Issue 8 - Volume 13 - Mendip Times

Mendip Times

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Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

JANUARY 2018

WISHING YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR! Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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Welcome

AS we head into 2018, we’d like to thank our readers, contributors and advertisers for your support, which has allowed us to add even more editorial pages this year.

The more advertisers we have, the more editorial pages we can have!

Now in our 13th year, we are proud to celebrate what this unique area has to offer both with the magazine itself and with Mendip Times Online, which gives links to all the websites included in the magazine.

This month we join Christmas celebrations around the area, as well as having our usual pages devoted to local news and the work of local charities and community groups.

The Mendip Society tell us they will support plans for a new Mendip Gateway in Burrington Combe, proposed by Holt Farms, the company behind Yeo Valley, which we reported on last month. The society believes it could be a big boost for the area.

We meet the couples who are sharing their 70th wedding anniversary year with the Queen and Prince Philip and hear about new discoveries in Mendip’s caves.

We also hear how a busker from Wells is trying to pay his own way into medical school – and we’ve been told that a copy of Mendip Times is now proudly displayed at a hotel in Delhi!

With all of our regular features and contributors, may we wish you a happy and healthy new year.

February 2018 deadline: Friday, 12th January 2018.

Published: Tuesday, 23rd January 2018.

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: Seeing the funny side at Bowlish Infants School.

Photograph by Mark Adler. See page 82.

CONTENTS

16

Welcome to our café – pupils celebrate re-opening

70

Hats off to Frost Fayre – Santa’s seasonal songsters

94

82

Play time in playgrounds – bringing theatre into schools

We made these – museum keeps heritage alive Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE ..........10 Food & Drink ...............................12 Arts & Antiques ...........................20 Internet and Crossword ..............24 Business.........................................28 Charities........................................36 Education ......................................41 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......49 Walking Sue Gearing ....................50

Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........52 Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......54 Health Dr Phil Hammond .............60 Community ...................................66 Caving Phil Hendy ........................78 Music & Theatre ..........................82 Homes and Interiors ....................85 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE.....90 Sport ..............................................92 What’s On.....................................94 MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 3

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Our Services Include: Commercial and Residential Property Wills and Probate Litigation and Personal Injury Criminal and Family Law Agricultural, Business and Commercial Employment Shepton Mallet: 57 High Street, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5AQ. Tel: 01749 330330

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

First and foremost we wish all our clients, professional contacts and Mendip Times readers a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2018.

We look forward to continuing to provide high quality legal services to our clients both old and new during the coming year. We are hoping for a repeat of last year when the property market fired into action in January and remained strong all year.

You may be interested to know that Bill Bartlett is involved in the organisation of the Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society’s Wassail Evening which will be on 17th January starting on the village green at North Wootton at about 6.30 WT (Wootton Time!). The outdoor frolics and giant bonfire are free and all are welcome.

A limited number of tickets for the entertainment and ploughman’s supper and apple muffin in the Village Hall afterwards have been reserved for village residents but will disappear quickly. There is also a pay bar for fruit juices and cider. Tickets (first come first served) at £7.50 each from Bill Bartlett, telephone 01749 890248.

For the outside part, bring anything to make a noise: soccer rattles, klaxons, pots and pans to beat etc.

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

Cheddar: Bath Street Chambers, Bath Street, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3AA. Tel: 01934 745400

Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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NEWS

Busking his way to medical school

WELLS is losing one of its popular street entertainers. For many years, former Blue School student, Kevin de Lima, aged 20, has busked in penniless porch and other spots, in order to pay for his cello lessons.

Now he’s won a place at medical school in Italy – and may start busking in Bergamo or Milan to pay his way there.

Neighbour, Barbara Spencer-Jones, praises his tenacity and tells of her extraordinary links to his family.

I learned this week that the son of a neighbour, Kevin de Lima, is heading to Italy to begin his medical studies. For the past few years he has been a familiar figure in Wells busking in Penniless Porch or on the High Street and I know your readers will want to wish him well.

Certainly Wells High Street will be the poorer without the glorious sound of his cello.

It is said only six degrees of separation exists between any two people. Most likely I would have thought this an exaggeration until I met Kevin. When working as a teacher in Grenada in the West Indies in the 1970s, I consulted a dentist who fixed my front tooth.

He was a Mr Edwards, whose father had been a missionary in Ghana, Africa.

A dedicated Christian, he brought his family up with the same beliefs. After an international career spanning some 20 years, I ended up back in the UK and living in Wells.

On looking for an orthodontist for my daughter by happenstance I consulted a Mr Edwards who lived in St Thomas Street. Yes, the same Mr Thomas (Siegfried) Edwards.

There was no further contact. Another 20 years passed and I was living in South Horrington when new neighbours moved in – only Mr Edward’s daughter, Annette, her husband and family, of whom Kevin is the second son.

In a world in which so many young people have lost their way, it was a pleasure to meet up with Kevin and by talking with his mother, I have learned a little more about his ambitions and his struggles to achieve them. Despite excellent grades at A level, he didn’t achieve a place to study medicine in the UK. Determined to follow his dream, he was accepted by a university in Italy where he is heading – literally on a wing and a prayer.

Determined not to be a financial burden

on his family, he is also setting up a crowd-funding campaign to help him pay for his fees and living expenses. He will be back – and no doubt in the holidays we will see him once again busking in Wells hoping to raise enough money to continue his studies for another term.

I trust so – in our precarious world we need more like him. If you can help him in any way, or know someone who can, check his story at Just Cello on Facebook and donate at one of the following links.

Details:https://www.patreon.com/wellsbusker • https://gofundme.com/a-student-abroad

Mosaic mystery

A piece of history – the newlydiscovered mosaic in Victoria Park

COUNCIL rangers in Frome have uncovered what is thought to be a Victorian mosaic beneath a raised flower bed in Victoria Park.

The mosaic is by the bowls club and is thought to be the base for a statue or trough. Now Frome Town Council is appealing for any information about how it would have looked originally.

Councillor Rich Ackroyd said “What an exciting day at work for the rangers – if you know the history of the mosaic (and have any old photos of what was here) then we would be really interested to see them.”

The rangers are now planning to incorporate the mosaic into a revised planting scheme.

Anyone with information should contact the team on rangers@frometowncouncil.gov.uk or call in to the town hall.

Youngest winner of Turnip

MARY Hemmings, aged 12, has become the youngest ever winner of Wedmore’s famous Turnip Prize, with her entry "Pulled Pork" – a pig being pulled by a tractor.

The award, Wedmore’s take on the Turner Prize, was made in front of a packed art-loving audience, TV cameramen and photographers, who cheered when Mary, also known as Chris P Bacon, accepted the prize, a turnip mounted on a six-inch nail.

Organiser Trevor Prideaux said: “I am delighted with the lack of effort taken to create this work. I believe that over the last 19 years the artists entering The Turnip Prize have created by far better works than Alex Farquharson and The Tate Britain Gallery could ever wish to exhibit.”

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Greener and cleaner

Electric car enthusiast Thomas Exton, 13, next to the Tesla

AN electric vehicle showcase in Frome attracted owners and the interested – and saw a number of people signing up to the town council’s E-car club.

Held at the Cheese and Grain venue, the event was organised by Frome’s Missing Links and funded by the council through its participatory budgeting fund and was followed by an Electric Pedals cycle cinema screening.

The council’s ranger vehicles were there, along with the Tesla Roadster, an electric quad bike and a huge selection of electric bicycles.

Councillor Rich Ackroyd said: “Thank you to everybody who came along to the event, to those who donated to Frome's Missing Links and those who arrived in their own electric vehicles. Another step towards making Frome a greener and cleaner place to live.”

The cost of hiring one of the town council’s own electric bikes is £5 for half a day and £10 for a full day.

For details visit: www.fromesmissinglinks.org.uk or www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk

Coppicing in an historic woodland

Coppicing in Asham Wood

VOLUNTEERS are being invited to take part in a coppicing day in the ancient Asham Wood near Frome in February.

The wood – Mendip’s largest and most biodiverse ancient semi-natural woodland – is a old

Somerset Wildlife Trust site.

Training in coppicing work will be provided and it will also offer volunteers a chance to brush up on their skills. The event – on Saturday, February 24th – is free, but booking is essential.

For details, visit: http://www.somersetwildlife.org

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Target on waste

THE environment Agency has launched a crackdown on illegal waste sites, finding six in its first day of action across the region. Over the last 12 months it says it has seen an increase in illegal waste activity across Bristol, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Andy Hicklin, Environment Agency Area Environment Manager for Wessex area, said: “Waste crime is a blight on communities and the environment and undermines legitimate business.

“Acting on reports from members of the public, days of action are just the first step in tackling waste crime. We will work with our partners in local authorities and use all of the tools at our disposal to disrupt, prevent and stop illegal waste activity.”

The agency is asking members of the public to be vigilant and to contact them with information on anything suspicious.

Details: Report it anonymously to Crimestoppers www.crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555 111 or the Environment Agency incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

New leader wanted

THE Mendip Hills AONB partnership is looking for a new chair and vice-chair to lead their work for at least the next two years.

The partnership brings together organisations and interests and provides a strategic and co-ordinated lead to the protection and enhancement of the nationally designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

One of the roles may be filled by an independent individual who is not currently on the partnership. The other role must be filled by a councillor from one of the funding bodies.

Jim Hardcastle, manager of the Mendip Hills AONB said: “This is a great opportunity for someone from the partnership and someone who wants to help the Mendip Hills AONB but who isn't on the partnership to get involved.

“It's a really important time ahead for the AONB with the review of the five-year management plan, Brexit and pressure from housing development. We're looking for people with the right skills and experience backed up by a love for this nationally protected area.”

Details: www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk contact 01761 462338 or email mendip@mendiphillsaonb.org.uk

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Let’s plant

ENVIRONMENT

Hedgelaying and tractors – a traditional rural day out

Tree planting around the perimeter of the playground

AN impressive 40 volunteers from the local community came along to a community tree and bulb planting event on the Old Showfield in Frome.

Volunteers included Year 9 Duke of Edinburgh students from Frome College and a team from Lilley’s Cider, all led by the Frome Town Rangers. They helped to plant 420 saplings and 3,000 bulbs to improve the appearance of the green space.

The saplings were secured from the Woodland Trust to create a native hedge around the playground and will help to improve biodiversity in the area.

Councillor Kate Bielby, who also joined in the event, said: “Thanks very much to everyone who came along and helped out this time. It really is a nice way to get a bit of fresh air and meet new people for a chat. It’s also very satisfying to plant something you hope will grow and be enjoyed for years to come. That bank of daffodils will bring a real splash of colour to the showfield in the spring.”

THE Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society’s annual hedge laying competition takes place in February with the added bonus of a vintage tractor run.

Entries are now open for the hedgelaying competition.

Affiliated to the National Hedge Laying Society, there will be an open class for those with experience and an amateur class, for those new to the craft, as well as a special prize for the top entrant aged 60+. To encourage younger entrants, the society will again hold NHLS Awards for Young Hedgelayers. Anyone under 25 will be eligible.

Visitor are welcome to watch the competition and to admire the tractors. The event takes place on Sunday, February 18th at Tadhill House Farm, Old Wells Road, Leigh-on-Mendip by kind permission of quarry firm John Wainwright & Son Ltd. Meanwhile, Wrington and Burrington Hedging Society’s match will be held in Wrington on Saturday, January 20th.

Peter Barkwill, president of the agricultural society and chief executive of John Wainwright & Son Ltd., said: “We’re delighted to host this event. Hedgelaying is a traditional rural craft that brings huge benefits for local landscapes. It’s great to see it thriving in this part of Somerset, and we’re looking forward to welcoming competitors and spectators.”

Ian Harvey, society chairman, said: “We’re very grateful to John Wainwright & Son Ltd for allowing us to use the farm.

We’re very excited about the competition and would really like local residents to come and learn about the traditional country craft.” ● Entry is free with all entrants in the hedgelaying competition receiving £10 cutting money.

Some of the winners of last year’s Mid-Somerset competition with the then president Lady Caroline Waldegrave

For details, contact show secretary Christine Barham on 01749 938044 or secretary@midsomersetshow.org.uk

Some of the volunteers with members of the town council rangers team

To find out more about planting in Frome or plans for the open spaces managed by the council, contact Chris Stringer at: stringerc@frometowncouncil.gov.uk

Beekeeping course

WEDMORE and Cheddar beekeepers are holding a seven-week beginners’ course starting on Thursday, February 15th, 7.30pm9.30pm.

It will be held in the Old Schoolroom at Stone Allerton, BS26 2NJ and costs £20.

Details: Jonathan Friend 01934 712971 or email jpdfriend@gmail.com

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Mendip stalwarts rewarded

Pictured (l to r) Jim Hardcastle, Mendip Hills AONB manager, Dave Tranter and Councillor Liz Richardson

THE 2017 Mendip Hills AONB Volunteer of the Year award has been awarded jointly to Dave and Judith Tranter for their amazing contribution to their work.

Dave has been an AONB volunteer ranger for over 20 years but has helped young people enjoy the Mendip Hills for over 30 years. The AONB says he is a great ambassador for their work and plays a vital role welcoming new volunteers to the team.

Judith often steps in to help Dave with his AONB volunteering and together they have helped with conservation tasks, events and publicity, surveys and providing activities for the young rangers.

They have also been recognised for their wider work in the area including setting up two Mendip Society nature reserves at Slader’s Leigh and Tania’s Wood and coordinating the management and care of both sites.

Andy Mallender, AONB project development officer, said: “Dave and Judith are an amazing couple who work tirelessly to make the Mendip Hills better for everyone. They are always ready to help out and share their wisdom about the area. The environment, community and AONB Partnership are very lucky to have good people like this around.”

The award was presented to Dave at the AONB partnership meeting by vice-chair Councillor Liz Richardson.

ENVIRONMENT

Winter walks on Mendip

THIS Christmas the Mendip Hills AONB volunteer rangers are leading two guided walks so you can explore the AONB without the worry of route-planning and navigation.

The rangers also have a wealth of knowledge of the landscapes, wildlife and heritage of the Mendip Hills to share along the way.

The days between Christmas and New Year are the ideal time to get some fresh air and exercise after the seasonal excesses. But as it’s still Christmas there will be a stop for a hot drink and mince pie along the way.

The first is on Thursday December 28th to Priddy Droves, a seven-mile walk from the historic village of Priddy, following various droves (historic routes for “droving” livestock) and into Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve and Deer Leap, which is said to have the best views in Somerset.

The second, on Saturday December 30th, is a four-mile walking, taking in the ancient history of Shipham and Rowberrow, with a climb up to the Iron Age fort at Dolebury Warren and the forest of Rowberrow Warren.

The suggested donation for the walks is £4, which will go to the Mendip Hills Fund – supporting projects to conserve and enhance the environment and support communities and the economy of the Mendip Hills.

Council has a light bulb moment FROME Town Council is offering local businesses the loan of a thermal imaging camera as part of a campaign to encourage energy saving and to help the environment.

The offer was made at a recent business breakfast at Frome Town Football Club where green energy was on the agenda.

Councillor Jean Boulton said: “The council has a thermal imaging camera you can borrow which shows where you have draughts and lose heat. We also have a box of LEDs so you can see which style would work for you – they save so much energy.”

Anna Francis, the council’s resilience manager who led the event, said: “Saving energy reduces pollution and improves our environment. And we urgently need to cut down on energy and associated carbon emissions to ensure that global temperatures stay within safe levels. The good news is saving energy also saves money, and creates good corporate social responsibility.”

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Details: http://www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk/events/

Anna demonstrating the town council’s thermal imaging camera and LED kit at the breakfast

● The next business breakfast will be on Tuesday, February 6th.

For more information contact Anna on: francisa@frometowncouncil.gov.uk

(Photo courtesy of Mendip Hills AONB Unit)

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Diversification means return to horses FIRST, congratulations to Tim Latter of Bristol, Anna Keedwell from Regil and Debbie Sluijmers from Mendip for taking first, second and third in the North Somerset class at the National Hedge Laying competition held at Sandringham on December 1st. They had the pleasure of With MARY chatting to Prince Charles as well.

JAMES MBE With more and more smaller farms finding new diversifications let me tell you about one that has always had a thriving enterprise which in itself has changed and expanded over the years.

It all began in Blagdon when, in 1911, Jacob Lyons developed a carrier business using horses and also had a small shop which sold everything “just like Woolworths”. The business moved to Mendip Garage in 1925.

When Jacob’s son, Olly, took over there were motorised charabancs. A charabanc was basically a lorry with seats, which sometimes had a roof! The charabancs were taking people to all the local beauty spots. A trip to Weston was a real treat.

Evidently Olly took a party to the White City in a charabanc, where he was fined for breaking the speed limit of 12 miles an hour. But the charabancs changed to coaches and as the number of coaches increased the next generation, Terry and Joan Lyons, were taking over.

The Blagdon Lioness coaches were well known and when Terry and Joan’s son Mike was old enough he too was driving.

Mike remembers the miners’ strike vividly when coaches were constantly on the move back and forth to Grantham with police officers on board.

The farm side of things crept in gradually with 10 acres acquired behind the garage and a further 50 acres nearby. Terry and Joan kept pigs and chicken on site and cattle on the outlying acres but there was never enough revenue from the farm side so the coaches kept going but as with all enterprises changes had to be made.

FARMING

The last coach in 2011 (l to r) Mike Lyons, Nicky Lyons, Terry and Joan, Becky and Vicky

There were so many rules and regulations and paperwork to contend with that the final coach went in 2011. Mike, his wife Nicky and daughters Becky and Vicky, always had horses so perhaps it was not surprising that before the last coaches went their thoughts turned to horses and carriages. History repeating itself.

The family took a cob to Barry Hook in Hampshire to be trained to pull a cart, but whilst they were there they saw two beautiful black Friesian stallions – and they were hooked! Two more stallions were purchased a little later. Barry trained the horses and taught all the family to drive.

When all was ready Nicky “cold called” every funeral director in a large area and the business started, but needless to say there are rules and regulations. Funeral carriages can only be booked through a funeral director. Wedding orders are taken direct. See their website, Blagdon Horse Drawn Carriages.

The hard work involved to get these horses and carriages ready is incredible but this is not just on an event day, the horses are very well cared for every day. Becky says it can be a 3am start on an event day.

All the hard work is rewarded as soon as these lovely stallions, so beautifully turned out, take to the road.

Happy New Year everyone including our Mendip Times staff.

A celebration of tractors – raising money for charities

THE 2018 Somerset Vintage and Classic Tractor Show will feature a special celebration of the iconic John Deere marque – amongst the 200 tractors and farming machinery on show.

The majority of the tractors and trade stands will be under cover in three buildings at the Royal Bath and West Showground at ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOWGROUND BA4 6QN Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th January 2018

INDOOR STATIC TRACTOR SHOW Special Feature: John Deere

Tractors, implements, trade stands, toys, models & books etc.

AUCTION: Sat 27th January by HJ Pugh & Co., Ledbury.

Raising money for local charities Entrance: Adults £8, OAP’s £6 & Children £4 Sat: 9am-4pm & Sun 9am-3.30pm

Contact: Nick 01749 860514 or Mike 07976 535762 www.somersettractorshow.com

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Shepton Mallet, on Saturday, January 27th and Sunday, January 28th.

Models on show will range from the early 20th Century to the latest models used on farms today. Organisers are planning a display of John Deere tractors from the early twin cylinder machines through to the huge new green giants popular with farmers today.

Many other makes will also be on display, including David Browns, Fergusons, Massey Fergusons, Fordsons, Fords and Field Marshalls, many with implements attached. Also on display will be many smaller horticultural tractors and machines that were used in market gardens and orchards.

Trade stands will be offering thousands of tractor spares, tools, books, clothing, model tractors and toys for sale. The popular auction of vintage and classic tractors, implements, engines and related items is being held on the Saturday, by HJ Pugh & Co. of Ledbury.

Proceeds from the weekend will again be donated to local charities; at the 2017 show, organisers donated more than £8,000, including £4,000 to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

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Feed your inner Scot

Celebrate with salmon

BETWEEN now and the end of January we can all discover a little bit of tartan in our souls, what with Hogmanay and then Burns Night. Start the day with porridge and end it with a With JUNE fine malt and in between MACFARLANE celebrate the battered but still intact union between our two great nations with some fine food.

INGREDIENTS

(For four) 320g puff pastry sheet 110g butter at room temperature 4 pieces stem ginger in syrup, finely chopped 2 tbsp currants 500g fillet of salmon, midsection, skinned and pin-boned 1 egg, beaten salt and pepper

SALMON IN PUFF PASTRY WITH STEM GINGER AND CURRANTS

One of the all-time great pie recipes, dating back to at least the 17th century, and a treat for lovers of salmon.

METHOD Cut up butter and mix with ginger and currants. Cut salmon in half lengthways.

Season one half with salt and pepper, spread the butter mixture over. Cover with the other piece of salmon, top to tail to make a neat sandwich. Season. Unwrap pastry and place on baking paper on a baking tray. Set salmon on one end, leaving a 3cm edge. Brush edges with egg and fold over the rest of the pastry, pressing to seal. Rest in fridge for 30 minutes. Pre-heat oven to 220°C. Brush pastry with beaten egg and bake for 20 mins until golden. Allow to rest for ten mins before serving.

OATMEAL SHORTBREAD 225g plain flour 100g oatmeal ½ tsp baking powder 225g butter, in pieces 100g caster sugar

INGREDIENTS

Good to have a batch of this around for First Footers, or just for you. The wee dram is optional.

METHOD Grease a baking tray and line with parchment. In a food processor whiz the first three ingredients briefly. Add the butter and sugar and pulse until the mixture starts to clump. Turn into the tray and flatten to fill it. Refrigerate for 30 mins. Preheat oven to 160°C/140°C fan. Bake for 35 mins. Dust with sugar. Allow to cool completely then cut into fingers.

Raise a wee dram to this shortbread

INGREDIENTS

(For four) 75g pinhead oatmeal 300g raspberries 300g soft cheese 280ml whipping cream 4 tbsp honey, plus a little extra to drizzle 2 tbsp whisky

CRANACHAN

A favourite for New Year’s Eve and a delight at any time. Use fresh or frozen raspberries and crowdie cheese if you can get it.

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METHOD Toast the oats by tossing in a dry pan until just brown. Cool on a plate. Whip the cream until floppy and mix with the cheese.

Stir in the honey and whisky. Layer the cream, oats and raspberries into glasses, finishing with a few raspberries and a drizzle of honey.

Cranachan – delicious at any time of the year

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FOOD & DRINK

A round-up of events from Thatchers Cider in Sandford

THERE’S nothing more quintessential than serving the West Country’s best loved produce side by side – the perfect pairing of cider and cheese. Cider has great year-round appeal, so how better to brighten up your January than with a characterful cheeseboard and perfect cider matches.

With the versatility of cider, from light and refreshing styles through to more complex, rounded ciders, its fruitiness means there’s a cheese that will pair perfectly. We hope these suggestions will guide you on your way – think about the textures, and how your pairings will complement and contrast with each other.

Thanks to Guy Harrop for the photo which first appeared in Food Magazine.

• The tannins in rounded, oak aged ciders stand up well to stronger flavoured cheeses. Try Thatchers Vintage with smoked cheeses.

• Sweeter drinks work well with blue cheese – try Thatchers Haze here.

• The natural acidity in cider provides refreshing, mouth-watering qualities. Try a crisp single variety Katy cider with goats cheese.

• Thatchers Gold is a perfect match with a farmhouse cheddar, its carbonation cutting through the cheese, cleansing the palate ready for the next bite.

• Creamy cheeses can also work well with cider – try a fruity cider such as Thatchers Old Rascal.

Talking careers

JUST before Christmas we were delighted to be invited to talk to sixth form students at Chew Valley School about the careers opportunities that we have here at Myrtle Farm. Opportunities for sixth form leavers and graduates are varied, and the students heard from members of our marketing, engineering and cidermaking teams about life at Myrtle Farm. Look out for more news on our website about jobs and careers.

January is Wassail time

JANUARY is Wassail month – a weird and wonderful event that is one of the most colourful occasions in the cidermaking year. The traditional ceremony originated back in Anglo Saxon times, awakening the apple trees at the beginning of the year, and warding off any lurking evil spirits to ensure a good harvest.

Cider soaked toast hung in the trees to attract the robins, or good spirits, sticks used to bang against the tree to start the sap rising, and of course the Wassailing cup filled with cider.

These and many more traditions go to make a fun-filled evening.

The Mendip Morris Men will be leading the ceremony at The Railway Inn’s event on Wednesday 17th January 2018.

January sale

THERE’LL be some special January offers in our Cider Shop during January – pop in and see us!

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

ENDIP TIMES JANUARY 2017 2018 • PAGE 13 MM ENDIP TIMES • N• OVEMBER

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New food and drink award from Bath & West Society THE Bath & West Society has announced it plans to mark the opening of its new Rural Enterprise Centre in January by teaming up with Thatchers Cider to introduce a new award for up-and-coming food and drink producers.

The award will offer one regional food or drink producer at the start of their business

J A N U A R Y D AT E S A l l m a r k e t s 9 a m -1 p m u n l e s s o t h e r w i s e m a r k e d *

SAT 13th Keynsham and Frome (C&G Market Hall) SAT 20th Crewkerne FRI 26th Burnham-on-Sea FRI 27th Glastonbury* (9am-2pm) DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MARKET – DATE CHANGE SAT 23rd Glastonbury* (9am-2pm)

journey the opportunity to spend time with Martin Thatcher at the home of Thatchers Cider at Myrtle Farm, Sandford.

The award recipient will receive unique insight into how Thatchers Cider has developed and what has led to its recent growth, direct from Martin – the fourth generation of his family to head the company.

Rupert Cox, CEO of the Bath & West, said: “Somerset and the surrounding counties are known for their exceptional food and drink credentials and we want to encourage and support emerging businesses within the sector.”

Martin Thatcher said: “Throughout my time in business I’ve been lucky enough to receive valuable

support and advice – and quite often it’s the little things that count the most. We’re very privileged to live and work in a region that has fostered some fantastic food and drink companies, and amazing talent keeps emerging.”

Work is well underway at the

Rural Enterprise Centre, with the doors due to open in January 2018. The society’s former office building at the Bath and West Showground is currently undergoing a £520k refurbishment, transforming it into a cutting edge Rural Enterprise Centre.

Details: http://bathandwestinnovation.com/rural-enterprise-centre/rural-enterprisecentre-food-and-drink-award

Food for thought

A Somerset tradition: Elsa and Morgan with James Cumming, from Fenny Castle Vineyard, and Rob Sweetman, from Somerset Local Food Direct

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

TWO business studies students from France were the guests of Somerset Farmers’ Markets and Somerset Local Food Direct as part of an exchange visit involving Strode College.

Morgan Bride and Elsa Teixeira, who study near Paris, met traders and the team behind the food delivery service, which began in 2002 as a community benefit society.

On a visit to the weekly Wells farmers’ market, Morgan said: “Markets are held more frequently at home, every Friday and Sunday. People use them more.”

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GARDEN FOOD

Honey wholemeal cake

THERE'S not much to note in the garden this month, so I thought I'd share with you a recipe I've been working on for a while now that I'm really quite happy with.

It's adapted from a recipe in With JAKE River Cottage Everyday, but WHITSON while that one uses half almond flour to wholemeal, I'm using all wholemeal, to make it an altogether thriftier enterprise. I've also substantially reduced the sugar, and I don't feel like it is any the worse for it.

A quick note on the flour – brown flour, in my experience, does not store well. Even a couple of months in the cupboard sees some rancid notes start to creep in – in the old days grain was stored whole and ground closer to the time it was used.

I highly recommend storing your flour in the freezer, especially if you don't get through it very quickly – you'll notice the difference, I promise!

Now, to the cake – first beat 200g softened butter with 100g sugar until pale and creamy, then beat in two eggs, one at a time, adding a spoonful of your brown flour with each. Then add 200g brown flour (minus the aforementioned spoonfuls) mixed with two teaspoons baking powder, and fold into the mixture, adding a drop of milk if necessary to get a dropping consistency.

Pour into a buttered cake tin and bake at 175ºC for around 30 minutes. Once it’s out, prick the surface all over with a fork and spread over a couple of teaspoons of honey. With a nice stone ground brown flour this cake has a lovely crunchy texture, and is great hot or cold with some cream or glass of milk.

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

Reindeer like ’em!

ONCE Santa has hung up his boots for the year and packed away the sleigh ready for another Christmas (duly serviced with any needed repairs carried out) Rudolph and his team of reindeer get a well-earned rest. They are turned out into the forests of Lapland, where they can rest and recuperate eating plenty of lovely foods found in the forest.

With ADRIAN During a trip to the boreal forests of Sweden, I had BOOTS many different types of wild food pointed out to me such as berries and grubs living in dead tree bark and edible lichens.

Now there is no two ways about it, many other countries speak English better than we do (it’s amazing how our culture and language has influenced the rest of the world) but even so with a bit of an accent and due to my excitement at being out on the land, I did mistake what I had been told.

For a while I thought that my Swedish friend had really got colloquial English down to pat with the words “reindeer like ’em!” Then the penny dropped. Ah-hah now I understand, the mass we were looking at on the forest floor was actually called “Reindeer Lichen!”

Reindeer Lichen (Cladonia rangiferina) is fruticose lichen meaning it resembles a coral-like structure. The lichen is formed from a collection of fungi and algae living in a symbiotic relationship. Up to 10cm tall, it has many branches with a grayish, whitish or greenish grey colours and forms extensive mats on the boreal pine forest floor. It’s actually called “Renlav” in Swedish which reindeer really do like and just happens to be useful for us too. A flavoured spirit is made from it which the Swedes call “akavit” similar to the Latin “aquavit” meaning water of life. The spirit is infused with dill and caraway along with the reindeer lichen. I didn’t actually get to try any of the drink more’s the pity, but I did try the lichen raw.

So back to the forest, my friend proffered some rather fausty looking lichen. After some words of encouragement I took a piece and gave it a good chew and chew is the operative word. In its raw un-processed form the Reindeer Lichen has a dry, woody texture and a dry woody flavour.

You would only eat it if you had to and probably not through choice.

Apparently the acids in the lichen (digestible by the reindeer of course) can cause stomach upsets if uncooked. Great! Clearly reindeer are better equipped to eat this stuff than we are. Needless to say all was well and I survived to tell the tall tale.

I really loved my time in the forest of Sweden and can’t wait to return.

So here’s to another year full of tasty surprises and new adventures for everyone. Happy New Year!

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

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 15

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FOOD & DRINK

Training café inspires students

A TRAINING café in Westfield for post-16 students with special education needs has re-opened after being refurbished with the help of the local community.

Now called Longfellow’s – after the American poet and the road on which it is based – the café is based on the Fosse Way School campus.

Around 30 students, mostly aged 16+, work at various times in the café, from preparing meals to serving customers, including staff, visitors and the public.

The project is part of the school’s Enterprise initiative, which also saw students making Christmas gifts to sell at the opening.

Local builders’ merchants and other The café is popular with Westfield residents

Emily Massey cuts the ribbon to reopen the café, as catering manager Debbie Lockley and pupils applaud

businesses donated materials for the refurbishment, the first since the café opened eight years ago.

Executive head teacher Emily Massey

said: “We are very much part of the community and we are delighted to welcome everyone here and into our school.”

Younger students welcome guests with some festive songs

Some of the enterprise students with their festive crafts PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

The mince pies are a big hit

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Lighting up Westfield

Time for a final carol

RESIDENTS of Westfield turned out in force for the annual switch-on of the community’s Christmas lights.

Local schoolchildren led the carol singing by the tree on the corner of Elm Tree Avenue and pupils from nearby Fosse Way School – which caters for children who find life difficult in mainstream schools – joined in the switch-on itself.

Canine carolling – Barney the terrier with owner Samantha Higgs

Pupils from Westfield primary school

Santa specials

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

The big switch-on

MIDSOMER Norton Railway celebrated the 90th birthday of its resident steam loco Joyce with a party cake. Pictured are owner and driver Andy Chapman, local councillor Gordon Mackay and Father Christmas and two of his helpers.

It’s also been running its Santa Specials with visitors paying a visit to Father Christmas's grotto before setting off on a rail journey along the line.

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Master and apprentice

Roger and Arthur. Roger is holding a British Geological Survey map of Wells and West Mendip and Arthur a fine example of a limestone fossil

FORMER geology teacher Roger Freeman has teamed up with one of his former students to pursue a shared passion for fossils and rare stones.

Roger, who taught at Wells Blue School, and Arthur Blight-Mason, were amongst the stallholders at the Christmas artisan market at Browne’s Garden Centre in Wells.

Stallholders sharing a joke

Craft enthusiasts Ann Brown and Patricia Ardron

PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Records broken in 2017

IT has been a record-breaking year for Clevedon Salerooms starting when the March Specialist Sale broke the record for the highest sale total for one of the firm’s quarterly specialist sales. The sale included a consignment of furniture and decorative items originally at Ston Easton Park.

Two weeks later yet another record was broken with the highest sale total achieved at one of the regular antiques and interiors sales. Every lot sold at Clevedon is illustrated and offered with live internet bidding which has pushed prices ever higher with successful bidders located around the globe.

Amongst the items sold from Ston Easton were a fine set of six Georgian walnut hall chairs bearing the Hippisley Family crest that achieved £15,500. At the same sale from the home of a collector from Wells was a pair of 18th/19th century polychrome decorated wooden urns depicting classical maidens.

These found a new home for £10,500.

The demand for Chinese works of art, whilst more selective than before, remains buoyant with the finest items commanding impressive figures. A pair of delicate Chinese lanterns sold to a Beijing-based bidder alerted to them via the internet for £25,500. The pair of 19th century nodding figures sold to a London bidder for £5,950 who out-bid a mainland Chinese internet bidder.

Watches remain one of the most buoyant markets at auction and have become a speciality at Clevedon. Collectors seek in particular gentlemen’s stainless steel cased models from the post-war period by names such as Rolex, Omega, Breitling to mention but a few. In June, Clevedon Salerooms sold a Heuer Autavia chronograph watch dial and stainless case, no movement, glass or strap for £7,400.

There has never been a better time to look through that bedside table drawer for those old watches and bring them along for a free valuation.

Clevedon Salerooms have a full calendar of sales planned for 2018 and will be strengthening the valuation team in the spring with a new appointment. The successful specialist watch and jewellery valuation days will be held at various locations throughout the year.

See the salerooms’ website and press for details. If you have items you may be thinking of selling, why not take them to one of the salerooms’ free valuation days or email images to info@csrauctions.com

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ARTS & ANTIQUES

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

Highlights of

2017

George VI’s Dress Jacket

Sold for £7,150

Chippendale design Chair

Sold for £11,400

Rolex Explorer Ref:1610

Sold for £8,650

Pair of Chinese lanterns

Sold for £25,000

Ramsden & Carr Arts & Crafts silver box and cover

Sold for £3,450

Whieldon Pottery Arbour

Sold for £6,350

Pair of Victorian Archaeological Revival Earrings

Sold for £5,200

Attributed to Francis Wheatley – Oil on canvas – The Wolfe Family

Sold for £9,900

11/2 inch Scale Allchin Steam Traction engine

Sold for £2,700

Next Sale: Antiques, Interiors, Collectables & Jewellery – Thursday 11th January at 10.30am Next Free Valuation Days: 2nd 15th 16th 29th 30th January 9.30 -1pm and 2pm – 5pm Free Jewellery & Watch Valuation Day: Friday 16th February at the Salerooms 10am – 4pm

Tel: 01934 830111 or 0117 325 6789

The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT

www.clevedon-salerooms.com

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 21

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Oriental buyers in sharp form at Mendip IT is certainly getting busier at the Mendip Auction Rooms these days with the Killens’ team now staging three sales each month and a recognisable increase in lots and quality on offer.

On one of the coldest days of the winter, the heat was certainly turned up at the monthly sale of Antiques & Collectables held on December 9th with over 800 lots on offer. Those attending were able to nestle down in a warm environment to enjoy the bidding and this came in abundance for all lots on offer.

The keenest bidding was seen for a 19th century Japanese Katana sword with exceptional bidding over the internet and three telephone bidders in pursuit. It was eventually sold to a buyer

CHARLES JARVIS LTD Bespoke shepherd’s huts • Guest accommodation • office space • somewhere to relax

1, Madbrook Farm, Chalford, Westbury, Wiltshire BA13 3RB Telephone – 01373 858241 • Email – kim@charlesjarvisltd.co.uk

PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

from Taiwan for £5,600.

Jewellery is always attracted to the Mendip Auction Rooms and this, in turn, attracts a good number of buyers seeking jewellery, silver and gold with good prices being achieved. A very attractive pair of silver cartridges generated a number of telephone bids and after some fierce bidding achieved £2,300.

A late Victorian 18-carat gold graduated curb link watch chain made £2,200, a rose gold hollow curb bracelet £470 and a 22-carat gold 25th Anniversary of Dunkirk commemorative medal £440.

There was a very large entry of paintings and pictures entered ranging with fine masters to contemporary art. An 18th century continental portrait of Louis XIV achieved £2,000 with other pictures selling to advantage including a contemporary street scene of Wigan by James Isherwood FRSA FIAL achieving £650, a pair of 18th century continental oil on panels of horses £480 and a limited edition photograph of Twiggy £420.

The team at the auction rooms will be staging a valuation morning on Wednesday January 4th, 10am-1pm, at the offices of Killens in Sadler Street, Wells so do go along and take advantage of their expertise. Otherwise, valuers are on hand every weekday morning to accept entries or are happy to undertake free home visits.

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Peter’s Paulton date

Peter Yeates was joined by great-grandson Cameron and Anne Lyons, chairman of Paulton Parish Council for the switch-on

THE organiser of the annual Double Hills Arnhem memorial service was the guest of honour at the switching on of Paulton’s Christmas lights.

Peter Yeates – helped by great-grandson Cameron – threw the switch to illuminate the tree by the village’s war memorial garden.

Stalls, festive stories in the Hub and a community carol singalong were all part of the entertainment.

Members of Paulton Amateur Dramatic Society on their stall to promote Jack and the Beanstalk, being staged at Paulton Rovers football ground on Friday, February 9th and Saturday, February 10th. Find details on Facebook

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Christmas in Blagdon

Abi, Tilly, Father Christmas, Bea and Ruby

DESPITE a bitterly cold morning, St Andrew's Christmas Fayre in Blagdon Village Club was well supported and raised £852 for church funds. Organiser, Penny Crawford, said: “Father Christmas was kept busy chatting to the children and giving each a small gift. It was a very enjoyable morning.”

Kitty, Elsa and Megan enjoying tea and cakes

Joining in the carols

Yvonne Sandercock, Mary Mead, Jane Venner-Pack and Sue Edney, who were organising the raffle

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 23

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INTERNET

January shopping

I HOPE you all have a wonderful Christmas surrounded by people you love, fun and laughter. And a few presents as well!

Christmas can be a wonderful time, but it's also the season of the dodgy snowman jumper, the paperback you read when it was out in hardback, the perfume you are allergic to, the ill-fitting underwear etc… But can you take these AGAIN! back to where they came from?

Money Saving Expert is full of good hints and tips, (https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/deals/january-sales) and so a good place to start.

All the info in last month’s issue should still apply – buying on the high street is not quite the same as buying online, where you have 14 days to change your mind. The same often applies on the high street too, but they don’t have to give an exchange if you simply change your mind. Some big shops will change goods with a receipt up to 15th January. But if bought with a card they will only refund to the same card, which could be tricky if it’s a gift!

Many (if not all) insist that goods are returned in their original packaging and most stores will not allow you to return certain items, such as perishable goods or earrings. Often, they give “gift receipts” so you can change something without knowing the cost. (quite useful for the giver if you have bought something in the sales and hope the receiver never finds out!)

If goods were dispatched directly to you, you can often use the dispatch note as proof of purchase and can get a refund on this basis, depending on the retailer's terms and conditions.

But if you don’t have a receipt you don’t have many options.

Some big shops might do a swap, but they don’t have to, and only at the current price – e.g. sale price, not purchase price.

However, if it’s faulty, you can return it without a receipt and you still have the right to a refund as long as it’s within 30 days.

Alternatively, you have six months in which to take the item to the retailer to be repaired. If that is unsuccessful, you are entitled to a full or partial refund.

But this only applies to the person who bought the item, so you may need to ask them to return it for you.

The only other alternatives for an unwanted gift (as long as the giver doesn’t find out!) is to re-gift or give to your local fundraising event or a charity shop, so at least someone will get the benefit. Then you can tackle the January Sales with a clear conscience (?).

Contact us at I.T. for the Terrified : 01934 741751 (usually goes to answer phone) www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com Appointments are essential and cost £20 for a two-hour session.

Registered Charity No. 1130308 : Company No. 06779600. I.T. for the Terrified – for alll your computer training needs. A skillsharing, community project. Run by a Committee – Staffed by Volunteers.

This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer.

For more in depth information, please contact us. We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you. We can cover a range of subjects – including absolute basics; photo management; shopping online; emailing; Word processing, spreadsheets; basic web design; etc. on a range of devices, including Windows: Macs: Tablets: iPads: smartphones.

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 2 See 14 across 3 Village and civil parish, 7 miles from Nether Stowey (9) 4 Village lying under the northern slopes of the Mendip Hills within the Chew Valley (5) 5 & 1D TV newsreader and personality whose family home was in Dinder (5,10) 7 See 9 across 9 Hamlet on the A37 road to Shepton Mallet (8,5) 11 Mendip village and former railway station on the Somerset & Dorset line (7) 12 Electoral ward and civil parish situated near Taunton (5) 14 & 2A A 33m cave in Burrington Combe discovered in 1983 (7,3) 17 See 8 down 19 The Mendip Hills AONB and Somerset County Council’s outdoor education centre near Blagdon (12)

DOWN 1 See 5 across 2 Mendip village 4 miles south west of Shepton Mallet (5) 3 As a judge? (5) 6 See 18 down 8 & 17A Created in the mid90s, a wetland near Glastonbury (3,4) 9 Christopher ________, English actor who spent his childhood in Bowlish.

Died in 2010 (8) 10 See 16 down 13 A limestone cave discovered in 1944 above Burrington Combe (4,3) 15 International service organisation supporting good causes and found across Somerset and around the world (6) 16 & 10D 14th century knight and builder of Nunney Castle (4,8) 18 & 6D ____ ____ Mogg, Bristol-born former editor of The Times and resident of Cameley (4,4)

Answers on page 97

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Carols by laserlight

Paul Myers, the mayor of Midsomer Norton, was joined by Karen Walker, deputy leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, for the switch-on, performed by Lottie Mayes and Bertie Hanson, their parents and the Rev. Stephen Robinson

MIDSOMER Norton Methodist Church was illuminated by laser lights as part of the town’s Christmas lights celebrations.

Inside, the church was packed for a carol service and nativity play, which starred a real baby.

Stalls – including Santa’s grotto – filled the Hollies Garden where the switch-on of the lights took place.

A scene from the nativity play

C h ri s t ma s Fa i r

THE PTA at St John's Primary School in Midsomer Norton held a successful Christmas Fair, with the school choir providing seasonal music.

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Chloe and Sophia and their mum meet Father Christmas with one of his elves The Methodist church was illuminated for the night

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Marquee Staff

One full time vacancy Summer staff (ideal for students)

To work in a small team, later running your own team. Erecting marquees, installing furnishings. Must enjoy working outside, around the local area.

Help make someones’ event special.

No experience required, will be trained.

Pay £7–£11 per hour Monday – Friday 8.30- 5.30.

Must have own transport to drive to work.

CV to Jeremy Griffin, JG Marquees, Nettwood Farm, East Harptree, Bristol, BS40 6DA. Tel: 01761 221366 email info@jgmarquees.co.uk

A local hero

MANY people will remember Cheddar local, Steve Sayer, who took on Sedgemoor Council who wanted him to remove his sign advertising horse manure! He’s now 24 and owns Woodpecker Services Cheddar Ltd, operates from sites in Cheddar and Churchill, employs a small team and simply loves what he does with a passion!

Order Team Job Opportunity – Warm Glass UK, Wrington Compe

ve salary and excellent benefits offered

This is an exci ng opportunity for a bright, hardworking and enthusias c person to join the Order Processing Team within this crea ve & highly regarded online retailer.

The successful candidate will be required to pick & pack orders and prepare products for sale so needs to be physically fit and ac ve.

Please contact info@warm-glass.co.uk with your CV by Friday 5th January 2018

P & C Logs C al l P h i l o n 0 7 7 3 4 0 9 8 3 2 3 , o r C o l l ee n o n 0 7 7 8 5 2 5 0 0 3 3 o r o n E v e n in g s 0 1 9 3 4 7 4 1 9 4 1 Friendly prompt service from Phil & Colleen at their farm in Charterhouse Quality seasoned beech and ash hardwood, chopped and split into a variety of load options (with free delivery).

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

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Simple or taxing?

DID you know that there is a government department called the Office of Tax Simplification? Those of you owning or running a business probably think that it must be the office with a Gone Fishing sign permanently on the door when you see the ever-increasing amount of red tape, bureaucracy and complexity involved in running your business.

Just as you become familiar with one new piece of legislation, along comes another to take up your time and energy when all you want to do is get on with running your business.

As accountants, we stay on top of the latest changes to tax and general business rules and regulations, keeping our knowledge up to date with regular training, seminars and technical updates.

On December 1st, a technical update arrived in my inbox that made me think that it must be April 1st rather than December.

The update was suggesting businesses should keep a “Bribery Register” to log any small Christmas gifts given to suppliers or customers that might potentially be considered as bribes under the Bribery Act 2010. Has the world gone mad?! Or is it just another sign of how carefully we need to tread these days?

Will Santa be adding a bribery register to his “naughty or nice” list next year? Underwood Lamb have been advising businesses in the Chew Valley for almost 60 years.

Rod Podger, Underwood Lamb Details: Rod Podger can be contacted on 01275 332612 or via the website www.ulco.com

BUSINESS LECATCHER MO

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

CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY

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

Tel 01761 451787

www.cameleylodgelaundry.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 29

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BUSINESS

Dream Doors wins award

DREAM Doors in Congresbury, part of the UK’s largest kitchen makeover retail network, has been awarded the Performance Award at the 2017 Dream Doors annual conference.

The showroom in Congresbury is owned by Colin and Camilla who were praised for their friendly and welcoming attitude as well as their considerable kitchen expertise.

Director of Operations, Ed Brewer, said: “Colin and Camilla are known for making business decisions with their heart rather than their head, yet another testament to their generosity. The two are incredibly hardworking and universally loved by their customers. Dream Doors North Somerset truly deserves this award.”

Dream Doors is the UK’s leading replacement kitchen door franchise, offering made-to-measure replacement kitchen doors and worktops. Colin and Camilla are encouraging anyone that’s interested in a kitchen facelift or complete new kitchen to get in contact for a chat. Their showroom is at 5, The Precinct, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, BS49 5JG. Details: 01934832361 www.dreamdoors.co.uk www.checkatrade.com

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.

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

PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

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NEWS

Traffic campaign unites village

ROAD safety campaigners in Nunney have won the support of Somerton and Frome MP David Warburton in their efforts to have a 20mph speed limit imposed throughout the village.

The MP visited Nunney Pre-School to hear their concerns about traffic in the village posing a danger to very young children during their school day. The pre-school provides care and education for children aged between two and five years old and is managed by a voluntary committee which consists of parents of the children attending the school.

David was invited by Nunney Pre-School leader Jeanette Steinbeck, who, together with her deputy Natalie Dunford and a group of pre-school children, accompanied him on a walk from the school to the centre of the village which is currently running a “Twenty is Plenty” campaign.

David said: “I’m very glad to lend my support to Nunney PreSchool to help raise awareness of the traffic issue in the village.

During their school day, very young children are walking from the pre-school to the playground, to the church and to visit the residential care-home, often along narrow roads without

Message from India

David with Nunney Pre-School leader, Jeanette Steinbeck, and children from the pre-school

pavements. I can appreciate the dangers which the children face from cars passing at dangerous speeds, and many of them are quite fearful.

“I’m in touch with Nunney Parish Council and also Somerset County Council’s highways division to see what can be done to improve road safety in Nunney and protect the children from dangerous and speeding traffic.”

BACK in October we reported how Peter and Jane Clouting’s trip to India had led them by chance to meet the colonel who had served with Jane’s late father, George Pearson, in the Bengal Sappers and Miners back in the 1940s.

As Peter tells us the story doesn’t end there: “We received comments and correspondence and news of yet another remarkable coincidence.

“An acquaintance phoned to say they had seen the article and were planning to visit India shortly and by amazing coincidence would be staying at the Colonel’s Retreat, the location of our initial meeting with Colonel Khanna, and would take with them a copy of the Mendip Times.

“The article was well received and the publication is probably resting on a Jane pictured with Colonel Khanna coffee table in the hotel right now. I thought you might be interested to hear about your increasingly worldwide distribution and developing readership.”

A letter to them from the hotel in Delhi said: “Your article was read with avid interest replete with reminiscence and nostalgia.”

Mendip Times now has a large worldwide audience through its website at www.mendiptimes.co.uk

Snowdrop assembly at village school ORGANISERS of the Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival visited Croscombe CofE Primary School as the countdown to the 2018 celebration continues.

Dominic Weston, from the festival committee, told the youngsters about James Allen, the Victorian snowdrop breeder celebrated by the festival, who lived all his life in Shepton Mallet. He had the largest collection of snowdrops in the country at the time and bred some very special varieties of his own.

The children heard how much a snowdrop bulb can cost today – from as little as 8p for the ordinary ones to as much as £1,300 per bulb for the very rarest ones.

The festival is running a poetry competition and a photography competition which the children were invited to enter.

Dominic said: “The children were a very attentive audience and asked some good questions. We hope they will get involved

PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Children from Croscombe school, with their teachers and Dominic wearing a snowdrop hat

in the festival through poems and photos, and we look forward to seeing them at the Children’s Fancy Dress Parade on the Saturday of the festival, February 17th.

“The theme of the parade will be ‘The Secret Garden’ and all children are invited to dress up as plants, or bugs, or even flowerpots!”

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

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Angels all around

INDIVIDUALS, businesses and community groups have filled All Saints Church in Castle Cary with a host of angels as part of a festive festival.

A total of 60 exhibits are on show until Friday, January 6th to mark the launch of the church’s development fund to repair the exterior of the building and to make the inside space more flexible for community use.

The launch coincided with the switching on of the Christmas decorations outside the historic Market House in Castle Cary, ahead of the town’s Christmas celebrations.

Angelic upstarts? More like some naughty elves celebrating a birthday

This display is by Patsy Diamond and Hilary Dunford

Anna Branson and Penny Steiner pose with youngsters and a special guest outside the Market House PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Eli and Heidi

Angels of many designs will enchant visitors to All Saints Church All Saints Church illuminated at the launch

This display above the altar is by Churches Together

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Cheddar Festive Night

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Father Christmas made an appearance

Moor Harmony in full voice

Cheddar Youth Club members

Kings of Wessex pupils taking part in Rotary's Big Pitch challenge

Holly Gray and Rob Thomas raised funds for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

Members of STARR performing at the Riverside

Archie Waymouth and Thomas Burke with their stall

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 35

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Charity quiz

THE annual quiz night, organised by Margaret and David Read at the Britannia Inn, Wells, attracted a full house and was a most enjoyable and successful evening. The event raised £695.70 for the British Heart Foundation. The couple said they would like to thank those who supported the event and others who made donations.

Walking for charity

LOCAL charity Jessie May, which provides hospice and respite care for terminally ill children and their families within their own homes, is celebrating after raising over £2,600 at one of its newest fundraising events.

The People’s Grand Prix was held for the second time with over 70 participants jogging, walking or pushing their way around the 3km wheelchair-friendly track at Odd Down sports ground. Plans are now being made to hold the event again in 2018.

Oxfam’s tree of life

THE charity Oxfam turned 75 on October 5th. In 1942 a small group, the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief, raised money to help starving people in Greece and Belgium during World War Two. This was just the beginning.

Mid-Somerset Oxfam group has commemorated the anniversary by planting an apple tree, Laxton's Superb, in The Bishop's Palace Arboretum, in Wells. It says it is a symbolic gesture of the act of giving and growth.

A spokesman said: “Today Oxfam is renowned worldwide for its work providing life-saving aid and standing up for the rights of the world's poorest people. From small saplings large trees grow.

“We feel honoured to have the Oxfam Birthday Tree in this very beautiful garden and would like to thank the garden team at The Bishop’s Palace.”

Details: Mid-Somerset Oxfam: celialacey48@hotmail.com

Caving for charity

Masons make a difference

Masons and guests at the event in Nailsea

MORE than £60,000 was donated in a single evening by freemasons in Somerset at a meeting in Nailsea.

Members of lodges from North Somerset, local dignitaries and representatives of charities enjoyed the special event held to celebrate Somerset Freemasons’ Making a Difference. The evening was presided over by the Provincial Grand Master for Somerset, Stuart Hadler.

Amongst the organisations to receive cheques were the Great Western Ambulance Service and their Dorset and Somerset counterparts. Children’s Hospice South West and Designability – developers of the Wizzy Bug wheelchair for chidren – were among some of the other charities to benefit from the night.

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WESTON Hospicecare is adding a new event to its fundraising calendar, a caving challenge in Burrington Combe.

Taking place on Saturday, February 24th, all participants will be fully equipped with the necessary safety gear and lead through the caves by a qualified instructor.

Weston Hospicecare’s events fundraiser, Kelsey Dehaney, said: “Caving is a brilliant group activity; perfect for business to take part in as a team-building exercise, or for friends to join in together whilst raising money for a worthwhile cause.

“This is such a unique activity, and we’re delighted to include caving as part of our fantastic line-up of events in 2018.”

Registration costs £35 per person, with a pledge to raise £100 for Weston Hospicecare. The minimum age is eight years, so you might even decide to take part as a family. Places are limited.

Details: Kelsey Dehaney 01934 423967 email Kelsey.dehaney@westonhospicecare.org.uk

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CHARITIES

Businesses back charity fayre

Boxes of love

Eady Body (seated), who visits the CHSW centre at Little Bridge House in Devon, with some of the stall holders and organisers in the craft market

All wrapped up for Christmas – members of Burnham Inner Wheel with their Romania-bound shoeboxes

TRADERS at Rookery Farm in Binegar joined forces to support a Christmas event in aid of Children’s Hospice South West.

MEMBERS of Burnham-on-Sea Inner Wheel covered and filled 63 Christmas shoeboxes of gifts and essential items to be sent to Romania.

The items in the boxes were sorted according to age and recipients will range from babies up to adults. The boxes were then delivered to SWEEPS who transport all the boxes to Romania for distribution.

Volunteers needed at shop

Ella, Felicity, Finlay and Jerry on the sweet stall inside Mendip Rural Services. The idea was to sell the sweets…

IT’S been a busy time at the Dorothy House Hospice Care shop at Midsomer Norton, where Tracey Woodward became manager at the start of October.

Shortly afterwards they welcomed back their deputy manager, Gemma Hand, who had been on maternity leave and have now been joined by a new deputy manager, Caroline Walcot.

Tracey said: “With this new staff team on board together with our existing team of loyal volunteers, the shop is going from strength to strength.

“However we urgently need to recruit new volunteers. With new year’s resolutions including such ideas I wonder if we can spread the word and get new volunteers interested in joining.”

Details: 01761 411289 or email MidsomerNorton.Shop@dorothyhouse-hospice.org.uk

Charity calendar Jess Flack and Karen Lawrence with copies of the calendar

A make-and-take session underway at Somer Craft Addix

AFTER the success of their calendar last year, Jess Flack, who runs the Miners Coffee Shop in Pensford with Fran Garland, is producing another calendar, raising funds for the charity CRY, Cardiac Risk in the Young.

Last year's calendar was a sell-out, raising around £1,000 for Cystic Fibrosis.

The calendars are £7.50 each and are available from the coffee shop or Pensford Post Office.

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 37

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Charity celebrates ten years – and looks to expand THERE are some charities that are the unsung heroes in their local community, quietly doing a sterling job and providing indispensable support to people most in need. One of those is Congresbury-based Vine Counselling Services.

It has just celebrated ten years providing donation-based professional counselling to residents within North Somerset who are struggling to cope due to a number of reasons, such as anxiety, stress, depression, family or personal crisis, abuse, self-harm, selfesteem and confidence issues.

With mental health a growing issue, fuelled by factors such as the economic situation over the last decade and the growth in social media, Vine has seen in excess of 400 clients over this period with many using the support service on many occasions.

Currently the charity which is based at St Andrew’s Church provides 28 appointments per week but, due to exceptional demand, this is set to grow further in 2018.

Its operations director, Liz Linnitt, said: “Mental health represents one of the biggest challenges facing our society. Approximately one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. In England one in six people report experiencing a common mental health condition such as anxiety and depression in any given week.

“Our highly qualified counsellors

literally provide a lifeline for our clients as our service is extremely affordable for those who do not have the money to pay privately or who need to get our support quickly.

“However, we now need more volunteers, qualified counsellors and funding to be able to bring the benefits of our service to the rising number of the local population suffering from a mental health condition.”

The director of Vine, Jo Lawrance, said: “Over the last ten years we have seen mental health become much less taboo, although there is still a long way to go in getting people to talk more openly. As this is one of the foundations that counselling is based upon it is a vital part of our work and the core to helping our clients move forward.

“Every client’s experience and expectations of counselling will be different but we believe that given the opportunity to have appointments tailored to just what they need can have really positive results.”

Vine’s part-time service, which is provided by a nine-strong team of counsellors, who have undertaken extensive academic and practical

training, offers a highly qualified and cost-effective service.

The charity is also a validated agency placement for trainee counsellors nearing the end of their university courses. All counsellors and receptionists, who manage appointments and provide a warm welcome to clients, give their time free.

The charity continues to go from strength to strength and has grown to a 25-strong team from the two counsellors that were originally taken on when it was formed in 2007. In that time the organisation has partnered with colleges, universities, GPs, churches, parish councils, businesses and other charities to spread the word about what it offers.

It’s now looking for support from individuals and businesses to expand and is organising a number of significant local fundraising events to celebrate its ten-year milestone, the first of which is a concert given by popular show choir “Amplify” at Churchill Academy on February 24th, together with choir “Sister Sing”.

Tickets for the Amplify performance cost £10 and are now available on www.ticketsource.co.uk or through the Vine office.

This will be followed by a dance show hosted by the Jacqueline Fox School of Dance, which will take place at the McMillan Theatre, Bridgwater on May 27th. The proceeds will be shared between Vine and another charity.

Details: www.vinecounselling.org email vine.counselling@hotmail.co.uk or phone 01934 876377.

Rotary supports hospice

AT a recent meeting of Rotary, Nailsea and Backwell, the president, Chris Bales, presented a cheque for £2,000 to Viv Shorney, from Children’s Hospice South West. It was part of the proceeds from last summer’s Rotary Charity Golf Day. Viv thanked the club and stressed that the hospice relies very heavily on fundraising by local organisations to help cover their huge annual running costs.

The 24th annual Salvation Army concert sponsored by Rotary, Nailsea and Backwell, took place on Sunday December 3rd.

The collection this year was in aid of the Nailsea Disability Initiative and a grand total of £590.50 was raised. The cheque was presented by Rotary president Chris Bales to Chris Sumter representing the charity.

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CHARITIES

Les boosts Surviving Winter campaign

WEST Countryman, Les Davies, is the latest local name to back Somerset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter campaign.

Les is president of the Mendip Society, a member of the Youth Environmental Awards Committee, a lifetime member of the Avon and Somerset Search and Rescue team and chairman of Mendip Ploughing Society.

His West Countryman’s Diary appears in Mendip Times every month.

He said: “Donating all or part of your Winter Fuel Payment to Surviving Winter can help so much. I’m delighted to support such a worthwhile campaign! If you can help, please consider giving your payment to others who are in need. Let’s make an effort to look after those who are less fortunate and make sure everyone stays warm this winter.”

Following a recent television appearance where Les endorsed Surviving Winter on a BBC Points West report, the appeal has had a massive boost – with donations now well on their way to reaching 50 percent of the £100,000 target.

To donate some or all of your Winter Fuel Payment, or to make a donation of any size to the Surviving Winter appeal, send a

cheque made payable to Somerset Community Foundation (writing SW on the back), Yeoman House, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN; call 01749 344949; or you can donate online at www.somersetcf.org.uk/winter Gift Aid forms are available to download on the website.

If you run a local community project and would like to find out more about grant funding, call Somerset Community Foundation on 01749 344949 or visit www.somersetcf.org.uk

We will rise again – zombies back for charity

Spooky students on the High Street

GLASTONBURY’S annual Zombie Parade was once again full of chills and thrills as dozens took to the streets in aid of a local charity.

The procession began with a flash mob dance to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, choreographed by local dance group Mean Feet Dance, before the mayor of Glastonbury “released” the zombies.

This year’s parade was in aid of Children’s World and organisers say they will be back in 2018 to wreak more carnage in the town.

The flash mob dance

Kaiden seeks a new victim

Five-year-old Ollie doesn’t appear to be too frightened by this vampire bride

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 39

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NEWS

Rotary’s aim is crystal clear

THE president of Rotary International in Britain and Ireland took a taste test with a difference when he visited the Worldwaterworks aid project in Westfield.

At the heart of the charity’s work is the Water-Survival Box, sent to disaster areas around the world. The main component of the kit is a water purification pump and Denis Spiller was happy to sample the end product when he helped to pack boxes at the charity’s warehouse.

The project – the brainchild of the

Hugo Pike, past-president of Chelwood Bridge rotary club, and director of operations for Worldwaterworks. Hugo was awarded the OBE for his services to the charity

Denis Spiller (right) lends a hand as another box is packed

A jewel in the town

Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge – arose as a response to the 2004 tsunami in the Indian Ocean. As well as the pump, the box contains utensils for feeding and drinking, health and hygiene items, basic shelter and simple tools.

Since 2006 a total of 13,700 boxes have been sent in response to 54 disasters in 28 different countries across the world and helped protect some 140,000 people from water-borne

Lyn, Rob, Steve and Pat in the family-run jewellery shop

THE oldest family-run business in Shepton Mallet is to close its doors after 109 years of continuous trading.

C. H. Penn Jewellers was founded in Church Lane by Clifford Penn but moved to the High Street in the 1960s.

Now Steve and Rob Penn and their wives Lyn and Pat are to retire. Steve said: “The best thing has been the people; we have been fortunate to have had some very good and loyal customers.”

PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Raising a glass to the Water-Survival Box project (l:r) Dot Cretney, Denis Spiller, Hugo Pike, Ray Lithgo, Tony Quinn and Stewart Cursley

disease.

Worldwaterworks Limited is managed by seven senior members of the Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge who are also trustees of the registered charity. Since 2008 the project has been one of the “Opportunities to Serve” supported by rotary clubs throughout Britain and Ireland.

The president was accompanied by Stewart Cursley, from the Rotary Club of Wells and governor of the district which includes the Chelwood Bridge club.

Road closure warning in Walton

MAJOR resurfacing works on a key route between Bridgwater and Street are being planned for Walton in February.

The essential work on Main Street is the fifth phase of significant highway maintenance investment in to the A39 corridor between Bridgwater and Street in recent times.

Somerset County Council says that, due to the narrow width of the road and to keep both the public and workforce safe, a road closure will be required. Works are provisionally scheduled to start on Monday, February 5th and take approximately two weeks.

Councillor John Woodman, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for highways, said: “We’ve invested a lot of money in the A39 in recent times and this is another stretch of this key route being improved.

“There’s never a perfect time to carry out work like this. We’re doing our best to keep disruption to a minimum and are publicising the provisional details now to give people as much time to prepare as possible.”

For details, contact Somerset County Council on 0300 1232224 or email countyroads-mendip@somerset.gov.uk

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Santa’s forest grotto

THE children at All Hallows School could not believe their eyes when a very special visitor came to see them in Forest School just before the end of term. Skipping down to the woodland, there were huge squeals of excitement as they were greeted by Father Christmas who appeared to have landed on their outdoor classroom!

All Hallows’ Forest School is used year-round for a wide range of activities from bushcraft skills, pizza making, orienteering, craft activities, woodwork and photography as well as having a huge amount of fun running around, toasting marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate.

It is a favourite place for all the children from nursery through to Year 8, but no-one was expecting Father Christmas to appear in their very own woods.

Santa’s little helpers had been very busy in December, making a range of wonderful decorations in Forest School. Using saws, scissors, wool and wire the children made some hugely creative reindeer, elves, Christmas trees and mini Father Christmases which the children took home and were sold at the Christmas Fair.

EDUCATION

School council meets council leader

EAST Harptree Primary school council had a wonderful visit to the Guildhall in Bath, where they were greeted

by Tim Warren, leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, who showed them around the council chamber and joined them for their own meeting.

The children were also lucky enough to spend some time in the mayor's parlour, where they found out a lot about the history of the council. Tim Warren said: "The school and parents should be proud of the way the children acted – a real credit to all."

THE independent DIFFERENCE ON YOUR DOORSTEP. We can offer your child: • Wonderfully innovative Preparatory School welcoming children from 3-13 years • Superb pastoral care • Over 60% scholarships awarded to Senior Schools • Stunning rural setting with forest school and outdoor education • Outstanding sporting facilities and opportunities • Vibrant music, Performing Arts, Art and CDT centres • School transport available from all surrounding areas • Scholarships and bursaries available • Day, flexi and full-time boarding

ALL HALLOWS P R E P A R A T O RY S C H O O L

• Located near Bath, Frome and Bruton

COME AND VISIT US admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk Tel: 01749 881609 All Hallows Preparatory School Cranmore Hall, Shepton Mallet Somerset BA4 4SF

OPEN MORNING: Saturday 20th January 9.30 to midday MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 41

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Outstanding nursery school

WITH over 20 years’ experience The Rainbow Montessori Nursery School, in Winscombe, goes from strength to strength in meeting the needs of children and their families in North Somerset.

Gaining Outstanding in all areas at Ofsted in July 2017, the Montessori teachers and prepared environment inspires children from the age two-five years to follow their own interests and to have a love of learning which will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Hundred up for Sidcot School IT has been a record-breaking year for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Sidcot School. In 2016 the school celebrated the diamond jubilee of the scheme by achieving a record 60 awards. This year this record was smashed, with 100 awards completed.

Lower Sixth student Lucy Slingsby, aged 16, from Langford, was the 100th award winner, completing a tally of eight gold, 31 silver and 61 bronze. As well as expeditions, students complete courses on physical recreation, skill and volunteering.

Headmaster, Iain Kilpatrick said: “This is an amazing achievement from our students. It’s a testament to their dedication and fortitude and also the support provided by both staff and parents to achieve such success.”

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Full-time courses for school leavers at Bath College AS a full-time student at Bath College, you’ll enjoy a real alternative to school. You’ll be part of an adult learning environment, where you will be encouraged to discover things for yourself, with help from their supportive team.

Staying in education until the age of 18 doesn’t mean you need to stay at school. Alternative options include a full-time course at college, a work-based learning programme, such as an apprenticeship, or full-time employment combined with parttime study.

At Bath College, they provide vocational and academic courses in a wide range of subjects and they can help you to find a suitable course to make sure you have the knowledge and skills for your chosen career.

As the largest provider of apprenticeships in Bath, they also offer excellent opportunities for young people to earn and learn on the job. Over the last year, the college’s apprenticeship team has increased its provision, working with over 60 companies to develop apprenticeship programmes in nine new business areas.

Their city centre campus gives students the opportunity to be in the middle of Bath’s vibrant atmosphere, which is easily accessible from Bristol, Wiltshire and the surrounding areas.

Courses available include art and design, photography, business, hospitality and catering, hairdressing, complementary therapy, health and social care, IT, media, music and sport.

At their Somer Valley campus, based in the picturesque

EDUCATION

Somerset countryside, students study arboriculture, animal care, veterinary nursing and motor vehicle maintenance.

In September they opened their new Somer Construction Centre, catering for 500 students and apprentices studying bricklaying, construction, carpentry and stonemasonry, as well as plumbing, electrical installation and refrigeration. They are creating a centre of excellence for the West of England, helping learners to gain the practical and theoretical skills they need to secure and sustain employment in the construction industry.

Bath College Principal Laurel Penrose said: “We are an enterprising community college which focuses on collaboration and innovation.

“We have strong links with the business community and we celebrate the world of work and professional and technical education. We see education as an aspirational driver, as a bridge to future careers and a facilitator for those in work to improve their place in it.

“We work with new and emerging talent to prepare students to excel and meet the needs of employers. The work we do is about improving life chances.”

Details: visit www.bathcollege.ac.uk or contact the Student Advice Centre on 01225 312191.

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 43

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Chew Magna

Chew Valley St Peter's Support Group (l to r) Constance, Jo, Janet and Chrissie

Crowds around the Triangle

Congresbury Brass

Lighting the tree, Reuben Wilson, aged nine, with mum Sharon

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Matilda Crowe, aged four, one of the winners of the bauble competition with mum Naomi

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Santa on the run

Getting ready for the Mini Santa Scramble Naftali and Edith Onchere who run the charity Mend the Gap

THE Chew Valley’s first Santa Scramble was a great success, with more than 600 people taking part, raising money for Chew Valley School and the charity Mend the Gap, which works with local schools to support projects in Kenya.

Start of the adult race

Junior girls' winner, Esther Wring, aged nine

Ruth Cullingford ran with daughters Molly, aged four, and Tilly, aged three

Crossing the River Chew PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Junior boys' winner Josh Wake, aged ten

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Tel: 0800 097 8611

www.johnhodge.co.uk | e-mail: mailbox@johnhodge.co.uk

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

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THE MENDIP SOCIETY

Society supports proposals for new Mendip centre THE countryside around us is preparing to close down for the winter period and those glorious colours have gone.

However, Mendip’s community activity seems to be changing up a gear to compensate.

Information is coming in about a proposed new gateway information centre taking over the Burrington Inn and adjacent property in Burrington Combe. Holt Farms hope to create a much-needed centre that can be used by all locals, groups and visitors alike.

In the hands of responsible bodies such as the AONB and the various activity groups, let’s hope it will result in a co-ordinated centre which will benefit everyone. Well done Holt Farms and Yeo Valley for this action, which is happening just at the right time and the Mendip Society will work hard to ensure it succeeds.

It’s nice to see The Walkers are Welcome idea being promoted in Cheddar. The new walking boards are a good idea and Cheddar is ideally located on the Mendip Way. The society is happy to help in this endeavour, just as our volunteers assisted in signing the Mendip Way earlier this year. We are also joining together for our walk on December 27th.

More walking news comes from Frome, where the town wants to follow in the footsteps of Cheddar and make it an official Walkers are Welcome centre.

This is a natural step to ensure that the Mendip Way links the west to east path to make it attractive to users and visitors alike.

Volunteers with the Kier team

The first day of hedging

The society has long campaigned that East Mendip should play a more active role and an AONB extension would assist this idea to the benefit of all. The society has always inserted walks in this area in its programme.

How nice to see volunteers working hard to improve sections of the Strawberry Line in the Wells/Dulcote area. It all goes to help the completion of this valuable community asset that will stretch throughout the Cheddar Valley and beyond! Cyclists and walkers really appreciate this path and it is proving a very popular site to all.

The Shute Shelf Tunnel is still closed and signs are it will not reopen until March/April. The society is well aware that this causes problems for users and

have therefore created a firm path through Sladers Leigh Nature Reserve.

This should ensure that all users will have a firm surface which will be mudfree.

We also wish to thank the Kier Ecology Team who joined in a 22volunteer team to do maintenance work in the reserve and its pond. They all did a great job of putting something back into this section which has been disturbed by work on the water mains pipe.

Our hedging days proved to be oversubscribed many times over and now a great length of hedge was laid by complete beginners, thanks to the three national championship hedgers we had as tutors, and well done to all concerned.

Richard Frost and Judith Tranter

Details: www.themendipsociety.org.uk or ring 01275 874284/472797

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WILDLIFE

A new year of optimism

JANUARY is an interesting month for wildlife. Whilst natural food supplies dwindle away the weather now calls the tune for most species.

A mild January will see early advance of spring, and yes, even in January, the first signs will appear. The first snowdrops will

By CHRIS be a life saver for any bees that venture out, SPERRING other emerging insects will provide much MBE needed energy for small birds and small mammals may even produce their first litters of the new year.

A worst case scenario is a long freeze on top of a layer of snow and living where we do anything can, and does, happen.

But is a long cold snap really that bad for wildlife? Well, some may be surprised to learn that it can be a really good thing for some species, but for others it can be a disaster.

Good examples of animals which suffer when the winter is too mild are the bees. I’m sure we’ve all observed bumble bees during the winter months, flying around the garden in a hopeless search for nectar. Burning precious energy with nothing available to replenish it will seal their fate.

Whereas, a long, cold winter will encourage hibernating animals to remain dormant, emerging only when temperatures rise again. If this occurs at the correct time it will coincide with that vital spring food supply.

So, it’s all about timing. For small birds coming into breeding condition then this timing is crucial. Species like blackbird, dunnock and robin can begin breeding really early and during mild spells this can be as early as February. In these cases, they are responding to local conditions, both food availability and climate. If the mild spell gives way to a sudden cold snap then the nest contents, and even the adults themselves, may perish, so early breeding is very risky.

When food supplies are high in January it’s well worth taking an early morning walk, because quite a few birds will start tuning up and perfecting their songs. Indeed, I have always said that if you want to learn how to identify bird song, then January is a great month to start learning.

Blackbird, song hrush, mistle thrush, great tit, wren, robin and dunnock should be on your tick list to listen out for and, by February, more birds will join in.

Other highlights to listen out for in January are the bloodcurdling mating screams of foxes after dark, and during clear, sunny days look out for the soaring displays of female sparrowhawks. They will rise out of the woods circling low at first then gradually gain height in an obvious “I am here” visual display. In effect, she is marking her territory so that other female sparrowhawks know that she is the dominant one in that area. Males are much smaller than the females, so they tend to stay hidden at this time of the year in case they end up on the menu!

Hope you have a fantastic New Year and never forget that nature conservation is not all doom and gloom. Where there’s life in all its glorious diversity, then there’s always hope. ● In January, I’m leading some early bird watching walks where we start off the process of learning bird song and general bird identification. Please contact me for more details.

January is a good time to listen out for dunnock

Timing is everything as to when birds will begin breeding

Blackbirds will be singing

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

A frosty Portbury

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 49

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A reservoir ramble for New Year

A SHORT and varied winter circle from the village of Hinton Blewett above the Chew Valley. The walk takes you down the hill through fields from the village with spectacular views over the valley to Mendip and follows the edge of lower and upper Litton reservoirs, a really peaceful spot in the valley and a popular haunt with water birds. Then it’s up across ancient

Shortwood Common and back to the village and the chance to enjoy one of my favourite pubs. Parts of the route, around field gates, will be muddy, sometimes very muddy, but most of this circle is dry and/or hard underfoot.

Enjoy a mixture of downhill walking, flat sections and a steep and then moderate uphill. There are still a few stiles to cross, but mainly this walk is particularly strong on kissing gates.

PARK: In the village of Hinton Blewett, a village on a hill, above the Chew Valley, east of West Harptree.

Pub postcode BS39 5AN. Park on the small green – known as the Barbary – opposite the Ring O’ Bells pub.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

START: The village was known in the Domesday Book as Hantone, the Blewett part of the name coming from the Bluet family in the 14th century. It may be that Hantone means “a poor enclosure” in old English. William Rees-Mogg took the title of Baron Rees-Mogg of Hinton Blewett, when he was made a life peer in 1988, although a decade later he and his family moved to nearby Mells. Lord Rees-Mogg's children Jacob and Annunziata spent much of their childhood in the village and Jacob now lives down in West Harptree.

With your back to the pub entrance turn right in Upper Road, bending

round and passing the entrance to the fine old church of St Margaret’s. It probably dates from the 13th century although parts are as late as the 16th or 17th. Go on past houses to the junction and take the footpath opposite through a Bristol Gate (which includes a pedestrian gate).

1. FOOTPATH Go ahead past the farm and on along the path, through gates and fields until you come onto a lane. Turn left a short distance then go right in Hook Lane.

You will see you have joined the Butcombe Trail, a long distance path that Les Davies and I set up ten years ago for Butcombe Brewery, linking their pubs on Mendip.

2. HOOK LANE Pass the village recreation field and as it ends, go right over a stile by a gate.

3. FIELDS Here you may encounter mud. Head diagonally left across the field to a visible stile in the far hedge. Already you have some fine views across the valley. Once over the stile, continue in the same direction across the next field and over another stile. Now come onto a path on the hill edge in the next field, where the owner is busy creating a hedge-line. Follow it ahead dropping gently and go through a kissing gate.

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4. HILLSIDE Head down along the side of Coley Hill, passing close to an oak. It can be uneven underfoot. Soon see Litton Lower Reservoir below. Continue to the end of the field, and go through a wide opening under an oak, and head across to a kissing gate. Then turn right downhill following the right hedge. Go through a kissing gate and down steps to the end of the dam at the Lower Reservoir.

5. RESERVOIRS The Lower and Upper Reservoirs were built around 1850 by the then Bristol Waterworks Company (now called Bristol Water) as part of the "Line of Works" to bring water from the Mendip Hills to Bristol. Turn left on the hard track. Pass a wooden fishing hut. Fishing (under permit) is mainly for rainbow and brown trout. The track gradually climbs towards the grass-covered slope of the dam above, which has a slipway alongside. Keep straight ahead on the hard path, passing close to a house and follow a dry dirt path along the edge of the Upper Reservoir. Frequent visitors to these waters include moorhens, coots, mallards, swans and tufted ducks.

Just continue all the way round until you come out on a lane. Turn left and almost immediately go left again through a gate. Follow the left hedge and then gradually bear away up towards a large house, Shortwood House and through a kissing gate. Cross a small field, the drive, two more gates and come onto ancient Shortwood Common, where local people living and working within the manor had various commoner rights.

WALKING L

OS Explorer 141, Cheddar Gorge & Mendip Hills West, grid ref: 594 569 3.4 miles, about two hours walking

6. COMMON Start the climb out of the valley by turning left up across the common. As you look back over to the other side, you may be able to see a good example of grass lynchets, part of the medieval field system. A gate at the top brings you onto a path through a small piece of woodland.

7. LANE Come onto a lane and go straight ahead for a few minutes. Just past a breeze block wall, part of an old a dung pit, turn right through a kissing gate on the marked path.

Go straight across this large, high open field, with Hinton Blewett in view ahead of you. Find a kissing gate in the far hedge in a corner where the hedge does a dogleg. Cross the next field to another kissing gate. Go over a footbridge and follow the path along the bottom of the field. You should be able to see Hinton Blewett church tower by now. Over to your right is Sedbrook Farm. Go through another gate and cross another field. Then go through to another field and go straight on following the right hedge in the direction of the village.

8. FARM Go through yet one more kissing gate to a farm by a restored stone barn. Note the use of a mill stone in the wall. Turn left on the farm track and this brings you to Lower Road in Hinton Blewett. Turn right back through the village to the green where you began.

Ring O’ Bells, Hinton Blewett, 01761 452239, postcode BS39 5AN

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OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s diary

With LES DAVIES MBE

NO doubt after all the madness and mayhem of Christmas, many will be looking forward to a return to normality, whatever that may be! When the shortest day has passed the days will

become longer.

My experience is that this process is so slow as to be barely noticeable.

January is not my favourite month, despite the New Year festivities that precede another year full of hope and expectation. This New Year is still in the wrapper and nobody has tampered with it just yet.

There are no greasy finger prints, or teeth marks of a desperate attempt to open the clear cellophane that surrounds this new product. It remains at this moment in time something to savour in anticipation!

I am not alone in thinking January to be an unexciting month of the year. As an old motto goes: “The blackest month of all the year is the month of Janiveer.” It’s named after the Roman God Janus, who is depicted with two faces looking in opposite directions. One as in retrospect and looking back, whilst the other prospective and looking forward.

This is the classic state of reflection and expectation we all go through as we reach another milestone in our lives!

We are not alone with such thoughts. I’m sure the ancients felt this too in the dark depths of a winter with little daylight and cold temperatures. The whole of the natural world has slowed down, if not even gone to sleep. Time then to bring a little light and cheer into these darker days and hope for better times ahead.

Time for the wassails! The Somerset Rural Life Museum was re-opened in the middle of 2017, after nearly three years of closure for a complete overhaul. Now one of its most popular events is taking place again and I have been asked to be the Master of Ceremonies at this year’s wassail on Saturday January 13th. For more information, contact the museum on SRLM@swheritage.org.uk or ring on 01458 831197.

Many other organisations and village groups will also be organising their celebrations to ensure a good crop of apples next year. I certainly intend to

wassail the small orchard I have taken on, after all, let’s leave nothing to chance!

Weather and ground conditions at this time of the year are hardly conducive to putting your boots on and getting out and about. Sometimes however this is just what’s needed to break the monotony of routine. Whilst everything out there may be looking a little drab and politely asking that you forgive the stark and bare state in which you find it, others are chancing their arm.

The primrose always thinks it worth a go and will be found in many a sheltered spot in bloom during January. Likewise the daisy will always manage to get its seemingly delicate white and red tipped flower head above ground in the grassland.

This flower was wonderfully described by Robbie Burns as being: “Wee, modest, crimson-tippet flower.”

Even in the depths of winter it does the soul good to get outside. After all it’s even more justification for sitting in front of the fire. Don’t forget to put a sprig of rosemary on top of the wood burner to get that warm “cheese cracker” smell.

Now, with the thoughts of food thoroughly implanted in your head, let me expand that idea further with another description of the Leg of Mutton Supper held annually at the Bear and Swan in Chew Magna. Those with a fondness for remembering “foody” things may well remember my description of this wonderful gathering from last year.

For those who cannot remember, or never read it in the first place, here is a rerun. Way back in 1972 at a livestock market that is now all residential housing in Winford, a local farmer failed to achieve the over-expectant reserve he had put on one his ewes at market. So in desperation he decided if it couldn’t be sold he and his friends would eat it.

So began the annual gathering that still continues today. This is a real ‘A’ list invitation-only event, where the great and good of Mendip gather to enjoy each other’s company and swap yarns, why even the editor of Mendip Times is on the list!

The meal is simple and filling with slowcooked mutton, root vegetables, gravy and a wonderful caper sauce, all washed down with every conceivable alcoholic stimulant known to mankind. This is a gathering that Charles Dickens’ Mr Pickwick would have

found himself quite at home with! As with every other meeting, there were generous donations to charity, in the spirit of helping others.

I have been asked to support a cause promoted by the Somerset Community Foundation this winter. The Surviving Winter Campaign is aimed at the more vulnerable elderly population, for whom fuel poverty is a real problem. I, like many others who work outside, have at times been bitterly cold.

I have been close to hypothermia on Dartmoor and slept out in a hole in the ground on Mendip with temperatures several degrees below freezing. I have been on Black Down where the cold wind, at around minus 10c with wind chill, has numbed my face so that speech has almost been impossible. I can understand the abject misery of being cold and how it will sap your strength and ability to do anything.

Dramatic though it sounds, that inability to be able to help yourself is the reality for many elderly people who find their limited income is at times not enough to feed themselves and keep warm. I therefore chose to “share” my winter fuel allowance this year, not because I don’t want it or don’t need it, but more because I CAN share it so that someone else might be helped. That vulnerable elderly person could be anyone of us or any one of our family.

This month’s picture is out of the archive. It’s me and my daughter Lizzie when she was the Wassail Queen at the very last ceremony before the Rural Life Museum closed. She said it was yet another item ticked off of her “Bucket” list!

Finally, whatever you’re doing and wherever you are over New Year and into January 2018, have a great time!

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

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YEO VALLEY

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Winter joy with the right plants

ANYTHING that stays above ground and offers us winter interest is worth its weight in gold in the garden during the dull days of winter. So, focusing on plants for this season is a good policy, if only for a small area visible from the house. Growing such plants in containers and then grouping them to With MARY make a winter feature is an ideal method PAYNE MBE where space is limited.

There is something very special about any plant that insists on blooming during the winter months and especially those that are perfumed. I imagine that the reason so many of our winter flowers are scented is to attract pollinators, who themselves are reluctant to venture forth at this season.

Those that do will home in on those plants with strongly fragrant flowers. From our point of view, these gems need to be positioned close to a well-used path or doorway as the scent does not carry very far. The smell will travel far for the sensitive nosed pollinators, but we have less than perfect olfactory senses.

Every gardener should find a suitable spot for the Christmas Box (Sarcococca confusa). It is perfect for a shady location and its small but shiny leaves reflect the light. The real value comes just after Christmas when tiny clusters of creamy white stamens emit a most powerful fragrance. This relative of our common box can be clipped immediately after flowering to keep it within bounds.

At about the same time, the lily of the valley scented trusses of pale yellow flowers appear on Mahonia japonica. The mahonias are more commonly represented by the upright strong yellow flower spikes of Mahonia x media Charity that flower from November onwards, but are much less scented.

All the mahonias have evolved a method to ensure adequate fertilisation. In the centre of the flower is a single stigma, surrounded by five stamens. If a single stamen is touched by an insect or even us, all the stamens clamp shut onto the stigma – fast. Try it, using a pencil lead to prod a stamen!

Equally powerful, sometimes even overpowering, is the scent from the flowers of appropriately named Wintersweet (Chimonanthus preacox). Ideally planted and trained against a sheltered south or west facing wall, the somewhat understated flowers use their perfume to attract pollinators.

Daphnes are renowned for their fragrance, but can be tricky customers. If you have not had success, then I urge you to try again with Daphne bholua from the Himalayas. This is a narrow upright evergreen shrub. The pink-white clusters of flowers have the same powerful fragrance as the lower growing commonly seen Daphne odora, but the whole plant seems more adaptable and can even be lightly pruned to shape if required.

Over the years the heathers have come and gone from garden fashion rather like Marmite – love or hate. I think they offer exceptional value for winter interest, and are a valuable source of nectar for bees and other insects during the winter months.

In our area the winter flowering heathers grow well in the mainly non-acidic soils. A light trim over immediately after flowering will keep them in shape. Try the white flowered Erica x darleyensis White Perfection or the deep pink/red Kramer’s Rote planted in groups.

Add some coloured winter twigs to your winter cameo. The red, orange and green stems of the various easy to please dogwoods can all be pruned to encourage strong new growth that has the best colour. Look at the tall willow trees around the Chew PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Valley Lake, and enjoy the orange twigs of the previous season’s growth.

To complete the scene, some bright evergreens will attract the eye all winter. For the front of a border the various varieties of Euonymus fortune, such as Emerald Gaeity and Emerald ‘n’ Gold are invaluable along with Elephant Ears (Bergenia varieties), especially those that turn the colour of raw liver in the winter!

For the back, the yellow-edged, silver-backed foliage of Elaeagnus Gilt Edge and Photinia Red Robin will do the trick, while for the middle of the border I value the foliage of Euphorbia characias both in its plain blue green forms and especially the white and green variegated types. Take care when handling these euphorbias as the sap can be an irritant.

Our winter feature is nearly complete, but requires some early flowering bulbs. The yellow trumpet flowers of Narcissus Rijnveld’s Early Sensation is invariably one of the earliest, and can be in bloom as early as January in our area.

Snowdrops must also be on the menu. They do not have to be special ones, simply the single flowered common one will do.

Remember to plant them “in the green” rather than as dry bulbs in the autumn. The exquisite beauty and colouring of the blue flowered Iris histrioides Lady Beatrix Stanley can best be appreciated if grown in a shallow bowl and stood on a garden table.

You may be wondering why I have not yet mentioned the Christmas rose. These stalwarts of the winter garden now come in a bewildering array of types but for my money stick to the traditional Lenten rose (Helleborus x hybridus) in shades of pink and white.

Plant them in bold groups of three or five or even more, and remember to cut off the old leaves if you have not already done so. This helps prevent the disfiguring black leaf spot disease from transferring from the old to the new foliage.

For those with enough space to spare, a magnificent specimen of the snowy white-stemmed Betula utilis var. jacquemontii will complete the picture, but try to ensure that someone is detailed to scrub or pressure wash the trunk to remove the green algae that tends to grow in our damp humid climate. The difference is amazing.

Spring will soon be here, so out with the seed catalogues and start dreaming!

A very Happy New Year to all.

Helleborus flowers

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GARDENING

JANUARY GARDEN TIPS

Cut the side branches off your old Christmas treeS and use these to cover tender plants in the garden. This will keep the worst of the frost off and yet allow the plant to breathe at the same time.

Fork your borders over between established plants but keep off if the soil is wet. Apply a general fertiliser to all borders.

Buy pots of snowdrops that are now coming into flower.

They establish much easier when transplanted in active growth. Winter aconites too.

Established bulb shoots will be showing above ground now and are very tough so will not need protecting. Daffodils in thin walled pots outside will suffer if the pot is not protected from wind driven frosts so move them to more shelter.

Cover a piece of cultivated veg patch to trap the weak winter sun’s warmth so that an early sowing of carrots, parsnips, peas and other vegetables can be made. Use clear polythene and lay it flat on the soil but weight down the edges to stop it blowing away.

Dig garden lime into areas where you are planning to grow cabbages, sprouts, etc. This will help combat club root disease.

Prune apples and pear trees but not if they are fan, cordon or espalier trained as these should be done in summer.

Prune also grapevines, currants (black, red and white), berries (blackberries, tayberries, gooseberries and loganberries).

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

Now’s the perfect time to get your garden ready for the weather ahead. I’ve wasted countless days and a small fortune, maintaining tired wooden fences that looked dreadful and always need more work. Discovering Colourfence has changed things forever! It’s scientifically tested and rated to ensure when professionally installed it withstands gusts of up to 130mph. Colourfence won’t

Seed Potatoes due in January

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.

To find out how Colourfence might benefit you, arrange a free no obligation quote by calling the numbers below to arrange a FREE no obligation site visit.

Bristol South District. Tel. 0117 214 1201 Clevedon, Tickenham, Portishead, Nailsea, Backwell, Long Ashton, Pill. Tel. 01275 277211 Weston Super Mare, Yatton, Congresbury, Cheddar, Axbridge. Tel. 01934 235591 Temple Cloud, Blagdon. Tel. 01761 202411 MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 55

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Learning new skills

Garden Design • Planting Schemes • Horticultural Consultancy Courses in Gardening and Garden Design www.christinepritchard.co.uk • info@christinepritchard.co.uk tel: 01761 221166 • mobile: 07966 172282

CHRISTINE Pritchard is planning a number of informal gardening courses in the New Year at Bath College’s Somer Valley campus in Radstock and at Stoke Lodge, Stoke Bishop, Bristol.

At Bath College she will run an introduction to garden design on Thursday evenings from February 1st-March 15th, then a course on choosing plants for your borders from April 19th-May 24th. At Stoke Lodge she will hold courses on gardening in a changing climate on Friday March 16th and Friday, March 23rd and a course on drawing skills for garden designers on Saturday January 20th.

PERFECT PAVE

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We specialise in the manufacture of quality standard and bespoke garden buildings to suit your individual needs including:-

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Let our dedicated team assist you in your choice whatever your budget . . . Full design, installation and delivery service available – customise your shed to suit your needs We also do: Chicken Houses • Dog Kennels • Bin & Log Stores

What better time for a service than when you’re not using your lawnmower? Avoid the pre-season rush and ensure your machine is stored in tip-top condition using Honda genuine parts and oils, ready and waiting for next season.

75 Greenhill Road, Sandford, Winscombe, North Somerset BS25 5PA TEL: 01934 852151 www.gabgardenmachinery.co.uk PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT US AND SEE OUR SHOW MODELS – OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK THE TIMBERYARD • SHUTE SHELVE • CROSS • NEAR AXBRIDGE

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MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 57

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Reindeer pull in the crowds

By Mark Adler

WELLS came to a standstill for the annual reindeer parade, organised by members of the city’s rotary club.

Thousands of people lined the High Street for the 11th annual procession through the city.

The idea of a reindeer parade was first raised by rotarian Wendy Lucas, who stepped down from the role of organiser after this year’s event. Wendy said: “I’m very proud that the parade is now firmly established on the city’s calendar.

“It’s been great fun and I have had some fantastic support. I’ll still be involved, but I’m sure the parade will get even better in future.”

Rotarian Sharon Haigh selling antlers and programmes

Curious – one of the team takes a closer look

Father Christmas in the Market Square

Members of the Joyful Spirit gospel choir on stage in the Market Square PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Ready for the parade – the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd team behind the Crown

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

The parade makes its way down the High Street – crowds were five and six deep in places

Luca, Edie-Rae and Ava enjoy a fairground ride

Maya (in red), Mollie, Samuel and Mia, who won the art and poetry competitions. There were more than 500 entries

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Elodie, Maisie and Sophie, from the 1st Wells Brownies, selling programmes

Scratching an itch – one of the reindeer finds the sleigh comes in handy

Evie and granddad Andy Coulson with June Cursley on the rotary club’s mistletoe stall.

All the mistletoe on sale had been donated

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Dogs can be better than drugs – so I have two of them

A DOG, as we all know, is for life and not just for Christmas. Not everyone has the time, money, space, compassion and patience for a canine companion. But for those that do, the potential benefits are enormous.

Dog owners have a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and other causes,

By Dr PHIL a study of 3.4 million Swedes has found.

HAMMOND Hunting breeds appeared to confer the greatest benefit and these benefits were greatest for those who live alone, with a 33% reduction in risk of death and 11% reduction in risk of heart attack in the period under study.

This trial was large but not randomised so it can’t prove dogs keep you alive. But those who let dogs into their life are in little doubt how good they are for us. Dogs return your unconditional love. If you hug them, they reduce your blood pressure. They can also reduce your cholesterol (by eating your food).

Your partner may not look at you but a dog will and it’ll keep looking until you take it out for a walk. Twice a day, in the glorious outdoors. Automatically, you’ve got a friendship circle in the dog-walking community.

If your only friend is a dog, it can be a blast. Dogs don’t mind if you get their name wrong, or come home smelling of another dog. Humans are much less forgiving. A dog will never wake you up at midnight to ask “if I die, would you get another dog?”

And a dog’s parents never visit.

Dogs keep you supple as your bend down to pick up the poo.

And dogs expose you to bacteria you may not have otherwise encountered, keeping your microbiome refreshingly varied.

Dogs can be trained to be your eyes and ears, lick you out of a diabetic coma and distract you from your pain or suicidal thoughts .

In my experience, for 90% of symptoms you’re better off with a dog than a doctor. I’m so convinced by the joy of dogs, I have two.

Dr Phil Hammond is author of ‘Staying Alive – How to Get the Best from the NHS’ (Quercus, £14.99) PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

HEALTH & FAMILY

Plop the Raindrop

I LOOKED like a diamond this morning, frozen in frost on a blade of grass. I felt so grand I wanted to puff out my chest and proclaim myself king of all I could see.

Then the sun got warmer and I melted. I trickled slowly down the grass onto the cold earth. It was a bit of a come-down, when you had thought you might be king of the world. But you get used to changes when you are a tiny water droplet.

Now, what was going to happen? If the sun got warmer, I’d disappear into the earth. Even hotter and I would fly back into the clouds. It’s called evaporation.

But a baby rabbit came along and I joined him on quite an adventure.

He’d set out on a walk, out of his burrow. First across the field, where the birds were searching for berries in the hedge. Then down a stream where lazy trout looked at him with large black eyes.

There were swans and ducks on the water and the swishy sound of breeze in the reeds.

Then he came to a huge lake and started hopping along the shore. Of course I assumed he knew where he was going.

Actually he had got himself totally lost.

From the lake he headed into a wood, where the trees were still clinging to what was left of their leaves. There were bees buzzing in the ivy flowers, now warmed by the afternoon sun.

He found a hollow by a tree and went to sleep to the sound of the bees and the breeze. I went to sleep too.

It was nearly dark when we woke up. As my friend rubbed his eyes and peered around, I realised he didn’t have a clue where we were. I could have told him the way back, but I don’t speak rabbit.

Luckily one of his relatives came by and took us back through the woods, along the lake, up the stream and back across the field.

His mummy and daddy were waiting for him saying: “Where have you been?” He recounted his adventure and they were amazed that one so young had gone so far, but told him not to do it again.

I could have told them about some of my adventures in space and the Antarctic, but I don’t like to boast.

Back in their burrow, warm and snug, I’d just settled to sleep, listening to the soft snoring of the rabbit family, when I got swallowed by a worm.

So I don’t know where I will be tomorrow. It’s a strange old world. A king for a moment one day and heading for worm wee the next! Who knows what a whole new year will bring? Happy New Year.

Mendip Grandad

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Health roadshow

THE Creating Health Roadshow is heading for Shepton Mallet in January after successful events in Street and Wells last year.

The free event offers a varied and fun evening of information and inspiration to help you successfully manage type 2 diabetes, or shed those Christmas pounds in a healthy and long-lasting way.

Dr Campbell Murdoch, a Somerset GP, will give a simple explanation of the science of nutrition and health which is proving successful for so many across the world.

There will be info to take with you, healthy tasters for you to try, a free raffle with great prizes, a chance to meet local health-related organisations and charities, and an optional Tai Chi class at the end.

It will be held at Shape Shepton Council Chambers, Cannards Grave Road on Thursday January 25th, from 6.45pm. Booking is essential.

Details: info@creating-health.org.uk or text 07904 804524 to book your place www.creating-health.org.uk

• 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 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 62 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

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HEALTH & FAMILY

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Single and looking for a social life . . . then join Wells & Mendip Single Social Group

Singles at Stourhead

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

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WELLS and Mendip Single Social Group recently visited Stourhead, where 16 of them met for coffee before embarking on a lakeside walk around the breathtaking 18th century landscape with grottos and classical temples, stopping often to enjoy the flaming autumn colours reflected in the lake.

The group meets regularly to enjoy outings to National Trust properties as well as music nights, skittles, Christmas and summer parties, meals out and the weekly bar nights at their branches in Wells, Bath, Weston, Taunton, Exeter and Yeovil.

Mendip Times ONLINE

07584 250285

Or visit our website www.justintroductionsgroup.co.uk

Now in Hampshire Wiltshire and Dorset too.

Free access to all of our recent magazines from our website Free links to all of our advertisers’ websites Free links from our features and editorial pages More information – more enjoyment No annoying pop-ups – Mendip Times pure and simple A new service for readers and advertisers

www.mendiptimes.co.uk PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

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HEALTH & FAMILY

A friendly home from home

COURT House is a family-run business and has been since it was started 31 years ago by Pearl and Brian Dando.

The aim was to create somewhere with a homely atmosphere and everyone that visits agrees that this is still the case.

It is now ran by the next generation, sons Christopher and James, who continue with the same ethos and values. Residents all bring their own furniture, staff don’t wear uniforms and the walls are not covered in notice boards.

There are three different areas to Court House, all with a different feel.

The main Georgian house has a grand entrance hall and drawing room. The purpose-built Courtyard, built in a Mediterranean style, has rooms have their own kitchenette. The peaceful Cottage has bags of character.

All of the rooms are en-suite and have telephone and television points as well as a nurse call system.

There are activities laid on such as a pianist who plays regularly, themed suppers arranged - the photo shows a

recent Italian themed supper – and visits to the local pub for lunch.

Residents are by no means expected to join in, they have the choice, which is also the case with all aspects of their daily living.

The superb location of Court House in

the centre of Cheddar village means that residents have wonderful views over the Mendip Hills and are also able to enjoy its village location meaning that they can continue to be part of the local community, which is actively encouraged.

COURT HOUSE A beautiful Georgian Retirement Home set in the lovely village of Cheddar, Somerset.

You can live your life to the full and choice is our favourite word

The Manager – Chris Dando 01934 742131 chriscourthouse@gmail.com Court House Retirement Home, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3RA MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 65

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An even warmer welcome

A WEEKEND of events and activities marked the official completion of months of building work to improve the layout and facilities at St Thomas’s church in Wells.

The events included a dedication service led by the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt. Rev. Peter Hancock.

A large area suitable for concerts, exhibitions and small services of worship has been created at the back of the main body of the church with a new servery and community room alongside.

Vicar Tobie Osmond said: “It has taken us six years from the vision to completion and we are delighted with the results.

“We wanted the church to become even more of a space available to the whole community. We are lucky to have a fantastic hall next door for large events, but wanted somewhere more intimate.”

The work was carried out by D’Ovidio Builders. Director Craig D’Ovidio said: “It has been a pleasure to work at St Thomas’s.”

Retired GP Jonathan Jelfs at the piano. Music, children’s activities and refreshments were on offer during the open day as well as tours of the new facilities

New year, new SOUP

WELLS’S own version of the television series Dragon’s Den returns in January.

Four local good causes will pitch for a share of hundreds of pounds at the Wells SOUP on Saturday, January 13th.

They are City of Wells Almshouses, Somerset Sight, Wells Little Theatre and Somerset Area Cruse Bereavement Care.

Wells SOUP – organised

by Wells Independents – offer guests a light lunch before representatives of the Master of ceremonies at Wells four charities make brief SOUP will be Paddy O’Hagan presentations. January’s sponsor is GFH estate agents, of Wells.

SOUP take place from 1-2pm at Seager Hall in Union Street. All welcome.

PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

The Rev. Tobie Osmond (second right) with some of the key members of the church team behind the project

Luke and Ryan play amongst the pews during a Place ‘n Space open day to showcase the new-look church to the local community

Lions roar into 2018

MEMBERS of Wells Lions Club are gearing up for two major fundraising events in 2018 as they celebrate becoming the fastest-growing voluntary service organisation in the community.

On Thursday, January 25th, in partnership with The Swan Hotel in Wells, the club is staging The Big Breakfast, a networking opportunity for all local business leaders to meet together socially and to learn more about its voluntary work.

All profits from the event will be earmarked for local charities and good causes which Wells Lions are supporting this year, including Children’s Hospice South West and Mendip YMCA. On Saturday, March 17th, the club will host Bristol Male Voice Choir for a fundraising concert to be held at St. Cuthbert’s Church in Wells. Last March, a similar concert at the church with the Caerphilly Male Voice Choir raised £3,500 for Wellsbased dementia charities. The beneficiary this year will be Children’s Hospice South West. For more information and to buy tickets, telephone 01458 210926 or email millerburt@btinternet.com ● The Big Breakfast will run from 7.30-10.30am. Tickets are £10 each. For details, call Paul Clegg on 01749 671596 or email paul.clegg@mac.com. Tickets are also available at The Swan Hotel in Wells.

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COMMUNITY

Competition winners

Giving club a leg-up

Shaza Lee being presented with the itermediate prize by local Rotary president, Chris Bales

Rotary president, Chris Bales, and community committee member, Robin Langford, are pictured with Leg Club officers Val Smith, Polly Cox, Carole Brook, and Glynis Woods

THE Rotary club of Nailsea and Backwell has chosen local winners in Rotary’s national photographic competition.

They are Shaza Lee, aged 13, and Rose Jones, aged 14, from Nailsea School, who will now forward to the district heats.

The judges, rotarians Roy Ackrill and Bob Keightley, and Peter Holt of Backwell Camera Club say they were impressed by the extremely high standard of entries.

THE Nailsea Leg Club, which provides community-based treatment, advice and support for people of all ages with legrelated problems, has received £874.44 from Rotary, Nailsea and Backwell from the proceeds of its annual walk and run day.

Its chair, Carole Brook, said: “The strong support that Rotary, Nailsea and Backwell has provided to the Leg Club since its inception has been very important to us. Support from Rotary and other organisations enabled the club to get off the ground and now help it to be a real success story.”

The club costs about £5,000 per year to run.

Details: www.nailsearotary.org or contact Graham on grahamjeanhunt@tiscali.co.uk 07970 771845.

A royal insight Rose with her winning photos

Almshouse tea in Shepton

Tea is served: guests gather in the Peter Street Rooms

THE charity which runs Shepton Mallet almshouses has hosted its annual tea for residents and guests.

Trustees of United Charities served the tea and guests were welcomed by chairman Jeff Curtis. Amongst them were Eileen O’Grady and Kathy Kingstone from Shepton’s “Knit & Chat” group, which made the almshouses their charity of the year, raising £1,250. Others included Deborah Towner, community champion from Tesco, Simon and Christina Kennedy, who were also representing the Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival and rector, the Rev. Jonathan Hunter Dunn.

John (right) with inner wheel president Jacky Emm and rotary president Ian Huxham

AWARD-winning documentary film-maker John Bridcut, who made “The Queen at 90", seen by more than ten million viewers on BBC TV, was the guest speaker at a joint Midsomer Norton and Radstock inner wheel and rotary club dinner at the Centurion Hotel.

John showed clips and gave fascinating insights into the many films he has made of the Royal Family over the years. John began his career as a journalist on The Spectator, moving on to the World at One, Newsnight and the Money Programme before forming his own company, Crux Productions, 15 years ago.

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Sharing a right royal date

TO celebrate the Queen and Prince Philip’s 70th wedding anniversary, Mendip District Council asked for local couples also celebrating their platinum wedding anniversary this year to come forward and celebrate with them.

Three couples came forward to share their stories – Don and Jean Kay from Glastonbury, Bill and Joan Perry from Glastonbury and Frank and Dorothy Beecher from Shepton Mallet who were all married in 1947.

Councillors Edward Drewe, John Brunsdon and Nick Cottle visited the couples at their homes to present them with a special gift and offer their congratulations.

Don and Jean Kay got engaged on New Year’s Eve 1946 and married in August 1947. They were aware of each other as they travelled to their schools on the same bus but didn't meet again until the war was over and Don was on his de-mob leave.

Bill and Joan Perry met one evening whilst out with friends in Glastonbury High Street, and after a two-year engagement married in the May of 1947. Bill peacefully passed away shortly after the couple’s 70th wedding anniversary and is greatly missed.

Frank and Dorothy Beecher married on the September 13th, 1947, and the number 13 has since always been their lucky number. Originally from Kent, Frank and Dorothy moved to

Shepton Mallet 30 years ago when they retired in 1987 to spend more time with their family.

Councillor Edward Drewe, chair of Mendip District Council, said: “It was great to recognise the Queen and Prince Philip’s special anniversary by offering residents of Mendip who are also celebrating their platinum wedding anniversary a special gift.

“It was wonderful to meet the families and hear the stories about how they met, and we would like to thank them all for welcoming us in to their homes.”

Frank and Dorothy Beecher with Cllr Edward Drewe

Joan Perry with (l to r) Cllr Edward Drewe, Mary Parsons, her sister, Yvonne Fouracre, her daughter, Helen Perry, her daughter, and Cllr Nick Cottle

Frank and Dorothy Beecher's wedding PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Don and Jean Kay with councillors Edward Drewe and John Brunsdon

Bill and Joan Perry's wedding

Don and Jean Kay's wedding

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Lanterns are ready for lighting

CHILDREN were optional at lantern making workshops in Shepton Mallet ahead of the town’s festival parade on Saturday, December 23rd.

Originally aimed at families, organisers were delighted to welcome people of all ages to the workshops in the Paul Street Community Centre over three weekends in December. And they are confident they will beat last year’s total of 150 lanterns, judging by the popularity of the workshops.

Helping hands – the workshops have appealed to young and old alike

COMMUNITY

Jasper (centre) looks a little puzzled as sister Ebony (left) and mum Amanda work on the family’s lanterns

Let there be light – Thali (right) is enthralled as mum Holly and dad Andy work on their lantern but two-month-old Moby sleeps on blissfully unaware

The parade will gather by the bandstand in Collett Park at 6pm before the procession – led by drummers and dancers – makes its way to the town centre. For details, visit: www.sheptonlanternfestival.org.uk

Full house at Camerton

ONE of the new ventures started at Camerton Community Centre has got off to a great start.

The monthly talks have proved very popular, the last one attracting a good-sized audience.

It was a joint event with the Radstock Museum who loaned the film Mining Memories to the centre.

Most of the audience could not believe the hardships the miners and their wives had to go through, from the gus and crook to going home covered in coal dust before pit-head baths.

Some of the miners in the film talked about the many accidents that occurred daily at the pits, one described how he lost a finger.

On the night it was great to have in the audience two of the miners in the film, Alex Hann and Selwyn Rees, who

answered many questions over a cup of tea at the end.

There are mince pies, coffee or tea after the talks when questions can be put to the speakers.

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

All the fun of the Frost Fayre

SEVERAL thousand visitors packed Glastonbury town centre for the annual Frost Fayre celebrations which kickstarted the festive season.

More than 140 stalls filled the High Street and Benedict Street and there were festive markets in the United Reformed, St Benedict’s and St John’s churches.

Live music took places on the Melodrome stage at the top of the high street, outside the town council offices and at two “Busk Stops” in the town centre. There was free admission to Glastonbury Abbey where entertainment included a performance by the Street Choir.

Town crier David Greenway with Morgana West, from the Glastonbury Pilgrim Reception Centre, holding the town’s Unity Candle. The theme of the fayre was “peace and goodwill to all”

Josh Westbrook from the Cut and Thrust Collective of blacksmiths, who run a school and workshop PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Jean and Ed Growney

Blue skies and late autumn sunshine welcomed visitors to Glastonbury Abbey and the Abbot’s Kitchen

Visitors throng the High Street

The procession through the High Street

A nose for a prize: the 4th Glastonbury Scout Group ran a “find the golden bogey” stall. Dylan and Dorothy, who tried their hand on the stall, are watched by The Headmaster, from the Tor Theatre Group

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First class service

FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

TOPLINE Catering have vast experience in catering for all types of events in all sorts of venues and when it comes to weddings, they are the experts!

Their friendly and relaxed approach to organising a memorable occasion helps reduce the stress and strain that can spoil the excitement of planning your dream day.

From the initial enquiry, the subsequent menu planning and sourcing of great local ingredients through to service on the day – everything is discussed, arranged and carried out in a slick and professional manner with pleasant and helpful staff ensuring that the event runs smoothly and all guests are properly looked after.

Don't just stick to the traditional: Topline Catering offer an imaginative barbecue option or big pan and sharing platter menus, as well as the usual hot meal and fork buffet menus.

Ethical choice

WITH the general awareness of eco-friendly and ethically sourced products rising, wedding and engagement rings can now be made to fit both budget and a clear conscience. Erica Sharpe Fine Jewellery in Wedmore creates all new commissions in either Fairtrade or re-claimed precious metals. She also specialises in recycling customer’s existing gold and gemstones into beautiful jewellery. This year Erica won a gold award in the South West Fairtrade Business Awards in the Fairtrade Retailer category.

WE CAN ARRANGE YOUR HEN AND STAG PARTY . . . ALSO LET US ARRANGE THAT VERY SPECIAL HONEYMOON

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Mendip Times reduces travel costs 100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 71

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Winscombe Shopping Night

Fun on the Ferris wheel

CROWDS flocked into Winscombe for the village’s Christmas Shopping Night, where they were entertained by choirs and festive fare.

Unfortunately the donkeys due at Global Independent Travel proved too stubborn to get into their trailer! Lisa Weakley and her team say they were sorry to disappoint local youngsters.

Local butchers Litsters offered seasonal food during the evening

Winscombe Community Choir

Ladies from Churches Together in their nativity costumes

Wrington Vale Inner Wheel

Father Christmas arrives from his parade PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Sidcot School choir

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Pensford

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

F ro m e F e s t i v e N i g h t

Drummers in the Samba Parade

Father Christmas, with (l to r) Karen Lawrence, Lola, and Jess Flack

PENSFORD Hall committee's annual Christmas fair raised just over £600 for the hall funds. Organiser, Steve Lawrence, said: “I'd like to say that the Christmas Fair was a great success. A great day was had by all, and we had a large variety of stallholders, which kept the customers happy.”

Samba dancers in the grand parade

Pa u l t o n

PAULTON’S library volunteers were in festive mood as they celebrated their annual gathering with their lead organising volunteer, Kathleen Still.

B&NES councillor Liz Hardman, who organised the annual gathering, said: “We owe so much to our volunteers here in The Hub Library. Without them we would not be able to open five and a half days a week.”

Visitors to Santa's grotto

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 73

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NEWS

Choir honours former member

A YEAR of fundraising in memory of former choir member Tony Pickett culminated in a sell-out concert and a total of £12,440 being raised for the British Heart Foundation.

Tony, 62, who lived in Frome, died of a heart attack whilst cycling in July 2016. He sang both in the Bath Male Choir and the mixed-voice Bath Chorus, both led by Grenville Jones.

Throughout the past year many fundraising events were organised by choir members. In March, Simon Kale raised more than £5,800 running the London Marathon and other local events and concert boosted the figure for the final total.

The finale concert at St Michael’s Church in Bath was attended by Tony’s partner, Ginette Draisey and members of

Art competition winner

Ginette Draisey and daughter Alice with Grenville Jones and the Bath Male Choir.

his family. Ginette told the audience and singers: “I can’t thank you all enough for this past year, not just the amazing money raised but for your support that has helped carry me through.”

cathedral, said: “It was great to be involved in such a community inspired project which celebrates what a wonderful, beautiful city we live in.”

Precentor of Wells Cathedral, Canon Nicholas Jepson-Biddle, who was one of the judging team, added: “The cathedral never fails to inspire artists and musicians. The beautiful and characterful composition was wonderful.”

POLICE cadets in Street and a community “champion” in Norton St. Philip were amongst the recipients of the 2017 Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Pride Awards.

They were amongst 16 winners of the awards taking place at the police and fire HQ in Portishead. Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “I consider it one of the best bits of my role, hosting the Pride Awards and hearing more about how local people are going above and beyond in their communities. I am delighted that so many people have chosen to nominate these ‘silent stars’, all who go about their daily business with little or no recognition.”

Kay Barrett was nominated for her efforts in setting up Hands of Change, a voluntary group in Burnham-on-Sea with more than 500 members. Kay said: “It’s a community based group of volunteers and we do lots of things in the area including

donating furniture, setting up groups for the elderly, gift boxes at Christmas for the homeless, food runs and just generally help people when they need it.”

For the past 20 years, Councillor Rex Eastment has worked tirelessly on behalf of his community to make the parish of Norton St. Philip a safer place for all who live there. He said: “This award isn’t just for me, but for all of the people that support and help from both of the villages I work in.”

The Street Volunteer Police Cadets were nominated as a unit for their collective efforts and dedication to their voluntary role.

Representatives Laura and Millieanne said: “We’re honoured to accept this ahead on behalf of the unit, as it shows what together we do and how we’re happy to be able to serve our community.

As a cadet, you learn some brilliant skills, such as first aid training and we have all recently become dementia friends.”

(l-r): Caroline Thornborough, Chris Winter, Nicholas JepsonBiddle, Martin Banner and Chris Goodwin

Pride awards given to community champions

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

(Photograph courtesy of Philip Welch)

MARTIN Banner, from Wedmore, has been presented with his prize – a mounted canvas print of his own painting – after winning the first ART 360° competition in Wells.

Artists of all ages and abilities gathered on Wells Cathedral Green in August to capture their surroundings. The event was organised by the Wells Civic Society and supported by Wells Cathedral and the Armandine Gallery. The works were exhibited in the West Cloister of the Cathedral.

Martin won the overall prize, but art materials donated by the gallery were sent to the winners of the under-10 and 11-18 sections. “It was a lovely day;” Martin said, “nice to take the opportunity to join in. It was not for the prize – that was a nice surprise!”

Chris Goodwin, from the gallery, said: “The Armandine Gallery was thrilled to support the ART 360° event. We would like to congratulate Martin on the winning painting and hope he hangs his giclee reproduction that we did for him in pride of place.”

Chris Winter, civic society chair, said: “Young and not-soyoung, expert and novice came together to enjoy a wonderful, creative day. Special thanks too to Clare Blackmore and Hilary Waters, who worked so hard to make it a great day.”

Caroline Thornborough, the marketing and events officer at the

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PROPERTY

A busy 2017 for David James & Partners IT’S been a busy year for David James & Partners Limited, with the updating of the brand name to include the logo Dj&p and the acquisition of Newland Rennie in Monmouthshire, which saw the company’s expansion and diversification plans come into full force, ready to meet the new market in 2018.

Shown below is an example of their successful sales throughout Somerset, from period houses, cottages, farms and barns, David James & Partners can take your property from conception, design, planning and sale.

Woodland Farm at Loxton on the

Sharon Everett

LD

LD

Nr Wedmore, Guide Price £600,000

SO

Hu on, Nr Weston-super-Mare, Guide Price £425,000

Richard Nancekivell

slightly less land coming to the market.

This fits with the national statistics produced to date. Demand is still high however, and prices have stayed strong despite Brexit uncertainty. Top price per acre for bare land in 2017 was £36,000 per acre.

Other notable sales included the Cheddar Machinery sale in October, with a great number of vendors and over 300 lots of machinery entered. With more than 200 buyers registered on the day there was fierce bidding for the different lots with a wide range of machinery available from tools to tractors.

Finally David James & Partners at Wrington would like to wish all their friends and clients a very Happy and Healthy New Year.

LD

SO

SO

LD

western end of the Mendip Hills, a freerange chicken farm with some 100 acres of pasture, sold in July; at Wick St Lawrence, David James gained the planning for three agricultural barns for conversion and then sold a barn, an old dairy and the main farmhouse – three in a row!

Nestled in the lea of Mendip woodland at Hutton is Woodland Cottage with four acres of land and garden, which sold on November 17th. May Tree Farm at Stone Allerton with its splendid garden was sold in September and a smallholding in Banwell with seven acres and outbuildings was sold in December.

Good sales are in the pipeline with equestrian properties, building plots, barns for conversion and straightforward family houses in Somerset and Chew Valley villages. If you would like a free assessment of your own property just give them a call in the New Year 01934 864307 and speak with Sharon Everett in their residential team.

David James & Partners are also well known for their sale of land. This year the land market has been a bit slower, with

SO

Loxton, Somerset Guide Price £1,350.000

LD

Wick St Lawrence, N. Somerset Guide Price £850,000

LD

SO

SO

Stone Allerton, Guide Price £725,000

Nr Banwell, Guide Price £630,000

Wrington 01934 864300 MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 75

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Santa, snakes and slime!

AN abseiling Santa, exotic reptiles and some quirky stalls were amongst the features of this year’s Christmas celebrations in Bruton.

They were joined by birds of prey and several choirs for the evening which saw hundreds of people throng the High Street.

Slime for sale: Flo, Leah and Clemmie, pupils at Bruton School for Girls, try out the slime they made. Ten per cent of the proceeds was going to Bath Cats and Dogs Home

The crowd watches below as Santa abseils from the roof of At The Chapel

Members of the Bru Tones Choir singing in the High Street

Dawn, from Bruton Country Store, with Jess, a European kestrel owned by Speringcourt animal rescue Emily, Hannah and Claire from Community Kids pre-school

PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Young handlers from the Pitcombe Rock Falconry rescue centre with their charges

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Wrington Dickensian Fayre

Wrington WI members Franca Knight (left) and Julie Harnett

Father Christmas called by courtesy of Yeo Valley Lions

Children from the village primary school

Yeo Valley Explorers

The event attracted big crowds

Chairman Jeremy Birkett MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 77

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CAVING

Celebrating new discoveries

AT the end of last year cavers gathered at the Hunters’ Lodge Inn for the ninth J-Rat Cave Digging Awards. This is held in memory of one of Mendip’s keenest cavers and diggers, Tony Jarratt, who died in 2008.

Tony’s last words to his fellow cavers With PHILIP were “Keep on Diggin” and every year an HENDY award is made to the team which has found the longest new cave. This must have been found on or around Mendip, or in Scotland, another area where Tony was very active.

There were four close contenders this time, two from Mendip and two from Scotland. The Scottish cavers won the award some years ago and they took it again, with a new cave, 302.5 metres long, discovered in Applecross, Wester Ross.

Poll Breugair (Liar’s Sink) was dug into by members of the Grampian Speleological Society. The entrance lies amongst boulders to the side of a small waterfall. Three metres down they found an inlet series which led to a large stream passage.

Parts of the cave are very well decorated, with stalactites and flowstone. The passage led to a high chamber in thinlybedded shale. This chamber is in two parts, separated by a rock bridge.

The two parts were named Canada Chamber after a female Canadian caver who was in on the original discovery, and Waterfall Chamber. Here they came to the foot of a waterfall.

The team climbed up opposite this, and the initial plan was to build a bridge across to the top of the cascade, but instead a six-metre traverse was engineered and they entered the streamway.

Shortly afterwards, another entrance, Flood Cave, was entered at the sink. Off the streamway above the waterfall, beyond a section of boulder breakdown, a low draughting duck was passed which led to a muddy crawl and a triangular passage with a flat roof, The Sanctuary. Prospects look good for connecting this cave with others in the area.

Uncabac, another Scottish cave in Assynt, Sutherland, has been extended by 72 metres, also by the Grampian Speleological Society, but this discovery only managed to take fourth place. Second and third were taken by Mendip caves.

Pearl Mine is a lead working on Sandford Hill. It was first explored by cavers in 1949 before the entrance collapsed. It was reopened, and then lost again when a quarry track was bulldozed past it and rubble fell into the shaft. Members of the Mendip Caving Group spent many years opening up a blocked miners’ shaft in the First Crossroads of Sandford Levvy at the foot of the hill.

It was apparent that the shaft had been sunk from above and the nearest likely place to investigate was Pearl Mine. This has a 21-metre entrance shaft, with a cross gallery at the bottom, and another 15 metres from the surface. After much hard work, this gallery was reached, and at the end was a tiny hole emitting a draught.

The aperture was enlarged and the diggers entered walking-

Toby Speight receiving the award

size natural passage with evidence of mining activity. Apart from the pick marks, there are the imprints of three childsized fingers in the mud. There is also a sandstone sharpening block, and the skeletons of a hare and a bat, lying together.

Further digging in this passage allowed entry to the lower level at the foot of the entrance shaft. Here they found the eponymous pearls, a nest of white rounded calcite pebbles, formed as mineral was deposited, but kept loose and rounded by dripping water. Three of them are missing, but according to the photographers who recorded them shortly before the mine was closed, they were left where they lay. These pearls were reputedly the size of pigeon’s eggs.

Nearby was a dog skeleton, buried in miner’s deads. It was probably a pet. It appears that the miners did not actually enter Sandford Levvy from Pearl Mine, but the vein of lead was worked in several places, so entry may be made in due course from another mine. A lot of conservation work remains to be done before the mine can be opened for tourist trips.

The total length found and surveyed is 293 metres, but there is more passage to be explored and surveyed.

In third place was the 155-metre extension to Wigmore Swallet at Red Quar. This was found by the Welsh section of the Cave Diving Group. The far reaches of this cave are now entered through Home Close Hole, which by-passes nine sumps. Sump Ten was passed in 2016, and the passage, Wigmore Eleven, ends in yet another sump. This has been dived, but not conclusively.

However, halfway along the stream passage a steep muddy tube was found, which ends in a small chamber, Play Your Cards Right. Predictably, this has two digging options, Higher and Lower.

Martin Grass introduced cavers who each gave a short presentation of the progress in their own digs, and the J-Rat Digging Award was presented by Martin, Pete Glanvil and Stuart McManus to Toby Speight of the Grampian Speleological Society, who also gave an illustrated talk on the discovery in Liar’s Sink.

The award, a brass digging shovel mounted on a board with details of the winners, is on display at the Hunters’ Lodge. As usual, the evening was well attended by diggers and ordinary cavers. We left determined to redouble our efforts in our own digs, so maybe next year the award will be ours.

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 78 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

(Photograph by Phil Hendy)

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Road improvements completed

MOTORING

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

Bailey approved body shop and workshop

Kelvin Packer, B&NES group manager for highways and traffic, council leader, councillor Tim Warren and Councillor Charles Gerrish, cabinet member for Finance and Efficiency at the completed Two Headed Man junction

A £500,000 scheme to improve traffic at a major road junction in North East Somerset known as the Two Headed Man has been completed.

Bath and North East Somerset Council, together with the West of England Combined Authority and Local Enterprise Partnership, has invested in the scheme aimed at significantly reducing peak-time queues at the junction on the A39.

Around 5,000 vehicles each day use the lightcontrolled junction which previously had one lane in each direction and caused turning vehicles to hold up traffic as they waited to turn. Improvement work has included widening the carriageway on each approach to two lanes to provide dedicated turning lanes at the A39/B3116 junction.

Further improvements to motorists’ journey times are planned to the A39/A368 junction at Marksbury in 2018, subject to grant funding.

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Radstock Museum

Children's activities were popular

Jenny Sloper and Paul Collings

Paulton senior citizens’ lunch

Teaching traditional skills

Children from Paulton Junior School singing carols at the Christmas lunch

TURKEY, tinsel and carols greeted over 40 of Paulton’s senior citizens at their Christmas lunch, with food cooked and served by Tesco staff.

It was organised by June Drake, treasurer, who along with June Maggs, chairman, and Pat Jones, secretary, are responsible for the senior citizens’ lunch which is held on the second Wednesday of the month in the scout and guide hut.

All are welcome.

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Some of the volunteers and guests

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Outdoor nativity

Publow

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Lyndsay Cooper, Gillian Wookey and Janet Smith on the home baking stall

ALL Saints’ Church Christmas market raised £2,180 for church funds. It was held at the church rather than the usual venue at Pensford Church Rooms, with lots of stalls, activities and refreshments.

Next February the market will return to its usual venue on the first Saturday of the month, 10am-11.30am.

CAMELEY Primary School decided to take the nativity outside with parents and children thoroughly enjoying the experience.

Taking part were the reception children and early learners, helped by a donkey called Wonkey and two sheep called Diddyman and Lulu.

Catriona Ree and the Rev Sue Stevens on the Christmas decoration stall

Christmas trees

Margaret West, Maureen Cox, Michael Plunkett and Christiana Olomolaiye

A CHRISTMAS tree festival held at the Congregational Church, Timsbury proved to be a big success, raising funds for the charity Crisis at Christmas. It was organised by Timsbury Christians Together and was supported and sponsored by local businesses and organisations.

Joan Williams and Jane Flower on the book stall

Details: Judith Hillman 01761 490324, Janet Smith 01761 490584 or Gillian Wookey 01761 490336.

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 81

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We h the arts!

By Mark Adler

JUDGING by the screams of delight which greeted Craig Johnson and his one man show – with friends – at Bowlish Infant School in Shepton Mallet, arts and creativity are alive and well in the town.

The Cornwall-based storyteller and performer thrilled youngsters with his offbeat Christmas show along with a walkabout in the playground with “Rocky the Dinosaur” amongst children and their parents.

Craig’s visit to Bowlish, along with a show at Shepton Mallet Infant School, was part of an ongoing series of events organised by Plays in the Playground – a theatre programme in schools funded by Theatre Royal Bath Creative Fund, Wells Festival of Literature and Shepton Mallet Town Council.

The organisers have carried out a survey of parents in the town whose children attend the two schools – along with St Paul’s Junior School – which shows overwhelming support for the arts. In total, 74 families completed the survey on a scale of one-ten with one being unimportant and ten being very important.

When asked: “How important do you feel being creative is for your child’s education?” 97% of respondents rated it of crucial importance with 61% scoring it the maximum.

Families were also asked how important they feel it is to have an arts space, library or theatre in the centre of Shepton Mallet.

Again 95% of respondents rated it of critical importance with 52% scoring it the maximum ten out of ten.

However, the survey highlighted a

Sheer delight on the faces of Bowlish youngsters as Craig, from Squashbox Theatre, brought his Christmassy Show of Christmassy Christmasness to the school

contrast in terms of the survey results between how many opportunities people have to participate in cultural activities and how highly they value it. Sixty-six per cent of people had either been to the theatre once or not at all in the past 12 months and 44% of respondents said they participated in cultural activities once a year or never (37% stating that they never participated in cultural activities).

Louise Lappin-Cook, organiser of Plays in the Playground and a Shepton resident, said: “The survey gives a very strong indication that arts and culture are of fundamental importance to local families – not just in terms of the personal and educational development opportunities they offer to young people in schools and at home, but in terms of how they enrich the town and local environment for everyone.

“Shepton now has no operational theatre and the possibility of the library moving location means this would be the removal of the last public community space in the centre of Shepton Mallet. This survey

Craig and “Rocky” meet youngsters and their families in the playground

clearly highlights the importance local families place on putting cultural provision at the heart of our town.”

Louise said many respondents identified lack of transport, local provision and money as their key reasons for not having full access to cultural activities.

Sue Rye, from the Wells Festival of Literature Education team, added: “Profits from Wells Festival of Literature have always been used for educational projects, with the aim of giving children an opportunity to experience the excitement of literature and the power of the spoken word. This survey underlines the value that families place on culture and the arts, which foster the creativity and imagination that are increasingly important in all aspects of today's changing world. Good access to a library and Initiatives such as Plays in the Playground are instrumental in developing these qualities and inspiring young people, and that is why the festival is delighted to support this ongoing project in Shepton Mallet schools.”

All smiles in the playground

To find out more about Plays in the Playground, visit: https://playsintheplayground.wordpress.com/ or on Twitter: @louisearts

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

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MUSIC & THEATRE

Singing in a choir is no joke – but it seems lots of fun

By Mark Adler

TRY singing – in tune, as a group and waving your arms in the air – the answers to this Christmas cracker joke: “Why wouldn't the lobster share his toys? Because he was shellfish.”

Or how about this one: “What’s the name for a reindeer with no eyes? No idea.”

Well, you get the idea. And, if you do, the warm-up routines for a typical rehearsal of the Mendip Male Voice Choir could be the stepping stone to indulging in a love of communal singing.

There are plenty of laughs in Timsbury when the choir gathers at the start of its weekly rehearsals – and not just at musical director Jamie Knights’s corny warm-up routine to relax the larynxes. The camaraderie on a chill December night at St Mary’s School in the village is matched only by the banter, until Jamie announces the start of the business end of the evening.

Despite the humour and welcoming atmosphere, this is a choir that means business; it will, after all, celebrate its centenary in 2019. Members come from all walks of life: chairman, Peter Beaven, is a retired headteacher, along with several other members of the profession. They can also count a farmer, retained fireman and security guard in the ranks of tenors, baritones and bass singers.

Age is not a barrier; the choir welcomes young singers from 16years-old to older canaries – the eldest current member is 86.

Peter said: “It’s all about the joy of singing together and we welcome people will all experience and none. Singing as a group is exhilarating and great fun.”

A recent concert at Timsbury Church was a sell-out and the choir often sing with counterparts, such as The Silver Ring of Bath and the Cantilena choirs in Keynsham. The concert was organised by the rotary clubs of Keynsham and Chelwood Bridge in aid of Keynsham & Saltford Dementia Action Alliance and Children’s Hospice South West.

Sing – it’s something simple to join the choir

Rehearsals are fun, but the aim is to be pitch perfect

All are welcome to apply to join the choir. For details, visit: www.mendipmen.co.uk

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.

Jamie Knights, the choir’s musical director for the past four years

Come and find our more or call chairman Peter Beaven on 01761 233841 MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 83

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Bishop Sutton celebrates Christmas

Some of the cast (l to r) Abraham Gray (Eric Price), Squire Trelawney (Pete Wells), Thomas Redruth (Chris Ryan), Jim Hawkins (Tom Hope), Mr Arrow (Eddie Catchpole), Henrietta Hawkins (Nick Warbrick) and Dick Johnson (Dave Duckett).

SUTTON Theatre Company’s production of Treasure Island proved to be a laugh-a-minute production, crammed with songs, which put everyone in a happy mood.

Written and directed by Scott Deacon-Church, everyone’s favourite characters were on board, from young Jim Hawkins, Blind Pew and Cap’n Flint to Black Dog, Billy Bones and mad Ben Gunn, and not forgetting a memorable baddie by the name of Long Joan Silver.

The village hall was packed for the fayre

BISHOP Sutton Pre-School hosted the Chew Valley Christmas Fayre, packing the village hall with more than 200 Christmas shoppers, raising more than £1,500 for the facility.

Annabelle Spinney, chair of the pre-school parent committee, said: “It was an absolute Christmas cracker of a fundraiser for us.

“The amazing support from so many local businesses and the wider community too has helped us to raise these allimportant funds for Bishop Sutton Pre-School. We are planning to develop the outside play area for the children and this amount will really help us to create something extra special.”

Wedmore

Emborough

Preparing the village church – usually closed – for its annual Christmas service (l to r) Jo Palmer, Nicky Wheeler, Rosemary Davies and Kay Trippick

Timsbury

More than 30 trees decorated Timsbury Congregational Church.

Mum Rachael is pictured with children Poppy and Harry.

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

The crib service at St Mary's

Birtle Silver Band

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HOMES & INTERIORS

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MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 85

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The art of living in the country THERE are few greater pleasures in life than waking to a crisp autumn morning with the sun streaming through your bedroom window. Across the road the sheep chew contentedly and the world, with all its troubles, is still a beautiful place.

When Brenda and Barrie Hardman moved to their home at the foot of Brent Knoll in 1979 they found the house of their dreams. Now 38 years on they say it still is.

Brenda said: “We simply love it here. The love affair started when we first saw the house and nothing has changed. We’re very fortunate to live in such a wonderful part of Somerset.”

Both Brenda and Barrie are professional, qualified artists.

Their house and garden reflect their eye for detail and that enviable ability to put everything in exactly the right place.

The atmosphere they have created immediately puts you at ease and says “relax and enjoy your time here”.

The property, built in 1840, has a large annexe where their son, Rob, lives. As with most Victorian houses the proportions are near-perfect and each room has its own character and charm. The hallway has an elegant staircase and the William Morris wallpaper (with a drop of eight metres or more) is simply a thing of wonder. Were this a stately home the wallpaper alone would be worth the entry fee!

With a house such as this changes and renovation must be carefully considered or there is a real risk of making costly errors. That’s why Brenda and Barrie took four years before they finally decided to replace the much-admired windows at the front of their property.

HOMES & INTERIORS

Barrie said: “The windows were beautiful but, exposed to the weather, required constant maintenance; condensation was also a huge problem.”

After much deliberation on the appropriate style for replacement windows the Hardmans chose sliding sash windows from Kingfisher.

Brenda said: “We chose Kingfisher because we know, from past experience, how high they set the bar when it comes to quality. The fitting team of Dan, Nathan and Bob were not only courteous but highly skilled too. Quite simply, they were a joy to have around.”

The new windows have made the rooms lighter and warmer.

For Barrie and Brenda their love affair with their home goes on and on.

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MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 87

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Tincknell Fuels’ fundraising

• • • •

PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

CHIMNEY LINERS SECURITY LIGHTING ROOF REPAIRS GUTTER, FASCIAS AND WINDOW CLEANING

THE directors of Tincknell Fuels decided to choose Breast Cancer Awareness as the charity they wished to support this year and pledged to donate a specific amount for every delivery and every service they performed throughout October.

They had stickers prepared to place on their trucks and vans driving through the countryside showing their support and all the staff decided to get on board for this amazing cause and raise funds as well.

Head office staff were “Wearing it Pink” on October 20th at a coffee morning with delicious cakes made by staff and friends and over the whole month they were also raising funds with weekly quizzes and other events.

Managing director, Rob Ormond, said: "We are delighted that the staff has come together on this and raised such an incredible amount. And we are pleased to announce the final figure raised for Breast Cancer Awareness in October is £2,500.

“Breast cancer is all too common and we are delighted to support this worthwhile cause on behalf of our loyal customers and staff.”

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HOMES & INTERIORS

MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018 • PAGE 89

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Happy New Year to all our friends

AS the year closes and the next begins, it’s traditional to pause and remember absent and departed friends.

Check the meaning of “friends/friendships” and you will find definitions ranging from “attachment” and “intimacy” to “companionship, rapport, With RACHEL camaraderie and understanding”.

THOMPSON So, who are our friends? Besides those MBE companions with whom we choose to spend our time, our horses, with whom we share a deep attachment, are our friends. What about those who help us care for our equine friends through bad times and good? The farrier, the vet, the saddler and the feed store assistant.

Those who provide more than just a service through listening, dispensing advice and cheering us up by providing a bit of banter and a word of encouragement when we need it – through the years don’t they become our friends too?

Sometimes those friends need our support and loyalty – especially in uncertain times. I mulled this over with my farrier – who is also my friend – and with whom I share a six-weekly news (gossip) bulletin. Pouncing on his 2018 diary I gleefully booked up his services selecting all my favourite dates for the year: “That’s loyalty for you!”, he said.

He and I stretch back over 40 years to my teens when I used to take my first pony, Danny, to the Chewton Mendip shop yard for shoeing. Once he had finished his morning job delivering the milk for Pullin’s dairy, in the afternoons the coal forge was lit with firelighters and twigs and the horses got shod.

Bill Garrett

PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

Meeting up with Julia Garrett

Two seemingly unconnected news items announced on Facebook caused me to consider what price we might put on friendship and loyalty. First, an invitation (to everyone) to celebrate Garrett Saddlers’ 50th year of trading by popping in for wine, tea and goodies on December 22nd and 23rd.

Danny the pony was the reason I originally met Bill Garrett.

Dragging me up the steps to his workshop my mother managed to charm Bill into parting with a beautiful Hayes saddle for a price she could afford – which wasn’t much. Bill was great with kids. Once a Household Cavalry riding instructor, he and his wife Sheila came to Mendip in 1963 and soon found it the ideal centre for producing riding school ponies.

Teaching local children to ride, working with the charity Riding for the Disabled soon followed along with providing summer holidays so that London children could benefit from horses and countryside. The tack business started in 1967 when Bill suffered two broken ankles and, clearly bored, started making and repairing New Zealand rugs.

Visiting the workshop recently it doesn’t seem to have changed much. It smells wonderfully of an accumulation of 50 years of leather, saddle soap and oil intermingled with countless horses. Julia Garrett works here now, using leather working tools and the skills handed down from previous generations.

Over 50 years, Garretts’ master saddlers have not only supplied the riding community but also fashioned ceremonial harness for the Sultan of Brunei, driving harness for the island of Sark, a rocket case that went up in space, calipers for baby elephants with rickets – numbering zoos, circus and the police amongst their many customers.

The other Facebook news was that Amazon CEO Jeff Bezo apparently became the first person in the world to amass a $100 billion fortune. This fortune is supplied by you and me. We all want low prices and the instant gratification afforded by doorstep delivery. But sometimes that comes at a price to one of our friends. Camaraderie, shared memories, history and skills take a long time to learn. Support and experiences that are so readily passed over the counter? You can’t buy those from Amazon, can you?

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RIDING

Looking for another legend?

IN jump racing, all roads lead to the iconic Cheltenham Festival in March and on Saturday, February 17th, Wincanton Racecourse proudly stages the Kingwell Hurdle that attracts possible Champion Hurdle contenders.

In a relationship that started with the outstanding 1970s hurdler Bula, the Kingwell Hurdle has long had ties with the festival's opening day feature race, the Champion Hurdle. In 1971, a golden time for two-mile hurdlers, Bula came up against three-time Champion Hurdle winner Persian War in the Kingwell Hurdle.

Bula emerged triumphant from the match and repeated the feat against his rival a few weeks later at Cheltenham.

Bula’s back-to-back Kingwell and subsequent Champion Hurdle victories sparked a trend that has been continued through the years, with a massive 81% of Kingwell Hurdle winners going on to run in the Champion Hurdle.

The whole raceday at Wincanton has been sponsored by Betway and provides a perfect festival curtain-raiser for contenders and racegoers alike with plenty of entertainment on and off the course.

Advanced tickets start from just £16.

Meanwhile, Wincanton Racecourse also anticipates their Boxing Day raceday being a sold-out fixture, with advance sales outperforming former years. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance with prices starting from £10 in the course enclosure with complimentary entry for children aged 17 years and under when accompanied by an adult. Complimentary admission tickets are required for children. Gates open on Boxing Day at 10.30am with a seven-race card off at 12.25pm.

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Out with the old, in with the new . . .

IT’S the start of a new year and maybe there’s a new bike from Christmas waiting to be used. If not there will still be an opportunity to get a good discount on last year’s models as manufacturers release new versions.

And of course you can never have too many bikes. For keen cyclists the number of CYCLING bikes you need is n+1 where n is the number with EDMUND LODITE of bikes you already have!

Nowadays there are many different types of bike to cater for a wide range of uses e.g. commuting, road, track, trails etc. But there are also improvements in technology that continue to drive the demand for newer bikes. Yet, the basic shape and arrangement of a bicycle hasn’t changed that much since the first chain-driven model was developed around 1885.

Modern bikes are lighter, more efficient and faster. Whilst that can be very satisfying you have to remember that the bike that made the difference not you. Older bikes are simpler and continue to have an enduring appeal for enthusiasts.

In my early years, I’d take my bike apart down to the last ball bearings and put it back together. When you do that, you know your bike. Part of the romance and beauty of old steel-framed bikes is driven by nostalgia and a yearning to be reminded of the era that you grew up in.

On a trip to the Alps a few years ago an Italian lady, who had parked at the summit of Croix de Fer, spotted one of our group with a “Coppi” bike. Fausto Coppi was a famous Italian who dominated cycling in the years each side of the Second World War. “Coppi” she shouted at us again and again.

For her this was not just a bicycle. This was pride in seeing the Italian’s name at the top of one of the big climbs which Fausto had ridden. That second-hand bike had been much more than a way of getting to the top of a mountain climb; it had triggered memories and passion in a passer-by.

In the French region of Provence stands Mont Ventoux one of the most iconic mountains in the Tour de France. A couple of years ago, I cycled up this famous mountain with a friend and the next morning we visited Bedoin, where the climb starts.

There we came across a museum housing a private collection of bicycles and memorabilia. The unassuming building housed an Aladdin’s cave of very early bicycles, jerseys, photos, posters and pennants which belonged to champion cyclists. With bikes going as far back as 1900 the museum chronicled the evolution of the bicycle, including some bikes used by stage winners in the Tour de France.

As the guide reached the end of all the bikes on display, it was clear he had a passion for these old machines. Besides explaining how bikes had evolved he went on to tell the story of each bike, where and when it was made famous or about its rider. As we reached the last bike, he then looked excited and said: “There’s one more bike that we don’t normally display.”

He returned holding a lightweight carbon bike, aerodynamic, hardly any spokes, brightly coloured and said: “This is my bike!”

The moment was priceless; here was the genuine appreciation of the history and the romance of older bikes and the latest technology, both equally as important as each other.

Both old and new have their place and yet a bike is not just a bike. It’s where it has been that creates the memories and an emotional attachment. That’s why sometimes it’s very hard to say “out with the old”.

Cricketers planning for next season PREPARATIONS are already underway for the 2018 season at Midsomer Norton Cricket Club.

Members met at the Withies Lane clubhouse for their annual meeting and heard mixed reports about the club’s activities over the last 12 months.

On the field, first team skipper Nick Pang was able to report on the successful promotion campaign in 2017 which means that the club will be playing in the West of England Premier League Premier 2 Bristol/Somerset Division next season. Team spirit had been key in securing top spot in 2017.

For both the second team (captained by Dan Cox) and the thirds (captained by Robin Cray), the 2017 season ended in relegation, but Robin Cray was also able to report on successes for the club’s youth sides with the Under-11 team winning all its games.

Chairman Graeme King highlighted the ongoing success of the club’s social activities but was disappointed that the club was unable to secure the grants required to build the new changing rooms before the start of next season. The club will continue to seek funding and grants for this project and hopes to able to carry out this work in autumn 2018.

All the team captains thanked the scorers, the tea/refreshments providers and others for their contributions to the club in 2017 and all those present recognised the hard work of Phil Mortimer and Mike Ashwin in preparing the pitches.

Nick Pang and Dan Cox will continue as skippers of the 1st and 2nd teams in 2018 while a successor to third team captain Robin Cray will be identified at a later date. Robin was thanked for his work in recent seasons as third team captain.

New players of all abilities are always welcome at the club. For more information, contact Nick Potter (07872 383499 – Nick.Potter@uk.delarue.com) or Phil Mortimer (01761 413725/morts@tiscali.co.uk).

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Golf presentations

THE seniors’ section of Fosseway Golf Club celebrated another enjoyable season with a presentation lunch at the Centurion Hotel, Midsomer Norton.

It was an event tinged with sadness, however, following the death of the appointed captain John Appleton. His widow Anne attended and presented a new trophy to the seniors for the over75s competition.

The player of the year award for the Roger Tabb Trophy was shared between Mike Ricketts and Bill Lester. Pat Cray enjoyed another successful season winning the club championship for the Rupert Moore Cup, the Ted Cottle over-70s Cup and claiming the Bill Lester Trophy alongside Bob Smith.

A special presentation was made by secretary Ray Lake to Colin Moon who has relinquished his position of treasurer after many years of loyal service.

Tennis finals day

THE revival of Pensford tennis Club's championships has been a great addition to the club’s fast growing repertoire of competitions, according to club members, who also said that the finals day did not disappoint.

American tournament finalists Rae Kelly The mixed with Alan Burbridge, and Jennie Lloyd with doubles was won Clive Kibby

by Dan Church and Kathleen Burbridge, edging out Shaun and Bev Vallender. The ladies’ singles was won by Jennie Lloyd.

Dan Church also won the men’s singles, beating Alan Burbridge. The ladies’ doubles lasted two hours before Sally Whitemore and Ann Kirby overcame Bev Vallender and Alison Patey.

Later the American tournament gave members a chance to play with new players and get to know each other better. The overall men’s and ladies’ champions were Clive Kibby and Jennie Lloyd.

SPORT

Karate international – in Wrington

Training session

KIA Karate has clubs in Axbridge, Cheddar, Wrington and surrounding villages and is part of an international movement. Locally clubs are run by Sensei, Gerald Filer, third dan, and Stephen Linham, second dan with their chief instructor Sensei, Diego Giardina, ninth dan.

They promote anti bullying, fitness confidence and selfdefence. Students vary in ages from children to adults. They have various competitions with one recently in Wrington and one in April – in Sicily.

The first lesson is free and then it’s pay as you go for each lesson.

A previous international

Details: Anne Smith on 07843 946949.

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Celebrating our orchards

TRADITIONAL wassail ceremonies will be held across Mendip in January – but not just in rural orchards.

After the success of its first wassail event last January, the Midsomer Norton Society – the town’s civic society – will be staging another ceremony, on Saturday, January 20th. All are welcome to the free event which will begin in the town hall with the crowning of wassail royalty at midday.

On Wednesday, January 17th, the Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society will host its wassail at the community orchard in North Wootton, near Shepton Mallet. The bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm and the wassail ceremony – free to attend – will be followed by music and dancing in the village hall.

On Saturday, January 13th a wassail will be held on Glastonbury Tor, organised by the National Trust. Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/glastonbury-tor for details. The Rotary Club of Brue Valley will be holding its charity wassail at North Cadbury on Saturday, January 20th from 6pm at the Catash Inn. For details, visit: www.bruevalleyrotary.org On the same day, the Rotary Club of Burnham-on-Sea will be holding its wassail at Rich’s Cider Farm at Highbridge at 7pm.

Entertainment will follow the traditional ceremony. Tickets are £7.50 and proceeds will go to the Bristol Kidney Patient Association and local charities.

Tickets for the North Wootton wassail party are £7.50.

Call 01749 938044 or email secretary@midsomersetshow.org.uk

Wassail time is fast approaching

Museum volunteers Jo and Sandi demonstrate spinning and weaving at the museum

WASSAIL celebrations will return to the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury for the first time since its refurbishment and modernisation programme was completed.

The evening ceremony will take place on Saturday, January 13th and will be held in the historic Abbey Barn and amongst the apple trees in the orchard.

Mendip Times contributor Les Davies will be the master of ceremonies at the family-friendly event with music by local ceilidh band Rapscallion. There will also be apple-themed activities, cider, apple juice and hot food.

Visitor Services Manager Robin Savill said: “We’re very much looking forward to welcoming visitors to join us for our Wassail. The Abbey Barn provides a wonderful setting and the adjoining orchard is home to some rare old varieties.”

The wassail is being sponsored by Hecks Farmhouse Cider of Street and is one of a number of events to be held at the museum, run by The South West Heritage Trust. A recent Victorian-themed weekend – with free admission – attracted a large crowd.

The Beetlecrushers perform traditional clog and step dances during the Victorian weekend

Doors open at 7pm, with the wassail taking place between 7.30 pm and 10.00 pm. Advance booking is essential. For details, call: 01458 831197.

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Twenty five years – here’s to the next generation!

The Cooper family get ready to enjoy Wonder

THREE generations of the Cooper family who run Wells Film Centre gathered for the 25th anniversary celebrations of the opening of the complex.

A weekend of special screenings to mark the anniversary ended with a premier of Wonder.

Prepare for spring

WHAT’S ON

Festive market in Wells

A CHRISTMAS market will return to Wells following the success of last year’s pilot event.

It is being staged by Mendip District Council, working in partnership with Wells City Council, Wells Cathedral, The Bishop’s Palace and local businesses. The market will open on Wednesday, December 20th and run until Saturday, December 23rd from 9am to 4pm each day. There will be more than 100 traders offering a range of gifts and produce ideal for that special Christmas present along with music and Christmas carols. There will be free parking in Mendip’s car parks in Wells for the duration of the market (time limits will still apply).

Now Showing

From Wednesday 20th December Starts Friday 5th January Starts Friday 12th January Starts Friday 19th January

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD NOW SHOWING: Star Wars VIII The Last Jedi (12A) 3D/2D Ferdinand (U) 3D/2D • Paddington 2 (PG)

Pitch Perfect 3 (12A) • Jumanji (12A) 3D/2D The Greatest Showman Darkest Hour (PG) Coco 3D/2D

We would like to wish all our customers a very happy Christmas and New Year ● Book in person ● Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk ● Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

THIS February, for the first time, The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be holding a Snowdrop Celebration on February 24th and 25th with an array of stunning snowdrops on display throughout the gardens.

Visitors can follow the snowdrop walk to experience the moat banks carpeted with snowdrops and cross the willow bridge to enjoy an arboretum full of different varieties of spectacular snowdrops.

To complement the gardens, there will also be a selection of snowdrop-themed stalls in the Stable Yard Room, with snowdrop art, gifts and a selection of common and rare varieties of snowdrops on offer to buy and take home to your own garden.

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M e n d i p

Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. Commercial entries cost £25.

Tuesday December 19th Congresbury Singers Christmas concert, 7.30pm, St Andrews Church, Congresbury.

Tickets £8 from Congresbury PO or on the door.

“Mostly Messiah” Midsomer Choral Christmas Concert, St John the Baptist Church, Midsomer Norton, 7.30pm.

Tickets £10 from www.ticketsource.co.uk/event/FEGLDF or text 07595 671116, 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 Tel: 07711 662993 or vihowley@me.com Friday December 22nd and Saturday December 23rd Wells Cathedral Carol Services, 6pm7.30pm 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.

Thursday December 28th Priddy Droves guided walk with AONB Volunteer Rangers, 7 miles from Priddy: Ebbor Gorge and Deer Leap. Start 10am. £4 donation includes mince pie and hot drink. Details: www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk/events/ or 01761 462339.

Saturday December 30th Ancient History of Shipham & Rowberrow – guided walk with AONB Volunteer Rangers, 4 miles from Rowberrow. Start 10.30am, £4 donation PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • JANUARY 2018

T i m e s

includes mince pie and hot drink.

Details: www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk/events/ or 01761 462339.

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.

Thursday January 4th Congresbury Gardening Club: “All Year Colour in The Garden” by Michael Smith.

7.30pm, Methodist Hall, High Street, Congresbury. Visitors and new members always welcome.

West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 9.5m from Heaven’s Gate, Longleat.

OS Map Ex143 ST828423. Start 10am.

Park Nocket Coppice CP. Details: Margaret Donkin 01373462203/07543696675 or margdonkin@aol.com Saturday January 6th Mendip Society walk, Uphill. An easy 5 miles ST 316 584. Meet 10.30am near The Dolphin, Uphill Way, Weston-s-Mare, BS23 4TN. Park Uphill Way or Links Road. Optional lunch in a nearby pub afterwards. Contact: Martin 01761 462528.

Monday January 8th “The Great Houses of Gordano” a talk

by Sandy Tebbut for Nailsea & District Local History Society, 7.45pm, Nailsea School. Single evening: £2. Details: www.ndlhs.org.uk Mendip Folk Dance Club, 8pm-10pm, St James Church Hall, Winscombe, BS25 1AQ. £3pp. Details Pat 01934 742853.

Wednesday January 10th Wells Civic Society AGM followed by The Dean of Wells, the Very Rev. Dr John Davies, who will talk about the role of the dean in the city. Non-members welcome.

Wells and Mendip Museum,7.30pm.

Thursday January 11th West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 6m from Badgworth Church, BS26 2QP. OS Map Ex396526. Start 12.30pm.

Park roadside. Details: Kimberley Myers 01934 734608/ 07809433627 or myersfamily@btopenworld.com Mendip Society talk: “The Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance” by Debbie Birtwhistle, 2.30pm St. James’s Church Hall, Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1BA. Members £2, Visitors £3.50, includes refreshments. Contact Richard Frost 01275 472797.

Saturday January 13th Congresbury Book Sale 9am-1pm at War

W h a t ’ s

Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books.

Mendip Society walk, Churchill & Sandford. A moderate 4-5 miles. ST 437 597. Meet at 1.30pm in Hilliers Lane, Churchill, BS25 5NA. Contact: John 01934 842868.

Frome Civic Society and Society for Local Study, Dr Richard Brunning, The Beckery Excavations, Assembly Rooms, Frome, 2.30pm.

Monday January 15th Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with a game of bingo, 8pm. Non-members welcome.

Tuesday January 16th The Arts Society lecture “Messenger or Missile – Angels with glad tidings, doom, gloom or perdition”, 10.30am, Caryford Hall, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ. £6. Details: 01963 350132.

Thursday January 18th West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 10m from The Pelican, Chew Magna, BS40 8SL. OS Map Ex154 ST576632.

Start 10am. Free car park behind the pub.

Details: Vi Howley 07711662993 or vihowley@me.com Mid Somerset Tinnitus self-help group, 7.30pm in Wells Fire Station community room, all welcome. Details: Michael Rowe 01749 673044 or email mstshg@live.com Friday January 19th “Natural Born Thrillers” with Blue Planet underwater wildlife cameraman Doug Allen at Ubley Parish Hall, BS40 6PN. 7.30-10.30pm. Tickets £12, (U-18 £9) – supporting Valley Arts: www.valleyartscentre.co.uk Mendip Society talk: “Steepholm – the island of Magic & Mystery” by Dave Wallace. 2.30pm St. James’s Church Hall, Woodborough Road, Winscombe BS25 1BA. Members £2, visitors £3.50, includes refreshments. Details: Richard Frost 01275 472797.

Saturday January 20th North Cadbury Wassail. Free charity event with Mummers and Morris dancing.

6pm Catash Inn, North Cadbury, BA22 7DH. Details: www.bruevalleyrotary.org Wells Cathedral Children’s Festival: “Noah and the Flood” – for children aged 4 to 11, both families and children’s groups, to explore worship, circus skills, crafts, music and animals. 11am-3pm. £1.50.

Please book: 01749 674483 or email education@wellscathedral.uk.net or www.wellscathedral.org.uk/festival

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f o r

Mendip Society walk, Kilmersdon. A moderate 4 miles past Jack & Jill hill to the chapel of Babington House. ST 697 521.

Meet 1.30pm in the village hall car park, BA3 5TD. Details: Terry 01749 679128.

Monday January 22nd Mendip Folk Dance Club, 8pm-10pm, St James Church Hall, Winscombe, BS25 1AQ. £3pp. Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Green Gardeners: 7.30pm, Parish Rooms Somerton. Simpsons Seeds will be giving a talk and bringing their chilli sauces and seeds to purchase. Refreshments available and visitors welcome (£3).

Tuesday January 23rd Congresbury Over-60s Club Friendship Hour – tea, biscuits and chat with friends!

Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.304pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Thursday January 25th Creating Health Roadshow free advice event Shape Shepton Council Chambers, Cannards Grave Road, from 6.45pm with optional Tai Chi afterwards, booking essential. Details: info@creatinghealth.org.uk text 07904804524 to book your place www.creating-health.org.uk Mendip Society talk: “Not just Orwell; the Spanish Civil War” by Dolores Long.

2.30pm Wells Museum, 8 Cathedral Close, BA5 2UE. Members £2, Visitors £3.50, includes refreshments. Details: Richard Frost 01275 472797.

West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 6m from the Square, Westbury-subMendip. OS Map Ex141 ST501489. Start 12.30pm. Park roadside near village cross.

Details: Carol Jackson Tel: 01934 733658/07979354530 or caj7599@btinternet.com Chew Valley Wildlife Group: “The Marine Conservation Society: Making a difference to our seas”. Creating a sustainable future for our seas, shores and wildlife. Chew Magna Millennium Hall, 7.45pm. £2.50; Season tickets available.

Saturday January 27th Jumble Sale: Winscombe Community Centre, Sandford Rd, 2pm, refreshments available. Please contact Richard Parker, 07899 753063 to collect jumble – or bring to the community centre on the morning of the sale.

Congresbury Book Sale. 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall. Good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books.

Mendip Society walk, Banwell & Christon. A moderate 5 miles, with hills.

ST 396 592. Meet 1.30pm, West Street car

J a n u a r y

park, Banwell, BS29 6DB. Details: Richard 01275 852786.

Frome Civic Society and Society for Local Study, Chris Smaje – The Development of Vallis Veg and the future of sustainable horticulture/agriculture, Assembly Rooms, 2.30pm.

Monday January 29th Mendip Folk Dance Club, 8pm-10pm, St James Church Hall, Winscombe, BS25 1AQ. £3pp. Details: Pat 01934 742853.

Churchill Young Musician of the Year: music students at Churchill Academy, 6pm – 8.30pm, St. John the Baptist Church, Churchill, BS25 5QW. Tickets £8, U18's £4. Details: Susannah Read 01934 844106 or at the door.

Wessex Stationary Engine Club "Battle of Rourke’s Drift" with Mr Peter Lamb, at the Old Down Inn, Emborough BS3 4SA,7.30pm. All welcome, free entry.

Details: 01225 754374.

Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with a game of Bingo.

8pm. Non-members welcome.

Thursday February 1st to Friday February 23rd Snow Drop walks through the magnificent gardens of Camerton Court Bath.

Weekdays (not weekends). Groups only: min 15 to max 25. Details: Juliann: 01761 479319 or www.camertoncourtbath@gmail.com Friday February 2nd Valley Arts presents Reclaimed, Wassail Theatre Company’s play about flooding on the Somerset Levels, Chew Stoke School, 8pm, tickets £10 via Eventbrite.

Redhill Club Open Mic Night hosted by Jerry Blythe, 8pm, join us and unwind with an evening of live music, acoustic singersongwriters at their very best. Details: Jerry 07900 587646.

Friday February 2nd – Saturday February 3rd Alice – The Panto – a fantastical Wonderland with many favourite panto characters. Draycott Memorial Hall, 2pm & 7.30pm. Adults £8.50 U-18s £5 www.themendipplayers.co.uk Saturday February 3rd Mendip Society walk, Nunney. A

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moderate 4-5 miles to include Nunney Castle. Will be muddy alongside the brook.

ST 735 457. Meet 1.30pm in the Quarry Car Park, BA11 4NL. Details: Roger 07971 245956.

Frome Civic Society and Society for Local Study Adrian Webb – Somerset Mapped: cartography in the country through the centuries, Assembly Rooms, 2.30pm.

Saturday February 10th Mendip Society walk, Hinton Blewitt & Coley. A moderate hilly 4.5 miles, ST 594 569. Meet 1.30pm at lay-by opposite the Ring O’Bells, Hinton Blewett, BS39 5AN. Park considerately nearby. Details: Clive 01275 848053.

Friday February 16th Mendip Society talk: “Starfish & Subterfuge” the 2WW decoy city on Mendip, by Mike Chipperfield. 2.30pm Wells Museum, 8 Cathedral Close, BA5 2UE. Members £2, Visitors £3.50, includes refreshments. Details: Richard Frost 01275 472797.

Saturday February 17th Mendip Society walk: Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival. A moderate walk of 4.5m along the snowdrop trail, ST 617 436.

Meet 1.30pm in the Old Market Road car park (charge £1.90) BA4 5DU. Details: Gill 01934 742508.

C HRISTMAS H AMPER W INNER

LAST month we ran a competition for a Ford Farm cheese-themed hamper together with a family ticket for four to Wookey Hole Caves to see where Wookey Hole Cave Aged Cheddar is matured. The first correct answer drawn was from Jane Coombes from Babington. We hope you enjoy your prize!

MENDIP MINDBENDER ANSWERS FOR JANUARY ACROSS: 2 Pot, 3 Stogursey, 4 Ubley, 5 Julia, 7 Grave, 9 Cannards, 11 Polsham, 12 Trull, 14 Pierres, 17 Wall, 19 Charterhouse.

DOWN: 1 Somerville, 2 Pylle, 3 Sober, 6 Rees, 8 Ham, 9 Cazenove, 10 Delamare, 13 Rods Pot, 15 Rotary, 16 John, 18 Lord.

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Snow White at Theatre Royal Bath

WHAT’S ON

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

THIS Christmas the Theatre Royal Bath welcomes one of the UK’s best-loved actresses Harriet Thorpe (Absolutely Fabulous, The Brittas Empire, Wicked), who is taking centrestage alongside panto favourite Jon Monie and acclaimed Dame, Nick Wilton (EastEnders) in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

The cast also features West End star Devon-Elise Johnson as Snow White and seven accomplished short actors as the magnificent seven playing the roles of Snow White’s friends and protectors and the delightful young dancers from Bath’s Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance.

The classic fairy-story is being staged for only the third time ever in the Theatre Royal’s illustrious pantomime history.

Snow White is based on the stories of the Brothers Grimm and was made popular by Disney in 1937 in the first ever feature-length cartoon which became the biggest box office hit of its time.

Packed with comedy, slapstick, singing, dancing, beautiful costumes and plenty of audience participation, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is delighting audiences of all ages.

Details: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is running at the Theatre Royal Bath until Sunday January 7th.

To book tickets contact the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 or visit www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Drama in the valley

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RESIDENTS across Somerset will remember the devastating effects of flooding across the Levels. How do communities survive, re-group and recover?

Valley Arts is presenting an inspiring performance of Reclaimed, a new production by Somerset’s innovative Wassail Theatre Company, which is based on the experiences of people whose lives were dramatically impacted by the floods.

The show tours to community venues across Somerset for a month from January 12th. Chew Valley Performing Arts Centre is delighted to have persuaded the company to add a Chew Valley date to the tour, at Chew Stoke School, on Friday February 2nd, at 8pm. Tickets £10, book online via Eventbrite (just search for Eventbrite Valley Arts Reclaimed).

(Photograph courtesy of Freia Turland)

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