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MENDIP TIMES
CONTENTS
Welcome
IT’S hard to believe that this is our 14th anniversary issue! Back in 2005 few people thought any print publication had a future. Yet we have grown year-on-year with tremendous support from advertisers, readers and contributors to become the most popular local magazine in Somerset. We also have a huge following on our website, Mendip Online. Once again this month we devote a lot of space to local charities, community groups and voluntary organisations, all of whom make Mendip such a special place. And we are proud to reflect that despite the cost of extra pages. We have picture specials from various festivals and shows, including Mells Daffodil Festival and North Somerset Show, and look ahead to the Royal Bath and West Show and the International Air Day at Yeovilton – with the chance to win tickets – as well as various festivals and events. Our What’s On section reflects what a busy area we live in, while our Business pages show what a vibrant place Mendip is. We have a special Focus on Wrington. We also report on the Mendip Table Skittles finals and have coverage of local duck races. That’s proper Mendip! To all of our regular contributors and advertisers – thank you for your support. Mendip Times could not remain a free magazine without you. July 2019 deadline: Friday, 14th June 2019. Published: Tuesday, 25th June 2019. Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk Rachael Abbott rachael@mendiptimes.co.uk Publisher: Mendip Times Limited Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone:
01761 463888
or: email news@mendiptimes.co.uk or: letters@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: Precision Colour Printing, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Copyright of editorial content held by Mendip Times Ltd. and its contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the Publisher. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the publisher or its associates. Front cover montage by Steve Henderson.
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Fairground attraction – book celebrates showman’s history
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Impish behaviour – North Somerset Show in pictures
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Give us a smile – Shepton’s festival of dogs
High fives – softball cricket is thriving Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE ..........10 Internet and Crossword ..............16 Food & Drink ...............................20 Arts & Antiques ...........................30 Business.........................................40 Charities........................................54 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......65 Walking Sue Gearing ....................66 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........68
Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......70 Property ........................................81 Caving Phil Hendy ........................89 Health Dr Phil Hammond .............94 Community .................................100 Homes and Interiors ..................108 Music & Theatre ........................112 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE...114 Sport ............................................116 What’s On...................................122 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 3
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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
As we mentioned last month we shall be at the Bath and West Show (which runs from 29th May until 1st June) every day, sponsoring Power of the Past, and we would encourage anyone who is at the show to call in to see us for a glass of wine and a chat. Whilst we are happy to talk business with anyone who wishes to do so, our intention is to meet with as many clients and other contacts as possible in an informal and relaxed setting. Our tent is right next to the main ring, so you won’t have to miss any of the action. For the past several years the weather has been very pleasant and this year the forecast is looking good. It is now nearly a year since we moved to our new premises in Castle Cary and two years since we moved to new premises at Cheddar. We have recruited some key members of staff across the firm and will write more on that next month.
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
NEWS
Fairground family legend remembered
HISTORY authors Richard Green and Guy Belshaw launched their new book about one of the region’s best-know fairground showmen at the Wells May Charter Fair. Big Shows: The Charles Heal and Sons Story tells about Glastonbury-based Charles Heal setting up his business in the town in the mid-19th century, going on to run a very successful fairground business having at their peak, two touring sections of amusements, with Charles Heal jnr. – who inherited the business aged 17 when his father died – being the most famous for his philanthropist work and also one of the founder members of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain. Charles Heal jnr. helped donate one of ten ambulances during WWI and during WWII he and fellow guild members raised enough funds to purchase a Spitfire. Locally in Wells, Charles Heal staged many benefit nights for the cottage hospital, going towards an extension to the building. Every year at the November Carnival Charter Fair, the Charles Heal perpetual Silver Cup is annually awarded during the carnival presentations. After his death during the 1950 Wells May Charter Fair his funeral in Bristol saw thousands of people line the streets as his hearse and two carriages of flowers and a line of 31 coaches made up the long procession. Today his great, great grandson Shaun Rogers now presents the twice-yearly events in the Market Square in Wells and the book concludes with a section on the Rogers
Town crier Len Sweales announces the opening of the fair
Richard (left) and Guy at the book launch
family’s links to the area. Richard Green of Wells and Guy Belshaw of Wellington are both honorary members of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain.
Fun on the dodgems for civic guests Dick Skidmore, the 2018/19 chair of Mendip District Council and his wife Jean
The book is available from Wells and Mendip Museum and by mail order from www.fairground-heritage.org.uk
Poppy tribute raises thousands
SALES of silk poppies created by children which covered the Wells Bishop’s Palace lawn for Remembrance Day last November have raised thousands of pounds for the city’s Royal British Legion branch. The Somerset Poppies project was overseen by local artist Dan Vidler. It saw more than 4,000 children create nearly 8,000 poppies, each one commemorating a Somerset serviceman who lost his life in World War One. l So far, £3,750 has been raised. Some of the poppies are still for sale at Wells Reclamation Centre at Coxley and at Coxley School.
Dan Vidler (left) and Aaron Cooper-Collett, chairman of the Wells RBL branch MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 5
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MENDIP TIMES
Measuring Mendip visitors numbers
Garden plan
THE Community Farm next to Chew Valley Lake has won £38,300 of National Lottery funding to create a Feel Good Garden. It will include a pond with dipping platform, shrub and fruit tree planting and landscaping and access routes to the site. The farm says it will be a safe space to take time out, immerse yourself in nature and enjoy lovely lake views.
Plant a tree with the YFC Crook Peak
STAFF and volunteers from the Mendip Hills AONB unit have carried out The 2019 Mendip Hills AONB Big Visitor Count. Together they counted 2,589 visits at 16 locations, across a four-hour period. They were at sites across the Mendip Hills, from Bleadon Hill and Crook Peak in the west to Ebbor Gorge and Deer Leap in the south-east, with 12 more sites in between, including the nature reserves on the plateau, the lakes, forests and, of course, the iconic Cheddar Gorge. As expected, the most visits were recorded at Chew Valley Lake and Cheddar Gorge, with high numbers also seen at Kings Wood. Significant numbers were also recorded on footpaths high up on Mendip – on the plateau and at Crook Peak and Black Down. The two locations with the fewest visits included Deer Leap and Bleadon Hill – at both ends of the AONB. Kelly Davies, a research volunteer with the AONB unit who coordinated the survey, said: "I really enjoyed helping prepare the survey but also with the visitor count on the day. “I spoke to a wide range of people including walkers out practising for the Mendip Way Challenge, mountain bikers enjoying the dry conditions and horse riders enjoying a leisurely ride to the pub for lunch! The last group of people that I counted was a family walking up the combe to play in the stream. A great way to spend a day." Jim Hardcastle, manager of the Mendip Hills AONB said: “We really need to understand the visitor pressure on sites in the Mendip Hills. It's too easy to say that 'it's really busy', we need evidence. “We appreciate that that this count only forms a baseline and the real value will come when we repeat it each year and can compare numbers. We'll also combine this with data from other sources to help inform the management of the AONB for wildlife and visitors alike, helping to identify issues and opportunities to better conserve and enhance our beautiful landscape. “All the statistics will be sent to our partners and then placed on our website, eventually this will form part of the State of the AONB report published prior to each management plan." Details: http://www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk/caringabout-the-aonb/management-plan/
PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
MEMBERS of Wedmore Young Farmers are supporting the national YFC’s campaign to protect the environment. They have been given 420 saplings and are looking for suitable places to plant them on land accessible to the public. This might include sports fields, public parks, village halls, pub beer gardens, as well as land accessed via public footpath. Spokesman, Jack Nicholls, said: “Our aim is to create a planting scheme that is suitable to the area being planted not only to boost wildlife but also be aesthetically pleasing for the public to enjoy. It is important that areas selected are appropriate for growth of the trees in the future years.” The YFC national campaign says: “We're losing our incredible wildlife at an alarming rate. Between 1970 and 2013, 56% of species in the UK declined. Are you worried about this? “As chaperones of the land we farm we wish to #protectyourfuture along with the wildlife and climate within.” Wedmore YFC would like to hear from anyone with suitable land or from volunteers willing to help with planting. Details: yfcfreetree@gmail.com or call 0747 9829277.
Wedmore gives thumbs-up to plan
A VOTE on whether people living in the parish of Wedmore wanted Sedgemoor District Council to use their neighbourhood plan when deciding planning applications has come out heavily in favour of the proposal. The results of the referendum on Thursday, May 2nd were 881 in favour and 149 against. The referendum asked voters the question: "Do you want Sedgemoor District Council to use the neighbourhood plan for Wedmore to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?” A neighbourhood plan sets out planning policy for a neighbourhood and once adopted by the district council becomes the main document against which planning applications in the area must be judged. It can, for example, identify key priorities for a community that relate to use of land; define where new homes, commercial premises or other development should be built and influence what new buildings should look like. It can also protect locally-valued buildings or open green space but it cannot be used to stop development or override district or national policy. The plan has been created by local residents, groups, Wedmore Parish Council and Sedgemoor District Council.
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ENVIRONMENT
Wells welcomes new arrivals
A NEW pair of swans has been introduced to the moat around the Bishop’s Palace in Wells. The pair – now named Gabriel and Grace – have replaced Wynn, who outlived her lifelong mate Bryn and left the moat after raising their final brood. Staff at the palace were keen to find a new pair of swans, in order to keep up the centuries-old tradition of bell-ringing swans on the moat but wanted to make sure that Wynn had definitely left her home before introducing any new ones. The tradition was begun by the daughter of Lord Auckland, who was bishop at the palace in the 1800s. The new pair of swans were brought to Wells by Swan Rescue South Wales, based in Newport. Previously residing in Droitwich, the pair were living in a home which had turned out to be unsuitable for their needs, but the palace moat, with its large expanse of water and plentiful supply of food should be an ideal location. It is thought that they are a breeding pair, so staff are hopeful that they may see cygnets on the moat again in due course. Moira Anderson, whose role includes looking after the swans, said: “I am so looking forward to getting to know this lovely pair of swans and helping them to get comfortable in their new home. I will be teaching them to use the famous swan bell and ask the public to bear with us whilst training is taking place!” The palace is adding an extra bell on the other side of the medieval gatehouse to offer visitors a better chance of seeing the Swanning around – an extra bell will swans maintain the be installed on this side of the gatehouse tradition.
The Bishop of Taunton, the Rt Rev Ruth Worsley, lends a hand before blessing the new arrivals
The pair prepare to take to the moat for the first time
“Bring out your dead” in Somerset
A PROJECT led by Cardiff University on the Iron Age in Somerset has revealed that people who died were subject to socalled “sky burials” – a technique rarely practiced in this area of Britain some 2,000 years ago. Their research has looked at five different hillforts across Somerset, utilising cutting-edge archaeological techniques to examine human remains from sites including Worlebury Camp in Weston-super-Mare. The remains from Worlebury were excavated in the 1850s by the Rev. F. Warre, and some are on display in Weston Museum. They were excavated from a handful of the 93 stone-lined pits visible today in the interior of the hillfort. The team examined how individuals were treated after death, through taking samples of bone and assessing them. It was discovered that they were subject to “excarnation” – exposing a body to the elements. Whether meeting with a violent end, such as at Worlebury, or having died naturally, and regardless of where they were from,
all remains were treated in the same way after death. They discovered that people were buried soon after death, but dug up when soft tissue had rotted away, with some bones being extracted and circulated or curated before being deposited elsewhere. North Somerset Council’s Senior Archaeologist Cat Lodge said: “The exciting results of this new research offer us a real insight into life, and death, in this part of Britain in the Iron Age. “The results also demonstrate a multi-cultural society, and whether you were ‘local’ or from further afield, in death everyone was treated in the same way. “As we continue to uncover the secrets of Worlebury Camp hillfort through a programme of research and maintenance of the monument itself, we’re certain to learn even more about those people who settled here over 2,000 years ago, and I look forward to helping to enhance the story of one of North Somerset’s historic gems.”
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 7
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MENDIP TIMES
New drive to recycle more
SOMERSET Waste Partnership has selected SUEZ recycling and recovery UK as its preferred bidder to help deliver a comprehensive new recycling service across Somerset from 2020. Once finalised, the new contract will see SUEZ deliver the partnership’s new Recycle More service, operating new vehicles from refurbished depots, and collecting a much wider range of recycling every week, including more plastic packaging. The contract is one of the largest collection contracts in the UK, providing collection and waste logistic services to more than 250,000 households across the whole of Somerset. Worth £210 million over its initial ten-year duration, with an option to extend for a further ten years, the contract will employ more than 460 people locally. In addition to the dozen or so materials – including food waste – already collected weekly, Recycle More will pick up a wide range of new items, including plastic pots, tubs and
ENVIRONMENT trays, Tetra Paks and other food and drink cartons, small electrical items and household batteries. By collecting the majority of recyclable household material each week, Recycle More will reduce the volume of left-over general rubbish in residents’ bins, which will subsequently be collected every three weeks. The new service will be introduced in a phased way over two years, starting in June 2020. The current service is provided by Kier, and all staff will transfer to SUEZ when the new contract begins in March 2020. The partnership’s managing director, Mickey Green, said: “We are delighted to have found a partner that shares our vision for creating an exemplar service to make a step change in Somerset’s recycling rates, and who matched our absolute commitment to environmental quality and customer service, while also delivering excellent value for money.” The partnership manages waste and recycling services for all local authorities in Somerset.
Details: www.somersetwaste.gov.uk
Inspiring a greener way to live
THIS year’s Glastonbury Festival promises to be the greenest in its history with a series of initiatives aimed at inspiring festival goers to introduce changes – however small – into their own lives. It might appear to be preaching to the converted, but organisers believe everyone can take something home – and not just their tents and belongings. The festival motto is Love Worthy Farm – Leave no Trace. Other festivals may claim to be greener, but none compare to the vastness of the Glastonbury set-up where ground source heat pumps, solar panels and an anaerobic digester are helping to supply power – with plans to become even more fuel selfsufficient in the future. And as much waste as possible is recycled on site. Festival creator Michael Eavis has always been proud of Worthy Farm’s green credentials and daughter Emily says the current concern over climate change – and large-scale protests such as Extinction Rebellion – is helping to The anaerobic digester could soon provide power to some of the pyramid stage production offices
Wateraid free water refill kiosks are springing up all over the site
reinforce the message. Travelling to the festival by public transport, investing in sturdy tents which can be used for several years and – this is the biggest message for 2019 – not using single-use plastic are just some of the themes organisers are putting out ahead of the gates opening in June.
Some of the thousands of recycling bins which will be brightly painted by the time the gates open
Visit www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk to see their green policies and travel advice PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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MENDIP TIMES
Educating our children about agriculture I WAS very interested to read the article in the May edition of Mendip Times about the two pilots whose plane crashed in fields at Freemans Farm, Barrow Gurney in 1944. In 1941 Roy Marshall, a farmer’s son of Bridgwater Farm on the Barrow With MARY Gurney/Dundry border, was killed when JAMES MBE his plane crashed in a field within sight of the farm, where his mother was watching. Roy’s name is on the village war memorial; it is almost obscured now but an internet search revealed all the names. Education of children about farming and the environment is my theme this month. Much is being done, but how much better it would be if farming was a compulsory subject in the core curriculum at school. It is sad and really appalling to read reports that a large percentage of children do not know where milk comes from or that hens lay eggs and wheat is needed to make flour to make bread. If only all children could get some of this basic information at school it would help them in later years to refute some of the lies being promoted on social media. And the more children that are able to visit a farm, the more they will see how well farmers care for their animals. Local agricultural shows are arranging events for school children. The Royal Bath and West Show held a Field to Fork day where 1,500 children from local schools visited all
Wedmore are winners
FARMING
the exhibits under cover. From sheep shearing to viewing large machinery and cows being milked there was much to see with stewards on hand to describe what was happening. Children could also experience what it was like to stand in a cattle trailer, which caused considerable excitement. It was also encouraging to hear some helpers say they learnt so much. North Somerset Agricultural Society is holding a Countryside Day for schools on July 10th which will be outdoors and based on many farming activities. Local schools may have already booked for this event. Open Farm Sunday is on June 9th. The National Farmers Union have for many years been at the forefront of providing information to teachers and children. They have moved rapidly into new-age technology with Farmvention and STEMterprise. Teachers may like to look up NFU Education on the net to find high quality STEM teaching resources and projects that are closely linked to the core curriculum. Science Farm is a range of science lessons, plans and activities to teach Key Stage One children about food and farming. Apply online, materials are free. Then we have Farmlink in our area, a classroom in the countryside set up by the Alvis family and supported by Yeo Valley, Bridgwater College and associate farms. It is dedicated to educating school children about farming, food production, healthier eating and the environment. Children visit farms and study topics linked to the National Curriculum in the warmer months and a farm teacher visits schools in the winter. It is not government funded so there is a lot of money to be raised. Enormous thanks to all those who support us but we have to keep up the fundraising and to that end with the support of Yeo Valley there will be a fundraising dinner at the Yeo Valley canteen on September 26th. More details later. So, in conclusion this month, across the country there are more open farms and education initiatives, but farmers are only one percent of the population so how on earth can we reach every child? So this is where a basic knowledge of farming in the national school curriculum would have an enormous benefit.
Down on the farm in June
WEDMORE Young Farmers enjoyed success at the Somerset YFC county rally winning the Junior Rally Trophy and coming second in the overall competition. The team included Lottie Hill, Archie Hill, Jack Williams, Elizabeth Bell, Gemma Morse, Hannah Payne, Emily Bell, Maddie Rousell and Megan Hatch.
PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
FARMS across Mendip will open their gates to the public for the 2019 Open Farm Sunday industry showcase. Taking place on Sunday, June 9th, farms include Godney Farm at Godney, featuring dairy and beef cattle, sheep and environmental stewardship; Orchard Park Farm at Hornblotton (cereals and fruit); Radford Mill Farm at Radford (sheep, poultry, fruit and vegetables); Durslade Farm at Bruton (cereal crops, beef, sheep and pigs) and Farrington’s at Farrington Gurney (dairy, beef, pigs, potatoes). Pyle Farm at Trudoxhill (dairy, beef, pigs, poultry) is also taking part, but will be open on Sunday, June 23rd. For full details, visit: www.farmsunday.org
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MENDIP TIMES
ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW 2019
Thatchers supports the show
THE newly named Thatchers Bar and Restaurant has been unveiled within the Royal Bath and West showground’s Wessex Pavilion, with Michael Eavis performing the opening. He’s pictured with Martin Thatcher and the society’s chief executive, Rupert Cox. During this year’s show, which runs from May 29th to June 1st, the popular Thatchers and Butcombe Bar is once again located on Avenue B opposite the main ring in the Sparkford Building. Watch out also for the Thatchers Hot Air balloon, which, weather permitting, will be taking off from the main showground arena on Wednesday, May 29th. It will be just one of the attractions at the show which will run for just three days next year.
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MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 11
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MENDIP TIMES
Equine vets “never stand still” THE team from the Stables Equine Practice at this year’s Royal Bath and West Show will be boosted by final year veterinary students from the University of Bristol to enforce biosecurity measures. An outbreak of equine influenza elsewhere in the country at the beginning of the year has led to higher standards
Outstanding Veterinary Care Official equine vets for the Royal Bath and West Show Proudly serving the equine community since 1997. Providing 24/7 365 days a year service for routine and emergency visits by our 100% dedicated equine vets
Stables Equine Practice, Conkerfield, Pennybatch Lane, Wookey, Wells BA5 1NH Tel: 01749 830666 • website: www.stablesequinepractice.co.uk
of vaccination being required and increased scrutineering to ensure these requirements are followed for the safety of all horses present. Thankfully, there have been no cases reported but the SEP team and the showground are taking no chances. Two SEP vets – headed by Nicko Robertson – will be on duty throughout the show, covering the two main equine areas, looking after 2,000 horses. It has already been a busy year for the practice, based at Conkerfield at Wookey. Vet Tim Randle was on duty at the Badminton Horse Trials and will be at many of the other
Nicko Robertson with one of the year’s first foals
major equestrian events. The team also covers Bath Racecourse. Other vets at the seven-strong practice are also studying for certificates in equine dentistry and orthopaedics to advance their skills. As practice manager Dawn Stubbs says: “We never stand still.”
Ebdon look forward to show
EBDON Firewood Ltd and BBQ Firepits are a family-owned and family-run business, nestled at the foot of Crook Peak in Somerset, run jointly by Simon Ebdon and Vicky Abbott. As well as being at the Royal Bath and West, Ebdon Firepits will be at Honiton Show on August 1st, Taunton Flower Show, August 2nd and 3rd, Melplash August 22nd and Wells Food Festival October 13th.
Reduce your energy costs
PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
SOLARSENSE’S clean energy proposal enables you to reduce your business energy costs and carbon emissions to achieve long-term financial savings; by generating your own clean electricity under their fully-funded, subsidyfree, solar photovoltaic (PV) Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Solarsense will fund, design, install and maintain a solar PV system designed specifically for your business and charge a reduced, index-linked rate for your electricity; all you have to do is agree to lease the airspace above your roof for 25 years. You can use their capital today to start your clean energy journey and sometime down the line, when the timing is right, buy the system back from them if you choose. A PPA not only helps to reduce your carbon emissions but allows you to secure your power at a rate guaranteed to only increase with inflation for the next 25 years; saving you thousands of pounds on average and protecting your business from rising energy costs. For farms in particular, installing solar will give your business a better position when supplying to retailers that are campaigning for greener supply chains. Solar PV, battery storage, electric vehicle charging and heat pumps are just a few ways that Solarsense, the UK’s leading sustainable solutions company can help you to reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint.
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New brand for Old Mill
YOU may have noticed that Old Mill has rebranded, and you may be wondering why we chose to do this now. It’s a tradition at Old Mill to always be at the forefront of what we do, whether it be the knowledge of our staff, the specialisms in financial planning, accountancy and tax, or the investment in software to future proof ourselves and our clients. The new brand embraces the ambition we have to support the variety of the people we work with through a combination of expert advice and the highest quality client support.
ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW 2019
Our brand represents the future; we will keep one eye on online technology and the other on the evolving family make-up, needs and aspirations. As life expectancy increases, effective financial planning and understanding your cash flow is, perhaps, more important than ever. Our aim is to help you and your family negotiate the red tape of finance and give you the peace of mind that your financial affairs are in order and being well managed, freeing you up to focus on enjoying life knowing your financial future, and that of those you love, is well
Old Mill will be at the following events: Royal Bath and West Show – Wednesday, May 29th–Saturday, June 1st Royal Cornwall Show – Thursday, June 6th–8th Sherborne Classics and Supercar Show – Sunday, July 21st Honiton Show – Thursday, August 1st Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show – Wednesday, August 14th Mid-Somerset Show – Sunday, August 18th Melplash Show – Thursday, August 22nd Frome Agricultural and Cheese Show – Saturday, September 14th
Lisa Anderson
planned. It’s important to remember that, whilst our brand may have changed, our values haven’t. Our people, our quality of service, the personal relationships we have built and our enthusiasm for helping you navigate your finances remain the same. As financial professionals, we have always provided something different, specialist and niche to our clients. So, we have not changed but we have evolved and our new brand now represents this. The show season is now upon us, and we will be out and about at country shows and events throughout the region. Come and speak to us to find out more.
If you’d like to know more about how Old Mill can help you plan for your future please contact Lisa Anderson on 01749 335017 or email lisa.anderson@om.uk
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 13
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MENDIP TIMES
A day to remember at the North Somerset Show
THE 160th North Somerset Show attracted thousands of visitors to the showground at Wraxall to celebrate the countryside.
The grand parade of livestock
Peighton Robertson, from Chipping Sodbury, with Olympic Response Bella Donna
Wedmore Young Farmers entered junior teams in the stock judging competitions. Lottie Hill and Will Tucker came third in the beef and dairy judging. Then in the individual lamb judging Maddie Rousell came first and Will Tucker was third
Lucy Rea, aged six, from Berkeley PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Priddy impressive: Rosie and Dawn Payne, with a one-two in the native ewe lamb class with Belle and Bliss, Poll Dorsets from the Priddy Polls
Justina Langley, from Farmborough-based AJ Langley and Son, clips one of the Valebook herd of Friesians ahead of judging
Harry Stamp with sheep judge Basil Cooper and his award-winning Dorset Down which triumphed in the Downland classes
Stewart Connor, who works at Fernhill Farm, in the sheep shearing competition
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INTERNET
Seeking help
TODAY we see a multitude of different devices using a range of different operating systems, running a huge number of different programs and apps, many of which have a variety of versions. And they do not always behave as they should! Even the most ardent enthusiast can sometimes have difficulty persuading their device to perform the tasks they require. What do they do? Well often the first step is to ask Google! Let’s take a simple example – you want to add the copyright symbol © to a Microsoft Word Document, dead easy when you know, but if you don’t ask Google. Type your question in the Google Search Bar.
Google’s answer will give you a number of ways of doing it; (the quickest way (Ctrl+Alt+C) is to press Ctrl key at the same time as the Alt and C keys). That’s one of a large number of useful keyboard short cuts. As in this case, Google may answer a question directly or by providing links to images, You Tube videos and forums where enthusiasts share and discuss problems, all can help solve a query. In addition to reading what others have written in the forums you might consider joining in and posing a question or providing others with a solution to a problem you have solved. There are literally billions of users of computer devices out there, so if you are having difficulty it is probable someone somewhere has experienced the same difficulty and found a solution so their answer is there waiting for you. Of course some problems are complex and you may not understand the jargon, so if Google’s answer is less than clear to you don’t forget help is out there – try contacting IT for the Terrified! Now how do I use Bluetooth to transfer my music collection from my Android phone to my new Android car radio? Submitted by IT for the Terrified : Cheddar Village Hall, Church St, Cheddar BS27 3RF 01934 741751 (usually goes to answer phone) www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com I.T. for the Terrified – for all your computer training needs. A skill-sharing, community project. Run by a Committee – Staffed by Volunteers Registered Charity No. 1130308 : Company No. 06779600 This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. For more in depth information, please contact us. We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you. We can cover a range of subjects – including absolute basics; photo management; shopping online; emailing; Word processing, spreadsheets; basic web design; etc. on a range of devices, including Windows: Macs: Tablets: iPads: smartphones. Or if you would like to share basic skills with others, please get in touch
PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
CROSSWORD
The Mendip Mindbender
ACROSS 1 No good (7) 5 Monarch's mate (7) 10 Seasoned smoked beef (8) 11 Farm which gets very noisy for a few days most years (6) 12 Vilified (6) 13 Scott of the Antarctic's parents ran the brewery here (8) 14 Flanders and Swann song mentioning Midsomer Norton (4,5) 16 Bumbling (5) 18 --- Hill, a barrow cemetery North East of Priddy (5) 19 Tweaker of the Devil's nose, born in Baltonsborough (2,7) 22 Nice newt went off and became Glastonbury Abbey's first Saxon Patron (8) 24 Stir to action (6) 26 Most delicate (6) 27 Official (2,6)
28 Something unpleasant to look at (7) 29 Britain's longest-running weekly women's magazine (3,4) DOWN 2 They must be worn in cars (4,5) 3 Yoga position (5) 4 Defame (7) 6 Words of resignation (2,4) 7 Encircles (9) 8 Detox (5) 9 Village described as the "birthplace of geology" (4,9) 15 Such as Jimmy Havoc and Mikey Whiplash (9) 17 Trolleyed (9) 20 Exhume (7) 21 Rancorous (6) 23 News show presenter --Maitlis (5) 25 --- Rhodes, founder of the De Beers diamond group (5)
The Mendip Times Scribble Pad
This month’s solution can be found on page 129
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MENDIP TIMES
EVENTS
Ton-up for tractor run By Mark Adler
MORE than 100 tractors took to the roads around the Somerset Levels for the annual Good Friday run in aid of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Organised by enthusiast Ivan Sparks and a team of volunteers, the route began and ended at the Railway Inn and raised more than £700. Ivan said: “I was overwhelmed. One hundred and three tractors. Just a brilliant day in every way.”
The glorious weather was in marked contrast to the rain of last year
A Field Marshall tractor prepares to lead the way
Ivan Sparks: “overwhelmed” by the turnout
Len Hatcher, from Street, on his 1964 Massey Ferguson 35X
Time for a stroll before the road run begins
James and dad Martin Trebble, from Glastonbury, with James’s Massey Ferguson 3115, a regular winner at shows and events such as the Mid-Somerset Show PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Blue is the colour
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MENDIP TIMES
Things are warming up
Warnings about climate change are everywhere and our food system is responsible for about a With JUNE quarter of it. MACFARLANE At a personal level we can do our bit by consuming a bit less meat and dairy and being aware of food miles travelled. We can focus more on sustainable seafood and plant-based dishes. Every little bit helps! STRAWBERRY RIPPLE ICED CHEESECAKE
INGREDIENTS
(serves six) 235g strawberries hulled 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp icing sugar 200g soft cheese 1 tsp vanilla extract 397g can condensed milk 425 ml whipping cream 50g ginger biscuits, crushed
Wimbledon, Glastonbury and Ascot – it’s high season for strawberries! This is a great dessert that can be made in advance and doesn’t need churning.
METHOD Reserve a few strawberries for garnish. Halve the rest and whiz with lemon juice and icing sugar until almost smooth. Beat cheese in a bowl with electric beater until smooth. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt. Gradually add condensed milk until smooth. Add whipping cream and whisk to soft peak stage. Spoon ½ ice cream mix into dish. Swirl over half he strawberries. Sprinkle over half the biscuits. Repeat. Freeze for at least three hours. Allow to stand out for ten minutes before serving with remaining strawberries.
This cheesecake makes a great summer dessert
PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Going green – eating sustainably is a delicious way to help the planet
SEARED SCALLOPS WITH ASPARAGUS SAUCE Scallops are on the sustainable list, and aren’t they delicious? Go for hand dived ones with the corals on. You don’t need the corals for the dish, but you can freeze them whole and grate them over to finish it. I make the puree with asparagus trimmings.
INGREDIENTS
(serves two) 6 fresh scallops, trimmed Salt Trimmings from 500g asparagus 120ml warm chicken stock 2tbsp melted butter 2tbsp rapeseed oil
METHOD Salt the scallops and set aside. Boil asparagus trimmings in salted water for two-three minutes until tender. Drain. Puree with half the stock. Add melted butter and whizz again. Taste for seasoning. If too thick add more stock. Keep warm. Pat scallops completely dry. Heat oil in a pan over a high heat. Sear the scallops until golden on one side. Turn and sear briefly on the other side. Serve in a pool of asparagus puree with optional grated coral.
RHUBARB AND GINGER PRESERVE INGREDIENTS
(makes three x 340g pots) 1kg rhubarb, trimmed and chopped 1 kg jam sugar Juice of 2 lemons 25g fresh ginger root, peeled 100g crystallised ginger, chopped
This is a wonderful preserve to make with outdoor rhubarb which has an intense flavour that can stand up to the ginger – together they pack quite a punch. Don’t be surprised by a soft set – very little pectin in rhubarb – so do use jam sugar.
METHOD In a big bowl mix rhubarb, sugar and lemon juice and leave overnight. Put into a big pan and boil rapidly for 15 mins. Chop fresh ginger finely and add to pan with crystallised ginger. Boil until a set is reached. Pot and seal in sterilised jars.
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What’s new from
Myrtle Farm
FOOD & DRINK
A round-up of events from Thatchers Cider in Sandford
A huge thank you from the Thatchers Foundation
A HUGE thank you to everyone who came along to our Festival of Cider and Wine Fundraising Evening in support of the Thatchers Foundation. As well as the tastings of local ciders, wines and gin, and local cheeses, guests enjoyed tethered rides in the Thatchers Hot Air Balloon and simply relaxed and chatted with friends whilst enjoying music from Beautiful Adventure, all in aid of good causes locally. The Thatchers Foundation helps and supports community and charitable activities in Somerset. Two recent projects which have received donations from The Foundation are the Reach Opportunity Centre in Weare, and the Appleshed Inclusive Theatre Company in Congresbury. THE Reach Opportunity Centre supports young adults with learning disabilities, giving them opportunities to develop life-skills for living independently and preparing for work or apprenticeships. From cooking their own meals, to using a washing machine or dishwasher, growing their own vegetables, and running a successful tuck shop and snack van, all come within a typical day at The Reach Centre, which was set up by Jill and Peter Swingler in 2014. A fully functioning kitchen comes within the heart of these skills, and The Foundation presented a cheque towards the centre’s target of £10,000 to install a new facility at Badgworth Barns in Weare. The Reach Centre supports young adults with learning disabilities from 18-35 years old who attend from throughout the local area.
MEANWHILE drama enthusiasts from The Appleshed Inclusive Theatre Company were delighted to receive a donation from The Thatchers Foundation to boost their own fundraising efforts for equipment, theatre props and the ongoing running costs that it needs to maintain and expand its workshops for children, teenagers and adults. The Appleshed Theatre company is understood to be the only inclusive theatre running in the South West. It currently has 50 members on its register and offers sessions across the age groups. Its ethos, modelled on Chickenshed Theatre in London, is to help people who may or may not have additional needs to work together to create truly inclusive theatre events.
“These are two amazing projects that we are really thrilled to support. Appleshed is an awe-inspiring theatre group that has great ambitions to start more sessions in other Somerset towns and villages. The Reach Opportunity Centre has young adults attend from all over the local area, and their new kitchen will make a real difference to developing life skills. “Thank you to everyone who has supported The Thatchers Foundation’s fundraising, enabling us in turn, to get to know and help these inspiring groups.” Anne Thatcher, Trustee, Thatchers Foundation For more information about the Foundation, or if you’d like to make a request for a grant, please visit: www.thatcherscider.co.uk/thatchers-charitable-foundation/
MENDIP • JUNE 2017 2019 • PAGE 21 MENDIP TIMEST•IMES NOVEMBER
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MENDIP TIMES
Scoop & Spice
SCOOP & Spice are a family-run business selling a wide range of natural wholefoods and spices. Buy the amount you need with many loose products available in BPA free gravity dispensers saving lots of unnecessary packaging. Selling trusted brands as Suma and Essential alongside local products such as Congresbury honey, soap by Goats of the Gorge, Rickford apple juice and so much more. Pop in for a browse, feel free to bring along your own containers or bags to refill. Eco cleaning refills also available.
THE SEVEN STARS village pub & dining Mon-urs 12noon-11pm Fri and Sat 12noon-11.30pm Sunday 12noon-10pm
SEVEN STARS | NORTH ROAD | TIMSBURY | BATH BA2 0JJ WWW.SEVENSTARSTIMSBURY.CO.UK | 01761 470398 HELLO@SEVENSTARSTIMSBURY.CO.UK
Mendip Times reduces travel costs
100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business
Country shopping at its best
North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW Opening times: Farm shop: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am - 5.30pm • Sunday 10am - 5pm Tea Room: Monday to Sunday 9am - 5.30pm
Wheelchair access, children welcome, free parking, coaches by appointment
TEA ROOMS
Hot & cold meals Delicious cream teas Full English breakfasts Function room available for hire
Tasty Cheddar strawberries and our own cream!
Emma Bridgewater China & other gifts
Enjoy a good Sunday roast
Meat from our own farm
Farm Shop: 01761 220067 • Tea Rooms: 01761 220172
PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
COME AND ENJOY OUR FRESH BARBEQUE MEATS
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GARDEN FOOD
Strawberry rush
THIS year we have gone a little strawberry mad, planting more than 70 plants and over 30 varieties. Our hope is that by going so overboard we may be able to put a few away in the freezer for the leaner months, instead of scoffing the lot in the summer! With JAKE We planted them in ordinary garden WHITSON soil that had been mulched for several years, supplementing with a little compost, farmyard manure, calcified seaweed and bone meal. We also planted them through holes in woven weed mulch fabric, to minimise weeding and also give them a little extra heat. Incidentally, something we have learned is that it is best to burn holes in this fabric rather than cut them, as cut holes fray and compromise the fabric over time. We have a mixture of everbearing and summer bearing strawberries, spanning the season from May through until the first frosts. The pink flowered “Fragoo”, pictured here, is an everbearing kind bred to be an ornamental as well. Another which we haven't tried before this year is called “Just add cream” – similar to “Fragoo” it has ornamental flowers and is everbearing, but supposedly has a strong wild strawberry perfume which can be detected by passers-by metres away! As I write this we haven't yet eaten the first from our garden, but we have been buying strawberries cheap on the market and then freezing them. Frozen strawberries have become a must-have in our house and are amazing in drinks, either dropped whole into freshly squeezed orange juice to slowly melt and become soft and sorbet-ish, or blitzed with lemon juice, a little water, sugar and tequila to make strawberry margaritas. Our favourite at the moment however is to blend together a handful of frozen strawberries, a chopped frozen banana and enough milk to cover them, which makes the most delicious, ice creamy milkshake imaginable! 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
Forager’s heaven?
SOME of you may know me well enough by now to have some appreciation of the fact that I take great delight discovering wild foods in a new place I am visiting. It may well be a plant or mushroom completely new to me or indeed an old friend that I have found many times before. With ADRIAN Either way I have come to realise that the BOOTS simple act of getting out into nature and stumbling across a patch of sorrel or tripping over truffles is a great joy in my life. Most recently I was out walking a section of the South West Coastal Path in Dorset, on Chesil beach and Portland near Weymouth. The weather was fantastic and the panoramas stunning. The section of path I was walking took me through the old stone quarries of Portland. These are now nature reserves containing an incredible variety of plants, interesting geology, lots of history and some wonderful sculptures. So I had just walked round a group of sculptures when the route ended abruptly and disgorged me into a gravelled car park next to a small industrial estate. No bother, I’ll see if the path picks up again maybe at the other end of the car park. I didn’t get that far... Surrounding the car park was a veritable cornucopia of wild edible plants. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing or indeed my luck. I can only describe it like being a child wandering into a sweet shop and just not knowing where to look first. I identified at least 15 edible plants (some delicious, others not so good mind) all within several feet of where I was standing. Was this literally a forager’s heaven? Then reality came crashing down on me. Every single car that came and went contained a dog, obviously with attending owners. Anyway, there are several factors here that fascinate me as a landscape ecologist and forager. The edge of any habitat is where all the ecological magic happens. Edges receive more energy, inputs if you will (even if doggy related), more disturbance and change. This is what makes edges so interesting and a great place to look for wild food. However, there is serious risk foraging in this type of location due to aforementioned canine interventions. Yet the nutrient enrichment is likely to be a factor in the sheer healthy abundance of plants witnessed. Win, lose or draw, life is about taking a few calculated risks and I had to try something. I selected a location at the far end of the car park away from the footpath entrance and picked wild rocket and black mustard from the tops of plants well back from the very edge. A quick wash from my water bottle and I was treated to the wonderful peppery loveliness these plants offer. The rest went into my cheese sandwiches for lunch. I was in forager’s heaven after all! 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 • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 23
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MENDIP TIMES
Food festival was a feast for the senses
CASTLE Cary hosted its first eat:Festival to celebrate a saints’ feast charter originally granted in 1468. The town centre was filled with more than 60 local food and drink producers, demonstrations, livestock and entertainment. Organisers said more than 8,000 people attended. The event coincided with the feast day of saints Philip and James the Less and was developed by the team behind the multi-award winning eat:Festivals. Co-organiser Sarah Milner Simonds said: "We wanted to re-ignite the celebration that has brought people together for centuries. The festival has at certain times lasted three days, with feasting, selling livestock and even a procession of milkmaids!” Fellow organiser Bev Milner Simonds added: "There was some unease before the festival from some local businesses and residents, but the feedback subsequently has been 100% positive. We hope the town will want the festival to return on May 2nd 2020: maybe with a procession of milkmaids!"
eat:Festival organisers Bev and Sarah Milner Simonds
Cider maker Alan Stone, from Shepton Mallet
The town centre was full of stalls – but some locals were unhappy initially at the disruption
Gemma Lewis, from Dark Matters Brownies, named the best producer by visitors
A cookery demonstration underway in the Market House PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
A sign of a good day: Victoria and Marie on their Moroccan street food stall
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Couple place pub at heart of community THE White Hart at Cross has new people in charge, Gina Pike and Mike Devaney, and they have lost no time in gaining the support of the local community, saying they have been overwhelmed by the welcome they have had. They make this promise on their T-shirts: Putting the Heart into the Hart. They have set about rejuvenating the old coaching inn, supported by family, friends and the pub’s owners, Geoff and Tina Hancock. Gina’s neice, Kelly Jones, made the new pub sign, featuring local landmarks Crook Peak and Compton Bishop Church. A new kitchen is next, while work starts on the gardens, which should be a stunning feature on a south facing slope. The skittle alley has also had a new carpet. The couple, who have been together for ten years, took over in April, 18 months after having a drink there following the death of Gina’s mum, Dorothy Garmston. Gina, who is from Compton Bishop, said: “Mike has always wanted a pub and I’ve worked in pubs, so when the chance came to take this on it was
FOOD & DRINK
like a dream come true.” Mike was previously an agricultural fencing contractor. The pub has a sports bar, with darts and pool table and a beautiful beamed lounge, as well as the skittle alley. As a free house, they can offer very competitive prices, with Gem and Trelawny ales at £3.30 and Thatchers Gold at £3.70, plus modestly-priced teas and cakes. They hope to have the new kitchen open by July. The couple have already hosted one open night at which one man said: “Thank you for opening the pub again and making it such a community place.”
New management New kitchen soon Gina and Mike wish you a warm welcome Real Ale £3.30 e White Hart Old Coach Road Cross BS26 2EE 01934 733108 ewhitehart2019@gmail.com
Pot of tea £1.80
Open: Monday 6-11pm • Midweek 12-3pm and 6-11pm Saturday 12noon-11pm • Sunday 12noon-7pm Bank Holiday Weekends 12noon-close
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 25
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MENDIP TIMES
Cheddar gears up for festival FOLLOWING a successful inaugural event in 2017, the second Cheddar Food & Drink Festival took place in September 2018 and saw more than 30 food and drink stalls providing a fantastic range of local produce and supplementing Cheddar’s already excellent range of pubs, restaurants, shops and cafés.
The 2019 Cheddar Food & Drink Festival promises to be larger still with around 40 stalls offering a wide range of fine local produce and takes place this time on a Sunday, Sunday September 8th, 10am-4pm. The Cheddar Food & Drink Festival will again be located in the Lakeside carpark at the bottom of Cheddar Gorge, with stalls also situated in the nearby Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company courtyard. Entertainment will be provided by the superb Sam Evans, lead singer and song writer of the band Verdisa, with further live music during the afternoon.
Tim on the range
(l:r) Jeremy and Natalie White, from Mendip Fireplaces, with Tim Maddams and Esse’s Dan Blewitt
PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • JMUNE AY 2019 2019
CHEF, writer and television presenter Tim Maddams came to Shepton Mallet to hold a cookery demonstration. The Devon-based foodie grew up on the family farm in Wiltshire where he became passionate about food from an early age. He has worked alongside celebrity chefs such as Mark Hix, Marco Pierre-White and Alistair Little. Tim visited Mendip Fireplaces to cook on one of the latest Esse range cookers in front of invited guests.
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FOOD & DRINK
A L D W I C K V I N E YA R D
Swings and roundabouts
DO losses on the roundabouts mean profits on the swings, as Irish poet Patrick Reginald Chalmers wrote in 1912? Or was P G Wodehouse correct in stating six years earlier the precise opposite: “What we lose on the swings, we make up on the roundabouts.” With Whatever the case, 2019 has proved ELIZABETH vertigo-inducing. LAVER Climate change brings erratic, recordbreaking weather. A dry January, sunny February, and warm, wet March prompted one month’s premature Vernal Equinox bud-burst in the vines. The threat from frosts escalated, with two nerve-wracking forecasts in early April and again on May 5th and 6th. Farm manager, Tim Mewton, implemented basic protection measures. All thanks to him, plus Aldwick’s favourable site, our vines were spared. The angst-inducing hail storm of May 8th miraculously passed to the east of us. How rewarding to be recognised as “Best Drinks Producer” in the Western Daily Press 2019 Food & Farming Awards! What a delight to see so many of our lovely harvesters gathered for the annual “Pickers Supper” on the May 22nd, splendidly catered by Carole Grant! Yet joy is tempered with sorrow that our multi-tasking dynamos housekeeper Judit Cseh and talented husband Viktor Sebok are leaving. Since February 2015, their immeasurable contributions to every field of endeavour here have left an indelible legacy.
The Churchill Inn Bristol Road Langford BS25 5NL 01934 852757 the churchillinn.co.uk
A new look A new menu Same warm welcome
Russ and Bernie’s relaunched pub
ME OF FEATHERS U L P
DUCK RACE SATURDAY 13th JULY
Starting at 5pm. Great family fun evening with a local band playing, best dressed duck competition, duck racing, BBQ, pig roast, face painting, ice cream stall, 3 bars open. Come and get your ducks from the Plume, decorate at home or at the Plume from 5pm and enter them before 6pm. Rickford, Somerset BS40 7AH
01761 462682
Elizabeth Laver is Vineyard Manager
For wine & vineyard tours visit www.aldwickestate.co.uk
Visit www.theplumeoffeathers.com MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 27
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MENDIP TIMES
Children benefit from literature festival
NEWS
Children from St Paul’s School in Shepton Mallet performing Hamlet at the Shakespeare Schools Festival in Frome
THE 2018 Wells Festival of Literature raised £20,000 towards a series of projects enjoyed by 2,000 children in 44 local schools, organisers have announced. The festival brought authors, storytellers, poets, rappers, drama, theatre groups, book clubs, Beanstalk reading support and a visit by a David Walliams play to Somerset over the past year. Now the festival is appealing for more
We wrote this – and it’s magic!
people to become its “friends” in 2019 to support its work; almost £3 of every £10 spent on tickets – in addition to sponsorship and other support – goes towards its work in schools. The line-up for this year’s festival in October will be announced in mid-July. Joining the friends offers priority booking, a 10% reduction and a free invitation-only evening on Monday, July
CHILDREN from St John’s First School in Frome have written and illustrated their own book of magical short stories. Spelliarmus! was created after a competition was held to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first Harry Potter book. The winners of the competition were chosen by Barry Cunningham OBE, publisher at Chicken House Books, who was instrumental in bringing JK Rowling’s stories to publication. With support from Chicken House, the Friends of St John’s School created a book from all the entries so that the children could see their work in print and become published authors, with design and production from Postscript and a cover created by Emma Hopkins using the children’s own artwork. Now children have presented Frome Library with two copies of their book which are now available to borrow from the children’s section of the library. The limited-edition books can be borrowed free from the library or purchased from Hunting Raven Books in Frome (£5.99 each or £10 for two).
Playtime in West Pennard
GLASTONBURY Festival creator Michael Eavis and daughter Emily opened the new outdoor play area at West Pennard School. They are pictured with head teacher Jo Hale and pupils.
PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
15th at Wells’ Cedars Hall with bestselling historical fiction author, classicist, historian and 21st century Roman soldier, Ben Kane. l June 30th is the deadline for the festival’s writing competitions; the open poetry section will be judged by newlyappointed Poet Laureate Simon Armitage. For details, visit: www.wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk
Cerian Amery, manager of Frome Library, receives copies of Spelliarmus! from two of the short story competition winners, Daisy and Summer.
All proceeds go to the Friends of St John's, a registered charity, which provides additional resources, materials and opportunities to enrich the children's experience at school.
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COLUMBARD PET SHOP 62 High St, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DQ Tel: 01761 412957 www.columbardpetsupplies.co.uk Specialists in raw, natural and grain free feeds. Over 100 raw products plus an excellent selection of grain free and natural treats all stocked We will also be glad to assist you in our sister shop – Natural Pets Of Wells, (formerly known as Thatchers) at 18 Queen Street, Wells BA5 2DP. A warm welcome awaits you in both our locally owned, independent pet shops We stock a large range of feeds and treats, including many raw and natural items, plus a wide selection of accessories for all your pets. Large selection of wild bird feeds also stocked
Tel: 0800 097 8611
www.johnhodge.co.uk | e-mail: mailbox@johnhodge.co.uk
WESTON-SUPER-MARE | BRISTOL | CLEVEDON | YATTON | WEDMORE
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MENDIP TIMES
Writing group is set in stone
A GROUP of writers based in and around Weston-super-Mare have published the first anthology of their work. Writers in Stone formed in late 2017 as a number of members of the Waterstones book group were interested in writing, but felt they needed a framework of like-minded people with regular meetings to encourage their endeavors. They meet on Tuesday mornings in the Bay Cafe at the Tropicana. At the end of each meeting, we agree on a theme to tackle should they need some motivation. The themes are not compulsory and members are welcome to seek feedback on anything they have written, including a passage from a longer work in progress.
Arts trail open for entries
LOCAL artists are invited to sign up for this year's Chew Valley Arts Trail which will be taking place on October 12th and 13th. The ever-popular event attracts hundreds of visitors to the area for an enjoyable autumnal weekend. Organiser Sandy Bell said she was delighted that a number of new exhibitors had already been in touch and she looked forward to yet another successful event. Details: application forms are available from tintinna@aol.com or 01275 333128.
PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
The members range from new writers gaining confidence to accomplished novelists, award-winning playwrights and a popular poet. Their individual responses to 13 monthly topics form the recently-published anthology, something that they aim to compile every year. Jim Neilson-Pritchard, from Writers in Stone, said: “Apart from patting ourselves on the back and promoting our anthology, we as a group would like to publicise the fact that there are cultural and creative groups active in Weston-superMare and would like to encourage other creative people to get involved. “We feel that Weston's image as a cultural epicenter suffers in comparison with Bristol, Bath, Wells and Glastonbury, but the town has recently celebrated its second annual literature festival, and there are a number of book groups, poetry groups, open mic evenings and art groups, none of which are particularly well known at present.” l To contact Writers in Stone, email writersinstone@gmail.com The anthology is available on amazon in both paperback and kindle formats: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1798740311/ref=sr_1_1?keyword s=driftwood%2C+an+anthology&qid=1555430408&s=books&s r=1-1
Back at Wells and Mendip Museum
BASED online with Saatchi Art in California, Kevin Jones is now showing his work at the Wells & Mendip Museum, from May 27th–July 1st. This is a followup to his exhibition there last year, which proved very popular with visitors. Since last year’s show, he has sold Kevin Jones further pieces of work to collectors in both the UK and USA. In addition to this, one of his artworks was included in a collection, selected by Rebecca Wilson, chief curator and director and displayed on the homepage of Saatchi Art. Line, space and colour are the main elements for the manner in which he works. These are combined in a form of free structure, engaging a type of controlled freedom, which involves both improvisation and expressionism. The work is very original and fresh, but can also be complex and thought provoking, with the use of many multiple-image compositions. Influences include the human form, geometry, landscape (both urban and coastal) and music. The materials he uses are pastel, conte crayon, charcoal, ballpoint pen, marker and graphite. These are applied on varying types of paper. He is continually both rubbing back line, and mixing colours, with his fingertips; this is how he loves to work.
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Investors seeking glittering items WITH such uncertainty in the traditional investment markets, auction rooms are seeing an increase of demand in safer “commodities” such as silver, gold and jewellery. The Mendip Auction Rooms, operated by Killens, is no different. A good entry of these items is often received leading to strong interest and good support from buyers across the country and further afield. Selling
online through the-saleroom.com certainly leads to more buyers and much better prices. In their sale on May 4th, items selling to advantage included a yellow and white metal cluster ring set with an emerald surrounded by diamonds that made £1200; a further white metal cluster ring set with a ruby and surrounded by diamonds £1200; a white metal diamond floral tremblant brooch £460 and a yellow metal curb link bracelet with charms £380. Gold sovereigns were seen to sell to £270. Generally, capital gains tax does not apply to the sale of personal possessions with a lifespan of less than 50 years and this can include antique watches and clocks. This helps demand for such items and well-known
ARTS AND ANTIQUES
watches and quality clocks attract keen interest. At their sale on May 4th, Killens saw a Rolex Oyster Perpetual wristwatch achieve £2300. Recently, an early 19th century mahogany long case clock in need of reconstruction with some parts lacking sold well above estimate for £550. 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 • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 31
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MENDIP TIMES
Arts week success
NORTH Somerset Arts Week saw hundreds of visitors descending on more than 40 venues to enjoy superb displays of arts and crafts.
Renee Kilburn (left) with Paul and Renate O'Donnell in Congresbury
Pete Calcutt, Backwell
Tara Vignoles from Wrington
Spring exhibition
Jacqui Broughton (left) and Jane Slade, members of Piecemakers, quilters based in Nailsea A taster session in copper cutting and stamping with Sophie Piddock
Auction success
Our first auction in Axbridge Town Hall was a great success! Out of 270 lots all but ten were sold. Jules' debut as a budding auctioneer surpassed all expectations as did the auction itself. The old enamel Cheddar Post Office sign evoked a fierce bidding war between Cheddar and Axbridge. The hammer went down at £170 with a resounding victorious cheer by Axbridge residents. Various prices were reached, not quite enough for the vintage Lalique perfume (which later sold to China) or for the Edwardian Polyphon, but a £90
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hammer price for a Georgian wine table was a great result! There was much demand for another auction and we are hoping to make it a monthly event. But we fear Axbridge Town Hall may not be big enough, there were people queuing outside to get in! We are looking at various village halls as possible venues, which will keep it all fresh and provide a service for local residents around Somerset. Please see www.ripleyantiques.co.uk for information and dates of future auctions.
A BROAD spectrum of arts and crafts were represented at the annual spring exhibition and sale by Cam Valley Arts Group, held at the Conygre Hall, Timsbury. Karen George, the group chair, said: “We have had a large number of very positive comments from our visitors about the exceptionally high quality of the work on display and the range of talents represented within our group.” The group’s arts trail will be held on November 2nd and 3rd. Details: www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk
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Sale of church contents in June A STUNNING Baccarat candelabra in perfect condition had online and telephone bidders very excited at Cooper and Tanner’s last auction on May 1st, selling to an online bidder for £1,100 on the hammer. A rare and highly unusual William IV silver eagle wing caddy spoon by Joseph Willmore also caused a stir selling for £800. There was a very large collection of Copland Spode in the sale which had strong competitive bidding both from USA and UK with excellent prices being achieved, the highlight being a Spode dinner service including comport, meat plates and tureen selling to an American bidder making £800 on the hammer showing that ceramics are still very much collectable items. Once again Chinese ceramics proved to be very popular, a vase decorated with gentleman in different scenes selling for £440 and online bidding taking a blue and white bowl decorated with fish with a Xuande mark back to China making £360 on the hammer. Mid-century design is incredibly
ARTS & ANTIQUES
popular with furniture and in particular English manufacturers such as Ercol still attracting lots of competitive bidding with customers liking the modernistic look which is keeping the prices high, a set of Ercol Chiltern patterned chairs sold for £260 and a nest of three Ercol tables making £150 on the hammer. Their next Specialist Antiques and Collectables Sale takes place on June 5th where they have a stunning collection of jewellery and the contents of the former Baptist Church and School Room in Westbury Leigh. They will be auctioneering pews, the pulpit, church organ and even the stained glass windows. Gareth Wasp, their auctioneer, will be holding his next valuation morning at their Wells office on Tuesday, July 16th from 9am until 1pm where he will be available to view jewellery, silver and Antiques and Collectables; no appointment is necessary, just pop along on the day. Gareth is always available for home visits too; please call the office to book on 01373 852419.
The Baccarat candelabra which sold for £1,100.
COOPER AND TANNER SALE ROOMS HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR MAY SALE
Spode dinner service including comport, meat plates & tureen. Sold £800
Decorated Chinese vase. Sold £440
Set of Chiltern patterned chairs. Sold £260
William IV silver eagle wing caddy spoon by Joseph Willmore. Sold £800
SALE ROOMS Gareth Wasp Telephone 01373 852419 The Agricultural Centre, Standerwick, Frome BA11 2QB gareth.wasp@cooperandtanner.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 33
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MENDIP TIMES
A chance to own artist’s legacy
New exhibition
REPRODUCTION rights for original drawings by renowned Midsomer Norton artist David Fisher have been granted by his widow Brenda and the Radstock CoOperative Society to Somerset Coalfield Live at Radstock Museum. The museum has produced a series of six, limited-edition prints from pencil sketches by David in 1983 for the society’s 1984 calendar. They are available in the shop at the museum or by mail order. Celebrating 25th Anniversary at the Malthouse Gallery
New work from New York, Havana, Mediterranean and South West England by
The Malthouse Gallery
East Lambrook Manor Gardens, Silver Street, East Lambrook, South Petherton, Somerset TA13 5HH 4th June – 21st July 10am – 5pm • Tuesday to Sunday Mob: 07812 837825 www.moishsokal.co.uk
PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
RETURNING from his latest trip to New York and Cuba, Moish Sokal is reflecting on his 25 years of exhibiting his watercolours and all the exotic locations he has visited and painted. He felt inspired to look back at these locations and to paint them in his current style. The result is his landmark exhibition Reflections – A fresh look at the Malthouse Gallery, East Lambrook Manor Gardens, Silver Street. TA13 5HH,
which opens on Tuesday June 4th. He said the excitement of this adventure, discovering urban motifs to paint in a new fresh style and palette, propelled him to go on and paint some of his favourite places he has been to during the last 25 years, with a fresh look.
Hilliard Society exhibition
THE Hilliard Society of Miniaturists is holding its annual exhibition in the Town Hall, Wells from Saturday. June 1st and around 300 miniature works will be on display. It is 400 years since the death of Nicholas Hilliard and the event was marked earlier in the year at the National Portrait Gallery, London, by an exceptional display of work by Hilliard and Isaac Oliver. Hilliard was born in Exeter and trained as a goldsmith. However he achieved his status as a miniaturist in the court of Queen Elizabeth I. He is regarded as the first great English miniaturist and the society is proud to bear his name. The exhibition contains work from some of the foremost miniaturists in the UK, as well as work from artists in America, Australia and South Africa and as always there is a wide variety of subjects. The traditional miniature of Hilliard’s day was portraiture and painted in watercolour on vellum. From the 1700s artists started to paint on ivory and because of its non-absorbent surface, the method of applying tiny dots, called stippling, was used to apply the paint, building up in layers. While ivory has not been used for many years, there are other synthetic surfaces which require the same painstaking method. Indeed most miniatures are painted using tiny brushstrokes and will take far longer to paint than a large work. Miniatures are widely regarded as being a particularly English art form, going back over 400 hundred years, and it is still a specialist area in art so it is rare to see such a large display of such quality outside London. The paintings may be diminutive in size but the quality and detail could be enlarged to many times the original size. The exhibition runs until June 8th.
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ARTS & ANTIQUES
Annual Exhibition and Sale of Miniature Art at e Town Hall, Wells, Somerset Saturday 1st – Saturday 8th June 10am – 5pm (Closed Sunday) Daily Demonstrations • Admission Free • Wheelchair access
A workshop will be held on 1st June, 10am - 4pm Contact: 01749 674472 or Email: hilliardsociety@aol.com MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 35
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MENDIP TIMES
(Photograph courtesy of Pauline Rook)
New guild member
JUDY Simmonds – whose work features at the Somerset Guild of Craftsmen gallery in Wells – came late in life to basket making but now pursues the craft with the same passion that marked her creative ventures as a chef and concert singer. The lasting appeal of the elegant and practical nature of early willow objects led her to a special weaving technique: the spiral construction known as “Perigourdin”. Strength and stamina are required for this design: following a rhythmically precise pattern, the maker must nudge more than 100 willow rods in an ever-outwardly moving curve. Judy was shown the rudiments by Norbert Faure at the 160year-old basket makers co-operative at Villaines-les-Rochers in France and spent months of failed attempts in learning her craft.
23a Broad Street Wells, BA5 2DJ. Tel: 01749 671112 Open Mon–Sat 10–4 www.somersetguild.co.uk PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Mendip on show
Alan and Sue Collins
AN exhibition at Burrington Church featured work by Violet Graham, a prolific water colour artist who spent her life in Congresbury and specialised in paintings of local scenes around the Mendips. The exhibition was organised by Jane Dixon and Mike McLennan, who found owners prepared to loan their pictures for the exhibition. Violet was a spinster who lived with her twin sister, Cynthia, who painted in oils. Both had been missionaries in Africa. Former Congresbury dairy farmers, Alan and Sue Collins, enjoyed the exhibition. Sue said: “The painting with sheep in the snow was on our farm, called Iwood Farm.” Mike said: “We believe she had been painting for a long time and we advertised locally to see if anyone would care to offer their paintings for the exhibition. Quite a few people saw the adverts and kindly offered to loan their pictures. “Without them there would have been no exhibition. Some people had several paintings, others just one. “By far the majority of the pictures were of local scenes, and it was no surprise that local people soon identified the various locations.”
Jane Dixon and Mike McLennan
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ARTS & ANTIQUES
Florentine cabinet discovered in a Weston-super-Mare flat CLEVEDON Salerooms’ June 13th Quarterly Specialist Sale includes this fine Italian pietra dura (hard stone) ebonised cabinet dating from the 19th century. A tour de force of cabinet making, the cabinet was discovered in a basement flat during an inheritance tax valuation in Weston-super-Mare. The auction promises to be a jolly affair as there are no less
than five different Beers on offer to bidders; not the hop-based variety, but the desirable oil portrait paintings of pigeons by Bristol artist Andrew Beer (1862-1954). Expected to take off is the rarer and hence more desirable pigeon pairing depicting “Windsor Lass” and “Windsor Lad” with expectations of £800 – £1,200. The online sale catalogue will be available to view from June 1st.
Andrew Beer oil pigeon portraits £800 – £1,200
Italian Pietra Dura Cabinet £8,000 – £12,000
For more information or for a free valuation of items you may be thinking of selling visit www.clevedon-salerooms.com Every lot in every auction, illustrated and sold with live internet bidding
Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers
FREE AnTiQuE VALuATiOn DAYS 17th & 18th June
Italian pietra dura cabinet £8,000 £12,000
A Wilde-Parsons, Oil, Harbour Scene £400 - £600
9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary
Antiques, Interiors, Collectables & Jewellery Thursday 27th June Sale starts at 10.30am On view day before 10am – 6.30pm
Tel: 01934 830111 The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT www.clevedon-salerooms.com
Staunton chess set £1,000 - £1,500
Brietling Chronomat £750 - £1,000
Quarterly Specialist Sale Thursday 13th June at 10.30am Viewing day: 12th June 10am – 6.30pm Sale day from 9am. Online catalogue available 1st June MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 37
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Winford Duck Derby
Beltane in Glastonbury
EVENTS
Celidh Ap-Farender in Glastonbury High Street
HUNDREDS of people gathered in and around Glastonbury on May Day to celebrate Beltane – the traditional Celtic-themed start of summer, halfway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice.
Sandie Darling (left) and Andy Williamson, two of the organisers, with the Green Man
The crowning ceremony by the Market Cross The celebrations make their way through the town
PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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RH
Windows
THE CHEW VALLEY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED WINDOW COMPANY WITH A REPUTATION BUILT ON QUALITY AND SERVICE FOR CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS AND DOORS IN HARDWOOD OR UPVC
HARDWOOD JOINERY SPECIALISTS www.rhwindowsltd.co.uk
Telephone: 01761 452171 Fax: 01761 453342
TOPSOIL AND STONE SUPPLIES Dry high quality screened or unscreened Topsoil. Recycled aggregates and quarry stone supplies, road planings and building stone.
DEMOLITION AND STRIP OUT All types of demolition works. From small household to main contractor projects, including rail, schools and city centre redevelopments. Complete range of specialist equipment and services available.
ASBESTOS Asbestos removal and collection. Roof sheets, tiles and guttering. Call for information.
TRANSPORT 4,6 and 8 wheeled tipper Lorries for hire and muck away. Low loader, beaver tail and road brush hire.
PLANT HIRE Wide range of plant. 360 excavators, Dumpers, Bulldozers and Crushers.
EXCAVATIONS Large and small excavations. Specialist works include Equestrian all weather surfaces, drainage and bulk excavations.
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MENDIP TIMES
Travel agent wins new award
LOCAL travel agent Miles Morgan Travel have picked up yet another award being named the best Escorted Touring and Adventure Travel Agency of the year for UK and Ireland for the second year running. The award recognises their expertise in escorted touring including their travel specialists’ ability to recommend different types of tour and travel company based on their own first-hand experience. The award was presented at the annual Travel Trade Gazette Awards at The Vox in Birmingham. Managing director Miles Morgan said: “It is fantastic for a regional company like ours to be recognised with a national award. The UK has 8,000 or so travel agencies and to come top is a huge accolade for our staff in our 15 branches. “We are now main agent for the South West and Wales for all major companies in this exciting area of
PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
travel, the likes of Riviera Travel, Titan, Cox and Kings and Saga too and this has certainly helped us.” The award comes on the back of a whole host received by the agency last year, including being voted the best travel agency chain in the South West and Wales and even more impressively being voted the best travel agency chain in the whole of the UK.
Manager of the Wells branch, Margaret Moulton, said: “We were so pleased to hear we had won after the effort that we had all put in. We are so grateful to our customers who supported us with their bookings during the past 12 months. “We are seeing so many return again but also recommending friends to book us which is lovely. It’s a proud moment for us.”
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Learn to know your limitations I LOVE Alexander Pope – well, not personally, of course, because he lived between 1688 and 1744 – but I do admire his wit and his writing. He famously wrote couplets which are still relevant, and one that many of us know and use (often incorrectly – smack on the wrist!) is: “A little learning is a dangerous thing; Drink deep, or taste not the Pierean spring.” Working, as I do, with a bunch of highly trained professionals, this has become something of a motto. As you can imagine, I do glean bits of information as I take part in meetings or read articles or messages from HMRC. Thus, it becomes very important when someone asks me a technical question about accounting that I pass it on like a hot potato. Actually, were it not for learning my tables and quite enjoying algebra at school, I would describe myself as “barely numerate” and what I can’t do with a calculator is simply astounding. Similarly, I don’t expect the financial wizards to be able to formulate a plan for public relations (PR) or marketing within the company or for a client. This was the world that I cut my teeth in many moons ago in the West End of London and fascinating work it was (and is) too. Thus I come to the moral of this tale, which is: in business, stick to what you are best at. Life should certainly include adventures and it can be exciting and life-enhancing to have a crack at new things, but every new step in business needs to be researched and planned carefully. Here’s the message: just because we can’t do everything, it doesn’t make us bad business people. Now is a particularly good time to do a thorough listing of your skills and what we might call your “not-so-
BUSINESS skills” and to decide where help is required. While all VAT registered companies are now having to report under the Making Tax Digital rules (i.e. with quarterly returns) it is planned that this system will be rolled out across the entire business world eventually – no matter how small your business is! Not only is this going to be time-consuming, but it is also going to be complex. Once again, it is time to do my favourite thing – prepare! Find out all you can about it, read about it, ask a professional about it, don’t, whatever you do, prepare simply by chatting about it in the pub. I am a firm believer that a little expenditure up-front can save a lot later when mistakes have to be put right. Over the quarter of a century we have been working with the business community across this country and abroad, there have, sadly, been instances where a lack of sufficient and detailed “learning” have brought people to our door in considerable anxiety, especially when they have taken some unfortunate and mistaken action. Believe me, it isn’t worth it. HMRC have an uncanny way of sniffing out such misdemeanours and making businesses pay for them with knobs on. Well, Pope’s little couplet shows a lot of common sense. I am tempted to share another with you, which seems quite relevant at the moment and shows how some things never change; it is this: “For forms of government let fools contest, What ’ere is best administered is best!” There ain’t nothing new under the sun! Have a good summer. Jane Bowe Probusiness
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 41
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MENDIP TIMES
We don’t just do funerals . . .
WELLS Funeral Services has a mantra: “We don’t just do funerals, we do a celebration of life.” Since setting up in business in September 2016, the independent funeral director has prided itself on delivering funerals that people want; establishing their client’s needs, wants and budget is of paramount importance to them as a business. Rod Major, who founded Wells Funeral Services explained: “We like to get to know our families and so for us that means a trip to Wells market, and to be visible to one and all on a Wednesday from January to November you will find one or often both of us on our market stall. “Reaching out to help with advice, and we like to talk about anything and everything, it’s more getting to know you. Why sit in an office waiting for the phone to ring, when after all people like to see who they are dealing with and get some good old fashion banter!” Wells Funeral Services specialises in funeral plans which can be paid for in full, or spread over one to ten years, with deposits starting from just £80. Glowing reviews on websites such as Google would appear to support the company’s approach to providing a personal service and Rod added: “You’re only as good as the last funeral delivered.”
We don’t just do funerals, we do a celebration of life
P & C Logs
Summer prices from 1st June to 1st September
Call Phil on 07734 098323, or Colleen on 07785 250033 or on Evenings 01934 741941
A Professional Company serving the South West
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).
PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Bus plan for Chew Valley
MEMBERS of Chew Valley Chamber of Commerce have been discussing a plan with First Bus which could improve public transport links throughout the area. It would involve a minibus circulating the Valley before linking up with the half-hourly services on the A37 which would provide a link to Bristol, Bath, Sandy Bell (centre) Wells and the Somer Valley. with Chris Hanson, Chamber president, Sandy Bell, said: from First Bus, and “We need to have a sense of the likely Sue Arrowsmith, demand for a bus link of this kind. Once transport consultant we have established that, we can work out a potential route, estimate the costs and put a plan together.” Details: tintinna@aol.com
Burglar Alarms ✵ Fire Alarms ✵ CCTV Systems ✵ Insurance approved ✵ Installation, maintenance, repairs and upgrades ✵ Central Station Monitoring ✵ Local engineers Tel: 01275 331914 sales@chewvalleyalarm.co.uk www.chewvalleyalarm.co.uk
Relax knowing your property is protected
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MENDIP TIMES
Barbering course beckons for Madison
CELEBRATING OUR 25th ANNIVERSARY
Branches at: Street: 68 High Street, BA16 0EH. Tel: 01458 446899 Shepton Mallet: 3 Commercial Road, BA4 5BY. Tel: 01749 346926 Wells: 17 Sadler Street, BA5 2RR. Tel: 01749 939432
Discount days across all three shops: Tuesdays: Kids day – £8 Wednesdays: Students – £8 Thursdays: Senior Citizens – £7
www.minksysbarbers.com
PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Maddie at work in Minsky’s Dolls in Wells
YOUNG hairdresser Madison Wyatt-Mullins, who works at the Minsky’s chain of shops run by her parents Clive and Vicki, is about to begin a ten-week course in becoming a barber. Maddie, aged 18, will be joined on the NVQ course at the Mike Taylor Academy in Poole by her brother Rye, aged 16. Maddie is a familiar face at Minksy’s Dolls, part of the Minsky’s shop in Wells.
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Capital gains and inheritance tax update
IF you are in later life and are likely to pay either inheritance tax or capital gains tax on property, shares or any other assets then it is worth giving your affairs a quick rethink. Both capital gains tax and inheritance tax have changed and are continuing to change. Both, to some extent, have become slightly more generous. As a result, there is more scope to plan to reduce their impact. We are not talking about complicated avoidance schemes: just plain, straightforward tax planning. The change to capital gains tax was announced in the recent Budget. The
rate of the tax has fallen from 28pc to 20pc for higher-rate taxpayers and from 18pc to 10pc for basic-rate taxpayers. Good news indeed apart from residential property, where gains will still be charged at the old rates (your main home, of course, remains exempt from CGT), so we are talking about holiday homes or buy-to-lets. With that change now in effect, there is another, potentially related, change ticking away in the background – the forthcoming extension of the inheritance tax “nil rate band” that will apply to family homes. This applies fully from the year 2020/21 and gives an extra £175,000 allowance for a family home per person, on top of the individual £325,000 allowance. In total, a couple then get to bequeath £1m IHT-free. Remember, if you die with uncrystallised gains on any asset those gains disappear at death. Instead, inheritance tax applies in the usual way at the rate of 40pc on the assets above the nil-rate band. The point is the interplay between these two taxes and how it has subtly changed. You own property or shares on which there are large uncrystallised gains With shares, in essence, the changes mean you might consider selling them sooner rather than later. Assuming you’re a higher-rate taxpayer your gain will now be taxed at 20pc instead of 28pc. That is half the rate of IHT that
BUSINESS would apply if you were to die with assets over and above the IHT nil-rate band. If you did the sums before the CGT change, do them again – taking the new family home allowance into account, too. Hanging on to property and including it within an estate would mean a tax of 40pc Where you own a holiday home or other second property on which there is a large gain, it might be better to die owning it. Selling now would trigger a 28pc tax on your gain. Hanging on to the property and including it within your estate would mean a tax of 40pc, again only on the portion of your estate above the threshold. Depending on the value of your main home, and assuming you die after April 2020, you might escape tax altogether. There are plenty of other factors in the mix. Many people want to give assets away in later years either to help offspring or as part of their estate planning. Again, your decision on what’s best to sell i.e property or shares might be influenced by the now different rates of CGT. You could downsize your main home and give away the cash released. You would still be able to benefit from the extra allowance, which applies to your more expensive, former home under the new IHT rules. 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 • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 45
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It started with a loo
Balloon flights over the Chew Valley, Mendips and Somerset Levels
Beautiful Luxury Toilet Hire Weddings, Parties, Corporate Events Also Construction loos, Welfare, Septic Tank Emptying, Drainage Installation Tel: 01458 851234 Mob: 07977 521325 Email: admin@silverstreetloos.co.uk Web: www.silverstreetloos.co.uk
BUSINESS
Attention to detail – especially on a wedding day
SILVER Street Loos pride themselves not only on the high specification and impeccable quality of the facilities they hire out – it’s the attention to the little details that mean so much also. Based at Manor Farm in the quiet village of Barton St David, Silver Street Loos began in 2010 with just one portable toilet; now they are providing luxury trailer services throughout the south of England – whether that’s for a wedding or corporate function to glamping and festivals. They also provided facilities at the London Paralympics in 2012. The attention to detail is evident in the fresh flowers and sleek décor inside the toilets but also in the cleanliness and maintenance – Silver Street Loos can provide attendants as well. The company – headed by Phil and Rachael Lettieri – also offer facilities for construction sites as well as other services such as welfare unit servicing and septic tank disposal. Rachael said: “We get to work with so many lovely people.”
Mendip Times reduces travel costs 100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business
PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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Blagdon Church Fete Isabella having her face painted by Lisa Martin
Sarah Mead and Jenny Barr on the plants stall
EVENTS
School fete is a hoot
EVERCREECH Primary School’s fundraising May Fayre had something for everyone – live music, birds of prey, food and drink, live music and even a mini circus show.
Gemma Sherlock on the – adults-only – bottle stall
Nancy and Polly were amongst the pupils running their own stalls
Blagdon, Ubley and Compton Martin's curate Alex Holmes splatting the rat
Henri, aged five, and mum Linda with Winston, a 14-year-old barn owl from Pitcombe Rock Falconry
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 47
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FOCUS ON WRINGTON
New production
SLIGHTLY later than usual, Wrington Drama Club will be presenting their new spring show The Ladykillers by Graham Linehan. The play has been adapted from the original Ealing comedy featuring an ensemble cast including Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers to name but a few. The show is directed by Larry Van Haaren with club members, old and new, working together to create a comic tour de force! The show runs from Wednesday, June 19th at 7.30pm, for four nights, with the final performance on Saturday, June 22nd. Tickets are available from Amors and Buglers or from Richard Kingcott, 07767 778297.
Wrington garden trail
OVER 20 gardens will be open for Wrington’s garden trail, which is being held on Saturday, June 22nd. The event is held every other year and raises funds for Vine Counselling and the organ fund at the village’s
All Saints’ Church. A ploughman's lunch and drinks will be available from 12.302pm at Brookside, Church Walk and teas at Piltdown, Church Walk from 3-4pm. Programmes cost £5.
MOTHER HEN COFFEE AND GIFTS
Broad Street, Wrington, BS40 5LA
Serving cakes, coffee, teas, milkshakes and light lunches – Lots of interesting gifts and cards – Children’s clothing and toys – Pottery painting, decoupage and canvas bag painting – Catering for parties of all ages Open Tuesday to Friday 9.30am–5pm Saturday 10am–4pm
Find us on Facebook or call 01934 863889
PAGEP?? AGE •M 48ENDIP • MENDIP TIMES TIMES • DECEMBER • JUNE 2019 2011
Zero Waste Pantry
Inside Mother Hen, Broad Street, BS40 5LX
Plastic and packaging free shopping. Bring a jar, bag or container and fill with only as much as you want from a range of dried fruits, grains, nuts, herbs and spices, oils, vinegars and cleaning products.
Why not come in for a visit to see what its all about
Open Thursday 9.30am-7pm, Friday 9.30am-6pm and Saturday 10am-4pm
Facebook @zerowastepantry www.zerowastepantry.co.uk
At the centre of village life
MOTHER Hen in Broad Street, Wrington has become the village hub, run by Sophie Williams, and also houses the Zero Waste Pantry set up by Kelly Moylan. Sophie has been running the café since October 2017, also offering gifts, toys and children’s clothes, as well as pottery, jewellery making and other classes, music nights and special events like a curry night on Saturday, June 22nd. Kelly started her business in the distinctive former Richards store after working as a veterinary nurse. She offers food and liquid refills, avoiding unnecessary packaging, promising goods that are British, Fairtrade and organic.
Kitchen and joinery experts
THE Home and Kitchen Store, based in Wrington, are passionate about building quality hand-made kitchens and furniture. Their team of designers, project managers and cabinet makers are committed to creating stunning but practical kitchens and
joinery for your home. They promise to build unique kitchens and cabinetry that not only give you the wow factor but will last the test of time with quality design and beautiful materials. They offer a friendly and free design service with no obligation. Go and visit their large showroom in Wrington, where you can see a wide display of bespoke and pre-made kitchens and discuss your requirements. With new high quality pre-made option from JJO they can offer a range of kitchens that cater for all tastes, habits, desires and of course budgets. Which means that no matter what your requirements you can benefit from their Five Star customer service.
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MENDIP TIMES
Treatment in a special location
IWOOD Manor Lodge Treatment Rooms are set in one of the most idyllic locations in North Somerset. As you drive through the gates at Iwood Manor, your therapy begins, setting the scene for the fantastic, hand-selected therapists to lead you through any situation and ailment. Iwood Manor Lodge is situated between Wrington and Congresbury on Iwood Lane. There is ample parking and fantastic access to all, making your visit to them as smooth as can be. Their incredibly skilled therapists offer a great range of treatments to assist your health and wellbeing.
Idyllic Complimentary Therapy Centre in Wrington
Jackie Pamment, Acupuncturist 01934 876558/07789 905390 Victoria Gazzard, Reflexology and Massage 07701 046226 Paul House, Remedial Sports Massage Therapy 07463 243423
Ross Titmuss, Shiatsu 07951 543105 Sarah DiMambro, Reiki 07821 397116 Dan Lloyd, Acupuncturist 07815 814886
Bennetts is a niche and boutique commercial law firm operating out of modern offices at Barley Wood Stables, Long Lane, Wrington. Our lawyers combine specialist legal knowledge with broad practical experience. We can be relied on to give clear and positive advice on a wide range of complex or routine matters whether preventative or remedial. Bennetts Solicitors Attorneys & Notaries Barley Wood Stables, Long Lane, Wrington Bristol BS40 5SA Phone: (44) 1934 862786 • Fax: (44) 1934 862404 Webpage: www.bennettlaw.co.uk e-mail: info@bennettlaw.co.uk PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Garage moves with the times
THERE has been a garage in Wrington for around 100 years, initially in Golden Lion mews, moving over the road to the current site of Wrington Motors about 80 years ago. Petrol has been sold for a long time; when the current owner Melvyn Freeman started working there in 1983 there were two petrol pumps dispensing 2 star, 3 star and 4 star petrol. Soon after a new pump was installed to sell diesel using one of the existing underground fuel tanks. These tanks are now well past their design life expectancy and are being decommissioned to eliminate any risk of pollution. The investment required to dig up the old tanks and install new ones is prohibitive, especially as in a few years’ time lots of us will be driving electric cars. No longer selling petrol and diesel has given the reception staff more time to concentrate on the main activity of Wrington Motors which is servicing, repairing and MOT testing of cars and light commercials. Along with many years of experience working on petrol and diesel powered vehicles, the workshop technicians have also been trained to work on hybrid and electric cars. You can still check your tyre pressures with the free air line and the sale of LPG, red diesel, Flogas bottled gas and AdBlue are unaffected
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New clinic in Wrington
A NEW wellbeing clinic has opened up at the picturesque Iwood Manor Lodge in Wrington. The clinic specialises in health and wellbeing concerns of women at all stages of life using a mind/body approach. Victoria Gazzard MFHT, holistic practitioner for over ten years, has been supporting the emotional and physical challenges that arise from the key transitions and changes in a woman’s life – from puberty to pregnancy and into the menopausal years. The main ethos of the business is to provide a nurturing and supportive space where women can be listened to, coached and guided through challenging times and situations. Victoria predominantly works with women struggling with gynaecological and hormonal disorders such as PCOS, endometriosis, menstrual issues, irregular cycles, fertility challenges, IVF and helps support women with miscarriage and loss. She supports pregnant women from early pregnancy up until birth and the post-natal time. She has a keen interest in supporting maternal mental health and has brought her work into antenatal and postnatal groups and uses EFT and Rewind Technique for birth trauma. Victoria also helps to rebalance hormonal health including during times of hormonal change and to assist with perimenopausal symptoms.
FOCUS ON WRINGTON
Successful first year
REBECCA Palmer is about to celebrate the first anniversary of her wonderful new Beauty Room in Wrington. She says she is busier than ever! After working at various salons and spas, including the prestigious Cowshed Spa at Babington House and the spa at Cadbury House, where she was manager for five years, she set up her own business in an outbuilding at her home. She said: “I would love to take the opportunity to say a big thank you to all my loyal customers old and new, and I am certainly looking forward an exciting future ahead, with new treatments including Radio Frequency Collagen lifting, and IPL skin rejuvenation and hair reduction.”
Details: www.victoriagazzard.com
10% OFF WHEN MENTIONING THIS ADVERT
High Street, Wrington, North Somerset, BS40 5QA Tel : 01934 862871 www.theploughatwrington.co.uk • eat@theploughwrington.co.uk Rebecca offers a wide range of professional beauty treatments, including eyelash lift, Brazilian waxing, eyebrow shaping, deep tissue massage, anti-ageing facials, microdermabrasion facials, and manicure & pedicure.
We would like to invite you to come and enjoy our recently beautifully refurbished pub Country bistro cuisine, fine wines, delicious beers and a warm welcome awaits
Open by appointment only Monday-Wednesday 9am-9pm Thursday-Friday 9am-3pm • Saturday 10am-1pm To make an appointment please call Rebecca on 07827 159633 GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE
26 Orchard Close, Wrington, Bristol, BS40 5ND
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Email: the beautyroomwrington@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.thebeautyroomwrington.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 51
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Expert eye advice MARIAN Donovan has a small practice in the heart of Wrington, offering a personal, friendly service. Paula will be on hand to welcome you in reception and Marian, with 40 years of experience, will carry out the eye examination. Free parking is usually available outside the premises in Broad Street and the shop is
• Sight Tests • Glasses • Contact Lenses Home visits available by appointment
wheelchair accessible. In addition to sight tests and new spectacles, sometimes they can re-glaze your own frames, subject to their condition, and carry out minor repairs and adjustments which can usually be done while you wait but it may be worth a call before you go. They also stock a variety of eye drops, magnifiers, contact lens solution, cloths and cases. Marian’s advice is: “Before you come in, it is worth looking at the lighting around your house; as we get older, we need more light than we realise and so often, it is only ambient, diffuse light instead of direct lighting shining on what we are doing.” She says sunglasses are often overlooked too – not only do they cut down on glare and brightness but they also serve to protect your eyes from damaging UV light.
FOCUS ON WRINGTON
Wrington fun run
The start
WRINGTON School PTA’s annual fun run, first held in 1982, attracted 315 runners this year. The event covered a 3k route around the village and was supported by Cadbury House.
Collecting their medals
Warming up
The Lovell family all ran PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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A chance to make a difference
SSAFA, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association was formed in 1885 and is the oldest military charity in the U.K. The organisation provides practical and emotional support for serving personnel, veterans and military families. Currently the charity is looking to recruit new caseworkers in Somerset. Mike Hodson explains his role as a caseworker, the challenges that arise and the rewards that result.
COMMON sense and an open mind are key attributes that I bring to being a SSAFA caseworker, as well as being prepared to see the unexpected. I became involved three years ago as I knew someone who was already working for the charity. They found it fulfilling, the ability to really make a difference. It resonated with me, I felt that I had the right sort of life experience and some time available to devote to it. The needs have changed. In the past, aged veterans in particular might have had simple practical needs to address, perhaps fixing white goods, or making their living accommodation easier for them to get around if their physical health was making things difficult. In some cases now it has developed into a quasi-social worker role, particularly with an increased number of younger veterans needing help. For instance, I recently helped an injured soldier from the Afghan campaign who needed money for counselling as his poor mental health was causing a strain on his marriage. We also help families. Another case involved a retired soldier with
unmanageable debts and PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) as well as a very disabled daughter whose condition was not likely to improve. He needed an extension building for her specialised equipment, and in conjunction with local authorities and other charities, £56,000 was raised as a total project cost for him. Without SSAFA involvement the project might well not have reached fruition. A caseworker needs to be prepared to be a critical friend and used to dealing with people. Issues with debt, different types of addiction and relationships understandably need a different approach to sorting someone out with a new gas stove. You become an advocate and quickly learn when to back off or push ahead to nudge someone to make a balanced decision about their way forward. A high number of those in need just don’t know where to go for help. There can also be a pride issue as well. I don’t judge, I just take things at face value and map out if there is a legitimate need and how SSAFA can help. Some charities are increasingly helping local authorities with their social services
Shrouds of the Somme in Somerset
SSAFA will be hosting a unique event at the Royal Bath and West Showground on Thursday, June 20th when Somersetbased artist Rob Heard will be talking about his Shrouds of the Somme installation project. Around 3,000 of the six-inch shrouded effigies – just some of the thousands Rob created to mark the losses of the first day of the Battle of the Somme – will be laid out in the main arena of the showground. This is the first time that the shrouds will be displayed in the county. Rob, from Watchet, will be talking about his life and signing copies of a book about the project in the Wessex Pavilion. l Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7.15pm start. A Q&A will follow Rob’s talk before supper. Tickets are now available online at
Caseworker Mike Hodson
statutory obligations, yet those in need often may lack the ability to elucidate themselves or complete forms and processes that set them on track to get assistance. One client merely needed a reference for renting a house. It’s important to act and respond quickly and start the process to getting improvements acted upon. It needs compassion but also a clear head that knows how and when to stand back and not get involved. I would usually have just a small number of cases on the go at one time, all at different stages of progress and it’s important that each client knows the latest developments on their case, rather than feeling forgotten. They might have felt forgotten in the past, but contacting SSAFA is the first step to solving issues for those that have served and those who still do, along with their families. It brings me huge satisfaction, making a difference.
Rob Heard and Shrouds of the Somme
www.bathandwest.yourticketbooking.com/p/RobHeard priced at £29.95 to include a two-course evening meal. Very limited tickets are also available for the talk only at £12.50.
For more details about becoming a caseworker call 020 8938 3633 for an informal chat, or email somerset.branch@ssafa.org.uk
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Bloodbikes benefit from garden party
Andrew Peaple, a volunteer with Freewheelers Bloodbikes, is pictured with masons (l:r) Richard Bilsom, Chris James, Tony Cooper and Kenneth Kinnersley
THE outgoing master of the Connaught Freemasons Lodge in Midsomer Norton has presented cheques for more than £2,000 to the charity Freewheelers Bloodbikes. Chris James raised more than £1,500 from a garden party last year at his home and a ladies’ festival; the Provincial Charity Fund added a further £500.
CHARITIES
Hair’s to a good cause
DOG groomer Teniesha Gunton “braved the shave” to raise around £1,400 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Teniesha, aged 20, who works at Paws to Claws at Rookery Farm, Binegar, decided to lose her locks in memory of her late grandfather, Steve. The shave took place during an open day at the farm and Teniesha has donated her hair to the Little Princess Before … Trust charity which provides real-hair wigs for children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer or other conditions. … and after … Teniesha Gunton
New partnership
Charity appeal
NEONATAL charity, The NICU Foundation, has launched the first animation of its kind and a new partnership with the South West Neonatal Network, with the aim of raising awareness and funds for the 12 neonatal units in the region stretching from Gloucester to Truro. The event, which was held at Clevedon Hall in North Somerset, welcomed doctors, nurses and consultants who were able to learn more about the new partnership and how the funds raised by the charity can support neonatal units across the region. Details: www.nicufoundation.co.uk or email hello@nicufoundation.co.uk
A CHARITY appeal led by Cllr Karen Walker, the chairwoman of Bath & North East Somerset Council, has raised £4,500 for local charitable causes. She and her husband David are pictured presenting £2,237.54 each to Yvonne Brunton from Dorothy House and Alex Millard from the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
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Bright cider life for new friendship group
Band aids fight against pancreatic cancer
A NEW branch of the charity Contact the Elderly is to open in Bruton – with the help of funding from a village’s cider festival. Contact the Elderly runs afternoon teas once a month, allowing isolated older people to make new friends, be in company and share their stories. The Bruton group will meet on the first Sunday of each month, starting on June 2nd at 2pm. Fiona Franklin and Fiona MacIntosh, from the charity, were amongst the guests at the annual Upton Noble cider celebration. Villagers donate apples each year to be processed by professional cider makers with the results – called Uptonogood – launched in the village hall. l Spaces for the first get-together are still available, For details contact Fiona Franklin, South West Support Officer Somerset, Devon and Cornwall on 01934 316578, email fiona.franklin@contact-the-elderly.org.uk or visit: www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk
THE ladies of Somerset’s Pink Bra’ss band presented a cheque for £1,500 to John Lewis, the local ambassador for the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund, at their first rehearsal of the year. John explained that pancreatic cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths and shockingly only three percent of those diagnosed survive. Over the last three years Pink Br’ass have donated a total of £6,500 to cancer charities and appeals – Breast Cancer Now, the Stephen Sykes Appeal and now the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund. In January 2018, founding band member, Heather Ackerman, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died in March this year. The band is currently rehearsing and planning their next fundraising concert, which will be held on July 6th at Wells Town Hall, supporting Prostate Cancer UK. As part of their fundraising activities the band is organising a raffle with the prize draw taking place at the concert. They ask any local businesses that would like to donate a prize to contact Pat Trott via the Pink Bra’ss Facebook page.
SHEPTON Mallet 41 Club president Andrew Liggatt presented a cheque for £750 to guests Janet Loe and Cas Sandy from the Macmillan Cancer Support Group at the club’s annual meeting at the Poachers Pocket. Andrew then went on to say how much he had enjoyed his year as 41 Club president before handing the president jewels to new president, Keith Jenkins. Keith rounded off the evening welcoming Robin Weelen as the new 41 Club vice president.
SUPPORT staff in the Business Hub at Frome College raised £116.61 for the Forever Friends appeal at Bath RUH by baking Valentine’s themed cakes. Lauren Noble from the RUH is pictured (left) with college staff (l to r) Tracey Sainsbury, finance, Natasha Rushton, trips coordinator, Principal Emma Reynolds and Jane Davis, communications officer.
Contact the Elderly officers Fiona Franklin and Fiona MacIntosh with some of the festival organisers
Charity cheque
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Charity cakes
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Tackling the Mendip Challenge WESTON Hospicecare’s flagship fundraising event, the Mendip Challenge, will take place on Sunday, June 2nd, offering participants a chance to walk ten, 20 or 30 miles across the Mendip Hills. One of those taking part, Louise Walsh, from Axbridge says her dad, Peter, was so grateful for the care given to him by the hospice before he died in January after a battle with pancreatic cancer. She will take on the ten-mile Mendip Challenge route with friends Keith, Bernie and Nick as team PJ in memory of her dad. Louise said: “If I can just help in a small way to give something back to the hospice it will be worth every sore muscle and blister! “I really cannot explain just how amazing the hospice and all the staff there are. My dad was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer in late 2017 and it was only a short time before the wonderful hospice team stepped in to offer support to our family. “My mum was also offered support through the wellbeing centre at the hospice with regular treatments. As dad’s main carer, it was just a little bit of time for her to relax and escape the physical and emotional stresses of caring for dad. “Later on, dad was admitted as an in-patient to the hospice for ten days and the whole time he was there he kept saying how lovely all the staff were and how grateful he was for their care. “It may sound strange, but I felt the hospice was a lifesaver. Caring for dad at home had become physically impossible for my mum and the stress of that on both her and dad was incredible. “Being admitted to the hospice to spend his final days allowed
Louise with dad Peter
dad to stop worrying about mum trying to care for him, and for mum to stop stressing about keeping him safe and pain-free. “It meant they were able to become husband and wife again instead of patient and carer. “For my brothers and I this was just the best thing to witness and it made dad’s final two weeks as comfortable and relaxed as they could possibly be. “I will never be able to thank the staff enough for what they did for dad and for mum. I know he received excellent 24-hour care when he was there. Every single staff member and volunteer we met during dad’s stay were lovely and our visits were always pleasant. “My dad was very clear on how he felt about the hospice so in honour of him I shall be proud to be taking part in the Mendip Challenge.” In 2018 the Mendip Challenge raised more than £66,000 for the hospice and already this year more than 550 people have signed up. Entry costs £15 per adult and £10 per child and participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship on top.
Details: westonhospicecare.org.uk/mendip
World record attempt needs you
CHARITY fundraiser Rachel Clark and her team are urging people to sign up for a skittles world record attempt in Frome on Sunday, June 2nd, 9am-5pm. This is the third word record attempt by the team, who successfully beat the world record for the most people to take part in a 24-hour continuous “rowathon” on an indoor rowing machine in June last year. Around 150 people have already signed up for the event, which will see participants play a continuous eight-hour game of skittles outside Frome Library. However, in order to beat the record, the team need at least 480 players. All proceeds from the event go to local charity We Hear You (WHY) who provide free professional counselling for anyone affected by cancer or a life threatening condition.
Rachel said: “Frome are already world record holders and I know the people who will help us smash another record are out there. This year’s challenge is genuinely open to all – it was great to see a huge range of people take on the rowathon last year, but some people were understandably
put off by the physical nature of the challenge. “This year, you don’t even need to break a sweat and nobody has to stay up all night! All you need to be able to do is throw three skittles balls and hit at least one pin.”
Details: email fromeworldrecordskittles@gmail.com or go to https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/skittlesworldrecord
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Join the big knit
AGE UK Somerset has received over 10,000 little knitted hats as part of the Big Knit fundraising campaign. But the local charity is seeking more knitters of all abilities to help them reach their target of 16,000 by the end of July. The Big Knit is now in its 16th year and for each hat the charity can provide to go on Smoothie bottles in October, Innocent Drinks donate 25p. This money is then used towards projects which aim to make life better for older people across Somerset and North Somerset. All hats should be sent in to the charity’s office in Taunton by the deadline of July 31st but a number of drop-off points have been set up across the county. Details: www.ageuksomerset.org.uk call 01823 345610 or email info@ageuksomerset.org.uk
Has Wells got talent?
WELLS'S Got Talent in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice is now taking entries and will be held on Saturday, September 28th in the ballroom of Wells Town Hall. Organiser Tina Blackwill has an impressive team of judges – Celia Wride the former mayor of Wells, Philip Welch, former local editor, Jacky Edwards who played Wishy Washy in Wells pantomime and Michael Smith a children’s entertainer. Emma Britton from the BBC will be a celebrity guest judge – she is a patron of St Margaret’s Hospice. The compere for the evening is Allan Trinder of GFM. It costs £10 to enter and £5 to go on the night. Details: tina.blackwill@live.co.uk 07450 367805
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Couple open wheelchair centre in India
BACKWELL couple John and Jane Sleigh were invited to open a new wheelchair centre during their visit to Southern India. The visit was arranged by Motivation, a Bristol-based disability and development charity that provides wheelchairs, services and training to disabled people in developing countries. John and Jane Sleigh cut the ribbon The pair were visiting a Motivation partner in Kerala to see the work of the Tropical Health Foundation for India, which identifies, assesses, and supplies appropriate wheelchairs for local disabled people. John and Jane had the honour of cutting the ribbon and declaring the centre open. They suspect more photos were taken that day than on their wedding day! John Sleigh, a long-time volunteer for Motivation, said: “The day spent with Motivation and Tropical Health Foundation in Kerala was the most special on a memorable visit to India. The enthusiasm and dedication of the staff at the centre and the delight shown by the families benefitting from Motivation’s work was truly inspiring. “To witness first-hand the benefits the charity provides for people was an unforgettable honour. We would like to thank all the people that made the visit possible.” David Constantine, founder director of Motivation, said: “Volunteers like John have always been invaluable to our charitable work. All the staff at Motivation are incredibly grateful to John for his contributions to our team in the UK over the years. “We’re really pleased that he was able to meet some of the people who benefit from our work with partners and to see how his efforts feed into our aim to enable greater independence and opportunity for disabled people in developing countries.”
Remembering refugees
WELLS Amnesty Group is staging an exhibition at the Bishop’s Palace in Wells to support Refugee Week. It will feature the “I Welcome” exhibition of photographs of refugees through the decades, a giant map showing which countries take in the most refugees and a special tapestry. The event, from June 9th-13th, will be opened by the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt Rev Peter Hancock.
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Students support Red Cross
TEXTILES students at Strode College have been working on a collaborative project with the Red Cross for their annual week of celebration, Red Cross week. The students made iconic fashion pieces from paper to display in the shop windows of local Red Cross branches exploring the decades from 1930-1990 and referencing iconic designers and Scarlett Crofts fashions of the day. There were seven garments in total on display across four local Red Cross shops in Crewkerne, Street, Yeovil and Weymouth and all used recycled paper and packaging in their creation. Sarah Taylor, Red Cross manager in Crewkerne and Sue Green, textiles course manager at Strode College, developed this collaboration during a visit to the charity shop, supported by Tim Hayne from Wessex Packaging who helped with recycled paper products to create the garments. Sue said: “This has been a great way to raise awareness with our younger demographic, of the important work that the Red Cross do and also it has provoked many discussions about fast fashion, waste and sustainability especially in the fashion industry. “The idea behind the project is to raise awareness of the Red Cross and reach out to younger audiences who may not know much about the work of this important charity. We are 1950s design by Scarlet Crofts encouraging recycling and buying second-hand clothing, upcycling and making clothes. “The students have enjoyed exploring different decades, developing their pattern cutting and construction skills and creating their final garments from paper.”
CHARITIES
Taking the high road – in a 1937 car!
Nicholas with some of the SWEDA team outside their offices in Shepton Mallet
RETIRED GP Nicholas Hooper is to drive from Land’s End to John O’Groats and then to Shepton Mallet in his 82-yearold Austin Ten to raise money for the Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association. Nicholas will set off in August on the solo 2,000-mile drive, travelling at a top speed of no more than 50mph. He has owned the car for 52 years, buying it when he was just 19 years old. The former doctor, who lives in Wells, practiced in Wrington and Churchill from 1975-2009. Nicholas said: “As a retired GP I now look back on my 34 years of practice and realise patients rarely presented themselves with conspicuous eating disorder problems. “They usually kept the scale of their problems to themselves and it wasn’t until they became ill through lack of nourishment or they contracted type two diabetes through over-eating, that I would become aware of the true cause of their illness.” SWEDA is based in Shepton Mallet where Nicholas will complete the marathon effort. He added: “It was my first car when I was just 19 years old and it’s remained my mechanical companion ever since. To the amazement of many an AA breakdown mechanic, much of my Austin remains totally original, but from time to time showing the impact of its 82 years.”
Old faithful – Nicholas has owned the 1937 Austin Ten since 1966
To support Nicholas and SWEDA’s work, visit: https://www.swedauk.org/supportus/fundraising/nicholas-grand-tour
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Cary all at sea for the RNLI
CASTLE Cary’s historic horse pond was once again the venue for a charity regatta in aid of the RNLI. Brue Valley Rotary Club provided refreshments, Shepton Mallet Drifters Model Boat Club brought the boats and the RNLI Bruton and District branch sold RNLI merchandise.
Tea is served by Brue Valley Rotarians
All the refreshments were donated by Rotarians and cakes were also donated by Burns the Bread, raising £147. There was also £91.21 in the RNLI collecting buckets and £47.45 worth of RNLI merchandise was sold. Monies raised have been given to the RNLI Mayday campaign.
Admiring the model boats from the Shepton Mallet Drifters Club
Five go on moonwalk
A GROUP of friends from Wells have raised more than £2,000 for breast cancer charities by completing the 22nd London Moonwalk. Angela, Jenny, Zoe, Teresa and Berni – in their bras and fancy dress – completed the 26.2 miles in around nine hours, starting their walk at 10.40pm. The walk began and finished on Clapham Common. As well as taking part in the walk, the friends raised funds through a bag pack at Morrison’s supermarket in Wells, coffee mornings/cake sales and private donations.
Not just tea and cakes
FUNDRAISERS for the charity SWALLOW have netted thousands of pounds in donations after a series of strenuous – and not so strenuous – events. SWALLOW, based at Westfield, supports teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. It is user-led meaning many members are actively taking part in the fundraising initiatives. The charity’s team in the Bath Half Marathon raised more than £5,000 with member, Dan Bates, completing the course and raising more than £1,600 on his own. Meanwhile, a high tea event at Trinity Methodist Church in Radstock raised £500 and a coffee morning at St Peter’s Church in Westfield raised more than £200. Finally, more than 30 members, friends PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Visitors were welcome to try their hands at controlling the boats
Streets of London. (L:r): Angela, Jenny, Zoe, Teresa and Berni
SWALLOW members and friends and family at the Zumbathon
and families took part in a Zumbathon Challenge at Chilcompton Village Hall. Supported by Western Power, the total raised is hoped to be more than £700! Nicky Tew, fundraising and finance manager for SWALLOW, said: “Thank you to everyone who has helped us to raise such a lot of money with these
events. We rely on donations and fundraising and this money will make a huge difference.” l For details about SWALLOW or to support the charity, contact Nicky Tew on nickyt@swallowcharity.org call 01761 414034 or visit www.swallowcharity.org
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High Sheriff supports charities
Pictured (l to r) Claire Wynne Hughes, Aimee, Nicky Tew and Johnnie Halliday at SWALLOW
THE new High Sheriff of Somerset, Johnnie Halliday, has visited four projects in Bath and North East Somerset along with local funder Quartet Community Foundation The visit to Mentoring Plus, Age UK B&NES, SWALLOW and WPA highlighted some of the region’s most pressing social needs. Claire Wynne Hughes, philanthropy executive with Quartet said: “We jumped at the opportunity to introduce the High Sheriff to some of the community groups who’ve benefited from grants thanks to Quartet’s fund holders. The visits also gave the groups the opportunity to explain about the important work they do.” Johnnie Halliday, said: "It was a real privilege to meet so many dedicated and passionate advocates in North East Somerset and to witness the great work of the teams and volunteers involved in their local communities.” l Quartet has over £20,000 available for groups supporting disadvantaged people in North Somerset. Grants of between £500 and £5,000 are available through the North Somerset Community Partnership Grant Programme and groups must apply before June 26th.
Wanted not Wasted benefited from £1,000 through the previous round of grants
Details: https://quartetcf.org.uk/grant-programmes/northsomerset-community-partnership-fund-grant
CHARITIES
Family funds new lifeboat
WESTON RNLI have held a naming and dedication ceremony for their new lifeboat named Adrian Beaumont. The funds for this modern D Class were raised by the family of Adrian Beaumont, a 46-year-old IT expert who loved sailing in all its aspects. Working in Avonmouth he and his family were travelling up the M5 in 2017 when they were involved in a collision. Tragically Adrian and his partner died as a result of their injuries. He is survived by two children. His family decided to honour his memory by fundraising for a new lifeboat for Weston-super-Mare RNLI. His mother, Jenny, had even been a teacher of one of the Weston crew. The lifeboat has been in Weston for a few months and in that time has performed a dozen rescues including one life saved after a woman was plucked from under the sea. The ceremony took place at St John the Baptist Church in Weston. Jenny Beaumont and two of Adrian’s friends spoke of his achievements and Jenny then handed the lifeboat into the care of the RNLI. This was accepted by Weston RNLI lifeboat operations manager Mike Buckland who thanked the family for their donation. He then handed it on to helmsman Liam McDermott who accepted it on behalf of the crew and station. The ceremony then moved outside for the official naming when a bottle of champagne was poured over the bows of the boat. After the ceremony everyone moved down to the old Cove building by Marine Lake to view the lifeboat being taken through its paces on the sea. Jenny Beaumont said to the volunteers: “As a family we were amazed to see so many people filling the church and thought the service, speeches, ceremony, refreshments and demonstration a fitting tribute to everyone's fundraising efforts. “That the Adrian Beaumont was achieved through the generosity and hard work of his family and friends would have chuffed him to bits, and we are pleased to hand over the boat to the Weston-super-Mare RNLI.”
Tailored governance training for trustees
FROME Town Council is to run a training session for trustees of local charities and community groups to learn all about good governance. The course takes place over two days on Thursday, June 20th and Friday, June 21st from 6-9pm at Frome Town Hall. It will introduce attendees to the roles and responsibilities of charity trustees and what this actually means in practice. The training is suitable for both new and more experienced trustees of organisations of all sizes and there will be plenty of time to answer any burning questions. l Tickets for Governance for Trustees cost £30 per person and delegates must attend both sessions. To book, visit: http://buytickets.at/frometowncouncil/196835
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MENDIP TIMES
Norman’s quest is over
FUNDRAISER Norman Carpenter is to call time on his charity music and line-dancing nights in aid of Dorothy House Hospice after five years of events. Since he began Fundraiser Steph Cox receives the cheque the Americanfrom Norman Carpenter themed parties at Paulton Rovers Football Club in memory of his late wife Edith, Norman has increased the amount he has raised year-onyear, finally topping the £1,000 mark. After presenting a cheque for £1,045 to the hospice’s fundraising team at their Winsley base, Norman, of Midsomer Norton, said: “The £1,000 was made on the night; the rest from donations by people who couldn’t attend. “I always had it in mind that I would be happy if I reached £1,000 and that would be time to call it a day.” For details about the work of Dorothy House Hospice, visit: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk
Peter’s challenge
PETER Butler, aged 76, from Wells is planning to raise £1million for charity with the help of Milly and Tilly, a restored Hillman Minx and caravan. He says he wants to give something back after being treated for bowel cancer. He explains why. Lying on my bed, tubes, a bag, and mask attached following a big bowel cancer operation it occurred to me, that as the surgeons were good enough to restore me, the least I could do (as an “old car” fanatic) would be to restore something for them! At first it was a crazy dream in a drug fuelled haze but then as I started to get better the more I thought about it and the benefits it could bring to so many by raising cancer awareness and muchneeded funds, it suddenly all made sense. I bought a dilapidated classic car and vintage caravan for total restoration, my personal challenge, which I learned would play such a big part in my recovery, had begun. After two and a half years it is now complete and the awareness begins. I am determined to convince other cancer sufferers to come up with their own different projects so like me (after cancer) so they can see a clear road ahead not a brick wall. Together I want to raise £1m and change the way people perceive this terrible disease. Not as end of life but beginning a new one. Details: millyandtilly.co.uk
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Gardens open for hospice
SOME of the most beautiful and creative gardens in Somerset will be opened to the public in aid of Weston Hospicecare this summer. The charity’s Open Gardens initiative is now in its third year and looking to top the £10,000 total it raised in 2018. These are the confirmed dates so far: June 2nd, 11am-4pm – Yeo Meads, High Street, Congresbury, Bristol, BS40 5JA June 9th, 2-4.30pm – 178 Burnham Road, Highbridge, TA9 3EH June 9th, 1.30-4.30pm – 14 Eskdale Close, Weston-super-Mare, BS22 8GA June 29th, 2.30-5pm – Old Rectory Garden Party, The Old Rectory, opposite The Golden Lion, Broad Street, Wrington, BS40 5LD June 30th, 2-5pm – 6 Brightstowe Road, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 2HW July 7th, 2-4pm – 9 Ash Grove, Uphill, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 4SH July 21st, 2-5pm – 43 Golf Links Road, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 2PP August and September – Saturday and Sunday mornings – Ferntree House, 30 Diamond Batch, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 7NB If you are interested in hosting an Open Gardens event for Weston Hospicecare email sue.harding@westonhospicecare.org.uk for more information. Details: www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/opengardens2019/
Runners support good causes
THE popular Chew Valley 10k and 1k Fun Run will raise money for A Life for a Cure, as well as Blood Bikes NICU Support, Bishop Sutton Primary School and the Chew Valley School Society. The charity was set up by the mother of Ryan Bresnahan who died very suddenly of Meningitis B, aged just 16 in March 2010 and who was previously a fit, healthy, caring young man. Freely offered by the NHS to babies and young children, the MenB vaccine is not currently available free to teenagers or young adults, the second most “at risk” group for the life-threatening infection. The charity hopes that building awareness of the disease will increase vaccinations and reduce infection rates in this age group. The events are on Sunday June 9th, with around 1,000 runners expected. Details: www.chewvalley10k.co.uk Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @chewvalley10
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Therapeutic power of horses
They wore it well
Discovery course leader Mitch, teaching the students how to lead the horses correctly
The models at the event in the Somer Centre
STUDENTS with special educational needs are being given a second chance at a meaningful education through HorseWorld Trust’s Discovery programme. For the first time, the charity is able to see the remarkable effects Discovery is having on young people’s lives in a newly-published impact report. The report showed that 81% of individuals who referred students to Discovery felt it had a positive impact on the student’s lives beyond the course. And an amazing 100% reported an increase in communication skills during the course. A true testament to the value of Discovery is Josh, an exDiscovery student who is now employed by the HorseWorld Trust in Whitchurch. He attended Discovery after being excluded from mainstream education and since his course has become the first student from his referral unit to go onto further education before being offered a job at the charity. The report shows the way that Discovery is helping young people in Bristol and the surrounding areas, providing students with essential life-skills and aspirations to help them lead purposeful lives.
CHARITIES
A FASHION show organised by Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel will benefit two local charities – Move the Mind and Radicals – after the evening raised more than £1,000. The club worked with Travelling Trends who brought racks of clothing from high street fashion stores for volunteers to model. Angela Sage, Erica Palfreyman, Phoebe Tesoriere and Amber Hodges joined Inner Wheel members Beryl Appleyard and Jacky Emm as models and in thanking them president Sue Hopkins also praised club members, who had set up the event.
Just the ticket
Details: www.horseworld.org.uk/discovery-courses/ or call 01275 832425
Red Cross celebrates
LANGPORT & District Red Cross Group is celebrating 40 years since their Langport Centre building was opened. The centre, in the main car park, opens every morning except Sunday from 10am offering friendship, refreshments and the sale of donated goods. Volunteers, past and present, will be celebrating with an evening carvery at The Langport Arms at 7pm on Friday June 21st, followed by a trip down memory lane at the centre from 8pm. Volunteers past and present, plus any regular customers, are warmly invited to join in the celebration. Details: Chris 01458 273085
CHELWOOD Bridge Rotary Club president, Douglas Nash, has thanked the 29 businesses who took part in this year’s Easter Egg Raffle, which raised more than £2,500 for local charities. Jo Drury, from the Rising Sun in Pensford, is pictured drawing the winning number there.
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MENDIP TIMES
Go on – try something different! READERS will know that our society president is none other than Mendip Times correspondent Les Davies, aka West Countryman. As Les reminded us last month, the great British summer is just around the corner; the wildlife and all growing things have been confused by the stop and start weather patterns that look set to promise us our favourite season but then fail to do so. One step forward and another back! Those who know Les will realise that he is a very “hands-on” president for which we are very grateful and he just can’t help getting stuck in to whatever is going on in the countryside around him. But we do agree with you Les – that socalled “wasting time” gladdening and uplifting the spirit is very much not a waste of time. Now, more people than ever are beginning to realise this and by the time you read this our summer will have arrived. So, once here, what do you intend to do with it? Our media continually feed us slanted information that the National Health is on a downward spiral and that diabetes, heart problems and strokes are all signs that we are a sedentary lot and costing our overstretched NHS beyond its means. Furthermore, it seems that it’s not just our suffering bodies that are at risk, but that a growing number of us are in the grip of depression and a host of other mental health issues that make life miserable and unbearable. Here in Mendip we seem so lucky to be
Making and drawing
THE MENDIP SOCIETY Westbury Quarry Open Day
a notch above the rest of the UK; and as we read through last month’s Mendip Times we get a glowing feeling seeing that the answer to a great many of our medical ills can be tackled through a whole host of different activities on offer. Here is a list of the purely physical to be found in just one issue – rowing, swimming, cycling, boxing, gymnastics, football, tennis, rugby, horse riding, sailing, running, caving, dancing, and walking (with the society, of course). And it’s hard to miss the many events that are being held by organisations like the Mendip Hills AONB, the Rotary, Lions, and National Trust and others. Add to this all the conservation groups and charities which welcome volunteers to join in their work. We are all our own worst critics and in the present furious pace of life which is now so often disconnecting us from the outside natural world around us, we sometimes need to be helped to be aware of our own self-needs for both our physical and mental health wellbeing. Many times there is the opportunity to try something completely new, a process which almost always leads to helpful conversations with new people as you all grapple with the learning process. One such “new experience” was had by our fledgling charcoal makers in our reserve Tania’s Wood in April using a home-made kiln. The good “drawing” charcoal sticks which emerged were then used by everyone to capture a small piece of the wood or the larger view, whichever appealed.
Our president was one such to try a new skill; our picture shows him concentrating on the detail. True to form, Les started constructing his own home-made kiln that very evening to use the spare wood in his own Fox Wood. The society is holding an open day in Westbury Quarry on Saturday, June 15th when all are invited to explore the rocks, ponds and fields of this abandoned mining area, enjoy the peace and the wildlife havens and maybe even try something new as well. A volunteer dry stone walling group will be working on the top of the quarry to demonstrate this countryside skill and will be happy to guide you as you “have a go yourself”. Entry is free; see our website for all details. So, if you want to feel better, be healthier, and enjoy yourself in the process, just take your pick and you will not need a prescription to do it! A great many opportunities are now offered without charge – so get out there and enjoy our best-loved time of year with any of the activities or events mentioned above.
For details of all events visit www.themendipsociety.org.uk and Facebook ‘The Mendip Society’
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WILDLIFE
Gorse management can be a thorny problem for this warbler
THE Dartford warbler is a bird that has been rare for as long as I can remember. In the UK it is on the northerly fringes of its range, mainly occupying areas in the south of England, especially around places like the New Forest and Purbeck. However, historically there have been By CHRIS small populations on Mendip in the areas SPERRING MBE which are most conducive with its favoured heathland habitat like Black Down and Crook Peak. Its general distribution throughout Europe seems never to be described as common, indeed its international status is currently “Near Threatened”. The name was given to this distinctive member of the warbler family by a naturalist called Thomas Pennant in 1773 who first described them on Bexley Heath near Dartford in Kent. It is around 13cm in length and has dark grey upper parts with a striking red throat with white spots. On close inspection the characteristic red eyes can be seen. Females and juveniles are similar in appearance to the males but noticeably duller by comparison. This is a proud warbler, often giving people close views as it sits on top of gorse delivering its song. The nesting season usually begins by mid-April in Southern England. Males construct several nests, sometimes assisted by the female, low to the ground in gorse or heather, and each female will choose her favourite in which to lay her three-five eggs. She will incubate them for around two weeks, and once hatched the young are raised on an insect diet. Young warblers leave the nest at around 12-days-old and are fed by the parents for around another two weeks before leaving. Dartford Warblers are known to have more than one brood per A proud warbler
Dartford Warblers – they can be found on Mendip at places such as Black Down and Crook Peak
year, and even three broods are not unusual. This begs the question of why this species is just so rare across its range? As birds which feed almost exclusively on insects, they are susceptible to extreme weather events, particularly prolonged cold spells. The two “Beasts from the East” cold snaps of 2018 would have played havoc with a bird like this, which is known for being at the extreme edge of its range; however it appears this bird is also on decline in countries like Spain and southern France, which starts to make estimated UK population of around 3,000 breeding pairs looks a lot more important internationally. Obviously, extreme weather events will always happen and if a population is high enough it will sustain enough numbers to recover as conditions improve, but that can only happen if the habitat it needs is in place and there is enough of it. After spending just a few hours with Dartford Warblers in their preferred habitat it becomes clear to me that gorse seems to be pretty important to them. The thorny gorse offers protection for nests and harbours a plentiful supply of insect food. Quite often when we manage our open areas the first thing to go will be the scrub to make way for open landscapes for views, food production or wild flowers, but although gorse needs managing it is about balancing the need for this special habitat and the degree of human intervention. l Thank you for all of the correspondence following last month’s article about community wildlife action, I will get back to everyone as fast as I can, but in the meantime I will be speaking about this subject in Bleadon on Sunday, June 9th and Portishead on Wednesday, June 26th.
Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him via chris.sperring@btinternet.com
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MENDIP TIMES
A wander around Timsbury and Priston
THIS tranquil circle with good pastoral views uncovers some of the beauty and history near Timsbury as we explore the quiet Priston Brook valley which leads to the fascinating old village of Priston and then follows the top of the valley back. It is an easy walk with no significant hills. There are a few stiles, but the ramble should be suitable for dogs. There is a very friendly and highly praised cafe at
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the start in Timsbury as well as a pub and another pub in Priston (check opening times) half way round, so you are spoilt for choice. PARK: Somewhere safe and suitable in Timsbury village within easy walking distance of the Connies Cafe which is in the Square.
START: In Timsbury village which lies to the north of Radstock. Find somewhere safe and suitable near the centre and then find your way to the well-signed The Connies Cafe in the Square where our walk starts. With your back to the Connies, turn right past the fish and chip shop, along Newmans Lane passing the village’s British Legion HQ and reaching a T-junction.
1. FOOTPATH Go right, cross and go left down Lippiatt Lane by the Congregational Church. After a couple of minutes turn off right on the first public footpath through a kissing gate. You’re looking across to One Tree Hill (there are actually two trees!). Cross the field and at the hedge corner turn right with fence on right. There’s another kissing gate and then follow the well-worn path and come out to Crocombe Lane and a residential development and keep straight on past the houses. At the bend go straight on into the field and then take the footpath on the
left across a stile. Head diagonally downhill across the field. After a kissing gate, continue down into the valley. Come out onto Parkway Lane. Go left and immediately right through a Bristol Gate.
2. VALLEY Continue on this very pleasant stretch along the valley bottom following the small brook. Cross a small ford ahead of you and carry on along the valley. Ignore a plank footbridge. Cross a stile ahead and go onto a track and shortly go left over the stream and then right over a stile with the brook now on the right. Carry on through fields, passing Priston Wood right and then start to climb out of the valley, but still going ahead. Before long, start to see Priston Church tower ahead. Ignore a footpath on the left and reach, on the right, a mound topped by a standing stone which marks the site of a former quarry. The horizontal stone at the side is a great picnic stop. 3. PRISTON Keep on over a stile by a gate and follow a stone track into Priston village, a beautiful old settlement. Go past the entrance to the old Rectory and come to the historic church of St Luke and St Andrew, with an impressive old horse chestnut tree and ancient yew in the churchyard. The church you see today probably replaces a very early wooden
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one, which was recorded in the Domesday Book. The nave of the present church was added in the 12th century. The 15th century tower is crowned with a large gold cockerel weather vane given as a gift by the lord of the manor in 1813. The manor of Priston was held by the Prior of Bath Abbey until the dissolution of the monasteries, passing into the hands of the laity. Then from the 18th20th century it was held by the Jenkins family. Given the beauty of the village now it is difficult to believe that it was the site of a mine on the Somerset coalfield until 1930. Across the road from the church, set back, you should be able to see a brick building on staddle stones. This is Priston’s granary or apple store. Carry straight on and on the corner reach the Ring O’ Bells pub by the village hall. Turn left soon reaching the old village fountain and a pleasant tree seat. On the left is a former red telephone box used as a shelter for a decorative potted plant. Follow the road gently uphill, past the turning on the right to Priston Mill, whose tithe barn is a popular wedding and conference venue. At the top of the hill, turn left on the first public footpath track and go over a cattle grid. 4. POPLARS Just before the line of poplars, go left through a kissing gate on the footpath across the field and into the next. Then turn right along the hedge, with Long Wood on your right, through an opening
WALKING Le
4.5 miles, about 2.75 hours walking. OS Explorer Map 142, Shepton Mallet & Mendip Hills East and Explorer 155, Bristol & Bath. Grid ref: 669 587, postcode BA2 0HY, for cafe.
in the hedge ahead and walk straight on across the next field. Go through an opening, on through a kissing gate and reach a crossing track, where you turn right and continue on into another field, bearing slightly away to the left heading for Lammas Field Farm. 5. LANE Join Parkway Lane here, going straight on. Drop down to a cottage on a bend. Leave the lane and go straight ahead up into a field with a choice of paths. Go straight on passing close to a cottage on your left and then on, soon coming
alongside the hedge line and looking across the valley to Timsbury. Reach a Bristol Gate at the end and take the track straight ahead and join Lippiatt Lane*. A few yards further on, go left through a metal kissing gate and drop diagonally down the field to the corner, through a kissing gate, over a small stream, through another gate and up the left side of the field and round the corner and up to the next corner – staying in the field. Go through a kissing gate ahead in the corner and cross the field to houses in Timsbury where you were earlier. Stay in the field and follow the hedge round and then go along a wall retracing your steps. Cross the next field to Lippiatt Lane and then it’s left all the way to the junction; right and then left up Newmans Lane to the welcoming the Connies. Also in Timsbury, on North Road, is the recently reopened popular village pub, the Seven Stars. *If you don’t want the field route, you could simply follow Lippiatt Lane all the way back to Timsbury. l Our tour around the Avalon Marshes last month should have said that dogs are not allowed in the Shapwick Heath reserve. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to readers. The Connies Tearoom, Timsbury, 01761 568451 The Seven Stars, Timsbury, 01761 471700 The Ring ’O Bells, Priston, 01761 471467
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OUTDOORS
West Countryman’s diary
IS this not just the most green and pleasant land!? As a person who doesn’t have a passport, I am not in the habit of international travel, With LES but those who are, tell DAVIES MBE me the first thing they notice upon their return from many of the other hot countries, is the lush green colour of our countryside. It is therefore, no wonder to me that the Saxon King Alfred, banished the Norse folk to the “Dane lands” of the north and east after the Treaty of Wedmore around AD 878. This land in the South West was the best and he wanted to keep it for the West Saxons . . . good old Alf I say! It’s not just the fact that everything is so green at the moment, it’s the different shades of green that can be seen within the countryside that fascinates me. Green is a very soothing colour, a calming influence in our hectic lives. Recent research is showing the value of that greener environment in connection with our wellbeing. You have heard me go on before about the value of spending time amongst trees and unwinding in the countryside. It seems to be that more and more evidence is being found to scientifically back up these theories. Exercise helps mental wellbeing and exercise within the natural environment helps even more. If you really want to make a difference, do something creative, maybe painting or drawing. Writing has long been enhanced by contact with nature. You need only look to some of the greatest poets of our time, to realise that they have taken their inspiration from what they have seen around them. Wordsworth, it is said, would proclaim his poetry to the fells of his native Lake District – shouting to the hills, gosh! Try that across the Lox Valley to Crook Peak, with the M5 motorway adding its own very special sound to the audio mix! Food is another area of creativity that seems to be enhanced by the “Al Fresco” experience. Who doesn’t like a barbecue on a warm summer’s evening, when your friends come around and an enjoyable time can be had by all? It seems to be fairly simple food that gets cooked and the men tend to take over the show in the spirit of hunter gatherer,
producing a veritable cornucopia of grilled products for consumption by a hungry audience! It can however go wrong, as some of my attempts have done in the past and the burnt product is offered up as some sort of ancient ritual. Perhaps I could ask our cookery correspondents in the Mendip Times to produce some recipes for the coming summer? Something a little different perhaps that reflects the local flavour of Mendip? The barbecue however can be a huge fire risk in times of dry weather. If you are thinking of having that special day out that includes the family cook-up please make sure you have plenty of water to hand to douse the hot charcoal. One very large blaze on a moor in the north of the country, was believed to have been started by a portable barbecue during the last spell of dry weather. It’s not just a green and pleasant land, it’s also a pink and white pleasant land, with the blossom that has been around this time. I have seen some really good blossom in the orchards this year and I hope that the summer isn’t too dry. Sunshine is what we need, but sunshine with some warm rain (occasionally). Not too much to ask surely! The hedgerows are looking good and the bluebells on Black Down are stunning. They are always a little later because of the height they are growing at. From my perspective, their late arrival is a special treat. Just as all the other bluebells start to go over, a second wave arrives on the heathland. Foxwood looks quite good this year. I had an email of congratulation and thanks for the display of bluebells in the grassland that is now making a comeback. Like it or loath it, the television programme Countryfile, is the means by which many people form their view of the rural environment. I am not talking about those who live and work in or around it, but more of the urban based population. Such programmes as this raise the levels of awareness in regards to some of the issues that our rural environment faces and that cannot be a bad thing. As a result, many people will visit their local country show. I am calling it such, as I believe the trend is changing – the old agricultural show concept has to change in order to keep up with modern demand. I must say however that I spent a
wonderful day at this year’s North Somerset Show. Dry weather and slightly cold, but this was good for the livestock. Plenty to see and plenty to eat and drink as well and still very much an agricultural show at its core. Whilst still on the show theme, the Royal Bath and West is coming up at the end of this month. As always there will be a lot to see, based on a countryside theme. I have been busy this past week with a panel of three other judges looking at schemes from Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Bristol. We wanted to see how young people are becoming involved in making a difference to the environment, especially theirs. It’s all part of the Environmental Youth Awards scheme, which you will have heard about from me before. Come and have a look, we will be below the commentator’s box on the main ring. Several of the Mendip Hills Young Rangers will be coming along on the Friday to help us with the stewarding. If you know of any local youth groups or schools who may be interested in entering next year, please come and see us, or make contact with me direct. Finally – just to show that I can be a little bit artistic! Here’s a picture of me with my charcoal drawing (thanks to Judith Tranter) done as part of a charcoal burning and art day run by the Mendip Society at their nature reserve in Tania's Wood near Ubley. I must thank local artist John Steers for his splendid tuition and encouragement and not forgetting Chris Claxton, who took us through the smokey process of charcoal making.
You can always contact me through my website: Westcountryman.co.uk
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Gardening in shade
IN mid-summer our light levels are probably at their highest accompanied by the longest days and if you are not a sun-seeker we search for shade whilst relaxing in the garden. Our eyes can adjust to lower light levels in shade, whilst many plants will struggle to survive. With MARY In a deciduous woodland the light levels PAYNE MBE can drop from 56% in early spring to 3% by mid-summer as the overhead canopy of leaves develops. Some species, notably those native to our own woodlands and the many plants introduced from woodlands in far flung countries are well adapted to cope, and it is these that we ought to be using in our shaded areas. However, we cannot treat all shade in the same way. Shade is not constant. In a garden we may have areas that are in permanent shade from buildings or evergreen trees, whilst in other areas the sun moves around, and the shaded area is only temporary for part of the day. Not only are the light levels variable but the amount of moisture available in the soil can vary too. To make a shaded area appear lighter, adjacent wall or fences can be painted a pale colour or use a mirror to bounce the light around. Try using white, blue or pale lilac coloured flowers as they show up better. Dense dry shade is the hardest to cope with, such as that created by large evergreen trees like yew, leylandii or evergreen oak. There is very little that will grow under these conditions as there is little useful light at any time of year. A walk in a coniferous forest will confirm the problem. Even spring bulbs will fail to prosper. At Compton Acres garden in Poole virtually the entire garden is covered in ancient Scots pines, a relic from the Dorset Heathland on which the garden was created. The pines, although not as dense as a forest, give poor light all year round such that even daffodils fail to flower well in the second year because of insufficient light in spring to enable to bulb to develop properly. The soil is an acidic sand which hold very little water adding to the problems. Shallow rooted trees, such as beech and birch, also lead to dry soil conditions, but at least the canopy of the trees lose their leaves in autumn allowing understorey plants to take advantage of winter and spring light before the canopy closes over. The ideal woodland in which to create a woodland garden consists of sparse deep-rooted oak trees. There are plenty of plants that have evolved to cope with shade. Indeed, most of our house plants are ground dwellers from tropical rain forests, such as the peace lily or prayer plants. The moth orchid that adorns many a windowsill these days is an epiphyte living up in the canopy of the forest, clinging onto the angles of branches with the silvery aerial roots. These plants are used to coping with reduced light levels and decent a sunny position in our houses. Hardy, shade tolerant plants have developed other methods of making the most of poor light. Often their leaves are large and flat enabling them to catch what light there is. Others have extra chlorophyll, that magic green stuff in plants that enables them to photosynthesise, so their leaves appear very dark green. Our native Butcher’s Broom has incredibly dark green leaves and is able to grow in the most obnoxious of positions. Other plants have developed the strategy of appearing early in the year, growing fast and then dying back to a dormant rootstock that survives the dry summer, like the snowdrop, bluebell and PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Ferns at Kingston Lacey
wood anemone. Finding the right plants for your shady locations is paramount. For moist deep shade ferns are ideal. Try the Japanese lace or tassel fern (Polystichum polyblepharum) or our native Hart’s tongue fern (Asplenium scolopendrium). Both are evergreen with shiny fronds that reflect the light. Hostas will also thrive in these conditions provided you can keep the snails at bay. Generally plants with evergreen foliage tolerate shade well. Establishing plants in dry shade is harder. Try digging a hole large enough for a cardboard box. Fill the box with good earth mixed with some old potting compost and plant into the box. Keep the plant watered during its establishment period and the box will eventually rot away. The box gives the plant a head start before the roots of trees try to invade its space. For the dry shade found under deciduous trees my favourite plant is the autumn flowering cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium). This accommodating little plant will flower from late July through until November and then cover the ground with patterned ivy shaped leaves for the winter, before becoming dormant by June leaving spiralled seed pods packed with sugary coated seeds that the ants will relish thus sowing more seed for you. The Hart’s tongue fern is also tolerant of dry shade. What happens if you try to make a plant grow in shade? If it is a variegated plant it may try to revert to plain green in order to have enough chlorophyll to survive. Golden foliaged plants, like Choisya ‘Sundance’ will often change to a more subdued lime green. Shrubs grown for their flowers can fail to flower well as there has been insufficient light to ripen the wood and initiate flower buds. Herbaceous plants will reach for the light and grow taller than normal and then flop over due to lack of stem strength. Sun-loving bulbs, such as tulips, will flower in their first year but fail to flower thereafter. It is therefore very important that light levels are carefully considered when choosing plants for shady sites. There are extensive lists of suitable plants online or in plant catalogues to help you chose. A shady area in your garden can be just as interesting all the year round.
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JUNE GARDEN TIPS
• Make sure that your potatoes don’t run short of moisture at this time. The new tubers should be forming now and will respond well to a thorough watering. • Plant out those annual herbs (dill, pot marigold, basil, coriander, etc) that often resent being planted too early. Basil will prefer a very sheltered spot, I grow mine in the greenhouse between my tomatoes and a few leaves can be gathered to go with the tomatoes as I pick them. • Plant outdoor tomatoes, ridge cucumbers, courgettes and marrows. These can all be easily grown in large pots or grow bags on the patio. • Most herbs will benefit from being cut fairly hard now. The young shoot tips are generally the tastiest parts to use in cooking. • There is still time to make a sowing of perpetual spinach leaf beet. This is a really useful vegetable that can be harvested right through the winter. • A late sowing of parsley can still be made and, even if you don’t have a veg. patch, curled parsley will not look out of place in the flower border! • First early potatoes should be ready for lifting now! If there are flowers showing and the leaves are starting to go yellow, that’s a sure sign that there are big enough tubers underneath to lift. Take them straight to the kitchen, boil them with a spring of fresh mint and serve with lashings of butter! • Remove (by snapping them off) side shoots from cordon (non bushy) tomatoes. Stake and support them. Feed regularly with tomato feed, it improves the flavour!
Explore gardens in the heart of Mendip
RESIDENTS in the villages of Rodney Stoke and Draycott will be opening their gardens to visitors for a fundraising weekend in July. More than ten private gardens will be showcased, ranging from Summertime in Rodney Stoke and Draycott small-walled and easy-maintenance, newly-formed gardens, to mature gardens packed with plants and larger hillside slopes with vines; many have not opened to the public before. Organisers say WI teas, lunch, cake stalls, café/bar and a plant stall dotted around the route will make for a thoroughly enjoyable day out for all over the weekend of Saturday, July 27th and Sunday, July 28th. Programmes and route maps are available in person from any open garden on the day or Draycott Post Office. Proceeds shared between Rodney Stoke and Draycott WI and The Memorial Hall, Draycott. l Programme cost covers entrance for both days: Adults £5/under-16s free with accompanying adult. Well behaved children and dogs on leads welcome.
GARDENING
Welcome to Cleeve Garden Centre • Your local, independent traditional garden centre • Expert and Friendly • Great plants grown in our own nursery • Gift Ideas
Timberwork Buildings Bespoke buildings to suit you
We specialise in the manufacture of quality standard and bespoke garden buildings to suit your individual needs including:-
WORKSHOPS/GARAGES GARDEN SHEDS SHELTERS & STABLES PLAYHOUSES Let our dedicated team assist you in your choice whatever your budget . . . Full design, installation and delivery service available – customise your shed to suit your needs
We also do: Chicken Houses Dog Kennels • Bin & Log Stores YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT US AND SEE OUR SHOW MODELS – OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
THE TIMBERYARD • SHUTE SHELVE • CROSS • NEAR AXBRIDGE Tel: 01934 732 396 • www.timberworkbuildings.co.uk e.mail: timberbuildings@aol.com
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 71
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MENDIP TIMES
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NURSERY
Successful sale
MASBURY, NR. WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 3HA TEL: 01749 841014 FAX: 01749 841055 www.rockymountainnurseries.co.uk COME & SEE OUR FINE RANGE OF FRUIT TREES, SHRUBS, GERANIUMS & FUCHSIAS
Visit our MASBURY’S CAFE
Serving breakfast, lunch & afternoon tea Delicious homemade meals. Sunday Roasts, Outside catering, buffet lunches delivered, themed cuisine events. Telephone 01749 841155 for further details.
BROWSE AROUND JAMES STORE SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS WWW.ROCKYMOUNTAINNURSERIES.CO.UK
ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES –
Pictured (l to r) Norma Sanders, Sue Curley, Pauline Harrison and Josie Osborne
COMPTON Martin gardening club raised just over £550 with a plant sale, which will help keep members’ fees affordable. Club chairman, Sally Yells, said: “We would love others to join us and meet monthly. We enjoy a different speaker at each meeting and also hold table sales at each meeting.” Details: Chris Billinghurst 01761 221579.
Looking for that dream outdoor space?
Porcelain
from £33m2 inc. VAT
Riven Sandstone from £19.20m2
en look no further see the full range at our showroom. Want to install yourself? We can offer supply, guidance and practical tips. Installation teams also available, offering a full install service. Supplying – as well as installing – landscaping products to both the commercial and domestic trade. Wider range and cheaper prices than builders’ merchants or garden centres.
inc. VAT
2B Valley Line Industrial Park, Wedmore Road, Cheddar, BS27 3EE or call us on 01934 740163 Showroom open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri 8am-12noon Sat
Smooth Sandstone from £24m2 inc. VAT PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Follow us on . . .
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NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH
Frome Gardens
GARDENING
Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists
WHATEVER POWER YOU NEED: Battery/Cordless
9 Catherston Close
FROME Gardens is a group opening shared between three gardens: 9, Catherston Close: What a surprise around the corner in waiting at this small town garden. Behind a colourful town house frontage lies a gem of a hidden garden that was extended to 1/3 acre some 15 years ago. Its owners Dave and Prue Moon have transformed the open farmland into a tranquil haven, which comes with a large diversity of wildlife. 3, Lynfield Road: The owners inherited a garden that was an overgrown 1970s conifer and rock garden. Cranes, lorries and skips were needed to move approx 100 tons of rock and waste. The now rejuvenated front garden is unusual because they grow fruit and vegetables in addition to offering mixed borders, while a smaller walled Mediterranean themed back garden is approaching its fourth season. 84, Weymouth Road: A garden designed and planted by Simon Relph and is open to celebrate his life. Architectural design of metal arches and geometrical raised beds surround a raised pond. Much sculpture by their son Alex Relph and other artists feature. Carefully chosen shrubs surround the walled garden. Fern area, roses and camellias enhance the central courtyard. Raised vegetable beds, greenhouse and soft fruits NGS opening details: Sunday, June 23rd 12-5pm. Shorter opening times at 84, Weymouth Road 1pm-4pm. 9, Catherston Close is also open June 16th and 20th and July 3rd, 12-5pm. Admission: Combined entry £6, children free. Contact Information: Mr Dave Moon, BA11 4HR. Other Gardens Open for the NGS To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, available from local garden centres, or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk
Electric
Petrol
Wide selection available in store Behind Shell Garage Winterstoke Road, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS23 2YS
Tel: 01934 626093/813261
GALHAMPTON www.westongarden.co.uk
Country Store
A FAMILY-RUN SHOP & STORE ON THE A359 BETWEEN CASTLE CARY & SPARKFORD
extensive range of pet food
Horse feeds & supplies
TOOLS, CLOTHING, GIFTS, FOOD-TO-GO, PET, POULTRY, LIVESTOCK FEEDS & MORE
agricultural merchants
Home essentials & hardware
Open seven days a week: Mon-sat 8am-5.30pm/sun 10am-4pm
Fir Tree Business park, High Road, Galhampton, yeovil, somerset, Ba22 7BH • Tel: 01963 440464 email: sales@galhamptoncountrystore.co.uk
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 73
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Compton Dando gardens
COMPTON Dando will hold an open gardens event on Sunday, June 16th, 2-6pm, featuring larger more formal designs, a flower farm, and small courtyard gardens. Further attractions on the day include teas for sale in the church, where there will also be an art display, a display of classic cars (weather permitting and stalls in the parish hall.
Plant sale continues to grow
Details: www.compton-dando.org or phone Sarah Wilson on 07836 201611
Committee members (l:r) Mark Jones, Pat Felstead, Alison Jones and Erica Holt on the association’s stand
CASTLE Cary Gardening Association’s annual fundraising plant sale attracted yet another big crowd wanting to buy some familiar – and less well-known – varieties of flowers and vegetables. The event – at the Market House – is the association’s main source of income towards financing its annual show in August. For the second year running, members of the town branch of the charity Tools for Self Reliance held a stall outside. The charity refurbishes unwanted tools and other machinery to be sent to communities in Africa. They are urgently seeking hand-powered sewing machines. Implements which are Neal Hatch was selling Oca, a unsuitable to be sent out are South American potato-like tuber sold to raise funds. with a lemony taste and leaves l This year’s annual show which can also be eaten takes place on Saturday, August 3rd at Caryford Community Hall from 2pm. Classes are open to members and non-members.
Your local Honda dealer, covering Frome (Shepton Mallet, Bruton and Wells) – Call: 01373 832965 or visit: www.mendipmowers.co.uk PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Some of the team from Tools for Self Reliance
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New coffee shop
GARDENING
AFTER celebrating their 30th anniversary last year, Middlecombe Nursery in Congresbury continue to evolve their family-owned business, having transformed part of their greenhouse in to a new coffee shop that they’ve cheerfully named, CUPPA. Designed to complement the natural environment that surrounds the nursery, CUPPA has been crafted with natural and industrial materials, and decorated with a variety of plants to make the space feel like an indoor escape. If the weather is fine, your visit can be enjoyed in the outdoor seating area that overlooks the garden. With a mindful approach to their offering, CUPPA serves a selection of locally and ethically sourced products including Bristol Twenty Tea and Coffee, Karma Kola sodas and Chew Moo’s ice cream, alongside a selection of freshly made sarnies, cakes and pastries. Middlecombe is situated in Congresbury, just off the A370 between Bristol and Weston-super-Mare. It’s home to a wonderful selection of hardy plants many grown onsite, alongside British and European stock. Open to the public, all year round. Check the website for seasonal opening hours: www.middlecombenursery.co.uk
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MENDIP TIMES
NORTON GREEN GARDEN CENTRE
Ready to bloom
GARDENING
SUPERB CHOICE OF SUMMER FLOWERING HANGING BASKET, PATIO & BEDDING PLANTS READY NOW! QUALITY VEGETABLE PLANTS including Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Courgettes, Sweet & Chilli Peppers, Broad Beans, Leeks, Cabbages, Brussel Sprouts, Lettuces and many more!
SUPERB CHOICE OF TERRACOTTA, GLAZED & FIBRE-CLAY POTS & TROUGHS •ALL SHAPES & SIZES •COMPETITIVE PRICES •GUARANTEED FROST-PROOF
WELLS ROAD, CHILCOMPTON BA3 4RR Telephone: 01761 232137 www.nortongreencentre.co.uk Open: Mon to Sat 9.00am to 4.30pm including Bank Holidays Sunday 10.30am to 4.30pm
Mendip Rural Services Ltd. Now fully open at: Springfield, Haydon Drove, Haydon nr Wells BA5 3EH Offering all our usual lawnmower and garden machinery services and suppliers • Camping & paddock maintenance & fencing • Chain harrowing & rolling • Logs & kindling • Digger & tractor hire with driver
Phone 07974 259766 Workshop 07491 665290 www.mendipruralservices.co.uk email: mendipruralservices@outlook.com PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Pictured (l to r) Beccy Angell, Jenny Cleeve, Alison Woolley, Doris Gentle, Lins Herbert, Sue Moysey, Sandra Blair and Lin Paul, with Anne Thomason seated
TEMPLE Cloud in Bloom held a plant sale to raise funds for planters as it prepares for this year’s South West in Bloom competition. Cameley primary school PTA had a crafts stall and games for children and their families, giving a share of their profits to Temple Cloud in Bloom.
Aaron’s right at home with Mendip Rural Services
UNDER one roof is how Aaron Coleman likes to refer to the new location of Mendip Rural Services. Now based next door to his home at Haydon Drove, on the Bath Road out Part of the new showroom at Mendip Rural of Wells, Aaron Services says he has more time to concentrate on the many aspects of the business ranging from garden machinery sales and repairs to paddock and campsite maintenance and even supplying logs. Aaron spent a couple of happy years at Rookery Farm at nearby Binegar but says the move has also given him more space: “I have the same range of stock, but it can be displayed better, I have more workshop space and can hopefully expand when the time is right. “It also means that if I am cutting logs outside and a customer calls in, I am right on site and not driving backwards and forwards.” Aaron is facing a busy summer cutting grass for some glamping and camping sites and says the current enthusiasm for fire pits and the like is keeping the log side of the business busy.
Reader's Opinion DPS.qxp_Layout 1 23/05/2019 15:27 Page 1
Dear Mendip Times, Do you remember that poem by W.H. Davies that begins: “What is this life, if full of care, we have no time to stand and stare”… hopefully he’d forgive our linguistic updating to this version: “We have no time to stand and care.” Now that change deserves an explanation and deserves our notice for a minute or two. Davies was a Welshman who spent much of his life treading lightly on this planet; you know him as a poet but he was also a tramp. His poetry sprang from his observations about the way human nature, the human condition, was reflected in nature. He effectively polarised the uncomfortable truth about man and planet much like David Attenborough in our own age draws us to consider our 21st century just as critically. In fact, Attenborough urges more of us to mark one day in the year as a day of contemplation and action – Earth Day. Did you mark EARTH DAY on April 22nd? This global network will celebrate its 50th birthday on April 22nd, 2020. Perhaps you already consider every day to be Earth Day but if not, you could decide right now to mark it from now on simply because it represents, globally, a date to stop, to care for at least one day in our busy lives about protecting and cleaning up our one and only Earth. This gorgeously beautiful planet is bearing the brunt of our human presence more heavily than at any time in history. Our ancestors trod lightly, leaving little sign of their lives, not even daring to break the surface of the soil until the dawn of agriculture. But look at us now and what do we see? Our lives are reflected back to us by modern media feeding on modern mantras…sustainability, renewables, climate change and we have more than an inkling of what they mean but for Earth Day’s sake let’s find out why they matter. There are two clear ways in which we experience our environment – by natural forcings and by human forcings. We cannot do much about the former other than waving a placard of protest to the sun or shaking our fist at earthquakes and volcanic eruptions but blessedly, we can definitely do something about the latter. Take sustainability, it not only matters that we do something to clean up our environment but it’s equally important to NOT carry on doing something bad, very bad. Let’s explain that one. Mankind is a dirty species. End of story. Science provides the awful facts, our moral compass socks home the awful truth, dominant in the West for the past 350 anthropocentrically exploitative years. We toxify our precious biosphere which represents the sum total of what we need to live in, and on; it provides useful things we Dear Mendip Times, Jackie Petherbridge’s recent description of her experience as a volunteer litter-picker strongly echoed mine. As a fellow collector in another semi-rural area, I’ve also found that junk from cars (some too disgusting to relate) and smokers’ debris are a major source of the garbage I pick up. Indeed, one’s faith in the basic human decency of supposedly civilised fellow citizens is sometimes sorely challenged. But domestic waste also constitutes a great deal of my trawl. That’s because folks invariably overload their small green bins without much apparent thought. Very often, the boxes are filled to overflowing. And yet they’re packed with things like large plastic milk cartons and other similar containers that have been dumped
READER’S OPINION
humans love such as clean air, water, plentiful natural resources. Just to be crystal clear, that “We” is me, you, us, pretty much everyone in fact. We toxify our metaphorical back yards in our huge global village and have become accustomed to somebody else handling the fall-out problems of human carelessness – like plastic. “Someone” will get rid of the excess of plastic choking and clogging the bodies of sea birds, strangling turtles, drowning seals – but who is that “someone”? We may care but we don’t yet take responsibility, or enough responsibility, for what lies beyond our ken. Out of sight is out of mind but we really could re-focus, re-aim and re-calibrate our human future for our own comfort and therefore for the future comfort of our species . . . all species. In this part of the world we’re pretty lucky when measured against the sum total of humanity but even in our wider Mendip area where we enjoy clear-running rivers, open farmland, space and fresh air we have pollution in a myriad forms. No we’re not advocating ditching cars just yet although the resurrection of a rural bus service is a move in the right direction – it’s more the small things that each of us can do to preserve what we have and clean up as we go and think longer term. Do you really need to fly anywhere knowing that you are adding to the problems? If you’re a two-car family could you live with one car – one of Green Henton’s committee members did just that last month – or switch to an electric car. What about using fewer natural resources? Well we’re human and we’re fallible and good intentions may only last a day so we could begin with tiny, achievable goals and see where that takes us.…please send your thoughts and ideas to us at Green Henton Community Benefit Society https://greenhenton.wordpress.com And so back to where we started with W H Davies and the final poignant line of his poem: “A poor life this if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare.” Lee Hooker (Director) on behalf of Green Henton, Wells Lee Hooker’s family recently moved from the Isle of Skye where she studied Gaelic language and took an active interest in the community and island renewable energy initiatives which led to her role as one of the directors of the Green Henton energy scheme.
without any flattening, thus occupying much of the space. How hard can it be not to thoroughly crush your junk before binning it? Consequently, the rest of the smaller weekly debris is piled on top and invariably spills out. Folks complain that the hardworking refuse teams are responsible for picking up the inevitable overflow but I disagree. If householders themselves were just a little more thoughtful and sensible how they organise their junk for collection, a great deal less would end up blowing about on our streets and lanes. And, regardless of the source, if everyone just binned the overspill on their doorsteps, all our environments would benefit. Just a thought, Ian Pitch, Winscombe
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 77
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Fabulous at 40
MELLS Daffodil Festival celebrated its 40th anniversary in style with thousands of visitors descending on the village for a day of events. The event was founded by Joyce Barber who had been inspired by visiting a daffodil festival elsewhere in the country. Festival committee chair Daisy Steel said: "We had a recordbreaking year for our 40th Mells Daffodil Festival. We took more money on the ticket gates than any year previously. We were also extremely lucky that it was one of the hottest Easter weekends on record – at last a beautiful day for our village festival which brought out the crowds and meant we weren’t having to pull cars out of muddy fields with tractors for a change! “All the money raised from the event will go back into supporting community groups in the village like the nursery, the school, the shop and the church. We are also hoping to use some of the funds to help improve the children’s play equipment in the village recreation ground. “Mells Daffodil Festival is managed entirely by volunteers who give up their time for free to put it on. It was great to see the whole village pulling together for something like this – and wonderful that the people who visited on Easter Monday all seemed to have a fantastic time – we have had some very nice feedback from both traders and visitors."
Max, aged three, enjoys a treat
Classic punk rock semi-acoustic style from the Raggedy Men
Criers and their consorts after the annual crying competition by the war memorial
Linda McLeod with Harriet, her 1966 Triumph Herald
Sarah Ilott, from Frome, took first prize in the 1970s themed fancy dress competition … but she was the only one who entered PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Ceramicist Ella Phillips, from Cheddar, was amongst the 120 traders in Selwood Street
Most of the daffodils had gone, but there were plenty of dandelions to enjoy
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Viv and Stuart Cummings, from Chard, celebrate being named best consort and best town crier
Roctopus, an interactive music experience aimed at children, were enjoyed by grown-ups also
MELLS DAFFODIL FESTIVAL 2019
TV weatherman Alex Beresford opened the festival; he’s pictured with Zinnia, aged three, winner of the Easter bonnet competition
Bathampton Morris entertained the crowds
A view from the church tower of the stalls in New Street Angling expert, author and TV presenter Jeremy Wade with daffodil king and queen Wyn Dulacher and Imogen Bagan
Roseanne, Benedict and Lolita find a quiet spot to relax away from the hustle of the festival
Celebrating 40 years of daffodil festivals MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 79
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Chew Magna Duck Race
Winscombe May Fair
EVENTS
Dancers from Winscombe School The ducks needed some encouragement
Lauren and Emma Griffiths
Dr Phil Hammond gave his support
Cousins Poppy Ladd (left) and Annabel Isgrove
Admiring the ducks
PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Winscombe WI members
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PROPERTY
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 81
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MENDIP TIMES
PROPERTY
Historic old vicarage comes to market SET in the heart of Chewton Mendip, The Old Vicarage is an extremely attractive Grade II listed village house that has been launched onto the market through Killens. Built in the 1820s by the Kingsmill family, the house was occupied as a vicarage until 1859. It was then occupied as a private house until 1946 when it was sold to Thomas Strachey of Stowey Court, who then sold it to the church in 1954. It remained as the vicarage until 1994 when it was sold by the church for a second time and became a private house. On entering, you are immediately struck by the property’s charm and character. The current owners have sympathetically restored the house to a high standard whilst retaining many character features.
Beautifully presented, the main house offers five double bedrooms with a separate and charming converted Coach House. Enclosed by attractive stone walls, the property is surrounded by gardens and offers great privacy. Chewton Mendip is a great place to live boasting a good range of facilities including an excellent primary school and pre-school, the popular Waldegrave Arms and the fantastic Moondance café, deli and gift shop, all of which are nearby. The village is also on the route of the Mendip Explorer bus route and there is school transport to the Blue School in Wells. So, if you are seeking a substantial yet comfortable family house, The Old Vicarage is certainly worth a peek. Offers in excess of £1 million are sought.
Contact the Wells office of Killens to arrange an appointment on 01749 671172
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MENDIP TIMES
New group’s historic find
A STANDING stone on Church Hill, Writhlington has been registered by South West Heritage Trust thanks to the efforts of villagers. It’s known locally as the Monmouth Stone as local legend has it that The Duke of Monmouth sat on the stone on his way to Norton St Philip during the Monmouth Rebellion of 1685. It was not listed until members of Writhlington Action Group approached South West Heritage. The trust, part of Taunton Museum, is responsible for keeping records of local monuments
Writhlington litter pickers
Car show’s 25th event
GLORIOUS sunshine added to the celebrations to mark the 25th staging of the annual Mendip Vintage and Classic Tour. The event is open to 160 pre-1989 vehicles and this year began in Whitchurch before arriving on Wells Cathedral Green where thousands of visitors admired the display which was raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Leading the way – Car No 1 was a French-built Grégoire
HISTORY
and archaeological finds in the South West of England. Both villagers and the trust have expressed delight at the exciting find. Although the Monmouth Stone has yet to be dated, standing stones can be up to 4000 years old. Its size and the position of the stone on a bank adjacent to trackways has been sufficient evidence to create a monument record. Writhlington Action Group was set up to fight plans to build 160 homes on the field adjacent to the stone. The application has recently been rejected. The registration of the stone adds to the picture of an area rich in heritage which is already known to contain Middle Iron Age finds, revealed during a recent housing development, Roman remains and industrial archaeology from the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the heart-warming outcomes from the establishment of the group has been that villagers have been brought together and many have expressed a wish to build on this community spirit. On Sunday, April 27th residents got together to clear litter from the park and surrounding roads. Some 20 bags of rubbish were collected by 19 villagers, three of whom were children. On Wednesday, May 15th an informal meeting was held in the village hall to discuss local employment opportunities, housing, infrastructure, public transport and the possible establishment of local history and wildlife groups. Discussion, fuelled by a very good selection of home-made cakes, was animated with a lot of interest in the development of the village. The next meeting of the Writhlington Action Group will take place on June 2nd at 10am in the village hall.
Memories of village life
WHITCHURCH Local History Society has just published a new book Whitchurch Village Memories – A Third Collection. This is a 56-page A4-size book on quality paper and is the third volume of memories of Whitchurch life contributed by current or recent residents. These are fascinating personal narratives of 20th century village life supplemented with colour and black and white illustrations. The book sells at £5.
Details: Secretary, Geoff Gardiner 01275 830869 or at geoff@thegardiners.org.uk
Wise owl
NEWS
Historic building on the market
The Old Deanery – on the market for around £2.5m
ROLO, a European Eagle Owl, has adopted three tawny owl chicks at Avon Owls in Banwell, which takes in birds of prey who are in need of a home. She has become extremely protective of the babies and the sanctuary says it looks forward to giving the new owls the best possible life. It says most of the time baby owls will be foraging and exploring when they are on the ground, so the public should not pick them up on first sight. If the baby is still there in an hour’s time, it might need help. Details: 01934 823883 facebook.com/Avonowls or at www.avonowls.org.uk
Community orchard vandalised
A RECENTLY-planted community orchard in Radstock has been vandalised, threatening the town’s hopes of success in this year’s Britain in Bloom competition. In total, 15 trees in the Church Street Recreation Ground were damaged, of which nine were completely lost. The community project had been backed by the Big Local Radstock & Westfield lottery fund and was going to be an ongoing project with plans for improvements and accessibility already in the pipeline. It was due to be part of the town’s RHS: It’s Your Neighbourhood entry.
THE Old Deanery, an historic Grade I listed office building overlooking Wells Cathedral Green, has been put up for sale with a £2.5m guide price. Originally built as the home of those occupying the office of the Dean of Wells, the earliest fabric of the existing building dates from around the 12th century. In recent years, the Old Deanery has been used as offices for the Diocese of Bath and Wells, accommodating more than 50 staff. The best preserved and most obviously medieval part of the building dates back to the late 15th century. The property is also known for its ancient grounds which includes the William Turner Garden – a hidden Tudor-style garden dating back to the 16th century. The Old Deanery has been brought to the market by Lodestone Property, assisted by Carter Jonas, on behalf of the diocese. It has the potential for redevelopment with a variety of alternative options including residential, commercial, care and hotel/leisure, subject to planning and the necessary consents. Cathy Morris-Adams, managing partner at Lodestone Property said: “This is a unique opportunity to breathe new energy into an under-utilised building whilst continuing to celebrate its architecture, elegance, durability and status within the city of Wells. “We expect to see strong demand from operators and developers looking to invest a piece of history whilst creating a viable solution to ensure its preservation and future success.”
The area had been part of the town’s Britain in Bloom plans
Nine of the trees were destroyed completely
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 85
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Wells supports learning through adventure PUPILS at Wells Cathedral School benefit from a diverse and exciting programme of outdoor education activities, which allows them access to countless courses, adventure camps and qualifications to provide further experience above and beyond the classroom. They have found that learning through adventure, preferably in the outdoors, is one of the most effective ways to develop essential character traits such as resilience, resourcefulness and self-confidence. Each year hundreds of Wells pupils take part in the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which combines physical activity, honing a skill, demonstrating community involvement and completing outdoor expeditions in challenging terrain, to complete Bronze, Silver or Gold levels. Wells has a vibrant and active Combined Cadet Force for senior pupils, led by Director of Outdoor Learning, and former Royal Marine, Stuart Elks. The Wells CCF has four sections: the Army, the Royal Marines Band, the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force; and cadets enjoy an enormous range of activities. Naval cadets regularly sail on the local Axbridge Reservoir; whilst RAF cadets take to the skies in training aircraft with senior RAF pilots at Boscombe Down. Senior cadets have the opportunity for leadership experience, including the completion
of Cadet Centre Adventure Courses across a range of activities, such as canoeing, orienteering and caving. Furthermore, there are multiple opportunities for adventurebased trips home and abroad, including trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, climbing in the Atlas Mountains and camping in the wilds of the Snowdonia National Park. Wells has recently augmented its offering of the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA) for children of services families, offering an extremely competitive package for those who qualify.
For further details on this or for further information about Wells Cathedral School, contact the admissions team on 01749 834441 or at admissions@wells.cathedral.school
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Millfield introduces improved minibus service MILLFIELD is an inspirational school where pupils are celebrated for who they are and encouraged to reach their personal best. With an Olympic-sized swimming pool, golf course and equestrian centre; a concert hall, theatre, art gallery and music centre, all supported by expert teaching, the school helps empower pupils to follow their passions. So that their day pupils can easily travel to and from their Senior and Prep Schools, Millfield’s newly-improved minibus service runs across seven routes. Locations currently include Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Wells, Castle Cary and Bath, but are flexible to cater for their pupils’ needs. The service is for children aged five upwards and has a Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday return service (and Wednesday and Saturday mornings) during term time. With convenient and safe pick-up points, flexible day choices and drivers employed by Millfield, the
service offers excellent value for money. Day pupils are fully integrated into the school community and enjoy all the opportunities Millfield offers. The day begins at 8.30am and finishes after lessons, games or activities. Pupils are welcome to stay for supper and the
EDUCATION
library is open until 8.45pm. There are five day houses; two girls' houses, two boys' houses and a coeducational Year 9 house. Each has a housemaster or housemistress and other staff, who work together to provide a strong support structure.
Details: contact the Transport Office on 01458 444351 or visit millfieldschool.com/minibus
MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 87
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EVENTS
Fantasy and fact at medieval fayre
GLASTONBURY Abbey welcomed the return of the hugely-popular Medieval Fayre which attracted thousands of visitors to the historic grounds. Everything from jousting displays to have-a-go activities was on offer with reenactment groups mingling with some colourful interpretations of life in medieval times. Redford, Emma, Tabitha and Jay, members of the Plymouth Time Travellers Guild
Glastonbury Tor provided a stunning backdrop to the main ring events
Paul and Hannah Colman
One of the jousting contests
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Edward and Elizabeth Dispenser, from circa 1350, with Stuart the Irish Wolfhound
Rob Sim, a multi-skilled street performer, welcomes visitors to the fayre
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CAVING
The Welsh connnection
IRON mining on the Mendips was a small part of mineral extraction here, but elsewhere it was the only metal being sought. Further to the west in Somerset, just over 160 years ago, the Brendon Hills became the location for large-scale mining for iron ore. Very little evidence is now to be seen, With PHILIP although the curious can still find some HENDY remains of what was once a thriving industry. The best remnant is the winding house and incline at Raleigh’s Cross, which was used to take the ore more than six miles downhill to the port of Watchet. It is suspected that the Romans may have mined iron on the hills, but the Elizabethans certainly did. The heyday of production was in the second half of the 19th century. Looking for a source of iron ore for their ironworks in South Wales, in 1853 the partners of the Ebbw Vale ironworks formed the Brendon Hills Iron Ore Company. To get the ore across the channel, they promoted the West Somerset Mineral Railway. An Act of Parliament was passed in 1855 for a 4ft 8.5” line from Watchet to the principal mine at Raleigh’s Cross, then to Heath Poult at the western end of the Brendons. Ore was to be carried down to Watchet, then transported across the Bristol Channel to Ebbw Vale via Newport. The principal mines were at Raleigh’s Cross and Gupworthy, but pits opened between Eisen Hill, nine miles to the west, and Colton, to the east. Small villages grew around the main mines, with cottages, a shop and chapels, which doubled as schools. In 1862 a Miners’ Institute was built, offering evening classes and lectures. Methodism was strong in the area and temperance encouraged. Mining was done by sinking shafts or driving adits, some of which also served to drain water from the mines. Some of the mines were very deep; the ore often occurred in vertical seams. The preferred method of working was to mine along drifts at several levels. When this ore had been worked out, the floor of the drift was mined, sending the ore down to the next level, from where it could be raised to the surface. Most of the shafts have now been capped or blocked, but some of the adits were still accessible when a small group of us investigated in 1980. Gupworthy Level was a straight passage around 100 metres long. About 50 metres from the entrance was the remains of a wooden dam, with spillways and sluice gates. Beyond this, the passage was almost filled to the roof with waste rock. Crawling over this led to a large flooded chamber, with the remains of a waterwheel buried in collapse debris. Another adit ran for about the same distance, then turned abruptly right, over a collapse, to a small chamber leading to upper levels and two extensions at floor level, blocked by waste rock and a collapse. Baker’s Pit was a deep almost vertical shaft, reputedly 61 metres deep, which we declined to explore, although the underground workings here are supposed to be extensive. Although the mineral line at the top of the hill could be operated with conventional steam engines – indeed, at one time there was a scheduled passenger service – hauling the ore down to Watchet
Gupworthy Level
was beyond the capabilities of the standard engines and there were several derailments and deaths until a better method was found. The ingenious solution was to construct a gravity-run inclined line, with two tracks in parallel, from Raleigh’s Cross to Comberow. This took four years to build, at a cost of £40,000 – £26 million today! More than 25,000 cubic metres of rock was blasted from the cuttings and used to fill depressions to create a smooth incline. The winding house was built under the incline at the top, where two cast iron drums each carried more than 1000 metres of cable, weighing 3.2 tonnes. Loaded wagons were used to raise empty ones as they made the descent, taking 12 minutes to reach Comberow on a one-in-four slope. At either end of the incline, wagons were moved by standard steam engines. Passengers were permitted to travel on the wagons, at their own risk. At first, unloading the wagons onto ships at Watchet was not without its problems, as the pier could not be used and carts had to be driven onto the beach for the ore to be loaded into boats. After some litigation, another Act of Parliament was passed, and the piers were rebuilt by 1862. In that year the broad gauge West Somerset Railway reached Watchet from Taunton, using the east pier. The WSR tried unsuccessfully to take over the mineral railway, which used the west pier. The two lines never joined up. The mines were worked between 1857 until 1879, when a recession caused closure. Some small-scale operations continued until 1883. Two mines were worked at Timwood (near Comberow) and Colton between 1907 and 1910, but gradually ran down. A steel shortage caused by the Great War caused the rails to be commandeered for scrap in 1917 and the buildings fell into disrepair. Today some of the old miners’ cottages have been extended and modernised, but little remains of the other infrastructure apart from some overgrown heaps of stone and the railway cuttings around Raleigh’s Cross. Many of the West Somerset Mineral Railway sites are accessible to the public and there are information boards in the unroofed winding house at Raleigh’s Cross. Watchet Museum displays photographs and other memorabilia related mainly to the mineral line. The Brendon Hills is an interesting area to visit and see some industrial archaeology – and the Raleigh’s Cross Inn is handily situated for refreshments.
Phil has been caving for more than 50 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and until his retirement was a caving instructor at Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves
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(Photograph by Phil Hendy)
MENDIP TIMES
Motoring page.qxp_Layout 1 23/05/2019 15:25 Page 90
MENDIP TIMES
Christopher Cooke the car consultant
DO you need help in finding your next car or in selling your current car? Don’t worry, Chris Cooke can help you. If you are looking to buy a car think of Chris as your “personal car shopper”. He can help you by offering expert, impartial advice, taking the hassle and stress out of it for you. If you are looking to sell your car let him manage the process for you. A private sale can net you up to 15% more than if you traded the car in with a dealer. Chris is passionate about cars and this is his 22nd year working in the automotive sector, from retail and corporate
Mendip Times reduces travel costs
100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business
sales, aftersales, car brokerage to the head of detailing at a supercar main dealer. He is renowned for being a perfectionist about the quality of cars, new and used and with his extensive knowledge and experience working in the prestige car market, as well as running his own detailing business, he can use this attention to detail and knowledge to provide you with a first class buying and/or selling service. As Chris himself says about buying and selling a car: “I provide independent advice and guidance using my exceptional car knowledge and perfectionist qualities to match you to potential cars. “It is important to me that you avoid making a purchase you later regret and save yourself as much money as possible and my service ensures you get the best financial return from any sale.” Chris is based in North Somerset, and willing to travel up to 60 miles from BS24 postcode. Details: 07857 200 266 or email chris@thecarconsultant.co.uk
Welcome to The Car Consultant Do you need help in finding your next car or in selling your current car? If you are looking to BUY a car think of me as your “personal car shopper”. I can help you by offering expert, impartial advice, taking the hassle and stress out of it for you. If you are looking to SELL your car let me manage the process for you. A private sale can net you up to 15% more than if you traded the car in with a dealer. BUYING A CAR
l Identifying the requirements for your next car l Sourcing l Test Driving l Doing the deal
SELLING A CAR
l Valeting l Photographing l Creating an advert l Helping you do the best deal with potential buyers
Prices start from only £22 per hour
Get in touch today for a free conversation! Call me now, use social media or email me to discuss exactly how I can help you Tel: 07857 200266 e-Mail: chris@thecarconsultant.co.uk • website: www.thecarconsultant.co.uk PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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MOTORING
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For servicing, repairs and sales of all makes of caravans and motorhomes
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Morgans mark Drive It Day
Lunchtime at the Old Down Inn at Emborough
MEMBERS of the Mendip Morgan Owners Club took to the roads around Somerset to celebrate Drive It Day 2019, an annual event organised by the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs.
Robochop is about
Robochop at work
GRASS-cutting season is here and Somerset County Council will again be cutting more than 9,400km of roadside verge to help keep drivers safe – with the help of a new
machine nicknamed Robochop. The remote-controlled mower allows operatives to work safely away from the highway. It also means reduced disruption for road users as in many locations there is no longer a need for lane closures or slow-moving tractors in the road. The council cuts roadside verges for safety purposes but is also committed to protecting wildlife where this does not conflict with safety requirements. Therefore, only a single one-metre swathe of verge will be cut, except on specific bends and at junctions where increased visibility is required.
UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES Sales – Service – Parts – Repairs
ALL MAKES SERVICING – VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS, AIR CONDITIONING, MECHANICAL & BODY REPAIRS Collection/Loan Car by arrangement MOT TESTING STATION
COMPETITIVE PRICES ON TYRES, BATTERIES AND EXHAUSTS
ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY SERVICE
QUALITY USED CARS Your peace of mind is our priority
CLEEVE HILL, UBLEY. TEL: 01761 462275 (24hrs) www.ubleymotors.co.uk
Bailey approved body shop and workshop
● Caravan Servicing ● Annual Habitation Checks ● Alu-Tech Bailey Approved Repairers ● Warranty Maintained ● Damp Repairs ● Accident Repairs ● Insurance Repairs ● Accessory Fitting
Our shop stocks a full range of accessories and equipment
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Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 91
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Dr Phil for Health Secretary?
THE beauty of being a comedian is that you’re largely free from the key performance indicators, rules and regulations that bedevil most other jobs. All you have to do is get bums on seats and try to make people laugh. The downside of comedy is that a By Dr PHIL subversive joker is not the character trait HAMMOND most employers look for outside of a comedy career. Boris Johnson aside, very few comedians have made it in politics. Maybe there’s room for a few more. As I launch my campaign to become Health Secretary (“I’m not perfect, but I have to be better than the last three”), I’ll be funding myself with comedy shows. The first will be at the Komedia in Bath on July 4th, before I decamp to the Edinburgh Fringe for August. By then, Boris Johnson could be Prime Minister and Jacob Rees-Mogg Chancellor, a situation almost as beyond satire as Donald Trump ruling the free world. And spare a thought for Theresa May, ideally unsuited to be a leader, but unbelievably hardworking even as her own side were very publicly ripping her to pieces. If we want kind and compassionate politicians, we need to be kinder and more compassionate to them. And we also need to be kinder to each other. As a doctor, I’ve long since realised that kindness is the best medicine. It works for everyone and it’s very hard to get the dose wrong. Conversely people who suffer cruelty, particularly in childhood from someone close to them, bear life-long scars that have a huge impact on their physical and emotional health. Sad things happen in all our lives (my Dad took his life when I was seven), but I was protected from long-term harm by my amazing mum, and then the love of an extraordinary step-father, a very compassionate brother, a truly wonderful wife, two great kids and some fabulous friends here in the Chew Valley. Time and again, I’ve noticed that the patients who make the quickest recoveries from illness are those who have great support, with lots of love and deep relationships like the roots of a tree. But millions of people aren’t so lucky. Loneliness can be as bad for you as smoking. Human beings are social animals, leaves on a tree who yearn to be connected. The best politics should include everyone and rekindle our communities with kindness. Come join my bidet revolution. From the bottom up. Dr Phil is at the Komedia in Bath on July 4th. His show will then be available free online for those who can’t make it or can’t afford it
PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Plop the Raindrop
I’M fascinated by the shapes of different clouds. I woke up in a cloud yesterday looking like the biggest blue whale you have ever seen. Recently I was in one that looked a bit like my old friend the mammoth, except I was pure white and not a mucky shade of brown. And one of my giant tusks was shorter than the other one. Perhaps I had been in a fight. I bet if you look hard at the sky you can imagine seeing space craft and all kinds of weird and wonderful things. Don’t look at the sun though – that can damage your eyes. You might imagine there was a magical artist in the sky, the way that we drops of water can change our shapes and colours. Bright reds, crimsons, oranges and yellows – in fact every colour of the rainbow. I’ve been in thousands of those too I can tell you. But of course clouds are just one of nature’s wonders, free to wander wherever the wind takes us. Clouds look solid don’t they? But you know when we get too close to the hills we leave a long, drizzly trail across the ferns, as if a giant slug had crossed there. I think you human beans call it mist or fog. You like giving names to everything. Big, white clouds, piled up like cotton wool, you call cumulus. I call them feather beds, since we usually drift in them sleepily across a clear blue sky. Higher up some of the clouds are called cirrus. We call them sky icicles since it’s so cold up there we form long, thin lines, like the skeleton of a fish. The big dark clouds you call nimbus, we call play time! They’re the ones full of rain, ready to roar and pour from the sky at any minute. I was in a cold spring shower last week that turned us all into giant hailstones, which bounced off car windscreens and put a white coat across the roads. It didn’t last long though. We were soon melted and heading for the drains. You humans have different names for them as well. Sewers should definitely be avoided. I can’t tell you how smelly and uncomfortable they can be. I was lucky to be tipped down something called a storm drain, which went into a ditch, which bubbled and glugged down into the River Yeo. That’s how I ended up at the seaside. Weston-super-Mare should be avoided in the summer when humans invade. It’s far nicer in winter when it’s left to the wind and the gulls. It was a gull that swallowed me. Typically I did a few circuits of its body before I was expelled in a giant pooh, which landed on a car. As far as I can tell I’m now on my way to Birmingham. MENDIP GRANDAD
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HEALTH & FAMILY
“Magic table” provides fun and Boxing for health? BOXING coach Sean Jenkins has launched a series of nongames for Russets residents
contact sessions in Radstock for people suffering with Parkinson’s Disease. Sean said: “Boxing helps to ease the condition by stimulating the brain and challenging the person to practice certain balance routines, footwork drills, combinations and improve fitness levels. It can also decrease the medication needed as well as improve the sleep of participants.” l Sessions Wednesdays, 2-3pm at Norton Radstock Amateur Boxing Club, £5. For details contact Sean on 07727 041615.
A “MAGIC table” has been gifted to the St Monica Trust’s, Russets dementia care home in Sandford to provide a stimulating physical, mental and social activity for residents. The table, which is a fully portable projection system, offers a series of interactive light games specifically designed for people with mid to late stage dementia. The table was donated to the care home by the husband of a former resident who regularly attended Musical Memory sessions at the Russets clubhouse with his wife when she was alive. He has fond memories of the pleasure she took from participating in all the activities at the Russets and wanted to donate an activity that future residents could benefit from. St Monica Trust’s therapy assistant, Wayne Lawn said: “We only installed the magic table a few weeks ago, but the difference it’s made is quite incredible. We just want to say a huge, huge thank you to the special gentleman who kindly bought the magic table for us.” The games the system projects are designed to encourage cognitive, physical and social interaction between players to reduce some of the symptoms of dementia and engage the brain which can slow the progression of the condition. Each game is carefully designed with no strict parameters to ensure nobody will be left behind if they don’t understand the concept. There are more than 220 different activities on it for people with different levels of dementia and physical capabilities. The activities include quizzes and scatter games where you move feathers or clouds out of the way to reveal a picture underneath or splat games where you pop bubbles or chase fish. Wayne Lawn, said: “The splat games are very popular with residents and the pictures which start off black and white and can then be coloured in provide a lot of enjoyment. It depends on an individual’s level of dementia but some of our residents can get quite competitive with each other, seeing who can pop the most bubbles or move the most clouds.” The system is completely portable which allows the magic table to be used in a range of ways to suit differing levels of dementia. Games can also be projected onto a white mat on the floor which means residents with mobility can walk across a rock pool and make ripples in the water. For residents with more advanced dementia, the projector can be raised to project images of a coral reef onto a white sheet placed on their bed.
Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals Theas’ Footcare, Mobile Foot Clinic
38 Palmers Road, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 9PB Mobile: 07849 033 055 • Email: thea-m-1@hotmail.co.uk
Details: 0800 952 0300 or e-mail carehomes@stmonicatrust.org.uk
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MENDIP TIMES
Eat, talk, laugh and smile with confidence SOMERSET residents can have their smile restored by an established local dentist. Dr James Main has recently relocated to Apex Dental in Street and has extensive experience in cosmetic and implant dentistry. James Main explains: “When people come to me with low expectations, it is very rewarding to be able to give them back their self-esteem, with the range of treatments available in modern dentistry. From dental implants to invisible braces and porcelain fillings, I can improve patients’ quality of life, without having to refer them to other dentists.” James is the only dentist in Somerset offering a four-year written guarantee* on all the recommended treatments he carries out. He says: “By offering my dentistry skills at Apex Dental, I will be able to maintain my guarantee policy. This is not only a reflection of the confidence I have in the treatments I carry out, but it also gives my patients the long-term assurance in the investment they make
PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Dr James Main can help improve your quality of life with cosmetic and implant dentistry
in their dental health.” Dr Main is offering convenient early evening and Saturday appointments for patients who prefer to be seen outside normal working hours. To book an
appointment with James, call 01458 445538 or 07960 011879 or email james.main@tlc4teeth.co.uk. * Provided you attend for regular maintenance care as required.
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Best foot forward
HEALTH & FAMILY
JUST for June, Instep Foot Health is offering an uplifting feet makeover with a 15% discount, including any creams and dressings. It also has a complimentary trial of an electric foot and leg massager and circulation booster where clinically appropriate. Whether pre-holiday, post hospital or in training for a sports event, it says attention to your feet can enhance performance as well as boost mood. So if you, a friend or a family member could benefit from taking the weight off the feet and a load off the mind – June is a good time to do it!
COURT HOUSE
e Care Home with a difference. We offer all that you would expect from a high quality, family run Care Home set in a Georgian House in the lovely village of Cheddar, Somerset.
You can live your life to the full and choice is our favourite word. Rooms now available with full en-suite facilities and total personal care is offered. Rated by the CQC as good in all areas and outstanding for Care
The Manager – Chris Dando • 01934 742131 • chriscourthouse@gmail.com Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 97
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MENDIP TIMES
Wells and Mendip Singles Social Group Looking to enhance your social life? Then join our Group who meet every Tuesday for a social evening. We are holding an ‘Open Evening’ on Tuesday 2nd July from 8pm in Wells. We are a warm, friendly and enthusiastic group of single people who enjoy each other’s company and regular events which include: l Eating out l Skittles l Walking l Birthday celebrations l Visiting National Trust Houses and Gardens l Music and Dancing l Breaks and Holidays l Joining with other Branches We are always ready to extend a warm welcome to new members.
So for more information, why not contact us? www.spasinglesocialgroup.co.uk email: spasocialgroupwells@gmail.com or contact Jackie on 07707 528346
HEALTH & FAMILY
Social group celebrates 40 years
SPA social group was founded in 1979 and has enjoyed success over the 40 years in providing opportunities for single, over 50, folks to join in a wide variety of events and activities. They have planned an open evening on Tuesday, July 2nd in Wells from 8pm to celebrate their birthday and you would be most welcome to join them. The events of the group are varied and present opportunities to eat out, walk, enjoy music and dancing, visits to the cinema and skittle evenings. They regularly visit National Trust houses and gardens, take boat trips and organise parties as well as winter and summer balls. They meet every week in a warm, welcoming environment where they enjoy each other’s company and are able to make new friends. SPA has six branches throughout the South West and once a member you can attend any of the branches’ social evenings or their events providing yet more opportunities to broaden your social life and experience.
CLARE HALL
Details: spasinglesocialgroup.co.uk or call Jackie 07707 528346 or 07598 043807.
Ston Easton • Radstock
Nursing and Residential Care Luxury New Rooms Available
For viewings please call 01761 241626 or email: admin@clarehallnursinghome.co.uk
PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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EVENTS
Every dog has its day in Shepton Mallet THE annual Festival of Dogs in Shepton Mallet attracted hundreds of pedigree and mixed-breeds – and their families – to the town’s Collett Park for a day of activities, play and pampering. The day raised £1,000 for smaller-sized animal charities.
Judge Emma Green (centre) with the winners of one of the dog show classes
Barbara Dell, aged 102 and from Shepton Mallet, enjoying the attentions of two of the Scentwork Wessex dogs
Spring sale
Igor, an 18-month-old English bulldog, who came with his owners from Yeovil
Young at heart – 11-year-old Charlie, from Street, on the agility course
A SPRING fair and plant sale held by the Friends of Stanton Drew Primary School raised £750 for school funds. Pictured (l to r) Izzy, Kat Roberts and Amber manning the teddy bear stall.
Enjoying the dog show – just one of the main arena attractions
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COMMUNITY
Artists create wonder walls
STREET artists and muralists of all ages transformed Glastonbury’s skate park for the third year running with a weekend of painting and music. Temporary wooden “walls” between eight and 16 feet long were attached to the perimeter fencing around the park to provide space for the artists to work their magic. The event was organised by Styles of Somerset and supported by Glastonbury Town Council. Let us spray – Storm Hannah made working conditions tricky for the artists
Skateaway – walking the dog
The action continues as a young artist gets to work
Spirit of harmony – artists work happily alongside each other
Using a book to create wing-like shapes
Styles of Somerset welcomed everyone to try their hand
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Several well-known street artists took part
Many of the artists had made scale drawings beforehand
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Community award
NOMINATIONS have opened in Peasedown St John for the village’s Sara Holley Community Award, launched eight years ago in memory of one of its most popular residents. In April 2011 Sara, who was well known and respected for her love of the community, unexpectedly passed away at the age of 43. Over many years she played a key part in numerous community projects, including her involvement with the first Party in the Park festival in 2009. To remember Sara, the Party in the Park festival team, in partnership with her family, introduced the Sara Holley Community Award. Sara’s son, Scott, said: “We can’t believe eight years have passed by already. A day doesn’t go by when we don’t think about mum, and so are grateful that Nathan and the Party in the Park team organise this award every year. “I know that our mum loved the village and would have felt great pride having a community award named after her." The award itself will be presented at the village’s Party in the Park festival on Saturday, June 8th in front of a crowd of over a thousand people. Last year, Linda Day was recognised for almost half a century of service to Peasedown St John Methodist Church and the wider Peasedown community. All nominations must be received by the Party in the Park team by 5pm on Friday, Party in the Park chairman Nathan Hartley (left) with Scott Holley May 31st.
Time well spent
COMMUNITY
SOME 30 years of service on Timsbury Parish Council, 13 of them as chairman, were marked with a retirement presentation to Veronica Packham at the annual village meeting. The council said her exertions and leadership, at public meetings and behind the scenes, has done much to make Timsbury what it is today, both by preserving what was worth keeping and improving wherever possible. Most recently this included the pedestrian improvements on North Road, the creation of the Hub Library, the remodelled War Memorial and the resurfaced Ha Ha footpath. The presentation was made by vice chairman Derek Wheeler.
Easter bonnets
Details: www.peasedownpartyinthepark.org.uk
Drivers wanted
CHURCHILL and Langford Minibus Society is appealing for volunteer drivers. It once had 27, but now has just seven, with many drivers having to retire at 75. Its regular destinations are Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon, Nailsea, Wells and Worle, with occasional trips to Cribbs Causeway, Clarks Village, Bath and Glastonbury. Private outings are also possible. Membership of the society is free and open to all local people. The typical fare donation is £2-3. Details: Laura 01934 863679 or Malcolm 01934 852314
MEMBERS of the Welcome Club in Holcombe celebrated Easter with a tea of toasted hot cross buns and Easter biscuits, followed by an Easter hat competition. These were judged by members by placing coins on three hats of their choice. The winner with the highest value of money was Cathy Selway, second Cathy Hughes and third Linda Dyer. Over £20 was raised for the Dorothy House hospice. There was also another reason for celebration as member Linda Smith was presented with a bouquet of flowers for her golden wedding.
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MENDIP TIMES
50 years of twinning
STREET Twinning Association hosted 44 friends from Gravenchon in France, including some new members, which augurs well for the continuation of twinning. The group arrived on Saturday evening and went to their hosts’ homes. During the day on Sunday and Monday there was time to relax, catch up and time for new hosts and guests to get to know each other. A dinner and dance was held at the Meadway Hall in Compton Dundon on the Sunday evening and Street Parish Council hosted a reception in Crispin Hall on the Monday. They enjoyed music provided by Dylan and Liz Thomas and John and Ann Diment. Gifts were exchanged and a plaque celebrating 50 years of twinning was presented by MarieFrancoise Loison, deputy mayoress of Gravenchon, to Nina Swift, the former chairman of Street Parish Council. Councillor Swift said: "It has been a pleasure to have been part of the visit by members of Gravenchon's Twinning Association, hosted by Street Twinning Association. It has been an enjoyable weekend, with well organised events and many opportunities for socialising between the English and French. “It is particularly important in these troubled times to continue to forge friendships across the Channel. I received a plaque on behalf of Street, from the Gravenchon visitors. It was
made by a co-operation between both French and English twinners to celebrate 50 years since the alliance between the two towns was forged. We look forward to displaying this one here and to seeing its counterpart over in France." Street is twinned with both Gravenchon in France and Isny in Germany. In October a group will be travelling to Isny to stay with their twinned families for five days. In 2020 there will be a trip to Gravenchon and Street will host a group from Isny. A spokeman said: “Twinning is a wonderful experience for any age and a way of meeting new people both locally and abroad. There are more families, individuals and couples in Gravenchon and Isny waiting to be linked with people in Street and the surrounding area.”
Details: www.streettwinningassociation.org.uk Facebook @streettwinning
Pru prepares to bow out
IT is nearly the end of Inner Wheel District 20 chairman Pru Witter's year in office and she spoke about her role and also what Inner Wheel was all about as she visited the Inner Wheel Club of Chelwood Bridge' as a special guest speaker. She said: “I feel it is this depth of friendship that Inner Wheel Clubs offer that is our best-kept secret and we must start to broadcast this to encourage new members.” Inner Wheel District 20 covers clubs in Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset. Chelwood Bridge Inner Wheel president Marjorie Robinson (left) and district chairman Pru PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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New club’s first donation
Pictured (l to r) Craig Dunbar and Pete Francois of BARB Search & Rescue with Ric Canham, Paul Bateman and Sam Bateman of Axbridge District Rotary
AXBRIDGE District Rotary Club, Somerset’s newest, formed last year, has made its first donation, a £425 cheque to BARB Search & Rescue, a Burnham-based charity that runs lifesaving rescue hovercraft and inshore rescue boats. The club is a satellite of the Rotary Club of Burnham-on-Sea and decided to act knowing that BARB is run exclusively by volunteers and requires £50,000 a year to keep its rescue service running. Members staged a quiz in Axbridge Town Hall and thanks to entry fees and other fundraising netted £425 on the night. Club founder and Axbridge resident Ric Canham said: “We’re a small and very new group so to raise this much from our first event is terrific, many thanks to everyone who took part or contributed including help from The Lamb, The Crown, Alvis Bros and PNT Electrical. “The BARB volunteers do an amazing job. This April alone they were called out nine times to a variety of incidents ranging from rescues in mud to searches for missing people. Their funds come entirely from donations. “Rotary is about all supporting communities and the Axbridge club is proud to be up and running and playing its part.” Future projects include maintaining local road signs, Christmas tree recycling and days out for underprivileged children. The club meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in The Lamb, Axbridge.
COMMUNITY
Support for heart institute
THE Big Hearted Valentine's Ball held in Bath raised over £7,000 and enabled the trustees to present a new video fibre optic intubating laryngoscope to the medical staff in the intensive care unit at the Bristol Heart Institute. Pictured is Dr Amit Ranjan receiving the equipment from Gerald Creed, from Temple Cloud, who organised the event after being treated for a heart attack at the unit. Gathered around were the medical staff, including Professor Raimondo Ascione, leading heart surgeon at the BHI, and Dr Chris Monk, a consultant cardiac anaesthetist. Gerald Creed announced the trustees were now ready to start raising money for other equipment within the heart institute. The Big Hearted Bike Day will be held at Bath's Odd Down Circuit on Sunday, October 6th. The day will feature cycle racing and a family fun ride and is being organised with the help of British Cycling who contributed £600,000 towards the cost of building the circuit.
Chamber supports pageant
Details: Ric Canham 07780 963738 or email rick.canham@btinternet.com
Connect group is up and running
CHEW Valley Connect – a new social group for anyone over 50 years old – held a successful first meeting in Redhill Village Hall. The get-together saw people swapping ideas for future events, ranging from visits to National Trust properties to walks and lunches. Chew Valley Connect will be arranging get togethers four times a year in different parts of the area – and you don’t actually have to live in the valley to take part. For details, email: chewvalleyconnect@gmail.com
AXBRIDGE Chamber of Commerce has donated £2,000 to the ten-yearly Axbridge Pageant, which is due to be held next year. John Bailey (centre) the pageant’s artistic director, is pictured receiving a giant cheque from chamber officers (l to r) Rose McDonald, Pat Filer, Liz Scott and Mike Sartain. John said: “Putting on the pageant is a hugely costly affair not least finding multiple costumes for the 300+ local people who take part! The generous support of the Axbridge Chamber of Commerce will play a big part in making next year’s event possible.”
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Top award for Mid-Somerset branch
Recruiting rangers
THE Mendip Hills AONB unit are looking for 15 adventurous young people who love the outdoors and who want to be part of a special group of young rangers. They will get a taste for what it’s like to look after the Mendip Hills and will gain qualifications such as outdoor first aid and navigation as well as taking part in conservation work and having fun doing outdoor adventure activities. Jim Hardcastle, AONB manager said: “The Young Ranger scheme is a fantastic opportunity for young people interested in the outdoors and conservation. We’re not looking for the most academic, we want to see applications from young people who already have a genuine interest in wildlife, conservation or outdoor adventure and can demonstrate this.” The Young Rangers are aged 11-13 and sign up for two years to take part in 20 activities on the first Saturday of every month, apart from August and December. The Mendip Hills AONB Partnership subsidises the scheme so that places are offered at only £120 per Young Ranger for the two-year programme. This covers all activities, equipment and the Young Ranger uniform. Details: to apply visit http://www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk/2019/05/14/mendiphills-aonb-young-rangers-now-recruiting-2/
Bishops on their bikes
BISHOP Peter Hancock, Bishop of Bath and Wells, and Bishop Ruth Worsley, Bishop of Taunton, will be dusting off their cycling clips to help launch the 2019 Somerset Churches Trust annual fundraiser, Ride+Stride. This is the flagship fundraising event for church trusts across the UK and this year takes place on Saturday, September 14th. Supporters walk, cycle or even ride a horse between the participating churches and other Christian places of worship and raise money through sponsorship and donations. The Somerset Churches Trust was founded in 1996 and over the last 23 years has given away more than £730,000 in grants to over 400 churches across the county. Bishop Peter said: “I first took part in a Ride+Stride event some 20 years ago and I have enjoyed every one of them that I have been able to participate in since then. “Jane and I will be taking part again this year so do give us a wave if you see us.” Michael Auton, Somerset Ride+Stride co-ordinator, said: “We are thrilled that both Bishop Peter and Bishop Ruth will take time out from their busy schedules to give their support to
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THE Royal Air Forces Association has awarded its top honour to Mid-Somerset branch life vice-president and former chairman Paul Branson. He was presented with a National Presidential Certificate awarded in conjunction with the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List 2019 “to acknowledge with grateful and sincere thanks his outstanding service to the association”. The presentation was made at the association’s national conference in Birmingham by the president Air Marshal Sir Baz North KCB. RAFA is the charity that supports the RAF family via its 74,000 members and its world-wide footprint of some 350 branches. The Mid-Somerset branch focuses on the Wells, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury and Street area.
Ride+Stride. We hope that cyclists and walkers across the county will join them to enjoy the beautiful Somerset countryside and help make a difference to our communities.” If riding or walking are not to your taste, you can still support the Somerset Churches Trust by holding a special coffee morning, bring and buy sale, flower show or other fundraising event on September 14th. Should you choose, 50% of the money you raise will be donated to your nominated church, charity or local group.
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COMMUNITY
Somerset Day in Street
(Photo courtesy of Nick Spratling)
THE village of Street joined in the countywide Somerset Day celebrations on Saturday, May 11th with music, dance and competitions for children.
Molly, aged seven and Arthur, aged three, who took part in the children’s craft competitions
Members of the Topaz dance group
Challice Morris, who are based at Brent Knoll
Beata Sobiak as Queen Aelswith, Dave East as King Alfred and Martine Crowther as a town crier announce the day’s events
Street police constable Mark Pople enters into the spirit of the day
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THE sixth Frome Children’s Festival extravaganza takes place on Sunday, June 23rd – and it’s all free. The event was chosen by the local community as one of Frome Town Council’s People’s Budget vote winners. And this year, the line-up is better than ever with activities on offer being suggested by local children during events such as the council’s “Make it Happen” youth conference. They include two zip wires across the river, trail rider stunts and coaching on the pump track, graffiti workshops, games coding, circus workshops, fun science, a sensory area, crafts and lots more. Cheese & Grain’s recording studio will also be open for music workshops. Fair Frome will be providing a free community lunch fair on the day from 12 2pm, although donations are very welcome. The main events are at Welshmill.
Frome Children’s Festival is a free day for the whole community
For details, visit www.fromechildrensfestival.org/childrens-festival/
Local hero given the freedom of Street
THE Freedom of Street has been bestowed on long-serving parish councillor and community supporter Lloyd Hughes. The honorary freedom honour reflects Lloyd’s many years of service to the community. He served on the council for 21 years and all colleagues were sad to see him step down this year. He was involved in setting up the skate park, the transfer of Merriman Park to the parish, along with the park’s substantial refurbishment and the annual fun day. Lloyd said: “The last person to receive the Freedom of Street was Matt Tomlinson, a war hero who served in Afghanistan. I can’t believe you have now given it to me.” The ceremony took place at the investiture of the new parish council chairman at Strode Theatre when other groups and individuals were also recognised for their contribution to Street life. The Community Award was given to Park Run at the end of its first very successful year. The Good Citizen’s award went to Viv Holland for her work for the homeless through the Harvest Church. The Young Citizen Award went to Isaac Hooper for his volunteering at Park Run. l Peter Goater succeeds Nina Swift as parish council chairman.
Milestone reached in church restoration
THE Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt Rev Peter Hancock, has dedicated new facilities – and a restored roof – at St Giles Church in Leigh on Mendip. The service – attended by 65 people – marked an important milestone in the preservation of the church: just four years ago it had been placed on Historic England “At Risk” register and the parochial church council faced a massive bill to bring the building back into good repair. The Friends of Leigh Church was formed to help the council undertake the enormous task. An appeal was launched to find the initial £500,000 to repair the structure of the chancel and nave roofs and create modern community facilities, including a community room and toilet. Fundraising to cover the costs of further works is still underway. PAGE 106 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
Payback team’s work is valued The team at work in Coleford
COLEFORD Parish Council has praised the work carried out by members of a Community Payback Team since 2017. Co-ordinator Keith Evans checks to see which jobs are most urgent to be dealt with each month; they range from picking litter, painting benches, clearing hedges and other duties to help keep the village neat and tidy. A spokesperson for the council said: “Their supervisor works tirelessly to make sure as many of the tasks are completed as possible and to ensure that his charges are kept hard at it. “Keith is pleased to say that the members of the team have done just that as they have completed their tasks with enthusiasm. The village has benefited from some of them bringing their previous skills to the job. “Not only do they complete their allotted number of community service hours as required, but the difference they make to the village is huge. The village would be a worse place without their hard work.”
Handbags wanted
DUE to recent successful sales, the popular handbag stall run by Rotary, Nailsea and Backwell, is running out of stock. If you have any good-condition quality handbags that you no longer need or if you just fancy a change, please contact them. Their next stall will be part of the farmers’ market on Saturday, July 20th. Details: Roger 01275 854076 or email roger.jan@blueyonder.co.uk
(Photo courtesy of David Chedgy)
Celebrate summer at Frome’s Children’s Festival
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Villagers summon the spirit of summer
COMMUNITY
HUNDREDS of people took part in Evercreech’s first Jack in the Green celebrations – a community folk revival event. The day raised money for villager Gary King, who brought the jack to life and who is running 2019 miles this year in aid of Surfers Against Sewage. Cam Valley Morris, Frome Street Bandits and young drummers joined in the procession from the Old Stores Studios to the Bullzini circus field for a village party. The procession was led by the Jack and villager Christopher Bullzini, a circus performer and high wire specialist, who recently walked above Norwich market on a tightrope 20 metres in the air. Nik Slade, who organised the event with friend Maria Cauti, said: “We were really pleased with turn out and feedback for this, as a first event, which will hopefully grow from strength to strength.”
Hundreds of people of all ages enjoyed the day
Gary King with organisers Maria Cauchi (left) and Nik Slade The Jack’s bird – made from recycled materials – is carried through Evercreech
Jack in the Green and Christopher Bullzini led the procession
Cam Morris with the Jack’s head and Christopher Bullzini Frome Street Bandits entertain at the village picnic
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Awards night beckons
TESTIMONIALS from clients ranging from the University of Bath to the Roman Baths and others have helped furniture maker and restorer Geoff Collard reach the finals of a prestigious awards scheme. Based between Peasedown St John and Wellow, Geoff has entered his Bath Furniture Makers business in the Maker and Designer categories of the Creative Bath Awards which aims to support local creative and tech companies; to share creative excellence and to highlight that Bath is a leading creative city. In his submission, Geoff says: “I’m not someone who seeks limelight, but I’m very proud of all the commissions I’ve undertaken over the years, and winning the award would help showcase my efforts and hopefully give pleasure to a lot more people.” Stephen Clews, manager of the Roman Baths and Pump Room, said in his testimonial: “Geoff has taken on some highly unusual and challenging projects in creating reproductions of ancient artefacts for use in teaching and display at the Roman Baths. “He accepted each commission as a technical challenge and understood our need for accurate representation of the original artefacts in respect of colour, weight and detail. He took great care to ensure a very high level of accuracy in what he did.” l The awards will be announced at an event in Queen Square in the city on June 13th.
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Seal-Lite can help improve your home THINKING of ways that you can get more out of your Mendip Hills home? How about some new windows, a door or conservatory? Whatever it is you’d like, the future of your home is bright with Seal-Lite! Seal-Lite is a specialist manufacturer and installer based in Clevedon who have worked throughout the Mendip Hills area for over 30 years. They’ve helped home owners make their homes more energy efficient, increase their living space and reinvent the look of their property. They work closely with all their customers to determine exactly what they’d like to do to their homes and then they use their unique combination of excellent products and wealth of experience to suggest the best ways to do so. As well as being committed to helping homeowners across the Mendip Hills area, they’re devoted to reducing emissions so this stunning area can retain its vibrancy. To do this, they source all their products sustainably, recycle
everything they use on site and even use a solar panel system to generate 50% of the electricity they use to manufacture your beautiful new windows and doors. So, by choosing Seal-Lite, not only is the future of your home bright but the future of our planet is too! Their products and services include:
HOMES & INTERIORS
PVCu windows and doors, Aluminium windows and doors, stylish composite doors, French, patio and bi-fold doors, tiled roof conservatories, orangeries, tenyear insurance backed guarantee on all installations, dedicated exclusive product aftercare service and fully employed installers.
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Inspirational driveways from Northavon Surfacing
THE next time you journey through an attractive residential area, pause to take stock of the array of beautifully designed and finished driveways. They provide an elegant approach, sitting alongside manicured lawns … and we’re not just talking block paving! Discerning homeowners are rediscovering the beauty and functionality of Tarmac. Tony Flook, an experienced engineer who heads up both Northavon Group’s residential surfacing and commercial highways divisions, is a strong proponent of the benefits of expertly-installed tarmac surfaces, which he says offer the perfect combination of resilience, practicality and beauty. He says: “Rolling up at home and being greeted by an inspirational driveway will always bring a smile to your face; it will most likely also add significant value to your property.” Northavon Residential Surfacing install all types of driveway, but Tony believes that Tarmac – in both its traditional and coloured forms – offers such tremendous value that it is having a well-deserved resurgence. The Northavon Group Residential Surfacing team is part of one of this region’s flourishing companies, providing expertly installed, Tarmac, coloured Tarmac and hard landscaping solutions for driveways, car parks, tennis courts, multi-use games areas and even skate parks.
As well as its strong aesthetic, Tarmac has benefits beyond other materials, that have been overlooked in recent years; it is skid-resistant yet smooth, installation is quick and efficient, it is surprisingly “green” and it is simple to maintain.
For details contact Tony at tony.flook@northavongroup.com or visit www.northavon-residential.co.uk where you can generate a discount code for your own project
PAGE 110 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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R.O. Dando and Sons Ltd Builders, Decorators & Roofing Contractors
HOMES & INTERIORS
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01275 333603 • www.dando.org.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 111
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Performing at the Royal Albert Hall
MEMBERS from Keynsham & District Mencap Society’s Music Man Project group joined in with other regional Music Man Project groups to perform together at the Royal Albert Hall. Over 200 musicians with a learning disability from across the UK took part. The performance ended with some Last Night of the Proms that saw the audience of over 3,000 people on their feet joining in and waving their Union Jack flags. Laura Jefferies, operations manager, said: “The evening was truly spectacular and such an incredible achievement for our musicians.” She said the 13 musicians from Keynsham worked really hard and attended extra rehearsals in preparation for the concert. This would not have been possible without music leader Naomi Tarrant and assistant Holly Rawlings who put so much work in behind the scenes to make it happen. The Music Man Project has only been running for a year – in fact the Albert Hall concert was exactly one year and one day after it was launched! Laura said: “It is incredible to see how much this hard working group have developed. They are testament to the fact that with the right support, encouragement and belief people with learning disabilities can achieve their highest goals and aspirations. They have already put on a wonderful show and should all be very proud of themselves.” The Music Man Project Keynsham takes place on Saturday mornings, 10.30-12.30 at the Queen’s Road Methodist Centre, Queen’s Road, Keynsham BS31 2NN. Details: www.keynshammencap.org.uk/music-man-projectkeynsham
Singing to the tune of £25,000
THE Jenny Peplow Singers will be performing in Frome in June at a concert to raise awareness about a centre for people with dementia and their families. The concert in aid of the Emma Sheppard Day Centre takes place on Friday, June 7th at 2.30pm in St Catherine’s Church Hall in Park Road. Since forming her choir in 2011, Jenny Peplow has raised £25,000 for various charities. The 48-strong choir – all female – perform songs ranging from Aerosmith and the Greatest Showman to Rodgers and Hammerstein.
Ready for festivals
LOCAL Somerset band, Kindred, continues to see growing success and has just come out of the recording studio where they recorded a new EP, In the Darkness, that will be released at the end of May. They are also playing the main stage at two Somerset festivals this summer, at Home Farm Fest in Yeovil on Saturday, June 8th and the Top of The Gorge festival in Cheddar on June 15th. With lots of other gigs throughout the year they continue to develop a strong following. A new lead singer, Michelle Mitchell, joined early this year and the band say they are really excited by their new sound. The rest of the band are also from Wedmore and Cheddar with Ian Scott (Scottie) on guitars, Helen Sayer on keyboards, Ian Anstey on bass, Clive Millar on drums and Heidi Neal on backing vocals. Scottie said: “The new EP has four fantastic tracks on it which we can’t wait to showcase. The sound feels much more grown-up and our new singer Chelle has the most amazing voice.” The band says its unique rock sound is inspired by their stunning surroundings in Somerset. Putting something back is important to the band and therefore 20% of all physical sales of their EP are being donated to BIBIC children’s charity. BIBIC supports children and their families who struggle with brain related disabilities such as downs’ syndrome, ADHD, cerebral palsy and others.
For more information about the choir, call Jenny on 01373 812093.
PAGE 112 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
The Jenny Peplow Singers
Pop-up theatre in park
STREET theatre and some off-beat puppetry entertained families in Shepton Mallet’s Collett Park as part of a series of events called Plays in the Playground, developed by Louise Lappin-Cook, director of Make the Sunshine Community Interest Company, and Teresa Gilbert, headteacher at Bowlish Infant School.
MUSIC & THEATRE Tall Tails, based in Shepton Mallet, on a walkabout in the park
The free shows attracted a large crowd
Squashbox Theatre’s Craig Johnson and as archaeologist Dr Alice Jones in a light-hearted, history-themed production of Bones and Stones
Summer brass
BURNHAM & Highbridge Band’s next concert “Anything you can do...” is at the Princess Theatre, Burnham-on-Sea, on Sunday, June 23rd at 7pm. They will be giving their unique treatment to a mix of music taken from brass band “Best Of” CDs, which will make for an entertaining evening. Doors open at 6.30pm and there will be the usual raffle and bar. Tickets are £7 (£6 concessions) available from the Box Office 01278 784464.
Details: www.princesstheatreburnhamtickets.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 113
(Photo courtesy of Louis Smith)
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Badminton Horse Trials – everyone’s dream to ride
EVERY year in early May, carloads of keen Mendip equestrians head off to the worldclass, five-star Mitsubishi Badminton Horse Trials. With RACHEL Whether we go to THOMPSON shop, to be in the MBE company of friends, or to watch our favourite riders tackle the famous cross-country course, it is the place to be. Imagine then, the excitement, the terror and stress if it’s your first time competing at the biggest and best three-day event in the world. I recently popped over to Shepton Mallet to the home of Millie Dumas to find out how a first time at Badminton feels. Millie’s mum, Katie, shows me around whilst Millie finishes her last ride of the day. There are several event horses in training and youngsters being brought on, owned either by the family or the wonderful owners attracted to the sport. Pausing to watch Millie’s first 5* horse (at Luhmuhlen) Action Packed – now retired at 22 and snoozing contentedly in his box – Katie tells me that Millie has always had an eye for a horse even as a child, bringing out the best in a succession of naughty ponies. Impressive facilities at the farm have been developed over 30 years. The paddocks bristle with 150 fences skilfully built by dad Robin and the steep hillsides are perfect for the gallop track built by the family. The horses are carefully produced with varied work including hill work,
Millie in action at Badminton
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Millie as a youngster
hacking, galloping every four days, dressage twice a week to improve strength and topline, and jumping once a week. Coffee on the lawn next to the pretty wisteria-clad, grey Mendip farmhouse, I learn a little about Millie’s life growing up on Mendip, attending Whitstone School and Mendip Pony Club. Competing at Badminton was the life-long vision: “Everyone’s dream to ride – the biggest in the world, terrifying but such a good feeling safely completing that 11 minutes of cross-country galloping and jumping, the crowds, supporters, family, friends, friends of friends all there to watch!” She and her 14-year-old partner Artie (Artistiek) got time penalties: “Better to be careful and come home safe.” Indeed, there will be other times. Worst thing about this career? “Injuries”, says Millie, “working so
hard, a horse at its peak, then something happens and it’s off for a year”. Best thing? Badminton! Of course! Training event horses is incredibly hard work, a lifestyle choice requiring dedication and resilience. Millie is supported by Katie (an experienced competitor herself), Robin (former international event rider – now an accredited trainer), Yogi Breisner (former Chef d’Equipe to the British eventing team), team GB dressage trainer Tracie Robinson and three or four apprentice rider/grooms. Together this team has produced amazing results, at only 26-yearsold Millie has been on British Junior and Young rider teams, winning four internationals and clearly has a very bright future ahead. Team Dumas are always on the look-out for horses, sponsors and owners to engage with this tough competitive but friendly sport. On offer are syndicate deals – for a small investment there is great fun to be had following your horse to competitions and being part of the action. Millie’s advice to young people keen to take up eventing is to get into an apprenticeship from the age of 16; you don’t need loads of knowledge just the right motivation and the ability to accept constructive criticism. “What are you doing today to relax?”, I ask. “Going camping this afternoon”, she says “with my boyfriend and the dog”. Millie Dumas, you definitely deserve a break.
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See top equestrian action in the heart of Mendip
RIDING
Last year’s winner Hector Baines competing on Top Biats
NUNNEY International Horse Trials returns to the edge of the village in June and offers the perfect opportunity to watch top equestrianists in action amid glorious Mendip countryside. The event, running from Friday, June 14th to Sunday, June 16th, at Southfield House at Whatley, has seen some famous riders compete in the past and this year promises to be no exception. Competitors including William Fox-Pitt, Andrew Nicholson, Sir Mark Todd and Sam Griffiths will be there and future stars of the sport of eventing are sure to be seen too. Organiser Bridger Parker said: “Nunney is a wonderful event that is now in its eighth year. We have a fantastic committee who all work hard together to ensure it runs smoothly, and we are extremely fortunate to be able to run at the home of Mrs Angela Yeoman. “This year we’ve made some considerable changes to the cross-country courses which will give a really fresh feel and we hope that people come along and enjoy a few hours in the countryside watching great sporting action.” The main showjumping arena is surrounded with seating and trade stands and the all-important score tent, making it the social hub of the event, while across the roads, acres of countryside are open for spectators to roam as they catch the action of the exhilarating cross country. The trials are sponsored by Duo. Entry to the event is free on Friday and £12 per car on Saturday and Sunday. For full details, visit: www.nunneyhorsetrials.co.uk
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Winners on the road
IT’S good to see the road race season now well underway across Mendip, with national races, club time trials and sportives all taking place. The annual Junior Tour of the Mendips attracted some of the best up-and-coming young cyclists to a three-stage event CYCLING offering something for everybody. The first with EDMUND day started with a short time trial by Chew LODITE Valley Lake, followed later in the day by eight laps of the circuit around the shooting ranges near Priddy. I like this circuit; it’s a fast one but can be easily affected by the strength and direction of the wind blowing across the top of the Mendips. The second day was one for the climbers, taking in three laps of a circuit starting with a hard climb up Harptree Hill. After a quick descent down to Chewton Mendip via Tor Cross Bottom the route returned through Litton to reach the fierce climb at West Harptree again. This is one of my favourite training loops on a bike. It has a good hill climb, although I prefer the less busy and slightly harder route up from East Harptree. The gradient during the descent section is quite low so you still have to work to keep going and then the section back to Harptree is nice and fast. Needless to say, the time it takes me to cover these stages is a lot longer than the juniors! This year the overall winner was Sporting Heroes
Harptree Hill
London based Leo Hayter who also picked off first place in the time trial and the long hard third stage. Somerton is also a popular base for road race events and where Glastonbury based Team Tor 2000 organised a two-stage national race for the top male riders. This time the gains made in the short time trial at Snap Hill were not enough to hold off those who were stronger in the longer second stage. As they sometimes say, it’s all about horses for courses (but on bikes)! And that’s where the sportives also come in. Quite often, usually on a Sunday, somewhere across Mendip it’s likely you’ll come across a stretched out group of riders on a variety of bikes and outfits, taking part in a sportive. The chances are that they won’t be going as fast or as far as the organised road race but it still takes a high level of commitment and determination to complete it. Usually there is a good background story about personal challenge or raising money for good causes. As there are strict rules governing cycle races on public roads in the UK sportives are not races. Although entrants’ times are usually recorded and sometimes riders given their finishing position, the majority of riders will simply be happy to complete the distance within the time allowance. The most popular and best organised sportives locally are the Great Weston Ride (July 14th) and Bike Bath (June 30th). Both offer multi-distance options and still have places available. Sign up if you’re ready for a challenge, you know you’d like to do it!
Golf course has some inviting offers Learn to play golf with a PGA professional
Green Fee and Membership Specials Clubhouse open to Everyone Wheathill, Lydford-on-Fosse, Somerton TA11 7HG www.wheathillgolf.co.uk 01963 240667 PAGE 116 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
WHEATHILL Golf Course at Lydford-onFosse is looking supreme thanks to perfect spring weather and the arrival of a new head greenkeeper, Simon Ryall. Simon, aged just 24, said: "I am extremely excited about undertaking the role of head greenkeeper at such a young age, I feel as if my youth allows me to bring a new eye for design and how the course can be presented. Wheathill is only a young course in comparison to others in the area and because of this the club is constantly looking to develop itself and attract new members.”
Wheathill continues to offer a “Gateway Membership” for six months at just £250; Gateway Plus Membership is £350. Wheathill also boasts a four-hole, pay-and-play, academy course and driving range. Junior Golf Camps run throughout the summer for five-year-olds upwards and Wheathill is an accredited HSBC Golf Roots facility. It is renowned as an excellent teaching academy run by PGA-qualified professionals and welcomes beginners to learn a new and healthy sport. Individual and group lessons are available.
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Chew Valley celebrate
CHEW Valley Rugby Club celebrated their 50th anniversary and their most successful ever season in style with three nights of celebration in a marquee on their pitch. Former international referee Ed Morrison and Bath and England prop Gareth Chilcott were guest speakers at a fundraising evening for 300 people aimed at helping to raise £150,000 for new pitches for the club’s growing junior section.
Swim champions
THE Mendip Mallards, part of Mendip Disabled Association, hold a swimming gala each May and competitors from Plymouth, Wimborne and Yeovil take part. The event is a wonderful display of personal effort and great team spirit and is followed by tea and the award of medals. The Mallards were the overall winners this year. Run entirely by volunteers and dependent on donations, The Mallards look forward to their 40th gala in 2020. The Mallards meet every Sunday at Strode Swimming Pool from 12.30-1.30pm. This is a protected swim and the pool is closed to the general public. Details: join them any Sunday, or contact Malcolm Campbell 01935 478032.
Chew Valley U14s
While the first team won promotion, the U14s scored a double beating Keynsham in the Somerset Cup and Wells in the Bristol Combination Cup. Ed Morrison said: “There’s tremendous talent in this club.” Gareth Chilcott said: “The club is going from strength to strength.” Club chairman, Shane Cameron, said: “It’s been a very special season.” It was also a special night for him – he and his wife Hazel were celebrating their 33rd wedding anniversary.
Pictured (l to r) Former referee Ed Morrison, club president Andrew Tanner, chairman, Shane Cameron and former Bath and England prop Gareth Chilcott
New members welcome
ROBERT Wilcox, of local company Massey Wilcox, is pictured presenting a new ramp to Prattens Bowls Club chairman Barrie Dando. The new ramp will give easier access to the green for disabled bowlers and allow machinery on to the green for essential upkeep. The club welcomes new members. Their regular Monday evening club nights are held throughout the season and anyone is welcome to go along from 6pm. Details: Barrie or Pauline Dando 01761 412705.
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(Photography courtesy of Mike Lang)
SPORT
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In a world of change – a Mendip certainty
IN a year where our politicians failed to agree even on what Brexit means, let alone how to deliver it, the oceans filled with plastic, and the hottest February on record made the seasons feel all wrong, one thing remained true, simple and pleasant: the Mendip Table Skittles League. There’s a lot of change in the world at the moment and a lot of it is for the good, even when it causes anxiety or conflict, but it’s nice to have a part of your life where things are much as they have always been: and that was the league this year. There were no real surprises in either of the end-of-season divisional league tables, where the expected teams triumphed, and the same was true for the team cup matches, with the exception of the Division One Cup, where the Stoke Inn, improving all year, pulled out a stirring surprise victory to prevent the Crown, Regil from a clean sweep of cup and league trophies. I’m not a betting man, but if I had been, I would definitely have bet on an Airport Tavern player winning the Division One Individual trophy by the time it came to the final and I would have put my house on a Lion-Harts pair winning the pairs trophy, albeit because both finals were contested only by players from those respective teams. Again, there was a nice balance of change and continuity. Change in Kerry “Young ‘Un” Cross overcoming Andy “Laner” Lane to win the individual title and put a new name on that trophy; a victory fully deserved, as Kerry beat a trail of past winners on his way to the final. And continuity in the Division One Pairs, with the exact same final with the exact same result as last year, as Alan “Dibs” Dibble and Mick “Mickey” Parsons saw off Dave “Beardwell” Banwell and Steve “Steve” Miles for the bragging rights.
Blue is the colour
The Division Two pairs final
The Division Two Individuals Cup had two players who’d never made it to the final before – more change – with Lewis Hearse pipping Howard Jefferies to the winner’s podium in a good final, while continuity in abundance was maintained by Jean Sweeney making it three in a row to keep hold of the Ladies’ Cup, beating off a good challenge from Joyce Payne, reversing the final of five years ago. In the Division Two Individuals, it was a bit of both change and continuity, as Details: www.mendiptableskittles.co.uk
THE summer season is underway at Wells Tennis Club with five newly-painted bright blue courts and clubhouse. Eight teams are competing in the North Somerset League plus coaching for juniors and adults is available to non-members. The club’s open weekend is due to take place on July 20th and 21st. Meanwhile, the club continues to work with Wells Rugby Club on its proposed move to Haybridge that could include indoor courts. Club president Tasha Smith officially opens the painted courts joined by club committee members and junior players
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previous finalists, but new winners together, Chris and Simon Harris, saw off the winners from two years ago in Lewis Hearse and Martin Sperring. If you’d like to add to add a little bit of positive change to an otherwise reassuringly-settled world, by adding either yourself or your venue to the league for the forthcoming season that starts in September, please let us know, at andyskittles@yahoo.co.uk. Andy Evans, secretary
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Heartbreak for Norton in play-off final
Race fans seize control
SPORT
A champagne moment for Crediton
A DISALLOWED try in the last minute of their play-off match against Crediton RFC denied Midsomer Norton promotion after an outstanding season. Going into the final phase of the game 15-19 down, the home side forced several penalties before crossing for what players and supporters were convinced was the winning try; seconds later, Crediton were celebrating. Norton had finished runners-up behind Chew Valley in Tribute Western Counties North whilst Crediton finished in the same position behind Sidmouth in Tribute Western Counties West. As Crediton celebrated, there was similar disappointment for Frome RFC who lost their Southern Counties play-off 10-23 against Buckingham RFC.
Are you ready to race?
SHEPTON Mallet Slot Car Racing Club handed the controls to youngsters and their families at an open afternoon to attract more people into the sport. The club, which meets at the town’s leisure centre, organised practice sessions before a series of races. The club has a thriving membership, but would like to encourage more people from the local area to join them on Wednesday evenings.
Fun for all ages Alex Mitchard scores for Norton
A determined Norton pack fought until the very last minute
The club has a number of cars suitable for beginners
For details, visit: www.sheptonslotcarclub.com or on Facebook at: @sheptonslotcarclub MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 119
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Mavericks hope to repeat success
MIDSOMER Mavericks, Midsomer Norton Cricket Club’s women’s cricket team, began the defence of their Somerset softball title with a home victory over Street. The Mavericks have made tremendous progress on and off the pitch since training sessions for women were first held at the club’s Withies Lane ground in 2017. The Mavericks went through their 2018 season fixtures unbeaten. The Mavericks had been active throughout the winter, playing an indoor, six-a-side version of the softball game, winning the BANES women’s indoor softball league back in January to add to last summer’s success when they became the county’s first ever women’s softball champions. The progress made by the Mavericks has helped establish the women’s team as one of the most enthusiastic and active parts of the club. Winning the Somerset title earned them an invitation to Taunton to watch Western Storm take on Yorkshire in the Kia Super League. There are currently more than 30 women’s teams in the Somerset league, most playing just softball but some playing with a hard ball also. Softball games are played under Barrington Rules: each batting side starts with 200 runs, runs are added as scored with five runs deducted for each wicket lost. The batting side is divided into pairs and each pair bat for four overs. l Women’s cricket training takes place on Thursday evenings (7-8.30pm) at Midsomer Norton Cricket Club’s Withies Lane ground.
Street were restricted to 245 runs
The Midsomer Mavericks
Street’s women’s team
The Mavericks won by 44 runs
For more information, contact Jennie via angerlina1999@sky.com Visit www.somersetcricketboard.co.uk for details about other clubs.
Early success
CAMERTON and Peasedown Croquet Club’s year has got off to a great start. They now have more members and have won their first round of matches. They also celebrated National Croquet Day on May 12th. They have issued an open invitation to visit the club, perhaps for a team building exercise or just an enjoyable get-together. Details: Mo Boys 07970 922867
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Let the party begin – and there’s some rugby
Sevens is fun, fast and furious – with a party atmosphere
THE fun and competitiveness of sevens rugby returns to Frome in June for the eighth Frome Sevens tournament. Whilst the matches – especially at the highest level – are serious, there will be plenty of socialising. The matches all take place on Saturday, June 15th with a total of 52 teams playing across six pitches – a total of 144 games all free to watch! The tournament curtain raiser is on Friday, June 14th with an evening exhibition game between Rugby Against Cancer and Aniers RFC. Organised by Frome RFC, there are five different levels: Men’s Open, Men’s Social, Men’s Super Social, Ladies Open and Ladies Social. The men’s and ladies open level tournament is the highest standard of rugby to be played on the day; a qualifier for the Secure Trading RFU Sevens series. A prize fund of £750 for each winner of the men’s and ladies open is also on offer. Mike Rutt, one of the organisers, said: “The whole event is run by volunteers, mainly members and friends of Frome RFC. The tournament is completely free to come up and watch, we will have music playing all day creating a festival feel to the whole event which leads late into the night in our clubhouse.”
Anyone for table tennis
SPORT
TABLE tennis is big in Compton Dando, where organisers are inviting more people to join them for one of their table tennis afternoons or evenings in the village hall. The entry fee to play is £3 per session or £1 to watch, including tea/coffee/biscuits. Any profit goes to Julian House in Bath, with £2,800 collected over the last three years. Details: Richard Davis 01761 490727 or email richardjamesdavis@hotmail.com
Top team
Rugby for girls
WINSCOMBE Rugby Club is hosting an open event in June to persuade more girls to take up the sport. With the season over, around 20 of the under-13s squad will be moving up to the under-15s, so there is plenty of opportunity for youngsters to get involved. The open afternoon takes place on Sunday, July 9th from 2-3.30pm and any girls in Year Seven onwards are welcome to join in. Coach Mark Harris said: “Last season we had nearly 25 girls playing and training on Sunday afternoons. “All girls get a chance to play and train and it is a great way to keep fit and meet new friends!” For details, contact Jeni at fleetwood27@icloud.com
ST JULIAN’S Church School in Wellow is celebrating success in the annual School Mountain Bike Regional Competitions. Mali, Zac, Charlotte and Evelyn came fourth overall, with only three seconds separating the top four teams, but finished first against all the other primary schools from Bath & North East Somerset.
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THE Royal Navy International Air Day will take place on Saturday, July 13th at the Royal Naval Air Station, Yeovilton to showcase the Fleet Air Arm’s current and future capabilities and historic accomplishments spanning over 100 years. As one of the busiest military airfields in the UK and home to many aircraft operating in front-line squadrons and training units, the air station’s gates will be open to an expected 40,000 visitors. The show will include over five hours of dazzling flying displays featuring fast jets, historic warbirds, helicopters, formation aerobatic display teams and role demonstrations enhanced by spectacular pyrotechnics and flares. Unique to Air Day is the dramatic pyrotechnic-filled Commando Assault demonstration by Royal Marine troops
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F-35 Lightning
and the Commando Helicopter Force – an unmissable finale to the thrilling line-up. This show has everything to keep
the whole family entertained. For the thrill seekers, there will be simulators, fairground rides and helicopter pleasure flights to enjoy.
Mendip Times has teamed up with the organisers to offer readers the chance to win one of three pairs of tickets. Just answer this question: how many visitors are expected at Air Day? Answers on a postcard to Air Day Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon BS40 7RG.
Details: www.royalnavy.mod.uk/airday
Vintage vehicles and skills
WESSEX Midsummer Vintage Show will be staged for the 11th successive year at Semington, near Trowbridge on the weekend of June 15th and 16th. The event has as its main aim raising funds for the lifelimited children of the Childrens' Hospice South West, but they also want to provide a great day out for all. The show brings together a wide range of vintage and classic cars, tractors, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, steam-powered vehicles and military transport. Their working section of old crafts demonstrates skills from blacksmith to bodger, and the use of pole lathes. You can even try your hand at using one under expert instruction. We will have an Aveling & Porter steam roller on site for its first public appearance since being completely restored. This, together with a large number of miniature traction engines will help to make this show quite special. The stationary engine section with many exhibits, some well over 100 years old, will be of great interest as they drive various kinds of vintage machinery. Everyone is catered for at the show. For those who want a break from the vehicles there is a craft marquee, and the living history groups will be at Semington once again. There is a bar and plenty to eat, and they do not forget the little visitors either. Each day they will be holding the "Wessex Great Sweet Grab", free sweets for all visiting children. Gates are open from 10am. Entrance fee £5 per adult, accompanied children under U14 are free.
(Photograph copyright of MOD Crown)
Win tickets to Air Day
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If you like music and guitars you will love this show!
WHAT’S ON
THE sounds of some of the greatest guitarists of all time will be brought to life on a single stage in June. The Story of Guitar Heroes at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil on Friday, June 14th, is an awe-inspiring, dynamic show which transports the audience through time: from the 1950s with artists such as Chuck Berry and Hank Marvin from The Shadows, through gifted legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page, to modern day players such as the great Brian May and the electrifying Steve Vai, to name but a few! Now in its fifth year and presented by guitar virtuoso Phil Walker, the show's extraordinarily-talented band uses more than 30 guitars to recreate and accurately reproduce the sound and ambiance of each guitar hero. Featuring video footage of historical moments, with state-of-the-art lighting and delivered with a light-hearted vibe, this makes for a truly sensational and enjoyable evening. Phil explained: “I wanted it to be a show with something for everyone, but also to really pay tribute to the journey that the guitar has taken. “So I start very early on in the history of the guitar with people like Bill Haley, Eddie Cochran, The Shadows, Jimi Hendrix and we work our way up to more modern players like Brian May and Joe Satriani. “But we also look at a range of guitarists, so it’s not just the rock genre, but we include people like Tommy Emmanuel, Albert Lee and perhaps people that are less mainstream but who are equally awesome in their talent and contribution to music.” For details, visit: www.storyofguitarheroes.com
Wind in the Willows
OPEN Air Theatre comes to Timsbury on Saturday, June 29th with Quantum Theatre’s brand new adaption of this timeless classic, Wind in the Willows. Take your own picnic to the idyllic venue of Parish’s House and join Mole, Ratty and Badger lazing on the river bank, messing about in boats, and rescuing the reckless Mr Toad from his brushes with the law in this heart-warming, whimsical tale of friendship, mishap and madcap adventures. Picnics from 4pm, theatre from 6–8pm approximately. Take appropriate clothing, rugs or low backed chairs – the show will go on whatever the weather! Light refreshments will be on sale before the performance and during the interval.
Holding court
COURT House Farm in Portishead is holding its second creative event on June 8th and 9th providing lifestyle inspiration with pop-up vintage home store, great textiles and talented hand-made designs. Sustainability campaigner Claudi Williams will be talking about her family’s plastic-free adventure on the Sunday.
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Heroes celebrated
THE fourth Wells Festival of Film has been hailed a great success by organisers who are already planning next year’s event. The them was heroes and amongst those celebrated was Guide Dogs for the Blind who attended a screening of Pick of the Litter - £100 was raised for the charity. The Wells branch of the Royal British Legion was also supported. Sally Cooper, from Wells Film Centre which hosted and organised the festival, said: “The weekend saw lots of people supporting our array of films all covering heroes from different areas.”
Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD
Starts Friday 7th June Starts Friday 14th June Starts Friday 21st June Starts Friday 28th June
EVENT CINEMA JUNE
Late Night (15) • X-Men Dark Phoenix (12A) 3D/2D Men In Black International 3D/2D Toy Story 4 3D/2D Yesterday
Taming Of The Shrew 5th 7pm Liam Gallagher 6th 7pm Take That 8th 8pm & Wed 12th 3pm Romeo And Juliet 11th 7.15pm
● Book in person ● Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk ● Over the ’phone: 01749 673195
New village festival
THE inaugural Barrow & Flax Festival will take place from June 13th-16th hoping to reignite the flame of the former Barrow Gurney festival. A team of young enthusiasts have put together a fabulous and varied programme of events for all the family in the North Somerset villages of Barrow Gurney and Flax Bourton. From the high-brow to the low-brow – opera to music hall and poetry to comedy – and a huge dollop of fine food and local fare, the festival will have something for everyone of all ages and tastes. Details: www.barrowflaxfestival.co.uk
Top of the Gorge cycling challenge
THE Mendip Lakes and Lumps Ride is a brand new challenge bike ride that is taking place on Father's Day, Sunday, June 16th, as part of the National Trust's Top of the Gorge Festival near Cheddar. The festival itself is a weekend-long celebration of the great outdoors and what the Mendip Hills AONB has to offer to visitors and the ride is specifically designed to reflect this whilst at the same time offering participants a rewarding physical challenge in its own right. A spectacular 43-mile route means that riders get to explore some of the very best parts of this stunning area as they visit the lovely Blagdon and Chew Valley lakes and also get to take on two challenging Mendip climbs – Burrington Combe and, of course, the iconic ascent up through Cheddar Gorge. And when the cycling challenge is over, the day out most certainly isn't – participants also get free day entry to the main festival itself, where they will also be rewarded with free food as part of their ride entry. And there will be plenty of activities on offer at the festival to occupy non-cycling family members and friends, so it really does offer the opportunity for a whole-family day out where bike riders can take on the cycling challenge while other family members explore the main festival site, before all joining back up in the afternoon to spend some quality time together. A spokesman said: “We want to see all sorts of people taking part on all sorts of bikes and just enjoying what is a pretty spectacular route – and of course having the festival activities alongside for non-cyclists means that it can actually be a whole family day out with something for everyone”. The event is registered with British Cycling and riders will be provided with a whole host of event support services. The event organisers are also asking riders to consider if they can fundraise for Prostate Cancer UK while taking on the challenge. Details: www.mendipsride.com
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Palace prepares for garden festival
THE Bishop’s Palace Country Garden Festival celebrates its fifth year this summer and will once again take over the splendid grounds of The Bishop’s Palace in Wells from June 14th-16th. The 14 acres of RHS partner gardens will be at their absolute peak; with parterres filled with the scent of myriad roses and dramatic borders aflame with summer colour, all set amongst the medieval ramparts of the ancient palace and its famous well pools. The festival will fill the gardens with a range of stalls, including nurseries with rare and specialist plants, food and drink, garden gadgets and tools, sculpture, outdoor seating and paints, and many more, all designed to inspire you to love and use your garden. Some of the stalls will be hosting hands-on demonstrations to help you to learn new skills and improve your gardening knowledge. There will be a range of gardenthemed talks from speakers such as
Chris Beardshaw and Tamsin Westhorpe. There will also be an opportunity to join head gardener, James Cross, and the garden team from the palace for a very special Gardeners Question Time when they will attempt to answer all your problematic gardening questions. The team will also be offering regular garden tours throughout the long
WHAT’S ON
weekend, which are a perfect opportunity to get the inside story and behind-the-scenes scoop on what really goes on at these historic gardens. Live music will be performed on the south lawn and in the chapel throughout the festival, with a variety of top acts from around the South West to entertain visitors whilst they sit and soak up the atmosphere.
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Carnival fun day is here
MONEY raised from this year’s Frome Carnival Fun Day – on Saturday, June 1st – will go towards the cost of encouraging more clubs with bigger carts to take part in the main procession in September. Fun Day organisers Emily Denne and James Edwards said: “We know that the public have noticed a reduction in the number of floats attending September’s carnival in recent years and the carnival committee are determined to address this. “We love and welcome all entries to our carnival, and floats are, of course, a really important part of street carnivals. We have therefore made the decision this year to offer financial support to every large float who attends our procession. This will only be possible if we drastically increase our fundraising income throughout the year, and the fun day is our single biggest fundraising event.” The fun day will be held in Victoria Park between midday and 5pm and will feature family friendly activities, games, food and drink, stalls and much more. It will also feature the annual selection of carnival babies, prince and princess and ambassadors. Frome Carnival’s dog show will again be a central part of the day and there will be a carnival-themed trail around the park for children. Emily and James added: “We are truly excited about this year’s fun day, which truly does promise ‘something for everyone’! We would ask the Frome community to support the fun day and by doing so, you will all help to ensure that Frome enjoys the best street carnival it has had for many years!”
Festival has something for everyone
Imogen and Ellie
WELLS Theatre Festival boasts an expanded programme for its second year, with 17 productions being performed over the weekend of July 11th–14th. The festival welcomes two of this country’s most accomplished actresses, Imogen Stubbs (True Colors, Sense and Sensibility) and Suzanna Harker (Mattie in the original, UK version of A House of Cards and Jane Bennett TV adaptation of Pride and Prejudice also starring Colin Firth). Imogen will be performing a rehearsed reading of David Hare’s Amy’s View alongside her daughter, Ellie Nunn. Imogen Stubbs said: “I am delighted to come to the Wells Theatre Festival. My partner Jonathan Guy Lewis performed there last year with his play I Found My Horn and he had an amazing time.” Susannah Harker has developed Austen Sisters with her sister Nelly Harker focusing on the relationship between Jane Austen and her sister Cassandra. Susannah said: “I am really excited to bring our play Austen Sisters to such a beautiful venue. Wells Cathedral is a thrilling performance space.” Other highlights include the return of award-winning playwright and actor Jonathan Guy Lewis who this year will direct his new, highly acclaimed production, Soldier On in The Bishop’s Barn and family favourite, The Railway Children presented by Somerset’s Hordern Ciani Theatre Production Company in Cedar’s Hall. Local young actors have already been cast to play the leading roles alongside a professional cast in a brand new musical adaptation of this well-loved classic story. Amongst the children’s shows the festival will welcome the return of Mufti Games and Brave Bold Theatre who are offering some free shows to primary school children. Artistic director, Ros Johnson, said: “I am really excited that we have put together such a diverse programme for 2019. Theatre and live performance not only entertains but it can also inspire debate and many of the shows in this year’s festival programme tackle important issues like dementia, mental health and the environment. This year’s festival truly offers something for everyone.” Details: www.wellstheatrefestival.org
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Help to make this show one to remember ENTRIES are now open for the many classes at this year’s Mid-Somerset Show – the last to be held on its current site before moving in 2020. Organisers are hoping for a record number of entries across the board – from cider and cheese and crafts and dogs to heavy horses and cattle – to bring the curtain down on the Cannards Grave Road showground in style. The show – entrance is free to pedestrians – takes place on Sunday, August 18th; this year’s president is Matthew Showering. Next year the show will move further south of Shepton Mallet town centre, but still alongside Cannards Grave Road. More breed classes have been introduced in the cattle section, including Highland and Galloways. In conjunction with the Shepton Mallet Horticulture Society, this year’s show will have two new classes for dahlias. Elsewhere, people who are willing to demonstrate their skills are being offered free space in the rural crafts area. More than 70 per cent of trade stand space has been sold already. Show chairman Ian Harvey said: “We are keen to mark this landmark in the show’s history with yet another record day and hopefully some special displays remembering past shows.” There is still time to become a sponsor of the show and Ian added: “The success of this year’s show will, as usual, depend on the wonderful commitment of our members,
WHAT’S ON
Now is the time to prepare for the Mid-Somerset Show
helpers, class entrants and traders without whose invaluable contribution we could not provide such a great day out for general public.” l Entries are now open for the eighth Harvey Family Cup short story competition for young people aged 11-16. This year’s title is Jump for Joy. Entries of 400-500 words should be posted to the Show Secretary, Mid-Somerset Show, Crowne Trading Estate, Shepton Mallet BA4 5QQ or emailed to secretary@midsomersetshow.org.uk by July 27th. The winners will be announced on show day.
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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.
May until August Brewery House open by arrangement for five to 20 visitors, for the NGS. An organic garden, Southstoke, Bath. £3.50, children free. Details: John Brooke 01225 833153. Bank Holiday until Sunday June 2nd “Tales & Legends” lots of half term fun, 10am to 6pm, Bishop’s Palace Wells www.bishopspalace.org.uk Wednesday May 29th to Saturday June 1st Royal Bath & West Show, see page 11. Wednesday May 29th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support: “Sight & Sound” 1.30pm, Backwell WI Hall. Details: Sheila 01275 462107. Matilda – half term matinee musical, Charity Theatre trip to Bristol Hippodrome. To book: Chris 01458 273085 www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk Lunchtime concert clarinet & piano,12.30-1.30pm St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton. Refreshments available. Details: www.stjohnschurchmsn.org.uk Thursday May 30th Mendip Ramblers mod 6m to Corton Denham, start 10am Cadbury Castle cp BA22 7HA, ST632253. Details: Dave D 01963 351077 / 07816 844345. Friday May 31st Shared Reading groups, every Friday. Join in, or just drop in to relax with a coffee and enjoy listening. Glastonbury library 10.30am-12; Wells library 11am 12.30. Details: 0151 7292200. Saturday June 1st Compton Dundon Church Fete 3pm Castlebrook Inn. Hog roast & dog show. Mendip Society walk an easy 5m from Orchardleigh golf club, nr Frome BA11 2PH. Meet 2pm.Tea to follow at club house, £10 (must be booked). Details: Gill 01934 742508. Kingston Seymour Market 10am-12pm village hall. Fairtrade goods, cakes, crafts. Tables £2. Details: 01934 830553. Sunday June 2nd Crank Up at Sweets Tea Rooms, 8am-5pm Blakeway nr Wedmore BS28 4UE. Wessex Stationary Engine Club. Mendip Ramblers mod 10.8m to Leighton. Start 10am Cloford, nr church BA11 5PH, ST747439. Details: Mike 01373 472101/07711 090656. Dog Show supporting Buddy’s Rural Animal Rescue 10.30am-4.30pm Haydon Drove, Wells BA5 3EH. Stalls, agility, bouncy castle, donkeys. Details: Greens of Mendip, Rookery Farm Facebook page. Sunday Tea, every Sunday in June, 2pm-5pm St Mary’s, Compton Dando. Please join us for tea & cake in our lovely village church. Tortoise & Hare Run, organised by Wells Classic Motorcycle Club: www.wellsclassicmotorcycleclub.co.uk Monday June 3rd Mendip Ramblers easy 3.5m cup of tea walk Stratton-on-the-Fosse. Start 2pm Stratton village hall. ST658511. Details: Trevor & Val 01761 232311/07976 629342. Congresbury Memorial Hall Club 8pm, friendship evening & bingo. Non-members welcome. Wednesday June 5th Weston-s-Mare Music Appreciation Society 7.30pm St Jude's Hall, St Peter's Church, Baytree Rd, BS22 8HG. Details: simonrawlings9@gmail.com or Dianne 01934 814752. PAGE 128 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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Thursday June 6th Mendip Ramblers mod 7.9m Ham Woods, Downside. Start 10am Dobbies, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PE, ST629427. Park away from store. Details: Roger 07803 791414. Lunchtime concert by Norton Hill School, 12.301.30pm St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton. Refreshments available – www.stjohnschurchmsn.org.uk Social table tennis all abilities 7.15pm Compton Dando village hall, £3pp. Details: Richard 07968 269841. Winscombe garden open for the NGS: 2pm-5.30 at Watcombe, 92 Church Rd, BS25 1BP £4, children free. Friday June 7th Shared Reading groups every Friday. Join in, or just drop in to relax with a coffee & enjoy listening. Glastonbury library 10.30am-12; Wells library 11am 12.30. Details: 0151 729 2200. Open Mic Night Redhill Club, BS40 5SG. 8-11pm, hosted by Jerry Blythe: 07900 587646. Memories Over Elevenses: 10.30am to 12, Radstock Museum, Have a cuppa and reminisce, please bring any interesting objects with you. Free, donations welcome. Castle Cary Choir concert 7.30pm All Saints Church, Kingweston. Tickets £10, incl refreshments, from lowerfarm@btconnect.com or 01458 223237. Acoustic night and a talk by Michael Eavis, Rook Lane Chapel, Frome. All proceeds to “WHY” free local counselling for people coping with a life threatening condition. Tickets £10 from fundraising@wehearyou.org.uk or 01373 455255. Friday June 7th and Saturday June 8th “Somerset Our County” Flower Festival, United Reformed Church, High St, Street. In aid of CLIC and church funds. Saturday June 8th Butleigh Church Fete, St Leonard’s Church green. Traditional village fete 2-4.30pm. Mendip Folk Dance Club Summer Ball 7pm Shipham village hall, BS25 1SG. Experienced dancers only please. Tickets: Pat 01934 742853. D-Day anniversary afternoon Tea Dance 4pm-8, Redhill Club, BS40 5SG. Swing Music, 1940s dress optional. £5 on door. Details: 01934 862619. Peasedown Party in the Park www.peasedownpartyinthepark.co.uk Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, CDs. Croscombe Summer Market 10-2pm, village hall, BA5 3RA. Local produce, plants, preserves, vintage lighting, crafts. To book a stall: 01749 572875. Book sale & Freecycle event 9am-12.30pm Winscombe Community Centre, Sandford Rd. Refreshments. Details: 01934 843986. Mendip Society walk from Winscombe, mod 6 miles, meet 2pm car park behind Woodborough Inn BS25 1HD. Details: John 01934 842868. Saturday June 8th and Sunday June 9th Portishead in Bloom, 16 gardens open. Programmes £5: www.portisheadinbloom.org.uk Stawell Open Gardens & Sculpture Walk. Sat, with plant sale, 11-5pm. Sun 2-5pm. Programmes £5 (U14s free) from village hall in Stawell, TA7 9AY. Refreshments. Sunday June 9th Draycott Strawberry Fair, 1pm. Chew Valley 10k www.chewvalley10k.co.uk Pop Up Sunday Lunch 1pm Camerton Community Hall, £13 Under 11s £7. Reservations with payment only: 07866 112689. Glastonbury Male Voice Choir Concert 7.30pm, Street United Reformed Church. Proceeds for CLIC
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and church funds. Congresbury garden open for the NGS: 11am-4pm at Yeo Meads, High St, BS49 5JA, £4, children free. Sunday June 9th to Thursday June 13th Wells Amnesty Group exhibition at the Bishop’s Palace, to support Refugee Week. Monday June 10th Mendip Folk Dance Club 8-10pm, St James Church Hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. All welcome £3pp. Details: Pat 01934 742853. Tuesday June 11th Fame – evening Charity Theatre Trip to Bristol Hippodrome. To book: Chris 01458 273085 www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk ‘Fakes & Forgeries’ talk by former detective Malcolm Kenwood for The Arts Society Mendip, 11am. AGM 10am. Bath & West Show Ground. Guests welcome. www.theartssocietymendip.org.uk Congresbury Over-60s Club The Reflections Singers. 2.30-4pm War Memorial Hall. Details: 01934 832004. Clevedon Art Club: Stephen Jacobson art career, presentation & framing, 7.30pm Sixth Form Centre Clevedon School, Valley Rd. Non-members £3. Wednesday June 12th Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers Annual Free Cream Tea for National Carers Week. All welcome, 2pm-3.30, WI Hall Backwell. Cakes also on sale. Nailsea Horticultural Society talk “Herbaceous Plants” by David Usher, 7.30pm United Reformed Church Hall. Wells Civic Society: Recreation Ground Trust’s project managers, Ruth & Ian Ames – White & summer social event, Wells & Mendip Museum, 7.30pm. “Along the lanes of Somerset” talk by Bett Partridge for Kilmersdon Gardeners, 7.30pm village hall, BA3 5TD. Wrington gardens open for the NGS, 2pm-5.30 at Mathlin Cottage & Warfords, School Rd, BS40 5NB. Combined admission £5, children free. Thursday June 13th Mendip Ramblers mod 6.5 miles, Westcombe & Spargrove. Start 10am, meet Batcombe Church BA4 6HE, ST690391. Details: Mo 07387 088151. Friday June 14th Cash Bingo Camerton Community Hall, 6.30pm for 7.30 start. Prizes & bar. Barn Dancing, music by Jeroka, 7.30pm Ditcheat Jubilee Hall, £4. All welcome. Caller, Peter Bolton: 01749 672911. Friday June 14th and Saturday June 15th Shipham Players present Outside Edge by Richard Harris, 7.30pm village hall. Tickets £10 from Hansfords www.shipham players.org.uk Friday June 14th to Sunday June 16th National Trust Top of the Gorge Festival: www.Nationaltrust.org.uk/topofthegorge Arts & Crafts Exhibition, St. Andrew’s Church, Banwell. Friday 6pm-9pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 124pm. Saturday June 15th Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, CDs. Leigh on Mendip Summer Fair: dog show, classic cars, stalls & games, live music, maypole, quarry tours. 12-4pm. Leigh Recreation Field. 01373 812459. The Maesbury Singers with a jazzy theme, 7.30pm Croscombe village hall. Tickets £10 on the door or 01761 232042. Drinks available. Caerphilly Male Voice Choir Rotary charity concert, 7.30pm Frome Memorial Theatre. Tickets £12.50: 01373 462795 www.fmt.website Mendip Ramblers mod 6.4 miles Wessex Wanderer
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to Chapmanslade. Start 10am Frome Station BA11 1RE, ST784476. Details: Mike: 01373 472101 / 07711. 090656. Mendip Society Open Day Westbury Quarry 10am4pm. Refreshments. Explore rocky wildlife areas, wheelchair accessible paths. Try dry stone walling! www.themendipsociety.org.uk Litton Fete Space Odyssey BA3 4PW, 11am-2pm, evening street party 7.30-midnight. Live music with The Mighty Rufus. Barr & BBQ. Tickets: Alison 01761 241544 or David 01761 241223. Somerset Schools Folk Dancing: procession 2pm, dancing until 4.30pm. More than 2,000 primary school children dancing together on Wells Cathedral Green. Axbridge Fete, 2pm at The Court in Axbridge, range of stalls, cream teas, entertainment provided by the Axbridge Singers and children from Axbridge First School Academy. Saturday June 15th and Sunday June 16th Wessex Midsummer Vintage Show off A361 at Semington, Wilts, BA14 6JF. 10am – 4.30pm. Adults £5, accompanied U14s free. Wessex Stationary Engine Club, supporting Children’s Hospice SW. Lympsham gardens open for the NGS, 2pm-5pm at Church Farm, Lympsham Manor & Worthy House, Church Rd, BS24 0DT. Combined admission £6, children free. Sunday June 16th Wedmore 30/40 charity cycle event: www.wedmore4030.wixsite.com/home Mendip Ramblers mod 10 miles to Bossington. Start 10am Selworthy overflow car park TA24 8TR, SS921468. Details: Janet 01458 835238/07706 181609. Wrington gardens open for the NGS, 2pm-5.30 at Mathlin Cottage & Warfords, School Rd, BS40 5NB. Combined admission £5, children free. Monday June 17th Congresbury Memorial Hall Club 8pm, friendship evening & bingo. Non-members welcome. Fagus Garden Club “Trees of Tyntesfield”, by volunteer guide Chris Watts. 8pm Methodist Church Hall, Nailsea. Members £2, visitors £4. Tuesday June 18th Bleadon Horticultural Society talk by John Studley on vegetable growing, 7.30pm Coronation Hall, BS24 0PG. All welcome £2. Wednesday June 19th Tales of a Victorian Country Gardener Francis Burroughes, Mendip Gardening Club, 7.30pm, Ston Easton village hall. Mendip Society walk from Charterhouse. An easy 4.5 miles. Meet 2pm Blackmoor Reserve car park, BS40 7XR. Details: Clive 01275 848052. Considering Adoption? Families for Children Trust information session 10am-12, Foot Anstey, 2000 Blackbrook Park Ave, Taunton TA1 2PX. Weston-super-Mare Music Appreciation Society 7.30pm St Jude's Hall, St Peter's Church, Baytree Rd, BS22 8HG.Details: simonrawlings9@gmail.com or Dianne 01934 814752. Thursday June 20th Redhill Club Classic Car & Motorcycle BBQ Gathering, BS40 5SG, 7pm-10. All welcome to park up for a chat. Details: 01934 862619. Social table tennis all abilities 7.15pm Compton Dando village hall. £3pp details Richard 07968 269841. Mendip Ramblers mod 7 miles Whatley & Great Elm. Start 10am Nunney Quarry car park BA11 4NL, ST735458. Details: Margaret P 01761 232042/07910 873853. Friday June 21st Memory Café: for people living with memory loss & carers, using items of nostalgia. Free, 10.30am-12,
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Radstock Museum. Easy access. Details: 01761 437722. Langport & District Red Cross volunteers past & present, celebrating 40th anniversary of the Red Cross Centre. Carvery at The Langport Arms, 7pm – please book with Chris: 01458 273085, followed by an evening at the centre from 8pm. Friday June 21st and Saturday June 22nd “That’ll Be The Day” 7.30pm Frome Memorial Theatre. Tickets £25.50 from 01373 46295 www.fmt.website Friday June 21st to Sunday June 23rd Flower Festival by Farmborough Floral Art Group at St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HX. Friday & Sat 10-5pm, Sun 2pm-4. Tower open Saturday. Free entry, all welcome. Saturday June 22nd Alhampton Summer Fete, from 12pm BA4 6PY. Miniature railway, birds of prey, duck race, BBQ. See Friends of Ditcheat School on facebook. Butcombe fete, 2pm at the Old Rectory. Yatton Schools Carnival. Jungle themed fancy dress parade starts 2.45pm: www.facebook.com/events/1604524429678928/ Street Theatre ‘Last Tango in Little Grimley’ 7.30pm Cossington village hall. Tickets £10 from 01278 722663/723105. Sunday June 23rd Burnham & Highbridge Band concert 7pm Princess Theatre. Tickets £7/£6 from 01278 784464. www.princesstheatreburnhamtickets.co.uk Frome Children’s Festival Welshmill Park and Cheese & Grain. Free: over 40 different activities for all the family www.fromechildrensfestival.org/childrens-festival/ St Paul’s Summer Family Concert with Priddy Singers 3pm Easton, nr Wells. Tickets £10 U12s free. Details: 01749 870511 or 01749 870604. Social table tennis all abilities 2.30pm Compton Dando village hall, £3pp. Details: Richard 07968 269841. Mendip Ramblers mod 11.6 miles Wells, Croscombe, East Mendip Way. Start 10am Ash Lane, BA5 2LR, ST544463 where W Mendip Way crosses. Details: Kevin 01749 672996/07816 842127. Monday June 24th “Gutenberg to Gates” a history of the printing industry with Roy Akrill, Wessex Stationary Engine Club, The Old Down Inn, BA3 4SA. 8pm The Mousetrap – evening Charity Theatre Trip to Bristol Hippodrome. To book: Chris 01458 273085 www.theatretrips.webeden.co.uk Mendip Folk Dance Club 8pm-10, St James Church Hall Winscombe BS25 1AQ. All welcome, £3pp. Details Pat 01934 742853. Frome Extravaganza charity fundraiser, Frome College 3-5pm. Tuesday June 25th Chilcompton Garden Club, 7.30pm village hall. Cottage Gardens by Angie Blackwell. Wednesday June 26th Harptrees History Society guided tour HMP Shepton Mallet 6.30pm, £18, conc £16 must be booked and paid in advance: 01761 221941 or 221758.
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“Talking Newspapers” Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support group, 1.30pm Backwell WI hall. Details: Sheila: 01275 462107. Thursday June 27th Mendip Ramblers mod 6.4 miles to Priddy. Start 10am Stockhill Woods car park BA5 3AS, ST548513. Details: Mike 01373 472101/07711 090656. Friday June 28th West Mendip Orchestra concert 7.45pm Friends Meeting House, Sidcot. Tickets £10 (£8, £2) on the door. Castle Cary Choir concert 7.30pm Holy Trinity Church, Street. Tickets £6 from Crispin Community Centre or on the door. Interval refreshments. Saturday June 29th Wind in the Willows, open air theatre, Parish's House, Timsbury BA2 0ND. Picnics 4pm, performance 6pm. Bring rugs & chairs. To book: 0845 450 5157. The Blue Notes with Hannah Wedlock from 6.30pm Elm Park Farm, Chewton Keynsham. Bring your own picnic! Tickets £15 from 0117 9868369 or 07952 524640. Supporting RUH Forever Friends Appeal. Cate Cody & her Jazz Cats, 7.30pm in the garden, Churchill Court Lodge, BS25 5QW. Tickets: 01934 852589 or www.churchillmusic.org.uk Congresbury Village Fete, gardening club show, dog show, stalls from 1.30pm St Andrews Paddock www.congresburygardeningclub.org.uk Mendip Society walk from Wedmore. Mod 5 miles. Meet 2pm car park on Cheddar Rd, BS28 4ED. Details: Brian 01749 672457. Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th June Floral Art Festival & Open Garden 10am–4pm Windsorgrove Farm, Long Street, High Ham, TA10 9DN. Langport Flower Club supporting the Red Cross. Sunday June 30th “Blues Vespers” an evening of blues music with the Backwell Boys, spirituals & readings, 7pm Holy Trinity Church, Cleeve BS49 4PN. Donations only. Refreshments. All welcome. Details: nigelbthomas1@gmail.com Mendip Ramblers mod 10.5m Sherborne Country Way leg 3 circular. Start 10am Purse Caundle, nr church DT9 5DY, ST696175. Details: Bob & Rosemary 01749 346023. Thursday July 4th Mendip Ramblers mod 6.4 miles Pylle & East Pennard. Start 10am Ditcheat, on road nr church and Harvester Yard BA4 6RB, ST625363. Contact: Roger 07803 791414. Friday July 5th Shared Reading groups, every Friday. Join in, or just drop in to relax with a coffee and enjoy listening. Glastonbury library 10.30am-12; Wells library 11am12.30. Details: 0151 729 2200. Friday July 5th and Saturday July 6th Claverham Beer & Cider Festival this year has a Gin Bar! Organised by Yeo Valley Lions. Details & tickets: www.claverham-beer-festival.org.uk Friday July 5th to Sunday July 7th “Danceworks 2019” Frome Memorial Theatre. Tickets £10.50, £8 from 01373 462795 www.fmt.website
JUNE CROSSWORD SOLUTION
ACROSS: 1 Useless, 5 Consort, 10 Pastrami, 11 Worthy, 12 Abused, 13 Holcombe, 14 Slow Train, 16 Inept, 18 Ashen, 19 St Dunstan, 22 Centwine, 24 Excite, 26 Finest, 27 On record, 28 Eyesore, 29 The Lady. DOWN: 2 Seat belts, 3 Lotus, 4 Slander, 6 Oh well, 7 Surrounds, 8 Rehab, 9 High Littleton, 15 Wrestlers, 17 Plastered, 20 Unearth, 21 Bitter, 23 Emily, 25 Cecil. MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019 • PAGE 129
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Friday July 5th to Saturday 13th Somerton Music & Arts Festival: www.somertonartsfestival.co.uk/ Saturday July 6th Jazz in the Paddock with Big R Big Band, 7pm Church Paddock, Winscombe Hill, BS25 1DE. Bring a picnic & chairs. Adults £10, children £5. Details 01934 843617. Wedmore Street Fair, 10am-4pm. www.facebook.com/WedmoreStreetFair Chewton Mendip Fete 1pm to 4pm. Summer Fair Stoke St. Michael Primary School 2-5pm. Stalls available: 01749 840470. Charltons Village Day, nr Somerton, 1-5pm. Local stalls, dog show, classic cars, bar, teas & BBQ. To book a stall: rick@rick-harrison.co.uk 07487 620202. Pink Bra’ss Concert, Wells Town Hall, fund-raising for Prostate Cancer UK Mendip Ramblers mod Wessex Wanderer Walk to South Brewham. Start 10am Bruton Station BA10 0DX, ST687348. Details: Mike 01373 472101/07711 090656.
A new addition to Coleford’s music community
ABBEY Piano Services has settled into its new showroom and workshop in Coleford – and is adding even more to the village’s vibrant music scene. Having relocated their Becky and Mark in their new business from Binegar – showroom and workshop in and moving home – to the Coleford village, Mark and Becky Doman have lost no time in recognising that Coleford has so much to offer musically. They were amongst the sponsors of Coleford Music Day at the Royal British Legion Club on Whitsun Bank Holiday and are now supporting the new acoustic nights at The Hub on the third Sunday of every month; they are also supplying for free a grand piano for a traditional hymn night at Holy Trinity Church on Friday, June 7th. Becky is no stranger to Coleford – she grew up there and her parents live in the village also. She has fond memories of visiting the shop which is now their base as a child and buying sweets. The couple are planning to start music lessons at the showroom and not just on the piano; a friend is a woodwind teacher.
PIANO TUNING, REPAIRS, RESTORATIONS AND SALES Servicing Pianos Throughout Bath, Bristol, Somerset and Wiltshire
PAGE 130 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2019
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