Issue 9 - Volume 15 - Mendip Times

Mendip Times

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VOLUME 15 ISSUE 9

FREE

Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

FEBRUARY 2020

IN THIS ISSUE: BUSINESS • EDUCATION • WEDDINGS • WASSAIL • FOOD & DRINK • CHARITIES • SPORT

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

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

SNOWDROPS and wassails herald the end of winter and we’ve plenty of news of both this month as well as a preview of the area’s first big spring event, the West of England Game Fair, with the chance to win tickets.

Did you know there are 13,000 varieties of narcissus or that the word tulip comes from the old Persian for turban? Our gardening expert, Mary Payne, has the details, together with a guide to what to plant.

Sue Gearing’s walk takes us to Rackley, a vanished port under Crook Peak, while our cyclist Edmund Lodite climbs the hill where King Alfred is said to have mustered the Saxons to defeat the Danes.

Our area is rich in history, as the discovery of a Roman burial site in Somerton shows. It’s also beautifully eccentric – we have reports on barrow racing, body art and tiddlywinks!

We also have the biggest business section we have ever published, as well as features on weddings and education, plus our busiest charities section since the magazine first appeared nearly 15 years ago. We are very happy to give free space to charities and community events.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, June MacFarlane has a guide to seriously seductive sandwiches. With all of our regular contributors and features, welcome to another hearty helping of Mendip life.

March 2020 deadline: Friday, 14th February 2020.

Published: Tuesday, 25th February 2020.

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

01761 463888

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

Front cover: Victorian Fayre in Shepton Mallet. Photo by Mark Adler, see page 80.

Pipe dreams – church project almost complete

5

39

Barrowloads of fun – Binegar’s charity race

91

48

Oh, apple tree – leading the abbey Wassail

Counter intelligence – the brains behind tiddlywinks Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Nick Green .....................10 Internet and Crossword ..............12 Food & Drink ...............................16 Business.........................................24 Arts & Antiques ...........................34 Charities........................................38 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......49 Walking Sue Gearing ....................50 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........52

Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......54 Health Dr Phil Hammond .............60 Community ...................................66 Caving Phil Hendy ........................74 Property ........................................76 Homes and Interiors ....................82 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE.....86 Music & Theatre ..........................87 Sport ..............................................88 What’s On.....................................92 MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 3

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MENDIP TIMES

Victory for library campaigners SHEPTON Mallet library is poised to remain in its town centre location and be developed as a community hub under the management of a new community interest company.

Somerset County Council expects to enter into a new lease on the current site and continue to work with the local Library Friends Group, Shepton Mallet Town Council and others to create the hub as part of the regeneration of the Market Place.

The decision includes an agreement which would allow the building to be open outside of library opening hours to help develop its community role, and to accept contributions totalling £23,000 for each of the next five years from the town council and Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis. The decision is subject to a successful outcome to current lease negotiations with the landlord.

As part of its countywide redesign of the library service, the council had proposed moving the library to be part of the Shape Mendip Hub, due to the costs of its current location and a desire to extend opening hours.

The council says that, having listened to local feedback, officers worked with local partners to develop a sustainable option to remain in the Market Place while achieving extended opening hours and – bolstered by generous additional funding – at more or less the same cost.

The newly constituted 7 Starlings Community Interest Company will be leading the work to develop the community hub aspect of the library. Lesley Rowan from the CIC said: “The Friends of Shepton Mallet Library, our community, and our local partners are absolutely delighted that the library will remain in the centre of the town.

“With the help of SCC, our town and parish councils and benefactor Michael Eavis, we will be able to make full use of the extended opening hours and refurbished premises.

“This landmark decision will bring an improved library for

New beginnings at St John’s

AN open evening is to be held at the newly refurbished St John’s Church in Glastonbury to celebrate the completion of the work and to allow people to meet the consultants, contractors and major benefactors behind the 14-month long project.

The church is scheduled to reopen on February, February 23rd and the event – New Beginnings – will take place on Friday, March 6th with a short presentation and an outline of some of the events planned for the coming months and years.

Wine and cheese will be available; visitors presenting a National Lottery ticket purchased during February or March will be offered a free glass of wine or a soft drink to thank them for their help after the church received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant towards the work.

Larry Schenk, manager of the Securing the Future refurbishment project, said: “We are glad to be back and pleased to be able offer such a large and beautiful historic venue for concerts, shows, and public events.” l Work to restore the church organ is expected to be completed by the time of the open evening. Warren Marsh, who runs Clevedon Pipe Organ Services in Devon, stripped down the instrument – it has 1206 pipes and 27 speaking stops. Some of the components have been sent away for repairs before

NEWS

The Friends of Shepton Mallet Library celebrate the announcement that the facility is to remain in the town centre

Shepton Mallet and a much needed and flexible community space in the heart of our town. Through our new community organisation, 7 Starlings CIC, we look forward to exploring a wide range of opportunities with local people to build a vibrant and dynamic showpiece for Shepton Mallet and an inspiration for other communities in the county."

County councillor David Hall, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “It has taken a lot of hard work on all sides to get to this position and I’m delighted we have made it because we want Shepton library to be part of a thriving, modern library network.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped get us to this point and urge the local community to get behind not only the library, but also the community activities that we expect to see grow around it.”

Charlotte Starkie, Shepton Mallet Town Council clerk added: “Our contribution reflects our enthusiasm to retain the library in the town centre so that as many people as possible can benefit from it.

“This gives some stability for the next five years and we hope that the public will throw themselves into supporting the library, the community group and the various new and exciting activities and events that will be on offer.”

Fine tuning: Warren Marsh and his assistant Mandy Cutland with some of the pipes

rebuilding and retuning can take place.

The first pipe organ was installed in St John's by Benjamin Flight in 1817. The instrument was moved and rebuilt several times (by several organ builders) between 1817 to 1914. The majority of the pipework and the instrument’s present-day location was the result of a major rebuild by Cartwright & Sons of London in 1926 followed by a comprehensive rebuild and modernisation by Charles A. Smethurst of Manchester in 1972.

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 5

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MENDIP TIMES

Strawberry Line transformed

The path before the work in June

MeMBeRS of the Axbridge-Cheddar Cycle walkway (ACCw) are celebrating their upgrade of the Strawberry Line path between the two communities.

The charity raised £12,000 to pay for the work to remove vegetation, scrape away tons of mud and re-lay the path with a new hard wearing surface.

David Parkin of the ACCw said: “we’ve achieved the 2020 vision for the Axbridge-Cheddar Cycle walkway – to get the narrow section resurfaced

and free from muddy puddles.”

As the fundraising campaign took shape last year more contributions came in from personal online donations, local councils and even a local pub.

Malcolm Conyers of the ACCw said: “Many individuals chipped in through Justgiving online. Although nothing came from Sedgemoor’s small grants programme, Cheddar Parish Council and Axbridge Town Council gave generous support.

“An amazing octogenarian sponsored walk raised over £500, and the Cheddar walking group was glad to put money where their boots often tread. “what really cracked the match-funding campaign was the award of £5,000 from Somerset Community Foundation through the hPC community fund. And a very substantial donation from The Riverside Inn proprietor got us close enough to our target to start work before Christmas.” however David Parkin said the charity had used up much of its reserve funds which are needed to maintain and repair the rest of the pathway. he appealed to residents and regular users of the path to support their work on their Justgiving page at: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/axchedsafe And he also asked for businesses who wished to support this vital local cycle and walkway with sponsorship by contacting the treasurer Malcolm Conyers by email at m.conyers@btinternet.com

The path after the work in December

PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Schools tackle climate emergency

A New network of schools taking collective action to help tackle the climate emergency has been launched in Bath and North east Somerset and the council is calling on more schools to sign up.

The B&NeS Schools Climate emergency Network’s first meeting was attended by representatives from more than half of all of the schools in the district, including primary and secondary schools from both the state maintained and independent sector.

The network has been set up by members of Family Action on Climate emergency (FACe), Councillor Tom Davies, Bursar of Monkton Combe School and Jo Marsh of the Palladian Academy Trust in response to the council’s Climate emergency declaration in March.

The network has written a Schools Climate emergency Declaration template for schools who want to show their commitment to the issue by making their own declarations and a number of schools are already in the process of doing so.

The first meeting also discussed the council’s initial climate emergency priorities which are increasing renewable energy generation, a major shift to public transport, walking and cycling and making new and old buildings as energy efficient as possible.

There were also presentations from three projects that schools can take part in right now, that align with each of the priority areas including the energy Sparks energy monitoring programme, Mode Shift Stars school travel scheme, and Bath & west Community energy’s search for new solar roof sites.

Councillor Sarah warren, cabinet member for Climate emergency, said: “It’s brilliant to see schools proactively pushing for collective action in response to the climate emergency that we declared in March. “we applaud the creation of this network as we recognise the crucial role schools have to play in community leadership as well as education. I look forward to continuing to support the network and would strongly encourage other schools to join in and play their part in tackling the climate emergency.”

Bird girl honoured

Chew Valley School pupil, Mya-Rose Craig, aged 17, from Compton Martin, has become the youngest person ever to be awarded an honorary doctorate, even before she has taken her A-levels.

She was nominated by Dr Richard Pancost, head of earth sciences, at the University of Bristol. he said: “Mya-Rose is most deserving for this prestigious award, predominantly for her brilliant work under Black2Nature where she epitomises courage in the face of resistance as she challenges the environmental sector to tackle the lack of racial and ethnic diversity. “her enthusiasm as @BirdgirlUK has inspired so many people to take an interest in wildlife and enjoy the beauty of nature whilst protecting its fragility.”

She is the youngest person in the world to see half of the world’s bird species.

Details: http://www.birdgirluk.com

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Frome is the place to “bee”

ARTIST Lydia Needle is about to unveil the fourth in a series of works highlighting the plight of the British bee.

Fifty Bees: The Interconnectedness of all Things will be featured at Black Swan Arts in Frome in February.

Lydia, who lives at Kingsdon, near Somerton, has sculpted 50 British bees in wool and stitch and 50 other artists have One of Lydia’s bee creations created responses to each bee. So far, she has created 200 sculptures, but she is aiming to complete 275 – one for each of Britain’s bees.

She sculpts the beautiful needle-felt bees from wool, embroidery thread and vintage Kamibari gold and silk thread. The bees are housed inside a range of vintage containers, including old tins, match boxes and antique jewellery boxes. each tiny bee is paired with a companion piece created by another artist, maker, writer or musician. The work might be about the habitat of the bee, their lifecycle or behaviour, or the flowers on which they feed. The aim is to give a fuller illustration of the diversity of the British bee population, how endangered they are (many species are on the brink of extinction) and how pollinators are deeply interlinked with our own ecosystem.

The exhibition opens to the public on Saturday, February 8th and runs until Saturday, March 14th.

Climate change is a family matter

FROMe Town Council and Sustainable Frome are organising a free workshop on Thursday, February 6th to explore how people can talk to colleagues, family and friends about climate change.

Nikki Jones, an independent writer and researcher on energy, who will be leading the workshop said: “with just eight years of carbon budget left before we are more than likely to hit 1.5 degrees of warming, there are many urgent and sometimes painful questions that we need to ask each other. “what do you say to colleagues and friends who continue to fly long-distance? how do you deal with close family who ‘just don’t get’ the climate emergency? how should we speak to children on the subject to ensure they don’t suffer from climate angst and feel empowered to take action?”

The event is called Talking to Friends and Family in a Climate emergency and Making Personal Action More effective. Anna Francis, Frome Town Council’s resilience manager, said: “while talking to people can be difficult, the great thing is that taking action on climate change has huge benefits for health, wellbeing and the local economy. Cutting air pollution, increasing exercise and making homes easier to heat will have huge benefits for people in Frome.” l The free workshop takes place at 7pm at Frome Town hall.

Donations to Avon Needs Trees requested.

ENVIRONMENT

Climate resilience – a plan for the Somerset Levels

weDMORe and Langport will host the first public events in February for Adapting The Levels, a project working to empower those who live and work on the Somerset Levels to take action on climate change adaptation.

Somerset is on the UK’s frontline of climate change, with the county’s long coast and large areas of low-lying land facing increased risks from river flooding, drought and sea level rise. Adapting The Levels is talking with communities, farmers and landowners, businesses, local government and water management experts to develop a shared vision for a climate-resilient Somerset Levels.

Adapting The Levels is a partnership project being delivered by Somerset County Council, the Farming & wildlife Advisory Group South west and the Somerset wildlife Trust, with funding from Somerset Rivers Authority and the Interreg 2 Seas european Regional Development Fund. The project will run until 2022. Adapting The Levels also has funding opportunities for developing nature-based solutions to flooding and drought, enabling communities and farmers/landowners to take action on climate adaptation.

The wedmore drop-in takes place on Saturday, February 1st at wedmore Village hall and the Langport drop-in is on Saturday, February 29th at Ridgway hall. Both take place from 10am-2pm.

There will be information about climate projections and what this could mean for local people, and about managing water more naturally. Children are welcome and there will be fun interactive models to explore. Most importantly, there will be an opportunity for people to share their knowledge, ideas and experiences, all of which will go towards developing the shared vision. l Online surveys are giving Somerset residents the chance to comment on and help shape a Climate emergency Strategy for the county.

To complement the surveys, a series of drop-in events in each district will give people the opportunity to get involved and find out how the five councils in Somerset are working together on their approach to the climate emergency and how they aim to reduce carbon emissions by 2030.

The drop-in sessions take place on Saturdays on: • February 8th. Sedgemoor District Council. The Sedgemoor Room, Bridgwater house, King Square, Bridgwater, TA6 3AR. • February 15th. Mendip District Council. The Council Chamber, Mendip District Council Offices, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5BT. • February 22nd. South Somerset District Council. Vicarage Street Methodist Church, Vicarage Street, Yeovil, BA20 1JB. They are being run by the Somerset Climate Action Network on behalf of Somerset’s four district councils and the county council.

For details, visit: www.somerset.gov.uk/climateemergency

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 7

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MENDIP TIMES

Partnership seeks new leaders The Mendip hills AONB partnership are looking to appoint a new chair person, vice-chair and three representatives of the parish councils in North Somerset, Bath & North east Somerset and Somerset.

The partnership brings together organisations and interests and provides a strategic and co-ordinated lead to the protection and enhancement of the nationally designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

These appointments come at a crucial time with climate change and extinction emergencies being declared, changes to

ENVIRONMENT

our farm payment systems and the outcomes of the government’s recent Glover Review that could see significant changes to the AONB partnership and its role. either the chair or vice-chair role may be filled by a non-elected, independent individual who is not currently on the partnership. The other roles must be filled by a councillor from one of the funding bodies.

Jim hardcastle, manager of the Mendip hills AONB said: “we know people are rightly concerned about the future of the

countryside they love and want to help shape the future, so this is an amazing opportunity.

“It’s a voluntary two-year role that places you at the heart of environmental decision making for the Mendip hills.

The partnership is made up of the organisations that manage the AONB like the local authorities, the wildlife trusts, Natural england etc. “we’re looking for people with the right skills and experience backed up by a love for this nationally protected area.”

Details: mendiphillsaonb.org.uk call Jim Hardcastle 01761 462338 or email jim@mendiphillsaonb.org.uk

Hillfort needs more “respect”

New research has further highlighted the significance of worlebury hillfort, overlooking weston-super-Mare.

The Iron Age hillfort situated on worlebury hill is designated as a scheduled monument in recognition of its national importance. however, damage caused by vegetation and trees planted in the 1820s and, more recently, vandalism led to it being placed on historic england’s “heritage at Risk” register in 2016. The hillfort also shows signs of Romano-British activity. historic england’s Archaeological Survey and Investigation team has recently completed an analytical earthwork survey of the hillfort and its surrounding landscape. Mark Bowden, senior investigator at historic england, said: “The hillfort was declared a ‘heritage at Risk’ site because of concerns over its deteriorating condition through neglect and vandalism. This is despite the appearance of notices threatening large fines for damaging a scheduled monument.

“The more effective long-term solution to this problem must lie in removing the trees which are causing many of the problems, which would also open up the site, explaining and sharing the hillfort’s significance and value, and nurturing respect for it.”

The hillfort is managed by North Somerset Council who, with help from volunteers from the worlebury hillfort Group, weston Civic Society and weston Archaeological and Natural history Society, have been working to improve the hillfort.

In 2018 the council commissioned an independent archaeological condition survey of the hillfort, funded by a heritage Lottery Fund grant, to identify the specific threats and risks to the monument and recommend solutions to protect it in the long term.

Following this survey the council developed a management plan to safeguard the future of the hillfort by removing the principal threats caused by trees and vegetation and raising awareness of the importance of the site.

The results of the survey show in detail two linear earthworks or ditches, also referred to as “valla”, a Roman term for ditches.

They broadly run north-south across the ridge immediately to the east of the hillfort itself and consist of a rock-cut ditch and a bank on their western side

The plan was adopted by the council in April last year with the aim of uncovering the hillfort, helping to reveal its secrets lost for the past 200 years under extensive tree and vegetation growth.

For details, visit: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/hillfort

PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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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

Once again, our senior (as in greatly respected rather than old!) partner Bill Bartlett has been instrumental in organising the MidSomerset Agricultural Show Society wassail at North Wootton which took place on Wednesday, January 15th with all the usual fun and frolics in the orchard and indoors afterwards.

As we never tire of reminding readers of Mendip Times, anyone who does not have an up-to-date Will or Lasting Power of Attorney should take immediate steps to put that right and with that in mind you may wish to know that our Cheddar office will once again, be participating in the Weston Hospicecare “Make a Will Week” from Monday, February 3rd – Friday, February 7th. Don’t forget that our office is now in Bath Street next to the Post Office.

Under the scheme we agree to prepare a certain number of simple Wills in return for a donation equivalent to our fee to Weston Hospicecare to help with the excellent end-of-life and respite care that they provide to sick people. There is no better reason to stop putting it off.

Numbers are limited, so if you wish to participate please book your appointment well ahead.

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

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

Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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MENDIP TIMES

Creating the Mendip landscape

OUR landscape has been influenced by farming for hundreds of years. Consider the turn of the first millennium and the UK was mainly forest. As the population grew over the next thousand years the landscape changed from being mainly forest to pasture and areas that produced crops.

With NICK The Enclosure Act came in the 1770s and GREEN with that a patchwork of fields started to form. Fast forward to 2020 and that patchwork remains. The Mendips and surrounding areas are a great example. Travel

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

across the Somerset Levels and and as well as being a drainage system the dykes act as field boundaries.

At the other extreme, walk across the top of the Mendips and the whole area is criss-crossed with dry stone walls. Watch any dry stone waller repairing a wall and you realise how much physical effort goes into maintaining this special feature. But, consider the effort the original wall builders had to expend.

There were no diggers to excavate the stone. Every one was dug, lifted and carried. If you look at how many stones it takes to make just one metre of wall and times it by the miles of wall on Mendip you can see what a monumental task it was.

As well as dry stone walls we have some fantastic hedges in our area. Our hedges are almost unique. The Netherlands is virtually hedgeless. Canada seems to be just one bit prairie. The US has barbed wire fences and so it goes on. We have hedges of a multitude of shapes, sizes and species.

Whatever, their shape, size or type, they all need to be managed to remain stockproof. Through the winter you will see many farmers with tractors and a flair hedge trimmer attached. This is used to give the hedge a “haircut”. It might not be done every year but the hedge needs to be managed to maintain a stockproof boundary.

As well as hedge trimming you might see people “laying” a hedge. This is an old skill that very nearly died out in the mid-20th century but with the likes of the Wrington and Burrington hedging society teaching newcomers the traditional skills are being kept alive.

If you are interested in seeing the skills of the Wrington and Burrington hedge layers their annual match is being held at Barrow Gurney on March 14th courtesy of the Carnell family.

Hedging – a Mendip tradition

Nick Green is Farms Director for Alvis Bros Ltd based at Lye Cross Farm. He is responsible for the farming and estate business and is passionate about British food and farming. As well as the business, he is involved with a number of local and national farming charities.

St Katherines Farmhouse Downside Road, Lulsgate Bristol BS48 3DZ

Contact: 01275 472471 www.jwandtjpearce.co.uk

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PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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What’s the answer to the rise in rural crime?

CRIMINALS are targeting businesses and residential property throughout the rural communities and evidence suggests it’s getting worse.

Who are the targets?

Rural crime was deemed a small issue in the past, but now criminals have turned rural crime in to a thriving business. Organised gangs will target farms, looking to take tractors, loaders, quads and other farm machinery which are sold abroad or stripped for parts. Livestock have also been taken or butchered on site for the black-market meat trade, while the NFU report a considerable rise in sheep theft.

It’s not just farms at risk from organised crime, stable owners, workshops and even homes are just some areas criminals are targeting.

According to the NFU rural crime report 2019, the cost of rural crime in

2018 rose to nearly £50 million, which is a 12% increase on the previous year.

What is being done to combat this?

Warwickshire police officers attended

a training day focused around farm machinery and livestock, with the intention of providing awareness to spot stolen machinery and livestock.

In the South West police are using social media and relying on schemes

FARMING

like farm and horse watch. Alongside these strategies, technology such as data tagging and CCTV have become a chosen option for many. Our research revealed the approach to combatting rural crime from a policing perspective is reactive and concentrates mainly on communicating awareness.

Is there a solution to reducing the risk of rural crime?

As a security professional I would suggest a proactive approach such as a CCTV perimeter intruder detection system which is monitored yourself or by a 24/7 monitoring station, this would provide immediate response to an activation. This type of system will reduce the likelihood of being targeted and could save you thousands of pounds and your livelihood.

Paul Johnston, Cerebral Security Solutions

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 11

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INTERNET

Do you have a Windows 7 computer? Then read on

MICRoSoFT has stopped supporting Windows 7 so that it can focus on "newer technologies". As a result, Windows 7 users will no longer receive the all-important security updates and patches that keep their machines safe.

What does this all mean?

It means that without security updates, if hackers find a flaw in Windows 7, Microsoft will not fix it. Without continued software and security updates, Windows 7 machines are more likely to be infected with viruses and malware.

Running an unpatched machine means that the flaws in the code will never be fixed and as exploits for those flaws become known and widespread, your chances of being successfully attacked grow very rapidly.

So what are the risks?

Hackers use malware to invade, damage or disable computers. It can be used to steal personal and financial data, spy on other users without them knowing, and to hold companies to ransom until a payment is made.

In May 2017, the NHS was hit by the WannaCry ransomware attack. A government report in 2018 concluded that the attack could have been avoided if NHS Trusts had updated their computers and applied the necessary security patches. Hackers exploited weaknesses in unpatched versions of Windows 7, as well as to a lesser extent the earlier Windows XP, which Microsoft had stopped supporting.

What should you do with your Windows 7 PC? Computers running Windows 7 will still function but they will become less and less secure. Microsoft is urging people to move to Windows 10, a newer operating system that it sells for £120.

"Going forward, the best way for you to stay secure is on Windows 10," it said. "And the best way to experience Windows 10 is on a new PC." It is possible to install Windows 10 on old PCs but Microsoft warns that it may not run smoothly. In order to run Windows 10, PCs must have a 1GHz processor, 16GB of hard drive space, and 1GB of RAM memory. However, the good news is that Windows 7 users do not need to upgrade if they use their PC offline.

BEWARE of a text from EE asking you to update your account. It appears totally genuine but is a scam. Contact them direct instead.

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PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 1 Clockface after army unit restorative (8) 5 Recluse or ascetic (6) 10 An unacceptable or unwelcome person (7,3,5) 11 Postured, put on (7) 12 Flexible (7) 13 Traitor (8) 15 Abbreviation for 'Master of ceremonies' (5) 18 Chasm, bottomless pit (5) 20 Raises to the peerage, elevates (8) 23 Disease that often results in lockjaw (7) 25 Informal way of saying delicious or delicious (7) 26 Resistance, of a material, to being pulled apart (7,8) 27 Tool with a curbed blade that was used for cutting crops (6) 28 Roosters’ expanse of water near Cheddar (8) DOWN 1 Do it again or reshowing of TV programme (6) 2 Along with Farmborough, Saltford and Stanton Prior one of “The Hundred of Keynsham”

3 4 6 7 8 9

14 16 17 19 21 22 24 25

Used to be known as a commissionaire (7) Trophy or decoration (5) Avenger will make his mark (anag.) (7) Intended (5) He could put straw on your roof (8) County town of Wessex (8) Go beyond what is respectable (8) Village 3 miles west of Pensford station sometimes called Bishop’s Chew.

Salts of lactic acid (8) This aquatic creature might have a healthy tan (7) Wild or frenzied. A word derived from the name of a Norse warrior who fought with fury (7) Small round fruit with sweet white scented flesh (6) A bluefish (5) Fight or argument (3-2)

Clues in italics are cryptic by greendandelion

This month’s solution can be found on page 97

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

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

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

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

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

Tel: 0800 097 8611

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

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

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

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MENDIP TIMES

EVENTS

Chew Valley Santa Scramble

1st Joe Prichard of Pensford (centre), 2nd Joel Woolley of Chew Stoke (right) and 3rd Ben Harding of East Harptree First female Emma Perry, aged 12, of Cheddar Running Club

Running for hospice

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

The Hawes family and friend from Chew Magna

Hundreds of people took part in the Dorothy House Santa & Elf Run at Bath Spa University

2nd female Teresa Lovern, Somer AC, from Stowey Bottom

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MENDIP TIMES

Love is . . ? I’ll make you a sandwich!

With JUNE MACFARLANE

These ice cream and jam sandwiches will melt anyone’s heart

Unleash your creativity on Valentine’s Day – make a sandwich for someone you love!

Assemble your foodie palette and produce a masterpiece. It’s one of the nicest things you can do to show you care.

CROQUE MONSIEUR AND CROQUE MADAME INGREDIENTS

(for two) 30g butter 2 tbsp flour 200ml milk Nutmeg 200g Gruyère cheese, finely grated 4 slices sourdough bread 2tbsp Dijon mustard 2 thick slices ham 30g butter 1 egg

A top pair of ham and cheese sandwiches, even if they are French.

The egg is a little hat for madame.

The one without the hat is monsieur.

METHOD Make the béchamel sauce.

Melt the butter, add flour and cook through before adding milk.

Whisk until thick. Add a few gratings of nutmeg and 50g cheese. Set aside. Spread two slices of bread with mustard, add ham slices, most of the remaining cheese and top with bread. Melt butter in a frying pan and when it stops foaming fry sandwiches on each side until golden. Heat grill. Spread béchamel on top of sandwiches, add remaining cheese and grill until golden. For Croque Madame top with a fried egg.

What’s mine, is yours: ham and cheese, French style!

PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

BRIOCHE ICE CREAM SANDWICH

Like wafers and Walls – but SO much better! Use your best ice cream and jam – I like vanilla ice cream and apricot jam.

INGREDIENTS

Per sandwich 2 slices brioche from a loaf, crusts removed 30g butter 2 tbsp good jam Ice cream

METHOD Leave ice cream in freezer until the last moment. Fry brioche in butter on both sides until golden. Melt jam in a small pan with one tbsp water. Brush brioche slices with jam. With a hot knife cut slices of ice cream. Assemble sandwich and serve with remaining jam as a sauce. Serve immediately!

KING OYSTER, BLUE CHEESE AND PICKLED CARROTS INGREDIENTS

(for one) 2 medium carrots peeled and cut into batons 300ml water 250 ml cider vinegar 50g sugar 2 garlic cloves, bruised 1 ½ tsp fennel seeds 1 ½ tbsp salt 1 bay leaf Sandwich Olive oil 1 clove garlic, bruised 1 King oyster mushroom Hamburger bun 50g Dolcelatte cheese 1 tbsp pickled carrots Lamb’s lettuce

Try king oyster mushrooms for their heft and umami flavour. Add some Dolcelatte and pickled carrots and you have a stunning vegetarian sandwich. Make the pickled carrots one day ahead. You will have one jar.

METHOD To make pickled carrots: blanch carrots in salted boiling water for one minute. Drain, rinse in cold water. In the same pan heat water, vinegar and sugar. Add garlic, fennel seeds and salt. Simmer for two minutes. Remove from heat and add carrots. Cool. Put into jar and chill.

For sandwich: in a frying pan warm garlic in 2tbsp oil for one minute. Remove garlic. Slice mushroom lengthways and crosshatch on one side. Fry slices in flavoured oil until golden on each side. Remove. Toast bun.

Tear cheese into pieces and assemble sandwich. Serve warm.

Show your veg some love

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What’s new from

Myrtle Farm

FOOD & DRINK

A round-up of events from Thatchers Cider in Sandford

Find out more about careers opportunities at Myrtle Farm

WE’RE always looking for remarkable and motivated people to join our growing Thatchers family! So we’re holding a Careers Day on Saturday 8th February for anyone who wants to know more about the range of exciting career opportunities available at Myrtle Farm.

From apprenticeships through to university placements, our 2020 Talent Programme has openings for those interested in all aspects of life at Myrtle Farm, from cidermaking, finance, sales, even training to be a chef!

If you, or anyone you know, is interested in attending our Careers Day, please do so by completing the enrolment form at www.thatcherscider.co.uk/young-talent-programme/ It’s an RSVP event, so please don’t forget to register.

Sign up for the Weston Hospicecare Men’s March

EnjOY a ten-mile walking challenge and raise funds for Weston Hospicecare at the same time!

We’re delighted to be supporting the Men’s March once again this year, taking place on Saturday 14th March. As well as a thirst-quenching pint of Thatchers Gold at the end of the walk, those taking part will also enjoy a Pieminister pie – and plenty of excitement with Six nations Rugby on the big screen. So please support the care of those affected by life-limited illnesses by registering for the event: https://www.westonhospicecare.org.uk mensmarch/

Waes-Hael!

WE’VE been celebrating one of our favourite cidermaking traditions, the Wassail.

With the Green Man and our Wassail Queen helping awaken the apple trees from their winter slumber, the good spirits have been truly welcomed into our orchards.

So we’re once again looking forward to a plentiful harvest.

Waes hael!

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

MENDIP ENDIPTTIMES IMES••N FOVEMBER EBRUARY 2017 2020 • PAGE 17 M

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MENDIP TIMES

New venue opens in Congresbury SOnYA Stocker isn’t just a pillar of the community in Congresbury – she’s now provided a hub for people to meet there.

She opened Congars Café in Broad Street on December 4th in time for the village’s Christmas Fair, thanks to support from family and friends who helped her get it ready.

It’s named after St Congar, who is buried in the village’s St Andrew’s churchyard. Sonya is a member of the church committee, one of the leaders of the village guides, a supporter of Love Congresbury and the village’s Youth Partnership.

Husband, Ian, and daughters, Chloe, aged 16, and Gemma, aged 19, have been involved, as well as her mum and step-mum – so

Congresbury’s new Congar’s café

Open: 8am-4pm Monday to Friday 9am-4pm Saturday

Cakes, toast, ciabattas, soup, jackets, toasties, sandwiches, salads Locally sourced – coffee from Wogan’s Bread and cakes from Winnie’s To eat in or takeaway Ramblers and cyclists welcome Between Yatton and Winscombe on the Strawberry Line

Broad Street, Congresbury BS49 5DG 07715 876827

she describes it as a real family affair.

Many friends have also leant their support – the business logo was designed by jamie Carter, aged 15, daughter of a church friend, Caz, whose other daughter Alyx, aged 17, has also helped in the café.

Most of the furniture is secondhand and the counter was made with reclaimed wood by Oli Lee from Cheddar. The café uses ethical products, locally sourced.

Sonya, who has lived in the village for 24 years, says she partly set it up in memory of her father, john, who she used to meet in coffee shops before he died of Parkinson’s last year, but also as a community space for people who might be lonely or isolated to get out and meet other people.

She said someone told her: “Oh my goodness, we so need one here.”

It’s also handy for cyclists and ramblers using the nearby Strawberry Line, as well as being on the school run and just off a main commuter route.

The café has a small play area for children and she hopes to host craft sessions for youngsters, as well as vintage teas and other events in future.

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S WITH US!

Country shopping at its best

Centred around a traditional farm courtyard near Chew Valley Lake – the very best in local produce and gift ideas

Treat mum to Mother’s Day with us

NEW BUTCHERY RANGE OF MEATS

TEA ROOMS

Hot & cold meals Delicious cream teas Full English breakfasts Come and enjoy our lovely Sunday roast lunches

FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE HIRE

Opening times: Farm shop: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am - 5.30pm • Sunday 10am - 5pm Tea Room: Monday to Sunday 8.30am - 4.30pm

Wheelchair access, children welcome, free parking, coaches by appointment

New Spring Emma Bridgewater collection Sarah Raven seeds and Spring plants

Enjoy a good Sunday roast

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW Farm Shop: 01761 220067 • Tea Rooms: 01761 220172

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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GARDEN FOOD

January King

WE'VE done really well with these january King cabbages this year and they're proving to be an invaluable green during “the hungry gap”. They are a super hardy cabbage and overwinter well, but can mature a little erratically, being ready to harvest With JAKE anytime between October and March.

WHITSON They are somewhat intermediate between Savoy type cabbage and white cabbages, and have crunchy hearts that are great shredded in salads and crinkly leaves that are great for steaming as a cooked vegetable.

Another way I love to prepare kales and cabbages at this time of year is as kale or cabbage “crisps”. These can be done either in the oven or dehydrator – I like this quick oven method as I don't often want to wait eight hours for them to dry in the dehydrator!

To make them, simply wash and spin dry your dark green outer cabbage leaves – or kale, brussels sprout tops or pretty much any other brassica leaves – then rub them with a little olive oil, salt, and sesame seeds and spread out on a baking tray.

Preheat your oven to 175ºc and roast them for about 15 minutes until crispy – they are delicious hot or cold. I like them crumbled over a soup or rice, or just eaten like potato crisps. If you can get them, “kalettes”, or kale sprouts, are especially delicious cooked in this way – the outer leaves turn into kale crisps and the centres become meaty and delicious, like artichokes.

I've found them at a few markets locally recently and intend to start growing them in the coming season – they look exactly like a hybrid between kale and brussels sprouts, which is in fact exactly what they are, and have the same beautiful purple hue as my january King cabbages.

Jacob Whitson is a chef, food writer and smallholder.

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

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

A no sting spring!

MILD winters are great but it does usually mean wet and miserable rather than cold and clear. However, with the mild winter comes early flowering (and I hope we do not get any late frosts to set this back) and a sense that everything is waking up, coming alive, new beginnings and fresh starts.

With ADRIAN So, you decide to go out for a walk on one BOOTS of the lesser muddy, wet days in the hope that the dog actually comes back looking dog-like rather than something from a horror movie. There, in a non-muddy patch you spy greenery and a purple/pink flower and can rejoice finally. Spring is here!

One of the first flowers to appear in late winter early spring is Red Dead nettle and I hope this will be a good year for it. Other family members include the similar looking White Dead nettle which comes as no surprise that it has white flowers rather than, erm, red.

Indeed, both plants whilst superficially appearing like stinging nettle do not in fact “sting” thus the “dead” part of the name. Another plant, Yellow Archangel, also gained its heavenly name during the Middle Ages for the same reason. With fantastic old Somerset names such as bumblebee flower (due to its attractiveness to bees), deaf nettle, dumb nettle (due to lack of stings), Red Dead nettle is a welcome sight on any springtime walk.

Red Dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) is an annual plant ten to 40 m in height. The labiate flowers common to all mint family plant members are pinkish purple ten to 18mm long in whorls above the leaves. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, are toothed and heart-shaped at the base to a point similar to nettle.

The stem is square and the whole plant can have a purple tinge to it but has a pleasant aroma when the flower is crushed. Found February to november it is a common plant of field margins, under hedges and gardens.

The plant is high in iron and anti-oxidants and was used medically as an astringent. Fresh Red Dead contain a little nectar giving an ever so slightly sweet flavour to its fresh taste. Finely chop then incorporate into couscous rather than the usual mint making for a wonderfully unusual dish.

Why not try a Three nettle Soup (TM) with red, white and stinging nettle following the usual nettle soup recipe? Spring is a good time for getting out and about in the countryside and an even better time to try exciting new wild foods. Hopefully without the taste of wet dog.

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

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 19

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MENDIP TIMES

From city suits to wellie boots – pub owners are part of the community WHEn nikki and Mark Hutchison decided to escape the London hustle and bustle, they had little idea it would lead to buying a country pub on Mendip. now into their fourth year of running the Horse and jockey at Binegar, the couple and their two children say they have absolutely no regrets.

Both nikki and Mark had high pressure jobs, commuting daily from their home in the north West London suburbs to the city. Their original plan had been to buy a bed and breakfast in the Forest of Dean but that fell through and then they were told about the pub – it was love at first sight.

The couple have been determined to maintain the “jockey” as a traditional village pub, welcoming locals and visitors to the quirky and intimate cider bar or the main bar and restaurant. Any changes have been kept to a minimum – new furniture in the restaurant and a general tidy-up, for example – but the quality of the food and drink on offer is as good as ever. That includes the famous pub pizzas, a favourite for many years. nikki said: “Our food is all about being honest, homemade, good quality – and good value, especially our Sunday roasts.”

The couple and their team at the Horse and jockey are also keen supporters of village life, organising or hosting many events, including the recent Binegar Bonkers Barrow Race,

Nikki and Mark Hutchison in the famous cider bar

organised by the Binegar and Gurney Slade fundraising group, which raised £800 for the Mendip School, where one of the couple’s children is a pupil. nikki added: “We’ve been made to feel very welcome in Binegar and we are proud to be part of the community. We weren’t sure what it would be like relocating to Somerset from London, but it’s been the best decision for us all.”

Dating from the 18th Century, the Horse and Jockey offers a cosy cider bar, main bar and restaurant where we serve traditional home-made meals, deep pan pizzas and a popular Sunday roast.

Nikki, Mark, their family and the team welcome you to a rare little jewel on the beautiful Mendip Hills in the village of Binegar.

Restaurant opening times: Monday-Saturday: Midday to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm Sunday: Midday to 3pm

Bar opening times: Monday-Thursday: midday to 3pm and 6pm to closing Friday: midday-3pm and 5pm to closing Saturday and Sunday: midday to closing PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Whether it’s for a quick drink and a catch up with friends or to relax over a lovely meal, the welcome will always be warm with a very friendly atmosphere.

Now in our fourth year, we’re delighted to be part of the community.

We’ve just helped to raise £800 for The Mendip School!

Follow us on Facebook for all our news and events, including live music

The Horse and Jockey, Binegar Lane, Binegar, Radstock BA3 4UH. Tel: 01749 840537 • www.horsesandjockeybinegar.com

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

Knowing “Noses”

BEFORE pre-release of our limited edition 2018 Regent at a special Tapas & Tasting evening on Friday, March 13th, managing director Sandy Luck sought expert appraisal from The Pig near Bath.

Head sommelier Ed Osborne placed With the first order for Regent 2017 in early ELIZABETH March 2019. Ed’s diary being full, LAVER assistant head sommelier Harry White proved most obliging.

“We loved the 2017 Regent,” Harry said. “We found it really quite robust, with good weight, lovely dark fruit, and a great depth of flavour. The 2018 vintage has a beautiful bouquet of dark cherries with an undertone of pepper, much like a Cabernet Franc. It has really lovely soft tannins.”

Encouraging praise! The Pig, with their “obsessive commitment to home-grown and local produce” leads a West Country charge to support quality winegrowers. Green credentials? Their acclaimed “25-mile menu” bears a lighter carbon-footprint tread than mythical Aldwick vineyard fairies in steel-toed muckboots.

Hooray to Harry for “Somm’s” verdict on tannins! Our winemaker Steve Brooksbank takes full credit for not aging the 2018 Regent in oak.

FOOD & DRINK

Swap seeds and share news!

SOMERSET Community Food, a charity based in Glastonbury, will be taking part in the annual Glastonbury Seed Swap on Saturday, February 1st at Glastonbury Town Hall.

Starting at 11am, the day will feature stalls and demonstrations, home-cooked food and entertainment in the evening.

Topics to be covered by a number of speakers range from GM foods, successful seed sowing and small-scale growers to land history and caring for fruit trees.

Somerset Local Food – knows as Edible Somerset – says it is planning a series of talks and a larger event later in the year.

Other seed swaps coming up include the Frome Seed Swap and Potato Day, at the Cheese and Grain on Sunday, February 23rd and a potato day, green fair and seed swap at Conygre Hall in Timsbury on Saturday, March 14th.

For details, visit: www,somersetcommunityfood.org.uk

Elizabeth Laver is Vineyard Manager

For wine & vineyard tours visit www.aldwickestate.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 21

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MENDIP TIMES

The Music Pantry opens in Wedmore

WE LOVE MUSIC AND FOOD AT THE MUSIC PANTRY, AND YOU WILL FIND A WORLD OF FRESHLY PREPARED, HOME-MADE (AND MOSTLY ORGANIC) PLANT BASED CREATIONS INSPIRED BY CUISINES FROM AROUND THE WORLD, PAIRED WITH BESPOKE MUSIC PLAYLISTS AND LIVE ACTS.

WE PROVIDE A UNIVERSAL EXPERIENCE AND CATER TO ALL TASTES, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU FOLLOW AN OMNIVOROUS DIET, ARE A FLEXITARIAN, VEGETARIAN OR VEGAN, OR REQUIRE GLUTEN FREE FOOD.

CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE (@FROMTHEMUSICPANTRY) FOR DETAILS OF OUR UPCOMING EVENTS AND THEMED NIGHTS INCLUDING OUR FIRST “WEDMORE SECRET SESSIONS”, BURNS WEEKEND, VALENTINES DINNER WITH SEASONED LOCAL MUSICIAN LIAM HOWARD PERFORMING AN INTIMATE SET OF THE BEST IN ALTERNATIVE LOVE SONGS AND THE LAUNCH OF WEDMORE’S OWN OPEN MIC NIGHT.

The Borough, Wedmore BS28 4EB 01934 707660 • themusicpantry@gmail.com www.themusicpantry.co.uk PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

HEATHER Brumby and Liam Howard have combined their passion for music and vegan food to open The Music Pantry in The Borough at Wedmore.

Given Wedmore and Somerset’s strong Green credentials – and appetite for music – the couple hope it will become a full-time business.

At the moment Heather still works in the public sector while Liam works with adults with learning difficulties, opening The Music Pantry on Thursday evenings, Fridays and at weekends. It offers a wide mix of live and recorded music – with food to match.

For example a recent Secret Session featured one of Liam’s bands Shoto-daito with a three-course plant-based japanese banquet at £22.95. The band’s first album Yugen was featured by BBC Radio Somerset and Glastonbury FM. Liam is lead singer and guitarist in another local band, Truthseekers, and is well known on the local music scene as a singer/songwriter.

Heather said: “next time we might feature Motown with burgers and junk food!”

She has been a vegetarian for ten years and became vegan for health and environmental reasons.

She said: “You would go out socially and find there was one option, vegetarian lasagne, so I started creating my own recipes and got friends round to try them. Then I did a family wedding, all plant-based, which was a real baptism of fire.”

She honed her skills in her spare time at Loves in Westonsuper-Mare and by staging pop-ups. All her vegetables are seasonal and organic where possible. Their Sunday Roast features vegan haggis, mushroom Wellington and no beef and onion pie!

Her mum Gail bakes (eggless) cakes and sister, Helen, helps behind the bar. Gail’s partner jon helped decorate the place, which is full of posters and other musical memorabilia.

Liam said: “We hope to have open mic nights, with local or niche artists, as well as the Secret Sessions, to give people some entertainment while enjoying delicious food.”

They also plan to host private functions, yoga, silent discos and other events. They would love you to get in touch if you have any ideas for events that might suit their small and intimate venue.

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FOOD & DRINK

Tea rooms win gold

jACCI Cawte and Sarah jenkins bought Charlottes Tea Rooms, in Winscombe in March last year and renamed it the Strawberry Line Tea Rooms after the railway line that transported strawberries through the village.

With assistant manager Liz Linham they instantly gained a 5star food hygiene rating and pride themselves on producing “made to order” home-cooked food from their menu with home-made scones for vintage cream and afternoon teas.

They aim to source their ingredients locally and use the local community businesses where possible.

They refurbished the tea rooms to make them light and airy with a rustic vintage feel and utilised their garden throughout the summer, welcoming walkers, dogs and cyclists.

They became a member of Taste of the West and entered the award in the Café/Tearoom category and won GOLD! judges said the food was great, looked appealing and was all delicious, fresh and piping hot; the presentation was perfect and the service was friendly and efficient.

One said: “I hadn’t heard of it before but glad to have had a reason to visit! It’s a great facility for the locals and visitors to Winscombe and I think the home-made and local menu are a great option.” jacci said: “What an amazing first year it has been. Thanks to the support of our customers, we look forward welcoming more, old and new.”

They are planning a party on Friday, March 13th with Prosecco and birthday cake.

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MENDIP TIMES

Cap care costs yourself, suggests National Friendly

SucceSSive governments have, for years, failed to address the issue of social care funding despite a care cap being introduced in 2014, only for this to be subsequently abandoned. it is a little-known fact, however, that it is possible for someone to cap their own care costs using an insurance product called a care fees annuity. it has been around for many years but, in recent times, was only offered by two insurance companies.

Now National Friendly, the Bristol based insurer, has launched their own version of this product and has joined forces with care funding specialists, eldercare Solutions, to increase awareness of this as a solution to funding care costs.

National Friendly points out that the rules around social and healthcare funding are complex and the product will not be appropriate for everyone, hence its decision to partner with an independent specialist in the field.

The product is not without risk, as early death could lead to a significant loss of capital, but that’s why professional advice is crucial and eldercare Solutions can advise on the product’s suitability and, of course, affordability.

The specialist nature of this advice means that consumers faced with funding long-term care costs, are not well served by the financial services sector in general.

The vast majority of self-funders in care homes have never heard of a care fees annuity. A self-funder, as far as social care is concerned, is someone with over £23,250 of assessable assets in england (£50,000 in Wales)*.

Wayne carter, head of sales and marketing at National Friendly says: “A care fees annuity, as with other types of annuities, provides a regular and guaranteed income for life in exchange for a one-off, upfront, lump sum payment.

“Where it differs from a standard annuity is that these are individually underwritten to take full account of the person’s health (historic and current) and their day to day care needs. in addition, if the payments are made directly to a registered care provider then the income is completely tax-free.

“The cost will depend on how much income is needed from the annuity and the decision the underwriters make in respect of the person’s potential life expectancy.”

Nicky cave, of eldercare Solutions, said: “The average cost of a care fees annuity taken out by our clients during 2019 was about £158,000, this was a range of ages, from people in their early 70s to their late 90s, all with differing income requirements and different health conditions.

“The families that this solution works best for are those wanting peace of mind that funds cannot run out if care is needed for several years. it’s a genuine alternative to the ‘pay as you go’ approach, keeping fingers crossed that the savings will last.”

By partnering with eldercare Solutions, National Friendly not only launches a valuable product into the later life market but ensures the advice that accompanies this is second to none.

For a personalised quote call eldercare Solutions today and speak with a telephone consultant on 0800 082 1155.

For more information visit: www.nationalfriendly.co.uk/es

Data Sources • https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/money-work-and-benefits/paying-for-your-own-care-self-funding/

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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Jean hangs up her scissors

There’S a familiar face missing from radstock town centre – hairdresser Jean Meredith has decided to retire after 53 years.

She started her business in what is now radstock Museum, when it was still a market, then moved across the road to what had been casswells.

She said: “closing was quite a sad day really. i’ve had wonderful customers, some of them now the grandchildren of those i started Jean and husband Roy with.”

She’s given up because of health problems – but hopes that won’t end her charity work. Jean, aged 74, and her husband roy, aged 80, a former electrician, are both members of Somer valley Ac and have raised £120,000 for charities with their sponsored runs. Jean has also been the organist at radstock Methodist church for many years. She and roy have three sons, 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

One of Jean’s customers contacted us to say: “i feel this couple richly deserve and should be given a reward for what they have achieved, they are very modest about it.

“Please don't tell her i told you, she will tell me off. They are a lovely couple, support each other, and have been married over 50 years.”

BUSINESS

P & C Logs Call Phil on 07734 098323, or Colleen on 07785 250033 or on Evenings 01934 741941 Friendly prompt service from Phil & Colleen at their farm in Charterhouse Quality seasoned beech and ash hardwood, chopped and split into a variety of load options (with free delivery).

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 25

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MENDIP TIMES

The law and your sports club

iN what is believed to be a local “first”, solicitors Thatcher + hallam are organising two free conferences called Off The Ball, aimed at helping officials, coaches and volunteer parents on how best to protect their local amateur sports club, their members and themselves.

The conference is the initiative of Thatcher + hallam solicitor William Weller. As well as being the firm’s senior partner, Will is also a sought-after personal injury lawyer. he said: “As a firm we have always had close links to local sport. We currently sponsor several local sports clubs. however, it was through my work as a personal injury lawyer that i witnessed how many club volunteers had no real idea of their personal liability and legal responsibilities.

“The idea of the Off The Ball conference then started to take shape.

Myself and other members of the panel will be there to answer the regular

questions on issues from claims arising from reckless tackles, to physical assault, the behaviour of parents and spectators, as well as the dodgy pitch.”

For Will, however, the one issue that has changed the whole legal landscape is that of safeguarding and child protection. he said: “We are therefore delighted to welcome as a key member of our panel, Mr Bob Fox, who is a director at the Somerset Football Association as well as their safeguarding champion. Bob will of course be addressing matters such as under age and DBS checks.”

The first Off The Ball conference takes place at Paulton rovers Fc on Wednesday, February 5th at 6pm, with the second event at Frome rFc on Thursday, February 27th at 6pm.

Will added: “These two conferences are essential for anyone serious about sport, from rugby to swimming, cricket, tennis, athletics, hockey and football. We also expect teachers and school governors to

be in attendance, learning on how to keep sports environments safe.”

Details: Off The Ball is a free event but demand is likely to be high. To book your place and venue call Thatcher + Hallam on 01761 414646. Free tea coffee and refreshments are available. A pay bar will also be available at both venues.

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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BUSINESS

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 27

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MENDIP TIMES

Responding to the needs of the community

There is currently a movement afoot which i understand is called “Talk to Stangers”. it’s designed to help us to chat to people who might be lonely and to encourage good feeling around us. i support this wholeheartedly as i am the daughter of a serial “chat to Anybody” father, (oh, the embarrassment of being a student in London with a father who would talk to anyone and everyone, just as i was cultivating the London Middle-Distance Stare!) and have now grown into just such a “chatter” as he was.

You see, i am from Wales. i was born in a pretty little town close to the border with england called crickhowell and spent my first two years in a little mining village called Blaenavon, which was not Welsh speaking and could most definitely have featured in under Milk Wood.

Try for size the fact that the Salvation Army band played every Saturday evening at what was locally known as “hallelujah Lamp post” – i kid you not. So, i am used to everyone stopping for a chat and everyone knowing everyone’s business. Anyway, my point is that the community was very strong ... actually, most of us were related!

Times have changed, but here in Mendip, we have retained this strong sense of community and there are still a lot of people who are constantly helping others and bringing the community together despite not sharing the tiniest double helix of DNA. i like to think that local businesses can and will do the same thing.

Not only do the larger, national businesses such as

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

supermarkets give leftover supplies to charities, but smaller local concerns offer sponsorship to local events and free advice to those in need. A little time and expertise given freely can rebound positively with recommendations and a loyal and supportive customer base. it also helps us to get to know people in the community we serve and to learn how our behaviours impact on others and perhaps, if necessary, to change them. i have worked for many years with a variety of charities supporting people directly and, believe me, i have never regretted one minute i have spent with them. The things they taught me have not been wasted now that i work in a family business in the area. One important lesson is that businesses can succeed or fail depending on the relationships they develop with their clients.

The product is only ever half of the story. it’s true that we need to listen to our clients and become ever more aware of their needs in order to flourish. if, for instance, we apologise for our mistakes, our customers are much more likely to remain with us. if we change our service or product to suit them, their support becomes even stronger. Better yet, if we deliver what we promise in the first place, we are tending that all important relationship in the best possible way.

So let’s be aware of what’s going on around us and let’s respond kindly and positively to everyone we have dealings with and let’s all have a happy and successful 2020!

Jane Bowe Probusiness

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BUSINESS

Tying the knot without getting married – new changes in the law GOOD news for heterosexual couples who don’t want to get married. With effect from Monday 2 December 2019 mixed-sex couples could register their intent to enter a civil partnership. As the minimum period of notice for a civil partnership is 28 days, it meant that mixed-sex couples who registered their intent on the 2nd December were able to enter into their civil partnerships as from 31 December 2019. hitherto the choice to opt for a civil partnership rather than marriage had been closed to heterosexual couples ever since civil partnerships were introduced in 2004, when the civil Partnership Act stated that only samesex couples were entitled to apply. recent decisions in the courts have prompted this overdue and welcome change in the law.

Is there a demand for civil partnerships? currently, there are approximately 3.3million unmarried couples in the uK. These couples live together, have children together, and share financial responsibilities. however until now, because they were not legally “married” in the eyes of the law, they did not have the same financial protection as a married couple. With a civil partnership, these couples can now have the same legal treatment for a whole range of issues, including inheritance issues, tax breaks and pensions.

The only exception is for siblings who live together, who are still not given the same degree of financial and legal protection.

The uK is becoming more of a secular society than ever before. The option to have a formal partnership that does not require the church to recognise it sits well with couples who have no interest in getting married in a church, or who have moral objections to the concept of ‘marriage and so there will probably be a demand for civil partnerships.

The “Common Law” myth Ask almost any unmarried couple who have been together for a long time if their partnership is recognised as a “common law” partnership, and many would say yes. however, common law marriage is a myth, at least in the uK. While common law itself is an intrinsic part of British law, it certainly has no legal relevance to partnerships, and while the term “common law wife” may have been widely used for years, it’s actually meaningless and has absolutely no basis in law. up until the present changes you were either married, or you weren’t. however new law, though, will not offer protection for co-habiting couples who do not choose to formalise things in a civil partnership. Those who simply carry on “just living together” will be in exactly the same position as

they were before, with little or no financial or legal surety or protection, regardless of whether or not they have children. Parental rights will still automatically be awarded to the mother (always a bone of contention in custody battles between co-habiting partners), and the relatives of a partner are still well within their rights to challenge any Will that names the unmarried partner as the sole or main beneficiary.

So choosing to enter into a civil partnership is a sensible course to take if you want to formalise your relationship, protect your assets, or even just ‘tie the knot’ without a church or registry office ceremony. if you are in any doubt as to your position it is always open to you to seek legal advice.

EDWARD LYONS

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

OFFICES AT: Westbury-on-Trym 0117 950 6506

Kingswood 0117 967 5252 MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 29

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MENDIP TIMES

BUSINESS

Getting your ducks in a row DeciDiNG to move home and finding where you want to go is often the easy part, but where do you start? To help, our team at Mogers Drewett have created a useful guide to make moving as easy as possible.

Find an estate agent Do some research and ask for recommendations. Find out who operates in your area and think about who will best represent you and your property.

Hiring a solicitor it’s important to do this as early as possible and don’t wait until offers have been accepted. Seek out personal recommendations as a local solicitor with experience of your market and similar properties is always valuable. having decided to sell your property, collate all practical information so it’s ready to pass on to your solicitor, e.g. planning permission of works you have completed, warranties and guarantees, up to date service records for the electrics and heating.

Do not compare quotes on costs alone, moving home is one of the biggest purchases you will make so it is important to protect your home by receiving the best advice. A quote should include all costs related to buying and selling – this will help you budget for the whole process including payments to be made at the end of your purchase like Stamp Duty and Land registry fees.

Survey You should have a survey before you commit to your purchase as it may reveal any issues with the property that your solicitor may not be aware of. Look for a surveyor with local knowledge and ask them to copy their report to your solicitors to ensure that all appropriate enquiries are raised.

Getting a mortgage Discuss your options with an independent mortgage broker who will help find your best deal. Mortgage lenders will assess your financial circumstances so avoid making any significant changes to your mogersdrewett.com

We are looking for an Office Junior to join our team based in Temple Cloud!

You need to be a confident individual, talking to our client and providing administration/account support to the team, ensuring high levels of organisation, efficiency, communication and customer service.

Key responsibilities: Screening calls and taking detailed, accurate messages where necessary.

Supporting the team, including managing our customer base, processing customer orders and dealing with customer requests.

Updating the company database and systems.

Full training will be given.

Office cover during staff holidays.

Essential requirements: Polite and confident telephone manner Excellent written and verbal communication skills Confident with all Microsoft Office packages Previous administrative experience an advantage, but not necessary.

Personality profile: Excellent attention to detail Extremely organised Able to prioritise a changing to-do list Uses initiative Comfortable working both individually and as part of a team Reliable & dependable.

Job Type: Full-time; holiday allowance 20 days annual leave per annum Closing date February 21st

Contact: Stewart Laws, Operations Manager stewart.laws@gillards.com PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

financial circumstances before applying for a mortgage, e.g. changing employment, applying for loans/credit cards, or changing address, as this could impact upon your credit score and ability to get a mortgage.

Confirm the date During the legal process you will be in touch with the estate agents to agree on a completion date. The day you move will be confirmed when contracts are exchanged.

Debra Morley, Chartered Legal Executive, Residential Property team at Mogers Drewett

ECATCHER MOL

Pretty Sitting UPHOLSTERY & INTERIORS

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

Reupholstery • Soft furnishings Courses • Vintage Furniture

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

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Change of venue for hunt meet

MENDIP Farmers’ Hunt met at a different location in Ston Easton on New Year’s Day because Ston Easton Park Hotel was unavailable due to a party booking; instead, riders and followers gathered on farmland opposite the village hall.

An inquisitive hound…

The hounds head off towards Ston Easton church …

. . . whilst another enjoys some attention

In for the long haul

… closely followed by the riders

VOLUNTEERS at the East Somerset Railway have an exciting new project for 2020 with the arrival of Ex-GWR Large Prairie 4110 2-6-2T which arrived at the Cranmore site after being transported from the Dartmouth Steam Railway.

The ESR will begin three years of restoration work followed by a three-year period when the heritage line will be able to use the loco to haul their passenger trains.

The loco was built at Swindon Works in 1936 and withdrawn from service in 1965. After languishing at Barry scrapyard until 1979 it was sold to the West Somerset Railway in 2015, remaining at Minehead until February last year when, due to lack of funding for the restoration work, it was sold to the Dartmouth Steam Railway.

The ESR has built up an excellent reputation for its renovation of steam engines in recent years. Last November the volunteers completed a two-year restoration project on 5239 Goliath which was seen hauling the Santa Specials in December.

PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

The large Prairie loco arrives at Cranmore – it should be operational in three years’ time

Train lovers can look forward to a bumper crop of locos to enjoy during the ESR’s annual Steam Gala which will see five engines running, including a small Prairie 4555, which will be on loan also to the ESR for two years from the Dartmouth Steam Railway. The gala will be held on the weekend of March 21st and 22nd.

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MENDIP TIMES

Frome art installation

Learning new skills

CAM Valley Arts Trail Group will be running a day of workshops on Saturday, February 29th at the Conygre Hall in Timsbury and say that this is a fantastic opportunity to try different art and creative techniques.

Any profit made will be used to fund free taster art sessions at the group’s annual autumn arts trail.

One of the organisers, Alison ter Haar, said: “You will be amazed at how much you can do in a couple of hours and have something made by you to take home.”

Workshops include calligraphy, lino cutting and printing, botanical ceramics, willow dragonflies, acrylic painting, and an introduction to silver jewellery. Bookings open on February 1st.

Tim Gander and Cllr Wyke

A SERIES of photographs by Frome-based artist, Tim Gander, has been installed on hoardings surrounding the town’s derelict Saxonvale site.

The leader of Mendip District Council, Cllr Ros Wyke, was with him to witness the unveiling of the public artwork, entitled “What Happened Here?”

The panels feature 13 thought-provoking, original images telling some of the human stories connected to the dilapidated site. Tim spent two years documenting life at the location before the council acquired and secured the land in August 2018.

It plans to regenerate the long-neglected site. Tim said: “It feels a bit unreal seeing my work displayed on the hoardings but I’m very proud of the results.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what the reaction of people will be. I really hope it helps the community engage with the project and that it encourages other artists to put proposals forward.”

Details: http://www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk

Winter wonderland

Details: email saxonvale@mendip.gov.uk

PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

This stunning image of mist forming over the Somerset Levels was taken by Duncan Steward of Frome.

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Garage find generates huge interest A RARE Expressionist painting found languishing in a Somerset garage generated a huge level of interest when it was offered at the December sale of Antiques and Collectables at the Mendip Auction Rooms.

The painting by Carlos Nadal (1917–1998) was found hidden in a garage amongst a collection of paintings belonging to the grandfather of the vendor. With a Certificate of Authenticity obtained from the Comite Nadal, the painting was offered with an estimate of £3–5,000 but fast bidding over the internet and telephone saw it achieve £6,000.

There was a fabulous entry of almost 1,000 lots and the sale was held over two days. An excellent entry of jewellery attracted strong interest in the build up to Christmas with a pair of single stud diamond earrings achieving £1,500, a single strand of amber beads £900 and a half hoop ring set with diamonds £550.

There were some excellent pictures entered with a gouache by Andrew Ellis (1971 – ) making £2,000 and an oil on board Dordreath by W A Gibson making £600. Amongst the

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

collectables, oriental items generated interest from the Far East with a cloisonné planter realising £1,700 and a pair of 18th/19th century hexagonal jardinieres making £1,200.

At the January auction of Antiques and Collectables, another good seasonal entry of 600 lots went under the hammer with excellent entries of quality jewellery, silver and furniture on offer. A white metal ring set with a sapphire achieved £1,100 whilst a sapphire and diamond brooch made £600.

With three sales being staged each month, the Mendip Auction Rooms are gaining in popularity with buyers and sellers and those looking for sound valuation advice can have confidence in the team of valuers and consultants who undertake valuations for a range of purposes.

On viewing and sale days, the Lookout Café is open between 10am and 3pm and serves excellent coffees, light lunches and refreshments.

The Mendip Auction Rooms are now open Monday–Friday, 10am-3pm for valuations or members of the team will be content to visit you at home free of charge.

Contact the auction rooms on 01749 840770 or email enquiries@mendipauctionrooms.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 35

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MENDIP TIMES

Lights, camera, auction – busy year at Clevedon!

AS the daffodils showed their faces in 2019 Clevedon Salerooms’ valuers, director Toby Pinn MRICS and Mark Huddleston, hosted a successful valuation afternoon raising money for the proposed new Congresbury village hall.

Organisers had thoughtfully created two ways to donate to the fund: a valuation event (with donations made to have items valued) and a gifting event, where local residents donated their items to be sold for charity, free of charge, on behalf of the village hall fund. Of course, there was the obligatory coffee and cake for sale as well!

Some of the incredibly generous donations included a 14ct gold pocket watch inset with diamonds and rubies, an Omega silver pocket watch, a George III 1/3 guinea coin, a German oak bracket clock and even two Bobby Jones golf “flicker books”.

The wide variety of items seen ranged

Toby Pinn and Mark Huddleston host a valuation event to raise funds for the proposed Congresbury village hall

Paul Martin and Marc Burridge share a joke during filming of Make me a Dealer

from pre-World War I aviation scrapbooks to a pitchfork!

Summer time saw two television crews at Clevedon Salerooms, first came The Antiques Road Trip, with competing contestants Angus Ashworth and Arusha “Roo” Irvine (and of course their lots!).

No sooner had one crew finished than another was turning up, this time Paul Martin and his new antiques programme Make me a Dealer came to Clevedon. Two sets of budding antiques dealers competed against each other to buy lots at auction, to then sell on in the hope of making a profit.

On a warm summer’s day both spirits and bidding was high.

A new face joined the saleroom staff this year and was thrown in at the deep end!

Henry Michallat was given a royal welcome when a pair of hand-made silk bloomers were consigned for the June 13th Quarterly Specialist Fine Art Sale.

The local vendor’s great aunt was a lady-

in-waiting in London. Servants used to meet and swap items of clothing from their employers and her ancestor was the lucky recipient of these embroidered pants.

Stitched with crowned initials VR (Victoria Regina) and numbered 2 – such intimate items were usually bought in large numbers of perhaps two or three dozen at a time by the royal household and worn in numerical order – the waist measured 112cm and the length 79cm. The bicentenary of Queen Victoria's birth was on May 24th and this royal undergarment sold for £1,000.

With a full programme of sales for 2020 Clevedon Salerooms look forward to providing their continued expertise and service to customers and look forward to welcoming you at the auction centre.

Arusha “Roo” Irvine and Angus Ashworth from the BBC’s The Antiques Road Trip during filming

Valuation day

Sapphire ring sold at Clevedon for £6,600

New employee in 2019, Henry Michallat holds a pair of Queen Victoria’s bloomers that sold for £1,000 PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

LOOKING to the future Clevedon Salerooms will be holding one of their popular free jewellery, watch, silver and gold valuation days at the salerooms on Monday, February 3rd

from 10am-4pm.

No appointment is necessary and the salerooms’ jewellery and watch specialists will be on hand to give free verbal valuations for the March quarterly specialist sale. Simply turn up for a warm welcome.

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ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

Highlights of

2019

£2,700

Slipware Cradle

£4,200

Diamond Ring

£8,500

Ferdinand Preiss Skater

£4,800

Pilkington’s Lustre Vase

18ct Rolex Oyster Perpetual

£10,000

£3,500

Black Forest Cuckoo Clock

Beckstein Piano

19th Century Florentine

£4,800

Cabinet

Free Jewellery & Watch Valuation Day: Monday 3rd February at the Salerooms 10am – 4pm Next Sale: Antiques, Interiors & Jewellery – Thursday 6th February at 10.30am Next Free Valuation Days: 10th and 11th February 9.30 – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm

Tel: 01934 830111

The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT

www.clevedon-salerooms.com

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 37

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MENDIP TIMES

And the beat goes on

“Bank you” very much

Paul is almost fully recovered from his heart condition

WELL-known Midsomer Norton drummer Paul Brimble has called time on the latest chapter in his musical career – to concentrate on public speaking to help to save lives.

Paul’s band The Sneakers played their farewell performance on New Year’s Eve at the Royal British Legion club in Timsbury.

The retired double-glazing salesman is now dedicating his spare time to giving talks about his life in music and his heart condition which nearly cost him his own life. Paul has suffered heart problems since he was 49; he is now 72.

It began with high blood pressure which progressed to angina and then a heart attack in 1999 followed by a stroke in 2011. Now fitted with a second pacemaker, Paul is almost fully recovered and his story led to him being on the front cover of the British Heart Foundation magazine Heart Matters.

Paul puts his recovery down to research work by the BHF and is now fundraising for them by asking for donations to the charity when he give talks about their work. Paul said: “I’m used to travelling all over the area both as a musician and as a salesman, so distance is not a problem; I’m happy to talk to any group about my music and my health issues if it might be able to help someone else.

“We decided to call it a day with The Sneakers in front of a home crowd, but I’ve not called time on my music totally; I hope to carry on playing in some form in the future.”

The Sneakers

You can contact Paul on 07736 177989 or email spirelaine@yahoo.co.uk

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

(l:r) Carrie, from TSB, Nicky and Bev from SWALLOW, and Tina, from TSB

STAFF and customers at the TSB branch in Midsomer Norton have been working extremely hard over the past two years to raise money for SWALLOW, the local charity supporting teenagers and adults with learning

disabilities.

Their efforts resulted in the handing over of a cheque for £3,300 at a party at the branch.

SWALLOW chief executive Bev Craney said: “We are so grateful for all that the staff at TSB have done for us over the two years, it’s not just the money that they have raised, they have also helped out at our events and have helped us to raise awareness of what we do.

“The money will pay for us to employ more people with learning disabilities as well as fund our employment support coordinator who helps our members to gain work. It will make a huge difference, thank you to everyone involved.”

Tina Manley, branch manager, said: “We have loved having SWALLOW as our local charity partner for the past two years. It has been extremely rewarding being able to not only fundraise for this fantastic charity but to support them in their events.

“We would like to thank TSB customers who have bought draw tickets and cakes and helped us to raise money to fund employment for SWALLOW members. We wish SWALLOW well for their future fundraising and would encourage others to create a partnership with them.”

To find out more about SWALLOW, contact Nicky Tew on nickyt@swallowcharity.org or call 01761 414034 or visit www.swallowcharity.org

Car drivers sought for transport scheme

MIDSOMER Norton and Radstock Dial a Ride is appealing for volunteer car drivers to join them; the service is also looking for trustees to join its management committee.

Meanwhile, more than 60 members enjoyed Christmas lunch at the Old Down Inn at Emborough.

Free transport was provided to and from the meal, funded by the annual Christmas draw, donations and tombolas held at various events. Caroline Gregory, from the service, said: “Thanks to all who donated prizes, and we would like to make a special thank you to Mr and Mrs Jeyarajani, proprietors of the Murco Garage in Paulton, for their very generous donation.”

For details about Midsomer Norton and Radstock Dial a Ride call 01761 417504.

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CHARITIES

An arresting sight in Binegar

A POLICEWOMAN, superheroes and snowmen were all amongst the characters who took part in the first Binegar Bonkers Barrow Race around the village in aid of local good causes.

A total of 14 teams in fancy dress pushed wheelbarrows carrying a scarecrow around the lanes. Many were from the village and neighbouring Gurney Slade but the event – expected to now become an annual fixture on the calendar – also attracted teams from further afield.

The race was organised by BAGS – Binegar and Gurney Slade Social Fundraisers and £800 was raised for The Mendip School.

Steve Rawlings, from BAGS, said: “In spite of the drizzle, we were thrilled that people had a good time and the teams

The teams set off from the Horse and Jockey to race around the village

made such a massive effort with their fancy dress costumes and decoration of the wheelbarrows. We were grateful that so many villagers turned out to watch proceedings as well.

“As it was the first running of this event we were bowled over by the enthusiasm of

A port stop rather than a pit stop – time for a breather and a glass of something warming at the home of Alban and Angela Bunting

Never eat yellow snow…

all concerned. Think it proved a great hit and all teams want to enter in 2020! They have already started thinking about themes!

“For us at BAGS, it’s all about people having fun in the local community. If we raise funds for the village needs and local charities, that’s a welcome bonus.”

It’s a fair cop – Nikki from the Horse & Jockey pub in the leading pack

Claire Sparkes and son Noah at the finish – the rest of the team caught up later

Luke Cornish and Justin Draper with the trophy for the fastest team

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 39

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MENDIP TIMES

They weren’t lonely this Christmas

Chris Borrison receives a donation of food from Waitrose in Wells

MEMBERS of Wells Rotary Club and staff at the city’s mental health charity Heads Up hosted a Christmas Day lunch for dozens of people who might otherwise have spent the day alone.

A meeting room at the Heads Up base in South Horrington, was the venue for the lunch with food, drink and decorations donated by local shops and hotels. Local chef Paul Jeffrey and his son, Max, prepared the food.

Jean Moakes of Wells Rotary Club, said: “I’ve had this idea for a while and this year, with the help of some friends from Rotary, we’ve done it!” The event may be repeated this December.

Rotary club president Chris Borrison said: “Thank you to everyone who helped make this such a special Christmas Day by giving their time and by providing the ingredients.”

Lunch underway at Heads Up

PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Panto fans help fight kidney disease

Back (from left): Charlie Lewis, Cherry Lewis as Bad Witch Hazel and Harry Lewis. Front (from left): Christian Lockyer as Muddles and David Titchener as Nurse Hettie Harpic

GENEROUS theatre-goers in central Somerset have donated hundreds of pounds to a south west charity supporting the children of a pantomime “baddie”.

Following ten performances of Sleeping Beauty at Strode Theatre in Street, over Christmas and New Year, audiences donated almost £1,500 for the Bristol Area Kidney Patients Association.

The charity was chosen after helping the 27-year-old son of Cherry Lewis, the panto’s Bad Witch Hazel. In 2014, her son Charlie was diagnosed with Stage Four chronic kidney disease.

Five years after taking medications to slow down the deterioration of his kidneys and being warned the disease was incurable, his brother, 29-year-old Harry, finally passed all the tests to donate one of his kidneys.

Following the operation in 2019, both brothers, who are from Glastonbury, are now fully recovered, and fit and healthy.

The Glastonbury and Street Comedy Musical Society, which staged Sleeping Beauty, decided to offer its support to BAKPA by holding post-performance collections. The charity aims to provide treatment, welfare and comfort for kidney patients. It has so far been able to provide funding for research, refurbishment of wards, provision of specialist equipment and providing accommodation for patients and their families.

Charlie said: “I want to say a huge thanks to everyone who donated to our collection after each panto and helped support this brilliant charity. I know they will be delighted with how much our audiences have raised.”

For details about BAKPA, visit: www.bakpa.org.uk

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CHARITIES

Keep on running – but not me!

HUNDREDS of people joined police officer Rachel Clarke on the final mile of her year-long daily run to raise money for the Frome-based charity We Hear You. The Frome sergeant’s efforts during 2019 have raised £20,000 for WHY, a cancer counselling organisation.

Rachel told the crowd at Frome Rugby Club, which hosted the final mile, that her running days were over but urged people to continue to support WHY – including wearing their distinctive t-shirts at other events.

Her original aim was to raise £2,500 for the charity which was celebrating its 25th anniversary.

A jubilant Rachel after her year-long, mile-a-day fundraiser

Just some of the hundreds of runners and walkers at Frome rugby club

After presenting a cheque to the WHY team at their offices in Frome – where Kym Whisstock, the daughter of charity founder, the late Jill Miller – was also present, Rachel posted on Facebook: “Ending this phenomenal challenge on an absolute high, what an honour to present the huge cheque to the WHY team in the company of Kym Whisstock, Jill Miller’s daughter.

“I am truly overwhelmed and humbled by your continued support, your continued generosity and your continued belief in what I do and what I ask others to do.

Work hard, be kind and amazing things will happen.

“For Kym’s mum and my mum, in their memory forever.” l Rachel is planning to organise organise another community world record attempt in June.

Brothers Matthew, aged seven, and Oliver, 11, have been keen supporters

Keep wearing the t-shirts! Runners during the warm-up

Rachel presents a cheque for £20,000 to the WHY team

They’ll grow into them…

For details about WHY, visit: www.wehearyou.org.uk MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 41

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Helping the homeless

THE annual Christmas raffle for Laney and Mark Sandon James’s homeless project raised a record-breaking amount of almost £4,000 this year.

The Paulton couple are long-time supporters of the homeless in Bath and took 34 Christmas gifts to homeless people in the city. The money will also help them continue their work for the rest of the year.

There were 223 prizes to be won at the raffle, held at the Centurion Hotel, including a holiday in Florida and a hot air balloon ride.

Local councillor, Liz Hardman, said: “Laney and Mark don’t just help the homeless at Christmas, but all year round. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude for making people’s lives better.”

Details: Facebook: Laney and Mark’s Homeless Project

Blanket appeal

A GROUP of ten Shepton Mallet U3A knitters, led by Pam Mitchell, have recently made 14 large blankets which will be donated to children in hospital in the Bath and Wells area and the children's hospice in the Wiltshire.

The knitters responded to the request of Linda McGregor, Project Linus UK area co-ordinator for Bath and Wells. The project delivers around 3,500 quilts and blankets to sick, disabled or disadvantaged children across the UK each month and always tries to deliver quilts and blankets to children who are local to the makers.

There was a request for large blankets in darker colours that would appeal to older boys and the group of dedicated knitters,

Young swimmers support new charity

BABY and child swim school Puddle Ducks Bristol and Bath have raised £1,026.60 in support of new charity Gympanzees, following their annual charity PJ Week, where little swimmers and their parents wear their pyjamas in the pool to raise money for charity.

Gympanzees is an award-winning social enterprise and their vision is that every disabled child and young person has access to play, friendship and exercise. The money raised will support holiday pop-up sessions as they work towards opening the UK’s first permanent and fully inclusive leisure facilities in Bristol.

The facilities will cater for the play, exercise and social needs of the 58,000 disabled children and young people within one hour of Bristol.

Sarah Austin, founder of Puddle Ducks Bristol and Bath, said: “We all really enjoy supporting local charities through our PJ Week and have raised over £10,000 over the past eight years. Organisations like Gympanzees, who work with children and families, are particularly close to our hearts because young people are at the centre of what we do every day.”

She’s pictured (right) with Fran Garland and Stephanie Wheen from Gympanzees.

Details: 0117 9717165 or visit https://www.puddleducks.com/bb

who meet monthly in Evercreech, responded to this, producing all these blankets in a ten week period.

Details: www.projectlinusuk.org.uk or linda.somerset@gmail.com

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Have a ball – and help save lives

Nigel Game and Jan Witt

A TRIBUTE fund set up in the name of Chew Stoke resident Lindsay Game has raised over £25,000 for the planned Dyson Cancer Centre at Bath’s Royal United Hospital.

Lindsay was diagnosed with breast cancer 31 years ago. While receiving treatment at the RUH, she became a supporter of the hospital’s charity The Forever Friends Appeal and decided to start fundraising for the RUH Cancer Care campaign.

In 2015, the cancer returned and she was told it was untreatable.

She died in 2017. Her husband Nigel wanted to continue raising funds for The Forever Friends Appeal and set up the Lindsay Game Forever Fund to keep her memory alive.

He said: “Lindsay and I always wanted to support the RUH in all its good work. Supporting The Forever Friends Appeal was foremost in our minds. Anything that can make life easier for cancer sufferers must be a worthwhile gesture of goodwill.

“Everyone who Lindsay met was compassionate, reassuring her that she was receiving the best treatment available. I cannot thank the hospital enough.”

Jan Witt from The Forever Friends Appeal said: “We were delighted to be able to thank and acknowledge the amazing fundraising efforts by presenting Nigel with a Senior Family Partner Award under our charity’s partnership scheme.”

Details: www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk/tribute-funds or email Jan on Jan.Witt@nhs.net or call: 01225 825819

MAKE a date for Saturday, February 15th when Gerald Creed of Clutton based Bugler Coaches holds “Bath's best ball of the year” at the 4-star Apex Hotel.

The Big Hearted Valentine's Ball will raise money to buy much-needed equipment for The Bristol Heart Institute where most patients from The West Country who need heart surgery are treated. Gerald himself was treated there.

Welcome drinks await in the Atrium before dinner is served in the Ballroom Suite where Professor Raimondo Ascione, one of the UK's leading heart surgeons and patron of The Big Hearted Charity, will explain how the ball will help to save lives at The BHI, the South West's “Centre of Excellence” for heart surgery.

Last year’s ball raised enough to buy a state-of-the art fibre optic intubating laryngoscope for the intensive care unit of the BHI. After dinner it's time for entertainment with Gerri Waite featuring Celine Dion's greatest hits, TV and cruise comedian, Tank Sherman, then the unique sound of Freddie Mercury as the No 1 UK Queen Band, “Pure Queen” take the stage.

Tickets cost £75 and include welcome drinks, threecourse dinner, coffee and a fabulous night of entertainment.

Remembering loved ones HUNDREDS of people attended Weston Hospicecare’s Light Up A Life services in Weston and Burnham, raising nearly £12,000.

Light Up A Life is an annual event organised by the hospice to support people who are bereaved and remembering a loved one at Christmas.

“And thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers and to everyone who supported us.”

Dedications from the services are currently on display at the hospice’s base JacksonBarstow House and supporters who made a lantern dedication can now collect their label to take home.

Sister Sing in action

Details: www.bigheartedvalentinesball.co.uk

(Photograph courtesy of Weston Hospicecare)

Husband raises £25,000 in his wife’s memory

CHARITIES

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Time is Precious – now it’s your turn

Charity fun day

CHELWOOD Bridge Rotary Club will hold a charity It's a Knockout challenge at Farrington Gurney Memorial Hall, on Saturday, June 20th.

They are inviting teams of ten, minimum age 18, and hope a minimum of 12 teams will take part. The closing date for registration is Tuesday, March 31st.

They say this is a golden opportunity to take part in a great fun day, ideal for team building, while raising money for charity.

It will raise funds for Children’s Hospice South West, Rotary charities or charities chosen by the teams themselves.

Details: www.chelwoodbridgerotary.com

Mendip Staff with CLIC Sargent representative, Jenny Mullen

STAFF at Mendip District Council have raised more than £4,000 for their 2019 charity of the year, CLIC Sargent.

The cash was raised through staff-led initiatives such as bake sales, sweepstakes and dress down days, as well as sponsored activities like the Prudential RideLondon 100 Mile Challenge, Mells 10k and the team-based obstacle course and mud run, Tough Mudder.

Stuart Brown, the council’s chief executive, said: “What fantastic fundraising for such an important charity. It’s been a record-breaking year and wonderful to witness. The dedicated staff at Mendip should be very proud of their achievements.”

Jenny Mullen, CLIC Sargent fundraising manager, said: “We are so grateful to the Mendip District Council staff for raising such a fantastic amount in support of children and young people with cancer, and their families.

“The money raised could pay for a family to stay at a CLIC Sargent ‘Home from Home’ for four months, providing free accommodation close to where their child is receiving cancer treatment.”

Every year, council staff nominate a new cause to support for 12 months. The chosen charity for 2020 is Time is Precious, set up by Neil and Nicky Halford, of Coleford, in memory of their son Ben who died from cancer in 2010. The charity aims to create a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for children and their families in hospital or at home.

For details about Time is Precious, visit: https://timeisprecious.org/

New support group in Frome

DOROTHY House Hospice Care have teamed up with cancer counselling charity We Hear You (WHY) to offer The Coffee Connection, a new drop-in group for anyone affected or bereaved by a life-limiting illness.

The group meets every Tuesday at the Cheese and Grain in Frome from 10am to 12pm and provides an opportunity for people to come together and share their experiences, supported by trained volunteers and staff members from both charities.

This group forms part of the activities of the East Mendip Alliance, a strategic partnership that brings together relevant voluntary and statutory organisations in the region. The alliance

PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Hospice needs volunteers

WESTON Hospicecare is looking for more volunteers. It reckons their time is worth over £1million a year to the hospice and they play a vital role across the organisation giving support in shops, helping the fundraising team and by supporting patients.

Maria Beaton, who is the hospice’s volunteer and training manager, says the hospice simply could not run without the essential support from volunteers.

She said: “All of our volunteers have their own piece of the jigsaw which keeps the charity going. But we now need more people to come and help us.

“Currently we have people who volunteer with us to enrich social needs, some do it to gain experience and others help us because they have an emotional connection with the work of the hospice.

“Whatever the motivation, we always need people to kindly give their time to help us with all sorts of voluntary roles.”

Details: email volunteer@westonhospicecare.org.uk or call 01934 423975

was formed to facilitate effective partnership working to ensure that everyone in the region has access to high-quality palliative and end-of-life care.

Melissa Hillier, director at WHY, said: “We know it can be daunting to attend a new group by yourself, so please feel free to bring a friend or family member with you – you can find us by our table signs.

“Our volunteers will make you feel welcome and buy you a coffee. Many thanks to the Cheese and Grain for all their support with the group, we’re delighted with how well it’s going so far.”

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Body art reaches new lights

Photography by Mark Adler

Starlove, painted

by Shanna

CHARITIES

ULTRA violet paint brought a whole new dimension to the annual charity Glastonbury Body Art Festival.

Billed as The Realm of Pyschedelia, around 30 models from across the country took part in the show, raising £1,000 for the Glastonbury-based Children’s World charity.

Artists took at least four hours to let their imaginations run wild – with spectacular results.

Just some of the 30 models in Glastonbury Town Hall

Fantasy land on a model’s back

Taking a break – the painting sessions lasted around four hours

Angela and Star

Sofie, painted by Helen

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Drama and creative arts at Wells WELLS Cathedral School aims to inspire a lifelong passion for the creative arts by giving pupils the confidence and opportunities to be freely expressive, inventive and imaginative in a diverse landscape of creativity.

Their integrated approach to teaching art, photography, drama, dance and music allows for creativity and builds selfreliance and curiosity by giving pupils the opportunity for self-expression through risk-taking, teamwork, resourcefulness and reflection.

In Years 7-9, pupils are exposed to a diverse range of artistic knowledge, skills, techniques, materials and disciplines through the Creative Arts Programme.

They can then make informed choices as to what areas they would like to pursue in their GCSE and A-level studies or as a hobby.

Their curriculum is complemented by workshops from visiting artists, integrated arts workshop days, trips to places like

the RSC at Stratford-upon-Avon, The Globe, Tate Modern and the National Portrait Gallery for both workshops and performances.

Their varied programme of drama opportunities ranges from the classics to the eclectic. They often take their shows out to professional venues and have built a reputation for the strength and ambition of their productions through critical acclaim.

Every pupil has the opportunity to take part in a large-scale production, or more informally, if they prefer, in events like their House Drama Competition.

Recent Senior School shows include this winter’s hit musical Grease (Strode Theatre), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Strode Theatre) and Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful (Cedars Hall).

Their production of Les Misérables was even attended by its original producer, Sir Cameron Mackintosh. In the Lower School pupils have recently staged an

outdoor performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (De Salis Gardens), High School Musical (Cedars Hall) and Peter Pan and Wendy (Wells Little Theatre).

As a result of their approach to creative arts, they believe that their pupils achieve success across the arts, whether in their quality of art or performance, or in the excellent results achieved in their Trinity or A-level qualifications.

Internationally renowned painter and Wells parent, John Dyer, says: “Children at Wells are enthusiastic, creative, and open minded. They achieve amazing results.”

Details: contact the admissions team on 01749 834441 or at admissions@wells.cathedral.school or visit http://wells.cathedral.school

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Fun, exciting and curious – exploring with Millfield minis groups!

MILLFIELD Minis Parent & Toddler Group, which takes place every weekday during term time from 10–11.30am, provides an exciting and varied activity programme for your child.

The group is run by friendly and qualified Millfield pre-prep staff, who make sure that each week brings a new experience for their minis. The activities are aimed towards helping to develop the minis’ creative thinking, confidence and ability to make new friends, in a safe and happy environment.

Children get the opportunity to explore the woods in their

EDUCATION

amazing forest school, make a splash in their indoor heated 25m swimming pool, get creative with art and clay, visit their stables to see the Shetland ponies, enjoy sensory play activities and story time.

Delicious, healthy snacks are available to fuel your child after their busy morning activity.

Millfield Minis Community Sports Clubs are a fun and sociable way to introduce sports to children. Their range of groups includes football and tennis sessions, which are open to all children in the local area from ages two-nine.

The groups focus on the fundamentals of the sport, whilst developing children’s co-ordination, teamwork, agility and balance. All of their clubs are run at Millfield Prep School during term times by expert coaches.

Details: millfieldschool.com/minis or call 01458 832446

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EVENTS

Wassail at the abbey

The procession makes its way past the carp pond on its way round the orchard

MORE than 100 people enjoyed wassailing the orchard in the grounds of Glastonbury Abbey.

Led by The Ash grove of Druids, wassailers processed around the boundary of the orchard before blessing the “mother” tree.

People were also invited to hug their own tree after placing toast soaked in cider in the branches.

Unlike other wassails, no shotguns were fired to ward off evil spirits; instead, the druids preferred drums and human voices.

Tree hugging. No, they hadn’t drunk all the cider

A time to celebrate

Time to wassail – members of The Ash druid grove led the ceremony

PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Placing toast in one of the apple trees

Singing around the trees

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WIldlIfE

Sometimes you just have to look deeper

FOR Christmas 2019 we took the family to Norway, to a place called Trysil, just two hours by car north of Oslo.

Holed up in an isolated lodge near a frozen lake we were surrounded by a forest covered in snow to a depth that walking into it away from the paths was

By CHRIS virtually impossible.

SPERRING During our eight days there I saw few MBE birds or mammals, as of course the diversity of birds that breed here would be much further south at this time, with some of them like blackbird, song thrush and even robin overwintering in South West England.

Despite this I sensed a landscape not at winter rest but very much alive and thriving. Indeed, as we walked the ski trials which abound the area, we found lots of mountain hare evidence. This hare, sometimes called the Tundra or Blue Hare, turns white during the winter so blends perfectly into the winter landscape, but tracks left in the snow were everywhere.

Here we also encountered the first tracks of a predator, and a familiar track for us, that of the red fox. So, already without seeing any mammals we were starting to build up a picture of a landscape that looked cold and lifeless but in fact the opposite was true.

A little further on and now on a straight track leading towards the nearest village we encountered much larger tracks. These were in a perfect line, four toes and triangular pad, looking like a very large dog.

This was the apex predator of these forests, the wolf. As we followed the wolf tracks, we noted occasional wild boar tracks and what was interesting was that the wild boar were travelling along these tracks as well, then suddenly their tracks would head off into the deep snow of the forest.

Clearly this was a good strategy as of course the predator

Wolf tracks in deep snow

who was following them was able to move swiftly along the hard-packed snow of the road, but would be hampered in gaining any speed for a chase in deep snow.

The local people told us of the many moose in the area, so we kept our eyes open for this giant herbivore, yet we saw nothing of them bar a few tracks where they had obviously crossed a road, or been browsing on the scrub and trees.

Once again, this potential wolf prey was using its brain, as a local farmer told us: “Oh moose, yes lots of moose but when the snow’s this deep they live in the middle of the forest where wolves don’t go.”

We did see and hear birds, including pygmy owl and boreal owl, as well as great spotted woodpeckers using holes in telegraph poles to hold pine cones they were drilling to pieces. Hooded crow and raven were numerous, as were flocks of the stunning northern bullfinch. Occasional finches and northern nuthatches flitted around the forests, but none were plentiful.

In the towns small birds were numerous as food is plentiful and they are clearly able to survive the winter here only because of the presence of people.

The local people were so incredibly friendly and I got talking to one farmer about wildlife and he mentioned that there are two predators in the area that I perhaps had not thought of, the European brown bear and wolverine.

Interestingly, the wolverine is one of the rarest mammals in Europe, but in this area they are recording an increase in the population.

Sometimes when we walk out, even locally, it’s not always about what we see and what we hear; sometimes you just have to look deeper to find that rich wildlife landscape hidden and just waiting to be found.

So, as we left our -16°C landscape and headed back to +15°C England, I wondered just how long ago Mendip would have seen animals like this? Over to you archaeologists…

Three-year-old naturalist Zac with first experience of -16°C and snow

Hooded crow in Norway

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

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Port and peak with some amazing views

A SHORT circle but one with surprising and hidden history that takes the walker on the flat by moorland and a river and then climbs up onto Crook Peak, the only pointed hill on Mendip, from where the views are amazing. To finish there is a beautiful gentle downhill section on a ridge with Wavering Down on one side and the Levels on the other.

Try to choose a good clear dry day, if possible!

I have designed the walk to be fairly good underfoot. Obviously after a lot of rain there will be wet sections, particularly near the start alongside the old River Axe as we follow the line of an ancient highway, but the rest should not be muddy. So our circle begins on the flat but then comes a steep uphill section onto the hill below Crook Peak – you can get up onto the Peak itself if you wish, which doesn’t require much more effort. Wear good boots with grip as going up to Crook Peak on the stony path may be slippery and a walking pole could be handy.

PARK: On the west-east road that runs from the A38 at Cross, south of Sidcot, and goes along below the hill towards Loxton. Go through Cross and after about 1.8 miles in all, find a large stony lay-by on the left just before a sign saying “Parish of Loxton, the Webbington”. Opposite is a NT sign for Crook Peak. A few yards further along the road is a smaller lay-by if the first one is full.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

START: Turn right from the lay-by and walk back along the road for about four minutes. Opposite a terrace of cottages, find a stile down steps on the right.

Cross and go straight down the field and over a stile onto a lane at Rackley.

1. RACKLEY Near this very rural spot there was the ancient port of Rackley. No sign of the wharf still remains or of the many cottages that were here. It was from this once busy inland port that the Romans shipped lead ingots from Charterhouse and Priddy to Uphill and overseas.

Rackley is actually at a point where the old Axe meets the Cheddar Yeo and in former days navigation to here was made possible because the river was tidal. The hills sloping up to Crook Peak provided a good landing place.

Iron, fish and salt were brought in, the outgoing cargoes being chiefly of lead.

There is evidence that in the 15th century stones were landed at Rackley and hauled to Wells; apparently at one time it served as the port of the cathedral city.

Turn right on the lane which soon becomes a footpath, but is following the route of the old road which served the port of Rackley. Go over a stile by a gate and into a field and follow the left hedge line through this large field and other fields always in the same direction through Bristol Gates, across a track, through kissing gates for about half a mile. On the gatepost at the

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WALKING Le

second Bristol Gate notice a horseshoe memorial to a much-loved horse, Sasha.

You come alongside the Axe for a while down on your left and up right are the lower slopes of Crook Peak. Eventually come onto a path that leads past a huge badger sett and comes to a harder surfaced section of the old Rackley route. Follow this on past homes and all the way to the Cross-Loxton road.

2. BARTON ROAD Cross straight over into Barton Road.

Here you have joined the West Mendip Way, which goes along below Crook Peak with the M5 making itself known down on the left in the Lox Yeo Valley.

Over on the other side is the village of Loxton. Follow the road which carries little traffic for half a mile, ignoring a footpath, until you reach a metal communications tower.

3. WEST MENDIP WAY Opposite this find the West Mendip Way sign and go right. Follow it gently

OS Explorer 153 Weston-super-Mare & Bleadon Hill, grid ref: 392 551 3.5 miles, about 2 – 2.25 hours walking

up to the right and then it bends left and continues in the direction of Shute Shelve. Here comes the steep and stony section. Eventually after about a third of a mile come up to the grassy top with Crook Peak up on the right.

Continue on to a signpost and a waymarked single post. Here begins the remarkable dry stone wall which continues on up Wavering Down and marks the county boundary. Go on a few yards to another post and turn right on the grassy track.

4. CROOK PEAK This takes you alongside Crook Peak

itself up on the right with its rocky limestone top at 628 feet. If you want to go up to the top, which isn’t much further, find the grassy swathe on the right which is the easiest route. On a fine day there are remarkable views but it can be windy and cold.

Crook Peak is one of the most important and distinctive features of the Somerset landscape. It is believed to have been a beacon site, set up to signal the threatened arrival of the Spanish Armada to the West Country coast. For many people however, it’s that distinctive, conical hill that they hurry past on the M5.

To continue, carry on along the path you were on, passing the Peak on your right and gradually you find you are on a grassy ridge and bear slightly left down this. As you proceed, Wavering Down is over on your left, the village of Compton Bishop nestling below and the Levels stretching away to your right. Glastonbury Tor should be easily seen ahead and to the right and, of course, Brent Knoll is very evident. It is the most beautiful section of this circle in my view.

5. FENCE Carry on down all the way to wooden fencing across the path. Go through and immediately turn right on a path which soon parallels the road and then comes out opposite your parking lay-by.

Hope you have enjoyed this short, varied and interesting walk.

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OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s diary

IT’S nostalgia time and I remember a very successful band in the early 1990s, fronted by a Glaswegian guy called Marti Pellow.

Yes, it was Wet, Wet, Wet. Well wet, wet, wet it has been and I think I have had quite enough rain now thank you very much!

Then I think of those in Australia, who With LES would dearly love this weather to control DAVIES MBE the wild fires.

I was stood on the southern side of Crook Peak this week looking at the old field systems that lay stretched out below. If there is one thing standing water can do, it shows every hollow in the ground and it was certainly doing as such on this day.

These old field systems were developed to overcome the problems of wet ground. After all, the Somerset moors have coped with these wet conditions for centuries through ridge and furrow management. Such methods go back to the medieval open field system that lasted until the enclosures of the late 1700s and early 1800s. Some systems such as these have lasted even longer.

They were a raised bed style of land drainage, with each ridge being formed through continual ploughing towards the middle. This in turn created a furrow or “gutter” where the water drained away. These gutters linked into others and channelled the water into the ditches and rhynes that moved it away.

Over time the cleaning of such gutters has ceased, they have silted up and are no longer doing the job for which they were created. Only when the water table rises, such as it has now, will these ancient landscape features be so easily seen.

You cannot have helped but notice that something has happened in Burrington Combe! What looks to be the work of a tornado with a chain saw is in fact a masterpiece of joinedup-thinking. The trees that have been felled were all suffering from ash die back, a disease that we are now becoming more aware of.

Yet again, this is an imported problem that is thought to have come into the country through contaminated trees from abroad. It is now running riot in the countryside and threatens the native ash we have for so long been taking for granted.

Shoots and branches will literally die back and make the tree brittle. Add some high wind into the equation and you have the recipe for falling timber.

With this in mind a survey was carried out on the ash trees within the combe, finding high levels of the disease. Such infected trees, that if they fell would reach the road, were marked for removal. Speed was of the essence, as it had to be linked into the road closure obtained by the local authority for re-surfacing the road.

It was a difficult juggling act when there are several contractors at work, all with differing priorities. Clearances from Natural England and the Forestry Commission were also needed, all of which were “fast tracked” to meet the deadlines.

All in all, great credit is due to those individuals and organisations who worked together to make it happen. You see this is what happens when people talk to one another!

The clear-up operation is now underway and it will look a

little rough until this has been completed. The extra light reaching the ground will encourage new growth and give a more open feel to the area. Shoot re-growth from the cut stumps will however attract the deer population in the spring, as it will be a tasty alternative.

This in turn will require extra awareness when driving through the combe, especially at night when they tend to rush across the road. Will the new road surface encourage faster speeds – I hope not!

I am busy making sure that there will be a good crop of apples for the coming year with my wassails, tree planting schemes and orchard pruning courses. I’m not the only one who is striving to fend off the bad influences within the orchards.

Wassails are now more popular than they have ever been and I am so very pleased to be a part of it. For those who have never come across this West Country tradition, it was a pagan insurance policy to appease the good spirits and drive away those bad influences that may be lurking amongst the trees.

By the time you read this, most of the ceremonies will have passed. “Well that’s just dandy,” I hear you cry! “Wait” I reply, Godney will be having theirs on Monday, February 10th, so there is still time. Make contact with the Sheppey Inn and they should be able to help point you in the right direction.

Following hot on the heels of Godney’s wassail is the Mendip Ploughing Society film night being held at the Wellsway, West Harptree BS40 6EJ on Wednesday, February 12th. Now before you get too excited and think that you are off to a screening of yet another Hollywood blockbuster, let me explain.

This is the video footage taken at the 150th ploughing match back in September and will include some of the film taken at the 100th match, even further back! Mendip ploughing match is fast becoming the main rural event on Mendip. A good country day out and somewhere to meet and socialise.

Many more people are becoming interested in what happens on the day, so the society is inviting you along, member or not, to enjoy an evening out. There is a small charge of £10 per seat, which will include your finger buffet and I’m told the bar will be open! If you are interested, please book by sending to: cjogbone@btinternet.com by Monday, February 10th.

This month’s photo is indeed a rarity! Captured on film through guile and stealth, was this creature found lurking in a Somerset orchard? Good spirit or bad? I leave it to you.

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

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MENDIP TIMES

I wandered lonely as a cloud . . .

The Wordsworth poem was inspired by an event on April 15th 1802, when William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy came across a "long belt" of daffodils on the shores of Ullswater in the Lake District, near where they lived at the time.

Perhaps climate change really has had a With MARY dramatic effect as these days most daffodils PAYNE MBE are long gone over by mid-April. What they saw was probably our native daffodil (Narcissus pseudonarcissus) also known as the Lent Lily, which has a pure yellow trumpet and paler perianth segments, as opposed to the Tenby daffodil (N. obvallaris) more commonly found in Wales, which is yellow throughout.

The botanical name, Narcissus, comes from Greek mythology.

Narcissus was a beautiful youth who fell in love with his reflection in a pool. Narcissus also gave his name to the personality disorder narcissism.

When is a daffodil a narcissus? The answer is simple, all daffodils are narcissus. They belong to the same family as the popular Christmas bulb Amaryllis. The seed pods develop behind the petals. The tulip, on the other hand, belongs to the lily family and the seed pod develops inside the flower.

Although daffodils and tulips are often grown together, they are very different beasts and so respond to our climate in different ways. The daffodil comes from N and S europe and will grow in light shade or open grassland, in soil that stays moist for most of the year.

The tulip, whose name is derived from the old Persian word for turban, heralds from Iran, Turkey and Iraq where they grow in exposed sites with greater seasonal temperature fluctuations, very dry summers and perfect drainage. It is for this reason that tulips, unlike narcissus, cannot be relied upon to give a good repeat performance year after year.

There are over 13,000 distinct varieties of narcissus and this number increases every year. These are classified into 13 groups based on the shape of the flower. The commonest are the traditional trumpet shaped flowers characterised by the variety King Alfred. These tend to have large flowers and are tall and thus prone to falling over when wet.

A group growing in popularity are those derived from Narcissus cyclamineus, a diminutive species, in which the trumpet is narrow and the perianth segments (“petals”) are strongly reflexed. These have been hybridised with the trumpet daffodils to create the Cyclamineus Group with shorter stems and smaller flowers, but still with the characteristic swept back perianth.

This group make excellent garden plants. February Gold is pure yellow, Jack Snipe has a yellow trumpet and paler reflexed “petals”, while my favourite Jetfire sports a bright orange trumpet and yellow “petals”.

Bags of mixed bulbs are often sold for naturalising in grassland but beware. If you are planting in grass that is to be returned to lawn for the summer season, then I strongly recommend that you avoid mixtures. Some will flower early and some late thus one must wait until the late ones have finished and then allow six-eight weeks for the foliage to replenish the bulb before cutting down.

This can be as late as early July leaving a rather messy lawn.

Choose early and mid-season varieties so the grass can be returned to good condition in May. Sadly, our native species that Wordsworth enjoyed, and the Tenby daffodil, are not easy to PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Narcissus 'W P Milner'

establish and a planting may take several years to start to bulk up and look good.

Generally, narcissus are sound performers in the garden and clumps will bulk up giving many years of pleasure. eventually the clump may cease to flower well or not at all, and the cause needs to be investigated. Lift the clump immediately after flowering and cut a bulb from top to bottom, as if halving an onion.

Inspect the halves carefully to see if there is a grub, or several grubs, in the centre. This is the large/small narcissus fly which is making its presence felt. It eats out the centre of the bulb thus consuming next year’s flower. Daughter bulbs develop around the side but are not mature enough to have flowers, just leaves. If there are no grubs, pull the clump into several pieces and replant each giving more space.

The earliest flowering daffodil is a pure yellow variety called Rijnveld’s early Sensation which may bloom before Christmas in Cornwall. This makes a suitable alternative to our finicky native species. The last to flower is the Pheasant eye narcissus, a white bloom with a small yellow/red eye, which blooms in April/May along with the fritillaries.

The most popular variety these days is the dwarf, golden yellow, multiheaded Tete-a-tete. Deer are reputed to avoid eating daffodils, but I am not too sure if they have been told this! They certainly enjoy tulip flowers.

Finally, daffodils are very good companions in the garden, but never in a vase with other flowers. Their mucilaginous sap is to blame and causes other flowers to wilt prematurely. The sap contains sugars which encourage the growth of algae and bacteria which block the water uptake system. however, Dutch iris blooms appear to be immune to the daffodil’s evil sap and they can thrive in a vase together.

Some snowdrop gardens open – Vine house, henbury on Sunday, February 2nd which will open for the National Gardens Scheme between 1.30-4pm along with Rock house, elberton from 11am-4pm. The Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival is on February 15th and 16th with a number of events and plants sales.

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FEBRUARY GARDEN TIPS

• Re-pot perennials and shrubs that are growing in pots. Pot up lily, nerine and other summer flowering bulbs ready to slot into gaps in the border after the risk of frost is over.

• Sow geraniums, fibrous rooted begonias, antirrhinum, lobelia, petunias and impatiens. Sow sweet peas in long tube pots or Rootrainers. caryopteris, perovskia, hardy fuchsias, lavatera and hydrangea paniculata types hard now. Mahonia Charity can be trimmed back a little now. Trees that have lost their leaves can be pruned now.

• Put plenty of well-rotted manure around your roses.

• Treat delphiniums, gypsophila, hosta, lupins, clematis and other slug and snail prone plants with a slug and snail killer now. Lots of slugs live in the soil and will feed on the new emerging shoots.

• When snowdrops finish flowering lift crowded clumps, carefully divide them and replant immediately. Snowdrops hate to have their roots broken so be careful.

• Keep a sharp watch for greenfly as they often appear inside this month.

• Sow early lettuce seed under protection. Plant out later for really early crops. Vaila-Winter Gem or Tom Thumb are good tasty varieties to grow now.

• Don’t forget to buy seed potatoes and set them up to shoot (chitting). early varieties like Rocket will benefit but later varieties will yield better too if encouraged into growth before planting out. If you have room for only one variety, grow Charlotte.

GARDENING

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ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES – MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 55

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MENDIP TIMES

Scandinavian design

VARDe have a burning passion for creating beautiful wood burning stoves that epitomise the fine craftsmanship and design flair that runs throughout their Danish heritage. The Samso is based on a convection system that introduces cold air at the bottom of the stove and then releases heated air at the top. This special system promotes good air circulation and increases heat into the room.

In addition to this, a Cleanburn system introduces pre-heated combustion air into the top of the firebox which increases heat output and results in fewer soot particles going up the chimney.

This helps to achieve a nominal heat output of 5kW so it's ideal for standard sized rooms and additional ventilation (air-vent) is not normally required. The total heat output range of the Samso is 37kW. The Samso's stylish and practical design has all the hallmarks of Nordic innovation, combining clever engineering with contemporary aesthetics to create an eye-catching centrepiece with remarkable heating performance.

Despite its innovative features, Scandinavian heritage and striking looks, the Varde Samso is offered at a price much lower than other premium brands. It is also suitable for burning wood logs in smokeless areas when fitted with the optional Smoke Control DeFRA Kit. You can see it at Weston Garden Machinery.

Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists

EGO LM1701E 42CM INCLUDES 2.5AH BATTERY AND STANDARD CHARGER Telescopic handles Push propelled Battery charge level is visible Grass Box 'Full' indicator Hard Top and Bottom Grass Box 55 litre Grass Box Two position handle height + 'park' for grass box emptying Centralised height adjustment 8 positions (25mm – 80mm) Single Skin

STOVAX VARDE SAMSO Varde have a burning passion for creating beautiful wood burning stoves that epitomise the fine craftsmanship and design flair that runs throughout their Danish heritage.

Behind Shell Garage Winterstoke Road, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS23 2YS

Tel: 01934 626093/813261 www.westongarden.co.uk PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH

Opening your garden for the NGS

The National Gardens Scheme (NGS) is always looking for gardens of quality, character and interest with owners willing to open them to the public to raise money for charity.

Would you like to help raise much-needed money for charity? have you thought that your garden looks interesting enough for other people wanting to visit your garden?

Would you like to meet fellow like-minded gardeners?

If the answer to these questions is “yes”, then why not open your garden for the NGS and help raise money for important caring charities at the same time?

The size of your garden is not critical; some are small town gardens and some are large country gardens. Your garden may be a colourful cottage garden, an immaculate formal garden, a wildlife friendly haven or even a welltended allotment.

Most gardens open individually on chosen dates. Some smaller gardens open in pairs or as a group in a village.

Many gardens also offer “by arrangement” visits, giving garden clubs and tour groups an opportunity to visit at a convenient time.

Garden owners who decide to open their garden for charity are normally very proud of their garden and like them to look at their best. Any potential new garden needs to contact the NGS through the local county organiser, who will then assess and hopefully approve the garden for opening during the year prior to the first opening.

What is it like opening your garden for the first time for the NGS? Wracked nerves, joy and extreme reward are the three ways to describe the experience. As the years of opening go on the “new” garden owner becomes an “old” hand and makes many lasting friendships with other NGS garden openers with whom you can share your passion and experiences. each year more than 3,800 NGS gardens across england and Wales welcome over 750,000 visitors. Since its inception in 1927 the NGS has given £58 million to charities. In 2019, it donated £3 million, and over 80p in every £1 raised at the open gardens goes straight to their beneficiaries. You can read about the charities they supported in 2019 by visiting https://ngs.org.uk/who-weare/beneficiaries/ If you would like to become part of this happy group of Somerset gardeners and are interested in opening your garden for charity get in contact with the Somerset county organiser, Laura howard 01460 282911 or email laura.howard@ngs.org.uk Details: https://ngs.org.uk/get-involved/open-your-garden/

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GARDENING Timberwork Buildings

Henton celebrates

Bespoke buildings to suit you

FoUNDeR members Angela Marsh and Nigel Cox are pictured cutting the cake at henton and District Gardening Club’s 20th anniversary celebration. on Wednesday, March 18th, Matthew Biggs 7pm for 7.30pm, they will welcome Matthew Biggs, a familiar voice and regular member of BBC’s Gardeners’ Question Time panel.

Matthew is a well-respected contributor and advisor to leading magazines and will be talking about “The Wonder of Plants”. Tickets are £12 including coffee.

We specialise in the manufacture of quality standard and bespoke garden buildings to suit your individual needs including:-

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GARDEN SHEDS

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PLAYHOUSES

Let our dedicated team assist you in your choice whatever your budget . . . Full design, installation and delivery service available – customise your shed to suit your needs We also do: Chicken Houses • Dog Kennels • Bin & Log Stores

YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT US AND SEE OUR SHOW MODELS – OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK THE TIMBERYARD • SHUTE SHELVE • CROSS • NEAR AXBRIDGE

Tel: 01934 732 396 • www.timberworkbuildings.co.uk • e.mail: info@timberworkbuildings.co.uk

PERFECT PAVE

Details: 01749 679638 www.hentongardenclub.weebly.com

Perfect Pave, based on the Valley Line industrial estate, in Cheddar, has built an enviable reputation over the last 16 years for the quality of its work installing block paving and other landscaping products. Now founders Alex Howley and Simon Bethell have set up a new service run by James Starmer supplying these products to both the trade and public, as well as continuing to expand their installation team. e company now has contracts all over the South West and offers a wide choice of projects.

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

Showroom open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri 8am-12noon Sat MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 57

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MENDIP TIMES

Wassail has firepower

EVENTS

A GIANT bonfire, plenty of singing and dancing and a performance by the irreverent Langport Mummers ensured the annual Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society wassail was another success. The wassail, led by master of ceremonies Alan Stone, was held in the community orchard in North Wootton before the celebrations continued in the village hall.

Wassail queen Winifred Neeve, aged eight and from Polsham, lights the bonfire watched by Bill Bartlett (left) and Ian Harvey, from the Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society Wessex Purchase, who used a replica 19th century fowling gun during the ceremony

The Langport Mummers in full cry inside the village hall

The traditional wassail singing was led my master of ceremonies Alan Stone (left) with wassail queen Winifred Neeve, her sister Nellie, aged four, and mum Lucy, under a torch held by show society chairman Ian Harvey PAGE 44 2019 2020 58 • MENDIP TIMES • JFULY EBRUARY

The Beetlecrushers clog and step dance group joined in the fun

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MENDIP TIMES

Art for health

RIgHT on cue, as we enter a crucial phase to raise funds for our own theatre in the Chew valley, the British Medical Journal published research to show that the joy, connection, rejuvenation and escape from life that art can offer may actually help us live longer. a 14-year study of 6,710 Brits over 50

By Dr PHIL recorded 2001 deaths. But engaging in the arts HAMMOND appeared to offer a protective effect, a bit like a wonder drug with a dose-response relationship but no unpleasant side effects.

Some 47.5% of people who never engaged in cultural activities died over the follow-up period, compared to 26.6% of those who engaged infrequently (less than once a year up to twice a year) and 18.6% of those who engaged frequently (every few months or more).

This was not a randomised controlled trial so enjoying the arts could be a consequence of good health rather than a cause of it.

But the study controlled for socio-economic factors like a participant’s income, education level and mobility, and the protective effect of the arts seemed to be present whatever the life circumstance.

The study cannot say how the arts sprinkles its magic, but I’ve written before about the pillars of health being CLaNgeRS (Connect, Learn, (be) active, Notice, give back, eat well, Relax, Sleep). art, particularly if you participate in it (e.g. sing in a choir and socialise after) can give you the full CLaNgeRS. The study also doesn’t rank the benefits of, say, a day in a museum or night at the opera. You have to figure out what art works for you. But to do that, we need to be able to access it. a purpose-built theatre at Chew valley School will not only make a night of theatre, comedy or film a lot easier, cheaper and greener for more local people to enjoy but it will give people of all ages a chance to participate in the arts as well as simply experience it.

The theatre would become a community hub for people of all ages to enjoy and share skills and stories. and it would bring us all together to talk, listen and reflect. You can see what’s on at other venues in the valley and how you can help and donate by following this link. art for all! https://www.valleyartscentre.co.uk Links to the study on art and healthcare: https://www.bmj.com/content/367/bmj.l6377

An artist's impression of the new centre

Dr Phil is a patron of the Chew Valley Arts project PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Plop the Raindrop

Have you been celebrating a new year? I’ve seen millions of them – lucky me!

Did you make any New Year resolutions? I didn’t. I can’t remember how many I’ve made and never kept.

There was a time when people made predictions about what a new year would bring. I wish I knew. I’ve been told there might be a gas cloud stretching at least four light years across the Milky Way. Do you know what a light year is?

When we say that something travels “faster than the speed of light” it’s a way of saying something is very very fast. So if it takes light, the fastest thing we know, a whole year to travel somewhere, that distance is a light year. an absolutely gi-normous way away.

There are billions of galaxies like the Milky Way, trillions of light years across. The universe is mind bogglingly huge.

You might think that gives a bit of perspective to what’s going on here on earth. Bush fires in australia and floods in Indonesia are in the headlines, quite rightly, but there’s a far bigger universe out there.

Will human beans ever get to explore it? Physically it seems impossible to travel such distances through time and space. I think a single light year is something like six million million miles, so you can’t imagine any sort of rocket doing that. That bike you got for Christmas won’t get you there.

There’s all sorts of talk about parallel universes allowing things to be in different places at once. Perhaps that’s a possibility. You human beans have a habit of coming up with the unexpected.

I once thought only birds and bugs could fly, but you invented machines to do that. as a water droplet, I can fall as rain on your head, land as ice in your drink or float as steam into the air. So I can change my form but I can’t fly to any distant galaxies, as far as I know.

Let’s make the most of what we’ve got. Spring is coming.

There are snowdrops and lambs already, then we’ll have daffodils and apple blossom, warmer sunshine and longer days.

It’s a mystery to me how all this came about, when earth was just a mass of gas, ice and rubble when I first arrived in a giant swirling mass. It took billions of years to create something so beautiful.

Perhaps that’s what’s going on now out in the Milky Way? Compared to the barren waste out in space we live in paradise and need to take care of it. I know the ice caps are melting and the forests are being cleared; the oceans are full of plastic and whole species of animals are disappearing.

But you human beans ought to be clever enough to do something about it. Once dinosaurs ruled the earth, but I don’t think they were as clever as you. So then you came along.

Perhaps ants will rule the earth next.

MENDIP GRANDAD

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Increasing dementia awareness in the Cheddar area

a CaMPaIgN is underway in Cheddar and surrounding villages to tackle the stigma and lack of understanding around dementia.

It is being organised by two locally-based Dementia Friends Champions, anne Bambury and John Wilson, who are hosting two free information sessions to be held at Cheddar Watersports Club Pavilion at Cheddar Reservoir on Wednesday, april 1st.

The Dementia Friends programme is organised by the alzheimer’s Society and is the biggest ever initiative to change people’s perceptions of dementia. It aims to transform the way the nation thinks, talks and acts about the condition. There are currently 850,000 people living with this condition in england. as well as the sessions, there will be information available from alzheimer’s Society about dementia, local services and how businesses and groups can become more dementia friendly. each session will last approximately an hour with the chance for people to ask questions and share information. They take place at 2pm and 7pm.

The venue has been provided free-of-charge by Cheddar Watersports. vice Commodore alice allen, who is also a Dementia Friends Champion, said: “We’re delighted to help and become part of the campaign to help over three million people in the UK be more aware of dementia and how it affects people.”

Boxing clever

BOxINg champion Jake Dugan from Bath City aBC offered to volunteer at Clare Hall! The qualified boxing coach has recently become english aBa light middleweight champion.

He has been boxing for over ten years and has always dreamed of becoming world champion. He showed off some boxing techniques, as well as getting everyone active on a Sunday afternoon.

HEALTH & FAMILY

Learn and practise lifesaving skills

CHRIS Cox will be running a general first aid training session on Sunday, February 23rd, 9am-1pm at Langport Red Cross Centre.

Open to all, the course is entirely practical and will teach and give practice in the basic skills necessary to preserve life and stabilise casualties until the professionals arrive.

Topics will include cardiac arrest, heart attacks, strokes, severe bleeds, choking, allergic reactions, asthma, diabetes, fractures and other topics if requested.

The cost is £35 which will go to Langport and District Red Cross group. Places are limited.

Details: Chris Cox 01458 273085 or e-mail cox.cj@btinternet.com

Training session

WeLLS-based charity Heads Up are offering another three-hour "Introduction to Mental Health First aid (MHFa)" training session on Wednesday, February 19th, 1-4.30pm.

The training session will be facilitated by vanessa gordon, who has over 30 years mental health work experience.

Details: Vanessa on 075640 71477 or email her on beulahlight@outlook.com

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

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

Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals Thea’s Footcare, Mobile Foot Clinic Mobile: 07849 033 055 email: thea-m-1@hotmail.co.uk

CLARE HALL NURSING HOME PREMIUM ROOMS DESIGNED WITH FAMILY IN MIND NOW AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING Ston Easton BA3 4DE • E-mail: admin@clarehallnursinghome.co.uk • Tel: 01761 241626 MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 61

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MENDIP TIMES

Helping with hearing loss

a NeW service, The Hearing Information exchange, has been set up in Frome to encourage volunteers to learn how to clean and retube hearing aids. Its founder, local resident Wally Harbert, said that most hearing aids have plastic tubing that needs regular cleaning and replacement and users sometimes suffer in silence because neither they nor their relatives can maintain their hearing aids.

The new exchange wants to ensure everyone, including hospital patients and care home residents, receive the help they need.

Learning life skills

Details: agecare@btinternet.com

New health alliance

SOMeRSeT is set to be a trailblazer for mental health care as a new alliance prepares to deliver an innovative new approach.

The Somerset Mental Health alliance is a partnership of ten organisations and is amongst the first in england.

Katherine Nolan, chief executive of Spark Somerset said: "This is an exciting new approach – where NHS services and local voluntary organisations will be working in partnership to ensure that residents of Somerset get the support they need, when they need it.”

Spark provides information, advice, training and support to the voluntary and community sector in Mendip, Sedgemoor and South Somerset.

Violet Delmas receiving her award of Bristol Blue Glass from deputy manager Gemma Graville on the Lifeskills village set

FOUR volunteer guides from Lifeskills Safety education Centre have been recognised for their commitment to teaching thousands of children to stay safe and lead healthy lives.

The guides, who are all from North Somerset, were presented with their awards by deputy manager gemma graville at their annual party. violet Delmas, from Nailsea, has been a volunteer at Lifeskills since it opened 20 years ago and has completed over 1000 sessions at the centre.

Three more guides from North Somerset also received awards for completing over 100 sessions at the centre: Kim Lawrence from Long ashton, Sally Wellman from Flax Bourton and Brenda Wright from Yatton.

Based in The Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Bristol, Lifeskills is an interactive village – a huge film set with 19 different “scenarios”. Children visit with their classes and are taken round the centre in groups of four, accompanied by volunteer guides like violet During their visit the children experience practising emergency 999 calls, discovering and reacting to a house fire, carrying out first aid and experiencing the consequences of trespassing on a railway line – all made realistic with the use of light, sound and wind effects violet says “I have had the privilege of being involved as a volunteer at the wonderful Lifeskills Centre for the past 20 years. Best of all every session is as different as the children themselves and it is a pleasure to get to know each group of three or four children, however briefly. I look forward to many more years at Lifeskills.” andy Townsend, manager, said: “We could not operate the centre without our dedicated team of volunteers. We know what we here do makes a difference and saves lives; one child helped his family escape a house fire, another prevented a gas explosion, and a boy knew how to make a 999 call to help his mother – all skills learnt at Lifeskills.”

Lifeskills urgently needs more volunteers and is running an hour-long “taster session” at the centre on Wednesday, February 12th at 10.30am.

Details: Call 0117 922 4511 or email sam@lifeskillsbristol.org.uk or go to https://lifeskillsbristol.org.uk/about-the-centre/tour/

PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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HEALTH & FAMILY

Court House – Cheddar’s “caring” care home

COURT House is a beautiful home that offers high quality care, delivered in a very homely environment. Court House has been run by the same family for 33 years.

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

They have 26 rooms, which all have en-suite shower rooms, with a nurse call system, telephone and wi-fi access.

Some have a small kitchenette.

Residents are encouraged to take their own furniture to personalise their rooms, although furniture can be provided.

Friendly, dedicated and well-trained staff are on hand to help with all aspects of personal care. The skilled kitchen

team offer a good range of nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day.

They have a wide range of interesting and creative daily activities including arts and craft sessions, cooking sessions, pianist, Tracy’s famous afternoon teas and regular visits from the local preschool children who share fun projects with the residents.

Why not join them for a free trial day to experience life at Court House? You can sample the cuisine and experience their daily activities with no obligation.

Respite care and day care are all options that are available.

They currently have a ground floor room available. Feel free to phone for a chat or arrange a visit.

COURT HOUSE

Ground Floor & Courtyard Rooms Currently Available

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

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

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

The Manager – Chris Dando • 01934 742131 • chriscourthouse@gmail.com Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 63

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MENDIP TIMES

Natural skin care products from Goats of the Gorge gOaTS of the gorge is run by Nick King who regularly gives talks to groups on how his career changed five years ago when a consultant advised him to start drinking goats’ milk to help build his calcium levels. at the time Nick was a police officer with avon & Somerset and took this advice. after six months he no longer needed to take any calcium tablets and was told to just keep to the goats’ milk.

Nick researched goats’ milk and discovered the many benefits when used in skin care products. He attended a soap school learning the basics and soon developed his own recipe.

He liked the idea of having his own herd of goats and soon increased this to 24, hand-milking nine morning and night and soon became a centre of attention for the media appearing on the ITv News and BBC showing him milking and making soap.

Nick who received national recognition in 2008 from the home secretary for his contribution to neighbourhood policing

said: “When customers leave positive reviews on how the products have helped their eczema, psoriasis and other skin complaints it’s such a boost.”

The name goats of the gorge came from the fact that goats are freely roaming Cheddar gorge in a natural habitat and all the products are made using natural ingredients.

However the milk comes from the award-winning Kerborne herd of British alpine goats in Chew Stoke owned by Teresa Ogborne and her husband. The show goats are kept in five-star conditions and are taken all over the country where they continue to win many first prizes in agricultural shows.

Nick said: “Prior to me buying all their milk, it was thrown away as regulations forbid them to sell it, but holding a byproducts licence to handle raw goats’ milk allows me to buy all their milk, which is now used to help all ages with their skin conditions.”

Nick offers free local group talks where he travels within avon and Somerset presenting a power point show covering his experience of goat keeping, how the business has developed and explains the making and benefits of the products. His talks have received excellent write-ups by WI groups and customer reviews.

The full range can be found at Just for You, Cheddar gorge, Longleat Shop, Cheddar, Moondance, Chewton Mendip and Chew Magna, Newton St Loe farm shop, Berry Barn, Farrington gurney, Farmborough and Winford community shops, Puxton Park Farm shop, Blackmore Farm shop, Cannington, gatcombe Farm Shop and Somerset Flower Farm.

How the goats have helped

RaCHeL Heddington is one satisfied customer. She wrote: “Our daughter Heidi is five and has been suffering with psoriasis since starting school. after trying steroid creams and medicated coal tar soap which only made matters worse, we tried olive oil, coconut oil, vaseline, none of which helped!

“On a day trip to Cheddar a friend and I were shopping and came across a shop selling goats of the gorge products. The manager explained the benefits of the products and with nothing to lose I bought a shampoo bar. It's been a life saver.

“Heidi had several areas of psoriasis all over her head and would scratch them red raw. after using the bar twice she was no longer scratching and her head was not red and angry looking and most of all brushing her hair was no longer a traumatic event.”

Why not visit the online shop goatsofthegorge.com where you can also check for a stockist near you, or contact them on 07958 261971

Just some of our customer reviews; “Skin cream helps my eczema” – Hayley Keogh “This lotion is fantastic stuff – my partners psoriasis is nearly gone after 50 years” – Suzie Maggs

Our Goat’s Milk Range PALM FREE • PLASTIC FREE

Soaps • Shampoo bars • Face and body Skin Cream • Face and body Lotions • Bath Soak We also offer Petroleum Free Lip Balms with natural ingredients

All our products are handmade using raw materials

Visit us at www.goatsofthegorge.com where you will find a stockist near you or visit our online shop for the easy transaction.

PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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Mental health groups unite for Wellbeing

HEALTH & FAMILY

By Mark adler

FOUR community groups working in the mental health sector in Mendip and the surrounding areas are joining forces to help each other and improve wellbeing in the county.

Well Wessex – an informal arrangement – brings together Heads Up, based in Wells, Creativity Works, from Radstock, the

Human bingo! Delegates were encouraged to compare skills and experiences during a networking session by completing a set of questions

Lord lieutenant of Somerset Annie Maw (seated) with (l:r): Richard Miller, from Chard Watch, Sally Dempsey, from Heads Up, Sue Place, from the Balsam Centre, Lucy Nelson DL, Philippa Forsey, from Creativity Works and Becky Rowson, also from the Balsam Centre

Balsam Centre, in Wincanton, and Chard Watch, based in Chard.

The idea has been spearheaded by Lucy Nelson, a deputy lieutenant of Somerset and a former high sheriff of the county and was launched at a packed gathering of health workers and charity representatives at the Rural enterprise Centre at the Royal Bath and West Showground.

The launch coincided with an announcement by the Somerset Commissioning group that it had awarded a £1m a year contract to help to integrate adult mental health and emotional wellbeing services in Somerset and provide a broader range of services.

Information about mental health support available in Somerset can be found at: www.sompar.nhs.uk

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 65

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MENDIP TIMES

Wells social walk celebration

Community shop celebrates

tHe Wells Social Walk group met at Morrisons for a seasonal lunch after their weekly walk which leaves Morrisons every tuesday at 11am come rain or shine or maybe not if it falls on a public holiday. the group walks at a leisurely pace on easy, reasonably level, firm ground not requiring hiking boots or wellies. the walks last about 50 minutes and cost nothing. they are as much about the social interaction as the exercise. along with other occasional lunches, the Christmas lunch appears to be coming an annual event. the group unanimously agreed not to give each other Christmas cards, instead making a donation to the Heads Up charity, based just outside Wells, which supports adults with mental health issues.

Chris and Natalie Bullock at Farmborough's apple day last year

Nativity gift

CHilDren at St Julian's School, Wellow dedicated their Christmas nativity service to “thinking about others” and raised £150 for two local good causes, Somer Valley Foodbank and St Julian’s Church, Wellow.

Community crafts

Harriette Dottridge started holding a craft day several years ago as a way of helping people who might feel isolated, or newcomers to the area, enjoy their craft, while also sharing their skills and getting to know others at the same time. this year’s Compton Dando Craft Day attracted 38 people. the next workshop will be held on Monday, February 17th.

Details: 01761 490445 or email hdottridge@hotmail.com

PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

CHriS Bullock, manager of Farmborough Community Shop has been named as a finalist in a national award recognising some of the most inspiring community businesses in the UK. Farmborough Community Shop is a voluntary-run, community-owned business which opened its doors for the first time on Saturday, June 30th 2018 after six years of planning and fundraising. it offers a range of staples, alongside unique local products and gifts, as well as providing a space/hub for local people to meet over fresh coffee, tea and hand-made cake. the community’s work has been recognised by national charity the Plunkett Foundation – an organisation which supports rural communities across the UK to tackle the issues they face through community business.

Chris was one of three finalists in the People’s Choice award which recognises an outstanding individual who has contributed so much to their community business.

Sam ross, company secretary for Farmborough Community Shop, said: “Chris's commitment to the shop is continuing to bring in new customers and new volunteers. His keen eye on the health of the business also helps the shop committee to prioritise initiatives that allow our business to grow as well as support our local community.”

Some 21 community businesses across the UK were shortlisted for the 2019 rural Community Business awards, ranging from farms and pubs to cafés, shops and a woodland.

James alcock, chief executive of the Plunkett Foundation which organises the awards, said: “Community businesses are breathing new life into rural communities across the UK and it is an enormous pleasure for the Plunkett Foundation to be able to celebrate some of the outstanding individual stories with these awards.”

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Soup and puds mark historic day

Members of the International Committee with club president Sue Ruddick (far right)

arOUnD 70 members of the inner Wheel Club of Frome were joined by rotarians and friends at Chapmanslade Village Hall to celebrate World inner Wheel Day. Soups and puddings were made by the members of the international Committee chaired by Pam Brewster and other members of the club. Some members from the Shepton Mallet Club were amongst the guests and a substantial amount of money was raised for the 20/20 project.

Local charities benefit from Dot’s quizzes

SOMe 15 local charities have benefited so far from Dot Mitchard’s quizzes in the red lion pub in Paulton. these charities have ranged from the Paulton Special education needs Support Group, to Mark and laney’s Homeless Project, the air ambulance and Paulton Swimming Pool among others.

So far, almost £5,000 has been raised for these groups. Dot, helped by husband Cyril (pictured with landlord robin Mcewan) organises a quiz once a month and says she loves preparing the quizzes and raising money for charity.

She said: “Charities always need money and we get a lot of local support for them.” robin Mcewan, who has recently taken over the running of the pub, said he was very happy to host the monthly quiz. local councillor, liz Hardman, said: “i would encourage people to come to these quizzes. they are great fun and it’s good to know you’re helping a good cause.” the next quiz is at the red lion Pub, Paulton, starting at 7.45pm, on Sunday, February 9th, in aid of the scouts and guides.

Legion branch honoured again

Andy with the Colin MacKenzie Cup

COMMUNITY

tHe Shepton Mallet branch of the royal British legion has been awarded a cup for the best recruitment of new members in Somerset and Bristol – for the fifth consecutive year. the presentation of the Mitford-Slade recruitment cup was made at the Somerset royal British legion County Conference. the award covers the whole of Somerset

and Bristol; 79 Branches in total.

So far this year, 13 new membership applications have been sent off, with two other members transferring into the Shepton Mallet branch, which was also awarded the Colin MacKenzie Cup for efficiency for branches with 100-plus members.

Branch chairman andy ransom, who received a certificate of recognition for his work as chairman of the 13-strong east Somerset branch group, said: “SMrBl was awarded this cup previously in 2016; this is a huge recognition of what our members have achieved over the last year. However, this award also has to recognise the help, support and assistance given by the kindhearted and generous people of Shepton Mallet. Without them our branch would flounder.”

Food bank benefits from Inner Wheelers

Inner Wheel members with the items to be donated to their local food bank

MiDSOMer norton and radstock inner Wheel club members gathered in force for their annual inner Wheel Day at Holcombe.

Fish and chips and entertainment were on the menu at the Charmborough Farm home of audrey Hoskins and her husband Peter, alongside the event’s main emphasis on “service to the community” which took the form of collecting items for the Somer Valley Food Bank.

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 67

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MENDIP TIMES

Inner Wheel gift

Community grants available

MUSliM and refugee women can now join a new women-only group, thanks to a grant from the north Somerset Community Partnership (nSCP) grant programme, which is run by Quartet Community Foundation. the grant will help the women integrate into life in the UK and offer english classes, sign-posting and social opportunities. the project is one of 13 to recently benefit from nSCP grants to boost health and wellbeing in north Somerset.

Julie newman, philanthropy officer at the foundation said: “these 13 groups are great examples of the kind of small, local causes we support in north Somerset.

“Our Vital Signs report highlighted many of the challenges faced in north Somerset including growing life expectancy inequalities and high rates of depression so we’re really happy these grants will help address important health issues.

“We would love to support more groups like north Somerset BMe network and invite local projects to get in touch with us to find out about available grants.”

Details: https://quartetcf.org.uk/apply-for-a-grant

MeMBerS of the inner Wheel Club of Chelwood Bridge have been busily knitting a new batch of twiddlemuffs, designed to help dementia sufferers.

Jessica Jones, activity co-ordinator at Stanton Court Care Home in Stanton Drew, is pictured (left) with inner Wheel Club president Sandra Blair.

Jumble rush

In Mary’s memory

GrantS of up to £1,000 are available for people living in Somerset or Devon with physical disabilities, learning disabilities or both to take part in music therapy, music experiences and outdoor adventures. the grants are made possible by a fund called Mary’s Beat, which has been created in memory of Mary Christabel Dyer.

Mary’s parents, who live in Cossington, launched the fund at the start of 2018. Debbie, Mary's mother, said: "Mary was so enthusiastic about life, she embraced it and made the most of every single day.

“We want this fund to reflect her passion and vitality for outdoor activities and live music – especially walking, cycling, camping and music festivals.”

Details: Somerset Community Foundation 01749 344949 or visit www.somersetcf.org.uk

Business class

tHe Chew Valley branch of the avon Wildlife trust held another successful jumble sale in Chew Magna. annie Sewart (left) and Mary Spencer are pictured sorting clothes out before those after a bargain come hurtling in through the doors.

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Pictured (l to r) head teacher Warrick Barton and Rotarians Duncan Aitken and John Palmer along with some of the children involved in the project

a PilOt project at Pensford Primary School by the rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge to promote business literacy in schools has been deemed a great success. it’s now looking at rolling it out to other schools in the area.

Record pay out by parish council

COMMUnitY groups around Wells are celebrating a gift of thousands of pounds in grants from St. Cuthbert Out Parish Council. the biggest single amount, £1,200, will go to support the school crossing patrol at West Horrington. Wookey Hole Community Hall will receive £950 and the community radio station, GFM, was awarded £900. Others to benefit include Coxley Community land trust (£500) and charities Heads Up (£900) and elim (£500). the council serves 11 villages around Wells and neighbouring hamlets: South, West and east Horrington, Dinder, Dulcote, Coxley, Polsham, Haybridge, Wookey Hole, easton and Green Ore.

COMMUNITY

New committee for legion branch in Frome

Rewarding carers

nOMinatiOnS are now open for the Care and Support West 2020 Care awards, which celebrate the work that care providers do every day across north Somerset, B&neS, Bristol and South Gloucestershire. the care sector is a big contributor to our local economies: there are 500 regulated businesses and charities providing care in this region, over 26,000 people employed, plus many volunteers.

Care comes in many guises: residential, home care, live-in care, supported living, day services or simple voluntary activities.

Organisers say: “if your life or that of a loved one is improved because you receive a care service, then our awards can help you to say ‘thank you’.” nominations close mid-March, culminating in a gala dinner award ceremony in October at ashton Gate.

Details: https://www.careandsupport west.com/nominations-for-care-awards email: awards@careandsupportwest.com; or call 07931 167710.

Special service

PeaSeDOWn St John’s village-wide campaign to raise awareness of dementia and create a dementia-friendly community made history this Christmas, hosting the area’s first ever

dementia-friendly carol service.

Group member, Jane Street, said: “Christmas, which is meant to be a joyful and happy time of the year, can be distressing for anyone living with alzheimer’s or any of the other 99 types of dementia – which is exactly why we organised this event.” the service was held at St John’s Parish Church and included short performances by children from the learning tree Day nursery. the rev Derek Smith, a retired anglican vicar living in Peasedown St John, led the service.

Outgoing chairman Jane Norris holding the commemorative legion plaque, with new chairman Nigel Moore

tHe chairman of the Frome branch of the royal British legion has stood down from her post after seven years in office.

Jane norris oversaw the four years of the WWi commemorations as well as forging links between the branch and other community organisations. She was presented with a bouquet and a commemorative plaque. also standing down was treasurer Peter John. the new chairman is nigel Moore; treasurer is roger evans. l the branch meets at Frome rugby Club and welcomes new members. a military background is not essential. For details contact secretary richard aspray on frome.secretary@rbl.community

Groups in Frome urged to bid for grants

FrOMe town Council has opened applications for its People’s Budget vote where residents are offered the chance to make direct choices and decisions about how local public budgets are spent. again, up to £10,000 from a pot of £25,000 is up for grabs for a landmark community event; the town council is now receiving expressions of interest from groups who would like to put on an event; the deadline is Monday, February 10th. last year residents chose Frome Children’s Festival, Fair Housing for Frome, the Big red Housing Bus, active and in touch and Frome Fireworks.

Community groups who meet the criteria and are entitled to pitch will be asked to put a one-minute film together, along with their application of a 300-word description and budget which will then be put to the public vote. the vote will then be open to residents in the first two weeks of March.

For details, visit: www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/peoplesbudget-events/

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 69

(Photo courtesy of Nick Spratling)

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MENDIP TIMES

Christmas food

COMMUNITY

Lions charity sale

CHeDDar Vale lions next jumble sale will be on Saturday, February 15th in Cheddar Village Hall. Hundreds of items were handed in at their last event, raising up to £400 for their charitable work in the local community. items can be delivered to the hall on the day (no electrical items) after 12 noon, so that they can be sorted ready for the opening at 2pm. there is an entrance fee of 20p. refreshments will be available.

Details: 0345 833 7402 or email information@cheddarvalelions.org.uk

Community grants

WeSSex Water is offering financial support to grassroots groups that bring people together across Somerset. the fund, managed by Somerset Community Foundation, is open for applications until Friday, February 14th.

Grants of up to £1,500 are available to organisations that build cohesion in communities, with priority given to smaller groups that work in areas of financial deprivation or rural isolation and/or work to raise awareness of drinking water for healthy living or saving water. the fund is also being delivered across other parts of the West Country by Quartet, who cover Bath & north east Somerset, Bristol, north Somerset and South Gloucestershire, Dorset and Wiltshire Community Foundations.

Kirsty Scarlett, Wessex Water’s head of community engagement, said: “We want to make sure that we support our communities to help those who need it most. We’re delighted to be working in partnership with the four community foundations across our region who are all well placed to understand and address needs through making grants in their local areas. “the Wessex Water Community Fund will prioritise small, grassroots charities and community organisations over larger ones that perhaps have a higher profile.” andrew ridgewell, programmes manager at Somerset Community Foundation, said: “this fund will make a big difference to hundreds of people in Somerset and across the West Country.”

Grants up to the value of £1,500 are available from the Somerset Fund, managed by Somerset Community Foundation, aimed at smaller groups that run on less than £50,000 per year. the grants will be “unrestricted”, which means they can be used to pay for ongoing running costs. the deadline is Friday, February 14th.

Details: www.somersetcf.org.uk/wessexwater quartetcf.org.uk or call Somerset Community Foundation on 01749 344949

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

axBriDGe rotary collected a van load of bags of food for Feed the Homeless in Weston in time for Christmas.

Foodbank finds new home

SOMer Valley Foodbank has a new home to store its six tonnes of non-perishable food, thanks to the generosity of a local businessman.

Foodbank chairman, Paul Woodward, said: “this was the answer to our prayers and the new offer came along at the right time following the articles in the local press. there were several offers made to us, but this businessman’s was the best for our operation. “the foodbank management team would like to thank our previous landlord who was most generous and helpful with the arrangement we had, it was just unfortunate that we had to leave. “it had been a very useful warehouse for us to have for the last five years. We fully understand the need to increase the rent but it was beyond our means to continue there.”

With more than 70 volunteers collecting and transporting food, helping in distribution centres, and providing support to those who visit, the Somer Valley Foodbank is one of the biggest volunteer-led projects in Bath and north east Somerset, helping some 2,000 people each year. the location of the new storage warehouse can’t be made public, but those who need support are able to visit one of the charity’s distribution centres each week in Midsomer norton, Paulton, radstock or Peasedown St John.

Details: www.somervalley.foodbank.org.uk email info@somervalley.foodbank.org.uk or call 07729523986

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NEWS

We’ve got a tractor to ride

A GROUP of friends boarded vintage tractors and other vehicles for a twohour drive around Mendip and the Somerset Levels.

The trip, which this year started in Priddy, was the fourth annual event and took the vehicles down Cheddar Gorge on their way to Wedmore and through surrounding villages before ending at Draycott.

This year’s ride was organised by John Dally, of Priddy, and raised money for the paediatric audiology department at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton where his grandson has been receiving treatment.

The tractor drivers prepare to leave Priddy Good Farm Shop

Heading down the gorge

Amongst the vehicles was a Second World War haulage lorry which has spent all its civilian life on Mendip and is still used for clearing woodland

Bid for “town deal” funding for Glastonbury

GLASTONBURY Chamber of Commerce has welcomed news that Mendip District Council has begun work with communities, businesses, key partners and stakeholders in a bid for major Government “Town Deal” funding for Glastonbury.

Glastonbury was one of 101 places chosen to pioneer Town Deals and can bid for up to a maximum £25 million. The scheme was designed by the government to “level up” all parts of the country, by regenerating town centres to boost businesses, improve infrastructure, encourage enterprise and bring communities together.

A £140,000 government grant has been released to the council to kick-start the process of setting up a Glastonbury Town Deal Board; the money will help ensure there are sufficient funds to resource a major strategic bidding process and to support further local community and business engagement.

Jill Barker, from Glastonbury Chamber of Commerce, said: “This funding represents a really exciting new opportunity to bring our local employers together to explore a range of schemes and initiatives. Glastonbury businesses are very creative and diverse and it will be very important to make sure that we develop a plan which will truly capture the spirit of the town, as well as tackling underlying business and regeneration issues.”

The board will include representatives from across the public, private and voluntary sectors, and will be chaired by a representative of the local business community. Its function, in consultation with communities, will be to develop a Town Investment Plan for Glastonbury by summer 2020, providing a clear vision for building on the town's unique strengths, and its iconic appeal to visitors from across the world.

Leader of Mendip District Council, Councillor Ros Wyke, said she was committed to supporting the opportunity for a Glastonbury Town Deal, while recognising that the competitive nature of major capital funding from Government, meant it would require a strong bid to achieve maximum funding.

Councillor Wyke said: “This is the beginning of a process and there is a long way to travel, but we will work together to ensure we achieve maximum opportunities and investment for Glastonbury and its residents.” l The Town Deal initiative is different to the Future High Street Fund, which Mendip applied for to support regeneration in Shepton Mallet but was unsuccessful in the nationally oversubscribed funding competition. The council says it will continue to work with Shepton Mallet Town Council and key stakeholders to consider future opportunities for enhancement schemes.

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 71

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“Exquisite wedding cards, keepsakes, favours, bridal party gifts and post box hire”

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01761 452442 Visit our ‘Berry Barn Wedding Hire’ page on Facebook for more information

Perfect gifts

WHETHER you are looking for extra special details or the perfect present, Berry Barn at Farrington Gurney can help.

They offer a post box, suitcase, birdcage and bunting hire service and have ideas for wedding favours, dreamy bridal jewellery, gifts for the whole party plus beautiful bridal keepsakes, cards and wrap.

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FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

Weddings in Wells

The Cathedral Suite

WHETHER it’s an intimate wedding, a large wedding reception or the civil wedding ceremony itself, the Swan Hotel in Wells prides itself on providing the

perfect wedding venue.

Their civil wedding ceremonies are held in the beautiful Garden Room which opens out onto a secluded walled garden. The Ivory Suite seats up to 90 guests for a wedding breakfast. Evening functions for up to 150 guests can be catered for by hiring the interconnecting Garden Room.

At the front of the hotel, Swan Terrace provides a unique opportunity to capture Wells Cathedral as a stunning backdrop for wedding photographs. The stunning luxurious Cathedral Suite offers unrivalled panoramic views of Wells Cathedral.

The hotel is offering a fantastic all inclusive wedding package of £4,999, including exclusive use of the events suite, welcome drink on arrival, three-course wedding breakfast, two glasses of wine with the meal, a glass of sparkling wine for the toast, Master of Ceremonies, cake stand, an evening reception finger buffet for 100 guests, a wedding night stay in the luxurious Cathedral Suite and dedicated wedding coordinator.

This is based on 50 guests. Additional covers are charged for separately.

A choice of superb venues

PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

WEDDING venues have to be one of the most important decisions to be made for any bridal couple. Trying to find one that will match the number of people, the budget and the right surroundings can be sometimes quite a daunting process.

This is where Latona leisure can step in offering four beautiful period properties, all uniquely located with a dedicated wedding co-ordinator on hand to lead you step by step through your wedding day. The Walton Park Hotel, superbly situated on the cliffside in Clevedon, offers stunning views across the estuary.

With its unique waterside gazebo and an impressive range of banqueting suites the hotel can cater for parties of all sizes.

Set beneath the rolling Mendip Hills with views over the Somerset Levels the Webbington Hotel & Spa is beautifully located with an impressive range of wedding suites offering total flexibility to discerning couples. The beautiful Georgian Limpley Stoke Country House Hotel set in the magnificent Avon valley on the outskirts of Bath offers elegance, charm, first class service and is a sought-after wedding venue.

The magnificent Leigh Park Hotel, Bradford-on-Avon is set in five acres of grounds with its own walled garden and vineyard and offers a comprehensive array of wedding packages, to include their new Exclusively Yours package.

All four of these stunning wedding venues offer packages to suit all seasons, sizes and budgets, with magnificent wedding suites and gazebos set in manicured gardens and grounds giving you – Your Wedding Your Way…

(Photo courtesy of Tim Mercer)

MENDIP TIMES

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CAVING

One well, two springs

BEFORE the advent of the Bristol Waterworks Company, St. Dunstan’s Well near Stoke St. Michael must have been a picturesque resurgence, with its clear water flowing from the base of a low cliff in the valley above Stoke Bottom Farm.

Long before the water was piped by the With PHILIP water company to serve the needs of HENDY Bristol, its power had been utilised to power mills further down the valley. A cascade takes the water underground through a short tunnel, past a large walled enclosure, probably a mill, to further abandoned sites downstream.

It eventually becomes the Mells River. The area north of the farm was once known as Fernhill and in the wood there are the ruins of small cottages along a narrow track bounded by a bank.

The Somerset Historic Environment Record website suggests that they were mill or mine workers’ cottages, but nothing else seems to be known. Coal mining was not carried on to any great extent in the Nettlebridge valley, so my belief is that the cottages were part of a wool-processing community, probably dating from the 18th or 19th century.

The name Fernhill appears on the 1884 OS map, but no longer appears on current editions.

St Dunstan’s Well itself is interesting, not only because it is an important rising on the north flank of this part of Mendip, but because there are two distinct springs. Most of the water, mainly from the East spring, flows from the base of the large concrete waterworks blockhouse.

This spring lies on the Withybrook Fault and it is mainly supplied by Stoke Lane Slocker, a kilometre away and 22 metres higher. Much of the smaller West spring water rises from a small natural tunnel slightly above the blockhouse.

This is called Lycopodium Hole, after the dyed spores of the Lycopodium fern which were at one time used in water tracing between swallets and risings.

The main source of water here comes from Withybrook

Lycopodium Hole

St. Dunstan’s Well Cave

Slocker, nearly a kilometre away on the Oakhill to Stoke St. Michael road, and 16 metres higher. The slocker is part of the Fairy Cave Quarry complex of caves, although none of these has so far connected with the main water course.

Small streams have been found in Conning Tower Cave (a fragment of Balch Cave, the highly decorated cave destroyed by quarrying in the 1960s) and at the bottom of a shaft just inside the entrance to Shatter Cave. The current in both of them suggests that they are feeders to the main flow.

Although both parts of the well have been investigated by cave divers, neither can be penetrated for any considerable distance. There is, however, a small cave at a slightly higher level.

St. Dunstan’s Well Cave is a tight, tortuous hole some 120 metres long. Domestos Bend is a tight duck which can be bailed to make progress slightly easier. A small chamber near the end has two holes in the boulder floor which drop three metres to a static sump pool, which has been dived to a depth of six metres, with no apparent way on.

Climbing back out is difficult. The sump is above the resurgence below, but it has been suggested that a dig on the hillside might connect with an aven which approaches the surface from near the end of the cave. This would make it much easier to gain access to the sump avoiding the squeezes, and allow further investigation, but so far no attempt has been made to bring this about.

The Cerberus Speleological Society dug the cave in a halfhearted manner from the 1950s, finally entering the cave in 1971. Amongst the spoil they found archaeological material dating back to the Middle Ages, including fragments of clay pipes.

Although St. Dunstan’s Well and its associated caves are of little interest to sporting cavers, it is well worth a visit. A walk in Harridge Wood can be easily extended across the fields beyond the old cottage (now an important bat roost, part of the Somerset Wildlife Trust’s nature reserve) to cross the road and walk down the track to the well and ruins beyond.

The two streams, from Ashwick Grove and Nettlebridge, show signs of past industry, with their ruined dams and sluices. In the springtime, it is only a little way further to Edford Wood with its masses of dwarf daffodils and traces of open-cast coal mining.

Phil has been caving for more than 50 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and until his retirement was a caving instructor at Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

(Photographs courtesy of Phil Hendy)

MENDIP TIMES

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MOTORING

UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES Sales – Service – Parts – Repairs

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MAJOR improvements on the B3139 (The Liberty and Tor Street) in Wells are scheduled to take place in February.

They include the removal of the old road surface, repairs to the kerbs and drainage system, followed by resurfacing.

Preparatory works will take place between Monday, February 10th and Friday, February 14th with temporary traffic lights in place. The resurfacing itself requires a road closure. This is due to take place during half term (February 17th-21st) between 7.30am and 6pm. The road will reopen overnight.

Access to homes and businesses will be maintained wherever possible.

)

Roadworks warning in Wells

Bailey approved body shop and workshop

l Caravan Servicing l Annual Habitation Checks l Alu-Tech Bailey Approved Repairers l Warranty Maintained l Damp Repairs l Accident Repairs l Insurance Repairs l Accessory Fitting

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Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 75

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MENDIP TIMES

Sole Agents, New Instruction.

Detached family house with 2 acres.

Long drive approach to a four bedroom house with lovely aspect over adjoining countryside. Large garden and adjoining paddocks.

Reverse accommodation over two floors sitting room, large family kitchen, bedroom five, bathroom and cloakroom. Four further bedrooms and en suite. Utility room. Some updating required. EPC: D Ref: 25721

East Harptree, Chew Valley • Guide Price £725,000

A detached house requiring some updating. Two reception rooms, kitchen, utility, cloakroom, four bedrooms and bathroom. Garden principally to the front of the property. The property is subject to an A.O.C. (agricultural occupancy condition) details of which can be provided on request. EPC: G Ref: 25652

Bishop Sutton, Chew Valley • Guide Price £400,000

DJP Newland Rennie are pleased to announce Jemma Corbett has joined them to oversee the residential lettings in Somerset and Gloucestershire. She has worked in residential lettings for over 15 years and previously worked for an international company; where she set up the lettings business based in Bristol.

She has experience in dealing with many clients from charities; buy to let investors landlords through to families looking to let out their home whilst having to relocate themselves.

The private rented sector has been under close scrutiny and seen immense change over the past few years and many landlords are becoming increasingly overwhelmed by this. Jemma is committed to ensuring all clients are aware of how the changes will affect them, whilst making sure their investment is working for them and well looked after.

Stewart Waters, Managing Director, says, ‘the appointment of Jemma shows our ongoing commitment to investing in the residential lettings arm of our multi discipline practice as well as our long term growth strategy for both new and existing clients.’

If you have a property that you are thinking of letting or would just like an informal chat; get in touch now on 01934 864 353 or email Jemma@djandp.co.uk for a service that suits your needs.

Contact the Wrington Office: 01934 864307

To book a viewing or for more details, please contact ego-logicalpods@hotmail.com • 07955 707353 or 07966 558502 PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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Looking at changes in residential letting legislation

WITH residential lettings becoming more regulated, landlords are leaving the sector and constrained supply is leading to higher rents. This spring, we will see further key pieces of legislation that will affect the private rental sector.

The legislative changes include: 1. Extension of the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act The original Act – which meant landlords can be forced to carry out improvement works to properties – is being extended to include existing statutory periodic tenancies, i.e. those that are running on with the original term having expired.

2. Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards From April 1st, all existing tenancies must have an EPC rating of E or better so houses currently let with a lower rating should not be. Landlords will be expected to pay up to £3,500 towards energy efficiency improvement works and if works cost more landlords can apply for an exemption.

PROPERTY

3. Capital Gains Tax changes Until now, CGT has not been payable on profits made by selling let property if the owner once lived in the home themselves. From April this is scrapped and landlords will only be able to claim relief if they share the property with their tenant.

4. Extension of the Tenant Fees Act Letting agents have, since last June, only been able to charge tenants rents, deposits, holding deposits and charges for Four bedroom house in Chew Magna available to rent at 1400pcm through defaulting on contracts – but this has, Killens until now, applied only to new tenants.

From June, it applies to all existing the cumulative impact of these changes tenancies. In addition, deposits are capped could lead to less homes available to rent at five weeks rent if the annual rent is resulting in higher rents and pressure on below £50,000 and, where landlords have local authorities to deliver more housing. taken more, tenants can claim any excess Higher rents could however encourage back and allowing pets makes no landlords to stay in the sector but lead to difference! financial pressures for tenants. Time will More changes are on the way with the tell but the Government need to monitor Government having pledged to give the implications of these changes tenants greater security for example. carefully.

Further safeguards may be welcomed but

By Tom Killen

Killens provide a comprehensive property letting service and can be contacted on 01749 671172 or 01275 333993.

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 77

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MENDIP TIMES

EVENTS

Wassail celebrates local heroes

MIDSOMER Norton wassail once again paid tribute to four local people who contributed to the town’s heritage and helped to preserve it.

Trees dedicated to David Fisher, Ted Hallam, David Strwbridge and Norman Voake were wassailed as part of the ceremony organised by the Midsomer Norton Society.

It’s a bit of a squeeze: Madeleine Drew, aged three, keeps a close eye on accordion player Tony Seymour, from Cam Valley Morris, as Helen Rushton, from the Village Band, looks on

Cam Valley Morris had a busy day – they also danced at the Pilton Wassail

Mollie and Theodore pour cider around the base of one of the trees

Blagdon Wassail beats the weather

Pictured (l to r): Alan Barwick, Apple Queen Lesley BarwickHall and organiser Julie Chamberlain

PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Crowning glory: Wassail king and queen Theodore Drew, aged eight, and Millie Adams, ten, with mayor Michael Evans and Paul Myers, from the Midsomer Norton Society

Somerset Morris performed

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EVENTS

Perfect setting for ceremony

THE abbey barn at the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury was the focus for the attraction’s annual wassail.

Rapscallian entertained throughout the evening

Wassailing the orchard

The magnificent tithe barn

Mulled cider kept out the chill

Wassail king Martin Bletsoe with his wife Lisa-Marie; the couple live in High Littleton

Bishop Sutton Wassail

The shotgun team

Master of ceremonies Les Davies crowns Martin Bletsoe the wassail king. Martin was chosen after he found a bean hidden in a piece of apple cake

Wassail Queen Faith Bridge with Green Man Ali Pearson and MC Colin Emmett

Putting toast in the tree

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 79

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Back to the future

trADerS at the Shepton mallet Victorian Fayre were joined by organisers and others in dressing suitably for the occasion. the Sunday market was the second to be run by the not-for-profit company the Shepton experience. organisers are now planning a special market to coincide with the Shepton mallet Snowdrop Festival in February.

Liz Tedbury and Bamber Threw, of Moon Fire – just some of the musicians who performed at the fayre

Jude Jackson, from The Shepton Experience (left), with town and district councillor Edric Hobbs and Jude’s partner Jon Carpenter

Elementary my dear … Claire Poolman, who runs a vintage shop, won the prize for best dressed female at the fayre

Sioux, Sali and Alison, more traders who entered into the Victorian spirit

For details, find The Shepton Experience on Facebook or visit www.thesheptonexperience.co.uk

PagE 80 • MEnDiP TiMES • FEbruary 2020

Charity seeks Mendip volunteers

SomerSet Sight is the only local independent charity supporting blind and visually impaired people living across Somerset. one in five people aged 75 and over are living with some degree of sight loss. For those aged 90 and older, that rises to one in two.

An estimated 19,000 visually impaired people are living across Somerset.

Somerset Sight provide practical and emotional support as well as training and leisure activities to reduce loneliness and isolation, increase independence and improve quality of life for people living with sight loss.

In rural areas they face particular challenges. transport links can be infrequent or unreliable and many shops, pubs, cafes and bank branches have closed. older people living with sight loss in these areas often feel lonely and isolated, and less independent than they did before their vision began to deteriorate Somerset Sight provide a volunteer visiting service offering companionship, advice and practical support to people living with a visual impairment.

For Val, a lady living in Cheddar whose sight has begun to deteriorate as she's got older, visits from her volunteer Sarah have been life-changing. Sarah first started visiting Val three and a half years ago, fitting her visits around her shift work in the NHS. over that time they've become firm friends. Val said: "I like being with people and Sarah is fun to be around."

Sarah has helped Val with her correspondence and shopping and accompanied her on trips to Bristol, Street, Wells and Weston-Super-mare.

Sarah has also enjoyed their trips to the garden centre and the local pub for lunch. over the years, she says, their relationship has become "more like friends than a service user and volunteer".

Val knows that Sarah is always ready to help. She said: "If ever I need help or advice I know I can rely on Sarah."

Currently Somerset Sight doesn’t have enough volunteers to help across the mendip area. In return for your time they offer full training and cover all reasonable expenses.

Details: 01823 333818 or email admin@somersetsight.org.uk

History feature.qxp_Layout 1 23/01/2020 10:49 Page 58

Light shed on Roman Somerset

This older female was buried with a pillow supporting her head and a pottery vessel positioned alongside. The small stone-built coffin-like box is known as a cist and is very unusual for Somerset. The burial indicates high status

the lives of the Roman population of Somerton.”

The form of the burials is unusual locally and sheds lights on the transition between Iron Age and Roman society.

Steve added: “The individuals were

This aerial view shows the outline of the roundhouses A variety of brooches were found

evidently of some status in native society.

The burials also show early adoption of Roman burial practices, such as offerings, alongside traditionally Iron Age characteristics.”

The graves were dug into the bedrock and lined with stone “curbs” to create a coffin structure. These were then sealed with flat lias slabs, while others have an uncommon “tented” roof. Traces of Iron Age roundhouses, field systems and of a Roman building, are also evident. It is hoped that the discoveries can be used to teach pupils about the history of the area, and that the archaeology of the roundhouses can be reflected in the site development.

Work on the new, 420-pupil, 14-class school had to be delayed while experts from Wessex Archaeology dug the site – and unearthed the fascinating discoveries.

Now the field work has been completed, construction by BAM Construction was expected to start as Mendip Times went to press.

A coin of Emperor Vespasian 69-79 AD

(All images xourtesy of Wessex Archaeology)

ANCIENT burials unearthed at the site of a new school in Somerton are shedding significant new light on life and death in Roman Somerset.

Archaeologists working on the Somerset County Council-owned land have discovered some 50 burials dating from the Roman period (43-410 AD) on the site of the new school that will replace the current King Ina Junior and Infants’ schools.

The burials were of adults and children and included grave goods such as pottery and brooches. The South West Heritage Trust has overseen the excavations.

Archaeologist Steve Membery said: “This site is a significant discovery – the most comprehensive modern excavation of a Roman cemetery in Somerset.

“The application of technology including aerial drones and techniques such as isotope and ancient DNA analysis offers major opportunities for insights into

HiSToRy

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 81

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MENDIP TIMES

R.O. Dando and Sons Ltd Builders, Decorators & Roofing Contractors

FAMILY BUSINESS BASED IN THE CHEW VALLEY FOR OVER 100 YEARS

Call us or visit our website for more info: 01275 333603 • www.dando.org.uk

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

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HOMES & INTERIORS

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 83

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MENDIP TIMES

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01275 342656 www.seal-lite.co.uk Unit 1, Tweed Road, Clevedon, North Somerset BS21 6RR PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 8.30pm – 5pm & Sat 10am – 3pm

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EVENTS

Having a blast in Pilton

A MUMMERS play, singing and dancing and a procession around the orchard were part of the annual wassail celebrations in Pilton.

Take aim: James Morrison wards off the evil spirits

Wassail queen Lilijah Andrews with the Pilton Players who performed a mummer play

Cam Valley Morris dance beneath the magnificent roof timbers of the tithe barn

Mendip Society Wassail

Maureen Tofts (left) and Debbie Lodge welcome wassailers with mulled cider and apple cake

Wassail queen, Phoebe, aged 12

Barley Rye choir MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 85

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MENDIP TIMES

RIDING

Elegant Equitation – a new riding experience for the coming spring?

SATURDAY afternoon at Ebborlands Equestrian Centre in Wookey Hole. Getting out of the car I inhale that wonderful mixture of With RACHEL smells – ponies, hay THOMPSON and haylage.

MBE I am here to talk to Jenny Chamberlain about her passion for riding side saddle. In her and husband David’s converted barn kitchen I admire the photos displayed on the table. Her saddle is on the rack close by. I pick it up.

“Gosh that’s heavy!” I say. The calf leather gleams, polished with years of elbow grease and love, the doe skin seat is soft to touch.

Jenny popped up so often on my Facebook page in 2019, clutching a rosette whilst looking poised and elegant on small hunter Tinks, that I thought it high time for chat.

“Tinks has gone home now,” Jenny tells me wistfully, on loan to her for a while whilst her friend has a baby. This year it’s time to concentrate on Jenny’s own horses – ten-year-old, 15hh grey cob Sidney and 15:2hh, 13-year-old piebald Irish Sports Horse Mia. “Mare and gelding – one of each!” I joke. The horses are kept fit by schooling, fun rides and hacking – straight up Deerleap to Priddy. This is more difficult

Jenny on Tinks in the costume class wearing the electric blue habit

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

At North Somerset Show on Tinks, owned by Helen Badder

now we agree, as the roads are so busy.

Jenny rides in side saddle equitation and costume classes and dressage. She is lucky that David sometimes travels with her to keep her company on some of the longer trips to a competition. In equitation, marks are awarded for the horse and riders’ performance with a comment card given suggesting improvement to work on in future. You Tube videos are great too!

In costume classes, accuracy of attire is important. I look at a photo of Jenny wearing a stunning electric blue habit.

“Wow, where did you buy that?” I ask, imagining a bow fronted, lead windowed emporium selling vintage Edwardian and Victorian costumes. “eBay!”. The costumes are replicas, with lead weights sown into the apron to stop the skirt being whipped up.

I wondered from where her passion for side saddle originated? Jenny tells me that after passing her BHS stage 3 riding and stable management exams 25 years ago she needed a new challenge. At the Bath & West show she felt inspired by the elegance of the ladies’ hunter class. This led to side saddle lessons with Mrs Sally Hall and her school master horses at the Urchinwood Manor Riding and Event Centre in Congresbury.

“Best thing that’s happened in your riding career?” I ask. “Ten years ago – winning the dressage class at the National Side Saddle Show at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre, Buckinghamshire.”

“Worst thing?”. “That’s harder, I’ve been

lucky, but being bucked off trying to introduce a young horse to side saddle was no joke.” We can all empathise with that.

Any horse can be ridden side saddle; there are classes for native ponies, Arabs, cobs, hunters and thoroughbreds. Horses don’t need to be well-bred but should have good manners and be well schooled. Jenny says that the inspiration for giving it a go is that you will meet wonderful friendly people who help each other and have loads of fun.

If you would like to experience the ancient art of side saddle, contact the Side Saddle Association at www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk Area 7 (this area) is always looking for new members.

Preserving and remembering the age of elegant equitation is an important part of our equestrian culture and heritage so do sign up to have a go.

Jenny at Leyland Court on Nikki Stevens's Betsy

KEYNSHAM Mencap have been one of the beneficiaries of the Good Afternoon choirs, which are run by Grenville Jones, raising money for good causes.

In particular the Keynsham Good afternoon choir has raised over £2,800 for Keynsham Mencap’s Music Man Project, which offers music tuition for people with a learning disability.

It runs every Saturday morning and offers 20 members two hours of music teaching once a week, with singing and percussion as a regular feature of each session.

The support has meant the project has gone from strength to strength. Membership has grown by 50%, new instruments and new equipment have been obtained and there is a greater awareness of the project.

In April this year members joined in with other regional Music Man Project groups to perform together at the Royal Albert Hall where over 200 musicians with a learning disability from across the UK took part.

The Music Man Project has had a great year as the musicians have also performed to family and friends and to the wider community, including supporting one of the Keynsham Good afternoon Choir performances, a performance in the Keynsham Memorial park and their second Christmas fundraiser at the Methodist Church.

Alongside the Music Man Project, Keynsham Good Afternoon choir has also supported Mencap’s Super Saturday Club, a weekend social club for children with a learning disability.

Top pianist

ACCLAIMED international pianist Natalia Williams–Wandoch will play at St Mary’s Church in Yatton for Yatton Music Society on February 29th.

Originally from Poland, Natalia gave her first full-length recital at the age of 14 when she performed Chopin’s complete Op 10 etudes in the composer’s house. Since then, Natalia has won numerous prizes including every competition she entered during her Master’s degree studies at the

Royal Academy of Music.

She will play music by Chopin and Debussy that is inspired by the places and landscapes of Britain, Italy, France and beyond.

The concert starts at 7.30pm, tickets £8 society members, £10 non-members, from the church office or on the door on the night.

Details: David Ford 01934 830255 email david.ford@yms.org.uk

Panto time

MOORLIGHT Theatre’s production of Cinderella was staged at the Meyer Theatre. Millfield School over the Christmas holiday.

New musical director

SOMERSET Choral Society has welcomed Daniel Robert Cushing as their new musical director. He is a young and enthusiastic musician whose primary specialisation is in choral direction.

He will rehearse the choir for and conduct them in their next concert, Puccini’s “Messe di Gloria” and the “Duruflé Requiem” on Daniel Robert Cushing Saturday, May 16th at St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells.

As well as musical director of Somerset Choral Society, he is also musical director of The Octet and The Newton Park Singers; chorus master of the Corsley Festival Choir; and is accompanist to the Bath Celebration Choir.

Daniel is a classically trained musician who studied piano under the distinguished Maria Garcia and studied conducting with the acclaimed Francis Faux.

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 87

(Photo courtesy of Celia Hughes Tyncelyn Photography)

Choir supports young musicians

MUSIC & THEATRE

(Photo courtesy of Louis Smith)

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MENDIP TIMES

Climb to the tower and enjoy stunning views

YOU could be easily mistaken for thinking that the best hills for cycling are only to be found around the Mendip Hills. It is, after all, home to CYCLING with EDMUND some of the best LODITE known and most popular climbs that feature in major cycling events.

Yet, if you look further afield there are some treasures to be found. The area south east of Shepton Mallet is full of rolling but challenging hills on quiet lanes that make for great cycling. The best and most well known of these is Kingsettle Hill near Bruton.

Some hill climbs have a reputation for their difficulty, steepness, height or length. Others are defined by their beauty, terrain or the twists and turns uphill. But here it is the imposing tower at the top of the hill that makes it a truly iconic climb.

King Alfred’s Tower is a 49 metre high folly completed in 1772 to commemorate the end of the Seven Years War against France. It also stands near the location where it is believed that Alfred the Great, King of Wessex, rallied the Saxons in 878 AD before defeating the Danish army. As part of the Stourhead estate it is now owned and managed by the National Trust.

Visible for miles around, in almost every direction, the tower dominates the surrounding landscape like a beacon challenging any cyclist brave enough to try the ascent of its western side.

The start of the climb is approximately 5km east of Bruton and 2km south of South Brewham, at a junction close to the hamlet of Hardway (and the Bull Inn).

Approaching the tower

PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Look for a National Trust signpost by a small stone bridge – it’s an inconspicuous start that belies the true nature of what lies further ahead.

It had been a couple of years since I was last here, so approaching the hill I was looking forward to taking on the challenge again.

From the start, the hill rises very gently and not too much effort is needed. But I know this is deceiving as all the serious climbing is going to happen later on.

I keep pedalling and catch glimpses of Alfred’s Tower in the distance. The downpours of the last few days have sent water running down the road and it has now become more like a drainage channel for the waterlogged fields.

To avoid any wheel spin I keep moving to the drier parts of the narrow lane.

Gradually the gradient keeps changing upwards – never allowing me to keep a steady pace.

Just over half way up the gradient almost disappears for a short distance, but this is just the calm before the storm. In the days of old, horses would be sent into a gallop along this flatter section to gain momentum for the much steeper sections ahead.

Today you are unlikely to see a horse and cart going up here anymore but it’s still known locally as “galloping plain”.

The thought of that was a nice temporary distraction, but as I continue the hill rises sharply ahead and it’s time to dig deep. The approach into the woods is where the real climbing is about to begin.

From here, there is no need to look at my bike computer to tell me how much steeper it is getting. My legs, heart rate and breathing are all telling me this is hard – but I know I still need to leave

King Alfred's Tower

enough inside for the steepest bit near the end.

Through the trees I can see the tower looming ahead on the right and a break of light appears on the road ahead. That gives me a lift to keep going and with the hardest bit over the gradient eases momentarily, before one final push is needed to pass King Alfred’s Tower.

To get the best views from here, and if you still have the legs, it is worth walking up the 205 steps to the top of the tower (only open at weekends). Even if you don’t, you can take great pride in having reached the summit of this towering hill, a classic climb in Mendip.

Climb Stats: Distance 2.4 km; elevation gain 153m, average gradient 6.4%, max gradient 22.7%.

Elevation profile – Alfred’s Tower

Sport section.qxp_Layout 1 23/01/2020 13:55 Page 89

It was all about the sport

SPORT

GIRLS’ rugby took centre stage at Winscombe RFC with the annual clash between Winscombe Warriors and Hugh Sexey’s Middle School under the lights for the Harris Cup. Both teams fielded decent squads, with varying degrees of experience on both sides and for some players in the Hugh

Sexey’s set-up this was their first actual taste of competitive girls’ rugby.

One of the organisers from Winscombe RFC said: “The final score was not important in reality; a couple of things stood out – the spirit and courage of all the girls on the field in some very testing conditions first and foremost and then the

Yasmin and Imogen Harris – the first sisters to play in the annual fixture! Yasmin was captain and Imogen hooker

All together now – the teams at the end of the match

Aiming high for the coming season

MEMBERS of Midsomer Norton Cricket Club who attended the annual meeting were able to reflect on a season which saw the club make important progress on and off the pitch.

On the pitch, First XI skipper Martin Cox reported on the best placed finish – second place in WEPL Prem 2 – since the creation of the WEPL pyramid.

Winning nine in a row in the second half of the season left the club 13 points short of top spot after beating champions Taunton Deane in the last game of the season. Jake Rowe was the leading run scorer and Dan Chard the leading wicket taker, but the captain emphasised that success was due to teamwork.

On the last weekend of the season, both the Second and Third XIs won their matches to secure promotion. Midsomer Mavericks, Midsomer Norton Cricket Club’s women’s cricket team, retained the Somerset Cricket Board’s Softball trophy at Weston-super-Mare on the last Sunday in June after beating the top teams from across the county once again.

Off the pitch, new changing facilities were built and an extensive refurbishment of the clubhouse completed. The club received an award from Midsomer Norton Town Council at a special community service at St John’s Church in June and hosted the successful Outfield festival in August. Planning is already well in hand for this year’s event which takes place on August 30th.

Elections for club officers saw Martin Cox and Neil Brooks re-elected as First XI and Second XI captains respectively. Simone Sproates was elected as the skipper of Midsomer Mavericks. l New players of all ages and abilities – and social members – are always welcome. For more information, contact Nick Potter on 07872 383499 (nickpotter29@gmail.com) Phil Mortimer 01761 413725 (morts@tiscali.co.uk) or Jennie at angerlina1999@sky.com. You can find the club on Facebook and Twitter.

progression of the skills, be it the rucking and ball carrying from Winscombe or the defensive effort from HS – there was lots on display to think good about.

“All the Winscombe girls hope to see many of the HS girls playing with them in the Warrior’s black and white come the future.”

Race opens for entries

THE 2020 Chew Valley 10k is now open for entries. It takes place on Sunday, June 14th starting at 9.30am at Bishop Sutton Football Club and follows a scenic route around the Chew Valley.

The race is the biggest annual fundraiser for the Chew Valley School Society. This year’s race will also raise money for The Lymphoma Research Foundation, Blood Bikes NICU Support, Bishop Sutton School Society, Bishop Sutton Pre-School and local sporting organisations.

In line with the event’s aim to encourage active, healthy lifestyles for all, there is now a reduced rate for 15-18-year-olds of £15 (or £13 to UKA club runners). Entry costs £22 (£20 for UKA affiliated runners) and includes a free tech T shirt and medal.

The race will be followed by an Olympic-themed Chew Valley 1k fun run for children aged four plus.

Details: www.chewvalley10k.co.uk and follow the race on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 89

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MENDIP TIMES

One of the greats heads to Cheltenham

CLAN des Obeaux, who joined some of the horseracing greats with back-to-back victories in the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day, is set to contest the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March, trainer Paul Nicholls has said.

The horse, part-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, was paraded at his home course at Wincanton, as part of its Newcomers Day meeting.

The Ditcheat-based trainer was made an OBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours list. Paul is due to be one of the guest speakers at a Cheltenham preview event at Wincanton on Thursday, March 5th. Before then, he is expected to join other leading figures in the world of horseracing at Castle Cary Rugby Club on Friday, February 21st for a festival preview evening in aid of charity.

Paul and fellow trainers Dan Skelton and Joe Tizzard will be joined by commentator Richard Hoiles and bookmaker Andy Smith. The panel will be hosted by Alice Plunkett.

Friends from Ditcheat, Amy Derham and Danielle Baker, who are organising the evening on Friday, February 21st, are heading to the summit of Kilimanjaro in aid of Child Bereavement UK.

Paul Nicholls is interviewed by ITV Racing as Clan des Obeaux is led around parade ring

Take a bow: Clan des Obeaux was greeted with applause by the large crowd. The parade ring is usually quiet in order not to alarm horses

Jockey Bryony Frost enjoyed victory on Nearly Perfect for trainer Neil King...

PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

… but her rides for Paul Nicholls later in the day, including here on Southfield Harvest, owned by Mrs Angela Yeoman, were not as successful

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SPORT

Players tip the wink once more TIDDLYWINKS players from the University of Cambridge gathered at Emborough once again for their annual Somerset Invitational tournament.

Held over two days at the Old Down Inn, the contest featured singles and pairs competitions.

The overall winner, for the third year in a row, was Tim Hunt, who read maths at Cambridge and now works for the Open University in Milton Keynes.

Cambridge is regarded as the country’s – if not the world’s – tiddlywinks stronghold, dating back to 1955 when the Cambridge University Tiddlywinks Club was founded.

It holds regular tournaments throughout the academic year.

Tim battles to retain his crown

Let battle commence: Back (l:r) Tim Hunt, Nick Inglis, Phil Buckham-Bonnett and Stewart Sage. Front (l:r) Harley Jones and Kat Drew

Nailing it: Kat practices her moves

For details, visit: www.cutwc.org.uk

Chew go top of the league

CHEW Valley Rugby have had a dream start to the year by going top of South West 1 in their first season after winning promotion.

After narrow away victories against Cleve and Thornbury, they beat Crediton 57-26 to go top in front of a

The sixth try

Chew's line-out in action

big home crowd. Crediton were also promoted this season after beating Midsomer Norton in the play-offs.

Chew Valley now face tough fixtures against Devonport Services and Hornets, Weston.

MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 91

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MENDIP TIMES

Mendip’s “snowdrop town”

PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Congresbury

21

Winscombe

CHEW MAGNA

Churchill BLAGDON

Banwell

A3 6

Hutton

A3 7 Timsbury

8

Wellow

Paulton Midsomer Norton

AXBRIDGE

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SHEPTON Mallet, the birthplace of “Snowdrop King” James Allen, is preparing to celebrate the famous plant at its annual festival in February.

Snowdrop experts will be sharing their knowledge over the weekend of Saturday, February 15th and Sunday, February 16th, along with nurseries specialising in one of the nation’s most popular species.

James Allen was a Victorian galanthophile who successfully developed the type of cultivated snowdrops we enjoy today. One of the features of the weekend will be a snowdrop trail, taking in the historic houses where James Allen was born, lived and cultivated snowdrops, and died.

Kilver Court Garden, East Lambrook Manor, Ston Easton and Yeo Valley Organic Gardens are all opening specially for the festival.

Avon Bulbs and Triffids Nursery will be selling from their extensive collection. Kapunda Plants will be displaying and selling Lenten Hellebores, and In Clover will have native plants and a range of handmade willowcraft for the garden. Elsworthy Cottage Garden Plants will also be in attendance.

Also at the festival will be poetry and photographic competitions, workshops for children and adults, art and craft including work by Somerset sculptor, Chris Kampf, a Sunday market Strolls, heritage walks and fringe events, including an evening Floral Ball at the ArtBank Cafe.

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Market set to be a blooming success

WHAT’S ON (Photograph courtesy of Rosalind Furlong)

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THE first Shepton Mallet independent market of the year will coincide with the town’s annual Snowdrop Festival on Sunday, February 16th.

Some traders will also be taking part in a snowdropSpice up Valentine’s weekend with a themed market on Saturday, February 15th visit to the Shepton Mallet after the two organisations independent market – The Shepton Experience and the Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival – agreed to join forces for the weekend.

The main market on Sunday will offer more stalls, some returning from last year and a few new traders too, as well as free parking during the day. Jude Jackson, a spokesperson for The Shepton Experience, said: “We are really looking forward to working with the organisers of the two-day Snowdrop Festival to start our year off. It was very exciting for us when they asked that we collaborate with them on this and bring the two events together for our town, surrounding villages and visitors to the area.”

For details, visit the market’s Facebook/Instagram page: @thesheptonexperience, on the web at : www.thesheptonexperience.co.uk or by email: info@thesheptonexperience.co.uk

It’s the one that you want

THE box office is now open for the Wells Festival of Film outdoor screening of Grease Sing-Along taking place at The Bishop's Palace on Friday, April 24th.

Sally Cooper from Wells Film Centre, which organises the annual celebration of the big screen, said: “It is great to be working together again with The Bishop’s Palace for the outdoor screening.”

The film has a PG certificate. Tickets cost £20 for adults; £18 for children and include a hog roast. Gates open at 6.30pm.

For details, visit: www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

Starts Friday 7th February Starts Friday 14th February Starts Friday 21st February Starts Friday 6th March

EVENT CINEMA FOR FEBRUARY

Dolittle (PG) • Birds Of Prey (15) Emma (tbc) • Sonic (PG) Call Of The Wild (PG) • Greed (15) Military Wives (12A) Kinky Boots (12A) Tues 4th 7.30pm & Sun 9th 4.30pm Cyrano De Bergerac (15) Thurs 20th 7pm The Cellist Tues 25th 7.15pm

l Book in person l Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk l Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

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MENDIP TIMES

Snowdrops and love at the Bishop’s Palace

THE Bishop’s Palace’s Snowdrop Celebrations are set to return, but this year will run for three consecutive weekends.

Begun in 2018, visitors have enjoyed the carpets of snowdrops around the palace in Wells and last year over 1600 visitors saw this spectacle. For 2020 three consecutive weekends will be offered to cover the peak of the snowdropflowering season starting on February 8th and 9th, 10am4pm.

There will be a printed snowdrop walk to guide visitors around the moat banks carpeted with snowdrops and it will lead them across the willow bridge to enjoy an arboretum full of different varieties of spectacular snowdrops.

Each weekend, there will also be a range of children’s crafting activities in the Undercroft, based on a snowdrop theme and a children’s trail to lead them around the site.

A variety of craft stalls and spring plants and snowdrops will be for sale in the Stable Yard and free area, with a varying offer each weekend.

So, head over to the palace this February to celebrate the beginning of spring and to enjoy these beautiful flowers in a stunning setting.

The palace is also offering a different Valentine’s night experience, with an evening of luscious stories and heartwarming songs with storyteller Beth Webb and singersongwriter, Dora Darling.

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The medieval Undercroft will host a magical evening of tales and songs about love that truly works; where trust and faithfulness are rewarded. Tickets are priced at £15 each and include pink fizz and light snacks.

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New date for lantern festival

ORGANISERS of the postponed Shepton Mallet Lantern Festival have announced a rearranged date for the tenth anniversary parade.

The community event will now take place on Saturday, February 1st, starting from the town’s Collett Park at 6pm. Kate Lovell, festival chair, said: “We are delighted that the parade will go ahead on this new date, which is also Candlemas, the Barbara Pearce’s Emperor traditional end of penguin Christmas celebrations.”

The parade was postponed in December because of adverse weather. The tenth anniversary parade will be led by the Great Shepton Ram lantern, accompanied by more than 100 lantern bearers. The fantastical creations will include angels, stars, a whale, a snowman, a polar bear, a jellyfish, a kingfisher and a wonderful Emperor penguin.

Barbara Pearce, who made the Emperor penguin, said: “It is my very first lantern! I couldn’t have done it without the help of Dominic Weston from the Lantern Festival and I am very grateful to him.” l The parade processes around the park, taking in the boats of the Shepton Mallet Drifters Club on the pond, and then along Park Road to the Market Place led by Jamma de Samba band. There will be food and drink available.

WHAT’S ON

New nursery at Puxton Park

BUSY Buddies Nursery will be opening in April at Puxton Park. The nursery and forest school are set within the stunning scenery and vast grounds of Puxton Park where children will not only be provided with the finest nursery care, but they will also be immersed in a unique childcentred environment allowing them to play, learn and grow.

The nursery is owned and managed by Justine and Chris Bristow, who both have a portfolio of extended Early Years training. Together, they will provide a home-away-fromhome, fun, safe, caring and educational environment for children three months to five years.

Justine Bristow said: "The children will be supported and guided on their journey by a team of dedicated staff with experience, qualifications and a shared passion for caring and educating children, whilst committing themselves and the setting to continuous learning and professional development."

Alistair Mead, managing director of Puxton Park, said: “We’ve always had a deep-rooted passion for supporting educational facilities that will benefit the local community.

We feel that children at Busy Buddies Nursery will not only benefit from their years of childcare experience, but also benefit from the creative environment that will encourage them to grow up with a love for the great outdoors."

Details: www.busybuddiesdaycare.co.uk or call 07917 225914

Lanterns in Blagdon

BLAGDON will be leaping and flying into spring with its annual lantern parade on Saturday, February 29th.

Everyone is welcome and the parade will start at the New Inn car park, overlooking the lake, at 5.30pm. Whilst lighting up the sky participants will wander along footpaths and pavements accompanied by a walking band to end at Blagdon Primary school for some food and drinks provided by the Blagdon PTA. Before the parade there will be a lantern making workshop at Blagdon Village Club on Saturday, February 22nd 11am-4pm.

Lantern making kits will also be available from Blagdon village shop for £4 from the middle of February.

Details: Blagdon Lantern Parade Facebook page or contact blagdonlanternparade@gmail.com

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Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of less than 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. We may not be able to use entries which are too lengthy or submitted as posters or leaflets. Commercial entries cost £25.

Wednesday January 29th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support meeting 1.30pm Backwell WI Hall. Talk by a consultant from Bristol Eye Hospital. All welcome. Details: 01275 462107.

Harptrees History Society talk “The Normans in Somerset”, Chris Eldridge, 7.30pm West Harptree Hall BS40 6EB. Details: 01761 221941.

Thursday January 30th Mendip Ramblers moderate 6m Frome circle: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Cheddar Stage Society Open Evening, 6.308.30pm Methodist Church Hall, BS27 3PL. Amateur dramatics, everyone over 12yrs welcome! Please come and find out about joining us.

Storytime free drop-in for ages 0-5, 1010.30am. Midsomer Norton Library, BA3 2DP. Saturday February 1st RNLI Folk Night: Jez Lowe 8pm St James Hall Winscombe. Bar. Tickets £12: 07703 538861 or winscombe.folk@gmail.com All proceeds to RNLI. Mendip Society Walk: moderate 4 to 5m from Winford. Details: www.themendipsociety.org.uk Story telling evening with soup for supper, 6pm St Bartholomew's Church, Ubley BS40 6PJ. Tickets £10 from Colin 01275 332735.

Kingston Seymour Market 10am-12pm village hall. Fairtrade goods, cakes, crafts: 01934 830553.

Sunday February 2nd Mendip Ramblers moderate 12m Tower to Tower leg 2 www.mendipramblers.co.uk Monday February 3rd Jazz at The Old Mill pub Portishead, 8.30– 10.30pm. New Orleans, Trad. £5 upstairs room.

Details 01934 838017.

Tuesday February 4th ‘The anatomical drawings of Leonardo da Vinci’ talk for Arts Society Mendip from retired surgeon Guy Rooker, 11am Strode Theatre, Street, BA16 0AB www.theartssocietymendip.org.uk. Guests welcome by arrangement: 01934 862435.

Britain’s Ancient Forest, Somerset Wildlife Trust talk, 8pm Caryford Hall, BA7 7JJ. Refreshments from 7.30pm. £3 adults.

Wells S.P.A singles social group meets every Tues evening 8pm Tramways, West St BA5 2HN. Details: Jackie 07707528346 or www.spasinglesocialgroup.co.uk Wednesday February 5th Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers & ex-carers. Cyril Routley (Gadgets from Yesteryear). Backwell WI Hall 2-3.30pm.

Thursday February 6th Mendip Ramblers moderate 6m White Sheet Hill, Mid Wilts Way www.mendipramblers.co.uk Yatton Cancer café, 2-4pm, St Mary’s Chapter House, for anyone living with cancer, their family and friends. We offer a warm welcome, support, companionship, activities and cake!

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Congresbury Folk Club launch night! Two live performances + folk DJ. £4 on door, Congresbury Memorial Hall, High St BS49 5JA. Details: Facebook.

Storytime free drop-in for ages up to 5. 1010.30am. Midsomer Norton Library, BA3 2DP. Chatter Books reading group for 7-11’s, 3.45 –4.45pm, register in branch: Midsomer Norton Library.

Congresbury Gardening Club "Something Old Something New”speaker David Usher, Methodist Hall 7.30pm, visitors welcome.

Friday February 7th Redhill Club Open Mic Night 8pm-11pm hosted by Jerry Blythe: 07900 587646. Free entry, all welcome.

Shared Reading groups, every Friday. Join in or just enjoy listening. Glastonbury library 10.30am-12noon; Wells library 11am-12.30.

Details: 0151 7292200.

Saturday February 8th Mendip Society Walk: moderate 5.5 miles from Stowey: www.themendipsociety.org.uk Les Davies Orchard Day Congresbury 10am– 3.30pm, Old School Rooms. All you need to know to prune. Morning & afternoontea/coffee provided. BYO lunch. £25, to book: Ally 07814 155703.

Frome Memorial Theatre: ABBA Forever – In Concert 7.30pm. Tickets £22.50 (£21.50) from 01373 462795 or www.fmt.website Winscombe Big Book Sale 9am-12.30pm Community Centre, Sandford Rd. Refreshments. Free entry. Details 01934 843986.

Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws, dvds.

Frome Civic Society and FSLS Andy Linham – Remembering the Somerset and Dorset Railway, Assembly Rooms, 2.30pm.

Saturday February 8th to Saturday March 14th Fifty Bees 4: Work inspired by British bees.

Black Swan Arts, Frome BA11 1BB, Mon to Sat, 10am–4pm www.blackswanarts.org.uk 01373 473980.

Sunday February 9th Mendip Ramblers moderate 10m The Polden Way: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Oxfam quiz at the Britannia Inn, Wells. 7.30pm start. Teams of up to six, £2.50pp. Raffle prizes welcome. Please book: Terry 01749 672342.

Monday February 10th “Everyday Life in Roman Britain” by Garry Gowans for Nailsea & District Local History Society. 7.45pm, Green Lecture Room, Nailsea School. Visitors £2. www.ndlhs.org.uk Mendip Folk Dance Club 8pm-10 St James Church Hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. No experience necessary. Details: Pat 01935 742853.

Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome.

Tuesday February 11th Fosseway Gardening Club “Climbers Galore”

by Christopher Bond, 7.30pm Pylle Village Hall, nr Shepton Mallet. Visitors welcome.

Details: 07772 008594.

Wednesday February 12th Kilmersdon Gardeners AGM then talk by

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Diana Walker on "wildlife in the garden" 7.30pm village hall BA3 5TD. Visitors £3 www.kilmersdongardeners.org Mendip Ploughing Society Film Night: the 150th Ploughing Match, 7.30pm, The Wellsway West Harptree BS40 6EJ. Tickets £10 incl. buffet from: Judith 07783 709619.

Nailsea Horticultural Society talk by Nicholas Wray on Garden Plants & their pollinators.

7.30pm United Reformed Church Hall.

Wells Civic Society, a year in the life with Alastair Tighe, head of Wells Cathedral School, Wells and Mendip Museum, 7.30pm.

Thursday February 13th Mendip Ramblers moderate 6m Nine Barrows & Priddy circle www.mendipramblers.co.uk Storytime free drop-in for ages up to 5. 1010.30am. Midsomer Norton Library, BA3 2DP. Adult social table tennis all abilities 7.15pm Compton Dando village hall £3pp. Details: richardjamesdavis@hotmail.com Friday February 14th Frome Memorial Theatre: Elkie Brooks – Live in Concert 7.30pm, tickets £29.50 from 01373 462795.

“Beloved” – Tales of love gone right! with storyteller Beth Webb & singer-songwriter, Dora Darling at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, 79pm. Tickets £15 each, incl pink fizz and snacks from 01749 988111 or www.bishopspalace.org.uk Saturday February 15th Mendip Society Walk: easy 5m from Coleford: www.themendipsociety.org.uk Claverham Village Market 10am–noon, village hall Bishops Rd. Food, plant, craft & book stalls, details 01934 838017.

Wells Repair Café 10-12.45pm St Thomas' Hall. Bring things for repair, learn from craft stallholders and enjoy coffee and cake! www.sustainablewells.org.uk Tom McConville Band, Meadway Hall, Compton Dundon, 7.30 for 8pm. £10 from Simon 01458 445463 or cdvillagehall@gmail.com Coffee morning 10am-noon Friends of St. Peter & All Hallows Church, West Huntspill.

Bottle Stall, Bring and Buy. £3 incl tea/coffee and cake. U10s free.

Sunday February 16th Adult social table tennis all abilities 2.30pm Compton Dando village hall £3pp details:richardjamesdavis@hotmail.com Mid-Somerset Show Society: Hedgelaying competition, vintage tractor run, Land Rover meet. Hill House Farm, Launcherley, Wells BA5 1QJ. Details: 01749 938044/890614. www.midsomersetshow.org.uk Monday February 17th Back in Time – Winscombe & Sandford in 60s with archive photos & report of Millennium Green. Winscombe Community Centre, BS25 1JA, 7.30pm. All welcome.

Fagus AGM. Talk by Drummond Forbes "The Penicillin Fungus; the importance of fungi in the garden" 7.30pm Nailsea Methodist Church BS48 2AA. “Madagascars” talk by Ed Drewitt for Timsbury Natural History Group, 7.30pm Conygre Hall, Timsbury. Non-members welcome, £3.

Mendip Postcard Club meeting, Wells Town

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Hall, 7.30pm. Talk by Andrew Boatswain on “Life in a Victorian Workhouse”. Visitors welcome. Details: Francis 01458 831242.

Tuesday February 18th THE BARN POETS meet at Bookbarn, Hallatrow, BS39 6EX. Café 6.30pm for readings 7-8.15pm. Poets, readers, listeners welcome!

Bleadon Horticultural Society: talk by Laura Batt 'Helping hedgehogs in your garden & surrounding area', 7.30pm Coronation Hall BS24 0PG. All welcome £2.

Wednesday February 19th Henton & District Gardening Club “Walking in Paradise Gardens” by the Rev David Thomas 7.30pm village hall BS5 1PD. Visitors welcome, £3 incl coffee www.hentongardenclub.weebly.com Thursday February 20th Frome Memorial Theatre: Alan Titchmarsh “Trowel & Error” 7.30pm, tickets £26 from 01373 462795 www.fmt.website Mendip Gardening Club "No Dig Gardening" with Stephanie Hafferty 7.30pm Ston Easton Village hall www.mendipgardeningclub.com Soup & Pud Lunch in aid of the Children's Society in the Seager Hall, Wells 12-2pm £7.50.

Friday February 21st Race night + Fish’n’Chip supper, Cheddar Parish Room 7pm for Inner Wheel Charities.

Details: Angie 01934 712242 / 07976 206944.

Ceilidh Kilmersdon Village Hall BA3 5TD. £10 U15, £5 from Penny 01761 435193, Martin 01761 437372 or phil@fourfootfour.com www.fourfootfour.com/Kilmersdon-Ceilidh-21February-2020.html Saturday February 22nd Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws, dvds.

Frome Civic Society and FSLS Adrian Tinniswood – Behind the Throne: A Domestic History of the Royal Household, Assembly Rooms, 2.30pm.

Saturday February 22nd and Sunday 23rd Snowdrop Festival at the Bishop’s Palace, Wells. Includes Heads Up craft stall at which all items are made by clients and volunteers so profits directly benefit clients & carers.

Sunday February 23rd First Aid Course 9am-1pm Langport Red Cross Centre. Open to all, this will teach the basic skills necessary to preserve life and stabilise casualties until the professionals arrive.

Cost £35 will be a donation to Langport & District Red Cross Group. To book: 01458 273085 or cox.cj@btinternet.com Mendip Society Walk: Moderate 4.5 miles from Timsbury: www.themendipsociety.org.uk Monday February 24th Mendip Folk Dance Club 8pm-10 St James Church Hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. No experience necessary. Details: Pat 01935 742853.

Green Gardeners. Paul Gumbleton talk 'Alluring Alpines' Parish Rooms Somerton 7.30.

Visitors welcome £3.

Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome.

Tuesday February 25th Chilcompton Garden Club 7.30pm Village

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Hall, 7.30pm. Talk by Lady Christine Skelmersdale, from Broadleigh Bulbs, about a year-round bulb garden.

Mendip Society talk: ‘Caving & Cave Rescue’

by Martin Grass of Mendip Cave Rescue.

2.30pm Wells Museum BA5 2UE. East Harptree Shrove Tuesday Pancake Races, 11am Whitecross Road, women’s, men’s and children’s races. Donations to East Harptree Children’s Playground Upkeep Fund.

Wednesday February 26th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support meeting 1.30pm Backwell WI Hall. Talk by Vision North Somerset on vision aids. All welcome. Contact 01275 462107.

Baby Bounce & Rhyme free drop-in for ages up to 3 from 10.30 –11am. Midsomer Norton Library, BA3 2DP. Harptrees History Society talk by Jo & Kevin Brown "Perfect & Fresh: memorialising the dead in paint" 7.30 West Harptree Hall BS40 6EB. Details 01761 221758 or 221941.

Thursday February 27th Mendip Ramblers moderate 6m in the Oakhill area www.mendipramblers.co.uk Storytime free drop-in for ages up to 5. 1010.30am. Midsomer Norton Library, BA3 2DP. Chew Valley Wildlife Group: Secret World, Wildlife Rescue aims to rescue, rehabilitate and release orphaned and injured animals. Talk by Jamie Kingscott, 7.45pm Chew Magna Old School Room, £2.50.

Adult Social table tennis all abilities 7.15pm Compton Dando village hall £3pp. Details: Richard Davis 07968 269841.

Friday February 28th Frome Memorial Theatre: Marty Wilde & the Wildcats, 7.30pm, tickets £25: 01373 462795 www.fmt.website Saturday February 29th Blagdon Lantern Parade 5.30pm from New Inn to the school. Lantern making workshop at the village club on Sat 22nd, 11am-4pm.

Details: blagdonlanternparade@gmail.com Natalia Williams-Wandoch piano concert, 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Yatton, Tickets £10 or £8 YMS members, details: www.yms.org.uk Cam Valley Arts Trail workshops Timsbury Conygre Hall to fund free taster art sessions at the group’s annual autumn arts trail. Details: www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk Community Archaeology Day Somerset Archaeological & Natural History Society (01823 272429). Shipham village hall, BS25 1SG. Rag Mama Rag: 20s & 30s blues-based duo.

Market House, Castle Cary. Tickets £12 www.wegottickets.com/event/474783. Door s 18.45, Cash bar.

Community Festival of Singing. Workshops 2pm St Thomas' Church, Wells. £10, no singing

WHAT’S ON

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experience needed. Participants invited to sing in concert at 7pm. For Heads Up. Art & Craft Workshops by Cam Valley Arts Group Conygre Hall, Timsbury BA2 0JQ. Book from February 1st: www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk Mendip Society Walk: moderate 4 to 5m from Wrington: www.themendipsociety.org.uk Sunday March 1st Mendip Ramblers moderate 10m around Castle Cary & Bruton, www.mendipramblers.co.uk Monday March 2nd Mendip Ramblers easy 3m cup of tea walk Oakhill: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Tuesday March 3rd Wells S.P.A singles social group meets every Tues evening 8pm Tramways, West St BA5 2HN. Details Jackie 07707528346 or www.spasinglesocialgroup.co.uk ‘Ancient Egyptians artistry in glass’ talk by Lucia Gahlin for The Arts Society Mendip 11am Strode Theatre, Street, www.theartssocietymendip.org.uk. Guests welcome by arrangement, 01934 862435.

Wednesday March 4th Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers and ex-carers. North Somerset Birds of Prey, live bird/animal display/talk. Backwell WI Hall 2-3.30pm.

Thursday March 5th Mendip Ramblers mod 6.8m Great Elm, East Mendip Way, Whatley www.mendipramblers.co.uk Yatton Cancer café, 2-4pm, St Mary’s Chapter House, for anyone living with cancer, their family and friends. We offer a warm welcome, support, companionship, activities and cake!

Congresbury Folk Club two live performances + folk DJ. Congresbury Memorial Hall, High St BS49 5JA. Details: Facebook.

Congresbury Gardening Club "Lift the Latch, an all-year-round garden" with Pauline & David Wright. Methodist Hall 7.30.

Storytime free drop-in for 0-5yrs, 10-10.30am Midsomer Norton Library BS3 2DP. Chatter Books reading group for 7-11s, 3.354.45pm, register in branch: Midsomer Norton Library.

Charity Theatre trip to Bristol Hippodrome: Matthew Bourne’s “The Red Shoes”. Details: 01458 273085 or www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk Friday March 6th Shared Reading groups, every Friday. Join in or just enjoy listening. Glastonbury library 10.30am-12; Wells library 11am-2.30. Details: 0151 7292200.

FEBRUARY CROSSWORD SOLUTION

ACROSS: 1. Remedial 5. Hermit 10. Persona non grata 11. Assumed 12. Elastic 13. Turncoat 15. Emcee 18. Abyss 20. Ennobles 23. Tetanus 25. Scrummy 26.

Tensile strength 27. Scythe 28. Cocklake DOWN: 1. Repeat 2. Marksbury 3. Doorman 4. Award 6. Engrave 7. Meant 8.

Thatcher 9. Somerton 14. Overstep 16. Chew Magna 17. Lactates 19. Sunfish 21.

Berserk 22. Lychee 24. Tunny 25. Set-to MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020 • PAGE 97

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Support for the countryside – a silver celebration

WHAT’S ON

CELEBRATING 25 years, the West of England Game Fair will return to the Royal Bath and West Showground near Shepton Mallet on Saturday, March 21st and Sunday, March 22nd.

This important countryside event, which is supported by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation and Countryman’s Weekly, creates a platform for countryside traditions and issues to be promoted and supported, as well as offering a fantastic weekend.

The show has a wonderful mix of have-a-go activities including archery, air rifles, terrier and lurcher shows, family dog show, clay shooting; bush craft, long-bow making demonstrations and blacksmithing.

There will also be fascinating displays both indoor and outdoor with top names in the areas of falconry, wildfowling, ferreting, gun dog training and more; educational insights into a variety of countryside issues and sports and a fabulous countryside shopping village all under cover in five halls!

A wide variety of companies will be selling a range of products from country clothing, guns, deer stalking equipment to gundog equipment, local food and drink and crafts. The Rural Life hall will also have a selection of local produce, have-a-go crafts and also wonderful animals including miniature donkeys.

BASC plays a prominent role at each event providing shooting coaching, gundog scurries (part of the BASC Scurry League, sponsored by Skinners Field and Trial) and sharing their knowledge and expertise on their trade stand in the shopping village on the Showering Pavilion balcony, with

features including a wildfowlers row; shooting simulator and artists area.

In addition, the cookery theatre will host a variety of chefs all with simple, easy to follow delicious game recipes. l You can keep up to date with everything happening at the show by visiting www.contour.uk.net or join their Facebook group and following them on Instagram and Twitter. For exhibitor enquiries, please call 01392 421500. For discounted advanced tickets visit www.contour.uk.net or call the ticket office on 01749 813899.

Visitors can expect to see some amazing birds of prey in action

Lurcher alert – dog shows put the skills of owners and animals to the test

February get together for Chew Valley Connect

CHEW Valley Connect, which brings together older people in the area to meet over a sociable cup of tea, chat with old friends and make new ones, will be holding its next monthly meeting on Wednesday, February 19th at 3pm at The Woodford, by Chew Valley Lake.

Organisers say it’s a chance for a get together and also for people with similar interests to make connections and plan together to go for walks, the cinema, or other shared interests, or simply meet for a chat.

For details, visit: chewvalleyconnect.uk

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • FEBRUARY 2020

Ferret racing is always a popular family attraction

WIN GAME FAIR TICKETS

MENDIP Times has teamed up with the organisers of the West of England Game Fair to offer two readers a pair of day tickets each to the show on Saturday, March 20th or Sunday, March 21st.

To enter, please answer the following question: Whereabouts will visitors be able to see some miniature donkeys?

Please send your answers on a postcard to: Game Fair Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon BS40 7RG. Answers must reach us by Monday, February 17th. The first two correct entries chosen will each win a pair of tickets valid for any one day of the show. The editor’s decision is final.

(Photograph courtesy of Red Racing Images Photography)

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