Issue 12 - Volume 14 - Mendip Times

Mendip Times

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VOLUME 14 ISSUE 12

IN THIS ISSUE: • RUGBY • PROPERTY • P0INT-TO-POINT • MUSIC ON MENDIP • HOMES & INTERIORS

FREE

Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

MAY 2019

Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

THE Mendip Farmers’ Point to Point enjoyed glorious sunshine as it traditionally marked the start of spring.

Rachel Thompson reports on her day at the races and we have photos of the action.

Another Mendip tradition has changed with the times – Mendip Morris Men have now decided to admit women!

It’s also all change at a lot of local libraries – we look at how some of them are being affected, with volunteers taking up the reins.

Other volunteers have been busy collecting litter in Puxton, Dundry, Frome, Paulton and Godney.

It’s been a busy time musically in Frome, with a ukulele festival and busking competition. We have extra pages this month devoted to music and theatre.

Next month will mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day. It also marks the deaths on the same day of two pilots who crashed near Barrow Gurney after taking off from what was then RAF Lulsgate Bottom. There are now plans for a memorial on the site.

We hear how the RSPB is asking where wrens and long-tailed tits have gone after its latest garden survey, while Sue Gearing takes a walk around the Avalon Marshes, where the bitterns have been booming.

With all of our regular features and contributors, may we wish you a merry May! June 2019 deadline: Friday, 17th May 2019.

Published: Tuesday, 28th May 2019.

Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk Rachael Abbott rachael@mendiptimes.co.uk Publisher: Mendip Times Limited Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone:

01761 463888

or: email news@mendiptimes.co.uk or: letters@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: Precision Colour Printing, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Copyright of editorial content held by Mendip Times Ltd. and its contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the Publisher. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the publisher or its associates.

Front cover: Frome Busks – Clare Krige at the Valentine’s Lamp.

Photograph by Mark Adler. See page 103.

11

48

All aboard – Cary is official festival station

101

Bringing home the bacon – young farmers compete in Wedmore

98

Cheers! – a champagne moment as Chew Valley win promotion

Striking a chord – Frome’s busking competition Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE ..........10 Internet and Crossword ..............16 Food & Drink ...............................18 Arts & Antiques ...........................26 Business.........................................34 Charities........................................52 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......57 Walking Sue Gearing ....................58 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........60

Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......62 Property ........................................68 Health Dr Phil Hammond .............74 Caving Phil Hendy ........................78 Community ...................................80 Homes and Interiors ....................88 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE.....94 Sport ..............................................95 Music & Theatre ........................100 What’s On...................................106 MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 3

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MENDIP TIMES

What, women Morris Men?

AFTER 63 years of dancing in and around the North Somerset area as a men-only side, Mendip Morris Men have changed their name and their constitution and now welcome women into the fold.

Now known as Mendip Morris the club is open to all who want to go along and dance or play Morris music.

The change started last summer when some members started a series of Morris dancing taster sessions, which proved to be very popular, with new people joining all the time.

As the numbers in the Mendip Morris male-only side had remained static it was decided at a general meeting of the club to make these changes and welcome women.

As well as these new Wednesday night learners, the club says that other experienced Morris dancers are seeking to join as there are no other mixed Sides in the area.

New member Julie Palmer, a very experienced Morris dancer said: “It is so wonderful that I can dance with my husband again. Since moving down from Nottingham we had to join single gender sides as there were no mixed Cotswold Morris groups in our area – well done Mendip!”

Katie Palmer Heathman, wife of Richard who has been a Mendip Morris member for many years, said: “I grew up watching Mendip every week from the age of one when my parents started following the side and always wanted to be a Morris dancer.

“After many years of dancing, it's wonderful to finally be part of the side where my love for Morris began. They are a great bunch and so I was the first woman to apply to join as soon as I heard.”

Practice evening is every Monday between October and May, 8pm Mondays in the Congresbury Methodist Church Hall.

During the summer they dance out most Thursday evenings and some weekends.

Taster sessions are held every other Wednesday evening, 7.30pm in Congresbury Memorial Hall for those new to Morris or wanting to try it out.

Katie Palmer Heathman leads Mendip Morris with her husband Richard at the Buxton Day of Dance

Details: http://mendipmorris.org.uk or email MendipMorris@gmail.com

Building confidence as “learning café” reopens

NEWS

Debbie and James (second and third from right) with some of the students who help to run the café

A CAFÉ staffed by students with a range of special educational needs has reopened next to the Royal Bath and West Showground near Shepton Mallet.

The Greenfield Café – part of the Mendip School – is affiliated to the sister outlet Longfellows Café at Fosse Way School at Westfield, near Radstock.

Staff hope working in the café will lead to the students – mostly post-16 – achieving food hygiene certificates and finding full-time employment in the catering and hospitality sectors.

Debbie Lockyer, who runs Longfellows Café as well as overseeing the Greenfield Café, said: “Just seeing one of our students gaining a job would be wonderful; but they all have potential.”

James Honess, a former chef turned teacher, who manages the Greenfield Café, added: “Working here gives the students a taste of employment; they have to take on board things like time-keeping, working as a team and real-world skills.”

Members of the public are welcome to visit the café

Students held a fundraising car wash to help towards the costs of sending two of them – including Jack (centre) – on a sailing expedition called The Wettest Classroom, organised by the Bristol-based Venturers’ Academy

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 5

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MENDIP TIMES

RSPB survey results

THE latest results from the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch have revealed a mixed picture for the UK’s garden birdlife with 15 of the top 20 species returning fewer sightings in gardens across the country than in 2018.

It revealed the house sparrow held on to its number one spot whilst there was a decrease in garden sightings of wrens and long-tailed tits, two of the smallest species to visit our gardens.

Long-tailed tits decreased by more than 27% and wrens by 17% in 2019 after being counted in particularly large number in 2018. It says populations of both species may have been affected by last year’s “Beast from the East” as small birds are more susceptible to spells of cold weather.

Tony Whitehead, spokesman for the RSPB in Somerset said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone in Somerset who took part in our 2019 Big Garden Birdwatch.

By donating an hour for nature, you have provided invaluable data about the health of the feathered friends that make living in Somerset so wonderful.

“In Somerset the house sparrow was the most numerous bird, with just over four per garden. And the blackbird was the bird seen most in gardens.”

Species Mean 2019 Rank 2019 % Gardens 2019 House sparrow 4.6 1 67.4 Starling 3.0 2 40.0 Blue tit 2.7 3 79.5 Goldfinch 2.1 4 39.7 Blackbird 2.1 5 87.6 Woodpigeon 1.9 6 74.4 Great tit 1.6 7 61.1 Chaffinch 1.5 8 44.5 Robin 1.3 9 82.2 Long-tailed tit 1.3 10 34.3 He said: “With such fantastic results it just goes to show that all of the incredible effort people in Somerset are doing to give nature a home in their own gardens, is paying off.

Hopefully these results will encourage even more people to do their bit for Somerset’s wildlife.”

Protecting our countryside

THE Campaign to Protect Rural England estimates that one million new homes could be built on derelict or vacant land in towns and cities.

In a new report, it says that using “brownfield” sites which are ready and waiting to be redeveloped would not only help to transform run-down areas, and provide more homes, but also prevent the unnecessary loss of precious countryside and green spaces for housing.

In Somerset it says there are 260 hectares of brownfield land available, which could be enough for over 6,300 homes, mostly in areas where there are existing services, amenities and infrastructure.

In Mendip it reckons there are 26 sites which could accommodate 732 houses; in Sedgmoor 39 for 661 houses; and South Somerset 40 sites with potential for 965 homes.

Chris Lewis, CPRE Somerset chair, said: “This report shows that there are pockets of brownfield land in our larger towns and even in our villages that are still being overlooked by developers.

Even in a rural county like Somerset, there is huge potential to make more of our brownfield land.

“It is unacceptable that we continue to allow large-scale housing development to tear up our green fields and dominate our village communities while brownfield sites lie unused, often in prime locations.

“Somerset needs new homes and we should make better use of our brownfield sites to deliver good quality housing and vibrant communities whilst protecting our beautiful countryside.”

In order to make best use of suitable brownfield land, CPRE is urging the government to introduce a genuine “brownfield first” policy, which ensures that suitable previously developed or underused land is prioritised for redevelopment over green spaces and countryside.

Details: www.cpresomerset.org.uk

We can pick for miles and miles and miles

FIVE Mendip quarry companies teamed up for the second year running to clear litter and larger items such as abandoned mattresses, sofas and microwaves from almost 15 miles of public highway around their sites.

The project was coordinated by Stoke St Michael-based John Wainwright and Company Ltd, which organised traffic management and supplied supervisors over five days of work.

Other companies involved – all members of the Mendip Quarry Producers, which funded the litter pick – were Aggregate Industries, Hanson, Tarmac, and Morris & Perry. Mendip District Council and iD Verde also supported the litter pick for the second year running.

Two large skips were filled with litter collected throughout the week. Peter Barkwill, Wainwright’s Chief Executive, said: “Littering is an issue that I feel very strongly about. Our beautiful landscape is blighted by litter strewn among hedgerows and in verges. By clearing it, we’re improving the situation for everyone, and making a tangible difference to our surroundings.”

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A sign of the need for the litter picks?

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Golden gift for school’s garden project

PUPILS at St Aldhelm’s primary school in Doulting wielded spades to help to plant a maple tree commemorating the 50th anniversary of the village’s annual produce and handicraft show.

Members of the show committee – including June Stott, one of the founders – attended the ceremony. This year’s show takes place on Saturday, August 24th.

By coincidence, this year also marks the 40th anniversary of the opening of the school on its current site.

The planting ceremony at St Aldhelm’s School

June Stott and Kayla, aged ten, by the maple tree

A trowel was easier to use for some of the younger pupils

The Great Dundry clean-up!

ENVIRONMENT

Head teacher Pippa Cohen lends a hand

INSPIRED by the Great British Spring Clean 2019, the Dundry Litter Busters held their inaugural litter picking event on April 7th.

A group of 26 volunteers from Dundry and East Dundry armed themselves with hi-vis tabards, litter pickers, gloves and black bags and set off on a mission to clean up several roads in and around Dundry.

The area covered included Dundry Lane, West Dundry Lane, Highridge Road, Hill Road and part of Oxleaze Lane and in an hour and a half more than 40 bags of litter as well as an array of more unusual objects were collected.

All are welcome on future litter picking days, which will be on Sundays, May 19th and June 23rd.

Details: dundrylitterbusters@gmail.com

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 7

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MENDIP TIMES

ENVIRONMENT

Food forest is just the start

A FIELD on the edge of Shepton Mallet has become the site of a new community initiative to encourage people to get out into the countryside for their health and wellbeing.

A total of 114 fruit trees and shrubs were planted in a single day on the two-thirds-of-an-acre site on the Old Wells Road and, once productive, everyone will be welcome to enjoy the fruits of the volunteers’ labours for free.

Organised by the Fruit Forest Project – a community interest company which could soon become a charity – the Shepton Mallet site joins four others in Frome and one in Bristol.

The project leaders – all based in Shepton Mallet – are now fundraising to build an education and wellbeing centre for the new site.

Toby Daniels, from the project, said: “We’re hoping to tackle issues such as social isolation and habitat loss by

Paula Jordan (left) and Wendy Madden helped to plant the forest

The start of something fruitful – members of the project team

bringing people together to enjoy being in the countryside.

“We’re encouraging people in the area to become guardians of the site, to enjoy the space and to forage and picnic here.”

Lila Morris, who works for Somerset Wildlife Trust, joins in

This family – friends of the organisers – came from Bristol to help

For details, visit: https://www.facebook.com/foodforestproj/ or https://www.instagram.com/foodforestproj/

A buzz about bees in Oakhill

THE Church Rooms at Ashwick, near Oakhill, were a hive of activity when a new environmental group, Oakhill Buzz, was launched in a bid to increase suitable habitat for the struggling bee population.

Around 40 local people attended to pick up quantities of wild flower seed to plant in their gardens and local churches, as well as Ashwick Village Hall and Oakhill Church School, which have signed up to allocate areas for planting or to lend support in other ways.

The meeting also welcomed speakers Pippa Rayner from Somerset Wildlife Trust, Adele Avery from the Somerset Earth Science Centre and Lynda Gauthier, a local beekeeper.

Sally and Justin Sargent were inspired to start the group on Facebook after reading about the plight of bees, highlighted by experts such as Chris Packham. They came up with the idea of purchasing a bulk amount of seeds.

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Justin and Sally Sargent with daughter Ella packaging up the wildflower seeds

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Our Services Include: Commercial and Residential Property Wills and Probate Litigation and Personal Injury Criminal and Family Law Agricultural, Business and Commercial Employment Shepton Mallet: 57 High Street, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5AQ. Tel: 01749 330330

Thankfully we have now seen an end to the chilly weather. The sun is out and the air is warm.

The gardeners amongst us are able to get outside for a couple of hours in the evening. The Boat Race and the Grand National are behind us.

The football season will soon be over and the cricket season has started.

Wimbledon (sadly without Andy Murray) and the Glastonbury Festival (with Kylie Minogue) are only a matter of weeks away.

This year the Royal Bath and West Show will run from 29th May until 1st June. As usual, we shall be sponsoring the Power of the Past section which is located towards the southern end of the Showground.

You will see our logo proudly displayed on the Chief Steward’s caravan.

Again, as usual, various members of our team will be there. The show is a great day out and ticket prices are very reasonable so please do think about attending. Our tent is right next to the main ring and watching the traction engines and other old vehicles is great entertainment for people of all ages.

If you are at the show, then remember to visit our tent for a glass of wine and a chat. It is always nice to see clients and professional contacts and to meet new people.

We have been very lucky with the weather in the recent past and we we’re hoping that will continue.

Castle Cary: e Old Exchange, Church Street, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7EJ. Tel: 01963 350888

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

Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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MENDIP TIMES

In praise of the humble pig

THERE have been some great TV programmes on farming this year already, especially the ones on lambing, farrowing, calving etc. Watching those little piglets popping out so easily set me thinking about the history of the pig, an animal that was the lifeline of many a country family With MARY in days gone by.

JAMES MBE If you have ever read the book Larkrise

by Emma Thompson you will know where I am coming from.

In the late 1800s and into the 1900s hundreds of workers in the countryside were living in small cottages, working on farms on the big estates – and they were desperately poor.

Their food consisted mostly of that which they could grow, bread was a luxury and so was milk unless they were near to a dairy farm.

There was one thing which nearly all the cottages had and that was a pig. Purchased for just a few shillings when it was weaned, the pig lived in a sty at the bottom of the garden. It was fed on scraps from the house with easily gathered dandelions, grass and snails with perhaps bran or the rather expensive barley meal from a local miller.

The pig was a family favourite and there must have been tears when it was killed. The rituals of killing and cutting up would make a health and safety officer of today have apoplexy. But it was a wonderful food and lasted a family

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PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

(and friends) a month or two but it only happened once or twice a year of course.

There were no fridges and freezers but salt was an amazing preservative and so was smoking.

As for the breed of pig, they were probably Large Whites or Wessex Saddlebacks (black with a white band around the shoulder) or maybe a Large Black. There are many breeds of pigs and many crosses.

The Large White for instance has been crossed with the Duroc, Landrace and the Hampshire. Many of the old breeds are declining and The Rare Breeds Trust survival list shows the Landrace, the British Lop and the Large Black on the endangered species list.

My parents kept pigs, especially during the war years and when I married and went to a dairy farm we also kept them and so did a lot of dairy farms in the 70s and 80s, an extra source of income.

Now, after successive reduction and regulations, pig farming has moved to larger more specialised units who work closely with genetic suppliers, other farmers and processors to ensure the market gets exactly what it needs, a leaner pig.

This means big numbers of pigs brought in at 11 weeks of age, carefully fed and managed, and sold at 22 weeks for bacon. It is good to see that there are small individual holdings mostly rearing the older breeds, Gloucester Old Spots, Oxford Sandy and Black and Tamworth in organic/outdoor systems selling direct to the public.

Local agricultural shows, such as North Somerset on May 6th or the Royal Bath and West May 29th–June 1st, will have classes for pigs and possibly some sows with litters.

LATEST ADDITION TO OUR FLEET FOR THOSE TIGHT ACCESS AREAS: 14M UP WITH 7M TELESCOPIC OUTREACH

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Young farmers’ show

FARMING

Six months on!

Final touches

WEDMORE Young Farmers’ Club held their 85th annual livestock show at The George, in Wedmore, featuring cattle, sheep, pigs poultry, handicrafts and their annual prize-giving.

Admiring the sheep

Into the parade ring

From the previous success of advertising in the Mendip Times, Will Keel is keen to make you aware of other services he now offers.

Following a very productive autumn/winter clearing mainly brambles with the Robocut, Will is continually being asked if he offers a follow-up service of managing future re-growth.

With this in mind Will made the decision to purchase a quad bike sprayer to offer a supply and spray service allowing him to treat areas he has already cleared that are hard to access with larger machinery.

The use of the quad bike and sprayer also allows Will to offer a tailored package suitable for either rotational or spot treatment of grassland within the equine and agricultural industry. Other areas such as orchards, solar parks, vineyards, plantations, game crops and private land could also benefit from this service.

To make use of his quad bike, Will has purchased a heavy duty rotary topper that is able to cut a wide range of vegetation from topping light paddocks to working in extremely dense vegetation such as rushes, saplings, heather and bracken.

Will is not looking to take work away from his Robocut but wishes to widen the services he offers.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 11

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MENDIP TIMES

Preserving crafts and traditions

THIS year’s North Somerset Show on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6th will kick off a summer-long season of shows across the UK showcasing a range of traditional arts and crafts.

The ironwork section of the show was introduced around 16 years ago under the chief stewardship of the late Richard Jones.

The chief stewardship passed to Keith Mahoney in 2017. He will be officiating and competing at his third North Somerset Show.

He said: “We are trying to get people involved in wrought ironwork to make them more aware of the traditional blacksmithing skills – and keep the craft alive for future generations.

“Every year there are a series of competitions at the county shows – and North Somerset is the first in the season.”

As well as master craftsmen and experienced wrought ironworkers, there is a special award for apprentices and student blacksmiths.

The competition will run at the North Somerset and Dorchester County shows as well as at the Blacksmith Guild AGM, with the overall winner receiving the trophy and a £500 cash prize at the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths award lunch to be held in the City of London in October.

The North Somerset Show is one of the longest established highlights of the local countryside calendar.

See Lye Cross at the show

THE award-winning Lye Cross Farm Shop has a fantastic range of their Cheddars available to buy across the packed deli counters.

Their experienced butchers Adrian, John, Rob or Tom are on hand seven days a week with advice on cuts of meat (and those all-important cooking instructions!).

The Lye Cross Farm Shop is packed full of local products, bread, cakes, preserves, beer, cider and wine. It’s a must-see, one-stop shop for great quality produce at excellent prices.

The charming shop is set in the heart of the site surrounded by the dairy and packing facilities; the cheese is made and then aged just metres from the tills!

They have great offers for their loyalty card holders – see the website for more details and pick up a loyalty card in store. See them on stand FH12 at the North Somerset Show.

PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

www.lyecrossfarm.co.uk

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Reduce your energy costs

NORTH SOMERSET SHOW 2019

WITH many farms and businesses not having available funds to invest in solar, a power purchase agreement (PPA) will allow you to take advantage of a free solar PV system. You then purchase back the electricity generated on-site at a discounted rate; typically, around 20% cheaper than what you pay your current energy supplier.

Solarsense will fund, design, install and maintain a solar PV system designed specifically for your business and charge a reduced, index-linked rate for your electricity; all you have to do is agree to lease the airspace above your roof for 25 years, it’s that simple.

This not only helps you to reduce your carbon emissions but allows you to secure your power at a rate guaranteed to only increase with inflation for the next 25 years, protecting your business from rising energy costs. For farms in particular, a free solar PV system will give your business a better position when supplying to retailers that are campaigning for greener supply chains.

If your farm or business has already installed solar panels, Solarsense will buy back your current system for much more than it cost. They take the FIT payments and you retain the free electricity, creating a quick and easy way for your business to raise capital.

Details: For more information or to arrange your free, no obligation desktop survey, call 01275 461 800 or visit www.solarsense-uk.com

Design your garden

A GARDEN should be your sanctuary and a place that makes you feel happy from the inside out that is functional but also beautiful. A good garden design will stimulate your senses and create emotional responses like a great piece of music can.

It does this through good design, choice of materials and most of all planting. Add nature and wildlife into the mix, the birds, bees and butterflies and there is nothing greater in the world.

Horticolous Landscape & Garden Design provide clients with a garden design service tailored to their individual needs and see every design opportunity as unique.

They are very proud to be pre-registered members of the SGD, Society of Garden Designers, and are accredited members of the APL, Association of Professional Landscapers, the elite of their profession.

They believe a great, well designed garden will change your life, so employing a qualified garden designer really will make the difference between an average garden or a truly fabulous one.

Details: Lynn.Riches@Horticolous.co.uk or www.Horticolous.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 13

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MENDIP TIMES

Luxury hand-made ice cream – see them at the show CHEW Moo’s is a family-run farm situated on the Dundry Hills in Bristol. They are passionate about their Guernsey herd and produce a huge range of ice creams using the milk and cream they produce.

They also make mouth-

watering fruit ices that are created using the juiciest of fresh fruit with a little water and sugar – they are as creamy as their ice creams but totally dairy free.

All of the ice cream and fruit ices are hand-made in small batches using the finest ingredients, with only natural flavourings, hand-picking the strawberries and raspberries themselves when in season.

There are several walks to enjoy at the farm with wonderful views out across Bristol, animals to see and a custom-made ice cream parlour for cakes, ice cream and coffee. The Parfitt family who run the farm look forward to welcoming you.

See them on stand number FJ23 at the North Somerset Show on May 6th.

Three generations of farming knowledge

SITUATED in the Chew Valley on the outskirts of Bristol, Harry Curtis began farming and over three generations the family business became established.

Today H. Curtis & Sons specialise in the supply of quality new and used agricultural and ground care machinery.

They are proud to be main dealers for Merlo telehandlers, both in agriculture and construction, and have a strong network of franchises such as Pottinger, Claydon, Maschio, Vicon, Pichon, Portequip, Kioti, Baroness, Etesia, Echo and many more.

They carry an extensive stock of spare parts and have a fully-equipped workshop to provide support and back-up to their customers and their highly trained technicians are always on hand to provide service support in the field.

Being fully CFTS accredited offering thorough examination certificates on any make of telescopic handler, they are also one of UK’s 600 qualified national sprayer testing scheme examiners.

Details: 01761 490372 or email sales@hcurtis.co.uk

Agricultural & Horticultural Machinery Dealers

STANTON WICK FARM • PENSFORD • BRISTOL • BS39 4DB

Zero Turn Mowers

Shredders & Chippers

Landrollers

Mounted Equipment

Lawn Mowers

All Terrain Vehicles

Telescopic Handlers

Harrows & Aerators

Compact Tractors

sales@hcurtis.co.uk @hcurtis H. Curtis and Sons

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Telephone: 01761 490372 COME AND SEE US ON STAND NO AG10

Your main Kubota dealer for Somerset and South Gloucester Main Road A370, Hewish, Weston-super-Mare BS24 6SE

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Linger longer in the garden

NORTH SOMERSET SHOW 2019

EBDON Firewood Ltd and BBQ Firepits are a family-owned and family-run business, nestled at the foot of Crook Peak in Somerset.

Run jointly by Simon Ebdon and Vicky Abbott, they love what they do and are passionate about meeting customers and providing a great service. Having been trading for many years, they keep themselves busy selling firewood in the winter.

During the summer season they showcase their superior range of BBQ fire pits, smokers and accessories at agricultural and country shows in the South West.

Ebdon have a wide range of garden accessories for easy living, including fire pits, chimeneas and smokers.

They are fully committed to being as environmentally friendly as they possibly can and have sourced a UKWAS certified company to supply them with wood that they season themselves. It is barn dried for 12-18 months so that when it reaches you, it is ready to burn.

Their logs are cut to eight-ten inches to fit most fires and stoves and they will deliver within a 20-mile radius.

Ebdon’s fireside range is hand-forged in Scotland. These beautifully designed log baskets, rings and companion sets will suit any type of interior décor, traditional or contemporary.

Details: Simon Ebdon and Vicky Abbott 01934 734 662 07775 737 770 ebdonfirewood@icloud.com www.ebdonfirewood.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 15

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INTERNET

Tip for securing your mobile phone

WE’VE all heard of breaches of security on phones and websites, so the best way to avoid any trouble is to be cautious about what you do in the first place. Here are a few tips.

Be wary of public WiFi hotspots Although hotspots in cafes etc. can be very useful, you need to be aware that you are opening up your phone/tablet to any hacker nearby. Do not access any sensitive information through public WiFi, such as logging into your bank or checking sensitive work emails. It is far more secure to use your 3G or 4G mobile network, or to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network, a service provided by many internet companies including some of the major virus protection companies).

Do not jailbreak or root your device A jailbreak sounds a bit dramatic, but basically means don’t try to bypass your app store. Only download apps through your app store, which gives you Apple or Google protection. The most common way to get a virus on your phone is through a rogue virus downloaded outside of your app store. Your chances of downloading a malicious app are far lower if you stick to the official app stores.

Update your operating system Cyber criminals exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems to gain access to outdated smartphones. Be sure to install updates to your software as soon as a new version is released, to minimise this risk. Shows as a number by your Settings.

Review your access permission Often when consumers download new apps they don't take the time to read the terms & conditions, or consider what data they are allowing the app to access.

In some cases, it may be useful to allow an app to access your location, such as a transport or weather app. But does the app need to know your location even when you're not using it? Review your app permissions in your privacy settings, and disable any consents that don't seem essential. Most would only need access when the app is being used.

Encrypt your device Encrypting your phone will scramble all files so that only you have access to them. You'll need to enter a PIN or password to decrypt your phone every time you want to use it. This can have some disadvantages, but at the very least, put a password, pin or finger-print security on your phone. Just go to Settings (usually looks like a cog) and on iPhone it’s under your user name. On android, it’s usually under the “Personal” header.

Submitted by IT for the Terrified : Cheddar Village Hall, Church St, Cheddar BS27 3RF 01934 741751 (usually goes to answer phone) www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com I.T. for the Terrified – for all your computer training needs. A skillsharing, community project.

Run by a Committee – Staffed by Volunteers Registered Charity No. 1130308 : Company No. 06779600 This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. For more in depth information, please contact us.

We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you. We can cover a range of subjects – including absolute basics; photo management; shopping online; emailing; Word processing, spreadsheets; basic web design; etc. on a range of devices, including Windows: Macs: Tablets: iPads: smartphones.

Or if you would like to share basic skills with others, please get in touch

PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 9 Call to mind (5) 10 315 degrees (5,4) 11 Yarns (4,5) 12 Mick ---, Time Team Professor who died at Winscombe (5) 13 Ancient writing material (7) 15 Joint committee leader (25) 16 Gorge plant named after it (7,8) 18 Insignia (7) 20 Toxic metal found in some pigments and rechargeable batteries (7) 22 Completely (5) 23 Bonding compounds (9) 25 Round all round (9) 26 Way past the Mendips (5)

DOWN 1 Lampooned (4,2) 2 What soufflÈs often do (8) 3 Rode resident Constance --, gaoled for murdering her half-brother (4) 4 Envelope contents (10) 5 Career golfers (4) 6 What 3 Down was before conviction (3,7) 7 Historical ladies' collar (6) 8 Patron saint of Wells Cathedral (2,6) 14 Hill fort south of Frome (10) 15 Temple site near Batcombe (6,4) 16 Least expensive (8) 17 Plough back the profits (8) 19 Accepted as true (6) 21 Bivalve mollusc (6) 23 Mischievous (4) 24 Couch (4)

The Mendip Times Scribble Pad

This month’s solution can be found on page 113

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MENDIP TIMES

The green shoots of spring

Youth and beauty are everywhere in May. Little new broad beans, bright green and delicately With JUNE flavoured; fresh MACFARLANE growth, not least in the herb garden where mint, parsley, sage and rosemary are putting on a spurt; and strawberries as the first of our local crop start to appear. It’s a taste of things to come.

BROAD BEANS ON TOAST INGREDIENTS

(serves two) 250g broad beans, podded weight 180g cherry tomatoes, halved 6 small sage leaves, chopped 2 tbsp olive oil 2 thick slices sourdough bread 160g burrata or mozzarella

Make this now, while the beans are small and tender. Double podding them takes no time and results in a much brighter dish. The toast soaks up the flavours deliciously!

METHOD Simmer the broad beans in salted water until tender. Refresh in cold water. Drain. Slip the beans from their skins and reserve. Whizz the tomatoes and sage in a processor until slushy.

Stir in the oil. Toast the bread. Tear the burrata into pieces. Spread the tomato mixture on the toast, top with the burrata and the beans and more tomato. Season. Trickle olive oil over and serve.

Beans on toast – a taste of spring

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

May the sauce be with you

BAKED SALMON AND SALSA VERDE

Salsa verde – green sauce – is a wonderful thing to make when herbs are fresh, young and plentiful. You can use almost any seasonal herbs, but parsley is a must. It is brilliant with meat, as a dressing for new potatoes, or as here with salmon. It will keep in the fridge for a few days.

INGREDIENTS

(serves four) 1 small shallot, finely chopped 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 500g salmon fillet 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp white wine 2 anchovy fillets, drained Large handful parsley leaves Large handful basil leaves 2 tbsp capers, drained 120ml good olive oil

METHOD Preheat the oven to 180°C. Soak the shallot in the vinegar in a small nonmetallic bowl for 45 mins. Oil some tinfoil and place the salmon on it, skin side down, on a baking tray. Splash over some white wine. Wrap securely.

Bake in the oven for about 20 mins. Remove.

Mash the anchovies in a mortar, add the herbs and capers and pound into the anchovies, stir in the shallots with a little of the vinegar, add olive oil to the consistency you prefer. Taste for seasoning. Serve the salmon with the salsa verde, a few green leaves and maybe some new potatoes.

STRAWBERRY MILLE FEUILLES INGREDIENTS

(serves six) 1 sheet puff pastry 50g icing sugar 100g fresh custard 150g double cream 1 tsp vanilla extract 400g strawberries, sliced

Local strawberries are a treat and the first ones are to be cherished. No better way to show them off than with this dessert.

Bought puff pastry works just fine, try to find all-butter.

METHOD Pre-heat oven to 200°C. Line a large baking sheet with parchment. Unroll the pastry in its wrapper. Cut vertically into three equal strips. Cut strips horizontally into six. Space out on the baking sheet. Prick with a fork. Dust with icing sugar. Cover with another sheet of parchment and sit a second baking sheet on top. Bake for 20 mins until pastry is golden and crisp.

Cool on a wire rack.

Whisk custard, cream and vanilla together until thick. Use a piping bag to make a layer of cream and top with strawberries. Repeat, dusting final pastry rectangle with icing sugar. Take a bow!

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What’s new from

Myrtle Farm

FOOD & DRINK

A round-up of events from Thatchers Cider in Sandford

Planting new trees for the future

WE’VE been busy planting new trees out in our orchards during March and April. Over 5,000 young trees are now freshly in the ground. That includes over 1,550 of our favourite Somerset Redstreak that were planted in just one day in our Christon orchard. Our orchards are part of who we are, so everyone who works at Myrtle farm gets the chance to help out at planting time – at Christon it was members of our kegging team who lent a valuable hand.

Here to make a difference

THE Thatchers Foundation is holding a fundraising Festival of Cider and Wine on Saturday 18 May. It’s being held at Winscombe Cricket Club between 5pm and 11pm. Tickets cost £15 and are available from Farrons Estate Agents and The Wine Shop in Winscombe, The Railway Inn, Thatchers Cider Shop and our Reception at Myrtle Farm. We’d love you to join us and help make a difference for community and charitable activities in Somerset.

STOP PRESS:

This year the Railway Inn is celebrating its birthday on Saturday, July 27th with live music and a bouncy castle for the younger generation. Save the date!

At Thatchers we’re always thinking about the future. Our new 100 Tree Trial is a project our orchard team is really excited about, planting over 40 acres of apple trees with 90 different varieties of apple that we haven’t used in our cidermaking before. Either the trees have done well in our 458 Exhibition Orchard, or they have an excellent reputation for cidermaking. This bodes well for tasty new ciders in the future!

Celebrating Somerset Day at The Railway Inn

WE’LL be celebrating Somerset Day at The Railway Inn on Saturday 11th May, so please come along and join us.

There’ll be a Cheese and Cider Tasting, we’ll be selling home-made cakes in aid of the St Margaret’s Hospice Great Somerset Tea Party, and the Mangled Wurzels and Mendip Morris will be keeping us truly entertained. And back by popular demand, we’ll have tractors old and new on display in the pub garden. The fun starts at midday through til 6pm.

www.thatcherscider.co.uk • Don’t forget you can also follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Thatchers Cider, Myrtle Farm, Sandford, Somerset, BS25 5RA

MT ENDIP • MAY 2017 2019 • PAGE 19 MENDIP IMES T • IMES NOVEMBER

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MENDIP TIMES

(Photos courtesy of Orbit Photography)

Food festival for Cary

A NEW free, locally-focused food and drink festival arrives in Castle Cary with eat:Castle Cary on Saturday, May 4th.

Running from 9am to 5pm, it will feature more than 70 local producers including farmers' market favourites like ales, cheese, pies and bread alongside brand new flavours and a brilliant range of street food.

Sarah Milner Simonds, one half of the multi award-winning organising team, said: "This is our first event in Castle Cary and we have been bowled over by the warm welcome we have received so far. We will have lots of gluten free, vegan and alcohol-free choices as well as some award-winning producers and new product launches."

Co-organiser Bev Milner Simonds added: "We hope people will make a full day of it and we have lots planned throughout the day. In the Market House is the cook school; running from 10.30am12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm where A cookery school like this one will be held in the Market House we are

PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Street food will delight visitors, say organisers

celebrating the flavours of Italy with a hands-on session making egg frittata and pesto. Next door to the cook school is Ben Forte's Kamado BBQ demos; Ben is an international BBQ guru and he will be sharing his hints, tips and skills all day.

“Nearby there is a DJ and face painter and up in Bailey Hill Punch & Judy shows. Down by the Horsepond the restoration team will be raising funds for their project alongside our drumming workshops."

The organising team have high sustainability standards and anyone cycling into the festival will get a free saddle mac or rucksack cover. They are urging anyone who can to walk, cycle or ride to the festival. The organisers are continuing their campaign to be single-use plastic free and are urging people to bring their own bags.

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GARDEN FOOD

Stick with rhubarb

NOW is the time for rhubarb and that makes me happy because it is one of my all-time favourite flavours. For centuries however, rhubarb was not considered a food, but a medicine.

So highly valued was the root for digestive complaints, and so expensive With JAKE was it to transport from Asia to Europe, WHITSON that at a certain time rhubarb root was more expensive than cinnamon, opium and saffron.

This led to efforts to cultivate it in Europe, but it wasn't until the early 1800s, when sugar became affordable, that anyone thought about utilising the stems as a foodstuff.

So well does it grow in cooler climates and so rapidly and thoroughly did it become an integral flavour of Northern Europe that it's hard to imagine that just a couple of hundred years ago nobody would have thought of the stems as the valuable bit of a rhubarb plant.

As well as the more usual crumbles and puddings, I really enjoy the flavour of rhubarb in drinks. For the most part, for either desserts or drinks I start the same way, chopping the rhubarb into 1cm pieces and then stewing gently with a little orange juice and sugar.

Often I'll add a little ginger vanilla too. Once just soft, the solids can be used for crumbles or other desserts and some of the syrup that runs out can be set aside for drinks.

For a pie or a crumble I often like to add just a touch of flour or cornflour to make a slightly thicker sauce, which then stops the sauce making the pastry or topping soggy.

And the un-thickened syrup makes a delicious drink on its own mixed with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon if you have it.

And in the evening a shot of rhubarb syrup in a gin and tonic gives a delightful twist on the classic.

Jacob Whitson is a chef, food writer and smallholder.

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

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

Is it worth it?

OH this is a tricky one. When I’m running my regular springtime wild food foraging courses, I always have many nuggets of advice, pearls of wisdom, and insider info won from experience to pass on to the group.

One of my favourite soap box moments is when I begin to talk about edible umbellifers With ADRIAN such as cow parsley, hogweed, Alexanders, BOOTS wild carrot etc.

But of course I then start to warn of the special risks associated with the umbellifer family of plants as the good ones look like the bad ones. I like to describe the blistering of skin and photosensitization one can encounter after contact with giant hogweed.

Then of course there is the infamous hemlock water dropwort which despatched a small heard of livestock that had eaten the roots, known as deadman’s fingers for good reason. Ironically they look quite similar to carrots albeit much lighter in colour.

There is even a story of a group of lads making a curry out of the roots thinking they were actually carrots, or was it parsnips... either way I believe they all survived (as very little was used) but only after much stomach pumping and several days in ER. I hope I haven’t put you off at this point? Don’t forget the most poisonous one of them all and the favourite of Machiavellian baddies is the plant hemlock itself, distilled into a deadly poison which was used to kill off the Greek philosopher Socates.

I did say this was a tricky one! So what umbellifers can you eat? Let’s look at plain old common hogweed.

Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) has broad, hairy pinnate leaves (attached either side of the leaf stem) and a hollow hairy stem, large umbels (umbrella like flowers), off-white in colour with unequal petals. It can grow up to two metres in height.

It’s an extremely common biennial herb, flowering May through to October found widely throughout Britain in woods and along hedgerows, verges and footpaths. Do not gather near watercourses as it is easily confused with some of its more deadly relatives (see above).

Only select the very young shoots before it is in full leaf.

Gently steamed until tender, topped with a knob of butter and seasoned to taste, they have an interesting flavour reminiscent of asparagus.

Hwever, you have to ask yourself is it worth it? Unless you really know what you are doing my final tiny morsel of advice is to leave all umbellifers well alone and maybe take up growing actual asparagus instead.

So on that upbeat note have a great springtime, enjoy nature at its best and most of all be safe in the countryside!

Adrian Boots is a Landscape Ecologist, Wild Food Forager and Adventure Activity provider. You can visit his website: www.gowildactivities.co.uk to learn more about wild food foraging and activities you can do with him on the Mendip Hills.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 21

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MENDIP TIMES

ME OF FEATHERS U L P

DUCK RACE SATURDAY 13th JULY

The Churchill Inn Bristol Road Langford BS25 5NL 01934 852757 the churchillinn.co.uk

A new look A new menu Same warm welcome

Starting at 5pm. Great family fun evening with a local band playing, best dressed duck competition, duck racing, BBQ, pig roast, face painting, ice cream stall, 3 bars open. Come and get your ducks from the Plume, decorate at home or at the Plume from 5pm and enter them before 6pm.

Rickford, Somerset BS40 7AH

01761 462682

Russ and Bernie’s relaunched pub

Visit www.theplumeoffeathers.com

Come and join us for some summer fun

Stanton Drew

May 25th Rum and Reggae festival from 4pm June 21st Summer solstice with Morris dancers in the evening July 13th Live music with Ross Kirk from 8pm July 27th Gin Fair with live music from 4pm

01275 332230

info@thedruidsarms.co.uk www.thedruidsarms.co.uk

The Druids Arms Bristol BS39 4EJ PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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Moondance expands into Chewton Mendip MOONDANCE now has a second café in Chewton Mendip, alongside owner Louise McMillan’s existing café in Chew Magna.

She describes her business as a café, deli and catering business and both have cards and gifts. Chewton Mendip is also the village shop, stocking groceries, vegetables and other everyday essentials.

Their catering service promises great food and service, catering for weddings, celebrations, events and private dining, bringing the food to you and your venue as well as there being the option to hire both conveniently located cafes as a venue.

The cafes’ reputation for a tasty and diverse menu is well established with its loyal customer base enjoying everything from sweet potato, feta and olive salad to fresh frittatas and tartlets every lunchtime.

Hobbs house bread can be ordered, along with savouries, sweet treats and celebration cakes.

Yet fewer people are aware of the event catering that Moondance provides. But those who have had the pleasure of the service are full of praise. TripAdvisor is filled with glowing reviews including this one from Jamie and Emma Flint following their private dining birthday party: “We had exceptional food with a tailored menu and the professional service was excellent. I would highly recommend it if you were hosting a party.”

The additional large premises in Chewton Mendip mean

C A F E

•

D E L I

FOOD & DRINK

Louise and her team can expand their successful catering service.

Chewton Mendip has always been popular with cyclists who make a beeline for the café and its tasty snacks and drinks, as well as locals and passers-by.

One customer said: “It’s a lovely place to come for homemade food in such pleasant surroundings. Having a village shop is so important.”

Moondance has also launched a breakfast club – buy nine breakfasts and get the tenth free!

•

C AT E R I N G

NOW OPEN IN CHEWTON MENDIP AND CHEW MAGNA High Street • Chewton Mendip • BA3 4LJ 01761 240820 • moondancecafe.co.uk Also at: 5 South Parade • Chew Magna BS40 8SH MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 23

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MENDIP TIMES

FOOD & DRINK

New food scheme to help the elderly and isolated A £25,000 appeal to provide a new service to the elderly and isolated in the Mendip area has been launched by Somerset Local Food.

The online local food shopping organisation, a not-for-profit enterprise based in Glastonbury, wants to help people who might not have access to the internet and struggle to travel to go shopping.

Funds raised by a community share offer will pay for a dedicated telephone answering service, updates to the website to allow orders to be inputted on behalf of customers and a small delivery van with specially-trained driver who can recognise when a customer is struggling and liaise with other services if needed.

Phil Sharratt, SLF chief executive, said: “We are recognising from some of our existing customers that the elderly in rural communities are struggling to remain living in their own homes because they cannot easily get the groceries they need.

The team at Somerset Local Food

We have seen village shops closing which, combined with reduced bus services, means that some people who cannot access the internet are really struggling. We would like to set-up a dedicated grocery shopping and delivery service to help the elders in our

community, and that means taking a step back in time.”

Somerset Local Food was launched in 2002. In the past 12 months it has undergone a transformation to emphasise its role in helping to build a local food network across the county.

For details, visit: http://somersetlocalfood.co.uk

SPRING IS IN THE AIR AND WE’RE CELEBRATING OUR 2ND BIRTHDAY ON THE BEAUTIFUL BANKS OF

CHEW VALLEY LAKE

We’d like to once again say a MASSIVE thank you to all our customers and all your support

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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Millfield has rhythm IF your child is aged 18 months–six years and would like to explore Millfield Pre-Prep, book a place now on their Rhythm & Rhyme open morning on Monday May 20th, 10.30am-12.00pm.

Based around the magical world of music, this melodious morning will include exciting and entertaining percussion, singing and violin workshops.

The creative arts are fundamental to the early learning experience.

Millfield Pre-Prep have specialist music teachers, children enjoy singing and performing in concerts and productions throughout the year and can sign up for music lessons from Year 1.

Their pupils frequently engage in hands-on problem solving, using analytical thinking and interactive resources to aid learning. At Millfield Pre-Prep, they encourage a love of learning and aim to inspire each child

to make the most of their potential.

They utilise a dynamic topic-based, child-led curriculum, small class sizes and fantastic indoor and outdoor learning spaces and activities.

Frequent trips, an on-site Forest School, walled and sensory gardens, apple orchards and a soft play area give children the space and freedom to

EDUCATION

let their imaginations run wild.

Their all-round education ensures children get the individual care they need, and they offer over 20 free afterschool activities (including pottery, computer skills and trampolining) or, an Early Birds and Late Club and a daily Minis toddler group during term time for ages one-three.

Details: Flora Coward 01458 837763 email coward.f@millfieldprep.com or visit millfieldschool.com/openmorning

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 25

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MENDIP TIMES

Spring is here – so get writing Young winners announced for literature festival prizes WELLS Festival of Literature has launched its 2019 international competitions for poetry, short stories and children’s books.

The Open Poetry judge will be award-winning poet Simon Armitage, Professor of Poetry at the University of Leeds and elected Professor of Poetry at the University of Oxford (2015-2019). He received the 2018 Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry.

The short story judge is Mark McCrum who began his career as a travel writer. He has now turned to crime - with The Festival Murders and Cruising to Murder.

In the Book for Children category, Somerset children’s author, Gill Lewis, will be selecting the winning entry whilst the festival welcomes back as judge of the young poets’ work, the poet, educator and performer, Miriam Nash who ran a helpful and entertaining session for young poet finalists in 2018.

This year’s festival takes place from October 18th to 26th.

The prize-giving and poetry reading at the festival on Sunday, October 20th will celebrate all the international talent on display.

The competition is now open; the closing date for entries is Sunday, June 30th. For details, visit: www.wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk

The prizegiving ceremony in Black Swan Arts

BLACK Swan Arts in Frome have announced the winners of their prestigious Young Open art competition. The winning entries are on show in the Long Gallery and Round Tower at Black Swan Arts until Saturday April 27th, alongside the judges’ final selection of 166 artworks from more than 400 entries.

Details: www.blackswanarts.org.uk or call 01373 473980

If you have any questions, find us on Facebook – Prowse Antiques and Interiors or call us on 01934 712453 or 07860 837 680

Studio open

CHEWTON Mendip sculptor Cathy Judge is opening her home/working studio/garden. This solo exhibition will run alongside North Somerset Arts from May 3rd-12th, 10am6pm.

Visitors will be able to see a large body of Cathy’s work including bronze and resin sculptures.

Details: www.cathyjudge.co.uk

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Clevedon Salerooms’ free jewellery valuation days draw crowds CLEVEDON Salerooms held two free jewellery valuation days on consecutive days, one in Clevedon, the other in Bristol in mid-April drawing a large number of visitors to each event.

With up to four valuers dealing with customers at any one time, the two days were well attended. Consignments for the June 13th Specialist Sale included a ladies stainless steel and gold YachtMaster wristwatch with original box that

will be estimated at £2,000-£3,000.

If you missed those two valuation dates they can assess all items from jewellery to fine art at their two free valuation days in May (see advert for dates).

The closing date for entries to the June 13th Quarterly Specialist Sale is May 14th. If you have items you are thinking of selling why not email images to info@csrauction.com for a free valuation.

Keith Shackleton (1923-2015) oil – ‘Arctic Terns’ sold at Clevedon Salerooms for £1,900

Heuer Autavia GMT sold at Clevedon Salerooms for £3,800

Every lot in every auction, illustrated and sold with live internet bidding Heuer Autavia GMT £3,800

19th Century Carrara marble figure £2,800

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE AnTiQuE VALuATiOn DAYS 13th & 14th May

9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary

Small crocodile skin suitcase £650

Antiques, Interiors, Collectables & Jewellery Sales 9th & 23rd May Sale starts at 10.30am On view day before 10am – 6.30pm

Pair of Bohemian lustre drop vases £920

Tel: 01934 830111

Quarterly Specialist Sale

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

On line catalogue available 1st June

Thursday 13th June at 10.30am Closing date for entries: 14th May

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 27

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MENDIP TIMES

Artists inspired by life behind bars

A GROUP of artists is coming together to create an exhibition inspired by the lives of people who served in and worked in Shepton Mallet prison.

Calling themselves B-Wing, after the section of the now-closed jail in which they will be based, the artists are now applying for funding to offer workshops to schoolchildren, disadvantaged groups and other sections of the community.

The six artists will be creating a multi-disciplinary exhibition, including sculpture, textiles, music and sound installations. The project is co-curated by Fiona Campbell – who lives at Cranmore – and Luminara Star featuring their work and selected artists/performers Lou Baker, Rosie Jackson, Lucy Large, and Scott Sandford, with invited one-off guest performances. There will be a community-led collaborative piece of work also.

The exhibition will coincide with this year’s Somerset Art Weeks, running from September 21st – October 6th.

Fiona – a sculptor who specializes in using found and recycled materials – is currently experiencing her own life behind bars with a residency and exhibition in the cells at Trowbridge Town Hall.

Some of the artists on a tour of B-Wing

Signs of the prison regime remain today

The artists will draw inspiration from the empty prison

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

The project logo

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Ever increasing numbers of lots sold at the Mendip Auction Rooms WITH the introduction of two-day antique sales, the team at the Mendip Auction Rooms handled almost 2,000 lots in April. The auction rooms continue to expand but are firmly focussed on delivering a friendly and professional service to sellers and buyers alike.

Two sales of Victorian and Later Effects are staged each month with a wide range of items sold including household effects and items from house clearances. There is always scope to find a bargain or items to furnish a home at reasonable cost so do visit on viewing days and have a rummage to see what you can find.

The monthly two-day sale of Antiques and Collectables provides an opportunity to buy traditional items of value including jewellery, silver, collectables, pictures, furniture, militaria and garden items. Collectables and pictures are sold on the Friday with furniture, silver and jewellery sold on the Saturday. Selling

through the internet is key to a successful antiques sale and it is possible to buy through the-saleroom.com on both days.

At their April Antiques sale, the team saw a good attendance in the auction room on both days but there was also a good number of internet and telephone buyers. Items selling to advantage included an interesting Chinese belt composed of fourteen 1899 one dollar coins that sold to a buyer in the room for £600 having fought off internet and telephone bidders.

A group of Royal Flying Corps medals sold for £1,200; a Persian style rug £1,150; a Wedgwood dinner service

ARTS & ANTIQUES

£800 and a pair of bronze figures of stags £420. An excellent entry of jewellery attracted keen buyers and sold to advantage.

Next sales will be the two-day sale of Antiques and Collectables on May 3rd and 4th. Viewing takes place on May 2nd, 10am-7pm.

The team at the Mendip Auction Rooms aim to make selling and buying at auction straight-forward and great fun.

The auction rooms are open from 10am until 5pm Monday to Friday and the valuers are happy to visit you at home free of charge to provide valuation and selling advice. The auction rooms can be contacted on 01749 840770.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 29

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MENDIP TIMES

What could your jewellery be worth?

WHO doesn’t love jewellery? Gareth Wasp our auctioneer and valuer certainly does and he will be holding a free specialist jewellery valuation morning at our Wells office on Tuesday, July 16th.

Gareth is rather good at finding jewellery, last year he came across a Cartier four carat diamond ring which sold for £42,000 and an Art Deco sapphire and diamond ring that sold for £28,000; these two rings were found in amongst a collection of costume jewellery bound for a charity shop.

Jewellery is very popular, with modern pieces achieving strong prices as well as good Victorian jewellery selling to many American collectors. Having several hundred online bidders across the globe ensures your items are achieving the highest possible price.

Gareth will be at the Wells office, in Broad Street, from 9am to 1pm and would love to view and value any items of jewellery you have; no appointment is necessary just pop along on the day.

The next Specialist Antiques and Collectables Sale will be held on Wednesday, June 5th and the closing date for entries for this sale is Wednesday, May 22nd. In the specialist jewellery section of the sale is a wonderful collection of jewellery from a deceased estate. Included will be a stunning five stone diamond ring, a pair of opal doublet and diamond cluster earrings, a ladies’ gold and diamond dress watch and a rose gold fancy link gate bracelet in a fitted case.

Gareth will also be holding a free antiques valuation

ARTS & ANTIQUES

morning at the Cooper and Tanner Shepton Mallet office – in the High Street – on Tuesday, May 21st from 9am to 1pm.

Gareth is always happy to visit you at home if you have anything you would like him to look at, please call the office on 01373 852419 to book.

A light fancy yellow & white diamond cluster ring, sold £3,200

COOPER AND TANNER SALE ROOMS YOUR LOCAL JEWELLERY SPECIALIST

18ct white gold Art Deco style sapphire & diamond ring.

Sold £1,300

A Mappin and Webb diamond set cocktail watch. Sold £330

Edwardian pink tourmaline & seed pearl bracelet. Sold £400

SALE ROOMS Gareth Wasp Telephone 01373 852419 The Agricultural Centre, Standerwick, Frome BA11 2QB gareth.wasp@cooperandtanner.co.uk PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

18ct white gold emerald & diamond ring. Sold £600

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Designed with consideration, installed with care

Adam & Louise welcome you to their new relocated showroom in the village of Winscombe. ‘We have always insisted upon quality brands and service at idesign. We are excited to add Samsung integrated appliances to our portfolio’.

36 Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1AG www.idesigninteriors.co.uk

01934 844144

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MENDIP TIMES

Beckery village reveals its charms

HUNDREDS of visitors seized the chance to explore life in the 21st Century on the former Morlands factory site between Glastonbury and Street during an open day event.

Renamed Beckery Village, the industrial landscape is home to a range of community-based enterprises and projects.

Amongst them is Bridie’s Yard, an old cow shed and farm yard, housing an organic community food shop, community space and creative art studios. The Red Brick Building is run by a Community Benefit Society, hosting a bar, events, exhibitions, workshops, community events, and youth activities, whilst the so-called ZigZag building – a former leather factory – is home to an off-grid project exploring sustainable living.

A pop-up craft and collectables market attracted many visitors

Super furry animals: Rosie Rose (second right) makes the felt creatures from scratch

Rachel Inman, outreach worker with the Elim Connect Centre in Wells, promoting its ground-breaking Roots Connections horticulture project helping the homeless PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

EVENTS

Kate Burton and Gizmo relax in the events space in the Red Brick Building

Seed of Hope runs a therapeutic garden to help people with mental health problems. They’re currently recycling waste plastic to create “ecobricks” from bottles

Lazy Daze on stage

Matt tries out the acoustics in the ZigZag Building

Ceramistic Donna Norton on her market stall

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RH

Windows

THE CHEW VALLEY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED WINDOW COMPANY WITH A REPUTATION BUILT ON QUALITY AND SERVICE FOR CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS AND DOORS IN HARDWOOD OR UPVC

HARDWOOD JOINERY SPECIALISTS www.rhwindowsltd.co.uk

Telephone: 01761 452171 Fax: 01761 453342

TOPSOIL AND STONE SUPPLIES Dry high quality screened or unscreened Topsoil.

Recycled aggregates and quarry stone supplies, road planings and building stone.

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

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

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

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

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

Tel: 0800 097 8611

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

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

Business section.qxp_Layout 1 18/04/2019 15:38 Page 34

MENDIP TIMES

Planning your funeral

• Accommodation, farm shop & events venue at the base of Glastonbury Tor • Cottages, cabins & glamping pods set within 16 acres of orchards, animal paddocks & gardens • Sleeps from 1-52 people across 26 bedrooms • Indoor swimming pool & group room • Dog friendly • Rates start from £70 per night

Middlewick Holiday Cottages Wick Lane, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8JW 01458 832351 hello@themiddlewick.co.uk www.middlewickholidaycottages.co.uk PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

IT'S an unavoidable truth that every one of us will need a funeral one day. A pre-paid funeral plan can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your wishes will be carried out and those left behind will not be burdened with the arrangements or costs.

Why should you buy a funeral plan? A funeral plan can also save hundreds of pounds compared to using savings.

Nigel Broderick is a member of the Best Funeral Plans Research Group and provides his services to both the public and the legal profession.

He has access to more than 75 different funeral plans from leading companies and will recommend a plan to suit your needs, your budget and avoid the pitfalls – not all plans are what they appear to be so get the facts – not the fiction. Payment by instalments is available.

Contact Nigel at Foresight Funeral Plans to discuss free services, offers and home visits with your family or attorney present if preferred.

Nigel can also offer light-hearted introductory talks at coffee mornings or club meetings.

Details: 078910 45643 or email nigel@foresightfuneralplans.co.uk

All smiles at a business first

The new board: (l:r) Lynette Whitcombe (treasurer), Ann Diment (secretary), Emma George (events organiser), Jill Barker (chairwoman) and Jo Friend (PR and marketing)

GLASTONBURY Chamber of Commerce has appointed its first all-female board, with Jill Barker as its chairwoman.

Jill, who runs Middlewick Holiday Cottages, succeeds Paul Manning who helped to relaunch the chamber three years ago when the town faced losing all its bank branches.

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Not all travel insurance is the same WHETHER you are considering skiing, rock climbing, or just simply sitting by a pool in a warm country with a book – make sure you get the most out of your travel insurance with these top tips: Think about the types of cover you need Do you need cover for personal belongings or winter sports activities – thinking about the covers you can exclude will help you save money and find the right policy. As well as excluding things you don’t need, remember that not all options are included in all policies and your travel insurance must be tailored to you and your needs, especially if you are over 65 or have a pre-existing medical condition.

The earlier you arrange your travel insurance the better.

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, your cover may take longer to sort. Depending on the cover you take out, travel insurance also covers you for cancellation and other problems which might arise before you travel.

Where are you covered to go?

Not all travel policies or providers enable you to go everywhere – if you are looking to travel to an Amber or Red zone (travelling against the advice of the Commonwealth Office and Government to somewhere such as Iraq or some parts of Kenya) you will need specialist travel insurance.

Do you need a single trip or annual multi-trip policy?

Look into the more cost effective option for you, keep in mind that some insurers limit annual multi-trip policies to cut off at the age of 75 (Higos can cover up to 100 years depending on circumstances).

Divulge your medical conditions If you are honest and accurate about your

BUSINESS medical conditions in the first place, you are less likely to encounter problems further down the line if you need to make a claim. Minor illnesses can be covered by standard travel insurance; more serious conditions need specialist insurance.

Specialist brokers such as Higos are ideal in this situation.

Keep receipts to help enable a claim if the worst happens If you need to make a claim for something such as a delay, keep your receipts and you should be able to charge the insurer for expenses occurred in the interim period.

Whatever your holiday plans, Higos Insurance Services is delighted to offer travel insurance policies with excellent levels of protection, including automatic cover for over 30 activities as standard.

To discuss your travel insurance requirements – and to obtain a competitive quotation – call us today on 01458 270 320. One of our expert advisers will help provide the travel insurance policy that matches your requirements.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 35

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MENDIP TIMES

• Court of Protection • Probate and estate administration • Children • Elderly and vulnerable client affairs • Trusts and succession planning • Care proceedings • Domestic abuse • Care Proceedings/PLO • Divorce and finances • Powers of Attorney and advance directives

Quality timber buildings and gates

BUSINESS

SINCE 1912 Sparkford Timber Buildings and Gates have produced work of a quality revered by industry and client alike.

Owners Nigel Lee and Neale Gear are committed to upholding their company’s proud heritage and a reputation built over more than 100 years.

From their Somerset workshop, a team of highly skilled carpenters and joiners create bespoke timber buildings, gates and doors with an uncommon dedication to quality and a fastidious eye for detail.

Sparkford buildings are constructed using only the highest grade of sustainable timber, each one demonstrating an uncompromising standard of workmanship.

Sparkford gates and doors are also constructed using only the highest grade of sustainable timber and feature robust morticeand-tenon joints. The use of additional rails for increased strength, 70mm thick framework plus bespoke hardwood TGV boarding and housing in all of the diagonal braces further demonstrates an uncompromising standard of workmanship.

Your own project begins with a bespoke set of detailed drawings specific to your particular requirement and intended use. Standard designs can also be adapted to suit your needs.

They also work closely with automation companies and can advise on power-operated opening systems. You will be expertly guided through the process from start to finish and your project personally overseen by the company directors.

Balloon flights over the Chew Valley, Mendips and Somerset Levels

PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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MENDIP TIMES

CELEBRATING OUR 25th ANNIVERSARY

Branches at: Street: 68 High Street, BA16 0EH. Tel: 01458 446899 Shepton Mallet: 3 Commercial Road, BA4 5BY. Tel: 01749 346926

Discount days across all three shops: Tuesdays: Kids day – £8 Wednesdays: Students – £8 Thursdays: Senior Citizens – £7

www.minksysbarbers.com

Twenty five years of service with style

Vicki and Clive outside the Street branch of Minskys

MINSKYS barber shop chain is celebrating the 25th anniversary of opening its first salon, in Street. Since owner Clive Mullins launched the Street branch, it has relocated three times – it is currently at 68 High Street – and, with partner Vicki Wyatt, has opened two further shops, in Shepton Mallet, more than nine years ago, and Wells, nearly five years ago.

All display the distinctive Minksys style – retro and relaxed.

Together they employ a team of 15.

The Wells shop now boasts the added attraction of Minskys Dolls, a ladies’ salon. Discounts are available with the couple’s daughter, Madison, in Minksys Dolls, and with their son Ry in the barber shop.

Clive said: “I would just like to thank all the customers – new and old – that have supported Minksys over the last 25 years.”

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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Horses and the Law HORSE riding is a popular activity in and around the Mendip area so it is worth having some idea of riders and owners rights and responsibilities.

At common law a horse owner is liable for any damage which is caused by a horse he owns where that damage is due to the horse owner’s own negligence. This might be the case where a horse owner keeps aggressive horses in a field through which a public right of way runs, or fails to provide adequate warnings about horses which are known to be dangerous.

A horse owner can also be liable where he allows horses to escape onto his neighbour’s property. For example, this might be the case where a horse owner fails to keep his horses properly secured and allows them to roam freely.

In this scenario, the owner will be responsible if the horses enter his neighbour’s land and cause damage to the property.

In addition The Animals Act 1971 contains provisions about the civil liability of owners for damage which is done by their animals. This Act deals with owner’s liability for damage caused both by dangerous and non-dangerous animals. In the case of horses, the owner will be liable for damage if it is proved that: 1. The damage is of a type which the horse would be likely to do if it was unrestrained; 2. The damage was due to characteristics which were not normally found in that type of animal, or which were found in

BUSINESS

that type of animal only at specific times and in specific circumstances; 3. The special characteristics were known to the owner.

The Courts have also made it clear that ‘panic’ was to be considered a special characteristic which is only found in horses under certain circumstances. It therefore follows that where horses are spooked and stampede in panic, the owner may well be liable for any damage caused.

Operators of riding stables have responsibilities to those who ride their horses who often will have no prior experience with horses, and will be unaware of their own limitations. So an operator would be wise to take precautions to ensure that: • All horses offered out for riding have the appropriate experience, training and temperament. Where a horse has shown itself to be aggressive or has demonstrated a tendency to throw riders in the past, the owner should take account of this and should not continue to offer the horse out until the issue is addressed; • All riders are provided with adequate safety equipment and are instructed on how to handle the horse; • Riders receive a health and safety briefing and are made aware of potential dangers, and what they can do personally to reduce the risk.

• There is a plan in place for dealing with accidents and providing first aid where someone is injured by one of the horses.

Road Traffic accidents: Horse riders owe a duty of care to other road users.

This duty extends to other riders, pedestrians, cyclists and vehicle drivers.

When deciding whether a horse rider has breached the duty of care, the court will consider whether the horse rider knew there was a risk of the accident occurring and whether a reasonable horse rider in the same situation would have realised there was a risk of such an accident occurring. Failure to comply with the law (including obeying the Highway Code) will ordinarily be enough to establish breach of the duty of care and entitle the injured person to compensation.

Accidents inevitably happen so it is vital to ensure that adequate insurance cover is in place at all times.

Edward Lyons

Email: enquiries@lyonslaw.co.uk Website: www.lyonslaw.co.uk Telephone: 01275 332168 An established and progressive law firm providing a personal and cost-effective legal service for commercial and individual clients. l Family & Divorce Law l Co-habitation disputes l Inheritance disputes l Wills and Living Wills l Powers of Attorney l Administration of Trusts l Property – sales and purchases Chew Magna 01275 332168

OFFICES AT: Westbury-on-Trym 0117 950 6506

Kingswood 0117 967 5252 MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 39

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MENDIP TIMES

GALHAMPTON Country Store

New name, new era at country store

A FAMILY-RUN SHOP & STORE ON THE A359 BETWEEN CASTLE CARY & SPARKFORD

extensive range of garden supplies

Horse feeds & supplies

TOOLS, CLOTHING, GIFTS, FOOD-TO-GO, PET, POULTRY, LIVESTOCK FEEDS & MORE Charles and Katie with William and George; Katie says: “They love being part of the shop team.”

agricultural merchants

Home essentials & hardware

Open seven days a week: Mon-sat 8am-5.30pm/sun 10am-4pm

Fir Tree Business park, High Road, Galhampton, yeovil, somerset, Ba22 7BH • Tel: 01963 440464 email: sales@galhamptoncountrystore.co.uk

LECATCHER MO We offer: Calibrations • Scales repairs • Servicing • Breakdowns All your weighing needs We also supply • New scales • Counting scales • Weighing equipment

NO MOLE NO FEE Telephone 01761 417100 www.mendipmolecatcher.co.uk

PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

THERE is a new name and a new lease of life for a busy country store on the edge of Castle Cary.

Galhampton Country Store – it used to be called Prompt Cabins Town and Country – is now under the ownership of Charles and Katie Bradley-Hudson and is located on the A359 between Cary and Sparkford.

The couple bought the site originally with the intention of relocating their events ticketing business Bradsons there, but immediately recognised the potential of the store itself which they are now renovating gradually, keeping the same team of friendly staff as before.

Charles and Katie – helped by their two young sons William, aged nine, and George, aged four – are also increasing the range of country essentials in stock – everything from animal feed (including raw dog food) and bedding to gardening supplies, gifts and clothing and foodto-go; they have also just started stocking artisan bread from the Lievito Bakery in nearby Lovington. The hardware section is as traditional as it gets.

Bradsons is a familiar name to anyone attending country shows such as the Royal Bath and West, North Somerset Show (Kate is a former show secretary) and Sherborne Castle Country Fair, as well as racegoers to Wincanton.

Katie said: “We only took over in January, but it feels like we have been here much, much longer. We originally looked at the site as a new base for Bradsons but saw the potential immediately for the shop to continue and thrive.”

Weighing options

JJ SCALES provide high quality weighing solutions, calibration services, repairs and maintenance to all areas of industry in the South West. Based in Bath, they can provide a fast and efficient service to the Somerset, Bristol, West Wiltshire and South Gloucestershire areas.

With vast experience in weighing, labelling and software solutions, JJ Scales understands the importance of the accuracy of weighing equipment and provide a service which ensures that this is maintained for you.

Details: 077 1374 2945 or email sales@jjscales.com

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You can’t pull the wool over the eyes of a sheep farmer

A VISIT to Helen and David Capel’s hill farm is a reminder of a more peaceful time when tea was loose leaf and shortbread was home baked.

Up there on the Mendips above Winscombe the views are breathtaking and on a gentle April afternoon it’s hard to imagine that for much of the year the life of a hill farmer is full on and arduous.

But David and Helen take it in their stride. What is obvious is that they not only have a joy in working hard but that they delight in sharing that joy with others.

As soon as you walk in, everything feels comfortable. From the pots of cuttings that greet you in the porch to the sitting room full of pictures of farms and family, you think to yourself “this is what

Events specialists

BUSINESS

home should be”. The welcome couldn’t be warmer.

David and Helen have been married 59 years and moved to Old Quarry Farm in 1970. They met at a student dance back in 1956 and the combination of his Lancashire determination and her Sussex enthusiasm soon clicked into place. They farmed up in Cumbria before moving south but it’s probably no coincidence that their property faces north and those North Country values still prevail.

David said: “I have always believed in straight talking and value for money and I reckon that people prefer honest opinions.”

He taught agriculture and practical skills at Cannington between 1965 and 1992 and his students benefited not only from his considerable knowledge but from his wise, no nonsense approach.

All this explains why the Capels chose Kingfisher when they had their windows replaced. Helen said: “I was impressed by how straightforward and honest they are. You’re never rushed into making a decision, nothing is too much trouble and no problem ever seems to be a problem. I would recommend them to anyone.”

As if running a farm and bringing up four children were not enough, both David and Helen have lived life to the full. She has swum, taught, helps run a hospital radio service, walked dogs and still plays badminton; he has played rugby and cricket and is still a mean skittler.

Theirs is a life that tells you that you don’t need to be surrounded by the latest in technological gadgetry to enjoy every moment.

Tony Thurling

ARCHERS Marquees is an events specialist covering Bristol, Bath, Somerset and the South West, providing marquees, furniture and equipment hire for weddings, festivals, corporate functions and charity events to name but a few.

They draw from their years of experience in the industry to offer their customers support and guidance from the first moment of contact right through until the event itself and are always on hand should any issues arise.

They take the time to understand the vision each customer has and pride themselves on being flexible, reliable and honest to work with.

One customer said: “The team at Archers are great to work with. Their positivity, can-do attitude, resourcefulness and responsiveness really helps with the overall organisation of an event. They have a planned, productive approach and are fun and helpful on-site – I’d definitely recommend them!”

Details: 01761 239200 or enquiries@archersmarquees.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 41

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MENDIP TIMES

THE lovely medieval square in Axbridge is not the only evidence of the past importance of this small, historic town at the foot of the Mendip Hills.

Did you know that there was once a bridge here, and where it was? And a Port of Axbridge? And that the marks left by the stone masons who built the imposing 15th century church of St John the Baptist tell a fascinating story?

Over the weekend of May 18th/19th, the Axbridge Archaeological and Local History Society (AALHS) is holding three events. On Saturday morning, John Page, of the Axbridge & District

Lady Day Fair, Axbridge before c.1731

Museum, will lead a walk around Axbridge.

In the afternoon, Dr Jerry Sampson, a leading authority on church buildings, will give a talk and exploration of the church. On Sunday afternoon,

(Picture courtesy of Axbridge and District Museum collection)

Discover Axbridge

Madeleine Roberts, a member of Axbridge Archaeological and Local History Society will lead a walk around the “Port” of Axbridge.

There is a charge of £3 for each of the events.

Details: to book a place, contact Elizabeth Friend friend.elizabeth@gmail.com 01934 712971 www.aalhs.co.uk

History of Camerton

THE Little Black Book is a brief history of Camerton by Julieann Biggs whose passion for history started 20 years ago when she and her husband ventured off on local walks around the village.

She began to record her findings, her passion grew and she knew the only way to keep the history together was by producing a book before it all got lost in time.

The book is about farming and a strong mining community, a vicar who lived in the wrong place at the wrong time and due to total despair shot himself in nearby woods.

It includes references to the church, school and church room, old post office, mines and the miners’ institute/hall, public houses, Methodist church, the canal, railway and much more.

The booklet is packed with potted history, a treasure trove of old black and white photographs, sketches, copies of original letters between a sister and her brother in the early 1800s and maps, all accompanied with historical detail.

It is on sale now from Oldfield Park Book Shop Moorland Road, Bath BA2 3PN. Details: www.theoldfieldparkbookshop.co.uk 01225 427722

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

History on the doorstep

Pictured (l to r) school head, Nik Gardner, Mike Wawn, Anne Wawn, Derek Arthurs, the Rev Paul Stephens and Fernie, the school’s “listening” dog

CHILDREN from Winford Church of England Primary School have been the first to try a new children’s trail launched by The Arts Society Mendip.

It uses a question sheet that guides children and accompanying adults round a church and encourages them to engage with the architecture, history and furnishings.

The children visited Winford’s church of St Mary and St Peter, which has a rare baptism pond in the churchyard, next to Winford brook.

One of the organisers, Anne Wawn, said: “The Arts Society members voluntarily give their time to research and write the questions and corresponding answer sheets. The aim is to encourage eight-12 year olds and their families to learn about the building and inspire them to visit and enjoy other churches.”

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HISTORY

Memorial planned for WW2 pilots THURSDAY June 6th this year is the 75th anniversary of the start of one of history’s biggest campaigns, D Day, which would ultimately turn the tide of WW2.

It is also the 75th anniversary of the deaths of two young airmen, Flying Officer Harold Roots and Flight Lieutenant Peter Cadman DFC, whose Airspeed Oxford MK 1, serial number L4616, crashed in a field near Barrow Gurney.

Now a relative, Simon Roots, is arranging a permanent memorial in their memory.

Flying Officer Roots was instructing Peter Cadman, conducting what were described as “circuits” from what was then RAF Lulsgate Bottom, now Bristol Airport.

Some 50 minutes into the flight at 9.40am, a fire broke out near the port engine that spread to the port wing at a height of around 2,500 feet. The pilots attempted to land the aircraft but due to fire damage to the flaps and control surfaces they were unsuccessful.

The aeroplane crashed into the ground in a field close to Freemans Farm, between the villages of Lulsgate Bottom and Barrow Gurney. Harold and Peter were killed instantly.

A local 16-year-old farm boy, Jim Vowles, of Freemans Farm, witnessed the crash and ran across the field to help. It was obvious from the intense fire that

Peter Cadman (fifth from the right) with his crew

there was nothing to be done to save the crew.

Harold was 24. Peter was 22.

The 75th anniversary of their deaths will be marked by the unveiling of a memorial stone, plaque and the laying of wreaths at the site of the crash.

The current farmer, Chris Vowles, son of Jim Vowles, has given his full support for the service. Along with family and invited guests, those attending will include members of the RAF Association, Royal British Legion and RAF Halton.

Simon said: “When I was conducting my research, I made contact with Chris, the son of young Jim Vowles. Chris still

works Freemans Farm.

“Chris was very kind to give me permission to visit the site of the crash in June to lay some flowers in remembrance of Harold and Peter. It was during this time that Chris reminded me that this year was the 75th anniversary of the crash.

“That ignited a determination in me to mark the anniversary with something more deserving than just a bunch of flowers. It will be a small recognition to these two young men, who died in the service of their country and who should be remembered for that ultimate sacrifice.”

An Airspeed Oxford

Flying Officer Harold Henry Victor Roots

If any readers feel they would like to attend the service, they are asked to contact Simon Roots via simonroots164@btinternet.com MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 43

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MENDIP TIMES

Expert wedding caterers

TOPLINE Catering have vast experience in catering for all types of events in all sorts of venues and their friendly and relaxed approach to organising a memorable occasion helps reduce the stress and strain that can spoil the excitement of planning your dream wedding.

From the initial enquiry, menu planning, sourcing great local ingredients, service on the day – everything is discussed, arranged and carried out in a slick and professional manner with pleasant and helpful staff ensuring that the event runs smoothly and all guests are properly looked after.

Don’t just stick to the traditional – Topline Catering have imaginative barbecue, big pan and sharing platter menus as well as the usual hot meal and fork buffet menus.

For fabulous freshly prepared food and top class, no nonsense service get in touch with Topline Catering on 01275 333308 or mail@toplinecatering.co.uk and then sit back, relax and enjoy your day.

If you are looking for quality mobile toilet and shower hire, or Trackway hire in the Bath, Bristol, Shepton Mallet, Wells & Glastonbury areas, call Chew Valley Hire Ltd on 01761 221 105 PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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Wedding and events venue opens in style

FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

AN official ribbon-cutting ceremony by Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis, followed by a glittering open day, heralded the start of a new era for the former village church in Godney which is now home to Glastonbury Wedding and Events.

Holy Trinity Church – it closed in 1998 – has been lovingly restored by the Churches family which farms next door. As its new name implies, it is much more than just a wedding venue, able to host everything from birthday parties to more formal ceremonies.

A f t w r n h n h g t

P # # r #

The Churches family with Michael Eavis

Daisy modelling a dress at the wedding fair event

The open day featured an expansive marquee next door which not only showcased many local wedding-related suppliers but highlighted how flexible the church and spacious surrounding grounds can be with spectacular views over the Somerset Levels towards Glastonbury Tor.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 45

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MENDIP TIMES

FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

Symbol of love

THIS time of year brings about a flourish of exciting proposals as the wedding season gets underway. Wedmore jeweller, Erica Sharpe, undertakes bespoke commissions for engagement and wedding rings throughout the year, but come spring, the rise in demand is fully established.

Each couples’ story, preferred styles and materials make the whole process exciting and totally unique to each individual.

Erica has created elaborate sparkling gem-set rings, rings that are true to her passion for the coast or wildlife from her Kerensa or Swan collections, to dainty and delicate flower designs which bring about an understated elegance.

All hand-crafted in Fair-trade gold or recycled precious metals, Erica’s work not only symbolises the unity of two people, but is a true reflection of the personalities and the principles of the wearers.

Details: Erica can be contacted through www.ericasharpe.co.uk

Wedding specialists – look your best on your big day

PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Death of Jean Bilk

AFTER our series of stories about Acker Bilk back in 2006 and later reporting on Acker Bilk's death in 2014, we are sad to announce that Jean Bilk, Acker's wife, has passed away.

Jean Bilk (nee Hawkins), was born and bred in Pensford where she and Acker went to school together.

Jean had said that she always had a crush on Acker but didn't go out with him until after he returned home from doing his National Service, finally marrying him in 1954.

They later moved to London, where they had two children Pete and Jenny, and where Acker made his name in the music world, before returning to Pensford many years later, where they spent the rest of their days together.

I name this station . . .

MICHAEL Eavis was the guest of honour when Castle Cary train station was rededicated in honour of the Glastonbury Festival.

The station is the transport hub responsible for taking thousands of people to and from the festival site. It is now known as “Castle Cary, Station of the Glastonbury Festival”.

Michael was joined by members of the festival team from Worthy Farm for the ceremony, but the event did not quite go according to plan.

A new Intercity Express Train named after Michael after he was nominated in a public poll of 100 Great Westerners run Michael with a copy of the new station signs

Members of Castle Cary and Ansford WI served breakfast to guests

The overall winner of the society’s annual competition PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

by operator Great Western Trains, had been due to arrive at the same time.

But a technical problem with another locomotive meant it was elsewhere by the time of the ceremony: a case of the train “not” standing …

GWR Sales and Marketing Director Phil Delaney said: “I know Michael is a keen supporter of the railways, and when you consider the number of places this will pass through, it is safe to say thousands more will see the high regard in which he is held across the South West.”

Great Western provides more than 50 extra trains to/from Castle Cary to help Glastonbury travellers attend the festival, carrying as many as 15,000 festival goers.

Picture of the year

JILL Toman’s “Sidecar Racing, Highbridge” was judged overall picture of the year 2018 at Norton Radstock Photographic Society’s annual presentation dinner.

Held at the Old Down Inn at Emborough, the event featured a display of the award-winning images by members.

The re-named Witcombe Millennium Cup for the best photograph at the society’s annual exhibition – as voted for by the public – went to David Chown’s creative “Books Bring Words to Life”, which also later took first place in the picture of the year category “Other”.

Mendip Times

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MENDIP TIMES

All smiles as Queen visits Mendip

EVENTS

A VISIT to the Ditcheat yard of horse trainer Paul Nicholls and the opening of a new music centre at a school in Bruton were part of the Queen’s itinerary on a visit to Somerset.

Glorious sunshine greeted HRH on her first visit to Somerset since 2012

Annie Maw, the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset accompanied the Queen

Cheddar Vale Lions’ tea party

THERE were smiles and laughter all round at the Cheddar Vale Lions’ senior citizens tea party. A coach was laid on to pick up around the Cheddar Vale area, together with minibuses and cars, to transport the party goers to Shipham Village Hall.

The Lions were busy all morning preparing a delicious tea

PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

The Queen fed carrots to some of the Ditcheat string of horses, including Cheltenham winner Frodon and King George VI winner Clan des Obeaux

Sharing a joke with Paul Nicholls (left) at Ditcheat with jockey Bryony Frost (third right)

with sandwiches, home-made cake and jelly, fruit with cream. Guests were even given goody bags to take home.

Entertainment was laid on with a quiz, sing-a-long and music from The Silver Levels Band. Cheddar Vale Lions Club have been running this event for over 40 years and it is still a highlight in their calendar.

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NEWS

Palace falcons say let us prey

VISITORS to the Bishop’s Palace in Wells were thrilled by a display of medieval falconry techniques.

And there was a special surprise for one of them: Hazel, of Glastonbury, was celebrating her 80th birthday and her family arranged for falconer Tony Bryant, from South Gloucestershire, to allow her to hold one of the birds of prey. Tony runs Raptorcare Falconry.

A barn owl in flight

Happy birthday – a treat for Hazel

Heaven’s above – Tony with an eagle owl

Warriors on litter warpath

NEARLY 20 Litter Warriors took to the streets of Frome on Saturday, April 13th to give the area around Lower Innox a freshen-up.

Each armed with their own litter picking set, the team tackled Lower Innox, Innox Hill, the river edge, along the cycle path and around Weylands. They filled around ten bags and also collected a child’s bike, a commercial battery and a plastic washing basket.

The next scheduled litter pick is on Saturday 11th May at 10am meeting on the corner of St John’s Road and Rodden Road. Everyone is welcome to take part in the litter picks, just turn up at one of the dates above. There are also children’s gloves and litter pickers so all the family can get involved.

Karen tries to tempt a Harris Hawk with food

A cuppa and a good book

A NEW series of monthly coffee mornings is to be held in Doulting, near Shepton Mallet, to coincide with the visit to the village by the mobile library.

The first will take place on Thursday, May 16th at the Community Room in the village hall, offering the chance of coffee and cake whilst choosing a good book.

The other dates are Thursday, June 13th, Thursday, July 11th, Thursday, August 8th and Thursday, September 5th.

Meanwhile, Doulting Community Association is holding a fundraising quiz night on Friday, May 17th at the village hall. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are £5 per person.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 51

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MENDIP TIMES

Charity donation

Celebrating 100 years

SOMERSET Sight is celebrating 100 years of service from 1919-2019. The charity was set up to help soldiers returning from WWI with sight loss, who needed support, aids and rehabilitation to return to normal life.

Bella Flood, chair of trustees said: “It is a fantastic achievement, celebrating 100 years of the organisation. It is impossible to over-stress how grateful we are to the numerous volunteers and staff members who have devoted so much time and energy into helping blind and visually impaired people in Somerset.”

Somerset Sight has been travelling around the county raising awareness and much-needed funds by hosting coffee mornings in various towns and villages.

Details: 01823 333818 or visit www.somersetsight.org.uk

FROME-based counselling charity We Hear You (WHY) has received more than £20,000 from building company Redrow South West. The money was raised through a combination of employee donations, dress down days, cake sales and challenge events, including a kayaking challenge on the River Wye and entering a team into Tough Mudder 2018.

The photo (above) shows Gemma Wilkes from WHY with Redrow South West’s managing director, Lee Hawker.

Four friends Hannah Culff, Nicole Poa, Charlene Ridler and Ruth Squires (pictured below) have raised £20,000 for the charity with a sponsored walk across the Sahara.

Details: 01373 488577 www.wehearyou.org.uk

Helping the homeless

THE YMCA’s Dulverton Group raised over £3,500 for young, homeless people as part of national YMCA’s Sleep Easy Week.

More than 30 people slept outdoors to raise money but also awareness of the work of the local youth charity.

Participants included Bridgwater Mayor Diogo Rodrigues who said: “It’s a terrible thing that in 21st century Britain there are so many rough sleepers on our streets.”

Emma Dalling, one of the event’s organisers said: “Sleeping rough for a night was a life changing experience for me. You can never truly understand how difficult it is being young and homeless, unless you experience even a fraction of what it’s like sleeping out.

“It’s definitely taught me to appreciate the life I have more, because not everyone gets a chance to have a bed at night and that’s not right.”

PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Lifeboat award

PETER Elmont, the chairman of Weston RNLI fundraising branch has been awarded a major national accolade for his work in raising over £750,000 towards the town’s desperately needed new lifeboat station.

The Prime Minister’s Point of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers – people who are making positive changes in their communities and around the world.

The Cabinet Office citation reads: “I am delighted to let you know that the Prime Minister would like to honour you with a Point of Light Award following your inspirational work leading the fundraising of over £750,000 to deliver an essential new headquarters for one of the UK’s busiest lifeboat stations.”

Peter has been the chairman of the RNLI fundraising branch in Weston for over ten years and has revolutionised the activities of the fundraisers.

He has been responsible for restarting a Lifeboat Week to involve the whole town, arranging collections in all the busiest venues and working with his wife, Bridget, he has ensured the local lifeboat shop is extremely successful.

Weston lifeboat has had a temporary base at Knightstone, since Birnbeck Pier was declared unsafe.

Peter said: “It is very nice to be recognised by this award.

However I have been blessed with a superb group of fundraisers and crew. Without them we could not have raised as much as we have.”

Peter Elmont

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Samaritans’ new base

THE Samaritans charity in North Somerset is looking forward to an exciting future with news of major changes to its offices and the opening of a new shop.

The news will mean the charity, which offers round the clock emotional support for people in distress or despair, will have a much greater public presence and, importantly, will have full disabled access for volunteers and members of the public.

Samaritans has been helping people in the North Somerset area for more than 45 years. Since 1984 it has occupied the first and second floors of the building at the corner of Westonsuper-Mare’s High Street, opposite Grove Park.

Now the opportunity has arisen to take over the ground floor of the premises – allowing the charity to make major internal improvements to the building, disabled access and improved working conditions for its volunteers.

The shop, selling books, retro and vintage items, vinyl, haberdashery and bric-a-brac will raise funds to secure the future of the branch.

Director Joe said: “This is a massive step forward for us.

For many years we have been aiming for disabled access and now this will be possible. It means our doors will be fully open for people with mobility issues – be they volunteers or members of the public seeking face-to-face contact.”

In the last 12 months the local branch, run entirely by volunteers, has answered around 15,300 phone calls, 1,000 emails and over 600 texts.

In the meantime the charity is advertising for a part-time manager to run the new charity shop as well as a team of volunteer retail assistants.

CHARITIES

If you want to get ahead . . .

A DOZEN Weston Rotarians were out in the town collecting for Marie Curie Cancer Care. It was chilly but the big yellow hats kept them warm and meant that they were hard to miss.

Behind the scenes they are working hard preparing for their annual Weston Rotary Dog Day which will be on Saturday, May 11th on the Beach Lawns from 10.30am, which promises to be even more fun than last year’s brilliant event.

Details: www.westonrotarydogday.org www.westonrotaryclub.org.uk George Horsfield 07900 160111

Sunday lunch is popular

Details: 07938 058973 or email samaritansrecruitmentwsm@yahoo.com

Tribute to teacher

FROME College welcomed Caroline Fish from the charity Winston’s Wish to a special assembly attended by over 240 students, where a cheque for £1,576.42 was presented in honour of teacher, Anna Kirsopp-Lewis, who tragically lost her life and her unborn son in a car accident before Christmas.

Students held a mufti day and a sixth form rugby cup match to raise the funds for Anna’s family’s chosen charity, which supports bereaved families around the UK. Caroline gave an in-depth talk and insight about the work the charity does and what the monies raised will be mean to other families.

She said the charity has received over £3,000 in honour of Anna and the large amount of funds raised will help to pay for a bereavement practitioner to work with families for a whole year.

THE Sunday Community Lunch project has got off to a great start at Crispin Hall in Street. The first attracted old friends and new, enjoying home-cooked food before relaxing on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

They are already looking forward to the next lunch on Sunday, May 12th. The doors to the main hall will be open at 12noon and all are welcome.

The hall’s recent refurbishment means organisers are celebrating a new era in Street. Food is served on a first come first-serve basis. The menu this month is chicken and leek casserole with roast potatoes and a selection of vegetables topped off with Eton mess for dessert followed by some local entertainment they hope!

The cost of a Sunday lunch is just £3 per person and they aim to fill the hall with up to 80 people as the news and growing popularity over the coming months spreads.

Details: Michaela at the Crispin Community Centre, Street Ba16 0HA 01458 447248 email:info@crispinhall.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 53

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MENDIP TIMES

Caring for tiny tots

Wedmore fashion

A CHARITY fashion show organised by Claire Bidwell, of Lime in Wedmore, raised more than £4,000 for local charity Help the Child. Some 120 ladies enjoyed the show and a two-course supper. The show featured local women and hats

by Emelle.

Thirteen is a lucky number for some Charley, Lee and Harrison

THE NICU Foundation, which supports care for premature babies, is launching a partnership with the South West Neonatal Network with the aim of raising awareness and funds for the 12 neonatal units in the region stretching from Gloucester to Truro.

An event at Clevedon Hall on Tuesday, April 30th will welcome doctors, nurses and consultants who can learn more about the new partnership and how the funds raised by the charity can support neonatal units across the region.

The foundation will also premiere a film helping to alleviate some of the worries that new parents may have about neonatal intensive care units.

The NICU Foundation was founded by Charley Maher and her husband Lee Maher in 2014 following the birth of their son Harrison when he was just 29 weeks old.

Charley was inspired by the care she received throughout her stay at various neonatal units and has since raised thousands of pounds for equipment and staff training.

Charley said: “As anyone who has had a child within a neonatal intensive care unit will tell you, it’s one of the most stressful and frightening times of your life.

“Our new animation aims to comfort new parents that often have limited places to turn, to find out more about the environment they have suddenly found themselves in."

Details: www.nicufoundation.co.uk or email hello@nicufoundation.co.uk

PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

IT was a case of “double lucky 13” for the Heads Up mental health charity at the latest Wells SOUP. The lunch was held on April 13th and it was the 13th time it had taken place.

The South Horrington-based charity came away with £400 and the other three good causes – Marie Curie, Wells Art Practice and Children’s Hospice South West – went away with £150 each.

Increased support from the public for the lunches has allowed organisers to increase the amount they are able to give away.

Wells SOUP has now benefitted a total of 51 charities to date.

Claire Hak from Heads Up told guests: “One in four people in this room will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime with one in 14 over the age of 65 diagnosed with dementia.”

Audience members pay £5 on the door for a choice of soups, a bread roll and a memorable lunchtime before hearing four charities tell their stories and voting on which deserves the biggest cheque. That money is then match-funded by a Wells business or in this case by a donor who wished to remain anonymous.

The lunch began with Lesley Ricketts from Macmillan Cancer Support of Wells telling how they had spent the £350 received at the previous SOUP. l The next Wells SOUPs are on Saturday, July 13th and Saturday, October 26th, both at the Connect Centre which is given the surplus food to feed the homeless.

Grants available

THE Somerset Croston Trust is looking to make small grants to charities and voluntary bodies in Somerset and B&NES. The trust has been going for some 28 years and in the past has run projects for disaffected youths on Dartmoor and also the Somerset Motor Project for those excluded from school.

For an application form write to: The Clerk to the Trustees, Pathway Cottage, Westhay, nr Glastonbury, BA6 9TU.

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Cyclists head for Wedmore

THE Wedmore 40/30 charity cycle ride is expecting more entries this year. A Weston Hospicecare fundraiser, Anita Wiegel-Lloyd, is one of those who will cycle the 30-mile route on June 16th in support of the charity.

The ride which starts and finishes at Wedmore playing fields offers routes of 12, 30, 40 or 70 miles through the scenic Somerset countryside.

Now in its second year, the event has challenging route options for seasoned cyclists, as well as family-friendly distances suitable for novices and even children.

Proceeds from the event will be used to support both Weston Hospicecare and the Friends of St Mary’s Church in Wedmore.

Anita experienced the support of the hospice before and after her husband died and has since gone on to join the hospice’s fundraising team at Jackson-Barstow House in Uphill.

Anita said: “If I can utilise my love of cycling to support our beautiful hospice, I will do. I personally experienced the hospice’s amazing work when my husband needed end-of-life care nearly four years ago. They were there for us and they did such a wonderful job.

“They gave my husband his dignity back and more importantly helped make him smile and laugh out loud again.

“After he passed away, they continued to support me for which I am still so very grateful.”

Anita cycled alongside a friend last year and says she is looking forward to taking part again: “The atmosphere was amazing and the event was so well organised. The organisers were extremely helpful when I had a puncture halfway through and the scenery en-route was breathtaking.

“In May, I am taking part in the 100km Women Versus Cancer Ride The Night in London so I will be well prepared for the Wedmore 30-mile route on June 16th.

“And of course the very tasty home-made cakes at the finish line will definitely keep me going!”

Details: www.wedmore4030.wixsite.com/home

Dancing for charity

CHARITIES

CLEVEDON-based youth charity, The Jack Hazeldine Foundation, held a barn dance to raise awareness of its activities and raised just under £1,000.

The charity’s managing director, Pearl Cross said: “JHF events create opportunities to bring the entire community together, young and old alike, including our young mentees who often feel isolated within their local environment. This event was a true representation of community spirit and we are so grateful to all those involved.”

Around 120 local people, decked out in awesome cowboy and cowgirl outfits, packed Kenn Village Hall to the rafters and an expert “caller” helped them show off their dancing skills as the band Gypsy’s Kiss played classic, traditional Irish and Scottish folk songs.

Details: iain@thejhf.org 07944 790388

Record attempt

CHARITY fundraiser, world record breaker and Frome Person of the Year 2018, Rachel Clark, is back this summer with another world record attempt supporting cancer support charity We Hear You. Her challenge is to put together the highest number of players in a continuous eight-hour game of skittles. The challenge will take place outside Frome Library on Sunday, June 2nd.

The existing world record stands at 468 people, so to beat the record, each skittles player needs to throw three balls and clear the way for the next player in one minute or less.

Rachel and her brothers Daniel and Matthew have raised more than £30,000 for local causes since 2011 in memory of their mother Shirley with most of the money raised going to We Hear You (WHY).

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 55

Fundraisers help prostate cancer research

(l:r) David Watts, Lyn Addicott, Jason Winter (general manager Ston Easton Park Hotel) and Graham Howell, retired consultant urologist

A SERIES of fundraising events by David Watts and Lyn Addicott, both of Ston Easton, has raised £10,600 for Prostate Cancer UK. The events have included an auction of promises and a raffle at Ston Easton Park Hotel and a cheese and wine evening.

The latest cheque – for £6,800 – was presented to retired consultant urologist at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, Graham Howell, who has a specific interest in urological cancers. He said that treatments were constantly evolving, particularly for prostate cancers, and these are driven by research which is funded by donations.

David said: “I would like to thank everyone who has supported all the events to help us raise such a large amount of money. So many men could fall victim to this particular cancer. Together we can help to fight it.”

Dancing for hospice

TWELVE brave couples from North Somerset have helped raised more than £18,000 at Weston Hospicecare’s Strictly Fun Dancing.

The couples all danced either a salsa or a waltz before five pairs went through to the final at the Winter Gardens.

Participants Angie Szabo and Stuart Milne took home the trophy after winning the judges’ vote for their dances.

BBC Radio Bristol’s Emma Britton, event sponsor Demetris Demetriou, dance teacher Chloe Helmore and last year’s winners Sarah Woolf and John Harvey judged the couples’ dances.

More than 340 people bought tickets for the occasion and packed out the Winter Gardens in Weston for another memorable night, which is expected to raise more than £20,000 for the charity.

The night was compered by television presenter Martin Roberts, best known for PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Support for charity

CHARITIES

Alice Roberts

ACADEMICS and TV presenters, Professor Alice Roberts and Miranda Krestovnikoff, will talk about fame and philanthropy at an event hosted by Quartet Community Foundation.

They will share tales from the world of TV and radio and will reveal their personal passions as they’re joined on stage by local charitable organisations.

The event on Monday, May 13th is followed by drinks and supper in the spacious waterside setting of The Bristol Hotel, centrally located next to Bristol’s iconic Pero’s Bridge. Tickets cost £25.

Miranda Krestovnikoff Details: https://aneveningwithaliceandmiranda.event brite.co.uk

Homes Under the Hammer, who gave his time for free. Dance teachers Ben Hazell and Ali Cooling, from Weston-based Burning Salsa, taught the couples their routines in the weeks leading up to the grand finale.

Hospice events manager Kelsey Dehaney said: “I thought it was a fantastic event, we are so proud of how far everyone came along during the ten weeks of training. They certainly put on a fantastic show.”

Students from Weston College pampered the couples before they took centre stage.

Next up on the fundraising events calendar for Weston Hospicecare is the

Details: westonhospicecare.org.uk/mendip

Mendip Challenge which will take place on Sunday, June 2nd.

Weston Hospicecare supporters are being invited to battle for glory across a series of inflatable obstacles and foam pits this summer in the charity’s It’s A Hospice Knockout team challenge.

The event will take place at Weston Cricket Club on July 14th and it costs £100 per team to secure a place, with each team being encouraged to raise at least another £500. Participants must be at least 17 years old to take part.

Last September, the first It’s A Hospice Knockout raised nearly £11,000 as the Grand Pier’s team took home the trophy.

(Photograph courtesy of University of Birmingham)

MENDIP TIMES

(Photograph courtesy of Frances Gard)

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WILDLIFE

Rewilding our towns

THE local elections are upon us once again and there’s a lot of public attention being focused on the natural environment.

It does appear that the message is getting through that it’s not ok for us as a species to continue to destroy and pollute the planet.

Indeed, at some of my local wildlife lectures

By CHRIS people who are not associated with any SPERRING MBE wildlife or environmental group are talking to me about their fears for the future for us as a species. We are not separate from the natural environment; we are heavily connected to it and, ultimately, governed by it.

When I see nature at work even in my own garden I see a complex web of species, whether predator or prey, flower or fungus, and no matter how seemingly separated in fact all are linked so obviously. To remove one part begins a chain reaction of collapse.

Last month I spoke at my own town cuncil meeting about unlocking the natural environment within the urban area. I spoke about what nature gives us in terms of the off-set to vehicle pollution provided by trees and shrubs and, using some studies from the USA, was able to appeal to the more businessorientated people in the room by putting a monetary value on nature.

This is in fact something I’m loathe to think about, however it does appeal to some, an example of which might be, just think if we had to pay for the air we breathe what would the cost be? Or, as I heard quite recently: “If you don’t think nature is important then try counting your money whilst holding your breath.”

So, locally, we’re hatching a plan to do something about our local environment, from the air we breathe to helping the blackbird desperately trying to eke out a living in a built-up area. The benefits to people will be enormous. It’s a fact, and I say that with the back-up of many scientific papers on the subject, that being close to nature or living in a more natural environment is good for our health both mentally and physically.

The proposal is to increase the tree coverage by 20-30% as soon as possible (start planting). Again, there’s a financial gain from trees, in the USA it’s said that having a tree in your garden can add 15% to the value of your property, here in the UK the figure often quoted is 7%, but either way there are monetary benefits.

Planting hedges and trees along roadsides where congestion is

highest does soak up car emissions, as well as dampen noise pollution, reduce flooding and produce oxygen.

As well as planting trees we also need to look closely at the grass cutting regimes of all green spaces within urban areas, including roadside verges, riverbanks, parks and graveyards.

Now, what this doesn’t mean is that we give up doing this maintenance altogether, just do less and think carefully about when and how we go about it.

Currently in some places the grass is being cut once a week through the summer which, as I have seen locally, badly affects several species of bee. On top of the wildlife destruction there is the financial cost of this over-management to our local tax payers. This change is probably the most controversial as people seem to love to see golf course-type cutting in public places, and there’s no reason why some of this shouldn’t continue, but why do we need permanently short grass on roadside verges?

Of course, grass needs to be kept short where people play, walk and picnic, but banks and verges which are often steep and have concrete footpaths next to them can surely be maintained for wildlife rather than just looking like a green carpet!

There’s hardly a day goes past now when the news doesn’t contain mention of some natural environmental disaster. My point is that we can start doing something positive by acting locally. As I said at the council meeting, this has to be done and owned by local people, as they will then carry this on to new generations to come.

The response from the council was supportive and they have promised to help facilitate our urban rewilding plan. This response is exactly what I want because this means that we can draw up plans and we have the councils’ help to present those plans to the contractors who carry out the grass cutting regimes.

This is a ground-up approach which will in time save tax payers’ money and increase the wildlife in an urban area.

Please do contact me if you're doing something similar in your area, or you wish to start.

Yellow-legged mining bee

Hawthorn flowers

An ashy mining bee

Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him via chris.sperring@btinternet.com

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 57

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MENDIP TIMES

A tour around the Avalon Marshes

THE Somerset Levels are essentially a summer landscape and this glorious walk, ideal in dry weather, explores the Avalon Marshes, goes through Oxenpill to Meare and finishes by following the broad dry track through Shapwick reserve where you will be able to observe many birds and hear the booming of the bittern. There is an option to visit the Sweet Track Trail

near the end, which will add another 20 minutes. There is a great cafe at the Avalon Marshes centre and half-way round find a pub and the RSPB centre, where you can have hot and cold drinks (self serve) and snacks and get the chance to see what is happening on the RSPB’s webcam. Walking is mainly very dry with possibly mud and wet patches in the fields near the start. There are a several stiles and footbridges but none will be a problem for dogs.

PARK: In the car park at the Avalon Marshes Centre situated on Shapwick Road which runs between Westhay and Shapwick.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

START: The Avalon Marshes Centre owned and run by Natural England has visitor information, café (indoor and outside seating), craft shop and toilets.

It is also an important focus for educational and other events and is the central hub for the management of the Avalon Marshes nature reserves. Work is ongoing and includes the construction of replica buildings. One is a Romano British dining room with a working hypocaust; the other a Saxon long hall based on the ninth century Saxon Royal Palace at Cheddar. They are not yet generally open to the public but you can see them from outside the cafe.

Turn right from the centre along the road to the peat works next door on the

right. By the entrance gate follow the footpath arrow left through a wicket gate and then go right alongside the large corrugated building and bend round the back through a gate. Follow the path over a footbridge and into a field. Notice the bumpy nature of the field, which perhaps could once have been the site of a settlement. Head across to another footbridge with a derelict cottage on the right. Once over, continue on over the peaty field and across another footbridge.

1. FISHING LAKES Come onto a track between fishing lakes, a popular spot particularly for carp fishing. Turn left into Heath Lake area and right at the end along the top of the lake on a track. Keep straight ahead on a small path and over a stile and on to another. Come onto a track, obviously used for peat workings, and turn right. At the end of the reed beds on the left, follow the footpath arrow left.

2. FOOTBRIDGES Now for several minutes simply maintain direction across the fields, over footbridges until you reach a long field. Here turn left and go up the full length. Go through a marked gate in the middle over a rhyne and on up the field to the top corner where a gate opens onto a track. This leads up to a lane.

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WALKING

3. LANE Turn right and follow it round to the main road in Westhay. Turn right along the edge with care (there will be traffic) for just a few yards. Cross, and just past the first house on the left, turn left up between hedges (not marked as a footpath, but it is). Go through a gate and along a grassy track past yards and low buildings and go down the long narrow field to a kissing gate in the corner at the end and over a footbridge onto the Meareway, a quiet lane running between Westhay and Oxenpill.

Le

4. MEAREWAY Your route goes right now. There are pleasant views left over the levels to the Mendip Hills.

5. OXENPILL Continue all the way to houses in Oxenpill and bend round right with the lane to the main road. Cross and go left along the pavement for a short way, taking the first turning right on the no through road – Millbatch. Go past houses and then on out towards the open levels again. On the bend, go left, over a stile by a gate on the marked path crossing the field to a footbridge. Cross this and bear diagonally right up the field and through a large metal gate. Now, head straight on towards blue twin gabled corrugated barns in the distance. Start to bear left and reach a wooden footbridge on the left in the corner. Cross and

5.8 miles, about 3.5 hours walking, plus stops. OS Explorer 141, Cheddar Gorge & Mendip Hills West. Grid ref: 425 414. Postcode (to within half mile) BA6 9TT.

follow the rhyne along and up over a stile onto Ashcott Road – a straight route across the levels which is fairly quiet.

6. ASHCOTT ROAD Turn right, over the bridge and follow this route for about half a mile reaching the Railway Inn on the left (open lunchtimes on Wednesdays and at weekends) and then a little further on come to a bridge over a wide rhyne – the former Glastonbury Canal. The canal, opened in 1834, ran for approximately 14 miles (23 km) through two locks from Glastonbury to the River Parrett at Highbridge and then to the Bristol Channel. It was abandoned as a navigation in 1854, when a railway was built along the towpath.

7. SHAPWICK HEATH RESERVE Our route goes right along the old railway route into Shapwick Heath Nature Reserve. However, before that, it is worth dropping into the RSPB centre and reserve a couple of minutes away across the road. Go past the old station and left and then right along the boardwalk. There is a good information hut on site. You can get hot and cold drinks and snacks here and there are picnic tables, a wooden shelter and toilets. Make sure you look and see what the webcam is showing in the hut. When I came it was focused on a tawny owl in

a nest box.

So go back to entrance to the Shapwick Heath Reserve under the barrier and follow the dry track, soon coming alongside the old canal again with splendid views over the lakes and reed beds for about 2.5k. There are several seats along the way. Continue until you reach a notice for the Sweet Track, the 5,800 year old walkway across the Levels. There is nothing left to see of the actual Sweet Track but it shows the work that has gone on to keep the route dry, with rhynes and pumps along the way. It is about a 20 minute pleasant detour*.

So, turn left and at a second sign, take the first right along a boardwalk. At a third notice and an information board, go left on the track until you reach the replica of the Meare Heath trackway and then turn back to the information board.

It’s left now to return to the main route alongside the old canal. Turn left for a few minutes to reach the road.

8. ROAD *If you don’t want the detour, just carry on along the main track by the canal to the road. Go right along the road to the Avalon Marshes Centre.

Avalon Marshes Centre, 01458 860556.

The Railway Inn, 01458 860223

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 59

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MENDIP TIMES

OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s diary

“HEY Nonney, Nonney No”… it’s nearly here, the merry month of May that is! Those few words I open this month’s column with are from a song that is said to have been popular in the reign of Henry VIII. I well remember singing it at my junior school in the 1950s, whilst looking out of the With LES window, wishing I was back home in the DAVIES MBE fields. The same feeling is occurring today as I sit in the kitchen, working on my laptop, whilst looking out of the window.

It’s the same feeling that revisits me every so often, that pull of the woods and fields, especially in spring time. So yesterday, I gave into it and ran away to Foxwood!

It was like playing truant, the feeling of guilt. Surely I should be doing something else, something productive and not wasting my time leaning against trees, or bimbling along thinking about something, everything and nothing! In truth, it lifted my soul and gladdened my heart.

“Wasting time” is something we hear a lot of, when in fact spending time immersed in something you enjoy doing is anything but a waste of time. I took time to supervise the bumble bees working the bright blue flowers of the common bugle, checked on progress with the bluebells as they poke their heads above the grassland and made sure that the whole place was up and running as it should be.

A few butterflies reported in as they skipped by, a couple of brimstones and an orange tip amongst them, just to let me know that all was good in the world. The sun shone down from a clear blue sky on a warm April day and the good Lord and myself were in our respective heavens!

Back in the real world, however, everything is kicking in with the countryside. It’s not just the hedgerow and grassy bank that’s reaching for the sky. The productive farmland is also busy with spring grass. High in sugar and oils but low in fibre, it provides a different diet to that which cattle have been used to throughout their winter months.

They still get excited at turn-out and the sheer enjoyment they display has to be seen – school children at playtime have nothing on the “bovine boisterosity” (spell check does not recognise this word) displayed by these animals.

Lighter evenings and even lighter mornings are one of the great joys at this time of year. All winter we have had darkness and more darkness. I have heard it said there are plans to get rid of our daylight saving measures and go to a standard time all year round.

Not something that will get my vote!

How I enjoy the evenings and being able to listen to the blackbird in my garden. Every year there seems to be a new kid on the block. Whereas the blackbird song remains fairly constant, I have found variants that allow me to identify an individual, or so I think.

The last couple of years I have heard “chewy-chewy” and “pretty birdy” so I look forward with eager anticipation to the new format this year. Bold as brass doesn’t begin to describe these birds, they obviously feel safe with me around them, coming up close to snatch the worms I turn up with the spade. I also watched the frantic feeding of a somewhat rotund fledgling by the male blackbird. Whilst father frantically rushed about, young ’un

waddles about opening its beak every time he came anywhere near. No wonder they are washed out by the end of the nesting season!

There’s no better time to be out and about than now, but take care as the adder population will be on the move after hibernation.

Dogs will be the most vulnerable as they snuffle around beneath the bushes, so keep them close to you. Having spent a long winter asleep, the adder will be slow to move, relying on staying still for protection. It will however strike if it feels threatened.

Farm livestock are also vulnerable, especially the lambs. Stress levels in sheep tend to go sky-high at the best of times and as you can imagine at this time of the year it will be even worse. I talk to the converted here, people who are familiar with the workings of the countryside, but there are some visitors to the countryside I am afraid to say, who don’t know how to behave.

In my living room, between two settees is a large wooden box on which are stacked a range of pick-up-and-put-down books.

Some are for reference, such as Oliver Rackham’s History of the Countryside and some for general reading. One book that bridges the two is Edith Holden’s, The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady.

You will have heard me refer to this book many times before and I shall do so again, without apology or regret. She never intended it for publication and whilst much of her other work seems to have gone unnoticed, it was only many years after her tragic death that this book come to the fore. In an entry on May 1st, 1906 she describes a journey up from Devon: “Weather still cold and showery, with bright intervals of sunshine. Travelled up to Bristol. The country is looking much more beautiful than when I came through it three weeks ago. The primroses are still thick on the banks, the hedges are all green, many of the apple orchards in blossom and the oaks showing the first signs of golden bronze foliage. In Somerset the meadows were yellow with cowslips. These flowers are not found in Devon, except on the northern borders of the county; farmers will tell you that the soil is too good for them.”

Amongst the many things to look out for in the coming month will be the North Somerset Agricultural Show, the Royal Bath and West Show at the end of May and on May 11th I will be at an event called “Wildedges” at the Grange, next to Clark's Village in Street.

It’s an art project based on the walled apple orchard, something quite different by Glastonbury artist Melanie Thompson. It’s running from May 4th-18th. Come and have a look and listen!

Finally this month’s picture is a view from Foxwood. Is there anywhere better to run away and hide?

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

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YEO VALLEY

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 61

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MENDIP TIMES

Ne’er cast a clout ’til May be out

MOTHER Nature dealt gardeners a nasty blow in early April in the form of a frost just as we had become complacent after a few days of glorious sunshine and warmer temperatures. She knows that she will catch us out.

As climate change takes effect our With MARY plants appear to be waking up a bit earlier PAYNE MBE each spring – about two weeks earlier if we are to believe the scientists.

I had watched the buds on my wisteria developing with great expectations of the show to come, only to be dashed by the whole lot succumbing to the minus 3C of frost. I suppose that is partially the result of living in a frost pocket created by the Chew Valley and partly my fault for not covering the plant with fleece.

The moral of this story is never trust the British weather.

As soon as we get a fine spell we rush into the garden and start wanting to sow and plant – but grower beware.

Jekka McVicar, our local herb queen, suggests you take the temperature of the soil by sitting on it with your bare backside! Rather similar to the old test of dipping your elbow into the baby’s bath water.

As gardeners we must increasingly adapt our growing techniques to cope with our changing climate which could send us periods of drought, as in the summer of 2018, or even persistent rain causing flooding as well as temperature rises.

Where dry conditions are experienced it is important to conserve the available moisture in the soil. We can do this by applying a 5cm (2”) depth of woodland mulch as this cuts down the loss of soil moisture by evaporation from the surface.

Not only does mulch do an excellent job of conserving moisture but has the added advantage of preventing the germination of weed seeds. It looks attractive and as a bonus can insulate the roots and help prevent frost damage of vulnerable plants over winter e.g. dahlias, cannas, ginger lilies.

Using home-made compost as a surface mulch can cause more problems than it solves as it may contain weeds seeds which will happily germinate.

We can also help prevent soils drying out by increasing the amount of water that can be held by adding plenty of organic matter on a regular basis. This can be home-made garden compost, mushroom compost or composted green waste – both the latter are not recommended for those growing rhododendrons, camellias and other acid-loving species.

Even on a clay soil the organic matter will improve the soil by aggregating the fine clay particles leading to improved drainage and aeration, so important for good root development.

Watering seems an obvious choice during dry spells, but it should only be done as a last resort and used very carefully.

Water is a precious resource. Water applied to the soil surface, if not adequate to penetrate to the root zone, simply encourages the roots to come to the surface where high temperatures increase evaporation leading to problems.

Overhead sprinklers merely wet the foliage and often prevent water getting to the roots. Low level watering using PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Cineraria 'Cirrus'

drip systems or low level sprinklers are best used at night on a timer. If watering by hand, watering in the evening or early morning is best, so the plants absorb the water before the temperatures rise.

Pots and baskets are very vulnerable during periods of water shortage. Automated timed systems are excellent, using drippers into each pot to deliver adequate water without wastage. So many of the pubs in our area use this system to great effect.

A water retaining gel (Swellgel) added to the compost to help store water in summer baskets and containers is an excellent idea but take care to get the dosage rate correct.

Our gardens contain a diverse collection of plants from many parts of the world, each one with its own likes and dislikes. It is important therefore that plants are selected and positioned carefully so that they can thrive.

For dry conditions, try to select plants that have succulent leaves as these store water. Sedums are an excellent example of a plant that rarely needs water once established.

For summer colour begonias, in all their forms, are ideal as they have fleshy leaves and are quite drought tolerant and even tolerant of shady conditions.

Hairy leaves trap a layer of moist air between the hairs, thus reducing the amount of water loss from the leaf surface, so Zonal Geraniums (Pelargonium), for sunny areas, are a good choice.

Many silver-leaved plants are also drought tolerant as the silver effect is created by close packed hairs e.g. Cineraria ‘Cirrus’ (see picture). Other natural adaptations to look out for include leathery leaves, including many evergreens and small or reduced leaves. Broom (Cytisus) relies heavily on its green stems for photosynthesis.

The good news about climate change is that we can experiment growing an ever-increasing range of plants from around the world but then be prepared to give protection if necessary.

We must all protect our planet in every way we can and our gardens are a haven for a huge variety of pollinating insects and birds. As gardeners we may not love all of them all of the time.

Enjoy your own garden but try to visit some of the local gardens which open in aid of the National Garden Scheme.

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M AY G A R D E N T I P S

• Time to plant up your hanging baskets and containers.

• Give some of your border perennials the “Chelsea Chop”.

If you cut some of them back by about half now it will delay flowering but extend the display longer in your garden.

• Harden-off annual bedding plants ready to plant out soon.

Put them in a shady spot, keep well watered but bring them back inside if frost is likely. Keep a close eye on them and they will be toughened up ready to plant after about a week.

• Be ready to cover tender plants with horticultural fleece if frosts are forecast. Check the forecast every day this month.

• Order Slug nematodes and rid your plants of this pest the natural and safe way.

• Stake border perennial varieties that are tall growing and that tend to flop over. Either use pea sticks (tree and shrub prunings are good) or use purpose-made support systems.

• Plant out cannas and cosmos (chocolate plant), dahlias and begonias.

• Trim foliage off early flowering perennials to encourage fresh new leaves. Lungwort (Pulmonaria) responds particularly well.

• Hostas divide well this month. Lift clumps and split them up making certain that each shoot has plenty of root attached.

• Wait until spring flowering bulb leaves die back naturally before removing them.

• Watch out for scarlet lily beetles. This pest can eat your lily leaves in a few days! Control with Provado Ultimate Bug Killer.

Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists

GARDENING

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Tel: 01934 626093/813261 www.westongarden.co.uk

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We also do: Chicken Houses Dog Kennels • Bin & Log Stores YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT US AND SEE OUR SHOW MODELS – OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

THE TIMBERYARD • SHUTE SHELVE • CROSS • NEAR AXBRIDGE Tel: 01934 732 396 • www.timberworkbuildings.co.uk e.mail: timberbuildings@aol.com

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 63

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MENDIP TIMES

Sowing the seeds

Save the dates (l:r) Jennifer Bowskill, show chairwoman, Emily Forrester, vice-chairwoman, Ursula Smallman, secretary, and committee member Jill Colby

We cover all aspects of Tree surgery including felling, crown reductions, pollarding, tree surveys, hedgecutting and stump removal

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For a free quote give Alex a call on 07764 633003 / 01761 462968 or email us: holroydtgs@gmail.com www.holroyd-tgs.com

GARDENERS in Nunney have staged their first seed swap and plant sale ahead of a busy summer.

Members of the Nunney and District Flower Show committee organised the day in the village hall ahead of their open garden day on Sunday, June 2nd and their main show on Saturday, September 7th.

More than 18 gardens around the area will be open on June 2nd.

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PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH

GARDENING

Wellfield Barn garden

ALTHOUGH it is only three-quarters of a mile from Wells Market Place, Wellfield Barn enjoys a tranquil rural position on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills, with views across trees and the Somerset Levels to Glastonbury Tor and beyond.

The garden was constructed from an old concrete farmyard by the owners, David and Virginia Nasmyth, starting in the mid-90s. The design of the garden is again all the work of the owners.

The intention was to integrate house and garden with the landscape. The lay-out is highly structured, with a strong rectilinear plan holding the design together. A ha-ha borrows the landscape and includes it in the garden.

Grass paths lead between areas of longer grasses taking visitors to shaped garden spaces – round, semi-circular, a rectangular sunken garden and a kidney-shaped area.

Benches punctuate the journey, providing opportunities for rest and reflection.

The main flower garden combines trees, shrubs perennials and bulbs in an informal “cottagey” planting around a lawn.

Levels have been created so that nearly every planting area slopes, providing good drainage and plant display.

The main interest for the plantsman is the collection of hardy geraniums. Elsewhere trees, a mix of natives and more exotic introductions, provide the main interest along with the grasses.

The garden was shown on BBC Gardeners World with Carol Klein.

NGS opening details: Tuesday, May 28th, 11.30am-4:30 pm, last entry 3.15pm.

Admission: £5, children free.

Also open by arrangement during June & July for groups of up to 30; home-made teas, please book refreshments in advance.

Details: David & Virginia Nasmyth, 01749 675129.

Walcombe Lane, Wells BA5 3AG. Other Gardens Open for the NGS To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, available from local garden centres, or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 65

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MENDIP TIMES

Dear Mendip Times, My inspiration and love for life comes from nature, particularly from taking walks in the magnificent Mendip Hills. But nature, including our species, is under serious threat.

A recent study in Germany showed insect numbers have declined by 75% over 27 years, falling at the alarming rate of 2.5% per year. Not only is our countryside enriched by their sounds, they are an important food source for many birds and mammals and they pollinate the food we eat.

By poisoning them with pesticides and removing their habitat, we are endangering our own existence.

Just this alone would be enough of a concern. However, climate change is now accelerating with more extreme weather events becoming the new normal. More than half of the carbon released into the atmosphere by the burning of fossil fuels has occurred in the last three decades – this is since we really started understanding the climate science.

What have we done in the face of this existential threat?

Some have lobbied, protested and petitioned. But to what avail?

It seems that things are getting worse and the government really are turning a blind eye.

Fortunately, there may be hope. Just last year, a grassroots

movement called Extinction Rebellion started in Bristol.

They have grown exponentially since October with active groups in 35 countries as well as a recently formed Mendip group.

We have identified three clear steps for our government to take in order to bring about the change needed. If these are not taken, we feel we have no alternative but to carry out peaceful resistance. This has worked many times throughout history – for the Suffragettes, the Civil Rights movements and in many other situations.

All we need is 3.5% of the population on board and history has shown that governments can be forced to change policies.

In October 2018, we delivered our demands to the government in Parliament Square. These are: 1. That the government tell the truth about climate and the wider ecological emergency, reverse inconsistent policies and work alongside the media to communicate with the people.

2. The government must enact legally binding policy measures to reduce carbon to net zero by 2025 and to reduce consumption levels.

3. A citizen’s assembly to oversee the changes, as part of a democracy fit for purpose.

As these measures have not yet been considered, we feel forced to take action in the form of peaceful resistance until the government reacts to our demands.

Our Rebellion Week started on April 15th with thousands taking to the streets of London, causing peaceful disruption until our demands are met. I have so much hope that this will work, that we will implement better policies to construct a healthier world and one in which our grandchildren and incredible natural world may have a future.

Rebekah West Mendip National Trust ranger

Details: https://www.ucsusa.org/our-work/global-warming/science-and-impacts/global-warming-science https://extinctionrebellion.org.uk/ rebekahywest@gmail.com

PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Dear Mendip Times, I can only agree with Peter Janes (April issue) – tackling the litter problem needs both government, business and local action.

I have adopted a mile of country lane, of necessity a solo occupation as organised groups fall under local authority H&S guidelines. A three-day blitz produced five full plastic sacks of litter but now the weekly total is around two-three carrier bags.

It keeps me fit, I enjoy seeing the lane look clean and tidy and can now see at close quarters the changing hedgerows, local flora and fauna.

What have I learnt about litter louts? They drink and drive. Copious (and worrying) amounts of cider, lager, energy drinks, the odd bottle of vodka and some water.

They eat at fast food outlets, preferably the meal deal (you can spread the empty contents over a greater distance?) as well as supermarket takeaway meals, cakes, crisps, snacks and sweets. They smoke and consume a variety of pills and drugs.

Healthwise, hardly a recipe for a long life but I am more concerned with their mental attitude.

I was brought up to never throw litter anywhere and still cannot fathom why people can’t take their litter home or dispose of it properly?

Jackie Petherbridge Puxton

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READER’S OPINION

Activists in London for extinction rebellion protests CAMPAIGNERS from Frome and Bruton were amongst those taking part in Extinction Rebellion climate change demonstrations in London.

Cyclists from Bruton joined a convoy from Cornwall to the capital to take part in the action, whilst activists from Frome wore animal-themed headdresses and carried banners.

Banner making in Frome

… before heading to Frome, Newbury and then the capital

Garden villages – the debate on Mendip continues

MENDIP villages are STILL under threat from the proposals for the two so-called “Garden Villages” at Churchill/Mendip Spring and Banwell, despite overwhelming opposition.

This unprecedented opposition has been consistent since the first public consultation on the West of England Joint Spatial Plan (JSP) in November 2017 and throughout the following three consultations finishing in March 2019 yet NOTHING has changed. Why? The proposals involve 4,700 new houses and also include a major new dual carriageway from the M5 to the A38. This urbanisation will see village life and high grade agricultural pastures turn into a commuter town the size of Wells, built in piecemeal developments putting pressure on local roads and infrastructure.

Bristol needs these houses; it has one of the fastest growths of employment in the country. The logical and viable alternative site to build them is adjacent to the South Bristol link road on the edge of Bristol in N. Somerset and is ready to go. Here people can walk or cycle to work or use both existing and new public transport.

Known as The Vale, the site is poor grade agricultural land but takes up just two percent of North Somerset’s massive green belt – which some have suggested could be reallocated to protect the Mendip Hills AONB. All other local authorities intend to build on their green belt land so why not NSC? After all, NSC seems very happy for Bristol Airport to expand its car parking into the green belt.

Now government funding is being applied for a Banwell bypass to be built in isolation.

“Oh good,” I hear you thinking. Wait a minute! Spot the devil in

the detail. Banwell is a deterrent to hordes of HGVs travelling south to the ports of Portsmouth and Southampton.

Build a bypass and the floodgates open to every juggernaut thus multiplying the traffic along the A368 and then up onto the Mendip Hills and Blagdon. The cost of the by-pass is 2,000 new houses in Banwell.

Another current issue is affordable housing. There is a real need for this for local people. Both Banwell and Churchill have their fair share of new houses – about 300 going up as you read this in Churchill alone, of which a percentage are allocated as affordable.

But would it surprise you to realise that local people do not have priority in the allocation of these affordable homes? It’s a cause of great concern.

“Garden Villages”? They are not garden villages, as described in the JSP documentation. They require specific extra funding to ensure they are built along with the appropriate infrastructure and not in ugly piecemeal developments that simply add to traffic congestion.

There’s no sign of this money in any of the JSP documentation.

Employment is another issue. Where are the plans for any major employment locally that could support a mortgage?

What about sustainable, viable public transport? Where are the plans for this in the Churchill/Banwell area? And what about the incredible environmental impact – good agricultural land destroyed forever along with village life.

Undeterred, all these issues have been ignored and risk destroying our countryside – one of North Somerset’s greatest assets.

Countryside Warrior

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 67

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MENDIP TIMES

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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PROPERTY

Dilly Meadows, West Harptree, Bristol

DILLY Meadows, West Harptree is in the heart of Chew Valley only 13 miles from Bristol, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, protected from planned flight path and road expansions, boasting excellent road links to Bristol, Bath & Wells.

Rebalance your life with the great outdoors on your doorstep; sailing, cycling, walking, as well as an abundance of pubs and restaurants. Work from home efficiently with Fibre broadband connections.

The area offers excellent schools, West Harptree’s village amenities include; Doctors Surgery, dentist, Village shop/Bakery and Post Office.

Dilly Meadows is a small exclusive development of 18 individually designed homes. Each of the unique properties design features include; modern open living space,

maximisation of natural light, strong visual connections to the surrounding countryside whilst combining traditional elements in keeping with its setting.

PLOTS AVAILABLE: Plot 3: The Alderney – 3 Bedroom Terrace, £450,000. Double height galleried entrance Hallway. Open plan Kitchen Dining space. Help to Buy backed by HM Government. EPC: B Plot 10: The Galloway – 4 Bedroom Detached, £650,000. Master bedroom with large balcony: views of open countryside. Paddock available.

EPC: B Plot 1: Leacroft House – 4 Bedroom Detached, £695,000. Open plan Kitchen Dining space, separate Lounge and Master with vaulted ceiling. EPC: C Plot 6: Pembroke – 4 Bedroom Detached, £760,000. Open plan Kitchen Dining space and separate Lounge. Uninterrupted views of open countryside. Paddock available. EPC: B Plot 8: Belmont – 4 Bedroom semi-detached, 2667ft², £730,000. Open plan Kitchen Dining space, separate Lounge and large study. Views of open countryside. EPC: B

All properties benefit from a 10 Year New Home LABC Warranty

Please contact our sales team on 01761 490092 or Carly@whitecroftdevelopments.co to arrange a viewing sales@whitecroftdevelopments.co

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 69

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MENDIP TIMES

W

W

NE

W

NE

Churchil Green, North Somerset Guide Price £1,350.000

Splendid detached house in three acres on village edge with country views. Refurbished to an exacting standard in last five years: 5 double bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, kitchen and snug, two cloakrooms, en suites. Separate DETACHED BARN CONVERSION. Private drive to Triple garaging, tennis court, large level gardens and paddock. EPC: C. Ref: 24526

W

NE

Chew Stoke, Chew Valley Guide Price £825,000

A period village house with 1.4 acres! First time on market for 50 years.Occupying an elevated edge of village location with country views, large garden, private drives and paddock/orchard. Character and extended accommodation of five double bedrooms, bathroom, dressing room and en suite. Three principal reception rooms, kitchen and utility, two cloakrooms, en suite and bathroom. Cellarage and outbuildings.EPC: F.

We’ve got it covered

NE

Loxton, Somerset Guide Price £799,950

A superb detached period house with two bed annexe and 2 bed detached holiday cottage combining family with business opportunity! Large south facing gardens and a wealth of period features. Five bedrooms, two en suite, three principal reception rooms. Rural location on south side of Mendip Hills: EPC: exempt (listed). Ref; 25569

West Hewish, North Somerset Guide Price £595,000

A quality detached house in cottage style offering spacious four bedroom accom. Three reception rooms, open plan kitchen with Aga, en suites, cloakroom and utility. Landscaped gardens, two drives, detached double garage with contemporary flat over. EPC: B Ref: 23838

Contact the Wrington Office: 01934 864307

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

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CLANDOWN CLEEVE CLUTTON COCKLAKE COLEFORD COMPTON DANDO COMPTON DUNDON COMPTON MARTIN CONGRESBURY COXLEY CRANMORE CROSCOMBE CROSS DITCHEAT DOULTING DRAYCOTT DUNDRY EAST HARPTREE EASTON EAST PENNARD EMBOROUGH EVERCREECH FARMBOROUGH FARRINGTON GURNEY FAULKLAND FELTON FROME GLASTONBURY GREEN ORE GURNEY SLADE HALLATROW HIGH LITTLETON HINTON BLEWETT

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

HOLCOMBE HUNSTRETE HUTTON KEINTON MANDEVILLE KILMERSDON LANGFORD LEIGH on MENDIP LITTON LONG ASHTON LYDFORD ON FOSSE LYMPSHAM MARK MARKSBURY MASBURY MELLS MIDSOMER NORTON NAILSEA NETTLEBRIDGE NORTON MALREWARD NORTON ST PHILIP NUNNEY NYLAND OAKHILL PAULTON PENSFORD PILTON POLSHAM PRIDDY PYLLE RADSTOCK REDHILL REGIL RICKFORD

RODE RODNEY STOKE ROOKSBRIDGE ROWBERROW SANDFORD SHEPTON MALLET SHIPHAM SOMERTON STANTON DREW STANTON WICK STOKE ST MICHAEL STON EASTON STONE ALLERTON STRATTON ON THE FOSSE STREET

TARNOCK TEMPLE CLOUD TIMSBURY TRUDOXHILL TYTHERINGTON UBLEY UPHILL VOBSTER WALTON WANSTROW WEARE WEDMORE WELLOW WELLS WEST HARPTREE

WEST PENNARD WESTBURY SUB MENDIP WHITCHURCH WINFORD WINSCOMBE WITHAM FRIARY WOOKEY WOOKEY HOLE WRINGTON WRITHLINGTON YATTON

Property section.qxp_Layout 1 18/04/2019 15:57 Page 71

How to impress potential buyers KILLENS handle the sale of many equestrian properties ranging from equestrian centres to country houses with stables and land to single paddocks. Tom Killen looks at how to show your equestrian property off to prospective buyers.

Whatever your property, preparing it for sale is really important and expecting potential purchasers to view and buy with little preparation can result in fewer, lower offers or even scupper a sale altogether. So in offering an equestrian property, what needs to be considered to give that great first impression: 1. The drive People first see your home from the outside, so improving the approach is a key step to be taken as soon as you decide to sell. New gravel can really lift a property.

2. The paddocks Tidying up and removing the muck from the paddocks can make a huge difference for little effort. A morning with a strimmer

or a topper can dramatically change the appearance of paddocks. Careful consideration needs to be given to replacing sorry-looking fencing as it can deter buyers but investing vast sums may not be recovered as tastes vary wildly.

3. The yard Any stable yard should be swept and tidy, with tools and clutter stored away.

4. The stables To make the stables look their best, a paint job can really freshen up timber buildings.

Paint chipping off doors or rotting stable doors can cause alarm to a buyer thinking of future costs.

Obviously, keep stables tidy with clean beds and a small touch can be having full hay nets for stabled horses during a viewing — not only does it keep the horses quiet but gives a settled impression.

5. The arena Similarly, if you have an arena, you should ensure it is in good condition. Harrow it, keep it muck-free and make it inviting.

PROPERTY 6. The horses All the elements of the property may look great but if the horses look in bad shape then this can give a bad impression for buyers. Horses need to look well and should be kept in the stables during a viewing.

7. Pets Whilst most people are good with dogs, it is always a good idea to keep pets out of the way.

8. The house Although most equestrian buyers tend to be more interested in the yard than in the house, a few measures can also help make your interiors more attractive and pave the way to a quicker sale. Declutter and paint rooms in a neutral colour as this can actually give a greater feeling of space.

Finally, equestrian properties need careful marketing with careful attention to showing them off at their best. The impression needs to be created of wellmaintained but active properties.

Killens can advise you on the best approach to take and what needs to be considered. Contact the Ston Easton office of Killens on 01761 241127 for a free appraisal of your property

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 71

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MENDIP TIMES

Mendip magic pulls in the crowds SPRING sunshine and good racing attracted a bumper crowd to the annual Mendip Farmers’ Point-to-Point meeting at Ston Easton.

The day began with a fun donkey derby but was not without controversy when the last of the day’s six main races was declared void on safety grounds after a fence was damaged by a horse going wide. Organisers say they are looking at ways to improve the layout of the course at that point for next year.

However, the team were more than happy with the day. One said: “Thanks to the sunshine, we had a little of the Mendip magic here today.” l See Riding, page 92.

Some of the runners in the second pony race which ended the day’s action

Taylor Fisher, aged 14, on Maesteg Ruth nears the finish line to win the opening pony race The sixth race was abandoned and declared void after a horse damaged the wing of a fence, unseating its jockey

Hannah Lewis, on Watch the Birdie, in action in the The Skinner’s Ladies Open, won by Dry Ol’Party

Member of Burcott Riding for the Disabled Association and friends.

RDA members were selling race cards around the course

A donkey derby opened the meeting; with Adelaide Gamester (in white) riding in aid of the Wilberrry Wonderpony charity PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Piers Plunkett, from Lycetts, with Harvey Barfoot-Saunt, aged 11, winner of the second pony race on Shoot the Stars

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POINT-TO-POINT

Picnic time

Sam Gilbert, who lives in Faulkland, competed a donkey scurry race, won by Will Frost, of Pilton

The team behind the bar ahead of a busy day

The event attracted big crowds

Diana Bellamy, from Tincknells, presents the Allen Perpetual Cup to Gillian Grimwood, owner of Knockan Run, who won the Tincknell Restricted Steeplechase

There was some welcome local success in the Alec Jarrett Open Maiden Race for Earth Leader, owned by Roger Penny, trained by Rose Loxton and ridden by Matt Hampton, who lives near Wellow

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 73

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MENDIP TIMES

Connecting for health

are women less well equipped to deal with hard work? Not in my experience, but recent headlines suggest otherwise.

“Women working longer hours more likely to be depressed,” reports The Guardian, while the Mail Online takes a more divisive line: “Men who work long

By Dr PHIL hours are LeSS likely to suffer depression HAMMOND than women with a similar workload.”

This data came from the UK household Study which is following people living in 40,000 households and information on working hours was collected at the same time as depression symptoms were assessed with a 12-item General health Questionnaire.

In both genders, the factors associated with more depression symptoms were lower educational level, lower household income, having long-term diseases, being a smoker and being dissatisfied with your job.

There were similar levels of depression symptoms among men who worked 55 hours or more a week compared with those working an average week of 35 to 40 hours. But women working longer hours reported slightly higher levels of depression symptoms compared with women working 3540 hours. Both women and men had more depression symptoms if they worked at weekends.

It may be that women do more caring, cooking and cleaning roles around the house and so are even more exhausted by additional working hours than men, who tend not to pick up a toilet brush unless strongly prompted.

But the overriding message is that the tougher your life, the more likely you are to feel depressed. GPs call it “sh*t life syndrome”. Do such lives need medicalising with antidepressants? Or can the UK prescribe more meaningful work with better pay and fewer hours?

Politicians tend to focus on whether people have any work to do at all, rather than whether their work gives them pleasure, security and purpose. We know that people who have more control over their work environment, and more power and status, are happier, healthier and live longer.

The auschwitz survivor, author and psychologist victor Frankl argues that the great task for any person is to find meaning in his or her life. Frankl saw three possible sources for meaning: in work (doing something significant); in love (caring for another person) and in courage in difficult times. and what shields us from anxiety and depression is feeling connected, in a deep and meaningful sense, with family, friends and work colleagues. So get out there and work on building those connections. We are all leaves on the same tree.

Dr Phil is doing two shows at the Edinburgh Fringe and a preview in Bath on July 4th. Details www.drphilhammond.com

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Plop the Raindrop

I have just had the misfortune of living inside a duck for a month. They’re quite attractive and fun – if you don’t mind having slugs for lunch.

Generally you see them paddling serenely across ponds, rivers or lakes, which is how I got swallowed, having been washed down a stream into Blagdon Lake after an april shower. as you know, we water droplets just have to go with the flow. We can’t move on our own, so have no choice about where we end up.

Ducks love sieving through mud to see what they can find to eat, as well as waddling across fields looking for stuff.

They can be disgusting.

When you have cereal for breakfast, you usually swallow a lot of milk with it, right?

When ducks eat anything, more likely than not it’s got a rich coating of gooey mud. It might look like chocolate, but it tastes more like pooh.

I know some people who don’t like chocolate would say they probably both taste the same. I can assure you they don’t.

To escape the muddy mess in the duck’s fat tummy, I moved to its head. Big mistake!

When a duck decides to quack it’s like sitting inside a volcano just before it explodes. Can you imagine that?

My duck was really loud and didn’t stop quacking. It was like a load of fireworks going off one after the other inside a toilet.

It gave me quite a headache. anyway to cut a long story short, after whizzing round her body for a while I ended up inside an egg. I’ve never felt so safe, warm and comfortable in my life. It was like floating serenely in a cloud, but much warmer.

I’ve had previous experience of eggs, but this one was much cosier than being inside a dinosaur egg.

I’d like to be able to tell you that this adventure had a happy ending and that I ended up inside a fluffy duckling, playfully skidding across the lake.

But unfortunately Mr Badger found the nest and gobbled up the eggs for his breakfast. his stomach was like a swamp of poisonous gases. have you ever smelt badger pooh? It is utterly disgusting. I ended up inside that pooh in my hurry to escape.

There are creature that love rolling in badger pooh whenever they can. Do you know what they are? Pet dogs!

Does your dog roll in badger pooh?

Better check I’m not stuck on the back of a piece of your furniture!

Wherever next?

MENDIP GRANDAD

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HEALTH & FAMILY

Music therapy classes begin

Julie Britten will lead the sessions

Free monthly music sessions for people living with dementia and their carers have begun in Shepton Mallet.

Music2Connect is being coordinated by the town’s Inner Wheel club and takes place on the second Friday of each month at the Salvation army hall. experienced music therapist Julie Britten leads the sessions using a variety of instruments and grants from the rotary Club of Shepton Mallet and Mendip Shape Lottery – together with IW fundraising activities – will pay for song books and renting the premises. after the first session, Inner Wheel member Janet Fulford said: “The smiles on everyone's faces made it all worthwhile.”

Douglas joins in on a drum The sessions run from 1.30-3.30pm. For details email: sheptonmalletinnerwheelclub@gmail.com or call 01749 346944.

Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals Theas’ Footcare, Mobile Foot Clinic

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

Mobile: 07849 033 055 email: thea-m-1@hotmail.co.uk

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Newly refurbished, spacious bedrooms available

• Headed by an experienced Home Manager with dedicated Care Team • We offer permanent and respite nursing and residential care within picturesque gardens and surroundings • Daily activities program including movement and art-work • Home cooked food and cakes – special dietary requirements catered for

For further information or viewing please call us on 01761 241626 or email: admin@clarehallnursinghome.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 75

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MENDIP TIMES

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 and outstanding for Care

The Manager – Chris Dando • 01934 742131 • chriscourthouse@gmail.com Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

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HEALTH & FAMILY

Volunteers needed

WINSCOMBe hall Care Centre is looking for greenfingered volunteers to help create a sensory and nostalgic garden in the original stable's courtyard for residents who are living with dementia.

They are also looking for volunteers who could donate some time to chat to their residents, who have a broad range of interests from canal boating, trains, gardening, wildlife and dress-making to name but a few! reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel costs, will be reimbursed. all volunteers need a DBS certificate, but this this will be applied for by Winscombe hall.

Details: Annie 01934 843553 email annie.cowell@cedarscaregroup.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 77

MENDIP TIMES

Exploring G.B. Cave UNTIL the extension of Charterhouse Cave between 2008 and 2013, the nearby G.B. Cave was the longest cave in the Charterhouse area, at 2,000 metres. The With PHILIP two caves lie south of HENDY Black Down and have been formed by streams originating on the hill above.

To the east, other streams disappear into Longwood Swallet and Manor Farm Swallet.

Despite its longer, highly decorated neighbour, G.B. Cave remains popular with cavers of all levels of ability, although the Charterhouse Caving Company, which controls access on behalf of Somerset Wildlife Trust, prohibits novices from entering the cave, due to the difficulty of some sections and the vulnerability of certain formations.

Basically, the cave is a long steep stream passage, which includes the high wide Gorge some seven metres wide and up to 12 metres high. At the Bridge, a natural arch of stalagmite-cemented boulders, the passage opens out into Main Chamber, with its steep boulder-strewn floor.

This chamber is 20 metres wide and 23 metres high, with large stalactites suspended in the roof. After 122 metres, the stream drops over a 12-metre waterfall, which can be freeclimbed to where the passage gradually reduces in size, to end in a muddy choke.

Pillar in Great Chamber

The Gorge

Near this point a side passage was noticed at roof level on the right and on climbing up, a short choked passage was found. This was called the Ladder Dig, although the ladder has long since gone and cavers must now climb up using a flexible electron ladder.

The passage was dug and in 1961 Helictite Grotto was found, beyond which a climb up through loose boulders led in 1966 to the discovery of Great Chamber. This is around 40 metres across, and the roof is 12 metres high. At the lowest point is the 2.5 metre Broken Pillar, fractured when the boulders on which it is formed settled many years ago.

Interest in the area began in 1920, when members of the University of Bristol Speleological Society dug in the large Tyning’s Great Swallet. Over many years the site was deepened and some Neolithic material was found, but the dig was finally abandoned in 2008, when it was realised that it lay directly above Charterhouse Cave.

In 1923 the society started digging at two places where streams vanished underground.

One led to the discovery of the short Read’s Grotto, 35 metres long, but the other, Tyning’s Farm Swallet, was abandoned after only 46 metres, when the rift became too tight. It was later found that the water entered G.B. Cave at the Boulder Chamber.

Digging in a nearby depression in 1939 soon opened up a cave passage, which was explored and named G.B. Cave, partly in honour of the discoverers, Goddard and Barker, but also out of patriotism, as WWII had recently begun. The rest of the main cave was discovered and explored the following year and the Ladder Dig series was opened up in the 1960s.

The cave’s popularity is not just due to the size of the passages and chambers. There are plenty of formations, ranging from small convoluted helictites to large stalactites and stalagmites, including one which resembles King George V wearing ceremonial robes.

A common route, once the Bridge is reached, is to cross this feature and traverse a ledge high above the floor of Main Chamber, passing some helictites on the way. To the right, a scramble up a slope of boulders cemented with flowstone leads to White Passage, which continues uphill to near the surface.

Continuing below White Passage, Rift Chamber is reached, then doubling back through the Loop leads to the Hall, where a window opens out onto a slippery climb down

CAVING

into Main Chamber just above the waterfall.

The Hall descends steeply to the Oxbow, and after an eight metre free-climb down a gully, a short wet wriggle and drop takes explorers into the passage below the waterfall, close to the Ladder Dig climb.

The Great Storm and Flood of 1968 opened a new entrance to the cave at the head of the Gorge, the original stream entrance, which has now been blocked. Clumps of vegetation were washed in and for a long time the Gorge was enhanced by pale fronds of bracken, trying in vain to grow in the perpetual darkness.

The Tyning’s Farm Swallet stream enters the Gorge a little farther down and is the usual source of water for the cave. The flood also blocked a route from the Upper Grotto to the Gorge, the Ooze.

In the early days of exploration, attempts were made to extend the cave by excavating the terminal mud choke, but periodic flooding washed spoil back into the dig and it was abandoned.

It was not until Charterhouse Cave was extended that an inlet here was proved to be sourced from the G.B. Cave stream, making this huge cave merely a feeder for the other.

There is no point in trying to physically connect the two.

G.B. Cave, however, remains worth exploring in its own right, with its interesting size, side passages and formations. A visit can be quite strenuous owing to the steepness of the passages and the tricky nature of some of the climbs.

Even picking one’s way among the boulders littering the floor of Main Chamber can be quite tiring, although this does not put off cavers who visit the cave time and time again.

Phil has been caving for more than 50 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and until his retirement was a caving instructor at Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

(Photographs courtesy of Brian Prewer)

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Motoring page.qxp_Layout 1 18/04/2019 16:02 Page 1

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FROME Town Council has submitted a planning application to enable the next phase of Market Place improvements which will aim to address the problem of congestion caused by the current positioning of the bus laybys and will make the Market Place more attractive and pedestrian-friendly.

The main elements include: realignment of the bus laybys so that buses can park off the road; new bus shelters to improve the experience for bus users; enhancement of the existing informal crossing points by installing wider pavements and coloured road surfacing where pedestrians regularly cross now; improving the pavements; a new loading bay outside The George Hotel to support town centre businesses; improvements to the facilities for disabled drivers in Cork Street and a new disabled parking space in the Market Place outside Fat Radish.

The plans follow consultation over a number of years culminating in a public exhibition in November last year which was well attended. Since then, there have been in-depth discussions with several interest groups including Frome Chamber of Commerce, Frome Civic Society, town centre businesses, the disabled (represented by PACE), the police and the bus companies.

The comments received have been considered carefully and the scheme amended to take account of them. Frome Town Council has also worked extensively with Somerset County Council Highways Team to ensure that the scheme is both safe and workable.

Peter Wheelhouse, Economic Development and Regeneration Manager and Deputy Town Clerk at Frome Town Council, said: “In preparing these plans we have taken care to work closely with interested parties and after much consultation we are confident that this scheme will improve both the look and functionality of the Market Place. We are now at the final preparatory stage of this project and look forward to securing planning consent so that we can move quickly to implement these important improvements to the town centre.

“We have already given thought to how we will minimise disruption to town centre users and businesses but will ensure that we re-engage with interested parties well in advance of the start of construction to discuss these arrangements.”

(Ph t

Plans to ease town centre congestion

MOTORING

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Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 79

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MENDIP TIMES MENDIP TIMES

Shedders support school

MEMBERS of Midsomer Norton Men’s Shed have hand-built and delivered very colourful additions to the playground at Hemington Primary School.

The multi-coloured Buddy Bench is part of a scheme to avoid children suffering loneliness and bullying. Any child feeling vulnerable simply sits on the bench and other children are invited to engage and befriend him or her.

Organisers say this not only helps the vulnerable child but also teaches the other pupils social responsibility.

Men’s Shed has been supported in this project by donations of materials by local suppliers Charltons Timber Store and Protek Wood Stain.

Parent, Julie Miller, whose family’s generous donation allowed the benches to be made, said: “This is a fitting memorial in memory of my father who fell in love with the school, when he came to visit with my daughter.”

Hemington School headteacher, Naomi de Chastelain, said: “We are delighted to be the first school in the area to benefit from this collaboration between Men’s Shed Midsomer Norton and local suppliers. We hope that other schools in the area will adopt this scheme.”

Details: Stephen Swift 01761 415364

Hall’s busy schedule

NEWLY reopened Crispin Hall, in Street held its first community lunch in April and will celebrate Somerset Day on Saturday, May 11th.

Doors will open at 9am, offering a children’s art competition, refreshments, a second-hand book sale and Crispin garden group’s annual plant sale.

The hall is also hosting a series of concerts in May showcasing the vast array of local talent that Street has to offer.

It is the first chance to see Crispin Hall in full swing as a concert venue since its £1million refurbishment with seating for up to 160 people. Many of the 12 acts performing over four concerts are community groups and schools.

Entry donation will be split between them, while proceeds from refreshments will support the centre.

The concerts will be held on May 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd.

Doors open 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

Details: www.crispinhall.org.uk

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Rotary cheques

COMMUNITY

Adam Travis with representatives from Axbridge church

THE Rotary Club of Mendip president Adam Travis has presented cheques to two local organisations recently – £1,500 to 1st Wedmore Scout Group for new camping equipment and £1,000 to Axbridge church to improve disabled access to the church room.

Adam Travis hands over a cheque for £1,500 to Kate, one of the scouts

Church sale

The Davis family who had a popular stall

ORGANISERS of a nearly new sale in Compton Dando were very pleased that their sale raised £480 for the village’s St Mary's Church.

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Village clean-up

COMMUNITY

Fair’s success

FARMBOROUGH hall committee built on the success of the now traditional Christmas craft and gift fayre by holding one which focused on Mother’s Day and Easter.

Organiser, Anita Eatherden, said: “The support was brilliant which the stall holders really appreciate. We made in excess of £800 for hall funds which is going towards a hearing loop system and we made £200 for the RUH.” Put October 19th in your diary when they will back with their Christmas Craft & Gift Fayre.

Village fun run

WRINGTON’S annual PTA fun run will be held on Sunday, May 12th. It’s a wonderful event, which has been running since 1982, and captures the spirit of the village as everyone can join in regardless of age!

Buggies are welcome for the smallest participants and all are encouraged to either walk, jog or seriously compete the three-mile circuit. Pre-registration application forms are available from Wrington C of E Primary School or Amors in the village.

Tickets for 18 and over are £4 in advance or £5 on the day; for 17 and under £2.50 in advance or £3.50 on the day; and family tickets are £12 in advance or £13 on the day.

All proceeds go to Wrington C of E Primary school PTA.

A BRIGHT and sunny spring morning in Godney saw a group of 25 villagers get together as part of Keep Britain Tidy's Great Spring Clean Campaign.

Keeping Godney litter free is an ongoing task and it is surprising how far well-known burger chain containers can travel. The event was organised by chairman of the parish council, Michael Gooden, and refreshments were served by his wife, Bridget.

Bench marks centenary

Popular club

PENSFORD Evergreen Club goes from strength to strength and now has over 60 members looking forward to another busy year.

Vince Gill from Radstock, known professionally as Just Vince, was one of the entertainers at the first meeting of the year, together with popular duo Adrian Jay and John Newcombe with their Shadows hits and Pensford singer, Phoebe Ann, who does classics from the 40s and 50s.

Just Vince The club was originally started by a small group of people from the village and has grown ever since. Anyone over the age of 50, living in Pensford and surrounding area can join.

Meetings are every Thursday from 7pm until 9pm, with visitors always being very welcome. The entrance fee is still only £2 for visitors, which includes tea and biscuits.

Details: Janet Smith 01761 490584

CHEDDAR Vale Lions Club president, Marion Adcock, handed over one of their centennial benches to parish council chair, Peter Colton.

The bench is situated in the middle of the village opposite Tesco’s. Peter Colton said he appreciated all the hard work done by the Lions in supporting the community and thanked them for their kind donation.

Another bench will be installed in Wedmore’s new play area shortly. l The club’s annual duck races will be held in Cheddar Gorge on Monday, May 27th, with the first race at 2pm. All proceeds are going to Children’s Hospice South West and local Lions charities. Would you like the Lions to take their coconut shy, pig racing or candy floss machine to your fete this summer?

Details: information@cheddarvalelions.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 81

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MENDIP TIMES

Historic schoolroom restored

Asbestos removed

WORK has been going on since 2012 to renovate a Victorian schoolroom that sits in the corner of the churchyard of St Gregory’s Church in Weare.

The plan is to transform the tired Grade 2 listed parish room into a vibrant space with access for all.

Up until a few years ago it was busy with children’s parties, Mums & Tots, Sunday School, shared meals, quiz nights, socials, exercise classes, weddings, baptisms, funeral parties and was used by various special interest groups.

So far the work has involved the removal of 88 square metres of old asbestos panels from the upper half of all four walls, exposing old stonework in need of stabilisation, with extensive old paint and limewash.

This allowed specialist contractors safe access to start the restoration of the two original Victorian windows in the south wall. The first has been reinstalled and is looking beautiful.

The second set of iron window panels are in the process of being carefully restored. This involves dealing with badly rusted frames, cracked glass and two casements that won’t open. The first phase of lime plastering the internal walls was done in early January.

In 2018 the project was awarded £10,000 from National Lottery Awards for All fund. Now an appeal has been launched for £3,000 to pay the balance on this work.

The next phase will create a new wide door and two easy gradient paths to give

Foodbank is festival partner

THE Somer Valley Foodbank, set up in 2013, is the official partner for this year’s Peasedown Party in the Park festival.

With more than 100 volunteers collecting and transporting food, helping in distribution centres, and providing support to those who visit, the foodbank is one of the biggest volunteerled projects in Bath and North East Somerset.

This is the second year that the two organisations have teamed up together. Nathan Hartley, festival chairman said: “The Somer Valley Foodbank has done fantastic work over the years to help those who need it the most.

“More than 7,500 food parcels have been given out to people living in Peasedown St John, Radstock, Midsomer Norton, Paulton and the surrounding villages. That’s a lot of people who couldn’t put food on the table and who would have starved otherwise!

“We’re delighted that the Somer Valley Foodbank has accepted the invitation to be our official partner again this year. It makes this year’s festival even more special.”

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Progress so far

access to all and draw up full plans and obtain permissions for an extension, which will include fully accessible toilets, an up-to-date servery and a store.

Once this is built it will allow the existing toilet and servery to be converted into an office/meeting room.

One of those supporting the scheme, Ruth Orriss, said: “Once refurbished, with greatly improved access and facilities, all previous users, and new ones for the 21st century, will be encouraged to use the space to build community, combat loneliness and care for the vulnerable.”

The next fundraising event will be a festival of flowers, with the theme of weddings, to be held in St Gregory’s Church, Weare on June 15th and 16th.

With running costs of £9,000 a year, the foodbank needs regular donations and support to keep the project going. Its chairman, Paul Woodward said: “We still hear of people going hungry who do not know how to get a foodbank voucher.

“People finding themselves in food crisis should approach a professional agency such as Citizen’s Advice, Children’s Services, a health visitor or district nursing teams to name a few.

“Several B&NES services, Curo Housing, Sirona and some schools hold our vouchers. These professionals will also help people to find the long-term help and support they need to get through their crisis.

“All sorts of people find themselves in food crisis, whether it’s because of changes in Universal Credit, redundancy, debt, or even ill health. If you have a referral, we’ll feed you!”

Peasedown Party in the Park is on Saturday, June 8th on Beacon Field, Peasedown St John, 12 noon–7pm.

Details: www.peasedownpartyinthepark.org.uk

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Federation Day

CHILDREN from Priddy and St Lawrence’s in Westburysub-Mendip enjoyed their Federation Day. After enjoying some exciting maths challenges, they ended the day by joining together for their Easter Federation Service at St Lawrence’s Church.

Record grants

COMMUNITY

Proper Mendip

THE Mendip Society organised its inaugural “Mendipity” quiz at the Burrington Inn, a hotly contested test of local and general knowledge. The Barley Rye Choir were winners.

Pictured (l to r) are Sue Ivens, Richard Ivens, Denise Poole, Jennie Burrell and Richard Frost, chairman of the society, with Sue Gearing, who devised most of the questions with husband Peter, and Les Davies, society president, who was quiz master.

Scout at the helm of Discovery

Bristol University interns Lucy Coxon and Sophie Price are helping with the research

QUARTET Community Foundation is asking people to take part in its Vital Signs 2019 survey to say what life is like in their area.

The ten-minute survey is anonymous and participants can nominate a charity to be entered into a prize draw to receive a £250 donation.

The research will be used in their annual Vital Signs report which presents a concise analysis of social needs in the West of England. A very important part of the research for the report is asking local people about their lives and their communities.

Quartet, which covers North Somerset, B&NES, Bristol and South Gloucestershire, distributed a record £3.5million in Details: http://surveymonkey.co.uk/r/YL99V8N and https://quartetcf.org.uk/report/

Scouts on board

WANSDYKE Scouts sent 22 scouts and leaders to the Solent for a weekend experience of big boat sailing, sleeping on board for two nights. Two yachts sailed out of the Hamble River and across the Solent, staying on a marina in Gosport overnight.

The boats, a 60-foot cutter Thermopylae and a 45-foot cutter Discovery are run by The Discovery Project, part of The Scout Association.

The mother of two of the scouts said: “My sons had a fantastic time on the sailing trip. It is an amazing experience for them and one which most people will never have in their lifetime. Thank you so much. Hopefully they will get to do it again.”

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 83

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MENDIP TIMES

New era for libraries

Library services in Castle Cary and Bruton have come under the control of community groups after a successful campaign to save them from closure. The groups will continue to be supported by Somerset County Council’s library services teams.

Meanwhile, Radstock Town Council has launched a new community hub in the existing library building to help maintain the service. The community hub will provide a one-stop information shop for residents and house the town council offices.

Whilst services in Shepton Mallet will remain open, a decision has still to be made over whether the library will remain in its current building in the Market Place or move to the Shape Mendip local government offices.

As Mendip Times was going to press, Street Library was moving from its current building to Street Parish Rooms opposite.

C A S T L E C A RY

Roger Weldhen, chairman of the trustees of the Friends of Castle Cary Community Library, cuts the ribbon to welcome visitors to the building

Kelda Goddard, a pupil at Castle Cary Primary School, won a competition to design a new logo for the library

Coffee, craft and book sale events have been organised by the library friends to support their efforts. For details, email friendscccl@gmail.com or call Chris Fowler on 07813 628447

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

SHEPTON MALLET

A family fun day was held at the library with author readings and other events Best-selling children’s author Jeremy Strong, who used to live in Shepton Mallet, gave a talk at the library

BRUTON

Friends, volunteers and library staff at the opening of the community-run library in Bruton

COMMUNITY

Paulton litter pickers

EIGHT enthusiastic litter pickers cleared areas around Paulton, including Paulton Hill, Bath Road and Radford Hill, collecting countless bags of rubbish.

Organiser Pam Leah said she was delighted by such a good turn-out but disappointed that so much could have been

Community saves its hall

This youngster clearly enjoyed his visit

Matilda Yannaghas prepares to cut a cake to celebrate the start of a new era for the library

HEWISH and Puxton celebrated buying their village hall with a big party. The local community raised money to build the Hall in the 1960s on land then owned by the Wyndham estate.

But the land changed hands and in 2017 it was known that the lease would not be renewed as the land owner wanted to sell the land.

The parish had the opportunity to buy the land and hall for £85,000, which they have done thanks to the generosity of local people and businesses.

Now that the hall is owned by the village there is still money to be raised to renew the roof and refurbish the interior.

Organisers say the party was a great success, hopefully the first of many, and a reminder of the social events that were often held in the past when the hall looked a bit smarter than now.

Details: to book the hall contact Pauline Pearce, 07776 170001 or e-mail dusters1@btinternet.com http://www.hewishandpuxtonvillagehall.org.uk/

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 85

(Photo courtesy of Nick Spratling)

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MENDIP TIMES

Dragons fan the flames

ASPIRING community groups in the Radstock and Westfield areas benefitted from the latest round of a Dragon’s Den-style funding initiative.

The seventh round of the Big Local’s Dragon’s Den awarded up to £500 each to a number of organisations and individuals ranging from Prattens Social Club – which hosted the event – to a new campaign called the Red Box Project North East Somerset aiming to prevent period poverty amongst age-appropriate primary school students.

The “Dragons” were Claire Wynne-Hughes, philanthropy executive from Quartet Community Foundation, Craig Shaw, CEO of Advotec and Becky Brooks, editor of the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Journal.

Radstock Amateur Boxing Club won £500 towards new equipment and to keep subscription costs at an affordable level

Tara, Dan, John and Maggie, from the SWALLOW charity, not only served food to guests but won £500 towards a new chiller for their café

Judges Becky Brooks, Craig Shaw and Claire Wynne-Hughes

Radstock Juniors are planning to take ten young people with a learning disability on a residential trip to help to build selfconfidence. They’re holding a charity cycle ride on Sunday, May 19th

For details about funding, visit: www.radstockwestfield.org.uk

New memory café

RADSTOCK Museum will be starting a new Memory Café on May 17th. Working with people struggling with memory loss and their carers, the museum will be holding a monthly café on the third Friday of each month, 10.30am-12noon.

The café will be relaxed and reassuring, taking place in the railway café surrounded by familiar memorabilia and expertly supported by The Alzheimer's Society.

Various activities, crafts and object-handling of items from the 1940s, '50s and '60s will be on hand to encourage discussion. The museum will be closed to the public at this time to keep the museum calm, quiet and avoid any stress for their visitors.

Voluntary donations would be very welcome but there is no charge.

Details: email events@radstockmuseum.co.uk phone 01761 437722 2-5pm or call in to collect an Information sheet.

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Tina takes over

SHEPTON Mallet Tangent’s AGM was held in early April at The Apple Tree Inn in Glastonbury. New chairperson Tina Edwards is pictured being presented with the chain of office by the outgoing

chairperson Chris Harding.

Tina thanked Chris for her amazing year when the highlight was raising over £2,500 for the Dorothy House Hospice. Tina has chosen the British Heart Foundation as the charity of choice for the forthcoming year.

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COMMUNITY

New community café

Club honours charity night organisers

A NEW community café has opened at Bridge House in Congresbury and will be open on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 8.45 to 1pm, with a view to open more often in the future.

The café is managed by a pool of volunteers providing a range of hot drinks and home-made cakes including glutenfree options.

Ron Hall for Congresbury Village Hall Limited, who have set up the café, is pictured with supporter Debbie Fortune.

SHEPTON Mallet 41 Club president Andrew Liggatt presented “Honours” medals to members Robin Weelen and John Neale.

Over the club’s history of 30 plus years almost without exception they have been the main organisers of the club’s very successful annual ladies night.

Every year everyone looks forward to meet, greet, enjoy the dinner and the dancing that follows, to say nothing of the generosity of everyone present in making the annual raffle such a success raising hundreds of pounds each year for the various president’s nominated charities.

In reply Robin thanked the club members, making the point it was their continuing support over the years that made the job so worthwhile.

Long service award

MARY Bracey of Bishop Sutton has been presented with a long service award from the RNLI. She joined the Chew Valley branch committee in 1996 and has served as treasurer and, latterly, souvenir secretary.

She has also raised thousands of pounds through her Christmas card sales at the branch’s curry lunches each November.

Chairperson, Gillie Slater, presented her with a handsome glass vase and certificate of commendation. The branch’s next event will be Summer Music by the Lake on Friday, Details: tandbgracey@gmail.com

Village’s annual walk

THE sun came out for Compton Dando's annual bluebell walk, which this year was led by churchwarden Ron Walker, with around 40 people, dogs, babies and children taking part.

One of the organisers, Jenny Davies, said: “Although the weather was chilly we all thoroughly enjoyed the walk and the bluebells were lovely. We returned to St Mary’s Church for tea and homemade cake which was most welcome.”

Their weekly summer teas begin again on Sunday, May 26th, 2-5pm and Compton Dando will also be holding and open gardens event on Sunday, June 16th.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 87

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MENDIP TIMES

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MENDIP TIMES

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MENDIP TIMES

HOMES & INTERIORS

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 91

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MENDIP TIMES

HOMES & INTERIORS

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Arts Council grant boost for school theatre project A CONSORTIUM of six Shepton Mallet schools have been successful in securing £14,290 from The Arts Council towards a dynamic programme of work which will bring a host of live performances and events to Shepton Mallet primary schools, playgrounds and the town centre over the next year.

The project, called All the World’s Our Playground, will work across Bowlish Infant School, Shepton Mallet Community Infants’ School, St Paul’s C Junior School, Croscombe Primary School, St Aldhelm’s Primary School and Stoke St Michael Primary School. All the World’s Our Playground, will feature some of the South West’s finest theatre companies for children and young people.

The project marks the next phase of Plays in the Playground which has been developed by Louise LappinCook, director of Make the Sunshine Community Interest Company, and Teresa Gilbert, headteacher at Bowlish Infant School, the lead school.

Teresa said: “Funding towards this programme of work has already received generous support from Shepton Mallet Town Council, Literature Works, Wells Festival of Literature and Mendip Community Fund. In total events will reach 900 students, 2,000 families and parents and a huge number of further audiences at the free public events. We are very excited about the possibilities this programme of work brings for our students and the local community.”

All the World’s Our Playground will culminate in a festival and promenade performance at St Paul’s school in March 2020 which will showcase professional performances alongside students’ own work. Students will have the opportunity to learn about puppetry and shadow puppetry as well as having specialist performing arts training. Students will also be responsible for commissioning the professional companies that will work alongside them.

Wells Festival of Literature who have supported Plays in the Playground since its inception three years ago, said: “We are thrilled to have been able to contribute to the funding and support of ‘Plays in The Playground' established by Louise Lappin-Cook. The participation of local schools has been whole hearted and the performances by theatre groups have educated, enthralled and inspired pupils in equal measure. The inclusion of parents in the project has been extremely valuable. We look forward to continuing our connection with this initiative.”

NEWS

The scene at Bowlish

DITTO Theatre Company wowed young audiences across Shepton Mallet with their brand-new production of Rocket Girl which was seen by six Shepton primary schools.

Families were greeted by the theatre company in the playground in the mornings as they arrived at school and were launched straight into intensive astronaut training for new aspiring recruits.

Made possible by Wells Festival of Literature, Mendip Community Fund and The Arts Council, Ditto Theatre performed to Bowlish Infant School, Shepton Mallet Community Infants School, St Paul’s Junior School, Croscombe Primary School, St Aldhelm’s Primary School and Stoke St Michael Primary School.

Using an amalgamation of storytelling, puppetry and movement with an original score, Ditto Theatre Company invited young students to join them in making the impossible possible as one girl battled to become Rocket Girl!

The cast of Rocket Girl

For details, visit: www.playsintheplayground.com

Guide awards

JESSICA Way is the first Cheddar Guide to achieve the Lions’ Young Leader in Service Gold Award, which was presented during the Axbridge District Guide Service, held at Wedmore Church.

Jessica had completed 206.5 hours of community service in the year, so was well deserving of her award.

Friend of Cheddar Vale Lions, Bev Davies MJF, also received a well-deserved award for 20 years’ service to the Girl Guide Association.

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 93

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MENDIP TIMES

RIDING

A day at the races

MENDIP Race Day! Up early, a car park to attend to (Pete), stories to gather (Rach).

Outside the sun beams down from a glorious blue sky lighting up the cherry blossom.

How does the point-to-point committee order up the perfect day, a hotline to heaven?

With RACHEL Up at the Ston Easton course, beautifully THOMPSON laid out across the high Mendip plateau, cars MBE are already pouring in, laden down with the old folks, children, dogs, chairs and picnic baskets. Sheep farmer Norm is nimbly directing traffic and trying not to get mown down.

I’m supposed to be finding a story, but in the end I just roam around all day yakking. First off are the donkey derby and scurry race. Two out of three of the young contenders lie on the course having parted company with their mounts. The adults in charge hustle to administer hugs and commiserations. Not winning is a great lesson in life.

Drifting into the Riding for the Disabled volunteers’ tent I find Harry and Helena. We settle down for a natter. The Burcott & District group meets at Burcott Riding School who supply the ponies. Volunteers meet on Tuesdays to help children and adults with physical and or/learning difficulties to ride for therapy, achievement and fun.

The day goes so fast, one minute I’m leaning on the paddock rails, consulting my race card for the first race, the Tote busy taking bets behind me. The next I’m at the big screen watching the action out on the course and then at the rails watching the horses galloping for home carrying the hopes of owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms and the betting crowd. It’s all over in a few minutes.

The crowd roars in the winner, the music plays, in the farthest reaches of the course, red-coated volunteers from the Mendip Hunt on horseback round up loose horses who, like naughty children, refuse to be caught.

After watching the hounds parade I select a panini for lunch from a local stall, dodge the jostling crowd at the bar (where the

Not a normal sight in the parade ring before a big race

PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Lining up for the start of one of the donkey races

talk seems to be all about sheep, tractors and shooting), manage to get a beer and pause on a handy straw bale to watch the crowd and runners for the next race walking around the parade ring.

Friends that I haven’t seen for ages come and go, a cheery social whirl of catching up and exchanging views on horses and dogs, the weather, holidays and high days, politics and the dreaded Brexit. This day is not just about racing, it marks the end of a long winter and the beginning of spring, time to be out and about with like-minded Mendip folk. I realise I have been talking so much I have missed local owner (from Litton where I grew up) Roger Penny’s horse win the second race.

At the end of the day after tea and cake in the members tent, where quite possibly I’m not supposed to be, I take a peek at the race lists to check out the names of the winners – Gingili, Earth Leader (who I forgot to bet on and should have), Dry Ol Party, I’m All Set and Knockan Run – amazing names for wonderful horses.

Thank you to them and their connections and to the hardworking committee, stewards, volunteers and providers of food and drink for giving us all another great day on Mendip. l Riding for the Disabled at Burcott welcomes new volunteers.

Email harry.crowley@btinternet.com to offer a hand; it’s fun and rewarding.

The finish post

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Rowing veteran retires

Erin makes a splash in Glasgow

SPORT

The Portishead team with Andy (front right)

AFTER competing for the past five years in the annual World Pilot Gig Championships in the Isles of Scilly during the May bank holiday, Andy Littler, aged 68, from Pensford, has said this year will be his last.

Originally with the Bristol Gig Club, Andy has rowed with various teams, including twice with the crew from Gloucester in Massachusetts. He has taken part in the Supervets class as well as Men's races. This year will be the 30th year it’s been run.

Andy said: “I will be rowing for Bermuda Pilot Gig Club.

Yes, the Bermuda in the Caribbean. Sadly I won't be rowing in the Caribbean, much as my wife Lesley would like me to be.

“This will be my last attendance at the championships as the entry criteria are changing for next year. I'll be a week short of my 69th birthday on the first race day.”

Indoors or out?

MEMBERS of Isle of Wedmore Bowls Club are hosting an open day on Sunday, May 5th for anyone who would like to try the indoor or outdoor versions of the game.

Bowls and shoes are available for the free taster sessions, running from 10am-4pm. There is no need to book.

For details phone Keith Pettit on 01934 733237 or Sandra Moss on 01934 710699 or visit: www.isleofwedmorebowlsclub.org

Croquet for beginners

IT may have been a bit cold of late, but that did not stop a group of stalwart beginners from enjoying their introduction to the fascinating sport of croquet at Camerton and Peasedown Croquet Club.

The club is offering other trial sessions for beginners during the week and at weekends.

LOCAL triathlete Erin Jeffery of Farrington Gurney won the women’s race as more than 600 hardy competitors braved the icycold waters of Maryhill Locks in Glasgow as Red Bull Neptune Steps returned for the fifth consecutive year.

Erin, representing the Outdoor Swimming Society (7m 5s) powered to victory ahead of last year’s winner Jennifer Davis (7m 24s), who finished second, and 16-year-old Nicole Reynold (7m 38s), who came third.

She came first in a pool of 128 competitors, a record number of female competitors taking to the water to swim, climb and conquer one of the world’s only uphill swimming events in front of 3,000 spectators along the Forth & Clyde canal.

Erin said: “I’m in shock, mainly from the cold though! The final was really tough and I felt the pressure as I knew Jennifer was chasing me down. It felt fantastic to win and it was great to hear the crowd cheering me all the way.”

In a test of physical and mental strength, competitors completed a 420-metre sprint swim, before hoisting themselves over seven canal lock gates using ropes and ladders.

With water temperature dropping as low as eight degrees, the event once again proved its credentials as the UK’s toughest openwater adventure race.

Erin is still an unsponsored amateur athlete and hopes for some support as she approaches the upcoming triathlon season.

Details: Mo Boys 01225 708540 Ros Key Pugh 01225 427525 http://www.camertonpeasedowncroquet.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 95

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MENDIP TIMES

Viva la Mendip FlanRou

I’D been looking for a cycle event to take me somewhere different from my usual rides. There were a few to choose from but one caught my eye more than others – the FlanRou Omloop.

It gets its name and inspiration from the spring classics that take place in Belgium CYCLING and Northern Europe each year – usually with EDMUND in gritty weather over cobbled roads and LODITE rough surfaces.

Starting in Draycott, this circular route takes in the quiet lanes and back roads of the Somerset Levels and ridges of Mendip and Sedgemoor. The combination of countryside, gravelly tracks and quiet lanes promised a similar parcour to the classics.

To be honest I’d never cycled that much on the Somerset Levels. That prospect and the opportunity to capture some of the character from the Flandrian classics meant it was too good a chance to miss.

Entries to FlanRou events are limited and very popular.

The organisers’ approach is different to the larger corporate and sponsored cycling events that can take place. They don’t do timing chips, hand out free energy gels or give you a digital certificate and shiny medal at the end.

Instead they say: “We're about the route, the sport, the terrain, the surroundings, the grub, the coffee stop, the bad company you keep, the flats, the grazed elbow, the banter – but mostly we're about the laughs and larks!”

On the day of the “Omloop”, we headed out in small groups across the Levels and then turned north towards Winscombe to pick off a few hill climbs. In keeping with the nature of the event, the hills were referred to as “bergs”.

The nice climb up “Winsberg” was followed a few miles

PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

later on by the hard climb up “Canaberg”.

Approaching the top, Simon from Bournemouth spotted a photographer ahead and said “that’s a bad sign”. He was right as the gradient suddenly ramped up and my breathing became heavier.

Once over the top, the Roman Road above Bleadon provided spectacular views back across the Levels and forwards towards the Severn Estuary.

After a quick descent it was back on a long flat section into the Levels. Soon there were no cars or any human contact but increasingly more wildlife. The droves and neighbouring drainage channels went in a straight line as far as the eye could see but at each turn they all started to look the same.

The wheels were turning quickly but I didn’t feel as though I was making any progress as the landmarks were now so far away. This was a completely different cycling experience to riding up and down the Mendip Hills.

On reaching the national nature reserves at Shapwick Heath and Westhay Moor, I wished that I knew a little bit more about the different species of birds that I could now see and hear. The Levels may be rich in wildlife but this wasn’t the right moment to fully appreciate it.

In the final section, whoever planned the route had fiendishly thrown in a few short but very sharp “bergs”. The hardest one “Daggsberg” looked like it hadn’t been used by motor vehicles for a long time and looked more suited for a horse and cart!

Recovering from that and then pressing on, the finish came in sight and my legs were in a completely different state to when I had started, 111 km ago, but it had been worth it. The hot food being served in the village hall was very welcome and a good chance to swap stories with other riders.

Some events are just about racing and others are about riding fast and the experience. There is a subtle but wide difference. I’d had a great ride, explored the Levels, met some nice people and also picked up a bit of Belgian on the way.

I didn’t take home a souvenir medal or a photograph of me crossing the finish line but something much better – a little taste of the Belgian Classics on Mendip!

Prison offer is gym’s get out of jail card!

Shepton is a centre for Wildcats

SPORT

Grove House Surgery in Shepton Mallet has presented the girls at Shepton Mallet Sports FC with new kit. Pictured with the players are Perdita Stone (coach and practice nurse at the surgery), Dr Philippa Girling (GP Partner), and coaches Lesley Rowan and Tom Bona

Charlie Lawson, from Jailhouse Tours, with members of the gym club

SHEPTON Mallet Gymnastics Club is celebrating after a frantic search for a temporary summer base for its training sessions ended in success.

The club is to move into the gym at Shepton Mallet Prison from Wednesday, May 15th after the prison operators stepped in with an offer of help. It’s thought to be the first time a British gymnastics club has trained in a prison.

SMGC usually trains at Whitstone School but was forced to look for a short-term base for the summer term because the school space was needed for exams. Club officials feared they would have to cancel plans for gymnasts to compete in regional and national competitions because they had nowhere in which to train.

Shepton Mallet Prison has been operated by Jailhouse Tours for the past two years as a heritage-led tourism attraction. It has also been used by film and television companies as well as for pop videos. Scenes for a new BBC drama series about Christine Keeler and the Profumo Affair, starring Emilia Fox and James Norton, were filmed there in April.

Clare Tanner, the club’s head coach, said: “It’s been an extremely hard start to the year with the search for a place to train.

Our gymnasts’ parents and other locals have been very helpful with my search for our club which I’m greatly thankful for.”

Joel Campbell, the CEO of Jailhouse Tours, said: “When I put in my application to buy the jail in 2014, I always had a vision that the prison would not just be used as a tourist attraction, but could also become home to local clubs, groups and businesses, becoming a central hub for Shepton Mallet. I'm extremely pleased we were in a position to be able to offer Clare and Shepton Mallet Gymnastics Club a home whilst they require it and know this is the next step in developing the future of Shepton Mallet Prison.”

Clare added: “I’m ecstatic that Joel Campbell has been able to give our gymnasts a home and is open to help local clubs like us.

I’m so happy to say we now have a home for our English and South West Tumblers to train as well as our very talented young up and coming gymnasts. Thank you so much ‘Jailhouse Tours’.”

AN SSE Wildcats Girls’ Football Centre is being created in Shepton Mallet as part of a Football Association initiative to encourage girls aged five-11 years-old to take up the sport and meet new friends.

Based at Shepton Mallet Leisure Centre, it joins existing centres in Frome, Street and Wedmore and will be run in conjunction with the Somerset FA. The first session will be held on Saturday, April 27th from 10.30-11.30am on the all-weather pitches.

For details, visit: www.TheFA.com/SSEWildcats or contact Lesley Rowan from Shepton Mallet Sports FC on 07930 115804.

Cameron’s close-call victory

CAMERON Walker had a successful night on the road boxing for Norton Radstock Amateur Boxing Club in Gloucester.

Boxing against a home town boy and in a raucous atmosphere, Cameron knew he had to work hard against a determined skillful opponent in Finley Coach Sean Jenkins with Cameron Booth. With all rounds Walker even going into the last Cameron continued with his sustained pressure and clever defence and was under orders to up the work rate knowing that everything rested on the last round, with a split decision going his way.

He said: “I listened to what my coach told me and thankfully the judges give it to me possibly because of my fitness and work rate.”

Coach Sean Jenkins added: “Cameron was up against it tonight; it was a small intimidating venue with the crowd very noisy supporting their home town club which you'd expect, but Cameron being Cameron he didn’t let it faze him and he went out there and did what he does best.”

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 97

(Photography courtesy of Mike Lang)

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Chew are champions but Norton fight on

Celebration time as Chew win promotion

CHEW Valley RFC were crowned champions of Tribute Western Counties North after a 22-43 defeat of second-placed Midsomer Norton.

The visitors celebrated the 50th anniversary of the club by reaching the highest level of competition in their history.

But all is not over for Midsomer Norton. They secured a play-off promotion place against Crediton – due to be played on Saturday, April 27th and on Wednesday, took on University of Bath RFC in the Somerset Combination Cup Final at The Rec in Bath, but lost 41-29.

The season ended, however, with relegation for Wells who will play in the Tribute Somerset Premier League.

Norton score against the odds

The score that sealed Chew’s place in the next division – Dan Gatton (in green) on his way to the try line for the visitors’ fourth and bonus point try

Chew dominated from the start of the game

Father and son celebrate: Alex and Shane Cameron

STREET-based motorcycle racer Damon Smith has rung the changes for the new championship season.

Damon has replaced his Yamaha R1 for a much newer Kawasaki ZX10R machine to compete once again in the Metzeler/DTR 1300cc Streetstocks Championship for productionbased machines and new for this year the Bluebell Lakes Powerbike Championship for unlimited power machines.

At the North Gloucester Road Racing Championships at Brands Hatch, Damon finished seventh overall for the Streetstock races and ninth overall for the Powerbike Championship. He said: “My best result for the Streetstock races on Saturday was fourth which was a good solid start to the campaign and in the Powerbike Championship a very strong sixth pipping a past champion to the chequered flag by 0.2 seconds.

“A lot has happened behind the scenes during the winter including fitness and weight loss, securing some returning sponsors, welcoming new sponsors, launching the successful Club 23 for individual sponsorship and bike preparation.”

Damon in action at Brands Hatch

To find out more about Damon’s season, find DS Racing Kawasaki #23 page on Facebook and Instagram.

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

(Photo courtesy of Nigel Eddleston-Dike/EDP Photonews)

New season underway for Damon

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SPORT

Mendip Golf Club open day

Success for Writhlington

THE winter just gone was an incredibly successful one for Writhlington Tennis Club’s two league teams playing in the Avon winter mixed league.

Writhlington first team playing in Division 2B were aiming for a successful winter league campaign after being promoted from the late summer league before Christmas.

During the course of the season they were top all season, but due to injuries and lack of availability they found themselves third in the league going into their final game of the season away at Redland Green in Bristol.

They knew they needed to win at least 6-4 in order to finish top and be promoted as champions.

A strong team of Sarah, Alex, Nathan, and new member Luis (pictured) got the job done – as they won a close contest 6-4.

This put them level on points at the top of the league with Bath 1sts. Writhlington should be promoted as champions on head-tohead results because they had beaten Bath home and away. Next season will see Writhlington playing in division 1 (the top division in Avon).

Writhlington 2nd team also had a great season and finished second in division 5B just two points behind Hanham 2nds.

Coming second still means that they will be promoted to play in a higher division next year.

Badminton gold

MENDIP Golf Club invites all beginners, intermediate and experienced golfers of any age to sample their beautiful course, clubhouse facilities and professional shop with a simulator studio for coaching at an open day, Monday, May 7th, 10am4pm.

Mendip is a downland course with extensive views over seven counties and is one of Somerset’s finest, with freedraining slopes it provides great conditions all the year round.

There will be a free coaching session with PGA fellow professional Stuart Disney, an opportunity to play nine holes with a member, a juniors coaching area and a chipping and putting competition. A special membership opportunity will be available on the day.

It’s a chance to meet their friendly bar and catering staff, who will be running a BBQ. The club is situated off the A37 at Gurney Slade, four miles north of Shepton Mallet.

Details: www.mendipgolfclub.com email secretary@mendipgolfclub.com or proshop@mendipgolfclub.com 01749 840793 or Facebook f:@MendipGC

● A warm welcome is extended to beginners and existing golfers to sample our scenic course, meet members and enjoy the facilities ● The Club is situated between Gurney Slade and Shepton Mallet off A37 ● Free session with a PGA Fellow Professional ● Practice net and coaching for Juniors

● Play 9 holes with a member and see our unrivalled views over 7 counties ● BBQ and bar

● Putting and chipping competitions

● MEMBERSHIP OFFER AVAILABLE ON THE DAY

THESE ladies are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Wells Monday night badminton club, at the Fountain Inn, Wells. Some of the founder members attended and several have been playing continuously for 40-50 years.

They have found it a great way to keep fit, and keep up their friendship. They all wore something gold and exchanged "golden" presents during a fun evening.

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Ukulele fans hit all the right notes FROME’S first ukulele festival exceeded all expectations, say organisers, with players, instrument makers and audiences travelling from across the south west for a day of music and fun.

The festival was the idea of the Frome Ukulele Club and was centred on Rook Lane Chapel but spread out to other venues across town for workshops, get-togethers, a battle-of-the-bands contest and performances including a headlining show by Frome’s own ukulele band The Frukes.

The day raised funds for Fair Frome and the Frome’s Missing Links project.

Libby James, aged 15, sang and played during an open mic session at Rook Lane Chapel

Andy Dan with children Owen and Chloe on stage in the Rook Lane Chapel

Member of the Weymouth Ukuleleans head for the Battle of the Bands event

A blues workshop led by Roger Southard underway upstairs in The Three Swans

The Decades opened the festival

Open mic compere Carl Sutterby, best known for being in semi-acoustic punk band The Raggedy Men

PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

Paul Burnage

Taking the biscuit: tinkuleles on sale during the festival

Choir prepares for summer

VALLEY Voices Junior Choir is welcoming newcomers to its ranks with an exciting line-up of concerts arranged for the summer. Its aim is to show the fun, sense of achievement and pride a group can create through singing.

The big work that they will be tackling for the summer concerts is Captain Noah and His Floating Zoo, which is a light-hearted and witty telling of the bible story by Michael Flanders and with music by Joseph Horovitz.

The practices are held at the back of St Andrew’s Church, Blagdon, from 6-6.30pm on Thursday evenings during term time. There will also be three, much longer practices at Noah’s Ark Zoo, one of the venues for the performances, one in the Easter holidays and two during the May half term.

The leader is Rachel Branston, a highly experienced choir leader and teacher. Rachel has already had requests from teenagers and, with a few more, would be happy to put together a group of older youngsters.

Rachel also runs a community choir for adults on Thursdays, with rehearsals straight after the children's choir – 7.15-8.30pm at St Andrew’s.

MUSIC & THEATRE

Clash of the Choirs VI

ANOTHER great evening of fun and singing at St. Mary's, Wedmore brought together 190 singers from ten different groups and choirs, a completely arbitrary "Clapometer" and an audience of 200.

The Friends of St. Mary's Wedmore offered a big thank you to the singers, musical directors and accompanists of The Blackford Singers, Glastonbury Male Voice Choir, Cheddar First School Singers, The Axbridge Singers, Wedmore First School Academy Ukuele Singers, The Blue-Belles, Burnham & Highbridge Choral Society, Street Men's Choir, Cheddar Valley Adult Voices and The Tally-Ho Trio.

Details: Rachel Branston rachel.branston@gmail.com

Successful concert

ROTARY Nailsea and Backwell once again sponsored a concert by the Lions Brass 4 Youth orchestra at Nailsea School.

The performers represent North Somerset’s County Youth Brass Band which is open to young people aged 11 to 21. Formed in 2008 and based at Clevedon, there are now some 80 youngsters with an average age of 15 involved in five bands.

Under the leadership of their conductor, Dave Hollister, the senior band produced their usual professional performance with a wide repertoire expertly delivering well known and loved pieces.

Over £1,200 was raised on the evening, half of which goes to the band towards the purchase of quality instruments and half to Rotary’s trust fund for future expenditure helping young people to develop their life skills.

Details: 01275 462082

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(Photo courtesy of Louis Smith)

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More men needed

CHEDDAR Male Choir are looking for new members and are holding two taster evenings on Tuesdays, May 7th and 14th at Axbridge Church, from 7.30pm.

They urge men to go along and listen or join in just so they can see how much fun it is to sing in the choir.

Details: www.cheddarmvchoir.co.uk

Marta’s homecoming concert

(Photo courtesy of Victoria Gadisch)

Homecoming time for Marta

INTERNATIONALLY-acclaimed opera singer Marta FontanalsSimmons will be returning to her childhood home of Castle Cary to perform at a charity concert in May. Marta, a mezzo soprano whose current season includes performances at Glyndeborne and a lead role at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, will join Castle Cary Choir on Friday, May 24th at the town’s Methodist Church.

The concert is being held to raise funds towards the provision of a lift at the church.

Marta trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where she was awarded the Gold Medal. l The concert begins at 7.30pm at the church in Upper High Street. It is a ticket-only event. For tickets (£10), contact choir members or call John on 07970 039007.

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Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – we love you!

Truly scrumptious: some of the cast of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang with the replica car

A REPLICA car from the hit film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang took pride of place outside Frome’s Memorial Theatre when the box office opened for Frome Musical Theatre Company’s forthcoming show based on the 1968 blockbuster.

The show runs from Tuesday, May 7th until Sunday, May 12th at 7pm and with matinees at 2pm on the Saturday and Sunday.

For details, visit: www.fmt.website

Hot fuzzy fun

WHAT do a vicar, some petty crooks, the lovely ladies of the Women's Institute, several police from the hit film Hot Fuzz, an assortment of upstanding pillars of the community, a drunk and a "hoodie" all have in common?

Answer – in the very reliable hands of the Sutton Theatre Company stalwarts, they make up the cast of "Hot Fuzzy Calendar Girls”.

Set in the village of Bishop Sutton, this is a very British comedy crime caper, taking the very best elements of Hot Fuzz and blending them with the saucy exploits of the local “ladeez” of the WI, as they set about planning a bare-all calendar!

Tickets are available for May 10th, 11th and 17th.

Details: 01761 452544.

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MUSIC & THEATRE

It’s a tie for town’s buskers Photos by Mark Adler

THE streets of Frome were alive with music when the town hosted its second annual busking competition.

Seven acts – all aged under 25 – performed in rotation around the town centre at spots including Boyle Cross, Cheap Street and Catherine Hill. The day was organised by Frome Town Council.

Judges – musician and Frome town councillor Al O’Kane, bass player for The The, James Eller, and drummer Chris Whitten who has toured with Paul McCartney and Dire Straits – were so impressed they awarded two of the performers, Ben Hutcheson and James Harriman, joint first place.

Joint winner: Ben Hutcheson on the streets of Frome

James Harriman in Cheap Street was also awarded joint first place

Benjamin Hardy-Phillips took second place

The Wolf Family – Amay and Seren are not related, but friends – made their busking debut aged just 11

Clare Krige performed in front of an audience for the first time

Jake McGregor in the Westway Precinct

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Top quartet in Cheddar

CHEDDAR Valley Music Club, part of Somerset Music, based in the Kings of Wessex Academy is hosting the international trombone quartet Bones Apart on Wednesday, May 15th.

There will be workshops for bass brass players (baritone, euphonium, trombone and tuba players) with members of the quartet in the afternoon and some of the items from the workshops will be included in the performance in the evening.

Members of the group are top professional trombone players.

Helen Vollam is now principal trombone of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Becky Smith is principal trombone with English National Opera, Jayne Murrill and Sarah Williams are top freelance players and musical directors.

The quartet have visited Kings on previous occasions and both times it was a dazzling and sparkling evening of outstanding trombone playing showing great musicianship and dexterity. This is a rare opportunity to hear an outstanding quartet.

The concert takes place in the Kings Theatre Cheddar at 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 and £7 for concessions.

Indian masters in Glastonbury

A CONCERT at Glastonbury Town Hall on Wednesday, May 29th will feature India’s pioneer of Hindustani slide guitar Debashish Bhattacharya, Songlines award nominated vocalist Anandi Bhattacharya and legendary tabla player Tanmoy Bose.

The Asian Arts Agency, which has organised the tour, says: “This is an exciting opportunity for audiences in Glastonbury and surrounding areas to experience some of the world’s best Indian classical musicians.”

The agency is a registered charity that supports South Asian music and aims to bring world class artists to audiences and communities like Glastonbury.

Details: https://debashish.eventbrite.co.uk/

Tenors wanted

Singing together

SINGERS from Wells and surrounding areas are being invited to the annual Come & Sing Day with Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society on Saturday, May 4th.

This year the popular chosen piece is Morten Lauridsen's spiritual, moving work Lux Aeterna with an informal performance at the end of the day's singing.

It's an opportunity to sing with the choir in a Morten Lauridsen relaxed atmosphere under the direction of Matthew Owens, one of the UK's leading choral conductors.

The event takes place in the Methodist Church, Southover, Wells. Take your own musical scores or hire them on the day.

Details: www.wcos.org.uk come-sing@wcos.org.uk

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SEVERAL singers from across North Somerset are busy preparing for a concert celebrating one of classical music’s most famous families.

Members of Costanzi Consort, a mixed-voice chamber choir, will perform music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and his father, Leopold Mozart, at 7.30pm on Saturday, June 29th at All Saints Church, Weston-super-Mare.

The group’s last concert in March was a sell-out with audience members praising the high standard of singing and complimentary cakes baked by singers in the choir.

The group, conducted by Dr Peter Leech, is currently looking for experienced tenors with good sight-reading ability. Their singers are from across North Somerset including Congresbury, Shipham, Churchill and Burrington.

Details: Tickets and reserved seating are available at www.costanziconsort.org.uk

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Cheddar Valley young musicians

MENDIP Rotary Club’s annual young musician competition has been won by Nina Tyrrell from Axbridge, a student at Kings of Wessex Academy, who has been learning the trumpet for just

Competitors in the Mendip Rotary Young Musician competition

Nina Tyrell

Yarlington festival

under three years.

She is the leader of Cheddar Valley Brass Band and plays with other local ensembles. She has been offered a place from September at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff, to read music.

The competition was held in the Bailey Concert Hall of Sidcot School and judged by local professional musicians Barry Rose and David Cheetham.

In the under-15 age group the winner was ten-year old pianist Yuying Fan, a student at St Michael’s C of E School in Bristol. Second prize went to flautist Ella Hicks-Hurley, a student at Sidcot School.

THE family friendly Yarlington Fringe, a free festival of music, arts and crafts, is back again on the first bank holiday in May, May 3rd–5th.

Yarlington Fringe founder Dave Braybon enjoyed attending the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for many years and thought: “If Edinburgh can put on such a brilliant event, why not have one in Yarlington?”

So the first Yarlington Fringe took place in 2003 and it was such a roaring success that it has been held every other year since. This will be the ninth event.

The weekend opens at the village hall at 6pm on Friday evening with an exhibition of works by established local artists. The exhibition will run all weekend and most exhibits are for sale at very reasonable prices.

Then the field next to the church in the centre of the village hosts a variety of musical acts. Other events include drumming, digital workshop, handbell and stained glass workshops and you can learn ballroom dancing.

The Langport Mummers will perform a traditional play with contemporary twists and not to be missed is the beer and cider festival and the world-famous duck race which

There was an additional award for outstanding musical potential made in memory of 17-year-old Catrine Basil an accomplished musician and former student at Sidcot School who tragically died following an accident in 2003. This was awarded to pianist Hannah Coulton a student at Priory Community School in Worle.

The competition organiser Roger Burdock said: “It is wonderful to know that there is such a wealth of young musical talent in the Cheddar Valley and we hope that this competition will encourage the participants to develop their music skills and encourage others to take part next time.”

takes place in the River Cam. Delicious food and drink will be on offer throughout the weekend – funding the entire event.

Details: www.wcos.org.uk come-sing@wcos.org.uk

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Racecourse’s night of glamour WINCANTON Racecourse has announced trainers’ wives Ciara Fry, Rachael Honeyball and Jade Barber as their 2019 Ladies Night ambassadors.

The meeting takes place on Thursday, May 9th, and the trio will be judging the best dressed ladies during a fun packed evening, which will also include live music post-racing.

Ciara, Rachael and Jade are married to

Harry, Anthony and Jack respectively and they live on the Somerset/Dorset border within a stone’s throw of each other near Beaminster, sharing the same gallops owned by Richard Barber.

Ciara said: “I’m honoured to be one of Wincanton’s Ladies Night ambassadors and it is such a treat to be asked. Ladies nights are always so popular. They are a super way to enjoy an evening at the races, while dressing up for the occasion too, and it’s great to be asked to get involved and help promote a great night out.”

Jade added: “It’s lovely to be able to do this, especially with Rachael and Ciara as we are all such good friends.”

The three are all expert horsewomen too, with both There’ll be plenty of action on the course to enjoy at both the Rachael and Ciara ladies and cheese and cider nights

PAGE 106 • MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019

L to r: Jade Barber, Rachael Honeyball, Ciara Fry

working full time assisting their husbands in the day-to-day running of their racing yards, and riding out four horses every day, while Jade rides out once a day and runs the office.

Ladies night – sponsored by Clarks Village – will be followed on Tuesday, May 14th by a Cheese and Cider Night to coincide with the final meeting of Wincanton’s season.

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Comedy festival gets bigger each year

WHAT’S ON

Nish Kumar at last year’s festival – he’s returning for 2019

WELLS Comedy Festival – now in its fifth year – has announced a new batch of shows for its 2019 festival.

Over the bank holiday weekend of May 24th-26th, six venues across the city will host a “stand-up jamboree”, according to The Guardian newspaper.

The latest announcements from organisers are shows from “Uncle” star and Bafta nominee Nick Helm, “Live at the Apollo’s” Hal Cruttenden, “Dead Ringers” and “Spitting Image” impressionist Jan Ravens, “Upstart Crow’s” Spencer Jones and multi award-winning Radio 4 star Sarah Kendall.

Wells favourite Jarred Christmas will perform both a solo show and his children’s show, The Mighty Kids Beatbox Comedy Show.

I’m a Celeb’s Shappi Meanwhile, extra performances by Khorsandi some of the sell-out acts have also been added to the line-up including Phil Wang, Ed Gamble, Shappi Khorsandi and Rhys James.

Ben Williams, founder and producer of the festival, said: “It’s our fifth anniversary! We’ve been working hard to bring the best comedians in the country to Somerset, and we’re chuffed with the new additions to the lineup.”

(Photograph courtesy of Rosalind Furlong)

Award-winning Sarah Kendall

Tickets for Wells Comedy Festival shows are on sale now from www.wellscomfest.com MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 107

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New attractions at Puxton Park

PUXTON Park is adding four new attractions to the park, after recordbreaking visitor numbers last year.

Managing director, Alistair Mead, said: "After a fantastic year, we are now reinvesting into the park to offer our visitors even more fun activities and attractions.

“In 2018, we invested in one of our most popular attractions, our Towering High Ropes Course. This year we are adding a Jungle Jeeps 4x4 Challenge, a Rock Climbing Wall, an Exotic Reptile Room and a Monkey House.”

Already home to over 50 species of animal, Puxton Family Adventure Park is expanding, with a variety of small monkeys and reptiles, exotic mammals and insects on their way.

A purpose built Crazy Creature & Monkey House is currently being built and will house an array of monkeys, reptiles, exotic mammals and insects.

Details: www.puxton.co.uk

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Calligraphy

“A Way With Words” at Wells and Mendip Museum is a major exhibition celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society.

It will have almost 100 selected pieces of calligraphic and lettering work, in a variety of media, to show the huge range of ways to express words visually and beautifully.

Traditional manuscript painting and gilding can be seen alongside many other techniques, such as writing on metals or glass, work with nibs, brushes and other tools, paints, inks and engraving, linocuts and digitally manipulated images.

The exhibition runs from Wednesday April 10th to Saturday, May 11th. Entry is free.

Folk on the hill

WHAT’S ON

ORGANISERS of Priddy Folk Festival have revealed the names of some of the performers who will be taking to the stage this July. Tickets are now on sale for this year’s festival which takes place from Friday, July 12th to Sunday, July 14th.

Acts range from Mairearad Green and Anna Massie – two of Scotland’s most revered multi-instrumentalists – to local favourites The Drystones and the Bristol-based shanty singers The Harry Browns.

For full details, visit: www.priddyfolk.org

Details: www.clas.co.uk

Tower view

WEDMORE church tower is holding an open day on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6th, from 10am. For £6 you can have one of the best views in Somerset, plus tea and cake!

For safety reasons children under eight won’t be allowed and those over eight will need to be with a responsible adult. Places need to be reserved.

Details: 01934 712877 richardhall2016@gmail.com

Ibiza arrives in Chew Valley

CHEW Valley businessman Ben Gilks and school friend Lottie Bryant are planning a party at Chew Valley Lake raising money for charity.

A similar party in Bristol last year was attended by over 4,500 people. The weekend-long party will be held on Friday May 31st and Saturday, June 1st.

They promise to bring together a host of Bristol DJs playing club classics, live sax, delicious street food, a VIP bar, an eco glitter bar and more, promising “a sophisticated party vibe to kick-off summer”.

The weekend will also raise money for the Bristol-based Eco Stardust Glitter Bar and for the Georgia Bryant Chew Valley Family Trust, set-up by Lottie in memory of her sister Georgia “Porge” who died from leukaemia last year.

Tickets priced at Friday £30; Saturday £35; Weekend £55.

Details: www.ibizanightscm.co.uk

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

Starts Friday 3rd May Starts Friday 10th May Starts Friday 17th May

Starts Friday 24th May

MAY EVENT CINEMA

Tolkien (12A) • A Dog's Journey

Pokémon Detective Pikachu (PG) 3D/2D Pick Of The Litter (PG)

Aladdin • Paw Patrol Mighty Pups (U) Secret Life Of Pets 2 3D/2D • Rocketman (15)

All My Sons (15) 14th 7pm Within The Golden Hour 16th 7.15pm Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake 21st 7.30pm & 22nd 3pm

● Book in person ● Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk ● Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2019 • PAGE 109

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Garden and home show COURT House, Portishead’s historic house and garden, welcomes national and internationally recognised makers and creators for Bloom and Grow, its first garden and home show, being held on Saturday, May 4th and Sunday, May 5th, 10am-4pm.

The medieval and Tudor farmstead nestled in

Portishead’s conservation area has been lovingly brought back to life over a four-year renovation programme.

This summer it’s showing off its newly-planted garden scheme, along with a series of garden and home inspired events, which will have plant sales, talks, a pop-up vintage Home store, Brocante, food, drink and craft and design workshops.

Event organiser, Victoria Saunders, said: “We are so happy to open the gates to the public to see our 'baby' garden, which is newly planted this year and we are excited be able to create our New Bloom and Grow event with so much talent involved.”

They are hosting internationally famous textile designer Adrianna Torres and multi RHS Gold medal winning Tynings Climbers.

Thatchers at Bath & West

Thatchers bar at the Royal Bath & West

THERE’LL be more opportunities than ever before to enjoy a pint of Thatchers at this year’s Royal Bath and West Show. Their popular Thatchers and Butcombe Bar is once again located on Avenue B opposite the main ring in the Sparkford Building and for the first time they will be selling gift packs of their bottled ciders.

Sit back and soak up the atmosphere with entertainment from Mendip Morris and The Polden Ridge Mountain Boys. Alongside the bar will be a sampling area where you can try out Thatchers award-winning Cider Barn range – short run special ciders that showcase different apple varieties and their cider making expertise.

Their VAT 12 Land Rover tasting truck will be located for the first time in the Food and Drink area, where they will be serving their family favourites, Thatchers Gold, Haze and Rosé.

And if you’re visiting the newly-refurbished restaurant at the Bath and West Showground, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of their Somerset orchards adorning the walls, as part of the newly named Thatchers Restaurant and Bar. Emma Pyle, Thatchers events co-ordinator, said: “The Royal Bath and West is always a brilliant showcase for Somerset. It’s full of so many exciting activities, and there’s something for everyone. We’re really looking forward to joining our friends at the show once again this year as headline sponsor and being the cider of choice at this ever popular event.”

Details: www.thatcherscider.co.uk

Straight bats

SHIPHAM Players next production is Outside Edge by Richard Harris, which is set in a cricket pavilion in the 1980s.

It was previously produced in the 1990s as a popular television series which included actors Timothy Spall, Brenda Blethyn and Josie Lawrence.

Roger has enough trouble assembling his cricket team, but the complications he endures are nothing compared to those occurring amongst the team’s various wives and girlfriends.

The production will take place on Friday, June 14th and Saturday, June 15th, 7.30pm at Shipham Village Hall.

Tickets at £10 go on sale on Saturday, May 18th at 10am in the Star Room, Shipham Village Hall and thereafter from Hansfords, The Square, Shipham.

Details: www.shipham players.org.uk

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Chalice Well to host unique Buddhist festival

A UNIQUE nine-day programme offering opportunities to learn and explore the benefits of Buddhist philosophy and practice will take place at the Chalice Well in Glastonbury in June.

Running from Saturday, June 1st until Sunday, June 9th, the festival – Finding the Answers by Losing the Questions – will play host to a group of Tibetan monks who will be demonstrating the creation of a beautiful and intricate sand mandala.

A vibrant and exciting programme will include workshops in mindful weaving, making pottery tea bowls, drawing Buddhist mandalas, beautiful Tibetan calligraphy, carving prayer stones, making a prayer bead necklace, chanting, overtone singing, playing Tibetan bowls for relaxation, Zen Yoga, Haiku writing and mindfulness.

There will be talks and dialogue with Buddhist teachers from the Zen, Tibetan and Thai Forest tradition, a traditional tea

ceremony demonstration, as well as concert performances with Tibetan monks chanting, Mongolian Overtone Singing and Shakuhachi Flute.

A free exhibition of Buddhist art will feature pottery, weaving and calligraphy.

In the middle of the festival there will be free opening of the gardens and an invitation for all to join a 24-hour “Chant for Compassion.”

A spokesperson for the Chalice Well said: “It can sometimes feel that life is moving too fast and not always in the direction that we would choose it to go.

WHAT’S ON

With the busy-ness and challenges that need to be faced in this ever-changing world, it is not surprising that many look for ways and means to slow down and try and find a way back to a more centred and peaceful outlook.

“Buddhism is a philosophy, an approach to mastering thoughts and emotions so that they alone do not dictate and determine the choices and actions we take. Many practice Buddhism as a way of creating ‘space’; space to see more, space to hear more and appreciate life more fully in the present moment.

“It is not a requirement to be ‘Buddhist’ in order to practice Buddhism, indeed many from different faiths and paths have found practising Buddhism useful in everyday life alongside their existing spiritual traditions. The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, says: ‘Do not practice Buddhism to become a better Buddhist, but to become a better whatever-you-already-are’.”

For details and tickets, visit www.chalicewellmanypathsonesourcefestival.org or call The Chalice Well Trust on 01458 831154

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Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. We may not be able to use entries which are too lengthy or submitted as posters or leaflets. Commercial entries cost £25.

Mid-April to mid-May Cameley House Garden open for group bookings, by prior arrangement only. Adults £7.50, children free, teas £2.50, for the NGS. Nr Temple Cloud. To book 01761 451111.

Wednesday April 10th to Saturday, May 11th Wells & Mendip Museum “A Way with Words” exhibition celebrating 25th anniversary of the Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society. Free entry www.clas.co.uk May to August Brewery House, an organic garden, Southstoke, Bath.

Open, by arrangement, for five to 20 visitors for the NGS. Admission £3.50, children free. Cream teas.

Contact John Brooke 01225 833153.

Wednesday April 24th Harptrees History Society talk by Mike Hooper "Victorian Bristol in Slides" 7.30 West Harptree hall BS40 6EB. Details: 01761 221758 or 221941.

Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support open meeting at which members can explain how they cope with sight loss, 1.30pm Backwell WI Hall.

Contact Sheila 01275 462107.

Weston-s-Mare Music Appreciation Society 7.30pm St Jude's Hall St Peter's Church, Baytree Road, BS22 8HG. Details: simonrawlings9@gmail.com or Dianne 01934 814752.

Thursday April 25th Social table tennis all abilities 7.15pm Compton Dando village hall, £3pp. Details: Richard 07968 269841.

Mendip Ramblers mod 6m Gurney Slade Bottom.

Start 10am Oakhill village hall BA3 5AN, ST633475.

Details: Gus 01749 840349 / 07840 926769.

Charnwood Voices of Loughborough, free concert, 67pm All Saints Church, Weston-s-Mare. Retiring collection for the choir and the church.

Friday, April 26th Chew Valley Spoken Word: local performers celebrating poetry, story, music & song 7.30pm Chew Magna Baptist Chapel, BS40 8SP chewvalleyspokenword@gmail.com Frome Memorial Theatre presents "Psychic Sally 10th Anniversary Tour" 7.30pm. Tickets £24: 01373 462795 www.fmt.website Saturday April 27th Giant Jumble Sale 10am-12 Conygre Hall, Timsbury BA2 0JQ. Donations from 8am-10 please. Admission 30p. Organised by St. Mary's Church. Refreshments.

Cheddar Vale Lions Spring Craft Fair 10am-2pm Cheddar village hall. Refreshments. Entry forms for crafters from www.cheddarvalelions.org.uk Yatton Music Society hosts Yulia Chaplina, Russian pianist, 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church. Tickets £10, (Members £8) www.yms.org.uk Mendip Society walk from Compton Dando, mod 5m. Meet 2pm village hall BS39 4JZ. Details: Roger 01225 872777.

Jumble Sale 2.30pm Binegar village hall, BA3 4TR. Fundraising for the hall & Riding for the Disabled.

Castle Cary Gardening Association Plant Sale 8am-12 Market House. Stalls include Tools for Self-Reliance & Cary Beekeepers.

Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws, dvds, cds, talking books.

Styles of Somerset, free Street art & DJs 11am 10pm Glastonbury Skate Park BA6 9NU facebook.com/stylesofsomerset/ Jumble Sale 10.30am Brent Knoll Parish Hall.

Donations Friday from 6pm or Sat from 9am. To collect: 01278 760451.

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Saturday April 27th and Sunday April 28th Chew Stoke Bowling Club Open Days 10.30am6pm, BS40 8XN. Stalls, cream teas. Try your hand at bowls, equipment provided. Contact: martynjo.edmunds@gmail.com 01275 474729.

Sunday April 28th Mendip Ramblers mod. 12m Upper Coxley to Wookey Hole. Start 10am Ash Lane, Wells BA5 2LR, ST544463 where W Mendip Way crosses. Details: Gus 01749 840349 / 07840 926769.

Monday April 29th "The Later Avon Valley Copper & Brass Industry" talk by Tony Coverdale for Wessex Stationary Engine Club 8pm Old Down Inn, Emborough BA3 4SA. Green Gardeners: Hedgerow Medicine by Helen Kearney, medicinal herb farmer. Parish Rooms Somerton 7.30, visitors welcome £3.

Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Bingo evening 8pm. Non-members very welcome.

Mendip Folk Dance Club 8-10pm, St James Church Hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. All welcome £3pp.

Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Wednesday May 1st Art on the Edge 7pm St Barnabas Church, Claverham BS49 4PA. Talk by local artists & create your own art. Refreshments. Free, donations welcome. Details: Rev Nigel 01934 283340.

“Street in Song” the first of four concerts during May showcasing 12 local acts at the newly refurbished Crispin Community Centre in Street: www.crispinhall.org.uk “Wildlife & Flora Photography” by Mary Pears, monthly meeting of Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers & ex-Carers 2-3.30pm, WI Hall Backwell.

Thursday May 2nd Mendip Ramblers mod. 6m Black Down. Start 10am Burrington Combe nr the inn, not in pub car park BS40 7AT, ST477590. Details: Margaret 01761 232042 / 07910 873853.

Friday May 3rd to Sunday May 12th North Somerset Arts Week, over 200 artists at 45 venues across the area. Details: northsomersetarts.org Friday May 3rd Memories Over Elevenses – cuppa and trip down memory lane. Come and reminisce at Radstock Museum, 10.30-12, £3.

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s production of Beauty & the Beast. Evening Charity Theatre trip to Bristol Hippodrome. To book & for details of future events: Chris 01458 273085. www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk Shared Reading groups every Friday. Join in, or just drop in to relax with a coffee & enjoy listening.

Glastonbury library 10.30am-12; Wells library 11am 12.30. Details: 0151 7292200.

Open Mic Night Redhill Club, BS40 5SG. 8-11pm.

Hosted by Jerry Blythe: 07900 587646.

Cider & Cheese Fayre presents: Pop-up comedy night with Jarred Christmas. Fundraiser for Valley Arts. Age 16+. £15pp. 7.30pm. Ring O’Bells, Compton Martin BS40 6JE www.popupcomedy.org Saturday May 4th Cakes & Plants Sale Chapel Allerton Church with Somerset Wildlife Trust 10am-4pm. Lots of plants; also preserves, produce, coffee, books, kids miniscavenger hunt.

Cam Valley Arts Spring Exhibition Conygre Hall Timsbury BA2 0JQ 11am-5pm, free entry. www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk Made in Somerset artisan show, 10am-4pm ACEarts and Parish Rooms, Somerton, 35 stalls celebrating five years, raising funds for Etatu, local charity supporting education in Kenya.

Mendip Society walk from Blagdon. Mod 6m. Meet 2pm north end Blagdon lake dam, BS40 7UN. Details: Richard 01275 852786.

Evercreech Show Society Spring plant sale 9am-12, village hall. Refreshments, raffle, mini market. Please bring donated plants cakes etc Friday 3rd May at 6pm.

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Kingston Seymour Market 10am-12 village hall.

Fairtrade goods, cakes, crafts & more. Tables £2.

Details: 01934 830553.

Congresbury Gardening Club Plant Sale, 10am-12 Methodist Hall.

Somerset Wildlife Trust Plant Sale Market Place, Castle Cary 9-4.

Children’s dance classes 9.30-1pm every Sat, Hewish & Puxton village hall. Carlea Theatre Arts 07534 242 119.

Plant & Garden Jumble Sale organised by Winscombe RNLI, 10am Community Centre, many plants, tools, garden furniture, pots. Contact 01934842304 or meejlfh@gmail.com Chilcompton Garden Club Plant Fair 10am-11.30, village hall.

Trinity Singers Plant & Cake Sale 10am-12, St Mary's Church, Langford. £1 admission incl tea/coffee, children free.

Saturday May 4th to Sunday May 5th Exhibition of water colours by Violet Graham, Holy Trinity Church, Burrington, refreshments, 10.30am4.30pm.

Court House Farm and Garden, Portishead Bloom and Grow, 10am-4pm, entrance £5. Details: www.courthousefarm.com Sunday May 5th Brahms & Bartok Chamber music, Wells Cathedral School String Quartet, 3-5pm St Mary's Church Timsbury. Tickets £7.50 from 01761 471318 or 479506 or on the door.

Mendip Ramblers mod 11.5m Beaminster circle.

Start 10am Yarn Barton cp, not town square parking, DT8 3DR, ST481014. Details: Laurence & Barbara 07568 584994.

Social table tennis all abilities 2.30pm Compton Dando village hall £3pp. Details: Richard 07968 269841.

Macmillan quiz 7.30pm Britannia Inn, Wells. Teams of up to 6, £5pp. Please book: Terry 01749 672342.

Raffle prizes welcome.

Pageant Presentations, 3pm & 6pm Axbridge Town Hall. Hear about past pageants and take part in the next one in 2020.

Bank Holiday Monday May 6th Claverham Village Hall Fete: fancy dress, maypole, bouncy castle, dog show & BBQ. Free, everyone welcome! To book a stall: brenda.smith47@hotmail.co.uk Mendip Ramblers leisurely 3.8m cup of tea walk Wedmore. Start 1.30pm Cheddar Rd free CP, Wedmore BS28 4EJ, ST437481. Contact: Mary: 01749 342285 / 07951 467453.

Wedmore Church Tower Open from 10am. £6 incl tea & cake. No children under 8. Age 8 and over only with adult. Reservations: 01934 712877 or richardghall2016@gmail.com Great Pilton Jumble Trail 11am. Over 20 stalls.

Park at village playing fields. Supporting Children’s World Glastonbury. Details John 07748 353919.

North Somerset Show, Wraxall. See page 12.

Tuesday May 7th Cheddar Male Choir want new members. Taster evening 7.30 – 9.30pm St John the Baptist Church, Axbridge www.cheddarmvchoir.co.uk Somerset Wildlife Trust talk: 'India – More Than Just Tigers' 8pm Caryford Hall, Ansford BA7 7JJ. Refreshments from 7.30pm. Entrance £3.

Clevedon Art Club with Ros Ford, painter & printmaker. 7.30pm Sixth Form Centre Clevedon School BS21 6AH. Non-members £3.

Handel – his impact on 300 years of British culture

by Peter Medhurst 11am Bath & West Show Ground.

Guests welcome. www.theartssocietymendip.org.uk Tuesday May 7th to Sunday May 12th Frome Memorial Theatre presents "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” various times, see www.fmt.website Tickets £17, £15 from 01373 462795.

Wednesday May 8th

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Nailsea Horticultural Society talk “Your Garden in Close Up” by Chris & Judy Yates, 7.30pm Nailsea United Reformed Church Hall.

"Sustainable planting" talk by Mark Walker for Kilmersdon Gardeners, 7.30pm village hall, BA3 5TD. Weston-s-Mare Music Appreciation Society 7.30pm St Jude's Hall, St Peter's Church, Baytree Rd, BS22 8HG simonrawlings9@gmail.com or Dianne 01934 814752.

“Street in Song” see above and www.crispinhall.org.uk Lunchtime Concert 12.30-1.30pm St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton. Given by Wells Cathedral School.

Refreshments. www.stjohnschurchmsn.org.uk Wells Civic Society a year in the life of a mayor with Cllr Celia Wride, Wells and Mendip Museum 7.30pm Thursday May 9th Social table tennis all abilities 7.15pm Compton Dando village hall, £3pp details Richard 07968 269841.

Mendip Ramblers mod 6.5m Kilmersdon circle.

Start 10am Kilmersdon Church BA3 5TA, ST695524.

Details: Jane 01761 232715.

Mendip Storytelling Circle: short tales, old & new.

Entrance free, donations welcome. 7-30 pm Chewton Mendip village hall BA3 4LL mendipstorycircle@gmail.com Friday May 10th Barn Dancing with music by Jeroka, 7.30pm Ditcheat Jubilee Hall, £4. All welcome. Organised by caller, Peter Bolton: 01749 672911.

Friday May 10th and Saturday May 11th Hot Fuzzy Calendar Girls by Sutton Theatre Group, 7.30pm Bishop Sutton village hall. Bar, BYO snacks.

Tickets £9 (£65 for table of eight) from Janet 01761 452544.

Saturday May 11th Repair Cafe, 10-12.30pm, St Thomas' Church Hall, St Thomas St, Wells. Mend it, don't throw it away!

Refreshments. Details: 07729 618368.

Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds cds.

Somerset Choral Society Concert 7.30pm St Mary’s Church Wedmore, “Music for a Summer Evening” bar, tickets £12 www.ticketsource.co.uk/wedmoreartsfestival Fosseway Garden Club Plant sale, Ditcheat Jubilee Hall, refreshments, 10am-12. Details: 01749 344219.

Winscombe May Fair 2pm Old Station Millennium Green. Maypole dancing, puppet theatre, Avon Owls, many stalls & attractions. Admission free. All welcome.

Mendip Society walk from Westbury-sub-Mendip.

Mod 3.25m. Meet 2pm in the Square BA51HL. Details: Terry 01749 679128.

Somerset Day – to celebrate everything Somerset, includes art competitions for all ages, book and plant sales: www.crispinhall.org.uk Compton Martin Gardening Club plant sale 10.30am-12 at village hall. Details: 01761 221579.

Sunday May 12th Vintage Day Wessex Stationary Engine Club, 10am-4.30pm Tuckers Grave Inn, Faulkland, BA3 5XF. Nearly New Sale in support of Meningitis Now, 23.30 pm, Ubley Village Hall BS40 6PJ. Baby & children’s clothes, equipment, toys, games. To sell, ring Kate: 01761 221444.

Macmillan quiz 7.30pm Britannia Inn, Wells. Teams of up to 6, £5pp. Please book: Terry 01749 672342.

Raffle prizes welcome.

Mendip Ramblers mod 11.5m Sherborne Country Way leg 2 circular. Start 10am Charlton Horethorne DT9 4PL, ST664232. Details: Bob & Rosemary 01749 346023.

Nempnett Thrubwell Plant Sale 10am-12.30pm.

Easthouse Farm, BS40 8YS. Details: 01761 462988.

Shepton Mallet Festival of Dogs, displays, competitions, 10am-4pm Collett Park. Parking free at

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Mendip District Council cp. Details: Facebook, email neil.watkins449@gmail.com or 07909 613404.

Monday May 13th Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with Bingo. Non-members welcome, 8pm.

"Two Farmers & a Lancaster Bomber" talk by Alan Bateman for Nailsea & District Local History Society 7.45pm, Green Lecture Room, Nailsea School. Visitors £2 www.ndlhs.org.uk Mendip Folk Dance Club 8 -10pm, St James Church Hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. All welcome £3pp.

Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Tuesday May 14th Cheddar Male Choir “taster evening” for new members 7.30 – 9.30pm St John the Baptist Church, Axbridge.

Wednesday May 15th “How a visit to Canada led to a Chinese Garden in Wiltshire” by Colin Silk 7.30pm, Henton village hall.

Visitors welcome, £3 incl refreshments. Details: 01749 672084.

Bones Apart, international trombone quartet.

Afternoon workshop for bass brass players. Concert 7.30pm the Kings Theatre, Cheddar BS27 3AQ.Tickets £10 (£7) from Anne Higgs 07790 576132.

“Street in Song” see above and www.crispinhall.org.uk Thursday May 16th Classic Car & Motorcycle BBQ Gathering 7- 9pm Redhill Club BS40 5SG. All enthusiasts welcome. In aid of children's play area fund. Tel: 01934 862619.

Mendip Ramblers mod 6m Town walk & Bodden.

Start 10am Dobbies, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PE, ST629427. Park away from store. Details: Mary & Julie 07780 387045 / 07811 930171.

Carillon Singers 12.30-1.30pm St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton. Refreshments available www.stjohnschurchmsn.org.uk Friday May 17th and Saturday May 18th Hot Fuzzy Calendar Girls in Bishop Sutton. see above.

Saturday May 18th Plant Sale 8am-12, Library Gardens, Leigh Rd, Street Chrysanthemum Dahlia & Vegetable Society www.streetcdvs.org.uk Stepping Stones Playgroup Bring & Buy Sale 10am-2pm Stoberry Park School, Wells. Entry £1 (£2 per family) incl refreshments. To donate toys, books, DVDs: Emma: ewheattuition@gmail.com Bristol Gilbert & Sullivan Operatic Society, 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Yatton, Tickets £10, £8 YMS members, from www.yms.org.uk Christian Aid Gift Day, 9am-4pm St Peter’s Church Draycott “Big Breakfast” until 11am then teas & cakes, raffle, fair trade stall.

Mendip Male Voice Choir Centenary Year Concert, 7.30pm Camerton Community Hall, BA2 0NL. Tickets £10 www.ticketsource.co.uk, licensed bar.

Mendip Society walk from Blagdon. Mod 6m. Meet 11.30am in the village car park, Station Rd BS40 7TA. Bring a picnic. Details: Beryl 017614 12045 or 07800 630004.

Somerset Plant Heritage Spring Plant Fair with specialist nurseries, 10am-3pm Smallway Leisure, Congresbury, BS49 5AA. Next to Wyevale. Free entry.

WHAT’S ON

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Lions Charity Clay Shoot, open to all 11 yrs and above. Equipment supplied with tuition. Woodspring Clay Shoot, Wick St Lawrence BS22 7RR.Email: ertones@gmail.com Valley Arts presents: Mr Gotalot’s Pop-up Shop by Monkey Trousers Theatre. Interactive adventures for children aged 2-5. £5.89pp. 10am. The Old School Room, Chew Magna BS40 8SH. www.valleyartscentre.eventbrite.co.uk Saturday May 18th and Sunday May 19th Discover Axbridge, including a walk around the “Port” with Axbridge Archaeological & Local History Society £3 per event. See www.aalhs.co.uk or email: friend.elizabeth@gmail.com Sunday 19th May Open Garden in aid of Dorothy House 2-5pm Simbriss Farm, Ashwick, Oakhill BA3 5BA. Parking, refreshments, plants & books. £4. Details: 07572 881652.

Somerset Craft Club 9am-5pm Hewish & Puxton village hall. Details: Phil 07787 432700.

Blagdon Fete, a traditional village fete 1pm-4pm Blagdon Court, Station Rd, BS40 7RN. All welcome but no dogs please.

Mendip Ramblers mod 10m walk Priddy & Wookey Hole. Start 10am Deerleap cp BA5 1EL, ST519492.

Details: Claris 07811 242061.

Monday May 20th “Summertime in Sweden” talk by Andrew Daw for Timsbury Natural History Group, follows a brief AGM 7.30pm Conygre Hall. Non-members welcome, £3.

Fagus Garden Club ‘From Cutting Garden to Bouquet’ by Tonia Britten. Nailsea Methodist Hall 8pm. Members £2 Visitors £4.

Mendip Postcard Club. Double bill of The Mistletoe Bough and Edwardian Actresses. Wells Town Hall 7.30pm.

Tuesday May 21st Congresbury Over-60s Club. ‘Summer Colour in the Garden’ talk by Don Everitt with plant sale.

Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.30-4pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Bleadon Horticultural Society "Bristol University Botanic Garden” by Ann Brake, 7.30pm Coronation Hall, Bleadon BS24 0PG All welcome £2.

Matilda – evening Charity Theatre Trip by coach to Bristol Hippodrome. To book & for details of future events: Chris 01458 273085 www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk Wednesday May 22nd Weston-s-Mare Music Appreciation Society 7.30pm St Jude's Hall, St Peter's Church, Baytree Rd, BS22 8HG simonrawlings9@gmail.com or Dianne 01934 814752.

“Street in Song” see above and www.crispinhall.org.uk Organ Recital by John Cottle 12.30-1.30pm St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton. Refreshments available www.stjohnschurchmsn.org.uk Thursday May 23rd Social table tennis 7.15pm Compton Dando village hall £3pp details Richard 07968 269841.

Mendip Ramblers mod 6.3m Knowle Hill, Barren Down. Start 10am West Shepton playing fields BA4 5XN, ST609432. Details: Dave 01963 351077 07816 844345.

APRIL CROSSWORD SOLUTION

ACROSS: 9 Evoke, 10 North West, 11 Tall tales, 12 Aston, 13 Papyrus, 15 Cochair, 16 Cheddar bedstraw, 18 Emblems, 20 Cadmium, 22 Plumb, 23 Adhesives, 25 Spherical, 26 Fosse.

DOWN: 1 Sent up, 2 Collapse, 3 Kent, 4 Enclosures, 5 Pros, 6 The accused, 7 Bertha, 8 St Andrew, 14 Roddenbury, 15 Creech Hill, 16 Cheapest, 17 Reinvest, 19 Bought, 21 Mussel, 23 Arch, 24 Sofa.

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Saturday May 25th to Sunday June 2nd “Tales & Legends” lots of half term fun, 10am to 6pm, Bishop’s Palace Wells www.bishopspalace.org.uk Saturday May 25th Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds.

Frome Memorial Theatre presents "Pop Divas Live!" 3pm. Tickets £15 from 01373 462795 www.fmt.website Veterans Breakfast, Royal British Legion, Wells 10-11.30am £5pp The Venue, South Street. Please book: wellsrblsecretary@aol.co.uk or 07497 465118.

Sunday May 26th "How Newton & Apollo got us to the Moon" Mike Chipperfield for Wessex Stationary Engine Club, 8pm, Old Down Inn, Emborough BA3 4SA. Social table tennis 2.30pm Compton Dando village hall £3pp details Richard 07968 269841.

Mendip Ramblers mod 11m West Compton, Croscombe. Start 10am Dobbies, BA4 4PE, ST629427 Shepton Mallet. Park away from store. Details: Les & Claris 07768 556735 07811 242061.

2019 Railway Rocks for Lucia. The Railway, Welton Road, Radstock. Six bands from 1-8pm, BBQ and raffle. Raising money for Teenage Cancer Trust, Clic Sargent and others in memory of Lucia Robinson. Organised by Go Blue for Lucia.

Coleford Music Day. Organised by Coleford Revival Group, Midday11.30pm, Coleford Royal British Legion. Tickets on sale from April 27th.

Advance: £10 Adult, £5 Child, Family Ticket £23 (two adults & two children).

Door: £12 Adult, £6 Child. £1 of all tickets will be donated to Southwest Homeless Group.

Monday May 27th Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with Bingo. Nonmembers welcome, 8pm.

Cheddar Vale Lions annual duck races, Cheddar Gorge, first race 2pm. All proceeds to Children’s Hospice South West and local Lions charities. Details: information@cheddarvalelions.org.uk Bruton Packhorse Fair. One of the town’s biggest and most loved annual events. Music, stalls, food, drink and the famous drag race. Organised by Bruton Festival of Arts and Packhorse Fair a non-profit making community organisation. 10am-5pm. FFi: Facebook @brutonfestivalandpackhorsefair Tuesday May 28th Chilcompton Garden Club 7.30pm village hall. Felicity Down, formerly of Cleeve Nursery, about plants grown for fragrance in the garden.

Wednesday May 29th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support group: “Sight & Sound” 1.30pm Backwell WI Hall. Details: Sheila 01275 462107.

Matilda – half term matinee musical, Bristol Hippodrome. Charity Theatre Trip by coach. To book & for details of future events: Chris 01458 273085 www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk Lunchtime Concert clarinet & piano, 12.30-1.30pm St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton. Refreshments available www.stjohnschurchmsn.org.uk Thursday May 30th Mendip Ramblers mod 6m to Corton Denham. Start 10am Cadbury Castle cp BA22 7HA, ST632253. Details: Dave D 01963 351077 / 07816 844345.

Saturday June 1st Compton Dundon Church Fete, 3pm at The Castlebrook Inn. Hog roast & dog show.

Mendip Society walk an easy 5m from Orchardleigh golf club, nr Frome BA11 2PH. Meet 2pm.Tea to follow at club house, £10 (must be booked).

Details: Gill 01934 742508.

Sunday June 2nd Crank Up at Sweets Tea Rooms, Blakeway, nr Wedmore BS28 4UE. Wessex Stationary Engine Club, 8am-5pm.

Mendip Ramblers mod 10.8m to Leighton. Start 10am Cloford, nr church BA11 5PH, ST747439. Contact Mike 01373 472101 / 07711 090656.

ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW TICKET WINNERS

Mendip Times teamed up with the show organisers to give five readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show.

The first five correct answers drawn were from: Mrs P. Rees, Midsomer Norton; S. Stallard, Faulkland; Christine Hayman, Compton Martin; Wadeela Hales, Bath; and D. Whittle, Bagley, near Wedmore.

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Getting read for the Royal Bath and West Show

WITH just over a month to go until the Royal Bath & West Show, entries have been flooding in for competitions ranging from private driving and sheep shearing to bees and honey, cider and cheese.

Equine classes are very popular with new competitions this year including gypsy cobs – both ridden and in-hand – a stallion class in the riding pony breeding section, and a driven team of three, four or six heavy horses.

In the show jumping rings, some of the UK’s top riders will be hoping to qualify for the British Showjumping National Championships, the BHS Royal International Horse Show, and the Horse of the Year Show.

Head of shows, Alan Lyons, said: “With more than £52,000 in prize money up for grabs and our stunning specialist equine area, the Royal Bath & West Show is one of the most prestigious events in the equine calendar.

“Other competitions include the British Farriers & Blacksmiths Association Championship, the Apprentice Championship and classes contributing to the acclaimed Champion Blacksmith of the Year award.”

A short walk from the farrier pavilion is the bees and honey tent, with classes including observation hives, comb and jar honey and beeswax decorations. The general public can even get involved with the public choice awards. Having whetted their appetite, they can then head to the British Cider Championships and British Cheese Awards, to try out some of the UK’s best produce.

Mr Lyons said: “If you’re looking for a quieter pastime, why not head to the floral art tent, which features a range of competitions including the People’s Choice award and PopUp Garden category, or nip into the art competition and be inspired by beautiful paintings and sculpture from the region’s artists – even vote for your favourite work and take it home with you.”

Livestock are a key part of the South West economy, and the best dairy and beef cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry will be competing for top honours in the livestock rings. This year, new classes include the Dexter National Show; commerical cattle; Portland, Primitive and Shetland sheep and veteran sows.

The show runs from Wednesday, May 29th to Saturday June 1st and for the first time children can go free.

Details: www.bathandwest.com 0844 776 6777. Children – for the first time – can go free during the May half term, with a £5 discount on early adult bookings.

For further information or media enquiries contact Olivia Cooper on 01392 840009 or e-mail olivia@ agri-hub.co.uk

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