Mendiptimes - Volume 10 - Issue 6

Mendip Times

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 6

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FREE

Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

NOVEMBER 2014

INSIDE: CARNIVALS APPLE DAYS V I L L AG E F O C U S ARTS & ANTIQUES C H R I S T MA S I D E A S Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

LET us be the first to give you a Christmas gift – this issue of Mendip Times is one of the biggest we have ever produced.

Thanks to the growing support of advertisers, we’ve been able to increase the number of editorial pages once again to reflect the huge variety of shows, carnivals, festivals and other events from the area in the past month, as well as adding extra pages devoted to music, charities, property, farming and arts and antiques.

We are also looking ahead to Christmas with pages on festive food and drink, Christmas gift ideas and what’s on, with a special spotlight on events in Cheddar, the Chew Valley and Winscombe.

This month we hear how our local towns and villages continue to reflect the centenary of the start of the Great War – one book is devoted to the diary of a wartime nurse, another details the names of all of those from the Burrington area who were involved in the conflict.

We’ve news of fun runs, midnight croquet and some serious rugby – and recipe tips for Hallowe’en – as well as all of our regular features and contributors.

Welcome to a generous preChristmas slice of Mendip life.

December 2014 deadline: Friday, 14th November 2014.

Published: Tuesday, 25th November 2014.

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 Children’s Carnival (see page 46).

Photo by Mark Adler.

14

Just champion – Dairy Show celebrates the country’s finest cattle

28

Hitting the jackpot – food festivals attract thousands

108

Cheers! – raising a glass to the apple harvest

115

World cup winner – Cary welcomes Marlie and the Moodys

Plus all our regular features Environment...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE..........10 Internet and Crossword..............21 Food & Drink...............................22 Business ........................................38 Arts & Antiques ...........................48 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......61 Walking Sue Gearing....................62 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........64 Gardening Mary Payne MBE ......66

Caving Phil Hendy........................71 Property........................................74 Health Dr Phil Hammond.............86 Community Simon Selby .............92 Charities .......................................94 Motoring .......................................99 Homes and Interiors..................100 Riding Celia Gadd ......................112 Sport............................................114 What’s On...................................118 MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 3

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Cliff rescue

Sunflower is no weed

AVON and Somerset Search and Rescue were called in to help ambulance crews rescue an injured climber in Goblin Combe at Cleeve.

The climber was found to have serious injuries. He was stabilised before being airlifted to hospital by Sea King helicopter.

Pensford’s mining heritage

In need of a friend

VOLUNTEER befrienders are needed by Age UK B&NES to support lonely older people across the area. Befrienders provide companionship, social contact and support to older people in the community. This could be anything from having a chat over a cup of tea, visiting the shops together or going to a café.

Janet Dabbs, Age UK B&NES’ chief executive, said: “Most befrienders offer up to an hour or so a week – but any time you can give will make a huge difference. We provide full training and support and would never call upon volunteers to do any nursing work – it is simply about offering friendship.”

Befrienders are currently needed in Peasedown St John, Keynsham, Saltford, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Timsbury, Combe Down, Odd Down, Oldfield Park, Twerton, Weston, Newbridge and Bathampton.

Age UK B&NES is a local charity supporting around 12,000 older people, their families and carers each year in Bath and North East Somerset.

Details: Ceri Sanders 01225 462641 or www.ageukbanes.co.uk

School wins lottery funding

ST BENEDICT’S Catholic Primary School, Charlton Lane, Radstock has received £10,000 from the Big Lottery Fund for a new community play area in the school grounds.

Headteacher, Cindy Stockting, said: “We hope that many generations of families will benefit from this provision. The staff and governors at St Benedict’s are delighted to have received this award, which will turn an unused area into a safe space to promote learning and inclusion.”

EVE and Ernie Hamlet take a tape measure to their giant sunflower which grew to at least 12 feet tall – complete with at least a dozen flowerheads. The couple, from Stratton-on-the-Fosse, are keen gardeners but had never tried growing sunflowers until they were given some seeds by a relative. The seeds won’t go to waste; they love wildlife and will put them onto their bird table.

The British record for a sunflower stands at some 26’ tall!

Pictured (left to right) Shane Gould, Liz Richardson, district councillor and a member of SWAG’s committee, and Robert Bailey.

A MINING and heritage evening at Stanton Drew village hall gave a graphic account of mining around the Pensford area.

Leading the evening were Robert Bailey with his popular collection of photos and artefacts from his days as stint manager at the pits in Pensford and Shane Gould from English Heritage, who published a book in 1999 entitled The Somerset Coalfield.

The pair guided the audience through the local mining heritage of the area, dealing in particular with how life was for men, women, children and horses working at Pensford Colliery, which closed in 1958.

Everyone was fascinated, including several members of the audience, who spotted relatives amongst Robert Bailey's captivating library of photographs.

Mrs Judith Chubb Whittle, who is part of a team raising funds for The Pensford, Publow and Stantons Community Trust, (SWAG) and who was one of the organisers, said: “It is amazing to hear from a Pensford miner and look at such recent history, yet so far removed from the lives we lead now.”

So popular was the evening that SWAG is planning to hold another evening early next year.

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Mining in Camerton

THE Camerton Local History Group’s first event held in October was a big success with a full house at the local school for a talk and exhibition about local mines.

Children from the school introduced the evening by singing Down! Down! Digging in a Somerset Mine. Then guest speakers, Neil MacMillen and Mike Chapman gave a wonderful talk and slide show of old mining photographs from their new revised book ‘Coal from Camerton’ on sale at Radstock Museum.

The history group then invited everyone to look around an exhibition, which included some unusual artefacts from the mines, boards of local photographs and other local information.

Rocks of ages – Mendip geology festival success

THE annual Mendip Rocks! geology festival certainly lived up to its promise that it would offer something for all ages.

The Mendip-wide festival began with an event for junior schools at Burrington Combe, included visits for adults to some of its working quarries, as well as

lectures, talks and practical events.

The Big Rocks School Day at Burrington attracted more than 100 pupils. Classes from Shipham, Blagdon, Burrington and Sandford primary schools took part in hands-on activities provided by Butterfly Conservation, Plantlife, Somerset Earth Science Centre

Shipham School pupils at the Big Rocks School Day PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

and Somerset Wildlife Trust. ‘A’ level geology students from Wells Cathedral School also helped with the workshops.

Mendip Rocks! 2014 has been supported by the Mendip Hills AONB Partnership in collaboration with the Somerset Earth Science Centre and Somerset Wildlife Trust.

Burrington Combe also hosted the first public event – a family fun afternoon offering a range of activities including geocaching

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Battle for Norton St. Philip

THE president of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), Sir Andrew Motion, visited the CPRE branches of Wiltshire, Somerset and Avonside to discuss countryside issues and met these local volunteers in Norton St. Philip.

Campaigners in the medieval village say they have difficulties opposing housing developments because of the absence of a local plan – circumstances that have led to Norton St Philip undergoing a radical transformation in character.

Sir Andrew said: “I greatly enjoyed visiting Norton St. Philip, with its spectacular medieval heritage. Nevertheless, it is sad to see the unfettered development of housing on its perimeter and the struggles of residents in tackling development where there is no local plan.”

Chris Lewis, chair of CPRE Somerset, said: “Here in Norton St Philip the absence of a local plan has been made worse by the presumption in favour of development brought in by recent government planning reforms.

“With the village’s attractive setting and proximity to Bath and Bristol, developers have been drawn to it like bees around a honey pot. The village has undergone drastic and unsustainable development, with a significant loss of green space and the anticipated doubling of the population.

Environmental grants

THE Mendip Hills Fund has awarded its first grants.

Blagdonia, a community group bringing together residents and organisations in Blagdon, has been awarded £1,600 towards an outdoor community mosaic panel reflecting different aspects of the village.

Somerset Art Works (SAW), an artist-led non-profit making organisation dedicated to developing visual arts, has been awarded £2,000, subject to raising match funding, for a multistranded art trail ‘step in stone’ around disused and working quarries in the East Mendips.

The Mendip Hills Fund is a partnership between Somerset Community Foundation and Mendip Hills AONB Partnership providing a new fund to conserve and enhance the environment, communities and economy of the Mendip Hills.

Artists are working with Wainwrights quarry at Stoke St. Michael

ENVIRONMENT

Sir Andrew Motion with CPRE Somerset members and local campaigners in Norton St Philip

“This type of development, without new jobs or new services within the village, is clearly unsustainable. Local communities do not want to become ‘dormitory villages’ with large housing developments tacked onto their edges. Yet, despite sterling efforts from CPRE Somerset and others, local people are powerless to challenge powerful developers.

“CPRE Somerset has played an important role in the consultation over the Mendip Local Plan, and we now urge the council to adopt it so that local people will be able to have a fairer say in what happens in their towns and villages.”

Chew Stoke leads the way

Councillor David Dixon and Kirsty Simmonds with one of the school's new food waste bins

CHEW Stoke Primary School has become the first school in Bath and North East Somerset to start recycling their food waste. A dozen schools have now signed up to have their food waste collected by the council.

Kirsty Simmonds, Eco-Schools Co-ordinator at Chew Stoke said: “We were amazed at the amount of `leftovers` after lunch and the scheme will help us to focus on reducing this, especially now that all our infant pupils are entitled to have a school lunch.”

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ENVIRONMENT

Flood relief fund one year on

M E N D I P W E AT H E R S C E N E

A NEW fundraising plan to minimise the effects of flooding on the Somerset Levels has been announced as the first anniversary approaches of last winter’s devastation.

Formerly known as the Somerset Levels Relief Fund, the Royal Bath and West Society is spearheading the new Somerset Levels Development Fund which will look at ways to broaden the economic scope of the area as well as promoting a management plan to reduce the impact of floods.

The society recognised the potential effects of flooding in September 2013 when it launched the SLRF – but no-one predicted the crisis would strike so swiftly.

Since the creation of a 20 year Flood Action Plan backed by the government, the society, Somerset County Council and other agencies have been working together to investigate other sources of funding.

At a reception to mark the first anniversary of the launch of the fund its chairman, Edwin White, said the aim was to take a holistic approach. He said: “While we are conscious that there are still many families unable to return to their homes and farmers and businesses are in financial difficulties because of

May to November

Guests at a reception to mark the first anniversary of the Somerset Levels Relief Fund

the flooding, we must focus our efforts on finding a long term solution for the future of the Levels.

“Today is about saying thank you for the kindness and generosity of so many individuals and organisations who have already helped us distribute a large amount of money to farmers in need. It is also a plea for support to help us fund long term solutions for water management on the Somerset Levels and Moors that will be of benefit to everyone who lives, works or visits there.”

David Hall, chairman of the county council, said there would inevitably be a “premium” for living in Somerset. He

I HAVE often said that May is one of my most favourite months of the year, but the converse also applies in that November is about my least favourite.

November is, of course, the “opposite” month to May and everything that is good about May is with DAVID bad about November. The days are MAINE already short and getting shorter through the month and winter instead of summer is ahead of us. There is even a saying about the month which I am sure I have quoted in the past: “No sun, no moon, no proper time of day – November”. Even the festive activities are still at least a month away and the gloriously dry September is already a dim memory.

So, what good things can we say about November, weatherwise? Well, not a lot, I fear. As I write, the month is still too far away to make any predictions because as I have said in the past, the accuracy of any forecasts beyond a week ahead still tends to drop off quite markedly.

Maybe one day we will have computers powerful enough

PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

warned: “There is no quick fix to flooding. It is an ongoing management process.”

The project is being backed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Mark Robins, from the society, said: “There’s a lot to be really positive about here and it’s great to be working in partnership with the Royal Bath and West Society to help address some of the problems so tragically brought into sharp relief last winter.”

Michael Eavis, founder of the Glastonbury Festival, launched the SLRF last year. He said: “It has been a romantic dream of mine to get the moors back to when I was a child.”

Players and spectators at Castle Cary Rugby Club shelter from a dramatic downpour during the First XV’s home win over North Petherton

to make accurate predictions for up to a month ahead, but there will always be the “random” effect. By that I mean events (say a volcanic eruption somewhere or forest fires) which were unforeseen at the time the forecast was made, could change the pattern.

Bye for now.

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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

Glastonbury: 11 Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8DL. Tel: 01458 832510

e bad news this month is that Natalie Duckett is no longer working at the Cheddar Office. e good news is that, a few weeks after her departure her replacement Natalie Barker joined us. She was similar in many respects although looked more relaxed, tanned and happy having apparently spent several weeks cruising the Mediterranean.

(L-R): Vicky Scorse, Natalie Barker, Gareth In case you didn’t know, or haven’t Reynolds, Sarah Millard and Carole guessed, Natalie recently married her long Pollard on the lawn at Nyland Manor. term boyfriend, Kai. e couple have been together for approximately eight years. ey met when Kai tried, unsuccessfully, to sell Natalie his secondhand car. Perhaps wisely, she refused that offer but did accept his offer of a date and there was an immediate spark between them (probably because Kai is an electrician)! ey live in Cheddar with their dog Diesel who, despite the macho name, is a timid and rather pampered spaniel. e ceremony was held at St Mary’s Church in Wedmore after which the couple travelled by pony and trap to a reception at the newly opened (and absolutely first class) Nyland Manor. e photo shows Natalie and her Cheddar Office colleagues at the reception. e Cheddar Office operated with a skeleton staff on the day of the wedding since Natalie was kind enough to invite several of her long term colleagues. A special mention must go to Vicky Scorse who did an excellent job of covering Natalie’s work in addition to her own whilst Natalie was away on honeymoon.

Castle Cary: Old Bank House, High Street, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7AW. Tel: 01963 350888

Cheddar: Roley House, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3RA. Tel: 01934 745400

Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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Mary’s A to Z of animals

LOCAL artist, Mary Griese, is about to publish An Alphabet of Farm Animals, a boxed hardback book of her paintings.

Mary, from Regil, was born in Bath and studied at the West of England College of Art in Bristol. Both her Welsh father and maternal Irish/Yorkshire grandfather were artists. For most of her adult life she has managed to combine art with farming and writing.

After a few years of looking after Arab horses in Gloucestershire, she moved with her young family to a sheep farm on the Black Mountain in South Wales. There, in 1987, she set up ‘Slightly Sheepish’: a range of greetings cards and prints from her watercolours of farm livestock.

Since then she has been her selling her work at agricultural shows and sheepdog trials all over the country.

She provides designs for various sheep and cattle breed societies, takes private commissions of prize livestock and has illustrated several books.

The idea of an agricultural alphabet book came to her some years ago. Not only to bring a flavour of the countryside to urban children, but also to enthuse those farming children who dislike school and can’t wait to get back home to the farm. When her two grandchildren arrived, she decided it was time to put paintbrush to paper.

The book has been a labour of love, taking her two years to complete and she hopes it will be a keepsake. It will be published by the end of November.

An Alphabet of Farm Animals

by Mary Gri ese

Will retail at £25 (p&p £3.50) or can be bought from Walnut Tree Farm, Regil, Winford BS40 8BD, or Unit 5A, Fairseat Farm, Chew Stoke, BS40 8XF. Tel: 01275 472207.

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Why does milk cost more than water?

A LOVELY summer has been very welcome, with good grass crops and a bumper harvest, but prices on all commodities are very unsteady, milk particularly.

Despite the milk problems the Dairy Show at Shepton Mallet was a great success. David Handley of ‘Farmers for Action’ announced With MARY the start of protests at creameries such as JAMES MBE Dairy Crest. To add insult to injury Iceland have just made the decision to offer its customers four pints of semi-skimmed milk for 89p.

Four pints of bottled water can cost from £1.50 and where is the food value in that! Someone somewhere is making the profits but it is not the dairy farmers.

The Royal Bath and West Show now has Lord and Lady Fellowes as joint Presidents. We look forward to the Main Show 2015 where, who knows, we may see some Downton Abbey stars.

The local ploughing matches were all very successful and the Mendip match had BBC Countryfile in attendance. Champion ploughman (for many years) Roy Hill from Dundry had the pleasure of teaching the lovely Ellie Harrison how to plough.

The Taste of the West Awards were held in the M shed in Bristol this October. The very popular lunch was attended by 280 people from all over the South West. Taste of the West was actually started in 1990 to encourage small producers to develop and expand. There are several examples in Mendip of big food and drink businesses who began as members of Taste of the West, Thatchers, for instance, Yeo Valley and Lye Cross Farm.

An award winner this year was Mendip Moments Ice-cream.

There were awards for Best Pub, Best Tea Rooms, Best B and B etc. using local food, as well as best sausages and many other products, too numerous to mention For the last 15 years at least there has been constant advice to farmers, particularly the smaller ones, to diversify and sell their product direct to the customer because that it the best chance of survival. Farmers markets and farm shops are a great success and will always sell new product from their area.

There is a demand for game, but where do you find it? There are two brothers in Cirencester, William and Callum Thompson who, after many setbacks, have managed to open a restaurant called Eat Wild. Look them up on the internet.

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Sale time in Priddy

Sale draws crowds

Bidders crowd round auctioneer Tom Killen

BUYERS and the curious flocked to the green in Priddy – traditionally home of the historic sheep fair – for the annual implement sale.

Organised by Killens auctioneers, the event grew out of the annual fair, which was cancelled this year.

Elsie with her puppy Winnie – a cross between a Jack Russell and a Shitsu – visits the lots on Priddy Green

FARMING THE David James & Partners annual collective farm and machinery sale was held on Saturday October 2014. There was an excellent turn-out to bid for the 600 lots coming

under the hammer.

A large entry of items were received from the Environment Agency including an assortment of steel, containers, tanks etc which contributed to the sale of over 400 lots sold by two auctioneers running simultaneously.

Other items included Ford tractors, farm machinery, trailers, livestock equipment and workshop items. A Ford Tractor Series 3 6410, 1990 with Quicke Loader sold for £5,300.

Built in Britain for British Farmers Available now from your local dealer

UPHILL & SON LTD Chewton Mendip 01761 241270 Lots of time to chat – the auction lasted for several hours

Main JCB agriculture distributors for Somerset, South Glos. and West Wilts.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 11

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They came, they ploughed . . .

Words and pictures by Mark Adler

HUNDREDS of spectators gathered at Priddy for the 145th competition organised by the Mendip Ploughing Society.

The annual contest – the society is now in its 156th year – has evolved into as much of an educational experience as a celebration of the ancient craft.

Schools increasingly use the event as an opportunity for children to experience living history and to learn about farming practices. But the event, held this year on Yeo Valley land at Priddy Hill Farm, is also a chance for adults to soak up the atmosphere.

The event offered novices the opportunity to try their hands at ploughing, hedgelaying and dry stone walling as organisers stepped up their effort to encourage newcomers to take part.

And, as one novice competitor admitted: “I came, I ploughed but I didn’t conquer!”

Youngsters from Croscombe school meet Prince and George led by Lauren Mattingley, from Long Ashton

Matthew Martin, from Redhill, competed in memory of his godfather John Gallop

Time stands still: Steve Ham, from Wells, in the novice class

Roger and Andrew Triggol, from Tickenham, took this 1919 steampowered tractor to the match. The plough it trailed is probably even rarer

Bryony Gill, from St Austell with Angel and Lad; they won the horse ploughing class PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Frank Wear, the oldest member of the society

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MENDIP PLOUGHING MATCH Yeo Valley’s Priddy Hill Farm hosted the event

Tina Bath – the society’s first woman chairman in its 156th year history

BBC Countryfile were filming at the match.

Presenter Ellie Harrison chats to two of the stewards Pat Keen and Keith Hasell . . .

. . . and tries her hand at ploughing with help from Bryony

Mike Parfitt, from Clapton, enjoyed success in several classes of the horticulture section

Red, set, plough: competitors in the high cut class MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 13

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MENDIP TIMES

Show shines despite shadow of price cuts

By Mark Adler

THE cream of the country’s dairy cattle were the stars of the 2014 Dairy Show even though farmers were left reeling from the latest cuts in the price of milk.

Dairy farmers and their families voiced their anger at the fourth month of cuts in a row during a question time session at the one-day event at the Royal Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet.

David Handley, chairman of Farmers for Action, Jonathan Ovens, chairman of the Arla Milk Co-operative and Rob Harrison, chairman of the NFU Dairy Board, took part in the Farmers Guardian Great Milk Debate.

Meanwhile, Will Vincent, rural accountant at Old Mill, one of the sponsors of the show, warned that cost control would be critical to diary farm profits.

Based on clients’ accounts with year-ends in March and April of this year, average dairy profits jumped sharply last year which might held them weather the current crisis. Will said: “Milk price is, of course,

Supreme champion: Anthea Dawe with her Jersey champion, was presented with her award

by Mark Cox, from sponsor Micron and Lord and Lady Fellowes, joint presidents of the show society

an important driver of farm returns but it is not the only determinant of profitability.”

But, as show chairman Richard Calver said in his welcome in the show catalogue, the industry still has a promising future.

No-one who saw the quality of the cattle in the various classes could argue with that.

And the supreme champion in the cattle classes certainly had a story to tell. The Jersey cow, bred and shown by the Dawe family from Wiltshire, suffered a life-

Jo Langley and Andrew Hird with the winning pair of Jerseys from the Greylands Herd, owned by Colin Parfitt, of Dundry

threatening stomach illness known as a right displacement abomasum during the Royal Bath and West Show. There were tears of joy from Anthea Dawe, who showed Jubilee Excitation Ceres, and hugs from her family.

G Peter Winstone, who farms at Baltonsborough, was named the winner of the Dairy Industry Award at the eve-ofshow dinner. One of the sponsors of the dinner was Yeo Valley.

Michael Hulford, who has worked for the Hasell family in the Chew Valley since 1966 was presented with a long service award by Lord and Lady Fellowes A big crowd and a record number of trade stands were at this year’s show

The Dairy Industry Vet of the Future Award was won by Benjamin Barber, from Dorset. Pictured (l:r): finalists Maedee Rogers and Caroline Abbott, Lord Fellowes, Benjamin, third finalist Matt Barnard, who studied at Bristol University, and Lady Fellowes PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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DAIRY SHOW 2014

David Handley, from Farmers for Action, makes a firm point during the milk debate

Cattle gather in the judging arena for the supreme champion final

Andrew Vickery, from Old Mill, presents the award for the champion pair of cattle to Chris Jennings (left) and Andrew Rimmer, who showed a pair of Ayreshire cattle owned by C and L Window, of Hunnington, near Halesowen

Louise Carpenter returns award-winning Guernsey cow Trevider Hercules Linnette to her stall

Few of the visitors left empty-handed with many of the record number of trade stands handing out freebies MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 15

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Palace’s Christmas festival THE Bishop’s Palace in Wells is hosting a spectacular Winter Flower Festival and Christmas Market celebrating the festive season with fantastic floral art.

The UK’s top floral artists and awardwinning designers such as Pam Lewis, Coral Gardiner, Lucy Ellis, Cath Humphries and Nick Heal, along with Wells and District Floral Arts Society will fill the palace and chapel buildings with hundreds of stunning arrangements, all based on themes which interpret the Christmas season.

The Palace will also be holding an exciting Christmas Market with an array of beautiful stalls, from toys to handbags, seeds to cider and all sorts in between, designed to take the stress out of Christmas shopping and tempt you with gift ideas for all ages.

The Bishop’s Table café will have two outlets for seasonal treats to refresh and revive you during your visit, a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie will be sure to put you in the festive spirit!

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For the duration of the Winter Festival there will be a packed timetable of workshops and demos by professional designers and industry experts in subjects ranging from table decorations to wreath-making and cake

decorating to hand crafting willow designs.

Visitors who come after dark will be delighted by external illuminations, lighting up the gardens and exterior of the Palace like never before.

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Be confident, be yourself, says Anna Perra

Anna (seated) at the drinks party she hosted to celebrate the second anniversary of her shop in Shepton Mallet

ANNA Perra Fashion in Shepton Mallet is much more than simply a shop selling a unique range of clothing, jewellery and accessories.

Behind every item is a concept created by businesswoman Anna Perra to give women the confidence to be themselves.

Anna, who came to England from Rome in 1996, believes that “style” really is an individual matter where age and size are no obstacles to looking and feeling good.

Anna recently celebrated the second anniversary of the shop with a party for customers who, she says, are now “friends”.

Some of those friends have taken part in fashion shows at Charlton House Hotel raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Anna said: “I have a passion for casual elegance and dressing women to look great. Sometimes that means encouraging women to step out of their comfort zone.”

A great believer that the simplest of accessories or a splash of colour can transform even the plainest of outfits, Anna has built up a wealth of experience in the fashion industry which she combines with a strong instinct for what “works”. Anna added: “Helping women to be themselves is very rewarding and I am now good friends with many of my customers who sometimes simply come to me for advice.

“I am trying to bring the ‘wow’ factor to Shepton Mallet and make my shop a destination for women looking for personal styling.”

THE IDEAL GIFT!

CHRISTMAS IDEAS 2014

Gift of flight

MENDIP Gliding Club is offering four junior gliding scholarships for 2014, with instruction from BGA qualified instructors at this friendly local club.

Those awarded these coveted bursaries will not only learn how to fly in a two-seat glider but will also have the opportunity to work in a disciplined team running an airfield and to study some of the aspects of flying including airmanship, navigation and meteorology.

The scholarships are available to those aged between 14 and 25 who are in full-time education. The scholarship gives 12 months free junior membership. Having achieved solo standard a bursary of £200 will be credited to their flying account.

Normal junior membership is £118 per year plus flying fees.

Details: Club Secretary J Patrick N Haxell on 01761 232080 or email clubsec.mendipglidingclub@hotmail.com for an application form.

FLY A GLIDER!

Mendip Gliding Club is located near Cheddar and offers a variety of Glider Flying packages including Trial Lesson Vouchers (from £35), or regular membership and “Fixed Price To Solo” options.

Club is open all year on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Suitable for aged 12 upwards – no upper limit! Fly with BGA-rated instructors in dual control gliders.

For further information please visit our website at: www.mendipgliderclub.co.uk or contact Club Secretary on 01761 232080 MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 17

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Christmas artisan market

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A GLASTONBURY HOLY THORN TREE Crataegus Monogyna Biflora – It’s The Real Thing!!!

Available from Malcolm Slocombe Four Seasons 16 High Street, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 9DU Telephone No: 01458 832061 Now available in Patio size

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lllllllllllllllllll THE IDEAL CHRISTMAS PRESENT

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Needful Things

. . . for all the Magic of Christmas!

7 High Street + Castle Cary + Somerset BA7 7AN + 01963 351352

Mendip Times reduces travel costs 100,000 potential customers just a few miles from your business

THE beautiful and historic Mells Tithe Barn will once again host a unique boutique-style Christmas shopping event at the end of November.

Christmas at the Barn offers the perfect balance of stalls to purchase beautiful seasonal gifts, foods and home accessories. Christmas at the Barn is now in its fifth year and is guaranteed to A scene from a previous kick start the festive season Christmas market at the 14th in style!

Century tithe barn The weekend – on Saturday, November 29th and Sunday, November 30th – is organised by Rebecca Larsen of www.edamay.com. Rebecca handpicks and invites each stall holder to the event to guarantee that visitors will find gifts and seasonal products that won’t be found anywhere else.

There will be a different mix of 21 artisan stalls on both days. Products for sale will include: locally produced chocolates, plants cards, toys, homewares, soft furnishings, ceramics, paintings, prints, jewellery and accessories, stocking fillers, textiles, craft kits and much more along with entertainment for children. The market is free to enter on both days.

A raffle with all prizes donated by stallholders will be running over the weekend. All money will go to the Mells Community Shop and Cafe, a vital part of the Mells Community.

All you need for Christmas

NEEDFUL Things of Castle Cary are now full from floor to ceiling with decorations, gifts and all those finishing touches for your Christmas celebrations such as napkins, place settings, and beautiful candle centre pieces for the dining table!

Why not pop over to this delightful shop in Castle Cary this season and enjoy the multitude of magical Christmas baubles and trees, wreaths and garlands that add that special sparkle to your home? They have gifts galore and of course their A/W Clothing range to keep you nice and warm too.

Getting ready for Christmas CLEEVE Nursery are holding an evening of seasonal ideas and decorations with Felicity Down on Thursday December 11th, at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £5 in advance, with wine and nibbles, in aid of Cancer Research UK. Details: Cleeve Nursery, Cleeve, Bristol, BS49 4PW, 01934 832134.

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Have a very sporting Christmas!

Page 19

CHRISTMAS IDEAS 2014

KATRINA and Rob Lintott, from Southfield Sporting the popular country clothing and gun shop based at Whatley, near Frome, are looking forward to celebrating the second anniversary of their venture.

With this year’s game season now underway, their cartridge store is fully stocked with a wide range of cartridges from leading manufactures Hull Cartridge, Gamebore, NSI and RC. Their full cartridge list is available to view on their website.

When purchasing cartridges for this season, Rob offers this advice regarding their storage: “Make sure to store cartridges in a secure, warm and dry environment. It is best to avoid extremes of heat and moisture, such as loft spaces and garages, which can be very cold in winter and rather warm in summer.”

Anyone looking for Christmas presents for friends and family who have a love of the countryside should visit Southfield Sporting which offers a wide range of gift ideas for all budgets. And, if new winter-proof clothing is on the gift list, the shop has a wide array of brands to choose from under one roof including: Schoffel, Alan Paine, Harkila, Seeland, Joules, Le Chameau and many more.

Keep up to date with special offers, opening times and events leading up to Christmas on Southfield Sporting’s website, Facebook and Twitter pages.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 19

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CHRISTMAS IDEAS 2014

Mona, Lisa in the picture

FITNESS and wellbeing coach Mona Christensen is working with highly-respected skin specialist Lisa Mann to offer a unique collaboration for women – and men – who want to look their best for the festive season and beyond.

Mona runs Functional Fitness Forever in Wells, whilst Lisa offers Love Your Skin spa treatments from her clinic at home in the city. Lisa specialises in nonsurgical treatments and deep working therapies ranging from Lisa and Mona facelifts to hair reduction. They include 3D liposuction using some of the latest technology developed by hospitals.

The collaboration began when they were introduced to each other by a mutual client. In the run-up to Christmas, Mona and Lisa are offering a special package to include a course of “Shrinking Violet Wraps” and personal training sessions. Lisa said: “It’s very rare to be nurtured by two people in this way and we complement each other very well.”

Mona added: “Clients can enjoy the instant boost of a wrap and then do the healthy bit!”

To find out more about Lisa, visit: www.loveyourskinlisa.co.uk or call 01749 939309. To find out more about Mona, visit: www.functionalfitnessforever.co.uk or call 01749 676086.

PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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INTERNET

How to create a shortcut to a file or folder in Windows

IF you have a file, such as your diary or logbook, or a folder, such as Finances, you might find it helpful to be able to get to it quickly, rather than having to go through several stages to find it wherever you buried it in your computer each time. So you can create a shortcut (or alias in a Mac), which can sit where you like (such as your desktop) so you can open it quickly and easily.

You obviously wouldn’t want too many shortcuts on your desktop, otherwise it would defeat the whole object of finding it quickly!!

What you change when you use this shortcut will also be changed in the original.

1. Find the document you want to use – e.g. go through Documents library 2. Right-click the folder, document, picture, video or any other file you want to use to make a shortcut.

3. Hover on Send to: and click on desktop (create Shortcut) 4. You will now have a copy of that file/folder/video etc on your desktop, so just double-click it whenever you want to open it to use it.

How to create a shortcut to a file or folder on a Mac. 1. Find the document you want to use – e.g. go to Finder and click Documents.

2. Ctrl-click the folder, document, picture, video or any other file you want to use. In this example, I'm going to use Shopping List → 3. Click on Make Alias.

4. This creates a shortcut/alias, which has a little black arrow over the icon.

5. Now just click and hold and drag it to the desktop. Or copy and paste if you prefer.

Submitted by IT for the Terrified : The Old Cowshed, Station Road, Cheddar BS27 3AG 01934 741751 www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com We also run a Computer Club Drop in session 1.30-3.30 Thursday afternoons. Call in for a quick word of advice/help/info. This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. For more in depth information, please contact us. We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you; a session lasts 2 hours and costs £10.

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 XP/Vista/W7/W8: Macs: Tablets: iPads: smartphones.

See our website or contact us for further details.

Or if you can spare two hours a week and have skills on any level with any type of computer that you would like to share with others, please get in touch. Our AGM will be held on Thursday, 13th November at 4pm. All welcome

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 1. Covering hell’s river (4) 3. Disgruntled Ferrari team lack engineering for stability under tread (5,5) 9. Find an opening in the Tea Rooms near West Harptree (4) 10. Ere a moment of uncertainty, ‘twill give a certain movement of air (10) 11. Die is cast in work of tragic figure (7) 13. Born, died, less said - gone are troubles (7) 14. I sat as Laura changed place (11) 18. Wrapped up warm after another marathon defeat (6,5) 21. New net I researched on web (7) 22. The maniac he’d dared to confront held the key to a settlement (7) 23. Chanel drew out writer causing a stink 24. Priests trickery lacks credibility (4) 25. Relationship between former editor and troubled holy man has sense of déjà vu (10) 26. Jangle keys to residence (4)

DOWN 1. Unthinkable for chivalrous assassin? (3,5) 2. Incompetent cops find themselves framed (8) 4. Three points is enough for champion (5) 5. Remember I’m sincere! (insincerely) (9) 6. Dangerous woman forces me back to back at football drama (5,6) 7. Freak out baton holder (6) 8. A reason others stop (6) 12. Rabble suffer, grow and find something to seal the deal (8,3) 15. Behold! It hesitates again having synergy with those who wait (9) 16. A main road leads vet to animal sanctuary and its first entry (8) 17. I stand by shifting sand, both sides having aspects that excite (8) 19. The times lads lose form...

(6) 20. A drinks bar has quieter side for member of political elite (6) 22. Pain following coronary is hard to pinpoint (5) Compiled by Felkov

Answers on Page 121

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 21

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MENDIP TIMES

Treats – and a few tricks

HALF-term, Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night are all upon us in the space of a week at the end of October. It’s a celebration of the end of harvest, dark nights and spirits, and fire ceremonies.

The bright colour orange is everywhere, in pumpkins and squashes and flames, to With JUNE counteract chilly nights. And here are some MACFARLANE warm ideas for Trick or Treaters and their firework-lighting parents.

MINI BUTTERNUT SQUASH PASTIES

Blackcurrant cassis marshmallows

Butternut squash is just made to make children eat their veg (actually it’s a fruit of course); it’s a wonderful colour and tastes sweet. I often use it in ravioli at this time of year, but you can’t very well hand round ravioli at the door, so here are some little pasties to offer instead of chocolate when the ghouls come knocking. Why not (the trick is in the amaretti biscuits)?

METHOD

Pre-heat the oven to 200˚ Celsius. Put the squash in a roasting tin.

Anoint with the olive oil, salt and pepper and mix with your hands.

Roast for about 20 mins until tender. Allow to cool a little then process to a purée. Turn into a bowl and cool completely. Add

VEGETABLE TAGINE INGREDIENTS

Large can chickpeas, drained and rinsed Half a jar of roasted red peppers, cut into bite sized pieces 1 onion, chopped 2 courgettes, cut into bite sized pieces 12 ready to eat dried apricots salt, pepper olive oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed and chopped 2 tsp paprika 1 tsp ground ginger 2 tsp ground cumin 500g carton tomato passata

This looks so lovely and colourful, a delicious combination of vegetables, chickpeas and sweet apricot, and, without meat, it is light and easy to digest. Serve it around the bonfire with couscous or a baked potato (a slow cooker is excellent for this dish).

METHOD

Put the chickpeas, peppers, onion, squash, courgettes and apricots in a slow cooker or a large lidded casserole. Fry the garlic and spices for a minute or two in a pan. Add the passata and bring to the boil.

Pour over the vegetables and stir to mix. Cook in a medium oven (175˚) for about an hour, or on high in the slow cooker for about four hours, until vegetables are tender. Check seasoning.

PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

biscuits, juice and ginger; taste for seasoning.

Roll out pastry and cut circles with a large cutter. Place a teaspoon of filling to one side of the circle, dampen the edges and fold over to make a little pasty. Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper.

Continue until the pastry is used up.

Make an egg wash with the egg and brush over the pasties lightly. Bake at 180˚ until puffed and golden – about 20 mins.

INGREDIENTS

1 roll ready made puff pastry 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into chunks 2 tbsp olive oil salt, pepper 6 amaretti biscuits, crushed big squeeze orange juice ½ tsp ground ginger 1 egg

BLACKCURRANT CASSIS MARSHMALLOWS

A brilliant trick! Marshmallows are the new cup cakes and this is my version of one from The Marshmallowists. Halfway through this recipe you will think it is never going to work, but it DOES! And you will be unbelievably pleased with yourself! (N.B. If you are thinking of making them with children please read the method very carefully; there are parts of it that children could do, but not the bit with the boiling sugar syrup).

METHOD

INGREDIENTS

180g blackcurrant purée, well sieved to remove pips 240g liquid glucose 300g granulated white sugar 13 leaves of gelatine soaked in 200g cold water tasteless vegetable oil 30ml cassis liqueur or blackcurrant cordial Icing sugar and cornflour

Put the granulated sugar, 120g glucose and 80g blackcurrant purée in a heavy bottomed saucepan and heat until a sugar thermometer registers 112˚. Put the remaining purée, and 120g glucose, into a mixer and whisk on low speed. Melt the soaked gelatine in a microwave on full for 1 min. When the purée sugar syrup has reached 112˚ pour it slowly into the mixer, whisking the while, avoiding the whisk or the hot syrup may splatter. Add the melted gelatine to the mixture and increase the speed to medium. When the mixture starts to thicken increase the speed to high until it holds its shape. Add the cassis or cordial and whisk for a further minute on high. The mixture should have quadrupled in volume.

Meanwhile line a roasting tin with cling film and oil all over lightly. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the tin. Leave to set for at least four hours.

Make a 50/50 mixture of icing sugar and cornflour. Dust the work surface with it generously. Turn out the marshmallow and cut carefully with a hot, wet knife. Cut cubes and dust with the mixture. Keep in an airtight container.

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Thatchers apple day

Lucy and Katie Loach enjoy picking apples in the Thatchers orchards during their Made in North Somerset event

AS part of this year’s Made in North Somerset celebrations, Thatchers welcomed around 80 people to their orchards at Myrtle Farm for a morning of apple picking and pressing.

Mariet Hulsebos, customer marketing manager at Thatchers said: “September is a very special month here at Thatchers, as the apples start to be harvested. There’s always such a beautiful aroma in the air.”

The Made in North Somerset festival, now in its fourth year, takes place every autumn and is co-ordinated by the Economic Development Service at North Somerset Council.

FOOD & DRINK

Christmas Fair

Sunday 7th December 2014 11am – 4pm Refreshments Available

Tel: 01761 221382

Email enquiries@thewellsway.co.uk www.thewellsway.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 23

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MENDIP TIMES

Best in the south west

Quintessential English country pub | Under new management and refurbished | Log fires | Imaginative seasonal menus Events catering | Garden | Dogs and horses welcome (biscuits and carrots provided) Friday 31 October Lots of fun for Halloween, prize for best fancy dress effort Wednesday 5 November Enjoy our explosive Guy Fawkes supper, served until 10.30pm

Christmas Menu

(available late November - 30 December)

Two courses £17 • Three courses £21 STARTERS Garlic mushrooms, cream, parsley, thyme, soft toasted ciabatta bread V Roasted beetroot and apple soup, parsnip crisps V Rosemary and garlic brie wedges, panko breadcrumbs, cranberry compote V Game terrine, spiced plum and apple chutney, sourdough toast Smoked haddock, leek and spinach risotto

MAIN COURSES Slow cooked turkey with all the trimmings Pan fried salmon fillet, crushed new potatoes, capers, spinach, champagne and white wine sauce Belly of pork, sage mash, Chantenay carrots, green beans, apple and honey mustard sauce Blade of beef, parsnip mash, roasted shallots, silver skin onions, savoy cabbage, red wine jus Roasted root vegetable Wellington, goat’s cheese, kale, green beans, rosemary jus V PUDDINGS Treacle tart, clotted cream, stem ginger Christmas pudding, brandy sauce Chocolate cheesecake, winter berry coulis Winter cranachan of mulled winter berries, ginger oatmeal, whiskey ice cream Christmas cheese board (supplement £3)

A store above the rest: Shellie and Phil outside their awardwinning village shop

PHIL and Shellie Critchley are celebrating after Croscombe Village Stores was named the best village shop in the south west of England.

The shop opened in February 2009 after a buy-out of the former Bungalow Stores by a village-run community group. Since then, Phil and Shellie have championed local produce, including homemade marmalade, local honey and cider.

Croscombe Village Stores scored 100 per cent with the judges in the Taste of the West Awards 2014, ranging from the range of products on sale to cleanliness and quality of service.

In their summary comments, the judges said: “It would be good if the villagers of Croscombe could support this shop more enthusiastically. They are very lucky to have such an excellent village shop.”

Shellie said: “We were delighted just to reach the finals and attend the presentation night. It was only when the judges notes were read out and we recognised our marmalade that we realised we had actually won!”

Rickford celebrates

Tea or coffee included after the meal We are giving a £10 food voucher valid for January and February 2015 to every guest who books the Christmas menu If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, please make them known at the time of ordering as some dishes may contain additional ingredients.

Wherever possible, we source our ingredients from local suppliers. To make the most of the carefully selected produce, your food is cooked to order and may sometimes take a little longer to be served. We always do our best to serve you as quickly and efficiently as we can.

V – Vegetarian Booking and deposit required

See in the New Year at The Strode Arms with canapés and a delicious menu – book a table now to join in the fun.

Tel 01749 880 450 | info@thestrodearms.co.uk www.thestrodearms.co.uk East Cranmore Lane | Cranmore Shepton Mallet | Somerset BA4 4QJ PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

THE villagers of Rickford have gathered in the apple harvest of their community orchard, celebrating the tenth anniversary of them planting 50 new trees to revitalise the old village orchard.

To celebrate they raised a cup of mulled juice, made from the last few bottles of the 2013 pressing. The 2014 pressing has yielded 540 bottles of lovely fresh tangy tasting apple juice.

Details: Barry 01761 462499

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Join the great Glasto bakers!

FOOD & DRINK

THE RED LION VILLAGE PUB & RESTAURANT Sutton Hill Road, Bishop Sutton BS39 5UT

01275 333042

Taking individual bookings and group bookings for Xmas meals.

Please see our website www.redlionbishopsutton.co.uk to view our menus Restaurant food at pub prices, in a warm and friendly environment, created by award winning chef Scott Lucas.

Lunch and dinner service Mon-Sat Sunday food served all day The Red Lion – the pub at the heart of the community

EXTENDED OPENING HOURS! Monday, 4.30pm – close • Tues, Wed, Thurs 12noon-2.30pm and 4.30pm-close • Friday Saturday and Sunday – open all day

Bakers Louise Whetstone and Peter Phillips are regular stallholders at Glastonbury Country Market

GLASTONBURY Country Market has a strong reputation for the quality of its arts and crafts on sale in the town hall each Tuesday – as does its produce section.

But now organisers are appealing for more people with baking skills to join the team producing sweet and savoury delights on a regular basis.

Would-be bakers do not have to have any experience of country markets but a willingness to become part of a friendly team who attract regular customers and new visitors. The market is also looking for someone to supply fresh, free range eggs.

Anyone who would like to find out more information about the market should call in and meet the team. The market is open from 9.30am-12.30pm every Tuesday.

THE QUEEN ADELAIDE BLAGDON

01761 463926

Travelling through, walking local trails, or living in the village, if the doors are open – come in and enjoy what Blagdon’s little country pub has to offer.

Booking highly recommended

BOOKING NOW FOR CHRISTMAS!

GOOD FOOD, LAGER, ALES AND LOCAL CIDER

GLUTEN-FREE ON WEDNESDAYS

Christmas roasts

RICHARDS West Country Hog Roasts, based at Crickham, near Wedmore can offer pork, beef or lamb, spit-roasted not oven baked, accompanied by separate crunchy crackling and home-made stuffing and apple sauce.

Now established 15 years they specialise in weddings, private parties and corporate events. At this time of year they specialise in Christmas parties.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 25

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MENDIP TIMES

Trading faces at L&F Jones

L&F JONES Food Services near Midsomer Norton has hosted its second annual catering tradeshow, offering customers and suppliers the chance to meet under one roof.

More than 50 trade stands, offering everything from coffee and cakes to cider and champagne, filled the aisles of the trade centre.There were also butchery demonstrations by award-winning Paul Loader and cookery demonstrations by Tom Bally and Sean Horwood, executive chefs at the nearby Centurion Hotel.

Amongst the visitors were catering students from the Blue School in Wells.

The L&F Jones management team welcomed dozens of visitors to the tradeshow

Martin Jones (left) chatting to Andy Llewellin, from Bristol-based Total Produce

Jane Dunford, Sue Gait and Rob Norman, from Beans and Machines, were kept busy all day PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Tom and Sean on the cookery demonstration stand

Some of the trade stands at the show

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GARDEN FOOD

Sweet chestnuts

WHILE perhaps not for your average garden, sweet chestnuts are a great thing to plant if you have the space, providing as they do good starchy food for very little work.

After experimenting with small scale grain production for several years, and With JAKE finding it back breaking and impractical, I WHITSON started to look for more trouble free staple crops, and after stumbling upon Martin Crawford's 'Creating a forest garden' found out that sweet chestnuts are one of the easiest staple crops that you can grow in our climate.

Sweet chestnuts have a nutritional content which is very similar to rice and cultivars selected for heavy cropping can, after getting established, yield around the same amount per acre as organic wheat – and all this without ever having to till, harrow or sow. Harvesting on a large scale can be problematic, but there are solutions and if you just have a few trees in your garden then it is easy enough to harvest by hand or with a 'Nut wizard' (a hand held device which you roll along to ground to pick up nuts).

If you do decide to take the plunge then go for grafted trees from named cultivars such as 'Marigoule' or 'Precoce de Migoule' – these trees will cost more, but they will start fruiting in 2-3 years (as opposed to possibly decades for a seedling tree) and will yield more reliably and heavily. Plant them in a sunny, sheltered spot and they will grow rapidly – pinch off any nuts that form in the first year as you want the tree to put energy into roots. For details of harvesting and long-term storage I will point in the direction of the aforementioned book.

Given their nutritional similarity to rice, I decided to experiment along the lines of a sweet chestnut pudding, modelled on a classic rice pudding and I'm delighted with the results. Here's the recipe – coarsely grate about 100g of fresh peeled sweet chestnuts and mix with 25g of sugar, 400ml of milk and a good pinch of cinnamon in a baking dish. Bake at gas mark 4 for about 40 minutes or until a good brown crust has formed.

Jacob Whitson is a chef and food writer who has worked in many of the West Country’s most prestigious restaurants. He is currently working on his first book, a travelogue detailing the regional foods of Japan.

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

Two very happy foragers

FORAGING can be a bit hit and miss. You have to be patient, play the long game and take advantage when an opportunity presents itself. For example, the nuts of the beech tree (known as masts) seem to be on a cycle of every four or five years – some experts believe even this can be up to eight years.

With ADRIAN That’s not to say that they don’t produce at BOOTS all during this period, it’s just that a really bumper harvest seems to come around on quite a long timescale.

That’s a long time for a forager but beech trees seem happy to make us wait for the right conditions. Fortunately this has been a good year and that also means a good year for our friendly garden squirrel, known affectionately as ‘Squitter’. Don’t ask it’s a long story.

Beech (Fagus sylvatica) is a large deciduous tree with smooth grey bark up to 40m tall. The leaves are bright green, oval shaped and alternate on the twig. Inside the hairy brown husk resides the three-sided nuts which are best collected September to November. Beech trees are common and widespread throughout the UK. The name ‘Fagus’ comes from the Latin word ‘to eat’ yet historically in Britain it seems that beech masts were fed more commonly to animals than people, probably along with acorns as part of pannage rights in areas of wood-pasture. Masts gained popularity during times of famine when food was scarce, but quickly fell out of favour again.

I suspect this is in part due to the very fiddly nature of removing the small nut from the outer husk and the difficulty of any subsequent processing. One has to collect an awful lot of these to make a meal yet they taste great raw or roasted and in my opinion make a very good substitute for pine nuts sprinkled on a salad or crushed up in a wild pesto. Beech masts have also been used for making a coffee substitute, cooking and salad oils, fuel oil for lanterns and even butter.

Now Squitter has been extremely busy this autumn burying his nuts, which he has been doing with some vigour. If he forgets where they are buried there is a good chance little beech seedlings will appear in the garden next year. We shall have to wait and see, call it an experiment and another great excuse not to mow the lawn.

Every year Squitter and I have a little competition going, namely guessing when the nuts are ready to collect. He always wins. This year has been different with such an abundance of fruit and nuts that both our respective larders are full to the brim. That makes us two very happy foragers indeed!

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

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 27

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MENDIP TIMES

Crowds flock to food festival

THIS year’s Wells Food Festival was a feast for all the senses and attracted thousands of people to enjoy the best of local produce and expertise.

Special events such as an Italian-themed Sunday lunch in the Undercroft of the Bishop’s Palace and an equally lavish lunch featuring foraged produce in the Bishop’s Barn were combined with bustling street markets and even a vintage tea party in the Town Hall.

Organisers Paddy O’Hagan and Anne Furniss said they were overwhelmed by the popularity of the second festival of its Guests at the Italian Lunch in the Bishop’s kind.

The scene inside the food marquee in the Market Place

Pumpkins of all varieties on sale in the Market Place

Palace

Falling leaves? A detail from one of the many cakes entered into a competition in the Town Hall

Members of Wells WI prepare to serve customers at the vintage tea party

Lynda Dixon ran an outside bakery

So much choice – the Queen Street Deli cheese stall

Christine Winter (left) and Muriel Edwards study the festival guide

Baker Phil Nicodemi from Lovington

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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FOOD & DRINK

Supporting sustainability in Somerset

FOR the past three years, Your Power has been actively supporting Somerset Farmers’ Markets across the county as they seek to connect local people with local produce and reestablish traditional trading practices.

These local retail events by Somerset Farmers’ Markets provide a low carbon way to ensure that local income is kept within the local economy. In turn, the markets support local growers, producers and manufacturers. A spokeswoman for Your Power said: “We live and work in the same area so it makes sense for us to support our local economy in whatever way we can.”

A low carbon way of life has renewable energy at its heart - a sustainable and local source of power that is not at the mercy of global energy price fluctuations. Your Power says it is hugely proud to help people in Somerset as householders, business owners and farmers to increase their energy independence through solar power generation.

Solar PV yields from agricultural premises often match exactly the energy requirements of farms or downstream agricultural enterprises with highly predictable income and savings. One Somerset farmer who has recently installed solar PV on his buildings said: “Since the installation the system generation levels have been brilliant. I’m producing over 300 kWhrs per day when the sun is out and every time I go past the inverters they seem to be happily humming.”

Earlier in October, Your Power participated in the 10th birthday celebrations for Keynsham Farmers’ Market as one of the key sponsors and will continue in its support for Somerset Farmers’ Markets and its members.

Your Power is currently offer a special referral offer: £200 for all domestic installations and £500-£1,000 for 10KW+ systems. Call them on 01225 667151 or email info@yourpoweruk.com to find out how you can receive income from the sun.

NOVEMBER 2014 DATES

Wells: every Wednesday 9am-2.30pm at the Market Place All other markets 9am-1pm unless otherwise marked*

Saturday 1st Axbridge & Midsomer Norton Sunday 2nd SFM@ The Frome Independent (10am-3pm)* Saturday 8th Frome & Keynsham Saturday 15th Crewkerne Saturday 22ndGlastonbury & Yeovil (9am-2pm)* Friday 28th

Burnham-on-Sea

follow us @SFMMarkets For more information phone 01373 814646 or visit www.SomersetFarmersMarkets.co.uk

Powering Farming’s Future Tel: 01225 667151 Web: www.yourpoweruk.com

New faces at the Waldegrave Arms

TRISTAN and Caroline Easter have taken over the well-known gastro pub, The Waldegrave Arms in East Harptree!

Tristan, is an accomplished, classically trained chef, who has worked in many award-winning establishments throughout East Anglia and London, including a spell as head chef at the famous Stirling Restaurant at The Gherkin.

The highlight of his career, so far, was cooking for HRH The Prince of Wales at St James's Palace.

Caroline forms the other half of the team bringing a wealth of experience 'front of house'. Before starting their family she was bar and restaurant manager at a major UK resort hotel.

This is a move home for Tristan, who was born and raised in Keynsham. Both Tristan, Caroline and their three children Kitty, Maisie and George and Lenny the dog are really excited about the move and look forward to becoming an active part of East Harptree's community.

They have some great events planned, so why not drop to say hello; you can be assured of a warm and friendly welcome.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 29

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Celebrate the festive season at The Holcombe Inn We are now taking bookings for Christmas Day Lunch, party bookings and New Year’s Eve. See our website for all details and menus.

The Holcombe Inn promises a beautiful, festively-decorated restaurant with roaring log fires and delicious Christmas menus.

A Christmas gift

A choice of Christmas Party Menus available from £21.00 Our ever-popular

New Years Eve Banquet & Dnancing

(Dance Floor And DJ) • £45 Per Perso er Ticket includes table and banquet supp ! r u o m l a G & t z l i G . . . r a e y i s t h s e s Dr ms for the night?

Why not book one of our luxury roo

The Holcombe Inn

Stratton Road, Holcombe, Bath BA3 5EB. Tel: 01761 232478 • Fax: 01761 233737.

E-mail: bookings@holcombeinn.co.uk Website: www.holcombeinn.co.uk

The Seymour Arms

Bath Road, Blagdon, Bristol BS40 7TH T: 01761 462279 W: www.theseymourarmsblagdon.co.uk E: info@theseymourarmsblagdon.co.uk

Christmas 2014 Menu Cauliflower & stilton soup Pan fried scallops with parsnip puree, sherry caramel & chervil Game terrine with pickled onion Monegasque Twice baked parmesan soufflé Home smoked potted salmon and brown shrimp with grilled sour dough Crispy suckling pork belly with black pudding & celeriac Oven roasted Cornish hake with braised puy lentils & salsa verde Garlic and chestnut stuffed rabbit leg with crisp pancetta, mustard & red watercress Roast rump of Somerset lamb with Jerusalem artichoke, wilted spinach & heritage carrots Blagdon butcher 8oz ribeye (21 day aged) with hand cut chips & green salad Truffle pecorino gnocchi with wild mushrooms and rocket Monkfish bourride with saffron potatoes & tomato Fresh figs poached in mulled port with sabayon & tuille biscuit Chestnut and chocolate terrine with cinnamon crème anglaise Coffee rum baba Apple and mincemeat strudel with Calvados ice cream Clementine tart with candied orange and Chantilly ree English cheeses with country pickle and crackers Enjoy two courses for £29.50 per person or three courses for £32.50

Opening times: Tues – Thurs noon – 11pm, Fri – Sat noon – midnight Sun noon – 11pm Food served all day Tuesday until Saturday, and traditional Sunday lunch served noon – 3pm.

PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

JON Thorner’s has been helping serve Christmas dinners for nearly 40 years. No matter how small or large your celebrations are, and whatever your budget, the secret to making it go off without a hitch lies in forward planning.

Christmas is never about just one meal, so they have an impressive collection of foods for those special occasions over the festive period. The award-winning butcher pride themselves on the quality of the produce offered, which is sourced locally whenever possible.

This year customers ordering for Christmas, will have the chance to receive their order absolutely free! Five lucky customers will be chosen at random and when the order is collected from your chosen butchery counter, you will pay nothing. All winners will be notified by Friday December 19th.

Details: www.jonthorners.co.uk

Chew Valley cook book

CHEW Stoke WI members have brought out a cook book to help raise money for Chew Stoke Church Hall’s renovation fund.

It contains recipes from many members of the group, which have Pictured (left to right) WI members Mary Dowson and Anthea Barley, with the Rev been compiled by Victor Barley, who is holding a copy of the Val Knight with the book help of Mary Sommerville, both committee members, and printed by local company, Geni Printing.

Member, Mary Dowson, said: “There are recipes for starters, main course, puddings and cakes – in fact everything that the home cook needs for ringing the changes to the family menu!”

Detais: marydowson@btinternet.com and the price is £6.

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FOOD & DRINK

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Kilmersdon Apple Day

Members of the Beetlecrushers with two of the team doing another sort of crushing

JUICE pressing, dancing and competitions were the order of the day when villagers in Kilmersdon held their annual Apple Day. People brought along their own apples to be pressed and bottled, whilst the Beeltecrushers entertained inside the village hall.

Everything had an apple theme, from the apple cake competitions to the afternoon teas.

First for orchard

From cider to toffee apples – the event celebrated all things apple-y

RESIDENTS in the hamlet of Stoney Stratton, near Evercreech, have held their first ever apple day event.

The afternoon celebrated one of the hamlet’s orchards and was the idea of Jane Neill, whose family farmed the land for years.

Ted Allen shakes apples from one of the trees ahead of pressing

The Carpenters Tavern

Bookings now being taken for Christmas parties!

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU 2 courses - £17.95 • 3 courses - £20.95

To Start

Wells Road, Dundry, BS41 8NE

Leek & Potato Soup Smoked Mackerel with Crostini Classic Prawn Cocktail Trio of Melon

Main Courses

Slow Roast Turkey with homemade cranberry sauce and bread sauce Salmon Supreme with honey roasted Winter vegetable risotto and a tomato & basil sauce Braised Pheasant with red wine, mushroom & shallot Spiced Parsnip & Honey Nut Loaf Pork Tenderloin with black pudding mousse on a bed of mash

all served with seasonal vegetables and accompaniments

For restaurant bookings please call 0117 964 6423

Desserts

Traditional Christmas Pudding and brandy sauce Raspberry Eton Mess Homemade Cheesecake Selection of Ice Creams

To Finish

Coffee & Mince Pies

www.carpenterstavern.co.uk PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Jane Neill in Neill’s orchard

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FOOD & DRINK FARRINGTON’S will be holding a Christmas preview evening on Wednesday, November 19th, 3pm-9pm, with a chance to sample lots of home-made goodies, meet local producers and find

the perfect gift.

The children can also enjoy the playbarn, where Father Christmas will be in residence every weekend in December.

Autumn & Winter at BEAH • Breakfast Menu available from 10am – noon • New lunch menu from 12noon – 2pm (3pm on Saturdays) • New Prix fixe Dinner menu: £12 for two courses £16 for three courses • Full a la carte menu with daily specials • Bespoke menus for private parties from 20–60 upstairs in our ‘Chapel’ function room • Christmas Lunch & Dinner party menus available now

Christmas Party Menu Starters Smoked bacon & white bean soup Tuna tartare with fennel coleslaw Ricotta cheese & cranberry parcels (V) with rocket & red chard salad Kefta briouats with tomato & coriander salsa & yoghurt dip Mains Somerset turkey with all the trimmings Turkey & apricot tagine with cous cous Lamb shank & prune tagine with cous cous Sole tricolour in white wine & tomato sauce seasonal vegetables Chunky vegetable paella with rustic artisan bread

• Looking for a less formal Christmas party this year?

Find out more about our Christmas buffet party menu. Email or call for details

Puddings Christmas pudding with winter berry compote Fig & pistachio cheesecake Chocolate crepe filled with cointreau cream

• OPEN FOR CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH – RESERVE YOUR TABLE NOW

Somerset cheeseboard (£2.50 supplement)

Find us at Union Street, Wells Call 01749 678111 Email: info@beah.co.uk

2 courses £18.50 3 courses £22.50

www.beah.co.uk Relaxed and friendly dining in the heart of Wells MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 33

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Under one roof – food and drink fes

THE first Somerset Food and Drink Fest brought around 100 producers and suppliers under one roof at the Royal Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet.

Cookery demonstrations, live music and events for children meant there was something for everyone. The two-day show helped to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West and saw the Showering Pavilion transformed into a bustling market.

LUNCH from £14.95 EVENING from £22.95 Sophia, Amelia and Louisa have a go at applecrushing on a stand run by Big Community Grow from Trowbridge w ith s Ne w cial u en pe M ly s i da

Independent Coffee Shop in Wells Funky Teas and Seasonal Coffee Home-Cooked Food Great atmosphere Friendly dogs welcome in our courtyard Outside covered area Retro/Vintage furniture and Music (all furniture and objects are for sale) Tues to Sat 8.30am- 5.30pm (closed Sunday and Monday) Now available for private evening bookings and Xmas evening meals (see our Xmas menu on Facebook or come and browse over a coffee) Find us on Trip Advisor

0 1 7 4 9 67 1 1 66

2 Town Hall Buildings, Wells B A5 1SE coffee@square-edgecafe.co.uk PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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FOOD & DRINK

rink k f e st su c c e ss

Chef Mark Lees prepares to demonstrate the art of cooking crayfish

The Showering Pavilion was packed with producers and public

Graham and Tracy Walton organised the event and are pictured with daughters Maria and Jess

e GEORGE and DRAGON CHILDREN’S FANCY DRESS HALLOWEEN PARTY FRIDAY 31st OCTOBER – 6-7.30pm £2.00 PER CHILD (INCLUDES FOOD, FACE PAINTING AND ENTERTAINMENT).

ADULTS’ FANCY DRESS HALLOWEEN EVENING SATURDAY 1st NOVEMBER – 8 TILL LATE

Barry and Niki Horwood welcome you to their newly refurbished village pub.

BEER GARDEN Children and dog friendly

FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

Open Monday to Saturday 11am – 11pm Sunday 11.30am – 10.30pm Traditional food served all day, Sunday lunch £6.95

High Street, Pensford BS39 4BH. Telephone: 01761 490156 MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 35

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EVENTS

Priston Festival

Mr Wilkin's Shilling The village green was packed

The Greatness of the Magnificence Fantasy Orchestra Kid's Art Project – willow animals

Free village green stage

Storyworld

Riders raise funds for air ambulance WELLS Classic Motorcycle Club presented £2,000 to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance at their annual general meeting and awards presentation at the Britannia Inn in Wells.

The money was raised by its fourth annual Tortoise and Hare run which attracted 150 entries from around the country and the support of many local businesses.

The event, based in Wells, goes through some of the outstanding local countryside. It has become a popular event in the West Country and is open to bikes of all ages. Next year’s event is on June 7th.

Details: www.wellsclassicmotorcycleclub.co.uk

PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Winter warmers

Jackets G Fleeces G Walking Boots G Bags G Hats, Gloves G Travel Clothing G

No. 1 Broad Street Congresbury BS49 5DG 01934 877333 www.countryinnovation.com

ECATCHER MOL CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY

Duvets & Bedspreads washed & dried Sheets and Duvet covers washed and pressed Professional efficient service Collection & delivery service in the Chew Valley

Tel 01761 451787

www.cameleylodgelaundry.co.uk

NO MOLE NO FEE Telephone 01275 332966 mendipmolecatcher.co.uk

WITH the chill in the air it’s the ideal time of year for a lovely, soft microfleece top and Country Innovation in Broad Street, Congresbury are giving you the opportunity to buy one at a fantastic HALF PRICE offer of ONLY £15.

The tops are the perfect layer under an outer waterproof jacket when out stomping the hills, or simply as a comfortable top to wear for everyday use. There’s men’s and ladies’ to choose from and they are of superb quality, dead easy to wash and dry in minutes. They also make great Christmas presents!

Charlton’s award

A.J. CHARLTON and Son Ltd from Frome was named Family Business of the Year in the Somerset Business Awards.

Founder ‘A.J.’ is pictured receiving the award from Paul Hake, from sponsors Albert Goodman. He said: “What a surprise! I want to thank all of my wonderful family and our amazing staff – we wouldn’t be where we are today, and so successful, without you. I couldn’t ask for anymore from you all, so thank you!”

The business was founded in 1903 by his grandfather, Frank.

A.J., who is chief executive, is still working at the age of 85, alongside eight other members of the family.

Promotion for Emma

AS Red Berry has grown over the years, so have the skills and development of the staff within the company. A shining example of this is Emma Haskins, who over the last four years has developed her role whilst working at the company.

Starting as an administrator and moving on to be PA to the managing director, Emma has shown great skill and aptitude in the world of social media and marketing and has been promoted to be the company’s Social Media Manager.

Helen Lacey, the company’s managing director, said: “Emma’s natural ability to understand the importance of social media and all the different ways to help us market ourselves has been invaluable, it’s a natural progression for Emma’s skills.”

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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BUSINESS

Old Mill award

ACCOUNTANTS and financial planners Old Mill have won the prestigious Institute of Financial Planning’s David Norton award for building excellence.

The Wells-based firm that also has offices in Exeter, Yeovil, Dorchester and Melksham, finished runner-up last year.

Paula Hodge, head of financial planning at Old Mill, said: “Having come so close to winning last year, we very much took the judges’ feedback on board and have worked hard to further develop and refine the Old Mill financial planning experience. The application process is detailed and demanding and to finally receive this recognition from the IFP is such a great endorsement for us and testament to our continuing commitment to evolve our financial planning proposition and gives us the reassurance that we are very much on the right track.”

The IFP David Norton award is given in memory of former society president David Norton.

This award is considered by many to be the highest accolade for the financial planning profession and is awarded to those firms that are judged as building excellence in their financial planning business and are committed and have the potential to provide the very highest quality of financial planning services to their clients.

Steve Gazzard, chief executive of the IFP and one of the judges, said: “Old Mill has taken a large advisory business and formed a financial planning business with a real focus on professional development, effective client segmentation, and aligning remuneration and rewards with financial planning related positive client outcomes.”

JG MARQUEES HAS A VERY BUSY 2015 – STAFF REQUIRED

Must enjoy working outdoors, physically fit.

We are looking for FULL TIME MARQUEE ERECTOR/RIGGER (no experience required, will train for an excellent long-term future). To work in a small team, erecting marquees and installing furnishings. During the winter, assisting with minor duties on the farm.

Monday – Friday 8.30- 5.30. Must have driving licence, ideally with 7.5t lorry licence, if not we will get you trained.

FULL TIME FOR SPRING/SUMMER (6 + months) Helping with marquees, must have a car driving licence.

STUDENTS FOR SUMMER – some keen, able bodies home from University, own transport to get to work is important.

Will be looking to fill these vacancies in the spring.

Pay will depend upon experience etc.

CV to: Jeremy Griffin, info@jgmarquees.co.uk JG Marquees, Nettwood Farm, East Harptree, Bristol BS40 6DA. Tel 01761 221366

HANDMADE ARTISAN RUGS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

£1 books and massive online selection!

Family friendly with Children's area Free spacious parking and Free WiFi www.bookbarninternational.com bookbarn@bookbarninternational.com 01761 451 333

The Full Stop Café offers delicious, original locally sourced home-made food, and fresh coffee.

A

G R E AT

at Bookbarn International, Wells Road, Hallatrow, Bristol BS39 6EX 01761 451 764 www.orientalrugsofbath.com

C L E A N I N G • R E S TO R AT I O N • VA L U AT I O N

DAY

O U T, A L L

IN

ONE

L O C AT I O N !

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 39

Alista

Photo by Ignyte Limited, Radstock.

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Christmas shopping in Winscombe

2

WINSCOMBE’S Christmas shopping night will take place on Tuesday December 2nd. All the shops in the village will be open late along with some of the many businesses that Winscombe has to offer.

A section of Woodborough Road will be closed to allow shoppers to wander in safety and soak up the atmosphere. Winscombe Choir will be singing Christmas carols and there will be children’s sit-on rides and a bouncy castle.

Santa will arrive on his sleigh and you can also expect to see donkeys. The shops will be offering everything from face painting to wine tasting, cakes, mulled wine, floral decorations, health advice, pork rolls, gift ideas and a whole lot more.

Go along and join in the fun and get all you need for Christmas. The fun will start from 5pm and go on throughout the evening.

December

Winscombe Fish Bar

Traditional high quality food from friendly and reliable staff

Litsters Traditional Butcher

Mon Tues Weds 11.30–2pm and 5–10pm Thurs 11.30–2pm and 5–10.30pm Fri Sat 11.30–2.30pm and 5–10.30pm

Gluten and wheat-free night the last Sunday of every month

1, Sandford Road, Winscombe

01934 843666

Booking now for Christmas 27 Woodborough Road Winscombe North Somerset BS25 1AG

01934 842248 Mob: 07772 007128

clivelitster@tiscali.co.uk

BIRDS BAKERY

M I N G! CHRISTMAS I S COinc e pie s ngs • M C h r i s t m as p u d d i S p e c i a l i t y b r e ad s

e c e m b e r 2n d Op e n u nt il 9 p m D

Tel: Winscombe 01934 842210 PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Storage solutions WINTER is approaching, so it’s time to store outdoor equipment. If you are struggling for space Coombe

Farm Self Storage are the place to go – for all your storage needs.

With bases at Winscombe and Hewish, they have various size units available starting from 5' x 5' x 7' for £5.50 per week. They are a friendly family business, operating since 2008, and promise easy access and proven security.

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FOCUS ON WINSCOMBE Sophia Cox with her decorated biscuits

Jackie Warren being presented with one of the five trophies she won, including The Community Association Rosebowl for most points in show, by Lin Williams head teacher of Winscombe and Sandford Schools

Photography by Steven Bond

Winscombe feature:Layout 1

WINSCOMBE’S Michaelmas Fair had a bigger attendance and more entries than last year, boosted by the summer sunshine. Its new home-brewing section was also well supported.

The show was opened by David Hitchins, chair of North Somerset Council, to the wonderful sound of the Weston Brass Band. David said he was most impressed to see the efforts the community had gone to for this much-loved annual event.

Organisers are now looking forward to the next 35 years and would welcome more committee members or people to help on the day.

The Evans family with jumbo pumpkin and geraniums

The Leaney family won most points for one family

Sisters Tilda and Lilah Simmons among the school geranium entries

Details: Jill Cureton 01934 843776

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 41

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Wishing you a healthy 2015

HAMPDEN Osteopathic Clinic will be open on Tuesday December 2nd for late night shopping in Winscombe, offering free advice and free 10-minute consultations to discuss any musculoskeletal problems you may have.

This can range from back and neck pain, arthritis, muscle spasms, headaches and sciatica, to shoulder, hip and knee pain.

They can also give specific advice on posture and exercises.

They will have a selection of back care products for sale from neck support pillows to back supports, cold packs and biofreeze gel. Join them for mince pies – they would like to wish all of their patients a very happy Christmas and a healthy new 2015!

24a Woodborough Road, Winscombe North Somerset BS25 1AD For appointments tel: 01934 843617 # # # #

OSTEOPATHY Janet White CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY Danielle Crawshaw ACUPUNCTURE Dan Lloyd REFLEXOLOGY Polly Hall THAI FOOT MASSAGE # HOMEOPATHY Patricia Clark # HYPNOTHERAPY Susan Ritson # HOT STONE, INDIAN & Amy Chandler NATURAL FACELIFT MASSAGE HOPI EAR CANDLING

www.hampdenosteopaths.co.uk

New local card collection

THE Country House Gift Company is an independent Somerset based gift and card shop which has been open since July 2013.

Since opening in Winscombe they have flourished and are working hard to have as many British products and local craftsmen’s work in their shop as possible.

Since opening they have developed a particular passion for greetings cards, which is shared by their customers.

After listening to their feedback and ideas about cards, they decided to have a go at publishing some themselves.

Through their local community they contacted three local illustrators and one local photographer who agreed to work for them and design their very own card collection. It has a total of 46 designs consisting of colourful acrylic characters from artist Carol Tratt, fine pen drawing from Paula Virgo, watercolour and collage from Nadine Wickenden and nature photography from Mark Taylor.

Together the collection covers a wide range of tastes.

They launched the collection on September 26th, when local residents and those from nearby villages joined the celebration and met the local artists.

Elaine Coles, proprietor of the Country House Gift Company said she would like to thank the artists for all their hard work over the past five months. The cards are available from the Winscombe shop.

Colin Coates & Partners Tax advisors For personal tax, business tax and accountancy advice Free initial consultation 01934 844133 • www.ccptax.com Webs House, Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1AD

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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FOCUS ON WINSCOMBE

Charity day

j

A enta

INTERIORS

20%

off the RRP on all our fabrics

FINE FABRICS • BESPOKE WINDOW DRESSINGS • QUALITY FLOORING G Made to measure curtains and all types of blinds.

G Full fitting service including tracks and poles.

G Bespoke rugs made to order.

G Measuring, quote, supply and fitting service for all types of high quality floor coverings.

G Suppliers and installers of natural and unnatural flooring

A MACMILLAN coffee day in Winscombe raised £820 for the charity. It was organised by Lin Simmons, pictured centre, with Julie Johnson-Taylor (left) and Jane Flower.

Julie lost her husband Mike and Jane lost her husband Ian to cancer this summer. The event was held in their memory and attracted a steady stream of people all days.

T 01934 842755 • E info@ajentainteriors.co.uk W www.ajentainteriors.co.uk Ajenta Interiors • 11 Woodborough Road Winscombe • Somerset BS25 1AB

G G G G G G G G

We have an extensive menu and wine list with freshly-prepared daily specials and seasonal favourites Party menus available for all special occasions Hotel accommodation with first class rooms available Skittle alley to hire with a choice of buffet menus.

Excellent disabled access and facilities • Fine wines, real ales and cider Ample car parking. All major credit cards accepted Book on your meal on 01934 844167 or email us onwoodborough.inn@btconnect.com

Cleopatra’s Wardrobe Friendly service Fabulous selection of handbags and accessories Stylish clothing Ladies “candyshop” Fashion accessories G Silver jewellery Brand handbags: Bessie, David Jones Jewellery: About Face, Annabelle Walker Clothing: Ness, N+Willow, Marble

Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas – Claire Cindy and Tracy

36 Woodborough Road Winscombe, Somerset BS25 1AT

01934 843193

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 43

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FOCUS ON WINSCOMBE

Pantry expands

QUINN McCarthy plans to do things in style on Winscombe Festive Night, December 2nd, when he celebrates his second anniversary at this popular bistro and café.

He will be serving pulled pork, with homemade coleslaw and apple sauce, crepes and waffles as well as Belgian hot chocolate, coffees, cakes and more.

The shop will be right in the centre of village celebrations and Quinn plans to make the most of the forecourt in front of the café, so popular with customers on sunny days.

The café has expanded dramatically since he took over, with its large range of hot and cold meals and speciality drinks. A few months ago he started a bistro evening on the last Friday of every month, by reservation only.

Having doubled his turnover since he started, he’s now looking to expand further next year.

10 Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1AA Tel: 01934 842811 We also have offices at Worle and Weston-super-Mare

Residential & Commercial Property Divorce & Family Breakdown Criminal & Motoring Offences Disputes & Dispute Resolution Wills, Trusts & Tax Probate & Estates Special Needs of the Elderly Lasting Powers of Attorney Business Matters Friendly local office with own car park at rear Home visits by arrangement • Quotations given without obligation Contact: Ruth Berry, Roger Burdock, Jack Rogers, Anne Mehlig or Vanessa Dawson

Wishing all of our clients a very Merry Christmas

PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Carnivals bring out the crowds

The carnival season is underway with thousands of people already taking to the streets for two of the curtain raisers for this year’s Somerset Carnival Circuit.

By Mark Adler.

CASTLE CARY CARNIVAL

North Cadbury Brownies parade past the Market House as Mr Men

Castle Cary Children’s Carnival took place a week before the main evening procession

Members of the Rotary Club of Brue Valley were joined by the Wessex Carnival Circuit queen and Doris the Morris, the “official” car for the carnival royalty Quackerside CC with Apocalyse – a striking tableau entry

Castle Cary Majorettes led the procession Cary Comedians in their home procession with Oomp Pah Pah

PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Hot Rock Carnival Club won the Beswick Cup for Hay Day

FROME CARNIVAL

AN estimated 20,000 people lined the streets of Frome for the town’s evening carnival procession.

Organisers were hopeful that one of the biggest turnouts for years would be matched by an increase in collections for the carnival charity. The children’s procession earlier in the day attracted a large number of entries.

CARNIVAL 2014

Imogen, from Frome Guides and Brownies, in 50s costume Marion Parker flying the flag for carnival

Carnival 2014 Frome Majorettes before the start of the evening procession

Hats off to members of the cast of A Chorus Line

Frome mayor Peter Macfadyan and One Planet

Saturday, November 1st: Bridgwater (7pm) Monday, November 3rd: Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea (7.30pm) Friday, November 7th: Weston-super-Mare (7.15pm) Saturday, November 8th: North Petherton (7pm) Monday, November 10th: Midsomer Norton (7.30pm) Wednesday, November 12th: Shepton Mallet (7.30pm) Friday, November 14th: Wells (7pm) Saturday, November 15th: Glastonbury (7pm) MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 47

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Jewel Street award

ERICA Sharpe has been presented with the much coveted Fine Designer Award from Jewel Street, the online marketplace for professional jewellery.

This award is one of six selected not by the site themselves, but by the customers. With 250 jewellery ‘boutiques’ to choose from, showcasing more than 12,000 items, Erica’s beautiful designs from her Swans, Kerensa and Stella collections clearly stood out for the 90,000 monthly visitors.

This award and Erica’s inclusion on the Jewel Street website, brings a sparkling corner of Somerset to a worldwide audience.

Details: http://www.jewelstreet.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Erica+ Sharpe

Free valuations in Midsomer Norton

AN antiques and collectables valuation event will be taking place in Midsomer Norton. The experts of Lockdales Auctioneers will be providing free valuations to the public on Tuesday November 11th, 12pm-4pm, at Midsomer Norton Town Hall.

Valuations will be provided on the following types of collectables: coins, stamps, banknotes, medals and militaria, antiques, clocks, watches, jewellery, gold, silver, pre-1900 documents/books and maps, cigarette cards, postcards, pre-1960 sporting programmes and tickets, scientific instruments, swords, bayonets and de-activated weapons.

No appointment is necessary at this event, simply turn up with your items and the valuers will be happy to see you. Members of the public will have the option, if they wish, to consign their goods to auction (subject to terms and conditions). Cash purchase offers are also available. Valuations will be provided free of charge, with no obligation.

They will also be holding an event in Chipping Sodbury on Thursday November 13th.

Details: Contact: 01473 627110, sales@lockdales.com www.lockdales.com

PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Clevedon goes Oriental

CLEVEDON Salerooms’ Specialist Sale on November 20th will include this 19th century Chinese heavily carved circular rosewood centre table having inset red marble top.

Measuring 120cm in diameter the table was consigned from a local house, the decision probably influenced by the £26,000 result for a pair of Chinese demi-lune side tables sold at Clevedon earlier this year.

Almost guaranteed to be fought over by Chinese internet bidders, the table will be estimated at £3,000 – £4,000 and looks destined to return to its homeland to begin the next phase in its history.

Further capitalising on the interest in Chinese decorative arts is the truly massive 19th century Chinese famille rose porcelain bowl shown on the table, measuring two feet in diameter. While the measurement may be in ‘old money’ the bidders may well be ‘new money’ and estimated at £2,000 – £3,000 the bowl will more than likely follow the table back to its place of origin.

Viewing for the sale is on Tuesday November 18th, 2pm – 5pm and Wednesday November 19th, 10am – 7.30pm. The fully illustrated online catalogue will be available from November 7th at www.clevedon-salerooms.com.

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

Quarterly Specialist Sale of Antiques, Fine Art & Collectors Items

Cartier Brooch

£6,000 – £8,000

Thursday 20th November at 10.30am Viewing Tuesday 18th November 2pm - 5.30pm Wednesday 19th November 10am - 7.30pm Sale day from 9am On-line catalogue available from 7th November

Tel: 01934 830111 or 0117 325 6789 The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT

Circa 1710, Thomas Tompion

Circa 1978, Heuer Chronograph

£2,000 – £3,000

£500 – £750

Something special, something timeless – someone in mind?

www.clevedon-salerooms.com MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 49

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Art all around

ARTIST Ellie Jones has found the ideal venue for her gallery of mid-20th century paintings, drawings and sculpture – her own home on the edge of Wells.

Andelli Art is the city’s newest gallery in part of a Victorian former hospital in South Horrington, where Ellie lives with her family.

For more than 20 years, Ellie has built up a collection which appeals to her directly. She said: “The collecting gene is something I inherited from my grandmother. She worked for the Burrell Collection in Glasgow and had a deep

A view of the gallery in Ellie’s home at South Horrington

knowledge and discerning eye.”

Originally from Bristol, Ellie worked for more than 20 years as a graphic designer for some of London’s leading agencies, before moving to Wells last year. Ellie added: “The move enabled us to develop Andelli Art, which was initially set up as an online gallery.”

Whilst recognising the benefits of perusing works online, Ellie feels that the appreciation of a work is enhanced by standing in front of it and living with it: “I believe art should be enjoyed on a daily basis and the collection is displayed

in the friendly environment of my own home, with the addition of a dedicated gallery.”

Andelli Art stocks work by recognised artists such as Mary Fedden, Elisabeth Frink and John Bratby, as well as lesserknown artists. Normally open by appointment only, Andelli Art welcomed a large number of visitors during Somerset Art Weeks and it will be holding a Christmas show (Saturday, November 29th – Tuesday, December 23rd) of artworks, all priced under £450.

Andelli Art welcomes visitors by appointment only. For further information, please contact: ellie@andelliart.com or visit: www.andelliart.com

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Rare Chinese chair heads home

ARTS & ANTIQUES

AT Mendip Auction Rooms’ sale of antiques, fine art and collectables on October 11th, there was strong bidding for many items including a 19th century Chinese hunting chair, which sold to a Chinese telephone bidder for £1,600 with competition over the internet and in the room.

Other items selling to advantage included an early 19th century flintlock pistol (£960), an early 20th century mahogany desk (£750), an art deco silver service (£550), a signed Pink Floyd tour programme (£420), an Allcock Aerial fishing reel (£320) and an oil on canvas of WW2 war planes (£200).

The general sale of Victorian and later effects on October 21st saw a further strong entry of diverse items and a good attendance of buyers on the day and at viewing.

The next sale of antiques, fine art and collectables will be staged on November 15th and the next general sale will be on November 25th. A two-day sale will be held in December.

Entries are now invited for forthcoming sales and valuation days, which are held at the auction rooms every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am – 5pm.

Alternatively, the valuers from the auction rooms are always content to make a home visit free of charge at a time to suit you.

They sell items for charity at 0% commission and offer special rates for deceased estates.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 51

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Galleries add to the Mendip art scene

Grayson Perry silk scarf map called “Tat Moderne” in the window at Mr B’s at Barton House Antiques in Frome. The tongue-in-cheek design is based on scarves that fighter pilots used to wear in WWII with maps drawn on them so if the worse happened they would know which way to go.

ECLECTIC and beautiful, that is what is on offer at two related art galleries on Mendip.

Pylle Emporium, on the Stockwood Business Park, south of Shepton Mallet, has completely refurbished its art gallery. It opened its doors at the beginning of October to unveil more than 200 pictures in the upstairs gallery.

Curated by Mr B’s Art Company, the space at Pylle Emporium has been transformed. The art is eclectic. From prints to watercolours; etchings to oils; there is something for every taste. Local and international artists sit side by side: a limited edition featuring Mick Jagger and Andy Warhol by Tito Calderon priced at £745 hangs not far

Landa Zajicek with one of her signature chargers and a beautiful vase

from a Lady with her Zebra by Jasmine Eavis for £75. The upstairs gallery at Pylle Emporium has become a very pleasant experience for those who enjoy art and has also attracted artists new to Mendip such as ceramicist Landa Zajicek.

Mr B’s art Company has also lodged itself on Catherine Hill in Frome as a part of Barton House Antiques. There, in a more Tardis-like space, Mr B has hung some contemporary works by renowned artists such as Martin Yeoman, Grayson Perry, John Bratby and Andre Bicat. There too local talent is on show with works by Barbette Quinn and Sue Conrad. Mr B’s. The Frome gallery also has some beautiful antiques supplied by Pylle Emporium.

ANTIQUES Pylle Emporium

Stockwood Business Park, (on A37 south of Shepton Mallet) Pylle BA4 6TA

&

ART

Mr. B’s Art Company Barton House Gallery, 14 Catherine Hill, Frome BA11 1BZ

Fine Antiques • Beautiful and Unique Christmas Gift Ideas

BUY

PYLLE: Five showrooms housing a mix Antiques • Vintage furniture • Silver Chinese Porcelain • Art Deco • etc.

SELL

RESTORE

FROME: A ‘Bijou’ Gallery with mainly Contemporary Art and some exquisite pieces of smaller antiques etc.

www.pylleemporium.co.uk • e-mail: antiques@pylleemporium.co.uk • tel: 01749 838783 PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Ancient coins for sale

TAMLYNS’ collectors sale on November 18th will include a collection of silver Drachms from the Sassanium empire.

The Sassanium Empire was the last Iranian empire before the rise of Islam and was one of the main powers in Western and Central Asia alongside the Roman Byzantine Empire for more than 400 years.

The coins are from a number of rulers from Shapar I – Ardashir III and although ancient are generally in very good condition, well struck with good detail. They are a good example of the fact that just because something is of great age it does not necessarily mean it has great value; most of the coins are expected to make less than £30 – £50 each.

The sale will also include the usual mixed assortment of interesting lots from postcards, medals, militaria to toys, diecast vehicles and postage stamps (and many other fascinating things!).

Entries are still being taken but the sale is filling up fast so if you would like to put anything in it is advisable to either pop in to Tamlyns on a Friday morning or call the auctioneers on 01278 445251.

ARTS & ANTIQUES

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

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

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 53

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Literature festival party

Marianne Smith, Heather Scobie, Caroline Jones, Bruce Scobie and Gail Barr, from Chubb Bulleid

DOZENS of guests enjoyed the opening night celebrations for the Wells Literature Festival.

With many of the festival events being held in a large marquee sponsored by Chubb Bulleid on the lawn of the Bishop’s Palace, organisers decided to use the venue to host the party.

The festival featured almost 40 events this year, the most it had ever put on, and organisers sold a record number of tickets for celebrity speakers including Michael Morpugo and Ruth Rendell.

ARTS & ANTIQUES

Framers’ armistice window

Carrie at work on a collection of militaria

SWAN Artworks in Midsomer Norton has become well-known for its annual window displays commemorating Armistice Day. This year will be no exception, but it will also be the last time Tony and Carrie Osborne decorate the window at their picture framing and gallery business in the town centre. Early next year, Swan Artworks will be relocating to the Old Mills Industrial Estate (close to the Tesco store).

Tony and Carrie have established a widely-known reputation for the care and attention they devote to the often specialist skill of mounting militaria, from photos to insignia and medals.

In the past five years, they’ve looked after collections dating from Waterloo and the Battle of Balaclava to more recent conflicts. They are often brought in by relatives, which adds a special poignancy.

Carrie said: “We have met some amazing people with incredible stories to tell and it’s humbling to think we have been asked to create displays out of something so personal and often with an extraordinary history.”

The couple will continue to offer the service at their new premises – along with their extensive picture framing business – as they aim to become more specialised, with less gallery space than at present.

Tony said: “We have loved being in the town centre but it’s time to move on and concentrate our efforts on framing.”

Carrie at work on a collection of militaria PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

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Cheddar Festive Night

5

CHEDDAR gets its Christmas season off with a bang quite literally as the firework explodes over Cheddar to mark the start of its annual Cheddar Festive Night on Friday December 5th. Year on year this event has grown, becoming more and more popular with locals and visitors alike.

The evening starts with a Christmas civic service in St Andrew’s Church at 5.30pm. In the village the traders will be keeping their doors open late with a BBQ outside Lanes with various traders around the car park.

Nearby, at the Bath Arms, you will find the children of Cheddar First School with a selection of your favourite carols. Up through Cliff Street there will be more street traders as well as the annual Christmas Lights competition to light your way through to the Cliff Street car park with more market traders, funfair rides, BBC Somerset Sound and the annual traders’ raffle.

The Riverside Inn plays host to Cheddar cubs and scouts and the STARR singers, while you will find more traders welcoming you in the gorge itself. Two land trains will be running and there will be fairground attractions by Cox’s Mill.

There’s a visit from Billie Bear lined up, birds of Prey from Secret World, the Salvation Army Band and of course a very special visit from Santa who will be transported through the village and gorge courtesy of Cheddar Fire Brigade.

December

Cheddar Festive Night 2013

In the garden of fragrance you’ll find Mendip Rotary Club serving up burgers and mulled wine with music and gorge illuminations from Pulse Radio.

If you’re in Somerset it’s definitely the night to get your festive season going.

GALLERIES INN Welcome to the

Join us on Festive Night – December 5th, for free soup and entertainment from singer Lauren Male Christmas Party Menu – December 1st – December 23rd 2 courses £16.95 3 courses £18.95 Christmas Disco Night – December 20th with DJ John Smith The Cliffs, Cheddar BS27 3QA • Tel 01934 744796

PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Riverside gets festive with some STARR singers

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

JOIN the Riverside Inn on Festive Night, December 5th, where the mulled wine and mince pies will be flowing.

This year they play host to the Cheddar cubs and scouts who will be setting up their new BBQs in the car park serving burgers and hot dogs with the scouts giving a seasonal rendition of some old and new carols – definitely one the grandparents won't want to miss.

Also joining them for some seasonal vocal entertainment are the STARR singers who have sung at a series of recent local events recently. This year as well as some festive tunes to keep everyone in the seasonal mood they'll be treating us to a number of rousing pantomime tunes as they promote their up-coming village pantomime, Robin Hood, staged at the end of January in Church House, Cheddar.

As in previous years Festive Night sees the launch of the festivities at The Riverside Inn. The bars and restaurant have undergone an extensive refurbishment in time for the season creating two new trading areas.

The plasma lounge now has an urban edge creating a chilled-out venue, perfect for an informal office party and with its five plasma screens still the perfect sporting venue.

The restaurant has a totally new image with its contemporary choice of furniture the focus of its stylish new look.

This makes The Riverside the perfect venue whether it's catching up with friends or booking the office Christmas party and with live music on the three Saturdays up to Christmas you've found the perfect seasonal spot!

Christmas teas

DERRICKS Tea Room is always up there when it comes to the best place for afternoon tea in Somerset. This year however they've excelled themselves.

They offer a spread that includes a glass of Cava, delicate finger sandwiches, including turkey, along with Christmas cake and mince pie on the stand and a choice of 20 different blends of loose tea, including their Christmas blend. Booking is essential.

Fully Licensed Traditional Tea Rooms Breakfast • Lunch • Afternoon Tea • Famous Cream Teas • All homemade Loose leaf Teas • Fresh Ground Coffee • Local Ales and Cider • Local Cheeses • Gifts Free roadside parking BUY ONE GET ONE FREE on all our Homemade Cream Teas in December. Just bring this advert. Booking advised, terms apply

The Cliffs, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3QE

01934 742288 reservations@derrickstearoom.co.uk • www.derrickstearoom.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 57

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Bear necessities

We are pleased to support Cheddar Vale Lions For their Bonfire on November 2nd The Tree of Light on December 5th Cheddar Festive Night on December 6th The annual Senior Citizens Shopping Trip on December 12th Contact: Chris Tony or Paul on 01934 742550 For all your insurance needs Bath Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3AA Tel: (01934) 742550 Fax: (01934) 744559 Email: quotes@woodburyinsurance.co.uk

THE KINGS HEAD Traditional 17th century thatched inn, the oldest in Cheddar

Open 4pm – Late Monday to Friday 12 Noon – Late Saturday and Sunday Live music every Thursday with traditional Folk music or an Open Acoustic night. All are welcome to join in.

Live performers every weekend – call for details.

Pub quiz on Sundays Bar snacks and hot pies served daily.

A good locals’ pub where all are warmly welcome. Probably the cheapest pub in Cheddar.

1, Silver Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3LE Tel 01934 436229 kingsheadcheddar@outlook.com

Unit 8 Cheddar Business Park, Wedmore Road, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3EB

Gates • Railings • Spiral and Straight Staircases • Fire escapes • Fire Baskets • Living Flame Gas and Electric Fires • A range of Lighting • Garden Arches and lots more.

Tel: 01934 743464 Fax: 01934 743487 Email: info@forgecraft.ltd.uk

PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

THE World of Bears in Cheddar Gorge has one of the largest selections of teddy bears, cuddly plush bears and animals in the country, available in the store or online.

Whether you are looking for big teddy bears or small teddy bears, their collection is guaranteed to delight, with about 18,000 teddy bears to choose from!

Presents for pets

Axe Valley Vets will be handing out Christmas stockings – to pets – during Cheddar Festive Night on Friday December 5th.

They will be given to anyone who has pre-booked a consultation on the evening, when the practice will be open from 4.30pm-6.30pm. All are welcome to pop in and say hello.

The practice is now offering evening surgeries every Tuesday and Thursday from 4.30pm as well as nurse clinics by appointment on Thursday afternoons.

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Robin Hood rides into Cheddar

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

I offer professional support for owner-managed businesses and small companies, including • Business planning and advice • Management and year-end accounts • Budgets and forecasts • Tax returns and tax planning • Payroll and VAT • Company secretarial services For a free initial consultation contact Helen Bardle at

7 Cliff Street, Cheddar, BS27 3PT Tel 01934 744333 or 07974 343335 Email helen@helenbardle.co.uk

REHEARSALS are well underway in Cheddar for this year’s village pantomime, Robin Hood, which will be staged at Church House at the end of January.

STARR, the group behind it, was set up 28 years ago as St Andrew’s Roof Raisers, and has since raised more than £18,000 for improvements to Church House, putting on most known pantos. Members will be singing outside the Riverside Inn on Cheddar Festive Night, Friday December 5th.

Details of ticket sales and show times for the pantomime will be issued soon.

Cheddar’s Tree of Light

CHEDDAR Vale Lions Club Tree of Light will again be at Cheddar Garden Centre this year. The tree, inviting the public to sponsor a light in memory of a loved one or cause, will be lit on Thursday December 4th at 6.30pm.

The dedication service will be led by the Rev Sue Rose and carols led by Cheddar Valley Music Club. Local schools will also provide music before the tree is lit. All money raised will again go back into community projects of the Cheddar Valley and organisations are invited to apply for money at the start of the New Year.

Sponsor forms will be available from businesses displaying the Tree of Light poster throughout the Cheddar Valley.

Details: Glyn John 01278 785885 or e-mail e.john001@btinternet.com

Buy a new bike for Christmas WITH ONLY A 10% DEPOSIT!

Xmas Party Menus available Two bars and restaurants completely refurbished for the party season

Cheddar Cycle Store, 1E Valley Line Industrial Park, Wedmore Road, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3EE Tel: 01934 741300 www.cheddarcyclestore.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 59

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Not such a prickly affair

PRICKLES Hedgehog Rescue of Cheddar is currently treating and caring for an unusual patient.

Pumpkin recently came into Prickles with a skin condition which has left him without any spines or fur.

Jules Bishop, founder of Prickles said: “This little chap was lucky to have been found, hedgehogs rely on their spines for protection in the wild. Without them he would've have died.

We are pleased Pumpkin is responding well to treatment and are confident he will make a full recovery. It is likely he will remain at Prickles for the winter."

This is the time of year when many people are planning Guy Fawkes celebrations. Please check bonfires carefully before lighting.

Details: www.prickleshedgehogrescue.org or call 0780 6744772.

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

Food bank bids for funds

CHEDDAR Valley Food Bank is hoping donors will take up a “double your money” challenge to help maintain its service and open two new centres outside Cheddar.

For a limited period, the online LocalGiving.com website, which supports charities, is offering to match every new donation of £10 given to the charity with another £10.

The food bank has supported over 200 local families and individuals since it was launched and has recently received many gifts of food from harvest festival collections. But it needs to raise funds to cover the rent of its premises in Cheddar and other operational costs.

It’s urging donors to go to the localgiving.com website to add Cheddar Valley Food Bank to the charity search bar, and donate £10.

Details: info@cheddarvalley.foodbank.org.uk, or via the foodbank centre 01934 742500.

Switching on for Christmas

THIS Year’s Cheddar Festive Night sees many of your old favourites back at Lanes. They have a pig roast from Hansfords butchers of Shipham with profits again going to a local charity.

Also there will be stalls from Cheddar Chocolates, Cheddar Cycle store, Earlybirds Preschool and a bouncy castle for the children.

They will also have many “on the night” offers in the store, perfect as Christmas gifts, including digital radios and TVs, as well as Bosch cashback offers until December 12th.

Festive Night at the Bath Arms

NEW landlords Sean Battles and his wife Jacqui say they are delighted to have the pub open for Cheddar Festive Night again.

They will be providing a hog roast and mulled wine with proceeds going to Weston Hospicecare. There will also be an excellent choice of food options to take away for the festive trail.

The brownies and the rainbows will be singing carols under the magnificently dressed Christmas tree.

They say the heart of the village is beating again and they would love to see you to help celebrate the success that is festive night.

PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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WILDLIFE

DURING autumn and winter, Mendip’s three resident species of owl (barn, tawny and little) are often joined by two others, the short-eared and the long-eared.

The long-eared owl is a very rare breeding bird of our area, with perhaps

By CHRIS one or two pairs nesting here from time SPERRING to time; however during the winter MBE months we often see migrating birds arrive from northern Europe. These birds spend the winter here and then leave in the spring to return to their breeding grounds, often in Scandinavia.

Long-eared owls measure around 33-36cm in length (slightly smaller than barn owls), but look much larger when seen in flight due to their extremely long wings.

These wings show that this is a bird of open countryside, which is where it hunts mainly for small mammals, but its heavily streaked, dark camouflage indicates that when at roost or nesting it prefers dense cover, such as coniferous woodland or thick hedgerows.

As its name suggests, the long-eared owl has long eartufts, which are nothing to do with its ears, just tufts of feathers on top of its head. These are manoeuverable, which helps with camouflage and with communication between each other.

Long-eared owls are nocturnal, so seeing them flying in daylight is unlikely, and their camouflage is such that noticing them at roost is equally difficult. Their elusive nature and scarcity makes them a difficult, but exciting, bird to encounter.

Short-eared owls also spend the winter on Mendip, having bred in northern Europe and Scotland. They very, very rarely breed in southern England. They are slightly larger than long-eared owls, at around 39cm, but in flight look quite similar. The characteristic ear tufts are much smaller, and when relaxed not noticeable at all, as they are held back against top of the head.

Short-eared owls have lighter camouflage than longeareds and can be mistaken for barn owls when seen in flight. They are largely diurnal, so much easier to observe than long-eareds, often quartering fields and moors in search of small mammal prey. They often gather in small groups.

Unusually, they roost and nest on the ground. Their

Photography by Chris Sperring

The long and the short of it

Leo, a long-eared owl

eyes are strikingly yellow in colour, compared to the bright orange of the long-eared owl, but you have to have a good telescope to pick this out!

This year – 2014 – seems to have been a good vole year, so we should expect to see both these winter visitors in the Mendip area this winter. We would be very keen to hear of any sightings of either long-eared or short-eared owls on Mendip, as we are continuing to build a picture of where their favoured areas are.

Good places to view them in previous years have included Priddy mineries, Blackdown and Velvet Bottom, but any open areas of rough grassland are good places to look. Good luck!

G The Hawk and Owl Trust has active local groups in and around Mendip. Visit http://hawkandowl.org/groups/local-groups-introduction/ for information about what’s going on near you, or contact Chris for more details

A short-eared owl near Charterhouse

Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him on 07799 413 918 or via chris.sperring@btinternet.com

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 61

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A meander around Mells

AN autumn special in East Mendip from beautiful Mells. A number of walkers have asked me to re-walk and redesign the Wadbury Valley walk, following the Mells Stream, as it is such a firm favourite. It is with me too. It is also rather sad because the remains of a very vibrant and fascinating era of our Empire are just being left to crumble under vegetation. The valley, once an industrial hub, is now a beautiful wildlife area and the autumnal colours will add something special.

Follow the river and then either gently circle round over Barrow Hill, or take the old railway route, the Colliers Way, a little shorter and flat. Pass the remains of the old canal and then follow a lane and fields back into interesting and very picturesque Mells with several refreshment options.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

PARK: In beautiful Mells village, a couple of miles west of Frome. Find somewhere near the village shop at the east end of the village (either opposite or just along the road) or park further in the village by the Talbot. Our route passes both.

START: At the thriving community shop in Mells. Fork left on the road towards Great Elm which is fairly quiet. After a few minutes on a left-hand bend, turn right into the Mells Estate by a metal gate.

1. MELLS STREAM Follow this dry track with the Mells Stream – the lifeblood of Mells – on your right. It is a green valley becoming steeper and rockier and soon you will be able to hear the water. Pass a waterfall and then a stone gauge house. Not long after come to what was the Upper Fussells Works alongside a low wall on the left behind which is the remains of part of the Spadetree works where wooden handles and ropes were produced in the long rope walk.

2. FUSSELLS WORKS Continue until the track forks. You can take the right fork, following the high wall of the old Fussells’ site. But, to explore the site, which was the Upper Works, go right soon passing a building with a metal beam high across the path, which was the old office building. Take great care when exploring the site because of pits and crumbling walls. You will see the disintegrating remains of the old works, including the turbine house, the sluices, the limekilns and a lot else.

From the mid-18th century to the end of the 19th century workers toiled under the iron rule of the Fussells’ family to make the name of Fussells of Mells known throught the Empire for the supply of edge tools. These included hay knives, scythes, billhooks, spades and shovels and in the Napoleonic Wars James Fussell offered the government 1,000 pikes and then later 2,000 each week. There were two sites in Mells at one time employing 400-500 people and six sites altogether, probably linked by the stream. The demise of English agriculture in the 1870s began to adversely affect the Fussells’ industry. By 1895 the site was silent. And now the noise of labour with men’s ‘noses to the grindstone’ has been replaced by birdsong, and bats, birds and vegetation make the most of the ruins.

Return safely to the main upper track and continue on through the valley – a green and secretive confusion of undergrowth hiding remains of the industry and workers’ cottages. Up high is impressive Wadbury House, built in 1840 by James Wilson of Bath for Thomas Fussell. He was literally able to look down on the toiling of his workers.

Up on the top of the upper side was a significant Iron Age promontory camp, Tedbury.

Come alongside wooden railings and to a more manicured area where you join a Tarmac drive. Keep on and soon see a choice of footpaths. Take the one that goes straight on closer to the stream (leaving the Tarmac).

Continue all the way to a wooden footbridge over the stream.

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WALKING

3. FOOTBRIDGE Cross and turn left now following the stream on your left. This is a popular area for children to play and for fishing – there is a good supply of the American Signal Crayfish which appears to thrive in the water.

Begin to see houses on the other side up in Great Elm. Reach a side stream coming in where you turn right alongside it and then cross a footbridge and carry on as before. Come close to a quarry railway line.

Eventually reach the lane in Great Elm.

4. GREAT ELM On the left is a beautiful spot popular with picnickers and ducks. Cross the lane and continue on the track with the stream on your left. After a while see the remains of an old mill in the stream and a roaring fall of water over the sluice. In spring the valley is a mass of snowdrops and later violets and monkshood. You are now in an area called Bedlam, so called because of the rather manic industrial activity here in days gone by. Go under a railway bridge and continue on to a kissing gate on the left and footpath markers. Go left and cross the bridge over the stream. The drive/track takes you uphill to the road.

5. ROAD Turn right for a few yards and cross to a stile on the other side. Go straight across the field dropping down to a large gate onto a lane.

Follow it right and arrive at a bridge which carried the disused railway. Here is one end of the Colliers Way, part of the National Cycle Network, that will eventually run from Dundas near Bath to Southampton. This section follows the route of the old GWR Radstock to Frome banch line.

6. COLLIERS WAY Turn left onto the line passing a detailed information board about the Colliers Way. Continue for about 1.5 miles passing one or two benches and picnic tables. There are also English apple trees planted at intervals, but most of them, sadly, have not survived.

The idea is for a Linear Orchard, highlighting disappearing orchards in Somerset and echoing self-seeded fruit trees which grew from apple cores thrown by train passengers. Near the farm bridge that you go under on the right, up behind the bank, is part of the old Dorset and Somerset Canal and the site of an amazing balance or lever lock designed by James Fussell.

The first trial opened to great acclaim on Sept 6th, 1800. It was designed to get boats

4.8 miles, about 2.5 hours walking.

OS Explorer 142, Shepton Mallet & Mendip Hills East, grid ref: 730 490

up and down Barrow Hill using watertight boxes or caissons. But work on the canal ceased in 1803 through lack of funds and it wasn’t long after that that railways took over and much of the canal became a railway bed. Nothing really remains to be seen now.

Continue all the way to a road bridge, Conduit Bridge.

7. CONDUIT BRIDGE Go under and turn up left to the lane. Turn right for about a third of a mile to a left bend.

8. FIELD Take the waymarked footpath into a field.

Technically the route goes diagonally across the field, but custom has it when crops are growing to follow the right edge all the way round to the corner. Then go through into another field and straight ahead, towards the distinctive tower of Mells Church. Cross a stile where you get a really beautiful view of the church. To the right of the church is Mells Manor, for centuries the home of the Horner family (of Little Jack Horner fame).

9. MELLS CHURCH Head straight to the church wall corner, then right a few yards along to the path of clipped yews leading into the churchyard.

This was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens.

Go left through the unusual stile, 1857, invented by Thomas Lyne of Malmesbury and only one of three still surviving, into the churchyard.

It is well worth visiting the fine 15th century church which contains much fine work by a number of artists who were

friends of the Horner family, the Lords of the Manor of Mells. This includes an equestrian statue by Sir Alfred Munnings to Edward Horner, who fell at the Battle of Cambrai in 1917.

Outside in the graveyard on the left is a grave to the renowned war poet, Siegried Sassoon, who died in 1967. He was buried here beside Ronald Knox, the distinguished priest and scholar who lived in Mells Manor while translating the Bible.

Go through the lychgate to New Street designed in 1470 by Abbot Selwood of Glastonbury and was meant to be the start of a town plan in the shape of a cross. But this was the only street ever finished.

Notice the plaque to Queen Victoria on the left over the door of the old school.

Reach the main street. To the right is the Talbot Inn, a firm favourite with many.

Opposite is the very atmospheric Walled Garden with a cafe open daily 10-5pm (not in winter) and selling plants and secondhand knick-knacks.

Turn left, passing on the right, a fine 15th century tithe barn used as a village hall.

9. MEMORIAL Reach a war memorial left, more of Lutyens’ work, where the names of those who died, regardless of rank or social standing, are listed in alphabetical order.

Ignore the Buckland Dinham turn and continue down the lane to the community shop which houses the Mells Cafe, opened

by Great British Bake off star, Mary Berry, at Easter 2011. It is open every day all year round. The cafe and shop are a great success and the hub of the community.

The Talbot Inn, 01373 812254

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 63

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OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s Diary

I WOULD like to know who has taken all the fine weather. I walked out to the “Landy” one morning and it had gone!

What greeted me instead was a slap in the face from a wet leaf blown from one of the sycamore trees at the edge of the car park – autumn had arrived.

With LES Although I knew it was going to arrive at DAVIES MBE some point, I wanted it to stay warm and dry for longer. I had become greedy. When it starts to rain, will it ever know when to stop? Also going through my head are all the jobs I should have done when it was dry, but didn’t.

It was a great Mendip Ploughing Match this year on Yeo Valley land at Priddy Hill Farm. The weather was wonderful and the turn-out was close to 90 ploughs, together with walling and hedging. I mustn’t forget the roots, grain and fodder either, as they do tend to get ignored. However what can’t be ignored is the time and effort spent planning and preparing for this Mendip event.

As a member of the committee, I’m proud to support the Mendip Ploughing Society. It never fails to amaze me how everything gets laid out on the Monday before the match. No fuss, no drama, it all just happens! The field is marked out for each competitor in each class of the ploughing; the hedgerow is measured out and the dry stone walling receives the same treatment. Meanwhile the ever important task of preparing the marquee for the massive task of feeding everyone is carried out with similar efficiency.

Photos of the day will be in this edition, but you have to be there on the day to live the experience. What appears to be traffic chaos, with the arrival of tractors, ploughs, lorries, trailers and a vast assortment of other vehicles is quickly sorted out by the parking stewards. Once everyone knows where they are going, it’s just a case of getting on with the day’s work. As always, the ‘King Pin’ is Jim King, who resides in his stock trailer office, with a gentle hand on the tiller of the day’s proceedings.

Catering for all those judges and stewards, as well as members of the public, falls to the ladies in the marquee. This in itself is a huge task and when you consider that a packed lunch is prepared on the day for every competitor on the field, and it’s delivered to them, it’s an achievement that many other organisations would wonder at. All this happens in the corner of a field, in the middle of Mendip, and it happens every year.

BBC Countryfile’s Ellie Harrison was on site to try her hand at a bit of ploughing and to find out about the day. I found her to be genuinely interested in what was going on and how such events as these have found their way into our rural calendar.

The coverage will have done the society no harm either. My picture this time shows how skill morphs into an art form at the hands of ploughmen such as Roy Hill, competing here in the high cut class, with the only WD4 that you will ever see with 4-wheel drive. Roy converted it himself, and Land Rover enthusiasts will soon recognise that front axle.

I spent a lovely afternoon with the good folk of Norton Malreward at their harvest lunch in the village hall and was pleased to be invited to speak. These village occasions are so special, with a huge amount of preparation going into the day.

I always like to end my sessions with the ‘Farmers Prayer’, it’s on the back of my cider mug.

When he was alive, Ken Tucker from Higher Hill Farm in Blagdon, would conclude his after-dinner speeches with it.

Now Ken is no longer with us, I am trying to keep up the tradition: Let the wealthy and great roll in splendour and state, I envy them not I declare it.

I eat my own lamb, my own chicken and ham, I shear my own fleece and I wear it.

I have lawns, I have bowers, I have fruits, I have flowers, the lark is my morning alarmer.

So jolly boys now, here’s God speed the plough, long life and success to the farmer.

Couple this with some evening talks and some school visits in the middle of Bristol and the month has been pretty full.

Bristol trips are not my favourite, especially when I have to be there at 9am in the morning. Such a trip means I have to leave at 7am to get there in time. I spent nearly an hour travelling five miles one morning. I’m only glad I don’t do that every day! Once I’m there it’s all worthwhile and the children enjoy it and I’m always surprised at the amount of hidden knowledge these children have. It often surprises their teachers as well.

I had the chance to watch a master at work when Michael Morpurgo arrived at Yeo Valley to talk with a group of children about his stories. Most will have heard of him, he is well known for his book ‘War Horse’, which later became a film and stage production that used some ground-breaking puppetry. It’s always good to watch someone else at work and how he grabbed the attention of those children sat on the floor.

I picked up a few tips that morning!

How different it was when I went to school at Tickenham VC primary school in the 1950s. I only remember one teacher who had the ability to read a story that would captivate me.

Miss Anderson lived with her elderly mother in the school house and she would read us the most amazing stories. That is where I first heard of Tolkien’s book, ‘The Hobbit’.

Reading is so important and having the ability to tell a story is a gift. When all is said and done, is there anyone, of any age, who doesn’t like to hear a story? More from me next month!

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

PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Flowering pot plants for winter decoration

AS the garden outdoors loses its winter apparel it is time to look to our indoor plants and ensure that they are fulfilling that important visual role until spring comes again.

The rise in popularity of the moth orchid (Phalaenopsis) over recent years is entirely With MARY justified. They make an excellent gift and PAYNE MBE the flowers can last for two to three months. Many new hybrids have been created that are easy to care for and a single plant can offer many years of repeated flowering.

Unlike many other types of orchid the moth orchid is ideally suited to indoor culture. In their native habitats they grow as epiphytes clinging onto branches of trees with their silvery roots and are sheltered from direct sun by the canopy of the tree foliage above. Many of our traditional house plants originate from under the canopy of trees or on the ground in tropical rain forests and so are uniquely adapted to the lower light conditions found in our homes.

To care for these beautiful plants, simply position them out of direct sun, even a north facing window sill will suffice. The plant arrives in an almost transparent pot and we usually stand it in an attractive outer pot. Every seven to ten days or so fill the outer pot with water, leave it for five minutes, and then drain off all the surplus water. Never allow the plant to stand in water for more than five to ten minutes.

Occasionally a little very liquid feed, such as tomato feed, can be added to the water. When the flowers have eventually dropped off, cut the stem back to the topmost “bump” on the stem, below where the flowers were. There is a chance that a side stem of flowers may be produced from this point.

Alternatively, just be patient and one or perhaps two new flower stems will be produced from the base.

Do not be tempted to pot your moth orchid into a larger pot – it is not necessary and do not cut off the aerial roots that are produced. These are capable of absorbing atmospheric moisture through the silvery spongy coating. A light misting occasionally, using rain water, will be much appreciated.

Cyclamen are abundant in the shops at this time of year and can make a useful indoor plant for a cool but well-lit position. If the location is too warm and not light enough the flower stalks will elongate and flop over the side of the pot. Always water a cyclamen by standing it in a bowl of water and allowing it to suck up what it requires and then drain. Watering through the top of the pot may encourage the flower and leaf stems to rot.

The large flowered cyclamen are intended for indoor use while the smaller flowered “Miracle” strain, some of which may be scented, can be used indoors, or outdoors in a sheltered spot, but will ultimately be claimed by the frost. Remove spent flower stalks by gripping them near the base, twisting and pulling. Cutting them off may also encourage rotting.

Flowering azaleas also appear for sale for the Christmas season and it is important to keep their compost moist at all times. Stand the pot in a saucer and try to keep a little water, preferably rain water, in the saucer at all times. You will be surprised how much water they will require. These can be stood outdoors next spring in a lightly shaded position and if PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Moth Orchid

kept moist should flower again next season.

Poinsettias will be flooding the retailers any day now and must never be allowed to be chilled or they will drop their leaves and “petals” (coloured bracts). Keep in good light conditions and at a steady room temperature, avoiding droughts. Allow the surface of the compost to dry out slightly between watering.

The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is one of the most adaptable of our indoor flowering pot plants tolerating low light conditions and fluctuating temperatures better than most. It also has the added benefit of absorbing volatile organic compounds that are given off by many of our modern fabrics, paints, carpets and plastics. This was discovered as part of work done

by NASA investigating ways of cleaning the atmosphere in space craft and the work has resulted in extensive use of live house plants in office environments to help overcome “sick building syndrome”.

I always enjoy growing a Hippeastrum at this time of year.

Plant these enormous bulbs, the bigger the better, in a pot only a little wider than the bulb, leaving the neck and shoulders of the bulb above ground. Use a well-drained compost and water very sparingly until the flower spike emerges. Keep at room temperature and stake the flower spike if it starts to get top heavy by piercing the side of the bulbs with a thin cane. This will keep the stake firm without damaging the bulb. After the spectacular trumpet flowers have faded the foliage will start to emerge. You can grow the bulb on if you wish but they are sometimes tricky to get to flower again.

A pot of scented paper white narcissus, planted now, will be in flower in four to six weeks or delay potting if they are required for Christmas flowering. Apparently, if you use a 4% solution of alcohol to water for your paper whites they grow less tall and the flowers are unaffected. I hasten to say I have not tried this and can think of an alternative use for the alcohol!

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NOVEMBER GARDEN TIPS

GARDENING

If you are not planting up your tubs and hanging baskets for winter and spring colour (why not?) take them down, empty them out and put them away for winter.

Move plants in pots together so that they protect one another in cold weather.

Protect tender alpine plants from the cold and wet. Many are protected by several feet of snow where they grow in the wild.

If you haven't done it already, trim the dead flower heads off summer and autumn flowering heathers.

If the soil is not too wet or actually frozen it's still a good time for planting of hardy plants.

Fork over borders and work into the soil a slow release feed such as fish, blood and bonemeal.

Plant tulip bulbs (if not done already). Urgently plant any other bulbs.

Check potted bulbs that you are going to force into flower early. Make sure that they are well watered. If they have made sufficient roots and, in the case of Hyacinths, the flower bud has emerged from the bulb, they can be put into a well-lit warm place to start the forcing.

Insulate greenhouses with bubble polythene. A layer of this can lift the temperature by a few critical degrees to keep frost out of an unheated house but could save up to a third of heating costs in a heated greenhouse. Open the ventilators a little on mild days. This will encourage good air circulation and will minimise diseases.

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

Christmas gifts for gardeners ‘Getting Ready For Christmas’

An evening of seasonal ideas and decorations at Cleeve Nursery with Felicity Down.

On Thursday 11th December at 7.30pm.

Tickets in advance £5 for Cancer Research UK To include wine and nibbles.

Cleeve Nursery, Cleeve, Bristol BS49 4PW Fantastic Fresh Tel 01934 832134 Email info@cleevenursery.co.uk Christmas Trees cleevenursery.co.uk/blog/ www.cleevenursery.co.uk Beautiful Houseplants National Garden Gift Vouchers and much more!

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 67

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Question time with Anne

ANNE Swithinbank, the popular Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time panellist and celebrated horticulturalist, will be at North Wootton, near Shepton Mallet, on November 7th for an evening of gardening wisdom and enjoyment.

She said: “I’m really looking forward to coming to North Wootton. I`ve heard it`s such a friendly and enthusiastic village. I know I shall really enjoy the evening.”

Details: Shelley Bovey 01749 890755 or email shelley.bovey@gmail.com

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Paulton blooms

JUST two years after entering the South West in Bloom competition, Paulton is still coming to terms with its success this year. As Mendip Times reported last month it was awarded the highest standard Gold.

Not only that, Paulton won the Sargent cup for “Outstanding Effort”, obtained a special award for its unique poppies (both flowering and woven), and won 11 awards in “It’s your neighbourhood competition”.

It also won four awards in the “Bath in Bloom” competition (with Lyn Madden gaining gold in the winners’ category) and Paulton Junior School is “Outstanding”, having being awarded gold and coming first in the schools’ category. Even their cake for the cake competition made by Sarah Cole and donated by Mike Cole came third.

The judges commented that there have been impressive changes in Paulton over the past few years: “Your strength is your community and the extent of your community involvement really shows.”

Many of these changes have been brought about by a group of dedicated people called PiPP (Pride in Paulton partnership) who are out planting, weeding, pruning Tuesdays and Fridays.

Becky Parker (chair) and Gail Garlick (secretary) commented: “We were thrilled to get gold for this exceptional community in Paulton and surprised but delighted to be awarded the Sargent Cup for the best entry in the competition.”

Temple Cloud residents were also celebrating after winning a Silver Gilt in the South West in Bloom awards at their first time of entering.

Organiser, Sandra Blair, said: “I hadn’t counted on the extraordinary energy and drive of the volunteers in the group. We only started in January this year and seem to have achieved so much in such a short time.”

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See our website for more details www.rockymountainnursery.co.uk ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Pictured (left to right) Cathy Gray, Pippa, Pat and Mike Dean, Sandra Blair, Doris Gentle, Lin Paul, Sue Moysey, Ben, Lindsay Herbert and Beccy Angell, standing behind the planted verge in the Temple Inn car parks at Temple Cloud.

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Artisan market at Brownes

BROWNES Garden Centre in Wells will once again be hosting an artisan market in December, complete with a winter floral competition. The market will be held from 10am on Saturday, December 13th with more than 20 local stallholders taking part.

The public can vote for their favourite floral entry - the theme is Christmas Joy - on the day. A Christmas hamper will be raffled at the market in aid of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

GARDENING

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WORKSHOPS/GARAGES GARDEN SHEDS

BROWNES GARDEN CENTRE Come and relax and enjoy a coffee and cake in our coffee shop, then wander through our indoor display area where we have a colourful display of cyclamen, poinsettia, jasmine and mixed bowls.

Large selection of trees, shrubs and roses Plus all your garden sundry requirements National Garden gift vouchers Nordmann & Norway spruce Christmas trees Christmas wreaths and Garlands hand made on the premises Also snow sledges and rock salt Delivery service available

Open 9–5pm Mon–Sat 10–5pm Sun Coffee Shop 10.30-4pm Tues—Sun

Artisan Christmas Market on Saturday 13th December

GLASTONBURY ROAD, WELLS. TEL 01749 673050 Email: jon@brownes-gc.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

Weston Garden Machinery

Garden Machinery Specialist

A selection of Charnwood Stoves on display at Hutton Garden Centre, Banwell Road, Hutton, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS24 9UB

Tel: 01934 813261 www.westongarden.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 69

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MENDIP TIMES

Garden Design • Planting Schemes • Horticultural Consultancy Courses in Gardening and Garden Design www.christinepritchard.co.uk • info@christinepritchard.co.uk tel: 01761 221166 • mobile: 07966 172282

GARDENING

Start planning for 2015

IF you felt your garden lacked lustre this summer now is the time to resolve to do better next year. Garden designer and tutor Christine Pritchard is running a number of short courses to suit enthusiastic new gardeners.

You can choose to redesign your whole garden or learn more about putting plants together in your borders. You can even learn how to illustrate your garden plans. The sessions take place at Stoke Lodge, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, from January 2015 onwards.

You don’t need to be a knowledgeable gardener or fluent in Latin to enjoy these informal courses.

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We are based in South Bristol and manufacture and install bespoke made to measure ornate steel products including Gates, Railings, Security Grills, and Curtain Poles to both domestic and commercial customers.

We take great pride in our work and receive frequent recommendations.

We manufacture and supply a wide range of ornate ironwork. All products are made to measure to your exact requirements, professionally finished, and fitted at your home or premises.

Please browse the galleries on our website to get an idea of what we can do.

Please contact us to discuss your requirements. No job is too small and we will be pleased to be of service.

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Awkward an d risky – an eastern Mend ip gem STOKE Lane Slocker is one of the longest caves on Eastern Mendip, but is not as well-visited as it might be because it has a bit of a reputation. Its With PHILIP long low stream HENDY passages are notoriously prone to flooding and at least three cavers have developed Weil’s Disease after exploring it.

This is a form of leptospirosis transmitted by rat urine. The water is cleaner than it used to be, but the cave often contains unpleasant detritus.

The slocker is Mendip’s largest swallet stream, taking in excess of 2.7 million gallons a day. The water resurges at St. Dunstan’s Well, some two-thirds of a mile away. It is situated in a valley running north east of Stoke St. Michael, where the water sinks at the base of a low cliff.

It is likely that until around 200 years ago the cave was dry, but when a small ironworks was built near the present entrance, the stream, which previously sank near the village, was brought down to be used there.

The cave was first explored in 1905 and although relatively short was visited quite frequently until 1947. In that year, Frome cavers, led by Pat Browne, who did a lot of digging and exploration in the area, passed the choke at Corkscrew Chamber to find Sump One. Up to that point, much of the cave involves low crawling, often in the water and usually over pebbles.

Browne and the Cave Diving Group soon passed the sump, which although only half a metre long has a notoriety of its own. Extreme care is needed for the return, as diving too far results in the caver

Stoke 2 Streamway

The Throne Room

becoming jammed under boulders.

Beyond the sump, the cave becomes much roomier, with several well-decorated chambers. The main streamway is pretty with scalloping on the walls. After 30 metres Main Chamber is reached, with good stalactite formations. A boulder slope may be climbed to reach C.B. Chamber, also well-decorated.

From here, a descent returns to near the sump, but an exposed traverse leads to the pretty Upper Grottoes. Traversing the other way, and passing more grottoes and stalagmite banks, the Throne Room is reached. This large chamber has a wealth of curtains, stalactites and straws, but the main features are two large stalagmites, pure white and reminiscent of Queen Victoria and an Edwardian king.

Nearby is the Princess’s Grotto and the Backroom Series. These are also very attractive and cavers are advised to remove their boots to avoid muddying the stalagmite floors.

From the Throne Room, some small passages lead to the large Bone Chamber.

This is rather more stark than the previous chambers, but here were discovered human bones of unknown age, plus ash and charcoal, and the bones of red deer. Above the highest part of the chamber there is a surface depression, which may once have been open, allowing the bones and ash to fall into the chamber. The floor here slopes down to regain the streamway just before the second sump.

From this point on, the cave is only accessible to divers, as Sump Two, although only 10 metres long, is often heavily silted, so divers have to dig their way through. This was first dived in 1962, when 100 metres of roomy stream passage was discovered, with decorated chambers

CAVING

above.

Sump Three is only four metres long, but is easily bypassed. Stoke Four is much lower, often involving crawling over pebbles to Sump Four. This is 20 metres long, leading to 30 metres of small uninspiring passage and Sump Five.

The Independent Cave Diving Group found a bypass to this sump in 1965 via a large high-level chamber. Stoke Six is a combination of streamway and boulder ruckles. The 12-metre sixth sump had to be dug to enter 75 metres of boulder ruckles, low wet passages and ducks. In the same year the Cave Diving Group passed Sump Seven, which was tight and 15 metres long.

After only 33 metres of boulder streamway they reached the current end of the cave. Through a loose boulder choke open passage could be seen, but it was too remote and dangerous to try to force a way through. The streamway ends in a tight sump or duck, but a boulder collapse has now prevented access to this area.

The known end of the cave reaches about halfway between the entrance and St. Dunstan’s Well, some 20 metres lower.

Further progress seems impossible, although it has been suggested that radiolocation might indicate a spot on the surface where digging might enter the diver’s cave near the end, making it possible for cavers to bypass the sumps and try to engineer a way through the blockages.

At present, this is all a pipedream, but for cavers aware of the flood risks, and willing to tackle the first sump, Stoke Lane Slocker is a sporting cave with some very well-decorated passages beyond the sump.

The effort of getting to these grottoes only serves to enhance their beauty when you get there.

Phil has been caving for more than 47 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and is a caving instructor in Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 71

Photograph by Phil Hendy

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MENDIP TIMES

Amazing Grace – the story of a WWI nurse

AS a young boy, John Brunsdon knew that his mother had worked as a volunteer nurse looking after injured and sick servicemen during World War One; he was even allowed to look at her diary.

But it was only when reading it properly many years later that John, a retired veterinary surgeon who lives in Glastonbury, came to fully appreciate its significance. Grace Pulvertaft, as she then was, had signed up as a member of the Red Cross’s Voluntary Aid Detachment when war was declared.

Called Reminiscences of a V.A.D., the diary features a mixture of her own writing along with contributions such as poetry and cartoons by some of the men – sometimes boy soldiers – she nursed. Grace worked mostly in Croydon and Brighton and, after the war ended, enrolled at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before becoming a teacher in a number of girls’ schools until her marriage to Captain Fred Brunsdon.

John still treasures the original diary but decided it deserved a wider audience.

Working with Barnaby Adams, from Cuckooo John at home with his mother’s original Design Studio at diary and the new book

Village tribute to its WWI past MEMBERS of Priddy History Group staged a two-day exhibition about the lives of villagers who served in the First World War. Poignantly, descendants of some of

Moorlinch, the pair have produced a modern version of the diary, including original photos, sketches and letters.

John, a freeman of Glastonbury, who came to the town in 1952 to work as an assistant vet, said: “Like many people, my parents didn’t say very much about their experiences in the First World War but little bits came out from time to time. As I got older, I started reading the book and learned a lot more.”

The book has been published in time for Remembrance Day and donations from sales will be made to the British Red Cross Society.

G Reminiscences of a V.A.D. – the diary of Grace Pulvertaft – is edited and published by John Brunsdon and printed by Acanthus Press 2014. It is available on Amazon and in Duckett’s and Gothic Image bookshops in Glastonbury.

the personnel still live in the area and the weekend ended with presentations to two families.

The event was far from static: part of the village hall was transformed into an

Susan Edwards and Pauline Gosling – their uncle Harry Main served in the war – and farmer Will Simmons, whose great-uncle Ernest was a farrier in the Reserve Cavalry Regiment, were presented with plaques by Lieutenant Commander Albert Thompson, a retired instructor with the Royal Navy PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Grace Pulvertaft

early 20th Century café – with volunteer waiting staff dressed in period costume – and there was also a chance to try on typical WWI uniforms on loan from Wells and Mendip Museum.

Stepping back in time: (l:r) Clare Hudsmith, her father David, Mandy Hutfield, Sid and Sylvie Hobbs and Liz Turley

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WORLD WAR I

Burrington parish in WWI

Early in 2013 Rickford Community Association agreed to commemorate the Great War of 1914-1918 with research into those from the village who served. The project quickly took on a wider remit to include the whole of Burrington Parish which comprises not only Rickford and Burrington but half of Langford as well.

Having started with the brass plaque in Burrington Church on which are listed the 13 who died, many more names of those who fought and survived gradually emerged until there were nearly 150 to follow up.

The painstaking research which followed has culminated in a fully illustrated book, Burrington Parish in WWI, detailing the known military service and family backgrounds of all who served, set against the local and national context of the war years. It has been made possible by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the professional expertise of a local book designer.

The Lottery Funding was granted with certain conditions, such as to provide a permanent legacy, to share research with the wider community and to work with young people to ensure that they are aware of the events and sacrifices made 100 years ago.

The children at Burrington Primary School will be undertaking a WWI history project with the help of materials provided by the research group. A free exhibition will be held in Burrington Parish Rooms on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November, 10am – 4pm.

This will include photographs, military memorabilia and

A happy coincidence

Herbert Keel and friends

research documents, many of which have been loaned by local residents, alongside a display of work created by the school children. The exhibition will also be the first opportunity to see and purchase the newly published book.

Details: Jacky Kerly 01761 462491.

AMATEUR historian Steve Thomas was keen to visit the Dissenters’ Cemetery in Frome during one of its rare opening days in the hope of discovering the whereabouts of the grave of First World War soldier Charlie Robbins.

Steve was virtually alone in the cemetery when he met a small group of women also inspecting the gravestones. They turned out to be descendants of the Robbins family and were able to take Steve to Charlie’s actual burial place in another cemetery on the other side of Frome.

Charlie was immortalised in bronze by his employers, the J.W. Singer and Sons foundry, after returning from the conflict; the monument now has pride of place on the town’s war memorial outside the Memorial Theatre. Frome Museum has an exhibition about Charlie and other men A certificate of appreciation from the town who served in which Charlie received from the the war until Saturday, council in Frome on his return November 15th. from the war

Paying respects: Sue Bucklow, from Frome Museum, Steve Thomas and relatives of Charlie and James Robbins – Deberah March, Sheila March and Jenny Sayer

Both Charlie and his brother James served in the war and worked at the foundry. Steve had been trying to trace their relatives, using the Absent Voters List from 1917, which showed an address in Milk Street, not far from the Dissenters’ Cemetery.

He said: “It was so strange to discover that we were in the same part of the cemetery. I was trying to see if Charlie or any of his relatives were buried there.”

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 73

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Demand slips for third month Under one roof in Frome GREATER caution appears to be being exercised across the South West housing market as price expectations hit the lowest level since April 2013, according to the latest survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Although price momentum remains positive and has been positive over the last three

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months, with 47 percent more respondents seeing a rise in prices, a more modest figure of nine percent more chartered surveyors are predicting a rise in prices over the coming three months. In the South West new buyer demand slipped for the third consecutive month.

Meanwhile, stock coming onto the market in the South West slipped for the fifth consecutive month (a net balance of -7%), with a number of chartered surveyors reporting that they are in short supply. This does however seem to fluctuate across the region.

However, despite market conditions, surveyor expectations for price growth over the coming 12 months in the South West remain positive with prices still expected to rise by on average 2.2% over the year, which is above the UK figure of 2.1%.

A ONE-day event offering advice about the property market is to be held at the Cheese and Grain in Frome on Tuesday, November 11th.

Called Under One Roof, the event is aimed at first time buyers and sellers, as well as private and social landlords.

Concerned about the difficulties some people are facing getting Local businessman David onto the housing ladder, local Warburton is sponsoring businessman David Warburton is Under One Roof supporting the Under One Roof event. David said: “Getting a first step onto the property ladder can be a huge mountain that many young people believe they will never climb. Things are changing and there are many ways they can now achieve their dream of home ownership.”

At the fair there will not only be housing and financial experts but also experts on hand to show home owners how to reduce costs with green energy. David added: “Housing bills represent a significant proportion of a family’s weekly budget and there is a need to get the best possible mortgage or financial advice, as well as to fully investigate the best means of improving a home’s energy efficiency so as to minimise heating and fuel bills.”

G Under One Roof – which will also include a jobs fair – is free to attend and will be open to the public from 10am until 3pm.

Call 0117 981 2929 to speak with a member of our team PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Which builder should I choose? Clayton Construction

PROPERTY HUTTON VILLAGE, SOMERSET £575,000

BRAND NEW DETACHED HOUSE! Superbly located in the older part of the village with long private drive, gardens and south facing views – quality and style in a mature setting. Five Bedrooms, two en suites, two reception rooms, fully fitted kitchen and utility – both with granite worksurfaces. Double garage & parking. Epc: A ref: 24751

CLAVERHAM, NORTH SOMERSET £640,000

Clayton Construction owner Mark Orchard (second left) receives his certificate from Tony Jackson from Which? watched by Paul Dark and James Orchard

CLAYTON Construction, based at Hutton, has become the first building company in the Somerset area to win official endorsement from the consumer association Which?

The scheme requires businesses to undergo a rigorous assessment process looking at all aspects of their work, especially all-important customer relations and customer satisfaction.

Which? is a charitable organisation and began the endorsement scheme a year ago in the South East and has also taken in Cornwall and Scotland. So far, it has endorsed around 1,500 traders but Clayton Construction is the first company to be accredited in this area.

The company was started 27 years ago by Mark Orchard, who has always strived to practice what he preaches in terms of quality.

One of his most recently completed projects was a series of barn conversions for a client living just a few hundred yards away in his home village.

Mark said: “It was by far the toughest vetting process I have been through. Which? approached us to see if we were interested in trying to become endorsed and it was very rewarding to test ourselves and come out the other side.”

The endorsement allows Clayton Construction to use the Which? logo wherever their work is seen. Tony Jackson, operations manager for Which? in the south west, said: “We were very impressed by the quality and professionalism shown by Mark and the team and were very pleased to welcome the business to the Which? trusted trader scheme.”

Affordable in Axbridge?

AN affordable housing consultation exercise is to take place in Axbridge which will include a survey and a drop-in event for people to offer their views.

Sedgemoor District Council, with support from Homes in Sedgemoor, will be hosting the drop-in event at Axbridge Town Hall on Thursday, October 30th between 3pm and 7pm.

Homes in Sedgemoor, which manages the council’s housing stock across the district, has identified two small parcels of council-owned land in Axbridge which have the potential to deliver around three new affordable homes.

A splendid detached converted Victorian pump house in rural lane location down private drive offering stylish versatile accommodation. Superb light and bright interior over two floors – three/four bedrooms, vaulted sitting room, study, living room & snug. Every window boasts a green view from this traffic free environment. Large garden & double garage. EPC: C ref: 24768

Wrington Tel: 01934 864300

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We optimise the potential of your unused space, specialising in loft, garage, basement and barn conversions.

Walnut Barn, 48 Church Lane, Hutton, Somerset BS24 9SN. Tel/fax: 01934 814444 • Mob: 07831 105630 E-mail: mark@claytonconstruction.co.uk Website: www.claytonconstruction.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 75

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MENDIP TIMES

Axbridge Blackberry Carnival

Members from ‘Tina’s Tots’ with their showcase of ‘101 Dalmatians’.

Civic parade

Photography by Daniel Albone

Part of the carnival parade

Members from ‘School of Performing arts’ with their showcase of ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ with onlookers of 101 Dalmatians from ‘Tina’s Tot’s’ PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

EVENTS

Linda and Jess, from the Crown Inn, on the Chamber of Commerce float, ‘Grease’.

Maggie Stanley, Rodger Maggs, John Albone & Sue Albone – members of the chamber of commerce featured with their showcase of ‘Grease’.

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Back to school – at 70

TWENTY-eight former pupils of the old Midsomer Norton Grammar School gathered for their annual reunion at The Court, Emborough, organised by Trevor Dury, who flies in from his home in Switzerland to make

sure everything runs smoothly.

Sixteen members of the ‘Class of 55’ were celebrating reaching the age of 70 this year, and a beautiful cake was made especially for the occasion by the former Hazel Kelly.

Two former teachers attended, and Alan Conley, who taught maths when the septuagenarians were at the school, gave a fascinating talk about his time there, with many amusing stories as seen from the other side of the classroom.

Alan Conley chats with Ann Watts and Andrea Bowden, who travelled from their homes in Wales and the Lake District respectively to meet up with old friends.

If you started at the school between 1952-1958 and would like information about next year’s event contact trevor.dury@gmail.com

Parish has designs on park

THE freehold of a popular park in Street has been successfully transferred to the village’s parish council, allowing it to move ahead with plans to enhance the area for the benefit of the local community.

The freehold of Merriman Park has passed from Mendip District Council to Street Parish Council, a move in keeping with the Localism Act which aims to devolve powers and responsibilities.

It has taken since March 2013 for the process to be completed after the parish approached Mendip. Public consultations came back as being largely in favour of the transfer.

Councillor Bob Smith, chairman of Street Parish Council said; “The parish council is pleased to take over control of the park after many years and we will be working with the community to bring about improvements.”

Prepare to be amazed

NEWS

A map of the 2014 carnival procession route. Organisers will begin a series of road closures from 6pm

THE new-look Midsomer Norton Carnival is expected to attract some of the biggest carts from the main Somerset circuit as the procession makes its return to the town centre and to Radstock for the first time in years.

Organisers say they have already received confirmation from around 20 clubs that they will take part in the procession on Monday, November 10th.

They include Gemini Carnival Club, Huckyduck CC, Cary Comedians CC and locally-based Mardons CC. They’ll be joined by walking entries and groups such as majorettes.

The carts will line up outside Westfield close to the White Post pub before heading for the start of the route, which will take the procession down Silver Street and through Midsomer Norton High Street, past Welton primary school and into Radstock town centre. It will then travel up the A367 to Westfield and the finish line just before the Methodist Church.

Amy Purchase, from the Midsomer Norton and District Carnival Association, said: “We’ve had great support from the town councils and everyone is very excited about carnival. We have also managed to recruit some new members to the association, which is very welcome.”

New cup for Shepton Carnival

COMPETITION is expected to be fierce for a new trophy at this year’s Shepton Mallet carnival for the best dressed walker in all age groups. The Kerslake Trophy – held by carnival president Don Clifford – has been donated in memory of Bob and Maura Kerslake by their family. Bob was a founder member of Shepton Mallet Carnival, which celebrates its 50th anniversary next year.

Maura was the founder secretary.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 77

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MENDIP TIMES

Chew Magna street party

11

Choir prepares for Christmas

December

BUILDING on the success of last year’s event, The Pelican and The Bear & Swan will be hosting the annual Chew Magna Christmas Street Party on Thursday 11th December.

The event kicks off at 4.30pm and continues on until late and will offer something for everyone. For the children there will be a Santa’s grotto, a fun bus, steam engines and carols.

For the hungry there will be a large hog roast, mince pies and for the thirsty mulled wine and cider as well as other festive tipples. It will also be the perfect opportunity for those who want to buy locally produced crafts and festive gifts.

This year there are exciting raffle prizes to be won in aid of the Penny Brohn cancer charity.

Chew Magna Christmas Street Party

Thursday December 11th from 4.30pm The Pelican and the Bear and Swan invite you to a fes ve party in the village car park Fes ve food, drinks, gi s and entertainment Christmas in Chew Magna

The Pelican 10, South Parade Chew Magna BS40 8SL 01275 331777

PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

The Bear and Swan 13, South Parade Chew Magna BS40 8PR 01275 331100

David Bednall, organist, composer and musical director of Chew Valley Choral Society

CHEW Valley Choral Society is back in rehearsals for its Christmas concert and welcomes new singers. Under the skilled direction of David Bednall, new singers, experienced or not, are welcome to join them to sample the joy of singing in this friendly, mixed choir.

There’s no audition and you don’t have to be able to read music, though you’ll soon find your sight reading improves enormously with weekly practice. More experienced members will help you

along too. It’s challenging and fun.

They sing some of the most beautiful choral music ever written. They will launch the Christmas season with a concert at St. Andrew’s Church, Chew Magna on November 29th featuring Duruflé’s Requiem and Five Mystical Songs by Ralph Vaughan Williams, together with his Fantasia on Christmas Carols.

The choir’s rehearsal accompanist, David Whitehead, will play the organ for this concert. Under its musical director, David Bednall, the soloists are Lucy Balderson (soprano) and Christopher Sheldrake (bass).

Tickets (£10, students and children £5) can be obtained from CVCS members, on the door, or telephone 01275 333014.

Wine will be available. The concert starts at 7.30pm.

Details: www.chewvalleychoral.org.uk or ring Helen Boyde on 01275 333014 or just turn up at 7.30pm on every Tuesday at Chew Stoke Hall for a friendly welcome.

Fireworks in Chew

The Chew Magna Society will hold its annual fireworks display at Chew Valley Rugby Club on Friday November 7th. The gates open at 7pm and the display will start at 8pm.

High Class Family Butcher

Quality you can trust

Traditional service Meat and produce from local farms

High Street, Chew Magna Tel: 01275 332417

Order Now for Christmas

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Support for Harvey

FOCUS ON CHEW VALLEY

THE third scarecrow trail raising funds for eight-year-old cancer victim Harvey Hext, from Winford, attracted 128 entries this year and hundreds of participants.

It included a festival at Winford Primary School, with a wide variety of stalls and attractions, including local food and crafts.

The family hopes to take Harvey to the US for treatment, but Harvey’s mum, Sarah, said they have had a setback: “It was so heart-warming to see so many people from the Chew Valley and further afield supporting us as a family. As always Samantha Probert put on a great community event.

“This has been a very difficult week for us as early tests suggest that Harvey's cancer may have spread but as ever we remain positive and feel very well supported by a fantastic community.”

Harvey is thought to be the only child in the world suffering from both Neuroblastoma and Downs Syndrome.

ROS ANSTEY

Sarah and Dave Hext with Olivia, 12, and twins Spencer ( left) and Harvey (right) by the Incredible Hulk on Winford Green

Details: https://www.facebook.com/HarveyHextAppeal

Caroline and Matthew Tranter with Emily and Mr Potato Head

(left to right) Rachel Pascoe, Sharon Goldstone and Carmen with Peppa Pig MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 79

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Arts Trail attracts the crowds

Christine Mann, Trudy Day, Suzanne Bowerman, Mo Taylor, Sandra Harris and Margaret Avery

THIS year's Chew Valley Arts Trail was another huge success, with large numbers of visitors pouring in to the area to visit 23 venues, which included village halls, studios and homes.

Now in its 12th year, organiser, Sandy Bell, said: “Once again we have seen a terrific turn-out with hundreds of visitors on both days. I was particularly pleased with the numbers of new faces who had come to see the work, which is very encouraging for the artists.

“It was great to see village centres much busier than for a normal October weekend, with pubs, cafés and shops doing brisk business. So we are proud to be doing our bit to boost the local economy.”

Ros Anstey

Amelia Sommer and Michael Bartlett

Hazel Hillman, Jenny Grant, Jennifer Davidson and Jean Laycock

Brock and Houlford Optometrists and Opticians

Eye Examinations, Sportvision, School Vision Assessments Spectacles, Contact Lenses, Family Eyecare.

33 High Street, Chew Magna, Bristol BS40 8PR Appointments 01275 332882 www.brockandhoulford.co.uk

Margaret Anstee

Protect your Home both Inside and Outside with

Valley Group UK Based in the Chew Valley Cleaning and Maintenance for the Winter The single professional source to tackle all your cleaning and maintenance needs making them ready for the coming cold months.

Cleaning Team: Oven Cleaning (Singles £40, Doubles £55-£60 + oven maintenance), Carpet cleaning, clearing and cleaning Gutters,Windows, Decking, Patios and outside walls.

Maintenance Team: Patio, Decking & Drive construction or refreshing, plus Building and Maintenance jobs inside and outside the home.

Office 01275 331297 Mobile 07897437373 www.valleygroupuk.com PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Pam Harman and Carole Moule

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CHEW VALLEY ARTS TRAIL

Margaret Anstee and Sal Jones

Sarah Jarrett-Kerr with some of her book binding work

Sandy Bell and Sylvia Westbrook

Helen Gordon

Tony Hucker TV Service – Sales – Rental Moira Robertson, Sally Rey, Sally Mellersh and Pam Sayer

• • • • • •

Satellite Installations Aerial Systems TV wall mounting Custom Installations Networking Signal Solutions

01275 332888 www.tonyhuckertv.co.uk Unit 4, Fairseat Workshops, Chew Stoke BS40 8XF Open: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm and Sat 9am-12 noon

Natasha Clutterbuck MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 81

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FAMILY BUSINESS BASED IN THE CHEW VALLEY FOR OVER 100 YEARS

It’s panto time

SUTTON Theatre Company are busy rehearsing for their pantomime at Bishop Sutton village hall. Little Red Riding Hood in Da Hood is written and directed by Abbey Pearson and James Knowles, who produced last year’s highly acclaimed Pantivity.

Performances are on November 28th and 29th and December 6th, with matinee performances on both Saturdays.

Details: 01761 452544

Christmas shopping made easy

ARE you looking for Christmas gift ideas? The experience of one exasperated shopper last year might well point you in the direction of the Trading Post in Chew Magna.

I remember last year when that dreaded time of year came around. Christmas. Armed with my shopping list filled with names and gift ideas, I headed off to town almost certain I’d find everything I needed there.

The streets of town were absolutely crammed with as many panicked mothers and fathers juggling kids as I thought possible to be in one place at a time.

Sweating and exhausted from running the length of town multiple times, I finally found an acceptable gift for my daughter, extremely overpriced though. Frantically rotating my head in search of the PAY HERE sign, I eventually found it above hundreds of people suffocating the till.

I remember thinking was this gift worth the queue. No, it really wasn’t. Returning home empty handed and completely gutted, on the way back I remembered that little shop in Chew Magna.

I pulled up along the High Street; the beautiful flowers caught my eye at The Valley Trading Post. When I walked in I was greeting was friendly and personal – I felt welcome. I looked around at all the lovely presents and gifts; I was completely spoilt for choice.

Not only did I find everything I was looking for but everything was gift wrapped gorgeously for free! I was very pleased with what I had bought and this little independent shop had lifted the massive weight off my shoulders, so easily after all.

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Christmas carvery

FOLLOWING the success of their Sunday carvery, the Prince of Waterloo at Winford is offering the same carvery style for Christmas dinners served on Thursdays and Fridays throughout December.

They are offering a full Christmas roast, with a choice of dishes, from just £10, so the advice is to book early! The Sunday carvery runs from 12noon – 6pm.

They are also currently running a two meals for £10 deal Monday and Tuesday 11am to 8.30pm and Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 6pm alongside their all-day menu which runs from Monday to Saturday 11am to 8.30pm.

TAXI!

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Long and short journeys to all destinations.

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Specialising in commercial work across the whole of the south west of England.

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07831 825527 peterbattltd@hotmail.co.uk

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

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orchardhse@ukgateway.net www.orchardhouse-chewstoke.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 83

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Rare visitors head for Chew

(photo courtesy of Mike Hannon)

CHEW Valley Lake is a magnet for birdwatchers and some rare visitors have not disappointed this year. In recent weeks the lake has played host to Osprey, an adult and a juvenile, a Great Skua, mainly seen attacking gulls, a Great White Egret and a Hen Harrier.

There have been big flocks of ducks, geese and Coots moving through or moulting at the lake. However, the water level is a little high this year so there may not be such large numbers of waders and dabbling ducks as they would normally expect.

If you are lucky you might see Black-necked Grebe, Little Egret, Garganey, Marsh Harrier, Hobby, Spotted Crake, Little Gull, Arctic Tern, Kingfishers and Whinchat.

Lakeside Optics keep a list of birds spotted.

With a huge range of stock and sizes from hedging whips to semi-mature specimen trees

Specialist growers of native and ornamental trees, shrubs and hedging Royal Horticultural Society Silver Gilt Medal winners at Hampton Court 2014

Open Monday – Saturday

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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FOCUS ON CHEW VALLEY

The Chew Valley property scene by Matthew Bingham, Associate Partner, Killens.

It’s 12 months since my previous report on the Chew Valley property market and 2014 has certainly been an interesting year.

Within the housing market we have seen a number of changes from a national, regional and local perspective.

The first quarter of the year started with a flurry of new properties and new buyers returning to the market, buoyed with increasing confidence continuing from the latter quarter of 2013.

The market was looking very favourable at this point and it would appear that 2014 was the year the property market was finally going to get back to the days prior to the Northern Rock and subsequent banking failings of 2008.

During the first quarter of the year Killens were constantly achieving offers in excess of 97% of properties asking prices in what was fast becoming a seller’s market as competition to buy the dream home in the Chew Valley was hotting up.

Then in April of this year the Government introduced new, stricter lending criteria for mortgage borrowers, which involved applicants submitting details about every monthly commitment they have including gym memberships, mobile phone contracts and how often they took the family pooch to the poodle parlour!

We heard ridiculous accounts of six-hour telephone interviews for mortgage applications and local valuers were being put under increasing pressure to justify property valuations by mortgage companies. These new lending requirements introduced to curtail the fast moving housing market certainly worked – upon introduction mortgage approval rates fell to their lowest level for some time. With this in mind buyer numbers have dwindled as

finance becomes harder to acquire.

Due to the decreasing buyer numbers, housing stock has also taken a downward turn, meaning there isn’t as much choice on the market for those that are able to buy. As a result we have seen vast gaps appearing within the market place especially in the £400,000 – £600,000 family home price brackets.

This raises the question of what will happen in 2015? Well the key issue for next year is already a hot topic of discussion, the 2015 general election. Historically in the build up to an election the housing market doesn’t fluctuate too much so I am expecting not too much change in the early part of next year and would anticipate prices staying at their current level.

On a more local note, 2014 saw the retirement of a long standing competitor of ours in Chew Magna. Now Setter and Lee have ceased trading Killens are the longest established firm of property agents in Chew Magna, we have been trading from our South Parade office for six years.

We also have more offices than our direct competitors with an additional residential office in Wells and our Commercial and Agricultural office in Ston Easton, so Killens are able to look after all your property requirements. As well as property sales, letting, commercial, planning and agricultural divisions, Killens also run the centrally located Mendip Auction Rooms at Rookery Farm, Binegar, attracting buyers from across the region and around the world. So if you are contemplating moving in 2015 contact your local Killens office where a member of the team will be happy to discuss your property requirements.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 85

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MENDIP TIMES

Life and death

By Dr PHIL HAMMOND

WE all have to experience grief at some time and we all cope in our own way. When my father died, I was seven but I coped – then and now – by thinking what would my dad want for me? I knew he would want me to get the most from my one wild, short and precious life.

I love this story below, because it shows a wonderful man caring for his wife, coming to terms with her death and learning that life must go on.

”My wife had multi infarct dementia and when she came towards what I've since realised was the end, she stopped eating and drinking. Because I then had these difficult decisions to make and I was obsessed. OK I was still going out to dance because you have to have diversions, if you don't have diversions you would go mad yourself.

But every day I had to run over the decision about whether we were doing the right thing.

Whether, and every day I said to myself and I used to say when I got to the home: “Have you tried her with food today? How did she get on?”

“She had a yoghurt and half a spoonful of custard,” and so on. That was a tremendous turning point because the guilt then was different. Am I condemning her to die by taking this attitude, you know. And then having to reconcile the guilt with the fact that when I was out dancing I was really enjoying myself. Obviously I couldn't inflict that on other people. I don't know whether that requires a split personality but I suppose I really had one.

But the interesting thing about the final turning point which of course on her death was that just, after the initial emotional impact, was the tremendous relief that it brought you know. Again, something that made you feel slightly guilty but you had to reconcile your feeling of guilt, you had to balance it with the fact that it was so much better for her.

She'd stopped suffering, she'd gone peacefully, she'd gone without pain, you'd done your best so really you didn't really need to feel all that guilty.

And I must say that although I wouldn't have believed it at the time and perhaps for some two or three months afterwards, I must say that I now find myself talking to my wife, or to her photograph as though she were still here. But talking without any inhibitions at all, without any feelings of guilt.

So that was a tremendous turning point really. Whatever has happened to her since she died it's certainly made a big difference from my point of view. And we're still, we're still good mates.”

There are many other insightful and moving stories on the Health Talk website – www.healthtalk.org my favourite health website. It simply uses the experiences of patients and carers in the NHS to help and guide others confronting the same illnesses and situations.

I tell medical students and doctors to use it too. If empathy can be taught, it will be from patient stories. And I'd really recommend listening to people when they’re dying. They have nothing to lose and so much of interest to say.

We only die once, so it's worth putting some thought into it. I'd recommend www.dyingmatters.org for good information. And for a Christmas present, why not try my new book, What Doctors Really Think, available at www.drphilhammond.com

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Living in the real world

I UNDERSTAND that the main purpose of parenthood is to raise my children, enabling them to become independent people who can function in the real world and contribute positively to society.

Eldest child is nearly raised. She will always be my child but she is becoming an independent young adult, studying for her Alevels, thinking about university courses, working, earning money and budgeting; and soon learning to drive. Now she is considering working towards her Duke of Edinburgh gold award.

What parent wouldn’t feel proud of this aspiration? After all, the Duke of Edinburgh scheme helps young people focus their energies on gaining skills, physical fitness and volunteering and in this respect encourages them to grow into fully-rounded adults.

The “skills” section should enable them to learn something useful to take into the world.

“I am going to do egg painting,” eldest child announces. I am honest in my response and ask her how egg painting is going to help her in the future: “It could save my life,” she explains.

I am failing to follow this train of thought. “If I am kidnapped and the only way I can buy my freedom is to paint an egg then I will be saved.

Oh and it would be a good skill to learn that won’t interfere with my studies and I think we might have an egg painting kit somewhere.”

A short time later I actually find myself googling “egg painting” until I talk myself into getting a grip on reality.

Youngest son thinks it is a great idea but given that his own grip on reality is fairly weak that’s not surprising. Inspired by doom-laden news of the latest pandemic that threatens humanity, he recently announced that the world would end soon. His apocalyptic vision was that we were all going to turn into zombies and he would save the world with his super powers and return everyone to their human state.

As he chats to his best friend about this his friend’s mother turns to me and says: “I always thought my son was in his own little world but I now realise your son is there too!”

A short time later middle child asks youngest son in exasperation: “Why are you making those weird noises?” whilst youngest son tears around making explosive sounds. He replies: “It’s just my imagination ticking.”

Clearly there is a little more work to be done to fully equip them to function in the real world but given the current state of affairs, I might just leave them be.

MENDIP MUM

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Honour for hairdresser

HEALTH & FAMILY

Suzanne in her hair salon in Faulkland

Hair By

Suzanne Elizabeth

GRATEFUL clients of young hairdresser Suzanne Brodrick said thank you in the nicest possible way – by voting for her in a competition.

Suzanne, who runs Hair by Suzanne Elizabeth in Faulkland, asked her clients whether they would support her in the Somerset Hairdresser of the Year competition, run by a series of local newspapers. She said: “I was completely shocked when they told me I had won!”

Suzanne, 27, trained at Bath College and worked for a hair salon in Trowbridge before deciding she wanted to start her own business. Today, people come from Wiltshire and Bath but Suzanne is also welcoming new clients from Wells, Midsomer Norton and surrounding villages such as Mells.

Suzanne, who lives in nearby Norton St. Phillip, offers hair services for women, men and children as well as technical services such as colour and permanent straightening. She is also seeing a growing number of enquiries about bridal hair.

Suzanne added: “Opening in Faulkland has definitely been a good move. Some of my former clients are coming to see me and I’m seeing a lot of new faces.”

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Wart a new treatment

The Foot Faerie: Sue treats a client

T: 01749 372404 W: www.footfaerie.co.uk E: footfaerie@gmail.com

PODIATRIST Sue Boothroyd says scientific research into the use of ‘needling’ to treat verrucae is being borne out by her own treatments.

Known as the Foot Faerie, because of her gentle methods, Sue is now offering Verruca Needling treatments. Sue says the method involves numbing the area and treating the verruca that first appeared. As the verruca is needled an inflammatory response occurs. It is this response that usually makes the verruca disappear. Needling can be used on all verrucae, but it is particularly successful when people have multiple verrucae.

Usual verruca treatments include cryotherapy and applying salicylic acid. Needling is not extensively practiced in the UK, even though it has been known about since 1969. Sue said: “What is remarkable is that only the first verruca (that appeared) needs to be treated; it and the others usually disappear without leaving any scarring.”

Sue graduated from the London Foot Hospital (part of University College Hospital) in 1983. Since then she has gained a broad range of clinical experience, treating people of all ages with a variety of foot complaints; working for the NHS, in private practice and corporate clients.

Sue, who practices in Wells and Street, is an HCPC registered podiatrist and is a member of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. She sees everyone as an individual and provides a thorough, professional approach to treating foot complaints.

Verruca Needling was discovered by a podiatrist in the United States (G W Falknor), in 1969. Recent research into needling, by podiatrists in Hampshire, discovered that out of a total of 45 patients (admittedly a small sample), a total of 31 – 69% – demonstrated complete resolution of verrucae. Three patients demonstrated a reduction in size and pain, whilst 11 showed no improvement. No adverse events were noted.

PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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HEALTH & FAMILY

Helping with thinning hair

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This is then followed by the three-step fuller hair programme, including their thickening shampoo, conditioner and aqua mousse for added volume. Finally, for a salon perfect finish, your hairdresser will apply their thicker hair and denser hair serums to really transform your hair’s appearance and help you get the look you’ve always dreamed of.

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PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Page 90

HEALTH & FAMILY

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EDUCATION

Dream comes true

WHEN mother-of-three Claire White graduates at the University of the West of England in November, it will be a dream come true for the former student at Norton Radstock College.

Claire, 39, from Radstock, decided to return to studying after her third daughter, Amelia, was born six years ago and she has now gained a first in her degree in midwifery.

She is working as a qualified midwife in Bristol and is loving every minute of it, but says if it hadn’t been for the college’s access to higher education course she would never have done it.

Claire, who also has daughters Ella, 15, and Gabrielle, 11, praised her parents, John and Janette, who live in Frome, for their help: “They have been amazing, when I had a bad day or when Tutor Jim Hall with Claire White I felt low my mum would say ‘I can’t wait to see you graduate’ and that would added: “I had worked in a shop in Bath keep me going.” since leaving school and when I was due She studied the access course for to go back to work after having Amelia, health and social care at the college on a I thought it was now or never if I was to part-time basis for two years while go to college instead.

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MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 91

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MENDIP TIMES

We’ve got ASBOS – and we’re proud of them!

PILTON is undoubtedly bestknown for being the home of the Glastonbury Festival – not that the thousands who flock there would

By SIMON see much of the SELBY village.

Once the miles of fencing and hundreds of security staff have disappeared, Pilton returns to being very much a quintessential Somerset idyll. But it doesn’t maintain its immaculate appearance without a lot of hard work . . . meet the ASBOS! Eight years ago, a small team of volunteers got together to begin the task of tidying up the village’s hedgerows and footpaths, repairing stiles and generally doing the jobs which the local authorities were no longer doing due to financial circumstances.

The same fingerpost before the ASBO team set to work, clearing undergrowth before repainting could begin

Surviving winter

John Pratt, Godfrey Gingell, Dudley Clapp and Phill Franks by one of the newly-repainted fingerposts in Pilton

The team – ranging in age from their 50s to 70s – were out working one day when the village postman passed by and joked that he was not aware that OAPs were ever given ASBOs. It inspired the team to come up with their name: Ageing Suave Broompushing Operatives!

With the support of Pilton Parish Council, the team have acquired the necessary insurances and undergone health and safety training to continue their work.

They have also been awarded funding from the parish council, Mendip District Council, Co-op community funds and O2 Communications.

Their latest project has been to repair and redecorate the parish’s iconic fingerposts.

They’ve refurbished five so far this year – each one takes about six weeks to complete

AS we begin to count down the days to Christmas, it’s worth remembering that the winter season is not always jolly for some of our older people, especially those struggling to pay their fuel bills.

Somerset Community Foundation pioneered the Surviving Winter campaign which encourages people who are entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment but may not need it to donate it to the foundation. It, in turn, works with Age UK Somerset to distribute the funds.

SCF found that an estimated 400 vulnerable people in Somerset died in the 2012/13 winter from causes directly attributable to the cold and poor living conditions; over 90% were aged 65 or over. For every winter-related death, dozens

(preparing, undercoat, top coat and allowing the paint to dry) and they have around a dozen more to do. The team works most weeks from March to October and last year put in some 200 hours around the parish.

John Pratt, who founded the ASBOs, said: “The number of the team is now about right but we are all getting older, which does not help, but it does show some of the younger people what is required to keep the village looking tidy and safe.”

The team is always looking for financial support to cover the £500 annual cost of maintaining tools and equipment but the members are also more than happy to offer their advice to any other villages who would like to start something similar.

more will fall seriously ill or suffer great hardship.

The scheme provides direct financial support to the most vulnerable older people in our communities, helping them to meet stay warm, active and healthy. It also supports essential services such as Meals on Wheels, lunch clubs and community transport projects.

G Somerset Community Foundation is run by Justin Sargent and his team from offices at the Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet.

I am pleased to report that Justin has been honoured with a High Sheriff of Somerset Award for the foundation’s work during last winter’s floods. I will be writing more about that,

Donations can be made in the following ways: online at: http://www.somersetcf.org.uk/special-projects/surviving-winter or by calling the SCF office on 01749 344949. If you are over 60 and wish to apply for support to meet the cost of winter you can contact Age UK Somerset on 0845 6434621.

PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Honour for Alan

COMMUNITY

Methodist chapel closes

The Rev Julie Letts with some of the congregation at Ubley Methodist Church's last service

ALAN Griffiths, aged 90, from Congresbury, the former owner of the village post office, has just celebrated 50 years of Rotary membership, during which he has been honoured several times for his outstanding contributions to the movement.

He was awarded with a Paul Harris Fellowship in 1988; later a second fellowship with two sapphires; and finally a third fellowship with three rubies, the highest award that is possible in the Rotary organisation.

At a recent meeting of Wrington Vale Rotary Club, he was presented with a further certificate from Rotary International to recognise his 50 years of membership.

He’s pictured (right) with Brian Kirkup, past district governor, and Wrington Vale president, Tony Thurling.

Volunteers meet

SOMERSET Sight, the local independent charity for sight impaired people, organised a volunteer support meeting at Coxley Memorial Hall for their volunteer visitors, who visit 135 people right across the county to provide companionship and support. The guest speaker was Claire Clothier from the Alzheimer’s Society.

Claire Packwood, volunteer visitor co-ordinator for the area, said the meeting was a great success: “It was particularly useful for volunteer visitors to learn more about the subject of dementia.

Our volunteers make a huge difference to those they support.”

Details: Gloria 01823 366146 Gloria@somersetsight.org.uk Alzeimers’s Society 01935 473597. Somerset Sight www.somersetsight.org.uk

UBLEY Methodist Church has held its last service before closing its doors for good. Church membership had dwindled so drastically that members felt that that they could no longer sustain the upkeep of the building.

The Rev Julie Letts, who has been minister there for three years, said: “It is an extremely sad outcome for me personally but one that I respect because I know that this would not have been an easy decision for the church community to make.”

The building will now be sold and its contents distributed to other churches in Ubley and around the Methodist circuit.

The church was packed as church members past and present and from other areas flocked in to enjoy a last service there.

Included in the congregation were Chris and Eric Melton, and their family, who have a long history with the church.

Chris, who was council secretary with the church, said: “We, through the George family, have been connected with the chapel for at least three generations. Kelson George (grandfather) was a local preacher and grandmother, Matilda, played the organ. Their sons, Howard and Kenneth, were a senior steward and the organist for many years.

“Daughter Marjorie stayed in the background and kept things running smoothly. She was married to Don Melton who was the organist for over 50 years. Eric has been a steward for about 45 years and I have been for around 35 years .We are obviously very sad at the chapel closing.”

Ubley Methodist Church was opened on December 30th, 1863 by the Rev. Peter Mackenzie. The chapel has a pipe organ built and installed

by Sweetlands of Bath in 1888, which had a complete restoration in 1977.

In 1903 the schoolroom was enlarged to create a vestry and organ chamber at a cost of £225, while the pine pews were made at Pictured (left to right) church Ubley sawmills and cost 32 stewards John and Vita Jenkins, Eric and Chris Melton shillings and six pence each.

The chapel was granted and the Rev Julie Letts on the Grade 2 Listed Building steps of Ubley Methodist Church status in 1987.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 93

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MENDIP TIMES

Charity walk for mum

Rachel Starr (left) and Karen Goodard (right)

RACHEL Starr is arranging A Moonlight Charity Walk for Saturday November 8th in memory of her mum, Karen Goddard, who died on August 30th after battling with cancer.

The walk will take in all the places she used to like to walk in and around Paulton, Midsomer Norton and Westfield with her sister-in-law Sharon and her friend Chris, and past key places in Karen's life such as her old school, where she lived as a child, and Welton Rovers Football Club.

The walk starts and finishes at the Winterfield Inn, Paulton (thanks to Abi and John), where there will be entertainment, food and a raffle.

All proceeds will go to the RUH for a special oxygen machine like the one Karen used in her final days keeping her comfortable and giving her family precious last moments with her. Depending on how much is raised and how much a machine costs, money may also be donated to Cancer Research UK.

Cards for a good cause

THE charity Cards for Good Causes is celebrating 30 years of selling Christmas Cards in St John’s Church, Frome after their pop-up shop opened on Saturday, October 18th.

The charity said it would like to thank all at St John’s Church for their help and support over the past 30 years and in particular all the loyal volunteers who freely give their time to help sell the cards, as well as customers old and new.

This year the shop will be open from 10am – 4pm, Monday to Saturday until December 17th. By coincidence, on Saturday, October 18th, St John’s Church held a soup and puds lunch combined with a bring and buy sale.

Jean genies for genes

CHILDREN and staff at Ubley Primary School enjoyed a day off from uniform when they held a Jeans for Genes day, raising £70 for the charity, which helps children with genetic disorders.

Tackling the Chinese Wall for cancer FOURTEEN people from Bath, Bristol, Somerset and Wiltshire have completed an incredible ten-day charity challenge trekking the Great Wall of China, raising £45,000 for cancer care at the Royal United Hospital in Bath.

They spent only two days on the ‘tourist’ sections, with the remainder left to tackle the stony, steep and often slippery pathway that winds between watch towers, traditional farming villages, valleys and mountains.

The RUH trekkers, of which five are staff at the hospital, included Dr Dorothy Goddard who is Associate Medical Director for Cancer Strategy at the Trust, Dr Hugh Goddard, Rebecca Brooks, Karen Burge, Russell Corbett, Jacqueline Cousins, Sarah Leybourne, Paula Richards, Christine Walters, Sue Gilby, Sally Smith, Patricia Symons, Alex Whiting and Biddy Walcot.

Karen Burge, from Midsomer Norton, said: “It’s the most amazing and difficult thing I've ever done! We had laughter and tears and some great friendships were formed on the Great Wall of China. It was an unforgettable experience.

“This time four years ago I was having cancer treatment and struggled to get up the stairs in my house and I can't believe what I've just achieved! We arrived in China a group of strangers and came back a team. Everyone had their personal reasons for being there but all wanting to make a difference.”

The Forever Friends Appeal’s RUH Cancer Care Campaign is

PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Standing (from left to right): Russell Corbett, Christine Walters, Dr Hugh Goddard, Rebecca Brooks, Karen Burge, Paula Richards, Sarah Leybourne, Jacqueline Cousins, Biddy Walcot, Patricia Symons and Sally Smith. Seated (from left to right): Dr Dorothy Goddard, Sue Gilby and Alex Whiting

raising £8.5 million towards a pioneering Cancer Centre at The Royal United Hospital in Bath. The hospital is planning on replacing its outdated 1940s cancer facilities, with a state-of-theart £23.5 million Cancer Centre (66% NHS funded/33% charitable funds) that will bring treatment ‘under one roof’.

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CHARITIES

Abseilers take centre stage THE world-famous Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury Festival was transformed into a spectacular fundraising arena when dozens of people jumped at the chance to abseil from the structure.

Around 300 people from across the country climbed a scaffold tower to virtually the apex of the stage before making their descent.

Their efforts raised more than £30,000 for the Shepton Mallet-based charity SOS Africa.

Valerie Evans, part of the SOS ‘A’ Team makes her descent . . .

Glastonbury Festival organiser Michael Eavis with Matt Crowcombe, who founded SOS Africa A smile for the cameras

… and tests the quality of her medal with fellow abseilers Gerry Lock (left) and Dave Crowcombe

Jade shows no fear

Ashley Edwards was one of the first to scale the stage MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 95

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MENDIP TIMES

Nursery sale

Club’s food bank talk

MEMBERS of Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel made their own contributions to the Somer Valley Food Bank after a talk by Joy Fraser from the charity.

Launched in January 2013, the bank’s 70 volunteers have so far distributed 851 vouchers providing food for more than 2,308 individuals (including 937 children) who social agencies had identified as suffering from benefit delays or changes, debt and low income. Its centres have distributed more than 1,800 tons of food collected from individual donations, supermarkets, churches and schools’ harvest festivals.

Actor makes a difference

WHEN Mogghill Annex Pre-school, based at St. John's Church Hall, Peasedown St. John closed the staff decided to hold a sale of all their toys, books and unwanted equipment in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

They sorted, cleaned and priced toys for two days and served home-made cakes and tea on the day of the sale raising £900. St. John’s Church committee donated another £200 to their total and Di Jackson, owner of Mogghill Nursery School, St. Ben's School, Westfield rounded up the figure to £1,200.

Pictured are Di Jackson presenting a cheque to Wendy Evans, local representative of the MND Association, with Rebecca Nuth and Jackie Townhill who helped organise the sale (along with Jane Veale) and the children of Mogghill Nursery School.

Children’s gift

DEBBIE Wilton who runs the Wells Holiday Park, Haybridge recently decided to have her hair cut off for the Little Princess Trust charity, which supplies specialist wigs for children receiving cancer treatment.

THE stage and screen star Sir Ian McKellen was the guest speaker at a diversity event at Norton Hill School in Midsomer Norton. Away from his work in films such as The Lord of the Rings, Hobbit and X Men, Sir Ian is a co-founder of Stonewall, the anti-homophobic charity.

The charity was launched in 2006 and has now helped over 2,200 boys and girls. Debbie is keen to let others know about the plight of these children and to make the same gift by donating their hair, which must be at least seven inches long.

Details: http://www.littleprincesses.org.uk/ PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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Students have a coffee break!

Students Rebecca Stiff, from Peasedown St John, Chris Pike, from Chilcompton, Kieran Lye, from Bath, Charmaine Hamblin, from Welton, Ben Hill, from Coleford and Andrew Clifford, from Saltford

FOUNDATION Learning students at Norton Radstock College made and sold tea, coffee and cakes as part of the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research.

Inspired by television’s Great British Bake-Off, the students prepared courgette cake, apple cake, chocolate brownies and coffee and walnut cake – among others – to raise £120 for the charity.

Mells swells Benny Boy charity fund

Calendar boys

CHARITIES

CERIAN Adams, founder of Happily Ever After Dog Rescue at Dundry has launched a fundraising calendar in time for Christmas. Fabulous Farriers and Wonderful Rescue Woofs has a hunky farrier and dog for each month, photographed by local equine vet Phil Richards.

Cerian has a mission to rescue as many dogs as possible, mainly from abroad. The calendars retail at £10 each and will be on sale in local tack shops, feed merchants, hairdressers and various other shops.

A mass warm-up before the start of the event

A 10-kilometre, cycle, run and walk around Mells village has raised around £28,000 for a children’s charity.

The “non race” event was organised by the parents of Ben Crutchley in aid of the CLIC Sargent children’s cancer charity.

Nige and Su Nige Crutchley Crutchley, of Newbury near Coleford have now raised more than £200,000 through various events for the Benny Boy fund.

The next is a dinner in Frome on November 22nd.

Nige said: “A total of 113 people took part in the event; the majority were runners. I want to thank everyone for their support.”

Cerian and her daughter Daisy with two of her dogs who are looking for homes – Cleo and Roxie

Details: happilyeverafterdogrescue@hotmail.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 97

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NEWS

Feeling sheepish – not Steve!

Ewe must be soaking!

STEVE Hodges had some of the locals at the Holcombe Inn scratching their heads when he said he was off to London to exercise his right to drive sheep across London Bridge.

But he wasn’t joking. Steve, who is Mechanical, Electrical and Energy Manager with North Somerset Council, was invited some years ago to become a member of The Worshipful Company of Fuellers, one of the City of London’s livery companies.

As a Freeman of the City he was allowed to exercise an ancient right of trade or privilege by taking sheep over the bridge without having to pay a toll – they used the footpath and bus lane for the purpose. Steve, who lectures all over the country on energy matters, said: “I was given the opportunity to drive my sheep over London Bridge thanks to The Worshipful Company of Woolmen, who provided the sheep. However please don’t fret about what is happening to them – every part of the ceremony is overseen by animal charities, vets, public health officials etc.”

Steve, aged 60, lives in Coleford with his wife Lynn. They have two daughters Victoria and Alex.

The sheep didn’t appear to be bothered by the heavy rain

THE annual Glastonbury sheep run took place in heavy rain with organisers, stall holders and spectators all struggling in the face of the elements.

Only the stars of the show – members of the Mallow Flock from Evercreech – appeared not to be bothered by the weather.

The run heralded the start of the Glastonbury Wool and Fibre Festival, which coincided with British Wool Week, and maintained the traditional right of the Freemen of Glastonbury to drive their flocks down the High Street to the Market Place.

Shipham boosts air ambulance

Members of the Woolly Wednesdays knitting club gather in the Mocha Berry Café for a special get together to coincide with the event. They usually meet in the Bocobar

THE Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Service has been presented with a cheque for £2,000 from the Friends of Shipham Schools fundraising organisation – F.O.S.S. The money was raised by parents of children at Shipham First and Shipham Pre-School at a black tie event, The Hollywood Glitz Ball, earlier this year, attended by almost 300 people from the surrounding villages.

Air Ambulance volunteers Colin Thomas and Anita Townsend received a giant cheque, presented by the main sponsor of the ball and local businessman, Ian Studley. Pictured are several of the children, headteacher Mr. Mike Jory, Ian Studley and parents Tessa Menhennet and Mel Edmonds.

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Shepherd Lisa Williams guides the flock down the High Street followed by the Freemen of Glastonbury

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MENDIP TIMES

KIngfisher ’s successful open day KINGFISHER’S open days are always a little special. Sometimes they’re very special. And August 30th at Mill Batch Farm was very special indeed.

The weather played its part, with a gentle breeze, but plenty of late summer sun to encourage a steady stream of visitors. A good number arrived early to meet James Heappey, the Conservative candidate for the Wells constituency.

Like everyone else who attended, James liked the cakes. Tray after tray appeared, as if on a conveyor belt and the words of Oscar Wilde came to mind – I can resist everything but temptation. So, to be honest, no one tried. Instead they relaxed in Kingfisher’s garden, in their conservatories and in their newlyrefurbished showroom.

Designed by local interior designer Liz Lavender, the showroom reflects the approach that sets Kingfisher apart from its competitors. As a long-established customer put it: “Kingfisher people are always helpful. They are knowledgeable, polite and never, ever pushy.”

The Kingfisher range of windows and conservatories was much admired but the real “star of the show” was the new tiled conservatory roof, on full display for the first time. Director, Peter Hicks, said: “I knew that there was interest out there but I didn’t realise just how much. I was just blown away by everyone’s enthusiasm and we’re already building a good order book.”

Managing director, Angie Hicks, sported a permanent smile, as did her proud father, John Fisher, who founded the company 28 years ago. Since then the firm has grown and flourished, whilst

PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

HOMES & INTERIORS

still retaining the family values on which it was established.

Angie said: “My father instilled in us the importance of treating customers as friends, he hated cheap gimmicks and knew that people would always see through ‘offers’ that were too good to be true. We have maintained that philosophy and firmly believe that it is the reason why we have so many happy customers – or maybe it’s the cakes!”

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Happy first birthday

DREAM Doors North Somerset is celebrating the first anniversary of its showroom opening at 5, The Precinct, Congresbury, BS49 5JG. Business owners, Colin and Camilla Abbiss, can offer a complete service for your kitchen from a makeover to a brand new design. They said: “It has been a successful first year and we are looking forward to continuing to provide an excellent service for our customers”.

Dream Doors North Somerset is part of a nationwide network of 54 showrooms who are the UK’s largest kitchen face-lift retailers. They welcome feedback through the independent consumer monitoring website Checkatrade.com generating many testimonials with average scores of 9.8 out of 10.

Their view is that a kitchen is the heart of a home. With anything from a simple door swap to a fully fitted new kitchen Dream Doors can offer an award-winning service with top quality products and using local quality craftsmen. Visit their showroom or call 01934 832361 to arrange a no-obligation quotation.

PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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JACKSONS

Jacksons Fencing – news, topical treats and more . . .

Raised beds give you so much more

AUTUMN is well and truly here and those mellow, golden days of late September and October, that fool us into thinking the end of the summer isn't quite as bad as feared, are dwindling.

Being such a summer lover can make me a bit gloomy, as the nights draw in and the clocks go back.

We've been here before of course, I know I'm not alone in turning to "activities" as the antidote to the onset of winter blues. It follows quite naturally that as foliage dies down and leaves fall, having a bit of an autumn tidy up strikes you as the sensible thing to do, especially when you realise the temperature is about 10 degrees lower than you've been used to and it is more conducive to bursts of activities like scrubbing, jet-washing, raking up leaves etc., than relaxing on the lounger, with your Kindle.

Hopefully there is room amongst this cleaning frenzy to actually do a bit of constructive stuff. Take stock, as the garden's shape and size is revealed, by clearing up the clutter and pruning the

Thanks to David Padgham for this lovely project with raised beds, you can see more on the customer projects pages on the website

The Float Garden by David Magner with split level deck and raised bed adds interest to the garden by adding a variety of shapes and heights.

WIN

A PA I R O F R A I S E D B E D K I T S

old growth. How about getting a project underway like creating some raised beds? These are becoming increasingly popular, with media exposure extolling the virtues of raising the level of your gardening, as seen in many gardening DIY and makeover programmes.

It certainly helps to make weeding and harvesting that much easier if you raise the height of the plants you are growing, especially if you have back problems or other physical conditions that limit bending. However there's a lot more to them than convenience. Raised beds are being used as an integral part of garden design schemes, where they contain veg or flowers and shrubs creating separate growing areas. As shown in the photo at the top of the page, one of our raised bed kits has been incorporated, in the split-level decking next to the Zone shelter. The designer planned this, not just for aesthetic reasons, but to cater for the ericaceous (lime hating) plants he wanted to use in this part of the garden, like the beautiful red Maple (Acer), with

Enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win a pair of Jacksons raised bed kits.

Simply log on to your local page, address below and follow the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 31.01.15. To enter go to: www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/bathlocal

the ferns.

So raised beds can give you the chance to keep soil types separate. They can also add interesting shape and structure.

The other photo bottom left is an impressive example, sent to me by David Padgham for the customer projects section on the website. Rather than using our raised beds kits he has used ungrooved Jakwall timbers in a very clever way, making beds for water features, some are Alpine beds and a nifty bench seat is included too.

Here's a test for you, look at the picture, then imagine it without the raised beds. It would just be a flower bed, some paving and the fence – pretty boring really! I think I know which I prefer. To find out more go to your local page www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/bathlocal or call 0800 408 4754 to talk to your local Jacksons Fencing Centre. louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 103

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MENDIP TIMES

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Carpets Vinyls Wood Flooring Safety flooring specialist Natural flooring Bespoke rugs Mix and match designer range Domestic and commercial supplied and fitted Showroom 1, Evercreech Junction, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 6NA T: 01749 831578 • www.dr-carpets.co.uk

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Tel: 07516 118198 Or: 01761 432469 Email: boilers@jamiecrawfordheating.com PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

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One year on, City Decorating Supplies is in the pink

HOMES & INTERIORS

Tel: 01749 677299

citydecoratingsupplies@gmail.com

Thinking of decorating your home in time for Christmas celebrations?

We have everything under one roof

To celebrate our first anniversary in Wells, we are offering all our customers who spend a minimum of £50 instore the chance to enter our draw to win a large Fortnum & Mason hamper!

Plus for youngsters, there’s a chance to win one of two BMW i8 remote control cars!

Add elegance and style with our extensive range of Little Greene paint and wallpaper

Paint mixed on the premises – any size, any finish. Expert advice on products for restoration and conservation work Mike Tucker and Jack – the shop mascot – have been backing the Little Greene fundraising efforts for The Haven

THE phrase “paint the town red” took on a whole new meaning at City Decorating Supplies in Wells in October.

Led by Mike and Jan Tucker, the family business was a wholehearted supporter of a fundraising campaign by the luxury Little Greene paint and wallpaper company in aid of The Haven breast cancer support centres around the country.

City Decorating Supplies – celebrating its first annniversary in Wells – sold pink-labelled Little Greene pots of paint and rolls of paper from which the company made donations to the charity. The Haven is currently fundraising to create a new centre in Hampshire, which will cover the Wessex region.

Mike is a main stockist for Little Greene products and said he was delighted to support their efforts. He said: “I think my customers were pleasantly surprised to learn that a paint manufacturer such as Little Greene should behave in such a socially responsible way.”

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MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 105

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MENDIP TIMES

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EVENTS

Photography by Bob Bowen

Wrington Apple Day

Page 29

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A “musical dynamo”

SARA Lovell began to play the piano, aged four, and the cello, aged seven, joining the National Youth Orchestra at 13. At the age of 16 she was offered places at both the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music, but opted to study at the Royal Northern College of Music where she gained her G.Mus.with honours.

From there she went on to study at the Royal College of Music, taking an Advanced Performers Course and gaining her Diploma RCM (teachers) with honours.

Sara has played at various international venues and has both recorded and broadcast live for radio, recorded for film and appeared in solo recitals and talks for festivals and music societies throughout the UK, Canada, the EU and Switzerland.

Sara has been teaching for over 20 years and has an elite teaching practice in the South West of England, which concentrates on the use of accelerated learning techniques both up to and including degree and diploma level Her first book, 'Cellotude – a Fast track to Brilliance', has already been highly acclaimed by the conductors Peter Stark and Marin Alsop, the Royal Academy of Music, the Royal Northern College of Music, Chetham's School of Music and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, and was published by Beautiful Books Ltd. Sara produced her first CD in 2004, which resulted in a highly acclaimed double album release of the Bach Cello Suites in May 2005. She has been described as a 'musical dynamo' by Musical Opinion and completed a highly successful solo tour of Eastern Canada in May 2006.

Recent performances include the Brahms 'Double' concerto, the Haydn C major concerto and many other concerts – the latest recital being with Nicholas Oliver at St George’s, Bristol.

Guitar virtuoso comes to Chantry for Christmas

A COMBINATION of a virtuoso folk/classical guitarist and the candle-lit Grade I listed gem of Holy Trinity Church in Chantry, near Frome, promises to provide a Christmas concert with a difference.

Richard Durrant – known as the “Guitar Whisperer” – shows dazzling technical brilliance featuring works inspired by folk, early music, pagan and Christian traditions. Richard will be accompanied by special guest Amy Kakoura, a hugely talented jazz, soul and folk singer.

Holy Trinity church was built with Doulting stone between 1844 and 1846 by local ironmaster James Fussell IV and was constructed in the grounds of his house, The Chantry at the high point of the ironworks dynasty’s fortunes.

The church will benefit from a percentage of the profits which will go to its upkeep. The concert takes place on Friday, November 28th. Tickets are £12 for adults, £6 for children under 12, available from Nunney Spar, Mells Community Shop and the Vobster Inn. They can also be bought using Paypal via the WACCA web-site at www.chantryandwhatley.webs.com , or from Vivienne Pay on 01373-836571 or viviennepay@gmail.com

Champion cadets

MUSIC

MEMBERS of the Devon & Somerset Air Cadet Band are celebrating being officially recognised as the best in the South West after winning seven out of eight music disciplines in the Air Training Corps South West Region Band Competition.

Pictured are the wind ensemble: Cadet Sergeant Cavan Plant (Chivenor), Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, presenting the award, Cadet Flight Sergeant Tim Salvidge (City of Wells) and Cadet Sergeant Jenny Symes-Podic (Totnes).

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MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 109

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MENDIP TIMES

Come, join the band MENDIP Brass Band is preparing for one of the busiest times of the year as Christmas approaches.

The band, which evolved from the former Wells Community Band, has a busy schedule ahead of carol concerts and outdoor events.

Wells Community Band existed for many years under the musical directorship of its fundraising founder Ivor Lewis, together with huge support from his wife Doris. The band consisted mainly of young people plus a few adults.

As band membership began to decline Jim Perkins, a band member, began an active membership recruitment programme of mainly adult retired people from the Mendip area, many had no previous experience of banding or music. Jim devoted much time to these recruits with one-to-one instrumental tuition.

In 2009, Ivor decided to retire and passed the band leadership to Jim. That same year it was decided to rename the

Mendip Brass Band – new members are always welcome

band Mendip Brass Band to accurately reflect the area covered by band membership and performances. New players of all standards are welcome.

Band secretary Liz Marshall said: “We’ve had a busy summer taking our music to fetes, flower shows and bandstands all over the Mendip region

and are now gearing ourselves up for some Christmas concerts and braving the winter cold to play Christmas carols for seasonal shoppers.”

The band will next be performing at a concert in aid of the Poppy Appeal on Friday, November 7th at Chilcompton Church, starting at 7.30pm.

For more information, visit: www.mendipbrassband.org.uk or contact Liz on: 01749 679859

Local orchestra celebrates 40 years of music making

IN 1974, a group of local musicians decided to start an orchestra in Winscombe. Twelve players turned up on a Friday evening for the first rehearsal of what would become the Winscombe Orchestra, and later the West Mendip Orchestra.

Forty years on, the orchestra is thriving, with over 40 regular players performing four concerts a year.

Last year the orchestra appointed a

Dennis Simons

PAGE 110 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

new conductor, Dennis Simons, who recently moved back to the UK after a professional conducting career in North America.

Orchestra chair Nigel Derrett said: “We were incredibly lucky to get Dennis – he was looking for an orchestra just at the same time we were looking for a conductor.”

Under Dennis, the orchestra is aiming to raise its standard further, with an exciting and challenging programme this year, including major works by

Tchaikovsky, Elgar, Brahms, Hansen, Beethoven, Parry and Dvorak.

The next concert will be in the Friends’ Meeting House, Sidcot on November 14th, with pieces by Delibes, Elgar, Borodin and Tchaikovsky.

Despite its growth and success, the West Mendip Orchestra has maintained its local friendly character, and new players are welcomed. The orchestra is currently looking for more strings.

There is no audition, but first violins need to be about grade 7 standard.

Details: www.west-mendip-orchestra.org.uk

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Stars of Stourhead

THE Brue Boys, one of Mendip's premier choirs for men, were one of the choirs performing this summer as part of Stourhead’s festival of the voice.

With a membership of over 50, The Brue Boys perform around eight concerts a year for charities around the Mendip area.

They are based in Baltonsborough and are always happy to welcome new members.

Details: www.brueboys.org.uk

Choir looking for recruits

A musical Christmas celebration

MUSIC

LYRICA and Sing Out Loud UK will be performing at Horsecastle Chapel, Yatton on Saturday December 6th at 7pm. This free concert of jazz and swing Christmas songs will also feature the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s “Messiah”.

The concerts by these two vocal ensembles are informal and light hearted and the audience always has a chance to join the choirs in songs. Musical director of both ensembles is Elizabeth Glen, a professional singer who has sung as a soloist and on radio in the UK and abroad, and who is featured soloist on the bestselling, gold disc award winning classical CD “Canticles of Ecstasy”.

Elizabeth will also be singing in the concert. A retiring collection will be taken in aid of orphanages for street children in Goa. Details: www.lyrica.co.uk, or 01934 832283.

Choir on tour THE Jenny Peplow Singers are going from strength to strength.

Initially known three years ago as Midsomer Voices they have grown from being a fun group into an award-winning choir.

Jenny, herself a solo artist and teacher said: “I didn't intend for us to go in this direction but the ladies have improved their singing skills and become quite ambitous over the past three years and I've just gone with the flow."

Next year they are going to Bodmin (St Petroc’s) to perform and to Clifton Cathedral, besides entering the Mid-Somerset Festival, where they won two awards in March.

Jenny is looking for eight more recruits and will be holding auditions in November.

Details: 01373 812093. Practice is every Wednesday night at St Johns Hall, Midsomer Norton. The fee is £6 per week or (£60 every 10 weeks).

FIFTY members of the Mendip Male Voice Choir, along with their wives/partners, travelled down to Ilfracombe for their annual choir tour.

The choir held a concert at St. Mary’s Church in Bideford before spending a day exploring the beautiful North Devon coastline.

The choir then performed in a joint concert with the Wadebridge Male Voice Choir and the Ilfracombe Male Voice Choir, who were celebrating their 30th anniversary.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 111

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MENDIP TIMES

A n i n d u l g e n t ‘ f re a k o f n a t u re ’ q u a l i f i e s for the Horse of the Year show ONE of our most successful local pony club show jumping trainers proved that she has the experience and class to take on the very best when qualifying this year for the Horse of the Year Show.

Gemma Hallett, aged 24, has had a very good year, despite the fact that a serious With CELIA injury has kept her out of the saddle for much GADD of the show jumping season.

In 2010 a bad fall left Gemma with a severely damaged leg and despite numerous procedures she still has to go back for further surgery at the end of October.

She has coached the Polden Hills Pony club this year to their best ever results and as their show jumping trainer saw them finish sixth at the Pony Club finals in Cheshire as well as qualifying for all the other disciplines as well for the first time.

Gemma also teaches the Quantock Pony club and the Devon and Somerset regularly and is a UKCC level 2 coach and working hard towards her level 3.

It was a chance conversation between her mother, equestrian artist Caroline Cook, and an enthusiastic horse owner, Sarah Franklin, that led Gemma to meeting, and then riding the hugely talented but tiny, Sparkling Indulgence (Steele).

When Gemma first saw Steele she thought that Sarah was overestimating what he was capable of as he had been out in the field for three years, was very hairy and resembled an overgrown pony but Gemma has been astounded as to the temperament and capability of this little machine.

More success for Chew Valley CHEW Valley School’s equestrian team have notched up more wins, following their successes earlier in the year.

On September 21st the students travelled down to Bicton, Devon to compete at the South West Schools oneday event. The 75cm team of Hannah Bishop (12), Izzy Twiggs (15) and Charlie Padfield (15) all finished on their dressage scores to win team first with a total of 100 penalties.

Individual success also came for Izzy who was placed first, whilst Charlie came 3rd and Hannah 5th out of a field of 25 in each section.

In the most challenging class, the 90cm, an impressive 25 competitors took part from 20 schools. With the majority of competitors on horses, Chew Valley School’s representative, Alicia Showering, did well to place 8th on her 14.2hh pony Freddie, whilst Charlotte Bishop on her pony Gaelic Prince came

PAGE 112 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

Sparkling Indulgence

Gemma and Steele went from British Novice competitions to the Horse of the Year show within just 18 months of competing, even including Gemma’s enforced time off due to her leg injury.

Gemma said: “He is awesome. The more you ask of him the better he gets.”

Gemma and Steele competed in the British Showjumping Silver League final at the Horse of the Year show which is based on regional points throughout the season. Steele was fifth in the series on points and Gemma’s other horse Wake Up finished second.

Steele went on to win the South West Direct Qualifer at Bicton and has also been placed at the Scope festival and the Blue Chip finals. Unfortunately he will now be sold as Gemma is having to take yet more time off with her leg and has decided to concentrate on her coaching rather than her own professional competing.

Sarah Franklin was a doubly proud owner at the HOYS as her other pony, Glenowen Calexico, which is based with Tara Byrtt who lives near Weston-super-Mare also competed in the Newcomers final with just one fence down.

10th individually. In the final class, the 1m, Izzy Twiggs riding her brother’s horse Budweiser was placed 5th out of 14 competitors.

On the back of these successes, the team headed to the National Senior Eventing Championships at Stonar School the following weekend. The team of Charlotte Bishop (16), Alicia Showering (17), Abi Wyatt (16) and Izzy Twiggs (15) competed in the 95cm under 18s section. Team tactics in the cross country stage resulted in the fastest clears of the competition.

These quick and clear performances from the team put Chew out in front, taking the team win. Abi also achieved individual 1st whilst in the 75cm class Charlie Padfield came 3rd individually.

The school has now retained a team 1st title from both events for two consecutive years.

Previously in the season Chew Valley

Bicton winners

won team and individual qualifications for county show jumping, jumping with style and dressage. This enabled them to represent the school at the National Championships across the three different disciplines from October 24th-26th, as Mendip Times went to press.

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RIDING

More local winners

SOME of our local riders enjoyed success at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show at the NEC in Birmingham, having battled their way through the qualifying rounds to get there.

One of the most watched events is the Prince Philip Cup Mounted Games.

This year Wylye qualified and it was their first time back since winning the cup in 2003 and their 19th appearance in all.

Team trainer Maria Gibson from Shepton Mallet is no stranger to this famous arena having been team trainer when they were there in 2001, 2002 and 2003.

The team members (pictured) were Matthew Limond from Writhlington, Lizzie Baker from Trudoxhill, Lydia Collingwood from Orchardleigh, Laura Sheppard from Trudoxhill, George Hobbs from Ditcheat and Alfie Gibson from East Compton.

After the very first session Wylye were in first place. After the evening session they were in fifth. Then with various judging decisions, not having the rub of the green, they completed the week in sixth.

It had been a great week for the team who had thoroughly enjoyed the show. Maria said: “We now start to build a new team as three members, due to age, won’t be in the team next year.”

(l to r) Lizzie Baker, George Hobbs, Matthew Limond, Lydia Collingwood, Alfie Gibson and Laura Sheppard

November 2014 show dates

Saturday 1st Unaffiliated show jumping at Stockland Lovell Manor Equestrian Centre, Fiddington Sunday 2nd Mini show jumping at Stockland Lovell Manor Equestrian Centre, Fiddington Wednesday 5th Higher unaffiliated show jumping at Badgworth Arena Affiliated dressage at Stockland Lovell Manor, Fiddington

Thursday 6th Unaffiliated winter dressage series at Leyland Court Farm, Bristol Saturday 8th Unaffiliated dressage at Stockland Lovell Manor, Fiddington Wednesday 12th Lower unaffiliated show jumping at Badgworth Arena Wednesday 19th Higher unaffiliated show jumping at Badgworth Arena

Philippa Horton with Goldsworth Little Miss Mophet

Philippa Horton from Frome, had a weekend to remember.

Philippa, aged 15, was riding Goldsworth Little Miss Mophet which was bought after last years show by her mother, when the pony had been placed third in his class. This year they went one better coming second in their class of 22 ponies.

Philippa qualified at Stithians Show in Cornwall during the summer. This is not the first time she has ridden at this most famous arena having ridden there since the age of six. On that occasion she won the Mini Show Pony of the Year Championship Final with Chaseford Charisma.

Philippa said: “To get to the championship final for the Children’s Riding Pony of the Year is a huge achievement and so exciting.”

She is a member of the Mendip Farmers’ Hunt Pony Club and took part in the area dressage competition.

Rosie Sage

Friday 21st Eve Poole grid work lesson at Urchinwood Manor, Congresbury Wednesday 26th Lower unaffiliated show jumping at Badgworth Arena Friday 28th Unaffiliated dressage at Urchinwood Manor, Congresbury

Ebborlands Riding Centre

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Tel: 01749 672550

# LESSONS: Beginners upwards. # LIVERY: Full, part, working or D.I.Y. Indoor and outdoor schools, c/c fences. # HACKING: Farm fields on southern slopes of Mendip Hills, nearby moor roads.

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MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 113

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MENDIP TIMES

Volunteers’ success

NORTON Radstock Swimming Club volunteers Hannah Angell, Katie Ball, Maisie Gudmunsen, Millie Long and Kate Rowell received certificates at the ASA’s South West conference in Taunton, after completing the Somerset Young Volunteer programme, which is designed to improve their aquatic knowledge.

Somerset Young Volunteer graduate Sam Church was selected to join the Somerset Young Coaches Academy. The programme was developed to encourage 16 to 18 years to continue their aquatic learning within a Somerset ASA affiliated club. Sam received a bursary towards an ASA Level 1 course, attended coaching development sessions and has continued volunteering at Norton Radstock.

Purnells pipped

by Portishead

PURNELL Bowls Ladies are celebrating after finishing runnersup in the prestigious County Fear Cup final against Portishead Royal British Legion, although they lost by 15 shots.

Purnells’ barmy army of supporters had to go through an up and down morning of emotions – after 15 ends there was only five shots between the teams, but Portishead just gained the upper hand as the game went into the final stages.

A spokesman said: “The whole Purnell Bowls Club is very proud of what the ladies have achieved this year. To get to the final of the top county cup with their limited resources is quite remarkable with all the ladies playing their part.”

The club is now in indoor mode with leagues operating mornings and afternoons, but there are slots available for more members to give playing in the warm during the long winter months a try.

Details: Don 01761 471019 to book a time or some expert coaching.

Racing ahead

Midnight croquet

ROGER Orgee, from Langford, finished runner-up in his Formula Ford in this year’s championship at Castle Combe, before going on to win the end-of-season Formula Ford carnival.

Weston College sponsored his car this year after launching a new course in MotorSport Engineering at its new North Somerset Enterprise and Technology College.

Roger’s father was himself a former champion driver.

PAGE 114 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

CAMERTON and Peasedown Croquet players staged a 24-hour marathon, raising £400 for club funds.

Starting at 1pm the evening sun was replaced by floodlights and by the next day 29 doubles matches had been played with over 30 members taking part.

The hero of the day was Peasedown St John resident Patrick Knight. Not only did he come up with the idea and make all the arrangements, he played in every game – that’s 24 hours at a stretch – and he won 70% of his matches.

Camerton and Peasedown Croquet Club plays throughout the year, offers free introduictory courses, and welcomes new members.

Details: Mo Boys 01225 708540 or Ros Key Pugh 01225 427525.

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Moody Cows set up “home” in Cary

Be inspired

SPORT

Celebrations in typical Moody style as the trophy cabinet is unveiled

ENGLAND women’s rugby world cup winner Marlie Packer was the guest of honour when the invitational touring side the Moody Cows celebrated their tenth anniversary at Castle Cary Rugby Club.

The Barbarians-style Moodys, who include England and Welsh internationals as well as a social team, formally opened a “Moody Cows” trophy section and dedicated area at the club as part of the celebrations.

Marlie, who grew up in Yeovil and played for Ivel Barbarians, was joined by more than 30 current and past Moody Cow players at the event. Marlie currently plays for Wasps and was among the England internationals to be rewarded with a central contract from the RFU after the team’s success in France. Marlie, however, has no intention of giving up the day job – as a plumber in London.

The close connection between the Moodys and Castle Cary came through Kay Booker. Kay was a Cary club member and played at the highest level in the women’s game but sadly died from cancer.

Kay is remembered each year by the Cary Kays 7s charity competition.

Marlie said: “It is an honour to be here for such a special event. I am so pleased that we are able to continue with the special link between Moody Cows and Cary and keep Kay in our thoughts.”

Moody Cows manager Lou Stewart said she was delighted with the offer from Castle Cary to give the team a “spiritual home”. Lou said: “It is fantastic to have the support and welcome we get from Castle Cary. We are so proud to be here and we all love coming to the west country.”

Club president Chris Watts added: “We love having the Moodys in Somerset; they are a great bunch of people, great players and it is a thrill to have their base here in Cary.”

World cup winner Marlie Packer with some of the Moodys’ ten years’ worth of mementoes

Marlie, who plays at flanker, in action during the world cup

By Mark Adler

Marlie with the world cup outside Number 10 Downing Street when the squad met the Prime Minister David Cameron

ON the back of England women’s world cup success, the Rugby Football Union has launched a strategy to take the game to 100,000 women and young girls across England.

And there’ll be a chance to get up close to the World Cup trophy when it visits the South West in December and January as part of the campaign which also coincides with the countdown to the men’s world cup next year.

The strategy aims to grow the game to see 25,000 women and girls taking part in contact rugby by 2017, whilst expanding the reach of the game to attract more coaches, volunteers, officials, social players and fans. The RFU says it focuses on the needs of the grassroots game, covering four main areas – ensuring a warm and welcoming club environment, providing local options for every need, ensuring that the player pathway is clear and connected, and ensuring that rugby is a real option for females when considering their sporting and fitness options.

G Visit: www.englandrugby.com/womenandgi rls to find a local women’s club and discover more details on how to get involved in the nationwide tour.

MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 115

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MENDIP TIMES

Season starts in style

WINCANTON Racecourse’s first meeting of the 2014/15 season attracted a large crowd in unseasonally warm weather.

The day began with a parade by some of the finest racehorses from the area, including Silviniaco Conti – one of champion trainer Paul Nicholls’s tips for the year – and Colin Tizzard’s Cue Card.

The six-race card was the first of 17 fixtures due to be held at Wincanton this season.

The first race of the new season

Silviniaco Conti in the parade ring

New team in Shipham

FOOTBALL In Shipham has been moving at pace over the last month or so.

Firstly, a new senior team, Shipham Athletic, has been established for the 2014/15 season. The team is being managed by local resident Paul Drake and features a number of players with ties to the village.

For a number of years Shipham residents have had to play for other village teams and, says club chairman Steve Dodd: “Since the club was reestablished with a veterans’ side in 2006, it has been our longer term aim to develop both youth and senior football in the village.

“The youth fun sessions that run on Wednesday evenings continue to go from strength to strength and now the introduction of the Athletic side is a huge boost to the club.”

Shipham Athletic will play its home matches at Shipham’s (in)famous sloping pitch and will compete in Weston-superMare and District League Division 5.

Children from Wincanton primary school spent the day at the races as part of the Racing to School educational campaign

Shipham Veterans on tour in Guernsey

Paul Drake said: "Although we are a newly formed team, we've had plenty of interest from players to join and have had approximately 20 players at each training session. We're welcoming new faces each week and looking forward to a successful season.”

The veterans have also enjoyed a good start to the season. In early September the team set off to Guernsey for a tour match against Guernsey Rangers FC. It was the club’s inaugural tour and, given its success, looks like it will become a regular feature.

Following that, the veterans played their first match of the season against Dads Army Football Team (DAFT) from

Cheddar on the first team pitch at Bowdens Park. Taking advantage of playing on a flat pitch for once, Shipham romped away in the second half to record an 8-2 victory – their best victory in many a year.

Finally, the club has also received offfield support from The Swan in Rowberrow. Drake adds: "We're really grateful to Sophie and the staff at The Swan who will kindly sponsor our kit for the new season. It's great to see that they're supportive of the club and we'll certainly be heading back there for a drink after each home match."

The club is always welcoming new players, young and old.

Details: www.pitchero.com/clubs/shiphamfootballclub.

Paul Drake, Manager of Shipham Athletic FC with Sophie Willing from The Swan, Rowberrow with the 2014/15 kit.

Shipham Veterans heading off on tour and with Guernsey Rangers FAC.

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SPORT

Serious and fun – the festival run

MORE than 400 runners of all ages and abilities tackled three different courses around the home of the Glastonbury Festival to raise money for charity.

A two kilometre run aimed mainly at under-12s, a 5km run and a challenging 10km course took in the sights of Worthy Farm at Pilton, including the pyramid stage, stone circle and tithe barn. The run – now in its second year – was held to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West but entrants were encouraged to fundraise for their own causes as well. A team of 60 volunteers managed the event.

Christopher Bond, from the organising committee, said: “We also appreciate our many local business and individual sponsor partners who contributed over £2,000 towards our costs for the chip timing, online entry system, racing numbers etc. They have enabled us to pass most of the entry money direct to CHSW – a great amount of well over

Affinity Wellbeing, from Frome

£4,000 – much more than last year.”

Julie Patterson, fundraiser for the charity, said: “Thank you to all involved in helping to make The Festival Run

Team Laura chose an unusual way to warm up – with champagne.

They took part in memory of Laura, the daughter of Juliet Lord.

Laura was looked after by CHSW at their centre in Devon. The team is pictured with Juliet’s other daughter, Martha, who suffers from a disability

Gemma Phillips was the first girl home in the 2km race

possible; Michael Eavis, sponsors, runners and the dedicated Committee who together have helped to raise this fabulous amount of money.”

The mass start for the 5km and 10km runs

Relief as two runners cross the finish line

Joseph Tuffin, from Nottinghamshire (left), the overall winner of the 5km race, is congratulated by Dylan Dukes, from Pilton, who finished second MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014 • PAGE 117

MORE home A tw took in tithe b Hospi A team Chri local b costs f pass m more t Julie make Comm

Pic cap

#1: Aff #2: Tea of Lau centre disabil #3: So #4: Tea aged s #5: Th #6: Ru #7: Tea #8: Jos congra #9: To Christ #10: R #11: G

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MENDIP TIMES NOVEMBER AT THE CHEESE & GRAIN Saturday 1st: 8pm MISTY IN ROOTS £16.50 adv/£19 door Friday 7th: 8pm CARA DILLON £18 adv/£20 door Saturday 8th: FROME FARMERS MARKET 9am-1pm Saturday 8th: 8pm JOHN MAYALL £25 adv Friday 14th: 8pm FISHERMANS FRIENDS £21.50 adv Sunday 16th: 7pm FROME SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA £10 Wednesday 19th: 6:30pm-10pm EVENING OF INDULGENCE £8 Friday 21st: 8pm (Green Room) WINTER MOUNTAIN £8 adv/£10 door Saturday 22nd: 8pm FROM THE JAM £21 adv Wednesday 26th: 8pm A CELEBRATION OF THE MUSIC OF WALTER TROUT £15 adv/£18 door Friday 28th: 8pm LIVEWIRE – THE AC/DC SHOW £15.50 ADV Sunday 23rd: LIPSMACKING CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL 10am- 4pm £2 Saturday 29th: 8pm JOAN ARMATRADING SOLD OUT

Market Yard, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BE To Book call 01373 455 420 www.cheeseandgrain.com (Monday – Saturday: 9am–8pm Sundays: event days only)

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Cheese & Grain in November

THE Cheese & Grain in Frome has a very busy November in store with some great names in folk, blues and rock appearing there – some shows are almost sold out already!

Kicking off the month is one of the most powerful live reggae acts around today, Misty In Roots, with their uncompromising lyrical vibrations and powerful lyrics. They’ll be making their venue debut on Saturday, November 1st.

Frome based Irish folk star Cara Dillon brings her stunning interpretations of traditional Irish standards on Friday, November 7th and the following night sees blues legend John Mayall, who will be playing a rare non-theatre show.

Other headliners include the award-winning Cornish folk group Fishermans Friends – with their incredibly rousing and joyful set of shanties and folk songs.

Frome Symphony brings a huge programme with Tchaikovsky’s Scene and Waltz to Swan Lake, Mozarts Horn Corncerto No.3 and Stravinsky’s mighty The Rite of Spring and the month ends on a high on Saturday, November 29th, when singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading will be playing as part of her farewell tour. Tickets are sold out. The Cheese & Grain is a not-for-profit social enterprise and prides itself on being at the heart of the community. It boasts a thriving café, markets – including the award-winning Frome Farmers Market and has a growing reputation for providing a hub for community education. Parts of its upstairs suite of offices are used for training events and there is also a hot desk facility for small businesses.

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Join the Friendship Force

Turkish visitors on a tour of Cheddar Gorge

FRIENDSHIP Force Somerset is part of Friendship Force International which provides opportunities to explore new countries and cultures from the inside by bringing people together at the personal level.

Through home hospitality, local hosts welcome international visitors into their culture, sharing with them meals, conversation and the best sights and experiences of their region Somerset has hosted visitors from Turkey and Brazil this year, showing them our beautiful county from Dunster to Bath, canals to coast. We have enjoyed sharing our hospitality and making new friends.

The Friendship Force was founded by Wayne Smith and introduced in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter at a White House gathering of state governors. President Carter asked the governors to return to their states and identify a volunteer leader who would serve as State Director for the Friendship Force in their state.

As a result of its initiatives between the United States and the Soviet Union, the Friendship Force was nominated in 1992 for The Nobel Peace Prize.

The Friendship Force has brought together millions of people. Today we are active

in 60 countries, promoting friendship and goodwill through an extensive programme of home hosting or exchanges. In 2012, there were 333 exchanges conducted with 5,443 ambassadors travelling.

Thousands of families served as hosts.

G If you are interested in finding out more about Friendship Force Somerset contact jo.webb@mbzonline.net.

Come and meet us at BEAH in Wells on Wednesday, November 26th from 11am1pm to find out about our next trip to Estonia in May 2015 or our incoming visitors from Oklahoma in September. For more information visit: http://friendshipforce.org/ind ex.php/who_we_are Jo Webb, president Friendship Force Somerset

WHAT’S ON

Avon Valley expands AVON Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, at Keynsham, has revealed a new fox enclosure and mascot, Felix the Fox, officially unveiled by the chairman of B&NES council, Martin Veal.

They are part of brand new developments following the take-over by new management, which will see full opening hours throughout the winter months and a 50% cut in entry prices from November 2nd until the end of March.

It’s also staging Bristol and Bath’s first ever large Scream Halloween event, Fear Avon Valley, and a Christmas Grotto and Market.

The fox enclosure is the first step of Avon Valley becoming a new British Wildlife Park. Managing director, Douglas Douglas, said: "This is our first step in

opening up the secret world of British wildlife that lives around us to the public.

“Next we are looking at otters, red squirrels and a game bird walk-through enclosure. Felix the Fox has been so popular and it is great to give our visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a tame fox.”

Learn more about this organisation and the opportunity to stay with families in Estonia and visit Latvia during May 2015.

Wednesday, 26th November, 2014.

BEAH Wells 11-1pm – Free event.

A chance to learn about travel from a local Somerset based group.

Just turn up!!

To find out about this event or Somerset Friendship Force (including the visit to Estonia & Riga) contact: jo.webb@mbzonline.net or ring 07549190744 to hear a recorded message.

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M e n d i p

Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. Commercial entries cost £25.

October 1st– November 30th Somerset Guy Fawkes Carnivals Exhibition, Radstock Museum. Model carts, carnival art, photographs, artefacts, videos: the complete history. Details: www.radstockmuseum.co.uk Wednesday October 29th Radstock Museum Children’s event: join in making carnival masks and face painting, 10.30am-1pm. Details: www.radstockmuseum.co.uk “Castles” Family Activity day at the Bishop’s Palace, Wells. Find out why people built castles and make your own castle to take home. Giant garden games – including bouncy castles… www.bishopspalace.org.uk Cheddar Vale Lions Club ‘Tea with the Lions’ at Nanny Ida’s, Wedmore, 3-5pm. Free team and coffee.

Thursday October 30th West Mendip Walkers mod 10.6 mile walk in the Quantocks. OS Map:Explorer 140 Grid:ST188366.

Start 10am. Park at Forest Office. www.mendipramblers.co.uk Friday October 31st – Sunday November 2nd Clevedon Art Club Members Exhibition from 10.30am at Clevedon Community School.

Paintings prints & cards for Christmas.

Friday October 31st Free Mendip Health Walks – Glastonbury Health Centre. 10am for 10.15. Easy, mostly level walks of about 1.5 miles around Glastonbury. Optional café stop at the end. Details: vicssullivan@hotmail.com All Sixties Night starring tribute band The Berries, with singer Holly Wadsworth, 8-1.30pm at Weston-s-Mare Football Club, Winterstoke Rd, BS24 9AA. Tickets £8 from 01934 423960 or 612618. In aid of Weston Hospicecare.

Saturday November 1st – Sunday November 2nd Cam Valley Arts Trail: free workshops, demonstrations & exhibitions for all ages. 11–5pm across 12 venues. Details: www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk Saturday November 1st Mendip Society walk – Two Rivers walk, a mod 6 miles from Henton. Meet 1.30pm, Village hall top car park, BA5 1PD. Contact 01749 672457.

Christmas Craft Fair, at Chilcompton Village Hall, BA3 4EX, 10am–4pm. In aid of St John’s Church, Chilcompton. Refreshments & parking.

Enquiries: Janet 01761 233301.

Dundry Sports & Social Club – Fireworks – Doors open 7pm, Display at 8pm. Members £5.

Non-members donation please. Kids FREE! Details Geoff: 07974765627.

An evening of music and dance in aid of the Poppy Appeal. Dundry Royal British Legion Club, 8pm Details: 0117 9781895.

George Haslam, jazz baritone sax and taragato, 7pm at Nunney Church – Tickets £5 on the door, raising money for the church roof. Wine & punch available.

PAGE 120 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2014

T i m e s

Shepton Mallet Firework Display – Bonfire lighting 7pm, fireworks 7.30, West Shepton Playing Fields. Adults £4, Children £2. Advance tickets:Shepton Mallet TIC. Monday November 3rd Warmer Improved Somerset Homes (WISH project) drop-in session at Glastonbury Health Centre. 10am-12.30 pm. Find out how to make your homes warmer, reduce energy bills and improve your health.

Tuesday November 4th Congresbury Over-60’s Club. ‘Clifton–The Handsomest Suburb in England’, illustrated talk by Mike Rowland, Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.30-4pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Angelica Kauffman: an artist in 18th century England. A talk by Leslie Primo for Mendip DFAS, 10.30 for 11am, Westex Suite, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet. Details: www.mendipdfas.org.uk Guests welcome, contact 01749 670652.

Thursday November 6th Wells Evening Society, Britain’s Pagan Heritage with Ronald Hutton, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm.

West Mendip Walkers: Burrington Combe & Velvet Bottom, a mod circular 9.4 miles. OS Explorer 141. Grid:ST476588. 10am from parking area at Burrington Combe.

Friday November 7th Wrington Friendship Club. ‘Teaching with Magic’, talk by Richard Ballinger, 2.30pm Wrington Memorial Hall, Silver Street. New members welcome. Details: Fred Parsons 01934 863562 Open Mic Night at Redhill Club, BS40 5SG, from 8pm. Hosted by Jerry Blythe. Free. All welcome, singers, musicians and spectators. Tel: 01934 862619.

Music Therapy in Palestine, a thought-provoking talk by music therapist Liz Coombes. South Parade Club, 7a South Parade, Frome BA11 1EJ, 7:30, £3.

Saturday November 8th Mendip Society walk – a mod 4-5 miles through East Harptree woods. Meet 1.30pm at Smithams Hill car park, BS40 6DA. Contact: Mary 01934 843789.

Congresbury Book Sale. 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvd’s, cd’s and talking books.

Brent Knoll Bazaar, Farmers’ Market & Café 10am-12noon, Brent Knoll Parish Hall. Free admission. Details: 01278 760308.

Christmas Craft Fayre & Soup Lunch, Ston Easton Village Hall, just off A37 nr bus shelter.

Lovely Christmas gifts & cakes. Proceeds to Ston Easton Church & Village Hall fund. Contact: Pat 01761 241428.

Trinity Singers, All Saints’ Church, Wrington.

7.30pm. Music by Rutter and Chilcott folk songs.

Tickets £10, include interval glass of wine.

Children free. Details: Susannah 01934 844106 or www.oxboffice.com Charity James Bond Dinner Dance, dress to impress Bond-style, 3-course dinner with music and casino. Cadbury Hotel, BS49 5AD. Tickets £28, to rebuild Backwell Judo Hall, from Gloria, 07870 598770.

Congresbury Singers, A Lark above the Trenches, St Andrew’s Church, 7.30pm. A tribute in music and poetry. Tickets £8 include refreshments, on the

W h a t ’ s

door or from Paul 01275 878740.

Quiz, Ditcheat Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tables of 6 at £10/table, in aid of the church. Bar available.

Details: 01749 860337.

The Avon Guild of Spinners, Weavers & Dyers Christmas Market, 11am-3pm, Long Ashton Community Centre, Keedwell Hill, BS41 9DP. Beautiful handmade items, refreshments. Details: www.avonguild.org.uk Tuesday November 11th Remembrance Day. 11am. A short service will be held outside the War Memorial Hall, Congresbury.

Coffee and tea available inside the Hall afterwards.

The History of the Somerset Coalfield, a talk by Shane Gould for the Mendip Society, 2.30pm at Wells Museum, Cathedral Green, BA5 2UE. “Life since 2012”, RWA member Derek Balmer at Clevedon Art Club meeting, 7.30pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Castle Rd, Walton, Clevedon BS21 7BX. Details: www.clevedonartclub.co.uk Thursday November 13th West Mendip Walkers: circular walk of 5-6 miles from Wells to Croscombe. OS Explorer 141.

Grid:ST555458. 12.30pm. Park on Torhill Lane behind Bishop’s Palace, Wells.

Clarks of Street – The History of the Family and the Firm – a talk for the Friends of Weston-s-Mare Museum, 7. 30pm at the museum, Burlington St. Friday November 14th West Mendip Orchestra celebrate their 40th year with a concert at the Friends’ Meeting House, Sidcot, with pieces by Delibes, Elgar, Borodin and Tchaikovsky. Details: www.west-mendiporchestra.org.uk Ham Wall Reserve – a volunteer’s story. A talk by Bob Buck, an RSPB volunteer on the Somerset Levels for 17 years. 11am, Cadbury Garden Centre, Congresbury, BS49 5AA. £3 donation requested.

Saturday November 15th Mendip Society walk around Winscombe. A moderate 5 miles. Meet 1.30pm, car park behind Woodborough Inn, BS25 1HD. Contact John, 01934 842868.

Fairtrade Fair, Shipham Village Hall, 10am3.30pm. Fashion Show at 11am. Stalls include Afghan textiles, Traidcraft, Palestinian crafts and more. Refreshments. Contact Lynda 01934 750533.

Bleadon Village Market 9-12.30 at the village halls Bleadon, BS24 0PG. Over 30 stalls with crafts, collectables, local produce etc.

Refreshments. www.bleadon.org.uk/market Craft Fair, Camerton Hall BA2 0NL 10am–1pm In aid of Children’s Hospice SW.Varied crafts, cakes & refreshments.

Live Band night with Backyard – funk, soul, disco & Motown at Shipham Village Hall. Tickets £10 from 01934 842306. Supporting Weston Hospicecare.

Monday November 17th Rare Plants in Somerset –a talk by local botanist Helena Crouch for Timsbury Nats, 7.30pm at the Conygre Hall. Entry £3.

A Focus on Nature, a presentation by Nick Upton for the Hawk & Owl Trust. 7.45pm, the Star Inn, Tickenham BS21 6SE. Members £2.50, nonmembers £3.50, U-18 free. Details: Carrie 01275 462908.

O n

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f o r

Tuesday November 18th Congresbury Over-60’s Club. Songs from the Rainbow Choir, Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.30-4pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Wednesday November 19th UKIP Public Meeting: a public meeting to which all are welcome, featuring Agriculture spokesman: Stuart Agnew MEP and Wells PPC: Jeff Bolter.

Non-members very welcome. Town Hall, Market Place, Wells. 7pm.

Friday November 21st Ploughman's and Quiz Night, Stratton on the Fosse Village Hall, 7.30pm in aid of the Hall.

Phone 01761 233651 to book a table. £5 pp.

Saturday November 22nd Mendip Society Walk – a moderate, possibly muddy 4 miles around Stockhill & Priddy mineries. Meet 1.30pm at Stockhill woods car park, off the Old Bristol Rd, nr BA5 3AR. Contact Peter 01761 221995.

Christmas Fayre organised by local branch of Parkinson’s UK, 10am-1pm at St Francis’ Church Hall, Ash Hayes Rd, Nailsea. Free entry & parking. Craft stalls, antiques, party wear, Christmas cards & gifts.

The Electric Lobsters – folk/rock barn dance at St Andrews Church House, Cheddar, 7.30pm.

Tickets £10, include ploughman’s, from 01934 744442 or 744172. Licensed bar.

Congresbury Book Sale. 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvd’s, cd’s and talking books.

Weston-s-Mare Moose International Lodge 55 invite all to join them in a Christmas Tea Party with the U3A Glee Club Singers, 2-4pm at Bleadon Coronation Hall. Tickets £5 from 07768 770602 or 07973 784635. Profits to Weston Notable Club.

Sunday November 23rd Redhill Village Christmas Fair. 12- 4pm. Many stalls. Bar & refreshments include mince pies and mulled wine. Church Road, BS40 5SG. Stalls still available – call Hazel, 01275 474973.

Wednesday, November 26th Huish & Langport Cricket Club’s Christmas Prize Bingo night. Langport Arms, Langport, 7pm for 7.30pm start.

Thursday November 27th West Mendip Walkers: a circular walk of 6 miles to Theale. OS Explorer 141. Grid: ST482452. Start 12.30pm. from The Batch Bleadney. Park at Lane End Farm BA5 1PG. Chew Valley Wildlife Group: Somerset’s Butterflies & Day Flying Moths, a talk by Les Cloutman, Chew Magna Millennium Hall, 7.45pm.

Visitors £2.50.

Friday November 28th – Saturday November 29th Brent Knoll’s got Talent? – BAD (Brent Amateur Dramatics) at 7.30pm at the parish hall. Ticket £8 (children £4) from village shop or 01278 760308.

In aid of hall funds.

Friday, November 28th Guitarist Richard Durrant in concert at Holy Trinity Church, Chantry, Frome, 7.30pm. Adults £12, U-12’s £6, from local shops, www.chantryandwhatley.webs.com or viviennepay@gmail.com “Twinheads” – the annual fun quiz night of Midsomer Norton & District Twinning Association

N o v e m b e r

at Welton Rovers Club, North Rd, 7.30pm. Teams of four. £5pp incl supper. All welcome. Details: Jeni, 01761 412130 Saturday, November 29th Mendip Society walk – a mod 5 miles with 10 stiles around Brimscombe Hill. Meet 1.30pm at Chapel Allerton church, BS26 2PQ. Contact, Richard 01275 852786.

Christmas Market, Cranmore Village Hall, 10am onwards, craft stalls, refreshments, games, raffle.

All proceeds to Eady’s Journey – details on Facebook or email eadysjourney@hotmail.com Christmas Fayre at The Riverside, Cheddar.

10am-12 noon. Lots of Christmas gifts, cakes etc.

In aid of church funds.

St Andrew's Blagdon Christmas Fair, 10am12noon, Blagdon Village Club. £1 includes coffee and mince pie. Come and meet Father Christmas.

Cheddar Male Choir joint Concert with Mendip Male Choir, Traditional & modern popular songs, St. Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, BA5 2AW. Tickets £8 from choir members or on the door – 7 for 7:30pm.

Chew Valley Choral Society – concert includes Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols, at St Andrew’s Church, Chew Magna at 7.30pm.

Ticket £10 (students £5) from members, 01275 333014 or on the door.

Dance, organised by the Friends of Berrow Village Hall. ‘60s, ‘70s & ‘80s music from Boogie Avenue. 7.30pm–late. Tickets £5 from Gil, 01278 792401.

Redhill Village Club Quiz Night – 8pm. Teams of 6 max or individuals. £1 pp & the winning team takes the prize money! Bar & refreshments.

Church Road, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Sunday November 30th Christmas Craft Fair, 10am-1pm, Stratton on the Fosse Village Hall in aid of Dorothy House and SANDS. 17 stalls, Amazing Raffle & refreshments. Details: 01761 233651.

Syrinx Cafe Concert, wind & piano ensemble, music by JS Bach, Handel, Loeillet and others at Henton Village Hall, on B3139 Nr Wells. Tickets £15 from 01749 670303 or 07595 671116 include a cheese & wine supper.

Tuesday December 2nd The Bayeux Tapestry: The World’s Oldest Comic Strip. A talk by Eveline Eaton for Mendip DFAS, 10.30 for 11am, Westex Suite, Bath & West Show Ground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN. Details: www.mdfas.org.uk Guests welcome – contact 01749 670652.

Winscombe Christmas Shopping – see page 40.

Thursday December 4th West Mendip Walkers: a mod circular walk of 10.6 miles in the Blackdown Hills. OS Explorer 128. Grid:ST183172. Start 10am from car park at Forches Corner.

The Friends of Weston-s-Mare museum Christmas Evening – Quizzes, nibbles and punch from 7pm followed at 8pm by ‘A Christmas Evening with Charles Dickens’ by the Travelling Light Magic Lantern Company. Weston Museum, Burlington St. Friday December 5th Open Mic Night at Redhill Club, BS40 5SG, from 8pm. Hosted by Jerry Blythe. Free. All welcome, singers, musicians and spectators. Tel: 01934 862619.

WHAT’S ON

2 0 1 4

Cheddar Festive Night – see page 56.

Saturday December 6th Mendip Society walk – 5 miles around Wrington.

Meet 1.30pm outside The Golden Lion, BS40 5LA. Contact, John 01934 842868.

Bleadon Village Christmas Market 9-12.30 at the village halls Bleadon, BS24 0PG. Over 30 stalls with crafts, collectables, local produce etc.Refreshments. www.bleadon.org.uk/market The Oakfield Choir singing works Purcell and Mozart at Christ Church, Frome, 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from Hunting Raven bookshop or on the door.Details: www.Gerontius.net Graffiti Classics: strings, singers & dance make classical music wickedly funny and exhilarating.

7.30pm Churchill Academy Hall: BS25 5QN. Tickets £14.50 (£10.50; U- 18's £4.00) from 01934 852919 info@churchillmusic.org.uk or at the door.

Fun singing event at The Sound Centre, Tytherington Nr Frome. 2pm-4pm -please arrive by 1.50pm. All welcome but children but must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential: contact@soundfoundation.co.uk Enquiries: Richard, 07867 940911.

Sunday December 7th Wells Rotary Reindeer Parade, Wells Market Place, featuring real reindeer, bands, choirs, pony and trap rides and numerous stalls. Details: www.wellsrotaryclub.org Saturday November 8th Brent Knoll Bazaar, Farmers’ Market & Café,10am-12noon, Brent Knoll Parish Hall. Free admission. Details 01278 760 308 Thursday December 11th West Mendip Walkers: a mod circular walk of 56 miles from Wells to Wookey Hole and Ebbor Gorge. OS Explorer 141. Grid:ST544464. Start 12.30pm. Park: Ash Lane close to Blue School.

Chew Magna Christmas Street Party – see page 78.

Friday December 12th Phoenix Singers Concert. 7.30pm Stoke St. Michael Church. BA3 5JS. Tickets £8 inc. glass of wine and canapes, from 01749 840660 or 01749 840475 or at the door.

Saturday December 13th Mendip Society walk – Meet 1.30pm, Shipham Village Hall, BS25 1SG. A mod 5 miles on the hills around Shipham. Contact: Mary 01934 843789.

ANSWERS TO THE MENDIP MINDBENDER

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MENDIP TIMES

Hot foot it to Kilver Court

NOVEMBER will see an exciting series of all-new designer brands arriving at Kilver Court Designer Village in Shepton Mallet.

Choose from classic menswear, stylish womenswear, luxurious cashmere, home interiors and skincare from more than 10 new labels in time for Christmas.

Kilver Court will launch the first outlet for the much-loved French Sole footwear brand. Purveyors of superb quality and design, French Sole’s beautiful, award winning ballet flats and gorgeous sandals and boots are now the shoes of choice for the world’s most stylish and glamorous women. Visitors to their

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

COMING UP:

Starts Friday 31st October

Frankenstein (15) National Theatre 7pm Fri The Best of Me (12A)

Starts Friday 7th November Serena (12A)

The Judge (15)

Tuesday 11th November

Starts Friday 14th November Tuesday 18th November

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (12A) 3D/2D

Joyeux Noel (12A) part of our WWI season 7.30pm The Nativity 3 (U) The Imitation Game (tbc) Mr Turner (12A) The Vatican Museums (U) 3D 6pm & 2D 8pm

G Book in person G Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk G Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

French Sole is coming to Kilver Court in time for Christmas

WHAT WHAT ’S O’NS ON

exclusive outlet store will discver an array of styles and colours with up to 60% off and, with prices starting from £20, will be sure to find the perfect pair.

Meanwhile, Garden Trading will be opening in The Great House with a beautiful collection of home and garden goodies. This is their first ever UK store with an opportunity to purchase their designs alongside some “last chance to buy” items with up to 25% off.

Kilver Court’s Grand Sale Weekend (Friday, November 21st – Sunday, November 23rd) will offer up to 80% off new brands REN Skincare, YMC, Hardy Amies and Pringle of Scotland. Now with more than 40 designer brands across the site including Jack Wills, Mulberry, Paul Smith, L.K.Bennett and Toast, all offering unmissable savings, consider Christmas wrapped up!

Showcase for local artists

JENNIFER Davidson’s childhood ambition was to be a fashion designer, which eventually lead her to the Paris catwalks, producing sketches for London fashion designers.

She was then tempted into the world of international interior design producing sumptuous and elaborate curtains, murals and using stunning paint effects as was all the rage at that time (taught by Kevin McCloud of

Grand Designs fame).

In the 1990s Jennifer graduated from UWE with an Honours Degree in Fine Art. She is now a member of Bath Society of Artists and Clifton and Clevedon Art Clubs. She has exhibited widely and her paintings are in many private collections all over the world.

Jennifer said: “All my experiences have influenced my present work. I tend to look to far horizons rather than that which is close at hand. My landscape paintings reflect my fascination with pattern, rhythmic interlocking shapes, rich colour and often have pathways snaking away into the far distance.”

She is one of the artists taking part in the Made in Wrington Christmas Art Fest from November 21st-23rd. The voluntary group was formed in 2012 to promote art and artists in the area.

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