The Somerset Leveller - Issue 166

Brave Amelie, 12, makes friends on the high seas after cancer treatment

A12-YEAR-OLD has traded the Somerset countryside for the high seas as part of a special adventure.

Amelie Williams, from Croscombe, near Shepton Mallet, has taken part in a sailing adventure with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.

Diagnosed with a medulloblastoma tumour in 2023, Amelie last week set sail with the charity from the Isle of Wight, one of her first times away from home.

The trip was one of many the Trust runs, taking young people aged between eight and 24 on sailing and outdoor adventures to inspire them to believe in a brighter future living through and beyond cancer.

Amelie said: “I had a brain tumour. There’s a really big scar. When I came out of a really, really long surgery I was left with some ataxia, which is a balance disorder. I can’t move my hand much on one side.

“I can’t run yet or jump a lot. It’s really hard to watch people running and playing tag because running is my favourite thing.

“But I don’t get too upset because I know I can build my way up to running again.

“I felt really comforted because there were lots of people on the boat that could help me.”

The charity aims to help young people whose mental wellbeing often suffers beyond cancer treatment.

“This is not understood or talked about as much as it should be, leading young people to feel like they are the only one finding life after cancer just as hard,” a spokesperson said.

“Once their treatment has finished, they are often left with fewer friends and struggle with relationships, their

education suffers, they miss out on work experience, and they develop body image issues.

“Late effects of being diagnosed young include infertility, extreme fatigue, osteoporosis, thyroid problems, and hearing or vision loss.”

The charity’s sailing and outdoor adventures are aimed at giving young people a new sense of purpose and selfworth, rediscovering their independence and feeling optimistic about what comes next in life.

Amelie added: “I liked steering the boat, because it made me feel so powerful. It made me feel like a captain.

“I was scared that people would treat me a lot differently. This has shown me that lots of people go through this. It’s made me feel more confident and more reassured.

“I’ve had the experience of telling my friends and them not knowing anything about it. It’s good to have your everyday friends, but when

you come to the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, you get to make new friends that understand what you’re going through or what you’ve been through.”

Founder and patron of the charity, Dame Ellen MacArthur, said: “We see it time and time again. Young people arrive anxious and isolated. But they leave feeling part of something, accepted,

independent, and optimistic.

“We are only able to support as many young people as we do thanks to the players of People’s Postcode Lottery. Because of them, thousands of young lives have been transformed after cancer through life-changing sailing and outdoor activity adventures.

“This summer we will welcome hundreds of young people from right across the UK who need post-treatment support.

“We will be there for them and they will believe in a brighter future.”

The Trust is there for anyone looking for support, no matter how long off treatment they are. Visit ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org or follow @emctrust on social media.

CONTACTS

Advertising

Ruth White - Advertising Manager ruth@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 07973 758728

Juliet Barber - Ad Sales Executive juliet@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 07544 737860

Editorial

Paul Jones - Editor in Chief newsdesk@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 01963 401177

Sales Director

Debi Thorne - Sales Director debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net tel: 07714 289409

Publisher

Lloyd Armishaw - tel: 01963 401177

Drug driver jailed over fatal A303 crash

ADRUG-driver has been jailed for more than three years after a couple died in a collision on the A303 in Somerset.

Jessica Higgs, of Imber Road, Warminster, was driving a blue Mercedes Citan van on the busy route near West Camel on May 15 last year when witnesses said it drifted across the carriageway, colliding with a red Fiat 500.

The Fiat was carrying Thelma Huse and driver Tony Mist, pictured, both 69. Tony sadly died at the scene, and Thelma the following day.

Higgs, now 20, was taken to hospital where tests showed she had a quantity of benzoylecgonine, which occurs after cocaine use, in her blood that exceeded the legal limit.

On August 2, she was sentenced to three years and five months in prison at Taunton Crown Court and was

disqualified from driving for six years and eight months.

Thelma’s family said: “We have been devastated by the totally preventable actions of Jessica Higgs who through her drug use has caused the death of Thelma and Tony.

“Thelma’s children Kate, James and Bones, along with Tony’s children Amy and Sophie, have been through the worst year of their lives.

“Her five grandchildren, Jack, Sam, Lucy, Art and Abel have been deprived of a doting grandmother, known affectionately as Nanny Tea Bag.

“There are no winners in

this case and the sentence handed out today will not bring Thelma or Tony back but we hope that Jessica Higgs will spend her time in custody reflecting on the pain she has caused our families and also on her stupidity of getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after taking an illegal drug.

“We also hope that others will learn from this – as no journey is so important that it should take place when your brain is compromised by the effect of drugs.

“We would also like to thank all the emergency services, the air ambulance, the lady who comforted Thelma at the scene and the staff at Southmead Hospital in Bristol who tried so hard to save Thelma. We would like to thank Avon and Somerset Police for all their support over the past 15 months which has been commendable.”

Tony Hall, officer in the case, said: “Tony and Thelma were travelling to the West Country to celebrate his upcoming 70th birthday when this awful tragedy occurred. Our thoughts are with their loved ones, who continue to be supported by a family liaison officer.

“Jessica Higgs was found to be over the legal limit for benzoylecgonine, and during her police interview said she had no recollection of the moments prior to the collision. It is every motorist’s responsibility to make sure they are fit enough to drive before getting behind the wheel and it is clear Higgs was not.

“This is another painful and devastating reminder that driving while under the influence of drugs is a deadly decision that puts yourself and innocent road users at serious risk.”

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Reaction prompts Saxonvale debacle

THE developer picked as the preferred buyer for the Saxonvale site in Frome has withdrawn from the process in a shock move.

Somerset Council selected Acorn Property Group as the preferred party to take on the 12-acre site after a six-hour meeting of the Executive on July 31.

The decision - made unanimously - was greeted with disappointment from many in the town, including those behind the bid for the site by not-for-profit Mayday Saxonvale social enterprise.

However, not even 24 hours after the council's choice was announced, the firm said it had withdrawn from the process as “the local community does not wish to work with Acorn”.

A spokesperson said: “Acorn property Group prides itself on working with local communities to provide much-needed regeneration through residential-led schemes.

“Further to the meetings on July 31 regarding Saxonvale, it has become clear that despite our best efforts to collaborate with all stakeholders, the local

community does not wish to work with Acorn.

“Therefore, we have decided to withdraw from the process.

“Acorn wishes Frome and the local community the best of luck in developing this wonderful site in whatever direction they choose to take.”

After the news broke, leader of Frome Town Council, Steve Tanner, said: “We are aware of the statement Acorn have made that they have withdrawn their bid for Saxonvale.

“We have spoken with Somerset Council about this and they have indicated that they are currently considering their options.

“We will remain in touch with

Somerset Council and await further information.”

Reacting to the news, a Mayday Saxonvale spokesperson said the group was ready to move forward with the plans.

"The council have stated that they will now consider how to proceed, and we look forward to hearing from them soon," they said.

"Comments by the Executive councillors before their decision had an absolute focus on there being the minimum delay before redevelopment could begin.

"There is now no other developer with planning consent, or ready 'to get spades in the ground', but us.

"We are ready to work with the council, to purchase the site, and develop Saxonvale in the way that Frome deserves."

They added: "The initial decision was very hard for us all to hear, however, we need to acknowledge and empathise it was also difficult for the council to make.

"Our hope is that we can now all move forward, for the future of our town, together."

We

Being

and

Paul Gold

Independent Financial Adviser

Man attacked partner with baseball bat

TAUNTON man Ashley Jeanes has been jailed after assaults on his partner - including with a baseball bat and a broom.

The victim, who has not been named, has now spoken out to describe the physical abuse and controlling behaviour of 29-year-old Jeanes, pictured.

"I think the biggest thing for me, that broke my heart, was constantly hearing my mum tell me she was waiting for a phone call from the police, saying I’d been murdered," she said.

The victim reported the abuse to police and following an extensive investigation, Jeanes was sentenced to three years and one month at Taunton Crown Court on July 25.

He pleaded guilty to one count of controlling and coercive behaviour and three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The court was told two of the charges related to Jeanes attacking her with a baseball bat and a broom. On another occasion, Jeanes submerged her head under the water and she feared she was going to drown.

She sustained bruising during the

attacks and a cut to her forehead, which resulted in a permanent scar.

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said the abuse had a significant impact on her mental wellbeing, and she finds it difficult to trust anybody now.

Officer in the case, DC Jessica Bennett, said: “It is hard to put into words the horrific ordeal she endured over a significant period of time at the hands of a man who wanted to control her life.

“She showed incredible strength last year to report to us what had happened. Quite simply, without that, Ashley Jeanes would not find himself in prison and she deserves enormous credit for that.

“Jeanes’ brutal assaults and controlling behaviour didn’t just make her life a misery, it made her actually fear for her life. To the world Jeanes presented himself as a loving husband; but now everyone knows the monstrous truth of what a violent man he really is.

“Although she preferred for us not to use her full name, she wanted to share her story to make sure people knew what the real Ashley Jeanes was like, and we

SECURE SELF STORAGE

hope it provides anyone who is a victim of domestic assault with the confidence to tell us what has happened.

“We work closely with other agencies so we can help keep victims of domestic abuse safe. We will investigate all reports to try to bring the perpetrator to justice because them, and only them, are responsible for domestic abuse happening. But if any victim does not feel in a position to contact the police, please report it to Next Link or the National Domestic Abuse Helpline who will be able to provide you with support initially and advice.”

If you need support or are concerned about someone else, contact:

Next Link (Bristol & South Glos): 0800 4700 280

National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247

Police: Call 101 or dial 999

Dream house is now a nightmare

THE laughter of children in their best clothes, playing in beautiful, landscaped grounds, mirrors the sound coming from the nearby luxuriously-decorated marquee where a speech is being made...

A happy couple emerge to pose for photographs before the stunning Regency facades of the imposing - but pretty - house, built in the early 19th century.

Grade II-listed Woodlands Castle has seen hundreds of such events, providing the backdrop for thousands of photographs that stand to this day on mantlepieces and shelves around the country. It was the house a dream life lived in...

Now, it sits in near-ruin, on

the verge of unrepairable damage after years of neglect.

The home appears abandoned, unloved, of times gone by - a symbol of the fading status of the likes of former owner, eccentric aristocrat Sir Benjamin Slade.

It operated - under Sir Benjamin's ownership - as a successful wedding and conference venue until the spring of 2020, and the arrival of Covid 19.

The following year, it was used illegally as a cannabis farm, which did untold damage to the walls and ceilings - the fabric of a building holding thousands of stories.

Vandals also targeted the property; lead stripped from the roof, letting rainwater permeate every level, down to the basement; interior fixtures and fittings - from chandeliers to ornate panelling - ripped out.

The once-glorious Woodlands Castle is full of creaking beams and doors, crying for help before they degrade beyond repair.

Estimates of the work needed to bring it back to something like its former glory top £2 million.

But hope could be on the horizon, after ambitious plans to redevelop the property were revealed.

Prime Meridian, on behalf of Belstone Fox and Mr T Jones, has submitted plans that could bring Woodlands Castle back to the beauty and

landmark status it once embodied as a single home.

It will comes at some cost - to the setting of the property and the surrounding estate - but the floundering phoenix could yet rise from the flames.

"Central to the scheme is the reinstatement of the house and original outbuildings as a single dwelling, with substantial repair and reinstatement work to the buildings," the application said.

viable and sustainable use that provides certainty for the security of the listed building and gardens for the future."

"The house is now in a poor condition, it has suffered from vandalism, removal of original features and water damage through the roof.

"The water ingress has been halted by carrying out temporary repairs at roof level and is drying out, but the building is in a vulnerable condition.

"These proposals offer a

To enable the refurbishment and restoration of Woodlands Castle, the plans detail proposals for 18 new homes in the immediate and extended grounds.

Two muse houses would be built near where a fading and moulded marquee - home to so many happy memoriesnow sits.

Nine new houses would be built along the eastern boundary of the site, with seven more to the south of an

Open Evening on Thursday 26th September 2024 from 5 -7pm

access off Ruishton Lane.

And a 70-bed care home could also be built on the former castle estate, again near Ruishton Lane, though that part of the development is not included in the planning application.

Architect Prime

Meridian has set up a website detailing the proposals, which it says will "liberate funding for the restoration of Woodlands Castle".

"These proposals offer a viable and sustainable use that provides certainty for the

security of the listed building and gardens for the future," it added.

It said the plans, achieved through "extensive consultation", would be

"complimentary to the restored Woodlands Castle building", would "make a positive contribution to biodiversity" and bring about a "reduction in the impact of the previous events and wedding business" in traffic at the site.

A once-revered property could soon be heading back to the top of the most picturesque homes in Somerset list - and once again make many, many happy memories...

To view the full planning application, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search for reference 31/24/0009/ HYB.

We have also schedule open mornings…. 1st October | 8th October | 15th October | 22nd October from 9.00-10.30am

New services planned on plot near festival site

FRESH plans for a service station on a main route in and out of Shepton Mallet - and near the Glastonbury Festival site.

Proposals for a four-pump filling station, shop, alongside eight electric vehicle (EV) charging points and three jet wash bays on the site of the Gold Hand Car Wash, on the A37, were previously approved in June 2022.

Now, MBH Design Studio - on behalf of Motor Fuel Group Ltd - has submitted plans with an amended design of the shop building to Somerset Council.

The previous approved application outlined how the new petrol pumps would be open 24 hours a day, while the shop would open between 6am and 11pm each day.

The current filling station forecourt would be redeveloped, alongside construction of a new shop building, EV charging stations and jet wash bays.

The initial application, submitted by Savills, said the scheme would bring numerous

WOOD CARVING CLASSES

essential to a wide range of users.

“The proposal clearly benefits economic activity and extends the range of facilities available to local communities.

“The proposal is for economic development and will create approximately 14 full-time equivalent employment positions at a range of skill levels, as well as providing facilities to local communities that use the A37.

benefits to the area.

“The proposed development will enhance the local economy, increasing choice and competition within the local area,” it said. “It will also enhance the appearance of the existing site, and provide a service that is

“It is expected that that the majority of employment opportunities created will go to local residents.”

The A37 through Shepton Mallet is a popular route to the Glastonbury Festival from the north and east, with the site around four miles away.

The Pure Gold car wash, above, will be replaced by the new-look services

Pride sparkles in Glasto!

ORGANISERS have hailed a day of colour, passion and most importantly pride at an annual Glastonbury celebration.

The Intersex Pride Progress flag flew over the town hall for Glastonbury Pride 2024, which took place on July 28, celebrating the event’s theme of Unity Through Diversity.

Street entertainment ran throughout the day at Market Cross, including the Glastonbury Border Morris, who were joined by Molly No-Mates, Bristol’s premier queer, drag king Molly dancing team.

The lighting of a Unity Candle and a blessing from the priest of Antinous the Gay God officially opened the day.

Later, after some entertainment –including the Dragon Drummers – a pride procession saw the crowd take the handholds of the long rainbow Intercom Flag and follow Unity the Unicorn and the Unity Candle up the High Street, along Chilkwell Street, down Bere Lane, Fishers Hill and Magdelene Street, ending up at Benedict Street.

MP Sarah Dyke (Lib Dem, Glastonbury & Somerton) opened events

at the Bonaroo at Ben’s and visitors were treated to performances from singers and dancers, as well as two performers who travelled all the way from Plymouth to take part: Lady Shakira Diamond and Violent May.

Free food was provided by Eric and there were various stalls providing information and opportunities to support local LGBT+ businesses.

The raffle helped raise money for three charities – Mermaids, SWISH and Somerset 2BU – who have been sent £75 each.

“About 150 people attended in total and we would like to thank: the Queen of Cups for hosting the Pride brunch; St Benedict’s church for allowing us to use their venue for the second year for our Pride entertainment; all of the local businesses who donated raffle prizes; Unison for the use of the gazebo and the hire of the Intercom Flag; those who gave up their time to help in any way, and, of course, all of those who attended,” a spokesperson said.

However, organisers said the event had prompted some negative reactions online.

“The build up to this year’s Pride sadly attracted a lot more online opposition than in previous years, which reminds us that Pride is a protest and that we must continue to gather to have visibility and our voices heard, to stand in solidarity with oppressed LGBT+ people in other parts of the world and to continue to fight for equal rights and acceptance here, as well as to remain vigilant that the rights we already have are upheld. To this end, we look forward to Glastonbury Pride 2025,” the spokesperson added.

For more on the organisation, and how to get involved, visit www.facebook. com/glastonburypride.

Frome FC stadium plans delayed over funding

PLANS to upgrade the home of Frome Town FC have been pushed back until the end of the year amid delays in securing funding.

Earlier this year, the club submitted plans to replace and upgrade the changing rooms and first aid facilities, as well as renovating the clubhouse, at the Badgers Hill stadium.

However, despite the plans set to be determined at the end of September, the upgrades will not be able to take place until December due to delays in securing funding from the community ownership fund and the Football Foundation.

The club said the existing changing rooms are dilapidated and of poor construction, with plans to demolish these facilities and replace them with a new

purpose-built facilities.

Badgers Hill itself was secured as a community asset by Frome Town Council in 2022, who have since launched the Frome Town Community Benefit Society, which works closely with the council and club to explore how use of the ground could be developed.

Ahead of a meeting of the council last week, a report by the economic development and regeneration manager at the council, Peter Wheelhouse, said it had been

necessary to revise the upgrade plans so the club could make use of the existing changing room facilities ahead of the forthcoming season.

The report read: "The target date for completing the repair and improvement project has now moved to the end of December 2024. In response to these delays, it has been necessary to revise plans for the replacement of the changing rooms and first aid facilities to enable the football club to make use of the existing changing rooms during the early part of the forthcoming 2024/25 football season.

"Following consultation with

the club and the Frome Town Council Project Team, the Frome Town Community Benefit Society have decided that the new facilities will be located alongside the clubhouse.

"Other options were considered including a site close to the main vehicular entrance. But the selected option is considered to be most cost effective as it has the smallest footprint and will tie in with repairs to the clubhouse.

"There is a saving on demolition and enabling works. The new changing room/first aid block will also enable easy access to the clubhouse by players and officials and improve the appearance of the clubhouse as it will see the removal of the old turnstiles and Elliott building in this location."

Could Somerset landmarks be sold off to raise cash to save struggling council?

Market House in Taunton and the Cornhill in Bridgwater could be sold-off to plug an £80 million funding gap.

Members of Somerset Council's Corporate and Resources Scrutiny Committee agreed a provisional list of key sites which could be sold at a meeting on July 24, with a final decision expected to be made by the Executive on August 7.

Somerset Council needs to bridge an £80m funding gap in the current financial year and a £100m budget gap for 2025/2026.

Among the sites which could be sold off are The Market House in Taunton and the Cornhill in Bridgwater, which have a combined estimated capital receipt range of between £17m and £21m.

However, information relating to individual asset disposals remains confidential for commercial reasons.

Leader of Somerset Council, Cllr Bill Revans, is writing to the new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, highlighting the

challenges facing local councils and calling for urgent action to prioritise local government.

He is also requesting a meeting to discuss the crisis with the new Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Angela Rayner.

Cllr Revans said: “We have worked incredibly hard to reduce our spending and have never shied away from taking difficult decisions to find savings across all service areas.

“We’ve worked in partnership with city, town and parish councils to protect services and assets as far as possible but as this report shows we continue to face heart-breaking decisions that will have a

visible and lasting impact on our communities.”

Cllr Ros Wyke, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, said: “Somerset Council is committed to evaluation of and, where appropriate, rationalisation of its surplus property and land portfolio to reduce costs and ensure that the council's estate is financially sustainable.

“This drastic action is in response to the well documented financial emergency facing Somerset Council and the capitalisation direction approved by the former government which encouraged us to sell surplus property and assets, and use the capital receipts to fund essential services, like adults and children’s social care.”

Grade II* listed Market House, in The Parade, Taunton, was built around 1770 and is a focal point for the centre of the county town. It is currently home to a restaurant and the Visitor Centre.

Cornhill, also a centrepiece of the town centre, in Bridgwater.

Sites set to be sold off:

Land at Manor Farm, Lopen

The site, which could be used for development, is part of a larger farm. A total of 50 acres would be retained and let for farming, while agricultural buildings on the earmarked site could be sold.

Land at Evercreech

An affordable housing provider has been in talks with the council to potentially buy a site, which has not been detailed publicly. The developer would pay the council a fee, with the site sold once planning is secured.

Downs Farm, Donyatt

Another proposal which would see part of a council-owned farm sold off. This one could see the leaseholder purchase the farmstead, with the council retaining the freehold of the farmland.

Market House, Taunton

The proposals say the building will become "surplus" once funding for Visitor Services - hosted in Market House - is withdrawn. Taunton Town Council is in talks with the council regarding the provision of services in the future, while the building would be sold on the open market.

Unit 4, Blackdown Business Park, Wellington

With a tenant in situ, the council proposes to dispose of the unit by auction.

Roughmoor Enterprise Centre, Williton

Comprising 15 small units, let to a number of tenants, the council plans to sell the site by auction.

Yeovil Small Business Centre

Formerly owned by South Somerset District Council, this former military building s a commercial asset and would be sold on the open market.

Land at Splatt, Spaxton

Planning has been secured on farm buildings, while the house and farm buildings have also been sold. However, 87 acres of land still owned by the council is set to be sold on the open market.

Land at Thorne Marsh, Castle Cary

The farmhouse is no longer owned by the council, though around 92 acres of land is, which could be sold on the open market.

Land at Forton, Chard

Around 92 acres on the edge of

the town is currently rented and could be sold on the open market.

Leaze Farm, Lympsham

A farmhouse and buildings are set to be returned to the council once a lease expires, and would be sold on the open market, with most land retained.

Cornhill, Bridgwater

The Grade I listed buildingleased to Pizza Express - as well as the indoor market would be sold on the open market, although talks are ongoing with Bridgwater Town Council.

C Block, County Hall, Taunton

Part of the former county council complex in the county town, the block could be sold to a developer.

Firepool

Part of the controversial site in Taunton - north of Canal Way - is "considered ready for disposal". Identified in the area masterplan as 'student accommodation', it could be sold off.

Fiveways Resource Centre, Wellington Home to Wellington Library on a temporary basis, the building is

then set to become vacant. It is earmarked for sale to a developer, potentially by auction.

Boden Mill, Chard

A former lace factory dating from around 1820, a Grade II listed building is part of the site, off Silver Street. Various redevelopment schemes have stalled and the council could dispose of the site.

Boden Centre, Chard

Made up of a two-storey building, the centre currently has tenants and could be disposed of.

Land at Ash, Martock

Two parcels of land, near the Hill View School, could be sold on the open market.

11 South Street, Wiveliscombe

Formerly the Caretakers House of Kingsmead School, the property is now vacant and could be sold on the open market.

Mary Street Car Park, Taunton

The small multi-storey car park in the town centre is considered surplus to requirements and could be redeveloped for housing. Planning advice is being sought.

£.5.4m plan for hall and theatre

BRIDGWATER’S Town Hall and the adjacent theatre is set to be “revitalised” to the tune of £5.4 million after town councillors unanimously approved the business plan.

To help pay for the upgrade, a £3.9m loan application will be submitted which Bridgwater Town Council says will be offset from new income regeneration after the venue is re-launched.

Around £900,000 has been secured through the town deal funding, which is money provided from government that looks to improve the town with projects such as this and the formation of the Celebration Mile.

The Grade II listed building has long been in need of refurbishment with the building’s outdated features and lack of accessibility preventing the public from

visiting the site.

Councillor Brian Smedley, leader of Bridgwater Town Council said: “This is an incredibly exciting project and could really put Bridgwater on the map as a cultural destination. We are committed to retaining the heritage of Bridgwater, whilst also providing something that the community can be proud of."

Key upgrades and enhancements provided by the town deal funding:

Auditorium enhancements: The theatre’s seating, backstage facilities, and rehearsal spaces will undergo significant improvements

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Cutting-edge technology: State-of-the-art sound systems and projection capabilities elevate performances, making the theatre a versatile venue for various events.

Changing rooms enhancements: Significant work is underway within the dressing rooms, with increased size of the dressing rooms and eradicating of damp within these rooms and installation of new WC and shower facilities to provide a first-class experience to acts and cast members.

Accessibility: A new lift installation ensures that everyone can access the enriching experiences at the theatre.

Key upgrades and enhancements provided by other funding streams: Façade: Deep cleaning of all masonry and required repairs, full repainting of

masonry (the white part of the site), repair and repainting of sash windows, replacement of the metal Crittall windows with new timber frames and double glazing in the 1950s part of the site.

Climate measures: Installation of Solar Photovoltaic Cells on the roof and insulation of roof voids and the removal of gas central heating and replacement of electrical heating and hot water supply.

Opportunity to create space: Additional space will be created by the remodelling of existing spaces, with remodelling of dormant offices, corridors, and WCs. The creation of a new Atrium to infill one of the underutilised courtyards and building of an additional conference room near the theatre adds more space and connects all the areas together

acting as the central core of the building.

The council says the investment will allow them to unlock economic growth for the high street area.

Cllr Tim Mander, chair of the Amenities Committee, said: “This is an incredibly exciting project which will help revitalise and reenergise this part of the High Street."

David Mears, town clerk and CEO, added: “This significant investment marks a pivotal moment for our community, as it will not only preserve the historical essence of our Town Hall but also transform it into a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike."

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Window work shuts Ilminster venue

THE windows at Ilminster Arts Centre are being boarded up – but have no fear, it is not closing down!

Work is underway to restore the 120-year-old historic stained-glass window, which has been a significant feature of the building since its installation in 1901.

Recent winter storms left the window – which commemorates artist William Blake – in a precarious state, prompting the commissioning of work to ensure it remains in place at the heart of the popular venue.

Ilminster Arts Centre has been a cornerstone of the community since its founding in 1995 by artist and illustrator Mary Atherton and her husband, Jim.

Located in the historic Meeting House, a former Unitarian chapel built in 1718-19, the venue is now a registered charity.

Over the years, the building has undergone various transformations, reflecting its evolving role in the community – from a small chapel to a bustling town facility with a full junior school.

“The restoration of the stained glass window is part of our ongoing commitment to preserving the rich heritage of the Ilminster Arts Centre,” a venue spokesperson said.

“Our building, privately owned and leased to us, houses not only our vibrant arts programs but also our charming boutique shop, located in an alcove where the church organ was once housed.”

However, the work means the window will be boarded up during the process, which will see expert craftspeople ensuring the window’s intricate details and historical value are preserved.

“We invite the community to join us in celebrating the preservation of this treasured artifact,” the spokesperson added.

“The restoration is expected to be completed within the coming months, and we look forward to unveiling the newly restored window in all its glory.”

For more information about the restoration project, or to learn how you can support Ilminster Arts Centre, email info@ilminsterarts.com or call 01460 54973.

Water way to help cemetery efforts!

AN effort to reverse “decades of neglect” at a Bridgwater cemetery got a boost when a dozen volunteers turned out to help.

The Friends of the Wembdon Road Cemetery has been working to restore the historic Bridgwater burial ground over a number of years.

And last month, they got a boost when Wessex Water employees, pictured, helped out for a day.

It came as part of an initiative at the water firm, which sees a day dedicated to staff supporting charities and causes.

This year, they chose to lend a hand to the Friends of the Cemetery, a group formed in 2010 with the mission of reversing decades of neglect at the disused burial ground.

Opposite the Quantock and Turner’s Optometrists, the Friends’ small team of volunteers have been steadily working each Sunday to cut back weeds, repair memorials, and restore the dignity to this peaceful community green space.

“With their numbers small and the cemetery large, the group eagerly welcomed the 12-strong Wessex Water

team,” a spokesperson said.

“Equipped with a variety of gardening tools and plenty of drinking water, the volunteers tackled the overgrown grounds with gusto.

“Their cheerful and determined efforts saw them trimming hedgerows, tidying shrubs and trees, and removing ivy from memorials.”

More than 40 dumpy bags of branches, brambles, and ivy were filled.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Wessex Water volunteers for their hard work and enthusiasm,” the spokesperson

added. “Their help has made a significant difference, and we cannot thank them enough.”

Paul Elson, volunteer team leader from Wessex Water, said it “was an absolute pleasure in volunteering to help the Friends of Wembdon Cemetery”.

“With the summer weather now finally upon us sites do tend to get overgrown rapidly in change of weather,” he added.

“It was great to hear about the history of the site and to make a contribution to helping to maintain such a beautiful area.”

Concerns over plan for 650-homes, care home and school in Wincanton

PLANS for up to 650 homes, shops and more on a 66-hectare site in west Wincanton have been submitted – prompting anger from some residents.

The scheme, submitted by Origin3 on behalf of Hook Valley LVA LLP, also includes plans to demolish agricultural buildings on the Lawrence Hill site, with a care home, primary school/nursery and shops built alongside the homes.

Accesses from West Hill and Lawrence Hill would also be built as part of the plans, alongside a new pedestrian and cycle route.

A plan for around 200

homes in the area, submitted to South Somerset District Council in 2019, was refused, as the site was not in the authority’s local plan, and would harm the landscape.

However, the new application said these plans were different and that “many more significant benefits”

“demonstrably outweigh any adverse impacts”.

The application outlines plans for up to 650 new homes, with 35% of them counted as ‘affordable housing’, along with a 60-bed care home, a ‘local centre’ which could include a convenience store and café, a primary school, as well as a

60-place nursery/pre-school facility.

Around 2.2 hectares of the site would be allocated to ‘land for employment’, it added.

“Somerset Council has confirmed the two primary schools in Wincanton are at capacity and unable to accommodate any further expansion, hence a new primary school and a 60-place nursery will be required,” it said.

It added: “Latest forecasts indicate there are currently sufficient places in King Arthur’s Community College to accommodate secondary pupils from the proposed

development.”

Access to the development would come from five points, the application said, including a new access off the Anchor Hill Roundabout, two priority junctions north and south of Lawrence Hill and two priority junctions on West Hill.

More than half of the development site would be used for “green infrastructure”, the plans said, including public open spaces, children’s play areas and “space for teenagers” including a multi-use games area, and allotments and community orchards.

A host of objections to the

Clinics in Wells and Midsomer Norton.

plans have been submitted, including concerns over health provision in the town and the development of green space.

Marion Tibbett, of Blackford, said: “The assumptions on which the application is based do not hold up when considered against the success (or not) of existing facilities and infrastructure (for example Health Centre, schools, roads).

“The Health Centre in particular is operating at maximum capacity with a much reduced staff from that in place in recent years, clear difficulties in recruiting.

“If the development is being considered for approval despite the overwhelming level of local objection, stringent constraints on developer supplied infrastructure must be applied.”

Tyler Dix, of Wincanton, wrote: “Poor quality, too many houses, poor planning, built for profit and to tick a box. Pure greed.

“There’s plenty of unused buildings all over Wincanton which should be developed first.”

Ross Murray, of Wincanton, was among few comments in support of the scheme.

“I think the proposal is sound, however, the developer must be held to account on building supporting infrastructure like schooling and primary healthcare,” they said.

“I would also like to see a developer in this area offering homes under the First Home scheme in partnership with the council.”

People can comment on the application at somerset. gov.uk, reference 24/01257/ OUT.

A representation of how the development could be laid out

Crews tackle Glasto house fire

FOUR fire crews were sent to a home in Glastonbury after a waste bin caught fire in a bedroom.

Crews from Glastonbury, Bridgwater, Street and Wells were sent to the scene, in Park Terrace, at just after 5am on Tuesday, August 6.

A Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Upon arrival, the residents had

Warning over car park scams

SCAMMERS are trying to dupe drivers in Somerset car parks.

Somerset Council has warned motorists to be on their guard against a QR code scam being operated at sites in the county.

QR codes are square images – made up of black blocks on a white background – that, when scanned using the camera on a phone, take the phone to a website.

However, the council said stickers are being placed on machines in some council-run car parks which take people through to fake websites.

It said staff are removing any stickers found on machines in the county “as quickly as possible to avoid any further scams”.

The council reminded people paying for parking using their phone to use only one of the following trusted payment methods:

• Download the PayByPhone app directly from the App Store or Google Play Store.

• Visit the website by entering www.PayByPhone.co.uk directly into the search bar.

• Dial 0330 400 7275 to use the automated phone line.

“Please do not scan any QR codes and only use trusted websites,” a spokesperson said.

“Our team is removing fraudulent stickers QR code as quickly as possible to avoid any further scams.

“PayByPhone has a very secure system for online payments for customers using the correct apps and payment methods.

“It is understood a very small number of scams have taken place due to a fraudulent QR code. Please stay vigilant and safe.”

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Lead Member for Transport and Digital, added: “Stay safe and if unsure use another form of payment such as a trusted app. If you see any fraudulent QR codes, then please report it to Somerset Council parking 01823 219035 or the police by calling 101.”

evacuated the property and fire crews got to work extinguishing the fire which was located in one of the bedrooms.

They said the fire was contained to a waste bin within the bedroom and the cause of fire was believed to be accidental.

Crews returned to stations and the incident dealt with by around 6.20am.

Youngsters getting creative with clay!

MORE than 100 youngsters at a Somerset school got creative with clay during a special event.

On July 4, as the country headed to the polls to shape the next five years in the general election, pupils at Countess Gytha Primary School, in Queen Camel, took to shaping clay during pottery workshops.

Around 140 young people from years 1 to 6 took part in the classes, run by local George Sutton, a recent Art History Graduate.

Each participant went away with their very own creation - and an appreciation of what it takes to create with clay.

The project was facilitated and funded by the Mid Somerset Arts Society, based in Castle Cary.

The Society’s Young Arts initiative promotes high-

quality arts activities for young people.

It was also made possible through the generosity of Queen Camel potter and teacher, Douglas Phillipshimself a former pupil at Countess Gytha - who donated the locally-sourced clay and who will be firing the pinch-pots to be returned to the older pupils after the

summer holiday.

Year 6 teacher, Toby Gallagher, said: "The children enjoyed sculpting and creating their own designs with the clay, showing great artistic flair with their fantastic work.

"We absolutely loved having George and would

welcome him back."

George was likewise enthusiastic about the day’s workshops and is now set to train as an art teacher to continue to use his skills and talents in education.

George Sutton ran sessions for 140 youngsters at Countess Gytha

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Quick news... Plan for new soft play centre

Extended opening hours at Clarks

CLARKS Village is going to be open longer this summer.

Opening hours are being extended at the Street outlet village.

The new opening hours will be:

• Monday to Saturday (excluding Thursday): 9am-7pm

• Thursday late-night shopping: 9am-8pm

• Sunday: 10am-5pm with larger stores open from 11am

Eateries - including the likes of Pizza Express, Prezzo and Slim Chickens - will also stay open later.

Wagamama opened at the outlet on July 22 (see p64).

Clarks Village will also host its first open-air Summer Cinema, with three screenings per day untl August 18.

ASOFT play centre could be developed between Taunton and Bridgwater if plans are approved.

An application by Sarah Palmer has been submitted to Somerset Council to develop the attraction at Units 6 and 7 at Drakes Yard, Durston, pictured, off the A361 near Taunton.

Currently used for potato storage, the application seeks permission to change that use for a soft play centre.

The scheme is described as potentially including a "sports area, a car track area, a passive role play area, and reading area".

"The project will be developed with a product mix and service ethic to ensure differentiation to other play facilities ensuring a unique and iconic offering," the application said.

"The facility will be

available for children’s parties and pay and play sessions.

"Use by children with special needs has been considered in the development plan for this project and the whole facility will be compliant with the 2010 Equality Act."Meanwhile, "non-alcoholic hot and cold drinks will be available, together with light meals and snacks", it said.

"The facility will provide a multi-faceted play environment for children, which will encourage exercise, thought and interaction with other children

in the play process," the application added.

"Additionally, the design ethic of the play equipment is to provide features which encourage children to undertake the full range of activities generally undertaken in physical play while facilitating problem solving and enabling children to explore and learn for themselves.

"This encouragement in physical play will implicitly contribute to increasing the physical activity of children visiting the facility and therefore implicitly provide a benefit to health.

"Additionally, the design ethic encourages inclusion. Children with special needs can use the facility with appropriate supervision."

For more details, and to comment on the plans, see somerset.gov.uk, application reference 16/24/0001.

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Make every penny count!

WESTON-super-Mare man is encouraging people to save old milk or cordial bottles and fill it with loose change as a way to give back to a charity which provides vital help for blind veterans.

John Brice heard people were now throwing away their pennies instead of keeping them and he is now asking for people to put aside their spare change to donate to Blind Veterans UK – a charity which has provided John “life-changing” support.

The 77-year-old said: “Money is tight for so many people right now, so I was wracking my brain to think what people could do to support blind veterans that won’t cost a lot?

“Everyone has a milk carton, so I thought, let’s use it. Some time ago I remember the national news reporting that some people were discarding their 1p and 2p coins.

“Discarding them into our containers is a much better idea.

“I’ve decorated a label to stick on my milk carton and when visitors come to my home they will ask ‘What is that?’,

it’ll become a talking point and hopefully they will start to feed it too and maybe even decorate their own milk carton in their home.

“Every penny counts these days and if we work together those pennies will make pounds.”

John joined the RAF in 1962 at the age of 15 and a half as a boy entrant, serving for more than 26 years as a cook and then a catering clerk in the UK, Middle East, Ascension Island and North Africa before he was discharged with the rank of sergeant in 1988.

He lost his sight in 2006 due to age-related macular degeneration.

“I can remember the consultant appointment so clearly, she said I’d lose my central vision and all I heard was ‘You’re going to lose your sight in both of your eyes’," he said.

“I stood outside the hospital stunned and thought to myself, 'How the devil will I survive this?'.”

and spotted a leaflet for our charity and applied for support.

He said: “The year I began receiving support from Blind Veterans UK was life changing.

"I was lacking in confidence; I attended an introduction week at one of their centres and remember thinking that everyone else around me was so happy.

“With the support and encouragement of staff and my fellow blind veterans, I soon realised I could still do a million and one things I didn’t think were possible."

Some time later, John started to volunteer for Vision North Somerset. He was based at the hospital, chatting to people going to their eye appointments

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John hopes others will join him in donating their loose change to our charity and decorating their own plastic milk bottles.

See www.blindveterans.org.uk.

VIPs see amazing festival care for themselves at Glastonbury

VIPs turned out at the Glastonbury Festival to thank volunteers who helped save lives at the event.

Festival Medical Services provides medical support at Worthy Farm throughout the gathering, which sees more than 200,000 people descend on the Somerset countryside.

Among those to visit the high-tech facilities on offer at the site were

FMS patron Annie Maw, a former Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, who led a group of Somerset friends around, including the new Dean of Wells Cathedral, the Very Revd Toby Wright.

FMS chair Nich Woolf and chief executive, Dr Chris Howes, from Croscombe, near Wells, also hosted Somerset’s High Sheriff, Rob Beckley.

Professor Dame Jenny Harries –known to millions from her television appearances during the Covid pandemic - also visited FMS at Glastonbury in her capacity as chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency.

Local government and the NHS were involved too, with visits from Somerset Council chief executive Duncan Sharkey, South West Ambulance Trust chief executive Dr John Martin, and from NHS England’s Professor Julian Redhead, national clinical director for integrated urgent and emergency care, and Dr Michael Marsh, South West Region Chief Medical Officer.

Festival Medical Services (FMS) was founded at Glastonbury in 1979 and its doctors, nurses, healthcare professionals and support staff offer a full on-site emergency medical service, plus other healthcare services such as dentistry,

podiatry, physiotherapy and mental healthcare.

They pride themselves on how many patients they are able to treat on-site at events and how few need to be transferred to hospital.

At the 2024 festival which ran from June 26 to 30 - as well as before and after for crew and site workers - the charity treated more than 3,500 people, with 51 being sent on to hospital.

As well as funding itself, FMS also raises money for medical projects in the UK and abroad. It has raised nearly £1.5 million pounds altogether and last year donated more than £200,000 to other good causes.

to see the huge range of services they offer – free of charge – to patients at Glastonbury Festival.

"I’m pleased to say they were all very impressed – one of them made an immediate donation to pay for one of the trauma boxes that FMS are currently sending out to Ukraine.

Mrs Maw, who is a wheelchair user, said: "Since I became Patron of Festival Medical Services last year I have wanted to spread the word about how marvellous and dedicated they are and how much important work they do.

"Of course, everyone who goes to Glastonbury Festival, or any other of the many outdoor events they cover, plans to have a marvellous time and never need to see a doctor or a nurse, but life isn’t always like that.

"And what is so wonderful is to know that if you do fall ill or have an accident, these great people are there to help you and give you an amazing standard of care – the same as you will receive in any hospital or surgery – just in the middle of a field – it’s incredible.

"I really wanted to take a group of people to meet them, to thank them, and

"And they all just really wanted to say thank you to the doctors, nurses and other health care teams who all give their time so willingly to help others stay well and have fun."

Last month, Mrs Maw climbed Glastonbury Tor in a wheelchair in a huge fundraising “push” for FMS.

She had never before been to the top of the 158-metre (518 foot) iconic landmark – even before she had her horse-riding accident in 2002 which led to her becoming a wheelchair-user.

She has so far raised more than £16,000 which is being split between charities Motivation and Humanity & Inclusion.

Motivation is an international disability and inclusion charity, based in Bristol. They provide wheelchairs, training and support to empower disabled people in Africa and India to gain independence, improve their confidence and transform their own lives.

Humanity & Inclusion work alongside disabled and vulnerable people –particularly in countries affected by conflict, natural disaster and poverty.

See justgiving.com/campaign/ access-all-areas.

FMS patron Annie Maw with VIPs at Glastonbury, above, and below, High Sheriff of Somerset Rob Beckley, second from right

'Come on Somerset, be safer on the road...'

ONE of the many reasons my wife and I love Somerset is the feeling we are distant from other parts of the world.

However, this is not always a good thing.

An area I think this is clear is on the road.

Is it just in Somerset that people don't seem to think the rules of the road apply to them?

Some people really do take the notion of a 'boy racer' to the extreme, driving at ludicrous speeds on roads that really aren't suitable for such antics.

I know the police are stretched, and I welcome the appearance of signs indicating just how fast people are going (as many seem to slam on the brakes when they see them), but something really should be done.

An excellent House of Commons Library tool allows people to check the number of road casualties, and for Somerset it makes for depressing reading.

In 2022, the latest year recorded in the model, in the Glastonbury & Somerton

constituency, it shows there were 154 total casualties on the road, with two people killed. In Yeovil, there were 160 reported casualties and four deaths, and in Taunton & Wellington there were thankully no deaths, but 166 casualties in crashes.

Come on good people of Somerset, we need to do better in our roads and keep everyone safe.

NAME & ADDRESS SUPPLIED

Spending plans

SOMETHING needs to be done about how people at the council spend money.

Just this week, I've read about a silly decision over the Saxonvale development site in Frome, and Bridgwater Town Council having to take over their own CCTV services (which we will all end up paying for).

We are told again and again there is no money, yet we pay more and more council tax. But if you try to get a bus anywhere, you can't! Where has the money gone?

The NHS is falling apart, I've lost count of the number

of potholes I have to avoid on my way to work each day, despite paying more and more tax every year.

I think it must all be going on roadworks because you can't go anywhere without stopping three or four times at temporary traffic lights, but when they go, nothing has changed, so lord knows what work they're doing, even if there is someone there.

Times are tough, but surely there must be a better way of doing things than whatever is happening at the moment, which is not working. J DOWNS via email

It's no joke

IWAS

sad to read about the struggles of the new Somerset Comedy Festival ('Shows off amid comedy fest cash crisis', July 2024).

I wonder if anything can be learnt from the excellent festival that runs in Wells each year and has lots of big names?

Festivals seem so difficult to make work in the current financial climate, it might be that Somerset just isn't big

enough for two.

I wish the organisers all the best though, because anything that brings people to the county, and that we can all enjoy, is to be appluaded.

STEVE JENKINS Weston

Blooming

great! IWANTED to write to say how wonderful my visiting family found the Taunton Flower Show at the weekend.

There was something for all of us, kids included, and we spent the whole day taking everything in.

The children particularly enjoyed the falcons and the motorbikes, while the floral competition entries were a joy to see for a humble amateur like me, and the Monkton Elm display was stunning! Congratulations to all involved in putting that together!

I had never been before and was very impressed, so will keep an eye out for details next year.

Well done all involved, you should be very proud.

MS J THOMAS Taunton

Send your letters by email to newsdesk@somersetleveller.co.uk

Sky Diary with Paul Adamson

MOON PHASES

Full Moon: August 19 / Last Qtr August 26

New Moon: September 3 / First Qtr September 11

PLANETS

Venus can be seen low in the west at sunset. Jupiter and Mars can be seen together on August 15 in what is known as a close conjunction. On August 21 Saturn disappears behind the moon at 4.28am then on September 8 Saturn is at opposition that is opposite the sun at midnight and visible all night.

CONSTELLATION

As we move into September the Great

Square of Pegasus is due south late evening. The four stars which form the square include an interloper as the star in the top left hand corner belongs to the neighbouring constellation of Andromeda. The number of stars seen within the square are a good indication of your level of dark sky conditions or light pollution.

CELESTIAL EVENTS

The elusive planet Mercury has its best morning show during the first two weeks of September low in the East before dawn.

Meet on the last Wednesday of the month, except December, in Othery. Contact somersetlevelsstargazers@ hotmail.com for details.

Take the train - and a trip back in time to Somerset of yesteryear...

PEOPLE of a certain age, while standing on a station platform waiting for a train, may well cast their minds back to a different time.

Now, thanks to the new Great Western Approaches Revisited initiative, those in the West Country can literally do exactly that, using the latest technology to step back

into the history of the railway and the communities it serves.

QR codes - which can be scanned using a smartphone - have been posted on station platforms across Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset which will take people to a revisited series of films telling the story of rail journeys of yesteryear.

The codes can be used to

view an archive film project by the Windrose Rural Media Trust.

Revamped films have been created - inspired by an old film called Great Western Approaches, made in 1936 and still available, which took viewers on a journey to the sun.

Windrose director, Trevor Bailey, said: “Long ago, the Great Western Railway saw the potential of film to promote its trains and the places they served.

“It has an extraordinary heritage and the modern GWR is proud to link past glories with today’s progress.”

Windrose has used footage from 1909 to the 1990s to craft short films relevant to 24 stations across seven routes.

They are:

• Westbury to Salisbury

• Westbury to Weymouth

• Westbury to Bath

• Westbury to Swindon

• Westbury to Bedwyn

• Westbury to Taunton

• Taunton to Bristol

Each film explores life as it used to be, allowing customers to travel into the past.

Windrose Rural Media Trust is a Dorset-based charity which uses the media –television, radio and the internet – to portray the past of rural communities in the south west and to give them a voice in the present day.

Mr Bailey said: “We have a massive film archive of life in Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire, which has largely been digitised, and we’ve drawn on this to provide providing a companion for people on their train journeys – a window into the past of the places served by stations on seven GWR routes.

A picture from Taunton carnival in years gone by and, below left, the QR codes are on station platforms across the south west

“By scanning a QR code, viewers can select the route and station of their choice and find themselves in the past life of that community. It may be a livestock market in the 1930s, daily street scenes in the 1910s, a long-closed railway line, seaside holidays in the 1950s and much, much more.

“These moving images are the nearest thing to living history that exists.”

The Great Western Approaches Revisited project was unveiled at Westbury station and has been made possible by a grant from

GWR’s Customer and Community Improvement Fund.

The fund is designed to support small and medium rail-related projects that can be completed over the course of the financial year.

GWR business assurance and strategy director, Joe Graham, said: “The Customer and Community Improvement Fund is a fantastic opportunity for us to invest in projects that really make a difference to our customers and communities at a local level.

The films feature footage of, clockwise from top left; Taunton, Frome, Weston and Yeovil, as well as many other parts of the South West from yesteryear

Pictures: GWR

WH Smith in Street to close in early 2025

STATIONERY

giant WH Smith has confirmed it “expects” to close it’s store in Street at the start of next year.

Though the retailer said it remains in discussions with the landlord of the High Street shop, it was unlikely to continue trading far into 2025.

A spokesperson said: “Regrettably, it is not sustainable for us to continue trading in this location.

“We remain in discussion with our landlord, however we expect our store in Street to close in early 2025.”

The branch includes a Post Office counter, which would also close if WH Smith shut.

A vacancy for a franchisee to provide Post Office services in the town is now being advertised by the firm.

“Post Office Ltd is looking for a successful retailer to incorporate a Post Office Main into their existing or proposed business,” the listing said.

CCTV appeal after attack in Wellington pub garden

POLICE have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with an alleged homophobic hate crime in Wellington.

A person is alleged to have made homophobic comments towards the victim, in their 20s, in the garden of a pub in Fore Street at around 1.10am on July 6 before punching them in the face.

their enquiries.

The victim sought medical attention for bruising and swelling to their face and they are now recovering at home.

Officers believe that the man pictured may have information which could aid

The man is described as white, approximately 6ft 1ins tall, in his late 20s, with short, dark hair and stubble.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 and quote reference 5224175238.

Legal hope for mortgage prisoners

FO WHEN the global financial crash hit in 2008, images of people queueing to withdraw their money from struggling Northern Rock dominated the front pages.

The bank was eventually rescued in a government takeover – and the pictures faded from our minds and from the news.

However, behind the walls of Northern Rock branches, in files around the country, lay thousands of people who took out mortgages with the lender.

They were left in limbo, unclear on what was happening to their deal – and their homes.

Eventually, an estimated 200,000 mortgages held by Northern Rock were sold by the government, often to inactive lenders – and often at increased interest rates.

For many of those mortgage holders, the financial crisis has not gone away.

After the crash, the criteria for lenders handing out mortgages changed, becoming stricter in a bid to avoid landing people with unaffordable debt. But those who already had mortgages, were stuck with the deal they were handed after the bank’s collapse as they couldn’t move their mortgage, for they no longer satisfied new lending criteria.

They became mortgage prisoners, stuck paying higher rates, through no fault of their own.

Retired serviceman David Riley, pictured, was among them.

In 2006, the 76-year-old former Royal Navy aircraft electrician bought a fivebedroom house in Martock, securing a £200,000 mortgage with Northern Rock.

But after the lender collapsed, his mortgage was eventually transferred by the government to TSB Whistletree at the end of 2015 – and he ended up being trapped into paying above the market rate for his mortgage.

Mr Riley is one of around 2,500 TSB Whistletree mortgage holders who is being represented by law firm Harcus Parker during a recent High Court trial.

Harcus Parker says they have been unfairly exploited

since 2016, forced to pay an additional 2.29% compared to the bank’s standard variable mortgage rate.

If the no-win, no-fee group legal claim is successful, Harcus Parker expects the average claim to be between £20,000 and £30,000.

Mr Riley is calculated to receive about £27,000.

After Northern Rock’s collapse, and his 2012

divorce, the Somerset resident struggled to keep up with his mortgage repayments.

Eventually, he found himself in negative equity to the tune of more than £3,000 when he finally sold the house earlier this year, and now lives in a nearby one-bedroom rented flat.

“I paid all that money and got nothing for it,” he said.

Mr Riley’s repayments rose from £850 a month to £1,200 in the months before he sold the house, and he spoke of the stress of coping with the costs after a bowel cancer diagnosis six years ago.

A spokesperson for TSB said: “This is a hearing for the court to determine some specific issues that have been raised as part of Harcus Parker’s legal action relating to Whistletree mortgage terms and conditions, in advance of any final trial.”

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We regularly host exhibitions by up and coming artists, join our mailing list to be kept informed of future events www.bluecedarprintworks.co.uk

Woman in her 80s 'cries daily' after New Year's Eve robbery in the street

BRIDGWATER man Cory Farrar has been jailed after robbing a woman in her 80s after she did her shopping on New Year's Eve.

The incident, in Puriton, unfolded after Farrar, pictured, watched the victim do her shopping on New Year’s Eve in 2022.

As she left the store, he followed her to Riverton Road where the 27-year-old snatched her bag of groceries and purse containing cash and bank cards, causing her to fall onto the floor.

He was identified following CCTV enquiries and witness accounts and was arrested the following morning.

Farrar was subsequently charged with robbery and he pleaded guilty in May.

He was sentenced to three

years in prison when he appeared at Taunton Crown Court on Thursday, July 18.

In her victim personal statement read out in court, the victim said the incident had had a “huge” impact on her health and that she would now no longer leave her home alone.

She said: “I have been so stressed. I cannot remember the male’s face which taunts me every day.

"I am constantly looking over my shoulder, worried that he is near. My mental health has declined since the incident, and I can no longer see a future."

She added: "I cannot forgive the male that I now know to be Cory Farrar for this. He has taken so much from me and it is unforgiveable.

St Dunstan’s School

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"I pray every night for justice, not just for me but for my family. They are so worried about me and I feel that I am a burden to them as I cannot go about my daily life without them.

"I just want my life back. I want to be the person I was before December 31, 2022.

"I haven’t bounced back and I want nothing more than to not cry daily and return to some type of normality."

glad that we have been able to secure justice for her in court.

DC Redine Carter, investigating officer for Avon & Somerset Police, said: "This incident has had an enormous impact on the victim and her family and I’m

"She has spoken incredibly bravely about the effect this incident has had on her life over the last 19 months and I hope this prison sentence will allow her to return to some sort of normality."

Have your say on bus station plans

AMAJOR revamp of Taunton’s former bus station is on the cards and people are being asked what they would like to see at the new transport hub.

The redevelopment of the site – which is being funded by government money – would provide a new lease of life as a vital transport interchange under new proposals and forms part of wider regeneration plans for Taunton.

Proposals include six bus stops in total with two coach stops located along Castle Way, layover bays to provide a dedicated area for buses during layover periods to prevent buses being parked around the town, an indoor waiting room with toilets and a changing places toilet facility with a dedicated accessible parking bay.

The hub is part of Somerset’s Bus Service Improvement plan and will offer a range of modern and sustainable transport options, including bus, coach, and bike parking.

It will also feature attractive public spaces, green areas, as well as links to the town centre and the River Tone.

An online survey has been launched by Somerset Council to gather people’s views on the plans. The survey ends in September.

Somerset Council’s lead member for transport and digital, Councillor Richard Wilkins, said: “We would urge people to get involved with the survey and take a look at the plans – please tell us what sort of facilities you’d like to see.

“The transport hub is a really welcome development for bus users and those wishing to cycle or walk in Taunton.

“One of our key aims within the Taunton Garden Town Vision is to offer more transport options and by doing so reduce car dependency with increased bus service patronage, helping to create a greener, cleaner town centre.”

He said the proposal aims to improve transport links in the town, making it easier and more attractive to use public transport and/or walking and cycling, in line with Taunton’s Garden Town Vision.

Take part in the survey by visiting https://shorturl.at/80bFM.

The Langport Saturday Markets

Local Food - 7th September and the first Saturday of every month until Dec

Vintage - 14th September and the second Saturday of every month until Dec

Artisans (New) - 21st September and the third Saturday of every month until Dec

Cider-making family enjoys the taste of success with national recognition

by PAUL JONES paul@blackmorevale.net

ACIDER produced on a farm near Langport has achieved national recognition with two prestigious accolades.

Artisan producer Harry's Cider, based at Long Sutton, has been producing cider for five generations.

And the brand's Original Cider and Harry’s Dabinett Cider picked up accolades at the recent Great Taste Awards – the world’s largest food and drink accreditation scheme.

Judges described the Original as having “a well rounded flavour rich with the apples used and a good smooth finish” as well as being “well balanced with the bittersweet notes and refreshing on the palate”.

Meanwhile, praise for the Dabinett included that it was “a deceptively simple, clean and clear delivery of Dabinett character. The aroma is gently fruity, the palate lightly effervescent”.

Judges added it was “easily enjoyable” and “a cider that people will be comfortable with”.

As well as that recognition, Harry’s Cider has also been shortlisted in this year’s British Farming Awards, for the Family Farming Business of the Year Award.

Organised by industry publication, Farmers Guardian, the awards celebrate pioneering farmers across all sectors who are leading in areas of technology, science, food production and sustainability.

The British Farming Awards received a record-breaking number of entries and nominations this year, with the awards ceremony taking place on October 17 in Birmingham.

Alison Chapman, from Harry’s Cider, said: "These latest awards and the shortlisting are a real boost for us all.

"It really is an outstanding achievement for a family-run artisan producer to be recognised at a national level – not once but twice at the bestknown consumer food and drink awards and then again with our shortlisting at the

agricultural industry’s British Farming Awards.

"This recognition for the hard work and commitment of our dedicated team is a great encouragement, as well as bringing a new mark of quality to our business.

"We strive to achieve the best in everything we do and are extremely proud of these prestigious endorsements. A good reason to celebrate."

Harry’s Cider is produced by Harry and his son Toby on the family farm, with Alison heading up the commercial arm of the business.

The whole family is involved in the wider business activity, particularly at events held at the cider farm and local agricultural shows.

Regular cider tours and tastings are held throughout the year at the farm, giving locals and tourists an opportunity to enjoy an orchard walk, learn about the cider-making process and sample some of their award-winning ciders.

Tickets can be booked online via www.harryscidercompany.co.uk.

The Harry’s Cider family, from left: Jess, Alison, Harry, Lizzie, Toby, and below inset, the two ciders that have received national recognition

Carpetright stores to close - but Yeovil and Weston branches are saved

MORE than 200 Carpetright stores are set to close –including in Taunton, Glastonbury and Frome – as part of a deal which saw the struggling firm bought by rival, Tapi.

Last week, it emerged Carpetright was on the verge of administration, with up to 1,800 jobs at risk.

It has since been confirmed flooring firm Tapi has agreed to purchase 54 of the brand’s stores and two warehouses –including in Yeovil and Weston – as well as the brand itself and its intellectual property.

Carpetright in Taunton is one of the branches to go

Dorchester, Frome, Glastonbury, Poole, Salisbury and Taunton.

However, the deal means a total of 213 stores are still set to close, according to business consultancy, PwC, with 1,018 people losing their jobs.

Stores set to close include Bath, Bristol, Cribbs, Christchurch, Devizes,

More than 300 jobs have been saved by the deal, which will see stores in Yeovil, Weston super Mare, Chippenham, Trowbridge, and at Longwell Green in Bristol stay open.

Zelf Hussain, joint administrator, said: “Carpetright has fallen victim to challenges facing many retailers,

especially those selling big ticket items.

“A mixture of factors, including a big reduction in consumer spending due to cost of living pressures, lower home sales and a debilitating cyber attack made it impossible for the business to continue in its current form.”

He added: “It is deeply saddening that for the remainder of the workforce there will be redundancies.

“We are committed to helping those affected and will make sure redundancy claims are processed as quickly as possible.

“In collaboration with Tapi, we will assist in efforts to help individuals find new jobs elsewhere.”

Founded in 1988, Carpetright was based in Purfleet, Essex, and boasted 273 stores across the UK.

Business, legal & finance

Skincare firm celebrates flawless awards results

AN all-woman team has led a Somerset-based skincare brand to glory at a Europe-wide awards.

Lyonsleaf - The Republic of Natural Skincare, was crowned Best brand 2024 and saw six products medal at the thirteenth annual Free From Skincare Awards.

The awards were founded to encourage and reward manufacturers of skincare products that are ‘free from’ either artificial ingredients, or animalbased ingredients, or fragrances, or food allergens, and perhaps other ingredients associated with skin sensitivities, allergies, and ethical, environmental and health concerns.

"We are absolutely thrilled with this year's results," said Vicky Lyons, owner of Lyonsleaf.

"We love working with the Free From

Skincare Awards and are proud to support them every year. Their support towards small businesses is phenomenal and we are honoured by the number of awards Lyonsleaf products have achieved this year. Best Brand - wow.”

The announcements were made during an online event on Wednesday, June 26, followed a long judging process which included a rigorous month-long assessment by four experienced cosmetic testers, and concluded with round-table expert judging sessions, held in early June.

Lyonsleaf, established in 2011, has supported the Free From Skincare Awards since 2014 when they entered the ‘Problem Skin’ category with their first product – Calendula Cream.

To their astonishment they won the coveted gold medal and since then have

amassed 43, including Best Brand in 2021, 2022 and 2024; Nine Golds, 15 Silvers and 19 Bronze.

Lyonsleaf is women-owned, employing local mums from the area and operating around the school term to accommodate parenting, business and making a change for good in the cosmetic industry.

The company produces handmade products completely free from artificial chemicals and preservatives but also growing many of the main ingredients used to create the products.

With a water-free revolution, the recipes contain only naturally nourishing plant oils, organic beeswax, minerals, home-grown herbal extracts - and absolutely nothing else.

For more information - and the full range of products - see Lyonsleaf.co.uk.

David takes on new role at Somerset Chamber of Commerce

DAVID Crew – a chief at Weston College – has been appointed as managing director of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce.

Currently growth and partnerships director at the college, Mr Crew will take on his new role at the beginning of September, taking over from Emma Rawlings, who stepped down in May.

Mr Crew, pictured, is not new to the chamber. He is currently vice-chair of the Board of Directors, a Somerset Business

Awards judge and a Chamber Business Partner in his role at Weston College.

“I am delighted to be joining Somerset Chamber of Commerce and truly believe in its core values to support businesses to connect, influence and grow,” he said.

“It’s a really exciting time for Somerset Chamber as it continues delivering value for members through the benefits and events programme and continues to grow its member community.”

The team at Lyonsleaf celebrating their latest awards haul

MOD admission: links to toxic fumes

THE very welcome news that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has recently admitted a link between the development of cancer in pilots and navigators and exposure to toxic fumes during their service flying and navigating Puma and Chinook helicopters may open the way for many other service personnel and their families to reassess whether they have grounds to review their military pension entitlement.

Additionally, it may prompt consideration of bringing a claim for compensation against the MOD for failing to take all reasonable steps to protect individuals from exposure to hazardous fumes and the risk of injury during their service.

In the 2000s, I spent considerable time investigating and advising airline pilots who faced similar issues following exposure to toxic cabin air fumes in commercial airlines. These issues were complicated and technical, involving specialist medical opinions.

These cases are very similar. Although the legal principles of proving fault against the MOD and establishing that the injuries were caused by that fault are

by ADRIAN FAWDEN Head of Personal Injury, Pardoes Solicitors

relatively straightforward, these types of exposure cases require considerable investigation. More importantly, they necessitate expert technical and medical evidence, which often holds the key to success or failure.

As I have often suspected from my involvement in these issues, there are certainly grounds for further investigation.

I would be extremely keen to discuss these matters with any serving or ex-service personnel or their families who may have experienced symptoms or illness related to exposure to toxic materials and fumes during their military service—not only as pilots or navigators but also as ground engineers, support crew, or even passengers.

Initial consultations and advice will be provided free of charge and in total confidence.

Alternatively, as Pardoes Solicitors is a member of Forces Law, I can be

contacted via Forces Law, forceslaw. com/find-a-lawyer.

Pardoes Solicitors is proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and continues to support all members of the armed forces and veterans: www.pardoes. co.uk/armed-forces

An injured person has only a certain amount of time within which to bring a claim. I am a highly experienced personal injury solicitor who handles both private and no-win, no-fee claims.

I urge readers who feel they may be affected by these issues to contact me without delay at Pardoes Solicitors on 0800 862 0442, email enquiries@ pardoes.co.uk, or visit our website: www. pardoes.co.uk.

West End star Monique all set for Brewhouse summer school

AWEST End star is taking the stage in Taunton for a summer theatre school.

The Taunton Brewhouse is hosting the popular Musical Theatre Summer School once again, with performer Monique Ashe-Palmer bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to Somerset to lead the course. Her theatre credits include Standing at the Sky’s Edge (The Gillian Lynne Theatre); SIX (Vaudeville Theatre); Madagascar the Musical (U.K Tour), and Waitress (U.K. Tour).

She has also worked on seasonal campaigns for top brands including Boots and Matalan.

The course takes place over five fun-filled days, with aspiring performers aged between 13 and 19 working alongside Monique on an array of theatre pieces, before performing to family and friends as part of a sharing in the Studio Theatre.

The week-long course will enable participants to express their creativity, make fabulous friendships, and develop show-stopping skills that’ll have them stealing the

spotlight.

Artistic programmes and youth theatre coordinator, Abbie Riddell, said: "We are thrilled to be joined by Monique for our Musical Theatre Summer School this year.

"It’s an exciting time for musical theatre in the UK, with new musicals engaging new audiences and creating a real buzz for the arts industry.

"For local young people to work with someone like Monique, who is currently in the West End cast of Standing at the Sky’s Edge, is an unmissable opportunity."

The Musical Theatre Summer School, which will run at Taunton Brewhouse from Monday, August 19, to Friday, August 23, is delivered in collaboration with Rest End Ltd.

Rest End provides accessible, industry-led performing arts opportunities for schools, colleges, and theatre-loving individuals, including workshops, musical theatre parties, and private coaching.

To find out more, visit tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 01823 283244.

Libertines set for the 2024 Pilton Party at Worthy Farm

WITH the dust still settling on the 2024 Glastonbury Festival - The Libertines have been announced as the headliners at this year's Pilton Party.

The concert, an annual fundraising 'thank you' for villagers, workers and locals around the village of Pilton, where the festival is staged, will take place at Worthy Farm on Friday, September 6.

The show will be headlined by The Libertines, with more acts to be confirmed.

Tickets will go on sale online at See Tickets from noon tomorrow (July 12), costing £45 for adults and £20 for children aged 12 and under.

Any tickets left will be available on

Pilton Party, at Worthy Farm Picture: Raph_PH

the door for £50 (Adults) and £25 (Children), subject to availability.

Pilton Party gates open at 5pm, with live music due to finish at around 11pm, with a DJ set from Patmandu until midnight.

Meanwhile, organisers have confirmed the Pilton Party shuttle bus excursion ticket is once again available, with shuttles to the site running from Glastonbury Town Hall and Shepton Mallet Cenotaph between 5pm and 7pm, and return trips starting at 11pm.

Excursion tickets (adult £55 / £30 child) include entry to the event plus return shuttle bus travel.

There is no accommodation or camping at Pilton Party.

Headliners at Pilton Party shows are, more often than not, an early confirmation for the following year's Glastonbury Festival - so expect Pete Doherty and co to be in the fields next summer.

The Libertines will headline the 2024

West End star Monique Ashe-Palmer is set to host the Musical Theatre Summer School at the Brewhouse

Landscape: Flux and Flow the theme for 2024 Somerset Art Weeks Festival

EACH year, in Autumn, the much-loved annual Somerset Art Weeks event comes along to brighten our county.

It has been run every year since 1994 by local charity, Somerset Art Works, and has become a treasured part of the Somerset calendar.

This year sees the return of the Somerset Art Weeks Festival, where collaborative exhibitions and group shows spring up across the region.

Artists and makers of every medium, from painting to performance, will be joining the Festival to form part of this celebration of our county’s exciting creative voices.

From September 21 to October 6, the instantlyrecognisable yellow road

signs of Somerset Art Weeks will pop up across every corner of the county, signalling people towards an exhibition or show to discover in their local area.

Spotting those arrows standing out against the green of a long drive, or peeking around the corner of a village street is a delight for visitors, guaranteeing that something exciting can be found there.

Year-on-year, Somerset Art Weeks can be counted on to inspire and challenge, using their chosen themes to create a dialogue between artists and their audience.

In light of the inescapable and ever-growing urgency of the climate crisis, changes to our local landscapes, and a developing intimacy with nature and our local environments, the chosen theme this year is Landscape: Flux and Flow. Exhibiting artists will be responding to this theme in a number of different ways within their work.

SAW will be providing vital opportunities and support to artists and makers to produce work on this theme during the Festival to provide tailor-made support for artist

ADVERTISING FEATURE members to develop their practice, and to deliver high-quality, challenging work in public spaces.

You can find out all further details of how to visit the Somerset Art Weeks Festival this year by going to the SAW website at www. somersetartworks.org.uk or downloading the official Somerset Art Weeks 2024 App. You can also pick up a guide from your local library, cultural organisation or at tourist information centres across Somerset in September for all information about the venues.

This year SAW welcomes new headline sponsor, Albert Goodman, whose contribution to this event will allow the arts to reach more people, and continue to thrive.

Shore Shapes, by Ann Good

Bruton Art Society ready for 71st Annual Exhibition to start new era

BRUTON Art Society’s Annual Exhibition is set to be held in the Memorial Hall at King’s School Bruton from August 17 to 24.

Having celebrated 70 years since it started, the Society is now moving on to the next decade with its 71st Annual Exhibition. This will again be held in the beautiful Memorial Hall, King’s School Bruton, with thanks to the Headmaster, and is open to the public from August 17 to 24 between 10am and 4pm, including Sunday.

The strength and size of the exhibition has grown over the years and last year, 152 members exhibited their work, with 1,200 visitors over the week.

This is a reflection of the many amateur and professional artists we have here in the region, which provides and maintains the high standard of work which we are proud to promote.

We are also very grateful to our sponsors who support the different awards we have on offer during the Exhibition and we certainly could not produce a show of this size without our dedicated volunteers who step up each year to help.

BRUTON ART SOCIETY

Nurse Pat retires after 51 years of caring

“I ALWAYS wanted to be a nurse.”

Those were the words of inspirational Pat Wilcox, who has retired from her role at Yeovil Hospital after a staggering 51 years’ service.

And after her retirement, she got a surprise visit from town MP Adam Dance (Lib Dem, Yeovil), after she left the hospital building for the last time as a nurse.

Adam, who is a governor of the hospital, delivered a surprise bouquet of flowers.

“It is through the dedication and hard work of Pat and her colleagues at Yeovil Hospital that the people of South Somerset can still rely on the NHS,” the MP said.

“Pat has given most of her life to the NHS and has worked in the emergency department at Yeovil.

“I understand there are great difficulties accessing

GPs and dentists but Yeovil Hospital provides much needed help and reassurance when there are emergencies.

“Without this we would all be much more insecure.

“I wish Pat well in her retirement and thank her for her years of service to the people of South Somerset and West Dorset.

“I hope Pat and her husband, Bernie, will now be able to take some time for themselves and as Pat says, open a new chapter in their lives.”

Pat said: “I always wanted to be a nurse and started my training in January 1973. A small hospital then, with two nightingale wards, a children’s ward, private wing, casualties as it was known then and outpatients; the District Hospital opened in March 1973.

“I qualified in 1976, working initially in Main

Theatre and Intensive care, before spending 47 years in the Emergency Department.

“I have had sad times, happy times, and what I would call character building times.

“I feel privileged to have worked alongside and been part of an amazing team, supporting so many people and their families.

“At the age of 18, I would never have thought that 51 and a half years later I would finally walk out of the door for the last time.

“On Friday I was shocked and humbled that Adam Dance MP visited me to thank me for my service to the community, giving me some beautiful flowers.

“I didn’t expect this, all I have done is the job that I have loved, being part of an amazing dedicated team, working together to provide the best care that we can.

“I will miss my patients, their families and my colleagues, but I am looking forward to opening a new chapter in my life.”

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Recruitment Public Notice

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Senior Sales Advisor, Wells

Lodestone Property is an award-winning, independent Estate Agency based in Wells and Bruton, Somerset. We are currently looking for someone to join our successful office in Wells as a Senior Sales Advisor.

The successful candidate will have:

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• IT and digital skills for this fast-moving sector

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If you would like to be a part of this dynamic team in a forward-thinking, professional and modern agency, please send us an introductory email with your updated CV to: sue@lodestoneproperty.co.uk

This notice is made with reference to Group 13, Schedule 9, VAT Act 1994.

The notice con rms that the College shall apply the VAT Public Bodies Cultural Exemption. This follows HM Governments re-classi cation of Further Education Colleges as Public Bodies on 29 November 2022.

The College shall apply the VAT exemption to the right of admission to college and student productions of live theatrical, choreographic or musical performances, at the following venue:Strode Theatre Strode College Church Road Street BA16 0AB

If any commercial theatre objects to the College applying this exemption, please contact the College Finance O ce at the above address within 30 days of the publiction of this notice.

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Thousands turn out to savour the delights of Taunton Flower Show

BLOOMS of all colours and creeds were on display at the 2024 Taunton Flower Show.

Thousands of visitors poured through the gates of Vivary Park over the weekend of August 3 and 4 for the event, said to be the oldest flower show in the country.

Alongside dozens of fiercely-contested categories, visitors were able to enjoy

entertainment ranging from music to motorbikes, fancy food and more.

Organisers hailed the event a success, thanking visitors, sponsors and all involved for helping create "another brilliant year".

Meanwhile, preparations are already underway for 2025.

For more details, visit tauntonfs.co.uk.

Thousands turned out for the 2024 Taunton Flower Show

Home & Garden

Open gardens...

ELWORTHY COTTAGE

A one-acre plantsman's garden in tranquil setting. Island beds, scented plants, clematis, unusual perennials and ornamental trees and shrubs to provide year-round interest.

In spring, pulmonarias, hellebores and more than 350 varieties of snowdrops. Planted to encourage birds, bees and butterflies. Lots of birdsong, wildflower areas and developing wildflower meadow, decorative vegetable garden, living willow screen.

Seats for visitors to enjoy views of the surrounding countryside. Garden attached to plantsman's nursery, open at the same time.

Address: Elworthy, Taunton TA4 3PX.

Contact: Mike & Jenny Spiller, 01984 656427, mike@elworthy-cottage. co.uk www.elworthy-cottage.co.uk.

YEWS FARM (pictured)

with Roger Peacock

Theatrical planting in large south facing walled garden, plants selected for height, form, leaf and texture.

Prolific Box topiary. Low maintenance perennials. High maintenance pots.

Facilities: Home-made teas, Plants for Sale, Dogs welcome, Picnics, Coaches. Teas in aid of Children's Hospice South West. Disabled Information: Not suitable for wheelchairs.

Opening Dates and Time: August 26 - 11am-4.30pm.

Admission: £5, children free. Cashless payment available.

Period of Opening by Arrangement: Feb to Sept.

Directions: 12m NW of Taunton. On B3188 between Wiveliscombe and Watchet.

Vegetables and cut flowers grown together. Self seeding hugely encouraged. Working organic kitchen garden. Greenhouses bursting with summer vegetables.

Organic orchard with heritage varieties and active cider barn. Hens and pigs.

Address: East Street, Martock TA12 6NF.

Contact: Louise & Fergus Dowding, instagram.com/ dowdinglouise.

Facilities: Home-made teas, Plants for sale, coaches.

Disabled Information: Mostly wheelchair accessible, ring for details.

Opening Dates and Time: September 8 - 1.30pm-5pm.

Admission: £8, children free. Cash only.

Directions: Turn off main rd, Church St, at Market House/ visitor’s centre, on to East St, go past White Hart & PO on R. Yews Farm 150 yds on R, opp Foldhill Lane.

Turn around if you get to Nag’s Head.

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& Garden

Join our debate over wildflowers, weeds and everything inbetween...

THERE has long been a debate as to what constitutes a weed as opposed to a wild flower. This was a source of friction at School Farm recently.

By the old pig sties we have created a gravel garden which, owing to Helen’s back trouble last year, had become somewhat overgrown.

It is true that there were some wild flowers there, but also a lot of very vigorous and invasive grasses.

Helen wanted all the flowers left alone, but it was not possible to remove the grass without disturbing the wild flowers.

We have compromised by setting aside an area beside the pear trees as a wild flower garden.

As many of you will know, a lot of our land is on Eastmoor, an area that regularly floods over six feet deep in the winter. In times past this area was a veritable haven for wild flowers, birds, insects and aquatic life.

When grandad semi-retired in 1962, he decided to let out some of this land to a neighbouring farmer, Bill Cridland.

Bill was a progressive and highly-productive farmer, doing exactly what the

OVER THE FARM GATE

by GRAHAM WALKER

government of the day wanted him to do.

To this end he applied six hundredweight of nitrogen fertiliser per acre every year.

This produced what can only be described as a solid wall of grass, excellent for grazing or hay making, but

neighbouring farmers could be paid to farm in a manner very similar to how things had been previously, principally a vast reduction in the amount of fertiliser used, and allow the water level to rise.

The reduction in fertility has allowed many wild

not a single wild flower in sight, and precious little wildlife.

During the late 1980s, a complete reversal of policy was started. The area first became a Site of Special Scientific Interest, followed by an Environmentally Sensitive Area.

This meant we and other

flowers to return, which previously could not compete with the very vigorous grass.

This is where the debate of what is a weed and what is a wild flower comes in.

Hard heads, cuckoo flowers and ragged robin are all a joy to see, and an indicator that we are managing to reverse some of the damage of the

past.

Not so welcome was the return of ragwort, which is poisonous to livestock, and had previously been unable to compete with the vigorous grass.

The ragwort is now under control, but at its worst we were forced to pull by hand about 15 Land Rovers' full of ragwort in an eight-acre field.

Next month it will be possible for you all to see the wild flowers and weeds of School Farm. We are holding a charity open afternoon on Sunday, September 22, from 2pm, in aid of Cancer Research UK.

The part of the farm near the house will be open to stroll around, with pigs, poultry, sheep, and the cider orchard all on view.

There will be a display of classic vehicles and stationary engines, and Maurice Fawcett will be doing a willow weaving demonstration.

Cream teas will be served throughout the afternoon, to the accompaniment of Kingsbury Episcopi Band.

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible. Hopefully the weather will be kind to us!

Any queries please call us on 01458 251127.

Review of plans announced to stop 'nature dying'

THE government is carrying out a rapid review of the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) in a "renewed ambition to deliver legally binding targets and save nature".

The announcement came with the publication of the Environmental Improvement Plan Annual Progress Report, which highlighted the need for accelerated action to reverse the historic declines in nature.

The new Labour Government said it will now develop delivery plans to meet each of its Environment Act targets,

focusing on cleaning up our waterways, reducing waste across the economy, planting millions more trees, improving air quality and halting the decline in species by 2030.

Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, said: "Nature is dying. Britain is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. Our animal species face extinction. Our precious landscapes are in decline. Our rivers, lakes and seas are awash with sewage and pollution. Air pollution continues to

plague our towns and cities.

"Nature underpins everything – the economy, food, health and society - but we stand at a moment in history when nature needs us to defend it.

"That is why today we begin to chart a new course. Working with civil society, business and local government, we will develop an ambitious programme to turn the tide and save nature."

Dame Glenys Stacey, chair of the Office for Environmental Protection, said the organisation welcomed the review to "drive environmental protection".

Red Rubies set for auction

RED Ruby Devon cattle are famed for their beautiful deep rich red mossy coats, their calm temperament, high fertility, plentiful milk, marbled connoisseur beef and outstanding ability to graze environmentally enhanced pastures commonly found in our most beautiful local landscape.

These attributes first attracted the current owners when looking for a beef herd to graze their farms at Mere, just off the Wiltshire Downs.

Their decision to buy Red Ruby Devons coincided with a major reduction of the celebrated Kingston Lacy Herdthe property of The National Trust which had been established in the 1890s by the late WR Banks and gifted to the Trust in 1981 by HJR Banks.

Farmer Ruth attended the sale and bought well, securing the best on offer to establish the Mere Park herd.

Stock bulls have come from the world-renowned Whitefield herd and latterly the prize winning Rocknell herd.

The herd has been skillfully developed to maintain and enhance the qualities the couple first fell in love with and now the painful decision has been made to dramatically reduce the herd to a more manageable size for the septuagenarian couple.

The sale takes place at Larkinglass Farm, Motcombe, SP7 9HY on Thursday, August 29, from noon, where approximately 100 head will go under the hammer including cows and calves, served heifers, steers and bulls.

Joint Auctioneers Symonds & Sampson and Andrew Lane are delighted to have been appointed to conduct the sale.

Andrew Lane, who is also president of the Devon Cattle Breeders Society, said that having sold Ruth her foundation cattle at Kingston Lacy it is a privilege to have watched the Mere Park cattle grow and develop into the well-respected herd

it has become today.

The herd features two outstanding stock bulls in Whitefield Unbelievable EX91 winner of the DCBS two-year-old bull of the year in 2023 and Rocknell Quarrylad EX95, both of which are leaving quality offspring including a son each in the sale which could be your next herd sire.

The cattle on offer have deep pedigrees, outstanding confirmation and are a must have for both pedigree and commercial breeders alike.

Viewing dates and catalogues are available from the auctioneers.

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Across

1 Drop pretence (6)

5 Satirical work on normal revolutionary party year (6)

8 A pair of books on a Swedish group (4)

9 Union perhaps lacking in loyalty (8)

Sudoku Pro

10 A leading group in hot area in Caribbean capital (6)

Killer Sudoku Pro

11 Search thoroughly extremists in argument in struggle (6)

Down

2 Posh doctor with artist in shadow (5)

3 A very advanced party supporting Britain boastful display (7)

4 Promise a grant possibly to cover university and centres for new experts (9)

5 Friend found in pearls oddly (3)

6 Genuine money for kingdom (5)

7 Criminal male CID gets to harangue (7)

12 Thin pancake at a counter partly (4)

14 Digit from west presumably? (3)

15 Get rid of dilapidated place (4)

16 Look over casually lines penned by education graduate (6)

18 Conclusion of springtime flower festival (6)

20 Extra work covering US magazine (8)

22 Pair in suit employed (4)

23 Keep at distance from Anglican church in warm garment (6)

24 Hear about aim that’s in fashion (6)

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

11 Most intelligent young animal catching sun after cold (9)

13 Arab opponent is coming (7)

15 Hate unusual power in erratic side (7)

17 New or senior guards in a deteriorated state? (5)

19 Alter first person in final (5)

21 Reserve diamonds (3)

Reports of Bully XL abuse rise by 230% in wake of government ban, says RSPCA

REPORTS of XL Bully dogs being intentionally harmed or neglected have soared since the breed was banned, according to the RSPCA.

The animal charity said figures reveal reports of neglect relating to dogs reported as being XL Bully types have gone up 230%, from 164 in 2023, to 542 for the first six months of 2024.

Meanwhile, the number of reports of intentional harm to XL Bully type dogs has gone up 96% (78 in 2023, 153 for the first six months of 2024), while reports of XL Bully types dogs being left unattended has increased by 514% (21 in 2023, 129 for first six months of 2024).

The RSPCA is a member of the Dog Control Coalition, which has campaigned for an urgent review of legislation that bans dogs based on their type and appearance.

Tens of thousands of XL Bully type dogs were exempted by their owners after the UK Government announced the ban, now living under strict rules, such as always being on the lead,

muzzled in public and having been neutered.

RSPCA dog welfare expert, Dr Samantha Gaines, said: "It is hugely concerning that figures show a big jump in reports to us about cruelty and neglect specifically aimed at XL Bully type dogs since the start of the year. We’ve seen an increase generally in serious abuse to animals - particularly intentional harm and beatings - but the increase in reports relating specifically to XL Bully types is very alarming.

cruelty towards dogs who have become increasingly demonised in recent months."

"We fear this is a direct result of the recent UK Government ban on this type of dog.

"This could be a result of the extra pressures this ban has placed on desperate owners who may already be struggling to care for their dogs during this cost of living crisis.

"But even worse, these could be deliberate acts of

The XL Bully was recently added to the list of banned types, making it illegal to own them in England and Wales since February 1. Bans in Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have followed.

Five types of dogs are now banned in England and Wales, including the pit bull terrier type, Japanese tosa type, fila Brasiliero type, dogo Argentino type, and the XL

Bully type, under the Dangerous Dogs Actcommonly known as breed specific legislation (BSL).

Dr Gaines added: "The RSPCA remains committed to protecting public safety around dogs and does not want to see anyone else dying as a result of a dog bite incident.

"However, the current approach to dog control is not working and needs a complete overhaul. We want to see any approach compatible with public safety and good dog welfare."

Clarks Village career-driven canine search

CLARKS Village is on the hunt for its next CEO – canine executive officer – as its popular Pawsome Pooch weekend event returns next month.

The free, two-day Pawsome Pooch event will see a doggy takeover at the dog-friendly shopping outlet in Street with have-a-go agility and trick

sessions, expert displays, pooch pampering, caricature pet paw-traits and Guide Dog demonstrations.

At the heart of the event will be a canine-casting photography competition to find Clarks Village’s next CEO; Canine Executive Officer.

Professional pet photographers will be scouting

the event hosting free dog photo shoots, with a shortlist of entries going before a public vote to find the region’s top dog.

The winner will be bestowed with the CEO title and become Clarks Village’s paw-fect poster star.

As well as being the outlet’s official canine consultant, they and their

owner will also receive VIP invites to Clarks Village events as well as a prize package.

Dog owners are urged to book ahead for the event, between 11am and 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday, September 7 and 8. For more details - and to book a free shoot - see clarksvillage.co. uk/pawsome-pooch-2024.

Wagamama on the menu at Clarks Village offering shoppers a new taste

RESTAURANT chain Wagamama has opened at Clarks Village in Street.

The eatery is the chain’s 167th branch in the UK, and has created around 60 jobs.

Catering for 172 covers, including 40 outside, the restaurant has been labelled the outlet village’s ‘most sustainable’.

Clarks Village said it is on track to be awarded a gold award by SKA Rating, in recognition of its sustainability credentials.

More than a dozen tables in the

restaurant have been crafted from recycled chopsticks, while all furniture is made from 80%+ recycled or re-used materials.

Sita Wood, head of regional marketing at Wagamama, said: “We are so excited to have opened the doors to our brand-new restaurant in Clarks Village and are proud to announce this as our most sustainable restaurant yet.

“Our benches here (made of 100% recycled materials including our chopsticks) are now welcoming the local community and visitors of the outlet shopping destination, and we can’t wait to serve up some of our newest dishes and fresh favourites.”

Chris Davis, centre director at Clarks Village, added: “We’re pleased to welcome Wagamama to join our unique mix of brands at Clarks Village.

“There has been a lot of excitement about Wagamama’s arrival and

we’re sure it will be a huge hit with our guests.

“Along with the opening of French Connection, Slim Chickens, Rituals and Moss as well as several brand refreshes not to mention our forthcoming Open-Air Cinema, guests are in for a real treat when they visit Clarks Village this summer.”

The Wagamama opening hours at Clarks Village in Street are:

Monday: 11am to 10pm

Tuesday: 11am to 10pm

Wednesday: 11am to 10pm

Thursday: 11am to 10pm

Friday: 11am to 11pm

Saturday: 11am to 11pm

Sunday: 11am to 10pm

The Clarks Village restaurant is the chain's 167th UK outlet

Food & Drink

A big (and healthy) breakfast is the most important meal

by COBBS WHOLEFOODS

THE most essential meal of the day? Often rushed, overlooked, and unimaginative in content! It does, after all, fall at the most inconvenient time of the day.

We often wonder why we feel stressed, tired and "hangry" by mid morning when we have only fuelled up with a strong coffee!

Not wishing to sound like a righteous preacher of health, we really do need to start the day with at least a quick, nutritious, sugar-balancing breakfast!

With a few minutes preparation and thinking ahead you can rustle up a delicious granola that provides essential nutrients, protein and healthy carbs to kick start your metabolism for the day ahead.

Containing oats for cholesterol reducing, sugar balancing and soluble fibre, seeds for minerals such as magnesium, calcium, copper, zinc and essential fatty acids.

Nuts for protein and healthy fats, honey, dates or maple syrup for natural sweetness without spiking blood sugars. Coconut oil for omega fatty acids.

Super boost granola:

300g jumbo porridge oats

3 tbsp honey maple or date syrup

150g mixed seeds

50g flaked almonds

50 flaked coconut

50g cashew pieces

50g desiccated coconut

3tbsp coconut oil

1 tsp cinnamon

150g dried cranberries and raisins mixed

Preheat oven at 150C

Melt coconut oil and honey or syrup. Mix a ingredients together except for dried fruit.

Tip onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 mins. Remove from oven, turn mixture over and return to oven for another 15 mins to bake evenly. Leave to cool before adding dried fruit. Store in an airtight container.

Use gluten-free. jumbo oats if you are intolerant to gluten.

For an extra crunchy high protein granola add 2tbsp of nut butter to the melted oil and honey. This gives a delicious nutty result!

A bowl of this super nutritious cereal topped with yogurt, fresh fruit, and milk will certainly give you a perfectly balanced start to the day.

Much healthier than a lot of shop bought, high-sugar, over-priced alternatives.

Try overnight oats! An instant breakfast ready and waiting for you in the morning!

Simply mix 2 tbsp porridge oats with 2tsp chia seeds, 1 cup of milk of choice, 1tbsp honey, 2tbsp natural live yogurt, mix altogether and pop into a lidded jar or container and chill overnight.

Simply top with fresh berries and a sprinkling of granola for a delicious crunchy filling breakfast.

Wholefoods

At Cobbs we stock everything you need for healthy baking!

We also offer a range of muesli blends and granolas blended to our own exclusive recipes. Low in sugar and high in nutrients!

Motoring with David Young

Alpine unveils an all-electric hot hatch

THEmore things change, the more they stay the same. You might think that the development of the EV is a big change, but strip away the new technology and a car is still a car.

Or in the case of the brand-new Alpine A290, a hot hatch is still a hot hatch.

Fresh from its world premiere at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, the fullyelectric Alpine A290 has now been fully revealed and should be available to order before the end of the year.

Despite a relatively distinguished history, Alpine still manages to feel like a bit of a newcomer. It enjoyed a certain degree of racing success through the 1950s and 1960s before the brand was bought by Renault in 1973.

Alpine’s racing department merged into Renault Sport and production of Alpine-badged models eventually ceased in the mid-90s. And that was that, until the brand was resurrected with the launch of the Alpine A110 in 2017.

With its cutting-edge design and first-class technical features, the A290 will now sit alongside the A110 in the

Alpine line-up, offering a perfect blend of styling and performance in an exhilarating all-electric hatchback.

The styling is intended to give the A290 a road presence to match its performance. Despite being a regular size hatchback, its muscular body appears much bigger thanks to its wide wings, side skirts, rear diffuser, four headlamps, and ducktail roof spoiler.

It sits on 19-inch alloy wheels as standard with two different designs available, both of which show off the red or blue brake callipers perfectly.

The interior is equally stylish as well as being very much driver-oriented, not to mention practical with its five seats, five doors, and generous boot space.

The three-spoke sports steering wheel is finished in Nappa leather and festooned with all you need to make the most of the driving experience. Sport pedals and a footrest also make the A290 a comfortable car to drive.

The race-inspired seats feature extra side support and are separated by the high centre console that incorporates the

transmission controls.

The 10.1-inch central screen is angled towards the driver, and the physical air-conditioning controls can also be adjusted without taking your eyes off the road.

The central screen is also where you’ll find the Google Maps navigation, another standard feature along with Google voice assistant. You can also use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to connect a smartphone to the onboard system, either wired or wirelessly.

The power to accompany the looks comes from one of two all-electric drivetrains on offer. The Alpine A290 range comprises two versions, the GT and GTS, split across four different variants. All models utilise the same 52 kWh battery, and there’s a heat pump fitted as standard to optimise cabin temperature and preserve range so you’ll be looking at a range of around 230 miles on a full charge.

A 100kW DC fast-charging system enables it to go from 15 to 80% charge in 30 minutes, while the regular 11kW

on-board charger can top up from 50% to 80% in 1 hour 20 minutes, or 3 hours 20 minutes to recover from 10% to 80%. That’s more than quick enough for overnight charging at home.

The Alpine A290 also offers four levels of brake regeneration to maximise the energy in the battery.

In terms of the specific models, the entry-level GT version features a 180bhp powertrain, 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with special Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, tinted rear windows, full LED headlights, heated seats, and adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. It also includes parking sensors front and rear and a reversing camera as standard.

The GT range also includes two complementary models, the GT Premium

and GT Performance.

The A290 GT Premium uses the same 180bhp powertrain and focuses on comfort and refinement by adding a contrasting black roof and Alpine Blue brake callipers, Nappa leather interior, a premium audio system, heated steering wheel, and wireless smartphone charger. The A290 GT Performance worries less about the luxury and more about the performance. It increases the power to an impressive 220bhp as well as adding special Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, red brake callipers, black monograms, electrically folding door mirrors, and Alpine Telemetrics to the equipment list.

The top-of-the-range GTS version combines the best of the two GT versions, adding a few exclusive features such as black Snowflake wheels to go with the 220bhp under your right foot.

In fact, the only thing I can’t tell you yet is exactly how much it will cost.

If I had to hazard a guess, based on the fact the A290 will be going head-to-head with other hot-hatch EVs such as the £34,000 Abarth 500e and £36,000 Mini Cooper Electric, it’s a pretty safe assumption the price tag will fall into a similar band as its competition.

Alpine may have disappeared for a while but it’s back with a bang now, with the new A290 soon to be joined by a GT-C Crossover and an updated version of the A110. In this first Alpine of a new era, electric propulsion is combined with its sporting heritage without compromising everyday comfort.

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Crossword

Your chance to complete a Grand Designs-style projcct in Somerset

BUDDING builders have the chance to complete a Grand Designs-style project in a Somerset village.

Planning permission has been secured and work started on a bespoke new, fourbedroom detached property, at Hambridge, near Langport.

Now, Dabinett House is up for sale, with offers of around £650,000 being invited by property agent Greenslade Taylor Hunt (GTH).

“The site benefits from exceptional views across open countryside,” a GTH spokesperson said. “When complete it will provide a spacious four bedroom detached home featuring local natural lias stone and natural slate.”

The roomy accommodation extends to around 167 sq m (1,800 sq ft) and includes a hall, sitting room, kitchen/ dining room, bedroom with ensuite, utility and WC.

Upstairs a master bedroom with dressing area and ensuite will lead off a galleried landing. Two further bedrooms, a bathroom and store complete the first floor.

Construction to ground floor slab level has been finished and inspected by Somerset Building Control.

“The property will be accessed via a car park shared with the church of St James The Less,” the spokesperson said.

“This is a condition of the detailed planning permission and must be built before the house is occupied. Three spaces will be allocated to the house and eight to the church. The house will be separate and private from the car park.”

Potential buyers have the opportunity to see the site during view days on Tuesdays, July 2, 9 and 16, from 9am to 11am.

Offers in the region of

£650,000 are invited on an unconditional basis. The deadline for the submission of offers is noon on Friday, August 2.

For more information and to book a viewing, contact James Nelson or Sarah Wynn at GTH on 01823 334466, or email james.nelson@gth.net or sarah.wynn@gth.net.

Who can you turn to?

We are here to help

Our team at Notaro Care Homes, have a wealth of experience and knowledge, so we understand what a critical time it is for the whole family when considering future care options.

We are always here to talk to you, offer advice and support you through the process.

We are a family-run business and have been providing vital care and support to individuals across Somerset for nearly 40 years.

Casa di Lusso Care Home has been purposebuilt to provide positive outcomes for people living there. The home features all the latest in care home technology to give peace of mind to residents and their loved ones.

“I cannot speak highly enough of all the care that my husband is receiving at La Fontana.

The home is primarily for individuals living with dementia and/or general nursing needs. The home also provides care and support for individuals with learning disabilities and mental health conditions.

The care and concern is also extended to us as a family.

I cannot think of anywhere else I would wish my husband to be cared for.”

- Christine, Wife of Resident

La Fontana

Casa di Lusso

Aspen Court

Cedar Lodge

Immacolata House

Casa di Lusso Dementia Nursing Care Home, Bower Lane, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 4GU

La Fontana Dementia Nursing Care Home, Foldhill Lane, Martock, Somerset, TA12 6PQ Call 01935 829900

Aspen Court Dementia Nursing Home, Hope Corner Lane, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 7PB

Cedar Lodge & The Limes Care Home, Hope Corner Lane, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 7PB

Immacolata

Home, Portway, Langport, Somerset, TA10 0NQ