BLAGDON NEWSLETTER JUNE 2024

photos were taken by Siobhan Watson

Rory, Aidan, George, Ruby, Bella, Abi

Rory, Aidan, George, Ruby, Bella & AbiBlagdon Scouts completing the Ten Tors challenge on Dartmoor

What's going on this month....

We've some good news on the transport front. Following North Somerset's abrupt cancellation of their Churchill roundabout consultation, we now hear that the scheme has been deferred; read into that what you will. Months of disruption and the best part of £3 million for very little benefit (at the Barrow Gurney A38 junction the buses don't even use the lanes supposedly there to speed their journey) seems a pretty poor deal. However, on a far more positive note, work is currently in progress to re-align the roads at the Miner's Arms junction on the way to Wells. This notorious blackspot will cease to be a crossroads as the minor roads approaching it will be staggered, which will hopefully go a long way to sorting out this dangerous crossroads (see page 25).

Some more good news - the Seymour Arms has re-opened. Taking my duties as editor very seriously, I visited on the day of opening, and can thoroughly recommend the warm welcome from the new landlords (and the Brooklyn IPA they have on draught). I am sure we all hope that they are able to make a better go of the business than the last two operators of this landmark pub. (page 26)

The annual Parish Meeting for Blagdon was poorly publicised and the result was that precisely three members of the public were present, including myself. I felt that the outline of the work of the parish council presented to the meeting did deserve a wider audience and so have included most of it this month's edition - worth reading if you want to find out how they are spending our money. (page 28)

If you are interested in the past, then our local history society has arranged a serious of walks around our village – well worth signing up (disclaimer – I'm leading some of them so somewhat biased) and also a conducted tour of the stone circle just down the road from us at Stanton Drew. (page 11)

We've got some interesting photos of Blagdon's fete – congratulations to the new committee in running such a successful event. We believe about £5,000 was raised for local good causes, although the exact figure was not available as we went to press. (page 20) We had wanted to include details of the Blagdon Playing Field Association's plans for the Mead and pictures of their fundraising event up at Yeo Valley HQ, but hopefully they will be available next month.

Finally, congratulations to the young people from Blagdon who successfully completed the Ten Tors challenge on Dartmoor. One team is pictured on our cover, whilst we would also like to mention Joe, Tommi, Charlie and Dan from Blagdon who were in another successful team. This is a great experience for those who take part. Another worthwhile opportunity, for young people to work with and learn about the Mendip AONB, can be found on page 25.

Ken Parsons, Editor

Who we are: Blagdon Newsletter, together with News from Ubley, is published by The Parochial Church Council of All Saints, North Mendip, in order to provide useful information to our communities. We welcome contributions of both local and general interest. Provided that the material is suitable and space is available, every effort will be made to include it. Contributors should take reasonable steps to ensure that their article is factually correct and that any necessary copyright permissions have been obtained. Any photos which show children should have parental permission to allow their use. Articles may be edited and photos cropped at the editor's discretion.

The views expressed in the magazine are those of the individual contributors and are not endorsed by the publisher. All information is published in good faith and while we try to ensure that details are correct, no liability expressed or implied is accepted for any statements made. All contributions for publication should be sent to us on or before the 20th of the month preceding publication. Please address any questions or send your copy to either: blagdonnewsletter@gmail.com or ubleynews@btinternet.com.

The Parish of All Saints North Mendip, a new beginning

On the 1st of April 2023 the two parishes of Blagdon with Charterhouse and Ubley were united to form the new parish of All Saints North Mendip.

As a result, on the the evening of the 20th May 2024 members of St Andrew’s Church, Blagdon with St Hugh’s Church, Charterhouse, and members of St Bartholomew’s Church, Ubley met in Ubley for a joint meeting to approve Reports and Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2023.

28 parishioners were at the meeting which was led by Charles Fenn and the Reverend Katrina Dykes. Members present were from both Ubley and Blagdon.

The Annual Report and Financial Statements were accepted and copies will be found in St Andrew’s Church and St Bartholomew’s Church.

Flowers were presented to two Churchwardens from St Bartholomew’s, Judith Longhurst and Diana Coles who have given great service and are now retiring. They were very warmly thanked.

Christie Peacock from Ubley was then welcomed as a new churchwarden.

Lighting up the sky – church tower illumination

The lighting up of St Andrew's Church tower will commemorate: June 21 in loving memory of Peter Marsh

The sight of the tower of Blagdon Church lit up against the night sky is inspiring. Anybody in Blagdon can sponsor this illumination to commemorate any significant event in your life, for just £5 to help cover the cost. Please contact Sarah Parsons on 01761 462371 or sarparsons@aol.com

Sunday 2nd 10am

Benefice Worship in June

Holy Communion

St Andrew’s, Blagdon

6:30pm Evensong St Laurence, East Harptree

Sunday 9th 10am Lay led service St Bartholomew's, Ubley

10:30am Holy Communion St Mary's, West Harptree

Sunday 16th 10am Family Communion with children's activities St Michael's, Compton Martin

Sunday 23rd 9:30am Breakfast Church St Andrew’s, Blagdon

10:30am Lay led service St Laurence, East Harptree 5pm Iona Communion St Bartholomew's, Ubley

Sunday 30th 10am Holy Communion St Hugh's, Charterhouse

10:30am Holy Communion St Margaret's, Hinton Blewett

6:30pm Evensong St Laurence, East Harptree

Sunday 7th July 10am Holy Communion St Andrew’s, Blagdon

10:30am Lay led service St Laurence, East Harptree

Regular Weekday Services

Mondays 8:40am Morning Prayer St Bartholomew’s, Ubley 9:15am Intercessions St Bartholomew's, Ubley

Other Regular Activities

Tuesdays

Termtime only 10:30am Mini Melodies

Wednesdays termtime only

Saturday 8th June

Friday 3th June

St Andrew’s, Blagdon Songs & activities for preschool children

3:30pm 4:30pm 10am to noon Ukelele Band

2:30 to 4:15pm

St Andrew’s, Blagdon

For information contact rachel.branson@gmail.com

Choir practice St Andrew's, Blagdon

Coffee Stop Blagdon Village Club

Meet up for coffee and a chat

Thank Cake It's Friday Old Schoolroom, Compton Martin An opportunity for people to have a cup of tea, cake and a chat

From our Rector

How lovely it is to sit here writing the June magazine article with the sun shining outside, looking forward to four months of long, sunny, warm summer days!

We have much to look forward to in the coming weeks: days out, barbecues and picnics, dips in the sea and lazy holidays, strawberries and cream, ice cold rosé and delicious ice-creams. There will be those eagerly anticipating a summer of sport: Euro 24, Wimbledon, the Tour de France, Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games, as well as those who will enjoy being out in the garden or tramping the beautiful countryside.

There will be those of you reading this who will be thinking – yeah well we’ll see! It’ll probably be another summer wash out, days rained off and, ‘you won’t get me in the sea round the coast of Britain – its freezing!’ England won’t get through the group stages of the Euros, there’ll be stories of drug doping in the athletics and there’ll probably be a hosepipe ban!

Who knows? There are those of us who are eternal optimists and those who don’t like to set our expectations too high, in case we are disappointed. There are those who look for the best in any circumstance and those who will only see the negatives.

I am not a great journaler (apparently this is a real word!), but I do reflect back at the end of each day using a five year journal. There is a page for each day of the year and each page is divided into five small sections, one section per year. Each section has space enough for a sentence or two only. Thus, on any day I can see what I wrote in previous years on that day. It is interesting not only to be reminded of what happened, but also how I interpreted and recorded it at the time. Like anyone I’ve had good days and bad; days when I’ve flown and others when I’ve crashed and burned. Days when people were kind to me, and days when I felt the world was against me. We can’t be happy all the time.

The Bible doesn’t set personal happiness as a goal in life, but it does advocate thankfulness in all circumstances. The Psalmist in the Old Testament: ‘I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.’ (Psalm 34:1). Paul in the New Testament: ‘In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.’ (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Even on the darkest days there is something to give thanks for, even when we don’t feel thankful; the unconditional love of a family member or friend, the care of medical staff, food to eat, somewhere to sleep, some beauty in the world around us and I would say the knowledge of a God who loves us and is for us.

If you don’t set much store by The Bible, try typing ‘gratitude’ into Google! You’ll find a host of sites advocating the benefits of gratitude, from helping with sleep and combating stress to having healthier immune systems and more friends!

Whatever the long summer days bring, sunshine or rain, success or disappointment, may you find something in each and every day for which you can give thanks.

Grace and peace to you.

Reverend Katrina

St Hugh's open to visitors over the summer

From Easter day until mid September St Hugh's will be open to visitors every Sunday afternoon from 2 to 5pm. If you have never been into this beautiful chapel do come and see it, enjoy a cup of tea and hear about its history, perhaps after a walk in the Mendip Hills. Dogs welcome.

Vacancy for Rector’s PA & Benefice Administrator

The Benefice of Chew Valley South* is looking to appoint a part-time administrator.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a newly formed benefice at the early stage of its inception. Working with a full-time rector and a dedicated team of volunteers, you will help shape our organisation and make a positive difference to the local community in the benefice.

We are looking for an experienced administrator to join us on a part-time, flexible basis for 8 hours a week working mostly from home. Salary range £12 - £15/hour.

The purpose of the role is to assist the rector and local church leaders with the administrative aspects of day-to-day operations and to support the Christian ministry in this Church of England benefice.

Applicants will need:

1. Excellent interpersonal skills, empathy with people and be able to exercise great discretion.

2. To be a self-starter, but able to work well with a team, many of whom are volunteers.

3. A high level of IT skill and to be familiar with using social media.

For more details please contact Reverend Katrina Dykes, at rector@chewvalleysouth.org or 07922 153765

*Includes the parishes of All Saints North Mendip (Blagdon with Ubley), Compton Martin and the United Parish of East Harptree with West Harptree and Hinton Blewett

From the Registers

Baptism

We welcome into the Church family Poppy Thompson, who was baptised on 26th May St Andrew's Wedding

Congratulations to Jo Bass and Emily Gay who were married on 13th April at St Hugh's Charterhouse

Funerals

Our condolences go to the family and friends of:

John Burton for whom a thanksgiving service for his life was held in St Andrew's on 14th May

Sheila Thoy for whom a thanksgiving service for her life held on 29th May in St Andrew's

Ann Jenkins for whom a cremation service was conducted by Rev. Dykes at Mendip Crematorium on 22nd May

Christopher Morgan whose cremated remains were buried in St Bartholomew's churchyard on May 21st

Articles in back issues of Blagdon Newsletter courtesy of Blagsaey

In our May 2023 edition we published an index of general interest articles that we have published over the last three years.

All these back issues can be found online at https://elkqr.link/parishmag

From a young age we are taught to say thank you for the good things that happen to us. Gratitude is our usual response to such events but can be highly dependent on favourable external circumstances and life, as we all know, doesn't always unfold with ease. Grateful living offers a deeper, more unconditional and robust experience of gratitude and studies show that embracing grateful living can have a positive impact on your mood, outlook, and overall well-being.

Hi, I’m Helen and I’ve lived in Blagdon for about 15 years. I’m starting a Grateful Gathering here in the Village. Meeting monthly we’ll explore what it means to live life gratefully, with invigorating reflection and conversation and practical ways to incorporate gratitude into your everyday life.

Our next gathering is on Monday 17th June at Court Lodge, next to Blagdon Stores, arrival from 7:15 for a 7:30pm start. No cost and no commitment. If this interests you, just come along or get in touch for further info (hbarnes2512@gmail.com).

To read more about Grateful Gatherings please visit www.grateful.org/gatherings

Helen Barnes

2024 Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal

I know it is barely Summer and the last thing any sane person is probably thinking about right now is events happening in the Autumn! I do not yet know the exact dates of the collection but it will be around 25th October-9th November. However, as the local appeal organiser I want to make an early plea for some more helpers. Our small band is getting smaller and our age profile is definitely going in the wrong direction so we really need some of the ‘younger generation’ to step forward. It does not involve a lot in return for what the Armed Forces have and continue to do for us, just a few hours spread over a couple of weeks at hours that suit you. We can tailor your ‘patch’ to fit with where you live if you wish or you can opt to cover a part of the village less familiar to you.

So come on folks, this is time to give us ‘oldies’ a helping hand please!

Charles Crawfurd (01761 462418)

Churchill Music

Jazz in the Garden Family lunchtime event with Opa Rosa

Jul 06, 2024, 12:30. Bramble Cottage, Dinghurst Road, Churchill, BS25 5PJ

Opa Rosa, one of UK’s most dynamic and virtuosic bands sharing music from the Balkan, Greek, Klezmer and Roma traditions. They are guaranteed to set the feet tapping or even dancing (ably guided by Lulu). Bring your gazebo and seats (limited number of chairs will be available) sit back, soak up the music whilst enjoying a delicious hog roast bap (included in the ticket price).

Veg/vegan/gluten free options available. There will also be a bar.

Tickets inc. hog roast: £19.50 Champions of Churchill Music; £22.50 NonChampions; £7.50 U 18’s

Tickets can be purchased online from Ticketsource or by emailing holly@churchillmusic.org.uk or 07442 672805

We met on 9th May to discuss this year’s National Resolution concerning the dearth of NHS Dentists – a problem that affects so many who live in rural areas! Bobbie Fuke, our delegate at the next Annual National Federation Meeting in the Albert Hall, gave us her thoughts on this and after some discussion we gave the Resolution our support and asked her to vote as she saw fit after listening to the discussion and considering any changes made at the NFWI meeting.

Then, after suitable refreshments, we had an extremely useful presentation from retired and very experienced electrician, Barry Day on ‘Safe Electrics’. Barry explained the differences in light bulbs now available and made us very aware of the harm that could be caused by sloppy or careless use of electrical fixtures and fittings. We hope to have a summary of his talk available for members and friends shortly.

Still about safety, at our June meeting Steve Greenhalgh will talk on the subject of ‘Safe Driving in today’s conditions’.

A date for your diary – Saturday, 6th July – WI Cream Tea in the Village Club = in the Garden, weather permitting!

Blagdon W I meets on the Second Thursday of the month, at 7.30pm in the Village Club. We have thirty plus members and welcome visitors and new members!

For information, please contact our President, Judith Swetman on 01761 462007

Blagdon Local History Society

June Meeting:

Visit to Stanton Drew Stone Circles

After a full house for our superb May session with Eamonn McGivern on Stone Circles, he is going to lead a visit to Stanton Drew Circle in the week beginning 15th July. For more details please check with any member of our committee or email blagdonhistory@gmail.com.

Blagdon Water Gardens – the story with Peter May

Our June meeting will be held in the Village Club on 26th June, 7.30pm. For many years the name “Blagdon” was almost synonymous with good quality water garden products available from the Blagdon Water Gardens company. The business was founded by Mike Chivers in the family’s garden at the site of off Church Street now occupied by The Old Water Gardens road.

Come and find out more about this slice of Blagdon history.

Members free, Visitors £3.00 For a Zoom link email : m.adams.blagdonhistory@gmail.com

Join us for historical walk around Blagdon village

Blagdon has a very long history and there are traces of it all around us. Join us for a Sunday afternoon stroll round our village. Here is a great chance to find out a bit about the place where you live, its history and the people who have lived here before you. We'll start up at Yeo Valley headquarters on Rhodyate (parking available) and end up down Station Road, from where the community minibus will take us back up the hill. The walks will last about two hours and a bit over a mile, mainly downhill.

Sundays June 16th and July 7th, starting 2pm, cost £3 per person. Places on these walks are limited and advanced booking is essential. Please email:blagdonwalks@gmail.com or phone 01761 462371

Chew Valley Flower Club

Our first meeting after the Easter Bank Holiday was a flower workshop, with a visiting tutor, Julia Harrison. Her title was "Foamless fun with flowers". The aim of this day workshop was to make arrangements without the use of floral foam, in the interest of the environment. Twelve members attended, and different methods of support for flowers were tried, including wire mesh, a trellis of short sticks,, screwed up plastic, Criss crossed sellotape, small tubes and various others. Those attending enjoyed the challenges, some more successful than others! A shared lunch was provided, which was much appreciated, before the afternoon session. The workshop was voted a success, and provided food for thought.

After this the next meeting was on May 20th, a practice session, when members were asked to interpret a book title with flowers.

On June 3rd, we will be visited by Selena Denham, who will demonstrate her title "My favourite things".

Then on June 17th, we will have another practice class.

If you or your friends would like to come along and join us, you would be very welcome.

We meet fortnightly, on Monday evenings, at Compton Martin Village hall, at 7.30pm. Give us a try! Joyce Burton. 01761. 462560

Chew Valley Gardening Society

This friendly society meet on the second Thursday of the month at 8pm at Stanton Drew Village Hall where there is easy access and parking.

On the 13th June, John Tucker will talk on 'Shrubs for all seasons'. The competition will be: 3 stems of flowering shrubs.

If you would like to become a member please contact Graham Nicol, our Chairman, on 01275 333456 or just come along, you are warmly invited.

C V Gower

• Independent Family Funeral Directors

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Out and About Minibus trip to Cardiff

Monday 1st July 9:30 to 4:30

The Welsh capital has something for everyone. There is of course excellent shopping, whilst historic Cardiff Castle is a fascinating building with beautiful grounds. You could take a boat trip down the River Taff to the waterfront area, or else we can drop you off there. This area of the city offers extensive views over Cardiff Bay. This is also where you can find the modern Welsh assembly Senedd building, the Pierhead Building with its displays of Welsh culture and the very picturesque Norwegian Church.

Whether you like browsing in city-centre shops or prefer visiting heritage sites or simply relaxing by the harbourside, you are sure to enjoy your 4 hours in Cardiff. Minibus fare £11.

All Welcome

For more information or to reserve a place contact Sarah Parsons at sarparsons@aol.com or 01761 462371

Blagdon Village Club

High Street, Blagdon BS40 7TA

01761 462 696

f blagdonvillageclub

Cardiff Castle

Your Village Club

Your place, in the heart of the village to meet old friends and make new ones

Bar

Open Wed-Sat, 6-10pm

• Supporting local producers

• Real ales, lagers, ciders

• Skittles alley, Pool, Bar billiards, Snooker

• Beer garden

Function room with kitchen facilities

• Parties

• Meetings

• Fundraisers

• Rehearsal space

Enquiries to secretary@ blagdonvillageclub.org.uk

Free entry to members weekly cash prize draw!

New members always welcome just drop in and give it a try before you join

Apply for membership at the Club bar or https://membermojo.co.uk/ blagdonvillageclub

BLAGDONVILLAGE CLUB

Local performing arts charity Valley Arts are running a fabulous programme of events this month:

• Adolf and Winston -Local legends Living Spit return in the gloriously ludicrous satirical comedy. Friday 7th June - 7.30pm, Bishop Sutton Village Hall

• Great Expectations - Step into the enchanting world of Charles Dickens' timeless classic, in stunning surroundings. Thursday 13th June - 7pm, Yeo Valley Organic Gardens.

• Open Mic Music Night at The Pony - supportive audience and local music from new and established acts. Tuesday 18th June - 7.45pm, The Pony Chew Magna.

• Jazz Jam - get up and perform with our house band. Bring your own sheet music! Thurs 20th June - 8pm, The Bear and Swan, Chew Magna

• Handlebards: The Comedy of Errors - classic comedy with mistaken identity, music and manic costume changes a plenty. Sat 29th June - 7pm, Yeo Valley Organic Gardens

Tickets for all events can be booked via the Valley Arts website www.valley-arts.co.uk.

Blagdon Local History Society

Unlocking the mysteries of the stones with Eamonn McGivern

On 8th May, Blagdon Local History Society members and many visitors were treated to a wide ranging and fascinating talk about stone circles, including the local lesser known ones at Stanton Drew. Eamonn set out what is known, and more importantly not known, about these huge ancient monuments, Stonehenge and Avebury being the most excavated and visited.

Because we have no recorded history from four or five thousand years BC we have to rely on conjecture to come up with answers: why were they constructed, what were they used for and what significance did they have for our ancestors? Clearly a huge amount of effort went into moving monolithic stones into particular alignments. Were they linked to sun worship, seasonal celebrations, meeting places, religious festivals, fertility rites or something else? We do know that their use probably changed over the thousands of years of their existence, that they were altered and plundered, that original earth henges, ditches and banks have disappeared.

Unlike Stonehenge and Avebury which have been extensively excavated with the latest technology, Stanton Drew circles remain much less well documented, in a farmer's field: There are the Grand Circle, two smaller circles and the three huge stones known as The Cove. It is now thought these three stones may have formed an entrance to a burial barrow. In latter years technology has revealed that there were henges around the circles and nine concentric rings of timber posts within the largest circle. You can see Eamonn's power point and listen to his talk on our website blagdonlhs.com. He will also be leading a visit to Stanton Drew in the week beginning 15th July so do let us know if you would like to join us.

Jacky Kerly

Chew Valley Local History Society

50th Anniversary luncheon Tuesday 9th July at 1pm at Folly Farm

This will be a Summer Buffet with a selection of items served in a sharing/platter style served to each table. Following lunch there will be a lecture by Colin Budge entitled “Sutton Court and the St.Loe Family”. There are connections between our venue Folly Farm, Sutton Court and the Stowey Manor House. Colin is a long standing member of this Society and a very keen local historian with a long history of research and this will be a hugely interesting talk about history on our doorstep.

The cost will be £26 per person, this will cover the luncheon and gratuities. I shall circulate full details to all members including an application form by email or post. The forms should be returned to Jim Farmer, the organiser for this event. There will be no restriction on numbers and friends, family and visitors will all be welcome to this event to celebrate 50 very successful years of our History Society.

Should anyone have any questions please call or email me on 01275 332741 or 07976 266427, email: russpeters@btinternet.com

Russell Peters

As I write this fete update the sun is shining and it is the perfect day to have a Village Fete! Luckily for us we got almost perfect weather. A tiny bit of rain certainly did not dampen the atmosphere and enthusiasm of everyone attending.

The fete committee start planning the event in January. However, there’s always a few surprises that get thrown at us last minute.

I would like to say a huge thank you to that team for all their hard work and their good natured responses to the hundreds of messages that are pinged back and forth over the preceding months. The fete literally would not happen without them. This “A-team” has been Jane Wroath, Vicky Giordani, Susie Barton, Naomi Lyons, Karen Norman, Julia Ross, Clare Greatorex, Tabitha Bird, Abi Maddox and Sheila Thoy. We must also thank Mary Mead for the use of her spectacular garden. It just wouldn’t be the same anywhere else.

Sadly, Sheila was suddenly taken ill just a couple of weeks before the fete itself and passed away. Sheila had been on the committee for many years. She ran the raffle for us with great efficiency and was always able to find some amazing prizes. We were all devastated by the news that she had passed and so we give thanks to her for all her smiles, kindness and service and we wish her husband Alan and her family our sincerest condolences - we miss you Sheila.

Although we have made a good start on working out how much was raised, we won't have a final total until next month’s Parish Magazine. so you will have to wait a while longer. The money raised this year will be going to St Andrews, The Blagdon Playing Field Association (Revamping the tennis court area) and Great Western Air Ambulance.

Nicky Fairley

Most pictures courtesy of Gabriel Gilson

A letter from Bethlehem

We’re sure you're aware of our situation, especially in Gaza. In Bethlehem, the situation is comparatively better than in Gaza, but words cannot fully express what is happening there. In Bethlehem, we have been affected financially and emotionally, and we are feeling quite depressed. Our souvenir shop has been closed since October 7th, 2023. From the 18 people who used to work at our cooperative, only 4 of us are currently handling overseas orders and activities. Let’s pray that it doesn't escalate. Bethlehem is currently at a halt. We are under immense pressure.

In other parts of the West Bank, and especially in Gaza, the impact of violence and injustice is severe. Civilians, including children, have suffered catastrophic losses, and our hearts ache as we witness the devastation and profound loss on both sides.

At HLHCS, we are committed to non-violence, peace, harmony, and reconciliation. Our concerns grow as the human toll rises, causing infinite trauma and deepening hatred between both sides.

We implore the World Fair Trade Organizations, churches, friends, and institutions to help address the need for a ceasefire and peace in the Holy Land. We had anticipated strong tourism and stocked the store accordingly, but with no tourists now, we must pay all our debts without local income. We depend solely on overseas orders and activities. It's sad to acknowledge that we have never truly had stability here. The word "stability" should not exist in our dictionary, but "peace" is the most spoken and desired word by our people.

Your support enables us to continue our missions in the Holy Land. Please keep supporting us with your orders.

In peace, Basma and Amira Holy Land Handicraft Cooperative

Our thanks to Ann Simnett for sharing this letter from Bethlehem

To find out more about this cooperative, see www.hlhcs.org

Bethlehem is a largely Arab city on the edge of modern Jerusalem, surrounded by high Israeli security barricades

This set of nativity figures, brought out every Christmas in St Bartholomew's, was made by the cooperative

The carving of King Arthur at Charterhouse

King Arthur holds a peculiar position in our view of the world. He may – or may not – have actually existed in some form, but people in England and beyond have a much clearer idea of the man that they do for most actual kings in history. Many places in Europe claim a connection to him, if only to boost the revenue from their King Arthur car parks and Camelot tearooms.

However, the Southwest of England does have a better claim than many. We know that “Arthur” is actually a nickname, meaning “The Bear”. He may – or may not - have been a Romano-British warlord leading the fightback against the Anglo-Saxon invaders in about 500CE. This would have happened in Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. The later “discovery” of Arthur's supposed grave at Glastonbury brought pilgrims, with their hard cash, from far and wide and added supposed credence to the legends.

St Hugh's church at Charterhouse has a superb carving of King Arthur located behind the altar, sharing equal prominence with a matching statue of St Hugh himself. To modern eyes this is an odd mixture of secular legend with the divine. Whatever the facts, the Edwardians loved a romantic legend and it is in keeping with the arts and crafts influences in the design of this church, consecrated in 1909.

Fact or fiction, this statue of King Arthur is in itself a good enough reason to visit this interesting listed building up on Mendip – it is open to visitors over the summer from 2 to 5pm on Sundays.

Royal visit to Yeo Valley

HRH at the Showground with a sow and her litter - let nobody say our royals don't muck in.

In April Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh visited Somerset, joining a Learning Day at Bath & West Showground before visiting Yeo Valley Organic to hear about projects which are opening up the countryside and to hear more about sustainable farm and gardening practices. Yeo Valley’s Tim Mead highlighted multiple regenerative organic farming projects being undertaken across Yeo Valley’s own farms including mob grazing and agroforestry.

Tim Mead said, “It was a pleasure to show Her Royal Highness first-hand the incredible work that has been undertaken by Yeo Valley in collaboration with Langford Estates. The projects highlight our continued ambitions to support regenerative organic farming practices to produce natural healthy food that nurtures and nourishes people and planet.”

Paul Hooper, Chairman, The Trails Trust, highlighted plans for opening up the Somerset countryside and how the Environment Land Management (ELMS) programme is supporting farmers in areas of outstanding beauty, such as the Mendips. Completed work includes replanting, improving biodiversity and creating a multi-user path for people to enjoy the countryside.

Her Royal Highness then visited the Yeo Valley Organic Garden and was given a tour by Sarah Mead. To conclude, everyone was welcomed into the tearoom for a cream team. Yeo Valley’s founder Mary Mead had the pleasure of sitting opposite the Duchess, discussing the heritage of the farm and the British Friesian herd.

Tim Mead added: “As an organic brand for three decades, we must continue to share our views on farming, food and gardening ensuring that organic is an indispensable part of our future.”

The Duchess of Edinburgh was accompanied by The Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq.

You can find out more about Yeo Valley’s Regenerative Organic Farming Projects at regenerative.yeovalley.co.uk.

HRH in the organic garden with Sarah Mead

Now recruiting Young Rangers

The Mendip Hills National Landscape Team is looking for 15 nature-loving young people who want to take part in adventures across the Mendip Hills. The Young Rangers will work together on a variety of activities each month. The current cohort has taken part in nature documentary making, first aid training, navigation skills, drystone walling, building dormouse boxes, practical conservation tasks and more. Andy Chamberlain, Ranger Volunteer Coordinator for the Mendip Hills National Landscape Team said, “The Young Ranger scheme is a unique opportunity for young people who enjoy spending their time on the Mendip Hills. We’re looking for young people who love being outdoors and can see themselves working in the countryside. We want to see applications from young people who have a genuine interest in wildlife, conservation or outdoor adventure and can demonstrate this in their application.”

Matilda, a Young Ranger who has now graduated, said, “Young Rangers has not only given me practical skills such as dry-stone walling, navigation skills and first aid, but it has also given me social skills, helped to build my confidence and plenty of memories!”

Jane, an Advanced Young Ranger said, “Being a Young Ranger has helped me to get to know the Mendip Hills better, and I’ve really enjoyed learning about what the Rangers do. I have also met a group of amazing, like-minded people who I’ve become great friends with. If you’re an outdoor person, you’ll love it!”

Young people can apply to join the two year programme if they are starting Year 7 or 8 in September 2024. There are 22 exciting activities, usually on a Saturday each month. The Mendip Hills National Landscape Partnership subsidises the scheme so places can be offered at only £150 per Young Ranger. This covers all activities, equipment and the Young Ranger uniform. To apply please visit the Young Rangers page at www.mendiphills-nl.org.uk. There are only 15 spaces available so be creative with your applications, send us artwork, images or even videos to show us how much you love the Mendip Hills. We will be holding an open evening at Charterhouse Centre for you to find out more information on 11th June. The deadline for applications is Friday 5th July.

For further information email mendip@mendiphillsaonb.org.uk or call 01761 462338

Miner's Arms junction roadworks

The Miner’s Arms Junction on the way to Wells is a notorious collision site. Over the past 20 years, there have been 35 reported collisions at this junction, with 11 of them being serious and three fatal. Drivers often fail to stop despite the apparent over provision of clear signage, whilst traffic with the right of way often travels at speed through the junction. Sight lines are notoriously poor.

As any of you who have driven through this junction recently will know, a new section of road is being put into place off to the left as you approach from Blagdon. When completed, this will enable the junction to be offset, meaning it will no longer be a through crossroads. A reduced speed limit will also be introduced.

Speaking to BBC Radio Somerset, Avon and Somerset Police Chief Inspector Robert Cheeseman said: "Although it feels fairly open, the junction can actually come up to drivers quite quickly, and there are stop lines there that can be missed, and that's when we've seen vehicles venture into the junction when it's not safe, where we've had that very high number of collisions."

Work on these improvements is expected to be completed by July.

The Seymour Arms re-opens

It is fair to say that the Seymour Arms in the centre of Blagdon has had a rather chequered past in recent years. However, for the last few weeks the new landlords have been renovating the premises and the bar has now finally re-opened. The new landlords are Craig, Sue and Les. Craig, who is living on the premises, had along career in the entertainment world before working in the NHS. The NHS was also Sue's background, where she was a nurse, whilst her husband Les brings extensive commercial experience to the team.

Their first priority has been to refurbish the letting rooms and their efforts are already being rewarded with an increasing level of bookings. The bar is now open, with more beers on tap to come in the next couple of weeks. Once the refurbishment of the kitchen is completed, Sue intends to provide good honest pub fare.

Les is keen to emphasise that the team want the Seymour Arms to re-establish itself as an asset for the community. They are keen to support local groups who want to run events either on their premises or in the courtyard.

They have not yet established their on-line presence but you can contact them on 01761 462279.

Les, Sue and Craig behind the bar

Blagdon News

Scheduled Trips in June

To book seats on any of these trips or for more information email blagdonminibus@gmail.com or phone Tina on 01761 462432.

Tuesday 4th Weston-super-Mare Leaves Blagdon 9:30am, leaves Weston at 12:30pm, fare £3 return

Friday 7th Bath Leaves Blagdon 9:30am, leaves Bath at 2pm, fare £6 return

Tuesday 11th Wells Leaves Blagdon 9:30am, leaves Wells at 12:30pm, fare £3 return

Tuesday 18th (note day change) Clevedon Leaves Blagdon 9:30am, leaves Clevedon at 12:30pm, fare £4 return

Tuesday 25th Wells Leaves Blagdon 9:30am, leaves Wells at 12:30pm, fare £3 return These trips are run as a service to the community and are open to all. Please do book your seats in advance.

Mobile library visits to Blagdon in June

Thursdays June 13th and 27th

You can visit the library vehicle as follows:

Bottom of Village Club car park 1:35 to 2:35pm Junction of Eastcroft and Score Lane 2:40 to 3:40pm

Refuse and Recycling in June

Standard vehicle Small vehicle

Tuesday 4th

Recycling & food waste only

Rubbish, recycling, food waste

Monday 10th Garden Garden

Tuesday 11th

Tuesday 18th

Rubbish, recycling, food waste

Recycling & food waste only

Recycling & food waste only

Rubbish, recycling, food waste

Monday 24th Garden Garden

Tuesday 25th

Rubbish, recycling, food waste

Recycling & food waste only

The following is a reduced version of the report Blagdon Parish Council presented at the annual Parish Meeting. This meeting was not well publicised in advance and only a handful of residents attended it. This report does give a good idea of what the parish council does and hence we are publishing key extracts from it. A copy of the full report can be obtained from the parish clerk.

Useful contacts

Church of England Rector

C of E Parish Administrator

Member of Parliament

District Councillor

Rev. Katrina Dykes

07922 153765 rector@chewvalleysouth.org

David Ashton-Hilton 01761 854243 benefice.bcmu@outlook.com

John Penrose MP 0207 2192385 john@johnpenrose.org

Patrick Keating 07584 674740 patrick.keating@n-somerset.gov.uk

North Somerset Council 01934 888888 www.n-somerset.gov.uk

Library service 01934 426010 libraries@n-somerset.gov.uk

Waste and recycling 01934 888802

Blagdon Parish Council www.blagdonpc.wordpress.com

chairman Philip Smith 01761 462508 phil.smith@blagdonpc.org.uk

clerk Peter Ballantyne 01275 349098 parish.clerk@blagdonpc.org.uk

Village Agent

Lyndsay Newman 07967345559 lyndsay.newman@curogroup.co.uk

Mendip Vale Medical Practice 01934 839820 Out of hours: 111

West Harptree Medical Practice

01761 221406 Out of hours: 111

Chew Medical Practice 01275 332420 Out of hours: 111

Helpline Equipment Loan

Ruth Bean 01761 463593 ruthbean@gmail.com

Blagdon Primary School 01761 462416 www.blagdonprimaryschool.com

Blagdon Preschool

Mini Melodies

Brownies

Rainbows

Beavers

Cubs

Scouts

Explorers

Blagdon Village Club

07748 367257 blagdonpreschool@outlook.com

Penny Crawfurd 01761 462418 pennycrawfurd@yahoo.co.uk

Chris Burton 07721 336107 blagdonbrownies@gmail.com

Tracy Higgins 07771 632774 blagdonrainbows@hotmail.com

Pip Riley 07763 240178

Pip.riley@talk21.com

Pip Riley 07763 240178 Pip.riley@talk21.com

Pip Riley

07763 240178 Pip.riley@talk21.com

Pip Riley 07763 240178 Pip.riley@talk21.com

01761 462696 Facebook: blagdonvillageclub

New Inn 01761 258157 www.newinnblagdon.co.uk

Seymour Arms 01761 462279

Thai Kitchen (The Queen Adelaide) 01761 258339 www.thaifoodblagdon.co.uk

Coffee Station 01761 856633

Blagdon Stores and Post Office

01761 462238

Ubley Motors 01761 462275

Blagsaey blagsaey@gmail.com

Blagdon WI

Blagdon Valley Minibus Association

Blagdon Local History Society

Blagdon Village Lunch

Westlink on-demand Transport

Jane Venner-Pack 01761 463699 janevp@globalnet.co.uk

Andrew Barnes 01761 462120 blagdonminibus@gmail.com

Andrew Barnes 01761 262120 www.blagdonlhs.com

Debs Campbell 07766 022726 debsblagdon@btinternet.com

0117 457 8561 App: westlink

Ubley News

Tuesday June 11th 3 to 4:30

St Bartholomew’s Church, Ubley

Home-made cakes

Cash donations only please

Important dates for Ubley Publey

Ubley Publey will be open through the summer on the first Friday of each month

7th June, 5th July, 2nd August

Come along to Ubley Hall to enjoy an evening with friends

Withywood Food Bank The food bank which Ubley supports is in Withywood, Bristol, its official name being Carpenters Food and Support. Two large boxes for donations can be found in St Bartholomew’s porch. These boxes are emptied every week, usually on Sundays.

Ubley Cares Ubley Cares continues to offer help which can be arranged with either Jonathan or Phil. To make contact with Jonathan Longhurst email jl1landjl2@sky.com, or 01761 462827. For Phil Collins email pcollins@ubleyparish.co.uk or 07973 660865.

Ubley Rubbish Collection in June

Food bins, green boxes and blue bags (recycling) are collected every time.

Wednesday 5th Green garden waste bin and recycling

Wednesday 12th Black rubbish bin and recycling

Wednesday 19th Green garden waste bin and recycling

Wednesday 26th Black rubbish bin and recycling

Ubley Mobile Library in June

The Mobile Library will visit Ubley on: Wednesdays 5th and 19th

The library stops at the Village Hall from 11.20 to 11.50am and at Ubley School from 11.55 to 12.55pm. The Mobile Library offers all the same services as an ordinary library branch. You can use Libraries West membership cards to borrow, reserve, renew, and return items from any Libraries West. You can return any items you take out from the mobile library to any branch in the Libraries West area.

Blagdon Valley Minibus Association

Trips in June from Ubley

Tuesday 4th Weston-super-Mare Ubley Sawmill at 9:25am, leaves Weston at 12:30pm, £5 rtn

Friday 7th Bath Leaves Ubley Sawmill at 9:35am, leaves Bath at 2pm, fare £6 return

Tuesday 11th Wells leaves Ubley Sawmill at 9:35am, leave Wells at 12:30pm, fare £3 return

Tuesday 25th Wells leaves Ubley Sawmill at 9:35am , leave Wells at 12:30pm, fare £3 return

To book seats on any of these trips or for more information please email blagdonminibus@gmail.com or phone Tina on 01761 462432. These trips are run as a service to the community and are open to all.

Ubley Parish Council

We are delighted to announce that we have now found a new 'sweeper'! Please join us in welcoming Jamie Linegar who will be joining at the beginning of June. Of course there is very little litter to sweep, and her main responsibilities will be gardening and grounds keeping to help keep the village pretty.

On the other hand, we do now have two vacancies on the Council and would love to get these filled. If you would like to help keep Ubley a wonderful place to live and could spare one evening a month we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with the Clerk or any of the Councillors if you have any questions.

Thanks and best wishes,

Charlotte Witchard Clerk to Ubley

Parish Council

Ubley Safari Supper

A Little Reminder from Di Hooper.

The Ubley Safari Supper will take place on Saturday 13th July.

All Ubley homes will have received information already. Please send your reply slips to Di at Bramblings, The Street, as soon as possible if you haven’t already done so. It is also very useful to know if you can’t take part this year.

You can email Di at dozydiane@hotmail.co.uk