Issue 7 - Volume 13 - Mendip Times

Mendip Times

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VOLUME 13 ISSUE 7

WIN A FESTIVE HAMPER See page 117

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Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

DECEMBER 2017

S E A SO N ’ S GR E E T I N GS T O A L L OU R R E A D E RS !

Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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Welcome

MOST national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty have a centre to showcase what their area has to offer. Now could Mendip be about to get something similar?

The Burrington Inn and former garden centre next door, close to the Rock of Ages, have been bought by Holt Farms, the company behind Yeo Valley.

We bid farewell to John Godfrey, who has had the pub for 30 years, and hear how the new owners are starting a consultation about plans for a new “gateway” to the Mendips in Burrington Combe.

We look forward to Christmas with features on food, music and gifts and preview some of the many events being planned across the area.

As usual we have a large number of pages devoted to charities and the work of community groups – the spirit of Christmas shines all year round here.

We’ve pictures from Remembrance Sunday, carnival and from the national hedgelaying championship at Stourhead.

We join 150th year celebrations at Wincanton Racecourse – and Chew Magna Baptist Chapel.

We meet the youngster who might be destined to be the next Lewis Hamilton and look back to when strawberries were king in Cheddar.

With all of our usual features and contributors, may we wish you a memorable Mendip Christmas.

January 2018 deadline: Friday, 8th December 2017.

Published: Tuesday, 19th December 2017.

Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk Rachael Abbott rachael@mendiptimes.co.uk Publisher: Mendip Times Limited Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone:

01761 463888

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

Front cover: Cary Comedians at Shepton Mallet Carnival.

Photograph by Mark Adler. See page 14.

CONTENTS

Oh, what a show! – carnival just gets better

14

30

Mendip tributes – pictures from remembrance services

124

98

Let’s dance – Wells mayor joins in Rotary fun

Freddie is a dreamer – a future F1 champ?

Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE ..........10 Food & Drink ...............................18 Internet and Crossword ..............28 Arts & Antiques ...........................36 Business.........................................44 Christmas Gifts ............................50 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......65 Walking Sue Gearing ....................66 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........68

Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......70 Health Dr Phil Hammond .............82 Charities........................................86 Caving Phil Hendy ........................96 Community ...................................98 Homes and Interiors ..................108 Music ...........................................114 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE...116 Sport ............................................120 What’s On...................................125 MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 3

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We name these classrooms . . .

Andrew Joliffe and Cherry Beath prepare to cut the ribbon watched by joint heads Sue Jones and Cathie Lampert and members of the school council

PUPILS at St Mary’s primary school in Writhlington are so pleased with their new classrooms that they are running a competition to name them.

The new two-room teaching block was required to enable the school to expand from 140 to 210 places. One pupil said: “I love that we have lots of windows so you can see the greenery.”

Teaching staff are working with the school council to choose the names. Councillor Cherry Beath, chair of Bath and North East Somerset Council, and Andrew Jolliffe whose father, Lord Hylton, donated land for the project, performed the opening ceremony.

Pupils from the Dance Club entertain guests at the opening

Outdoor classroom bid

A VILLAGE school near Shepton Mallet is hoping to win the support of shoppers for its proposed outdoor classroom project.

St Aldhelm’s in Doulting is one of three schemes selected for the current Bags of Help funding initiative at Tesco in Shepton Mallet. The other contenders are Castle Cary Town Council for their proposed community pump track and Age UK Somerset for its work in Shepton. Voting, via tokens, continues until the end of December.

The outdoor classroom has been on St Aldhelm’s wish list for some time, but say recent education cuts had virtually made it impossible to proceed. It would provide a shaded/sheltered learning space for outdoor curriculum and story sessions. The building would be large enough for an entire class. Headteacher, Tess Kaunhoven, said: “We want our children to enjoy and appreciate the great outdoors. Our outdoor classroom will give us a sheltered learning space where they can make the most of their environment.”

Zen and the art of a hospital patient

NEWS

Will found inspiration by the moat at the Bishop’s Palace. The photographer is a familiar sight around the city

PHOTOGRAPHER Will Glenn gave a CD of some of his autumnal images of leaves floating on the water of the Bishop’s Palace Moat in Wells as a thank you to the nurse for the care he received and friendship they had formed when he was an out-patient at the hospital where she worked.

Charlotte, the nurse, viewed the photos – part of a series by Will called Zen and the Art of Autumn – after a particularly stressful day and they so relaxed her that she insisted they should be seen by a wider audience. Currently, 15, A3-sized photos can be seen in the out-patients gallery at Yeovil District Hospital – Will’s first official exhibition.

Will, aged 69, who lives in Wells and was being treated for cancer, said: “I’d struck up a good rapport with the nurse and wanted to say thank you. One day I received a phone call from her to say that she’d seen the photos after Autumn Art by Mother Nature a really hard day at work and they made her feel transformed.

“There’d been a fantastic exhibition there by a sports photographer and I said I was not in the same league, but Lottie said ‘you’re wrong; you’re an artist and you are seeing things that others don’t’.”

Yeovil Hospital Arts Co-ordinator Caroline Barnes added: “The images are incredibly crisp and colourful illustrating the rich reds, oranges and browns we associated with the season, but what makes these images so special is the dark, almost black contrast of the water.”

Will’s images are on sale with a percentage of net profits going to Yeovil Hospital Charity and Macmillan Cancer Suppert. More of Will’s work can be found at http://earthhart.deviantart.com

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Flower power in Shepton

Rich seam of finds for fossil hunters

Around 220 people took part in the hunt on the batch Planting snowdrop bulbs at Showering’s Cider Mill

GARDENING writer Naomi Slade will be taking part in the 2018 Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival, organisers have announced.

Naomi, a contributor to the BBC’s Gardening World series, will be one of the speakers during the weekend of events in February. Meanwhile, preparations for the second annual event are well underway with organisers more than doubling the number of snowdrops they have planted around the town from 60,000 to 130,000.

Funding for the work has come from local sources such as Section 106 planning condition monies awarded by Mendip District Council with most of the planting undertaken by landscape contractors idverde. But they were not alone. On a drizzly Saturday, the 1st Shepton Mallet Beaver Group mustered volunteers to help plant an orchard opposite the Showering’s Cider Mill. The bulbs were sponsored by Brother’s Drinks and the display will be easily visible to passers-by.

Group Leader Roger BouDominic Weston, one of the Aoun said: “Each of the festival organisers youngsters earned their gardening and community badges.”

Bristol-based Naomi will be presenting a talk on Sunday, February 18th on how to get the best out of snowdrops in a garden, whether a sweeping lawn with the little white blossoms or creating a cute container display for the smallest of back yards.

She will also be selling and signing copies of her book ‘The Plant Lover’s Guide to Snowdrops’ in association with Kew Royal Botanic Gardens.

Meanwhile, entries are now open for the festival’s poetry and photography competitions. The closing date for both is January 14th. The judges will be poet Alison Brackenbury and photographer Bill Bradshaw.

The festival takes place from Friday, February 16th – Sunday, February 18th. For details, visit: www.sheptonsnowdropfestival.org.uk

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MORE than 200 fossil hunters scoured the Writhlington Colliery batch on an organised search after work was carried out to clear the area of undergrowth.

Thanks to grants from Big Local and the Bristol Naturalists’ Society, the batch, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, has had work carried out to “turn over” the ground to expose more fossils.

The work and the family-friendly fossil hunt was organised by Somerset Coalfield Life at Radstock Museum.

Geologist Simon Carpenter and a team of museum volunteers helped to identify the fossils found and gave tips on preserving them.

Radstock is famous for the fossil of a piece of dragonfly wing, which was found on Tyning Batch around 1910, and proved at the time to be the largest insect of Small hammers were used to its kind ever found, with a crack open the rocks to wingspan of half a metre. This reveal their secrets fossil is now in the Sedgwick Museum in Cambridge. Writhlington School has the dragonfly logo because of the fossil connection. ● Simon recently told the museum that, about 40 years ago, a friend was offered a near-complete dragonfly fossil with a wingspan of about three-to-four inches for £25 but could not afford it. The museum would like to hear from anyone who knows the whereabouts of the fossil. Museum Development Officer Miranda Lichfield can be reached on 01761 437722 or by email at: development@radstockmuseum.co.uk

The fossil hunt was family-friendly

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A cut above the rest

COMPETITORS from across England and Wales gathered at Stourhead for the 2017 National Hedgelaying Championship.

Spread across 11 classes, the 39th championship was as much a celebration of the different, regional styles of hedgelaying as it was to win the bragging rights as supreme champion. Fifteen hedgelayers competed in the North Somerset classes as more than 100 men and a number of women laid their “stint” in the style of the area from which they came.

Judges with specialist knowledge of each style awarded points for the quality of the work before another judge selected the supreme champion. Robin Dale, the judge of the Lancashire and Westmorland open class said: “The tiniest detail can make the difference between winning and losing.”

ENVIRONMENT

Some of the North Somerset competitors at the end of the day

Supreme champion Malcolm Johnson of Staffordshire with NHLS chairman David Smith and National Trust tenant farmer who hosted the event Hayley Dorrington, of Winscombe, tidies up her stretch of hedge

Chris Chivers, of Midsomer Norton

Mike Reed (far right) receives a commemorative tankard from Clive Bethell and Andrew Ford

North Somerset judges David Keedwell and Andrew Ford cast an expert eye over proceedings; competitors had five hours in which to lay their section

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Waste sugar is icing on the cake for Mendip’s bees

BEEKEEPERS have come up with a novel way to help their hives survive a cold and wet winter – sugar left over when doughnuts are baked.

Members of the central division of the Somerset Beekeepers Association have struck a deal with Tesco in Shepton Mallet to take away the unwanted sugar, which would otherwise go to waste and be thrown away. They use the sugar – Tesco is also donating any split bags – to make a syrup which the bees can use as a source of food.

Maggie Norris, from the central division, said: “We all love doughnuts and when Tesco finishes baking its doughnuts they are rolled in lots of sugar. The leftover sugar becomes a waste product and until recently has been thrown away.

“Tesco at Shepton Mallet approached us and they have agreed to donate their waste sugar and split bags to us so we can use it to Beekeeper Maggie Norris (left) with Deborah make sugar Towner, from Tesco syrup to feed our bees. This means that every time you buy a doughnut you are helping the local bees to survive the cold weather.” ● The central division is running a beginners’ course for budding beekeepers starting in February at Whitstone Academy in Shepton Mallet. For details, visit: www.somersetbeekeepers.org.uk/centralbeginners-course.html

Festival was a blast!

Organisers and speakers at the conference were joined by the mayor and mayoress of Wells, John and Gail North

THE annual Mendip Rocks! festival of geology and archaeology came to an end with a sold-out day of lectures at the Wells and Mendip Museum.

Speakers at A Blast from the Past ranged from David Rowley, head of geology at Wells Cathedral School, to archaeologist Professor Danielle Schreve.

The festival was organised by the Somerset Earth Science Centre, the Mendip Hills AONB and the Mendip Society.

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ENVIRONMENT

Somerset leads on recycling

IT is 20 years since all six Somerset councils – five districts and the county – formally agreed to jointly drive forward an environmental agenda to help households waste less, recycle more and save money.

And it is ten years since that agreement was transformed into the innovative Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) which has seen recycling increase from barely 15% to its present 52%. It says since 1997, Somerset’s waste history shows how the commitment of residents to recycling has helped it pioneer new ways of working.

These include launching the UK’s first major weekly collection of household food waste and later ensuring that all collected food waste is consumed by billions of "burping bacteria" at Somerset’s £10m anaerobic digestion plant to produce power for the grid and farm compost to grow more food.

In another UK first, Somerset began tracking every tonne of recycling to establish an annual end-use register of where it all goes and what it may become. At the same time, new recycling sites were built, older sites revamped and new materials added, such as cooking oil and beverage cartons, so their recycling rates today average more than 75%.

The long-serving chair of SWP’s governing Somerset Waste Board, Cllr Derek Yeomans, said: “Somerset’s waste progress over the decades has been impressive, thanks to its residents’ commitment to recycling, giving us great confidence of continued improvements in the years to come.”

Frome’s favourite tree

A CEDAR of Lebanon tree in Bath Street in Frome has been voted the town’s favourite in a poll of residents.

Frome Town Council asked people to vote for their favourite from a shortlist of ten trees suggested by the public ahead of the launch of The mayor of Frome, Sheila Gore, their tree charter, which demonstrating the sheer size of the aims to protect trees Cedar of Lebanon tree and woods, preserve habitats for diverse species and plant for the future.

The votes were counted by Cara Naden and Clementine Conlon-Spears from the council. They said: “We’d like to say a big thank you to everybody who offered their nominations for Frome’s favourite tree and also to everybody who got online and voted. It’s been uplifting to hear your heart-warming stories.”

For details, visit: www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk

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Tel: 0800 097 8611

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WESTON-SUPER-MARE | BRISTOL | CLEVEDON | YATTON | WEDMORE

Firstly, we are pleased to announce the results of the BGW Quiz at which the Glastonbury office team known as the “Gorgeous Glastonbury Gladiators” (photographed) romped home in first place. It would not be fair to disclose which team was awarded the wooden spoon. We all had a great evening and are grateful to Libby Rae and Dervla Nash who

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organised and hosted the evening.

Once again Christmas is approaching fast. Traditionally, Christmas is the time of year to be thankful so …

A big thank you to all our staff whose energy, enthusiasm and diligence enables us to provide the service of which we are justly proud.

Thanks also go to our professional and other business contacts. We have very much enjoyed working with you this year and we hope to do more in 2018.

Most of all we give sincere thanks to our Clients. Whether regular or occasional, we value each and every one and we are touched by the loyalty shown by those that return to us, sometimes after several years, because they remember our good service. We are grateful to all of you and wish you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

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Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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Paying the price for going organic

READERS may remember I mentioned organic farming a couple of months ago. To that end I have been talking to organic dairy farmer Lester Lavington of Chapel Pill Farm, Ham Green, near Bristol.

The first thing to know about organic farming is the set of principles to be With MARY followed set out by the Soil Association.

JAMES MBE Organic is strictly regulated and it takes at least three years to convert a normal farm to organic and become registered by the Soil Association.

The main principles are: no fertiliser, no pesticides and any drugs/antibiotics to be used only on a welfare basis. An example would be lameness in an animal but first the foot is inspected before giving antibiotic as perhaps it may not be needed.

Chapel Pill Farm is 450 acres. There are 250 dairy cows with grass, maize silage and home-grown cereals. The cows are housed in winter in cubicles with a fully computerised herringbone parlour, but by April they are out in the fields.

Calving starts in June and they calve outside. Calves are fed on whole milk for 12 weeks. Cows are served beginning September 1st. Homeopathic remedies mostly added to water troughs are used to help reduce any mastitis or other ailments.

Grass alone is not enough to raise milk yields so a special “cake” is fed in the parlour at milking time which is virtually the same as normal “cake” but it has to be wholly organic wheat and barley with minerals which is pelleted. It is very expensive.

Christmas opening times: 27th December – 30th December 8.30am – 1pm Check out our new website: mowersandtrimmers.co.uk

PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Cows are also fed on silage and whole crop which is corn or maize cut before normal maturity. With all the extra expense of organic it stands to reason that the product will be more expensive. The milk from Chapel Pill Farm goes to a local dairy making organic cheese.

Slurry goes into a separator where the resulting liquid is sprayed on the grass fields with the solid going onto the corn stubble. As for the arable crops Lester follows a strict rotation.

Spring wheat, planted in the spring of course, is harvested in July as a whole crop.

Then the stubble is direct drilled with forage rape (eg stubble turnips) which will be grazed by heifers all winter. The following spring high protein wheat is planted, harvested as whole crop and followed by red clover (which puts fertility back into the soil) and Italian rye grass.

In the third year the land is ploughed again with high protein wheat, harvested in July as whole crop then planted with perennial rye grass and white clover. So that is a four-year cycle and then it starts again for another four years. Lester declares the whole farm operation uses no more fuel than normal and staff levels are the same.

So there you have it. Organic food is more expensive and rightly so. The choice is yours.

This year seems to have passed so quickly but the weather has been more problematic than usual for farming. Perhaps we would say that! Here’s wishing you all a very Happy Christmas with lots of wonderful tasty British Food on your table.

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Digging for charity

A METAL detecting club from South Wales took to land near Shepton Mallet for a day-long rally, raising funds in the process for the agricultural charity Farming Community Network.

Gwent Detecting Club had permission from the landowner to search a recently-harvested field and soon found a number of coins, including a Charles I shilling and a Victorian sixpence.

The club – founded in 1977 – is one of the biggest in Wales and donates all the fees paid by members who attend searches to various charities. So far it has raised more than £43,000.

Paul (club nickname Dragon’s Breath) ● Gwent Detecting Club would be holds two of the coins keen to hear from any Mendip he found near Shepton landowners. Visit: Mallet www.gwentdetecting.co.uk For details about the FCN visit: www.fcn.org.uk or call 03000 111999

The club always seeks permission before visiting a site and members follow a strict code of conduct

Tractor run

FARMING

FROME Young Farmers’ Christmas charity tractor run will be held on Sunday December 10th, setting off from Frome Showground at 10.30am.

It’s raising money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony charity.

There will be a competition for the best decorated Christmas tractor. Entries are £10, including refreshments.

Details: Harry Benney h.benney@yahoo.com 07517 483211.

Honour for Derek Mead

A SPECIAL recognition award has been presented to the family of Derek Mead, a passionate advocate of British farming and agriculture who sadly lost his life in a farming accident this year.

Making the presentation at the South West Farmer Awards, Julie Edwards from Mole Valley, said: “Derek was quite simply unique – a true friend and advocate of farming and farming families who is missed but will never be forgotten.”

Alistair Mead said: “My family and I cannot express enough our gratitude and appreciation to those who have honoured the memory of our late father. Dad loved nothing more than being surrounded by his fellow farmers at the market putting the world to rights. He would have been so pleased with these awards for his hard work in the industry.”

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Dedicated to farmers every day of the year

WESTFIELD Farm Vets are a dedicated “farm animal-only” practice, based in Wells.

The long-established practice, formerly known as Duncan and Whyte, has seen a recent change away from the traditional mixed practice towards large animal vets specialising in their own field.

They provide a personal, professional, dedicated service to dairy, beef, sheep and smallholder farmers in Somerset “from the Moors to the Mendips”.

Westfield take a proactive approach to veterinary care and have recently been awarded the highest level of RCVS accreditation in Farm Animal General Practice. They strive to provide a friendly service tailored to the needs of your farming business, offering routine visits, health planning and advice.

They hold farmer meetings with a focus on preventative medicine, aiming

FARMING

Farm vet Hannah Braden with practice partners Iain Whyte (left) and Charlie Moore

to promote high health and welfare of the animals under their care. In addition, they provide a 365-day, 24-

hour on-call service from a dedicated farm animal veterinarian should clients need to call them for emergencies.

For details call their office on: 01749 673239

On & by your side

01749 673 239

westfieldvets@live.co.uk

Dedicated ‘Farm Only’ vets, serving the Mendips area ✔ Experienced & knowledgeable vets ✔ Proactive, forward thinking ✔ Focused on preventative medicine

Emergency cover by our own vets, 24/7, 365 days a year FREE advice by phone, simply call Westfield Farm Vets on 01749 673 239 or email westfieldvets@live.co.uk Westfield Farm Vets, Westfield Road, Wells BA5 2HS www.vetsomerset.co.uk • Ample parking PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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TOPSOIL AND STONE SUPPLIES Dry high quality screened or unscreened Topsoil.

Recycled aggregates and quarry stone supplies, road planings and building stone.

DEMOLITION AND STRIP OUT All types of demolition works. From small household to main contractor projects, including rail, schools and city centre redevelopments. Complete range of specialist equipment and services available.

ASBESTOS Asbestos removal and collection. Roof sheets, tiles and guttering. Call for information.

TRANSPORT 4,6 and 8 wheeled tipper Lorries for hire and muck away. Low loader, beaver tail and road brush hire.

PLANT HIRE Wide range of plant. 360 excavators, Dumpers, Bulldozers and Crushers.

Seasons re G etings to all of our customers

EXCAVATIONS Large and small excavations. Specialist works include Equestrian all weather surfaces, drainage and bulk excavations.

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Carnival club’s clean sweep

Photos by Mark Adler

HUCKYDUCK Carnival Club, based in Coleford, may not be the biggest, but that didn’t stop them beating all before them on this year’s Somerset circuit.

Their tableau cart The Flying Dutchman took first place at every display, winning several classes at many of the carnivals. The club is celebrating its 40th year in carnival.

Huckyduck CC on their way through Midsomer Norton

Shambles CC pass through their home town of Shepton Mallet with Thriller

Members of Shepton Mallet Youth Club with Mike Butt, from Marketeers CC

Cary Comedians ahead of Shepton Mallet carnival

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The Marketeers CC entry The Locker

Michael Churches, of Glastonbury, is a regular on the circuit. This year the walking masquerader’s title was Ho Ho, Let it Snow

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CARNIVAL ’17

Run to the Hills, by Gremlins CC, of Bridgwater

Marina Sydenham junior carnival club’s Jack! in Shepton Mallet Their generator may have failed in Shepton Mallet, but the cast of Masqueraders CC maintained their poses on War Horse – the Journey Home

One-year-old Shahai with his nan Mandy at Midsomer Norton

A close-up of Huckyduck’s Flying Dutchman cart

Wells-based Globe CC, with White Magic

Spirit of Winter, by Griffens CC, of Bridgwater

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CARNIVAL ’17

One of the cast of Mendip Vale CC, from Wells, on board their feature entry Troy

A scene from Halloween in Deadman’s Hollow, by Bridgwaterbased Ramblers CC

Some of the team on the Shambles CC cart Thriller

9 ¾ by King William CC, of Glastonbury

Majorettes were a popular feature in Midsomer Norton

50 Shades of Hay, by Luckington CC, based in Radstock

Ilminster-based Gemini CC with Steampunk

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Stardust Majorettes dance through Midsomer Norton

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Wishing you a very flexi-Christmas

MORE and more of us are trying to eat less meat, so whether you are cooking for full-on veggies, or flexitarians (those who eat meat as well), the Christmas table can be a bit of a challenge.

For a fabulous centrepiece for your Wise Men and Women what could be better than a With JUNE great big, jewelled tagine, studded with MACFARLANE colour and zinging with flavour? With a dazzling starter and a stunning dessert this is a feast for the eyes as well as a gentle sigh of gratitude for the digestion.

ROASTED CARROTS, FENNEL SEEDS AND BURRATA

Roasting carrots brings out the sweetness in them. Burrata is a delicious, creamy, vegetarian-friendly relation of mozzarella. One will probably feed four people as a starter.

METHOD Preheat oven to 160°C. Whisk together the oil, honey and fennel seeds and toss with the carrots. Arrange on a baking tray and roast for about 15 minutes, until the carrots are tender and starting to crinkle. Remove and allow to cool to room temperature. Arrange on plates, top with torn burrata and the tray juices.

INGREDIENTS

(For four) 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp honey 1 tbsp fennel seeds 4 medium carrots, quartered 1 ball burrata

PERSIMMON TRIFLE

CHRISTMAS VEGETABLE TAGINE (For at least four) 1 large onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped olive oil 1 each red pepper, courgette, aubergine, carrot, parsnip 2 tbsp chermoula paste 1 400g tin chickpeas, rinsed & drained 250ml vegetable stock 12 semi dried apricots, halved flat leaf parsley 1 tbsp pickled cranberries (optional)

INGREDIENTS

Bring out the sweetness of carrots by roasting them

This is a great festive dish and looks fantastic in the centre of the table.

Chermoula is a paste made with lemon, spices and herbs – available in good supermarkets. Serve with couscous, and some harissa on the side for heat.

METHOD Soften the onions and garlic in the olive oil; seed the pepper and chop along with the rest of the vegetables. Add to the pan and allow to soften.

Add the chermoula paste and stir until all is coated. Add the chickpeas, the stock and the apricots. Simmer until all is tender. Adjust seasoning. Sprinkle in the parsley and the optional cranberries and serve.

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Trifle is a favourite and persimmons are the other INGREDIENTS orange-coloured fruit that (For four) we see at Christmas! Make juice of half a lemon sure your fruit is properly 1 tbsp honey scant tbsp rum (optional) ripe – overripe is good, underripe is astringent.

2 ripe persimmons Easy on the rum.

300ml whipping cream METHOD 1 tbsp icing sugar Whisk together first three s sponge 4 trifle ingredients. Peel and cube shelled ios, pistach 1 tbsp the persimmons and d choppe finely and marinate in the honey/rum for 15 mins. Whip cream and icing sugar to soft peaks. Crumble sponges into separate serving glasses. Top with layers of fruit and cream and finish with the pistachios.

A trifle unusual – why not try persimmons?

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Welcome Dabinett and Redwood THE first bottles of Dabinett, a new addition to our Cider Barn range, have left the mill and are now available in our Cider Shop at Myrtle Farm.

Dabinett, 5.3% abv, is a single variety cider crafted from the Dabinett apple and makes a welcome return after a few years’ break. Soft and full bodied, with hints of vanilla aroma, the Dabinett apple creates a medium sweet cider that is amber in colour and has a full, rounded character.

It joins Redwood, another new cider in the Cider Barn range, which is infused with new oak during maturation, giving a subtle vanilla note to the cider. Redwood is 6.0% abv and blended from apples including Katy, Harry Masters, Dabinett and Yarlington Mill. It has a golden colour with a rich and intense character.

Don’t forget you can also buy our award-winning Redstreak in the Cider Shop too.

Cidermaker Ruby with the new Redwood cider

Beautiful Dabinett apples

Join our Wassail at The Railway Inn

BE prepared for some weird and wonderful goings-on in January at Wassail-time.

The Mendip Morrismen will be leading the traditional ceremony at The Railway Inn’s event on Wednesday 17th January 2018. Come along and join us for some mulled cider, supper and of course, plenty of singing. Tickets are available from The Railway Inn, Tel 01934 611518

FOOD & DRINK

Christmas opening times at the Cider Shop

LYNNE, Erica (pictured), Nick and George look forward to welcoming you to our Myrtle Farm Cider Shop. During December you’ll find ideas for Christmas gifts, including gift boxes and hampers, gift vouchers, and some very special drinks, including Orchard Cut Gin and Thatchers Family Reserve. If you’re having a party, you can also pick up a 20litre bag-in-box from our Stan’s traditional range – or of course, as generations have done before, fill your container straight from the barrel.

Our December opening hours are: Saturday 23/12 Sunday 24/12 Monday 25/12 Tuesday 26/12 Wednesday 27/12 Thursday 28/12 Friday 29/12 Saturday 30/12 Sunday 31/12 Monday 1/1 Tuesday 2/1

9am – 6pm 10am – 1pm Closed Closed 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 10am-1pm Closed 9am-6pm

Cheers from us all at Myrtle Farm

www.thatcherscider.co.uk • Don’t forget you can also follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Thatchers Cider, Myrtle Farm, Sandford, Somerset, BS25 5RA

MENDIP ENDIP T TIMES IMES •• N DOVEMBER ECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 19 M

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Farmers’ markets gear up for Christmas

ALL of the advertised December markets are also seasonal celebrations with a Christmas theme including festive food and present-buying opportunities and a Christmas prize draw.

Many markets invite local musicians or choirs. For example Midsomer Norton on December 2nd will be enjoying the Norton Radstock Silver Band playing Christmas carols.

However in addition to their regular markets they also organise two additional special events. On Sunday December 17th at Axbridge, 10am-1.30pm, there will be a choir singing and Christmas hamper prize draw.

In Frome as well as the regular market on December 9th, on December 20th at the Cheese & Grain they will be hosting an atmospheric evening Christmas farmers’ market, 5pm-7.30pm. This event will be enhanced with Christmas piano music and a huge range of food and present-buying opportunities such as local wines, ciders and chocolates.

The market has a long tradition with queues forming outside the hall and a mad rush to stock up on cheeses and chutneys, Brussel sprouts and chipolatas. Pre-ordering of some items is possible via the traders whose details can be found on the SFM website or phone 01373 813812.

Details: www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk

D E C E M B E R D AT E S A ll ma r ke t s 9 a m -1 p m u n l e ss o t h e rw i se ma r ke d *

SAT 2nd Axbridge & Midsomer Norton SUN 3rd SFM @ Frome Independent (10am-3pm) SAT 9th Keynsham and Frome (C&G Market Hall) SAT 16th Crewkerne SUN 17th Axbridge Additional Market* (10am-1.30pm)

Wed 20th Frome Cheese & Grain Special Christmas Market* (5pm-7.30pm) FRI 22nd Burnham-on-Sea SAT 23rd Glastonbury* (9am-2pm)

PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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FOOD & DRINK

Bini celebrates a successful year BINI Ludlow’s year and career has gone from strength to strength in 2017. Her portfolio of accolades now includes a raft of awards for her classes and frozen ready-meal range, numerous high-profile TV and radio appearances (BBC, ITV and C4) as well as featuring in local and national press (The Guardian, Delicious magazine, Vegetarian Living magazine).

Bini is also a member of the National Women in Enterprise Taskforce for the FSB where she holds events to champion and support small business for both women and men in the South West of England.

Bini’s award-winning classic chicken curry

She has recently won the Taste of the West champion award 2017 for her classic chicken curry, the judges commenting “an authentic complex dish with just the right amount of heat. You just have to keep going back for more”.

You can also try Bini’s ready-made meal range at one of the upcoming tasting events where you can catch up with Bini and get in the festive mood. And you can buy curry on the night to pop in the freezer. She has also added six new vegetarian dishes, all gluten-free, to her ready-made range, so even more reason to try them.

There are tasting events on Thursday November 30th at Whiterow Farm Shop, Frome, 4pm to 8.30pm, and on Thursday December 7th at Farrington Farm Shop, Farrington Gurney, 4pm to 8pm. For other dates check out her website for the latest tasting events.

And as Christmas is coming, are you looking for a special or unusual gift idea?

Bini has added two new full-day cookery courses with fantastic recipes to develop

Bini with Michel Roux and Jay Rayner on C4’s Tried and Tested: The Ultimate Shopping List

a budding cook’s Indian culinary skills – The Adventure of India and Flavours of South India. Sweet Cumin cookery vouchers make ideal gifts for all ability cooks who love spices and fancy having a go at cooking a “proper” curry.

Bini will teach the cooks the secrets of spicing ingredients with confidence and they will have hands-on experience cooking and take away the food they cook. Just make sure you are nearby to try the dishes they bring home after the class!

Details: Bini 07961 320193 or email bini@sweetcumin.co.uk

Gi Vouchers

available to the value of your choice ❖ Courses to suit all ages and abili es ❖ Enjoy learning in a small class size ❖ Take home the food you cook, a goody pack with recipe and spices

❖ Half day courses £85.00 and Full day courses £165.00 per person.

❖ Discover the secrets of blending and using spices with confidence

❖ Bini conducts public talks, demonstra ons and private catering

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 21

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Brockley Stores champions local produce

POPULAR farm shop and deli, Brockley Stores, have relaunched with a new brand and website, reflecting the store’s exciting new direction under its new owners. To celebrate, the store is giving customers the chance to win one of three luxury West Country hampers worth £130 via their social media profiles.

Driven by a passion for mouth-watering, real food that is produced locally, Brockley Stores’ new branding is bright, organic and natural, retaining a local feel with an element of fun.

The store now has over 1,000 products available (more than treble it had over a year ago), many from local suppliers of all different sizes, including cider produced in Nailsea, cheese produced in Hewish, bread baked in Yatton, meat reared in Somerset and beer brewed in Bristol.

What’s more, each day the store produces a range of delicious hand-made products that you won’t find anywhere else, like cakes, quiches, pasties and sandwiches, all created with local ingredients.

Shoppers can explore exciting products the store has to offer and buy a range of hampers on the new website at www.brockleystores.co.uk Commenting on Brockley Stores’ rebrand, store owner, Rob Hagen said: “Since taking over the store in 2016, we’ve taken time to listen to our customers’ wants and needs, as well as developing close relationships with a wide range of local suppliers

to offer incredible food and drink that caters for all kinds of eaters.

“We felt it was time to launch a new brand to reflect what we’re up to, as it’s so refreshingly different from what supermarkets and high street stores are doing across the country.

“It’s all part of a new direction for the store, as we look to change people’s understanding of where food comes from, what modern day farming looks like and what real food looks, tastes and feels like, helping to reducing environmental impacts by minimising food miles.

“It’s certainly an exciting time for our store, which is going from strength to strength thanks to our brilliant network of local suppliers who are also enjoying success with our growth.”

To find out how you can win one of the three Luxury West Country Hampers worth £130 each, visit Brockley Stores on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Instagram: @brockleystores • Facebook: www.facebook.com/brockleystores • Twitter: @brockleystores Website: www.brockleystores.co.uk • Call 01275 462753.

PURCHASE XMAS HAMPERS & TREES ONLINE

Real Local Food ● Handmade goodies ● Local fruit & veg ● Great coffee ● Meat & Cheese ● Christmas hampers W: http://www.brockleystores.co.uk T: 01275 862 753

: @brockleystores

Brockley Stores, Main Road, Brockley, Bristol BS48 3AT PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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GARDEN FOOD

Carrots for Christmas

THIS year has been by far my best yet for carrots, though this isn’t saying a lot, as almost every previous attempt has been met with abject failure. Previously, I had always suffered from tiny, forked, stunted carrots, as a result of the stony, heavy clay soil in my garden.

With JAKE However I solved this problem this year WHITSON by creating a raised bed made almost entirely from ten-year-old horse manure. Unsurprisingly, the carrots have done well!

This year I planted a blend of carrot seeds from the French seed company Kokopelli. This was a fun thing to do as I got to try all of the different kinds at the same time and really get to appreciate the differences. As a result, I have become something of a carrot snob.

I realised that many of the more dramatically coloured carrots actually had an inferior flavour to the others. This actually makes a certain amount of sense, as it is a lot of work to breed a blood-red carrot, without also have to make it have a great texture and flavour too.

Wild carrots are white, so it is not hard to breed a white carrot as they constantly try to revert to that anyway, and I found that the white cultivar in the mix, Blanche de Küttingen, had both the the best flavour and texture by far, followed by the orange cultivars.

Carrots can be stored in a cool place over the winter, preferably in boxes of sand, though to be honest I haven’t grown enough for that, and am just enjoying the last few that are still in the ground.

I thoroughly enjoy them sliced thinly onto some lettuce from the garden, dressed with a vinaigrette of Dijon mustard, lots of cider vinegar, chopped dill (from the freezer) and olive oil, and some crusty bread to mop it all up.

Incidentally, they’d make a fine addition to a Christmas roast! Merry Christmas!

Jacob is a former chef turned food writer, smallholder and mycologist. He divides his time between the Mendips and his nine-acre forest garden project in Pembrokeshire. Details: www.chaosfungorum.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

Christmas store

LET’S face it, there’s not much wild food around for us at this time of year. As I write this tawny owls are twit-twooing away and in daylight hours we have a young buzzard nearby that is constantly screeching.

His parents have kicked him out this summer but he’s still hanging around like a With ADRIAN petulant teenager and many other feathery BOOTS colleagues from blackbird to thrush are frantically eating all the lovely red berries off my holly tree.

Sensibly they are storing up all the nutrient and fat they can before the winter really bites.

Storing is the operative word here and so it is that we turn to the store cupboard for inspiration this Christmas. Let the expedition to the back of the store cupboard begin. Will it be successful or will it end in failure, will everyone still be at the party by the time I’ve returned with the quince jelly for the cheese course? Let’s see what there is...

The classic wild booze of the winter is the ubiquitous sloe gin. Now my full demijohn is about seven years old and is truly the stuff of legend but what you need to know is that I left the sloes in the jar.

Many recipes call for them to be strained out and I don’t blame them as the stones in the fruit contain miniscule amounts of hydrogen cyanide, maybe that’s why it gives me a headache? Anyway, the key thing here is what to do with the left-over fruit.

Some advise making jelly or jam with the fruit but I wanted to go for something a little more seasonal. So how about combining it with fruity mincemeat for a sloe gin twist on the classic mince pie? Alternatively, why not put it in a Christmas pudding? In the end we settled on an Italian inspired semifreddo.

Simply remove the stones from the sloe fruit, puree and swirl through double cream that has been whipped to a mousse-like consistency. Crumble in pieces of meringue to give it sweetness and an agreeable crunch. Place in the freezer and just before you need it leave at room temperature for a while then serve in glass dessert bowls for the big reveal! Fantastico!

I wish you all a spectacularly festive Christmas and New Year, sharing good “wild” food and drink with family and friends. And if some of those things came from the store cupboard (the food and drink, not family and friends), that will make it all the better. Merry Christmas!

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.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 23

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Christmas at Jon Thorner’s

Personalised Christmas Hampers In large, medium or small sizes. Filled with our locally-sourced, quality range of mince pies, mulled wines, sloe gin, luxury cakes, crackers and biscuits, jams, chutneys, sauces, olives, deli cheeses, fine teas and coffees, chocolate and confectionery.* * Subject to availability

See www.puxton.co.uk for details Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish, Weston-super-Mare BS24 6AH. Tel 01934 523500

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • NOVEMBER 2017

JON Thorner’s has launched a new-look Christmas food brochure for 2017. The stunning photography showcases the fantastic new Christmas range this award-winning butcher has to offer this year, such as their West Country Beef Roulade, which is stuffed with spinach and mushrooms and topped with herb butter, or the Italianinspired stuffed loin of free range pork.

If you are interested in finding out more about their Christmas range, you can join Jon Thorner’s at their Christmas Open Evening on Friday December 8th, 4pm to 8pm, where you can discover festive foods from a range of local suppliers.

Complimentary mince pies, mulled cider and hot chips are a certainty.

Plus they are giving away three hampers worth a total of £95 in a free prize draw on the night!

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A L D W I C K V I N E YA R D

A paean to Pinot Noir

SIR William Bassett was much acclaimed in the 17th century for wine from red Navarre grapes. His vineyard at Claverton House, Bath lay in the county of Somersetshire. Why then is English red wine so reviled?

On 27 October 2015, Aldwick’s With Home Team plus a top volunteer ELIZABETH selected 1275 kilos of Pinot Noir.

LAVER Only finest-quality grapes would suffice in Aldwick’s inaugural red wine venture.

Once fermented, the Pinot aged in two allotments, each for five months in three-year-old, French oak barrels.

The first yielded 582 bottles in March 2017. On the advice of Master of Wine Susan McCraith, we chose not to filter the second bottling of 570 in late August. “An excellent expression of English-grown Pinot Noir,” she commented. “But leave it to rest for six months to ‘openout’.”

Thus encouraged, we resolved to canvass feedback to help us improve. What more perfect a starting point than the Winscombe Wine Shop, champion of Somerset winegrowers? Proprietor Kelli Coxhead assembled a panel of 15 (predominantly Mendip residents with WSET credentials!) for a blind tasting and selected four competing ‘cool climate’ Pinot Noirs from Germany, New Zealand, Chile, and South Africa.

On the evening of November 14th, Kelli addressed the group: “I trust your palates. I trust your opinions.

Whether you like Pinot Noir or not is irrelevant. Your task is to assess the wine.”

Aldwick’s Pinots held their own, the filtered and unfiltered both achieving two first choice votes. But our greatest reward comes in the generous provision of tasting notes: criticisms as prized as praise. Heartfelt thanks to all our benefactors!

FOOD & DRINK

Why choose Beans and Machines

BEANS and Machines provide great espresso machines, great freshly roasted coffee and great service and they really care about their customers.

As a local, independent company, they are only too aware how competitive the coffee industry is these days and they therefore pride themselves on being more than just another coffee company by ensuring they go that extra mile to provide their customers with the outstanding service and products they deserve.

They always endeavour to respond to service calls as quickly as possible so their customers suffer the minimum of down time. They can also provide loan machines if a fault cannot be rectified on site.

They have worked in the coffee industry for many years and have a long relationship with the famous Italian made Astoria espresso machines. Their passion is a perfect espresso.

As well as supplying new espresso machines which are available to rent, buy or lease, they also refurbish machines, for sale. They offer a full maintenance and repair service within a 50mile radius of their base in Paulton, for most wellknown makes of espresso machines.

With their own superb, freshly roasted coffee, Clipper teas, delicious Zuma hot chocolate and Sweetbird syrups, they aim to be a “one-stop shop” for all your café needs.

Pictured is their latest arrival from Italy – the new Astoria Core 600 Compact Espresso machine.

This stunning machine in white not only makes the best espresso with their lovely beans but Astoria have transformed the cup warmer into a designer lamp! Its elegant looks and led lights will make it the focal point of any café or bar.

Visit their showroom for a demonstration or book in for Barista training for your staff which is free to all coffee customers.

Elizabeth Laver is Vineyard Manager For wine & vineyard tours visit www.aldwickcourtfarm.co.uk

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Gold award-winning Café Gorge

CAFÉ Gorge, a thriving independent family-run business, has been awarded the highest accolade in the Taste of the West awards.

The judges’ summary was: “This is a lovely café serving delicious food, beautifully presented by caring and knowledgeable staff.”

Café Gorge is passionate about fresh local and home-made produce and says it’s so pleased to be recognised by Taste of the West, the largest independent regional food and drink group in Great Britain.

Café Gorge has already scored Five Stars on Trip Advisor and a five-star food hygiene rating. It prides itself on its handmade produce, particularly its pastries and Cheddar quiches, baked every day.

Holly Keane the manager and one of eight family members in action throughout the café said: “We would like to thank all our customers, suppliers, family and staff for making our first three years so fantastic, we are now firmly established and open every day all year.

“Café Gorge is a go to destination for outstanding local food and drink in the heart of Cheddar Gorge. Find us on Facebook or call 01934 741985.”

CAFÉ GORGE CHEDDAR GORGE BS27 3QE 01934 741985

Come in and enjoy Blagdon’s traditional little country pub. enjoy Lunch or dinner with us. note 80% menu is gluten-free.

Booking highly recommended. in season: trout • Pheasant • Venison good food, good friends, good times

www.queenadelaideblagdon.co.uk • 01761 463926 PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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FOOD & DRINK

Bread & Beyond TEA ROOMS AND PROVISIONS

delicious food for eating in or to take away • organic free trade coffee Cream teas • Afternoon tea (booking only) Home-made tarts, pies, cakes and bread • Local milk, cheeses and eggs Beautiful china from Burgess and Leigh. Lovely cards from local artists. Vintage gifts and original paintings by noted artists from Andelli Home and Andelli Art.

Cyclists, walkers and dogs very welcome Open: Monday to Friday: 7am - 4.30pm Saturday: 7.30am - 3pm

Bread & Beyond

High street, Chewton mendip, BA3 4LJ

01761 240820 email: breadandbeyond@outlook.com

Country shopping at its best

New Manor Farm Shop

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH US!

Centred around a traditional farm courtyard near Chew Valley Lake – the very best in local produce and gift ideas MEAT SUPPLIED FROM OUR OWN FARM

TEA ROOMS

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS LUNCH NOW, VARIOUS DATES AVAILABLE Hot & cold meals • Delicious cream teas • Full English breakfasts • Come and enjoy our lovely Sunday roast lunches

CHRISTMAS TREES, HOLLY WREATHS & HIYACINTHS Feast with us this Christmas

Geoff’s fresh fish every Friday

Opening times: Farm shop: Monday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm • Saturday 8.30am - 5.30pm • Sunday 10am - 5pm Tea Room: Monday to Sunday 9.30am - 4.30pm Wheelchair access, children welcome, free parking, coaches by appointment

Farm Shop: 01761 220067 • Tea Rooms: 01761 220172

FABULOUS CHOICE OF CHRISTMAS GIFTS

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 27

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INTERNET

Christmas shopping

IT may have escaped your notice, but Christmas is not far away (?!), so if you are thinking of doing Christmas shopping, then sooner rather than later is better. Most companies have very good delivery times – next day is not unusual and one even offers sameday delivery.

But what are your shopping rights?

There are special laws and regulations that give you extra protection when you shop online, or with a catalogue or over the phone. These are called the Consumer Contracts Regulations (check out www.which.co.uk).

You can cancel your order for goods ordered online anytime from the moment you place your order up to 14 days after you receive it.

You can return goods for a refund if you simply change your mind.

There are some items you can't return, such as CDs, DVDs or computer software if you've broken the seal on the wrapping, perishable items such as food and flowers, and tailor-made or personalised goods.

If an online shop doesn't explain who pays to send back returned goods, then they must pay.

Online retailers have to give details of who they are and provide a geographical address and an email address at which to contact them.

Some online retailers say that the price of your order will be fixed the day the goods are dispatched to you. Most supermarkets do this, so if you're ordering lots of half-price goods to be delivered next week, bear in mind that the deals might have ended by then and you may end up paying more.

Under the Consumer Rights Act items must be fit for their purpose, as described, and of satisfactory quality. If you have to return an item for one of these reasons, give the retailer the chance to collect it or ask for the cost of postage back.

Don’t fall foul of online scams or fraud this Christmas – take a few simple steps to protect yourself: I would suggest starting with shops you know (John Lewis, Wilko, Argos etc. etc.). Make sure you have good virus protection, anti-spyware software and a firewall.

Make sure you're using the latest version of your browser (e.g.

Chrome, Opera, Safari etc.), and have it set to the highest security level and install updates when prompted.

Don't navigate to sites by clicking links in emails or from adverts. If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of a site, use a search engine to research it.

Secure sites will display a locked padlock or key symbol in the browser window. They will also have an address that begins 'https' instead of the usual 'http' (although you may not see the https unless you click on the address).

It can be a good idea to get a credit card that you use just for online purchases as it'll make it easier for you to track your genuine purchases. Or check out PayPal. Be savvy about your password. If a site asks you to create a password, use a combination of letters and numbers and avoid using passwords that you've used before.

However, Ebay is not the same as an online store; instead it acts as a marketplace where you can buy goods from a wide range of individuals and online traders. Always look at the seller rating and feedback.

On behalf of everyone at IT4TT, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and safe New Year.

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

This month’s Mindbender has a festive theme

ACROSS 1 One of the eight reindeers pulling the sleigh of 5 & 9 across (6) 5 & 9A The popular giftbringer, this name being more popular in the USA (5,5) 7, 19A, 9D, 4D & 2D _______ you _ _____ _________ ___ _ happy ___ ___ - seasons greetings from the staff at Mendip Times (7,1,5,9,3,1,3,4) 8 See 10 across 9 See 5 across 10 & 8A The Holly ___ ___ ___, popular festive carol (3,3,3) 12 & 11D The original Father Christmas (5,8) 14 & 1D The day following Christmas Day (6,3) 16 The ________, the story of the birth of Jesus, usually depicted by schoolchildren (8) 17 See 6 down 18 See 13 down 19 See 7 across

DOWN 1 See 14 across 2 See 7 across 3 ______ Bells, song written by James Lord Pierpont and popular during the festive season (6) 4 See 7 across 6 & 17A A device offering a countdown of the days leading up to Christmas (6,8) 9 See 7 across 11 See 12 across 13 & 18A Popular Carol (4,2,1,6) 14 Another member of the reindeer team often associated with 1 across (7) 15 Another member of the reindeer team (7)

Answers on page 129

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After 103 years, village honours forgotten soldier

By Mark Adler

STONEMASON David Underhill is always meticulous in his work but never more so than when he added the name to a Mendip war memorial of a World War One soldier who lost his life in 1914.

After all, it has been almost 100 years since the memorial in Batcombe last bore witness to such an event. But no mention exists of Private William Newman, of the 1st Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry, who lost his life just four days after arriving in France.

William’s elder brother, George, also died that day in August at Le Cateau and the two have no known graves. Both are recorded on a memorial in France and there are two mentions of George in Bath, but nothing about William back home.

Until, that is, the Batcombe and District Branch of the Royal British Legion decided it was time to act. The village’s Remembrance Day service this year was a special event because, in addition to the annual parade and church service, the legion brought home a “missing man” by dedicating the addition of William’s name to the Grade 2 listed memorial, erected in the early 1920s.

The techniques used for inscribing the names when the memorial was erected by villagers have changed little in the intervening years, a fact not lost on the stonemason from Bath who has plied his trade since 1969. He carefully copied the existing lettering before adding William’s William Newman in a name in lead to photo owned by his family the granite memorial,

Dave Underhill at work

PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

A family remembers: Michael Newman (far right) with daughter Tania Stone, son Karl and grandson Benjamin

Brig Rob Jones leads the Remembrance Day parade

making sure the name matched exactly those of the 11 other villagers killed in the conflict.

David said: “I am always aware that I am creating something not just historical, but personal.”

Descendants of William attended the service, including his grandson Michael Newman, of Taunton, who provided much of the background research material for the branch, led by retired brigadier Rob Jones. It was Michael who asked for the name to be added.

William was born in 1887 in nearby Milton Clevedon before his family moved to Westcombe – part of the parish of Batcombe – and records show he had married and was living near Taunton by 1914. He died possibly not knowing his wife was expecting their first child.

Recognised at last: William Newman’s name on the memorial

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Shepton Mallet remembers

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Students pave the way to honour the fallen

The Claydon family – dad Lee, mum Hayley and daughters Isabelle, aged five and Ellie, aged three – admire the poppies

A TOTAL of 146 poppies around SS Peter and Paul church provided a poignant tribute to the town’s fallen as part of the Remembrance Day commemorations.

The poppies were hung from the railings and also suspended from the church tower. They were the idea of town councillor and Royal British Legion branch member Nick Chambers and were put up by local cubs and beavers.

Emborough

Jonny at work on the Harry Patch paving stone. The stones were donated by Forest of Dean Stone Firms

The hunt gathers at Emborough

MENDIP Farmers’ Hunt held a two-minute silence at the start of their meet at the Old Down Inn at Emborough. It coincided with Armistice Day.

Riders show their respects

STONEMASONRY students from Bath College in Radstock have created a unique tribute to men who served in the First World War. They were set the challenge of carving the names of the veterans into paving stones which adorn a new housing development at Combe Down in Bath.

The first paving stones to be unveiled honour Henry John “Harry” Patch – "the Last Fighting Tommy" – William George Chivers and Herbert Charles Windell.

All three men grew up in Combe Down village.

The students involved in the project were Jack Green, Jonny Stoker, Josh Underwood and Morwenna Harrington. Jonny said: “It’s my way of paying respect to those who fought in the First World War. Volunteering for projects like this gives me the chance to test what I’ve learnt at college.”

Called Mulberry Park, the development by Curo – a housing association – will include 700 homes, community facilities and open spaces. Combe Down Heritage Society suggested that the streets within the new development were named after the men of Combe Down who served in World War I. Each street will be marked with a commemorative paving stone.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 31

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Radstock

Keith Tyrell (far left), the first mayor of Radstock, prepares to lay a wreath

Paying their respects: cubs and scouts at the war memorial

Gerald Padfield, 86, who spent his National Service years with the Oxford and Bucks regiment

A wreath created by members of Radstock Knitters hangs from the mining wheel

PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

M i d s o m e r No r t o n

Aidan Johnson, aged 11, of Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band, playing the Last Post

Wincanton Racecourse The parade passes along the High Street

Members of Yeovil Sea and Royal Marine Cadets collect in front of the iconic racecourse statue, decorated with poppies

John Clancy, a member of the welcoming team at Wincanton, wears his poppy with pride

(Photos courtesy of Will Nicol)

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C h i l co m pt o n

Isaac Emery (left) and Zak Gloudemans, both aged seven, prepare to lay a wreath on behalf of St Vigor and St John CofE primary school

Frome

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Chilcompton vicar the Rev. Christopher North (left) and Dom. Boniface Hill, assistant priest at St Benedict’s Catholic church in Stratton-on-the-Fosse, prepare to tae the service at Chilcompton’s war memorial

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 33

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Das ist wunderbar – carnival’s German fans

Bad Durkheim burgermeister Christoph Glogger, Wells mayor John North and guests

A DELEGATION from Bad Durkheim – the twin city of Wells in Germany – and a German tourist who has become fascinated by carnival were amongst the thousands of people who lined the city’s streets for its annual procession.

The group were guests of Wells

Ingeborg is on holiday in Somerset and has become a big fan of carnival

Twinning Association and city mayor and mayoress John and Gail North. Bad Durkheim burgermeister Christoph Glogger, his wife Vera and children Hannah and Jannas were making their first visit to Wells.

Meanwhile, teacher and storyteller

Ingeborg Neldner had travelled from Augsburg in Bavaria on holiday in the west country and watched carnivals in Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Wells and Glastonbury. ● See our carnival picture special on page 12.

Hark, angels spearhead church development plans

A FESTIVAL of angels will herald the start of ambitious plans to repair and improve All Saints’ church in Castle Cary.

Community groups, schools and individuals are hard at work creating their own angels which will be displayed in the church from Saturday, December 2nd until Saturday, January 6th. The launch coincides with the town’s Christmas celebrations.

The aim of the festival is to encourage discussion about the future development of All Saints’. The Victorian roof must be replaced, the church tower repaired and a stunning stained glass window restored, but the Rev. Liz Mortimer says the project is also about opening up the building to the wider community.

The idea of the festival was inspired by a medieval carved wooden angel left behind by the Victorians when the current roof was installed. For many years it stood in a niche over the south All Saints’ church porch. in Castle Cary The overall cost of the project could be as much as £500,000 but plans have still to be drawn up. Rev. Mortimer said: “Angels are messengers and we hope the festival will encourage people in the town to come up with their own ideas about how we should take forward the building.

“It is their building and it could be used in many other ways apart from services. I want the community to take the Rev. Liz Mortimer with the carved angel lead.”

PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

NEWS

For details, visit: www.castlecaryallsaints.org.uk

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“IT’S the colour above all” declares Sue, as she shows the scintillating range of glass that she has made.

Glass in many shapes and uses, translucent and opaque. Her constant exploration of ideas and techniques developed in the US and in the UK, through masterclasses with famous glass makers, results in some eye dazzling glass of many styles. “Why glass? It’s because it is so malleable – all you need to shape it is heat and gravity.”

Sue has had a remarkable career. She started as an archaeologist in Wisconsin, before her career in computers with IBM. Both influences can be seen in her work – the mystery of the unknown, the precision needed to fire glass (colours have different firing temperatures) and the curiosity to take the risk to develop a new style.

Sue has become well known here – her glass is in the National Glass Centre in Sunderland and she has exhibited in both UK and West Country exhibitions. The Somerset Guild of Craftsmen is lucky to have some large and small examples of her work in its shop in Wells.

Christopher Bond

Art winners go on show

London-based Katharine with her Tablemouth work

A HIGH-definition video called Tablemouth by performance artist Katharine Fry has been named the winner of the 2017 Black Swan Open competition.

Almost 490 artists entered this year’s competition and 56 pieces out of 921 were selected. Entries came from across the UK. Judges included journalist and broadcaster Mariella Frostrup and Dea Vanagan, director of Hauser and Wirth in Bruton. Mariella told guests at the prize winners ceremony in the gallery in Frome that deliberations amongst the judges had been “robust”.

As well as winning the Hauser and Wirth BSA curator and chair of trustees first prize worth Amanda Sheridan (left) with prizewinner £750, Katharine Katharine Fry also won the Babington House Mentoring Award. Black Swan Arts is a community arts centre charity run almost entirely by volunteers.

The exhibition runs until Wednesday, November 29th.

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ARTS & ANTIQUES

Bidders feel the strain as tea set reaches £3,700!

DESTINED to add a burst of colour to a china cabinet in Bangkok, home of its new owner, this Shelley Dainty Floral pattern 12person tea set, offered at Clevedon Salerooms’ November Quarterly Specialist Sale created a great deal of interest from bidders around the globe all keen to bag themselves the set.

Condition is crucial and this set with its flower Shelley Dainty Floral 12-person tea set sold for £3,700 handles looked as if it was kept back in readiness for a Royal visit that never considerably more. materialised! Exceptions, they say, prove the rule, and this If you have a Shelley, or any other tea set that you would tea set is certainly the exception. like valued, why not send an image of it to Clevedon You can buy a perfectly serviceable tea set at auction for Salerooms for a free valuation or visit the salerooms on one of their free valuation days? around £30, but once in a while, you can buy one for Every lot in every auction, illustrated and sold with live internet bidding Our Free Valuation Days can be a rewarding experience!

RESULTS FROM THE NOVEMBER SPECIALIST SALE:

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE ANTIQUE VALUATION DAYS

Chinese Altar Table Sold for £5,950

Mandarin Robe Sold for £3,100

4 5 6 & 18 19 20 December 9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms No appointment necessary

Antiques, Interiors, Collectables & Jewellery Auction Thursday 14th December Sale starts at 10am On view day before 10am – 6.30pm

Tel: 01934 830111 or 0117 325 6789

The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT www.clevedon-salerooms.com

Jamini Roy (Indian 1887-1972) Gouache Sold for £8,650

Royal Mint 500th Anniversary coin set Sold for £3,450

2018 Auction Calendar now available We are currently accepting entries for our 15th March Quarterly Specialist Sale MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 37

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Arts trail success

End of an era in Wells

Jo Whiteland working on a batik painting

We will rise again: Tanith and Robin with a coffin popular with amateur dramatic productions

THE fifth Cam Valley arts trail included the work of 40 artists and crafts people. Chair of the group, Karen George, said: "We are delighted to have received so many positive comments from visitors, such as lovely vibe, fantastic artwork, extremely friendly and for the support given to all our local artists."

Oak, Pine and Country Furniture Vintage Fashion, Vinyl and Interiors

END OF AN ERA

THE last post will sound in March for the Wells Trading Post shop, marking the end of 20 years of being one of the most off-beat – and friendly – businesses in the city.

But it will not mean the end of the company.

Owners Tanith and Robin Tothill will be taking Wells Trading Post on the road, visiting antiques fairs and retro events with their famously-

eclectic mix of items.

The area around the business in a former mill in West Street has become increasingly residential – a retirement apartment complex is being built next door – and the couple say the situation has become untenable. Their commission-based sales style has also been affected by online competitors.

In typical fashion, the couple took to Facebook to make the announcement. They said: “It is with a heavy heart but a terrific sense of relief and excitement, we have made the decision to close the doors on March 31st 2018.

“We fully intend to remain in the trade we both love, so watch this space. Finally, it goes without saying, thank you. Thank you all for all your support. We wouldn't have managed 20 years without your custom, loyalty, laughs and company.

“We will not, however, miss hearing about your b*m operations or ingrowing toenail stories.”

Tanith added: “Our customers know our sense of humour so they’re amused by the statement. But the fact is that we are not a tourism attraction, but a business.” ● The couple will continue to trade under the Wells Trading Post Ltd banner and will be contactable online and via social media.

Mendip Valley antiques & COlleCtables NEW EXTENSION NOW FINISHED! Open everyday up to Christmas day 10.30am til 4pm.

Come and see lovely christmas gifts we have in stock including jewellery, watches and other curiosities.

We look forward to seeing old friends and new customers and would like to thank you for your support in 2017.

Old Priory Mill, West St, Wells, BA5 2HG. Tel: 01749 671454 & Market St. Courtyard, Wells BA5 2DS www.wellstradingpost.co.uk • email:tanithtradingpost@gmail.com PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

New Manor Farm Shop, Widcombe BS40 6HW Contact: mendipvalleyantiques@gmail.com 01761 221001 • 07966 387252 • Please visit our website: mendipvalleyantiquesandcollectables.co.uk FIND US ON FACEBOOK

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Travelling trunk attracts worldwide interest AT their sale of Antiques and Collectables on November 4th, Killens saw an excellent entry of some 650 lots go under the hammer with a travelling trunk by Louis Vuitton generating strong interest on the internet, telephone and in the room. After fierce bidding, the trunk was knocked down for £3,000.

A very strong entry of jewellery attracted many new buyers to join

familiar faces and a lady’s 18-carat gold Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust sold for £4,000. Other jewellery and similar items selling to advantage included a two-colour necklace £1,120, a 14-carat gold necklace £720, a 19-carat twocolour gold necklace (signed Ramot) £700 and a bracelet of two rows of solid curb links £550.

There was a good range of pictures and paintings on offer with a delightful oil on canvas of a young boy praying from the Continental School selling for £1,000 and an oil on board of orchids, signed Tchistorski, going for well above estimate at £950.

On November 14th, an entry of almost 400 lots of Victorian and later effects again attracted one of the largest crowds seen at the auction rooms and there was some really strong bidding for all on offer.

Entries are now being invited for forthcoming sales with the next sale being a two-day sale with Victorian and

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Later Effects on December 8th and Antiques and Collectables on December 9th. Valuation days are now taking place every day of the week from 10am to 1pm or members of the valuation team are happy to conduct a home visit free of charge.

A valuation day of silver, jewellery and collectables will also be held on market day in Wells at the offices of Killens in Sadler Street from 10am to 1pm on December 6th.

The auction rooms can be contacted on 01749 840770 or email enquiries@mendipauction rooms.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 39

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Sculptor’s poetry book

WORDS have always had a place in the work of sculptor Ian Marlow – literally. Some of his pieces include poetry in them.

Now Ian has produced a book of his verse which he launched at his debut appearance at this year’s Chester Art Fair.

Ian, of Buckland Dinham, near Frome, said: “I made some sculptures last year in glass and steel with my poems on them and people have kept asking for the poems, so for this art fair I’ve had some of my poetry put into a book. I’ve called it Sculpted Words because poetry is very much that, taking words, phrases, sounds, and forming them on a page to create an image or emotion.

“I enjoy poetry and writing and use it to explore ideas that cannot be expressed so easily in steel.

Some of the poems, like The Dreamer and Ariel, are used accompany a sculpture Ian’s book is now on sale or a drawing.”

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PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

The books are available through his website: www.ianmarlowsculpture.co.uk

Building on tradition

A NEW development for Charles Jarvis Ltd is the design and manufacture of shepherd’s huts, which are becoming increasingly popular for use as guest accommodation, office space, or

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Their shepherd’s huts are built to a traditional design, with oak windows and a stable door. Using the finest traditional materials, including green oak, they can discuss your specific design requirements, including the options for furnishing the interior, e.g. including a bed.

The huts have fully insulated walls, floor and roof with 3" and 4" Ecotherm, an all-year-round hut.

The huts come with wood burner, dresser, rack, shutters and panelling as standard and the chassis can be built from green oak to a size to suit your requirements. All the joinery and metalwork is handmade, and the huts are wired with a caravan hitch-up socket and consumer unit. There are detachable softwood steps and a Firestone rubberised roofing guarantee.

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Taking care of the family silver CO-OWNER of Beau Nash, Duncan Campbell, appears regularly as a silver specialist on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow and is retained as a silver consultant with various institutions, museums and livery companies.

He started with a stall on Portobello Road while still at university and (wisely) resigned from his job in the corporate finance department of a city merchant bank in 1993 to pursue his obsession fulltime. Having served his apprenticeship in the London silver trade Duncan has been based in Bath since 2001.

The expression “selling the family silver” is often used by politicians to criticise others’ choices of how to raise some cash. It is as if the family silver must be kept at all costs even in the face

of starvation. The truth is that our ancestors would not have recognised such a taboo on disposing of their silver stash.

In fact the whole point of building up a stock of silver is to be in a position to sell it should funds be required. Up until 1920 when cupronickel took over as the metal of our coinage, silver was literally money and has historically been treated as such, accumulated in the good times and sold off to fund the bad.

On the inventories of old houses, the silverware is only ever described with the briefest of detail “a cup” or “a dish” along with, as far as the owners were concerned, the most important information, the weight. Most 18th century silver pieces are inscribed on the base with their weight in ounces and pennyweights for the convenience of the owner should the melting pot call.

Thus, selling off the family silver was a perfectly legitimate thing to do. Only in the last hundred years or so have we been appreciative of “antique silver” to the extent that we do not tend to melt down a Georgian item to provide the metal for a

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

new item in the latest fashion. For hundreds of years such an exchange of old style for new was routine practice.

There is an account for Henry VIII receiving New Year’s gifts at court from the great and good of his kingdom and, once given, simply handing the gifts, most of which were silver or silver gilt, to the mint to turn into coin! The thought of all that 16th century magnificence being reduced to bullion is too awful to contemplate now.

Thankfully, nobody melts good antique silver anymore and selling the family silver must be seen as a perfectly rational thing to do as required, as natural in fact, as buying it in the first place.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 41

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HISTORY

Tribute to human rights pioneer ONE of the first people to use photography as a means of highlighting human rights atrocities has been honoured in her home town of Frome.

Descendants of Alice Seeley, Lady Harris, attended the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Frome Society for Local Study and Frome and District Civic Society on the site of her childhood home.

Born in 1870, Alice and her husband John Harris were married in 1898 and their honeymoon was a trip to the Congo Free State as Baptist missionaries. The state was the personal fiefdom of Leopold II King of the Belgians, a cousin of Queen Victoria.

They soon found that the natives were beaten and tortured by soldiers and overseers if “they had not produced enough rubber in a day”. The natives’ children had hands and feet amputated as punishment and their wives were raped.

Alice realised that only photographs of these horrors would be believed, so she used a primitive box-type camera to take hundreds of pictures and had the photographic plates shipped back to England.

The couple returned to England and began to give lectures about the atrocities, also travelling to the USA and Europe. The outrage led to the king ceding ownership of the Congo to Belgium in 1908. Later Alice and John returned to the Congo and found that there had been a real improvement in the treatment of the natives.

They became joint secretaries of the Congo Reform

The plaque is the latest in an ongoing series to be unveiled by the society

Guests at Merchants Barton in Frome, where Alice’s home once stood

Association and later John became secretary of the Anti-Slavery Society and a Liberal MP for which he was knighted.

Subsequently, John and Alice retired to Frome where they lived at Stonelands in Bath Road; John died there in 1940. Lady Alice was a member of the Frome Society; she died in Guildford in 1970. Exhibitions of her work – When Harmony Went to Hell – have been staged and the photographic plates are stored at the International Slavery Museum in Liverpool.

Richard Seeley-Harris, grandson of the couple, said: “She was an amazing woman with an extraordinary level of intellect. Only in recent years have I discovered what a wonderful woman she was. I am very proud of her.”

His daughter Rebecca added: “She was one of the very first people to use photography as evidence in a human rights campaign.”

Richard Seeley-Harris and his daughter Rebecca

O, woad is me – a history of Frome

HISTORIANS in Frome have published a new book about the town’s 600-year heritage of cloth weaving and dyeing.

Woad To This & The Cloth Trade of Frome is written by Carolyn Griffiths and is illustrated with full page pictures of the trade's industrial artefacts, especially the 18th century dye recipe books, formerly belonging to Welshmill and Wallbridge mills.

In 1802 the Rev. Richard Warner wrote: “All the labouring men, women and children at Frome as deeply tinged as

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Alice Seeley-Harris

ancient Britons with dark blue with the manufacture of cloth.”

The book, published by the Frome Society for Local Study, spans the woad and cloth trade in Frome from 1333 until the start of the industrial revolution.

Carolyn previously curated the acclaimed “Blue” events and exhibitions in the town.

Blue is the colour as new book celebrates She also grew woad in the garden of the Frome’s cloth industry Blue House for community dye vats. ● The book costs £24. Copies will also sale at The Sunday School, off Catherine be on sale on Sunday, December 3rd at Hill. For details visit: the Frome Textile Workshop Christmas www.woadtothis.com or www.fsls.org.uk

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• Clothing and Accessories • Cycle to Work Schemes • Quality New Bikes • Spares & Repairs • Cycle Hire

Seasons Greetings to all our customers

• Follow us on facebook for our latest news and offers

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What people say about Wells Funeral Services

● “ROD offers an extremely professional and keenly priced service. In what is always a stressful, emotional time, he is friendly, helpful and flexible, allowing you to tailor a service to suit the needs of you and your family. He is very easy to work with and operates a little gem of a company, well done and a heartfelt thank you.” N ● “I cannot thank you enough for making this awful time much easier and smoother than myself and my family expected rod went above and beyond and did exactly what was required for our needs. We were in a budget and his costs were by far the best around. Thank you again.” T ● “Arranging a funeral for a loved one is a very daunting prospect, Rod Major was very supportive of every detail we had in mind as a family. He was in no way pushy of the services he was able to offer, totally accepting of any arrangements we wanted to make ourselves. He made the whole process straightforward and professional for all the family. Thank you Rod.” M ● What a find. Wells Funeral Service were astounding in every way. At every step of the process Rod and his team guided us through this difficult time with compassion and professionalism. ”Nothing was too much trouble and his honest and realistic approach helped us give my mother the best send-off we could have given her.” L&K

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BUSINESS

All things wood

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Could Mendip get its own activity centre?

Chinese investment puts rug importers top of the pile

Ning and Laurel Li with Katya Maiseyeva and owners Joy and William Prior

THE Mendip Hills could be set to get a new “gateway” at the bottom of Burrington Combe, following the decision by John Godfrey to sell the Burrington Inn. It’s been bought by Holt Farms, the company behind Yeo Valley, together with the former garden centre next door.

The company are going to start a planning process which could turn the four-acre site into a centre that showcases the food, leisure, history and culture that the area has to offer.

John bought the pub, close to the iconic Rock of Ages, after working as a chef. He said: “I’ll be glad to get out of the kitchen after 30 years. I’m just going to do a bit of travelling to see all the things I haven’t been able to see.”

He and his wife Beverley moved there in 1987, with John in the kitchen and Beverley front of house.

Beverley died in 2011. They have two daughters, Daisy, a lawyer, and Lucy, who teaches keep fit.

The pub will host its last music night on December 23rd and will close on January 14th.

The new owners are expected to take possession in June and are promising wide consultation on how best to use the site.

A spokesman for Holt Farms said: “This is a great opportunity to create a gateway to the Mendips in a fantastic valley at the foot of the hills. Apart from our involvement with organic food, we support music through Valley Fest, cooking at our headquarters and flowers and horticulture at the farm.

“This is a way for us to expand those interests, hopefully involving other local businesses, to create a real asset which can be enjoyed by walkers, riders, cavers, cyclists, foodies, musos, artists and everyone else who enjoys the hills.”

PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

SOMERSET’S leading hand-made rug and crafts business has secured its long-term future thanks to significant investment from China.

Hallatrow-based Oriental Rugs of Bath is hoping the agreement could open up a new trading route into the fast-growing Far Eastern marketplace.

Manager Katya Maiseyeva said: “Our new investors Laurel and Ning Li heard about Oriental Rugs of Bath through a law firm in Manchester that specialises in connecting Chinese investors with UK SMEs.” The investment was made under the Government’s Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa scheme, which grants the investor a visa when they invest in a UK business.

Katya said: “This vital investment secures the long-term future of the business and makes a potentially fruitful connection with China.

“We were thrilled to show Laurel and Ning around the shop giving them a better understanding of our product range and our ambition to build our reputation as the South West’s premier handmade rug shop.”

Oriental Rugs of Bath sells hand-made, artisan rugs, kilims, bags, furniture and accessories from Afghanistan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Pakistan and Turkey.

They also provide bespoke rug cleaning and restoration for grand country houses in Somerset and the South West. Recently they were commissioned to restore a stunning collection of some 30 antique rugs – some more than 150 years old – that had been in the same aristocratic family since their purchase in the 19th Century.

The business moved to the mezzanine at the Bookbarn International HQ in Hallatrow in 2013 – after many years based in Argyle Street just off Pulteney Bridge in Bath.

Katya said: “Oriental Rugs of Bath is a constantly evolving business – we are hoping that this will be the first of a series of investments providing a firm foundation for future growth. We are also growing the team with the appointment of a marketing specialist.”

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Old books with a long shelf life OBSCURE and dusty texts are being given a new lease of life at Bookbarn International in Hallatrow – as background props for a range of period TV shows.

The team is fast becoming the go-to supplier for set designers and producers determined to ensure their background shots are as authentic as possible.

Bookbarn international customer relations manager, Janey Thornton, said: “As production values on many TV shows become more exacting it’s essential the surroundings and sets are just right.

“We have been called in to supply a range of books for use on the set of Outlander Series 3 and 4 – and also for the BBC Child in Time programme, which aired in September.

“We were thrilled to help out providing books for one of our all-time favourite shows – Doctor Who! It’s becoming a very useful sideline for us, helping production companies and museums to dress the most demanding set.”

Suitably dusty old tomes are also being used on the SS Great Britain – as part of a new exhibit replicating Brunel’s drawing office.

Visitors will be able to see where Brunel and his team worked to create the SS Great Britain – the whole office has been authentically refurbished including shelves full of volumes from that period.

Bookbarn International catalogues thousands of books online every week to sell them on many market places around the world including their own website.

BUSINESS

This year the company has supplied books in bulk to English language booksellers in Taiwan, Qingdao, Berlin and Dubai.

Janey said: “Luckily, we have more than three quarters of a million books to choose from at our Hallatrow HQ, so we can usually find something for the most particular of orders.

“Bookbarn books are being sold across the world as we establish links with reputable booksellers with a thirst for books in the English language. As demand rises we are getting more and more orders of this kind.”

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 47

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The perfect Christmas gift

Champagne balloon flights over the Chew Valley and Mendips

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Preparing your business for the future THE renowned playwright Christopher Fry, when aged 92, was so aware of the way that time was flying that he told a good friend that he felt as though he was having breakfast every five minutes. I don't know about you, but this year has felt just like that.

In fact, I haven't met anyone, no matter what their age or profession, who hasn't felt the same! When time is rushing past you, it can be difficult to keep a close eye on everything, but given that massive change is afoot for businesses, it is timely for us to do just that.

Currently, it would be fair to say that there are very few signs that the businesses that we know are suffering in the lead up to “you know what”, but, as Brexit (oops, slipped out there!) approaches, it is really important to be prepared.

There is a large element of the unknown for us all, but there is no doubt that a good way to approach this is to know your own business. It would be a good idea now to do a thorough check on everything, ensuring that you have set key performance indicators which can be used to monitor the business's core strength. It is upon this that we build our businesses.

Now, speaking as one who has been spending time at the gym lately (... though you really wouldn't know despite the blood, sweat and tears ... of laughter mostly) I can personally verify that strengthening one's core is extremely hard work.

It is no different with business. Attention to detail is key.

BUSINESS

Only when you know your business inside out can you plan most effectively for the future. This will help with plans for Making Tax Digital which will be happening within two years as well as with any other changes you, the Chancellor and Mrs May might have in mind!

We can and must learn from the history or our businesses (however short) to enable us to plan a better future.

Whatever “Thingummyjig” throws at us, we will get through it and we will survive; it's up to us how well we do that.

Jane Bowe Probusiness

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 49

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Christmas in Somerton

Spreading a little festive cheer

Toys donated to Puxton's appeal in the past

SOUTH West Brocante Fairs has announced two Christmas Fairs to be held in the picturesque town of Somerton. The new Somerset Brocante Fair will have a wide selection of vintage, retro, antiques, and artisan crafts.

There are some great gift ideas for all ages and you are sure to find something special for the home or garden. The fairs promise a wonderful festive day out with lots to see in this amazing town.

The fair opens at 10am at the Unicorn car park in the centre of Somerton with free parking throughout the town.

Details: www.swbrocante.com or Facebook

PUXTON Park has launched its annual Christmas toy appeal for gifts to be distributed to children’s hospital wards and to Children’s Hospice South West, promising to match every toy donated.

It’s also supporting those less fortunate by linking up with Weston Food Bank to help feed families in need.

Alistair Mead, Puxton managing director, said: “Puxton is committed to helping the local community and has operated a toy appeal for the past ten years. We are extremely grateful for the support shown and hope the community will get behind our initiative to help bring extra smiles to children experiencing difficult times.

“Every Christmas we also support homeless charity, Comfort and Warmth, by donating turkeys to feed those visiting the festive shelter.

“This was something that my father, Derek, was proud to be a part of and we will continue to support the charity, as well as linking up with Weston Food Bank.

“We have asked the charity to install donation boxes in our farm shop and hope visitors will show their support and help feed families in need across the region.”

Toy appeal gifts can be taken to reception from now until December 15th ready for delivery on December 19th and 20th, while food donations can be left in the food bins.

Puxton Park is holding its first ever Grand Christmas Lights switch-on event on December 2nd together with the ribbon cutting for its Cosy Cottage Christmas feature.

Details: 01934 523500 or visit www.puxton.co.uk

PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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A very Victorian Christmas at Somerset Rural Life Museum

SOMERSET Rural Life Museum will be stepping back in time for “A Very Victorian Christmas”, a twoday event on Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd with special free entry.

Visitors will be able to see a Victorian household preparing for Christmas with the farmhouse decorated and the team dressed in authentic Victorian costume.

Children can discover the magic of Christmas past in Santa’s Grotto, and receive a quality-wrapped present. There will be fun-packed activities for a crafty Christmas too; make Victorian Christmas decorations, crackers and paper snowflakes and take them home as gifts for family and friends. Throughout December families can also enjoy children’s Christmas trails around the museum.

Visitor Services Manager Robin Savill said: “We are very excited to welcome Santa into our new museum. Children can tell him what is at the top of their Christmas wish list, and all our visitors can indulge their senses within the farmhouse, traditionally bedecked with mistletoe, holly and ivy.”

On the Sunday, the museum will also be holding a jolly sing-and-dance with Beetlecrushers, a foot-tapping, clog and step dance group who perform at folk festivals around the country in Victorian and Edwardian inspired costume.

Somerset Rural Life Museum is part of The South West Heritage Trust, an independent charity that protects and celebrates the region’s rich heritage. The museum re-opened in June with a new line-up of events and exhibitions. Visitors to “A Very Victorian Christmas” can also enjoy a last chance to see the temporary art exhibition FARM by Kate Lynch, featuring more than 40 paintings and drawings made on local farms.

Booking is essential for Santa’s Grotto (£5 to include a present) on 01458 831197 or by emailing SRLM@swheritage.org.uk

Holiday gift

STUCK for a gift idea that will get them over the moon with excitement? Looking for that special “something” that will get their imagination whirring? Then look no further! Give the gift of a motorhome adventure.

The Motorhome Holiday Company say they’re proud to launch their gift voucher promotion – the perfect gift for your loved ones whatever the occasion.

They have vouchers available at a range of prices, starting at just £50, and have supplied motorhome adventures as gifts to children, parents and friends for birthdays, Christmas and Father’s Day. Details: www.motorhomeholidaycompany.com

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 51

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Protecting the environment

Harriet Sandys Exotic gifts from around the world

Oriental carpets & Decorative items from Central Asia and India. e Barn at e Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PB (signposted from A361) Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd December 2-5pm Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th December 2-5pm Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th December 2-5pm

Tel: 01749 890 582 • www.sandysorientalcarpets.co.uk

THE IDEAL CHRISTMAS PRESENT

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A GLASTONBURY HOLY THORN TREE Crataegus Monogyna Biflora – It’s The Real Thing!!!

Available from Malcolm Slocombe Four Seasons 16 High Street, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 9DU Telephone No: 01458 832061 Now available in Patio size

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HOLLOWMARSH try to be as environmentally friendly as they possibly can. Real Christmas trees support life by absorbing carbon dioxide and other gases and emitting fresh oxygen. Growing real Christmas trees stabilizes soil, protects water supplies and provides a refuge for wildlife whilst creating a scenic environment.

Most growers clear-cut their Christmas trees, which involves growing hundreds of trees the same age. The wildlife flourishes during the 12 years that the trees are growing then, come Christmas, the entire plantation is harvested, creating devastation for the wildlife living there.

Hollowmarsh practice the Irregular Shelterwood System, with trees of different ages in every ten-metre square, therefore creating a positive effect on the wildlife. They also encourage birds and ladybirds to control Christmas tree aphids where most large growers use insecticides, pesticides and hormones to make the perfect shaped tree.

The government are considering making these chemicals illegal because of the environmental and human costs of using them. As for the age-old problem of needle drop, the best solution is the freshness of your tree. Some 99% of trees are cut two weeks to a month before they are purchased, with even the so-called non-drop trees dropping. Hollowmarsh cut your tree as you wait so needle drop is rarely a problem with any trees they grow.

Why not visit them, even if you don’t buy a fresh tree, you will enjoy the experience.

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Unusual and exotic gifts for Christmas

PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

THE Barn at the Manor House, situated in the tiny hamlet of West Compton near Shepton Mallet, is a veritable treasure trove of wonderful and unusual oriental textiles and gifts that you don’t find in the High Street.

It is well worth a visit if you are looking for something different and special to give as a wedding present or Christmas gift.

Harriet Sandys started her business in the early 1980s while working with Afghan refugees in Pakistan’s North-West Frontier.

The barn stocks ladies’ knee-length wool coats and jackets from India, beautiful velvet coats from Morocco for Christmas parties and a wide range of cotton nightwear and kaftans – ideal for those seeking some winter sun.

Oriental rugs, runners and tribal kilims from Turkey, Afghanistan and Iran decorate the walls of the barn. There are carved wood chests and tables from the mountain villages of Swat in northern Pakistan and a fabulous assortment of hand-woven silk and wool scarves as well as colourful Nepalese slippers for children and adults.

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CHRISTMAS TREES Premium West Country grown

and lots of perfect PLANTS for that perfect present

Open 7 days a week 10.00am-4.30pm until 23rd December inclusive Also open until 7pm on 6th and 13th December

FLY A GLIDER! THE IDEAL GIFT!

Mendip Gliding Club is located near Cheddar and offers a variety of Glider Flying packages including Introductory Flight Vouchers (from £40), or regular membership and “Fixed Price To Solo” options. Club is open all year on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Suitable for aged 12 upwards – no upper limit! Fly with BGA-rated instructors in dual control gliders. For further information, please visit our website at:

www.mendipgliding.co.uk or contact Penny Broad 01275 340827 (Marketing)

COLUMBARD PET SHOP 62 High St, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DQ

FRESH HOLLY WREATHS DUE IN 9TH DECEMBER – JUST £6.50 EACH HAND MADE LOCALLY SPECIALIST RAW PET FEEDING SUPPLIER WITH OVER 100 RAW PRODUCTS STOCKED Guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, fancy rats, budgies, canaries, finches, tortoises, bearded dragons, geckos, turtles, tropical & coldwater fish all in stock with everything needed for their care at brilliant prices.

Reservations for Christmas gifts now being taken but very importantly:

PLEASE REMEMBER – ALL PETS ARE FOR LIFE, NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS!

Tel 01761 412957 columbardpetsupplies.co.uk PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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Winscombe Fish Bar

Traditional high quality food from friendly and reliable staff

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

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

1, Sandford Road, Winscombe

01934 843666

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Stocking over 140 HERBS & SPICES Nuts, Seeds, Rice, Pulses, Grains, Herbal Teas, Natural Sweeteners Eco Cleaning Products including refills Gluten Free • Dairy Free Fair Trade Gifts and more!

Less packaging – Less waste!

Sandford Road, Winscombe BS25 1HD Telephone: 01934 843822 101 High Street, Yatton BS49 4DR Telephone: 01934 835427

Curry Catering at a venue of your choice!

OSTEOPATHY ACUPUNCTURE HOMEOPATHY NUTRITION

Janet White DO Dan Lloyd Patricia Clark Linda Thomas

Eco friendly and a warm welcome on shopping night

SCOOP & Spice is a small family-run business selling a wide range of wholefoods, including spices, rice, nuts, seeds, pulses, dried fruits, gluten free and vegan products.

They stock a wide range of scoop items so you can buy the amount you want, as well as Eco refills for washing up liquid, laundry liquid, fabric conditioner and hand soap. There are also organic olive oil refills available.

They have been awarded a silver Fair Trade business award. Pop in for a browse.

BIRDS BAKERY

MING! C H RI S T MAS I S C O n c e p i e s s • Mi C h r i s t m as p u d d i n g S pe c i al i t y b r e a d s

c e mb e r 5 th O p e n u n t i l 9p m D e

Tel: Winscombe 01934 842210

Litsters Traditional Butcher 10 Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1AA Tel: 01934 842811 Email: enquiries@brgplaw.co.uk

Friendly local office with car park at rear Home visits by arrangement Quotations given without obligation

• Residential & Commercial conveyancing • Divorce and Family Breakdown • Wills and Probate • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Special Needs of the Elderly

Wishing all of our clients a very Merry Christmas

PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Orders now being taken for Christmas 27 Woodborough Road Winscombe North Somerset BS25 1AG

01934 842248 Mob: 07772 007128

clivelitster@tiscali.co.uk

Season’s greetings to all our customers old and new

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Merry Christmas – and Happy Birthday!

FOCUS ON WINSCOMBE

THE Global Independent Travel Centre has a special treat in store for Winscombe Shopping Night – a couple of donkeys will join them for the evening.

Youngsters will be asked to guess their names, with the winners receiving tickets to Mendip Ski Centre.

Lisa Weakley and her staff, Charlotte Harris and Natasha Carter, have just celebrated their first anniversary in Winscombe – Lisa has another successful travel agents in Clevedon.

She said: “It’s been excellent, a really good year.”

In January they will release their Global Traveller brochure, full of holiday ideas. Also watch out for special theme evenings, including river cruises and a guide to holidays in Asia.

5

December

WINSCOMBE Shopping Night, Tuesday, December 5th, 6–9pm

A warm welcome in Winscombe – and Wedmore

THE Country House Gift Company is looking forward to welcoming customers in the busy run-up to Christmas and will be joining in the celebrations for Wedmore by Lamplight and Winscombe’s Shopping Night this year.

The stores in Wedmore and Winscombe carry different ranges of Christmas gifts, seasonal homewares, cards and wrappings, with a focus on stocking those extra-special treats made locally or in Britain.

New product ranges include Chocoholic’s Kitchen made in small batches in Somerset, stunning gin and prosecco glassware, toys and teddies and even their own range of published Christmas cards. Shop online at www.countryhousegiftcompany.co.uk.

Halloween fun

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 57

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NEWS

Walkers go the extra mile

CHEDDAR Walking Group is celebrating its second anniversary just as the national umbrella organisation is notching up a decade of supporting communities that encourage walking.

In the last ten years, Walkers Are Welcome towns and villages have developed 1,200 walks totalling more than 6,342 miles and raised money for their local economies.

The Cheddar group has already been responsible for improving signage, developing a website, publishing walks and attracting hundreds of followers on social media. To join the national network, it had to show its commitment to the scheme by helping to check and maintain footpaths, developing and promoting new walks and improving the experience for visitors.

Chairman of the group, Huw Robson, said: “We were keen to start the group to promote Cheddar and its beautiful surroundings as a place where people could feel confident of finding walks suitable for a range of abilities and interests.

“We have been delighted with the level of support we have had from local businesses and the response from visitors has been really encouraging with an incredible 20,000 downloads of our free walking guides from the website.”

Helped by grants from Cheddar Parish Council, Sedgemoor District Council and the Mendip Hills AONB, the group has produced professionally-designed information boards with an

Working wonders with words WORDSMITH Tony Walsh never missed a beat when he mixed up the letters of the alphabet in a rhyme that had children at Chewton Mendip school transfixed – and the adults present were very impressed as well.

The children responded by singing the – correct version – impeccably and the poet had them transfixed.

The visit by Manchester’s most famous poet – never mind Noel and Liam Gallagher – was the latest in a tour of 21 Somerset schools in the space of ten days, organised by Wells Festival of Literature as part of its educational programme.

Each year, profits from the festival – which this year celebrated its 25th anniversary – are used to support school projects which aim to promote a love of literature and creativity.

They have included drama productions, visits by authors, poets and rappers, support of book groups and financial support for theatre trips.

Tony, who came to wider prominence this year after his leading role in the moving tribute to the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing with his rendition of This is the

Transfixed by the power of words

PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Huw Robson with one of the new Cheddar walking boards

illustrated map of the area. The first one of these is already in place in Cliff Street car park and more are on their way. ● Walks are available, for a small donation, from the National Trust shop in the gorge. Cheddar Walking’s next led walk is on Wednesday, December 27th in partnership with the Mendip Society. The four-mile (or so) walk will leave from outside the Gardener’s Arms in Silver Street, Cheddar at 10.30. All welcome.

For details, visit: www.cheddarwalking.org.uk

Tony with youngsters from Chewton Mendip school

Place, had visited Whitstone Academy in Shepton Mallet in March where the festival team saw him in action with Year 9 students and were very impressed. They then suggested that Tony, who was the Glastonbury Festival poet-in-residence in 2011, visit the area as a visiting poet to work with other schools. Hilary Cain, from the literature festival said: “We initially envisaged this being for three days, but such was the response from primary and secondary schools that we extended this to a two-week stay!

His visit has been a Once upon a time, the alphabet began with “J” – the poet in action wonderful success.”

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Fayre for hospice

Businesses at Rookery Farm at Binegar are once again joining forces for a Christmas fair to raise money for charity.

This year, they will be supporting Children’s Hospice South West with craft activities, cakes, toys, taster sessions and discount offers – along with a visit by Father Christmas and Santa Paws!

The Rookery Farm Christmas Fayre takes place on Saturday, December 2nd, from 10am-2pm.

There will be fun for all the family at Rookery Farm on Saturday, December 2nd

Mendip Rural Services Ltd.

Under one roof

MENDIP Rural Services at Rookery Farm is now offering an even bigger selection of garden and maintenance equipment along with an expanded range of accessories.

Aaron Coleman, who runs the sales, servicing and repairs business as well as providing contractor services, is now stocking Oregon Products – from gloves to chain guide bars – and a full range of Motex quality garden machinery and outdoor power tools. There is also an expanded section of oils and lubricants.

Aaron is offering a 10% discount on winter servicing for both ride-on and pedestrian lawnmowers if booked in advance before Saturday, December 23rd.

The showroom offers an impressive range of products

Lots more at this country store

Visit our showroom for:

La wnmower s & ga r de n ma c hi ne r y Sa l e s , s par e s , s e r v i c e & r e pa i r s Tool s ha r pe ni ng Cha i ns a w c ha i ns ma de & r e s ha r pe ne d Pe r s ona l pr ot e c t i on e qui pme nt

10% discount on all lawnmower services – ride-on and pedestrian – booked before Saturday, December 23rd

01749 840848•07491 665290 E-mail: mendipruralservices@outlook.com Website: www.mendipruralservices.co.uk Unit 8, Rookery Farm, Binegar, Radstock BA4 3UL. Tel: 01749 840848 PAGEP??

AGE •M 60ENDIP • MENDIP TIMES TIMES • DECEMBER • DECEMBER 2011 2017

There is always something new at Greens of Mendip

LITTLE stays the same at Greens of Mendip Country Store at Rookery Farm at Binegar – except for the high standard of service, that is.

Owner Emma Green is always looking to improve the range of goods on offer and responding to customers’ requests, whether that’s for country clothing to jewellery, gifts or pet food.

Emma has recently added the top-quality and awardwinning Canagan range of grain-free dog and cat food. The premium range is available in both wet and dry formats and uses wholesome meat and fish. Only certain outlets meeting Canagan’s criteria are able to stock the range and Emma is delighted to be one of them: “They’re a proudly British company and use only the best ingredients.”

Emma – who runs the Paws to Claws grooming parlour at Greens of Mendip – will be another business offering a 10% discount on products during the Christmas fair.

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A busy year for piano experts

CHRISTMAS AT ROOKERY FARM Becky & Mark at Abbey Piano Services would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year

w w w . a b b e yp i a n o s e r vi c e s . c o . u k E m a i l : s a l e s @ a b b e yp i a n o s e r vi c e s . c o . u k R o o k e r y Fa r m , B in e g ar B A 3 4 UL T el ep h o ne : 0 1 74 9 8 40 8 80

Part of the team: Jo (left) with Becky and Mark in the piano showroom

THE past 12 months have flown by for Mark and Becky Doman after opening their Abbey Piano Services showroom and workshop at Rookery Farm.

As the first anniversary of their move from Chilcompton approaches, the couple are busier than ever and say the decision to relocate has been a great success. So much so, that they have taken on Becky’s lifelong friend Jo Francis-Lamb to help them.

The piano tuning services side of the business has also been developing with Mark working at several independent schools in the area.

Jo was new to the world of piano restoration when she agreed to join Becky and Mark; her background is in equestrianism. But she says the couple’s expertise is rubbing off: “I knew what a piano looked like, but had no idea there were so many parts making up an instrument. Restoration really is a skill that you learn on the job.”

Becky said: “The move to Rookery Farm was a very good one; all the business owners get on well and there is a real sense of us being part of a community here.”

Abbey Piano Services will be offering 10% off selected pianos during the Christmas fair on Saturday, December 2nd.

Podiatry consultations on offer during fair

SUE Boothroyd, podiatrist at Foot Faerie Podiatry Practice, will be joined by Simon Crutchley, podiatrist, to offer free advice and consultation sessions during the Christmas Fair.

Sessions will last between 10 and 15 minutes and could cover a range of advice including nail conditions, diabetic foot advice and foot related aches and pains, all in exchange for a donation to Children’s Hospice South West. The advice sessions are open to anyone who is not already a patient at the clinic.

Sue, known as the “gentle podiatrist”, said: “We’re each donating an hour of our time to offer the consultations; we thought that was a lovely way to contribute towards this important charity.”

The consultations must be booked in advance by calling 01749 372404.

Foot Faerie Podiatry Practice Unit 11, Rookery Farm, Binegar, BA3 4UL Tel: 01749 372404 Web: www.footfaerie.co.uk

A huge choice of pet food including our new Canagan premium range Country clothing and accessories inc. wide choice of bags and scarves Pet accessories, treats and more – with plenty of ideas for Christmas And not forgetting our in-house dog and cat grooming parlour Greens of Mendip: 01749 841293 For grooming appointments call: 01749 841842 Rookery Farm, Binegar BA3 4UL MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 61

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G et ti n g cr a ft i e r a t R o o ke ry F a r m AN opportunity to make personalised Christmas cards and gift tags will be on offer at Somer Craft Addix during the Rookery Farm Christmas fair.

Sarah Robertson and her team will be asking for donations for charity in return for the chance to make the festive season extra special for a loved one – and will also be offering 10% off the ever-expanding range of materials in stock.

The make-and-take session will also be a chance for people new to Somer Craft Addix to meet Sarah’s niece, Megan Woods, who has joined the friendly team. Megan, who lives in Pilton, has just completed an apprenticeship in business administration, through

SOMER CRAFT ADDIX

For all your paper crafting needs!

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS AND CRAFT CLUBS

Imagination Crafts • Creative Expressions • Iris Folding • Stylecraft yarns • Woodware • Pan Pastels • Various dies, inks and much more!

Now selling on Ebay: http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Somer-Craft-Addix Open Tues-Fri: 10am-4.30pm Sat: 10am-2pm

CHRISTMAS AT ROOKERY FARM

Megan (left) and Sarah – Megan has recently joined the friendly team at Somer Craft Addix

Somerset Skills and Learning in Frome, and will be applying her knowledge to the business’s growing presence online.

Sarah has recently begun selling materials on Ebay but has also changed the shop’s opening times to create more time for shoppers and people attending the popular craft workshops held there.

Sarah, who is celebrating her fourth year in business, said: “We are now seeing customers coming from Bristol, Nailsea and the Yeovil area.

“Rookery Farm is very accessible and we have plenty of parking outside.”

A traditional Christmas at Hartley’s

Unit 6, Rookery Farm, Binegar, Radstock BA3 4UL

01749 840567 • 07739 048679

e best of this Christmas is at

Hartley’s Cafe Bistro

On the 1st day of Christmas the Festive Season began at Hartley's On the 2nd day of Christmas the fresh Christmas Tree was decorated On the 3rd day of Christmas the mulled wine was ready to serve On the 4th day of Christmas there was three bird roast on the table On the 5th day of Christmas there was Christmas pudding & brandy butter On the 6th day of Christmas family parties pulled Christmas crackers On the 7th day of Christmas we booked the New Year’s Day Jazz Brunch On the 8th day of Christmas steaming hot chocolate kept out the cold On the 9th day of Christmas there was game terrine and pineapple chutney On the 10th day of Christmas there was steak & chestnut mushroom pie On the 11th day of Christmas meet friends for a champagne breakfast On the 12th day of Christmas Santa-Claus is serving hot mince pies

Hartley's Kitchen where Christmas is special every day Hartleys Kitchen, Rookery Farm, Binegar, BA3 4UL Tel 01749 841718 or visit www.hartleyskitchen.com for everything!

PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Doing it in style: Beccie Matts, Linda and Paul Hartley and Billie Keyworth take delivery of the first of this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau, thanks to a friend’s Aston Martin DB9 GT. Sports, classic and vintage car clubs are regular visitors to the cafe

CHRISTMAS evolved from a time when branches of holly, fir and ivy were hung around doors to show everlasting life in the bleak dark winter and gifts of food given to the poor.

Christmas is a great celebration at Hartley's Kitchen at Binegar in a very traditional way: real Christmas trees decked with lights and charms, fir and holly adorn the restaurant and the menu says it all.

Traditional three-bird roast of a turkey stuffed with a duck stuffed with a pheasant served with home-made cranberry sauce, perfect roast potatoes and winter vegetables. Together with fillet steak with port, shallot and marrowbone butter, slow roast belly pork and pan fried sea bass with beetroot, potatoes and grapefruit salad. Taste buds tingling yet? The menu is available from December 1st to Christmas Eve. Lots of starters, delicious desserts, mulled wine and a log fire set the perfect pre-Christmas scene. Hartley's opens on New Year’s Day with a live Jazz Brunch and a perfect menu to blow away the post-Christmas blues.

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New Year, new opportunities at Bath College IF you’re looking for a new way to challenge yourself in the New Year take a look at Bath College’s Love2learn part-time leisure courses.

It’s easy to add a course at Bath College to the top of your New Year’s resolutions list. You can visit their student advice centre, pick up a prospectus or visit their website where every course is listed.

They provide a wide range of courses to make sure there’s something for everyone – from art, photography, cookery and floristry to business, computing and property maintenance.

You can choose from a five-week introductory course in philosophy or art appreciation, or learn how to create your own blog with their new Writing for Social Media course.

In January, they start their beginners’ courses in French, German, Spanish, Japanese and Italian. These courses are ideal if you have no previous language skills but want to be able to have a simple conversation.

They’re also looking forward to welcoming students who’d like to study garden design. You’ll learn about design principles, surveying techniques, patios, ponds and turf with award-winning gardener Christine Pritchard.

For sewing fans, there’s a ten-week course where you can learn how to make Roman blinds and London blinds with a specialist tutor to guide you through measuring up,

EDUCATION

marking up and fitting. Or, if you haven’t used a sewing machine before, they have a new sewing skills course which will help you learn machine stitch skills and how to follow a pattern.

If you’re looking to decorate your house, you can learn more about this on their new wallpaper hanging course.

They hold a number of courses at their Somer Valley Campus, including a four-week motor vehicle maintenance course.

This will teach people a range of basic skills, including removing a wheel if you get a flat tyre, inspecting brake discs, and checking tyre pressures. It’s perfect for young people starting to learn to drive and would also suit drivers who want to cut the cost of routine maintenance.

Anna Dawson, Love2learn co-ordinator at Bath College, is looking forward to a new year and welcoming new and regular students.

She said: “Last year, we welcomed over 2,000 students from all over the region who came to use looking to further their skills for work or leisure. We’re expecting another busy year in 2018, so I would encourage people to sign up for courses as early as possible.”

Throughout December their Advent Calendar will include discounts and special offers on Love2learn courses.

Details: To take advantage of these offers visit www.bathcollege.ac.uk/advent2017 before you enrol.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 63

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EVENTS

Community spirits

CAMERTON Community Centre hosted its biggest event of the year, the Village Hallowe’en Party, when committee and friends took hours decorating the hall which looked absolutely amazing.

Doughnut bobbing

Adult entries

Ubley craft fair

Villagers turned up in their droves for what was to prove the night of the year, culminating in a visit from actor Antony Head and his wife, Sarah Fisher, who judged the fancy dress competition.

Junior entries

THE annual craft and gift fair held at Ubley village hall raised £850 for Ubley Primary School PTA and the village hall.

Kate and Laura with their handmade Christmas cards PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

PTA members serving refreshments Jan Gibbs, Emily Maybe, Amanda Crawford and Rachele Snowden

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WILDLIFE

An impressive bird – the great white egret

THE shortest day is almost upon us and the longest night looms.

The one bird guaranteed to be singing through even

By CHRIS the darkest of days is SPERRING the robin, that emblem MBE of Christmas. Its uplifting song is symbolic of the longer days to come and the feeling that spring is just around the corner.

Positivity is all around us in nature, a fact I was reminded of just the other day when I stopped at Chew Valley Lake. As I got out of my car on Herriots Bridge I was confronted by a large number of birds which even a few years ago would not have been there at all.

Standing at around a metre tall, and with stunning snow white plumage and a 170cm wingspan, the great white egret is certainly an impressive bird.

Its smaller relative, the little egret, has become a familiar sight in recent years, but the two are relatively easy to tell apart.

Apart from the size difference (with the little egret being around 60cm tall), the great white egret has a yellow bill, whereas the little egret’s bill is black. Both have black legs, but the little egret has yellow feet, although you’re unlikely to see these as they will usually be standing in shallow water.

As I was watching, and attempting to count, this group of egrets a minibus full of people pulled up beside me and suddenly I became a tour guide! The group were both fascinated and surprised to see such large, unfamiliar birds, which looked far larger than the more familiar herons which were standing nearby. One of the questions I was asked was: “Are they cranes?”

They are, of course, not related to cranes, but are closely related to herons and if you get the opportunity to watch them hunting in the shallows of open water you will see how much like herons they really are.

They walk slowly through the water pausing frequently to look down, then as they spot potential prey they draw back their long neck and then thrust forward at speed, using their long, strong bill to spear their victim. Their diet is similar to herons, consisting predominantly of shallow water fish, frogs and other amphibians, along with small mammals and birds, especially young waterfowl.

It was on Natural England's Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve on the Somerset Levels that this egret first started breeding in the UK just five years ago.

A little white and great white egret

Spot the egret…

They are common further south in Europe and seem to be naturally expanding their range northwards as wetland habitats improve and the climate warms.

Egrets were native to Britain but died out due largely to hunting and water pollution.

Their impressive white feathers became highly fashionable in Victorian times and they were killed in huge numbers. The fact that they’re now back, and thriving here, is a real conservation success story.

So, let’s welcome in the new year with a new species – or the return of an old one. I hope you find this wonderful success story as heartening as I do. It is really something to be celebrated, and just shows that nature can always fight back when given the space to do so.

Happy Christmas to all!

Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him on 07799 413 918 or chris.sperring@btinternet.com

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 65

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A city stroll for Christmas

THIS is a voyage of discovery in Bristol – ideal for an easy winter walk. Visit the huge willow whales along the Portway, cross the Downs, visit an old terraced garden, once part of a splendid estate and go through a wildlife reserve with a peaceful pond. Start with spectacular views across the Avon Gorge and drop down to a footpath close alongside the River Avon in the gorge. Near the end, the Community Forest Path leads through Sneyd Park and on to the Downs

again. There is a steep downhill section near the start and a few stepped steep climbs in the old terraced garden of Bishops Knoll as well as a steady, gentle uphill stretch through Sneyd Park.

PARK: on Clifton Downs in Bristol.

Take Bridge Valley Road, A4176 up from the Portway, take first left Fountains Hill and then left again on Circular Road which goes along the edge of the gorge on Clifton Downs. Park near the first viewpoint not far along by an information board about peregrine falcons. Don’t go too much further on or you may miss the footpath.

START: Enjoy the view out across the river – can you spot any falcons? Then continue along the road for a few minutes. Near the 20mph sign and before the left bend look to the left, set back by the trees, and see a medium wooden post with a plaque about the restored footpath.

1. STEPS Take the path through a large metal kissing gate and on down the Victorian Steps in this quiet valley – the Gully.

Pass a circular stone air outlet for the Severn Beach railway line which cuts under the Downs at this point. You may also see white goats grazing the slopes to keep the vegetation under control.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

2. PORTWAY Continue down to the Portway. Turn right along the verge (watch out for the

bus lane) and cross on the island and then follow the pavement with the river left, getting a great view of the formidable cliffs where climbers may be tackling the heights.

3. FOOTPATH After 7-8 minutes, take the first footpath left down to the river. Continue for about 18 minutes close by the water until the path gets nearer to the road, just before a curve in the Avon. Turn up right on the stepped, railed path to the Portway.

4. ROAD Cross with great care to footpaths opposite – take the right hand path – and shortly turn down steps right in the woodland and follow the path along the side. Fork right downhill on a well maintained path. Bend right down towards the road and then left and come into Old Sneyd Path Nature Reserve through a gate alongside the railway. Go through rushes to the open reserve and walk ahead along the bottom. A gate ahead leads into one part of Bishops Knoll woodland. It has a mix of veteran exotic and ancient trees. The whole estate was originally a medieval deer park. Go up the steps and on until you reach a crossing track with a wall ahead.

(We return here later). Now turn right to cross the railway.

5. WHALES Come into Bennetts Patch and White’s Paddock reserves and follow the path

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WALKING L

along the edge passing the Bristol Whales willow sculptures. They give a message about caring for the environment and wildlife and hark back to the whaling trade which took place in Sea Mills nearby. Continue along on a smaller path.

6. BISHOPS KNOLL Turn left under a rail tunnel and climb steeply up steps into the old terraced gardens of Bishops Knoll. A large manor house called Bishops Knoll became the home of Robert Bush who had made a fortune in Australia as a sheep farmer.

During WW1 the house was turned into a hospital for injured Australian soldiers which Robert and his wife ran at their own expense. It was demolished in 1972.

The Woodland Trust has taken over the garden and arboretum and volunteers are working to improve it. The manor sat up high above the garden but was demolished and replaced by flats.

Turn left on the terraced path. Ignore steps right. Keep on passing a small orchard and going round the corner along the orchard wall. Then you can either stay on this bottom path, which takes you past several labelled trees such as a western cedar and giant redwood, and eventually turn up steps to come out onto the track where you were earlier near the rail bridge. Or, go along the top – turn up the steep flight of steps here. Turn left and follow the path along the top ignoring side paths. Finally the path turns downhill left and then right to exit through a gate onto the track.

Turn left and immediately right, retracing your steps back to the nature reserve.

About 4.1 miles, 2.75 hours walking OS Explorer 155, Bristol & Bath, Grid ref: 563 741

Park. Turn right and shortly, at a Tjunction, turn down right. At the next Tjunction, turn left. Opposite a small thatched cottage turn right up Mariners Drive passing some of the large homes in this select area. This is a gentle climb under a beautiful avenue of trees.

Opposite house no 10, go left by a metal railing and through onto a crossing path -the Community Forest Path. Follow it up right, cutting through the heart of Sneyd Park. Maintain direction, cross Church

Road and continue the gentle climb.

Further on join Julian Road leading to the Downs.

9. DOWNS Either turn right on the common and follow the road along and then left all the way back to the start. Or, better still, go across the Downs, bearing slightly right and head down the full length, going between bushes, and eventually return to the road where you parked.

7. RESERVE Turn up right through the open area. Go through a gate into another area and on to the end and another gate. To see, and maybe sit by, the peaceful pond bear right. To continue, follow the path on up and leave the reserve.

8. SNEYD PARK Come up into a residential road in Sneyd

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 67

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OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s diary ANOTHER Christmas is upon us and I don’t think that I have really got my head around it just yet. As for seasonal weather, how do we With LES define that these DAVIES MBE days? There can be no doubt that our weather is changing, it’s warmer and wetter through the winter and I don’t recall any snow to speak of on Mendip this time.

Having said that, there will no doubt be a fall of the seasonal white stuff at some stage, but just when and how much, is anyone’s guess.

I have spoken before about the idealised “Christmas” world of the greeting card and the Giles cartoon books, with Christmas cards that seem to be set in the Georgian period of the early 1800s. The “Quality Street” chocolate box characters stood waiting by the mail coach in the snow, whilst servants with sleeves rolled up load their baggage onto the roof.

I know it wasn’t that romantic, probably very grotty and cold, but what's wrong with a little bit of romance at this time of year?

Charles Dickens and his famous Mr Pickwick character is always worth another read. How I love the way he paints the picture with words, although he was a man who believed in using ten words, when one would have been quite sufficient. Mr Pickwick and his “chums” got up to all sorts of merrymaking and drinking especially at Christmas and, as ever, he was backed up by his stolid manservant, Sam Weller.

Sam, I feel, would never let Mr Pickwick get into too much trouble and would always be on hand to “bang some heads together” should the need ever arise. I do remember one outing to Bristol and Bath in the Pickwick Papers.

Most of it as I recall took place in the much nicer area of Clifton and the Downs – highly unlikely that Mr Pickwick would be seen in and around the rougher areas of the city!

So with a good book and the fire set well in the hearth, what better way is there to spend Christmas day? Many will be out for the traditional family

walk where new hats and coats can be given their first outing. Many will have been expelled from the house until the lunch can be made ready and others may just want to run away for an hour or so.

Whatever the reason it’s always nice to go for a “Bimble”. From the ashes of Christmas excess will rise the Phoenix of exercise on a regular basis in the New Year. How many “step counters” will be given as presents this year and how many copies of the splendid walking book, Miles more Mendip by Sue Gearing and me will find their way into the Christmas stockings of the needy?

Sometimes I think we get all “gifted out”. What shall we buy for others and what would we like for ourselves?

Practical, everyday useful gifts are always well received, but gentleman I would draw the line at buying your lady any “white goods” or household appliances – they never go down very well and it’s highly likely that you may well end up wearing something other than a party hat!

New boots normally figure in my list of needs and there will always be plenty of socks. In fact I am still going through the box of 60 pairs that were given me on my 60th birthday. But what news of the latest “must have” gismo that will be in the shops this Christmas? There is usually something that sets off a queuing frenzy.

It’s so much a part of our British way of life. Is it the latest phone, the latest

laptop computer or the latest video game? The list could be a long one, but one thing is for sure, check to see that batteries will be included!

What is happening on the Hill whilst all this Yuletide jollification is under way? Well, everything goes on very much as usual and every day is a fight for survival in the natural world. The cattle and sheep will still continue to graze without a thought for Christmas extras on the feed wagon. Cows will still need to be milked and animals fed, as farming carries on the way it always has.

For me it’s a time of reflection. Time to reflect upon the past, sometimes happy thoughts, others not quite so, but it is the past and cannot be re-visited.

Times change and so do people, we cannot stop the march of time and the way in which it will affect us all.

However we can be happy as we are now and draw comfort from those who are near and dear to us. The best time to be living is right now in today’s world.

Look to tomorrow and have a very Happy Christmas with your family around you. Remember the shortest day will be December 21st, so it’s all going to get better from there on in! Winter festivities and the all-important wassails are on the way to ensure another great apple crop for next year. I hope there is a summer in it somewhere as well!

My Christmas card for you all is a seasonal one. It was taken on the way up Milton Hill on a cold and frosty winter’s morning – I hope you like it!

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

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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YEO VALLEY

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The holly and the ivy – a Christmas guide

ON cookery programmes the posh chefs often create a deconstructed rhubarb crumble or shepherd’s pie so this month I have joined them in deconstructing the traditional Christmas Carol “The Holly and the Ivy”.

The holly and the ivy, when they are With MARY both full grown, PAYNE MBE Of all the trees that are in the wood the holly bears the crown.

Certainly, in winter the holly stands out from our other native species. Its shiny leaves reflecting light and its tolerance of growing in quite heavily shaded conditions does make it an ideal plant for many gardens to add winter interest. The variegated varieties offer even better value.

My choice for a white and green variegation would be Handsworth New Silver or Silver Queen both of which have purple stems setting off the foliage perfectly. For those of a golden persuasion my money is Golden King although this is not a variety of our native holly Ilex aquifolium. It is thought to be a hybrid between our native species and a Madeiran species I. peraldo.

The holly bears a blossom, as white as lily flower.

The vast majority of hollies are dioecious (that means that male and female flowers are on separate plants) with only a few having male and female flowers on the same plants, notably J.c.van Tol so I am often asked how to tell whether you have a male or a female plant. The only way is to examine the tiny white flowers which appear mainly in May/June, but odd ones can be found at almost any time.

The male flowers consist of four small petals with four anthers protruding. The female flowers are similar but lack the stamens, instead a round stigma sits in the centre. The problem lies in the fact that those who named holly varieties were not too hot on their sexes. So, we have Golden King which is female, whilst Golden Queen and Silver Queen are both male!

The holly bears a berry, as red as any blood.

Assuming you have both sexes, you stand a good chance of getting a good crop of berries which need not be red. Ilex aquifolium Amber has bronze berries while I.a. Bacciflava bears bright yellow berries. Golden King has reddish brown fruits. If a holly bush has never had berries it is probably fair to assume that it is a male.

The seasonal variations in the proliferation of berries is nothing to do with a hard winter ahead, but much more to do with good flower production and good weather for pollinating insects at the time of flowering. For good red fruits with a silver variegated leaf I recommend Handsworth New Silver mentioned earlier and for a gold-edged leaf with red berries try Madame Briot.

J. C. van Thol is hermaphrodite and produces a good crop of red fruits without a pollinator and is an excellent choice for a green-leafed form.

The holly bears a prickle, as sharp as any thorn.

There is nothing worse when gardening, than weeding near a holly and being attacked by the prickles of fallen leaves. To avoid this, I can recommend Golden King which, although the berries are not a brilliant red, has few prickles. J. C. van Thol also has nearly prickle-free foliage.

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

For those who really want to annoy the gardener, try the male Ilex aquifolium Ferox Argentea, also known as the Hedgehog Holly. The small leaves not only have prickles on the edges, but the surface is also covered.

The holly bears a bark…

The bark of mature trees is quite silvery and the white wood is hard and dense and was popular for wood engravings and veneering. It accepts dyes easily and was often dyed black and used as a substitute for ebony for teapot handles!

Ivy seems to be the underdog in the carol only being mentioned the once at the beginning. It is however, a most useful garden plant for shady areas. Our native ivy Hedera helix has two forms. The juvenile form climbs using aerial roots or sprawls across the ground making vast carpets in woodlands.

When it finds something to climb it starts upwards and eventually changes to its adult form with more rounded leaves and produces flowers in autumn which are a valuable source of nectar for insects, followed by black berries loved by birds. Countless named varieties with foliage variations have occurred.

Goldchild or Kalibri, gold and silver variegated respectively make excellent trailing plants for winter containers. They can also be used to clothe pillars to make a vertical statement or used to create ground cover in shaded areas. As ground cover they excel in shady places and can be used to create pools of “light” in a woodland garden.

Larger leaves are found on the varieties of Hedera colchica such as the yellow blotched Sulphur Heart or white variegated Dentata Variegata. Both make an excellent evergreen covering for unsightly walls or fences, or are equally at home as ground cover.

For those preparing for decorating churches, homes or halls using holly it is worth remembering to cut branches before the birds take all the berries. Stand the stems in water in a cool outhouse or shed, and the berries will stay on.

Ivy trails are also useful and will last well without water for a week or more in a cool place. Ivy berries are also ideal for decorating and can be lightly sprayed with silver or gold paint if required.

When you sing the carol this Christmas spare a thought for these two much underrated plants.

Happy Christmas to all.

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GARDENING

DECEMBER GARDEN TIPS

Move pots of tender plants inside or close to the house walls. The shelter of the house wall can make a big difference!

Dead-head pansies, violas and cyclamen to encourage more flowers. The autumn-sown sweet peas should have the tips pinched out after the second pair of true leaves open.

Dormant trees and shrubs can be moved now. Minimise root disturbance to increase chance of success and rapid reestablishment.

Plant roses, fruit trees and bushes. Transplant trees and shrubs that lose their leaves in winter now.

Don’t worry if there are bulb shoots already appearing outside in the garden, they are very tough and will generally survive very low temperatures. However, bulbs in thin sided plastic pots will need to be sheltered from wind driven hard frosts.

Feed the birds regularly so that when a cold snap comes they know where to get food easily.

Prune apples and pears to improve their shape, encourage younger growth, remove disease and control the amount of fruit bud they have. Don’t prune fan, espalier and cordon trained trees as these should be pruned in summer.

Water Cyclamen when leaves begin to wilt. Water from the bottom of the pot. Keep in a cool place with good light.

Remove yellowing leaves and fading flowers from the base of the corm with a twist and a sharp tug. This ensures that you leave no stub attached to the corm and avoids rots starting.

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

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MENDIP TIMES Timberwork Buildings

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rot and it resists weather that damages wooden fences, it has none of the drawbacks of wood but plenty of added benefits and it’s better value too! The materials and fitting are so good that Colourfence is guaranteed† for 25 years.

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NEWS

Award for church restoration project

A TEN-year project to restore All Saints Church in Nunney has been recognised in a national conservation competition.

The scheme to reinstate the church’s waggon roof – hidden since 1958 – and to install new dormer windows was highly commended in the annual architecture awards run by the National Churches Trust.

Architect Marcus Chantrey, from the Wedmore-based Benjamin + Beauchamp practice, entered the project for the King of Prussia Gold Medal for church repair and conservation architecture.

The winners were the team behind a project in Leeds to restore and reopen a redundant church for worship. The award ceremony was attended by the Duke of Gloucester, president of the trust.

Ken Lloyd, who led the Nunney project, said: “Although we wanted to win of course we had to agree that the project which came first deserved to win. Their project was five times bigger than ours and included every part of a Victorian church being renovated, included lots of masonry, stained glass windows and more or less the entire interior.”

(l:r) Prince Nicholas von Preussen, patron of the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Assocation; Ken Lloyd and David Scrutton, from All Saints Nunney; Marcus Chantrey, director of Benjamin + Beauchamp Architects and Mary Lynch-Staunton, also from All Saints

Ken added: “We met the Duke of Gloucester and the very jovial and entertaining Prince Nicholas of Prussia who has a ready wit and, as part of the judging committee, had obviously carefully studied all the entrants.”

Carving out a career in construction BATH College’s new Somer Construction Centre in Radstock has welcomed the West of England Mayor, Tim Bowles, who used the visit to launch a new report into the future of the industry.

The West of England Combined Authority says it will work with colleges, councils and businesses to help the construction sector fill the estimated 82,500 jobs that will be created by 2036.

The purpose-built facility at Bath College’s Somer Valley campus was built with £2.73 million funding from the West of England Combined Authority and Local Enterprise Partnership and opened in September.

The workshops are used by 500 students and apprentices studying bricklaying, construction, carpentry and stonemasonry, as well as plumbing, electrical installation and refrigeration.

The mayor said: “We were the first region to commission an in-depth look at skills needs of this sector and it shows that construction is a vital contributor to our economy. With 668 projects in the pipeline, valued in excess of £12.6bn, it’s clear that there are huge opportunities here.

“We will use the evidence this new report gives us to inform joint working with local colleges, councils and

College principal Laurel Penrose with apprentice Hartaj Huntan and West of England mayor Tim Bowles

businesses to ensure that as a region we continue to provide the right skills to sustain the industry.

“The fact is that there are 500 students here acquiring the necessary skills and is a great example of how we are addressing the challenge.”

Laurel Penrose, the principal of Bath College, said: “We are achieving excellent results here, not just in vocational skills, but our GSCE results

in English and Maths have been outstanding. We are one of the best performing colleges in the country.”

The research was put together by the Construction Industry Training Board which is developing a strategy and action plan to help take advantage of the opportunities in the industry. The combined authority covers Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Bristol.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 73

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When strawberries were king in Cheddar Valley

By Steve Egginton

THE strawberry season in the Cheddar Valley was compared to the Klondike by one local resident, calling strawberries “red gold”. But like the Klondike, the rush for strawberries was relatively short-lived.

Helen Batt, who lives in Cheddar with husband Philip, has charted its rise and fall in a new book Cheddar Valley Strawberries – The Golden Years – 1950 to 1990.

She says she decided to try and record details of the industry before it fades completely from memory.

Helen’s family moved from Draycott to Cheddar in 1954 and she attended Cheddar First School and then Sexeys Grammar School.

The late Tim Hill on his stall on Axbridge Road, Cheddar

She became a third-generation strawberry grower when her two sons were pre-school age and returned to her old job in the civil service in 1993,

when her family gave up growing.

In its heyday she says there were a sizeable number of full-time growers: “For about six weeks in May and June

David Sheldon and a trailer-load of pickers in Draycott

Pickers at Wavering Down Farm, Cross in 1985 (l to r) Julie Woodhead, Wendy Simpson, Helen Batt, Debbie Deimert, Marilyn Partridge, Eleanor Gardner and Kathleen Smith PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Helen and Phil in 1987, with sons Freddie and Harry, and strawberries bound for Marks and Spencer

Details: helenbatt@

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Helen Batt with Lion Rock as it looks today

HISTORY

Strawberry field below Lion Rock

the wholesale fruit dealers sent representatives and sometimes transport to take Cheddar strawberries to the cities and all the growers, big and small, could sell their produce that way.

“For those few weeks there was a real carnival atmosphere in the Valley, with dawn to dusk work, people meeting daily to pick, pack and transport the fruit, and the influx of strangers to haul it away.”

She says foreign imports were largely to blame for the decline, as well as new employment regulations and the demands of the supermarkets. Despite having a bumper crop in 1993, her family made a loss.

She writes: “However, all good things come to an end, and at least one grower has remarked that the end didn’t come soon enough for him. The work was always backbreaking, often

batt@hotmail.com

monotonous, and couldn’t be relied on to be rewarding.”

Among the contributors to the book are Brendon Cottrell and Reuben Smith.

There are scores of fascinating photographs – and some recipes for strawberries.

Helen will be signing books on Silver Street

Cheddar’s Festive Night, December 1st, in the main car cark and at Cheddar Fringe Festival’s Christmas Fair in the Catholic Church Hall on December 2nd.

The book costs £10 (£11 with postage) and should be available on Amazon shortly.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 75

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Eye specialist

MARIAN Donovan has been working in Wrington for almost 12 years now, seeing people on a regular basis for sight tests and contact lenses. She also does home visits to those who cannot get to the practice for whatever reason.

Home visits involve most of the tests done in practice, including measuring eye pressures and Marian can bring a selection of frames for people to choose from. Seeing people in their homes gives her an opportunity to assess the lighting conditions which are so often at the root of people’s visual problems.

Often a good, direct spotlight (with a halogen or LED bulb) can be as good as a new pair of glasses.

There is a collection box at the practice to recycle your old spectacles in support of a charity providing eye care in Africa – to date Marian has been on seven trips to Zambia, Ghana and Burkina Faso, teaching their ophthalmic nurses to test eyes.

She said: “It is very rewarding and humbling, highlighting how fortunate we are here in UK having our NHS, no matter how much we want to malign it!

“We MOT and service our cars every year – and yet still some people forget to MOT themselves and their families.”

She said the eyes can tell us a lot about our general health and, as in so many other cases, prevention is better than cure so why not call her and book an appointment? Free NHS sight tests are available to all children under 16 (18 if still in full time education) and to people over 60 as well as others with diabetes and on certain benefits.

Near dealer level diagnostics for all these makes ★ VOLKSWAGEN ★ AUDI ★ SEAT ★ SKODA ★ BMW ★ MINI ★ JAGUAR ★ LAND ROVER ★ RANGE ROVER ★ PEUGEOT ★ CITROEN ★ RENAULT NOW INCLUDING: ★ MERCEDES ★ VOLVO ★ PORSCHE ★ FORD MOT testing, Servicing and repairs to most makes Four wheel alignment, Tyres, balancing and TPMS valve service Exhaust, repair and replacement Air conditioning servicing, repairs, system clean and deodorise Loan cars and loan van, local pick up and run home service available Free reminder service via Email or text

Tel: 01934 862297 www.wringtonmotors.co.uk Email: wringtonmotors@hotmail.com PAGEP??

AGE •M 76ENDIP • MENDIP TIMES TIMES • DECEMBER • DECEMBER 2011 2017

Warm welcome from Wrington Motors

WRINGTON is one of the few local villages to still have a garage that not only sells petrol, diesel and LPG, but also has a fully equipped workshop.

Wrington Motors has been carrying out MOTs, servicing and repairing cars for over 25 years and has earned a reputation for good workmanship and courteous service. The business has continually upgraded its workshop equipment and tooling to keep abreast of the latest vehicle technology.

They have diagnostic equipment which has similar capabilities as main dealer systems, for Audi, BMW, Mini, VW, Seat, Skoda, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Range Rover, Mercedes, Porsche, Peugeot, Citroen, Renault and Volvo. This tool is enhanced with technical support from marque specific master technicians, which enables complex repairs to be carried out.

The workshop technicians have been with the business for many years, having started there as apprentices and they ensure a high level of experience, quality and continuity in the care of your vehicle, while the service reception staff are also motor technicians, who will discuss your problem, offer solutions and provide you with a free estimate for repairs.

They can also carry out small jobs such as the fitting of bulbs, or wiper blades while you wait. Classic cars are also serviced and repaired. The owner Melvyn Freeman has over 34 years’ experience and has worked mainly on British makes including Bentley, Jaguar, Rover, Triumph, Lotus and Aston Martin.

Wrington Motors runs a small fleet of loan cars, and a small van, to keep you mobile whilst your vehicle is repaired. They can also give you a lift back home or to work locally, or collect, repair and return your vehicle to your work or home.

Wrington’s Dickensian Fayre

8

December

THE Wrington Dickensian Fayre will be taking place on Friday December 8th with the evening starting at 6.30pm.

• Sight Tests • Glasses • Contact Lenses Home visits available by appointment

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FOCUS ON WRINGTON

Church celebration

A CELEBRATION concert was held at All Saints’ Church, Wrington to celebrate new facilities there – as well as the 70th birthday of church stalwart Philip Kinsman.

The concert by the Dante String Quartet was suggested by his wife, Judith. Philip has served All Saints’ tirelessly over many years as tower captain and instructor of young ringers and has always been ready with good and practical advice on the upkeep of the building and churchyard, Most recently was a crucial member of the team tasked with the renovations to the building. It was his suggestion that the ceiling bosses which grace the chancel ceiling should be restored and re-gilded.

Come and enjoy our famously delicious food this Winter WINTER MENU

High Street, Wrington, North Somerset, BS40 5QA Tel : 01934 862871 www.theploughatwrington.co.uk eat@theploughwrington.co.uk As an added incentive why not try one of our gourmet food offers: Mondays – Fish & Chips Night Wednesdays Evenings – 2 Rump Steaks, Chips, Salad and a Bottle of Wine for £30.95 Sundays – Gourmet Burger Night All Week – Creamed Butternut Squash Linguine & a glass of Prosecco for £13.50

STARTERS & LIGHT BITES ( v ) Soup of The Day (See Specials Boards) £4.95 Creamy Smoked Haddock with Spinach, local Cheddar & Poached Egg £6.50/£12.95 Thai Spiced Fish Dumplings, Pho Broth, Asian Salad, Chilli, Coriander & Mint £6.95 Game Terrine, Autumn Spiced Pickled Vegetables & a Thatcher’s Gold Chutney £6.95 ( v ) Goats Cheese Bon Bon, Pumpkin Jam, Romanesco Cauliflower, Hazelnuts & Beurre Noisette Butter £5.95 ( v ) Autumn Orzo Pasta Salad, Roasted Butternut Squash, Kale, Wild Mushrooms, Cranberries, Pumpkin Seeds & A Parmesan & Garlic Dressing £5.95 Pan-Fried Pigeon Breast, Blackberry Gel, Warm Salad of Beetroot, Mouli & Kohlrabi £7.95 FOR TWO TO SHARE ( v ) A Selection of Breads, Olives, Houmous & Homemade Pesto £7.95 ( v ) Baked Camembert Fondue, Studded with Garlic & Herbs with Pickles & Bread £13.25 Mixed Charcuterie Board with Crusty Bread, Pesto, Olives & Houmous £13.50 Fish Board, Thai Fish Patties, Smoked Salmon, Tempura Prawns, Citrus Mayo, Asian Dressing & Breads £14.50 MAINS Pork Tenderloin, Black Pudding, Apple & Stilton Bon Bon, Parsnip Puree, Sauté Greens & Jus

£16.95

Pan Fried Fillet of Hake, Spiced Cauliflower, Curried Cauliflower Puree, Baby potatoes & Bois Boudran Sauce Pan Roasted Lamb Rump, Chorizo, Apricot & Butterbean Ragu & A Tarragon Cream Mash Confit Duck Leg, Jerusalem Artichoke Puree, Sarladaises Potatoes, Tenderstem Broccoli & Truffle Oil Pork Sausages, with Rosemary & Apricot, Spring Onion Mash Potato & Onion Marmalade Gravy Homemade Beef Burger, with Coleslaw, Hand Cut Chips

• Add Cheddar, Blue Cheese, Bacon, Onion Marmalade 80p, or Pulled Pork £ 1 . 5 0

Venison Chilli, Chilli & Coriander, Fragrant Rice, with a Pickled Red Cabbage & Apple Salad Wild Mushroom Risotto, Mascarpone, Sage & Truffle Oil Creamed Butternut Squash Linguine, Pickled Butternut Squash, Roasted Garlic, Spinach & A sage, Walnut & Parmesan Crumb Char-grilled 10oz Rump Steak Served with Hand Cut Chips & Salad Char Grilled 8oz Sirloin Steak Served with Hand Cut Chips & Salad EXTRAS Hand Cut Chips £3.50 • Skinny Fries £3 Spicy House Chips £4 Café De Paris Bread £4.50 • Bread 75p Side Salad or Side Vegetables £2.75 Sauces: Pepper Sauce, Cafe De Paris Butter or Blue Cheese £2.50

£14.95 £17.50 £12.95

£11.50 £12.00 £16.95 £12.50 £12.50

£20.50 £22.50

We look forward to seeing you soon!

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 77

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FOCUS ON WRINGTON

Wrington remembers

Veterans led the parade

Buglers of Wrington Sam, Joan And staff Wish you a Merry Christmas And a Prosperous New Year

Laying wreaths

Standards were held high

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK FROM 5:30am un l 9pm Mon-Sat, 6pm on Sun

Telephone: 01934 862351

BUGLERS, HIGH STREET, WRINGTON BS40 5QA PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Some of the youngsters in the parade

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Nursery wins praise

STAFF at Barley Wood Nursery in Wrington are celebrating receiving a “good” rating from Ofsted a year after the nursery opened.

The report said that children develop high levels of selfesteem and that staff value children's thoughts and ideas and celebrate their achievements well, for example, with lowlevel interactive displays.

Laura Shields, nursery manager, said: “We’re all absolutely delighted with this first report from Ofsted. Our aim is to provide the highest standard of care to give the children who come here the very best start in life, so to have achieved a good Ofsted rating is brilliant.”

Details: www.barleywoodnursery.org or call 01934 861282

Eight years on and still going strong

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

ESTABLISHED by Karen Morgan and Vanessa Webb in 2009, Wrington Vale Lettings is an independent and dedicated letting agency based in the village of Wrington, North Somerset, offering a highly professional and customer-focused service should you be considering letting your property in the Wrington Vale or North Somerset area.

With many happy landlords and tenants alike, you can be assured of a highly personal service. Karen and Vanessa are happy to provide advice to landlords and can also offer a “one stop shop” for maintenance and upkeep of all properties.

This is what their landlords say: “As a reasonably new landlord I was impressed by the professional service afforded

by Wrington Vale Lettings. They guided me through the process leading up to my first tenants, and were very efficient in finding replacements when the first tenants moved on. They have always dealt promptly with any issues, and I am more than happy to recommend Wrington Vale Lettings to landlords and tenants alike.” (Tim Bastable) “I am very pleased with the service Wrington Vale Lettings have provided. When our first tenant left on short notice a new one was found within a week. WVL have carried out inspections thoroughly and on time, and arranged repairs as required. This is important as it gives a high degree of confidence our property is well looked after.” (Simon Boast).

Should you be letting your property now or in the future, call Karen or Vanessa for a chat.

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David Bush Joinery – investing in the future

DAVID Bush Joinery have had another extremely busy and successful year, with projects ranging from hand-made kitchens to traditional box sash windows, walk-in wardrobes and many sets of bi-folding doors, to name a few.

They have seen a rise in requests for bifolding doors and are very pleased with the excellent folding gear system that they have been able to source, which gives extremely smooth-running beautiful folding doors.

They continue to use the best quality timbers available, including prime grade oak and accoya, using local suppliers where they can, which enables them to produce beautiful pieces of joinery.

The image of the staircase shows the work they have undertaken in a property on the south coast, which includes the wall panelling, internal door and frame as well as a detailed cut-string staircase incorporating LED lighting, which is now becoming more popular.

In the New Year, to further improve the service they provide to their customers, they are investing in a purpose-built spray booth within their workshop, which will be installed by a company who specialise in spraying equipment.

The spray booth will be installed in January and this will enable them to spray finish their joinery in traditional paint colours as well as in clear or preservative stains and lacquers.

FOCUS ON WRINGTON

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

Our lawyers combine specialist legal knowledge with broad practical experience.

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

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

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 81

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Luck or nuts – can we avoid cancer?

“TWO thirds of cancer are caused by chance not lifestyle or genes, experts say”, so proclaimed The Sun, allowing readers to draw deep on a cigarette and ponder the chances of being run over by a bus.

The Mail explained that “New research shows that most cancers are caused by random mistakes in the genetic code when cells divide out of the blue”.

By Dr PHIL In fact, the research was a guestimate of how HAMMOND many cancers are written in your genes, how many are due to lifestyle and environment, and how many just spring out of uncontrolled random cell division.

From an analysis of the cancer registry data from 69 countries, chance mutations could account for just over a third of cancers worldwide.

Looking at data for 32 cancers in the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) database, this proportion leapt to two-thirds for no apparent reason.

Cancer is rarely simple and it may be that a combination of all three factors – environmental, hereditary and luck – account for many. We do know that random mutations occur all the time in our body’s cells and are usually spotted and corrected by our extraordinary immune system.

The mutations accelerate and the repairs weaken as we age and although chance can’t be controlled we can raise our odds of avoiding, delaying or repairing cancer by a good diet, sensible portions, regular exercise, moderate alcohol and sun, and no fags.

Future Fitbits may even do real-time mutation monitoring. “Today you had 29 potential cancer mutations and your body repaired 22. Sleep well.”

If a Fitbits are not your thing, try a handful of nuts a day. They’re linked to a 21% reduction in cardiovascular disease, a 15% reduced risk of any cancer (slightly higher for tree nuts (20%) than peanuts (7%)) and a 22% reduced risk of death from respiratory disease, diabetes and infections.

Nuts are full of healthy fats and nutrients and appear to be a great daily addition to your health regime, particularly if you have to climb a tree to get them. But they can kill you if you have an allergy, fall out of the tree or insist on throwing them in the air and catching them in your windpipe to impress your grandchildren.

Dr Phil’s best seller – ‘Staying Alive’ – is out now.

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Plop the Raindrop

THIS could well be my ten millionth Christmas, but I can’t be sure. There isn’t a calendar invented that shows how old I might be.

Anyway I’m probably much, much older than Christmas and arrived when all we water droplets came splashing on to earth from space ages before people even appeared. I suppose people might have invented Christmas.

But what invented me or people in the first place?

Would there be Christmas without people? It’s all very confusing. This is what grown-ups call A Big Question.

The world is full of them. How do flowers grow?

Who invented chocolate? What’s the point of wasps?

Fortunately, water droplets like me don’t have to bother with such things too much. We are indestructible and float by in our own little world.

But I can’t help wondering how everything happened. Did water just appear magically or did something or someone make it? If there is a giant tap somewhere out in space, how do we find it?

There might even be ice-cream fountains full of turtles and frogs. Father Christmas might live on the moon, rather than in Lapland.

Anything is possible. Christmas is a good time to think about things like this.

From what I’ve seen, Christmas means people are mostly nice to each other, which is good. And give each other presents, which is epic.

We don’t bother because water is all we are and all we need. If someone gave me a present I couldn’t carry it and might drop it on your head. I would give it to someone who needed it.

So I think that giving presents is nicer than getting them. What do you think?

One year I was stuck in the middle of a desert, where people were scared for their lives. A relative picked some oranges and gave them to a family. I was hiding under a leaf when they got them.

I will never forget the look of happiness on their faces. That was the loveliest present ever.

I’ve also seen how much people eat at Christmas – turkey, puddings, mince pies, jelly, chocolates, cakes, sandwiches, sausage rolls, quiche, sweets and all the rest of it.

Then I look down while floating high in the clouds and see lots of people who have nothing to eat. Is that fair? If I ruled the world everyone would be happy and have plenty of food. If I could, I would send rain clouds over all the deserts so that things would grow.

We water droplets have no choice about where we go or sharing what we have, whether we are in the depths of the ocean or in the middle of the sky.

You can be more like us. Just drift along happily or see if you can help, when things need doing.

What I wish this Christmas is that there should be peace and love – all of the time.

Not just at Christmas. Have a good time.

Mendip Grandad

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The Laurels offers Christmas cheer

THE Laurels Care Home have teamed up with the Community Christmas campaign to offer Christmas lunch to elderly people from the local community in Draycott and Cheddar who would otherwise be on their own on Christmas Day. Home manager, Wendy Perkins, said: “This will be a great opportunity to meet up with old friends and make new friends, creating bonds in the community that will last well beyond the single day.

“We are delighted to be involved with the scheme, I’d hate to think that someone living just a few doors away from us would be alone on Christmas Day.” Community Christmas are a charity who believe that no elderly person in the UK should be alone on Christmas Day. There are currently estimated to be between 250,000 and 500,000 older people who spend Christmas Day on their own.

The Community Christmas website provides a listing of community events, care homes and other venues who are taking part across the UK. Guests at The Laurels Care Home will enjoy a traditional home-cooked Christmas lunch in the company of their residents and family members. Anyone wishing to enjoy Christmas lunch with them, or if you know someone that would benefit from this, please get in touch. Places must be booked in advance by calling 01934 742649.

The Laurels Care Home is situated in the village of Draycott, two miles from Cheddar, at the foot of the Mendips Hills. The Laurels provides high quality residential care for up to 21 residents and has recently become part of the Country Court Care group.

The group owns 25 care homes which provide care for up to 1,085 elderly people across the UK. It is a familyowned and run business providing elderly care services within residential and nursing homes, together with associated day services. The business is renowned for being a best in class care provider with an outstanding reputation.

HEALTH & FAMILY

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 83

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Single and looking for a social life . . . then join SPA

An enthusias c and friendly group of single people who enjoy organised events For more informa on go to www.spasinglesocialgroup.co.uk email: spasocialgroup@gmail.com Or contact Jackie – 01458 840958

MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE THIS FESTIVE SEASON

‘BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER’ Just Somerset Introductions

A Personal, Caring and Confidential service for people of all ages from 20 years to 95 years Gold, Silver or Bronze Memberships. Choose your partner from photo-profiles in the comfort of your own home. No computerised matching or listings. One to one, Social events and more.

Call today on

07584 250285

Or visit our website www.justintroductionsgroup.co.uk

Now in Hampshire Wiltshire and Dorset too.

• Rented self contained, en suite accommodation for the active elderly • A home cooked 3 course mid-day meal • 24 hour emergency cover • Lift to first floor & sitting room • Independent living within private community • Close to the centre of a thriving, picturesque village • Spacious landscaped gardens • Friendly, home from home • Activities and outings • Guest accommodation • Views of the Mendip Hills • Welcome to people of any faith or none • Charges are fully inclusive

Seasons Greetings to all our residents and staff

For news on current vacancies please contact the Resident Warden 01934 843746 • warden.sewell@btconnect.com Sewell House, Belmont Road Winscombe BS25 1LQ www.sewellhouse.org.uk

Sewell House is managed by Sidcot Friends Housing Society Ltd – a not-for-profit organisation

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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Suffer no more from a pain in the heel!

A PAINFUL heel and sole of the foot is usually caused by plantar fasciopathy. The pain is experienced in the morning or when resting and sometimes it can be partly relieved by walking.

The fascia is a network of tissues that connect the heel and toes.

The fascia and the tendons of the feet can become strained by improper footware, uneven terrain, loose ankle ligaments or flat feet – and ten percent of the population experience this.

A new, proven effective treatment is Shockwave therapy, originally used to break up kidney stones and now a revolutionary solution to tendon problems. The therapy was pioneered in some hospital orthopaedic departments and is now easily accessible at a Somerset clinic, using a top of the range machine to emit the mechanical pulses that promote tendon healing.

For a free assessment at Somerset Shockwave call 01458 836152.

Details: www.somersetshockwave.co.uk

HEALTH & FAMILY

Suffering from a sports injury? . . . we can help you!

Approved

Do you suffer from; • Painful tendons and soft tissue problems?

• Foot and ankle pain?

• Shoulder or hip problems?

• Tennis elbow or golfers elbow?

Shockwave therapy is a revolutionary new approach to treating difficult and long-standing tendon related pain.

Contact us for your free assessment 01458 836152 - 9am-5pm appointments 01458 860392 – 24 hour hotline info@somersetshockwave.co.uk • somersetshockwave.co.uk Glastonbury Surgery Feversham Lane Glastonbury Somerset BA6 9LP

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 85

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Helping the homeless

LOCAL charity, Youth With A Future (YWAF) is organising its annual Christmas appeal to help support young people aged 16-25 living in the Mendip area who are homeless or threatened with homelessness.

Since the charity’s first appeal in 2014, people in the Mendip area have donated over £2,000. Since the charity was formed in 2002 it has donated almost £100,000 to support young people.

YWAF primarily works alongside Mendip YMCA, providing a moving-in grant of around £80-£100 for each young person moving into rooms in YMCA supported housing schemes or their own privately-rented/social housing flats.

It helps them to buy essentials such as cooking equipment, bedding and crockery. These items are their own to take with them when they move into more permanent accommodation later on.

So far this year the charity has donated just over £3,200 to young people, which includes move-in grants to 19 young people. In addition to the grants, at Christmas-time YWAF also ensures that each of the young people in the supported housing projects in Frome, Shepton Mallet and Street receives a Christmas gift card.

YWAF also gives grants to young people and youth groups across the Mendip area who need extra support with education, training and employment, developing talent and positive activities.

If you would like to support YWAF’s Christmas appeal and to find out more about its work, you can go to the charity’s website to make an online donation or send a cheque made payable to YWAF to c/o Parish Office, Peter Street Rooms, Shepton Mallet.

BA4 5BL. The charity will be holding a quiz night on Sunday January 28th from 7pm at the Horseshoe pub in Bowlish, Shepton Mallet.

Details: ywaf@ywaf.org.uk call 07504758263 or go to www.ywaf.org.uk or Facebook YWAF Somerset.

New support group planned

MACMILLAN, the cancer support charity, is looking to set up a volunteer fundraising group in the Chew Valley.

Nationally fundraising groups raise around £8m for Macmillan each year.

The two committees in the local area, North Somerset and BANES, raised £14,600 in 2016.

This could pay for a Macmillan nurse for just over three months, helping people living with cancer and their families receive essential medical, practical and emotional support.

Mike Curtis and Bob Powell have recently joined Macmillan as

Supporting the RNLI

A LIFEBOAT charity supper held at Butcombe village hall raised over £730 for the charity. There was a fabulous fish pie, cooked by Katie at Bumble Bee Foods, followed by puddings provided by ladies from the village.

The band Squeeze Fiddle Pluck took along two fine folk/shanty singers, Dick and Wayne, and together they had the audience singing along, often to some quite risqué tunes!

Order of the pink pinny

TINCKNELL Fuels supported Breast Cancer Awareness throughout October. Head office staff were “Wearing it Pink” at a coffee morning with delicious cakes made by staff and friends.

Over the month, staff have also been raising funds with quizzes, bingo, selling pink ribbons to raise awareness, with management making teas, wearing the fabulous pink pinny. The events raised £435.70.

Rob Ormond, managing director, said: “The company will be adding a substantial contribution to the funds raised by the staff to support ongoing research.”

volunteers. They both know the area well and are keen to be actively involved in the setting up of the new group.

Kaeti Morrison, fundraising manager for Bath, said: “I would like to pay tribute to all of our existing volunteer fundraisers. Their dedication and loyalty is fantastic and without them we wouldn’t have been able to do some of the things we have done.

“With more people being diagnosed with cancer, around 2,400 each year just in the North Somerset and BANES area, the need for our services is only going to increase.

“We are now in need of a new group of people who could fly the Macmillan flag in the Chew Valley area. We are looking for anyone who likes being a part of a community, meeting new people and who is able to volunteer some of their time to raise funds for Macmillan cancer services.”

Macmillan have funded a number of services in the area, with over 30 Macmillan professionals at Bath RUH and 21 at Weston General, including Macmillan nurses, Macmillan GPs, Macmillan CAB benefits advice services and the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service.

Details: Bob Powell 01761 241436 and Mike Curtis 01761 241639.

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

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Riding for charity

ENTRIES have opened for next year's Great Weston Ride, which raises funds for prostate cancer research, and after the success of this year’s event, the expectation is that 2018 will see a record number of entries for the ninth year running.

The spectacular city-to-coast route starts in Bristol and then takes riders through some stunning countryside and picturesque Somerset villages as it plots a course through the Mendips and across the Somerset Levels before finishing on the seafront in Weston-super-Mare.

The next event will be on Sunday, July 15th. Event organiser, Darren McKimm, said: “We're delighted to see the GWR going from strength to strength, it attracts a wide variety of people and we like to think that it offers something a little bit different compared with most events.”

Details: www.greatwestonride.com

Hospital unveils artwork

ST. MARGARET’S Hospice has installed a new artwork at its Yeovil in-patient unit in the form of a Celebration Tree. The Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, unveiled the tree, which is in the reception area for everyone to enjoy.

Chief executive, Ann Lee, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Annie Maw for coming along to support the hospice. St. Margaret’s will care for one in three people in Somerset during their lifetime.

“Our care is free, this does Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, Ann Lee, chief mean however we have to rely executive, and Jennifer Board, heavily on fundraising to ensure chairman, board of trustees, everyone who needs our care admiring the art installation receives it.”

The hospice says the tree is a way to celebrate life, love and friendship within the community while also raising vital funds by making a dedication and donation. It was designed by artist Claudia Ashley-Brown.

Details: 0845 345 9671 or visit www.st-margarets-hospice.org.uk

Charity day success

CHARITIES

Tessa Munt and Jo Frith

DESPITE a rather wet day, The Mid Somerset Oxfam Group’s fourth One World Fair at Wells Town Hall was a resounding success and raised £1,418.07 for Oxfam.

Guest of honour, paralympian Jo Frith, was very popular with lots of people wanting to hold the silver and gold medals she won at the Rio Olympics.

Around 30 different charities took part, some selling, some campaigning, others raising awareness of their particular cause. Music was by Simple Uke, a Glastonbury ukulele band, the Axbridge Choir and Noel Burville playing the dulcimer.

Simply Uke

Swallow, a charity for young people with learning disabilities, had the most colourful stall

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 87

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Countess at launch of new mental health campaign

The countess meeting mums and their twins in the busy Balsam Multiples group, before chatting to a social group exploring crafting with wool

THE Countess of Wessex was the guest of honour at the launch of a joint initiative by four charities involved in mental health care in Mendip, Bath and North East Somerset and South Somerset.

Well Wessex will see Heads Up, based in Wells, Creativity Works, in Radstock, the Balsam Centre, in Wincanton, and Chard Watch work together. Each charity has its own individual approach and all include use of peer support to assist in recovery and maintenance of good mental health and wellbeing. The charities have been developing a new and effective model to meet the many challenges and changes currently taking place in the field of mental health.

The launch took place at the Balsam Centre, a flourishing community hub and an independent charity dedicated to supporting and improving the health and wellbeing of the people of Wincanton and the surrounding areas such as Castle Cary. It includes an IT drop-in advice centre and a Men’s Shed.

For details, visit: www.balsamcentre.org.uk

Christmas presents

A CONSIGNMENT of Christmas shoeboxes for needy children in Romania, have been filled by members of District 20 Inner Wheel clubs, which includes clubs in Midsomer Norton, Chelwood Bridge, Mendip, Wrington Vale, Frome, Shepton Mallet, Sedgemoor and Wells.

They were collected at the clubs' district meeting, which was held at Oake Manor Golfclub, and packed into waiting cars to be delivered to SWEEPS, the organisation which delivers them.

International service organiser, Pam Brewster, who is a former president of Frome Inner Wheel Club, said: “We send boxes for ages nought to adult and hope that each box will have a variety of items suitable for the age group it has selected.

“We try to include a game or toy or both, something to keep the recipient warm e.g. scarf, hat gloves, a soft toy if it’s for a child, toiletries, and sweets.

“People are very generous with their contributions for the

PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Blagdon’s big breakfast

Naomi and John Lyons cooking breakfasts, egged on by a prospective guest, a hungry Alan Boyle

THE smell of bacon and sausages wafting out from Blagdon Village Club drew in the crowds, as the annual big breakfast was held by Blagdon's Weston Hospicecare support group.

After serving a variety of breakfasts to their many visitors, the organisers were delighted to announce that £730 had been raised for the charity, well up on last year's figure of £520.

Jan Andres and Win Gold waiting to serve cups of tea, with Marie and Abigail preparing plates of breakfast.

boxes and the boxes are always bulging with goodies! District 20 has yet again been brilliant. Well done everyone.”

SWEEPS, South West England European Prayer and Support group, take the boxes to Romania by lorry, where John Scott and his team personally deliver them to some of the country’s poorest areas.

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Kingfisher raises over £1,000 for charity

THE real stars of the day at Kingfisher’s coffee morning at East Brent on November 4th were the incredible selection of home-made cakes that sold like – hot cakes.

From Victoria sponge to coffee and walnut to chocolate fudge and beyond, the choice was bewildering; but almost everyone managed to overcome their bewilderment and dig deep into their pockets to raise money for Macmillan Nurses and Children’s Hospice South West.

Kingfisher MD Angie Hicks, herself a keen baker, was over the moon with the result: “Suppliers were so generous with their raffle prizes and donations that we were off to a flying start. Friends and customers were equally generous and we are thrilled to be able to give two such worthwhile charities over £500 each.”

Visitors ranged from babes in arms to the over 90s and, as might be expected at Kingfisher, there was a real family feel about the occasion, with a colouring competition and a lucky dip providing plenty of fun and entertainment for children.

Director, Michelle McQuarrie, said: “Everyone at Kingfisher put so much into the day and the final outcome has given us a real lift.”

Vi’s charity mission

WEST Mendip Walkers’ Vi Howley has raised a total of £9,900 for Macmillan Cancer and the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance by walking the South West Coastal Path.

Vi embarked upon her mission to raise funds for the two charities last year walking from Minehead to Newquay over a two-week period. In April/May this year she walked from Newquay to Lizard Point, and was joined by over 70 companions, including a number from West Mendip Walkers, who kept her company over the twoweek period.

Vi’s motivation stems from her own experience with cancer and the care she received while receiving treatment and during her recovery.

Not content with her efforts to date, Vi intends to walk the third section of the South West Coastal

CHARITIES

Couple’s golden gifts

TONY and Linda Quinn decided to ask for donations rather than gifts to celebrate their golden wedding and were able to fund 39 School in a Bag rucksacks for the Piers Simon Appeal (PSA) charity.

They are pictured at the charity’s depot near Yeovil with organiser, Lucas Simon.

His brother, Piers, was 33 when he died in the Indian Ocean Tsunami on the island of Koh Phi Phi in Thailand on December 26th 2004.

The bags will be going to the Philippines soon.

The couple, who live in Paulton, said: “We did not wish to receive gifts on our golden wedding day so we asked for donations for school in the bag charity that we are very fond of and support personally as well as through Water Survival Box.” The bags contain items for schoolchildren in disaster areas where they have lost everything including their school items, and so contain things like notebooks, pencils, maths sets as well as a drink bottle and food container.

Tony is a former president and international district governor with Chelwood Bridge Rotary Club, while Linda is a former president and district chair with Chelwood Bridge Inner Wheel Club.

Path from The Lizard to Torcross, a distance of 166 miles, from April 23rd to May 5th next year.

The shortest day will be ten miles and the longest 14.9miles. Some days are suitable for half-day participation and Vi would like to encourage people to join her for whole days, or maybe more. The daily cost is £25 (or people could get sponsorship) and all monies raised will go to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Details: 07711 662 993 at vihowley@me.com or logon to JustGiving.Com and enter “Come Walk with Me” and you will be able to join Team Vi.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 89

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Blagdon Christmas fair

Rotary fights polio

The children after they had planted their bulbs, with chair of school governors, Stuart Ball (right)

Christine O'Connor and Sheila Thoy on the Christmas lucky dip stall

BLAGDON Weston Hospice support group raised £1,150 at their Christmas fair. They are now looking forward to their next event, their annual Soup and Pud lunch, which will be held in the village club on Saturday January 30th.

SEVERAL schools in the Chew Valley have been given purple crocus bulbs to plant as part of Rotary's Purple for Polio campaign. Purple is the colour that children have their fingers painted after they have been given the polio vaccine.

Ken Biggs of the Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge has been going round schools and giving them crocus bulbs to plant and also telling pupils about how Rotary are trying to eradicate polio by immunising children around the world.

Cameley Primary School was one of the school's chosen to plant these bulbs and the children had a fun afternoon with school governor, Stuart Ball.

The amount of polio-endemic countries has dropped from 125 to just three, with over 2.5 billion children receiving vaccinations thanks to the help of Rotary. Since 2012 Rotary Crocuses have raised around £1.2million and have been distributed in 15 countries.

Whist aids charities

Caroline Way, Angela Smythe and Julie Roxanne on the cakes and preserves stall

Pictured (l tor) Graham Howell Alan Elkington Dave Watts Chris Gallegos and Lyn Addicott

Mary Taviner with James and Grace, who were delighted with their knitted penguins, made by Mary and a group of knitters in Blagdon

PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

DURING the last year Dave Watts of Ston Easton and friends raised a staggering £2,000 in one evening running a whist drive at Killen’s Mendip Auction Rooms.

A few more whist drives were held at his home and the events amassed £2,500. It was decided to split this between two charities which had supported Dave, his friends and their families in recent years, the Dorothy House hospice and Prostate Cancer UK. A social evening was held at Killen’s Mendip Auction Rooms to present cheques to representatives of the charities who spoke, explaining their work and progress in treatments.

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CHARITIES

Crafts and coffee for Macmillan

Handbags sale

Nine-year-old Felicity Hurst dives into the tombola watched by John Bridges and Beth Davies

THE latest sale of good-condition and quality handbags run by Rotary, Nailsea and Backwell raised £276.80 for local good causes in just four hours on a chilly morning.

CAKES, coffee and gifts were the order of the day when the Midsomer Norton branch of Macmillan Cancer Support held its last event of the year – a craft fair and coffee morning at St John’s Church Hall.

The morning raised £850 and the branch would like to thank everyone who supported the event.

Cheddar friends group

A GROUP of local Cheddar residents have formed a friends group to support Weston Hospicecare and are busy planning their first fundraising event.

Community fundraiser for Weston Hospicecare, Sue Harding, said: “We are very grateful to the residents of Cheddar and the surrounding area for their continued support.”

It costs £4million to keep the hospice running each year and only 20% of the running costs are met by the NHS. The rest is raised through the generosity of the local community.

Details: Sue Harding 01934 423 926 email Sue.Harding@westonhospicecare.org.uk www.westonhospicecare.org.uk

Gardens support hospice

FOLLOWING a successful open gardens campaign this summer, St. Margaret’s Hospice is now seeking keen gardeners to open their gardens and allotments in aid of the hospice during 2018.

The season runs from May to September, however some of gardens are open year-round. The hospice itself will be taking part and opening its own beautiful gardens in Yeovil for the local community to visit.

All funds raised through the scheme will go towards helping patients and their families facing a life-limiting illness across Somerset.

Details: Susan Bickle 01935 709182 or 07736886145 susan.bickle@st-margarets-hospice.org.uk

Band plays for charity

A LOCAL band, Deep River Blue, based in the Rickford, Sandford and Langford areas has re-formed to play charity gigs. They recently played at Ubley village hall, raising over £1,500 for Cancer Research UK. Band member, Mike McLennan, said: “We all know someone who has been affected by this terrible disease.

This particular event was organised by Tracey Stock, our lead singer.”

The band members are Tracey, David Dawson, lead singer and rhythm guitar, David Jenkins, lead guitar, Richard Ireland, bass guitar, Garry Sharpe, drums, and Mike, keyboards.

Mike said: “We really are a band brought out of retirement. Before the Ubley performance we last played at Portland for the Paralympic Sailing events in 2012.

The reason that we are back together is that Tracey was keen to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and we thought this would be a fun way to do it.

“In the end we raised just over £1,500 so we were very pleased that we got together again. We were joined on the night by the gospel choir 'Joyful Spirit' of which Tracey is a member.”

Details: cherrydes1gn@me.com

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 91

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Inspired Bespoke Design

See our selection of beautiful Christmas goodies

01934 710687 www.victoriaandscarlet.co.uk sales.bosinteriors@gmail.com

Call in for mulled cider during Wedmore by Lamplight Open: Monday-Saturday 8.30am-5.00pm

01934 713289 Unit 2 The Borough Mews, The Borough Yard, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB

All aspects of tree work undertaken Tel: 07738 678874 Email: chris@tree-surgery-somerset.com

www.pumpkinwedmore.co.uk andrea@pumpkinwedmore.co.uk 1 The Borough Mall, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB

First Christmas in Wedmore

THEY are very much looking forward to their first Wedmore by Lamplight at Victoria and Scarlet in the Borough Yard after a “marvellous first few months here in the beautiful village of Wedmore”.

They will be offering free festive punch and nibbles during the evening and will have a wonderful selection of gift and home wares available – perfect for gifts and stocking fillers.

They can make cushions and flowers to order in your choice of colours and will have festival floral arrangements available too.

They are running an early bird promotion of 10% off any order placed in January for curtains and blinds – so you can book them in now to measure for curtains and blinds in the New Year and make the most of festive savings into 2018.

Mention the Mendip Times to receive the 10% off in January.

Wedmore By Lamplight

13

December

Wednesday December 13th with the evening running from 5.30–9pm.

Taking tree surgery seriously

HOOD’S Tree Services aim to provide a high quality service adhering to industry codes of practice. This year they are especially proud to have become members of the Devon & Somerset Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme.

All tree work is carried out safely and efficiently with all team members holding NPTC certification and full public liability insurance. They work locally for domestic and commercial clients; recent work included the dismantling of trees required for the expansion of Wedmore School.

Aiming for zero

PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

GREEN Wedmore has ambitious plans to take the village to zero carbon and is hosting a workshop by Paul Allen from the Centre for Alternative Technology and leader of the Zero Carbon Britain project.

It will be held in St. Mary’s Church on Saturday January 27th, at 3pm. Later, at 6.30pm, he will give a talk on how we can achieve a zero carbon Britain.

Through the work of Green Wedmore the village is already well on the way to reducing its carbon footprint, with its car charging points, community solar paddocks, freecycle days, repair cafés, community woodland and current campaign for solar panels on the village hall.

It says the next step is to fully map the village and provide a plan for reducing their carbon footprint to neutral by a set date. The events are open to all.

Paul Allen said: “The implementation of the Paris Agreement is a milestone without precedent in the story of human beings, energy and happiness. The work now begins to make it happen. In the process, we may soon discover this new chapter offers a sense of global, national and local collective purpose that many have been craving for a very long time.”

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Christmas at Lime

FOCUS ON WEDMORE

Pale Blue

Women’s clothing and other lovely things

A special gift for the lady in your life or a treat to yourself! Lime has some beautiful designs in smart/casual wear to take you over the festive period, along with lovely accessories of jewellery, scarves, belts, bags and cosy hats and mittens!

15, The Borough Mall, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB

01934 710479

1 The Borough, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB Email: paleblueclothingltd@yahoo.co.uk

Tel: 01934 713773

Find us on Facebook and Trip Advisor

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 93

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The Artist’s Gallery www.tag.uk.net

4 Borough Mews The Borough Yard Wedmore Somerset BS28 4EB

Opening times: Wednesday 2pm–5pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am–5pm

info@tag.uk.net

01934 713295

All types of poultry, meats and game. For those lazy Summer days, BBQ packs and our award winning sausages Produced on our own farm or supplied locally

Just pop in or we can take your orders over the telephone, call us at the Shop on 01934 712384

Exclusive Children’s Day Nursery

Baby room - Nursery - Pre-school - Forest School

Wells Road Latcham Wedmore BS28 4SA

01934 713527

www.littleowlschildcare.com

Yoga • French • Music & Dance Cookery • Gardening Ofsted - Staff support children's emotional well-being extremely well and have a very good knowledge of their individual needs, positively supporting children's learning with effective modelling and questioning

PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

FOCUS ON WEDMORE

Christmas in Wedmore

THIS is a very special time of year, as the nights draw ever darker, twinkling lights trail from windows and trees, with the cold wind biting at your extremities as you wrap yourself up cosy and tight, you find yourself making a sigh of relief as you enter a warm heartfelt home or a Christmas shopping wonderland.

At Erica Sharpe Fine Jewellery there is no exception. A firm favourite with both Erica and her staff, it’s a time to go crazy with lights, glitter and all things sparkly!

This magical time compliments Erica’s jewellery significantly, in the way that the jewellery pieces themselves give great warmth, a special and uplifting feeling by both the giver and receiver, and huge amounts of sparkle and shine from the beautiful jewels and Fairtrade precious metals they are made from.

Erica’s midnight blue and white Christmas theme enticingly displays her new hand-crafted beautiful pieces. There is something for everyone, you can even add to your own wish-list whilst shopping for family and friends!

There are pieces that range from simple yet elegant modern styles, to ancient gold granulation pieces. Brightly coloured beaded necklaces and bracelets, a large selection of chains and beautifully crafted bangles, cufflinks, rings, earrings and pendants.

Opening times throughout December are Tuesdays – Fridays 10-5pm and Saturdays 10-12.30pm. Erica is inviting visitors for mulled wine, mince pies and late night shopping during Wedmore

by Lamplight on Wednesday December 13th.

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Back to business after repairs to fire damage

THERE’S great news for everyone in the Congresbury area as Oldfields Fish & Chips, situated in Congresbury’s precinct, has reopened after it was recently severely damaged by fire.

The fire, which was believed to have been caused by an electrical fault, spread through the shop and into the flat above and it took several hours for firefighters to bring the blaze under control.

It took just over six weeks to complete the repairs and renovations and Tracy Payne, who owns and runs Oldfields said: “We’re very happy to back open again with our normal hours from Monday to Saturday; however, for the foreseeable future we will be closed all day Sundays.”

Sadly, this means the Sunday Carvery will currently no longer be available.

Award winners – now taking orders for Christmas

THE award-winning Cottage Loaf bakery and sandwich Bar in Brinsea Precinct is a great place to drop-in and have a break for coffee, tea or even a cold drink if you prefer.

You can meet up with friends and family in the large seating area and you certainly don’t need any excuse to sample their made-to-order sandwiches with a variety of fillings, breads, cakes and other “goodies”.

Featuring a fantastic breakfast menu from egg or beans on toast to a full English breakfast with sausage, bacon, egg and toast and a veritable array of coffees, teas and milkshakes what better place be to kick start your day?

And don’t forget to pick up your Christmas order form, available from the beginning of the month, so that you don’t miss out on all your favourites over the festive period.

FOCUS ON CONGRESBURY

ttage Loaf CoBakery, Café & Sandwich Bar

Craftsman baked bread and Confectionery from the Best West Country Master Baker All-Day Breakfasts, Hot and Cold Filled Sandwiches and Rolls and a Variety of Coffees, Teas and Milkshakes Open 7am–5pm Monday–Friday • 7am–1pm Saturday

2 The Precinct, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, Bristol BS49 5JG

01934 876969

Keith and Sally Westlake

HODDERS

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HIGH CLASS FAMILY BUTCHERS

Opening Times – Mon-Sat 11.30am – 10pm, Sunday – Closed Family butcher Local meat and poultry Booking now for Christmas The Precinct, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, BS49 5JG 01934 838844

Unit 6, The Precinct, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, North Somerset BS49 5JG Telephone: 01934 834342

Church House Designs

E-Mail: oldfields@JustCongresbury.com

Get Christmas all wrapped up at Church House Designs LOOKING for a unique gift for that special person?

Church House Designs have a wonderful selection of eye-catching silk scarves, woollen wraps and beautiful silver jewellery to choose from.

Or if you’re looking to enhance your home with something unique, then you’ll be delighted by the selection of ceramics, glassware and ironwork.

With the gallery now in its 31st year, proprietor Lorraine Coles’ wealth of knowledge and experience ensures that customers will be buying pieces of the highest quality at very competitive prices. A visit to the gallery is always a pleasure and inspiration. And gift wrapping comes as standard.

December opening times are Wednesday to Friday, 10am-5pm and Saturday, 10am-1pm. They will be open every day from December 18th-23rd.

Lorraine wishes all her customers a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Wednesday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday 10am-2pm (or by appointment) Broad Street, Congresbury, Bristol BS49 5DG Telephone 01934 833660 www.churchhousedesigns.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 95

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CAVING

(Photograph by L. Devenish)

The bone caves of Wookey Hole

AS visitors walk up the wooded valley to Wookey Hole Cave, they cannot fail to be impressed by the wide portal which is where the River Axe first sees daylight. The tourist entrance is higher up, on the left, and recently, a small hole above this has been opened to form the start point for the new attraction, With PHILIP Wild Wookey.

HENDY There are several other cracks and fissures in the cliff, two of which have been explored. Fissure Cave is a tight narrow rift some 25 metres long, dug open by Herbert Balch and the Mendip Nature Research Committee in 1907.

Nearby is Troup’s Rift, named after Robert Troup, a member of the same organisation, when he dug there briefly in 1908. It is 18 metres long, and leads towards Charon’s Chamber on the far side of the river in the Witch’s Kitchen in the main cave.

There are three other small but significant caves on the east side of the valley, notable for the wealth of prehistoric material which was found in them. Visitors leaving Wookey Hole will be able to see Hyaena Den, just above the bank on the far side of the canal which once led cave water to the paper mill.

The cave was discovered in 1852, when the canal was being dug, and soon after was investigated by the pioneer archaeologist William Boyd Dawkins. It was subsequently dug by Balch at the end of the 19th century, and later by the University of Bristol Speleological Society in the late 1960s.

The cave, 46 metres long, consists of a roomy chamber with short extensions leading to a second entrance in the roof.

When found, the cave was completely Balch supervising Richard Kenney excavating a filled with mammoth tusk in Badger Hole debris, which has since been dug out and sifted with varying degrees of expertise. The archaeologists revealed that the cave had been alternately occupied in the Early Upper Palaeolithic period by Man and by hyaenas.

As well as the bones of hyaena, wolf, bear and lion, there were the remains of prey animals – mammoth, rhinoceros, horse, bison, elk and deer including reindeer. The larger animals may have been driven over the cliff, as the larger bones were often broken as in a fall. No human bones were found, but the ash remains from hearths were uncovered, together with fragments of burnt bone.

A little further down the valley, and slightly higher up, is Rhinoceros Hole, also named after the most significant animal found there. A phreatic tunnel 11 metres long rises to the surface, blocked by tree roots and earth. Balch dug there around 1900, finding Late Pleistocene bones and teeth, most notably of the woolly rhinoceros.

A later dig in the 1970s by the UBSS uncovered Mousterian

Finds displayed in Wookey Hole Museum

(Middle Palaeolithic) flint tools in the basal layers, and a short passage leading towards the Hyaena Den. Higher up the side of the valley, in fact just over the boundary wall between it and the field above, is another cave named after an animal – Badger Hole. Originally this was a wide shelter, with a surface layer of Romano-British to modern debris. One Roman coin and some fragmentary pottery was found, together with the bones of domestic animals such as sheep and poultry, and also oyster shells.

It was dug, again by Balch, between 1938 and 1954. There was a barren stratum under the surface layer, possibly the result of the occupants of the Roman-age farmhouse in the field above, clearing the shelter out for use as a stable or even dwelling. The next level contained Proto-Solutean material more than 17,000 years old. Bones of Man were rare, although part of a baby’s jawbone was found, together with flint knives and lance heads.

There was, however, a rich assemblage of animal bone – bear, mammoth, hyaena, woolly rhinoceros, pony and horse. The latter had cut marks made by flint knives. Deer, reindeer, boar, bison, polecat and cave pika were also present, together with modern species. The fill had been disturbed to a depth of a metre by burrowing badgers, the skulls and bones of which were abundant.

Underneath this was a barren layer of river sand, deposited when the cave may have been an early higher outlet for the water of the Priddy catchment.

Together with the mainly Iron Age and Romano-British finds from Wookey Hole Cave, these sites give us a detailed picture of life in the valley in Stone Age times and before. There is one other cave near the valley which is worth a mention, although it has not yielded any archaeological material.

Lying on the hillside above the valley is Hallowe’en Rift, spotted by Trevor Hughes of the Bristol Exploration Club in 1982.

He soon gathered a team of diggers and currently the cave is 90 metres long – and getting longer, as digging continues on a regular basis. Spurred on by a tantalising draught, a series of low bedding planes have been dug out. Some of the stalagmite formations are very old.

It is hoped that the dig will eventually break through somewhere inside Wookey Hole Cave, but it seems that this is an early, highlevel outlet for the water from the Priddy swallets. If so, the conduits are very juvenile, but there is always the hope of entering larger passages further on.

Clearly, there is much more to Wookey Hole than the show cave itself. None of the other sites are easily accessible, but the caves museum gives an excellent insight into Wookey’s past history.

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.

PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

(Photograph by Phil Hendy)

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MOTORING

Award for trucker

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

Bailey approved body shop and workshop

Mark Lowe, who drives for Peter Green Chilled

MENDIP trucker Mark Lowe has been crowned the UK’s best heavy goods vehicle driver in the inaugural TomTom Telematics Driver of the Year Awards.

Mark, 48, drives for Evercreech firm Peter Green Chilled. TomTom Telematics took account of both driving performance and overall mileage throughout the competition. Driving behaviour scores were calculated by OptiDrive 360, a key component of the TomTom WEBFLEET fleet management solution.

Mark, who lives in Bruton, has been working for Peter Green Chilled for five-and-a-half years and has 19 years of HGV driving experience. Peter Green Chilled is an international chilled and frozen retail warehousing and transport company, operating a fleet of 50 HGVs. The company runs an incentivised scheme to help improve driver behaviour, underpinned by the telematics, which has already produced benefits in terms of reduced fuel costs.

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Moose gather in Highbridge

MEMBERS from all four lodges and circles in District 3 (Burnham, Weston, Bristol and Swindon) of Moose International attended their fourth conference at the Oaktree Arena near Highbridge.

The format this time differed from previous conferences as it

was a joint meeting of the brothers and ladies instead of having two separate meetings. The principal guest on the day was Joyce Easen, Ladies Circle national lady president.

Committee member and Burnham lodge secretary Terry Cornelius said: “All in all this was a most successful day.”

Asian dancers have rotarians in a spin

Eternal Taal, from Solihull, get the party going. They are a female-only group

ROTARY club members and their guests took to the dance floor during lunch at a day-long conference in Wells.

The impromptu session was led by Bhangra dancers and drummers Eternal Taal, who were giving a demonstration but then encouraged people to join in, including the Mayor of Wells, John North.

Clubs from across Somerset and further

afield had sent delegates to the District 1200 annual gathering – titled Act Locally, Impact Globally – at Wells Cathedral School.

Amongst the speakers was Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis, Atlantic rower and motivational speaker Sally Kettle and Ravinder Singh, founder of the Khalsa Aid international relief charity.

Mendip Times contributor Dr Phil

Eternal Taal were joined by Ravi Singh, founder of Khalsa Aid

Hammond gave the keynote speech.

Many local organisations supported by Rotary were also present. ● Ravi and a team from the Khalsa Aid were amongst the volunteers who helped victims of the Somerset floods and he has been a regular visitor to Somerset since.

For details of their work, visit: www.khalsaaid.org

District governor Stewart Cursley, whose Wells Club hosted the 46th annual conference, with speaker Sally Kettle (left), and Stewart’s wife June

To find out more about Eternal Taal, visit: www.eternaltaal.com

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

(Photograph courtesy of Mike Lang)

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How much? Valuation day raises a few smiles DOZENS of people brought along loved – and some not-soloved – items of memorabilia to a valuation day which was raising funds for Radstock Musuem.

Supported by Killens, the Trash or Treasure event at the Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton certainly delighted some of the visitors.

People paid £1 per item for a team of experts to assess their worth and examined everything from stamp collections to ceramics and from coins to militaria.

The day was organised by the museum’s Bygone Days Team and Killens have offered to donate the seller’s commission to the museum from any of the items they are subsequently asked to sell at the Mendip Auction Rooms.

Janet Fear (right), of Paulton, took along a 1960 painting by Canadian artist J F Lansdowne and was told it had an estimate of £600-£800. Janet, who plans to sell the work – a wedding present – is pictured with her daughter, Mary Manley

Surfing the local art scene

COMMUNITY

Colin and Christine Button brought along a tea set based on the 1950s American television series Wagon Train. The set was made by the Washington Pottery of Stoke-on-Trent and was valued at £400.

Militaria expert Paul Atkins examines a bayonet

ALL Saint’s Church in Oakhill was the setting for an arts and crafts weekend aimed at bringing the community together.

Professionals rubbed shoulders with hobbyists at the Light Creation weekend, organised by the Rev. Capt. Richard Priestley, priest-in-charge of Ashwick and Oakhill and co-ordinated by local artist Helen Reader.

More than a dozen local artists, ranging from woodturner Chris Clark to feltmaker Deborah Cowell took part.

Richard said: “The exhibition was about bringing the community together and encouraging people to take part, some showing their work for the very first time.”

Surfs up! Rev. Priestley tries out one of Chris Clark’a giant skateboards as other artist and volunteers look on

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 99

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Walking for a good cause

Association gets a boost

Rotary president Chris Bales presenting a cheque to Alchemy

THE highly successful Nailsea Charity Walks and Runs raised almost £22,000 this year for the benefit of local charities, clubs and community organisations.

In October, cheques were presented to two such organisations, both of whom had also banked sponsorship money they had raised themselves from the event.

Rotary’s, Nailsea and Backwell president, Chris Bales, presented £1,195 to Alchemy Trampoline & DMC club.

Alchemy’s Jon Webb said: “Nailsea Charity Walks is a great way for our members and supporters of all ages to get together, have fun and raise funds for us. This year we will use the funds towards a new Olympic standard trampoline so all our teams can benefit from the higher standard equipment.”

Nailsea Air Cadets were presented with a cheque for £621. The cadets have been involved with the walks for many years, using the event to raise money for equipment.

Nailsea Charity Walks and Runs 2018 will take place on Sunday June 10th. Rotarian Roger Smith, chair of the organising committee, said: “There are three routes that you can walk or run; 5k, 10k and 20k, so there is something for everyone.”

Rotarian Graham Hunt said: “In 2017 the all new routes were widely praised. In response to popular demand, the 2018 routes are likely to be the same or similar. So why not come along, join in, enjoy the local countryside and have fun with family, friends and other participants whilst raising essential funds for your favourite local charity or good cause?”

Rotarian Pete Hoare presenting a cheque to Nailsea Air Cadets

Details: www.nailsearotary.org or e-mail grahamjeanhunt@tiscali.co.uk

PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Karen Walker, Party in the Park (left), and Claire Wynn Hughes, Quartet (centre) check out the new notice board outside St John’s Community Room, with association members Richard and Mandy Clarke (right).

PEASEDOWN St John Residents’ Association is celebrating after being awarded two grants, totalling more than £1,200.

The association, which runs drop-in support sessions for those looking for work and people who need to access their universal credit application online, has been organising community events for four years.

Secretary Mandy Clarke said: “A group of us got together in 2013 because we wanted to make a difference in our community. Thanks to the support of local businesses, B&NES council and a number of charitable groups we’ve raised over £4,000 – all of which has been spent on providing activities for people who wouldn’t have had such opportunities otherwise.”

As well as a Wednesday drop-in advice service, the group runs a monthly big breakfast, seasonal events at Easter and Christmas, and co-ordinates initiatives with Curo, Party in the Park and the village’s B&NES councillors, Karen Walker and Sarah Bevan.

Mandy added: “This year we wanted to especially focus on raising awareness of our services, and helping residents to communicate with others using the internet.”

The residents association funding appeal led to a £800 grant from Quartet and a £420 grant from the Party in the Park Grant Fund. Between both organisations they are funding new notice boards and wifi for two years at St John’s Community Room – where the association hold their meetings.

Details: psjresidentassoc@yahoo.co.uk

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Charter celebrations at the MN&R Inner Wheel

Lynn Evans (centre) is pictured with IW president Jacky Emm and Sally Blanning who has made hundreds of teddies for the IW International School in a Bag project

MEMBERS and friends of Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel gathered at the Swan Hotel in Wells to celebrate the club’s 60th anniversary.

District chairman Lynne Evans MBE, her husband Keith and Rotary Club of Midsomer Norton president Ian Huxham and his wife Debbie were guests of IW president Jacky Emm.

G i v i ng t h e i r t i m e f o r t he S t r a w be r r y L i n e CRAFTSMEN have been donating their time and skills to help volunteers improve a section of the Strawberry Line path near Wells and to restore a little bit of farming history.

Stan Cook, a retired farmer who lives in Wells, can be found most days clearing scrub and undergrowth on the path east of the city towards Dulcote. Friends and people living nearby or who have stopped for a chat, have also been helping out, complementing the work being carried out Gary at work on the stone seat

COMMUNITY

IW president Jacky Emm (left) with Ian Huxham and Lynne Evans at the charter night in Wells

Lynne had also been with members at their monthly meeting earlier in the same week when she outlined her plans for the year and gave an interesting resume of her life and her sport of archery which culminated in her competing at the Munich Olympics and officially attending others in Atlanta, Sydney, Athens and Beijing before becoming part of the bid team for the London 2012 Olympics.

Ian rebuilding the pound; the path is popular with walkers and cyclists

by the Strawberry Line East group of volunteers. They received a £12,000 award from the Tesco Bags of Help scheme to improve the path.

Stonemason Ian Ward has been working for free to rebuild a former livestock pound next to the former railway. The East Somerset Railway Company built the pound – where stray animals were kept – to replace an older version at the same time as the railway embankment was built in 1862.

Local businesses have also started to support the work. Wells Reclamation donated stone for a bench; Shepton Malletbased builder Gary Stephens has been working to make it secure and CRS Building Supplies donated lime mortar for

the work on the pound.

Stan said: “I started because the path had become overgrown so I just turned up with my strimmer and it has gone on from there.”

Gary said: “It’s good to do something like this. My brother was chatting to Stan who said he needed a bit of help, so here I am.”

The pound had fallen down and was almost completely hidden by undergrowth.

Ian added: “My wife walks the dog here and Stan was saying how good it would be to rebuild the pound; it’s a bit of local history.

“The path is very well-used and people are always stopping to chat and ask what is happening.”

To find out more or to donate to the project, visit: http://www.thestrawberryline.org.uk/index.php?section=donate

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 101

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Bin in for Trinity

Passionate about Peasedown

THE first Bin it for Trinity litter pick has been held in Frome, with more than 20 people taking part in the clear-up of the historic part of town.

Some joined in on the spur of the moment, including Oakfield Academy pupils Isaac Cornish and Toby George, who were passing by. Friederica Henderson, another resident who joined in, said: “It’s lovely that people are helping the environment.

I’m very impressed with the two boys who wanted to improve their surroundings for others their own age and generations to come. I came, I saw and I was impressed!”

The pick was organised by Trinity Community Group and supported by Frome Town Council. Karen Stewart, from the group, said: “We’re really happy about the turnout and it’s great to see people engaged with the community.”

LOCAL councillors and campaigners Sarah Bevan (left) and Karen Walker are pictured on one of their monthly litter picks around Peasedown St John.

They have drawn up a schedule of clear-ups around the village which take place at the end of their advice surgeries on the first Saturday of each month. Other residents are welcome to join them.

Karen said: “We do it because we both care deeply about Peasedown and want it to be somewhere residents can – and do – feel proud of.”

Their efforts helped the village win silver in their first year of entering the South West in Bloom competition.

Sarah added: “Every single resident wants the village to be litter-free.” ● Midsomer Norton’s Silver Street Nature Reserve has been named “outstanding” in the It’s Your Neighbourhood section of the Britain In Bloom competition.

The mayor of Frome, Sheila Gore, was part of the litter pick team

To arrange a community litter pick in Frome or borrow litter picking equipment, call 01373 465757 or email info@frometowncouncil.gov.uk

Cheques galore after 40th anniversary fete

AFTER Whitchurch Village Fete's 40th birthday on August Bank Holiday Monday, the committee was able to

donate cheques totalling £4,500 to 16 local charities and organisations at their presentation evening at the Whitchurch

Mike Squire presenting a cheque to Molly Dolly with her mum Jess Cook and friend Michelle Evans

PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Royal British Legion. They would welcome new volunteers to help at the fete next year.

Steve Thomas with Bob and Alma Saunders, ete volunteers who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary

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Children enjoy new play area

Children and local PCSOs

THE youngsters of Temple Cloud are enjoying their new extended playground, behind the village hall, which was opened at the end of October by the vice chair of Cameley parish council, Maria Musins, and local resident Carol Harris.

Carol has been volunteering at Cameley Primary School for the last 24 years, helping children with their reading every week, and has been awarded a certificate of recognition by the local Rotary Club.

Mrs Musins said: “She has also championed the play area project since the beginning and given a lot of time and devotion Chew Valley school pupils Emina and to ensure its success.”

Jess using the swings Cameley parish council funded the project using Section 106 monies, paid to B&NES council by the developers of recent housing in Goldney Way.

Carol Harris and Maria Musins about to cut the ribbon

Village challenge

COMMUNITY THE Royal British Legion hall at Dundry hosted a skittles evening between two teams from the neighbouring village of Norton Malreward.

The village hall committee challenged the committee from Holy Trinity Church and the match resulted in an overall success for the church side.

Pictured are the two top scorers for the church team, Paul Britten and Margaret Masding, and the winner of the Last Man Standing competition Kevin Sweet, from the village hall side.

Keeping Shepton tidy

CAMERON Holley is passionate about keeping his local community clean and tidy and has invested in litter-picking equipment for his weekly tour of Collett Park in Shepton Mallet.

Cameron, who has a diagnosed learning disability and autism, recently picked up 4.75kg worth of rubbish from one hedge!

He says he gets a great sense of achievement from helping his community, as well as having a positive impact on his environment, and those he meets.

Lions prepare for Christmas

FROM December 3rd Father Christmas will again be helping Yeo Valley Lions Club as their carol float tours Yatton and the surrounding villages in the run-up to Christmas.

The details of when and where he will be visiting are in the special programme which is being delivered to all homes in the areas to be covered.

In addition the annual carol service will take place in Yatton Precinct on Saturday December 16th at 5pm. The service will be introduced by local ministers and will be supported by Spotlight Sparklers from Yatton Junior School. All are very welcome to attend.

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Quilters support charity

Compton Dando craft days

Elizabeth Penney, Alice Prescott, Jill Elliott and Lesley Littler from Compton Dando and Pensford knitting and crocheting

DRAYCOTT Quilters raised over £1,800 for the Teenage Cancer Trust at their exhibition of over 40 quilts and sale of Christmas gifts and decorations.

Their quilt auction is still open to bids until Wednesday December 6th at 5pm. The current highest bid is £160.

Details: www.draycottquilters.co.uk

Chapel celebrates 150 years

CHEW Magna Baptist Chapel celebrated its 150-year anniversary with a special weekend, featuring a photo display of the past 150 years, a display of records from the archives, musical entertainment from piano studying pupils of Sam and Julie Kite and crafts, as well as lots of fun.

Pastor John miles said: “Over 150 people came to the open afternoon and evening concerts by Vox in Frox on the Saturday and we raised over £500 for Crisis Centre Ministries.”

Helen Banks, who organised the displays, said: “Our Sunday celebration service was lovely and attended by some friends from the past and other churches in the valley.”

During the weekend a celebration cake was cut by 95-yearold Joyce Trendle, who was also presented with flowers, having attended the chapel for over 90 years.

(l to r) Imogen, Olivia, Finn, Oscar, Mar and Bertie; back row Elena with Julie Kite (piano teacher)

PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

THE latest craft day at Compton Dando drew a record crowd to the village hall, where they shared crafts, a hot meal and good company.

When Harriette Dottridge retired she found that she had more time and saw that some older people felt isolated, so she started the craft days. She will be arranging more next year, the first two on January 27th and February 12th.

Details: hdottridge@hotmail.com

Sally and Hannah dressed up as two Victorian children

Joyce Trendle with Pastor John Miles as she reminisces about her early days at the chapel

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Supporting Mercy Ship

WRINGTON Vale Inner Wheel Club held a very successful Soup and Puds lunch in aid of Mercy Ships at St. James Hall, in Winscombe. For further information on the surgery carried out on these ships go to www.mercyships.com

Rotarians out and about

MEMBERS of the Rotary Club of Glastonbury and Street will be out and about in December with collections at the Street branches of both Lidl’s and Sainsbury’s stores for The Beckery Resource Centre and Shelter Box respectively.

Events in the pipeline for the New Year include a race evening in January at the Pipers Inn at Ashcott – the club’s home – a Royal Marine Band Concert in the MacMillan Theatre in Bridgwater in February and, in April, an evening with the Glastonbury Male Voice Choir in Cedars Hall, Wells. .

In the first four months of the Rotary year, the club has distributed in excess of £4,500. An ongoing initiative is its wishing well, in Clark’s Village, which has just raised £336.98 in aid of Avalon Hydrotherapy Pool.

For more information visit www.rotaryribi.org/clubs/homepage.php?ClubID=1209 or call Tim Smart on 01278 723021.

Helping Eady

STAFF at Tincknells Country Store in Wells have raised almost £500 for Eady Body, of Cranmore.

Eady, Matt Shellard, from Tincknells, presents Charly aged six, Body, Eady’s mum, with a cheque suffers from a Rett-like syndrome which restricts mobility and communication. ● The store will be hosting a festive shopping night on Wednesday, December 6th when staff will be holding a raffle to raise more funds for Eady’s Journey.

COMMUNITY

Visitors welcome at new information centre

Town crier David Greenway looks on as Emma George cuts the ribbon

THERE was a grand opening in Glastonbury for the town’s new information centre.

Civic leaders from across the area attended the celebrations after the refurbishment of St Dunstan’s House in Magdalene Street.

As well as housing the information centre and the Pilgrim Reception Centre, the building also acts as the front office of Glastonbury Town Council and houses some commercial space.

Glastonbury mayor Emma George, who performed the ribbon cutting ceremony, said: “This is not just about new offices, but about improving our governance and making us more accessible to the wider community.”

The directors of Glastonbury Information Centre at the official opening

Let there be lanterns

LANTERN makers of all ages will be converging on Shepton Mallet in December ahead of the town’s popular lantern festival.

Drop-in workshops will be held on the first three weekends in December at the Paul Street Community Centre, from 10am-4pm.

The number of workshops has been increased by 50 per cent to meet demand. Committee Chair Kate Lovell said; “We love giving people the chance to let their imaginations run wild, so we had to do something to increase capacity.”

The procession – sponsored by Shepton Mallet Town Council, Glastonbury Festival and Willmotts Transport – takes place on Saturday, December 23rd from the bandstand in Collett Park.

The procession will leave around 6pm for the Market Place, led by by Jamme de Samba and the Little Big Horns. They’ll be joined at the Market Cross by the Shepton Sings! Choir.

For details, visit: www.sheptonlanternfestival.org.uk

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Centenary celebration

CHEW Magna butcher, Cliff Pearce, has celebrated his 65th birthday and the 100th anniversary of the family business, which he recounted at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge. He’s pictured receiving a commemorative photograph from club president, Vic Clarke.

Small church with a big heart

THE tiny church of St Bridget’s, Chelvey raised £870 and had over 150 visitors for its Christmas fair. Half the funds will go to Caring at Christmas and half towards refurbishing the Tynte Chapel in the church.

Nativity trail

THE Pensford nativity trail will be returning again this year and will be open every weekend evening until Christmas and Boxing Day. The scenes will be open from dusk until 9pm and trail maps and guides will be available from Pensford lock-up.

The trail will be opening on Friday December 1st, around 5pm, finishing at Pensford church rooms for mulled wine. The life-size figures are the work of local man, Paul Baxter.

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WI celebrates

COMMUNITY

A MEMORABLE centenary celebration took place at the East Harptree Women’s Institute. The village theatre was beautifully decorated, there were plenty of archive photos and members Pictured (l tor) Hilary Hill, treasurer, past and present Gill Stobart, secrerary, Marion together with friends Tucker and Jenny Cruse, president from local WIs. A nod to 1917 asked guests to wear hats from that period – some wonderful examples made an appearance. The guest speaker was Gill Hogarth of Hinton Blewett, a local historian who had looked through the archives. In these she found names of the first members, some of whom had descendants present at the party.

Avon WI president, Jean Sims, presented a certificate from the National Federation of Women’s Institutes marking this very special milestone birthday.

As with all good birthday parties there was a magnificent cake which was cut by East Harptree WI president, Jenny Cruse, with Marion Tucker from East Harptree, aged 98, a member who has lived all her life in the village.

Feet first in Frome

FROME is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Cheddar and become an official Walkers are Welcome town.

The decision to apply for WaW status follows the official launch of the newly-named Mendip Way from Weston-super-Mare to Frome and a tourism conference which highlighted the economic benefits of tourism on foot.

The accreditation would mean that Frome’s public footpaths and facilities must be kept open and maintained, and new footpaths and walking groups created. Frome Town Council is backing the bid and is asking people to show their support by adding their names to the application.

Mayor Sheila Gore said: “The health benefits of walking are plenty – it can help improve stamina and improve heart health and good public well maintained footpaths are good for us all.

“I would really love for Frome to gain Walkers Are Welcome status to help champion accessibility to our beautiful Somerset countryside and show off Frome to all.” ● Forms can be found around the town in various cafes, the SHARE shop, Discover Frome Information Point at Black Swan Arts, DEKA running shop and the town hall. For further details, contact Emma Parker at: info@frometowncouncil.gov.uk

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Fly tip crackdown continues

Radstock awards

NEWS

The scene last year before the closure was implemented

MENDIP District Council says that more than £50,000 of taxpayers’ money has been saved following its decision to introduce temporary road closures at a notorious fly-tipping hotspot near Frome.

Since the decision in April 2016, there has been a reduction of 321 fly-tips at Berkley, saving the council time and money and improving the environment and quality of life for people living locally.

Now the closure is to be extended for a further three months after the council approved a proposal to implement a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), one of the new tools under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, to combat fly-tipping in the area.

It will install concrete barriers and the road closure will apply to Berkley Lane, from the north side of the Pines Residential Site to its junction with Dark Lane (Dark Lane is not affected).

Make a Difference overall award winner Dennis Chedgy with Mayor Keith Tyrrell

RADSTOCK’S first town mayor, Councillor Keith Tyrell’s, first task was to present the town’s Making a Difference awards, which acknowledge and recognise the huge contributions many individuals make to the well-being and benefit of the town.

The award went to Dennis Chedgy, one of the founders of Radstock Museum. The youth award winner was John Reynolds, the marathon runner.

Christmas gifts

Make a Difference youth award winner John Reynolds with chair of BANES Cherry Beath

Poppy appeal success EACH November local churches, schools and residents in the Chew Valley pack shoe boxes with goodies for less fortunate children for distribution through Operation Christmas Child.

Mel Jameson, from Chew Stoke, who has been doing this for over ten years, held a coffee morning, during which people were able to buy all they needed to pack nearly 65 boxes.

ORGANISERS of the annual poppy appeal in Wells say they hope to beat last year’s collection total of £26,800.

The appeal was boosted by a concert by Wells Cjty Band and violinist Poppy McGhee in October.

Derek Cooper, the appeal organiser, paid tribute to the volunteer collectors and committee for their efforts. He said: “It's a major task each year and I couldn't have done it without them and the fantastic public support.

“We had over 100 boxes in shops and businesses plus stalls in Tesco and Waitrose plus three Saturday market stalls – thanks to the market manager. The ATC, and army cadets were brilliant with collections in Morrison's and the High Street, as were the scouts.”

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 107

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HOMES & INTERIORS

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Marston Estate plans submitted

HOMES & INTERIORS

Support for lifeboat

An architect’s impression of the restored Keeper’s Cottage

A PROPOSAL to restore the main features of Marston Estate, a grade II listed park and garden with ruins near Frome, is being put forward by the Bonham Christie family who are long-standing residents in the local area.

The 19th century designed landscape is in urgent need of extensive work to prevent it going to ruin. These include: removing silt and trees from the lake to restore the island, much needed replanting in the woodland, reinstating lost historic pathways, rebuilding the ruins of the Boat House and Keeper’s Cottage, and protection of important wildlife habitats including the winter bird breeding areas.

The low-density development proposes 20 holiday lodges, a hub building, a reception area and the restored ruins. The family says the organic architecture plans are The ruined boat house sympathetic to the natural surroundings and aim to restore the historic fabric and purpose of Marston Estate so it can once again become a place for quiet recreation and enjoyment.

Mendip District Council is expected to consider the proposal in the New Year.

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CHIMNEY LINERS SECURITY LIGHTING ROOF REPAIRS GUTTER, FASCIAS AND WINDOW CLEANING

ONE of the contractors working on the Hinkley Point C project has donated more than £2,800 to the RNLI lifeboat Alex Smale, Chris Lightowler and Sean Riley, station at from Costain, present the cheque to Burnham Burnhamoperations manager Matt Davies (left). Also on-Sea. pictured are Nathan Meager and Dan Fear Costain are working in the Bristol Channel and runs a staff scheme to promote local charities.

The donation will cover the training costs of volunteers Dan Fearm a probationary lifeboat crew member, and trainee helmsman Nathan Meager.

Costain construction director Alex Smale, said: “Given our activities in the local area we made the logical choice to support the RNLI and in particular the Burnham-on-Sea station and we are proud to be able to help fund the training and development of the volunteer crew who will continue to provide this life saving service long after Costain have departed the area.”

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Sing with Mendip Male Voice Choir

Remember: singing is good for your health!

We are always pleased to welcome new members to our choir. You do not need to be a trained singer, just to enjoy singing and be willing to learn!

We rehearse once a week on Mondays at 7.15pm during term times at St Mary’s School, Timsbury.

Come and find our more or call chairman Peter Beaven on 01761 233841

Choirs sing for charity

FOUR Somerset male voice choirs delighted a packed audience in Wells Cathedral with an extravaganza of music and song.

Musical directors and accompanists from Avon and Somerset Police Choir, Glastonbury, Mendip and Taunton Deane shared the honours as they ably went through a varied and uplifting programme in this glorious setting.

A tribute was paid by Dave Greenwood, the chairman of Glastonbury Choir, to Hugh Berry their former chairman who sadly died in the spring. The choirs sang Softly As I Leave You in his memory.

The charities that will benefit from the concert are Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Children's Hospice South West. Speakers representing both charities addressed the audience and the generous donations in the police helmets at the end of the concert reflected the strength of their words. ● Mendip Male Voice Choir is launching a recruitment drive with a call for trained – and untrained – singers to join them.

The choir says the only requirements are a love of singing and a willingness to learn and add there are many benefits to singing in a large group.

MMVC rehearse on Monday nights in term times at St Mary’s School in Timsbury. Anyone interested in welcome to turn up ahead of the 7.15pm start or contact choir chairman Peter Beaven on 01761 233841.

The choir’s next major performance is their annual Christmas concert on Saturday, December 16th at St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton.

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

LIVE MUSIC FROM 9pm EVERY FRIDAY! December 1st: Ray Jones Band. Three-piece playing a mixture of rock to modern day classics – with a few of their own songs thrown in the mix too.

December 8th: K’Fuffle. In their own words: rejoice as three grown men who should know a lot better play the songs you love and murder them.

December 15th: Train to Skaville. Covering songs by such notaries as the Specials, Madness, Bob Marley, Toots & The Maytals, Jimmy Cliff and Bad Manners, Train to Skaville are the ultimate sunshine band.

December 22nd: The Tripes. A Bristol-based rock and blues band, playing a mixture of originals and covers with a twist.

December 29th: Spring Loaded. Shepton Mallet’s own rock/pop covers band.

Playing your favourite songs to dance, sing along and have a great time to.

PAGE 114 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Choral music at its best

The choir in St John’s Church

AN audience in Axbridge of around 150 people were treated to a performance of Russian choral music in St John’s Church by the Voskresenije Choir from St Petersburg.

The group of nine conservatoire-trained professional singers were on a two-month tour of the UK and performed a varied programme of Russian sacred music and folk songs from their homeland.

Proceeds from the concert, organised by the Friends of Axbridge Church, will go towards maintaining and enhancing the church.

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MUSIC

Alcantara . . . beyond the Wells

MENDIP artist Peter Lawrence and Jordanian soprano and artist Zeina Barhoum are busy preparing for a major charity concert in Wells in March, which will receive royal patronage.

The concert, of western and middle eastern music, will be attended by HRH Princess Muna, the British-born mother of King Abdullah II of Jordan.

It follows the launch of a joint exhibition of paintings by Peter and Zeina at the Bishop’s Palace.

The project is called Alcantara … beyond the Wells and also features a book of their work, complemented by prose and poetry from writers in Somerset and the Levant with a foreword by the princess and a prelude by the Dean of Wells. Alcantara is an Arabic word for bridge and Zeina, having trained in Rome as an operatic soprano, aims to bridge cultures with her music and art.

All proceeds from sales of the book are supporting three

Zeina (seated) with Peter Lawrence behind and guests at the book launch

Zeina and Peter

refugee charities whose representatives spoke at the launch event.

Zeina also gave a concert to an “Ebenezer Presents” audience in Aller as a prelude to the concert in Wells Cathedral on Friday, March 16th.

Zeina, wearing a dress with colourful Palestinian embroidery, gave a recital at the book launch accompanied by pianist Rachel Knoedler, of Glastonbury

The Alcantara exhibition is on show at the Bishop’s Palace until the end of January. For details of the project, visit: www.peterlawrence.uk

Choir gets ready for Christmas GLASTONBURY Male Voice Choir is busy rehearsing for its next concert which has a full programme of Christmas songs and carols at St John’s Church, Glastonbury on Wednesday December 13th at 8pm.

This has become a very popular sell-out occasion in Glastonbury as it combines an opportunity to be entertained by the choir singing some wonderful Christmas music with carols for the whole congregation.

This year John’s church will be a visual delight with a large number of Christmas trees each decorated by local organisations.

The choir membership is almost 40strong and growing steadily. They sing a wide range of music ranging from modern popular music to some more traditional pieces. Their rehearsals are

great fun and under the guidance of musical director Tracey Hansford they gain an enormous amount of satisfaction from learning new pieces.

January marks the start of rehearsals of their popular and classical songs ready for their main concert season through the spring and summer. This makes it an

excellent time for anyone interested in joining the choir to go along to Glastonbury Town Hall on Tuesday evenings at 7.45pm to see how they like singing in a choir.

The choir regularly performs around the area providing entertainment and helping raise funds for local charities.

Details: www.glastonburymalevoicechoir.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 115

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The Twelve Days of Christmas – equine style

SHORT days, heating on, Christmas cards and presents purchased, written, posted, the horse languishing bored in the stable or plodding With RACHEL drearily through the THOMPSON mud … a familiar MBE tale?

But wait! The dark season is the perfect time to improve your equine partnership by experimenting with ground work and exploring the countryside. I asked the yard team for 12 days of Christmas ideas – much of which can be performed with a head torch or in electric light.

Start an equine book club – scour charity shops and the attic for horse DVDs and books left languishing and unloved since our dependency on Google and Safari for horse-related wisdom. Light the fire, pour the wine and invite your horsey chums around to re-discover great advice from author/trainers Michael Peace, Claire Lilley, Elwyn Hartley Edwards, Lesley Bayley, Richard Maxwell, Kelly Marks, Jo Bird and our own local author Joanna Day – to name a few.

Have fun working in hand or on long lines.

No arena available to

1

2&3

lunge in? Lateral movements on a single line can be performed anywhere. Add a second outside rein and long line around the yard and track. Supple the horse through gentle circles, transitions, serpentines, shoulder in and leg yielding. Who needs the gym when you can run behind practicing transitions?!

Add ground poles (or branches) in squares and fans or raised to aid education and concentration.

Learn to massage. One of the oldest forms of therapy – practiced by the Chinese and Romans.

Easily learnt and applied, touch has a strong healing, soothing and relaxing effect improving physical and mental well-being.

Play games in the stable asking your horse to move around, stretch and bend for a carrot.

Venture out with friends to talks and clinics with or without your horse. Most local equestrian centres, voluntary groups, charities and veterinary practices run events throughout the winter – you can always learn something.

Sunny day? Ride in the woods.

These are lovely tranquil places in winter especially when the low sun highlights the starkness of the trees.

Often there are mud and traffic free gravel tracks great for walking and trotting.

Problems loading into a trailer or lorry? Ensure that summer outings become hassle-free by spending

4 5

6

7

A winter walk in the woods

PAGE 116 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

8

9

Clara and Stretch – winter’s a great time to work in hand or on long lines

the winter months making time to practice loading, closing the ramp and asking the horse to stay happily inside munching on a hay net.

Set up an obstacle course using anything safe and handy: cardboard boxes, barrels, tarpaulins/sacks, cones, yard gate etc.

Walk the horse through narrow spaces, in and out of cones and practice opening and closing the gate.

Desensitise. Fearful of cars, tractors, water? Use the winter months to work on calmly overcoming these fears in a safe, controlled environment.

Go hacking along Mendip’s network of tarmac and stone lanes (check OS Explorer maps for roads shown in yellow/or white with green dots). Less traffic in the winter and with bare hedgerows it’s easy to spot bird and animal life on show in the fields.

Clear out your tack room and give someone else a great Christmas by donating unwanted items to equine charities or selling them (and give the money to charity). Langford Vets, for example, is hosting a tack sale in aid of Hannah’s Wilberry Wonder Pony charity on Sunday, December 3rd, from 122.30pm.

10 11 12

For information or to book a table call 07794 564846 or email: blackhorseboxhire@gmail.com

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RIDING

Horses in the key of life

By Mark Adler

A MENDIP-based charity is harnessing horsepower to try to prevent young convicted criminals from reoffending – with some remarkable results.

Key4Life is also using similar techniques to work with young people who are at risk of offending, both with the support of the equestrian community. A charity race day at Wincanton Racecourse to mark the fifth anniversary of Key4Life’s work raised £95,000 for its latest project at Guy’s Marsh prison in Dorset.

The charity – which has offices in

A delighted Amy Derham returns to the parade ring on board Volpone Jelois

Jack (far left) and Anthon (far right) with Eva and Paul Nicholls at the yard

Butleigh – was founded by Eva Hamilton MBE who has a distinguished background in charitable work and who believes that gaining the trust of young offenders – often gang leaders or drug dealers – is the start of the road to rehabilitation.

And that is where the power of horses comes in – often quite literally. The charity regularly takes horses into prison to meet offenders and their reactions can be extraordinary. Eva said: “Some are totally terrified when they see a horse up close for the first time. Horses are very sensitive creatures and feel our emotions and will back off, but once the person’s fear subsides they begin to bond.”

That is a lesson from Eva’s own personal experiences when the pressures of work became too great; her own horses knew something was wrong.

Key4Life also works with other sports and the music industry in its seven-step

Anthon and Jack with Harry Derham, who also rode in the race

programme underpinned by mentoring.

The programme can take a year to deliver and begins by creating emotional resilience, through employability and work experience to on-going support. Some exoffenders have themselves become mentors.

Two ex-offenders spent time at trainer Paul Nicholls’s yard in Ditcheat as part of their preparation for work. Anthon and Jack joined Team Ditcheat under the supervision of assistant trainer, Harry Derham, and were responsible for general yard duties that included mucking out, grooming, yard cleaning and turn out on the walker.

Their efforts were rewarded when the pair welcomed home Key4Life charity race winner Volpone Jelois, the Ditcheat Thoroughbreds syndicate-owned horse ridden by Harry’s sister Amy Derham and the horse they had cared for.

The jockeys with Anthon, Eva and Jack before the race

For details about Key4Life, visit www.key4life.org.uk

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Plenty of reasons to celebrate

CELEBRATIONS to mark the 150th anniversary of Wincanton Racecourse are well underway.

A commemorative book tracing the history of the muchloved track has been published to coincide with the start of the season.

And its biggest fixture of the season so far – the Badger Chase Day – saw a victory for Present Man in the feature Badger Ales Trophy steeplechase. The horse, ridden by Bryony Frost, gave trainer Paul Nicholls his 350th winner at the The Paul Nicholls-trained Orbasa gave Jockey Clubyoung jockey Henry Morshead his first owned track. victory on his debut as a professional

Wincanton Racecourse, The First 150 Years author George Bingham with Wincanton chairman Jo Hepburn. George collaborated with artist Michelle McCullagh on the book

Bryony Frost (left) takes the lead on Present Man in the Badger Ales Trophy race

Wincanton’s next main fixture is its Boxing Day meeting.

Visit: www.wincanton.thejockeyclub.co.uk for details.

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RIDING

An eventful year for SEP

AS 2017 draws to a close, everyone at Stables Equine Practice is reflecting on an eventful year.

Thoroughly settled at their Conkerfield Clinic, last New Year thoughts turned to celebrating the 20th anniversary of the practice, with the introduction of special offers, such as free visits, “three go free”, reduced price “wormwise” packages and 20/20 introduce a friend vouchers.

Hot on the heels of the 20th anniversary hogroast and Pimms celebrations came the announcement that Stables Equine Practice were to join forces with University of Bristol, Langford, a natural and logical collaboration, on many levels and for many it will be business as usual with Stables Equine Practice virtually unchanged. In the new year the existing five vet line-up will be joined in Wookey by two veterinary colleagues from Langford, Anna Hammond and Sam Bescoby, additionally all the Vet School expertise and facilities will be more accessible to our and clients.

Throughout the year, SEP clients have been competing successfully in most equestrian disciplines, both in the UK and abroad. Their achievements can be found on the SEP website. Congratulations to everyone!

Sadly, it’s not been all good news; in November the practice lost its much-loved receptionist Lindsey Hillyer.

Many will have met Linds at the practice or jump judging but many will just know her as a friendly voice on the end of the phone. She will be sorely missed.

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W IT H B E S T W I S H ES F O R C H R IS T M A S A N D T H E N E W Y E AR ★ Treating horses and ponies throughout Somerset from our purpose built clinic base near Wells ★ Providing a personal and professional service for all horses at your home or at our clinic ★ 24 hour emergency cover – our dedicated equine vets always available at the end of a phone ★ Fully mobile service with state-of-the-art equipment for dentistry, pre-purchase examinations, fertility work (including AI) as well as all aspects of routine health car Stables Equine Practice, Conkerfield, Pennybatch Lane, Wookey, Wells BA5 1NH Tel: 01749 830666 • website: www.stablesequinepractice.co.uk

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Up the hill as records tumble

IT was a case of “birthday celebrations” and “try and try again” as two back-to-back open hill climbs took place at Rodney CYCLING Stoke and with EDMUND LODITE Burrington Combe.

For some this was the last chance to take part in a race before the National Hill Climb Championships, held in late autumn each year.

The first event was held at Westclose Hill in Rodney Stoke which was used for the National Championships in 2000. Back then, the organisers had wanted to use nearby hill Draycott Steep which is a brute of a climb but problems with access meant moving the event to the easier Westclose Hill.

Jim Henderson the winner at the time said “the difference is academic, as racing flat-out up a 1:7 feels just as horrible as flat-out up a 1:5!”

Despite a gale force wind, the two kilometre long course, with a height gain climb of 172 metres, attracted a large field.

Joanne Jago claimed victory, in the women’s event, with a comfortable winning margin of 31 seconds. In the men’s event Andrew Feather finished first just nine seconds short of the course record set by Jim Henderson in 2000.

Cycling author Paul Jones

supplemented the winner’s prizes with copies of his book on hill climbing A Corinthian Endeavour – The Story of the National Hill Climb Championship.

The origin of hill climb races can be traced back to 1880 when the Surrey Bicycle Club organised a climb of Reigate Hill. Thereafter, hill climbs quickly spread across the country and came to find its place at the end of the road season. In 1944 the first edition of the National Championship was held in the UK. Historically, competitors often chose to use a fixed gear bike for lower weight and the ability to maintain pedalling momentum. With the

Joanne Jago PAGE 120 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Joe Norledge

advancement and dominance of gearing technology, many amateurs still prefer to participate with fixed gears, partly in homage to the history of the sport.

The day after Westclose Hill an even larger field competed in the Burrington Combe Hill climb. Although longer than Westclose Hill, its overall profile is not as steep.

The subtle differences in length and profile between hills can influence the outcome, favouring either the power sprinter or the mountain goat.

With a strong tailwind it was a chance to record a good time, but unless the wind was to suddenly stop, the advantage was the same for everyone.

In the women’s event, Joanne Jago was again victorious and celebrated her birthday in perfect style by slicing 35 seconds off the course record she set last year. Meanwhile in the men’s event Joe Norledge who had finished second on Westclose Hill returned to the podium but this time as the winner.

In the UK, amateur riders can take part in the same race as the best hill climbers, all competing against gravity and the clock.

As these take place late in the year there is the added challenge of wheelspin from leaves and greasy roads to contend with.

The Italians end the season with the Il Lombardia, known as the race of the falling leaves. The British, as Jones points out in his book, end with the race of the slipping wheels!

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SPORT

Rotarians are kit sponsors

Cricket club is 156 not out

Chilcompton Sports U15 football team with Steven Morris of Somer Valley Rotary Club

The 1st XI back in the top flight for 2018

SOMER Valley Rotary Club members are putting their shirts on Chilcompton Sports under-15s having another successful season.

The club is sponsoring the team’s kit in recognition of the work the sports club is doing with the local community. The under-15s – managed by Leon Cole – won their league last season, winning 17 out of 18 matches, and have enjoyed a successful start to this campaign.

Rotarian Steven Morris said: “This is a true community club providing sport to young people and adults from the village and surrounding areas.” ● The sponsor of Chilcompton Sports under-7s is The Poacher’s Pocket at Chelynch. They play in the Midsomer Norton and District youth league. New players are welcome. The team trains from 9-10am on Saturday mornings.

Poppy and Keith Player from the Poacher’s Pocket with Chilcompton Sports U7s and coach Mike Hoey

Sports award

FAIRLANDS Middle School in Cheddar has achieved the School Games Silver Mark Award, which was launched in 2012 to reward schools for their commitment to the development of competition across their school and into the community.

Vicky Evans, curriculum leader for PE, said: “We are thrilled that the hard work of the PE staff and pupils has been rewarded.

“We have increased participation in both inter and intra school sports, the number of sporting opportunities available to the pupils and also the number of pupils attending these opportunities.”

BURNHAM-on-Sea Cricket Club celebrated its 156th season with its annual presentation evening attended by around 60 guests.

Next season, the 1st XI will return to the Somerset Cricket League Premier Division.

Awards were made to: 1st XI batting: Robbie Driver; 2nd XI: Andy Ashfold. 1st XI bowling: James Annison; 2nds: Luke Gowan.

Sunday XI batting: Brad House; bowling: Andy Birkett. 1st XI player of the year: Brad House; 2nds: Clubman Lee Coles with chairman Darren Aston.

Andy Birkett Clubman of the year: Lee Coles. Midweek XI player of the year: Craig Scriven. Brad House received a special award for scoring 1161 runs in all cricket during 2017.

(Photography courtesy of Mike Lang)

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Gold, silver and bronze for Team Burrington

BURRINGTON CofE Primary School started the first term of the new academic year how they finished the last one – with sporting success. Some 374 children took part in the North Somerset Schools Level 2 Cross Country event at Hutton Moor in October.

Burrington’s Year 6 girls won the team bronze medal. Harriet Brown finished in sixth position and Grace Hurst finished

Somerset Cup defeat for Norton

eighth. In the Year 6 Boys’ category Herbie Cooksley finished in tenth position.

Harriet, Grace and Herbie have all been invited to participate in the Inter Area Primary Cross Country competition in Bristol. In the Y4 races Maddock Jackson-Brown and Tilly Fitton-White both received bronze medals for their third place achievement in their

Norton (in red and white) in action before the cup match in a thrilling league game against rivals Winscombe, winning 31-17

MIDSOMER Norton RFC are out of the Somerset Cup after a heavy loss to higher-placed Bridgwater and Albion RFC. Norton travelled with a mixed squad, including some with no 1st XV experience but the two sides were evenly matched in the first half.

Bridgwater then scored three quick tries in the second half to take the game away from the visitors, eventually winning 61-17.

PAGE 122 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

respective races.

This success follows on from the silver medal that the Y5/6 Quadkids team achieved in the Level 3 competition held at Bath University in July.

To top off the achievements Burrington CofE Primary School was awarded the School Games’ Gold Award for the 2016/17 academic year.

Victory for Jonathan

CHEDDAR-based Tae Kwon-Do student Jonathan Pratt is celebrating after winning his first national competition.

Jonathan, who trains with the TAGB Tae KwonDo Club at King Fitness and Leisure, is over the moon with his performance. The British Championships were held at the beginning of November at the Jonathan at the championships in Birmingham Arena.

Birmingham More than 1,500 competitors took part with international teams travelling from the Netherlands, Poland and the USA. Senior TABG instructor Jane Lambert said: “Jonathan has been very focused and committed to his training and it’s great when all that hard work pays off. He is now a British champion and we are very proud of him.”

“Tae Kwon-Do is a great way to build confidence by encouraging you to succeed and to take control of your life.

Beginners of all ages and abilities are alway welcome.”

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Honour for Mo Boys

AT this year’s Croquet Association AGM, Mo Boys of the Peasedown & Camerton Croquet Club was honoured with their Diploma for Services to Croquet.

The citation read: “Mo Boys spearheaded the Mo Boys received her diploma from the creation of a new Croquet Association's president, Quiller club at Camerton Barret and Peasedown which launched in 2012. She has been an inspirational chairwoman. Her phenomenal hard work and commitment have resulted in the establishment of an inclusive, friendly membership.

“She has dedicated time and skill to coach players in the club and, for over a decade, throughout the South West Federation.

CPCC would not be known as it is today for its welcome and hospitality without her dedication and inspirational example.”

Throughout the summer CPCC have been holding their annual golf croquet competitions in open, handicap, and high handicap level singles and handicap doubles tournaments. Those knocked out in the first round were eligible for the corresponding plate competition.

Both the open and handicap singles trophies were won by Andy Loakes; the reward for his endeavours in the two years he has been playing. The most surprising winner was Sandra Fraser who, after last year’s dearth of wins, determinedly entered all the tournaments and won the most unexpected, the open singles plate.

She claimed it was luck when, after being in the final for the third time, she placed her ball in the hoop’s jaw from a distance of over ten yards. Brian Wilson won the handicap singles plate.

The high handicap trophy was won by Christina Sandford and the plate by Guy Milne. Patrick and Barbara Knight won the handicap doubles trophy and Marie-Jose Oldland and David Milford, the plate.

Because of League commitments, this year’s association croquet tournament was reduced to a short croquet competition, which, Colin Britt won, followed closely by David Milford.

Sporting Rickford

SPORT

Cyclists on the Royal Flyer

RIDERS from the recently formed Rickford Cycling Club entered the Wiggle Super Series Royal Flyer Sportive in Norfolk, which took riders Matt Hartley, Stu Parker, Jo Wessell and Rich Hartley on a challenging loop which included the Royal Sandringham estate.

The 45-mile course was made more arduous by East Anglia’s seemingly constant windy conditions throughout.

The riders were rewarded however by a drive-past by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as the route passed through the royal grounds.

Meanwhile Geoff Wessell and Mike James took to the start line for the 2017 Exmoor Trail Running Challenge.

Geoff was joined by his golden labrador Dexter to run in the Cannicross section. The event claims to be the ultimate trail run with open moorlands, heavily wooded valleys and coastal paths with runners covering the tough 14.5 miles with 4,750 feet of ascent.

Geoff and Dexter finished their first Cannicross event in a superb 11th place with a time of 3h 17mins. Mike came home in 14th place in the Male Veteran section in a time of 3h 18min.

Mike (left) and Geoff on the Exmoor trail

Golf club supports hospice

MENDIP Spring Golf & Country Club’s annual appeal culminated in ladies’ captain, Sue Acland, and club captain, Ian Suttle, presenting a cheque for £7,122 to the Children’s Hospice South West at the organisation’s Open day at Charlton Farm in Wraxall.

Also at the presentation was Sue Drury, the wife of Mike Drury who sadly passed away early in his year as club captain.

She’s pictured (left) with (l to r) Sue Acland, hospice community fundraiser Kylie Gallagher, and Ian Suttle.

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Tennis club winners

Some of the award winners

WELLS Tennis Club has hosted its annual presentation evening with a chance for players to celebrate their achievements.

The annual award for the player who has most impressed members through the year was presented to Caroline Moule.

Caroline, who has been a member for 20 years, was chosen as a good role model for other players, an ambassador for the club in the local community, volunteering to help at events and by playing in a variety of league matches. She is also the club’s welfare officer.

Club President Tasha Smith said: “Wells is a thriving club and it’s a pleasure for me to be president and hand out awards, especially as we’re seeing a few new people taking part in the competitive championships.”

Caroline added: “I was delighted, speechless and overwhelmed to receive the honour from my fellow players at Wells.”

Tasha (left) with Caroline

Wells Tennis Club held their junior championships on Sunday, November 12th and William Harris was the winner, beating Zeno Sfetcu in the final.

PAGE 124 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

Go Freddie, go

SPORT

Freddie with some of the trophies he has won so far

AS Freddie Baker posed for photographs alongside his kart and dozens of trophies a passer-by stopped, smiled and said: “The next Lewis Hamilton, then?”

Whether the woman was a fan of F1 or not, she had pretty much read the eight-year-old’s mind. And there amongst the haul of silverware was a signed photograph of the four-times world champion with the message: “Go, Freddie, go”.

Freddie, of Shepton Mallet, has achieved some notable successes since he first got into a kart aged four and started racing competitively two years later. Kart races take place across the country but Freddie has all the family behind him, especially granddad John Nash, who was a karting mechanic for many years.

Friends and teachers at St Aldhelm’s School at Doulting are fans.

Now Freddie is preparing to leave the Bambino age group for six-eight-year-olds and compete in the Cadet group, for children up to 12. It means a farewell to his current kart – capable of almost 50mph – as he moves up to a 60cc machine ahead of next season. Freddie said: “I love the speed, it’s great fun.”

John said: “When he’s on the track you can see that he instinctively reads the line to take and where some kids will take their foot off the pedal as they get to a corner, he goes through at top speed. These are not just kids in karts; they are trained, skilled drivers.”

Karting comes at a price, however, and the family know they cannot compete with some for whom money appears to be no object. The sport is strictly governed by the Motor Sports Association, but some hand-built engines can cost thousands compared to more basic models.

Freddie in action at Shenington Kart Racing Club, near Banbury

Anyone who would like to help Freddie and his family should contact John on: 07583 932311.

(Photo courtesy of Andrew Webb, Sprocket Photography: www.sprocketphotography.com)

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Blessed are the cheesemakers

THE makers of Wookey Hole Cave Aged Cheddar will go to any lengths to ensure their multi award-winning cheeses are in plentiful supply for Christmas.

Aged 200 feet beneath the Mendip Hills at Wookey Hole, the truckles received the help of the Wookey Hole Witch at Halloween who cast a spell to ward off evil influences.

Mike Pullin from Ford Farm, where the cheese is made, said: “Christmas is our busiest time of year and each traditional truckle maturing in the caves is earmarked to go to retailers all over the UK in time for Christmas.

“We have to make sure every truckle achieves absolute perfection and we’ll do everything we can to make this happen, even calling on the help of the Wookey Hole Witch and her team.”

Just a few months earlier, Ford Farm achieved eight awards at the International Cheese Awards in Nantwich – the most prestigious show for cheesemakers in the world.

Ford Farm’s recently-launched Cave Aged Goat Variety came up trumps, making the most significant impact on the palates of the discerning judges. This firm textured cheese, which is similar in style to a cheddar but with a clean, goat flavour achieved a gold in the retailer category with Tesco Finest Cave Aged Goat, as well a silver in the goat’s cheese class. Cave Aged Cheddar achieved four awards in total – three silvers and one very highly commended.

Ford Farm is based on the Ashley Chase Estate in Dorset where another of its cheeses – West Country Farmhouse PDO Cheddar – was made into poppy-shapes to be sold for to raise funds for this year’s Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Last year, with the support of Tesco, Ford Farm raised £8,000 for the Poppy Appeal. This year, they were hoping to increase that figure to more than £11,000.

W IN

A

Everything plus the kitchen sing

WHAT’S ON

THE Churchill Singers will be entertaining visitors to Glastonbury Abbey on Sunday, December 10th with a suitably seasonal performance in the Abbot’s Kitchen.

The concert – followed by festive drinks – will take place between 2-3pm and is just one of the ways the Abbey is getting into the Christmas spirit.

Santa will be taking a break from the North Pole on three successive Saturdays at the abbey, on December 2nd, 9th and 16th between 11am and 2pm. He will also be in the Abbot’s Kitchen and bookings to meet him are now open online.

Visitors can listen to a festive story and tell him their Christmas wishes before seeing his reindeer and having a photograph taken in his sleigh.

The price is per child and is to meet Santa only. Abbey admission needs to be added when you make your booking and is at the online advance price. For more information visit www.glastonburyabbey.com

H AMPER F OR C HRISTMAS

ONCE again, Mendip Times has teamed up with Ford Farm to offer one reader the chance to win a cheese-themed hamper of goodies (similar to the one pictured above) along with a family ticket – for four – to enjoy Wookey Hole Caves.

Hidden on the pages of this month’s Mendip Times are three golden rabbit figures; a fourth appears somewhere on the Ford Farm’s website – www.fordfarm.com – where you can find out all about Wookey Hole Caved Aged Cheddar and their other cheeses.

To enter, find all four rabbits and tell us exactly where they are. Please send your answers to Wookey Hole Cave Aged Cheddar Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon BS40 7RG. Answers must reach us by Monday, December 11th. The first correct entry chosen will be the winner. The editor’s decision is final. We aim to deliver the hamper in time for Christmas.

MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017 • PAGE 125

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Festive highlights at Wells Cathedral

THE season of Christmas really begins at Wells Cathedral a few days before Christmas Day when the cathedral, lit by thousands of candles, celebrates the coming of the child of Bethlehem at two great candlelit concerts.

This is a special and busy time in the cathedral’s year; details of the many events and services taking place are available on the website and everyone is invited to visit, worship and celebrate together.

Looking to the New Year, on Saturday January 20th, 10am – 3pm, the cathedral opens its doors to children aged four-11 for its annual Children’s Festival. With a theme in 2018 of “Noah and the Flood” it will be a great day out so expect worship, circus skills, crafts, music and animals!

Go as a group or as a family but places do need to be prebooked at £1.50 per person.

Details: 01749 674483 email education@wellscathedral.uk.net or go to www.wellscathedral.org.uk

Anyone for clog dancing?

EVER thought of trying North West (clog) morris? Mr Wilkins' Shilling hold weekly practices within easy reach of the Mendip area – in fact they already have members living in the Frome and Timsbury areas.

The dance group is all female, but any folk musicians (male or female) who would like to join the band would be very welcome. No experience is needed – just comfortable shoes and a sense of humour! They promise a fun evening and a good way to keep fit.

They will be holding a taster session at Batheaston Catholic church hall, BA1 7EN on Thursday January 25th, 8pm.

Details: www.mrwilkinsshilling.org.uk or phone 01225 859338.

Sing for Somerset

SOMERSET Community Foundation is once again inviting members of the public to join them for their annual Sing for Somerset carol service in the magnificent Wells Cathedral on Saturday, December 16th at 7pm.

Admission is free, no tickets are required and

doors will open at 6.15pm.

Sing for Somerset features a festive mix of traditional and contemporary music conducted by Laurence Blyth, featuring the Mid-Somerset Orchestra, Somerset Voices choir and organist Matthew Redman. Carol sheets will be provided for all to join in the festivities.

The retiring collection will benefit the work of Somerset Community Foundation.

Details: info@somersetcf.org.uk or call 01749 344949

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Dance into Christmas

THE Beetlecrushers have enjoyed an extended “dancing out” season this year, with performances at both Barrington Court's Apple Day and Pumpkins on the Platform at Midsomer Norton Heritage Station.

A variety of dances from around the British Isles were enthusiastically received, as well as a new dance choreographed using traditional steps.

The final opportunity to see the group before the end of the year will be in Glastonbury on December 3rd at The Rural Life Museum's A Very Victorian Christmas.

As a group, their doors are always open to new members, with or without previous experience.

Details: Secretary Ann 01373 812227 www.beetlecrushers.org.uk

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

Starts Friday 24th November Starts Friday 1st December

Starts Friday 8th December Starts Friday 14th December

CELEBRATING OUR 25th ANNIVERSARY! A Bad Moms Christmas (15) Professor Marston & The Wonder Woman (15) Only The Brave (12A) • Wonder (PG) Film Stars Don’t Die In Liverpool (15) The Florida Project (15) The Star (U) • Suburbicon (15) Star Wars VIII book now

Event Cinema Tuesday 5th The Nutcracker ROH for December Thursday 7th Young Marx NT

● Book in person ● Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk ● Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

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Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. Commercial entries cost £25.

Wednesday November 29th "The Gurkhas" a talk by Brigadier Bruce Jackson for Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support Society, 1.30pm, Backwell WI Hall.

Details: Sheila 01275 462107.

Mendip Society work day, Sladers Leigh nature reserve, meet in National Trust car park BS25 1DH. Details: Judith 01725 87428.

Thursday November 30th West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk, 10 miles from Herriot’s Bridge, OS Map Ex 141 ST573582, start 10am, park north end Herriot’s Bridge. Details: Vi Howley 07711 662993 or vihowley@me.com Westfield Christmas Lights switch-on at the Christmas tree at the top of Elm Tree Avenue.

6.30pm. The Rev. Ian Rousell from St Peter’s Church is giving the reading and children from Westfield Primary School and Fosse Way School will perform the ceremony. All welcome.

Friday December 1st – Sunday December 3rd Nativity, Angel & Star Festival, St Cuthberts Church, Wells, 10am-4.30pm Fri and Sat, 11.30-4.30pm, Sun, music and refreshments, free entry.

Friday December 1st Open Mic Night at Redhill, hosted by Jerry Blythe, join us and unwind with an evening of live music, Redhill Club, BS40 5SG, starting 8pm. Details: Jerry 07900 587646.

Cheddar Festive Night – various attractions, stalls and entertainment in the village and gorge, from 5.30pm.

From Notebook to Bookshop. Debate organised by Stella Scribes. Cheddar Library, 24pm. Stellar Scribes is a group of local authors whose writing covers a range of genres from thrillers to literary fiction and romantic comedy.

Join the debate, chat with the writers – Anne Randall, Jan Ellis, Nikki Copleston and Sonja Price – and pick up some Christmas reading.

Contact Cheddar Library to reserve your free tickets: www.somerset.gov.uk/libraries tel. 0300 123 2224.

Concert by Castle Cary Choir. 7.30pm, All Saints Church, Nunney. An evening of Christmas songs with some special guest soloists. Tickets £8 to include interval refreshments – contact Allan Koop on 01373 836218. In aid of All Saints Church roof fund.

Ffi: www.castlecarychoir.org Saturday December 2nd Churchill Music! Ellipsis Ensemble return for an evening of music, fine wines & canapes, 7.30pm-10pm, St. John's Church, BS25 5QW, tickets £18.50 champions; £22.50 nonchampions. Details: www.churchillmusic.org.uk PAGE 128 • MENDIP TIMES • DECEMBER 2017

T i m e s

01934 844106 or on the door.

Mendip Society walk Harptree Combe, 5 miles, meet 1.30pm at Herriots Bridge, A368 at southern end of Chew Valley Lake BS40 6HN. ST 570 581. Details: Peter 01761 221995.

Christmas Artisan Market, Browne’s Garden Centre, Wells, 10am-3pm, over 20 local artisans: seasonal food, crafts and gifts.

Radstock Museum Christmas Fair, stalls, charities, raffle, entertainment throughout the day, 10am-4pm. Details: Patricia Herbert 01761 452326.

Frome Society for Local Study lecture.

Adrian Tinniswood OBE: The Long Weekend: life in the English country house between the wars. The tumultuous, scandalous and glamorous history of English country houses during the years between World Wars.

Assembly Rooms (rear of Frome Memorial Theatre) 2.30pm. members free, £3 visitors.

Radstock Museum annual Christmas Fair.

10am-4pm. Includes raffle and tombola with live entertainment throughout the day.

Organised by Friends of Radstock Musuem.

Admission free. Ffi: www.radstockmuseum.co.uk Mendip Folk Dance Club Christmas dance St James Church Hall Winscombe, BS25 1AQ, 8pm-10pm, £3 per person, refreshments included. Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Saturday December 2nd – Sunday December 3rd Christmas Tree Festival, St Peter’s Church, Draycott, Saturday, 10.30am–2pm, with stalls, refreshments and a soup lunch, Sunday, 11am 2pm, with refreshments.

Harriet Sandys Christmas Fair, 2pm-5pm, unusual gifts from around the world, The Manor House Barn, West Compton BA4 4PB, also 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th and open by appointment.

Details: 01749 890582.

Sunday December 3rd Salvation Army Christmas Concert, Nailsea Methodist Church, 2.30pm, sponsored by Rotary, free tickets from PS Travel and Nailsea Music shop, collection for Nailsea Disability Initiative, free transport may be available for those with mobility disabilities.

Wells Reindeer Parade. 10.50: opening by The Mayor of Wells and the President of Wells Rotary. Parade of Santa Claus in his sleigh pulled by real reindeer at midday. Music by bands and choirs, rides and other entertainments in the Wells Market Place. Stalls selling festive foods, drinks, seasonal goods and gifts.

Tuesday December 5th Gods & Gardens: The wall paintings of Ancient Rome, by Dr Angela Smith, followed

by Christmas lunch, Bath & West Bar & Restaurant, B & W Show Ground, BA4 6QN, 11am, guests welcome. Details: www.theartssocietymendip.org.uk 01934 862435.

Taize’ chants & prayers 7.45pm in the chapel

W h a t ’ s

at The Ammerdown Centre, Radstock BA3 5SW, refreshments afterwards, please come and join us. Details: Janet 01225 869337.

Congresbury Over-60’s Club The Reflections Singers, Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.304pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Winscombe Shopping Night – see page 56.

Wednesday December 6th Families for Children Trust information session for potential adopters, 2pm-4pm, Foot Anstey offices, 2000 Blackbrook Park Ave, Taunton TA1 2PX, a specialist adoption agency and charitable trust based in the South West, rated as outstanding by Ofsted.

Congresbury Christmas Fair, 6-9pm at War Memorial Hall. Tables £5 each. Details: Irving Prowse 01934 832004.

Thursday December 7th Priddy Christmas Fayre, Priddy Village Hall, 6-9pm, join us for mulled wine, mince pies and unique gifts, local crafts & produce, entrance £1, U-16s free in aid of Priddy Pre-school.

West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 10m from Wellington Monument car park OS Map Ex128 ST13817, start 10am. Details: Carol Jackson 01934733568/07979354530 or caj7599@btinternet.com Friday December 8th The Unravelling Wilbury’s Travelling Wilbury’s tribute band, 7.30pm St Thomas’ Church, Wells, all profits to Mendip YMCA, £10 in advance. Details: 01458 210926 or 01749 671596 www.cityofwellslions.org/sales Christmas craft fair, 5-8pm at Bishop Henderson school, Coleford. BA3 5PN, Santa's grotto, bar and BBQ, stalls, festive activities, free entry.

Alzheimer’s Society Elf Day! Coffee & Festive Games morning, 10am–12noon at The Laurels Care Home, Draycott, dressing-up welcome, families, friends and the local community are very welcome to join in, Westfield Lane, BS27 3TN, 01934 742 649.

Wrington Dickensian Fair – see page 76.

Concert by Castle Cary Choir. 7.30pm, Methodist Church, North Street, Castle Cary.

An evening of Christmas songs, including some light-hearted readings relevant to the joys of Christmas. Programmes £8 on the door.

Refreshments included. Fundraising for the Methodist Church and the choir. Ffi: www.castlecarychoir.org Christmas Concert. Born to be Saints, West Gallery Singers. St. Loenard’s Church, Shipham, 7.30pm. Tickets: £5 from Jill Smith, 01934 842291, Wilcox Cider Shed or on the door.

Saturday December 9th Mendip Society walk around Winscombe, meet 1.30pm in car park behind Woodborough Inn, BS25 1HD. ST 421 576, moderate 4+ miles.

Details: John 01934 842868.

Handel's Messiah Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society accompanied by Music For Awhile

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Orchestra on period instruments. Details: Cathedral box office 01749 672 773 www.wcos.org.uk Brent Knoll Christmas Bazaar & Farmers’ Market, 10am-12.30pm, at the parish hall, local produce & crafts, refreshments available.

Somerset Plant Heritage, Edington Hall, TA7 9HA, 11am members’ plant sale, 12noon AGM, 1.15pm, bring & share Christmas lunch, 2.30pm “Christmas Swags & Decorations from Your Garden”, visitors welcome £4. Details: 01278 451631.

Christmas Fair, Ashwick Church Rooms, BA3 4BE, 10.30am-1pm in aid of St James Church, a range of stalls and Father Christmas, 11.3012.30, refreshments available.

Hutton Village Hall Christmas Market, 9am 12 noon, all welcome, free entry, teas, coffees, bacon rolls and Christmas stalls, BS24 9SN. “Gaudete, The Joy of Christmas” carols & seasonal readings, 7.30pm St Michael’s Church, Somerton, TA11 7NB, tickets £10, U18s £5, from Cobbs Wholefoods, Langport Stores or 01458 241472.

Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall, good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books.

Christmas decoration sale. Queen Square, Clevedon, 9am-1pm. In aid of Clevedon Flower Show. Raffle tickets for sale to win a Christmas hamper.

Chew Valley Christmas Fayre. Organised by Bishop Sutton Pre-School. Bishop Sutton Village Hall, BS39 5XD. 12-4pm. Crafts, gifts, decorations and lots of fun for the kids too!

Entrance is just £1 for adults and children go free. Ffi: www.bishopsuttonpreschool.org.uk/events Meet the Victorians at Radstock Museum. An afternoon of Victorian-themed crafts and activities with staff in period costume. 2-4pm.

Admission free. Ffi: www.radstockmuseum.co.uk Sunday December 10th Irish Set Dance Christmas party, 2-5.30pm, Shoscombe Village Hall, BA2 8LX, with Perfect Cure Ceilidh Band, all welcome.

Details: 07979 523918 or 01761 435204.

Corsley Festival Choir Christmas Concert.

St. Margaret’s Church, Corsley, 7.30pm.

Includes Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, Christmas Day by Holst, Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring by Bach, and a selection of traditional carols and modern Christmas songs with some audience participation. Tickets £12.50 adults, £5 children.

Monday December 11th Mendip Folk Dance Club evening to celebrate the life of Pat Shaw, St James Church Hall Winscombe, BS25 1AQ, 8pm-10pm, £3 per person, refreshments included. Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Wednesday December 13th Nailsea Horticultural Society beetle drive,

D e c e m b e r

carol singing, mince pies, mulled wine, 7.30pm, United Reformed Church Hall, Nailsea, members £2, non-members £3 includes refreshments. All very welcome.

Annual Concert Mid-Somerset branch RAFA & the City of Wells Air Cadet Squadron, with the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment in the Concert Hall, Millfield School, tickets £15 from Millfields, Street TIC & local air cadet squadrons. Details: 07986 593360.

Glastonbury Male Voice Choir Christmas concert St John’s Church, Glastonbury, 8pm.

Details: www.glastonburymalevoicechoir.co.uk Wedmore by Lamplight – see page 92.

Wells Civic Society seasonal celebration – Victorian Christmas in Wells, an evening to enjoy good company, refreshments and some light entertainment, Wells and Mendip Museum, 7.30pm.

Thursday December 14th West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 7m from 25 Horsecombe Brow, Combe Down, BA2 5QY, OS Map Ex155 ST751622, start 12.30pm, park in driveway. Details: Margaret Donkin 01373 462203 07543 696675 or margkdonkin@aol.com Friday December 15th The launch and re-launch of the SS Great Britain Camerton Community Hall winter talk,

by Ian Caskie, 7pm, £5 includes refreshments.

Saturday December 16th Sing for Somerset with the Mid Somerset Orchestra & Somerset Voices, carol service at Wells Cathedral, 7pm, doors open 6.15pm, no tickets required, in aid of Somerset Community Foundation.

Mendip Men winter concert St John’s Church Midsomer Norton, 7pm.

Mendip Society Walk, Burrington Combe, a moderate 4-mile walk with views & steep climbs, ST 476 589, meet 1.30pm in the car park at bottom of Burrington Combe nearest the A368. Details: Mary 01934 843789.

Christmas decoration sale in Queen Square, Clevedon, 9am-1pm. In aid of Clevedon Flower Show. Raffle tickets for sale to win a Christmas hamper.

Frome Society for Local Study lecture.

Professor Tim Mowl – Pleasure and the Regency Garden. The Emeritus Professor of History of Architecture and Designed Landscapes at the University of Bristol, will talk about the period between 1790-1830, during which Humphry Repton developed ‘Ornamental Gardening’. Assembly Rooms (rear of Frome Memorial Theatre) 2.30pm.

Members free, £3 visitors.

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East Pennard festive coffee morning, village hall, raffle, cakes, Christmas gifts, 10am-1pm.

Details: Anna Gifford 01749 860347.

Monday December 18th Mendip Folk Dance Club Christmas Club callers’ evening with an American supper, St James Church Hall Winscombe, BS25 1AQ, 8pm-10pm, £3 per person. Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Tuesday December 19th Congresbury Singers Christmas concert, 7.30pm, St Andrews Church, Congresbury, tickets £8 from Congresbury PO or on the door.

Thursday December 21st West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 10m from High Meadow, Clewer, BS28 4JG, OS Map Ex141 ST439510, start 10am., park in paddock off Cribb House Lane. Details: Vi Howley 07711 662993 or vihowley@me.com Friday December 22nd and Saturday December 23rd Wells Cathedral Carol Services, 6pm-7.30pm, traditional carol services with readings, please arrive in time to be seated by 5.40pm. Details: www.wellscathedral.org.uk or 01749 674483.

Sunday December 24th Wells Cathedral Crib Services a very warm welcome, especially to children, who are invited to dress as a shepherd, an angel or a king!

Details: www.wellscathedral.org.uk or 01749 674483.

Wednesday December 27th Mendip Society – Cheddar Hilly Walk a hard 5 miles, with steep climbs & views, ST 459 539, meet 10.30am outside the Gardener’s Arms, Cheddar, BS27 3LE, please park considerately on nearby streets – do not use the pub car park.

Contact: Gill 01934 742508.

Sunday December 31st New Year's Eve at Redhill Club BS40 5SG, put on your dancing shoes for a fun night, disco & party until 1am! All welcome. Details: 01934 862619.

Wednesday January 10th Wells Civic Society annual general meeting followed by The Dean of Wells, the Very Rev. Dr John Davies who will talk about the role of the dean in the city, Wells and Mendip Museum, 7.30pm.

Saturday January 20 North Cadbury Wassail. Organised by the Rotary Club of Brue Valley. Free charity event.

Starts 6pm at the Catash Inn, North Cadbury, BA22 7DH. Mummers, Morris dancing and live music. Ffi: www.bruevalleyrotary.org

MENDIP MINDBENDER ANSWERS FOR DECEMBER ACROSS: 1 Donner, 5 Santa, 7 Wishing, 8 Ivy, 9 Claus, 10 And The, 12 Saint, 14 Boxing, 16 Nativity, 17 Calendar, 18 Manger, 19 A Merry DOWN: 1 Day, 2 New Year, 3 Jingle, 4 And A, 6 Advent, 9 Christmas, 11 Nicholas, 13 Away In A, 14 Blitzen, 15, Prancer

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THIS December, The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be sharing the magic and joy of the season by hosting “Christmas at the Palace”.

The site will be decking its halls with Christmas finery – each of the medieval rooms in the palace will be decorated with a different Christmassy theme, exploring styles through the ages and bringing the outside in, with seasonal foliage and greenery from the palace gardens.

Visitors will be greeted by roaring fires, a multitude of twinkling trees and a range of family friendly activities celebrating all the fun of the festive season.

The buildings and gardens will be illuminated with colourful lighting, and a family Christmas Star Trail will lead visitors through the palace and gardens, following the stars, to end at their stunning nativity scene.

Each weekend there will be a whole host of additional events taking place – Father Christmas will be holding court in the Undercroft – there is no additional charge for this, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance.

There will be Christmas music in the chapel from a range of different local musicians and Scrooge will be reading from A Christmas Carol. Mulled wine, mince pies and children’s drinks will be on sale and there will be special family Christmas craft sessions at intervals throughout the weekends.

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So if you want that warm, festive feeling, just pull on your Christmas jumper and head down to the palace this December!

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