Issue 8 - Volume 17 - Mendip Times

Mendip Times

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VOLUME 17 ISSUE 8

FREE

Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

JANUARY 2022

IN THIS ISSUE: • SEASONAL EVENTS • CAVING AWARDS • ENVIRONMENT • COMMUNITY • EVENTING

WISHING ALL OUR READERS A HAPPY NEW YEAR! Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

THIS is one of the busiest New Year issues in our 17 years, showing the determination of communities to get together after months of uncertainty and lockdown – let’s hope there’s no return.

We’ve pictures from right across the area, as well as many pages devoted to the wonderful work of our local voluntary groups and charities.

Thanks too to a growing number of local correspondents for their news and features and the many advertisers, old and new, who have helped see us through the pandemic.

It doesn’t make economic sense, but the greater our income, the more space we are able to add for editorial in the magazine. Judging by the huge response to our Christmas hamper competition, it is a policy appreciated by many.

This month we meet one of the last air heroes of WW2 before his 100th birthday and Katy Beauchamp has advice on what to do with leftover Christmas nuts.

We join cavers for their annual awards. Somerset County Council’s chairman has been giving out his awards. And Chew Valley RFC have been given a national award. It’s nice to have something to celebrate!

With all of our regular features and brilliant contributors, we wish you a happy and healthy New Year.

February 2022 deadline: Friday 14th January 2022 Published: Tuesday 25th January 2022

Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk What’s On listings: Annie Egginton annie@mendiptimes.co.uk Accounts: accounts@mendiptimes.co.uk Publisher: Mendip Times Limited Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone:

01761 463888

or email: news@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk

Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: William Gibbons & Sons Ltd, Willenhall, Wolverhampton WV13 3XA. 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: Santa Special at the East Somerset Railway.

Photo by Mark Adler. See page 56.

11

22

Farming’s winter warmer – Frome fatstock show

Street food – festive fun in village

67

Ready for spring – kids get planting

53

Mendip’s finest – annual caving awards Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Nick Green .....................10 Food & Drink ...............................18 Arts & Antiques ...........................26 Internet and Crossword ..............32 Business.........................................34 Property ........................................41 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......45 Walking Sue Gearing ....................46

Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........48 Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......50 Charities........................................57 Health & Family ..........................62 Caving Phil Hendy ........................67 Community ...................................68 Riding Jane Paterson .....................83 Sport ..............................................84 What’s On.....................................87 MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 3

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Vintage buses halted

VINTAGE bus enthusiasts have had to call off plans to provide a New Year’s Day service, when many regular services are suspended, because of new Covid restrictions.

They had drawn up timetables to provide services between Bristol, Wells, LHT 911 is a 1948 Bristol L type bus which saw service on country routes until 1963 before Glastonbury and becoming a mobile site office for a builder. It’s Street. been in the present owner’s family since 1974.

This year marks the centenary of Bristol Tramways & Carriage Company operating a bus service between Wells and Street.

January 2022 also marks the centenary of buses being stabled at the depot in Priory Road, Wells.

John Hitchings from the group said: “There are very few sites in the country where public service vehicles have been continuously parked and serviced for exactly a hundred years.”

Schools trust expands

NEWS

Winscombe

WESSEX Learning Trust has welcomed Sandford and Winscombe Primary Schools, adding to the 14 schools already in the trust.

Trust chief executive, Gavin Ball, said: “This move is just the start of an amazing journey together and I look forward to working with the staff and learners at the schools to continue their amazing work with our young people over the coming months and years.”

Executive headteacher across Winscombe and Sandford, Lorna Richardson, said: “We cannot wait to see what this partnership brings and look forward to working with our colleagues in other schools to grow and develop what we do.”

Record poppy appeal

THE Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in Congresbury has produced another record collection, with just over £10,865 raised.

Organiser, Irving Prowse, said: “My thanks are extended to everyone who serviced the 107 boxes in our area. The collection on a house-to-house basis continues to fall as we are prevented from knocking on doors displaying ‘no doorstep traders’ signs.

“However, with boxes over the whole of our area I am convinced that anyone wanting a poppy should have no difficulty in finding one. Once again, thanks to everyone who helped and contributed to the appeal.”

Dashing Santas

Sandford

Details: 01934 745363 or visit www.wessexlearningtrust.co.uk

CANCER counselling charity We Hear You held its annual Santa Dash at The Old Showfield, with the support of Frome Cricket Club and Frome Running Club.

Some 50 Santas ran the 4k distance in Frome, with 11 participants taking part in a virtual Santa Dash and running wherever they happened to be.

Details: https://wehearyou.enthuse.com/cf/santa-dash-2021 MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 5

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MENDIP TIMES

Come and eat me!

Eddie Morgan plants a plum tree

THE Food Forest Project team in Shepton Mallet, have planted their fourth edible community woodland, close to the town centre.

The site was a narrow but long stretch of wasteland next to the Hillmead estate and was being used as a dumping ground for trolleys, tyres, litter and dog mess so the project decided to tidy it up and plant an edible

forest garden for the local community.

Local residents joined in the day-long planting of almost 170 trees and shrubs to create two new hedgerows, two raised herb beds, fruit and nut trees and berry and currant bushes.

To ensure the project was extra special the team commissioned local artist Flo Lippin to paint two large murals and have installed an education board about the site. Over the years to come the forest garden will produce lots of free food to help mitigate food poverty in the Shepton Mallet area whilst also creating an open space for people’s mental health and wellbeing, create habitat and biodiversity and to help sequester carbon.

The site, on Meadow Rise, joins the project’s two other free food schemes in the area – at West Shepton and next to Rock Farm at Downside Louise Bombardelli, who lives nearby, at along with a similar scheme in Wedmore. work

Getting ready to plant: (l:r) Faye, Robin, Tristan – the FFP founder – Eddie and Chris

Artist Flo Lippin (seated right) who painted the murals

A Food Forest Project information board

For details, visit: www.thefoodforestproject.org

Less waste going to landfill

NEW figures show there has been a big drop in the amount of waste from across Bath and North East Somerset being sent to landfill.

Thanks to the record-breaking recycling efforts of residents, just three percent of waste was sent to landfill in 2020/21, down from 15 percent the previous year.

Councillor David Wood, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “This really is a phenomenal achievement, and the PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

figures show our residents take environmental issues seriously.

“We should be very proud of the work being done across the district to reuse and recycle – and that includes the efforts of our waste teams who do a great job.

“However, our ultimate aim is to waste nothing and we will continue to support people to reduce their waste; sharing tips on the small steps that can be taken to save resources and ultimately save our environment.”

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ENVIRONMENT

How Somerset has responded to flooding

A NEW Somerset film called Down by the River premieres in January, with ten free screenings countywide. Each event will also include an entertaining and thought-provoking selection of Somerset archive films.

The film is a documentary about the inspiring ways that communities across Somerset have responded to flooding. It was commissioned by Somerset Rivers Authority from the Bridgwater-based charity Somerset Film.

It celebrates local volunteers and highlights some of the extraordinary work they do to help reduce the risks of flooding.

Places featured include Moorland, Martock and Ham on the Somerset Levels & Moors, Croscombe in Mendip and West Somerset.

Archive films will cover historic Somerset floods, local groups like the Home Guard in WW2 and fundraising carnivals.

County councillor, David Hall, chair of Somerset Rivers Authority said: "Down by the River is a beautifully shot film that shows the best of Somerset, both in terms of our landscape and the people who live here.

“These free events will also illustrate how valuable past experiences can be in responding to challenges such as flooding

and climate change.”

Each event will last about two hours. The first will be held at Bridgwater Arts Centre on January 7th 2022 at 7pm, with free tea and cake. Followed by: Burrowbridge Coronation Hall, January 8th, 7pm Roadwater Village Hall, January 14th, 7pm Taunton Creative Innovation Centre CIC, January 19th, 7pm Minehead Regal Theatre, January 22nd, 2pm Glastonbury Town Hall, February 4th, 7pm Cheddar Village Hall, February 12th, 7pm Martock Parish Hall, February 19th, 7pm Screenings in Yeovil and Shepton Mallet will be in March.

Light refreshments will be available at all screenings. The film will be available online after the screenings.

Deb Richardson, creative director at Somerset Film, said: “This is a really important project and we are delighted to have been involved.

“As we look forward to the future and begin to explore how we might respond to climate change, it is invaluable to learn from past lessons and each other and to explore our strengths as a community.”

Details: www.somersetfilm.com/get-involved

Mendip award winner

THE Mendip Hills AONB Partnership have announced their Volunteer of the Year for 2021 is John Davies, from WestonSuper-Mare.

The award is made to the volunteer who the AONB Unit think has gone above and beyond a normal volunteering role.

John was presented with the award for supporting the Young Ranger scheme for over ten years and has been involved with the programme since he was a Young Ranger himself.

The AONB said: “John has really pushed himself in a challenging year for everyone and made additional efforts to renew his safeguarding training and take part in a press interview. He is one of the unsung champions of the AONB volunteers and always turns up with a smile on his face and spring in his step!”

Lauren Holt, Mendip Hills AONB Ranger, presenting John with his award

The AONB will be taking on a new Young Ranger cohort in September for 11 and 12 year olds from the local area.

Details: www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 7

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MENDIP TIMES

Because they’re worth it . . .

ENVIRONMENT

For fifty years I’ve loved this farm The views are just a dream From Glasto Tor to Alfred’s tower And farmland in between.

But this year we have visitors from “Highways” – oh what luck!

They’re building roads all round our house, so now we’re truly stuck To reach our fields we have to take a road with traffic lights No longer can we reach our land or see the lovely sights.

I open the door to walk the dogs Before their morning feed Across the lawn and through the gate There’s no need for a lead.

There was a viewpoint on the peak Where we could have a brew But now it’s lorries, vans and trucks Café and portaloo.

Through the window every day I look across the fields Watching livestock eating And hope for good corn yields.

Work on the farm is never dull And often very gritty But never would I ever swap For bustle of the city.

Much time is spent in stables Training horses to be calm First in the school for discipline And then fun on the farm.

We planted trees and hedges to protect us from the wind Providing homes for wildlife, now it’s all ripped up and binned.

From dawn to dusk machines go on, the noise just never ceases Instead of my relaxing ride my nerves are shot to pieces.

The dogs must learn to stay on leads And get into new habits Just muddy paws and slower walks And not to chase the rabbits.

At least I know it’s all worthwhile – in two or three years’ time The traffic going east and west will flow along just fine.

They’ll knock five minutes off their journey, won’t it be just heaven There’ll be no queue in Sparkford Vale just twice as long in Devon.

Frances Turner to be continued...

Camel Hill Farm, Queen Camel, Yeovil – as it was

As it looks now with work on the A303

Concern over Bristol’s clean air zone

CHEW Valley Chamber of Commerce has raised concerns about the proposed Clean Air Zone in Bristol with local MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg, and Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath and North East Somerset council.

They say the main issue is the inclusion in the zone, which is due to start next summer, of the Cumberland Bridge and the A4 Portway, which means that people in non-compliant vehicles will be charged even if they are only skirting Bristol and not driving into the polluted and congested centre.

Anyone wanting to get to the motorway to Wales or the Midlands will pay £9 for pre-2015 diesel cars and pre-2006 petrol cars and up to £100 for large vehicles.

The chamber says: “It is inevitable many will opt to use unsuitable country lanes to avoid going into the Clean Air

Zone. For example, leaving the A38 to go through Barrow Gurney and up to the M5 at Gordano.

“Of course that won’t be an option for larger vehicles such as agricultural lorries. It will also affect people travelling out of Bristol wanting to come here as visitors or customers.”

The chamber said exemptions and mitigation funding are focused on people living or businesses operating in the City of Bristol itself.

It said: “There is a real danger other people living or working in our area may not yet have recognised the potential impact it may have on them. We believe it would be fair for these measures to be accessible to those outside Bristol who could demonstrate they will be significantly impacted by the Zone.”

Details: email tintinna@aol.com or www.chewvalleychamber.co.uk

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MENDIP TIMES

A winter day in the life of a dairy farmer

AT this time of year about the only farm animals seen out in the fields are sheep.

Dairy cows are tucked up nice and warm in their winter quarters 24/7. Other than the odd tractor and hedge trimmer managing the miles of hedgerow on Mendip the passerby doesn’t see much farming activity at this With NICK time of year. There might not be much GREEN happening in the fields but it is a very different story in the farmyard.

Typically, dairy cows are milked twice a day. Cows are creatures of habit and like their lives to follow a regular routine.

Regardless of the time, as long as it is the same each day the cows will be awake and ready to be milked every morning.

They leave their living quarters and walk to the parlour. After a short wait in the collecting yard, they make their way into the milking parlour and are milked. In the meantime, someone is in the cow houses cleaning the cow beds off, cleaning the yards and putting fresh feed out for the cows.

It’s always a race to try and get the yard work done as quickly as possible so the cows don’t have to stand around waiting before returning to their houses and have something to eat and drink. Once milking is finished, the milking parlour is cleaned

Roe deer

out and washed down and more often than not calves will need to be fed.

With the early morning routine finished it is time for breakfast and a cup of tea before the daytime work. This might be feeding and bedding up other cattle on the farm, checking cows’ feet to make sure they are all ok, servicing and repairing buildings and equipment and all the other things that need doing on the farm.

In no time it is time for afternoon milking, scraping out, feeding cows and calves and washing everything up again. You don’t see much action from the road but this goes on seven days a week to make sure everyone can have their daily dose of dairy products.

Nick Green is Farms Director for Alvis Bros Ltd based at Lye Cross Farm. He is responsible for the farming and estate business and is passionate about British food and farming. As well as the business, he is involved with a number of local and national farming charities.

Newly appointed Bobcat dealer for Somerset and Bristol. Telescopic handlers, Skid steers, Excavators 0.8-8.5t

PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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FARMING

In the driving seat for good causes

MORE than 100 tractors of all sizes and ages took to the roads for the annual charity run organised by Frome Young Farmers Club.

They gathered at the Frome Showground at West Woodlands for separate runs for vintage and modern machines, taking in surrounding villages including North Brewham, Upton Noble and Wanstrow as well as Bruton, Evercreech and Doulting.

The event raised more than £1,100 for the Farming Community Network, Hannah’s Wilberry Wonder Pony and the club itself.

Noah (seated), aged four, and sister Mya, aged eight, from Nunney, with one of the family’s rare County tractors

Steve with nephew Jasper, aged two

Fatstock Society’s show and sale

Vintage and modern

The vintage tractors set off on an 18-mile route

Louis Aylesbury, former club chairman and one of the organisers, briefs the drivers

A BRITISH Blue heifer weighing 532kg was crowned supreme champion at the Frome and District Christmas Fatstock Society show and sale at Frome Livestock Market.

Owned by Andrew Bishop, from Tewkesbury, the heifer sold at auction to Blackmore Vale Butchers at £4 per kilo.

The champion British breed award went to Lucy Gould, of Mells, with her Galloway heifer.

A total of £1,500 in donations on the day of the show went to the Frome Market NHS Health Hub, the Farming Community Network and Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

All smiles in the back of this JCB

Andrew Bishop, with the supreme champion, show society president Karinna Heritage and James England, from PKF Francis Clark

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 11

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MENDIP TIMES

Westfield on song WESTFIELD

Above and right: Lois and Matilda, from Westfield Brownies switched on the lights with the help of parish councillor Geoff Fuller

RESIDENTS from Westfield who gathered for the Christmas tree switch-on ceremony were entertained with music by Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band, Westfield Voices and pupils from Westfield Primary School.

Getting ready for the big switch-on

School nativity CHEW STOKE

CHILDREN from the reception class at Chew Stoke Church School performed their Christmas nativity play “Hey Ewe!” to parents and grandparents.

Hedgehog Class teacher, Vicki Hennessy, said: “I am so proud of how hard the children have all worked to learn their lines, songs and choreography. It is hard to believe they have only been in school for three months!”

PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Some of the Westfield Primary School children

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Storm Arwen couldn’t stop Frost Fayre GLASTONBURY

ORGANISERS of Glastonbury’s Frost Fayre were forced into a last-minute change of plan when storm Arwen hit the Mendips.

Due to resume after last year’s festivities were hit by the pandemic, the event was struck by an act of nature with traders unable to put up gazebos and stalls in the High Street. Some were able to trade from their vans, but other entertainment was able to go ahead as planned.

Mayor Jon Cousins with Unity Candle bearer Irena Zvonar and members of the 914 Squadron Glastonbury and Street Air Cadets

Glastonbury Border Morris dancing in the High Street Busking in the High Street, despite the wind and cold

Edge Acrobatic Gymnasts after their performance in St John’s Church

On song outside St John’s Church – Street’s Trinity Handbellringers

Choirs from Wells, Wookey, Glastonbury and Street sing in the Lady Chapel at Glastonbury Abbey

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 13

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MENDIP TIMES

NEWS

Gail with her father, William, and baby sister Mandy, in Uganda

l C fL t (Ph t

IT may have taken a few years longer than planned, but Gail Godwin, from Wanstrow, has now followed husband Mick in writing her autobiography.

Called Gabrielle My Life As I Remember It, the book traces her early childhood in India – her father was a senior police officer based in Calcutta – Kenya and Uganda through to boarding schools in the UK, the Swinging 60s in London and several years in Canada, working for an airline in Vancouver.

Back in the UK, Gail – Gabrielle is her real name – worked as a PA to Lord Henry Bath and in interior design and moved to Warminster and Beckhampton; she met Mick in a pub (later they realised they had met previously) and eventually they married in 2001.

Mick had been a Wiltshire farmer who later became a “Name” with Lloyds of London until facing near bankruptcy

d)

Two lives, two books, together

I f Gail and Mick at home in Wanstrow

in the early 1990s. It was on his land near Warminster that a metal detectorist uncovered a Bronze Age golden torc, later declared Treasure Trove after a costly legal battle and now on display in Salisbury Museum.

Mick was first to write his book – Farms and Fortunes – which was intended for his grandchildren to read. It recounts his life from 1939 to 2009 as a farmer and a “Name” and his interests in world affairs, military aircraft and travel.

The book took him ten years to complete. Gail’s book took her 20 years and is written for her son Geoffrey who, as she says in the book: “Never seemed very interested in my past and fairly varied life.

“But I know from experience that as people mature and have families of their own, their interests change. In due course they often turn to wondering how their lives turned out as they have, wishing they’d asked certain questions when they were able, or listened more and interrupted less.”

Both books recount their move to a new house in Wanstrow in 2001 and their hand in its design. It includes a studio for Gail to pursue her love of painting.

Gail’s book is published by Jjnpublishing.com – Mick’s book is by Bright Pen

Shoe staff return to work

AGREEMENT has been reached between Clarks Shoes and the union representing around 100 workers at its Westway distribution centre in Street to end a two-month strike.

The deal with Community follows mediation with Acas.

Staff at the warehouse claimed the shoemaker had been seeking to cut their wages by almost 15% to £9.50 an hour by using controversial fire and rehire tactics.

In a joint statement, the two sides said: “Community and Clarks announce that following a process of mediation with Acas, an agreement has been reached in respect of the industrial dispute at the Clarks Westway Distribution Centre.

“We are pleased that a resolution has been reached that works in everybody’s interests, protects Community members’ livelihoods, and recognises their loyalty to Clarks.

Following an indicative ballot of Community members it is confirmed that normal working has now resumed.

“Community and Clarks express their thanks to Acas for its support and look forward to close co-operation as we move on from the dispute and commit to positive industrial relations in

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Hundreds of supporters joined strikers on a protest march which passed the original headquarters of C&J Clark

the future.”

Last March, the Hong Kong-based private equity firm LionRock Capital completed its takeover of the company in a £100m rescue deal.

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MENDIP TIMES

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Festive Night

CHEDDAR

Santa arrived, courtesy of Cheddar’s firemen Parish council chair Derek Bradley-Balmer sampling the delights of the Rotary Club of Mendip hot dog stall

Cheddar Male Choir

Cheddar Valley Lions

Rotary Big Pitch contestants from Kings of Wessex The Salvation Army Band

Cheddar hockey club

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MENDIP TIMES

Have a nutty New Year

MANY of you will be reading this before the big day, so may I wish you a Happy Christmas and I hope you are looking forward to the year ahead. Two of this month’s “dishes” use up any With KATY BEAUCHAMP Christmas nuts you may have left over; the other is a rich, tasty pork pie . . . but not as you know it!

FOOD & DRINK A TWIST ON A PORK PIE

NUT CRACKERS

METHOD Put the nuts in the blender with the pepper, rosemary and salt (if your nuts aren’t already salted!). Blitz until fine and tip into a bowl, mix in the beaten egg (you may not need it all) and use your hands to form a “dough”.

Wrap it in a sheet of greaseproof paper and Nut crackers served with garlic chill in the fridge for 30 cheese and a beetroot pickle minutes. Using another piece of greaseproof INGREDIENTS paper, roll out the (Makes approx. 16 crackers, dough sandwiched depending on size) between the pieces to 225g mixed nuts (salted about 2mm thick. Use roasted ones are best) a knife to cut into 1 small egg, beaten squares or triangles Black pepper and then slide them on 1 teaspoon rosemary the paper to a baking tray. Bake them for Salt (if using unsalted 15/20 mins on 160°C. nuts) You can top them 30g mixed seeds for the with melted butter and top (optional) a sprinkle of seeds. I served mine with a soft garlic cheese and a beetroot pickle.

A pulled pork pie

METHOD Mix together the INGREDIENTS mustard, honey, one (Serves five) teaspoon garlic granules 5 pork shoulder chops (or garlic), salt and 1 heaped tablespoon pepper and smother the mustard (any you fancy) pork chops with the 1 heaped tablespoon honey mixture. Lay them in a 2 heaped tablespoons garlic pie dish, overlapping granules or fresh garlic them, cover with foil ½ onion and bake in the oven for 5 large potatoes two hours at 160°C. 100gms butter Meanwhile fry the 2 teaspoons dried tarragon onions in 50g of butter and boil the potatoes until tender and mash with 50g butter, add in the onions and tarragon, a tsp of garlic granules (or garlic) and salt and pepper.

Shred the pork in the dish, top with the mashed potato mix and bake in the oven until hot and browned (approx 20 mins at 180°C). Serve with vegetables of your choice.

HEALTHY FRUIT AND NUT BARS

These bars quickly disappear at home when the boys are around

METHOD Put all the ingredients into a blender and blitz until a clumpy paste. If if you think it’s a bit crumbly, add some honey and blitz again.

Press the mixture into a suitable tray. If you’re using the mixed seeds, sprinkle them on top and press them in lightly.

Chill in the fridge until set (one hour) and cut into whatever size bars you like. I wrap mine individually in greaseproof paper and keep in the fridge (my boys manage to eat them in a day, and they don’t even live at home!)

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INGREDIENTS (Makes 10-12 bars) 250g mixed fruit and nuts 200g dried pitted dates Two tablespoons coconut oil Honey (only if the mixture is a little crumbly) Mixed seeds (optional)

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MENDIP TIMES

Have a “graze” night at the Tucker’s Grave Inn

New Thatchers cider

THE team at the Tucker’s Grave Inn have enjoyed such amazing feedback from their first “Tucker’s Graze” nights that they are adding extra dates throughout January.

A graze platter offers a selection of outstanding produce, sourced as locally as possible, served in the fantastic surroundings of the Old Parlour – they offer a takeaway service also – which must be booked in advance Graze nights take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays and comprise proper Somerset grub such as pork pies and scotch eggs from Witham Friary to Wyke Farm cheese, all served with Bay Tree chutney, fresh bread, crackers and nibbles.

On Friday nights, why not try one of campsite manager Prem’s delicious Nepalese curries, whilst there is also a Saturday night winter warmer, which might be a home cooked pork and cider – naturally – stew or chilli con carne?

For details, visit: www.tuckersgraveinn.co.uk

THE apples for Thatchers Cider’s newest blend all come from one single orchard, its Classics Orchard, and are part of research being undertaken by the cider maker to find the best way of planting orchards for the tastiest fruit.

The Classics is a full bodied, rich, golden cider at 8.4%, crafted from a blend of 26 different traditional apple varieties. The bittersweet and bittersharp apples are part of a trial being undertaken by Thatchers that sees these heritage apple varieties grown for the first time along wires to increase the levels of sunlight received on the fruit.

Richard Johnson, Thatchers head cider maker, said: “Apples gathered from the Classics Orchard are a true window on the rich variety of

cider’s heritage.

“With apples from our Classics Orchard raised within a few miles of Myrtle Farm, blended and packaged here at our mill, this is a cider that reflects the very heart of Somerset cider making.”

Thatchers The Classics is available price £2.35 per 500ml bottle, from Thatchers Cider Shop at Myrtle Farm, Sandford.

Details: www.thatcherscider.co.uk

Tucker’s Grave Inn – past, present and future!

We have had such amazing feedback from our Tucker’s Graze nights that we have now added extra dates through to the end of January!

It’s a great way to socialise with friends and family while enjoying our delicious platters – from handmade scotch eggs and pork pies to our cheese feast!

A takeaway option and vouchers are also available Open 2-11pm (Mon-urs), midday-11pm (Fri & Sat). midday-10pm (Sun)

Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faukland, Radstock, BA3 5XF. T: 01225 962669 E: info@tuckersgraveinn.co.uk W: www.tuckersgraveinn.co.uk PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

You can book online https://www.tuckersgraveinn.co.uk/vac or call 07882 771183 or 07976 897743

Food & Drink section.qxp_Layout 1 16/12/2021 14:50 Page 21

WILD FOOD

First and last time

With ADRIAN BOOTS

YOU may have noticed I love wild food.

But there is one wild fruit of which, shall we say, I’m just not that fond: Guelder Rose berries. Innocuous enough isn’t it?

Guelder Rose, hmm sounds like a light fragrance or a rare flower found in an overly tended formal garden. If a name could be any more misleading as a guide to the taste experience of its fruit then this

would be it.

You know when your mother said “never eat red berries”?

Well, this is one of those berries. Not because it’s poisonous, it isn’t, but you would be justified in thinking it was put on this earth to ruin your life chances – it tastes so bad. The reason for all this drama is one simple thing: BITTERNESS. Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus) is a shrub up to 4m in height found in hedgerows. Leaves have three to five divisions of the leaf lobes with irregular edges. The flowers appear in June and July and have flat top heads with the creamy inner flowers being smaller than the whiter outer flowers. The red berries appear in the autumn and can last a mild winter.

So how do you deal with all that bitterness and I’m not talking about going to a counselling session. Well, I wish this was the fix for all life’s ills and it probably could be if one tried it, but it turns out that being sweet is the key.

Away from the metaphor, sugar and a seriously long train of wagons loaded with the stuff is the solution. From one extreme to another. So if all that bitterness doesn’t put you off the subsequent trips to the dentist to treat the cavities caused by the voluminous amounts of sugar most certainly will.

I would do as the Austrians, Danes and Germans do and make Rumtopf – a mix of soft fruit fed with sugar and lots of booze, leave it alone and finally one fine day it will be ready for consumption.

Either that or it will be left at the back of the cupboard through fear of the memory of trying Guelder Rose berries for the first and last time. So I have a New Year’s resolution for you: Try something else. Here’s looking forward to a happy and healthy New Year!

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

FOOD & DRINK

GARDEN FOOD

Perfect dessert

With JAKE WHITSON

LAST year was not a great one for our cobnuts, but we still had a few hundred grams from our trees. The key factor in their fruiting (or should that be nutting?) seems to be the weather in late winter and early spring, when the catkins and inconspicuous female flowers are out. If it’s too cold or the winds too strong, you’ll get few nuts and lots of empty

shells.

Cobnuts are largely self-sterile so you either need a few different varieties for pollination or wild hazels in nearby hedgerows (which we have in abundance). Cobnuts are quite fast to come into production and you should get your first few nuts within a few years of planting.

The flavour is much more pronounced and sweeter than the nuts you buy in the shops, however home-grown nuts often dry slightly shrivelled due to their lower oil content (caused by our cooler summers).

To my mind a classic hazelnut dacquoise is just about as perfect a dessert as it gets – I’ve adapted this one from a Rick Stein recipe. To make it, first gently toast 50g hazelnuts in a medium oven until golden brown, then tip them into a tea towel and rub off the skins (I must admit this doesn’t work so well with my home-grown nuts, but I just do what I can).

Chop the nuts very finely. Next, whisk four egg whites to stiff peaks, then gradually whisk in 200g caster sugar until you have a thick glossy meringue. Fold all but a tablespoon of the nuts, divide the mixture into thirds, and spread the thirds into three 20cm circles on baking parchment.

Sprinkle the reserved nuts over one of the meringues (this will be the top one later on). Bake in a low oven for about two hours, then turn the oven off and leave them to completely dry out inside (sometimes I do meringues in my dehydrator instead which results in a completely crisp and white meringue like you’d buy in the shops).

To assemble, melt 100g dark chocolate, then fold in 150ml creme fraiche and 150ml double cream which has been whipped until just slightly thickened. Spread this mixture onto two of the meringues and top with the third. Allow to sit for an hour or two for the meringues to soften, then serve.

Absolutely delicious.

Jacob Whitson is a chef, food writer and smallholder – he divides his time between the Mendips and Pembrokeshire.

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 21

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MENDIP TIMES

FOOD & DRINK

A tr-eat for Street!

STREET hosted its first proper eat:Festivals event with dozens of traders running stalls inside and outside the Crispin Shopping Centre.

In the summer eat:Festivals, the food festival organisers, had received support from Mendip District Council to run a “Little Eat” festival in the High Street in Street as part of the pandemic business recovery initiative. Similar events were also held in Wells and Shepton Mallet.

(

g p y

y

)

Laura Wolfers, chair of Street Parish Council, with eat:Festivals organisers Bev (left) and Sarah Milner-Simonds

Father Christmas and Bubbles Sugarplum with cidermaker Todd Studley

Shoppers and stallholders said the shopping centre made an ideal indoor market venue

The Crispin Centre was busy all day

PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Father Christmas joins Harry Calvert on his preserves stall

Victoria Stent ensured dogs were not left out

Shoppers in a festive mood

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MENDIP TIMES

Unfair to doctors

Dear Mendip Times, Reading his letter in December’s Mendip Times, I was astonished and disturbed by Duncan Massey’s response to Dr Phil Hammond’s recent MT comments on the welldocumented extreme strains on GPs and Primary Care.

And, as he is a “volunteer community first responder”, I am even more astonished by his clear ignorance of the current circumstances during the pandemic. Mr Massey scurrilously suggests that GPs are lazy because they are “rewarded financially by the size of their patient list, not by the number of patients they actually treat”.

But what he conveniently forgets to mention is that the annual per-capita sum paid to each practice does not reflect the number of actual consultations or advice given for each patient, regardless of their individual needs. GP practices are paid around £93 per patient per year.

For this the patient gets full access to their surgery Monday to Friday, 8am to 6.30pm, with no limit on the number of consultations they receive throughout the year.

There are also additional provisions offering extended hours such as weekend appointments and even home visits for patients with chronic diseases.

Even when all these diverse services are provided, the total annual income per patient (including all vaccinations for Covid and ‘flu) is still only around £150 per year – just about £3 per week. When compared to the average monthly Netflix or Sky payments, GPs are hardly getting rich on their laziness as Mr Massey suggests.

Covid has impacted on services across the NHS as referral times into hospitals have doubled from 26 to 52 weeks. This causes an increase in local pressure as patients turn to their GPs for help to manage their conditions while they wait.

There is also a massive demand from patients with mental health issues.

Consequently, referrals to these services have also grown Dear Mendip Times, Are you fed up with being confined to home? Do you want exercise, fresh air, excitement and some mental stimulation?

Then why not go wild.

The Avalon Marshes are famous nationally and internationally (RSPB West Sedgemoor is a RAMSAR site protected by international law) but strangely almost unknown in places like Bath.

The marshes are the best place in Britain for herons and egrets, there are cranes (as tall as a human and with an eightfoot wing span), deer, otters badgers, marsh frogs, marsh harriers, the biggest starling murmuration in the country and miles of pathways to explore.

To give some idea of the size of the reserves RSPB Ham Wall is over four square miles and the adjacent Shapwick (Natural England) is over seven square miles.

Each has lakes, reed beds, woods and footpaths. The best bit is that these are only two of many reserves with Westhay, Grey Lake, Steart (two reserves), Ebbor Gorge and Swells Wood just a few of the others.

A bit of advice about the murmuration, go midweek because at weekends humans can try to outnumber the birds.

Okay, a little exaggeration because there are about 250,000 birds with the numbers still rising. West Sedgemoor can only

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

READER’S OPINION causing many to seek urgent GP support whilst in crisis. So there has been an overall workload increase of around 20 per cent on the previous year (excluding Covid vaccinations).

And this is before the normal winter pressures are experienced with a possible additional rise in Covid-related illness. Clinicians are now operating at capacity, with most working many more than their contractual hours.

Mr Massey also deliberately mis-attributes Dr Hammond’s use of “the grizzly expression ‘the bodies are still piling up’.” But Hammond was simply quoting an already widely circulated direct remark from the Prime Minister.

Furthermore, his description of Dr Hammond’s forthright and truthful account of all aspects of the overstretched NHS as a “politically motivated rant” is an insult not just to Dr Hammond but, by extension, to any other health professional whose opinion differs from his.

By doing so he cruelly undermines the well-earned and well-deserved trust that we all have in our NHS. Rather than criticise, unless Mr Massey has a previously undiscovered alternative solution to our current national health crisis, surely it is he who should be accused of a politically motivated rant.

But Mr Massey saves the worst of his insults to last when he claims that Dr Hammond is himself in some way part of the fact that “the current state of Primary Care is dangerous and a disgrace. You should be ashamed of your actions and not politically grandstanding about pay and conditions.”

Rather than blame the messenger – hard-working dedicated professionals like Dr Hammond – perhaps Mr Massey should ask who has been in charge for the last 11 years during which time the NHS has been comprehensibly, systematically (and some might even say deliberately) underfunded?

Ian Pitch North Somerset

be visited by pre-booking but most of the others are free.

This wealth of local wildlife has helped the Bath and District RSPB Group to be one of the oldest (over 50 years) and most successful in the country, helped by its wildlife talks, car, bus and boat trips, and free beginners’ classes. All are welcome so to learn more go to www.rspb.org.uk/groups/Bath John Yates Bath

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Christmas Fayre

CHEW MAGNA

Stalls in the courtyard Crowds around the band

Some of the children who turned on the lights

Congresbury brass band

It was a great family event

Singers from Chew Chat and local choirs

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 25

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MENDIP TIMES

The fine art of valuation

THERE are occasions when a valuation of the contents of a property is desirable; at other times it is a necessity. The former includes valuations for insurance and general inventory, the latter, valuations for inheritance tax, capital gains

tax and matrimonial division.

Tony Pinn says: “Ensuring that my clients understand the basis of the valuation they require is the starting point. An insurance value is the sum required to replace an item in the normal retail market.

“In contrast, clients are often surprised by the difference between an insurance value and the lower figures adopted for a current market valuation; defined as the value an item would achieve on the open market on a given day. This is the basis of valuation stipulated by HMRC for inheritance tax purposes.”

With more than 20 years’ experience in this role and the third generation of a family business, Toby is a trustee of the Friends of Bristol Museums, Galleries and Archives and advises the museum service on fine and applied art acquisitions.

Supported by a team of specialist consultants, Toby is proud to be first choice for many of the region’s probate solicitors who insist on the quality assurance that instructing a RICS Regulated Chartered Arts & Antiques Surveyor provides.

Toby is always happy to chat through your requirements. 0117 2517251 www.tobypinn.co.uk

Turnip Prize winner

THIS year’s Turnip Prize, Wedmore’s spoof version of the Turner, has been awarded to Panda Mick, illustrating the Covid pandemic.

Organiser, Trevor Prideaux, said: “I am delighted with the lack of effort taken to create this work.”

Turnip winner Panda Mick PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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ARTS & ANTIQUES

Busy calendar of sales planned at the Mendip Auction Rooms THE team at the Mendip Auction Rooms have released their calendar of sales for 2022 and a number of new, exciting changes have been made.

The previously regular Victorian and Later Effects sales have now become Interiors & Collectables Sales with the monthly sales of Fine Art and Antiques continuing.

There will be sales with specialist sections in Militaria, Silver, Jewellery and Modern Design. The twice-yearly popular sales of Sporting items, Fine Wines and Spirits are continuing.

In response to requests from clients, the team are introducing sales of Classic Cars, Motorcycles and Automobilia with the first sale scheduled for April 30th.

Tom Killen said: “We are fortunate to have expertise within our team to be able to provide advice and conduct these sales. The auction rooms provide a great venue where vehicles can be displayed properly.

“Neil, our dedicated photographer, has a huge level of experience in photographing cars and can’t wait for the first sale. If anyone is interested in entering cars or motorcycles in this sale, please do get in touch.”

Are you looking to sell items in our sales? Valuations can be undertaken on a drop-in basis at the auction rooms between 10am and 3pm each weekday and Killens have professional valuers and experts on hand to advise.

Alternatively, valuers are able to conduct free home visits.

Contact the team at Killens on 01749 840770 or email enquiries@mendipauctionrooms.co.uk for further assistance

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 27

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MENDIP TIMES

Robert’s legacy

Andrew "Bill" Bailey and churchwarden Andrew Hillman

THE memory and talent of the late Robert Bailey, who was Pensford-born and bred, lives on in the vast collection of his photos, artefacts and other Pensford related material, as well as his paintings, some of which now adorn the walls of many Pensford residents.

People were able to acquire these by visiting the Christmas market held at All Saints church, where members of Pensford Local History Group had a very successful stall.

From over 150 paintings and drawings, donated by Robert’s son Andrew and his family, they sold nearly 50 percent raising £1,091 for All Saints’ Church and the Pensford Local History Group.

The history group is also making good progress in archiving the Robert Bailey Pensford collection of photos, slides, cinefilm and artefacts.

Andrew, said: “Dad had always had a love of Pensford and of its characters.”

History group member, Lyndsay Cooper, said: “The fact that many of Robert’s works of art now grace so many homes in Pensford and further afield is a wonderful testament to Robert and thanks go to everyone who purchased from us."

An updated catalogue can be found at URL http://www.publow-with-pensford-pc.gov.uk/.../bailey...

Details: pensfordhistorygroup@gmail.com

This is me – four stories on film

Robin and his illustrations

A FROME-based charity has released four new films exploring the personal stories of people with learning disabilities.

The films, which were produced with support from OpenStoryTellers and funding from Somerset County Council, celebrate the lives of four people - Clemma, Katie, Robin and Joe - who have a learning disability and live in Somerset.

All four films, which explore themes of disability, equality, and diversity, were produced in collaboration with the interview subjects, who were involved in film making, production, and creative illustration and animation.

Robin Meader, who illustrated three of the films, said: “I joined OpenStoryTellers in 2004 and became a self-employed artist in 2010. Last year I helped to launch Pigeon Productions because I love making art and films. I have learning difficulties and want people to understand that we have our own lives, our own memories and friendships in the outside world.

“We don’t just sit at home, we achieve lots of amazing things! I want to share stories about our world and the rights of people with learning disabilities and autism.”

Alex MacNeil, director at OpenStoryTellers said: “We are thrilled to release these films on behalf Clemma, Katie, Robin and Joe. They showcase the phenomenal creativity of people with learning disabilities and power of storytelling for all of us.

“These stories are all unique to each person who tells them, reflecting what matters them, what it’s like to be them and what they each wanted to share with the wider world.

Each person had artistic control over the process and the opportunity to collaborate with disabled and non-disabled artists.

“Pigeon Productions is a new wing of our charity and made these films. It is made up of artists, illustrators, storytellers, poets and musicians. We are proud to say that this project also provided paid employment for five people with a learning disability.

“We hope these film will encourage other people to explore their own personal stories. The creative arts are vital and stories are what make us human.”

For details, visit: https://www.openstorytellers.org.uk/

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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Fine art sale beats expectations

CLEVEDON Salerooms held their Winter Specialist Fine Art Sale on Thursday, November 25th.

Lively bidding was in evidence throughout With the day with CHRIS YEO consistently strong prices, a sale total well over expectations, and an 89 percent selling rate from 600 lots on offer, bolstered by significant consignments from properties in Bristol, North Somerset and the Mendips.

With Christmas just around the corner, seasonal sparkle was much in evidence in the jewellery section which opened proceedings. Leading the pack was a stunning Edwardian sapphire and diamond necklace. Consigned by a Bristol vendor, it came with an equally sparkling provenance, having remained in the family for whom it was originally made.

Clevedon Salerooms’ valuer Chris Yeo made the trip to London to have the piece

analysed by a gemologist, so that bidders had the added assurance of a recent laboratory test certificate which confirmed that the outstanding clarity of its sapphires was wholly natural. Such assurances served it well on the day, and after some spirited bidding the hammer finally dropped at an impressive £14,000.

The same price was also the double estimate result for a superb oil of sunflowers by Bristol favourite Mary Fedden, purchased directly from the artist herself and consigned from a Clifton townhouse, along with the highest-selling lot of the day, Deux roses, a small oil on canvas by renowned French Impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919).

It was last sold over 20 years ago in London and had the accompanying confirmation from the Wildenstein Institute verifying it as a genuine Renoir. The source of much pre-sale excitement, it sold to a collector in the room for £38,000.

With 2022 on the horizon, Clevedon Salerooms are gearing up for an exciting

ARTS & ANTIQUES

Mary Fedden RA (1915-2012) - Oil on canvas – “Sunflowers”

year of Fine Art and Interiors auctions, as well as increasing their regular free valuation days at the saleroom, which will run every Monday (except Bank Holidays), together with specialist jewellery days remaining every third Tuesday and also an expanded number of outside valuation events in Bristol and in Wells, where the auctioneers will have an increased presence.

Please visit their website www.clevedonsalerooms.com for more details

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 29

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MENDIP TIMES

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Tribute to Covid heroes

Lanterns and lights

JACKY and David Chalk, who worked as volunteers at the height of Covid have been honoured as local heroes by being invited to switch on the Christmas tree in the centre of Radstock.

The scene in Frome town centre

RADSTOCK

Jacky and David Chalk joined the mayor of Radstock, Rupert Bevan, and Father Christmas to switch on the tree

FROME

HUNDREDS of lanterns filled Frome town centre as part of the Christmas lights celebrations.

Light the Night worked with the local community, families, schools, and artists to make the stunning creations which were paraded down Bath Street to the Christmas tree switch-on at the Boyle Cross.

The event raised nearly £1,000 for Fair Frome and their work supporting people in need, and the Big Christmas Get Together which for the last ten years has provided people with a meal on Christmas Day.

Madeleine and Gerald, who live near the miner’s wheel, have decorated their property to raise funds for the RUH Forever Friends appeal

PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Mayor of Frome, Andy Wrintmore, surprised his predecessor “Lockdown Mayor” Anita Collier by inviting her up to the traditional spot on the balcony of the George Hotel for the countdown

(Photographs by Chris Bailey Photography)

Festive fun: Tilly the dog

Page 31 January.qxp_Layout 1 16/12/2021 15:00 Page 1

Galhampton Shop & Country Store

Animal Feeds and Bedding Timber Supplies Tools | Hardware | Gardening Workwear | Logs and Gas Local Food | Home Essentials

Open 7 days a week Mon-Sat 7.30am – 5.30pm | Sun 10am – 4pm 01963 440464

Family-run, rural country store on A359 between Castle Cary and Sparkford

Fir Tree Business Park, High Road, Galhampton, Somerset, BA22 7BH sales@galhamptoncountrystore.co.uk

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INTERNET

Tips to speed up your iPad

With NICK SPARKS

Keep your iPad up to date Updating your iPad helps ensure that your applications run at optimal performance.

In every firmware version, there are bug fixes, features and many more that could help resolve issues that slow down your iPad. You can check through your Settings > General > Software update.

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

Remove unwanted apps

Removing unwanted apps can help saving your iPad’s space and on top of that, it may improve your iPad’s reading speed. Tap and hold on an unwanted app until it wobbles and a X appears – tap on that, and then confirm that you want to delete it. Some can’t be deleted as they are part of the settings, so they won’t have an X. Close unused processes or apps

At times some apps would remain active on your iPad even after you’ve closed it with your Home button. Any app that remains active can be a burden to your iPad. Double tap your Home button and the open apps will appear in a grid on the screen.

Swipe them up and they will close, but will still open when you want them.

Clear Browser Cache In fact, saving browsing caches allows faster browsing, but as times goes on, it may become overloaded and cluttered.

Open Settings, scroll down and then select Safari from the left pane and then tap on Clear Cache. It is advisable to also clear the browsing History and Cookies on your iPad. Unlike your PC, you don’t need to defrag your iPad, as it uses a different system.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.

Submitted for I.T. for the Terrified. Although we have ceased our one to one tuition, a number of us will continue with this column under the heading “I.T. for the Terrified" to keep the name alive. This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. I.T. for the Terrified itfortheterrified@btconnect.com or it4ttcvh@gmail.com

PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

ACROSS 1 The County will Fly the Flag next year and institute and dedicate a day to the county – what will it be called? (8,3) 9 Reduce the strength, effect or value of (9) 10 Pierrot is a French name for him (5) 11 Insect having forceps-like pincers in the tail (6) 12 Compressed air tool for applying paint (5,3) 13 Sermons are delivered from here (6) 15 Excessive and insincere praise (8) 17 Peel off the front for a fish (3) 18 Having qualities traditionally associated with women, especially delicacy and prettiness (8) 19 Completely expends (4,2) 21 Nickname of the football team in Street (8) 23 A short but fast run (6) 26 Old judge to make a speech (5) 27 Acting without forethought, on the spur of the moment (9) 28 The date 1 across will be held (8,3)

DOWN 1 A radical reorganisation (5-2) 2 A machine that provides power (5) 3 Performance gets diner into trouble (anagram) (9) 4 Test that used to be in the morning (4) 5 A legal document executed by one party only (4,4) 6 A plant of the agave family with sword like leaves (5) 7 Rental possession of land or property (7) 8 Conference or annual meeting of the like-minded (8) 14 Anagram: “e-mail ban.” Clue – butter (4,4) 15 Charge for a service (3) 16 Chuck Yeager died just over a year ago. What occupation made him famous? (4,5) 17 Enliven, invigorate (8) 18 Industrial unit, plant or works (7) 20 Decay, rot or decompose (7) 22 City on the river Meuse in Belgium (5) 24 Fool changes last letter for turn of phrase (5) 25 The heaviest of the swords used for fencing (4) Clues in italics are cryptic By greendandelion

This month’s solution can be found on page 84

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MENDIP TIMES

More challenges ahead for many small businesses ALTHOUGH it seems the trials of the last couple of years are far from over, it appears that the next few years will present small businesses with yet more enforced administrative changes to cope with whilst many are still recovering from and rebuilding after the effects of the pandemic.

Making Tax Digital (MTD) has been operating for a few years now for most businesses registered for VAT and will apply to all VAT registered businesses from April 2022. MTD for income tax and corporation tax will follow over the next couple of years.

Although there have been several delays already and further postponements may yet be announced, all businesses and private landlords need to be aware of the proposed changes.

The main

elements of MTD are the requirement to maintain “digital” (computerised) records and the submission of quarterly returns to HMRC in addition to the current single annual return.

Businesses and landlords with a turnover below £10,000 may be exempt from the rules to begin with but for many small businesses, changes in record keeping procedures will be required and more tax submissions will be needed every year.

Although still under review, some businesses may also be faced with the prospect of altering their existing accounting period end dates if plans to standardise tax periods are followed through.

Whilst there are many advantages to keeping computerised accounting records, the very thought of such a change is horrifying for many business owners – perhaps even more so for those more mature in years and used to doing things a certain way.

We are assisting many clients wishing to move to MTD compliant computerised systems in preparation for the new legislation on the horizon and we would encourage all those affected to not leave their preparations to the last minute.

Rod Podger Underwood Lamb

Rod can be contacted on 01275 332612 or by email rod@ulco.com

PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • JANAURY 2022

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BUSINESS

Helping your children buy a property – beware of Inheritance Tax

GIFTING property funds to your children or grandchildren can be a rewarding exercise and with the growth of property prices parents in particular have been playing an increasing role in bankrolling their children to help them get into the property market. However there are potential traps which could risk unnecessarily gifting cash to the taxman.

The seven-year rule Helping children onto the property ladder requires careful consideration about the inheritance tax consequences. Gifting is subject to the "seven-year rule", under which a gift made by a parent or grandparent will be free of inheritance tax if it is made seven years or more before their death.

There is no lifetime limit to how much can be given away. So, in theory, regardless of the amount of funds that a child or grandchild needs to purchase their first home, it can be provided by family members, either in instalments or all at once, without incurring an inheritance tax bill and subject to the

seven-year survivorship rule.

Each individual is taxed at a rate of 40pc on all their assets above a threshold £325,000. There is an additional allowance related to the family home . If the nil-rate band is used up and a donor gifts above the allowance, and dies within seven years, IHT is due on a sliding scale based on the period of the donors survival between making the gift and his or her subsequent demise. So for instance if you survive for three or four years the rate of tax on the gift is 32% , six to seven years 8% and seven or more 0% But if gifts and a final estate amounts to less than £325,000, there is no inheritance tax to pay.

Also Individuals can gift a total of £3,000 worth of assets per tax year.

Where this annual exemption is not used in one tax year it can be carried forward for one year only to increase the exempt amount to £6,000.

Marriage gifts Another useful exemption are gifts made

to people who are due to get married or enter into a civil partnership. A parent can gift their child £5,000 on or shortly before their wedding day and it will be tax free. Grandparents can gift a grandchild or great-grandchild £2,500 and for anyone else the threshold is £1,000.

It is always sensible to seek professional advice on these issues.

EDWARD LYONS

Email: enquiries@lyonslaw.co.uk Website: www.lyonslaw.co.uk Telephone: 01275 332168

An established and progressive law firm providing a personal and cost-effective legal service for commercial and individual clients. l Family & Divorce Law l Co-habitation disputes l Inheritance disputes l Wills and Living Wills l Powers of Attorney l Administration of Trusts l Property – sales and purchases OFFICES AT: Chew Magna 01275 332168

Westbury-on-Trym 0117 950 6506

Kingswood 0117 967 5252 MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 35

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MENDIP TIMES

BUSINESS

ECATCHER MOL

NO MOLE NO FEE Telephone 01761 417100 www.mendipmolecatcher.co.uk

We’re more about can’s an can’ts and whatever you’re in, a warm welcome awaits you.

See www.petrupaddocks.co.uk for more information and to find your ‘get away from it a” adventure.

Bespoke garden buildings in traditional or contemporary style HOME OFFICE • STUDIO SPACE LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION • ADDITIONAL LIVING SPACE Please call or email for a no-obligation discussion of your requirements

www.avocetpoducts.co.uk/banwell/ email info@avocetproducts.co.uk Tel 01934 824092 PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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MENDIP TIMES

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

P & C Logs Call Phil on 07734 098323, or Colleen on 07785 250033 or on Evenings 01934 741941

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PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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BUSINESS

Does your home need more space? Or light?

START the new year with a FREE no obligation consultation from JLS Design Services. Their highly experienced team of architectural designers will offer impartial and creative advice and then provide a quotation for your vision to be converted into high-quality plans for your chosen builders to follow.

Lantern light love JLS offers a trusted and highly efficient

service, helping clients with building projects; from extensions and conversions through to conservatories and new builds.

“We have a lot of enquiries about lantern roof lights,” says Ken Coleman, Chartered Surveyor & Architectural Designer of JLS Design Services. “They really do invite a huge amount of natural light into a home and make a room feel exceptionally spacious.”

JLS will shed some light on what consents you need Whatever the size or complexity, you need to ensure that you have the best design and you want to be confident that you have met building regulations and have all necessary planning consents.

JLS has established sound working relationships with all local authorities in the area, enabling them to fully support you in the submission of your plans for planning and building control approval/s, if they are required.

Located in Yatton, North Somerset Based at their office on Yatton High Street they welcome you to get in touch to discuss your ideas and start transforming your home improvement dreams in to a reality.

WISHING YOU A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM JLS DESIGN SERVICES!

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 39

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MENDIP TIMES

BUSINESS

An award-winning riding school in the heart of Mendip

Return to riding – a New Year Resolution!

We all know it can be a bit of a challenge to get back in the saddle if you’ve not ridden for a while – but we have the answers!

H Ride and coffee mornings – Wednesdays, 10am H Adult group lessons – ursdays, 5.30-6.30pm Call or email us for more details

Divoky Riding School, Manor Farm, Downhead, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4LG www.divoky.co.uk • Email: info@divoky.co.uk T: 01749 880233 • M: 07971 207037

PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

QUALITY BRICK PAVING VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES NEW COLOURS

BUILDING LANDSCAPING WATER GARDENS GARDENING

WINTER HOURS: Weekdays 7.30am-4.30pm • Sat 9am-2pm • Sun 10am-2pm

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Property update: use 2022 to open new doors

PROPERTY

Spring has always come out on top as one of the best times to sell, but with demand still very high from hopeful buyers, it’s worth considering marketing your home earlier in 2022 to beat the rush, says Cathy Morris-Adams, managing partner, Lodestone Property.

AS we end the year in such a unique situation, waiting for those picture-perfect moments when the sun is out and blossom is on the trees could mean you are missing out on potential buyers; and with so much competition right now, being savvy about the moment, might just be the key to your next dream home!

Wondering why?

• Demand still outweighs supply, so great prices are still being achieved.

• With the conveyancing process taking slightly longer than usual due to the demand on the market, many parents looking to take up scholarship opportunities and ensure a place at their desired school, are starting their search earlier than usual to ensure that they are able to move to their new home in good time.

• The ongoing pandemic and potential restrictive measures mean people are still looking to find property with space to work from home and enjoy the outside.

If you are considering selling your house, it is important that

Home truths: Cathy Morris-Adams, managing partner, Lodestone Property

you get the right advice from agents who are local, know the local market and take the time to accompany you on your property journey to ensure you’re well placed to find your next home.

Top Tip: Ensure your Agent has both a sales and lettings team, who work hand in hand, meaning they are well equipped to help with every eventuality as the sales progresses.

Should you wish to learn more about Lodestone Property’s thoughts on the current market, find out what your house could be worth or simply receive advice on the best move for you, Lodestone Property have selling and letting experts across Somerset and Dorset who can help. Visit: www.lodestoneproperty.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 41

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MENDIP TIMES

Santa arrives

WINSCOMBE

Alison Hughes was promoting the Winscombe and Sandford Grand Jubilee Festival on June 4th

Inner Wheel of Wrington Vale members (l to r) Yvonne Greenwood, Jacky Batchelor and Kate Anklay

Fun on the waltzer Phoebe, seven, Milly, five, and Thomas, three

Volunteers thanked

PEASEDOWN ST. JOHN

PEASEDOWN St John’s new community centre, The Hive, said “thank you” to its loyal team of volunteers by putting on a free Christmas party for them.

Centre manager, Lucy Day, said: “We couldn’t do what we do without our wonderful volunteers. From picking up the phone to welcoming visitors as they enter the building, our volunteers go above and beyond!”

Details: www.thehivepsj.org 01761 360021

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

PENSFORD

Some of those looking for bargains

PENSFORD Christmas market, held at the Rising Sun by the village school’s PTA, raised £220 for the school.

PTA chair, Jessica Cox, said: “It went really well, with over 30 stalls selling a variety of goods, all varied from vegan friendly soap to cakes and bakes, crystals and knitted items.”

School head, Warrick Barton, said: “It was great to see so many people from the Pensford School community past and present.”

Alison Patey and Elaine Davidson with their fundraising Santa’s Squares competition

WEDMORE Wedmore First School choir

Wedmore First School PTA members

Joanne Munyard and Anne Newman on the tombola stall

Sophie Luxon and son Oscar, aged two

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 43

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MENDIP TIMES

HISTORY

Village remembers Polish air crew

THE parish of Long Ashton was the scene of an air crash on November 21st, 1944, when a Hadley Page Halifax Bomber, LL126, flown by a Polish air crew, crashed in the field behind the church, sadly killing all seven crew.

A plaque was installed on the churchyard wall in 1984 by the Severnside Aviation Society and since 1999 a service has been held with members of the Polish Community whenever November 21st falls on a Sunday, as it did this year.

As usual the church service concluded with a procession from the church to the memorial, with Royal British Legion members and the church choir leading the Polish Standards and dignitaries including the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, the Hon. Polish Consul, Polish military and RAF representatives.

The vicar, the Rev James Harris, led the short Remembrance Service at the Polish Memorial. Many Polish scouts, guides and brownies attended and ten of them, together with an air cadet, acted as wreath carriers for the VIPs One of Long Ashton’s scout masters, Duncan Venison, played the Last Post and Reveille and the church choir led

Polish guides and brownies from the Bristol Unit

the singing of the Polish National Anthem The Polish crew are listed on the new parish war memorial, opposite the Old School, where the 104 local servicemen who died in wars are remembered.

The Polish Air Force Association Standard was present at the dedication and unveiling ceremony held on April

Polish military attaches and Polish scouts at the war memorial

12th this year, which was attended by three Polish military attaches.

After the service on November 21st the Long Ashton Branch of the Royal British Legion welcomed all present to a reception and buffet at the community centre.

David Addis, Secretary, Long Ashton Royal British Legion

Sounding the Last Post

The Rev James Harris led the service

PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • JANAURY 2022

Polish scouts and guides acting as wreath carriers

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WILDLIFE

Sorry about the dustbin lid . . .

IT was New Year’s Day 1970 and my parents had bought me a huge, yet at the time, “portable” tape recorder for Christmas. I could barely lift it, yet I would use this recorder to go out and record the sounds of nature and, in particular, birds.

The microphone that came with the recorder

By CHRIS was, by today’s standard, pretty poor SPERRING MBE quality, yet I had a trick up my sleeve to improve it. Recording nature sounds was as big a thing 50 years ago as taking pictures of nature is today.

The trick with the microphone was to find a way of forcing the sound of the bird calling in front of me to become amplified and more directional; the problem was that a bird making a sound would be mixed in with other sounds all around the microphone making it uni-directional.

The bird I was trying to record could therefore be lost to the surround sound of everything else. I had read about the parabolic reflector meaning, of course, a reflective surface that would channel sound into the microphone. These could be bought but were as expensive as a telephoto lens of today so I made one, using a metal surface in the shape of my parents’ metal dustbin lid!

I hit the lid with a big hammer to make it even more coneshaped and drilled a hole in the middle for the microphone to be attached. It worked brilliantly and I proudly left my parents’ house and began to record nature.

I remember well that first trip out recording and the very first bird I recorded was a great tit (both contact calls and full song).

Song thrush and mistle thrush followed and also the flight calls of mixed finches; in particular greenfinches, which were seemingly everywhere in the 1970s.

Now at the end of 2021 armed with a powerful yet readily available iPhone that records incredible quality sound and doesn’t need a parabolic reflector, I did exactly the same walk.

Whilst the area I walked was still green lanes, hedges and small woodland, the once open farmland that surrounded this area is now houses and busy roads.

I walked for roughly the same time as I did 51 years previously with only a few weeks’ difference, the weather was almost identical being mild overcast and damp but not raining.

Song thrushes appear to have disappeared from the area where I live

A wren – not so common half a century ago?

Now it’s possible the next bit may seem very gloomy, because in 2021 the song and mistle thrush had long gone from this area.

Also, not a single finch was recorded, the once common greenfinches were silent by their absence, blackbirds were still present as was that first bird recorded back in 1970, the great tit, but even these were hard to record as their lower numbers reduced their need to make sound.

I did hear a thin single note from a long-tailed tit, then another, and suddenly a whole group of them appeared in front of me; interestingly these birds didn’t figure in my walk at all in 1970. Neither did the next bird, a collared dove and, much to my delight on this walk, I recorded not one, but three wrens in full song: neither did I recall them from my original walk.

All of this, of course, is what I would call snapshot observations, same place almost same time and whilst a snapshot may give us some indications of what’s going on, it’s detailed continual observations, with detailed notes taken every day for many years, that begins to reveal real trends taking place.

A quarter of the UK’s birds are now on what’s called The Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) red list, meaning a 50% or more decline. A lot of these birds were so common in my youth, yet so scarce now, whilst a small yet interesting group of other birds were so scarce in my youth, and seemingly more available to be observed today.

I’m often reminded how gloom and doom appears to be the message constantly pushed by we conservationists leaving many people feeling helpless. But as I point out, there are some species doing better than 50 years ago but it’s a fact that there is an increasing and worryingly long list of those not doing so well.

These problems/issues (call them whatever you want), are solvable; we have the knowledge and the passion and the will to constantly learn and adapt to new ways and ideas based on good solid long-term science.

The difference that needs to be made for real ground-up action for nature to thrive and survive begins and ends with you and you within your own communities.

Have a great 2022! l PS. I know it’s 50 years late, but sorry about the dustbin lid, mum.

Contact me on 07799 413918 or email me at: Chris.Sperring@hawkandowltrust.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 45

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MENDIP TIMES

Beckington walk

AN easy New Year circle in East Mendip going through the wonderful parkland of Orchardleigh near Frome. It starts at the old village of Beckington and then drops down, crosses the River Frome and heads through fields to Orchardleigh. Then we follow the drive past the house and golf club with fine views over the estate.

Walking is mainly on good paths, but there are quite a few stiles – most of them ok for dogs. We do have to retrace our steps over one short section. There is a popular café deli, Mes Amis, and the 16th century Woolpack Inn in the village centre.

At the end is my alternative loop in Orchardleigh taking in the unique little church on an island and then going round the edge of the lake. But only attempt this in dry conditions or if you have wellies as there is a 20-yard section that is very, very muddy!

PARK: In the centre of the village near the Woolpack. The village streets are wide so there is plenty of parking.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Beckington is architecturally a very attractive village, steeped in history. It is mentioned in the Domesday Book. Preindustrial revolution, it became a place of some significance and wealth as a result of the wool trade. Evidence of the clothiers' importance can be seen by the clothiers' marks in the church and by the large houses in the village main street. Along the side streets are old stone workers' and artisans' cottages.

START: From the Woolpack, cross Warminster Road and go up Bath Road (not well signed). Immediately pass a house called the Malt House and continue up with Beckington Motors on the other side. Pass Mes Amis café on the right.

Continue up a little more and take the first turning left, Mill Lane.

1. MILL LANE Follow this along and drop down all the way to just before a bend and a B&B sign.

Here leave the lane and take the public footpath track which bears up left. Go through a large metal gate and then another gate and start to get good views down right over the River Frome to Orchardleigh. Leave the concrete track as it bends right and go straight ahead down to a stile. Follow a short fenced track, go through a kissing gate.

2 and 8. BECKINGTON LOOP Reach a sign for Beckington Loop where we return later. Now go straight on through the metal pedestrian gate and along the bottom edge of the field to a stile. Follow the path through woodland and alongside a pheasant enclosure. After another gate carry on along the grassy swathe to a stile at the end.

Cross onto a drive leading to an

industrial unit and go straight over to a stile. Then follow the hard track along. As it bends right, leave and go ahead to gates and fencing and a stile. Cross this parklike field and bear over to the right, going over a stile by a gate. You have joined the long distance path, the Macmillan Way. Go over a crossing track and head to the other side of the field. There is a pill box over right.

3. RIVER Cross a footbridge and then bear over right to a stile in the field corner onto a small lane. Cross to the footpath opposite over a stile. Reach a marker post where you return later. Go ahead (not left) still on the Macmillan Way. Pass a large oak tree on your left and continue on. Pass another splendid oak. Reach a drive and go straight over. There is an attractive bridge on the right. Arrive at a crossing track and turn right all the way, through a gate to a lane. Follow it left uphill.

4. LULLINGTON Come into the pretty, tiny village of Lullington and turn left. You may like to go straight over and visit the church, but our route stays left, passing the village pump on your right. Soon go by Gloucester Farm and on the bend, go ahead into a field (not left) and follow the left hedge straight on. Further on, continue to follow the left edge, and carry on into another field. Maintain direction, climbing slightly all the way until you cross into the golf course at Orchardleigh.

5. GOLF COURSE Take care as you follow the arrow across, between two mounds and further on pass a pond left. Pass Tee 2. Reach a marker post on the drive.

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WALKING

4.6 miles, or 5 miles (loop round lake). OS Explorer 142 Shepton Mallet & Mendip Hills East). The village is right on the edge of the map. OS grid reference: ST801518, postcode BA11 6SP

This huge estate comprises 500 acres, the main mansion, several other converted buildings, the island church, plus a golf course. Owned by the Champney family since the Norman Conquest, the estate was acquired by William Duckworth who built the house. It is an example of the briefly fashionable combination of Elizabethan and French styles – "nouveau-riche”. The last Duckworth sold the Estate in 1986 to an old Frome family, the Vincents who have had it extensively renovated and developed into a premier wedding venue.

For the optional route to the 13th century church on an island, see instructions at the end. Or you could simply go down to the church and back here (a third of a mile each way).

6. ORCHARDLEIGH HOUSE So for the drier route, turn left on the drove soon passing Orchardleigh House. Don’t turn right towards the house, just continue on to the golf club. Start to get good views right over the estate. Stay to the right in the direction of Orchardleigh Castle, another wedding venue.

As you approach an estate lodge house, turn right off the drive down the fence. Go through a large wooden gate, where you will get a glimpse of the listed Palladian boathouse.

7. BRIDGE Go on, over a bridge to the edge of the lake. Immediately turn left and follow the stream. There is a short drop and a footbridge on the way. Continue to the end of the woodland where the path turns right.

It can be a little overgrown along here in parts. Follow it through woodland to Lullington Lane.

8. LULLINGTON LANE Just before the lane follow the path left.

Continue on this, paralleling the lane until you reach the marker post where you were earlier. We retrace our steps for a while: Go right, cross the road and turn right in the field. It’s over the footbridge and straight on, over a track and into the field opposite.

Head on bearing slightly left to reach the stile, gates and fencing. Follow the drive on. Cross the stile at the end by the cattle

grid. Then it’s across to another stile to join the grassy swathe. Keep on in this direction, coming alongside the pheasant enclosure. Then walk along the bottom of the field to the metal pedestrian gate and signed Loop. (End of retrace).

9. BECKINGTON LOOP Simply follow this up right until you drop down steps and over a footbridge. Cross a stile and the path leads uphill to join Stubbs Lane (not marked as such here).

10. STUBBS LANE Turn left to come back into the village and turn left back down to the Woolpack.

Optional route to the church From the drive, bend left and take the drive down all the way to a lodge house. Turn left to the beautiful little church.

This 13th century church on an island at the end of the man-made lake, has the grave of the poet Henry Newbolt and his wife who was a member of the Duckworth family and loved this place. This simple place, candle-lit, is a favourite place for weddings.

Go back out of the church gate and immediately turn right through a metal gate and follow the path along with the lake on your right. The path bends right at the lake end and then left. Further along here is the very difficult muddy section. Continue to the end and turn left on the track to come back to the bridge where you join the main route at 7. Bridge.

The Woolpack, 01373 831244 Mes Amis, café deli 01373 830723

MENDIP TIMES • JANUAURY 2022 • PAGE 47

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MENDIP TIMES

West Countryman’s diary

JANUARY and the start of a New Year. I am glad that I make no resolutions for the coming year. None of us knows what it holds, but can only With LES hope we have some DAVIES MBE respite from this constantly mutating virus that affects every part of our lives. We will end up living with it I’m sure and in doing so will become used to the steps we have to take to protect ourselves and those around us. January is named after the Roman God Janus, who is portrayed as a twoheaded figure.

One looks to the future and the other retrospectively. That’s what a lot of us will be doing on New Year’s Eve and many will being seeing in the new and letting out the old, in whatever way suits them.

I am not a New Year person, but I do not deny the joy that others may have in its celebration. I work on the basis that it’s going to come along anyway, whether I am there to see it in or not. So that’s enough misery and “Bah Humbug” stuff.

I am certainly hoping the next year will bring joy and happiness!

Out in the countryside nothing much will change in the field, hedgerow or wood. Those that live there will still continue the battle for survival and think about their preparation for spring and the start of a real New Year.

There is still a lot of talk concerning global warming and its effect on us.

Taking down my copy of Edith Holden’s book, The Country Diary Of An Edwardian Lady, I find she makes comment of picking daisies and seeing a yew tree in blossom on the 29th of the month 1903.

Primroses are also mentioned as being in flower. “Ploughing, hedging and ditching are going on everywhere,” she wrote, “This has been a wonderfully mild January.”

Januarys haven’t always been so mild.

Back in Anglo-Saxons times, more than a thousand years back, winters weren’t quite so kind. The ground would often be frozen and little work could be done on the land. Most livestock would have been slaughtered because there was insufficient food to feed them.

In a pagan world of superstition and uncertainty anything that made the gods look upon you with favour was seen to be a good thing. This is where the Wassail ceremony that we know today comes in.

More associated with apple orchards than anything else, it was a pagan insurance policy to ensure a good crop. The words Waes-Hale literally mean Health be unto you in Anglo-Saxon.

As ever these old ceremonies are becoming more and more popular. I am doing the Master of Ceremony duties at seven events this year. Such a ceremony had another reason and that was to bring a little cheer into a cold, dark winter world. This was very much in line with the old pagan winter feast where the roots of Christmas became embedded.

It is also interesting to find that our tradition of singing Christmas Carols has its origins in House Wassailing, a blessing of the domestic residence from the same era. Perhaps we should be asking the question of not: “What did the Romans do for us” but “What did the Anglo-Saxons do for us?”

Parties and drinking possibly? There is bound to be a local celebration near to you, so go along and grab a bit of seasonal cheer, (unless we are all locked down by then)!

I’m going to leave you with some thoughts for a New Year from a real household name, Patience Strong. Born and christened Winifred Emma May in 1907, her rise to fame began in 1935 when she approached the editor of the Daily Mirror newspaper about publishing a regular series of her poems.

The editor asked her to come back again with 18 poems and a pseudonym . . . and so it all began. Her thoughts and poems were published in the Daily

OUTDOORS

Mirror’s “quiet corner” throughout the war years. By 1946 she was appearing in what was then the Sunday Pictorial, soon to become the Sunday Mirror.

Other publications to print her works were Woman’s Own magazine and a quarterly publication called This England.

I have some old copies of This England from the 1970s, which seemed to portray a view of the British countryside that was 50 years out of date!

All flat hats, horses and pitchforks. Any way enough of my view! Here’s one of her poems that seems somewhat relevant at the moment, with our own troubled times.

A Year Is Born We wish each other happiness as ever New Year chimes. We want it for ourselves, good days and happy times – but do we make too much of it and is there too much stress – laid on the importance of this thing called happiness?

A happy and a bright New Year; the customary phrase! Happiness is sweet . . . but in these grim and troubled days – may it be a useful year, a year of work well done; a busy year of goals attained and moral battles won.

It’s a strange and holy moment when from the belfry towers – the clocks strike out the solemn message of the midnight hours. A year is born . . . O pray for wisdom as it comes to birth – to do your share and build God’s kingdom here upon the earth. l Finally I have included a picture of our well know robin. In the Wassail ceremony he is said to represent the good spirits and it is he who the cider soaked toast hung in the apple tree is said to placate.

A very happy New Year to you all and may it be everything you could ever wish for you and your loved ones!

PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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MENDIP TIMES

New Year resolutions for gardeners

A HAPPY New Year to you all.

Snowdrops are already pushing up through the soil and all plants are preparing for the new growing season ahead. Let’s take time to resolve to care for our precious planet while all plants are doing their bit as well in our gardening activities. Here are my With MARY suggestions for how you can help.

PAYNE MBE 1. Try not to impulse buy – we all succumb to a good-looking plant with rarely a thought as to where the plant would like to grow. Our thoughts tend go to where we would like it to grow. It is far better to make a list of what would be happy in the gap that you have, with regards to shade, water availability and size.

2. Try to use bee friendly plants – we must all become very conscious that our pollinators are so important to us and that is not only honey bees. Bumble bees, and many other insects, also play their part. Plants that have open single flowers are preferred by bees and insects, although bees will bite a hole in the tube of some flowers to access the nectar. Some plants are able to produce more nectar after a visitation by a bee ready for the next visitor. Choose a selection of plants to give you both pleasure, and the bees and insects pleasure in every month of the year.

3. Use British raised plants from a local nursery if possible.

So many plants are imported from the EU that the chance of bringing in a serious pest or disease is very likely. Every plant now has a plant passport, so its origins can be traced should a major problem arise. Bedding plants start life as a seed raised in one country, the seed is sown in another, and tiny plug plants raised in another, and sent to the UK to be grown on to garden centre size, not a good carbon footprint for a plant that itself is contributing so much.

4. Avoid pesticides, where possible, by better observation and early intervention by leaf picking or squashing the odd pest.

Most UK growers under glass or tunnels are using integrated pest management which involves using insect friendly pesticides, only if absolutely necessary, and supplementing with a wide range of biological controls now available to them (and us).

5. Try to use peat-free composts. Finding a good multipurpose potting compost that is peat free is proving difficult.

Peat was the perfect growing medium, but we are all keen to reduce peat use as peat bogs are fantastic carbon sinks and many are now being re- flooded and re-seeded with sphagnum moss. The inclusion of composted green waste by some manufacturers has proved controversial. Unlike peat it is not a stable, uniform product and has led to nutrient deficiencies and, in my own experience, classic hormone weedkiller damage. Coir (coconut fibre) is often used, but should we really be importing this by-product? Wood pulp, made from old pallets is proving popular, which is why you are seeing small toadstools popping up in your pots.

Composted bark is another useful peat substitute. Can you reuse your old compost? So long as you have not had an attack of vine weevil larvae, then I suggest you use the compost from your summer pots and grow your spring flowering bulbs in it. After that it can be used as a soil improver on your garden.

6. Try to use bio-degradable netting for beans. Taking down PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Bug hotel

the runner beans or annual climbers and trying to disentangle the haulms from the plastic netting is frustrating to say the least. Last year I made my own jute bean netting during lockdowns from a ball of jute string, using fishing netting techniques learnt from You Tube! I also re-use plastic labels.

A quick scrub with a soap-filled steel wool pad cleans off the old writing. Purchased white plastic labels are very hard to write on in pencil which is the only permanent solution for plant labels. Even so-called permanent pens fade in the sun.

Wooden labels or lollipop sticks rot away remarkably fast.

You may have noticed that most garden centre plants pots are no longer black but taupe coloured, as recycling machines cannot identify black.

7. Visit gardens in your area and beyond that open for the National Gardens Scheme for new ideas for your own garden and help raise money for nursing, caring and well-being charities 8. Designate an area for wildlife e.g. log pile, bug hotel. We do not have to have loads of nettles and weeds to encourage wildlife, our gardens are havens for them, so keep your eyes open for bumblebee nests in the ground, sadly often predated by badgers, miner bee nests in your lawn or old mortar in walls. They are all fascinating to watch. Even wasps have their place and eat greenfly early in the season before they rasp away your wooden fence!

9. Use water sparingly, select drought tolerant plants for containers and line terracotta pots with old carrier bags to cut down on water loss through the sides. Plant the right plant in the right place and it will thrive once established.

10. Check your box plants regularly, from April onwards, for the first signs of the box bush caterpillar which is in our area.

Look for the tell-tale signs of webbing and eaten foliage. Pick off as many caterpillars as possible whilst awaiting the arrival of the biological control Topbuxus Xentari, a very effective bacteria specific to caterpillars. This pest can be as destructive as the gooseberry sawfly which can defoliate a bush almost overnight.

Let’s look forward to a productive new gardening year, hopefully the worst of the pandemic will be behind us. Our gardens kept us going during lockdowns and taught many new to gardening what a rewarding pastime it can be, not only for our physical wellbeing, but for our minds as well.

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JANUARY GARDEN TIPS

GARDENING

• Mist over the tops of houseplants regularly especially if they are in a room with central heating. Water carefully; it is better to let plants dry out between waterings and then give a thorough soak than a small amount regularly.

• Clean houseplant leaves with leaf shine. Dusty leaves will struggle in low light at this time of year and polished ones look so much better!

• Group plants together, the display will look better, but more importantly, they grow better together as a group.

• Feed indoor plants monthly; but make sure the root ball is wet first, if not water first!

• Keep Citrus cool unless they are actively growing.

• If your living room is looking bare once you have taken out the Christmas tree and taken down the decorations, why not liven up the room with a houseplant • Keep deadheading Cyclamen, African Violets, Christmas Cacti and Azaleas to encourage more flowers to open. Don't forget to keep Cyclamen and Azaleas as cool as possible for prolonged flowering.

• When the days and nights are very cold, move plants away from cold windowsills into a warmer place!

• Apply a good general fertiliser to all borders.

• Gather up and burn diseased leaves from under roses and fruit.

• Check tree ties and stakes.

• Plant when the weather is mild and when the soil is not wet, sticky or frozen hard. Improve the planting area with well-rotted compost or manure.

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Perfect Pave, based on the Valley Line industrial estate, in Cheddar, has built an enviable reputation over the last 16 years for the quality of its work installing block paving and other landscaping products. Now founders Alex Howley and Simon Bethell have set up a new service run by James Starmer supplying these products to both the trade and public, as well as continuing to expand their installation team. e company now has contracts all over the South West and offers a wide choice of projects.

It’s not only friendly, professional service that sets us apart, we can’t be beaten on price and ensure our prices beat those of builders’ merchants and garden centres.

Showroom open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri 8am-12noon Sat MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 51

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MENDIP TIMES

Looking to the future

CONGRESBURY Gardening Club has announced that plans have already been made for a return to full activity in the year ahead.

A spring show is planned for March 22nd, a plant sale on May 7th and the summer rose show on June 25th. Outings are planned to Bristol Botanic Gardens and the Malvern Spring Show.

Speakers have been booked for every monthly meeting until May, starting with Colin Higgins of YACWAG talking about Gardening for Insects on Thursday, January 6th.

President Ann Gunner paid tribute to three long-standing members, Ian and Norma Penny and Margaret Weston, who have died this year.

Temple Cloud shines

TEMPLE Cloud in Bloom members brought some festive cheer to the village by putting lights on planters, trees and the bus shelter by Dami Howard and Pam Jeffery the village green.

The next working party is on Saturday, January 15th when new helpers would be very welcome.

NORTON GREEN GARDEN CENTRE

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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WELLS ROAD, CHILCOMPTON, RADSTOCK BA3 4RR Telephone: 01761 232137 Open Mon–Sat 10am to 4pm • Closed Sundays PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

NGS support for charities

THE National Garden Scheme has announced donations of more than £3million to its beneficiary charities, despite the ongoing restrictions and uncertainty that continued throughout the early months of 2021.

This was only slightly lower than the pre-pandemic donation made in 2019 of £3,106,208. NGS schemes in our area raised £212,113.

The main beneficiaries were Marie Curie, Macmillan Cancer Support, Hospice UK, Carers Trust, The Queen’s Nursing Institute and Parkinson’s UK.

Details: https://bit.ly/NGSImpactReport2021

Time to plan ahead

GARDEN Designer Eliza Gray is looking forward to 2022 following a busy and successful time last year, which saw her win the Muddy Stilettoes Award for Best Garden Designer across Dorset and Somerset.

She said: “I have been designing gardens across the region for more than 15 years, so I was thrilled to receive this recognition of my work.

“Following lockdown, it has been an incredibly busy time and I am so pleased to be able to help people to create gardens where they love to spend time.

“Now is the time to plan ahead for next summer – demand for good designers and landscapers means that they are often booked up months in advance, so winter is always the best time to be planning for summer the following year.”

Details: www.elizagraygardens.co.uk

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Kids get planting

GARDENING

Words and pictures

by Ros Anstey

CHILDREN from Stanton Drew Primary School have been busy planting bulbs, as they did last year, thanks to more donations from villagers, organised by Shirley and Pete Edwards.

This year two volunteers dug the holes the day before and then the school was ready to go, with a wheelbarrow full of bulbs.

Getting ready to plant

Molly with her school buddy Harry

Poppy prepares to plant bulbs

Railway gardeners are “outstanding” VOLUNTEER gardeners at the Somerset and Dorset Heritage Railway in Midsomer Norton have been awarded a certificate of “outstanding” from South West in Bloom for their entry in the “It’s Your Neighbourhood” category.

Judges praised their use of colourful planting schemes appropriate to the industrial heritage theme at Midsomer Norton Station and also the links between the railway volunteers and local schools particularly the Mendip School and the Fosse Way school whose students who had regularly worked at the site.

Elijah with bulbs he is about to plant

The Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Lynda Robertson, presents the South West in Bloom Level 5 Outstanding Award to the gardening volunteers of Midsomer Norton Railway Station

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 53

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MENDIP TIMES

Busy Christmas at Shoscombe

SHOSCOMBE Church School has been busy with Christmas shows! The youngest children performed a nativity, Years 1 and 2 put on performances of the Ugly Duckling and the oldest children hosted a carol service.

PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

EDUCATION

School passes inspection

SIDCOT School was inspected at the start of November by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The team carried out a Regulatory Compliance Inspection which looked at all the standards schools are required to meet, including those relevant to boarding.

The inspection team met with students and staff, Iain Kilpatrick including members of the Board of Governors. They issued pre-inspection questionnaires to parents, students and staff as part of their evidence collection.

Headmaster, Iain Kilpatrick, said: “We are delighted to report that the school was found to be compliant in all areas.”

Sidcot School is an independent school with around 600 students from around the world. It is a Quaker school and places an emphasis on peace and global studies within the curriculum.

It is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff appointments are subject to a DBS enhanced check.

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Frank flies to 100!

NEWS

Chew Valley plants trees

MORE than 100 trees have been planted at Chew Valley School thanks to a group of pupils, who call themselves the school’s climate action team, run by sixth formers Lauren Thomas and Jenny Heath, led by teacher Rose Taylor.

The team meets every Friday in school and consists of members from years 7-10, although all years are welcome.

Jenny said: “We have around 25 members, including Lauren and I who are spending part of our gap year volunteering at the school.”

Campaign continues against ward plans

FRANK Ott is hoping to make a nostalgic return to the Fleet Air Arm Museum at Yeovilton – to mark his 100th birthday.

The museum has the medals he won in WW2, when he and his pilot led an attack on a Japanese cruiser. It also has an American Avenger torpedo bomber, which is the type he flew.

He was a volunteer at the museum for many years and wrote a book for the Society of Friends there, Air Power at Sea, marking the 60th anniversary of the end of the war.

Frank lived in Litton for many years, while he was bursar at the University of Bristol and now lives in Wells. He is a former member of Glastonbury Male Voice Choir.

He celebrates his 100th birthday on January 5th.

Supporting nature

VARIOUS projects are benefiting from the 12-month Levels Up scheme launched in the spring to support nature across Somerset.

Annie Cowell, coordinator, said: “This includes work to improve river water quality in the headwaters that flow into Chew Valley Lake; supporting the Westbury-sub-Mendip Community Tree Group to develop their tree nursery to grow locally native trees; improving boundaries for grazing animals and visitors at a number of sites near Priddy.”

In February the project will host a series of events to provide information to farmers on the new and emerging Environmental Land Management Scheme.

Details: www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk/news/levels-up/

Protestors outside the Priory Health Park in Wells

PROTESTORS opposed to the planned relocation of a mental health unit in Wells have staged a further demonstration outside the building.

The Save St Andrew’s Group wants the Somerset Care Commissioning Group to overturn their decision to transfer the beds in St Andrew’s Ward at the Priory Health Park to Yeovil as part of their plans to improve mental health provision in the county.

Those opposed claim a lack of transport will make it difficult for patients living in Mendip to access the services. They also fear Somerset County Council will have to pay for gaps in the provision out of its adult social care budget.

Emma King, one of the protest organisers, said: “The move is purely for the convenience of the CCG and fails to take into account the legitimate needs of service users and the local community.

“This is why we firmly believe that the CCG needs to invest in St Andrew's Ward properly and reopen Phoenix in order to provide local people with the services they need in light of the growing population and the growing need for mental health provision in the light of the pandemic.”

The protestors were hoping to reach 4,000 names on a petition against the plans by the end of December. It can be found at: https://chng.it/QKZVFzvyzV

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 55

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MENDIP TIMES

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Santa Specials bring delight CRANMORE

FESTIVE train services at the Somerset and Dorset Heritage Railway in Midsomer Norton and the East Somerset Railway at Cranmore entertained families in the run-up to Christmas.

This family travelled from Bournemouth to enjoy the day at the Somerset and Dorset line. Santa’s grotto was in a newly-refurbished van which will become the line’s bookshop The festive train was pulled by the line’s resident loco Joyce

Heading off on a journey towards Chilcompton

Meeting Santa at Cranmore – Penelope, aged three, and sister Jasmine, aged seven, from Lydford-on-Fosse

A snow machine adds a wintry feel to the East Somerset Railway platform at Cranmore

PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Lunchtime on the East Somerset Railway

Elf Jingle with visitors Brodie, Dawson and Mia at Cranmore

Ivatt 46447, one of the ESR’s resident locos, pulls the Santa Special

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CHARITIES

Men’s walk is back

Help for donkeys

DOROTHY House Hospice has announced its fundraising Men’s Walk will be held on Sunday, February 13th.

The walk starts at 12noon from Dorothy House, Winsley and follows along the canal to Bath Pavilion - just in time to watch the Six Nations England v Italy match at 3pm.

Pictured (l to r) Jenny Taylor, Christine Underwood, Janet Parsons and Val Adams

Details: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk or call 01225 721480

Store helps rural communities

Cakes and a raffle: regular customers Rachel and Phillip Doggrell (third and fourth left) are pictured with Sam Read, Helen Stevens and Richard Read, from Read Agri

A CHARITY day at Read Agri in Wanstrow has raised funds for the Farming Community Network and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Going the final mile

WESTON Hospicecare have launched a fundraising event called the Final Mile, challenging supporters to run, jog or walk either 100 miles, 50 miles, a marathon or half marathon to raise cash for the charity.

They will be challenged over a 30 consecutive day period in January and February to cover all but one mile of their chosen distance before joining in with The Final Mile on Weston seafront with all the participants on Sunday, February 27th.

It costs £7.50 for adults and £5 for children to enter, while all participants are asked to raise a minimum of £45 while taking part in the challenge.

Details: www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/event/the-finalmile

JANET Parsons of Stowey raised £360 for the charity Safe Haven for Donkeys in the Holy Land with craft stalls at East Harptree and Chew Magna.

Her fellow crafters are ex-pupils from the Orchard Workshop, a charity she used to run. They still meet monthly at her house to make different goods for charity.

Charity chief on the move

MELISSA Hillier, chief executive of WHY, We Hear You, the Fromebased charity which supports anyone affected by cancer and life threatening conditions, has announced she’s leaving after six years.

She’s praised the team for continuing to work with amazing calm and focus: “As we came out of the various lockdowns our WHY phone began to ring more and more and we have become extremely busy over the last few months.

“As we predicted; as the world opened up, so people began to think of their mental health and wellbeing and our counsellors have been here to support them.”

She’s moving to a charity looking at older people’s health issues. She said: “It has been an incredible six years and I have really enjoyed growing the charity and enabling us to support so many more people.

“It has been a total pleasure working with the WHY team, all our volunteers, funders and supporters and I will certainly miss everyone.”

Details: 01373 455255 or email info@wehearyou.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 57

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MENDIP TIMES

Taking the plunge

Recycling Christmas trees

Izzy’s descent

KEYNSHAM Mencap’s first team of charity tandem skydivers took to the Devon skies and raised more than £6,000 in sponsorship.

Skydivers Amanda, Helen, Lauren, Izzy, Gemma and Amila have helped ensure an even greater diary of holidays, day trips and equipment for members.

Fundraiser, Amanda Leonard, said: “It helps to raise awareness of what we do for our community as supporters spread the word of the work we deliver.”

The charity is planning another skydive on Sunday, April 3rd 2022.

Details: amanda@keynshammencap.org.uk

Gift cards launched

DORSET and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) has launched a brand-new range of gift cards to help support the charity’s lifesaving work.

There are four different designs which can be purchased for either £10, £25, £50 or £100. Each card has been designed with the charity’s critical care team’s work in mind and focusses on the different types of equipment and supplies that help them care for seriously ill or injured patients. l Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance came out winners in three categories at this year’s National Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence, after being shortlisted as a finalist in five categories, “highlighting the broad scope and high standard of the service they provide and the incredible motivation and professionalism of their people”.

Details: https://www.dsairambulance.org.uk/shop call 01823 669604 or email fundraising@dsairambulance.org.uk

PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

WESTON Hospicecare’s Pines for Pounds is back after an excellent debut last Christmas. It provides a Christmas tree collection service for a donation and is coordinated by Weston Rotary.

It will take place on Saturday, January 8th and there are up to 1000 collection slots available, in Weston and surrounding areas, which can be booked through the hospice website.

Weston Hospicecare’s community fundraising manager, Sue Kingman, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that Weston Rotary have come back to support us with this event again after the upcoming festive period.

“It’s such a fantastic idea and saves us all a job while supporting a local charity and making a huge difference to people locally.”

Julian Matthews of Weston Rotary, said: “We’re being even more ambitious about the amount of money we can raise in 2022 as this means a bigger donation to Weston Hospicecare and Rotary charities. Please do support us!”

Supporting Weston Rotary are Axbridge Rotary, Burnham Rotary and Young Farmers. The last event raised more than £5,500 for the hospice, when only 500 spaces were available.

Details: www.westonhospicecare.org.uk

Wedmore looks to build a new surgery

WEDMORE and Axbridge Community Health Fund is hoping to build a new state-of-the-art doctors’ surgery in the village. The charity has been supporting the work of the Axbridge & Wedmore GP Practice and its patients for 33 years.

Following the closure of another local charity, The Wedmore Ambulance Trust, the fund has recently received more than £370,000 from the sale of land in Wedmore.

The fund has decided to look at the feasibility of replacing the current inadequate surgery in St Medard Road and leasing the new premises to Axbridge and Wedmore Doctors.

It says: “This will provide a long-term secure income from the legacy to the fund which in turn will enable it to provide even more support for the health and wellbeing of patients. It also demonstrates the commitment of our GPs to serve the community in the Wedmore area.”

The viability of the project now depends on the donation of a suitable plot of land within Wedmore – one offer is being investigated – together with public fundraising to raise an estimated £500,000 towards the project. Wedmore Parish Council has reserved £100k of Community Infrastructure Levy funds.

The fund will be staging an exhibition in Wedmore Village Hall as part of Wedmore Parish Council’s Open Day, “Wedmore Have Your Say” on February 18th and 19th. This will also be an opportunity for any potential donors of land within Wedmore to come forward.

The fund also sees this project as a way to involve local volunteer expertise and has already received many offers from skilled volunteers, but more will be sought as the project goes ahead. All the professional advice received so far has been donated free-of-charge.

Details: Shirley Wederell 01934 712089

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CHARITIES

School remembers gifted teacher

Molly (left) and Lucy

Playground run for refugees

YEAR 5 pupils at St Paul’s CofE VC Junior School in Shepton Mallet have completed a sponsored run of 50 laps of their playground to raise money for a local charity working with refugees.

They also wrote letters of welcome to families being resettled in Somerset. The money raised will go to Refugee Action in East Somerset to buy toys and games for families.

(Photography courtesy of Ben Taylor)

STUDENTS at Bruton School for Girls held a 12-hour Hockathon raising funds for the Cure CJD Campaign in memory of a teacher who died from the disease.

Organisers Molly and Lucy said: “We’ve found that, when talking about the disease, very few people, if any at all, have any knowledge of it.

“Because of this, we want to raise awareness and, ultimately, raise funds that would go towards finding a cure for this awful degenerative brain disorder.

“Our teacher died just before Christmas last year and, because of various lockdowns and other restrictions, we haven’t been able to come together as a community to remember her until now.

“She always loved getting involved with school events and was the embodiment of community spirit. It is with this in mind that we organised the Hockathon, to carry this on a year after her passing.”

Head of languages, Xavière Harvey, said: “This very cruel disease stripped a very talented linguist, speaking four languages fluently, from the ability to communicate in any language, in a matter of weeks and her tragic loss in the Christmas holidays was a shock to us all.”

All the pupils at the school were involved in the fundraiser in some way, as well as teachers and parents, be it playing hockey, running stalls, baking or making goodies to sell, advertising the event and supporting each other all the way through.

The event raised £1,281.

The St Paul’s School runners MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 59

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MENDIP TIMES

Concorde dinner for charity – in memory of Maggie THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for two charities thanks to a huge event staged in the Filton Museum which houses Concorde.

The event was organised by Peter Wells of Bishop Sutton, who started fundraising for meningitis research four years ago, after the sudden death of his wife Maggie from the disease.

Following some initial fundraising events in her memory, the Meningitis Family was formed by combining with other fundraisers who had suffered the same family bereavements.

Like so many other charities, the Meningitis Family, based in Bishop Sutton, started its fundraising again for Meningitis

Now and Meningitis Research in October, after two years of non-activity due to Covid.

Peter said: “Starting again after the lockdown, we were determined to return with a bang and something under Concorde seemed the best and most unusual thing to do.

“Over 200 revellers enjoyed a fabulous three-course meal, a walk through Concorde herself and danced the night away to the South West's top band 247 Live.

“A massive tombola and auction added to the evening’s festivities all under the wonderful host of the evening, radio DJ Paris Troy. Thousands of pounds were raised, to be split on a 50/50 basis between the two charities.”

Some of the guests

Fair and flowers for children’s hospice

CHRISTMAS gifts and goodies were on sale at the Tucker’s Grave Inn at Faulkland in aid of the Children’s Hospice South West.

The event was inspired by the work of artist David Graham who donates all the proceeds from sales of his paintings to the charity. Some of his works are on show at the Old Parlour at the inn.

Meanwhile, a new variety of rose has been created to celebrate

the 30th anniversary of CHSW. The “Precious Lives” rose was grown by a specialist nursery in Bedfordshire which also created the Jill Farwell rose in memory of the co-founder of the charity following her death in 2004.

Jill and her husband Eddie set up the hospice in 1991. Their two eldest children, Katie and Tom had life-limiting illnesses and the family experienced the urgent need for children’s hospice care for themselves.

David Graham (far right) with some of the CHSW team at the Tucker’s Grave Inn

Sam Roberts, aged six, the son Heidi Roberts, the charity’s area community fundraiser, lends a hand at the fair

For details, visit: www.chsw.org.uk/anniversary-rose

PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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CHARITIES

(Photograph courtesy of Ben Adams)

Henry joins the biking Santas

HUNDREDS of biking Santas descended on the area to raise money for the Children’s Hospice South West at Wraxall.

Henry Matyjasik, from Backwell, joined them, pictured with his eldest son Lance and his 13-year-old daughter, Charlotte.

This is the 16th year of this charity ride and Henry and his family have been doing it regularly for many years. They joined bikers coming from Taunton, Bridgwater and Weston-

super-Mare areas and rode up the A370 to the Sea Walls on the Downs in Bristol.

They regrouped, then rode on to Winterbourne Academy where they were joined by bikers from Wales, Gloucestershire, Bath and Somerset.

They all rode towards Bristol City Centre and then onto a tea and cakes reception provided by the hospice.

Henry and his family have so far raised more than £700.

Details: https://www.justgiving.com/Lance-Henry-Charlotte

Helping families

PURPLE Elephant in Frome, which provides services for children and disadvantaged families, is appealing for support to help families all year round and not just at Christmas.

For Christmas, it was offering a series of fun, indoor family activity sessions, including Santa giving presents to all the children, and providing healthy meals for everyone, thanks to partner organisation, Fair Frome.

In the past year alone, the Purple Elephant team, via its range of five charitable support services, has supported over 800 local families on low incomes, with additional needs or facing other forms of disadvantage.

Director, Sue Willis, said: “It is truly shocking how many children are struggling in Somerset and right here in Frome.”

Details: www.purpleelephant.org.uk/support-us/

Book shines a light on remote island

A BOOK published in Glastonbury aims to help one of the world’s most remote communities, the 250 people who live on Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic.

The book Nothing Can Stop Us covers the The authors with the book island’s 1961 volcanic eruption and how its people were evacuated to the UK and then returned home.

The book is written by former St Dunstan’s, Glastonbury teacher, Richard Grundy who worked on the island in the 1980s and is now co-chair and newsletter editor of the UKbased Tristan da Cunha Association.

Together with London-based co-author Neil Robson and designed by Murray Wallace from Glastonbury printers Direct Offset, the team have produced a 300-page book with 132 illustrations, most in full colour to raise funds to support the island through the association’s charity.

It can be ordered on the Tristan website www.tristandc.com and bought at local bookshops Dicketts in Glastonbury and Bailey Hill Bookshop in Castle Cary for £20.

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 61

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MENDIP TIMES

Here we go again

THERE’S nothing remotely surprising about a new variant of the Sars-CoV-2 virus taking over.

We’ve known for a long time that this virus isn’t going anywhere, that it mutates all the time, and then selects those mutations that allow it to spread more quickly. That’s called evolution and you can’t stop it. The only surprising thing about

By Dr PHIL Omicron is its name.

HAMMOND Why we choose the Greek alphabet to name variants of concern is beyond me, but we’ve had quite a few since Delta that have passed unnoticed. Every one from Epsilon to Mu hasn’t been able to out-compete the big D. Beta was big in South Africa but barely troubled the UK. Nu sounds like new and Xi sounds like the Chinese leader so before we knew it, we were up to Omicron. Next in line is Pi, and the government has been taking that in large volumes for at least a year, with all their departmental parties (sorry, “gatherings”) as we were all supposed to be following the rules.

And then to deny such gatherings ever happened and even if they did, all the rules were followed! It’s a never-ending Pi take.

No-one yet knows whether Omicron will cause more hospitalisation and death than Delta, but even if it is no more virulent, it will likely cause more harm by spreading further and faster and will very likely become the dominant strain. So what should we do?

We couldn’t stop the SARS original, grew a huge wave of the Alpha variant within our borders and then carelessly imported a huge loading dose of Delta from India which spread like wildfire. So our chances of stopping a variant that is even more transmissible than Delta on our over-crowded, liberal island are negligible.

The best we can hope for is to flatten the wave of infection to take the heat off the NHS, but the only way of doing that in the past has been through lockdowns which are themselves very damaging and everybody hates them.

Even more people will be spreading the virus, most won’t actually get Covid but they could pass on the virus to those more vulnerable.

Given how many of us could theoretically test positive without having any symptoms, it could be the mother of all pingdemics ahead.

The economy could grind to a halt again.

The good news is that human ingenuity will in time suppress each new variant. There is a world of difference between failing to stop a virus before we had vaccines and failing to stop a variant when we do have vaccines that should still provide decent (if diminished) protection against hospitalisation, harm and death, and are already being altered to be omicron-specific and effective against multiple variants.

We were always likely to need boosters against a mutating virus, so get yours when you are called. It’s the single best protection you have against serious Covid illness.

In addition, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has now approved two antibody treatments, sotrovimab and ronapreve, which can dramatically improve outcomes for those seriously ill with Covid if given within five days of symptoms.

These add to the growing number of proven treatments for Covid.

The harm the virus does will be greatly reduced in countries who can afford the drugs and vaccines. But to reduce the risk of future variants we need to make these available to the whole world . . .

Dr Hammond’s Covid Casebook, a Sunday Times best seller, is out now

PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Plop the Raindrop

I ONCE spent almost an entire winter on a reindeer, ranging over the ice in the far north, with the brilliant glow of the northern lights swirling in the darkness.

The reindeer were being herded by the Sami people. I know some of you associate reindeer with an old man with a big white beard who zooms about on a sled at Christmas.

I have to confess I didn’t see anyone of that description. But then the Arctic tundra covers a very big area.

This was a long time ago before cars or anything else like that were invented. So the Sami were selfsufficient and cut off from human beans everywhere else in the world.

That means everything they needed, from food, shelter and warmth, they had to provide for themselves.

With the help of the reindeer, of course.

Being a tiny water droplet, like me, does have its privileges. It means I can observe the world around me undisturbed.

And I’ve been doing that for millions and millions of years, since I first arrived unexpectedly from deep space on what you call Earth.

I’ve seen all kinds of catastrophes and mass extinctions, not to mention some of the most interesting events in your history. Do you want to know who invented the wheel? I’ll see if I can remember her name.

Anyway back to the reindeer. They are quite small, with large splayed feet which helps them to walk on snow. Their fur is thick and layered to keep out the cold. I was snuggled in it, together with a few million bugs.

So reindeer are perfectly adapted to their environment, as are camels in the desert and gorillas in the rain forest.

And in the same way, you have adapted to the environment where you happen to live, usually in harmony with the wildlife and local environment.

Just think about how you tamed dogs and horses to help you. It was the same for the Sami people. They protected their reindeer from predators. The reindeer pulled their sleds and provided them with food, clothing and shelter.

The reindeer probably got the worst part of that deal, but it was an arrangement that seemed to work.

There’s a kind of harmony that helps all living things to get along together.

If that breaks down, it can end in disaster. In my case the reindeer rolled in a big pile of bear pooh and left me in it!

MENDIP GRANDAD

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The Pilates Room Wells opening in January!

HEALTH & FAMILY

IF you struggle with aches and pains or want to get stronger and more flexible, then look no further than The Pilates Room Wells which is opening on January 3rd. Run by experienced Pilates teacher, Ali, this brand new home studio will offer private 1-1 Pilates tuition using specialist equipment.

Pilates is truly universal and can be done by anyone of any age, gender, body type, flexibility or physical ability. Ali recently relocated to Wells having previously run a home Pilates studio in Bristol for four years.

She said: “I’m really excited to be re-opening my home studio in the beautiful city of Wells. It’s a wonderful form of exercise and I create tailor-made programmes which are specific to each person’s needs.

“I work very much in partnership with my clients to build their confidence so they can live their lives with more ease and comfort. There’s such a variety of exercises you can do using the equipment that you’ll never get bored...and it’s great fun too!”

In light of the pandemic, safety is key. Ali said: “Keeping clients safe is something I take very seriously especially in light of Covid-19. I will be taking regular lateral flow tests and have implemented a number of measures to ensure my studio is a Covid-safe environment for people to come and enjoy some Pilates.”

Details: www.thepilatesroomwells.com or email ali@thepilatesroomwells.com

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 63

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MENDIP TIMES

Nelson’s match day outing

Wedmore Dental Practice is welcoming another dentist to the team in January. Nikolai Stankiewicz qualified in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. He has worked as a family dentist in the South West for over 20 years and brings a wealth of experience to the role.

Nikolai acts as an advisor to dental regulatory bodies. He has also written a book and several research papers focusing on cross-infection control in dentistry. Cross-infection control is paramount in dentistry, especially with the continuing dominance of Covid-19 in our lives. We are really honoured and excited to have Nikolai’s expertise going forwards.

We have continued to be fully operational throughout the pandemic, for existing and new patients. Our mission is to be the dental practice that patients recommend to friends and family and that local business and healthcare providers recommend to their customers and patients.

We take pride in being a small, independent practice. This gives us the autonomy to provide individualised patient care, using high-quality dental materials and laboratories. Give us a call, send an email, or contact us via Insta for more information.

We have appointments available for routine and emergency care.

Wishing all of our patients a healthy and happy New Year!

The Team at Wedmore Dental Practice @wedmoredental

PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

FORMER Cheddar FC player, Nelson Spencer, enjoyed a VIP day out when his former club invited him to watch one of their home games.

Now a resident at Somerset Care’s Greenhill House residential care home in Cheddar, Nelson enjoyed catching up with old friends including the club's president, and watched the game in the company of Greenhill's deputy manager, Fay Difford, and her partner, Alex Fudge.

It was his first trip out of the home for a while and Nelson really was treated like a VIP by the club, who put on half-time tea and cake and have invited Nelson back anytime he likes in the future.

Manager of Greenhill House, Jenny Futcher, said: "I would like to thank everyone at Cheddar Football Club for making Nelson's day out so special. A huge thank you is also due to Fay, who used her day off – and roped in her partner – to collect Nelson and give him an incredible day out to remember.

"Going to watch the football might seem such a small thing, but it's clear how much it meant to Nelson. It's wonderful to see his face light up every time he talks about his trip out to watch the game.”

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HEALTH & FAMILY

Making funerals less of an undertaking

Your Local Award-Winning Funeral Director Rod Major, owner

The Bath and Wells Funeral Directors base in Chilcompton

BATH and Wells Funeral Directors, based in Chilcompton, uses the same successful formula developed by Rod Major at its counterpart Wells Funeral Services.

Since establishing WFS in September 2016, Rod and his team have been offering a range of affordable funerals across Mendip, Somerset and beyond. But for them, they say, the services are more about arranging a celebration of life than a funeral.

They pride themselves on delivering funerals that people want; establishing their client's needs, wants and budget is of paramount importance to them as a business.

Rod said: “We like to get to know our families and so, for us, that means a trip to Wells Market and to be visible to one and all on Wednesdays from January to November you will find me on my market stall.

“Reaching out to help with advice – but we like to talk about anything and everything – it's more about getting to know people. Why sit in an office waiting for the phone to ring, when people like to see who they are dealing with and enjoy some good, old-fashioned banter!”

In 2021, Rod delivered more funerals than in the two previous years, from Hindu and pagan services, from Wells Cathedral to Downside Abbey and non-religious services too as well as arranging woodland and meadow burials.

Art student’s designs on Christmas

A TALENTED Year 11 student at the Blue School in Wells designed a Christmas card for clients and carers at the mental health charity Heads Up based on the edge of the city.

Abi Rolfe was recommended by the school’s Head of Art to Jenni Robertson, the charity’s Head of Health and Social Care. Jenni said: “We are working in collaboration with Heads Up so the students can learn about dementia and the other forms of mental illness.”

From February Heads Up will also be giving the students Dementia Friends training.

What our customers say: “The most tragic and emotional event in your life needs the best support you can get. I’m very pleased to have chosen WFS for my dear wife’s funeral.

“Rod and his team were respectful, informative and professional from the first contact and gave the right balance of contact and getting on with arrangements in the background.

“Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them. Thanks to Rod on a personal level for your service and respect for my lovely Sharon.” Martin S.

Call Rod on 01761 233 555 or email: fd@bwfd.me.uk www.bathwellsfuneralservices.co.uk

OUR HIGHLY SKILLED CLINICIANS ARE ABLE TO USE THE MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO INVESTIGATE THE HEALTH OF YOUR EYES!

• • • •

Join our Eyecare Plan:

Unlimited advice on all your eye care needs Great discounts on all your spectacle requirements Repairs and adjustments to spectacles We offer a range of contact lenses, dry eye lubricants, solutions and myopia (Short-sightedness) management options. As predictions indicate that by 2050 half of the world’s population will be myopic • OCT scans and Optomap imaging of the health of your eyes Orriss and Low Optometrists, Corner House, Woodborough Road, Winscombe, BS25 1AQ 01934 843713 • www.orrissandlow.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 65

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MENDIP TIMES

HEALTH & FAMILY

Blueprint for healthier lifestyles

There has never been a more exciting time to become a consultant for The 1:1 Diet Flexible working hours to fit around your current commitments Full training and ongoing support provided AND incentives to WIN free holidays Free consultations face-to-face or virtually for weight loss and for consultant vacancy email: cwpfran@gmail.com or call 07999 584935

SOMERSET County Council has unveiled plans for major new safe cycling and walking routes in the county to help create greener, healthier and more active streets.

Its Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans include one for Frome, being led by the town council, aided

by Somerset County Council’s Climate Change Fund.

Alongside these, Mendip District Council has commissioned an LCWIP for Mendip which is in development and will be supported by Somerset County Council.

Having a plan in place is key to unlocking Government funding to build the infrastructure and enable people in Somerset to choose to walk or cycle to work, school, the shops or for other short trips for the benefit of people’s health and the environment.

Expanding the active travel network is an essential part of Somerset’s Climate Emergency Strategy – agreed by all Somerset councils to steer the county towards becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

Councillor Clare Paul, the council’s cabinet member for Public Health, said: “Encouraging people to cycle and walk more is a great way to support health and wellbeing. It’s vital for the health of our environment and our communities – it offers the potential for greener, healthier streets for all.”

COURT HOUSE

AWARD WINNING CARE HOME

e Care Home with a difference. We offer all that you would expect from a high quality, family run Care Home set in a Georgian House in the lovely village of Cheddar, Somerset.

You can live your life to the full and choice is our favourite word. Rooms now available with full en-suite facilities and total personal care is offered.

Rated by the CQC as good in all areas

e Manager – Chris Dando • 01934 742131 • chriscourthouse@gmail.com Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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Celebrating discovery

EACH year, cavers give an award to the team which has discovered and surveyed the most cave passage on Mendip or in Scotland. This is in memory of the late Tony Jarratt, a charismatic caver who seemed to live for the sole purpose of digging in caves. Last year, due to Covid lockdowns, the ceremony was With PHILIP brief and was videoed and shown on HENDY YouTube.

The 2021 event, the 13th, held on November 20th, was in contrast a crowded affair, held at the Hunters’ Lodge Inn as usual.

Conviviality was assured as a subsidised barrel of beer was laid on, thanks to our hosts, Roger and Jackie Dors, and the group previously rescued from Eastwater Cavern.

The meeting was chaired by Mendip Cave Rescue chairman, Martin Grass, who started by making the award to Trevor Hughes and the Cainhillites for finding 173 metres of new passage in Stock Hill Mine Cave. This team had already won the award in 2019, for the discovery of 638 metres of passage in this cave.

In plan, the cave can be likened to the skeleton of a squashed frog. Two streams enter from the north and meet to disappear in the Diving Board Sump, which is too tight to dive. However, digging down into a side passage led to another sump five metres lower. The stream then heads west before vanishing.

Further up the cave, a muddy dig led to a large chamber, with a tight passage to the south where running water can be heard. This presumably is the main stream and is where future efforts will be concentrated.

Interestingly, an upstream rift passage has been found. It is high but narrow and lived in by bats, which cannot have come in via the cavers’ entrance. This means that there is a surface connection nearby, but only accessible to bats, otherwise it would have been located and dug.

The runner-up was Andy Watson and a Mendip Nature Research Committee team for their dig at Carrion Slocker, on Green Farm at Downhead, courtesy of F. and S. Brittan and their son Daniel, who now runs the farm. This dig in a rubbish-filled depression was started in 2016. After clearing and recycling the rubbish, a six metre pit was excavated in a wet shaft.

The water was led down in a pipe and digging continued. Most Some of the winners

(Photographs by Phil Hendy)

CAVING

The audience

of the dig is in unstable conglomerate and there are many loose boulders. In 2021, the team extended the cave to a depth of 44 metres, with a length of 130 metres. They appear to have reached limestone at last and the cave is probably linked to the nearby Heale Farm Sink and Heale Farm Cave, which seem to drain towards Merehead Quarry.

There was no entry from Scotland this year, as cavers in Assynt have been concentrating on stabilising cave entrances, and prospecting. After a short break to refresh our tankards, we settled back down to learn of progress in various other digs.

Most interesting was a resume by Antony Butcher of the Shepton Mallet Caving Club of work at Gibbets Brow Shaft. This old mineshaft lies by the roadside in a field opposite Lamb Leer Cavern and is close to where in August 1957 Professor Palmer of Bristol University predicted the presence of a large chamber, similar in size to the Main Chamber in Lamb Leer, using georesistivity probes.

A 50 metre entrance shaft leads to phreatic tubes. These meander tantalisingly close to the Main Chamber and a breakthrough is the chief object of the dig. At present, a six metre shaft has been dug to a solid floor, with a large phreatic passage leading off. This is mud-filled, and prone to flooding, so the dig is squalid and wet. It appears to be five to ten metres above St. Valentine’s Series in Lamb Leer, where many years ago a Wessex Cave Club team dug briefly in a very tight passage leading west from December Chamber.

Antony has access to gravimetric and magnetometry equipment and has been trying to replicate Palmer’s findings. Gravity readings from the surface clearly show the position of Main Chamber, but although there are some anomalies, nothing indicates the presence of Palmer’s Chamber, which many cavers believe to be a fallacy anyway.

Young members of the Cave Diving Group have been active in Rickford Rising, one of the main springs rising from the north side of the Mendips. Diving in clear water against a strong current, a gap was seen behind a boulder. This took some ingenuity to remove, but it revealed a descending rift filled with gravel. This is slowly being removed, and the divers have achieved a depth of five metres.

In conclusion, Pete Glanvil described some digs he is involved with on the Quantocks. Most of these are shelters exposed in the past by small-scale quarrying. One “lost” cave turned out to be surprisingly open, and visited relatively recently! Efforts are also being made to reopen a disused copper mine, which is believed to have entered natural cave.

Overall, a lot of digging is taking place on and under Mendip, which shows that small groups of determined cavers can overcome the Covid lockdown restrictions to continue their journey into the unknown.

Phil has been caving for more than 50 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and until his retirement was a caving instructor at Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 67

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MENDIP TIMES

Christmas market

Carol Fear and Victoria Walker from East Harptree

EAST Harptree School PTA held its Christmas Market in the village theatre instead of the school and needed the extra room.

PTA chair, Jody Judd, said: “We raised a fantastic £630 for our wonderful school. I would just like to thank all of the PTA members and all of the local village and people from the Valley coming to help support this event. It was a huge success.”

Poppy Brake and Julianne Evans were serving teas

Lions’ pre-loved sale

CHEDDAR Vale Lions are replacing their normal jumble sale with a pre-loved sale on February 26th in the village hall.

This means they will take donations of good condition items only and will resell them to support their work in the community.

They will not be able to accept shoes, underwear (unless new and packaged), electrical items or furniture, but will accept good quality bric-a-brac and books.

Items can be delivered to the hall on the day after 12noon, so that they can be sorted ready for the opening at 2pm.

There will be an entrance fee of 20p, with refreshments available.

Details: 0345 8337402 or email information@cheddarvalelions.org.uk

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Support for hospice

Phil Smith and Brian Barton who were managing the cake raffle

BLAGDON’S Weston Hospicecare support group decided to hold a Christmas coffee morning, instead of the usual Christmas fair, and raised nearly £600.

One of the organisers, Tina Smith, said: “Thank you all once again for supporting the hospice and helping us raise this fabulous amount.”

Waiting to serve (l to r) Liz Davis, Jacky Kerley, Lorna Collins and Tina Smith

Music evening

CLAVERHAM musician Paul O’Donnell set feet tapping in Congresbury Methodist Hall when Cameo members met for an evening of music and mince pies.

He has recently had a tough year with cancer and asked for donations for Cancer Research.

The next Cameo meeting is the New Year meal at the Mediterraneum on January 12th.

Details: Stella 01934 835659

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(Photograph courtesy of Chris Parkes)

Winter walking on our rights of way

Christmas quiz

COMMUNITY

The hall was busy

Work in progress

THE New Year carries a lot of hope for better times for all.

Two years ago Covid 19 was an unknown term, but now we know just how fragile our world can be. Hopefully we’ve all learned from this experience, perhaps most of all how to value quite ordinary experiences.

For Mendip Ramblers the pleasures of walking are no longer taken for granted! We hope that our Winter Walking Programme will be a straightforward affair and we’ll try not to grumble about muddy fields and rainy weather!

And we’ll be grateful that our voluntary working party have been hard at work in 2021. Although their activities were curtailed, they have been out whenever possible. This ensures that reported access problems on the rights of way are addressed. All walkers benefit, especially during winter as broken bridges and wet weather are not a good combination!

As well as our usual weekly walks there are plans for some social events and some holidays – fingers crossed! We may even get to Brittany in the autumn, but meanwhile how lucky we are to live in a beautiful part of the world and that the UK itself has such a wonderful variety of scenery.

So, even if you’re not a rambler, keep walking and if you’d like to try group walking there are opportunities across the Mendip area. New walkers are always welcome. Unfortunately, printed programmes are not currently being produced but details can be found on our website: www.mendiprambers.co.uk.

Elaine Dadley for Mendip Ramblers

Feeding the needy

PEASEDOWN Community Trust is aiming to feed 30 of the most deprived households in the village again this Christmas time.

Chairman, Gavin Heathcote, said: “So many people in Peasedown St John could miss out on a festive holiday this year because they don’t have the money to put food on the table.

“A cold Christmas ahead with a family to feed, when you’ve lost your job, is a situation that nobody wants to be in.”

NEARLY 60 villagers and friends took part in Norton Malreward’s Christmas Fun Quiz, the first since Covid struck curtailing all village fundraising activities.

A hot buffet was provided during the interval, there was a well-stocked bar and the evening ended with a raffle with a good selection of donated prizes suitable for Christmas.

The total raised for the village hall amounted to £625.

Organisers, David and Rosemary Ballinger, said: “It was encouraging to see new faces on the teams and a very enjoyable evening was had by all.”

They plan to hold another quiz in the spring and urge villagers to watch out for details of other events in the hall, including Wednesday evening badminton sessions which are open to all.

Quizmasters Caroline and Kevin Sweet

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 69

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MENDIP TIMES

Successful sale

Jane Hares buying a raffle ticket at the stall manned by Ernie and Royette Chapman

LOYAL villagers braved the storm to fill Congresbury Methodist Hall for a Christmas sale and coffee morning, which raised £450 for the Friends of St. Andrew's.

This was the first fundraising for nearly two years and the money will be used for repairs and improvement to the church and Refectory.

Vicar of Congresbury, the Rev Matthew Thomson, thanked the many volunteers who donated items and gave their time.

Christmas gifts

PUPILS of Sandford School and their parents collected 32 shoeboxes of gifts and useful goods to be distributed to poorer children abroad by the international charity Operation Christmas Child.

Members of the school council are pictured with the shoeboxes, which have barcode tracking so they can check where they go.

Surviving winter

SOMERSET Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter appeal raised a phenomenal £100,000 in its first month thanks to the generosity of local donors who donated their winter fuel allowance.

The team have been busy distributing funding across the county and aim to support over 500 vulnerable older people in Somerset with a Surviving Winter grant again this winter.

Details: www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter

Co-op supports Men’s Shed

MIDSOMER Norton Men’s Shed has received a donation from the Co-op Community Fund. The presentation was made in front of the Co-op’s Marksbury store by manager Ben Rowe and Community Trust pioneer Tina Curtis.

Chairman of the Shed, Steve Swift, said: “We really appreciate the financial support from the Co-op and its customer members who have so kindly provided the funds.

“Thanks to this donation, we were able to purchase an immediate replacement pillar drill for our workshop as the old one had just expired. The remainder of the money will enable us to have a little more financial security in the medium term.”

Midsomer Norton Men’s Shed is part of Midsomer Norton Community Trust and is open to anyone over 18 years who wants to socialise and learn new practical skills.

The Shed is open on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 9.30am behind the big barn at Farrington Farm Shop.

Details: Steve Swift 07775 735789 stephenkhswift@gmail.com

Council wins funding to support low-income families

VULNERABLE low-income families struggling to feed their children or pay spiralling energy bills are set to receive financial help from Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The council has been awarded almost a million pounds by the Government to help households with increasing living costs this winter.

The money will be used to provide £250 grants to support lowincome households to meet rising energy costs and provide food vouchers to households whose children receive income-related free school meals.

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

The council is also allocating £100,000 from the funding to the district’s Citizens Advice Service to help vulnerable residents pay their rising energy bills.

Councillor Kevin Guy, council leader, said: “We’ve all felt the impact of the recent rise in the cost of living and in particular rocketing energy prices and this has resulted in some people having to make difficult choices between feeding their family or keeping them warm.

“This is unacceptable. Clearly, we can’t help everyone, but this funding will ensure our most vulnerable families are supported.”

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COMMUNITY

Christmas meal is back on the menu

MEMBERS of the Coleford Revival Group served up a treat when they held their annual Christmas meal for the village’s elderly residents.

The popular event, in the Royal British Legion Hall, was unable to go ahead last year due to the lockdown. Instead, the CRG – a community group behind events such as Coleford’s live music day and village day – went round the village with hampers.

The group was due to deliver more hampers this year to elderly residents unable to attend the roast turkey meal.

The meal is a popular fixture on the village’s calendar

Coleford vicar, the Rev Clarissa Cridland, says Grace

CRG chair Nicola Phillips serves Robin Bradbury (left), aged 97 and the village’s eldest resident, and Jack Spencer, aged 75

Patricia and Laura Beale on the raffle stall

Grants available

Members of the CRG just before the start of the meal

CHARITABLE groups in North Somerset are being invited to apply for grants of up to £10,000 from Quartet Community Foundation.

Last year it awarded more than 100 grants worth over £670,000 to charitable projects in the area.

Julie Newman from Quartet said: “So many of these groups now need our help. This grant programme can help them keep on delivering for some of the most disadvantaged people in our North Somerset communities.”

The deadline for applications is January 27th.

Details: https://quartetcf.org.uk/grant-programmes/resilience-programme/ or email Julie.newman@quartetcf.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 71

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Get ready to celebrate Shepton’s Snowdrop King

Dan Pearson: delighted to become the festival patron

Pearson, an award-winning landscape designer, horticulturalist and gardener, will be the first Shepton Snowdrops patron. RHS gold medal winning Yeo Valley Garden will open specially and donate proceeds to the Snowdrop Festival.

Entries for the 2022 snowdrop poetry and photography competitions are open. For details, visit: www.sheptonsnowdrops.org

Charity lunches return CHEW Stoke’s monthly soup lunches have resumed after a long break because of lockdown with packed halls raising £261 for Crisis at Christmas in November and £257 in December for inHope, a Bristol charity for homeless and marginalised people.

One of the organisers, Cynthia Troop, said: “We started in 2006 and have served soups from October to May

every year except for the last because of lockdown.

“It is a St Andrew's Church initiative.

The lunches started in aid of Christian Aid, but now only May is for that and other charities (mostly local) are chosen for each month by popular vote.”

Jonathan and Judith Longhurst were running their popular Traidcraft stall, raising nearly £150 for the producers in

Pictured (l to r) Sue Hook, Isabelle Harbour, Barbara Thompson, Shirley Purdy and Sylvia Worthington

PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

developing countries.

Mr Longhurst said: “Our main supplier is Traidcraft, based in Gateshead, and they are reporting that many of their packers are off work with Covid and that orders will therefore be significantly delayed.”

The next soup lunch will be held on January 5th, 12.30-2pm at Chew Stoke Church Hall.

Pictured (l to r) Anne Summers, Gill Wring, Linsey SuensonTaylor, Sheila Limburn, Liz Wormald, Alison Letts and Cynthia Troop

(Photo courtesy of Emli Bendixen)

A COLLAPSED obelisk that once stood on the grave of Shepton Mallet’s “Snowdrop King” James Allen is being recreated by two local artists.

The carved stone memorial to the 19th century Victorian horticulturalist has long since fallen into a state of disrepair. But Shepton Snowdrops, set up to celebrate his legacy and the organisers of the annual snowdrop festival in the town, have raised funds to recreate it.

The work is being carried out by wood carver Amelia Crowley-Roth and stone carver and sculptor Sam Lee, who live near Shepton Mallet.

Dominic Weston, a director of the Shepton Snowdrops Community Interest Company, said: “Thanks to the remarkable James Allen, Shepton Mallet holds a very special place in horticultural history.

“The restoration of his grave and the creation of a new obelisk by two such talented crafts people are a fitting remembrance of a man still known 100 years after his death as the Snowdrop King.”

Together, Amelia and Sam are creating a new design for the 3.1-metre obelisk inspired by flowers bred by Allen in his home town – snowdrops Magnet and Merlin.

The new obelisk will be a focal point of the Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival which returns after a year off due to the pandemic and takes place from February 14th – February 20th.

Meanwhile, festival organisers have announced that Dan

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Supporting and helping others

SELFLESS Somerset people who have gone the extra mile to support their communities have been recognised for their contributions at the Somerset County Council Chairman’s Awards.

A total of 16 individuals and four groups were presented with certificates and pin badges by the authority’s acting chair Councillor Mark Keating at a ceremony in Taunton.

The roll of honour included parish council stalwarts, dedicated volunteers, community lynchpins, and even a longserving Taekwondo teacher.

Amongst the individuals to be honoured were: l Jill Champion, the postmistress in Compton Dundon for many years who has made the Post Office a valuable community asset. Jill also oversees the use of a computer and printer with internet access for residents to use as a community hub. l Mary Hossack formed the “Love Somerton” group which helps to run several events in the town, including organising a Christmas Lights switch-on event every year which brings thousands of people into the town. l Sally Meek was nominated for her dedicated volunteering at The Gateway Club for adults with learning needs based at the Bay Centre in Burnham-on-Sea. Meanwhile, Axbridge Litter Pickers received a group award.

They are a group of residents led by Louise and Barry Walsh along with Malcolm and Mary Owen, who have worked tirelessly to keep the village clean and tidy.

Although the Chairman’s Awards are traditionally held annually, this was the first time they had been held since 2019 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Cllr Keating said: “It is always a great joy to hear the stories of the amazing work our award winners have done to support and help others. Everyone who received an award has done something remarkable and has made a real difference in their communities. It is a privilege to be able to thank them on behalf of the council in this Axbridge Litter Pickers with way.”

Councillor Keating

COMMUNITY

President gets the bird

Postmistress Jill Champion receives her award

Jan Osborne receiving her cockerel sculpture with (l to r) Hazel Wedlake, Sheila.Dobbs, Liz Botham , Jessica McInnes and Joan Williams

CHEW Stoke WI president, Jan Osborne, got a surprise gift when she agreed to stay on although she has served for more than four years.

She said: “During the meeting, Pat Peel, our treasurer, surprised me with a gift on behalf of the members. From a large box, a lovely metal chicken emerged.

“I had recounted the antics of our two chickens in members’ newsletters during lockdown and so I was really touched by this thoughtful present.”

Members said it was the most entertaining AGM they had ever attended. It included a free supper for members, as they had so little in return for their subscriptions during the lockdown.

Their new year begins on Wednesday, January 19th with a talk on The History and Practice of Aromatherapy, starting at 7.30pm in Chew Stoke Church Hall.

Ringers get new bells

STANTON Drew Handbell Ringers now have a complete set of bells thanks to the Pensford, Publow and Stantons Community Trust (PPSCT).

It has given the ringers a generous grant to buy three Whitechapel handbells to complete their two octave chromatic set owned by the village church.

As a thank you the handbell ringers entertained trust members and members of the 100 Club at their annual Christmas prize draw in the village hall.

Mary Payne, from Stanton Drew, introduced the team of Jill Tovey, Hinton Blewitt, Sue Curtis, Winscombe, Gill Lewis, Catherine Davis and Pat Roderick, all from Chew Magna, together with Lucy and Liz Tout, Midsomer Norton.

Mary said: “New members are always welcome. Our team visit many venues both at Christmas and during the year raising money for Cancer Research.”

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 73

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MENDIP TIMES

Village award

Antlers – but no reindeer

Gimme a kiss – Philip Welch, the mayor of Wells with Caroline, his wife and mayoress watched by Andy Coulson and club president Wendy Ray Gavin Heathcote and Karen Walker from the trust with Katie

KATIE Chun has been named as the first ever winner of the new Peasedown St John Community Civic Award.

Peasedown Community Trust, which organised the award, said Katie had gone “above and beyond” in her service to the community this year with her voluntary work at the school and at the Hive.

WELLS Rotarians staged a fundraising Mistletoe and Music event in the city’s Market Square to highlight the umbrella organisation’s campaign to end polio worldwide.

Unable to hold the annual reindeer parade, club members sold mistletoe and felt antlers whilst visitors were entertained by ZZ Birmingham, Helena and Wells City Band. The day raised £727 for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and £330 from donations to the Rotary Polio Plus campaign.

Gold awards

Wells City Band opened the live music

Pictured (l to r) Mary Gray, Jenny Prall and Sue Curtis

DURING The annual Christmas celebration held by the Chew Valley Trefoil Guild in Bishop Sutton, Gold Voyage awards were presented to two members, Sue Curtis and Mary Gray to add to their bronze and silver awards. They were presented county Trefoil chair Jenny Phall.

Sue said: “Everyone enjoyed the celebrations and it was so good to get together and catch up with each other and share many memories of past Rainbow, Brownie, Guide and Ranger camps, sleep overs, pack holidays, Youth Hostel weekends and International trips.”

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Father Christmas was on hand to greet young visitors

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COMMUNITY

Lunch was an absolute cracker MORE than 40 people sat down to five-course feast at the Stoke St Michael Christmas Senior Lunch.

Unable to take place last year, the traditional get-together was organised by the Memorial Hall committee with extra volunteers helping to serve.

Teresa Taylor-Wolff, from the committee, said: “Our thanks go to Wainwrights Quarry for the welcoming drink and contribution to raffle prizes, Somerset Community Foundation for the additional equipment which help the hall produce such a wonderful meal, Somerset Food Resilience for food contributions and of course the additional volunteers who come to help on the day.”

Some of the organisers of the senior lunch

One of the tables of friends from the village

Festive fun

For details about events at the hall, visit: www.stokestmichaelhall.co.uk

Museum reaches out to families

TWO days of free season craft activities have been held at Wells and Mendip Museum as part of a drive to encourage more families to get to know its collections and exhibitions.

The museum is planning more family-friendly events in the New Year after receiving £190,000 in National Lottery Heritage funding in the summer for its Search and Learn project.

Lily, aged three

Rosie, aged eight, with her completed angel

Sophia, aged four

For details, visit: www.wellsmuseum.org.uk MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 75

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MENDIP TIMES

Vintage event for hospital

STATIONARY engines and some unusual vehicles were on show near Faulkland to raise funds for the paediatric unit at Bath’s Royal United Hospital. Enthusiast Charlie Mead organised the event in a field at the Tucker’s Grave Inn.

Dave Mead and daughter Layla, aged six

UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES

Hank Selway, of Paulton, with his latest acquisition, a 1927 wind-up Morris tipper

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QUALITY USED CARS Your peace of mind is our priority

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

PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Ken Rees (left), from Bath, on his BSA trials bike and sidecar with Martin Hirst, from Corsham, on a 1958 AJS 350

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MOTORING

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D dd fS t h

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BATH Motor Club has become the first UK motor club to achieve the new Environmental Sustainability award from Motorsport UK. The club is managing all its environmental aspects including offsetting all its vehicle co2 emissions and heading for “net zero carbon” ahead of the UK Pictured (l to r) Bob Jordon, president, Government’s Dave Whittock, chairman, Jerry Pennell, own targets. secretary and Andy Cross, club A big step environmental champion towards this is local tree planting and habitat creation. The club is working in partnership with local organisation Co-forest to buy and plant new permanent forestry, with members helping with planting.

)

Car club plants trees

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MENDIP TIMES

Fast & Reliable WINDOW INSTALLATION

Boasting a stunning range of aluminium and uPVC window designs and hardware, we’re confident that we have a highly energy efficient and tempting style to suit your South West home or client.

FACTORY & SHOWROOM IN CLEVEDON

We understand how important it is to homeowners and businesses alike, to actually see the quality of products up close. So, why not drop into the Seal-Lite showroom? Come in and see the products for yourself!

Access to Showroom by appointment only

PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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Green homes grants available

RESIDENTS across Mendip could benefit from free energy efficiency improvements worth up to £10,000 after the district council received a share of a multimillion pound government-funded Green Homes Grant Programme, Under the scheme, owner-occupiers will benefit from energy efficiency installations with nothing for them to pay towards the costs of works.

Tenants of rented properties can also access grants of up to £5,000 for energy efficiency upgrades, but the landlord will be expected to contribute at least one third towards the cost of works.

To be eligible for the grants, the residents of the property must have a low income (receive benefits or have the household income below £30,000 per annum) and the EPC for the property must be rated D, E, F or G. If there is no EPC for your property, you can still apply and it doesn’t matter who your energy supplier is. The scheme is being run in conjunction with E.ON and Happy Energy Solutions and is expected to continue until March.

For details, visit: find-energycertificate.digital.communities.gov.uk/

HOMES & INTERIORS

Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists

Woodpecker WP5Plus – 5Kw

Behind Shell Garage Winterstoke Road, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS23 2YS

Tel: 01934 626093 www.westongarden.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 79

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MENDIP TIMES

Fairydust sprinkled on town centre lights SHEPTON MALLET

SHEPTON Mallet’s Fairy Godmother took Santa’s place to switch on the town’s Christmas Lights.

Shepton Rotary Club members selling mince pies for charity

The Fairy Godmother in front of the Market Cross

CAMELEY

PUPILS at Cameley C of E primary school were able to enjoy their annual Christingle service in their new building, with schools’ chaplain, Angela Fraser, leading the service.

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

Fairy Godmother Helen Reader with town council chair Matt Harrison and two young fans

PUBLOW

THE annual Christmas Market, held by All Saints Church members in Publow, was a resounding success, raising £1,469.33 for church funds.

Organiser Judith Hillman, said: “Everyone left with a spring in their step having been part of a thoroughly enjoyable event.”

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Festive market WELLS

AROUND 100 traders filled the Market Square and the Bishop’s Palace Green in Wells for a festive market organised by Mendip District Council.

Reflections in the moat

The market was opened by Councillor Ros Wyke, leader of Mendip District Council – with some help from town crier Len Sweales

Trade was brisk on the fruit and vegetable stall, a fixture of the city’s regular markets

Baker Sarah Dean, from Crewkerne

Mini-pantomime boosts church funds

STANTON DREW

EVERYONE enjoyed a special evening at Stanton Drew village hall which raised £800 for local church funds.

There was Christmas music, a bar, food, entertainment and an amazing minipantomime (pictured) from Stanton Light Opera and Pantomime Society (SLOPS).

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 81

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MENDIP TIMES

Spring concert

YATTON Music Society has Emily Heathcote and her husband Jason Anderson playing as the Sforzandi Duo to open their spring season at St Mary’s on Saturday, January 29th.

The concert starts at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Church, tickets price £10, half price for students over 16, children free.

MUSIC & THEATRE

Choral swansong

Eric (left) presents Peter with an inscribed tankard from the choir

Jason Anderson

Emily Heathcote

Details: www.yms.org.uk or contact David Ford daford220@gmail.com 01934 830255

Singing their hearts out

The group in the barn at Manor Farm in Stratton-on-the-Fosse

A LADIES singing group based in Chilcompton entertained visitors to the Roots Connections Christmas fair in Stratton-on-the-Fosse.

Sing your Heart Out are led by musical director Viv Moon and are available to sing at local functions and events.

They practice on Wednesday evenings at St John’s Church Hall in Chilcompton.

For details, find them on Facebook

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

MENDIP Male Voice Choir chairman Peter Beaven has said goodbye to fellow members after singing with them for 14 years.

For the past seven years, Peter has been chairman of the choir. He is relocating to be near his son and grandchildren. He said: “lt has been a great pleasure and privilege to be part of the choir.”

Secretary Eric Baldwin added: “Peter has been a real asset to the choir having a good voice and an amazing ability to stay calm in the face of different opinions. It goes without saying Peter you will be greatly missed.”

Cathedral’s first female vicar choral WELLS Cathedral has announced the appointment of Natalie Manning as an Alto Vicar Choral.

Natalie is the first woman ever to have been appointed to a full-time position in Wells Cathedral Choir in its 1100-year history. She currently sings in The Choir of Trinity College Cambridge where she is also Choir Administrator.

Prior to relocating to the UK, she was a professional singer and high school choral director in her hometown of Dallas, Texas. A vicar choral is a lay position.

Singers wanted

CONGRESBURY Singers are looking for new recruits, particularly tenor and bass singers. The new term starts on January 11th in the Memorial Hall, Congresbury, 7.45pm. All are welcome.

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RIDING

Changes to the Highway Code

THANKS to Mendip Bridleways and Byways Association for the following news about changes to the Highway Code which will affect all road users when meeting horses on our roads.

Guidance stating that horses should be passed at a maximum of 10mph and at a minimum of two metres’ distance are among the “significant” improvements in the proposed changes.

Also, cyclists must not pass riders on the inside and should

h t fJ t

Bentley (Iron) winning 8th place at Pau

Amongst the notable horses Selina has produced over the years, eventing enthusiasts may remember Orlando, Bodidily, and more recently, Dargun. There must be a certain reward and pride for Selina, seeing these horses go on to do well after being in her care where they were introduced to competition.

You would have to be very lucky not to experience the highs and lows in eventing. It’s undoubtedly a high risk sport. Horses go lame at the last minute, injury can happen to anyone, and having one pole down in the final show jumping phase can cost several places on the leader board.

Selina’s career hasn’t been all pain free. There have been substantial injuries along the way, including a broken pelvis at Lumühlen in Germany, as well as a broken leg and fractured neck vertebrae at various times, so it’s not a career for the faint hearted – more an addiction, some would say!

It takes guts and a single-mindedness plus an enormous amount of hard work to even come close to success in the sport.

At home Selina has two full-time staff to help her, as well as an on-site farrier and vet, who also happens to be her husband!

With young daughter Harriet now riding as well, they make a good team. The plan for next season is for Iron (known as Bentley at home) to go to Badminton Horse trials and Cooley Snapchat will move on up through the levels to hopefully emulate his stable mate.

Following a short holiday or winding down period now, all the horses will now be brought back into work and full fitness and be ready to compete again in the spring. It’s a 24/7 job and a way of life working with horses. There are peaks and troughs and mixed fortunes, but the good results when they are achieved, are worth working for.

We wish Selina all the luck in the world for next season. For fixtures and results see the British Eventing website.

call out when approaching or passing horses to alert the rider.

Head cams are recommended for all horse riders to record any non-compliance.

The “statutory instrument”, which includes a number of other changes, was laid before parliament on December 1st and is subject to a 40-day approval process. Should there be no objections, they will apply as part of the Highway Code from the end of January.

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 83

(Ph t

THE equestrian eventing season finished at the end of October after an exciting year.

Team GB won Olympic Gold for the first time since 1972 and despite some events being cancelled because of either the weather or Covid, there was plenty to enjoy for followers of the sport. We are lucky here in the South West to be able to have great With JANE days out at the shows, either helping out or PATERSON just spectating.

Local international event rider Selina Milnes, who is based at her own yard near Yatton, has had plenty of success both at home and abroad this year, ending the season with two fantastic placings at different top venues in France, which she managed to fit into one trip!

The logistics of organising that take some thinking about. Two horses and all their gear, competing at different levels in two different places, is pretty mind boggling, especially since Brexit.

Selina comes from a nonhorsey background but started riding around five years old and had her own first pony when she was 11. Always fiercely determined and competitive, she was fully supported by her parents and encouraged to follow her dreams.

University was something which she did consider . . . until the exams at school Cooley Snapchat at Le Lion in interfered with being on Pony Western France Club teams! From working her way up through the levels, firstly keeping her horses at livery and having as much training as she could from local mentors, Selina established her own business breaking and producing horses, taking liveries, and running a competition yard.

She now has some seriously good owners and has been able to build a string of very talented horses who compete at the top levels, while also investing in several youngsters of her own to bring on and produce, and possibly sell.

)

Eventing is not for the faint-hearted

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MENDIP TIMES

Cycling along safer roads

TRANSPORT for London recently paused an advertising campaign promoting road safety towards cyclists after a CYCLING backlash of with EDMUND complaints – from LODITE cyclists! In the film, a driver is seen slamming on her brakes after almost knocking a cyclist off his bike. At first the pair begin an altercation blaming each other for the incident.

Then as the rage subsides, they slip into a moment of reflection and check on how each other feels before a voiceover concludes: “If we understood how we really make each other feel, our roads would be safer.”

The purpose of the “See their side.

See safer roads” campaign is to highlight the lack of empathy and understanding that road users often have for each other.

The concept behind the well-made film, namely in seeing things from someone else’s perspective is great, so why has there been so much negative feedback?

The problem is the portrayal of “false equivalence” and the lack of ownership for responsibility. In the advert, the car driver is clearly in the wrong making an illegally close pass and almost colliding with the cyclist, yet both are portrayed with equal blame.

Those walking and cycling are much more vulnerable than those driving a motor vehicle and impending changes to the highway code will better define the responsibilities of all road users.

One of the fundamental changes is the introduction of the “Hierarchy of Road Users”, recognising that those who pose greater risks to others ought to have a higher level of responsibility.

The new code will also simplify the rules at non-signalised junctions.

Vehicles turning where no signals are in place should give way to pedestrians or cyclists going straight ahead across their path, unless traffic signs, signals or markings say otherwise.

In other words, the person going straight ahead would have right of way over the person turning left. This

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

should reduce “left hook” collisions and make it easier to maintain cycle track priority at junctions.

Another important change is on minimum overtaking distances. The new rule will require that drivers should “leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds”.

All of these are welcome changes and long overdue. However, it also means that as cyclists we must carry our own burden of responsibility by riding safely and being aware of the risk to pedestrians.

A lot of safety features on bikes are there to protect the cyclist – helmets and lights etc. Yet there is one seldom used piece of equipment that is there to warn and protect pedestrians – the humble bicycle bell.

A pedestrian being approached from behind along a lane or shared use path will not hear an oncoming cyclist. So, it’s only fair to give them advance warning in case they suddenly change direction. It also avoids the element of unwelcome surprise as you suddenly pass by.

I’ve seen cyclists try and do this by shouting ahead but that can come across as arrogant and rude or as “get out of my way”.

The legal position is that bikes are fitted with a bell when they are sold as new but there is no legal requirement to keep them on bicycles or use them on the road. The Highway Code merely suggests that cyclists “should be considerate of other road users, particularly blind and partially sighted pedestrians”.

I think that’s a reasonable thing to ask for. Like wearing a facemask for Covid it’s there to protect others from you.

In trying to balance the debate about the rights of cyclists, pedestrians and cars its worth noting that in some cases the cyclist can be the problem.

Recently, I heard of a lady who was walking along a lane near Stanton Drew and was hit from behind by a cyclist who refused to stop and give his name to her husband.

She ended up in hospital with several injuries. Such instances are cowardly and rare, but sadly demonstrates that all road users including cyclists have a responsibility to others.

JANUARY CROSSWORD SOLUTION

ACROSS: 1. Somerset Day 9. Attenuate 10. Clown 11. Earwig 12. Spray gun 13.

Pulpit 15. Flattery 17. Eel 18. Feminine 19. Uses up 21. Cobblers 23. Sprint 26.

Orate 27. Impulsive 28. Eleventh may. DOWN: 1. Shake-up 2. Motor 3. Rendition 4. Exam 5. Deed poll 6. Yucca 7. Tenancy 8. Congress 14. Lima bean 15. Fee 16.

Test pilot 17. Energise 18. Factory 20. Putrefy 22. Liege 24. Idiom 25. Épée

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SPORT

National award for Chew Valley RFC CHEW Valley RFC have earned a national award as team of the month from the RFU after topping the Tribute South West 1 league for most of the year in their first full season since promotion.

It’s the highest award in the club’s 50year history. In 2020 they were riding high in their first season in the league, until Covid caused it to be abandoned.

This year they were unbeaten in every game, apart from defeat away to Devonport Services, beating local rivals like Keynsham and Bridgwater and Albion.

They then suffered their first home defeat in an error-strewn game against St Austell 6-19. As Mendip Times went to press they were third in the league behind St Austell and Devonport.

The club is continuing to expand having recently bought land for its junior section. It’s also spearheading a national scheme to mentor young players.

Meanwhile the 2nd XV captained by James Stone top Somerset 1 and are on track to move to Somerset Premier from which the 1st XV were promoted in 2013.

MATCH REPORT

Chew Valley 6 – St. Austell 19

IN an absorbing contest between two well-drilled sides, it was St Austell who came out on top due to making fewer mistakes.

Full back Tom Bryan and visiting outside half Matt Shepard traded penalties and although the visitors crossed the line three times in the half, superb maul defence kept them out and it was six apiece at the break.

Shepard nudged his side ahead shortly after the restart with a penalty.

St Austell second row Tony Knight, who must top out at 6’14” guaranteed lineout possession while the scrums were even.

Chew Valley lost prop Frank Worle to injury and with hooker Jack Monk carded later this was to prove pivotal.

Visiting prop Charlie Nicholson scored off a driving maul after an hour but Chew Valley pressure on the visitors saw the flanker binned for collapsing a maul, but when No 8 Kyle Marriott committed the same offence at the next lineout there was no sanction other than a penalty.

The ball was held up during the next drive and the ball cleared from the goal line drop-out.

The yellow card to Monk for a high tackle midfield meant uncontested scrums and a player off, so down to 13. Immediately off the penalty Shepard scored to take his side two scores clear.

Back to full strength, Chew Valley battered the visitors’ line and replacement Cameron Taylor was binned.

Chew Valley should have had a penalty try as livewire scrum half Matt Thompson was tackled by a player not retiring with the line at his mercy.

The ref blew for time with no advantage off a scrum penalty at the death.

Andrew Tanner Chew Valley RFC President

Bear watching for Wells coach Alex

Alex (left) discusses the 2nd XV’s 5-8 loss to Somerton with the opposition. He oversaw the match after the 1st XV’s game against Bristol Harlequins was called off due to Covid

WELLS RFC head coach Alex Simons has begun an internship with Bristol Bears Women as part of a sports coaching degree at the University of the West of England.

The internship consists of performance analysis at the Bears’ state-of-the-art high performance centre.

Alex said: “I hope that what I learn whilst with the Bristol Bears Women will have a positive benefit on all the players here at Wells.”

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 85

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MENDIP TIMES

Nativity Festival WELLS

CHRISTMAS EVENTS Audrey, aged threeand-a-half

SAINT Cuthbert’s in Wells saw the return of its fundraising Nativity Festival featuring around 200 displays throughout the church. The displays raised funds for two charities.

Sharon, George and Jack (front) admire one of the displays

Philip Welch, the mayor of Wells with mayoress Caroline Welch, vicar the Rev Sam Denyer, and some of the stewards

CONGRESBURY

Christmas and craft fair

BITING winds did not deter local villagers from flocking to Congresbury for the revived Broad Street Christmas Fair and the craft fair held in the newly-restored War Memorial Hall.

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022

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Pauline’s passions: farming, photography and the countryside

A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition documenting two decades of farming life on the Blackdown Hills opens at the Somerset Rural Life Museum on Saturday, January 8th.

Pauline Rook, who is based in Somerset, was commissioned in 2002 by the Countryside Agency to create a photographic record of the area. Her brief was to capture the Blackdowns’ “spirit and essence”. The commission ignited a love of this unique corner of Somerset and Pauline has now been photographing the landscape for almost 20 years.

Over this period she has explored hundreds of miles of country lanes and paths, getting to know the individuals, countryside and buildings that make the Blackdowns so distinctive.

Pauline, who was a dairy farmer for 20 years, said: “My principal passion continues to be working in the rural environment. I built up a photographic archive for the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty when it was newly designated.

“This relatively under-populated and inaccessible landscape of small farms and many lanes continues to fascinate and delight me.

I love to include farm animals in my pictures – my years of farming and having my own flock of sheep have come in handy.”

The exhibition will bring together more than 50 photographs and includes a selection of Pauline’s most recent work, captured

WHAT’S ON

Libby Lister milking her golden Guernsey goat at Dennetts Farm, Wambrook

using the infrared techniques she began to learn during lockdown.

On Saturday, January 8th and Saturday, February 12th Pauline will be at the museum for a Meet the Artist event. Also on the 12th, Pauline will be giving an illustrated talk as part of the museum’s Talk and Tea series.

Sam Astill, Head of Museums for the South West Heritage Trust, said: “The photographs tell a tale of rural survival as well giving an insight into the working practices of an accomplished Somerset photographer. We’re delighted to be exhibiting Pauline’s work in the museum whose many exhibits further explore the history of farming in the county.”

The exhibition runs until March 19th. For more information and to book your visit go to www.srlm.org.uk

Hello – Suffolk cross sheep near Dalwood

Charity concert

NAILSEA Lions are planning a Sea Shanty and Folk Concert on Saturday, February 26th, featuring two excellent, local groups who are well known throughout the South West.

High and Dry, based in and around the Mendips, have been singing sea shanties for a number of years and recently performed at the St Ives Shanty Shout and organised the Bristol Shanty Festival.

BadgerSet are a band of folk singers, musicians and dancers.

The concert will be in the auditorium at Nailsea School, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost just £7.50.

The main beneficiaries will be the RLNI and Children’s Hospice South West.

Details: Phil Taylor 01275 462195

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2022 • PAGE 87

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MENDIP TIMES

Hippodrome hosts world premiere of musical

(Photograph courtesy of Johan Persson)

ENTER a world of magic and fantasy as Disney’s classic movie Bedknobs and Broomsticks makes its world premiere as an exciting new musical at the Bristol Hippodrome.

With the original songs by the legendary Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), including Portobello Road, The Age Of Not

Reflections on life

MUSICIANS Paul and Rachel Branston have written a new work, Reflections, which will be performed at St Bartholomew’s Church in Ubley on Sunday, January 2nd, 3pm.

Paul said: “It gave us the opportunity to be able to produce something which hopefully will cause people to stop and think about the state of The Earth and our place in the universe.

Perhaps it will help prompt us to value what we have and protect it for future generations.”

They are inviting singers to take part and will be selling CDs in aid of local churches, the Salvation Army and PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.

Details: www.rachelbranston.co.uk or 01761 220102

WHAT’S ON

Believing, The Beautiful Briny, and new music and lyrics by Neil Bartram and book by Brian Hill; Bedknobs and Broomsticks will be brought to life by award-winning theatre-makers Candice Edmunds and Jamie Harrison.

When the three orphaned Rawlins children are reluctantly evacuated from wartime London to live with the mysterious Eglantine Price, they have no idea what adventures lie ahead.

Upon discovering Eglantine to be a trainee witch, they join forces to search for a secret spell that will defeat the enemy once and for all.

Armed with an enchanted bedknob, a bewitched broomstick and a magical flying bed, they encounter surprising new friendships on their journey from Portobello Road to the depths of the beautiful briny sea.

This magical new musical flies into The Bristol Hippodrome from Wednesday, January 26th – Saturday, January 29th, so book your tickets today! It’s time to start believing.

Have you visited recently?

BEING run by the oldest agricultural society in the country, that was founded in 1777, the Bath and West Showground near Shepton Mallet is an integral part of the area’s community.

If you have not visited recently, you may not realise that the showground is the home of a whole host of different events taking place every weekend throughout the year.

After a challenging 18 months, the showground is finally getting back to its busy post-Covid calendar, with events including the Giant Flea Market, Boden Clothes Sale, Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show, The Royal Bath & West Show & NASS Festival making a return to the showground this year.

The showground will also be welcoming some new events later in the year.

Details: www.bathandwestshowground.com

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MENDIP TIMES

T H E M E N D I P T I M E S W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

FOR

WHAT’S ON

J A N U A RY 2022

As Covid cases are rising so quickly we advise that you check that these events will take place. We’re happy to list entries for community groups and charity fundraisers free of charge. Commercial entries £25. Please send entries as a single paragraph of less than 25 words.

Until Sunday January 9th Cinderella, Bath Theatre Royal.

Monday December 27th Binegar’s “Bonkers Barrow Run” festive wheelbarrow race. Teams of four £10/team.

Pre-booking essential: 07528 169533. Horse & Jockey 3pm. Raising funds for The Mendip School.

Wednesday December 29th Christmas Music at Draycott, 7pm St Peter’s church. Details: 01934 744838.

Friday December 31st New Year’s Eve Spectacular Glastonbury Town Hall. Details: www.glastonburyabbey.com Thursday January 6th Congresbury Gardening Club talk by Colin Higgins “Gardening for insects”, 7.30pm Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome.

Saturday January 8th Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws, dvds Sunday January 9th Mendip Society walk: 5.5m from Blackmoor to views over Blagdon and Chew Valley lakes.

ST505556. Meet 1.30pm Blackmoor Reserve car park nr Charterhouse BS40 7XR. Nonmembers welcome. No need to book. Contact Peter 01761 221995.

Monday January 10th “The Backwell Brick and Other Industries of a Somerset Village” talk by Roy Ackrill to the Nailsea & District Local History Society, 7.45pm, Green Lecture Room, Nailsea School.

Visitors £2. www.ndlhs.org.uk Tuesday January 11th The Arts Society Mendip “Georgia: Land of the Golden Fleece” Ian Osborne describes the origins of the legend, 11am Croscombe village hall; simultaneously via Zoom. Guests welcome on request: tasmendip.comm@gmail.com Guest donation £6.

Wednesday January 12th Kilmersdon Gardeners talk by Helena Crouch "Flora of the Cam & Wellow Valleys", 7.30pm Village Hall BA3 5TD All welcome. visitors £3, incl tea /coffee. www.kilmersdongardeners.org Mendip Storytelling Circle 7.30 – 9.30pm NEW venue, Ston Easton village hall BA3 4DA. An evening of folk tales and more. £5 donation. Confirm details: mendipstorycircle@gmail.com Saturday January 15th Aquinas Piano Trio 7.30pm All Saints Church Wrington BS40 5LG. Tickets £12.50 to £16.50 from tickets@churchillmusic.org.uk or Somerset Rural Life Museum Wassail, Glastonbury. 6.45 for 7.30pm. Adults £12,

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children over 5 £8, incl refreshments. Booking essential: www.swheritage.org.uk/somersetrural-life-museum Claverham Market 10am-12pm Village Hall.

Butcher, vegetables, jams & chutneys, books, jigsaws, crafts etc. 01934 830553.

Sunday January 16th Glastonbury Abbey Wassail 2 to 3.30pm.

Singing, toast & cider. Normal admission charges: www.glastonburyabbey.com Bishop Sutton Wassail from 3pm in the orchard, Bonhill Rd, BS39 5TS. Please park elsewhere in the village. Adults £5, children £2.50 inc hotdog. Tickets from 07742 252723 after Jan 1st. Raising funds for village school.

Monday January 17th Congresbury Memorial Hall Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall.

Visitors welcome.

Saturday January 22nd Jumble & Upcycle Sale 2pm, Winscombe Community Centre. Bargains, refreshments and raffle. Please bring donations from 9.30.

Details: 07811 292909.

Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaws, dvds.

Wednesday January 26th Harptrees History Society: An Historical Miscellany of short talks, 7.15pm for 7.30 West Harptree Village Hall BS40 6EG. Visitors welcome, £3. Please wear mask. Chairs wellspaced so places must be booked: info@harptreeshistorysociety.org Backwell and Nailsea Macular Support, Backwell W.I. Hall, 1.30pm. Details: 01275 462107.

Thursday January 27th “Snow Cats and Snow Wolves” talk by former Natural History Unit editor Pete Brownlee about films made with Gordon Buchanan.

7.45pm Chew Magna Old School Rooms, £2.50.

Saturday, January 29th Sfortzandi Duo Concert: clarinet and piano, 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Yatton, Tickets £10, details: www.yms.org.uk “Comic and Curious” an evening of songs, music and verse by local performers, 7pm Allerton Church. Drinks & nibbles for sale.

Tickets £5 from: 01934 351098 / 710188 or 713402.

Saturday January 29th and Sunday 30th Somerset Vintage & Classic Tractor Show Bath & West Showground. Indoor static tractors with auction on 29th. Details: www.somersettractorshow.com Monday January 31st Wessex stationary engine club meeting 8pm Old Down Inn Embourgh. All welcome.

Congresbury Memorial Hall Friendship evening with Bingo, 8pm War Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome Tuesday February 1st The Arts Society Mendip “The History and Culture of Al-Andulas” Ian Cockburn tells of the Moorish Invasion and culture of Iberia from 711 to 1492. 11am Croscombe village hall; simultaneously via Zoom. Guests welcome, on request to tasmendip.comm@gmail.com. Guest donation £6.

Monday February 14th “The History of Clifton Observatory” talk by Mary Coward to the Nailsea & District Local History Society, 7.45pm, Green Lecture Room, Nailsea School. Visitors £2. www.ndlhs.org.uk Monday February 14th-20th Shepton Snowdrop Festival. See P72.

Thursday February 17th Shipham Gardening Club talk by Ian Anderson: “The nature of Somerset”, 7.30pm Shipham village hall, BS25 1SG. All welcome.

RABBIT COMPETITION WINNER

As you can see, we had a huge response to our Spot the Rabbit competition.

Shirley Hoskins from Cheddar is the lucky winner of a hamper of cheese and wine from Ford Farm Cheese and Wookey Hole Caves.

Congratulations!

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