WEdo a lot of “running around” at this time of the year trying to get to as many fetes, festivals and other events as possible, enjoying the wonderful community spirit we have across Mendip.
But there has been some serious running going on at races in Wells and the Chew Valley, not to mention a 50mile ultra-marathon along Mendip.
We have pictures from these, as well as from big events like the Bath and West Show and Dig for Victory, a feast of nostalgia raising money for service charities.
Feasts also feature heavily in the Somerset Food Trail – we preview that –while Les Davies looks at how we can preserve Somerset’s ancient orchards.
We feature two local companies who have won national awards. Mary Payne looks ahead to forthcoming flower shows with tips on how to enter.
We have many pages, as usual, devoted to charities and community organisations, something we couldn’t do without the continuing support of our advertisers.
With all of our regular features and contributors, welcome to summer on Mendip!
August 2025 deadline: Friday 18th July
Published: Tuesday 29th July
Editorial:
Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk
Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk
Advertising: advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk
Lisa Daniels lisa@mendiptimes.co.uk
What’s On listings: Annie Egginton annie@mendiptimes.co.uk
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Publisher: Mendip Times Limited
Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG
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Front cover: Land Army girls at the Dig for Victory show. Photograph by Steve Egginton. See page 62.
Pride in Paulton
COUNCILLOR
Liz Hardman has been elected as the new chair of Bath & North East Somerset Council. She served as vice chair last year.
She said: “I look forward to representing the council at the many forthcoming events, such as presiding over citizenship ceremonies as well as supporting the council’s role as a corporate parent to our looked-after children.
“As a councillor, I have represented my ward of Paulton since 2011 and I do believe I am the very first Paulton councillor to hold the position of chair of our council. A proud moment for Paulton.”
Have your say on town’s future
SHEPTON Mallet residents are being handed a powerful opportunity to shape the future of their town, as the longawaited Neighbourhood Plan heads to a public referendum on July 17th.
The vote will determine whether the proposed plan— developed by and for the community—becomes a legally binding part of the area's development framework.
The plan addresses a wide range of issues raised by residents and aims to strike a balance between sustainable development, environmental protection, and the enhancement of community life.
The subjects range from the need for new housing to plans for a “community hub” which will house meeting rooms, social and health services, and will be accompanied by a community play park, allotments, and garden space.
The plan allocates land for up to 1,029 new homes by 2034. In addition, it identifies a new site to the west of Cannards Grave Road which could accommodate an extra 150 homes
Councillor Matt Harrison, spokesperson for the Neighbourhood Plan team said: “Everything in this plan really matters to our town, after over a decade of consultation and revision, residents now have the final say in whether it goes ahead. If you support it, you must vote for it. If not, this is your chance to reject it—but your vote is crucial either way.”
Back on track
A STEAM locomotive which has been restored over the past seven years has made its first passenger carrying trips on the East Somerset Railway at Cranmore.
Hundreds of rail enthusiasts boarded the carriages pulled by the 4247, a heavy freight tank during the heritage line’s steam gala which also saw the unveliing of GWR prairie tank 4110 in newly-painted British Rail green livery.
4247 arrives at the station after competing its first passenger carrying journey
The newly-painted prairie tank engine leaves the engine shed
Side-by-side: 4110 (left) and 4247
Testing river quality
BrISToLAvon rivers Trust (BArT) has announced the dates for the annual Bristol Avon riverBlitz from July 4th to July 11th when they ask citizen scientists to sample local rivers, streams, and ditches.
This includes the river Avon and all the rivers and streams that flow into it including the river Chew, the Bristol Frome, the Somerset Frome, the river Trym and many more.
Volunteers gather nutrient data and document observations at their chosen sampling sites. They measure nitrate and phosphate levels which when high indicate poor water quality caused by man-made inputs such as sewage or agricultural run-off.
It says: “This data significantly enhances our knowledge of local rivers. The information collected by dedicated volunteers helps us identify pristine waters, pinpoint pollution hotspots, and provide a comprehensive overview of water quality and river health.
“The riverBlitz is also a fantastic way for volunteers to connect with nature, explore nearby rivers, and get to know the vibrant wildlife that inhabits these areas.”
Participants need to sign up by Saturday, June 28th to receive their water quality testing kit.
Themendip hills National Landscape Partnership has voted David Turner as the new chair of the partnership and Cllr Theo Butt Philip from Somerset Council as the vice-chair. The partnership is the committee that coordinates work to protect the nationally important landscape of the mendip hills.
David lives near Wells and has a wealth of experience from senior positions in local authorities, including North Somerset Council. he takes over from farmer Andy Wear from Compton martin.
David said: “The mendip hills is an incredible place, a very special landscape rich in biodiversity and architectural heritage. It relies on a resilient and diverse farming community to deliver effective land management and stewardship.
“It supports a growing range of sustainable tourism and visitor services alongside nationally recognised and local business.
Fromeresident Nick east launched a fundraiser in response to recent acts of vandalism in the town’s Victoria Park – and hit his £364 target in just four hours!
Nick was inspired to act on reading about the destruction of two Kanzan cherry trees, planted by Frome Town Council’s ranger team last autumn in partnership with Selwood Academy.
“Post Covid many more of us understand that it is a place that is at the heart of our wellbeing, be it for active sports, informal recreation, physical and mental relaxation and recovery.
“It is a place where the partnership, by working together, supported by our skilled and dedicated National Landscape team, as well as an amazing group of volunteers, has and is making a real difference.
“however, if the National Landscape is to continue to be a very special landscape, it has to respond to change; be it the ecological challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, changes in farm funding, the need for improved accessibility to and through the mendips, the need to extract positive benefits from development and robustly resist those schemes that threaten us and be responsive to changes in local and national government policy and funding.”
Pictured (l to r) David Turner, Jim Hardcastle and Theo Butt Philip
School goes back to nature
ChILDreN from hedgehog and Kingfisher classes at Church Stoke School took a trip to the village’s rectory Field to take part in the Chew Stoke BioBlitz. They made a record and logged species of birds, insects, plants, bats and water creatures over a given time period.
head teacher, Ben hewett, said: “The children had an amazing time looking for different species, identifying, photographing and logging the wide range of species they saw throughout the afternoon.”
After school the eco Club visited the field to continue the search. They hunted for mini-beasts, went stream dipping and helped to create a bug hotel.
Healing the land
WorLD environment Day saw work start on a new 4k perimeter fence to protect new woodland from deer at heal rewilding’s former dairy farm at Witham Friary near Frome. representatives from heal, Scottish and Southern electricity Networks (SSeN), Natural england and the environment Agency gathered for the event.
The initiative – funded by SSeN as part of its £250,000 partnership in the Projects for Nature programme – is supporting the natural regeneration of 24 hectares of woodland on the southern fields of heal’s first rewilding site.
heal Somerset’s founder trustee and acting Ceo, Jan Stannard, said: “We’re already seeing lots of saplings –especially baby oaks – cropping up across the site, but the deer are nibbling them before they have a chance to grow. This fence will give them the protection they need to thrive.”
Future of Mendip
Youcan have your say on the draft mendip hills National Landscape management Plan which runs until 2030. There is a statutory duty to prepare a management plan and to review it at least every five years.
The plan describes the special qualities of the National Landscape and provides a framework for working across organisations to support its protection, enhancement and enjoyment in line with an agreed vision.
mr hewett said: “We can’t wait to see how popular the hotel is in the future. A huge thank you to Nicola from the parish council for organising the event, Vicky hennessy for coordinating the school taking part, our parent helpers and all the volunteers who helped our children take part in the event and provided the resources required.”
The National Landscape Partnership commenced a review in 2023 and since then that it has consulted residents, farmers, other businesses owners, elected councillors, parish councils, other stakeholders and visitors to discover what they think the important issues are.
These conversations have helped them draw up a draft management plan for 2025-2030 and they would now like to hear your views.
Following a six-week consultation, amendments will be made and then taken to the three local authorities for adoption, Somerset Council, North Somerset Council and Bath & North east Somerset Council.
NorThAmPToNShIreauthor h. e. Bates (1904-1974) was a keen naturalist. In his book Down the River he wrote about his love of dragonflies saying “an endless, display of darting, poising, striking and hovering” and “a living flash of lightning so swift it was lost”.
many folklore tales and myths abound about dragonflies with various nicknames from county to county mostly associated with evil and injury. A common name is devil’s darning needle which could sew up the mouth of naughty children.
If looks belie nature then dragonflies certainly do! They look so fragile with their two pairs of picturesque wings that are transparent, traced, with a network of veins and sometimes blotches of various colours.
To differentiate between a damselfly and a dragonfly the latter rests with wings spread open whilst the damselfly rests with wings closed together above its body.
I find it hard to photograph dragonflies in flight – well nigh impossible – and I am unfamiliar with names (as usual) so this is just a starter. There are three types of dragonfly –hawkers, chasers/darters and skimmers, named according to their flights.
Perhaps we are most familiar with the hawkers. one way to photograph dragonflies is when they are spotted on a fence. They may be basking or resting after a long hunt or simply looking out for unsuspecting prey or a mate, or they may be youngsters building up strength.
Adults are fast-flying voracious daytime predators, searching for insect prey such as gnats, mosquitoes and butterflies and even other dragonflies weaker than themselves.
It is amazing to watch their aerial skills being able to reach
Returning to the spring
ThISis my most popular insect box. each hole in the box has a test tube attached in which the insect can lay eggs
36kms an hour in any direction even backwards. or they can simply hover. Their wings can beat together or separately. maybe everything needs to be quick because an adult may only live for a few weeks, so their life cycle is at a premium. They catch between 95 and 97 per cent of their prey!
Dragonflies are further aided by superb vision having five eyes including two multifaceted compound eyes that take up most of the face. They are made up of thousands of lenses plus two simple eyes.
These give almost 360-degree vision. each compound eye consists of around 28,000 simple eyes. The antennae are tiny since the dragonfly relies much more on sight than touch.
Dragonflies have a three-stage life cycle egg, larva and adult. The female lays hundreds of eggs in batches over a period of days or weeks close to water. The larval stage is more relaxed than the adult’s short but hectic life, being underwater for several years before transforming into winged adults.
They look like drab mini-adults without wings and have a hinged jaw that can shoot out to capture prey, including insect larvae, crustaceans, worms, snails, leeches, tadpoles and small fish. Larvae themselves are prey to other dragonfly larvae, fish and waterfowl.
Dragonflies are most vulnerable when emerging from the water. They exit by climbing onto vegetation near the water’s edge. here they go through a final moult where their larval skin splits open and the adult emerges. The adult must wait whist its wings harden and other internal processes happen.
It may take up to three hours before it can fly away rather weakly. Now it is prone to predation. It leaves behind a cast which can sometimes be found.
and leave provisions for the larvae when they hatch. The sealed holes are being used.
This photo shows the inside of the box which is detachable just to be inquisitive and return quickly!
Solitary bees, for example, lay clutches of eggs in spring, each clutch protected by some kind of material depending on the type of bee together with a supply of nectar and pollen for the hatching larvae. New bees emerge the following spring,
always the males first so that they are ready to mate with the later females. Amazing!
DIANA REDFERN
Dragonfly
Drangonfly’s eyes
Learning lessons by sharing information
FARMING is a welcoming industry and unless it compromises confidentiality is happy to share information with anyone who asks. More often than not, this “knowledge transfer” is a part of a farm visit. I have recently had the privilege of visiting four world class businesses in Herefordshire. Two would be equally at home in our area. First stop was a 600-cow dairy farm with all the cows being milked by robots. Attention to detail was phenomenal and showed with the farm’s performance.
A cider mill would be equally at home in our area but again, the one I visited was an innovative business making good quality cider and targeting specific parts of the market.
The other two businesses were truly a world away from what we see on Mendip. Whilst Cheddar is renowned for seasonal strawberries, in comparison one of the farms was producing thousands of tonnes of perfect strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blackcurrants with the majority being grown in poly tunnels from February to October.
Whilst the fruit growing was most impressive, what really made an impression was their approach to recruiting staff. A
decade ago, they would have hundreds of Eastern Europeans on the farm picking the fruit. Now, with the improving economic climate in Eastern Europe they have had to move to the “stan” countries of Central Asia to find staff.
With this move comes the challenge of accommodating a very different culture. Rather than just recruiting, the business has visited the likes of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to see how potential pickers live and what can be done in deepest darkest Herefordshire to make them feel welcome and settled enough to stay for the picking season.
This seems to have worked and the community housed in hundreds of static caravans appeared happy. The other farm we visited also had stan country pickers and an extensive array of poly tunnels. One of the main crops grown in their tunnels was asparagus. Some 80% of the asparagus grown under cover in the UK is grown on this one farm.
With the controlled conditions and warmer environment, the yield of asparagus was considerably more than their crops in the open fields. They also grow blueberries, beans and rhubarb all of which need picking and packing by hand so the staff arriving in the early spring stay until the following autumn.
Both were world class businesses that were technically as good as they get with “soft skills” honed to look after their enormous seasonal workforces. My two days travelling around Herefordshire could be viewed as a busman’s holiday and not proper work but by visiting these sorts of businesses which are really world class you always learn something.
It might not be about milking cows, growing corn or making silage but there are always take-home messages which can be transferred from one sector to another.
With NICK GREEN
Nick Green is Farms Director for Alvis Bros Ltd based at Lye Cross Farm. As well as the business, he is involved with a number of local and national farming charities.
Family-run, rural country store on A359 between Castle Cary and Sparkford
Fir Tree Business Park, High Road, Galhampton, Somerset, BA22 7BH sales@galhamptoncountrystore.co.uk
The Mendip Mindbender
DOWN
9. Doppelganger (9)
10. No let out for headliner at 1 Down (5)
11. Seems to be caught in stitches (7)
12. Myriad performers first mixed on this stage (7)
13. Bad misplay on sporting competitors (9)
15. Wipe clean (5)
17. Main thoroughfare for Bristol maybe (7)
19. Spire (7)
20. Bend over backwards in period of uncertainty (5)
21. Honest rocking & rolling set outside for headliners at 1 Down (3,6)
24. Unfortunately hit pier more forcefully (7)
26. Strange (7)
28. Headliner at 1 Down surrounded by bad electrics (5)
29. 1 Down headliners in frightful ado, I heard (9)
1. Last go around for music festival (6)
2. Home of 1 Down (5,4)
3. Good-looking one from Blondie (4)
4. Afternoon nap (6)
5. Storms (8)
6. Looking into the past (10)
7. Tiny particle (4)
8. Dine out on mixed bile –uneatable (8)
14. Working postmen aim to deliver Aladdin and Cinderella (10)
16. Something fast and furious or sprinter goes nuts (10)
17. Frequent 1 Down headliners have Carbon dated album returned, Yes! (8)
18. Relating to the written word (8)
22. Personify (6)
23. Rapid (6)
25. Monster band first headlining 1 Down (1,3)
27. Enlarge (4)
This month’s solution can be found on page 84
By Fairlight Cryptic Clues are in italics
Update from Tessa
It’s been another busy month in Somerset, from visiting Shepton’s Almshouses and Lido, Monaghan Mushrooms in Langford, the Chatty Café in Lympsham, school pupils in Horrington and Cheddar, The Bath & West Show, Axevale’s Climate Action Greening Festival and meeting the Mendip Mental Health Hikers on their return to Wookey Hole, it’s been fantastic to spend time in every corner of my ‘patch’. Since I was elected last July, I’ve focused on specific health issues, one of which is the chronic health condition ME. Thank you to everyone who contacts me and shares the reality of living with this condition. I wrote to the Health Secretary asking for research funds for both ME and Long Covid sufferers. I was delighted all 71 of my MP colleagues signed the letter, delivered personally just before World ME Day. I was really concerned to learn that Maternity Services have been “temporarily” suspended at Yeovil Hospital for safety reasons. Following ongoing concerns over the future of the Stroke Unit at Yeovil, my colleagues and I are seeking urgent assurances over the commitment of Somerset Hospitals Foundation Trust to the Yeovil Hospital site.
As part of National Epilepsy Week, the Epilepsy Society held a special exhibition in Parliament. I heard about cutting-edge research and broadened my understanding of the impact of epilepsy on the lives of individuals and their families.
Celebrating Somerset Day serves to remind me of all that is good and vibrant about this special area – not least, its people! I run ‘surgeries’ in wonderful independent coffee shops and village pubs. If you would like to speak to me, please come and chat.
Some of my July ‘surgeries’ are:
Friday 4th July: 08:00 to 09:00 at The Mendip Pantry, Chewton Mendip
Friday 4th July: 11:30 to 12:30 at The Hub Café, East Brent Village Hall
Saturday 5th July: 08:30 to 10:00 at Coffee#1, Wells
Friday 11th July: 10:00 to 11:00 at Congresbury Community Café
Friday 11th July: 19:00 to 20:00 at Ashcott Village Hall – Beer Festival
Saturday 12th July: 11:00 to 12:00 The Hive Café, Shepton Mallet
Saturday 12th July: 13:00 to 14:00 at The Coffee Bank, Winscombe
No appointment is necessary – it’s first come, first served. If you can’t come to meet me, I’ll come to see you.
Thank you.
Tessa
Three days of fun –and fierce competition
THE annual Royal Bath & West Show offered something for everyone, from fierce – but friendly – competition in classes ranging from livestock to horticulture to live music and dance. Good weather ensured there were plenty of visitors to the showground, especially on the Friday when Clarkson’s Farm TV celebrity Kaleb Cooper toured the site and awarded prizes to the top livestock during the grand parade in the main arena.
Heavy horses in action
Judging the cider
Opening ceremony
Big boys’ toy
Long service award winners Ann and Geoff Groves, Will Bougard, Keith Selway, David Carpenter, Paul Murray, Mike Bethell, Graham Rolls and Mike Gray.
Somerset Morris
Members of the Yates family, of Downhead, near Shepton Mallet, with their awards for their Holstein catlle
England 2013 Rugby World Cup winner Phil Vickery on the Raging Bull trade stand
Part of a medal winning display in the horticulture marquee
. . . and presenting awards during the grand parade on the Friday of the show
Train rides were popular
Ska band the Funky Monkey Bubble Klub after their gig in the Pilton Tent
Kaleb Cooper with young farmers after a book-signing session in the Somerset YFC marquee . . .
Roving musician Chloe Marie Aston
and posing with the Jones family, from Salisbury
The Paul Hannam quad bike stunt show in the main arena
All the fun of Radstock Fayre
HOLY Trinity Church once again played host to the annual Radstock Fayre – a day-long community event.
Featuring live music and theatrical performances alongside community stalls, the free fayre attracted a large crowd of families. The event was organised by the Natural Theatre Company.
When Elvis met James Bond: Ian Pollock combined the two icons in an outdoor stage spoof by Spitz and Co called The Spy Who Loved Me Tender
Selwood Bounds Morris
High-five!
Elle, Findlay, Tyler and Jake, with fish made out of willow on the EcoWild stall
The church field was filled with community stalls
A young drummer on stage
Grazing to improve the Mendip Hills
THE Mendip Hills are particularly vulnerable to our changing climate. Our exposed limestone plateau formation means droughts may be more severe due to our limited rivers and springs, and soils, bedrock, and cave systems that naturally struggle to retain water. Extreme rainfall may also lead to excessive soil, cave and swallet erosion, and increase flood events downstream.
However, well managed grasslands, can help sequester carbon and maintain the biological, mineral, and structural pillars of soil health which help soil absorb water during rainfall and retain moisture for longer during droughts, increasing our climate resilience.
Mob-grazing is a method that has been adopted by several of our farmers. This involves grazing stock on a long rotation. It allows enough time to pass from when an animal last grazed an area for the grass to re-grow and for detritivores (species that feed on detritus) to draw organic matter into the soil, feeding the soil biology that helps retain carbon and moisture. However, the small paddocks required results in the challenge of how to make sure livestock have access to water and supplementary forage when needed.
We have supported farmers in transitioning to mob-grazing
practices by helping to fund equipment such as bale unrollers which allow easy distribution of round bales in a way that limits poaching, and innovative and adaptive drinker systems that enable farmers to move water supply quickly and easily. We are always learning and are open to supporting new and exciting ideas to help farmers transition to more sustainable methods of grazing.
With KATY BEAUCHAMP
Here comes summer –hopefully
With the promise of long, hot and lazy days, who wants be slaving over a stove? Instead, try these simple – yet delicious – recipes to share with friends and family (around the pool, if you’re lucky enough to have one!)
PASTA ARANCHINI
Use leftover spaghetti to make these aranchini
I had some cooked spaghetti left over and used it instead of rice to make these arancini balls.
METHOD
Blend all the arancini ingredients until smooth-ish. Tear the mozzarella and mix with the tomatoes and basil. Divide the pasta mixture into six and in your hands make a thick disc of the mixture and add some of the filling. Bring the edges in until you have a little filled patty. Fry for a few minutes on each side and serve with your favourite dip.
TANGY LEMON CHICKEN
METHOD
Fry the chicken, skin side down with onions until the thighs are golden, turn over and add the rest of the ingredients bar the cream. Fry for a few minutes and then add in the cream. Simmer for 15 minutes and then serve on a bed of rice.
INGREDIENTS
(Makes approximately eight)
120g dry spaghetti (cook and let cool)
1tsp paprika, salt, pepper, garlic and dry coriander
(For the filling)
3 sun-dried tomatoes chopped
50g mozarella
Torn basil
APPLE SNOW
Mum’s apple snow is so simple to make
I haven’t had this pudding for years, mum used to make it for us in the 70s. It only takes two ingredients and is delicious on its own but I think would be even better alongside a fruit pie or crumble. Mum used freshly stewed apples but being a bit lazy, I’m not!
METHOD
Pour the milk into a bowl and whisk until double in size and bubbly. Add in the apple sauce and cinnamon and whisk again until firm.
INGREDIENTS
(Serves 4)
Pack of boneless chicken thighs (600g)
Medium chopped onion
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1tbs of any mustard
1tsp garlic
230 ml double cream
Glug of olive oil
INGREDIENTS
(Makes six to eight servings)
1 can of evaporated milk (410g) 2 jars of apple sauce (540g) Cinnamon (optional)
Easy lemon-fragrant chicken
PLUME OF FEATHERS DUCK RACE
SATURDAY 12thJULY
Starting at 5pm. Great family fun evening with a local band playing, best dressed duck competition, duck racing, BBQ, pig roast, face painting, ice cream stall, two bars open. Come and get your ducks from the Plume, decorate at home or at the Plume from 5pm and enter them before 6pm.
Rickford, Somerset BS40 7AH 01761 462682 Visit www.theplumeoffeathers.com Located at Chew Hill, Chew Magna BS40 8SB
Farm donation
WEDMOREVillage Farm, which supplies produce to local food banks, has received a donation of £1,500 from the Pavers Foundation. Members are pictured with Cheryl Game, assistant manager of Pavers at Cheddar Garden Centre.
Organic food awards
THECommunity Farm based in the Chew Valley is a finalist in the Best Organic Retailer category at the UK’s only national organic awards.
It faced a rigorous judging process by a professional panel of industry judges and beat off fierce competition from across the country to be named as a finalist.
The awards are run by leading organic certifier Soil Association Certification, in partnership with headline sponsor Ocado.
Come and discover our range of exotic animals and learn some amazing facts along the way
Our Park is open from 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Sunday We are also open on a Monday during school holidays
Our Park View Restaurant is now open Thursday & Friday evenings. We also offer a delicious Sunday Roast Our restaurant can be used without paying admission to the park
John Miller, food and farming manager at the farm, said: “We are incredibly proud of the growers and volunteers on our own fields, as well as the other local farms we support, who do a fantastic job in growing great quality, organic produce that is good for nutrition, better for the planet, and frankly the best for taste, too!”
Winners will be announced at the BOOM awards ceremony on Thursday, July 10th at Paintworks, Bristol, home of the Soil Association, hosted by TV personality Andy Clarke.
& DRINK
WILD FOOD
Anyone for tea?
I HAVEbeen lucky enough to holiday in the south of France. Soaking up the atmosphere whilst walking around an ancient market town under the dappled shade of trees with bright stalls selling fresh foods – meats, cheeses, olives, artisan breads, oils etc is something to behold. A real privilege. There are even stalls selling dried flowers and herbal teas.
One of them was the magnificent scented and delicate flavoured lime flower tea the French call “Tilluel”. Amusingly (for me) or maybe ironically (for some) on this particular occasion I happened to look up. Must remember to look up more often.
All of the stalls were located in the shade of the old lime trees. Fantastic! When growing without competition from other trees, it can spread its branches and multiple shoots appear from the base of the tree – a key ID feature.
Within the market square they were tightly trimmed and manicured but the shape and scent of the leaves and flowers were unmistakable.
Common lime (Tilia europea) is a tall deciduous tree, up to 46m in height. The leaves are large and heart shaped, finely toothed with a pointed tip, darker and smooth on the upper side, paler on the underside with fine white hairs.
Leaves appear from March/April (depending on the weather) through to the autumn. From June and July, the yellow flowers form in drooping clusters and have a heavily scented blossom. It is in the summer when the lime tree begins to flower, the heady smell of sweet nectar is incredible, as is the soundtrack of the buzzing bees. Nothing beats picking and drying the flowers to produce one’s own richly scented and refreshing tea. Go easy on the strength of the tea; whilst it is said to be soothing on the digestion it is also known to have a sedative effect. Can’t think why I upset the herbal tea market stall holder so much, perhaps finding and picking my own lime flowers right next door had something to do with it. Maybe they would have benefitted from a cup of “Tilluel”. Anyone for tea?
Adrian Boots is a Landscape Ecologist and expert forager running wild food forays, events and activities. Please visit: www.hedgerowcottage.co.uk for more information or email him at: hello@hedgerowcottage.co.uk
GARDEN FOOD
Replant and resow
THEfirst week of July this year is fantastic for sowing new vegetables. The waxing moon gives strong energy to sowings made in the first eight days, before full moon on July 10th.
Good to sow are dwarf French beans, lettuce, endive, carrots, chard, Florence fennel, and kohlrabi. Then in late July, Chinese cabbage and winter radish.
More sowing ideas
l Cabbage savoy, sow first week July for medium heads in winter, when you will really appreciate them
l Cauliflower Romanesco is an uplifting sight in late autumn and tasty too, sow first week July
l Chicory radicchio 506TT down before 12th July grows solid heads from October onwards, bittersweet and hardy to some frost, sow before 10th July
l Kale Red Russian is my favourite for July sowing, because its leaves are tasty when small and tender, in salads for example.
Onions
When to bend over the necks and harvest your onions? I wait until some stems have fallen down and this varies according to variety and weather. They are probably ready by mid-July. After pulling, find somewhere undercover to keep them dry. After 10 to 12 days of that, you can cut most of the tops off, leaving 5cm of stem on the bulb, and then finish drying anywhere with ventilation.
l However, the new Allium leaf miner pest makes it less simple to succeed onions. I grew mine under fleece from planting in late March until early June. It has helped a lot, also by conserving moisture this spring.
Tomatoes
I don't feed tomatoes growing in soil, because we spread 4 cm compost in May, which includes horse and cow manure. It feeds soil organisms, which in turn find nutrients for the tomato plants.
l For tomatoes in containers, you need to feed because the root run is less extensive.
An important tomato job in late July is to pinch or cut off the tops of outdoor plants. Then in mid-August, do the same for under cover tomatoes. This prevents new growth and concentrates plant energy into growing and finishing existing fruits, before it’s too dark and cold in October.
Charles Dowding has made no dig popular with millions of readers and viewers. Currently he grows vegetables in Somerset. He has written 14 books and gives talks plus courses at home and abroad.
With ADRIAN BOOTS
With CHARLES DOWDING
MENDIP TIMES
Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faukland, Radstock, BA3 5XF.
T: 01225 962669
E: info@tuckersgraveinn.co.uk
W: www.tuckersgraveinn.co.uk
LET THE MUSIC PLAY AT TUCKER’S
SAT JULY 5th – NONE OF THE ABOVE 8.30pm
SUN JULY 6th – BEN NICHOLLS 2.30pm
FRI JULY 11th – DISCO DAVE 7pm
SAT JULY 12th – THE HAMMERVILLES 8.30pm
SUN JULY 13th – JULY THIEVES 2.30pm
SAT JULY 19th – RAGGED UNION 8.30pm
SUN JULY 20th – BETH CHIVERS 2.30pm
SAT JULY 26th – RUBIX CUBE 8.30pm
SUN JULY 27th – NO MUSIC (PRIVATE EVENT)
SAT JULY 28th – THE GROOVE JACKS8.30pm
SUN JUNE 29th – KEITH HORLER 2.30pm
SAT AUG 2nd – SAD DAD CLUB 8.30pm
NEW FOR THE
SUMMER
LIVE MUSIC EVERY SUNDAY FROM 2PMIN THE PARLOUR/GARDEN (weather permitting)
Parlour/Café: Baguettes, locally produced pasties and sausage rolls available Friday 8am to Sunday 5pm
Breakfasts Saturday and Sunday 8.15-11.30am Friday/Saturday evenings 6-9pm – Fish and chips, gourmet burgers, freshly made pizzas and more. Look out for the specials board!
Food available Sunday
Venue Hire • Camping • Holiday
The Sidcot Arms: a pub with heritage, charm and a fresh beginning
NESTLEDin the heart of the countryside, The Sidcot Arms has recently undergone an extensive transformation, bringing a fresh and modern feel to every corner of the pub. With a brand-new bar, stylish booth seating, an elegant restaurant and a stunning garden room, the space has been completely redesigned. The once-tired interior has been replaced with vibrant and inviting areas designed for comfort, great dining and relaxed socialising.
Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or simply grabbing a coffee or cold drink, you’ll now find a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by a refreshed menu and an even better drinks selection.
Beyond its stunning interiors, the pub boasts breathtaking views, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the scenic surroundings. Whether soaking up the sunshine on the patio or watching the world go by from the garden room, there’s no shortage of idyllic backdrops to accompany great food and drink.
For those looking for a place to rest and recharge, The Sidcot Arms offers comfortable rooms, making it a great option for sightseeing around the local area or travellers passing through. Conveniently located just a short drive from Bristol Airport, it’s ideal for those looking for a warm and welcoming stay before or after their journey.
For those with four-legged companions, The Sidcot Arms is dog-friendly, ensuring every guest, human or canine, is treated to a relaxed and enjoyable visit. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual drink, a meal, an overnight stay, or just some good conversation, The Sidcot Arms is the perfect place to unwind with your furry friend.
The Sidcot Arms also shares its passion for hospitality with its sister pub, The Woodborough Inn which is located only a mile away in Winscombe Village. The Woodborough is well-known in the area for its excellent service, great food, fine drinks, and luxury rooms.
A celebration of Somerset food and drink
CALLINGall Somerset food lovers!
Discover Somerset’s leading naturefriendly farmers and food producers with the Somerset Food Trail Festival from July 18th-27th.
The festival – a countywide celebration of the best sustainably produced food and drink – is the perfect opportunity to explore the region’s most exciting “adventures in food”, from electric bike cheese safaris to pop-up feasts and foraging walks.
Here are just some of the highlights. See the website for full details.
Guided E-bike cheese and cider safaris on every day of the ten-day trail except the Sundays, taking in local dairies, cider farms and vineyards – a full day excursion including all tastings, starting and ending in Bruton.
Higher Farm, near Castle Cary, are offering A Soil to Plate Feast in the Farmyard, with celebrated guest chefs
Margot Henderson and Nye Smith of The Three Horseshoes Batcombe. Guests start with a welcome drink overlooking Glastonbury Tor, followed by a guided farm tour with foraged snacks.
Westcombe Dairy, artisan cheesemakers, near Shepton Mallet are offering tours of the dairy and a cheese and charcuterie tasting. They make proper unpasteurised Somerset cheese and their own charcuterie.
The Pig –near Bath will have acoustic sessions in the Pig’s stunning gardens, “with a side of wood-fired dining and a large glass of something seriously chilled”.
The Heritage Cure, Nr Wellington are offering farm tours to see their glorious curly-haired Mangalitsa pigs and onsite curing facilities, plus a tasting of their delicious charcuterie via a ticketed ‘Thirty Mile Feast’ in their 16th century barn.
Wookey Farm near Wells is open most days during the festival, offering family friendly tours and camping and a chance to
meet the goats and sample goats’ cheeses, delicious milk and other produce from the farm.
Wonky Horn, nr Wivilescombe, a family run organic farm and butchery, is hosting a 5-course ’30 mile feast’ in their stone Barn with Chef Mike Keen sourcing the finest Somerset ingredients to complement beautiful cuts of rare breed 100% pasturefed organic meat from the farm.
Westcombe Dairy
Thirty Mile Feast, Horner Farm, Holnicote Estate, Exmoor two course Summer Feast in their rustic traditional barn, showcasing the wonderful season, using meat from the farm, with veg from their CIC veg plot, July 19th. Somerton Beekeepers – Beekeeping Taster Day, find out fascinating facts about the honey bee and beekeeping, get up close to see their bees at work, participate in demonstrations and sample the honey. July 20th.
Vallis Farm Fete, nr Frome – celebrate summer at Vallis Farm’s Summer Fete. Expect local produce, a sizzling BBQ, stalls, crafts, face painting, storytelling, and live entertainment. Try out their new Wild Swimming Pool and Sauna. July 20th. Flavours of the West Country Food and Drink Day Tour – by Good Stories in Food (Sat 19th & Sun 20th) mainly focused on central and north Somerset cheese and cider producers.
Wedmore Community Farm wander the site at your leisure and experience agroecological food production at a sustainable size, along with their Food Bank Market Garden where staff and volunteers grow and deliver free food to local food banks. They also have a community woodfired sauna, July 21st.
Whitelake Cheese multi award winning cheese producer invites you to discover how they turn goat, sheep and Jersey cow's milk into around 30 different hard and soft cheeses.
Frome Field2Fork Feast: A community market garden within walking distance of Frome town centre, helping people connect with nature, learn nature-friendly growing methods and to access affordable local food.
Mump Market Garden, Burrowbridge tours of this agroecological market garden in the middle of the beautiful Somerset Levels with tastings in the farm shop.
Alfredo’s, a modern Italian restaurant in the pretty market square of Somerton – offering ‘an evening special menu showcasing our best local, sustainable producers’, July 24th. Middlewick Farm Shop and Cafe, Glastonbury will be running two pizza feast nights on Friday 18th and Friday 25th, 6-8pm, serving locally sourced toppings and local beer and cider.
Tricky Cider, Low Ham, nr Langport. Orchard walk and cider tasting and film, 25th July.
Dowdings Cider Open Weekend, nr Bruton wander around and enjoy their 15-acre organic orchard and take a picnic. They’ll be offering tastings of their apple juices, ciders and the opportunity to buy and enjoy either on the day or to take away.
The Slow Farming Company, nr Castle Cary will be firing up their half-ton charcoal BBQ and cooking up various grass-fed beef and free-range pork delights, alongside vegetarian alternatives, July 26th, 6–10pm.
Wood Advent Farm, nr Watchet, unique Exmoor farm tour exploring one of the UK's largest agroforestry schemes, where they produce “nutritious, organic, delicious, native food”, July 26th.
Paddington Farm, Glastonbury is hosting a People’s Picnic Party on the last Sunday of the Food Trail, plus pre-bookable farm tours on Mondays and their regular volunteer morning on Wednesdays.
Burrow Hill Cider/Somerset Cider Brandy ‘20 mile feast’ in the orchard, cooked by Lucas Hollweg and Lucie Reader featuring the best seasonal ingredients from local organic/agroecological farmers within a few miles of Burrow Hill, July 27th. West Country Water Buffalo, Chilthorne Domer near Yeovil, family run farm with a herd of around 250 water buffalo, free to range in their lush green fields.
Details: www.somersetfoodtrail.org
Vineyard tours
l Fenny Castle Vineyard near Wookey: Tours on 19th and 26th July, featuring tastings of still and sparkling wines, along with a winemaking talk.
l Mowbarton Vineyard near Wedmore: Open on 19th July from 2–6pm, offering tours at 2.30pm and 4pm.
l Limeburn Hill Vineyard near Chew Magna: Tours available on 25th July from 5–7pm and 27th July from 2–4pm.
l Saddle Goose Winery, Frome: Offering tasting flights throughout the festival, paired with local produce.
l Wraxall Vineyard, Ditcheat: Tours with panoramic views and a Supper Club featuring Noah’s Fish Restaurant on 25th July.
l Smith & Evans Vineyard near Langport: Self-guided tours and tastings available on Saturday mornings from 10am–4pm.
Fenny Castle
Wookey Farm
Buy tickets early for Frome Cheese Show
ADVANCE tickets are now on sale for Frome Agricultural & Cheese Show, which returns on Saturday, September 13th, promising an unforgettable day packed with food, farming and, of course, cheese!
The show proudly hosts the Global Cheese Awards, attracting entries from across the globe. In the bustling Cheese Pavilion, visitors can sample award-winning varieties, meet artisan makers, and shop from a mouth-watering selection – a true paradise for cheese lovers.
New this year, the Village Green will see Moto Stunts International, delivering adrenaline-pumping motorcycle displays including high-speed ramp jumps, crossover quad stunts, and gravity-defying leaps over cars, vans and even tractors!
In the Livestock Village, the much-loved Sheep Show returns with its hilarious and educational stage performances featuring dancing sheep and live shearing demonstrations.
On the Music Stage, Frome favourites The Hammervilles will have the crowd dancing with a high-energy rock set spanning the '70s to today.
That’s not all – don’t miss the Six Bar Show Jumping
competition, the spectacular Grand Parade of Livestock, Vintage Vehicles, and the buzzing Food Hall, alongside Horticulture and Home & Handicraft exhibits showcasing local creativity.
For families, the Little Showgoers’ Play Zone is back bigger and better offering completely free entertainment, from Pottery Painting and Sand Art to Face Painting and even a Land Rover Safari!
Advance tickets available at: www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk
Just champion: Frome Cheese Show is back
London bound MENDIP
BLAGDON artist, Martin Bentham, has had a painting selected for the Royal Academy’s summer exhibition, which runs until August 17th. There were 18,000 entries, with 1,729 works selected.
His intricate painting, Wasp Nest, oil on linen, painted in 2022, is based on a wasp’s next found in a nearby village. The subject fits the academy’s theme this year of “ecology, survival and how we live together”.
Martin said: “I’m delighted to get something into one of the biggest shows in Britain.”
He’s now preparing to exhibit at the Royal West of England Academy in Bristol. He was made an Academician there in 2009.
Another busy year for Ian
Suspension. One of Ian’s latest works
IAN Marlow is one of the sponsors of the Frome Festival, which he further supports by opening his garden and studio to the public throughout the festival week, making his sculpture exhibition an annual event in July.
Since moving to Buckland Dinham, near Frome, 25 years ago, Ian has created a unique and unusual garden. Set behind the houses and nestled beneath a canopy of trees, it has become an enclosed space bathed in a dappled light, soft and shaded, a haven from the chaos of the world.
Here, amid the ferns and architectural planting, he displays his sculptures in bold stainless steel, vibrant glass and patinated bronze, bringing renewed energy to this tranquil setting.
This year has proved to be another busy and successful onw for Ian, full of exhibitions in the UK and Europe as well as making new works for exhibition during the festival. Ian says he always likes to make sure there are a variety of new sculptures for visitors to see, both in the garden and studio. The new works this year include a series of hanging sculptures with suspended sections that allow them to move in the breeze.
He said: “The great thing about an exhibition like this is that it provides an opportunity for people to see the work in an informal setting and to talk about the sculptures and the processes involved in creating them.
“It is also is good from the artist’s perspective to be able to engage with visitors and discuss the work.”
l Ian is a member of the Royal Society of Sculptors. His exhibition is open each day throughout the Frome Festival (July 5th-13th, 11am-5pm) at the Sculpture Garden, Ebenezer Chapel, Buckland Dinham, Frome. BA11 2QT. Tel: 01373 471711.
Martin at the Royal Academy
Barrington Tabb success
LAST month, nearly 200 guests joined us at All Saints’ Church, Clifton, for Barrington Tabb: Celebrating the Man Behind the Brush – a private exhibition and moving tribute to the life and legacy of one of Bristol’s most beloved painters.
With the dramatic John Piper windows as a backdrop and an inspiring talk by the Rev Charles Sutton, we experienced the church in its full sensory and spiritual depth.
We were pleased to welcome many members of Barrington’s family, along with the newly appointed Lord Mayor of Bristol, Councillor Henry Michallat, who shared his admiration for a painter who truly captured the soul of the city.
Marc Burridge, Managing Director of Clevedon Salerooms, said: “It is an honour for Clevedon Salerooms to be asked to auction the studio of such a celebrated artist as Barrington Tabb. The remarkable turnout to the preview is a testament to his enduring popularity amongst the people of Bristol and beyond.”
The celebration continued into the following week as Clevedon Salerooms held a landmark auction of 25 works from Tabb’s studio. With strong interest from private collectors and the wider public, the sale saw enthusiastic bidding throughout and raised a total just shy of £10,000.
Among the highlights:
• The Decay of Old Bristol Industrial Museum, Bristol – £780
• Park Street, Bristol – £720
These top lots reflect the continued appreciation for Tabb’s textured, expressive oil paintings of the city’s streets, docks, and daily life. Known for a unique style shaped in part by an eye condition that blurred his central vision, Tabb once said:
“Sometimes it can improve my paintings very, very much, due to this distortion . . . I want to give vent to the distortion as well as the emotion.”
Senior Valuer and BBC Antiques
Roadshow expert Chris Yeo reflected: “The response to both the exhibition and auction has been deeply gratifying. Barrington’s work resonated with so many because it is, quite simply, Bristol in paint, its life, its soul, its history.”
The enthusiastic reception of both the exhibition and sale affirms what many have long believed, Barrington Tabb's legacy is not just secure, it’s flourishing.
This is the first group of works from Barrington Tabb’s studio to be offered at Clevedon Salerooms. Further works will be sold in the forthcoming months with the next group of approximately 25 paintings featuring in the Autumn Fine Art sale on Thursday 11th September.
MENDIP TIMES ARTS & ANTIQUES
Toby Pinn RICS –certified valuations of the arts
OUR Home Contents Valuation Report is frequently requested for the purposes of calculating inheritance tax (IHT) but can also be tailored for other valuation purposes including insurance, matrimonial and family division and estate planning.
Valuations for IHT purposes are prepared in accordance with S.160 of the Inheritance Tax Act 1984. HMRC recommend using a qualified valuer for this purpose. The starting point is the HMRC IHT 407 form used to file the return of household and personal goods which must include all jewellery, antiques, collections and motor vehicles.
With more than 20 years’ experience as an RICS chartered arts and antiques surveyor, Toby has refined the format of the valuation report, physically tagging each item with a corresponding image, description and value, eliminating confusion between similar items and allowing executors to keep track of all items during the estate administration.
Toby also offers a range of services to assist with the next stages including distribution to beneficiaries, sale at specialist auctions and final clearing of a property.
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Mendip Times is available from over 900 outlets across the Mendips from superstores to village stores and post offices, farm shops, supermarkets, garden centres, pubs, inns, hotels and restaurants, doctors’ surgeries, libraries and tourist information centres.
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Sounds of Africa
THE proceeds from Chew Stoke Church School’s annual fun run helped fund the school's “International Week”, which focused on the continent of Africa.
A major highlight was African drumming and dance workshops, led by visiting specialists.
Eco-dancers
TEXTILEartist Chloe Haywood has supported Draycott & Rodney Stoke First School in making eco-friendly country dancing costumes.
When the school sought costumes for a competition, Chloe repurposed textiles from the prestigious Royal Ballet and Opera House.
She also transformed second-hand school uniforms into striking outfits that not only celebrated the art of dance but also reinforced eco-friendly values.
The pupils proudly donned their custom outfits during the much-anticipated festival held at Brent Knoll Primary School on Friday, June 6th.
Head teacher, Sarah Netto, said: "This project not only showcases the talent of our students but also serves as a reminder of how creativity and sustainability can intersect."
New appointment
DAVID Wiltshire has been appointed as the new Director of Secondary Phase Education by the Kings of Wessex Trust.
Until recently he was best known as the highly successful headteacher of Kings Academy, in Cheddar, a role he took on in 2020.
In those years, the trust says he guided the school with clarity, compassion and a deep understanding of what makes a school community thrive.
But education wasn’t always part of David’s plan. After studying biochemistry at Aberystwyth University, he took an unexpected turn into the wine trade, enjoying a successful career in business before eventually discovering a new passion in education.
David said: “The landscape of education has changed significantly, especially in the world of multi-academy trusts. Alongside ensuring the highest standards in education for all our young people, our schools have their foundations built upon business models and economies of scale.”
The trust said that blend of strategic thinking and people-first leadership has made David a respected figure not just within his school, but also in the wider Multi Academy Trust community, where he sits on the executive team working to raise standards, broaden opportunities and improve outcomes for young people.
Careers in health and fitness
Adam Spencer
ADAMSpencer, aged 38, from Wells has turned his passion for fitness into a career. From being an A-level student in physical education he is now senior general manager for the whole Mendip region with leisure charity Fusion Lifestyle.
Fusion says with Brits now choosing to spend more of their disposable income on health and fitness than eating out and drinking socially, there's never been a better time to consider a career in leisure and fitness.
Adam says he has loved every minute of his career with Fusion, where he was encouraged to take his master’s degree in leadership and management – an opportunity he says he will always be grateful for, and all funded with Fusion’s Apprenticeship Levy.
Working with Fusion for over ten years, Adam says his passion for the fitness industry is now focussed on meeting the physical, mental and social needs of his communities in Mendip.
He has primary responsibility for Fusion’s Wells Sport and Fitness, Strode Swimming Pool and Shepton Mallet Lido and supports his teams with coaching and mentoring.
Adam believes anyone is capable of improving their health and mental wellbeing, regardless of fitness levels.
He said: “The goal of attaining the perfect body type just isn’t true of our industry today. We are a home for anyone who makes the brave decision to take that first step, try a class, try a swim, find what you love and just enjoy doing it.”
Fusion is currently recruiting for several roles at their Wells Sport and Fitness and Tor Sports and Leisure centres.
Details: https://www.fusion.careers/jobs/home/
Grounds for possession under the Renters’ Rights bill
THE Renters’ Rights Bill, currently progressing through the UK Parliament, proposes significant reforms to the private rental sector in England. A key aspect is the abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions, requiring landlords to rely on specific grounds under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988 to regain possession of their properties.
Understanding these grounds and the necessary evidence is crucial for landlords navigating the new legal landscape.
Mandatory Grounds for Possession: Under the proposed reforms, certain grounds for possession are mandatory, meaning the court must grant possession if the landlord provides sufficient evidence. Key mandatory grounds include:
• Ground 1:Landlord or Family Occupation: Landlords can seek possession if they or close family members intend to occupy the property as their principal home. This ground cannot be used within the first 12 months of the tenancy. Evidence required includes a statement of truth detailing the intention to occupy.
• Ground 1A: Intention to Sell: Landlords intending to sell the property can seek possession after the first 12 months of the tenancy. Evidence may include a letter of engagement from a solicitor or estate agent confirming the intent to sell.
• Ground 8: Rent Arrears: If the tenant has at least three months' rent arrears at the time of the notice and the court hearing,
the landlord can seek possession. Evidence includes a rent schedule showing the arrears.
• Ground 8A: Repeated Rent Arrears: A new ground where the tenant has been in at least two months’ arrears on three separate occasions over a three-year period. Evidence includes documentation of the arrears history.
Discretionary Grounds for Possession. Discretionary grounds allow the court to decide whether to grant possession based on the circumstances. Notable discretionary grounds include:
• Ground 10: Some Rent Arrears: Applicable when rent is lawfully due at the time of the notice and court proceedings. Evidence includes a rent statement.
• Ground 11: Persistent Delay in Rent Payments: For tenants with a history of late rent payments. Evidence includes a rent payment history highlighting delays.
• Ground 14: Anti-Social Behaviour: Covers behaviour “capable of causing” nuisance or annoyance. Evidence may include witness statements, police reports, or other documentation of the behaviour.
Court Process and Evidence Requirements. To initiate possession proceedings, landlords must serve a notice specifying the ground(s) for possession and adhere to the required notice periods:
• Grounds 1 and 1A: Four months’ notice.
• Ground 8: Four weeks’ notice.
• Ground 10 & 11: Four weeks notice.
• Ground 14: Proceedings can commence immediately after serving notice.
Landlords must provide evidence supporting the ground(s) cited, such as statements of truth, rent schedules, or documentation of anti-social behaviour. The court will assess the evidence to determine whether to grant possession. Understanding the specific grounds for possession and the associated evidence requirements is essential for landlords under the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill. Proper adherence to the legal process will be crucial in successfully regaining possession of rental properties. All this can takes time and money and can have an uncertain outcome. Ultimately the art is in selecting a reliable and responsible tenant in the first place.
EDWARD LYONS
Local travel firm marks £1million year –and launches Mendip-focused brand
GINGETours & Travel, run by Geoff and Jo Wessell from their base in Rickford near Burrington, is celebrating a standout third year in business, having achieved over £1million in sales in the past 12 months alone.
Now, on the back of that success, the couple are launching a new sister company: Mendip Travel, created especially for those living and working in the Mendip Hills and surrounding areas.
They say: “We’ve always looked after customers from the Mendips, now we’re giving that service its own name – Mendip Travel – and adding local perks like discounted airport parking and transfers from both Bristol and the London airports.”
Mendip Travel offers the same personal concierge-style service as Ginge Tours – whether it’s a city break, cruise from Southampton, or a tailor-made adventure.
Jo said: “You’ll always deal with us directly – no call centres, no faceless websites – just real people who live in your community and care.”
And for extra peace of mind, all holidays are fully financially protected thanks to their membership of Protected Trust Services (www.protectedtrustservices.com, Member No. 5864)
– giving customers the same reassurance they’d expect from the biggest names on the High Street.
To mark the launch, Mendip Times readers can claim halfprice airport parking on any holiday booking confirmed during July or August – just quote “Mendip Times July”.
Mendip Basecamp’s national award
MENDIPBasecamp, a family adventure campsite set in the heart of the Mendip Hills, was announced as Silver winner at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025 in the coveted category of Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year.
This means that Mendip Basecamp is officially the second-best campsite in the country, after being named best in the South West.
It was one of just three finalists in its category, selected from over 1,800 initial entries submitted through 21 local competitions across the country.
Andrew Stokes, Director at VisitEngland, said: “These annual awards are an opportunity to applaud and showcase the businesses and individuals who provide outstanding customer service and continuously improve their products and offer for visitors.”
Founded in 2020 in the midst of the
COVID-19 pandemic, Mendip Basecamp was created to offer families a safe, outdoor place to reconnect during uncertain times. Five years on, it has grown into one of the South West’s most popular family holiday destinations.
As part of the wider Mendip Adventure group, Basecamp gives guests the chance to disconnect from technology and plug into over 20 adventurous activities from rock
climbing to archery, caving to paddleboarding, skiing to tobogganing –all led by passionate, qualified instructors.
Managing director, David Eddins, said: “Winning Silver at the Visit England Awards is a huge honour and a proud moment for our whole team. Our mission is simple but powerful: to inspire everyone, everywhere to make time for adventure. This recognition tells us we’re doing just that – and we’re only getting started.”
George Combe, marketing manager, said: “This award is a nod to the hard work of our entire team, the support of our wonderful guests and an appreciation of the extraordinary landscape we get to call home. The Mendip Hills are a hidden treasure in the heart of Somerset and we’re lucky to be able to share them.”
Camping spaces are available from £7 (child) and £11 (adult) per night. Rental tents sleep six and are from £60 per night.
Pictured (l to r) David Eddins, Phil Turner, Ayesha Cantrell and George Combe
(Photo courtesy
VisitBritain/Christopher Orange)
From highways to driveways . . .
A SURFACING company with more than 50 years’ experience in the industry is targeting an additional new sector – the domestic market.
Highways Plus, based in Paulton, has launched Driveways Plus, a stand-alone company, which aims to transform home driveways. The company says: “Transform your home’s entrance with expertly crafted driveways designed for durability and style.
“Offering a range of high-quality materials, we create tailored solutions to enhance curb appeal while ensuring long-lasting performance. Whether upgrading or installing from scratch, our team delivers precision, reliability, and a flawless finish for the perfect driveway.”
The business is led by Tony Flook, who boasts more than 25 years of experience in the highways, civils and surfacing sectors. Having operated at home and abroad Tony’s experience is admirable and his reputation one to be proud of within the industry.
Highways Plus core services include road surfacing, pavement repairs, signage installation, traffic management, and infrastructure upgrades, delivering reliable highway solutions across the South West, the Thames Valley and South Wales.
With increasing government infrastructure spending and ageing road networks, it says there is consistent demand for reliable highway contractors.
Experts in commercial surfacing & civils
l Our capabilities encompass all surfacing and civils disciplines. If you have something specific that you would like to discuss get in touch.
l Our core services include road surfacing, pavement repairs, signage installation, traffic management and infrastructure upgrades.
l Other services include:
l Backlog Defect Resolution
l Warehouse Yards
l Tennis Courts
l Footpaths and Paving
We’re here to answer your questions, provide expert advice, or arrange a site visit. Let’s discuss your next project.
Contact:
Call: 01761 202 012
Email: info@highwaysplus.co.uk
Highways Plus, Paulton House, Old Mills, Paulton, Bristol BS39 7SX
Tony Flook
. . . an exciting new venture
It offers both public, housing associations and commercial clients a full range of highway services. It can also offer services to the warehousing and haulage industries by way of its heavyduty services – and can even install tennis courts!
Non-executive director, Mike Clancy, said: “Highways Plus and Driveways Plus –follow a culture of Safety, Quality, Time and Cost ensuring that their clients return time and again, and feel confident recommending us to their family, friends and colleagues. Our turn key solutions, which are deployed across the private and public sectors, deliver agile packages, which ensure the desired outcomes are achieved at optimal commercial value.”
Mike Clancy
Dedication service
THErefurbished church bells at St Andrew’s Church in Compton Dundon were dedicated by the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt Rev Michael Beasley.
The ringing peal includes two historical bells cast by the Austen family in Compton Dundon in 1663 and 1680.
The church was full for the service with people from the community plus the benefice churches in Street and Walton. The bells were heard on local TV and radio.
The bells, the bells
ST Bartholomew’s Church in Ubley was visited by David Matthews, a farmer’s son from Tytherington in Gloucestershire, who has set himself a target to ring quarter peals at every church in the UK.
He had rung in 6,223 churches, making Ubley the 6,224th on his list. After ringing there he also rang at Croscombe, Litton and Clutton on the same day.
The photo shows the Ubley team who rang with him, with Ubley churchwarden, Christie Peacock, who is also a keen bellringer.
Vicar’s farewell
THEvillages of Pensford, Publow, Woollard, Compton Dando and Chelwood have bid farewell to the Rev Denise Calverley who is moving to a full time post at Yatton after nearly nine years being based at Pensford.
Andrew Hillman, churchwarden at All Saints’, Publow thanked Denise on behalf of parishioners. He said how much they had valued having Denise and husband, Richard, in the village and enjoyed seeing their three children grow from teenagers to adults.
Ten Tors challenge
IT was the 50th year that the Gordano and Axe Scout Districts have taken part in Ten Tors on Dartmoor, with over 120 scouts joining the 2,400 taking part in the event overall.
It included a contingent from 1st Blagdon Scouts. Three of its members, Lucy, Eliza and Sam have been presented with Chief Scout Gold awards, Scouting’s top honour.
Chapel open
ST HUGH’SChapel at Charterhouse is open to visitors every Sunday afternoon over the summer, 2-5pm.
One of those organising the Sunday teas, Chris Ball, said: “If you have never been it really is worth visiting. The rural location up on Mendip itself is idyllic.
“The surrounding fields, often with sheep in them and with birds swooping overhead, can take you back to a lost era. The building itself is listed grade II* by Historic England and was largely completed in 1908.
“Inside it has a beautiful simplicity to it, with very interesting features and details, very different from its external appearance.
“There are many features to enjoy, but children in particular are fascinated by the small portable stone font, originally used for baptisms before the current building was constructed, and the wooden statues of King Arthur and St Hugh himself.”
Golfers support charity
The winners from Fiveways Financial Planning
THE Rotary Club of Mendip raised £3,000 at its recent golf day for local charity Heads Up and rotary charities, with 19 teams taking part.
Rotary president, Tom Elson, said: “As I near the end of my first year as club president, I am delighted that our largest fundraising event was a real team effort, showing Mendip Rotary at its best.”
Wells based Heads Up works with adults experiencing mental ill health and dementia, as well as those with learning and physical disabilities. They provide activitybased therapeutic learning and development workshops with a communal kitchen.
Service director, Bridget Harvey, and outreach clinical lead, Alison Hynes, who represented Heads Up on the day, said: “What a wonderful way to get people together, doing something they enjoy, whilst raising funds to support others.”
Charity brew
DORSETand Somerset Air Ambulance has announced the return of its favourite self-led fundraising event, Brew for the Crew.
It says: “Why not join the celebrations by getting together with friends, family or colleagues to enjoy a brew, share a sweet treat, and raise vital funds to support the air ambulance’s critical work?”
A fundraising pack is available.
Details: www.dsairambulance.org.uk
Wedmore ride
THIS year's Wedmore 4030 charity cycle ride will take place on Sunday, August 31st supporting Weston Hospicecare and The Friends of St Mary's Wedmore.
There is a brand new 30-mile route on quiet roads, which features the best of the Isle of Wedmore and the surrounding Somerset Levels.
There will also be the usual challenging 40-mile route through the Mendip Hills as well as the increasingly popular family friendly 12-mile route.
BATHCats and Dogs Home says it has seen an influx of 27 cats and 31 kittens in May and expects to care for over 100 kittens in total this year. It blames the high cost of living causing financial strain for pet owners and the unusually warm spring weather increasing interaction between cats.
It says: “Caring for an unexpected litter of kittens can be stressful and costly as each kitten costs a minimum of £200 for basic care and as a result sadly many cats and kittens are cruelly abandoned, leaving animal rescue centres to cope with the pressure.”
It’s launched an appeal for funds to cope.
Details: www.bcdh.org.uk
Charity fashion show
A FASHIONshow held in Wedmore village hall raised £4,000 for the charity Help the Child. Organisers sold 130 tickets for a sit down two-course supper with a glass of Prosecco and a raffle at the end.
Claire Bidwell showcased 42 outfits from her Lime summer collection and a wedding dress was modelled by Melanie from Bohemia wedding dresses in Wedmore.
Sisters snack stall
WALKERSalong the West Mendip Way in Shipham can pick up refreshments, thanks to two enterprising young sisters.
Arabella, aged eight, and Ottilie, aged four, have set up a little stall in their garden at Winterhead Hill Farm.
They’re selling a selection of chilled fizzy drinks, water, crisps, and flapjacks to passing walkers, as well as offering free doggy treats, to raise money for the local cat rescue centre, as well as earning a little bit of pocket money for themselves.
Mum, Lucy Gabb, said: “Their first customer was Daddy! It’s been a lovely way for them to get involved with the community, support a good cause, and learn a little about running their own venture.”
In memory of Emily
THEJenny Peplow Singers will be performing a fundraising concert on Friday, July 11th, 7.15pm, at Midsomer Norton High Street Methodist Church in aid of the Emily Rose Foundation.
Emily Rose Browning, who was born and raised in Midsomer Norton, died in her sleep from a cardiac arrest, aged 24.
Her boyfriend, Jack Weston, set up the foundation via the GoFundMe website and to date has raised well over £30,000. All proceeds from the concert will go to Gladstone Primary School in Cardiff where Emily taught. A memorial garden is planned there along with the purchase of a minibus. The concert will have free entry for up to 250 people with retiring donations for the foundation. There will also be a performance from the Madeleine Claire Youth Vocal Group along with interval refreshments and a raffle.
Ronnie’s farewell
RONNIE Brown, philanthropy director of Quartet Community Foundation, has retired after 31 years. Various tributes were paid including one that said he was the heart and soul of the charity’s philanthropy mission, touching countless lives.
During his time with Quartet it has awarded £80million in grants and built its endowment fund to £60million, the second largest of any community foundation in Britain. It covers North East Somerset and North Somerset as well as Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
Help the Child committee members
Claire Bidwell (left) with Helen, one of the six models on the evening
Emily Rose Browning
Chief executive, Anna Smith (left) with Ronnie Brown
Charity runner
BECKS Tovey, who lives with her family in High Littleton, has completed the Jog 31 Miles Challenge, running a mile a day in May, raising £1,200 for the Bowelbabe cancer charity.
She took on the challenge after hearing that a friend from college days had been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
She said: “Her courage and resilience is inspiring and every step of those 31 miles I ran was for Debbie and everyone affected by cancer, in all its forms. I was also thinking of my dear late friend Lisa Fillingham.
“I want to thank every single person who took the time to sponsor me - from a neighbour walking her dog in the woods who saw me running wearing my Bowelbabe T-shirt to my amazing family and friends who donated so much.”
Choirs combine
ANOTHERsuccessful concert, featuring two local choirs, was held by the Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge and raised £1,200 for the Great Western Air Ambulance and other charities supported by the club.
The concert at St John’s Church in Keynsham featured the Mendip Male Voice Choir, led by musical director, Caroline Lowe and accompanied by pianist, Claire Hodgkin, and Vox in Frox, led by musical director, Kate Courage and accompanied by pianist, Dominic Irving.
Mountain challenge in memory of Pat
A TEAM from Heidelberg Materials’ Whatley quarry, near Frome ,have successfully completed the Three Peaks Challenge within 24 hours, climbing the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in memory of a late colleague, who died from heart failure.
Last December, Pat Orman, an
electrician at Whatley quarry for over 20 years, died suddenly. Since then, the team has been determined to turn their loss into positive action and find a fitting way to commemorate him.
The challenge raised money for The British Heart Foundation and saw the team climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in the Lake District and Snowdon in Wales – a total ascent of 10,052ft.
The Whatley quarry team comprised of area general manager, Vincent Pitt, process engineer, James Veakins, rail logistics manager, Dan Welch, engineering manager, Shaun Eaton, unit manager, Kyle Smith, operations manager, Chris O’Connor, and support driver, recycling manager, Dan Billing.
Severe weather conditions caused delays, including poor visibility and 55mph winds on Scafell Pike and a fallen tree on Snowdon, which meant they had to be redirected, adding time and distance to their challenge.
The team complete challenge
Despite these conditions, the team ran the last three miles down Snowdon to complete the challenge with just 63 seconds to spare.
So far, the team has raised over £7,000 through its Just Giving fundraising page, with donations from family and friends, as well as customers and suppliers, plus Heidelberg Materials’ charity matching scheme.
The challenge was undertaken in memory of colleague Pat Orman
Becks with her running companion Humphrey
* expenses paid
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Want to help? Find out more about the role and apply here: www.volunteering.somerset.gov.uk/drive
Alternatively, email gemma.ruffle@somerset.gov.uk or call 07855 285464 to make a difference in your community.
Peasedown Party in the Park
Timsbury Village Day
Somer Valley Rotary ran the barbecue
Sue Walker helps run the village's monthly market
Some of the entrants in the dog show
Tombola was popular
Peasedown St John school choir
Jennifer Lewis-Mason, who is trying to raise £50,000 for a war memorial in the village. She was joined by Chelsea pensioners Alan Rutter (left) and Archie Ferguson
We Hear You charity Kathy French (left), Lucy Kichener and Robbie Newton
The secret woodland
By CHRIS
HARDLY a week goes by when nature or the environment does not feature as a major news item, especially when, of course, we see what seems to amount to a full-on attack on nature by the government.
The buzzword is still nature recovery, yet a cynical me wonders how much of this is lost in the three-year project cycle and the tick box operation. Does cynicism come with age, or is this just experience? Answers on a postcard, please.
Of the many sites I’m privileged to visit, one site I visited in June this year really stands out. This deciduous woodland was such a special place that the landowner barred me from mentioning its location.
Even within two weeks of it being June, bluebells were everywhere in the more open areas of the woodland. The woodland was dominated by oak, ash and alder, although I was very excited to come across several wild service trees as well. which have become quite scarce. Some of the trees were heavily clad in moss, giving the whole woodland that feel of a temperate rain forest. Thick ivy was allowed to have its unique symbiotic relationship with the trees, providing both
cover for nesting and food for many. Insects abound, with many speckled wood butterflies easily observed, but the real “wow” moment was the flies. It seems so long ago that I was followed around a woodland by so many flies. In my youth (long time ago) at most locations this was normal, but it’s a very rare sight these days. At this location there was literally a cloud of flies following me around; so much so that, unlike during my youth, I was very pleased to see them.
But in my short time in this woodland, what really made me stop in my tracks and think was the birds; the woodland air was full of bird sound, not just song but also so many young birds calling to be fed. I have been in many woodlands over the course of this season, but I have not come across such tremendous diversity and such numerous young birds calling. Species such as song thrush and blackbird were literally everywhere and, on the edge of the woodland, young from the now scarce mistle thrush were clearly observed. Several groups of nuthatches during the walk were found, each representing adults leading young through the woodland on training missions to search out rich insect prey. The now rare spotted flycatcher was heard singing and observed returning to its tree hole nest, along with its stunning black and white relative, the pied flycatcher.
Indeed, I watched in awe as two pairs of pied flycatchers fed their young, one pair with theee young and the other with two recently fledged juveniles. The list of observations could go on.
But as I stood listening, observing and absorbing the atmosphere of this woodland paradise, I pondered whether this secret place was indeed the benchmark that others should follow?
Update on the Hawk and Owl Trust webcam: our Somerset Levels owls have now hatched four young and if you wish to follow their progress live on your phone or computer, then just go to www.hawkandowltrust.org.uk and click on webcams.
l I shall be leading walks through the autumn and winter in the local area. If you or a group of you would like to join, then message me. I’m also taking talk bookings should your group wish an evening lecture.
Speckled wood butterfly
Young pied flycatcher
Nuthatches exchanging food
Adult pied flycatcher
Walking the woods and coastline around Weston
SUMMERTIMEand we are off to the seaside! We follow the Tidal Trail through woodland alongside the Severn estuary from Kewstoke on the southern end of Sand Bay accompanied by the sound of the water in the bay, wind in the trees, while enjoying wonderful vistas. Then continue close by historic Birnbeck Pier and other interesting parts of old Weston which I certainly hadn’t seen before. Enjoy a sheltered café on the Tidal Trail close to the estuary. A steep climb follows up to an ancient hill fort and on through beautiful Weston Woods with a surprise plaque on the way. The circle is short, but it is challenging with steep climbs and one fairly long stepped climb to Worlebury Hill fort.
With Sue Gearing
PARK: Beach Road car park, Kewstoke, BS22 9YE. This is at the very southern end of Sand Bay near Kewstoke, £3 all day.
START: Go out by the large RNLI board and an information board and into the woods, up steps to the road. Cross over, take steps up towards a bike jump course and turn right on the path which parallels the road – originally the Toll Road linking Kewstoke with Weston.
1. TIDAL TRAIL
The path you are on is part of the North Somerset Tidal Trail and the England Coast Path, running alongside the water. You get glimpses of the channel through trees as you progress and better views later on. There are one or two benches on the way. The path is flat and easy under foot but with several ups and downs, with one or two being quite steep, but short. After about 1.25 miles ascend on a winding path up to a bench seat and reach a crossing main track. Turn right and drop down to the road.
2. ROAD
Cross with care and continue on the pavement. As you approach Birnbeck pier, go down a narrow path on the right alongside a green metal fence. This gives you a much closer view of the pier.
3. PIER
Known as ‘the old pier’, it opened in 1867
with great celebrations and was a cherished feature of Weston-super-Mare for many years – an entertainment centre and a stopping-off place for pleasure steamers. It is the only pier in the country that connects the mainland to an island (Birnbeck Island). After having several owners, it has been bought by North Somerset Council and a massive restoration project is underway, which among other features will include work on the lifeboat house to restore the Weston lifeboat to the island.
Follow the path back up to the road. Cross over and go up steps. Stay on the first level and turn right along to a very iconic handsome shelter, a great place to rest and look at the view. Continue on down to the road again passing the entrance to Consort Gardens.
Turn right a metre or two towards the bus stop and cross the road again to a Tarmac parking area. Cross this, go on down more steps to another flat area. Cross, turn right and at the side of a red brick building, go down even more steps.
4. THE COVE
Now walk along close to the estuary – still the Tidal Trail – and soon come to the Cove, a wonderfully situated café right by a small cove, with seating outside, or inside in inclement weather. Carry on round staying on this level and soon get a view of the restored marine lake. Why not bring your swimming gear! Before the large RNLI shop, go left up steep steps
which bend right and take you onto the road on the edge of Weston.
5. WESTON
Now we have a section in the old part of town. Cross and go up Paragon Road, climbing. Ignore side roads and continue to a T-junction. Turn right passing a mixture of old and new properties. Turn left up a No Through Road, passing modern garages under houses on the right. Follow it uphill and bend right. At the end take the public footpath by the “ancient monument” sign which will take us up to Worlebury Hill and the hill fort 358 ft above sea level. This is a steep section of over 60 steep steps, so take your time and stop to look out over the town to the bay.
6. HILL FORT
Worlebury Camp (or Worlebury Hillfort) is the site of a very significant and imposing Iron Age hillfort although occupation probably dates back further to the Prehistoric period. It was an imposing fort which was well defended with numerous walls, embankments and ditches around the site. Several large triangular platforms have been uncovered around the sides of the fort, lower down on the hillside which could have been for archers defending the fort. Nearly 100 storage pits of various sizes were cut into the bedrock and many of these contained human remains, coins, and other artefacts. Remains of weapons
were also found. During the 19th and 20th centuries the fort suffered damage and was threatened with complete destruction on multiple occasions. Now, the site is a designated Scheduled Monument and important work has been done by volunteers to clear vegetation and generally clear up the area.
The fort area would not have been obscured by trees and its inhabitants would have had a clear view of the countryside as well as any potential invaders. They would have been able to get sightings over to Sugar Loaf Mountain, the Black Mountains, the Mendip Hills, Dunkery Beacon, Sand Point and Wales.
At the top turn right on the main path taking us through the old hill fort area. Maintain direction, passing a fenced area on the left. Later on keep on through two banks/walls of stone.
These form the boundary of the hillfort and are collapsed remains of walls that protected it when it was built more than 2,000 years ago. They would have provided significant protection to anyone defending them. They would also have made the hillfort an impressive and imposing presence in the local area.
Follow the path through the beautiful Weston Woods local nature reserve always in the same direction, ignoring side turns. At a junction of tracks with bridleway signs, continue straight on.
7. RESERVOIR
Reach a large reservoir with water tower and satellite towers which you pass on the left. Join a concrete section of path and pass a blue plaque about General Eisenhower’s stay here in preparation for D-Day.
The Supreme Allied Commander for Europe, he stayed overnight here in 1944 as part of his preparations for the D-Day landings and slept in a caravan near the water tower. The area was full of American servicemen, with officers staying in hotels and other ranks sleeping under canvas in Ellenborough Park.
8. LEFT TURN
Just past this, reach an information board on the left about the heritage of Weston Woods. Here, turn left following the path through the woods. Later, at a bench and crossing track, carry straight on, dropping downhill. Continue all the way down still through Weston Woods. Near the end of this track, when you can just see buildings in Kewstoke ahead, and by a wooden post, turn down left on a smaller path.
9. PATH
Reach a crossing path and turn left. Soon reach the bike jump area and turn right down steps, across the road and on down across to the car park.
3.8 miles, about 2.5 hours walking • OS Explorer Map 153 Weston-super-Mare & Bleadon Hill, grid ref: 329 632. What3words: liked.clip.engage
West Countryman’s diary
NO comments about the weather this time because I’m quite happy with it. Yes, we need the rain and that is being provided. It will never be like Goldilocks’ porridge (just right) as for us it’s either too hot, too cold, too wet or too dry! I spent a very pleasant afternoon looking at an old orchard at Kingston Seymour in North Somerset. It has been chosen as a starting point for a potential new initiative to save many of the old orchards that have fallen into disrepair in recent years.
An article in the Telegraph newspaper highlighted the threat that these old orchards are under and the importance of their existence for bio-diversity, our health and wellbeing, as well as being a living catalogue of our agricultural past.
This coming September will mark my 57th year of working with apple trees. Ask anyone about the things they think of when Somerset is mentioned and amongst the replies will be cheese and cider. Somerset is a rich dairy county with fertile soil and plenty of grass. It’s also that fertile soil that provides the ideal base for orchards.
With a change in the climate of post-Roman Britain, apple trees and cider began to take over from wine growing that had traditionally taken place for over 350 years. It was arguably the cross pollination of the Roman domestic sweet and sharp flavoured apples with our wild crab that produced apples of high tannin and acid content. What we refer to today as the “Cider apple”.
If you’re able to take a look at an ordnance survey map of the early 1900s, you will see many more orchards marked on the map than exist today. The only reasons we know that many existed on the ground are the place names such as Orchard Road, Bramley Close and so on.
So often when new builds take place within a village, it’s the old orchards that go first. They are considered no longer viable. Their origins are rooted in the days when part of a farm worker’s wage was paid in cider and the needs of fruit for the farmhouse. They were also “hospitals” for livestock that needed to be kept close to the farm as well as providing a certain amount of shelter.
The post-war orchards of Somerset tended to reflect the needs of the larger cider makers who were now coming on the scene. Coates Cider in Nailsea was a classic, together with the Showerings brothers of Shepton Mallet.
These markets were those that the farming world turned to and with subsidised planting schemes provided by these companies, they were able to dictate the varieties of apple preferred. Orchards still had a part to play in the farm economy up until the introduction of a government incentive to have them removed and returned to grassland for milk production.
The aptly named “Grubbing Grant” saw the destruction of most of these old orchards and with them a loss of old apple varieties,
wildlife habitat and the history of an agricultural economy that spanned a thousand years.
As ever, nothing is forever and the grubbing grant became redundant as the milk quotas took hold, restricting the amount of milk that could be produced. When this happened someone came up with the idea of providing grants to start planting orchards again!
There can be so no such thing as instant orchards. Our modernday apple production relies on intensive bush trees to provide high tonnage. The days of the old orchard have gone, but have they? We need to look further than just the fruit production and we need to look at the added value these old sites provide.
Some of you may well have a Mendip Times walk written by Sue Gearing around the village of Baltonsborough. In that same edition I lamented the decay of orchards in the area. Orchards that were young and productive when I came down to be the Showering’s cider orchard man in 1979, but due to neglect they had become derelict with no market for the fruit.
Suffice to say it broke my heart to see them in such a state and the only memories that remain of many of those orchards are the records, planting plans and apple purchase contract books in my files.
It’s not all doom and gloom however. We need to look to the future for other things these orchards can provide and they are there without too much looking. The wildlife value of these old sites is beyond compare. They are also a place of quiet and solitude where you can relax.
Their value in locking up carbon dioxide, cleaning the air and oxygen generation is well known. The timber production from pruning can provide a source of fuel and bio-char for soil enhancement. The list goes on and will go on the more we think about these things.
The future can be bright, so get involved with your local community orchard, because today’s new planting will be tomorrow’s veterans. Keep your eyes open for more developments in a scheme called “100 Orchards” that aims to save such orchards.
Finally, this month’s photo is of one of those old orchards undergoing restoration work. There is my old Bucher mountain tractor fitted with air compressor and pneumatic pruners. Taken in the days when my orchard contracting stretched from Cornwall, through Devon and Somerset up to Hampshire... the days when I was living the dream!
With LES DAVIES MBE
If you grow it –don’t be shy –show it
CHELSEA Flower Show has come and gone for another year and is well recognised as the most prestigious flower show in the world. Hampton Court Flower Show in early July is considered the largest annual flower show in the world, so the UK is steeped in flower show tradition. The exhibits and displays at both are generally done by professionals, but local shows in towns and villages rely on enthusiastic amateurs to exhibit their garden produce and as such are just as important.
We are lucky in this area to still have several shows, e.g. Clutton (9th August), Chew Stoke (6th September), Winford (6th September), and my own village of Stanton Drew (30th August). Some Women’s Institute groups and garden clubs also run their own shows for members.
Many smaller shows are struggling due to the ageing population of those who run them and it is vital that the younger generation get involved to ensure their future. It is equally important to encourage children to participate.
I was brought up making miniature gardens in a seed tray and vegetable creatures for my village show in Hertfordshire, while my mother and father exhibited their roses and anything that looked vaguely suitable from the rest of the garden.
First, read the schedule of classes very carefully and consider which ones you may be able to enter. Do carrots and rhubarb have to be trimmed? How are they to be displayed on a plate, a box or perhaps a basket?
If a class asks for a specific number of flowers or apples, then make sure you have that number. The first thing a judge does is check that the number is correct. As a judge I like to be lenient, and if there are six sweet peas instead of five then I will remove one.
I have been known to eat surplus raspberries or pea pods, rather than eliminate an entry as being NAS (Not According to Schedule).
When selecting your produce look for uniformity between the flowers, fruit, or vegetables e.g. all the potatoes are roughly the same size. Do not be tempted to over scrub or peel vegetables e.g. potatoes and onions.
Entries should be free of damage from insect attack, and blemishes or bruises. Removing the odd outer damaged petal is perfectly acceptable if it does not show.
It was the taking part that was important to make the show look good for visitors. There is something about the sight and smell of a marquee on grass, filled with flowers, fruit, vegetables, floral art, art and crafts, photography and of course the children’s entries.
In Stanton Drew we are involving the primary school children to encourage the younger generation and this year are embarking on a new project to foster children’s involvement, by creating the posts of Junior Judges.
I have given the children a talk about the background of our flower show and what is involved. We are asking for volunteers from the top class to join each of the judges in the various sections of the show. The youngsters will be clearly identified by a rosette and will help the judges on show day.
The judges will explain what they are looking for in the exhibits in each class. The lucky one helping the cookery judge may even get to do a bit of tasting!! The Junior Judges will also be involved in voting for the Best Exhibit in the Show.
For the children’s classes it is often the parents, or indeed grandparents, who need to encourage the children to enter. There are so many other distractions these days. Adults can set an example by getting involved and entering classes.
So, what are the judges looking for? I can only speak for the horticultural classes of flowers fruit and vegetables, but a few tips may help you select that winning entry.
Tomatoes should always be exhibited with the calyx still attached. This gives us a good guide as to how fresh the produce is, so it is no good nipping down to the supermarket if you are a bit short! Likewise, the judges usually snap runner beans in half to assess their freshness.
Biggest is not always best. I well remember downgrading an exhibit of huge soft onions in favour of smaller firm ones. If entering a pot plant check that the diameter of the pot is within the limits specified in the schedule.
All fruits should be exhibited with their stalks intact, except for blueberries, apricots, peaches/nectarines and citrus. So, raspberries, strawberries and loganberries should be picked and exhibited with the stalks attached. Tomatoes and cucumbers are actually fruits but are classed as vegetables.
Flowers may be picked the day before in the cool of the evening and conditioned by standing in water in a cool place, while vegetables, such as beans and tomatoes, are best picked on the morning of show day.
On the day of the show allow yourself plenty of time to gather your exhibits together, transport them safely to the showground. Not an easy task to avoid damage. Ensure you take suitable containers for each exhibit if required. Take care to display your produce to the best advantage to catch the judge’s eye. If there are two potential winners in a class, the best displayed may get the prize.
It is taking part that is so important. Never think your produce is not good enough. A show marquee looks great if it is filled with flowers, fruit, vegetables, art and craft exhibits, photography and of course cookery with children’s exhibits being the star attractions.
If you grow it, show it.
With MARY PAYNE MBE
J U L Y G A R D E N T I P S
• It is time to sow wallflowers, winter flowering pansies, primrose and polyanthus. All are best sown in seed compost in seed trays.
• Cut back long shoots on firethorn (Pyracantha) and briar suckers coming from the roots of roses - remove them flush with the roots to avoid getting more.
• Vigorous shrubs will benefit from having over-long shoots pruned back and this will stop them hiding the attractive berries which should have formed on old growth.
• Vigorous climbers such as clematis, honeysuckle and perennial sweet peas will need tying up again. Support them well and they will repay you well with more blooms.
• Feed rose bushes. Spread a handful or two of fertiliser around the plants and lightly hoe it in. Remove dead flowers and the tip of each shoot to encourage a strong new shoot to grow.
• Ventilate your greenhouse on a regular basis. If it is still too hot inside, keep the doors open too and paint liquid white greenhouse paint on the outside to reflect the sun’s heat.
• Apple and pear trained as cordons or espaliers need summer pruning now. Shorten main stems and laterals when longer than 9″ back to the third leaf and lateral side shoots pruned to leave the basal cluster.
• Gooseberries/red and white currants, reduce new side shoots to 4-5 leaves. Now is the correct time to prune plums and cherries.
W h a t o u r re a d e r s s a y a b o u t u s . . .
I'll take this opportunity to thank you for giving us the Mendip Times every month. Through news and information and wonderful photos it does so much to foster community both in the individual towns and villages and helps us all to appreciate the riches of the Mendips: the people and the land. Stewart Castle Mendip Times –The local monthly magazine
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NGS GARDENS OF THE MONTH –JULY
Stowey gardens
THESEgardens continue to attract visitors from near and far and offer a broad spectrum of interest, styles and developments each year. The visitor's senses are aroused by the sights, scents and wide diversity of the gardens in this tiny, ancient village, all within a few minutes’ walk of the car park at Dormers. Teas and plant sales in aid of Stowey Church.
Address: Stowey, Bishop Sutton, Bristol BS39 5TL.
Opening date and time: Sunday July 20th, 2-6pm. Combined admission £7, children free.
Dormers
This 1½ acre plantsman's garden has been created over 25 yrs and continues to evolve, with roses, exotic garden, large informal pond attracting wildlife, orchard, gravel garden with formal pond, alpine bank, buddleias and much more.
NORTON GREEN GARDEN CENTRE WELLS ROAD, CHILCOMPTON, RADSTOCK BA3 4RR Telephone: 01761 232137 Open Mon–Sat 9am to 4pm • Closed Sundays
Contact: Mr and Mrs G. Nichol
Stowey Mead
A garden with history which the visitor enters via a lime/horse chestnut avenue interspersed with yew topiary. Hydrangeas and rhododendrons fill shaded areas leading to a large vegetable garden.
Stunning views to the west over the ha-ha.
Contact: Victor Pritchard
Manor Farm
A lovely, well established garden with sweeping views over the adjoining valley. Set within a 4 acre plot the garden features an abundant collection of mature trees and shrubs, extensive lawns, a fruit and vegetable plot and a couple of ponds.
Contact: Richard Baines and Alison Fawcett.
Other Gardens Open for the NGS
To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Garden Visitors Handbook, or the Somerset County Leaflet, available from local Garden Centres, or go to: https://ngs.org.uk/
Local company is a Chelsea winner
SHEPTONMallet based Protek says it is proud to have contributed to this year’s RHS Chelsea success, with the Bees for Development Balcony Garden winning the Buzzing People’s Choice Award and receiving a prestigious Silver Gilt Medal.
Its vibrant, story-led design was brought to life with a bespoke palette of Protek paints. Created in collaboration with international charity, Bees for Development, the balcony garden showcases how even the smallest spaces can support biodiversity, pollinators and global communities.
It’s a garden with heart – inspired by the charity’s work supporting beekeepers in Africa – and a garden with soul, thanks to a palette of richly considered colour designed to uplift and inspire.
Protek’s Royal Exterior range was the natural choice for the garden – not only for its rich, expressive colour but for its considerate formulation, which is loved by beekeepers across the UK.
From hand-crafted planters made from upcycled honey barrels to a bark hive nestled in a fallen oak trunk, every element was designed with intention – and the colour palette brought it all to life.
As a Somerset-based, independent manufacturer, Protek has long believed that protective paints can also be deeply expressive
– and deeply considerate. All Protek products are designed to stand up to the British weather while treading lightly on the natural world.
Becky Rackstraw, co-director of Protek, said: “It’s been an honour to collaborate with Bees for Development on such a meaningful garden – and to see it recognised with the People’s Choice award and a Silver Gilt at Chelsea is the icing on the cake.
“This garden speaks to everything we care about at Protek: colour, creativity, and conscious craftsmanship.”
If you weren’t lucky enough to see the balcony garden at Chelsea, you can visit Protek’s very own show garden at RHS Hampton Court from July 1st-6th, designed by Matt Leigh of ITV’s Love Your Garden – where inspired colour and planet-kind protection will come together once again.
(Photo
Litton Village Fete
Time for Pimms, Julie Howlett (left) and Paula Sweetman
Giant table skittles
The village’s oldest resident, Joyce Buxton, aged 95, with her family
The plant stall was popular
Henry Wetherall with his homemade brownies
Guess the name of the teddy (l to r) Matlida, Eliza and Farrah
Bar duty Will and Rachel Pratt (left) and Richard Gennery
Collett Day celebrations
A BIG crowd enjoyed a day-long feast of entertainment at the annual Collett Park Day in Shepton Mallet.
The annual community-based event celebrates the donation of parkland to the town by John Collett in 1906.
Sculptor Fiona Campbell leads a craft workshop
Shepton Mallet-based Cygnet Majorettes in the main arena
Chasing bubbles created by the Bubble Fairy and the Bubbleman
Trying to win a prize on the games stall run by Mendip Mutiple Sclerosis Society
John Graham, singer with the Shepton Mallet Big Band which played on the bandstand
Crews from Shepton Mallet fire station staged demonstrations
Dig for Victory
The two-day event at the North Somerset showground at Wraxall raised money for the Royal Marines Charity and Great
Matthew Palmer who is a real life lance corporal in the Lifeguards
Sally Gulliford from Backwell with grandson Freddie
Matt and Lucy Starr from Draycott with their 1943 Jeep
Land army girls Rachel Parsons (right) and daughter Erin from Brockley Combe
Western Air Ambulance
Spam for lunch
There were dozens of old vehicles of all sorts
Tractor drivers blow away the cobwebs
DOZENS of owners of vintage tractors took to the villages around Frome – and the town itself – to take part in the second annual Old Farts Tractor Club fundraising rally.
The vehicles, which included some 4x4s, used the Tucker’s Grave Inn at Faulkland as their meeting and finish point, raising money for the British Heart Foundation and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.
Leading the way was organiser Keith Selway
A wave for wellwishers as the run leaves the inn
Brian Watts, whose family owns and runs Tucker’s
You don’t have to be old to enjoy the fun –Cooper on the mini tractor
And we’re off!
Discover Banwell’s history
THERE’S a chance to discover Banwell's ancient past at a special exhibition and memorial unveiling on Saturday, July 19th at Banwell Youth & Community Centre.
It will celebrate the archaeological discoveries made in the area, which is renowned for its famous Bone Cave.
A new memorial stone will be unveiled in the village cemetery marking the final resting place of ancient Romano British remains uncovered in 2012.
An archaeological exhibition, 11am - 3pm, will have a fascinating display of other artefacts discovered during the 2012 Banwell excavation by Border Archaeology, showcased thanks to the South West Heritage Trust.
Banwell Archaeological Society’s display will have a stunning photographic exhibition of past excavations and a book stall featuring archaeology and history titles.
Details: www.banwellsocietyofarchaeology.co.uk
Society’s 50th anniversary
WHITCHURCHLocal History Society’s 50th anniversary exhibition in the United Reformed Church was a great success with almost 200 visitors viewing their wide range of exhibits and chatting with committee members about their own memories.
Organisers say some people encountered friends from years ago and little discussion groups were seen enjoying themselves accompanied by tea or coffee and the wonderful range of cakes provided by the church’s ladies.
THE historic church of St James in Cameley hosted a storytelling event which raised £700 towards the restoration of its medieval wall paintings.
About 35 people supported it, almost filling the tiny church, which is trying to raise £35,000 for conservation work.
The next fundraising event will be a choral evensong at 6.30pm on July 27th with Farmborough Choir. Save our paintings!
They said it was “a truly memorable community afternoon” and the last of their public events until talks resume in September.
In the meantime, they would be delighted to hear from anyone who is prepared to share pictures or artefacts from the local area’s history or who can spend time with one of their committee members as they prepare to collate the next volume of “Memories” for publication.
Details: Secretary, Geoff Gardiner, 01275 830869 or geoff@thegardiners.org.uk
Saving churches
THEFriends of Pensford Tower welcomed Philippa Wood, the area’s new local community officer for the Churches Conservation Trust, to a fundraising tea party in Pensford’s Old Schoolroom.
The CCT, which is the national charity saving historic churches at risk, has saved over 350 buildings which attract almost two million visitors a year.
Philippa said: “Without our care and your support, the buildings we look after might have disappeared completely.”
The committee
Philippa Wood (right) with Garry and Val Atterton, who were leading the tower tours
The rise of diagnosis
By DrPHIL HAMMOND
THEdiagnosis of just about everything is on the rise. Asthma, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, multiple cancers, multiple genetic diseases, dementia, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, diabetes, osteoporosis, kidney disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, pulmonary emboli, aortic aneurysms, chronic Lyme disease, sexually transmitted infections, sexual dysfunction, caffeine-use disorder and a compulsion to vote for Reform.
Are we getting sicker as we live longer? Or are we over-diagnosing for little benefit and considerable harm as those who are seriously ill are pushed to the back of the treatment queue by the less ill? Or is a bit more complicated than that?
Every medical intervention has always had the capacity to cause harm as well as benefit, including the act of diagnosis itself.
When you go in search of a label to help explain why you are the way you are – mentally and physically – it’s hard to know if it will help. And sometimes a label is dumped on you by a doctor when you don’t want it.
When I trained as a GP, the practice library housed a fabulous book written in 1954 by Dr Stephen Taylor, entitled Good General Practice, which included gems such as: “Naturally patients set great store on their hearts. A hint from the doctor that all is not well in the heart department will start a chain of worry which cannot be dispelled by any number of later reassurances . . . the anxious possessor must be reassured that the heart is ‘excellent for his age’ or ‘good for another twenty years’; the result of such reassurance is a new lease of life.”
And my personal favourite: “If you can possibly avoid it, do not tell any patients they have high blood pressure. It is tantamount to telling them they are on the verge of having a stroke. A high blood pressure causes remarkably few symptoms until the patient knows he has it. Thereafter there is no end of symptoms. Once you know it is high, there is little point in taking repeated readings. It only concentrates the patient’s attention to it.”
Fast forward to now and your smart watch can measure your blood pressure and pulse continuously, with varying degrees of accuracy. But is it making you healthier and less anxious?
This is an old debate, and one I wrote about in 2002, when doctors were financially incentivised by targets to do as much diagnosing as we could. As Peter Winocour, a consultant NHS diabetologist observed 23 years ago in the British Medical Journal:
“Targets are often impractical and involve taking too many drugs . . . 10% of type 2 diabetics could require two or three hypoglycaemic agents (ultimately including insulin), at least three antihypertensive agents, two hypolipidaemic agents, and aspirin.
“A high proportion will also require treatment for coexistent cardiovascular disease and coincidental unrelated chronic disease. It is difficult to see how we can realistically expect patients to comply for
long with such a draconian regimen requiring so many separate drugs.”
More diagnosing often means more drugs, and the more drugs you take the more likely you are to fall over in the potting shed and break your hip.
The debate has been reignited recently in an excellent book by Neurologist Suzanne O’Sullivan called The Age of Diagnosis O’Sullivan argues “overdiagnosis occurs when a medical problem is detected at a stage when medical treatment is not really required”.
She distinguishes it from overmedicalisation, which occurs “when ordinary human differences, behaviour and life stages are given medical labels, turning them into the business of doctors. Like telling immature or socially anxious children that they have a neurodevelopmental brain disorder. Or turning non-diseases into diseases with an expectation that they are problems that medicine should cure, as we are seeing with ageing, poor sleep, sex drive difficulties, menopause and unhappiness”.
Sullivan is wise and compassionate and covers both sides of the argument citing patients whose lives have been improved by having a label to affirm that they are not making their symptoms up, even when there are no effective treatments. Belonging to a tribe is enough.
And an increasing number of people make their diagnosis earn a living, with TikTok accounts, books and even stage shows for those well enough to perform. Ultimately, it’s down to the individual to decide whether their diagnostic label has done more harm than good, but in an age of AI guided self-diagnosis, you rarely hear the downside and Sullivan explains it eloquently:
“It could be that borderline medical problems are becoming ironclad diagnoses and that normal differences are being pathologised. These statistics could indicate that ordinary life experiences, bodily imperfections, sadness and social anxiety are being subsumed into the category of medical disorder. In other words: we are not getting sicker – we are attributing more to sickness.”
Nothing can stem the twin tides of diagnosis and over-diagnosis, particularly as technology advances. Pay for a full body MRI scan and you may – rarely – pick up something that benefits from a lifesaving intervention. But far more likely you will pick up the odd shadow, cyst, spot, calcification and blip.
These are of doubtful significance but you can never be completely sure and many patients are left in limbo with no treatment offered to assuage the doubt that they might have cancer. The best you can do is keep repeating the scans, which does little more than elevate the stress and reduce your bank balance or increase the NHS queue.
In an age of individualism coupled with the desire to belong to a tribe and doctors ordering too many tests for fear of being sued if we miss something, a free to access health service is feeling the strain. Nothing can stop people demanding help for their new diagnoses and the rise in so many diseases makes waiting times very hard to reduce.
Only you can judge if your medical labels, investigations and treatments have made your life better or worse. And given the state of the NHS, you may have to wait a long time for the answers . . .
Dr Phil’s columns on the Trial of Lucy Letby are free to access at https://www.private-eye.co.uk/special-reports/lucy-letby
THEWedmore & Axbridge Community Health Fund charity is looking for trustees. It was formed 37 years ago and has evolved to support many different projects, involving both groups and individuals, as well as providing equipment at Axbridge and Wedmore surgeries.
It says: “Be part of a dynamic team committed to improving mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing in Wedmore and Axbridge and the surrounding area. You could use your skills and experience to create real, lasting change in the lives of those who need it most.”
BANWELL WI had a demonstration of CPR from their president, Vivienne Bailey, when members used cushions to practice with rhythmic music. It was followed by gin tasting!
COURT HOUSE
Ask Dr. Hannah
New president
THEInner Wheel Club of Shepton Mallet, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary, held its AGM and handover meeting at the Shrubbery Hotel in Shepton Mallet .
Outgoing president Janet Thornborough handed over the chain of office to incoming president Liz Weelen.
Community’s new minibus
CHURCHILLand Langford Minibus Society, which has been operating for more than 50 years, has celebrated delivery of a new 12-seater minibus.
The ribbon was cut by oldest passenger, Tom Hall, aged 99, a former aviation worker who lives in Sandford, with society chairman, Trevor Smallwood.
The old minibus did 400 trips last year for shopping and days out, plus trips for several village organisations. The minibus also ferries passengers to weekly lunches held at the Methodist Church centre.
The society said the new bus could not have been purchased without the help of many organisations, including the National Lottery, Bernard Sunley
Probus in prison!
CHEW Lake Men's Probus Club, with partners, enjoyed a visit to Shepton Mallet Prison, one of a number of visits and events planned by the club this year.
The club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Chew Kitchen in Chew Stoke and welcomes new members.
Details: President, Bob Denning 07546599109 robertdenning224@btinternet.com
Foundation, Thatchers Foundation, Freight International Limited, Bristol Airport, The Village Fund, Charles Graham Stones Relief in Need Charity and many other smaller donations.
The society also gets help every year from all the local parish councils which
they serve. Trevor Smallwood said: “We are so grateful for all of this support, but we always need more volunteer drivers.”
The new minibus is a Citroen Relay with 12 seats and a wheelchair lift together with ample room for the various walking aids which are often required.
Tom Hall (left) and Trevor Smallwood
Time for lunch
Lunch is served
FORTNIGHTLYploughman’s lunches have now replaced soup lunches at Pensford’s Old Schoolroom and are attracting a lot of people.
Some of the organisers are pictured (l to r) Catherine Miller, Pam King, Eilish McNickle and Jenny Gully.
Future lunches are on Wednesdays July 9th and 23rd, August 6th and 20th and September 3rd and 17th.
Details: Jane Garner 07780 677253 or Eilish McNickle 07907 910529
Lions’ donations
WELLSLions have raised enough money to enable donations of £1,000 to Marie Curie and £200 to The Lawrence Centre in Wells.
They also helped marshal prostate cancer screening in Croscombe village hall – there was a great turnout of 200 men on the day.
They are now starting to organise the Wells Moat Boat Race, which is on August bank holiday Monday, August 25th. The registration process has started, with teams of six in both senior and junior races.
A NEWcountywide initiative says it is aiming to make Somerset a beacon of inclusivity and equity for displaced communities.
Led by Community Council for Somerset (CCS) and funded by Somerset Council, the Welcome to All programme brings together a strong partnership of voluntary, community, faith, local council and social enterprise organisations.
Charis Refugees, Frome Town Council, Wells Community Network, Wells City Council and Yeovil Community Church are working collaboratively to deliver a network of six welcoming community hubs across the county.
This will be extended through mobile outreach to reach displaced people in rural and under-served areas.
Val Bishop, CEO of CCS, said: “Together, we’re not only building services, we’re shaping a Somerset that can stand as a national example of how to welcome, support and empower those seeking a new beginning.
“It’s about helping displaced people not only find safety, but find their voice, their purpose, and their place.”
Village award
THEannual Peasedown St John Community Civic Award was presented to Chris Champion who has kept the village tidy for the last 25 years. He has recently retired after long service on the parish council.
The award was made at the village’s Party in the Park by the event’s organisers, local councillors Karen Walker and Gavin Heathcote.
Ukraine appeal
WRINGTON Vale
Rotarian Bob Pready will set off on his fifth journey to Ukraine in early July, transporting a vanload of medical equipment and other vital supplies.
On his four previous trips every vehicle was donated, but this time Bob must buy one. He has sourced a reliable van for £3,500 and already has a portion of the money in hand. To close the gap he has launched a JustGiving appeal.
He’s being supported by the Rotary Club of Yatton. Yatton club president Tony Watkins is pictured presenting a cheque for £1,000 to Wrington Vale president John Alvis, with Rotarians Pauline and Chris Leverett looking on.
Lawrence Centre (l to r) Eve Loring, Mary Ellis, Ann Ray, Steve Abbot, Tracey Sage, Peter Douglas and Maggie Charlesworth
Flying visit
FROME Lions presented a cheque for £26,000 to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, thanks to their very successful charity sporting dinner in February.
Pictured are president, Dan Norris and his wife Jane. along with Lions Frank Collins, Mark Symes, Frank Russell, Mike Geake and Peter Rumming along with helicopter crew.
Wedding memories
ANexhibition of wedding outfits in Stoke St Michael saw a constant stream of visitors and raised around £900 towards the repair of one of the stained glass windows in St Michael's Church.
There were 26 exhibits altogether, dating from 1931 to 2018. Organisers say the exhibitors were very generous in sharing their life stories and photos together with their outfits.
The parish registers dating back to 1643 proved to be very interesting. Visitors were able to relax with tea and coffee and there was a concert in the evening.
One of the organisers, Sarah Stewart, is pictured with her mother's 1951 dress.
Shop wins Prince’s award
BRENTKnoll Community Shop was singled out as “highly commended” for the Prince of Wales Award at the Royal Bath & West Show.
One of four shortlisted candidates from more than 100 entries for this annual award for community ventures, the shop came second to a very worthy winner – a community garden in Bristol.
The shop has recently celebrated its fifth birthday after opening as an “emergency shop” during the first Covid lockdown and since the closure of the village’s shop and Post Office.
It is run and operated entirely by volunteers. Just before Christmas, they moved from a Portakabin to a former toilet block provided by Brent Knoll Parish Council.
The community shop spent more than £66,000 to fit it out as a fully accessible modern shop and has since seen a marked increase in customers, sales, and volunteering applications.
Pictured (l to r) are Robert Drewett, President of the Royal Bath & West Show Society, with Lynn Staynings and Lucy White – the duo responsible for stocking the shop.
New chair
FOLLOWING the AGM of Winscombe District u3a, the chair baton was handed from Trudy May to Dee Stoddard. Trudy has completed her six years as chair and Dee has been a member for seven years.
Annual highlight
CHEDDARValley u3a Day Trippers’ group spent five days in Norfolk, where they enjoyed wonderful weather throughout their stay and on various excursions. This is the highlight of the group’s year and adds to the many day trips they have.
Day Trippers is just one of around 50 groups supported by
WI concert
Cheddar Valley u3a’s 500 plus (and still growing!) membership.
Coffee mornings are held on the third Thursday of each month, 10-11.30am in the Village Hall, Parsons Penn and visitors are welcome to call in to find out more.
BISHOPSutton & Stowey WI raised £350 for Bishop Sutton Primary Schools’s PTA with a concert featuring the Twerzels. A similar event last October raised £300 for Mutts with Friends dog rescue.
President, Jenny Harris, said: “We had a delicious Ploughman’s supper half time and during the second half it became quite lively with dancing.”
The back stage crew, pictured (l to r) Liz McDowall, Clair Brooks and Wendy Bird, with Jacob Davies.
Indoor sale
THE threat of thunderstorms drove the annual pavement sale for St Mary’s Church in West Harptree indoors, but it was still successful.
One of the organisers, Elaine Avery, said: “The churchwardens would like to thank everyone who contributed in any way to the success of the sale.
“Despite having to move indoors because of the rain, those who braved the elements were generous in their support and the sale raised £418 for St Mary's.”
Leslie Zurburg and Barry Rider on the preserves stall
Bronwyn O’Haire (left) and Jo Brown on the plant tables Dudley King on the book stall
Crowdfunder milestone for Wells skatepark project
The Mayor of Wells, Louis Agabani, who has named the project as one of the beneficiaries of his year in office, with trustees and keen skateboarders
WELLS Skatepark Project is celebrating an important early milestone in its crowdfunder, with more than £7,000 raised already and more than 60 supporters backing the community campaign to build a new facility.
Project organisers say now is the opportunity for the wider community and local businesses to get behind the vision.
Since launching its Crowdfunder campaign just a few weeks ago, the volunteer-led project has seen strong early backing from individuals, families and local businesses.
Beverley Smith, one of the skatepark trustees, said: “We’re thrilled by the response so far — the support has been generous and heartfelt.
“We want to build up capital and a solid base of supporters to show potential major funders that this is something the community really wants.”
To encourage business support, the project has launched the "Make Your Mark on the Park" sponsorship initiative, offering permanent recognition on the main skate ramp for contributions starting from £250.
For details, visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/skatewells
Strawberry Line walk
YEO Valley Lions had 70 walkers for their Strawberry Lion Walk 2025 along the Strawberry Line, supporting North Somerset People First, who fielded a strong team.
It also included old friends like Yatton WI, Yatton Girlguiding and 1st Yatton Brownies, with first timers Cleeve Tennis Club and Yatton Rugby Club.
Couple honoured for their voluntary work
COMMUNITY-minded couple David and Catherine Atkins have been awarded the Freedom of Street by the village’s parish council.
The pair have been active in the community for decades, running the annual Merriman Park Fun Day and being heavily involved in the Merriman Park Community Group and the Street Twinning Association. Their contribution was described in the official citation as “action, compassion, and a life of service that has inspired so many”.
David and Catherine were amongst the guests at the council’s annual awards and investiture ceremony, attended by Michael Moturn, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Somerset.
The Citizen of the Year 2025 award was presented to Henry Clamp, a cherished volunteer at the Crispin Community Centre. The year’s Young Citizens of the Year award went to sisters Winnie and Dolly Carmichael.
A RECENT meeting of the Strawberry Line WI proved to be a bit of a hoot. Alan Wells from Pitcombe Rock Falconry gave a fascinating display of birds of prey. Owl prowl
Details: www.prfalconry.co.uk
Pictured (l to r): Lieutenant Colonel Michael Motum, Freedom of Street award recipients David and Catherine Atkins; Chair of Street Parish Council, Cllr Bryan Knickerbocker; Youth Cadet Eva Dowden; Vice Chair of Street Parish Council, Cllr Anna Thomson
(Photo courtesy of Will Punter)
Vineyard visit
A GROUPof Sandford WI members enjoyed a visit to Sutton Ridge Vineyard in the Yeo Valley, overlooking Blagdon Lake. They were met by Hannah and Luke Ford who have created this familyowned vineyard in North Somerset and enjoyed wine tasting and lunch.
Dementia cafés
CHEDDAR Vale Lions Club has now supported three Memory Cafes and will be holding them on a monthly basis until the end of the year.
The next is on June 30th at the Catholic church hall in Tweentown. They hope to continue the cafes next year.
A FRAMEDtextile artwork of Axbridge’s heritage trail has gone on permanent display in St John the Baptist Church in the town.
It’s been described as “awesome, intricate and beautiful” by those who have seen it up close, depicting the town’s historic and ancient buildings.
In a packed reception to celebrate the unveiling of the wall hanging, Judith Strange opened the ceremony by welcoming residents saying the project had been the “brainchild” of Margeret Cowie.
Margaret thanked everyone who had helped to make the project a success. She said: “It’s been two and a half years in the making, an important part of my life and those of my fellow stitchers who have become a close group of friends as well.”
The women behind the project were Margaret Cowie, Tara Lifton, Stephanie Teychenne Gall, Lynn Howes, Pam Ryan, Judith Strange, Barbara Wells, Sue Rushworth, Sally Batt, Tricia Clark and Wendy Kirk.
The project came off the back of the heritage trail in the town which opened in 2016 – an initiative driven by Barbara Wells and Margaret Cowie, featuring blue plaques on the featured buildings with QR codes to unlock their history via
a mobile phone.
Margaret said: “We selected different images of the buildings using a variety of stitching techniques and felt the church as a Grade 1 listed building which is not part of the trail was the most appropriate location for the hanging.”
Some of the images include a blue bottle for the Old Drug Store, a lion motif for Lion House, a policeman’s helmet for Peeler’s Court, and the town’s symbol of the Lamb and Flag denoting the town hall.
Details: https://www.axbridgeheritagetrails.com/
“You
get what you pay for” still holds true
RISINGcosts affect every single one of us and it seems hardly a day goes by without a new bill of one kind or another landing on the door mat. So, it’s not surprising that people are being very careful when it comes to buying goods and services.
Some Estate Agents have responded to that situation by reducing their charges in an effort to persuade vendors to place their properties with them, despite facing a range of rising costs themselves. I don’t know how they can afford to do that and keep their business running properly. Maybe they are saving money by cutting corners? That’s something we would never dream of doing, because we unapologetically offer a top of the range, five star service based on our three key words of Dedication, Imagination and Delivery.
It goes without saying that we give you the best advice on pricing, how to present
your property, photographing it to show it to its best, delivering imaginative marketing and bespoke viewings by people who have a comprehensive knowledge of the locality and the ability to explain the lifestyle purchasers will be able to enjoy.
But we regularly talk about going the extra mile, and what we mean by that is the provision of an unrivalled after sales service.
When we have completed your sale we won’t just shake hands and wish you well. To us, selling your property is only the beginning of the story. That’s the moment we switch our focus to helping you navigate to your next purchase and where our “Dedication” really comes into its own.
Buying and selling properties can be a stressful and at times a complex process and it often relies on precarious chains being kept intact. So, when you instruct
us to sell your property, we make a pledge to stay with you all the way until you move into your next home. That means we will talk to solicitors, surveyors, agents and mortgage providers on your behalf.
You will have the benefit of my team’s knowledge and experience of how the system works and we will use that expertise to ensure all parties are working in your best interests, occasionally nudging someone along if needs be. Above all, we’ll make sure you are kept fully informed of progress so that you can relax, sure in the knowledge that things are moving in the right direction.
That’s what top class service includes, so before you entrust your most valuable asset to an agent only on the basis of what their service will cost, think extremely carefully, because, as my Granny used to say: “You get what you pay for.”
JOANNA TILEY
SUMMER AUCTION
Tuesday 22nd July 19:00pm at Mendip Spring Golf Club, Honeyhall Lane, Congresbury, BS49 5JT
Summer auction promises “secret treasures”
TREASUREhunters who find their way to these four auction lots that are tucked away in very private locations may be lucky if they go to auctioneer Richard Nancekivell’s Summer Auction on Tuesday, July 22nd at Mendip Springs Golf Club, 7pm.
Velvet Bottom, Charterhouse is the first “gem” on Mendip set in its own valley, with woodland, an ex-quarry and meadow pasture totalling 22 acres.
Accessed down an avenue of mature, broadleaf trees, this location is hidden away and has not been on the market for almost 50 years.
Investment land Wedmore Golf Club
Guide PriceAcres
1. Paddock at Winford£25,0002.4 acres
2. Investment land at Wedmore£45,0002.98 acres
3. Velvet Bottom Charterhouse£180,00021.78 acres
4. Development site Fordgate£200,000
DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Development projects Confidentiality Available Including Self Building Plots, Traditional Barns with planning, Pub sites for redevelopment & Strategic Land suitable for promotion for development.
This rare to the market three-acre paddock has not been sold for two generations and has everything any investor might desire, road frontage, tree-lined hedges and scope to be anything from equestrian to a holiday location, subject to planning Seek your treasure here!
Fordgate residentail development yard
This site near Bridgwater TA7 8NX is hidden down a small Somerset Chapel lane close to the canel and national cycle way. The development has planning for residential for one or two dwellings in a classic private secret farmyard with trees on the boundary.
Truely a hidden location away from it all.
2.4acre Paddock at Winford
Behind Hanging Grove Farm is again a hidden beauty with high hedges and redundant FYM pits with scope to landscape to your imagination.
Each lot is very remote and may only be seen by those with a keen eye and with the desire to explore –so good luck hunting.
i n p r i n t a n d o n l i n e !
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Some top training tips
IT has been a quiet month competition-wise for me. Insey had a holiday, Robbie was sold to a wonderful home and I bought Eris my home-bred three-year-old home for some education. I have just been off doing some showjumping and for the first time ever broke even with a 1st and 2nd place at Leyland Court picking up £60. It would be a lot easier to just show jump but for some reason I cannot quit the eventing though my bank balance would be a lot better off.
I have just started backing Eris. I love this stage in their lives where you can really spend some time with them introducing them to adult life. It’s something I never rush and I prefer to take my time doing.
Eris seems to be really enjoying learning new things and we are happily long reining round the yard with a bridle and saddle on. We now stand at the mounting block and with the help of my friend Roy Delfino-Orme, I have lent over her and taken a few
Demo delivers
steps forward.
I want to get the long lining really good before taking the next steps of sitting on her. Long lining for me is building an extra layer of communication, teaching them about turning and stopping and getting them really confident in going to new places without any pressure of a rider.
I hope to take Eris to Hartpury in July for the British Breeding Futurity where they are assessed for quality and conformation. I will find out how she is rated against other three-year-olds.
I ATTENDEDa Ben Atkinson demo at The Grange. Ben is one of the world’s foremost trainers of horses in liberty. He is a master of working horses in complete freedom and through his demo showed how he builds these skills.
I am always fascinated by another way and building horsemanship skills through positive reinforcement. I went with Sarah Thorne, who is a BE trainer and BHSI as many of these skills in training can be transferable to training horses under saddle. I found the evening really interesting and jotted down some notes below.
Top tips from Ben Atkinson
• Ben says you will develop as a horse person and a trainer. You are dealing with the information which you have at the time so thoughts and skills will develop and thus you will change the way you do things.
• Horses communicate through their mouths. They don’t have hands, so they touch and communicate through their mouths. If they are anxious, they will often grab things to pop in their mouths and chew on.
• How you feel dictates how you work your horse that day. If you are having a bad day or have things on your mind, then do something which is easy like hacking. If you are having a good day, then that is the day to try something new in training. It just
means if it does not quite go to plan you will be in a better place to keep trying and working on it rather than giving up.
• Always assess your environment before you start training, it will help you plan to help in the best way possible.
• If you have a sharp or spooky horse don’t just keep trotting round the outside of the arena. Give your horse something to think about – transitions, change of direction, lateral movement. Too many people just keep hoping things will get better but don’t redirect their horses’ thoughts, so they are focused on the rider. The same with a horse who has separation anxiety. Redirect their thoughts so the horse is more present. Try to be more interesting than what is
occupying their mind.
• When training horses you need to be neutral. Nothing is good or bad. Be the thermostat and not the thermometer.
• When you are working with a horse on the ground – look for the inside ear flick, This signals that the horse is present mentally and physically.
• Ben uses clicker training to reward his horses. Click then treat. Ben rewards for horses trying, not just when they achieve the outcome. When you reward the horse trying you get a horse who is happier in their work and will try harder for you to give you the right answer. The clicker gives the horse instant feedback that they are on the right lines.
Lucy Counsell is a lifelong equestrian with a passion for eventing. She set up the riding club, Equestrian Training South West, served on Area 12 Riding Club committee and has her UKCC2 qualification to coach riding
With LUCY COUNSELL
In action at Leyland Court
Talented young riders
FOUR local junior riders have been excelling themselves in the Pony Club sport of Tetrathlon, in which competitors pistol shoot, run, swim and ride cross country.
During May, two prestigious tetrathlon competitions took place – the Royal Windsor Horse Show and the Junior Home International at Moreton Morrell. Ferris Lovell (15), from Tarnock, was part of the winning Southwest Regional Team at Royal Windsor Horse Show and got the call up to represent England at Moreton Morrell, taking home a team 2nd.
The girls’ section at Moreton Morrell was highly competitive with 100 competitors including a large contingent from Ireland. Izzy Powell (15) and Daisy Read (14) from Wylye Valley Pony Club and Megan Tasker (15) from Mendip Farmers Pony Club all had great competitions as part of the Southern England team.
Advice for new riders
WHETHERyou are a beginner or an experienced rider it can be difficult to find the right yard. If you are not experienced with horses, even some of the questions you are asked when filling in a registration form can be confusing; so let’s bust some jargon and help you find a suitable place to go.
l Complete beginner means: I have never sat on a horse before and I may need to be led or work on a lunge line and I will need instruction on what to do from a qualified coach.
l A beginner: I have ridden off lead rein and can walk, trot and stop without assistance.
l A novice: I have regularly ridden without anyone leading me and I can walk, trot and canter (I might also have trotted over some very low poles or jumps)
l Intermediate: I can walk, trot, canter and jump, I can ride in the open and on the road
l Advanced: I can walk, trot, canter and jump and I can improve a horse's way of working with my riding skills
Now how to find a good stables. The easiest way is to check out the British Horse Society and the Association of British Riding Schools websites. If you cannot find a BHS or ABRS stables in the area you are visiting, then the bare minimum you need to check is the local authority licence.
All stables offering horses for riding must have a licence to hire horses, they must display the licence number on their websites and you should be able to see a copy of this displayed in the reception area together with their insurance policy.
PAT LAWRENCE
Pony club party
POLDENHills Pony Club is celebrating 50 years of the local branch and is inviting anyone who has been a member to a party on July 29th at King Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre. The branch was formed in 1975 and has nearly 100 members, aged from four to 24.
| Tuesdays–Saturdays
H 10am-12.30pm & 1-3.30pm
H All ages from 5-16yrs | All abilities
H Half day £52 | full day £104
H Booking essential
Call or email us for more details
Izzy at the water jump
Rock, rhythm and race –cycling up Burrington Combe
THEREare climbs that test your legs and then there are climbs that feed your soul. Burrington Combe does both – steadily, insistently, and with surprising charm. Winding its way up the northern edge of the Mendip Hills, this 4km ascent is less about savage gradients and more about rhythm, resolve and the raw beauty of limestone cliffs and open moorland.
This isn’t a wall of pain like Draycott Steep, nor is it a casual roll in the countryside. Burrington Combe occupies that rare, compelling middle ground – a steady, scenic climb with teeth.
The journey begins where the B3134 forks south off the A368, midway between the villages of Churchill and Blagdon. At first, you might question whether you're even climbing.
The road rises so gently from the meadowlands of Langford Green that it's almost a trick of the land. But don’t be lulled –what starts as a false flat soon gathers intent.
As you pass the old quarry workings and the first cattle grid, Burrington Combe reveals itself. Towering limestone crags close in, like sentinels guarding the route ahead.
To your right, a weathered plaque marks the spot where the Rev Augustus Toplady is said to have found shelter during a thunderstorm in 1775. Legend has it that this moment inspired the hymn “Rock of Ages”.
It’s an evocative backdrop for a ride that tests endurance more than explosiveness. For the most part, the gradient holds a polite line around 5 to 6 per cent. It’s just enough to feel it in your legs, but not so severe that you can’t find a rhythm.
Still, this is no metronome climb – every so often, the road rears up in short, sharper pitches, reaching 8, 9, even 10 per cent. These sections come like commas in a long sentence: They make you pause, breathe a little harder, maybe shift down a gear or two.
At just over halfway up the climb lies one of Burrington Combe’s quirkiest features – Cowbell Corner. During the annual Bristol South Cycling Club hill climb, this spot comes alive. Spectators line the verge, armed with pots, pans, horns and, of course, cowbells, turning this tranquil gorge into a raucous tunnel of noise and encouragement.
It’s Somerset’s own version of an Alpine Tour de France stage. The sound echoes off the cliffs, pushing riders through one of the steeper pitches of the climb.
But Burrington is generous, in its own way. After each burst of intensity, there is a return to that steady, manageable gradient. You’re never quite out of breath for long, nor are you ever truly
coasting. It’s this constant undulation – a kind of natural tempo – that makes the climb so addictive.
Seasoned riders know that it rewards pacing, patience and awareness. Attack too early and the final section will punish you.
Because just when you think it’s over, the climb deals its final hand. After passing a cattle grid, the limestone gorge gives way to open moorland and farmland. Ahead is the last ramp, before the top, which pitches up suddenly to around 15%.
It’s not long, maybe 200 metres, but it bites. After several kilometres of steady effort, it demands one last, leg-burning push.
And then, quite suddenly, you’re there. A final false flat levels out and leads you to a quiet crossroads near Swymmer’s Farm. From here, the views stretch back down the Combe and across to Blagdon Lake in one direction, and up towards the high ground of Black Down in the other.
It’s a simple finish – no summit sign, no café, no dramatic overlook – but there’s satisfaction in the subtlety. You’ve climbed over 200 metres in elevation not with a single brutal ramp, but through a persistent, character-building grind. You’ve also ridden through geological history, local legend, and perhaps a little of your own physical limit.
It’s no surprise Burrington Combe has become a mainstay in local sportives and a favourite training ground for Mendip cyclists. It offers everything: Good road surface, stunning scenery, manageable gradients – and a story to tell.
Whether you’re a racer chasing a Strava segment, a leisure rider out to enjoy the fresh air, or a first-timer just trying to get to the top without walking, this climb delivers.
So next time you're looking for a challenge that rewards as much as it tests, head to Burrington Combe – your legs and your soul will thank you.
THE annual Wells Festival of Running once again attracted competitors of all ages and abilities in a day-long celebration of the sport.
Team Bath AC runner Lester James led from the start in the fiercely contested 10km race, crossing the line in first place in a time of 00:32:46. Christian Green, from organisers Wells City Harriers, finished fourth, in 00:34:06. Phoebe Aspinall, also from the harriers, was the first female home, in a time of 00;39:53.
The day also saw 1.2km and 5km runs as wells as children’s race on the Cathedral Geen in the afternoon.
The start of the 5km race
Members of the newly-formed Wells RFC women’s touch rugby side
Lester James (far left) at the start of the 10km race
Arabella Matthews manages a smile at the start of the 5km race
Freddie Conway (left) and Stellan Corp sprint for the line
Somer Valley AC took part in a large number
Young runners complete the course
Chew Valley 10k
Bishop Sutton pre-school with refreshments
The start
Somer Valley
Race winner Matthew Battensby (Bristol and West) 33.59
Race starters Denise Mellersh, Leanne Derrick and Dan Wooler
Trail gets bigger and better
NEARLY200 runners enjoyed the wonderful Mendip scenery to run the annual Butcombe Trail Ultramarathon races over 50miles or, new this year, 50km, organised by Bristol-based trail running club Town and Country Harriers.
The surplus from the races totalling £3,000 was donated to the Mendip Hills Fund. Its manager, Jim Hardcastle, said: “Town and Country Harriers’ donations make a real difference to conservation and community projects across the Mendip Hills.
“Recently the fund helped scout groups,
art projects and opportunities for isolated people to help with conservation, helping to create strong community networks.”
The first male and female runners in the 50km race were Robert Eaton of Team Bath AC in 4 hours 21 minutes and Fiona Slevin-Brown of Marlborough Running Club in 5 hours 20 minutes, and in the 50mile race were Tim Martin in 7 hours 52 minutes and Kate Perry of AVS Police in 10 hours 2 minutes.
Race Director, Dave Bignell said: “We were all delighted to see a record number of entries, including a higher proportion of
Details: www.butcombetrailultra.com
Tennis club’s anniversary
PENSFORDTennis Club has celebrated its 30th anniversary with an open day at Pensford playing fields and club.
A ribbon was cut by the club’s president, Alan Burbridge, one of the club’s founder members, followed by glasses of celebratory fizz.
Club chair, Sue Grimes, said: “It was a huge success and attended by members and residents from the village and surrounding community.
“Attendees were given free tennis coaching by our two LTA coaches and were able to try their hand at pickleball.”
Pensford is an LTA affiliated club serving the community in the Chew Valley and the surrounding villages of Publow, Woollard, Chelwood, Stanton Drew, Stanton Wick, Marksbury, Compton Dando and Whitchurch.
Sue Gimes said: “Whether you’ve never played before, you play tennis socially or play competitively, you’ll get a warm
female runners, and so many successfully completing the races even though it was a first ultramarathon for many.”
Organisers, runners and supporters praised Mendip Activity Centre in Churchill for hosting the race HQ, Wrington Vale Osteopaths for providing runners with well-deserved massages and Butcombe Brewery for providing finishers’ goody-bags and age group prizes and having their pop-up bar at Race HQ.
Entries are now open for next year’s race on Saturday, April 25th.
welcome at the club. We are an open and inclusive club which aims to provide social and competitive tennis to all ages.
“There are no steps to the courts, so we are fully accessible to wheelchair users and anyone with mobility challenges.”
Details: http://pensfordtennisclub.co.uk/
Runners on Black Down
Cheque presentation
Hockey awards night
WINSCOMBELadies Hockey Club (WLHC) hosted their annual end of season awards night with a glitzy “Night at the Awards” themed evening.
The club had four teams compete throughout the season in the West Hockey League. There was great hockey played across all teams, but it was topped off with the 3rd XI securing promotion after finishing second in the West Women’s Wessex Division 2 league.
Vice chairman, Kate Dennis, said: “It’s been an incredible season and the evening was a wonderful opportunity to recognise the hard work of our players, coaches, umpires, and supporters.”
With the summer hockey league well under way, the club are already preparing for the 2025/26 season and would welcome new or returning players.
Details: winscombehc@outlook.com
Rugby award
MIDSOMERNorton RFC held their annual dinner and presentation evening. Joe Button (left) the club captain, is pictured presenting the Player of the Year award to Sam Church.
Captain’s return
Marcus Nel
FORMER club captain, Marcus Nel, is rejoining Weston RFC from Clifton, as their first signing ahead of the 2025/26 season, following their sideways move to the Regional 2 Tribute South West league.
The former Zimbabwe international was voted the National League 2 West Player of the Season. He is a lecturer in sport and exercise psychology at the University of the West of England.
Details: www.westonrugby.co.uk
Get your boots on!
Members of the club – including new 2025/26 president John Dando (far right) at the launch of the scheme in June
MIDSOMER Norton and District Rotary Club is once again offering its boot swap scheme for young sports people to exchange outgrown footwear for a new set.
The club is hosting boot swaps at each monthly Midsomer Norton Farmer’s Market in July, August and September.
The scheme is being boosted by local football clubs who have donated new boots. Boot can be swapped for free or bought by donations to the rotary club.
l Rotarians will be running the stall in The Hollies on the first Saturday of each month.
Festival defies the weather
MORE than a dozen acts took to the stage at the first AmpFest music festival in Midsomer Norton.
Young bands and musicians from schools and colleges around the area – along with some more seasoned veterans – performed in the rain-affected, day-long event at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club.
Organiser Gordon Mackay said: “AmpFest came about because there wasn’t going to be the traditional Midsomer Norton Music and Arts Festival this year. Originally AmpFest was intended to be at the amphitheatre but as that wasn’t possible at short notice, the Rugby Club offered their facilities instead.”
The event was made possible due to a WECA Cultural Event grant which was put towards purchasing a PA, event gazebos and stage lights. Student sound engineers from Midsomer Sounds and Whacky Shirts Sounds volunteered to run the sound system on the day and dozens of local bands came forward willing to perform, whilst the scouts helped set up and ran a fundraising BBQ.
Gordon added: “Everyone volunteered their time, it was a real community effort. We had over 60 people performing, which I think may be a record for Midsomer Norton.”
A dream come true
CHEDDAR-born singer-songwriter Jo Hill is turning her lifelong dream into reality –landing a coveted spot on the BBC Introducing Stage at Glastonbury 2025. Back when she was just 12, Jo would roam Worthy Farm, soaking in the music –and even did shifts there to be part of the magic.
She said: “This is . . . for Cheddar! My whole hometown will be there. I used to be one of the kids throwing bin bags on lorries! I saw Stevie Wonder when I was 12 and told myself, ‘I’m going to play here
one day.’ Now I get to tell my flatmates –they’re all from Cheddar too. It’s wild.”
Her breakout debut album, girlhood, was released last November, showcasing Jo’s signature blend of indie-pop-rock-soul, sprinkled with a bit of West Country country. One of her most personal tracks, Glastonbury, inspired by the festival itself, will feature in her set.
During lockdown, Jo challenged herself to write a song a day from fan prompts on Instagram – a move that would ignite her career as a songwriter as well as artist.
4th, supporting Noah Kahan.
Glastonbury isn’t the only major gig on Jo’s horizon – she’s also set to perform at BST Hyde Park on July
Duo Ellie and Maddie on stage
Gordon (left) with the sound engineers
Paulton Ukelele Band ahead of their show
Local bands were showcased at the event
Cantilena concert Anniversary concerts
CANTILENA’S summer concert, Between the acres of the rye, is on Sunday, July 6th, 3pm at the United Reformed Church, High Street, Glastonbury.
It is a delightful musical expedition across Europe, through classical part-songs of Britten, Faure, Finzi, Debussy and many more.
It says: “As with all our summer concerts, this is our thank you to the community and all our supporters who help our charity choir to keep going by sharing our love of singing and the gift of music.”
They are always looking for new members to join the choir, especially tenors and basses.
Tickets, £12.50, U16s free, include a drink on arrival and a cream tea after the concert.
THEWest Gallery choir, which specialises in church music from the Georgian era, is having its 30th anniversary reunion on the weekend of July 12th.
The choir, which has the unusual name of “Called to be Saints”, still meets monthly and is revisiting some of the places they have sung in the past.
On Saturday, July 12th you can hear them at St Bridget’s, Chelvey, BS48 4AA, at 2pm and then All Saints, Wraxall, BS48 1LB, at 3.15pm, both for informal short performances. There will be no charge or booking needed. Just turn up!
Introduction
I am a farmer, cider maker, dowser, and now, confidently, a musician. My journey took an unexpected turn when I accidentally fell from a spaceship in 1962. I grew up on a small farm in Buckland Dinham, near Frome, surrounded by loving parents. My school experience, however, was challenging –I was knocked to the floor on my first day, which ignited my determination to self-educate. I encourage everyone to do your own research!
Initially, my goal in learning music was to raise funds for my school in Southern India, which supports 11 villages. As a dowser, I discovered a crucial water source for that community. I am driven to use my music to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of the Glastonbury Festival, which poses a serious threat to our village and local businesses. With this album, I am making my voice heard in a peaceful protest against the festival.
The songs on this album reflect eight significant years of my life, encompassing both joy and pain. My songwriting is a powerful expression of my spiritual beliefs and my commitment as an eco-warrior. Action speaks louder than words, and I firmly reject money as a motivator –history has shown us the devastation it spawns through wars and greed. A damaged environment leads to disease and decay, which some companies exploit for profit.
Everything revolves around frequency, so let’s stay in tune. In the eyes of our true Creator, we are all equal. Each of us is unique, embodying the divine on Earth, our true paradise. Unfortunately, negative forces mislead us about food and our souls. I stand firm for what’s right, but my fight is not one of guns or violence. It’s about saying no, making ethical choices, and maintaining faith without selfishness. With this mindset, we can achieve remarkable things. The reality is that darkness is simply the absence of light. The time to awaken is now; our planet is in peril, and countless lives, including children, are at risk. If we do not act decisively, we jeopardize the future of our children and our chance for heaven on Earth .
Ending on a high
AWARD winning tribute band 21st Century ABBA will round off a weekend of fabulous music in the grounds of The Bishop’s Palace in Wells in July.
The concert, on Sunday, July 13th, follows the inaugural Party at the Palace music event which takes place on Saturday, July 12th, with headliner Seth Lakeman.
Winning the Official UK No.1 Abba Tribute Band award from the Agents Association Ltd four years in a row, 21st Century ABBA will be playing all the best songs from our favourite Super Swedes.
Tickets for 21st Century ABBA can be purchased via the Palace’s Ticket Office or online at www.bishopspalace.org.uk
Meanwhile, entries are open for the second photography competition celebrating th palace gardens, buildings or wildlife.
This year, the competition is open to all ages with five categories. Siobhan Goodwin, Community Engagement Manager at The Bishop’s Palace said “We’re looking for photos of the gardens, buildings and wildlife across the historic site. Perhaps you already have a photograph that you think would look good on a playing card, or you’d like to test your skills and create some new images. Or maybe you want a bit of fun and
show off your dog’s visit to the Palace in the photo! We think there’s a category for everyone.”
Entries must be emailed to community@bishopspalace.org.uk by Monday 11th August 2025 and will be limited to two per person.
More information and the competition rules can be found at visit https://bishopspalace.org.uk/about/community-engagement/
5pm, Sunday 3rd August 2025 Gates open at 4pm
BRING YOUR OWN SEATING
Adults £18
5-12yrs £12
Licensed Bar Tea, Coffee and Brownies
Tickets Illyria.co.uk For more info claire@thevillagehut.com
Make merry in Corsley
ILLYRIAis back! With a fun-filled rendition of the Shakespearean classic that promises an evening of laughter, music, and entertainment on Sunday August 3rd from 4pm!
Sensational international-award-winning outdoor theatre specialists Illyria guarantee a night of laughter and hijinks under the stars, so head over for another evening of fabulous entertainment in the beautiful, historic grounds of Manor Farm in Wiltshire. Please note that no seating is provided this year.
Exciting times for Shepton
“BUY The Amulet”, a community-driven initiative dedicated to buying and reopening Shepton Mallet’s brutalist theatre, has announced a programme of pop-up summer events that will
see the return of cinema, theatre and live music to the venue for the first time in almost 20 years.
The Amulet closed to the public in 2006. A community group has been working to reopen the building since 2023 and has been given temporary access to the ground floor to put on a brief programme of pop-up events.
Martin Berkeley, project team member, said “We are so excited by this opportunity to briefly reopen the Amulet to showcase whata difference the building can make to Shepton Mallet.”
“We have been overwhelmed by the number of volunteers wanting to help out and the generous donations of technical equipment and expert advice.”
The events coincide with a community share offer, which hopes to raise £200,000 towards the purchase and reopening of the building.
Singing for health
SING2BREATHE focuses on supporting those with respiratory conditions by harnessing the power of breath, voice, and song.
There are two local groups meeting in Cheddar (Wednesday afternoons) and Wells (Thursday afternoons). Led by Kate Lynch, the group aims to help participants to improve their quality of life by empowering them to manage their breath more efficiently and effectively.
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive in the first 18 months of the group’s existence, with one participant saying: “Changed my life!”
Details: Kate 07595 745884 sing2breathe2@gmail.com
Some of the members of the project
Mendip in sound
VIEWIn, View Out is an immersive, multi-layered sound installation and sound trail inspired by the Mendip Hills National Landscape.
It’s been backed by Nature Calling, a new arts project encouraging new audiences to better understand and connect with their local natural landscapes, improving wellbeing and inspiring a sense of belonging.
Nature interpreter, Chris Howard, said: “With VIVO, we wanted to encourage the sense of a shift in time, space and feeling about the Mendip Hills.
“For people to be transported, and inspired, gaining a new connection with their ancestors, and the plants, history and wildlife of this landscape through its sounds.”
VIVO has been commissioned by the Mendip Hills National Landscape. The installation can be found in The Sovereign Centre, High Street, Weston-super-Mare from Monday, July 14th-20th.
AWARD-winning astrophotographer Josh Dury, from Compton Martin, has just launched his first book, titled “52 Assignments Night Photography” by Ammonite Press.
With endorsements from NASA, Apollo 11 Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, European Space Agency Astronaut Tim Peake and The Scientific Journal, Nature, Josh has taken images across the globe to document the many wonders of the night-sky.
In partnership with The Herschel Museum of Astronomy and The Bath Preservation Trust, Josh is arranging a book launch event at The Museum of Bath Architecture on Thursday, July 31sr.
Buffet open 10.30am to 15.30pm every
From images of local landmarks in Somerset, to the icy landscapes of Norway, to the darkest skies in the world of The Atacama Desert, Josh is profoundly interested in engaging others not only to admire but protect dark skies. His book in the first few weeks of launching was ranked as a Number One Best Seller on Amazon UK in Digital Photography Tips and Tricks. Josh said: “With this book, I hope to address the
demanding pressure on our dark skies. Not only are we seeing increased environmental effects from light pollution and now satellite constellations but also degrading impact to nocturnal wildlife and our natural beauty spots.”
l Tickets for the event can be purchased here: https://herschelmuseum.org.uk/event/author-talk-52-assignmentsnight-photography-by-josh-dury/
Josh and his new book
Show organisers “bray” for good weather
DONKEY showing classes will make their debut at this year’s Mid-Somerset Show alongside the ever-popular horse categories.
Proudly affiliated to the Donkey Breed Society, the classes are sure to be popular with exhibitors and visitors alike. The date for entries is Friday, July 28th. Entries after that time –up to the closing date of Sunday, August 10th –will incur an extra cost.
The MSS takes place at the Shepton Mallet Showground on Sunday, August 17th. Admission is free for pedestrians but there is a charge for car parking. Early bird offers to secure a parking space at a discounted rate of £16 –it is £20 on the day – are available.
As ever, the show promises to be a fantastic family day out with something for everyone from dog shows and cheese tasting to livestock displays and crafts stalls.
It is one of several events organised by the show society. In May, it ran its first Horse Show, welcoming all abilities, which proved a big success.
Last month, it held a popular social evening for members and guests at Kilver Court, courtesy of owner Matthew Showering.
Enjoying the gardens (l to r): Ed and Fiona Freely, show secretary Christine Barham, Letta and Matthew Showering and society chairman Graham Walton
The British Solar Renewables team at Kilver Court. The company is one of the society’s main sponsors
T HE M ENDIP T IMES W
Commercial entries cost £25. We’re happy to offer entries for non-profit community group meetings and charity fundraisers free of charge. If you feel that your entry fits our criteria for free publicity please state why – and send a succinct single paragraph, in a format that can be copied and pasted to annie@mendiptimes.co.uk
Wednesday June 25th
Bereavement Help Point, Shepton Mallet: an informal, supportive space where you can meet others who may be experiencing similar feelings. All welcome. Free drop-in, 1011.45am, Shepton Brasserie, 64 High St. Details: 0345 0310 555 or dorothyhouse.co.uk Wells Folk Night 8pm City Arms. Music, song and good company! Free. All welcome. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com
Frome Society: Derek Niemann tells the true story of bird watching by British prisoners of war, 7 for 7.30pm, Frome Cricket Club BA11 2AH. Free (charity donation).
Monday June 30th
Cheddar Valley Singers, Mondays 7pm Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Details on Facebook or cheddarvalleysingers@gmail.com
Tuesday July 1st
Weston u3a meet for coffee every Tuesday, 10am Friends Meeting House, 6 High St WsM BS23 1JF. All welcome.
Joyful Voices fill your afternoon with song! Tuesdays 1.30-3pm Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Details: joyfulvoicesafternoon@gmail.com
Wednesday July 2nd
Clevedon Gardener’s Club 1st and 3rd Wed. each month, 7.30pm Kenn Rd Methodist Church Hall, Clevedon BS21 6LH. Details: clevedongardeners.chessck.co.uk Sing2breathe for breathlessness – learn techniques for breathing control and improved posture, 1.45 to 3pm every Weds this month, Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Details: Kate: vocalkate@gmail.com 07595 745884. Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers talk by Yvonne Bell from “Serendipity” 2-3.30 pm WI Hall, Backwell.
“An evening with Dr Adam” (of Weston Hospicecare) who with his wife, an A&E doctor, rowed around Britain and across the Atlantic for charity, 6.30pm Isle of Wedmore Bowls Club, BS28 4BS. Tickets £10 incl supper from the Paper Shop Wedmore or Shirley 01934 712089.
Thursday July 3rd
Chew Valley Death Café meets 12-1.30pm Community Library Bishop Sutton, first Thursday every month. A safe supportive space to talk about life, death and loss over tea and cake. All welcome. Please contact: bryonyhuntley2019@gmail.com
Paulton Folk Night 8.30pm Red Lion. Music, song and good company! Free. All welcome. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com
Draycott Art Club: two sessions, 10am-1pm & 2-4pm every Thursday except school holidays, Memorial Hall BS27 3UE. All welcome. Details: draycottartclub.mendip@gmail.com Sing2breathe for breathlessness – for breathing control and posture 2.15-3.30pm every Thurs until August, Priory Health Centre outpatients, Wells. Details: Kate: vocalkate@gmail.com 07595 745884. Claverham Ladies’ Guild talk “Goats of the
Gorge”, 2pm-4pm Village Hall BS49 4GG. £4 entry. Details: 01934 838017.
Joyful Spirit Choir meets every Thursday, 7.15pm Wrington Chapel, Ropers Lane BS40 5NH. If you love to sing come and join us- all welcome! Details: joyfulspiritrehearsals@gmail.com Mendip Morris and Wild Moon Morris dancing outside the Strawberry Special, Draycott at 8pm.
Somerset Morris practice every Thurs 8pm10pm, Marksbury Village Hall BA2 9HP. New (female) dancers and musicians of both sexes very welcome. Parking. Details: somersetmorris@hotmail.com or 07968 229628.
Friday July 4th
Radstock Folk Dance Club, every Friday 810pm St Peter's Church Hall, Westfield. Beginners welcome, partners not essential, £3 incl refreshments. Details: heather.m.leverton@gmail.com
Friday July 4th and Sat July 5th
Southwest Area of National Flower Arrangers: “70 Glorious Years” 10am-4pm North Hill Farm, Tunley. Tickets £5 from: southwestareaticketsandsubs@gmail.co
Saturday July 5th
Paulton Party in the Park, Memorial Park, 29pm.
Axbridge Fun Day, The Furlong, 1-10pm. Chewton Mendip Village Fete 3-6pm, church field. Entry £2 on the gate or with £1 programme bought in advance from village shop. Sorry no dogs. Details: Instagram @chewtonmendipfete
Publow Church market: stalls and refreshments 10am-11.30 All Saints. Entry £1. Details: birchwoodhouse@btinternet.com
Sunday July 6th
Glastonbury Cantilena Choir “Between the acres of the rye” a musical journey across Europe, 3pm United Reformed Church, High St, BA6 9DZ. £12.50 U-16 free. Details: cantachoir1@gmail.com
St Hugh’s, Charterhouse: Arts and Crafts styled chapel, aims to be open each Sunday until 14th Sept, 2pm to 5pm, if we have enough volunteers! Teas and toilets. All welcome, incl dogs. Details: chris.ball66@gmail.com
Wells Romulus and Remus Italian Festival. Live music and fun for all the family. Palace Farm, Wells, BA5 1UN. Details and tickets: www.wellsitalianfestival.co.uk
Leigh-on-Mendip car show and family day. 9.30am-3pm. Recreation Ground. Stalls and games.
West Pennard Secret Gardens, 1-5.30pm, tickets available from the village hall on the day, £5 adults, children free, in aid of the village hall and Royal British Legion.
Monday 7th July
RAFA Mid-Somerset Branch meeting, 11am Wells Golf Club, BA5 3DS. Pre-lunch talk by Roger Cowie “VC10 Ground Engineer on Ascension Island in 1982”. Details: rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057.
Chew Valley Flower Club: Floral Art demonstration 7.30pm Compton Martin Hall. Details: 01275 835711.
Tuesday July 8th
Frome Selwood Horticultural Society talk “Gardening on the wild side of Dartmoor" by Hilary Little, 7.30pm Critchill School, BA11 4LD Details: 0777 620 8531 or jane.norris9@gmail.com
Parkinson’s NW Somerset Support Group Singalong 2.30-4pm St Francis Church Hall, Nailsea. Popular old favourites – no skill needed!
Jazz Jam with the Valley Arts House band, all welcome, 8pm Pelican, Chew Magna. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk
Wednesday July 9th
Wells Folk & Barn Dance Club 7.30-9.30pm St Thomas's Church Hall, BA5 2UZ. All welcome. Details: wellsfdc.co.uk
Bereavement Help Point, Shepton Mallet: an informal, supportive space where you can meet others who may be experiencing similar feelings. All welcome. Free drop-in, 1011.45am, Shepton Brasserie, 64 High St. Details: 0345 0310 555 or dorothyhouse.co.uk
Blagdon Local History Society 7.30pm Court Lodge BS407TQ. The history of Thatchers Cider, with Martin Thatcher. Details: www.blagdonlhs.com
Mendip Storytelling Circle Story Evening 730pm Ston Easton Village Hall, BA3 4DA. £5 entry. Details: mendipstorycircle@gmail.com 01275 332735.
Kilmersdon Gardeners talk “the bearded Iris” by Andrew King 7.15 for 7.30pm village hall, BA3 5TD. Visitors welcome £3. Details: www.kilmersdongardeners.org
Pensford Lunch 12 to 2pm, Old School Room. All welcome. Details: Jane 07780 677253.
Thursday July 10th
Chew Valley Gardening Club talk by Mary Payne MBE ‘Clematis, the Queen of Climbers’, 8pm Stanton Drew village hall. Easy parking & access.
Mendip Morris dancing at the Queen Victoria pub, Priddy at 8pm.
Friday July 11th
Jenny Peplow Singers with new songs and old favourites, 7.15pm Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, High St, BA3 2DR. Free, with donations for Emily's Roses Foundation. Details Jenny: 07950 765437.
The Magic Flute, Opera in a Box. 7pm Yeo Valley Organic Garden, Blagdon. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk
West Gallery Choir singing at two different venues: 2pm at St Bridget's Church, Chelvey, BS48 4AA and at 3.15pm All Saints, Wraxall BS48 1LB. Free. Details emmetts1977@gmail.com
Farmborough Repair Café 10am-12.30, Farmborough Memorial Hall BA2 0AH, next to the community shop. Electrical and sewing repairs for a small donation. Details: ShareRepairFarmborough@gmail.com
Saturday July 12th and Sun July 13th
Hidden Voices Community Play: written and performed by local residents of all ages, 11am, 2pm and 7pm, The Community Farm, Chew Valley Lake.
Sunday July 13th
Leigh on Mendip Open Gardens and Heritage Trail 11am-4.30pm. Tickets/maps £7 from the Memorial Hall BA3 5QH. Light lunches all day. Details: folcleigh@gmail.com
Banwell Community picnic, 12 to 4pm, hosted by the football club.
Chew Party in the Paddock family fun day 12–6pm Chew Magna Cricket field.
Monday July 14th
Norton Radstock u3a talk: “The mystery of maps” 1.30pm-4pm Somer Centre, M Norton, BA3 2UH. Visitors welcome Details www.norad.u3asite.uk
Priddy Folk Session 8.30pm Queen Victoria. Music, song and good company! Free. All welcome. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com
Tuesday July 15th
Arts Society Mid Somerset talk ‘James Ravilious: photography of a forgotten corner of Britain’, 11am, Caryford Hall Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. Coffee from 10.15. Visitors £8. Wrington Local History Society: the Redcliffe Films production of the life and work of Hannah More is being shown at 7pm at Barley Wood, Wrington, her home for 26 years. All welcome, visitors £2.50. Details: osmansteve@yahoo.co.uk
Wednesday July 16th
Friends of Weston Museum short guided walk, meet 2pm at the Boathouse Cafe Uphill Wharf then back to the café. Free to all but refreshments at own expense. Details www.facebook.com/groups/friendsofthemuseum Mendip Gardening Club talk: “Garden trees, their horticultural benefits and use” by Mark Cassidy. 7.30pm Ston Easton Village Hall BA3 4DA. Details: 01761 453654
Saturday, July 19th
Winscombe Tennis Club Open Day 10am4pm at The Lynch BS25 1AP (behind the cricket club). All ages and abilities welcome. Refreshments. Details: winscombelawntennisclub@live.co.uk
Discover Banwell's Ancient Past – special exhibition and memorial unveiling, Banwell Youth & Community Centre.
Frome Carnival Family Fun Day & Dog Show 12-5pm Victoria Park. Carnival royalty selection. Details and entry forms from: www.fromecarnival.org.uk or email info@fromecarnival.org.uk
Sunday July 20th
Burrington Combe Rock of Ages Service,
with Mendip Brass Band, 10.30am in the combe, weather permitting. Holy Trinity Church, Burrington if too wet.
Monday, July 21st
Winscombe District u3a. Talk by Bernard Purrier ‘Wildlife in Alaska’. 2 for 2.30pm Winscombe Community Centre. BS25 1JA. £2.50. Visitors welcome.
Tuesday July 22nd
Winscombe Folk & Acoustic Club 7.30 for 8pm in the quiet "Room Upstairs", Winscombe Club, BS25 1HD. Open mic for music, song, poetry. Every 4th Tuesday £2.
Wells & District Wildlife Group walk Butterflies at the Mineries, 2pm-4pm. We hope to see fritillaries, marbled whites, ringlets, small coppers and more. Details: www.wdwg.org.uk or 07415 350062.
Parkinson’s NW Somerset Support Group Singalong 2.30-4pm St Francis Church Hall, Nailsea. Popular old favourites – no skill needed!
Open Mic Night 7.45pm, with Valley Arts, The Pony, Chew Magna.
Chilcompton Gardening Club talk by Michael Smith: “Year-round colour” 7.30pm village hall. All welcome. Details on Facebook. Wednesday July 23rd
Bereavement Help Point, Shepton Mallet: an informal, supportive space where you can meet others who may be experiencing similar feelings. All welcome. Free drop-in, 1011.45am, Shepton Brasserie, 64 High St. Details: 0345 0310 555 or dorothyhouse.co.uk Pensford Lunch 12 to 2pm, Old School Room. All welcome. Details: Jane 07780 677253. Alice Through the Looking Glass from Quantum Theatre 7pm, Yeo Valley Organic Garden. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk
Wells Folk Night 8pm City Arms. Music, song and good company! Free. All welcome. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com
Thursday July 24th
Wells & District Wildlife Group: Glow worms walk through the back lanes of Westbury-sub-Mendip after dark, 9.15-10.30pm, with Peter Bright. Details: www.wdwg.org.uk or phone 07415 350062.
Friday July 25th
Introduction to Social table tennis 2pm-4 Compton Dando village hall. Free. All abilities welcome, bats supplied. Details: richardjamesdavis@hotmail.com or 07968 269841.
Saturday July 26th
RAFA-MSB BBQ, 11am -2.30pm Ad Astra Cider Farm, Stone Allerton, BS26 2NG. £14pp. Details: rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057.
Yatton & District Horticultural Society Summer Show at Yatton Village Hall and Glebelands 2pm.
St Andrew's Church, Holcombe, Flower Festival and anniversary exhibition from 10.30am. Details: 07938 962097.
Nunney Fayre 10am-5pm, with stalls, live music, food and drink, kids zone and dog show. Free entry. Parking £5.
Sunday July 27th
Cameley: Choral Evensong 6.30pm at the
“redundant” church of St James, with collection towards the renovation of its ancient wall paintings. Details: www.stjamescameley.co.uk Jazz in the Orchard, fundraiser for Wrington Vale Rotary, with The Black Velvet Band, a pig roast and pay bar. Thatcher’s Orchard, Sandford. Tickets £20, U16s £10. Details: Angie 07790 400718.
Monday July 28th
Norton Radstock u3a Coffee morning 10am12noon, Somer Centre M Norton BA3 2UH. Visitors welcome. Details www.norad.u3asite.uk
Wednesday July 30th
Frome Society: Kevin Ross reveals stories of Lost Prisoner of War Camp of Frome, 7 for 7.30pm, Frome Cricket Club BA11 2AH. Free (charity donation).
Harptrees History Society: Blagdon guided walk, 2pm £5. Please book from July 16th by email: info@harptreeshistorysociety.org Subject line "Blagdon July".
Thursday July 31st
Mendip Morris and Mr Wilkins Shilling are dancing outside the Prince of Waterloo pub Winford at 8pm.
Sunday August 3rd
St Hugh’s, Charterhouse: Arts and Crafts styled chapel, aims to be open each Sunday until 14th Sept, 2pm to 5pm, if we have enough volunteers! Teas and toilets. All welcome, incl dogs. Details: chris.ball66@gmail.com Nempnett Thrubwell village fete at the village hall.
Wednesday August 6th
Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers talk by Grete Howard "The Golden Eagle festival in Mongolia" 2-3.30 pm WI Hall, Backwell.
Pensford Lunch 12 to 2pm, Old School Room. All welcome. Details: Jane 07780 677253. Thursday August 7th
Chew Valley Death Café meets 12-1.30pm Community Library Bishop Sutton, first Thursday every month. A safe supportive space to talk about life, death and loss over tea and cake. All welcome. Please contact: bryonyhuntley2019@gmail.com
Paulton Folk Night 8.30pm Red Lion. Music, song and good company! Free. All welcome. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com
Wells & District Wildlife Group: Glow worms walk through the back lanes of Westbury sub Mendip after dark, 9pm -10.30pm, with Peter Bright. Details: www.wdwg.org.uk or phone 07415 350062.
Somerset Morris practice every Thursday (except 21st) 8pm-10pm, Marksbury Village Hall BA2 9HP. New (female) dancers and musicians of both sexes very welcome. Parking. Details: somersetmorris@hotmail.com or 07968 229628.
A RARE opportunity to hear Frome Festival founder and president Martin Bax talk about his experimental work with the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford will take place at the Merlin Theatre in Frome on Sunday, July 6th.
This event – part of the
STRATFORD’S “FORGOTTEN” THEATRE
– a talk by Martin Bax
Hear the founder and president of the Frome Festival talk about his experimental and pioneering theatre project called The Roundhouse Theatre in conjunction with the RSC in Stratford-on-Avon.
The Merlin Theatre, Frome Sunday, July 6th (11am).
Free but booking essential from the theatre or Frome Festival box office
Frome Festival – begins with a documentary film by multi award-winning director Andrew Smith describing Martin’s work in Stratford, where he organised an experimental season of plays, reviews, films, poetry readings and concerts with members of the RSC in a converted house.
He called it the Roundhouse Stratford and this led eventually to the second permanent theatrical space in Stratford called The Other Place.
Martin appears in conversation with Professor Abigail Rokison-Woodall, of the Stratford Institute, and Andrew.
VOLUNTEER working parties do regular footpath maintenance all around the Mendip area. This group were installing new gates and repairing a footbridge in Wookey recently.
New members are always welcome and if you would like to try out a walk with no obligation contact them.
