Pulman’s View from www.viewnews.co.uk SOUTH SOMERSET for Crewkerne, Chard, Ilminster and Yeovil Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 Pick up your free copy Quality of patients’ YEOVIL NEWS THIS WEEK THE staff choir certainly had the X factor at the Preston School Winter Concert in Yeovil. The concert showcased a fine array of talent from solo singers to choirs, rock music to seasonal favourites, and individual care set to worsen, instrumentalists to the full school orchestra. See page 6 CHARD NEWS THIS WEEK YEAR 9 children from Holyrood Academy in warns union Chard were given an insight into the world of forensic investigations. The budding scientists were introduced –by a team from Bournemouth University –to A-level and university activities including blood-splatter evidence, DNA extraction, Peter Hodges Helen Eccles, from Unison, said side the nationally agreed terms A spokesperson said moving footprint analysis and chemical-separation Reporter | [email protected] the hospital refused to consult and conditions and we believe it staff to the new company will techniques. with unions and that her organi- could have a detrimental effect on allow it to save money as well as See page 7 YEOVIL District Hospital bosses sation was unable to speak dur- patient care.” set new terms to attract better have confirmed that hundreds of ing Wednesday’s meeting. The hospital said a month-long skills and the company will also, ILMINSTER NEWS THIS WEEK non-medical staff will be trans- Ms Eccles said: “It breaks up staff consultation received just in time, be able to serve clients ferred to a private company. the NHS team and puts staff out- two pieces of feedback. other than the hospital. MORE than 2,000 tonnes of potatoes were From February 1, 360 support packed at and distributed from Branston staff will be employed by a new Ltd’s factory at Seavington St Michael near firm called Simply Serve. nPANTO fans have been roaring with laughter at Yeovil’s The subsidiary company, set Octagon Theatre which is staging Cinderella until Sunday. Ilminster in the week leading up to up in July, is wholly owned by Pictured are Thomas Ford as Dandini, centre, with Ian Smith as Christmas Day. That marked an increase of the hospital. Eugenie, left, and Matt Daines as Beatrice. See pages 4 and 5 for 73 per cent on the average week at the site. Hospital bosses said the move Pulman’s View correspondent Steve Sowden’s review of the show See page 8 will protect jobs and safeguard Picture courtesy of the OCTAGON THEATRE services. But Unison –the public CREWKERNE NEWS THIS WEEK service union –said the change could have a detrimental effect on FLATS above a shop in Church Street were care. devastated by fire during the early hours of The decision, which affects December 28th. Eight fire engines from roles such as cleaners and around the county were sent to the blaze, porters, was taken at a meeting of with the road remaining closed throughout hospital bosses before Christmas. the following morning. No one was hurt in The hospital previously said the decision would not be made the blaze. public before December 27 to See page 3 allow time to inform staff. In a letter to unions, the hospi- tal’s human-resources director Mark Appleby said the new com- pany would mirror NHS terms and conditions, including pay set- tlements, for a minimum of five years. Free initial •• BBuuysiinnges &s SIsessllulinegs Property Simply Serve staff who subse- consultation • Agricultural Issues quently secure employment with • Wills Yeovil District Hospital will have • Powers of Atttorney • Trusts & Estaates their employment recognised as • Matrimonial and Family continuous service. LPraawcti cSeo Mcaineatgye mAecnctr Setadnidtaerdd • Resolving Disputes A petition urging the hospital • Negligence CClaims • Employmentt to defer the decision was signed • Debt Recoveery by more than 900 people. Unison said a staff petition Axminster Chard Lyme Regis gathered 772 signatures. 01297 32345 01460 63336 01297 443777 www.scottrowe.co.uuk 70 JANUARY UP TO % SIMPLY NA£TU5RA9LS S A L E MRRP p/sqm FACTORY SECONDS OFF £SA2LE2 PRICE Musbury Road, Axminster, Devon EX13 8TJ starts Saturday 6th p/sqm SELECTED CARPETS Tel: 01297 33993 axminstershop.co.uk Sale ends: Sat 20th January 2018 YOUR TOWN, YOUR NEWS...YOUR VIEW - across South Somerset 2 Tuesday, Janu ary 2 nd 2018 www.viewnews.co.uk Council l eader’s N ew Y ear mes sage LEADER of East Devon District Council, Cllr “Like all other councils up and down the “Despite these increasing financial pres- online services. Further investment in digital Paul Divi an i, ha s set ou t the cou ncil’s a mbi- country , E ast D evon Distr ict Coun cil is f eeling su res, E DD C is pro ud not to ha ve cut front line services w ill m ean more e fficien t integration tions fo r 2018 in his New Ye ar messa ge to resi- the e ffe cts of th e an nual reductions in the Gov- services . of onlin e service s acr oss all our IT systems cre- dent s. er nment ’s Reven u e Suppor t Grant (RSG). “We are d eter mined to a vo id t he dow nward atin g a b etter c ustomer e xperi ence a s w ell as Cllr Diviani writes: “I thought that it would “The four-y ear finan cial settlemen t arrange- spiral of cuts , cu ts and more c uts! Lik e other improve d efficiency. be appropr iate for me t o use this opportuni ty, ments mean that ED DC will r ece ive £0.127m in counci ls, w e ha ve had t o rec ognis e th at to keep lSyst ems Thi nk ing – en surin g tha t o ur ser- not o nly to w ish you a ve ry happy New Y ea r RSG for 2018/19 – a 76 per ce nt reduc tion on core ser vic e d elivery intact, we are increas- vices ar e designed around ‘what matters’ to but, i mpor tantly, to take th is opport unit y to set 201 7/18 . in gly reliant on inc ome gen erated from busi- our customers and communities; cutting out Eouats t s oDme ve o dne tDaiisl t arbic otu Ct ot hu en cfii nl aon vce ir a tlh c eo nn teex xt t f fe owr ot“hFeu rt buur deg egtraarn y t p rr eesds uucrt eiso n ms e ac no m thbait n tehde cwouitnh- nfre“o sTmsh riinsa ctm eosme , a enn tesh w da te h vw oeeml ogepe sin nbe g or anatu e m s o o aurnre sd ei nlcvrneiost vi. c aatlilvye, whbaaassse t s ew efeuhnli laoenu bdr e cbcooes mntel iyfni tpgs r oosnce eer svosi fec seo. u rTre hdfiluas c ga esp hipti srp o csaoecsrht- years ; the c ha llen ges we a re facing and the in- cil’s Me diu m Ter m Financi al Plan (M TFP) is and comme rcial min d-set i n o ur decision mak- vices and t he fourth highest performing in the ntahnoadvt a ‘ bwteae l aa c pnopcnerto it nahcueh eb e otsoo kwpsre ’o gav oriiden egt a qfko uria nwlgiat yrt do s. eern vsiucrees tciniua r2lrl0ye1 n8tot/l 1 y£9 5p,. r4r iems di ibncygti 2tno0g 2 £ a73 /bm2u8 db.gy e 2t0 d 2e0 f/i2c1it a onf d £ 0p.7o3te5mn- liinv“ gOe r p uy ar r a jt noicduu rtln ha eery lmy h awan hsa eag rleerm eiate dnry et loba fte eog suu trn o .a ssGes u revitdsi.ce ed dbey- lwcoeFu onact rure ys . omn a Ix n icmo mi sein Gge nthe rea tuios ne – o efn souurri n ags tshe atst the principles and key themes in our Transfor- through commercial thinking. With a greater INSIDE tme ramtio vni Sew t r aotfe goyu 2r0 f1i8n-2a0n2c8e , sw a en adr et htaek einc og nao lmonigc ftoocwuasr do sn g ceonmemra et rinciga liinsc aotim one , twhreo aurgeh w ao grkr eineng this week’s paper context i n whi ch we ar e operati ng. was te serv ice; taking a m ore c omm ercial view “Our a im is to de velop grea ter fina nc ial re- of n ew lease /re ntal arra nge ments, d el iverin g silien ce so that w e can safe gua rd co uncil ser- a gr eater pro visi on of bus iness units across th e vices both now and in the future. district; business development activities and a NE W Y EAR ap“ pTrhoea cT hr:an sform a tion St r ategy se ts ou t our afunndd paamriesnht aclo urenvciielsw. of our assets with town lWork Smart – r edu cin g our offi ce acco mmo- lActive Pursuit of Alternative Service Deliv- BAUBLES dation foo tprint a nd w orking more e fficiently. ery M ethods and Mo dels – We already make This m ea ns m ore m obil e and f lexible working significant savings through sharing corporate SSOYYHWOOEUiAURsRTIhn NILN0iOeGnTGCw 1Ug AOSB HLIa4o LAF I uONSH 0 RErDREaOD 4 EcTpA PIuHRN DpEE8sN Hy DtBDo3O NIENEEmNSNS1eTIETTe w LP7 ODFr R N IsYR7ISC EToeUE5DRalSId DB rO UEIaNETnSOELdRL S Pag e 1 0 sapfrunloapdmcp eH o K aor tntn e toihdtwo ebln rey i,i gstS hh isdet e mttr iti moogu hest.ath Tvt e teh oc et hEh rnex eo mlcoloooc ugauny tti h cioin nTl £ otoh6wf me En r D oHivgDaheClrtl sWiasec errfv oohiscacsuve tssehe ased lu sdcooihn ss t eardtis ecu ltIpi Tva a,se arhwiuoneduglisl t i ahnasogn u hdcsao ipvmnrignpo agcpun hryroue vwgmiehse iipnocotnh.- the next 20 years. tential to generate significant income. We also Family pl0yh7mo9el/@2tyLLPlob1ymlam HYYsy5eymh5epOboM6beha7Toaboy2yapttOp3o yEhghpgGoiohfrt atRotoB [email protected] .acvoamilable HHaaSSPPEEttttaxoppitGnneppeetniwnnsyyeiogor r an&Nkkls &&DM, P eeBBalcasrwoiisoctrnkkea rwYYrtyiinno,eegrgkka,,,r NEW Y EAR, cltrr aeOnapssiean ncgt f noo nur mlBinbuee s;ri niomef s po s ru o– rv rri een ssgip d ooenundrt is en wfgfih ctooi e w tnhicseyh i atnos- mw“aeOnnutt ritn oa smeexbrpvi ltioic orene d igesrl iet voae t bre eyr . acno moum t sut nani tdyi nin g v coo luvne-- VFIREOMW AL LN OFE UWS ATTS NEW YOU wveesltlm aesn tt h ien c au dsitgo imtae lr p e laxtpf o errmie.n Pcer o tghrre osus gsho fianr- ccirle, awteh gicrhea wt vo raklu se t oseg revt hiceers w ani tdh alnoc oau l tpsetaonpd lei ntog HHWishaingpT OaOp lRAl DoMyV0uAETT1rR 2 TcT 9NNOIuS7NEs 4 t0Co41Ame26LL91e 6ww7Lr0I Ls6L 11I&E6Y O3rNeaedearsr a DEwSIHGwNa p• wWpyE. eeBBNN •tee McwwEhD YYIdAee •aa. cMrr AoffrR.oKumETkING Pag es 12-15 means that oGurE cTus ItoNm TerOs cUanC nHow access 200 cEaaonnamddst mf eoD nru e vnfv uiiorttnoyu,n,r b mee oc getoehn nn tone mforo awyr - JOBS–Page 16 | VIEW 2–Pages 17-19 MPHaInLaIgPi nEgV ADNirSe c t o r 0011229977 444466115555 ti“oEnsv. er ythin g w e d o EDeputy Editor is aim ed at makin g SERV ICES– P ages 21-26 JAM ES COLE S 0011229977 444466116587 Eas t Devon a plac e D where peo ple w ant to MOTORS –Pages 27-30 | SPORT–Pages 31-32 SHpOoWrtAs R EDd iLtoArR C O M B E 0011229977 444466116582 alisv ea a ntodp w doerks t, iansa w tioe lnl S Chief Rep orter 01297 446152 for vi sitors to com e n CLLR P au l D ivani, CANDE RS LARSSON 01297 446142 and e njoy.” EDDC Lea de r Reporter s 01297 446142 Pulman’s View Series of Newspapers RFRANCESCA EVANS 01297 446154 Fla ts d ev ast at ed PETER HODG ES 0011229977 444466116542 P 01297 446162 view Pulman’s View Series of Newspapers, incorporating Pulman’s Weekly News, is PRPOroBd LuActRiConO MMBaEna g e r 01297 446140 in C rew kerne fire published at Unit 3, St Michael’s Business Centre, Church Street, Lyme regis, 01297 446140 Dorset DT7 3DB | Telephone: 01297 446157 || Eemmaaiill:: eeddiitt@@vviieewwnneewwss..ccoo..uukk Group Sales Manager Fir eand rescue crews worked t hro ugh the n ight to from WWebsite: www.viewnews.co.uk || TThhiiss nneewwssppaappeerr iiss ccoommmmiitttteedd ttoo pprroovviiddiinngg GNATAL IE ED MEADES 0011229977 444466114455 thaocukr lse oaf s Deericoeums bblearz 2e8 inth C.rewker ne during the e arly fPfaadhirdi,l irpaec secsvueardan tsse a aattins fdtah cbet aoalarbinloycv,e eyd o ajuod udcrrnaenasl sisc. moifn. tyiafo cyuto ufteh heela viyneod uaer pc ceoonmmdpeplnaliatn intP,t r pehlseasas s Sent aocnto dnbateraedcnst AMAMLIdALvTLeITrE tT iFsIIiPLnPTgIN NEEGxSe Sc u t i v e s 00001111222299997777 444444446666111166660033 OFTriihgreein ba rrol o aH kdee a owl tuhats Ci nce lfnoirts sreet dfiln o to Chr rh ofulua rtcgshh, olSoutc rtea tteeht d.e a fbool lovew tinhge newspapers Organisation (iPSO) at Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London eC4M 7LG mornin g’s rush ho ur wh ile fire an d r esc ue serv ices Tel: 0300 123 22 20 DDistribution co ntrolled th e sit uation. ALISON KING 0011229977 444466005577 De von and S omerset F ire and res cue received nu- AAccounts merous c alls from co nc erned mem b ers of th e p ub- ANITA ROUTLEY 0011229977 444466114499 lic repor ting a fire. A total of eight fire engines from around Somerset were called to the incident after the first floor went up in flames. EAST DEVON BRANCH Fir e contro l se nt crews fro m Crew kerne , Yeovil, Martoc k and Beaminster, as well as a command sup- port unity from Street. wwww.eastdevoncats.com Assistance was also requested from ambulance, police and Western Power. ALL OUR CCAATTSS ANNDD KKIITTTEEENNNSS ARRE FFLLEEAAD, WWOORMMEEEDD, VVAACCINNNAATTEEEDD, MMIICROCHHIIIPPPPPEEDD ANNDD IIFF OLD On arrival, the officer in charge confirmed the first EENNOUGHH,, NNEEUTTEEERREEDD. WWEE ALSSO HHEEELLP WWIITTHH NNEEUTTEEERRIINNG COSTTSS FFOOR TTHHHEE KKIITTTEEENNNSS WWEE HOMMEEE.. floor of the building to be well alight and all persons were accounted for. The fire w as ext ingu ished wit h o ne crew remain ing on the scene t o damp en down any ho t spots. BBELLA (pictured) is a beautiful 3 year old long haired girl em ergen cy servic es confir med no one was hurt. wwho is staying at our foster home in Poltimore. 01392 461279 GGEORGE is Bella’s 14 week old son. He is also black and long haired and is staying in Poltimore. B e a u (cid:19) f u l E lectra needds a quiet 01392 461279 home together with hher mum Honiton Cattss PPrrootteeccttion FFoor NNeeutteerriiinng Advviiicce and hellpp wwiitthh NNeeutteerriiinnngg Costtss ffoor tthhose elliiigggiiibbllee CCaallll 018888844 277799922299 01404 45241 IIFF YYOOUU HHAAVVEE LLOOSSST OR FOUND A CAATT PLEASE CALL - 01884 277929 www.honittoon.caattss.orrgg.uk 3 www.viewnews.co.uk Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 3 Views wanted nDAWN BREAKS OVER THE AXE VALLEY by Richard Austin on Villages Plan EASTDevon District Council is asking the pub- lic for its views on proposed changes to its Vil- lages Plan by Friday, February 2nd. The Villages Plan covers some of the larger villages in East Devon and the town of Colyton and shows the areas where new housing will be acceptable in principle (known as Built-up Area Boundaries). The plan also shows the extent of authorised uses at the Greendale and Hill Barton business parks. The changes, known as ‘main modifications’ include specific policies for Hill Barton and Greendale Business Parks and a general policy for the Built-up Area Boundaries. The consultation follows hearings during No- vember where an independent inspector exam- ined the plan and heard evidence from council officers and interested parties. The inspector has asked East Devon to consult on the proposed changes and all comments from the public, received by February 2nd, will be sent to the inspector for consideration before she finalises her report which is expected to be published in the spring. The modifications include additional policies that clearly link the maps shown in the Villages Plan back to the policies of the East Devon Local Plan, which was adopted in January 2015.   This includes specific policies for Hill Barton N and Greendale Business Parks. These policies generally resist development in the ‘country- side’, except in specific circumstances as set out in the Local Plan. Other modifications include additional word- ing to the ‘vitality’ policies proposed for the   town/village centres at Colyton and Beer, a N monitoring table and amendments to the text for Kilmington and Musbury to help protect the nANOTHER stunning image by award winning local photographer Richard Austin. To order a copy, call 01297 442704. historic environment. The consultation signals one of the final Fa st e r b r o a d b and o n th e w ay stages in preparing the Villages Plan, which will help guide decisions on where new devel- opment should take place in 15 selected larger   villages, as well as the town of Colyton. The Proposed Submission Villages Plan and A MAJOR expansion UK (BDUK) agency building a new full build the infrastruc- “The CDS pro- start up and existing all of the supporting documents can be viewed of broadband rollout has given the go- fibre broadband net- ture needed, such as gramme has been de- ones to be more pro- at http://eastdevon.gov.uk/planning/planning- across Devon and ahead for Connecting work on behalf of CDS fibre or wireless con- livering the cabinets ductive by providing policy/villages-plan/villages-plan-2017/   Somerset has re- Devon and Somerset for more than 41,000 nections. and masts that al- ultrafast broadband villages-plan-examination/ ceived Government (CDS) to increase ac- homes and businesses CDS is only able to ready provide super- where the commercial The documents are also available to view at   It is dangerous. A distrac- approval to provide cess to its planned ul- initially. This work is invest where suppli- fast access for more market wouldn’t East Devon District Council’s offices in Ex- t thousands more trafast broadband due to be completed ers have no declared than 250,000 homes reach.” mouth Town Hall and Knowle at Sidmouth. homes and businesses with Gigaclear to by December 2019. and credible plans to and businesses. in the area with ac- more than 3,000 The announcement invest their own re- “We are now start-   Don’t risk it.” cess to a superfast homes and businesses paves the way to ex- sources to extend ing the roll-out of the connection. in hard to reach areas tend the network their networks. next phases which ANTIQUES T The Government’s of Devon. even further by De- CDS is backed with will reach even more VALUATION DAYSS Broadband Delivery Gigaclear is already cember 2020. funding from the De- rural areas and, to- Information about partment for Digital, gether with the EVERY THURSDAYY the Gi gacle ar roll-out Cu ltur e, Media and prov iders, w e want to   FRQOU MAL TIHTYYE DCEONMTFUORRRETTS O AAFTT YGORUERRAAA TTO PPWRRNNIC HEOSM...E tdiamteedt arbelgeu lwarillly boen uth pe- Spepaonrt ,R tehgei oEnU a’ls D Eeuvreol-- elantseus tr ei n yfoorum haativoen .t he IN HO NI TON & SI DMOUTH TTeerry Neew we b at www.gig aclear. opm ent Fund, Heart “These are major com/conne cting- o f th e Sou th West engineering projects, rdoelvloount --asnchde- sdoumleer set- PLaorctanl ershiEp,n ltoecr aplr aisue- abnerd tohf ecreh aalrleen ag ensu mto- D e n ture Cl inic Resid ents and busi - thorities and the pri- completin g these new TThheellmm aa HHuull bbeerrtt GGaalllleerryy   nesses can also exp ect vat e s ector. netwo rks.” Do w ell Street tino forremceaivtieo nn e frwosm a Gnid- siTohne c pormoppolesmede enxtps aann- DSLt,e cvhe a Hirimndalne yo fC tBhEe Honiton   mHe aavseu rtehde, pm eaarfdeec ta dnedn etvuerne pgaocstle.a r and CDS by icnocmrmeaesrecdi al levienlv esotf- WHeeasrt t Lofo cta hl e ESnotuet rh- 10.00 a m - 12.00 noon   fitted in thhe comfort of CDS connects some ment in broadband prise Partnersh ip your owwn home with of the hardest to across the region. said: “CDS is another Kennaway House   I want to oour hoome visits, or reach communities in Councillor Stuart great example of our t comme to denture Econmglmanedrc, iawl hemrea rtkheet BCoaurknetry, CouDnecviol’ns GGroovwertnh m eD neta dl eliwv ietrh- SCiod b muorgu t Rh oad clinic for a   consultation winiflrla nstortu cptruorvei.d e tThoe ECcaobninoemt yM aenmdb Sekr ilflosr, itnhrgo tuagnhgo iubtl et h bee wnehfoitles 2.00 pm - 4.00pm • Complete Dentures Direct TTooo the Public date, more than said: “Having access of the Heart of the • Dent•u rRee AgdisvtDiecerene •dta &Fl aTT Qeestcu,ha pnlirifociefiaedns CCs iloinniacla Sl ervice 2bc5eu0ss,si0 n0e0s tsoeh so mshueapsv eer afaanscdt- vteoci toanbl oremolaeydm baeannndtd oefvi seo ruyar- SwSoohumitcehhr sceWo tv,e esPrt sly aDmreeova uo tnh– , A Cartier 'Panthere' r ing • 7 Days A Week Serviice broadband because of day life, but in the and Torbay. All enquiries please To be included Ein s otiumra Ftein £e8 A0r 0t -A£u1c, 0ti0o0n* • DentCal oRevpaeirrsi &n Agglt eSraotiomns eWWrhsilee YYtoou Wait CCDDSS doiensv esthtmise nbtsy. ahraeradse stht teo c roemacmhe rrucriaall ne“rBsyh wipo wr ki tihn gt hine lpoacra tl- teleph one 01392 413100 * Plus Buyer's Premium of 252.22%n din-c2l4. VthA TJ a@n u2a0r%y awarding public sub- market is not going to authorities and Na- 01458 2100039 sidised contracts to deliver without sup- tional P arks in t hese S t. Edmu nd’s Court, Okehampt on S treet, Exeter. EX 4 1DU companies through port, we have to work areas, we ’re enabl ing W: wwww.bh andl.co.uk E: [email protected] Thomas Farm, Pedwell, Bridgwaater TTAA7 9BN competitive tender to together. new busin esses t o 4 Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 SOUTH SOMERSET www.viewnews.co.uk Octagon panto From small seedss... PANTOMIME magic is oozing from the very PANTO fans young and old from foundations of the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil across South Somerset have been once again as the festive treat of traditional panto fun and hilarity spins its all-encom- roaring with laughter at the passing smile. Octagon Theatre in Yeovil, as the The award-winning Octagon is a very spe- venue stages Cinderella. Today, cial theatre for all 12 months of the year, but Pulman’s View from it takes on an extra heart-warming glow over the festive period when the panto team ar- South Somerset rives in town. correspondent And audiences at this season’s production, STEVE SOWDEN, Cinderella, have been experiencing a treat – make no mistake, it really is a classic pan- right, gives a big tomime, arguably one of the best to have ever thumbs-up to the been staged at the Octagon. show, which For great advertising iddeeeaaaaaasssssssss I won’t be giving anything away for fear of spoiling it for future audiences –the show concludes its run ends its run on Sunday (January 7) – al- on Sunday call Ma(cid:31) on though it has to be said that most people al- ready know the general synopsis of the much-loved story of Cinderella. And Cinderellaat the Octagon Theatre is 01297 446163333333 The panto – brought to the Octagon once all about the panto – and the cast help to again by the amazing Evolution Pantomimes make it a wonderful couple of hours of pure – has got everything you would normally as- joyous entertainment. sociate with panto: the corny jokes, the slap- The cast is very strong with Jack View Family Announncements stick humour, outrageous costumes, fun, Glanville, now in panto at the Octagon for a mayhem, jollity, dancing, singing, goodies third successive year, the funny-guy lynch- and baddies, boos and hisses. pin of the production as Buttons. Oh yes it has! Lizzie Frances, at the Octagon in her fifth One of the great things about the panto at pantomime, produces another wonderful the Octagon each year is that it has tended to performance as the Fairy Godmother. stay away from having a well-known And then you have a real local link with “celebrity” in the cast and gone for more of a Crewkerne-born Thomas Ford, who was HHaaappppppyy 660000ttthh BBiirrrttthhhdddaaayy HHeeellleeenn team cast with a few regulars who have be- once a regular with Yeovil Amateur Operatic come firm favourites with the audiences. Society and Yeovil Youth Theatre, putting in So it means that instead of the show being a fabulously comical depiction of Dandini. on Neww Years Day all about a well-known “celebrity”, the close- But if you have to pick “stars of the Love you lots, Andyy Suzie and Dannie x knit cast can ensure that it is all about the show” –and it is difficult when the cast is so panto. good with so many fine performances – nLIZZIE nASHLEY Emerson as Prince Charming Frances and Joanna Sawyer as Cinderella as Fairy Pictures courtesy of the Godmother OCTAGON THEATRE HHaaapppppy 188ttthh Biirrrttthhhdddaaayy CCCaaaiiitttllliiinn oonn DDeeccceemmbbeerr 3311sstt. CCoonnggrraattuullaatttions on your ccoming of age! Lots of lovve from Muum & Dad & all the family Xxx HAPPY Biirrtthhhdddaaayy FREE FFAAMILLYY ANNOUNCEMENT ORDER FORM Messaagge........................................................................................................................................................................................................ nTHE warming tones of ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Mike Evans have been comforting patients at ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Yeovil District Hospital since 1973. But Mike has now decided to call it a day after an Date ffoor insertion: Tuesdaayy..................................................................................................................................................................... amazing 44 years of volunteering for the hospital’s Radio Camelot service. For Send to: VIEW FROOM NEWSPPAAPERS,UUnnit 3, St Michaels Business Centre, Church Street, LLyyme Reegis, Dorset DT7 3DB several years Mike presented with his wife or Emaaiil: [email protected] Nicola. But after she died he was joined in the studio by Daphne Patrick –and in recent Siggnned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TTeelephone................................................................................................. years they have delighted patients on Please include s.a.e. ffoor the retuurrn of photos. alternate Thursday evenings. Daphne has ALL FFAAMILLYY ANNOUNCEMENTS MUST BE IN 12 NOON ON also announced her departure from Radio Camelot. Pictured are MONDDAAAYY FOR THE TUESDDAAAYY PUBLICAATTION Mike and Daphne in the studio at the hospital www.viewnews.co.uk SOUTH SOMERSET Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 5 is a real cracker . . . oh yes it is! purely from the opinion of this scribe’s eyes, life by the accomplished Ashley Emerson, out loud – even the talented group of six all- find anything negative to say about the it would have to be Matt Daines, who is also who has enjoyed some success in previous dancing courtiers. panto. It truly is magical. the panto director, and Ian Smith as the Ugly years in Britain’s Got Talentand The X Fac- It is often the way that the dancers are just Congratulations to Adam Burgan and Co Sisters named Beatrice and Eugenie. tor. there to dance and to, possibly, make up the at the Octagon Theatre, and Paul Hendy, The traditional panto dames are larger Laughter is the key to pantomime. And numbers for the show. But they really do Emily Wood and everyone involved in the than life, with even larger knickers and one of the key ingredients as to why the Oc- play their part in this pantomime and add to show from Evolution Pantomimes – it is def- initely a smash hit in my eyes. chests, and are brilliantly funny. tagon’s festive feast of fun is such a success the laughter. And I must not forget the juve- And future audiences will love the amaz- And although they are on the receiving is that the cringeworthy jokes – some of nile dancers, who were selected locally and ing “showstopper” moment at the end of the end of the boos and the jeers they really are which are actually very funny –the witty are surely having the time of their life on first half – but I don’t want to give anything loved by the audience. one-liners, which are also well worth remem- stage over the panto run which will prove an away about that. Then you have Mark Faith as Baron bering, and the visual comedy, which needs experience of a lifetime. l FOR ticket details, go to the Octagon’s Hardup who adds some customary bumbling to be seen rather than read about here, is The costumes are great, the music is fab website at octagon-theatre.co.uk or call nonsense to proceedings which centres shared around the cast rather than concen- and the scenery is superb. It is difficult to the box office on 01935 422884. round the blossoming romance between trated on one or two characters. Cinderella, played beautifully by Joanna All of the cast get in on the act of making Sawyer, and Prince Charming, brought to the audience smile from ear to ear and laugh BIG DISCOOUUUNNNTTS OONN nJACK Glanville as Buttons SEELLLEECCTTTEEEDD n MARK Faith as Baron Hardup * KKIIITTCCHHHEEENNNSS! Give unwanted bikes a new life AN INITIATIVE to repair and world of difference, enabling cycle redundant bikes and I restore abandoned bikes, so children in remote communi- am pleased that our £500 that they can then go on to ties to get to school more eas- Streetscene team are working UUPTO WOORRTTH OF people who need them, is ily. on this initiative with being supported by the Chris Cooper, who heads Bikes4Africa. Streetscene team at South the council’s Streetscene Ser- “Although not encouraging Somerset District Council. vices, said “A fair number of residents to abandon their FRREEE AAPPPLIIAAANNCES Unwanted bikes that turn battered or redundant bikes bikes, we ask that you bring up at the Lufton depot in come our way and this is a them to our depot for us to Yeovil, in rubbish or via fly- perfect method to recycle pass them on.” tips, are being rescued by the them –by moving them on to If you are thinking of re- From design to delivery coupled with a high level of affttercare and Streetscene team and passed an agency that can refurbish placing bicycles in your fam- on to a specialist charity them so that they are useful to ily, Streetscene Services –at 7 supplier guarantee, your home improvements are made easy withMKM which organises restoration people who need them.” Artillery Road, Yeovil, BA22 and delivers them from the Cllr Jo Roundell Greene, the 8RP –will be happy to receive UK to schools in Africa. council’s deputy leader, said: any unwanted ones and pass Having a bicycle can make a “This is a fantastic way to re- them on to Bikes4Africa. nTHE Royal Canadian Air Force’s CF-18 Hornet Demonstration Team is coming to RNAS Yeovilton fifinnd out whhyy we’rree tthhe ttaallkk ooff tthhe ttoown...viissiitt ouurr sshhowrrooom ttooddaaayyy!! Canadian jet set to thrill Air Day crowds ONE of the world’s most dynamic and the early 1980s. At the sharpest end of powerful solo fast jet displays has be- the Royal Canadian Air Force, it is a key come this year’s RNAS Yeovilton Inter- element of the US and Canada’s North national Air Day’s first confirmed flying American Aerospace Defence Com- participant. mand –NORAD –that celebrates its 60th The Royal Canadian Air Force’s CF-18 anniversary in 2018. Hornet Demonstration Team is making International Air Day organisers ex- its first UK appearance in 10 years and pect that the display jet will wear a stun- its first International Air Day visit in ning paint scheme to acknowledge this *For full terms and conditions ask in branch. To receive a free appliance minimmum spend quantities apply decades. milestone. Offffeer available from 3rrd January 2017 – 20th March 2017 on selected ranges and units only. Canada’s display Hornet is just part of Early-bird tickets with no booking MKKMM HONITTTOON the substantial international line-up fees are now on sale, for a limited period now taking shape as discussions with only, for July 7’s International Air Day. HEAATTH TRRAADE PPAARK, GLOOUCESSTTER CRESCENT various nations progress. The offer –an adult ticket, for those The twin-engined, twin-tailed Hornet aged 16-plus, at £22 and a child ticket, HONITTOON, DEVVOON EX1144 1DS is a potent, modern-day, multirole for ages five to 15, at £5 –runs until Jan- fl 0114404 441124422| mkmbs.ccooo.uk fighter that Canada has operated since uary 31. 6 Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 YEOVIL www.viewnews.co.uk School staff wow concert audience THE staff choir certainly had the X n LILY Keen factor at the Preston School Winter Concert in Yeovil. The concert showcased a fine array of talent from solo singers to choirs, rock music to seasonal favourites, and individual instru- mentalists to the full school orches- tra. It featured a diverse selection of music –from Metallica to Leonard Cohen, and Wham to Bob Dylan. And one of the star performances was the staff choir’s rendition of The Little Drummer Boy, Jonathan Peace taking on the lead role in true Bing Crosby and Davie Bowie style. Although the whole show was a great evening of entertainment, an- other notable performance came from guitar-playing soloist Amy n CLOCKWISE from above –the  Overd who gave a super rendition Preston School staff choir; Amy of the Wham classic Last Christ- Overd; rocking the house were Rob mas. Kirkland and Ben Champion;  Ellie Bowers-Cook did really well members of the school choir on the recorder with another fes- tive cracker, Fairytale Of New York. The senior choir’s performance of One Day Like This, the Elbow song, was a hit with the audience. And special mention goes to soloist singers Rachel Boote and Anastacia Hayward who performed admirably despite having throat problems. The list of great performances could go on and on – but Preston principal Gregg Morrison summed up the concert when he said every- one had played their part in a won- derful night of entertainment. Concert pictures by nCOURTNEY Terry nRACHEL Boote CHRISTINE JONES OOtttttter VVaalllllley PPaarkk quality reesiddenttial paark Spacious plots | Alongsidee parking | Privaate Garden | Stunning countryside views Less thaan 1 mile from HHoniton Toown in Devon New Park Homes for Sale Empty Plots AAvvailable for a Park Home of Yoour Choice book your viewing todaayy! wwwwww.ootttttttteerrrrvvvvaalllleeyyppaarrkk.ccoooo.uukk || 0011993344 88882233228888 || iinnffoo@@@@ootttteerrrrvvvvaalllleeyyppaarrkk.ccoo.uukk eennjjooyy a quuallitttyy liiffeesstttyyle... Otter VVaalley Park, Honitoon, Devon, EX14 4PPAA www.viewnews.co.uk CHARD Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 7 Kids follow in footsteps n AUTHOR Jeff Farley with Amanda Broom at Chard Bookshop of forensic investigators YEAR 9 children from Holy- rood Academy in Chard were given an insight into the world of forensic inves- tigations. The budding scientists were introduced –by a team from Bournemouth Univer- sity –to A-level and univer- sity activities including blood-splatter evidence, DNA extraction, footprint analysis and chemical-sepa- ration techniques. History republished The youngsters were given a challenge in which they had to try to solve a A BOOK looking at the history of Chard and make-believe festive crime. surrounding villages from down the years has been Several groups success- republished. fully identified Rudolph’s Chard And Its Villageswas first published in 2010 by Jeff Farley and the late Frank Huddy but had killer after examining the been out of print for several years. It has now been forensic evidence. republished, with copies held at Chard Bookshop Holyrood science teacher in Pig Lane, off the town’s Holyrood Street, and at Becky Smith said: “I was in- Chard Museum in High Street. credibly impressed with Jeff went along to the bookshop to sign copies of our Year 9 students. the reprinted book which takes a pictorial look back “They were polite and at the area. thoughtful and approached Chard Bookshop owner Amanda Broom said: “I some very difficult science can’t thank Jeff enough for coming out on a with enthusiasm. freezing day to sign copies for us. This book has al- “This type of workshop ways been such a popular seller.” introduces our students to Chard And Its Villagesis part of a local display further education. which has a variety of books, many of which are “I hope it has given these published by Chard History Group, covering such 60 able students an opportu- topics as Phoenix Engineering, Dening of Chard and Donyatt Pottery. nity to consider their future options.” Five reasons CONSERVATORIES us... to usse DD EEE SSIGNEEDD TTOOORRRYY •• 77 AANNNDD M 11 LLooww ddeeppoossiitt C ANN AA UU 2 Minimum 15 yeear guarantee on all units F RRUUUOO NNAII RDER UU TTTCCCAAAFFF Up to 3 UPVC and Alumminium frames and sealed glazed units 40% off manufactured bby us selected products 4 Latest innovative products WWIINNDDOOWWSSS DDOOOORRSS 5 Competition to Win £2000 in Travel VVoouchers. Visit our website for details Maddee in tthhe WWeest Counttrrryy T: 08000 378 371 www.westcountrywindows.ccom Supporting St Margaret`s Hospice throughout 2018. Details on our website Glass and Glazing Federation 8 Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 ILMINSTER www.viewnews.co.uk Spuds... you really, Consider yourselves great performers nLEFT, really like them! Fagin (Ben Overd) and the Artful Dodger (Heidi Warren), MORE than 2,000 tonnes of potatoes were across the country prepared for the festive top, with packed at and distributed from Branston season. Potato packing jumped from 170 Oliver Ltd’s factory near Ilminster in the week lead- tonnes a day to more than 550 tonnes on the (George ing up to Christmas Day. peak days in the week before Christmas and Souster), That marked an increase of 73 per cent on our production facility operated around the centre, and the average week at the site. clock to meet demand. the rest of As demand soared for one of the nation’s “Your festive dinner would not be the Fagin’s favourite components of Christmas dinner, same without some lovely fluffy crisp gang; more than 16.2 million packs of potatoes were roasties, so no wonder we had such a surge below, Bill sold by retailers nationwide during the week in sales. Sykes (Keiron leading up to Christmas. “King Edward and Maris Piper are the Wilce) and Jonathan Taylor, general manager at best-known varieties for roasties as they Nancy Branston at Seavington St Michael, said: have that fluffy texture that crisps up really (Hannah “From December 13 we really started to see well. But all our potatoes made a great addi- Cumming) uplift in demand for potatoes, as families tion to Christmas.” Pictures by CHRISTINE Cast full of beans at panto rehearsals JONES REHEARSALS are well under way in DS Peel and PC Plod (Steve Uzzell and Ruth BROADWAY Amateur Theatrical Society enter- Dowlish Wake near Ilminster for this Proctor). tained audiences in style with its production of month’s pantomime production. The pantomime will be performed in the much-loved musical Oliver! Some 30 friends and neighbours from Speke Hall, Dowlish, on January 25, 26 and The show about orphan Oliver, who gets Dowlish Wake, Kingstone, Oxenford, Chill- 27. mixed up with Fagin and his gang and the evil ington and further afield have come together Tickets, at £10 per adult and £5 per child Bill Sykes, never loses its appeal –and the BATS to put on Jack And The Beanstalk. aged 12 and under, are on sale. team certainly did the show justice. Taking the lead role of Oliver was George The pantomime, brought together by John All proceeds from the show will go to the Souster. The role of Oliver’s pal, the Artful Cope and directed by Peter Bucks, tells the upkeep of the Speke Hall as a community re- Dodger, was shared by Isla Gibson and Heidi story of local hero Jack Dowlish (Becky Jam) source. Warren for the run of the show at Broadway Vil- who battles the evil Giant Hugh Mungus The cast and behind-the-scenes supporters lage Hall near Ilminster. (Peter Bucks) to save the life of his only are grateful for the sponsorship they are re- Ben Overd –a veteran of BATS shows –was like Harry Secombe and Peggy Mount in the true love, Mary from the Dairy (Clare Rip- ceiving from local businesses and would be a superb Fagin. Keiron Wilce was excellent as timeless 1968 film musical version. ley). grateful for any further backing. Bill Sykes, and Hannah Cumming shone as But the musical Oliver!is a team effort and Meanwhile, Jack is also fighting to save The production is full of jokes, songs to Nancy. the entire cast did their bit to bring it to life with his mother, Dame Dowlish (John Cope), from sing along to and plenty of audience partici- Mr Bumble was played by Richard Baker, with memorable songs such as Consider Yourself, eviction from her home by the wicked Squire pation – and promises to be a great time for “love interest” Widow Corney played by Chris- You’ve Got ToPick A Pocket Or Two, It’s A Fine tine Trueman – they were a fine double act just Life, Be Back Soon and Oom-Pah-Pah. (Edward Colgan) and his hapless henchmen, all the family. SOMMETHINNG NOOT QUIITE RIGHT WWIITTHHHH YYOOUUUURR AADDVVVEERRTTIIIISSIINNGG??? Solvee thhe puzzle, let the Vieew from heelp. view from Call Matt Tippping on 012977 446163 or emaail [email protected] newspapers www.viewnews.co.uk CREWKERNE Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 9 Drama group to bring classic fairytale to life CREWKERNE United Dramatic & In September, CUDOS will be stag- Operatic Society –CUDOS –is bring- ing its version of comedy Spamalot. ing its version of a classic fairytale to A spokesman for the society said: the stage this month. “Lovingly ripped off from the hugely Snow White, written and directed successful 1975 film Monty Python by Ann Brolly, will be at the Victoria And The Holy Grail, this spammier Hall, Market Square, Crewkerne, than ever production is a riotous from January 24 to 27. comedy full of misfit knights, killer Performances of the show, which rabbits, dancing nuns and ferocious is described by CUDOS as a tradi- Frenchmen. tional pantomime suitable for all the Robert Judge; Snow White – Sian “Join King Arthur as he travels family, will be at 7.30pm –and there Flint; Nurse Nora – Ray Norris; with his hapless Knights of the will be a matinee on Saturday Jan- Queen Wanda –Sarah Elliott; Magi- Round Table on a divine mission to uary 27 at 2.30pm. cal Mirror –Danny Brand; Hilda – locate the elusive Holy Grail – with The cast is: Young Snow White – Kerry Peters; Mutt – Will Scott- uproarious consequences.” Callie-Rose Guppy; Queen Belinda – Robinson; Jeff – Diana Hodgson; Meanwhile, CUDOS will hold its n MEL Brooks’ comedy The Producers is Fiona Edgington; King Wilfred – Prince Victor –Jas Cook; Sue –Mil- annual meeting on Friday March 30. coming to Clapton & Wayford Village Hall this week lie Pattemore; Fran –Leonie Dash; This will be held in the Victoria Be a smarty and don’t miss Callum –Christian Barry; Pam –Lot- Hall (7.30pm for a 7.45pm prompt tie Dixon; Izzie – Hatty Souttar- start). Stone; Gill –Jess Cummins; Rupert A spokesman for the society said: screening of The Producers Aloysius –George Flint; Company – “Patrons are most welcome to attend Katy Lyons, Neus Luna, Keith and it is always a pleasure to see you. Allington, Vicky Stephens, Lorraine “May we please remind junior Dash, Tomas Lowe, Natalie Gowan, members, non-paid-up members and CLAPTON & Wayford Film Society includes the legendary number Phoebe Edgington, Makenzie Peters, patrons that they are not eligible to will show Mel Brooks’ classic Springtime For Hitler. Georgia England, Hannah Broom, vote.” comedy The Producers on The Producersis being shown Tori Eglon, Frank Agar, Imogen Thursday (January 4). at Clapton & Wayford Village Hall Wyatt, Molly Hill, Lillie Woodhead, The Producers(1967) is a spoof on Thursday, with doors opening Logan Dixon, Madison Palmer- of theatre on New York’s at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Gowan and Robyn Edgington. nTHE Crewkerne Broadway and has earned a Pre-booked guest tickets are Tickets are £8 per adult and £6 per United Dramatic devoted cult following. It is about £4 each. two Broadway producers who set For more information, to join concession and are available via the & Operatic out to deliberately fail and end the society or to pre-book, send society’s website cudoscrewkerne. Society version up with a smash hit. an email to mickpwilson53@ com or by calling 01460 74380. of Snow Whiteis The film stars Gene Wilder, btinternet.com or call Mick Snow Whiteis the first show of an written and Zero Mostel, Kenneth Mars, Dick Wilson on 01460 74849 or Di exciting programme for the society directed by Shawn and Lee Meredith and Crawley on 01460 30508. this year. Ann Brolly FREEE 55-DDAAYYY LL EEIISSUU RREE CCLLUUUBB TT RRIIAAALL at Cricket St Thomas Hotel Yes, you read thatt right! We’re giving you consecutive dayys totallly frree. Our members love the indoor pool with sauna and steam room, the spacious, well equuipped gym and choice of exercise classes. They love the stunning location and the relaxed frriendly atmosphere. Once you’ve tried the club we think you’ll love it too! For more informmattion visit or calll Offfeer ends 28th February 2018 10 Tuesday, January 2nd 2018 NEW YEAR BAUBLES www.viewnews.co.uk SSOUTHERN FUELS YYOOUURR LOCAL INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR BASED IN HONITON RING US FOR THE BEST PRICES ON HEATING OIL ROAD DIESEL RED DIESEL Wishing our customers old and new a Happy New Year 01404 831775 LLYYME BAAYYY PHOTOGRAPHY Family photoshoot gift vouchers available 07921 556723 [email protected] PPainting & Decorating, @lymebayphotos SSttttoneworkk && BBriickkworkk, /lymebayphotos General Masonry, lymebayphotography.com EExtensions, Plastering, HHaappppyy New YYeear FROM ALL OF US ATT VIEW NEWS Wishing all our customers & readers a Happy NNeeww YYeeaarr ffrom HHappy NNeww Year DESIGN • WEBB • MEDIA • MARKETING www.eetchd.co.uk TO ADVERTISE CALL LILLIE ON 01297 446160 OR MATTT ON 01297 61163