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STAPLEGROVE
Accountants with Solutions For business and private clients Established in West Somerset since 1927 Please telephone: Anthony Porter or Mark Sanders for an initial FREE consultation
PARISH JOURNAL
Castle Lodge, Castle Green, Taunton
137 Kingston Road, Taunton TA2 7SR
(01823) 326555
ANDREW HULL GENERAL BUILDER Alterations, Extensions & General Maintenance Please phone for FREE ESTIMATE 'Fairoake', Rectory Road, Staplegrove Taunton, Somerset TA2 6EL Tel: 01823 259809
November 2009 Printed by Wessex Malthouse Tel: (01823) 331111
50p
THE PARISH CHURCH OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST, STAPLEGROVE Rector: Reader:
Rev. Stephen Kivett, The Rectory, Staplegrove 270211 Mrs. Sara Whitmarsh, 7 Ash Court, Stanway Close, Tn. 07765 832596 Churchwardens: Mrs. Sue Derham, 48 Nash Green, Staplegrove 334866 Mr. John Kenny, 16 Nash Green, Staplegrove 274886 Deputy Warden: Mr. Gerald Weaver, 2 Feversham Way, Taunton 283198 Assistant Warden: Mr. Graham Hobrough, 27 Nash Green, Staplegrove 332118 PCC Secretary: Mr. Martin Cursham, Burlands Farm, Staplegrove 451217 Stewardship Secretary: Mr. Chris Young, 1 Lawn Road, Staplegrove 276080 TCT Representative: Rev. Stephen Kivett, The Rectory, Staplegrove 270211 Child Protection Co-ordinator: Mrs. Kirsti Nelson, 35 Gillards, Taunton 337313 Child Advocate: Mrs. Iona Young, 1 Lawn Road 276080 Choir: Mrs. Elizabeth Hall, 1 Richmond Road, Taunton 284877 Assistant Organist: Mrs. Lesley Clark, Brookfield, Staplegrove 282239 Bellringers' Contact: Dr. Tom Harris, Higher Yarde Farm, Staplegrove 451553 Staplegrove Journal: Dr. Tom Harris, Higher Yarde Farm, Staplegrove 451553 Journal Distribution: Mrs. Janet Darby, 18 Lawn Road, Staplegrove 271457 Bible Reading Fellowship: Miss Margery Gould, 23 Cedar Court, Stanway Close, Tn. 257245 Mothers' Union: Mrs. Alison Cursham, Burlands Farm, Staplegrove 451217 Women's Group: Mrs. Marion Coombes, 241 Staplegrove Road, Taunton 284236 Men's Society: Mr. Graham Hobrough, 27 Nash Green, Staplegrove 332118 Evergreen Group: Mrs. Elizabeth Hall, 1 Richmond Road, Taunton 284877 Local History Society: Dr. Claudine Tyson, Otterford Mill, Otterford 01460 234675 Staplegrove Trust: Mr. Arthur Coles, 1 Wellesley Court, Windsor Close, Tn. 339362 Staplegrove VC Primary School: Mrs Kirsti Nelson, Head Teacher 337313 Pre-School Play Group: Mrs. Paula Lukins 324566 1st Staplegrove Rainbow Guides: Mrs. Tina Brownlow, 14 Nash Green, Staplegrove 288428 1st Staplegrove Brownies: Mrs. Marilyn Horsfall, 9 Fairwater Close 272436 2nd Staplegrove Brownies: Mrs. Alison Cottey, 40 Whitmore Road 253847 Group Scout Leader: Mr. Chris Owen, 18 Glasses Mead, Taunton 332886 Staplegrove Scouts: Mr. Martin Allen, 37 Cashford Gate, Taunton 335815 Staplegrove Cubs: Mr. Simon Lacey, 4 Mountway Close, Bishops Hull, Tn. 257208 Staplegrove Beavers: Mr. Mark Foster, 9 Cherry Grove, Taunton 276888 Staplegrove Parish Council: Dr. Geoff Hayes (Chairman), Brookside, Nailsbourne 451341 Staplegrove Village Hall: Mrs. Margaret Taylor, 7 Lawn Road 271570 Staplegrove Short Mat Bowls Club: Mrs. Barbara Culverwell, 201 Staplegrove Road 271570 Staplegrove Youth Football Club: Mr. Roger Cutler, 10 Lawn Road, Staplegrove 279318 Staplegrove Local ActionTeam: Dr. Geoff Hayes, Brookside, Nailsbourne 451341 Police Community Support Officer: Tony Wearmouth 363287 Ext. 70108
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Unlocking potential Taunton School is a leading independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged from 2 to 18 years. The school is pleased to offer the International Baccalaureate at Sixth Form, complementing our excellent A and AS Level Programme.
Generous scholarships and awards offered. Pupil transport service available. 01823 349200 enquiries@tauntonschool.co.uk
www.tauntonschool.co.uk
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Holy Communion at St John’s BCP Morning Eucharist at St John’s Evening Worship at All Saints Holy Communion at St John’s CW Morning Worship at All Saints Evening Eucharist at St John’s
8.00 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm 8.00 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm
Holy Communion at St John’s BCP United Benefice Eucharist at St John’s
8.00 am 10.30 am
Holy Communion at St John’s BCP All Age Worship at St John’s Evening Eucharist at All Saints
8.00 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm
Christmas Day
Holy Communion at St John’s CW Morning Eucharist as All Saints Evening Worship at St John’s Holy Communion at St John’s CW All Age Worship at All Saints 9 Lessons & Carols at St John’s Christingle at All Saints Christingle at St John’s Lesson & Carols by Candlelight at All Saints Midnight Communion at St John’s Holy Communion at St John’s BCP All Saints Morning Eucharist St John’s All Age Worship
8.00 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm 8.00 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm 3.00 pm 4.30 pm 6.30 pm 11.30 pm 8.00 am 10.30 am 10.30 am
27th December 1st Sunday of Christmas
Holy Communion at St John’s CW All Age Worship at All Saints Evening Eucharist at St John’s
8.00 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm
15th November SALES >> INSTALLATION >> SET-UP >> AFTERSALES SUPPORT TV TUNING >> DIGITAL SWITCHOVER ADVICE FOR ALL YOUR TELEVISION AND HI-FI EQUIPMENT From the very latest > LED Televisions > LCD and Plasma Televisions DVD and Blu-Ray Players > DVD Recorders > Digital Freeview Boxes Hi-Fi Music Systems > Micro Hi-Fi Music Systems
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St Nicholas 2nd Sunday of Advent
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL MARTIN ON
13th December rd
01823 251131
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07982 855491
3 Sunday of Advent
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4th Sunday of Advent 24th December (Thursday)
Christmas Eve 25th December (Friday)
All Saints = Norton Fitzwarren
St John’s = Staplegrove
Holy Communion Service on Thursdays at 10.00 am at St John’s & Fridays at 10.30 am at All Saints
Additional details regarding Worship over the Christmas period will appear in the next issue of the Journal.
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St John’s Pram Service 11.00 am Thursday 10
December For more information contact Moira Read 01823 279686
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STILLMANS
THE CHURCHWARDENS COLUMN
BIBLE READINGS
FAMILY BUTCHER
Readings taken from the ‘Revised English Bible’. N.B. Except if shown separately, the readings at 8 a.m. will normally be the first and last of those shown for the main morning service of the same day. Date
Service
Time
Readings
Page
Readers
8th November 3rd Sunday before Advent
St John’s Remembrance Sunday Service St John’s Evening Worship St John’s Morning Eucharist All Saints Evening Worship All Saints All Age Worship St John’s Evening Eucharist St John’s Morning Eucharist St John’s All Age Worship All Saints Evening Eucharist All Saints Morning Eucharist St John’s Evening Worship All Saints All Age Worship St John’s Lessons and Carols All Saints Carols by Candlelight St John’s Midnight Communion All Saints Morning Eucharist St John’s All Age Worship All Saints All Age Worship St John’s Evening Eucharist
10.50 am
Micah 4:1-5 John 14:23-29
OT 805 NT 95
Martin Cursham Chris Young
6.30 pm
Micah 4:1-5 John 14:23-29 Daniel 12:1-3 Mark 13:1-8 Daniel 12:1-3 Mark 13:1-8 Revelation 1:4b-8 John 18:33-37 Revelation 1:4b-8 John 18:33-37 1 Thess. 3:9-13 Luke 21:25-36 Malachi 3:1-4 Luke 3:1-6 Malachi 3:1-4 Luke 3:1-6 Isaiah 12:2-6 Luke 3:7-18 Isaiah 12:2-6 Luke 3:7-18
OT 805 NT 95 OT 779 NT 43 OT 779 NT 43 NT 222 NT 99 NT 222 NT 99 NT 184 NT 74 OT 827 NT 51 OT 827 NT 51 OT 599 NT 52 OT 599 NT 52
Mary Leighton Catherine Hartland Ann Bridges Mary Barons All Saints Readers All Saints Readers All Saints Readers All Saints Readers Joyce Chant Brenda Kenny Joan Bird Gerald Weaver Patricia Shorrocks Ann Bridges NFUReaders Mutual All Saints All Saints Readers All Saints Readers All Saints Readers Jenny Paull Catherine Hartland All Saints Readers All Saints Readers TBA TBA All Saints Readers All Saints Readers Martin Cursham Alison Cursham All Saints Readers All Saints Readers Ann Kivett Charlie Carrington All Saints Readers All Saints Readers Mary Leighton Joyce Chant
15th November 2nd Sunday before Advent nd
22 November Christ the King th
29 November Advent Sunday 6th December 2nd Sunday of Advent 13th December 3rd Sunday of Advent 20th December 4th Sunday of Advent 24th December Christmas Eve th
25 December Christmas th
27 December 1st Sunday of Christmas
10.30 am 6.30 pm 10.30 am 6.30 pm 10.30 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm 10.30 am 6.30 pm 10.30 am
TBD 6.30 pm TBA TBA
6.30 pm 11.30 pm 10.30 am 10.30 am 10.30 am 6.30 pm
Isaiah 9:2,6-7 John 1:1-14 Isaiah 9:2,6-7 Luke 2:1-7 Isaiah 9:2,6-7 Luke 2:1-7 Colossians 3:12-17 Luke 2:15-20 Colossians 3:12-17 Luke 2:15-20
OT 595 NT 79 OT 595 NT 50 OT 595 NT 50 NT 182 NT 50 NT 182 NT 50
Will readers of the second lesson for Eucharist services please note that this is the Gospel, which is placed ahead of the sermon and has its own introduction and conclusion sentences.
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ST APLEGROVE L ODGE STAPLEGROVE LODGE Bed & Breakfast Peter and Kim Scott welcome you to our lovely Georgian Home set in 1½ acres. Ideal for visiting relatives
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STAPLEGROVE
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HALL
Large Hall - Smaller Hall - Committee Room available to let for MEETINGS AND PRIVATE PARTIES For details of availability and charges please contact Booking Secretary Mrs. Margaret Taylor Telephone: (01823) 271570
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Letter From the Rectory
November 2009
The end of this month brings with it the beginning of Advent. Advent is a multi-directional time of the year during which we look backwards, forwards, inwards and outwards. This exercise is designed to prepare us – to get us ready – to receive Christ afresh into our lives each and every Christmas, and by and large all things considered it works pretty well! It occurs to me that Advent preparation has to do with healing or better still with wholeness. It also occurs to me that time given over to re-assessing our need for Christ in order to become the sort of people that God intended us to be is time well spent. Therefore, I’d like to offer the following as a kind of pre-Advent reflection: How are you? Answer: I’m all right! There is nothing wrong or the matter with me! -OR- The answer might come in the form of a long list of ailments. Sometimes we feel terrible. There are times when it feels like everything is falling apart up to and including me! Golly-gosh! I need help. I need healing! When it comes to healing we tend to focus primarily on the physical. A broken bone, twisted ankles, aches and pains, etc. But dis-ease is much more than physical disorder. When we consider dis-ease, it is much more “healthy” to open up our lenses and think in terms of “wholeness”. A detailed examination is not necessary to indicate that most of us - most of the time - are less than whole! We are less than complete! We do not always do wholesome things. We do not always eat wholesome food. We do not always think wholesome thoughts. We do not always have wholesome feelings about ourselves or others. We are less than whole. We are less than perfect! Jesus said, “You must be perfect, as your Father in heaven is perfect.” Gollygosh! Now, that’s a tall order by any standard! Perfect is something we are not! We suffer from tensions & divisions from without & within. We frequently seem to be divided and fragmented on numerous fronts. So often we experience and feel more discord than harmony More anxiety, worry and anger than peace More rejection than acceptance More suspicion & resentment than trust And in the extreme, more hatred than love - 36 -
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As individuals and as members of Christ’s body our work is cut out for us. I feel certain that Christ wills his body to be whole. However, there is no-way in heaven or on earth that we can achieve wholeness by or through our own efforts. In and of ourselves we haven’t sufficient will, strength or resources to pull it off! Many of us need to rely less upon ourselves and learn to, and lean upon, God.
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TAUNTON DEANE CROQUET CLUB
My child I’ve waited a long time for this For you to come to the end of yourself You were never meant to struggle in your own strength You are not able, the task is too big But I can do it through you My strength and my resources are endless My love knows no boundaries I have an abundance of all that you need Plus love for yourself and plenty to spare Ann Silvester Wishing you & yours an adventurous Advent
Stephen
Taunton Vale Sports Club Gipsy Lane, Greenway Road Staplegrove, Taunton
19 Parmin Way Taunton, Somerset TA1 2JU
9 9 9 9 9
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Contact: David Bowen 01823 667426 - 35 -
Computer Topics - Care Considerations As a result of two personal disasters recently it seems a goodtime to send out a forceful, albeit repetitive, reminder to take care with your PC or laptop. The first of these, I am not unhappy to own up to was entirely my own fault, perhaps through tiredness or just being too casual. I am sure it is not an unfamiliar experience to most of us who use our PC’s a lot, to receive unsolicited ‘spam’ e-mail. Most is probably directed to the Junk folder and later manually or automatically, depending on your settings, deleted. As it should be. Some, however, is likely to get through one way or another, even if your filter settings are on high. In this case, of course, you may well filter and miss some genuine and relevant e-mail, so it’s a balancing act between what you can accept and what you really need. In my case we had been away for the best part of September and found a hugely cluttered e-mail inbox after our return home. Over the following days I tolerated much of the rubbish as I tried to sort the important from the nonsense. But late one evening, having been setting the Journal file up for November during the day I was clearing spam en masse and missed the ‘delete’ field in the dialogue box, unfortunately clicking on a ‘link’ in the underlying spam e-mail by mistake. As a result of this I was taken to the Viagra home page followed by a site I’d prefer not to mention and then a spurious virus prevention program that listed the 34 different viruses I had now downloaded! Needless to say, I was also invited to buy a ‘platinum erase’ program for $99.75 and buy it on my credit card! These various pages kept cycling despite all my efforts to exit, delete, or run a virus clean up program, because what had happened was that the viruses had infected all the <.exe> files throughout every program on my PC and I couldn’t access or run anything! Fortunately, I “know a man who can” and within a week he had completely restored my PC to its present clean and fully functional state, as it is now, and recovered all my data, which is as near as you can get to approaching a biblical miracle. The moral here is “Do not ever, never ever, open anything on your PC you are not entirely familiar with”. There are ruthless men out there.
October - November 2009 Baptisms 31st October
James Lewis Renwick
1st November
Aila Elizabeth Rawding
May all things belonging to the Spirit live and grow in them Funerals 12th October
Peter Donald Stuart
23rd October
Marjorie Joyce Bond
May they rest in peace and rise in glory through Jesus Christ our Lord
THE CHURCHWARDEN’S COLUMN
The second story is a very common one of sheer accident and misfortune, but preventable. Do not place any drinks or liquids near your PC or laptop. If liquids get spilled into these generally low voltage, high density electronics you are done for. Especially laptops, prone to the very scenario of table top working and concomitant refreshments, which should be banned from a radius of not less than two metres. PC keyboards are less of a problem. It is about the cheapest, replaceable part of your kit, but if the coffee runs down the desk into the desktop don’t expect to be half as lucky as I was, despite my more sinister invasion. Having said all that, keep safe by following those two crucial suggestions and enjoy all your computer has to offer. They are truly remarkable machines. Tom H
I am writing this report on Monday 2nd November and notice how dark the evenings are! Since we changed the clocks, I’m sure those of you who live alone find it very depressing; it makes the evenings seem so long doesn’t it? But the recent colours of the leaves have been quite spectacular this year. Yesterday 30 friends from Norton & Staplegrove enjoyed lunch together at Oake Manor Golf Club which was kindly organised by Iona & Chris Young. We welcome Emily, Andrew & Aila to Staplegrove. Andrew is the Army Chaplin at Norton Manor Camp. We hope you’ll be very happy during your time here. We will be remembering the fallen at our Remembrance Service at St. John’s next Sunday and once again John has kindly erected the Cross of Remembrance outside the bell tower. If any of you would like lifts to and from Church services during the winter please let me know and I’ll try to help. Hope you all keep well and free from nasty colds. Sue D.
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EDITORIAL COMMENT tomhyf@btinternet.com
individual interiors created by This Edition could be a record ‘first’ for the Journal. I am very pleased to have been asked to print a very small selection of poetry by the modern Croatian poet, Tatjana Masinovic. I have little understanding of poetry, but I find that these lines have an emotive ability coupled with a visual sense that conjures with one’s own life experiences. See what you think after reading them, and maybe coming back to them on more than one occasion. According to my sources the circulation of the Journal about equals the national circulation of some poetry publications. Do not be put off by poetry. I am told by a very good friend who has a huge collection of a very diverse nature, that in the broadest terms it should be regarded like the music of words; these short extracts certainly fulfil that criterion. The next edition of the Journal is the Christmas edition, which will be in full colour. Do not let the chance to use your imagination and photographic skills pass by. Here is the opportunity to fully do justice to your article with a colour image of the meeting, to illustrate the text or just enhance the presentation. (Sorry for the split infinitive.) Even a small colour image of clip-art can bring greater attention from readers and immeasurably improve the presentation. Let your imagination go! Now, well in advance of the event let me mention that the January/February editions of the Journal will be combined into one end-of-January edition next year. This will then take us up to the next full colour edition for Easter. It may well require some careful thought and planning by those who submit notices or accounts of society/ group meetings. First, your next items for the December edition must also cover up towards the end of January. After that, the items in the January/February edition must cover the period up to and including mid-March. The March edition will be in full colour and cover the Easter period, Easter Sunday being April 4th. Another good thing that happened this month involved one of our advertisers. As coincidental as it may seem I was talking to a well known and respected Staplegrovian recently about the benefits of using the services where possible provided by those who advertise in the Journal. It then turned out I found myself doing exactly that, and in final discussion with a namesake who provides carpentry services in this area he said, un-prompted, that this was the one publication that had proven most useful in which to advertise. He also mentioned two others that he thought were quite useless. So, well done the Journal; game, set and match to us! Contact me, by phone, by email, by post or via Stephen’s letter box at The Rectory (marked “For the Journal”), for an opportunity to air your views or stories in The Journal. Tom Harris. Copy Deadline. Reports, items and articles need to be in by Monday January 11th for the next edition, which is the Winter edition covering January, February and early March. This will be published and circulated around Sunday 25th January. (There will be no February edition as such). -8-
Paul Car ter Carter The Studio • Elm House • Chip Lane Taunton • TA1 1BZ For an appointment tel • 01823 330404
DESIGNERS GUILD furnishing fabrics wallpaper sofas rugs carpets paint
www.paulcarter.co.uk
STAPLEGROVE POST OFFICE
STAPLEGROVE HAIR CARE of STAPLEGROVE
(props: Elaine & John Bagnall)
YOUR LOCAL STORE
(adjacent to Staplegrove Post Office)
P.O. OPEN 8.45am - 5.30pm MONDAY - FRIDAY 9.00am - 12.30pm SATURDAY
Your very local, friendly UNISEX
Hairdressing Salon
SHOP OPENING HOURS: 6.00am - 10.00pm MONDAY - SATURDAY 7.00am - 10.00pm SUNDAY
For appointments Please call
337786
TEL: 333071 NEWSPAPERS DELIVERED - 33 -
Staplegrove Village Hall Management Committee invite you to a
Quiz Night at Staplegrove Village Hall Saturday 21st November 2009 at 7.30 pm Make up a table of six or come on your own Admission by ticket only (ÂŁ5.00 each) Ploughmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Supper provided Bring your own drinks
GOOD FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY Raffle in aid of Taunton Aid in Sickness Fund
Tickets from: Staplegrove Hair Care Adjacent to Staplegrove Post Office
or telephone: Richard 01823 331666 - 32 -
CLEANING ROTA - November, December 2009 & January 2010 14th November 21st November 28th November 5th December 12th December (No Wedding) 19th December 26th December 2nd January 2010 9th January 16th January 23rd January 30th January
Mrs Albutt & Mrs Thorne Mrs Hayes & Mrs Shorrocks Mrs Clifford & Mrs Jowett Mrs Chant & Mrs Welsher Mrs Morris & Mrs Young Mrs. Hendy & Mrs Thow Mrs Grinter & Mrs Hartland Mrs Coles & Mrs Hall Mrs Sharpe & Mrs. Kenny Mr & Mrs Winchester Mrs Weaver & Mrs Whitmarsh Mr & Mrs Hawkins
COFFEE ROTA - November 2009 - January 2010 3rd Sunday 4th Sunday 5th Sunday 1st Sunday 2nd Sunday 3rd Sunday 4th Sunday 1st Sunday 2nd Sunday 3rd Sunday 4th Sunday
November 15th November 22nd November 29th December 6th December 13th December 20th December 27th January 3rd 2010 January 10th January 17th January 24th
Mrs James & Mrs Darby* All Saints 10.30am Service Miss Slocombe & Mrs Ann Other* Mrs Coombes & Mrs Shorrocks All Saints 10.30am Service All Saints 10.30am Service All Saints 10.30am Service Mrs. Tutty* & Miss Slocombe All Saints 10.30am Service Mrs Connell & Mrs Morris* All Saints 10.30am Service *Please bring 2pts of milk
Reserves Jan Darby 271457 Alison Cursham 451217
Iona Young 276080 Margaret Bennett
Margaret Winchester 282891
If you are unable to be in Church on your duty Sunday, please arrange a change. New Members are always needed to help with the Coffee Rota. If you feel you could give an hour or so half a dozen times a year for this most enjoyable and social activity, please contact Barbara Slocombe either in person, in Church or on 274947.
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COMING EVENTS IN STAPLEGROVE - November, December, January NOV 18 Wed.
7.45
19 Thurs 12.00 24 Tues. 10.30 26 Thurs 7.30
Women’s Men’s Soc. Evergreens History Soc.
Sugar Craft Carol Foster Lunch Meeting Coffee Morning Rural Somerset in 19th C - Janet Tall, S. Records Off.
Mary Mercer
Walter Hardie
Allerford Inn 8 Lewis Rd Mary Mercer
m. 07833453737 T. 01823 279811
GAS SAFE REGISTRATION 500486 CORGI MEMBER
DEC 1 2 3 8 10 10 15 16
BOILER SERVICING AND REPAIRS NATURAL GAS AND LPG BOILER REPLACEMENT
Tues 10.30 Wed. 7.45 Thurs. 7.30 Tues. 12.30 Thurs. 11.00 Thurs. 7.30 Tues. 2.45 Wed. 7.45
Beat Surgery Women’s Mother’s Un. Evergreens Mother’s Un. Men’s Soc. Evergreens Women’s
and Coffee Morning Coffee Evening Advent Reflections Christmas Lunch Pram Service Christmas Meeting Carol Service Christmas Party
Mary Mercer T.B.A. Church Tom Fraser Church Mary Mercer Church Mary Mercer
JAN. 2010 5 Tues. 10.30
Beat Surgery
And Coffee Morning
Mary Mercer
NEW MEMBERS AND VISITORS are always very welcome at any Society or Group meeting or coffee morning or evening. CONTACTS Full details of contacts for the above groups can be found on the inside front cover.
ABBEY HEATING SERVICES (TAUNTON) LTD
TEL: 01823 33 33 32 www.daveterrell.co.uk 55 AVILL CRESCENT, TAUNTON, SOMERSET TA1 2PL mobile: 07811 16 68 29 email: dave@daveterrell.co.uk •NEW CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS & UPGRADES • GENERAL PLUMBING • COMPLETE BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS • APPROVED GAS INSTALLER • FREE ESTIMATES • BOILER REPAIRS & SERVICING • QUALITY WORKMANSHIP
STAPLEGROVE BRANCH Operation Christmas Child - a Project of Samaritan’s Purse. Thank you to all who have signed up to fill a box this year. They need to be in church by 15th November but there will still be time the following week so give me a ring and I will collect your box. There will be a full report in the December Journal. Alison Cursham. Tel: 451217 - 10 -
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Police Community Information A message from your Safer Stronger Neighbourhood Inspector Dear Resident I thought I’d take this opportunity to write in your local magazine, and introduce myself, having recently undertaken the role of Neighbourhood Inspector responsible for your area. Previously I have worked across all stations within the West Somerset District, and in North Somerset at Weston-Super-Mare. Prior to this I was performing the same role in the Neighbourhood Area of Burnham-on-Sea. My professional experience is predominantly Crime and Response based, in both these areas, working very closely with the Communities and our Partners, tackling the challenges faced. I am delighted to be taking this current role, and hope to build upon the excellent work of my predecessors. Total crime across the Neighbourhood Area is down on previous years, with marked reductions in violent crime, dwelling burglary and criminal damage. My personal goal, and that of my Team, is to make your Neighbourhood Area the highest performing, safest, most confident and satisfied community in which to live work and visit. In line with our Policing Pledge to you, ways I intend to achieve this, amongst many others, are by: · · · ·
STAPLEGROVE WOMEN’S GROUP The Staplegrove Women’s Group held their AGM, with refreshments, on 21st October where a new Committee was elected and the new leader is Mrs Marion Coombes. We look forward to another interesting year of speakers, outings and coffee evenings, the next evening meeting being on 18 November in the Mary Mercer Room at the Village Hall at 7:45pm where our speaker will be Carol Foster who will tell us all about “Sugarcraft”. We look forward to seeing all old and new members on that date. Pamela Sharpe
EVERGREEN GROUP A large and appreciative audience met in the Village Hall on October 13th for a return visit from Tony Bagwell. After his opening talk, updating us on the work of Clic Sargent, Tony treated us to another of his enthralling photographic shows entitled “Fading Images.” He began with “A Year on Sedgemoor” with beautiful pictures accompanied by very fitting background music. He continued with a visit to Pyrland Farm and farm shop, followed by a winter train journey to Switzerland and ended with a set of closeup photographs of flowers. After an excellent vote of thanks given by Patricia Shorrocks members added to the group donation, bringing Tony’s personal contribution to Clic Sargent to over £11,000. The October coffee morning was held at Margaret Rolt’s home in Wyndham Road when twelve members enjoyed a social get-together and chat.
Continuing and developing our Partners and Communities Together (PACT) Process, encouraging all sections of the community to become involved, and influence our direction. Providing you with continual, sustainable, timely and visible results on the priorities directly affecting you. Providing regular and specific feedback on how we are, and are going to, achieve this. Ensuring we target, and wherever, possible bring to justice those persons who negatively impact upon others.
As members of our community your involvement and contribution to achieving the above has been fundamental to the successes already achieved, and I thank you greatly for this, and look forward to your continued support over the coming years. I look forward to members of my team regularly updating you via this media and many more. Kind regards Inspector 1406 Samuel Williams
Elizabeth Hall
The Will Aid Scheme The Diocese has asked me to bring this scheme to your attention. It provides an opportunity for you to write, or update your Will and support leading charities at the same time. The way it works is that participating solicitors write straight-forward Wills for free during November in return for a donation to the nine Will Aid charities; (Action Aid, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Help the Aged, NSPCC, Save the Children UK, SCIAF, Sightsavers International and Trocaire).
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Although there is no obligation for donors to leave any gifts to charities in Wills written under this scheme it is hoped that you might consider including a gift to the church. The suggested donation is £75 for a single Will and £110 for a couple and a simple codicil to an existing Will, £40 – excellent value for money. Donations can be gift aided adding an extra 28% for the charities.
Your local landscaping service Block Paving Driveway and Patio Specialists Also Garden Design Fencing - Walling - Turfing - Timber Decking
Local participating solicitors in Taunton are: Andrew Rugg, 5 Hammet St, ring 326 822, Broomhead and Saul, 11 Hammet St, ring Andrew Lewis 288 121 or Everys, 12 Hammet St, ring Frank Murray on 337 636 ….and there are others around Somerset that can be found on the Will Aid website home page www.willaid.org.uk or speak to me for more information – my contact details are inside the front cover.
HARRIS WOODWORKS
Last year the scheme raised a record of nearly £1m in donations. Contact one of them now, the offer is only available in November and time is running short! The solicitor can help you include your family and your church family and by doing so you will be supporting some very worthwhile charities.
All aspects of Carpentry undertaken Handmade Joinery in hardwood & softwood Over 25 years experience 46 Whitmore Road Telephone Taunton 01823 283082 TA2 6DZ 07866 213559
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Churchyard Matters – November 2009 Some good news, some bad news The bad news - Yes another vandal attack this time our remaining lead flashings were targeted and stolen along with mindless damage to the porch and boiler house. Fortunately the security of the Church prevented any entry but a fire extinguisher was set off and did cause a mess which we were able to clean up before a planned funeral. The perpetrators of this damage risked life and limb for a paltry sum of cash, the Church would have faced a hefty sum of cash had it rained. Repairs were carried out immediately and all remaining lead is “marked” and traceable. Good News – Church footpath lighting. We have secured funds, thank you Community fund and the Parish Council. We are now repairing and replacing faulty cabling and lighting along the footpath and into the car park. As autumn gathers pace those beautiful leaves so admired fall! Leaf collecting and storing has been taking place, thanks to all who have helped in this task but plenty more to fall! Tree pruning has also taken place which has lightened up the porch area. Horse Chestnut trees throughout Europe are being attacked by a leaf miner, we have two large trees along the avenue and others dotted about the Churchyard but the jury - 12 -
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THE STAPLEGROVE TRUST If you, your neighbours or your friends are in NEED, HARDSHIP or DISTRESS please write to: The Secretary, THE STAPLEGROVE TRUST 17 Lawn Road, Staplegrove, Taunton TA2 6EH. The Staplegrove Trust helps families and individuals who live in Staplegrove, including all the Bindon Road estate and Staplegrove Road north of the railway bridge. The Staplegrove Trust in a Registered Charity
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is out on the severity of this disease, we await further information on the future of all our Horse Chestnut trees.
The Third Way On Its Way Somerset County Council has announced that construction is about to start on the long awaited Taunton Third Way. Construction of the new road and river crossing will begin in late November 2009 with the route scheduled to open in December 2010. The road will pass through the existing Greenbrook Terrace car park, which will be closed permanently from mid to late November this year. The road scheme will provide a new north-south route adjacent to the town centre, including a new bridge over the River Tone, with the aim of relieving town centre congestion and improving access to the Tangier area. The completion of the Third Way may also enable future ‘pedestrian only’ zones or restricted access in the town centre at certain times of the day. The works will also include improvements to the existing Wood Street / Bridge Street junction. In order to minimise disruption to traffic, Somerset County Council has worked with the contractors to ensure works on this junction are not programmed until after the Christmas period. Cllr Anthony Trollope-Bellew, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member Environment said: ”This new route will bring many benefits to Taunton by improving the environment for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users within the main shopping streets of the town. Somerset County Council will work closely with the contractors to keep disruption to a minimum.” The scheme includes the following works:
• • • • • •
Construction of a new bridge over the River Tone to the west of Goodlands Gardens; Construction of a new bridge over the Mill Stream to replace the existing temporary bridge; Construction of approximately 150m of new carriageway together with the realignment of a further 300m of carriageway; Two new signalised junctions along the route; Improvements to the existing Bridge Street/Wood Street junction and The provision of pedestrian and cycle facilities throughout the scheme.
Construction of the new road and river crossing will be carried out by contractors Morrison Construction. People who work in and visit the town centre will be soon able to use the new Taunton Gateway Park & Ride bus service, which will be operating from mid November on the east side of Taunton adjacent to J25 of the M5. For further information please contact Jan Hookings or Elizabeth Kulh, Press Officers, on 01823 355020. - 28 -
The East gate has been removed for repair/replacement/ a re-think. All users of the footpath are reminded that cycling is not allowed. The PCC cannot be held responsible for any accidents or incidents. The Car Park. All users are reminded that this is a private Car park and the PCC cannot be held responsible for any accidents or incidents. It is proposed that suitable signs be erected soon, on the footpath and in the car park. Once again whilst meandering through the Churchyard and observing anything unusual do report it to; 08454567000 or the PCSO 07920450435 (Put these numbers in your mobile address book; you never know when they may be useful - but in an emergency call 999) John K
NEWS FROM THE TOWER.
I have found, over the years, that e-mail can be just as exciting as opening an ordinary letter. There’s always the unexpected. And this was never truer than very recently when I received a ‘forwarded’ e-mail from Stephen from someone enquiring about our bells. In essence this person was researching his family history and had, somehow, latched upon the fact that in our book on the history of the bells there is mention of the family who actually cast these bells in the 1600’s. He believes that he may well be related to this family, which is something of a surprise to him, as he originally thought that they had not arrived in England until the early 18th century. It was a great pleasure to be able to despatch a copy of the book to him, together with more detail of the sources that I had researched in writing it, which would be of value to him. No sooner was this done than by return by Royal Mail came a donation to the ringers ‘for a bottle or two of cider’ and the remainder to the church! I thought to myself, “There may not be too much left by the time the ringers have got well into their cider”! But he obviously appreciated the tradition of the social side of ringing as well as the ecclesiastical. What a really generous and very kind gesture. - 13 -
I guess once one, as a genealogist, has discovered a family occupation, especially 400 years ago, there is a good chance that it will lead one deeper into the family history. Sons so often followed their fathers simply by learning from watching as a youngster as soon as one could walk. It certainly appeared that way as far as our bell-founders were concerned. The beauty of this is, of course, that the very names, or at the least the initials, are to be found in the inscriptions on the bells themselves, usually with the dates when the bells were cast, as in the case of our 3rd bell here. These are even more weather resistant than grave stones and can be just as, or even more, descriptive. As an historical record church bells are amongst the best and most certain of archives, though mistakes of spelling are well recorded. Bit of a ‘blooper’ if you’ve just cast a ton of bell and got your own name wrong!
Ladies Health & Beauty Clinic
A lot of people have researched church bells, their founders, foundries, inscriptions and rhymes, together with the related tangential topics. There’s a whole chapter, for example, in one history about the names of Saints inscribed on bells, another about the various motifs that individual bell founders used as a signature. So if you’re lucky enough to have, or be related to, a line of bell founders you should have no difficulty in tracing your family tree right back at least to the 1500’s. And I imagine that that is exactly what Ivor Purdue is doing right now, now that he has discovered our George and his family, originally from Closworth near Yeovil. Thank you very much, Ivor, for your kind thoughts. Here’s a Christmas toast in mulled cider to ‘The Purdue Family’.
Established 1988
CLAIRE HULL MSBTh, BABTAC ‘Fairoake’, Rectory Road Staplegrove, Taunton TA2 6EL
(01823) 351888
Tom Harris
Women’s Aid
Higher Yarde Farm
As is usual we are asking you and your friends to think of those in the Refuge this Christmas. Cleaning materials of all kinds are appreciated as are dried foods and gift vouchers for shops such as Boots, Marks and Spencer and Morrison’s or tokens for the Odeon cinema or Hollywood Bowl. These can be brought to church from the beginning of December and up to 20th December. I have a more detailed list which I will put up in the church porch notice board or give me a ring. Thank you for remembering these families this Christmas. Alison [451217]
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FREE QUOTATIONS CALL 01823 288445 or 07816 230137
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Bridge Report Duplicate Bridge is a popular activity at Staplegrove Village Hall with three sessions each week - Monday and Tuesday evenings commencing at 7pm and Tuesday afternoons at 1.15pm. In duplicate bridge the cards are dealt at the start of play and the score is determined by comparison with other scores on the same deal. This eliminates much of the luck associated with being dealt good (or bad!) cards throughout a session. Taunton Deane Bridge Club is run by Staplegrove residents, Janet and Chris Jones and meets on Monday evenings. The club has long been established in Staplegrove and regularly attracts 15 or more tables. (Contact Janet on 01823 451665 for more details). Taunton Duplicate Bridge Circle is run by Marjorie and John Dilworth and meets on Tuesday evenings. The club also meets on Thursday evenings in Taunton and has some of the top county players amongst its membership. (Contact Marjorie on 01823 272512 for more details). Wilton Bridge Club is run by a committee of its members and meets on Tuesday afternoons. The club moved to Staplegrove in 2006 from premises in Wilton Street, hence its name. It also has sessions in Oake on Wednesday evenings and Friday afternoons. Inexperienced players and those new to duplicate bridge are particularly welcome on a Friday afternoon. (Contact Pam Skelton 01823 326417 or Anne Harris 01823 400578 for more details).
TAUNTON FUNERAL SERVICE ALEC JAMES, Dip.FMA, FD, MBIFD 55 Bridge Street, Taunton
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Taunton West District Guiding The Brownies enjoyed a holiday at Huish Woods during October, where they experienced archery, caving, orienteering and a blindfold trail as well as enjoying evening campfire singsongs – thank you to the Scout Leaders for providing this during their training weekend! The photograph shows some of our girls practising their archery skills! We had beautiful weather all weekend. Most of the units in the District have started their Adventure 100 challenge, which covers 10 different themes and has to be carried out over the year. One Brownie Pack has mastered the hand chimes, and another is visiting Monkton Elm garden Centre Ice World. The Leaders in the district have thought about adapting the challenge for ourselves and this will be planned before Christmas!! The units are also getting involved in the Girlguiding story gathering project. At the moment we are getting the girls to find out who they know who has been involved in Guiding, looking at old uniforms and understanding more about the origins of the movement. This is all done in a fun way, for example when looking at the different decades we might focus on the music of the time – from the charlston through to X factor, or we might look at favourite books over the decades and how they have changed. It is our aim eventually to invite some real ‘old’ brownies along to meetings to be interviewed. If you think you might like to be part of this project then please give me a ring and sometime in the new year we will arrange for either you to come to a meeting, or for a few of us to visit you. The stories are being collated by Girlguiding UK.
Smokey Angus Locally Farmed Aberdeen Angus Beef Our cattle are all home bred from our traditional Aberdeen Angus cows and their offspring. They are reared naturally on clover rich grass and maize that you see growing in the fields around the village. They are subject to the highest standards of welfare and veterinary supervision on our assured farm. They are slaughtered on a neighbouring farm in a stress free environment and the meat is hung and butchered in the traditional manner before being personally delivered to your door.
Tel/Fax: 01823 451298
Mobile: 07050 646907
You might remember me writing about the Changing the World projects that all the units were involved in during the run up to the centenary. Wellsprings Brownies won the UNICEF campaign challenge as part of this project and during half term enjoyed a fun creative afternoon with a representative from UNICEF. The girls made posters of their 3 key messages from their project, to talk about HIV and AIDS, to not leave out people because they have HIV and AIDS and that all children should have access to the necessary medicine. The posters have been photographed and the girls will be featured on the new UNICEF website TAGd.
m: 07973 564759
Taunton West District are in the initial planning stages for their District Centenary Event. Anyone who has been involved in a leadership role in Taunton West is invited - 16 -
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The one story that is different was submitted by Elizabeth Hall. She chose to write, not about her grandparents, but about her late husband, David’s grandfather. This is fitting as the original idea came from David. He only envisaged a discussion but I think he would have been pleased to have seen his idea translated into book form. The booklet is free to members but I hope it will appeal to others – find out where your friends came from! It costs just £1.00 and is available from me.
Unit 4, 5, Ford Farm, Bradford On Tone Taunton, Somerset. TA4 1HS Telephone: 01823 461882 Mobile: 07885 787880 Out of hours: 01823 461144
Patricia Shorrocks
Perfection Pools is a new swimming pool company, however we have 14 years experience in the business. We offer a unique “out of hours service”, meaning we can normally be available at our premises within 10 minutes of a request for supplies. We also offer a fantastic delivery service (locally free of charge). For more information please give us a call on the above numbers or visit our website www.perfectionpools.co.uk
A Fish Story A guy who lives at Round Lake, Sask., 50 miles South of Yorkton, saw a ball bouncing around kind of strangely in the lake and went to investigate. It turned out to be a flathead catfish who had obviously tried to swallow a basketball which had become stuck in its mouth!!
OSTEOPATHY JACQUELINE WALSH D.O. Registered Osteopath
MARK WALSH D.O. Registered Osteopath
4 St. John’s Road Taunton Somerset TA1 4AZ Tel: 01823 277287 The fish was totally exhausted from trying to dive, but unable to because the ball would always bring him back up to the surface. The guy tried numerous times to get the ball out, but was unsuccessful. He finally had his wife cut the ball in order to deflate it and release the hungry catfish. You probably wouldn’t have believed this, if you hadn’t seen these pictures...
Warwick House Medical Centre Upper Holway Road Taunton, Somerset TA1 2YJ Tel: 01823 282147
For professional care and treatment of back and neck pain, sciatica, sports injuries and joint pains M.J. and J.H.Walsh Ltd. .
Be kinder than necessary. ‘Cause everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle. With thanks to Ann Bridges and others.
TAUNTON SUZUKI GROUP QUALITY VIOLIN PLAYING MUSICAL ABILITY DEVELOPED THROUGH INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP LESSONS, WITH ENJOYMENT
“Every child can.....” There are a few vacancies for younger beginners Enquiries to Mary Trewin Tel: 01823 271260 - 24 -
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to come along. It will be on Saturday 22nd May 2010 from 4 to 5.30pm and will involve a small concert by the girls followed by the lighting of fire sculptures and camp fire, sing song and cake. Please keep this date free in your diary and make sure you let anyone know who could come along, especially if they don’t get this journal. I will be advertising all over the district in the New Year and I hope we can include as many of the past leaders as possible. With the centenary year celebrations already starting, this is an exciting time to join Girlguiding UK. To discover more about what is happening in your neighbourhood then please give me a ring! I look forward to hearing from you! Tina Brownlow, District Commissioner, Taunton West, Tel 288428
A School Report with a difference! Extract from the Somerset County Gazette, May 21st 1926.
STAPLEGROVE LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
SLHS Twenty-four members were present at the AGM held on 22nd October. The retiring Chairman, Patricia Shorrocks, reported on a successful year with a varied and interesting programme, but a year when the society was saddened by the deaths of former chairman, Flossie Bradbury-Williams, and Secretary John Wright. A year ago members had spoken of memories of their grandparents, and this led to a printed booklet entitled “Grandparents Remembered”, available for the first time at this, the 25th Anniversary meeting of the society. A new committee was elected :- Chairman - Claudine Tyson, Secretary - Grace Griffin, Programme secretaries - Peggy Jenkins & Patricia Shorrocks, Treasurer John Porter, Committee members - John Kenny & Patricia Dening. Member Tom Davies gave a descriptive and amusing talk on The Battle of Agincourt when Henry V had insisted on rigorous training of his soldiers in the use of the long bow, which had played such an important part in the satisfactory result for England. During supper, a presentation was made to Patricia Shorrocks to mark the society’s appreciation and thanks for her unstinting work throughout the twenty-five years since its foundation in 1984 Elizabeth Hall
Empire Day at Staplegrove School. Empire Day, falling this year on Whit Monday, the headmistress, Miss Goode, decided to celebrate the day on Friday last. The schoolroom was gaily decorated with tricoloured flowers, the kind gift of Mrs Napier Clavering, bunting and flags, which presented a very gay appearance and was admired. The programme was as follows, Hymn, Song, Miss Goode. Recitation, Song, Tableau, Recitation, Song, Recitation, Recitation, Song, Recitation, Recitation, Recitation, Song,
“O God our Help in Ages past.” “England.” Upper School Address, “Our Empire.” “Britons hold your Own.” Doris Greedy. “The Cuckoo.” Infants and Standard One. “Our Empire.” Dick Pring, Fred Lloyd with attendants “The Torch of Life.” Leslie Rendall. “God Bless the Prince of Wales.” Upper School. “The Flag is Passing By.” Leslie Pillar. “Poems of The Empire.” Infants and Standard One. “Land of Hope and Glory.” Upper School. “The Sleepy Land.” May Bellamy. “O My Mummy.” Jean Bond. “My Land.” Vera Manley. “Jerusalem.”
After singing the National Anthem, the children saluted the flag. Cheers were then called for Mrs Napier Clavering for her kind gift of flowers and these were heartily given. In the course of her address Miss Goode told the children that they belonged to a great Empire on which the sun never sets and they should all be proud to be - 18 -
The Local History Society celebrated its 25th anniversary in October. To mark the occasion its members combined to write a booklet entitled ‘Grandparents Remembered’. Understandably, not all members could contribute because they could not remember any grandparents. But twenty did write an account recalling perhaps one grandparent and, sometimes, the full set of four. There is only one truly Staplegrove memory but there are three for Taunton, all of which recall trade in past times, and six for rural Somerset. The rest show we are a diverse lot in origin with roots in Scotland, London, Devon, Lancashire, Yor kshire, Nottinghamshire and Sussex. Occupations were equally varied; from agriculture, trade, shop keeping, the postal service, the army and navy to domestic service and manufacturing. There was also a stonemason, a train driver as well as a gunpowder car ter and a blacksmith. Large families were common, indicating a lack of birth control. Sadly, there were also childhood deaths and one accident, reflecting the lack of safety provision. Living to a ripe old age is not a modern phenomenon: it was not uncommon for our grandparents to live into their nineties or even over one hundred. Grandfathers predominate; grandmothers are often remembered as stiff backed and wearing black, determined to pass on domestic skills to their granddaughters. - 23 -
Untitled
members of it. Children in the school today were the men and women of the future and it was up to them to uphold their heritage.
In the eye of the sea Reflections multiply. Its splendour draws me close I forget the dangers of the deep And its underwater rocks.
Extract from the Somerset County Gazette, July 17th 1926. Staplegrove School The following is the report of the examination in religious knowledge made by the Revd, J.D. Gedge, Diocesan Inspector, following his visit to the school on 9th inst. “This school, in regard to religious knowledge as a whole, continues to produce in both groups uniformly excellent results. Discipline and tone are exemplary; the children enjoy their instruction and treat it with reverence and reality. Repetition is accurate and well emphasised, written work is neat and shows in the upper standards that the children are taught the lessons underlying Bible stories. All the answering is marked by understanding and good sense. For these most satisfactory results, both teaching staff and children are highly to be commended.”
Untitled The sea Shimmering and flickering Travels Yet here remains Like our thoughts of someone dear.
With thanks to Alec Bowditch, who probably endured something not unlike this.
From In the Garden of My Silences Untilted
STAPLEGROVE PARISH JOURNAL
A word can Like lightening By an invisible thread Scar the soul And the same wound A word can soothe.
The Journal is published on behalf of the Church of St John the Evangelist, Staplegrove, Parochial Church Council. Eleven editions are produced annually, priced at 50p each, or a subscription for a full calendar year is £5. To subscribe and have your copy delivered monthly except August, or sent by post, please contact Mrs Janet Darby, 01823 271457
Staplegrove Strollers We have arranged the following walk:Friday 20th November 10.30am Church Car Park. Walk to Kingston St Mary. Lunch at The Swan and return. Some can walk from Burlands others from Nailsbourne or meet us at the Swan. I have booked lunch for 12.30 so let me know if you would like me to book you in for lunch. Alison (451217)
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All articles for publication are welcomed by the Editor and should be directed as detailed on the contacts page inside front cover, or as below. The Editor reserves the right to decline to publish any item considered unsuitable for a magazine of this nature. All copy and advertising is accepted in good faith, but publication of any item does not necessarily represent or reflect the views of the PCC or Journal Editor. Editor, Tom Harris, Higher Yarde Farm, Staplegrove, Taunton TA2 6SW Email: tomhyf@btinternet.com or tel; 01823 451553 The Journal is printed by WessexMalthouse, Frobisher Way, Taunton. TA2 6BB
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STAPLEGROVE PARISH COUNCIL www.staplegroveparish.co.uk
Since my last report the Parish Council (PC) has: -
Paid for improvements to a narrow stretch of the footpath on the south side of Manor Road, running from Manor Drive towards the post box. The contractor has done an excellent job and we now have a much wider pavement.
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Ordered a new seat for the Hudson Way playground, which will be paid for by the PC.
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Received confirmation from County Councilor Elaine Waymouth that she will be contributing £2000 from her Community Budget to help towards the cost of the Manor Road footpath improvements and the new seat in the Hudson Way playground.
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Responded to a request from the Church to help with the cost of renewing/upgrading their external lighting that had recently deteriorated and failed. The PC approached County Councilor Elaine Waymouth who has agreed to contribute £250 towards the cost. As the lighting is for the benefit, not only of church goers, but the many parishioners who use the footpath through the churchyard on a daily basis, at all times of the day because of the lack of footpath on the main road, the PC felt that it was fitting that it should meet the remaining costs. Agreed to a site meeting in November with First Bus Company and representatives from Somerset Highways and Transporting Somerset to discuss the issues concerning the bus company not using the sheltered bus stop opposite the junction of Showell Park. Although it was not guaranteed that this would provide the solution we would like the meeting would give us the opportunity to discuss the issues and explore any possible solutions that might be identified as a result.
As usual could I please remind you that a coffee morning and beat surgery is held in the Mary Mercer Room, Staplegrove Village Hall, on the first Tuesday of every month. It is a great opportunity to speak to the police face to face and have a chat with others. The Chairman of the PC and myself regularly attend, so if you have any issues you can speak to us. The sessions are from 10.30 am to 12 noon and tea and biscuits cost 50p. Pop in any time. You would be made most welcome.
By the time you read this article we will have held the next meeting of the PC, followed by a meeting of the Staplegrove Children’s Playground Trust. I will report back on the meetings in my next report. Please note that parishioners are invited to attend both Staplegrove PC meetings and those of the Staplegrove Children’s Playground Trust and are welcome to ask questions. Minutes of both meetings and their accounts are available for inspection by members of the public. If you would like to view them please give me a ring. The PC minutes and accounts are also on the parish website. To view a guide to the information available from the PC to members of the public and the PC’s Equal Opportunities Policy, please look on the parish notice boards, visit the parish website or give me a ring. Janice Peake, Clerk, 62 Dowell Close, Taunton. Telephone 251034. Email - peakefamily@btinternet.com
November Poetry Corner
by Tatjana Masinovic
Born in 1938, the Croatian poet, Tatjana Masinovic is a native of Split. After taking a degree in philosophy at the University of Zadar, she spent her working life as a teacher of Croatian language and literature. Her first book of poetry, “Invisible Threads” was published in 1994, followed six years later by a second collection, “Sometimes Things Turn Out Differently.” These translations by Dubravka Yarwood and George Hendry are the first of her poetry in English. From
‘The Sea’
The Stone, The Sea and I I long quietly For far-off places And pinewoods For seashore alongside beaches For sea-scent And tranquillity And the intoxicating sun. The stone, the sea and I Will be as one And burn hungrily. Our nourishment, the coolness of the air. Our fire Like a comfort Sweeping around us.
The Annual Meeting will elect Churchwardens, Parochial Church Councillors, Sidesmen and, this year, Deanery Synod representatives; nomination forms are in the Church porch. - 20 -
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Please forward completed forms to a member of the Churchwardens team or to the PCC Secretary, Chris Young, 1 Lawn Road, Staplegrove, TA2 6EH