Mendiptimes - Volume 10 - Issue 1

Mendip Times

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Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

JUNE 2014

OUR NINTH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE!

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Telephone: 01761 417654 Facsimile: 01761 417207 email: office@techniglaze.co.uk www.techniglaze.co.uk

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

IT’S our ninth birthday – and we are celebrating with yet another bumper edition. The sun has been shining and we’ve been out enjoying some of the many shows that our area stages at this time of the year.

It was good to meet so many of our readers at our stand at the North Somerset Show – we have a picture special this month – and we will be out and about at the Royal Bath and West Show. We also offer you the chance this month to win tickets to Yeovilton Air Day. The dozens of events that take place show what a special community spirit there is across the Mendip area, also demonstrated in our extensive charities and community pages. We preview the Winscombe and Sandford Festival, last staged four years ago, which will have 60 different attractions and events during the two weeks it is on.

Elsewhere we visit the village that has special reason to commemorate the DDay landings and celebrate the success of some of our local companies at the Taste of the West awards. June MacFarlane will stir memories with some old wartime recipes.

Mary Payne explains how to get the best scents from your garden while Dr Phil Hammond has some advice on how to measure your likely lifespan.

Our advice would be to live on or around Mendip. Thanks once again to our advertisers and readers for their support.

July 2014 deadline: Friday, 13th June 2014.

Published: Tuesday, 24th June 2014.

Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk Marjorie Page marjorie@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 or: letters@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: Precision Colour Printing, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Copyright of editorial content held by Mendip Times Ltd. and its contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the Publisher. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the publisher or its associates.

Front cover: Designed by Steve Henderson

28

Watch the birdie – Chew Magna goes quackers

73

Village stalwarts – Owen and Fred’s special day

76

Wings and a prayer – historic motors head for Wells

93

And they’re off – the Pony Club jockeys ready to ride

Plus all our regular features Environment...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE..........10 Food & Drink...............................16 Internet and Crossword..............27 Arts & Antiques ...........................30 Business ........................................42 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......53 Walking Sue Gearing....................54 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........56 Gardening Mary Payne MBE ......58

Health Dr Phil Hammond.............68 Community Simon Selby .............72 Property........................................77 Caving Phil Hendy........................75 Charities .......................................78 Homes and Interiors....................82 Riding Celia Gadd ........................90 Music.............................................94 Sport..............................................95 What’s On ..................................101 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 3

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MENDIP TIMES

The end of a chapter

TRIBUTES have been paid to Francis Disney, a retired prison officer and official historian for Shepton Mallet jail, who has died aged 83.

Francis, who spent 15 years at the prison before retiring in 1990, became an expert on life inside HMP Cornhill, which first opened in the early17th Century and closed last year as part of a Government spending review.

His books – Heritage of A Prison and Shepton Mallet Prison 380 Years Of Prison Regimes – were hugely popular and proceeds from their sales and the numerous lectures he gave raised thousands of pounds for the Dorothy House Hospice. Francis, of Shepton Mallet, used to act as escort for Maureen Shearn when she visited the prison to teach crafts to inmates. Francis also taught basic piano. Maureen said: “I never once heard him shout at anyone. He was a very gentle man who was genuinely concerned for the prisoners’ welfare.

“He was very proud of the prison and would have loved to have seen some sort of museum in there.”

Francis had been suffering from cancer for several months but rang Maureen two months ago to have a chat. Maureen added: “He just wanted to speak to me; it was almost as if he was saying goodbye. It was so sweet of him.”

Chris Norman, a member of the Shepton Mallet History Group, said: “The greatest tribute to Francis is the fact that he was so keen to document the history of the prison and was able to do so. Without his efforts, that history would almost certainly have been lost forever.”

Wedmore celebrates

ST GEORGE would have been delighted that a patriotic charity evening organised by Mendip Rotary & Inner Wheel Clubs raised nearly £1,700 for local charities as the 100 people present ate, sang, and danced in truly English style.

It was a night to remember as a four-course meal was followed by the singing of There’ll Always be an England and other patriotic songs. Then everyone enthusiastically danced the ‘knight’ away to the music of the Jazzy Police.

Most of the food was donated, prepared and served by club members. The event raised £1,675 which will be shared between Children’s Hospice South West, the West of England MS Therapy Centre, and the Avon & Somerset Search & Rescue Team.

Farewell to Judith

NEWS

JUDITH Plucknett celebrated her last day as Paulton’s parish clerk after 33 years with tributes paid by parish councillors.

Chairman, Les Wild, said: “Judith has been so much a part of Paulton Parish Council and the progress we’ve made, including becoming a ‘quality council’. This means we’re one of the best in the country, if not the best! Paulton will not be the same without her and she will be sorely missed.”

Graham Dix, who was chair of Paulton Parish Council when Judith first started, was delighted to be there when she retired.

Judith was given a bouquet of flowers and a painting by local artist, Terry Bridgeman, who is also a parish councillor.

Royal visit

WESTON-super-Mare RNLI enjoyed a royal visit from the Duke of Kent, the charity’s president, who met volunteer lifeboat crew at their station at Knightstone Harbour.

RNLI chairman, Charles Hunter-Pease, said the construction of a new station was a key priority. The temporary station at Knightstone was established when Birnbeck Pier became too dangerous to use.

The duke made two presentations, the first to Peter Holder, in recognition of 40 years’ service with the charity, and the second to Richard Spindler, Deputy Launching Authority, who received a long service badge with a 30 year bar. Richard will have spent 50 years volunteering for the RNLI in 2015.

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MENDIP TIMES Quarrying in Holcombe in 1956

Stones and stories

THE geology of Mendip and some of the stories behind its quarrying history took centre stage at a special event in Frome.

Stones and Stories was organised by the Quarry Faces, a Heritage Lottery-funded community project, which staged its largest exhibition at Frome Museum. Visitors to the exhibition, which closed in mid-May, donated more photographs to a remarkable collection dating back to the mid-19th century, including photos from long-closed Hapsford and Vallis Vale quarries.

Quarry Faces historian Robin Thornes (left) admires a collection of quarrying photos owned by Alan Eyles, a retired engineer from Midsomer Norton who worked at many of Mendip’s quarries for Sugg Bros. Engineering of Shepton Mallet

Ed Bailey, head of geology at Aggregate Industries (left) and Stephen Thomas, a Quarry Faces project volunteer and enthusiastic rock and fossil collector from Nunney, with two young visitors to the exhibition PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

The exhibition at Frome Museum was the largest organised to date

by Quarry Faces

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Flood support – the work continues

THE Somerset floods may have receded but the need for volunteers to help with the recovery in the affected areas remains as great as ever, say charity workers.

Somerset Emergency Volunteers is coordinating the efforts to get farmers and villagers back on their feet in communities such as Moorland. Each day, around 25 people have been turning up to assist those affected by flooding, doing everything from cleaning houses and removals, to gardening and DIY. Somerset County Council is now funding SEV, based in the Old School Building at Burrowbridge. The group is a

Farmwatch extended

POLICE have stepped up their Farmwatch anti-crime initiative in areas affected by the floods as part of a new region-wide campaign. Superintendent Ian Wylie, the force lead on rural crime, said: “We are primarily a rural police force and we need to respond to the needs of our communities. We understand rural crime has a huge impact on both individuals and the local economy and whilst it is falling, it still cost the UK £43m in 2012.

“We are already working closely with farmers and rural communities and over the past six months we have been talking directly to them to discuss the issues that concern them the most and ways we can improve our service. Launching the rural crime team is a direct result of those conversations.

“Farmers need to know that we understand the long-term effect that

joint project between Mendip Community Support and South Somerset Association for Voluntary and Community Action.

Paula Blight, from MCS, said: “Some people are able to get on and do what they need themselves but others need a bit of help, be it getting rid of a flood damaged sofa or putting up a new fence in their garden.”

SEV also organises regular large volunteering efforts by businesses, groups and schools, where bus-loads of helpers are brought in to carry out specific tasks.

These have ranged from clearing ditches and planting flowers to making lunches to

ENVIRONMENT feed the army of volunteers. Paula added: “We’d love to invite a restaurant or café or even a celebrity chef to make a guest appearance one day and cater for all the helpers.”

Councillor John Osman, Leader of Somerset County Council, said: “The overwhelming desire of the public to help has been the major positive to come out of these terrible floods. The challenge was to harness all the goodwill, and I’m sure now we’ve funded a dedicated co-ordination group it will really help to get these wonderful volunteers in the places where they are most needed.”

Supt. Ian Wylie was joined by Avon and Somerset police and crime commissioner Sue Mountstevens at the launch of the extended Farmwatch campaign. They visited Mary and Brian Hutchings at Battens Farm at Moorland which was badly affected by the floods. The couple are currently living in a static caravan and were forced to sell most their herd

crime can have on their business and day-to-day working environment. We know that whilst the theft or damage to an electric fence or battery might have a

relatively low direct cost, the implications of the fence being down and the consequences in terms of livestock and crops can be huge.”

PSCOs Lora Bray and George Long property marking at Battens Farm

(l:r): PC Katy Drabble, based at Bridgwater, Sgt. Stuart Williams, Supt. Ian Wylie and PC Rowan Hawkins, based at Shepton Mallet

You can contact SEV by calling the Burrowbridge base on 01823 698300 or emailing info@somersetev.org.uk. Or you can keep up to date with the team’s activities by following @SomersetEV on Twitter or visiting the Somerset Emergency Volunteers Facebook page.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 7

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MENDIP TIMES

Turbine gets thumbs down from villagers

M E N D I P

W E A T H E R

S C E N E

AN overwhelming majority of people who attended a consultation meeting to discuss a proposed wind turbine at Laverton, near Norton St Philip were against the plans, protestors claimed.

The “No2WindFarm” action group conducted an exit straw poll of the 168 people at the public meeting at Palairet Hall and recorded 165 that were not in favour of the scheme.

The action group has even won the support of The Wurzels, who have produced a new single “The Mendip Windfarm Song” which highlights the proliferation of wind farm applications in the west.

If approved, the turbine at Laverton, would be built by Distribution Generation (DistGen), based in Long Ashton, which recently completed a similar project at Wanstrow.

A statement from the protestors after the meeting, which was also attended by David Warburton, the Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Somerton and Frome, said: “The opinion of those members of the public attending was that whilst we collectively acknowledge the issues we face and the importance of renewable energy as part of the solution, it should not be at the expense of; our rural community, our natural amenities, our historic buildings (such as The George in Norton St Philip) and to the detriment of the countryside in our villages that is acclaimed as our National treasures from visitors and commentators alike.”

Meanwhile, residents of Maesbury, between Wells and Shepton Mallet, are celebrating after The Planning Inspectorate rejected two appeals over wind turbine proposals.

In his appeal decision, planning Inspector Paul Griffiths said

May – you never know

WITH the month of May “book-ended” by two bank holidays, the subject of the weather is never far from most people’s lips.

A barbecue, a trip to the seaside or finding somewhere in the dry to keep the kids occupied for a few rainy hours? with DAVID Last month, I wrote about the MAINE variations in the weather around Easter time; generally the May bank holidays have a completely different weather complexion than at Easter, with generally less variable weather. The early May bank holiday this year, for example, was fairly typical for the time of year, the weekend being dry but fairly cold at night, with the rain not arriving until the Monday evening. What a boon to farmers who were able to get in an early cut of silage!

The late spring bank holiday falls in the middle of what is often one of the more settled periods in the year, although this is of course not guaranteed. Anyone who attends regularly the annual Priddy Friendly Society or Westbury-sub-Mendip Friendly Society roll calls and celebrations can vouch for the vagaries the weather can throw at us!

At this time of the year high pressure tends to favour a position to the north or northwest of the UK, with east or northeast winds over much of the country. East coastal

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ENVIRONMENT

Thumbs down from the No2 WindFarm action group

his decisions turned on the harm both turbines would cause to the setting and significance of Maesbury Castle, the area’s Scheduled Ancient Monument.

A spokesman for AATOM – Action Against Turbines on Mendip – said: “Words cannot express our delight that common sense has prevailed.

“Any wind turbine in this beautiful part of Mendip would have been an obscenity. There are many other reasons why we fought against it as well as protection for the hill fort, particularly the appalling effect on residents and the wonderful scenic views across the Mendip escarpment.”

Last year’s Priddy Friendly Society procession makes its way through the village to the church

areas can sometimes be quite cold and grey in this situation whilst some lovely weather can occur over the northwest highlands of Scotland making it a favourite time for a walking or climbing holiday.

On Mendip? Well, we usually have rather better, drier weather in a northeasterly situation than if the wind is from the west or southwest. As I write this in mid-May we shall have to wait and see how it turns out, of course, but there is always hope of some good weather at the end of May and into June – in time for the Royal Bath and West Show and then the Glastonbury Festival. But that is another story.

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Our Services Include: Commercial and Residential Property Wills and Probate Litigation and Personal Injury Criminal and Family Law Agricultural, Business and Commercial Employment Shepton Mallet: 57 High Street, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5AQ. Tel: 01749 343091

Glastonbury: 11 Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8DL. Tel: 01458 832510

Welcome to summer everyone. It must have arrived at last because whilst writing this it is pouring with rain.

If summer is here, can the Bath & West Show be far behind? As in recent years we will be at the show and sponsoring “Power of the Past”, wonderful old vintage tractors and commercial vehicles. As usual we will have our tent near the entrance to the section and look forward to meeting friends old and new for a chat and a cooling glass of wine or warming cup of tea on what will hopefully be a balmy early summer day.

We hope it will not be just the freebies that attract you but among the usual pens and bits of literature this year we will have balloons for our young future clients too. e Bath & West Show is still very much an agricultural show and we are proud of our reputation in agricultural matters but don’t forget we have a wide spread of expertise as shown by the list on the left. Come and see us at the show, let’s share a few minutes together and if you have questions on legal matters, now is your chance to answer them.

You will also have the opportunity of meeting our newly appointed private client solicitor Karen Lucas on at least one of the show days. She will be joining us just a few days beforehand.

Bring the grandchildren for the balloons. Have faith; bring the factor 30 and the sun hat. We look forward to seeing you.

Castle Cary: Old Bank House, High Street, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7AW. Tel: 01963 350888

Cheddar: Roley House, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3RA. Tel: 01934 745400

Website: www.bgw.uk.com

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MENDIP TIMES

Spend a day on the farm

FOLLOWING their award-winning display at the North Somerset Show, the team behind the Fernhill Farm Experience are throwing open their doors for an open day on Saturday, June 14th.

Andy Wear and Jen Hunter have been developing historic Fernhill Farm – based above Compton Martin – as an ecovenue for their The team at the North Somerset growing events business.

Show The open day – which is free – will showcase two new sideshoots to the Fernhill Farm ethos: www.Projectbeanstalk.org.uk provides therapeutic farm residential activities incorporating animal, horticultural and craft therapy sessions whilst they have also formalised their Natural Fibre workshops by joining forces with Emma Hague who is www.workingwool.co.uk Jen is currently working on her Nuffield Farming Scholarship project “Wool processing with a Modern Twist”.

Jen said: “We considered this to be an ideal opportunity to open up the gates again for a no-fee, no-fuss open day.”

01749 850258 • WWW.READAGRI.CO.UK WANSTROW BA4 4SY OPEN: MON–FRI 8-6 SAT 8-2

YOUR LOCAL COUNTRY STORE – FOR ALL YOUR GARDEN SUPPLIES!

SEE US AT THE ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW – STAND 349

Curse of the supermarkets

THE North Somerset Young Farmers choir came fourth in the national competition, a very creditable performance since these young people had not sung in a choir before.

Congratulations to their musical director, farmer’s wife Anita Simmonds, who put in so much of her time to get them to performance With MARY level. Glamorgan YFC were the winners. By JAMES MBE all accounts everyone who went to the national AGM in Blackpool had a wonderful time.

This year at the Royal Bath and West Show there is more emphasis than ever on local food with a special tent for those who are just starting out to produce a new product. It is not easy to get started with all the regulations involved. The one lesson that all local producers have learnt is that it is difficult to deal with the supermarkets.

Many have tried but they have to become big enough producers to supply the large quantities the supermarket requires. So is the supermarket friend or foe? Well, they have gobbled up the high street businesses in most towns and villages and they nail their producers and suppliers to the floor on price.

The power of the supermarket is frightening. The consumer gains because everything is under one roof but local food is not available. Here in our area there are several farm shops and customers will travel out to them. I recently spoke to a couple living in Warrington who had no access to any food shop other than a supermarket.

Have you noticed that British beef and lamb is still expensive but the price to the farmer has fallen, so inevitably there are beef farmers going out of the business. It has to be more imports but that is another subject. I noticed on a website ‘Consumer appetite for fresh beef and lamb increases’ so that’s good news. I also noticed a new consumer website to get people cooking with beef and lamb so you may like to have a look at www.simplybeefandlamb.co.uk After some time saying I would never join Facebook I have succumbed and find I enjoy the photos and comments. My own contribution with photos is rather spasmodic as I rely on my 13year-old granddaughter to teach me how to do it, but she lives in Wales!

Nevertheless I may find some photos at the Royal Bath and West Show to put on – especially the winner of the Farm Woman of the Year Award which has attracted some very strong entries.

More about that next time.

Experience an Arcadian place to stay…

Saturday, June 14th 2014

LEAF BLOWERS HUSQVARNA SPADES LAWN MOWERS AUTOMOWERS AND WHEELBARROWS MITOX MULTI TOOL RIDE-ON LAWN SECATEURS STRIMMERS MOWERS WILD BIRD SEED HEDGE TRIMMERS IN STOCK AND MUCH MORE

Free Entry Enjoy an interactive day on the farm (10am-4pm) Activities include: shearing displays and wool workshops, willow crafts, kitchen and garden projects and introducing: e Mendip Games!

An intimate evening under the stars (4pm-late) Campfire, food and drink, the day’s creative contributions, music and more (accommodation available) Fernhill Farm, Cheddar Road, Compton Martin, BS40 6LD. www.fernhill-farm.co.uk • e-mail: mail@fernhill-farm.co.uk Tel: 07817 447848

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Showing ambition

FARMING

ORGANISERS of the Mid Somerset Show are confident that the variety of attractions on offer this August will attract an even bigger crowd than last year’s event.

An estimated 15,000 people packed the showground at Shepton Mallet last August to enjoy the sights and sounds of the one-day event.

Among the highlights of the show are the South West Cheese Awards. Now in their fourth year, the awards are quickly becoming a major event in the dairy industry calendar. This year’s awards are sure to be even bigger and better with 76 different classes, showcasing the finest cheese makers in the area.

Ex-Coronation Street actor turned cheese guru Sean Wilson

will be again be one of the judges. Sean will also be hosting a new cookery demonstration area in this year’s cheese marquee. He said: “I am delighted to have been asked back to judge at the South West Cheese Awards. I’m looking forward to launching the Mid Somerset Show’s first cookery demonstration. It will be a lot of fun and hopefully interest a lot of people.”

The main musical act this year will be The Manglewurzels who will play two sets during the day. The popular Acoustic Tent will also return and organisers are keen to hear from anyone who would be interested in performing. People visiting the Members’ Marquee will be serenaded by the Grey Dogs Jazz Band.

YOUNG people with a nose for the unusual are being invited to enter a fun competition to become a cheese judge for the day.

Organisers have thrown down the gauntlet to 7-14 year-olds to come up with the “cheesiest” joke and the one which makes the judges groan most will be able to rub shoulders with chef and cheesemaker Sean Wilson during the South West Cheese Awards.

Sight, smell, touch and taste – The winner will receive what the judges are looking for four tickets for lunch in the Somerset Show Members’ Marquee along with a luxury food hamper and be treated like a celebrity themselves.

But what does it take to be a good judge of cheese? Nigel Pooley, chairman of the South West Cheese Awards, is one of the world’s experts. His career in the dairy industry goes back more than 50 years and he has been a professional cheese taster and grader for 30 of them.

Here are his tips on how to use your fingers, eyes and nose – Nigel’s expert nose is insured for £5 million by his employers Wyke Farm Cheese – when it comes to judging any hard cheese: G Grading is best carried out in the mornings when your senses are at their freshest and most reactive G Take your cheese iron (the tool experts use to draw a “core” of cheese from the block), push well in, turn and extract G Take your first sniff of the cheese, inhaling the “volatiles” of its smells G Turn the iron over and look on the back; you’re looking for a good, smooth amount of fat G Take a good look at the texture of the cheese keeping an eye out for openness or discolouration. It should be smooth and creamy-yellow G Push the sample from the iron, breaking off the end then break it down between your fingers. Not only can you judge its texture, but it also warms it up releasing more aromas G Taste! It’s not just about first impressions, although that can

you tell a lot. But after chewing, you should experience the rounded flavours, complexities and the good finish of an expertly-made cheese G Entries for the cheesiest joke can be sent to the show organisers in various ways: e-mail: (secretary@midsomersetshow.org.uk), twitter: tweet your jokes with the hashtag #cheesyjoke to @Midsomersetshow or via their Facebook wall: like the show’s Facebook page and post your joke on there. Entries can also be posted to the Show Secretary, 3 Europa Court, Crown Trading Estate, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 5QQ.

Cheese judging is no joke – or is it?

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 11

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MENDIP TIMES

A jousting display entertains the crowds around the main arena

Wedmore in action

A full house for the pony club games

Scott and Sophie from Bristol get up close and personal

These two Charolais cattle were representing the Martland Herd, from Woolavington PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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NORTH SOMERSET AGRICULTURAL SHOW Dave Tucker, from Nailsea, attends to a 1919 Fowler K7 ploughing engine owned by Graham Thomas

Harry Stamp, from Mark, prepares to enter the young handlers’ ring with a Suffolk ewe lamb

Tractor pulling was a big attraction

Alan Lyons, show manager for the Royal Bath and West Show, indulges in another passion: sheep judging. He is pictured with Christine Nugent and her Greyface Dartmoor ewe and lamb

Terrier racing in the Countryside Arena

Nick Hill and daughter Lottie with their champion award presented by show governor Henry Butler, of Flax Bourton

Next generation: Oliver Garner (centre), from West Huntstpill, is pictured with hedgelayers Malcolm Dowling and James Bircham MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 13

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MENDIP TIMES

Dear Mendip Times, The Somerset Wildlife Trust is extremely grateful for the support that was given towards the Plant Sale and Open Garden held at Rookery House, the Causeway, Mark, on May 3rd..

The magnificent and record sum of over £3,200 was raised and all will be used in Somerset “Protecting Wildlife for the Future”.

Thanks go to everyone who was able to help either by providing plants, cakes and raffle prizes or by assisting in the organisation of the event and on the day, and by coming to buy.

Over 300 people attended and enjoyed the garden and refreshments in, on the day itself, good weather.

Thanks also to Gill Isgar and Mark and Ricky Popham for the use of the field as the car park – this of course is absolutely essential for this event at this location.

This was tabled as the major fund-raising event for the Mendip Hills Area Group of the Somerset Wildlife Trust and this event has achieved that goal.

Yours, Norman Lees

Dear Mendip Times, Bath & North East Somerset Council currently fund The Village Agents scheme and are increasing the areas covered. I am pleased that this will now include the parishes of Timsbury and Farrington Gurney.

I am the new Village Agent. The parishes that I am also responsible for are Compton Dando, Burnett, Pensford, Chelwood, Corston, Marksbury Farmborough and Woollard.

Our team offer a confidential service to the elderly, vulnerable and isolated, to stay independent in their own homes by linking them with excellent professional services such as Age UK, VisionPLUS, DeafPLUS, the Independent Living Service and many others.

Transport we know is a recurring issue for isolated people without a car or family to help them out. We would like to know whether Community Transport (Dial a Ride) services operate successfully in your area or are people unaware of this door to door option.

If you have any further queries or would like to know more about the Village Agent Scheme please do not hesitate to call the office on 01275 333700 which will take a message on my behalf.

Ken Webb Village Agent West of England Rural Network Mobile tel: 07919006708 Office tel: 01275 333700 PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

LETTERS

Dear Mendip Times, I just wanted to write to the Mendip Times to let you know what a beautiful walk we had last Saturday (May 3rd) afternoon, thanks to Sue Gearing.

My husband, eight-year-old son and myself followed the walk from the May edition based in Compton Dando, starting with a very nice lunch at the Compton Inn which, again, was recommended by Sue. The walk took us by mill ponds, complete with little ducklings, through bluebell carpeted woodland, by streams, through fields of brilliant yellow rape and down quiet country lanes. It was an area we had not visited despite only living in Cheddar and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you.

Mrs Jo Davies Cheddar

Dear Mendip Times, Thank you for your article in Mendip Times about our Lambing Live event at Scaddon’s Farm at Easter.

We raised the grand total of £2,500 which has been divided between The Royal Bath and West Society for the Somerset Farmer’s Recovery Fund and the Farming Community Network for farmers affected by the devastating floods on the Somerset Levels.

Thank you to all who helped, contributed and came to the farm and donated so generously.

I am sure I have missed this edition. Sorry, a bit busy with the sheep!!

Yours, Diana and David Ginger, Scaddons Farm, Rodney Stoke

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Young writers

THOMAS Manning , aged nine, of Wedmore First School and Aidan Nicholls, aged 14, of Kings of Wessex School, Cheddar, are winners of Mendip Rotary Club’s local heat of rotary’s Young Writers Competition.

Sponsored by Avon Valley Engineering, the local heats were organised by Rotarian Maggie Steel. After the presentation Mrs Steel said: “The team of judges, led by children’s author Sue Purkiss, were impressed by the creative writing talent of the many local children who entered.

“Next year we hope additional schools in the area will also wish to become involved in this exciting competition.”

New woman at the helm

NEWS

District secretary honoured

CHRIS James, from the Rotary Club of Somer Valley, has been presented with a Significant Achievement Award by the organisation’s District Governor, Brian Kirkup, after nearing the end of his five years in office as district secretary.

At the Rotary District 1200 Assembly held at the Strode Theatre, Street, Brian paid tribute to Chris. He said: “His organisational skills as Brian Kirkup (left) presents Chris with district secretary have his award been outstanding. His tireless and through commitment and dedication to the role has been pivotal to the flow of information, to record keeping, to communication with clubs, to the minuting of meetings, and to giving guidance and providing advice whenever he has been asked. The district is immensely grateful to him for all he has done over the past five years.”

Wendy Simmons, president of Chris’s home club, said: “I was delighted to be present to see Chris receive this award. His work as district secretary is not only a credit to himself but also reflects well on the Rotary Club of Somer Valley. He has served our club in this current year as Club Service Chairman.”

Chris will complete his term of office at the end of June and he is now concentrating on training his successor to ensure a seamless handover.

Communities unite

THE residents of Pensford, Publow, Stanton Drew and Stanton Wick have formed a community trust, after uniting successfully to fight plans for a gypsy and traveller site.

Andrew Hillman, chairman of the trustees said: “I think all of our community will know of, and the vast majority will have joined in, the successful work of the Stanton Wick Action Group in raising money to defeat the proposals.

“The amazing thing is that this work enhanced a strong community bond and developed a renewed interest in our local environment and the welfare of our neighbours.”

CHARLOTTE Conroy is the new senior officer of Westonsuper-Mare lifeboat station, after the retirement of Pete Holder, who has served 40 years with the RNLI. She is only the fifth female operations manager in the 236 RNLI lifeboat stations and comes from a long line of lifeboat crew, stretching back to her grandfather.

She is a detective constable with Avon and Somerset Police, serving in public protection, and is a keen runner, running many marathons and half marathons each year.

Cadets new HQ

The Duke of Kent talks with Colonel Paul Richardson (ACF) and Wing Commander David Cox (ATC)

THE Duke of Kent has officially opened the new Joint Cadet Training Centre, in Nailsea. The centre is now home to cadets from Nailsea Platoon, Gibraltar Company, Somerset ACF and 2467 (Nailsea) Squadron ATC who parade on different evenings every week.

It replaces the previous buildings on the same site, occupied for over 40 years by the Air Training Corps, and the previous Army Cadet Force building, on Whitesfield Road, which was destroyed by a fire in 2009. The new building offers a training facility that is second to none in the area.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 15

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. . . and is there honey still for tea?

ON Friday, June 6th we will remember the D-Day Landings that took place 70 years ago and presaged the end of the Second World War. “Celebration” is not really an appropriate word here to commemorate the 150,000 US and Commonwealth troops who landed on Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah beaches. For many, it would have been the first time they left home and they With JUNE must all have wondered if they would ever see it again. Back in MACFARLANE Blighty the nation was living on rations and coupons and crossing its fingers. Dark days, but more than worthy of marking, especially given a very local connection with the planning of the landings (see History page 36).

STEAMED MUSSELS WITH CIDER AND CREAM

This is a nod to French entente with a west country version of “moules marinière”. The slight sweetness of the cider and the luxury of the cream make a simple meal into something rather grand and completely delicious.

METHOD

Remove mussels from their net or bag and immerse in a bowl of cold water for 30 mins.

Transfer to a colander. Tug off the “beard” of each mussel and discard any that are broken or

refuse to close when tapped lightly with the knife.

Melt butter in a large pan and sweat the shallots and garlic for a few minutes on a low heat. Add mussels and cider, turn up heat, put a lid on the pan, give it a good shake and let the mussels steam for a few minutes until they open. Add cream, stir to mix, heat through again and serve with chopped parsley to garnish. Crusty bread is good to mop up the creamy juices.

SUMMER PUDDING

Looking through the wartime recipes which include the National Loaf (for a 1 litre pudding basin) (husks and all) and 850g mixed berries, favouring Woolton Pie (healthy root raspberries vegetables) I was loaf of good white bread interested to see that 3 tbsp caster sugar Summer Pudding is 3 tbsp water suggested. I always think cream to serve of it as rather a luxury, but with bread and fruit off ratio, and allotments and hedgerows in abundance, it must have been lovely. Back in June 1944 it was on the menu here on Mendip. There are two important things to get right: one is the bread, which should be from a good quality, white and unsliced sandwich loaf, a day old (don’t even attempt to use cheap sliced white, it will just go slimy).

The other is the fruit: I prefer redcurrants, blackcurrants and a predominance of raspberries. If you want to include strawberries add them sliced after the other berries have cooked.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Cut slices from the loaf about 1cm thick, remove crusts and use to line the pudding basin. Cut a round for the base, then line the sides with bread fingers. Simmer the berries, sugar and water for 3-4 mins until the juices run dark and deep. Fill the lined basin with the fruit and pour over the rest of the juices. Patch over the top with more bread. Wrap in cling film and weight down in the fridge over night, in a bowl to catch any runaway juices. Unmould and serve with really good cream.

PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Honey ice cream with caramelised honey sauce

INGREDIENTS

(for four) 1kg rope grown mussels knob of butter 3 shallots, finely chopped 2 cloves of garlic, chopped 350 ml medium Somerset cider 350 ml double cream parsley, chopped salt and pepper

HONEY ICE CREAM WITH CARAMELISED HONEY SAUCE

“And is there honey still for tea?”. Rupert Brooke, the poet INGREDIENTS who wrote these words, died For ice cream during World War One on his 4 free range eggs, separated way to the Dardanelles. He – NOTE: This recipe uses was considered the “golden raw eggs boy” of English poetry at the 100g caster sugar time. His poem about 300ml double cream homesickness for England – 2 tbsp Somerset runny “The Old Vicarage, honey Grantchester” – echoes down the century. *My ice-cream For sauce maker, only occasionally 4 tbsp Somerset runny used, broke. While thinking honey about buying another I thought I would try this nochurn ice cream method. Not now going to buy another ice-cream maker!

METHOD

Whisk egg whites until stiff, add sugar slowly while whisking and whisk again until stiff and glossy. Mix egg yolks. Whisk cream until floppy. Add yolks to cream. Mix in a big spoonful of egg whites and then fold the whole lot into the remaining meringue mixture. Gently fold all together and drizzle honey through the mixture without completely incorporating. Pile into a suitable container and freeze for at least a couple of hours or overnight.

For the sauce, heat the honey in a pan, stirring until it reaches a gentle boil, then leave unstirred to simmer for a couple of minutes until the colour is deep and rich. Remove from the heat. If not using immediately, allow to cool a little and store in a lidded jar. You may need to warm it through when you need it. To serve, remove the ice cream from the freezer and put in fridge for about 20 mins before serving. Drizzle the sauce over.

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Special cider wins top award

A UNIQUE cider which has been created from 458 varieties of apple grown in just one Thatchers orchard has been awarded a Gold Medal in the Taste of the West Awards 2014.

Called simply Thatchers 458, this bottled cider has been crafted from apples grown in the Somerset cider maker’s celebrated Exhibition Orchard.

Thatchers 458 has an abv of 8.4%, and costs £3.49. It is available in the Thatchers Cider Shop at Myrtle Farm, and will be in selected Tesco stores in the South West from the end of June.

Managing director, Martin Thatcher, said: “This cider is one we’ve been hoping to create for many years.

Unique is not a word we use lightly – but there’s no other collection of cider apples in one orchard like this anywhere in the world. It’s a cider with a real story to tell.”

THE QUEEN ADELAIDE BLAGDON

01761 463926

FOOD & DRINK

Travelling through, walking local trails, or living in the village, if the doors are open – come in and enjoy what Blagdon’s little country pub has to offer.

GOOD FOOD, LAGER, ALES AND LOCAL CIDER

The Carpenters Tavern

A warm welcome awaits you at this traditional country pub, with well-kept real ales, fine wines and wholesome food.

Under new ownership, with a re-vamped menu and drinks prices, we are looking forward to welcoming both the regular local visitor and those who have not experienced this countryside treasure that is just a stone’s throw away from south Bristol.

Now open Mondays Mon – urs 2 course roast dinner £6.95

For restaurant bookings please call 0117 964 6423 Wells Road, Dundry, BS41 8NE

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 17

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S u c c e ss i s sw e e t – a n d t as t y THE staff at Jon Thorner’s have been celebrating an amazing 12 honours from the Taste of the West Awards. Their traditional Scotch egg, a product only introduced to the range in recent years, came on top receiving GOLD from the panel of judges. Other wins were for a range of their meat pies and quiches, which have gone from strength to strength and their own made gourmet beef burgers.

The Pylle based butcher says it owes this great success to the strong team of kitchen staff employed to make all these products. The kitchen-ready range has grown dramatically since it started in 2006. Head chef and manager John Emery said: “When we first launched our pies we were making about 100 a week; production is now 24 hours and we now distribute thousands of pies a week. And each and every one of our pies is filled by hand, before being hand crimped.”

It’s this attention to detail and the company’s ethos for locally-sourced meat, which has made the range of kitchenready products such a success.

Jon Thorner’s kitchen team. At the front (l-r) manager John Emery and managing director Jon Thorner

This success has allowed the business to grow, even during the economic slump, meaning Jon Thorner’s has continued to employ staff to cope with the demand of their product. As well as selling their range from their farm shop, just south of Shepton Mallet, and from independent retailers across the South West, a selection of products is now available from national

online retailer Ocado.

Managing Director and owner, Jon Thorner, said: “Butchery remains central to our business, but diversifying into pies, quiches, pastries and cakes, has meant we were able to grow the business during tough competition from supermarkets and a time when the price of meat changed lots of people’s buying habits.”

JUNE 2014 DATES

Wells: every Wednesday 9am-2.30pm at the Market Place All other markets 9am-1pm unless otherwise marked*

Choose between Swan Terrace with its breathtaking view of Wells Cathedral or our peaceful Walled Garden Café Whichever you choose, you’ll find great food and a en ve service.

Saturday 7th Axbridge & Midsomer Norton Sunday 1st SFM@ The Frome Independent (10am-3pm)* Saturday 14th Frome & Keynsham Saturday 21st Crewkerne Friday 27th Burnham-on-Sea Saturday 28th Glastonbury & Yeovil (9am-2pm)* follow us @SFMMarkets For more information phone 01373 814646 or visit www.SomersetFarmersMarkets.co.uk

Powering Farming’s Future Tel: 01225 667151 Web: www.yourenergyuk.com PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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FOOD & DRINK

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 19

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On the move

Getting their bobs’ worth

Bob Chaplin (left) and Bob Cork have been perfecting the blend for 20 years

ALAN and Sandy Currie are retiring to France, after 13 years in charge of the Lamb at Axbridge. Alan said: “It’s been great, but after 43 years behind the bar it’s time to call it a day.”

THEIR secret is out – two of the master cider makers at Shepton Mallet Cider Mill have been perfecting their own blend for the past 20 years!

Close friends and colleagues Bob Chaplin and Bob Cork kept their work hidden from all except a few select people as they developed their own craft ciders.

Bob Chaplin said: “The new range has been 20 years in the making. We disguised it under a secret batch number ‘417’ as we perfected the liquid. We are proud to have produced a quality assortment of ciders that boast a strong West Country heritage. We’re excited for people to sample it for themselves.”

Bob Cork added: “For many years we made small volumes of the ciders for special occasions and to present to high profile guests. It was enjoyed by just a handful of people, but word spread and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

“People said it was simply too good to keep to ourselves – so we made the decision to share our speciality ciders with everyone.”

Called Chaplin & Cork’s, there are two varieties: Somerset Gold (5.2% ABV) a full-bodied medium cider and Somerset Reserve (6.8% ABV) a rich medium dry cider. *The bottled ciders will be available at Shepton Cider Mill’s bar and stand at the Royal Bath and West Show to enjoy there or takeaway in a three-bottle gift pack which includes a bottle of Addlestones.

Chaplin & Cork’s will also be available in Waitrose stores nationally.

THE

Steve and Wendy promise a warm welcome, PHEASANT WORTH, WOOKEY home-made food, Sunday 01749 672355 carvery, skittle alley, and a range of real ales and ciders.

NEW opening hours Tuesday-Friday 5pm-close Saturday and Sunday 12noon-close

The Pheasant, Worth, BA5 1LQ www.thepheasantinnwookey.co.uk

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Where good food can be fun!

A NEW dining experience has come to Shepton Mallet with the opening of The Bell Burger Bar at the Bell Hotel in the High Street.

The team at the Bell has developed a new menu which they hope will appeal to everyone’s taste – and offers some added WOW! factor.

The key to the burger menu is that they are all homemade and are then offered with a variety of toppings from traditional cheese to the Chipotle BLT Classic: smoked chilli, halloumi cheese with sesame seeds and homemade coleslaw. A falafel burger with salsa and sour cream will appeal to vegetarians and those wanting a lighter meal.

There is also a wide choice of “sharing” options such as nachos with beef or bean chilli, chilli fries – topped with cheese, salsa and sour cream – and a wide range of extras.

Juliet Watchman, who runs the Bell Hotel with partner Micky Taft, said: “At the Bell we have tried to source as much of our food as possible from local, independent suppliers. Our meat is supplied by Paul Loader Butchers or Ross Wrigley Butchers. Our bread is from – in our opinion – the best local baker, Nick Denela. Our chilli is homemade.”

Juliet added: “There is no menu like this in the area and we thought we should offer something that is a bit of fun.”

For people with an appetite, the Bell has also laid down a challenge. The

FOOD & DRINK

Family-friendly – the new burger menu is attracting a lot of interest

Bellybuster Challenge comprises a triple burger with a mountain of “naughty naughty fries” – they’re topped with pulled pork, blue and cheddar cheeses and sauces – spicy chicken wings, coleslaw, pickles and sauces. It must be booked in advance and any single person completing the meal will receive their money back.

Juliet insisted: “The challenge is absolutely not about encouraging people to overeat. It’s meant to be a bit of fun and has created a lot of interest. And, at the end of the day, it’s a good value meal if you decide to share it with friends!”

Micky added: “We want to encourage the regeneration of Shepton Mallet town centre by attracting new visitors and we really believe we can help do that by offering a unique dining experience.

“We’ve had great support from our customers for the venture and we are still offering our hugely-popular carvery on Sunday lunchtimes.”

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 21

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Discover what the monks ate Risco sausage filler

Weigh bagging line Bowl Cutters Used Seydelmann 120 litre Bowl Cutter Used Rex 200 litre S/S Bowl Cutter S/S bowl New Fatosa 35 litre Bowl cutter S/S bowl Mincers and Mixer Grinders Used Hobart 56 Mincer, 15 Hp motor Used Laska 130 Mincer all stainless steel auto Used Hobart 4346 Mixer Grinder Used Wolfking 140 Mixer Grinder Used Kilia 130 Mincer with mix arm New Fatosa PSA 160 Auto self feed Mincer Used Wolfking C250 UNI Mincer Used KS 46 Hp – 320 Mincemaster upright Emulsifier Vacuum Packers and Shrink Tunnels New ATM Table top vacuum packer, single phase New ATM Single chamber for long fish etc New ATM single chamber vacuum packer New ATM double chamber vacuum packer New ATM large single chamber vacuum packer Used Cryovac CJ 51 Heat shrink tunnel Used Mondini gas flush tray sealer, year 2002 Used Ilpra Tray Sealer, Model Speedy, year 2003 Mixers and Tumblers New Fatosa 80 litre paddle Mixer Used IFM 1,000 litre twin ribbon Mixer Used Lutetia 150 kg vacuum Tumbler Used Lutetia 400 Kg vacuum Tumbler Used Ruhle 600 litre scrape Mixer Tumbler Dicers, Flakers, Graters Used Ruhle SR1 dicer with multi grid Used Treif Dicer 84 x 84 chamber Used Biro Bandsaw, sliding table, single phase Used AEW 400, Year 2004 bandsaw, sliding table Used AEW 400 Bandsaw sliding table Miscellaneous Used Koppens VM 600 HS Former Used Risco RS 105 Vacuum Filler linker, year 2010 Used Vemag Robot 500 Vacuum Filler Used BCH steam Vessel 500 litres, Mix & tipping Used Do Boy Stainless steel bag sealer Used Rapidaire two trolley thro’ door cooker Used Talsa 120 litre electric cooker tank Used Nilma Pasta Cooker, auto cook & empty Used Vertical bag clipper Used Ranger Apollo skinless sausage Peeler Used Grote 713 slicer stacks and shingles

PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

A CONFERENCE exploring the medieval diet at Glastonbury Abbey is to be held in June as part of the celebrations surrounding the re-opening of the Abbot’s Kitchen.

The Abbot’s Table on Saturday, June 14th will feature speakers such as Marc Meltonville from Hampton Court Palace, Professor James Clark from the University of Exeter and Professor Chris Woolgar from the University of Southampton.

Also speaking will be archaeologist Stewart Brown and medieval food expert Peter Brears, who helped the abbey interpret the different uses of the kitchen. This year has been called the Year of the Kitchen by the abbey following the conservation of the iconic building.

Julie Hayes, assistant education officer, who is organising the event said: “The conference for 2014 is part of the celebration of the re-opening of the Abbot’s Kitchen following the recent conservation project.

“There is huge interest in how the kitchen played its part in the day to day life of the Abbot and his guests.”

A second event – The Glastonbury Abbey Medieval Food Fair – takes place in the abbey grounds on Sunday, June 14th with free admission, a host of food and drink stalls plus entertainment.

The conference takes place in Glastonbury Town Hall.

Tickets cost £20 with lunch, £18 concessions or £14 without lunch (£12 concessions) and are available from the Abbey Shop or via the website www.glastonburyabbey.com

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GARDEN FOOD

Bath asparagus

THIS is a new plant for me this year and a locally famous one too. Ornithogalum pyrenaicum, also known as Bath asparagus, is a plant which was once locally abundant in the hedgerows and dappled shade in woodlands around Bath.

It is unclear whether it is truly native, With JAKE or just naturalised, and one theory WHITSON proposes that it was introduced as a food crop by the Romans. Its flowering shoots are ready to eat in May and June, and they have a texture and flavour which is remarkably similar to cultivated asparagus, though with very slight but pleasant stickiness, like okra, and they are of course thinner than the giant cultivated asparagus stalks that we are used to.

I bought these plants as bulbs online last autumn and am growing them on in pots for a year before dividing them and spreading them around the shadier corners of the garden. I hope that in this way they will provide me with a perennial crop of shoots from the least productive parts of my garden with virtually no care at all. On top of this, I will be helping to bolster the local population of what is now becoming a rare plant.

It would be unseemly to do anything elaborate with Bath asparagus and to date I have only ever eaten a scant handful of spears, lightly boiled for around 30 seconds and served with butter. Hollandaise would, of course, also be a dream.

If you are in the mood for something more elaborate, I once saw a French chef make a dish of air dried ham, lightly blanched Bath asparagus (it is also abundant in the Pyrenees, hence the specific epithet), salad leaves and redcurrants.

Perhaps next year I will have enough to try this.

Jacob Whitson is a chef and food writer who has worked in many of the West Country’s most prestigious restaurants. He is currently working on his first book, a travelogue detailing the regional foods of Japan.

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

A prickly customer

WHILST on a recent trip to the Iberian peninsula I was reminded about a very common plant here in Britain that is completely edible, very hard to confuse with any other plant species and you will be whole-heartedly congratulated for picking it. You may even be bought a drink!

With ADRIAN This plant is considered such a nuisance BOOTS and grows in such quantity I feel it should be on the menu as a way of controlling it, killing two birds with one stone as they say.

Away from the touristic parts of the Algarve in Portugal, country folk still recount the old days and I found a story about an old Portuguese lady who, as a young child, would work with her parents as day labourers in the dry fields under olive and carob trees. Often when times were hard food was prepared out in the fields from ingredients found right where they worked.

One of these was Cardo do campo, which means “field thistle” and as far as I can tell was also the name of a dish which mainly consisted of – thistles.

This got me to thinking about thistles here in the UK. I suspect that the same rural story of eating it played out when times were hard. Indeed on numerous occasions I have tried the soft fleshy bract at the base of the purple flower head; whilst tasty (thistles have a similar flavour to artichokes and are a member of the Cirsium family) it is a prickly job without gloves.

Inevitably, I always seem to have forgotten to bring them with me when I decide to go for thistles. This usually leads to some exclamations of ah! and oh! (I’m being civilised here).

And to confound things you don’t get a great return in terms of quantity for your effort. What I did learn is that the young stalks and leaves can be blanched, peeled then eaten for a more substantial meal. So here is a recipe for Portuguese Cardo do campo using a reviled weed of fields and roadsides, one very prickly customer indeed, the thistle: Finely chop de-skinned and blanched thistle leaves and stems.

Boil and chop potatoes and along with the cooked thistles, mix with a few eggs to make what they describe as a porridge. In a way it is a variation on a frittata but rather than creating an omelette it is more of a scrambled egg texture you’re going for.

To finish the Portuguese theme, top with coriander and serve with crusty sourdough bread. Gloves or no gloves, it’s definitely worth the effort for a lovely meal and by default managing some weeds at the same time. Now where’s that drink, anyone?

Adrian Boots is a Landscape Ecologist, Wild Food Forager and Adventure Activity provider. You can visit his web site www.gowildactivities.co.uk to learn more about wild food foraging and activities you can do with him on the Mendip Hills.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 23

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BEAH

English & Mediterranean Restaurant, Wells

Over the moon

New a la carte menu (including authentic Moroccan tagines)

New breakfast & lunch menus 2 course £10 lunch menu (Monday – Saturday) 2 course £12 dinner menu (Monday – Thursday)

MOON WALK 2014 A huge thank you to everyone who supported us in raising over £1,300 for Breast Cancer Charities . . . And thank you to Mendip Moments who donated a prize for our raffle I inadvertently omitted them from last month’s advert – sorry.

For more information, call Nicola on 01749 678111 – email: info@beah.co.uk

www.beah.co.uk Relaxed and friendly dining in the heart of Wells

ME OF FEATHERS U L P Traditional country pub and B & B with flagstone floors, log fires, beer garden and a beautiful stream side location.

Family run with a welcoming atmosphere, dog and children friendly.

Opening times 12pm till 11pm.

Food served 12pm till 2.30pm and 6pm till 9.30pm. To book, ring 01761 462682.

DUCK RACE SATURDAY 12th JULY

5pm start, pig roast, bbq, ice cream stall, face painting, local band playing and 3 bars open. raising money for Blagdon and Burrington pre schools and Blagdon guide and scouts Best dressed Plastic Duck competition – see website for entry details

With Burrington fete on the same day – make a day of it with an afternoon at Burrington and an evening at The Plume!

Visit www.theplumeoffeathers.com

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

NICOLA Bzize from BEAH Restaurant, Wells and her friend, Alan Precious, completed the Moon Walk on a cold windy evening on London’s Clapham Common to raise over £1,300 for Breast Cancer Charities.

They would like to thank suppliers, friends and customers who donated prizes or bought raffle tickets. Nicola said: “It was a real experience and great atmosphere and well worth the training. So much so, we are hoping to take part in September’s Shine Walk to raise funds for bowel cancer.”

If anyone would like to take part in a charity quiz night give Nicola a call on 01749 678111 or email her at info@beah.co.uk

14th Annual Beer Festival Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July Real Ale, Cider, BBQ, Family fun including live science show from Mr G in the garden Saturday afternoon.

Live music Friday evening from Copperhead, Saturday evening from Kick the Cat & Sunday afternoon Steve James from 3pm.

BOOK EARLY!

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The ice cream that’s selling like hot cakes MENDIP Moments, the award winning premium dairy ice cream company from Wells, is delighted to introduce an indulgent, innovative dessert – the Ice Cream Cupcake.

Made from their own ice cream, the rich, dense and creamy cupcakes are dipped in a luxurious chocolate cup and topped with a smooth semifreddo mousse “icing”.

Rob Lunnon, director of Mendip Moments, said: “We are always looking for creative and original ways to use our ice cream, extending beyond the traditional idea of three scoops in a bowl. These Ice Cream Cupcakes fit the bill perfectly: there

Flavours available: (l:r) Chocolate Velvet: Chocoholic Chunk ice cream, flecked with Belgian bittersweet chocolate chunks and topped with a delicious chocolate semifreddo mousse; Strawberry Spring: Somerset Strawberries ice cream marbled with an Italian strawberry sauce and topped with a creamy vanilla semifreddo mousse; Amaretto Machiatto: Amaretto ice cream laced with amarettini biscuits and topped with a smooth mocha semifreddo mousse; Lemon Lust: Lemon Curd ice cream, enriched with meringue pieces and topped with a contrasting raspberry semifreddo mousse.

FOOD & DRINK

are various adaptations of cupcakes available at the moment but, as far as we are aware, these are the first ice cream versions! They are fun, stylish and, most important of all, delicious.”

Milk and cream for Mendip Moments ice cream is used from the farm’s herd of Holstein cows. The ice cream uses only natural ingredients and has no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives. Mendip Moments has consistently won awards for quality and taste since it began in 2006, including golds in the national Great Taste Awards (organised by the Guild of Fine Food) and Taste of the West Awards.

Giles Sampson, head chef at The Crown at Wells, was so impressed with the concept that he requested the opportunity to launch the Ice Cream Cupcakes in his restaurant. He said: “We are always looking to support innovative, local companies.

When Rob first discussed the idea of the cupcakes with me – and as soon as I’d tasted one – I knew that they would be an irresistible addition to our dessert offering.

“We anticipated that they would prove popular with our customers but I am delighted that they have surpassed all expectations and are selling like hot cakes!!”

Mendip Moments Ice Cream Cupcakes will initially be sold through selected restaurants and cafes, and will be available for weddings and events. Rob added: “Although we have four flavours at the moment, there are endless flavour combinations that we could provide for specific orders, to co-ordinate with a colour or theme for a wedding or party.”

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 25

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MENDIP TIMES Country shopping at its best

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW

FOOD & DRINK

Going swimmingly

RECENTLY-opened Seasons Fish Kitchen, at Farrington’s Farm Shop, offers fresh fish daily, cooked to order and boxed for you to enjoy at Farrington’s or take home, with catch of the day recommendations and a weekly changing menu. F Fancy a beer battered cod, home-made bouillabaise, moulles and frites, grilled Dover sole, lobster fishcakes, langoustine and chips?

Chef Alex Venables, formerly of The Toll Gate in Holt, and Lucknam Park Hotel, where he gained a Michelin star, has plenty of sea-fresh fish to inspire him and your appetite.

MEAT SUPPLIED FROM OUR OWN FARM

CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH US!

Hot fish lunches or seafood suppers, proper fish & chips, from beer-battered Cod to Dover Sole Don’t want to wait? Phone ahead and order Sundays are available for private dining, birthday lunches, or a relaxed get-together with friends

BEAUTIFUL SOMERSET WILLOW AND WONDERFUL PLANTS

Tasty Cheddar strawberries and our own cream!

Enjoy a good Sunday roast

OPENING TIMES Tuesday to Saturday 11.30am till 7pm Major credit cards accepted

Emma Bridgewater China & other gifts Geoff’s fresh fish every Friday

Centred around a traditional farm courtyard near Chew Valley Lake – the very best in local produce and gift ideas

TEA ROOMS Hot & cold meals Delicious cream teas Full English breakfasts Come and enjoy our lovely Sunday roast lunches

Opening times: Farm shop: Monday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am - 5.30pm • Sunday 10am - 5pm Tea Room: Monday to Sunday 9.30am - 5.30pm

Wheelchair access, children welcome, free parking, coaches by appointment

Farm Shop: 01761 220067 Tea Rooms: 01761 220172

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

FRESH FISH DAILY . . . AND COOKED JUST FOR YOU BOXED . . . FOR YOU TO ENJOY

SEASONS FISH KITCHEN Farrington’s Farm Shop, Farrington Gurney, Bristol BS39 6UB

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INTERNET

Using Tabs for comparing pages on the web

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

WHATEVER device you use for your internet browsing, there should be the option to have several tabs open so you can compare prices, offers etc or just have to different sites open at the same time. There are various browsers you can use – most popular tend to be Chrome; Opera; Firefox; Safari and there’s also Netscape etc. Internet Explorer is not very popular these days, so it may be worth considering using a different one – all free to download.

These two examples show two tabs already open with another ready to be used, and are for Opera and Chrome, but the same principle applies to all of them.

These examples show Amazon and Argos already open. So if I want to compare another company, just click (or tap) on the + sign to the right of the two current tabs (for Opera, Firefox and Safari) or the sloping rectangular box to the right of the two current tabs (for Chrome or Internet Explorer).

You should now have another tab open, with your cursor already flashing, ready for you to type your address. If you don’t know the actual address, most browsers suggest options as you type, so you rarely need to type the whole address, just start typing and when you see the address you want, click (or tap) on that.

N.B. Almost everywhere we go these days, there seems to be Free WiFi. Or I’ve seen Totally Free WiFi on offer – not sure what the difference is between those two! However, free WiFi will be on an unsecured network, so you need to be aware of the risks. You are vulnerable to hackers, viruses etc on an open network. And you have no idea what infections the other people using that network might have on their machines. If you go to someone’s house and want to use their WiFi, they should have a code on the back of their router, so if you use a secured network that should eliminate those sorts of problems.

Submitted by IT for the Terrified: The Old Cowshed, Station Road, Cheddar BS27 3AG 01934 741751 • www.itfortheterrified.co.uk This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer.

For more in depth information, please contact us.

We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you; a session lasts 2 hours and costs £10. We can cover a range of subjects – including absolute basics; photo management; shopping online; emailing; Word processing, spreadsheets; basic web design; etc. on a range of devices, including Windows XP/Vista/W7/W8: Macs: Tablets: iPads: smartphones.

We also have a Computer Club on Thursdays 1.30-3.30. Starts with half an hour of group tuition, followed by a chance to ask a short individual question and have a chat See our web site or contact us for further details, or if you can spare two hours and week have skills on any level – especially iPad – that you would like to share with others, please get in touch.

ACROSS 1 Need to weld deck for staging sadly missed entertainer (4,7) 7 In Tenby Edward introduced a minor issue (3) 9 Instead of Bedlam Yatton implies Evercreech area (7) 10 Degree to pierce amount left in (7) 11 Beginner doesn’t hide his fixation (4) 12/21 Our little secret?

(7,3,3,2) 14 Impure oil around the county might appear insincere (7) 15 From start I follow US state to find canine (7) 17 Tar does become very hot (7) 18 Ocean said to be part of preference for sweet (4-3) 19 Crewman on his feet for acrobatic feats (10) 22 Sweet aroma of root vegetable ingredient (4) 24 See tide run without being tested (7) 25 You could clap as a source of wool appears (7) 26 That’s almost it! (3) 27 Awkward to stage so we find it becomes a dead loss (4,2,5)

DOWN 2 She made Sam leader for a change (9) 3 Period said to be lacking strength (4) 4 Make legal document and carry it out as the saying goes (2,3,4) 5 Farm animal to bend under the wooden frame (5) 6 French waters are active in oven near Frome (10) 7 Lad hiding two indeterminate amounts – that’s nice! (5) 8 Administrator closely follows canine business on Felton Common (9,4) 9 Arrangement done for laughs near Vet School (8,5) 13 Gallic story leads to swindle whilst competing (10) 15 Bet on preliminary sketch of danger point of fire (9) 16 In a census we may find annoying elements (9) 20 Took the point it wasn’t journalist (5) 21 See 12 Across 23 Worshipper’s pew makes me sick (4)

Answers on Page 105 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 27

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MENDIP TIMES

Chew Magna Duck Race

The race is on

Wrington May Fair

Ready for the off

Wrington May Queen Megan Quantick

Jessica Smart, winner of one of the best decorated ducks, with mum Samantha

Choosing the winner PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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Blagdon Fete

Dave Gould showed some of his collection of motorbikes

Somerton May Fair

EVENTS

An idyllic setting

Members of Somerton Girlguides ran a face painting and cake stall to raise money towards an adventure weekend. They’re pictured with young customer Rosie

Multiple national title winners Felton Eccles gave a demonstration

Village games

Town crier Steve Davis welcomes visitors to the annual event, organised by the Somerton Tourism and Heritage Partnership MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 29

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MENDIP TIMES

Art and soul

CLAIRE Matthews is a self-taught part-time artist, based in the beautiful settings of North Somerset and the surrounding Mendip Hills, working from a small studio at home.

She specialises in working with pastels but also offers a range of other mediums. You may remember in last month’s publication, Richard Searle, head herdsman at Yeo Valley, who has three cheeky Jack Russells.

She recently completed this surprise birthday commission from his fiancé. Richard was overwhelmed when he saw the portrait, which is now hung in pride of place.

Claire’s aim is to provide clients with an affordable commissioned piece of art work to treasure forever, capturing her subject’s character and soul through their eyes.

Drummer’s new beat

Rock steady: Tanith and Robin outside Wells Trading Post

TANITH Tothill, who runs Wells Trading Post, has a new business partner – her husband Robin!

Robin is stepping back from his job with a production company which specialises in furnishing dressing rooms for performers at rock festivals and other major events to join Tanith at the business.

The move follows the retirement of Graham Creasey, Tanith’s former business partner and close friend. Wells Trading Post has been housed in the 12th Century Old Priory Mill for the past 16 years.

Robin is a drummer with Nick Parker and the False Alarms – they’ve just completed a new album – and also gigs with other musicians including Kevin Brown and Chris Jagger. He said: “Working at Wells Trading Post has quite a lot in common with the production job; it’s all about the details which go to make a room look right.”

Robin hasn’t given up the “day job” completely; he and Tanith will be working backstage at this year’s Glastonbury Festival. And the couple are also planning to introduce an element of their “rock and roll” lifestyle to Wells Trading Post: they are going to start dealing in vinyl records!

Natasha Clutterbuck Charcoal Veg. Vibrant drawings using charcoal, mud, rocks, oak and tea.

Originals/Limited edition prints/ Commissions & Workshops

Old Priory Mill, West St, Wells, BA5 2HG. Tel: 01749 671454 www.wellstradingpost.co.uk • email:tanithtradingpost@gmail.com PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Telephone: 01275 331528 e-mail: n.clutterbuck77@btinternet.com Web: www.natashaclutterbuck.com

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Sale has over 500 lots

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

CLEVEDON Salerooms’ June 5th specialist sale includes this fine oil on canvas portrait of Miss Mabel Glenny Cuthbertson, painted

by Edward Arthur Walton (1860-1922).

Measuring 113cm x 85cm the picture has an elaborate carved gilt gesso frame and carries a pre-sale estimate of £4,000 – £6,000.

The sale includes over 500 lots of antique furniture, fine art, ceramics and glass, collectors’ items, silver, jewellery and watches.

The fully illustrated on-line sale catalogue can be viewed at www.clevedon-salerooms.com. Viewing in person is on Tuesday June 3rd, 2pm – 5.30pm and Wednesday June 4th, 10am – 7.30pm.

Starting young

PLAYING music appeals to every nationality – Mark Ireland’s European customers include Barna, aged ten, who is originally from Hungary.

Mark himself is appearing in concert featuring Yamaha’s Tyros 5 at Radstock Methodist Church on Saturday June 14th, at 7.30pm. Tickets are £6.

New Roland HPi-7f Classic range REDUCED from £3500 to £2899 New Clavinovas from £1199 Yamaha Tyros 5 - in stock Used Tyros 4 - only £1899 Casio PX-150 stand, pedals £499

For further details please contact the salerooms on 01934 830111.

They think it’s all over . . .

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

Quarterly Specialist Sale of Antiques, Fine Art & Collectors Items Thursday 5th June at 10.30am Viewing Tues 3rd June 2pm - 5.30pm Wed 4th June 10am - 7.30pm Sale day from 9am On-line catalogue available from 23rd May

Tel: 01934 830111 or 0117 325 6789 The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT www.clevedon-salerooms.com

Clevedon Salerooms Quarterly Specialist Sale on the 5th June includes this Lladro porcelain copy of the FIFA World Cup. When the final whistle is blown at the World Cup on the 13th July there can be no guarantee that an Englishman will be holding the trophy aloft.

Estimated at £1,000–£1,500 the Specialist Sale has live on-line bidding attracting bidders from around the world, with the result that Clevedon Salerooms cannot guarantee that an Englishman will hold this Lladro example aloft at the end of the sale; but as we all know, it’s the taking part that counts.

With over 500 lots of Antiques, Fine Art & Collectors’ Items, Jewellery, Silver & Watches – why not come to Clevedon Salerooms Specialist Sale on Thursday 5th June.

Free Valuation Days 9th 10th 11th June & 23rd 24th 25th June 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 31

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Interest in all items getting firmer APPROXIMATELY 550 lots were offered at Mendip Auction Rooms May Sale of Antiques, Fine Art and Collectables.

Staging sales on Saturdays leads to a large attendance particularly from private buyers with additional demand generated by selling over the internet.

Demand for smaller items of furniture seems to have improved with a Monks bench selling well above estimate at £450. Quality items from the 1960s also continue to generate interest with a pair of folding stools selling well above estimate at £85 and a Bakelite radio at £35.

Unusual or historical items selling to advantage included a set of original mining plans from the Wills Company £55 (estimate £20 - £30), a dentist’s chair £120 (estimate £80 £120), magic lantern slides £120 (estimate £30 - £50) and a collection of wills and deeds £290 (estimate £30 - £50). A good collection of WWII medals sold well at £220 (estimate £100 £150) with African spears achieving £110 (estimate £40 - £60).

The auction rooms attracts large entries of jewellery and at the sale on May 3rd there was strong demand for rings and silver jewellery, in particular, with an 18ct diamond daisy design ring selling for £900.

The next sale will be of Antiques, Fine Art and Collectables incorporating the Sporting Sale and will be held on Saturday June 7th starting at 10am. Further entries are invited and the catalogue can be viewed online (with effect from May 31st) on the-saleroom.com or a catalogue can be downloaded from www.mendipauctionrooms.co.uk.

PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

The team at the Mendip Auction Rooms are always content to visit your home free of charge and the auction rooms are open from 10am-5pm Monday to Friday.

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Varied sale attracts collectors

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

AN attractive enamelled metal advertising sign for Melox Dog Foods sold particularly well at Tamlyns’ recent collectors’ sale in Bridgwater. Centred with a fox terrier and with a deep blue background, it was a very striking image; there were certainly a number of keen collectors after it and it eventually sold in the room for £620.

A large collection of modern GB and some foreign stamps totalled £3,700 – they had arrived as a huge consignment on one of Tamlyns valuation mornings and were sorted by Tamlyns’ postage stamp specialist into a number of lots which made them far more desirable to bidders. The coin section contained a collection of 20th century Maundy money, none of the sets were boxed but they were in excellent condition, all sold well and the rare 1953 set made £620.

A collection of items including photographs, letters and family albums, relating to General Douglas MacArthur made £800; a 1967 Velocette Motorcycle £650; a 1954 Brockhouse Corgi MK4 motorcycle £750; Bank of England Britannia 10/notes £220; a WWII Air Ministry navigation watch £450 and an early 20th century field surgeon’s kit £280.

The next collectors’ sale will be on August 19th and amongst the usual interesting mix of items will be a collection of Railwayana – uniform, badges, books, ephemera, lamps, shunting pole – from the family of a former GWR employee in Devon.

If you would like to enter anything into the August sale, contact the auctioneers on 01278 445251.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 33

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ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Erica is wildlife finalist

WEDMORE jeweller Erica Sharpe has been selected as a finalist for the Wildlife Artist of the Year 2014 award run by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.

Erica’s piece, Crane Dance, a silver and gemstone necklace inspired by the reintroduction of cranes to the Somerset Levels, was shortlisted within the Wildlife in 3D Category beating stiff competition from artists around the world.

Her watercolour, Choughs Above Morvah, painted in Cornwall during the New Year storms, has also been selected in the Wild Places category. Both pieces will be exhibited at the Mall Galleries in London and available for sale to raise funds for the Foundation.

Winners will be announced in early June.

A version of the Crane Dance is on display and available for purchase at the gallery in Wedmore along with some gorgeous pieces from Erica’s new coastal path collection, so call in and have a look.

Details: lesleytook@aol.com or 01823 461640.

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For all your paper crafting needs!

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WEEKLY WORKSHOPS and craft clubs Cuttlebug, Pro-Markers, Embossing folders, Marianne Dies, eBosser, Spectrum Noir stamps and inks plus much more Unit 6, Rookery Farm, Binegar, Radstock BA3 4UL

01749 840567 • 07739 048679

Church House Designs

www.somercraftaddix.com

Gallery selected for quality by the Crafts Council of Great Britain Open Wednesday – Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 10am – 2pm (or by appointment) Broad Street, Congresbury, Bristol, North Somerset BS49 5DG • Telephone 01934 833660 • www.churchhousedesigns.co.uk PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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HIRE

Page 1

Plant & Tools Hire & Sales • HIRE • SALES • REPAIR

Huge stocks of Tools & Equipment • Compactors • Drills • Cultivators • Angle Grinders • Breakers • Hedge Trimmers • Saws • Ladders • Rotavators • Hoists • Tile Cutters • Scarifiers • Scaffold Towers • Chain Saws • Carpet Cleaners Open Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:00 • Sat 8:00-12:00

Long or Day Hire Delivery & Collection Service Trade & DIY

01934 743543 www.cheddarhire.co.uk Wideatts Road, Cheddar BS27 3AP

QUALITY MARQUEES FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT

• High Peaked Roofs • Clear Roofs and Window Walls so ‘Conservatory Ends or Entrances’ can be created. Also Flame Towers.

• Furniture • Starlight Lining • Dance floors • Lighting • Fridge trailer hire

Call the Marquee Specialists, Tel: 01761 221366 Email enquiries: info@jgmarquees.co.uk • Website: www.jgmarquees.co.uk

Mendip Times Due to continuing expansion we have a vacancy for a van driver to help with deliveries for one week a month

Send details to: enquiries@mendiptimes.co.uk

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MENDIP TIMES

D-Day memories

THE unique role played by a Mendip village in the planning of the D-Day Landings 70 years ago is to be celebrated with a day of events.

And villagers in Stoke-St-Michael, near Shepton Mallet, have been awarded £5,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to create a permanent record of the part they played – albeit mostly unknowingly.

Shrouded in the utmost secrecy, the village’s pub The Knatchbull Arms hosted the largest single gathering of English and American generals away from American soil.

Montgomery, Lord Joseph Stillwell, Omar Bradley, George Patton, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Douglas MacArthur, Archibald Percival Wavell and George C. Marshall all met there to determine the date of the Normandy invasion.

Only a small number of villagers knew anything about the meeting; pub landlord Burt Bryant and his daughter Edith, were amongst them. Edith is planning to visit the event from her

Peter has installed a permanent display in the Knatchbull Arms, explaining its role in D-Day

Members of the Stoke St Michael Home Guard PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Knatchbull Arms landlord Peter D’Auganno, fellow organisers and members of the Dog Company, 29th Infantry re-enactment group

home in Hampshire after she was sent a leaflet about the celebrations by a villager.

Alun Stewart, one of the organisers, said: “Her father was serving the refreshments during the meeting. She, along with all the kids from the school, was sent home. Her home was the pub. She was given an escort by the security staff/guards to the pub and had to sit quietly whilst the meeting was going on. She was given a £5 note as a thank you and it was signed by Lord Wavell, one of the people who attended the meeting.”

Peter D’Auganno, who now runs the pub, and a number of other volunteers are organising the free, all-day event on Saturday, June 7th involving the whole community including the youth club, Stoke Rovers FC, primary school and the parish and district councils.

The event will include a parade of around 100 Army and RAF cadets with the HMS Heron Royal Navy band from RNAS Yeovilton, a short service of remembrance, a WWII American Army re-enactment group and a static display about the role of the Royal Observer Corp. The Knatchbull Arms will play a full role in the day, with live music from Tim Pitman, the Cat’s Pyjamas and Breeze.

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My Normandy landing RADIO operator Tom Poore is all-too understated about his memories of taking part in D-Day. As an 18-year-old in the Yorkshire regiment, Tom was in the second wave of the invasion force and says Sword Beach was relatively quiet when they went ashore: “Yes, they were shooting but it was over our heads. It was so

Austerity remembered

HERE’S the menu for the Memorial Tearooms being held in Stoke St Michael’s Memorial Hall: Austerity Tea: spam sandwich, slice of cake, cup of tea Landgirl’s Tea: bread, cheese and pickle, slice of cake, cup of tea Victory Tea: salmon and cucumber sandwich, scone, jam and cream, slice of luxury cake, pot of tea (served on bone china) Lady Churchill’s Cream Tea: two scones, jam and cream, pot of tea Mr Godfrey’s High Tea: scrambled egg, two slices of toast, cup of tea

quiet, I thought they’d gone to lunch.”

Tom will be amongst the guests at Stoke St Michael’s D-Day event; he lives just a few yards from the Knatchbull Arms but admits he is still puzzled as to why the British and American generals chose it as the venue for their meeting.

Tom, originally from south London, had always been interested in radio and joined the BBC as a 16-year-old before he was called up for military service in 1943. He returned to the corporation after the war, later moving to Bristol, where he became one of its most influential film editors, specialising in some of Sir David Attenborough’s most celebrated wildlife documentaries.

Some 20 years after the war ended, Tom returned to Normandy with his wife and was sitting having lunch overlooking the beach when a German family pulled up in their car. Tom said: “We started talking and it transpired that the man – a super chap – had been in the same pillbox from where the shots had come when we landed. We had a lovely talk.”

A village gives thanks RESIDENTS of Rodney Stoke, near Cheddar, are planning their own special way to mark the centenary of the

St Leonard’s church nestles beneath the Mendip slopes

outbreak of the First World War. As one of only 53 “Thankful Villages” in England and Wales – so called because every villager returned alive from the conflict – Rodney Stoke’s tribute will be something of a celebration.

It is hosting a Thankful Village flower and craft festival on Saturday, June 14th and Sunday, June 15th to raise funds for the upkeep of its 12th Century church. A stained glass “thanksgiving” window installed in St Leonard’s church in 1920 remains a reminder of the village’s gratitude to the 17 men – and four women – who returned to the parish.

The festival will be centred on the church and there will be flower arrangements, craft displays and scarecrows as well as traditional teas and lunches. The festival runs from 10am6pm each day.

Elsewhere, a flower festival will be held at St Aldhelm’s Church in Doulting in July to raise funds towards the restoration of its war

HISTORY

Understated – Tom Poore will be amongst the guests at the D-Day event

Tom’s main brush with danger came whilst he was in Holland: “We were being shelled and one landed quite close to the garden where I was standing. The blast threw me off my feet and into a greenhouse and I cut my arm quite badly. I was in hospital for two weeks in Holland and enjoyed my stay immensely!”

The window in St Leonard’s – a plaque beneath lists the names of all the servicemen who fought in the First World War

memorial on the west wall of the nave.

Organisers would like to hear from anyone who has information about the names on the memorial. The festival will take place from Friday, July 11th to Sunday, July 13th.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 37

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MENDIP TIMES

Making the right choice

AFTER recently being rated outstanding

by Ofsted – making it one of the top performing colleges in the country – Weston is now officially a Further AND Higher Education establishment and says there has never been a better time to choose it for all your education and training needs.

This status follows a successful bid to the government and means that Weston College will be able to significantly expand its provision of degree-level courses, leading to many more new jobs for the town and surrounding area.

Dr Paul Phillips, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, said this new status complements the continuing development of the South West Skills Campus, extensions to the University Campus, improvements to the Knightstone Campus and the development of the North Somerset Enterprise and Technology Centre, with the eventual aim of establishing a ‘University Centre’ in the town.

Weston College prides itself on offering outstanding exam results, year

Students and staff celebrate Joe and Tanya's teaching awards

after year, proven post-course progression into higher education or employment, fantastic facilities, superb support for students and employers, and teaching staff with extensive industry experience.

The growing range of courses include A Levels, apprenticeships, vocational courses, traineeships, degrees, courses for the unemployed and work-related courses. And there is still time to choose to go to the college; even if you have already accepted a place at another college, it’s not too late to change your

Lecturers win top awards TWO Weston College students-turnedlecturers have scooped major honours in the Further Education (FE) category of a prestigious national teaching awards programme. Joe Abdulgani and Tanya Gardener have been named as Silver Teaching Award Winners in the 2014 Pearson Teaching Awards.

Joe, a lecturer in computing, and Tanya, a care and early years lecturer,

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

were selected from among 20,000 nominees across the UK. Their selection means Weston College is the only establishment to have two people among the five FE category finalists.

The pair, who both live in Westonsuper-Mare, will join their fellow Silver Award winners at the UK final of the Teaching Awards at London’s Guildhall on October 26th, where ten Silver

mind.

Dr Phillips said: “If you want the very best education, to give you the best possible start towards your brighter future, Weston College is the outstanding choice. And if you are worried that you are going to miss out, don’t be, because there is still plenty of time to make the right choice.”

There is an opening evening at the college on Wednesday June 18th between 4pm and 8pm if you want to see for yourself what Weston has to offer.

Award winners will receive a Gold Award. The ceremony will be filmed and broadcast by the BBC. The Pearson Teaching Awards are an annual celebration of exceptional teachers and teaching. Founded in 1999

by Lord Puttnam, they recognise the life-changing impact of an inspirational teacher on the lives of the young people they teach.

In the citations, Joe and Tanya were described as ‘outstanding’, ‘innovative’ and ‘inspirational’.

Tanya said: “I was overwhelmed to hear that I had won this award, I am over the moon. To receive recognition like this for something I love doing is just amazing. It tells me that I am getting things right, and really helping our learners with their studies and development.

“I used to enjoy my lessons here when I was a student, and when I became a teacher I was determined to do everything I could to make my lessons fun; if you are enjoying yourself and having a good time, you are far more likely to take more in and learn more.”

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EDUCATION

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 39

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Transport provided

CHILTON Cantelo School, near Sherborne and Yeovil, provides transport for pupils across Somerset. The co-ed, day and boarding school accepts pupils from nursery through to sixth form. The new nursery can be booked for either term-time or all-year enrolment.

Set in 20 acres of parkland, Chilton Cantelo provides an individualised learning approach from Early Years to Sixth Form in which the teachers create tailored programmes of learning for each pupil. Appropriate targets are set after regular reviews to ensure each pupil progresses with the right amount of challenge.

The next Open Day is June 27th and the next Lecture Series talk is by Adam Boulton, Political Journalist, taking place on June 26th.

Call 01935 850555 to reserve places

Public Lecture Series 26 June Adam Boulton, Political Broadcaster Open Morning 27 June

PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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All Hallows – the benefits of true independence

FAMILIES who have discovered All Hallows, an award-winning rural prep school in Somerset, have long known the benefits of true independence when it comes to education.

Unfettered by ever-changing government guidelines and policies, and with a long-standing tradition of innovation, All Hallows is able to offer a cutting edge curriculum which offers genuine interest and relevance for the children and prepares them for the future they will be part of and contribute to.

Not having to teach towards assessments also means that the learning opportunities are genuinely child centred and teaching can be differentiated to suit the learning profiles of all children.

Not being aligned to a particular senior school also holds great benefits. The school provides a fantastic ‘launch pad’ to a wide range of renowned senior schools across the country with as many as 65% of All Hallows children receiving

scholarships and awards across a wide range of disciplines including Academic, Sport, Art, Music as well as All Rounder awards.

All Hallows children are much sought after when they leave at 13, as they are recognised as having received an excellent holistic education. For parents, this independence means that the options are plentiful and varied on leaving All Hallows and the focus can genuinely be

EDUCATION

on selecting the right school for each child.

Director of Learning, Trevor Richards, said: “The joy of All Hallows is that we have the freedom to make decisions based on evidence and the learning agenda is run entirely based upon the best interests of the children. This in turn leads to the best possible outcomes for them and makes for a fun, engaging and happy educational experience.”

For more information on All Hallows, please visit www.allhallowsschool.co.uk. For admission enquiries please contact Jan Bird on 01749 881600 email admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 41

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MENDIP TIMES

Another berry to the bunch!

MARTINA Loxton is the latest recruit to Red Berry’s Shepton Mallet office, thanks to further expansion, helping commercial and industrial consultants with CV searches and general marketing.

With 16 staff and an apprentice starting shortly, the company has gone from strength to strength, providing a range of staff, from engineers, secretaries, PAs, labourers, sales, accounts and warehouse operatives, to name just a few.

Meanwhile agency founder Helen Lacey has been shortlisted for a third time by the Institute of Directors (IoD) South West Director Awards in the Young Director category.

Helen won the award in 2012 and was Highly Commended last year. Helen founded Red Berry Recruitment, with offices in Shepton Mallet and Yeovil in 2007 and today has a third office in Bridgwater and a turnover of over £3m.

Brighten up your event

JANE Nisbet and Shirley Avis both live in Theale near Wedmore and have embarked with lots of energy and enthusiasm on a business hiring out bunting for weddings, parties etc.

Jane has had lots of fun choosing fabric and making the bunting over the last year. They have sufficient bunting for ten marquees and initially want to concentrate on the West Country and in particular Somerset, but will be happy also to hire it to anyone who lives further afield.

If you have a wedding or special event approaching and would like to hire well-made competitively priced quality bunting to decorate a hall, marquee or private room, for example, do check out their website.

Jane's Bunting Wide range of bunting, banners and bows for hire, for marquees, halls, weddings and parties

A new child and baby shop at Farrington's

Contact Jane 01934 710430 Shirley 01934 712023 www.janesbunting.co.uk

• Accounts preparation for sole traders, partnerships and small companies • Business taxation and self-assessment returns • Payroll services • Small business start-up advice • Free initial consultation

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Beautiful clothing, traditional toys, keepsakes & oodles of cute accessories!

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BUSINESS

Getting creative – the art of business ONCE a week I have the pleasure of spending a day in an art studio painting with a group of people, who have, over the years, become friends.

We are all (dare I say it) painters of some competence and our long-suffering tutor – a truly remarkable and versatile artist in his own right – does his very best to guide us (when we are prepared to listen and behave, that is) through the problem areas of our paintings: “Are you sure that eye should be quite so close to the left nostril?” and “Wouldn’t you prefer to take up knitting?” may be some of the advice which comes our way.

Needless to say, there is a lot of laughter in our group, as well as lots of tea and a heap of chatter throughout the day. I wouldn’t be without that day and the release which comes from spending time in pure creativity. Not only creating, but enjoying art – even arguing about it – encourages us to think differently and to stimulate our minds in a way which gives us a mental holiday from day to day living.

Knowing that, and knowing how frustrating it can be when there isn’t enough time to spend in creativity, I am aware how important organisations like our own Somerset Art Works is. SAW, a not-forprofit company, undertakes a two-fold task – it sets the stage for local artists – a number of whom are known on a national and international stage – providing much-needed advertising for them, and it creates a guide for art lovers for a wonderful two week “artfest” which can take us on a tour of our beautiful county and some of its highly talented inhabitants.

This year, the Somerset Art Weeks take place between

September 21st and October 5th.

You might also want to get hold of a brochure of the event when it’s completed. If you are interested, then the people at SAW would love to hear from you. You can, of course, find all details on their website, www.somersetartworks.org.uk or you can email them at info@somersetartworks.org.uk and if you are not on-line, they do have a telephone: 01458 253800.

Meanwhile, I shall just get back to my knitting. I’m on to my third dishcloth as we speak…

Jane Bowe ProBusiness

Mendip Times Due to continuing expansion we have a vacancy for a van driver to help with deliveries for one week a month

Send details to: enquiries@mendiptimes.co.uk

CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY

Duvets & Bedspreads washed & dried Sheets and Duvet covers washed and pressed Professional efficient service Collection & delivery service in the Chew Valley

Tel 01761 451787

www.cameleylodgelaundry.co.uk

Where am I now?

Where do I want to be?

How do I get there?

What’s stopping me?

Your financial questions answered Probusiness Ltd, Business Accountants and Advisers, St. Lawrence Lodge, 37 Chamberlain Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2PQ T: 01749 677989 F: 01749 672651 E: mail@probusinessuk.com W: www.probusinessuk.com MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 43

Photo by Ignyte Limited Radstock

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A new Watts – so what’s next!

THEY may deal with some fairly ancient goods, but there’s nothing old-fashioned about the business approach of Somerset Reclamation, based at Ston Easton.

With people visiting and through their online Somerset Shop they are doing a growing trade and have introduced a new computer system to cope with demand.

Over the last few years John has increased the garden furniture range from benches to baskets, arches to suits of armour, while still having the reclamation yard full of interesting finds!

John and Claire, have also been productive – son Oliver arrived four months ago to join Ruby, aged four, and Jazmin, nearly six.

John’s father, David, founded the business and is still busy sourcing material, as well as running beef cattle, while John’s sister, Michelle Hellard, runs Hay Street Riding Club at the farm.

ts vent rn en ilim E Easte Ev 1st: K iddlee 2 : M usic Jun 4th m y Jul

HANDMADE ARTISAN RUGS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

At Oriental Rugs of Bath we have a beautiful selection of rugs, furnishings, clothing, bags and accessories. We have a large showroom with free onsite parking Please contact us on: 01761 451 764 or visit: www.orientalrugsofbath.com Bookbarn International, Wells Road, Hallatrow, Bristol BS39 6EX

RUGS CLEANED RUGS RESTORED

RUGS VALUED

Events

June 21st (3pm): Kilim Event with free nibbles and drinks July 4th (2pm): FREE evening of Middle East music – Hypnotic sounds of the Middle East, played by Maren Lueg and Chas Whittaker – Oriental Rugs of Bath 21st Anniversary!

Open 7 days a week Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm Sun 11am-5pm PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Bennetts is a niche and boutique commercial law firm operating out of modern offices at Barley Wood Stables, Long Lane, Wrington.

Our lawyers combine specialist legal knowledge with broad practical experience.

We can be relied on to give clear and positive advice on a wide range of complex or routine matters whether preventative or remedial.

Bennetts Solicitors Attorneys & Notaries Barley Wood Stables, Long Lane, Wrington Bristol BS40 5SA Phone: (44) 1934 862786 • Fax: (44) 1934 862404 Webpage: www.bennettlaw.co.uk e-mail: info@bennettlaw.co.uk

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Mendip Times reduces travel costs

100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

CG Accounting ECATCHER MOL

NO MOLE NO FEE Telephone 01275 332966 www.mendipmolecatcher.co.uk

Offers Professional Services including…

• Bookkeeping • Management and Year End Accounts • Budgets and Forecasts • Payroll and VAT • Company Secretarial Services Telephone: 01749 677929 Mobile: 07989 364521 E-mail: clive.greener@googlemail.com

BUSINESS

HIRE

Plant & Tools Hire & Sales • HIRE • SALES • REPAIR

Huge stocks of Tools & Equipment • Compactors • Drills • Cultivators • Angle Grinders • Breakers • Hedge Trimmers • Saws • Ladders • Rotavators • Hoists • Tile Cutters • Scarifiers • Scaffold Towers • Chain Saws • Carpet Cleaners Open Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:00 • Sat 8:00-12:00

Long or Day Hire Delivery & Collection Service Trade & DIY

01934 743543 www.cheddarhire.co.uk Wideatts Road, Cheddar BS27 3AP

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 45

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Scarecrow invasion

Preparing to celebrate

THE Winscombe and Sandford Festival, from June 20thJuly 6th, promises to be a much bigger affair than the first festival held in 2010.

It will include more than 60 events, involving most of the clubs and societies in the area, and cover a huge range of interests and activities.

There will be a marquee on the cricket ground this time for some large-scale events, which were not possible four years ago, including a fashion show, a talk about antiques by Paul Atterbury of the Antiques Roadshow and a WW1 commemorative dinner in aid of Help for Heroes.

The organisers say: “The support for Festival 2014 confirms once again that we live in a special place. In a recent survey Winscombe ranked the third best place in the country for children to be brought up. Festival 2014 will show that it is quite a good place for adults too.”

Many of the events are free. Tickets for others are available from The Wine Shop in Winscombe.

Details: 01934 843728

BIRDS BAKERY

Tel: Winscombe 01934 842210

• Modern or traditional flowers and plants • Wedding and funeral designs • Gift, party business or event floristry • Balloons and balloon Decor • Local deliveries • Telephone orders • Pay by card or cash The Florist Shop Winscombe 6 Ashley Close, Winscombe, North Somerset BS25 1DB Tel: 01934 84200 thefloristshopwinscombe@btconnect.com www.thefloristshopwinscombe.vpweb.co.uk

PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Litsters Traditional Butcher Free local delivery for Winscombe and surrounding areas 27 Woodborough Road

Winscombe North Somerset BS25 1AG

01934 842248 Mob: 07772 007128

clivelitster@tiscali.co.uk

YOU can expect an invasion of scarecrows in Winscombe and Sandford on June 28th and 29th, if the Scarecrow Extravaganza held during the last festival is anything to go by.

It’s being organised by Jane and Gerald Lloyd who are planning to have a map ready by June 27th showing where the scarecrows can be found around the area.

The map will be on the parish website www.winscombeandsandfordpc.org.uk and will be available from St. James’s church hall on both days 11am-5.30pm.

Details: Jane and Gerald Lloyd 01934 842468

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Festival remembers the First World War

THE Winscombe and Sandford Festival will culminate in a black tie dinner and charity ball, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I, and raising funds for the Help for Heroes charity.

The five-course black tie event for 300 people will take place on Friday July 4th and the Roll of Honour of those from the parish who lost their lives will be read during a moment of silence.

Two local sisters, Jo and Lorna Nipper, have been accepted for the Help for Heroes cycle ride from Brussels to Paris, passing through various WW1 battlefields. They are now training hard and need to raise £2,600 each for the charity by the end of August.

During the dinner a charity auction will take place to support them with some outstanding items on offer including dinners for two, paintings from a well-known Bristol artist, weekend retreats, and many more.

Tickets for the evening at £40 can be obtained from The Wine Shop, Winscombe, 01934 708312 – kelli@winetasting.com or Church Office, Church Hall, Winscombe 01934 84650 – administrator@winscombeandsandfordchurches.co.uk or from Steve Bridges, 01934 842386 – steve.bridges60@btinternet.com

WINSCOMBE & SANDFORD

Have your say

WINSCOMBE Community Association is holding a public meeting at the community centre on June 25th to hear suggestions on how the centre should be developed in the future.

It says: “Winscombe Community Centre is a wonderful asset. We want to ensure facilities continue and are developed to meet the needs of our community for generations to come.”

The evening will launch the start of a parish-wide consultation on how the centre should be developed. The meeting starts at 7.30pm.

Colin Coates & Partners Tax advisors For personal tax, business tax and accountancy advice Free initial consultation 01934 844133 • www.ccptax.com Webs House, Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1AD

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 47

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Winscombe May Fair

Local MP John Penrose opened the fair

Helen Baker (left) and Liz Linham from Sandford Pre-School

The event had to be held indoors because of the bad weather

Dancers from Winscombe School

WI members (l to r) Shirley Davies, Lorna Scherer and Sue Sandifer PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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WINSCOMBE & SANDFORD

Late night shopping

WINSCOMBE’S shops will hold a Late Night Shopping evening during the festival, staying open until at least 8.30pm on Tuesday June 24th, with a variety of events and other attractions.

The library will be open through to 9pm for stories and rhymes for the under -5s and their parents and carers, while the scouts will be outside Orris and Low providing strawberry teas.

There will be hand-bell ringers outside the former HSBC Bank, Pimms and Thatchers cider at the Woodborough and a bouncy castle in Jones’ car park, as well as competitions and special promotions.

About 20 shops will be open on the night, showcasing what Winscombe has to offer.

Store’s new range

THE Country House Gift Company in Winscombe is now stocking Emma Bridgewater pottery.

Their collection ranges from jugs to tea-towels, and they’ve hand-picked their favourite patterns and designs, including pieces from the famous Toast and Marmalade collection.

Pop into the store to see for yourself or buy online at www.countryhousegiftcompany.co.uk

j

A enta

INTERIORS

LOCAL STOCKIST

FINE FABRICS • BESPOKE WINDOW DRESSINGS • QUALITY FLOORING Made to measure curtains and all types of blinds.

Full fitting service including tracks and poles.

Bespoke rugs made to order.

Measuring, quote, supply and fitting service for all types of high quality floor coverings.

Suppliers and installers of natural and unnatural flooring

T 01934 842755 • E info@ajentainteriors.co.uk • W www.ajentainteriors.co.uk Ajenta Interiors • 11 Woodborough Road • Winscombe • Somerset BS25 1AB MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 49

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Revealing Winscombe’s past

DESPITE Mick Aston’s untimely death last year at the end of June, his Winscombe team are continuing with their research into the history of the parish’s people and its settlement. Since the end of 2009 over 150 metre-square test pits have now been dug in gardens and orchards in the settlement at Winscombe, Woodborough, Barton, Sidcot and Sandford.

The pottery collected from the test pits is helping to identify the areas where people lived in the medieval period. Twentysix pits were dug in Sidcot and a plot of the medieval pottery shows a concentration around Meadowside at the top of Fountain Lane, whereas in Barton the medieval pottery is spread fairly evenly along the length of the whole settlement implying that it has always been a similar size and layout to what it is today.

Historical work has continued and the translation of court rolls and account rolls has helped to bring the past to life with residents such as Isak de la Combe, whose wife Agnes was paying 3s 9d rent following his death in 1336, and John and Edith Wyke who rented a new piece of meadow called Personsmead for 7s in1366. Combe may be either Hale or Sidcot Combe, and Wyke, now a deserted settlement, lay to the south of Shipham Lane.

It is hoped that some of the account rolls which are yet to be translated will help solve the mystery of the area’s disappearing cheese. Up until 1336 a great deal of cheese was being produced in the parish – 176 cheeses weighing 53 stones in 1336. By 1342 cheese was no longer being produced and had to be bought in to feed people at the Christmas feast and during the harvest.

Members of the Somerset Vernacular Building Research Group have spent the last four years recording a selection of over 60 buildings in the parish (and areas of former parish) to complement the work being done on the project. This has given an overall picture of the survival of the oldest buildings in the different settlements within the parish.

Barton and Sandford have cottages dating back to the 13th and 15th centuries whereas most of the buildings near the church in Winscombe, the historic centre of the parish, were rebuilt in the Victorian period. Normally in building survey work, dendrochronology (a dating technique using the patterns of spaces between tree rings) is used on timbers in order to date old properties. However, virtually all the wood used in the houses of the parish is elm, which cannot be dated by this method.

James and Tina Bond surveying Woodborough Mill

The SVBRG took the unusual step of having some of the roof timbers dated using radio-carbon dating and they were able to tie down the date of an unusual type of roof truss (of which there are three in the parish) to the mid-15th century.

The group have just published their report on the buildings of the parish and copies (£15) can be obtained from Maria Forbes – forbes_maxmills@hotmail.com James and Tina Bond have carried out a survey of the standing remains/ruins of Woodborough Mill. Winscombe had three mills: the oldest and most important was Max Mills, which was probably founded when the estate belonged to Glastonbury Abbey, at some time between the 10th and 13th centuries. There was also a windmill, recorded between 1305 and 1540, which stood on the Lynch and formed part of the manor of Winscombe.

And finally Woodborough Mill which is first mentioned in the historical records in the 13th century, when the lord of the sub manor of Woodborough, one Henry Lovestheft, was recorded giving an alder grove near his mill to the church of Winscombe. The mill can be seen by the footpath that runs from Nut Tree Farm across the fields to Max Mills.

Test-pitting will take place through the summer and into the autumn. Anyone wishing to participate in the Winscombe Project should initially get in touch with Maria Forbes.

Teresa Hall

The Woodborough Inn We have an extensive menu and wine list with freshly-prepared daily specials and seasonal favourites Party menus available for all special occasions Hotel accommodation with first class rooms available Skittle alley to hire with a choice of buffet menus Excellent disabled access and facilities Fine wines, real ales and cider Ample car parking All major credit cards accepted Book on your meal on 01934 844167 or email us on woodborough.inn@btconnect.com

WIDE RANGE OF OFFERS AND PROMOTIONS For full details of offers available call us on 01934 820339 Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri 8.30-1pm Saturday

THE CORN STORE • HILL ROAD • SANDFORD PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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Library backs festival

WINSCOMBE & SANDFORD

FOLLOWING extensive refurbishment by North Somerset Council last summer, Winscombe Library is seeing a new lease of life with an enthusiastic group of volunteers helping to provide more services and open the library for longer. It’s staging various events to support the Winscombe and Sandford Festival, including late-night opening on June 24th. Training on the popular Ancestry.com family history website will be offered on Wednesday June 25th. Booking is essential for this so book early!

To see details of all of their events during the festival go to www.n-somerset.gov.uk/libraries

24a Woodborough Road, Winscombe North Somerset BS25 1AD For appointments tel: 01934 843617

OSTEOPATHY Janet White CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY Danielle Crawshaw ACUPUNCTURE Dan Lloyd REFLEXOLOGY Polly Hall THAI FOOT MASSAGE HOMEOPATHY Patricia Clark HYPNOTHERAPY Susan Ritson HOT STONE, INDIAN & Amy Chandler NATURAL FACELIFT MASSAGE HOPI EAR CANDLING

www.hampdenosteopaths.co.uk

10 Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1AA Tel: 01934 842811 We also have offices at Worle and Weston-super-Mare

Residential & Commercial Property Divorce & Family Breakdown Criminal & Motoring Offences Disputes & Dispute Resolution Wills, Trusts & Tax Probate & Estates Special Needs of the Elderly Lasting Powers of Attorney Business Matters Friendly local office with own car park at rear Home visits by arrangement • Quotations given without obligation Contact: Ruth Berry, Roger Burdock, Jack Rogers, Anne Mehlig or Vanessa Dawson

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 51

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WINSCOMBE & SANDFORD

Get brewing

WINSCOMBE’S famous Michaelmas Fair, established more than 30 years ago, is adding a new section this year – a home brew competition, featuring wine, cider, beer and sloe gin!

Although the fair isn’t until September 13th, the organisers want to give entrants plenty of time to get brewing. The fair committee are also looking for more volunteers.

Details: Jill Cureton on 01934 843776

Try something new

EACH year Acutabove, joins Aveda to celebrate Earth Month, which unites professionals and guests alike to help raise awareness and money to protect clean water rights at home and around the world.

On Winscombe’s late night shopping night on June 24th the Acutabove team invite you to join them for a glass of bubbly, when they will be testing their own culinary skills, serving tasters from their Aveda Earth Month recipe book.

Sports injury specialist

REBECCA Eagle graduated with a first class honours degree in Sports Therapy from the University of Bath. She has invaluable first hand experience of both clinical and pitchside environments as well as several years experience lecturing on the University of Bath Sports Therapy programme.

Rebecca now runs the injury clinic, based at Peter Everett’s osteopathic practice in Winscombe. She offers the assessment of injuries and ailments, a variety of treatments and techniques, including ultrasound and mobilisations, rehabilitation exercises to compliment recovery, advice on preventing injuries, as well as sports massage.

Sandford Station open

PETER EVERETT Registered Osteopath 12 Woodborough Road Winscombe BS25 1AA

T: 01934 844764

Winscombe Fish Bar

Traditional high quality food from friendly and reliable staff

Mon Tues Weds 11.30–2pm and 5–10pm Thurs 11.30–2pm and 5–10.30pm Fri Sat 11.30–2.30pm and 5–10.30pm

Gluten and wheat-free night the last Sunday of every month

Also at Mendip Suite, Wrington Vale Medical Practice, Pudding Pie Lane, Langford BS50 5EL PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

1, Sandford Road, Winscombe

01934 843666

SANDFORD Station Railway Heritage Centre, in the historic gem of its Bristol and Exeter booking office, will be open during the festival weeks between 11am and 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Hot and cold drinks are available, with tables on the platform or in wagons. There are even toy trains for children’s play – and admission is free.

The Jacaranda team would like to invite you to join us for some nibbles and to try some complementary feather hair extensions on the evening of Tuesday 24th June from 5.30 - 7.30.

Hair consulta ons also available we look forward to seeing you!!

Jacaranda Hair Salon

6 The Lynch Winscombe 01934 842339 www.jacarandasalon.com

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WILDLIFE

IT is at this time of year that crows and magpies come in for some very bad press and find themselves among the least popular of our wild

By CHRIS birds.

SPERRING They are MBE predominantly carrion feeders, but can eat almost anything and during the nesting season become nest raiders, seeking out and eating the eggs and chicks of other birds. This is nature’s way, of course, and in order to be a successful nest thief you need some intelligence and a good dose of perseverance and patience. All of which this family has in abundance.

But what happens when the two corvid species (members of the crow family) come together?

Our story starts some three years ago when a pair of magpies took up residence in and around my garden.

They built their large, cup-shaped stick nest – complete with stick roof – at the top of a mature overhanging hawthorn. I watched as they successfully reared two chicks, and caused some degree of havoc in my garden; with blackbird, robin and wren all kicking up a din of alarm calls every time any of the magpie family was near. The blackbird nest in my hedge was lost that year when the chicks were half grown and the magpies were probably to blame.

A crow and magpie in a tussle

Night on the tiles? Magpies preening

The following year and the magpies returned. The nest was built as before and the female began sitting tight on her eggs. In my garden that year, we had a pair of great tits, wren, robin and blackbird all nesting. As I watched one morning, a magpie appeared in the garden, presumably the partner of the sitting bird, and the blackbirds immediately began their noisy alarm calling.

A robin boldly dive-bombed the magpie then suddenly the magpie itself uttered an alarm call, surely not in response to the feisty little robin? I then realised that a carrion crow had appeared in the very top of my silver birch tree. It leant forward, barking out its short, harsh call repeatedly.

Within seconds, a second crow appeared and landed on the ground in the garden. The magpie continued with its rattling alarm call and started flying at the crow on the ground, harassing it with all its might. Meanwhile, the first crow flew from the birch to the top of the hawthorn tree and the sitting magpie made the error of leaving her nest to chase the crow away.

At that moment the crow from the ground made its move, flying up to the nest and tearing at the protective sticks until it could reach the eggs inside. The other crow joined it and the nest was empty in minutes. The magpies not only abandoned the nest site, but both left the garden and now the crows became

Photography by Chris Sperring

Who needs a new version of Star Wars? We have Corvid Wars!

kings.

For the small birds, you might think this was a case of “out of the frying pan and into the fire” but, surprisingly, we have had far more fledglings survive during the last two years since the crows took over the neighbourhood than we did in the previous two when the magpies were in charge.

These crows don’t seem to be patrolling the hedges looking for nests, as the magpies did; instead they have developed a taste for another of their kin, the jackdaw. We have around 20 pairs of jackdaw nesting in the chimneypots of surrounding houses and the crows patrol these nests daily. They can’t fit into the nesting chambers, but keep careful tabs on the occupants, so that they know when the chicks are old enough to come to the entrance, and can be easily reached. Again, the crows work as a team, with one drawing attention to itself and making itself the target for the angry mob of divebombing jackdaws, whilst the other sneaks in and grabs a chick.

In our area, we have five members of the crow family and I suppose playing out in my garden is a sort of hierarchical relationship between some of them.

Jackdaws come at the bottom, with magpies in the middle and crows at the top. Aside from occasional visiting jays, we also have an ever-increasing number of ravens nearby, so perhaps the Game of Thrones is not over yet!

For more real-life “soap opera” action, tune into our fabulous webcam, streaming live from inside a wild barn owl nest in Somerset: http://www.somersetwildlife.org/barn_owl_web_cam.html Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him on 07799 413 918 or via chris.sperring@btinternet.com

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 53

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Bath’s green tunnels THIS is a magical journey along an old railway route through Bath, Combe Down and Midford and going through two amazing restored and lit tunnels – one playing music! Stop at a great pub at Midford and then climb gently up to pretty South Stoke and across and down to Bath and back onto the old line. One tunnel is a quarter of a mile long and the other a mile, with portholes in the centre playing classical music triggered by your approach. Both are well lit and very fresh and airy. There is a steady climb up to South Stoke on footpaths, and later a steep but short climb out of Lyncombe Vale.

Enjoy good views over the country and also across Bath. A word of warning – watch out for cyclists sharing the route.

PARK: In the Oldfield Park/South Twerton area of Bath along the road by Sandpits Play Park. Follow directions carefully to get there: take the A36 along the south of Bath to the crossroads with Windsor Bridge Road and Brook Road with the Royal Oak pub on the corner and near the gas works. Turn into Brook Road and continue to Oldfield Park station.

Cross the railway and bear right down into West Avenue. Stay on it to the left and uphill to the end. Turn left in Cynthia Road all the way to a T-junction at the end. Then go right and left by and old dairy following Welcome Road to a

slanted T junction. Go right in Beckhampton Road and right again into Monksdale Road, then under the metal bridge which is the Linear Park (old railway) route and reach a play area, Sandpits, with plenty of roadside parking.

walking and cycling tunnel in Britain – about a mile long (20-25 minutes).

In the middle enjoy a number of portholes playing classical music, triggered by your approach.

1. DEVONSHIRE TUNNEL At Bloomfield pass three metal sculptured figures on the right and enter the first tunnel – the Devonshire Tunnel – a quarter of a mile long, dry underfoot and well lit.

The two Tunnels Greenway route was opened in April 2013 and is a spectacular part of Sustrans’ UK-wide project to extend the National Cycle Network. Come out and continue on.

4. MIDFORD Continue all the way to the former Midford Station with the old platform and come to the back of the welcoming Hope and Anchor. Go out onto the main road and immediately cross to take the Limestone Link footpath opposite – at the side of the pub sign. This leads you under the old railway and soon into a green valley where the old Somerset Coal canal used to run. Just before you reach the restored arched aqueduct over left, fork right on a small footpath which crosses the

START: Head back towards the metal bridge (toilets on left) and bear up right by short wooden posts to join the Linear Park route using the old railway. Turn right and continue along quite high. There is a very gentle incline up much of the way.

2. COMBE DOWN TUNNEL At Lyncombe Vale enter the longest

With Sue Gearing PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

3. TUCKING MILL Come out at Tucking Mill and go over the spectacular viaduct with the fishing lake below. As you continue, look up right to Midford Castle, a folly castle built in 1775 for Henry Disney Roebuck in the shape of the “clubs” symbol used in playing cards.

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WALKING

old canal on the right and then takes you up to join the lane in Upper Midford.

5. LANE Turn left for a few minutes. Reach a farm and a choice of two footpaths. Take the second right, which goes ahead on the right on the flat. Pass the farmhouse and other homes. Just continue on the path through a number of kissing gates through this small valley. It rises up towards South Stoke.

Climb a little more steeply to a junction of paths on the edge of the village. And turn left on the flat to reach the village lane.

6. SOUTH STOKE Turn right uphill, passing the 400-year-old pub the Packhorse which I remember fondly from several other walks. Sadly it closed in May 2012. But now the community is rallying to try to buy the pub and continue its life as a much-loved local.

Go round the other side of the small green above. There is a south-facing seat ideal for a picnic with a great view. Go up the South Stoke lane behind, which takes you onto the plateau. Continue on the pavement to the main road in Combe Down with the Cross Keys pub opposite. Go straight over into South Stoke Road. After a few minutes, just past the entrance to Valley Springs, turn right on Shepherds Walk.

7. SHEPHERD’S WALK This footpath gives great views right over the valley. Join a residential road for a few yards but then continue on the footpath.

Follow it all the way to the end, and turn left up the lane. This leads up to the A3062 at Combe Down.

8. FOX HILL Cross over into Fox Hill. Pass houses and then the huge old wartime MOD site on the right, now scheduled for redevelopment.

The road soon ends for traffic. Continue on down on the steep Tarmac. Bend right and continue down, bending left and following the road. Come into Perrymead passing the cemetery on your right and some fine old Bath houses.

7.7 miles. 4 hours walking OS Explorer Bristol & Bath, 155, grid ref: 717658.

9. MAIN ROAD At the end, at the A3062 main road, turn left.

10. ROSEMOUNT LANE Shortly, turn left into Lyncombe Vale, and almost immediately right into Rosemount Lane which climbs steeply up to join Lyncombe Hill. Go left and very shortly take the marked footpath on the right which leads up into a field.

11. FIELD Turn left along the bottom, and go on into

another field. At the end of this go through a hedge of trees into the bottom end of a school playing field with a grassy bank on the right. Continue to the end to a blue Warning sign. Turn up right across between pitches, taking care if play is on. Aim for the steps leading up to the school ahead. Here turn left on the Tarmac path which leads to a residential road. Turn left downhill, crossing a road on the way, and on down to the main road. Cross at the island and cross the next road by a Victorian water fountain, and go along left.

12. BEAR FLAT Soon reach Bear Flat and an open playing area and turn right through it on the Tarmac path. Halfway down, turn left and the path leads back onto the old line just before Devonshire Tunnel. Turn right and retrace your steps back to just before the green iron bridge where you drop down left to the start.

The Hope and Anchor, Midford tel 01225 832296.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 55

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MENDIP TIMES

OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s Diary

MAY has been a really busy month for me, with plenty of family birthdays and a few anniversaries of those family members no longer with me. There is also a lot going on in the countryside and a whole new generation of wildlife is seeing this world for the first time.

With LES It’s not all good news for them though; DAVIES MBE every day will be a struggle for survival and there will be casualties. No matter how cruel we think it is, the natural world has its balance and we can’t change that. Where there is life there will also be death and to see that can be quite upsetting.

I can’t help but think just how fast this year is going. When I was a child, school seemed to last forever and holidays were over in the blink of an eye. Well for me now, every day is a holiday and the days seem to fly by, so I am trying to make the most of them. I went to the North Somerset Agricultural Show on Bank Holiday Monday at Wraxall. I hadn’t been for a couple of years, but had a great day out!

There were lots of people having a good time and the weather was kind. As always there were plenty of people to bump into and have a chat with – they call it ‘networking’ these days, but it’s the same as it’s always been, whether you are leaning on a gate, the bonnet of a Land Rover or propping up the bar in your local.

Conversation is important and putting the world to rights is a popular countryside pursuit. Most of us are far too busy these days to take the time to stop and talk, but when we do our lives are all the richer for it.

It was also nice to go and have a look at the tractor pulling – again I haven’t seen it for quite a while. It’s a real boys’ thing with roaring engines and masses of diesel exhaust pouring out of pipes the size of a chimney stack. There is a great feeling of elation at watching these custom-made beasts drag the sledge as far as they can before stopping with one final grunt from the engine.

Like a body builder who has become grotesquely deformed, these machines are built with massive back wheels and tiny front wheels that claw uselessly in the air as the power thrust tries to wind the tractor around the back axle. I found that there are still reminders of the origins of this agricultural sport in some of the machines taking part and was delighted to see an old Fordson Super Major hook up to the sledge.

Yes it was stretched with a massive engine and had a turbocharger that seemed to be the size of one of those Dutch pumps that was draining the Levels a while back, but the origins of British tractor pulling from the late 1970s was still showing through. I remember names like ‘Avon Lady’, a tractor from Winford, if I remember correctly, with two international engines joined in line, and once saw ‘Funky Fergy’, a gutsy little T20 with over-sized rear wheels.

This little Ferguson wouldn’t stand a chance pulling today but epitomised the early days of improvisation and adaptation so strong in the agricultural world. Everything seemed to be built on to a Fordson Major back axle then, probably because there were plenty around, and they were quite robust.

Those days had all the thrills and gore of a Roman circus, with the crowd hungry for ‘full pulls’ and delighting in the misery of a blown turbo-charger (with its accompanying belching column of

white exhaust as the tractor came to a very sudden halt) or some other ‘expensive sound’ that dashed the hopes and dreams of an unfortunate competitor. It’s a little less ‘bloodthirsty’ now and rules and regulations govern the day; no doubt politics have crept into it as well. Still, it was great fun to watch!

I’ve had a day with a group of student teachers on Mendip.

They were great to be with and I think they enjoyed the day as well. I had been asked if I would run a training day for them after their coordinator Kit Whitely from Somerset Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) had listened to my Mendip talk. She felt that there was something in this landscape with its history and geology that would be a help for them in their future careers.

For my part I was so very pleased to be asked. It is nice to see that teaching ideas are now going back to getting children out of the classroom and into the world that surrounds them. I also watched two very good presentations from the group in St Hugh’s at Charterhouse. Everyone was impressed with this wonderful building and it was a great base to explain the history and mystery of Mendip that surrounded them.

So what is so exiting about the fields that surround the old school that is Charterhouse Centre? To the casual observer they are green fields with humps and hollows, but once you have the eyes to see, they become a link to the past, and to those who have gone before us.

The recognition of wild plants and trees is now starting to come back into the educational system and with it an understanding of their past use and future possibilities. Hunter-gatherers of the Palaeolithic period would have needed to be completely in tune with their natural surroundings to survive. They would have forgotten more than we will ever know about natural remedies and things to avoid – after all, they couldn’t download an ‘App’ onto their mobile phone to check something out, it all had to be done by trial and error.

Some of these new teachers had been able find jobs already, whilst others continued to trawl for interviews and appointments.

It’s not going to be easy for them to follow their chosen career, but I did feel that these were special people who could enthuse and encourage future generations to learn, appreciate and look after our world. It was once said that those who can ‘do’, and those who ‘can’t’ teach. I think that that was said by someone who had no communication skills at all.

Don’t forget to come and see the Environmental Youth Awards stand below the commentary box alongside the main arena at the Royal Bath and West Show this year. There is a new and exciting display with plenty to see. If you are a school or a youth group of any sort, you might like to think about entering next year. I’ll be at the show all week on the stand and helping out at the Cider and Orchard tent in between.

You can always contact me through my website: Westcountryman.co.uk

PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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YEO VALLEY ‘Over the next few months Yeo Valley will be bringing you a wide selection of guest writers from different areas of the family farm. Ranging from news from the garden, the farm team, the Mead family plus many more, we’ll be sharing a little about what’s going on behind the scenes here in the valley. Happy reading!’

CHARLOTTE JOHNS

YEO VALLEY EVENTS MANAGER

We’d like to introduce you to Charlotte Johns, our Event Manager.

After a 10-year stint in London, Charlotte returned to her Somerset roots, and joined Yeo Valley in 2012. Charlotte grew up in Compton Martin, and now lives in Chew Stoke with her fiancé Will and their dog Django.

NO day is ever the same for me. The events at Yeo Valley are so diverse; one day I can be on a boat on Blagdon Lake, motoring around with a photographer to get the perfect picture of Jamie Oliver fishing with Tim Mead. The next day I’m in my wellies hosting a farm tour and jumping into our purple Bedford truck or coordinating one of the events in the Yeo Valley Organic Garden. My job is all about letting people see that Yeo Valley is a real place, and spreading the message of British family farming, encouraging everyone to enjoy the fabulous food that comes from here in the UK. I organise all the events that go on here at Yeo Valley, so I’m ready for anything!

I always have my wellies in the back of my car as a day at my desk can quickly evolve to include a meeting on the farm, or an outing to try out one of the Farmlink walks. The Farmlink visits are designed to give children the opportunity to discover where their food comes from and to learn about the countryside. It’s a cause I feel passionate about.

I am very lucky to work with so many different people within the business, and the variety of my role means that I meet members of the farm and garden teams, as well as working with my colleagues in the marketing department. I also get to work closely with the Mead family, which is wonderful as they are so creative and have such an eye for detail. When it comes to events and bringing people to Yeo Valley HQ and our other stunning venues, Tim and Sarah’s ideas are invaluable.

I also really enjoy supporting the Yeo Valley Venues Team, they help bring lots of new faces to our HQ for conferences and to our restaurant. We have fabulous friendly staff who love meeting new guests for our Roast Wednesdays, Fishy Friday and Supper in the Garden events, as well as the monthly take-away nights. With all this delicious food around it really is a great place to work.

Events really take off during the summer The Yeo Valley Organic Garden is now open for the season through until October. We’re also launching our summer season of events, we have recently held a production of One Man and His Cow in association with Theatre Orchard, as well as a garden talk with Sir Roy Strong to list but a few.

From supporting local events like the Chew valley 1k to producing the YV stand at Glastonbury festival, we have lots going on this summer!

At Glastonbury there are lots of things to think of, from ensuring there is enough yogurt and ice cream to keep the 120,000 festival goers happy, to making sure that our staff are well supplied with water and that there are plenty of goodies for the barbeque.

I’m normally on site for 10 days; some people think that is lucky, I can tell you the loos after 10 days are enough to make you cry like a baby!

I love my job as it’s so diverse and I get to take on so many great challenges. Come rain or shine it’s set to be a great season of events, we hope that you can join us.

Find our full calendar of events at www.yeovalley.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 57

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MENDIP TIMES

S c en t s fo r a l l s ea s o n s ONE of the joys of a wander around a summer garden, especially in the early morning or evening, is the fragrance released from many flowering With MARY plants. The aim of this, PAYNE MBE from the plant’s point of view, is to attract pollinating insects, rather than for our enjoyment. However, I for one, am more than happy to play second fiddle to some insects.

Summer is not the only season for scent in the garden. With a little planning your garden can be delightfully smelly all year.

The following is a very limited selection from the hundreds of perfumed plants for our gardens that I consider worthy of gracing any garden.

January is not a month normally associated with fragrance, but the Christmas Box (Sarcococca) releases a powerful scent and every garden should have this accommodating, small evergreen shrub that tolerates shade so well. Most of the upright growing mahonias that flower so profusely in November have little scent, but in January the arching trusses of the pale lemon flowers of Mahonia japonica fill the air with the scent of lily of the valley, often to be followed by blue berries.

By February the snowdrops are in full flower and many are scented which you discover if you care to lie on your stomach! I prefer the easy approach and can stand to drink in the sweet scents of Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’. This is an upright, evergreen daphne from the Himalayas, and well worth planting in a lightly shaded spot.

Old-fashioned wallflowers are hard to beat in March, but try another low growing, evergreen shrub, perfect for shady areas, Skimmia x confusa ‘Kew Green’. This hybrid makes excellent ground cover for large banks. Upright heads of creamy green flowers release an extraordinarily powerful sweet scent.

So far all my selections have been evergreen woody plants but by April the herbaceous plants are on the move and join in the throng of burgeoning vegetation in the garden. An early riser is Corydalis elata sporting feathery foliage topped by intense blue tubular flowers that give off a strong fragrance. Plant this little gem in a lightly shaded spot that stays moist and it will continue to flower well into summer.

If it gets too dry it simply goes summer PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Corydalis elata

dormant and waits for next spring.

Many of the brooms (Cytisus) are scented but the sweetest smell belongs to the Porlock Broom, sold usually as simply Cytisus ‘Porlock’. It is a fast growing, evergreen shrub best in a sunny sheltered spot. Trim it back immediately after flowering if required.

May is a glorious month in the garden, so much is happening it is difficult to choose. Smilacina racemosa is not well known, but deserves to be for its plumes of creamy white flowers that give off an incredibly strong perfume of lily of the valley. It is an herbaceous perennial, related to Solomon’s seal, but does not succumb to the annual invasion of sawfly caterpillars that decimate the foliage of its close relative. It is also clump forming, unlike its cousin, who is prone to wander.

For June I really ought to choose a rose, and a visit to the rose gardens at Mottisfont Abbey is to be recommended.

Rose ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ has to be my favourite and is one of the very few roses I grow in my garden. The deep pink, old fashioned quartered shape flowers, have that real rose scent. It is one of the David Austin New English Rose varieties, reputed to be disease resistant, but I spray it occasionally to keep it looking really healthy.

July hopefully brings warm evenings encouraging us to linger in the garden and enjoy an abundance of perfumes. We do not have an overabundance of useful evergreen climbers, but the Star Jasmine (Rhyncospermum jasminoides syn.

Trachelospermum) fits the bill perfectly for a sheltered sunny spot. The white flowers give off a powerful scent reputed to resemble the smell of bubble gum.

Many lilies have scents that can be overpowering, but a few Regal Lilies (Lilium regale) are well worth it provided you can keep the dreaded bright red lily beetle at bay. If you own a cat take great

care as lily pollen is very dangerous to cats.

Butterfly Bushes (Buddleja davidii) are the perfect choice for August, not just for their scent but also to enjoy the butterflies they will attract. Plant breeders have now produced a much more dwarf range of buddlejas available in several shades and called the Buzz Series. These are much more suitable for the smaller garden and can even be grown in a large container.

If you would like the smell of primroses in September then you need Clematis rehderiana. Small, pale yellow bells appear on this vigorous climber in late summer.

Give it plenty of space to scramble up a fence or wall, or even up a tree. It can grow to 7 metres when established, but since it is late flowering it can be hard pruned each spring to keep it under control.

Abelia x grandiflora has to be one of my favourite late summer flowering shrubs and it will still be performing in October. Even after the pale pink flowers have dropped the pink calyx behind the flower persists. It is a semi-evergreen arching shrub and the scent reminds me of old-fashioned baby lotion.

The year is drawing to a close, but not before a much used “car park” plant has surprised us all. Elaeagnus x ebbingei produces small white funnel shaped flowers concealed by the evergreen foliage, but its powerful sweet scent stops many a shopper in their tracks. These flowers are followed by pearly fruits that are apparently edible.

For December I can offer winter flowering heathers with a honey scent loved by brave bees, or the shrubby winter flowering honeysuckle (Lonicera ‘Winter Beauty). This can be rather dull during the summer months, but makes an excellent host for a clematis such as ‘Arabella’.

Planting for scent will add considerably to the enjoyment of your garden in any season.

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JUNE GARDEN TIPS

G Make sure that your potatoes don’t run short of moisture at this time. The new tubers should be forming now and will respond well to a thorough watering.

G Plant out those annual herbs (dill, pot marigold, basil, coriander, etc) that often resent being planted too early.

G Plant outdoor tomatoes, ridge cucumbers, courgettes and marrows. These can all be easily grown in large pots or grow bags on the patio.

G Most herbs will benefit from being cut fairly hard now.

The young shoot tips are generally the tastiest parts to use in cooking.

G There is still time to make a sowing of perpetual spinach leaf beet. This is a really useful vegetable that can be harvested right through the winter.

G Spray your apples with Sprayday Greenfly Killer* to stop Codling Moth grubs boring into your fruit. Pheromone traps, now widely available, give good non-pesticide control but need to be installed early enough to get control.

G Remove (by snapping them off) side shoots from cordon (non bushy) tomatoes. Stake and support them. Feed regularly with tomato feed, it improves the flavour!

G Prune plums and cherries. If wall trained, new shoots can be pinched back to encourage more branching.

G Don’t be too eager to thin out apples and pears where crops look heavy. Do this after the natural thinning process (June Drop) which will begin soon.

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

GARDENING

Cleeve Nursery & Box Tree Café Your Independent Garden Centre with great advice and home grown plants!

Cleeve Nursery & Box Tree Café, Cleeve, Bristol BS49 4PW Tel 01934 832134 Email info@cleevenursery.co.uk cleevenursery.co.uk/blog/ www.cleevenursery.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 59

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ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES – PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Ashcott gardens

ASHCOTT village is a pleasant and friendly village situated in the Polden Hills with magnificent views. This group opening for the NGS comprises six interesting and varied gardens ranging in size from the small colourful garden to one acre reclaimed from a field, now nicely mature, bog areas with hardy and tender exotics, several ponds and two waterfalls, four vegetable gardens and fruits.

Cherry Orchard: The owners have gardened here for many years. There is a self-sufficient vegetable plot, several established herbaceous areas, roses displaying different colours, encouraging bees, butterflies and birds.

Holly Tree Cottage: A garden for relaxing in, flanked with borders of perennial flowers and shrubs, it is nicely broken up with small island beds, which always gives the visitor plenty to see.

Little Kimble: This is partly mature, partly landscaped and partly reclaimed from the field and the children. It is a pleasant mixture of lawns, rose beds, mixed borders, water features and a spectacular ever-changing view.

Manor House: The gardens front and back have evolved over 20 years, with mixed shrub and herbaceous planting, small pond and bog area. A pergola divides the ornamental garden from the vegetable and fruit garden.

Millgreen: This is a one-acre site reclaimed from a field.

Mature shrubs and trees provide year-round colour. An abundance of spring flowers is followed by annuals, herbaceous plants and roses.

The Normans: The garden was made from a field 13 years ago and now contains a bank with heathers, ground cover and a waterfall into a pond. There’s a long herbaceous border, a rose walk-through shady area to a vegetable garden and a wild area.

NGS opening details: Sunday 8th June, from 2pm – 5:30pm.

Admission: Combined admission £6.00, children free.

Address and Postcode: Ashcott Village, TA7 9QB.

Festival weekend

The country’s biggest celebration of gardens – this year’s Festival Weekend – is being held on June 7th and 8th, with celebrities like Jane Asher supporting the NGS campaign to get more people outside to enjoy gardening and the benefits it can bring.

Other Gardens Open for the NGS To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, soon to be available from local Garden Centres. Or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk

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Eleanor is a winner

FOR the last three years the pupils of St. Mary’s Primary School, Timsbury have been invited by the village horticultural society to design the cover for the annual flower show schedule and the total number of pupils entering the competition has grown from 13 in the first year to 19 this year.

This year the competition was won by year 6 pupil Eleanor Nobbs who also won last year, demonstrating she should perhaps have a good future in the art and design world. Second and third were Jasmine Hall and Emily Wood respectively.

The top three each received prizes from Graham Nicholls, the chairman, on behalf of Timsbury Horticultural Society. The show is on August 16th.

Details: Rob Jamieson rjamieson20@talktalk.net or 01761 470036

GARDENING

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Wrington Road, Congresbury BS49 5AN Tel: 01934 876337 www.middlecombenursery.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 61

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MENDIP TIMES

Jacob in demand

Stump Grinding and Wood Chipping Services throughout the South West

Jacob with one of his orchids, Guarianthe skinneri, the national flower of Costa Rica.

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PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

WRITHLINGTON School’s top orchid grower, Jacob Coles, has reached the finals of Young Gardener of the Year. The competition is organised each year by the Royal Horticultural Society where 13 young people compete for the prestigious title.

Jacob described his gardening philosophy: “It’s largely based on learning about plants, finding about the conditions they thrive on in the wild. Then this knowledge can be applied to provide just the right environment and grow the perfect plant.”

This has been a busy spring for Jacob. In April he worked with scientists from Kent University and fellow student Zoe Barnes to design and build an innovative display at the London International Orchid Show that won a Silver Gilt Medal.

Jacob is proving to be popular amongst plant enthusiasts, giving talks to gardening and community groups as well as helping to plan this summer’s school expedition to Rwanda.

The winner of UK Young Gardener of the Year will be announced on the 20th of June.

As one of Somerset’s leading suppliers of garden machinery, we stock a wide range of garden tractors, mowers, strimmers, chainsaws, rotavators etc from most leading manufacturers, including the Husqvarna ‘Auto Mower’ Situated between Street & Bridgwater, please come and visit our showroom.

As well as garden machinery sales, we have a service centre and spares department and our Country Store sells almost anything from DIY items to kitchenware, sweets, ice creams, cakes and biscuits.

If you need it – we've probably got it!!'

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GARDENING

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GARDEN SHEDS SHELTERS & STABLES PLAYHOUSES A TEAM of scouts from 2nd Cluttton Group has been working on their community challenge badge by building raised gardening beds for Bishop Sutton School.

During two working sessions, the 12 scouts first cleared the site and then carried out the construction work. The beds will be tended by the school’s own gardening club, and will be used to supply produce to their own kitchens.

Let our dedicated team assist you in your choice whatever your budget . . . Full design, installation and delivery service available – customise your shed to suit your needs

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Tel: 01934 813261 www.westongarden.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 63

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MENDIP TIMES

Kings of Chelsea

Professional Tree Surgeons and Consultants Providing a high quality service to clients throughout the South West.

Please contact us on 01761 241871 info@alltree.co.uk www.alltree.co.uk LOCAL gardening experts Jon Wheatley (left) and Terry Porter won the Diamond Jubilee Best in Show award at the Chelsea Flower Show, with a garden celebrating 50 years of Britain in Bloom in the South West.

The garden was designed by John, from Chew Magna, and grown by Terry, from Hutton. It promoted the fact that through all the crisis of flooding in the area recently, the South West is open for business and tourism.

Gardens open at Camerton

CAMERTON Court Gardens will be holding an open weekend on Saturday July 12th and Sunday July 13th, courtesy of the Biggs family, giving visitors the opportunity to see the 20-acre grounds.

As well as extensive formal gardens, there’s a walled kitchen garden, lake and arboretum. Admission is £5 per person with free parking. The money raised will go to the St. Peter’s Church Tower Fund and the tower itself will be open for the weekend.

PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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B l o o m i ng m a rv e l l o u s

WELLS and District Floral Art Society has presented a new bench to the Bishop’s Palace to mark the society’s 60th anniversary last year.

President, Non Hobson, said: “We love coming to the palace, it’s such an inspiration, and we are very pleased to have a permanent recognition of our support in the form of this bench.”

The countdown is now on for the Winter Festival 2014 at the palace, which was a stunning success last year. The society is once again putting its award-winning skills to work creating a celebration of the season in flowers in the palace and around the stunning gardens.

Local businesses keen to support the Winter Festival are welcome to contact Stephen Stokes, Fundraising Manager on 01749 988111 ext 204 (Tues-Fri) or email stephen.stokes@bishopspalace.org.uk

GARDENING

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MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 65

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MENDIP TIMES

Elegance and style

By Mark Adler

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Tel: 01934 862297 www.wringtonmotors.co.uk

PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

A UNIQUE gathering of cars from historic to modern at Stratton-on-the-Fosse is expected to become an annual event following the success of Downside Abbey’s first fundraising Concours d’Elegance.

The event, in aid of the abbey’s restoration appeal, attracted more than 100 vehicles from across the country and was inspired by an extraordinary connection between Downside School and the motor industry.

Adrian Squire was a pupil at Downside in the 1920s and designed his first car while still at school. His son Anthony Squire and daughter Caroline Lye visited the gathering to enjoy the occasion. Only seven of Adrian’s Squire cars were ever built and only six remain worldwide. Roy Palmer made a long journey with one of them, his 1935 Squire Ranalagh Tourer.

Meanwhile, some 20 members of the Agius clan, many of whom were educated at Downside over the last 200 years, saw descendant, David Arrigo, take delivery of a 1904 Siddeley, which was the first car ever registered in Malta but only recently rediscovered and restored. David took the car home to Malta after the show.

Tim Mercer, who organised the day along with Sarah Kerr, said: “I was thrilled by the quality of the cars, especially the pre-Second World War examples. We are going to do this again.”

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MOTORING

For servicing, repairs and sales of all makes of caravans and motorhomes

Bailey approved body shop and workshop

Family first: members of former Downside pupil E.T. Agius’s family gather around the 1904 Siddeley 6hp light car. David Arrigo first spotted the car in a barn on the island of Gozo and the car has now returned to Malta

Caravan Servicing Annual Habitation Checks Alu-Tech Bailey Approved Repairers Warranty Maintained Damp Repairs Accident Repairs Insurance Repairs Accessory Fitting

Our shop stocks a full range of accessories and equipment

Dom Aidan Bellenger, the Abbot of Downside, with John Coventry, owner of a 1998 Ferrari 550 Maranello. John’s passion for sports cars began when he first saw an E-type Jaguar as a boy

UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES MG Rover Land Rover Specialists

Sales – Service – Parts – Repairs ALL MAKES SERVICING – VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS, AIR CONDITIONING, MECHANICAL & BODY REPAIRS Collection/Loan Car by arrangement

MOT TESTING STATION

COMPETITIVE PRICES ON TYRES, BATTERIES AND EXHAUSTS

ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY SERVICE

QUALITY USED CARS Your peace of mind is our priority

CLEEVE HILL, UBLEY. TEL: 01761 462275 (24hrs) www.ubleymotors.co.uk

Open Monday - Friday 9am–5pm; Saturday 9am–1pm

Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 67

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Stand up, sit down, balance on one leg and grip hard

AS a doctor, people often ask me: “How long have I got?”

I once assumed a man of 53 was referring to the consultation length, and not his life expectancy. The answer “10 minutes... 15 at the most” didn’t go down terribly well.

Pension providers have all sorts of clever tables to estimate how long you’re likely to live. This is so they can

By Dr PHIL decide how generous an annuity to offer you. If you lie HAMMOND and say you live in Toxteth and smoke 60 a day, you could get 20% interest. Anything in the lovely Mendips is likely to get you less than 5%.

Now gorgeous George Osborne has tried to win us over with his pension reforms and the government may soon send you the best guess for your “date with death” in the post, to allow you to plan for your retirement and decide how much of your newly accessible pension pot you can blow on fine living before they try to grab the rest for your long-term care.

When the NHS was founded in 1948, half of us didn’t make it to 65. Now one in three babies born today can expect to live to a hundred. Unless they’re born in the poorer parts of Glasgow, where one in four boys still won’t make it to 65.

The rich have always lived at least a decade longer than the poor, but even more shocking is the gap between how much of our lives we spend being healthy. The rich spend on average 20 years more of their lives in good health then the poor.

The quickest route to improving the health of the nation is to reduce poverty, not to pour money into the NHS. Most NHS funding now goes on chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart, lung, kidney and liver disease and stroke, as well as depression and dementia. And most disability is caused by mental ill-health and musculoskeletal pain, particularly bad backs. You can’t do anything about your genes at the moment, but of the things that you can improve to stay healthy, 80% of them are down to personal behaviour and only 20% down to medical treatment.

Keeping your mind healthy, watching what you put in your mouth and moving as much as possible are more powerful than any drug.

If you want to know how long you’ve got left, type AMP life expectancy calculator into Google. It will tell you all the things you need to do to survive and thrive, and how long you can expect to live if you continue to do what you’re doing. If you don’t like filling in forms, there’s something much simpler you can do.

Researchers tested and followed up 5,000 people aged 53. They found that men who could stand up and sit down fewer than 23 times in a minute (22 times for women) were twice as likely to die by the age of 66 as those who could manage it 37 times or more (35 times or more for women).

The second test involved standing on one leg with your eyes closed: those – both men and women – unable to balance for more than two seconds were three times more likely to die early than those who could do it for at least ten seconds.

A third test, which measured hand grip strength, had similar results.The message is simple. The secret of health is to remain as active and agile as possible for as long as possible.

PS I managed 87 up and downs in a minute (with the help of a whoopee cushion) which puts my life expectancy at 417.

Dr Phil’s comedy tour comes to Frome Memorial Theatre on May 30th BO 01373 462795.

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

When I grow up

ELDEST child is in exam territory. Halfway through her GCSE’s and it is officially the hottest day of the year. This does not stop her spending over half-an-hour in a boiling hot shower, which along with long candlelit baths seems to be her main revision-avoidance tactic.

Middle child is also recovering from her year 7 exams which eldest child is at pains to point out are “irrelevant”. Youngest child has been doing what his school describes as “quizzes”. These quizzes have not distracted him from two very important tasks. The first is collecting football stickers. The second is formulating the country’s fiscal policies.

I am not sure when the latter began to preoccupy him but someone has to think about it.

We are in economic recovery (apparently) even though we are spending three times as much on food, heating and transport as we were five years ago but have not tripled or even increased our wages.

We are also on the brink of an election which could elect candidates, which if you read their small print, plan to reverse sensible health policies (based upon decades of research and evidence) and bring a system already on the brink of collapse crumbling down.

So this is the eight-year-old’s plan: Divide what we have to spend into five equal shares.

Spend three-fifths on the environment because if we do not have a planet to live on that can support life we are doomed.

Spend one-fifth on education.

Spend one-fifth on health.

Spend the final fifth on housing.

A couple of days after formulating this plan he explained that when he was chancellor he was going to visit the NHS and schools and find out about their problems.

“And how will you help them solve their problems. Should the ones with the biggest problems be given more money or less?” I asked him.

“Well, more money of course,” he replied, without hesitation. I am pleased to report that he is continuing to formulate his economic plan and should be ready to deliver it by 2030.

MENDIP MUM

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Bluebird flies into Frome planning expansion

THE summer will see the much anticipated launch of one of the UK’s most successful and leading home care franchises in Frome. Bluebird Care (Mendip) is expected to begin operations in July 2014.

Managing Director Masen Naidoo said: “I am thrilled to be part of a new venture, bringing the highest quality of home care to the residents and families of Frome and its surrounding villages.”

The company is setting up its main offices in Frome and will over the next 12 months expand its operations to the City of Wells, as well as the towns of Street, Glastonbury and Shepton Mallet.

The company’s Care Manager Patrick Godfrey explains what they say sets Bluebird Care (Mendip) apart from its competitors: “We will deliver care of the highest quality that we would expect for our own relatives. Our customers can expect to receive an individually tailored programme that allows them to pursue their independent lifestyle in the home they love regardless of their age or disability.”

Nigel Harris, President of the Frome Business Chamber, who has supported and advised the company in its start-up phase through the Enterprise Mendip programme, said: “I am delighted to welcome Bluebird Care (Mendip) to the town and the business community and wish them success in their endeavours.”

HEALTH & FAMILY

Bluebird Care team (left to right): Barbara Coates (Co-ordinator), Masen Naidoo (Managing Director), Patrick Godfrey (Care Manager)

Ca ll o ur pr of es si o na l te a m o n 0 1 37 3 46 3 83 8 E m a il: m en d ip@ b lue bir dc a re.c o .uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 69

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Your personal trainer

Enjoy divine treatment

Sally Kingston

Stuck in a beauty rut?

SALLY Kingston is offering personal training in the gym at Churchill Sports Centre, in your own home or an outside space.

The training can be on a 1:2:1 basis, with a friend or in a small group, to reduce costs.

She can design an exercise programme to help you achieve your goals, whether this is fat loss, toning up, muscle building or training for an event or sport, e.g. rugby, cricket, golf, tennis, football or hockey.

Give her a call to arrange an initial consultation, which is free and with no obligation.

OFFER – Claim a free 30 minute personal training session when you quote her MT advert – valid until July 31st.

Fitness and Health Coach Personal Training and Nutritional Advice

Mob: 07921 105 716 e-mail: info@sallyfitnessandhealth.co.uk Web: www.sallyfitnessandhealth.co.uk

ANGEL-OH! Holistic Therapies offers a wide range of holistic beauty, massage and maternity therapies at their gorgeous vintage boutique spa – now including Microdermabrasion, the age-defying, smoothing and painless skin rejuvenation therapy!

Special offers and courses of treatments are available.

Angel-Oh! is perfectly located on top of the rolling Mendip hills between Wells and Shepton Mallet. You can relax in the sauna, unwind in the opulently decorated therapy rooms and feel rejuvenated from your excellent treatment. They say they are Mendip’s best-kept secret, so go along and experience heaven for yourself.

THE Cutting Room’s professional stylists know what it takes to make every customer feel sensational, whether you need a new look or want to update your current style, they want to meet you!

Based in Westbury-sub-Mendip and serving Cheddar and Wells they are offering a free consultation to meet one of their stylists for an in-depth discussion on how they can make you look and feel fabulous.

They pride themselves on listening to their clients and promise no-one leaves without feeling “anything less than gorgeous”.

Singles Social Group (Not a dating agency – est. 1979) Age range 40 – 60 approx.

SUMMER LOVING! 25% OFF FOR ALL NEW CLIENTS . . . the Mendip’s best kept secret.

Keestone House, School Hill, Westbury sub Mendip BA5 1HL

01749 870900

www.westburyhairsalon.co.uk

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Weekly Bar Night Events include: walks, dances, parties, meals out, theatre, cinema etc.

For further details call 01749 330455 01278 788077 01458 840958 01934 743139 www.singleprofessionalassociation.co.uk

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Finding someone special

BEAUTY & LIFESTYLE

THIS is the time of year when we think about making a new start, whether it is spring cleaning, changing the way we look, moving house, home improvements or perhaps looking for someone new to spend special times with.

Some people do take time to consider approaching a dating site or agency and see whether this is the way forward. For whatever reason they find themselves on their own, being divorced, never married or widowed.

It is such a lovely time of the year with new beginnings and we can feel more positive and proactive and it is so much nicer to spend it with someone who can bring out the best in you.Caroline Crowther has this advice: Dress for confidence – You don’t have to buy a whole new wardrobe to feel better in your clothes. If you think you look good then you probably do. Wear brighter colours now that the weather is brighter too!

Smile at people – make eye contact, strike up conversations with strangers at the bus stop or in the supermarket.

Recognise your talents and good qualities – No matter how down you feel, try to pat yourself on the back a little and remember the things you are good at. Think of your good qualities. Remember that everyone struggles with confidence.

Some people are good at hiding it, but nearly every person has found it hard at some point.

If you feel you are ready to go ahead and take the next step, please Caroline on 01934 744788 or look at their website www.carolinecrowther.com for further information.

email: Jackie.thepilatesgarage@gmail.com website: www.thepilatesgarage.co.uk

Retreat to the tranquility of the Somerset countryside to improve your fitness levels and enjoy some )me away from the stress of everyday life. Nestled in a quiet, secluded se*ng, The Pilates Garage boasts engineered oak floors with under floor hea)ng, as well as dedicated and targeted ligh)ng to help you get the most out of your session.

G Cer)fied Instructor in Mat and Reformer G Small group sizes G One-on-one sessions G Brand new state-of-the-art studio G Summer holiday programs also available The Pilates Garage caters for all ages and fitness levels and will help to strengthen your core, improve your posture and prevent injuries.

Please contact Jackie Cunningham on 07511 568 985 or email her at Jackie.thepilatesgarage@gmail.com for more informa)on or to book a class

The Pilates Garage, Stone Allerton, near Wedmore MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 71

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Combating rural isolation in the Mendips MENDIP is a very special place to live and work, but that lovely landscape also creates a problem, particularly for young people.

They can feel cut off and isolated and feel they have nothing to do. With no major central town and poor, expensive transport links, there is no Mendip focal point for young people.

Mendip District Council’s corporate plan includes strategies to combat rural isolation and clubs for young people can play a role in this. Using the strong, individual identity developed by our smaller rural towns and villages, Mendip YMCA have developed strong and well attended youth clubs in Frome, Street, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet and Coleford, making support and activities more accessible for young people.

Youth clubs provide an opportunity for our young people to come together and gain an understanding of the idea of community. This sense of community can stay with them for life – many of Mendip YMCA’s volunteers in the clubs volunteer because of their own positive experiences of a youth club when they were younger.

A great example of an active club is Coleford. It is strongly supported by a local management committee and is attended by up to 20 young

people from Coleford and the surrounding area. It is currently undergoing a makeover, organised by the management committee, to make it into a more welcoming space for young people.

One of the youth workers at the club said: “Coleford can be quite an isolated place for our young people and since the club opened last year, we have seen a growing number of young people attend. They see it as a welcoming place to be with their mates, and play ball, pool and table-tennis.

“It also gives them a chance to build relationships across the community and try out different things – we have done jewellery making, team games, and cooking for example. We are starting to see improvements in the way young people relate to us and improvements in their behaviour and understanding of rules and boundaries. We are starting to see them grow as individuals.”

For many young people, youth clubs can be a haven and a transformative experience that makes them want to help others.

One young Mendip YMCA volunteer said: “When I was very young I was quite troubled and got into lots of bad stuff. Youth club was always somewhere I could go where people would understand and really listen to me. The youth workers and the volunteers at my club gave me so much support and really helped me. I am really glad I can give something back now.”

Mendip youth clubs are playing a vital part in combating rural isolation for our young people and in helping them develop a sense of community and belonging. June 1st – 7th is National Volunteer Week. Why not use this event to join a growing band of volunteers making a real difference at Mendip YMCA Youth Clubs, or in areas supporting vulnerable young people?

Glenda Collier

Details: 01749 679553 or email gcollier@mendipymca.org.uk

Hub’s first birthday

THE Hub, in Paulton, has celebrated its first birthday, and is fast becoming the centre of the community, with volunteers helping to keep the library open all hours, story time with Michelle Catarnach, and with pre-school children during term time.

Activities and sessions now include Age UK, Care and Repair, Mind, Listening Fair, Sustainable Energy, Baby Bounce and Rhyme and Craft activities. The café at The Hub, The Hub Grub has also been part of the success story.

A new venture is being set up to help adults, especially older people, gain more confidence in using computers.

Details: David Kayston 01225 328831.

PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Wookey Hole’s new forum

A NEW Wookey Hole Residents Forum has been formed, as a focus for residents’ opinions on issues affecting the village and the nearby hamlets of Milton, Glencot, Haybridge and Elm Close.

At the forum’s inaugural meeting a committee of eight was elected and ten working parties formed by residents, with ideas ranging from clearing the local footpaths, to helping to draw up a Neighbourhood Plan, to keeping an eye on a proposed new housing development in the village.

Chairman, the Rev. Hugh Talbott, said: “To be a success, as many people in the village as possible need to get involved.”

There is no subscription fee and all residents of Wookey Hole over the age of 18 will automatically be members.

Details: Secretary, Nicky Venning 01749 677394 nicfa@dircon.co.uk

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Bringing generations together with song

A CHARITY based in Westfield, near Midsomer Norton, called Golden Oldies has won a substantial grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund

By SIMON for a new project to SELBY bring young and old together through singing.

World War One – our heritage in songs and memories is a project run by the Goldies Charity that brings music and singing to older people across the south west. It’s aimed at primary schools which are being encouraged to put on commemorative days, open their doors to their local elderly people and to sing along to the tunes that bought communities together during the First World War at home and in the trenches. The project illustrates that

singing brought the nation together 100 years ago and can still be used for that purpose today.

Sir Cliff Richard is the patron of the charity run by Grenville Jones. Grenville said: “We have commissioned an easy to sing medley of First World War songs by Alwyn Humphreys for schools to sing.

Singing together brought communities together 100 years ago at home and in the trenches. The school projects do not have to be music led.

“It is important to record, for future generations, the photos, songs, medals and memories that link us with a past that must not be forgotten.”

Nerys Watts, Head of HLF in the South West, said: “The impact of the First World War was far reaching, touching and shaping every corner of the UK and beyond. The Heritage Lottery Fund has already invested over £47million in

COMMUNITY projects – large and small – that are marking this global centenary.

“Our support means that local people like those involved in ‘World War One – Our Heritage in Songs and Memories’ will be able to explore the songs, memories, artefacts that make up the continuing legacy of the conflict and help young people in particular to broaden their understanding of how it has changed the world they live in today.”

While this project is both interesting and timely it is also important to mention the other ongoing social opportunities the charity Golden Oldies offers across our area. New, informal “clubs” with regular meetings for a chat and a singsong are springing up almost everywhere. Only the other day, over lunch, I was hearing about rapidly expanding groups in Midsomer Norton and Radstock and numerous other locations around Mendip.

To find out more visit: www.golden-oldies.org.uk

Love changes everything

THIS is a tale about love: about people and their community.

Villagers in Nunney, near Frome, are pretty dynamic at the best of times – don’t forget the Nunney Street Fair in August – but they’re also a close-knit bunch. Just look what happened when they decided to combine a tribute to two of their stalwarts with a wedding blessing!

Owen Hillier and Fred Lestrange – and their good wives Peggy and Nora – have been part of Nunney life for many years, actively involved with just about every organisation from the Nunney Community Association to the local churches and Nunney Flower Show Association.

The NCA transformed the village’s disused quarry into a community open space which regularly hosts events. In the past, many trees have been planted to commemorate villagers who

Owen Hillier (seated left) and Fred Lestrange with (back l:r): The Rev Anthony Dickson, the vicar of Nunney, Ken Lloyd and Mrs Angela Yeoman, who proposed the idea of the tree planting celebration

Flag day! Gail and Catharine Taylor

have died but, this time they wanted Owen and Fred to enjoy the event!

Ken Lloyd, chairman of Nunney parish council and president of the NCA, told villagers at the ceremony: “This is a thriving village but these things do not just happen without the efforts of people like Owen and Fred. As founder members of the NCA, they have created a legacy for the village and the next generation are carrying the work on.”

Amongst those who took part in the celebrations were Catharine Taylor and her husband Gail. Catharine was chairman of Nunney Parish Council for a number of years before going to America where she met – and six months ago married – Gail, a cowboy in New Mexico. Catharine brought Gail from their home in Buckhorn, near Silver City, to Nunney, to join in the celebrations and be guests of honour at a village party after a church blessing of their marriage.

I am told it was a swell party!

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 73

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CLARKS VILLAGE

Join a cycle ride to beat MS

CLARK’S Designer Village in Street is putting all its efforts into supporting a unique cycling event in June that is aiming to raise thousands of pounds for research into Multiple Sclerosis.

Organisers of Somerset Cycle 60 – taking place on Sunday, June 8th – are looking for as many people as possible to join in the fun events. The day ranges from a 60-mile cycle ride taking in the Somerset Levels and the Join us in Street: Peter Mendip Hills to simply pedalling on a Graham with Totty Milne in the garden of her home static cycling machine for just 60 seconds – the aim is to raise funds for in Wells – Totty will be bringing along her special the Mendip branch of the MS Society. exercise machine Totty Milne, who lives in Wells, went to her doctor in 1995 when she first developed symptoms of MS; now using a wheelchair, Totty describes MS as her “condition” rather than a “disease” and will be at the shopping outlet to demonstrate a remarkable cycling machine designed for people with disabilities which affect muscles in their legs.

The Somerset Cycle 60 campaign is being led by Peter Graham, landlord of The George Inn at Croscombe and chairman of the Mendip branch of the MS society, who holds regular events for MS, including a George and the Dragon Festival in April. Two rides will begin and end at Clark’s Designer Village and take riders past the George Inn for a well-earned break.

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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CAVING

Secrets of Warren Farm swallet

WARREN Farm at Charterhouse lies high on a plain between the upper end of Cheddar Gorge and Velvet Bottom. It is farmed by the Small family, With PHILIP who over the years HENDY have found many flint implements in their fields. There is evidence of early occupation of the area from the Neolithic right through to the Romano-British period.

At the end of a short dry valley lies a rocky depression, which at first glance looks like one of the many small quarries found all over Mendip, where stone was extracted for building field walls. It is in fact a swallet and cavers were first drawn to dig there in 1972.

Large boulders and loam gave way to loosely-packed cobbles at 15m; the shaft was dug to around a depth of 20m, though it clearly continues downwards. A small cavity, three metres long and a metre high at the end, was seen as a narrow rift extension, roofed with stalled boulders.

The articulated skeleton of a male was found here; he had clearly been deliberately buried intact. With him were rusty Roman-style boot nails, which allowed the body to be dated to the first century AD. More bones from same area were recovered, but many were buried and lost when the roof was stabilised. This was where the later dig entered the main cave.

Many bones were found during the excavation, mainly of domesticated species such as cattle, sheep and pig. Little attention was paid to them, as in times past such depressions were convenient places to dispose of dead stock, and they were often pitfall traps for unwary wild animals.

However, some of the bones were recognised as human, and flint tools and pottery were also discovered, so the diggers began to pay more attention to sorting the excavated spoil.

Ali Moody in the cave

Other bones, from horse, dog, red and roe deer, cat, hare and rabbit were identified, and were dated from ancient to recent. Many of the older bones had been butchered, suggesting domestication.

Articulated red deer bones suggest the animal fell down the shaft. Bones of aurochs, a large wild species of cattle, were also found. Some were articulated, showing that this animal had also fallen down the shaft, landing on its back.

Bones of water vole suggested that the swallet was active up to 3,500 years ago.

The human bones were disarticulated and indiscriminately mixed, which means that the remains were placed in the shaft after decomposition. They were at various ages at death. Cut marks imply defleshing and dismemberment. This was a common way of disposing of the dead at that time and does not imply cannibalism.

For some time the dig was abandoned and then interest was rekindled in 1983 by Pete and Alison Moody, both veteran cave diggers who have had a great deal of success over the years. This time, interest was centred on the small side passage found earlier, high up in the shaft.

Digging commenced, and at the end of the alcove, a shaft was excavated along and down. A tight squeeze down by a curtain led to a bedrock floor where the passage narrowed. This was extended down, and appeared to be approaching the old shaft.

Beyond a small bedding plane an extremely tight squeeze, the Corkscrew, was passed and open passage led to Bone Chamber, a wide low bedding chamber.

After Bristol University recorded the bones, and removed some, so that a taped path could be run to the lowest part of the chamber, digging continued.

Under a jammed rock, a hole was uncovered, and the lower cave was entered below an 8m pitch, Rocky Horror. There was a random scatter of bones, mixed by slumping of the muddy deposit over the years. The lower cave consists of wide low bedding chambers, on two levels.

A dog skeleton was found here, but the area floods, and there is little prospect of finding a continuation. However, from the upper end of Bone Chamber a high rift was discovered – Mitchell’s Chamber.

There is evidence of nearby human occupation during Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, leading up to Iron Age and

Chris Milne in the cave

Romano-British. At the time the local environment was probably damp and shady, with patches of woodland left after forest clearance and herding of animals.

Dating of the human remains was aided by the discovery of an almost complete beaker. These well-made pots date mainly from the Bronze Age between 4,450 and 3,650 BP. They are often found with burials, and may have been involved in death rituals. The flints were of types used during the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods and included a fine dagger 16cm long.

Other artefacts included an antler spatula, slate ‘sponge finger’ stones (probably used for polishing pottery) and hammer stones. The aurochs’ bones were of particular interest. These large wild cattle were common in Europe from around 100,000 years ago. Cuts found on a horn core were made with a metal implement, so this probably dates from the Iron Age (c. 2,550BP). This is 1,100 years later than the previous earliest record, from the Bronze Age. Warren Farm Swallet and the nearby habitation site are of great archaeological importance, and the Small family are justifiably proud of this site on their farm.

Access is extremely restricted, but only the thinnest are able to view the cave, because of the committing nature of the Corkscrew – it has already caused a few ribs to crack.

Because of this, the cave and its deposits are in pristine condition – long may it last.

Phil has been caving for more than 47 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and is a caving instructor in Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 75

Photography by Clive Westlake

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MENDIP TIMES

EVENTS

Ancient and modern on Cathedral Green

AROUND 150 cars gathered on Wells Cathedral Green at the end of the 20th Mendip Vintage and Classic Tour after an 85-mile tour of Somerset.

Ranging in date from 1910 to 2002, the vehicles attracted hundreds of admirers. The overall winner was a 1970 Mercedes 280 SLE Pagola, driven by Helen Price and Kathy Headdon, from Wrington. Their husbands – Stephen Price and Andy Headdon – took part in an Alvis 1260 Beetleback.

Dee Ryall and John Adlam, from Croscombe, with their 1969 Triumph Vitesse. Dee was named best dressed lady driver

Elegance on tour

Perfect setting: the Rolls arrives at Wells Cathedral Nick and Karen Bacon, of Blagdon, arrive on the green in their 1936 Daimler.

The car has taken them 32 years to restore and is one of only four in the world!

THIS 1929 Rolls Royce Phantom II has been on a tour of car events in the west country. Owned by Alastair Kerr, of Dunkeld in Perthshire, it was driven by his son Ralph. The car also took part in the Downside Abbey Concours D’Elegance (see page XX)

Vicars are close: Stephen Price and Andy Headdon dress up for the occasion

Ralph Kerr gives the car a quick polish and the cathedral is reflected in one of the headlights

Roderick Thomas, from Weston-superMare, poses with his 1972 Triumph Stag.

Roderick was named best dressed male driver PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Kathy Headdon and Helen Price with the trophy for the best overall car, with sponsor Debbie Fortune and Theo ButtPhilip, the mayor of Wells

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Sustained growth

THERE’S been an increase in property coming on to the South West market, after four months of decline, with 27% of chartered surveyors reporting a rise rather than fall in new instructions, according to the latest survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

There was also a healthy increase in agreed sales reported by chartered surveyors in the South West, although the latest figures across the UK reveal a constrained property market, which continues to be marred by weak supply and high demand.

While respondents across nine UK regions reported declines in new property for sale coming on to the market, the average number of homes sold per surveyor across the country hit 23 – the highest since February 2008.

RICS says: “Significantly, there does now appear not just a broadening out in the recovery away from the capital, but also increasingly upbeat responses on the likely price trend going forward.”

In the South West, 53% more chartered surveyors predict prices will rise over the next three months, rather than fall.

By comparison in London, 49% more respondents conveyed similar expectations (down from 61% in March).

In the rental sector, RICS says there continues to be modest growth in tenant demand although greater mortgage availability and the ‘Help to Buy’ Scheme has seen the appetite to rent lose some momentum in recent quarters.

PROPERTY WONDERSTONE, SHIPLATE, BLEADON

AUCTION 7PM ON TUESDAY 29TH JULY 2014 MENDIP SPRING GOLF CLUB, HONEY HALL LANE, CONGRESBURY Detached period cottage needing total renovation enjoying an elevated position with far reaching views with side yard, parking and gardens. The accommodation comprises 2 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen and bathroom. EPC E. REF 24699 PRICE GUIDE £200,000

CHAPEL ALLERTON, SOMERSET

Large detached modern farmhouse (3000 sq ft) with opportunity for farm shop/business located on the outskirts of the village in rural lane position. Set in 6 acres with additional land of up to 17 acres available. Over 15000 sq ft of modern farm buildings, yard.

Planning for 5 log cabins, and logging business available if required. Ref: 24653. EPC TBC PRICE GUIDE £750,000

BLEADON VILLAGE

Charming period house located in the centre of the village, close to all amenities. Four double bedrooms, two bathrooms and cloakroom, utility and family kitchen. Drawing room, family room, study.

Integral garage, walled gardens front and rear, plenty of period features and well modernised interior! EPC: E Ref: 24698 PRICE GUIDE £485,000

Landlords and Investors – contact us now quoting Bishop01 to receive a

50% reduction on our Gold and Silver set-up charges Bishop & Co – Helping you make all the right moves

BIDDISHAM, SOMERSET

Detached period cottage with self contained annexe in rural ‘no through lane’ location.

Large level gardens and paddock – in all 1.31 acres.

Charming 4/5 bedroom accommodation with three reception rooms, inglenook fireplace, beams etc., Superb first floor bedroom extension with spacious master bedroom and en suite bathroom. Self contained ground floor annexe comprising 4 rooms. Double garage and parking.

EPC.E Ref: 24574 PRICE GUIDE £479,500

Wrington Tel: 01934 864300

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 77

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Café culture for charity

Quackers in Coleford

Swallow general manager Bev Craney (far right) with some of the team who will be running the café in Radstock. To find out more about the charity’s work, visit: www.swallowcharity.org

A USER-led charity for people with learning difficulties has opened its first commercial venture – a community café in Radstock.

Swallow has taken over the former Church Tea Rooms next to St. Nicholas Church on a six-month trial. The project is part of the Midsomer Norton-based charity’s Work Skills Enterprise Scheme which aims to equip people with the skills and confidence necessary for the world of work.

G The café is currently open on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11am-3pm.

Star turns

Some of the duck “jockeys” with their hopefuls in the race

A GOOD crowd turned out to enjoy the annual charity duck race in Coleford, organised by the village’s King’s Head pub. The event raised money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Spectators watch for the early leaders

Paul Dumas entertains

A CABARET and dinner dance organised by Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel Club has given a big financial boost to the Somerset charity STAR, which works with disadvantaged young people in the county.

The black tie event at Timsbury’s Conygre Hall featured music by the Honkytonks band and a performance by ventriloquist Paul Dumas.

PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

I don’t think they’re ours: resident ducks find themselves caught up in the race

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Cheddar fashion show

CHARITIES

Stepping up to the challenge

Karen and Becky offer tea and cakes to Sarah Clothier during the fundraising sale at Midsomer Norton Town Hall

A FASHION show organised by Katie Boo in Cheddar raised £450 for Cheddar rugby and football clubs and local charities.

In all 11 models took part with Beverley Hemmings in charge of hair and Bridgette Esmonde make-up.

Volunteers wanted

DOROTHY House Hospice, at Winsley, near Bath, is holding a volunteer open day on Tuesday, June 3rd for anyone who might be interested in supporting them. It will be held from 10am4pm.

Details: Call 01225 721490 or go to: www.dorothyhouse.co.uk

School’s African dream

WRITHLINGTON School charity, the Burundi Education Foundation, has been given a grant of £120,000 by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund.

B&NES youth parliament representative and trustee of the charity, Ed Joseph, met Bath MP Don Foster, who has a long-standing interest in education development in Africa, to seek advice and guidance on the project.

The charity was created with the aim of building a primary school in Rusaga, which is the poorest village of one of the poorest countries in the world, Burundi.

The new primary school would follow an English curriculum guided by Writhlington School. When completed this October the school will act as a model for other schools creating an education model which can be used in other areas of Burundi.

Details: BurundiEducationFoundation.org or email: BurundiEducationFoundation@Outlook.com

CHARITY fundraisers Becky Brooks and Karen Burge are making final efforts to reach their £5,600 target to allow them to tackle the Great Wall of China trek in aid of Bath’s Royal United Hospital.

The pair have held a series of events including a busy cake sale in Midsomer Norton Town Hall as the June deadline approaches for them to each raise £2,800.

Becky is editor of the Midsomer Norton, Radstock and District Journal and Karen is a homeopath.

They hope to join a team of trekkers raising funds for the RUH’s new Cancer Centre. Becky said: “By the time we leave in early September, Karen and I need to have raised £3,100 each – in fact, it would be wonderful if we could raise even more.”

For more information about their challenge or to donate, visit: www.doitforcharity.com/KarensTrek and www.justgiving.com/BeckysChinaTrek

Supporting Becci

MORE than £6,600 was presented to Peasedown cancer victim Becci McCafferty at a special presentation evening at the Waggon and Horses in the village. The event was the accumulation of several months of fundraising and charity events to raise enough for her and her family to go on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Disneyworld Florida.

Karen Walker, a close family friend and vice chairman of the parish council, has led the fundraising efforts. Earlier this year she set up the Fund for Peasedown, a new initiative to support Becci and other residents diagnosed with terminal illnesses.

She said: “Our local community has really come together to support Becci and her family. Thanks to the generosity and support of so many people we were able to present this money, with more set to come in over the coming weeks.

“I can’t thank all those that have raised funds, hosted quiz nights, taken part in charity walks and donated money enough.”

Ever since Becci was told the devastating news at the end of last year, local people have showed overwhelming support for the 30-year-old mum and her family and a whole host of fundraising events have been held across the area.

Despite being diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer Becci remains positive. No stranger to a challenge, she is well known around the community for campaigning against unwanted housing developments, helping to organise Peasedown’s Party in the Park, and has spent many mornings leading community clean-up events.

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MENDIP TIMES

Charity abseil

FUNDRAISERS will have the chance to abseil down one of Mendip’s most iconic structures in September as part of the SOS Africa charity’s year of events.

The pyramid stage on the site of the Glastonbury Festival will be transformed as teams of six from across the country tackle the challenge to raise funds for their own good causes and for the Shepton Mallet-based charity.

Previous years have seen abseils down the Kilver Court viaduct in Shepton Mallet and Cranmore Tower.

This year’s event takes place on Saturday, September 20th and Sunday, September 21st.

For details, visit: www.sosafrica.com

Friends for life

RADSTOCK-based print and mail company, CFH Docmail Ltd, have become a Corporate Partner of Bath Royal United Hospital’s Forever Friends Appeal, which is raising funds to help build a pioneering new cancer centre at the hospital.

The company has raised £14,000 for the appeal over the past three years – through their Bath Half Marathon sponsorship, and supporting other fundraising activities, such as Ted’s Big Day Out each October.

Caroline Gilleece, Matron of RUH Cancer Services, is pictured presenting The Forever Friends Appeal Corporate Partnership plaque to Dave Broadway, Managing Director of CFH Docmail.

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Chew Valley shanties

THE Chew Valley branch of the RNLI is holding a mid-summer music evening at Chew Valley Sailing Club on Friday June 20th, 6pm-10pm, with sea shanties from the Barnacle Buoys.

Tickets are £10 (children under 12 free) to include supper of pates and cheese, with lots of delicious puddings. The branch also holds its house to house collection in June.

Charity walk

THE second Bath Men’s Walk, in aid of Dorothy House Hospice, attracted 436 entrants and is expected to have raised £40,000.

The eight-mile event, which starts at Winsley and finishes at the Rec in Bath, is organised by the hospice and Bath Rugby Foundation. It was officially started by ITV weatherman, Bob Crampton.

Hospice on the move

WESTON Hospicecare is moving from Uphill to Moose International’s former headquarters in Winscombe. It describes it as an “idyllic location” in which patients and their families can receive vital end of life care and hopes to complete the move by 2019.

Chief executive, Gill Auden, said: “We are thrilled to have secured this fantastic site, surrounded by woodland, with good transport links and acres of space for us to create a state of the art Hospice for our patients.

“This move will safeguard the future of Weston Hospicecare and excellent end of life care in our corner of North Somerset and Somerset.

“As patient numbers have grown we’re increasingly finding that our current beautiful site in Uphill will not stand the test of time. We have no more room to add outdoor or indoor space to further enhance our services for patients. We know we simply cannot continue to serve increasing numbers of people at this site – and we have never turned anyone away and we are determined that we never will.

“This will be the third home the hospice has had in our 25 years and this new site offers so much more space, both for much improved patient care facilities and also simply for incredible outdoor space and views which play such an important part in the health and well-being of our patients.”

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Marathon man

DESIGN engineer, Lee Wallington, from Wookey Hole, is the only UKbased runner to be accepted for the world’s toughest race, the 135-mile Badwater Ultra-marathon, across the deserts and mountains around California.

Twice a week he’s up at 3am to run the 19 miles to work in Bristol, which allows him to regularly do 80 – 100 miles a week, which he says is essential for running ultra-marathons.

The disclaimer he signed for the race, which takes place in July, is graphic: “I understand the extreme conditions in this race, including but not limited to, temperatures in excess of 130F, wind, dust, high altitudes, and radiant surface temperatures in excess of 180F, which make the risk of dehydration, altitude sickness, significant skin damage, blistering, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, traffic accidents, renal shutdown, brain damage, and death all possible.”

He says he got the running bug in 2003 when he decided he was spending far too much time in the pub and ran the Los Angeles marathon. The following year he ran the Disney Marathon in Florida and the Las Vegas marathon in the same week. Then came the Marathon Des Sables, seven marathons in seven days across the Sahara.

He’s been running marathons and ultra-marathons ever since, raising money for the Make A Wish Foundation and is keen to recruit more sponsors. After the Badwater 135 he’s running 184 miles from the source of the Thames to London in August followed by “a gentle 120 miles” in Kerry, Ireland, in September.

CHARITIES

Marathon mice

ROGER and Lee-Anne Sperring, from East Harptree, completed the London Marathon, dressed as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and have raised £6,000 for SENSE, the charity that helps people who are both deaf and blind.

They said: “The support from the crowds along the route was great, with people calling out to us all the way. It felt like the crowd was carrying us at times. We would both like to thank everyone for the support we have had.”

Painting the town

Details: www.badwater135.wordpress.com

Three peaks for colleague

A TEAM from Torr Works quarry near Frome has completed the daunting Three Peaks Challenge in memory of a colleague.

Shaun Eaton, Matt Wilkins, Vince Pitt and Pete Allen dedicated their attempt to Alec (Bucky) Symes, who served for more than 40 years at Torr Works. Bucky loved walking and had completed two of the three peaks, Scafell Pike and Snowdon.

The group decided to raise money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and to raise awareness of quarry owner Aggregate Industry’s Hearts and Minds – The Healthy You campaign.

To date the team has raised a magnificent sum of approximately £2,900 for the air ambulance. To make a donation, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/teams/Torrfour

SOME 1,500 walkers and runners swarmed onto Uphill beach to take part in the Weston Colour Run, raising £40,000 for Weston Hospicecare and securing the future of the event.

Claire Dibben, event fundraiser said: “The atmosphere was incredible. The mass paint throw at the start was spectacular and those few seconds will stay with me for a long time.”

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MENDIP TIMES

THIS MONTH’S SPECIAL OFFER

LIFT & RISE RECLINERS We have over 25 Models in stock – All reduced by 40% – All available for immediate delivery

ALL REDUCED BY 40%

Malvern Single Motor Recliner £1293 Now £775 (stock only) £657.50 with VAT exemption Malvern Dual Motor Recliner £1434 – Now £860 (stock only) £716.66 with VAT exemption Windsor Single Motor £1370 – Now £822 (stock only) £685.00 with VAT exemption

Keswick Single Motor Recliner £1242 – Now £745 (stock only) £620.83 with VAT exemption

Love your home for less

WHETHER you are a new home owner or it’s a case of “out with the old in with the new” choosing the right furniture requires time, thought and planning. Fortunately help is at hand.

Orchards in Somerset Square, Nailsea, is an independent family-run furniture store which not only has a great range of furniture to choose from but also experienced and trained staff who can help you with your selection.

The business, which is owned by Robin Orchard and has been in Nailsea for 28 years, sells mid to high-end furniture for the dining room, living room and bedroom.

Robin said: “A lot of our furniture is manufactured in the UK and Europe, traditionally made and it means we can offer good quality products at very competitive prices.

“The strength of our business has been built upon the high level of service and support we give to our customers. Every week we have new customers in but we also get excellent support from established customers who return year after year.”

The business was started in Portishead in 1965 by Robin’s father John and operated out of Portishead High Street selling all kinds of furnishings including carpets and curtains, with warehousing at one time in Clevedon.

Then in 1985 the store was opened in Nailsea and later transferred its warehousing nearby. Now Orchards have seven staff in total and specialise in beds, upholstery, cabinet furniture and also a very popular giftware line.

Furniture is delivered by their professionally trained team and they offer free local delivery and free installation for customers.

They are also licensed to dispose of old furniture if the customer wishes.

Another advantage is Orchards keep high stock levels in their warehouse and on many items are able to deliver practically straight away, unlike other stores where everything is sold to order only and can take months to order in. Robin also revealed they will be changing the shop around later in the year and giving it an upgrade.

So if you are looking for well designed, stylish, quality furniture at extremely competitive prices then visit Orchards.

Lynton Single Motor £1293 – Now £775 (stock only) £645.83 with VAT exemption

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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Shutters for any home

SINCE joining the Shuttercraft fanchisee model, Simon Moody has been working hard to establish and grow his business – Shuttercraft Somerset. He said: “It has been an extraordinary experience, very testing but also extremely rewarding.

“The satisfaction for me is in the reaction of customers when they see their shutters installed. Priceless.”

After many years in education it was never going to be an easy transition moving into the self-employed arena, but Simon is convinced that he made the right decision.

He said: “I cover Bath and Somerset but have surveyed for clients in Wiltshire and Dorset as well. It is a large area, but the landscape is so beautiful and the properties I have visited present really interesting challenges.”

Simon exclusively supplies S:CRAFT plantation shutters and pure wood blinds by Shuttercraft, a highly respected company with over 10 years experience. Simon said: “It was the quality of the products that really impressed me. I just love shutters and can’t wait to bring that love and enthusiasm to others. They make any room look fantastic and I see them as an investment as well as a design choice.”

Shuttercraft Somerset is your local business for interior door and window plantation shutters and pure wood blinds.

Whether your property is an urban apartment, a rural barn conversion, a new-build or anything in between, Simon has a product for you.

He said: “When people are looking for privacy, light, sound

HOMES & INTERIORS

and temperature control or simply fabulous looking shutters, I am always available to provide a free survey and advice.”

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 83

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MENDIP TIMES

A passion for paint

MIKE Tucker has one overriding ambition when people visit City Decorating Supplies in Wells – they should be offered the very best solution for their needs.

That’s why he often suggests to people that they take photos on their mobile phones of the particular project they are undertaking so he can assess the situation himself.

With 28 years’ experience in the paint industry – and a background in joinery and carpentry – Mike says: “My job is to make it as easy as possible for customers to get the right, longlasting results.”

The range of paints, brushes and rollers – along with Italian vinyl and German silk wallpapers – is astonishing. Mike also

Jack welcomes customers and passers-by who often stop just to chat Tel: 01749 677299

citydecoratingsupplies@gmail.com

Our passion is to recommend only the most appropriate products for all your decorating needs

Farrow & Ball main stockist Mylands of London main stockist G Paint mixed on the premises – any size, any finish G Specialist decorating materials G Expert advice on products for restoration and conservation work

Passion for paint: Mike believes in offering only the best advice

stocks Osmo wood oils as well as sundries for people undertaking more specialist work involving products such as distempers and limewash.

Trade customers are made more than welcome; Mike’s experience in the industry means he can source all their requirements exactly when they are needed – including next day delivery if necessary. City Decorating Supplies has the added bonus of being just a few yards from the Union Street car park, next door to Beah Restaurant.

Mike said: “We are the first specialist supplier to be based in any of the Mendip towns and I think we are bringing some urban chic and a boutique range to the area.

“Customers are coming from all over the west country because we take the time to discuss exactly what they want to achieve.”

Mike’s wife Jan now works at the shop as well after a 30-year career in the banking industry in Somerset. Jan said: “The thing I notice most about Wells is how friendly everyone is towards each other and how happy people are to stop and chat. I think we are already becoming part of the Wells community which is very supportive.”

City Decorating Supplies also boasts something of a USP in the shape of Jack, their terrier dog – one of three dogs they own. Jack – especially on warm days – likes nothing better than sitting in the window or snoozing on his blanket outside the entrance. Jan added: “Hardly anyone goes by without stopping to say hello.”

Open: Monday – Friday: 9am6pm, Saturday: 9am-3.30pm

No.1 The Old Chapel, Union Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2PU

Exterior Paint by Farrow & Ball

QUALITY PAINT & WALLPAPER

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Jan is responsible for the shop’s quirky and topical window displays

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HOMES & INTERIORS

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MENDIP TIMES

Family business MARK Sutton says he decided to set up a stairlift business after his father was harassed by a pushy and aggressive stairlift company. Suttons Stairlifts opened in September last year and is a family-run business which Mark set up with the help of his sons.

Dedicated to providing a fair and ethical service, the business

offers a range of new or refurbished stairlifts for purchase or rental in the Somerset and Mendip area.

Mark said: “Our business offers a fair, ethical, reasonably priced and friendly service for people with mobility issues who wish to remain independent in their own home.

As of September 1st a demonstration unit was set up in the Haskins Retail Centre in Shepton Mallet.

“Our engineers have been fully trained by Handicare on technical issues that can arise as well as having been taught to work cleanly and considerately to our client’s needs.”

Tony Hucker TV Service – Sales – Rental www.naturesflame.co.uk

• • • • • •

Satellite Installations Aerial Systems TV wall mounting Custom Installations Networking Signal Solutions

01275 332888 www.tonyhuckertv.co.uk Unit 4, Fairseat Workshops, Chew Stoke BS40 8XF Open: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm and Sat 9am-12 noon

WOODBURNER SALES AND FITTING

With 14 manufacturers, our own directly employed teams of HETAS installers and being builders too, we truly can offer the One point of call solution for stoves and woodburners.

With our online sales portal at Wantastove we offer the best Prices in the UK for stoves right on your doorstep.

Oil, Gas and Solid Fuel Heating Specialists including Thermal Stores

Braysdown Works Braysdown, Peasedown St John Bath BA2 8LL

www.wantastove.co.uk

Give us a call on 01761

439408

Opening Hours 8am – 5.30 pm Monday to Friday • Evenings by appointment

info@naturesflame.co.uk

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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JACKSONS

Jacksons Fencing – news, topical treats and more . . .

Glorious June is here!

THE summer should be really under way now, with all of us sitting back in our gardens, basking in the better weather, after getting our spring projects finished off nice and early. Maybe you managed to get your new deck down, or the ‘longed-for’ pergola up?

And how about the replacement fence that went in after the winter storms, how’s that doing? I’m going to scare you in a minute, if you haven’t heard these stories yet…

“Garden fence raiders: Thieves are stealing wooden fence panels from gardens to order as prices have soared since the stormy winter, industry experts have warned.” Daily Mail 14th May. They cite several instances like this: “Last month Marion and Roy Webster had seven fence panels taken from their ‘pride and joy’ garden while they were asleep at home in Bolton. The panels had been installed four weeks earlier.”

The Daily Mail isn’t the only national newspaper covering the theft of fence panels, there are many more stories in The Times and others. This is following on from the reporting of the national fence panel shortage story, I covered last month, telling you there was no such shortage at Jacksons.

Well here’s what you can do if you have some tempting new panels and you want to make sure they don’t get stolen.

Do you have timber posts? Jacksons only supply wooden Jakcure treated

Check your local page to see if Jacksons are at a show in your area and to see any ticket draws we might be running . . .

posts that are guaranteed for 25 years – here is the solution if you have our wooden posts, or even some timber ones from another supplier – screw through the post and into the rails of the fence panel with a good rust resistant screw, from the inside of the fence run. This will almost certainly stop any thief from stealing the fence panels.

Not only does it stop the panel being removed, but it will also stop the annoying rattle that sometimes occurs when panels move in the post slot in strong wind. This is a nice neat and tidy solution, that only takes minutes, but can save a lot of grief.

What if you have concrete posts?

These are obviously a bit more problematic as it's not easy to secure the

S

Screwing a torx head rust resistant screw through the fence post into the rail

panels, unless the posts have holes that allow bolts or screws to go through to hold the panels in place.

Other options will not look overly attractive and are a little ‘bodged’, but it’s better than someone being able to lift your panels out and steal them! The most popular option is to screw a metal bracket or mending plate into the panel across the post and then into the next panel.

Another option is to screw into the panel as close to the posts as possible, so that the screws are against the post. This will make it difficult to lift the panels.

As before, make sure all fixings are rust resistant and secure from the inner side of the fence. louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

WIN

A PAIR OF ISSINGHURST PLANTERS

Enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win a pair of our lovely new Sissinghurst square planters. Simply log on to your local page, address below and follow the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 30.6.14. To enter go to: www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/bathlocal MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 87

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RH

HOMES & INTERIORS

Windows THE CHEW VALLEY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED WINDOW COMPANY WITH A REPUTATION BUILT ON QUALITY AND SERVICE FOR CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS AND DOORS IN HARDWOOD OR UPVC

HARDWOOD JOINERY SPECIALISTS www.rhwindowsltd.co.uk

Telephone: 01761 452171 Fax: 01761 453342

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 89

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MENDIP TIMES

A n o l d- fa s h i o n ed te s t o r a s te p t o o fa r ?

Ebborlands Riding Centre

Wookey Hole, Wells BA5 1AY.

Tel: 01749 672550

# LESSONS: Beginners upwards. # LIVERY: Full, part, working or D.I.Y. Indoor and outdoor schools, c/c fences. # HACKING: Farm fields on southern slopes of Mendip Hills, nearby moor roads.

B.H.S. Approved Livery Yard & Riding Centre

PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

cross country course in the world rather than being the dressage competition it had been described of as late?

Certainly the dressage scores did not have the influence as in recent years and the winner Sam Griffiths from Australia with Paulank Brockagh had been in 25th place after the first two days. Oliver Townend finished a popular second with the former ride of Andrew Nicholson, Armada, and he had also been well down the order in 34th place after the dressage.

The fairy tale result of the competition was the super brave Harry Meade riding Wild Lone who finished in third place, climbing up 43 places after the dressage. Harry is an amazing person to even have been riding there as he suffered a horrific fall at the end of last year where he shattered and dislocated both his elbows and had full arm plasters on them for months.

It was really touch and go as to whether he would ever ride again, let along compete at Badminton, and in fact most of his connections thought he was totally mad when he told them that was his goal. But he rode fantastically and thoroughly deserved all the recognition he got when finishing in third.

Our two local riders unfortunately were amongst the many respected and talented riders who failed to complete

on the day. Dani Evans was competing for the first time on Raphael and had done a tremendous dressage test to be in 18th place after the two days and set off confidently and determinedly on the cross country. Unfortunately the difficult fifth fence, the Savills Escalator, caused problems early on and Dani’s Badminton dream ended here.

I know that Dani will be back though and with her fantastic attitude, ability and the support of her family I am sure she will now just focus on the future and her next events.

Selina Milnes (former Elliott) had also done very well to be there having recently had her first baby and she set off in great style on the cross country

with Bodidily looking in fine form. Unfortunately he left a leg on the first part of the influential fence 18, the Swindon Designer Outlet Mound, and tipped Selina out of the front door ending their hopes.

Again, I am sure Selina will be back on top form very soon.

All in all the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials provided spectators with a fabulous weekend of sport, and whilst there were lots of thrills and spills there were thankfully no badly injured horses or riders.

It will be very interesting to see the severity of the course next year – will they soften it slightly or stick to their changes?

Harry Meade

June 2014 show dates 01/06/2014 Unaffiliated Dressage Cannington Equestrian Centre, Bridgwater Somerset 07/06/2014 Private visit to World Horse Welfare, Somerton, Glenda Spooner Farm, Somerton Somerset

Dani Evans

(Photography courtesy of Kit Houghton, Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials

THE Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials 2014 With CELIA without GADD doubt provided the most exciting, exhilarating and unpredictable competition we have seen in decades.

Following on after the many years of Hugh Thomas’s well respected courses the new course designer Giuseppe Della Chiesa from Italy had a potentially difficult job. His course was refreshingly different, whilst also maintaining the tradition of the big event and most riders after their initial course walk were fairly happy with it, whilst realising it was going to present a true four-star challenge.

However, the bad weather conditions definitely put a different spin on it and a large number of very experienced horse and rider combinations failed to complete.

In total, only 35 out of over 80 starters completed the test which many felt was not enough. Was this course a step too far? Or did it return Badminton to its former reputation of being the toughest

08/06/2014 Roman Lodge Fun Horse Show, Roman Lodge Farm, Bath 13/06/201415/06/2014 Nunney International Horse Trials, Nunney International Horse Trials, Frome Somerset 15/06/2014 Southwest Association WPCS

Annual Bronze Medal Show, Chard Showground, Chard Somerset 22/06/2014 Cutcombe Horse Show and Gymkhana, Dunkery Hill Gate, Minehead Somerset Taunton Vale Horse Show, Haygrass, Taunton Somerset

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And the winner is . . .

Pictured in front of Southfield House are Nunney Horse Trials committee members (l:r): Jessica Colson, Karen Dunford, Teresa Dufosee, Bridget Parker, Alisa Hunter-Gordon and David Cowie

FROME Cheese Show has won a competition to become the title sponsor of this year’s Nunney International Horse Trials.

Organisations were invited to enter a lottery to win the honour.

Former Olympic medallist Bridget Parker, who won team gold at Munich in 1972 riding Cornish Gold, drew the winning ticket at Southfield House at Whatley, where the horse trials take place from Friday, June 13th until Sunday, June 15th.

Mrs Parker said: “The lottery is such a good idea as it engages local businesses and I was honoured to be asked to do the draw. I used to run Frome Horse Trials here years ago.”

Brenda Scott, secretary of the cheese show, said: “Frome & District Agricultural Society and Frome Show incorporating the Global Cheese Awards, is delighted to be involved and to support the Nunney International Horse Trials. Both the Nunney Horse Trials and Frome Show are major events in the local calendar. We are thrilled to have won the main sponsor title. ” Other winners are Saturday’s sponsor Lovell Stone Group and Old Mill Accountants who are day sponsors on Friday.

Double celebration

HILL Farm Equestrian at Burtle has had its planning application approved for an indoor arena and hopes to have it open at the end of August this year, with a Grand Opening Day. It’s also celebrating the success of one of its liveries. Lucy Pickles and her horse Paloma came first at the Cotley Hunt one-day event at 75-80cms class. This was Lucy’s first event on her new horse.

She also competed in the NSCA team show jumping for Hugh Sexeys school at Blackford at West Wilts and the team came first at 80cms class and the 90cms class and they have now qualified for the national championships at Adington in October.

Lucy also came first at BSJA at Badgworth 80cms British novice and gained a double clear in the discovery, so quite an achievement for one young lady. She has liveried at Hill Farm for seven years and is one of a number of riders competing at national level who find the training facilities there outstanding.

RIDING

Sun shines on Mid Somerset

A LOVELY sunny Easter Saturday was enjoyed at South Barrow Equestrian by kind permission of Ed Hobbs, with all the riders taking part in The Mid Somerset Riding Club’s Mini Combined Training.

Class winners were Frances Wadham on Finlay, Flora Layard on Kipper and Mel Barnes on Patsy.

RESULTS: Class 1 1st Finlay (Frances Wadham) 2nd Valentino (Lisa Shields) 3rd Kingswear (Chloe Matravers) 4th Kipper (Flora Layard) 5th Mountain Butterfly (Ned Thomas) 6th Mountain Butterfly (Wilf Thomas) Class 2 1st Kipper 2nd William (Molly Colwell) 3rd Dusty (Faith Wakeley) 4th Tango (April Masters) 5th Splash of Colour (Jasmine Wiltshire) 6th Mr Pickles (Molly Moses) Class 3 1st Patsy (Mel Barnes) 2nd Jonny (Elsie Brade) 3rd Mr Pickles (Sophie Moses) 4th Steplake Fudge (Baz Raymond) 5th Tango (April Masters) 6th Alfie (Issy Colwell)

Activity Days in School Holidays Show Jump Training Day urs 29th May 10-5 £35 XC Schooling at Pontispool Fri 30th May 2hr Lesson £18 and you pay own course fees.

Jump Training Clinic with Charlotte Bilson Sat 31st May 1hr Groups £15

Lessons Taster Lesson £10 (Adult or Child come and have a try at Riding) Show Jump, Flat Work or Cross Country Training on your own horse/pony from £15 per 1hr Groups (PC Members £5 discount) most Saturdays and some Sundays Riding School Lessons £25 (£5 Discount if you bring this advert)

Try something new or just brush off the cobwebs and remember the wonderful time in years gone by you had getting in the saddle. In association with Sport England and e British Equestrian Federation. Hill Farm Equestrian is very proud to be offering a seven week course “Take Back the Reins” – this has been designed specifically for those wanting to find a little “me time” – e sessions will not only include riding, but also enjoying a coffee with fellow participants each week – £20 per week

Livery DIY, Part, Full, Schooling & Holiday Livery available.

Purpose built stable yard and New American Barn style stables.

Fantastic facilities including – 2 x All Weather Arenas, Show Jump Paddock with XC Jumps, Wash Box, Meeting Room, Tuck Shop, Saddlery Goods for sale, Free Lorry/ Trailer Parking.

Reduced Price Lessons. Plus other excellent facilities.

British Horse Society Approved Riding School & Livery Yard (Highest Rating) Local Authority Licensed Riding School

Hill Farm Equestrian, Hill Farm, Burtle, Bridgwater, Somerset TA7 8NB 01278 723415 or 07891 555151 or 07977 122047 Hillfarmequestrian.com or hillfarmequestrian@hotmail.co.uk

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Season ends in style

Megan and Gwanako clear the final fence in the lead

THE annual season at Wincanton Racecourse has ended in some style – on and off the track!

Its last fixture was Ladies Day, which attracted race fans from across the country for an afternoon of glamour.

But one of the highlights was definitely on the course itself with a stunning ride by Megan Nicholls, daughter of 2014 champion trainer Paul, to win the hard-fought Wessex Area Lady Riders’ Final steeplechase.

Megan qualified with the Rose Loxton-trained Gwanako at the Mendip Farmers Point to Point at Ston Easton and the pair justified their 2/1 on favourite status to give Megan her first winner under rules.

Steve Parlett, General Manager, Wincanton Racecourse, said: “Over next five months, the team will proactively

Fiona Walker (left) from the Wessex P-P Secretaries Association presents Margaret Nicholls with grand-daughter Megan’s trophy

plan the forthcoming seasonal activities which launches on October 16th with our informative Under Starters Orders themed raceday. Our team have done a sterling job this season, battling the elements in which we only lost one fixture during the wettest winter ever!

“Also, I would like to credit our many loyal racegoers and annual members that make Wincanton the true home of rural racing. We look forward to welcoming back our customers and will continue to provide them value for money, further entertainment alongside competitive racing.

“Additional gratitude is extended to the racing industry from the owners, trainers and jockeys to the stable staff. Racing needs their support and we will continue to ensure that their Somerset experience is an enjoyable one.”

Racegoers from Dorset

Sue Moon, from Evercreech, with her niece Sally Durdin, who lives in Lancaster

Scarlett Flanagan and Jessica WhetstoneRoadly, from Castle Cary

PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

By Mark Adler

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Family favourite: Megan Nicholls and her family celebrate in the winner’s enclosure

RIDING

Katie Bennett, from Shepton Mallet with friends Laura Hawthorne and Alexis Lovell, both from Wells

Cowards Close (right) ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies was narrowly beaten by Allthekingshorses

No reins on their ambitions

DOZENS of young riders took to the track at Wincanton for the annual Wylye Valley Pony Club Race Day. The competitors came from across the country for an eight race card which tested their abilities over four or eight furlongs.

Members of the host club enjoyed some good successes, although one of the standout performances amongst the 55 entries came from Molly Landau, aged nine, from Over Stowey, near Bridgwater. Molly, a member of the Quantock PC, won her first ever race, riding Becca Walk O’the Wildside.

Organisers said they were delighted by the number of entries and the standard of competition.

Paddock commentator Frank Shellard said: “This could be the start of something big for Victorious Molly Landau (kneeling, front) with her trophy and the them.” rest of the jockeys

Gill Griffin (left), from Chew Magna, was the reserve best dressed lady in a competition judged by stylist Natasha Musson. The winner was Judith Beckett, from Derby, whose prize included a paidfor visit to event sponor Kilver Court Designer Village

Luca Morgan, who lives near Frome, prepares to celebrate victory in the Combined Bellevue Veterinary Clinic Mile with pony Milly

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MUSIC

Concert success

Hitting the right note

MENDIP Male Voice Choir welcomed the oldest and one of the best Welsh choirs, the Dunvant Male, as well as the superb Parti Llwchwr ladies choir to a packed St John’s Church, Keynsham for a charity concert in aid of the Children’s Hospice South West.

The evening, organised by the Rotary clubs of Keynsham and Chelwood Bridge, raised over £3,000. A separate cheque for £800 was presented to the charity by Richard Luscombe, proceeds from the sale of the choir’s CDs.

ABBEY Pianos is a well-kept secret in the lovely village of Chilcompton, where they have some 30 pianos in stock for sale, along with a fully equipped workshop space. The showroom has recently been refitted and modified to allow more space for pianos and a better area to show them off at their best.

They always have a busy workshop, with several full restoration projects on the go at any one time, as well as action work and repairs. Apart from sales, restorations and repairs they provide a fully insured removal service to make sure that your pride and joy gets from A to B in tiptop condition.

Alongside Abbey Piano Services they also run Mark Doman Piano Tuner to keep your piano sounding just note perfect!

Musicians impress

A CONCERT at Nailsea school raised £1,100 for local charities. Organised by Nailsea and Backwell Rotary Club the event featured Lions 4 Brass Youth Orchestra and soloists from Nailsea School.

Rotarian Chris Perry praised the outstanding performance of the young musicians playing in front of an audience of more than 200.

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Health check boost from sporting charity

Aspiring fencer Josh Stevens, 15, who is being helped by TS5C, tries out the blood pressure monitor as Alan Gloak, chairman of the charity and Glastonbury GP JX Meguer look on. Josh is a member of the British Fencing World Class Talent Programme and is targeting the 2024 Olympics

A MEDICAL centre on Mendip has been presented with new pieces of equipment partly funded by the Somersetbased sporting charity TS5C. The charity is aimed at helping fund young sportspeople in the county to qualify for future Olympics but part of its remit is also to encourage healthy lifestyles amongst the general public.

An easy-to-use blood pressure monitor and a machine to measure height/weight ratios have been presented to the Glastonbury Medical Practice.

Open for entries

APPLICATIONS are now open for people wanting to take part in the second Festival Run around Worthy Farm at Pilton, the home of the Glastonbury Festival.

Following the success of the inaugural event last year, organisers have now designed a ten kilometre race, taking in more of the iconic features of the site.

Almost 250 runners competed in the 5km and 2km runs last year – entries this year have been increased to 450.

The course for the 10km run will be a single lap on an undulating course, mainly on tracks, that passes many of the legendary festival landmarks such as the pyramid stage, stone circle and the pirate ship. It also passes by the medieval Pilton Abbey Barn and goes along part of the old

SPORT

Slate success for Shepton duo

Victoria Inn landlord Olly Nolan (left) with Gary and Phil

SHOVE ha’penny players Phil Foxwell and Gary Haygarth returned victorious from a competition in Wales bringing home a trophy to England for the first time in more than 60 years.

The Shepton Mallet duo beat off tough competition to win the Pairs Tournament in the Welsh Open. The trophy last left Wales in the late 1940s.

Now the friends are practising hard for the Mid Somerset Open Competition in July. The contest – for singles and pairs – will be held at the Victoria Inn in Shepton Mallet, on Saturday, July 19th.

And Shepton Mallet will once again host the World Championships, taking place next year. Dozens of players gathered in the town when it last hosted the event in 2012.

Registration for the Mid Somerset Open starts at 10.45am for an 11am start at the Victoria Inn. For more information, call: 07796 365508

trackway of the Somerset and Dorset Railway.

Christine King of the Festival Run organising committee, said: “This year we have streamlined the entry process to make it easier for runners, through introducing online entries.

We expect that popular demand will make early entry very desirable.”

Julie Patterson of Childrens’ Hospice South West, said: “Being involved in The Festival Run has been an absolute pleasure; we are so grateful to the organisers and to everyone who took part in 2013. We are delighted to have been nominated as The Festival Run charity for 2014 and encourage runners of all abilities to join in this iconic event.”

Full details on the 2014 Run are on http://www.piltonvillage.co.uk/festival-run.html or thefestivalrun on Facebook or Twitter. Normal entry charges will be £12 (10km), £8 (5km) and £3 (2km) with all proceeds after expenses going to Children's’ Hospice South West.

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MENDIP TIMES

Fun and sun at Frome 7s festival MORE than 30 teams from across the south west and further afield took to the pitches at Frome Rugby Club for its third annual 7s festival.

Cheered on by hundreds of supporters, teams battled for honours in the Mens Open, Mens Social and Ladies Round Robin competitions.

The festival lived up to its billing. As organisers said in the programme introduction: “We all know these tournaments wouldn’t be such a success without the players, however it’s the volunteers, team managers and coaches that actually make the tournament a success. Remember, without these dedicated, unsung patrons sport simply

Tournament winners St Paul’s Pirates take to the field

wouldn’t be as accessible as it is today.”

St Paul’s Pirates Rugby 7s, who have their origins in the University of

CLIC Sargent Godfathers (in black) in action

Gloucester, won the mens open tournament; Weston Hornettes won the ladies trophy.

Old Reds Ladies, from Brislington, relax in the sun

Kerryanne Williams scores for Weston Hornettes PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Tempers fray during the Frome Colts v Walcot match

Host side Frome (in blue) on the attack

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SPORT

Secret to club’s success?

It’s people

Frome army cadets were results runners

Tony Spreadbury (second left) with Paul Williamson from Realia Marketing, one of the club’s sponsors, club secretary Viv Armson and her husband Steve, the club’s youth co-ordinator

Frome Colts score against Walcot

Members of the 1st Yorkshire regiment, based at Warminster, fielded a strong side

CASTLE Cary rugby club marked its 125th anniversary with a celebration lunch attended by leading referee Tony Spreadbury.

Chris Watts, president of CCRFC, the oldest club in Somerset, told guests: “How does a club last 125 years? It is all down to the people behind it.”

Somerset county councillor Anna Groskop presents the club with a cheque for £2,500 from the authority’s Health and Wellbeing Fund for heart defibrillator equipment which will be available to the community. Anna is pictured with club chairman Paul Lester-Hinchliffe (left) and president Chris Watts MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 97

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Lion-Harts victorious RAIN fell over Redhill Club as the Mendip Table Skittles League came to an end, reminding us that this was England’s wettest winter since 1766.

Table skittles being a nice, snug indoor sport, the weather made almost no difference to the season we have just enjoyed, but if we’re talking about records, then it was quite a year in our sport as well!

For only the second time in 17 years, and the first time since 2003, The Crown, Regil, failed to win the league title, the Lion-Harts from Redhill pipping them to glory by just one point.

Division 1 pairs winners Alan Dibble (left) and Micky Parsons

Although the Crown got some revenge by taking the Division One Cup in a very close final against the Lion-Harts, it was the Lion-Harts who had the last laugh, completing the league and cup double by defeating the Stoke Inn in the League Cup Final.

Kenny Croker took the Division One individual crown to get a rare bit of silverware for the Crown, but Alan Dibble and Mickey Parsons of the LionHarts pinched the pairs’ title back.

Meanwhile, Joyce Payne condemned Jean Sweeney of the Crown to more disappointment by winning the ladies title for Congresbury Club.

In Division Two, The Plough, also in Congresbury, achieved the quite remarkable feat of going the whole season undefeated to win the title, and are already looking forward to a sterner test on unfamiliar tables in Division One next year!

The Blue Flame weren’t far behind them and took second place in a hotlycontested season. Division Two’s individual champion, for the second time, was the ever-dapper Julian Scott, while Dave Durbin and Chris Hayes, also of Tetley Brewers, came away with the pairs title.

The Division Two Cup competition was won by Shipham Sheep Worriers, preventing the Plough from doing their own division two double.

Ladies winner Joyce Payne

Division 2 winner Julian Scott

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Division 2 pairs cup Dave Durbin and Chris Hayes

But the most remarkable recordmaking moment of the year has to be the story of Murat Gumus, who became the first non-EU player in the world to win a table skittles trophy, being a key (if quiet and shy) part of the Lion-Harts squad all season.

A long, hot summer awaits and then it all begins again in September. If any pubs, landlords or individuals are interested in joining the league, please don’t hesitate to contact Jill Quick via the Mendip Table Skittles website, where full details of all this year’s fixtures and results are available: www.mendiptableskittles.co.uk Steve Miles

Division 1 individual winner Ken Croker

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Backwell’s anniversary

BACKWELL Athletic Junior Football Club are holding their annual registration day on June 28th, 10.30-12noon at Backwell Playing Fields. There will be fun, games and refreshments available together with a chance to meet their FA qualified coaches and support volunteers.

The club has celebrated its 40th anniversary this year and continues to provide excellent football coaching for boys and girls in a fun and relaxed environment.

For more information about the club visit www.clubwebsite.co.uk/backwellathleticjuniorfootballclub

Brothers dominate

Players help players

SPORT

SHIPHAM AFC has received a donation from Shipham Players Amateur Dramatic Society that has helped them to buy two new five-a-side goals.

The goals will form an integral part of the summer training routine for the youth side of the club who train at Shipham’s pitch on a Wednesday evening and for the Veterans when they hold tournaments.

Steve Dodd, chairman of Shipham AFC, said: “This really makes a difference to us. We rely heavily on fundraising to keep our grounds and equipment up to scratch. We bought our first set of goals when the club was reformed in 2007 and there is only so much that gaffer tape and cable ties can do to keep them together.

“Our youth football sessions are going from strength to strength and having the right equipment to support them is vital.”

A few of the footballers double up as members of Shipham Players, with several of the youth team taking part in the production of The Tinderbox last Christmas and some of the Veterans lining up in the Players’ forthcoming production of two Alan Aykbourn plays in Two Comedies and a Curry on June 20th and 21st at Shipham Village Hall.

Daniel Jeffrey, chairman of Shipham Players, said: “We very much see ourselves as a community organisation and are very pleased, where we can, to give a little back to show our thanks for the great support that the community shows us.”

George Bladon/gbpixSophie Elbourn)

Details: Shipham Players, Daniel 01934 744882; Shipham AFC, Steve 01934 843660. Tickets for the forthcoming production available from Hansfords in Shipham.

Croquet for beginners BROTHERS Nathan and Kieran Young, from Wells City Harriers, lead the 240-strong field in the Pensford 10k, with Nathan (left) winning in a time of 34.31, with Kieran second.

Nathan won the same race last year.

Annabel Granger, Bristol and West AC, was the first female finisher in 38.44, after being runner-up last year.

THE first beginners’ course is under way at Camerton and Peasedown Croquet Club, lead by the club’s four expert coaches.

CPCC is a welcoming club, catering for all abilities, where members play croquet the whole year round and take part in a wide range of social activities.

The coaches will be on hand on the first Saturday afternoon of every month from 2-5 pm so that anyone can find out about croquet and the club.

Details: Mo Boys 01225 708540.

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GOLF

Golf for all at Mendip Spring open day

NOW under progressive new ownership, Mendip Spring Golf Club is holding a special Open Day on Sunday, June 22nd, between 11am and 3pm. Aimed at all who play golf and those who are interested in learning the game, the event will have something to appeal to all abilities.

All equipment will be supplied for you to try your hand on the driving range under the guidance of PGA professional golfers. You can have a free putting and chipping lesson; inspect the superb 18-hole and 9-hole golf courses; and tour the magnificent clubhouse to see the facilities on offer, including function rooms for weddings, meetings and various social events.

All visitors, young and old, can enjoy a complementary BBQ and meet the new Mendip Spring owners to learn about their future plans for the club. If you like what you see and hear – you can obtain full information on a range of special ‘taster’ and membership offers.

In late March, Mendip Spring was threatened with closure as a golf club.

Over 200 concerned members packed an urgently convened meeting and voted overwhelmingly to approve a multimillion pound deal to save the club from extinction. The Mikulla family, who live barely 500 yards from the site, on hearing of the club’s plight had worked quickly to get a deal in place with the, then, owner.

Mendip Spring Golf Club is highly regarded as one of the leading clubs in the South West. Resident PGA Professionals are available for individual and group tuition, and junior tuition is a regular Saturday morning feature. Facilities available to members and visitors include a well-stocked Pro Shop, a 15-bay driving range, and practice chipping, putting and bunker areas. Golf clubs, motorised buggies, electric and pull trollies are available for hire.

The clubhouse, centred on an original 16th century farmhouse, is full of character and provides comprehensive bar and catering facilities, restaurants, function rooms and overnight accommodation. It is an ideal venue for special occasions.

PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Mendip Spring has superb 18-hole and 9-hole golf courses.

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Cinema’s tribute to war heroes

WHAT’S ON

WELLS Film Centre is to host a series of special screenings to mark the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings and the centenary of the outbreak of World War One. The season will begin on Friday, June 6th with a live broadcast from The Royal Albert Hall of BBC Radio 2’s Friday Night is Music Night tribute D-Day 70 Years On. Hosts Jeremy Vine, Dermot O’Leary and Louise Minchin will re-tell the story of key moments of D-Day alongside a cast of actors lead by Patrick Stewart playing Sir Winston Churchill.

The musical backdrop to the historic and poignant narration will come from The BBC Concert Orchestra and a military band featuring musicians drawn from all three UK Armed Forces.

Becky Cooper, manager of the film centre, said: “Mindful of the fact that many veterans are in their late 80s and 90s, this live cinema broadcast will allow them, their families and others who are unable to travel to London or France to embrace the event visually and mark the 70th anniversary of D-Day together.”

Five films about WWI will follow. The RBL will be present at each of the shows. The films include La Grande Illusion on Monday, July 7th and Private Peaceful on Friday, October 10th when the film’s producer Guy De Beaujeu will be present to introduce the screening.

Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11th will be marked with a screening of Joyeux Noel. Wells City Band will also be performing.

Tickets for the D-Day event are £12.50 each and the cinema will be donating £3 per ticket sold to charity

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

COMING UP:

From Friday 30th May

Maleficent (PG) The Two Faces of January (12A)

From Friday 13th June

D-Day 70 Years On – Live (12A) 8pm Grace of Monaco (PG) – Book Now Belle (12A) – Book Now Bienvenuto Cellini – Live 17th June 7pm

From Friday 6th June

From Friday 20th June

Jersey Boys (TBC) – Book Now

Mrs Brown’s Boys D’Movie (15) – Book From Friday 27th June Now

G Book in person G Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk G Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 101

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Air Day spectacular

THE intensity, drama and spectacle on offer at the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day on Saturday July 26th will be an experience not to be missed. The Royal Navy’s premier award winning airshow is one of the South West’s largest oneday events, attracting over 30,000 visitors.

Over five hours of thrilling flying displays will include the Royal Navy Historic Flight’s rare collection of naval warbirds such as the Swordfish and Sea Fury whilst today’s Fleet Air Arm aircraft types will perform spectacular maritime and commando assault role demonstrations.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Dakota will make its first appearance at the show, accompanied by the iconic Spitfire and Hurricane. Its presence will be particularly poignant with it being the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings. One of the nation’s favourite aircraft, the iconic Vulcan bomber XH558, will also be there.

W I N A I R D AY T I C K E T S

Mendip Times has teamed up with the organisers to offer you the chance to win one of five family tickets for the show. Just answer this question: Which historic aircraft is making its debut at the show? Answers on a postcard to Air Day Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG by Friday June 13th. The first five correct answers drawn will win the tickets. The editor’s decision is final.

COMPETITION WINNER

Last month we offered you the chance to win a pair of tickets for Ladies' Day at the Royal Bath and West Show. The first correct answer drawn was from Judith Tranter, from Rickford.

PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

Burrington gets ‘Mad Man’ to market parish room

LUCKILY Burrington Parish Room happens to have an exinternational advertising man as its Chairperson. Award winning creative director, Barry Smith, has masterminded a cheeky advertising campaign to run exclusively in The Mendip Times.

The advertisements will appear over the next few months pointing out how inexpensive it is to rent Burrington Parish Room compared to other venues.

Barry said “It’s a tongue in cheek approach using wit to emphasis you can rent the hall for as little as £30 for 3 hours.

We hope the other venues in the area appreciate the humour.”

Barry was helped by local artist and ex-adman Rod Hobbs.

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Frome Festival’s phenomenal line-up

WHAT’S ON

Frome Street Bandits get in the festival spirit

THIS year’s Frome Festival boasts more than 200 events, making it the biggest so far and confirming its status as one of the premier arts and community events in the west country.

Now in its 14th year, the festival – running from Friday, July 4th until Sunday, July 13th – promises an eclectic mix of events throughout the town’s venues, pubs, churches, halls and gardens!

And for those who want to participate rather than simply watch, organisers are hoping to break the world record for the number of people to gather in one place dressed as characters from The Wizard of Oz. The attempt takes place on Sunday, July 13th. The record currently stands at 446 – their target is 600!

Headline acts include comedian Paul Merton who will be in Frome on Tuesday, July 8th at the Memorial Theatre with his Impro Chums show. Paul Merton, Suki Webster, Richard Vranch, Steve Steen and Andy Smart will create a new and unique comedy improvisation show, based entirely on suggestions from the audience.

Other comedians include Paul Chowdhry, seen by many as the UK’s number one Asian comedian, Seann Walsh and Jeremy Hardy, who will close the festival on the Sunday night.

Music headliners at the Cheese and Grain are the popular folk-rock band The Levellers who play on Friday, July 11th and alternative rock legends Inspiral Carpets the following night.

Once again, the Festival Food Feast will take place in the car park next to the Cheese and Grain on Saturday, July 5th.

Frome Children’s Festival will provide entertainment for youngsters and Acoustic Plus will present live music.

There is an opportunituy to discover Frome’s artists by visiting the Open Studios and celebrate Frome’s rich artistic reputation. Trail Maps are available at the Cheese and Grain, Frome Library, Black Swan Arts and many other locations around town.

And an extra day has been added to Hidden Gardens, a chance to explore the treasures that are Frome’s gardens and allotments, normally hidden from view. Hidden Gardens takes place on Friday, July 11th until Sunday, July 13th.

For more information, visit: www.fromefestival.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014 • PAGE 103

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M e n d i p

Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. Commercial entries cost £25.

On now: Frome Textiles Workshop exhibition at Frome Museum (to Saturday, July 19th). Demonstrations of spinning and dyeing. Frome Museum open 10am to 2pm Tuesdays to Saturdays. Entrance free but donations to museum funds welcome.

Friday May 23rd– Friday June 6th Exhibition by Chilcompton Art Club, Wells Cathedral Chapter House, 10am-4pm, Mon to Sat, 12.30-2.30pm on Sundays, framed and unframed works, watercolours, pastels, oils, acrylics, many items for sale.

Wednesday May 28th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support group presentation by Oakhouse Foods, Backwell W.I. Hall, starting at 1.30pm with a cuppa. All invited, whether or not you have an eye problem. Details: Sheila 01275 462107.

Wednesday May 28th – Saturday May 31st Royal Bath and West Show.

Saturday May 31st Mendip Society Walk, Winscombe, 2pm, contact Mary 01934 843789.

Mendip Consort recorder group concert, Bath Abbey, 1.30pm, entry free. dRAW: five artists explore experimental methods of drawing. Black Swan Arts Centre, 2 Bridge Street, Frome, BA11 1BB. Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm, closed Sunday. Runs until June 28th.

Sunday June 1st Redhill Village Club Car Boot Sale, 9am12noon, entry free (or £5 per pitch to sell, we can provide a 6ft table), BBQ food & drinks, all welcome, Church Road, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Wednesday June 4th North Somerset Decorative & Fine Arts Society (NSDFAS), The Elgin Marbles, by Alan Read, 37 Club between Woolavington and Puriton, 7pm.

Details: Rosie Lishman Tel. 01278 722579.

Thursday June 5th West Mendip Walkers, an easy circular walk of 6 miles (9.6kms) exploring the ups and downs of the Chew Valley, OS Map:Explorer 141 Grid:ST541597. Start 1.30pm from Breach Hill Common. Details: Tony Strange tel: 01934 733783 or 07976 902706 email: anthonyestrange@gmail.com or http://www.mendipramblers.co.uk A Lifetime in Music – a talk by Dr Barry Rose for Cheddar Valley U3A at Church House Cheddar, 2.15pm. Barry is best known for conducting the choir at Charles’ and Diana’s wedding. Visitors welcome, details 01934 710242 or www.cheddarvalleyu3a.org.uk.

Friday June 6th– Sunday June 8th Mark Flower Festival – 10am-4pm each day at Mark Church. Refreshments available. Events include community singing, organ recital, bell ringing and tower tour. Details: 01278 641225.

Friday June 6th Redhill Village Club Open Mic Night from 8pm, hosted by Jerry Blythe. All welcome, artists PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2014

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and spectators alike. FREE ENTRY. Church Road, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Wrington Friendship Club, presentation by members of Wrington WI. The club meets every other Friday at Wrington Memorial Hall, Silver Street and welcomes new members over 50.

Details: Fred Parsons, chairman, 01934 863562.

Saturday June 7th D-Day 70th Anniversary celebrations, Stoke St. Michael, details: Al and Sarah Stewart 01749 840275 email alunstewart69@hotmail.com Barn Dance, Farrington Gurney Memorial Hall, Church Lane, BS39 6UD, 7pm, in aid of St John’s Church, live music, tickets £10, U-10s £5 (to include supper) from Farrington’s Farm Shop or 01761 4562342.

Kingston Seymour Market, village hall from 10am – noon, with a wide variety of stalls. Goods available range from jams & chutneys, vegetables, cakes, meat, handicrafts and books, dvds and jigsaw puzzles.

Saturday June 7th At 6.30pm – NANTWICH, “Now Another That’s What I Call Hymns” at St. Mary’s Wedmore. Hymns, songs, poems and readings to evoke the theme of war and peace to remember the Great War. From 6.30pm. Details: dahopkins@aol.com or 01934 710149.

Sheep racing, Priddy Village Green, from 5.30pm, in aid of Priddy Pre-School. Details: Juanita Glass mother-glass@hotmail.co.uk 01749 675425.

Mendip Society special interest walk Broadmead Quarry, Westbury-sub-Mendip, meet at 2.00pm at Broadmead Quarry, BA5 1HT. ST 505. Contact: Brian 01749 672457.

Blagdon’s summer picnic, 12noon, The Mead.

Details: Miriam 01761 462974 or Mike 01761 462179.

Talk by Colonel John Blashford-Snell: In Search of Lost Civilizations, a series of thrilling expeditions he and members of the Scientific Exploration Society have undertaken in South America. 6.30pm for 7pm, Market House, Castle Cary. Tickets (£15 per person to include first drink and canapés) from Sarah-Jane Lewis: sjanelewis@yahoo.co.uk or 07817624935 Sunday June 8th Whit-Fun-Day, St John’s School field, Midsomer Norton, tenth anniversary of this event organised by local churches, including various activities, a band, refreshments and entertainment, free, 3.30pm-6.30pm.

Wells Classic Motorcycle Club 4th annual “Tortoise and Hare Run” will be started off by the Mayor from Wells Market Place at 10am. Various run routes throughout Mendip. Details: www.wellsclassicmotorcycleclub.co.uk Tuesday June 10th Mendip DFAS agm at 10am, followed by The Book of Kells, Westex Suite, Royal Bath and West. Details Tony Lane, 01749 670652.

Congresbury Over-60’s Club, talk on ‘Herbs & Fragrant Plants’ by Don Everitt. Details: 01934) 832004.

Wednesday June 11th Kilmersdon Gardeners, Stephanie Hafferty on making garden potions, using herbs and vegetables, Kilmersdon Village Hall, 7.30pm, visitors £2. Details: 01373 813853.

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Yeo Valley Garden and Food days – a chance to tour the garden and enjoy its produce, £50 per person. Details: www.yeovalley.co.uk Thursday June 12th – Tuesday 17th STRIP: African strip cloth in a new light, an exhibition of exciting and vibrant quilts by Liz Hewitt, Midsomer Quilting, Chilcompton, Bath BA3 4RR, open 10–4 (Sunday 10.30– 4), free admission, accessible to all. Contact ffi: liz@celticstitch.co.uk Thursday June 12th West Mendip Walkers, a moderate circular walk in the Hutton area of some 5 miles (8kms) with a steep section at the start. Fine views and picturesque woodland. OS Map:Explorer 153 Grid:ST353586. Start 1.30pm, park near St Mary’s Church, Hutton.

Friday June 13th Cheddar Valley Cancer Support coffee morning, 10.30 till 12noon at Witzend, Millbourne Road, Cheddar. Details: loisemm@btinternet.com Equestrian Table Top Sale at Priddy Village Hall, BA5 3BE, 6pm-8pm (sellers from 5.15pm – £7/table – to book call Susie, 07974 020994).

Refreshments available. In aid of Mendip Farmers Pony Club.

D Day Anniversary Dance with Thornbury Swingband, 7.30pm-11pm at Long Ashton Village Hall, BS41 9DP, tickets £10, in aid of Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary, from 01275 474719 or 07989 945980.

Strode Music Theatre Society Summer Concert – a Musical Melange – 7.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Mackrell TA11 6BN. Tickets £7 from Charlton Adam PO 01458 223214 or 01458 223583. Licensed bar. Proceeds to support our beautiful churches.

Friday 13th and Saturday 14th Timsbury theatre group presents ‘I Love the 70s’, dust off your flares for an evening of music and comedy, £11 to include a 2-course 70s supper, 7.45pm, at Conygre Hall, Timsbury. Details: 07542152595 or at www.thettg.org Saturday June 14th Family Fun Day, 12noon, in aid of Cancer Research UK (Wells Fundraising Group) Harters Hill, Coxley Wick. Evening Barn Dance £10 per ticket. Details: Teresa 01749 679138.

Brent Knoll Village Fete, 2pm on the village green, “Wild West” theme, entrance £1 (U-14s free), disabled facilities. Details: 01278 760986.

Coxley Fun Day from 12noon, Harter Lane, Coxley, Wells BA5 1RD. All day B-B-Q; table top sales £10 per table; barn dance £10 per person with Bridgwater Country Dance Band + Caller, in aid of Cancer Research UK. Contact Teresa, Wells Fundraising Group, 01749 679138.

Saturday Night at the Movies, with songs from films and shows from The Maesbury Singers, 7.30pm at Croscombe Village Hall. Tickets £8 from 01749 830486 or on the door. www.maesburysingers.co.uk Congresbury Book Sale, 9am to 1 pm, War Memorial Hall, a wide selection of good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books will be available.

Butleigh Church Fete in aid of St Leonard’s Church, Butleigh School and other well recognised local charities. Details: Kinga d’Offray

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kingadoffay@me.com Mendip Society Walk, above Compton Martin, meet at 11am at The Wellsway (top of Harptree Hill), BS40 6EJ. ST 545 560. Details: David 01761 221145.

Leigh on Mendip summer fair and car boot, various attractions, rec field, noon-4.30pm.

Details: 01373 812460.

Arts & Crafts event at Churchill Post Office and Stores. 10am-1pm. Come along and support local artists. Refreshments will be served. Stalls still available. Phone 01934 852332 for further information Tuesday June 17th Faber and Faber, 90 years of excellence in cover design. The Mid-Somerset DFAS illustrated lectures, 11am at Caryford Hall, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ, free parking, £6. Details: 01963 350 527.

Thursday June19th Cheddar Valley U3A meet & greet coffee morning at Church House, Cheddar, 10.30 12noon. The singing group will provide entertainment. All visitors welcome. Details 01934 710242 or www.cheddarvalleyu3a.org.uk.

Classic Car Evening, 7pm-10pm at Redhill Village Club. Anyone with a classic or interesting vehicle can park up and chat. BBQ food available, plus hot & cold drinks. Come along and enjoy the cars on show. FREE ENTRY. Church Road, BS40 5SG. Tel: 01934 862619.

West Mendip Walkers: a strenuous 11-mile circular walk in the Quantocks. OS Map: Explorer 140 Grid:ST187365. Start 10.30am. Approach road to Forest Office is narrow with blind bends.

Friday June 20th Wrington Friendship Club, bingo session.

Details: Fred Parsons, chairman, 01934 863562.

Chew Valley RNLI, summer supper with sea shanties, Chew Valley Sailing Club, from 6pm.

Fantasy of Flowers by Farmborough Floral Art Group, St John’s Church Midsomer Norton, 10am – 4pm to Sunday 22nd June (11am – 4pm).

Refreshments available.

Friday June 20th– Sunday July 6th Winscombe and Sandford Festival – see page 46 Saturday June 21st Somerset Guild of Weavers Spinners & Dyers Fleece Fair at Hatch Beauchamp Village Hall, 10.30am-3pm. Demonstrations, fleeces and equipment for sale. Details: lesleytook@aol.com or www.somersetguildwsd.org.uk Bleadon Village Market at the village halls Bleadon, BS24 0PG. Over 30 stalls with crafts, collectables, local produce and more.

Refreshments. See www.bleadon.org.uk/market Congresbury Singers will present ‘Folk Songs of the British Isles’, St Andrew’s Church, Congresbury, 7.30pm, to celebrate the centenary of Dylan Thomas and Shakespeare’s 450th anniversary. Tickets £8, include refreshments, on door or from Paul: 01275 878740.

The Buffalo Gals, 7.30pm, Churchill Academy Hall, Churchill Community School, BS25 5QN. Tickets £14.50 (£10.50, U-18s £4) from 01934 852919. www.buffalogals.co.uk Book sale & Freecycle event in aid of Winscombe Community Association, 9am12.30pm. Refreshments available. Please leave donations of books and DVDs on the book trolley

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in the Community Centre, Sandford Road at the Thursday market, 9-12noon or call 01934 823609 or 842250.

Mendip Society Walk, June 21 – Harptrees, meet at 2pm in the car park at Herriotts Bridge at the south end of the Chew Valley Lake, BS40 6HN. ST 571. Details: Peter 01761 221995.

Sunday 22nd June Chew Valley 10k and 1k Fun Run, Bishop Sutton Primary School, Wick Road, Bishop Sutton, BS39 5XD, 9.30am start.

Syrinx – the South West’s foremost wind and piano ensemble - present Sounds of Summer.

Enjoy a candlelit supper in a cafe-style atmosphere whilst listening to a varied programme of music for wind instruments and piano. Book a table for six or come along and meet new friends. 7pm Henton Village Hall (on B3139 Wells-Wedmore road). Tickets £15 (incl. cheese & wine supper): 07595 671116 / jacquelynbevan@yahoo.co.uk Tuesday June 24th Congresbury Over-60’s Club, tea dance, 2.30pm, Congresbury War Memorial Hall.

Details: 01934 832004.

Wednesday June 25th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support meeting, 1:30pm at Backwell W.I. Hall. The speaker will be Laura Kirby, the Bristol Eye Hospital Liaison Officer. Anyone interested is very welcome to come.

Thursday June 26th West Mendip Walkers: a mod circular walk of 6.35 miles in the Polden Hills, OS Map: Explorer 141 Grid: ST462364. Start 1.30pm. Park near church just off A39.

Friday June 27th Concert at Holy Trinity Church, Coleford (BA3 5NF), 7.30pm, the Jenny Peplow Singers and The New Chilcompton Choir, tickets £8.50 each to include light refreshments. Details: The Rev Clarissa Cridland 01373 812705 or www.colefordchurch.co.uk Saturday June 28th – Sunday June 29th Village Open Gardens, The Charltons, Somerton, from 12noon – 5.30pm. Admission £3.50, one day £6 both days. Maps at the Reading Room, Hillway Charlton Mackrell, TA11 6AN. Refreshments. Proceeds to support our beautiful churches Saturday June 28th Avon & Somerset Constabulary Male Voice Choir singing at St Francis’ Church, Nailsea, in aid of Parkinson’s UK. Tickets £7.50, include glass of wine in the interval, available in Nailsea and Portishead. Enquiries: Ann Axe, 01275 856322.

Mendip Society Walk – Faulkland to Norton St.Philip. Details: Gill 01934 742508.

Congresbury Book Sale, at the summer fete, St Andrews field from 1.30 pm onwards.

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Chew Magna Village Party celebrating Chew Magna Society’s 50th anniversary in the main village car park.

Sunday June 29th Open Garden: Overbrook Cottage, Cocklake, Nr Wedmore, BS28 4HF. Open in aid of Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, 2pm-5.30pm, tea and cakes! Entry £2.50 (accompanied children free).

Tuesday July 1st Mendip DFAS, Charles Dickens: The Man and His Life Through His Characters, Westex Suite, Royal Bath and West. Details: Tony Lane 01749 670652.

Wednesday July 2nd Cheddar Vale Lions Charity Golf Day at Isle of Wedmore Golf Club, BS28 4QT. £160/team to include green fees, coffee lunch and prizes.

Details: pam@pamholmes.com or 01934 713710.

Saturday July 5th The Comedy of Errors, performed by The Festival Players in the garden of Speeds Farm, Lamyatt. Tickets £15 (U-15s £5), in aid of Lamyatt church and village hall. Details: 01749 812031.

Grand Book Sale and Coffee Morning (plus cakes to buy) 10am-12.30pm, at Backwell WI Hall, in aid of The Macular Society Research Appeal and the WI Hall Fund. Please ring Sheila on 01275 462107 if you have books to donate or to collect if required.

Easton Extravaganza afternoon event at Easton Village Hall 2pm-4.30pm, opening by Wells Town Cryer, various attractions, barbecue and bar, evening ceilidh with The Back Room Band.

Details: Jean Mair 01749 870929.

Mendip Society Walk, Harridge Wood and Stoke Bottom. Details: Richard 01275 852786.

Saturday July 12th Songs for a Summer Evening with the delightful 30-strong Unity Singers at Barrow Gurney Village Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £5 including light refreshments available on the door or from Mary James 01275 392120. Fundraising for St Peter’s Hospice. Organised by Barrow Gurney WI. Music on the Green, Brent Knoll, with The Fallen Apples, 7.30pm, £8, children free from the village shop or call Eddie 01278 760308. Earlier Brent Knoll farmers market and café.

Sunday, July 13 Wells Charity Boules tournament. Money raised from this year’s event will go to The Nepal Trust, specifically to help fund a Birthing Centre. www.wellsboules.co.uk Family Fun Day at Wells City Football Club.

Stalls available. For information, contact Sue Barber on (01761) 418320 or suebarber@sky.com

ANSWERS TO THE MENDIP MINDBENDER

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ACROSS: 1 Fred Wedlock, 7 Bye, 9 Lamyatt, 10 Balance, 11 Nerd, 12/21 Between you and me, 14 Fulsome, 15 Basenji, 17 Roasted, 18 Choc-ice, 19 Handstands, 22 Taro, 24 Untried, 25 Alpacas, 26 End, 27 Goes to waste.

DOWN: 2 Esmeralda, 3 Weak, 4 Do the deed, 5 Oxbow, 6 Kilmersdon, 7 Bonny, 8 Executive Dogs, 9 Langford House, 13 Contesting, 15 Backdraft, 16 Nuisances, 20 Noted, 23 Spew.

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Bringing the landscape to life

A SERIES of events celebrating the diversity of wildlife on the Avalon Marshes and its 10,000 years of cultural heritage is to take place in July.

The Avalon Marshes Festival will run from Saturday, July 12th to Saturday, July 26th, following a very successful first year in 2013.

Organisers say the event will comprise a wide range of activities and events which reflect the wonderful and varied wildlife, history, archaeology, produce and landscape of this area. The festival provides a brilliant taster for the area, which has a huge amount to offer people of all ages.

The Avalon Marshes is the wetland lowland area of Somerset stretching from Baltonsborough and Glastonbury in the east to East Huntspill in the west and from Mark in the north to the Poldens ridge.

The festival events are being organised by the Avalon Marshes Landscape Partnership, its partner organisations, the local community and businesses and begins with the Avalon Marshes Day on Saturday, July 12th at the Red Brick Building in Glastonbury. The festival will end with a Wildlife Extravaganza and Family Picnic at Westhay Moor.

Among the highlights will be a Roman-themed family day, guided walks and cycle tours of the area, an art exhibition, Levels’

WHAT S ON WHAT ’S O’N

One of the fun events during last year’s festival

Best farmers market and a variety of open days.

The Avalon Marshes Landscape Partnership – backed by the Heritage Lottery Fund – is made up of Somerset Wildlife Trust, Natural England, the RSPB, Somerset County Council, the Hawk and Owl Trust, English Heritage and the Environment Agency.

The Partnership works with local people, stakeholders and communities to deliver projects and activities that boost and enhance the wildlife and cultural heritage in the Avalon Marshes.

For a full list of events and activities, visit www.avalonmarshes.org or look out for the festival leaflets in tourist information centres, libraries and at the Avalon Marshes Centre where the festival team is based. Alternatively email: info@avalonmarshes.org or phone 01458 860556.

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