IT’Sbeen a hectic month with local festivals and fetes, as well as big events like Priddy Folk Festival and Glastonbury.
We’ve been to lots of them, including Rising Waters, a wonderful community production staged by Valley Arts.
We preview big events yet to come like the Mid-Somerset and Frome Shows and Wells Festival of Literature.
Caving makes a welcome return this month, with a new column from members of the Mendip Cave Registry and Archive, our first since the death of Phil Hendy.
We also report on an important new caving exhibition at the Wells and Mendip Museum, featuring the work of caving pioneer, Herbert Balch.
We are always pleased to get positive feedback from both advertisers and readers. Here’s one example about us:
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September 2024 deadline:
Friday 16th August
Published: Tuesday 27th August
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Design and origination
Election news
THEelection wasn’t just a big day for Labour – Hazel Tovey celebrated being a poll clerk for 75 years, taking up her position, as usual, in Holy Trinity Church in Chantry.
A passionate nature lover and gardener, she writes her “Jottings from a Country Churchyard” in the parish magazine every month. She worked at the former Rode Bird Garden for 27 years.
Now in her 90s, she thinks this might have been her last election behind her desk in the church.
New sign points the way
JOHNTennant, chair of the Monarch’s Way Association and volunteers Adrian I’Anson, Chris Billinghurst and Graham Allen, presented Wells City Council with one of the new signs for the Monarch’s Way at Wells Recreation Ground, in front of the Bishop’s Barn.
The map shows the route taken by King Charles 2nd when he fled to the south coast to get to France, after his defeat by Oliver Cromwell at the Battle of Worcester, passing through Wells.
Pictured receiving the sign are Cllr Jasmine Browne, Mayor of Wells, Cllr Philip Welch, chair of the Bishop’s Barn and Recreation Ground Open Spaces Committee and Cllr Denise Denis, chair of Wells Planning Committee.
Church building bought for community hub
THE former Trinity Methodist Church in Radstock is to be converted into a community hub as part of a deal to save the building for local use.
Since the last service took place in January 2022, Radstock Town Council has worked with Bath & North East Somerset Council, the church trustees, interested residents, groups and charities to secure the future of the building. which will in future be known as the “Trinity Community Hub” with aspirations to create a community space for local groups and residents situated in the heart of the town.
Radstock and B&NES’s regeneration team have worked to create an action plan focussing on the regeneration of the town centre. One of the key aims of the plan is to protect and develop a central space for the community and expand and improve local services to provide a warm, welcoming and fully accessible space.
Over the last two years, work has been carried out to support the future development and use of the building. This includes architectural drawings and feasibility studies. Relocation of the Town Council’s operations, including the Community Library, to the building will ensure the long-term viability of Trinity
church first opened in 1902
Community Hub.
Acquisition of the building has been made possible by a Public Works Board Loan, allocation of funds from the Community Infrastructure Levy and grants from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The town council is now looking for further funding to support the project.
The
MENDIP TIMES
Nature festival
CHEWValley Nature Recovery Network held their inaugural Chew Valley NatureFest at Chew Valley School. The event was a resounding success, drawing over 420 visitors and featuring more than 20 interactive stalls and exhibitions.
One of the highlights was a stall where children crafted over 50 bee hotels to take home. Stallholders themselves said they benefitted from the hugely valuable opportunity to network with other environmental and conservation groups working in the Chew Valley.
The organisation hopes to build on this success in the coming years and, as NatureFest continues to grow, it promises to be a cornerstone event for the Chew Valley.
The event was made possible through the support of Yeo Valley Organics; Liz's Logs; Chew Valley ward councillor Dave Harding's Empowerment Fund and Arthur David.
Field transformed
NATURALhistory presenter Mike Dilger led proceedings at the official opening of Chew Magna Primary’s newly developed school field.
Mike unveiled an improved nature and pond area, a new viewing tower, The Caterpillar – a new tyre play area, a mud kitchen named Chew Cafe, and a revamped climbing frame.
Altogether, the project has taken ten months of planning and hard work – but there is still more to do. Future plans include a compost toilet and screening around the tower, and fundraising will continue for these additions.
Kate Parker, chair of the fundraising committee, said: “It has been fabulous to see children showing their families the new field. They are excited to be able to use the field at lunchtimes in the good weather.
“The younger classes will now resume their Friday Forest School sessions, and some of the after-school sports clubs will also be making the most of the new facilities.”
Photo competition
ASpart of Somerset Wildlife Trust’s ongoing 60th anniversary celebrations, nature lovers of all ages are being encouraged to submit entries to the charity’s special anniversary photography competition.
Participants are being asked to capture the spirit of Somerset in one of three categories: Landscapes and Habitats, Nature Reserves, and Wildlife. The closing date is September 1st.
SOMERSET Council is calling out to anyone who has recently planted or plans to plant trees, to “root for Somerset’”and add them to the Somerset Tree Planting Register.
As part of the 10-year Somerset Tree Strategy launched last June, developed with partners like the Woodland Trust and the Environment Agency, the goal is to plant 240 hectares (93 square miles) of new trees across Somerset each year until 2033 to get the county’s tree coverage to at least the national average.
The Somerset Tree Planting Register will help track these important tree-planting goals. The strategy revealed that the county’s tree cover is currently 5% below the national average of 13%, at just 8%. To address this shortfall, the
council is implementing several successful woodland creation projects across the county. However, due to diseases, pests, pathogens (bacteria, fungi, and viruses), and other factors, it says Somerset is also losing a significant number of trees.
Councillor Dixie Darch, Lead Member for Environment and Climate Change said: “The Somerset Tree Strategy was launched last year in recognition of how important trees are to the Somerset landscape, the environment, and how that impacts the lives of residents, ecology, and society. It belongs to us all.”
The council says it csn help anyone considering planting trees in the next tree planting season, from October 2024 to March 2025 start planning now. The council has two Woodland Creation Officers, who are externally funded by the Woodland Acceleration Fund – they can offer a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise to help you get the right trees planted in the right place for the right reasons.
Take action. Few of us will have the land itself, but many of us will be involved in schools, colleges, parish councils, community groups, farms, or know others who might have land that is suitable for tree planting. If you, or an organisation you are involved with, have an interest in planting trees and need expert advice, we encourage you to get in touch. Our woodland creation team can also help with signposting to national grant funding.
New date for Frome’s free green gathering
FROME’s Big Green Summer Meetup, which was rained off in June, has been rescheduled for Thursday, August, 1st in the town’s Victoria Park.
The Big Green Summer, hosted by Green and Healthy Frome and Sustainable Frome, offers a chance to talk to others about climate action and share ideas. It runs from 4-6pm and admission is free.
Town councillor, Fiona Barrows, said: “The Big Green Summer Meet Up is a chance to get together and celebrate all the wonderful green and sustainable initiatives happening in Frome, find out what everyone is up to and make new connections. There’s no agenda, and it will be a sociable and fun event hopefully! With the bad news we often hear in the
media about climate change, it can feel like our small contributions don’t make a difference, but we hope that bringing everyone together will energise and inspire people, and ensure Frome keeps up its amazing, positive climate action.”
Tickets for the event are free, with a free
vegan ice cream for everyone who books a ticket in advance. To mark the occasion, organisers are planning a drone photo on the day and are asking people to wear white if they want to take part.
To book, visit: https://bit.ly/big-green-meet-august24
Climate action in Frome
Nettles have so many uses
MOST of us realise that nettles are edible and do you good, but we may be reluctant to eat them because they sting! The sting disappears once the nettle is cooked. In fact, nettles provide us with iron, vitamins (B, C) flavonoids, proteins and other essential minerals too.
For much the same nutritional reasons, nettles make an ideal plant food especially for use in the greenhouse. They have more nitrogen and less potassium than comfrey, so they are best for feeding leafy greens such as salad leaves and brassicas. Select younger leaves, as they contain more nitrogen and less tough cellulose and lignin, so they break down quickly in water.
Fill a container half to three quarters full with leaves, top up with water, then cover it and wait 3-4 weeks, then strain the solution. The resultant mixture may need to be diluted to the colour of weak tea.
However even more important is that most of our favourite butterflies depend on nettles as the ONLY food for their caterpillars. Here they are – the Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral and Painted Lady. Sometimes Comma butterflies lay their eggs on nettles too as do several types of moth.
Thus, they are vital for the lives of our most well-known butterflies. The adults are not nearly so fussy and will take nectar from a wide variety of flowers! The caterpillars are really not even fond of the small nettle or dead nettles so it would be good to boost the declining numbers of these beautiful insects by providing a patch of nettles in a sunny corner of the garden.
I have read that it is possible to provide nettles in pots but Butterfly Conservation says that this does not really work because they need a much larger and wilder area safer from predators.
Being unaffected by their well-known sting, nettles are a good choice for caterpillars because they offer protection from predators including herbivores such as cattle, sheep and deer, all of which are keen to avoid the sting.
Birds too love to find caterpillars especially when they are feeding youngsters. I have read that each chick can eat 100 caterpillars a day so five chicks would need 500 caterpillars. Exhausting work and no wonder a butterfly needs to lay so many eggs.
The eggs and larvae of these butterfly species are present on nettles between April and June, with adults emerging between
May and October. Insects employ various ways to survive. Female butterflies lay many, many eggs during their short life to ensure that even a small number of these eggs will survive.
Caterpillars (butterfly larvae) hatch from eggs. The eggs are usually laid in a protected location on the nettles that the soonto-be caterpillar will eat. Often, as they grow, the masses of larvae surround themselves in silk webbing to provide protection, so that they don't become a feast for passing birds. It's important to treat nettles like any other garden plant if you are growing for the benefit of butterflies. Cut them regularly to get good fresh growth from the nettles. March and October are good months but ensure that there are no eggs or larvae on the leaves. Watch out for any leaves that are curled or folded in any way. Something is going on inside!
Just one example. The Peacock butterfly lays her eggs in batches of 400 eggs, a process that may take up to two hours. She will choose the middle of a large nettle patch often next to a woodland edge or hedgerow. After two weeks or so the first larvae (or instars) hatch and start to build a communal web around themselves for protection whilst eating day and night.
As they grow they will move on to new leaves. They moult again into the second instar which is twice the size of the first. After as little as four days the larvae moult into the third stage still in their communal web.
They eat by day and night and when one leaf is eaten, they move on to a new one and make a new web. After a week the larvae moult into a fourth stage or instar and a new web is made.
Altogether there are five instars. The caterpillar is now about 42 millimetres long and fully grown and must individually start looking for a place to pupate. Once a site has been found the larva will spin a silk pad from which it hangs head down in a J shape.
After about two weeks the pupa colours up when the wings of the adult are clearly seen through the pupal case before the actual butterfly emerges if it has been very fortunate.
DIANA REDFERN
Red Admiral
Getting childen interested in agriculture
I’Msure children breathe a collective sigh of relief at this time of year when their school year finishes. Other than the last day of term another highlight for many is the chance to visit a FarmLink farm. FarmLink has had another excellent year hosting over 25,000 school children on farms, talking to them in school and lending their schools incubators so they can hatch eggs and see baby chicks first hand.
With the exception of the Covid year and its fall-out, FarmLink contacts have grown year on year since its inception over 20 years ago. The deliverers based in North Somerset, Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Staffordshire do a brilliant job teaching children about farming, food and the environment.
The concept of FarmLink is to explain to the children where their food comes from, how it is produced and how their consumer decisions impact the environment. They aren’t told what they should do, they are given the information so they can make an informed decision about what they do or don’t eat in the future
and how that fits with the environment.
In some cases, it also sows the seed of a career in the food chain. Retired farm manager Nick Baker aka “Farmer Nick” was the first deliverer for FarmLink and an institution with many North Somerset school children.
One pupil in particular was inspired by him and at ten years old decided he wanted to be a farmer. He went to secondary school, agricultural college and when he left started working on a farm. There are lots of other opportunities for great careers in the food chain. It’s not just about working on a farm. It could be anything to do with food and the environment as well.
The more FarmLink and our great industry can do to help young people understand what we do and maybe get them involved the better. We have a new Government and as with anyone new they invariably have a new broom to sweep things clean.
It will be interesting to see if there is a move away from focussing heavily on the environment and back towards food security.
The new Secretary of State for the Environment hasn’t made any big announcements yet so we will have to wait and see.
Volunteer farmers
THE Community Farm above Chew Valley Lake is now operating community farmer days until November, inviting people to help with planting, weeding and harvesting.
Last year volunteers planted miles of leeks, onions and shallots, as well as harvesting tonnes of colourful squash, apples, tomatoes, cucumbers and beans, to name a few.
It says: “Set over 15 acres, overlooking the gorgeous Chew Valley Lake, there’s no better place to try out being a farmer for the day!”
Nick Green is Farms Director for Alvis Bros Ltd based at Lye Cross Farm. As well as the business, he is involved with a number of local and national farming charities.
One way of controlling bracken
WEput a post on our social media recently about volunteers crushing bracken. It generated a lot of responses! Bracken crushing is a conservation technique used during summer to conserve the UK's rare limestone grasslands. Why crush bracken manually?
Bracken's dominance threatens many species and habitats. Our Nature Recovery tasks focus on both volunteer well-being and habitat management. Although machinery could expedite the work, our goal is community engagement. We also avoid mechanical methods to preserve contractor jobs.
Our aim is a habitat mosaic. By crushing repeatedly in one area, bracken's dominance is reduced, not eradicated. This method has successfully restored flower-rich grasslands, attracting pollinators and wildlife. Is it harmful to people?
We crush in June/July before the bracken forms “sporangia”— the spore-carrying orange dots under the leaves. Inhaling spores is a health risk, though significant exposure over many years is necessary for impact.
We protect our volunteers by having them wear gloves and long trousers to avoid contact with bracken sap, another
potential health risk. While recent studies suggest a carcinogenic risk from consuming bracken or its chemical contaminants, our volunteers are not exposed to this risk. Is it harmful to other flora and fauna?
Sites chosen for bracken crushing by our Nature Recovery Ranger, a trained ecologist, are typically already disturbed by human and dog activity, which diminishes the presence of ground-nesting birds. The gentle crushing allows volunteers to carefully interact with the environment, minimizing harm to other species.
Bracken crushing
Traditional fun in Chew Magna
Pictured (l to r) Catherine Taylor, Chris Lovell and Pat Beaumont
Tom Cook on the barbecue
The plant stall was busy
Serving teas Lynette Cox and Diana Wheatley-Price
A sack race gets underway
Stanton Drew Handbell Group
An egg and spoon race
Michelle Bowell (left) and Amber Nolan Rainbow and Brownie leaders
Wrington’s day out
Wrington WI were serving teas
Dr Marie Midgley with Wrington Country Market members (l to r) Jeanette Wray, Sue Simmons and Pauline Jeffries. The market is on Fridays 9.45-11am
Wrington Beavers ran the stocks and Splat the Rat
Splat the rat
Making candyfloss
The Mendip Mindbender
1 Small songbirds (8)
5 Not on the chart (3,3)
9 Take-on the enemy again (2-6) 10 Slim and slender (6) 12 Immunity (9)
13 Fantastic centre in seaside resort (5) 14 Publicity before General Election starts for Somerset group leader (4)
16 Somerset location for the Union of Mormon’s? (7)
19 River Amazon reported on the radio (7)
21 Where peas are found (4)
24 Tea and chocolates (5)
25 Fine China (9)
27 Vintage motorcycle found near homicidal half of town (6)
28 Dealer in contraband (8)
29 Hi-Fi (6)
30 Issues publications (8)
1 14A was one of these (6)
2 An intoxicating cigarette (6)
3 A promotion (3-2)
4 Music played by Alexander’s band (7)
6 Pentagonal (4,5)
7 Woman mis-speaking with chronic effect (8)
8 Reserve in advance (8)
11 Owns dodgy white stuff (4)
15 Attire Morse requires collar & tie perhaps? (5,4)
17 Bond calls secret circles (3,5)
18 Maintain jam (8)
20 Drink like a fish (4)
21 Monumental performance from The Pharoahs set at Glasto (7)
22 Harry goes to lavatory for a cry (6)
23 Musical beginnings (6)
26 One fat lady’s figure gets crew (5)
By
Fairlight Cryptic Clues are in italics
Cameley school fete
Lily Spears accepting her prize from Lucie Mittens on the spinning wheel
Dexter enjoying a drink at the raffle stall with (l to r) Karen Mills and Katie Turton
Hannah Johnson painting the face of Jess Lester, with Lizzie and Grace standing behind
The fishing competition
School governor Derrick Wobey holding the lucky dip bag ready for Octavia and Savannah
Isla was selling ducks
Waiting their turn for the spinning wheel
With KATY BEAUCHAMP
To BBQ or not to BBQ? That is the question
Much as we all love to be sitting outside in the sunshine sharing drinks, nibbles – and hopefully a barbeque – with friends and family, it’ll be a brave person who decides to organise an outside gathering this summer. But fear not – these savoury recipes work equally well in an oven or on the barbie and the “shortbread” is a recipe that I guarantee you’ll return to time and time again . . . too early to think about Halloween and Bonfire Night?!?
COURGETTE BRUSCHETTA
Serve the courgettes with the kebabs for a flavoursome main course, inside or out
METHOD
Slice the courgettes lengthwise and, using a teaspoon, scrape a small channel of flesh out from top to bottom, rub with olive oil and season. Griddle on the bbq or roast in the oven until soft and slightly charred.
For the filling, mix all the topping ingredients together (if using grated halloumi, fry this until crispy,) adding a
PORK AND PINEAPPLE KEBABS
METHOD
Tip all the marinade ingredients into a plastic ziplock bag and smoosh it around. Cut the pork into cubes and each spring onion into two or three big pieces (you can use the green leftover tops finely chopped in the first recipe). Put all the remaining ingredients into the bag and scrunch the marinade around (you can do this the day before and keep it in the fridge). When you’re ready to cook, thread onto a skewer and griddle on the bbq until cooked, using the leftover marinade to baste them. Alternatively, you can tip the contents
INGREDIENTS
(Makes eight half courgettes)
4 medium-sized courgettes FOR THE TOPPING
4 tomatoes, finely chopped
1/2 cucumber finely diced
50g sweetcorn
4 spring onions, finely chopped
10g chopped fresh herbs, any you have to hand
50g grated halloumi or 60g of crumbled feta
Olive oil
2tbs sweet chilli sauce or hot sauce according to taste
tbs of chilli sauce through when it’s crispy, then stir through the chopped veg. Season the whole lot and stir through the rest of the chilli sauce. Pile up on top of the courgettes and serve as a starter or a side with the next recipe.
INGREDIENTS
(Makes 12)
400g pork loin chops
200g pineapple cubes, fresh or tinned
Bunch of fat spring onions
One pepper (any colour) chopped
MARINADE
2tbs olive oil
2 tbs maple syrup or honey
2tbs soy sauce
Tsp garlic granules
2tbs sweet chilli sauce or hot sauce
of the bag into a roasting tray and bake in the oven for 40 mins. Serve with the courgettes and some garlic bread.
QUICK AND EASY SHORTBREAD
This cornflour-based shortbread is a winner every time
When I was introduced to this recipe, I wasn’t sure they would be at all nice, what with so much cornflour in them, but they were delicious! As with most traditional shortbread recipes, only three ingredients are required.
When I make them next, I’ll make them flatter and sandwich two together with buttercream!
l This recipe uses only about a third of a tin of condensed milk, but you can freeze the rest – I’ll be using it in a recipe next month for banana cake.
METHOD
Mix ingredients together. Roll the dough into 20 walnut-sized balls, place on a baking tray and press down with a fork. Bake at 180˚C for 20mins until slightly golden.
INGREDIENTS
(Makes 20)
150ml sweetened condensed milk (which is only about a third of the tin but you can freeze the rest)
260g cornflour
120g melted butter
The Market Kitchen goes from strength to strength
TWO years after opening The Market Kitchen café in Churchill, in the former football club bar, owner James Kennedy would like to expand this incredibly popular space.
James has approached the parish council who will consider the option to extend the community club in due course to give him more space and he’s planning to add evening meals to the popular breakfasts and lunches that he currently serves.
That could mean adding to the eight staff that he now employs both in the café and his outside catering business, which he started in 2012, offering hog roasts, barbecues and buffets.
James was born and brought up in the village, where his mum Paula and late father, Jim, had the Churchill Inn for 15 years. He reckons the pub chef’s passion for food rubbed off on him. At the same time, he was volunteering at the Community Farm above Chew Valley Lake.
It now supplies his organic salad and vegetables. Other suppliers are also local and include organic milk and rare breed sausages.
Breakfast sandwiches start at £6, with a tea £2.50; a lunchtime baked potato is £8.50; salads £9; the wide range of house bakes and cakes are all made in-house. There are also daily specials and James is currently preparing a revised menu to include some classics, such as eggs benedict and croque monsieur.
He said: “The place needed a lot of work. I spent all of my savings and mum’s renovating it. The parish council put a lot of faith in us.”
The catering business used to be based in Bristol, but he’s now moved that into the village.
Two years after opening the café it has the highest rating locally on Google.
All Day Breakfast
Our breakfasts are cooked from scratch using the best ingredients we can get our hands on. Carefully cooked without a deep fat fryer in sight
Toasted Sandwiches
Generously filled with some lovely local ingredients. Beef brisket with smoked cheddar and onion chutney, Chicken Club or Feta, roast vegetable and red pepper hummus to name a few
Salads and Specials
A range of salads and regularly changing specials, made using some lovely local and organic produce. “The best chicken & bacon salad in North Somerset” according to Don G on Google reviews June 2024
Cakes and Bakes
We make and bake a wide range of cakes in store along with a selection of our own savoury pastries. All of our food is available to eat in or take away www.TheMarketKitchen.co.uk
WILD
FOOD
Beady little eyes
With ADRIAN BOOTS
THEsummer can be an interesting time of the year for wild food foraging. This year the weather is messing with flowering and fruiting, plus the friendly competition with the garden birds is hotting up. Summer fruits might not be quite ripe for us but that is no problem for our avian friends. Particularly the blackbirds.
It’s a good job they are one of my favourite birds – they stick with us all year round, have the best songs and I love watching them forage under leaves with so much diligence and energy. They know all the tricks and are wonderfully successful. They’ve already had most of my blackcurrants and redcurrants and we are about 50/50 on my raspberries (only because the berries hide under the leaves) so I feel a trade in some wild fruits is only fair.
The real trick is to find fruits that the birds haven’t noticed yet, ones that can sometimes be hidden from beady little eyes: wild cherries.
Wild cherry (Prunus avium) is a large tree with some examples up to an impressive 30m. They have reddish-brown bark with horizontal rows of raised pores that peel giving it a rather translucent quality. The oval leaves alternate and are toothed like a saw.
The wonderful spring blossom has five white petals in clusters, appearing April to May. The fruits are smaller and darker than cultivated cherry up to 2cm with a depression on their apex, at their best July to August. Look for them in woods and hedges all over the UK.
They (cherries not birds) are best either cooked with plenty of sugar or put in booze, again with yet more sugar. Nothing like a good cherry brandy, delicious as a quick nip on an afternoon walk or used to flavour fruity puddings, pies and trifle.
First remove the stones of course, no need for any unplanned dental work. It really is a bit of pot luck whether wild cherries are either bitter or not too bitter (thus the sugar). I wonder if the birds know which are the sweetest ones and take those first, leaving only the bitter ones for us?
It would not surprise me, particularly given the wild cherry’s Latin name. Even in my somewhat imaginary foraging for wild fruits competition, it appears the clever blackbird is always going to be the winner.
Adrian Boots is a Landscape Ecologist and expert forager running wild food forays, events and activities. Please visit: www.hedgerowcottage.co.uk for more information or email him at: hello@hedgerowcottage.co.uk
GARDEN FOOD
Slow growth
With CHARLES DOWDING
JULY has been cool and less sunny than normal. No surprise because that’s like almost every month recently. Many summer vegetables are struggling, because they need warmth to grow successfully. I’m dismayed by the slow growth of cucumbers, courgettes, and climbing beans for example. No gluts ahead!
New sowings
August is a second spring, just what we need. Many great sowings you can make lead to a need to find space for all the lovely plants! Have a go at interplanting some of them between any vegetables which will finish within three to four weeks.
Sow true spinach (rather than “perpetual” leaf beet) before mid-August, for harvests through autumn. Then a little in winter, if mild, and continuing into spring.
Turnips! Many people, including myself, do not like the flavour of turnips. However, if you can find seed of Tokyo Cross F1, they are sweeter and denser, growing well from multi-sowing five seeds per cell, aiming for four plants. Transplant at two to three weeks old, with mesh over against cabbage root-fly.
Sow salad rocket, mizuna, mustards, pak choi and any other brassica salads including land cress, preferably under cover to reduce damage from flea beetles. You can transplant them at 23 weeks old. Cover with mesh for the first 3-4 weeks, against insects.
Chinese cabbage, for autumn hearting, is best sown before August 8th. And sow parsley, dill and coriander
If you can keep insects off summer brassicas, they should grow fast. Even as second plantings, after a first harvest. I do not add compost. In undisturbed soil, they are quick to grow.
Weeds
Because of the rain, many weeds are germinating, including from seeds that blew in. Keep pulling all new weeds when small. Check for and remove weeds among larger vegetables, where they are less visible.
They are not competing with these larger plants, but if they drop seeds, that leads to much time wasted on weeding.
Couch grass is different, you need to keep pulling new shoots, or use a trowel to remove the near-surface stolons. With no dig surface mulching, the soft surface makes this easier.
Slugs
They persist and insist, do a slug patrol at dusk to collect molluscs. And/or lay a plank of wood on a bed or path, to check every morning and then remove what you find. You may be surprised.
Charles Dowding has made no dig popular with millions of readers and viewers. Currently he grows vegetables in Somerset. He has written 14 books and gives talks plus courses at home and abroad.
Village veg patch
PAULTONhas a new community veg patch, thanks to Ellie Harle and her father Josef, who have run the village’s Red Lion pub for the last two years.
They’ve transformed a piece of waste land at the back of the pub, with the help of villagers and with support from Avon Wildlife Trust.
A work party meets every other Saturday. Crops are left out, available to anyone who might need to collect some free of charge. Anyone is welcome to visit the garden when the work parties are there – a pond and wildlife garden are next.
Ellie and her dad are both Paulton born and bred. Ellie worked
OPEN:
Noon-11pm (Mon-Sat) • Noon-10pm (Sun)
Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faukland, Radstock, BA3 5XF.
T: 01225 962669
E: info@tuckersgraveinn.co.uk
W: www.tuckersgraveinn.co.uk
in social media and advertising and her dad was a driving instructor before they decided to take on the pub.
They’ve also signed a five-year lease on the old British Legion Club next door and hope to see it used by various groups –perhaps even seeing the return of snooker and billiards.
Tucker’s Grave Inn –the ONLY place to be this August
Sat, July 27th The Groove Jacks: 8.30pm Sat, Aug 3rd The Zero Hour: 8.30pm Fri, Aug 9th One Chord Wonders: 8.30pm Sat, Aug 10th Sad Dad Club: 8.30pm Sat, Aug 17th Call The Shots: 8.30pm Sat, Aug 31st The Easy Riders: 8.30pm
Fri, Aug 23rd – Mon, Aug 26th: TUCKER’S CIDER FESTIVAL FREE ENTRY • Music all weekend:
• EL TORO • THE ROAD TRIPS
• THE MIDNIGHT HOUR • THE MONO
NEWWAVE BAND • TURNETTE DOONE
• RUSS BARNES • THE AUTHENTICS
• CHUFF • THE CLEYHILL STOMPERS
Parlour/Café: Baguettes, locally produced pasties and sausage rolls available Friday 8am to Sunday 5pm
Breakfasts Saturday and Sunday 8.15-11.30am Friday/Saturday evenings 6-9pm – Fish and chips, gourmet burgers, freshly made pizzas and more. Look out for the specials board!
First crop
East Harptree village fete Bonjour Chewton Mendip
Tony Beeching took along his 1905 traction engine
MC Brian Bray
Chewton Mendip WI members
The Tika girls were serving Pimms
Pictured (l to r) Penny Cross, Gill Stobart and Carrie Urell on one of the tombola stalls
Clare Greenhaigh face paints Zoe Kay while Alison Johnson waits for a customer
Compton Martin church and village fete
Ginnie manning the soft toys table with the help of George and Maddie
Teas being served by (l to r) Debbie Hutchen, Emily Maybey and her baby, Emma Taylor, Rebecca Bins and Laura Danvers
Kate Reynolds and Jane Cozens
Dave Hoskins winning a bottle of wine on the tombola, which was manned by Sophie and Matt Jackson
Barbecue (l to r) Austin Cook, Drew Forsyth and Ben Newton
The Rev Katrina Dykes opened the fete
World class art back on show in Wells
THE Wells Art Contemporary exhibition returns this summer, providing an exciting opportunity to enjoy world class contemporary art in the magnificent medieval setting of Wells Cathedral.
The exhibition, from August 3rd August 31st, includes the Gallery Show of 121 artworks with from nine artists, selected from almost 2,500 submissions from across the globe, to be displayed in a white wall gallery in the Cathedral Cloisters. Running concurrently is the Installation Show of 19 sitespecific works located throughout the cathedral and its grounds. It also includes three artworks from local community groups.
The Wells Art Contemporary returns, providing an exciting opportunity to enjoy world class contemporary art in the magnificent medieval setting of Wells Cathedral.
August 3rd to 31st
WAC recognises the power of visual art for mental health and wellbeing and this year has collaborated with Imagine, Learn & Create, The Mendip School and The Hive at Orchard Vale Trust to create unique pieces of art.
There is also an opportunity for budding artists to get involved with DRAW! – an event that welcomes members of the public to free sketching sessions with professional artists on hand to help and offer advice. These will take place on August 3rd, 4th, 17th and 18th, from 2-5pm. Places are free but limited. Book via:
wac.june.macfarlane@gmail.com
Paddy O’Hagan, Chair of WAC, said: “WAC is passionate about the importance of art for the community. We urge everyone who lives locally to come along to the exhibition."
A virtual exhibition will also be available to view for those who are unable to visit in person. Visit www.wellsartcontemporary.co.uk
No place like home
YOU’VE turned the water off, the alarm is set and “you definitely locked the front door, didn’t you Gerry?”
A worry-free holiday starts at home, or more importantly with the knowledge that your home contents are properly insured during your absence.
An insurance valuation of home contents prepared by a RICS Chartered Arts & Antiques Surveyor is factor 50 for your home. If your idea of suitable cover when on holiday is a knotted handkerchief and listening to Michael Fish for your weather forecast, best of luck.
For peace of mind, speak to Toby Pinn or visit tobypinn.co.uk
Don’t Give Up. By Jack Greenwood, Shepton Mallet
WAC chair Paddy O’Hagan
Plenty of variety for sellers and buyers alike
THE autumn auction schedule at Dore & Rees provides plenty of options for people looking to realise value in the items in their collection through offering them for sale by auction.
And for buyers looking to add to their collection, there will be plenty of opportunity to source a unique item.
The Interiors Summer Special auction on August 30th showcases furniture, paintings, ceramics, glassware and more. Guy Tayler, Head of Interiors, is happy to discuss selling your items in this auction.
Dore & Rees has been appointed auction partner for this year’s popular Castle Combe Autumn Classic at the Castle Combe Circuit, Chippenham. Collectors’ road and competition cars are invited to be part of this high profile auction, to be held on Saturday, September 21st. Contact Nick Wells, head of motoring, to discuss selling your classic car at the Castle Combe Circuit.
Looking forward to November, specialist auctions dominate the schedule. The Fine Asian auctions are going from strengthto-strength with the top level auction of the year coming up on November 11th. Contact Lee Young to discuss selling your Asian ceramics and works of art at auction.
Fine Jewellery and Watches, lead by Susan Rumfitt, and Fine Silver, lead by Duncan Campbell, will be held on November 27th. Offering these categories of auction together on the same date is a winning combination, along with meeting the demand for Christmas gifting.
The exciting programme of auctions follows below here. Contact the team on 01373 462257 or by email enquiries@doreandrees.com to arrange an appointment to discuss selling your items at auction.
Fine Watches – Rolex oyster perpetual watch sold for £19,500 (incl. fees)
Fine Asian Art – lantern vase sold for £227,500 (incl. fees)
Swan Artworks gallery season ends on a high
John’s work will be on show at Swan Artworks throughout August
CARRIE and Tony Osborne, who run Swan Artworks in Paulton, have really enjoyed hosting artwork by local artists over the summer, from printmaking to mixed media and fine art landscapes.
The final artist to display their artwork through August is John Hayhoe, with his eclectic and exuberant illustrations in various styles and mediums.
John is a member of Timsbury Art Group, attending classes there by Jos Blake, and has taken part in local arts trails and exhibitions. John said: “I started painting when I retired, if I can paint, anyone can! Have a go! I paint for pleasure not for profit and often give my paintings away or donate proceeds of painting sales to charity.”
John's artwork will be on show at Swan Artworks from August 2nd to August 30th. They are open from 9.30am –3.30pm Tuesday to Fridays but the workshop will be closed on Mondays during the school holidays.
VIOLETGraham was a talented artist who retired from a life as a medical missionary to live in Congresbury for many years until she died.
Her watercolours were sold prolifically around the area and feature on the walls of many homes, particularly as she was often commissioned to paint specific buildings.
Her most iconic painting was of Congresbury Refectory, which was printed into notelets which were sold in their thousands at local events and travelled around the world.
The Friends of St. Andrew's, who raise funds to maintain the Congresbury church, are organising an exhibition of Violet's paintings on the weekend of September 7th/8th in the church, and are asking for owners to lend her paintings for the exhibition.
Organisers say: “Violet was a staunch member of the church and would be delighted that her work was helping to keep the church in good repair.”
Medals that tell a story of war
AT Clevedon Salerooms we have the privilege of handling many important medal collections and it is the individual stories which accompany these medals that bring to life both the successes and horrors of war.
The last specialist sale featured many interesting medals. The Most Exalted Order of the Star of India, K.C.S.I., Knight Commander’s set of insignia is a rare find at auction and they scarcely appear on the open market.
This order of chivalry was founded by Queen Victoria in 1861 after the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Made from fine blue
enamel and gold with the motto “Heaven's Light Our Guide” executed in small diamonds it encloses a cameo of young Victoria.
A battle commenced on sale day between an online and a telephone bidder with the latter becoming victorious and securing this rare set for £12,500.
From the battles of the bygone British Raj, the next important medal group was awarded for one of the most important military operations of modern history, D-Day. Neil Malcolm Cockaday was a Royal Air Force Acting Flight Sergeant who took part in the Normandy Landings of June 6th, 1944.
For his brave and courageous actions, Cockaday was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM)
which was awarded for "exceptional valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying in active operations against the enemy".
Not only were bidders interested in the medal group, but they were captivated by the personal diary and paperwork which accompanied them.
The diary entries include June 6th: “D-Day Operations. Mont-Fleury-Target – medium coastal battery in Normandy,” and December 9th: “Home at 1 o'clock. Rocket dropped in Abbey Road this morning. Eight killed, really bring to life the experience of war.”
The group was sold to a collector for £2,800.
Entries are now open for our medal section in the September 12th Specialist Sale.
With CHRIS YEO
A right old ding-dong in Chilcompton
TEAMS from across the country gathered at St John’s Church in Chilcompton for the finals of the annual National 12-Bell Striking Contest.
Nine bellringing teams from as far afield as Birmingham, Bristol, London and Portsmouth – including some representing some of country’s finest cathedrals – were joined by the Chilcompton team for the day-long contest, competing for the prestigious Taylor Trophy.
Around 400 people gathered to enjoy the contest, won by The Society of Royal Cumberland Youths, just ahead of the reigning champions, from Birmingham. The Cumberlands, as they are generally known, have members from across the UK and overseas with their headquarters based at St Martin-in-the-Fields, London.
The first contest was held at St Mary Redcliffe, Bristol in 1975 with Birmingham having won 26 times previously. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the contest, the final will again be held at St Mary Redcliffe in June 2025.
Men’s shed declared open
AXE Valley Men’s Shed held their official opening on Saturday, July 13th at their new home at Axbridge’s old railway station.
The event was attended by newly-elected MP Tessa Munt, Graham Page, mayor of Axbridge Town Council and Pauline Ham, deputy mayor and Somerset county councillor.
They are pictured with Graham Page (right) chairman of the Men’s Shed.
The group have been given a 99-year lease on the building and have been busy fundraising to renovate it.
The station opened in 1869 and closed in 1963, the old line becoming the Axbridge by-pass. It had been empty for years, having been used previously by the Sea Cadets and as a youth club.
The former goods shed, which used to store strawberries, is now a workshop. The main station building is being readied for a whole range of activities.
The Chilcompton team and supporters ahead of the competition
The Chilcompton team in the chamber
Jack Page, captain of the Society of Royal Cumberland Youths, with the Taylor Trophy
Members and guests
LICENCE APPLICATION
Why do you need a lasting power of attorney?
WHILEwriting a will is a preparation for the inevitable, a Lasting Power of Attorney provides a more general safety net for you and your loved ones.
In situations where you’re no longer capable of making your own decisions due to loss of mental or physical capacity, a Lasting Power of Attorney entrusts your affairs with the person who is best placed to make important choices on your behalf.
Nominating a family member or friend in this capacity means that you maintain control of who manages your financial affairs, your housing, your social needs and your welfare.
Without Lasting Power of Attorney, your family will need to spend time and money on applying for a deputyship via the Court of Protection. In the meantime, your affairs will be in limbo, causing additional anxiety in what is already likely to be a difficult time for your loved ones.
Although the court will appoint a deputy to handle your financial affairs, they are unlikely to appoint a deputy for your health and welfare needs. Without Lasting Power of Attorney, this responsibility will fall to social services. It is reassuring to know that someone who knows you well and who you trust to make decisions on your behalf would be able to step in at this stage.
Lasting Power of Attorney £199ONLY
Richardson’s Wills was founded by Nicola Richardson in 2013. Nicola is a full member of the Society of Will Writers and an affiliate member of STEP adhering to their strict code of conduct. Specialising in Will Writing and Lasting Power of Attorney she provides a professional, affordable service.
Nicola and her team’s friendly and uncomplicated approach make a sometimes difficult subject easy to understand. Richardson’s Wills provide a quality service where the client comes first. Our fee for preparing LPAs is currently £199 plus VAT per document. The registration fee charged by the Office of the Public Guardian is £82 per document; reductions in the registration fee can be applied for in certain circumstances.
Contact us on 01934 441410 • www richardsonswills co uk or email hello@richardsonswills.co.uk for more information
A guide to what’s involved in probate
WHEN someone dies, they will typically name one or more executors to deal with their finances and estate. The executor will be in charge of settling any debts and distributing any inheritance owed to beneficiaries.
This includes accessing the deceased’s bank accounts, investments and even property. It isn’t as easy as just sending cash or transferring property names, though. Before any inheritance can be handed out, the executor needs legal authority to take charge of the estate. This is known as probate.
When is it needed?
Probate is required when dealing with a deceased person’s major financial assets. Financial providers will typically freeze accounts once a person dies and you will need probate to access assets such as savings and investments or to be able to sell their home.
Some banks may pay out small sums without the need for probate – ranging from £5,000 to £50,000 depending on the provider – but you will need other documentation such as a death certificate to access this money. If the deceased had no property and an estate worth less than £10,000, you may be able to avoid the stress of
getting a grant. But the vast majority of executors do require one. In many cases, you won’t be able to take charge of and distribute assets of significant value until you have a grant of probate – so it is a very important task for executors and can be a lengthy process.
What is a grant of probate?
A grant of probate is the legal document that you will receive once you have been given authority to access and distribute a deceased person’s assets. It is not a quick process. There have been reports of delays with the probate system due to staff shortages and a shift to remote working.
This has left some families having to wait months longer to gain control of their late loved one’s finances, which can make it harder to pay inheritance tax bills, funeral costs and to sell a property.
The probate process
It is currently taking 11 weeks on average to obtain probate once an application has been submitted, according to HM Courts & Tribunals Service. However, the Government warns it could take as long as 16 weeks. There are seven steps you’ll need to go through.
Knowing the probate process can hopefully make the application process a lot less stressful and time-consuming. These steps are as follows:
1. Register the death
2. Find the will
3. Arrange the funeral
4. Contact official organisations and financial providers
5. Value the estate
6. Apply for probate
7. Pay inheritance tax
This summary gives you a general idea of what is involved. Unless the estate concerned is utterly straightforward it would usually be sensible to instruct a solicitor to deal with the matter.
EDWARD LYONS
Alpaca appeal
100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business
TAMSIN
Harrisson’s love of alpacas started as a youngster in Cheshire when some of the first in the country appeared near her parents’ home.
During lockdown she saw an advert for three for sale and bought them. That was the start of Chapel Ground Alpacas, which now boasts a flock of 25 in fields at the bottom of Goblin Combe in Cleeve.
As well as providing fleeces, rugs and scarves, they’ve proved to be a great attraction for a variety of visiting groups, who can also enjoy craft sessions and teas.
Rickford Plume of Feathers duck race
Fun before the start
Decorating the ducks
The barbecue crew
Chasing the stragglers
Here they come
Shipham harvest home
SHIPHAMis preparing for its third harvest home on Saturday, August 24th, 12noon-midnight, with special guests the Mangled Wurzels. Guests are pictured at last year’s event.
There was a wonderful display of classic cars
Lympsham WI members
Hook-a-Duck
Last safari supper
THEChew Valley Friends of Cancer Research UK have held their 48th and final safari supper after 30 years.
More than 60 people gathered at East Harptree Court for pre-dinner drinks before going off to enjoy their starter, main and pudding courses with lots of different hosts before re-convening again for coffee at Church Farm in East Harptree.
One of the organisers, Gill Stobart, said: “A good time was had by all and the evening raised a marvellous £2000 for the charity. The committee has decided to hang up their pith helmets, so this was also the last Safari Supper.”
Over the years the suppers have raised £47,000 for Cancer Research.
home
Support for air ambulance
Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance held its third 5K Twilight Shift with supporters running, walking or jogging the 5km route around Henstridge Airfield, where the service is based.
Off-duty crew members took part alongside DSAA supporters and businesses, who ran, jogged or walked in memory of loved ones, as a personal challenge, or as a team.
The charity’s next fundraising event is their Race from the Base ultra-cycling challenge, which takes place at the airfield
New appointment
HOLLYHackett is the new community fundraiser for Yeovil and the east of the county for St Margaret’s Hospice.
She has been with the hospice for two years, firstly as the deputy manager at their Martock shop and more recently as a finance assistant.
She said: “I am thrilled to be joining the fundraising team and to be working with such an enthusiastic team of fundraising volunteers across my area.”
The hospice’s specialist nurses are currently providing palliative home care to 115 people across East Somerset.
CHILDRENat Hayesdown First School in Frome raised £250 for local charity Dogs for Health by completing a dog agility course!
They went to school in face paints and dog ears to support their school dog, Nero, who is part of the charity, which provides therapeutic support dogs for groups within the local community.
Nero visits Hayesdown every week and the children take him for walks, read to him and enjoy spending time with him as he visits their classrooms.
Water box donation
CHILDRENof Chew Stoke Church School have raised £255 for Chelwood Bridge Rotary Club's water box appeal by holding a non-uniform day.
Ken Biggs, a member of the club, explained what water boxes are and how they can help people in need around the world.
Head teacher, Ben Hewett, said: “Mr Biggs's informative talk helped the children understand the importance of clean water and the devastating impact disasters can have on access to this basic necessity.”
Mr Biggs is pictured accepting a cheque from Evie and Daniel.
Nero and fans
Headteacher, Julia Battersby, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the Dogs for Health charity in this way. We know how important it is for children to be happy and healthy, and Nero supports their wellbeing by reducing stress and anxiety.
“This was a fun way for the children to raise money and say thank you. Our children love the weekly visits from Nero, he is a very popular member of our school.”
Sally’s memory walk
SALLY Daniels from Pensford will join hundreds of others in Bristol on Saturday, September 21st for the Bristol Memory Walk which raises funds for dementia research.
Sally, who has done the Race for Life twice in the past, said: “I am passionate about helping people affected by all types of dementia.”
Details: sally daniels is fundraising for Alzheimer's Society (justgiving.com)
MENDIP TIMES
Supporting the homeless
THEBillyChip Foundation, founded by Jon and Sarah Abernethy-Hope from Bishop Sutton in memory of their son Billy, is going from strength to strength.
Billy’s idea, named by his family the “BillyChip” was to give homeless people a token that could be exchanged for a coffee or food, as many oppose giving cash.
Now the charity that his parents and sister, Meg, started in Billy’s name works to support other organisations that support homeless people in many different ways in towns and cities throughout the UK.
Jon and Sarah collected sleeping bags left behind after Glastonbury Festival, washed them and presented them to Sean Suleman of Bristol-based organisation Blonde Angels, together
with a cheque for £500 and 250 BillyChips, each worth £2.
BillyChips, which are accepted by many cafes, can also now be exchanged for clothing and other items in some participating charity shops. Billy’s suggestion of giving safe and secure street currency support rather than cash has well and truly taken off, with 37,000 BillyChips redeemed in the last year.
Sean, who works full time as a safety specialist, said that the Blonde Angel Street Team started one night in 2019 when he stopped to ask four homeless people what they needed. They asked for chocolate, a pot noodle, dry socks and wet wipes.
He said: “So the next day I went back with a backpack for each of them, filled with a few things. I just couldn’t believe
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their reaction at being given a few things each and a backpack to live out of!
“So I asked on Facebook for more supplies and clothes and would deliver around the streets of Bristol each week, learning as I went along what homeless people need and wanted. Then I was joined by friends until we were seeing 70 to 80 people every Sunday.
“I named it Blonde Angel after my cousin’s wife Rachel Ross who passed away in 2018 from leukaemia, leaving kids and husband.”
The Blonde Angel Facebook page now has over 6,400 supporters, with local support groups in Portishead and Wotton-Under-Edge, collecting donations that are given away in Bristol, Bath and to homeless shelters wherever possible.
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= Mendip Times Distribution area
Performers urged to help keep the ’copter flying
NEWS broke on the eve of Priddy Folk Festival that the Great Western Air Ambulance is facing a considerable financial shortfall this year.
Storyteller, Colin Emmett, started sounding out musicians, singers, dancers and other storytellers about supporting a folkstyle event in October/November to help. He’s asking people to message him with ideas and support.
Details: colinemmett@gmail.com
Book now to see behind the scenes
THESomerton Red Cross charity theatre trip on Saturday, October 5th to the Bristol Hippodrome will have an early start to give a two-hour tour behind the scenes.
Theatregoers can then enjoy a matinee performance of the musical “Me and My Girl”. The price for both is £67.
Details: charitytheatretrips@btinternet.com
Charity expands
ENDof life charity, Marie Curie, has announced that its companions service will expand to cover community hospitals across Somerset.
The new sites include Bridgwater, Burnham, Crewkerne, Frome, Minehead, South Petherton, West Mendip, Williton and Wincanton.
For nearly ten years, a small team of volunteers have been based at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.
The expansion is thanks to a new agreement between Marie Curie and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust. Marie Curie is now seeking compassionate individuals to join its team.
A MAJOR fashion exhibition is about to open in Shepton Mallet – behind bars!
Tanys Transformations will see hundreds of repurposed wedding dresses being modelled on the catwalk by volunteers. Organiser Tanys Kolizares, a former mayor of Wells, has been working on the project for more than a year, with several, smaller, exhibitions having already taken place in various venues. Tanys said: “This initiative is about more than just altering dresses; it’s about building connections, combating loneliness, and celebrating the stories each dress holds.”
The wedding dress, often seen as a symbol of love and commitment, represents the beginning of a happy journey. However, many end up stored away, rarely to be worn again. Tanys Transformations reimagines these dresses, offering them new life and purpose, turning them into canvases for creativity and change.
At the last count more than100 former wedding dresses have been converted into an array of showstopping gowns. Those that work on the dresses, “Tanys transformers” as they are called, come from many different backgrounds and each dress tells a story. With regular sew-ins and talks the enthusiasm to become part of the initiative seems to have no end and interest in seeing the growing collection of amazing dresses is also helping to showcase and touch the lives of even more people who live or visit Somerset.
Dresses Behind Bars will run from the end of Juy at the prison until the end of September.
including some new dresses celebrating the work of the Suffragette movement. A return to the Wells Cathedral is also planned for January 2025.
The events so far have been raising money for Heads Up and Whizz Kidz/
Tickets are now available for the gala night on Saturday, August 10th in the Bishop’s Barn in Wells. Tickets are now on sale either through Eventbrite or can be purchased from Wells Town Hall. but you will need to be quick as demand is likely to be high. l A discount on advance tickets is available to Mendip Times readers by scanning the QR code.
Tanys (centre) with models and people who have helped in the transformation
Locals play big part in festival success
Photography by Mark Adler
THIS year’s Glastonbury Festival was another vibrant mix of locally-based performing talent and volunteer efforts and celebrity fairy dust.
But it proved once again, how important the arts celebration is to the financial security of so many local events, ranging from carnival to sports clubs and village schools.
Wells-based singer/songwriter Sam Evans made his festival debut on the heralded BBC Introducing Stage, which regularly launches performers onto global success
A scaled-down Avalonian Free State Choir played the Octopus Stage, part of the Theatre & Circus green room. The stage is run by the Bruton-based Octopus Studio and helps to raise funds for the Children’s World Charity
Preparing to welcome diners to the ever-popular Tor RFC food stall
creator Joe Rush, who has a home near the festival site, prepares to
Festival favourites Squeeze ahead of a private warm-up gig backstage at Theatre & Circus ahead of opening the Pyramid Stage
Sir Michael Eavis performed with his band on the Park Stage
Volunteers from Marksbury School PTA welcome festival-goers
Carhenge
drive off on one of his mutoid creations
Joe Talbot, singer with Bristol-based IDLES, Friday night headliners on the Other Stage
Cindy Lauper on the Pyramid Stage on Saturday afternoon
Chloe, aged six, is baptised on Sunday morning in the Church Tent by the Rev Chris North, of Chilcompton
Hettie, Clara and Sophie, all from the Shoscombe and Radstock areas with a screenprint made at a workshop run by the Somerset Rural Life Museum
On the lookout for food: the Giant Seagulls take a break in the Theatre & Circus Fields
Keeping off the sun in front of the Pyramid Stage
Rob Beckley, the High Sheriff of Somerset, during a visit to the onsite Festival Medical Services base. FMS, based in Burnham-onSea, is a medical charity run by volunteers
31st folk festival was a “cracker”
ORGANISERS of the annual Priddy Folk Festival promised it would be a “cracker” of an event and it certainly lived up to all expectations.
A virtual sell-out from Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon, the community-run celebration of music, dance and culture attracted top-name performers to buskers.
In his welcome notes, festival chairman Dean Collier said: “Thank you for coming to our festival. We are a charity with all proceeds going to promoting music and the arts or improving the environs of Priddy.”
Reg Meuross (left) was joined by kora master Suntou Susso (right) and Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne in Swildon’s Marquee for Stolen from God, a song cycle about England’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade
Catseye Morris, from south east Cornwall, during the dance festival
Kate Griffin and Matchume Zango, just one of the brilliant acts to appear
Making music in Eastwater Marquee
Priddy Singers
Charities also ran stalls around the site: (l to r) Heather, Jane, Mark and Toby, helping out on the Wells and Shepton Mallet Amnesty international branch stall in the Market Field
Hello Hopeville, a popular six-piece based in and around Frome, ahead of their performance in the Fringe Tent
Volunteers in the busy Green Cow Café on the village green, raising funds for Priddy and St Lawrence’s primary schools
appreciative audience
This was Bill and Hillary Durrant’s last Priddy, after raising £100,000 at the event over many years for CRY, the Cardiac Risk in the Young charity, in memory of their granddaughter, Dr Jenny Bucknell, who died aged 23. Details: www.c-r-y.org.uk
For details, visit: www.priddyfolk.org
Henderson, from Scottish
Musicians outside the Queen Vic
Trainee Morris people with the Outside Capering Crew
An
Bar volunteers Rob and Maria enjoy a late lunch on the green
Wells-based street entertainer Bangles on the village green
Megan
contemporary five-piece folk band Breabach, who headlined Swildon’s on the closing Sunday afternoon
Emotional –but fun –return for Wickham Trolley
A RARE railway engineering crew vehicle called a Wickham Trolley has returned to the Somerset and Dorset heritage railway line in Midsomer Norton as a tribute to the man who restored it to full working order.
Peter Nicholson, of Burnham-on Sea, delighted visitors last July when he brought the two-person trolley to Norton to join the line’s own, six-seater, version. Sadly, Peter, a journalist, died a short while later but his widow, Pauline and grandson, John Brinsford, returned this July where it offered rides throughout the weekend.
It was originally used by British Railways’ Western Region engineering department, probably to carry out inspections. Capable of around 15mph, the trolley has no reverse gear so relies on gravity for its return journey.
Pauline said: “It was lovely to see it being enjoyed by so many people. All the family are passionate about it because it is so unusual.”
Foodbank on the move
THEREare changes to the Somer Valley foodbanks in Midsomer Norton and Paulton. After many years of operation from the Salvation Army Hall in Midsomer Norton, the foodbank collection centre is moving because of the closure of the church.
The last Monday session at the hall will be on August 5th. From Wednesday, August 14th, 1-3pm, weekly food parcels will be available from St John’s Church Hall, behind the Anglican Church.
The foodbank at the Methodist Church in Paulton is changing days. The last Wednesday session will be on August 7th and then the next session will be Monday, August 12th, 12-2pm.
Outgoing foodbank project manager, Paul Woodward, who is retiring after seven years, said: “We’re hugely grateful to the Salvation Army for providing us with a home for many years – a weekly spot where those in need could come and collect food parcels and seek any advice and support they need.
“Now, more than ever before over the last ten years, there has
never been a greater need for the Somer Valley Foodbank’s existence. With the rise in the cost of of living, and more people finding it difficult to make ends meet, we’re seeing an unprecedented demand for the foodbank’s services.”
The Somer Valley Foodbank, originally established as a collaboration between local churches and community leaders, comes under the charitable status of St John’s Church, Peasedown St John. It also runs centres in Radstock and Peasedown St John.
Since 2013 it has fed 23,828 people and distributed over 200 tonnes of food across the Somer Valley. It is part of the Trussell Trust, a Christian charity that now has over 430 foodbanks operating throughout the country.
The project manager is a voluntary position that is expected to take about 15 hours a week. Anyone interested in applying for the role can contact the Rev Matthew Street.
The family’s Wickham alongside the line’s larger version
Peter (right) with grandson Josh at the trolley’s debut last July
Nesting season 2024 –an update
By CHRIS SPERRING MBE
OVER the course of the last month, I’ve met various people who’ve asked me for an update on this year’s nesting season, following my July article.
It was clearly a very popular subject, judging by the responses. At this time of year, I’m visiting many landowners and farmers checking on owl nest boxes as part of an ongoing conservation project.
There are still many more sites to visit, but now I have a pretty good idea of how the season is going. Tawny owls breed mostly earlier than barn owls. Though these times can cross over, however, tawnies this year have had a wonderful production of owlets. I’d say probably the best season in the last eight years.
This was, no doubt, helped because of last autumn, which was a great time for nuts and berries, which helped prey species such as bank vole and wood mouse survive the winter in much higher numbers.
A highlight for me was visiting allotments that had withdrawn the use of rodenticides and wanted to use and
encourage natural predators and enjoyed success, with adult tawny owls observed taking mice and, on one occasion, a brown rat to feed their owlets.
I would be lying if said this was the complete answer to anyone's rodent issues. But when mixed with other predators, like foxes, stoats, etc., then not only are individual rodents being removed, but also the behaviour pattern of the prey species changes, from being bold to less exposure.
Barn owls faced enormous pressure from the cold, damp late winter and spring
and those on low ground faced flooding issues for some time during the 2023/24 winter. This would have led to a drastic drop in short-tailed vole numbers, apart from anywhere which didn’t flood, then the milder temperature would have been a benefit.
I’ll repeat, the numbers game is critical, the more young you can produce, the better chances your species has to reach a sustainable population level, In conservation terms, if that species is low in numbesr, it becomes essential especially if that species is short-lived. So, in most cases, the barn owl won’t live as long as the tawny, therefore the barn owl must have more owlets to replace parents.
Very early nesting barn owls showed real promise, with clutches of four to six eggs being laid. Problems began when grass growth was slowed because of the falling temperatures and, with continued
rain of early spring, this appears to have slowed the breeding rate of the main prey item, the short-tailed vole.
Therefore, when hatching the owlets were faced with parent owls literally hunting day and night to make up for the shortfall. Brood sizes reduced over the following weeks to end up with just two owlets reaching fledging stage.
There were, however, exceptions: on the higher ground broods at fledging stage have been so far higher, with between four-six owlets reaching this late stage, with one incredible record of eight eggs laid and hatched and six owlets reaching fledging stage.
Full credit must go to this farmer who leaves rough grassland edges around mowing fields and also for holding back from cutting in other fields to give the owls and other wildlife a chance.
Thank you to all the landowners and farmers I visit for all your help over the many years. If I haven’t got to you yet, my apologies. Please phone me on the number below.
The Hawk and Owl Trust Somerset Barn Owl webcam is still available at: https://hawkandowltrust.org/livecameras/barn-owl-cam-live-somerset The webcam has seen many dramas over the course of the season, at times seeming more reminiscent of soap opera. l I’m available for walks and talks, just either call or message me, and the book “The Great Misconceptions of Rewilding” is due to be released late August, for which which I have written a chapter. For details, visit:
Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him on 07799 413 918 or chris.sperring@btinternet.com
Barn owlets
Tawny owlet
A barn owlet in a tree on an allotment
Through the Mells Valley
I PLANNED this East Mendip walk for you unintentionally in pouring rain but still enjoyed it! Starting at Buckland Dinham it heads down into the Mells Valley, along the stream for a while and then heads past Spring Gardens close to Frome and up to Orchardleigh Park. After visiting the beautiful island church of St Mary on the lake in the Orchardleigh grounds, our route goes up through the park before following the Macmillan Way back to Buckland Dinham. The going is not always easy, with some rather overgrown and narrow paths and there are many stiles, but it offers good views and variety. There is a good pub back in Buckland Dinham up the other end of the main road.
PARK: Near the village church up the east end of Buckland Dinham which is on the Radstock to Frome road.
With
Sue Gearing
START: From the church, cross to the old village lock-up, an 18th century prison and go down the close at the side. At the end of this residential road follow the Tarmac path on. It bends round and goes down steps to the main road. Cross and go ahead up a drive opposite signed to Hill House, joining the Macmillan Way, although I am not sure it is signed here.
This is a long-distance route of 290 miles from Boston, Lincs to Abbotsbury, Dorset and aims to raise money by sponsorship for the Macmillan Cancer Relief charity.
1. FIELDS
It continues on as a footpath and leads into a field over a stile. There are pleasant views across country from here as you head down the left-hand side of two fields, over a stile and at the foot, turn left through a wooden kissing gate (KG). Now make your way down and across the field to a gate leading onto a lane. Cross over to a stone slab stile opposite. The path leads to a gate into a field and follow the path across to a KG and footbridge on the far side.
2. FORK
There is a fork of paths here though not that clear. Take the left hand one (leaving the Macmillan Way) which follows the left hedge, behind which is a stream the Buckland Brook. Just carry on staying near the hedge through fields and over two footbridges with stiles. Then go ahead to a stone slab stile to the left of a gate. It brings you onto a lane.
3. LANE
Cross the railway bridge and keep on until you reach a T-Junction. Cross the road ahead to join a Tarmac footpath alongside the road and turn left down into the Mells valley. Join the road again and continue on, crossing the Mells Stream, the lifeblood of the valley for so many years powering mills and different industries.
4. RIVER
Once over, go left over a stile and on to a footpath which follows the river – a pretty, shaded route which can be uneven in parts. Turn right on this quiet route and if there is a choice stay towards the river. Go through a wooden KG – it could be somewhat overgrown in parts as you continue. Turn up right alongside the railway line. Meet the busy main road from Buckland Dinham to Frome and cross with care. Turn left for a couple of minutes going over a bridge and come to an entrance to Orchardleigh, a golf course and popular wedding and events venue.
5. PARK GATES
Don’t go through the main gates but instead turn right, passing one of the lodges. Stay ahead on the concrete track, passing a large building being converted until you reach buildings ahead where you have to turn off right on the marked path over the river. Then head across the field (not right) with the river over on your left. Cross another bridge and a stile.
6. SPRING GARDENS
Bear left on the path, still with the river
left, in an area called Spring Gardens. Go over a crossing drive which accesses a large old mill over left and maintain direction in the next field. There’s another stile and keep on, following the right edge. Come alongside a garden fence and cross a stile on to a drive/track. Once over a stile on the other side, go ahead in the field, with a large mill conversion you can see over left.
7. DRIVE
Another stile leads onto a Tarmac drive. Turn left and stay in this direction. Cross the river again, past houses. Go through a metal gate and continue ahead on the footpath. Don’t fork left. There’s yet another stile. Continue to the end of a field, through a gate and on up. Maintain direction, still climbing. After a KG go into woodland. The path can be narrow and overgrown in parts.
8. ORCHARDLEIGH
As you come into the open in Orchardleigh Estate you may get glimpses of Orchardleigh House down below through trees. Go through a gate and cross a wide mown strip which is the estate landing strip. Then join a fenced path on the other side and get a glimpse of the lake down in the valley.
9. CHURCH ON LAKE
Drop down and reach converted wedding accommodation ahead. Go right to visit the wonderful church on a lake reached over a bridge across the moat.
The Grade 1 church of St Mary which stands on an island in the artificial
5.5 miles (9kms) about 3 hours walking. OS Explorer map 142, Shepton Mallet & Mendip Hills East, grid ref 755 512, postcode BA11 2QS What3Words: hills.boasted.noun
Orchardleigh Lake was built in the 13th century and was heavily restored by Sir George Gilbert Scott for the Rev W. A. Duckworth in 1878, whose relations held the estate at that period. It is a very popular wedding venue. There is no electricity supply and services are romantically held by candlelight and the organ pumped by hand. The church has retained sculptures and stained glass from the14th and 15th centuries. Around 1800, estate owner Thomas Champneys of the MostynChampneys Baronets had a moat dug around the church.
In the churchyard is the the grave of the poet Henry Newbolt and his wife, a member of the Duckworth family. Also in the churchyard is a 1786 monument for Azor, a German water pudelhund, given to Sir Thomas Champneys. The dog is supposed to have saved his master from drowning and when he was dying Sir Thomas asked that the dog be buried with him. All was well until the Bishop of Bath and Wells heard about it and furiously told the parson to get the animal moved out of consecrated ground. The dog was exhumed and reburied under the monumental urn. Return to the track and turn right, passing a lodge house, through ornate gates and follow the drive up through Orchardleigh Park and the golf course (keep an eagle eye for flying golf balls!).
10. JUNCTION
Come to a junction by buildings and turn left on the main track following the Exit sign and rejoining the Macmillan Way. Pass a pond and go through wooden gates. There’s a kissing gate too. Bear away right just after the gate following the Macmillan Way.
11. WOODLAND
Go into woodland and shortly over a stile and join a larger track. As the main track bends, leave it and maintain your direction on a smaller path still under trees. Cross a stile into a field and drop down. Bend round on the track and enter a field. Ignore the track now and bend right along the bottom of the field. You may just see the top of Buckland Dinham church tower up ahead. In the corner bend left staying in the field (don’t go right). Continue to follow the field edge and reach a gate and footbridge.
12. FOOTBRIDGE
Head up the field along the right edge. The path bears a little away from the edge. Continue on up and go through a KG and soon you reach a pedestrian gate. The walled path takes you along to a drive. Turn left back to the church lychgate and the start of this circle, which I hope you have enjoyed.
West Countryman’s diary
I’Msitting down to write my column early as I will be leaving to join up with this year’s group of students from the University of Georgia USA. As ever, I tend to suffer from “ground rush”. This was a term I learnt from my basic parachute training, when the ground rushes up to meet you at about 50 feet from landing. Everything has to happen in quick succession.
Jobs have to be completed, travel arrangements confirmed and kit has to be packed. It always works out right and I tell myself constantly: “Anxiety is a state of mind brought on by a perceived threat that rarely if ever happens.”
Like everything else, once it starts it’s away, so more for you on this year’s trip north of Bristol in the next edition. I seem to be getting a taste for this travel thing after going down to the New Forest to pick up a machine.
It’s always good to look over someone else’s hedgerow and see what’s going on. The open common land near Beaulieu was quite impressive, being made more so by the grazing livestock on unfenced roads.
Cattle and ponies alike were free to roam with the motor vehicle being the junior partner. My mind immediately returned to Burrington Combe and the speed at which some drivers travel up and down the road. I do however think things are changing for the better.
My belief is that the more people see cattle on the road the more they get used to them being around. They are a part of the countryside and like the deer that run across the road without any traffic sense, they have a right to be there.
The ponies however will tend to stay up on Black Down and for that I’m thankful. The goats still clamber precariously around the rock faces in the lower combe and look down with an imperious gaze as the world rushes by below.
Thoughts of a changing countryside fill
my mind on an ever-increasing basis. I alluded to such changes in my last column and I’m not the only one who feels it. I recently found a book in a second-hand shop that was filled with pictures of the English countryside.
In the introduction the author lamented the changing face of rural England, with the demise of the village and in many ways the degradation of the landscape. This book was written in 1937. So, the question is have things improved or are we still looking at an ever-changing picture where each generation will say: “Ah well it wasn’t like that in my day?” In truth it is bound to change, but how much change can we handle?
It was once said that the British are a nation of shopkeepers. I believe Napoleon was credited with what was meant to be a derogatory comment, but several others from history also vie for the honour of saying as much.
It is a fact that this island nation was founded on trade and still depends upon it. The shopkeeper may be in decline but the internet trader grows stronger by the day. If it is trade that keeps our nation viable then it is to the countryside we turn for contentment and wellbeing.
Napoleon could just as well have said the we are a nation of gardeners, for it’s here we turn when access to the rural environment is difficult. We create our own green and pleasant surroundings. A place to relax and grow our food and if there isn’t room for that we use containers.
Our gardens and their greenery mean a lot. It can be said it’s difficult to escape the flower pot and the tea pot in this country.
With regard to villages well, yes, they still exist but in a different mode to the rural idyll that is held within the covers of many countryside books.
Communities have changed and not everyone who lives in a village drives a tractor. It can be said however these centres of rural population are constantly growing.
Very few escape the hand of the developer as Government pressure to
build more houses increases. In doing so more agricultural land disappears while much is turned over to solar farms to provide the energy for a growing population.
A few villages hang on relatively unscathed, but they are in the minority. Their survival is due mainly to road access and ownership as is the case with Stanton Prior near Keynsham which is part of the Duchy of Cornwall estate.
The modern cottager may not be seen digging his garden behind a wooden picket fence and before a rose covered cottage wall, but there is still the lore of the countryside and its natural succession of seasons and tasks that are celebrated.
Local communities hang onto the Harvest Home with its celebration of harvest completed. They adore the Winter Wassail of the apple trees and relax at the local flower show and church fete. So as the last Bank Holiday approaches and summer begins to give way to autumn, I think we all know that change is inevitable as it is with the seasons.
No doubt future generations will be discussing the same issues. As Somerset farmer George Withers proclaimed in his poem But Still The Land Remains: But dawn still rises in the East, the sun sinks in the West;
We come, we try, we live, we die, we work, we eat, we rest:
But love or hate the system, whoever holds the reigns
Let others learn, we’ve had our turn, but still the land remains.
This month’s picture is from long ago in an idyllic age of a boy in the corn. I think it worked out alright for him.
With LES DAVIES MBE
Compton Dando village fete
Chris Dibble and Laura Moore with cakes
Pictured (l to r) Vicki Cracknell, Spencer Sands, Ashley Sands, Josh Hale and Rachel Hamilton finding out more about Avon Needs Trees
The barbecue (l to r) Ben Wall, Ian Collings, Mike Stenner and Craig Parker Caroline Combs and Harriet Dottridge on the bric-a-brac stall
Al Parkes with his 1934 REO Flying Claude Coupe
South Bristol Ukes, who entertained the fete goers
Still no time to stand and stare!
IT may come as some relief to many that most woody plants have stopped growing for this season. It is for this reason that we delay cutting hedges, such as beech, hornbeam, and yew until August, apart from giving the birds ample time for a second brood. Some plants may have another short spurt, of often tinted foliage, which we call Lammas growth (Lammas Day is August 1st).
They are now concentrating their efforts on slowly developing flower buds that will bloom next year. Camellias and rhododendrons have already developed their flower buds, and now is the crucial time to keep them well watered, especially those grown in containers. Failure to do so may result in the buds dropping next spring, just as you are expecting a good show.
Herbaceous plants, on the other hand, have either finished their flowering cycle or are busy creating flower buds to provide us with the “oh so valuable” late summer colour from asters, chrysanthemums, and Japanese anemones.
So many gardens “finish blooming” by the end of July, when with a little planning they can keep giving all year round.
Hydrangeas are in their full glory now and not many plants can compete for the length of their flowering season. Do not be too hasty to cut off the heads once they are over. The heads will often change colour, adding to the autumn interest and you may inadvertently cut off next year’s flowers.
Leave the heads until late spring as they are protecting the buds immediately beneath them which will produce next season’s flowers. The classic mophead and lacecap types flower on the previous season’s growth, whereas the now popular “Annabelle” type flower on the new growth.
Pots and hanging baskets need to be fed regularly from now on as the slow-release fertilizer granules incorporated in the compost, plus any that you may have added when planting, will have been used up. Use a
tomato feed to keep them going until midOctober.
Salvias, in many shapes, sizes and colours have deservedly become popular, but many are not truly hardy in our climate, so now is the time to take cuttings to ensure their survival for next year. The cuttings root very easily, so are ideal for beginners to have a go with.
Take non-flowering shoots about 10cm long, from the parent plant and cut the base just below where the leaves join the stem (node). This is the spot where there is an abundance of stems cells capable of changing to produce roots. Remove the lower leaves that would be buried and if too large, cut the remaining leaves in half. Use the same technique for penstemons and fuchsias.
Fill a pot with a well-drained mixture of multi-purpose compost and grit. Water well. Use a pencil to dibble holes and insert the cuttings around the edge of the pot. Pop a plastic bag over the top and secure with a rubber band. Remember to label them. Stand on a windowsill, out of direct sun.
After about three weeks you should see roots emerging from the base of the pot. Poke a hole in the plastic bag to allow the cutting to acclimatise to the conditions for a week or so before removing completely. The cuttings can then be potted individually or left until spring in a cool frost-free well-lit place.
At this time cuttings can also be taken of hardy woody evergreen plants, such as berberis, viburnums, ceanothus, box, euonymus, choisya, star jasmine, hebes and holly. Follow the instructions above but make the cuttings slightly larger (15cms).
LOCAL SHOWS
Clutton Flower Show – Saturday, August 10th.
Chelwood Flower Show (Pensford & Publow) – Saturday, August 17th.
Frome Selwood Horticultural Society Flower Show – Saturday, August 24th. Stanton Drew Flower Show and Summer Fete – Saturday, August 31st. Chew Stoke Harvest Home – Saturday, September 7th.
Theale Flower Show – Saturday September 7th
Ideally dip the base in fresh hormone rooting gel, containing indolyl butyric acid, a naturally occurring plant hormone. Insert into well-drained compost as before, cover and leave outside in a shady place.
These will be much slower to root than the salvia ones and should not be potted until next spring. Taking cuttings is very simple, and the rewards are great, with free plants to give away or use yourself.
Apples and pears trained as espaliers or cordons should be summer pruned now. Wait until growth has ceased and a winter bud has developed at the tip of shoots more than 20cms long. The timing will vary slightly depending on the variety and location.
Cut back these shoots to three leaves above the basal cluster of leaves. If done too early unwanted lateral growths may develop. This allows light to penetrate to help colour the fruit and ensures good crops the following year. Apples and pears grown as bushes/trees should be pruned in the dormant season.
Hardy geraniums have virtually finished flowering now, with the exception of “Rozanne” and “Dilys”. Cut back the whole plant to the base and you will get a flush of new foliage, but rarely another flowering. “Rozanne” and “Dilys” will keep blooming for another month or so.
August and September are popular months for village flower shows and it is important to keep these going. Schedules of classes can usually be found on village websites. So have a look and see what you could enter, if not in the gardening classes, the cookery, art, craft or photography.
When selecting produce for showing look for uniformity, such as potatoes of the same size, beans, or courgettes of the same length. Make sure you have the right number for each class (when judging I have been known to eat a surplus raspberry or pea pod to ensure the exhibitor is not disqualified!).
If you grow it show it, it is the taking part that is important and never think your produce is not good enough. Looking ahead –in 2026 the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Festival will be coming to the Badminton Estate in Gloucestershire for just one year.
See What’s On for other listings
With MARY PAYNE MBE
A U G U S T G A R D E N T I P S
• Reliable hardy annuals and biennials can still be sown. Californian poppies are so easy and should be sown directly into a well-prepared seed bed in full sun where they are to flower.
• Keep the show going in your pots and baskets by increasing feeds and regularly removing fading flowers (don’t let them set seeds!)
• Plant snowdrop bulbs just as soon as you can. They can be difficult to get going but by planting really early they establish much more readily. The longer they are out of the ground the more dormant they become and difficult to re-awaken.
• Autumn flowering crocus should be planted as soon as possible, as they will flower this October. They flower before the leaves appear earning them the common name “Naked Ladies”.
• Cabbage, cauliflower, sprouts and other brassicas get a multitude of pests at this time of year. Regular sprays of Garlic Barrier keeps them all away without making your vegetables taste like garlic!
• Prune fruit trees that have fruits containing stones rather than pips now. Plums, cherries, apricots, peaches and nectarines are best pruned during the summer when they are less likely to get infected with the incurable Silver Leaf disease.
• Keep picking runner beans and courgettes regularly.
THE layout and planting began in 2003 by a garden designer and a painter. The garden covers four acres comprising three distinct gardens around the house with exuberant mixed herbaceous and shrub borders, leading to a meadow and orchard with wildflowers, masses of spring bulbs, species roses and lilacs.
Address: West Bradley BA6 8LS.
Contact: Keith Anderson and David Mendel, 01458 850604 andersonmendel@aol.com www.instagram.com/keithbfanderson
Opening dates and time: Saturday, August 24th, 11-5pm. Admission: £6, children free. Please pay using cash only. Donations to West Bradley Church.
Stoberry Garden
WITH breathtaking views over Wells Cathedral, this fiveacre family garden has stunning combinations of vistas, accented with wildlife ponds and water features, and a large walled garden.
Address: Stoberry Park, Wells BA5 3LD. Contact: Frances and Tim Young 01749 672906
www.stowberryparkgarden.co.uk
Opening dates and time: Saturday, August 17th and Sunday, August 18th, 1-5pm.
Admission: £5, children free.
To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Garden Visitors Handbook, or the Somerset County Leaflet, available from local Garden Centres, or go to: https://ngs.org.uk/
Low maintenance
WHEN I meet a new client, I always ask about what they want from their garden and one of the most common responses is for low maintenance. Of course there are varying degrees of work required, but there are a few key things you can do to reduce the amount of time needed to tend your garden.
Pots are high maintenance and I always suggest that the number of pots is reduced or that they are removed altogether. They require regular watering and feeding – even if there has been rain.
Growing many types of plants always helps to create that magical cottage garden look, but this will require regular and detailed maintenance. However, to reduce maintenance and create a cohesive look, plant in multiples of the same plant. Not only does this make maintenance simpler, it also creates a more unified look in the garden, with repetition tying different areas together.
Choice of plant is important and old favourites are often popular for a reason – they grow well and need minimal fuss. For example, I always choose foxgloves over lupins, as the slugs don’t eat them, they self-seed and are easy to look after.
Some roses such as New Dawn and Gertrude Jekyll are always popular because they produce masses of blooms and are pretty much bombproof.
Garden crew
BISHOPSutton and Stowey WI have now spent four years looking after the planters behind the village hall and there’s currently a great display of flowering perennials. On a recent visit the “gardening gang” disturbed the resident frog – and a youngster – when they topped up the pond.
And if all else fails, don’t forget that rewilding is also an option that nature will embrace!
ELIZA
GRAY
Blooming lovely
Children at Chew Stoke Primary school have been working closely with the parish council on its entry in the annual RHS Community in Bloom competition.
As well as this planter, they have been planting sensory plants in the school’s small playground.
Sizzling summer events
JOIN Shaun the Sheep on a baa-rilliant gardening adventure at RHS Rosemoor in North Devon from July 27th to September 1st.
See Shaun “in the fleece”, play “hide and sheep”, “find the flock” then make your own model of Shaun to take home. Or travel back in time and admire an eclectic collection of classic cars, motorcycles, tractors and caravans at the Vintage Weekend July 27th-28th. Try swing dancing or rockabilly and enjoy family shows, steam rides and retro games.
For the ultimate summer’s day out, the RHS Rosemoor Flower Show, August 16th-18th is hard to beat! Browse and buy quality grasses, flowers, shrubs and houseplants from specialist nurseries. Watch flower arranging demonstrations and hear fascinating
talks then relax and enjoy live music and family entertainment with a picnic.
Next generation at Thatchers
THATCHERSCider has announced the appointment of Eleanor Thatcher to its board of directors, the fifth generation of her family at the 120-year-old company.
She said her passion is cidermaking, protecting the environment and ensuring the sustainability of the business for future generations, while reducing the company’s carbon footprint and protecting biodiversity.
She said: “My role now is to continue what my family has built; making great quality cider, in harmony with nature, for another 120 years.
“Since 2010 we have planted 158,000 trees and we plan to plant another 13,000 more next year. From regenerative farming to planting wildflower meadows and working with the Bumblebee Trust we create bee friendly orchards.”
Every one of Thatchers ciders is made using 100% renewable electricity and even the apple left over once the juice is squeezed is recycled into green energy.
They’re constantly reviewing their packaging too, from being the first to replace plastic with sustainably sourced card in 2016, to using lighter cans and saving the equivalent of a whopping 5.9m cans a year.
Centenary party
EVERCREECHWI is celebrating its centenary this year. They held a tea party where committee members dressed as Lyons Corner House waitresses.
President Maxine Clinton has seen a number of smaller groups close recently and join Evercreech.
The battling Willberrys
MATT Clarke and his team, “The Travelling Willberrys”, have completed a 1,100 (m or km?) ride across major equestrian sites in the UK to raise awareness and funds for Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity.
The circular journey started from Badminton House and ended at The Hannah Francis One Day Event at Southfield House, Nunney.
Matt, who lives near Glastonbury, said his ambition was not only to complete the challenge, but also to raise as much awareness as possible of osteosarcoma, an aggressive childhood bone cancer, that both he, and Hannah Francis battled.
Hannah, who was a talented rider, started the Wonder Pony charity before she died. Treatment did work for Matt, though he still continues to battle the debilitating side effects, including a leg prosthetic, deafness in one ear, and constant tinnitus.
The ride has so far raised £14,000 for the charity.
Here current chairman and secretary, Alan Gray, introduces the organisation’s work and submits this article.
Alan, a member of the Axbridge Caving Group, has been involved in a number of significant cave discoveries beneath Mendip’s western hills.
This month we welcome back our monthly caving articles, albeit in a new format with a number of experts in their field offering their views on the fascination of underground exploration. All are members of the acclaimed Mendip Cave Registry and Archive.
CAVING articles have appeared in Mendip Times since the very first issue in June 2005. Initially written by Dave Irwin, he contributed monthly articles until his untimely death in early 2007. Phil Hendy continued the task and his articles ran from February 2008 right up until April 2024, when he too sadly passed away.
Both were Registrars with the Mendip Cave Registry and Archive (MCRA), so it seems appropriate that this organisation should continue the work, operating on a collective basis.
The Mendip Cave Registry was formed in January 1956, tasked with recording “. . . any natural or artificial holes, swallets, sinks, risings and springs (dry or active), and any objects of speleological interest, including mines” in the county of Somerset. This effectively included all sites of underground interest, with the exception of coal mines, which lay under the jurisdiction of the National Coal Board. Over time, the MCRA area expanded to include the vast underground quarries beneath Wiltshire and Dorset, along with the natural caves on the Isle of Portland.
In the early years, compilation of the data was a very lengthy process; letters were sent between registrars, and the information typed into three books. In the latter half of the 20th Century, the rise in easily available technology simplified this task considerably and Dave Irwin recruited new registrars to help transfer the information into the digital realm. In 2007, I took over the position of chairman and secretary and suggested that the function of the registry should be expanded to also cover archive material, thus provoking the name change to Mendip Cave Register & Archive.
Today, the cave register contains more than 3,000 entries pertaining to subterranean sites; providing location, vital statistics and references to where the information is published. The online searchable bibliography, sourced from books, magazines and caving club publications, includes more than 35,000 entries from 883AD to present. Over the years, more than 4,000 photographs have been donated to the archive, which are available for use in publications. There is
(Photograph by Mark Lumley)
Revealing some of Mendip’s orchre mining past
also a collection of Mendip caving films, catalogues of postcards and ephemera and even an assortment of cavers’ songs, featuring cavers actually singing along (badly)!
The highlight of the archive are the cavers’ log books which currently contain more than 28,000 logbook pages ranging from 1861 to the present day. Many entries refer to the progression of cave digs where mud and rocks are removed to try and find new caves and cave passages. Analysis of this material has led directly to the rediscovery of several lost caves, especially on Mendip’s western hills, which were once extensively mined for ochre. One such cave was the famous “Lost cave of Axbridge” which contained a chamber described as being “bigger than Axbridge Square”. Cavers searched for this cave for years without result until a clue to its real location was found in just eight lines contained within 3,200 pages of the late
Willie Stanton’s logbooks. Armed with this information (and a mechanical digger!) members of the Axbridge Caving Group successfully re-entered the cave in 2011, although the fabled chamber ultimately proved to be about one third of the size of Axbridge Square!
In recent years, the MCRA has made much of this material available in book form and has published several volumes pertaining to Mendip. Some of these have already sold out but Earth Colours (ochre mining),Mines and Minerals of the Mendips (two very large volumes) and three volumes of Somerset Underground (a comprehensive guide to underground sites in Somerset) are all currently available. All being well, the fourth and final of Somerset
Underground should be available in September this year and a sixth edition of Mendip Underground (the sporting caver’s bible), is currently in production. These books can be purchased directly from the MCRA website. There are also free downloads of several publications, including “A History of Mendip Cave Rescues & Incidents” and “An overview of the Archaeology of Mendip Caves and Karst.”
All of this information is held on a website (www.mcra.org.uk) and is a freely available and constantly expanding resource of data for non-commercial users interested in exploring the world beneath our feet.
An extract from Willie Stanton’s logbook which offered clues to the whereabouts of the Axbridge Chamber
Part of the rediscovered Axbridge chamber
(Photograph by Steve Sharp)
Paulton party in the park
Teddies’ challenge
DESPITEthe threat of rain, the Teddy Tower zip-wire challenge went ahead at St Andrew’s Church in Chew Stoke, with cream teas and cakes being served in the church to provide sustenance to those taking part.
are Rosina, Ella, Sophie and Buttercup the Unicorn, holding their Teddies’ certificates.
Winford community day
Paulton Concert Band is looking for new members and a conductor
Tombola was popular
Pride in Paulton volunteers Hilary Smyth (left) and Hazel Rowcliffe
Dancers from Paulton Infants' School
Pictured
Dog show entrants
The churchyard was busy
Congresbury fete and garden show
The flower show was busy
The human fruit machine operated by the Mendip Friends of Children's Hospice South West
Cream teas from (l to r) Royette Chapman, Diana BlanchardTaylor and Jennie Ford
WI members (l to r) Valerie Harding, Ann Anderson and Jenny Byett
Congresbury Brass Band
The case for improving the law Plop the Raindrop
By DrPHIL HAMMOND
I’VEnever been an expert witness in a criminal trial and have never wanted to be because I don’t think the process is fair, particularly when the science is complex and uncertain. In the current system, prosecution and defence teams can audition, discard and coach their medical experts who are supposed to be independent but have a clear pecuniary incentive to make their evidence more relevant and certain than it may be.
A much better system, in my view, would be for the Royal Colleges and Royal Statistical Society to provide a team of the best, current expert witnesses on behalf of the court, not paid or employed by one side or the other.
It would be mandatory for the jury to hear this impartial evidence, which could be tested by both sides. It is vital for justice to be done and to be seen to be done.
At present, the jury may only hear a highly selective and curated version of the science from a single side and experts will later disclose evidence they believe should have been heard in the court hearings after the verdict.
This is what is currently happening after reporting restrictions were lifted after the trials and failed appeals of neonatal nurse Lucy Letby, now convicted of seven murders and seven attempted murders.
The New Yorker published lengthy concerns about the scientific validity of the trial citing numerous credible experts (13 May 2024) followed by the Guardian (9 July), Telegraph (9 July), Independent (13 July) and Mail (13 July). But the correct place for such opinions to be aired is in the courtroom.
The airing of them after the verdict must be extremely distressing for the parents of the children who died, the friends and relatives of Lucy Letby and members of the jury who would have wanted the
complete scientific picture.
One hallmark of the justice system is that you don’t have to offer any defence –expert or otherwise – and it is entirely down to the prosecution to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Letby and her barrister Ben Myers KC did not call any expert witness to give evidence at her original trial, perhaps secure in the knowledge that the evidence against her was largely circumstantial and perhaps mindful that the prosecution had six expert witnesses and seven consultant paediatricians who were united in believing her to be guilty because it seemed the most plausible explanation for the spate of sudden and unexplained collapses.
But there were plenty of more likely explanations. Experts are now publicly arguing that the babies who died were much sicker than the prosecution portrayed and the unit had an influx of sick babies it didn’t have the staff and equipment to safely deal with.
Six of the seven babies Letby is convicted of murdering had postmortems by experienced pathologists at Alder Hey hospital and not one picked up possible harm, deliberate or otherwise. A spreadsheet concocted to “prove” Letby was always on duty when babies were harmed was full of basic statistical errors.
Deaths did indeed reduce when Letby left the unit, but that coincided with the unit being downgraded so it couldn’t take such sick babies. Letby was never caught in the act and a search of her internet history found no evidence she researched any of the multiple murder methods she is accused of employing, some quite bizarre and improbable.
Her only option is a final appeal, probably to the Criminal Cases Review Commission. I don’t know if she is innocent or guilty, but I am absolutely certain there are better ways of presenting scientific and statistical evidence to court and thus improving justice.
I HADa choice this last month of going to tennis, football or a folk festival at Priddy. I think any game that involves balls is silly, though I confess tennis balls are quite attractive, not unlike the shape of water droplets like me. Plump and round.
There was also cricket, which also involves balls, but I can’t imagine how anyone sensible could be interested in that.
Fortunately, I’d landed in a puddle in Priddy just a day or two before the festival started, not far from the organisers’ tent. If you went you might have seen me.
I expect most of you know where Priddy is, the only village that sits on top of the Mendip Hills. They say it’s two coats colder up there. I’ve fond memories of long days sitting in fog.
Most villages are down below, where water emerges in springs and streams. I’ve made that journey loads of times, landing on the plateau and then slowly working my way down through the limestone.
It can take thousands of years, especially if you get swallowed by a bat.
Anyway, you get a whole different perspective on life sitting in a puddle. Most people do their best to avoid them.
But then there are kids who want to jump up and down in the water, giving us all a headache, and there’s the risk of landing in their boots and being carried off.
But mostly it’s calm enough to lie back on occasions like this and just take in the sounds of music, singing and dancing, with night-time visitors like badgers, foxes and drunk Morris dancers.
Obviously, puddles don’t last long, so I always try to enjoy what is a bit of a holiday. Eventually it might rain and I’ll get washed down a drain or back into a cave.
Or it will dry out and I’ll be whisked back into the clouds, ready for the next downpour – and another adventure.
MENDIP GRANDAD
COURT HOUSE
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
e Manager – Chris Dando • 01934 742131 • chriscourthouse@gmail.com
Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk
Jennifer Morecroft - GDC
Practice Principal – B.D.S (U.BRIST) MFGDP
Alison Chapman - GDC
Practice Associate – BDS MFDS PG Cert Endo
Nikolai Stankiewicz - GDC
Practice Associate – BDSc FDS MFGDP DPDS
MSc
Sally Cantwell - GDC
Dental Hygienist – EDH
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Dental Hygienist – EDHThe
New team members at Wedmore Dental Practice
As a private dental practice based in the idyllic village of Wedmore in Somerset, we provide expert routine dentistry along with cosmetic treatments to make your smile healthy and beautiful.
We continue to welcome new patients to register at the practice as our clinical team expands to be able to provide high quality dentistry care for our patients. With recent changes to our team, we would like to introduce two new Practice Associates:
Agata Milewicz
Agata qualified in 2015 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from Sheffield University. She then continued her education, achieving a Diploma of the Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgeons, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, in 2019. Since qualification, Agata has enjoyed a number of roles, including an associate position, Dental Officer in Special Care Dentistry, Specialty Dentist at the prestigious Eastman Dental Hospital, and she continues to work as a locum dentist for the MOD.
Hannah qualified from Birmingham in 2009 and went on to work in London where she gained considerable experience in general dentistry, before moving to the South West in 2014. Continuing her professional development, Hannah is currently studying for a diploma in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry and is in the process of completing sedation training, which will allow her to offer IV sedation to patients in practice. In addition to dentistry Hannah is also qualified in Facial Aesthetics. Hannah is friendly and approachable, putting even the most nervous patients at ease.
Please visit our website for more information www.wedmoredental.co.uk or one of our friendly receptionists will be on hand to take your call on 01934 713013 and if you are in the village please feel free to pop in to meet our reception team.
Telephone: 01934 713013
@wedmoredental
New partnership
THE Laurels Care Home in Draycott says it’s thrilled to announce a new partnership with Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP). The initiative is designed to prevent falls through improved muscle strength, thereby enhancing quality of life for older people.
Home manager, Melissa McConville, said: “The benefits of this partnership are already evident. Our residents look forward to the exercise sessions and feel motivated afterwards, improving their quality of life.”
The programme has also provided the home with an interactive OMI projector which is helping residents living with dementia.
Hannah York
Town becomes a giant playground
A CARDBOARD “city”, street theatre and dance displays, arts activities and more dominated Shepton Mallet town centre and Collett Park for the annual All the World’s Our Playground children’s festival.
Organised by the town-based community interest company Make the Sunshine, all the performances and events were inspired by the imagination of young people from across the area.
Quilts for kids
CRAFTERS who love making quilts or knitting blankets are being invited to join Project Linus, which supports sick children.
One group, run by Linda McGregor, meets up monthly at the Conygre Hall in Timsbury. Linda is the coordinator for Bath, Wells and surrounding areas.
She delivers quilts, blankets and other knitted items to the RUH, both NICU and the Children’s Ward, the Children's Hospice South West, Barnardo’s and a few other places.
She said: “In NICU (the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) the premature babies get quilted Xmas stockings and a Xmas quilt from Santa. The parents love it and of course they are given them to take home when the babies are discharged.
“All the other places get bigger quilts, the biggest usually end up with teenage boys. Barnardo’s are given quilts to match the sex and age of the children going to their forever homes. I try and make a delivery every six weeks.”
THE Friends of Pensford Church Tower’s latest tea party was so successful they ran out of scones! They were raising money for repairs to the church clock.
Pictured (l to r) are Jane Garner, Barbara Avery, Catriona Rees, Gillian Wookey, Pam King and Catherine Miller.
ABBA dance routines in Collett Park by the members of the Chapel Dance Studio
Boxvillle – families packed the Market Place to enjoy
creative session involving
monsters
Pupils from St Paul’s Junior School with their fantasy underwater Sea Dream drama
Honour for host of “ladies who lunch” fundraisers
THE organiser of an annual garden party which has raised £44,000 over the past ten years for the RUH Breast Cancer Unit has received a prestigious community award for her efforts.
Rosemary Blatchford, of Midsomer Norton, prepares all the lunches herself and also sources the prizes each year for a raffle.
At this year’s Ladies Who Lunch party, 150 guests included Mr Richard Sutton, a consultant breast surgeon at the RUH, and Debby Huxham, president elect for the Rotary Club of Midsomer Norton & Radstock, who presented Rosemary with a Paul Harris Fellowship Award, the highest form of recognition a rotary club can bestow on a rotarian or a member of the community who has made an outstanding contribution to the community.
Rosemary has also volunteered with the Midsomer Norton Community Trust since it began in 2013 and has been on the organising committee for the Town Fayre.
Season ends
THIS season of Sunday afternoon teas at St Mary’s Church in Compton Dando will continue until Monday, August 26th. They began at Easter raising funds for the church.
Shepton show
MEMBERSof Shepton Mallet u3a are busy creating exhibits for a show at the end of August, entitled "Essence of Summer".
Paintings, drawings, photographs, textiles, even sculptures will be displayed at Create#8 near the Market Place, August 29th-31st.
They say it is not a competition, just an entertaining way of showing who they are and maybe attracting some new members.
Paulton Olympics
THE Olympics have arrived early in Paulton, thanks to the Pride in Paulton Partnership, a group of seven ladies who have helped look after the village for the last 11 years.
They have constructed a podium at Hill Court and are encouraging villagers to go and have their photos taken.
There is also a structure of five tyres, donated by Central Garage, painted in the Olympic colours, on the corner of Alexandra Park and High Street in Paulton.
A spokesperson for PiP said: “We got the idea last year and knew that we would need permission from the Olympic Committee.
“We contacted them and we were really pleased when they said they were happy for us to go ahead with our projects. We hope people will enjoy seeing the Olympic rings around the village.”
The seven members are Hilary Smyth, Lynn Madden, Hazel Rowcliffe, Gail Garlick, Haley Shackleton, Becky Parker and Carol Godwin.
Cheddar duck race
CHEDDAR Vale Lions Club will be holding their annual duck races in the gorge on August Bank Holiday Monday, August 26th.
Tickets are now available on their website and through a QR Code on their posters. As in previous years, a major part of the funds raised will be donated to Children’s Hospice South West and the remainder to aid their work in the Cheddar Valley community.
Pictured (l to r): Richard Sutton, Debby Huxham and Rosemary Blatchford
Serving teas (l to r) Steph Butler, Jenny Davis and Anne Milbin
Villagers know how to party!
RESIDENTS of the Charlton group of villagers near Somerton came out in force to support the annual fun day, raising money for much-needed improvements to the Charltons Community Centre they share.
Live music from a wide variety of acts, a dog show, stalls and other attractions kept visitors happy throughout the afternoon. The fundraiser was organised by the Trustees of the Charltons Memorial Community Trust.
WI celebrates
THE75th anniversary of the founding of the Rodney Stoke and Draycott Women’s Institute took place at Draycott Village Hall.
The 75 years of friendship, fun and education was celebrated with games, strawberries and cream and wine!
Members of Simply Uke +, who come from the Glastonbury, Street, Meare and East Horrington areas
Winners of the waggiest tail competition with their owners and dog show organiser, dog behavourist Jo Southway, of Hornblotton, near Ditcheat
Norman, Lorraine and Dot on the human fruit machine run by Charltons Churches Singer songwriter Kaiden Allen
Jude (left) and Claire) were fundraising on behalf of the Friends of Chartlon Mackrell School
Guide dog fundraiser is club’s new president
Club secretary Alison Webb presents Helen with the president’s chain of office
THE Inner Wheel Club of Mendip has welcomed Helen McCann – along with her guide dog Poppy – as its new president.
Helen has enthusiastically taken on the position despite only being a member of the club for a year. Although blind/severely sight impaired, Helen has been a very successful fundraiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind, which will be her charity for the year.
Helen is well-used to taking on challenges and has taken part in the Bath Half Marathon and the London Marathon and has written a book about her experiences. She intends to enter these events again in 2025 and is currently training for the Langport Triathlon in September.
As well as becoming club president, she is continuing with writing her second book and fitting in speaking engagements.
Popular lunches
Some of the volunteers (l to r) Pam King, Eilish McNickle, Jane Flower and Catherine
THEfortnightly ploughman’s lunches at Pensford’s Old Schoolroom are proving to be popular, with more and more people attending.
The next lunches will be on August 7th and 21st and September 4th and 18th.
Details: Eilish McNickle 07907 910529 or Jane Garner on 07780 677253
Club prepares to step out in style for 70th anniversary
Three charities – to be confirmed – will benefit from the twoday fundraiser, due to take place on September 28th and September 29th.
New president
JOHNAlvis is the new president of Wrington Vale Rotary Club. He is pictured receiving the badge of office from retiring president Angie Biggs.
Angie has had a very successful year featuring an extensive schools’ programme including Young Musician, Youth Speaks, Young Chef and a special weekend break for young carers.
This has been funded by events: Vintage car Big Breakfast, Jazz in the Orchard and the Harvest Home Festival.
Surplus funds have been donated to Bristol Eye Hospital and the Frenchay After Burns Children’s club (FAB), as well as to the Water Survival Box scheme and the Rotary Foundation which supports major world initiatives such as helping to eliminate polio.
Details: Angie Biggs 07790 400718 and Facebook
Miller
THE Inner Wheel Club of Shepton Mallet is preparing to celebrate its Platinum Jubilee with a 70km walk by members in aid of charity.
Retiring president Judi Rice (left) hands over the chain of office to incoming president Janet Thornborough
Let’s party –Italian style
HUNDREDS of people gathered in sunshine on the edge of Wells for the annual Romulus and Remus Italian Festival, celebrating the city’s proud links with Italy forged down the years.
Festeggiamo! – Let’s Party! – was top of the agenda for an afternoon of food, wine, live music and chatter. The party once again raised money for local good causes.
The mayor of Wells, Jasmine Browne, prepared to open the festival, watched by consort, Bill Nuttall, and festival organisers
Pictured (l to r): Gabrielle, Manon and Sabrina
Steve (standing) with Sarah, Diane and Trish on their table in one of the marquees
Soaking up the atmosphere
Here to help: St John Ambulance volunteers (l to r) George, George. Jane, Ethan and Helen. St John locally has now been reorganised in the St John Mendip Network
An exhibition celebrating the city’s proud links with Italy has opened at Wells and Mendip Museum to coincide with the festival
Festival of sport and music
BLAGDONPlaying Fields Association organised Blagfest, raising funds to improve facilities at The Mead.
Hundreds of locals attended the event, and residents and local groups provided entertainment and sporting activities, all compared by Dr Phil Hammond.
The event was sponsored by Penny Plant Hire’s hot air balloon, and supported by local voluntary groups, Blagsaey art and Blagdon Fire Crew, as well as Bishop Sutton Tennis Club.
Details: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/bpfa
A space hopper race
The Tina Pluchino band
Volunteer fireman Chris in the tug of war
Basketball was on offer
Rowan, U16s wellie wanging winner
Local dance group CYD
Rising to the challenge
THEYeo Valley Organic Garden provided a magical setting for Rising Waters, a brilliant and ambitious community play from Valley Arts, which celebrates its tenth anniversary next year.
The performance, involving a professional creative team and amateur performers, started with cast members reading submissions to the project’s writing competition.
Then there was a procession to the stage for the main performance, a captivating exploration of how water shaped our past and the importance of respecting nature in the future.
Start of the procession
Louise Maitland-Round
Olivia Davies
The finale Poppy Marsh
Rowan Ford
Flower show reaches 80
THEannual flower show in the village of Theale celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, having been held on the first Saturday in September since just after D-Day in 1944.
When the “Dig for Victory” campaign was announced, Burnett Champney, a local cider maker and landowner, started the Theale Flower and Fruit Show. His wife Flossy provided meals for guests and competition judges, which they ate with her own best silver service.
Archie Gibbs recruited the Burtle Silver Band to march through the village to open the show, which is a remarkable community effort by locals every year.
The show provides a showcase for locally grown produce, flowers, arts and crafts, but also draws these rural villages together with a day of fun and activities for the whole family in the village hall and the beautiful orchard gifted to the village by a local resident, Ann Bodley.
One of the organisers said: “In post-Covid times, the cost-ofliving crisis, and following widespread flooding, those of us living in the shadow of the beautiful Mendip Hills will really
The scene last year
welcome a family day of fun, showcasing our community’s resilience, and displaying the best of our country life in this blessed place.”
The show is on Saturday, September 7th, with the formal opening at 2.30pm by BBC Radio Somerset’s Claire Carter
Glastonbury’s sheepskin heritage
THERed Brick Building in Glastonbury will be setting up and hosting a regular Heritage Café for older people in Glastonbury and beyond, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund,
The team hope that this will provide a welcoming and friendly place for people to gather, socialise and share their memories of sheepskin companies, Morlands and Baily’s.
This project builds on work done last year as part of Historic England’s “Everyday Heritage” scheme, which explored the memories and experiences of people who had worked at the two large sheepskin manufacturers.
Project co-ordinator, Alison Horgan, said: “We noticed that in some ways, this remarkable part of Glastonbury’s history has been forgotten. We think it is really important to honour the people who made such a huge contribution to our local community and economy and to share their stories far and wide.”
The café will be held on the last Friday of each month between 10am and 12.30pm and is free and open to all. The first session will be on Friday, September 27th.
Society celebrates 50 years
CHEW Valley Local History Society celebrated its 50th anniversary with a lunch for 76 people and a lecture at Folly Farm.
The society was started by Ian and Mary Duirham of Chew Magna and is now looking forward to its next winter lecture season starting on October 2nd.
The lecture on Sutton Court and the Family of St. Loe was given by Colin Budge.
Details: Russ Peters 01275332741 07976266427 or email russpeters@btinternet.com
Exploring Mendip’s caves
A MAJOR new exhibition, Out of Time: Underground Mendip, has opened at Wells & Mendip Museum.
The exhibition includes the pioneering works of Herbert Balch, John Hassall, and Harry Savory, who unravelled the mysteries of Mendip caves, with new contemporary works by Ben Rivers and Emma Stibbon, inspiring us to imagine the future of this subterranean world.
At its heart is a series of black and white pen and ink drawings by Balch, the museum's founder, which are being shown for the first time.
His motto, “Search and Learn”, has been lent to a wider three-year project at the museum supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Balch’s drawings from the 1900s result from a relentless investigation into how the caves have been formed and used by humans for 45,000 years.
The 1914 publication Wookey Hole: its Cave and Cave Dwellers was the culmination of years of research by Balch in collaboration with the photographer Harry Savory and the graphic artist John Hassall.
The book will be displayed alongside examples of the three artists’ work and archaeological specimens.
The Search and Learn project has been made possible thanks to an award of £194,600 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and a bequest from the late Jean Imray – a former trustee of the museum and Wells City Archivist.
The exhibition runs until September 7th.
Former workers
Morlands' fire brigade members 1970
Dear Homeowner,
Single
New Roofs
Terraced
Make sure the price is right
WHEN it comes to selling a property it’s vital to remember the three “P’s” –Preparation, Presentation and Price, and the most important of them all is Price.
We are seeing more and more prospective buyers looking for homes in the Chew Valley and it’s no surprise that they are attracted by the wonderful environment and the lifestyle that we all enjoy, but don’t imagine they are waving around blank cheques.
It is true that mortgage lenders are being friendlier than they have been in the past and that makes it slightly easier for buyers to raise funds. However, they are still price sensitive, so it is crucial you set a realistic value for your home.
I believe that understanding the local market is our one of our super-powers, based on experience, intelligence and expertise built up over many years. The proof of the pudding is the number of our boards with “Sold” on them.
I know it can be tempting, when a
younger and less experienced agent comes along and suggests your house is worth a sky-high figure, but my advice is not to be fooled into wishful thinking because there is nothing worse than putting off buyers when your house first comes onto the market by an over inflated price and then having to reduce it later. The damage will already have been done.
Of course, it’s not all about price. There are the other two “P’s” to think about, and we’ll use our renowned Dedication, Imagination and Delivery to help you with those.
Preparation is about making sure your home is looking its very best. So, we will help advise you on getting those little jobs done that you’ve been putting off, tidying the garden and taking a hard look at all the bits and pieces you’ve gathered over the years. You might think clutter is charming and homely, but a prospective buyer could differ!
Presentation is another of our super-
powers. We take great care to set the stage so your home performs to its very best when people are coming to view and we will produce the very best photography which will feature on our state of the art website (joannatiley.com) to put a spotlight on your home which will make it shine. There is no doubt that the market is warming up with lots of properties and buyers in the Chew Valley, so if you want your home to stand out from the crowd come and talk to us and we’ll get you moving.
JOANNA TILEY
West Harptree rings the changes
SPEED reduction measures, a new roundabout and virtual footway have been introduced in West Harptree as part of traffic calming works recently completed by Bath & North East Somerset Council.
The changes were completed with the aim of increasing the safety of all road users in the village.The scheme also included new signage, road markings and an extended footway.
The scheme’s most significant change was the introduction of a mini-roundabout at the junction between the A368 Bath Road and East Harptree Road. The new roundabout is an effective form of traffic calming and will reduce vehicle speeds when entering and leaving the village.
A 1.2m wide virtual footway has also been introduced along a stretch of the A368 Bath Road as it narrows through the village, making it safer for pedestrians as the road is too narrow for a pavement.
New give-way points have also been installed, which narrow sections of the highway and reduce approaching vehicle speeds.
Councillor Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “These changes will improve the safety of all road users and pedestrians in West Harptree.”
The Glenda Spooner rescue and rehoming centre
SOMETIMESwe read about or see pictures of neglected horses, often after they have been removed from their owners and rescued by charitable organisations. I have usually shied away from finding out what happens next and what becomes of these poor animals who will probably be terrified and in poor condition. It’s just too upsetting.
Many years ago I came across a few mares who were kept in a sorry state and eventually I notified the then International League for Protection of Horses (ILPH) who responded efficiently and took control of the situation.
Founded in 1927 by Ada Cole, the ILPH was originally formed to stop horses being exported for butchery. In 2008, after a year-long consultation with staff from the charity, supporters and the general public, a rebranding was unveiled at Badminton Horse Trials, when it became what we now know as World Horse Welfare.
The charity has since grown internationally as well as at home, to become an amazing organisation which does wonderful work both here and abroad, offering employment and enjoyment for many people while saving horses and ponies from dire circumstances, often caused by neglect or cruelty.
If and where it is possible, they work with owners who for many reasons can no longer care for their horses. World Horse Welfare’s four rescue and rehoming centres around the country take horses and ponies from all over the UK.
They can come from individual owners in need of help and support, or large groups of ponies which are often from cases of overbreeding as well as abandonments. Some of these cases will involve other agencies such as the RSPCA and other equine charities from around the country.
Here in Somerset, we have one of the four World Horse Welfare farms. Glenda Spooner Rescue and Rehoming Centre occupies over 200 acres of beautiful land just outside Somerton and is home to between 60 and 90 horses and ponies at any one time. Do not feel sorry for any of them, because believe me, they have the best life!
I hesitated before I decided to visit the farm, because I was scared of what I might see. I was certainly surprised at what I did see, and completely blown away by the whole set up… the facilities, the cleanliness, the layout, the organisation, the lovely friendly staff who showed me round and of course the lucky horses and ponies living, as they say, in clover.
All horses and ponies that come to the centre follow a rehabilitation programme, with an aim of rehoming each one. Every rehomed horse releases a space that another animal in need can take. All will be thoroughly assessed by the team at the farm on arrival, along with the vet and farrier who attend the farm each week.
The experienced and knowledgeable staff dedicate their time to ensuring each horse or pony’s needs are met right up the point of rehoming. Once they have come out of the isolation area, they may join other horses on the farm or have their own dedicated area, dependent on their level of handling and their temperaments.
For visitors, there are farm walks, tours of the centre, superb café and a shop. There is plenty of wildlife to observe as well as the equine variety, all in a beautiful setting. Who knows, you may even be inspired to rehome a pony.
On August 15th, World Horse Welfare are launching Stable Squad, a new club for animal-loving children, bringing the values of the organisation to a new generation. For adults, a regular donation to the Sponsoring a Stableyard scheme could help to enable a horse in need to get help, leading hopefully to a pairing with a loving home.
Pony club competitions –in full swing for the summer
MEANWHILE,the competition season is in full swing. The Mendip Farmers Pony Club is as active as ever thanks to the continuing hard work and generosity shown by the team of volunteers who make it all possible.
They recently hosted the area qualifier rounds for the Regional and National Showjumping Championships at Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre and had over 200 entries from teams all over the South West.
Starting very early in the morning, with the last competitor riding at 7.30pm, made it a very long day. Stalwarts of the Pony Club for over 30 years, Rosemary Reakes and Jill Britten who were District Commissioner and Secretary of the Mendip Farmers PC respectively all through the 90s, stayed the whole 13 and a half hours fielding questions, directing children, sorting out prizes, and generally contributing to the smooth running of the event.
It was a true family affair, with Jill’s daughters (current District Commissioner Wendy Britten and her sister Fiona Penfold) organising the classes, checking all rules were kept, and finding time to support both their own daughters who were either competing on their ponies or rebuilding any jumps that were knocked down during the day.
Efforts were well rewarded… all Mendip teams qualified to go forward. The 70 and 80 cm. teams will go to Bicton for the Area Championships next month and the 90 cm. and metre teams will go to Offchurch Bury for the Nationals, so congratulations to all teams.
Hot on the heels of the Showjumping competition came the Tetrathlon area qualifier at Ledbury. Shooting, swimming, running on the Saturday followed by Cross Country riding on the Sunday over a tricky course took a few prisoners, but it was a great weekend of sport and all came home unscathed. You can’t win ’em all!
The Eventing is next so it’s all go and at least it will soon be the summer holidays, so no school for a few weeks. (Can I hear cheers?!)
At last there is news of a good down to earth Horse and Pony Show and Gymkhana coming up –a chance for everyone to go out and have a fun day regardless of their ability. Put the date in your diary. It’s
September 1st at Whitewood Farm, Norton Lane, Whitchurch BS14 0BU, by kind permission of Mr and Mrs PN Britten.
All competitors must book at least one class before the day, with entries closing on August 29th. As long as you have booked one class, you can then enter as many as you like on the day. See Mendip Farmers Pony Club Open Horse show.
Rosemary and Jill
Anybody want a medal?
IT’Sthat time of year when coloured arrow signs, about the size of a large envelope, start appearing on roadside posts and telegraph poles. They stay for a few days, usually just before a weekend, and then disappear almost as quickly afterwards. These are not direction markers to a private party but instead are, in all probability, marking the route for a cyclo-sportive that is or will be taking place.
Often simply referred to as a sportive, it is a short to long distance organised mass participation cycling event. They are not races, the emphasis is on participation and encouraging people to cycle. More often than not the event aims to raise funds for charity, with a good portion of the entrance fee going to specified charities.
The motivation for taking part can vary from rider to rider. Usually that is trying to measure up to a personal challenge by achieving something difficult, at whatever level that may be. It could also be to raise money through sponsorship for a charity and/or in memory of a loved one. Or it could be to become fitter and healthier. Entering an event is a great target for exercise – the hard work isn’t done on the day of the event it is in all of the preparation and practice that went beforehand. Riders normally carry a number and the time they take to complete the course is usually recorded. There is usually an upper time limit within which the course must be completed, but no lower limit that prevents riders from completing the course quickly.
Whatever the reason for riding a sportive, most organisers do not publish finishing positions. This aims to recognise that everyone who completes the event has “won”.
One of the nice things about riding in a sportive is that the routes will be well sign-posted (by the arrow signs!). This means you can just enjoy the ride without worrying about when to turn next. Sometimes there are marshals at busy junctions and in a few events like Ride London the roads are closed to traffic.
In addition, there are feeding station positions at intervals along the route with “proper” food – which are much nicer and healthier than energy gels. Also, mechanical and medical support are usually available to deal with any incidents along the way.
I have cycled in several sportives, both near and afar. One of the things that always attracts me is the opportunity to follow a new route. Yet on the day, it is more than just the route. I know
that if I cycled the same course on my own on another day it would not be the same ride, something would be missing.
And that would be the camaraderie amongst all the riders. From first timers on old bikes that have been pulled out of the garden shed to club riders in shiny lycra, each plays their part. Having said that you do get some strange folk now and then. There was one time when I was riding along the closed roads of Ride London when I came across a chap who had a loud hooter on his bike. As I approached, I could hear he was beeping it much to the amusement of the onlookers that we passed by.
After a minute or two it got a bit annoying, so I planned my escape. On the climb and descent of Box Hill in Surrey I tried to put in as much distance between the two of us as possible. And, if I ever heard it faintly in the distance, I would push myself on again. It worked, and perhaps because of that I recorded my fastest ever time!
At the end of a sportive there is usually some form of recognition. I was looking through some drawers the other day and came across a collection of finishing medals. They brought back some happy memories, but I know that they will never come out of that drawer again. They were for one day only and quite rightly so.
It has not always been like that. The Great Weston Ride is one of the most popular local sportives. It chases a route from Long Ashton into Chew Valley, over the Mendip Hills, across the Somerset Levels and into Weston-super-Mare.
I took part in one of the early editions (2011) where the reward was free fish and chips from the local chippy and a bottle of Butcombe Beer. Is a medal any better than that?
Club chairman Nigel Lee and Harry Cobden at the opening of the gala. They are pictured with Harry’s girlfriend, Oliva, who was presented with a bouquet; Harry received a club tie. Also pictured are visitors Willow and mum, Louise
LYDFORD Sports Club held its annual gala to celebrate its ongoing success at the heart of the local community.
Dicheat-based National Hunt jockey Harry Cobden was the guest of honour at the gala at the ground near Castle Cary.
Lydford Sports Club fields two senior sides and four junior sides in local cricket leagues, a senior football team in the Yeovil League and a skittles team in the Castle Cary Skittle league.
The money raised by the annual gala goes towards the upkeep of their pavilion, buying of equipment and ground maintenance.
Anyone for table tennis?
ATABLEtennis group in Compton Dando is inviting people to join them in the village hall to play social adult friendly and informal table tennis.
They say they welcome all abilities, in particular those who haven’t played for a number of years but who would like to play again with a friendly sociable group of people.
The cost per session is £5 and includes tea/coffee and biscuits. Any money made after expenses goes to Julian House in Bath, around £1,000 every Christmas.
Richard Davis
Basketball winners
CHILDRENin local primary schools took part in the B&NES basketball tournament at St Nicholas Primary School in Radstock. Chew Stoke primary school were delighted to take part and ended up winning.
Head teacher Ben Hewett, said: “What stood out during the competition was the great sportsmanship demonstrated between the teams taking part and how polite they were.”
Anniversary celebration
MARKMoor Bowling Club celebrated 40 years since its foundation in 1984. The founding members created a green from a farmer’s field and later built their own clubhouse.
Club president Mary Watt
gave thanks to the current players who still maintain the green and buildings. On a sunny afternoon some fun games were played and much cake consumed while old friends caught up with each other!
Pictured (l to r) three men’s captains Malcolm Bennett, Gerald Durston, Pete Beavan and chairman Bill Murphy
Olympic hopeful
LUKA Williams, aged 21, from Midsomer Norton has his eyes fixed firmly on the Winter Olympics being held in Italy in 2026.
He’s worked his way into British Bobsleigh’s top team and is hoping to confirm that position in the next two seasons.
Since he joined the men’s squad two years ago, he’s competed all over the world in both two-man and four-man competitions.
He was a member of Bath Rugby’s Academy when he went on a trial day for British Bobsleigh’s junior squad at the University of Bath, where the bobsleigh team is based.
He said: “I had to choose between bobsleigh and rugby and after a lot of thought I went with bobsleigh, even though it scares me.”
He’s currently juggling working in construction around a very busy training schedule where he’s either at the gym or the track.
He said he’s extremely grateful for the support he’s had from past and present sponsors but is always on the look-out for new sponsors as he’s a self-funded athlete.
He also has very supportive parents Vikki and Danny. Grandad, Dave Pilkington, said: “We are so proud of him.”
Airman’s memorial
MEMBERSof the RAFA MidSomerset Branch held their annual competition for the Sqn Ldr Ron Fell RAFA Trophy at Mendip Golf Club.
This year a bumper entry of 148 players took part in the competition that was won, surprise surprise, by the club captain, Mark Necker, with a round of 66!
Ron Fell joined the RAF in 1941 and trained to become a wireless operator/air gunner (WOpAg). He was awarded the DFC partly for rescuing crew from his blazing aircraft after a crash landing.
Ron retired from the RAF after the war and in January 1952 became licensee of the Kings Arms Shepton Mallet (known locally as the “Dusthole”) and joined the Shepton Mallet Branch of RAFA.
In March 1955, Ron was elected chairman of the branch, a position he held until he stood down in March 1959.
In April 1993, RAFA Shepton Mallet Branch joined together with the RAFA Street & Glastonbury Branch to become the RAFA Mid-Somerset Branch.
The existence of the competition and the trophy was lost until last year when one of the branch members, Yvonne Mapstone, rediscovered it. She is pictured with the trophy. The competition is now an annual event.
Remembering “Pud”
Thomas Palacio (left) and Thomas Corns (right) on a training run in Wells
WELLS Rugby Club stalwart Thomas Palacio will once again be pounding the streets to raise money for vital research into brain tumour research in memory of his teammate James “Pud” Pullen. Thomas and his best friend Tom Corns will be setting October 11th October to run from Plymouth Research Centre to Wells Town Hall, arriving home on October 13th.
Tom Corns said: “Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving –they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate –saving time and cutting costs for the charity.”
They have set a target of raising £5,000 on their run but meanwhile, the rugby club will once again host its annual Party for Pud at the end of August.
For details, find Tom Corns on Facebook or Justgiving
Luka, acting as brake man at the rear, with pilot, Adam Baird
Shanty music in town
The Steepholmers
WESTON-super-Mare’s fourth sea shanty and folk music festival will feature more than 40 bands from all over the UK and beyond.
This year’s festival takes place from Friday, August 2nd to Sunday, August 4th at venues across the town. Admission to all venues will be free of charge.
Last year’s festival raised £3,000 in donations for Westonsuper-Mare RNLI and the Weston-super-Mare Lions Club.
The festival is now a major event in the South West music calendar bringing an opportunity for everyone to enjoy live music in a safe and family-friendly way.
Details: https://www.wsmshantyfest.com/
Medieval music
AN evening of medieval and traditional summer songs will be held at the Church of the Holy Saviour at Puxton on Sunday, August 4th. It will be performed by Dead Space Chamber, with free entry and donations to the Churches Conservation Trust.
This is a wonderful medieval church with a noticeably leaning tower on the low-lying north Somerset Levels.
Details: www.visitchurches.org.uk
Chorale21 a new choir for mid-Somerset
A NEW choir is about to burst onto the Somerset music scene –Chorale21 will bridge the gap between a choral society and small chamber choir.
As a medium-sized choir of about 40 singers, rehearsing in Glastonbury, Chorale21 will sing a diverse repertoire from the Renaissance to the 21st century.
Their first concert will be in April 2025 in St John’s Church, Glastonbury, and will include James Whitbourn’s Requiem Canticorum. Written in 2010, and accompanied by organ and saxophone, it is typical of some of the undiscovered music that Chorale21 will champion.
Aimed at singers with some experience, Chorale21 will be directed by Matthew Redman. Matthew is Director of Music at St John’s Glastonbury, often plays the organ at Wells Cathedral and is well known as a choral conductor.
Before the choir’s debut, their first event will be “Come and Sing Handel’s Messiah” (the choruses), on Saturday, November 23rd in the Catholic Church Community Hall, Cheddar.
Matthew said: “I am very excited to be leading this new choir; there is so much music out there waiting to be heard. Of course, we will sing some tried and tested favourites as well, but Chorale21 will always include something written this century in every performance”.
For details, visit: www.chorale21.org.uk or email: info@chorale21.org.uk
Youth theatre
VALLEYArts Youth Theatre is now recruiting for September, for youngsters aged 7-13, with sessions every Wednesday evening during term time in Chew Magna Baptist Church.
They aim to produce one main production a year in the summer term. Their Play in a Week summer camp takes place from August 5th-9th at the Baptist church.
Details: laura.davies@valleyartscentre.co.uk
Choir director Matthew Redman
New conductor
GLASTONBURYBrass have announced Liam Grunsell, the current bandmaster of the Grenadier Guards, as the band’s new resident conductor.
Upon his graduation in 2013, Liam joined the British Army and was posted with the Band of the Irish Guards.
During this time he performed at every major state ceremonial event in the UK, including The Queen’s Birthday Parade, the National Act of Remembrance, State Opening of Parliament, The Festival of Remembrance, Her Majesty’s 90th Birthday Celebration, and numerous Gun Salutes and State Visits.
He said: "I'm delighted to be taking the helm and I’m determined to help the band flourish. I look forward to working with them and pushing for that next level together."
Glastonbury Brass will be playing next at Taunton Flower Show as well as defending their title in the "Brassed Off at the Horse" summer series in Stourpaine.
Details: glastonburybrass@gmail.com Facebook and YouTube
Choir on the move
CHEW Valley Choral Society is a friendly choir which has been rehearsing and performing in the Chew Valley for nearly 50 years, most recently under the direction of David Bednall, a choral conductor and composer known both locally and nationally.
In September, the choir’s Tuesday rehearsals will be moving to Bishop Sutton village hall, which has good access from many areas of the Chew Valley and beyond.
Rehearsals start on September 10th for the next concert which will be on November 30th in St Andrew’s, Chew Magna. It will feature pieces by Mozart, Saint-Saëns and Chilcott.
Lottery funding
LOCALcommunity group, Sing2breathe, is celebrating after being awarded £17,000 in National Lottery funding to support its work with those suffering from respiratory conditions.
The groups in Cheddar, Wells and Bridgwater will use the money to enable them to continue to run the supportive sessions in the future.
Sing2breathe has been running since October 2023 and is one of many Singing for Lung Health Groups nationally. It was founded by community choir leader, Kate Lynch, with the aim of using singing to help those with respiratory conditions to manage their breathlessness better.
She said: “It’s not about being a great singer, it’s about using singing to help you breathe more efficiently.”
The groups meet either weekly or fortnightly and use the opportunity to socialise as well as participating in physical, breathing and vocal exercises. One participant summed up their experience: “I love it and feel better for doing it!”
The choir always welcomes new members and on September 17th it will be holding a “taster session”, free of charge and open to singers of all levels
Details: https://www.chewvalleychoral.org.uk
of experience of choral singing to give them an opportunity to see if they would like to join the choir.
Step back in time –or into the future –at heritage sites
FROM fantasy time travel – courtesy of Dr Who – to a real-life exploration of Somerset’s past and a chance to meet some of the county’s leading printmakers, South West Heritage Trust’s sites at Glastonbury, Avalon Marshes and Taunton, are definitely places to visit this summer.
A showcase of artwork by 13 printmakers living and working in Somerset is running at the Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury until September 1st. Somerset Printmakers are a group of professional artists passionate about creating original prints and pushing the boundaries of what printmaking can be. They will be displaying monoprints and limited editions prints inspired by the county they live in, adopting different styles and techniques.
Exhibitions Manager, Sarah Cox, said: “The exhibition aims to be an inclusive way of accessing heritage and culture
while celebrating printmaking as fine art.”
The summer season at Avalon Archaeology at Westhay features a range of events and activities exploring the county’s archaeology, Viking and Stone Age past. Running from July 28th until September
Time travel 2024-syle: enjoy a Viking experience at Avalon Archaeology
1st, events include an archaeology day on Thursday, August 1st, Viking storytelling with Michael Loader around the open fire in the Long Hall, on Saturday, August 10th and a “Hands On Heritage Day” on Monday, August 19th.
Meanwhile, Dr Who fans will want to step inside the Tardis to journey to the Museum of Somerset in Taunton for its nostalgia-filled ride with its latest exhibition, “Adventures in Time and Space – 60 Years of Doctor Who Art.”
The exhibition is the largest collection of original and digital Doctor Who art ever shown in one location. Alongside the iconic art on display, there will be children’s activities every week of the summer holiday, each exploring a different theme, from space and monsters to dinosaurs and robots. The exhibition runs until October 5th.
details, visit the South West Heritage Trust website: www.swheritage.org.uk
SOMERSET MINERS’ WELFARE TRUST REUNION 2024
Sponsored by the Somerset Miners’ Welfare Trust
At the Old Down Inn, Emborough, Radstock BA3 4SA.
Monday, September 2nd, 12pm for 12.30pm
H Restricted to ex-NCB employees
H Two-course meal (with a beer or two)
All ex-NCB employees must book their place by ringing 01761 471350 by Friday, August 23rd.
Frankie returns to Cross
A PACKED Memorial Hall in Cross recently hosted an amazing performance of “Howerd’s End” in aid of the Frankie Howerd OBE Trust given by professional actors Mark Farrelly (who also wrote it) and Simon Cartwright.
The play deals with the tumultuous, yet touching, relationship between Frankie and his partner/manager Dennis Heymer who lived for many years just opposite the hall.
Details: Phil Davies 07881 630629
Frankie Howerd’s Community + Hub
Sevier Road, Loxton, Axbridge, Somerset BS26 2XE OPEN EVERY DAY 9.30am-4.30pm
Serving Breakfast, Ice Creams, Cakes, Lunches and Cream Teas All our profits go to The Frankie Howerd OBE Trust
TELEPHONE: 01934 244362
WINSCOMBE & DISTRICT BRIDGE CLUB
LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE!
Winscombe & District Bridge Club is offering two courses of Bridge lessons starting Monday 7th October at Winscombe Community Centre.
Bridge is a fascinating game which improves logic, thinking skills, concentration. Bridge can be played socially or competitively at home, online or at a local club. It is inexpensive and creates an opportunity to make new friends.
Courses last 10 weeks and cost £70 Mondays 10.00am-12.30pm improvers; 1.00-3.30pm beginners
Call Janet O’Brien 01934 253889 for a friendly chat; Janet is a qualified and experienced English Bridge Union teacher bridgewebs.com/winscombe
Frome Cheese Show –“as interactive” as possible
ORGANISERS of this year’s Frome Cheese Show, on Saturday, September 14th, say it will offer a traditional agricultural day out for all the family –with lots of opportunities to get involved in the fun throughout the day.
As well as the usual top-quality livestock – and of course the unique cheese show itself, with entries coming in from all over the world – the emphasis this year will be on hands-on activities and entertainment.
Under the leadership of lady chairman Kirsten Penny and president Michael Rogers, the organisers, the Frome Agricultural and Cheese Show Society, have drawn up a timetable which includes main arena sensation Jonathan Marshall, a professional falconer and horse trainer with his Free Spirits live experience, Shepton Malletbased Wurzels tribute band The
Mangled Wurzels, on the Music Stage and the brilliant Fun Kitchen in the
Food and Cheese Pavilion, a very much hands-on cookery experience for youngsters.
The Rockets, a junior motorbike display team, will be taking to the Village Green, whilst there will be an expanded Vintage Machinery area, thanks to support from the Richard Oatley Foundation.
The cheese judging itself is a private event taking place on the Thursday prior to the show but the winning entries will be on display on show day itself, which will also see the hugelypopular cheese auction when the pavilion will also host dozens of food stands.
With a free play zone for younger visitors, other have-a-go attractions include axe-throwing, archery and laser clay pigeon shooting!
Don’t miss the Mangled Wurzels!
Literature festival –yet another impressive line-up
POET Pam Ayres is just one among an eclectic line-up of speakers who will bring humour and insight to this year's Wells Festival of Literature which takes place from October 18th-26th.
Pam, who has been making the nation laugh for almost 50 years, will read highlights from some of her best-loved books including Who Are You Calling Vermin? a tale of country conflict that is currently being adapted for a theatre musical.
The festival opens on Friday, October 18th with two very different speakers – first Susie Dent, queen of Channel 4's Countdown for over three decades, with amusing tales of the bizarre stories behind such phrases as Sweet Fanny Adams.
She is followed by human rights lawyer Shami Chakrabarti with her indispensable guide to the history of the struggle for universal freedoms.
Nine days later quizzing mastermind Paul Sinha brings the festival to a heart-warming close with an account of a quest for happiness.
In between, well-known speakers cover topics from politics to philosophy to exploding tomatoes, promising humour and a diverse range of subjects for debate.
As part of its year-round educational work, the festival also hosts its increasingly popular sessions for Year 6 youngsters from local schools who are bussed in for the event.
Details: www.wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk
Pam Ayres
Show preparations are maturing nicely!
RICHARD Clothier, managing director of the global Wyke Farm Cheese company has, spoken of his immense pride at the thought of representing the family-run firm as president of this year’s Mid-Somerset Agricultural Show in Shepton Mallet in August.
Rich, the third generation to run Wyke Farms on the edge of Bruton, succeeded Tony Guidi as president in March this year.
Rich said: “The Mid-Somerset Agricultural Show is an important day in the local calendar; and I am honoured to have the opportunity to be part of this wonderful day out for the whole family. The event is a focal event for the rural and farming community and one that my family have a long history in attending.
“One hundred and twenty years years ago, my greatgrandfather was winning prizes at the show for his dairy cows and so I feel proud to continue my family connection to the show as the President for 2024.”
Roger Noble, who has a passion for the show’s heritage, is planning a special exhibition in the Heritage Marquee on show day, Sunday, August 18th, which will feature
information about Granny Ivy Clothier, whose secret recipe for cheddar led to the company’s success.
The Mid-Somerset Show is the only one-day show in the south west with free entrance for pedestrians.
Rich Clothier (left) with show chairman Graham Harvey and outgoing president Tony Guidi
T HE M ENDIP T IMES W HAT
We’re happy to list entries for non-profit community group meetings and charity fundraisers free of charge. Commercial listings are £25. Please send your entries as a succinct single paragraph, in a format that can be copied and pasted (not as a pdf) to: annie@mendiptimes.co.uk
Until Saturday September 7th
Out of Time: underground Mendip exhibition, Wells & Mendip Museum. Details: www.wellsmuseum.org.uk
Wednesday July 24th
Pensford Ploughman’s Lunch 12 to 2pm, Old School Room. All welcome. Details: Jane 07780 677253.
Wells Folk Night: sing a song, play a tune or just listen. All welcome, 8.30pm City Arms, BA5 2 AG. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com
Thursday July 25th
West Mendip Walkers moderate 11m circular walk starting 9.30am from NT Quarts Moor Car Park, TA21 9NZ. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk
Friday July 26th
TOUT’S Food Fest 12-4pm in their orchard at Cleeve, BS49 4NR. Free entry, food samples, kids’ activities! Local food suppliers’ stalls, bar, live music. Details: www.touts.co.uk
Friday July 26th to Sun July 28th
Weston Lions’ Real Ale & Cider Festival, Beach Lawns, Weston. Details: www.westonlionsrealalefestival.co.uk
Saturday July 27th
Yatton & District Horticultural Society Summer Show, 2pm Yatton Village Hall and Glebelands, BS49 4HL www.yattonhorticulturalsociety.co.uk
Timsbury Village Market 9.30-11.30am Conygre field BA2 0JQ. Details: Facebook or www.growtimsbury.org.uk
Compton Dando Church Summer Teas 2.30pm-5pm every Sunday until August 26th.Details: Jenny 01761 490727. St Hugh’s Church, Charterhouse, open for teas every summer Sunday. Chew Magna: music for a summer afternoon, 3pm St Andrew’s, with handbells and recorders. Admission £5. Teas and cakes.
Monday July 29th to Sat August 17th
Temple Cloud in Bloom Plant Pot Sculpture Trail. Details: Facebook or email tcibinfo@yahoo.com
Wednesday July 31st
Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support meeting 1.30pm Backwell WI Hall.
Details: Sheila 01275 462107. Deadline for entries! –for photos in the Chew Valley Nature Photography Festival in September. Details: www.chewvalleynpf.wordpress.com
Thursday August 1st
Chew Valley Death Café meets 12 to 1.30pm Community Library, Bishop Sutton, first Thurs monthly. A safe space to talk about life, death and loss over tea and cake. All welcome. Contact: bryonyhuntley2019@gmail.com
Wells & District Wildlife Group: “Glow Worm Walk” in the lanes of Westbury-subMendip after dark, with Peter Bright. Details: 07415 350062 or www.wdwg.org.uk
Claverham Ladies’ Guild trip to Hillier Garden Centre. Details: 01934 838017. North Somerset Play Forum Free Family Fun Day 11am to 3pm Clarence Road North, Weston, BS23 4AT. Nutty Noah, Punch & Judy & lots of games! Details: Facebook or Quita: 01934 844353. Shepton Mallet u3a meeting, 10am-12 Salvation Army Hall. “Crossing the Severn” by Brian Margetson, non-members £3 incl. refreshments.
West Mendip Walkers moderate 9m circular walk starting 9.30am from Mere, BA12 6HA. W3W: flute.latches.poorly. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk
Friday August 2nd
Stacey Charles ‘Soul & Motown’ 7.45pm Camerton Community Hall. £10 by BACS. Tables, BYO food. Bar from 4pm. Details: 07866 112689.
Friday August 2nd to Sunday August 4th
Weston-s-Mare Sea Shanty & Folk Festival, various venues. Free, with donations to RNLI and Lions. Details: www.wsmshantyfest.com/ Sunday August 4th
Puxton: medieval & traditional summer songs with Dead Space Chamber Music, 3 to 4pm Church of the Holy Saviour, Puxton. Free entry, donations to Churches Conservation Trust. All Welcome.
Monday August 5th
Cheddar Valley Singers: Mondays 78.15pm Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Contact cheddarvalleysingers@gmail.com
Facebook @cheddarvalleysingers Tuesday August 6th
Joyful Voices: Fill your afternoon with song! Tuesdays 1.30 – 3pm. Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Contact joyfulvoicesafternoon@gmail.com
Wednesday August 7th
Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers: In-house fun and games with cards, dominoes etc. 2pm-3.30 WI Hall Backwell.
Sing2breathe for breathlessness – learn techniques for breathing control and improved posture. 1.45-3pm every Wednesday, Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Details: Kate: vocalkate@gmail.com 07595 745884.
Pensford Ploughman’s Lunch 12 to 2pm, Old School Room. All welcome. Details: Jane 07780 677253.
Thursday August 8th
Chew Valley Gardening Club talk by Bett Partridge 'Along the Lanes of Somerset – herbs, fruits & seeds' 8pm Stanton Drew Village Hall. Details: 01275 333456.
Mendip Morris dancing in Winford, 8pm the Prince of Waterloo pub. West Mendip Walkers moderate 12m circular walk starting 9.30am from Sand Bay, BS22 9SE. W3W: fame.broken.rating. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk
Saturday August 10th
Vox in Frox Concert 7pm Holy Trinity Church, Bishop Sutton. Tickets £15 incl refreshments. Details: Janet 01275 332321. Clutton Horticultural Society Flower Show & Village Fete from 12, marquee 2pm. Classic cars, fun dog show, ferret racing, gardening Q’s with Mary Payne. Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws etc.
Parkinson’s NW Somerset Support Group, 10.30am–12.15, St Francis Church, Nailsea, with a speaker from the Parkinson's UK Research Brain Bank. No Singalong sessions during August.
Mells: Jumble sale for the Pavilion fund, 1pm-4 Mells Sports Pavilion, BA11 3PZ. Cash only please.
Mendip Society walk along a new section of the Strawberry Line. Easy 3.5miles with great views of the Hills and Levels. Meet 10.30am at the old school in square, Westbury Sub Mendip BA5 1HD. Contact Richard 07745 834513. No need to book. Non-members £2.
“Dreams & Dresses” charity fashion show of vintage wedding gowns transformed! 7pm Bishop’s Barn, Wells. Tickets £20 from Eventbrite.
Sunday August 11th
The Twerzels, 2pm in the fete marquee, Clutton. £10 incl a cream tea. Bar. Book by text, Mel: 07880 791308 or pay on the gate.
O N G UIDEFOR A UGUST 2024
Monday August 12th
Congresbury Memorial Hall Club: Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome.
Wednesday August 14th
Mendip Storytelling Circle: stories for a grown-up audience, 7.30 to 9.30pm Ston Easton Village Hall, BA3 4DA. Details: www.mendipstorycircle.com
Thursday August 15th
West Mendip Walkers moderate 8m circular walk starting 9.30am from The Furlong, Axbridge, BS26 2JH. W3W: uniforms.blacken.campfires. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk
Chew Valley U3A talk by James Adlington about the history of Bristol Blue Glass, 10.30am Ubley village hall. Visitors welcome, £2.50.
Wednesday August 21st
Pensford Church Tower open & Ploughman’s Lunch 12 to 2pm, Old School Room. All welcome. Details: Jane 07780 677253.
Thursday August 22nd
Mendip Morris dancing in Axbridge outside the Lamb pub at 7.30pm. West Mendip Walkers moderate 11m
circular walk starting 9.30am from East Quantoxhead, TA5 1EJ. W3W: media.suspect.marmalade. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk
Saturday August 24th
Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws etc
Mark Family fun day, 2pm-7pm Mark village hall, TA9 4NY. Giant games, inflatables, face painting. Jazz band, bar, food. Adults £5, kids £3 – on door or: www.ticketsource.co.uk/mark-village-hall Rotary Club of Wells presents Meet the Sikhs 12 to 4pm Wells Cathedral Green, free.
East Brent Harvest Home. Details: ebhh_secretary@outlook.com
High Littleton & Hallatrow Village Day. Details: Facebook. Shipham Harvest Home. Details on Facebook.
Bank Holiday Monday August 26th
Congresbury Memorial Hall Club: Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome. Cheddar Vale Lions duck race, Cheddar Gorge, first race 2pm. Details: www.cheddarvalelions.org.uk
Prickles Hedgehog Rescue coffee morning and sale, Churchill Methodist Church Hall, 10am-12noon. Details: Laura 01934 863679.
Tuesday August 27th
Winscombe Folk Club all welcome, 7.30 for 8pm, £2. Upstairs at Winscombe Club, 7 Sandford Rd BS25 1HD see Facebook Wednesday August 28th
Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support Tea Party, 3pm, WI Hall, Station Rd Backwell. Details, Sheila 01275 462107. Thursday August 29th
West Mendip Walkers easy 10m circular walk starting 9.30am from The Furlong, Axbridge, BS26 2JH. W3W: uniforms.blacken.campfires. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk
Thursday August 29th to Saturday 31st
Shepton Mallet u3a show “Essence of Summer”, paintings, drawings, photos, textiles and sculptures at Create#8, nr the Market Place. Details: www.sheptonmalletu3a.org.uk
Saturday August 31st
Farmborough Flower Show, 2.30pm Memorial Hall, BA2 0AH. Adults £1, children free, refreshments. Details 07866 193 911.
Stanton Drew Flower Show with evening barn dance.
Timsbury Village Market 9.30-11.30am
Conygre field BA2 0JQ. Wide variety of locally produced food, plants, refreshments and more! Details on Facebook or
www.growtimsbury.org.uk
Wrington Show 2.30 to 4.30pm at the Memorial Hall. Adults £1, U16s free.
Monday September 2nd
RAFA branch meeting with talk by Sister Anne Martin “RAF Brats” 11am, then optional lunch. Wells Golf Club, BA5 3DS. email: Lunchrafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057.
Wednesday September 4th
Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers: visit to Cadbury Garden Centre. Booking essential.
Pensford Ploughman’s Lunch 12 to 2pm, Old School Room. All welcome. Details: Jane 07780 677253.
Clevedon Gardener’s Club talk by Claire Hart on Plants for Problem areas. Club usually meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, 7.30pm Kenn Rd Methodist Church Hall, Clevedon BS21 6LH. Details: clevedongardeners.chessck.co.uk
Thursday September 5th
Chew Valley Death Café meets 12 to 1.30pm Community Library, Bishop Sutton, first Thursday monthly. A safe supportive space to talk about life, death and loss over tea and cake. All welcome. Contact: bryonyhuntley2019@gmail.com
Irish Set Dancing 8pm-10 every Thurs, Dinder Village Hall BA5 3PF. £3 incl refreshments. Fun, friendly, no need to book. Details 01458 210051 paulrharper@btopenworld.com
Cheddar Valley u3a, speakers Tina and Ella ‘Being Blind’, 2pm Cheddar village hall.
Claverham Ladies’ Guild talk on the University of Bristol Botanic Gardens by Anne Brake, 2pm village hall BS49 4GG. Refreshments & charity sales table. Visitors welcome, £3. Details: 01934 838017.
Saturday September 7th
Chilcompton Flower Show. Details on Facebook: Chilcompton Gardeners. Banwell Gardening Club Horticultural Show 2.30pm village hall. Details: www.banwellgardeningclub.org.uk
Monday September 9th
Nailsea & District Local History Society: “Lighthouses of the Bristol Channel” with John Page. 7.45pm Green Lecture Room, Nailsea School. Visitors welcome £3. Details: 01275 463479.
Wednesday September 11th
Mendip Storytelling Circle: stories for a grown-up audience, 7.30-9.30pm Ston Easton Village Hall, BA3 4DA. Details: www.mendipstorycircle.com
Kilmersdon Gardeners talk by Sam Ross “Saving Seeds for Local Biodiversity” 7.30pm village hall, BA3 5TD. Visitors welcome £3. Free refreshments. www.kilmersdongardeners.org
Bowlore
MEDIEVAL displays will once again charm, excite and entertain visitors at the The Bishop’s Palace in Wells this August Bank Holiday with the return of the ever-popular Bowlore Re-enactment group who will set up camp in the palace grounds.
The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be bringing the summer holidays to a dramatic close over the August Bank Holiday weekend by joining forces with medieval re-enactors and combat specialists Bowlore Medieval.
Encamped in the stunning ruins of the Great Hall on August 24th, 25th and 26th, visitors will discover the historical reenactment group and medieval weapons experts who will be hosting lively displays throughout the day, with demonstrations and choreographed combat.
Longbows will be used as well as pallaxes, dane hammers, alchion and langmesser to name but a few!
The Black Dog, Bowlore’s weapons and armour tent, will also give visitors to the Palace the chance to get a glimpse of medieval life and members of the Bowlore troupe will be on hand throughout the day to share their expertise and answer questions.
Entrance to the Medieval Weekend is included with general admission to The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, there’s no additional charge for these events.
