Mendip Times
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VOLUME 17 ISSUE 9
FREE
Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas
FEBRUARY 2022
IN THIS ISSUE: • TRACTOR RUNS • SNOWDROPS • WHAT’S ON • FARMING • MUSIC
Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news
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MENDIP TIMES
CONTENTS
Welcome
THE snowdrops are appearing, a sure sign of spring, and we have news of various festivals planned across our area, including the most ambitious in Shepton Mallet, home of the Snowdrop King, James Allen. Many villages have also been doing their bit to encourage spring apple blossom with local wassails. We have photos from several events. Tractor runs are becoming a newer tradition, all in aid of good causes, with a particularly poignant run through North Somerset by 158 tractors. Another made it a very special Christmas for a young girl from Chew Stoke. There have been protests over plans to reopen a Mendip quarry, while a new sports park is being built in Cheddar. We also have tributes to several prominent Mendip people, who have died recently. We find out what Del Boy was doing in Binegar and meet the brother and sister who have been cleaning up Chantry. We also have a special report on the Somerset Invitational Tiddlywinks Tournament and on a successful project to save the rare Stanton Plum! With all of our regular contributors and features, brighter days are on the way. March 2022 deadline: Friday 11th February Published: Tuesday 22nd February Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk What’s On listings: Annie Egginton annie@mendiptimes.co.uk Accounts: accounts@mendiptimes.co.uk Publisher: Mendip Times Limited Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone:
01761 463888
or email: news@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk
Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: William Gibbons & Sons Ltd, Willenhall, Wolverhampton WV13 3XA. Copyright of editorial content held by Mendip Times Ltd. and its contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the Publisher. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the publisher or its associates. Front cover: Bella, Kilmersdon’s wassail queen. Photo by Mark Adler. See page 32.
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32
Rallying around Ed – charity tractor run
A-wassailing we will go – blessing Mendip’s orchards
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72
Time for tea – Binegar’s barrow race
Mendip mud-fest – Lamb’s Lair time trials Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Nick Green .....................10 Internet and Crossword ..............18 Food & Drink ...............................20 Arts & Antiques ...........................25 Charities........................................29 Business.........................................34 Caving Phil Hendy ........................40 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......41
Walking Sue Gearing ....................42 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........44 Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......46 Property ........................................51 Community ...................................54 Health & Family ..........................62 Riding Jane Paterson .....................70 Sport ..............................................72 What’s On.....................................76 MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 3
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MENDIP TIMES
NEWS
Greening a golf course
LAST July we reported on a group of four like-minded ladies from Farrington Golf Club who had got together to increase wildlife on the golf course. They had been inspired by the native wildflower seeds sown under the tee box on the 12th hole by head greenkeeper Andy Grabham and his team. They were impressed by seeing how this amazing, colourful bank of wildflowers attracted the eyes of all golfers as well as hundreds of bees, butterflies and birds. Farrington Ladies Organising Rewilding Activities, or FLORA, as they called themselves, held a fun day to raise funds to help buy plants and seeds. Local gardening expert, Mary Payne, joined the team in July, offering advice on their outline plans to plant more wildflowers. Chair of FLORA, Pat Roscow, said: “This was a huge learning experience and plans were changed. We learned about using yellow rattle plants to control grasses, so that long, rough grass areas of the course can be transformed, in time, to hayfield meadow. “A trial is underway and several days through November and early December found a volunteer group clearing patches of very matted, long, wet grass back to bare soil in order to plant the pernickety rattle seed. If the yellow rattle germinates, wildflower plugs will be planted in the area.” Cam Valley Rotary Club then offered FLORA crocus bulbs
Pictured (l to r) Debbie Jones, Sue Vaille and Jane Ball weeding the wildflower bank on 12th tee
and these were planted up the driveway to the clubhouse. The Rotary Club also offered to supply tree whips from the Woodland Trust and the volunteers have prepared areas to plant some of these. Snowdrop, primrose, evening primrose, foxglove, forgetme-not, cranesbill and honesty have been planted around the course so far. In October Dave Cottle, a member of the Somerset Bat Society, offered advice on how to encourage bats. A walk round the course identified suitable trees on which to site bat boxes and the type recommended by Dave will be purchased by FLORA and installed by the green keepers. All this time the FLORA team have also been keeping an eye out for wildlife. Pat said: “A muntjac deer and a hare have been seen on the 2nd and stoats more than once. Buzzards were nesting on the course edge by the 12th. Kestrels have been seen for the first time in a few years, for example catching worms from a perch on the flag of the 18th green. “During the summer a young fox appeared and is now a constant presence. It is a beautiful, healthy animal. Unfortunately golfers are feeding it, which is not to be encouraged, as it may ultimately become a nuisance. “Our team is learning a lot and are very grateful to all the volunteer helpers, to people and organisations advising us and supplying plants, and also to head greenkeeper, Andy Grabham, who has been very supportive.”
Scalpings plan is approved despite objections
VILLAGERS in Downhead, near Shepton Mallet, have expressed their disappointment after the operators of a quarry won planning permission to store scalpings on nearby farmland. Aggregate Industries, which runs Torr Works, says the plan is temporary and will allow them to clear the quarry floor where they are stored currently to reach valuable limestone reserves. Around one millions tonnes of scalpings are produced by the quarry ever year, with the proposed pile on the farmland, off Tunscombe Lane, predicted to reach a maximum height of 19 metres. Villagers say that will be visible from Downhead Church and have also told of their concerns for people and horseriders using Tunscombe Lane due to the number of lorry movements each day. AI has proposed installing traffic lights.
Amongst those is Pat Bishop, owner of Divoky Riding School at Manor Farm, who uses the lane on a regular basis as it is flat and ideal for novice riders or riders with disabilities. Pat said: “Not only will the scalping be visible from here also, but the work could pose a serious threat to my business as we use the bridleway all the time.” Fellow objector Fiona Phillips said: “We are concerned about the cumulative impact on the area and on the Asham Wood SSSI.” They are also concerned that the proposed reopening of nearby Westdown Quarry and the expansion of Whatley Quarry were not taken into consideration when Somerset County Council’s regulatory committee voted six-one to approve the plans. A total of 107 people objected. l See Environment p8.
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MENDIP TIMES
Litter pickers
Off-road damage at Charterhouse
THE hamlet of Chantry is looking a lot tidier, thanks to the efforts of Seth Gillard, aged five, and his sister, Violet, aged two. For weeks Seth had been commenting on the amount of litter on the roadside and particularly through Chantry. So along with his sister and armed with hi-vis clothing and litter picking tools he set out on his quest to do his bit for the environment. When asked why he wanted to clean up the litter he said: “It’s important for the animals who live in our village.”
THE driver of a vehicle illegally damaging a scheduled monument at Charterhouse has been traced by police and warned that the vehicle will be seized if stopped again. The Land Rover had been driven across sensitive areas of the site damaging the surface and the rare plants that live in the unusual habitat before becoming stuck. Charterhouse has been mined for lead and other minerals for 2000 years and the spoil heaps provide a unique habitat for rare plants. Jim Hardcastle, Mendip Hills AONB manager said: “It's reassuring that the police have taken this and other incidents of damage to our national heritage seriously. These sites are protected as they represent our collective history and can't be recreated. “This particular site is also a stronghold for rare plants and animals. At a time when we're facing an ecological emergency these sites become even more precious to us all. The message should go out to all people that drive off-road illegally that we take it seriously and will work with the police to prosecute offenders.” Bob Croft, from the South West Heritage Trust, said: “The nationally-important Roman and later lead mining remains at Charterhouse are exceptionally fragile and can be easily damaged by irresponsible off-roading. “The recent damage means that careful repairs to the earthworks will now be necessary.”
Tackling climate change with new online network ENVIRONMENTALLY conscious individuals, groups and organisations from across B&NES can now join the Zero Carbon Nature Positive Network to add their voices to climate action. The network provides a platform for people to learn what others are doing across the region to tackle the climate and ecological emergencies and enables local groups to collaborate, support each other and share skills. Anyone can browse the network, share information, keep up to date with the latest news and opportunities and
find out how they can support action in the community to help tackle climate change together. Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for Climate and Sustainable Travel, said: “The network forms part of the council’s commitment to tackling the climate and ecological emergencies and providing the leadership to enable the scale of ambition to be realised. “The network will allow those organisations to showcase the commitments they have made, to
communicate ideas and events on sustainability and the climate emergency and to collaborate with likeminded groups and individuals to help Bath and North East Somerset become Carbon Zero.” The blog on the site will feature posts by guest bloggers and case studies. Anyone with a story who would like to feature on the blog can email: sustainability@bathnes.gov.uk with ‘ZCNP Blog Pitch’ as the subject heading.
Details: www.carbonneutralbathnes.ning.com
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Monitoring butterflies
Painted lady on hemp agrimony
VOLUNTEERS are needed for butterfly surveys across our area. They undertake weekly transect walks between April and September each year. The data collected is used locally by reserve managers to help develop their management plans and nationally by Butterfly Conservation to monitor changes in UK butterfly populations. Whilst also enjoying the wonderful tranquillity and biodiversity of the Avalon Marshes Reserves, they record the number and species of all the butterflies on each of the walks. Having established new transect routes at Westhay Moor and Gordano in 2021, organisers urgently need to recruit new volunteers. Full training will be provided. Details: Fred Giles at butterflysurvey@outlook.com
ENVIRONMENT
Celebrating local wildlife
PREPARATIONS are underway for a Wildlife Window Wanderland in Yatton, Claverham and Congresbury on the weekend of February 11th13th. All households will be encouraged to take part by decorating their windows along the theme of Love Your Local Wildlife to coincide with Valentine’s weekend. Organisers say from birds and bats to bug-life and wild flowers, everyone can be inspired to celebrate the variety of wildlife that makes this part of North Somerset so special. Street-facing windows all over the three communities will be part of an outdoor wildlife art gallery that is free for everyone to enjoy from 6pm until 9pm each of those three evenings. Whether displays use colour and light, or people only have time to put up a green heart to show their love of wildlife, the organisers are looking for a big response. Organisers, Yatton and Congresbury Wildlife Action Group (YACWAG) is working hard to get people involved and would be glad to hear from individuals, local groups and organisations. They can provide a materials pack along with inspiration for designs and practical tips. It is also expected that online workshops will take place nearer the time. Details: https://www.windowwanderland.com/event/yatton-andcongresbury-2022/yacwag2@gmail.com
Join Frome’s community wildlife mapping project FROME Town Council has partnered with the Somerset Environmental Record Centre to create Frome’s own interactive digital wildlife map and is asking residents and visitors to help gather data.
(Photo courtesy of Guy Edwards)
The common frog
Anyone can take part and contribute, whether you are an experienced wildlife recorder or a novice; recording has been made fun and easy with a free phone app called Seek using the iNaturalist platform and all you need to do is: Alternatively, you can make a record with pen and paper and upload it on iNaturalist at home, and if you don’t have access online, the council will be more than happy to take your observations over the phone. Council resilience officer, Joanna Morris said: “This is such an exciting opportunity, the map will show the data submitted by individuals across the town and will be available for everyone to see. You can record all types of wildlife, whether on your walk to work or school, walking the dog or when relaxing in your garden. It will allow us to learn about species present in Frome and to see how we can best support those species that need it.” The project coincides with the Great Somerset Wildlife Count, Somerset Wildlife Trust’s new community science initiative. There will be a number of different counts from GSWC throughout the year focusing on different species of concern, starting with the frog and toad spawn count which runs until March 31st.
For details, visit: www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/wild-about-frome
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 7
MENDIP TIMES
Quarry protest gathers pace
AROUND 150 people opposed to the reopening and expansion of a Mendip quarry have staged a protest on the site ahead of a decision by Somerset County Council to give the go-ahead to the plans or turn them down. Quarry owners Hanson says it already has permission to extract limestone from Westdown Quarry, near Nunney. A planning application is due to be discussed by county planners in the coming months. Hanson proposes to extend Westdown and make use pf the railhead at Whatley Quarry to minimise lorry movements. The plan would create around 40 full-time jobs and quarrying would last until 2042. Richard Mawer from Westdown Objectors Group said: “This application will take out around 200 acres of Westdown Farm land, dump the overburden into the disused and regenerating Asham Quarry, to quarry around 160,000,000 tonnes of stone over many decades causing a huge increase in lorry traffic. “All this right next to the ancient and species rich Asham Wood. This will produce an estimated 40 jobs but, in the process, will cause significant harm to some of the Mendip's most nature rich sites and destroy any chance of Mendip, Somerset and the UK keeping to our net zero carbon targets to stop further climate breakdown.” Ian Strachan strategic development manager, Hanson UK, said: “We recognise the right to peaceful protest, however, the recent demonstration at Westdown quarry not only involved trespassing, but even more concerningly, the protestors’ presence and their actions – such as scaling a quarry face to Reopening Westdown Quarry would threaten hang a banner – could have wildlife at Asham Wood, say objectors PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
ENVIRONMENT
The protest at Westdown and Asham
Protestors say expansion would go against efforts to tackle the global climate crisis
resulted in serious injury. “We also want to stress that their campaign is misinformed, as our proposals to update existing permissions for Westdown quarry do not threaten the integrity and biological diversity of Asham Wood SSSI. “In fact, our proposals include significant ecological enhancements through the restoration of the Asham quarry void area as well as the progressive restoration of the quarry. This transformative legacy project will provide extensive biodiversity enhancements and our proposals have been shaped by the need to protect and enhance wildlife habitats as well as delivering safer access for pedestrians and horse-riders. “Reopening Westdown will also free up the rail link at our nearby Whatley quarry to allow vital construction materials to go by rail, helping to limit our carbon footprint and reroute vehicles away from local villages. This reflects our overarching approach that the operations of both quarries, including mineral volumes and vehicle movements, will not exceed the current permitted levels for Whatley.”
(Photography courtesy of ©Taltakingpics)
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MENDIP TIMES
The use of soya in animal feeds
ENVIRONMENTAL issues have risen in what the consuming public consider when they think about food purchases. As farmers, we need to consider how to protect and enhance the environment. One key issue is deciding what we feed to our livestock. Grass is plentiful in our region and a natural part of With NICK any grazing animals’ diet. However, to GREEN supplement grass, other feeds are used. Some others such as maize and cereals are produced on farm, some are grown in other parts of the UK and some, such as soya, are grown abroad. There is a move to eliminate the use of foreign soya on UK farms but currently it remains a key source of protein. But growing soya can be damaging to the environment and its transportation isn’t without issues. The majority of soya used in the UK is sourced from South America. It is shipped across the Atlantic to European ports. There are many different classes of cargo ship but the two main sizes to ship across the Atlantic are Panamax and Capesize. Panamax are so named as they can fit through the locks of the Panama Canal. They have a capacity of between 55,000 and 80,000 tonnes depending on the cargo being carried. Capesize are
Panamax bulker – soya is shipped in this type of ship
too big for the Panama Canal so have to go the “long way round”. They carry up to 156,000 tonnes again depending on the cargo. Although our local Portbury Dock is huge, it isn’t big enough to accommodate these ships so the cargo is shipped into Rotterdam, decanted into smaller ships and delivered to the UK. Hundreds of ships arrive at Portbury each year to discharge their cargoes meaning every ship has to dock, unload, reload and set sail within the agreed time allowed. If the allocated time is exceeded, the shipper is fined for the time they are blocking the port and holding up the following traffic. This all impacts on the price of the feed and this, combined with the environmental impact of growing and shipping soya. is encouraging farmers to look elsewhere for a key part of their animals’ rations.
Nick Green is Farms Director for Alvis Bros Ltd based at Lye Cross Farm. He is responsible for the farming and estate business and is passionate about British food and farming. As well as the business, he is involved with a number of local and national farming charities.
Newly appointed Bobcat dealer for Somerset and Bristol. Telescopic handlers, Skid steers, Excavators 0.8-8.5t
PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
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The Great Candlemas Cattle Fair
Trevor Rowland, senior cattle auctioneer at Frome Livestock Auctioneers, looks ahead to the annual Candlemas Cattle Fair at Standerwick.
WELL, 2022 is upon us and already our thoughts at Frome market are turning to the great “Candlemas Cattle Fair”. The sale has not always been held at Frome, although this has been its home for some years now. The sale originated in Dorset and Dorchester Market. I remember conducting the sale some 40 years ago in Dorchester Market which was sited opposite the then Eldridge Pope Brewery. The market site was not large and certainly not suited to handling 1,000 head of cattle in one single sale! It was a case of “make do” and I used to beg and borrow many large cattle hurdles from local farmers to help extend the penning for the day and trundle around the countryside collecting them with our old market tractor and trailer (which is a story for another time!). Nevertheless, the sale was always hugely exciting and successful with vast numbers of all outwintered cattle coming off the famous Dorset chalklands and hills. Of course, there were no passports or pre-movement testing to contend with in those days! Since the closure of Dorchester, the sale has been held here at Frome and extended over two sales, with older types on Friday, February 4th and younger sorts the following Friday. Frome offers a modern, purpose-built facility with excellent penning, lairage, parking and bio security services but still retaining the magical traditional market day atmosphere. Many cattle continue to come from the Dorset area as well as many of our local farmers and now sees a mixture of indoor and outwintered cattle on offer. Buyers, as always, come from far and wide and relish the opportunity to purchase these quality types at an early point of the year; many quote the old saying: “cattle bought in April never catch up the ones bought at Candlemas”. Preparations are underway and I look forward to seeing you all, along with 1,000 head again this year, at which I am sure will be another exciting sale at Frome Market.
FARMING
EVERY FRIDAY Sale of Store Cattle
EVERY WEDNESDAY Sale of Prime, Store & Cull Sheep Prime & Cull Cattle Dairy Calves Fortnightly Sales of Prime, Store & Cull Pigs Reared Calves FRIDAY ORGANIC SALE DATES Friday 25th February Friday 25th March
FRIDAY 4TH & 11TH FEBRUARY Annual Candlemas sales of Store Cattle Large Numbers anticipated Entries now being taken
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Family tribute to John Padfield THE family of John Padfield, who died on New Year’s Eve at his home in Stratton-on-the-Fosse, have paid tribute to the well-known farmer and community stalwart. John, 83, dedicated his life to farming at Church Farm and Fosse Farm and the surrounding countryside and also to the community, as a whole. He moved to Church Farm when he was six years old in March 1943. In 1950, John started delivering milk to fellow Stratton villagers and, in later years, to Holcombe. Over the years, John welcomed many visitors and school children to the farm to help people understand more about farming, food and nature, especially at the Open Farm Sunday events. John had been on Stratton-on-the Fosse-Parish Council since 1967 and only retired last year, after being chairman for nearly 50 years, helping to spearhead projects including purchasing the new burial ground. Over the years he helped train students at Radstock Technical College in animal husbandry. He coached the “Youth Speaks” teams of Year 6 students at St. Vigor’s & St. John’s School in securing multiple wins at their yearly competitions. John, along with a small village hall committee, worked tirelessly to fundraise and purchase the village hall in 1977 for the community. John was a big part of the Rotary Club of Midsomer Norton and Radstock, which he joined in 1979, being president in
Death of Michael Joyce
MICHAEL Joyce, former senior managing partner of Cooper and Tanner, has died at the age of 68, after being seriously ill for the last few months. This coming year would have marked his 50th anniversary with the firm. He joined it in 1972 at the age of 18, directly after leaving school. He actually had a place to study law, but decided that a more rural career would suit him. He then studied to become a chartered surveyor by postal course whilst working full time and in due course became qualified as a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and a Fellow of the Association for Agricultural Valuers. Michael subsequently became a hugely respected land agent and livestock auctioneer whose expertise and experience was unrivalled in the region. He originally worked in the Castle Cary office before moving to the Frome branch, then based in North Parade. Each Wednesday Michael could be found on the rostrum in the old Frome cattle market, at that time held in what is now the town centre car park. When it was clear that the town centre market was no longer viable Michael was involved in helping to create the new cattle market at Standerwick, where he subsequently became the senior managing partner of Cooper and Tanner and where he was based for the remainder of his working life. He was chairman of Frome Livestock Auctioneers. He was also a church warden at Woodlands Parish Church and was involved over the years in numerous charity auctions and events as well as being a regular judge of Rotary public speaking competitions. PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
John Padfield, who died on New Year’s Eve
1992/1993 and was also a member of four sub-committees. John leaves his wife, Sue, children Jeremy and Debbie, daughter-in-law Sue and grandchildren, Samson, Jason, Eloise and Alicia.
He died at the Bath RUH on Sunday, December 26th, surrounded by his family. He leaves his widow Allyson, daughters Lucy and Jessica and his granddaughter Daisy. The funeral will be on February 22nd, 2pm, at St Katherine’s Church, East Woodlands.
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Hedgers, tractors and Landies!
FARMING
Hard at work at the 2020 hedge laying competition near Wells
THE Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society hedge laying competition returns in February, having been cancelled last year due to the pandemic. Entries are open for the hedge laying competition and tractor run – just turn up for the Land Rover meet. The day – by kind permission of the Hoddinott family – will be the last event for society chairman Ian Harvey, who is stepping down after 13 years. He is due to be succeeded by vice-chairman Graham Walton at the society’s annual meeting in March. Ian oversaw the society’s move to its new showground at Cannards Grave which will host its second show in August. Preparations for the one-day event are well underway. The showground will also host Shepton Mallet’s official beacon being lit on Thursday, June 2nd to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Other attractions are being planned for the night. The tractor run costs £10 which includes a bacon sandwich and a cuppa. l Trade stand application forms for the 2022 Mid-Somerset Show are now available.
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MENDIP TIMES
Tractor run rallies behind heart transplant teenager
FARMING
A Christmas tractor run around North Somerset attracted 158 tractors from all across the area and raised more than £15,000 for the British Heart Foundation. It was organised by George Atwell and George Knowles from Claverham in memory of farmer Graham Baber from Brockley. But it took on an added poignancy when Ed Burdge, son of one of the event’s main supporters, suffered heart failure on November 10th. He’s since had a heart transplant at Royal Papworth Hospital. Steve Egginton reports.
Ed Burdge
Lining up outside Michael Burdge’s
Grammar School have organised a sponsored cycle ride from Bristol to Papworth, Cambridge next month, raising funds for the Royal Papworth Charity. If you would like to donate to this cause please see justgiving.com Eds Charity Cycle. To date the boys have raised £10,800. The tractor rally set off as usual from Michael Burdge’s agricultural machinery business in Yatton, which he has run for 30 years. Organiser, George Atwell, said: “It was obviously an emotional day. Both Ed and Graham’s families were there, it was a bit
overwhelming really. “But there was a really good spirit. It was a proper family country get-together supporting everyone.”
Organisers George Knowles and George Atwell
Details: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/edscharitycylebristol2papworth PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
(Photography by Chris Ager)
ED Burdge, aged 17, underwent a tenhour heart transplant operation on January 9th after surgeons assessed four donor hearts to find one that was suitable. Despite some complications, which required further surgery, he’s conscious and able to talk in a whisper to his parents, Michael and Tandy, who have been at his bedside since he was first admitted to the BRI in November. Ed is a strapping 6’5” 14-stone soccer player, who recently qualified as a football referee. He’s also played for local teams Yatton, Clevedon and Clifton United. He had been paintballing on the weekend before he first complained of chest pains and was admitted to the BRI on a high dependency ward a few days later. When his blood pressure suddenly dropped he was moved to intensive care. He remained at the BRI for several weeks but his condition deteriorated. His parents were told his only chance of survival was a heart transplant. He woke six days after the operation and was able to speak to them. His heart condition was a complete shock. His father, Michael said: “There was no hint of this ever before. It came completely out of the blue. We are so grateful to the teams at the BRI and Papworth.” Six of Ed’s friends from Bristol
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Blagdon wassail
Mendip Society wassail
EVENTS
The Barley Rye choir supported the event
Pictured (l to r) Organiser, Julie Chamberlain, Roger Keel, wassail queen, Glenys Ozanne-Turk, and Alan Barwick
CROWDS gathered at Blagdon Village Club to watch Somerset Morris before processing to Eldred’s Orchard for the traditional wassail ceremony.
Toasting the tree
Society president Les Davies with wassail queen Vanessa Dennett
Wassail returns to Midsomer Norton
MIDSOMER Norton Community Trust and Midsomer Norton Town Council are joining forces to host a free wassail event in the town on Saturday, February 12th. Unlike previous years, the wassail ceremony itself will take place in the recently-created Town Park. Official proceedings will commence at 1pm in the Assembly Room at the town hall with the crowning of the wassail king and queen before people taking part are led in procession to the park. From 1-3.30pm, there will be a wassail mini-market in the park, with traditional rural arts and crafts, local produce, felting and corn weaving demonstrations, ice cream and a hog roast. Traditional dancing and music will be provided by the Cam Valley Morris Men and the Village Band. l The day will begin with a children’s craft workshop in the town hall from 10.30am – places are bookable via midsomernortoncommunitytrust.co.uk
Flashback to 2020 and Midsomer Norton’s last wassail royalty PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
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INTERNET
Keeping up to date
THERE comes a time when any computer device begins to show its age. It seems slower than it used to be and struggles with that great new app. The battery does not last as long and the screen does not seem as clear as the ones in the adverts. Perhaps that new model with a better With NICK camera, one which can control your SPARKS heating, opens your garage door and talks back to you with a kindly voice becomes a temptation. Then suddenly the day arrives, its operating system is no longer supported, and the machine is incapable of running the new well-advertised replacement operating system. It will become more vulnerable due to undiscovered flaws not being patched and therefore, open to malicious attacks. It is less likely to run the latest software efficiently as it is not being kept up to date. When that happens, the pundits tell you to continue using the device at your peril. For an example, it has been announced that this will be happening to some older machines using Windows 10 which will only be supported until 2025 following the launch of its successor Windows 11 that those older machines may not run even now. So can the life span of a machine be measured at time of purchase? The answer is only approximately by rule of thumb and reputation of the manufacturer. What applies now may not apply when the next new model or operating system comes out, you just need to do some research (using your favourite internet browser) close to the time of your purchase. You must weigh up the choice of paying the full price when the device comes out against a discounted one later: the same device with possibly a shorter lifespan, although it will probably have better performance and features than your existing one in any case. Just another choice to be made from a multitude of others when buying some expensive “smart” new thing in the January sales . . . (and perhaps just before you Google “The most valuable companies in the world” to try it out and wonder how many noughts there are in a trillion?) Happy New Year.
This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. I.T. for the Terrified <it4ttcvh@gmail.com> Submitted for IT for the Terrified by Nick Sparks. Although we have now ceased our one to one tuition, a number of us will continue with this column under the heading "IT for the Terrified" to keep the name alive for the time being PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
CROSSWORD
The Mendip Mindbender
ACROSS 1 What is the first ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ that was designated so in 1956 (8,5) 8 Andrew was known to stray (anag.) (6) 9 Musical instructions meaning ‘with each note detached’ (8) 10 Recollection of past events (12) 11 Utilize the sound of sheep (3) 13 The skin of a rabbit (5) 15 Go back over the route just taken (7) 17 Tympanic membrane (7) 18 Bunch of flowers, bouquet (5) 21 Footwear for use in the snow (3) 22 Husband, wife and lover were surprised to see to a margin develop (6,1,5) 25 Rewards by airlines for frequent passengers travelling with them (3,5) 26 As a whole (2,4) 27 Gathering of people who share a common inquisitiveness (8,5)
DOWN 2 An egg goes bad (5) 3 A white ant (7) 4 The main protein in milk and cheese (6) 5 Which town has a market cross dating back to 1795 that was demolished by a drunk motorist and is again looking like new again (9) 6 Artist who painted Well’s Cathedral in 1791 complete with cricketers using curved bats (1.1.1.6) 7 Boxer (3) 10 Happen again (5) 12 In which town would you find the Fleet Air Arm Museum? (9) 14 Return to usual working condition (9) 16 A very deep gorge or chasm (5) 19 A division of hairs (7) 20 A sweet liqueur made with blackcurrants (6) 23 Putin troubles will find the opening (5) 24 A quote from one of 11 across (3) Clues in italics are cryptic By greendandelion
This month’s solution can be found on page 72
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MENDIP TIMES
St. Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance!
With KATY BEAUCHAMP
For some, romance will be in the air; but everyone can celebrate St. Valentine’s Day by cooking and sharing some lovely dishes with friends and family.
SOMERSET CIDER MUSSELS
Mussels are a great sharing dish, they are cheap (£3 per kilo of the finest ones) and taste lovely served with some delicious bread to mop up the juices.
Who says the French are the only romantics – these mussels are cooked with love in Somerset cider!
INGREDIENTS (serves 2 as a main meal or four as a sharing plate) 1 kilo mussels 4 chopped shallots 20gm butter 1 crushed garlic clove 150mls cider 100mls double cream Salt and pepper To serve Chopped chives Bread
METHOD If any of the mussels are open before they are cooked, give them a tap on the counter and they should shut (discard any that don’t). Fry the shallots in the butter for a few minutes, then add garlic and salt and pepper, give it a stir, tip in the mussels and pour in the cider and cook on a high heat for 5-7 minutes, (until the mussels have opened). Turn the heat off and stir in the cream. Tip in to a shallow dish and sprinkle over the chives and serve with some lovely bread!
FOOD & DRINK
BROCCOLI AND CHEESE “FALAFELS” An authentic taste of the Middle East – with a twist!
These aren’t authentic falafel as they don’t contain chickpeas - but they do taste delicious and share some of those aromatic Middle Eastern flavours! METHOD Cook the broccoli until tender, blitz with a handheld blender or in a food processor whilst hot and add the remaining ingredients. It needs to be like a stiff dough consistency. If you are using stuffing mix you may need to add some more boiling water. With wet hands, shape the mixture into 15 walnut-sized balls. Place them on a baking tray lined with foil and bake at 160°C for 25mins. Serve warm in the split pitta bread, spoon in some dip, and add salad. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS
(for 15 balls, three per serving) 300g broccoli 100g herby breadcrumbs (or a packet of stuffing mix) 10g grated Parmesan Juice and zest of 1 lemon Small bunch of coriander finely chopped I tsp each dried cumin, coriander, and garlic To serve Pitta bread Salad Garlic and onion readymade dip
CHOCOLATE ORANGE SHORTBREAD HEARTS
This recipe makes 20 biscuits. They are delicious plain, but I decorated mine with pink butter icing, white chocolate, sprinkles and nuts. Just do what you fancy!
Share these biscuits with the people you love
PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
METHOD Mix everything together, adding the orange juice last, as you may not need it all. You should have a stiff but pliable dough. Roll out the dough and cut out whatever shape biscuits you want. Bake at 160°C for 25 mins, then leave to cool completely before you decorate them.
INGREDIENTS 140g butter 70g icing sugar I heaped tablespoon cocoa powder 200g plain flour Zest and juice of one orange
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MENDIP TIMES
Farmers markets back in action CATERING LEAVE IT TO US
• Parties , Christenings Corporate events • Cakes – Bespoke Celebration Cakes • Dinner, Birthday Parties • Wine Tastings
SHOP
CAFE
• Homemade Cakes & Desserts • Deli, Homemade Pies & more • Breakfast & Lunch Menu • Dog Friendly • We welcome Cyclists
WINE
• Basic Groceries • Great selection of Wine, • Local Milk, Bread & Sparkling wine & Spirits other products • Wine Tastings – • Gifts & Newspapers Private, Corporate , • Meal Deals and Takeaways Charity
01761 240820
themendippantry@gmail.com THE MENDIP PANTRY THE STORES, HIGH STREET, CHEWTON MENDIP BA3 4LJ
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Louise Hall, from Somerset Farmers Markets (left), with new market co-ordinator Jodie Standerwick
FEBRUARY sees the return of monthly Somerset Farmers Markets to Axbridge, Burnham-on-Sea, Keynsham, Frome and Midsomer Norton. Meanwhile, the Nailsea farmers market and The Frome Independent market will restart in March, being much larger events. It’s now 23 years since SFM established its first market in Somerset and its remit remain as strong – if not stronger – as ever: the not-for-profit organisation’s support for small, family-run farms and enterprises who embrace welfare-friendly and environmentally-sound principles continues to grow as it provides sales outlets for around 100 local farmers, growers, beekeepers, cheesemakers, bakers, foragers, cidermakers, vineyards and craftspeople. The Axbridge and Burnham events also have a new markets co-ordinator who is no stranger to running stalls there herself. Jodie Standerwick, who lives in Portishead, runs her own micro-greens business called Leafy Greens Micro Farm, and also trades at Keynsham and Nailsea. Jodie’s role is not only to attract and support stallholders but also to encourage more shoppers to visit regularly. For details and to sign up to the SFM e-newsletter for each market, visit: www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk
Regular Monthly Markets 1st Saturday: Axbridge & Midsomer Norton 1st Sunday: The Frome Independent 2nd Saturday: Keynsham & The Frome Cheese & Grain 3rd Saturday: Nailsea & Crewkerne
Visit Last Friday of the month: www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk Burnham-on-Sea for dates PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
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WILD FOOD
A different kind of rush
With ADRIAN BOOTS
NOW the Christmas and New Year rush is over, it’s time to work off some of the excesses of the holiday season and try a different kind of rush. Watercourses are a great place to look for wild food but be careful – standing in wet, cold, muddy and usually rather odorous abodes comes with a health warning. Not least when it overtops your wellies – you just can’t get rid of that
smell. I’m not sure I’m selling this too well which is probably a good thing given the dangers of falling in or leaving beloved footwear behind. Still, winter is a tricky time to find any wild food yet reedmace (aka bulrush) provides much-needed starchy carbohydrates and in huge quantity at that. Find them along rivers, streams and ditches etc (you’ll need landowner permission of course) and domestic ponds. If you don’t have a pond of your own why not try a friend’s, just remember to ask first otherwise you might be left wondering why you are no longer getting invitations to dinner parties. Sorry Dave. Great reedmace or bulrush (Typha latifolia) is a tall erect perennial grass up to 2.5m in height. The leaves are in two rows with the stem enclosed in leaves. The stem is completely round in cross section up to 4cm thick. It’s found in watercourses and damp, wet areas. Technically it’s not a bulrush at all, but it is now accepted as an alternative common name. For the forager, the large erect maces or cat-tails waving in the wind give away its location, making finding them that much easier. Cut the young shoots in spring, pull up roots in winter – it tastes good eaten raw or cooked. Chop into chunks and roast with your favourite veg or have it stir fried as a replacement for bamboo shoots. It can also be baked dry and pulverised to make flour which can be added to soups and stews. When collecting from very slow moving/still watercourses it’s best not to tempt fate, so it is crucially important to peel off the outer layers and wash well in fresh potable water before consumption. Otherwise the only rush you will be concerned with will be the one to the smallest room in the house. Adrian Boots is a Landscape Ecologist, Wild Food Forager and Adventure Activity provider. You can visit his website: www.gowildactivities.co.uk to learn more about wild food foraging and activities you can do with him on the Mendip Hills.
FOOD & DRINK
GARDEN FOOD
Red cabbage
THE vegetable garden is getting a bit sparser now as we head towards the hungry gap. Luckily our red cabbages have done really well this year, making nice tight heads, and we'll still be harvesting them for a while yet – it seems that red cabbages are generally With JAKE regarded to keep better than their white WHITSON relatives, perhaps because of the protective anthocyanins which give them their colour. The same seeds will produce different coloured cabbages depending on the PH of the soil – with acidic soils producing redder cabbages, neutral soils purple and alkaline soils white or green cabbages. In fact the juice of a red cabbage can be used as a PH indicator, giving the same colour variations when dropped into acid, neutral or alkaline liquids. I really love veg like this that is actually alive in the winter rather than preserved or frozen. The heads hold a great deal of sweetness and are fantastically crunchy, great both raw and cooked. Most commonly I'll throw some chunks of cabbage through the grating attachment on our food processor, toss the grated cabbage with salt and cider vinegar, let it sit for a minute to soften and enjoy it as a salady side with bread and cheese. When I've got a bit more time on my hands, I really enjoy making Kåldolmar, which are the Swedish version of cabbage rolls. To make it, first carefully remove as many outer leaves from a cabbage as you'd like finished rolls – I usually make about 20. Then blanch them in salted water for a few minutes until soft and drain them. As they are cooling remove stems from the leaves and chop them small (leaving the leaves whole with a v shaped piece removed). Finely chop an onion, and sweat this down in a little butter, until soft and golden, along with the chopped cabbage. Let this mixture cool, then mix it with a handful of breadcrumbs, an egg and about 500g mince (ideally a 50/50 mixture of beef and pork, but either will do on its own). Lay out the cabbage leaves one by one and add a tic-tac shaped handful of filling onto each before rolling them up into little packages like dolmades. Brush them with a little melted butter and roast in a hot oven for 20-30 minutes until cooked through and a little crispy. Lovely served with mashed potatoes and gravy. Jacob Whitson is a chef, food writer and smallholder – he divides his time between the Mendips and Pembrokeshire.
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 23
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MENDIP TIMES
(
g p y
y
)
A number that’s lucky for some
TUESDAY, March 1st marks the 13th year since Dawn and Mike Corp and their family took over the Waggon and Horses at Doulting Beacon and they can’t thank their good fortune enough! Not only is it an historic coaching inn on Mendip, but the freehouse is also the family home. Having battled through lockdown and Dawn suffering an unrelated illness before Christmas, the family decided to reduce the Waggon’s opening hours. But, from early February, the inn will once again be open every lunchtime and from Wednesdays to Saturdays in the evening. Dawn said: “We thought it was time to start to get back to normal and February seemed like a good month when spring is on the horizon.” When spring does arrive, the Waggon boasts a splendid and secure walled garden – a real suntrap – and Dawn and Mike will soon reopen their caravan park behind the inn. There are plans for an anniversary celebration at some point in the coming months – in aid of charity – and its popular motorbike and classic car meets will also return. The Waggon is the meeting venue for the East Somerset Riding Club and local companies such as Mendip Tippers have been there for a get-together – reunions, whether school or business, are something which Dawn and Mike are keen to encourage.
A freehouse at the heart of Mendip Dawn, Mike and the team welcome you to their friendly freehouse on the Mendips Open every lunchtime from Mon, Feb 7th and Weds-Sat evenings from Weds, Feb 9th Fantastic home cooked food, including our famous traditional Sunday roasts Monday Madness Specials – £6! (exc. bank holidays)
Old Frome Road, Doulting Beacon, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4LA Tel: 01749 880302 • E-mail: waggon.horses09@gmail.com www.waggon-horses-pub.business.site PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
FOOD & DRINK
Paw-fect news for food festival
FOOD and drink festival organisers eat:Festivals are celebrating after hearing that they are finalists in the Dog Friendly Business of the Year category at the 2022 Bristol, Bath & Somerset Tourism Awards. Bev and Sarah Sarah Milner Simonds, from the Burnham-on-Sea not-for-profit social enterprise, said: "We think this is a paw-fect start to the new year and really wag-ficient news. We work really hard to make our one-day food and drink festivals welcoming for the whole family and that includes four-legged members too." Co-organiser Bev Milner Simonds added: "We have always made sure we are dog friendly but this year we enhanced experience by having a dog ‘concierge’ on hand to welcome pets, publishing local dog walks, working in partnership with local dog businesses to increase our number of water bowl spots and having Pooch Paws-Points dotted throughout the festival with seating for owners to take a breather." eat:Festivals find out if they have won gold, silver or bronze on Thursday, February 17th. Meanwhile, they are working hard on their plans for the 2022 season of events.
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ARTS & ANTIQUES
Forthcoming sales at the Mendip Auction Rooms THE first of the bi-annual Sporting, Fine Wines and Spirits auctions at the Mendip Auction Rooms will take place on March 31st. Always a popular and entertaining event, lots range from high value whiskies and wines, to shooting and fishing equipment, with decorative items of taxidermy and sporting memorabilia offering something of interest to any buyer from town or country. Whilst all sporting equipment, whether course or fly-fishing rods, old and new, or shotguns, rifles and accessories, always find a buyer, sporting memorabilia still catches the eye. Sporting memorabilia originally developed out of the gentleman’s sporting pursuits in the 19th century, and there isn’t a sport or team today that does not offer its fans some form of souvenir. This can take the form of trophies, events paraphernalia, autographs, and more, and it is a form of collecting that is accessible to every budget and a good
starting place for the budding collector. Synonymous with Scotland, whisky led the way in the last Sporting, Fine Wines and Spirits sale in September with a Macallan-Glenlivet selling for £6200 and other examples taking up a number of the top selling lots in the auction. Although spirits and fine wines from all countries attract investors from around the world, according to the Knight Frank Rare Whisky 100 Index, whisky was the best performing collectable of 2018 with a consistent rise in value for rare and maturing bottles. Whether you have been doing dry January, or any other month, the trend will no doubt continue, making it a good collectable to sell as well as invest in. The Sporting, Fine Wines and Spirits auction this coming March will once again offer a variety of items for every enthusiast. For a free valuation of items for this or any other sale, please contact the team at the Mendip Auction Rooms.
Contact the team at Killens on 01749 840770 or email enquiries@mendipauctionrooms.co.uk for further assistance
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 25
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MENDIP TIMES
Not on the high street
THE Somerset Guild of Craftsmen gallery most definitely isn't part of the High Street in Wells - that's not only a statement of geographic fact but also a reflection of what you can expect when you explore this hidden gem. The guild has now been based in Wells for around five years and can be found “through the arch” next door to Pickwicks, off Broad Street. The work in the gallery is all produced by members and reflects the skill and passion of the craftsmen and women who make up the guild. A strong sense of purpose and pride pervades the place and the energetic manager, Tanith Tothill, is a constant source of information and suggestions if you are seeking that special “something”. It's been mentioned here before that commission work is welcome and that is another aspect to being “not on the High Street”. The SGC is a place where makers often discuss the art of the possible through knowledge of their materials and skills. Perhaps you are a maker yourself? Part of the guild’s “mission” is to encourage excellence and progression in craftwork; application to become a member is very much welcomed. The guild is a unique part of Somerset and a unique institution in Wells so it's well worth taking a small detour and seeing just what you can discover. By Chris Walters
Mendip Times reduces Visit: https://www.somersetcraftguild.co.uk/ travel costs Artists paint on 100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business
Compton Dando Pictured (l to r) David Turner, Jean Harnaman, Jan West and Pam Williams
PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
COMPTON Dando Art Group members are still meeting weekly and say they really look forward to their Wednesday mornings despite Covid problems. Art group leader, Sonia Priest, said: “Although painting is very much part of the morning, the social aspect is extremely important particularly during these times.”
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Forget the attic – check out the kitchen!
YOU will no doubt have heard the expression beloved of antiques television programme makers of finding a “fortune in your attic”. Well how With many of us would CHRIS YEO expect to find a fortune in our kitchen cupboards? The kitchen has long been the centre of domestic life but while traditional furniture, such as dressers and tables, has long been desirable, kitchen equipment was for many years overlooked by collectors. That is until recently. Time moves on and, today, the field of kitchen antiques is one of the most popular areas for collectors. Practically anything involved in cooking or food preparation, from cast iron cauldrons to copper jelly moulds, can fall into the category of kitchenalia. As many pieces have now been superseded by modern, power-driven
equipment, antique or vintage items such as ribbed wooden butter pats, copper kettles, pierced ladles to skim cream, kitchen scales or flat irons, have gained a new life based on their decorative appeal. Cornishware – the famous blue and white striped pottery that has been cheering up kitchens since the 1920s – has nothing to do with Cornwall. It is, in fact, made in Derbyshire. It got its name from the blue resembling the colour of the sea and the white the tips of the waves on a bright Cornish summer’s day – how poetic. Over the course of almost a century, hundreds of different Cornishware designs have been produced – from teapots and dinner plates, to rolling pins and storage jars. Decorated in smart black lettering with the name of the intended contents – from Almonds to Soap Flakes and everything in between - these jars are eagerly collected today. “Tea” and “Coffee” are, unsurprisingly, the most common and sell for just a few
ARTS & ANTIQUES
pounds. More unusual names make more – “Custard Powder” will set you back around £100. Occasionally, however, a previously unrecorded name – or a misspelling – will appear and that’s when collectors get really excited. A small spice jar marked “CARAWAY SEEDS” normally sells for £50. Last year, one mistakenly marked “CAROWAY SEEDS” sold for £1,300.
Chris Yeo is a valuer at Clevedon Salerooms and regular expert on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow Please visit their website www.clevedonsalerooms.com for more details
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 27
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MENDIP TIMES
EVENTS
Bishop Sutton wassail
MORE than 200 people attended Bishop Sutton’s wassail, which raised funds for the village school’s PTA. Members provided hot dogs and mulled cider and wine. Somerset Morris got the event started before the parade to the orchard. The event was hosted by Abi and Ali Pearson.
Leading the procession Green Man Nick Warbrick, Wassail Queen, Grace Blannin, aged ten, and MC Colin Emmett
Fun in the orchard
Toasting the tree
Somerset Morris entertained the crowd PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
The shooting party (l to r) Paddy McKenna, Del Dowling and Ali Pearson
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Fun run helps hospice
A SMALL group of friends who are all vintage tractor enthusiasts have made a donation to Dorothy House Hospice after meeting for a run around Mendip. Organised by Rob Uphill, the annual get-together is deliberately a low-key affair with the friends choosing to support a different charity each year. The drivers had breakfast at Priddy Good Farm Shop before they headed off down Ebbor Gorge then towards Glastonbury and the Levels. Rob (left) in a 1970s German-built Deutz Intrac and Gary, on a Fordson Dexta, leave Priddy Green
Rob Uphill (centre) with (l:r) Gary Haberfield, Mark Hillman, Nigel Perkins and John Dally
The friends gather on Priddy Green before heading to Ebbor Gorge
A walk on the mild side
Mark on his Fordson Super Major
AROUND 60 walkers – and almost 30 dogs – enjoyed a New Year’s Day ramble around the Faulkland and Norton St Philip area, raising £660 for Dorothy House Hospice.
Despite early heavy rain, the weather stayed mild for the 5.4-mile walk organised by Rich Taylor, of Writhlington, in memory of his late wife Kate.
The walkers prepare to set off from the car park of the Tucker’s Grave Inn
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 29
(Photograph courtesy of Ben Adams)
CHARITIES
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MENDIP TIMES
Festive fun boost for dementia care
Read Agri fundraiser
MEMBERS of the Inner Wheel Club of Wells have presented a cheque to their organisation’s district chairman for her nominated charity helping people with dementia and their families. Wells club president Liz Hamblin is The money pictured (left) presenting Pam with a was raised at cheque the club’s Christmas lunch at the Cheese Yard Café at West Horrington. Pam Brewster, the district chairman and a member of the Inner Wheel Club of Frome, later visited the Wells club to talk about her support for Dementia Care and her other activities.
Hospice to open new centre
WESTON Hospicecare is set to open a flagship superstore and donation centre to generate funds to support caring for people with life-limiting conditions. The new site will be based at the former Hyundai car showroom on Searle Crescent opposite Waitrose and Toyota in Weston-super-Mare. The charity currently coordinates its retail operation from a depot in Lynx Crescent near Hutton which has no function to trade. The new, larger, site will allow trade and donation operations to take place from one self-sufficient site PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
THE recent fundraiser held by Read Agri at Wanstrow raised £1,100 which was split between Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and The Farming Community Network.
Helping the homeless
SOMERSET Morris presented a cheque to BillyChip, the charity set up to support rough sleepers, which is expanding rapidly across the country. It was presented to founder Meg AbernethyHope during the wassail at Bishop Sutton, where she lives.
simultaneously. Director of retail, Emma King, said: “This is such an exciting project and it’s due to such fantastic support of our customers and donors that we’re able to take this calculated step to grow our retail operation. “The pandemic has hit the hospice’s retail arm especially hard and after much deliberation, planning, forecasting and risk assessing we have decided this is the solution to kick start a sustainable source of income for our treasured hospice. “We cannot wait to open for trading and see our wonderful supporters enjoy
visiting the store while supporting their local hospice.” The hospice plans to open the new superstore in mid-February with the date to be confirmed. The charity is appealing for members of the public to consider becoming volunteers to help staff the store. The hospice is also able to accept more than usual donations at their current stores to stock the superstore for opening. The new site will have a drive-through donation centre, parking and a community outreach room so supporters can learn about the work of the hospice.
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CHARITIES
Edie’s special Christmas present
A FUNDRAISING tractor run has meant that Edie Brown, from Chew Stoke, can now have the Vanraam wheelchair bike which her parents had wanted for her. It was back in 2016 when we first reported on Edie, a remarkable nine-year-old, who despite battling with many health issues and disabilities, loves life and loves going out and about with her family. Due to her disabilities this is very difficult. The family originally approached the Rotary Club of
Three of Santa’s helpers Daniella Bryant, Hannah Pearce and Lynne Wilmot
Jubilee grants
QUARTET Community Foundation has launched a fund to provide grants to help West of England communities celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. It is one of the network of community foundations across the UK distributing the Arts Council England £5million Let’s Create Jubilee Fund. The grants of up to £10,000 per project will support community and voluntary organisations to develop creative and cultural activities. The deadline for applications is February 28th. Details: https://quartetcf.org.uk/grant-programmes/artscouncil-england-lets-create-jubilee-programme/
Edie's sleigh ride
Chelwood Bridge to help them get a special walker for her and the club unanimously agreed to help, purchasing the Hart walker in April 2016. This changed life for Edie, who took to the walker straight away. Her ability to move when and where she chose was a real thrill for her. After that Edie used the unit on an almost daily basis and in February 2017 she stunned everyone by taking some independent unaided steps. Last October the Rotary club were approached again by Edie’s parents for help in providing the specialist Vanraam wheelchair bicycle. They agreed to organise crowdfunding for the bike, which costs £8,000, through a GlobalGiving platform, but didn’t quite reach the target. So Carrianne Summers and her friends decided to try and raise more funds by organising a tractor run on Christmas Eve. Carrianne said: “It was a total honour to be able to raise funds on the annual Christmas Eve tractor run this year for the beautiful Edie and her family. Such a happy little girl. Of the £1433.40 raised every single penny will go towards Edie’s wheelchair. We thank everyone who braved the weather to come out and see us and to all those who donated.” Rotary Club member, Rob Taylor, said: “With their help the family now have sufficient funds to buy this essential equipment for Edie.” Edie’s mum, Sharon, said: “Thank you so much to Carrianne Summers and Gracie Dursley for organising this and to Rotary for their support. Edie had the best Christmas Eve and sleigh ride and thank you to all who came and donated. We feel incredibly lucky to live in such a supportive community.”
Chance to run the Bath Half
MENTORING Plus is appealing to the local community to fill the last remaining places on their team for the Bath Half which is taking place on March 18th. This is the charity’s biggest fundraiser of the year and with community fundraising taking a huge hit last year the funds raised from this event are vital. The main event is a sell-out and final registrations are January 31st. Details: Becki or Jenny at community@mentoringplus.net
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 31
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MENDIP TIMES
Here’s to a great year!
MORE than 100 people gathered in Kilmersdon for the return of the village’s traditional wassail celebrations. After processing to the community orchard for the first ceremony, music and dancing by Cam Valley Morris, everyone then gathered around the trees in the garden of organisers Martin and Frances Horler for a second wassail, followed by the burning of an ashen faggot.
Wassail queen Bella Whitelaw-James and master of ceremonies Martin Horler with The Village Band and Cam Valley Morris
Singing the traditional wassail song
Bella pours cider around the base of a tree in the community orchard Dancers took Bella by surprise by lifting her into the air
Martin and Bella with Alban Bunting who, as the eldest person present, had the honour of burning the ashen faggot
Cam Valley Morris
PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Firing shotguns to ward off evil spirits in the garden of the Old School House
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EVENTS
Wassail was a sell-out
A CAPACITY crowd enjoyed a wassail evening at the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury. Tickets sold out well in advance of the event, led by master of ceremonies Les Davis, which saw Tyler-Mae Saunders crowned wassail queen.
Ceilidh and dance band Rapscallion in the tithe barn
Wasssail queen Tyler-Mae Saunders
Dancing in the magnificent barn
Singing the traditional wassail song in the orchard
Wassailers Andy and Karen Shaw, of Glastonbury
Farmer Bob Clapp fires a shotgun to ward off evil spirits
Issey Emeney from Rapscallion (left) with wassail queen Tyler-Mae and MC Les Davis MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 33
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MENDIP TIMES
Charity needs help
THE charity Physionet collects discarded adult and children’s disability equipment throughout the UK. After cleaning and checking, they send it to developing countries, mainly in 40ft containers. Recent milestones were the loading of the 15,000th wheelchair for Zimbabwe and the dispatch of the 120th container in December to Fiji. They are opening a new hub in the Bristol area and urgently need a barn or store south of the city. Suppliers in the area include the Red Cross, Bath RUH and Bristol Waste.
P & C Logs
Details: www.physionet.org.uk
Rubbish problems?
Call Phil on 07734 098323, or Colleen on 07785 250033 or on Evenings 01934 741941 Friendly prompt service from Phil & Colleen at their farm in Charterhouse Quality seasoned beech and ash hardwood, chopped and split into a variety of load options (with free delivery).
PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Call Nigel: 07720 756621
BARN OR STORE WANTED
The charity Physionet urgently needs a barn or store in the (North) Mendip Times area. • Ideally 100-150 sq. metres • Weatherproof, van accessible. • Access to power and water. Please contact Sarah 07970 643757 Email: physioinetsw@gmail.com
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Farming divorces can often be complicated and difficult to resolve
DIVORCING spouses have claims in relation to income, capital, property and pensions, as well as claims against any business owned by either party to the divorce (which includes a family farm). The early exchange of financial disclosure can often prevent delay and legal costs from escalating. The integral role that the farm has played within the family in generations past, along with the role that it is intended to play in those to come, can present complicated legal challenges when a member of the family gets divorced. In many cases, it may be that the farm, its buildings and surrounding land provided a family home and an income for the divorcing couple and their children for the duration of the marriage; however, they may not actually own any of these assets. Unlike ‘typical’ divorces, in farming divorces, it is common for the parents of a divorcing spouse to own the farm and associated assets. In some cases, older farming generations may have taken steps to ensure that the farm is bequeathed to any bloodline (frequently male) grandchildren upon the death of their grandparents, thereby skipping a generation Whether or not these decisions are taken in anticipation of marital breakdown within the family, they have a significant impact on the ability of the court to satisfy the
parties’ financial claims arising from the marriage. So what are your options? In a divorce, particularly farming divorces, there is never just one way to skin a cat. At the outset, you should be aware that going to court is not your only option. Often parties to a divorce can negotiate an agreed financial settlement with the assistance of solicitors without the need to involve the court. Court proceedings should be seen as a last resort. However, an application to the court may well be the best way to hold unreasonable parties to account or ensure co-operation with the process. Prevention is better than the cure. In many cases, a farm has been in the family for generations and the intention is for the future generations to inherit and run the farm. If you are seeking to preserve the farm for the next generation, it is advisable to ensure that any family member who is set to inherit the farm (be it children, siblings, nieces or nephews, etc.) enters into a pre-nuptial agreement prior to their marriage. A pre-nuptial agreement can record how the family farm should be treated upon any future divorce. As above, financial claims can be brought against the farm by a nonowing, non-bloodline spouse. To prevent financial claims being asserted against the farm upon divorce, before any interest in
BUSINESS
the farm is passed on, the farm-owner should insist upon the next generation entering into a valid pre-nuptial agreement that specifically ring-fences the intended farmer’s interest in the family farm prior to that person’s intended marriage. If the horse has already bolted, and the next generation of farmer has already got married, there is always the option for the spouses to enter into a post-nuptial agreement to preserve the family farm in the event of a future divorce. It is important that each party to a prenuptial or post-nuptial agreement seeks independent legal advice in relation to the terms of the agreement.
EDWARD LYONS
Email: enquiries@lyonslaw.co.uk Website: www.lyonslaw.co.uk Telephone: 01275 332168 An established and progressive law firm providing a personal and cost-effective legal service for commercial and individual clients.
l Family & Divorce Law l Co-habitation disputes l Inheritance disputes l Wills and Living Wills l Powers of Attorney l Administration of Trusts l Property – sales and purchases OFFICES AT: Chew Magna 01275 332168
Westbury-on-Trym 0117 950 6506
Kingswood 0117 967 5252 MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 35
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MENDIP TIMES
Telephone: 07985 664433 Facebook: @J.T.A Services Email: j.t.a-waste@outlook.com Website: https://jtaservices.co.uk
Fully Licensed and Fully Insured Waste Carrier
Services include: Waste Collection and Disposal • Garden Maintenance Ground Works • White Goods Collection & Disposal Single Item Collection Ongoing Waste Management Demolitions
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Building a better future . . . in your garden!
JUST over 12 months ago, Laurence and Edward Pole launched Banwell Garden Buildings as a subsidiary of their joinery manufacturing business. Seeing a need for garden offices during the pandemic the two brothers realised they could use their CNC machinery to produce precision-made buildings as a set of parts which could be rapidly assembled on site. Laurence said: “The buildings were an immediate success. We initially thought that most people would want to use them for work but we were surprised to find that more than half our customers intend to use them for other purposes such as craft rooms, art studios, home gyms, music rooms, entertainment spaces and even therapy rooms. “We’ve developed our construction system so that we can provide completely bespoke buildings from a set of standardised components, rather like a giant Lego kit which keeps the cost down while improving quality.” Banwell Garden Buildings offer a complete service from initial consultation to a fully finished, ready to use building complete with electrics, heating and internal decoration. The buildings are fully insulated and double glazed and provide a room in the garden suitable for virtually any purpose you can imagine. Details: 01934 824092 www.avocetproducts.co.uk email laurence@avoeng.com
Bespoke garden buildings in traditional or contemporary style HOME OFFICE • STUDIO SPACE LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION • ADDITIONAL LIVING SPACE Please call or email for a no-obligation discussion of your requirements
www.avocetpoducts.co.uk/banwell/ email info@avocetproducts.co.uk Tel 01934 824092 PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
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Preparing for the VAT man
WELL, here we are in February already. The snowdrops have been out for a week or two in our garden and we are precariously close to seeing some daffodil buds opening. The nice thing about February (at least for accountants across the UK) is that Tax Return season is behind us now and we can begin to look forward to the next googly bowled at us all by HMRC… This time, it’s aimed at those small businesses which are VAT registered, but have a turnover of less than £85,000 per annum. Fortunately, there are people around who can help you to bat this problem safely away to the boundary. If you think I am labouring the metaphor a bit too much, well at least I feel that all my lost afternoons watching a certain Mr B playing village cricket as a teenager have not been wasted! Now, pretty much everyone in business will have heard of the Government’s initiative Making Tax Digital which requires businesses to report their VAT digitally, using only compatible software to HMRC every quarter. Until now, this has applied to larger businesses, but gradually the system has been rolled out through the ranks of small and medium sized enterprises (SME’s) until it has finally reached the smallest of those who are VAT registered. So, by April this year, 2022, every such business will be required to have registered for MTD, and will need to be reporting and paying into HMRC every quarter. Many of these very small businesses may not even use a computer to keep their accounting records, so, for them, this will be a major change. Now the good news is, that if you have such a business and don’t know, or particularly want to know how to register for MTD digitally, you almost certainly have someone in your life already who can help. It will come as no surprise that I
BUSINESS am talking about your accountant! By now, I should be very surprised if any accountant wasn’t already dealing with MTD for a clutch of clients. They will have been working alongside their slightly larger clients on this for several years, and will have had the chance to iron out many a glitch. This means that they should be able to help you meet your new obligations as painlessly as possible, without you needing to change the way you operate. Even if you want to go it alone, and take the time to do this yourself, it is worth talking to your professional before you start. Once again, I will suggest good organisation! In this case, it means starting now. Talk to your accountant and get some early idea of how much it will cost you to use their services and compare with the cost of setting yourself up with the necessary digital registration. I would always include costing for your time in this. So often, small business owners don’t recognise that their time is a cost to the business too. It’s also important to think about how much time you already spend on sorting out your accounts. Time, like money, doesn’t grow on trees! Just a warning note, if VAT payments are continually late under this scheme, you could find yourself having to pay a surcharge. So, if you are in doubt, get help! It may cost you more initially, but it is likely to be well worth your while in the longer run. So, I wish you well, and may you always be prepared for all the rules and regulations that you need to know about in business! Take care. Jane Bowe Probusiness
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 37
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Skincare business moves to larger premises GOATS of the Gorge has expanded its product range and moved into new premises at Fairseat Workshops in Chew Stoke. Founder Nick King, who started the company from his home in Felton, has now been joined by his sons Danny, aged 21, and Ricky, aged 32. Their range of natural skincare products are now reaching an international audience, having been praised by the NHS during the pandemic, with customers in the USA and Holland. As well as their online shop, they now have 100 outlets across England and three in Scotland. Most of our local farm shops, garden centres and village stores stock their products and big local companies like Yeo Valley are supporting them. It’s a remarkable success story which started when Nick, a former police officer, started making soap from goats’ milk from the Kerborne herd in Chew Stoke. He found the natural oils were very effective for people of all ages who suffer with eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. Bath bombs, lip balms, candles and lotions are among the many products, all hand-made, which they make from scratch from their own ingredients. These now also include buffalo milk from a farm in Yeovil
Nick, Ricky and Danny
and keratin extracted from alpaca fleeces from a herd at Tickenham. The new premises give Nick and his sons the space to expand production to meet the ever-growing demand from customers.
Filling the moulds
Goats of the Gorge Fairseat Workshops Chew Stoke BS40 8XF 01275 474162 sales@goatsofthegorge.com www.goatsofthegorge.com PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
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BUSINESS
Important changes to inheritance tax FROM January 1st 2022 HM Revenue & Customs have changed the reporting requirements in respect of deceased persons’ estates. Chartered Legal Executive Kat King discusses the changes and who will be affected. Previous legislation If an estate was classified as low value or exempt, then an “IHT205 Return of Estate Information” form needed to be completed and submitted to the Probate Registry. The requirements for an estate to be classed as excepted were, as follows: • The value of the estate was less than the Nil Rate Band Allowance (£325,000); • On the death of the surviving spouse, the value of the estate was less than 2x Nil Rate Band Allowance (£650,000); • The deceased left their whole estate, worth less than £1,000,000, to their spouse or civil partner, or to a charity; • The deceased held assets in a trust, worth less than £150,000; • Lifetime gifts made within seven years before they died did not exceed £150,000;
• The deceased person lived permanently outside of the UK, died abroad, and the value of their assets in the UK was under £150,000. What exactly has changed? From January 1st 2022 the following changes apply: • The requirement for completing the IHT205 form was scrapped for all estates classed as excepted; • The spousal/civil partner/charity limit for an excepted estate increased from £1,000,000 to £3,000,000; • The limit of the value of assets held in trust increased from £150,000 to £250,000; • The limit on lifetime gifts has increased from £150,000 to £250,000; • The new rules remove the excepted estate status for those living permanently outside of the UK. What does this mean for me? The estates of anyone who dies on or after January 1st 2022 will be affected by these changes if they are low value estates or exempt estates. The increase in limits will mean more estates will be treated as excepted
Kat King
estates and, as a result, the executor or administrator for the estate (Personal Representatives) will be required to complete less forms. However, it is still vital that the Personal Representatives understand the rules, complete the correct forms (and pay IHT when required), correctly record the estate information and keep records for the beneficiaries.
If you have any questions about the changes, please contact Kat King on 01749 341805 or email kat.king@mogersdrewett.com. We are here to help
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 39
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CAVING
Caving in winter
CHRISTMAS and the New Year celebrations have been and gone, but there will still be a few months of winter weather, With PHILIP which will affect our HENDY caving activities. Most of our annual meetings and dinners were held before Christmas. It was good to be able to meet and talk with other cavers, many of whom had not been seen for more than two years. It was also a time to remember “absent friends”, who either passed away during the epidemic, or through age or ill health decided not to risk joining a large gathering. Winter weather inevitably brings increased rainfall, as well as the possibility of ice and snow. High rainfall can cause certain caves to flood, as happened in October when five cavers became trapped by rising water in Eastwater Cavern at Priddy. The fire brigade were tasked with pumping the stream to divert it from the entrance and allow a party of cavers from Mendip Cave Rescue to enter and bring the trapped individuals to safety. While not particularly flood prone, it would have been advisable for the group to have sought local knowledge before entering the cave. There are plenty of caves on Mendip which do not flood. Accounts by early cavers often recall “epic” trips where high water or flash floods made progress difficult or even impossible. It was 11 years after Swildon’s Hole was first entered before water levels were low enough to allow a party to descend and explore beyond the Forty Foot Pot, and a further ten before Sump One was reached. There were, of course, other factors than the weather which slowed exploration, but in recent years caves have flooded much less frequently. One advantage to winter caving is that generally carbon dioxide levels in caves tend to be much lower. The presence of this gas at higher than normal levels was known for a long time in some caves, but the phenomenon seems to have become more widespread. Either that, or we are
Eastwater entrance
more aware of it. The source is a mystery; at one time it was thought to be caused by decaying vegetation, but farming practices on Mendip have not changed sufficiently to have made a difference. Of course, the action of slightly acidic water on limestone releases the gas, which is usually encountered in the deeper parts of the cave where there is less air movement. Levels tend to be higher in the summer months and some believe that changes in atmospheric pressure (and increased water flow) will flush the gas from the cave. Carbon dioxide causes fatigue, breathlessness and headaches (and in high doses can lead to death). It is possible that in the past, these symptoms were assumed to be due to lack of fitness or over-exertion. Dry caves generally have a stable temperature, but winter streams can reduce this substantially and in the past several rescues were necessitated by poorly-clad cavers getting wet and developing hypothermia. Long queues waiting to ascend the Forty Foot Pot in Swildon’s Hole and having to stand in the spray and draught, were particularly vulnerable. After the floods of 1968, an alternative route to the Forty opened up, and better, specialist clothing, has made hypothermia extremely rare. The biggest danger now appears to be the long walk back across the fields from
some of our more remote caves, while wearing wet gear in frosty or windy conditions. Many of us have had to stand in front of a fire, or be assisted in undressing, when our clothing has frozen on to us. This is where the caving huts come into their own, as nothing speeds the retreat from a cave in winter than the prospect of a hot shower, warm dry clothes, and the likelihood of a fellow caver providing a pot of tea and maybe a homemade cake. As well as sport caving, digging still continues, though most of us choose to put our efforts into some underground excavation rather than having to put up with the elements on the surface. Changing into digging kit usually takes place close to the site, which involves undressing in the open. We refer to this as “character-building”. Some digs have site huts for this purpose, while a kind farmer may offer the use of a barn. Afterwards, there is always the chance of a brew at the hut, or more likely, a pint and debrief at the local. Caving and digging takes place whatever the weather, although consideration has to be made regarding the risk of flooding. Some cavers prefer to go underground in winter, when higher water levels make for a more sporting trip. It is as well that the Mendip caves have enough variety to suit every caver, whatever their interest or ability.
Phil has been caving for more than 50 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and until his retirement was a caving instructor at Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves
PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
(Photographs by Phil Hendy)
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WILDLIFE
Meet the “mouse bird”
THIS month’s article comes with a challenge: before the whole woodland erupts into the spring frenzy of birdsong there is a chance to By CHRIS test your peripheral SPERRING MBE eyesight and your ability to pick up soft, high-pitched sounds. With the trees still leafless on your next woodland walk, take some time to stop, look around and listen for a specific sound. You will need to do this when other birds are not at their loudest, as the bird I am challenging you to find has a particularly faint contact call, comprising of three-five high-pitched notes grouped together, ending slower than they started. Keep your eyes peeled too, but not so much at the branches as the trunks of the trees. As you listen you will perhaps hear many different species making sounds, but your target takes time to tune into and identification is much easier if you also get to see the bird that’s making that sound. You are looking for a sudden, jerky movement moving up the trunk of a tree. At first you may well think it was just a trick of the light, but focusing on the moving object may just reveal one of our smallest and most inconspicuous birds. Your first impression may be that it’s actually a mouse, but closer inspection will show this neat little bird in all its superbly camouflaged glory. You will hopefully be watching the amazing treecreeper. Measuring just 12cm long and weighing as little as 12gms this is the only member of the treecreeper family we have in the UK. Its general plumage is light speckled brown on the upper parts giving way to a creamy-white underside from neck to tail. If you’re close enough, or have good binoculars, you will be able to observe the distinctive down-curved beak, which it uses to probe insects and spiders from beneath tree bark. They don’t sit still for long but watching them is quite captivating.
Take time to discover the intriguing treecreeper
They flutter erratically, almost butterfly-like, from one tree to the next, always landing near the base and making their way in short dashes up the trunk, listening and probing the bark as they go. As they make their way up the tree they encounter branches, which they may also inspect, often shuffling along the underside, completely upside-down. Like woodpeckers, they have a stiffened tail, which they use as a prop behind them as they walk up the vertical tree trunks, and wide splayed toes to grip the bark. Though this is an easily overlooked little bird, it is one of our great woodland characters and is probably more numerous than most people realise. Treecreepers are solitary; however, during cold snaps they often come together in large groups at night for warmth. I have heard tales of more than 20 huddled together in a blue tit box on a particularly cold night; a sight I have never seen myself. In South West England breeding takes place between March and June and in our region they can rear two broods in a season. Natural nest sites include cracks or holes in trees and crevices created by flaking bark. The special nesting box designed for them
mimics flaking bark and consists of a narrow, downward pointing triangular box. Treecreepers are mostly found in deciduous woods, but they also like coniferous forests and one introduced species of tree has become a particular favourite for nesting in; the Giant Sequoia (redwood tree) because of the nature of its bark and the crevices it creates. They are prone to nest predation, however, and those in small pockets of woodland, or near the woodland edge are most at risk from being discovered by their two main predators, woodpeckers and squirrels. Even if they do survive to fledge they are quite short-lived, averaging about two years, although the oldest was recorded at seven years. Do take up my challenging and let me know how you get on. If you have not encountered this bird before it’s quite a test, but February is a great time to find them before they disappear into the background of spring growth and bird song. l If anyone is interested in learning bird song identification, I’m hoping to start a course at the Community Farm near Chew Valley Lake. Please follow my Facebook pages to find out when this will be starting.
Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him on 07799 413918 or via Chris.Sperring@hawkandowltrsut.org.uk
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 41
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Amazing views on this walk around Tickenham
A CIRCLE of beautiful contrasts from Stone-Edge Batch near Tickenham, climbing up through fields and woods to the ridge and along “Millionaires’ Row”. This leads into Cadbury Camp Iron Age Hill Fort and then down to Tickenham Moor along the river. It is mostly fairly good underfoot so ideal for the winter months. Try and go when the weather is clear to enjoy to the full the panoramic views from Cadbury Camp. The first part is a steady climb up onto the ridge, but it is flat and downhill after that. There are a number of stiles. Great care has to be taken on the busy B3130 road for a very short distance at the start and the end.
With Sue Gearing PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
PARK: At the Star Inn on the main road in Stone-Edge Batch near Tickenham on the road between Nailsea and Clevedon. Thanks to the management who have given Mendip Times walkers permission to park in their large car park at the rear. Do try and go in and have refreshment (check for current opening and food serving times). START: From the pub turn left and cross this busy road when you can. Take great care. Stay close to the edge and after a couple of minutes reach a turning left where we need to go. It is safer to continue past the turn and then, near the bus stop, cross over where visibility is better. Go up the pavement on the side road a very short way.
1. FIELDS Find a footpath left and stile to cross. Go ahead and across the field and go through gates to cross the route where the electricity cables from Hinkley Point have been laid underground down the valley. Reach a stile with footpath marker and a gate and now bear right up the valley aiming between two woods – Round Wood on the left and Abbot’s Horn on the right. These were the fields and woods familiar to Les Davies my walking colleague who was raised in nearby Hale’s Farm, one of the oldest farms in the area.
Cross the stile by Abbot’s Horn wood and then head diagonally on up across the field towards woodland at the top and a stile.
2. OLD LANE Cross onto the old packhorse route from Clevedon to Bristol known as Old Lane. Turn right (ignore the footpath sign here) and follow the track. At fencing on the left take the path left up the side of the fence. This is a fairly steep climb that eventually brings you over a stile onto Cadbury Camp Lane, a private road and bridleway, which runs along the ridge between the North Somerset Levels and the Gordano Valley. 3. CADBURY CAMP LANE This was one of the ancient routes to Bristol, which travellers found preferable to the lower one in the valley. Building along here began mainly with smaller, chalet-style homes and over the years increasingly these have been expanded to become very imposing with large grounds. For a while it was named “Harley Street” as a number of the earlier residents were doctors. Another local name for it as it became more affluent was “Millionaires’ Row”. Among former residents were Carol Vorderman and Eddie Large. Turn left along the lane passing the variety of homes. Increasingly start to
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WALKING
get traffic noise from the parallel M5 in the valley. After about 0.8 miles, ignore a forked track going right. Stay on the Tarmac lane. Drop down and then continue on the rough track which leads up to Cadbury Camp.
4. CADBURY CAMP This is an Iron Age hill fort taken over by, or possibly built by, the Dobunni tribe who occupied this area. The name may mean "Fort of Cador" – Cado was the regional king or warlord in the middle to late 5th century. It is one of three sites in Somerset to include the Cadbury name, the others being Cadbury Castle, near South Cadbury and Cadbury Hill, also known as Cadbury-Congresbury. Nowadays it is managed by the National Trust. There is no access for vehicles. Go through the gate and up into the double-ditch fort. The views are really amazing. They take in the mouth of the Severn and the River Avon, the Sugar Loaf in South Wales, ports along the South Wales coast, the Foreland light in North Devon, Dunkery Beacon, the Quantock Hills, flat Holm and Steep Holm islands as well as Brean Down and the western end of the Mendip Hills. It also takes in Dundry Hill, and Lansdown Hill north of Bath. If you had been here on January 20th, 1607 at 9am, looking across Tickenham Valley, you would have seen the huge Tsunami which hit Somerset rushing up across the North Somerset Levels. Go through the fort and out the other side and then bend right paralleling the outer ditch. When you see a metal seven-bar gate over left in the fence
OS Explorer 154, Bristol West & Portishead, grid ref: 462718, postcode BS21 6SE • 4.2 miles, about 2.5-3 hours walking.
line, go towards it, and then before reaching it turn left and go down the grassy area parallel with the lane, dropping down. This is all part of the Open Access Area of the camp. On reaching an ash tree, fork down left across the grass and head for a narrow, wooded combe. Join the small path going down the combe. Go through a gate and carry on down.
5. TRACK Bear left, ignoring a path with steps on the right and continue on down the track, with Baye’s Wood left and open area right. Stay on the track, passing signs for the environmental work going on in the area. Reach an open area with two wooden seats. Pass an environmental round building over on
Cadbury Camp
the right, and further on reach a hedgelaying area. Arrive at a gate and follow the path to the right to the main road in Tickenham.
6. TICKENHAM It’s left now for a few yards. Cross and take the footpath on the right which leads down to the Land Yeo River. Once over the bridge, turn left along the river bank. Come to what was Tickenham Mill. It was established in the middle of the 12th century by canons of the Abbey of St Augustine and is now a private house with a bridge over a roaring sluice. Keep on. At a bridge and crossing footpath, turn right and go across towards Tickenham Church. Reach a road and continue ahead. 7. CHURCH At a junction, our route goes left on Church Road but you may like to go to Tickenham Church first which is on the right, with Tickenham Court at the side. The Court dates back to the start of the 15th century. One of its occupants was Eleanor Glanville who, very unusually for the time (C17th), became famous as a butterfly expert. The Glanville Fritillary is named after her. So now, go along Church Road which is pretty quiet. Reach the main road and, again, as at the start, great care is need as you turn right to get back to the Star. The Star, Tickenham, 01275 858836
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 43
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West Countryman’s diary
HALFWAY through January and moving into February. I’m conscious that I shouldn’t be wishing my time away, but how I want the spring to arrive! Someone told me the other day that it’s only six weeks off, which sounds almost do-able when I think about it. February always was a wet month and from With LES my days in the orchards that is well known DAVIES MBE to me! Thankfully these days I can pick and choose my days and don’t have to be out working in all weathers . . . I’ve done my time! There is always something else that needs attention, apart that is from writing the next column for Mendip Times. Things that need to be repaired, prepared and planned for. I have also been on the look-out for movement in the hedgerow and field as the odd “cheeky” plant pokes its head above ground. As always the primrose is in the vanguard and the snowdrops will be close behind. How different it feels when the sun shines and how we all feel uplifted by the warmth of some winter sunshine that lulls us into the hope that those six weeks may be shorter than expected. There is however the reality of wet and windy times still to come. On days when I don’t have to venture outside in such conditions, I won’t. Instead I can take in the warmth and comfort of my living room and the log burner. Wet Sundays take on whole new meaning as I sit in the warm glow, looking out of the window as the rain beats against the glass. Raindrops chase one another down the window in a race to the bottom. Some even join together to form a large droplet and crash through those smaller ones in their path like a phalanx of Roman soldiers pushing through the ranks of their advancing adversaries. While this drama unfolds, the beef is in the slow cooker, the potatoes and sprouts are peeled and prepared as the Sunday roast cooks itself and I sit back and relax! Until that is, the gentle crash of a burning log on the fire stirs me into the action (as much as it can on such days) and I pull myself off the settee to place a fresh one into the fire. We are conditioned to slow a little during the winter months, but today’s society is more urban based and less reliant on an agricultural, outdoor existence. Even those who work the land are better cared for these days. Tractor cabs have led to quieter and warmer (or cooler) working conditions. Older members of the Mendip Times readership will remember the day of open tractors, ex-military great coats with high collars, trousers and overall tucked into Wellington boots that we all used to turn the tops down on. Why? Was it in an attempt to look cool, or was it because they were too high? I always remember cold feet because there were no linings to the boot, no neoprene as there is today. However when the boots were holed you could put a patch over it and carry on. There were brands such as Stone Henge and Argyll and later a plastic boot by Nora. This was a dairyman’s boot with no lining at all and a criss-cross moulding on the sole that was designed for working on wet concrete. These became the height of fashion, light green in colour and no need to turn the tops down to look cool! I have no PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
OUTDOORS
regrets in taking on modern outdoor garments. Whereas classic will always be classic, everyday outdoor wear needs to be both warm and dry. All the wassailing will be out of the way, although I have a couple of late ones, which I have spoken to the Green Man about and received special dispensation! I am therefore hoping for a good blossom and pollination in April, but have to get through March yet. This month will see Candlemas day on the 2nd when traditionally new candles were installed in the church and Valentine’s Day on the 14th. You men out there with wives, partners or girlfriends will ignore this day at your peril! Looking at February, even Edith Holden in her book The Diary Of An Edwardian Country Lady can find very little to say about it compared to some other months in the year. However, the poet Hartley Coleridge wrote in February 1887: “One month is past, another is begun, Since merry bells rang out the dying year, And buds of rarer green began to appear, As if impatient for a warmer sun; And though the distant hills are bleak and dun, The virgin snowdrop, like a lambent fire, Pierces the cold earth with its green-streaked spire, And in dark woods, the wandering little one May find a primrose”.
Finally, I heard about the death of another Mendip character. Colin Patch from Stanton Drew, recently died in a London hospital following a heart operation. Colin was a long-served member of both the Mendip Ploughing Society and the North Somerset Vintage Tractor Society. Visitors to the shows will no doubt remember his tractor and trailer rides, which he had only recently given up. He worked right up until his recent admission to the Bath Hospital, where apparently he was delighted with the three meals and puddings he received every day. As always such a passing leaves a big hole with family and friends alike and a little more of Mendip history is laid to rest. This month’s picture is the snowdrop, “like a lambent fire”. I had to go and look this up… It means a soft radiance, a flame or light that touches the surface without burning it. So here it is!
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Gardening section.qxp_Layout 1 20/01/2022 16:10 Page 46
MENDIP TIMES
Let’s get growing – spring is on the way
OVER the past couple of years many folks have taken to growing some of their own vegetables and have reaped the rewards of harvesting and eating produce straight from the garden or allotment. During lockdowns, tending growing crops gave us a common purpose and put huge pressure on the seed With MARY suppliers to keep pace with the overwhelming PAYNE MBE demand. Things have got a bit easier in that respect now, but if you have been hooked by the bug of “growing your own” the momentum is sure to continue. The desire to avoid using pesticides, where possible, means we need to resort to cultural techniques such as, using fleece or very fine (Enviromesh) netting to avoid the scourge of all brassicas, the dreaded cabbage white caterpillar or carrot root fly. There is now a biological control for caterpillars involving a microscopic eelworm (nematode) that is sprayed on when the caterpillars are around. Do not order in advance, as it only has a two-week shelf life. It is also effective against the sawfly that defoliates your gooseberries and currants. Sadly, plant breeders have yet to come up with a cabbage, or indeed any brassica crop, resistant to the caterpillar, but they have been working very hard on our behalf to breed other vegetables that offer tolerance or resistance to a variety of pests and diseases. This does not involve genetic modification, simply good oldfashioned hybridisation. Mildews are a common disease on many plants and there are two types. Powdery mildews show as white mould on the upper surface of leaves and are a common problem in dry seasons, whereas downy mildews show on the underside of the leaves and are associated with damp conditions and there are many varieties that are now showing good resistance to these problems. The good news is that the mildew on your courgettes will not affect your peas or fruit trees. Fungal diseases tend to be “host specific” but may attack close relatives. To help guide you through the minefield of varieties, I thought it might be useful to know what is available that are pest or disease resistant, or at least tolerant. The price of seeds, like everything these days, seems to be on the rise, but if you belong to a garden or allotment club then it is worth pursuing a group discount. Most of the major seed companies do this and some give a 50% discount to club members. The club is given a discount code to pass onto its members and can despatch orders directly to each member rather than one member needing to collate and distribute the seeds. The plants raised from F1 seeds are very uniform, show hybrid vigour and tend to mature at the same time. Carrots always suffer from carrot fly, the larvae of which tunnel into the roots. “Flyaway” and “Resistafly” both give improved crops, and even better ones if you sow a sacrificial row of a traditional variety next to them. The soils in our area tend to be on the neutral to alkaline side so we rarely get problems with club root disease, but for those who do, then most types of brassicas now have varieties that show resistance. Cauliflower “Clapton” and “Zaragoza”, cabbage “Kilazol” and “Kilbaro”, and Brussel sprout “Crispus”. It is important to plant all brassicas very firmly, especially PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Brussels, which tend to produce loose sprouts unless very stable. Poor setting on runner beans is often a problem but is easily remedied by growing “Firestorm” “Moonlight” or “Snowstorm”. These have been bred with a touch of self-pollinating French bean blood, although they look and taste like runner beans. Tomatoes, both indoors and out, suffered from potato blight (they are very closely related) last season due to the warm humid weather conditions. So, this year I am trying “Crimson Crush”, which has been bred for resistance and claims to have good flavour. My favourite yellow cherry variety “Sungold” is prone to splitting, and a new variety “Honeycomb” is looking to replace it. If the spines on courgettes annoy you then try the spine free “Midnight”, or for mildew resistance go for F1 “Tosca”. Cucumbers can suffer from both mildews, but F1 “Passandra” is an all-female, small fruited type showing good resistance. If your leeks regularly suffer from leek rust try F1 “Sprintan” or F1 “Below Zero”. In the field of soft fruit you can now select gooseberry varieties resistant to mildew “Invicta” and “Pax” (virtually spine free). Blackcurrant “Ben Hope” shows resistance to big bud mite while raspberry “Glen Mor” is resistant to the dreaded raspberry root rot, while “Glen Moy” and “Glen Ample” have spine free canes. The latest breakthrough in plant breeding is to produce the Sunion, an onion that does not induce tears when being prepared. The breeders in New Zealand have used traditional techniques to select for a lack of the enzyme that leads to tears. At present, the seed for you to grow, is not available in the UK but some supermarkets will be selling these this year. Selecting varieties for resistance, or tolerance to a problem, does not mean that we can forget about rotating our crops. This will always remain best practice, not only for disease control, but it recycles nutrients in the soil, and enables leafy crops to be grown on the residue of the nitrogen fixing of pea and bean crops grown on the land the previous season. Finally, don’t be tempted to sow seeds too early, the light levels are too low, and later sowings always catch up.
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FEBRUARY GARDEN TIPS
GARDENING
• Sow geraniums, fibrous rooted begonias, antirrhinum, lobelia, petunias and impatiens. Make sure you use fresh compost, clean seed trays, some heat and fresh water! • Prune clematis this month. Those that flower after midsummer should be cut back hard (they only flower on newlygrown shoots) but those that flower before mid-summer should be more lightly pruned to about 75cm. Put plenty of well-rotted manure around your roses. • Harden off forced hyacinth bulbs after they have finished flowering. Then plant them out in the garden where they will thrive and flower for many years to come. • When snowdrops finish flowering lift crowded clumps, carefully divide them and replant immediately. Snowdrops hate to have their roots broken so be careful but this is the best time to plant them! • Don’t forget to buy seed potatoes and set them up to shoot – “chitting”. Early varieties like Rocket will benefit but later varieties will yield better too if encouraged into growth before planting out. If you have room for only one variety, grow Charlotte. • Continue to plant shallots. They prefer soil that hasn’t been used to grow onions, leeks or shallots for several years before and a well manured plot. Plant onion sets if warm. • Lots of vegetable plants can be sown now e.g. turnips, lettuce, broad beans, peas, stump rooted carrots, early cabbage, cauliflower and spinach in trays on the windowsill. These could be planted out later this month. • Raspberry canes and rhubarb can still be planted now.
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Perfect Pave, based on the Valley Line industrial estate, in Cheddar, has built an enviable reputation over the last 16 years for the quality of its work installing block paving and other landscaping products. Now founders Alex Howley and Simon Bethell have set up a new service run by James Starmer supplying these products to both the trade and public, as well as continuing to expand their installation team. e company now has contracts all over the South West and offers a wide choice of projects. It’s not only friendly, professional service that sets us apart, we can’t be beaten on price and ensure our prices beat those of builders’ merchants and garden centres.
Showroom open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri 8am-12noon Sat MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 47
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MENDIP TIMES
Snowdrops at East Lambrook
THROUGHOUT February Somerset’s famous cottage garden at East Lambrook Manor will be celebrating the snowdrop season once again with its fourth Festival of Snowdrops. Celebrated plantswoman Margery Fish created the iconic cottage garden in the 1940s, 50s and 60s and started collectiong rare snowdrops. The garden has a collection of around 150 different named varieties and many of these are used to make a special display in a raised bed. Snowdrop tours for small groups will offer an interesting introduction to the genus. Sculptor Chris Kampf will also be exhibiting his popular steel snowdrops. Visitors should check the website for the latest information. The annual NGS Snowdrop Open Day is on Thursday, February 10th, with all entry money going to charity, and RHS members have free entry on Wednesdays. There’s no charge if just visiting the nursery.
N GS GA R D EN S OF THE MON TH
Elworthy Cottage
ELWORTHY Cottage is a one-acre plantsman's garden in a tranquil setting. Island beds, scented plants, clematis, unusual perennials and ornamental trees and shrubs provide year-round interest. In spring it has pulmonarias, hellebores and more than 350 varieties of snowdrops. The garden is planted to encourage birds, bees and butterflies, resulting in lots of birdsong. There are wildflower areas and a wildflower meadow is being developed. The garden boasts a decorative vegetable garden and a living willow screen. There are seats for visitors to enjoy views of the surrounding countryside. Opening dates and time: Sunday, February 27th plus other dates later in the year., 11am-4pm. Admission: £4.50, children free. Address: Elworthy, Taunton TA4 3PX between Wiveliscombe and Watchet. Contact: Mike and Jenny Spiller, 01984 656427, mike@elworthy-cottage.co.uk www.elworthy-cottage.co.uk. Yeo Valley (pictured below) the Bishop’s Palace and East Lambrook are also holding snowdrop festivals.
Other Gardens Open for the NGS To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Garden Visitors Handbook, or the Somerset County Leaflet, available from local Garden Centres, or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
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GARDENING
Saving the Stanton Plum
THE Stanton Plum has made a comeback and is likely to survive for many more years thanks to the hard work of Liz Richardson and gardening expert Mary Payne. Last January we reported that after nearly going the way of lots of disappearing varieties of fruit, parish council chairman, Liz Richardson, noticed a homemade golden vodka at the local flower show, which had used Stanton Plums, which she had never heard of. She contacted Mary Payne and the pair decided to try and take cuttings of the few old trees remaining in the village. Mary said: “The cuttings were taken in December 2020 from very old diseased trees, so we were not expecting much success. They were treated with a rooting hormone to encourage rooting, bundled in pots until March 2021 when they were planted out in rows. “The success rate far exceeded our expectations with cuttings from some donor trees making better plants than
Going wild over wildlife
Liz Richardson (left) and Mary Payne
others. Young trees have been given to all cutting donors and others in the villages have purchased plants in the hope that the Stanton Plum can continue for many years to come.” You can now now buy a Stanton Plum, bare root, for £5, with money going to local projects.
Details: Liz 01761 490958 email lizr1@mac.com
Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists
A GROUP in Frome which aims to attract more wildlife to the town’s private gardens and shared open spaces has a series of events lined up for 2022. Frome’s Wild Bunch is open to anyone who is interested in gardening for wildlife. It is supported by Frome Town Council and deputy mayor, Councillor Sara Butler, a professional gardener herself, said: “Neighbours coming together to explore gardening and encourage the wildlife in our gardens is great on all levels – for our wild friends, our mental health and our communities. The Wild Bunch gatherings will take place on the third Thursday of every month. Currently they will take place online but will move outside when the weather improves. To sign up visit: https://bit.ly/WildBunchFrome
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WELLS ROAD, CHILCOMPTON, RADSTOCK BA3 4RR Telephone: 01761 232137 Open Mon–Sat 10am to 4pm • Closed Sundays MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 49
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MENDIP TIMES
EVENTS
Druids lead abbey wassail ceremony
LOTS of singing, just as many incantations in praise of apple trees – and not a shotgun in sight. The Druid way of celebrating wassail at Glastonbury Abbey is a much gentler affair but that didn’t stop dozens of people of all ages from joining in the celebrations which began with a procession from the Abbot’s Kitchen, round the lake and to the abbey orchard. Led by the Ash Grove Druids, based in the town, the ceremony itself took place around the “mother” tree and included cider made from the abbey’s own apples.
Singing in the orchard
PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Enigma Twirlers ahead of the procession
Placing toast in the mother tree
The procession makes its way to the orchard
No cider mug for this wassail
Property section.qxp_Layout 1 20/01/2022 16:15 Page 51
PROPERTY
A new year, a new market? UK house prices are rising at the fastest rate since the financial crash of 2008, but what does that mean for the UK housing market in 2022? Halifax reported a 9.8% increase in house prices during 2021, taking the average house price in the UK to a record high of £275,000. The South West saw a 10% increase in the average price of properties in the last 12 months, compared to the previous 12 months. Many factors fuelled the growth of the market, including the stamp duty holiday, cheap lending and an adjustment of buyers needs and priorities as a direct result of lockdown. Post-lockdown, many buyers soon realised they didn’t need to be located close to work, as they could work from home and that meant home could be somewhere altogether different. Many “City Folk” fled for an idyllic lifestyle in the country, whilst first-time buyers took advantage of low mortgage rates and a stamp duty saving to get themselves on the property ladder. Buying requirements changed almost
overnight from wanting the best possible commute to work to good outside space, a home office and highspeed internet. We also saw heightened demand for dual-occupation homes where families wanted to come together after being separated for what felt like a lifetime during the first lockdown. There is no doubt the coronavirus pandemic has been devastating to many and incredibly disruptive to others, this negative time did however have a silver lining. People’s priorities changed not only in what a home is to them or where they can work, but a heightened community spirit, a new-found respect and admiration for the NHS and perhaps above all, the realisation that family and friends took pole position on the list of priorities. The property market was a beneficiary of the pandemic for many of the reasons above and still stands strong today. Predictions of another crash have already been voiced but the fact of the matter is, there is still a serious lack of available property and
Luke Parle
whilst mortgage rates are low, demand strongly outweighs supply. With this in mind, I believe the market will see a steady increase throughout 2022 with values rising in every region. If you are considering a move or would simply like a current valuation of your property, then please do get in touch with us! By Luke Parle, partner, Manor & Hall Ltd.
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 51
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MENDIP TIMES
Latest news from Debbie Fortune estate agents FIRST and foremost we would like to say a really big thank you to all of you who bought, sold and supported the company and our fundraising efforts in 2021. We are delighted to have raised and donated an incredible £11,273.48 last year, which has gone to support many local events and charities such as the Harvey Hext Trust, The Chew Valley 10k (Lymphoma Research Trust), NICU supporting Bristol and Bath’s Neo-Natal units, along with Children in Need, Macmillan Cancer research
Neil Drejer
PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
and many, many other worthy causes. So what can we expect for the housing market 2022? Well It is true to say that 2022 has already clicked into gear with lots of new applicants registering their details and plenty of interest in new stock that’s coming to the market and whilst industry experts seem to be voicing conflicting opinions of how strong the housing market will be, one thing is for sure, our wonderful region looks like taking no backward step in terms of its draw for homebuyers. In fact, with interest rates having recently increased there is a strong argument to say that if you are either looking to upsize to your dream home, or indeed downsize and pay off the mortgage, now would seem a very sensible time to do it, thus creating high demand for properties of all types. At Debbie Fortune Estate Agents not only do we have over 20 dedicated members of staff but we also have unrivalled access to major property platforms and media outlets to showcase your home, including websites such as RIGHTMOVE, ON THE MARKET, ZOOPLA and PRIME LOCATION. We also feature in many local and regional publications such as The Mendip Times, The Chew Valley & Wrington Gazette, The North Somerset
Lisa Baines
Times, Bristol Evening Post and Somerset Live. We also have a London presence through the Guild Property professionals of which we are proud members. If you are considering a move in 2022 and would like a no obligation and honest market appraisal on your home please get in touch with your local office. Best Wishes Lisa Baines & Neil Drejer Directors & Co-owners
Property section.qxp_Layout 1 20/01/2022 16:15 Page 53
What does 2022 have in store for the residential property market?
PROPERTY
As a manic year has drawn to a close, with house prices having increased by 10%, there are lots of factors at play that will have an influence on the housing market this year. Tom Killen looks at the predictions.
AS always, predictions for the next 12 months vary depending on who you to talk to, but there appears to be a broad consensus that while houses will continue to increase in value, the rate of growth will not be as hectic as it has been over the past 18 months. According to Halifax, UK house prices rose by 3.4 per cent in the three months to the end of November 2021, the highest quarterly rate since 2006. Looking forward, Right Move forecasts that prices will rise in the South West by a further seven per cent in 2022. Others are being more cautious in their national predictions. Online portal Zoopla are predicting 3 percent and it seems that most predictions are in the range of 1 – 3 percent. One thing there does seem to be agreement on is that we’re likely to see a continued desire from people to change where they live as we return to greater normality following the pandemic. According to a Zoopla survey, 22 per cent of households remain eager to move and are likely to seek to move as they are able to re-evaluate their requirements. The lack of houses on the market has been well publicised and has contributed to the strong growth
in house values. If more properties come to the market as confidence improves then this could lead to a slowdown in the rate of price growth but house builders are struggling to deliver the 300,000 new houses required each year to maintain the status quo. Here in Somerset, it does seem as if the area will continue to be attractive to those moving from the South East and elsewhere who are seeking their rural idyll. We are blessed with beautiful countryside, fresh air and excellent local facilities whilst having the advantage of being within relatively easy travelling distance of London. At Killens, we have seen properties in villages worth between £200,000 and £700,000 in most demand but, to be honest, all property is wanted and sales are being achieved either off market or very quickly after a property is launched. It does seem as if the Rightmove predictions may prove to be the closest to the mark.
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 53
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MENDIP TIMES
From us to you
(l:r) Eric House, Nick Vine, Nicola Phillips and Eric Harding delivered around 40 hampers, prepared for them by George’s Garden at Gurney Slade
MEMBERS of the Coleford Revival Group have presented seasonal hampers to elderly residents in the village who were unable to attend the community organisation’s Christmas party in person.
Nicola Phillips, chair of Coleford Revival Group, presents a hamper to Peter Matthews
A real baby Jesus
Funding community schemes
Missing Link volunteers
WELLS Skatepark is one of the organisations winning support through Mendip’s Communities Fund and Climate and Ecological Emergency Fund. They accepted an offer of £15,000 and plan to invest that money in carrying out a full feasibility study for a new skate park for Wells. Skatepark trustee, Beverley Smith, said: “The Wells Skatepark project is an ambitious project that will have a positive benefit for anyone enjoying wheeled sports from skateboarding, scooter riding to roller skating and BMX.” Frome’s Missing Links were also successful. They accepted an offer of £30,000 and will use the money for the construction of a traffic-free multi-user path between Whatcombe Fields in Frome and Great Elm. Trustee, Ruth Knagg, said: “When completed this will be a safe travel route for cyclists, walkers and riders, enabling them to avoid a dangerous and hilly stretch of busy roads. “The volunteer group have been making gradual progress from either end of the route and this significant award from Mendip's Communities Fund will be an enormous help to come closer to joining up!” Mendip District Council allocated approximately £400,000 to aid organisations with project ideas that sought to make a positive impact on communities or contribute to eco-friendly initiatives. Council leader, Cllr Ros Wyke, said: “It was a challenge for the panels to make their decisions due to the large number, and huge variety of remarkable projects that were put forward by organisations. Some ideas include play area improvements, community workshops and even a compost toilet on an allotment site!” More details of other successful applicants and their projects will be revealed early this year.
Pictured back (l to r) Kathy Dymond, Annie Brimble, John Mander; front (l to r) Virgie Lewis and Charlene Green with grandson Zebedee
MIDSOMER Norton Methodist Church’s Christmas celebrations included nine-week-old, Zebedee, helping to tell the story of Joseph. He was taken along by his grandmother, Charlene Green, and slept through it all! PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Wells skate park
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“Overjoyed by the turn out”
The Shepton Mallet sheep – symbol of the lantern festival – taking pride of place
COMMUNITY
Photos by Mark Adler
HANDMADE lanterns in all shapes and sizes filled Shepton Mallet at the end of a spectacular procession through the town. Organisers said they were “overjoyed” by the number of people who took part, creating the lanterns either at home or during a number of community workshops. A member of the team said: “What an amazing night!”
Lanterns light up the night sky
The Little Big Horns playing in the Market Place
Concentration at one of the lantern making workshops
Jamma de Samba lead the procession through the town centre
Gathering in front of the bandstand in Collett Park before the procession begins
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 55
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MENDIP TIMES
Binegar puts on one Del of a race DEL Boy, Rodney, Uncle Albert, Trigger and Boycie have finally come out on top – if only in the best decorated barrow class in the Binegar “Bonkers Barrow Race”. The Brimble family took first place in the competition with their Only Fools and Horses- themed entry, complete with wheelbarrow made to look like the Trotters’ Reliant van. The race took 13 teams on a circuit round the village, starting and ending at the Horse and Jockey – complete with a stop for port and soft drinks half-way round. The fastest team was the Draper Team with a Mad Hatters Tea Party theme. The Mendip School at Prestleigh, where Jack, the son of pub landlords Mark and Nikki Hutchison, is a pupil, will benefit from the money raised from the race but it was also about having fun. Steve Rawlings, from the Binegar and Gurney Slade community group, which organised the race, said: “It was so lovely to have some light relief from all our Covid troubles for a couple of hours and I think participants and spectators are looking forward to 2022’s race already!”
The Brimble family ahead of the start of the race
The Horse and Jockey team The Sparkes family and their John Deere-themed entry
The teams gather for the start Charley and Dave Kimber
PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Kevin Saunders and Dave and Tim Sheppard – Tea Ladies on Tour
Community section.qxp_Layout 1 20/01/2022 17:05 Page 57
Foundation seeks new chair
SOMERSET Community Foundation is looking for a new chair to lead the board of trustees, when current chair, Jane Barrie, retires at the end of the year. Tim Walker, a current trustee at SCF, said: “We’re starting the recruitment process now so that the appointed person can work with Jane during a transition period and learn something of the great work this foundation delivers, before taking over.” Chief executive, Justin Sargent, said: “We’re looking for someone who shares our passion and enthusiasm for the work of local charities to join and lead our board. Building on the success of the foundation in recent years, they will help us fulfil our goals for the next stage of our growth and development. “This will be a fascinating and rewarding role; alongside shaping the direction of the foundation, there will be many opportunities to meet and spend time with people and charities who help make stronger and thriving communities across Somerset, and see first-hand the impact our funding makes to local communities every day.” The foundation is looking forward to its 20th anniversary in late 2022. Since it was founded in 2002 it has awarded more than £17 million to thousands of great local causes, changing thousands of lives across Somerset. The foundation has received national recognition for its annual Surviving Winter campaign, built the £1.5m Somerset Flood Relief Fund in 2015, created the £1.5m Somerset Coronavirus Fund in 2020 and is building an endowment fund to meet the changing needs of Somerset for generations to come.
COMMUNITY
Foodbank needs a new van
WELLS Vineyard Foodbank is raising funds for a new van before its old one breaks down. Sue Marland, senior pastor at Wells Vineyard Church and manager of the foodbank said they need to raise around £7,000. She said: “The van is vital to help deliver essential items of furniture such as beds and cookers to our clients in Wells and the surrounding villages. People can also make donations directly to us via our GoFundMe appeal.” Local florist, Jen Owen of Goldfinch Floral Studios is hoping to help raise funds by offering stunning “living garden” kits for Mother’s Day. The kits can be ordered via goldfinchfloralstudio.co.uk and cost £15. Jen is donating £5 for every kit to the foodbank. Jen said: “I’ve seen how the staff and volunteers of Wells Vineyard Foodbank have worked tirelessly through the pandemic to help local people and have been inspired by how truly extraordinary they all are. “I wanted to do something to help support them and hope that these living garden kits will help raise money for them, while offering people something beautiful for their homes.” Living garden
Details: www.gofundme.com search for Wells Vineyard Foodbank Van Appeal. Alternatively financial donations can be made to Wells Vineyard Christian Fellowship’s HSBC account: Sort Code: 40-46-06, Acc No: 31387170. Please use “Van Appeal” as the reference.
Christmas hampers
Details: www.somersetcf.org.uk/vacancies
Norton’s window wanderland
A WINDOW Wanderland is coming to Midsomer Norton for the first time for ten days in February. The organisers, Midsomer Norton Community Trust, are encouraging residents and businesses to open their curtains and create illuminated window displays on the theme of “Midsomer Memories”, to amuse, entertain and inspire. Together, the windows will form a winter walking trail which people of all ages can enjoy. The wanderland runs from Thursday, February 10th until Sunday, February 20th.
For details, visit: www.windowwanderland.com/event/midsomer-norton2022/ or find Midsomer Norton Window Wanderland 2022 on Facebook
THE Peasedown Community Trust, set up just after the first lockdown in June 2020, saw over 50 villagers fed during the Christmas holidays, many of whom would have gone without otherwise. Chairman, Gavin Heathcote, said: “So many residents are in need this year due to recently being made unemployed, experiencing a loss of income, or having to self-isolate due to the coronavirus pandemic.” The photo shows some of the charity’s trustees getting ready to deliver hampers.
Details: write to 33a St John’s Close, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8JG, email peasedowncommunitytrust@gmail.com or call 07557 683834
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 57
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Rotary is very active
Ric Canham with one of the insect boxes
AXBRIDGE and District Rotary has been busy, while also attracting new members. They have donated 30 wooden insect hotels to Banwell Primary School. The children can decorate them then put them around the grounds to learn about insect life and how important it is. They collected “Chocs for Champs” for young carers, aiming for 400 selection boxes but ending up with 600. The project was run by Jo Arnold of Banwell School and Wrington Rotary. They have also made donations, including £100 towards a weekend for young carers.
Cheque presentation
Details: Chairman Paul Bateman 07976 784635 or Lesley Watts 07828 153390
PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Presentation evening
CHESTER House Social Club in Frome held their turkey shoot and presentation evening for the first time in two years and were able to present a cheque for £2,000 to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Ken Hutton from the air ambulance received a cheque from long-standing members Les Price and Derek Scane, chairman. Those pictured are winners of the 2019 skittles season. Going forward, Chester House will begin their fundraising with a quiz night on Saturday, January 29th. Details: Chester House 01373 466865, after 7pm
Glasses for South Africa
THE Trefoil Guild Somerset North, which is the senior section of Girl Guiding, has collected 470 used spectacles to send to South Africa. The glasses will be re-configured by an optician in Germiston near Johannesburg, for people there in need. The guild has more than 200 members in Somerset North, from the Chew Valley to River Severn areas. The collection was organised by Rotary and sent via a link with local resident, Theresa Watson and county international advisor, Mary Gray, a member of Chew Valley Trefoil Guild. Membership of the guild is open to all interested in enjoying the company of like-minded people, former Guiding members or not, aged over 18.
Details: trefoilguild@girlguiding.og.uk mgmelsdon@googlemail.com
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COMMUNITY
School leaders
Café supports good causes
THIS year’s school leavers at Cameley Primary School have been given new hoodies showing their role as leaders. Headteacher, Hannah Maggs, said: “Year 6 pupils had to apply for the specific roles of inclusion lead, aspiration, innovation and reflection leaders. “These are our school's core drivers and run through all of our curriculum and also school links. The pupils had to write a short speech and deliver this, across the five different bubbles, to all pupils. The pupils and staff were allowed to vote for one leader out of the 85% of children who took part. “We are pleased to report that we were able to recruit the leaders shown in the photographs, who made great speeches and were really persuasive in their arguments about why they should be leading our school. “Other roles will be forthcoming for the other students who are hoping to lead the school.”
VILLAGERS enjoying delicious homemade food at Congresbury Community Cafe meant about £4,000 being donated to local efforts and national charities in the last year. Volunteers run the cafe in Broad Street, at the rear of Debbie Fortune estate agent, who sponsors the project, and all profits are donated to good causes. Those receiving donations were: Congresbury Youth Partnership £400 for activities for young people; £423 to St. Andrew's School paid for new playground equipment; £900 to the Community Preschool for their Forest project. Village senior citizens had their Christmas lunch paid for and that will continue each Christmas. Other donations went to Children in Need, Macmillan Cancer Support and Children's Hospice South West. All profit from the cafe for two weeks since January 17th will be donated to Weston Hospicecare. The cafe was due to open on Saturday, January 22nd, as well as the normal Wednesday and Friday sessions, and will continue opening on alternate Saturdays, 9-3pm.
Repair fund boosted by old money
AN appeal by the Friends of Axbridge Church for people to donate pre-decimal and pre-Euro coins and notes has raised £1,200 towards repair funds. They say it was a magnificent response and they thank everyone who donated.
New year starts
Market is back
ALL Saints Church in Publow will be opening its doors to its first monthly morning market of the year on Saturday, February 5th, 1011.30am. One of the organisers, Judith Hillman, said: “Besides our popular home baking stall we will be running a pre-loved gifts/bring and buy stall as a low-key start to the year. "New seasons marmalade will also be on offer."
Details: Judith Hillman 01761 490324, Janet Smith 01761 490584 or Gillian Wookey 01761 490336
MEMBERS of Bishop Sutton & Stowey WI enjoyed a varied and busy year, culminating with a Christmas craft class, led by Janet Brook. President, Jenny Harris, said: “We now look forward to the new year with some interesting talks, beginning with Duncan Bird, our celebrated local literary expert, who is giving us a talk on Silent Spring the environment book.” Other events planned include a WI walk and a talk on February 8th from the police on cyber and fraud crime. Details: bishopsuttonstoweywi@hotmail.com
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Another link in the Somerset Circle?
TWO spectacular viaducts and an historic tunnel hold the keys to ambitious plans to create a multi-user path on a former railway line above Shepton Mallet. Volunteers have been working to clear the 1.5 mile stretch of the old Somerset and Dorset line of vegetation and have been negotiating with landowners before announcing the plan. The Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels have the support of Shepton Mallet Town Council and Mendip District Council has helped with the funding of various surveys. If successful, the project would complete another key section of the vision of the proposed 76-mile Somerset Circle route connecting Bristol, Bath, the Mendips and the Somerset Levels. It would also connect to the East Mendip Way. The friends group has been clearing a section from Ham Wood above Croscombe towards Downside at Shepton Mallet. The Ham Wood viaduct is already open to pedestrians but the friends now want to
Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels were joined by members of the Mendip Hills Hash House Harriers on one of their work mornings. Gavin Mayall is on the far left
reopen the Bath Road viaduct to the north of the town. A planning application before Mendip District Council by the friends, Greenways & Cycleroutes Ltd. and Shepton Mallet Town Council, says the Charlton Viaduct – above Kilver Court – could also be opened in the future. The route would be surfaced to make it safe for
The Ham Hill Viaduct is already open to walkers
Climbers clear ivy from Ham Wood Viaduct
Clearing ash – and leaving a smile
everyone from dog walkers to horseriders and people with disabilities. Windsor Hill Tunnels were sealed by the owner and a campaign started to have them reopened. The gates to both tunnels have since been broken down. Campaigners want to use the shorter, straighter tunnel for the path and want the second sealed closed again to protect bats and other wildlife. Gavin Mayall, a Shepton Malley town councillor who lives near the line and has led the negotiations, said: “Everyone locally has heard of the Strawberry Line which itself seems to be gathering some real pace of late, this particular project forms part of the Somerset Circle which will ultimately connect our beloved Shepton and the Strawberry line via Chilcompton and on to Radstock and the wider national cycle network.”
Gavin Mayall prepares to fell another tree beneath the viaduct. The area below is part of a community woodland
For details, find the Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels on Facebook
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Laughing stock
ANOINTING the court jester as king was always a high-risk strategy for the Conservatives. Boris Johnson got Brexit done but it was only a matter of time before he turned his government into a laughing stock. I don’t actually think anyone in Whitehall broke the law by partying repeatedly while the rest of the country was in lockdown. It merely destroyed trust and credibility. By Dr PHIL Lockdown laws were cleverly crafted to allow HAMMOND essential workers to do pretty much anything whilst on the job. Only two people could legally meet outdoors in a public space (with a few exceptions) but within the boundaries of an essential workplace, such as Downing Street or a hospital, there were only guidelines. Gatherings should be “minimised”, different work teams should avoid mixing “as far as possible” and meetings should usually be limited to “only absolutely necessary participants” and “be held outdoors or in well ventilated areas when possible”. There was no guidance at all on workplace socialising. The NHS frowns upon staff drinking alcohol at work but in terms of pandemic risk, having a drink at your desk after work with colleagues you regularly mix with isn’t going to alter viral spread. However, alcohol often reduces social distancing and encourages high risk behaviour. It is no surprise there were so many Covid infections amongst Downing Street staff. The May 20th party could have had giant cakes with naked interns leaping out of them. Boris Johnson could still pretend he didn’t realise he was at a party, but even if he did, he may not have broken the law and has long since been safe in the knowledge that the police won’t investigate retrospective breeches unless senior civil servant investigator Sue Gray (not entirely independent) finds evidence of illegality. Which she won’t. The most Boris Johnson can expect from the “partygate” investigation is a slap on the wrist. Johnson also oversaw a culture that permitted lockdown parties to take place in Downing Street when he wasn’t there. Two occurred on the eve of Prince Philip’s funeral, allegedly including the smuggling in of alcohol in a suitcase and dancing around a desktop disco. Even the director general of the government’s own Covid taskforce – in charge of communicating the rules to the gullible public – had a big drinks’ leaving bash in Whitehall. Technically all these parties may be legal, just very ill-advised. Likewise, the people who declined the invitation to a “bring your own booze” party in the Downing Street garden in May 2020 knew it was a clear contravention of the guidance but not the law. A hundred people guest list to drink alcohol and make the most of the weather is hardly “essential” or “minimised”. They wisely stayed away, some expressing concern via email but none publicly blowing the whistle at the time. Johnson should have blown the whistle on himself in December, admitting that multiple social events have taken place during lockdown under his leadership, that they were technically legal but clearly against the government’s guidance, and apologised. Instead, he has taken the absurd path of pretending he thought they were all “essential work meetings”. He is selling the lie that he – as Prime Minister – was following both the guidance and the law. This implies, rather alarmingly, that drinking regularly on the job is essential to the pandemic response, as is wearing party hats, playing secret Santa, doing festive quizzes and dancing the night away in Downing Street. It perhaps explains why our handling of the pandemic has been so rambling and incoherent, and why some very poor decisions were made. Dr Hammond’s Covid Casebook is out now
PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Plop the Raindrop
IF you had a choice, have you ever thought about what kind of animal you would like to be? Obviously I have inside knowledge since I’ve literally been inside most of them at some point or other. Usually as blood or pee or worse. As you probably know, virtually every living thing on earth is made up mostly of water, which involves trillions of water droplets like me. I imagine the oceans hold the most water on earth, though there’s an awful lot of it floating around in clouds. But imagine counting every blade of grass on the planet to see how much water is in them. Not to mention all the trees and other vegetation. What about puddles, mud and all of the water which soaks the soil? Then there’s all the stuff in animals and birds, where water usually makes up a huge percentage of their body weight. Without water you would be flatter than a pancake. Actually that’s not true. Without water life would not exist. Not on this Earth anyway. So where was I? Oh yes, what animal would you like to be? To be honest, they all have pluses and minuses. May flies are the most beautiful of insects, floating like fairies over the water, but only briefly before they disappear within a day. Giant tortoises seem to live the longest, but would you want to spend a lifetime lumbering around carrying your house on your back? Trees can live for thousands of years, but must get bored waking up to the same old view. I know a lot of human beans dream of being as free as a bird and I’ve seen some very interesting attempts by you at imitating them. But I bet most birds wish they were still dinosaurs. The world was a lot less complicated before you lot came along. Anyway, birds only fly so much because they are constantly searching for their next meal, which can’t be much fun. No, from my experience, the best bet would be a pet cat, kept fed and warm, with the option of spending all day sleeping on any bed in the house. Then springing into action at night, chasing mice and rats, a distant reminder of their wild ancestors who actually needed to hunt. Cats just know how to have fun! MENDIP GRANDAD
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The “Bowie” funeral factor
DIRECT to cremation – a funeral that has no service, no flowers, no minister or celebrant and certainly no congregation – might appear trendy, but it's not for everyone. Perhaps David Bowie can be forgiven for making such funerals fashionable as he didn't want anyone at his. Such funerals are an option to be considered where money is an issue. However, given the choice, Rod Major, of Bath & Wells Funeral Services, still believes that most people wish to see a final farewell to recognise and honour someone's life and the difference they made in theirs. Bath & Wells Funeral Services like to make funerals less of an undertaking; it is their goal to ensure that the bereaved reflect the person lost in a celebration of their life, enabling family, friends and colleagues to move forward in a dignified and respectful way. Records at Bath & Wells Funeral Services show that Somerset does not have many David Bowie-style funeral followers. Money hasn't been a deciding factor. Rod says a direct to cremation funeral costs somewhere between £997 and £1,499 and he has only delivered two such funerals. Ninety-five per cent of his funerals have been traditional: hearse, limousine, flowers and order of service. The cost of this can be anywhere between £2,995 and £4,495. New technology is also enabling people to attend funerals virtually. Rod said: “Many of us have friends and family living all over the world so I think we will see increased demand for the use of Zoom- type technology in the future.”
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Call Rod on 01761 233 555 or email: fd@bwfd.me.uk www.bathwellsfuneralservices.co.uk
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e Manager – Chris Dando • 01934 742131 • chriscourthouse@gmail.com Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 63
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PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Village Agents scheme set to expand
IN January 2010 a pilot project was set up in a small area of rural B&NES, where the council knew that residents in isolated locations were not accessing information and advice because they could not get into Bath or other towns. Rather than set up information centres, they followed the lead set in Gloucester and created a team of Village Agents, locally recruited people who knew the area and also the disadvantages of living in a village without transport links. Now, 12 years later, that small Chew Valley project has grown in size and reputation and will soon be available in more areas, so they are now recruiting new staff. Project manager, Denise Perrin, said: “This expansion of our service is long overdue. At the moment our focus is on preventing admission to hospital and helping people recover from the longer term impact of Covid.” The team have seen an increase in mental health issues related to over two years of lockdowns and fear of infection. Denise said: “We are all desperate to reclaim our lives and get back to meeting people, but for people who have not been outdoors since March 2020 that is increasingly unlikely to happen. And that is already taking a toll on their physical health and wellbeing.” Village Agents work one-to-one with people, gently exploring ways to add more options and choice. It starts with a conversation and may lead to the assistance of other specialist services as required. This confidential service is free to B&NES residents. You can refer yourself or talk to the team if you are concerned about someone else, as long as you have their permission to speak on their behalf. Call 01275 333700 for more information or visit their website. Details: wern.org.uk/village-agents
Helping with dementia
SINGING for the Brain is back in Wells! These weekly sessions offer an opportunity for people living with dementia and their carers to get together and explore the benefits that participating in singing and music provide. Eliza and Emma, the lively and dynamic duo leading the sessions, look forward to welcoming you along. Each session incorporates singing well-known songs to stimulate memories and taking part in fun vocal exercises and action songs to promote brain activity. You will also be invited to explore music making with African drums, which participants find incredibly uplifting and therapeutic. Sessions run on Wednesdays, 1.15-12.45pm at Seager Hall, Union Street, Wells. Details: emma@somersetartswell.co.uk 01749 595735 www.somersetartswell.co.uk/sftb
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HEALTH & FAMILY
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MUSIC & THEATRE
Bold Brass in Yatton
On song for ten years
BOLD Brass promise a rousing performance after the winter months and look forward to a more cheerful spring for their concert at St Mary’s, Yatton on February 26th. Based in North Somerset, the ensemble was formed in 1977 and their players have many years of experience playing in brass bands, jazz and big bands. Their standard of playing is to semi-professional standard and the repertoire is drawn from classical, jazz, big band and popular brass band music Bold Brass has provided music for the Open University award ceremonies in Torquay, Cheltenham and Milton Keynes and for many years have been an essential part of the Bristol Evening Post Carol concert in the Colston Hall (now organised by BBC Radio Bristol). The concert starts at 7.30pm, tickets price £10, half price for students over 16, children free.
CHEDDAR Valley Singers celebrate their tenth anniversary this month. They managed to get outdoors to sing at Christmas and kept singing via Zoom throughout the pandemic. They started in February 2012 and throughout the past decade have enjoyed singing a wide variety of repertoire led by their director, Kate Lynch. She said: “Our ultimate aim is the enjoyment of singing together, but we like developing our technique along the way. We're a really friendly bunch. Come join us for our next decade!” New members are always welcome.
Details: www.yms.org.uk David Ford daford220@gmail.com • 01934 830255
Concert supports refugees
THE Nailsea Concert Orchestra will be performing the gorgeous Concierto de Aranjuez by Rodrigo with guest soloist Kevin Byrne in a programme that also includes The William Tell Overture, The Blue Danube and Vaughan Williams Norfolk Rhapsody. The concert is in support of REFUGEES WELCOME North Somerset which, is a local group helping to resettle refugees in this country under the government’s resettlement scheme. The concert is on Saturday, March 12th, 7.30pm at St Francis of Assisi Church Nailsea. There will be a pre-concert talk at 6.45pm. Tickets, £12 adults, £10 concessions and £2.50 U18s and are available from Nailsea Music Shop and on the door.
New players wanted
WEST Mendip Orchestra, a medium sized, friendly amateur orchestra, is looking for new members. It rehearses every Friday, 7.30-10pm at The Lynch Chapel, Winscombe, BS25 1AR. In particular they are looking for string players, trumpets, oboe and bassoon. Details: www.west-mendip-orchestra.org.uk
PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
Details: Cwww.cheddarvallleysingers.co.uk
Preparing for summer
WILLIAM Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night will be this year's production by the Wells Community Theatre, as part of the Wells Theatre Festival in July. The organisers are now inviting actors to take on roles in this hilarious comedy of mistaken identity. Performers of all ages and experience are being sought to play the characters or to be part of an ensemble cast. Once again, the production will be performed in front of Wells Cathedral between July 7-10th as part of a wider festival of professional theatre and performing arts that will take place in venues around the City of Wells. * The festival has paid tribute to Simon Bruce (pictured), a founding cast member, who died on November 4th. Simon, a chartered accountant, died a week after the final performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream performed in the cathedral as part of the Festival of the Moon at the end of October. He leaves his wife Caroline and daughters, Annie and Molly. Details: Ros@wellstheatrefestival.org.uk www.wellstheatrefestival.org
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Access to Showroom by appointment only PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
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HOMES & INTERIORS
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 69
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MENDIP TIMES
A winter refuge – and point to point
MANY of us have been so grateful for Badgworth Arena this winter and will continue to be so as spring approaches. The ground has generally been so With JANE wet and muddy, and PATERSON riding out in the persistent rain is not the best way to enjoy the sport, especially as the days have been so dark and gloomy. December 2021 marked the 20th anniversary of Jane Vosper and her family moving into Badgworth Equine Centre. It has seen some changes during that time and has now become an established venue offering a very friendly and regular programme of activities, both affiliated and unaffiliated, to suit all ages and all levels of rider. Nearly every Wednesday evening is busy with unaffiliated show jumping, which attracts a good number of entries from local riders as well as some from further afield. Higher classes one week, lower the next. It means that it is possible to do afterschool jumping for the youngsters, who are delighted not only to be doing a
Jane Vosper
PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022
different sort of homework, but also if they are lucky, to be getting their supper from the excellent catering provided by Jane’s mother and sister. There’s nothing like cheesy chips or a burger to finish off the Phoebe Crossman, age ten evening! Weekends are usually kept for British at Ston Easton on March 20th. Dressage or British Show Jumping. One Races usually start at about 12 local family now has its third midday, but gates open well beforehand generation rider competing regularly to allow a look at the course, see what there, young Phoebe Crossman. Phoebe, trade stands there are, and socialise aged ten, is doing very well and is one over a drink or an early lunch. There’s to watch. Utterly fearless, this tiny no dress code, but warm coats and person rides with a skill way above her strong boots are a must. years, and loves a challenge. The horses all parade before the Badgworth has a huge area for races, so you can select your winner parking your lorry, trailer, or car. All and place a bet if you have a horse in hard standing, the parking area mind. It’s an exciting spectator sport, overlooks a superb outdoor warm-up and everyone can get right up close to arena, floodlit when needed, and just a the action. There’s one entry fee for all few strides away from the indoor arena so try it and have a great day out. I’ll where the winter competitions take see you there! place. For those who don’t wish to compete at all, the indoor arena can be hired for a very reasonable rate, to include jumps, lights, use of the viewing areas, and oh joy, indoor loos. Shared between a few friends, this can be an affordable treat in school holidays, which will fill a few hours and can be rounded off with a trailer-ramp picnic afterwards. No screens, no phones, just good physical activity and lots of fun. Jane also takes liveries at Badgworth where there are stables and plenty of turnout when weather permits. All fixtures for events are on Facebook, and there is great signposting from the A38 at Lower Weare. Meanwhile the Point to Point season is well under way and is a wonderful day out to share with friends or family. The fixture list is available online, but an important date for the diary is the Picnic in the trailer park Mendip Farmers Point to Point meeting
An award-winning riding school in the heart of Mendip
Return to riding in 2022!
We all know it can be a bit of a challenge to get back in the saddle if you’ve not ridden for a while – but we have the answers! H Ride and coffee mornings – Wednesdays, 10am H Adult group lessons – ursdays, 5.30-6.30pm Call or email us for more details
Divoky Riding School, Manor Farm, Downhead, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4LG www.divoky.co.uk • Email: info@divoky.co.uk T: 01749 880233 • M: 07971 207037
MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2022 • PAGE 71
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AS one of the sharpest tests in the country, Wincanton Racecourse certainly lends itself well to the quicker horses, so it probably comes as no surprise that its feature race – the Kingwell Hurdle – is widely recognised as a trial for the Unibet Champion Hurdle during the Cheltenham Festival. Several horses have managed to win them both over the years including Bula, Lanzarote, Kribensis, Alderbrook, Hors La Loi III and Katchit, while Desert Orchid, Azertyiuop, Inglis Drever and Binocular all boast Kingwell victories on their racing CVs. This year’s renewal is taking place on Saturday, February 19th and. as we inch ever closer towards spring, Kingwell Hurdle Day should be in every Jump racing fan’s diary. An exciting seven-race card is complemented by plenty to keep fans occupied off the track with The Hipcats playing jazz music throughout the day and a warm Wincanton welcome guaranteed. l Tickets start from £17 and it is a day no racing fan will want to miss!
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THREE young people who are working at Divoky Riding School at Downhead, near Shepton Mallet, are honing their horsemanship skills with the help of the Royal Artillery. Divoky proprietor Pat Bishop has arranged for Tommy Lee-Smith, Lucy Leading by example: Pat Bishop Durston and Olivia Lord to (left) with Denny (an Irish Cob), take part in an online course Tommy, Lucy and Olivia, with Monty, another Irish Cob organised by the Royal Artillery Centre for Personal Development. Originally established to offer military personnel the opportunity to gain new qualifications, the courses are now available to civilians. The Equine Groom Level Two course covers everything from yard and field routines to horse handling, care and appearance. Pat said: “We had tried various other apprenticeship schemes and realised they weren’t for us. The Royal Artillery course has been a revelation and I’m certain we’re going to be able to boast some really high quality members of the team here at the end of the course.”
A date for every jump racing fan’s diary
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Army training for apprentices
RIDING
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Pack a bike to get to work
CYCLING with EDMUND LODITE
WORKING from home during the pandemic became the norm for many people. However, as we return to the new “normal” and fewer restrictions, more people will again be faced with the daily commute to
work. Now, while it is great to cycle to and from work that’s not always practical or desirable, depending on how far there is to travel or maybe the weather. Yet there is a halfway solution to avoid those traffic jams. Years ago, when I no longer had a parking space at work, I tried using the Park & Ride, but the service then was inconsistent and prone to delay from traffic jams. Those last three miles of my commute were accounting for most of my
“travelling” time. I wanted to cycle in from the Park & Ride, but rather than mess about with a full-size bike I bought a foldaway that could be easily lifted in and out of the boot of my car. In less than 30 seconds the bike could be unfolded, and I’d be on my way. There is something about cycling that makes you appreciate the beauty of nature. When you pedal to work each morning, you’re acutely aware of the slow turn of the seasons. You are part of the change and summer is the reward for riding to work the rest of the year. In less than a year the bike had paid for itself, from savings on bus tickets and occasional parking fees in the city centre. But the biggest benefit to me was the outdoor exercise at the start and end of each day.
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Foldaway bikes have come a long way in the last 20 years mainly driven by improvements in design and demand from urban commuters. They are perfect for short journeys and mixed-mode commuting where other transport is also used e.g. cars, trains or underground. The key selling points about them are that they are compact when folded, portable and can be easily stored at home or the office. Designs vary by manufacturer but usually consist of a hinge point on the frame allowing the bicycle to fold in half leaving the wheels side by side. A similar swing hinge is used to drop down the steering column and the pedals can be folded inwards. Quick-release clamps allow the steering and seat columns to be raised or lowered easily to suit the rider’s height and arm reach. The first ride on a foldaway can be a curious encounter. Initially, the bike can seem a little overresponsive to any movement but it’s something you quickly
get used to. Compared to a standard bike the smaller wheels provide quicker acceleration but won’t reach the top speeds of a standard bike (but then that’s not the aim). The low top tube is easy to step over so if it normally feels awkward or uncomfortable to swing your leg over the saddle, then this will be a welcome change. Other than that, it looks a bit quirky, is fun to ride and looks cool. The folding bike has been around for considerably longer than you might imagine. The military first saw the need for compact and portable transport and early versions were used in the Second Boer War complete with rifle racks. During WWII, folding bicycles were built that could withstand being dropped by parachute. They were rigged so that, when parachuted, the handlebars and seat were the first parts to hit the ground to avoid damaging the wheels. It was, however, the early 1980s that can be said to have marked the birth of the modern, compact folding bike with competing models from Brompton and Dahon. Both are still amongst the most popular brands today. The key things to consider when choosing a folding bike are compactness, weight and price. But whatever your budget you’ll save more by cutting out bus journeys and the cost of parking – and you’ll feel healthier.
FEBRUARY CROSSWORD SOLUTION
ACROSS: 1. Quantock Hills 8. Wander 9. Staccato 10. Reminiscence 11. Use 13. Coney 15. Retrace 17. Eardrum 18. Spray 21. Ski 22. Ménage a Trois 25. Air miles 26. In toto 27. Interest group. DOWN: 2. Addle 3. Termite 4. Casein 5. Ilchester 6. J.M.W.Turner 7. Dog 10. Recur 12. Yeovilton 14. Normalise 16. Abyss 19. Parting 20. Cassis 23. Intro 24. Baa
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SPORT
Trials and tribulations Photos by Mark Adler
THERE was an almost full house when the North Somerset Motor Sports Club held its New Year’s Day motorcycle time trial meeting at Lambs Lair, East Harptree. A total of 59 riders competed in the Eco Angus Time Trial. Judged on sections around the course by teams of observers, the riders aimed to make as few mistakes as possible, earning penalty points every time they touched the ground with their feet, stalling the engine or even going backwards. The emphasis is on handling skills and throttle control, not speed, as riders tackled tight bends, deep water and mud. l The club’s next time trial is the Terry Bunn Trophy, on Sunday, February 6th at Scars Wood, Lulsgate. For details, find the club on Facebook.
Luke Golding on his way to victory
Alfie Webb makes a splash Mudlark: Ashley Morgan
Max Barnett (left) passes Matt Berry who gets stuck in the mud
Seb Dexter (left) and Andy Stagg
Trials site wins short-term reprieve A POPULAR motorbike trials practice circuit near Clutton has been given a one-month extension to fight an enforcement notice which could lead to its closure. Fry’s Bottom Trials Practice Wood had been told by Bath and North East Somerset Council to shut down for good on January 14th, but a solicitor for the family-run venue has won them more time – until Monday, February 28th – to provide evidence that the site is legal. Supporters have launched a £6,500 appeal to help fund the costs of fighting the closure notice. They say the land at Fry’s Bottom has
had an ongoing association with off-road motorcycling since the 1970s and currently provides a focus for the healthy recreation of more than 300 members (aged between five years old to late 70s), as well as hosting competitions and events for local clubs, all in a safe, friendly and organised environment. Steve Willcox and his family have owned the site since 1985 and has hired planning consultants to support his application for a certificate of lawful use. They are appealing for support from anyone who has used the venue between 2008-2013 to contact them with any evidence.
How the Willcox family announced the reprieve on Facebook
For details, find Fry’s Bottom Trials Practice Wood on Facebook
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Club bids farewell to Kay
KAY Willcox has hung up her goggles for the last time after 18 years as head coach at Norton Radstock Swimming Club. The club said she had a positive impact on every swimmer that has been at the club, which caters for swimmers at all levels from swim development to competitive swimming. As well as countless hours at the poolside, she spent most of her weekends with the swimmers at galas. Committee members, swimmers and
parents gathered to say a fond farewell and thank you and presented Kay with gifts and flowers. The club said: “Kay’s levels of commitment is clear as she stayed in post until new coaching provision was in
place and she can now rest easy knowing that the club is in very capable hands, that will provide some exciting opportunities for the swimmers.” NRSC welcomes applications from new swimmers.
Details: https://www.nrswimmingclub.org.uk or email membership@nrswimmingclub.org.uk
New sports track for Cheddar
New president
Proposed layout
CHEDDAR Parish Council has announced the start of work on a new pump track at Sharpham Road playing fields. The project is the vision of Ride Mendips who first pitched the idea to the parish council in 2019. Located close to the skate park, the pump track will provide more opportunities for skate boarders, scooters and BMX bikes which have become increasingly popular following British successes at the last Olympics. Ride Mendips have helped secure funding for the project through several grants including British Cycling Places to Ride Fund, Thatchers Foundation, National Grid and Rotary Club of Mendip. They have also raised money through their own fundraising events and Hanson UK will be donating the aggregate and asphalt. Derek Bradley-Balmer, chairman of the parish council said: “Following delays, mainly due to suitability of location, it is fantastic to finally get this project started. It will be a great facility for the community, free for all to use, and we would like to congratulate Ride Mendips for all their work in planning and fundraising.” Once completed the pump track will be maintained by Cheddar Parish Council. Details: www.cheddarparishcouncil.org
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PRATTENS Bowls Club chairman, Barrie Dando, has now also been installed as the men’s president of Somerset Bowls Association for the 2022 season. The photo shows him in his official regalia.
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Tiddlywinks triumph for Tim – again
SPORT
Raising a glass to competitive fun. Rear (l:r) Stewart Sage, Sarah Knight, Andrew Gerrard, Tim Hunt and Nick Inglis.
SOFTWARE developer Tim Hunt is once again the winner of the Somerset Invitational Tiddlywinks Tournament. Tim held onto his title after two days of competition at the Old Down Inn at Emborough. Unable to take place last year due to the pandemic, it was a welcome return for Tim and fellow members of the Cambridge University Tiddlywinks Club. The tournament is organised by Dr Stewart Sage, whose parents used to run what is now the Somerset Wagon at Chilcompton.
Sarah prepares to play a complicated shot
Sarah shines a light on a pile of tiddlywinks to determine the next move
Tim on his way to retaining his title
Ed, wearing an unusual Scottish Tiddlywinks Association shirt
Andrew sends a tiddlywink towards the cup
Stewart Sage, who founded the competition
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Festival will fill Shepton with snowdrops
HOPE In Nature is the theme for this year’s Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival, featuring workshops, talks, street entertainment and an art trail as well as thousands of snowdrops. The festival is a celebration of the achievements of the town’s 18th Century horticulturist James Allen, hailed as the Snowdrop King for his work hybridising the plants. The highlight of the festival on Saturday, February 19th and Sunday, February 20th will be the unveiling of a 10-foot high carved stone obelisk on the Allen family grave in the town. Dr Tim Upson, RHS Director of Horticulture, Communities and Engagement, will give a James Allen Memorial Lecture as part of the festival, whilst Yeo Valley Garden will open specially. The festival patron is RHS Chelsea gold medal-winning gardener Dan Pearson, a keen collector of snowdrops. His enthusiasm was fired by gifts from
the garden designer Mary Keen. Dan said: “I now find myself with 70-or-so varieties, but even so I do consider myself still to be an amateur galanthophile! "Without fail, the early emergence of snowdrops will have me on my hands and knees, rummaging for their new life. Although I like the winter and do not want to rush it, the galanthus are important for their precociousness which, like a flare going off, announces with pristine surety that there is now a tilt towards growth." Amanda Hirst, a director of the Shepton Snowdrop Project, organisers of the festival, said: “We are thrilled to have Dan Pearson as our patron. There are some wonderful synergies between his description of his own snowdrop journey and that of James Allen, the inspiration behind our Snowdrop Festival. “He too was an amateur galanthophile and it's fascinating that each should have
embarked as amateurs on a love affair with snowdrops with such huge enthusiasm and great curiosity.”
Sculptor Sam Lee who, alongside woodcarver Amelia Crowley-Roth, is working on the obelisk
For details, visit: www.sheptonsnowdrops.org.uk
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Snowdrops at the palace
variable, so don’t leave it until the last day to visit, as you might find they’ve already gone!” So head over to Wells to celebrate spring at The Bishop’s Palace and enjoy these beautiful flowers in a stunning setting. Meanwhile, Jan Wallwork has become the new chief executive of The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens. Most recently acting as business advisor in the heritage and conservation sector with both private clients and charitable trusts across the UK including Lytham Hall Trust & Cliveden Conservation, Jan’s career has almost exclusively been within the historic environment. She said: “My delight in joining the team at The Bishop’s Palace is profound. The first of many visits this year, back in the summer, was memorable because I was not only enchanted by the historic buildings, the gardens, the staff and volunteers I encountered, but also the potential of the palace – the chance to join at a
Jan Wallwark, the palace’s new chief executive
pivotal moment in its long history – the prospect of creating new ways of strengthening our engagement with our community.” In her spare time, Jan enjoys spending time outdoors and is often out walking with her family, her camera and her deerhound lurcher. l Entry to the snowdrop festival is included with any standard admission.
Get ready to light up Blagdon
BLAGDON Lantern Parade is back this year with the theme of outer space, organisers Blagsaey Arts CIC have announced. Taking place on Saturday, March 5th, they expect to see lots of fun and fabulous lanterns such as rockets, aliens, planets, spaceships, robots and more. Lighting up Blagdon Everyone is welcome to join them at dusk for their fifth parade around Blagdon village, with beats provided by the Bloco B drummers. There will be drop-in lantern making workshops at Blagdon Village club (10am-1pm) on Saturday, February 19th and Saturday, February 26th where volunteers will help people make their own plastic bottle rocket lanterns – take a plastic bottle to be reused. They will also be working on a bigger lantern. The sessions are free and open to everyone, of all ages and abilities. Blagdon PTA will provide tea and cakes at the workshops as well as hot food and treats after the parade at Blagdon Village Club. From Monday, February 14th Blagsaey CIC will be selling classic lantern kits to make at home for £4 from Blagdon Village Shop. For details, find Blagdon Lanterns on Facebook and Instagram, Blagsaey Arts CIC on Nextdoor or email blagdonlanterparade@gmail.com
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(Photograph courtesy of Gabriel Gilson)
THE Bishop’s Palace’s popular “Snowdrop Celebrations” have returned to Wells running each consecutive weekend until February 27th – it’s the perfect way to mark the arrival of spring and longer days. Since 2018 visitors have enjoyed the carpets of snowdrops around The Bishop’s Palace Gardens every spring. To complement the themed weekends, visitors can collect a printed Snowdrop Walk to guide them around the moat banks carpeted with spectacular snowdrops, and across the Willow Bridge to enjoy an arboretum full of snowdrops. Each weekend, little ones can pick up a children’s trail leaflet from the palace ticket office with the reward of a small prize upon completion. There will be a variety of artisan craft stalls and children’s activities in The Undercroft. Head Gardener James Cross said: “The Snowdrop Weekends have proved to be hugely popular in recent years but the growing season can be
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Looking to entertain the family this February half term? WESTON Museum has lots of familyfriendly activities and events. There is something to do every Saturday and throughout all school holidays. None are bigger than the annual History Week during February half term (19th27th). You can meet a Roman, learn about what life was like under the rule of the empire and even have a go at some military marching. Learn about life in both the Ist and 2nd World Wars, see some of the weapons and hear about life on the home front. Or why not come face to face with awesome realistic dinosaurs? The main History Week events are free; then there are some supplementary bookable sessions taking place for a small charge. Head to the museum’s website for details on prices and booking. Weston Museum was founded in 1861 by William Mable. A shoemaker by trade, he came to Weston-super-Mare from London. Mable was fascinated by the excavations taking place up at Worlebury
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hillfort and began to put together a collection of natural history specimens. Weston Museum today is housed in a beautiful and distinctive historic building. It tells the story of the town and the
Details: www.westonmuseum.org/events
surroundingarea from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum’s free admission means that it is truly for everyone and is TripAdvisor’s number one tourist destination for the town.
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Showtime at village hall
CLAVERHAM Village Hall has announced its first ever season of live events, featuring celebrity lineups, comedy nights and hit touring theatre shows. It says the regular live performances are an attempt to provide the local area with a much-needed social events calendar. The first show is scheduled for February 12th featuring J.D. King, regarded as one of the world’s leading tributes to Elvis and star of the hit touring theatre show Elvis the Legend. Following this, performances will include The American Four Tops Show, rock n’ rollers, the Firebirds, TV comedy legend and Royal Variety veteran, Mick Miller, Britain's Got Talent comedy star, Ben Langley, West End vocal group, The Four Harmonies, Oktoberfest with the Bavaian Stompers – and much more. The hall is a registered charity and relies solely on a group of dedicated volunteers to keep the venue running as a community hub at the heart of the village. It operates seven days a week and hosts a diverse range of regular activities and private events including line dancing, martial arts and ballroom dancing. The Tannery Bar is also open seven days a week, 711pm.
WHAT’S ON
Farming history at museum
DISCOVER what life was like on the old Abbey Farm this halfterm at the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury. The museum is running a new farm trail throughout the week with lots of activities for all the family to enjoy. They include a “meet the animals” day on Tuesday, February 22nd and a tractor day on Wednesday, February 23rd. On Saturday, February 25th, there’s a chance for some foodie fun in the farmhouse kitchen to find out how people in the past fed themselves during the “hungry gap”. The events coincide with photographer Pauline Rook’s captivating exhibition about life on the Blackdown Hills.
Details: info@claverhamvillagehall.co.uk
Looking for somewhere to host your next event?
DID you know…. The Bath & West Showground officially opened its gates in 1965, as the Royal Bath & West of England Society needed a permanent home for the everpopular Royal Bath & West Show. Whilst the Showground continues to be the home of a whole host of events throughout the year, it is also available for hire. Whether it’s a family party, a business meeting, an outdoor concert, a gala dinner or a school prom, the Bath & West Showground is the perfect venue for just about anything. As well as 240 acres of outdoor space (which includes a lake, a miniature railway, and numerous woodland areas), the Showground also has six sizeable permanent buildings, including the Wessex Pavilion; a recently refurbished two storey Bar & Restaurant. Visit www.bathandwestshowground.com to find out What’s On at the Showground, as well as contact details for the event team, if you wish to find out more about venue hire.
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T H E M E N D I P T I M E S W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E
FOR
WHAT’S ON
F E B R U A RY 2022
As Covid cases are still high we advise that you check that these events will take place. We’re happy to list entries for community groups and charity fundraisers free of charge. Commercial entries £25. Please send entries as a single paragraph of less than 25 words.
Thursday January 27th “Snow Cats and Snow Wolves” talk by former NHU editor Pete Brownlee about films made with Gordon Buchanan. 7.45pm Chew Magna Old School Rooms, £2.50. Saturday, January 29th Sfortzandi Duo Concert: clarinet and piano, 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Yatton, Tickets £10, details: www.yms.org.uk “Comic and Curious” an evening of songs, music & verse, 7pm Allerton Church. Drinks on sale. Tickets £5 from 01934 351098. Saturday January 29th and Sunday 30th Somerset Vintage & Classic Tractor Show Bath & West Showground. Auction 29th. www.somersettractorshow.com Monday January 31st Wessex stationary engine club meeting 8pm Old Down Inn Emborough. All welcome. Congresbury Friendship evening with bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. All welcome. Tuesday February 1st-27th Festival of Snowdrops East Lambrook. NGS day February 10th. See P48. Tuesday February 1st The Arts Society Mendip “The History and Culture of Al-Andulas” Ian Cockburn on the Moorish invasion and culture of Iberia, 711 to 1492. 11am, Croscombe village hall and via Zoom. Guests welcome, donation £6, email: tasmendip.comm@gmail.com Thursday February 3rd Congresbury Gardening Club talk by Neil Ross “Things the gardening books never tell you” 7.30pm Congresbury Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome. Valley Arts Public Meeting via Zoom, 7.30pm, on planning for the future. Our vision is to build a performing arts centre in the Chew Valley. Tickets: Eventbrite. Friday February 4th West Mendip Orchestra rehearses every Friday 7.45pm- 10pm, The Lynch Chapel Winscombe, BS25 1AR. New members welcome. See P66. Candlemas Cattle Fair Frome. See P11. Saturday February 5th Orchard Management Day, Somerset Rural Life Museum Glastonbury BA6 8DB. 10am-3.30pm. Led by Les Davies MBE. £60. Booking essential: www.srlm.org.uk Sunday February 6th Service of Thanksgiving for Her Majesty the Queen, 9.30am St James’s Church, Winscombe BS25 1BX. Ceremonial tree planting 11am Russet Copse, Sandford BS25 5QB, 12.30 at War Memorial Recreation Ground Winscombe, BS25 1AP. Details: 07960 697874. Monday February 7th Congresbury Friendship Evening with bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome. Wednesday February 9th Chandos Society of Artists Beat the
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February Blues social at The Admiral Landing. Details: www.chandosartistssociety.uk Thursday February 10th Blackdown Hills photographs by Pauline Rook, Somerset Rural Life Museum Glastonbury BA6 8DB. 2.30-3.30pm. £5. Bookings: www.srlm.org.uk Thursday February 10th to Sunday February 20th Midsomer Norton Window Wanderland, see P57. Friday February 11th ‘The Poole Harbour Osprey Project’ a Zoom talk for Avon Wildlife Trust. Details: www.keynshamawt.org Friday February 11th – 13th Wildlife Window Wanderland 6-9pm Yatton, Claverham & Congresbury with emphasis on local wildlife. See P7. Saturday February 12th Bunting Workshop for the Jubilee, 2pm Church Centre, Winscombe, BS25 1BA. Details: 07960 697874. Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books etc. Midsomer Norton Wassail. See P16. Meet the Artist: Pauline Rook. Somerset Rural Life Museum Glastonbury, BA6 8DB. 10.30-3.30pm. Book: www.srlm.org.uk Monday February 14th “The History of Clifton Observatory” talk by Mary Coward to the Nailsea & District Local History Society, 7.45pm, Green Lecture Room, Nailsea School. Visitors £2 www.ndlhs.org.uk Mendip Folk Dance Club St James Village Hall, Winscombe BS25 1AQ. 8pm to 10pm. No experience necessary: 01934 742853. Wednesday February 16th Henton and District Gardening Club “Wild Flowers & Wallabies of SW Australia” talk by Hilary Little, 7.30pm Henton village hall, B3139. www.hentongardenclub.weebly.com Thursday February 17th Shipham Gardening Club talk by Ian Anderson: “The Nature of Somerset”, 7.30pm Shipham village hall, BS25 1SG. All welcome. Rotary, Nailsea & Backwell whist drive, Tithe Barn, Nailsea, 2-5pm, £3 inc refreshments. Friday February 18th and Saturday February 19th “Wedmore – have your say.” Exhibition about the proposed new GP surgery. See MT January issue p58. Friday 2-7pm, Sat 9.30am-1pm at the village hall. Saturday February 19th Claverham Market 10am-12pm village
hall. Butcher, vegetables, jams & chutneys, books, jigsaws, crafts. 01934 830553. Jubilee Quiz, 7pm Winscombe Community Centre BS251JA. Details: 07960 697874. Saturday February 19th and Sunday February 20th Shepton Snowdrop Festival. See P76. Saturday February 19th to Friday 25th February Half Term Activities Somerset Rural Life Museum Glastonbury BA6 8DB. 10am-5pm, closed Sun/Mon. Booking advised, see www.srlm.org.uk Sunday February 20th Hedge Laying & Vintage Tractor Run, Cranmore. See P13. Monday February 21st “Steart Marshes – changing the coastlines for our future” talk by warden Alys Laver for Timsbury Natural History Group 7.30pm Conygre Hall. Visitors welcome, £3. Congresbury Friendship Evening with bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome. Wednesday February 23rd Harptrees History Society: “Out of the earth: Bath’s mineral wealth” with Stuart Burroughs of the Bath Museum at Work, 7.30pm, West Harptree village hall BS40 6EG. Please wear a mask. Visitors welcome £3. Booking essential: info@harptreeshistorysociety.org Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support meeting 1.30pm WI Hall. Details:01275 462107. Thursday February 24th Avon Wildlife Trust: Morocco: birds & scenes, talk by Mike Landen & Mark Watson, 7.45 Chew Magna Old School Room, £2.50. Thursday February 24th to Sunday 27th Snowdrops at Yeo Valley Gardens, 104pm. Tickets: www.yeovalley.co.uk Saturday February 26th Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books etc. Concert by the Bold Brass Ensemble 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Yatton, Tickets £10. See P66. www.yms.org.uk Sunday February 27th Elworthy Cottage nr Taunton, open for the NGS. See P48. Monday February 28th Mendip Folk Dance Club St James village hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. 8-10pm. No experience necessary. 01934 742853. Wessex stationary engine club meeting 8pm Old Down Inn, Emborough. All welcome.
RABBIT COMPETITION
To all of those readers still looking for the rabbits hidden in our Christmas cheese competition, they were on pages 7, 56, 86, 105 and the back cover.
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