Issue 6 - Volume 21 - Mendip Times

Welcome

THE carnival season is upon us – we have photos from Axbridge, Castle Cary and Frome, with details of the main carnival circuit to come.

The Mendip Ploughing Match is another sign of the year drawing to a close – we have pictures from there, the Dairy Show and Wells Food Festival.

We put the spotlight on the Chew Valley this month in the first of our preChristmas features. Thanks to all the advertisers who make these features possible.

We meet a ten-year-old who is heading for the World Karting championships and the man who is taking over from Len Sweales as the town crier of Wells.

In our charity pages we report on Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s plans to add a second helicopter.

We hear about the progress being made on the old Somersetshire coal canal – and how a pine marten has been spotted on Mendip for what may well be the first time in 100 years!

With all of our regular contributors and features – Mendip is full of surprises.

December 2025 deadline: Friday 14th November

Published: Tuesday 25th November

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

Accounts: accounts@mendiptimes.co.uk

Publisher: Mendip Times Limited

Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG

Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone: 01761 463888 or email: news@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk

Design and origination by:

Steve Henderson

–crowds flock to

Printed by: Precision Colour Printing, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ

Front cover: Majorettes in Castle Cary Carnival.

Photo by Mark Adler. See page 60

New deputies appointed

FOUR new deputy lieutenants have been appointed to assist and support the Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset as the King’s representative in the county.

They are Linda Nash, from Clevedon, Mary Ellis, from Wells, Nickie Gething, from Bruton and Alastair Martin, from Wookey, near Wells.

Lord-Lieutenant, Mohammed Saddiq, said: “I am delighted to welcome these four outstanding individuals as Deputy Lieutenants for Somerset.

“Each brings a wealth of experience and commitment to serving our communities and they will make a significant contribution to the life of our county.”

Ploughing for England

Tim Hurley on his 1976 Massey Ferguson 135

TIM Hurley, who lives in Stanton Wick, has qualified for the European Ploughing Championships next year in Denmark.

He did this by winning second place at the National Ploughing Championships, which were held at Allesley, near Coventry.

Tim started off his love of ploughing when he went to Brymore School at Cannington after which he started working for Ted Walker, who was a champion in high cut ploughing.

He won several young farmers ploughing cups and classes in the Somerset area with a conventional plough.

After he married, he moved to Hampshire on a 1200acre farm as a tractor driver and rotating stock feeder in1982.

He said: “This is where I started reversible ploughing and in 1988 won in the Hampshire county final which made me eligible to plough at the National ploughing match in 1989.”

Tim has ploughed 16 times in the world style reversible at the National and has had two seconds. He ploughed for England in the Six Nations this spring and came third.

He and his wife now live in a barn conversion on his wife’s family farm and he has his own business doing garden and building maintenance.

Peace poppies

THEdeputy mayor of Wells, Cllr Denise Denis, joined members of Mendip CND & Peace group to lay a wreath of white poppies at The Harry Patch Memorial on the annual UN International Day of Peace on September 21st.

Town clerk steps down

Clerk Paul Wynne and Peter Wheelhouse

FROMEtown clerk, Paul Wynne, has retired from his role at Frome Town Council after an 18year career with the council.

He said: “It’s been a great time to be in this role and I’m proud of all the wonderful things I’ve helped to deliver over the years.”

He said the highlights have been taking back Frome Town Hall to create a welcoming place for the community and a real focal point for the town; helping to secure the town’s own green belt –Whatcombe Fields – and lots of other green spaces and allotments that are great places to recharge batteries.

He said: “Establishing Fair Frome and helping to support so many other truly great community groups in the town without whom we would all live in a much poorer place.”

The said the community resilience developed during Covid remains and is building all the time, which puts the town in a great place to face an uncertain future together.

Peter Wheelhouse, deputy town clerk and economic regeneration manager, will take over as interim town clerk while the recruitment process for a permanent replacement takes place.

Pine marten spotted on Mendip

CHARLIEand Rachel Fayers believe they have recorded the first pine marten on Mendip for 100 years.

It was caught on a camera trap on A Patch Wilder, their 15-acre project to

restore grassland and woodland for nature and wildlife.

They set up a camera in the woods to monitor wildlife there and say they were amazed to find a video of a pine marten

Details: www.apatchsilder.com

Testing our rivers

BRISTOLAvon Rivers Trust (BART) has announced the findings of its 2025 RiverBlitz survey into the health of rivers in our area

From the Mendips in the south, through South Gloucestershire in the north, and all the way to Devizes in the east, local people joined forces to test their rivers.

This year’s RiverBlitz saw volunteers collect 267 samples across the catchment – an increase on last year’s effort – testing nitrate and phosphate levels.

These nutrients enter rivers from a range of sources including agricultural fertilisers and manure, sewage discharges, urban runoff, and common household products such as detergents.

Excess nutrients can trigger rapid growth of plants and algae. This reduces oxygen in the water, blocks sunlight, and can suffocate fish and other aquatic life.

This year, results showed that 70% of sites sampled had high levels of nutrients (phosphate & nitrate combined). This was just below the average (2016-2024) of 74% of sites having high nutrients and similar to last year’s 69%. Nitrate levels were lower than average and phosphate levels were higher.

The percentage of sites with high nitrate fell sharply, from 64% in 2024 to 40% in 2025, and was well below the average (20162024) of 62%.

It says the hot and dry summer of 2025 could have reduced surface run-off and leaching, limiting the amount of nitrogen washed into rivers compared with wetter years.

when they checked it on Tuesday, September 23rd.

They have also found species such as polecat, adder, hazel dormouse, greater horseshoe bat and small blue butterfly since they started five years ago.

Pine martens were extinct from the county for over 100 years, but there have been rare sightings since reintroductions in the Forest of Dean and Dartmoor, with plans to release more on Exmoor later this year.

It is considered that pine martens would be beneficial as their prey items include grey squirrels among other things.

Since buying the small farm near Winscombe, the couple have planted 1,830 trees, dug five ponds and recorded 700 species.

But the percentage of sites with high phosphate levels was noticeably higher than the average, with 61% sites sampled having high phosphate in 2025 compared to the average of 40% of sites sampled.

It says the results indicate that phosphates were still entering or persisting in our watercourses in July and the particularly low river levels probably meant phosphates were more concentrated.

Amy Wade, Community Engagement & Education Lead of BART, said: “This year’s results are a fascinating reminder of how dynamic our rivers are.

“The contrast between nitrates and phosphates underlines why long-term, consistent monitoring is so important. RiverBlitz is not just about collecting data, it’s about empowering people to take action for their local rivers.”

Details: https://bristolavonriverstrust.org/

New lease of life

A 140-YEAR-OLDNorway Maple tree in Victoria Park, Frome has been turned into a hand-carved table and nature-themed bench, after being felled due to a serious fungal infection.

The bench has been created by specialist woodworker Graham Derham close to Frome Park Bowling Club.

“Big Work Parties” makes good progress

VOLUNTEERS working to restore a section of the former Somersetshire Coal Canal at Paulton have cleared a further hurdle in their efforts to return it to water.

Two so-called Big Work Parties in September concentrated on the four wing walls of the Paulton Basin, drawing on skilled builders and stonemasons for the task. They followed similar events earlier in the year.

The Somersetshire Coal Canal – which operated from 18041898 – began its journey at Limpley Stoke, connecting with the Kennet & Avon Canal. The canal ran west to Midford, crossing the River Cam on an aqueduct, before the route divided.

The Southern Arm to Radstock was ultimately a failure; it was rapidly replaced by a tramway and then largely obliterated by the Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway.

The more enduring Northern Arm continued to Combe Hay, where engineers conquered the elevation with an impressive flight of 22 locks. From the summit level, the canal followed the twists of the Cam Valley, navigating one tunnel and three more aqueducts on its way to the busy Paulton and Timsbury Basins.

Volunteer Tracy Craven said: “This project has been ongoing

for years, and the increased volunteer turnout was exactly what we needed to push it towards completion!

“Following successful sessions in April and June, we committed to two final work parties in September, hoping for cooperative weather. Many of the original volunteers returned, driven by a shared passion to see the walls fully restored.

“While we hold regular Sunday work parties at Paulton, these special events have zeroed in on rebuilding the bridge walls, drawing in skilled builders and stonemasons for the task.

“On the first of the two Big Work Parties, we had local stonemason Robbie Allen of Robbie Allen Fireplaces who generously donated his time and expertise, guiding the team to ensure the walls are both sturdy and visually impressive. On the second work party we had Ian Watson, a lecturer at Wiltshire College doing a similar role.

“Thanks to the tremendous effort of all our volunteers across the four Big Work Parties, we've made fantastic progress! The project is nearly ready for the next section to be put into water. Our final push involves backfilling and pointing the stonework, putting finishing touches on the nearby sluice gate, and cutting and fixing the huge coping stones into position.”

Terminus Bridge work site

Fourth Big Work Party making progress

Please do not disturb!

BYOctober/November insects are beginning to respond to changes that lead them to adapt their life cycles. Triggers include shortening of the number of daylight hours (the most certain and inevitable change), decreasing temperatures and food shortages.

These are changes that set off physiological reactions leading to a state of suspended animation similar to hibernation and called diapause. This is a dormant time achieved by closing down metabolic processes to conserve energy.

There are various strategies that can be used to achieve this state. For example, some insects put on weight during good times so that survival is possible without food. Some insects can produce glycerol a kind of antifreeze that prevents their bodies from freezing during very cold spells.

Others such as the painted lady butterfly undertake long journeys to find warmer climates until our spring returns.

Not all insects overwinter as an adult. Some do but others may overwinter as eggs, larvae or pupae – but all have to be prepared!

Whatever the stage, all need a safe, undisturbed spot such as log piles, brash, leaf litter, soil, holes in the soil left by mice or bees, clumps of uncut grass,

crevices in walls, dead plants and the bark of trees.

Gardeners can provide many of these needs – if only we would so that when spring comes there is plenty of life surviving. I think insects deserve the kind of sign left on hotel rooms – Do not disturb please!

The shield bug or stink bug is an example of an insect that overwinters as an adult. There are 33 species native to the British Isles but the most common is the green shield bug. They are squat, geometrically shaped insects enclosed in a hard carapace.

They are often found basking on leaves such as roses and raspberries. They are one of the easiest insects to watch since they do not fly away quickly if disturbed though they can fly, mainly to find a mate, food or avoid predators.

Their flight is slow and clumsy with two pairs of wings. Their camouflage is usually enough so that they do not need to fly. My photo does not suggest this I’m afraid. Shield bugs have a long proboscis so that they can suck sap from their host but usually no real damage occurs.

When in danger shield bugs can expel foul smelling chemicals from their abdomen. Dried shield bugs pounded into powder were used by apothecaries to help urinary tract disorders and for reducing fevers and soothing colic. Powder could also be mixed with honey or rosewater to be used as a lotion.

Green shield bugs overwinter as adults in secluded places as mentioned. They change colour from green to dark brown or bronze to blend in with their hiding place. In April or May they emerge, lay eggs and begin their cycle again. They are not harmful to humans but may cause some crop damage.

Whose home is this?

This area in the garden was once a place for bonfires but was abandoned and planted with shrubs. However soon small holes began to appear. We called it the rabbit warren. During the last two years the holes have been dug out deeper and there are more of them.

Some shrubs have been undermined and have died. Could this be a badger sett? There have been no signs of any inhabitants but does anyone have suggestions about whose home this is please?

Finally, please add “do not disturb” insect hiding places in your garden if possible and maybe get more enjoyment from it too.

DIANA REDFERN

Farmers enjoy a second spell of spring!

IFyou’ve been out and about recently you may have noticed an abundance of acorns. They are a great source of food for many animals. Pigeons love them and it is common for them to collect up to 40 in a single day, store them in their crop and digest them overnight. Not all animals can use them as a source of nutrients like pigeons. Because of the high levels of tannins in acorns, they are poisonous to cows, sheep, horses and dogs.

It depends on how many acorns these animals eat and how badly they are affected but it does cause tummy upsets to some degree. In extreme cases it can cause organ damage and death. Given the choice of nice grass or acorns I think most cows, sheep and horses would go for the grass.

I don’t know what dogs think of acorns, but dog walkers need to be aware of the dangers if their dog starts showing an interest in them.

November heralds the excitement of bonfire night and everything that goes with it. There is a growing move towards silent fireworks which, whilst not as exciting as the real thing, are much more sympathetic to animals.

We all know about dogs cowering in a dark place when fireworks are let off but less well known is the panic that they can instil in herds of outdoor pigs and cows. Also, silent but deadly, are Chinese Lanterns. They might float off majestically into the night sky but when they land in fields, they become deadly to cattle. If a cow eats a piece of the wire structure, invariably it damages their stomach and often results in death.

I’ve written previously this year about the drought and its effect on grass growth. As ever, the seasons seem to be compensating themselves and we have had our second spring. Rain in September fell onto warm ground and the grass grew like there was no tomorrow. Cows went from roaming around parched pasture to lush green fields.

Farmers have taken advantage of this and have had cows grazing high quality, spring-like grass with many taking a late cut of silage. As well as the extended grazing providing much-needed feed, the ability to keep cows out in the fields means less bedding is required, less manure is collected in the farmyard and less winter yard work. The longer this continues the better.

FarmLink has featured in the Mendip Times previously. It is a charity dedicated to teaching children about farming, food and the environment. There is a dual approach to teaching children about these things. The charity sends deliverers into schools to teach lessons linked to the National Curriculum and hosts farm visits.

Each of the farms used is fully equipped to host visiting groups, have full risk assessments, are insured and have inspirational hosts. Next year is FarmLink’s 20th birthday and it is having an auction of promises on November 29th to kick the year off.

If anyone would like to enjoy a fun night out, find out anything about FarmLink or book a class in for a lesson you can contact Tim Ledbury at tim@farmlink.org.uk

With NICK GREEN

The Publow oak

The “future of dairy” –top quality goes on show

FARMERS and their families flocked in their thousands to the 2025 Dairy Show at the Royal Bath & West Showground in Shepton Mallet.

Crowds estimated to be 6,000-strong flocked to the lines of trade stands and to admire the 600+ cattle competing for the top prize of being crowned supreme show champion, which was awarded to a Holstein cow, Davlea Chief Lulu, owned by Ollie Reed, from Exeter.

The show also saw an inaugural day-long conference about regenerative farming. LandAlive at the Dairy Show brought together farmers, processors, retailers, researchers, and food industry leaders to explore how regenerative methods are shaping the future of dairy — from soil to shelf. The conference was organised by the Ark Consultancy and Sustainable Food Somerset.

The supreme champion

Crowds line the main avenue

Show chairman David Cotton (left) with show society chief executive Carol Paris and Les Davies, Mendip Times contributor, who chaired the Agri-Forum

Dressed to impress – promoting the Cattle Information Service

Mike Wandel with his Ayrshire senior cow Wroughton Mayflower, making her fourth appearance at the show

Plough’s about that, then?

A FOGGY start turned into an almost cloudless day for the annual Mendip Ploughing Match, held this year at Franklyn’s Farm at Chewton Mendip. It was the 155th meeting organised by the Mendip Ploughing Society and included competitions in drystone walling and hedging.

A pair of heavy horses in action

Flying the flag

Concentration on the face of this young ploughman, driving a Fordson tractor

A competitor in the horticultural ploughing class

Andrew Chamberlain from Cheddar walling

Champion hedgelayer, Alex Bown from Binegar

Caroline Taylor from Gurney Slade

Jemima Western

This year’s match was held at Chewton Mendip

Champion ploughmen with champion of champions Alex Bown

Roots, forage and grain judges Gary Pulsford and Richard Greaves

A far cry from the modern-day

Juliian Clothier with his champion roots Ladies ready for lunch

Sam Wedmore from Chewton Mendip

Some adjustments being made to the plough

The Mendip Mindbender

28. Pick up article in valley (5)

1. Nero starting his fiddling gets the bird (5)

4. Rugby player with no alcohol reaches location of the old Kings Arms (6)

9. Dashboard instrument (9)

10. Reversing out with posh car to get to Cornish town (5)

11. Goes up (7)

12. A place to spill blood over we are told (7)

13. Be without sophistication (4,5)

16.Wells being the smallest in England (4)

18. Deceive (4)

19. Praised (9)

22. Pam’s hip playing up between Cheddar and Churchill (7)

23. Monsieur commonly finds diver (7)

25 & 27. Sounds like fire put off near Cross (5,6)

26. Stubborn (9)

27. See 25 Across

DOWN

1. Bird and Nature Reserve (3,4)

2. Old artefact covered in rare lichen (5)

3 & 5. Trump went hellbent in negotiation near Blagdon (8,9)

4. Tortured soul to lose nothing then blossom (5)

5. See 3 Down

6. Beginning (6)

7. Miscellaneous items (8)

8. Levels village as almighty longing arises (6)

14. Music PA entertains Charlie playing one from The Red Hot Chilli Peppers (8)

15. Flatten (9)

17. Disregarding (8)

18. Stop steamship shifting with tide (6)

20. Crap time in prison (7)

21. Flail (6)

23. Old way going west in some

places so fast (5)

24. First of avocet in middle of lake somewhere between 1 & 8 Down

This month’s solution can be found on page 86

Galhampton

Open 7 days a week

Mon-Sat 7.30am – 5.30pm | Sun 10am – 4pm 01963 440464

By Fairlight Cryptic Clues are in italics

Update from Tessa Munt

MP for Wells & Mendip Hills

I was delighted to discover when my team did a count, I’ve held well over 100 ‘surgeries’ since the election last year. I love using local pubs, independent coffee shops and community cafes –the ‘buzz’ means conversations are private. In Parliament, I’ve raised issues for residents including the new ‘Duty of Candour’ for public servants, action on poor care for patients with surgical mesh implants and the scourge of pavement parking.

I’m honoured to be elected Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Flooding and Flooded Communities, hitting the ground running –meeting the Association of Drainage Authorities, representatives from Councils and agencies in Eastern England and speaking at the Flooding Resilience Conference 2025.

I’ve visited many businesses and charitable organisations. One stands out: Weston HospiceCare. I was amazed at the end-of-life care offered there. I’ll press the point in Westminster that unless there’s fairer funding for vital endof-life care services, our Hospices will be forced to scale back services, directly harming local people when they face the most challenging periods of their lives –the last thing any Hospice wants to do.

If you’d like to discuss your concerns, I’ll be at the following venues:

Saturday 1st November from 08:30 to 10:00 at Coffee #1, Wells

Saturday 1st November from 11:30 to 12:30 at The Lamb, Axbridge

Friday 7th November from 08:00 to 09:00 at The Mendip Pantry, Chewton Mendip

Friday 7th November from 10:00 to 11:00 at The Market Kitchen, Churchill

Friday 7th November from 12:00 to 13:00 at The Red Cow, Brent Knoll

Friday 7th November from 18:00 to 19:00 at The Pub Night, Ashcott

Saturday 8th November from 09:00 to 10:00 at The Bluebird Café, Wedmore

Saturday 8th November from 11:30 to 12:30 at The Hive Café, Shepton Mallet

Saturday 8th November from 13:30 to 14:30

The Coffee Bank, Winscombe

Friday 14th November from 08:00 to 09:00 at Edelweiss Café, Cheddar

Friday 14th November from 10:00 to 11:00 at The Community Café, Congresbury

Friday 21st November from 10:00 to 11:00 at The Note Warehouse, Yatton

Friday 21st November from 18:00 to 19:00 at The Bell Inn, Banwell

No appointment is necessary –it’s first come, first served. If you can’t come to meet me, I’ll come to see you.

I’ll hold a youth surgery for those aged 12–21 during October half-term. Please contact me to find out more.

Thank you.

TESSA

With KATY BEAUCHAMP

Autumnal flavours to warm you to the core

Bonfire night and the spectacular Somerset Carnival season are upon us and so is the November budget! Who knows what is in store, but here are some simple recipes that won’t break the bank to warm the heart.

SWEET POTATO AND BEETROOT TART

This is a colourful autumnal dish, with earthy flavours.

METHOD

Roll the pastry out to fit a rectangular baking sheet, slightly fold the sides up and blind bake according to pack instructions. Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges, sprinkle with salt and pepper and olive oil and roast at 180˚C until cooked through (25 mins-ish).

Assemble the tart by spreading a thick layer of chilli jam over the pastry. Arrange the sweet potato and beetroot over the top and then scatter over the feta and pine nuts over the top. You can do this the day before. Bake at 180˚C for 15/20 mins before serving.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH ‘N’ CHEESE

A tasty take on traditional mac ‘n’ cheese.

METHOD

Gently fry the onion and then add squash and fry for a further five minutes. Add the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15 mins or until the squash is tender. Pour into a blender and blitz with grated cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir into the cooked macaroni and add fresh chopped sage, turn into an ovenproof dish and bake for 25 mins at 180˚.

INGREDIENTS

1 pack of shortcrust pastry

2 sweet potatoes

Chilli jam or your favourite chutney

200g cooked beetroot, not pickled

100g feta (crumbled)

20g pine nuts

DOUGHNUT CAKES!

Cakes – doughnut-style

METHOD

Mix together yogurt sugar and flour until combined, put a heaped teaspoon of mixture in each muffin case. Put a teaspoon of jam next and then top with the rest of the cake mixture. Bake in the oven at 160˚C for 20 minutes. Whilst they are still hot, sprinkle over some more sugar for that doughnut look!

INGREDIENTS

(Makes 5/6 portions)

500g cubed butternut squash

350ml milk

Small diced onion

150g cheese

350g macaroni

Peas (optional)

Handful of fresh sage

INGREDIENTS

(Makes 10 cakes)

300g full fat Greek yoghurt

125g caster sugar and a little extra for sprinkling

200g Self raising flour 10 teaspoons raspberry jam

Mac ‘n’ cheese – warming at any time

Sweet potato and beetroot tart

A hive of activity

WEST Country Meadery and the Beekeepers Café at Redhill is a hive of local life, buzzing with friendly faces, good food, and a passion for all things bees.

Nestled in the heart of the village at Chancellors Pound, the Meadery is where ancient recipes meet modern creativity. From smooth, traditional meads to adventurous flavours infused with fruits and botanicals, every bottle is crafted with the finest honey, much of it gathered from the owners’ very own West Country hives. Each sip tells the story of their bees, their landscape, and their passion for keeping one of Britain’s oldest drinks alive.

with such diverse topics of interest and has such amazing coverage of small and larger local events –that would otherwise go un-heralded! It’s a total joy, from the excellent pictures capturing a great moment and snapshot of humanity to the encouraging features bringing hope in the restorative efforts of communities and nature’s own recovery. It puts our local free paper to shame in terms of the showcasing of community events and people’s fundraising or community-spirited efforts.

Sarah Crosse

Step next door into the Beekeeper Café, and you’ll find a warm welcome waiting. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast, a freshly brewed coffee, or a slice of homemade cake drizzled with honey, it’s the perfect spot to relax and refuel.

The idea began eight years ago when Rod Jenkins bought his wife, Tracey, a bee suit, smoker and two hives as a surprise Christmas present. Tracey said: “As I grew up on a farm at Dundry, his assumption was farmers’ daughters can do anything.”

Rod developed a taste for bee keeping whilst in Zambia as a flying instructor at Victoria Falls. His maintenance and repair skills have been put to good use making bee hives.

The couple offer bee experiences, where you can put a bee suit on and come into the apiaries and meet the queens and see bees hatching.

Tracey added: “The Beekeepers Café is a great place to meet up, start your bee experience or collect your bees and hive, or just enjoy the view of the Mendips whilst enjoying a barista coffee, selection of teas, slice of cake, bacon bap or but some local honey products.”

Apple Day in Blagdon

THIS year’s Apple Day in Blagdon was held two weeks earlier than usual and saw a good turn-out for Blagdon Orchard Group in Eldred’s Orchard in the village.

Group chair, Suzanne Wynn, said juice made from Bramleys was a surprising hit because of the high sugar content this year.

She said: “It was a tiring but very rewarding day. The children loved the apple juice and kept coming back for more. There was a constant stream of visitors right to the end.”

The official Apple Day in the UK is October 21st.

The meadery and café at Redhill

WILD FOOD

Year of the mast

APPARENTLY, this year is a “mast year.”

We are not talking anything nautical. It’s not just the nuts of the beech tree known as masts that are produced in overabundance (although they lend a name to the phenomenon), it describes a year where there is a bumper harvest of fruits, nuts and fungi.

According to some, a mast year occurs every four years but from experience I’m a little sceptical about this rather neat timeframe, so decided to check my records and do some research.

To confuse matters, beech masts seem to be on a cycle of every three to five years, yet experts believe even this can be up to eight years. The first time I wrote about beech masts was in 2014, an abundant year for them.

Some sources point to 2020 being a mast year or was it just good for masts? The last official mast year was 2022, the weather was so good I was picking wild strawberries in May and had one of the best mushroom seasons.

Hmm, as suspected, not completely consistent with four years but what makes this a proper mast year is the sheer volume of production of fruit, nuts and fungi from pretty much all species, not just a few.

One of the most interesting features of a mast year is overproduction – why create much more than animals (and foragers!) can possibly eat? Put simply, it is a survival strategy employed to increase the chances of a successful reproduction cycle and continuation of the species.

Of course, along with the good weather, a higher volume of food can lead to an increase in animal populations to take advantage of the overabundance. Sadly, the less productive years that follow can make it hard for survival. I suppose it is an existential struggle we all might benefit to ponder.

It is difficult to capture in one image the staggering volume of production in this year of the mast. I will leave you with a picture that hopefully tells the story.

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

Preparing for spring

THEdull days of November are a launching pad for spring, an opportunity to set up your space for next year. Then you will find it so much easier to succeed next March and April, with new seeds and plants. It's no good to step outside in spring and start from scratch at that point. You will find you're always behind throughout the year. Start now!

Broad beans and garlic excepted, it’s too late to make new sowings and plantings. November is potentially a time of some abundance, but if you did not find time for those new plantings in summer, the vegetable garden can look empty and depressing.

If that is the case, there's probably a fair few weeds. Be on it! Either remove them by hand if there's not too many, or cover thick weeds with cardboard, then on top of that spread 5cm compost of any kind. That could be old woodchip, well-rotted animal manure, or your own compost, even if imperfect looking. Old tree leaves work nicely at this time, even new ones if you have no leaf mould. There is no need to sieve any of this because winter frosts will make the lumps open as they freeze. That leaves you with a lovely soft and even surface next spring, after you rake it shallowly in early March.

The soil of your pathways also will benefit from spreading organic matter of some kind. Paths are easier to maintain when they are weed free so again, lay cardboard and then just 2cm woodchip on top, not too much. Preferably in small pieces and it can be conifer wood, because that does not acidify soil. As fungal threads decompose the wood, soil below will benefit from its extra organic matter.

If you did find time for summer planting and weeding, you can be enjoying leeks, kale, cabbage, beetroot, parsnips, salads and more. As beds become empty after harvests, straightaway spread 3cm compost in readiness for spring. It will be here soon.

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

Savoy cabbage

THEFrankie Howerd Community Hub Cafe in Loxton, which is a registered charity, will be doubling in size in January with the present number of covers expanding from 24 to 48.

Kieran Tanner, The Hub manager and chef, said: “The new Dame June Whitfield Activities Centre will come in to use in January enabling us to double the size of the cafe. We shall also be getting a much bigger new kitchen which will help us cope better with the increasing number of customers.”

Over the past year the cafe has also been helping to cater for the children’s residential centre at nearby Barton and has provided them with more than 1,000 meals.

Kieran said: “At times we get really busy and now, with the expansion, I could do with a helping hand.”

Ideally they are looking for someone who has worked in a commercial catering position and would like to volunteer their experience for a few hours a week.

Kieran said: “We offer a very friendly atmosphere with the opportunity to meet a wide range of locals and tourists who visit the cafe.”

The cafe and community hub are run by The Frankie Howerd OBE Trust.

Details: Kieran 07384 561369 email: frankiehowerdhub@outlook.com

Tess Collingborn and Clare Day

Community Farm under threat

THECommunity Farm above Chew Valley Lake has launched a £50,000 Crowdfunder to avoid closure.

For 15 years the farm has been a haven for wildlife and people alike, growing climate-friendly food, restoring nature and creating a space where people can connect with nature.

But it says it is now at risk due to a sharp drop in grant funding available to support their environmental and social work.

Last year alone, the farm had more than 3,500 visits from a diverse range of people including school children, refugees, and adults with mental ill health. The farm also delivers organic food to more than 500 local homes every week.

Tom Richardson, co-managing director of the farm, said: “We have worked tirelessly with our community to transform empty fields into a thriving landscape of organic crops, abundant wildlife, and inspiring spaces for people to connect with nature and each other.

“Without support, this could now all be lost. The need for naturefriendly farming and access to nutritious food is greater than ever.”

The farm’s crowdfunder is being match-funded by Aviva, doubling the value of any donations it receives before the end of November.

Wells shows its foodie side

THOUSANDS of visitors packed Wells for its annual food festival, attracted by the sights, sounds – and smells – of more than 200 stalls run by artisan producers and vendors.

For the first time, stalls extended to the front of Wells Cathedral and in nearby Sadler Street with the focus on the High Street, Market Square, the moat around the Bishop’s Palace and the Recreation Ground.

So much to choose from!

Stopping for food in the Market Square

Autumn colours above the stalls that lined the moat

Hands-on fun in Little Joe’s Kitchen

Local singer/songwriter Sam Evans was amongst the life performers

Mendip Times food and drink contributor Charles Dowding

Stalls in front of the cathedral

Roxy and Mike, from the Shepton Mallet Community Fridge in the Food for Thought marquee

Sculpture sale with grand designs in mind

THE winter months are the time when sculptor Ian Marlow prepares the new pieces of work for the forthcoming year’s exhibitions.

Those exhibitions start around Easter time but the sculptures need to be ready well in advance as they require the information and images to catalogue them, so Ian’s studios in his garden at Buckland Dinham will be bursting with new designs and sculptures during the coming months.

As if that wasn’t enough, he is also planning major building works next year, adding an extension to his home, the former village chapel. The construction work will encroach on the garden where he displays his sculptures so to ease that pressure and make way for the scaffolding and building materials he has decided to have a special exhibition sale in early November.

It will be his last exhibition for this year and, as a special bonus, most sculptures will be massively reduced in price. Ian said: “Apart from creating space for the building work, it will be the perfect opportunity for everyone to buy the sculpture that they – or another special person – have always wanted.”

The exhibition is at The Sculpture Garden and Studio, Ebenezer Chapel, Buckland Dinham, BA11 2QT and runs

from Saturday, November 10th to Saturday, November 15th and will be open each day from 10am-4pm.

Ebenezer Chapel with extension design. Illustration by Chris Fothergill FSAI

Crafty villagers display their skills

RESIDENTS of Leigh-on-Mendip staged their annual arts and crafts show in the village’s Memorial Hall – with plenty of homemade cakes and savouries on sale.

Several hundred people visited the two-day event, which helped raised funds for local events.

New members welcome

BLAGDONArt Group is inviting others to join their groups, which meet every Thursday in St Andrew’s Church, one from 10am-12.30pm and the other 1pm-3.30pm.

Some of the members are pictured at the recent Chew Valley Arts Trail (l to r) Mo Taylor, Freddie Ansell, Jeff Martin, Margaret Avery and Alison Gibson.

Details: Margaret Avery 07725 056051

Blagdon bunny

BLAGDONArt Group member Rose Carter’s painting of a “fluffy bunny” was voted the favourite by visitors to Blagdon Church for the Chew Valley Arts Trail.

Organiser, Sandy Bell, said: “It was another very successful Arts Trail with lots of positive feedback. One local visitor told me that they thought we probably didn’t realise just what an amazing event it was for the whole Valley and the hundreds of people who thoroughly enjoyed being out and about and speaking to the artists face to face."

l See P26.

Ali Turner wearing a crocheted cardigan she made herself and some of her mixed-media geometric artworks

Caroline (left) and Eddie in the Art Café kitchen

Chew Valley Arts Trail

Susanne Casselden (right) and Sally Rey

Martha Fear (left) and organiser Sandy Bell

Drew Forsythe

Annabel Rose with Sylvie, 10, and their dog Albus

Rob Taylor

Natasha Clutterbuck

Jonquil Anderson

The pen is mightier than the keyboard

IN an age dominated by smartphones and keyboards, one might imagine the pen has lost its appeal. Yet, step into an auction house or browse through an online catalogue and you will find that pens remain objects of fascination and desire. Collectors and everyday buyers are all drawn to these writing instruments, not simply for their utility but for their craftsmanship and design.

Among the most captivating names for enthusiasts is Dunhill-Namiki, a collaboration between Alfred Dunhill and Namiki of Japan that flourished in the 1930s. These pens are celebrated for their exquisite maki-e decoration, applied by

skilled Japanese craftsman. Each design is painstakingly crafted, often depicting natural motifs such as birds, flowers or landscapes.

Examples of Dunhill-Namiki pens are popular and when they appear at auction, they can command high prices, with an example selling over-estimate at Clevedon Salerooms of £3,600.

Alongside these rarities, Montblanc remains a cornerstone of the luxury pen market. Its Meisterstück range is regarded as a benchmark of fine writing design, admired for both function and prestige. Collectors pay particularly close attention to special and limited editions, which regularly attract competitive bidding.

Cartier pens are equally admired with their guilloché finishes, precious metals, and occasional gem-set details, Cartier pens hold wide appeal for collectors of

both fine jewellery and luxury accessories.

Material value also plays its part. A 9ct gold pen combines intrinsic worth with lasting appeal. The weight of gold adds a high value, resulting in their dual identity as both collectable and investment piece, which makes them popular in the saleroom.

Condition and provenance remain central to desirability. Original boxes, certificates and careful preservation significantly enhance value.

As the festive season approaches, pens take on even greater allure. They make the perfect Christmas gift, combining elegance with practicality. For those considering selling, the best time to consign is ahead of the December 4th pre-Christmas sale, when demand peaks for unique and meaningful presents.

With HENRY MICHALLAT

Entries now open for Montblanc, Cartier and other pens for the December 4th Winter Specialist Sale

Rain didn’t stop play

THE annual Witham Friary Conker Championships went ahead despite continual heavy rain throughout the afternoon.

For the first time in its history, the final was a three-way contest, won by former village resident Gywn, a film student now living in Bruton.

The competition, held at its traditional venue of the Seymour Arms, was organised by the village’s conker committee and raised funds for local good causes.

New town crier

WELLSCity Council has announced the appointment of former Coldstream Guard, Philip Dickson, as the city’s new Town Crier.

He’s taking over from Len Sweales, town crier for 25 years, who has announced he will retire when he is 80 next May.

The Mayor of Wells, Cllr Louis Agabani, said: “We are deeply grateful to Len for his dedication, energy, and unmistakable voice that has echoed through our city for a quarter of a century. His service has brought life and ceremony to every civic occasion.”

Mendip Connections

ARE you part of a group working on wildlife, heritage, or access projects in the Mendip Hills? Or maybe you're just thinking about starting one? Whether you're looking for funding, volunteers, or just some inspiration – Mendip Connections is the place to be!

Join us for a relaxed and friendly gathering at Shipham Village Hall on Saturday, November 29th, 10am-1pm. It’s completely free, and there’ll be refreshments to keep you going while you chat, connect, and explore.

Charlie Fayers from A Patch Wilder will be speaking at the event. Charlie will share the incredible journey of turning a piece of land into a thriving nature reserve – and the exciting discovery of a rare pine marten on site! We have another exciting speaker that will be announced soon.

Lots of groups will have a display at the event including The Mendip Society, The Trails Trust, Westbury Society, Somerset

Wildlife Trust and lots of information from the Mendip Hills National Landscape Team.

Groups are invited to bring a display to showcase their work, but you’re just as welcome to come along without one. It’s all about making connections, sharing ideas, and celebrating the amazing things happening across the Mendips.

Jim Hardcastle, from the Mendip Hills National Landscape Team, said: “The ecosystem of people is vital on the Mendip Hills to help look after the place. There are lots of pockets of great work happening and we want to help them connect with other like-minded people.

“Let’s get all the groups who are doing amazing projects together to share ideas and inspiration. But it’s also for people that want to know what’s going on and maybe offer some help. Let’s connect, collaborate, and keep Mendip wild, wonderful, and welcoming!”

Gywn and conker committee members

All ages were welcome to compete

Preserving water on Mendip

DID you know that the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) grant programme helps “slow the flow” of water on the Mendip Hills by funding Natural Flood Management techniques? Working with natural processes to reduce flood and coastal erosion risk involves implementing measures that help to protect, restore and emulate the natural functions of catchments, floodplains, rivers and the coast.

This takes many different forms and can be applied in urban and rural areas and on rivers, estuaries and coasts. On Mendip we need to focus on slowing the rain being absorbed into the soil and then keeping it in the soil for as long as possible.

There are some relatively simple yet effective actions that can be taken to increase water storage in the landscape and reduce flood risk, such as planting trees and hedgerows along the contours, restoring ponds and improving soil structure on farms.

These are all great ways to retain and slow down water; they also happen to be activities that can be funded by our FiPL grants.

This programme is proud to have recently approved match funding for a Bristol Avon Rivers Trust project at

Beaconsfield Farm to restore and plant hedgerows above Molly Brook, which flows into Chew Valley Lake.

The element of the project we funded will focus on grassland restoration which will allow the landscape to soak up more water, capture carbon and reduce the impact of drought.

We are still accepting applications, so if you are interested to see what actions are recommended in your area, email us for advice on applying at FiPL@mendiphills-nl.org.uk

(Photograph courtesy of Lucy Masters)

Time to reflect

ASsummer comes to an end, the work doesn’t stop at Aldwick Estate at the base of the Mendip Hills, it only changes. With harvest complete for another year, focus turns elsewhere on the estate.

The last crates are unloaded into the back of the trailer. The final few tonnes of grapes are sent down the winding lanes, over the Mendips, to Shepton Mallet. The winemaking process begins as another year in the vineyard is completed.

As this year’s crop is sent to be made into future vintages, it allows a moment on the Estate for reflection. 2025 marks the 14th harvest from the vineyard, planted by my uncle, Chris Watts, back in 2008.

Sadly, Chris passed away in 2011 but had he seen (and drank) the fruits of the labour that have been put into the vineyard over the past 17 years, I believe it would have been beyond what he could have ever imagined. 2025 has been a successful vintage, the long warm summer days have resulted in high sugars and quality fruit. Our earliest harvest ever since the vines were planted. It also allows me to think about all the work that went on long before. Work done by generations of my family and the amazing people they were surrounded by. Seeing this year’s harvest only highlighted to me that the dedication and hard work of the team here at Aldwick Estate carries on and the yearly process starts all over again.

Beyond the vineyard, work continues over the 300 acres of farmland. In line with the government’s Sustainable Farming Incentive and as part of our commitment to farming, we seek to improve our practices in a way that gives back to the land that has given so much to us.

As vineyard tours come to an end and vintages of past harvests are returning, the focus in the venue turns to winter weddings, Christmas fairs and parties, before a short, but well-earned break.

As summer turns to autumn and autumn to winter, this new monthly column will share with you, the reader, an insight into the life and work of Aldwick Estate through the seasons.

Support for wildlife

SOMERSETWildlife Trust has unveiled a new corporate membership scheme to support its work, with prices starting at £250. The trust is also encouraging businesses to make naturefriendly decisions, ensuring their own on-site operations are more sustainable.

Details: www.somersetwildlife.org/corporatemembership-benefits

Air bnb’s (bedding and towels) • Sports kits

Self-service washing/drying available 7 days a week

All enquiries contact Colette on 07782 222661 Free pickup/delivery within 6-mile radius

With OLIVER LUCK

3 Chesterfield House, High Street, Midsomer Norton BA3 2DD

Financial remedies and coercive control in divorce

INrecent years, English family law has increasingly recognised the damaging impact of coercive and controlling behaviour within marriage. While the criminal law now expressly prohibits “controlling or coercive behaviour” under the Serious Crime Act 2015, the civil courts also have tools to protect individuals whose financial decisions during marriage or divorce may have been distorted by such abuse.

Coercion does not always involve physical violence. Many spouses suffer economic abuse: being forced to hand over wages, excluded from household finances, pressured into disadvantageous financial arrangements or being subjected to “gaslighting” (a form of psychological manipulation intended to make the victim doubt their own perception, memory or judgement).

In the divorce context, this can affect the fairness of financial remedy outcomes if one party has signed away rights under pressure or entered into agreements they did not truly consent to. Here are some potentially available remedies:

(a) Challenging a Financial Remedy Order. If in the course of a divorce a financial order was made by consent, but one party’s agreement was procured through coercion or undue influence, the order may be challenged. The case of Edgar v Edgar established that agreements reached in the shadow of divorce can be set aside if the

circumstances reveal pressure, exploitation, or failure to give full disclosure.

More recently, the Supreme Court reinforced the principle that fraud, misrepresentation, or lack of proper consent can undermine an order. Where coercion can be evidenced, an application may be made to set aside the order, supported by evidence of the abusive dynamics and their impact on decisionmaking.

(b) Non-molestation and occupation orders: Alongside financial claims, victims of coercive control may apply for protective injunctions under Part IV of the Family Law Act 1996. Non-molestation orders can restrain intimidation or harassment, while occupation orders can regulate who lives in the matrimonial home. These orders can create breathing space for the abused spouse to make independent financial decisions without fear of further coercion.

(c) Financial Remedy Proceedings Under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973: Even if no order has yet been made, evidence of coercion is highly relevant when the court exercises its discretion in financial remedy cases. The court must assess the parties’ conduct and needs. Demonstrating that one spouse deliberately deprived the other of financial autonomy or pressured them into disadvantageous choices can support arguments for a larger share of capital or ongoing maintenance.

(d) Setting Aside Transactions: In extreme cases, transactions entered into during the marriage – for example, transferring property or savings under pressure – may be challenged on grounds of undue influence or lack of informed consent. Equity has long intervened where a party’s free will has been overborne and family courts can deploy these principles to prevent unjust enrichment through coercion.

Anyone who believes coercive control has affected their financial rights should:

• Seek legal advice promptly, as delay can prejudice applications

• Gather evidence (texts, emails, witness accounts, financial records).

EDWARD

LYONS

Nurture Vets –proudly independent for more than 50 years

AT a time when many veterinary practices are being bought by large corporate groups, Nurture remains proudly independent.

The practice has been caring for pets in Wells for more than 50 years and, for the past 19, has been developed under the guidance of local vet Charlie Moore. Since becoming a partner in Westfield Vets in 2012, Charlie’s focus has been on continually improving and expanding the facilities to deliver outstanding, personal veterinary care.

Being independent, it means decisions are made in the best interest of its patients and team — driven by its staff and not dictated by external investors.

In 2021, the practice expanded by acquiring a second site in Weston-super-Mare, formerly Summer Lane Vets. With this expansion, both sites came together under a new name and shared vision: Nurture.

The name reflects both its upgraded facilities and, more importantly, its ethos — to nurture and care for the pets and people in their communities, actively supporting local events and hosting open days each September, in partnership with local charities.

As your local independent vets, Nurture Wells is proud to be an

RCVS-accredited veterinary hospital — offering the full range of services you’d expect from a true hospital setting, including 24/7 emergency care, on-site overnight nursing, advanced diagnostics and treatment options.

The same friendly staff you see during the day are the same qualified professionals providing care out of hours. We are the only on-site, on-call veterinary team in Wells. They offer a wide range of advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive procedures, including ultrasound, endoscopy, digital and dental X-rays, keyhole (laparoscopic) spays and surgery. These techniques mean shorter procedures, less discomfort, reduced risk, and faster recovery times for your pets.

Whether you’re at Nurture Vet Hospital in Wells or visiting their Weston site, you’ll have access to hospital-level care, including referral to Langford Vet Hospital when needed — ensuring continuity and top-tier service.

The Wells team

The team at Weston-super-Mare

Having fun with Mendip Dog Agility at the open day in Wells

One of the charity stalls at the open day in Wells

The open day raised £336 for the Cinnamon Trust, the charity which provides support for the elderly and/or terminally ill with their pets

• Neutering

• Pet Health Club

• Microchips and Vaccinations

• Dental Treatments

• Medical consultations and surgery

To book call 01761 412132 or visit our website: www.midsomervets.co.uk

53 North Road, MIdsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2QE

•Specialist scaffolding for unique or challenging construction projects.

•Domestic scaffolding for home maintenance or renovation work.

•Commercial scaffolding to include temporary structures on larger buildings like office blocks and industrial facilities.

Choosing solar the right way: Sunlit Solar leads the charge in Somerset

AS energy prices continue to climb and environmental concerns grow, solar power is becoming an increasingly attractive option for homeowners and businesses. But while the benefits of renewable energy are clear, selecting the right installer can make all the difference. That’s where Sunlit Solar stands out.

A family-run business rooted in Somerset, Sunlit Solar brings over two decades of experience in designing and installing bespoke solar systems. Unlike large national firms that often outsource work and move on once the job is complete, Sunlit Solar offers a more personal, consultative approach, one that prioritises transparency and customer care.

The company actively encourages prospective clients to seek multiple quotes and ask questions, believing that informed decisions lead to better outcomes.

Mike Rogers, founder and MD,

explained: “What may appear similar on paper can differ significantly in quality, performance and long-term value.”

Sunlit Solar’s team is always ready to walk customers through those differences, ensuring clarity and confidence at every stage.

Each solar system installed by Sunlit Solar is custom-built using high-quality components designed for durability and reliability. Their engineers take pride in delivering installations that stand the test of

time.

From initial consultations to postinstallation support, Sunlit Solar’s dedicated local office team remains closely involved. They provide clear, tailored quotes, explain how solar technology works and offer ongoing assistance long after the panels are up and running.

Beyond their technical expertise, Sunlit Solar is deeply embedded in the local community. The company regularly sponsors local events and collaborates with organisations that share its values, reinforcing its role as a trusted local partner.

Mike’s fellow director (and sister), Emily Mulliner, said: “At Sunlit Solar, we’re not just about selling renewable energy, it’s about emPOWERing our customers with the knowledge, confidence and support they need to make the most of their solar journey.”

The farm redefining turkey!

DIDyou know that in the heart of the Chew Valley, there’s a small, family farm redefining Christmas turkeys? At the centre of many Christmas tables lies a beautiful roast – and there’s no better choice than the meats from Nempnett Pastures.

This family-run farm takes pride in producing meat through farming systems that are truly inspired by nature.

Their turkeys live completely outdoors in mobile “Gobbledegos” (as they like to call them) – clever roosting shelters designed to mimic how wild turkeys would naturally perch in trees. These are moved regularly to fresh pasture, allowing the birds to live freely in the open air – yes, even at night!

Protected by loyal livestock guardian dogs, the turkeys enjoy an unrivalled quality of life. The result? A bird with incredible flavour and texture – lean yet juicy, with depth and richness that only truly pasture-raised poultry can deliver.

Their chickens are raised in much the same way, roaming the fields in mobile “chicken tractors” that are moved to fresh grass every day. Living entirely outdoors, these birds develop

a beautiful golden colour from the diverse pastures they forage on and offer the kind of taste many say chicken used to have.

For smaller gatherings, Nempnett Pastures also offers a wonderful alternative – pasture-raised cockerels. Bursting with flavour and perfect for an intimate festive feast, they make a special centrepiece without the size of a full turkey.

And it’s not just poultry. Nempnett Pastures also produces 100% grass-fed beef, raised slowly on native pastures that reflect the farm’s natural landscape. The cattle graze through the growing months and are fed only grass and forage through winter.

This careful, pasture-based approach produces beef that’s rich in flavour, beautifully textured, with naturally higher omega-3s and other beneficial nutrients.

This Christmas, make a conscious choice. By choosing Nempnett Pastures, you’re not only serving food that’s guaranteed to impress – you’re supporting a local farm dedicated to ethical, sustainable, and regenerative farming practices.

Details: www.NempnettPastures.co.uk or follow them on social media to discover the story – and the flavour –behind their remarkable meat

Approaching the end of another great year

THISis the time when I start to reflect on how the year has gone for our business, and I am delighted to say that I can sum it up in just one word – Success, with a capital ‘S’.

Don’t think that’s an idle boast, because it’s based on the solid statistics provided by the major property portals, which record things like the number of instructions and sales. By any measurement you care to mention, we are head and shoulders ahead of any other agent in the Chew Valley.

That result hasn’t come about by accident. It has taken a lot of hard work and great care about every element of the process, from the staging of a property, through the photography, the lay-out and functionality of our top-class website.

It is obviously satisfying to be top of the league, but for me it’s only part of the story. My greatest pleasure is knowing that my team has helped so many people through the sometimes emotional process of selling their home and buying a new property.

We take huge pride in getting to know our clients and we take time to really get under the skin of their properties, so that we can present them in the best way possible. That means when it comes to a viewing, we don’t just provide a basic black and white description but rather present a vivid technicolour vision of the lifestyle that a purchaser will be able to enjoy when they move in.

We regularly receive glowing reviews from clients who have

greatly appreciated how we have helped them every step of the way, providing an informed, personal service and always being willing to go the extra mile if that is what’s needed to get them moving. We keep an eye on every element of the process and we are prepared to step in to deal with any unexpected eventualities.

Another element which I always value highly is being a part of the local community, supporting good causes when we can, getting involved in Valley life and singing the praises of our businesses. There’s no getting away from the fact that we are living through challenging times, so it’s never been more important to work together, supporting each other in ways which will benefit everyone.

You can be sure that we will continue to do our best every single day, and to apply our watchwords of “Dedication, Imagination and Delivery” to ensure the best possible outcome in every transaction. Why don’t you call us today and share the sweet smell of success?

Fringe festival’s final weeks

THEChew Valley is buzzing with fun as this year’s Valley Arts Fringe Festival continues to delight audiences with its mix of music, comedy, theatre and family shows. After opening to a wonderful reception from local audiences, the festival now enters its final weeks but there’s still plenty more magic to come with November promising even more first-rate entertainment.

First up, a hilarious dose of espionage mayhem in Bond – An Unauthorised Parody! on Friday November 7th, 8pm in Bishop Sutton. Internationally acclaimed performer Gavin Robertson takes aim at 007 himself, in a high-octane, cartoon-style solo adventure that explodes every Bond cliché imaginable.

Next, on Friday, November 14th, at 8pm in Chew Magna, Mia Borthwick’s one-woman musical comedy I Don’t Have a Maths GCSE takes to the stage. Through songs and sharp humour, Mia transforms her struggles with dyscalculia into an empowering and laugh-out-loud exploration of self-worth and creativity.

The music lineup is equally impressive this year with Valley Arts securing performances from top tier hometown talent Lady Nade, who grew up in Dundry. She will take to the stage with her full band on Saturday, November 15th, 7.30pm in Bishop Sutton. With her soulful voice and heartfelt Americana sound, Lady Nade has earned national recognition, including Song of the Year at the UK Americana Awards.

Rounding out the month is a performance from Bristol Ensemble with City Breaks, on Friday, November 21st, 7.30pm in Chew Magna. This unique concert takes audiences on a musical journey through Europe’s great capitals, from the lively streets of Madrid to the elegance of Paris and the charm of London.

As the festival draws to a close, the energy and creativity flowing through the Valley show no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a fan of side-splitting comedy, captivating storytelling or live music that moves the soul, there’s still time to join the fun and celebrate the magic of the Fringe.

Tickets and full listings are available online at www.valleyarts.co.uk. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this very special 10th anniversary year.

Warmth and hospitality at The Queens

NESTLEDin the heart of Chew Magna, just a short drive from Bristol, The Queens is a much-loved familyowned pub combining relaxed countryside charm with exceptional food and drink.

Recently awarded one AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence for the second year running, it’s known for its seasonal, flavourful menus that champion local produce and reimagine classic pub favourites.

Alongside the food, guests can enjoy a well curated drinks list featuring local beers, fine wines and expertly crafted cocktails; all served with the warmth and hospitality the Queens is known for.

With a handful of beautifully appointed rooms upstairs, it’s the perfect place to unwind, whether you’re dropping in for a Sunday roast, enjoying a long lunch, or planning a peaceful weekend escape.

Your local printer

GENI Printing, based in Chew Stoke, prides itself in providing a high-quality in-house design, print and publishing service. Always conscious of competition, Geni takes every effort to keep prices affordable.

Established for over 50 years, the business naturally has many customers, many of whom have enjoyed Geni’s excellent service and customer support over the years.

Their specialities include paperback and hard back books, newsletters, wedding and funeral stationery, brochures, leaflets, programmes, posters, greetings cards, labels, frozen food sleeves, tickets and invitations. They also specialise in printing exercise and year books for schools both local and further afield.

They offer a wide range of various stocks, including silk, textured, linen, satin, pinstripe, hammer, pearlescent and parchment paper and card. Recycled stocks are frequently used.

“State of the art” Konica Minolta digital colour presses ensure a 1300 dpi, high resolution print quality. All inks are vegetable based. Wide format printing and signage is also available.

Local insurer champions the Jessie May Trust

NFUMutual agents and their staff at the North Somerset and Chew Valley agency have nominated local charity, the Jessie May Trust, to receive a donation of £7,899 from NFU Mutual’s national £2.33million “Agency Giving Fund”.

The leading rural insurer launched this fund, now in its sixth year, to help local frontline charities across the country. The Agency Giving Fund forms part of NFU Mutual’s £4million funding pledge for both local and national charities in 2025, to support frontline services in rural communities.

To ensure these donations reach all corners of the UK and are directed to where they’re needed most, all NFU Mutual Agencies, with more than 280 offices nationwide, have been given the opportunity to nominate local charities to receive a share of the fund.

This donation has enabled The Jessie May Trust to fund a year’s worth of nursing support for two families and then five visits for another family.

Daniel Cheesman, CEO Jessie May, Children’s Hospice at Home, commented: “We’re so grateful to the North Somerset and Chew Valley agency of NFU Mutual for nominating our charity to

receive a donation from the NFU Mutual Agency Giving Fund.

“This generous donation will help us provide essential care at home for children with complex needs and their families so that exhausted parents can take a break, siblings can spend time together and children can be children.”

Joel Hawkins, agent at NFU Mutual North Somerset and Chew Valley agency, said: “We’re extremely proud to have nominated the Jessie May Trust for this donation and are delighted to be able to support the vital contribution they make to our community.

“The purpose of NFU Mutual’s Agency Giving Fund is to support local frontline charities who are providing essential services to people in our community and our agency feel that Jessie May was a very deserving cause to champion.”

A feast of fun at Pilton Tithe Barn

DOZENSof people enjoyed the annual Michaelmas Feast at Pilton’s historic Tithe Barn hosted by Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis.

Many of the guests wore period dress for the event, which included live music and performances from a juggler, magician and slackline walker.

Michael Eavis (centre) and guests on the top table at the feast. In the background are members of the Curious Littlebigband

The evening raised funds towards the upkeep of the tithe barn, built in the 14th Century to hold produce for Glastonbury Abbey and now run by a charitable trust.

Juggler Haggis McLeod

Slack rope performer Lindsay Hurd (stage name Kwabana Lindsay) inside the historic barn

Dressing for dinner – guests at the feast

Pilton resident Steve Tofts as the Green Man

Magician Laura London and members of the band Dinner is served

The power of the edge

By CHRIS SPERRING MBE

ROUGH grassland margins are not rewilding, instead they should be edges of fields left uncut for a period of time but which will still need managing to keep their value for a whole range of differing species.

The beauty of the margin is that it will allow the farmers to create a wildlife area but still do what they do best, and that’s farming, aka putting food on our table.

For as far back as I can recall I’ve been advocating the creation of margins around the edges of field systems. These are wilder grassy edges to either arable or grazing field. Many of you will, of course, know that we if we take a woodland as an example, then it is the edge of the woodland that holds the most biodiversity, meaning that the mixture of mature trees giving way to scrubland and then grassland holds a very rich and varied variety of flowering plants, insects, birds and mammals.

The grassland margin that I advocate is the state of grass just prior to it naturally succeeding to scrub, so it will have been left to grow for probably a couple of years or indeed longer in some cases.

Barn owls are an obvious species that benefit from these rough grasslands; the reason being that it’s this part of the cycle of natural succession that contains most of the small mammals that the owls consume. The short-tailed vole is a small variety of vole which prefers open grassland areas. Unlike its close relative the bank vole it prefers not to burrow underground but instead creates a vast array of interconnecting surface tunnels, using the long grass as its cover.

And cover it really does need. Foxes, badgers, weasels, stoats, crows, kestrels, buzzards, red kites, gulls and, of course, the owls all want to feast on them. But it’s a numbers game and if it has the right habitat then you could throw all of these predators at it and still the number would not be dented. These voles can turn their populations round very quickly as they are fast breeders.

I could fill this article and more just talking about the benefits of these margins for key species like the vole, however there’s so much else that will live in, on and around, this rough grassland paradise.

Butterflies such as marbled white, ringlet, skippers, wall and more have been noted as benefiting from these grassy margins. Indeed, if allowed to stay long for winter, butterfly eggs laid in the long grass are likely to be away from severe frost level, meaning more will be available to become active during the spring.

Just parting the grass in these margins and looking down to the base reveals an incredible density and variety of other insects, the giveaway for this is the amount of insect predators that you can see.

Spiders are seemingly everywhere and, of course, this density of predators once again indicates the obvious bountiful supply of food, a proportion of these will be the flying insects, and some will be nocturnal, so, during the warmth of a summer evening, these insects will lift off from the margin into the air where another predator is waiting, and these will be the bats. One of the species I’ve observed many times hunting over margins is the noctule bat but of course there are many more bat species that will also hunt the margins of long grass.

Lastly the grass itself can be food for so much, and not just the vole. Some species of birds, such as the now red-listed linnet and skylark are both noted in winter as feeding on the seed heads of cocks foot grass and of course grassy margins that are allowed to stay long in the winter will be scattered with this grass species. So it’s the winter when many bird species and small mammals such as the tiny harvest mouse can continue to feed and prosper during the colder months.

I have been inspired to write this because of the interest from farmers, and by the now I will have already carried out the first of a series of day-long workshops on rough grassland margins for farmers in Dorset, this one being organised by the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group.

I’m still doing the owl watching evenings. You book these through me direct, for your group, or even as a Christmas or birthday present. Also, if your group or club would like an evening talk on a variety of subjects within the world of natural history, then please contact me directly also.

The marbled white butterfly

A typical rough grassland margin

Watch out for the dragon!

MY circle this month is a shortish one in the beautiful quiet countryside above Croscombe and Dinder villages, betwixt Wells and Shepton Mallet, using field footpaths and good tracks, with a little lane walking. En-route is one stone stile and it is worth noting that the route includes quite an uphill stretch from Dinder, which gets us up on top to enjoy the high country and some views. Some of the fields on the hill were worked during the Iron Age by settlers. Now the

hill is home to a huge solar installation. And in pretty Dinder learn about the link with a fearsome dragon!

PARK: In the Fayreway, Croscombe which is at the top of the village. Go up Church Street, past the church, and, at a staggered junction, turn left on the Fayreway. There should be room for parking along here.

START: Croscombe grew up as a flourishing wool trade centre in the 16th and 17th centuries, leading to many buildings being constructed and the church being significantly altered.

During the Industrial Revolution, the economy shifted to silk, mining, and quarrying, with mills powered by the River Sheppey.

Continue along the Fayreway, passing the village hall. At the side of the letter box and seat take the public footpath on the right straight across the field. This field footpath runs parallel to the Wells to Shepton Mallet road below. Cross the next field, getting closer to Dinder village. Come onto a lane – it could be muddy round the exit. I am not recommending going straight across the next two fields as the gates were very difficult to open and it was all rather muddy. Instead, turn left on the road and then right at the T-junction. This quiet

route brings you along past Dinder’s old picturesque cottages and the stream.

1. DINDER

Along this street, the river has been partially diverted to form a wide leat of running water in which the village people were able to dip their buckets and this makes a picturesque foreground for a row of 16th century gabled cottages, two farmhouses and the Victorian school building. Also here is a former public house which still displays the sign of “The Dragon on the Wheel”, being the crest of the local squire, Somerville. The connection between a dragon and Dinder goes back for centuries. Apparently a terrible dragon was terrorising both livestock and villagers. The then Bishop Jocelin was called upon to save the people of Dinder. He rode out with his men at arms, but at the last furlong commanded them to remain at a distance while he rode on and single-handedly beheaded the beast. Every 50 years since then a celebration of the slaying of the dragon has been held. The legend says that should this tradition be forgotten and the slaying not be re-enacted by a left-handed man of the cloth the dragon may return. There is a mosaic depicting the story made by the children of nearby Wells and Dinder set in stone on the perimeter walk of the Bishop's Palace in Wells.

With Sue Gearing

Turn right at the end with Dinder House opposite, once the seat of the Somerville family. Then turn left. Arrive at the beautiful lychgate to the church in memory of Ellen Somerville. Bend right on the lane and continue up, passing the village hall and a farm.

2. SHARCOMBE PARK

A little later, pass the grand entrance to Sharcombe Park on the right. Follow the stony track straight on and gently up. Take the first track left bringing you on the flat for a while and with some great views across to Wales. After more uphill work enter a field. Cross to the far side where you come onto a path leading into woodland. Go right on the path, climb some more on the edge of the wood and then turn up right.

3. EAST MENDIP WAY

You have joined the East Mendip Way (EMW) long distance path on the edge of King’s Castle Wood. Go through a gate and follow a stony path up, bending left and then right into a field. Go down the full length on this high open field known as Lyatt. There is evidence in the field here of remains of an Iron Age field system worked by settlers from nearby Kings Castle.

Continue on at the end of the field and through into another. A gate at the end brings you onto a hard track straight on. Just before a bend, turn right through a gate still on the EMW.

4. FURZY SLEIGHT

Follow the arrow left all the way across the quaintly named Furzy Sleight. This was another area used by Iron Age settlers. The name is from the Old English for field (sleight) and Furze (gorse) although there doesn’t seem to be much, if any, now.

Over right see Furzy Sleight pill box. This was part of the stop-line of 50 such boxes built as a defence against German invasion in the last war.

At the end continue on along a wide grassy swathe and drop down a stony short path into the valley. Turn sharp right and make your way up a small path up the bank into a field. Go across the field and come onto the lane.

5.

LANE

Cross and take the footpath track immediately opposite. Looking back over to the right, you should be able to see part of the large solar farm. Reach a Bristol Gate on the right and, once through, walk diagonally across the field to a kissing gate. Enjoy good views from this flat plateau – across country, and to Glastonbury Tor. Bear right across this field to a wooden gate on the right side.

Then drop downhill in the field and go through a gate below onto a track.

6. TRACK

Turn left and short way along here find a stone stile on the right. Cross over and there’s a bench seat on the right so you can enjoy the great view over Croscombe village. To finish the walk go straight downhill through two fields and come onto the Fayreway where you started.

l If you want refreshment there is the 16th century inn at Croscombe, down on the main road. The George Inn is a family-owned village pub, recently selected as one of the top eight Somerset pubs this year according to the Beer Expert.

Just under 4 miles, 2.5 hours walking approx • OS Explorer map grid ref: 590 444. Postcode BA5 RJ, what3words:skips.devours.rhino (these are co-ordinates for the village hall which is along the Fayreway).

West Countryman’s diary

OCTOBER and now into November, as the summer slips away behind. Now it’s time for autumnal celebrations and preparations with the darker nights closing in. I hope you remembered about the clocks changing at the end of October. As always there are differing opinions on the subject, but I like the clocks changing. Back in 1969 the Government of the day decided to stay on “summer” all through the year.

I well recall dark mornings and evenings, but the final decision was made to maintain the two-system daylight saving, as children were going to and coming home from school in the dark.

Now is the time to celebrate a good harvest and from my point of view the apples have been good despite a dry summer. Harvest homes have been celebrating and many villages will have had the whole village down to the village or church hall to do so.

I was invited to Burrington Church to say a few words at the Sunday service. A good congregation and enthusiastic singing was rewarded by a fine bread and cheese lunch.

As promised in the last edition, a round-up from the Mendip Hills Ploughing Society’s annual meeting. I’ll not go into too much detail but suffice to say the weather smiled on us! Only a short time before, the North Somerset Society had to cancel their meeting because of the dry conditions.

This was a reversal on the previous year when everyone cancelled because it was too wet. Mendip survived that time as well due to a window in the weather and hard surface trackway onto the site.

If there was ever a need for people carriers it was at this year’s site where the hedging and ploughing were separated. The trailers make it possible for those who are less mobile to get around and see the work in progress. I noted we were down to one horse team, but no steam ploughing this time.

Perhaps the cost of haulage and coal is taking its toll on the steam and certainly the cost of haulage is a big part of the bill for the horses. Not pulling in as many spectators, but still an important part of the day, was the roots and crop section. Beside the serious side of fodder crops for winter, come the novelties such as the heaviest pumpkin and tallest sunflower.

No good day out is complete without food. Whether your choice is a sit-down cold lunch, a stand-up hot burger or bacon sandwich, you could get it here.

Those who come to the Mendip Ploughing match are there because they want to. It means taking a day off work or rearranging your schedule to be there. To those who find the concept of a ploughing competition strange, let me point out this is also a social gathering and a chance to meet up with others that might not have been seen within the last year.

It’s also a celebration of skill, the ploughman’s skill. I could equate it to an art form when the land has all been turned in straight lines to an even depth and with every piece of surface vegetation and litter buried – a complete soil makeover, although there are those who prefer minimum tillage, some heavier soils need the plough to aerate and rejuvenate.

The invention of the plough was second only to the invention of the wheel. Farming has been responsible for our survival and our heritage by releasing us from the daily task of being hunter gatherers. We established civilisation, industry and were able to be better informed through education.

It is therefore important that celebrations such as ploughing matches are maintained to tell the story for future generations. There was another element of match day that was missing this year and that was the schools. Most years we get school visits and the children thoroughly enjoy being taken out of the classroom and into the field.

If you’re involved with schools in any way, why not consider paying us a visit next year and find out about our rural history. Even Charterhouse school in its day was influenced by the ploughing match. Here’s an extract from the school log for February 3rd, 1882:

“A ploughing match at Blagdon today, only nine present at 10am so gave them a holiday” . . . Yes!

The Virginia creeper that grows along my fence is now the brightest crimson in colour and some of the trees are starting to go bronze. I fear both rain and storm that must follow at some stage will bring an end to any spectacular display we might have, but we haven't got there yet.

The trees will play the game of chance this year by hanging onto their leaves as long as possible to build up reserves after a long dry summer. Winter rain is still needed, as one look at Chew Valley Lake will confirm.

There is however plenty of time to come and I will be dreaming about those long hot summer days in the middle of winter.

This month’s picture has been seen before, but I thought it would be nice to show it again. Back in 1974 I’m at work with a two furrow Ransoms semi-digger reversible plough and a Massey-Ferguson 135 multi-power tractor turning in stubble. How times have changed.

Don’t forget you can always email me on: Les.davies@westcountryman.co.uk

With LES DAVIES MBE

Axbridge Blackberry Carnival

Backwell village show

The WI hall hosted community displays, games and a cafe

Admiring Roy Ackrill's model of Nailsea and Backwell station circa 1930

Children learning from the Camera Club display

Winning display

The November garden –keep the colour going

THEREis no need for the November garden to be dull and end of seasonish. There are plenty of plants that perform at this time of year, even though they may not flower and plenty of jobs to be done. Autumn foliage tints have been good this year, as a result of the summer sunshine, in spite of the dry conditions and it is always worth including a few plants noted for their foliage tints to extend the garden season.

My top choice, even for smaller gardens, would be Prunus incisa ‘Kojo-no-mai’, a shrubby cherry with attractive angular twiggy growth, palest pink flowers in March and fiery foliage colours in autumn and Cornus sericea ‘Cardinal’.

This easy shrubby dogwood is noted for its salmon-coloured winter stems, preceded by good foliage tints. Once established it can be hard pruned in late spring, producing four feet or more of new growth for the following winter’s interest.

Fallen leaves are a real asset in the garden, but it is important to remove them from lawns. This is easily done by setting the mower high, thus chopping leaves and adding a small amount of grass clippings. The resulting mix of leaves and clippings can be stored separately from general garden waste and will rapidly turn into wonderful leaf mould.

Once well-rotted and friable this can be added to improve the water holding capacity and texture of the current poor selection of peat-free growing media available for use in pots and containers.

There are an abundance of holly berries and a bumper crop of apples, thanks to the fine weather during flowering in the late spring. Pollination was good, even though there are considerable concerns about the reduction in our pollinating insects. However, it is good late summer weather the year before that enables the plants to ripen the wood and develop an abundance of flower buds. Hopefully, the birds will have plenty to see them through the coming winter months. Beech mast,

conkers and acorns are also in abundance as food for other wildlife.

Firethorns (pyracanthas) are weighed down by their prolific crop of berries. An ideal plant for shade for long-lasting shiny berries is the self-fertile form of Skimmia japonica ‘Temptation’. Plant this compact evergreen in total shade for the best results. Evergreen, ever grey and ever gold plants start to take centre stage as the autumn leaves fall.

Late flowering plants are essential for bees and other insects and one of the best is our common ivy, which attracts a wide range of insects, including late butterflies. The berries that follow also add to the menu for the birds.

Dahlia flowers are coming to the end of their colourful season, but the tubers should not be lifted until after the first frost has blackened their foliage. This is because they develop their tubers during the shorter days of autumn. You may also have noticed that some varieties start to produce single, rather than fully double flowers.

My pick of November flowering plants is a single apricot chrysanthemum called ‘Hillside Apricot’. It is hardy, spreads well and does not need staking, growing to about 18 inches high and so easy to propagate in the spring by pulling off rooted shoots known as “Irishmen’s cuttings”. Every garden should have one.

Gladiolus corms can be lifted to protect against frost damage once the foliage has withered. You will find a new corm has been produced sitting on top of the one you planted, whilst the original one has withered and can be removed.

November is the ideal time to plant tulip bulbs which should be planted four to six inches deep. They like to be cold in the winter but benefit from good drainage. If you find some bulbs, even in late December that you have forgotten to plant, do not worry, pop them in and they will flower, but a tad later than normal.

There is little to be pruned in the autumn except tall shrubs that flower on current season’s growth, such as buddlejas and lavateras. It is best to cut these back by one third to help prevent wind rock.

Some folks like to cut back all

herbaceous perennials in the autumn, but I prefer to leave the seed heads for the birds to feed on. They also add interesting structure in the winter months, especially when touched by a hoar frost.

In the vegetable garden, you might just get away with sowing a green manure on bare ground, such as Italian ryegrass. Covering the soil with vegetation helps to preserve the soil structure from the damaging effects of winter rains and can also reduce erosion. A sowing in early November of winter hardy varieties of broad beans, such as ‘Aduadulce’ will give an early crop.

If you are new to growing Jerusalem artichokes, do not be tempted to harvest them too soon. Like dahlias they produce their tubers as the days shorten. By November you should have a good crop of tubers. They are very hardy and can be left in the ground and harvested as required. Brussel sprouts and sprouting broccoli plants may need to be staked against the winter winds.

While the soil is still relatively warm it is the perfect time to plant new trees and shrubs. They will rapidly produce new roots and establish better than those planted in the spring. Do not forget to check that all tree ties are secure before the winter storms.

Greenhouses should be ventilated, when possible, to keep air circulating. This helps reduce diseases like grey mould that thrive in cool, humid conditions. Finally, clean the glass in your greenhouse to give overwintering plants the best chance. It may seem as if it will only make a small difference but remember “every little helps.”

With MARY PAYNE MBE

Chrysanthemum Hillside Apricot

N O V E M B E R G A R D E N T I P S

• Move plants in pots together so that they protect one another in cold weather.

• Protect tender alpine plants from the cold and wet.

• If you haven’t done it already, trim the dead flower heads off summer and autumn flowering heathers.

• Fork over borders and work into the soil a slow release feed.

• Plant tulip bulbs (if not done already). Urgently plant any other bulbs.

• Check potted bulbs that you are going to force into flower early. Pot up Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) bulbs.

• The winter flowering Cyclamen corm will be arriving from growers this month.

• Check fruit trees for signs of canker.

• Apply Winter Wash to fruit trees and bushes now to control any insect pests that are over-wintering in cracks and crevices.

• Plant cherries, plums, pears, vines, figs, medlar, quince, blackberries, loganberries and lots of other fruits.

• Plant fruit canes and bushes. Fruit bushes, raspberry canes and rhubarb crowns are now in.

• Complete autumn digging in the veg patch, leave the ground rough and let the frost and rain break it up.

• Plant new hedges this month.

• Disconnect your hosepipe from the outside tap, store it and lag the tap to protect it from frost.

Mon-Sat 9am-4pm (Sun 10am-4pm) SERVING

9-11.15am; Sat 9-11am; Sun 10-11am; LUNCH12-2.30pm; AFTERNOON TEAS Tel: 01749 841155

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Snowdrop festival expands

THE Shepton Snowdrop Festival has teamed up with Somerset’s finest snowdrop gardens to create the Great Snowdrop Gardens Trail of Somerset.

Forde Abbey, Dunster, Snowdrop Valley, Hestercombe and East Lambrook Gardens will join the Bishop’s Palace and Yeo Valley Organic Garden, which opened specially for the festival for the last few years and will do so again in 2026.

Kilver Court in Shepton Mallet, will also open for the festival and is another longstanding partner garden and sponsor.

Two privately owned gardens in Wells, each with snowdrops, will open for the first time as part of the festival; one, the garden of a house with medieval origins, and the other, a six-acre garden with great winter interest, sculpture and stunning views of Wells and beyond.

The core festival takes place on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st February. A Garden Experts Panel to ‘Kick start your spring garden’ will feature James Cross, head gardener at the Bishops Palace, Wells; Athur Cole, head of programmes at The Newt and formerly head gardener at Colesbourne Park; Mike Burke, of Castle Gardens, Sherborne and Clare Greenslade, head gardener at Hestercombe Gardens for 18 years.

Festival director Amanda Hirst said: “We’re often asked by visitors where they can see the best snowdrops. I came across another garden trail elsewhere and thought we could do the same but with a focus on snowdrops. We’re very proud that all the special snowdrop gardens in Somerset have joined us.”

James Cross, head gardener at the Bishop’s Palace in Wells with garden writer Abigail Willis, who lives in Castle Cary. Abigail is the author of Secret Gardens of Somerset

Artists and artisans at Middlecombe Nursery

A FASCINATINGnew attraction at Congresbury’s Middlecombe Nursery is their “Arts and Artisans Courtyard”. Enclosing a quirky, seasonally replanted garden, this huddle of purpose-built studios is home to a friendly community of hugely talented artists and makers.

Not only can you buy their beautiful creations you can also watch these clever folks at work – or even commission a special piece.

There are currently five artists in residence, with another two due before Christmas. Among them is ceramic artist Karen Edwards who is well known locally for her stunning frost-proof sculptures and planters.

Michelle at Bella Silver crafts exquisite jewellery from reclaimed silver, whilst Jane Geeson uses vitreous enamel to create gorgeous fine art. Lucinda at Lilacs ’Til Dawn offers a variety of gifts and cards with a botanical twist, and Jennifer Davidson produces original paintings, prints, cards and handpainted scarves.

Christmas Shopping Night

There’s a one-off opportunity to visit Middlecombe at its most festively sparkly on the evening of Tuesday, November 25th, 6-

8pm. Helping to raise funds for Springboard Opportunity Group in Clevedon, the Middlecombe team invite you to join them for a mince pie, mulled wine and a dose of festive cheer. The artists will be open throughout, as will Forget-me-Not Florist who are running their popular wreath making workshops (advance booking only). CUPPA Coffee Shop will also be welcoming visitors, serving hot drinks and cakes.

Carnival capers are underway

THE annual carnival season kicked off in style with processions in Frome and Castle Cary ahead of the main celebrations in November.

Castle Cary and Ansford Carnival Society chairman, Malcolm Wake, said: “It was great to see the community come together for a great night out.

“Entrants always say that Cary Carnival is special because the crowd is so warm and welcoming. We proved that with cheers and dancing in the streets!”

But organisers of the Frome Carnival have warned that this year’s event could be the last due to a lack of funding and rising costs. The money raised by the children’s and main processions go to the carnival’s own charity so it relies on sponsorship and fundraising events for support.

Castle Cary Scouts with Lions and Lionesses in the children’s procession

The Frome Flyers majorettes

Both Cary and Frome are part of the Wessex Carnival Circuit. The dates for the Somerset Guy Fawkes carnivals are: November 1st: Bridgwater; November 3rd: Highbridge and Burnham; November 7th: Weston-super-Mare: November 8th; North Petherton; November 12th: Shepton Mallet; November 14th: Wells; November 15th: Glastonbury. Midsomer Norton Carnival (an associate member of the circuit) takes place on Monday, November 10th.

Fundraisers at the Castle Cary children’s procession

Magnum CC’s entry Flamenco Fiesta on the road in Frome

Kipling CC and their entry Hillbilly Joe’s in Castle Cary

Santa’s Workshop by AJs Junior CC

The Castle Cary children’s procession was held the week before the main carnival

Flying the flag for Ukraine in Frome

One of the Cary Comedians cast

Higlets CC with Wingin’ It in Castle Cary

Country fair

SOMERSET Sight, which supports over 3,000 visually impaired people across the county, held a fundraiser at Yarlington Country House near Wincanton, which featured a car boot sale, traditional games, entertainment, classic cars, a fun dog show, and much more!

Details: 01832 333818 or email: admin@somersetsight.org.uk

Keeping warm!

BATHhospital charity, RUHX, raised £7,500 with a firewalking event at Lansdown Cricket Club in Bath, with 29 people braving the coals.

Hospice gardens

ST Margaret's Hospice raised £31,471 with this year’s Glorious Gardens scheme, with more than 50 gardens open across Dorset and Somerset.

Now in its eighth year, it says the scheme continues to celebrate the power of green spaces to connect people, nurture wellbeing and make a lasting difference for local people needing hospice care.

The 2025 campaign was once again sponsored by Greenslade Taylor Hunt. The hospice is already inviting gardeners to take part next year.

Pupils host village coffee morning

YOUNGSTERS at a Mendip village school welcomed visitors to their first Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning, held in aid of the charity.

Pupils from Falcon and Kingfisher classes had earlier designed leaflets promoting the event, which they hand delivered to households around St Aldhelm’s Church School in Doulting.

The coffee morning raised more than £450. Teacher Claire Newman said: “We were blown away by the support given to Falcons and Kingfisher class and this very worthy cause. It was lovely to see the children, villagers and families come together in support of each other and this cause. As a school we are very proud of our children and their advocacy work.”

Elsewhere, a coffee morning at the Market House in Castle Cary raised a similar amount. Ansford, next to Castle Cary, was the birthplace of charity founder Douglas Macmillan, who was born in 1884.

Members of the Connaught Lodge of Freemasons, based in Midsomer Norton, held their second coffee morning in aid of the charity, raising more than £200.

And villagers in Binegar and Gurney Slade raised £430 from their event in the Memorial Hall.

morning was held in

A coffee

Stanton Drew, pictured (l to r) Pat Jones, Carolynne Marshall, Liz Rudman and Anne Stephens

Thank you for your support; the team behind the morning at Binegar Memorial Hall

Falcon Class

Kingfisher Class

One of the designs for the school leaflets

Doulting resident John Lees and pupils

Members of the Macmillan team at Castle Cary

Chew Stoke Church School held a coffee morning

Pictured (l-r): Chris James, Ann Brooke, Neil Brooke and Neil Sutherland at the masonic hall event

Aid for Ukraine

THEWater Survival Box charity set up by Chelwood Bridge Rotary has sent their 14th consignment of aid for Ukraine since March, 2022.

The last consignment, sent in June, included 200 Water Survival Boxes, 100 Family Water Filters and 20 Community Water Filters, which had all been distributed by mid-September.

A spokesman said: “Sadly, the bombardment of residential areas by drones and missiles is increasing and leaving even more

families in need of our aid.

“Thanks to all who have provided the funding, the teams of packers who get the boxes ready for dispatch, and those involved in transporting and then distributing the aid to displaced families in need.”

Each box contains a water filtration unit that can provide a family of five with safe water for up to five years and a range of other items essential to help them rebuild their lives.

St. Margaret’s Hospice’s nurse appeal

ST MARGARET’SHospice has launched a new fundraising campaign, Sponsor a Nurse, calling on the Somerset community to help safeguard the future of its vital nursing care for patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses.

They care for thousands of people

each year, whether in patients’ homes, in outpatient services such as the Sunflower Centre day hospices in both Yeovil and Taunton, at the in-patient unit in Taunton and through the 24/7 advice line.

There are various sponsorship levels, ranging from £8 to £18.50 a month. The

hospice’s Committed Giving Manger, Kim Gaylard, said: “Our nurses are at the heart of everything we do.

“By sponsoring a nurse, you’re not just making a donation –you’re ensuring that patients across Somerset receive the compassion, comfort and dignity they deserve, now and in the future.”

Details: www.st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/ sponsor-a-nurse

Service plans second helicopter

DORSET and Somerset Air Ambulance has announced plans to add a second helicopter to its service by allocating £30million from its reserves.

It says it wants to enhance its lifesaving service, so that it can reach more patients in the future and save more lives than ever before.

It carried out nearly 3,000 missions last year but says there are many more patients who need help who are not being reached and the current helicopter does not fly between 2am and 7am.

It says: “With careful stewardship of funds over the years, some very generous legacies and extremely careful control of spending, the charity is now putting those gifts to work, by committing to the future of pre-hospital critical care across Dorset and Somerset, enabling more patients to receive that care whenever they need it.”

It says the £30 million will fund the purchase and fit-out of a second helicopter, the redevelopment of an operational base and key modernisation

projects, while preparing for potential 24hour operations in the future.

But it says the amounts designated from reserves are not expected to cover the full costs needed for all these developments and says public fundraising alongside the investments will need to grow.

Details: www.dsairambulance.org.uk/2ndHeli

It says: “With operational costs continuing to rise, the charity is therefore looking to expand and diversify its income streams, whilst engaging with the public on the difference ways their support can make a difference.”

SWALLOW Café welcomes MP’s visit

FROME and East Somerset MP Anna Sabine joined 30 representatives from local businesses at the SWALLOW Café in Radstock to hear about SWALLOW Charity.

SWALLOW took the opportunity to welcome Optima Products Ltd as the charity’s latest corporate friend. The charity relies on voluntary income to be able to respond to all those who need support. Currently the charity helps 170 people, with more asking for support every day.

the

Hospice thanks drinkers

WEDMOREFriends of Weston Hospicecare have thanked Wedmore Real Ale Festival for a donation of £2,000.

The money will be used towards the purchase of two laptops for the community nurses and the purchase of 20 chairs for the in-patient unit at the hospice for families to use.

So far this year the community nurses have had 61 patients on their list from the Wedmore and Axbridge area and the hospice has had 28 in-patients from Wedmore alone.

The Friends are celebrating their tenth anniversary this year after being founded by Shirley Wederell.

She said: “I would personally like to thank ‘my Best is the West team’ for all their hard work throughout the year.”

Business support

THEGreat Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) is calling on local businesses – and the people who work in them – to support its new Mission Maker Challenge. It says each call-out costs around £2,200 and by pledging to raise this amount during 2026, workplaces can directly fund a mission.

Thanks to a generous anonymous donor, the first ten businesses that pledge by December 1st will have their fundraising doubled, funding not one but two missions.

Joe Hughes, GWAAC Strategic Partnerships Manager, said: “Every time our helicopter takes off, it could mean the difference between life and death for someone local. Mission Maker gives local workplaces a real opportunity to make a tangible difference in their community.”

and

and

Anna (left), Sakina Buoy, from the Somerset Toiletry Company, and SWALLOW members at the Radstock Café

MENDIPbeef farmer Jo Creed raised £3,600 for

Dorset

Somerset Air Ambulance with a cream tea

mega raffle at Priddy village hall. Priddy

Is happiness as contagious as Covid?

By DrPHIL HAMMOND

NOTquite. But a study published in the British Medical Journal found that in any community, there are “non-random clusters” of happy and miserable people i.e. happy people are more likely to be found living near each other than would occur by chance alone. And the same goes for miserable people. This could be because happy people cut all the miserable people out of their lives and surround themselves with other optimists.

Or – as this study seems to suggest – happiness spreads across boundary walls. It also suggests that to be happy, you have to interact with others rather than keep it all to yourself.

Everything we do is driven by our mood but – rather like sex –the British aren’t too keen on talking about feelings. No one is happy all the time but those who manage a good percentage of happy days seem to be very adept at mood-flipping; getting yourself out of a miserable hole before it gets too deep.

In a relationship, humour can be the best way of flipping your partner’s mood (though it can backfire badly if you get the timing wrong). On your own, music is probably the quickest mood-flipper but you can’t spend your entire life in headphones because: a) you’ll go deaf; and b) you’ll have no friends. You need some variety on your pleasure plate.

Can you enjoy being miserable?

Everyone has their blue days, and some enjoy a bit of melancholy, but a persistent inability to find pleasure in anything, particularly in things that you used to enjoy, is a good indicator of depression. It’s also a side effect of recreational drugs that burn up all the brain’s pleasure chemicals in one instantly gratifying explosion and then leave you absolutely exhausted and looking older than your scrotum (other comparisons are available).

Some people are born with a “half-empty” rather than a “halffull” default mood and it takes more effort to flip between them into optimism. And a lot of people are just too stressed, busy or tired to have fun. But shit happens to all of us eventually and it is possible to get and give pleasure in coming to terms with it. That’s how comedians earn a living.

Relationships probably give people most pleasure and pain. As Kary Mullis put it, in his Biology Laureate Nobel Prize lecture in 1993: “There is a general place in the brain, I think, reserved for the melancholy of relationships past. It grows as life progresses, forcing you finally, against your grain, to listen to country music.”

If you’re struggling with unrequited love and need a dose of melancholy, I’d prescribe He Stopped Loving Her Today by George Jones.

No-one can be happy all the time and I distrust people who

My mum Pat two weeks after her operation

say they are, but contentment is a good spot to aim for and if you enjoy the simple pleasures in life and you have a safe haven for shelter and can afford to heat and eat so you are not cold and hungry, then most of us pootle along OK.

We actually need relatively little to be content. Enjoying your own company is key and allows you to survive whatever life throws at you. But we’re social animals and we like company and friendship.

Friends and emergencies

Friends are vital in emergencies. My 89-year-old mum – very independent and does yoga positions I could only dream of –recently toppled over on the pavement outside her flats in Chew Magna. Unfortunately, I was boarding a train coming down from Newcastle. She knew immediately she’d broken her leg.

Friends and neighbours stayed with her for five hours before the ambulance arrived, keeping her company and keeping her warm. One phoned the surgery and arranged for pain relief. We can’t thank them enough. She’s made remarkable progress and will soon be back in her flat. I know all her friends and neighbours will keep an eye on her.

Not only is happiness contagious, but compassion is too. If we build communities on kindness and look put for those in need, then most of us will survive life’s challenges and perhaps even laugh in adversity. But not so much that we fall over.

Dr Phil is contributing to seasonal merriment in the Old School Rooms on November 29th. Tickets (and excellent wine) from The Wine Rooms next door.

Ask Dr. Hannah

Club’s national award

NAILSEADistrict Leg Club has been awarded Leg Club of the Year for its work in helping people with lower leg issues.

Chair, Carole Brooke, said: “I am immensely proud that each nurse and volunteer go the extra mile to ensure that we are giving of our best each and every week. Our members undoubtedly benefit.”

It opened its first drop-in clinic ten years ago. Some of those involved are pictured at the Tithe Barn in Nailsea, where the clinic meets.

How you can support our work

RUHX, is the official NHS charity of The Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, but we are more than a hospital charity. We go further to give you and your loved ones the extra extraordinary care you deserve, while supporting our staff to do what they do best.

Every penny we raise goes towards improving the health, happiness and wellbeing of everyone in Bath, Mendip, and beyond – and without gifts in Wills, we simply couldn’t do what we do.

Having a Will, and making sure it’s up to date, is the best way of making clear what you wish to happen to your estate in the future. You can also include what happens to your children or pets, should anything happen to you. A Will can also be used to help both the people and the causes closest to your heart.

At RUHX, we count on gifts in Wills. Whether it’s a large sum or a little something, every gift empowers us to go above and beyond with innovative equipment, research, and facilities, along with a huge number of smaller things that bring comfort to patients and staff.

By leaving a gift in your Will, you’re helping the RUH to keep on being here and doing more for your family, friends, and community – long into the future. What a powerful legacy to leave behind.

To find out more about how a gift in your Will can support your local hospital, head to ruhx.org.uk/gift-in-wills to download our free gift in Wills guide or speak to our Legacies team

(Photo courtesy of RUHX)

Spaces still available for free cancer tests

THERE is still time for men to book space for a free prostate cancer testing event in November in Street.

Organised by the Somerset Prostate Support Association, the day follows the success of similar sessions in Croscombe, Yatton and Glastonbury. A further session is planned to take place in the town hall in Wells in February.

The tests, which take 10-15 minutes, will take place on Saturday, November 15th from 10am to 4pm at the Victoria Club. Appointments must be booked online in advance. All tests are confidential and are carried out by qualified medical practitioners.

SPSA was formed in 2003 by a group of men who had been treated for prostate cancer at Musgrove Park Hospital and for some years was a successful support group before its focus changed to undertaking a few awareness events but mainly PSA Testing events.

The SPSA says every year in the UK 40,000 men are diagnosed with the disease and 10,000 die from it. Early diagnosis can be crucial to successful treatment.

A full house

Preparing for breakfast

BLAGDON’Sannual Big Breakfast morning for Weston Hospicecare raised £1,450, well over last year’s amount, despite gusty winds and rain caused by Storm Amy.

One of the organisers, Tina Smith, said they had a full house, with £238 made from the sale of hospice Christmas cards.

The next event will be a coffee morning on Saturday, November 8th at Blagdon Club.

Church giving

MEMBERSof Peasedown St John’s, St John’s Church have given away another £12,000 this year to local, national and international causes.

The congregation follows the biblical principle of giving away the first ten percent of its income each year in a bid to practice what it preaches.

Over the last 14 years, the church has distributed a staggering £139,000 in charitable giving.

Details: www.stjsgroup.church

Bulb planting

FROMETown Council is working with local schools and community groups to plant 10,000 Tenby and tête-à-tête daffodil bulbs in October and November. Jo Morris and Helen Viner are pictured.

New woodland

A NEW community woodland in memory of much-loved Frome resident Moko Sellars, who died in 2022, aged 39, can proceed, thanks to a £25,000 crowdfunder raised by her friends and family for the design and planting of a piece of land adjacent to Spring Gardens.

Work started on the two-acre site with a visit from James Foster of Wessex Working Horses and shire horses Dime and Flynn, who will prepare the land for seeding using traditional methods.

Artists exhibit at café

STANTON Drew Community Café supported local artists during the recent Chew Valley Arts Trail by exhibiting their work.

One of the organisers, Anne Bennett, said: “We want to say a huge ‘thank you’ to all those who baked, served, made crafts or did any other job over this last weekend.

“We had so many people say what a lovely church with a friendly, warm feeling.”

The café made about £500 for much-needed repairs to the church of St Mary. Ellis, aged 11, is pictured selling his own home-grown cucumbers and chillies.

Community shops support each other

SOMERSET’Sgrowing number of community shops, set up by volunteers to replace closed commercial shops, are now joining forces to share ideas and experience. Sixteen representatives of 11 community shops held their third meeting in Brent Knoll.

It was hosted by Brent Knoll Community Shop, which opened as an “emergency shop” at the height of the Covid crisis almost six years ago, after the closure of their village shop and Post Office.

The Somerset Community Shops Group already has members from Hinton St George, Westbury-sub-Mendip, Oake, Nortonsub-Hamdon, Seavington, Draycott, Stogumber, Winsham, Kingsbury Episcopi, Crowcombe, Bicknoller, Brent Knoll and Roadwater.

Other community shops in the county are being encouraged to join the group to share information or request advice and they will meet again after Christmas.

The Brent Knoll meeting was also attended by a senior representative from the Plunkett Foundation, the national charity that has supported more than 350 community shops and helped them to achieve a much higher survival rate than the average for new business ventures.

Topics addressed at the meeting included marketing, social media, profitability, recruiting and retaining volunteers and the policies and procedures required.

Founder of the county group, Cherry Bird, of the Roadwater Community Shop, said: “These gatherings are hugely productive, generating a host of ideas that we can adopt.”

Market gets a boost

STREET’S Thursday Market has a new logo, thanks to a competition run by the parish council. The winner, who has asked to remain anonymous, said:

“The weekly market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a cornerstone of community life. It’s where neighbours meet, local businesses thrive, and visitors get a true taste of what makes Street so special.”

The design draws inspiration from recognisable landmarks around the village, including the iconic clock and the glorious hanging baskets lining the streets.

Street Thursday Market was taken on by Street Parish Council back in April 2025 as part of the devolution process from Somerset Council.

Artist raises funds for repairs

MARIONJohnson is organising a Christmas Sale in Congresbury for the Friends of St. Andrew’s, raising funds for church repairs, including painting the interior of the chancel and replacing the lawnmower.

She will be selling copies of her painting at the event on November 29th in Congresbury Methodist hall, which will include crafts, cakes, plants, cards and jewellery, 10am-noon, entry £2.

Scouts’ award

LOCAL Freemasons have donated £2000 to the Wells 5/7th division Scouts. Benevolent Lodge has been established in the city since 1837.

It invited scout leader Heather Anderson accompanied by trustee Richard Cronin and several fellow scouts to join them at a recent meeting of the Lodge. The donation was to support vital renovations to their Scout hut.

Heather said: “We are most grateful to the Freemasons for this generous donation which will make a huge difference to our members.”

Lodge charity steward John Law said: “We are delighted to make this donation to such a worthy cause. The shared values of Freemasonry and Scouting – service, integrity, and community – made this partnership a natural fit.”

Club meets for last time

CHILCOMPTON Golden Hour club members met for the last time with a farewell meal. Numbers attending last winter dwindled and membership in April fell by 25%, making it no longer financially viable to continue.

Over the years grants from the Sperring Trust, the Chilcompton Society and Chilcompton Celebrates kept the group afloat. Now with only three active committee members remaining, it says, sadly, it is time to call it a day.

The club was started in 1968 as a social activity for over 50s and was supported by many volunteer committee members over the years, most recently Sylvia and David Rogers as treasurer and entertainment secretary, respectively.

They were presented with a garden vouchers in appreciation of their commitment and hard work over many years.

Indian cuisine

SANDFORDWI held a very popular Indian cookery evening where Tejashri Bhagat, a local resident and trained chef, explained the use of various spices in garam masala for Indian cooking.

Winter clothing

THERotary Club of Chelwood Bridge is collecting good quality items of clothing to help the homeless this winter and will be doing so until Friday, November 21st.

The drop-off point is Pensford Post Office, Pensford Hill, Pensford, Bristol BS39 4AF.

Harvest gifts

WELLSu3a organised a get-together at Wells Football Club to celebrate harvest, after which Maggie Charlesworth from the Lawrence Centre received their donations.

The centre is in central Wells and provides day opportunities for older people including those living with memory loss, health issues or people who are socially isolated.

Details: 01749 676839 email mcharlesworth@thelawrencecentre.org.uk

Cheddar considers water power

A FEASIBILITY study is underway into a small hydropower system on the site of the former Cox’s Mill Hotel in Cheddar. The study enabled by a

grant from the government’s Community Energy Fund and managed by South West Net Zero Hub has the support of landowners Cheddar Caves (Longleat Enterprises Limited) and Bristol Water, under the umbrella of the Cheddar Community Partnership.

For centuries Cheddar made good use of the power of the River Yeo, with over 13 mills along the first half mile.

When Cox’s Mill was demolished, it exposed the final effort to take power from the Yeo - a 1957 turbine in the mill’s basement to generate electricity.

Early estimates suggest a replacement system could generate around 200,000kWh of power each year, with profits supporting local organisations.

The community partnership will be undertaking community engagement in the coming months.

Details: cheddarhydro@gmail.com

Games night

THEStrawberry Line WI held a games night when members were served refreshments and cake to help with their concentration playing Rummikub, Beetle Drive, Guess Who and Dobble!

Tree of Light

CHEDDARVale Lions Club will be launching its annual Tree of Light at the beginning of November.

It gives members of the local community the chance to sponsor a light in memory of a loved one and is now in its 13th year.

The dedication service and lighting ceremony will take place at the Bath Arms terrace on Monday, December 8th at 6.30pm.

All proceeds go to support projects in the Cheddar Valley area.

Details: alan.sanderson@cheddarvalelions.org.uk www.cheddarvalelions.org.uk

Workshops restart

CRAFT workshops have resumed in Compton Dando after a break for the summer. Pictured (l to r) are Mary Burnard, Margaret Barnes and Barbara Baxter.

The next workshop will be on Tuesday, November 18th, 10am-4pm at Compton Dando village hall.

Details: hdottridge@hotmail.com 07791 832592

Poppies return to the Bishop’s Palace

Remembering the fallen at the Bishop’s Palace

HUNDREDS of metal stemmed poppies will once again be planted at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells this year, in time for Remembrance weekend in November.

There were originally 7,986 poppies in 2018 made by local school children in 2018 – one to mark each life lost of servicemen from the county of Somerset during World War One – but some were sold to raise money for SSAFA and the Wells branch of the Royal British Legion.

After the original Somerset Poppies project finished it was agreed that the palace should retain 2,000 poppies in order to continue to display them inside the grounds, as they had been taken to the hearts of the local people of Somerset.

Each year they have moved to a different location in the gardens and this year the poppies will be on display from November 6th-19thin the palace’s Inner Gardens near the Well House.

Meanwhile, plans have been confirmed for three days of remembrance in Frome. The special one-off weekend over Friday, November 7th to Sunday, November 9th will begin on the Friday night with a Frome Festival of Remembrance at the Memorial Theatre,

Saturday will begin at 9.45am from the Memorial Theatre with the first of three war grave walks over the day. A reading of the Roll of Honour of the fallen of WW2 will take place at the Memorial at 11am, then at 2pm in the Assembly Rooms, the premiere of a series of Frome amateur archive films taken during 1939-1945 will be shown. The day will end with the screening in the theatre of the 1942 Noel Coward film “In Which We Serve”

“The Weekend to Remember” will end on Sunday with the annual parade and act of remembrance at 10.55am at the memorial.

Latter stages of Mendip lead mining

BY the end of the 16th century, the pursuit of galena forced the local lead miners to excavate deeper. These deeper workings were hampered by constant flooding, the only method of removal being by wooden or leather buckets, handwinched to the surface.

To overcome this problem, Bevis Bulmer attempted to drain Broad Rake at Stock Hill, and later, Thomas Bushell, a wellknown mining engineer, began driving “a drift from the Conclaves of a natural swallow twenty fathoms deep” in an attempt to drain nearby Rowpits, a major mineral area located in Stock Hill Forest. His works were hampered by mistrustful miners and although he persevered until 1671, he never achieved his goal. The exact location of his drift remains unknown.

In 1774, three Bristol men (Underwood, Shapland and Riddle) drove a similar adit from Stock’s House Shaft, a mine rediscovered by modern cave diggers in 2001. The adit, dateable by the shothole size and pieces of clay pipe, soon ended in a blank wall, although with more investment it’s possible that this venture might have succeeded.

In 1794 an even more ambitious idea of driving an adit from Compton Martin to Wookey Hole was floated: an incredible distance of five miles. This project would clearly have taken many years to complete, so needless to say, it was never started. By 1684 the use of gunpowder had spread to the mines of Mendip, but figures for the Chewton Minery suggest that it did little to increase the output. Production plummeted to a mere tenth of that extracted in the 1660s, although the occasional chance finds and the small-scale picking over of old spoil heaps did keep a few men in gainful employment.

Rev. Skinner, passing through Priddy in 1815, noted that it appeared to have been “a far more considerable place…during the

time the lead mines were worked, at present it is a miserable straggling village, barren, bleak and unsheltered.”

He later recorded that a party of miners working close to The Castle of Comfort had found some large, detached ore masses, capable of supporting about a week’s wage for one miner, although this was the exception rather than the rule.

When underground mining ceased, the reworking of the extensive slag heaps came to the fore. As early as 1807 Mendip slag had been tested (assayed) to reveal that the best samples still contained up to 27% lead. The waste material at the Priddy and Chewton Mineries was estimated to be in excess of two million cubic yards, and similar large volumes of slag existed at Charterhouse, East Harptree and Tor Hole Bottom.

The first enterprising individual to resmelt the old material was a local doctor called Benjamin Somers, who commenced work in about 1820 on his own land at Charterhouse. Ten years later he set up similar equipment at the Priddy and Chewton Mineries and this work carried on until his death in 1848.

Next on the scene were Barwell and Wright, who took a lease on the Chewton Minery in about 1850, about the time that Cornish mining engineers began to take an interest in the area. The first Cornishman to arrive was Nicholas Ennor, who was asked to advise on the operations at Chewton Minery.

However, he quickly realised that the Priddy Minery held superior material and he took on the lease himself when Barwell refused to pay the asking price. Unfortunately for Ennor, all the water for Priddy Minery came from land owned by Chewton Minery and relations between the two rival enterprises quickly soured when Chewton Minery churlishly cut off the supply. Dam building, channel cutting, fist fights and trespass raged for two years until, in 1860, matters came to court, with Ennor eventually winning the rights to a water supply.

This was only a short reprieve, for in

1862 Ennor was again in court, defending an action brought by Mr Hodgkinson, the owner of Wookey Hole paper mill, to prevent lead-polluted water from contaminating the clean supply to the mill. This time, Ennor lost and had to undertake expensive redevelopment works to continue. However, this was only a short term solution, and he sold his interest soon after. By 1869 work at the plant had ceased.

Work continued at Chewton Minery with brief success: figures of over 1000 tons of lead were recorded for 1875, but by 1877 production ceased and only ore dressing took place for smelting in Bristol, an operation which wound up in 1876. The East Harptree Minery followed a similar pattern, with a peak output of 1053 tons of lead in 1871. Work ceased in 1875, although its lead mine chimney on Smitham Hill survives to this day.

At Charterhouse, Cornish engineers had more success and even installed a modern plant for the extraction of silver. From 1858 to 1878, at least 1,000 ounces of silver were produced every year, although this operation too had ceased by 1884.

In 1890 the St Cuthbert’s works at Priddy Minery was brought back into production, and the huge sum of £6000 was spent modernising the plant and machinery. Production peaked in 1907 but ceased shortly after following a collapse in the price of lead. This signalled the end of the Mendip lead mining industry, and in 1910 the plant and machinery were sold off.

Nature has reclaimed these industrial areas for its own, but buried beneath lie 2000 years of blood, sweat and toil of countless “Old Men” of a once busy industry.

The MCRA is a registered charity, a nonprofit making organisation staffed entirely by volunteers

Trevor Hughes is the MCRA registrar for Central Mendip and is a cave and mine explorer of many years’ experience

With TREVOR HUGHES

Rotary motoring festival

WRINGTON Vale Rotary Club held a Classic Car and Bike Festival at Brean Down, courtesy of Richard Bigwood, with a striking display of cars and bikes.

With friendly conversation and a lively atmosphere, Susie Downs ran a raffle with terrific prizes that drew strong support, while Angus Murray kept everyone fuelled with tasty baps all morning.

All profits will be donated to nearby good causes including “Somewhere to Go” – the centre providing food and support in Weston-super-Mare and local schools.

Travel award

CHEWStoke Church School has been nominated for the prestigious 2025 National STARS School Travel Awards for the fifth consecutive year.

The awards honour efforts in promoting walking, cycling, and other forms of sustainable travel on the journey to school.

The school also marked World Car-Free Day on September 22nd.

Eavis does it “his way”

SIR Michael Eavis celebrated his 90th birthday with live music and a party in his home village of Pilton.

He sang three songs and concluded with My Way by Frank Sinatra. Ellie Goulding, Billy Bragg, Andy Reilly and Rodney Allen also sang at the Pilton Stage.

l See page 48.

Somerset Circle is closer to completion

WORK on creating the 76-mile Somerset Circle off-road multiuse route has seen two more major sections of work completed.

The friends of Windsor Hill tunnels were proud to host the official opening of the latest section of path to be completed west of Shepton Mallet from The Ham Wood Viaduct to Thrupe Lane above Croscombe.

And as the November issue of Mendip Times was being published, a bridge was due to be installed over the River Yeo at Cheddar, offering a traffic-free route around the village avoiding the A371.

It is hoped the Somerset Circle will eventually offer a largely traffic-free route linking the Mendips to the coast at Clevedon and onto Bristol, Bath and Radstock. The route through Mendip uses mostly the former trackbed of the Strawberry Line.

The line – a branch of the Great Western Railway – ran from Witham Friary, near Frome, through Shepton Mallet and Wells and onto Cheddar. Work has largely been carried out by teams of volunteers working with landowners and local councils. In the case of the Cheddar section, the route was made possible with the support of the Kings of Wessex School, which

provided land.

Much was achieved on the Thrupe section at the Greenways seven-day summer work camp which saw almost 400 volunteers with some individuals coming from as far away as Cumbria.

Guests at the ribbon-cutting to open the Thrupe section

Hats off! The Walk Wheel Cycle Trust – formerly known as Sustrans – won a major European-wide award

Some of the Monday work party team preparing the route of the bridge in Cheddar

Sir Michael with friends and family at his birthday party on October 17th

Clutton’s past comes alive online

CLUTTON’Srich history is now just a click away. A new online archive –packed with over 60 pages of stories, photos, maps and interviews – brings the village’s past to life.

The project, 12 months in the making, has been a local volunteer-led initiative set up to share as many of Clutton’s historical resources as possible and put them in one comprehensive online archive.

Alan Gray, a long-term resident has created the website which has been put together with the support of villagers and

the Clutton History group. The project also benefitted from a grant from the Chelwood Community fund.

The vast majority of the history group’s historical material existed only in hard copy format. The aim was therefore to create an archive that could be shared widely, so anyone interested in Clutton’s heritage could explore it online.

The archive paints a vivid picture of village life, including coal mining, railways, school life, sport and leisure and many other aspects.

Although centred on Clutton, the

archive already includes some material from neighbouring villages, reflecting Clutton’s close ties with the surrounding areas. And it continues to grow. Chris Border, secretary of the Clutton History group, views this as an ongoing project.

He said: “We’re still collecting photos, documents and personal stories of residents who have lived in the village for a number of years. If anyone has material tucked away in an attic or a family album, we’d love to add it to the collection.”

New research by Harptrees History Society

HARPTREESHistory Society hosted an informal open meeting at the Waldegrave Arms in East Harptree to gather ideas for future research projects.

In previous years, the society has dug test pits and analysed the finds, done resistivity surveys of fields and large gardens, researched and published a book about the history of the Chew Valley, field walked, held exhibitions and attended workshops.

Over the past year or so the society's research group has been working on the history of the Waldegrave Arms, which will also be published as a book once the study is completed.

Now the Society wants to widen its research activities by exploring topics raised by local people, a number of whom joined society members at the open meeting.

Such was the enthusiasm, it was decided that the group would meet monthly to consider how best to develop the new research projects.

Details: info@harptreeshistorysociety.org • https://harptreeshistorysociety.org

Clutton school circa 1900

Clutton station

Village farm’s new boss Toys for boys –and grown-ups too!

THEFood Forest Project charity and its flagship Wedmore Village Farm has appointed a new chair. Somerset native, Jason Mills, studied land management at university and then embarked on a career in property development and urban regeneration, living and working in Panama, Central America for several years.

Now back in his home county of Somerset, he has created his own regenerative grassland farm near Wedmore.

Wedmore village farm operates a thriving market garden that supplies fresh seasonal produce to local food banks. The team also operates a veg box delivery venture across North Somerset, a campsite and sauna, community events space, and a food education programme with local schools.

Jason said: “We are keen to connect with like-minded local businesses that are interested in supporting us, whether through donations or by providing a team of corporate volunteers to help deliver practical projects at the farm.”

The Wedmore Village Farm Christmas Market is on Saturday, December 6th, 11am-4pm.

MORE trade stands, more displays and more visitors made for a hugely successful Toytrac 2025 at the Frome Showground.

The hall was full for a day of displays of agricultural dioramas with visitors and exhibitors coming from all over the country.

The winner of the under-16 category was Luke Arscott, from Rooksbridge; the winner of the adult class was Royston Dyer, from Devon.

The town where time stood still –until now

IT took the combined efforts of a current and a former president of Shepton Mallet Rotary Club along with community support and the local history group, but the town’s historic clock has now been restored to full working order.

The Town Clock, in the High Street above the former Post Office, Clifford’s jewellery shop and what is now the Backhouse betting shop, has been out-of-action for more than a decade after catastrophic mechanical failure. It was first installed in the late 19th Century.

Campaigning by Chris Norman from the Shepton Mallet Area History Group and a £3,500 donation from local Rotarians led by former president Robin Weelen and current president Keith Jenkins meant a solar-powered mechanism could be installed.

The clock is being seen as a tribute to former rotary club member and jewellery shop owner Don Clifford who used to wind the clock. He was able to offer advice on restoring the clock but died before it could be unveiled. The clock is under the stewardship of the history group and was repaired by a team from local commercial maintenance company 3 Solutions.

Keith said: “I am delighted that the partnership between

has

determined Rotarians and local technical expert contractors

restored the classic and historic town clock back to life.”

Don’s widow, Pearl and their daughter Sally Baker, with Rotarians, Jack Clift (3 Solutions) and Chris Norman in front of the restored clock

Luke Arscott

And receiving his prizes from Hideo Takeda, brand manager of Tommys Toys

Local energy projects

THREEcommunities in BANES – Radstock and Westfield, St Catherine’s and Batheaston and Twerton and Whiteway – will take part in a project exploring the potential for community-owned small-scale renewable energy projects in their area.

The communities were selected from 19 organisations that registered their interest in taking part in the Energy in Your Community project, a partnership project involving Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bath & West Community Energy (BWCE), the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) and the University of Bath.

The project aims to support the development of 5MW of community-owned renewable generation across the Bath and North East Somerset area by 2030.

The three communities will be offered support to identify, develop and promote small-scale renewable energy projects such as wind farms or solar farms.

Three other communities took part in the 2022 Future Energy Landscape (FEL) pilots with the council and the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) – Peasedown and Wellow, Temple Cloud and Hinton Blewett and Stowey Sutton and East and West Harptree.

Details: Community_Energy@bathnes.gov.uk.

Dressage stressage

THIS month has still been glorious and I cannot believe I am still using my jumps in the field. Normally they are packed away in a barn by now ready for next year. Mind you they have not had very much use this year with the glorious summer and subsequent hard ground. I love riding on grass, and I think it is much better for horses’ joints and ligaments.

I don’t put studs in when jumping at home as I prefer horses to learn to balance themselves, but I am also very careful to make sure the grass is on the longer side and the footing is on the good side. I try to avoid riding and schooling on flat ground because it helps you develop better balance.

In eventing you are rarely on a perfectly flat grass arena so it’s a useful skill to keep practicing.

King Sedgemoor Equestrian run the most wonderful unaffiliated dressage series sponsored by NFU Sedgemoor. They have a summer and winter series. You qualify by entering one of their dressage competitions which they have once a month and then they run a championship for everyone who has qualified.

They run classes from lead rein all the way to medium, so something for everyone. I qualified in Novice and Elementary. My biggest fear was learning two tests. My ability to learn tests is weak at the best of times and with having to learn two tests including an elementary, I was worried!

I spent two days actively learning my tests, rather than my slightly lackadaisical approach of 39 mins the night before. On the day I managed to remember both my tests and even better won them both. Charlotte at King Sedgemoor, makes such an effort with the prizes.

I won a silver plate, sash, beautiful rosette, mug, beany hat, Stubben saddlecloth, polos, fly spray and a hessian shopper bag. Better prizes than I have often received eventing! It really is the loveliest competition, and I would recommend it to everyone to go and give it a go. Their winter series has just started.

Eris has recovered from being kicked. With the leg being healed up, I have restarted her education and I am just thrilled with how she has taken to life as a ridden horse. Eris is only three years old, so my aims are very much about just giving her a taste of ridden life in a very low key-way without putting her under any pressure.

We started with walk in the arena. I then rode her round

the yard up and down the track, so she learns to be comfortable outside of the arena and confident in new situations. We then went back into the arena and did some trotting which is rather like trying to ride a camel as we have no ability to turn.

Finally last week we reached the milestone of being able to hack out for the first time. I boxed her up to my friend Roy’s yard in Badgworth. The roads are nicer in Badgworth and there are some nice tracks you can access with no traffic. I couldn’t stop smiling.

I was so proud of how she took it all in and handled herself with such confidence. That is it for Eris now, she will spend the winter in the field with her mates, hopefully trying not to kill each other and racking up vets’ bills.

It is all about showjumping from now on. It’s without doubt my weakest phase. My trainer Jo May has challenged me to do four 1.15m classes by April which is mildly terrifying as I find 1.10m pretty big. At the moment my goal is to get four clears at 90cm in British Novice to try and qualify for second rounds.

To complicate things, you cannot have more than 125 points and I currently have 97 points with three double clears left to get. If you get a double clear, you get 5 points. I picked up a 2nd place at Kings Sedgemoor the other day which is 13 points. It is now a juggling act of trying to pick up clear rounds without too many points.

We have won £125 this year showjumping but if you work out how much it has cost me then I am definitely not even close to breaking even! Keep your fingers crossed for me.

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

More young riders welcome

BURCOTT Riding for the Disabled Group welcomed children back to its weekly sessions after their summer break but says it would love to help more youngsters discover the benefits of getting close to horses.

The children take part in a therapeutic session which involves getting to know the horses and ponies, during which they learn about how to care for them as well as ride.

Burcott RDAA – a registered charity and full member of the Riding for the Disabled Association – has been established since 1989 and raises funds at events such as Mendip Point-to-Point to subsidise the sessions.

It says spending time with horses is proven to reduce anxiety, encourage interaction, increase selfesteem and facilitate the expression of feelings and emotions. As well as being therapeutic, riders exercise more than 100 muscles a minute without knowing it, which makes each ride a physiotherapy session too.

Children attend the sessions at Burcott Riding Centre, near Wells, on Tuesday mornings during term time. Riders can come with a parent or carer, or a school group. They don’t have to have a physical disability but may suffer from conditions such as autism or ADHD. There is a weight limit but no age limit. Each rider is accompanied in the arena by two fully-trained volunteers and a coach.

Coach Julie Harrogate said: “We aim to make our sessions calm,

our

H Do you have a loved one who loves horses? is year we are offering riding lesson vouchers – a great Christmas present for any age!

H We can personalise the vouchers and they can be for any financial amount. All vouchers are valid for 12 months.

H Vouchers can be emailed once payment has been received.

H Vouchers can also be gifted forward if the original recipient doesn’t wish to take them up.

H (e rider must be within our weight limit and complete a registration form)

fun and for the benefit of all who attend. Safety is always paramount and

wonderful friendly volunteers are fully trained to assist during the sessions.”

Belle, from Glastonbury, with volunteers at Burcott RDA

Belle, aged eight, on Leroy, after gaining her Stage One qualification

Each rider is accompanied by two of

Sunday sounds: The chatter of cyclists and the spirit of the ride

IFyou live next to a popular cycling route, you’ll know the sound of Sunday mornings. It’s not the peaceful birdsong or the gentle rustle of trees, but the faint, breathless chatter of cyclists drifting through the still air. You rarely hear the smooth whirr of tyres or the crisp click of a gear change – just a few broken words as they glide by. “Left up here!” “Coffee at Wells?”

And before you’ve made sense of it, they’ve gone, leaving you wondering what on earth cyclists find to talk about while pedalling in matching Lycra at seven o’clock in the morning.

The truth is, cycling conversation is rarely profound, but it’s the lifeblood of the ride. Without it, a group outing would be nothing more than silent suffering on wheels. Talk is what keeps a group moving together, literally and figuratively – part motivation, part survival strategy, part social glue.

Of course, not all cycling chatter is optional. Some of it is absolutely essential. Group rides have their own language of safety, a series of urgent calls and gestures that keep everyone upright and uninjured. “Car back!” ripples down the line like a warning from a flock of birds.

“Hole!” or “gravel!” comes with an emphatic point to the Tarmac, while “Stopping!” is shouted with just enough panic to ensure that brakes are applied in time. These aren’t polite suggestions –they’re survival tactics, honed through experience and near misses.

After a while, the hand signals and short bursts of speech become second nature, like an instinctive code. A raised arm

means slowing down; a flick of the elbow means “Your turn at the front.” It’s not so different from a well-rehearsed dance, except the participants are red-faced, sweaty and muttering about coffee.

Then there are the moments when talking simply stops – the long, grinding climbs where words are replaced by wheezes and gestures. On these sections, conversation takes a different form: The silent psychological duel. Every rider knows the sideways glance, that quick check to see how your companion is coping.

Are they suffering more than you? Less? The trick is to reveal nothing. Keep your gaze forward, breathe through the pain and pretend it’s easy. Let them wonder. In cycling, as in poker, a good bluff can be worth its weight in gold.

Occasionally, the best conversations happen off the bike entirely. I once found myself tackling a hill near Regil that felt more like a vertical wall than a road. Behind me, a tractor approached, and with no room to pass, it followed patiently as I inched my way upward. There’s nothing quite like the added pressure of an audience to make you push yourself harder.

When I finally reached the top and pulled in by a gate, the driver stopped, smiled, and said: “Young man, Winston Churchill once said ‘If you’re going through hell, keep going.’” He paused, clearly pleased with the timing, and added, “I reckon you’ve just done that.”

Then he drove off, leaving me nodding in breathless agreement, grateful for his wisdom and slightly annoyed that he’d summed up my morning so neatly.

Once the ride is over, the conversation shifts gears. Helmets off, coffee cups in hand, cyclists become expert storytellers. Every hill gets steeper in the retelling,

every descent faster, every sprint a little more heroic. It’s a ritual of exaggeration and shared suffering and it’s as much a part of cycling as the ride itself.

And then there’s the gear talk. No cycling get-together is complete without it. “What tyres are you running?” “Have you tried those carbon wheels?” “My bike’s making a noise – only on climbs.” This kind of conversation is part science, part superstition. The pursuit of the perfect setup never ends and the only constant is the conviction that someone else’s bike must roll faster than yours.

Finally, there’s the conversation that happens once you get home – the least satisfying of them all. “Where did you go?” comes the inevitable question. “Oh, across to Cheddar Gorge and then back via Wedmore,” you reply, waiting for the appropriate admiration. What you get instead is a blank stare. You could have cycled to Paris and back and the reaction would be the same.

So yes, cyclists talk – sometimes too much, sometimes not enough, and often about nothing at all. But underneath the chatter lies something important. Those shouts of warning, shared jokes, and breathless grumbles are what turn a group of individuals into a community. They make the suffering lighter, the miles shorter and the hills just about bearable.

So next Sunday morning, when that blur of Lycra passes your window and you catch just a few words on the wind, don’t dismiss them as nonsense. Somewhere in those snippets of chatter – half warning, half laughter – lies the spirit of cycling itself: Friendship, resilience and the shared joy of keeping the wheels turning.

ACROSS: 1. Heron 4. Litton 9. Milometer 10. Truro 11. Ascends 12. Bleadon 13. Lack taste 16. City 18. Dupe 19. Eulogised 22. Shipham 23. Frogman 25 & 27. Shute Shelve 26. Obstinate 27. See 25 28. Glean. DOWN:1. Ham Wall 2. Relic 3 & 5. Nempnett Thrubwell 4. Lotus 5. See 3 6. Outset 7. Sundries 8. Godney 14. Capsicum 15. Steamroll 17. Ignoring 18. Desist 20. Dungeon 21. Thresh 23. Fosse 24. Meare

Runners were happy –but “tuckered” by race

AROUND 400 runners of all ages tackled the second annual Mother’s Tuckers race, organised by Somer Athletic Club.

Starting and finishing at the Tucker’s Grave Inn at Faulkland, this year’s off-road event saw the first junior race – named Little Tucker’s – take place around a shorter, three-kilometre route rather than the 10km challenge.

First junior runner home was Leo Elkinton, aged ten, from Salisbury AC. The 10km men’s winner was Ben Rees, from Avon Valley Runners; the first female was Sarah Wiiliams, from Pewsey Vale RC.

Next year’s races will be on Sunday, October 4th. For details, find Somer Athletic Club and Tucker’s Grave Inn on Facaebook

The start of the 10km run

Crossing the finish line together: Maxine Barnard (let) and Katy Kay

Leo Elkinton, who won the 3km race

Young runners cross the start line

Ben and Sarah, the first man and female home

Member of Avon Valley Runners gather ahead of the start of the race

Made it! The 10km is complete for Frances Draper

Timsbury cricket

TIMSBURYchairman Ben Hosford looked back on another enjoyable year when Timsbury Cricket Club held its annual presentation night at the clubroom. He made a special mention of Martyn Sage who had looked after the wicket at the school for over 40 years but had reluctantly decided to stand down from the role.

Bowlers prepare for winter

WRINGTONBowling Club celebrated a thoroughly successful and enjoyable season with the annual prizegiving event at the end of September. More members than ever had entered competitions.

Medal winner

Coach, Sean Jenkins, said: “Boxing in an open competition against the elite boxers of the country and walking away with a silver to say I'm immensely proud of him is an understatement. He deserved all the accolades he got from the various coaches of other clubs.”

The President’s Cup, the season’s final event between the various winners of the year, couldn’t have been a closer battle, but in the end the men retained the trophy for another year.

Wrington is blessed with an all-weather surface, so bowls continues over the winter, with bowlers from other clubs welcome to join just for the winter if desired.

Details: www.wringtonbowlingclub.org

Winners (l to r) 1sts Kev Sibley, 3rds Matt Ball, 2nds Josh Tucker

Mixed pairs winners Linda Johnson and Ian Harries

Family cup winners Doug and Sue Smith

CARRYINGon from his gold medal win at the recent Bristol Box Cup Shayne Smith from Norton Radstock ABC took home a silver medal from his first Barum Box Cup.

Youngster’s world championship bid

WILLIAMRobinson wanted to race from a very young age –and has now earned a place at the world karting finals, due to be held in California, aged just ten.

The youngster, from Churchill, started karting when he was six years old for the electric racing series founded by Rob Smedley to make karting fairer and more accessible, so that talent comes first, not how big your budget is.

In his first season, William raced in a regional championship, only taking part in five races, finishing fourth overall and qualifying for his first national competition where he finished second, claiming the title National Bambino Vice Champion 2022 for the electric racing series.

Over the winter of 2022/23 William took part in a Winter Championship where he finished third and again took part in both the regional and national championship for the electric racing series. That year he came away with Regional and National Bambino Vice Champion 2023.

For 2024, aged just eight, William stepped up to the faster cadet karts, competing under the cadet light category, with bigger and faster karts and a top speed of 60mph. His rookie season in the cadet kart was incredible, claiming six race wins out of nine National Championship rounds and three further podiums to secure the title of Cadet Light

Pensford tennis winners

PENSFORDTennis Club members enjoyed the club championships, which were held in October. Bev Vallender and Jo Barnes beat Monika Park and Sally Whitemore in the ladies’ doubles.

Rico Hernandez-Morgan and Rory Farrell beat Alex Munro and Paul Traub in the men’s doubles. The mixed doubles winners were Bev Vallender and Alex Munro who beat Rico Hernandez-Morgan and Sally Whitemore.

Mixed doubles

National Champion 2024 for the electric series.

William also won the “Golden Shoot Out”, the driver who achieved the most points to win a fully funded season for 2025.

This season got off to a fantastic start with back-to-back wins at the first two rounds. After problems mid-season he got his championship bid back on track with a fantastic drive at the spectacular Glan Y Gors karting track in North Wales, where he took both race wins to reclaim his championship lead.

The penultimate round of the championship in October, saw William claim another podium, for third this time, but enough to further extend his championship lead and earn him qualification for the World Finals.

The F.A.T Karting League World Finals will be held at Willow Springs Raceway, California in December. His family are now busy fundraising to get him there. A Go Fund Me page has been set up.

William on the podium

William in action (Photo courtesy of Gavin Rathbone)

Darwin’s panto

COMPTONMartin Players are presenting an original (well almost) panto “The Compton Martin Secret School of Wizardry” written and directed by Dominic Staveacre and starring Darwin the Dragon.

There will be performances on November 27/28/29th with a Saturday matinee on the 29th. Tickets are £8-£13.

Details: Paul 07538 706446

Yatton hosts joint concert

Ladies in red

MEMBERS of Mendip Dance Club are planning to repeat their successful version of performer Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights routine to celebrate her birthday next year.

The club was joined by visitors for the celebrations last July, which were interpreted and adapted by Helena Eden.

Meanwhile, club members recently had the opportunity to look back on the year at their 15th annual meeting. Other special events for 2026 include an extended dance session on Sunday, March 8th as part of Angela Rippon’s “Let’s Dance” campaign.

No experience is required to join the club’s varied weekly dance classes.

For details, visit: www.mendipdance.wordpress.com or email mendipdance@gmail.com

THEWest Mendip Orchestra’s next concert is on Saturday, November 29th, 7.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Yatton, BS49 4HH, in conjunction with Yatton Music Society.

The concert will include Schumann’s Julius Caesar Overture, Glazunov’s Poème Lyrique, Finzi’s Ecologue for Piano and Strings and Dvorak’s Symphony no 8 in G major.

Details: www.west-mendip-orchestra.org.uk

Ladies in red – club members at July’s Kate Bush-themed event

New musical

SOMERSET-based Pudding Lane Productions has announced the world premiere of Nell! The Musical, an original stage production celebrating the remarkable life and times of Nell Gwyn –orange seller, comedic actress and famed mistress to King Charles II.

The premiere will take place on June 26th and 27th in the picturesque grounds of Charlton House, Charlton Mackrell, coinciding with the 300th anniversary of this historic venue.

A search is now underway for actors to portray Nell herself, King Charles II (Nell’s lover), Samuel Pepys (diarist), theatrical entrepreneurs Hart & Lacey and others.

Pudding Lane Productions was established this year to create and promote this brand-new musical. All the creatives in the team have been involved together in other productions.

Details: www.nellthemusical.co.uk

Church concert

THE first concert since Covid raised more than £600 for St Mary’s Church in Compton Dando. It featured the Handful Chamber Choir from Bath.

They entertained a full church with a programme of medieval to modern music and were asked to come back soon!

The Handful's next concert, Like Snow in a Dark Night is on November 29th in St Mary's Bathwick at 7.30pm.

Details: www.bathboxoffice.org.uk 01225 463362

Cheddar rocks!

CHEDDAR Valley's Vintage Cheddar Rock Band held a sellout rock & roll evening in aid of the Children's Hospice South West and raised a whopping £650!

It was a fun event organised by the Fellowship of the Knights of the Round Table of King Arthur at Cheddar Community Pavilion.

Their last event of the year is on November 22nd at Cheddar Village Hall in aid of its restoration fund.

Details: 07762 702721

Hospice hoedown

A BARNbash at Tucker’s Grave was packed full of friendly faces, cowboy hats and plenty of dancing - all to raise money for Dorothy House Hospice Care.

The event raised £2600 helping Amy West and Ellie Ellis from Coleford get one step closer to their £12,000 goal as part of their “Going on a Bear Hunt in Peru” challenge - a trek to Machu Picchu in April 2026 in support of the hospice.

Amy and Ellie said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with how the night went! Huge thanks to everyone who came along, danced, donated, bought raffle tickets, and helped make it such a memorable evening.

“Special thanks to Biff Country, Rhiannon Paige and her band, and of course the wonderful team at Tucker’s Grave for hosting us.”

Details: https://dorothyhouse.enthuse.com/pf/going-ona-bear-hunt-in-peru

Telling tales

MENDIPStorytelling Circle has celebrated 12 years of regular story sessions, even Zooming through Covid. Their October gathering saw eight storytellers, ages ranging from late 20s to early 90s, take an audience of 30 on journeys across the world.

Meeting monthly at Ston Easton Village Hall, Mendip Story Circle welcomes you to join them for an evening of entertaining, stimulating, relaxing and comforting tales.

It says: “Whatever the next 12 years may bring, the ancient art of oral storytelling will continue to spring from the minds of storytellers locally and across the world.”

Details: mendipstorycircle@gmail.com

Christmas market

THE Root Connections Christmas Market returns this year as a two-day event on Friday, November 29th (4-8pm) and on Saturday, November 30th (10am-2pm) at St John’s Church in Chilcompton. Root Connections is a community interest company, based at Manor Farm at Stratton-on-the-Fosse, which works to end homelessness in the Mendip area.

Meanwhile, Root Connections are once again offering their Bumper Christmas Veg Box for pre-order now, with delivery by Thursday, December 19th.

Produce is also available to buy at a pop-up farm shop at the farm every Friday from 10am-12.30pm as well as at the monthly Midsomer Norton Farmers’ Market. Orders can be placed online at www.rootconnections.co.uk/shop/bumper-christmas-veg-box

The ultimate craft and stitching show

GETready for three inspiring, creativity-filled days as the Craft4Crafters & Stitching 4 All Show returns to the Bath & West Showground this November! Bursting with colour, ideas, and hands-on opportunities, this is the ultimate event for anyone who loves making, stitching, and crafting.

Discover an exciting mix of exhibitors showcasing the very best in quilting, embroidery, knitting, dressmaking, paper crafting, mixed media, and more. From fabrics, threads, and patterns to beads, tools, and unique craft supplies, everything you need to spark your next project is all under one roof.

Join a full programme of workshops, demos, and talks where talented makers share their skills and top tips. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome Stephanie Weightman and her Create & Craft Design Team, who will be running live demonstrations throughout the show – bringing fresh ideas, expert techniques, and plenty of creative inspiration.

Whether you’re passionate about sewing, quilting, card making, or simply love discovering new crafts, the show offers the perfect blend of shopping, creativity, and hands-on experiences. You’ll also have the chance to make a special handmade Christmas gift to take home.

The show runs daily from November 27th-29th, 9.30am-4pm, with free parking, on-site amenities, and a friendly, vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect day out to connect with fellow crafters, learn something new, and stock up on everything you need for your next creative project.

Tickets are available online or on the door.

Details: craft4crafters.co.uk

T HE M ENDIP T IMES W HAT ’ S O

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

Until Sunday November 30th

Radstock Museum Exhibition: the music of the Somerset Coalfield. Details: www.radstockmuseum.co.uk

Thursday October 30th

“Railways in South Wales in the 1970s & 80s” with presentation on the Cavalcade at Stockton & Darlington. 7.30pm Horsecastle Chapel, Yatton BS49 4QQ. £3. Supporting the Strawberry Line café, who will provide refreshments. Details: Trevor: 01934 835208.

Friday October 31st

Camelot Area u3a talk by Kylie Gallagher on the Children’s Hospice South West, 2.30pm Caryford Hall, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. Visitors welcome, £2 incl refreshments. Details www.camelotarea.u3asite.uk

Frome Society for Local Study talk “Old songs: stories of love and death” 2.30pm Frome Memorial Theatre Assembly Rooms. Visitors welcome, £5. Details: www.fsls.org.uk

Whitchurch Local History Society: ‘From sheep to shirts – the Somerset woollen industry’ with Ken Parsons, 7.30pm URC, 24 Bristol Road, BS14 0PT. Visitors welcome £4. Details 01275 830869. Shipham Charity Lunch, 12.30pm village hall, fortnightly. Soup, bread, cheese, pickle, tea/coffee, biscuits. £5.50, U-5s free. For Save the Children. Friday October 31st to Sunday Nov 2nd Avon Guild of Spinners, Weavers & Dyers 50th anniversary free exhibition with craft demonstrations. From 11am at “Sparks Bristol” 78 Broadmead – the old M&S. Details: info.avonguildswd@gmail.com

Saturday November 1st

“Montague Terrace” a powerful drama from Brass Works Theatre. 7.30pm Chew Stoke village hall. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Vintage Hornby Model Railway Show 10am4pm King Alfred's Academy, Highbridge, TA93EE. Adults £5 cash, accompanied children free. Details: www.somersethrca.org.uk

Saturday November 1st and Sunday Nov 2nd

Blagdon Local History Society Exhibition Sat: 10am-1pm, with a talk at 2pm in the village club: “The end of the line” 75 years since the closure of Blagdon’s railway. Sunday 10am-4pm with a talk at 11am. To book for the talks please email jackykerly@gmail.com

Monday November 3rd

Cheddar Valley Singers, Mondays 7pm Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Details: on Facebook or cheddarvalleysingers@gmail.com

Pensford Local History Group: “Whitaker’s War” by Garry Atterton, 7.30pm Pensford Memorial Hall, BS39 4HW. £3 incl refreshments. Details: pensfordhistorygroup@gmail.com

Bath NATS talk with Prof Tom Brereton “Cetaceans around the UK” 7 for 7.30pm BRSLI, 16 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HN. Visitors welcome £3.

Chew Valley Flower Club: Christmas Demonstration 6.30 for 7.30pm Compton Martin Village Hall. Visitors welcome £15 inc. seasonal refreshments. Details: 01275 835711. Congresbury Memorial Hall Club: Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome.

RAFA Mid-Somerset Meeting, talk by Australian member Brian Smith “Ged Ay All” – life in the

RAAF, 11am Wells Golf Club, BA5 3DS followed by future planning and lunch. Details: rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057.

Tuesday November 4th

Weston u3a meet for coffee 10am almost every Tuesday at the Friends Meeting House, 6 High St WsM BS23 1JF. All welcome!

The Arts Society Mendip talk: “The story of Bess of Hardwick and Hardwick Hall” by Dr Gillian White, 11am Croscombe Village Hall and via Zoom. Guests welcome, £10, on request to tasmendip.comm@gmail.com Details: www.theartssocietymendip.org.uk

Yatton Local History Society Zoom talk by Joe Rogers on Tithe Barns. Details: yattonlocalhistorysoc@gmail.com

Joyful Voices: fill your afternoon with song! Tuesdays 1.30-3pm Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Details: joyfulvoicesafternoon@gmail.com

“Follow the Plough” talk by Les Davies, 7.30pm Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton. www.radstockmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/our-talksprogramme/

The Chew Valley Hoard with Amal Khreisheh, senior curator at the SW Heritage Trust, 7.30pm Chew Valley School. Details: www.valleyarts.co.uk

Wednesday November 5th

Clevedon Gardener’s Club 1st and 3rd Wed. each month, 7.30pm Kenn Rd Methodist Church Hall BS21 6LH. Details: clevedongardeners.chessck.co.uk

Sing2breathe for breathlessness – learn techniques for breathing control and improved posture. 1.45 to 3pm most Weds (not Nov 12th), Cheddar Catholic Community Hall. Details: Kate: vocalkate@gmail.com 07595 745884.

Backwell & Nailsea Support Group for Carers Making Christmas Foliage Decorations 2-3.30pm WI Hall, Backwell.

“Caerleon & Caerwent” by Dr Peter Guest, 7.30pm Chew Magna Millenium Hall. £5. Raising funds to restore the Chew Magna Pound. To reserve seats email: rcade47@gmail.com

Rustic Basket willow weaving course, 10am-3pm Carymoor Environmental Trust, BA7 7NR. Funded places available, see: Find courses –Somerset Employment and Skills

Thursday November 6th

Chew Valley Death Café meets 12-1.30pm

Community Library Bishop Sutton, first Thurs every month. A safe supportive space to talk about life, death and loss over tea and cake. All welcome. Details: bryonyhuntley2019@gmail.com

Wells Scottish Dancers the Blue School Dance Studio BA5 2NR. Every Thurs 6.30–8.30pm. Beginners welcome. Tel 01934 740065 or email ann.wellsdancers@gmail.com

Paulton Folk Night 8.30pm Red Lion. Music, song and good company! Free. All welcome. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com

Draycott Art Club sessions 10am-1pm & 2-4pm every Thurs. 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 Priory Health Centre outpatients, Wells. Details: Kate: vocalkate@gmail.com 07595 745884. Joyful Spirit Choir meet every term time Thurs,

7.15pm Wrington Chapel, Ropers Lane BS40 5NH. All welcome! Details: joyfulspiritrehearsals@gmail.com

Congresbury Gardening Club talk by Greg Porter: “A short history of food growing”, 7-30pm, Congresbury Methodist Hall. Visitors welcome. www.congresburygardeningclub.com

RAFA Quiz Night 6 for 7pm at the Ad Astra Cider Farm Stone Allerton, BS26 2NG. Teams of six at £5pp. All welcome. Full Bar plus hot drinks and packet snacks. Details: paul.rolfe@adastracider.com or 07897 348119. Thursday November 6th and Saturday Nov 8th

Chew Valley Community Library’s Remembrance display: Poppies and books. The Link (former chapel) nr the PO, Bishop Sutton. Disabled access, rear car park. www.chewvalleylibrary.org.uk/ Friday November 7th-Sunday 9th

Backwell Village Club Beerfest, live music, 20 beers and ciders, 12noon Friday November 7th

Firm Roots Cancer Prayer & Support meets first Friday monthly 2.30-4pm Clevedon Baptist Church, Station Rd, BS21 6NH. A small friendly group for those affected by cancer. Details: www.firmroots.org.uk or call Kate 07505 580297. Radstock Folk Dance Club, every Friday 8-10pm St Peter's Church Hall, Westfield. Beginners welcome, partners not essential. £3 incl refreshments. heather.m.leverton@gmail.com

Wells Natural History & Archaeology Society talk by Tim Haselden of the Mendip National Landscape Team “Nature recovery on the Mendip Hills” 7pm Wells & Mendip Museum. Members free, Visitors welcome, £4 on door.

Getrude Lollipop’s Magic Flip Flops, fun show for U4’s. Bishop Sutton Library, 10.30am. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Bond – An Unauthorised Parody! 8pm Bishop Sutton Village Hall. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Saturday November 8th and Sunday 9th Big Arts Weekend East Harptree Theatre and Arts Hub. Details: artshubharptree.com Saturday November 8th

Uphill Village Market 9.30 -12.30, Victory Hall, Westfield Rd, BS23 4UH. Details: Leigh 01934 628373.

Brent Knoll Bazaar, Farmers’ Market & Parish Café 10am-12 Parish Hall, TA9 4EH. Blagdon Coffee Morning for Weston Hospicecare, 10am-12 at the village club. Writhlington Quiz Night 7 for 7.30pm at the village hall. £7pp, incl supper. All teams welcome, but please book with: Rob 07970 708216 or Helen 01761 420417. Details: Writhlington Flower Show Facebook page.

“Last Dance Saloon”, live theatre, 7.30pm Axe Vale Arts, West St. Axbridge BS26 2AA. Tickets £15 /£12 from www.ticketsource.co.uk/axe-valearts

Chew Magna: traditional Barn Dance/Ceilidh for all ages. Live music and caller, 7pm in the Church Hall. Bar. Tickets £15, incl supper, from Chew Magna PO.

Congresbury Singers with “Opera, Jazz & more” 7.30pm War Memorial Hall. Tickets £12 inc refreshments from the PO, Re:Store & on the door. Leigh-on-Mendip Winter Concert, an evening of

choral music raising funds for St Giles’ church, 6.30 for 7pm. Cash Bar. Details & tickets £10. Details: tinyurl.com/folc2025

Backwell’s Second Saturday Fair Trade Café. Backwell Parish Hall 10am to 12noon. Featuring the bulk-buy Grub Club.

Sunday November 9th

Clevedon & District Model Boat Club sail at Clevedon Marine Lake, 10am second Sunday monthly. All very welcome to come and join us to sail and chat! See: www.clevedonanddistrictmodelboatclub.co.uk

Super Silly Magic Show for ages 4-8. Temple Cloud Village Hall, 2pm. Details: www.valleyarts.co.uk

Monday November 10th

Mendip Folk Dance Club, 8-10pm St James’s Church Winscombe BS25 1BA. All welcome, 2nd 4th & 5th Mondays. £3 incl refreshments. Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Weston Civic Society: “Weston Fire Service –with a fire engine!” talk by Avon Fire & Rescue 7.30pm Weston Museum, BS23 1PR. £2 admission. www.westoncivicsociety.org.uk

Nailsea & District Local History Society talk by David Addis “Bristol & the Mulberry Harbour for Normandy 1944” 7.45pm Nailsea School, BS48 2HN. Visitors welcome £3. Details: 01275 463479 or www.ndlhs.org.uk

Priddy Folk Session 8.30pm Queen Victoria. Music, song and good company! Free. All welcome. Details: richardlm397@gmail.com

Norton Radstock u3a talk: “P.C Yvonne Fletcher & the Libyan Embassy Siege” 1.30pm-4pm Somer Centre, M. Norton BA3 2HU. Visitors welcome. Details www.norad.u3asite.uk

Winscombe Horticultural Society: “Roses” 7.30pm Winscombe Community Centre. Guests welcome, refreshments. Membership £10/year. Details: winscombeHS@outlook.com Tuesday November 11th

West of England Cricket Society talk by Daniel Norcross, raconteur and TMS commentator, 2pm Widcombe Social Club, Bath BA2 6AA. £5, cash only incl tea, coffee, biscuits. Bar available. Frome Selwood Horticultural Society talk by Jane Seaton: “The history of Kelways Nursery” 7.20 for 7.30pm Critchill School. BA11 4LD. Details: 0777 620 8531 jane.norris9@gmail.com

Timsbury Gardening Club: Stephen Lee ‘Autumnal Garden’ 7.30pm Conygre Hall, BA2 0JQ. Visitors welcome £2. Details: www.timsbury.org.uk/activities/environment/garde ning-club

Weston-s-Mare Archaeological & Nat. History Society: Wildlife of Brazil, Borneo and Mongolia by Tom Mabbett 7 for 7.30pm Friends Meeting House, High St. BS23 1JF. Visitors welcome £4 incl tea/coffee.

Shipham, Rowberrow & Star History Society: Clive Burlton: The Lost City (White City Barracks), 7.15 for 7.30pm Shipham Village Hall, BS25 1SG. Members £2; guests £4. Details: Jan 01934 260784.

Clutton History Group talk “Bristol in the 1930s and 1940s” by Mike Hooper 7.30pm village hall, Venus Lane, BS39 5SP. Visitors welcome, £5 incl refreshments. Details: 07341 266986 or Chris.border@live.co.uk

Jazz Jam with the Valley Arts House Band, 8pm The Pelican, Chew Magna. Details: www.valleyarts.co.uk

Wednesday November 12th

Bereavement Help Point, Shepton Mallet: an informal, supportive space to meet others who may

be experiencing similar feelings. All welcome. Free drop-in, 10-11.45am, Shepton Brasserie, 64 High St. Details: 0345 0310 555 or dorothyhouse.co.uk

Wells Folk & Barn Dance Club 7.30-9.30pm St Thomas’s Church Hall, BA5 2UZ. All welcome: 2nd, 3rd & 4th Wed most months. Details: wellsfdc.co.uk

Blagdon Local History Society: Redcliffe Film’s Hannah More, 7.30 pm Village Club BS40 7TA. Visitors welcome. Details: jackykerly@gmail.com

Kilmersdon Gardeners Club talk by Sally Nex “A rogue’s gallery for gardeners” 7.30pm village hall BA3 5TD. Visitors welcome £3 inc refreshments. Details www.kilmersdongardeners.org

Cameo (Come and meet each other) talk “Medical detection dogs – saving lives” 7.30pm Congresbury Methodist Hall. £2 incl tea, coffee, biscuit. All welcome.

Mendip Storytelling Circle, stories for a grownup audience 7-30 to 9-30pm Ston Easton Village Hall, Green St, BA3 4DA. Story books for sale, cash only. www.mendipstorycircle.com

Thursday November 13th

Curry Lunch for the RNLI 12 for 12.30 Ubley Parish Hall. Booking essential! Tickets £17.50 from rnlichewvalley@gmail.com

Chew Valley Garden Society talk via Zoom by Rosemary Legrand: ‘The Gardens of Bhutan’, followed by Q&A. Group viewing 8pm Stanton Drew Village Hall. Details: 01275 333456. “Rock the Tots!” 11am Chew Magna Baptist Chapel. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Friday November 14th

Keynsham AWT talk by Nick Patel, “Hairstreak Butterflies” 7.15 for 7.30pm Baptist Church Keynsham BS31 1DS. Members £3.50. Visitors welcome £5, incl drink.

Shipham Charity Lunch, 12.30pm village hall, fortnightly. Soup, bread, cheese, pickle, tea/coffee, biscuits. £5.50, U5s free. For Save the Children. “I don’t have a maths GCSE” Mia Borthwick’s musical comedy journey. 8pm Old School Rooms, Chew Magna. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Saturday November 15th

Frome Society for Local Study talk by Andrew Ziminski “Church going: a Stonemason’s guide” 2.30pm Frome Memorial Theatre Assembly Rooms. Visitors welcome, £5. Details: www.fsls.org.uk

Claverham Market: 10am to 12 Village Hall. Butcher, veg, crafts etc 01934 830553.

Attila the Stockbroker, punk poet/musician, 7.30pm Axe Vale Arts, West St. Axbridge BS26 2AA. Tickets £10 (£12 on door) from www.ticketsource.co.uk/axe-vale-arts

Shepton Men’s Shed Open Day 10am-3pm Unit 8, Charlton Trading Estate, BA4 5QE. Refreshments.

Winscombe Community Singers concert “Autumn Colours” 7pm Church Centre, 52 Woodborough Rd, BS25 1BA. Tickets: Eventbrite, incl mulled wine & mince pie.

Lady Nade sings folk, soul, jazz and blues, 7.30pm Bishop Sutton Village Hall. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Sunday November 16th

The Time Seekers family theatre for ages 3-8. St. Andrews Church Hall, Chew Magna, 11am & 2pm. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Monday November 17th

Timsbury Nats talk by Ron Howell: “Bees” 7.30pm Conygre Hall BA2 0JQ. Visitors welcome £5. U16s accompanied by an adult free.

Tuesday November 18th

Arts Society Mid Somerset talk ‘Go crystal tears: the art of melancholy’ 11am Caryford Hall Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. Coffee from 10.15. Visitors £8. Compton Dando Craft Day: craft in company, 10-4pm village hall, BS39 4JZ. £8 incl lunch. Details: hdottridge@hotmail.com 01761 490445. Wrington Local History Society: “Advertisements – a social history” talk by Mike Hooper 7.30 for 8pm Wrington URC Chapel, Roper's Lane, BS40 5NF. All welcome, visitors £2.50 incl tea/coffee. Details: osmansteve@yahoo.co.uk

Wednesday November 19th

Henton & District Gardening Club talk: “All things houseplants” by a Gold Club speaker, 7 for 7.30pm Henton Village Hall. Visitors welcome, £5. Details www.hentongardenclub.weebly.com Mendip Gardening Club talk by "Higgy": Garden design for wildlife. 7 for 7.30pm Ston Easton village hall BA3 4DA. Details: 01761 453654.

“The work of YACWAG” by Tony Moulin, 2.15 for 2.30pm Weston Museum for the Friends of Weston Museum. Members £2, visitors £4 incl refreshments. Details: www.yacwag.org.uk

FOWM Facebook page or David 01934 876670.

The Mendip Society Walk: Management and Fungi at Hellenge Hill reserve, nr Bleadon, with Avon Wildlife Trust, 11am-1pm. Details & to book: www.themendipsociety.org.uk/walks-andevents

Chew Valley Area Forum, Chew Valley School, BS40 8QB, 6-8pm. Details: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/chew-valley-areaforum

Thursday November 20th

Yatton & District Horticultural Society “the National Garden Scheme” by David Moon 7.30pm Hangstones, Stowey Rd, BD49 4HS.

Shipham & District Garden Club talk by Kate Baldock, “Christmas Floristry” 7.30pm Shipham village hall, BS25 1SG. Wrington Gardening Club “Not just compost” by Toby Thomas, 7.30pm Memorial Hall BS40 5QL. Visitors £3.

Friday November 21st

North Somerset Quilters: Christmas decorations hand sewing evening, 7.30pm Backwell WI Hall, Station Rd., BS48 3QW Visitors welcome £7. Details Karen 01275 463119.

Frome Christmas lights switch-on & lantern parade from 6pm. Details: www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk

The Bristol Ensemble “City Breaks” musical tour, 7.30pm St. Andrews Church, Chew Magna. Details: www.valley-arts.co.uk

Saturday November 22nd

Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books & Jigsaws etc.

Winter Dance across the decades with Vintage Cheddar Rock Band, 7 for 7.30pm Cheddar village hall. Details: 07762 702721.

North Somerset Philharmonia concert: Mendelssohn, Khachaturian, Borodin, Britten, Shostakovich, 7.30pm Gordano School. Details and tickets: www.nsphilharmonia.org.uk

Tunley Craft Fayre, 10am-2pm Recreation Ground, BA2 0DZ. Entry 50p. Details: 07724 917121.

Chorale21 presents an evening of music to celebrate St Ceclia’s Day. St John's Glastonbury, 7pm. Tickets: £15, on the door by card or cash. No charge for under 16s, Programmes: £3. Continued overleaf

Boosting the local economy

MENDIP Activity Centre generated £3.26 million for the local economy and supported 122 jobs last year, according to new research. It shows the centre, a part of the Mendip Adventure group, is a major economic driver for the North Somerset and wider Mendip Hills area.

In the year to February 2025, the site welcomed 108,000 visitors, delivering a total of 165,000 visitor days.

The report says the centre generated £1.16 million in direct visitor spending in the local area, including food, drink, retail and transport and £2.1 million in additional supply chain and wagebased spending.

David Eddins, CEO of Mendip Adventure said: “I was shocked to read the results of this report! As an independent and family-run business, we’re proud to be delivering year-round jobs, driving footfall to local businesses and giving families, schools, and groups unforgettable experiences and inspiring adventures.

“This report validates the importance of tourism and experiencebased businesses to the local and national economy.”

Saturday November 22nd and Sunday Nov 23rd

The Mendip Christmas Fair, Aldwick Estate, Redhill, BS40 5AL. Entry £5. Over 35 Stalls. Homemade refreshments. Details: www.mendipchristmasfair.org

Monday November 24th

Congresbury Memorial Hall Club: Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome.

Norton Radstock u3a Coffee morning 10am-12 Somer Centre. M. Norton BA3 2HU. Visitors welcome. Details www.norad.u3asite.uk

Tuesday November 25th

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. Chilcompton Gardening Club: Holistic Wellbeing, with Michelle Bentley, mulled wine and mince pies. 7.30pm village hall, BA3 4EX. Details on Facebook

Wells & District Wildlife Group: talk by Allison Uren: “The wildlife of the Avalon Marshes” 7:30pm Wells Museum. Details: www.wdwg.org.uk or 07415 350062.

Wednesday November 26th

Bereavement Help Point, Shepton Mallet: an informal, supportive space to meet others who may be experiencing similar feelings. All welcome. Free drop-in, 10-11.45am, 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

Backwell & Nailsea Macular

Support meeting 1.30pm Backwell WI Hall. Details: Sheila 01275 462107.

Harptrees History Society: “Recent finds from Somerset” with Laura Beckwith, Finds Liaison Officer, Somerset Heritage Centre. Visitors £3. Book from 12th Nov by email: info@harptreeshistorysociety.org

Subject line “Nov 2025”

Thursday November 27th

Chew Magna: Avon Wildlife Trust illustrated talk about the “Avon Needs Trees” landscape recovery project by Vicki Cracknell of ANT, 7.45pm Old School Rooms, £2.50. Refreshments.

Thursday November 27th to Sat

Nov 29th

‘The Compton Martin Secret School of Wizardry’ panto starring Darwin the dragon with Compton Martin Players, at the village hall. Details on Facebook. Tickets £8-£13 from Paul: 07538 706446.

Craft4Crafters and Stitching4All Show, Bath and West Showground, 9.30-4pm. Details:

craft4crafters.co.uk

Friday November 28th

Shipham Charity Lunch 12.30pm village hall, fortnightly. Soup, bread, cheese, pickle, tea/coffee, biscuits. £5.50, U5s free. For Save the Children.

Camelot Area u3a talk by Andy Hamilton, ‘First Time Forager’ 2.30pm Caryford Hall, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. Non-members welcome, £3 incl refreshments. Details www.camelot-area.u3asite.uk Mendip Society talk on the work of Secret World Wildlife Rescue and Christmas social, incl refreshments, 6.45 for 7pm Bishop Sutton Village Hall. Members free, non-members £5. Details: www.themendipsociety.org.uk/walksand-events

Whitchurch Local History Society: ‘How did I get here – a life in history and publishing’ with Clive Burlton, 7.30pm URC, 24 Bristol Rd, BS14 0PT. Visitors £4. Details 01275 830869.

Saturday November 29th

Chew Stoke Table-top Sale: crafts, cards, toys, cakes and more! 10am12, Village Hall. Refreshments. To book a table (£15) contact hazelwedlake@gmail.com or 01275 332812. For the church heating appeal.

Wells Repair Café, 10am-12.30 St Thomas's Church Hall BA5 2UZ. Bring clean, broken items of all kinds and our volunteers will do their best to fix them. Bring leads/chargers. All welcome. Details on Facebook or: repaircafe.wells@gmail.com

Frome Society for Local Study talk by Paul Simons “Bath’s Second World Heritage inscription as one of UNESCO’S Great Spa towns of Europe” 2.30pm Frome Memorial Theatre Assembly Rooms. Visitors welcome, £5. Details: www.fsls.org.uk

West Mendip Orchestra autumn concert, with Yatton Music Society, 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Yatton, BS49 4HH. Details: www.westmendip-orchestra.org.uk

Congresbury Christmas Sale: includes paintings and other crafts, plants and cakes. 10am-12 in the Methodist Hall. Raising funds for St Andrew’s. Entry £2.

Carolling & Crumpets with John Kirkpatrick 3pm Chew Magna Baptist Chapel. Details: www.valleyarts.co.uk Mendip Connections conference, Shipham village hall, 10am-1pm, bringing local projects together. Details: mendip@mendiphillsnl.org.uk 01761 462338.