern Burglar-Alarmed Warehouses • Professional & Reliable Service • Removals To and From Storage • Self Store with Easy Access • Cubicle and Crate Storage • Friendly, Helpful Staff

PARKS

ROOFING LTD.

SLATING & TILING SPECIALISTS

Specialists in period and listed properties

• • • • •

• • • •

SERVICES

Exterior and interior decorating Gutters cleared and cleaned High level painting and cleaning Conservatories washed down Removal of disused sky dishes and cabling Repointing of stone and brickwork Patios cleaned Many other jobs undertaken No V.A.T. competitive rates for seniors

Contact JAMES CADE on 01963 34272 or 07967 307179

October Deadline Friday 11th September

Leadwork Chimneys Fascias Gutters Flat Roofs

26 Stembridge, nr. Kingsbury, Martock TA12 6BN Telephone: 01460 240229 • Mobile: 07917 411961

Tel: 01747 861479 Mob: 07561 120828 For all your roofing requirements

Flat Roofing • Tiling • Slating GRP Roofing All New Work Fully Guaranteed

For further information & estimates contact Allan Carey

01963 33528 / 07885 723915 Email: allancarey541@hotmail.com

Bourton Roofing Co. Slate  Tiling  Flat Roofing.

UPVC Fascias  Guttering FREE ES T I MAT ES

 01747 840064

... or 07866 296453 Email: info@bourtonroofing.co.uk

Communications

A. Hamilton

Sliding Sash Window Specialist

R ESTORATIONS – R EFURBISHMENTS – R EPLACEMENTS

Complete windows or just repairs.

Rotten wood replaced, new sills, re-puttying, sashes unstuck, broken hardware and sash cords replaced, draught-sealing, rattles eliminated.

Qualified to Advanced City & Guilds Level

Tel: 01935 864522 www.sashwindowtlc.co.uk ae.hamilton@uwclub.net

Decorating

G.O.T. Decorating

Gareth Tanner – City & Guilds Interior & Exterior Decorating Free Estimates H No VAT

01278 323223 07736 644452

hs748@hotmail.co.uk

Plumbing & Heating

High Street, Sparkford, nr. Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7QJ Tel: 01963 440045 / 440526 / 440692

Roofing

Maintenance & Repairs

34 White Road, MERE, Nr. Warminster Wiltshire, BA12 6EX

Email: mead208@btinternet.com

Domestic Cleaning

Amanda Chedzoy Domestic Cleaning Services H Experienced H Trustworthy H Reliable H References Available

Tel: 01935 472669 Mobile: 07990 041322

Fire & Security Alarms

Clock Repairs

CLOCK REPAIRS Antique and Modern Clock Repairs.

Free pick up and delivery 40 years experience

Tel (01935) 477582

WESTLINE COMMUNICATIONS

Business Telecom Specialist For All Your Telecom Needs For free, friendly & professional advice call ...

John Penny on 07976 967349 www.westlinecoms.co.uk

THE VISITOR September 2015 49

Classified Ads



Send Details to: The Visitor, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7BG. 30p per word (£5 minimum) pre-payment essential.

For a Box Number please add £2.

Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque, Postal Order, BACS, Credit / Debit Card.

✽ If you require a receipt a s.a.e. must be enclosed with payment, or your email address.

Prize Crossword No. 347 Set by Frank Butler

SEND COMPLETED ENTRIES TO: The Visitor Crossword, P.O. Box 1, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7BG – to arrive by Friday 11th September.

Correct entries are placed in a hat and the winner is the first name drawn. The prize is a £10 voucher to spend with any one advertiser in this issue of The Visitor.

Please do not forget to state your choice of advertiser and your name and address.

1

2

3

9

4

5

14

15

16

18

.................................................................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................................................................

Tel: ......................................................................... Cheque Enclosed for £ .................... Minimum £5

Passport Photographs

PASSPORTS - passports - passports also studio sittings, weddings and golden weddings. Any time to suit you.

Easy parking opposite The Quarry Inn. Tel: Graham Cox, Photographer, 01458 223769.

Storage

STORAGE for furniture in locked cubicles. Lock-up garages to let. Tel: Sparkford Storage on 01963 440045 or 440526 or 440692.

T.V.

T.V. Sales / Service / Rental, H. R. Hodge, South Petherton. Tel: 01460 240645. www.hrhodge.co.uk

Personal

COUNTRY LINK SOCIAL GROUP, Fresh Air, Fun, Food and Friendship. Tel: Andy 01225 834834 or Val 01749 342918 or visit: www.country-link.org.uk

GENT 67, enjoys travel, theatre, National Trust, seaside, music, dancing. Seeks lady, non-smoker, easy going. Tel: 01458 440094.

Dog Holidays

HOLIDAY FOR YOUR DOG. Let your dog stay with us when you are away. 24-hour attention and long walks. Fully licensed and insured. Vet approved. References available. Tel: 01963 240650.

50 THE VISITOR September 2015

Wanted

DAVE BUYS ALL TYPES OF TOOLS, salvage, bygones and collectables.

Daves Tools - Tel: 01935 428975

POSTCARDS, pop memorabilia, coins, badges, old toys, games, and anything military. Tel: Clive 01749 675456.

ALL SPORTS PROGRAMMES and books, memorabilia and ephemera – especially football. Large collections welcome. Cash paid. Tel: Clive 01749 675456.

R E D U N D A N T M O T O R M O W E R S , rotavators, chainsaws, strimmers, cement mixers, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.

GUNS WANTED for cash. Any size, any condition, make or model. By registered firearms dealer. Tel: 07970 742471.

Mobile Bars / Catering

HARRY’S MOBILE BARS, all occasions, weddings, parties, etc. Tel: 01747 825553 harry@bars4u.plus.com www.harrysmobilebars.co.uk

Services

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN RUBBISH CLEARED, old sheds / oubuildings demolished, etc. Tel: 01460 77844.

The Visitor CAN BE READ ONLINE:

www.thevisitormagazine.co.uk

8

12

13

ADDRESS ..............................................................................................................................................................

7

10

11

NAME .....................................................................................................................................................................

6

17

19

21

22

23

20

24

25

26

27

28

Across:

1, 5. Waterloo perhaps, as liar returns with overheard weigh and reflected noise (not eastern) hiding tat. [7,7] 9. Joint post office in the zoo. [5] 10. Frames of stone elks twisted. [9] 11. Put work into sulphur or helium, say, and get flight of lovers. [9] 12. Place where I daub mixture. [5] 13. Become unwell aboard screw steamship: Are these needed? [5] 15. In two minds with 501 before the Wagner cycle. [9] 18. Eyes left! First revise and shuffle for swimming event. [9] 19. Some often choose fish. [5] 21. Tender runes wrongly transcribed. [5] 23. Girly range (not I) changes to highland cap. [9] 25. American mammal, crazy and sick, covered in bits of oar. [9] 26. Stop Joseph playing this! [5] 27. Any gold alloy may be 25 hours.

[4,3] 28. Always short estimate of high peak. [7]

8.

14.

16.

17.

18.

20.

22.

23.

24.

Getting ready for the family with north-eastern insect wound. [9] Hung up and sued about spend.

[9] As a result, the umpire swore to omit the south-west. [9] Adjusted cargo, nine uninformed. [9] Go wrong about six-footer with pigeon. [7] Up in the barn, fly around with oath. [7] Short time back, ran about with old Italian. [5] Guess our lovely little yellow initials: Crikey! [5] First go can find the end of a roof. [5]

Solution to Crossword 346

Down: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Perhaps cobbler does this with wrigglers after her return. [7] Young scoundrel rose about six: Make it do! [9] We take in short holiday - that’s the lot. [5] Stye ready to be disturbed 24 hours ago. [9] These screwed up on the bed. [5] End of prayer about repair before little time for a change. [9] Encircle rarely on rib mix. [5]

THE WINNER of our August Crossword was Mrs. Z. Turner of Castle Cary, who chose to spend the £10 voucher with South West Coaches, Wincanton.