Issue 7 - Volume 15 - Mendip Times

Mendip Times

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VOLUME 15 ISSUE 7

FREE

Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

DECEMBER 2019

IN THIS ISSUE: • CHRISTMAS EVENTS • REMEMBRANCE • CARNIVAL TIME • BUSINESS • WILDLIFE • SPORT YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A CHRISTMAS H AMP ER S ee page 126

SEASON’S GREETINGS TO ALL OUR READERS! Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

AS the season of goodwill approaches, we have some heart-warming tales of how communities across our area are coming together to help themselves.

After celebrating its tenth anniversary, the community shop in Mells has received congratulations from a couple of royal visitors. In Draycott people are working together to take over their village store.

Across the area communities are planning special festive celebrations, including Cheddar, Wedmore, Winscombe and Wrington – we have a guide to festive events.

Bishop Sutton community library has celebrated its first birthday and a new community library has just opened in Peasedown St John. And we have a picture special showing the enormous effort that goes into our winter carnivals.

Individuals also have their stories to tell. We meet the calendar girls from Glastonbury who have all been touched by cancer and the Cheddar mum who ran a 10k with her children in memory of her husband. There’s been an early Christmas present for the Sewart family in East Harptree.

It may be getting colder outside but hopefully we can give you a warm glow of festive cheer this Christmas.

Our thanks as ever to our readers, contributors and advertisers. Wishing you a Merry Mendip Christmas!

January 2020 deadline: Friday, 6th December 2019.

Published: Tuesday, 17th December 2019.

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 What’s On listings: Annie Egginton annie@mendiptimes.co.uk Publisher: Mendip Times Limited Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone:

01761 463888

or: email: news@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: 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: Sunshine after the rain at Shepton Mallet Carnival.

Photo by Mark Adler, see page 28.

28

Lighting up the winter – carnival season in pictures

84

In memory of Rod – a family says thank you

122

106

Royal visit – Mells celebrates ten years of community shop

Plays in school – thanks to festival funding Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE ..........10 Internet and Crossword ..............12 Food & Drink ...............................14 Business.........................................32 Arts & Antiques ...........................44 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......65 Walking Sue Gearing ....................66 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........68 Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......70

Charities........................................82 Property ........................................90 Health Dr Phil Hammond .............97 Caving Phil Hendy ......................101 Community .................................102 Homes and Interiors ..................110 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE...114 Sport ............................................118 Music & Theatre ........................122 What’s On...................................124 MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 3

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Lasting legacy of a Frome legend

CELEBRATIONS to mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of a pioneering Frome entrepreneur will leave a lasting legacy, say organisers.

John Webb Singer’s foundry created some of the most iconic bronze sculptures ever seen in Britain, including London’s Boudica at Westminster Bridge and Justice at the Old Bailey.

A Singer Trail has been created in the town, including new information boards and a plaque has been unveiled on the site of the main Singer building on Waterloo which housed draughtsmen and the design offices. Further down Waterloo there were extensive metal works where the bronze sculptures were cast.

And after the success of a Singer-related entry – Boudica – in this year’s Frome

The plaque is the latest in a number around Frome to be commissioned by the Frome Society for Local Study

FSLS members and guests including the mayor and deputy mayor of Frome were joined by two direct descendants of JW Singer at the unveiling of the plaque on Waterloo

Carnival, Johnson Controls, the company which now carries on some of the work developed by Singer, has said it wants to continue to support the event.

The anniversary has been celebrated in Frome by a major exhibition “Casting the World” in Rook Lane Chapel – curated by Sue Bucklow – and by exhibitions in Frome Museum and other locations. There is also a book.

And a member of the Frome Society for Local Study, which commissioned the plaque, has created a Wikipedia site about Singer.

The celebrations will come to a close on Friday, November 29th during the Frome Extravaganza when the prize-winning Boudica float will be on display again along with other lanterns in the shape of some of Singer's angel memorial statues.

Stephen and Jeremy Yates, great-grandsons of Singer

For details about John Webb Singer, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Webb_Singer

Somer Valley foodbank desperately needs new home

THE Somer Valley Foodbank, which has distributed over 7,000 food parcels to people in need over the last six years, is desperately looking for a new home.

Due to a huge increase in monthly rental costs at the organisation’s current warehouse, the charity won’t be able to afford to stay there past Christmas.

Somer Valley Foodbank chairman, Paul Woodward, said: “As well as the four distribution centres in Paulton, Midsomer Norton, Radstock and Peasedown that we use for free, we’ve also been hiring a warehouse in the Somer Valley for the past six years to store the six tonnes of

non-perishable food that are donated from members of the public.

“With a huge rent increase now due, we can’t continue at our current location and the foodbank now faces an uncertain future.”

Foodbanks provide three days of emergency food to people who need it the most. Professionals such as health visitors, social workers and Citizens Advice identify people in crisis and issue them with a voucher.

The voucher can be taken to a foodbank distribution centre where a friendly team of volunteers will offer a

cup of tea and help people with their food needs and give advice.

With more than 70 volunteers collecting and transporting food, helping in distribution centres, and providing support to those who visit, the Somer Valley Foodbank is one of the biggest volunteer-led projects in Bath and North East Somerset.

Paul said: “We’re looking for an empty building, warehouse or an accessible storage unit which is at least 1,000 sq ft and can be accessed regularly by our volunteers. If there is anyone out there who can help, please get in touch!”

Details: info@somervalley.foodbank.org.uk or call 07729 523986

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 5

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MENDIP TIMES

History delays new school – the kids are delighted

A SIGNIFICANT archaeological discovery on the site of a new primary school in Somerton means completion will be delayed by several months.

The new, 420-pupil, 14-class primary school will replace the King Ina sites at etsome Terrace and School Lane. The aim had been to start the September 2020 term in the new school, but the discovery means the project won’t be completed until early 2021 – depending on how long the archaeologists need to do their work.

Children in Somerton were given a sneak peek at an ancient settlement unearthed on the site of the town’s new school. Four classes from King Ina Academy Junior School were shown around the site by archaeologists excavating ahead of construction on council-owned land off Northfields.

Initial works have uncovered evidence of an Iron Age settlement, with signs of roundhouse buildings and some artefacts including pottery. As required by law, on behalf of the South West heritage Trust the site is now being examined and excavated in detail. experts from Wessex Archaeology will record the site and conserve any artefacts, allowing construction work to start again as soon as possible.

Experts from Wessex Archaeology explain some of the finds

Winning picture

The Somerset branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural england ran a photography competition with a difference this summer.

They realised they had lots of photos in their archive of Somerset’s varied and beautiful landscapes but they were nearly all “empty”, with no people in them!

They really wanted some more images to show what the Somerset countryside means to those lucky enough to live here or enjoy visiting.

So they decided to launch a photography competition for amateur photographers on the theme of enjoying the Somerset Countryside.

Becky Collier, CPRe branch manager

PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Hands-on history as pupils discover more about the history of the site

Councillor Faye Purbrick, cabinet member for education and transformation, said: “We’ve got a great track record of delivering new schools, so any delay is a shame. But clearly, this is a special case, with some really interesting historical finds and it’s very important that this piece of Somerset’s past is recorded and preserved.

“The timescales are out of our hands, while the archaeological work continues, but I am pleased that the students who will inhabit the new school have been able to engage with the archaeologists and witness first-hand the exciting finds on the site. hopefully it has fired some young imaginations and, who knows, it might inspire some future careers or hobbies.

“The new school is great news for Somerton and the surrounding communities and we will do everything we can to move the project forward quickly once the archaeological work is done.

“In the meantime, I’m grateful to the school for their support to mitigate the possible effects of this delay to the building programme. I await the final report of the archaeologists with interest and look forward to seeing some of these fascinating artefacts in the county’s museum for everyone to share.” hedda Walker, deputy head at King Ina Academy said: “The visits were excellent – really interesting and enjoyed by both the pupils and the staff. We were really grateful for the opportunity to visit the site at this early stage.”

said: “We had images of children kite flying on Wearyall hill, blackberry picking, families walking in the woods, people walking the dog, watching the sunset – even someone playing the cello at Deer Leap on the Mendip hills!

“The entries gave us a really lovely insight into how special our countryside

is and the different ways people connect with it.”

The outright winner was an image called Glastonbury Tor Silhouettes by Jonathan Bull, from Wedmore, who said: “I love taking photos when I am out and about and I am happy to share one of my favourite shots of the Tor.”

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ENVIRONMENT

Rewilding plans for 60 hectares of North Somerset NeW habitats for wildlife to help mitigate the effects of climate change are to be created across North Somerset in a £50,000 rewilding scheme.

North Somerset Council declared a climate emergency earlier this year and in July councillors agreed unanimously to put in place a rewilding programme across the district. Since then officers have been identifying areas of council-owned land as potential sites for rewilding by planting trees or allowing the grass to grow taller.

The council owns around 2.5 million square metres of verges, parks and open spaces where the grass is mown regularly.

Under its rewilding programme it is looking to increase wildlife and biodiversity by converting around 16 percent of this “amenity grass” to tall grass areas and a further ten percent to woodland.

This will result in around 40 new hectares of tall grass and 20 new hectares of woodland across the district enabling wildlife to flourish.

Creating the woodland areas will involve planting around 50,000 young trees called “whips” which will be protected by biodegradable tubes. These will be planted in phases over the

The Great Dundry clean-up

The Dundry Litter Busters held their final litter picking event of 2019 on October 27th. A band of 20 volunteers from Dundry and east Dundry swept through the roadside verges and hedges in and around the parish.

Some 15 bags of rubbish were collected, along with sundry items such as an old bed. Organisers say it was encouraging that the quantity was noticeably lower than when they started back in April this year, thanks not only to those stalwarts who take part in the scheduled litter picking events, but also to those who regularly take the time to pick up litter throughout the year.

Fortune smiled on one group, who found part of a torn-up £20 note, and then a few minutes later found the remaining part (see photo). Fortune of a different kind fell on another group, who found two large bags of dog mess.

More clean-up days are planned next year.

Ten-year-old Gertie Blewitt and her grandma Jean hold the parts of the £20 note found in a Dundry hedge

Details: dundrylitterbusters@gmail.com

next three years with the initial 5,000 being planted early in the new year. The tall grass sites will also be introduced over the next three years, starting next summer.

The estimated cost of obtaining and planting the new trees is £50,000 which will be funded from various sources including the Woodland Trust, Forestry Commission and Natural england.

Town and parish councils, residents and community groups will be consulted on the potential sites that have been identified by the council. This consultation will run until the end of January.

Councillor Caritas Charles, executive member responsible for green spaces and community engagement, said: “We will be seeking people’s views on the suitability of the areas we have identified for rewilding and also asking for suggestions of other potential sites.

“Once the sites have been finalised the specification for the new grounds and tree maintenance contract will be prepared to reflect the council’s ambitions with maintenance programmes changed to favour wildlife and biodiversity.” l The council says it will be looking for volunteers to help plant and look after the new trees.

Environmental campaigner coming to Frome

ROB hopkins, the founder of the international Transition Towns movement, will be visiting Frome in December for an event co-hosted by Sustainable Frome and Frome Town Council.

Rob began the movement in his hometown of Totnes where the community is becoming its own Man on a mission – Rob Hopkins housing developer, energy company, enterprise incubator, and local food network—with cascading benefits to the community that extend far beyond the projects themselves. he will be talking on Thursday, December 5th at the Cheese and Grain about his new book “From What Is to What If: Unleashing the Power of Imagination to Create the Future We Want” which explores actions communities are taking to enable a better future.

Rob said: “In these times of deep division and deeper despair there is often a feeling that the future is going to be awful. however, there is plenty of evidence that things can change, and cultures can change, rapidly, dramatically, and unexpectedly—for the better.”

Entry is £5 to cover costs, £1 for people on low income.

To buy a ticket visit: https://www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/climateemergency/

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 7

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MENDIP TIMES

ENVIRONMENT

Award marks start of next phase of heritage project

A PROJeCT that began with researching the historical heritage of part of Shepton Mallet has broadened out into the ecology and natural history of the area.

The Darshill and Bowlish Conservation Society has been awarded a £500 Wessex Watermark to help with a biodiversity plan which will focus on spiders and insects.

Beginning with the medieval period the society has recorded the working history of the hamlets of Darshill, ham and Bowlish.

Until the early 20th century the area employed thousands of local people in the cloth industry and farming and it is their story that the society has re-discovered for present and future generations.

Brian Allen, a society member, said: “We aim to interest and inspire the public and local residents in our fascinating Somerset locality and we have over 70 people of all ages involved in the heritage project.

“The more we researched the area’s working history the more we realised the relationship between its history and the surrounding environment. That is when we decided to include a biodiversity plan in our heritage project. having researched the past we now want to plan for the future wellbeing of our environment.

“The society owns land which was in a very overgrown state, and since restoring the waterways and islands created on the disused mill pond, wildlife is returning. We are also studying the ecology of residents’ gardens to enable a wider picture to be

New kit for AONB young rangers

Emily Larque (second from right) presents the award to society officials Brian Allen, Jane Williams and Eddy Oram at Bowlish House Hotel

obtained for biodiversity in our locality.

“Our Watermark Award will enable us to get professional advice for the entomology and arachnids sections of our biodiversity plan. The more insects we can encourage with land management and planting for biodiversity, the more birds and bats will come and find their homes here.” emily Larque, from Wessex Water, said: “What started with heritage has broadened out into the ecology and natural history of Darshill and Bowlish in this fascinating community-based project which Wessex Water is delighted to support.”

The Wessex Watermark Awards are organised by The Conservation Foundation who judge all the projects.

The 2019 intake of Mendip hills AONB young rangers have a new uniform thanks to a donation from The Mendip Society. They put their new waterproofs and thermal layers to the test during their outdoor first aid course.

The society, a membership organisation who care for the hills, donated ￡500 to help with the costs of new kit for all 15 young rangers.

Volunteers wanted at Glastonbury Tor The National Trust have owned Glastonbury Tor since 1933. The aim of the organisation has always been to promote nature, beauty and history. Glastonbury Tor is a wonderful place as it ties in so tightly to the local community.

They care a great deal about their monument for its significance in spirituality, folklore and as an internationally recognised beacon of the town. To manage the Tor in line with these ideas, a group of volunteers drawn from the community help manage the Tor in the most environmentally friendly way possible. The more hands NT have to help, they say the more they can avoid the use of pesticides to control undesirable plants.

They are now expanding this group, looking for volunteers to help throughout the year, whether it be with pruning orchards, knocking back bramble, picking apples or monitoring wildlife.

They say any way you can help them look after this local icon of a site would be fantastic. Your contribution would help them keep the site tidier, better for wildlife and in a healthier condition.

During 2018 volunteers, with assistance from a communityfunded coordinator from the town, helped to keep the thistles down without the use of pesticides. This allowed the sheep to graze and slow the regrowth of the plants.

By joining their volunteer group, you can help the grasslands of the Tor thrive, allowing a greater variety of flowers to grow, in turn helping insects thrive in the local area. You can help the Tor become a shrine for wildlife, a place to relax amid the seasonal rhythm of nature.

So why not get in touch and see how you can help out?

Details: Call 01934 845104 or email glastonburytor@nationaltrust.org.uk

PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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Traditionally November is a quiet month. The nights are drawing in. Apart from Guy Fawkes and the excellent local carnival processions it’s a time to sit by the fire and follow Strictly, The Apprentice or whatever else takes your fancy.

This year we are in the middle of a general election campaign. The first December general election for over 100 years, although not many are celebrating that fact. Most people just want some closure on the whole Brexit saga. Both main parties say they can quickly bring it to a conclusion, but nobody really believes that.

Despite all that, our perspective is that people have now got used to living with the uncertainty and life seems to be going on much as normal. We are busier in almost all departments than we would normally expect to be at this time of year and our contacts in related professions are saying the same.

The end of the year is a good time to catch up on things that we have been putting off such as Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and suchlike.

These are relatively inexpensive so shouldn’t put too much of a dent in the Christmas shopping budget! If you’d like to discuss these or indeed anything else please contact any of our branches.

More from us next month by which time the Christmas preparations should be in full swing.

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Cheddar: Bath Street Chambers, Bath Street, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3AA. Tel: 01934 745400

Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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MENDIP TIMES

A very fond farewell

Tom and Mary James

Finally – and it really is the final article from me – as i have decided to retire. nick Green, farm operations director for alvis Bros at Redhill, a man with a wealth of experience who comes highly recommended, will take over in January.

With MARY i have thoroughly enjoyed writing these JAMES MBE articles and i hope they covered a wide enough area to give you, our readers, an idea of the fantastic events and businesses involving farmers in our Mendip area. it has indeed been a privilege to write about people like yeo Valley, Thatchers and alvis Bros, as all of us were in various young Farmers Clubs in the area. Just shows what you can learn in the yFC! The article that got most comments was the one about fly tipping. Many communities have joined together to litterpick. it is then even more galling to see more litter appear! it is back to flooding again as i write and it does not look as if anyone listened when the flooding was tackled on the Somerset levels a few years ago. it is the same problem; funding was not available to keep the rivers and streams free from debris and silt. it affects an even bigger area this time. i note a comment from the nFU president Minette Batters: “We launched our flooding manifesto in 2012 and absolutely nothing has been done. We manage water in the most disgraceful way at the moment.”

The nFU is calling on the next government to develop long-term strategic plans to mitigate future flood risk and better manage water, as well as properly rewarding farmers for providing flood management services.

This scenario was in place 30 years ago but disappeared when the funding cuts began to bite. let us hope the powers that be will listen this time. i have tried over the years to put forward the farmers’ point of view and to explain how we do things and why. We take great exception to being blamed for a lot of issues that do not actually happen. Do we, as an industry, not promote ourselves enough and if we do is anyone listening?

Take earth – the starting point. a farmer’s raw material to be used with care; with variety of soil, climate, geography, crops, stock and weather. Farmers have always had to deal

with the vagaries of the weather.

Take climate change for instance, UK farmers are responding and committing to being carbon neutral by 2040.

However farmers feel increasingly beleaguered by some who aggressively suggest a vegan diet is the only way forward, but remember that in the UK transport and domestic energy use produces more carbon than agriculture.

Everyone has to eat, needing variety, availability and a fair price. The pressure is on farmers to do this as cheaply as possible, but think of pressure on the soil and pressure on the bio-diversity. Then remember how much food we waste and how many people are starving in the world today. at the end of this final article from me i would like to thank editors Steve Egginton, Mark adler and their staff for all their hard work putting this great magazine together.

Great photos too. i leave you with the thought that farmers need consumers more than ever. and the consumers need farmers.

Please BUy BRiTiSH FOOD and BUy lOCal with thanks to those who do. a Very Merry Christmas to you all.

Our thanks to Mary for the support she has given us and the local farming community over many years.

St Katherines Farmhouse Downside Road, Lulsgate Bristol BS48 3DZ

Contact: 01275 472471 www.jwandtjpearce.co.uk

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PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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FARMING

Trail wins national award

a HaRVEST celebration organised by the Mells Group of Churches and Somerset yFC has won a national award.

The Great Harvest Trail was named Best Community Celebration in the national British Food Fortnight competition. The competition, run in association with the Coop, was judged this year by love British Food ambassadors Raymond Blanc, liz Earle, Candice Brown and Breige Donaghy, Cathryn Higgs from the Co-op and alexia Robinson CEO love British Food.

The Great Harvest Trail – complete with Olympic-style torch – toured 15 different locations in Somerset celebrating British food with a finale at Wells Cathedral. The trail ran in conjunction with the Mells Group of churches Five Villages Flower Festival celebrating rural life with food, crafts, activities, harvest festivals and flowers in the benefice’s five village churches. alexia Robinson said: “all the judges think that what you achieved is wonderful and embodies everything that we hope to inspire in community celebrations across the country. i know that you worked unbelievably hard on this project and i am truly overjoyed that you have won.”

The Rev Clive Fairclough, Rector of the Mells Group of parishes, said: “The Great Harvest Trail combined with our Five Villages Flower Festival was an opportunity to enjoy all that comes to fruition at harvest time. it recognised the huge gifts and talents we have to share in our village communities.

“We are so grateful to our sponsors, Cooper and Tanner,

01749 850258

Fr Clive Fairclough with the harvest torch

Frome livestock auctioneers ,yeo Valley Family Farm, Wyke Farms, the Co-op Radstock and Common Farm Flowers for their generous support.”

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MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 11

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INTERNET

Printing from the internet with a Mac

IF you have a Mac and love it the same as I do, but have the same problems as me, and find it really quite annoying, then this might help! If I tried to Print directly from an Internet page, it prints a very, very small thumbnail in the top of the page.

The usual, obvious procedure is to click on Print, then it usually opens another tab, so you click on the Print icon, usually top right of the page you are on, (but sometimes only appears when you move your mouse over it). So you would be tempted to think that clicking Print would print the page the way it’s showing you it will print.

Then if you click on that Print button, it opens a dialogue box like this, so it’s tempting that you just click on the Print button, but in my case that would give you a tiny bit of printing.

So I click on the More Settings arrow, which gives me some more settings (not surprisingly!) Scroll down, to find Print using system dialogue box (keyboard shortcuts is Ctrl or cmd and P). Click on that, and you get a perhaps more familiar dialogue box. You can change options, such as whether to print double sided, or just print the first page etc, then click Print and you should get the sort of printout that you were expecting.

In the first black box example above; the spiral dotted arrow lets you rotate it, and the arrow with a line underneath, is the Download button, so you can save it to your computer and decide how to print it if you like, but if you just want a quick print and don’t want it saved on your computer, that’s a bit of a “sledgehammer to crack a nut” scenario.

On behalf of all at IT4TT we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Peaceful New Year.

Note: The item in the last article about dots in emails related to gmail, not other providers. My apologies for any confusion.

Submitted by IT for the Terrified: Cheddar Village Hall, Church St, Cheddar BS27 3RF 01934 741751 (usually goes to answer phone) www.itfortheterrified.co.uk • itfortheterrified@btconnect.com

PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 7 Between Sandford and Locking this village has a castle that was headquarters to RAF squadron 955 in the last war (7) 9 Seaside town in Thanet, Kent. Popular with Londoners (7) 10 Gemini (5) 11 Grand pianos (9) 12 Attributes or traits (15) 13 Fast daily newspaper (7) 16 Innuits (7) 19 Village four miles south of Bristol on ‘Monarch's Way’ (6,9) 23 Convey or enthral (9) 24 Fine porcelain by Josiah (5) 25 Small suitcases (7) 26 Close to Binegar this brewery, named after the village, used to produce ‘Invalid Stout’ (7)

DOWN 1 Something to overcome (8) 2 Bring round to your way of thinking (8) 3 American wardrobe (6) 4 Two of these don't make a right (6) 5 Devil worship (8) 6 Taste is one of these (6) 8 Capital of Nigeria (5) 9 “You’ve got to be joking” tennis player (7) 14 Dover maybe, competent and can be carried (8) 15 Plenty of these seen in the ‘periodic table’ (7) 17 Memento (8) 18 Straight away, all at once (8) 19 Indigenous animal or plant (6) 20 Prey on one's mind (6) 21 Village Near East Harptree, the seat of William Rees-Mogg editor of The Times (1967-81) and father of Jacob (6) 22 Sauce made mainly of garlic and olive oil (5) Clues in italics are cryptic by greendandelion

This month’s solution can be found on page 129

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MENDIP TIMES

Can I have some more, please?

I have nothing against Christmas Pudding, but every year I hear some people say they are not keen on it. And it is a bit odd that once a year, and only once, we head back into the Dickensian past and finish With JUNE MACFARLANE our special meal with something that resembles a cannonball. Alternatives are available and these are some of them!

PAVLOVA WREATH INGREDIENTS

(for six) 150ml egg whites 300g caster sugar 2 tsp cornflour 1 tsp lemon juice 300ml cream, whipped Seasonal fruit or berries Fresh mint leaves

Ta da! It’s a pavlova! But this is a seasonal pavlova in the shape of a wreath so not quite so much whipped cream.

Make the meringue the night before.

METHOD In an electric beater whisk the egg whites on medium until soft peak stage. Add the sugar very slowly, mixing well between additions.

Increase the speed a little and whisk until the mixture is stiff and shiny. On low speed mix in the cornflour and lemon juice. Put a few dabs of meringue on the tray and lay the baking paper on top. Spoon blobs of meringue inside the circle to form a wreath. Level the top. Put into the oven and reduce the temperature to 100°C. Bake for 90mins. Turn off oven and allow to cool completely overnight. Spread cream on top just before serving, decorate with fruit and mint and serve extra fruit alongside.

A sabayon requires some last-minute attention

SABAYON AND BERRIES

You have to do a bit of whisking at the last minute to make this frothy concoction, but you might enjoy the exercise after the turkey! Serve it over fresh fruit – I like berries.

INGREDIENTS

(Serves 4-6) 65g sugar 160ml medium cider or white wine 6 large egg yolks

METHOD You need a large heatproof bowl. Whisk together the sugar and cider, then whisk in the egg yolks. Fit the bowl over a pan of simmering water and whisk the mixture until it thickens and becomes frothy. Pour the mixture over the berries and serve immediately.

CHOCOLATE CHESTNUT TERRINE INGREDIENTS

(for about ten slices) 500g sweetened chestnut puree 175g soft unsalted butter 300g good dark chocolate 3tbsp brandy/espresso coffee

Alternatives to Christmas Pudding have to include a chocolate one! Rich, luxurious and indulgent, this can be made a few days in advance. Serve straight from the fridge.

METHOD Line a loaf tin 23cm x 10cm with two layers of cling film. Beat the chestnut puree in a bowl until smooth, then add the soft butter and beat to blend. Melt the chocolate over hot water, allow to cool a little then add to mixture with brandy/espresso. Spoon into loaf tin, right into the corners. Fold cling film over the top. Refrigerate until needed. Use a hot dry knife to slice. Serve with crème fraiche or softly whipped cream.

Indulgence straight from the fridge

A seasonal take on a pavlova

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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Pop into our cider shop for your party supplies

OUR Cider Shop at Myrtle Farm is full of delicious treats for your Christmas and New Year Celebrations. Try our beautiful pink gin, Orchard Blush, or our sparkling apple wine, Family Reserve, for your celebration! During December our Cider Shop has some special offers, including a £5 voucher for every £50 spent, and 12 bottles of Katy and Vintage for £17.00.

We’ll be open every day apart from Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. See our website for opening hours.

FOOD & DRINK

Supporting the Freewheelers EVS

THE Freewheelers Emergency Voluntary Service is a registered charity that provides a free out-of-hours motorcycle courier service to hospitals in the South West of England.

The volunteers ride to play their part in saving people’s lives, in so doing saving the NHS money that would otherwise have been spent on taxis or expensive couriers. We’re delighted that The Freewheelers received a donation from the Thatchers Foundation – if you’d like to know more about the amazing work they do, visit www.freewheelers.org.uk The Thatchers Foundation has been able to support some more really worthwhile causes and organisations over recent months, including Help The Child in Burnham-on-Sea, Weston Hospicecare, The Kids Cancer Trust, and Winscombe Primary School.

An excellent year’s harvest

WE’VE come to the end of harvest for another year! The quality of our fruit has been excellent with the apples benefitting from the early warm weather, and then the rain keeping the trees well hydrated – healthy trees equals healthy fruit equals great cider.

A massive thank you to all our farmers and growers who have been battling the recent wet and stormy weather to bring in the fruit from their exceptionally muddy orchards.

Kickstart your careers in sales

DO you know anyone who’s looking for a career in sales? We’re recruiting and are looking for talented people to join our training and development programme, leading to an industry leading qualification in sales. We’re looking for people who want to be part of the Thatchers Cider family, people who can get stuck in and make a difference. If you, or anyone you know is interested, please give us a call or find out more at https://www.thatcherscider.co.uk/field-sales-job-description/

Cheers from us all at Myrtle Farm

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

ENDIP TIMES IMES • N DOVEMBER ECEMBER 2017 2019 • PAGE 15 MENDIP

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MENDIP TIMES

Apple Day event has community at its core CIDER, juice, fritters and more were on the menu at The Market House in Castle Cary for a community Apple Day celebration.

John pressing apple juice as wife Amelia looks on. The couple also make their own cider

Nickie prepares to tuck into apple fritters and ice cream prepared by Lucie and Lucas, Iona and Rob. Lucie and Lucas run Lucas Hollweg Foods and Rob runs Brickells ice cream

Miss Pink, in a suitably-decorated hat, chatting outside the Market House

The Market House was full of activities and stalls

Colin (left) and Martin – folk music band Left, Right and Centre – were amongst the live acts entertaining visitors

Food stalls outside the Market House which also hosts as weekly Tuesday market

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GARDEN FOOD

Sublime squashes

WE'VE had a terrific harvest of squashes this year and one of our favourites is this Crown Prince squash, which is wonderfully sweet and silky, with a non-gritty skin which can be cooked along with the squash, saving a considerable amount of onerous peeling.

With JAKE Squashes and pumpkins are incredibly WHITSON hungry plants and our best successes have always been when we've planted them with very generous amounts of rich compost and rotted manure. The plants don't like to get cold, so it is best to sow them in April with a little heat and plant out around May, when the third true leaf has started to open.

We love to roast lengths of this squash, sometimes mixed with potato cut the same size, as “chips” – tossed in oil and roast in a very hot oven for half an hour, they very much resemble the sweet potato fries that have become popular recently.

We also like to roast chunks of it in olive oil alongside wedges of beetroot, garlic and rosemary and serve the warm roasted vegetables dressed with balsamic vinegar and wholegrain mustard. This squash also works extremely well in sweet dishes, and we recently adapted a River Cottage recipe for pumpkin cake, to great effect.

Our version starts with 150g butter, which you beat to a cream with 150g caster sugar, before beating in three eggs, one at a time. We then fold in 340g self-raising flour, 100g wholemeal flour, a generous grating of nutmeg, 50ml milk and 300g grated raw squash (or pumpkin), to give a soft dropping consistency.

Baked in a 20cm cake tin in an oven preheated to 180ºC, it makes a delicious crispy cake hot or cold, wonderful with a glass of milk. On which note I'd like to thank all my readers for their support over the past year – your letters and comments are always a pleasure to receive – and wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Jacob Whitson is a chef, food writer and smallholder.

He is currently working on setting up a small sustainable goose farm in Somerset with his partner Johanna.

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

A Christmas ketchup

THIS autumn has been fabulous for wild food of all kinds from the nut and fruit harvest to prodigious amounts of fungi. On a recent mushroom foray, we found six edible species of mushrooms in one hour!

However, it’s not all about the mushrooms so I want to talk about the super abundance With ADRIAN of deep red hawthorn berries. In folklore, BOOTS hawthorn berries were said to foretell a bad winter after a heavy crop (which we’ve had – you heard it here first!).

They have some great local names too, known in Somerset as “bird’s meat”, “hags”, “pig-haw”, the whimsical “pixie pears” which sounds wonderful compared to the rather dull and unfortunate sounding “haws”.

So now you’ve picked a basket load of haw berries, what are you going to do with them? For this Christmas, how about a spicy and aromatic haw berry ketchup (or should we call it Pixie Pears Ketchup?) for all your roasted meats and cold cut leftovers?

Here’s the recipe: 250g hawthorn berries, 250g crab apples (or normal ones), 150g light brown sugar, 300ml water, 300ml cider vinegar, two tsp ground ginger, three cloves, pinch of salt and pepper.

Destalk the berries and give all the fruit a wash. I don’t bother to peel and core the crab apples (but you can if you wish) as the pectin helps to ensure the sauce isn’t too thin. Place the berries, diced crab apples, water and cider vinegar and spices in a pan, bring to the boil then simmer for 30mins or until the berries and apples are soft.

Force through a fine sieve, add sugar and seasoning, stirring in until dissolved. Bring back to the boil and simmer for five minutes, then using a funnel, pour the ketchup into sterilised bottles (image courtesy of Vale House Kitchen).

The cooking aromas of this ketchup are quite simply stunning, it truly is the smell of Christmas! But watch out, it’s probably best not to breathe in too deeply as the fumes from the cider vinegar will catch your throat.

Please do not confuse hawthorn berries with woody nightshade (also bright red berries) which unhelpfully grow in hawthorn hedges at this time of year – that would really ruin your festivities. Finally, I’ve decided we should definitely call it “Pixie Pears’ Ketchup”. It just sounds better.

All that’s left for me to do is wish you all a Merry Christmas and a fruitful New Year!

Want to learn more about wild food and the countryside? Why not join me on a Wonderful Wild Food Foray this spring, gift vouchers available.

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.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 17

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MENDIP TIMES

Gina and Mike wish you a warm welcome – now serving hot dishes alongside our light lunches

e White Hart Old Coach Road Cross BS26 2EE 01934 733108

Homemade Soups, Chilli, Casserole and Cauliflower Cheese – from £4.95 to £7.95 Served weekday lunchtimes 12-2.30pm • Weekends 12-3pm Opening hours: Closed Mondays • Tuesday 6-11pm Wednesday, ursday, Friday 12-2.30pm and 6-11pm Saturday 12-11pm, Sunday 12-7pm

ewhitehart2019@gmail.com

New faces at New Manor

MATT Vanstone and his assistant Midge Tonks are the new faces behind the butchery counter at New Manor Farm Shop in North Widcombe.

Matt has been a butcher for 14 years, working previously at Darts Farm in Devon, Ruby and White in Clifton and Darrell’s in Weston-super-Mare, which has closed after 25 years.

He and Midge are now making their own sausages and burgers, with new products like lamb noisettes – watch out for new sausage flavours and home-made pork pies in the New Year.

The beef, pork and lamb all come from Colston Gay’s New Manor Farm next door.

Why not pay them a visit to see their new-style butchery?

Country shopping at its best

New Manor Farm Shop

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH US!

Centred around a traditional farm courtyard near Chew Valley Lake – the very best in local produce and gift ideas MEAT SUPPLIED FROM OUR OWN FARM

TEA ROOMS

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS LUNCH – AVAILABLE FROM DECEMBER 1ST Hot & cold meals • Delicious cream teas • Full English breakfasts • Come and enjoy our lovely Sunday roast lunches

CHRISTMAS TREES, HOLLY WREATHS & HIYACINTHS Feast with us this Christmas

FABULOUS CHOICE OF CHRISTMAS GIFTS Cakes, Mince Pies, Christmas Puddings and more

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 - 4.30pm Wheelchair access, children welcome, free parking, coaches by appointment

Farm Shop: 01761 220067 • Tea Rooms: 01761 220172

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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A L D W I C K V I N E YA R D

FOOD & DRINK

Royal recompense

THE Regent grape was named after Le Régent, the 140.5 carat diamond purchased in 1717 by Philippe II, Duke of Orleans and Regent for Louis V. It had been known previously as “Pitt’s Diamond” after the vendor Sir Thomas Pitt, who acquired it during his Madras With Presidency. In common with most ELIZABETH famous diamonds, it’s said to carry a LAVER curse.

Eighteen dedicated volunteers enabled Aldwick’s Home Team to gather in our Regent crop with record efficiency on October 8th. Almost two tonnes were secured under cover within three hours, well before forecast rain arrived at 12.30. More blessing than curse!

Picking Regent is unanimously deemed pleasurable – never “the pits”. A modern, interspecific hybrid bred to resist fungal disease, this gem of a grape variety yields generous, open clusters of glistening black berries that rarely demand field-sorting.

The 2018 Regent, a limited vintage of 1400 bottles, continues to age prior to release on allocation in 2020. But come taste how Regent complements Pinot Noir in our 2018 Flying Pig red-blend at Bath Christmas Market, Chalet 15, Abbeygate Street, November 28th–December 15th.

* one free cup of coffee in shop on production of this voucher. Valid from 1/12/19 to 31/12/19

Elizabeth Laver is Vineyard Manager

For wine & vineyard tours visit www.aldwickestate.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 19

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MENDIP TIMES

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Sweet Cumin keeps growing and growing

FOOD & DRINK

Christmas Gift Vouchers Half-day courses £85pp and Full day course £165pp

FROM a starting budget of £200, Bini Ludlow’s career has gone from strength to strength. Bini’s passion for cooking has taken her to many different places and won her a raft of awards for Sweet Cumin Indian Cookery school and her authentic Indian Ready Meal range.

Awarded highly commended for Businesswomen of the Year in the British Indian awards 2019, Bini also cooked her delicious curries for the six ICC World Cup cricket internationals at the Somerset County ground.

Success has continued with a GOLD award for her Jammu Chicken Curry at the Taste of the West awards and the cookery school has been shortlisted in this year’s Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards for Learning Experience of the Year.

Bini says it was the first time she has entered. She hadn’t realised how attracting cooks from all over the world to her courses had had an unexpected knock-on benefit to local businesses and attractions in the region.

Bini shares her passion for Indian cookery with everyone, from ages 5 – 89, who attend her hands-on classes, in groups of four people making them personal and using the highest quality locally sourced ingredients.

The aim is to pass on an understanding of how to use spices with confidence, produce delicious authentic curries and prepare and cook the perfect rice and many other dishes. You are never too young or too old to learn something new.

If you are looking for an unusual gift idea for that special person who has everything, you can buy Christmas gift vouchers for Bini’s cookery classes. Valid for 12 months recipients can book a course in 2020 and look forward to learning a new skill.

Alternatively, if you are looking for inspiration to entertain guests over the festive period, you can buy Bini curries which are all gluten free, contain free range chicken and there are six vegetarian dishes five of which are vegan.

Let Bini do the cooking and you can enjoy time with your friends and family.

Visit www.binifinefoods.com for the range and stockists and pop them into your freezer ready to heat for the big event

❖ Discover the secrets of blending with spices with confidence ❖ Friendly hands on cookery classes ❖ Courses to suit all ages and abilities ❖ Enjoy learning in a small class size ❖ Take home the food you cook with a goody bag of recipes and spices Many thanks Bini! I so enjoyed the course and so enjoyed meeting you! What you offer and how you deliver your courses is truly fantastic. You are doing something very special with a bucket load of passion and enthusiasm' Ross (Bath).

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 21

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MENDIP TIMES

Walkers celebrate some joined-up thinking A KEEN walker who mapped out her own route from Frome to Bath has seen it become part of a much longer trail and it has its own name!

Miriam Hare joined fellow ramblers for the first official walk along the Saxon Kings Way at the start of the second annual Frome Walking Festival. Miriam approached Mendip Ramblers Association for advice on how to promote the route.

An official plaque was installed on the front wall of the Cheese and Grain in time for the start of the festival. The community building is the official start/end of The Mendip Way, also commemorated on the wall.

The Saxon Kings Way allows walkers to reach The Cotswold Way. It links two Anglo-Saxon kings: King Eadred, King of England (AD 946-955), who died in Frome in 955 AD and his nephew King Edgar, King of England (AD 959975), crowned in Bath Abbey in 973 AD. The walk uses existing public footpaths and passes through Lullington, Laverton, Norton St Philip, Hinton Charterhouse, Midford and the first tunnel, Alexander Park and onto Bath Abbey.

It was one of 20 walks over two days ranging from long distance circular walks around Longleat and the Orchardleigh Estate to town-based child-friendly historical strolls.

Adults and children prepare to set off on a children’s walk, exploring the town’s connection with Harry Potter, flying saucer sightings and relive stinky market days and medieval streets

NEWS

Les Steather from Mendip Ramblers Association (front left) who worked with Miriam (pictured next to him) on the Saxon Kings Walk and other ramblers with the commemorative plaques behind them

Guide and author David Lassman leads the children’s walk over Jenson Button Bridge

Details of the walks are available to download from the Walkers Welcome section on www.discoverfrome.co.uk and organisers are working on a mobile phone app also.

Lighthouse is a “triumph”

BURNHAM-on-Sea’s famous low lighthouse is set to become even more well-known after motorcycle manufacturers, Triumph, chose the iconic structure as a backdrop for a new advertising campaign.

Sedgemoor District Council owns, operates and maintains the Lower Light.

Tim Mander, property management and income generation team leader at Sedgemoor said: “We were pleased to be able to help Triumph and delighted that a location credit for Burnham-on-Sea will be used as part of a world-wide campaign for PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Triumph motorcycles on their global website.”

The low wooden pile lighthouse is 36 feet high – the light is at 23 feet – and was built by Joseph Nelson in 1832, in conjunction with the High Lighthouse to replace the original Round Tower Lighthouse, which itself had been built to replace the light kept burning in the tower of St Andrews Church to guide fishing boats into the harbour. It is a Grade II Heritage listed structure.

The lights were inactive between 1969 and 1993 and were re-established when the High Lighthouse lights were permanently

Classic history – on two wheels and nine legs

discontinued. The lighthouse was repainted in 2016 at a cost of around £20,000.

Miles Perkins, head of brand from Triumph, said: “We have just launched the iconic Bud Ekins Bonneville T120 and T100 Special Editions for 2020. We were

Page 23 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 08:14 Page 1

Tel: 0800 097 8611

www.johnhodge.co.uk | e-mail: mailbox@johnhodge.co.uk

WESTON-SUPER-MARE | BRISTOL | CLEVEDON | YATTON | WEDMORE

Wishing all our customers past, present & future a wonderful Christmas

TOPSOIL AND STONE SUPPLIES Dry high quality screened or unscreened Topsoil. Recycled aggregates and quarry stone supplies, road planings and building stone.

DEMOLITION AND STRIP OUT All types of demolition works. From small household to main contractor projects, including rail, schools and city centre redevelopments. Complete range of specialist equipment and services available.

ASBESTOS Asbestos removal and collection. Roof sheets, tiles and guttering. Call for information.

TRANSPORT 4,6 and 8 wheeled tipper Lorries for hire and muck away. Low loader, beaver tail and road brush hire.

PLANT HIRE Wide range of plant. 360 excavators, Dumpers, Bulldozers and Crushers.

EXCAVATIONS Large and small excavations. Specialist works include Equestrian all weather surfaces, drainage and bulk excavations.

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MENDIP TIMES

Tree festival in Farmborough

ChrISTmAS will start early at Farmborough church this year when more than 18 Christmas trees will be on display during the weekend of December 7th and 8th.

The trees, sponsored and decorated by local organisations and businesses, will be on view from 10.30am until 7pm on Saturday.

During Saturday morning there will be live music and in the afternoon pupils from Farmborough Church Primary School will entertain. Sunday’s viewing will start with a special festival service at 11am with viewing of the trees until 4pm.

There will be seasonal refreshments, items for sale and activities for children. Organisers hope that many will visit the village church to enjoy the festival.

Details: 01761 750840 07773345507 jeannette.georgina@gmail.com

Castle Cary looks to the stars

All Saints’ Church in Castle Cary is celebrating Christmas this year with an exhibition of Christmas Stars made by local shops, businesses, schools, organisations and individuals.

It will be held on Saturday, December 14th and Sunday, December 15th, 10am-4pm, together with a Christmas stall for “pre-loved” Christmas decorations and Christmas fare.

Drinks and other refreshments will be served on both days, culminating in a carol service at 4pm on the Sunday. There will be no entry charge but donations will be welcomed.

Morris on tour

meNDIP morris will be dancing at both the Congresbury and Yatton Christmas Fairs.

They will also have their regular Boxing Day tour when they will be dancing at The Plough in Wrington at 12noon and then The Plough in Congresbury at 1pm.

Their beginners’ group meets every other Wednesday at the Congresbury memorial hall from 7.30pm.

Details: mendipmorris@gmail.com

Christmas comes to Wells

WellS Christmas markets on December 14th and 21st will host additional stalls to create a real festive atmosphere in the historic city.

As well as the usual Saturday market, extra stalls will be located through the Bishop’s eye on the Bishop’s Palace Green.

The market, organised by the mendip markets team, will feature seasonal stalls selling Christmas food and drink, gift ideas and seasonal fare providing something for everyone’s Christmas shopping list. music and entertainment will be taking place on both dates in December helping to get those visiting Wells and the market in the Christmas spirit.

Following on from the council’s Climate Change emergency pledge made earlier this year, the market will focus on sustainability with traders offering ethical items as well as tips and ideas. Working with the local community, the markets team are creating a festive Christmas archway at the Bishop’s eye, some made from recycled plastic bottles.

The team are also hoping to hold a number of community days in Wells in the lead up to the market offering people the chance to be involved with creating Christmas decorations from waste and recycling items.

Cllr Nick Cottle, portfolio holder for neighbourhood services, said: “The Wells at Christmas format is a different offering to previous years.

“By extending the regular market into the Bishop’s Palace Green we’ve connected the centre of Wells to the palace. The new layout also gives the Wells Christmas market the opportunity to grow over future years.”

There will be around 90 stalls at the normal market and then a further 30-40 stalls on the Bishop’s Palace Green. The markets will be open from 9am-4pm.

Details: Facebook and Instagram pages at @WellsChristmasMarket www.mendip.gov.uk/christmasmarket or email the Mendip Markets team on markets@mendip.gov.uk

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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Tincknells’ Christmas spectacular

TINCkNellS say they are very excited to extend a warm welcome to their third festive late night shopping event when both their stores in Wells and Congresbury will be keeping their doors open on Wednesday, December 4th until 8pm.

Absolutely everything (with very few exceptions) will be reduced by 20%. They would love you to join them for a complementary mince pie and mulled wine, the more the merrier.

The last two Christmases they’ve been overwhelmed by the support they’ve had from their customers and the amazing atmosphere and buzz in the stores.

They say it is lovely to share an early Christmas celebration with so many regular customers as well as many new faces who are more than welcome too and the fantastic savings on the night are a lovely way to thank their customers for shopping locally with them.

For those that haven’t shopped with them before – they’ve more for you than you might think. So they invite everyone to go in store and see – and anyone planning on going to the Congresbury Broad Street Christmas Fair on the same evening please make sure you save room for a mince pie with them!

Mendip offers festive parking

meNDIP shoppers, visitors and businesses are set to benefit from free parking in the run-up to Christmas and on New Year’s Day. Free car parking will be available in all its pay and display car parks from Wednesday, December 18th until Tuesday, December 24th and on New Year’s Day Wednesday, January 1st.

Anyone visiting the area for Small Business Saturday, on December 7th will find charges suspended at car parks in Cranhill road, Street, St John’s car park in Glastonbury, Union Street in Wells, Great Ostry in Shepton mallet and the Cattle market in Frome.

FLY A GLIDER! THE IDEAL GIFT!

Mendip Gliding Club is located near Cheddar and offers a variety of Glider Flying packages including Introductory Flight Vouchers (from £50), or regular membership and “Fixed Price To Solo” options. Club is open all year on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Suitable for aged 12 upwards – no upper limit! Fly with BGA-rated instructors in dual control gliders. For further information, please visit our website at:

www.mendipgliding.co.uk or email mikesp230654@yahoo.co.uk if you have any questions

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 25

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MENDIP TIMES

Flower workshop will be barnstorming

One of Coral’s Christmas wreath arrangements

Carol concert

NATIONAllYrenowned flower arranger Coral Gardiner will be demonstrating her skills at a workshop at her home in Tunley in December.

Coral and her family run a Barn Store Bath franchise at their North hill farm which will be the venue for the Christmas wreath demonstration on Saturday, December 7th.

ChUrChIll Singers will present a Christmas Carol Concert at St. leonard’s Church, Shipham, on Thursday, December 5th, 7.30pm in aid of Alzheimer’s research Uk. The concert, which will last approximately one hour, will be followed by mince pies and mulled wine.

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Coral puts the finishing touches to a festive wreath at a workshop at The Old Down Inn at Emborough

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Merlin’s Christmas magic

Nearly 70 local people, including 40 performers, both young and old, are rehearsing for this year’s Merlin Christmas show, Cinderella.

The perfect Christmas gift

Champagne balloon flights over the Chew Valley and Mendips

PIANO TUNING, REPAIRS, RESTORATIONS AND SALES Servicing Pianos Throughout Bath, Bristol, Somerset and Wiltshire

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 27

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MENDIP TIMES

Trains, planes and the out-of-the-world Photos by Mark Adler

THE curtain has come down on one of the most lavish Somerset carnival seasons for many years, with Mendip-based Huckduck CC claiming many of the circuit’s major awards, including the overall County Tableau champions title for their entry Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines.

Westonzoyland CC’s entry at Shepton Mallet

A scene from the Meare-based Masqueraders CC’s The Silent Mary (Redemption of the Damned)

Lime Kiln CC’s Steam Machines

Photo: Mike Jacobs

North Pethertonbased Toppers CC in Midsomer Norton

Girl power in Midsomer Norton

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Bridgwater-based Marketeers in Shepton Mallet with Bad Guys

North Petherton-based Toppers CC in Midsomer Norton

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CARNIVAL 2019

There were several ship-themed entries at Shepton Mallet

Curse of the Kraken, by Gremlins CC

Awaken the Dragon,

by Vagabonds, in Shepton Mallet

Scary times on the streets of Shepton Mallet

Shambles CC in their home town of Shepton Mallet with Toot Sweets

Wells-based This is Me CC in the adult single masquerader class

The Wild West on tour

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 29

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MENDIP TIMES

The Cavaliers CC entry Left Behind on the streets of Shepton Mallet

Hot Rock CC’s Voyage to Valhalla arrives in the centre of Midsomer Norton

Aztec colour on a wet night in Shepton Mallet with Anyanwu (Eye of the Sun) by Renegades CC

Some of the cast in Shepton Mallet of Radstock-based Luckington CC’s cart Captain’s Tavern

PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Curse of the Krakens, by Gremlins CC, makes a dramatic entrance at the start of Shepton Mallet carnival

Some of the performers from Vogue by the Susan Hill School of Dancing in Shepton Mallet

Stardust Majorettes in Midsomer Norton

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The quality of costumes and make-up was on the judges’ scoresheets

CARNIVAL 2019

Enigma Twirlers in Midsomer Norton

Somerset Rock: Mardons CC in their home town of Midsomer Norton

Coleford-based Huckyduck CC won awards at every carnival

Part of Rollin’ On The River by the Wells-based Mendip Vale CC

Many clubs chose horror themes

Prehistoric Steam, by Glastonbury-based Wick CC

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 31

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MENDIP TIMES

A property owner’s guide to commercial tenancy The process of drawing up a commercial lease can be a convoluted and time-consuming experience. Our Commercial Property Law team at Mogers Drewett has developed this quick and easy guide to help steer potential landlords through some initial considerations.

Tenancy background checks It may seem obvious, but knowing who your tenant will be and their ability to keep tenant covenants is vital. Questions to consider should include, how viable is the tenant’s business? Would it be wise to secure a rent deposit? Should a limited company tenant provide a personal guarantor?

Lender considerations A commercial property mortgage is typically a long-term loan of up to 25 years and provided at a rate of 70% of the property's value. The remaining amount will need to be funded by the tenant business and their associated rent.

When selecting a lender, it is important to ensure that bank consent will be forthcoming on the grant of a lease.

Ensuring your own house is in order All leases in excess of seven years have to be registered at the land registry. Title documents need to be available to the tenant at the outset of the transaction. If there are missing documents, the sooner your legal advisor is aware, the sooner corrective action can be taken. For a lease of longer than seven years land registry compliant plans are required and should be professionally drawn up.

Repair and maintenance When investing in property it is vital that you are aware of the condition of the property and your associated responsibilities for repairs as landlord.

Being certain about who is responsible for repair and maintenance can prove to be one of the most important aspects at the end of the lease when establishing end of term liabilities.

The importance of break clauses Break clauses (the ability to end the lease early) are amongst the most heavily litigated terms in a lease and require careful drafting. It is always a good idea to obtain legal advice to ensure the clause meets your requirements and that you can comply with any conditions in the break clause to avoid the risk of you losing the right to end the lease early.

Janette Woodland, Mogers Drewett Commercial Property Team

For detailed support and advice on commercial property tenancy agreements, visit www.mogersdrewett.com or call 01749 342323.

PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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BUSINESS

Theatre wards off loneliness

LOneLIneSS is a problem, the evidence is all around us and as we get older the problem is likely to get worse. According to Age UK the number of over 50s experiencing loneliness is set to reach two million by 2025– 2026, compared to around 1.4 million in 2016 – 2017, a 49% increase in ten years.

Another Age UK survey carried out in 2016 points out that half a million older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all.

But there are simple things that we can all do to help, as shown

by The Bristol hippodrome, which is pioneering new initiatives in this area. The theatre noticed that in the past six years, approximately 600 customers purchased a single senior rate ticket.

As a result, The Bristol hippodrome launched the Matinee Mingle which began in collaboration with LinkAge network, a Bristol charity which empowers older people to lead fulfilling and satisfying lives.

When national Friendly approached The Bristol hippodrome to explore areas of mutual interest, helping this group stood as a worthwhile and popular project.

Jonathan Long, chief executive at national Friendly, said: “We are delighted to be supporting The Matinee Mingle in association with The Bristol hippodrome, LinkAge network and Age UK to address loneliness in later life at a time when people may become more vulnerable. The Matinee Mingle encourages people aged 60 and above to get together and enjoy themselves and meet likeminded people.”

Rhona Cockle, a recent convert, said: “The Matinee Mingle is such a nice way for people to gain confidence and meet friends in a world where being on your own can be quite daunting when you are older.”

The Matinee Mingle is free to attend and takes place an hour before selected mid-week matinee performances in The Bristol hippodrome’s Piano Bar. Members need to purchase their ticket for the show they wish to see, at the discounted mid-week matinee rate by calling 0844 871 3012*, at www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome/or popping into the Box Office.

* Fees may apply. All sales including, but not limited to, tickets, promotions, discounts and concessions are subject to terms and conditions of sale and availability, cannot be used on premium seats, in conjunction with any other discount or applied retrospectively. Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

Details: sarahwalker@theambassadors.com

• Fresh produce and dairy • Freshly baked food to go • Smokin’ Bean coffee to go • Fresh flowers • Local Suppliers • Laithwaites wines • Remarkable COOK ready meals

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 33

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MENDIP TIMES

P & C Logs Call Phil on 07734 098323, or Colleen on 07785 250033 or on Evenings 01934 741941

Friendly prompt service from Phil & Colleen at their farm in Charterhouse Quality seasoned beech and ash hardwood, chopped and split into a variety of load options (with free delivery).

Seasons Greetings to all our customers

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Business section.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 23:50 Page 35

A cautionary Christmas story

OnCe upon a time, in a land far away in the north, there lived a short, plumpish, elderly gentleman who generally sported a red suit with white vegan fluffy bits on it. he was a busy chap, with a very long list of jobs and he relied heavily upon his staff (green tunics, stripy tights etc...) to assist him. Occasionally, when things got on top of him, he would sneak away to the stable which adjoined his cosy home in the dark north and have a quiet chat to the reindeer who lived there.

The only sensible name was Rudolph, but he let the side down by having an incredibly red nose which made him look as if he had a bit of a whisky addiction. every time this happened, unbeknownst to the little red clad gentleman, a group of elves, for that is what the men and women in green actually were, followed him into the stable to check that he was alright.

This particular year the conversation was most definitely concerning them. It went something like this: "I have not a single idea what I am supposed to be doing now. has any one of you got a clue? no, Donner, I have sorted the good

children from the naughty. It isn't that. Thanks for the thought Blitzen, but I have definitely finished all the railway sets. Yes, I know I forgot them last year, but this year they are done..."

After a minute of two more of this, the elves could stand it no more. Things had never been this bad! They trooped out from behind Father Christmas’s sleigh, for yes, dear reader, the small chap in red was indeed him, and lined up in an anxious line.

Maximus, the first and eldest elf said: "FC, old chap," for they knew each other well, "FC, is there nothing we can do to help?" next to Maximus, Tarquin (rather quietly spoken) expressed a similar concern. Dave, third in line said: "Come on Boss, get it off your chest, we'll help if we can."

The two remaining elves, Tara and Romily smiled and made encouraging noises. "Yes," they said "We'll absolutely do what we can."

Suddenly Father Christmas slapped a hand to his forehead: "Of course!" he shouted. "how could I have been so

BUSINESS forgetful? You have all helped me and I've got it now!"

The elves looked bemused. "It's all in the names," said Father Christmas chuckling to himself. "Maximus, Tarquin and Dave... MTD, Making Tax Digital! This is the first year I will have to make a return under MTD and I need to get the right software to do it. I wonder who?

“Then Tara and Romily... TR, Tax Return! I need to get the paperwork all organised and start working on that the minute Christmas night is over. I can't be late for the January 31st deadline!"

Ah, what a shame that this happened in a land far away, or we should have been only too happy to assist! however, if you are unsure about Making Tax Digital or dealing with your Tax Return, look no further, it's right here on your doorstep. One of our happy elves will be delighted to assist. Right gang, break open those packs of tights... happy Christmas!

Jane Bowe Probusiness

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 35

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MENDIP TIMES

Investing the Amazon way WITh current political and economic uncertainty, it can be hard not to worry about your investments.

Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, explains what’s not going to change in the next few years: “We know that customers want low prices, fast delivery and vast selection. It's impossible to imagine a future ten years from now where a customer comes up and says, ‘Jeff I love Amazon; I just wish the prices were a little higher’.”

Bezos’ wisdom also applies to investing and we know certain things will work to benefit sensible investors.

We rely on a number of truths which are core to how we structure our portfolios: • We capture the market return on offer using lower-cost, well-structured products • We spread our assets broadly to ensure risks are well-diversified • We balance out the risks of equities by owning high quality bonds • Patience through the short-term dips

and discipline to maintain your strategy are fundamental.

Diversification protects us from unfavourable outcomes Our portfolios are well-structured around the value of deep diversification. They reduce the risk of being caught out by material negative impacts in specific markets.

Owning non-Sterling assets If Sterling falls, overseas equities in our portfolios can benefit. A fall in Sterling will increase the value of non-UK assets in their own currency.

Owning high quality, shorter-dated global bonds high quality bonds act as a strong insurance policy against falls in equity markets. We include bond holdings diversified across a number of different global bond markets. even in uncertain times, principles of good investing, like the ones described above, should hold true through market conditions. Ultimately, what our clients get is an investment portfolio that is designed for their

Andy Page

goals which lets them sleep at night.

For help with your investments contact our expert advisers.

Andy Page • 01749 335056 • andrew.page@om.uk

PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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BUSINESS

Gifting property to your children heRe’S an example which is not unusual. Mr and Mrs Smith have a second residence (say a flat) which they bought 10 years ago of which they own 80% and their son, Cedric, 20% (which they gifted to him at the time of purchase). They now want to gift Cedric their 80% share. Cedric has already occupied it for 5 years.

What are the tax implications?

There are two different issues – firstly, can Cedric benefit from Private Residence Relief (PPR) when selling the flat and, secondly, when will the gift made to Cedric no longer be part of Mr & Mrs Smith’s estate for inheritance tax (IhT) purposes?

If Mr & Mrs Smith choose to give their share in the flat to Cedric, they will be making a disposal for tax purposes and will have to pay CGT on the gain attributable to their share.

Assuming they have never lived in the flat, they will not be entitled to Private Residence Relief, so will have to pay

CGT less their annual exempt amount (now £12,000).

When Cedric decides to sell the flat, he will be entitled to claim PPR on the initial share (20%) for the time he lived in the property (5 years). Assuming

Cedric continues to live in the property after Mr & Mrs Smith gift the balance to him, he will be able to claim PPR on the additional share he has been gifted when he eventually sells it.

From an IhT perspective, the gifts of property are a potentially exempt transfer (PeT). In order for a PeT to be successful, and for the amount to be excluded from an estate for Inheritance Tax purposes, the person making the gift needs to survive for a period of seven years after gifting the property.

As the donor(s) have lived for longer than that since the initial gift (20%), it will be excluded from their estate for IhT purposes. The remaining share (80%) will be a new PeT and will be excluded for IhT purposes if the donor(s) survive seven years after making that gift.

It is always sensible to take professional advice before embarking on these type of transactions.

Edward Lyons

Email: enquiries@lyonslaw.co.uk Website: www.lyonslaw.co.uk Telephone: 01275 332168

An established and progressive law firm providing a personal and costeffective legal service for commercial and individual clients. lFamily & Divorce Law l Co-habitation disputes lInheritance disputes l Wills and Living Wills lPowers of Attorney l Administration of Trusts lProperty – sales and purchases Chew Magna 01275 332168

OFFICES AT: Westbury-on-Trym 0117 950 6506

Kingswood 0117 967 5252 MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 37

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MENDIP TIMES

The way to faster broadband

BUSINESS

A neW survey of 135 Somerset-based firms shows a huge appetite for faster, more reliable broadband connectivity to help them compete more effectively and boost growth.

The survey, undertaken by local full fibre broadband provider Truespeed in partnership with the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, reveals that 42% of businesses still don’t have access to fibre broadband.

One third of businesses have to make do with dated copper phone lines to access the internet, while five percent rely on 4G mobile networks and four percent on satellite-based broadband services.

Jez Allman, sales drector at Truespeed, said: “We must act now to avoid a two-speed nation in which largely rural counties such as Somerset are left languishing in the digital slow lane.”

Winner of the Best Rural ISP 2019 award from the Internet Service Provider Association, Truespeed, is focused on connecting businesses and households in the rural South West to its full fibre broadband network.

Is customers locally include Thatchers Cider, as well as smaller firms such as outdoor sports specialist Mendip Activity Centre, Acacia Cottages, Chew Kitchen, and awardwinning producer, newton Farm Foods.

Details: www.truespeed.com or 01225 300 370

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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MENDIP TIMES

Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists

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Tel: 01934 626093/813261 www.westongarden.co.uk PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

BUSINESS

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Watching the birdie

NEWS

New arts centre for Frome?

Amber with handler and Secret World volunteer Jenny Waring

AMBER, a rescued harrier hawk, posed happily for visitors to the D.H. James photo, optics and show at the Swan Hotel in Wells.

The bird, whose age is unknown, was brought along by volunteers from the Secret World animal rescue centre.

The event showcased suppliers to D.H. James and its sister business The Armandine Gallery and celebrated the 50th anniversary of its founding.

Photographer Rod Fountain, whose career has included being part of the Top Gear team is pictured (centre) with Nick James and Chris Goodwin, from D.H. James

Street artist and illustrator SP:Zero at work watched by Sarah Edwards, from Uni-ball which supplies the Armandine Gallery with Posca paint pens and art materials

AN arts and culture centre of regional significance could be built in Frome on the ten-acre Saxonvale site, which Mendip District Council bought in 2018.

The council have revealed plans to offer an “exclusivity agreement” to Frome Town Council to work-up a business case to develop the Western Warehouse free from competition.

The historic warehouse has a long history of engineering and formed part of the Notts Industries business.

The Western Warehouse is adjacent to the proposed new public square which it’s hoped will create a lively centre promoting independent local businesses alongside the new arts and culture venue.

In addition the Saxonvale development will feature public spaces, cycle and pedestrian paths, modern buildings and sensitive landscaping, retaining historic trees.

Ready for the off

Hounds from the Mendip Farmers’ Hunt wait patiently in the car park of the Old Down Inn at Emborough ahead of a trail hunt across local countryside

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 41

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Planting for the future

A BLEAK stretch of the East Mendip Way at Frome is being transformed by a hedge planting project being led by an outdoor learning co-operative.

Thanks to a donation of 500 saplings, Shared Earth Learning and passers-by have begun the task of planting the route at Vallis Vale with hawthorn, hazel, rowan and field maple, amongst other species.

Shared Earth Learning works at the Vallis Veg site, 18-acres of agro-ecological land, farmed as a market garden. The cooperative’s main objective is to: “enhance local people’s relationship with the natural world” running a forest school, workshops and therapeutic horticulture sessions.

Alex Hart, from SEL, said: “At long last, things have fallen into place: permission from the farmer, provision of baby trees and access to tools and volunteers and so planting began this November, and will continue next March and on until the whole stretch has been planted with sapling hawthorn, rowan, hazel and field maple and yet more native whips (tree seedlings) will arrive in 2020 from the Woodland Trust.

“For years it has been imagined how much shelter a hedge could provide for wildlife and walkers alike and finally the work can begin. It could take years, but how beautiful and beneficial it will be!”

Warren, a local gardener who was given the saplings and contacted SEL, watches as two passing dog walkers join in

The planters take a break for lunch – vegetables for soup came from allotments just a few yards away

For details, visit: http://sharedearthlearning.blogspot.com

Quilters support guide dogs

DRAYCOTT Quilters had a very successful show on November 9th. It was a very busy and friendly exhibition of work.

They had around 200 visitors and the quilt raffle raised a fantastic £1,740. The winning ticket was drawn by Tiggi Trethowan at the show.

The show combined with the quilt raffle raised £3,503.06 for Guide Dogs.

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Tree planters were encouraged to write their own messages on marker posts

Greenspace ad.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 08:33 Page 1

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MENDIP TIMES

Awards finalist

WedmOre jeweller, erica Sharpe, has been shortlisted as a finalist for the National Association of Jeweller’s designer of the Year awards.

The NAJ team were looking for evidence of innovation, achievement, teamwork, leadership and contribution to wider society. erica’s design flair, craftsmanship, business acumen, ethical sourcing and recycling has attracted the attention of the selection panel.

Simon Forrester, chief executive of The National Association of Jewellers, described the entries as “competitive” across the board, and showing “true business impacts”. He added: “These were great submissions and all with their own unique strengths and creativity. What a showcase of innovation!” erica says she is delighted to be chosen and eagerly awaits the announcement of the overall winners in december. In the meantime she is busy creating her distinctive Fairtrade gold collections and one-off commissions, many of which re-use vintage and existing family jewels.

She said: “It is a real joy to be able to produce items of beauty that enrich people’s lives and have a meaning way beyond their material value. To be recognised within the trade for this is a real honour.”

Local artists showcase Snow leopard by Diana Walker

THe Old Bakery Artists have been granted space in the radco store in radstock to showcase their work.

They will be joined by the internationally renowned Snug Foxes. Some of the money raised will go to radco’s community charities.

OBA gallery manager Neale Mellersh cuts the ribbon to open the new gallery watched by Radco directors Suzanne Burgess and Jonathan Rich

New from Roger Jones

Chilcompton Station 1963

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Original oil paintings, prints, cards & calendars Over 100 images available! (Full Framing Service) All pictures come with full text included

PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

roger@chewvalleyart.co.uk • www.chewvalleyart.co.uk 01761 411842 • 07549 057523

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ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Clock these clearance items!

THe November Antique and Collectables Sale at Cooper and Tanner was a resounding success.

A recent clearance, from Bath, provided the majority of the top-selling lots including ten longcase clocks which all sold very well, bucking the overall current market for them at auction. Hammer prices ranged from £320 up to £3,400 with a flurry of telephone bidders on the day.

A late 19th century Swiss rosewood and marquetry music box, playing ten airs, with six bells and a single drum, also had bidders very excited with a hammer price of £1,200 achieved.

The jewellery section of the sale was very strong and again they had great results here. A few of the key pieces that made great results were a continental gold bracelet, the 18mm wide mesh bracelet with beaded lozenge shaped motifs making £1,280 on commission.

An emerald and diamond 18 carat gold cluster ring, the emerald enclosed by ten brilliant cut diamonds and a single brilliant cut to each shoulder (the diamonds totalling approximately 0.6 carats) were knocked down at £1,100 and an aquamarine, ruby and diamond clip brooch, in unmarked white metal, the aquamarine with a trio of round cut rubies to either end, the frame with a series of five scrolls along either side, each centred with a single cut diamond, and a fan shape motif to each end fetched £1,000, both lots sold to online bidders.

A well-engineered, scratch-built, large-scale model of a live steam traction engine finished in dark blue, sold for £4,000.

A well-engineered, scratch-built, large-scale model of a live steam traction engine finished in dark blue, sold for £4,000

Although it had last steamed approximately 20 years ago, the model had been very well maintained.

Their next Antique and Collectables sale on Wednesday, december 4th has a large collection of Corgi and Gilbow buses, a 19th century concertina action table, a collection of jewellery and railway interest. l Cooper and Tanner are having an antiques valuation morning at their Cheddar office on Wednesday, december 11th.

Auctioneer Gareth Wasp will be present from 9am until 1pm; no appointment is necessary, just pop along on the day for a free valuation. Please feel free to call the office on 01373 852419 if you have any further questions.

COOPER AND TANNER SALE ROOMS HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR NOVEMBER SALE

Gold bracelet. Sold £1,280

Emerald ring. Sold £1,100

Longcase clock.

Sold £3,400

Aquamarine brooch.

Sold £1,000

SALE ROOMS Gareth Wasp Telephone 01373 852419 The Agricultural Centre, Standerwick, Frome BA11 2QB gareth.wasp@cooperandtanner.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 45

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MENDIP TIMES

From sheep to silk

A SHeeP farmer from Priddy has become one of the newest members of the Somerset Guild of Craftsmen – thanks to her sewing skills.

Christine duckett creates lingerie, underwear, shirts, blouses and waistcoats from her home on the edge of the village when she’s not tending her flock of Clun Forest sheep on a nearby smallholding.

A sheep farmer’s daughter, Christine discovered a talent for sewing from an early age and it led to a career creating garments for companies supplying many of the leading stores at home and abroad, ranging from Harrod’s and Harvey Nicholls to Sachs and Bloomingdales. Her garments – mostly

Christine at work at her home in Priddy

bespoke – have been sold to royalty and pop stars.

Christine’s journey has not always been easy. Concerns over late payments from one company she worked for led to bouts of depression; Christine believes working with nowbanned organophosphate sheep dips may also Indulgence at the Somerset Guild of have contributed to Craftsmen showroom in Wells her illness.

But now she’s back working from the attic of her house, to the sound of loud music and, as well as selling through the guild, is busy making items for sale at small craft fairs.

Christine said: “I’m good at making the clothing, but no good at sales and that’s where the guild has been so good for me.”

Tanith Tothill, manager of the guild showroom in Wells – and a friend of Christine’s for many years – said: “We’re delighted to have someone as talented as Christine as a member.”

23a Broad Street, Wells BA5 2DJ Tel: 01749 671112 Open Mon–Sat 10–4 www.somersetguild.co.uk PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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ARTS & ANTIQUES

Gems sparkle at pre-Christmas sale ClevedON Salerooms’ recent quarterly specialist sale included a fine selection of jewellery, some perhaps destined to be opened on Christmas day.

An 18ct Julia-Plana amethyst and diamond bracelet sold for £2,000 and an edwardian turquoise and diamond set bracelet sold for £1,800.

Not forgetting the gentlemen, an 18ct rolex Oyster Perpetual realised

£5,200. The catalogue cover was graced by the art deco figure of an ice skater

by Ferdinand Preiss that warmed bidders’ hearts to £8,500.

Clevedon Salerooms invite all previous customers for a “winter warmer” at the december 12th Antiques & Interiors Sale, the perfect opportunity to buy that unusual Christmas gift for someone special. viewing is on december 11th 10am–6.30pm.

Bracelets and bangles: Julia-Plana amethyst and diamond bracelet sold for £2,000 and an Edwardian turquoise and diamond bangle sold for £1,800

Details: www.clevedon-salerooms.com

18ct Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Every lot in every auction, illustrated and sold with live internet bidding

RESULTS FROM THE NOVEMBER SPECIALIST SALE

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE AnTiquE VALuATiOn DAYS

2nd, 3rd & 16th, 17th December 9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary

Ferdinand Preiss Skater Sold for £8,500

Pair of Cantonese celadon vases Sold for £4,500

Antiques, Interiors, Collectables & Jewellery Sale Thursday 12th December Sale starts at 10.30am On view day before 10am – 6.30pm

Tel: 01934 830111 The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT www.clevedon-salerooms.com

IWC stainless steel deck watch Sold for £5,000

Pilkington lustre vase Sold for £4,800

Wishing all of our Clients MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 47

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MENDIP TIMES

Calendar covers 2,000 years of history

Three of Axbridge Pageant’s “Calendar Girls” in front of the tapestry display currently in the town hall. From left to right: Jackie Fowler, Barbara Wells and Janie Gray

WITH less than ten months to go before Axbridge’s historic town square is once again transformed into a huge stage for the 2020 Pageant, local seamstresses have had their work immortalised in a fund-raising calendar to celebrate the occasion. each month of the calendar depicts a scene from the Axbridge Tapestry, the town’s very own version of the Bayeux Tapestry.

And each of those tableaux faithfully recreates one of 12 dramatic scenes in the Pageant itself: from roman times right up to the 20th century.

The creation of the Axbridge Tapestry has added another colourful chapter in the pageant’s history. Janie Gray, who heads up the pageant’s 20-strong costume making team, said: “After the 2010 Axbridge Pageant some of us who had been meeting regularly for over two years realised that our lives felt a little empty! And so, in 2012 the Axbridge Sewing Group was formed. “each pageant costs a huge amount of money to stage, far more than the ticket sales alone will provide. And while we have had some generous sponsorship, we still need to raise a lot more between here and next August.”

The next pageant will be held over three days in the last weekend of August 2020 and a cast of upwards of 400 local performers of all ages will be supported by more than 100 volunteers. l Copies of the calendar (£8) are available from various outlets in Axbridge. The tapestry is currently on show in Axbridge Town Hall. You can read more about the tapestry at: www.axbridgepageant.com/

PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

The quirkier, the better!

STUCK for gift ideas this Christmas? Swan Artworks picture framers offer a wide range of creative possibilities, not just for your photographs and prints but all kinds of memorabilia and 3d objects.

How about box framing a treasured family heirloom or token? A lucky sixpence or even vintage toys or a frieze of lego men!

Tony and Carrie Osborne, at Swan Artworks, based on the Old mills Trading estate at Paulton, can come up with ideas to frame all kinds of things, the quirkier the better! So whether it’s just for fun or something more meaningful, they will do their best to make a wonderful gift for you to give – at any time of the year!

You’ve been framed! Swan Artworks will always try to find a solution

Last orders for Christmas are Wednesday, December 18th.

Cam Valley Arts Trail

CAm valley Arts Group were delighted that many braved shocking weather to visit their arts trail around the villages of Timsbury, High littleton, Paulton, Temple Cloud, Tunley and Clutton. Over 45 artists and crafters exhibited their work. visitors are pictured enjoying lucy epson’s calligraphy group.

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Impressive antiques sale attracts huge interest THe November sale of Antiques and Collectables at the mendip Auction rooms saw a fabulous entry of over 650 lots including a special entry of items from Harptree Court, east Harptree following its sale having been agreed.

There was some quality furniture on offer and bidding was particularly robust for a 19th century triple pedestal dining table that achieved £3,700. An accompanying set of 12 dining chairs with drop in tapestry seats sold for £1,600.

A victorian walnut breakfront bookcase realised £1,400 and an early 19th century French mahogany and exotic wood inlaid chest of drawers realised £900.

The mendip Auction rooms attract a good entry of watches and collectors were in attendance. A hallmarked 18ct yellow metal gold open face pocket watch by Alfred miller dated london, 1879, made £1,300. A stainless steel

wristwatch by Zenith made £800.

Once again, an excellent entry of jewellery was on offer and a white metal dress ring with an oval faceted cut blue sapphire sold for £1,300 with a yellow metal wavy link panel bracelet achieving £950.

A strong entry of silver items also met keen interest with a silver five piece rococo melon form tea and coffee service making £1,500, an Art deco style silver cocktail shaker £600 and a silver

ARTS & ANTIQUES

four piece tea service, Walker and Hall, 1904, £550.

“Collectables” covers a wide range of items and always add interest leading to unpredictable demand. An 18th century brass sextant by Bellby, Bristol, in its original mahogany case, generated strong demand selling for £700 whilst a limited edition copy of The Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T e lawrence made £750.

Cantering to first place , however, was a carved and painted rocking horse with its original Hamleys ivorine label that generated competitive bidding from within the room eventually selling for £3,900. december will be a busy month at the auction rooms with a victorian and later effects sale on Tuesday, december 10th quickly followed by a very large Antiques and Collectables sale on Friday, 13th and Saturday december 14th. do go along for some Christmas shopping!

The Mendip Auction Rooms are now open Monday–Friday, 10am-3pm for valuations or members of the team will be content to visit you at home free of charge. Contact the auction rooms on 01749 840770 or email enquiries@mendipauctionrooms.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 49

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MENDIP TIMES

Winscombe shopping night

Christmas at the Woodborough

The Woodborough will be buzzing on Winscombe’s christmas shopping night, offering complimentary savoury bites and mulled wine. it’s a magnet for the crowds, once they have toured the shops and seen Father christmas. it has a new winter menu, including hearty dishes like ox cheek pie and seafood risotto, and an updated wine list. it also stocks more than 20 rums and 63 gins to get the festive season started. The pub is fully booked for christmas Day but has a few party dates left, including buffets in its skittle alley.

THE

WOODBOROUGH INN

Modern and comfortable bar with traditional log burner and friendly welcome

in • A real village pub – all welcome • Open all day, every day • Freshly prepared food • Extensive menu and daily specials • Local ales • Freshly-ground coffee • A stones throw from The Strawberry Line • Outside seating area www.woodborough-inn.co.uk

01934 844167 • contact@woodborough-inn.co.uk Sandford Road, Winscombe, Somerset BS25 1HD

Litsters Traditional Butcher

PETER EVERETT

Orders now being taken for Christmas 27 Woodborough Road Winscombe North Somerset BS25 1AG

01934 842248 Mob: 07772 007128

clivelitster@tiscali.co.uk PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Registered Osteopath

12 Woodborough Road Winscombe BS25 1AA

T: 01934 844764

3

December

Winscombe’s christmas shopping night will be on Tuesday, December 3rd, 6– 8.30pm, when the main road through the village will be closed to traffic.

There will be lots of festive fun and cheer as well as the chance to browse the shops for christmas shopping.

Father christmas will parade through the village at 6pm to his grotto. Donations of £2 per child will go to the Thatchers Foundation. many of the shops will be offering mulled wine and other seasonal goodies, while there will be music from barry Walsh and Winscombe community singers.

The RnLi and the fire service will also be there.

Wholefood specialists scoop & spice is a small family-run business selling a wide range of wholefoods, including spices, rice nuts, seeds, pulses, dried fruits, gluten free and vegan products.

They have a wide range of loose items so you can buy the amount you want. They also

Stocking over 140 HERBS & SPICES Nuts, Seeds, Rice, Pulses, Grains, Herbal Teas, Natural Sweeteners Eco Cleaning Products including refills Gluten Free • Dairy Free Fair Trade Gifts and more!

Less packaging – Less waste!

Sandford Road, Winscombe BS25 1HD Telephone: 01934 843822 101 High Street, Yatton BS49 4DR Telephone: 01934 835427

Curry Catering at a venue of your choice!

have eco refills available for washing up liquid, laundry liquid, fabric conditioner, hand soap, shampoo and conditioners.

Visit them on the Winscombe shopping evening for a mixed bean curry with every £5 spent and a free goody bag with every £10 spent.

OFSTED 2017

For children aged 2 – 5 years Dedicated 2 – 3-year-old year old room Term time only The only MEAB accredited Montessori Nursery School in Somerset, reaccredited in June 2018.

The week includes teachers specialising in – Montessori, Dance, Music, Cooking, Messy Play and Forest Rangers Lunch is a two course locally sourced home cooked meal The Rainbow Montessori Nursery School The Lynch Chapel, The Lynch, Winscombe BS25 1AR www.winscombemontessori.co.uk e-mail rainbows@winscombemontessori.co.uk Tel 01934 708325 to arrange a visit.

Montessori, Music & Sensory Play Sessions for babies and toddlers

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Professional eye care

oRRiss and Low opened in Winscombe in 1986 and from small beginnings has expanded rapidly, constantly improving equipment and skills.

The husband and wife team now employ ten staff and offer specialist contact lens fittings, vision training and treatment for certain eye conditions, a range of imaging techniques and 21st century eye care. eyecare membership offers easy budgeting, with up to 40% discount on spectacles, and the very best in eye care for a small monthly payment. over 700 of their patients are eyecare members.

Their spectacle frames include new special ranges erin's World for Downs syndome fittings and Tots specs for babies and toddlers.

They also have uniquely colour-corrective polarising maui Jim sunglasses for snow, water, sand – but also low winter sun on the roads.

A new pre-registration optometrist started with them in september. Jeannette ngadieu is settling in very well and enables them to offer eye examinations in French as well as english!

FOCUS ON WINSCOMBE

Orriss and Low Optometrists Corner House Winscombe BS25 1AQ 01934 843713 www.orrissandlow.co.uk

North Somerset’s travel specialists

The north somerset holiday show is back – bigger and better! After the success of this year's event, organised by Global independent Travel, tour operators have been signing up in their dozens eager to meet you. organisers say they have listened to your comments and have more cruise operators showcasing their products this time on sunday, February 9th next year.

They are delighted to have on-board cunard and msc cruises. in fact they have more than 25 travel companies, including big tour operator names including sandals, intrepid, Kuoni, Jet 2 and saga holidays. plus it's their tenth anniversary in business, so they will be marking the occasion with special birthday celebrations, cake, competitions, a raffle and more! They’d love you to attend.

Also Global independent Travel have a treat in store for Winscombe’s late night shopping event on Tuesday, December 3rd.

Frozen fans will be pleased to hear that olaf will be making a special appearance at their Winscombe office at 6pm and 7pm. Go and say hello! There will be a complementary glass of baileys for the adults and colouring competition and cakes for the kids throughout the evening. it's time to get together – a unique chance to meet them socially after work and if you need holiday advice, they’ll be ready and waiting!

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 51

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MENDIP TIMES

FOCUS ON WINSCOMBE

Raid The Pantry!

TRAcey crouch (left) and Louise Lippe have now been running The pantry in Winscombe for two years, providing a full range of meals from 7.30am-5.30pm weekdays and 8am-4pm on saturdays, plus bistro evenings, other functions and outside catering.

Visit them on Winscombe shopping night, when they will provide ginger bread with every drink as well as pulled pork rolls with apple sauce and stuffing!

Service • Spares Sales • Repairs 14 Woodborough Road Winscombe North Somerset BS25 1AD Tel: 01934 843454 Fax: 01934 842936 info@bdbgb.com www.bdbgb.com

10 Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1AA Tel: 01934 842811 Email: enquiries@brgplaw.co.uk

Friendly local office with car park at rear Home visits by arrangement Quotations given without obligation

• Residential & Commercial conveyancing • Divorce and Family Breakdown • Wills and Probate • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Special Needs of the Elderly

Join us for a glass of mulled cider and a ginger bread

We will have glitter tattoos and gifts to purchase on the night in addition to our range of luxury wallpapers, carpets, hard floor coverings and fabrics We also stock Farrow and Ball paints

Wishing all of our clients a very Merry Christmas PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Made to measure service for curtains and a wide variety of blinds Upholstery service also available

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Max’s family win their fight for treatment

NEWS

In August we brought you the tragic story of young Max Sewart, aged eight, whose father planned to take him to Holland for treatment, which had been refused here on cost grounds. He’s had his first course of treatment in Rotterdam, but the good news is that the authorities here have now agreed to provide the treatment. His father Simon explains: The Chew Valley & Mendip community has been incredible in their support for Max and we really cannot find the words to describe how much this has helped us during the past few months; the local people, families, clubs, organisations and businesses – we'll never forget.

We wanted to update everyone on Max, as he is now finally receiving the enzyme therapy Brineura, and the dust is beginning to settle on our day-to-day life.

After his diagnosis in February, we spent months campaigning against the decision by NICe not to fund Brineura. We also took legal advice and in July we started to travel to Rotterdam for medical assessments.

In August, we began renting an apartment in Rotterdam, close to the city docks – boats and ships being Max's current favourite type of transport – entertainment on the doorstep!

In October, Max was able to have his operation to insert a port device into his brain, which is used to infuse Brineura.

Then, on October 28th, Max had his very first infusion at the erasmus MC hospital in Rotterdam (see photo). he will require an infusion of Brineura every two weeks and the process takes most of the day. At the time of writing Max has had two infusions, has coped with it all brilliantly and, when asked by any nurse if he needs anything, his answer is always "chocolate cake", which he's yet to be given!

In late September, NICe and NhSe reversed their decision, after political, public and legal pressure, and agreed to fund Brineura. This finally got approved in late October and the other three children that were also waiting began their infusions in mid-November.

Max will continue in Rotterdam until he can transfer back

Max in Westminster during the campaign for funding

Max after his first infusion

to Great Ormond Street hospital (GOSh), hopefully in December, or January at the latest.

It's hoped Brineura will provide a number of years of quality life to Max, where without it the average age of death is just 11. Max is so happy, sociable and sparky and loves nothing more than to share a laugh and a joke with anyone who has the time to listen, but particularly any lady who has entered middle-age or beyond!

Once Max has transferred back to GOSh, this chapter will draw to a close and we'll move on to the next phase of Max and Batten Disease. But, we'll always remember the incredible support from the people of the Chew Valley and beyond – thank you for helping us to #SaveOurMax. Felix, Max, Ivana & Simon Sewart East Harptree

Max at the port in Rotterdam

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 53

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MenDip TiMes

History society welcomes visitors

BLAGDON Local History Society welcomed over 100 visitors to an exhibition held over three days, which looked in detail at the Street End part of the village, an area encompassing Street End, Rhodyate and Street End Lane, up the hill from the Seymour Arms.

Some of the oldest cottages in the village are to be found in this area. The society’s archivist Sheila Johnson has amassed a large body of knowledge together with photographs, oral memories, newspaper cuttings and old maps, much of which was on display.

Shops, a blacksmith’s forge, a beer house, notable residents, a Young Women’s Christian Association hostel and the wellknown Mendip Bungalow Hotel (now the HQ of Yeo Valley) all featured.

Residents with particular interest in a house or family were pointed in the direction of census documents, electoral

rolls and the ever-popular “Domesday Book” compiled in 2000 with owners’ entries and photographs of every house in the village.

The Street End area was known for its many small labourers’ or miners’ cottages which often housed large families in very basic accommodation.

The rumours of “sundowner” cottages, when a man could build walls and a fireplace in a day and then claim it as legally his, have not been proved.

But recent research has suggested that in 1821 several homes were certainly built without permission, irking the

local Vestry. There is an ongoing project to find out more about the area’s houses by looking at deeds and documents of house owners. If you can add to our knowledge, please get in touch.

The latest, extensively extended and revised edition of Volume 1 of A History of Blagdon, originally published 15 years ago, was launched. It contains several new chapters, including a fascinating account of Yeo Valley family farm by Mary and Sarah Mead.

Among other updated and augmented articles is one about WW2 when there was a sack factory and American soldiers billeted and another about the foundation of the school.

Books are available from the Society or Blagdon Village PO and Stores.

Jacky Kerly

Details: visit blagdon.org website or email pip.riley@talk21.com 01761 462120.

PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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Mining at Green ore

I READ with interest your magazine each month and your article Mining at Green Ore by Phil Hendy caught my eye because we were involved in clearing it up in the 1950s.

My family owned engineering manufacturing works at Welton; at Radstock Road in Midsomer Norton and Tor Hill Quarry, Wells.

We were also carrying out maintenance work for most other industries in the region – especially paper and printing, collieries, quarries and agriculture.

However chairman Ralph Blatchford was personally more interested in trying to start quarrying himself and so bought several quarries. He was besotted in buying land when it was cheap in the post-war period. This was often to the detriment of our manufacturing.

In the course of this he acquired former bumpy mine workings both to the east and west of Green Ore crossroads.

The idea was to level these and use them as a depository for spreading waste lime from St. Cuthbert’s Mill and burnt lime from own kilns at Tor Hill quarry. Importantly, there were large grants towards this provided one filled in the necessary forms.

It should be remembered that in 1944 the road from say Burnt Wood right through to Priddy was a long, busy parking strip for trucks marshalling for D-Day. They occupied one side.

Reminders of those turbulent days remained. To the east was and still is a long vehicle inspection ramp.

Some nearby Nissen huts are used as a club still, I believe. To

We had owned our first dozer some while before we realised we needed a trailer on which to move it from site to site. We already had this seddon artic tractor (pictured) for hauling ex UsAAF Fruehauf flat trailers. The solution was to make a ten-ton low-loader ourselves, with knock-out rear axle. people forget that just post-war each make of British trailer had its own brand of hitch, when today they all use a Us standard pin. so there was a real problem of what was able to haul what. We had other trailers with Hands, Taskers and other hitches but had to standardise them to be able to use the Us war surplus ones, like our new low-loader.

HisTory

Blatchfords' international Harvester BTD-6 Angle dozer near priddy in 1963. Johnny philips was driving, with a fag for heating!

the west there were more huts. Near Yoxter more curved-roof sheds remain from those days.

After constructing many new factory buildings for Purnell’s at Paulton, we had a spare Fowler VF Bulldozer. It moved to Cock Hill quarry and to Green Ore area. This single cylinder brute had to be started with smouldering fag paper and a blank 12bore cartridge. It belched smoke and smuts so badly that one driver, “Tony the Yank” erected a tall smoke pipe making it resemble a Mississippi stern wheeler!

When we saw the latest International Harvester BTD-6 at John Wainrights’, father bought one. My brother Michael and I used to drive it at Green Ore on levelling. Two teenagers but only one bulldozer!

Quarrels broke out so father bought a second one in July 1955. This went on to help to save the day in January 1963, when it cut through the blizzard snow to get food supplies to Priddy – but that is another story.

Earthmoving at Priddy was like nothing we ever encountered.

The ground could give way at the front of the dozer as yet another shaft was uncovered. On hot days, adders liked to sun themselves on the warm crawler trackers – there are many snakes on Mendip.

Our work went on for months; RM Penny would do it in days now. On completion the grant application had to be infilled by Mr Foxwell, who lived in an old Nissen hut there from the war.

He forgot or perhaps could not write? The omission cost father a fortune.

Our lives moved on and we did nothing with the levelled ground. So it was sold off.

The first bulldozers were sold down to Barnstaple. After much sterling work snow clearing, in quarries, for NCB and even in constructing the bridges, the third was retained and we still have it. I am long past driving it so gave it to my son, who keeps it on his farm near Shaftesbury. It made him realise the value of a farm bulldozer, so he sent over to America and bought a modern Caterpillar.

How are the mighty fallen!

In old age, I am a firm believer in the virtues of calamine for the skin, just like the local quarrymen rub in. Now a hypocrite, I actually buy it in a bottle, when we live above it.

With best wishes and thanks for a fine magazine, John Blatchford Midsomer norton MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 55

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MENDIP TIMES

Cheddar Festive Night is the start of Christmas

6

December

Cheddar will be lit up and buzzing at the annual festive night celebration on Friday, december 6th. Festivities start in the village centre at 6pm with a hog roast and choir outside the Bath arms and continue along Cliff Street with more carols and seasonal fayre at the Methodist Church. as usual Cliff Street car park will be packed with the farmers’ market stalls and many others selling all manner of food, drinks and gifts, plus funfair rides.

There is entertainment all evening at The riverside Inn, gift shops in the gorge, hot food and mulled wine, Kings academy’s Big Pitch in the Garden of Fragrance and rides on the land train up and down the gorge.

Gough’s Cave will be open from 6-7.30pm for just £5 entry, all proceeds going to avon & Somerset Search & rescue.

Look out too for Cheddar Fire Service’s Santa’s sleigh as it makes its way around the village. roads will be closed from 4pm from the market cross to the caves and in Tweentown, but there is free parking in the car parks above Gough’s Cave, at Kings academy, the business park in Station road and in Church Street car park.

butChers * fishmonGers * deliCatessen

Cheddar Motors Ltd. Full garage services

Christmas orders now being taken Gift hampers and vouchers open: monday – saturday 7am-6pm sunday 10am-4pm e Cross, union street, Cheddar, somerset bs27 3na 01934 742521 • email cobbsofcheddar@outlook.com PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

MOTs and servicing Repairs and diagnostics Cars • Vans Motorcycle MOTs Wheel alignment

Tweentown, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3JE Tel 01934 742955 Email: cheddarmotors@gmail.com

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Remembering loved ones

MeMBerS of Cheddar Vale Lions Club are inviting you to remember loved ones by sponsoring a light on their Tree of Light.

The project, which is in its seventh year, will again be placed at Cheddar Garden Centre. a list of all those to be remembered will be displayed in front of the tree.

The official lighting-up ceremony is on Thursday, december 12th with music, carols and mulled wine, starting

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

Festive Night cheer courtesy of Hansford’s

hoT festive turkey rolls will be on offer at hansford’s deli in Tweentown for Cheddar Festive Night – so call in and see them.

They will have lots of Christmas goodies too and orders can be placed at the deli or at their butcher’s shop in Shipham.

Sally, Nick and staff say they would like to thank their customers for their continued support and wish them a very happy Christmas.

CHEDDAR

● Extensive range of quality greetings cards ● Stationery and office supplies ● Foreign currency ● Photo booth and passport check and send service

at 4.30pm. all money raised will aid the Cheddar Valley community supporting local projects and those in need.

The minimum donation for a light is £5. application forms are available from the garden centre, various local outlets, calling 0345 833 7402 or from the Lions’ website.

TEL: 01934 741022

Details: www.cheddarvalelions.org.uk

Cheddar Ales supports Mendip fund

Cheddar ales is supporting the Mendip hills Fund by donating 20 percent of profits from its hardrock brew to the fund, which is a partnership between Mendip aoNB and Somerset Community Foundation.

Jem ham, who founded Cheddar ales 13 years ago, said: “We are delighted to have formed the partnership with the Mendip hills Fund and to be able to offer ongoing support to its many local causes in our area.”

The fund distributes grants to groups across the area towards projects that conserve and enhance the landscape, promote understanding and enjoyment of the area or support the social and economic wellbeing of the community.

The brewery now produces a wide range of craft ales, available in many local pubs or from its shop at the brewery at Winchester Farm, Cheddar. Special Christmas gift packs are now available.

Cheddar Ales, Winchester Farm, Draycott Road, Cheddar BS27 3RP 01934 744193

Christmas at Cheddar Ales

Brewery shop open 8am-4pm Monday to Friday Festive packs available

Supporting the local community pint by pint

Email: sales@cheddarales.co.uk www.cheddarales.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 57

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MENDIP TIMES

Celebrating Christmas – every day!

Old Rowlands The Cliffs | Cheddar Gorge | Somerset BS27 3QE Phone: 01934 273127 Email: sales@oldrowlands.com www.oldrowlands.com

Cheddar & district Funeral directors are here to help you every step of the way, providing dignity and respect to you and your loved ones. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Funeral arrangements can be made at our office or in the comfort of your own home.

Direct Service (No attendance)

£1499.00

Traditional Service (Without Limousine)

£2799.00

Traditional Service (With 1 x Limousine)

£2949.00

KaTherINe and Barry Lacoste’s weekend in Cheddar proved to be a life-changer – shortly afterwards they saw that old rowlands in Cheddar Gorge was for sale and decided to move from the small village where they lived near Winchester.

Just over a year later Katherine says: “Cheddar’s great. We have had a lovely welcome from local traders and residents and we are enjoying the fantastic selection of restaurants, pubs and takeaways we have in walking distance.” old rowlands is one of very few shops in the country that celebrate Christmas all year round. It’s named after famous Cheddar eccentric rowland Pavey. The Christmas shop is one of the destination shops in the gorge with some customers making a special three-four hour drive to get their unique one-of-a-kind decorations.

Katherine said: “over the last year we have worked very hard on developing our Christmas collection and have permanently expanded the new ranges across most of the shop.

“The large Santa who has stood outside the shop for many years offers ‘Selfie with Santa’ charity fundraising for Western hospicecare and the royal British Legion. We also acknowledge that some people may not be fans of Christmas and for them we provide the ‘Grinch waiting area’.”

Katherine and Barry look forward to welcoming visitors on Cheddar Festive Night.

New course

Cheddar Bridge Club will be starting a new beginners' course at 2pm on Tuesday, January 14th in the Catholic Church hall, Upper North Street, Cheddar.

It will consist of ten two-hour lessons and cost £100 including the course book. The first lesson will be a free “taster session” after which you will be asked to sign up for the full course if you wish to continue and receive the course book which normally retails for £26.

Gift vouchers are available should you wish to give this course as a novel Christmas present.

Details: www.bridgewebs.com/cheddar

PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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Restore, reuse and re-love your furniture . . .

ThIS message comes from business partners Jillian humphrey and Lucy Mead of Pretty Sitting Upholstery & Interiors. With so many old sofas and chairs going into landfill every week, there’s a huge cost to the planet.

Pretty Sitting specialises in both traditional and modern reupholstery to extend the life of your furniture, including replacing or refilling sagging sofa cushions.

Their new showroom in Cheddar and online store are stocked with gorgeous reupholstered vintage chairs, up-cycled furniture, handmade cushions and also throws and rugs made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and yarns.

Why not learn to repair and reupholster your own furniture?

Got a project you want to work on? how about joining a weekly class, suitable for complete beginners, in the large workshop at Barrows house.

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR Pretty Sitting UPHOLSTERY & INTERIORS

Creating unique and bespoke interiors What we offer: Reupholstery and soft furnishings service • Cushion refilling service Handmade lampshades to order • Upholstery and craft courses Restored vintage furniture, recycled and hand-made soft furnishings for sale

Barrows House, Tweentown, Cheddar BS27 3HU • 01934 752725 info@prettysittingvintage.co.uk • www.prettysittingvintage.co.uk

Proprietor John denbee FrICS

Details: www.prettysittingvintage.co.uk email info@prettysittingvintage.co.uk or call 01934 752725 for more information

The cat that bit off more than she could chew

WITh Christmas not far away – and the paraphernalia that comes with it soon filling our homes – we are reminded of the importance of being aware of our surroundings and the things that our furry friends may like to get their paws on. axe Valley Vets have performed numerous surgeries to remove foreign bodies such as toys. on occasion, they've even had to remove a pair of pants!

The festive season recalls a case in which a cat tried to bite off more than she could chew. Bonnie was brought to the vets as the owner had noticed that she had been off her food and not very happy in herself. She had also recently started pawing at her face. on examination, there was a sewing needle lodged in the roof of her mouth. after some sedation, they were able to extract the needle and thread. Following a course of treatment they are pleased to report she has since had no further incidents and is doing really well.

Bonnie is not the first cat this has happened to and fortunately due to the owners’ awareness of their cat’s behaviour a worse situation was avoided. It also illustrates the importance of keeping certain items out of reach, so this Christmas, please be mindful of the objects and food that are within your pet's reach.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 59

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MENDIP TIMES

CHEDDAR NURSERY For Christmas trees and wreaths

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

Sharpham Road, Cheddar BS27 3DR 01934 742135

Make a wish

100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

Consult the local experts for all of your insurance requirements Contact: Chris Tony or Paul on 01934 742550 For all your insurance needs

aT the end of another busy summer, Cheddar Vale Lions Club members took on the annual task of emptying the Wishing Pool in Cheddar Gorge.

With the co-operation of Bristol Water, the coins were fished out of the pool and the surrounding waters in bucket loads, before being washed and sorted by the Lions. half of the money is given to Bristol Water in aid of their own charity, Water aid, and the remainder is used by Cheddar Lions to support their charitable work in the local community.

The total is expected to be £400-£500.

PERFECT PAVE

Bath Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3AA Tel: (01934) 742550 Fax: (01934) 744559 Email: quotes@woodburyinsurance.co.uk

Perfect Pave has extended the range of its block paving and other landscaping projects, which it supplies to both trade and public. It has an extensive range of Indian sandstone in smooth and natural varieties and new ranges of porcelain slabs in numerous colours and textures.

It also has a new line of dry stack walling. Contact James for details. e company has built an enviable reputation over the last 17 years and now has contracts all over the South West.

Now supplying – as well as installing – landscaping products to the commercial and domestic trade Wider range and cheaper prices than builders’ merchants or garden centres

Showroom open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri 8am-12noon Sat PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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Court House offers a home from home

CoUrT house is a beautiful home that offers high quality care in a very homely environment and has been ran by the same family for 33 years.

It is located just half a mile away from the famous Cheddar Gorge and set in the heart of the village with great shops and amenities such as cafes, hairdressers, bank, Post office, pub, library etc all of which are easily accessible.

They have 26 rooms, all with en-suite shower rooms, with a nurse call system, telephone and Wi-Fi access; some have a small kitchenette. residents are encouraged to take their own furniture to personalise their rooms, although furniture can be provided. dedicated and well-trained staff are on hand to help with all aspects of personal care. The skilled kitchen team offer a good range of nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day.

They have a wide range of interesting and creative daily activities including arts and craft sessions, cooking sessions,

seasons to GreetinGs ts en our resid ff a and st

pianist, Tracy’s famous afternoon teas and regular visits from the local preschool children who share fun projects with the residents.

Why not join them for a free trial day to experience life at Court house? You

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

can sample the cuisine and experience their daily activities with no obligation.

Ground Floor Courtyard and Cottage rooms are currently available so feel free to phone for a chat or arrange a visit.

COURT HOUSE

Ground floor & Courtyard rooms Currently available

e Care Home with a difference. We offer all that you would expect from a high quality, family run Care Home set in a Georgian House in the lovely village of Cheddar, Somerset.

You can live your life to the full and choice is our favourite word. Rooms now available with full en-suite facilities and total personal care is offered.

Rated by the CQC as good in all areas and outstanding for Care

The Manager – Chris Dando • 01934 742131 • chriscourthouse@gmail.com Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 61

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MENDIP TIMES

Supporting Cheddar Festive Night

FaCTorY Bargains are one of the sponsors this year of Cheddar Festive Night and their store in Saxon Place will stay open late to welcome revellers.

They will also have a stall in the market at Cliff Street car park, so pop along to see them there. The store, one of the biggest in Cheddar, has more Christmas goods in stock than ever before.

They also stock a huge range of furniture, clothing and household goods.

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

Tenth anniversary!

The home room is an independent interior furnishings company based in Cheddar, specialising in bespoke curtains, blinds and cushions, and also sell paint and fabrics by the metre. although a small company, they cover a wide range of products and services. ruth Bale started the company in december 2009 in axbridge, moving to Cheddar a year later to expand the shop, and this december they are celebrating their tenth birthday.

If you are looking for something specific, ruth and her team will do their upmost to provide the best service possible to find exactly what you are after, big or small.

Ruth and the team wish their customers a happy Christmas The Home Room Bath Street Cheddar Somerset BS27 3AA T: 01934 743004 E: thehomeroom@live.co.uk W: www.thehomeroom.co.uk

7, Cliff Street, Cheddar, BS27 3PT 01934 744333 info@atlasacc.co.uk www.atlasacc.co.uk

PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Atlas Accounting opens in Cheddar

aTLaS accounting Limited are a local accountancy practice based in Cheddar, having taken over from helen Bardle in June 2019.

Located at the same premises on Cliff Street, atlas accounting consists of Mark, hayley and robert.

It has been a busy few months since taking over the practice, getting to know clients and setting up software and systems. having now settled in, Mark, hayley and robert are looking forward to a busy festive (tax return!) season. atlas accounting provide a range of accounting and bookkeeping services to local businesses and the local community. Services are provided to sole traders, partnerships, limited companies and individuals.

They offer: annual accounts, tax returns, VaT returns, bookkeeping, payroll, company formations, business plans, management accounts and more.

Being a small practice, allows them to offer a personal and flexible service to meet the various requirements from each client. They say having a good accountant allows the client to focus on their business. For a free initial meeting, please contact atlas accounting.

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FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

We’ve got everything you need for Christmas: Lights, Gifts, Decorations, Clothing and much, much more!

FREE DELIVERY ON ALL FURNITURE WITHIN A 25 MILE RADIUS.

We’ve got it covered Mendip Times Distribution Points

= Mendip Times Distribution area

Mendip Times is available from over 900 outlets across the Mendips from superstores to village stores and post offices, farm shops, supermarkets, garden centres, pubs, inns, hotels and restaurants, doctors’ surgeries, libraries and tourist information centres.

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MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 63

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Remembering the Mitre Hotel

WELLS Civic Society has unveiled the latest in a series of blue plaques commemorating some of the city’s historical buildings and characters.

The Mitre Hotel, in Sadler Street, was one of the city’s most important posting inns with stabling for 100 horses and a history dating back to 1605 when it was known as the Flower de Luce.

Posting inns existed to provide horses for the Royal Mail.

Initially the posting inns or posting houses provided only horses, but the Royal Mail was changed in the late 1700s to use mail coaches.

When the trains arrived in Wells in 1859, the three major hotels, The Swan, Star Hotel and The Mitre all had coaches to ferry passengers to and from the three stations. The Mitre also had a parcel room in the Mitre Courtyard where the public could collect their parcels brought up from the stations by the Mitre coach.

In 1914 it became a private hotel owned by Frederic George, and later the building was bought by the Wicks family in about

The Mitre in Sadler Street; the stables are now home to a number of businesses, whilst the ground floor of the main building is now Minsky’s barber shop and hair salon

Society chair Chris Winter reveals the latest plaque with (l:r) Philip Welch, from the civic society, Celia and James Sheppard and former society chair Patrick Brown

1928, who owned the adjoining property and used the building as a furniture repository. It was later turned into retail units with flats above.

The building’s current owners, James and Celia Sheppard, who live in Wookey, attended the unveiling of the plaque. They ran Wells China and Glass from the ground floor for many years.

James, who originally came from Solihull, said: “I can remember coming to Wells on our way to Blue Anchor for family holidays and stopping at The Mitre; I never dreamed I would one day own it.”

Other plaques in Wells include a tribute to the cricket legend W.G. Grace, who once played a match on the Recreation Ground, film director Edgar Wright and local photographer Bert Phillips to The Rib next to Wells Cathedral and the site of Brine’s brush factory.

For details about the society, visit: www.wellscivicsociety.org.uk

New gritting fleet arrives

NINE new low-emission gritting lorries are set to keep roads safe and traffic moving across Bath and North East Somerset during freezing weather, thanks to investment from the council.

The authority has taken delivery of the state-of-the art vehicles, which are fitted with the latest Euro VI OBD-D rated engines. The vehicles have improved safety measures and are ‘all-wheel drive’ as well as having a GPS controlled automatic spreading system. All nine gritters have sophisticated mapping software – enabling the driver to cover any route in any vehicle, maximising the council’s flexibility to respond to bad weather. On board weighing means the gritters can measure and carry the optimum amount of road salt required to be spread for forecast conditions which saves time, fuel and reduces emissions.

PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Club seeks new home

SHEPTON Mallet Slot Car Club is searching for a new base after it received notice to leave the town’s leisure centre by the end of January. The club has built up a strong following of model racing fans since it began in September 2017. It prides itself on being open to all.

The club built its own track – which is modular – last year and has been holding meetings and competitions in the former bar of the leisure centre every Wednesday and occasional weekends.

SMSCC describes the sport as passive as opposed to an active one like football or tennis. People who are unable to take part in active sports through illness, injury, age or disability can race alongside others in a hugely competitive sport with many facets.

If anyone can help, contact the club via Facebook or www.sheptonslotcarclub.com

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A short-eared Christmas

THE incredible, and very nomadic, short-eared owl is a rare sight here in southern England, but if you are going to see them now is the time.

They breed almost exclusively on the vast upland moorlands of northern England and Scotland, only visiting the

By CHRIS south during the harsh winter months.

SPERRING Though some seem to stay on their MBE breeding grounds all year, most migrate southwards to open areas of moorland (including Blackdown and Priddy Mineries), marshland or saltmarsh, such as Bridgwater Bay. Also joining the UK population at this time of year will be birds of Scandinavian origin; again escaping the harsh winter conditions of their breeding grounds.

Short-eared owls measure around 38cm in length, but their relatively long wingspan of over 70cm (being birds of open country) makes them appear much larger when in flight. The two small ear tufts are raised and lowered to form part of the owls display, body language and camouflage, but have nothing to do with hearing.

They also give this owl a very unique look, which gives rise to one of the old northern names for this species “catty face”.

Unlike most nocturnal owls which have dark eyes to gather every bit of light available, the short-eared is largely diurnal and has distinct yellow eyes.

The favoured habitat of the short-eared owl is rough grassland where it can hunt the field voles which form a large proportion of its diet.

Being sandy brown in colour (males being lighter than females) short-eareds can sometimes be mistaken for barn owls from a distance, especially as they hunt in a very similar way; slowly flying across open grassland at around eight-ten feet from the ground, listening for rustles and squeaks from below; hovering to pinpoint the exact location of anything they hear, before diving with talons outstretched into the grass and grabbing the unsuspecting prey in powerful feet.

Short-eared owls are unique amongst British owls as they nest and roost on the ground, so require areas that are relatively free from disturbance from people, dogs and other predators; hence their preference for upland moors. They will stay with us until March, when they will return to their breeding grounds.

I have been told that this has been a good vole year in the north of the country, so we are expecting to see more

WILDLIFE short-eareds than usual this winter. Please let me know if you see one, or indeed if you see a barn owl, as we are collecting records for both in the hope that we can continue to protect areas that form important hunting areas for these threatened birds on Mendip.

As always, please let me know if you own any land within the Mendip area and would like me to visit to advise how to attract owls to your land, and to provide you with on-site information about nesting boxes nesting box.

Our free advisory visits are paid for through the Hawk and Owl Trust’s adopt-a-box scheme, where members of the public or indeed education establishments such as schools can adopt an already erected owl or bird of prey nesting box; as part of the adoption you get sent latest information about what’s going in in your adopted box and your money goes towards keeping our conservation effort going. To find out more go to https://hawkandowltrust.org/index.php/membership/adop t-a-box-membership Finally, I would like to wish all Mendip Times readers an amazing Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Make sure you get out there in the wilds and enjoy the wonderful countryside and wildlife of Mendip this festive season!

Rare sighting: December could be the time to see a short-eared owl

Chris Sperring MBE is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust.

Contact him on 07799413918 or Chris.Sperring@btinternet.com Or for the latest information on Chris’s walks and talks via Facebook @ChrisSperringWildlife

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 65

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MENDIP TIMES

A beautiful and historic winter walk

BEAUTIFUL Ashton Court Estate, owned

by Bristol City Council and much of the area planted by the great English landscape gardener Humphry Repton, is a supremely good choice for a short winter walk for all the family. The tracks I have chosen are largely hard and dry, ideal for easy walking and there are open views across country and over Bristol. Pass along the edge of the deer park with herds of fallow deer. Near the end go down through the red deer park and have the chance to go into the 16th century mansion of Ashton Court itself to the cafe and then

enjoy a fine view of the house and walk on through the 19th century gardens back to the start.

It’s an undulating walk, with an easy and fairly graded climb during the first half. Then you enjoy the views on top before you drop down. Dogs are welcome.

In the deer park they must be on a lead.

I was fairly ignorant about the extent and variety of the estate until I took part in a Macmillan walk for charity recently and I suspect quite a lot of you have never done much walking there either. No proper paths seem to be signed up for walkers.

You will find quite a few other people there especially on fine weekends but most of it is open access so people get spread out and thus it doesn’t seem at all over busy.

PARK: On the south side of the estate in Church Lodge car park, Ashton Road.

From the Weston direction on the A370 turn to the Park and Ride and then at the junction turn left towards Long Ashton and very shortly at the next junction go right towards Bristol. A few yards along, just before the Ashton pub, go left into the estate up to the long car park, £1.20 all day. The car park in winter is open to 5.15pm and later as the days grow longer.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

START: Walk up out of the car park.

Notice one of the turreted entrance lodges on the left. Turn right on the path and come up to a main drive and continue ahead ignoring side paths. Already you can see some of the glorious trees, many of them real veterans. Begin to climb gently.

1. JUNCTION Continue to the first main junction and go left. You may just glimpse part of the mansion ahead before you make the turn.

More of that later. There are good views on your left across south towards Dundry church. You can always walk on the grass at the side and this may be an advantage if there are a lot of cyclists around.

2. WOODLAND WALK At the next signpost, fork left joining a stony track signed as the Woodland Walk.

Pass alongside the deer park on your right.

In the woodland areas there may be some muddy patches. At the next junction, where you can see another entrance lodge gate, take the right fork, still following the deer park fence. Go into woodland. On the right reach an entrance to the deer park.

It is not always possible to go on this path because of rutting and so I am majoring on the other route which is always open. See below* if you can and want to take the deer park path.

Along here you will get some traffic noise from the road on the left. When you get very close to the road, turn up right following the red arrow “Runningengland” route and climb for a few minutes, going round a left and then a right bend in the woodland. Further up, ignore a track on the left, just continue on the red route and come up to where you see an open area ahead. Leave the track and cut across to the open.

3. OPEN AREA Go in and now go ahead bearing slightly

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WALKING

right across the grass. Further on you find you are paralleling the main track on your right. Another option is to join the track if you prefer. At the end of the grassy area come to a track ahead near the junction with the track you were paralleling. Now go over left to an information board about Justin’s Meadow, an unimproved meadow nature reserve alive with wild flowers in the spring and summer.

4. NATURE RESERVE Turn right through the meadow. There’s a carved wooden seat over left under a pine.

At the end of the reserve, leave through a gate and continue ahead on the grassland with a main track over on your right (you can join it now if you wish). This is a wonderful high open area with big skies and good views.

Pass a round wood on your left and soon, as you approach another wood ahead, make your way over to the right until you join the main stony track again and continue on this.

Spectacular views over Bristol and beyond begin to unfold. The route now begins to descend, past part of the Ashton Court golf course. Down below on your right is a wall of the mansion garden. Pass a pond on your right.

5. RED DEER PARK At a crossing of tracks, go straight on along a stony path which soon goes through a gate into the red deer park (dogs on leads). At a marker post take the right fork, dropping down. Woodland is over on your right. Pass a brick structure with pipe which I think is a small reservoir tank.

Soon reach a bench seat which is a spectacular viewpoint over Bristol.

Continue on the track passing a very venerable old oak on your right with an amazing girth just before you leave the deer park through a gate and continue

Le

3.7 miles, up to two hours walking.

OS Explorer Map 155 Bristol & Bath, grid ref: 557 713.

Postcode of car park BS41 9JH

down. At a slight left bend, take the footpath (grass and mud) on the right. This is a good short cut to the house, avoiding the car park. At the end, drop down left across to the mansion.

6. MANSION AND CAFE Go throuh the entrance to the courtyard and Courtyard Cafe (and toilets). Go back out the courtyard entrance and immediately right on a footpath signed to Bower Ashton. Follow this to the right alongside the metal fencing. After a few yards, at pillars ahead and a bench, go right through a gate and then left into the garden.

7. GARDENS The stony path takes you ahead with the house on your right. There is a ha-ha on the left but obviously it is hidden from

view! The estate dates back to the 14th century and for nearly 500 years belonged to the Smyth family. When the last of the Smyths to live there died in 1946 it was taken over by the council and it underwent a costly restoration. A familiar figure said to haunt the estate is the headless horseman, who rides around on moonlit nights, and grey ladies who are able to float through locked doors. There have also been whispers about phantom hounds in the grounds; perhaps this is connected to the dog graveyard which you will soon see.

Go down steps onto the Tree Walk with glorious redwoods here at the start. Very shortly, if you go over to the left a few yards across the grass, you will find a graveyard to the many canine companions of the Smyth family. The stones can get quite hidden when the grass is long.

Continue on the main path. Over right see the beautiful rose garden and continue on. You may spot in trees on the right a stone rounded ice house.

Leave the garden through another gate and turn left on the track. Then just carry on through woodland and bend right to join the main crossing drive where you were earlier. Turn left and retrace your steps back to Church Lodge car park. * Deer park route. If open, go through the gate right and up the path which climbs and then bends round eventually to reach a crossing track. Turn left through woodland until you reach the open area. Then go to the gate on the right into it and follow directions from 3. OPEN.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 67

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MENDIP TIMES

OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s diary

IS this really the Christmas edition?!

The time bandits must have been at work, because I cannot believe how fast the year has gone. My With LES only consolation is the DAVIES MBE shortest day will be on December 22nd as winter begins. From there on the evenings will start to get a little lighter, yet I have never felt that to be the case.

Holly berries, mistletoe, Christmas trees and tinsel are all part of the tradition we have grown up with. Log fires, candle-lit rooms, Christmas pudding and too much to eat are also part of that ideal winter celebration. We all love these things, even though we regret the over-indulgence afterwards.

Then there is the Christmas Day walk, when most of the family get out of the house either before Christmas lunch or after it. If you intend to take part in this, please ensure that you dress appropriately.

New clothes are a must and hats must be as outlandish as possible . . . new gloves and boots are an added extra and everyone, and I mean everyone, must stride with gusto and purpose to show just how much they are enjoying the outing. In truth it is an important part of the day! An outing with the family is something that doesn’t happen enough. After all how many times do we all get together through the year?

Christmas IS a time to over-indulge. It is a winter feast when our ancestors tried to blot out the bleak, cold weather.

Christianity gave it a new meaning which we still celebrate to this day, hoping that peace and goodwill will continue between all mankind.

Saving for this momentous event is also part of the Christmas tradition. The Christmas club was a working class institution where the family, or more likely the mother of the family, saved money with a local club or business, so as to have a good table at Christmas.

These schemes were often abused and tales of someone running off with all the Christmas club money were not unheard of. In fact I do believe it was Arthur Fowler from the BBC soap EastEnders who had it away on his toes (cor blimey guv) with everybody's savings in Albert Square one year.

Today we still have the same idea of saving with the supermarket loyalty card. I will leave the points on my card all year in order to reap the benefit at Christmas. Each year I eagerly present my scratched and battered loyalty card at the check-out, only to find I have the grand sum of about £10.

Well that’s better than nothing! So what has all this “twaddle” got to do with the countryside at Christmas, my critical readers will be asking? And the answer is “very little”. At Christmas people do things that they would not normally do, although my capacity for writing “twaddle”’ is a year-round occupation.

Schools will have parties and a jovial quiz. There will be the office party and the works Christmas lunch where ridiculous paper hats, whoopee whistles and confetti catapulting pyrotechnics are used in vast quantities. It is a time to relax from the yearly norm, perhaps a time to be a little more jovial.

My works Christmas lunch has already been arranged. A roast pork sandwich with sage and onion stuffing, extra fried onion, apple sauce and crackling has been booked at the Pit Stop sandwich van in Wells.

I am going to try my hand at cooking a bit of pork this year. My normal attempts to get that great crackling my mother and grandmother used to achieve, always end in disappointment. It comes out of the oven looking like an anaemic piece of vehicle tyre. Time for a more determined effort this time. After all I have finally cracked the secret of cooking sprouts . . . sorry, can’t tell you what it is!

In truth the old fashioned Christmas lunch is getting a make-over these days. I used to think that grilled sprouts were a bit of a joke, but no they do exist. My grandmother would have been shocked beyond belief by such a thing!

Her cooking was in the traditional vein and anything that deviated from it came under the heading of “Foreign-mucks-andmesses” which just like the Russians and their Sputnik would lead to the downfall of civilisation.

So what was the Christmas meal of my childhood? I will have shared this with you before, but please let me do so again. There was always ham boiled in a large pot on the Rayburn and then covered in bread crumbs when cool. This was intended for sandwiches and cold meat throughout the season, but began to be served for

breakfast as special treat, much to my grandfather’s delight.

Dinner (because there was no such thing as lunch then) started being cooked around 11am. It was a chicken, which itself was so special that it only featured on the Easter and Christmas table. This chicken was stuffed with breadcrumbs and thyme, the smell of which still takes me back across the years!

Potatoes were mashed and then there were the “magic” sprouts, with that irony taste and a texture that could be easily cut with the fork. Finally came the gravy made with the fat from the chicken. This was mixed with the water from the sprouts and plain flower stirred in to make just the most thick and wonderful sauce. Of course it was a little bit lumpy, but that didn’t matter.

My two children would later refer to this gravy my mother continued to make as “Gran's Mogadon Gravy” because they wanted to go to sleep after eating it! Never any drinks at the table, only after the meal and then that would be a cup of tea. The whole meal was ready by 1pm and all over by 2pm. A gargantuan feat of organisation that many still strive to achieve today.

There was no such thing as pudding and the word “dessert” was unheard of.

Christmas pudding, which had been made the year before, was served with custard and accompanied by bread and butter, which had to be eaten first, at tea time in the afternoon.

This wasn’t on the table until 6pm after grandfather had come in from milking.

There was no supper, only the three meals a day. Then it would be off to bed and Christmas was over for another year. It seemed like a lifetime before it would come again!

This month’s photo is where I shall be relaxing at the end of Christmas day – in front of my wood burning stove with a glass of “Summer Sunshine” from Australia.

Happy Christmas everyone!

You can always contact me through my website: Westcountryman.co.uk

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2019

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YEO VALLEY

YEO VALLEY EVENTS IN 2020 Demi Demo Days

Various Thursdays in 2020, 9.30am - 1.30pm.

Jan 23rd & 30th, Feb 6th, 13th & 20th, March 5th, 12th & 19th plus April 9th.

Spend a morning with our Chefs, sit back and relax whilst watching them create dishes to replicate back at home (all with a twist of Yeo).

Includes breakfast with coffee, and lunch using organic ingredients sourced in and around the valley.

Ages 12+ The themes for this year’s Demi Demo are…

January 2020 – Start as you mean to go on* Start as you mean to go on!!

Absolutely not a diet demo! Resolve to fuel your New Year fervour with energising, nourishing, wholesome fayre, to galvanise you for the year ahead. Go get ‘em tiger…

February 2020 – Ciao Bella… That’s amore* Embrace the season of amore with some proper Italian passion.

Appetisers to …whet your appetite, Pasta al forno…cation and puddings that leave you gasping for more … succulento!

March 2020 – Plenty more fish in the sea…* Baffled by a Bass, puzzled by a prawn, worried by whitebait, this is the demo for you.

Top ‘tips’ to make your fishy dishy.

April 2020 – Eggcetera, Eggcetera, Eggcetera* Think outside the egg box with our eggxtra ordinary, choc free eggstravaganza of a demo Eggs, you can’t beat them! (*subject to change)

Farm to Fridge Day

Tuesdays 10am – 4pm April 28th, May 5th, 12th & 19th, Jun 9th & 23rd, Jul 7th, 14th & 1st All things Yeo with a walk around our farm.

Meet the cows and hear how we went from a kitchen table business to family favourite brand. Don’t forget your wellies! Morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and garden entry included.

Ages 12+

A Day in our Organic Garden

10am – 4pm April 15th & 28th, May 5th, Jun 2nd & 9th, Jul 7th, 14th & 21st Go behind the scenes in our 6.5 acre garden, with a personal garden tour and time with the team on all things organic. Morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and garden entry included.

Ages 12+

For bookings and more events visit: yeovalley.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 69

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MENDIP TIMES

The magic of mistletoe

In the festive season this unassuming plant really takes centre stage. Our native mistletoe (Viscum album) is just one of nearly 1,500 species With MARY that live mainly in PAYNE MBE tropical and subtropical climates. Interestingly the mistletoe belongs to the Sandalwood family, a tropical species valued for the distinctive fragrance derived from its wood and oil that have been highly valued for centuries.

There are about 100 species native to Europe generally, but only one native to northern Europe. The plant is dioecious, bearing male and female flowers on separate plants. It is the female plants that bear the white berries.

It is a partial parasite that has green leaves, so is able to photosynthesise, but attaches itself to living trees by its rudimentary root system and absorbs water and some nutrients from its host.

Mistletoe can have a serious effect on its host plant in a number of ways, but primarily during dry summer spells it takes a considerable amount of water from the tree. Also, its evergreen foliage can grow into huge bunches and may cause problems of weight during winter gales.

The bunches can be reduced to alleviate these problems. It can be found on a wide range of host trees, but predominantly on apple, lime, poplar, ash, sycamore and hawthorn, but is rarely seen on oak. Host trees bearing mistletoe rarely grow in woodlands, preferring more open situations.

Although it can be found across the UK, the majority of populations occur in Wales, the West Midlands and southern England and can most frequently be found in Gwent, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Somerset. It was once thought that these populations were clustered around popular fruit growing areas, but this has since been disproved.

The answer is more associated with climate as it prefers low winter temperatures and high summer ones.

Mistletoe is spreading thanks to the numbers of blackcap birds from Germany that have started over-wintering here. The mistle thrush has always been associated with this plant and both these birds are very fond of the berries.

A number of myths associated with PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

trying to introduce and grow mistletoe persist: The seeds do not have to pass through the gut of a bird The seeds do not have to be placed under a flap of bark The seed does not have to be placed on the same host species Your best plan is to follow the example of the birds. They pick the berry and the seed in the centre is surrounded by a sticky substance that adheres to the bird’s beak, so the bird rubs its beak on the bark of the tree in an attempt to remove it. Thus, the seed sticks to the tree with its own glue.

The best time to attempt this is in the new Year using berries that are completely ripe and have turned slightly creamy yellow. Those picked and sold in bunches for decorations may not be fully developed. Attach the seed, using its own glue, to young thin bark rather than old fissured branches.

Do this many times for the greatest chance of success as some of your “planting” may be eaten. Grow kits are available online consisting of freshly picked ripe seeds, with instructions, and are despatched at the ideal time for good germination i.e. February to April.

Mistletoe is associated with many traditions and folklore. In Greek mythology it is believed to be the Golden Bough of Aeneas, ancestor of the Romans.

In the Middle Ages it was believed to have a number of magical properties such as keeping witches away and warding off evil.

It is often associated with paganism and is therefore banned from use in churches.

For Christmas decorations custom states that the mistletoe should not touch the ground between the time it is cut from the tree until it is removed at Candlemas.

Others say it should remain hanging in the house throughout the year to ward off lightning and fire but must be replaced each Christmas Eve. The custom of kissing under the mistletoe may have come from Scandinavia. Only the female plant with berries is used and one berry should be removed for every kiss! Let’s hope it is a good year for berries!

A less well-known fact is that mistletoe is the county flower of Herefordshire. This followed a poll in 2002 by Plantlife, the wildflower conservation charity, although Tenbury Wells in Worcestershire holds the title of “mistletoe capital” of the UK and held an annual mistletoe auction in the cattle market.

When this tradition was threatened by the loss of the market facility the townsfolk set up the Tenbury English Mistletoe Enterprise (TEME). The auctions are still held but at a local garden centre in late november and early December. Mistletoe can be ordered online from them.

This group also established national Mistletoe Day on December 1st every year.

This involved getting support for the idea from all major political parties in an early day motion in parliament – that’s quite rare these days! The Tenbury Mistletoe Association was set up in 2010 to help organise a Mistletoe Festival each year (this year on Dec 7th).

It is important to remember to ask permission from the landowner before you pick mistletoe and do not take too much.

Conservation of mistletoe is important and new colonies have been established in a number of parks and public sites including Kew Gardens, Chelsea Physic Garden and Lambeth Palace.

Happy Christmas!

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DECEMBER GARDEN TIPS

• All cut Christmas trees should be kept outside and have the trunk stood in water to ensure that the tree remains fresh until you take it inside. It is well worth cutting a little off the bottom of the trunk before standing it in water as it as the cut end often becomes “sealed”.

• Poinsettias need to be kept warm and out of draughts good for centrally heated homes. Water when the leaves start to wilt and the compost feels dry. Give them a good soak but never let them stand in water for long.

• Azaleas need lots of water, preferably rainwater. Cold tea once a month helps too! They will tolerate lower light and temperature levels. They will also tolerate draughts. Repot into lime-free compost in the spring.

• Water Cyclamen when leaves begin to wilt. Water from the bottom of the pot. Keep in a cool place with good light.

• Plant roses, fruit trees and bushes if the ground is not too wet or frozen.

• Dormant trees and shrubs can be moved now. Minimise root disturbance to increase chance of success and rapid re-establishment.

• Prune out old wood to rejuvenate shrubs. Wisteria pruning can be completed now along with vines.

• Fork over borders and dig some goodness back into the soil.

• Make sure fence posts and supports can withstand any winter storms.

CHRISTMAS TREES LOGS, CO AL FOR SALE AND GAS AVAILABLE

Nordman non-drop trees on sale from Saturday 30th November

Merry Christmas to all our customers old and new

GARDENING

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NURSERY

MASBURY, NR. WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 3HA TEL: 01749 841014 • FAX: 01749 841055

www.rockymountainnurseries.co.uk COME AND SEE OUR FINE RANGE OF HOUSE PLANTS, SHRUBS, PERENNIALS AND CLIMBERS Fresh Cut Christmas Trees from £15.00 – Pot Grown Christmas Trees from £3.50 – Lots of Christmas Plants & Gifts, AVAILABLE NOW

VISIT OUR MASBURYS CAFÉ – 01749 84115 Full menu of home cooked food available, 7 days a week Breakfast, Lunch & Afternoon Tea • Now serving Roast lunches every Sunday. Only £8.50 for 1 course or £10.00 for 2

See our website for more details: rockymountainnurseries.co.uk

ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 71

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MENDIP TIMES

NORTON GREEN GARDEN CENTRE

GARDENING

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:-

CUT CHRISTMAS TREES (available from end of November) POT PLANTS, HOLLY WREATHS, PLANTED ARRANGEMENTS & NATIONAL GARDEN GIFT VOUCHERS

WILD BIRD FOOD PEANUTS, MEALWORM TREATS, SUET & ENERGY BALLS, FEEDERS, NEST BOXES & BIRD TABLES EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS!

BE READY FOR THE COLD WEATHER! HARDWOOD & SOFTWOOD LOGS KINDLING, PARAFFIN & HORTICULTURAL FLEECE

WORKSHOPS/GARAGES

GARDEN SHEDS

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: info@timberworkbuildings.co.uk

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

EASY ACCESS, FREE & AMPLE PARKING FRIENDLY SERVICE, ADVICE & ASSISTANCE WELLS ROAD, CHILCOMPTON BA3 4RR Telephone: 01761 232137 www.nortongreencentre.co.uk Open: Mon to Sat 9.00am to 4.30pm Sunday 10.30am to 4.30pm

PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

Home & Kitchen ad.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 08:30 Page 1

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MENDIP TIMES

Christmas comes to Wrington

6

WrInGTOn'S Dickensian Christmas Fayre is being held on Friday, December 6th in the grounds of The Plough Inn on High Street.

It starts at 6.30pm with the lighting of the Christmas tree on the village green. It's held in the open but with canopied and floodlit festive stalls – some of which are new to the evening whilst other familiar ones will return.

On stage it's an evening of music and theatre including a brass band, Joyful Spirit and of course carol singing.

Organisers believe they have a good mix to provide the people of Wrington and surrounding areas with a fun and entertaining evening perfect to get Christmas started.

December

Wrington Motors – at your service

PAGEP??

AGE •M 74ENDIP • MENDIP TIMES TIMES • DECEMBER • DECEMBER 2011 2019

Many of us rely on our car to travel around the local area for work, shopping, taking the kids to school, going on holiday and lots of other uses. a modern car is a complicated piece of equipment and in order for it to continue to function in a safe and reliable manner it is important that it is correctly maintained by a suitably qualified technician using the correct equipment.

Wrington Motors are members of the Trust My Garage scheme which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute.

The technicians at Wrington Motors have many years’ experience and are qualified to MOT, service and repair your car or light commercial to a high standard. They have advanced diagnostic tools and a very well-equipped workshop. In addition, they have been trained to safely service and repair hybrid and full electric vehicles.

The service reception staff are also experienced technicians who are able to help you decide what type of repair or service you would like your vehicle to have. They are able to provide free itemised written estimates for the repair of your vehicle.

Many newer vehicles now have an online service record and Wrington Motors can update the details onto the manufacturer’s website.

Wrington Motors have manual and automatic loan cars and a loan van; they can also run you home, or collect and deliver your car locally.

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Looking to the future

FOCUS ON WRINGTON

MarIan Donovan has been in Wrington now for almost 14 years, doing sight tests and fitting contact lenses. She sees all age groups, from pre-school upwards. Free parking is usually available in Broad Street and appointments are readily available to suit most people.

She says statistics show that a surprising number of children would benefit from spectacles even though their vision appears alright.

Marian and Paula are at the practice Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9am–5.30pm and there is an answering machine for outof-hours calls, as well as the website.

AMORS

• Sight Tests • Glasses • Contact Lenses Home visits available by appointment

Orders for Christmas, bread, fresh vegetables, meats and small gifts Broad Street, Wrington

01934 862211

High Street, Wrington, North Somerset, BS40 5QA • Tel : 01934 862871 www.theploughatwrington.co.uk • eat@theploughwrington.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 75

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MENDIP TIMES

Find us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram

New salon in Wrington

THe Salon @ railway Wharf is a cosy new salon situated in the village of Wrington where the owners have worked for over ten years.

With a combined 30 years’ experience in the hair dressing industry Kimberley Hunt and emily Jones are very excited to begin their new venture together. The Salon @ railway Wharf is a newly-refurbished trendy hair salon which is suitable for all.

Kimberly began her career over 20 years ago in the village and her clients have followed her since. She has a wealth of knowledge from working in many different environments and with a wide range of clientele. emily completed her training in reflections academy in Bristol where she gained nVQ levels 2 and 3 qualifications. She specialises in blow drying and barbering; she will be holding a barber night every Thursday night from 5.30pm to 7.30pm with no appointment needed.

Caitlin Haskell will also be working at the salon. Kind and bubbly, she enjoys learning and is currently in the second year of her apprenticeship. emily, Kimberley and Caitlin would love to welcome you all to visit The Salon @ railway Wharf.

Creating a fabulous space just for you Contact Lynn on 07786 961695 or email her at Lynn.Riches@Horticolous.co.uk • www.horticolous.co.uk

PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

HOrTICOlOuS landscape & Garden Design projects range from small courtyard gardens, wildflower meadows, several acres of garden to large rural estates, from patios and planting designs to bespoke water features and natural swimming pools and they love them all.

These next few months are the time to think about what you would like to achieve from your garden and now is the perfect time for them to prepare your design ready to implement next year.

They consider themselves very lucky to be doing a job they love and are so passionate about and want to take this opportunity to thank clients, suppliers and colleagues alike that have all played a very important role in achieving the spectacular and very beautiful gardens and landscapes with them throughout the year.

They look forward to welcoming new clients ready for next year.

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FOCUS ON WRINGTON

Wrington remembers

GOLDEN LION WRINGTON Sam Glenn and the team look forward to welcoming you NEW – Spanish style Tapas food

C l w s a o q w p i d r c f c n p

COMING SOON – New Year refurbishment OPENING HOURS: Monday–Thurs 2-11pm • Friday 12am–midnight • Saturday 12-12pm • Sunday 12-11pm

TEL: (01934) 861189 • Email: rjsamglenn@gmail.com • www.goldenlion@wickwarbrewing.co.uk

Seat of power

Broad Street, Wrington, BS40 5LA

Serving cakes, coffee, teas, milkshakes and light lunches – Lots of interesting gifts and cards – Children’s clothing and toys – Pottery painting, decoupage and canvas bag painting – Catering for parties of all ages Open Tuesday to Friday 9.30am–5pm Saturday 10am–4pm

Find us on Facebook or call 01934 863889

t m e a m y

Mother Hen in Wrington has caused a stir with its window display depicting the Mother of Parliaments

MOTHER HEN COFFEE AND GIFTS

b d o

Zero Waste Pantry Inside Mother Hen, Broad Street, BS40 5LX

Plastic and packaging free shopping.

Bring a jar, bag or container and fill with only as much as you want from a range of dried fruits, grains, nuts, herbs and spices, oils, vinegars and cleaning products.

Why not come in for a visit to see what it’s all about

Open Thursday – Friday 9.30am-6pm, and Saturday 10am-4pm

Facebook @zerowastepantrywrington www.zerowastepantry.co.uk

Bennetts is a niche and boutique commercial law firm operating out of modern offices at Barley Wood Stables, Long Lane, Wrington.

Our lawyers combine specialist legal knowledge with broad practical experience.

We can be relied on to give clear and positive advice on a wide range of complex or routine matters whether preventative or remedial.

Bennetts Solicitors Attorneys & Notaries Barley Wood Stables, Long Lane, Wrington Bristol BS40 5SA Phone: (44) 1934 862786 • Fax: (44) 1934 862404 Webpage: www.bennettlaw.co.uk e-mail: info@bennettlaw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 77

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MENDIP TIMES

Born before Remembrance Day began

RON Stone was just a few days old when the first-ever Remembrance Day – known as The Great Silence – was held on November 11th, 1919.

This year, the Second World War Royal Marine Burma veteran played a significant role in the commemorations in Frome, reciting the words of a wartime song he used to sing and later breaking the two-minute silence with the Kohima Epitaph.

Hundreds of people took part in the service outside the town’s Memorial Theatre.

The laying of wreaths underway

Paulton

Banwell remembers

THERE was a big crowd in Banwell, where the parish council organised the planting of 18 trees to commemorate the fallen of WWI. A week later after the village’s Remembrance Day service a tree and memorial stone was unveiled, financed by the Kathleen Jones Family Charity.

PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Fellow Royal Marine Lt Cpl Ram Patten RM chats to Ron before the start of the service

Ivor Pickford, aged 97, a Normandy veteran

Brian Godden (left) and Tom Couch

Bugler Josh Scovell prepares to play The Last Post in front of a statue of First World War soldier Charlie Robbins

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Castle Cary and Ansford

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2019

Chilcompton

(Photos courtesy of Josh Mullinger)

The commemorations in both Castle Cary (above) and neighbouring Ansford were conducted by the vicar, the Rev Liz Mortimer

Yatton

Mary Burden

Phil Emery (left) and Jim Perkins, from Mendip Brass, sound the Last Post

A sombre moment for these youngsters

The service was led jointly by the Rev Esther Smith, rector of St Vigor and St John’s, and Fr Boniface Hill, the former priest in charge of St Aldhelm’s RC church, now closed

Jim Chiswell and Steve Hobden MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 79

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MENDIP TIMES

Somerset poppies returned to Wells

Members of the Royal British Legion admire a field of Somerset Poppies by St Andrew’s Well

THE Somerset Poppies – created last year by thousands of children from every school around Wells to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War – returned to the Bishop’s Palace for a period in November.

A total of 7,986 poppies were created under the guidance of teacher Dan Vidler. Each represented a serviceman from Somerset or who served in a Somerset regiment who lost his life during World War One. Around 6,000 went on display this year; the others were sold to raise money for armed forces charities.

Oakhill

Members of the First North Mendip Scout Group, which meets in Binegar, arrive at All Saint’s Church in Oakhill for a service led by the Rev Capt Richard Priestley

Pensford

A further 3,000 poppies were placed around the base of the south west bastion during the display in November

Clutton

Members of 1st Clutton Brownies (l to r) Amy, Tabitha and Izzy PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Parish chairman, Janette Stephenson, carrying the wreathe made by children at Pensford primary school

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Radstock

Members of the 1st Radstock Scout Group fall silent

Harrison Pritchard lays a wreath on behalf of the family beneath a plaque commemorating his father, Cpl Gordon Pritchard, who was killed in Iraq in 2006

Stoke St Michael

Louise Green and Keith Hambly stand next to a fused glass window made by young people in the village as part of a remembrance display collated for last year’s Armistice Day centenary and brought together for the first time in the village church.

The display also featured a tapestry showing the village during the First World War which it is hoped will go on permanent display in the church whilst the window is bound for the Memorial Hall. l Villager Alun Stewart carried the Shepton Mallet Royal British Legion standard during the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall.

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2019

Councillor Eleanor Jackson, chair of Bath and North East Somerset Council, lays a wreath on behalf of the authority

Standards are lowered for the two-minute silence

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 81

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MEnDIP TIMES

Queen’s award for Somerset Sight

Mendip volunteers with Liam Harkness at the front and Brian Perowne trustee behind him wearing a red tie!

SOMERSET Sight, which supports 3,500 people across Somerset, has held a series of meetings with volunteers to thank them for helping them win the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade for voluntary service in the UK. The Mendip meeting was held in Wells Town Hall and included Street and Glastonbury volunteers. Brian Perowne a trustee for Somerset Sight and a local resident thanked volunteer visitors for all their support and presented each of them with a personalised replica of the Queen’s Award.

Liam Harkness who lives in the Mendip area talked about his own sight loss since childhood and his previous careers in manufacturing and on the UK’s paralympic judo team during which time he travelled extensively across Europe.

He described the way in which his Somerset Sight volunteer enabled him to adapt to his total sight loss, go back to college and start running regularly.

Liam and his volunteer now run marathons together. He started work for Somerset Sight in 2018 offering emotional support to people whose sight has deteriorated, organising activities and offering specialist knowledge and advice on IT available for people with sight impairment.

Hospice services

WESTON Hospicecare will host three church services in Westonsuper-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea as part of its Light up a Life appeal.

The services will be illuminated by colourful lanterns which symbolise unique dedications made by families and friends of loved ones who have died.

There’s also a book of remembrance which will be present at all the ceremonies and will also be displayed at Jackson-Barstow House in Uphill from Wednesday, November 20th until midJanuary.

The Weston services will take place at St Paul’s Church next to Clarence Park on Monday, December 9th. The afternoon service starts at 3.30pm and the evening service begins at 7.30pm.

The third ceremony will take place at Burnham-on-Sea Methodist Church on Wednesday, December 11th at 7pm.

Event manager Grace Dibden said: “All services will be led by hospice chaplain Karen Murphy who I know has helped so many over the years and every dedication will be read out by our nurses, staff and volunteers.”

Those wishing to make a dedication can pick up a Light up a Life leaflet from Jackson-Barstow House and the charity’s shops or by calling 01934 423900.

Event was a boost for PROMISEworks

Details: call 01823 333818 01643 842972 or email claire.packwood@somersetsight.org.uk

Barrowloads of fun in prospect

FUNDRAISERS in Binegar and Gurney Slade are inviting teams to enter a wheelbarrow race around the villages on Friday, December 27th.

BAGS holds regular community events in the area supporting local charities, the church and village hall. The race – starting at 2.30pm – will raise funds for The Mendip School.

They are looking for teams of four to take part with prizes for the best fancy dress, best Santa scarecrow, best children’s team and fastest team. Steve Rawlings, one of the organisers, said: “We are hoping that the run might become an annual festive event in the local calendar. This is not exclusively for the residents of Gurney Slade and Binegar. We are hoping to attract teams from the wider community.”

For details, contact Steve on 07528 169533

PAgE 82 • MEnDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

PROMISEworks chair Robert Peto and PROMISEworks support officer Ali Hart welcoming Deputy Lieutenant John Laycock and his wife Johanna

PROMISEworks, a Somerset-wide charity which finds, trains and supports volunteer mentors to work one-to-one with disadvantaged local children and young people has benefited by more than £10,500 from a fundraising night at Yeo Valley Canteen.

PROMISEworks chairman Rob Peto, from Baltonsborough, said: "A fantastic evening which could not have happened without the generous and innovative offer from Yeo Valley to support local charities by offering its HQ canteen with a meal for 100 guests.

“PROMISEworks is tremendously grateful to all who gave us products, prizes and donations to help spread the word about how we are helping disadvantaged youngsters from across Somerset build a life that works for them."

For details, visit: www.promiseworks.org.uk

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CHARITIES

Bikers support air ambulance WELLS Classic Motorcycle Club made a donation of £3,800 to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance during its 19th annual meeting at the Britannia Inn, Wells.

The money was raised by its ninth annual Tortoise and Hare Run, which attracts entrants from all over the country on motorcycles and scooters of all ages.

Total donations to the air ambulance have now reached £24,600. Next year’s event on Sunday, June 7th will celebrate its tenth anniversary.

Details: www.wellsclassicmoto tenthrcycleclub.co.uk

Hospice launches body and home fragrance range

DOROTHY House Hospice Care has joined forces with a number of locally-based ethical producers to launch its own brand of body and home fragrance products with all profits going to the charity.

Under the name Ubiety, sales will help fund end of life care to a growing number of patients with a life-liming illness, as well as supporting their families and carers.

The Ubiety range is a collaborative endeavour led by the business development team at Dorothy House, based at Winsley, working with local partners from Bath and the surrounding areas.

Ubiety’s collection includes a hand wash, hand lotion, body salve, lip balm, facial mist, essential oil fragranced candles and reed diffusers.

Lou Madel, from the team, said: “Our partner organisations have a strong sense of community and have generously given their time, expertise and resources to help us develop Ubiety for the benefit of Dorothy House Hospice Care.

“They are organisations who share our values for individual, nurturing care and who put people and our environment at the centre of what they do.”

For details, visit: www.findUbiety.com

Window on Wells

WELLS pom-pom dancer Tina Blackwill is holding the prestigious Wells Festive Windows competition once again.

She held the popular fundraising event last year, won by Rock House Dental Practice, raising money for St Margaret’s Hospice.

It costs £10 to enter and the winning window will receive a £100 Christmas hamper from Chew Valley Dairy.

Tina said: "I couldn't believe the standard of all the entries last year. Everybody put so much effort into their festive displays it made it really hard to pick a winner!"

Men march for Weston Hospicecare

WESTON Hospicecare’s Men’s March will make a welcome return to the charity’s fundraising event calendar in 2020 and supporters can now register to take part.

It’s set for Saturday, March 14th and will be sponsored by cider makers Thatchers.

The beautiful ten-mile walk will mirror the route of 2019’s event by starting at the Grand Pier and following the glorious Weston to Sand Point coastline before returning to the pier.

Walkers will receive a tasty pasty, a cold thirst-quenching pint of Thatchers Gold and a chance to catch decisive Six Nations rugby action as England take on Italy at the climax of the tournament.

A limited number of early bird tickets are now available on the hospice’s website. Adult tickets cost £15 and child tickets cost £10 before prices increase.

The hospice’s events manager Grace Dibden said: “An incredible number of men took part last year which led to a light-hearted atmosphere and we cannot wait for even more people to come and enjoy the fun.”

Details: 01934 423900 email grace.dibden@westonhospicecare.org.uk www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/mensmarch

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 83

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MENDIP TIMES

Crash victim says thank you

A MOTHER whose husband died in a motorway crash has presented a cheque to the South Western Ambulance Charity after raising thousands of pounds in his memory.

Ceri and Rod Walsh, from Cheddar in Somerset, were involved in a multiCeri, Rod and their children Thomas and vehicle collision on Carys the M5 near Taunton in September 2018. Ceri sustained serious injuries in the crash and doctors feared she would not be able to walk again.

But a year later Ceri defied expectations to complete a 10km run with their children Thomas, 14, and Carys, 11, and many other family members and friends.

Ceri handed-over a cheque for £6,387.75 to South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) staff on

behalf of the charity at Taunton Ambulance Station. She said she was “blown away” by the amount raised.

Ceri said: “I’ve been through a rollercoaster of emotions during the past year. But once I realised I was going to survive, I wanted to do something for the people who responded to the incident.

“The ambulance service deals with incidents that no human being would want to witness. They work professionally to maintain life at the worst possible time. Without the ambulance service my two wonderful children would be living without their mum.”

Two of Ceri’s colleagues also raised more than £2,500 from a skydive in March.

Zoe Later, head of South Western Ambulance Charity, said: “We are so grateful to Ceri, her family, friends and colleagues for their incredible fundraising for the South Western Ambulance Charity.”

Rod was a committed member of the parish church in Cheddar and had been an NHS worker for almost 40 years. Ceri has worked as a NHS nurse for more than 30 years.

South Western Ambulance Charity uses gifted monies to benefit those in our communities who use our service, and to improve the welfare of SWASFT staff and volunteers. At Ceri’s request, the funds she raised will be used specifically to support the staff of ambulance stations in Somerset.

Ceri presenting her fundraising cheque to head of the South Western Ambulance Charity, Zoe Larter

Ceri with family members and friends at the Swansea 10km

To raise money for South Western Ambulance Charity, please email charity@swast.nhs.uk or call 0300 369 0108.To donate visit: http://www.swambulancecharity.org/donate

Appeal for volunteers

MARIE Curie is appealing for local volunteers to help raise funds to support people and their families living with a terminal illness in Somerset.

Sue Golden, a former Marie Curie Nurse from Bridgwater, has been volunteering as secretary of the Bridgwater Marie Curie fundraising group for five years.

She said: “I chose to volunteer for Marie Curie because I know so many people locally who have received care and support and I wanted to help make sure that the service is there for others in the future.

“Not only is it extremely rewarding, it’s lovely belonging to a friendly and supportive group. We have a lot of fun, we hold social events including a Christmas meal and summer BBQ and

it’s a great way to meet new people.”

Riona Houghton, Marie Curie community fundraiser for Somerset and North Devon said: “Without our amazing volunteers we could not support as many people with a terminal illness and their families as we do.

“Currently we have over 7,200 volunteers across the UK in community fundraising and retail, but we are always looking for extra help. The more volunteers we have, the more we can achieve.

“Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or a newcomer looking to get involved for the first time, we would love to hear from you. No amount of time is too little, even an hour at a collection would be a huge help to our team.”

Details: Riona Houghton 0117 9420429 or Riona.houghton@mariecurie.org.uk

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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CHARITIES

Van’s the plan, thanks to donation

THE Children’s World charity, based in Glastonbury, says it is thrilled to have been awarded £7,500 by the Morrisons Foundation towards the cost of buying a new van.

Children's World supports inclusion for all children through drama, performance, filmmaking and fun. Director, Kristen Lindop, said: "Our new van will be used to transport materials and specialist equipment, such as our interactive floor, and staff to schools, special schools, youth organisations and community

Parachute fun is just one of the activities Children’s World can offer

events.

“The van will make sure we can get ourselves and all we need to where we can support children, their families and

Golf club raises £8,000

their communities. We'd also like to thank the supportive staff at Spark Somerset for their help and guidance in finding this funding."

PEOPLE with Alzheimer’s and their families in North Somerset will benefit from a donation of almost £8,200 from the 2018/19 captains of Mendip Springs Golf Club.

Club captain Martin Yates is a volunteer worker for the society and both ladies captain Sarah Nancholas and seniors captain Andy Ashford were happy to join him and pool their efforts in his choice of charity for the season.

(L:r) Martin Yates, club captain, Andy Ashford, seniors captain, Sarah Nancholas, ladies captain with Sian Johnson, community fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society

And the answer is . . .

David Seviour (second from right), from DJS Wealth Adviser, presents the cheque to SWALLOW user Dan Bates watched by (l:r) fellow user Aimee Sparks, Elaine Seviour, from DJS, SWALLOW chief executive Bev Craney and Lisa Thorne, also from DJS

A CHEQUE for more than £1,000 has been presented to the Midsomer Norton-based charity SWALLOW after a successful quiz night at the Centurion Hotel.

More than 100 people attended the evening, with 17 teams taking part. SWALLOW is a user-led charity which supports teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. The evening was organised by locally-based DJS Wealth Adviser, partner practice of St James’s Place Wealth Management.

Bev Craney, SWALLOW chief executive, said: “We are so grateful for the hard work that went into this event, it was a fab evening and raised an amazing amount of money for SWALLOW!”

SWALLOW user Aimee Sparks displays the quiz night cheque, flanked by fellow user Dan Bates (left) and David Seviour, from DJS Wealth Adviser

For details about SWALLOW, visit: www.swallowcharity.org or their Facebook page www.facebook.com/SWALLOWCharity/

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 85

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MENDIP TIMES

Yeo Valley supports charity dinners

YEO Valley in Blagdon is opening its doors once again for local charities to host a fundraising evening in their awardwinning canteen next year.

The use of the stunning venue overlooking Blagdon lake, a three-course menu and service are donated by Yeo Valley. The event can be run however the charity chooses.

Yeo Valley’s charity initiative has already helped organisations including Children’s Hospice South West, Avon Wildlife Trust, Churchill Preschool and The Sustainable Soils Alliance to raise a total of over £60,000 in 2019.

It recently hosted a dinner for 100 guests for Farmlink, the local charity devoted to introducing children to the countryside.

Farmer and after-dinner speaker Peter Slack was guest speaker, with Richard Nancekivell from David James auctioneer.

Spokesman, Tim Ledbury, said: “Not only did the event raise over £11,000 on the night for the charity, it increased the awareness of Farmlink and its activities which has led to several conversations about how Farmlink can work with other organisations in the future.

“In short the evening exceeded all my expectations. The organisation and running of the event was made very easy by the fantastic staff at Yeo Valley. Many thanks to all those involved.”

Adrian Carne from Yeo Valley said: “This initiative is our way of supporting our local communities and the things they care about. We have hosted some wonderful evenings here in 2019 which have helped some great charities.”

Masons help Macmillan

DURING his year as Worshipful Master of Wraxall Lodge, Nailsea, Ray Beckingham was able to raise funds for several charities, including Macmillan Cancer support.

Ray is pictured presenting a cheque for £1,250 to Genevieve Drinkwater, senior fundraising manager for the charity area, accompanied by Gillian Robinson a volunteer for 14 years at the support unit at Weston General hospital. The donation will support a nurse for one week.

Supporting the lifeboats

THE Chew Valley RNLI fundraising branch’s annual curry lunch in Ubley village half was a great success attended by 120 supporters, raising £2,258 for the lifeboat charity. The group is keen to welcome new members, whether as supporters or as committee members.

Details: Secretary Tim Gracey 01275 854623 or 07464 963435 or e-mail tandbgracey@gmail.com

Adrian Carne

Father Christmas is coming

Details: yeovalley.co.uk

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

YEO Valley Lions, who serve the villages around the Yatton, Congresbury and Wrington area, will be joined by Father Christmas on their carol float charity appeal. He will be out with the Lions every day in December.

Calendar is a credit to the Glastonbury community

(Photograph courtesy of John Samuels)

SHOP and café workers in Glastonbury have bared all – almost – for a unique calendar being sold in aid of Cancer Research UK. It was the idea of CRUK shop manager Maria Gregg, who last year persuaded men in the town to pose; it’s thought to be the only CRUK shop in the United Kingdom to have come up with the Calender Girls-style idea.

The calendar features mostly women who have all been affected by cancer in some way, either personally or by a close relative or friend suffering from the disease. They also contributed to a page of “thought bubbles” about their experiences.

Maria said: “We had a staggering response this year of women who wanted to feature in the calendar for this reason.

“There is an enormous amount of goodwill and camaraderie across local businesses here. Personally, I believe the fact we have so many independent traders is what makes Glastonbury so unique and successful.”

Freelance photographer and cameraman John Samuels had the job to capture the majority of the images for all the months of the year across a tight schedule of bookings during this July’s heatwave. He said: “It was an honour to photograph the women for this calendar who wanted to show to the world the strength they had in fighting this cruel disease.”

Kirsten Kaluzynski, responsible for the artistic direction, said: “I don’t think John and I laughed as much as we did in those four days! All our ‘models’ were wonderfully adaptable and such fun to work with. What struck me most however was how deeply sensitive and mindful the women were about exposing themselves

Heidi Loughlin, from Portishead, on Glastonbury Tor. Heidi’s story about battling breast cancer has been featured in newspapers and on television

CHARITIES

Glastonbury Co-op staff Sam Smith, Cath Sims, Jennifer Smith and Julie Fay

semi-naked as opposed to the men of last year who seemed happy to just drop their trousers. Working with them in this intimate way one couldn’t help but be open to listen as they shared their personal stories.

“One woman told me what helped her most on her journey with cancer was her dog “…because you can tell your dog anything which you can’t necessarily tell an adult”. l Calendars costing £5 and sponsored by St Andrew’s Press in Wells are available from the CRUK shop in Glastonbury High Street and various other outlets which took part in the photo shoots.

Kirsten Kaluzynski (left) with some of the team in the CRUK shop in Glastonbury: Mandy Callow, Jane High and manager Maria Gregg

Finals beckon for manager of service veterans’ hotel

THE manager of a hotel in Westonsuper-Mare for RAF veterans and their partners has made the final of a national care award.

Nick Rickwood, manager of the Royal Air Forces Association’s Flowerdown House, was nominated for the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards’ Leadership Award. He is one of three finalists for the award, which recognises achievements of individuals, care providers and community groups within the care sector.

Nick said: “It’s a real privilege to have made the shortlist of these awards.

My staff and I work tirelessly to make sure Flowerdown House is a place where veterans feel comfortable and at home when they visit us on a holiday break.

“The needs of our guests, which can include anyone who has served in the RAF and their immediate families, are varied and we are always looking to improve our services or bring in external partners to facilitate these needs.”

The RAF Association supports the welfare of RAF personnel, veterans and their families. Flowerdown House can accommodate up to 35 guests in 18 single, double and twin rooms. l The winners will be announced at an award ceremony presented by Rebecca Wilcox and Dame Esther Rantzen on Friday, December 6th at the London Marriott Hotel. For details about Flowerdown House, visit: https://www.rafa.org.uk/wingsbreaks/flo werdown-house/

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 87

(Photograph courtesy of John Samuels)

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MENDIP TIMES

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MOTORING

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Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 89

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MENDIP TIMES

Cookswood’s award-winning developments

COOKSWOOD are delighted to announce they have won in two categories at the 2019 International Property Awards being named Best Leisure Development UK and Best Development Somerset.

Cookswood is a collection of sustainably built holiday homes, some situated lakeside and others within woodland glades.

Cookswood will have so much to offer, including many wonderful facilities and activities, with something to keep the whole family entertained. This includes a luxury spa with an

Selwood Garden Village ‘Initial Vision’ Public Exhibition We would like to share our ideas for the emerging proposals for a strategic scale and well-connected new community south of Frome, which will provide a mix of both open market and affordable housing, employment land and a new local centre that will contain a variety of community facilities. This will be the first opportunity for the local community to input into the emerging proposals for the site.

Venue: Rook Lane Chapel, Frome, BA11 1DN Date: Monday 9 December 2019 between 14:00 and 20:00 Our Technical Consultant Team will be available to answer questions during this period.

If you cannot make it on this date, the exhibition boards will be available to view at Rook Lane Chapel on Tuesday 10 December (between 14:00 and 20:00) and on Saturday 14 December (between 11:00 and 15:00) with instructions as to how you can get involved in the consultation process.

PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

indoor pool and fitness suite, farm shop and cafe, stables, a golf course and a restaurant and bar for fine dining.

Children will be entertained with the kids’ club, woodland play areas and endless outdoor pursuits. The mineral lake and beach areas will offer breathtaking views and activities such as swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding.

You are able to choose your desired freehold plot on the site and preferred design from their selection of modern and traditional styles. Customers also have the opportunity to work with their talented design and build team to make the interior of their property bespoke to suit their individual taste and personal requirements.

With staycations on the rise in the UK, a Cookswood property is also an excellent investment opportunity, as owners are able to rent out their holiday home, enabling a healthy return on their investment.

Property section.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 08:15 Page 91

PROPERTY

Will there be a bounce in the market in the New Year?

KILLENS are regulated by the RICS, the professionals of the property world. Tom Killen looks at the latest RICS view on the housing market.

A snapshot from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors issued in mid-November confirmed that the housing market has become entrenched in a “holding pattern” thanks to Brexit and the General Election, with no relief expected until next year.

The RICS reported that new buyer enquiries, sales and new instructions are all still muted while house price growth has held steady with a 1.3% increase over the year. Across the UK as a whole, enquiries from new buyers fell for the second month in succession with newly agreed sales continued to slip in almost every area of the UK apart from Northern Ireland, where a marginal increase was seen.

As widely reported, prices have been supported by a shortage of supply. New instructions fell for the fourth consecutive month at a national level with the number of market appraisals undertaken being at its lowest level since 2017.

Whilst the RICS says house prices may be under pressure in the short term, most agents expect more buoyancy in the New Year as political and economic uncertainty hopefully drops away. Until then, however, it appears unlikely that these trends will pick-up to any meaningful extent over the

Yew Tree Farm Polsham is on the market through the Wells office of Killens with a guide price of £1million

remainder of this year.

On the lettings side, however, the picture remains very different with tenant demand gathering momentum over recent months. This is due to a shortage of rental properties and this is likely to squeeze the pace of rental growth higher going forward.

Buying or selling at a time when less people are can generate rewards! For a free market appraisal contact the nearest office of Killens. We now display our properties on Rightmove, Zoopla and On the Market ensuring they are put in front of 100% of potential buyers – is your current agent doing the same?

Details: info@fromeareaclt.org or call Roger Saunders 07910 838452 or Peter Nowson 07833 990053

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 91

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MENDIP TIMES

Natural therapy

HyPNoTHerAPy is a wonderful natural form of therapy, says Cherry reynolds of Hypnotherapy Naturally, involving deep relaxation whilst re-programming of the subconscious mind takes place. she says it helps people to make desired changes to negative habits and behaviours and has a positive impact on their lives. she said: “If you are struggling and would like to know more about how hypnotherapy can help you, or if you have a busy and stressful life and would like to make time just for yourself by enjoying a session of deep relaxation to de-stress, re-focus and relax, then please contact me.”

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Loch Fyne smokehouse stockist.

Northern water and Continental seafood specialists.

Fruit and vegetables personally selected at market, exotics and the unusual, fresh herbs and the best local produce. selection of culinary ingredients.

Open all day Tuesday to Friday plus Monday and Saturday mornings.

5 The Borough Mall, The Borough Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB Tel: 01934 710318

Christmas in Wedmore

11

December

weDMore will start its Christmas celebrations on wednesday, December 11th, with wedmore by Lamplight.

The evening will start with a crib service in st. Mary’s Church at 6pm followed by traditional carol singing around the Christmas tree in the churchyard accompanied by the Kings of wessex Brass Band.

The Borough will be closed to traffic between 5.309pm and businesses throughout the village will be open for late night shoppers.

Father Christmas and live reindeer will make an appearance and there will be other entertainment, hog roasts and festive food and drink on offer.

More choice at Prowse

Prowse Antiques and Interiors in wedmore have been busy expanding, with more items on show than ever before.

Their display cabinets have antiques and collectables from a variety of dealers hand-picked by Martin and rachel. They are also happy to buy goods for sale. since joining forces with Coffee, Cake and Curtains next door, you can enjoy a lovely afternoon tea in The Treasure Chest Tea shop while browsing through the cabinets.

They will have mince pies and other Christmas treats for wedmore by Lamplight, so why not pop by to say hello.

Our new venture . . . come to see our new cabinets hosting handpicked antique and vintage dealers in The Treasure Chest Tea Room, just next door to us.

WE WILL BE OPEN FOR WEDMORE BY LAMPLIGHT

If you have any questions, find us on Facebook – Prowse Antiques and Interiors or call us on 01934 712453 or 07860 837 680 PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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Wedmore’s hair and beauty specialists

FOCUS ON WEDMORE

sHAroN Lewis and her sister Becky Fowler have seen their business in wedmore expand considerably in the last year. sharon has been in charge of essence Hairdressing for seven years now in King Alfred Mews, while Becky runs essence Beauty nearby.

The decision by roderick Thomas estate agents to close their office gave essence Beauty the chance to more than double its space by knocking a hole through the wall from their small salon.

It meant an extra treatment room and laundry room could be added, as well as providing far more space for the services they offer.

These include nails, manicures, pedicures, waxing, massage, facials, tanning, eyelash extensions and specialist make-up.

The sisters even have a small van to take their services out to customers’ homes or other venues.

They are going to be busy for wedmore by Lamplight, hosting reindeer, which children will be able to feed.

It’s going to be the start of a santa trail around the village, which includes a face painter and story-teller before children get to meet santa.

Becky said: “we were so cramped before. The expansion has been brilliant, really good. It also means we have space to bring in specialists if we need to.”

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 93

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MENDIP TIMES

The Swan in Wedmore wins Gold

GooD news at The swan in wedmore. They have been awarded Gold in this year’s prestigious Taste of the west Awards, the second time of receiving this accolade. Also, The swan is a finalist for Pub of the year at the forthcoming Bristol, Bath and somerset awards, the winner being revealed at the end of this month.

The bustling pub is at the heart of lovely wedmore and has cosy corners, stone-flagged floors, leather sofas and wood burners. Delicious food focusing on local produce is courtesy of head chef, sam sperring-Trendl, and executive chef, Tom

PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Blake, formerly head chef at river Cottage.

The meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, eggs, cheeses and yoghurts, all come from named local suppliers and there’s a wide range of local ciders, real ales, and gins.

A Christmas party at The swan is highly recommended. with three festive feasting menus, a good range of vegan and vegetarian options and a fun sharing Menu, it’s the perfect place to celebrate.

If you’re a large group of 20 people or more, then opt for your own exclusive party in The Club room. Pop in during wedmore by Lamplight, wednesday, December 11th, for a warming seat by the fire and a boozy hot chocolate or a mulled cider.

Dogs, muddy boots, and children are always welcome.

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The great Wedmore bake-off! suNFLower Bakery is based in the grounds of the George Inn, wedmore and specialises in cake classes, creative workshops, private tuition and cake supplies.

Their beautiful space, recently enlarged, offers students an opportunity to learn from the best designers in the industry. since opening their doors in 2017, they have been lucky enough to welcome both tutors and students from around the world, many of whom are now firm friends.

The studio is the perfect space for students to relax and learn an exciting new skill in a beautiful and calming atmosphere. Their professional workshops can range from an evening, one day to week-long masterclasses and you will learn everything you need to create your very own masterpiece.

In January they will be launching a brand new range of cake decorating workshops for beginners and intermediate students, including

FOCUS ON WEDMORE

ganache, cupcakes, cookies and macaron workshops. Their new classes will be smaller to ensure students feel comfortable in learning a new skill, which they know you will love and want to practice as soon as you get home. shop Now open! They now have a wide range of cake decorating supplies for all your cake decorating essentials, so pop in and take a look.

Their online store will be live in January 2020 and customers will have the opportunity to click and collect from their shop and they can order in anything you need. with the new classroom space, comes more excitement, with a range of creative workshops being added to their programme. They have guest tutors who will teach the art of photography, water colour, calligraphy, bread making, floristry and sewing as well as all things cake!

They are introducing their new range of workshops by offering taster sessions, the perfect way to start

learning a new skill and great way to spend a few hours with a friend too with a glass of mulled wine to get into the Christmas spirit! Take a look at their website for details.

• Cake Classes • Creative Workshops • Private Tuition • Cake Supplies Sunflower Bakery, The Stables, George Inn, Church Street, Wedmore BS28 4AB www.sunflower-bakery.com kelly@sunflower-bakery.com 07883 400765 MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 95

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MENDIP TIMES

Barber shop in harmony with village

sINCe opening in March, Tidboald Blythe – The Barber Company, has settled into wedmore life with great success. They have received a warm welcome from the village with a steady flow of customers from both wedmore and the surrounding area.

Next year, appointment-based bookings are going to be introduced as well as the current walk-in service. This will further add to the personal style of barbering that is on offer at Tidboald Blythe.

Both stephanie and her partner Harry understand the importance of quality, comfort and privacy for all customers which can be reflected in the layout of the shop itself. stephanie is a passionate and experienced barber who has worked in both the hairdressing and barber industry for many years.

This has enabled her to gain the skills and knowledge to provide the quality and range of services offered at Tidboald Blythe. she said: "Being in wedmore and getting to know all of my new customers has made me love my job even more so. wedmore has an amazing community and I would like to thank everyone for the support we have received!"

Details: Please visit their Facebook page

FOCUS ON WEDMORE

Time for the Turnip

FINAL judging for wedmore’s famous Turnip Prize will take place at The New Inn, wedmore on Tuesday, December 3rd at 6.30pm. The Turner prize parody rewards artists who make the least effort. Last year’s winner, Collywobbles, showed a model of a dog balancing on jelly.

Open gardens

GArDeNers in wedmore are being invited to open their gardens in aid of weston HospiceCare on June 6th next year, 10am-4pm. Teas and coffees will be provided by the wedmore Friends of weston HospiceCare at the bowls club.

If you would like to take part call shirley wederell 01934 712089 or Trish Newell 01934 713117.

We are happy to announce that due to increased demand, Pumpkin Delicatessen and Café is being extended in the New Year to create more seating in a light and bright conservatory.

WEDMORE POST OFFICE THE BOROUGH MALL BS28 4EB

l Extensive range of quality greetings cards l Stationery and office supplies l Euros and dollars in stock l Agents for Johnsons dry cleaners

01934 713782

See our selection of beautiful Christmas goodies Bronze and Traditional Turkeys All types of poultry, meats, games and Christmas Fayre

Orders taken for Christmas now!!

Orders, telephone or email:– 01934 712384 Shop Alan, James and Mike would like to thank all our customers who have supported us through 2019

PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Call in for mulled cider during Wedmore by Lamplight Open: Monday-Saturday 8.30am-5.00pm

01934 713289 www.pumpkinwedmore.co.uk andrea@pumpkinwedmore.co.uk 1 The Borough Mall, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB

Health section.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 07:56 Page 97

Plop the Raindrop

I EXPECT you got wet on bonfire night – but I had a ride on a rocket! It’s been a very wet month, which suits me brilliantly but I’m afraid probably doesn’t suit you so well.

I remember lots of smiling faces watching as someone lit the fuse and I got a bit of a shock as my rocket raced into the air. I’m more used to falling from the sky, not being shot up into it.

It was quite a short trip then I joined all of my watery friends, cascading back down to earth, where lots of people were getting soaked.

That’s why I was on the rocket in the first place. For a water droplet like me, falling down to the earth always causes a bit of trepidation and a bit of excitement. Do you feel a bit like that when you slide or ride or ski downhill?

I feel much more comfortable floating around in a cloud. I’m thinking, what will I land on? Where will I go? Why am I wobbling nervously like a jelly?

I’m a bit silly really, because I’m basically indestructible. Even if I’d landed on the bonfire I’d have turned to steam and floated back up into the sky.

As it was I landed on a blade of glass, glinting in the firelight, listening to the squeals and laughter of children, as more fireworks were let off.

It’s interesting how human beans like things that flash and go bang.

But there are lots of places in the world where it’s not fun at all; places where people keep fighting each other.

Did you know that bonfire night commemorates an attempt by a man called Guy Fawkes to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605? Will you humans ever learn? At that time I was on a boat full of people sailing round the world – and they found Australia.

Normally we water droplets lead a fairly boring life, sitting in seas or stuck in glaciers. But I know some of my friends have been causing trouble, with floods in some parts of the country.

I’m afraid we have no control over where we go or what we do.

But I do apologise. I digress.

After the bonfire there was a frost so by the next morning I’d turned into a sparkling jewel, enjoying the sun. There were still curls of smoke floating from the embers of the fire, which drifted across the valley in a layer of mist.

It looked quite magical, like a world of floating dancers. Some people came out, clearing away the fallen fireworks.

Then came a munching sound, which gradually got closer and closer. The bonfire had been held in a field, normally occupied by cows. They’d been in a barn for the night to stop them getting scared by the fireworks.

Now they had been let out to enjoy a bit of wet grass for their breakfast.

I expect you can guess what happened? A large warm, pink tongue wrapped itself around a clump of grass and suddenly I was inside a cow’s large, grumbling tummy, bubbling away like one of those muddy geysers you see around volcanoes or in Iceland.

When you have your breakfast just think – I might by now be in your bottle of milk.

MENDIP GRANDAD

HEALTH & FAMILY

Learning from failure

THIS is supposed to be an election-free issue, but it would be remiss of me not to apologise for not standing in North East Somerset after all those other columns. In the end, I decided I didn’t want to split the vote. If I got, say, five percent of the vote and the incumbent won by four percent I

By Dr PHIL would have helped him get back in.

HAMMOND I’m sorry if you wanted to vote for me, but it could have done more harm than good. This doesn’t mean I’ve lost all interest in politics, but it’s impossible for an independent candidate to win unless, like the BBC correspondent Martin Bell (he of the white suit), you have the support of all the opposition parties.

I did ask them, but they all wish to field their own candidate which I fear will split the vote even further. Ho hum.

In other news, the NHS has just posted its worst performance figures on record. We are queuing longer in emergency departments and waiting longer for cancer treatments and other operations than before we started measuring such things.

Politicians try to tell us that the reason the NHS is struggling is because the population is growing and people are living longer. But a bigger problem is that we have huge inequalities and poor public health in the UK. From the moment your sperm meets your egg, the health and wealth of your parents, and the environment you’re raised in, determines not just your future life chances but your future health. Poor people have 20 more years living with one or more chronic diseases then rich people.

And poor physical and mental health often go hand in hand.

If this election doesn’t give you the result you were hoping for, don’t give up.

There are some amazing charities out there, that make a real difference and they’re desperate for your help.

Just by failing at politics, I’ve been asked to be an ambassador for BANES Citizen’s Advice, a patron for the wonderful Wells-based charity Heads Up and I’m lending my support to Bath’s visionary Julian House homeless charity.

All three help the most socially-excluded people rebuild their lives with advice, support, love and training. If politicians can’t rekindle our communities, we can. Get involved. And Merry Christmas.

Just email me at phil@drphilhammond.com

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 97

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MENDIP TIMES

The Hawthorns

Enjoy a worry-free and active lifestyle with all the chores done for you. The all-inclusive rental model covers your weekly housekeeping, property and garden upkeep, all fine dining and refreshments daily, plus all your heating and hot water. It even includes your Council Tax, internet access and daily activities. So don’t worry – just retire!

THIS stunning coastal development in the north Somerset town of Clevedon offers a choice of spacious one-bed and two-bed apartments and studios, a great restaurant and café, and active well-being programme and social calendar.

With all your bills, quality dining, housekeeping, council tax, maintenance and trips out in the mini-coach all included in one simple monthly rental, life is enjoyable and stress free.

Your wellbeing is a key concern for the Hawthorns staff and the experienced management team are on hand around the clock for your peace of mind in this safe and secure environment. The Hawthorns provides a great opportunity to make new friends, enjoy new experiences and relax in the freedom of an allinclusive lifestyle.

Unlike purchasing a retirement property, the Hawthorns is based on a rental model, meaning considerable savings. No survey fees, legal costs or stamp duty on moving in; no service charges, repair costs or ground rent as you live there, and importantly no exit fees should your circumstances change.

There’s no binding contract either, just 30 days’ notice, so very flexible and very clear.

Details: Search Hawthorns Clevedon on line or on Facebook, or call 01275 790060 to book your personal tour.

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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HEALTH & FAMILY

Walk your way to wellness A COMMUNITY group is celebrating its tenth anniversary by launching a new, free adult walking group in Cheddar and Axbridge.

Osprey Outdoors, a community interest company based in Banwell, uses the natural environment and outdoor skills to engage people, to help them learn and develop and to gain confidence as both individuals and as part of a team.

Osprey Outdoors has been running conservation and walking groups along with basic bushcraft courses with people mainly from Weston-super-Mare and North Somerset.

The new walking group – called Walking and Exploring the Landscape – will meet on Wednesday mornings with minibus pick-up points in Cheddar and Axbridge. It is open to anyone over 18 years old but people must be able to make their own way to either location.

Walks will usually be on Mendip but Osprey Outdoors has taken people to the Somerset Levels, Gloucestershire and South Wales.

All their work is funded by grants from Somerset Skills and Learning, Somerset

New to Cheddar and Axbridge!

Walking and exploring the landscape Free to join!

Wednesdays 9:30am–3:30pm Walking in the countryside, starting at three miles Map reading • Discovering nature No experience necessary Enjoy being outdoors • Meet new people Increase your fitness levels Find new places • Learn about wildlife Places are limited

Happy birthday to us! Matt Doolan and Wendy Watkins (seated), from Osprey Outdoors, prepare to cut a birthday cake during a bat box making session at the Charterhouse Centre

Community Foundation, the Workers’ Educational Association, The Big Lottery, North Somerset Community Partnership, Quartet Community Foundation and Bristol Water. The new walking group has been funded

by SSL. Wendy Watkins, from Osprey Outdoors, said: “The group is open to absolutely anyone from Somerset; you don’t need any experience just sturdy footwear, outdoor clothes and a packed lunch.”

Initial walks will be around three miles in distance but will increase to five. Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Visit: www.osprey-outdoors.co.uk

Please ring, text or email Wendy for info and to book ospreyoutdoors@gmail.com

07778 913192 01934 823148

Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals Theas’ Footcare, Mobile Foot Clinic Mobile: 07849 033 055 Email: thea-m-1@hotmail.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 99

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MENDIP TIMES

Winter fuel campaign launched

SOMERSET Community Foundation (SCF) has launched this year’s Surviving Winter campaign, which encourages people who can afford it to donate some or all of their Winter Fuel Payment to help local people who cannot afford to heat their homes.

Based on the most recent available data, SCF estimate that around 6,500 pensioners in Somerset face a stark decision between heating and eating.

Shockingly, in Somerset, it says almost 11% of households live in fuel poverty and cold weather is a prime cause of over 500 preventable deaths a year – often worsened by living in older or isolated rural homes.

Last year more than 500 elderly people living in Somerset were helped to stay warm and well through the cold winter months, thanks to local donors who gave

more than £100,000 to Surviving Winter.

SCF hopes to help even more people this year. Thanks to support from a generous funder and The Big Give Christmas Challenge, online donations to the campaign that are made during the weeklong Big Give Christmas Challenge – midday Tuesday, December 3rd to midday Tuesday, December 10th – will be doubled!

Glastonbury Festival founder and longtime Surviving Winter supporter Michael

HEALTH & FAMILY

Eavis has endorsed the campaign for another year.

He said: "The Surviving Winter campaign appealed to me right from the start. If everyone who can afford it gave their Winter Fuel Payment to Somerset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter appeal, hundreds of our pensioners across Somerset would have a more comfortable winter. I’m very happy to donate my Winter Fuel Payment to Somerset Community Foundation again this year.”

If you would like to donate to Surviving Winter, visit www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter or call 01749 344949. For information on how to apply for a Surviving Winter grant, contact either Community Council for Somerset on 01823 331222 or Age UK Somerset on 01823 345610 or visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter

PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

From Wookey Hole to Priddy Green

IN the 1960s, during the heyday of cavers’ sing-songs at the Hunters’ Lodge Inn, one of the most popular entertainers was Stanley Collins, better known to all as “Alfie”.

He was the author of many humorous caving songs and also wrote the “Spelaeodes”, a collection of doggerel verse With PHILIP recounting the misadventures of various HENDY mythical cavers.

One of these concerns Percy Pound who by the use of hydraulics opened up the lower reaches of Swildon’s Hole to discover a vast underground river: And thus today, our Percy Pound, Runs steamer trips beneath the ground And navigates the Mendip Queen From Wookey Hole to Priddy Green It was first established that water from the Priddy swallets emerges at Wookey Hole in 1860, when it was proved by primitive dye tracing that water sinking at St. Cuthbert’s Swallet on the Minneries was causing pollution affecting the paper mills using Wookey Hole as a water source.

It has subsequently been shown that the Priddy swallets are the main feeders for the Great Cave of Wookey Hole.

There are three main swallets, St. Cuthbert’s, Eastwater Cavern and Swildon’s Hole, in decreasing order of depth. They average 83 metres above sea level, whereas the highest airspace in Wookey Hole, Chamber 24, is at around 68 metres above sea level (the deepest sump is 26 metres below sea level).

Three other swallets lie above the main ones. Sludge Pit Hole and Nine Barrows Swallet both feed into Swildon’s Hole and North Hill Swallet has been tested to Wookey Hole.

The downstream exploration of these caves has not progressed for some time. Swildon’s Hole ends at Sump XII. There are three parts to this, but although a depth of 13 metres has been reached, the way on is too tight and heavily silted to enter.

For many years Eastwater Cavern had two deep points, the Terminal Rift, where digs attempting to follow the stream have so far been unsuccessful, and Primrose Pot. A very tight squeeze leads directly to a 57 metre pitch in three sections. The bottom is some 15 metres below Terminal Rift, and ends in impassably tight rifts.

Eastwater Cavern entrance

CAVING

St. Cuthbert’s Swallet entrance

(Photographs courtesy of Phil Hendy)

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The very lowest part of the cave was found after the West End Series was discovered by the Bristol Exploration Club in 1983.

Further exploration by them and members of the Wessex Cave Club eventually ended in 2009 at an eight-metre pitch below which is Sump 3. This is in a narrow rift and has been dived for ten metres reaching a depth of six metres, but eventually becomes too tight.

St. Cuthbert’s Swallet, lying to the east in the Minneries, is a superbly well decorated cave jealously guarded by the BEC, whose headquarters, the Belfry, lie close by. It was discovered in 1953 and a large streamway was followed to a sump.

This was passed after much effort in 1969 and the sump is now usually a five metre duck. The passage beyond contains several climbs over dams, both natural and artificial, and terminates at Sump 2. Underwater digging has pushed the sump to 30 metres, where the passage rises slightly after a U-tube, but is blocked by a boulder.

Each of these caves ends a long way from Wookey Hole, but in the shallow valley between Priddy and the Hunters’ Lodge Inn there are other caves which are likely to be part of the overall system.

Hunters’ Hole is a large dry passage at the bottom of a large 20metre pitch. Nearby, in the pub car park, is Hunters’ Lodge Inn Sink, dug into by the late Tony Jarratt when most of Mendip was out of bounds during the 2001 Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak.

Taking rainwater during periods of heavy rain, the sumps at the bottom, 53 metres down, have been investigated without success.

In the valley opposite the garage is Eighteen Acre Swallet, currently being dug through boulders.

It is almost above Sump I in St. Cuthbert’s Swallet, so is unlikely to lead to the Master Cave, the supposed main streamway linking the swallets to Wookey Hole.

High on the hill between the farms of Lower and Higher Pitts and at the head of a shallow valley running towards Ebbor Gorge is Templeton, a long-standing dig which is currently more than 100 metres deep, although still well above the projected water gradient between the swallets and Wookey Hole.

It lies on a fault, along which White Pit, Twin T’s Swallet and Sandpit Hole are also located. It once took a lot of water, though now it is only wet during periods of heavy rain, and then only receives precipitation which collects in the surface depression. Its position is good, but it is reluctant to give up its secrets.

So there is no immediate prospect of physically joining the Priddy swallets to Wookey Hole, and Percy Pound’s steamer is still in dry dock. For a subterranean boat ride, you will have to visit Speedwell Cavern in Derbyshire, the Caves of Drach in Mallorca, or the Gouffre de Padirac in the Dordogne.

Phil has been caving for more than 50 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and until his retirement was a caving instructor at Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves

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ENDIP TIMES MM ENDIP TIMES

Four seasons in one day: (l:r) Sue Begg (spring), Liz Anderson (summer) Ann Simon (autumn) and Gillian Sinclair (winter)

Community tapestry

COMMUNITY

Music and magic night at Inner Wheel charter night

Rosemary Bradley admires entries in the carrot cake competition

The Pensford, Publow and Stantons Community Trust has given £500 to Stanton Drew WI for a tapestry to mark their 100th anniversary. each member of the WI embroidered some part of the tapestry, all representing different parts of Stanton Drew.

The tapestry was unveiled by trust chairman Andrew hillman at the WI’s special tea party celebrating their anniversary.

Club president Sue Hopkins joins in the Nutty Noah fun by donning a ventriloquist’s mask

eNTeRTAINeR Nutty Noah had members and guests in fits of laughter at the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel 62nd charter night.

Guests at the dinner included district chairman Maureen Netherway and her husband Michael.

Maureen, from Yeovil, was back with the club four days later to tell members of her plans to raise money for her chosen charity Riding for the Disabled. Maureen is also supporting IW’s School in a Bag project and, in the organisation’s 96th anniversary year, wants to send 96 bags to a school in Nepal that IW has built.

Sue (left) with district chairman Maureen Netherway Felicity James and Andrew Hillman after Andrew had unveiled the tapestry

PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

The club welcomes new members. For details contact president Sue Hopkins on 07944 298036 or Elaine Muir on 07543 973666.

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COMMUNITY

Old Mill supports local charities

FINANCIAL experts old Mill have launched a new strategic partnership with Somerset Community Foundation (SCF), with a fund to support local charities across Somerset, Wiltshire and Devon.

The fund was officially launched with presentations to staff

by SCF development director Laura Blake at the firm’s four offices in Wells, Yeovil, Melksham and exeter. old Mill board member, Kevin Whitmarsh, also announced old Mill’s partnership to around 100 influential attendees at SCF’s annual celebration recently, which was sponsored by the firm.

The old Mill Fund will bring together donations from the company with funds raised by teams in each of their offices across the South West to support small, local charities. The fund will focus on three key areas: l Building brighter futures: helping young people to build skills, confidence and resilience to succeed at school and beyond. l Reducing rural loneliness: supporting activities that reduce loneliness and help to improve physical and mental health. l Strengthening communities: supporting projects that bring people together and build strong, supportive communities that help the most disadvantaged. l Staff at old Mill are also giving their time and expertise as volunteers at local charities, helping to upskill and strengthen the existing teams.

Kevin Whitmarsh said: “Supporting local causes and our charitable giving is really important to us at old Mill. It’s more than just giving money to local charities, it’s about being

Lantern parade

able to give back and to help make an impact to the communities we live and work in.

“When we hear all the incredible stories from individuals, families and community groups that have benefited from these grants it reminds us of the importance of being able to contribute both as individuals and as a business.”

Laura Blake said: “We are incredibly proud of our partnership with old Mill which will unlock vital funding and skills for local good causes. The old Mill Fund builds on many years of the firm providing generous support for local charities and we are greatly looking forward to making a lasting impact on communities together.”

Groups wishing to apply for funding from The old Mill Fund should apply through SCF’s grants programme, which opens for applications quarterly.

If you run a business and would like to know more about creating a fund with Somerset Community Foundation or supporting local good causes, contact Laura Blake, development director, on laura.blake@somersetcf.org.uk

Details: 01749 344949 or visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk

The Blagdon Lantern Parade will be “leaping” into spring in 2020. Keep the date free so you can join in – Saturday, February 29th starting at 5.30pm from the New Inn pub in Blagdon.

Details: Facebook or contact blagdonlanternparade@gmail.com

New start for youth services

YouTh support services in Bath and North east Somerset have been officially transferred to a new independent organisation run by former council staff.

The council’s Youth Connect Service has become a public staff mutual after council workers successfully applied to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) for funding for preparatory work to move the service to an independent organisation.

The move means services to help young people will be provided by the new not-forprofit organisation Youth Connect South West which is a registered charity and has a five-year contract with the council.

It follows the need by Bath & North east Somerset Council to look at new ways of providing the service following budget cuts since 2017.

A new board of trustees with a 20 strong staff group has been set up following consultation with the community and young people over the past 18 months.

It means young people will still have use of hubs in Bath and Peasedown St John.

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W el L

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Advent in Wells

ST ThoMAS Street Advent Windows in Wells will be supported by more than 30 residents this year and there could be more than one window opening each evening at 5pm. Maps will be displayed in the street as well as on flyers around the city.

They say they had lovely feedback from everyone who visited last year, with plenty of people walking up and down the street each evening to seek them out. This year there will be some live events including a puppet show.

The event raises money for Wells Connect Centre.

Community library

AFTeR 18 months of preparation and planning, Peasedown St John’s new community library has opened with special guest New York Times bestselling author, Adrian Tinniswood. The library is located at St John’s Community hall, 33a St John’s Close.

Adrian Tinniswood, who is a visiting fellow in heritage and history at Bath Spa university, said: "every home should have books in it. every community should have its own library. And everyone involved in this marvellous new initiative should be very proud indeed."

Volunteers will staff the library 12 hours per week, Mondays 1pm–4pm, Wednesdays 1pm–7pm and Saturdays 10am–1pm.

Cllr Karen Walker, library operations manager, opens Peasedown’s new library with Cllr Sarah Bevan, Adrian Tinniswood and Cllr Paul Crossley, B&NES cabinet member

Details: peasedownlibrary@hotmail.com or Facebook www.facebook.com/PSJcommunitylibrary

PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

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COMMUNITY

Fun in the orchard

Gurning in the orchard

Hard graft: Anita Collier at work

to enjoy the orchard on part of the old Showfield. The orchard was planted last year with Peoples Budget Town Vote money.

Apple pressing, chestnut planting, apple printing, face painting and bunting making were also on the agenda along with talks from several experts raising awareness in bee re-wilding projects, local market gardens and an interactive

foraging walk and talk.

Deputy mayor, Anita Collier, who helped out with the apple pressing, said: “It’s not as easy as it looks, but what a perfect way to use up our autumnal bounty of apples. “everyone had a fun day and there were some very informative and interesting talks – I’m looking forward to next year already.”

Youth work plan in Peasedown Air ambulance charity thanks Lions Club LoCAL residents are planning to start a new youth work

programme in Peasedown St John early in 2020 to help replace the service run by Bath and North east Somerset Council which closed in June.

The three churches in the village, St John’s Anglican, the Methodist Church and St Joseph’s Catholic Church along with members of the community want to ensure that young people have the support that they need.

To enable this a senior qualified youth worker (four days per week) and an assistant youth worker (one day per week) will be employed with the aim of starting work in February 2020.

Chair of the Peasedown St John Youth Partnership, Ian Souter, said: “With the equivalent of a full-time youth worker’s hours available we will be able to provide open access youth work available to any young person, along with a wider range of activities which we hope will be attractive to a wide range of young people.

“The youth workers will also be involved in church youth work and will be employed by Youth for Christ who are already working with local councils in providing youth work in Timsbury and providing open access youth work at the Riverside Youth hub in Bath.”

A successful fundraising campaign has raised enough funds to support the first three years of youth work and fundraising will continue to ensure its future. The youth work will also require the support of volunteers to enable the provision of a wide range of activities to help the skills of young people and to give them fun things to do that interest them.

Details: souterfam@aol.com

A roaring success: Clevedon Lions on their visit to Almondsbury

CLeVeDoN Lions Club were invited to visit the headquarters of the Great Western Air Ambulance as a thank you for their support in 2019.

An appeal was launched by GWAAC in July 2018 to enable them to purchase new premises near Almondsbury as their base at Filton base was no longer suitable. A total of £1.3 million pounds was raised by the local community, which meant that they were able to move into the new facility in october last year.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 105

(Photo courtesy of Chris Bailey)

GuRNING and apple peeling competitions were part of the fun at Frome’s Community orchard Apple Day. The event was organised by Frome Town Council to encourage more people

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MENDIP TIMES

MeLLS Village Shop marked its tenth anniversary of successful trading as a community-run enterprise with a visit from the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

The duke presented Mike Phypers, shop manager, and Liz o’Sullivan,

volunteer manager, with the chairman of Somerset County Council’s Award for Service to the Community on behalf of MVS. County council chairman Nigel Taylor stressed how the Mells community had “come together” during the development

(l:r) The Earl of Oxford and Asquith, Jerry Crawford (Mells Village Shop), the duchess and duke of Gloucester, Helen Culwick (MVS), Mike Phypers, manager and Jo Fairclough, cafe manager

Friends of Pensford

of the shop, thereby achieving what commercial shops could not.

The duke, in his speech, praised the efforts of three local ladies who had raised hundreds of pounds for café improvements by selling their colourful knitting in the premises.

A hamper of local produce was presented to the royals by Mabel (aged six) and Nancy (aged five) Rutland

AFTeR visiting Lambeth Palace back in the summer to help celebrate the Churches Conservation Trust’s 50th anniversary, the Friends of Pensford Church Tower invited the trust’s newly-appointed community officer for the

Pictured (l to r) Community officer Ed McGregor, with some of the Tower friends, Catriona Ree, Jenny Gully, Guilly Jones and Jane Flower

West, ed McGregor along for a visit.

The tower in Pensford is just one of the many redundant churches looked after by the trust, who rely on volunteers to care for these beautiful buildings and also open them for special events and visitors.

The friends will be supporting the annual Pensford Nativity Trail, which starts on Sunday, December 1st at dusk. It will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout December with the last walk finishing on Christmas Day. After visiting the friends Alex said: “I was absolutely delighted to see inside the church for the first time and to go up the tower. It really is a gem.”

The life-size nativity figures have been created for the past six years by local man, Paul Baxter, with maps available from the old village lock-up. Donations go towards the maintenance of the medieval church tower.

Details: Jane Flower 01761 490234/0770 3699123 or email flowerj@live.co.uk

PAGE 106 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

(Photos courtesy of Caroline True)

Royal stamp of approval for village shop

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COMMUNITY

Record year for Quartet

A feast of cultural diversity

Quartet in the early days had a vision of how philanthropy could make a difference to local communities.

“What I’m most proud of is that Quartet Community Foundation has kept its original remit of giving money to where it’s most needed – to small charities and organisations that many people may never have heard of, but who we know do an amazing job of

huNDReDS of people enjoyed an afternoon exploring different cultures at a festival in Frome.

The town is home to people of some 50 different nationalities and many were represented at the event, from Finland to Sri Lanka, Peru to Syria and the uK to Thailand. As well as food, there were displays and performances.

It was the third festival of its kind. Lenka Grimes, who organised the event with Azeema Caffoor, said: “We wanted to celebrate and promote the diversity of Frome.”

Village hall celebration ReSIDeNTS of Priston attended a celebratory lunch to mark the re-opening of their village hall. This followed a major programme of repair and improvement that included fixing the leaking roof, making improvements to heating and ventilation, enhancing the kitchen and toilet facilities and redecorating throughout.

The Grade II listed building was originally the village workhouse and then a school until this closed in 1970. Since then

supporting local people in need.”

The foundation covers B&NeS, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire and specialises in offering philanthropy advice and support to over 270 philanthropists who hold funds with them. These funds are then used for grant-making to local causes.

(Photo courtesy of Nick Spratling)

QuARTeT Community Foundation is celebrating handing out £50 million in grants since it was founded in 1987.

It follows a record year in which it distributed a record £3.5million to 877 small, local causes. Back in 1987 the foundation awarded £16,585 worth of grants to 19 projects.

The charity’s chief executive, Sue Turner, said: “People involved in

Just some of the nationalities represented at the festival

it has been managed as the village hall by a committee of villagers.

The project cost around ￡90,000, which was a huge challenge for the village, which only numbers around 230 residents.

The hall is located in the heart of the village next to the Ring o’ Bells pub and is a key social hub for the village. It boasts a main hall with a capacity of 100 standing/70 seated, a stage and kitchen

and is equipped with ultrafast broadband from TrueSpeed.

The building hosts a wide range of activities including a Saturday café, tai chi, Pilates, yoga, keep-fit, chiropody clinics, parish council meetings and village concerts and performs a key role in the village May Day and annual Priston Music Festival and is also much in demand for private parties, weddings and other events.

Details: www.priston.org.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 107

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Cakes for cats and dogs

Christmas in Ubley

AFTeR a visit to Bath Cats and Dogs home with their school, three Clutton Primary School Year 4 pupils, who are also members of the 1st Clutton Brownies, decided to raise money for the home by holding a cake sale after school and raised £112.51.

Paige, Chloe and Mia are pictured with their mums Becky Carpenter and Claire Carter.

DeSPITe the bad weather, ubley craft and gift fair was another success this year, offering lots of gifts for people to buy for Christmas and raising around £750 for the school PTA and the parish hall. once again members of ubley primary school PTA took turns to sell refreshments. Pictured (l to r) are Liz harvey, Diane Bellamy, Kate Corcoram, emily Mabey, Charlotte Baker and Sarah Isom.

Winter crafters

The first of this winter's Compton Dando Craft Days attracted 25 people. They were started by harriette Dottridge several years for people who might feel isolated or who were new to the area to enjoy sharing their work and meeting others.

Subsequent dates this winter are Saturday, January 18th, Tuesday, January 28th and Monday, February 17th.

Details: Harriette 01761 490445 or email hdottridge@hotmail.com

Library celebrates

BIShoP Sutton Community Library has celebrated its first anniversary with a cake and balloons.

A month earlier Meriel James (centre) hosted her annual Save the Children coffee morning at the library rather than at her home and raised more than £1,000, around twice as much as in previous years.

She’s pictured at the library’s celebration with Sheila Lyons (lef0 and Sarah Arrowsmith.

PAGE 108 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Chew Stoke soup lunch

ANoTheR Winter Warmer, which is put on each Christmas at Chew Stoke, saw a much enjoyed soup lunch and sale of seasonal items raise £700 towards the refurbishment of Chew Stoke Methodist Church hall. Pictured (l to r) are helpers Angie hurford, Maggie Patch and Joan Sharman.

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COMMUNITY

Villagers save their shop

Collecting Christmas presents

Volunteers Rob & Sue Elliott

Banish the January blues

FRoMe Town Council has announced that a rescheduled free firework display – cancelled in November due to bad weather – will now take place on Saturday, January 25th.

Following the launch of last year’s popular fireworks event, the town opted for the return of another spectacular display as part of the People’s Budget events vote. The rescheduled date coincides with Burn's Night and Chinese New Year.

Mayor of Frome, Mark Dorrington said: “We were all disappointed with the postponement of the fireworks but we’re looking forward to banishing those January blues with a magnificent display. It’s all for a good cause so we hope everyone can make the new date!”

Rotary clubs in Frome will be collecting donations on the evening, which will then be distributed to Frome charities and projects.

Pictured (l tor) Pam Brewster from Frome club, district chairman Maureen Nethaway from Yeovil club, and former district chairman and club president Linda Quinn from Paulton

INNeR Wheel clubs throughout District 20 held a meeting in Taunton to collect goods for various charities as well as Christmas shoeboxes for under-privileged children abroad.

District 20 includes clubs in Bath, Chelwood Bridge, Frome, Langport, Midsomer Norton and Radstock, Shepton Mallet, Wellington, Wells, Wrington Vale and Yeovil.

Last year’s display was hugely popular with people in Frome

(Photo courtesy of Chris Bailey)

WheN Draycott village shop was on the verge of closure, a group of villagers got together to see if they could save it.

Fast forward 12 weeks, they have formed a community benefit society, raised over £25k with villagers purchasing shares, and are currently renovating the shop.

It will officially open Saturday, November 30th at 12pm by the winners of Draycott First School’s poster competition. All villagers are invited to join them for mulled cider and mince pies.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 109

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HOMES & INTERIORS

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Be watchful this winter

WINTER is a great time for watching wildlife and there is no better place to observe nature than from the back of a horse.

As trees and hedgerows drop their leaves, horse riders are more visible on the roads too. I have been hacking around the Mendip With RACHEL Hills for more than 50 years, so I notice the THOMPSON changes each season brings. Every year as MBE the brilliant red, brown, gold and green of autumn colours give way to winter, I search the fields and woods for the arrival of farmland birds, a passing fox and a badger rustling through the leaves.

Exchanging fields wet from the recent rain for hacking around the lanes there is plenty to see. The low autumn sun provides an ever-present shadow of us for Tam to spook at. The first sighting is of our favourite roe deer and her twins mooching down the lane in front of us, nibbling the vegetation. Buzzards scratch in the plough searching for worms, whilst a magpie and two jackdaws join forces to mob one flying overhead. Flocks of chaffinches, great tits and sparrows explore the hedgerows and I am so glad to see the arrival of the first overwintering flocks of redwings, field fares and starlings at last.

According to the RSPB, by 2012, the UK had lost 44 million birds in half a century. Sometimes it’s hard to see what we are missing but looking back down the years I realise the flocks were much larger and sadly some species have disappeared altogether – like the plovers displaying and calling overhead that I used to see on long ago winter rides across North Hill.

A winter wonderland along the old colliery line at Newbury for Amy and Chewie

PAGE 114 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019

Enjoying the autumn colours: Rebecca and Tiger near Wookey Hole

Avon and Somerset police are also keen for us to be watchful in winter because criminals have more hours of darkness under which to operate. All of us can “help shut the gate on rural crime”. I recently enquired about joining Farm and Horse Watch. In our area the scheme is co-ordinated by PCSO Tammy Smith from the Force Rural Unit.

Tammy popped by with signs and information. She explained that police share information with members by text regarding incidents and crimes occurring in their area. In return members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly – helping to beat organised rural crime. Items such as tack, batteries, fencing units, vehicles etc can all be marked. I could choose between a Farm Watch or a Horse Watch poster. Farm Watch is ideal if you are keen not to advertise your horses’ presence.

I discover PCSO Tam is a keen and tough road and mountain cyclist, motor cyclist and former horse rider. She knows every village, farm and backwater so is perfect for the job of crime prevention and encouraging new members into the scheme. On her way out she pauses to pat equine Tam, who is blatantly advertising her presence by standing at the gate. Equine Tam gently bares her teeth. PCSO Tam responds with a cool stare.

Frankly I wouldn’t want to meet either of them on a dark cold Mendip night.

To join the Horse Watch Scheme or to find out more information, email ruralcrimeteam@avonandsomerset.police.uk Suspicious activity should be monitored and recorded discreetly and reported quickly and accurately. Where a serious crime is in progress, do not attempt to confront the suspect by yourself.

Call 999 immediately and wait for the police to attend. l I hope you all have a lovely Christmas and enjoy your winter riding and carriage driving. I am always interested in your stories so please do contact me via Mendip Times if you have an adventure, success or happy time to share.

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Riders support charity

RIDING

WEllOW Pony Club held a sponsored ride at Wellow Trekking Centre and raising money for Time is Precious, which supports children and their families in hospital.

Every Saturday more than 40 children, aged four-16, go to the centre to learn stable management and achieve their Pony Club badges.

They designed all of the requirements of the sponsored ride, including advertisements, dates and accessibility, all to achieve their fundraising badge in the process.

One of organisers, para-dressage rider lucy Mae Bush (pictured), who volunteers at the centre, said: “We had a great time, raising £650 so far, with thanks to Wellow Trekking Centre and Didi's Kitchen.”

Emmie’s bound for Olympia EMMIE Horner, aged nine, from litton has qualified for the Mini Major class at Olympia in December. Emmie has only had her eight-year-old pony Silver Nero since February with her first

competition being at Mendip Springs.

The class is very sought-after by hundreds of children all over the country aged 12 and under, with 128cms ponies, with only six qualifying and two

wild cards being allocated.

The children (the Minis) get to compete with a famous showjumper (Major) in a fast and furious against the clock round.

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MENDIP TIMES

RIDING

Raceday raises thousands for military mental health charity RACEGOERS at Wincanton dug deep into their pockets to help raise a total of more than £65,000 for the service personnel charity Combat Stress.

It was the third and final Combat Stress Day at Wincanton and coincided with the charity’s centenary. The main race of the day was the Combat Stress Centenary Handicap Steeple Chase for the Desert Orchid Silver Cup, won by the Kim Bailey-trained Wandrin Star.

Combat Stress is the UK’s leading charity for veterans’ mental health, helping former servicemen and women with issues such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Raceday committee chairman, Major Andrew Johnston, said: “I am enormously grateful to the Wincanton team for allowing us to invade them once again. The successful dovetailing together of the committee, Wincanton/Jockey Club and Combat Stress representatives into a single team has been critical to achieving so much more than I had hoped for.”

Army cadets from Sherborne and Gillingam running the Combat Stress stall

The Philip Hobbs-trained Dolphin Square (second from right) was ridden by owner and amateur jockey David Maxwell to victory in the John Romans Park Homes Combat Stress Novices' Hurdle

Party time for these racegoers

For details about Combat Stress visit: www.combatstress.org.uk

It does happen to a vet!

AlTHOUGH Stables Equine Practice – part of the langford Vets Group – began the year with two of their key veterinary surgeons on “box rest” for injuries sustained during the festive period(!), happily they were both fully recovered in time for the onset of a busy spring and summer.

In fact during the summer as things hotted up, we found ourselves in need of reinforcements and heartily thank Judith who stepped in to help us during the busiest part of the year.

Subsequently we have welcomed our newest vet, Matilda, on board to expand our vet frontline team and look forward to Jenny Mason’s return in February ready for a busy 2020.

During the winter months we look forward to welcoming clients to more of our informative and sociable client evenings when there will be an opportunity to put names to faces with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine in hand. For details please check www.stablesequinepractice.co.uk or our facebook page.

In the meantime all of us at “The Stables” wish our clients and their horses a peaceful and happy Christmas and prosperous New Year 2020!

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Practice founder Nicko Robertson with practice manager Dawn Stubbs

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MENDIP TIMES

Whatever the weather “'TiS the season to be jolly” will be sung at many a carol concert during the festive period. Yet for cyclists this is the season that has the most CYCLING unfavourable weather with EDMUND LODITE for cycling. Can the two be reconciled?

Well, we’ve all heard the phrase “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”. Simple in its message, it sums up much of the misconceptions about the British weather.

Riding in the rain is not one of the most appealing aspects of cycling, yet it’s something that you have to be prepared to face. Regardless of whether the rain started unexpectedly, or because it was during commute time or you just needed to get some fresh air – it’s likely that any cyclist will find themselves riding in a downpour at some point.

But surprisingly there are health benefits from cycling when it is wet. Rain showers generate large quantities of negative ions and research has shown that negative ions increase our serotonin levels, helping us to fight stress and alleviate both chronic depression and seasonal affective disorder.

Negative ions also increase the flow of oxygen to our brains, leading to more mental energy and clearer thinking. The message from the science seems to be – play in the rain, your mind and body will thank you!

To stay dry a good waterproof cycling jacket is the most important piece of clothing. Not only will a good jacket keep the upper body dry it will also help regulate body temperature. in the bleak midwinter the hands and

Future hockey star?

SaSkia Lawrence, aged 15, from Congresbury is one of 32 girls from across the country who have been selected to join the 2019/20 U16 England Hockey National Squad.

She will now embark on a rigorous programme, which involves training and competition weekends throughout the year at locations both across the Uk and overseas.

Since joining Redmaids’ High School at the age of ten, Saskia has represented the

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feet are the first to be sacrificed in order to maintain core temperature.

Gloves need to offer protection without being so thick that they hamper control of the bike. Many brands produce gloves made of neoprene fabric that work in a similar way to a wet suit trapping warmth whilst maintaining dexterity.

To prolong that nice dry feeling in your feet there are two options – cheap or proper. The cheap option is to slip a plastic bag over your socks, and tuck the top of the bag under your cycling tights. i remember doing this on a long ride through thunderstorms and torrential rain.

The thing about water is that it is very good at seeping in through the smallest of gaps and it found its way into the bags and stayed there. at the end of the day my wrinkled feet looked as though they had been soaked in the bath all day! it was after riding through several winters in the Mendips before i discovered how much difference overshoes can make.

Cycle shoes are ventilated for comfort in the summer, but this can be a problem in the cold or rain. Overshoes provide comforting protection and are worth their weight in gold (albeit they don’t weigh that

school in many national competitions.

Outside school, she has been playing for Clifton Ladies Hockey Club since she was seven years old and currently plays for the second team in the National investec Conference West.

Saskia has also played a major part in the junior section, where she has competed in numerous finals including two U-14s national finals finishing in third place in consecutive years and also was part of the team for the U-16s indoor

much anyway!) at this time of year you’re also more likely to be cycling in the dark or in dim conditions. although wearing bright reflective clothing helps a lot, the most important thing to staying safe is good lighting. it’s worth spending as much as you can afford – particularly if you’re cycling in unlit areas.

Cycling at night is a unique experience.

Most people have to do it because they are commuting and the daylight hours have gone. But there are more cyclists than you might think who deliberately go out in the dark.

Things are different – in the day there are distractions and things to look at whereas at night you are concentrating on the beam of light in front of you. The grass banks and evergreens turn electric green in powerful white light.

Roads glitter with silica and quartz. and because you’re forced to focus on what appears in the bright beam in front, seeing becomes a conscious process, it keeps you on your toes. and in the silent night hearing strange sounds over your shoulder can sure make you ride a bit faster too...!

finals last year.

Mum, Jackie Lawrence, said: “The next year is a really important one for Saskia as she works towards selection for the England matches against opposition such as Holland, USa and Belgium.”

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Young ski racers sparkle

Members of Avon Ski Club junior race team catch their breath between runs before the final event of the Slalom Summer Race League

avON Ski Club based at Mendip Outdoor Centre are looking for would-be ski racers to join their programme of winter race training and activities.

The friendly club has slalom ski racers from as young as five to the over 50s and anyone wishing to progress their skiing to the next level is welcome to go along for a free taster session.

The club train each Tuesday from 6–8pm. all you need is the ability to link parallel turns and any future winter Olympians can take to the slopes under the expert guidance of the club’s three qualified coaches. adults can join in or may prefer to enjoy a hot chocolate from the alpine bar balcony under twinkling lights!

Details: Facebook/avonskiclub or call club welfare officer Toby Pinn 07966 485691

Shepton’s tumbling champions

SPORT

Speedway riders honoured

aNDERS Rowe and Rory Schlein scooped the major honours at the Somerset “Cases” Rebels 2019 endof-season awards party evening and were confirmed as 2020 starters by club owner Debbie Anders Rowe with Rebels promoter Bill Hancock.

Hancock Schlein, who scooped the rider of the year accolade and the Bob Taylor Memorial Cup as the fastest rider of the year, revealed to an audience of around 100 fans and sponsors that the 2020 campaign would be his last in British speedway.

He said: "You guys here tonight will be the first to learn of my decision to head off back to australia after next season but i am delighted that i can spend my last season here again at Somerset as i really enjoyed my time here this year. “it's a fair track, it always has been and it is one of those places that is always going to provide that little bit of magic.”

Rowe, aged 17, was the winner of four awards: the inaugural Social Media Rider of the Year award, voted for by fans, the Somerset Riders' Fund award, won the Track Staff Rider of the Year vote and was named Most improved Rider of the Year.

Nico Covatti was voted the Most Entertaining Rider.

The Somerset Rebels compete in the SGB Championship the second tier of British speedway's three-tier set up, and race from april to October at the Oak Tree arena at Edithmead, near Highbridge.

GYMNaSTS Millie Rood and Nathaniel Halls are celebrating after being crowned South West Tumbling champions in a major competition in Bristol.

The pair were amongst a large group from Shepton Mallet Gymnastics Club to take part in the event. Millie gained gold in the Silver Category, overcoming her nerves to complete some new moves, with Nathaniel matching her success in the senior category.

Other tumblers also came home with medals, including Calla Scott and Darcie Snaith. (l:r): Natalie Lythaby, Millie Rood, Calla Scott and Darcie Snaith

Nathaniel Halls

The club is still searching for new premises in Shepton Mallet. To help or to find out more about the club, visit: www.sheptongymnasticsclub.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2019 • PAGE 119

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MENDIP TIMES

Fergie – time to celebrate

Sir Alex with Give Me A Copper

FOOTBaLL legend Sir alex Ferguson was present to cheer Give Me a Copper – a horse he part-owns – onto victory in the prestigious Badger Beers Silver Trophy Handicap Race at Wincanton.

The win gave trainer Paul Nicholls his tenth victory in the Class One race. The horse was ridden by Harry Cobden; its stablemate – and favourite – Present Man was seeking its third victory under Briony Frost but was pulled up.

Give Me A Copper (far right) in action

World Cup winner

ENGLaND may have lost the Rugby World Cup, but it was a triumph for one former player from the Chew valley.

Jilly Collins (nee Holroyd), from Chew Stoke, a former player with the valley Cats and pupil at Chew valley School, was in Japan as an official match commissioner. This was her third time officiating at a Rugby World Cup. She spent five years working for the Welsh Rugby Union and then for Sport England before marrying Jilly Collins Olympic kayaker Dan Collins and moving to australia, where she is now head of women’s rugby and rugby participation for Rugby australia. The commissioner’s role involves various duties including pitch inspections, liaison with teams, broadcasters and medical briefings. She was also fortunate enough to attend two classic encounters: Scotland versus Japan and the final between England and South africa.

She said: “it was amazing to see first-hand how the nation has embraced the Rugby World Cup. Just being in the stadium and hearing the crowd’s continued excitement for the entire match was very special. They are such enthusiastic and respectful supporters.”

She plans to return to Chew Stoke to see family and friends at Christmas.

Walking football gets a boost

Jockey Harry Cobden clutches the trophy

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CHEDDaR Walking Football group have signed a couple of former league stars and welcome new people to join them.

Paul Randall, ex- Bristol Rovers and Stoke City legend, has joined the sessions and Chelsea FC’s record appearance maker, Ron “Chopper” Harris, has agreed to become the group’s first ever president.

So far, in just a few weeks they have seen over 20 different people go along with ages ranging from 53 to 73.

Some are former local footballers, but many haven’t played since having a kickabout at school. They just enjoy the banter and the chance to help their fitness. it meets at kings Leisure Centre every Wednesday from 6-7pm. it even has its own official sponsor, The Cider Barn at Draycott, the venue for post-match analysis.

Cheddar Walking Football group with former Bristol Rovers star Paul Randall – the only player holding his boots

Clubhouse needs “TLC”!

Norton’s 1st XV (in red and white stripes) put on a matchwinning 50-12 performance against Gordano in front of guests at a former players day. The next reunion is due to take place on Saturday, April 18th 2020, when Norton take on Chipping Sodbury

MiDSOMER Norton RFC has appealed to supporters to help fund much-needed repairs and improvements to their clubhouse at Norton Down. an out-of-date heating system which serves the changing rooms needs replacing as does some kitchen and other equipment.

The appeal comes at a time when the club says it is close to finalising the purchase of some land which it is currently using and improving with the permission of the landowner – it is hoping for financial help from the RFU and Sport England. The land is currently used by several junior football teams from the local area.

Club president Nigel Rowles asked supporters to consider making a one-off donation to fund the clubhouse repairs. He said: “We have put all our energies into acquiring the land and sadly, the clubhouse itself has been rather neglected.

“The land will allow us to become even more of an asset to the local community; you only have to see how busy we are at weekends, but our infrastructure needs updating.”

And the winners were . . .

The presentation night at The Globe Inn

WELLS Tennis Club has held its annual presentation night.

Winners and runners up were: Seniors Mixed Doubles won by Binkie Heather and Martyn Holliday. Mixed doubles: Julia Nest and kevin Durney r/u Marie Bruckshaw and Jack Williams. Ladies Doubles: Julia Nest and Marie Bruckshaw r/u Caroline Moule and Wendy Edwards. Mens Doubles: Dave Mills and Neil Coleman r/u Martyn Holliday and Richard Hole. Ladies Singles: Ginni Smith r/u Caroline Moule Mens Singles: kevin Durney r/u Dave Mills. Players Player of the Year: Caroline Moule

Boxing club continues to attract new fighters

SPORT

TWO new members of Norton Radstock amateur Boxing Club made their first ring appearances in a skills bout aimed at uncovering new talent.

Ben Coles and Mitchell Braithwaite took part in the event in Weymouth. The action is controlled by the referee with jabs only in the first round, leftBen and Mitch with their skills bout rights in the second trophies and both hands in the third. There is no winner and both boxers received trophies for their efforts.

Club coach Sean Jenkins said: "These bouts are designed to give both boxers involved the experience of boxing in front of a large and sometimes raucous crowd. Both Ben and Mitch showed me they've got the heart and smarts for it and can think for themselves, using their boxing brains and skills, because once that bell goes, they're on their own.

“So, it’s very pleasing to see them trying things that we've been trying in the gym. The third round is always the testing round when both boxers can use all their punches; both my boys demonstrated that they can mix their shots to good effect so i can’t ask for anything more really.

“There are still things to work on, but both the boys will have gained massive confidence and experience for future bouts. i'll be looking to get them both out again soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, the club's newly-crowned Western Counties Champion Cameron Walker continued to impress with a unanimous points win in Westonsuper-Mare beating kieran Smith of Blake aBC. Sean added: "i'd say that was quite easily the best i’ve seen Cameron box, the confidence he's gained from winning the Western Counties title was quite evident even though his opponent had a couple more bouts Sean Jenkins and Cameron Walker after than Cameron.” the boxer’s win in Weston-super-Mare

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(Photography courtesy of Chris Challis)

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Fantasies in schools thanks to literature festival

THE success of this year’s Wells Festival of Literature will pump £5,000 more than last year into local youth literature projects, ranging from puppet shows and fantasy plays in schools to readings by authors and poets.

A total of 32 events took place – around 6,000 hours of talks – bringing writers, scientists and thinkers to Wells, ranging from Christopher and Julia Somerville, who grew up in Dinder, to Liverpool legend Roger McGough.

As a result of funding from the festival – along with Shepton Mallet Town Council, Literature Works and The Arts Council – Mumblecrust Theatre brought The Tale of the Cocaktrice to St Paul’s junior school with shows for pupils and grown-ups.

Mumblecrust Theatre – Tony Leach and Katie Underhay – take to the stage at St Paul’s School

The Tale of the Cockatrice delighted audiences at two performances

The opening of this year’s Wells Festival of Literature (l:r): chairman Richard Manning with Maggie Langdon, Emma Craigie and John Cryer

Top award for Churchill Music for its outstanding contribution

CHuRCHiLL Music has won major recognition in the arts world by landing the prestigious St. George’s Bristol Prize for Music 2019.

This prize is intended “to recognise and celebrate groups, individuals or organisations who make an outstanding contribution to music within their local community”. it is open to individuals or groups working within four unitary authorities of Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire “who inspire a love of music making amongst people of all ages and backgrounds”.

St. George’s head of education, Catherine Freda, said: “That’s definitely Churchill Music.”

Churchill Music won the award not only for bringing world class musicians such as Royal wedding cellist Sheku KannehMason to perform for local people, but also for its strong commitment to music education.

As well as staging five professional concerts each year, the charity is involved in a host of ground-breaking education initiatives.

These include a project in

primary schools that uses music to tackle metal health issues, a film narrated by actor John Hannah about the importance of music in primary schools, a secondary school project that allows GCSE music students to have their compositions coached and performed by top musicians and a Young Musician of the Year competition which this year was adjudicated by Susana Stranders from the Royal Opera House.

Jan Murray of Churchill Music said: “We are truly honoured to have won this award in recognition of our hard work. in a world where the arts are being steadily pushed out of schools, we are pushing them back in and helping to show people the positive power of music.

“Churchill Music is run on a voluntary basis by its trustees – we don’t have any staff beyond the musicians and educators we employ on a project basis. We have achieved what we have because we are passionate about what we do and committed to making a difference through music so it’s really wonderful to have this recognised by the award.”

The prize is awarded at the Young Artist Showcase/Tom Eveson Gala Concert which will take place on the evening of February 11th.

details: Jan Murray 01934 853518 info@churchillmusic.org.uk churchillmusic.org.uk

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First Christmas concert

MUSiC & ThEaTRE

SPECTRA Musica’s The First Nowell will be an enjoyable Christmas concert with some well-loved carols for the audience to participate in.

As well as bringing you well known music such as Torches by John Joubert, Sir Christémas by William Mathias and Masters in this Hall by David Willcocks, you may be surprised by one or two other pieces! What, no J S Bach you ask? Yes, one of his motets, Lobe den Herrn, alle Heiden will be performed. This will be the first Christmas concert Spectra Musica has actually given and they are really looking forward to the evening, led by their talented musical director, Peter Leech and organist Harold Jackson.

The concert is on Saturday, December 14th, 7.30pm at the Church of St Luke and St Teresa, Wincanton. Tickets, priced £12 (includes refreshments), are available from 01963 350160, from tickets@spectramusica.co.uk or on the door.

a Christmas treat

GLASTONBuRY Male Voice Choir’s Christmas concert and carols is the choir’s most magical and wonderful night of the year. it will be held in the impressive setting of Glastonbury Town Hall on Wednesday, December 11th at 8pm. They are unable to use their normal venue as St John’s church is currently being refurbished.

To top it all off, there will also be mince pies, wine and refreshments.

This has become one of the highlights of the Somerset Christmas season and is a very popular sell-out occasion, so be sure not to miss out.

Tickets are available from choir members and the Glastonbury Tourist information Centre (next to the Town Hall). A limited number may be available at the door.

The choir has become one of the West

Country’s premier choirs and will be recruiting in January as this marks the start of rehearsals of both popular and classical songs ready for their main concert season through the spring and summer.

Anyone interested in joining the choir is welcome to go along to Glastonbury Town Hall on Tuesday evenings at 7.45pm to see how they like singing in a choir.

The choir is a registered charity and regularly performs around the area providing entertainment and helping raise funds for local charities.

Messiah brings Christmas joy to Wells

ENJOY an uplifting festive experience like no other, when Messiah comes to Wells Cathedral on Saturday December 7th. in their annual performance of Handel's great choral work, Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society will be accompanied by some of Europe's finest

period instrument musicians in the Music for Awhile Orchestra, led by violinist Jean Paterson.

The soloists are Elizabeth Atherton (soprano), Tim Morgan (countertenor), Peter Auty (tenor) and Ben McAteer (bass). The conductor is Jeremy Cole.

The society says: "This concert is truly a wonderful musical event and we know that audiences really feel the joy of the Christmas season when they hear Messiah – and indeed become part of it during the Halleluja chorus.

"Tickets are already going fast and as the concert has sold out previously we do advice early booking to avoid disappointment."

The concert is on Saturday, December 7th, 7pm prompt. Tickets are £14-£30.

details: www.wcos.org, by phone 01749 834483 or at the Wells Cathedral Shop 01749 672773

Summer of song ends on a high

Musical director Jamie Knights (left) receives a commemorative plaque from the nankersey president adrian Wilton

MENDiP Male Voice Choir were joined by family and friends to end their summer season by travelling to Cornwall to sing with two of the country’s top choirs. in Falmouth Methodist Church they sang with Nankersey Male Choir in aid of Little Harbour Childrens Hospice, run by Children’s Hospice South West. Nearly £500 was raised for the charity.

The following day the “Mendip Men” were on the same bill in concert as the Mousehole Male Voice Choir, singing in the Methodist Church at Penzance.

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(Photo courtesy of Louis Smith)

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MendiP TiMes

Wells welcomes back the reindeer

Wells will once again be packed for the reindeer parade

tHE programme has been announced for the 13th annual Wells Reindeer Parade, organised by the city’s rotary club. the event will be held on Sunday, December 8th and will follow the now-traditional format of an official opening at 10.50am by the mayor of Wells, John osman and rotary club president Chris Borrison, followed by the presentation of prizes for the children’s art and poetry competitions. the parade itself will leave the Market Square at midday, returning by 12.30pm for a performance by the Joyful Spirit choir followed by Wells City Band.

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Christmas Wonderland at Puxton Park

Puxton Park is hosting its annual Grand Christmas Lights switch-on on Saturday, november 30th. the tree is going to be one of the largest in the South West and its giant star topper will shine all across Somerset!

Families are invited to join this festive event at 3pm, with the light switch on at 4.30pm. there will be meet and greet sessions with Father Christmas, Mrs. Claus and two of their favourite reindeer, plus local choirs, hot cocoa, and Christmas stories.

With all of these festive activities going on, Puxton Park is going to be transformed into a magical wonderland for families to celebrate this festive season. this event is FREE to members and only £4 for non-members and includes full access to the park.

Santa's Grotto itself will also open on november 30th, where all of the children can listen to Christmas stories from Mrs. Claus, create beautiful Christmas crafts with the elves and watch Christmas films. there’s also the chance to have supper with Santa from December 19th-22nd. this sell-out event includes a buffet tea, ice cream, a funky disco and a present from Santa! this experience is great for children of all ages and includes admission to Puxton's huge three-storey soft-play barn. tickets are £12.50 for children and £5 for adults.

Details: 01934 523500 or visit www.puxton.co.uk

Abbey launches Christmas market

WhaT’s On (Photograph courtesy of Rosalind Furlong)

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nEW for Christmas 2019 at Glastonbury Abbey is a festive market complete with Santa. Around 25 stalls will be set up in the Abbot’s Kitchen field at the abbey for the weekend of December 14th and 15th with entry to the abbey by donation from midday until it closes at 4pm. the market continues under starlight until 7pm with free entry via Magdalene Street from 4pm. Father Christmas will be visiting from midday until 4pm.

It is the latest new initiative for the abbey which is in the running for four awards. With partners Steamhorse Events, it has been shortlisted for tourism Event of the Year in the Bristol, Bath and Somerset tourism Awards and also Best new Event in the national outdoor Events Association awards.

Events manager Brad Lister is also shortlisted for Event organiser of the Year and night at the Abbey for Best Small Event in the noEA awards taking place in Bath at the end of november.

Brad said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for so many different awards this year and it is an honour to have received regional and national recognition just by being shortlisted. “tickets are going on sale now for 2020 and we will have concerts, theatre and film nights – all of which give people the opportunity to give the gift of summer at Christmas.” l Pre-booking for Santa is essential at www.glastonburyabbey.com

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MendiP TiMes

Shepton’s big weekend

SHEPton Mallet’s popular Lantern Parade on Saturday, December 21st will be followed the next day by a new Victorian Fayre, organised by the team behind the town’s new-look Sunday markets. the Shepton Experience, which launched the first of its markets in november, says the day-long fair will feature stalls, live music, period costume and more. It will run from 10am until 3pm. the Sunday markets are being run by Shepton Mallet Revival CIC, trading as the Shepton Experience which is a “not for profit” community interest company. the company has been set up by a group of Shepton Mallet residents who feel passionate about engaging with the community and wish to see the continued improvement in the community spirit in Shepton Mallet grow further. they are being supported by Shepton Mallet town Council.

Jude Jackson, from the Shepton Experience, said: “Another great weekend in Shepton Mallet to look forward to!”

Another special Sunday market will take place on the last Sunday in February to coincide with the Shepton Snowdrop Festival. l the lantern parade will gather in the town’s Collett Park at a new time of 5pm before makings its way to the Market Place. Lantern making workshops will take place on Saturday, December 7th, Sunday, December 8th and the following weekend.

WhaT’s On

Find the rabbits! Our seasonal competition returns

A LoCAL Cheddar cheese continues to hold its own on the world stage – and once again, we’re delighted to offer readers the chance to win a Christmas hamper featuring this delicious award-winner.

In conjunction with Ford Farm Cheese and Wookey Hole Caves, we’re running our ever-popular (and possibly fiendish) competition to locate the hidden golden rabbits within the December issue of Mendip Times. there are five rabbits to be found – and here’s a clue: one is on the advertisement for Ford Farm’s Cave Aged Cheddar; your task is to find the other four to earn a chance to win a hamper of cheese and wine and a family ticket to Wookey Hole Caves!

Ford Farm’s Cave Aged Cheddars are made using milk from local herds that graze lush west country pastures including the Ashley Chase Estate at Litton Cheney. their cheddars are carried by hand, 200-feet underground into the Wookey Hole Caves under the Mendip Hills where they are left to mature. the constant temperature and humidity of the caves offers ideal conditions for storing and ageing cheddar. the porous nature of the cheese enables it to take on the distinctive earthy and nutty flavours from the surrounding atmosphere. the texture of the cheddar is firm yet brittle to the bite. the flavours are big, robust yet rounded, with sweet and salty, nutty and tangy notes evident. the cave atmosphere bestows the cheddar with a highly-distinctive, earthy flavour.

All of these characteristics have resulted in Wookey Hole Cave Aged Cheddar being recognised for its outstanding quality on the world cheese stage. Just this year, it collected the gold medal for the best uK Farmhouse Cheddar category at the World Cheese Awards in Italy, along with the highly coveted Past Masters trophy at the International Cheese awards at nantwich.

Win a chrisTMas haMPer

Find the five hidden rabbits and tell us exactly where they are located within the December issue of Mendip times.

Please send your answers on a postcard to: Cheese competition, Mendip times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon BS40 7RG. Entries must reach us by Monday, December 9th. the first correct entry chosen will be the winner. the editor’s decision is final. We will endeavour to deliver the hamper to you in time for Christmas.

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

Starts Friday 29th November Starts Friday 6th December Starts Friday 13th December Starts Friday 20th December

EVENT CINEMA FOR DECEMBER

Last Christmas (12A) • Charlies Angels (12A) Knives Out (12A) • 21 Bridges (15) Jumanji The Next Level

Cats (PG) • Star Wars Rise Of Skywalker Les Misérables Saturday 7th 4pm Coppelia Tuesday 10th 7.15pm

The Nutcracker 17th 7.15pm & 23rd 1.30pm

l Book in person l Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk l Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

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Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of less than 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. We may not be able to use entries which are too lengthy or submitted as posters or leaflets. Commercial entries cost £25.

Wednesday november 27th Harptrees History Society "out of the earth – Bath's mineral wealth: coal, stone & clay" talk by Stuart Burroughs 7.30 West Harptree hall BS40 6EB. Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support talk on library services for the disabled & visually impaired. 1.30pm Backwell WI Hall. All welcome.

Thursday november 28th Chew Valley Wildlife Group: “Born to bird 2” by Mya-Rose Craig 7.45pm Chew Magna old School Room, £2.50.

Mendip Society talk “A history of knitting patterns” by Sarah Harris of the Spinning Weal, Clevedon, 2.30pm St James's Church Hall, Winscombe BS25 1BA. Members £2, visitors £3.50.

Westfield Christmas Lights switch-on from 6.30pm, top of Elm tree Ave. Father Christmas, refreshments, carols. organised by parish council.

Mendip Ramblers moderate 7.4m Bradford on Avon. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Friday november 29th Mendip Ramblers moderate 5m Corsley Heath with pub lunch. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Frome Memorial Theatre "Forbidden nights" 7.30pm. tickets £19.50 from 01373 462795 www.fmt.website West Mendip Orchestra: Glinka, Mendelssohn, Borodin, 7.45pm Friends Meeting House, Sidcot, BS25 1Lt.tickets £10, £8, £2 on door.

Friday november 29th to sunday december 1st Nativity & Angels display 10am-12 trinity Westfield Methodist Church. Refreshments. Free knitted angels: radstockwestfieldmethodists.co.uk saturday november 30th and sunday december 1st Lantern Festival workshops 10am-4pm Paul St. Community Rooms Shepton Mallet. Basic lantern making kit £2. u-16s must be supervised www.sheptonlanternfestival.org.uk saturday november 30th Mendip Society walk, moderate 5 miles from Clevedon. Details www.themendipsociety.org.uk Yatton Christmas Fayre 10am-2pm at primary school. Father Christmas arriving in his sleigh at 10.30, coffee & cakes from 10am, lunches from noon. All welcome!

Frome Society for Local Study: the Revised Pevsner for Dorset, by Michael Hill, 2.30pm Assembly Rooms, rear of Frome Memorial theatre, visitors welcome, £3. www.fsls.org.uk ‘iSax’ Saxophone Quartet 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Yatton. £10, members £8 www.yms.org.uk Winscombe Christmas Fair 9.30am-12 Community Centre. Santa’s grotto, craft stalls etc.

Sandford Station Christmas Fayre 2pm Darlisette House, free entrance www.stmonicatrust.org.uk Chew Valley Choral Society Charpentier Messe de Minuit, St Andrew’s Church, Chew Magna, £12 (£6) from 01275 333014 or on door.

Timsbury Hub & Community Library first anniversary, 9.30-12.30pm. Crafts, children’s library hunt, cakes. Local author Katherine Webb at 10.30.

Radstock Museum children's Christmas activities: come dressed as any pantomime character you fancy! www.radstockmuseum.co.uk Candlelight Concert: Somerset Choral Society, Wrington Youth Choir and harpist, 7pm All Saints Church Wrington £10 on door or 01934-843727.

Wooden Reindeer workshops Somerset Rural Life Page 128 • MendiP TiMes • deceMber 2019

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Museum, Glastonbury. Children aged 5-8 with one adult 10.30am–12.30, £40. Child 8-16yrs with adult 1.30pm–4pm, £50. Please book: 01458 831197. sunday december 1st British Heart Foundation Quiz 7.30pm Britannia Inn, Wells. teams of up to four, £2.50pp. Raffle prizes welcome. Please book: terry 01749 672342.

Yeovilton Military Wives Choir Concert 7.30pm Westlands BA20 2DD. tickets £16.50 from 01935 422884 www.westlandsyeovil.co.uk Pensford Nativity Trail launch at 5pm then open Fri, Sat & Sun until Christmas. Donations to church tower. Details: Jane 01761 490234.

Salvation Army Carol Concert 2.30pm nailsea Methodist Church. Admission free. Collection by local Rotary for nailsea Your Cancer Café.

Monday december 2nd Mendip Male Voice Choir with seasonal favourites 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church timsbury BA2 0LG. Mulled wine & mince pies.

Mendip Ramblers leisurely 3m cup of tea walk oakhill: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with bingo, 8pm. non-members welcome.

Tuesday december 3rd Winscombe Christmas Shopping Night – see page 50.

Foreigners in London, from 1520 to 1677 talk by Leslie Primo for the Arts Society Mendip, 11am.

Christmas lunch to follow. Bath & West Show Ground, BA4 6Qn. Guests welcome. Details 01934 862435 www.theartssocietymendip.org.uk Somerset Wildlife Trust Talk Better Birding by Mike Langman, 8pm Caryford Hall, Ansford BA7 7JJ. Adults £3.

Wednesday december 4th Weston Walking Group: Cross, Crook Peak, a hilly 6m. All welcome. Details: www.westonwalkinggroup.co.uk Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers & ex-Carers Christmas buffet lunch 2-3.30pm Backwell WI Hall. new members welcome.

Congresbury Christmas Fair 6pm-8.30, War Memorial Hall. Christmas goods, gifts, jams & chutneys, woodwork, plants etc. tables £5: 01934 832004.

Wednesday december 4th to sunday december 8th Locking’s first Christmas tree Festival 11am-5pm St Augustine's Church BS24 8DA. All welcome!

Carols & seasonal refreshments at 3pm on Saturday.

Free.

Thursday december 5th to saturday december 14th Cinderella, pantomime featuring over 40 local performers at the Merlin theatre, Frome. Details: 01373 465949 or www.merlintheatre.co.uk Thursday december 5th Yatton Cancer café, 2-4pm, St Mary’s Chapter House, for anyone living with cancer, their family and friends. We offer a warm welcome, support, companionship, activities and cake!

Mendip Storytelling Circle: tall tales, myths, legends & riddles. Free, donations, 7.30pm Chewton Mendip village hall, BA3 4nS. Details: Colin mendipstorycircle@gmail.com Storytime free drop-in for 0-5yrs, 10-10.30am Midsomer norton Library BS3 2DP. Chatter Books reading group for 7-11s, 3.354.45pm, register in branch: Midsomer norton Library.

Mendip Ramblers mod 6m walk Street, Dundon Hill, Lollover Hill: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Mendip Society Walk: moderate 4.5m from Wells.

Details: www.themendipsociety.org.uk Bingo 7.30pm Camerton Community Hall. Prizes,

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refreshments, bar. Just turn up: www.camertoncommunityhall.co.uk Churchill Singers Christmas Carols 7.30pm St Leonard’s Church Shipham. Mulled wine & mince pies. Entrance free, donations for Alzheimer’s Research.

Thursday december 5th to saturday december 7th Baltonsborough Players Snow White, 7.30pm village hall. Adults £8, children £4, family (2+2) £18 from nellmritchie@yahoo.co.uk or 01458 850540.

Friday december 6th Cheddar Festive Night – see page 56.

Cate Cody Trio with Jazz for Christmas, 7pm Butcombe village hall, in aid of MInD. Bar & parking. tickets £22, incl. cheese ploughman’s & wine, from 0176 1462269 or georgina.jefferies7@gmail.com Redhill Club Open Mic Night Church Rd, BS40 5SG. Hosted by Jerry Blythe, 07900 587646.

Castle Cary Choir Concert 7.30pm Church of St Peter & St Paul, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5BL. tickets £8 on door, or 01749 342163. Refreshments.

Fundraising for church.

Shared Reading groups, every Friday. Join in or just listen. Glastonbury library 10.30am-12; Wells library 11am -12.30. Details: 0151 7292200.

Coffee Morning Ston Easton VH 10.30-12. Enjoy coffee, cake and a chat.

Redhill Club Open Mic Night 8pm-11pm hosted

by Jerry Blythe: 07900 587646. Free entry, all welcome.

Wrington Dickensian Christmas Fayre – see page 74.

Friday december 6th to sunday december 8th Community Nativity Crib Festival St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells. Fri/Sat 10am-4.30pm, Sun 11am4.30. Supporting Heads up, Christian Aid Christmas Appeal and the church. Refreshments. saturday december 7th and sunday december 8th Christmas Tree Festival Farmborough Church, Sat 10.30am-7pm, Sun 11am-4pm starts with Festival Service. Refreshments, children’s activities. Details: 01761 750840.

Lantern Festival workshops 10am-4pm. Paul St. Community Rooms Shepton Mallet. Basic lantern making kit £2. u16s must be supervised www.sheptonlanternfestival.org.uk saturday december 7th Chew Magna Christmas Fayre, 3-6.30pm, organised by Chew Magna Society and the village primary school.

Somerset Plant Heritage: AGM 12pm, bring & share lunch. talk 2.30pm "the Amazing Story of Plant Evolution" by Greg Morter. Visitors welcome £4, details 01278 451631.

Christmas Words & Music 7.30pm Victoria Methodist Church, Weston BS23 1xY. £5 incl mince pie & coffee. For Action for Children.

Cantati singers Christmas music, 7pm Christ Church, nailsea. tickets, incl light buffet, £8 in advance from 01275 859210, £10 on door. Students £5.

Radstock Museum Christmas Fair 10am-4pm, Free entry, stalls & entertainment. Café open.

Blagdon Christmas Fayre 10am-12 St Andrew's Church.

Frome Memorial Theatre presents "that'll be the day Christmas show" 7.30pm, £26: www.fmt.website Churchill Music Concert, violin, piano, canapés & wine. St John the Baptist Church BS25 5QW. tickets: www.churchillmusic.org.uk/ Christmas Dance, 7.30pm Shipham village hall

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BS25 1SG.Experienced dancers, ticket only: Pat 01934 742853.

Caryford Christmas Craft Market 10am-3pm Ansford Academy BA7 7JJ. Quality local crafts. Free entry.

Wells Repair Café 10am-12.45 St thomas' Church Hall BA5 2uZ. Bring items, watch & learn from our repairers. Stalls & refreshments www.sustainablewells.org.uk Mendip Society Walk: easy 5m near West Harptree. Details: www.themendipsociety.org.uk The Messiah: Wells Cathedral oratorio with Music for Awhile, 7pm. tickets £14-£30 from 01749 834483 or www.wcos.org.uk Costanzi Consort In Dulci Jubilo 7.30pm All Saints Church, Weston-s-Mare. £12, Students £5, u16s free.

A Very Victorian Christmas Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury 10am–5pm. usual admission fees. Santa’s Grotto £5, booking essential: 01458 831197.

Kingston Seymour Market 10am-12 village hall.

Fairtrade goods, cakes, crafts. tables £2: 01934 830553.

Publow Christmas Market 10am-2pm All Saints Church with St John’s folk band, children’s activities, tower tours, stalls & refreshments. sunday december 8th Better than Chocolate Christmas Concert, with Men of Chew,7pm All Saints Church, Publow. tickets £6, children £5 from betterthanchocolatechoir@gmail.com Sustainable Witham Friary Christmas fair 11am2pm village hall, BA11 5HF. Community café, local craft stalls and ideas for a sustainable Christmas.

Mendip Ramblers mod 11m walk East & West Pennard, Plot Street: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Maesbury Singers Concert of Christmas music, with a harp, 7.30pm Castle Cary Church. tickets £10/5 on door or 01761 232042. sunday december 8th to sunday december 22nd Bishop’s Palace, Wells, Christmas at the Palace, with Father Christmas 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk Monday december 9th Mendip Folk Dance Club 8pm St James Church hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. no experience necessary. Details 01934 742853.

Potpourri of Bristol Archive Film shown by Clive Burlton to nailsea & District Local History Society.

7.45pm, Green Lecture Room, nailsea School.

Visitors £2 www.ndlhs.org.uk.

Tuesday december 10th Mendip Society talk “the inventor of national Parks: who was John Muir?” by terry Gifford, 2.30pm Wells Museum BA5 2uE. Members £2, Visitors £3.50. Free refreshment.

Winscombe Community Singers Christmas Concert 7.30pm St James’ Church BS25 1Bx. Children free, Adults £5 in aid of Vine Counselling.

Congresbury Over-60s Club 2.30-4pm with the Reflections Singers. War Memorial Hall. Details: 01934 832004.

Wednesday december 11th Wedmore by Lamplight – see page 92.

Weston Walking Group: Rodney Stoke recce moderate 5.7m, all welcome. Details: www.westonwalkinggroup.co.uk Harptrees History Society talk & supper Jane Bennett & Geoff King Dress like a Georgian, 7.30pm West Harptree hall BS40 6EB. tickets £7.50 booking essential: 01761 221758 or 221941.

Glastonbury Male Voice Choir’s Christmas Concert 8pm Glastonbury town Hall with mince pies & wine. tickets from tIC. Nailsea Horticultural Society Christmas social

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evening: beetle drive, carols and festive refreshments. 7.30pm united Reformed Church Hall. Members £2, visitors £3.

Wells Civic Society seasonal celebration plus BA5 awards, Wells and Mendip Museum, 7.30pm.

Thursday december 12th Storytime for 0-5yrs, 10-10.30am Midsomer norton Library BS3 2DP. Free.

Mendip Ramblers mod 6.5miles Stratton-on-theFosse, Pitcot, Edford: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Baubles & Brass with Midsomer norton & Radstock Silver Band, 7.30pm St thomas’ Church, Wells BA5 2uZ. £7.50 incl. refreshments, from Parish office or on the door.

Friday december 13th Barn Dancing 7.30pm Ditcheat Jubilee Hall, £4.

Music by Jeroka. All welcome. Caller Peter Bolton: 01749 672911.

Castle Cary Choir Concert 7.30pm Methodist Church, north St, Castle Cary. £8 on door, refreshments included. Fundraising for the church and choir. saturday december 14th Savannah Jazz Band: toe-tapping new orleans Jazz, Cossington village hall tA7 8Jn. £10 from 01278 451187 Rogercollett.sounds@talktalk.net For Bridgwater Hospital League of Friends.

Festive Coffee Morning with gift sale 10am-12 St Mary’s Church timsbury BA2 0LG.All welcome.

Spectra Musica Concert 7.30pm St Luke & St teresa's Church, Wincanton,£12 incl refreshments from 01963 350160, and on door.

Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws dvds & cds. saturday december 14th and sunday december 15th Christmas Market Glastonbury Abbey, 12-7pm.

Santa’s grotto open until 4pm.

Lantern Festival workshops 10am-4pm. Paul St. Community Rooms Shepton Mallet. Basic lantern making kit £2. u16s must be supervised www.sheptonlanternfestival.org.uk Castle Cary exhibition of Christmas Stars, stalls of decorations & Christmas fare, 10am-4pm All Saints’ Church. Carol Service 4pm Sunday. sunday december 15th Mendip Ramblers mod 10m from Charterhouse.

Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Burnham & Highbridge Band Concert 7pm Princess theatre. tickets £7, £6 from 01278 784464 or www.princesstheatreburnhamtickets.co.uk Christmas Lunch Camerton Community Hall with Bath Chef de Party, 1pm. £14, u11's £7. to book: 07866 112689 www.camertoncommunityhall.co.uk Croscombe Christmas Market 10am-2pm village hall BA5 3RA. over 26 stalls, hand-made festive gifts & produce.

Midsomer Choral Society music of reflection and celebration, 7.30pm St John's Church Midsomer norton. £12.50 www.ticketsource.co.uk/msc or 07864 628932.

Chew Valley Santa Scramble, Chew Valley School. Details: www,chewvalley santa scramble.co.uk

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Monday december 16th “Wildlife Photography” talk by Joshua Harris for timsbury natural History Group, 7.30pm Conygre Hall. Visitors welcome, £3.

Mendip Folk Dance Club Christmas Party 8pm St James Church hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. American supper. Details 01934 742853.

Costanzi Consort Christmas Carols 7.30pm Weston Museum www.costanziconsort.org.uk Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with bingo, 8pm. non-members welcome.

Tuesday december 17th Congresbury Singers' Christmas Concert 7.30pm St Andrew's Church 7.30pm, £8 on door.

Wednesday december 18th Weston Walking Group: Churchstanton recce moderate 7.5m all welcome. Details: www.westonwalkinggroup.co.uk Thursday december 19th Glastonbury Holy Thorn cutting ceremony by children from St John’s Infants School. St John’s Church, Glastonbury. 10.30am. All welcome.

Storytime for 0-5yrs, 10-10.30am Midsomer norton Library BS3 2DP. Free.

Bingo 7.30pm Camerton Community Hall. Prizes, refreshments, bar. Just turn up: www.camertoncommunityhall.co.uk saturday december 21st Claverham Village Market 10am-12, village hall, Bishops Rd. Christmas gifts, as well as all the usual foods, crafts & books. Details 01934 838017.

Shepton Mallet Illuminated Lantern Festival meet 5pm Collett Park bandstand for procession to Market Square. Free: www.sheptonlanternfestival.org.uk Thursday december 26th Mendip Ramblers moderate 5m walk from Coleford. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk saturday 28th Mendip Society Walk: a hard 4m from Cheddar.

Details: www.themendipsociety.org.uk sunday december 29th Mendip Ramblers mod 9m walk Castle Cary, Wyke Champflower, Bruton: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Redhill Club Classic Car Gathering 10am-12noon on the Recreation field. Free entry all welcome. Hot dogs, tea & coffee in the village hall.

Tuesday december 31st New Year’s Eve Barn Dance, Ditcheat Jubilee Hall 8.30pm. Caller Peter Bolton, band Jeroka. Bring & share supper, tickets £8 from 01749 672911.

Redhill Club Family Fancy Dress Party from 7pm. Music for all ages. Buffet. Free entry, all welcome (fancy dress optional) Wednesday January 1st Mendip Ramblers mod 6m walk around Cheddar & Shute Shelve: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Priston New Year Celebration: duck race at 11am followed by dancing, silver band, choir, mummers play and folk music. Details: colinemmett@gmail.com

deceMber crOssWOrd sOluTiOn

ACROSS: 7. Banwell 9. Margate 10. twins 11. Steinways 12. Characteristics 13.

Express 16. Eskimos 19. norton Malreward 20. transport 23. Spode 24. Valises 26. oakhill. DOWN: 1. obstacle 2. Persuade 3. Closet 4. Wrongs 5. Satanism 6. Senses 8. naira 9. Mcenroe 14. Portable 15. Symbols 17. Keepsake 18. Suddenly 19. native 20. obsess 21. Litton 22. Aioli MendiP TiMes • deceMber 2019 • Page 129

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Christmas at the Bishop’s Palace tHE Bishop’s Palace in Wells will once again be celebrating the magic of the Christmas season over two weeks of festive fun!

From December 8th-23rd the rooms of the medieval palace building will each be adorned with decorations on a different theme from medieval through Victorian to nordic. the entrance hall will be warmed by a roaring fire and seasonal greenery and foliage from the palace gardens will be used to create stunning adornments to complement the historic interiors.

For younger visitors, a ticket can be bought to visit Father and Mother Christmas. there will also be a Christmas-themed family trail which will take visitors through the palace and gardens, leading to a traditional nativity scene at the end.

Family Christmas craft sessions will be taking place daily upstairs at the palace, giving children the chance to create handmade decorations, perfect as a gift to granny or to adorn their own tree. Check the website for further details about timings.

In addition, on Saturday, December 14th and 21st Wells theatre Company will be performing a costumed reading of Dickens’ atmospheric tale A Christmas Carol in the entrance hall at 11am and 2pm. the shows will last around an hour and will involve costumed actors, musicians and carol singers bringing this timeless tale to life in a wholly unique way.

Each weekend there will be a selection of musical performances in the chapel, based on Christmas themes and the café will be selling mulled wine and mince pies to get you in the Christmas spirit.

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Entrance to Christmas at the Palace is included in standard admission. Father Christmas tickets are £10 per child and include admission for the child, who must be accompanied by a paying adult/member.

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