Mendip Times
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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 11
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Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas
APRIL 2016
IN THIS ISSUE: HEDGELAYING • FOCUS ON CHEDDAR • CYCLING • STEAM MEMORIES • PROPERTY • WHAT’S ON Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news
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CONTENTS
Welcome
WE offer you the chance to win tickets this month to both the North Somerset Show and the Royal Bath and West Show and it’s good to report that they are both doing so well. We’ve news of new businesses in Cheddar, Banwell, Wedmore and elsewhere across Mendip, so it’s encouraging that places like Cheddar village are seeing such a recovery. We also meet the villagers who have bought their shop in Westbury-sub-Mendip. Steve Pointon is a man who likes a challenge – he plans to sail round the entire British coast for charity. His friend and fellow caver Martin Torbett plans to keep him company – by cycling around the coast at the same time. We’ve news of them and other fundraisers in pages devoted to charities and community groups. The 50th anniversary of the closure of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway stirred a few memories – we have a picture special. We also have pictures from our local hedgelaying competitions and two pages from Phil Hendy with a guide to Cheddar’s caves. Sue Gearing’s walk this month takes us to part of the Somerset coast – which nearly became an oil field. With pages devoted to what’s on and all of our usual features and contributors, we look forward to covering a host of Easter events for our next issue. May 2016 deadline: Friday, 15th April 2016. Published: Tuesday, 26th April 2016. Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk Rachael Abbott rachael@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 or: letters@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: Precision Colour Printing, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ 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: Lily-Rose, Jake and Holly-Louise at Shepton Show Hedgelaying. See page 12. Photograph by Mark Adler.
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Getting ahead – charity tea party is a wonder
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All aboard – 50 years of railway memories
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Friends’ grand tour of Britain – one on a boat, one on a bike
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Over the jumps – point-to-point action
Plus all our regular features Environment...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE..........10 Internet and Crossword..............20 Arts & Antiques ...........................24 Food & Drink...............................32 Business ........................................42 Education......................................50 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......53 Walking Sue Gearing....................54 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........56
Gardening Mary Payne MBE ......58 Property........................................63 Caving Phil Hendy........................66 Health Dr Phil Hammond.............70 Charities .......................................76 Homes and Interiors....................86 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE ....92 Sport..............................................95 Music.............................................99 What’s On ..................................100 MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 3
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Market is child’s play for villagers in Oakhill
Some of the stallholders in Oakhill Village Hall
PROCEEDS from selling stall space at a community market and café in Oakhill will go towards the cost of refurbishing the village’s play area for children. Local craftspeople and businesses supported the March market, which followed a successful launch event last November. The next market – in the village hall – is due to be held on Saturday, July 9th.
Hats off to the Inner Wheel ladies!
MEMBERS of Inner Wheel clubs from across Mendip and further afield gathered in Croscombe for a fundraising Mad Hatters tea party. Almost 80 women, dressed in hats of all shapes and sizes, sat down for afternoon tea followed by a talk about tea tasting from expert John Hall. The inter-club event was organised by Shepton Mallet Inner Wheel – club president Gill Davies dressed as Alice and donated four of her Alice in Wonderland paintings to an auction for Children’s Hospice South West.
Carol Price, chairman of Inner Wheel District 20, was the guest of honour
Train now standing at Sandford Station
NEWS
SANDFORD Station Railway Heritage Centre will have a new attraction when it reopens at Easter – an historic Sentinel shunting engine. From 1948 an identical engine, made in the same works batch, operated over the halfmile of track between Sandford Quarry and Sandford Station yard. The survivor was decommissioned from Whatley in 1971 and went to Welsh Mill Playground in Frome where local children spent many a happy hour climbing all over it for the next 30 years. It then became a safety issue and was removed by Hanson’s to stand guard in front of another of their quarries at Tytherington, Thornbury until recent closure. After 67 years the old workhorse was rescued in urgent need of attention and has been restored by experts at Severn Valley Railway’s engineering workshop in the green livery of Roads Reconstruction, the last owners to work Sandford Quarry.
Gill Davies (seated) surrounded by some Inner Wheel friends Pat Jeremiah with her Cat in the Hat creation
Queen of hearts: Rose Haskins
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Fit for a queen . . .
COLEFORD residents led the way in carrying out a tidy-up of their village as part of the Clean for the Queen campaign. They gave up two weekends to scour the area for rubbish ahead of the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations. The clean-up was part of the nationwide clean-up campaign to mark the event and several other Mendip villages took part. The village volunteers were organised by local councillor Philip Ham, who is Mendip District Council’s lead on environmental issues. Philip said: “The main event was over the weekend or March 5th and 6th, but I thought that by doing it over two weekends we would make it more flexible for people to take part.” Coleford led the way in the clean-up
Perils of plastic
THE Sustainable Backwell group are holding a Plastic Planet Day on May 21st to highlight how plastic is polluting our world and particularly our oceans. They aim to show alternatives to plastic, demonstrate how plastic can be recycled into attractive objects and also to show it can be incredibly useful to us too. They will have speakers from the BBC Natural History Unit, North Somerset Council and Surfers against Sewage. They are also starting an Adopt-a-Hedge scheme to encourage people to look after and clean up their "own" local hedge over the year and, hopefully, beyond. One of their volunteers, Ethan, is pictured. The event will be held at Backwell Parish Hall, Station Road, Backwell BS48 3QW 1pm-5pm. Details: sustainablebackwell@gmail.com
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Philip Ham (far right) with some of the clean-up volunteers
Pointing the way
PENSFORD has started a campaign to restore its historic finger posts and will hold an evening of fun and fundraising on May 1st to raise money. Somerset was one of only two counties not to destroy the signs at the outset of WWII. Organisers say the finger posts, dating from the start of the motoring age, are a historical asset worth preserving for both the local community and visitors to the area. Details: Meg Thomas 01761 490327, Janette Stephenson 01761 490352 Lydia Robinson 07711 037681.
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The good . . .
The mad . . .
ENVIRONMENT
FURIOUS residents of a hamlet near Shepton Mallet took matters into their own hands to tackle mounds of litter which had been discarded in an unofficial lay-by. The privatelyowned land off the A361 – which gives access to farmland – had become notorious for groups of young people gathering there in cars. With the approval of the landowner, people living in nearby Bodden cleared the land of rubbish – as well as Bodden Lane – and farmers laid two large tree trunks to deter people from parking. The lay-by before the clear-up
Tree trunks send a message that parking is not welcome
Society chairman Alan Fear (left) and John Brunsdon at work
MEMBERS of Glastonbury Conservation Society have been working to repair a well-used footpath which enjoys spectacular views of Mendip. Parts of Paradise Lane, beneath Glastonbury Tor, have become almost impassible because of thick mud. It is a popular route for walkers between Wick and the town centre and also offers access to the mythical Gog and Magog oaks. Volunteers dug out the worst sections of the path and laid membrane sheets covered with a gravel mix to improve conditions.
The ugly . . .
Lanes around Berkley have become an eyesore
Mark Radford hired in a mini-digger from Paul Sparkes to help with the project
COUNTRY lanes near Frome are to be closed to traffic in a last-ditch attempt to deter fly-tippers. The roads at Berkley have become notorious for the amount of rubbish dumped in the verges and even on the lanes themselves. Mendip District Council says it will renew its efforts to identify offenders and reduce the number of fly-tipping incidents in the area. The first step is to introduce an 18month temporary road closure of Berkley Lane, from the north side of the Pines Residential Site to a point just before the railway bridge before Berkley village. The closure also includes Dark Lane, along its entire length to the junction of Pot Lane. The closure will come into force on Monday, April 11th. Enforcement Officers will strengthen their patrols in a bid to capture evidence of fly-tipping which can lead to successful prosecutions.
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A renewable future for Frome? LOCAL, regional and European experts and pioneers came together in Frome for the first “Switch to a Renewable Future” event in the town. The weekend was attended by 90 delegates from Frome’s twin towns in France, Germany and Poland along with more than 200 people from Frome and the surrounding area. To tie in with the event, Frome Town Council launched a discussion paper to explore how the town could go fossil fuel-free by 2046, and become the first town in the UK to do so. Town councillor Pippa Goldfinger, who chaired a debate on the Friday of the event, said: “The weekend was the best event of its kind that we’ve held. It was a great new way of using twinning, too, to learn good practices from our twin towns who are way ahead of us in the game.” The two-day event covered a range of topics around energy
ENVIRONMENT Pippa Goldfinger chaired the Friday session
M E N D I P
W E A T H E R
S C E N E
Rook Lane Chapel was full for the Friday afternoon debate
Happy (early) Easter
EASTER this year is just about as early as it can be. Easter Sunday can fall anytime between, roughly, March 25th and April 25th, although the rules determining the exact date are complex involving, for one thing, the with DAVID date of the full moon. MAINE No wonder, then, that we experience just about every type of weather over the “Easter Period”, especially as this is a time of the year when weather patterns are changing quite rapidly. After nearly three months of constant wind and rain, the changes may well come as a relief to most people and the weather patterns during spring (and autumn for that matter) rarely stay the same for too long. We all know the saying: “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb” (or vice versa). There has been heavy snow over Easter in the past (I’ve even heard people say you are more likely to get a white Easter than a white Christmas!), but also four glorious days of warm sunshine with temperatures approaching 20˚C. What we get this year is still in doubt as I write, but the equinox will have passed and we will be on British
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efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable lifestyles including finance, low carbon buildings, food waste, river power, and electric vehicles. Speakers included author and solar expert Professor Keith Barnham; Camille Dressler of the Isle of Eigg, which produces all of its energy renewably, Anna Francis, chair of Frome’s own Renewable Energy Co-op (FReco) and Jan Willem, from Mongoose Energy.
Rain dance or sun dance? Morris dancers at last year’s Mells Daffodil Festival on Easter Bank Holiday Monday
Summer Time on Easter Sunday (don’t forget to put your clocks forward one hour), so any anti-cyclonic weather could produce some warm sunshine. Let’s hope so anyway!
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e Chancellor’s March budget confirmed Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) changes that affect both additional residential and commercial properties. Additional Residential Properties: A higher rate of (SDLT) is payable on purchases of additional residential properties which complete on or after the 1st April 2016. SDLT is payable at a higher rate if, at the end of the day of the purchase the buyer will own two or more properties. e existing and additional SDLT rates are as follows: However, if the property being purchased is replacing a main residence that is intended to be sold (but which has not yet been sold) then whilst the higher rate will be payable on the new property a refund is available if the previous main residence is sold within 36 months. Commercial Properties: ere has also been an increase in SDLT rates on nonresidential properties (commercial and mixed use). e new rates apply on all completions on or after the 17th March 2016:
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Getting ready for the show season THE BBC seems to be excelling itself over farming programmes at the moment. Adam Henson gets his slot on Countryfile which is always good, then on March 4th there was Land of Hope and Glory: British Country Life on BBC2 which contained a good piece on the Royal Bath and West Show and an With MARY extensive piece on the Durbin family at JAMES MBE Bickfield Farm. The Bickfield herd of pedigree Guernseys has been plagued with bovine TB for a number of years, losing many cows to the disease. This was the reality of how TB can affect not only a herd but the family as well. Maurice Durbin did exceptionally well, truthfully describing how he felt about the situation in no uncertain terms. When Maurice was loading the cows going for slaughter I suspect there were many viewers close to tears. Next up is a Farming Life programme following farming families in Scotland which is shown on BBC2 on Tuesday nights in a 12-part series which began on March 8th. Such a beautiful country but farming there is tough whether it is on a croft or a larger farm. It’s well worth a look. I hope these programmes illustrate that farmers (with an exception now and again) truly love their animals and put them first before themselves. On April 13th The Bath and West is holding an education day entitled “From Field to Food Learning Day” when 1,000 children will be able to speak to a dairy farmer, watch the milking and taste
the milk. There will be sheep shearing, cheese tasting and cookery demonstrations. Following on from that on April 21st-25th a young lady called Vanessa (Nessie) Reid is constructing a temporary milking parlour and farming discussion forum in the heart of Bristol’s busy Harbourside, in Anchor Square. The daily programme will include milking sessions and opportunities for the public to meet a dairy farmer. This young lady features in a video. See www.the milking parlour.org. She will be in need of stewards and some dairy farmers willing to take part in forums to discuss everything to do with the dairy industry. Please email her at nessiereid@gmail.com or call her mobile 07947 359779. Then it will be time for the North Somerset Show on May 2nd at Wraxall. There will be emphasis on the wonderful heavy horses this year with demonstrations and working in the main ring. There will be a sheep shearing competition along with sheep racing plus all the usual livestock exhibits and the many agricultural stands. A great day out. The Royal Bath and West Show date is June 1st – 4th so there is plenty of time to apply for cheaper tickets online. There are lots of changes this year, with the food area moving to the site which held the Village Green. There will be plenty of seating to enjoy fantastic local food from stalls surrounding the area and a purposebuilt marquee filled with wonderful food to take home. More about this next month. I am writing this article on a morning when there were several reports of sheep worrying – in one case 116 sheep died. They had been herded into a tight group against a fence and gate bordering on woodland. Many of them were pregnant and although they were not savaged they died of fright and suffocation. You may think your dog would never chase sheep but even the quietest dog will revert to its wolfish background given the opportunity. Please, please keep dogs on leads in rural areas and on footpaths. If a farmer catches a dog chasing his livestock he can legally shoot it.
Somerset farmers answer the call Two years ago, when many farmers in Somerset suffered flooding, their compatriots in the north came to their aid with much-needed support. Now, the tables have turned full circle, with Somerset farmers doing their bit to help those in Cumbria, Lancashire, Yorkshire and Durham, still reeling from the after-effects of a series of terrible winter storms. The Barrington Boar pub near Ilminster – on the edge of the Somerset Levels – laid on a farmhouse breakfast event to raise £467 for the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (R.A.B.I), a farming welfare charity that helps farming people in
Details: Pam Wills, R.A.B.I Regional Manager for the South We
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Nominate your farming heroine
UNSUNG heroines of farming and rural communities will once again be celebrated at this year's Royal Bath and West Show, taking place from Wednesday, June 1st until Saturday, June 4th. Nominations have opened for the third Farm Woman of the Year Award which celebrates the often unseen, behind-thescenes contribution Last year’s winner Lesley Bowes (left) of women to the with 2014/2015 joint president Lady industry and the Fellowes communities built around it. Whether it's a hands-on role running or working with a farming business, managing the finances, or someone providing vital emotional support to those around her, judges are looking for women who have truly made a difference. Judging of the shortlisted nominations will take place on Sunday, May 8th and the winner will be announced at The Royal Bath and West Show on Friday, June 3rd. As well as being named Farm Woman of the Year 2016, the winner will receive £500. All shortlisted entrants will receive VIP Ladies' Day tickets to the show. G To nominate someone for Farm Woman of the Year 2016 Award, entrants are asked to tell judges in no more than 250 words what makes the woman they are nominating special and why she deserves to win the award. Entry forms are available online at www.bathandwest.com or for more information contact Julie Kitching on 01749 822235. Nominations close on Friday, April 15th.
all for help
financial need. Since last December, R.A.B.I has paid out £79,000 to flood victims in the north and parts of Wales. The Barrington Boar breakfast event was organised by staunch R.A.B.I supporter Sir John Lushington. Many local villagers attended and pub staff cooked and served all of the meals. In 2015, R.A.B.I gave out grants of £1.9 million to 1,340 individuals/farming families in financial hardship. R.A.B.I also helped farming people to claim £390k in state benefits. Last year, R.A.B.I gave out grants totalling £151,640 in Somerset alone.
h West • Telephone: 01398 361819 • Email: pam.wills@rabi.org.uk
Beekeeper’s president scoops ‘Oscar’
FARMING
Ken Tredgett and Caroline Butter
A FROME beekeeper has been elected president of Somerset Beekeepers’ Association and there was a double celebration for Ken Tredgett when his distinguished service for county beekeepers was rewarded with the equivalent of a “honey Oscar”. Ken, who has been practicing the craft for more than 40 years, said: “I can’t quite believe it! It is a huge honour and a great surprise, to be chosen by my peers to receive the West Country Honey Farms Award.” Retiring president, Caroline Butter, who presented the magnificent trophy, paid tribute to his work for his local division and the county. She said: “He has set up and run training courses for beginners, organised an educational day for more experienced beekeepers and is a honey steward at the Royal Bath and West Show as well as organising our stand there.” Ken’s interest in beekeeping stemmed from his father and he later combined his passion for the craft with supporting members of the Frome and District Division and subequently beekeepers throughout the county. He held the post of Frome secretary from 1974 until 2007 before becoming chairman of Somerset Beekeepers from 2008 to 2010. Somerset Beekeepers is made up of 12 divisions with a total of nearly 900 members. This year’s chairman is Jonathan Friend from Axbridge, the secretary is Dr Richard Bache and treasurer Steve Horne. The association works to advance the craft of apiculture within its membership and to promote general awareness and understanding of honeybees. Details: www.somersetbeekeepers.org.uk
Fuel for thought
DAVID Warburton, MP for Somerton and Frome, joined around 150 farmers in the House of Commons at an event to raise awareness of on-farm anaerobic digestion. AD supports farmers by diversifying their income, treating wastes more sustainably, recycling nutrients and providing green energy. Mr Warburton said: “I’m a huge fan of AD, having just had my own car converted to run on biomethane gas. “Taking advantage of this clean energy not only reduces our carbon imprint, it provides huge benefits for our farming industry by extracting maximum value from organic farm waste and creating cost-effective nutrient-rich fertiliser which helps increases yields and tackle certain pests and crop diseases.”
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Experts and novices at show society competition Photography by Mark Adler
ORGANISERS of the annual Mid-Somerset Show Society hedge laying competition welcomed some new entrants at this year’s match near Shepton Mallet – including the landowners! Novices Simon Dyke and Alex Hoddinott, whose farm at Waterlip was the venue, decided to take part, joining other newcomers including Steve Norman from Bristol, a former gardener who now works for a charity in Bath. Paul Gulliford, from Backwell, was named champion with Winscombe-based Alex Hannam claiming the novice prize. G The competition was the last event in his year of office for show society president Bob Cork. Taking over as president is Lady Caroline Waldegrave. Enjoying success: Alex Hannam (left) and Paul Gulliford
Some of the historic trophies and certificates from past competitions were on show
Show society president Bob Cork with hedge layer Steve Norman
Happiness is… a well-laid hedge. Clive Gibbons (left) and Alex Hoddinott relax after the competition PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Novice Simon Dyke: “I’ve got to come back to finish off the hedge, so I thought I should have a go to learn from the experts.”
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HEDGELAYING
Wrington and Burrington Photography by Steve Egginton
WRINGTON and Burrington Hedging Society’s match was held at Quarry Farm, Redhill, by kind permission of the Vowles family. Chilly weather didn’t deter the competitors and the ladies provided an excellent lunch. Alex Bown was the overall winner and was also awarded the Frank Wear Memorial Cup. Other winners were: best under-25, Alex Hannam; ladies, Lynda Cregan; beginners, Andy Burrough; improvers, James Haskell; veterans, Malcolm Dowling.
Winners and officials
Time for lunch
Keith Lintern from West Pennard defying the wind in the veterans' class Part of the popular beginners' section Dave Brackley from Shepton Mallet
Some of the ladies who prepared lunch
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Something for everyone at North Somerset Show
THE North Somerset Show is a fantastic day out for all, taking place on the first Bank Holiday Monday in May and an opportunity for everyone to experience a traditional taste of rural life. The annual show is held at Wraxall and is an action-packed day offering something for everyone. Traditional livestock and horse showing is at the heart of the day, with rural crafts and sports, local food and drink, arts and crafts along with competitions galore also taking place. New attractions this year include sheep shearing competitions, a dedicated heavy horse ring with judging as well as demonstrations of how these powerful animals have helped us through the ages and Somerset Farmers’ Markets will be setting up a market area offering locally grown and handmade food and drink. For the first time there is a show jumping grandstand where you can take a pew and watch as the jumping bars get higher and the competition tougher. The main ring will be filled with entertainment throughout the day including hunt races, a horse-drawn steam powered fire engine, the grand parade of prize-winning livestock, bale stacking, local hounds, birds of prey, a machinery parade of tractors down the ages, gun dog demonstrations, and the Avon and Somerset Constabulary mounted section. Around the showground other showing sections include poultry and waterfowl, cavies (guinea pigs), alpacas and honey. There will
be tug-of-war competitions running throughout the day and Severnside Dog Agility are putting on their annual dog agility competition. Of course there will also be tractor pulling: the high octane, noisy spectacle of powerful tractors competing to drag a weighted sled along a track. Trade stands form an integral part of the day; you can source everything from a tea cup to a tractor. Find everything you need and more in the three indoor shopping and crafts marquees, the large food hall and spread across the main show field. Celebrating traditional crafts and rural pursuits such as spinning, dry stone walling and gun dog handling, the Countryside Area is a hive of activity (there are also bees!). There’s Fergus the Tractor, the Avon and Somerset Police with their skate park, sheep shearing, farrier demonstrations and of course terrier racing – members of the public are welcome to bring their terrier along and enter them on the day in this madcap race. The Countryside Area rings will be running events throughout the day including Bob Hogg’s Lamb National, Dog & Duck (think one man and his dog...but with ducks), gun dog demonstrations and the South West Axe Men. Advance tickets are available with savings of up to 20% until April 28th (adult £13, child £5, family £32.50). Details: www.nsas.org.uk or call on 01749 813899.
WIN TICKETS
Mendip Times has teamed up with North Somerset Show to offer three free family tickets. Just answer this question: where is the North Somerset Showground? Answers on a postcard to North Somerset Show Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon BS40 7RG to reach us by April 12th. The first three correct answers drawn will win the tickets. The editor’s decision is final.
Share your experiences both good and bad, we’d really like to hear from you. Healthwatch North Somerset gives everyone in North Somerset who uses health and social care services a voice. 01275 851400 • contact@healthwatchnorthsomerset.co.uk
PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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High quality joinery
NORTH SOMERSET SHOW
We’ll see you there!
Come along to the Mendip Times stand at this year’s North Somerset Show
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Have your say on health care
HEALTHWATCH North Somerset exists to give people the chance to have a say about their local health and social care services, including those whose voice isn’t usually heard. It takes public views to the people who make decisions, including having a representative on the Health and Wellbeing Board, and feeds issues back to the government via Healthwatch England and the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The charity is keen to recruit new volunteers. Details: 01275 851400 or email sophia@healthwatchnorthsomerset.co.uk
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Over 30 years’ experience
OVERHILL Kennels is a well-established kennels set in beautiful countryside just outside Bristol. They have been there for over 30 years but are so much more than just a boarding kennel. They sell a variety of both off-the-peg and bespoke dog coats and boots, all of which are Overhill originals. They are the only outlet for the famous ‘Meg Bed’ which is used and loved throughout the world. These products will be on their stand at the North Somerset Show. They also stock a variety of good quality foods & treats for your dog. Overhill Pet Crematorium opened in spring 2009 to offer a personal and empathetic cremation service that they felt was missing in the area. They are all animal lovers and are happy to discuss individual requests and will do their very best to make a painful time just that little more bearable Their boarding kennels are open all year round for your canine holidays. You are more than welcome to look round if you are thinking of boarding your dog with them. They are open 3pm – 5.30pm September – June for inspection. They also have a cattery area to cater for our feline friends.
OVERHILL KENNELS PET CREMATORIUM
At Overhill we offer a sympathetic yet caring professional service for discerning owners who wish and expect their pet to be treated in a caring and respectful way. A guarantee that your pet will be individually cremated and the ashes you receive back will be those of your pet. Other services that we offer: Boarding for dogs and cats. International pet travel. Plus many dog related products.
VISIT US AT NORTH SOMERSET AGRICULTURAL SHOW ON MONDAY 2nd MAY 2016 Or contact us Overhill Kennels, Norton Lane, Pensford, Bristol, BS39 4EY. Tel: +44(0)1275 832489 Email : k9meg@overhill./co.uk • www.overhill.co.uk PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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NORTH SOMERSET SHOW
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Talk to the energy experts
SOLARSENSE design, install and maintain bespoke, award-winning sustainable solutions for homeowners and commercial clients, helping homeowners to reduce their energy bills and future-proof their homes against rising energy costs. They also work with businesses to significantly cut business overheads, improve business operations and increase your bottom line with up to 60% savings on daytime electricity costs. Put simply they say they are energy experts and there’s not much they can’t achieve. Why not pop by for a chat with them at the North Somerset Show?
PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
NORTH SOMERSET SHOW
Chew Moo’s summer showtime
THE Chew Moo's family are looking forward to the busy summer months ahead. It’s very much a family affair, with Simon Parfitt, joining his sister Suzanne and their parents to help keep up with demand. They have also expanded their farm buildings, giving more storage and freezer space. They say they are excited to be attending the North Somerset show, The Bath and West Show and Frome show again this year. They are also still taking bookings for weddings and local events, hopefully putting their new Ice cream trike to good use. Chew Moo's have also been approached by Nessie Reid, who is helping to promote dairy farmers and show the public where their dairy produce actually comes from. Nessie will live with two of their pedigree Guernsey cows from April 21st-25th in Anchor Square near @Bristol. Go along to meet the gorgeous cows that produce milk and cream for Chew Moo’s delicious ice cream.
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INTERNET
RSS feeds
RSS feeds (Rich Site Summary or Really Simple Syndication depending on who you believe!) is a format you can use to get up-to-date minuteby-minute info on the changing content of a website – e.g. if there is a fast-breaking news story, you can get updates sent to your chosen device. Or if you ask for feeds from BBC, it will give you all the latest news on any topic. A lot of people tend to use their smartphone or maybe tablet, as it’s convenient to access when out and about. As always, go through your app store if you want to download a feed – perhaps FeeddlerRSS app on iPad and Demon RSS app on Android. Most modern browsers, including Firefox, Opera, Internet Explorer, Safari and Chrome automatically check for feeds when you visit a website, and display the orange RSS icon when they find one. Many of them allow you to add RSS feeds as a browser favourite or bookmark folder, automatically updating them with the latest content – so Search for RSS News Reader and click on the link for the browser you are using – in my case, Chrome. Click on the Add to Chrome, click Add Extension and you will get the RSS icon in the very top right corner of your browser screen and you can copy a web address and paste it into the feed – right-click (or tap and hold in some cases) and click/tap Copy, then click on the feed icon and click/tap on the + sign in the top right corner. Right-click/tap-and-hold in the box that appears just below where you clicked and click/tap Paste. Now click on the Follow button for the site you want – in this case, the Business Page discussing Google’s taxes. You can organise folders, etc. Click on the X to close that box down, and you get back to your feeds starting point, where they give you some recommendations – in my case BBC News home page. When you are finished, click/tap in a non-active part of the page or click/tap on the feeder icon. When a new feed comes in, the icon gives you the number waiting (four in this case) which gives you a list of the web site (e.g. BBC news) click on that and it gives you the (in this case) 4 new feeds plus some suggestions too. If you don’t want any of these, just click on the New link and it takes that option away. Let’s look at the BBC news page – go to the page with the subject you want to follow, then scroll down and on the right hand side, you should see the BBC News home page. Click or tap on the RSS News Feed and you get an extensive list of items you might want to follow. Click on the one you want, and you’ll get all the latest info. Submitted by IT for the Terrified: The Old Cowshed, Station Road, Cheddar BS27 3AG 01934 741751 • www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. For more in depth information, please contact us. We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you; a session lasts two hours and costs £10. We also run a Computer Drop in session 1.30-3.30 Thursday afternoons. Call in for a quick word of advice/help/info. Or if you can spare two hours a week have skills on any level that you would like to share with others, please get in touch.
PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
CROSSWORD
The Mendip Mindbender
ACROSS 1 First-class source of interest (7) 5 Excellent victory for source of sandcastles ? (7) 9 Ferry might enable Cub to reach Oban in 5 hours (9) 10 Robot man switched on by megavolt relieved of VAT (5) 11 Said to study texts or part of wind instruments (5) 12 No danger this code will keep baby wraooed up (6,3) 14 Recommended horse – a pushover? (3) 16 Almost one of a kind with the singer's part – no doubt (11) 18 Sketch ape as it disturbs those watching the pennies (11) 19 Insubstantial underwater container (3) 21 Turned up prior to finding various contents (9) 23 Criminal mug-shot revealed tree from Ophir (5) 25 Provide a tender ingredient to be consumed (5) 26 A very quiet Italian broadcaster meets little girl for assessment (9) 27 Because the matter is genuine (7) 28 Heads bring in senior police officers to find naturists (7)
DOWN 1 Insertion point includes degree of entertaining acts (7) 2 You need to be open generally in this part of London (5) 3 Third of the giants' wicket ? (4,5) 4 What this sort of person doesn't need to make himself heard? (11) 5 Sometime ago, a Portuguese colony (3) 6 Tough, but should become different (5) 7 Gobble lots of cards to find marine hunters (4,5) 8 Give man lino – a token exchange (7) 13 Infant one up being involved in writing (8,3) 15 Party sent to north Wales for a change (9) 17 Travel permit holds fashionable put down to help make the point (6,3) 18 Pitt abandons typescripts to save the tree (7) 20 Literary hero turned out to have big legs (7) 22 Weight arranged on cue (5) 24 Lawn's ruin has energy enough for the prophet (5) 26 Rowing team said to have 25 (3)
Answers on page 105
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GUY SALMON BRISTOL 809 BATH ROAD, BRISLINGTON, BRISTOL BS4 5NL GUYSALMON.BRISTOL.JAGUAR.CO.UK 0117 9755 200
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Railway nostalgia – the S&D remembered Photography by Mark Adler
STEAM locomotives, miniature layouts and even a vintage bus – just some of the ways the 50th anniversary of the closure of the Somerset and Dorset Railway was remembered. Enthusiasts of a certain age shared the platforms with curious and excited children at Midsomer Norton South station where two weekend of live steam attracted hundreds of visitors. A few miles further down the “line” at Evercreech – one of the most iconic parts of the S&D thanks to the documentary work of Ivo Peters – the village hall was transformed into a celebration of the route, complete with a bus tour of some of the former stations.
Jinty 47406 in full steam at Midsomer Norton South
Midsomer Norton’s own steam loco, a Sentinel, was back in action for the first time after restoration
Imogen Smith, of Evercreech, listens to recordings of S&D locomotives
Bus driver Nick Sommer and conductor Brian Neill with Andrew Tucker, organiser of the event at Evercreech Village Hall
Sentinel fireman Nig Dickinson enjoys breakfast before the next run at Midsomer Norton
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Steve Thorton transforms the Jinty into the much-loved Pines Express
Jinty guard Steve Corke
HISTORY
The refurbished signal box at Midsomer Norton South station was officially reopened by Councillor Ian Gilchrist, the chairman of Bath and North East Somerset Council
Railway artist Jane Riley, of Bath, grew up near East Pennard and remembers trains at Cockmill (the former line runs through the Glastonbury Festival site) and the station at Cole, near Bruton, where she was a pupil at Sunny Hill School
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www.somersetguild.co.uk Through the archway beside Pickwicks
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Workshops at the Guild
MORE space is being created at the Somerset Guild of Craftsmen gallery in Wells in time for its role in a nationwide campaign to encourage more people to discover their creative side. A storeroom at the back of the gallery – behind Pickwicks Café – will become a workshop area in John Candler will be running stone April as well as carving sessions at the guild extending the amount of space available to showcase the work of guild members. The new space will be open by Saturday, April 2nd for Fish, Chips and Peas, which challenges current artists to offer their own interpretations of the title and offer beginners the chance to try their hand at a range of crafts. Sculptor John Candler will be running a free stone carving sessions on the day. Later in the month – Saturday April 23rd – John will host a stone carving course. John said: “Our ambition is to make the gallery more of a venue for other aspects of Wells life by working alongside other groups such as Wells Food Festival; it’s more than a shop!” The guild will this year again be running its competition for furniture makers with a special exhibition in June. As well as an award from the judges there will be the chance for the public to vote for their favourite example of work. The cost of the stone carving course on April 23rd is £55. Details are available at the gallery.
Kate Rattray’s mosaics are on show at the gallery
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ARTS AND ANTIQUES
Clevedon Salesrooms’ historic sale
A SILVER drawing set discovered in the drawer of a Bristol home has sold at Clevedon Salerooms’ Quarterly Specialist Sale for £26,000. The owner had not noticed the significance of the name on the case, which showed it had belonged to John Wood, the famous 18th Century Bath architect responsible for the Royal Crescent and The Circus and who has become known as the architect whose influence formed the entire character of the city. The vendor’s adult son who attended the sale with his mother confessed to regularly playing with the set as a child, but fortunately it had survived over 250 years largely intact. The silver drawing set measured just 13cm high and dates from about 1745. It was made by Thomas Heath of London and comprises a silver rule, an ivory rule, an ivory sector rule and six instruments. The silver fish-skin covered case bears both the engraved coat of arms of John Wood and his name in script. Offered with a pre-sale estimate of £4,000 – £6,000 the set found a buyer willing to part with £26,000 for this unique piece of Bath’s history.
March Specialist Sale highlights
Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers
FREE ANTIQUE VALUATION DAYS 4 5 6 & 18 19 20 April
£2,200
£7,400
9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary Ample free parking
£3,100
£1,950
Free Jewellery, Silver & Watch
Tel: 01934 830111 or 0117 325 6789 The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT www.clevedon-salerooms.com
Valuation Day
At the Salerooms Tuesday 26th April 10am – 4pm
Antiques, Interiors, Collectables & Jewellery Sales Thursdays 14th & 28th April at 10am MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 25
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Top award for Erica Sharpe
WEDMORE jeweller Erica Sharpe has been named Best Fairtrade Retailer at the 2016 South West Fairtrade Business Awards held in Bristol. The award acknowledges Erica’s continuing commitment to Fairtrade and ethical jewellery making. The decision to make some of her most popular products exclusively in Fairtrade silver allowed Erica to increase her contribution to the Fairtrade Foundation for 2015 and has seen demand for Fairtrade silver and gold rise as more customers become concerned about the sources of their jewellery. Erica received her award from Liz Earle (left), the wellknown writer, cruelty-free skincare ambassador and environmental campaigner. At the award ceremony, Erica announced that in future all of her jewellery commissions will be made in Fairtrade gold. She said: “It is time for Fairtrade and ethical jewellery to be thought of the first choice for every special piece of jewellery we make, give and wear, produced with thought and care for all of those involved in its production and the environment.” Details: www.ericasharpe.co.uk/fairtrade-gold-in-thespotlight/
Arts centre celebrates 30 years of creativity
Some of the Black Swan Young Open 2016 winners with Kate Bielby, the mayor of Frome and Amanda Sherida. Pupils from All Hallows School at Cranmore won the chance to stage their own four-week, pop-up exhibition at the centre later this year
FROME’S much-loved Black Swan Arts Centre is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a series of exhibitions and one-off events – and a plea for more people to support its work in the community. Created from a former pub – The Black Swan – the centre has endured its fair share of crises, particularly deep funding cuts, but has continued to provide a focal point for the area’s everincreasing artistic community. Among the special events planned for the coming months are a sale of 1,000 “postcards” – miniature artworks, many by famous artists – a retrospective exhibition and Secret Swans: swan-themed pieces which will be installed around the town in a unique arts trail. Emma Warren, the centre’s part-time manager, said: “Frome and the surrounding area is home to a huge number of talented, creative people who make it such a vibrant place.” The centre’s long-term plan is to turn the Round Tower alongside the centre into a permanent community showcase. Amanda Sheridan, the chair of the centre’s board of trustees, said: “Over the past 30 years the Black Swan Arts centre has been supported by hundreds of people; talented artists and makers, trustees who have worked through some pretty shaky times, dedicated staff, and most importantly the volunteers, without whom the Swan would quite simply sink. After all these years of dedication, we deserve to see the centre go on for another 30 years.”
Mendip Times reduces travel costs
100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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Oriental market still going strong
THE quarterly Antiques, Sporting and Fine Art sale held by Killens at the Mendip Auction Rooms was in full swing when lot 154 brought attention from across the country and China. The lot in question was a set of twelve 20th century Chinese scrolls. With competitive bidding both online and on the telephone the lot sold for £3,600 to a buyer in Hong Kong. Other highlights of the sale included a pair of aquamarine and diamond drop earrings that sold for £1,350 and an interesting early 20th century mahogany specimen cabinet with microscopic slides selling for £900. The sporting sale had much interest with an array of items including firearms selling well. The first sale at the new auction rooms will be an Antiques and Collectables sale on Saturday April 9th at 10am. Already a varied and interesting array of items have been received for this sale, including an autograph book of football autographs
Rare autograph collection to be sold
which it is hoped will bring national interest. The autograph book in question is not full, however it does contain signatures from the Manchester United F.C. team 1955-56. Signatures include Duncan Edwards and Liam Whelan who both sadly died in the fateful Munich air crash of 1958. The autograph book has an estimate of £300 - £500. In addition to this interesting and poignant lot, other lots in in April include a collection of Japanese Kobe dolls. Kobe Dolls are unique to Kobe, and the name is given specifically to mechanical wooden dolls made there. They began
ARTS AND ANTIQUES
being made from around 1890. The dolls included range in estimate from £50 £100. The sale also includes a late 19th century Chinese carved ivory card case with an estimate of £200 - £300; a late 19th century Canton porcelain vase estimated at £120 - £180 and a pair of beautiful Art Deco style emerald and diamond drop earrings with a tempting estimate of £300 - £500. Entries are being sought for future sales and the valuers conduct valuation days every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday or will be content to undertake a free home visit.
The auction rooms can be contacted on 01749 840770 or log onto www.mendipauctionrooms.co.uk
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Vintage fair
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LOOKING for something unusual for your home? Like the vintage look and fancy a new outfit? Then head for the Roxy Vintage and Handmade Fair in Cheddar, on the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, where all manner of different and decorative vintage treasures and clothing will be up for grabs. This popular event returns to the beautiful, historic St Andrew’s Church House, Church Street in Cheddar, on Saturday April 30th, 9.30am – 3pm. Organiser Jill Hunt from Pick and Mix Vintage in Axbridge, said: “We will have a wonderful selection of stalls selling vintage fashion, jewellery and accessories, things for your house and garden, quirky collectables and a range of upcycled arts and crafts made by talented artisan designers.” Admission is £1 per person, under 16s free. Refreshments available. Details: Jill Hunt 07968 782719
Sculptor is a glass act
RENOWNED sculptor Ian Marlow is opening his studio at Buckland Dinham, near Frome, to visitors at Easter to showcase his latest work – stunning pieces using painted stained glass. Ian started to develop the technique whilst working on a commission for Bridgwater Community Hospital which featured his suggestion of using stained glass panels relating the history of the town. He said: “That meant I had to go and learn how to paint stained glass, so I set up the glass kilns here to make the panels. “Then, of course, I started experimenting with using the glass kilns to create my own, more sculptural work. This series of sculptures has developed from that.” Called Spectra, the series is designed more as pieces of interior sculpture, but the larger ones on steel stands are strong enough to be outside; a couple are already booked in for country house sculpture exhibitions later in the year. Each sculpture is handmade in the studio and each is signed and monogrammed with its own number. Pieces start at £200 and go up to £1,500 depending on size and complexity. Ian added: “I’ve always loved glass and the way the light plays through it and through the colours – it’s quite magical. This is of course why it was used in stained glass windows: the images portrayed radiate with life in a way that only light going through coloured glass can do. It’s also why we all love seeing rainbows, and that’s how the name for the series came about - the Latin plural for spectrum.” Just magical – one of Ian’s latest works
Antiques fair
CONGRESBURY’S Antiques and Collectors’ Fair, on Sunday April 24th offers a huge array of antiques and collectibles from old postcards, ephemera and memorabilia to small furniture, books, coins, deco, stamps, Moorcroft, china, jewellery, prints and much more. The event will be open to the public from 10am to 4pm with a small admission fee of only 50p.
CONGRESBURY ANTIQUES & COLLECTORS FAIR THE OLD
SCHOOL ROOMS Station Road BS49 5DX
SUNDAY 24th APRIL 10am–4pm
West Country Fairs Admission: adults 50p
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Tel: 01749 677049
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Plenty of interest at Tamlyns’ sale
TAMLYNS’ recent collectors’ auction held in Bridgwater contained the first part of a huge collection of film lobby cards. Generally they sold extremely well but it was interesting to see that the less well known “B” category films are not so popular. Auctioneer Claire Rawle had catalogued them singly and in groups trying to establish which subjects would be most popular; she was sure that James Bond and Star Wars would do well and so it was with two full sets for Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back selling for £120 and a full set for James Bond Octopussy making £32. Norman Wisdom has always had quite a following and this was proved by two full packs of his films On The Beat and Trouble in Store topping this section at £150. A Butcher Houghton Empire projector with various accessories sold for £200 and a collection of original silent films including Harold Lloyd, Keystone Cops
and others totalled £110. Condition is everything with cigarette cards and there were some interesting lots in this section that were in lovely, clean, near-mint condition – two mixed lots of cards, carefully wrapped in their sets, sold for £150 and £400. Amongst the weapons a de-activated 1939 Enfield Revolver made £300; a deactivated Mauser pistol £350 and deactivated Husqvarna pistol £350. A huge collection of boxed Star Wars toys created “stellar” interest – they dated from the later films but there were hundreds of figures and toys still in their original boxes or on their cards; the collection totalled £1,500.
ARTS AND ANTIQUES
Amongst the railwayana, a set of books The Story of the Cape to Cairo Railway sold for £420 and a GWR cast iron notice “No Admission” £200. Other prices of note were an early 20th century enamelled sign Essex and Suffolk Fire Office £190; a cast bell by Llewellins, Bristol £250; a collection of Esso printed metal signs £600; a collection of early “family” photographs £400 and a collection of modern boxed Corgi vehicles £900. Tamlyns’ next collectors’ sale will be on May 11th. This will include the second section of film lobby cards and a large collection of medical items.
For further information, contact the auctioneers on 01278 445251.
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NEWS
Meet the relatives
ERROL Chandler is preparing to meet some far distant members of his family when he hosts a group of 35 from the US in search of their Chandler family roots. Errol, who lives in Draycott, is the UK vice president of the Chandler Family Association, which is dedicated to researching the history of families with that surname. He’s arranged a trip which will take in Hampshire, Wiltshire and London, as well as two days in Wells and three in Bath. He said: “The Chandler connection to Wells is strong, dating from the christening of Thomas Chandler at St. Cuthbert’s in 1418. In 1452 he was appointed Chancellor of Wells Cathedral. He was also chaplain to King Edward IV.” A sightseeing tour of the city will include the plaque on The Crown commemorating the visit in 1685 of William Penn, founder of the US State of Pennsylvania. In the afternoon of May 14th, the Americans will attend St. Cuthbert’s Church to present a US flag to replace one originally given to the church by American troops who were stationed in Wells before leaving for France after D-Day. The original was stolen some years ago. The rededication service will be attended by the Royal British Legion and the US Embassy has been asked to send a
representative. Errol said he first came across the Chandler Family Association while researching his own family. In the 14th century people adopted their trade as their surname – chandlers originally made candles and then diversified to become more general suppliers. The Worshipful Company of Wax Chandlers dates from around 1330 and a visit to their modern-day livery hall in London established in 1501 will round off the visitors’ tour. Errol’s own research has revealed a relative who was a spy in Russia before the Revolution and strong Victorian links to engineering and mining companies in London and North Wales. His father moved to South Africa and Errol worked there for Unilever before he and his wife Susan came to the UK in 1993. Her family lived in Wrington. Errol and his wife now publish a local magazine, Home and Local.
Details: www.chandlerfamilyassociation.org
Successful marathon
THE Rok the Stones Trail Marathon reported in March’s issue, took place in the Chew Valley on January 30th. The event raised £1,308.37 which was donated by Simon Whittle, the race organiser and director to the Pensford, Publow and Stantons Community Trust (PPSCT). The photograph shows Simon presenting the cheque to Andrew Hillman, chairman of the PPSCT.
PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Queen of Paulton
ALL eyes may be on the Queen’s 90th birthday this year, but Paulton has celebrated the 86th birthday of its own “queen”, Dorothy Bull, with a party at The Hub in the village. Dorothy was elected as Queen of Paulton some years ago to open the annual Party in the Park and she still carries this title. Dorothy said: “I was carried into Holy Trinity Church, Paulton, as a baby and I’m still attending and sitting in the same pew!”
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Some favourite ideas for April Due to unforeseen circumstances, sadly we’re unable to bring you June MacFarlane’s monthly contribution. Instead, we look back at some of June’s favourite recipes for April, some with an Easter flavour. We look forward to welcoming back June in next month’s Mendip Times. HOT CROSS BUNS
14g fresh yeast of 7g dried yeast 400g bread flour 55g sugar 5g salt 6g mixed spice 50g butter (softened) 50g mixed peel 100g raisins 200g warm milk 1 free range egg Cross: 50g flour 50g water Glaze: 30g sugar 30g water
INGREDIENTS
Watercress and potato soup
Have you never made your own? Go on, give it a go! They are much better than bought ones!
METHOD Put the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, mixed spice in a mixing bowl. Rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add the mixed peel and raisins. Make a well in the centre, whisk the egg into the milk and add to the flour mixture. Mix to form a dough and knead until no longer sticky – about ten minutes. Allow to prove in the bowl for about one hour, covered with cling film. Divide into ten pieces, form balls and leave to prove on baking paper lined tray until doubled in size. Towards the end of proving heat the oven to 200˚C. Mix flour and water to form a paste and pipe a cross on to the buns. Bake for 20-25 mins until golden brown. Boil sugar and water together for three mins. to form a syrup. Glaze the buns when they come out of the oven and are still warm.
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WATERCRESS AND POTATO SOUP
Watercress starts to come into season in April and watercress INGREDIENTS soup is a classic of the 300g watercress repertoire. Adding potatoes handful of young spinach gives it a bit more body, but 350g potatoes, cut up still retains the sophistication of its peppery zing. 60g unsalted butter METHOD 500ml chicken stock Rinse watercress and chop 200ml crème fraiche roughly. Put in pan with salt, pepper butter, spinach and potato and allow watercress and spinach to wilt gently. Add chicken stock and simmer until potatoes are soft. Whizz in blender or with hand blender. Sieve into a clean pan. Add crème fraiche and reheat gently. Do not boil. Check seasoning and serve with a swirl of crème fraiche.
RACK OF LAMB WITH A HERB CRUST AND REDCURRANT SAUCE 1-2 racks of lamb, depending on numbers to be fed Olive oil freshly made white breadcrumbs small bunch parsley leaves from three sprigs rosemary 1 clove garlic, chopped ½ glass wine Redcurrant or any other kind of fruit jelly
INGREDIENTS
Lamb – shoulder or leg – is a good choice for Easter, but if you want a smaller, neater cut, go for rack. Buy it “Frenched” with the bones sticking out and scraped clean, or get the butcher to do it for you. You don’t need to start it until about half an hour before you intend to eat it, so gather everything in advance and have the vegetables ready to go.
METHOD Preheat the oven to 180˚C. Whizz the breadcrumbs, herbs and garlic briefly in a food processor. Transfer to a plate. Cut almost through the fat on the outside of the rack(s) in a diamond pattern. Heat some oil in a pan and sear the meat on all sides. Cover the meat with the breadcrumb mixture. Roast in the oven for about 20 mins, depending on taste, until the crust is golden. Remove from oven and rest for ten mins. Melt the fruit jelly and the wine and bubble vigorously. Cut down between the ribs of the rack to serve. Spoon sauce over.
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Easter biscuits
EASTER biscuits are traditionally made for Easter Sunday, the date of which is based on the lunar calendar. It always falls on the first Sunday following a full moon after March 21st. The full moon this year is on March 23rd, therefore Easter Sunday will be on March 27th. This Easter biscuit recipe was given to me many years ago by my dear departed friend Poppy, who hailed from a farming family in Dunkerton and was an excellent cook. Method Cream the Stork and sugar, POPPY’S RECIPE FOR adding the Oil of Cassia at the EASTER BISCUITS same time. Beat in the egg with a little flour. Finally stir in the INGREDIENTS rest of the flour to make soft 8oz self-raising flour dough. Add currants. Place in 6oz Stork margarine fridge to firm up if need be. 4oz caster sugar Roll out on a floured board. 1 whole egg yolk Cut out and bake for Oil of Cassia, eight good approximately 14 minutes. shakes Electric fan oven 180 degrees. 2-3oz currants Enjoy! Oil of Cassia was used to embalm the body of Christ after the crucifixion, hence its association with Easter. It has a strong spicy aroma and has been used for thousands of years to promote health and emotional wellbeing. Cassia and its close relative Cinnamon come from the bark of trees or bushes belonging to the Laurel family. Authentically, Easter biscuits should always have Oil of Cassia. Without it they will merely be biscuits for Easter. Head for your nearest chemist today! Torfreda C. Shellard
Millie is a winner
FOOD & DRINK Country shopping at its best
North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW
MEAT SUPPLIED FROM OUR OWN FARM
EASTER GIFTS AND FLOWERS HOT CROSS BUNS AND EASTER BISCUITS
Sarah Raven Seeds and Spring Plants
Enjoy a good Sunday roast
BEAUTIFUL WEEKEND FRESH FLOWERS
Emma Bridgewater China & other gifts Geoff’s fresh fish every Friday
Centred around a traditional farm courtyard near Chew Valley Lake – the very best in local produce and gift ideas
NINE youngsters from eight local primary schools gathered in the kitchens at Lower Stock Farm, Langford to do battle and determine the Wrington Vale Rotary Club Young Chef of the Year award. The judge Arebella Beecham from Kings of Wessex had a hard choice but decided Millie Mitchell, aged eight, from Banwell Primary School was the winner. She prepared a spinach and cream cheese filo tart with oven-baked mushroom and vine tomatoes followed by a blueberry cheesecake. Wrington Vale president Mike Batchelor presented Millie with an engraved glass trophy and a voucher for £25. The Junior Young Chef completion is now an annual event within the Rotary Club diary.
TEA ROOMS Hot & cold meals Delicious cream teas Full English breakfasts Come and enjoy our lovely Sunday roast lunches
Opening times: Farm shop: Monday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am - 5.30pm • Sunday 10am - 5pm Tea Room: Monday to Sunday 9.30am - 5.30pm
Farm Shop: 01761 220067 Tea Rooms: 01761 220172
Wheelchair access, children welcome, free parking, coaches by appointment
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Easter delights
WITH just a few days left until Easter, you’re either smugly prepared or rushing around to find Easter eggs! At Jon Thorner’s Bridge Farm Shop you will find a scrumptious range of indulgent chocolate treats for the small children, as well as the big kids! Plus if you are serving up the traditional leg of lamb for Sunday roast, new season lamb is now available – at this time of the year the flavour is subtle and delicate and beautifully tender.
APRIL DATES Wells Each Wed 9am—2.30pm
All other markets 9am-1pm unless otherwise marked*
SAT 2nd Axbridge & Midsomer Norton SUN 3rd SFM@Frome Independent SAT 9th Frome (C&G Market Hall) and Keynsham SAT 16th Crewkerne SAT 23rd Glastonbury & Yeovil (9am-2pm)* FRI 29th Burnham-on-Sea
PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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Whatʼs new from Myrtle Farm A round-up of events from Thatchers Cider in Sandford
Thatchers Terrace at The County Ground WE’RE delighted to announce a new partnership with Somerset County Cricket Club, which will see us remain as the Club’s Official Cider Partner for another two years. As part of this partnership we will be working on a new Thatchers Terrace at the County Ground in Taunton. This will be the balconied area situated on the second floor of the new Somerset Pavilion which will enable members and large hospitality parties to enjoy the cricket from an unrivalled vantage point in relaxed and comfortable surroundings. Martin Thatcher says: “We have some exciting initiatives planned this year at Somerset County Cricket Club, in particular the new Thatchers Terrace. We are delighted to continue our association with the club, we share very similar values, not least living and working in the fantastic county of Somerset. We wish everyone at the club a successful 2016 season.”
Chef’s Spring Taster Menu at The Railway Inn
FOOD & DRINK
Knowledge of apple varieties create a truly innovative cider
WE’VE unveiled new branding for our cider, Thatchers Haze. Thatchers Haze is a 4.5% naturally cloudy cider, crafted from Discovery, Falstaff, Gala and Jonagold eating apples to create its crisp, sweet finish. All importantly it’s the juice of the Jonagold apple that gives the cider its all-natural haze. The expertise that we’ve developed into how apple varieties work together to create different styles of cider can be seen in Thatchers Haze. Our cidermakers have a deep knowledge of what each apple does and how it contributes to the cider’s character. Thatchers Haze is a truly innovative cider, where dessert apples create lighter, fruity flavours combined with the quality of a traditional cider.
WELCOMING the Spring and the wealth of seasonal produce that is now available, The Railway Inn is hosting a special Chef’s Spring Taster Evening on Thursday 7 April. There’ll be seven inspirational courses that showcase the dishes chef Matt Brooks will be serving on the Railway’s menu this spring – including a Wild Garlic Risotto and Frampton-on-Severn Salt Marsh Spring Lamb. Matt will be talking to guests about each dish; the wine flight will be selected by Kelli Coxhead from The Wine Shop in Winscombe. Come along and delight your senses with this special chef’s menu. Please book in advance by calling the Railway Inn on 01934 611518. PS, Don’t forget that on Easter Sunday we’re inviting the younger generation to put on their detective hats for an Easter Egg hunt starting at 11.30 (weather permitting).
Cheers and Happy Easter from us all!
www.thatcherscider.co.uk • Don’t forget you can also follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Thatchers Cider, Myrtle Farm, Sandford, Somerset, BS25 5RA Tel: 01934 822862
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By George – inn’s plans for charity festival
PREPARATIONS are underway for the third annual St George and the Dragon charity festival at the award-winning George Inn at Croscombe. As well as celebrating the legend and all things English, the 10-day event will once again raise funds for the Mendip branch of The Langport the Multiple Mummers at an Sclerosis Society, earlier festival a charity close to the heart of landlord Peter Graham and his family. The festivities begin on Friday, April 15th with the opening of a beer festival featuring ales from across the country, all with a George and the Dragon theme. Six local stonemasons will also take part in a competition to carve dragons which will be auctioned at the end of the festival for MS. Other events include quiz nights, English folk song and dance sessions, local dragon legends, cider-making and a medieval feast menu throughout. Peter said: “The parish of Croscombe is recorded as having provided a feast to celebrate St George in 1485, so we are reestablishing a deeply rooted tradition.” Last year’s festival raised around £1,000 and Peter hopes to double that amount. Peter is also turning his thoughts to a rather more energetic fundraiser, again for MS. He organises an annual bike ride from the Mendips, with distances of 60 kilometres, 60 miles or the two combined for 100miles. This year’s ride will be held on The Beetlecrushers perform in the garden of the Saturday, June George Inn 18th.
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Peter welcomes volunteers, sponsors and registrants for both events. For details and enquiries visit: www.thegeorgeinn.co.uk
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GARDEN FOOD
Land cress
With JAKE WHITSON
EASY to grow, and tasting very much the same as its relative watercress, land cress has become a staple green vegetable for me. This is partly because it is so easy to grow – or rather, difficult to get rid of, as I haven't planted any land cress for at least three years, but I let it go to seed and it has carried on popping up ever
since! There are a few other leafy greens which have managed to keep themselves going in my polytunnel in this way – miner's lettuce and mustard greens being among the others – and I have come to rely on these “salad weeds”, which I have stopped deliberately growing but which nevertheless continue to feed me, often when there is little else in the garden. This last winter was mild enough for the land cress to carry on growing straight through the winter, and I have taken to making soups with it as well as adding it to salads. Here's my basic recipe for a green soup, which is easily adapted to any of the many leafy greens which abound at this time of year – nettles, spinach, watercress or whatever you like. First, finely chop an onion, a stick of celery and a carrot and gently fry until soft in plenty of butter. Sometimes I add a little celery seed, coriander seed, or some vegetarian stock powder at this point. Add around a litre of water and bring to a simmer, then add either a fistful of rice or a small potato, chopped (I often use rice, as potatoes have a tendency to make soup a bit gloopy). Simmer until well cooked, then add five or six fistfuls of leafy greens (it is difficult to put too much in). Simmer just one or two minutes more, then thoroughly liquidise with a blender. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with cream and crusty bread. Jacob is a former chef turned food writer, smallholder and mycologist. He divides his time between the Mendips and his nine-acre forest garden project in Pembrokeshire, and runs the business jakeswildfungi.co.uk, making specialist mycorrhiza products for tree planting.
FOOD & DRINK
WILD FOOD
Red gold with a hint of honey?
OKAY, okay I had to try it. My curiosity got the better of me and given the abundance in my garden, I thought to myself well why not? Our garden is full of spring crocuses (Crocus Vernus) and crocus stigmas are indeed the super expensive spice saffron. With ADRIAN However, the saffron crocus is ‘Crocus BOOTS Sativus’ not ‘C. Vernus’ which is related and was historically used for culinary purposes. So against all the research and good reason I had to see for myself: can our common crocus plants produce stigmas that would give me that red gold colouring with notes of honey and hay so beloved of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine? Let the experiments begin! The name ‘saffron’ originates from the Arabic ‘za’faran’ and the cultivated variety ‘C. Sativus’ is believed to have originated from the wild variety ‘Crocus Cartwrightianus’ but underwent extreme selection over time to produce a crocus with stigma significantly larger than the original. Received wisdom has it that saffron is expensive (at times more so than gold) as it only grows in warm dry ecological zones such as the Mediterranean maquis and is rather labour intensive to pick, dry, prepare, pack and transport etc. Whilst most of the saffron today comes from this type of habitat, Britain used to have a thriving saffron industry giving rise to village names such as Saffron Walden in Essex and it is still grown in Norfolk today. Indeed, saffron was historically grown in the West Country, maybe even in Somerset as a cheaper alternative to the saffron crocus. So what of our humble spring crocus? The major difference is the tiny stigma they produce – you’ll have to collect an awful lot more to get anywhere near the same quantity of the real saffron plant. Suffice to say these tiny threads don’t produce much in the way of bulk, colour or flavour in a dish. All is not lost as there is a mild flavour if you put a good few on your tongue to taste but it certainly won’t earn you a fortune. Oh well, it was fun to try and it kept me amused, whilst my wife found my antics quite amusing! Sometimes the real gold is simply to admire and enjoy the bright, cheerful colours of these beautiful spring flowers in our wonderful countryside. 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.
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Three hours of great demonstrations showing you how to get the very best out of your ESSE range cooker Wednesday, April 6th and Wednesday, May 18th @Mendip Fireplaces. 2-5pm We’ll be cooking up a storm with TV chef Tim Maddams’ exclusive recipes for ESSE Join us to learn how an ESSE offers perfect all-round performance, meal after meal. Places are limited so book today Watch out for details of our special cookery demonstrations at this year’s Royal Bath and West Show!
Est. 1977
Fireing your imagination for almost 40 years www.mendipfireplaces.co.uk Tel: 01749 344015 E-mail: sales@mendipfireplaces.co.uk PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Cooking on gas – or any other fuel
THE ESSE range section of the Mendip Fireplaces showroom at Shepton Mallet was filled with the smell of cooking when it hosted the first of a series of monthly demonstrations celebrating the culinary talents of a top British chef. Television’s River Cottage chef Tim Maddams created the exclusive recipes for ESSE to celebrate the versatility of their range cookers. Mendip Fireplaces invited customers to spend an afternoon watching ESSE’s own Dan Blewitt recreate the recipes, using different versions of the cooker, and enjoy the results. The demonstrations are being repeated on Wednesday, April 6th and Wednesday, May 18th and Mendip Fireplaces will host a cookery demonstration on their stand at this year’s Royal Bath and West in June. To find out more, visit www.mendipfireplaces.co.uk or call 01749 344015.
WELSH CAKES – ON THE HOT PLATE
THESE tasty Welsh versions of scones are a classic but I have given them a little spicy twist to make them stand out, they are ideal for cooking straight on the hot plate of the ESSE range cookers or can be cooked in a pan, I INGREDIENTS love to serve them up just 225g Salted Welsh butter, as they are or with a little lard or even dripping soft goats cheese and a 425g Organic self raising drizzle of good runny flour honey. 150g Organic golden caster sugar 2 Medium free range eggs 150g Sultanas The grated zest of one small orange ½ teaspoon of ground cardamon pod A little extra caster sugar, for dusting
METHOD In a large bowl, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs, this can be done in a food mixer if needs be, it helps if the butter isn’t too cold but it should certainly not be soft. Add the sugar, eggs, zest, cardamon and sultanas. Mix with your hands until a firm dough forms, if it needs extra moisture a little cold milk will work wonders. Turn out the dough onto a floured board and roll out until 10mm thick, then cut into rounds to be traditional or random shapes if like me you prefer them – this also means you won't have to re roll any spare mixture which keeps the cakes a little lighter I think. To cook, simply place a non-stick mat straight on the hot plate or use a cast iron pan with butter and then wipe away with kitchen paper. Cook the Welsh cakes for two to three minutes until darkly toasted but NOT burnt, then flip over and cook the same on the other side for an even finish. Serve them warm, they are by far at their best when eaten straight away but can be warmed up later if needs be. ©Tom Maddams
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FOOD & DRINK
Butcombe – the brewer’s tale Stuart Howe is Director of Brewing at Butcombe and is coming up to his first anniversary at the Wrington brewery. It’s fair to say he literally has brewing in his blood. From school his ambition had been to be an engineer, but he enrolled instead on a course in brewing at Herriott Watt University in Edinburgh. After that he worked for Brakspear in Henley-onThames and Scottish Courage before moving to Sharp’s Brewery in Cornwall in 2002. Over the next 11 years he saw production there increase from 10,000 barrels a year to 250,000 barrels, making Sharp’s Doombar Britain’s most popular beer. As brewing businesses consolidated he found himself with Matson Coors overseeing beer production at Sharp’s and at a new brewery at Cork in Ireland. But he says he hankered for a new opportunity at a smaller brewery, where he could refine the brand and create new ones, as he had at Sharp’s. Butcombe fitted the bill. He said there’s the opportunity at Butcombe to double the current capacity of 25,000 barrels a year
and to broaden the range. They are currently producing an Olympic beer for Marks and Spencer, 31 Hop IPA, literally using 31 different varieties of hops, to mark the 31st Olympiad. But Butcombe Bitter, Butcombe Gold and Henson’s Rare Breed remain Butcombe’s most popular beers and he’s prepared to work seven days a week to make sure the quality of the beer is right. He said: “That’s what I’ve been doing for the last 14 years. As a brewer one of the challenges is to come up with beers with more interest and unusual flavours, particularly for younger drinkers. “But the most important challenge is to produce beers in volume that are clean and drinkable. The holy grail is a drink with lots of character that grabs your attention, that’s consistent, but doesn’t leave you so satiated that you don’t want to have another pint.” Butcombe is currently looking to move some of its warehousing and storage facilities from its Wrington site to install more fermentation vessels and increase production.
Butcombe Brewery Ltd., Cox’s Green, Wrington, Bristol BS40 5PA 01934 863903 • www.butcombe.com MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 39
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Cider Barn set to celebrate this Easter
THE Cider Barn in Draycott, Cheddar is celebrating three years in business with a festival this Easter. Pub landlord, Jason Law, who has recently relaunched the business, says that trade is building from strength to strength. Former winner of the Cheddar Valley Gazette’s Pub of the Year award, he says: “It has proved immensely popular with locals and with tourists staying nearby.” The “laid back” atmosphere is attributed to its quirky surroundings and the numerous characters who frequent it. Real fires, great local beers and ciders as well as popular lagers, wines and spirits are on offer.
THE CIDER BARN BAR & FOOD WHERE THE STAFF ARE REALLY FRIENDLY AND SLIGHTLY MAD
Quirky, relaxing bar/café/takeaway, cider and ale barn Great collection of both real cider and ales Somerset Tapas – great little snacks & home cooked food (or coffee/tea and cake)
THE STOVE GETS LIT ON COLD AND WET DAYS, COME AND PUT YOUR FEET UP, KICK BACK AND RELAX – AND ORDER ANOTHER CIDER WITH US !
TELEPHONE: 01934 741837
LATCHES LANE CROSSROADS, DRAYCOTT ROAD, CHEDDAR BS27 3RU, ENGLAND
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Jason’s passion is food and Landlord’s Revenge, a speciality dish, is a particularly challenging chilli. Homemade curries, casseroles and pies also feature on the menu. Thursday night is Steak Night and is proving very popular indeed. Music is a strong feature of the Cider Barn and on Sunday afternoons you will often find local artists strumming away to the delight of a packed bar. This Easter sees a full programme of acts like Richie Triangle, a renowned Bath busker of huge talent, local celebrity band The Redhillbillies and the amazing Ed Crowley. Cooking and entertaining on Sunday will be Simon Dyer, winner of ITV’s BBQ Champ 2015. The Cider Barn prides itself on supporting local suppliers and local causes like the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and the local school.
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FOOD & DRINK
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Catering for trades and DIY
A Professional Company serving the South West
DICKIES Factory Shop on Second Avenue, Westfield Trading Estate in Midsomer Norton has an excellent range of new workwear for 2016. With style, functionality and quality being paramount in driving the Dickies business forward, it has over 90 years’ experience in workwear manufacturing and generations of workers have found Dickies to be a brand they can trust. New for this year are Eisenhower
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Premium shorts which follow the popular Eisenhower Premium trouser which was the must-have work trouser for 2015 with a mix of premium fabrics, rip stop in cordura, with a clever design of pocket details (zip off holster pockets). For 2016 Dickies have also introduced two-tone polo shirts, the Riverton Polo shirt and the Lewiston jacket, with power stretch in softshell black with grey contrast.
Wayne Rawlins, manager of Dickies Factory Shop said: “The team at Dickies Factory Shop take great pride in being your Dickies workwear and safety footwear specialists. We are designed to cater for the trades and DIY enthusiasts.”
Burglar Alarms 0 Fire Alarms 0 CCTV Systems 0 Insurance approved 0 Installation, maintenance, repairs and upgrades 0 Central Station Monitoring 0 Local engineers Tel: 01275 331914 sales@chewvalleyalarm.co.uk www.chewvalleyalarm.co.uk
Relax knowing your property is protected
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BUSINESS
Insurance broker expands west ANTHONY Jones Insurance Brokers was established in 1984 in Bromley, Kent. The company say they are proud to have added a further office in Bristol based in Coombe Lodge, Blagdon led by Steve Green. Steve joined Anthony Jones as a director from Zurich Insurance, where he spent 29 years in a variety of leadership positions within its UK General Insurance business. Steve was responsible for developing Zurich’s major corporate customer proposition and latterly as head of its corporate business segment. Anthony Jones offer insurance and risk management advice. Their commitment is to customer service. Experienced staff take the time to listen to your requirements in detail to ensure they give you the right advice, drawn from their wealth of experience – and yours. They are your insurance experts for your needs. They operate across a number of business sectors with a particular focus on transport and logistics, intellectual property, electronic cigarettes, charities, SMEs with a need to protect their online
Steve Green
reputation. Anthony Jones look after a number of high net worth individuals who require personalised insurances. Their focus is to find insurers who provide insurance that is purposely designed to reflect the lifestyle you lead.
They work closely with their insurer partners to provide solutions for classic, luxury and high performance cars, high value homes and unusual constructions, fine art, antiques and other valuable collections, jewellery and family heirlooms, second homes and holiday homes, UK and overseas properties and yachts, sailing and speed boats Steve said: “A poorly managed insurance choice based on price alone can very quickly outweigh that short term saving. Make sure your broker helps you to improve your risk profile and have in place risk management measures that puts you in as much control as you can in managing the cost of insurance. “Think carefully about your choice of insurance broker. It matters that you partner with people who understand your sector and the insurance market that caters for it. Experience matters. We are all fiercely proud of every customer we serve from the largest insurance buyer to the smallest and everyone in between. Give us a call, email us or take a look at our website to see what we can offer.”
Insurance and risk management advice
Giving you the security you need, from the name you can trust Anthony Jones Insurance Brokers Coombe Lodge Blagdon North Somerset BS40 7RE
Tel : 01761 461 509 Web: www.anthonyjones.com Email: steve.green@anthonyjones.com
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 43
Photo by Ignyte Limited Radstock
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What’s happening in Wedmore?
WEDMORE has long been known as a premier shopping destination for Mother of The Bride and Occasion wear, but recently a more informal and casual element has been added to the village with the arrival of Lime boutique from Clifton and now Pale Blue from Clevedon. Pale Blue has been in Hill Road Clevedon for six years and this is owner Jane Brake’s second venture. She said: “I am excited (along with Claire from Lime) to be adding a slightly different dimension to the village and really hope to add to and enhance Wedmore’s retail community. “Wedmore has managed to preserve what so many of our villages have lost
over the years. A thriving supportive community means Wedmore still has its own fishmonger, butcher, deli, village store, chemist, antique and vintage store, gift shops and gallery and gentlemen's outfitters to name a few. “But also Wedmore combines this with being a nationally acclaimed shopping destination for ladies’ wear, with brides and their entourage often staying over at local hostelries The Swan and The George in the heart of the village.” Pale Blue’s signature style is Glasual (glamorous/casual), lots of easy wear and relaxed fitting styles. A large and beautiful selection of jewellery and scarves means that day wear can easily
be transformed for the evening. If you haven’t been to Wedmore lately, now is the perfect time to visit with all the boutiques full of lovely new spring styles. Make a day of it or combine it with a visit to Wells or Glastonbury. But make sure you are long enough in Wedmore to sample lunch and or coffee and cake in the amazing array of eateries.
Pale Blue Women’s clothing and other lovely things
1 The Borough, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB Email: paleblueclothingltd@yahoo.co.uk
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BUSINESS
Don’t be fooled by tax changes Answer the phone – properly! OH joy! It's April and together with the leaping of lambs and the coming of spring we can look forward to the awakening of the imagination of the Chancellor and his buddies in the treasury! Apart from anything else that might emerge in the budget (still in the future as I write this) there is already another dastardly plan to extract more tax in a way which doesn't break his promise not to increase general tax rates. This doesn't just affect business people, so, whoever you are (and that includes my painting chums) read on. The way investment income will be taxed is changing from April 5th this year. As always with any tax change, there will be winners and losers. Good news first: most working people with modest levels of savings will be better off because the interest they earn on savings will no longer be taxed and banks will no longer deduct tax at source. Retired people who may depend on investments to provide most of their income could suffer from the introduction of a new dividend tax of 7.5% on dividend income in excess of £5,000 per annum. Further bad news for members of both these groups is that they may find that they need to complete tax returns for the first time because they have new tax to account for. BE PREPARED! I wish I could end this piece by shouting April Fool! Sadly that isn't the case. I do hope you aren't stung too badly, and may your April Fool's day tricks be funnier than the Chancellor's! Jane Bowe Probusiness
MEMBERS of Wells Chamber of Commerce have identified a growing skills gap in their younger colleagues caused by changes in our communications culture. A generation ago most school leavers would already have experience of answering the home phone and dealing with a wide range of callers. That rarely happens theses days. Faced with the office telephone, many support staff now struggle to have the confidence to answer a business call and ask the questions required to route calls effectively or take sensible messages. Now the chamber has teamed up with city-based TelePA to offer a seminar on Wednesday, April 20th at the Mendip Hub in Southover, Wells. TelePA answers thousands of business telephone calls every month and
has developed a training programme to take participants from zero to hero levels of confidence in half a day. Supported by the chamber, members can benefit from a subsidised cost of £20 per delegate (non-members £49). To book contact Judith Ludovino at TelePA on 01749 685601.
Business Phone Calls – A Gold Standard for Managing Telephone Enquiries 20th April, 9.00am – 1.00pm Mendip Hub, Southover, Wells £20 for Wells Chamber members, £49 for others • Substantially increased confidence • A thorough understanding of the importance of first impressions • Practice using a high quality greeting for callers • A five point plan for managing enquiries • Confidence checking spellings and using the phonetic alphabet • A five point plan for taking messages Places are limited to 12. To book: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-phonecalls-a-gold-standard-for-managing-telephone-en quiries-tickets-22572541078 Wells Chamber of Commerce: 01749 685236 or email: jcl@telepa.co.uk
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Crowds set to flock to bird fair THE popular Chew Valley Bird Fair takes place at Chew Valley Lake on Friday April 22nd and Saturday April 23rd. The annual fair provides nature lovers, bird watchers and photographers with a great day out in the country. It takes place on the lawns outside London Camera Exchange’s Lakeside Optics shop, next door to Salt and Malt, giving visitors the chance to view, get expert advice and buy, while testing out the equipment against this spectacular backdrop. There is also the opportunity to trade in old equipment in part-exchange. There will be a variety of talks and workshops by experts, including Chris Sperring from the Hawk and Owl Trust and Hamish Smith, co-ordinator of the Bath peregrine project. Groups attending include Avon Wildlife Trust, Bristol Ornithological Club, the British Trust for Ornithology, the Hawk and Owl Trust, the RSPB, the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and Mendip Hills AONB. Wildlife artist Martin Rumary and wildlife carver, Roger Francis will be showing their work. Exhibitors will include many of the major suppliers of cameras, binoculars, lenses, tripods and other equipment, plus a local company Nep-in-Sri Travel, which offers tailor-made holidays to Nepal, India and Sri Lanka for wildlife and birdwatching.
P & C Logs
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).
C a l l Ph i l o n 0 77 3 4 09 83 2 3, or C o l l ee n o n 0 77 8 5 25 00 3 3 o r o n Ev en i n g s 0 1 76 1 22 1 5 43
ECATCHER MOL
NO MOLE NO FEE
TOOL SHARPENING SERVICE WHILE–U–WAIT @ BATH, TROWBRIDGE, STREET, TAUNTON, CADBURY, WELLINGTON, EXETER. For full details and prices contact: www.cuttingedgecraft.co.uk franksynekartisan@gmail.com
Telephone 01275 332966 mendipmolecatcher.co.uk
Tel: 07562 717620 PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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Turbulent times for taxpayers
BUSINESS
AS another tax year draws to a close, many small businesses and buy-to-let property investors are facing some fairly daunting actual and rumoured tax changes for 2016/17 and over the next few years, warns Rod Podger of accountants, Underwood Lamb. Proposed changes to the way dividend income is taxed may benefit some taxpayers but could mean a large increase in personal tax for members of family owned limited companies. Those same companies and other small employers may also be facing the onset of workplace pension reforms and having to automatically enrol their staff into a company pension scheme for the first time. Buy-to-let investors are also facing changes in stamp duty and restrictions to allowable deductions which could mean large tax increases for many. He said: “We are working with our clients to prepare for these changes and to try to mitigate any negative effects wherever possible. At Underwood Lamb we are always happy to have an informal discussion with potential clients without any obligation to see if we can be of any assistance.” Details: Rod Podger 01275 332612 rod@ulco.com
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CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY
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BUSINESS
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New tax from April
ALL company directors and shareholders should be aware of the new legislation which comes into effect next month. This now charges an additional rate of 7.5% tax on dividends over and above £5,000 per annum. You can be sure that this rate of tax will increase in years to come. If you have not taken any action to advance dividends into this tax year to avoid the additional charge, then in most case you are now going to be £1,000s worse off, warns AHB Accountants. Do not be fooled into resorting back to salaries for the future, they say. There are various other ways, under current legislation that could be employed to avoid this additional tax but as always with tax savings, you must plan ahead. Details: AHB Accountants 01275 333623.
We are a local company in the Chew Valley with easy access to Bristol and Bath and we specialise in: • Account Preparation • Book-keeping • Payroll • Company Secretarial • Inheritance Tax Planning • Personal Tax Planning • VAT • Tax Investigations • Tax Returns and Self Assessments • New Business Start Up FREE INITIAL MEETING T 01275 333623 F 01275 333253 W www.ahbaccountants.com
Call 07860 923 816 or email info@jmc-ibs.com with your specific requirements. PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
The Tannery, Westway Farm, Bishop Sutton, BS39 5XP Contact amy@ahbaccountants.co.uk
Page 49 April:Layout 1
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School gets top marks
ST BENEDICT’S Catholic Primary School is officially a good school, as judged by both Ofsted and Clifton Diocese during the two inspections that took place just before Christmas. The leadership and management of the school were praised at all levels by Ofsted for the way they are working so hard to raise standards of progress and attainment across the school. It was stated that “the school is now well placed to continue to improve to ensure every child is given the opportunity to succeed at St Benedict’s”. Behaviour was also praised and the children’s contribution to the life of the school acknowledged.
St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School Charlton Road, Midsomer Norton BA3 4BD ‘Growing Together Through Christ’
Where every day is an OPEN DAY
Please call 01761 418594 to make an appointment We are a smaller than average school and pride ourselves on our caring approach and our ability to meet every child’s needs, helping them develop and ensure they reach their full potential, whilst growing in the love of Christ. We welcome children of all faiths. We also offer wrap-around care as well as an independent on-site Nursery Come and see for yourselves what the St Benedict’s experience can do for your child.
PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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The real measure of academic excellence PRIOR Park College headmaster, James Murphy-O’Connor, could not be more proud of the large group of Prior students who have just been offered places at Oxford and Cambridge and/or scored the highest grade in the Extended Project Qualification, a free-standing A2 qualification that is designed to stretch the more ambitious scholar. With four Oxbridge offers just received to study subjects as diverse as physics, music and English, along with A* grades awarded for EPQ projects ranging from Replacing Chemical Rockets in Space Propulsion to The Fallen Woman in Victorian Literature, Mr MurphyO’Connor sees these results as more measurable of the school’s academic ambition than the league tables. Indeed, Prior Park College has joined a growing number of quality independent schools around the country who are turning their back on league tables as an accurate measure of their academic achievement. Recently, Wellington
College announced its intention to remove themselves from the tables, joining Eton College, St Paul’s and Winchester College who have already made the move. Mr Murphy-O’Connor is adamant that the value of league tables is questionable when so often statistics are not fully inclusive of all data, such as IGCSE. He said: “We are currently in a state of flux in the United Kingdom with many new qualifications and grading measures being introduced.
EDUCATION
“Some of these are not fully understood or represented; over the past few years the nationally and locally published league tables have shown Prior Park College, along with other similar independent schools, with a 0% pass rate – this is because the government does not recognise IGCSEs, which our students sit and, in fact, the real figure is 97%. “Our Oxbridge offers and EPQ results provide a real measure of our students’ academic excellence – and I heartily congratulate them.”
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 51
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Dear Mendip Times, Thank you for my March copy, received today. I do enjoy reading it. There are so many interesting articles sandwiched between the ads. I always read Mary James MBE and am pleased to see that she is still campaigning for the dairy farmers (I remember Mary from Elmhurst Grammar School). I was interested to read about Fred Davies in the caving article recently and remember my brother caving with him many years ago. I also enjoy West Countryman's Diary and Dr Phil Hammond’s article. My neighbour, who is from Sussex, also enjoys reading your magazine and loves to read the strange names of our villages in Somerset. I have enjoyed your magazine for many years, courtesy of my former school friend, Ann Feher who lives in Southampton. We have lived in Canada for over 40 years but grew up in Glastonbury and Street, respectively, Angela Beaven Ontario, Canada
Dear Mendip Times, I’m not sure if many people in our area know about this, so thought it might be useful to share via your office – perhaps an avenue to spread word of this new service. We came across it completely by chance – we had tickets for the Hippodrome in Bristol and while planning our drive and parking from home (Langford) into Bristol, I just happened to mention to my husband shall we check online to see what public transport options there might be? We had peeped a while back – bus routes amazingly long and indirect for us from Langford, and sometimes offering a route of bus to Worle followed by train into Bristol! So it was fab to discover and share finding this new (since Valentine’s day) coach service, travelling between Plymouth and Bristol – and stopping for pick-up/drop off in Langford, on the A38 adjacent The Churchill Inn. We tried it, from Langford. Fantastic! Into Bristol from Langford in 40 mins! So comfortable, direct and tickets easy to purchase (issued by the driver as you get on). It also stops at Bristol Airport which is fantastic to know, plus it’s a frequent service! We thought it would be helpful to share this discovery, thinking, like us, many people in our locality may not know about it. We just came across it by chance! We will certainly use this coach service again – we were impressed and it’s a true competitor to usually using our car. As an intro offer, every trip was only £1 in February. We think it’s normally about £5 for the trip from Langford/Bristol return! And accordingly for longer routes between Plymouth/Bristol. You can find details at www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-andoffers/south-west/fly-the-south-west-falcon It would be fantastic if the service gets support to make it viable and to continue but how can we help to spread the word on this? Last week, we emailed the secretary of our local parish council to share – she emailed in reply: ever so interested and has ideas for spreading the word via the parish "Tower" magazine and parish/council links. With a copy of your Mendip Times here (picked up locally), we thought perhaps another avenue to share this new "getting around" service? In our rural locality we struggle to use public transport with what has been available – always in mind that we would love to use it more – with this new coach service we feel we can! We are sure your time will be hectic – sorry if not the correct contact for this – just sad if people do not know about it. Linda and Brian Halsall Langford
PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
LETTERS
Dear Mendip Times, We were offered some chickens earlier in the year as our neighbours were moving and unable to take them with them. I was given a cockerel and three hens. It wasn’t long before I noticed that “Betty” was being constantly bullied, pecked by Gertie, Rosie and George.
I bought some spray to discourage the behaviour but it didn’t work. I separated Betty as I was worried and allowed her to wander around the garden and at night shut her in a cage in a shed. She showed her appreciation with an egg every morning. The other hens slowly allowed her to tag along but she would never eat with them. In time Betty was also introduced back with the others to sleep in the same compartment. But she was always the last to make an appearance in the morning and they would never allow her to get too involved with daily life. Betty was an outcast, that was certain, but her daily egg was gratefully received with Gertie’s and Rosie’s. Then three eggs became two and “Betty” started to grow at an enormous rate. As the transformation began her comb grew, dangly bits under her chin grew and feathers on her tail became magnificent. “She” also started to crow. The ugly hen has turned into a beautiful cockerel. This is not a myth but a true story, although George is still in charge in every sense of the word. I wonder if any of your readers can offer any explanation? Mrs Betty Bullus Holwell, near Nr Frome
Dear Mendip Times, A lot has been going on in the Avalon Marshes in recent years. In particular, the Heritage Lottery funded Avalon Marshes Landscape Partnership (AMLP) has brought significant investment. There are new bird hides, heritage trails, replica buildings, leaflets, interpretation panels and an Avalon Marshes website; and there have been education projects with local schools, volunteer training events. In addition, two special events are taking place in early June. The first is on Saturday, June 4th at Strode Theatre in Street. The second is on the following day, Sunday, June 5th, an expanded Avalon Marshes Open Day. More details of the whole weekend will be posted on the Avalon Marshes website and via the regular enews “Messages from the Marshes”, which you can sign up for at www.avalonmarshes.org We look forward to seeing you at these exciting events! The Avalon Marshes team
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WILDLIFE
Watch out for the redshank AS the weather warms, so we start to take more frequent visits to the sea; local to Mendip that will be probably be somewhere along the By CHRIS Severn Estuary. SPERRING The estuary is MBE known for its international importance with regards to birds that occur at different times of year. One medium-sized wader that you may encounter will be the redshank. It’s quite likely that your first impression of this bird will be as it flies at speed from the foreshore uttering its double pipping alarm call. One the first physical features you may notice are the red legs as, typical for a wading species, these are long compared to body size. Half the long bill nearest the face is also red, with the end of the bill black. The front is creamy white with heavy brown vertical streaks. As most people’s view of this bird is flying away from them you see the upper parts and wings, which are brown with white leading edge. In flight, the bird shows a well-defined white streak down its back. A wader of this size will be hunted by raptors such as the peregrine falcon; the white flash from the back is clearly a distraction for predators, whilst most of the other colours and markings seem to be adapted more for melding in to the muddy background that it’s feeding on and, of course, when nesting on tall A redshank in flight
Redshank are a common sight along the Severn Estuary
grasses. Breeding begins in April and pairs that are experienced breeders will try to remain “site faithful” and return to the same nest areas even after many generations. The courtship display is worth watching out for as the male starts his yodelling song; this is done as part of what is described as the song flight, as he also flutters his wings descending towards the female. They can nest on the coast or at inland sites and the nest, which is on the ground, is mostly tall grasses. The nest itself is a small depression, with initial construction done by the male. The female then lines the nest with twigs, leaves and mosses. Normally four eggs are laid and are incubated by both adults; the young, which take around 25 days to hatch, are up and walking away from the nest at 24 hours old. Young are then watched over by sometimes the male and sometimes both
adults until they fledge properly at around four weeks after hatching. As a wading bird they don't actually spend a lot of time probing deep into mud with their long bills; in fact they spend more time searching through rock pools and around the waters edge, feeding on a wide variety of food from spiders through to worms, crustaceans, tadpoles and, occasionally, fish. As mentioned redshank can occur on inland lakes, marshy areas and farmland, so your redshank encounter may indeed happen away from the foreshore; however, most people these days who visit the sea for recreation are probably going to encounter more of these waders here. A number of sites are worth visiting to see redshank as they can be found anywhere along the Severn Estuary and some of the nature reserves within the Somerset Levels are well worth a redshank visit. A word of warning, though: redshank, like all other birds, are vulnerable to disturbance when they are nesting. The best way to enjoy birdwatching at this time of year is from a distance with binoculars or, of course, visit a hide on one of the many nature reserves that we have. Indeed, in a hide birds like these will come very close to you without feeling threatened. Whether we are just enjoying watching birds or photographing them, always remember that it’s crucial they are allowed to breed in peace without disturbance; with so many species declining they really need to be allowed to produce for their next generation. Enjoy Redshank watching.
Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust. Contact him on 07799 413 918 or via chris.sperring@btinternet.com. Please visit www.swp.hawkandowl.org for more information
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 53
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A walk along the Somerset coast
A TRIP out from Mendip for a fascinating spring blow along the West Somerset coast – a site of special scientific interest – with amazing beach rock formations and fossils and widespread coastal and Quantock views. For me a highlight was visiting three peaceful and quite isolated small churches. It is an area with a fascinating past – the site of a potential Somerset ‘oil boom’, an area where conger eels were chased on the beach and where fossils of all kinds have been found in the cliffs. Enjoy views down the coast to the Quantocks and across to Wales. From Kilve pill, turn inland and then follow field footpaths across to Kilton. The last part of the walk is along very quiet country lanes to reach my favourite little church in a field at Lilstock. Wrap up warmly as it is very exposed along the coast. There is no refreshment en-route. The circle is virtually flat and easy and follows good paths and tracks as well as some field footpaths which should be reasonably dry underfoot. There are very few stiles and it will make a popular dog round too. It is very tranquil and you are a world away from nearby Hinkley and the development of the power station that is in progress.
With Sue Gearing PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
PARK: At the good size car park at the back of Lilstock beach. To approach Lilstock go to Kilve on the A39 Bridgwater to Minehead road. Shortly before the village (if coming from Bridgwater) on a bend, turn right following signs to Lilstock. Follow small country lanes, through Kilton, and then on to Lilstock. Just past Lilstock Farm on a bend, go left on a wide dirt track signed to the car park (free). START: Take the stony track through the gate out of the car park.
1. LILSTOCK BEACH This soon brings you to the edge of the estuary to Lilstock Beach so full of history and memories. In the 1830s, the landowner Sir Peregrine Acland created a private road between his house at Fairfield and the cliff above the harbour and built a wooden house there for his delicate only daughter. A promenade along the cliff became a recreation for the local gentry and in the 1860s and 1870s pleasure steamers plied between Lilstock, Burnham, Ilfracombe and Cardiff. In those days Lilstock must have been quite a lively place. Even in the early 20th century there was a beer house opposite the church called The Limpet Shell. But it wasn’t all pleasure at Lilstock. From way back there was a port here for the Saxon settlement of Stogursey. And around 1820 another of the Aclands built a boathouse on the beach with a pier and breakwater. Coal was brought from Wales for domestic use on the Acland estate and to fire the large limekiln on the cliff. Pit props were the main export along with lime. By 1848 there were resident coastguards and by 1855 a customs officer. About 1860 a stone pier was built from the north side of the harbour wall. By 1866 warehouses were standing beneath the cliff beside the southern harbour wall. The limestone carrier the Richard was wrecked at Lilstock in 1881. The harbour was apparently abandoned after a particularly violent storm at Christmas 1900 and the
pier finally destroyed after the First World War. Take time to go down to the beach, although there will be plenty of opportunities later. The faulting and rock strata along the cliffs here is known as the “Lilstock Formation” and is of great interest to geologists and fossil hunters providing an outstanding series of rock sections from the Early Jurassic period. The cliff and beach are rich in reptile remains, including complete skeletons. Lilstock also yields ammonites, shells and fish remains. A unique specimen of an ichthyosaur, found in one of the Lower Lias beds on the foreshore at Lilstock, is now in the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery. After soaking up the Lilstock atmosphere, turn left along the coast noting the fascinating intertidal strata on the beach and the way it changes as you go along. Expect to see many different sea birds too. Soon pass a fortification/observation shelter tucked into the edge. Go through a gate and continue on the soft grass along the low cliff. Can anyone tell me what the lines of rotting wooden posts on the beach were for? All would not have been peaceful here, even not so long ago. This area was designated as a Royal Navy range. The sea here was used as an air gunnery practice range connected to RNAS Yeovilton and Lilstock Royal Navy Range served as a practice bombing range for fixed-wing aircraft until 1995, when it changed to a helicopter gunnery range. 2. QUADRANT HUT Reach the concrete range quadrant hut and further on the look-out tower for the gunnery range. Lift your eyes inland to see the Quantock range ahead and look down the coast to Minehead and beyond. Maintain direction on the track along the edge and then follow the footpath sign which continues on the coastal side of the track and heads you down to Kilve pill and beach.
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3. KILVE PILL The stream that flows out here provides a fresh water pool at the back of the beach and when I came a solitary swan was dibbling in the fresh water which flowed out over the beach. This used to be a tiny port for importing culm, an inferior type of coal, used for lime burning. And the pill was long associated with smuggling – legend has it that barrels of spirits hidden in the chantry were deliberately set on fire as the revenue men appeared on the scene. There are benches on the beach here if the weather is clement enough for a picnic or at least a stop. Better not try to light a fire – as the oil shale on the beach is very flammable! Here years ago you may have witnessed the local sport of “glatting”. A glatt is the local name for a conger eel. Organised by a local gamekeeper, glatting was pursued by groups of men during the low tides of autumn when there was the greatest expanse of estuarine mud at the foreshore at Kilve. “Fish dogs” such as spaniels and terriers nosed under the rocks to identify the conger eels concealed in the thick mud. Using four-foot wooden sticks (glatting irons), men then levered up the embedded rocks and both men and canines would pursue the powerful and fierce eels towards the sea and somehow manoeuvre them into sacks. The glatters were likely to be bitten as they fought to sack the congers so it wasn’t a sport for the faint of heart. Glatting flourished in particular during the lean years of the two World Wars, but had died out by the 1950s. Take the path inland to a noticeboard about Kilve pill and the brick oil retort built in 1924, when it was discovered that the shale found in the compressed layers of shale cliffs was rich in oil. In 1924 Dr Forbes-Leslie founded the Shaline Company to exploit them. This retort house is thought to be the first structure erected here for the conversion of shale to oil but the company was unable to raise sufficient capital and this is now all that remains of the anticipated Somerset oil boom. Carry on, passing the ancient chantry in great danger of tumbling down but shored up and being restored. The chantry was founded in 1329, when a brotherhood of five monks was employed to say Mass for their founder, Simon de Furneaux. This carried on until the late part of the 14th century. For centuries it served as a barn for the adjacent farm. 4. KILVE CHURCH Continue on to the first of our three churches, the whitewashed very pretty
WALKING
5.2 miles, about 2-3 hours, plus time to explore. OS Explorer 140 Quantock Hills & Bridgwater, grid ref: 171 4520
church of St Mary’s which has seven centuries of history. In the vestry is one remaining carved arch of the ancient screen. The tower has recently had a considerable amount of restoration work. Carry on and take the first turning left, Hilltop Lane. Cross the stream and then a mill leat and the lane rises. Just before the bend, go left on the track. At the end, ignore the permissive path straight on. Instead, turn right through a Bristol gate and follow the left hand field edge – with possible muddy patches here at the start. There’s woodland and a stream on the left. Cross the first stile of the walk and continue along the left edge.
5. FARM Go through a large woodland gate and pass Lower Hill Farm. Turn left crossing a ford on stepping stones and up along the grassy track which leads to a field. There are no footpath signs along this section, but it is all a right of way. Now follow the right edge along the hill, with good views over to the coast, particularly of Steep and Flat Holm, and your earlier route. Continue into the next field looking down on the hamlet of Kilton and our second church. Reach a gate, head across and down to a gate and stile onto the lane at Kilton. 6. KILTON CHURCH Follow the lane left and up and around. Bend left and soon reach the mellow stone church of St Nicholas dating from at least the 11th century. This is a “wayfarers’
church”, an amazingly peaceful sanctuary and very welcoming with all kinds of books, photos and literature inside and even soda water and biscuits, when I came. St Nicholas is situated in the foothills of the Quantocks overlooking the Bristol Channel. The grounds have many wild flowers, there’s seating to enjoy the sun and views. Decommissioned in 2004, St Nicholas was due to become a controlled ruin with roof removed and walls capped. But it was saved and it is now run as a non-denominational drop-in prayer and daytime retreat centre.
7. LILSTOCK CHURCH Simply follow the lane on. Ignore a turn right and then look for the short path on the right to St Andrew’s Church, Lilstock – a church in a field which in spring is a beautiful wild flower meadow. This tiny gem of a church has only two rows of pews. It features a 14th century chancel arch – the only remaining part of the earlier church. It was declared redundant in 1980 but thanks to dedicated volunteer work, was restored around 1993 and now holds one service a year. The most recent baptism in the church was in 1881 and the latest wedding was in 1834. It’s back to the lane and on, up and round. After Lilstock Farm go left on the track to the car park. There is a good pub at Kilve after the walk, the Hood Arms, tel: 01278 741210.
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 55
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OUTDOORS
West Countryman’s Diary
EASTER eggs, new born lambs, daffodils and fluffy yellow chicks are some of the things that may spring to mind whenever Easter is With LES mentioned. Well DAVIES MBE perhaps nowadays the daffodils are out in January, the lambs born in the autumn, the chicks will be hatched all year round and the Easter eggs appear in the shops as soon as Christmas is over. Climate change not only affects our weather, it seems to be affecting our seasonal celebrations as well. Easter has always been a moveable feast because its date is determined by a lunisolar calendar and not the normal Gregorian calendar which is governed by the sun and seasons. So it is that Easter will float about a little. As a person who has to take his boots and socks off to count over ten, the computations of how the date of Easter is actually determined are way beyond me. Spring is here, but will the spring-like weather we would normally associate with it necessarily follow? It could be like looking in the box of your latest purchase off the internet, only to find that something essential you needed to run this new bit of “whizzo” kit has been left out. In the countryside life seems to have a way of balancing itself out and things will carry on very much as they have done before. Nature, however, can still pull a few surprises. I can remember a “white out” snow storm on Mendip at Easter and snow in April. Working the land has to be done when the time and conditions are right and not when the seed packet tells you. I'm still waiting to get onto my garden. When the sun shines everyone feels happier and that’s not just the human population. I think we are all pretty well wintered-out by now, even though this seems to be the warmest winter on record. I'm still pushing on with the orchard work and with the cider varieties starting to move a little later, I'm hoping for some extra time. With the evenings becoming lighter, my heart lifts a little and working on a bit longer is not such a hardship when you
enjoy what you do. This is early March and a blackbird is busy building its nest in the hedgerow at home. Soon his song will fill the evening air and I will know we are into spring. I have quite gotten into this social media thing lately, not to just put anything on there, but draw attention to what's going on in my world. I often see something that’s worthy of comment, although I can fully appreciate there are others who would not necessarily be so excited as me about certain things. My old 1.3 mega-pixel camera that seems to amuse so many people, can still take a reasonable picture and one suitable for such a purpose. The countryside is a constant source of inspiration for me and I am forever seeing something different, or something familiar in a different light. It is sharing this with others that gives me huge satisfaction and my Twitter account @westcountryman1, is still being followed by some of those students from the University of Georgia USA that I spent time with last year. They tell me how much they miss this landscape – how good is that! April showers, sunshine, wet and dry are all part of the month of April and it doesn’t take much to bring things on in these conditions. It’s also a vulnerable time for wildlife with nesting birds and young animals around. If you are out with the dog take extra care, not only around farm livestock but amongst the hedges and walls as well. The adder will have emerged from hibernation and during the early days will need plenty of sunshine to warm its weary bones. Inquisitive dogs are an unwelcome intrusion for the adder who will lie still in the hope that this unsolicited attention will pass by. If it should fail to do so, the resulting strike and bite is the only way this reptile can defend itself. Look after yourself as well; look before you sit and before you put your hand on the wall by the stile, “Hissing Syd” may only have just woken up and be in a grumpy mood. For me, the flowers at this time of year are the thing that really catch my attention; banks full of primroses, the purple dog violet that hides beneath the hawthorn bush and those heralds of
spring, the yellow celandine and white wood anemones. As the month moves on the woodland will fill with the white flowers of wild garlic. Just in time for my birthday in May, the bluebells will carpet the woodland floor, while the shy and retiring early purple orchid will hide amongst the crowd. Catkins hang from the hazel bush shaking like lambs’ tails as they spread their pollen. I remember seeing a yew bush on the side of Burrington Coombe shed its pollen. The whole tree shook as if the trunk had been struck and a thin yellow cloud dropped from its branches to drift slowly up the slope with the gentle rising breeze. How such a thing happens I don’t know, but it does and that’s all I need to know. A moment of true magic that may not have floated everyone’s boat, but certainly did for me. Don’t forget that summer time begins on Easter Sunday this year, March 27th, and All Fools’ Day or April Fools’ Day is Friday April 1st. Watch your back and don’t believe everything you read in the press (apart from Mendip Times that is). There have been some very good ones in the past, what will be the star of this year I wonder? Finally this month’s picture is full of feel-good and inspiration. Taken by Ann Phillips from Blagdon, it’s Blagdon Lake early in the morning, when the “Wrapper” is still on a new day and no one has got it dirty yet. It’s what Mendip is all about; history, mystery, myth and magic. If you've taken an inspirational picture on your favourite bit of Mendip, why not share it with me? Although I can’t promise to put them all into West Countryman's Diary, I would like to put some in.
You can always contact me through my website: Westcountryman.co.uk
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YEO VALLEY
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T h e g r a s s i s g re e n e r – f o c u s o n l a w n s EVERY year the weather sends us a gardening challenge and after such a mild but incredibly wet winter our lawns are crying out for attention. The mild weather encouraged the grass to keep growing but the above average amounts of rain meant there was also a lot of cloud cover and few With MARY bright sunny days. PAYNE MBE This meant the grass has grown even longer, drawn up by the lack of useful light, especially in enclosed or partially shaded areas. Add to this that even if we had the will to get out and mow the grass it was never dry enough and the soil was too saturated. The combined result of these conditions results in lawns looking somewhat shaggy and unkempt. So, April is the ideal time to pour some tender loving care onto your lawn. Once everything dries out enough to mow, do not be tempted to rush in and cut it low. Set the mower on a higher setting and top the grass off for a couple of mows. The persistent rain will have washed much of the available soluble nitrogen down so a good spring feed is ideal. This usually comes packaged along with a moss killer and weed killer. This is not a marketing ploy to charge you more but is actually an ideal combination. The weed killer kills the weeds whilst the plant foods encourage the grass to grow and colonise the spaces left by the now hopefully dead weeds. The weed killer used in these products is what we call selective. That means it kills broad leaved weeds like dandelions, buttercups and selfheal, whilst leaving the grass untouched. It is therefore vitally important that you do not allow these products to stray onto adjacent borders. So take care to measure out the amount required for the area of your lawn and spread it, either using a spreader, or carefully by hand. The effect of the herbicide on the weeds is not instant and may take a week or two before they start to look sad. The hormone in the weed killer causes the foliage of the weeds to distort. Another result of the mild, wet winter has been the proliferation of moss, also encouraged by the dull, cloudy conditions. Moss in lawns is the result of a variety of poor conditions. Areas of lawn that stay wet can be aerated to improve conditions, whilst poor sandy soils can be improved by the application of fertilizers and a top dressing. Lawns on very acidic soils can be improved by liming and areas of lawn shaded by overhanging trees may be helped by crown lifting of the lower tree branches. The two remaining causes of moss are cutting the lawn too close. This is easily remedied by lifting the height of cut on the mower. Finally, drought conditions in summer weaken the grass and allow the mosses to get a hold in the autumn. This can be helped during the summer by allowing the grass clippings to stay on the lawn, provided the lawn is cut regularly. This adds valuable organic matter which helps retain moisture. Those of you with mulch mowers will rarely find your lawns suffering from drought as the clippings are chopped very finely and blow back into the grass, without leaving unsightly dollops of grass clippings on the surface. This style of mower is ideal for larger gardens. It is rarely necessary to water lawns in the UK. The grass may lose colour during extreme drought conditions but once the PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Yes it's Astroturf
rains come it leaps back into life remarkably. We are lucky to live in a part of the world where our lawns are the envy of many other countries. Ferrous sulphate (iron sulphate) is added to the spring Weed, Feed and Moss products to kill the moss. Once again this needs to be spread evenly and rapidly turns the offending moss black. The lawn can then be scarified to remove the moss. Scarifying a lawn before killing the moss is false economy as you simply spread the moss from one area to another. After scarifying spreading some more grass seed over the lawn (over-seeding) will help to thicken up the sward if it is rather patchy. If all this “lawn talk” sounds too much trouble and you have a small area of grass then why not consider replacing the real lawn with an artificial one. No longer need a “false” lawn look like the old green grocer’s shelves draped with bright green plastic “turf”. The new products on the market are excellent and offer a wide range of shades of green, or even yellow or purple if you feel like it! You can even choose whether you wish for short or longer “grass”. It is ideal for heavily shaded areas that fail to grow good grass. These products must be laid on a firm surface and I would recommend letting a professional do the job. Rain soaks straight through and so will your dog’s wee, without leaving bald patches. Artificial turf is used by a variety of National Trust gardens where narrow grass paths suffer from too many feet (see picture). I have watched folk walk from proper grass to artificial grass without even noticing the difference and are amazed when it is pointed out to them. I enjoy the challenge of growing a decent lawn, and in a small garden the lawn needs to be perfect as every weed shows up, but for those who find it a chore then the thought of no more mowing, scarifying, top dressing, feeding or weeding may seem tempting.
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GARDENING
APRIL GARDEN TIPS
G Remove the bubble polythene double glazing from your greenhouse, clean the glass and check that the ventilators work. Get ready to apply a coat of Coolglass to the outside to keep the temperature under control. G Prune side shoots on grape vines back to five leaves on non-fruiting laterals and two buds beyond flower clusters. G If you have raised your own plants and your greenhouse is unheated, keep the plants on a bright windowsill indoors for a few more days. G Sweet corn can be sown in cell trays inside but delay planting out until next month. G Marrows, courgettes, pumpkins and squashes can be sown in individual pots towards the end of the month. These will need protection if sown outside. Peat pots are very good for this. G Plant basil in pots or in the borders between your tomatoes. It always does better inside. G Feed citrus plants with a higher nitrogen liquid feed. G Consider buying a cold frame to ease the strain on space in your greenhouse at this time of the year. It is ideal for hardening plants off prior to planting them outside. G Trim your lawn edges as this simple task has a remarkable effect on the overall impact of your garden. If the edges have become irregular, use a half moon edging knife (stainless steel ones are best) to sharpen them up. G Apply weed killers this month and next for best effect. Courtesy Cleeve Nursery
Timberwork Buildings Bespoke buildings to suit you We specialise in the manufacture of quality standard and bespoke garden buildings to suit your individual needs including:-
WORKSHOPS/GARAGES GARDEN SHEDS
Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists
John Deere Walk-behind mowers Designed and built for years of service, our Select Series mowers will keep your lawn looking at its best for years to come. They’re comfortable and easy to use and provide a professional finish, even in difficult conditions. Best of all, they come with a 15 year warranty on the aluminium mower deck. TURBOSTAR SYSTEM
ADJUSTABLE CUTTING HEIGHT
SHELTERS & STABLES PLAYHOUSES Let our dedicated team assist you in your choice whatever your budget . . . Full design, installation and delivery service available – customise your shed to suit your needs
We also do: Chicken Houses Dog Kennels • Bin & Log Stores YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT US AND SEE OUR SHOW MODELS – OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
THE TIMBERYARD • SHUTE SHELVE • CROSS • NEAR AXBRIDGE Tel: 01934 732 396 • www.timberworkbuildings.co.uk e.mail: timberbuildings@aol.com
Behind Shell Garage Winterstoke Road, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS23 2YS
Tel: 01934 626093/813261 www.westongarden.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 59
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MENDIP TIMES Norton Green Farm Garden Centre and Nursery WELCOMES YOU THIS SPRING • Veg., plants, herbs, fruit trees & soft fruit • Conifers, roses, shrubs & trees • Summer corms & tubers, begonia, dahlia, gladioli etc. • 2016 seed collections by Unwins, Fothergills, Johnsons, Marshalls & Country Value etc. • Grass seed; fresh cut turf available to order (weekly deliveries) • Good selection of pots & containers inc. special offers • Compost, mulches & bark inc. multi-buy special offers • Wild bird food & feeders • HTA National Garden gift vouchers Also available: • Gravel & grits, paving & walling • Fencing, posts & trellis etc. • Turf available weekly to order LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10.30am-4.30pm
Wells Road, Chilcompton, Nr. Bath Tel: 01761 232137 E. nortongreenfarm@tiscali.co.uk
Terms & Conditions apply
UNIT 7, GREEN FARM INDUSTRIAL ESTATE CHAPMANSLADE BA13 4JJ
01373 832965 • www.mendipmowers.co.uk PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH
Watcombe Garden
THIS ¾ acre garden in Winscombe was created in a traditional, Edwardian style during 40 years after World War II, as small areas of land were acquired by the owners. The resulting series of “rooms”, each with a different feel, can be explored throughout April, May, June and July, when the garden is open. A strong formal framework is produced by different effects. In one area, a pergola supporting wisteria (and a few of the 80 clematis in the garden), leads to a pond and fountain; in another, regular box hedging, and cordonpruned fruit trees provide the structure; elsewhere, pleached hornbeams frame another pond and classically-inspired summerhouse; a lime walk, under-planted by narcissi, has the statue of a small cherub as its focus. The small garden at the front of the house contains unusual topiary, rockeries and perennial borders, with several unexpected shrubs; alongside the house is a vineclad pergola. Another route takes one past espaliered fruit trees and a tiny vegetable patch, to the greenhouse, which holds a collection of cacti and succulents, alongside the more conventional tomatoes and cucumbers. The main part of the garden, where deep herbaceous borders are planted informally, but with different colour themes, is reached through a small arched gateway. A ‘secret garden’ is tucked away to the side, bordered by yew hedges, and contains old-fashioned roses and hardy geraniums.The main beneficiaries of the NGS scheme include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Hospice UK, Carers Trust, The Queen's Nursing Institute, Perennial and a guest charity: Parkinsons UK. NGS opening details: April 24th, May 22nd and June 9th from 2pm to 5.30pm. Admission: £3.50, children free. Also by arrangement from April to July, any size of group welcome. Details: Peter and Ann Owen, 01934 842666 or email peter.o@which.net Address and postcode: Church Road, Winscombe, BS25 1BP To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book or local county leaflet available from local garden centres, or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk
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Gardeners’ reward
GARDENING
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NURSERY MASBURY, NR. WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 3HA TEL: 01749 841014 FAX: 01749 841055 www.rockymountainnurseries.co.uk
COME & SEE OUR FINE RANGE OF FRUIT TREES, SHRUBS, GERANIUMS & FUCHSIAS HEATHER Clewett (left) and Sally Monkhouse have received a certificate and an inscribed trowel from the NGS garden charity marking the tenth anniversary of them joining the scheme. They have transformed a rubbish-filled valley at Bishop Sutton into Truffles, a wonderful secluded garden. The presentation was made by the mayor-elect of Taunton Deane, Cllr Vivienne Stock-Williams at the NGS’s annual reward lunch for Somerset garden owners. Barry and Jenny Hibbert, from Pound House, Stogumber, also received a tenyear award. Lucy Hetherington, county organiser since 2008, stepped down, handing over to Laura Howard.
Visit our MASBURY’S CAFE Serving breakfast, lunch & afternoon tea Delicious homemade meals. Sunday Roasts, Outside catering, buffet lunches delivered, themed cuisine events. Telephone 01749 841155 for further details.
Browse around JAMES STORE S e e o u r w e b s i te f o r m o re d e ta il s www.rockymountainnurs eries .co.uk
ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES –
Laura Howard (left) and Lucy Hetherington
Details: Truffles will open again for the NGS on July 2nd and 3rd, with groups also welcome that week. Call 01275 333665.
Mendip Times reduces travel costs
100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 61
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Consult the expert
GARDENING
HAVE you ever bought plants for your garden and then been disappointed with the effect? Following the success of courses at Stoke Lodge in Bristol, professional garden designer Christine Pritchard has extended the range of venues to include Radstock and Taunton. As well as Stoke Lodge, starting April 22nd and April 23rd, this course is also available at Somer Valley Campus (formerly Norton Radstock College) on Thursday evenings in April and May, or Dillington House near Taunton in June (Wednesdays daytime). Christine will introduce you to a range of trees, shrubs and perennials that will be suitable for your garden and with her expert guidance you can create a planting plan for your own borders. You don’t need to be a knowledgeable gardener or fluent in Latin to enjoy these informal courses. Details: Christine Pritchard 01761 221166 info@christinepritchard.co.uk
Garden Design • Planting Schemes • Horticultural Consultancy Courses in Gardening and Garden Design www.christinepritchard.co.uk • info@christinepritchard.co.uk tel: 01761 221166 • mobile: 07966 172282
PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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Unique opportunity to create an exceptional country home
PROPERTY
GODNEY is a vibrant village set on the idyllic Somerset Levels surrounded by nature. A unique opportunity has arisen to purchase a property that will allow a delightful country home to be created. Myrtle Farm has been in the same ownership for generations and planning permission has been granted for the replacement of the redundant farmhouse with a substantial five-bedroom house.
Set in eight acres of paddocks and charming orchards, the property is within easy walking distance of the village and the renowned Sheppey Inn. There is great potential for the creation of a truly exceptional home. Adjoining Myrtle Farm is a range of modern agricultural buildings, with scope for a range of uses, together with almost 11 acres of paddocks. These are being offered separately to Myrtle Farm but clearly there is an opportunity to develop a 20-acre “country estate”. Both lots will be offered by auction on May 12th. Also being offered at the auction are a 2.6 acre paddock at Wookey and a cottage at Stoke St Michael.
Details: Killens, 10 Sadler Street, Wells, BA5 2SE. t. 01749 671172. E. wells@killens.org.uk
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 63
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South West sees a surge in sales THE South West has seen the highest rise in sales across the UK for the last three months, according to the latest residential survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. Some 49% of surveyors said they experienced a rise in sales rather than a fall and further increases are expected over the year ahead. New instructions to sell also increased more sharply in the South West than anywhere else in the UK as 34% of surveyors saw an increase in new listings rather than a decrease. New buyer enquiries in the South West rose for the 12th month in succession with 49% more respondents seeing an increase in demand rather than a fall. Again this is the most significant
increase across the UK. The rush to acquire buy-to-let property continues to contribute to the upward pressure on prices with 74% more surveyors in the South West reporting prices to have risen in February. Across the UK the rate of house price inflation is predicted to slow as April’s stamp duty changes are introduced. Only 21 per cent of UK respondents expected prices to increase over the coming three months and in London 38% expected prices to decrease. But 42% of South West surveyors still expected prices to increase rather than decrease. However, the survey showed that South West respondents are expecting a slower rate of sales growth post the buyto-let rush with only 22 percent expecting to see an increase in sales rather than a fall over the coming three months. RICS chief economist, Simon Rubinsohn, said: “Over the past three months we have witnessed a surge in buy-to-let activity. Since the Chancellor
EMBOROUGH, RADSTOCK, SOMERSET For sale by private treaty 69.55 acres of productive arable/pasture land in two lots. The land has the benefit of mains water and direct road access. The land is unencumbered by footpaths and is being sold with the Basic Farm Payment included.
Glastonbury Office 01458 834288 Guide Price: £600,000 BUTCOMBE, WRINGTON, BRISTOL To be sold by public auction on Tuesday 24th May. A threebedroom detached farmhouse in need of some improvement, set in an elevated position with far reaching views towards Blagdon. Adjoining selfcontained annexe. Range of traditional and more modern agricultural outbuildings offering development potential. All set in about 50 acres of pasture land. To be offered for sale in lots.
Frome Auction office 01373 455060 Price On Application
made his Autumn Statement announcement last November, investors have rushed to purchase homes before the stamp duty surcharge comes into effect. It is inevitable that over the coming months April’s stamp duty changes will take a little of the heat out of the investor market. “While there remain significant doubts as to whether the Government’s plans to encourage a more robust development and construction pipeline will be sufficient to address the housing crisis, long-term price indications for the housing market remain strong with respondents still expecting them to rise by a further 25 percent over the next five years.” G In response to the Budget, RICS welcomed the devolution deal announced for the West of England region. It also welcomed the government’s focus on finding a solution for holiday-homeoccupied tourist areas but said more information is needed on how the additional funding will deliver the homes needed across the region.
New equity partner
COOPER & Tanner say they are delighted to announce that from April 1st Tim Hector will become an equity partner of the firm. On leaving college Tim qualified as a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors before joining Cooper & Tanner in 2007. He subsequently went on to become a fellow of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers; he became an associate of the firm in 2013. Tim provides professional advice to clients on a wide range of subjects including valuations for secured lending and tax assessment, planning, compulsory purchase and compensation claims, Basic Farm Payment submissions and advice, tenancy and occupational agreements as well as being one of the auctioneers at Frome livestock market. Tim is based in the Standerwick office near Frome and covers a wide area across the Mendips throughout Dorset, Wiltshire and down to the Somerset levels. Tim was born and raised on his parents’ farm just outside Wedmore and has recently moved back to the farm with his wife Laura and their two children. Laura herself works in the Frome branch of Cooper & Tanner. Details: Tim can be contacted at the Standerwick office on 01373 831010 or by email tim.hector@cooperandtanner.co.uk
PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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PROPERTY
Historic house in Hutton
THE Coach House, Hutton, a handsome detached house, has just come onto the market this spring with David James & Partners at Wrington. Located beside the parish church at Hutton, it has an archetypal village setting with lovely southerly views to the wooded slopes of the western end of the Mendip Hills. Dating back several hundred years, it was the coach house to Hutton Court and housed horse and carriage in bygone years. It has now undergone some extension and improvement and offers a delightful family home with large well-proportioned rooms with high ceilings and attractive windows overlooking the garden. Some buyers may feel they need to update the interior with new bathroom and kitchen and the minor re arrangement of rooms on the first floor will create a fourth double bedroom and en-suite. The property is being offered for sale by auction at a guide price £550,000 unless sold prior and more information is available from David James & Partners in Wrington 01934 864300. G In contrast to The Coach House is The Barn at Norton Farm – a traditional stone and tile agricultural building with planning for conversion into a four-bedroom dwelling in an elevated position with 2.21 acres. The Barn’s position commands superb views across its land and countryside to the coast beyond. It is a rural location on the outskirts of Kewstoke, North Somerset and being offered
as a whole or in lots. The planning granted offers single-floor accommodation with hall, open-plan sitting, dining and kitchen, three double bedrooms, a single bedroom or study, cloakroom, bathroom and en-suite shower room. The property is being offered at auction (unless sold prior) on Tuesday May 10th at Mendip Springs Golf Club, Congresbury at a guide price of £305,000 for the whole.
Artists impression – The Barn Norton Farm Kewstoke BS22 9YR
SEE US AT THE NORTH SOMERSET SHOW AT OUR STAND NEXT TO THE MEMBERS TENT
MENDIPS HILLS, NR. BLAGDON
MARK, SOMERSET
Farmhouse with 55 acres and miles of far reaching views over the Mendip countryside. A detached house with well proportioned, high ceilinged rooms over two floors. Two principal reception rooms, conservatory, office, utility and cloakroom, four double bedrooms and family bathroom. EPC: F ref: 24834 PRICE GUIDE £995,000
Detached house with over 2.5 acres. Former car dismantling yard with a detached family home with large outbuildings, yard and 2.68 paddock and orchard. The accommodation comprises four bedrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen and conservatory. The site still has a valid car dismantling licence. Ref: 24929. EPC: E PRICE GUIDE £470,000
Detached cottage with good size garden & paddock, lovely views on the outskirts of the village. A super cottage with 3 bedrooms and 2 reception rooms. Stone & tile outbuilding, tandem garage and loads of potential for extension (subject to pp). Country views over adjoining farmland and south over the Mendip Hills. Garden and PADDOCK. (Available as a whole or in lots). EPC: E. Ref: 24783 PRICE GUIDE £370,000
Semi detached cottage with large garden and double garage. An Edwardian cottage with .25 acre of south facing garden located in traffic free environment down long drive. Two reception rooms, 2 bedrooms (bathroom occupies third bedroom), kitchen, two porches. Flagstone floors, open fire range, ledge and brace doors. Rural location with views. EPC tbc: First time on market in 60 years! PRICE GUIDE £349,950
WRINGTON
REDHILL, NR. WRINGTON
Wrington Tel: 01934 864300 MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 65
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Not just Gough’s and Cox’s – a guide to Cheddar’s caves
White Spot Cave
wife and extensive family of children. The cave may have been connected at one time to Cooper’s Hole, but deepening of the Gorge by meltwaters after successive glaciations has separated the two for all time. Two large caves are to be found high up on the left side of the Gorge. Long Hole, also known as the Roman Cave after the artefacts found there, can be seen shrouded by ivy above Gough’s Cave. A roomy ascending tunnel ends in a high chamber, with crawls in the roof. Some 30 metres higher, and further up the Gorge, is Great Oone’s Hole, once used as a base by the Auxiliary Unit of the Home Guard during WWII. This is equally as roomy, but terminates in a steep descent to a low choked crawl. Below this is Soldier’s Hole, where some flint tools were found which may be of Neanderthal age – or they may just be crude tools of a later date. Some way up the Gorge, on the right bank, is a disused quarry, known as Landslip Quarry after a massive rock fall in 1906. This blocked the road for several weeks and the fall was partly instrumental in causing the cessation of quarrying in the Gorge itself, although the Black Rock Quarry continued to operate for many years after that.
Pig’s Hole
(Photography by Phil Hendy)
IT is almost impossible to miss the two showcaves, Gough’s and Cox’s, when passing through Cheddar Gorge. Cox’s Cave, discovered by a workman in the employ of George Cox in 1837, is one of the country’s earliest showcaves. Pavey’s Cave, with which it was connected With PHILIP in 1987, has been used to house several HENDY underground attractions. The latest of these was the Crystal Quest, which has now been removed and is being replaced with a computer-driven laser interpretation of Stone Age life in the Gorge. Gough’s Cave was opened to the public in 1899 by George’s nephew, Richard Cox Gough, and is a spectacular abandoned river cave. The underground river has been explored by cave divers for many hundreds of metres. It resurges just below Gough’s and at other points and is Mendip’s largest spring, with a mean daily flow of almost 82,000 cubic metres of water. There is, however, much more to the Gorge than just these two caves. Another 29 caves and shelters are known in the Gorge itself, with another seven in the locality. Archaeological material has been found in 15 of these and because of this several have been scheduled as Special Areas of Conservation, which means that they cannot be excavated without special permission. Bats roost and hibernate in many of the caves, which are off-limits to cavers during the winter months. Two of the most obvious caves are opposite each other, fairly near the lower end of the Gorge. Cooper’s Hole, low on the left side, once had a more extensive entrance chamber, but the roof has been cut back. It has yielded some archaeological material, most recently to Time Team in 1999, but digs have failed to find any extensive passages. High in the cliff opposite is the imposing entrance to Pride Evan’s Hole. This consists of a single large chamber and was reputedly lived in by the eponymous Welshman at about the time of the Napoleonic Wars. Pride was a shepherd, it is said, and he looked after the Cheddar Pound. Pride lived in the cave with his
Phil has been caving for more than 47 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in produ PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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At the back of Landslip Quarry is Canyon Cave, an unstable series of rifts. Unlike the other caves in the Gorge, which were formed by the erosive power of water, this is a cave formed by the slippage of a large mass of rock away from the side of the Gorge. Hidden away behind the waterworks reservoir is Reservoir Hole, a magnificent cave engineered by the late Willie Stanton, who carefully dug down through a boulderfilled shaft, cementing as he went to stabilise the walls, to enter a short stream passage. Beyond that is Topless Aven, at the end of which Willie dug up through more boulders to enter the high Golgotha Rift. In 2012 cavers dug into The Frozen Deep, currently the largest cave chamber in Britain. It is beautifully decorated with all manner of formations. Just below this is the obvious entrance to White Spot Cave, opened by Gough using explosives around 1880. A short but roomy passage leads to railings, beyond which a steep slippery slope descends to a deep exposed shaft, dug a few years ago but abandoned since the discovery of The Frozen Deep. Pig’s Hole and Sow’s Hole lie at the foot of the cliffs on the left bank, further up the Gorge. Sow’s, the higher of the two, takes road drainage. It would be an awkward place to dig and will be full of sediment but could be worth investigating. Pig’s Hole is a low passage at the foot of a large overhang, currently being dug by members of the University of Bristol Speleological Society. High on the right bank, near the start of the northern part of the clifftop walk, is Bone Hole, a partly unroofed rift where Beaker to Iron Age material (including bones, of course) were found in the 19th century. More recently, the Mendip Caving Group found a lower continuation, reached by the steep Skull Slope, where human skulls were found lying on the surface. The new extension is well decorated with stalactites and digging continues in the hope of connecting with the elusive underground River Yeo. All of these caves have an interesting history, described in Mendip Underground, published by the Mendip Cave Registry and Archive in 2013. The open entrances to these caves are inviting, but be warned – experience and the right equipment are essential in order to explore them safely.
CAVING
Bone Hole
Cooper’s Hole
Great Oone’s Hole
roducing several caving publications and is a caving instructor in Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves. MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 67
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Scandal is a top dog again at Crufts
NEWS
CHARLOTTE Harding and her seven-year-old border Collie, Scandal, have won the Crufts agility championship for the second year running. Charlotte is no stranger to winning – she and Scandal were in the British team that won silver in the world championships in 2014 and gold last year. Charlotte from Blagdon said she first got hooked watching competitions on television and now competes two or three times a month. She said: “I thought it looked like fun. When Scandal was younger we had a lot of short sessions of training. The weaving poles were the most difficult but are probably now Scandal’s favourite. The emphasis now is on conditioning. These dogs have to be built like an athlete.” So do the owners – Charlotte covered more than 14 miles with Scandal on the last day of Crufts. She does agility training at her home one day a week and spends four days a week as assistant to the joint managing directors of Yeo Valley in Blagdon.
Grant boost for youth clubs
A NUMBER of youth clubs on Mendip will benefit from the latest rounds of grants from Somerset County Council. Evercreech was given £2,710 towards running costs. Coleford Youth Club was given £3,500 towards the staffing costs whilst £1,140 was awarded to Stoke St Michael Youth Club towards the costs of running its Wednesday night club. Glastonbury Windmill Hill Youth Club received £3,500 toward the staffing costs as did Shepton Mallet Youth Club. They were amongst 16 clubs across the county. The grants will be matched by locally-raised fund and the hundreds of hours given by volunteers. Councillor Frances Nicholson, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “We understand the importance of helping communities sustain their own youth provision and I’m delighted that we are able to provide grant aid, which adds to money raised by and in the communities themselves.” Nominations are open until Friday, April 29th for the annual Somerset Star Awards which recognise the work of individuals and volunteer groups. To make a nomination, visit www.scvolunteering.com
PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Showground to host birthday beacon
SHEPTON Mallet is joining the list of towns up and down the country that plan to set the sky alight to mark the Queen’s 90th birthday. A beacon will be lit on the Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society Showground on the evening of Thursday, April 21st as part of the nationwide ceremony. Hosted by the organisers of the annual Mid-Somerset Agricultural Show, people are being invited to attend the free celebration. Food and drink will be on offer throughout the evening. Gates open at 7pm with the beacon being lit at 7.30pm. Somerton will also be hosting a beacon. The ceremony will be held on land at Behind Berry with refreshments and entertainment including a fireworks display. The town is also planning a display of Union flags. No parking will be allowed on the Shepton Mallet showfield. Pedestrians should enter from the Cannards Grave Road entrance or the Compton Road entrance.
Commonwealth Day
NORTH Somerset Council was amongst several local authorities which commemorated Commonwealth Day. A similar event was held in Midsomer Norton. Councillor Charles Cave, Chairman of North Somerset Council, ispictured with representatives from Commonwealth nations who live in North Somerset
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Major road works ahead
A MAJOR engineering scheme to repair and rebuild the A39 between Street and Glastonbury is being planned for later this year. The Causeway near Street is showing signs of significant structural failure and has seen 67 separate visits to fix potholes in the past two years. Somerset County Council needs to reconstruct the carriageway but, due to the width of the carriageway, it says the only way to do this safely is by fully closing the road. The council has started talks with the local community opportunity to try to understand their concerns and minimise the impact. The scheme is currently being planned for the October half term (22-30). Teams will work 24 hours a day for the duration of the closure, which is expected to last up to seven days. To find out more about the work, including an information sheet, Q&A and provisional maps, visit: http://wp.me/p3F24A-1vG or to raise a concern, call 0300 123 2224 or email countyroads-mendip@somerset.gov.uk
UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES MG ROVER & LAND ROVER SPECIALIST
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Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 69
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What are your five portions of fun?
I’VE just done a revamp of my radio show. I’m sure you’re all well acquainted with Dr Phil’s Saturday Surgery (9am – midday, BBC Radio Bristol), and shame on you if you’re not. I’ve been doing it for nine years and – like a comfortable marriage – the “once a week for three hours” format works well but could do with a bit of shaking up. By Dr PHIL So the first hour will now be Healthy Hour. We HAMMOND choose health topics in the news and interview health experts but throw in a self-help element. How can you prevent yourself getting ill, prevent an existing illness getting worse and live a healthy life. So far, so useful. The last hour (11am-12noon) is Happening Hour. Guests bring in favourite news stories of the week, we throw ahead to exciting events and we do “I’ll be the judge of that” where experts tell us how to judge a prize dog or grow a prize marrow without upsetting the neighbours. If you have a local event coming Cerys Nelmes up that needs a bit of gentle probing or plugging, please let me know via my website (www.drphilhammond.com). We’ll also have some music in this slot – if you can sing or play live on the radio without using the word “buttocks”, I want to hear from you. Which just leaves the middle hour, 10am-11am. Clearly it has to begin with “H” to fit the new format. So I’ve come up with Happy Hour. My guests talk about their lives and what makes and keeps them happy. Forget the fruit and veg, everyone needs five portions of fun a day. They each have to be different, only one can involve a screen and one has to be outdoors. A portion of fun could be spiritual, it could be friendship, it could be family, it could be hobbies, it could be work, it could be a favourite view, it could be a dog, it could be the smell of your wife’s hair. I tried out this new format recently and was particularly pleased with Happy Hour. We had two comedians doing it and they were moving, insightful and funny. Cerys Nelmes, a Bristolian comedian who used to work in Ikea chose, for her five portions of fun: “The Teenager” (her son), her five Chihuahuas, cheese (not the smelly stuff), anti-depressants and cookbooks. She buys cookbooks just to look at the pictures and puts cheese on every meal so long as it’s no more than four on the strength scale. And she was very open and honest about her struggle with depression and how anti-depressants have worked really well for her. Stuart Goldsmith’s five portions of fun were his spare change for parking pouch, his Voice Memo App, a proper flat white coffee, his baby’s feet and the fab new Gloucester Services. It’s often the little things that bring joy, meaning and purpose to the day. Think back to your baby’s feet and you can’t help but smile. And have a think about your own five portions of fun and let me know if you’d like to share them with thousands of listeners. See you on Saturdays. Dr Phil is on BBC Radio Bristol every Saturday morning, 9am12noon. You can contact him via www.drphilhammond.com or just chat to him when he’s out walking the dogs (portion one).
PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Insect days . . .
MY son has an inset day. These days fall within the term-time calendar and are used for essential training and forward planning by school staff. However, all three of my children admit to being absolutely baffled, when they were small, by what their teachers were up to on inset days. And all three admit they thought it had something to do with insects. “I thought the teachers went into school and got rid of all the insects,” explained youngest son. Now young children can harbour insect life so this might be a good idea if the children were present. Or maybe he was referring to the plague of flies that descended on our village a few years back. Whatever the explanation and whatever the teachers get up to, we find ourselves contemplating a rainy Monday as our latest inset day begins. I had made plans; after all, this is precious time with youngest son. We had arranged a trip to Glastonbury with his best friend, his best friend’s mum and their dog. The dark clouds had gathered early that morning and by the time my friend was at the door, ready to pick us up, the rain was torrential. “Shall we go anyway?” she asks doubtfully. As we head towards the Isle of Avalon there is a chink in the clouds and the sun breaks through. After days of rain this feels like a minor miracle. When we eventually arrive at The Tor the rain has stopped. The dog and boys bound ahead and we make the steep climb. For those of you unacquainted with Glastonbury Tor the view at the top is breath taking. You can turn 360 degrees and see the Levels, the Mendips, the distant shores and ancient woodlands of Somerset and beyond; it never disappoints. The sun was shining by the time we made our climb down. At the bottom was a small field with a large standing stone. Worked into the stone was an iron bell and Celtic pattern. The idea was that you picked up a nearby stone and hit the bell. Soon we discovered that our success was entirely dependent on how close to the stone we were standing. As we made our way back to the main road and the town itself we happened upon a grotto. Lit by candles, the water of the Chalice Spring flowed under foot. In each nook and cranny there were little shrines, complete with crystal balls, deer-heart paintings and other mysterious regalia. All this was accompanied by the deep chanting of an invisible person meditating from somewhere within. It was magical for the adults and children alike. We finally found ourselves on Glastonbury High Street and enjoying a well-earned lunch in a local café, while getting acquainted with a few of the stranger sights upon the way. So this was not a day lost educationally and what other high street offers you the opportunity to see a goblin taking money out of a cash machine? MENDIP MUM
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Hair and beauty in Banwell
PERRETT Neads Hair and Beauty Lodge has been officially opened in Banwell by the Mayor of Westonsuper-Mare, Cllr Raymond
Armstrong. After 17 years as a hairdresser, Emma Perrett has opened her first business at her home in Knightcott Park in the village, incorporating her maiden name Neads for the benefit of older clients. She has also been a lecturer at Weston College. The lodge has been built by her husband Paul, who has his own company, PKP Building Contractors. The couple have two children Ruby, aged six, and Harvey 15 months. Emma said: “Here at Perrett Neads Hair and Beauty our focus is to make sure every client's visit is enjoyable and you will feel that you have been truly listened to, given exceptional service and advice on hair and skin.” She has three staff, Tanita Veal, hair and beauty, Chantelle Logan-Sowden, beauty, and Sarah Howe, hair. They offer a wide selection of hair and beauty products, including Schwarzkopf and Balmain for hair and Dermalogica and Gelish for health and beauty.
Here comes summer
THE Single Professional Association has had an energetic time, with a walk to the top of Glastonbury Tor, followed by lunch for 20 at West Pennard, and lunch at Sharpham tea rooms before 18 members walked into the RSPB reserve for the starlings’ famous murmuration. With summer time around the corner and more events planned, new members are welcome to attend the group’s weekly bar night in Wells. Membership also allows access to the group’s five other branches.
HEALTH & FAMILY
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MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 71
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Sandford Station’s oldest resident VERA Brummell celebrated her 106th birthday to become Sandford Station retirement community’s oldest resident. Vera, who has been a resident at St Monica Trust’s Sherwood nursing care home there since January 2015, was joined by three generations of her family, friends, residents and carers. Daughter, Pamela, aged 80, great granddaughter, Hannah, aged 29 and great great granddaughter, Sophia, aged one, celebrated Vera’s special day with cards, presents and a cake baked by the care home’s catering team. Daughter, Pamela said: “My grandfather and great grandfather both lived into their 90s, so longevity is in the family genes. Although she enjoys the odd drink, mum has never done anything to excess. She doesn’t worry too much and has always taken things in her stride.” Born in Horfield, Bristol on February 17th, 1910, Vera is the same age as Manchester United’s Old Trafford football stadium and Cornwall’s Truro Cathedral. She worked as a clerk for the AA and then as a cashier with the Westminster Bank until leaving to
HEALTH & FAMILY
marry husband, George in 1934. She spent her later years in Wrington. She was still living independently in her Wrington home well into her hundreds. It was only when she developed a chest infection that she moved into Sherwood for a week of respite care and has been living there ever since. As well as Sandford Station, the St Monica Trust runs retirement communities in Bristol at Cote Lane and Westbury Fields in Westbury-on-Trym and Monica Wills House in Bedminster. It is developing the former Cadbury’s factory in Keynsham into what will be its fifth retirement community.
Details: 0117 949 4004 or email info@stmonicatrust.org.uk
Living well with dementia
MILDRED, 84, from Timsbury, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in May 2014. She sometimes struggles with her memory, although her long-term memory is still quite good. In fact she has very clear memories of when war broke out. She was a shorthand typist and worked on the switchboard before working at a steel works and then becoming a nurse. After she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease her family suggested she get in touch with the staff at Alzheimer’s Society’s Pinelea day centre in Midsomer Norton. She now goes to the day centre every Monday and Thursday. Speaking about the day centre Mildred said: “I enjoy coming here. It gets me out of the house and it’s very sociable. There are an interesting variety of people to talk to. I enjoy playing cards and taking part in activities like flower arranging. I can remember choosing the goldfish for the fish tank in the day centre too. The staff here couldn’t do any better. I enjoy the food. I can’t fault it. I’d definitely recommend Pinelea. It’s no good for anyone to be on their own or stuck at home.” Alzheimer’s Society provides information and support to people with any form of dementia and their carers through its publications, National Dementia Helpline, website, and more than 2,000 local services. Details: alzheimers.org.uk or call the Alzheimer’s Society National Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122.
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Village planning royal celebration
Celebrating the Queen’s diamond jubilee in the village hall
BUCKLAND Dinham Village Hall will be the focus of celebrations for residents and visitors wanting to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. Plans for Saturday, June 11th include a shared lunch in the hall with a bouncy castle, a children’s fancy dress competition with a royal theme, tombola, raffle, a bar, a birds of prey demonstration and many other attractions followed by an evening of live music.
Rotary club reaches 90
Bob Acland (left) presents a commemorative certificate to club president Patrick Cusworth at the 90th birthday celebrations
THE Rotary Club of Frome has celebrated the 90th anniversary of the granting of its charter in style. A party was attended by District Governor Bob Acland along with members of the Bayeux rotary club from France, which has long been associated with the Frome branch. G A presentation to prize winners in the club’s Young Writer competition was held at sponsors Chicken House Publishing.
For more information or to put names down for the lunch contact Sara Corbett on 01373 466536 or e-mail: willigogs@outlook.com
Royal rubbish collection
Writing winners in the seven to ten year old class Anna Bagan, Primrose Boyden and Martha Johnston are pictured with club president-elect Gerry Atkinson, Karin Campagna from Hunting Raven Bookshop and Rachel Leyshon from Chicken House. Hunting Raven awarded book tokens to the winners
Royal tidy LONG Ashton turned out in force to Clean for the Queen with younger members prominent from scouts, beavers and brownies. The initiative came from Westleaze W.I. and included parish and district councillors, the rector, W.I. members, the local MP and many residents who, equipped with gloves, jackets, litterpicks and sacks, sallied forth to do battle with litter. Classes from Birdwell and Northleaze Primary Schools had cleared areas near their premises the previous day. About 60 sacks of rubbish were returned to the community centre where collectors were rewarded with coffee, squash and home-made cakes provided by W.I. members.
PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Volunteers enjoyed a sunny Saturday morning as they tidied up the churchyard of St James's Church in Winscombe. The event coincided with the Clean for the Queen weekend and the end result of all the hard work was a much tidier and cleaner churchyard.
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Thank you to village supporters RESIDENTS of Lydford-on-Fosse have held parties to honour some of their neighbours who have made a huge contribution to village life. More than 100 people packed Wheathill Golf Club to thank Lali and Caroline Seehra, who ran the village post office and stores at Lydford Crossroads for more than 20 years. The couple took the decision late last year to close the business to spend more time on their other interests. They
COMMUNITY
plan to continue to live there. Meanwhile, guests raised a glass at Lydford Village Hall to celebrate the 100th birthday of resident Sir Conrad Heron, a former senior civil servant at the Department of Employment who moved to the village in the 1980s. He was heavily involved in negotiations with union leaders in the 1960s and during the Three Day Week in the 1970s. He retired as Permanent Secretary to the department in 1976. A flowering cherry tree was planted next to the church to celebrate Sir Conrad’s centenary
Lali and Caroline Seehra at their party
Sir Conrad Heron
Westbury secures the future of its shop AFTER years of uncertainty it looks as if villagers in Westbury-sub-Mendip have secured the future of their village shop and post office. Westbury-sub-Mendip Community Shop Ltd, which raised £230,000 to buy the premises in 2014, took over the management of the businesses on January 25th. Its 270 members paid for shares and the balance was made up with a substantial 25-year interest-free loan from a village benefactor as well as short-term loans from super bonds holders. It’s thought to be the first community group in the country to be granted a post office salaried contract – they normally go to named individuals. The shop has four paid employees, including Penny Colwill, who is the shop manager, but relies on volunteers to provide a range of services. Jackie Laws, who is in charge of the volunteers’ rota, said: “We would certainly welcome more.” Six years ago, shop assistant Rachel Knell stepped in to save the shop, alongside volunteers, when it faced closure. When she decided to leave to
travel the world, Paul Blackburn, who was running Draycott Stores, stepped in. He’s now moved to Cornwall. The shop is open weekdays 7.30am5.30pm, Saturdays 8am-1pm, Sundays 9am-11am. Hot of the press: the committee has recently found out that their application for Power 2 Change funding has been
Sir Conrad was one of the driving forces behind a £100,000 renovation project at the village church, researched the history of Lydford Weir ahead of its restoration and is president of the village gardening club. He continues to be a member of the village book club.
successful and the shop will be undergoing a complete make-over in the coming months. The community group running it is Myriam Kniveton, chairman, who is pictured (l to r) with Graham Glasson, secretary, John Cozens, vice chairman, Mark Smith, and Simon Bruce, treasurer.
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Shop reaches half million mark
We did this! Caroline (far left) and Terry (far right) with some of the volunteers and friends at the party
TEA and cakes were the order of the day when a charity shop which supports Paulton Memorial Hospital celebrated raising £500,000. Terry and Caroline Wynne – who enjoy the rare distinction of both being awarded the MBE for their charity work – hosted a party at the shop to thank volunteers, friends and supporters for their role in achieving the feat. The couple had been running a tombola in aid of the hospital before opening their first shop in 1998 after retiring from Cadbury’s in Keynsham. They moved to larger premises in 2013.
Banks very much!
The NatWest team with Heads Up service manager Bridget Harvey in the new arts and crafts room
EFFORTS to make Wells dementia-friendly have received a boost from bank staff in the city. The Heads Up charity at West Horrington, which runs day care and respite services for sufferers of dementia and their families, were visited by a team from NatWest who rolled up their sleeves to decorate a new arts and crafts room. The bank became involved with the Wells Dementia Action Alliance last year. Led by branch manager Sally Jones, it has been selling knitted goods in yellow and blue throughout March. NatWest also donated £400 to the charity from its local community support fund. Andy Flint, Director Business Banking Somerset, said: “In view of our involvement we asked if there was anything else that we could do to help. We were then offered the decorating job. “It was a very enjoyable day out helping other people and from a work perspective great teamwork, which will help us better serve our customers when we are back in the office.”
Beach run
More to come: Terry and Caroline plan to carry on fundraising
PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
WESTON Hospicecare’s Colour Run is back! Join them on Sunday, April 24th at 2pm for a colourful afternoon on Weston beach, where you can walk, jog, run or dance your way along the 5k course, and help raise funds to support Weston Hospicecare.
Details: www.westoncolourrun.org.uk or phone 01934 423900.
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Charity’s big launch
SOMERSET and Wessex Eating Disorder Association (SWEDA) have opened their new centre in Shepton Mallet. The charity supports people with eating disorders from across the region and they chose to unveil their new-look brand, website and premises during National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. A service user who attended the event said: "SWEDA really helped me to take responsibility for my recovery and take the necessary action to turn my life around." Paula Blight, CEO of SWEDA said: “We were really delighted to see so many people at the event. It was great to have this opportunity to explain to people what our organisation does and outline our exciting plans for the future. A big thank you to the Big Lottery too for supporting our work and believing in this really important cause.” Details: 01749 343344 or support@swedauk.org
Abba tribute concert
DOROTHY House Hospice and Bath RUH’s Forever Friends cancer care appeal will benefit from an Abba tribute concert organised by the Lions Club of Radstock and Midsomer Norton at Paulton Rovers Football Club on May 21st. Tickets are priced at £12, with a discount for groups of ten (ten for the price of nine). Details: Colin Marsh 01761 451221 or email: colinm@rmnlions.org.uk
Supporting the air ambulance OVER 100 people braved snow and freezing weather to get to Doulting village hall to help Shepton Mallet Tangent raise money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance with their bi-annual quiz. Some 25 teams, many regular supporters, puzzled over questions posed by question master Neil Blake and a closelyrun contest was eventually won by the Chocolate Teapots (Judith Matthews) beating The Acorns (Oakhill Singers) by just one point. The wooden spoon went to Laura’s Larks (Sally Breaden). The evening raised £830.
Red Cross appeal
CHARITIES
LANGPORT and District Red Cross Group say they are very short of volunteers to collect house-to-house during Red Cross Week, Sunday May 8th to Saturday May 14th. They cover all the towns and villages from Fivehead to Babcary (west to east) and Compton Dundon to Kinsgsbury Episcopi (north to south). Official permits and all kit will be supplied and collections may be at any time and for as long as volunteers can manage during that week. Money raised will support Red Cross services in Somerset, including care in the home after leaving hospital, transport and escort for hospital appointments, medical equipment loans, emergency support and first aid. Details: Chris Cox on 01458 273085 or e-mail cox.cj@beinternet.com
Think pink for Dorothy House
THIS April Farrington’s Farm Shop will be encouraging customers to “Pick- Pink” for Dorothy House Hospice when the gates open to their pick-your-own tulip field. Farrington’s, based in Farrington Gurney, have planted 5,000 pink tulips alongside their annual pick-your-own tulips, to celebrate the charity’s 40th anniversary. Proceeds from the sale of the 5,000 pink tulips will be donated to Dorothy House, who provide care for terminally ill patients over the age of 18 at their Winsley hospice. The pink tulip features prominently on the charity’s logo so partnering with Farrington’s was a logical step for Dorothy House community fundraiser, Yvonne Brunton. Owner of Farrington’s, Tish Jeffery said: “The stories that Yvonne told brought a tear to my eye. All of us know someone who is receiving treatment or has been treated for cancer and we’re thrilled to be able to support such an inspiring cause.” The tulip event, now in its fifth year, invites customers to get outside and enjoy their pick of the bunch in what is believed to be the UK’s largest pick-your-own tulip field. Families can wander through the Somerset countryside taking their pick of over 50,000 beautiful flowers in a kaleidoscope of colour. At just £3 for a bunch of 10 or, £12 for 50, it’s easy to get carried away! Farrington’s said they would like to say a special thank you to Peter Nyssen for kindly donating the pink tulip bulbs. In addition to pink tulips, pickers can also purchase a special anniversary pin badge, sporting the Dorothy House pink tulip logo. The badges cost £1.50 and will be available from Farrington’s Farm Shop, café and the independent shops on site who will also be supporting the charity. The tulip field will be open between 10am and 5pm every day from the middle of April to the middle of May. Details: www.farringtons.co.uk
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Shepton charity event
SHEPTON Mallet 41 Club’s ladies’ night raised £350 for the Stroke Association. Pictured (l to r) are Shepton Mallet 41 Club president Neville Dyke and sister Gillian, Shepton Mallet 41 Club vice president, Ed Morland, and Frances Morland, Shepton Mallet Ladies’ Tangent chairman, Shepton Mallet Round Table chairman Lloyd and Hayley Durbin, Shepton Mallet Rotary chairman Phil and Judi Rice.
Woodland memorial
Culvery Wood – Pensford Primary School
CHARITIES
Freemasons push the boat out for Lifecraft Appeal
Front: (l:r) Freemasons Nick Reed, Mike Jarvis and Andy Hodge, with Burnham-on-Sea RNLI chairman Ashley Edwards and Freemasons Mike David and John Chinn. Rear: (l:r) Burnham-onSea RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Matt Davies, volunteers Vince Bardell, Scott Rundle, Martin Cooper, Nick Edrich and DLA Dave Parsons
FREEMASONS from Burnham-on-Sea have presented £1,000 towards an appeal for a new lifeboat for the town with their donation being matched by Somerset Freemasons. Burnham-on-Sea’s current D class lifeboat Puffin will come to the end of its operational life after ten years of service. A community appeal to raise funds for Puffin’s replacement was launched in June last year. RNLI chairman Ashley Edwards said: “The community has been very supportive of our appeal and this will truly be a Burnham-on-Sea lifeboat.”
A great achievement
THE Woodland Trust and volunteers in Pensford say they are over the moon after a donation of an acre of land to enlarge Culvery Woods in the village. These children from Pensford Primary School were among the volunteers who planted 500 trees on the site. The woods were bought by the Woodland Trust in 1995. The acre has been donated by Meg Thomas, of Belluton, whose late husband, Stephen, donated two acres in 2000. He died in 2014. She said: “We had 26 happy years together and I thought it would give him a lovely memorial. As he gave the first two acres I thought it right to give another acre and I know he would be happy with this.” A plaque will be erected in memory of Stephen. The photo shows the children from Pensford Primary School with (left to right at the back) Sharon Croucher, Nigel Chambers and Joe Middleton. PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
THE Rotary Club of Glastonbury and Street has contributed the highest amount of any club in the UK in the current rotary year to the organisation’s campaign to combat polio. It was largely achieved due to the success of its fundraising event with TV chef Mary Berry last October. The club donated $11,846 (Rotary International calculates all amounts in US dollars), more than $2,000 ahead of The City and Shoreditch club. G The club has presented a cheque for £235 to Cystic Fibrosis, from its wishing well at Clark’s Village.
Charities win the lottery
SEVERAL local charities are to receive grants from the Big Lottery Fund to help expand their work, with the Carers’ Centre in Radstock getting £9,960 to set up a telephone befriending service for isolated carers. Community Play for All in Frome receives £6,621 to provide supported play sessions in areas that lack facilities and Mendip Disability Forum gets £5,270 to expand its work. Batcombe Parish Council has been awarded £2,418 to carry out a consultation on affordable housing in the village.
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Community Partnership
OVER the past couple of years the Cheddar Patient Group and the My Cheddar community group have independently identified the need for sustainable external funding to enable step-change community projects to be fulfilled. Working together, the groups have engaged with relevant local and regional authorities and have investigated the experiences of other Somerset communities in respect of how funding can be obtained and managed. The key learning points have been that by making fund-raising an ongoing process sustainable investment can be achieved, that an overarching community organisation formed as a legal entity is necessary to bid for funding and that recent structured evidence of “need” is required to support funding applications. The Cheddar Community Partnership will be a non-profit making company, administered by a steering group comprising local stakeholders and governed by a board of trustees. Working closely with Cheddar Parish Council, the Community Partnership will raise funds to support local projects in the realms of health and well-being, community and environment and economic development. It is the Cheddar community that should determine what is to be achieved with additional investment; therefore a Big Lottery Fund grant application has been submitted to fund a Cheddar needs and data analysis. This will encourage responses to be on the basis of a step-change in community resource terms and at the same time provide the required evidence of need. Once the results of the needs and data analysis have been consolidated the community partnership will consult with applicable agencies and develop a strategy leading to the initiation of individual projects and the delivery of real, measurable benefits to the Cheddar community. Simon Childs – Chair, My Cheddar John Pimblott – Chair, Cheddar Patient Group
FOCUS ON CHEDDAR
A happy first birthday
ONE whole year in business and CAFÉ Sketch is still expanding. Inside they've recently added a funky new bar with organic wines, local beers and ciders. They are over 90% organic, with gluten-free and dairy-free options. Their evening tapas is very popular, as is their Indian thali. They are now also offering mezze and pizza, especially as an early-bird deal. If you haven't had handmade organic freshly prepared pizza it's a real treat! Remember they make everything from scratch, even their ketchup and
marmalade are home-made. They refuse to have a microwave and refuse to use prepacked powders and artificial ingredients and never use bought sauces or other manufactured goods. Even their bread is handmade organic. Coming soon – vegan Sunday roasts and vegan cream teas – Katrina and Sacha look forward to seeing you soon.
Choir in action
CHEDDAR Male Choir is holding a joint concert with Launceston Male Voice Choir to raise funds for Children’s Hospice South West, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. It will held at St. Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, on Saturday April 9th at 7.30pm, doors open 7pm. Tickets are £8 from choir members or at the door on the night. The choir, a registered charity, was founded in 1995 and has raised £135,000 for good causes since then. It practices on Tuesdays from 7.30pm – 9.30pm at Draycott village hall. New members are welcome. Details: www.cheddarmvchoir.co.uk
Consult the local experts for all of your insurance requirements Contact: Chris Tony or Paul on 01934 742550 For all your insurance needs Bath Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3AA Tel: (01934) 742550 Fax: (01934) 744559 Email: quotes@woodburyinsurance.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 79
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Cheddar’s charity sailor prepares to set off By Steve Egginton
STEVE Pointon’s quest to sail around the British coast for charity has grown to include more than 50 friends and family pledging their support. After retiring from the Royal Navy two years ago, Steve, from Cheddar, sets sail on his boat Tikka from the Royal Navy Sailing Association’s base at Gosport on June 4th, with his wife Kaz and their son Harry, aged 13, joining him for the first week and again at various stages around the country. On August 20th and 2,500 miles later he should return, having had numerous volunteers helping to crew the boat, including fellow Cheddar residents and friends Rowan Norman and Liz Brigstocke. He’s hoping to raise £10,000 for Action for Children and his challenge has inspired others. His friend, teacher Martin Torbett, aged 65, plans to cycle 4,600 miles around the coast on his 25-year-old Dawes bicycle, meeting up with the boat from time to time. Both men are members of Cheddar Caving Club and are regulars at the cavers’ pub, The Hunter’s Lodge at Priddy, so Martin has named the bike Diana, after landlord Roger Dors’s more famous relative. Steve’s brother, Anthony, will cycle from Edinburgh to actor Neil Morrissey’s pub in Stoke-on-Trent – Steve and Neil went to the same school. Friend, Danny Burnett, from Pilton, who will sail four legs of the voyage, has got permission from Michael Eavis to show video of the challenge between acts at this year’s Glastonbury Festival. Explorer David Hempleman-Adams has offered his support and some of Steve’s former colleagues at RNAS Yeovilton, where he was based for 24 years, will walk and climb the equivalent of Everest to raise money. Steve said: “The support is just amazing. We adopted Harry when he was six and know the issues surrounding adoption and the great work that Action for Children does. “I’m 50 this year and we’ve been married for 20 years too and always had this idea of buying a boat for holidays in retirement. “Then we went to see a lecture by this amazing man, Jamie Andrews, who had rebuilt his life after losing his hands and
This party in Priddy raised £400
Steve, Kaz and Harry on the boat
feet after being trapped on a mountain. He’s since run the London Marathon and achieved much more, he was inspirational. “That did it. Following a couple of pints of cider Kaz and I decided to buy a boat and do this. It is great to see so many people coming together to set their own personal challenge and help us raise money and awareness for this charity that does so much to help the most vulnerable children and their families in our country. “I hope more will join us and together we can break through our target of £10,000 and make a difference.” Martin Torbett plans to cycle around the whole British coast
Details: search ‘Tikka’s Travels’ on Facebook; to donate, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com and search ‘Tikka’s Travels’
PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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New shop boosts village centre
FOCUS ON CHEDDAR
Fine dining at home
DOORSTEP Dinners’ owner, Beccy Thomas, moved to Cheddar in November with the aim of bringing tasty, wholesome, home-made food to residents of the Cheddar Valley. Doorstep Dinners is for anyone who finds cooking a chore, those times in our lives when we are simply too busy, or recovering from illness, bringing home a new baby, or going away and leaving the family to fend for themselves. Beccy is passionate about sourcing all her ingredients locally and was thrilled to find Cobbs opening right on her doorstep just in time for her launch. With very affordable prices, free delivery in the Cheddar Valley, and a local, home-made guarantee why not give Doorstep Dinners a try?
COBBS of Cheddar is proving to be a very popular addition to Cheddar village. Adrian and Estelle Cobb opened their shop just before Christmas – and have been expanding ever since. The shop next to the Cross had stood empty and semiderelict for years before they took it on and set about restoring it. Adrian had worked at Budgens in Cheddar for 15 years in charge of their meat counter and when Budgens announced their closure loyal customers urged him to open his own butchers’ shop. Some 600 signed a petition of support and by the time they opened the new shop had 80 orders for Christmas. Estelle said: “The local people, true to their word, have been so supportive. We’ve a lot of new customers too.” She was working as a support worker for young people at Weston College when they decided to set up their own business and had worked at a delicatessen in Maidenhead years ago. She said: “The shop is much too big to be just a butchers, so I decided to give up my job and join Adrian in the business.” As well as being a butchers and delicatessen, they also have fresh fish every day, fruit and vegetables and local bread and milk. All of their meat, cheese and other produce is locally sourced where possible. They also supply local company Doorstep Dinners. Cobbs of Cheddar has really helped revitalise the old village centre.
I offer professional support for owner-managed businesses and small companies, including • Business planning and advice • Management and year-end accounts • Budgets and forecasts • Tax returns and tax planning • Payroll and VAT • Company secretarial services For a free initial consultation contact Helen Bardle at
7 Cliff Street, Cheddar, BS27 3PT Tel 01934 744333 or 07974 343335 Email helen@helenbardle.co.uk
Open: Tuesday – Saturday 7am-6pm Sunday 10am-4pm • Closed Monday e Cross, Union Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3NA 01934 742521 • email cobbsofcheddar@outlook.com MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 81
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Young business winners
ENTREPRENEURS Aiden Malik and James Boston, directors of Pampawed, won Mendip Rotary’s Big Pitch competition with their range of pet-related toys. Their prize was presented by Rotarian Mike Webb. In all 22 year 9 business studies students from Kings of Wessex Academy took part in the competition.
Ladies Fashion and Accessories
Everything you need for the great outdoors
Five star Sunday lunch
Shop 2, Dorchester House Union Street, Cheddar Somerset BS27 3NB
01934 741899 Email: karen@katie-boo.com
katie-boo.com
The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QA Tel: 01934 742688 Online Store: www.thegorgeoutdoors.co.uk
The Wishing Well Tea Rooms Morning Coffee Light Lunches Cream Teas Sandwiches Home-made Cakes
01934 742142
PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
THE Riverside's new chef Bryn Davies has certainly raised the bar with his freshly-cooked Sunday lunches. With locally sourced beef, lamb and pork from F. Griffiths & Son, a selection of seasonal vegetables, including cauliflower cheese and gravy just like mum makes, you won't be disappointed. But don't just take their word for it – check out their trip advisors giving it the 5-star treatment. So next Sunday, head down to Cheddar and make the Riverside your destination.
Latest styles – Cheddar fashion KATIE-BOO’S spring and summer fashion show will be held at Cheddar Football Club on Friday May 13th, raising money for local charities. It starts at 7pm for 7.30pm and tickets at £5 include a complementary drink. It promises to be a fantastic fun evening with local models showing Katie-Boo’s gorgeous new clothes and accessories, with local craft stalls and pampering sessions to enjoy afterwards. Tickets are available now from Katie-Boo – all are welcome.
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Cheddar arts festival involves the whole village
THE spring Cheddar Arts Fringe Festival promises to be bigger and better than the popular event held for the first time last
year. There will be a well-mapped walking tour around Cheddar as local artists and crafts-people throw open their studios and venues. It will be possible to chat to the artists and watch some of them at work. The exhibition will include painting, sculpture, textiles, fused glass, ceramics, calligraphic art, jewellery, music and poetry. In addition there is a Children’s Challenge, with activities and prizes, and other activities in the library, pubs and cafes throughout the village. The festival runs from April 30th – May 2nd, from 10am-4pm daily. It will open with a showcase event at Chestnut Barn Studio, Kent Street on Friday April 29th, 6pm- 9 pm where samples of all the artists’ work will be on display throughout the evening. Details: www.cheddarartists.com
FOCUS ON CHEDDAR
Caring for your animals 24 hours a day seven days a week
G Is your dog microchipped? This is a legal requirement from April 6th. G We can provide compe vely priced parasite control tailored to your animals’ needs G We have a loyalty scheme on our own-brand food for cats and dogs. Call for details. G We have extended our consult hours in Cheddar. G We also offer nurse clinics and puppy classes.
Please call us for details
CHEDDAR 01934 741292 Unit 1, Saxon Court, Cheddar
Branches also located in Blackford, Wells and Woolavington
www.axevalleyvets.co.uk
24hour emergency service
The Cheddar Challenge
WOMEN’S World Darts champion, Trina Gulliver, from Cheddar, is helping to organise a big community event with her friend, Paul Croker, to raise money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. As well as featuring darts - Men’s World Champion, Scott Mitchell, will also be there – there will be a clay shoot, target golf and a host of other events and attractions. The family day out will be held in Cross on May 21st. Details: Trina Gulliver 07721 026027. Tickets from the Riverside Inn.
Mendip Times reduces travel costs
100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business
Opening times: Mon – Fri 9am-8pm • Saturday 8am-3pm Sunday 10am-3pm
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 83
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HIRE
Page 84
Plant & Tools Hire & Sales • HIRE • SALES • REPAIR
Huge stocks of Tools & Equipment • • • • • • •
Compactors • Drills • Cultivators Angle Grinders • Breakers Hedge Trimmers • Saws Ladders • Rotavators • Hoists Tile Cutters • Scarifiers Scaffold Towers • Chain Saws Carpet Cleaners
Open Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:00 • Sat 8:00-12:00
Long or Day Hire Delivery & Collection Service Trade & DIY
01934 743543 www.cheddarhire.co.uk Wideatts Road, Cheddar BS27 3AP
PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Beauty treatments in Cheddar
FULLY qualified with over 25 years’ experience including Harrods and salons in Windsor and Paris, Cheryl opened Cheryl Childs Beauty in the summer of 2015 having most recently worked as a senior therapist in a Wells salon. Situated on the edge of Cheddar and only 15 minutes from Wells, Cheryl Childs Beauty is home-based though totally independent from the house with the added convenience of ease of parking. Cheryl specialises in the multi award-winning CACI antiageing system including the new CACI Eye-Revive treatments. CACI features a range of therapies for younger people, from lip pouting to acne treatments as well as helping to slow the advancing years. Cheryl also offers organic waxing and hand, feet and eye treatments, as well as a range of face and body therapies utilising Katherine Daniels, the fastest growing skin-care system in the UK today. Offering no obligation consultations, Cheryl treats a select few clients a day allowing time between appointments to ensure that clients are able to discuss their requirements and never feel hurried. Cheryl always features a range of special offers including introductory discounts and also offers gift vouchers that can be for particular treatments or a specified value and make ideal gifts. Details: www.cherylchilds.co.uk
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FOCUS ON CHEDDAR
NEW MENU LAUNCH Wednesday 30th March
Come along from 5pm to try canape examples of the new dishes and meet the team. Just drop us an email on info@batharms.com for your invitation. We look forward to welcoming you. Sean, Jacqui and the team
Cheddar BS27 3AA info@batharms.com www.batharms.com 01934 742425
Nearly two years have passed since we opened and we just get busier and busier, we are always looking for talented, caring people to join us. Forward your details to our email if you are interested. Thanks!
BATH ARMS BITES 2 for £6.95 - 3 for £10.95
Chorizo croquette, romesco sauce, aioli . . . . . . . . . . .£3.95 Hummus, black olive tapenade, pitta bread (v) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3.95 Crispy sweet & sticky pork belly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3.95 Chilli, garlic & ginger prawns . . . .£4.50 Sun dried tomato & basil arancini balls (v) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3.95 Bread & oils (v) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£2.95
STARTERS Homemade soup of the day, rustic breads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4.95 Thai crab cakes, sweet chilli dipping sauce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5.50 Spicy calamari, rocket salad, lemon aioli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4.95 Garlic mushrooms, herb toasted ciabatta (v) . . . . . . . . . . . .£4.95 Chorizo hash, poached egg, hollandaise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5.95
MAIN COURSES Chicken Saltimbocca ...........£17.95 prosciutto, garden sage, Marsala butter sauce, seasonal vegetables
Trio of Beef ..........................£21.95 sirloin, confit oxtail croquette, slow braised cheek, truffle mash, red cabbage, red wine & port reduction
Trio of Pork ..........................£19.95 slow braised cheek, crispy belly, pancetta wrapped loin, bubble & squeak mash, red cabbage, garden sage & apple brandy sauce
King prawn & mussels, tomato, chorizo, tagliatelle................£19.95 Roasted salmon, spicy tomato risotto, buttered samphire, calamari ..............................£17.95 Pot roasted lamb breast ......£21.95 with herb mash, rosemary jus, pickled beetroot, baby vegetables
Warm salad of green beans, chestnut mushrooms ...........£12.95 confit cherry tomato, soft poached egg, Italian dressing (v)
Butternut squash, feta & spinach risotto .....................£12.95 Toasted pumpkin seeds, shaved parmesan (v)
BATH ARMS FAVOURITES Homemade steak & ale pie Seasonal vegetables, creamy mash, red wine gravy . . . . . . . . .£11.95 Bath Arms burger Cheddar smoked cheese, relish, hand cut chips, coleslaw . . . . . . .£11.95 Add bacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£1.00 Smoked bacon & mushroom Carbonara tagliatelle, garlic bread .£9.95 Home roasted maple & mustard glazed ham, free range fried eggs, hand cut chips . . . . . . . . . . .£9.95 Jungle curry with jasmine rice Beef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£11.95 Chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£10.95 Prawn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£11.95 Vegetable (v) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£9.95 Buttermilk fried chicken, sweet potato fries, chipotle coleslaw . . . . . . . .£11.95 Thatchers Gold battered fish & hand cut chips, mushy peas, tartare sauce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£11.95 Salmon & dill fishcakes on smoky bacon creamed leeks . . . . . . . . .£10.95 MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 85
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HOMES & INTERIORS
The experience behind TNR THE people at TNR have been in the trade for up to 17 years and have worked with an array of clientèle working on smaller jobs, like fitting a skylight, to a range of full loft conversions, steel frame barn conversions, single storey extensions and commercial and domestic solar panel installation. Based in Bridgwater and covering the whole of the South West, Wales and the Midlands, TNR provides clients with the full property development package to suit their budget and requirements. In operation since 2009, the owner of TNR has over 15 years’ experience in the trade, working with local residential clients along with large commercial businesses in central London, Oxford and more. TNR is much more than just another roofing company; with the certifications, experience and a passion for property development as a whole, you can rest assured you are in safe hands. Some of the larger scale projects TNR have worked on include a 14-month project creating a raised aluminium roof
for Mulberry All Girls’ School on the A13 in London, installation of all skylights for the Royal Mail head sorting office in Nottingham, project manager for the roof of Lidl, Weston-super-Mare and the complete re-roof using an Overclad System for Elexis, Bridgwater. TNR have also carried out over 20 solar panel installations for Future Energies and fitted an abundance of single ply flat roof systems for both domestic and commercial clientele.
TNR can provide a project manager to co-ordinate larger projects, i.e. a loft conversion, extension etc. so you can be totally stress-free throughout the development. With access to carpenters, plumbers, electricians, decorators and a variety of other tradesmen, TNR provide the right man for the right job, all included in one quotation, no worries about organising a multitude of tradesmen – TNR are the one stop shop for property development.
FREE SURVEYS COMPETITIVE PRICES FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL ADVICE CAN MANAGE ALL YOUR BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL BUILDING AVAILABLE, SOLAR INSTALLER
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL
Industrial cladding Warehouses Factory Units New Gulley Liners & Repair New Sky Lights Corrugated Light Panels (transluscent/ or transparent)
DEVELOPMENT
Rendering Tanking Damp Proofing Plastering Footings and Concrete work Patios & Decking
TNR Roofing & Property Development Parkstone Avenue Bridgwater Somerset TA6 6DN PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
DOMESTIC
Tiling Velux Windows installation Loft Conversions UPVC Fascias and Guttering Chimney Work Single Ply Flat Roofing Systems High Performance Felt Roofing Lead Works (Heritage & Regulation)
Tel: 01278 444242 / 07727 191216 Email: tone@tnrroofing.co.uk Website: tnrroofing.co.uk
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JACKSONS
Jacksons Fencing – news, topical treats and more . . .
Think your garden is too small for an outdoor room? Think again . . .
LAST month we featured our beautiful new Curve garden shelter, to inspire you with your spring garden projects. Talking of spring, I hope I’m not tempting fate by mentioning that we should be looking forward to some better weather as the clocks go forward. The Curve has created quite a stir since its launch earlier this year. The garden shelter with its generous interior space: approximately 3.1m wide x 5.3m deep and 2.2m high, is big enough to set up a dining area leaving plenty of room for a chill-out zone as well. However, if space is at a premium in your garden, or maybe you have something more along the lines of a courtyard space to get creative with, then don’t despair. You may not have to miss out on the pleasures of the outdoor room that many people find such a desirable idea these days, that sought after area for quality lifestyle activities; entertaining,
partying or simply just relaxing in. Please allow me to introduce you to what I describe as the Curve’s little sister, the equally stylish Demi Curve. With a footprint of approximately 3.1m wide x 2.7m deep and 2.2m high. Smaller than ‘big sister’, but perfectly formed, it is just right for the urban garden or courtyard, although it is still large enough to house a comfortably sized sofa and chairs set with a low table, just right for relaxing with your Kindle and your favourite tipple. Alternatively swap those for a dining table and chairs and it will make a delightful al fresco area for summer feasting. And like the larger Curve, the Demi Curve also has the additional protection of polycarbonate sheets, that cover the panels to give you a little extra shelter from showers and the wind. As with all Jacksons products, the garden shelters are handmade from
Jakcured timber, guaranteed for 25 years, so you can enjoy them for many years to come. Find out more by going to your dedicated page www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/bathlocal where there are links to these and many other products and features. louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk
WIN £300 OF JACKSONS VOUCHERS
To enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win £300 of Jacksons vouchers simply log on to your dedicated page, address below and follow the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 30.4.16. To enter go to: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal
For info on any of Jacksons products or brochures please call 0800 408 4754 to talk to your local Jacksons Fencing Centre. MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2106 • PAGE 87
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Make it a blissful spring
IF you are considering installing a wood burner or multi-fuel stove, now is the perfect time to be contacting Blissful Burners! With the joy of spring, Blissful Burners can bring you the joy of a beautiful but functional addition to your home. Don't be tempted to put it off until autumn because that's when most others think to do the same. A wood burner or stove can be a most attractive feature of a room, to be enjoyed all year round, not just during the cold spells. Be ahead of the game and contact Blissful Burners now for a free, no obligation home visit. For those who have a burner or stove they ask: “When was the last time it was maintained by either yourself or anyone else? For example, it may be necessary to re-seal the joints with fire cement or heat resistant mastic; you may choose to blacken your stove with high temperature paint, or stove black; is it necessary to replace or re-stick the stove rope; is the glass cracked and needs replacing or just needs a clean.” If you need an expert to fulfil this maintenance task then Blissful Burners can help. See their website for more details.
PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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Another satisfied customer
WHEN designing a new family living area, the direction the light is coming from is paramount in creating a natural, inviting space. This was the problem faced by the Ingleby family when converting their kitchen, lounge and extension into a open plan family room. With access to the garden through double sets of French doors the family decided they wanted unparalleled views over the Mendips behind. “When West End Windows came for a
quotation the size of the aperture meant we had a multitude of options available,” says Mark Ingleby. “We were advised of a three track door which with the doors closed would offer us the best sightlines, while with them pulled back we would have an opening spanning nearly three metres.” The final product was an aluminium framed Visoglide Sliding Door with thickened low “E” glass offering the best thermal qualities available. All of which
HOMES & INTERIORS
was manufactured at West End Windows factory in the local area while the installation was carried out by their trained team of fitters. “It really made a difference knowing the entire project was being handled by an experienced accredited company from start to finish,” says Helen Ingleby, “The room has been transformed into a modern, open living space, which has become the focal point of the house.”
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 89
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Tony Hucker TV Service – Sales – Rental
• • • • • •
Satellite Installations Aerial Systems TV wall mounting Custom Installations Networking Signal Solutions
01275 332888 www.tonyhuckertv.co.uk Email: tony@tonyhuckertv.co.uk Unit 4, Fairseat Workshops, Chew Stoke BS40 8XF Open: Mon – Thurs 9.00am – 6.00pm Fri – 9.00am – 5.30pm
FAMILY BUSINESS BASED IN THE CHEW VALLEY FOR OVER 100 YEARS
PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
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Mendip Times reduces travel costs
100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business
✆ 01934 621319 ✆ 07412 473803
• Full range of floor coverings available • Carpets from £5.99 per square metre Independent flooring experts established for over 30 years @ trevorsmithflooring@gmail.com ? Weston-super-Mare 33a Oldmixon Crescent • Weston-super-Mare BS24 9BA
HOMES & INTERIORS
RH
Windows THE CHEW VALLEY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED WINDOW COMPANY WITH A REPUTATION BUILT ON QUALITY AND SERVICE FOR CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS AND DOORS IN HARDWOOD OR UPVC
HARDWOOD JOINERY SPECIALISTS www.rhwindowsltd.co.uk
Telephone: 01761 452171 Fax: 01761 453342
MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016 • PAGE 91
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The show goes on
SPRING time is advancing like a show preparing to open. Out hacking the sun is warmer, primroses replace snowdrops and, in Tam’s stables, wrens, robins and sparrows are competing for the swallows’ nests, lining them with moss, hay and Tam’s moulting hair. With RACHEL Talking of show preparations I decided to THOMPSON check out the action behind the scenes at the MBE Frome Agricultural and Cheese Show office. I love agricultural shows – scrummy local food, crafts, dogs, horses, farm animals, people (especially characters and much more) – a microcosm of all that is great about the Mendip community. We are so lucky that shows continue to thrive and survive in these fast-paced, electronically driven times, thanks to hardworking staff and so many volunteers. Frome show is increasingly popular – every year it attracts more than 20,000 visitors, 350 tradestands and 4,600 class entries. Entering an office where every available bit of space seems taken up by wall charts, shelves of trophies and box files I am greeted by the team – former three-day eventer Nicki Parnell (in charge of tradestands) and new show secretary Julie Harding. Julie is the former editor of Eventing magazine and continues to be a freelance journalist in her “spare” time. The Frome Cheese Show offers interesting company indeed and inevitably the discussion veers towards equine matters. For Nicki, a wonderful three-day event career, competing at major events such as Badminton and Burghley on her 16hh Selle Francais gelding Prairie King, was kick-started by accompanying her older siblings to the local riding school at the age of two. The pinnacle of the pair’s competing came when representing Bermuda at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics when Prairie King was a mere nine-years-old. Julie learned to ride with Mrs Crouch in Upton Noble – regular readers will note that the legendary Mrs Crouch is mentioned again! What a legacy – enthusing so many Mendip children with a passion for ponies. Julie laughs: “Mrs Crouch
Nicki in action at the Burghley Horse Trials on Prairie King, nicknamed “Froggy”
PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
Nicki (left) and Julie in the show office
launched many a career and terrified many a child, including me.” In those days, there were no arenas to learn in, just bombing off around the fields. Julie became a freelance journalist, covering horse trials for Horse & Hound, Horse & Hound Online and Eventing magazine, including three Olympics for the latter – Athens, Beijing (Hong Kong) and London. She lost her riding nerve for many years but has since recovered it and is enjoying hacking out locally once again. Equine lows? Nicki says hearing that Prairie King’s competition days were sadly over due to a diagnosis of arthritis of the knee; for Julie, falling off twice due to suffering sunstroke in the Australian Outback. Highs? The girls grin competitively! Julie says winning a clear round rosette with Mrs Crouch at Longleat; Nicki laughs – riding at Badminton Horse Trials in 1993. Nicki has now retired from equestrian life, spending her free time snowboarding in the French Alps and, ironically, breaking a rib, having survived eventing relatively injury free. By contrast, Julie has recovered her lost nerve through acquiring gentle giant ex-hunt master’s horse, the 17hh Apollo, followed by the quiet Thoroughbred Tommy, bred and still owned by Horse & Hound correspondent Carole Mortimer, as well as two rescue ponies acquired from World Horse Welfare. Tips for other riders? Julie says don’t overface yourself, take the time to find the right horse and your friends aren’t necessarily the best advisors! Nicki agrees – picking out the best bits from a constant torrent of well-meaning advice was vital during her career. With such a wealth of experience and expertise on offer in the office, what’s new at the show for equestrians? The team is planning a thrilling six-bar show jumping class, where the jumps get higher and higher and only the best will survive being knocked out by a falling pole. It’s bound to be fun. Why not go along to find out? This year’s show is on Saturday, September 10th. See you there!
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A lasting reminder
Swan Artworks are always happy to discuss imaginative ways to frame rosettes, medals and certificates
PRIZE-winning rosettes and medals hanging over the stable door are certainly one way to celebrate the successes of horse and rider, but having them framed sympathetically and imaginatively will mean the memories stay precious for longer. Swan Artworks at Paulton specialise in framing the unusual and Carrie and Tony Osborne are always delighted to discuss different ideas. Carrie said: “If riders have a summer of shows and events to look forward to, why not celebrate your successes with our rosette/medal framing? “With perhaps a photograph or two of the day alongside as well, having the items framed would also make an ideal present.” Carrie added: "In sporting in general we have framed a lot of items of huge personal achievement that our customers should rightly be very proud of; from London Marathon medals, darts championship shirts and medals to a wonderful medal and rosette set for a customer who took part in the Special Olympics Equestrian Team. “We've even framed an entire Olympic torch complete with the tracksuit worn whilst carrying it!"
Britta’s brave recovery
RIDING
BRITTA Francis is set to make a remarkable return to riding at the Langford Equine Vets Final Dressage Championships to be held on Good Friday. For the last four years she has been recovering from major spinal surgery that left her unable to walk. Before that she had been named most improved rider at the British Dressage Para Home International and been selected for the British Equestrian Federation’s South West regional paradressage training squad. She said: “I have had to relearn how to stand, walk, do steps then stairs. It took me three years of really intensive therapy before I could even begin to try riding the fabulous Avon RDA equine simulator, a mechanical horse designed for use as therapy. “Initially sessions could only be short as it was all I could tolerate pain and fatigue wise and it would take me days to recover from, but gradually I was able to tolerate more and move towards learning to ride again. “It took many months until I finally got back in the saddle again at Urchinwood Manor Equestrian Centre’s ‘have a go’ riding day. They are now RDA accredited and in those first 15 minutes back on a real horse, I amazed everyone, none more so than myself, by not only having a walk round, but also a trot and even a canter.” At Christmas she entered a fun fancy dress competition at Urchinwood, then in February, on what was still only her eighth time back on a horse, she entered the Langford Equine Vets Dressage Qualifier and came second competing against able bodied riders. Britta, from Blagdon, said: “My ever wonderful and utterly fabulous parents, Kathryn and Roger, have been an incredible support, especially when you consider they can’t stand horses. “The support and kindness and care that we as a family have received is truly wonderful and greatly appreciated.”
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RIDING
A festival of racing
By Mark Adler
CHAMPION trainer Paul Nicholls took time off from his yard’s Cheltenham Festival preparations to support this year’s Blackmore and Sparkford Vale Point-to-Point meeting. And there was no better way to end the day than seeing daughter Olive, ten, finish clear in one of the two pony races which concluded the day at the races. Six feature races at Charlton Horethorne attracted a big crowd. G The Mendip Farmers’ Point-to-Point meeting was being held at Ston Easton as Mendip Times went to press. We’ll bring you details next month.
y
Want to get ahead? Get a bowler hat – some of the paddock stewards Rotablade clears a fence in the Hopkins Concrete Ladies Open Race, won by Taylor Pook on Minella Fifty
Two of the fence stewards ahead of an afternoon’s duty
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Some of the young jockeys who competed in the pony races
Stride by stride: Buck’s Bond (right) owned by Catherine Penny of Ston Easton and ridden by Will Biddick jumps strongly, but came in fourth in the final race Join Together (right), trained by Rose Loxton and ridden by Briony Frost, on his way to victory in the opening race
Olive Nicholls on her way to victory on board Churchill
Paul Nicholls with Ben Godfrey, 15, winner of the race for ponies 138cms high and under
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SPORT
Sprint finish by the lake ONE of the season’s early road races ended in a thrilling finish by Chew Valley Lake, as Dale Appleby from NFTO Pro Cycling CYCLING won the annual with EDMUND LODITE Severn Bridge Road Race. The 44th running of the event returned to a challenging course of 110km, starting from Bishop Sutton and taking ten laps of a circuit over Stowey Hill. The field size was 80 and with professional teams and top riders from across Britain taking part each team was limited to four riders. This made for a fair race, but harder for those used to a large team. After the first two laps, a trio of riders got away and held onto that lead for around four laps, fighting for the title of King of the Mountains during the climbs up Stowey Hill. The gap to the main group was never that big and
around a dozen riders broke free and closed in on the leaders. During the next few laps, there were a number of attacking moves that created gaps amongst the leading bunch. On the final climb over the top of Stowey Hill, three riders had broken away including Dale Appleby (NFTO), Edward Clemens (Spirit Bikes) and Max Stedman (Pedal Heaven). With a mainly downhill run over 12 kilometres to the finish line no one was going to catch them. Stedman threw in a few attacks but was unable to break the group up. That set up a sprint finish ending by Chew Valley Lake, with Appleby finishing inches ahead of Clemens, and Stedman three seconds behind. Dexter Gardias (Pedal Heaven), one of the early leaders in the race, was winner of the King of the Mountains. This was a perfect start to the road season for Appleby, who said: "We went in to the race with a strong team with the hope of trying to win it. We had just come back from Calpe training camp so
Dale Appleby
we were all a bit tired. We raced well together, covered the moves and managed to get me and Rob (Partridge) in the break. “Rob wasn't feeling too good so he said he would cover the moves for me. I felt confident in the sprint, which I went on to win. It's great to get the first win of the year for John (Wood, NFTO boss) and all of the sponsors before going to Belgium/Holland for 3 x UCI races; we'll be out there to prepare for the upcoming big British races."
Edmund Lodite has been a life-long cyclist who took up road bikes after competing in triathlons.
Award for tennis club
(l-r): Brian Clarke, Dan Cooke, Kim Hole, Kevin Durney, Marcus Fisher and Vicky Flicker
WELLS Tennis Club has gained “Tennismark” approval from the Lawn Tennis Association. The award recognises that the club has good standards of management, employment, coaching, competition opportunities and promotion. Securing the accreditation will help the club apply for grants and further support from national sporting organisations. At its annual meeting, the club elected a new chairman, Dan Cooke who succeeds Brian Clarke.
Open day at bowls club
Last year’s open day was popular with families
WEDMORE Bowls Club is holding its second Open Day on Sunday, May 8th, following the success of a similar event last year. The club has both indoor and outdoor bowling facilities and is open to people of all ages and abilities. Club members will be on hand to help anyone wanting to try out the sport. The open day runs from 10am-4pm. For details, visit: www.isleofwedmorebowlsclub.org
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Winning – on and off the track
MEMBERS of the official club for horseracing fans in Britain have voted Wincanton as their best small racecourse for 2015 in the South West and Wales. Voting across the 5,000-strong membership of the Racegoers Club also saw Cheltenham Racecourse take the honour of being the number one racecourse, winning the top accolade – Racecourse of the Year – for the 12th consecutive year despite ongoing redevelopment throughout 2015. Huw Williams, Wincanton’s General Manager, said: “It is a huge honour to have won the 2015 Racegoers Club Best Small Racecourse in the South West and Wales category. This is a fitting reward to the entire Wincanton team that put their heart and soul into their racecourse.” G Tagrita offered a little cheer to Ditcheat-based champion trainer Paul Nicholls at the Bathwick Tyres Kingwell Hurdle meeting at Wincanton, winning the third race. Irving, his hope for the Grade Two Kingwell Hurdle feature race finished a distant last. But Nicholls enjoyed greater success further afield with Silviniaco Conti boosting his Cheltenham chances with an easy victory at Ascot.
Somerset Jem, owned by the Waldegrave Arms syndicate at Chewton Mendip, on his way to victory in the opening race of the prestigious Bathwick Tyres Kingwell Hurdle meeting at Wincanton. The horse is trained by Kevin Bishop, from Spaxton
Somerset Jem’s jockey Conor Smith and Sarah Macey, representing the Waldegrave Arms syndicate, receive their prizes from Wayne Clifford of Bathwick Tyres
Tagrita heads for home to claim the Bathwick Tyres Yeovil Handicap Hurdle Race. Oscarteea, trained by Neil Mulholland of Limpley Stoke, came second
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James Molloy, of Portishead, was celebrating his stag do with his first visit to Wincanton on Kingwell Hurdle day
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On your marks for the festival run
Michael Eavis with members of The Festival Run committee in front of the pyramid stage
ENTRIES open on Saturday, April 9th for The Festival Run – a unique once-a-year opportunity to race around the iconic Glastonbury Festival site at Pilton. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, October 9th with a choice of distances of 2km, 5km or 10km. Entries are capped at a total of 800. Entry fees are: *10k – affiliated £12, unaffiliated £14 *5k – affiliated £8, unaffiliated £10 *2k – £4 (accompanying adults free) All profits from The Festival Run will be donated to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Alzheimer’s Society South West.
SPORT
Club celebrates its history
TIMSBURY Athletic Football Club will be holding an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia at the Conygre Hall, Timsbury on Saturday March 26th to celebrate their 125th anniversary. The event will incorporate a players’ reunion and the club is hopeful that many former members of the club will go along. In its early days the club was known as the Ramblers and played its football at Mead Close in the village, which is now Lansdown View. Early in the 20th century the club changed its name to Athletic and moved to the Glebe Field. It remained there until the 1960s when the church sold the field for housing and the club moved to the Recreation Field where it has played ever since. The club now run two senior sides in the Somerset County League and Mid-Somerset League and numerous youth teams. The exhibition opens at 11am and admission is free. Details: Martyn Sage 07785 585686.
For information and entry details, visit: http://www.piltonvillage.co.uk/festival-run.html follow on Facebook and Twitter or e-mail thefestivalrun@gmail.com
Anyone for bowls?
CHEW Stoke Bowling Club is holding its annual open day in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind on Sunday April 24th, from 10.30am. All are welcome and free coaching will be provided – just take along a pair of shoes with flat soles. If you can’t make the open day, you will be welcome on a Monday evening at 6pm on or after Monday May 9th.
Details: www.chewstokebowlingclub.co.uk
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Croquet for beginners
CAMERTON and Peasedown Croquet Club will be holding their beginners’ course on Sunday afternoons, from 2pm to 4.30pm on April 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th, then May 1st. All equipment will be provided – all you need is a pair of flat-soled shoes. The club’s experienced and accredited coaches will take you through all the different skills and tactics you’ll need to play this increasingly popular game. All this for £25 for all five sessions The club has established itself as part of the community. It offers superb facilities, with four lawns, a club pavilion and beautiful views across the Somerset countryside. The club will be hosting world championship matches from May 15th – 21st. Details: Mo Boys 01225 708540 www.camertonpeasedowncroquet.co.uk
Spring is here – come and enjoy a game of bowls! Enrolment Night, Friday, April 1st from 7pm No membership fee to pay for the first year New players very welcome (tuition by our expert coaches) Green opens Saturday, April 9th Indoor rinks available if wet
Relax in our enlarged and refurbished clubhouse. Live entertainment
Purnell Bowling Club, Purnell Sports Ground, Old Bristol Road, Paulton, Bristol BS39 7NX www.purnellbowls.wordpress.com PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
SPORT
Season set to start in style
OUTDOOR matches begin in April at Purnell Bowling Club at Paulton and an enrolment evening is taking place to encourage new members. The clubhouse – which also houses an indoor bowling rink – has been extended and refurbished to make it even more welcoming throughout the year. Players – new or experienced – who join at the enrolment evening on Friday, April 1st will also enjoy a year’s free membership. Purnell BC currently has around 80 outdoor members who play from April until the middle of September; meanwhile, the indoor facility boasts a 200-strong membership as it offers year-round opportunities. Club chairman Don Dart said: “The club overall is in a very good position, with membership consolidating, which is going against the trend. “When we extended the clubhouse we created room for a skittle alley which will add to the social aspect, with live entertainment once a month on a Friday evening with singer, comedians and the like.” The club will celebrate the 10th anniversary in September of the opening of the indoor facility with a gala dinner. Club president Bryn Hawkins said: “Some people were unsure whether building the indoor rink was a good idea. But we are still here and the dinner will allow us to say thank you to some of the people who made it happen.”
Players of all abilities are being invited to join Purnell Bowling Club
Somerset’s future olympic stars?
TWO swimmers from Glastonbury have become the latest to receive financial support from the Somerset sports charity TS5C in their efforts to become Olympic stars of the future. Christian Slater, 21, and Cameron Kurle, 18, will both be receiving grants in this Olympic year. Christian is still hoping to qualify for the games in Rio. Cameron has been earmarked as a possible contender for 2020. Since 2007, TS5C has provided £175,000 in funds to young athletes and sports organisations. TS5C Chairman, Alan Gloak, said: “TS5C relies solely on the goodwill of small local businesses and individuals. But it is worth the time and effort to raise funds to provide financial assistance to the young talent that is coming through. “ G TS5C is holding a St George’s Day fundraising fish and chip supper on Saturday, April 23rd at Knight’s Fish Restaurant in Glastonbury. Tickets are £20 a head. For details visit www.ts5c.org or contact Alan Gloak at a.gloak@btinternet.com
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Concert aids foundation
SOMERSET Community Foundation has arranged for the world-class choir Tenebrae to perform a one-off concert at Wells Cathedral in aid of the foundation, thanks to one of its long-term supporters. Widely regarded as one of the world’s finest vocal ensembles, Tenebrae will be performing their programme ‘A Hymn of Heavenly Beauty’ at 7.30pm on Friday, April 15th. This programme features some of the most beautiful choral works ever written ranging from the masters of the Renaissance through to modern day luminaries such as John Tavener. Tenebrae has appeared at some of the world’s most prestigious festivals including the BBC Proms, City of London Festival, Edinburgh International Festival, Three Choirs Festival and Montreux Choral Festival. Tickets, £10 each, are on sale in the Wells Cathedral Shop box office. Details: 01749 344949
Music charity’s top award
MUSIC charity Jackdaws Music Education Trust, based near Frome, has had its OperaPLUS schools project named Best Classical Music Education Initiative in a national competition organised by Classic FM. The award is recognition of its outstanding contribution and achievements since its inaugural project in 2010. Every year since then, it has brought high-quality opera into schools across Somerset, introducing countless children and adults alike to the art form in an accessible and inclusive setting. In 2015 alone the project worked with 14 schools with up to 120 children in each of the five performances across the county. This year it is producing Donizetti’s The Love Potion (L’elisir d’amore) with five performances this April, involving 16 schools. The project brings together primary school children to perform alongside professional opera singers from Jackdaws Young Artist programme. Jackdaws Artistic Director, Saffron van Zwanenberg, said: “OperaPLUS is so important to me personally. I loved opera as a child, for the tunes, the stories, the epic struggles and the rib aching comedy. I wanted more
Top young musician
MUSIC
PHOEBE Lynch, a young trumpeter from Axbridge and a student at Kings of Wessex Academy, won first prize in the Rotary Club of Mendip Young Musician Competition. She went on to the Rotary district competition, where she was runner-up in the instrumentalist section, and goes forward to the Rotary regional competition. Maggie Steel, from the Rotary Club of Mendip said, “We are all thrilled at Phoebe’s success. Up against an extraordinary array of talent from young musicians across the district, she gave a wonderful performance, and we wish her well as she progresses to the regional finals.” Phoebe was presented with her certificate by Brian Kirkup, past Rotary District Governor.
L to r: Margherita Taylor, Classic FM presenter, René BloiceSanders, company member, Audrey Hyland, music director, Saffron van Zwanenberg, Director and Sam Taylor, Classic FM managing editor).
children from all backgrounds to have access to this unique art form, I knew that if it was presented in an accessible way they would love it too, and they have never let me down.”
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Garden festival celebrates Queen’s birthday
THE English Country Garden Festival at the Bishop’s Palace in Wells will celebrate our horticultural heritage and the Queen’s 90th birthday. Visitors will see the palace gardens filled with talks, stalls, hands-on demonstrations, refreshments, entertainment, top gardening personalities and new ideas on how to use and love their gardens. The first event last year was a huge success, featuring celebrity gardeners Alan Titchmarsh, Stephen Lacey and Christine Walkden. The general theme this year, from Friday June 10th – Sunday June 12th, will be The English Country Garden and the festival will be opened by gardening expert and broadcaster, Roy Lancaster, one of several experts attending during the weekend. On Sunday June 12th there will be a Grand Picnic near the Rose Garden to coincide with the Queen’s 90th birthday giant street party in London. The Wells and District Floral Arts Society will also be honouring the Queen’s birthday with a special display. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk by phone 01749 988111 or from the palace shop.
Animals take centre stage
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IT’S lambing time at Puxton Park and for a week from Saturday March 26th the public are invited to meet the new arrivals – make sure you have your cameras at the ready. The park’s Easter celebrations will start with a disco and Easter bonnet contest on Friday March 25th. Their dairy cows will take centre stage on April 9th and 10th as staff show how they are milked and groomed for shows – and how milk is turned into ice cream.
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Concorde still attracts the crowds
WHAT’S ON
IT’S 40 years since the first British Concorde 002 flew for the last time, landing at RNAS Yeovilton, where it has since attracted five million visitors to the Fleet Air Arm museum. After completing a seven-year test programme, it arrived at RNAS Yeovilton on March 4th, 1976 and is now housed in one of the museum’s four exhibition halls. The museum’s curator of aircraft, Dave Morris, said: “After 40 years of being on display here, Concorde 002 is still one of the most inspiring and fascinating aircraft that our visitors come to see. “In 1903 The Wright Brothers flew 37 metres in 12 seconds, yet only 66 years later man was flying across the Atlantic at twice the speed of sound in Concorde. We are proud to be able to display this wonderful piece of aviation technology in our collection.” David Schwartz was the Leading Airman Photographer on the day Concorde 002 made its historic last flight. He travelled in a two-seater Hunter biplane to capture the moment. He said: “There was a surreal air of excitement that day. Concorde 002’s last flight was to end at Yeovilton after an historic flight with a Sea Fury alongside, for a few moments anyway. “The day ended joyfully and I was proud to have captured the moment of two great aircraft flying together.” Details: www.fleetairarm.com/aviation-museumconcorde.aspx
Find a few hours of peace
BUILT between 1175 and 1490, Wells Cathedral has been described as “the most poetic of the English cathedrals” and visitors are welcome every day of the year. Join a free scheduled daily tour with a highly trained cathedral guide, available every day except Sundays, and highlights could include the magnificent West Front, stunning scissor arches, one of the most substantial collections of medieval stained glass in England and medieval Vicars’ Close. The cathedral also runs free window walks and embroideries tours on most Saturday and Wednesday mornings (April-October) from 11.15am. No booking is required. Free explorer trails are available to help families to discover fun facts and information about the cathedral. Holiday activity workshops give opportunities for adults and children to “Have a Go” or get behind the scenes. Visitors are welcome to join daily services or to simply take time out and enjoy refreshments in the cathedral’s popular café. A second cathedral shop is also now open in Wells Market Place stocking products that promote the City of Wells as well as the wider local community. The second shop will also aim to provide an additional box office facility for Cathedral events. Details: Jill Hunt 07968 782719
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We are proud of you
Down by Avalon – Van the Man to headline Glastonbury Extravaganza Meet me in the country: tickets are now on sale for a very special performance by Van Morrison
Chris (centre) is pictured with the cinema’s founder Derek Cooper and the current owner, his daughter Sally
CHRIS Winter, chair of Wells Civic Society, has presented a commemorative plaque to Wells Film Centre, saying the city was proud to have enjoyed a three-screen, family-run cinema since 1992. The cinema is busy with preparations for the first city-wide film festival, opening on Thursday, April 21st.
MUSIC legend Van Morrison will headline the 20th anniversary of the Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza on Saturday, August 6th, one of only a handful of dates the singer will be playing in the UK this year. Michael Eavis, founder of the Glastonbury Festival and the celebration in the abbey grounds, said: "We needed something really special for this 20 year celebration and there can surely be nobody better than Van to arouse the spirits and stir up the emotions of this wonderful place!” Van last headlined the Glastonbury Extravaganza in 2007. He has played the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury Festival many times over three decades, most recently in 2004. Speaking from his home in Ireland, the singer – who visited the town as recently as last autumn – emphasised his close association with the world-famous corner of Somerset: "I’ve always found Glastonbury Abbey to have a special spiritual resonance for me and look forward to coming back this summer.” Meanwhile, music fans heading for the Extravaganza will also have the chance to extend their stay beyond the one night of spectacular music and fireworks. The very popular family camping facilities within easy distance of the abbey (shuttle bus service provided) have been expanded for 2016, allowing visitors to make the most of their stay in the Vale of Avalon. Abbey director Janet Bell said: "We are grateful to Michael Eavis for all the support he gives the abbey, and for staging the Extravaganza here. It is a spectacular backdrop for a traditional summer night out."
Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD
NOW SHOWING:
Batman Vs Superman (12A) 3D/2D Zootopolis (PG) 3D/2D My Big Fat Greek Wedding (12A) Risen (12A)
Starts Monday 4th April Friday 22nd April
The Huntsman • Winter’s War (12A) 3D/2D Special outside showing as part of Wells Film Festival
G Book in person G Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk G Over the ’phone: 01749 673195
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WHAT’S ON
Weston museum plans for the future
WESTON-super-Mare Museum is currently closed for refurbishment and is due to open again in 2017. The museum received a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2015 and is now designing and installing new facilities and displays within the old Gasworks Workshops in Burlington Street, where it has been for the past few decades. Throughout the closure, the museum team will also be running an outreach programme to engage with the surrounding community and provide continuing opportunities for historical
Volunteers are important
learning. Team members will be visiting schools, community groups and residential homes, as well as planning events. For regular updates on the project, including gallery plans, event schedules and information on how to access the collections during closure, head to the museum website – www.westonmuseum.org, email museum@wsmtc.gov.uk or phone 01934 621028.
Museum Workshop
For snippets of up to date information and fun historical facts, head to the museum Facebook page – WestonSuperMareMuseum, or Twitter – WestonsMareMuse’
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M e n d i p
Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. Commercial entries cost £25.
Thursday March 24th West Mendip Walkers leisurely circular walk of 6.6mi/10.7km from Huntspill OS Ex153 ST306455, start 1pm, park near church. Details: 01934 733783/07976 902706 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Chew Valley Wildlife Group Wolves Across Europe, with Richard Brock, Chew Magna Millennium Hall, 7.45pm, admission £2.50, season ticket available. Irish Set Dancing, Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PE, 810pm, £3. Details: Paul Harper 01458 210051. Friday March 25th Quiz Night, organised by Frome Guides, 7pm at Christ Church Parish Hall, Park Rd. Tables of 4 £20. Details: Jackie: 01373 452627. Saturday March 26th Willows & Wetlands Visitor Centre, Stoke St Gregory, TA3 6HY and Levels Best Farmers Market. Details: 01823 490249 www.coatesenglishwillow.co.uk Redhill Club Easter Raffle Evening with lots of lovely prizes to win. All welcome. Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619. Mendip Society walk Chew Magna, meet at 1.30pm in the public car park behind the Pelican Inn, Chew Magna (BS40 8SL), a walk of about five miles via Chew Valley Lake and Moorledge. Details: Roger 01225 872777. Easter Fair. Bay Centre, Cassis Close, Burnham-onSea. Organised by the Fibromyalgia Heart of Somerset support group and the BAY Centre committee. 2-5pm. Stalls, face-painting and children’s activities, cakes, refreshments. Sunday March 27th Norton/Radstock Ramblers circular walk from Keynsham to Willsbridge, 7.5 miles, meet 10am The Lock Keeper Pub, Keynsham, (small car park by side of pub) on the A4175 (BS31 2DD) ST660690. Details: Pam and Simone 01179674030 01179323518. Monday March 28th Medieval Falconry, Bishop’s Palace, Wells, 10am4pm, with the Raptor Foundation, included in admission, under-fives free. Details: 01749 988111 • www.bishopspalace.org.uk The Green Gardeners talk, Parish Rooms, Somerton, 7.30pm, The Folklore of Somerset by Les Cloutman, with refreshments after the talk, visitors most welcome, £2. Mells Daffodil Festival. Wednesday March 30th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support, Backwell W.I. Hall, 1.30pm with a demonstration of low vision aids. Details: 01275 462107. Mendip Society walk, meet 2pm in the car park behind the Pelican Inn, Chew Magna. A moderate circular 5m to Knowle Hill then on to the stone circles at Stanton Drew, return to Chew along the Two Rivers Way. ST 575631. Contact Bob: 01934 820575. Line dance Croscombe Village Hall, led by Toe the Line of Yeovil – modern and traditional, 7.30pm. Tickets: Croscombe Village Shop and Shepton Mallet Information Centre, £10 (£12 on the door) to buy equipment for Southmead Hospital. Details: 01749 345351. Thursday March 31st West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk, strenuous in parts, 12.6mi/20km from King’s of Wessex Academy, Cheddar OS Ex141 ST456532, start 10am, park near church. Details: 01934 733783/07976 902706 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Somerset Wildlife Trust East Mendip, talk by Bryan PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2016
T i m e s
Pinchen about the role of bees and wasps in our gardens, St Catherine’s Church Hall, Park Rd, Frome BA11 1EU, suitable for wheelchairs. Adults £2.50, children and students £1. Friday April 1st Redhill Club Open Mic Night, from 8pm, hosted by Jerry Blythe, free to join in, bring your voice, your instruments, all welcome, Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG. Details: 01934 862619. Jesters and Fools family games and activities for April Fool’s Day, 11am – 3pm at the Bishop’s Palace. Saturday April 2nd Spectra Musica concert, St. Michael’s Church, North Cadbury, 7.30pm with Musical Director Peter Leech, singing a varied programme, All In The April Evening. Tickets: 01747 841263 or on the door. Mendip Society walk, Dolbury Warren, meet at 2pm in the car park at the bottom of Burrington Coombe (BS40 7AT), 4 miles. Details: Peter 01761 221995. Jumble Sale, Winscombe Community Centre, Sandford Road, BS25 1JA, at 2pm in aid of the Millennium Green. Jumble welcome on morning or call 01934 843461. Nailsea & District Horticultural Society Spring Show, Nailsea School from 12.30pm. Adults £2, accompanied children free. Details: Jane Knight: 01275 855342 or Marn Davis: 01275 855563. Congresbury Table top sale Old School Rooms – 50p adults U16s free. Tombola, teas, coffees and cakes, books, mobile phones, coins and more. Proceeds to new village hall project. The Maesbury Singers, St John's Church Midsomer Norton. 7.30pm. Fauré's Requiem and motets for double choir. Tickets £8 from 01749 830486 or on door. BBC Get Creative Day, Black Swan Arts Centre, 2 Bridge St, Frome BA11 1BB. Fiona Campbell, Linda Sandeman, Yasemin Sweet, Alexander Langford and Lila Streether will be offering 20 min drop-in taster workshops. 2-4pm. Free. Ffi: 01373 473980 Sunday April 3rd Irish Set Dancing, Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PE, 810pm, £3. Details: Paul Harper 01458 210051. Norton/Radstock Ramblers: 10 miles through Woolley, Tadwick, Charmy Down. Starts 10am from Lansdown P&R, BA1 9BJ. ST732683. Leader David 01761 436503. Redhill Club Classic Car & Motorcycle Breakfast Gathering, 9am – 12noon on the recreation field and in the Village Hall. All welcome to park up for a chat and enjoy breakfast. Off A38 behind the church, Redhill, Bristol, BS40 5SG. Details: 01934 862619 Tuesday April 5th Mendip DFAS Take a Pinch (snuff boxes) with Ian Pickford, Bath & West Bar & Restaurant, B & W Show Ground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN, 11am, guests welcome. Details: www.mdfas.org.uk 01934 862435. Backwell Sequence Dance Club course for absolute beginners, WI Hall, Backwell, 7pm to 8pm, for eight weeks at £1.50 per person per week, first week free. Main club evening, 8pm to 10.15pm, £3 per person. Details: Brian Gage 01275 463692. Wednesday April 6th North Somerset Decorative & Fine Arts Society (NSDFAS), Tricia Passes the Blitz and the Festival of Britain, 37 Club, near Puriton, TA7 8AD, 2.15pm, guests £8. Norton/Radstock Ramblers seven-mile linear walk on levels, town and waterways from Sutton Mallet to Dunwear. Starts 10am Car Park at Dunwear Ponds on Dunwear Lane, TA6 5HJ. ST314359. Leader Tessa: 01761 470453/07811008567. Thursday, April 7th Irish Set Dancing. Dinder Village Hall BA5 3PE. 810pm. £3. Ffi: Paul Harper 01458 210051. Thursday April 7th – Friday April 8th “Around the World in Eighty Minutes”, an evening
W h a t ’ s
of song, dance and sketches by Timsbury Theatre Group at Conygre Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £8, child £6, Family £25 from www.thettg.org or 07542 152595. Sandford Station Railway Heritage Centre AGM and talk by Robin Thornes Quarry Stone and Railways, Winscombe Community Centre, 7.30pm. West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 8.65mi/13.84km from Cheriton Fitzpaine Memorial Hall, 100am, park at Memorial Hall. Details: 01934 733783 07976 902706 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Cheddar Valley U3A, Barefoot to Buckingham Palace – a talk by Susan Marshfield, Cheddar Village Hall 2.15pm, entry £2, visitors welcome. Friday April 8th Banwell Society of Archaeology, The History of Cider with John Thatcher, Banwell Village Hall, 7.30pm. Saturday April 9th Mendip Society Cheddar Bluebell Walk, meet 2pm by the Gardeners Arms, Silver St, Cheddar (BS27 3LE), five miles to hopefully to see the bluebells. Details: Gill 01934 742508. Street & Glastonbury U3A Coach trip to Portsmouth Old Naval Dockyard, 8am to 8pm. £35 per member. Details: Stephen Wright: 01458 442737. www.u3asites.org.uk/street-glastonbury Cheddar Male Choir with Launceston Male Voice Choir at St. Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, BA5 2AW, 7 for 7:30pm. To raise funds for Children’s Hospice South West during their 25th anniversary year. Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books. Mendip Society AGM at 7pm at The White Hart, The Bays, Cheddar, BS27 3QN. A speaker (TBA) and buffet will follow the AGM. Sunday April 10th The Daffodil Society Wessex Group annual show, Henton Village Hall, Nr Wells, 2pm-4.30pm, FREE admission. Details 01275 855675. Norton/Radstock Ramblers: six miles from Codford through fields. Starts 10am The Old Codford Road to west of the village, BA12 ONL. ST960402. Leader Sarah 07869 591189. North Somerset Ladies Doubles Tournament, 9.30am for 10am start, Winscombe LTC. £20 per couple incl lunch and refreshments throughout the day. Contact: gillsayzeland@googlemail.com or 01934 814236. Tuesday April 12th Weston-s-Mare Archaeological & Natural History Society, Mendip through the Time Tunnel, with Les Davies, Victoria Methodist Church Hall, Station Rd, BS23 1XU, 7.30 start, visitors welcome £2.50. Details: www.wanhs.org Clevedon Art Club continues its 60th Anniversary Year with Trevor Waugh’s demonstration, “Chasing the Light”, Clevedon School sixth form, 7.30pm. Wednesday April 13th NADFAS Study Day Capability Brown: 18th Century Nature, Art, Landscape, with Dr Twiggs Brown, Batcombe Hall BA4 6HE, 9.45-3.30pm, £32 inc lunch. Details: 01934 743153. Nailsea & District Horticultural Society, Fuschias with Brian Carlson, United Reformed Church, Nailsea, 7.30pm, members £2, visitors £3. Details: Martyn Davis 01275 855563 or Jane Knight 01275 855342. Wells Civic Society the life and times of a village grocer, with John Bartle, Wells and Mendip Museum, 7.30pm. Kilmersdon Gardeners, Kilmersdon Village Hall, BA3 5TD, 7.30pm "Forest Gardens" talk by Bryony Huntley, visitors £2, members free. All welcome. Thursday April 14th West Mendip Walkers mod circular walk 5.75mi/9.2km from Litton, 1pm park near King’s
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Arms Pub off B3144. Details: Jenny Nicholas 01934 853639 07803 722878 or jennymr7@aol.com Irish Set Dancing. Dinder Village Hall BA5 3PE. 810pm. £3. Ffi: Paul Harper 01458 210051. Friday, April 15th Concert. A Hymn of Heavenly Beauty by awardwinning choir Tenebrae in aid of Somerset Community Foundation. Wells Cathedral, 7.30pm. Tickets £10. Tel: 01749 672773. Saturday April 16th Trinity Singers concert, from Brahms to the Beatles, St. Mary’s Church, Yatton, 7.30pm, £10, under-18s free if accompanied by an adult. Details: Susannah Read 01934 844106 susannah_read@hotmail.com or www.trinitysingers.co.uk Mendip (recorder) Consort, O Magnum Mysterium, plus other pieces, including work by local composer Richard Peat, All Saints’ Church, Weston-s-Mare, 12noon, £7 incl interval drink. Somerset Plant Heritage Spring Plant Fair, Glastonbury Abbey, A361. 10am –3.30 pm. Adults £2, Children free. Kingsbury Episcopi band, nearby refreshments. Enquiries: 01278 451631. Cats Protection Spring Fair in Wells Town Hall (upstairs and downstairs), 9.30am – 2.30pm, admission free, but donations welcome – particularly cat food. Details: Janet 01749 880545. Wookey Spring Market @ Wookey Church Hall, Mary Brown Davis Lane, BA5 1JS. 9am-12.30pm. Local produce and crafts for sale. Enquiries 01749 677381. Chew Valley Choral Society sing Pergolesi Magnificat and Vivaldi Gloria amongst other popular works at St Andrews Church, Blagdon 7.30. Tickets £12 (£6 students and children) from members or 01275 333014 or on the door. Winscombe Lawn Tennis Club Open Day, 10am – 4pm, new members welcome. Watercolour workshop – Impressionistic Flowers and outdoor painting sessions at the Bishops’ Palace, Wells with David Simmons, 2pm-4pm, £10 per session. Glastonbury Cantilena Choir concert. Vivaldi (Gloria), Monteverde (Beatus Vir) and Handel (Dixit Dominus). 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Magdalene St., Glastonbury BA6 9EJ. Tickets £10 (children £1) available from The Glastonbury Music Shop, Benedict Street Glastonbury, by calling 01278 722870 or at the door. Ffi: cantilena@hotmail.co.uk Sunday April 17th Norton/Radstock Ramblers: 6.5mile river walk from Bath to Saltford then back along cycle path. Starts 10am Newbridge P&R, BA1 3NB. ST718657. Leader Sarah 07869 591189. Monday April 18th Timsbury Nats (Natural History Group) talk by NT Wiltshire Landscape Ranger Keith Steggall about the landscape and how it affects the habitat and the habitants. Conygre Hall, 7.30pm, visitors welcome, £3. Details: Martin, 01761 433234. East Harptree – NGS open garden, Rose Cottage, Smithams Hill, BS40 6BY. 2 – 5pm. Hillside cottage garden carpeted with spring flowers. Home-made teas and plant sales. Congresbury Brass Band playing. Admission £4.50 children free. Tuesday April 19th NADFAS lecture, Elizabethan textile furnishings, Caryford Hall, Castle Cary, BA7 7JJ, 10.30am, parking £6. Details: 01963 350 527. Bath Big Clothes Swap. Part of Bath in Fashion Week. Komedia, 22-23 Westgate Street, Bath BA1 1EP. Clothes accepted from 6pm, swap 7–9pm. Tickets £5 (includes welcome drink). Pay bar also available. Limited places. Book and pay in advance by calling Bath and North East Somerset Council on 01225 394041 or visit their One Stop Shops. Ffi: www.bathnes.gov.uk/textiles
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Wednesday April 20th Somerset Vernacular Buildings Group, Denny Robbins: Guederlon, a 13th Century Castle constructed in the 21st Century, 7.30pm, £3, Meadway Hall, Compton Dundon TA116PQ. All welcome. Norton/Radstock Ramblers: 6.5miles along ridge of Quantocks, Triscombe Stone to Fynne Court. Continuing our walk of The Samaritans Way SW. Start 10am Triscombe Stone Car Park, TA4 3HE. ST163358.Leader Tessa 01761 470453 / 07811 008567. Axbridge in the Monmouth Rebellion 1685, an illustrated talk by Brigadier Johnny Torrens-Spence for Axbridge Archaeological & Local History Society, 7.30pm at Cross Memorial Hall. There will be a tour of the battlefield on July 2nd. Details: 01934 712895. Thursday, April 21st Irish Set Dancing. Dinder Village Hall BA5 3PE. 810pm. £3. Ffi: Paul Harper 01458 210051. Thursday April 21st to Saturday April 23rd Mysterious goings on in Godney – inspired by “The Edge of Darkness”. Godney Amateur Dramatic Society, 7 for 7.30pm, Godney Village Hall. Licensed Bar. Tickets £9 from 07555 894765 or www.gadssomerset.org.uk. Thursday April 21st West Mendip Walkers mod circular walk 9mi/14.4km from Great Ostry, Shepton Mallet, 10am, meet public carpark at Great Ostry off B3136. Details: 01749 670349 or ken@kenmasters265.plus.com Cheddar Valley U3A, Meet & Greet Coffee Morning, Cheddar Village Hall, 10.30am to 12 noon, visitors welcome. Details: 01934 744241 or www.cheddarvalleyu3a.org.uk Friday April 22nd All Saints’ Church, WSM, BS23 4DQ. 7pm, Concert by Churchill Academy in aid of Parkinson’s Society. Tickets on the door. Chewton Mendip Village Hall Horse Race Night in aid of the hall roof fund. First race 8pm. Tickets £10, to include ploughmans supper and wine, from the village shop or 01761 241871. Wells Festival of Film – a special screening of “The Huntsman” on the croquet lawn at the Bishops’s Palace. Some scenes were filmed in Wells. Tickets £19.50. Saturday April 23rd Model Railway Show featuring TRIX and HORNBY, layouts and sales, also other makes, Eden Grove Methodist Church Hall, Horfield. Bristol BS7 0PQ, 10am-4pm, adults £2, U-12s free. Details: Dave 01934 838229. Burnham & Highbridge Choral Society perform 'The Armed Man' – A Mass for Peace by Carl Jenkins at St. Andrew's Church, Burnham-on-sea, 7.30pm. Ticketsfrom Material Needs, choir members or on the door. Mendip (recorder) Consort joint concert with choir, Moor Harmony, 7pm, St. Andrew’s Church, Cheddar, £7 inc interval drink. Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society & Cathedral Choristers: Great British Classics: a Celebration of HM the Queen. Tickets: £10 -£25, 01749 672773. Priston Jubilee & Somerset Morris Dancers will be celebrating St. George`s Day at The Hub Cafe, Wookey. Dancing starts 2.30 – Contact: Wendy 01761 472192.
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Wakeford Thomas Duo: Lucy Wakeford, harp; Kathryn Thomas, flute, 7.30pm – 9.30pm, St. John's Church, Churchill BS25 5QW. Tickets: Champions of Churchill Music! £10.50, visitors £14.50 U18s £4.00 from: Ursula Dornton: 01934 852919 or info@churchillmusic.org.uk Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books. All Saints’ Church, WSM, BS23 4DQ. 12- 1 pm. Lunchtime concert of Shakespeare songs, £7 on the door to include a light lunch and drinks. Wells Tennis Club open day. 9.30am onwards with BBQ from 3pm. Children and adults welcome. Free coaching and activities. Rackets and balls available. Full details at: www.wellstc.co.uk Sunday April 24th Norton/Radstock Ramblers: seven-mile circular walk from West Pennard, following parts of the Monarch’s Way. Starts 10am, park in village, meet at the Church, BA6 8NT. ST551382. Leader Rose 01761 435178. Congresbury Antiques & Collectors Fair a huge array of antiques and collectibles, 10am to 4pm. Entry 50p. The Old School Rooms, Station Road, BS49 5DX. Monday April 25th Somerton: Green Gardeners meeting, 7.30pm in the Parish Rooms, 'A Year in the Life of a Beekeeper' by Ron Dinsdale. Visitors welcome (£2) refreshments after the talk. Tuesday April 26th Chew Valley School Society quiz night, all teams welcome – to raise funds for the school, £8 per person inc ploughman’s supper. Details: chewvalleyschoolsociety@gmail.com or Helena Craig: 07798 818772. “Friendly Societies and their Brass Emblems” a talk for The Street Society by Philip Hoyland at 7.30pm, The Methodist Church Hall, Leigh Rd, Street. Visitors welcome, £2. Refreshments available. Thursday April 28th West Mendip Walkers mod circular walk 6.2mi/9.92km from Shipham Village Hall, 1pm, park at village hall. Details: 01934 743088 or rogermead1941@hotmail.co.uk Irish Set Dancing. Dinder Village Hall BA5 3PE. 810pm. £3. Ffi: Paul Harper 01458 210051. Saturday April 30th – Monday May 2nd Batik & Quilting Exhibition, 10am-4pm, St Nicholas’ Church, Brockley BS48 3AX. All proceeds to the church water project. Refreshments available, free entry. Enquiries to Connie 01275 462179 Saturday April 30th Trinity Singers eighth annual plant and cake sale, St. Mary’s Church, Langford, 10am-12.30pm, £1 children free. Antiques, plants, books and jewellery. Details: 01934 844106 susannah_read@hotmail.com or www.trinitysingers.co.uk Craft Fair at Camerton Hall in aid of Children’s Hospice SW, 10am-1pm. A variety of craft stalls, refreshments, plants & homemade cakes. Somerset Wildlife Trust plant sale and open garden at Rookery House, The Causeway, Mark (on B3139). 10.30am-1pm. Admission £2 inc. coffee. Cake sale, exhibitions, a raffle and activities for children. Easy parking in field opposite by kind permission of M/s G. Isgar.
MENDIP MINDBENDER ANSWERS FOR APRIL
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Across: 1 Capital, 5 Goodwin, 9 Benbecula, 10 Golem, 11 Reeds, 12 Safety pin, 14 Tip, 16 Unequivocal, 18 Cheapskates, 19 Sub, 21 Potpourri, 23 Almug, 25 Eaten, 26 Appraisal, 27 Sincere, 28 Nudists. Down: 1 Cabaret, 2 Penge, 3 Tree stump, 4 Loudspeaker, 5 Goa, 6 Ought, 7 Wolf packs, 8 Nominal, 13 Fountain pen, 15 Prestatyn, 17 Visual aid, 18 Cypress, 20 Biggles, 22 Ounce, 24 Moses, 26 Ate.
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Church exhibition
THESE stunning images will be among those in a display of batik and quilting at St. Nicholas’ Church, Brockley from April 30th – May 2nd. They have been made by Connie Ridge, who runs classes at her farm in the village. There will also be quilts, lampshades and other goods for sale to raise funds to supply water to the church. Entrance is free and there will be refreshments. The exhibition will be open from 10am-4pm.
LIVE MUSIC FROM 9pm EVERY FRIDAY! March 25th: STONE DEAF “Guitar-led R ‘n’ B and blues” April 1st: RAY JONES BAND “Rock and R ‘n’ B covers at their best” April 8th: NO MEAT FEET “The finest rock and blues covers” April 15th: ZETON SPORE “Didgeridoo dance ‘n’ trance” April 22nd: THE TRIPES “Rock originals and covers – with a twist!” April 29th: TBA May 6th: SNAKE EYES “Non-stop talented guitar-led band”
SATURDAYS – COCKTAILS AND KARAOKE! Follow all our news including regular prize quizzes by finding us on Facebook.
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WHAT’S ON
New look for historic show
REGULAR visitors to the annual Royal Bath and West Show will this year be treated to some exciting changes to the features and the layout. The biggest change will see a new Great British Food and Drink area, with live music and more than 100 producers, on what used to be the village green. The show – from Wednesday June 1st to Saturday, June 4th – will also host The British Cheese Awards and the British Cider Championships. The new music area is a fresh addition to the show – the only four-day Royal show –with acts being sourced this year by Glastonbury Festival founder and current Royal Bath and West of England Society president Michael Eavis. Music will take place throughout the day and into the early evening bringing a festival feel to the showground. A spokeswoman said: “Although lots of changes are taking place, the show remains true to its roots with the finest offering of livestock in the country you can get. “This year, on the first day of the show, it is all about the next generation with competitions taking place including a New Team Challenge sponsored by The Royal Agricultural University. “In the sheep lines the Texel Focus Show will take place on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday, the main ring will be packed with prize-winning animals from all the livestock sections and that is an event not to be missed.”
WIN TICKETS TO THE B AT H A N D W E S T
WE have five pairs of adult tickets to give away for any one day of this year’s show. To enter, please answer the following question: What is the name of the new competition being sponsored by The Royal Agricultural University? Please send your answers on a postcard to: Royal Bath and West Show Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon BS40 7RG. Entries must reach us by Monday, April 18th. The editor’s decision is final.
Movers and shakers at The Bell
SATURDAY nights are now cocktail nights at The Bell in Shepton Mallet with a different range on offer each week. The £6.50 creations – including many classics – are the perfect accompaniment to the regular karaoke and discos. Along with live music on Fridays, The Bell offers an ideal venue for a night out with friends. Bands booked to play include the Ray Jones Band – making another appearance – and Bristol-based The Tripes, offering their unique take on rock covers as well as some originals. Meanwhile, work to restore the front of the historic coaching inn should be completed by the end of May. Beneath the scaffolding and covers which currently shroud the pub, builders are hard at work on the renovation project. Landlord Micky Taft, who runs the pub with daughters Gemma and Lucy, said: “We’ll be putting up new signage as well, which we believe will return The Bell to its former glory.”
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