Mendiptimes Volume 11 - Issue 5

Mendip Times

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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 5

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FREE

Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

OCTOBER 2015

IN THIS ISSUE: PROPERTY • CHARITIES • HEALTH & FAMILY • AUTUMN EVENTS • RIDING • HEDGING • SPORT • CARNIVAL Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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PENNY R M (PLANT HIRE & DEMOLITION) LTD Ston Easton

TOPSOIL

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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

e BGW maternity unit is still in full swing. is time Kelly Charles has had a handsome first baby, Charlie, who seems to be glued to her hip, leaving her learning to do everything with her opposite hand. He is already known in the firm as Tarquin, but judging by his disapproving expression when he heard, the joke is wearing thin. e next candidates are Kayleigh, from our Glastonbury office, and Gemma, from the Castle Cary office, who have some weeks to wait for their second babies.

Leading on from there, once people decide to settle down together and/or start a family and particularly if one or both of them own a house, a business or other substantial assets, it is wise to consult a solicitor about a cohabitation agreement or pre-nuptial agreement.

It enables you to set out some agreed ground rules. It is often difficult for a couple to bring up the subject after they have been living together for some time. Don't put it off; if you need to consider it, do it soon. We are always happy to help.

Six-week Indian summer coming up?

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

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

Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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CONTENTS

Welcome

IT’S been a bumper harvest this year – both for us and for wildlife. This month June MacFarlane offers advice on how to use and preserve produce from both garden and hedgerow, while Chris Sperring sees how animals and birds feast on nature’s larder.

Harvest truly is a time for celebration, with dozens of shows, events and festivals right across the area – we have picture specials from many of them including Frome Cheese Show and Wedmore Harvest Home.

We also preview Wells Food Festival and Somerset Food Festival among pages of food and drink ideas.

The Mendip Society, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, has received a gift of woodland at Ubley from its former president, the late Glyn England, which will now be a nature reserve. We also joined members for a scything weekend at Slader’s Leigh, their other reserve near Winscombe.

We look ahead to Wells Festival of Literature and the Chew Valley Arts Trail, with a bumper section devoted to What’s On in the area.

Can you crack the Mendip Mindbender? Our crossword compiler Felkov is offering the chance of a prize to anyone who can!

With all of our regular features and contributors welcome to another winning issue.

November 2015 deadline: Friday, 16th October 2015.

Published: Tuesday, 27th October 2015.

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: Grand Parade of livestock at Frome Cheese Show – see page 14. Photograph by Mark Adler.

Best feet forward – Cheddar leads the way

7

14

Well bred – Frome Show in pictures

Arnhem tribute – Paulton remembers

82

105

Anyone for cricket – bails and beer at Priddy

Plus all our regular features Environment...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE..........10 Food & Drink...............................18 Arts & Antiques ...........................34 Internet and Crossword..............40 Business ........................................42 Charities .......................................50 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......57 Walking Sue Gearing....................58 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........60

Gardening Mary Payne MBE ......62 Education......................................75 Health Dr Phil Hammond.............84 Community...................................91 Caving Phil Hendy........................93 Homes and Interiors....................96 Music...........................................101 Sport............................................102 Riding Rachel Thompson ...........106 What’s On ..................................109 MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 3

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NEWS

Dean of Wells to retire early

JOHN Clarke, Dean of Wells, is to retire at the end of December after 11 years in the post.

The Dean suffered a stroke in April and has decided to stand down earlier than planned. His successor will be a Crown Appointment and announced by Downing Street after a selection process is undertaken.

John said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Dean of Wells and to work with clergy and lay colleagues on the cathedral chapter. This much-loved cathedral has an outstanding team of highly committed staff and volunteers that enable so many different activities to take place in and around the building.

“I am sorry to retire earlier than I intended following a stroke in April 2015, but I look forward to coming back to Wells and seeing future growth and development of the building and of the contemporary community of faith.”

The Dean came to Wells after having been Principal of Ripon College Cuddesdon, an Anglican theological training institution outside Oxford. His time as Dean has seen the completion of the cathedral development project and the conservation of the 14th century Jesse Window in the Quire, one of the major medieval church windows in England. He has overseen the farewell to Bishop Peter Price and the welcome of Bishop Peter Hancock.

John chairs the governors of Wells Cathedral School and led the project to build a £10m recital hall and community music resource. Nationally he has served as a Church Commissioner for England.

Bishop Peter said: “Now is not the time to say our formal farewells, but it is the time to say how much John and Cressida will be missed. They have made many friends across the diocese and the county and John's ministry as Dean has been greatly appreciated. I personally shall miss his friendship and support. John has been a wonderful, joyful and resourceful colleague and I am grateful to him for his very warm welcome when I was appointed as

Tribute to Her Majesty

Clergy, choir and organist after the service.

RESIDENTS of Winscombe and Sandford attended a special Choral Evensong at St. James’s Church on Wednesday, September 9th to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen becoming the longest-ever reigning monarch.

The well-attended service concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.

John Clarke is to retire on December 31st

bishop.”

Dr Paul Richards, the Cathedral Administrator, said: “It has been a privilege for all of us at the Cathedral, Chapter, staff and volunteers to have served with and under John as our Dean. He has brought quite a special and sensitive way of both keeping us together through differences of opinion and bringing us through times of change. He is a very wise and kind man. That kindness has all too often been at his own expense.”

G John will say farewell to the diocese at Cathedral Evensong on Thursday, November 19th at 5.15pm and to the cathedral congregation and volunteers at the Eucharist on Sunday, November 22nd at 9.45am. He and Cressida will be moving to Chippenham.

Celebration tea

Pictured (left to right) Phyllis Montgomery, Wyn Smith, Pat Hacker and Pauline Heron

MEMBERS of Bishop Sutton and Stowey WI celebrated Avon Federated WI's 40 years with an afternoon cream tea in the Methodist Church at Bishop Sutton.

The Avon federation was formed in 1975 when local government reorganisation incorporated parts of Somerset, Gloucestershire and City of Bristol into the former County of Avon.

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 5

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The rocky quarry show A DISUSED Mendip quarry “rocked” to the sound of live music as part of the stepinstone arts festival which echoed the area’s industrial roots.

Sculpture, photography and installations welcomed visitors to Asham/Westdown quarry, near Nunney, before a performance by two trumpeters in collaboration with Artmusic. stepinstone is an ongoing project by a group of artists inspired by Mendip’s quarrying industry, both past and present.

The musical event was part of Step 2 which continues in October. Step 3 begins on Saturday, October 3rd with a fortnight of events, including a repeat performance of the musical event at Fairy Cave Quarry, near Stoke-St-Michael.

Mendip rocks: trumpeters Jack Vincent (wearing hat) and John Plaxton take centre stage

Disused Asham/Westdown quarry has been popular with graffiti artists in recent years

Trumpeter John Plaxton performs in front of a piece by photographer Christina White, from Priddy

stepinstone curator Fiona Campbell, from Cranmore, with her sculpture from reclaimed materials at Asham/Westdown quarry

For details, visit: www.stepinstone-somerset.co.uk PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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ENVIRONMENT

Walkers head for the hills

By Mark Adler

CHEDDAR Walking members have their eyes on the future after celebrating being awarded the national Walkers Are Welcome accreditation.

Only the fifth community in Somerset to gain the status, Cheddar Walking had to meet strict criteria, including winning the support of local businesses and organisations. Many already display Walkers Are Welcome signs in their windows.

The group has already identified a range of seven walks around the village which will appeal to serious ramblers and those just wanting a stroll to enjoy the scenery. The group is in discussions with Mendip Ramblers about holding their annual walking festival in Cheddar in 2016.

Walkers Are Welcome is a not-for-profit community interest company which supports towns and villages to provide a special service to walkers through a variety of means, including providing excellent information, well-maintained routes and facilities and contributing to wider tourism, regeneration and wellbeing plans.

Cheddar Walking chairman Huw Robson said: “Cheddar is the obvious place to do this. It has some fantastic walks and most people know about the iconic gorge.”

Wells MP James Heappey, who attended the launch, has even greater ambitions for the initiative. He said: “This is just the first step. There is no reason why Cheddar cannot become a walking capital to compare with the likes of Penrith and the Lake District, Aviemore and Betws-y-Coed in North Wales.”

Some of the team behind Cheddar Walking

BBC Somerset presenter Emma Britton cuts a rope laced with old walking boots to confirm Cheddar’s Walkers Welcome status

Mendip Ramblers during their annual walking festival, this year based on Charlton Adam. Next year’s festival could be held in Cheddar

For details visit www.Cheddarwalking.org.uk or email contact@cheddarwalking.co.uk

Tackling climate change and fuel poverty

FOR the second year running local community energy enterprise, Bath & West Community Energy is offering funds to support projects in Bath & North East Somerset that aim to reduce carbon emissions and/or address fuel poverty.

The company, which develops community owned renewable energy projects, offers local people the opportunity to invest in local projects and as members have a say in the running of the organisation. The company has set up the BWCE Fund, awarding grants through Quartet Community Foundation.

Last year the fund made grants to seven projects as diverse

as a ‘try before you buy’ LED lighting scheme run by Transition Bath and the ‘Winter Warmer’ project run by Age UK in B&NES. Applications are now invited for this year’s grants round with a deadline of October 16th and decisions announced by the end of November 2015.

Organisations can apply for between £500 and £5,000 with the primary aim of reducing carbon emissions and/or tackling fuel poverty. In addition there will be one headline award of up to £10,000 for a particularly exciting and innovative project.

Details: visit http://www.quartetcf.org.uk or call the Community Foundation’s Bath office on 01225 420 300 or email jilly.edwards@quartetcf.org.uk. For information on Bath & West Community Energy Company visit http://www.bwce.coop

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 7

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ENVIRONMENT

E n c o ur a g i ng b i o d i v e r s i t y

M E N D I P

W E A T H E R

S C E N E

HANSON UK is inviting university academics and students to get involved in the third round of its biodiversity research competition, the Quarry Life Award at Batts Combe quarry in Cheddar.

The biennial competition, run by Hanson’s parent company HeidelbergCement across more than 20 countries, offers the chance to win over €30,000 (£22,000) by finding new ideas for the conservation and promotion of biodiversity in quarries.

Batts Combe is one of five Hanson quarries participating in the 2016 award, which has been recognised as an official project of the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity.

Proposals for research projects based around one of five categories – including habitat and species research, biodiversity management and education and raising awareness – will be accepted

until March 1, 2016.

Hanson’s senior sustainability manager Martin Crow said: “Since launching in 2011, the award has increased dialogue with the academic community and NGOs which, in turn, is

El Niño and Mendip

IT’S that time of the year again when all the newspaper headlines give predictions, some pretty dire, for the coming winter.

This year, a condition known as “El Niño” has been added to all the spice, with accompanying warning of the likely with DAVID effects over the UK. El Niño is a MAINE condition that develops when the sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific off the coasts of California and South America become unusually warm due to a change in the wind pattern.

Weather around the globe is undoubtedly affected by sea surface temperatures and it is a fact that California has suffered several years of drought and, as I write, some nasty forest fires, leading to the declaration of a state of emergency.

This all sounds a long way away and I can hear you all saying: “What on earth has all this got to do with the weather here on the Mendip?”

A lot of research is going on into how this can affect weather in other parts of the globe due to the “knock-on” effect, but it is all too easy to jump to conclusions and predict a severe winter here. I have yet to read anywhere that the severe winters of 1947 and 1963 were caused by previous El Niños.

For the time being, we can continue to follow the forecasts up to a week ahead (which are pretty accurate these days) as we go through the autumn and watch how quickly the pattern changes into a colder one. I have just had my chimney swept and got in a supply of coal and logs, just in case!

PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

helping to inform the development of biodiversity action plans at all our sites.

“Our aim for the 2016 award is to encourage more projects which can support and enhance biodiversity at all our quarries.”

An unusual team huddle as rugby players shelter from a heavy shower during the Butleigh Magnificent 7s tournament

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HANDMADE ARTISAN RUGS T H AT M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E

at Bookbarn International, Wells Road, Hallatrow, Bristol BS39 6EX 01761 451 764 www.orientalrugsofbath.com

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Tel: 0800 097 8611

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

C L E A N I N G • R E S TO R AT I O N • VA L U AT I O N

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Farming – and glamping – on top of the hills

A FARM profile this month. I have had the pleasure of a visit to Warren Farm, Priddy, home of Small Brothers. This farm consists of over 1,000 With MARY acres, 500 owned and JAMES MBE just over 500 rented (equivalent to 500 football pitches) in the Cheddar Gorge area.

The partnership consists of Bill and John Small, James, son of Bill, and their wives.

James Small is well known in Somerset National Farmers’ Union circles as he has been county chairman and is the current county delegate to NFU headquarters.

The farm has three separate enterprises.

Bill Small looks after the beef cattle which are Whitbred Beef Shorthorn which are a rare breed and on the critically endangered list. It is a single suckler herd which means each female raises just one calf at a time which stays with her until it is 9 – 10 months old.

The calves are sold through Sedgemoor Auction Centre. The Whitbred Beef Shorthorn copes extremely well with rough grazing and calves easily being ideally

suited to the conservation grade land, some on behalf of organisations such as the National Trust, Longleat Estates and Somerset County Council. Some land is let for an outdoor pig unit and 120 acres are in a SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest).

John Small manages 1,400 Beulah and Speckly face ewes with a mixture of rams.

The ewes lamb outdoors in May and from Christmas to Easter they are ready for market. Just like many other farms, a diversification was needed so the family hit on glamping, which is proving to be a success.

These are luxury tents fitted with hardwood floors, wood burning stoves, water and electricity. Two cabins are also available. What a great experience for

North Somerset Ploughing Match

PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

someone from the city to stay on a working farm in a safe environment, meet the farmer and enjoy being taken around the farm. Have a look at the farm’s website www.warrenfarmsomerset.com It was inevitable that we should touch on the subject of marketing. James declares that the UK could be self-sufficient in lamb if the market signals were right – 102% in fact. Farming has a huge role to play in the UK and government and farmers need to work together to ensure the public are aware of where food comes from.

James said: “We do not produce a commodity, we produce a high quality product that is vital to human life and we need politicians to help us, not tell us what to do.”

The public want to know what we are doing so all credit to James for creating his website and using social media which is an area that many farmers are using but it needs more to join in.

Finally, this month a notice of something you may enjoy. There will be a horse ploughing match on Sunday October 25th at Barrow Gurney, Nr Bristol, BS48 3RE off the A370. Admission £5 adults, children and car parking free.

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Care, not repair

Priddy sale

Killens' annual implement sale on Priddy village green attracted hundreds of people and thousands of lots The sale had all sorts of items

John Leigh from Cheddar was pleased to get this seed fiddle

The whole green was full

FARMING

THE old adage “prevention is better than cure” is never more apt than when it comes to maintaining agricultural machinery, according to the team at Somer2000.

Rewinding a motor Think about that electric motor in the grain drier which has been idle for months and just when it needs to be used at harvest time … nothing.

Somer2000, based on the Midsomer Enterprise Park between Midsomer Norton and Radstock, specialise in the maintenance – and repairs – of such items.

Managing director Bob Kingman said: “We always suggest farmers should be thinking ahead when it comes to maintaining electrical equipment. Replacing the bearings, for example, is also cheaper than a major repair – or buying new.

“A ‘stitch in time’ is a good way to describe the services we offer, not just for farmers but anyone who needs a motor to work at a crucial time.”

ELECTRIC MOTORS Let Somer 2000 Ltd sort all your electric motor problems. We can repair a wide range of electric motors and we can supply a range of new motors if required. We also stock a range of bearings and capacitors for direct sale.

ELECTRIC MOTOR REWINDS We specialise in rewinds of both single and three phase electric motors, with our in-house staff offering quality rewinds at comple ve rates..

G Transformer Design and Manufacturing G Electric Motor Supply and Repairs G Electrical Contrac ng G Intruder and Fire Alarm Systems

Unit 26, Midsomer Enterprise Park, Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton BA3 2BB. Tel: 01761 412727 E-mail: bob@somer2000.co.uk • www.somer2000.co.uk Jim Callaway from Priddy was celebrating a birthday – his Land Rover's 60th MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 11

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Choosing the right cartridge With the game season upon us, Southfield Sporting’s Robert Lintott offers advice on choosing the right cartridge.

G Chamber Length: Shotgun chamber lengths are generally 2½” (65mm), 2¾” (70mm) or 3” (76mm) in modern sporting guns. Only use the appropriate cartridge for the gun’s chamber.

G Shot and Loads: As a rule of thumb shot sizes 4–7 are best for game, and 7½-9 for clays. The heavier the load (grams of shot) the more pellets, the more recoil and more cost! 7s are ideal for partridge, a 6 is a good all round shot size, and some may prefer 5s or even 4s later in the season when the birds are flying more strongly. It is easy to jump to a large shot size thinking there is more power, but remember there is less shot for the same weight.

For example a 12 bore 32g 6 load will have 291 pellets, a 32g 5 will have 226 pellets, and a 32g 4 only 160 pellets!

Although the 4s will have more energy, there is almost half the number of pellets, so it is far more likely to have larger gaps in the pattern (and more chance of missing the target!)

G Storing cartridges: It is always best to keep cartridges at a constant temperature and humidity. Normal room temperature and humidity is ideal. Don’t let them get cold or damp! The full list of our cartridge stock is available on our website, featuring RC, Hull Cartridge, Gamebore and Nobel Sport.

PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

FARMING

The art of hedge laying

THE 37th National Hedge Laying Championships will be held on Saturday October 24th on the edge of Chew Valley Lake hosted by Bristol Water.

Over 100 of the top national hedge layers will compete demonstrating their very own unique skill. Governed by a strict set of rules and from a maximum of 100 points they will gain marks for their cutting, staking and the overall finish.

Each of the nine styles cut at the nationals represents different landscape and agricultural requirements across the country. For instance Devon and Dorset hedges are on top of a high bank so are therefore crooked tight against the bank to make a sheep-proof barrier, whereas a Midland bullock hedge has all the head of the hedge on one side with the stems creating a strong visible barrier on the other.

Most readers of the Mendip Times will be familiar with the local North Somerset style because of the coverage of local matches and competitions. In Somerset we are looking for a hedge that not only has to be stock proof for sheep, cattle and horses, but maintains a healthy habitat for wildlife.

Living hedgerow stems are singularly cut though at about 45% then lowered to provide a sturdy dense boundary to stop animals pushing through; the heel or remaining part of the stem is cut to allow regrowth at ground level.

The North Somerset finished hedge will have a row of stakes on alternate sides. With sufficient height it will act as a barrier and a shelter during the winter months until the regrowth takes over throughout the summer; this in turn offers a vigorous new supply of flowers and pollen for wildlife when it is needed in early spring.

Hedge laying is the traditional method of hedgerow management; it formed part of the seasonal farm work programme, although in more recent years there has been an increase in demand from private home owners who have bought smaller parcels of land.

Hedge laying can start in September when the sap has stopped rising. There is much debate and advice about the pros and cons of starting so early; the downside is that the hedgerow is still rich in biodiversity, full of fruit, nuts and berries, which attract insects and in turn birds, mammals and, to a lesser degree, ourselves to forage for food.

The other factor to consider is the weather; seasons constantly change and in more recent years we have seen longer wet spells which can hinder access and cause greater destruction of the surrounding land.

Whatever your thoughts, come along to this prestigious event, which is a first for Somerset and socialise with other interested spectators from as far afield as Canada, America, Germany and the Netherlands, to experience at first-hand the art of hedge laying, or to browse amongst the craft stalls.

Tina Bath

Photograph by Cath Reed

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37th National Hedge Laying Championship

Will be held at Stoke Hill, Chew Valley Lake (on the B3114) October 24th 2015 By kind permission of Bristol Water PLC

Organised by members of the Wrington and Burrington Hedging Society Founded in 1832

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A show for all the family Crowds near the cheese pavilion

Visitors admire the hundreds of entries in the cheese show pavilion

Show president Roger Penny (left) with Martin Peach, from Gillingham and his exhibitor-bred supreme champion Peach Ava Tyrol Young farmer Johnny Ward, from Mells, agreed to have his head shaved before the grand livestock parade. He was raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Wilberry Wonder Pony Appeal.

The hairdresser was Maxine Davis Time to relax after a day’s showing

Admiring the vegetables

Connor, Dominic and Lucy PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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FROME CHEESE SHOW 2015

Rodney Cundict’s prize-winning floral art display on a rugby world cup theme

Sophie Huntley with prizewinner Venus

A rider struggles to regain her balance after striking a fence in the showjumping

First prize for this selection

Youngsters are taken aback by the giant celery in one of the vegetable classes

A farmer makes his point about the crisis in the dairy industry

Sophie Thelwell, aged nine, from Frome with her winning scarecrow

Seb Haste, from North Devon. His family enjoyed huge success in the livestock classes MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 15

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G’day Monsieur!

A Wedmore welcome

FAMILIES from France and an Australian cricketer were amongst the guests at the annual Wedmore Harvest Home celebrations.

The day began with a church service in The Borough before a carnival parade through the village to the sports ground for a traditional lunch, afternoon games and live music in the evening.

Members of Wedmore Twinning Association welcomed 32 adults and 24 children from Saint-Médard-de-Guizières, in south west France and they took part in a Rugby World Cup-themed entry in the parade.

Meanwhile, enjoying his first harvest home was Mitch Fox, from Newcastle in Australia, who has been spending the summer as a bowler for Uphill Cricket Club. Mitch, who works for Dunstan House Electrical in Highbridge, was invited to the UK

by Will Plummer, from Wedmore. Will met Mitch whilst playing cricket in Australia; he currently plays for Clevedon CC.

The Moreman family with their entry: Avengers Assembly

Stig on Benefits: Wessex and Roxana Purchase

Hatty and Fleur on their ponies were at the front of the parade PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Wells MP James Heappey joins members of the Kids on Tour crew on their float highlighting the dairy farming crisis. James used his speech at the lunch to urge people to be more patriotic by supporting British farmers before tweaking the traditional toast “To the agricultural and kindred industries” to say “To the British agricultural and kindred industries”

Bowling a maiden over …

(l:r) Catherine Langley, Venetia Hopkins and Heather Hector

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WEDMORE HARVEST HOME

Lego: The Movie by the Bennetts

Don’t mention The Ashes: Will Plummer (left) and Mitch Fox

Wedmore royalty: Ruby, Jess, Dylan and Rohan

Raising a glass to lunch Members of Wedmore Twinning Association and their French guests

A harvest tradition: cold meats and salad for lunch

Wedmore port reeves Dave Tucker (left) and Paul Horley were joined by Dave’s son Charlie, seven, when they led the parade MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 17

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The fruits of our labour

With JUNE MACFARLANE

APPLES, pears, damsons, sloes, squash, tomatoes, courgettes, beetroot … the list goes on.

Now is the time for preserving, freezing, bottling, drying, but above all for eating this wonderful produce fresh as it comes into the kitchen.

SLOW ROAST PORK BELLY WITH FENNEL, APPLE AND SQUASH

This is an absolutely delicious dish using seasonal ingredients at their best. If you do it this way all the work is done in advance and you just reheat the portions as needed, but of course you can do the whole thing in one go. Once cooled and refrigerated the pork will be fine for two or three days.

METHOD

For the Pork belly Pre-heat oven to 180˚C (160˚C fan). Arrange shallots and fennel on the bottom of a roasting tray. Put the meat in a clean sink, skin side up, and pour a kettle of boiling water over it (to shrink the skin and improve the crackling). Place on top of the vegetables. Drizzle over some oil, sprinkle with salt and rub into skin.

Scatter fennel seeds over. Roast slowly for about two and a half hours until very tender. Remove from oven and allow to cool a little. Lift off crackling. Break crackling into small pieces. Put into lidded tub and refrigerate. When meat is cool wrap in foil and refrigerate until needed.

When you come to assemble the dish cut the pork into portions, reheat meat and crackling on a tray in a medium oven until glistening and heated through, serve with the apple and squash purée (see below).

Apple and squash purée Score the apple around its middle. Place on a baking tray with the squash. Season the squash with salt, pepper and a drizzle of oil.

Cook in the same oven as INGREDIENTS the pork for the last half an 2 shallots, sliced hour of cooking. While 1 fennel bulb, sliced pork is cooling scrape off olive oil the fluffed apple and the 1.5kg pork belly, skin cooked squash. Mix scored into diamonds together, adding oregano, boiling water butter, and salt if needed.

1 tsp fennel seeds Refrigerate, covered. salt, pepper Reheat with meat as above.

1 large cooking apple 1 medium squash, quartered, seeds removed 1 tsp dried wild oregano 1 tbsp unsalted butter PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

DAMSON CHEESE

Damson cheese – so thick you can cut it with a knife

This is a great thing to make if you live near a damson INGREDIENTS tree. It makes a solid preserve 1kg damsons, washed and stalks so thick you can cut it with a removed knife. Great with cheese, 150ml water particularly the wonderful White granulated sugar sheep’s milk Fosse Way juice of a lemon Fleece, 3 Star Great Taste Awards winner from the Somerset Cheese Company at Ditcheat and a winner at Frome Cheese Show. Pretty good with ice cream or Greek yoghourt too!

METHOD

Put damsons and water in a roomy, heavy bottomed pan. Simmer gently until completely soft. Cool. Sieve to remove skins and stones.

Measure purée and return to pan. Add 1lb of sugar to one pint of purée. Add lemon juice. Heat slowly to dissolve sugar, then boil to reduce, stirring all the while, until you see a noticeable clear track across the bottom of the pan. Allow to settle a little, then pour into warm, straight sided, sterilised jars and cover with lids or cellophane. Keep in a cool dark place, and store in the fridge once opened.blackberries and cook for a further ten minutes or so until the berries have softened but still hold their shape and the juice starts to flow. Spoon into sterilised jars and cover. Keep for a week before using and store in the fridge after opening.

SLOE GIN/VODKA

If you have never made this, why not?

You can use gin, or vodka. I prefer vodka. Either way the process is the same. Make it now and it will be ready for Christmas; leave it to mature for a year and it will knock your socks off!

METHOD

INGREDIENTS

450g/1lb sloes 225g/8oz caster sugar 1 litre/1¾ pint gin/vodka

Freeze the sloes overnight to burst the flesh. In the morning put them in a big lidded jar. Cover with sugar, then the alcohol. Keep in a cool dark place and shake every time you remember. By Christmas you should have a deep claret-coloured fruity liqueur. Strain through muslin and bottle. If sediment settles pour through your water filter just before you change the old filter – removes it a treat!

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FOOD & DRINK

Music and more at the Holcombe Inn this Christmas THE team at The Holcombe Inn always enjoy throwing a party and this festive season promises to go with more of a swing than by even their extremely high standards.

Live music on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve will ensure everyone gets into the spirit of the occasion. Bristolbased Sam Evans and his band will be playing on Christmas Eve. The talented young musicians are already attracting a big following.

New Year’s Eve is always a great party night at The Holcombe Inn with a different theme every year. This time round it is Dream Boats and Petticoats with music from the Harlem Rhythm Cats, a boogie woogie and blues band, based locally, who will be playing the very best “smokin’ hot classics” from the 40’s and 50’s.

It goes without saying that the inn’s awardwinning food and drink will feature prominently, as it does throughout the year. Its large restaurant enjoys a fantastic reputation, is rosette awarded

The luxury interior of one of the new lodges

and has been recognised by Michelin and entered in the Michelin good food pub guide for the last four years. It has maintained a Trip Advisor certificate of excellence for the last four years and has also been given a special breakfast award from the AA. The restaurant is ideal for Christmas parties of any size, with two menus on offer to cater for different budgets, and Christmas Day lunch will feature a stunning a la carte menu.

And for those wishing to stay, the inn boasts ten individually designed rooms all with luxury bathrooms. Two new lodge rooms – dog friendly – have just been completed with French doors opening out onto their own patio looking out over open fields. The lodges have a heated entrance porch with doggie bed, towels, doggie shampoos and treats designed to bring your pet along to make the most of the stunning Mendip countryside.

Festive Times at The Holcombe Inn

ChristmasDay A stunning a la carte lunch menu now available

Christmas Parties Two menus to cater for different budgets

The Holcombe Inn

Stratton Road, Holcombe, Bath BA3 5EB. Tel: 01761 232478 • Fax: 01761 233737.

E-mail: bookings@holcombeinn.co.uk Website: www.holcombeinn.co.uk

New Years Eve Dream Boats and Petticoats 40s/50s Theme Night ree-course dinner and boogie woogie and blues from e Harlem Rhythm Cats. £65 per person.

Champagne at midnight.

Always a great party night!

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 19

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MENDIP TIMES

Autumn & Winter at BEAH

Brunch or lunch?

Head for Hartley’s

AUTUMN, a season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, a brisk morning walk on Mendip to lift the spirit, take in the autumn colours and the sweet smells and, of course, to charge the appetite.

Few eating occasions top the joy of a good Sunday lunch, leisurely enjoyed with good company, excellent local food, freshly cooked vegetables and big joints of roast meat all complemented with local ciders, beers and a great wine list.

At Hartley’s Kitchen in Binegar, a few miles from Shepton Mallet or Wells, they have a great reputation for Sunday Brunch and Sunday Lunch. Every weekend they add a special breakfast or brunch dish to their extensive menu.

Classics like devilled kidneys, smoked haddock kedgeree, Piperade Basquaisse (a classic Spanish breakfast), breakfast kebabs set on crispy sauté potatoes and drizzled with a sauce of Seville orange marmalade and Worcestershire sauce. Best to check which of these dishes is available on the weekend you visit.

Lunch starts around midday with roast beef and freshlymade horseradish sauce (with attitude) and either roast lamb or roast pork served with fresh seasonal vegetables and a gravy to die for made from their own stock pot with a hint of wine added. Right now, the menu includes Gressingham Duck on a watermelon salad, authentic cassoulet, steak and kidney pie and amongst other glorious taste tingling dishes are salmon and dill fishcakes with home made tartare sauce.

All too good to miss. Now onto the desserts …

Cheers to a great festival

• Breakfast Menu available from 10am – noon • New lunch menu from 12noon – 2pm (3pm on Saturdays) • New Prix fixe Dinner menu: £12 for two courses £16 for three courses • Full a la carte menu with daily specials • Bespoke menus for private parties from 20–60 upstairs in our ‘Chapel’ function room • Christmas Lunch & Dinner party menus available now • Looking for a less formal Christmas Party this year? Find out more about our Christmas Canapes and Drinks Menu.

Email or call for details

Find us at Union Street, Wells Call 01749 678111 Email: info@beah.co.uk www.beah.co.uk Relaxed and friendly dining in the heart of Wells PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

THE 13th Chew Valley Beer Festival in Ubley was a great success with nearly 500 enthusiasts sampling 32 barrels of real ale together with six local Somerset ciders over the weekend. The event raises funds for Ubley Village Hall.

Plans are already afoot for next year's festival to be held on Friday 9th and Saturday September 10th.

Details: www.chewvalleybeerfestival.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK Country shopping at its best

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW

MEAT SUPPLIED FROM OUR OWN FARM

CELEBRATE AUTUMN WITH US!

THE RED LION VILLAGE PUB & RESTAURANT Sutton Hill Road, Bishop Sutton BS39 5UT

01275 333042

A la carte menu and excellent specials board, selection of delicious roasts on Sundays

Christmas Menu available from December 1st – Group/Work Party bookings taken Please see our website www.redlionbishopsutton.co.uk to view our menus

PENSIONERS 25% OFF LUNCH MENUS Please quote promotional code MTRL to claim your discount (Mon-Sat only)

The Red Lion – the pub at the heart of the community

Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 12 noon – 2.30pm, 5pm – 11pm. Open all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Food available on Sundays 12 noon – 6pm

Time to think about Christmas and our home-produced meat

Enjoy a good Sunday roast

Emma Bridgewater China & other Christmas gifts

Geoff’s fresh fish every Friday

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

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

FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE HIRE

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

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

Farm Shop: 01761 220067 Tea Rooms: 01761 220172

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 21

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MENDIP TIMES

Orchards at their best

Will Austin and Geoffrey, his two-year-old labrador, take a break from welcoming visitors to the pick-your-own season at West Bradley Orchards, near Glastonbury. A wide variety of apples and pears were on offer when West Bradley opened to the public in September for the harvest.

National Apple Day will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 21st

FANTASTIC FUNGAL FORAY with Adrian Boots Join me on a fantastic wild food foray enjoying the best wild edibles the autumn season has to offer!

Sunday 1st November 2015 9.30am to 1.30pm £35 per person Please call 01761 462162 to book your place or for more info visit: www.gowildactivities.co.uk PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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GARDEN FOOD

Juneberries

THE Juneberries (Amelanchier species) are a group of shrubs and small trees that bear delicious edible fruits – despite their name they ripen in July and August in the UK and hang on the bush for a long while after that, slowly drying.

They are another of the whole string of With JAKE fruits that I have been discovering WHITSON recently which I cannot believe I'd never heard of before! There is a lot of variability between species, but generally the fruits are currant sized, sweet and juicy with a very rich, almost bittersweet flavour – inside are several small, chewy, almond flavoured seeds.

They seem to have more dry matter than many other fruits and when dried make a substantial raisin-like dried fruit (unlike, for instance, blueberries, which dry down to micron thin flakes of nothing). It is one of those plants that, now that I recognise it, I am seeing everywhere in people's gardens and hedgerows – it is often planted as an ornamental for its showy white flowers in spring.

However it seems that almost noone is aware that the blue-black fruits which follow the flowers are edible, as I am always finding bunches of the fruits dried out on the bush in September (which is how I first discovered that they are good dried). The fruits are also much loved by birds so it is, however, no great waste.

If you are interested in growing Juneberries for fruit then there are some species and varieties that are better than others. Pictured is Amelanchier canadensis, which has good fruit and eventually makes a small tree up to 8m high (though it can easily be kept pruned and shrubby).

Especially notable for fruit is the Saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia), which is grown as a commerical crop in Canada and only grows to a managable 2-3m – there are several Canadian cultivars specifically bred for fruit production which I'd highly recommend – 'Martin' and 'Northline' are among the best.

I must admit I've not yet tried cooking Juneberries – usually I just scoff them raw, straight from the plant, and I also dry a few. I suspect they would make an excellent jam and also be delicious in fruit leathers.

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, and runs the business jakeswildfungi.co.uk, making specialist mycorrhiza products for tree planting.

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

My special gift horse

SOME of you might already know that every year I run wild food forays. Every autumn we identify edible mushrooms before breaking out the camping stove and frying up our finds.

There is something so evocative about the smell of fresh mushrooms frying in butter on With ADRIAN an autumnal morning. And every year I’m BOOTS always asked ‘have you ever found truffles?’

My answer is always the same: they are just too difficult to find being buried underground and requiring a dog or pig neither of which I have.

Well, that’s all changed. For our sins my wife and I keep horses, or rather one horse and two naughty but very cute ponies. So I was busy poo picking in the yard when I noticed a strange looking, rather hard and spiky addition.

At first I was concerned for the animal that had passed such an example but then the gears clicked into place and I exclaimed to my equine charges ‘that looks like a truffle!’ Now the horse was very interested in what I had in my hand and immediately gave it a good sniff and snort.

Then an idea struck me, forget a truffle dog or pig we have a truffle horse! Look at the size of that nose, perfect! The horse and his man began to look under the hazel trees next to the yard and discovered half a dozen prime specimens ready for the taking.

Summer truffle (Tuber aestivum) is 3-9cm across in diameter, irregularly rounded sometimes convoluted with hollow areas. The surface is covered in blackish pyramidal warts. The flesh is marbled off-white/yellow becoming grey/brown. When washed and cleaned it should smell strongly of truffle.

It can be found in calcareous soils under beech, hazel and oak trees. Look for them in summer to early winter. Conveniently summer truffles are nearly always at the surface, just look out for them poking out or the ground or for the tell-tale signs of broken and heaving soil.

The summer truffle is one of about 15 species of British truffle and the good news is they are all edible. The bad news is that the other species are either too small or buried too deeply to be worth bothering with.

After washing and cleaning the best way to enjoy truffles is grated over scrambled eggs on toast or bottled with a good quality cold pressed extra virgin olive oil or rape seed oil. Make sure the bottles or jars are sterilised, add in about 25 grams of grated and thinly sliced truffle then top up with 250ml of oil.

Whist summer truffle is not as strong tasting as their more famous European cousins, the light and delicate flavour imparted to the oil is simply superb poured over fresh al-dente pasta!

So now when people ask me ‘have you ever found truffles’ I can say wholeheartedly yes, just wait here whilst I get my horse!

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

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 23

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MENDIP TIMES

Awardwinning artisan cheese makers

Three gold stars for our Fosse Way Fleece, winner of best in class at Frome Cheese Show 2015

Find our cheese at farmers’ markets across Somerset, Queen St. Deli in Wells and Farrington’s Farm Shop at Farrington Gurney

www.somersetcheese.co.uk e-mail: info@somersetcheese.co.uk tel: 01749 860237

O C T O B E R D AT E S S at 3 r d S un 4th

A x br i d ge a n d M i d s o m e r N o r t o n S F M @T h e F r o m e I n d ep en de n t

S at 1 0t h

F r o m e Ch ee s e & G r a i n a n d K ey n s h a m C r e wk e r n e G l a s t o n b u r y a n d Ye o v i l (9am-2pm)* B u r n h am - o n - Se a

(10am-3pm)*

S a t 1 7t h S at 2 4 t h F r i 30t h

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Stars come out for cheese

THE Somerset Cheese Company, based at Ditcheat near Shepton Mallet, is celebrating after winning two prestigious awards in the space of just a few weeks.

Its Fosse Way Fleece – a Anita and Phil with their awardhard cheese made with winning Fosse Way Fleece pasteurised sheep’s milk – received three gold stars in the national Great Taste Awards, run by the Guild of Fine Food. The same cheese was then named best in class at Frome Cheese Show.

Started ten years ago by cheese maker Phil Rainbow, his friend and former assistant Anita Robinson and her husband Nick, the Somerset Cheese Company produces a range of artisan cheeses using milk from sheep, buffalos, goats and cows.

Another of their cheese range is also enjoying some celebrity status: the comedian and broadcaster Russell Brand is said to be a big fan of their Somerset Chilli Cheese, made with black pepper and fresh chilli. He later visited Baltonsborough Show where Phil was running a stall and the pair chatted.

Phil recently marked the 50th anniversary of his career as a cheese maker, having worked across Somerset. Anita runs the dairy alongside Phil, whilst Nick looks after the business side.

Phil and Anita are familiar faces across Somerset, running stalls at farmers’ markets including Midsomer Norton and Axbridge.

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FOOD & DRINK

So much to enjoy at Wells Food Festival

Fun for all in the families marquee

WELLS Food Festival – a foodie heaven laden with plenty of activities to keep all the family entertained.

Free to enter, it takes place on Sunday, October 11th, with an artisan market and street food stalls, with more than 100 producers and vendors celebrating seasonal, fresh ingredients and locally produced food.

Wells Town Hall will be transformed into a traditional tea room, celebrating that most British of creations, the cream tea, but with a twist. This is the “Best Exotic Cream Tea Room” and customers can choose from a range of fine, single estate teas, from Assam to a Special “Wells” blend. A slice of delicious homemade tea bread along with a blueberry scone, a “gurt” big dollop of local clotted cream and jam will be served courtesy of the celebrated Comins Tea House. And as, if that wasn’t enough, tea-goers will be entertained by Marilyn Cattell and her ballroom group accompanied by music recalling tea dances from the 19th century.

The Families Marquee in the Recreation Ground has activities planned to inspire even the youngest visitors: from peeling the longest apple peeling to pizza-making workshops with Pizzas & Puppets.

Meanwhile, for some lively discussion and “food for thought”, join in the Eat the Landscape debate taking place in the Bishop’s Barn at 11am. With a panel of experts, this will explore the connection between our food choices and the landscape, looking at how we can ensure an attractive and thriving countryside whilst safeguarding the supply of quality, healthy foods.

Following the debate, soup will be served, made from vegetables which would otherwise have gone to waste, prepared by young enthusiasts from the Blue School.

For further information on the day and all the activities visit www.wellsfoodfestival.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

Tuesday 23rd October ALAN BECK’S TRIBUTE to the legends of Swing/Rat Pack/Rock & Roll/Buddy Holly

THEME NIGHTS

Monday 26th October 6-9pm

BEST OF AFRICA

Eat as much as you like – £8.95

CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTS Gary Pease is ROD STEWART Tuesday 8th December Jay and the Boys are TAKE THAT Monday 14th December JERSEY/BEACH BOYS Tuesday 15th December Lee Pashley is ROBBIE WILLIAMS Monday 21st December

CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS Now being taken – pre-booking essential TWO COURSES £12.95 (lunch) THREE COURSES £17.95 (lunch & evenings) CHRISTMAS DAY £55.00 (children £30)

Drum and Monkey Kenn Road, Clevedon, Somerset BS21 6TJ 01275 873433 info@drumandmonkeykenn.co.uk www.drumandmonkeykenn.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 25

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A feast of chefs at food and drink fest SOME of Mendip’s leading chefs will be demonstrating their skills at this year’s Somerset Food and Drink Fest in October.

And they’ll be joined by television star Jean-Cristophe Novelli, who backs up his celebrity status as a Michelin award winning chef, who is also dubbed “the nation’s favourite French chef”.

The Somerset Food and Drink Fest 2015 will be held at the Royal Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet on Saturday, October 17th and Sunday, October 18th. Running alongside it will be the unique Somerset HeArt Fair, an opportunity to meet and buy affordable work from artists directly.

Amongst the local chefs taking part will be Daniel Moon, from Ston Easton Park, Nick Reed from Blostin’s Restaurant, Andy Jones, of Tee Time Catering, and Mark Lees of Crayfish Capers. Jean-Christophe will appear on the Sunday of the show only.

Jean-Chistophe began his career aged 14 as a baker in his home town of Arras, in Northern France. His life changed completely when he arrived in Great Britain in 1983 and spent a year taking care of TV chef Keith Floyd’s pub, The Maltsters, as Head Chef, whilst Keith was filming.

Today he runs a hugely successful cookery academy from his home in Hertfordshire.

Jean-Christophe Novelli will be at the festival on the Sunday

A visit to the Somerset Food and Drink Fest is perfect for families with lots of opportunities for youngsters to enjoy some hands-on cookery experiences. There will be live music and the organisers promise some great “street food”, real ales and ciders for grown-ups.

A spokesman for the celebration said: “The event will have opportunities to taste, learn about and enjoy locally-produced food and drink from small and medium-sized producers along with some famous local names.

“The Somerset Food and Drink Fest aims to bring the best of the region to one place for a rather special weekend of great fun for all the family to enjoy.

Tickets are now on sale for the event. They admit to both the Somerset Food and Drink Fest and the Somerset HeArt Fair. For details, call: 01749 880168 or visit: www.somersetfoodanddrinkfest.co.uk

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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Whatʼs new from Myrtle Farm

FOOD & DRINK

A round-up of events from Thatchers Cider in Sandford

Thatchers Cider Family Open Day

AROUND 3,000 people came to Myrtle Farm on 12 September to see behind the scenes at our Open day. Tours were given around the farm and cidermill, taking in every aspect of cider making, from the orchards and harvesting of apples, through to the fruit pressing, the 150 year old oak vats, and bottling and kegging.

There was children’s entertainment; craft stalls; activities from local sports groups; hand pressing of fresh Katy apples with the Wrington apple group; the Mendip Morris Men, and music from bands The Cherry Pickers and The Polden Ridge Mountain Boys. Weston Hospice Care ran a raffle, and the Bumble Bee Conservation Trust were on hand to explain to visitors why bumble bees play an important part in pollination.

Our Open Day was part of the ‘Made in North Somerset’ Festival that takes place across North Somerset from 12 September to 4 October.

A huge thank you to everyone who came and helped make the day very special.

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 Tel: 01934 822862 MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 27

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Aldwick Court is a winner

WE ARE NOW 4* RATED

Join us at The Natterjack this Christmas for some delicious festive fayre Bespoke Christmas Menu available from December 1st – at only £24.50 per person. Locally sourced fresh produce beautifully prepared offering the discerning diner a wide selection of delicious meals – see website for details. Confirmation and pre-orders required 2 weeks before your visit Distinctive Christmas Day Menu for just £60.00 per person. A selection of traditional and modern dishes to celebrate this special day with us – see website for details. Confirmation and pre-order required along with £25.00 deposit 2 weeks before Christmas Eve Fabulous Abba Night on New Year’s Eve with great local singer ‘Kayleigh’ – come and party with us into the new year with style! See website for details. Confirmation and pre-orders required 2 weeks before

natterjack

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOER 2015

FOR the second year running Aldwick Court Farm and Vineyard hosted the 2015 South West Vineyard Association (SWVA) annual awards competition.

Judging of 141 entries took place on Monday, September 7th. The following day, Aldwick's managing following an excellent lunch director Sandy Luck (right) provided by Aldwick’s and vineyard manager Elizabeth (left) congratulate caterers Tastebuds and a tour of the Homefield vineyard by good friend Luke Ford of Sutton Ridge Vineyard on 60 vineyard and winery his debut entry rosé owners, the results were achieving a silver medal. announced by SWVA chairman Ian Edwards of Furleigh Estates.

Aldwick itself won two bronze medals and a silver for its Jubilate fizz.The Cellar Door, where you can sample and buy wine directly from Aldwick Court Farm, is open Monday to Thursday 10am – 5pm or by prior arrangement on Friday and Saturday. Alternatively, wine can be purchased through their website www.aldwickvineyard.co.uk/wines and there is free delivery on all orders within five miles.

Local Stockists are Blagdon Post Office, Budgens, Langford, Lye Cross Farm Shop, Redhill and The Wine Shop, Winscombe.

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Newly refurbished Lounge • Restaurant • Function Room • Bar Large garden with play equipment New patio areas Extensive menu – Meals from £4.99 Choice of real ales, cider and fine wines Food served all day 12noon – 10pm and 12noon – 9pm Sundays

FOOD & DRINK

New Inn, Bath Road, Farmborough BA2 0EG 01761 470350

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 29

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N e w f a ce s a t B l e a do n F a r m S ho p FATHER and daughter team Mike and Zoe Solomon have recently taken over the Bleadon farm shop, café and Post Office.

Zoe said: “Whilst the cafe and shop have been here for some time, we have already improved the cafe area and installed patio doors bringing this wonderful autumn sunshine inside.

“With the added benefit of outside seating, our customers are enjoying sipping their coffee whilst watching Weston Croquet Club play opposite the cafe – this really is the location with the view.”

The cafe and farm shop share the same ethos of sourcing high quality food and refreshments from local suppliers, such as Bradley juices, John Thorners and Havercrofts.

The cafe serves a range of hot and cold food, home-made cakes, including gluten free options. The farm shop has the added benefit of a post office, daily newspapers and an extensive range of products including locally sourced fruit and vegetables, making it possible to do the family shop, but also purchase those special dinner party extras such as

truffle oil, caviar, champagne and chocolates.

Mike explained: “We are very excited about our future plans.

We have just secured the concession for the ‘Cook’ range of frozen gourmet meals and we will also be selling Christmas hampers, Christmas trees and turkeys. There is a range of local art on display, and for sale, highlighting the talent we have here in our local community."

The cafe and shop are open seven days a week. With lots of free parking, fully accessible facilities and a newly refurbished function room the cafe and shop have lots to offer. Make a date to visit, you will be assured of a warm welcome.

Reservations are available and you can follow them on Facebook to find their latest offers, events and information.

Facebook: Bleadon Cafe

Bleadon Farm Shop

Coming in October – Cook gourmet frozen meals

Fresh fruit and veg from local suppliers Local farm shop products, cheese, jams and preserves Mendip Moment award-winning ice cream Local Bradley juices Local, Beer, Cider and a selection of quality wines Fresh Bakery Free range eggs Havecroft Ham and Bacon John Thorners meat and pies

Monday to Friday 7.30am-6pm • Saturday 8am-4pm • Sunday 8.30am-2pm

Bleadon Café

Breakfast served daily including Sunday Home-cooked food Home-baked cakes Superb coffee hand-roasted in Somerset Private functions catered for Large room for business meetings Local paintings and photographs on display

Monday to Friday 9am-4pm • Saturday 9am-4pm • Sunday 9.30am-2pm

B l e a d o n C a f é a n d F a r m S h o p, P u r n W a y, B l e a d o n , W e s t o n - s u p e r - M a r e B S 2 4 0 Q F T e l 0 1 9 3 4 8 1 5 5 8 4 • Em a il in fo @ b le a do n c afe. co . u k • F ac e b o o k: Bl e ad o n ca fe

PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOER 2015

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Home dining with Zoe

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FORMER café owner Zoe Emery has launched a new venture – a home dining experience for food fans.

Zoe, who used to run the Rock Cake Cafe at Maesbury, has started The Home Dining Experience, producing Zoe in the purpose-built traditional home-cooked meals catering kitchen at her home from her own property in in Gurney Slade Gurney Slade.

Zoe is opening her home to foodies who would like enjoy a different way of dining. Visitors will be able to pre-book certain dates and taste succulent locally-sourced meats, vegetables,and dairy products that have been prepared by Zoe in her purpose-built catering kitchen, which is also available for hire to people preparing for events or parties.

Zoe said: “I would like to thank customers, suppliers, staff, entertainers etc. who supported me over the last five-years at the Rock Cake Café; it has been a blast!".

Although The Home Dining Experience is foremost in her ventures, Zoe also runs an events business with her husband Paul where they supply services such as photography, security, catering and entertainment – all the ingredients for holding a successful event!

Zoe is contactable on her mobile number for details on forthcoming dates and menus.

DATES

Friday 2nd October from 7.30pm Sunday Roast Sun 4th October from 12 noon

Halloween Special!

Saturday 31st October from 7pm

Further dates are being added. Please enquire Christmas Party Specials Dates now being taken

We also provide outside catering and deliveries

Jade Cottage, Gurney Slade Radstock BA3 4TQ

FOOD & DRINK

ME OF FEATHERS U L Rickford, Nr Burrington, P North Somerset BS40 7AH

l

01761 462682

Scrumptious Pubs Ltd Kate and Daniel Jackson www.theplumeoffeathers.com

Christmas Menu 2015

l

Available from 1st December • 2 Courses £19.95 • 3 Courses £ 22.95 Starters Whitebean soup with chilli oil Pressed ham hock terrine with spiced apple compote and toasted malt loaf Prawn and spring fritters with sweet chilli jam Sweet potato arancini balls Main Course Roast Turkey with pigs in blankets, bread sauce and sage and cranberry stuffing Salmon fillet stuffed with sun dried tomato and olive butter wrapped in prosciutto Pork escalope with apples, brandy and cream Mushroom and squash vegetarian Wellington

All to be served with roast potatoes, mashed parsnip, maple glazed baby carrots, braised red cabbage and garlic sprouts.

Desserts Christmas pudding filo strudel with brandy cream Profiteroles filled with vanilla ice cream and salted caramel sauce Baked honey, lemon and ricotta cheesecake with raspberry coulis Local cheese with spiced apple chutney and biscuits All of our meals are homemade and local produce is used where available.

Pre ordering is essential and a £6.00 deposit is required.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! The Waldegrave Arms Christmas Menu

Parsnip & Bramley Apple Soup Potted Shrimp, Wholemeal Toast Serrano Ham & Plum Tomato Bruschetta Balsamic Onion, Goats Cheese & Walnut Salad

Turkey Ballotine Rolled with Chestnut & Cranberry Stuf-ing, Pigs in Blankets, Roast Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables Rare Roasted Sirloin, Yorkshire Pudding, Roast Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables Poached Fillet of Salmon, Caper Crushed Potatoes, Chive Butter Sauce Leek, Chestnut & Blue Cheese Pie, Roast Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables

Traditional Christmas Pudding Apple & Mulled Cider Tri-le with Egg Nog Cream Chocolate Delice with Black Cherries

£22.50 per person If you have any food allergies or requirements, please speak to a member of staff

Book now for your Christmas parties and Events!

Christmas Menu available from December 1st

www.thewaldegravearms.co.uk • 01761 221429 MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 31

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MENDIP TIMES

Festival fuels their passions

FROM trucks to tractors, cars to motorbikes, the Somerset Festival of Transport offered something for every vintage and classic vehicle enthusiast. Held at Wincanton Racecourse, the two-day event enjoyed sunshine on the first day but downpours the next meant the show had to be cancelled.

A labour of love: David Aylward with his fully-restored 1956 Field Marshall 3a. The tractor spend several years in Spain

A novel was to get around the festival site

Former military fire engines like this have been popular amongst the stock car fraternity …

Seeing red amongst the commercial vehicle displays

… with some nostalgia in the windscreen

The Southern Armour Group, part of the UK Tank Club, staged displays of scale model fighting vehicles PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

This Reliant pays homage to the iconic film Clockwork Orange

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EVENTS

Scarecrows raise a smile

DOULTING’S second scarecrow competition inspired villagers to new heights of imagination as part of the annual produce and handicraft show.

A high flying tribute to the RAF of World War Two

Time to relax in Padfield Green

Binegar Village Day

Everyone’s a winner: Georgia, Charlie and Caitlin Hill won prizes for their entries

Picture of perfection: Harry Godden’s prize winning trug of vegetables

Alban and Angela Bunting enjoy afternoon tea with Angela’s sister, Gloria Bianco Raising funds for the 1st North Mendip Scouts were (l:r): Paul Hardiman, Jean Marshall, Callum Rich and James Stone. The group, which meets in Binegar, would welcome new members: visit: www.1stnorthmendip.org.uk

Vintages vehicles stop at the event during a tour of the area

Even heroes enjoy ice cream: Kathey West (as Anna), Robson Howe (as Captain America) and Emma Scott (Elsa) take a break on the stall run by Bristol and North Somerset Mascots MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 33

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MENDIP TIMES

Make a date during Somerset Art Weeks AFTER graduating from college, John Richardson started working for Artist Partners Illustration Agency providing illustrations for advertising agencies, book publishers and magazines.

After a spell as a freelance illustrator in Paris, where he started selling paintings, he moved back to England to write and illustrate children’s books.

He has written and/or illustrated over 50 children’s books including the Bad Mood Bear series, which has been selling for over

20 years, and the Budgie the Little Helicopter series for the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson.

He has continued to illustrate for leading publishing houses and businesses requiring advertising/promotional material but also paints as a fine artist.

He’s showing his work this year during Somerset Art Weeks. His paintings range from Surrealist imagery, through detailed wildlife and decorative design based images to system art abstracts.

Chew Valley showcase

AFTER 13 successful years the Chew Valley Arts trail is one of the Chew Valley’s best supported annual events.

Whether visitors take the trail by car, bike or on foot it offers good art, good craft design, good fun and of course the whole area is well known for its beauty and excellent hospitality.

This year they are opening 24 venues across the area over the weekend of October 10th and 11th from 10am to 6pm daily.

Organiser Sandy Bell said: “The object of the exercise is to provide an opportunity for all the artists to promote their work and provide visitors with an enjoyable day out.

It’s pleasing to see our visitors returning year after year, which means they must like what they see.

“We are lucky to have some very talented young people in the area who wish to show their work, alongside the more experienced. There should be something for everyone’s taste.”

The distinctive brochure is widely available, giving a taste of the stunning work on show, from sculptures and glassware to paintings of every style, illustrations, photography, pottery and jewellery.

It’s a great opportunity to browse or buy and also to visit some interesting places to have a break for refreshments.

Details: www.chewvalleyartstrail.co.uk Sandy Bell – 01275.333128.

John Richardson paintings

Wildlife, Surreal and Abstract Somerset Art Weeks Catalogue venue 92 October 3rd – 18th 2015 Open 11am–6pm

Greenacres, Cross, Somerset BS26 2EF Tel: 07979 697662 PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Charity’s £7,000 windfall

CLEVEDON Salerooms have a long association with St Peters Hospice and run training sessions for their charity shop managers on what to look out for.

The training paid off when one of their staff spotted this Chinese blue and white vase standing 41cm tall that had been handed into the shop. They duly contacted Clevedon Salerooms who confirmed the vase was in the order of 200 years old and was duly entered in the salerooms’ September quarterly specialist sale.

With the market for Chinese works of art remaining very buoyant, telephone and internet bidders battled against one another, the victor paying £7,000 to secure the vase. If you have Chinese works of art you may be thinking of selling why not attend one of the salerooms’ free valuation days for a noobligation appraisal.

FREE VALUATION DAY . . .

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE ANTIQUE VALUATION DAYS

£23,500

£19,600

5 6 7 & 19 20 21 October 9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary

£4,300 £5,150

£2,950

Free Jewellery, Silver & Watch

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

Valuation Day At the Salerooms Tuesday 27th October 10am – 4pm

Next Specialist Sale Thursday 19th November MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 35

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MENDIP TIMES

New exhibition in Wells

JULIA Davie says that ever since she was old enough to hold a paint brush or a pencil, she has always tried to draw or paint horses. In 2013 she won the Chairman’s Choice award at the Royal Bath and West Show and has had various commissions.

Now her work is being exhibited at the Loranjo Gallery in Wells which says it is very keen to support local artists and looks forward to holding further exhibitions in the future.

Cabinet reshuffle at Wells Trading Post

Locally Based Ar st ‘Loranjo’ is proud to support

JULIA DAVIE in a SOLO EXHIBITION of her Equestrian Artwork

at Loranjo’s Art Space, (First Floor above Tincknells), 2-4, Glastonbury Road, Wells, Somerset BA5 1TH

Sunday 25th October 2015 – Saturday 31st October 2015 Weekends 10.30-3.30 and Weekdays 10.30-4.30 There will be original artwork, prints and cards for sale during the exhibi on.

Julia is happy to accept other choice commissions

Oak, Pine and Country Furniture Vintage Fashion and Interiors

Old Priory Mill, West St, Wells, BA5 2HG. Tel: 01749 671454 www.wellstradingpost.co.uk • email:tanithtradingpost@gmail.com PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Lois receives her prize from actress, singer and dancer Anita Harris

VINTAGE and antique dealers are being invited to join the team at Wells Trading Post in a new venture.

A number of display cabinets at the Aladdin’s Cave that is Wells Trading Post in West Street are to be made available to rent by people in the trade.

The initiative is just the latest venture at the emporium which is now in its third decade. Robin Tothill, who runs the business with wife Tanith, said: “We aren’t the kind here to stand still. We thought it would be a great opportunity for others to benefit from the huge number of visitors we have.”

Wells Trading Post is currently enjoying an increase in the amount of quality wooden furniture in stock, particularly in oak and pine. One of the highlights is a laboratory bench, originally from Sidcot School, which would make a stunning side table in a farmhouse-style kitchen.

G Vintage and retro expert Lois Wickett, who works at Wells Trading Post, took second place in a national competition at the Twinwood vintage, music and dance festival in Bedfordshire.

Stretching a point: Tanith and Lois with a piece of 1950s “health apparatus”: an exercise belt made for women by a company in London

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Art deadline extended

ORGANISERS of the annual Black Swan Arts Open 2015 in Frome have extended the deadline for entries until Saturday, October 3rd.

It is an “open submission” competition, so all artists can enter in any medium. Artists enter by uploading digital images of their original artwork online at the Black Swan Arts website. The judges will select over 100 artworks for the exhibition.

The event offers professional and emerging artists alike the chance to be exhibited at an important gallery where their work will be seen by hundreds of visitors. Each artist selected has the opportunity to win significant prizes, including the Hauser and Wirth Somerset First Prize of £750, the Black Swan Arts Prize of a Solo Show and the Frome Town Council’s People’s Choice Award of £250.

This year the competition is to be judged by a panel of experts from galleries, education, media and art including Simon Barber, editor Evolver magazine, Luke Piper, an artist, Jennifer Scott, director of the Holburne Museum, Professor Anita Taylor, the Dean of Art, Bath School of Art and Design and Alice Workman, director of Hauser and Wirth.

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Light the night

AN arts project is planning a spectacular alternative in Radstock to the usual Halloween events – a lantern procession and fire garden.

Light the Night is being organised by DNA Arts, a community organisation working across the South West.

During half-term, free drama workshops with Natural Theatre and Desperate Men will be held on Monday, October 26th and Wednesday, October 28th at Victoria Hall with lantern workshops at Whisty Hall on Thursday, October 29th and Mardon’s Social Club on Friday, October 30th. The lantern procession will begin from Whisty Hall on Saturday, October 31st at 6.15pm and head for St. Nicholas Church for 7-9pm.

For details, contact Amanda Sheridan or Emma at Black Swan Arts on 01373 47398, email: office@blackswan.org.uk or visit: www.blackswan.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 37

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MENDIP TIMES

Warrior’s club is a big hit

AT their Country House Sale at the Mendip Auction Rooms on September 12th, Killens saw strong bidding for the 500 lots on offer.

A number of lots amongst the carefully selected entry generated surprises with the greatest excitement being seen for a 19th century warrior’s club that was met with strong interest in the room, on the internet and on the telephone, eventually selling for £6,800.

All sections saw strong bidding with silver, furniture, collectables, jewellery and pictures seeing strong bidding for quality items.

A two-handled silver tray by Elkington & Co, Birmingham achieved £1,400 whilst a delightful pair of bronze models of greyhounds met with competitive bidding in the room selling for £1,250.

In the pictures section, a pair of sporting oils by J. Farmer made £1,600, an unusual watercolour by John Varley £1,400 and an oil by James Humbert Craig R.H.A. of Loughanure, Co. Donegal £1,200.

A number of items of jewellery sold exceptionally well with rings meeting reinvigorated demand with a number exceeding £1,000. Amongst the smaller items, a mid-19th century tortoiseshell snuff box sold for £900 and a mid-

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

This pair of bronze greyhounds sold for £1,250

18th century inkwell £1,000. Of local interest, a decorative tea canister, manufactured by Parnail & Son, Bristol, painted to advertise "The great Hardeen. King of Jail Breakers. Brother of Houdini. Grand Tour of Britain 1905” sold for £1,250.

The general sale of modern items held on September 22nd was the largest such sale held since the opening of the auction rooms in 2013 with in excess of 600 lots of furniture, ceramics, glassware, pictures, rugs, clocks, collectables and unusual items going under the hammer.

Buyers packed in to bid strongly for all items on offer.

Entries are now being sought for future sales.

Details: The auction rooms can be contacted on 01749 840770 or log onto www.mendipauctionrooms.co.uk. Nicky Houston and Gareth Wasp undertake valuation days every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am – 5pm or are content to undertake a free home visit. House clearances can also be arranged.

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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EVENTS

Village at its best

COLEFORD is celebrating another successful village day after the event was revived in 2014.

Organised by the Coleford Revival Group – a community project – the event ran alongside the annual Coleford Flower and Craft Show, which was opened by Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis.

A television crew from the French station TF1 was on hand to capture the day for a documentary showing life in rural Britain as part of its coverage in the run-up to the Rugby World Cup. Harry and Cody, from the Bluebird Acoustic Café in Stratton-on-theFosse, perform in the marquee

Councillor Philip Ham with Michael Eavis next to the flower and craft show trophies. The show dates back more than 115 years

Paul Wells, from Shoscombe, with his 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 Coupe which won best in show

Joan Lee won first prize for the best handmade toy with Jemima

David Hayward, from the Irish Retriever Rescue charity with Jilly, Cassie and Lucy

Knowing your onions – visitors admire the displays MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 39

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INTERNET

iPad tricks and treats

TO open a new tab, just tap the + sign on the top right corner of Safari. But if you want to find pages you visited before, tap and hold the + sign and you see a list of Recent Closed Tabs. Tap Done if you change your mind, or the tab you want, to go straight there.

Scammers are always trying to find ways of tricking us, and you can get a “crash report” if you are using Safari, which freezes your device. You then get a claim that a “third party application” has caused the iOS to crash and says you should ring a UK number for an immediate fix. But they will charge you up to £50 to “fix” it, but it’s easy to unlock the screen – first, turn on Airplane Mode by swiping up from the bottom of the screen and tapping the plane logo (or tap Settings and turn on the airplane Mode slider to On). Now Delete Safari date by tapping Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data. Then close Safari, exit Airplane Mode and restart your device (hold down the On button and wait for Restart to appear and then tap it).

Apple’s support pages have more info https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201265 And don’t forget – phone calls supposedly from Microsoft are also scams, it is not possible for anyone to know whether you have a problem with your computer. You could just tell them you don’t have a computer!!

Lost your phone?

Go to Google Chrome on a PC and type “find my phone” (without the quotes). Now login with the Google account you use on your Android phone and you should see a map with your phone’s location, so you can just go and find it. Or you can click the Ring option and it will ring on full volume for five minutes or until someone switches it off. If you are lucky, a friend will find it and bring it back! Find My Phone does not allow you to lock or erase your device should it be stolen or, say, left at the local pub – you will still need Android Device Manager to do that.

Submitted by IT for the Terrified: The Old Cowshed, Station Road, Cheddar BS27 3AG 01934 741751 • www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. For more in depth information, please contact us.

We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you; a session lasts 2 hours and costs £10. We can cover a range of subjects – including absolute basics; photo management; shopping online; emailing; Word processing, spreadsheets; basic web design; etc. on a range of devices, including Windows Vista/W7/W8/W10: Macs: Tablets: iPads: smartphones.

We also run a Computer Drop in session 1.30-3.30 Thursday afternoons. Call in for a quick word of advice/help/info.

Or if you can spare two hours and week have skills on any level that you would like to share with others, please get in touch.

PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 1. Adjust pace north to tree (5) 4. King Edward in turmoil of revenge grows constant (9) 8. Care to deteriorate? (5) 9. L-shaped study produces functional space (5,4) 11. In days gone by I took in criminals (4) 12. Say yes and stay (5) 13. The editor secretly gives notice (4) 16. Life-changing pin in aorta is repositioned laterally (13) 19. Painter of sorts, imbued with spontaneity, creates rise and fall in sharp relief (13) 20. Game pair out of sorts after lunch (4) 22. Air in general here is hot (5) 23. The law is harsher on transgressors who harbour intent (4) 26. Could Victoria ever return as..? Could Victor? (4,5) 27. In a muddle on board (2,3) 28. Places everyone’s security in wheeler dealer’s hands (9) 29. Start among scenery (5)

DOWN 1. Top up kettle for light read (9) 2. Leader is cool embracing twisted crush regardless of safety (9) 3. Takes away barriers (4) 4. Reach it, cleric, maybe reach a seat at the end (8,5) 5. Swing up, pose and look stupid (4) 6. Bound around the internet, presumably with amorous intent... (5) 7. Damon goes full circle (5) 10. Able, accurate, a spectacular achievement (13) 14. Wakes in a state of confusion, upset (5) 15. Produces new confectionery (5) 17. Scar is sun induced consequence of selfadmiration (9) 18. Get a new hat or else not bother (4,5) 20. Celebration in general gives a lift (5) 21. Cuts risks (5) 24. Promise return of eggs and wheat (4) 25. A bit of a laugh, and look, a sign of special quality (4)

Compiled by Felkov

Go to www.felkov.co.uk to enter your solution in the prize competition for a chance to win £50 September answers see page 113

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Working together – Chubb Bulleid and TG Pollard

Page 76

CHUBB BULLEID

TWO of mid-Somerset’s best known firms of solicitors are joining forces.

Chubb Bulleid Ltd and T G Pollard & Co are both independents with deep local roots. The latter was founded by Tim Pollard in 1961 with offices at 1 Sadler Street, Wells before moving to bigger premises at Avenue House, where the firm has remained to this day.

“We are pleased to be joining forces with Chubb Bulleid, who we know very well,” said John Boucher, senior partner Working together: the Chubb Bulleid and T G Pollard & Co teams Beresford in Wells which had nearly of Chubb Bulleid. at Pollards, “so creating a larger firm 150 years of legal expertise and Bulleid “With our combined expertise we will able to meet all our clients’ needs, now Leeks & Co, which was formed in provide an even better service for clients and into the future.

“Both our firms have strong links to the Street and Glastonbury 70 years or more old and new. We look forward to an local community, and we are confident ago. exciting and successful future together.”

The partners and staff of T G Pollard that our traditional strengths and values In 2004 the firm of Alan R Walton & and Co are moving into the Chubb Company based in Somerton was will be enhanced as we grow.”

Bulleid’s offices in Wells and Street on incorporated within Chubb Bulleid.

Chubb Bulleid Ltd are based in the October 1, and will remain available on “We have great respect for the centres of Wells, Street and Somerton. their existing phone number 01749 The firm as it is now known was formed experience and skills of the Pollards’ 674722. team,” said Richard Cussell, a director in 1997 by a merger between Chubb

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 41

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MENDIP TIMES ECATCHER MOL

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

CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY

Stock up for winter

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

P & C Logs

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).

C a l l Ph i l o n 0 7 73 4 09 8 32 3 , o r C ol l ee n o n 0 77 8 5 25 0 03 3 o r o n E v e n in g s 0 1 7 6 1 2 2 1 5 4 3

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

PHIL and Colleen Croker run a firewood business from their farm in Charterhouse and with winter approaching it’s the perfect time to fill your wood store.

They supply quality seasoned beech and ash hardwood.

The logs are chopped and split and a variety of load options are offered, all with free delivery and a friendly prompt service.

Details: Phil 07734098323; Colleen 07785250033; evenings 01761 221 543.

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Prepare for the taxman

AS we move rapidly towards the autumn (I categorically refuse to mention Christmas without parentheses to explain that I am not really mentioning it) we are also approaching that time when the tax return panic commences.

It is bad enough having to ensure that one's selfassessment return is completed correctly, but to then find that there is an unexpectedly large chunk of money to be paid to the exchequer can come as a nasty shock.

Unlike Wat Tyler (leader of the Peasants' Revolt), we don't have to take our lives in our hands to complain about our taxes to our government, but pleas still almost always fall on deaf ears.

The best way to deal with a tax bill (which, as most people know relates to the previous tax year i.e. next January's deadline will refer to the year 2014/2015) is to get your return done as early in the year as possible and then to put aside money towards it in a separate savings account in monthly instalments.

Now, not everyone can be this organised. Some people always respond to deadlines and cannot seem to prepare before it's absolutely necessary and some (and you know who you are!) can't even respond to deadlines, but sail past them in HMS Optimism, thinking that perhaps HM Revenue and Customs won't notice them.

There’s bad news for you folk. The tax man will always,

BUSINESS and I mean always, catch up with you eventually, and it always costs more with fines added to fines and more interest than when Welsh rugby fans are at a home match in the Millennium Stadium.

If you are in this situation already, don't despair, but talk to the CAB who can recommend various debt planning charities. If you have a tax agent (such as an accountant) and have still managed to come a tax cropper, your agent may be able to negotiate a repayment scheme with the Revenue on your behalf.

This can still seem punitive as the tax man wants his dosh, and wants it NOW, but it may ease the pressure sufficiently to enable you to settle your tax debts and move on.

If you haven't yet begun to look at your annual tax return, and you do have to complete a self-assessment return (and are not taxed at source by your employer), then please PLEASE get a move on.

If you then get stuck during the process, you can approach some nice, polite, organised accountant, who, with luck and a following wind, will be able to sort out your problems and get your tax return in in good time and with minimal extra grey hairs.

Have a great Chr ... er ... autumn!

Jane Bowe Probusiness

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 43

Photo by Ignyte Limited, Radstock.

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MENDIP TIMES

UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES MG Rover Land Rover Specialists

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

MOT TESTING STATION

COMPETITIVE PRICES ON TYRES, BATTERIES AND EXHAUSTS

ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY SERVICE

QUALITY USED CARS Your peace of mind is our priority

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

PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Minister promises support for cider

Martin Thatcher (left) with Damian Hinds

BUSINESS

TREASURY minister, Damian Hinds, had the chance to see this year’s apple harvest when he visited Thatchers Cider in Sandford.

Thatchers expects to press around 20,000 tons of apples this season, harvested not only from its own 400 acres of orchard in Somerset, but also from other apple growers in the South West and other parts of the UK. Mr Hinds met Martin Thatcher, managing director and fourth generation cider maker of Thatchers Cider, who is currently chair of the National Association of Cider Makers.

Keen to see the apple harvest at first hand, and talk to cider-makers about the issues and opportunities facing the industry, Mr Hinds also met Fenella Tyler of Heineken UK, and Barney Butterfield of Sandford Orchards.

During the visit, the NACM took the opportunity to talk to Mr Hinds about government support for the cider industry, including the current duty exemption for cidermakers producing less than 70hl of cider for sale each year.

Mr Hinds also saw how Thatchers Cider continues to invest in its cider-making facilities at Myrtle Farm, including a new tank building which will have capacity for 36 125,000 litre storage vessels, required to meet the increasing demand for the firm’s ciders.

During the tour of Myrtle Farm, Mr Hinds visited The Railway Inn, Sandford, which has recently been re-opened

by Thatchers following a major investment. Having spent 18 years working in the pub, brewing and hotel industry, this was of particular interest to Mr Hinds.

Martin Thatcher said: “Cider is a British favourite but we are an industry in need of support. This year’s 2% duty cut from government was a welcome first step and as a result our industry has continued to make long-term investments which will ultimately lead to further opportunities for growth.”

Mr Hinds said: “Cider makers play a crucial role in our rural economy, particularly in places like the South West.

That’s why I’m pleased that our action to support cider makers is seeing results.

“As we work with cider makers across the country over the coming months, we will seek to find ways to support them in the future and help maintain the wonderful choice and diversity we have in cider.”

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Portrait of a village

The finished mosaic on the Mead in Blagdon

THE Blagdon Mosaic was unveiled to a crowd of villagers on The Mead in the village, after a display by the North Somerset Samba Band.

Artist Wendy Phillips, who led the project, was joined by some of its main supporters. One of them, Tony Staveacre, said: “Wendy galvanised the village into doing something extraordinary.”

The mosaic, depicting cricket, orchards, fishing and other aspects of village life, involved around 150 villagers, including those who helped with fundraising, which was supported by the Mendip Hills Fund and the Andrew Addicott estate.

Wendy, who moved to Blagdon four years ago, said the arts were an essential element of community life and she hopes to establish an arts and crafts centre in the area.

Mineworkers reunited

NEWS

Michael and Francis present bouquets to the lunch organisers

ALMOST 50 former employees of the Somerset Coalfields gathered at Radstock Museum for their annual reunion lunch.

The event is organised by museum volunteers and supported by the Somerset Miner’s Welfare Trust and the Radstock Co-operative Society. Welfare Trust President Michael Eavis was amongst the guests.

It had been feared that the annual get-together would end two years ago before the museum and the society stepped in to help.

Trust chairman Francis Hillier said: “We had reached the stage where we couldn’t carry on. None of us was getting any younger, so we are most grateful for the support we have received.”

Former coalfield employees and museum team members gather in front of the Miner’s Wheel in Radstock

Pictured (left to right) Maggie Mooney, Mike Adams, Wendy Phillips and Tony Staveacre

The North Somerset Samba Band

Graham Milsom (left) and Ernie Bailey chat over lunch MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 45

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MENDIP TIMES

Wells Moat Boat Races

Former Wells MP Tessa Munt competes with one of the teams

Teams line up for the final of the Community Challenge Cup …

The Ladybirds team from Harris and Harris win the Business Challenge Cup

… which Scooby-Doo wins by a whisker

Wells Air Cadets winning the Air Cadet Shield for youth groups PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Just one of the teams who donned fancy dress for the races

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Mendip Mower Racing and Beer Festival

EVENTS

Evercreech Village Show

Members of Evercreech WI running the tea and cake stall

NOW in it’s fourth year, Mendip Mower Racing braved the elements over the three-day Bank Holiday to provide the public with exciting racing, live music and a fine array of beers and ciders.

Sponsored by YMCA Somerset Coast for the second year running and organised by the British Lawn Mower Racing Association, the festival also featured a very popular family field.

Live music welcomes visitors to the exhibition marquee

The YMCA team with YMCA Somerset Coast CEO Martin Hodgson second right.

One of the bands appearing at the festival – Giants Lay Buried.

This award-winning display by Hazel Fry was entitled Long Hot Summer MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 47

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EVENTS

Axbridge Showcase

The children enjoyed Punch and Judy

Pied Piper Jonathan Weeks

Selling home-made items for charity (l to r) Olivia, Chloe, Molly, Elissa, Maja and Maggie the dog The event had a 1940s theme.

Jess Ford in charge of the bar

The farmers' market was busy

Chalice Morris performing in The Square PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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Bravery awards

FOUR RNLI volunteers from Weston-super-Mare are to receive Royal Humane Society certificates of commendation for rescuing a man from Birnbeck Pier.

The man was too ill to be rescued by boat so the lifeboatmen, with two police officers, carried him across the unstable pier to be treated by paramedics. Weston lifeboat abandoned the station there two years ago because the pier had become so dangerous.

The lifeboat crew were (left to right) Dave Ridout, Dan Hawkins, Andy Stone and Liam McDermott.

Aid for foodbank

(left to right) Major Sharon Robinson, Sam Jordan and Linda Quinn with some of the food donated

THE Inner Wheel Club of Chelwood Bridge has donated food to the Somer Valley Foodbank in Midsomer Norton.

It was delivered to the collecting point at the Salvation Army by last year's president, Sam Jordan, and last year's district chairman, Linda Quinn, and was received by Major Sharon Robinson.

The food was collected over a few months after Inner Wheel members heard how so many people go hungry and rely on foodbanks.

The foodbank is appealing for more toiletries and cleaning products, as well as food.

PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Music and merriment

AN evening of music and merriment in aid of Dorothy House Hospice raised £5,000. It was held at Emblems Farm, Frome, courtesy of David and June Millard.

The evening started with a welcome drink, hog roast and desserts provided by The Frome Friends of Dorothy House group. Entertainment was provided by various local artists.

The friends next event is a bingo night on October 9th at The Venue, Frome Football Club.

Details: Dorothy House 01225 721480

Charity stalwarts rewarded

THE Chew Valley branch of the RNLI has been busy collecting awards – and money. Their Summer Supper with Shanties at Chew Valley Sailing Club raised £1,850 while the annual house to house collection raised £3,605.

Roy and Jenny Ireson, from Chew Stoke, who have been the branch’s quiz masters for five years, are pictured receiving an award at the RNLI’s awards ceremony at its headquarters in Poole. The quizzes are likely to resume next year.

Long-serving members of the branch committee also had their efforts recognised, with Gillie Slater, chair, and Tim Gracey, secretary, being presented with bronze badges whilst Bob Shapland, treasurer, received a silver.

The branch’s next event will be its ever popular curry lunch on November 6th at Ubley Parish Hall. The last few years have seen the ‘sold out’ signs up, such is demand, so the advice is to book early.

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CHARITIES

Charity day is child’s play!

A FUN day at Tincknell Country Stores in Wells has raised almost £2,000 for the Time is Precious charity.

Dozens of families packed the store’s car park for activities ranging from go-karts and face painting to demonstrations of chainsaw carving.

Nicky Halford, from Time is Precious (left), with event organiser Matt Shellard and Andrea Pniok and Beth Harvey, from Enchanted Parties

Eliot, aged four, meets members of the fire crew based in Wells

Danny Unwin brought along his three alpacas for children to meet. The animals included his namesake who is notorious for spitting!

Some high speed action on the go-kart track

Ed Dickens, from Tincknells, with his French Copperblue Maran hen

Youngsters make friends with Cheeky, the donkey MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 51

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Classic car fundraiser

Just hair-raising!

Hair we go – the Brave Shaver sits in the main arena as hairdresser Amanda Chapman set to work

The cheque is handed over

A CLASSIC car show at the Sundowner café in Brean has helped raise £650 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Members of Bridgwater Classic and Vintage Club and the Blueridge Runners American Auto Club were amongst the exhibitors. A further £53 was raised when café co-owner Vic Perrin volunteered to have his head shaved.

Rotary’s class act

VETERAN singer Rosemary Squires spoke about her 60-year career at a recent meeting of Chelwood Bridge Rotary.

Born Joan Rosemary Yarrow in Bristol, she went on to become an international jazz, big band, cabaret and concert singer, singing with bands such as Geraldo, and appearing with singers like Matt Monroe.

Earlier the rotary club and Chelwood Bridge Inner Wheel presented cheques for £1,800 each to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Designability, makers of the Wizzybug, raised at their Last Night of the Proms event at Writhlington School’s Prospect Theatre.

Clothes wanted

THE Teenage Cancer Trust is planning another of its popular sales of quality new and pre-loved clothes and accessories at Coombe Lodge, Blagdon.

The sale will be held in March and they have already started collecting ladies’ clothing and accessories.

Details: Lady Paula Wills paula@langfordcourt.co.uk 01934 862338.

PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

DEB Dando was cheered on by well-wishers after volunteering to have her head shaved during Coleford’s Village Day in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, raising more than £500 for the charity.

Hair’s looking at you – Deb says goodbye to her long locks

Pedalling to Spain

EDWARD Owen, who lives in Ubley with his wife Louise and their dog Skye, has got on his bike to raise money for charity by riding to Santander in Spain.

Edward, aged 38, who runs his own accountancy business, is raising money for Crohn’s and Colitis UK. He said he’s been cycling for fun for a number of years but never faced a challenge like this.

Details: www.justgiving.com/EdwardOwen2

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Swimming the Scillies

IAN Munday, from Timsbury, whose friend’s father died just seven weeks after being diagnosed with cancer, has completed the Scilly Swim, a 15km swim around the Scilly Isles, to raise money for the charity that helped him.

Ian’s friend, Larisa Green from Wells, who also took part in the swim, lost her father Richard, 70, to cancer in January this year.

Ian, aged 51, who has been deaf since birth, said: “The Scilly Swim is a challenge for me; it will be just over two years since I had my back operation and almost exactly two years since I started swimming again and struggled to swim 200m without stopping. However, some people face challenges every day after a cancer diagnosis and they will be my motivation.”

Larisa, aged 45, who has also been deaf since birth, said: “Dad was fit and healthy, played football in his younger days for Wells FC, always ran and was still running up to the age of 67 and played badminton almost to the end.

“He faced his cancer challenge like he faced everything, life is for living, enjoy it. Although he died only seven weeks after being diagnosed, Ian and I decided Macmillan give support to so many cancer sufferers that we wanted to support them.”

Ian and Larisa hope to raise £1,000 for the charity.

Rotary beer festival

CHARITIES

Some of the team behind the annual festival

THE Wessex Beer Festival charity event celebrated its ninth anniversary with a weekend of pints, food and live music in Chilcompton.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Somer Valley, the festival once again took place in a marquee in the grounds of The Court Hotel.

Be a good neighbour

OLDER people’s charity, the Royal Voluntary Service, is appealing for Good Neighbours volunteers to help local older people stay independent, safe and well.

The service offers confidential telephone befriending as well as home visits to help with daily tasks such walking the dog, changing a light bulb or just sitting down for a cup of tea and a chat.

Laura Goringe, Royal Voluntary Service operations manager for North Somerset said: “Our volunteers provide a lifeline for many vulnerable and lonely residents but demand is growing and we are really keen to hear from more people willing to volunteer their time.

“Royal Voluntary Service aims to help older people stay independent and active and ensure that no older person is left struggling on their own. We have volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life. They have the satisfaction of knowing that by giving a few hours each month they can transform someone's life."

Volunteers need to be good at listening and talking to people.

Training is provided by Royal Voluntary Service and travelling expenses are paid. Driving roles require the use of your own car and a full, clean driving licence.

Details: Contact Sharon Donkin 01275 400945 sharon.donkin@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

Sam Forsey, Meredith Lloyd and Nigel Lloyd settle in for the evening

Glasses and tasting notes ready to welcome fans of real ales and cider MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 53

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Charity’s new boss

QUARTET Community Foundation has a new chief executive, Sue Turner, current director of communications at the Bristol Port Company and former regional director of the CBI. She takes over from Caroline Duckworth, who has been appointed treasurer of the Society of Merchant Venturers in Bristol.

Sue said: “I am thrilled and honoured to have the opportunity to lead QCF as it approaches its 30 year anniversary. From the time that I first started work in Bristol I have admired the QCF’s many achievements, not least the dedication of its staff, trustees and many supporters.

“I am committed to building on QCF’s tremendous track record in making a real difference to people’s lives across the West of England. Working with a wide range of people and organisations, we will continue to meet the current and future needs of communities across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

Robert Bourns, chair of the Quartet board said: "We are grateful to Caroline Duckworth for her leadership of QCF over the last three years, promoting and overseeing a successful expansion of its unique role in identifying need across the West of England and introducing donors.”

In memory of Annie

Emma’s memory lives on

INSPIRATIONAL teenager Emma Welch has been nominated for a British Red Cross Humanitarian Citizen Award by Wells MP, James Heappey.

Emma raised thousands of pounds for Brain Tumour Research before dying during surgery to correct a scoliosis curvature of her spine. Four days before going into hospital she set a new record for carrying teddy bears to the summit of Snowdon in aid of the charity.

Her parents, Lesley and Tony, say they have drawn comfort from the support Emma’s campaign is still receiving.

Tony said: “Life has been incredibly hard since Emma died and each day presents new struggles against the anguish we feel. As her father, my only joy has been watching Emma’s Just Giving page increasing and the number of visits to Emma’s website rising daily.

“For Lesley and me, the extraordinary work which Emma undertook and which is now being continued by her friends in her memory for Brain Tumour Research is both amazing and uplifting.”

Details: to donate in memory of Emma https://www.justgiving.com/Emma-Welch5/

A CHARITY golf day to raise money for cancer research was organised by the Yatton Cancer Research UK group of fundraisers.

Held at Mendip Spring Golf Club, this now annual event was held to honour the memory of Annie Brooks, who lost her very long and brave fight against the disease earlier this year.

Annie was a supporter of the group over many years and also a long-time stalwart supporter of Yatton Rugby Football Club, whose members turned out in force to support the golf day.

The Yatton Cancer Research UK Group has been raising money for cancer research since the 1980s and last year saw the total sum they have achieved exceed £500,000.

The group leader Pam Hale is pictured with the winning team (left to right) Paul Kirby, Bryan Mellor, Colin Stone and Rob Hill.

PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Walking for loved ones

FAMILIES who have lost a loved one are being encouraged to sign up to a special event taking place this October in their memory.

Organised by local charity St Peter’s Hospice the Walk to Remember gives families the opportunity to get together and remember those they have lost while raising money for a good cause. Open to adults, children and dogs the 3.5 mile Walk to Remember takes place on a picturesque route at the Blaise Castle Estate in Bristol on Sunday October 4th.

Details: www.stpetershospice.org.uk or contact Maria at maria.moonpark@stpetershospice.org.uk

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Quilters exhibition

Charity’s royal visit

DRAYCOTT Quilters are holding a charity show on Wednesday November 11th, raising funds for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

They meet every Wednesday evening from September to April and then once a month throughout the summer for one-day workshops.

They make group quilts for various charities and also individual quilts, often as part of a set project, and usually have an exhibition of their work once every two years.

The exhibition is at Oakland House, Draycott, 10am – 6.30pm, admission £3.50 including tea and cakes, with light lunches served from 12noon – 2pm. Parking is available, although prior arrangements would be needed for coach parties.

The countess with Stella Snow and mum Jo

Details: Helen Greenwood 01761 462337, Marcia Filer on 01934 744195, Joan Lewis at doc.lewis@mac.com

Mark runs in Karin’s memory

MARK Wilkins from Long Ashton completed the Bristol Half Marathon running in memory of the wife he lost just six weeks ago.

Mark, aged 53, has been running for 30 years and has taken part in over half a dozen Bristol Half Marathons. But this time he used the event to raise money for St. Peter’s Hospice, which cared for his wife Karin, who lost her battle with secondary breast cancer in July, aged 52.

The couple, who have three children Elly, Izzy and Malin, met while they were at Hull University together. Mark said: “Karin was a really outgoing, social person.

She liked getting out and about, loved a disco and was always about other people. Everyone remembers her smile the most; it started from her toes and beamed out of her.”

As Bristol’s only adult hospice, St Peter’s Hospice cares for more than 2,670 patients each year as well as supporting family members. Mark and a group of five friends who took part in the half marathon have so far raised around £3,000 for the hospice.

Details: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ SomeoneSpecial/KarinDixonWilkins

CHARITIES

A CHARITY which provides hospice at home services to terminally ill children in Bristol, Bath, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire received a very special visit from Sophie the Countess of Wessex.

The countess attended a reception at the Kingswoodbased charity’s headquarters where she met nurses, volunteers, supporters and families cared for by the charity.

The occasion marked what would have been the 21st birthday of Jessica May Purrington who died in 1994 aged four and a half months after being born with the genetic condition Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

The charity was subsequently established by Jessica’s parents, Chris and Philippa, who wanted to support other families caring for their terminally ill child at home. During the visit the countess also unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion.

Chris Roys, chief executive of Jessie May said: “The Countess of Wessex has a special interest in children’s charities and we are already lucky enough to receive some funding from the Wessex Youth Trust so it will be lovely to thank her in person.”

It costs around £1 million for the charity to provide this care yearly and is almost entirely dependent on public support.

Details: www.jessiemay.org.uk

Fete aids charities

TWO charities benefitted from this year’s Blagdon village fete.

Organiser Tina Smith is pictured left with Liz Stagg, from Deki, which provides small loans and training in developing countries, and Kate Hacker from Changing Tunes, which uses music to help rehabilitate offenders.

Both charities received £1,287. They are pictured with the Rev Jane Chamberlain, who said the fete had raised a record amount, with some going to church funds.

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 55

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From Missouri to Mells

(Standing l:r) Project volunteer Sarah Godsill, Martin Bax, chair of the Rook Lane Arts Trust, Colin Kerr, a director of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Beryl Lemon’s sister Jean Shepherd and brother-in-law Peter Shepherd. Seated are Claire Asquith (left) and Beryl

A VISIT by ex-pat Beryl Lemon from her home in St. Louis in Missouri to her sister in Leigh-on-Mendip has led to the discovery of a surviving member of the famous Horner family of Mells.

For 25 years Beryl worked at a school run by a Benedictine community in St. Louis; one of its members is Father Timothy Horner. Now aged 94, Father Timothy was sent to the United States by monks at Ampleforth Abbey in North Yorkshire to establish the school in 1955.

She told Father Timothy – born John Michael Horner – about her visit to Mendip and he gave her some photographs to give to Claire Asquith, the wife of Raymond, Earl of Oxford and Asquith, who live in Mells.

Quite by chance, Beryl’s visit coincided with an event being held in Mells as part of a Heritage Lottery Fund project by Rook Lane Arts Trust in Frome to research the impact of World War One on the village. Called Home of our Delight, the project will commemorate the names of the war dead on the village memorial, including Edward Horner, the last son and heir of the Horner family and Mells Estate and his brother-in-law Raymond Asquith, son of the WWI prime minister. Father Timothy is a cousin of Edward.

The two-year project will culminate in an exhibition, heritage trail and online archive in September 2016, on the anniversary of the death of Raymond Asquith and three other servicemen named on the Mells memorial at the Somme.

Project co-ordinator Jo Plimmer outlines the team’s plans PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Preparing for floods

NEWS

RESIDENTS in Chew Magna at risk of flooding are being urged to take part in a special event aimed at ensuring they are prepared for any future flood. The event, on Saturday October 3rd, will give local people the opportunity to test their flood plan and practice installing protection for their properties.

The parish council, Chew Valley Flood Forum and representatives from Bath & North East Somerset Council and the Environment Agency will be at the Millennium Hall, South Parade, Chew Magna between 10am and 3pm.

Cllr Liz Richardson (Conservative, Chew Valley North), chair of the strategic flood board, said: “It is important residents know what to do and how to react should the worst happen.”

School reunion

DID you start at Midsomer Norton Grammar School in September 1957? If so, there’s a reunion planned for those former pupils who would now be about 70 years young!

It will be a social evening, with partners, on Saturday April 16th next year at The Ship Inn at Alveston, north of Bristol on the A38, conveniently next to a Premier Inn. Details: Pauline (Treadway) on pauline.peregrine@btinternet.com

Woodland memorial

Pictured (left to right) Graham Price, chairman, Les Davies, president, Jan Glynn and her daughter Susie

A STRIP of woodland, near Ubley, has been given to the Mendip Society by its former president, Glyn England, who named it Tania’s Wood after his late wife.

Glyn, a former chairman of the Central Electricity Generating Board, spent 40 years planting trees and flowers around the farm where they lived. He donated the woodland, shortly before he died at the age of 92. His daughters Jan and Gill have honoured his wishes.

Jan said: “It was his wish that the wood should be maintained in perpetuity and I know the society will look after it really well.”

The society will maintain it as a nature reserve, open to the public. Its president, Les Davies, said it would also give them the opportunity to teach youngsters countryside skills.

G West Countryman’s Diary P60

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DURING October many birds will still be absent from the bird table.

With autumn fruits, seeds and nuts still to be found in

By CHRIS abundance, many SPERRING species will be MBE feeding on the rich pickings of nature’s harvest. As I write this in mid-September the fruit of the bramble, the blackberry, is still abundant, and with much of the fruit still green it looks like there will be plenty left in October.

This one fruit alone will attract a plethora of wildlife at this time of the year.

Blackbirds, jays and robins will be joined by small mammals like bank voles and even water voles, and at night badgers and foxes will gorge themselves on any berries they can reach.

There are also many insects which enjoy these fruits. Late butterflies will perch and feed off the very mature fruit, also wasps and a huge diversity of flies, which in turn attract many insect predators. If you go for a walk on an early October morning and come upon a crop of blackberries you can’t help but notice the number of spider webs, at times almost entombing the bush, ready to catch their insect prey.

Nuts are also vital and, unlike the berries, can be stored. Beech mast is a classic example, as the mast falls off the beech tree during early autumn they can, in good years, literally pile up under the parent tree. This then attracts many species to feast upon them, such as badgers, which will use them to help lay down important winter fat reserves. Of course, with such a

A female blackbird

glut of nuts available in one go many animals will take some away to store for leaner winter months. Obviously grey squirrels will collect and bury nuts, but so will wood mice and other mammals.

Clearly the tree needs these animals, because any seed which is trying to germinate under the tree is likely to fail because it will be out-competed by the parent tree for essential things like light, water and nutrients. However, if mice and squirrels take the nuts away from the tree and bury them (and most will be forgotten about) they are more likely to grow into new trees.

The amount of autumn fruit, nut and seed that is produced directly impacts on the success or failure of many different species. A good example is the relationship between beech mast crops and wood mouse populations – it is known that in good nut years many more mice will survive the winter, meaning more mice are available to breed in the spring, which in turn means that mouse predators (such as tawny owls) are more likely to have a good breeding season.

Fallen apples during October are another wildlife magnet. Insects, birds and mammals will all be attracted to rotting apples. Look out for late red admiral butterflies, and as October draws to a close, watch for the wintering thrushes that arrive from the north, often congregating in apple orchards.

So when you are out blackberry picking or tidying fallen apples from

Bank voles are also fond of blackberries

Photography courtesy of Chris Sperring

Blackberries – the stars of nature’s harvest

WILDLIFE

Blackberry time: the fruit will attract a plethora of wildlife, not just humans

underneath your fruit trees spare a thought for the wealth of wildlife that needs some as well.

October is also a great time to look out for migrating birds. I will be leading a walk at Brean Down on Sunday, October 11th. For more details visit: http://swp.hawkandowl.org/events /migratory-bird-walk-on-thesomerset-coast/ Tawny owls are also very active during this month, and if you’re looking for an unusual way to spend Halloween, why not join me on an Owl Prowl on Saturday, October 31st? For more details visit: http://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/ events/2015/10/31/halloween-owlprowl?instance=0

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

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Woodland and estate wonders on this autumn circle

THIS walk on the edge of Bristol takes in the wooded beauty spot of Abbots Pool where the monks used to fish – particularly beautiful in autumn – and then high open Ashton Court estate with great views, a cafe, miniature railway and then the nature reserve of Leigh Woods with fine woodland, before following the Monarch’s Way back. It’s easy walking with no real hills. In Abbots Leigh is the coaching inn, the George, recently restored and serving very good food. You can spot water birds on Abbots Pool, and there are plenty of sweet chestnuts in the autumn.

PARK: In Abbots Leigh village, either in Manor Road near the George, or opposite

With Sue Gearing PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

in Church Lane. Alternatively there is a parking area for Abbots Pool which we pass: Go down Manor Road opposite the George, continue down, bend round and find the parking on the right by a crossing track. (Start walk then from 2. LANE).

The word 'Leigh' comes from Old English 'Leah' being a clearing in a wooded settlement. Abbots Leigh was the special retreat of the Abbot of St Augustine's Abbey, Bristol, where Bristol Cathedral now is.

START: Walk down Manor Road at the side of the George. It is one of the oldest buildings in the village, originally a church house and stable, providing a venue for church ales! During the mid-1750s, churchwardens let the place as a public house with rent being used for the church.

Soon pass on your right the old Priory built in 1831 in Gothic style. Once the home of the Fry family, of chocolate fame, here in the conservatory, Janet Fry bred silk worms to provide silk for her passion for church embroidery. It is now subdivided into several homes. Pass on your left a former manor house, now a care home.

Continue all the way to Grangewood House on the right and take the footpath straight on along the wall. Cross a side drive and go on under trees. Join a stony track and maintain direction dropping down. Go through a kissing gate with an information board about the pool.

1. ABBOTS POOL The three ponds would have been created by damming the brook, probably for the abbot as a fishpond, stocking fresh fish for

the pot. Walter Wills, the tobacco magnate, owned the property from 1915-1945 and landscaped the pond by raising the level of the dam. The Wills family also constructed the cascades below the dam. An island (on stilts) and a cave were created. This beauty spot is now under the care of North Somerset Council.

Legend had it that when Henry VIII shut down the monastery in 1538, the monks' treasure, rather than being surrendered to the crown, was brought here and thrown into the Abbots Pool. But no-one has succeeded in finding it!

Keep on downhill following the wall and fence on your right and down steps to a bridge over one of the ponds. Don’t cross. Go left this side of the lower pond and then go up steps to the higher and main pond. See the cave grotto left. Cross the dam. It is an ideal picnic spot too – great to eat your apple turnover here!

Turn left along the other side of the pool, coming at the end out through a barrier by a parking area. Continue on between apple orchards 2. LANE Cross a lane and carry on up a track, climbing gently, and then flattening out.

Eventually reach the main road. Cross with care and go left for a 50-60 yards and then right through an opening in the wall into Ashton Court estate.

3. ASHTON COURT Ashton Court Estate once the gracious home of the Smyth family, covers 850 acres of woods and grasslands designed by Humphry Repton and is now a major leisure area for Bristol. It dates back to

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before the 11th century and is a great venue for weddings and other events.

Look out for major annual events such as the International Balloon Fiesta in August and Bristol International Festival of Kites and Air Creations in September.

Go in a few yards and then right on the bridleway (white topped posts) which runs alongside the road and then bears away left. The edge of the golf course here is a great spot to see a wide variety of wild flowers. Go across the end of the golf course. Pass a gate into the marked Ashton Court Meadow nature reserve on your right, well worth a visit if you are interested in wild flowers such as wild carrot, yellow-wort and field scabious.

Turn left on a track which comes back down to the wide crossing track to continue from WIDE TRACK). Or, leaving out the nature reserve, continue ahead until you reach a wide crossing track.

4. WIDE TRACK Turn left and follow this all the way across the high open land with great views over Bristol and to your right up on the ridge is Dundry village and church. Start to drop down and see ahead on the right a walled garden. Pass a stone dew pond, a drinking pool for animals. At a crossing of tracks, go left joining the main drive. Reach a barrier and another junction and turn up left up the hill to the golf club and café.

5. CAFÉ The hub here is a good place to stop for a drink or snack. Turn right on the stony path which reaches the miniature railway, open on selected weekends in season and run by the Bristol Society of Model Engineers.

Just past the railway go towards the main

WALKING

7.24k (4.5miles) OS Explorer Map, 155 Bristol & Bath, grid ref: 543 738 About 2.5 hours

road and then turn left under the trees.

Shortly, look out for a gap on the right taking you onto the main road. Cross with care and turn left for about a minute.

6. NORTH ROAD Turn right down North Road (an alternative starting place) left. After about a minute cross and go left through a kissing gate into Leigh Woods National Nature Reserve – the largest expanse of woodland in the Bristol area. Go straight on. After about another minute, fork up left and come to an open area. Turn left along the edge and go through a kissing gate between house and bungalow.

7. N.T OFFICE Come to a National Trust office. When I came in September there were tables and chairs here, and an amazing carved wooden Chesterfield sofa. Go past and turn right on a stony track by Post 41. Continue on and soon pass a wonderful carved wooden crocodile, on the left under a tree.

Just before a gate and fence ahead, turn left through a wall opening and walk straight ahead on the path in the woodland.

8. DRIVE This takes you all the way to the beautiful main tree-lined drive where you go left. At a footpath signpost, turn right on the Monarch’s Way. 9. MONARCH’S WAY Go through a gate and ahead on a grassy track along the field edge. In the corner

follow the edge left (or usage shows that many walkers cut the corner off) and keep going until you reach the next corner with a gate. Go on out to reach a crossing Tarmac track. Cross straight over and go on into a field with Abbots Leigh up ahead. Maintain direction now heading for the church, going down and up the undulating fields, finally coming up through a play and picnic area to the end of the road in Abbots Leigh.

10. ABBOTS LEIGH Turn left, pass the church on your right – a 15th century Perpendicular Gothic building, restored and partially rebuilt in 1847–48 after a fire – and get a magnificent view across to Avonmouth and beyond. Continue along Church Road to the George or to where you parked.

This walk is based on one in the new book of Thatchers Family Walks, published in September this year, and written by Sue Gearing and Les Davies.

There are ten short family circles in the Mendip and Somerset area with an apple or cider theme. They include fun activities to do en-route and things to spot and there is information about apple growing and history in the area of each walk.

Copies at £9.99 are available at the Thatchers shop in Sandford or go to their website www.thatcherscider.co.uk and look for merchandise to buy.

The George, Abbots Leigh, tel: 01275 376985.

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 59

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MENDIP TIMES

OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s Diary

I TELL people that if life was easy, I wouldn’t be needed.

Sometimes however there comes into all of our lives a string of events that make even With LES the most optimistic DAVIES MBE and pragmatic person ask the question “WHY ME”!

The answer of course is quite simple – it’s because we are here and nobody else.

Everything happens for a reason is something my grandmother used to say and she's wasn't far wrong.

Having had two Land Rovers go from beneath me with major engine problems (one of which was a very generous loan to cover the loss of my own vehicle) I am now convinced that my vehicles have conspired to take it in turns to be sick.

There is however a plus side to all this; once a problem has an answer, it becomes an inconvenience and inconveniences are short-lived. So, here endeth the lesson and here begins the positive approach to life.

There are a lot of helpful people in the world but with today’s hectic life we don’t always appreciate that. I found some small local engineering businesses that provided an excellent and very helpful service in overcoming my mechanical mishaps.

I found people who would go that extra bit further to make sure the job got done and I found people that cared about MY problem. It all helps to build a feeling that life is not all about 'take' and profit; perhaps we should all attempt to give a little more, I certainly try.

Although I don’t like to see the summer go, there is something quite special about autumn. My Virginia creeper in the garden is starting to change colour, taking on that lovely crimson hue. The beech trees will soon change from green to gold and, together with all the other deciduous trees, prepare themselves for the winter months ahead.

I received an email from a friend recently who asked me if I knew when summer was, as he must have been at lunch when it happened this year. As ever our problem would appear to lie with the jet stream, which seems to bounce up and down and bring fine or bad weather with it.

We have had dry weather, but not too much warm weather this year – perhaps next year will be better!

You might just about get your copy of Mendip Times before this year’s Mendip ploughing match being held at Stanton Wick Farm near Pensford BS39 4DB on Wednesday September 30th. Do go along for a great countryside day out and watch the ploughs at work, cast your eye over the hedge laying and dry-stone walling before returning to the marquee for lunch.

Entry is free but your support in the marquee would be greatly appreciated to provide funds to keep this long-established event going. I will be covering more of the match next month, but wouldn’t want you to miss it.

The apple crop looks to be good this year and much of the back break has been taken out of the picking with modern machinery. How many orchards were grubbed out because the farmer’s son didn’t want to spend his mornings picking up cider apples from cold wet grass in a mist-shrouded orchard?

Quite a few I would imagine and it wasn’t until the little pedestrian controlled apple pickers came along that things began to change. It was now possible to pick a couple of tons per hour without the back break and cold fingers. I remember only too well that particular experience, squatting in a box to try and put some sort of insulating layer between my feet and the cold ground; fingers wet and numbed by the cold and the thought of nothing apart from the abject misery in which I was required to work.

I know of two brothers in Pennard who would work all day in the orchard and not speak to one another. Thankfully for me such days are a memory and like all memories they tend to take on a rosy tint.

When the sun was shining at the start of the season it could be quite pleasant picking up the apples.

A boy was often employed to climb the tree and shake them down, but today’s health and safety regulations tend to frown upon this activity, along with other juvenile employment such as climbing up inside chimneys to sweep them!

Picking apples for eating and cooking was a different job altogether. Today most of the crop is picked from the ground but I used to climb ladders to pick them. The half standard apple orchards at what was then Long Ashton Research Station needed

ladders to reach the top of the tree, which as we all know is where the very best apples grow.

These were wooden triangular ladders, later replaced by aluminium and allowed you to reach out a little when you were picking; not much though or your centre of gravity moved along with the ladder.

Apples were reverently picked with care and caution. No bruising was allowed and when you emptied the picking bucket into the box the apples has to be let down very gently.

The sound of apples rumbling into a wooden box would draw much unwanted attention from the orchard supervisor.

Boxes would be loaded onto low fruit trailers and taken for storage or grading in the packing shed. Everything was done by hand then and bulk bins had not yet appeared. No-one minded you eating an apple, because you soon got sick of the sight of them!

Have you checked all your walking clothing yet? Is your coat waterproof and boots serviceable; are you looking to get out and about on the hill? If you want some inspiration and a few ideas look to the Mendip Society walk programme, which you can download from the website.

Here you will find a series of guided walks with experienced leaders, just the thing if you are a little uncertain about setting off for a walk on your own, or would like someone else to lead the way.

The Mendip Society has just been donated a belt of woodland near Ubley, that will be open for everyone to enjoy. As president of the society, I accepted the donation of this woodland on September 18th in memory of the late Tania England.

This generous donation was the wish of Glyn England, her husband and a former Mendip Society president. Unfortunately he died before it could be completed.

Finally, I've included a picture of one of those small apple harvesters that helped to stem the tide of orchard removal in Somerset. Hope the weather is good for the ploughing match!

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

PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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YEO VALLEY

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 61

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MENDIP TIMES

From the ordinary to the extraordinary

AUTUMN is a time of year often associated primarily with autumnal tinted foliage in the garden, but we do not always get a year when the With MARY foliage colours PAYNE MBE perform well.

So it is well worth adding a generous helping of berried shrubs or trees to the garden, not only to add to the autumnal interest, but also to provide food for birds and other wildlife during the winter months.

Our native hawthorn gives an abundance of red “haws” whilst the snowberry, often seen in hedges, has an abundance of white berries, but they do not last for long. The bitter fruit of the blackthorn, better known as sloe, do not show up well but make excellent sloe gin and are abundant in a good year.

Wild rose hips add to the interest in a native hedge and are often accompanied by the clusters of shiny red berries of the climbing black bryony. Our native spindle can offer a striking display of pink fruits that open to reveal bright orange seeds.

Euonymus europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ is a selection of this offering good autumnal tints and berries, and makes an excellent ornamental small tree for the garden. Our two native viburnums, the guilder rose with its clusters of shining red berries and wayfaring bush, with red and black fruits, also both offer excellent food for wildlife.

In the garden we can plant a wide range of interesting fruiting shrubs and trees to add to the autumn scene.

For ease of culture and a spectacular display the firethorns (Pyracantha) take top place. Their prickly nature makes them ideal as an impenetrable barrier and the berries last for many weeks.

Choose one of the Saphyr Series for their resistance to fireblight and scab diseases. ‘Saphyr Rouge’ with red berries is particularly fruitful.

Cotoneasters are equally easy to grow and the flowers are loved by bees and nearly all give an abundant display of fruit. The fishbone cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis) may be the most frequently planted, or even selfseeded, but it takes the biscuit for the fiery display of autumn leaves before they fall revealing the equally fiery PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

display of red berries. It is one of my favourites for planting against a difficult north facing wall, where its fishbone shaped bare branches add yet another season of interest.

A kaleidoscope of other coloured fruits are available for the more adventurous gardener. The “super fruits” of the blueberry must have a mention, although not grown for its ornamental fruits, it is well worth growing for its fiery autumnal foliage.

They require acid conditions and so in our area must be grown in a large pot.

For best results two different varieties should be grown. The secret is to keep the pots well-watered and fed, using a fertiliser recommended for acid loving plants, such as rhododendrons. You will definitely need to net the bushes as the fruits ripen, because birds love blueberries as much as we do. This year I have harvested 12lbs of fruit from two bushes, each in a 30cm diameter pot.

Dead man’s fingers is the rather spooky name for Decaisnea fargesii, an upright deciduous shrub from Eastern Asia that bears green and yellow, not very exciting flowers in summer to be followed by clusters of blue pods, resembling the pods of broad beans.

The common name might give the wrong impression but the inner pulp of the pods is edible, apparently reminiscent of a slightly sweet cucumber.

A close relative of dead man’s fingers is the chocolate vine (Akebia quinata).

This is a much more commonly seen climber bearing deep purple flowers in spring. What are not often seen are the extraordinary large purple fruits. Two separate plants are required to achieve cross pollination to get the fruits. So if yours does not fruit give a close neighbour a plant as a present!

Callicarpa bodinieri var. giraldii ‘Profusion’ is the correct but rather long winded name for the beauty berry.

A medium-sized shrub, its insignificant purple flowers in summer are followed by highly desirable tight clusters of small bright purple berries that are best seen once the autumnal purple tinted foliage has fallen. It is best to plant two of these shrubs to achieve good cross pollination.

Magnolias can give a spectacular display of bizarre bumpy, distorted pinky-red fruits in good seasons that

Decaisnea fargesii

are often mistaken for some dire disease.

The mountain ash family of trees offer an interesting range of coloured fruits and many give stunning autumn foliage tints as well making them a popular choice as a garden tree. Our native Sorbus aucuparia produces orange/red fruits but selected varieties, such as ‘Sunshine’ and ‘Joseph Rock’ have yellow fruits.

Our birds seem to prefer the native fruits as they always strip them first, leaving those from abroad until later.

From China comes the pink fruited S. hupehensis ‘Rosea’, an attractive tree with blue green foliage. From Kashmir, we have S. cashmeriana and S koehneana, both offering generous clusters of white fruits.

Most herbaceous perennials do not have ornamental berries but occasionally one comes across the obscure, such as doll’s eyes or white baneberry (Actaea pachypoda). This is a native of Eastern N. America grows to two feet (60cms) with clusters of white flowers in summer followed by extraordinary white berries, each with a black eye, held on swollen deep pinky red stalks. The entire plant dies down for the winter ready to reappear next spring.

As the birds munch away at the array of ornamental fruits you have provided for them and the bare branches remain spare a thought for honesty (Lunaria annua). This common cottage garden plant may not bear exotic fruits but when the autumn fruits and foliage colour has gone the silvery, “pennylike” seed heads remain and sparkle in the winter sun we hope we shall have.

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GARDENING

OCTOBER GARDEN TIPS

If your borders look full and there appears to be no room for bulbs, pot them into largish pots or pond baskets so that they can be dropped into the gaps which will inevitably appear as winter approaches.

Taller tulips and daffodils can easily be grown this way.

Lift dahlia roots and store them in a frost free place for winter. Cut the tops back to about 8-10cm and stand them upside down for a few days to let the excess water drain out of the stems.

Finish bulb planting now, the sooner they are in the ground, the sooner they will start rooting and the better they will perform next year.

If badgers dig up tulip bulbs, plant them in a buried cage made of chicken wire.

Step up the bird feeding this month, a variety of feeds will bring a variety of birds to your garden.

Don’t rush to cut off flower seed heads as these could provide free bird food.

Put up Ladybird, Lacewing or Mason Bee overwintering lodges to help these useful insects overwinter. They will help you with pest control next year!

Install a shelter for toads, hedgehog and bat boxes.

Both these will encourage these very useful and interesting mammals to visit your garden.

Install a birdbath. Birds need to maintain their feathers as much in winter as summer.

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

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Tel: 01934 732 396 • www.timberworkbuildings.co.uk • e.mail: timberbuildings@aol.com MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 63

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MENDIP TIMES

NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH

Sensing the landscape

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ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES – PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Honeyburst Farm

FOLLOWING a successful partnership in 2013, the Somerset NGS is again joining with Somerset Art Works (SAW) to open some of their gardens especially for the Somerset Art Weeks Festival 2015.

Sensing the Landscape is a project specific to certain gardens across Somerset to which artists respond through their own particular media of sculpture or painting. Visitors are invited to look more closely at their surroundings as enhanced by the artists' creativity.

Curated by Karina Joseph from Field, working in partnership with Somerset Art Works, and the NGS Gardens Open for Charity, the whole experience is funded by Arts Council England.

Somerset Art Weeks takes place from October 3rd – 18th, featuring art exhibitions, projects and events in over 100 locations in Somerset. More information can be found at www.somersetartworks.org.uk/abundance There are five NGS gardens opening as part of the festival: Aller Farmhouse, nr Ball Copse Hall Williton, T4 4LY Artist: Eleanor Lakelin.

Ball Copse Hall, Brent Knoll, TA9 4DF Artist: Kim Francis Honeyhurst Farm, nr Cheddar, BS27 3UJ Artists: Helen Carnac and David Gates Little Yarford Farmhouse, nr Taunton, TA2 8AN Artist: Fay Stevens Midney Nurseries, Somerton, TA11 7HR Artist: Edward Chell OTHER GARDENS OPEN FOR THE NGS To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, available from local Garden Centres, or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk

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GARDENING

Village tradition still inspires Preparing for winter

Visitors were delighted by the exhibits

Photos courtesy Phil Gray)

THE 71st Farmborough Flower Show held at Farmborough Memorial Hall attracted growers and exhibitors from the village and further afield.

Organisers said the standard of entries was as high as ever, with quality entries from both experienced and new exhibitors. Flower Show secretary Be Wright said: “Farmborough Flower Show is an opportunity for enthusiasts of all ages to get together and show what they’ve been up to with their garden, kitchen or craft. A lot of people are surprised at winning a prize, but everyone works hard to produce what they show and should be proud of their acheivements. We hope their efforts will encourage even more people to have a go next year.”

The show was established in 1944 as a part of “Farmborough Holidays at Home” with entries concentrating on handwriting, sewing and knitting in addition to fruits, vegetables, flowers and preserves. Today, it is a locallysupported gardening, produce and craft show that encourages amateur growers, artists, bakers and craft enthusiasts to show off their talents.

Next year’s show will be held on Saturday, September 3rd.

The show committee would like to invite anyone interested in helping to contact Be Wright on: 01761 471759 or email flowershow@farmborough.org.uk

WITH the cold weather approaching and the evenings drawing in, there are various jobs that now need attention in the garden.

Amongst the tasks are bringing in houseplants which have been outside and collecting windfall apples for storage.

Autumn winds will mean leaves falling off the trees which should be regularly collected to allow light to reach the soil. The collected leaves can be used to start a new compost heap, or to have that autumn favourite, a bonfire.

Strong autumn winds can also affect fences and fence posts, so now is a good time to ensure that all your fencing and garden timber is in good condition before the winter arrives. Fence panels which have split and rotten or loose posts should be removed and replaced as soon as possible – it is far easier to do this whilst the weather is still relatively mild than it is in the midst of a winter storm.

Somerlap stock a wide range of fencing, trellis, lattice panels, posts, furniture and attractive original garden enhancements. Their experienced and friendly staff are more than happy to suggest and advise you on the best products for your needs.

Somerlap have been supplying quality garden products to people and businesses in Somerset and beyond for over 34 years.

With a substantial range including fencing, sheds, garden enhancements, storage and gates, they have everything you need for autumn and winter.

Details:Visit their Blog (www.somerlap.co.uk/blog) for tips on fencing, garden storage and more.

Vegetables were of a high quality and good size MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 65

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MENDIP TIMES

M i d s o m e r No r t o n i s a c h a m p i o n !

AS Mendip Times went to press Midsomer Norton was named a Champion of Champions in the South West in Bloom awards, one of the country’s top awards. It won joint gold with Falmouth in Cornwall.

The judges said Midsomer Norton had some of the best flowers seen in the region for many years. Their commendation said: “Excellent community involvement has led to a major transformation of the town.

“The entry has immediately put Midsomer Norton on the national scene, they will be representing the South West in next year’s national competition, and it is a credit to the forward thinking of Paul Myers and his dedicated team.”

Weston-super-Mare also excelled winning a Gold award and the Tesco Cup for the first time. Bert and Cynthia Filer from Weston received the Alf Crouch Cup for exceptional support of

Britain in Bloom.

Other local winners were: Keynsham gold, Glastonbury silver, Radstock and Paulton silver gilt, Wells silver gilt

Midsomer Norton’s mining heritage celebrated in flowers

pennant, Temple Cloud gold pennant.

The Trinity Academy in Radstock received a discretionary award for outstanding school effort.

The Midsomer Norton team

The Weston Donkey PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

The team from Weston-super-Mare

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GARDENING

Holy Thorn in “tree of the year” contest

Glastonbury Abbey but all of Glastonbury.”

The European Tree of the Year contest, run by the Environmental Partnership Association since 2011, looks for the best loved trees from 15 countries across Europe.

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THE Glastonbury Holy Thorn in the grounds of Glastonbury Abbey has been shortlisted by the Woodland Trust in its Tree of the Year contest, pitted against nine others from across England.

The charity, with support the People’s Postcode Lottery, is now inviting the public to vote for their favourite tree before Monday, October 12th, with the winning tree going forward to the European Tree of the Year competition in early 2016.

Janet Bell, director of the abbey, said: “The story of the Holy Thorn is one of many legends associated with Glastonbury and the abbey.

When the Thorn flowers, it is beautiful and many find it quite moving that it flowers around the time of important events in the Christian calendar.

“For the Holy Thorn to be named Tree of the Year would be wonderful not only for

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• Spring flowering bulbs – daffodils, narcissus, tulips – with an even wider range of miniatures • Autumn sowing onion sets and shallots • 2016 season seed collections with new specialist ranges by Sarah Raven & Jekka’s Herbs plus sweet peas, Cosmos, Tomatoes & Get Growing • Compost, mulches, soil conditioners & barks inc. multibuy and special offers • Grass seed, lawn treatments & fresh turf (weekly deliveries) • Wild bird food and feeders • Terracotta, glazed, fiberclay and plastic pots and troughs • Calor Gas • HTA National Garden Gift Vouchers LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10.30am-4.30pm

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MENDIP TIMES

Chew Stoke Harvest Home

Local band The Sombrero Society

The team from Chew Stoke school provided teas

Admiring the vegetables

Watching the raffle The main prize winners Richard Crane (left) and Frank Bath

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Sue Lynch won the Victoria sandwich competition for the second year running

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Forget e-mail – try chain mail YOUNG visitors to the Bishop’s Palace in Wells stepped back in time with members of the medieval re-enactment group Bowlore.

Activities and demonstrations included longbow and crossbow weapons demonstrations, combat displays, sword lessons, historical talks, battlefield medicine, and hands-on weapon and armour displays.

Jed Armer tries on a chain mail suit and helmet watched by Chris Russell, from Bowlore

EVENTS

Youngsters practice their sword-fighting technique

An archery demonstration underway

How did they do that? An apple on the head of a young volunteer is “shot” by William Tell MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 69

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MENDIP TIMES

H i g h t ec h h i de a nd s ee k

Braving the weather

EVENTS

Scythers in action

MENDIP Society members got some help again this year in scything their unspoilt wildlife meadow at Slader’s Leigh in the traditional way.

Members of the Geocaching Association of Great Britain were happy to lend a hand, as well as conducting guided walks through the neighbouring railway tunnel, next to the site near Winscombe.

The association has developed a high tech treasure hunt, using GPS, so that people can find waterproof boxes hidden in the landscape and learn more about an area – or add comments to a log – while getting out into the countryside for some exercise.

Here’s a clue – there’s one box in the meadow and another in the railway tunnel. The scything weekend was part of the Mendip Society’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

Laura Rawlings with fete princesses Aleesha (centre) and Mia

FOR the second consecutive year, many courageous people braved the wet Bank Holiday weekend weather to attend the 39th annual Whitchurch Village Fete, which was opened by BBC Radio Bristol Presenter Laura Rawlings.

She interviewed the fete princesses, Mia Spear and Aleesha Moon and praised the organisers for their hard work throughout the year and on such a challenging day. All proceeds from the events go to local charities or organisations.

Jen Harley of the Geocaching Association

The presentation of cups

David of Clevedon Woodcutters

Scything instructor Nick Raymond from Weston

Details: www.gagb.org.uk and www.mendipsociety.org.uk

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Bristol Zoo Volunteers

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Charming Victorian former vicarage for sale MANY dream about living in a large former vicarage or rectory and Killens have launched such a property onto the market.

The Old Vicarage at Compton Dundon enjoys a delightful elevated and secluded position next to the church and in easy walking distance of the village. This handsome Victorian house was built in 1867, is not listed and has been restored into a wonderful family home which has been enjoyed by the current owners for many years, whilst retaining many fine period features.

It has well-proportioned rooms with high ceilings, marble and stone fireplaces, original cornicing, good quality joinery with original shutters, polished floorboards, and flagstones.

Providing eight bedrooms, the house also has a range of delightful reception rooms including an elegant drawing room, a very comfortable dining/sitting room and a kitchen with the must have Aga. Situated at the end of a no through road, this imposing property is set in grounds extending to two acres and the gardens have been nurtured by the current owners. There is a large lawn surrounded by wonderful flower borders, a well-stocked kitchen garden with a Victorian style greenhouse, an orchard and a range of stone outbuildings.

The property also has a solar-heated well-kept swimming pool which is set in its own attractive garden. The Old Vicarage’s position means the house and gardens enjoy peace and privacy.

PROPERTY

Following the introduction of the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2015, residential landlords have an obligation to install working smoke alarms on every floor within rental properties and a carbon monoxide detector in high risk rooms (i.e. rooms with a gas fire).

Matthew Bingham, who oversees the residential lettings department at Killens said: “It is important that landlords are aware of these regulations and take action to comply. A failure to do so could result in a fine of up to £5,000. Those landlords who are concerned can contact us for further advice and support.”

For further details, contact Sally Killen at the Wells office of Killens on 01749 671172 or wells@killens.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 71

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House owners on the move

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HOUSE prices are set to rise by six percent across the UK this year, according to the latest survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

In the South West it says acceleration in house price growth continues with 63% more respondents seeing a rise in prices over the last three months. This is the highest level since April 2002.

The South West region, along with Yorkshire, is also the most confident of price rises in the near term, with 52% more respondents expecting to see a rise in prices over the next three months. Across the UK, the RICS price indicator reached a 16 month high in August, with a net balance of 53% more respondents reporting price rises and firm growth.

RICS says prices now look likely to rise in the region of 6% over the course of 2015, compared with 3% predicted at the beginning of the year. The strongest price growth is forecast in Northern Ireland, where prices are now anticipated to rise by 11% throughout

PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

2015.

In contrast to other regions in the UK, in the South West the pace of new instructions over the past month outpaces that of new buyer enquiries and as such the region has posted a solid growth in transactions, with 19% more respondents seeing a rise in newly agreed sales over the past month.

It says sales expectations also remain positive in the region, with 23% more respondents seeing a rise over the next three months.

Simon Rubinsohn, RICS chief economist, said: “Given current market conditions, the latest data unsurprisingly shows house prices continuing to rise, and at an accelerating pace.

As such, house price inflation has now quickened in each of the last seven months following a sustained period of easing towards the latter half of 2014.

“And there is good reason for this trend to be sustained into next year, however uncomfortable that may be for those looking to enter the market, given that so many of our members across the UK are telling us that they are struggling to replace the stock they have sold.”

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PROPERTY

From pigs to silk purse Before

Sale is well supported After

YOUR old barn could be a luxury home . . .

A change in planning regulations in April this year opened the door to the possibility of converting agricultural barns into country homes.

One prime example of this is the barn at The Firs near Butcombe, North Somerset. From a nondescript agricultural building approval was gained for a large property which when finished will comprise a striking and contemporary modern family home in an unrivalled position with superb views. Gaining approval has allowed a relatively low worth shed to become a significant asset, adding substantial value to the holding.

David James & Partners have been successful in gaining a number of these approvals across the Mendip and North Somerset area. John Williams Bsc (Hons) at their Wrington office would be happy to advise on the potential of your agricultural building and discuss how you too could benefit.

DON’T LEAVE IT TOO LATE AS THE INCENTIVE IS DUE TO END EARLY 2016. Give John a call on 01934 864306 or email him at john@davidjames.org.uk.

We look forward to hearing from you.

CHEW VALLEY, WEST HARPTREE

A very special cottage in a glorious location with views spanning the Chew Valley Lake and beyond. A superbly appointed and extended detached cottage located in a rural lane between West and East Harptree. This delightful property oozes tranquillity and peace; superb open plan living space with Aga and French doors to the garden, large sitting room with woodburner, double bedrooms, polished limestone shower room. Cottage gardens and parking. Epc: F. Ref; 24942 PRICE GUIDE £525,000

LOXTON, WEST MENDIPS

A large detached period farmhouse located in the centre of the village with views to Crooks Peak.

Walled gardens and orchard, ample parking and detached stone and tile garage. Kitchen with Aga, three/four reception rooms with open fireplaces, four large double bedrooms, bath and shower rooms, cloakroom and utility. Some TLC required. EPC: F Ref: 24899.

PRICE GUIDE £675,000

DAVID James and Partners held their annual collective machinery auction at Winchester Farm, Cheddar on September 5th – the sun was shining this year which made a welcome change!

They were pleased to receive a good selection of quality machinery to sell as well as a range of livestock equipment. The Environment Agency once again entered a number of lots with the Larson Metal receiving a particularly high level of interest.

Other lots that sold well included 2 x Ifor Williams 12ft livestock trailers which made £1,350 and £850, Ifor Williams 10 x 5 flat-bed trailer with sides and ramp – £875, Haybob PZVicon 300 – £500, PZ140 wood chipping machine in good condition sold for £1,800, Romac 3m power harrow – £800, 75 KVA Perkins generator – £600, Marshall dungspreader – £900.

They also had the unique task of selling two boats and a church pew in this year’s auction! They had a strong turn-out of 200-plus buyers and experienced an excellent trade for seasonal items.

CHURCHILL, NORTH SOMERSET

A charming detached house located in the centre of the village offering well appointed family accommodation over two floors with the majority of the living accommodation located on the first floor with lovely southerly views over its garden and up to the Mendip Hills. 5 bedrooms, en suites, 3 reception rooms, pretty garden, garage and parking.

EPC: D Ref:24830 PRICE GUIDE £530,000

MARK, SOMERSET

Former car dismantling yard with a detached family home with large outbuildings, yard and 2.68 paddock and orchard. The accommodation comprises four bedrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen and conservatory. The site still has a valid car dismantling licence.

Ref: 24929 EPC:E PRICE GUIDE £500,000

Wrington Tel: 01934 864300 MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 73

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A first-class match

Harry Hutchings, from Maiden Bradley, won a clutch of trophies including best work by a member of Frome YFC and best work by a ploughman working within a ten-mile radius of Frome

EVENTS

Winscombe Michaelmas Fair

Cocktails anyone?

Ian Craddock, of Hilperton, with his dog, Scrumpy Jack

JUDGES praised the high standards of skill on show during the 57th Frome Young Farmers Ploughing Association match on land near Nunney.

More than 60 ploughmen competed in 12 classes at Westdown Farm. A spokesman for the judges, who came from as far afield as Cornwall and Warwickshire, said: “The ground wasn’t always easy, but this was a first-class match.”

The winners were: Class 1: Don Williams; Class 2: Richard Masters; Class 3: Harry Hutchings; Class 4: Rich Norman; Class 5: John Harris; Class 6: Tim Hurley; Class 7: Gary Haberfield; Class 8: Michael Taviner; Class 9: Jeremy Jacobs; Class 10: Brian Reynolds; Class 11: Ian Stevens; Class 12: Andy Stacey.

Tori and Ellis with a Scops owl from Avon Owls of Banwell

Judges praised the quality of work

(l:r) Gary Haberfield, from Farrington Gurney, Michael Taviner, from West Harptree and Tim Hurley, from Pensford

A gift every time MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 74

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£10,000 prize for energy busting school

EDUCATION

Chewton Mendip

C of E Primary School CHILDREN from Chewton Mendip Primary School have been awarded £10,000, after beating tough competition from across the country in a nationwide energy saving challenge.

Chewton Mendip is a small village primary school, parts of which date back 150 years. Over the past decade the school has worked hard to reduce its energy consumption by installing photovoltaic (PV) and solar panels.

Now the school will be able to explore the use of grey water to flush toilets and the use of more solar power to heat its outdoor swimming pool.

The school’s Energy Busting Team, made up of five students aged seven to 11 years took part in this year’s Schools Energy Challenge, which is organised by companies Utilyx and the Mitie Foundation.

They monitored energy usage across the school and created a PowerPoint presentation which included video clips and a stunning use of minecraft building blocks to illustrate the improvements they wanted to make to their school.

The team Oliver, Thomas, Alfie, Rosie and Alfie were delighted to be told in a school assembly that their presentation had won against four secondary schools from across the country. They were presented with a cheque in assembly by Samantha Venables and Stephen Barthorpe from the Mitie Foundation.

Clare Rice, headteacher of Chewton Mendip Primary School, said: “I am thrilled that the Energy Team has scooped up this prestigious prize. I know the hard work which was involved in their presentation and I am very pleased their efforts have been recognised.”

Open Morning Tuesday 6th October 9.30 —11.30am

A popular village primary school.We would love to show you our great school. If you are unable to attend on this date, please phone the school office to make an appointment for a different time.

Chewton Mendip VA Primary School Chewton Mendip BA3 4LL 01761 241465 https://slp5.somerset.org.uk/webs/chewtonmendip MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 75

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It’s never too late to learn – focus on U3A IF you have retired from full-time employment you are eligible to join U3A – an organisation dedicated to providing stimuli and opportunities to learn new skills. It is never too late to start a new interest or learn more about something already familiar.

No qualifications are necessary to join and no qualifications are awarded. Chairman, Steve Wright, said: “Some people may be put off by the title of University of the Third Age but it is really a quite different sort of animal.

“We aim to provide an enjoyable opportunity to occupy our leisure whilst in the company of like-minded people without pressure or criticism.“ Street and Glastonbury U3A has been in existence for over 25 years and draws upon the knowledge, experience and skills of its own members to organise and provide interest groups in accordance with the wishes of the membership.

Steve said: “Our aim is to provide educational, Lise Payne leads one of three quilting creative and leisure groups

Enrolment day at Glastonbury Town Hall

opportunities in a friendly environment.”

This year over 50 new members have registered already joining some 350 established members for a wide range of activities. New groups for this autumn include Chinese brush painting, badminton, Ukulele for beginners and body calm meditation.

There are now some 45 groups ranging across sports activities, language skills and cultural pursuits. So over 400 members will take part over the next 12 months. There is a small annual subscription of £10.

There are local U3As all over the UK, which are charities in their own right and are run entirely by volunteers.

Steve Wright said: “Whilst we have already had an enrolment day there is still plenty of time for anyone to join.”

Details: Julie Hillman, membership secretary 01458 446643 or see www.u3asites.org.uk/street-glastonbury

Strode gets results

YOUNG people who are in their final year of school should now be thinking about what and where to study after their GCSEs. Making the right choice is important as this will help to shape their future success.

They can be confident that if they choose to progress to Strode College in Street to study A-levels, a vocational course or an apprenticeship, they will thrive, reach their full potential and go on to achieve their university and career ambitions.

Strode was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2014 and the college is consistently in the top 3% of schools and colleges nationally for student progress – students gain higher grades than predicted based on their GCSE results (ALPS).

Strode students achieve excellent results and they are 16% more likely than the national average to gain a place at university, while many others progress into employment, self-employment and apprenticeships.

Strode College specialises in sixth form education for 1618 year olds, with specialist teaching, resources, facilities and social opportunities. With so many courses available, school leavers can find the right course and mix of subjects to suit their future ambitions.

Strode also offers quality and affordable university-level courses, including degree, foundation degrees, HNDs, HNCs and higher professional qualifications, as well as hundreds of part-time courses for adults.

Register online at: www.strode-college.ac.uk

PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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Hazlegrove goes MAD for children in Nepal!

HAZLEGROVE pupils responded magnificently when challenged to be MAD (Making a Difference) for children affected by the earthquake in Nepal. Tasked with raising £15 to provide a school bag, the reaction was overwhelming and Hazlegrove welcomed the local charity School in a Bag team for some serious bag packing.

On a blisteringly hot afternoon, the Pre-Prep and Years 7 and 8 packed over 200 bags. It was tremendous fun and the children were earnest in their approach, taking their role seriously whilst enjoying the satisfaction that someone less fortunate than themselves would benefit from their fundraising.

This was just the first phase of packing, Hazlegrove had responded to the challenge by raising £8,385.50 which accounts for an extraordinary 559 bags! More bag packing will take place soon.

Hazlegrove continues to thrive and the nursery and pre-prep provide the

best possible start. Small classes and experienced class teachers ensure that the children master the building blocks fundamental to their learning in future years.

Back this up with an array of specialist taught activities including forest school, music, drama, tennis and games with full use of the prep school facilities it’s not surprising that

Details: Sarah-Jane on 01963 442606

EDUCATION

Hazlegrove pre-prep children are happy children.

Nursery and pre-prep places are available but be warned very few spaces remain in the prep school for 2016 but transition for pre-prep pupils to Year 3 is assured.

Do arrange to visit either at an open morning or by appointment – you will be assured of a warm welcome.

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 77

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Carnival goes global

THE heritage, memories and traditions of Somerset’s carnival processions will be captured online thanks to an innovative new project awarded £7,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The Carnivals In Somerset Promotion Project will stream a series of six live interactive webcast events which will focus on issues surrounding the carnival tradition.

The first will be on Sunday, October 11th from 8-9pm live from the Glastonbury carnival sheds as the build-up begins. The second will be live from the newly-resurrected Wincanton Carnival on Friday, October 16th, from 6-7.45pm followed in November by a live webcast from Burnham-on-sea carnival.

Wincanton is on the Wessex Grand Prix circuit, as is Castle Cary where the children’s carnival takes place on Saturday, October 10th with the main event on Saturday, October 17th.

The project will also encourage people to share their own carnival heritage; provide opportunities to contribute to the wider knowledge of carnival; and allow people to contribute their own comments and opinions for others to share and interact in online activities and through social media. The programmes will then be available as an archive.

The HLF announcement came on the eve of Frome Carnival which attracted thousands of visitors to the town for the afternoon children’s procession and the main evening event.

Chairman of CISPP, Dr Andrew Tallon, said: “We are very excited and proud to have been awarded our third grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund for our carnival project. This heritage media project is new to West Country carnivals and will hopefully engage existing and new audiences to the carnival tradition”.

Hilary Kennard drove some of the carnival royalty in a 1930 Rolls Royce Phantom II owned by her partner Michael Rogers, of Bruton

The Moxon family celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Frome was one of the communities which provided funds for a Spitfire

Frome carnival royalty

Time for a selfie: members of Hot Rock carnival club PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Laura Evans, from the Pepperbox Nursery entry Seasonal Fairies

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FROME CARNIVAL 2015

Colourful collectors: Frome carnival is unique in that it runs its own charity

Hot Rock CC’s Temple of Light

Kipling Junior Carnival Club’s entry

Lauren Casson and mum Jemma were inspired by a holiday to Antigua

Can we fix it? Highwayman CC, from Shepton Mallet

Youngsters from Oakfield Academy who performed songs from Annie

WHERE TO WATCH CARNIVAL

FROME Carnival heralded the start of the carnival season on Mendip. The main Somerset Carnivals, organised by the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Association are: G Bridgwater: Saturday, November 7th (7pm) G Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea: Monday, November 9th (7pm) G Weston-super-Mare: Friday, November 13th (7.15pm) G North Petherton: Saturday, November 14th (7pm) G Midsomer Norton: Monday, November 16th (7.30pm) (not part of the circuit) G Shepton Mallet: Wednesday, Novemer 18th (7.30pm) G Wells: Friday, November 20th (7pm) G Glastonbury: Saturday, November 21st (7pm) MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 79

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Fan-tastic first fair

FANS of vintage and retro flocked to Glastonbury for the town’s first Brocante fair, which featured everything from burlesque to blacksmithing.

The town became a mecca for collectors and the curious with some 100 stalls in the High Street, the Town Hall and the Assembly Rooms.

Organiser Ian Pirrie with Venus Noir (aka Amanda Perry) who is planning to launch a series of tasteful burlesque-style dance classes at the Red Brick Building in the town

Browsing amongst the many stalls

Sam Smith is hoping to forge a career as a blacksmith. Sam was a regular stallholder at Glastonbury Country Market and has now secured a place on a blacksmithing course in Dorset. The 22-yearold specialises in using recycled metal PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Leela Grosjean prepares her stall featuring Asian collectables

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S t r a t t o n - O n - T h e - F o s s e Fa m i l y D a y

EVENTS

Mercury Explorer Scouts: Ian Tucker, Joseph Meagor, Reuben Swanson and Maggie De-Konning were selling home-made doughnuts. The scouts meet at Radstock Scout Hall

Toby and Phoebe at play

Fun on the giant slide

Simon Field, one of the stalwarts of the village’s Bluebird Acoustic Cafe

Joanna Relf-Dyer, Anya Phibben and Melissa Phibben running a stall to raise funds for the village hall MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 81

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Wartime tragedy remembered

By Mark Adler

DENNIS Cornish was picking blackberries in a field near Paulton in September 1944 when the crash happened; he was 11 years old at the time.

He said: “Something came down in a ball of flame. We didn’t really know what it was but when we went to look there were a lot of bodies.”

Dennis, 82, had witnessed the crash of an Army Horsa glider on its way to the Battle of Arnhem. The 21 sappers of the Airborne Royal Engineers and the two pilots on board were the first victims of Operation Market Garden.

Dennis, a retired miner of Radstock, was amongst hundreds of people who attended the 36th Double Hills ceremony on the edge of the village, close to the scene of the crash. They included serving

military personnel, ex-services, air and army cadets, villagers and others who wanted to pay their respects.

A fly-past by three Army Air Corps aircraft during the ceremony was later followed by a towed glider before the

Lt. Colonel Nick Nichols, president of the Glider Pilot Regimental Association, arrives for the service PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Standards are lowered before the start of a minute’s silence

laying of dozens of wreaths and the reading of The Double Hills poem by eight-year-old Cameron Webber, the grandson of ceremony organiser Peter Yeates.

Matt Yates, from the Chalk Living History Group, who attended the service dressed as a staff sergeant

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The life that I have

HISTORY

Comrades-in-arms: veterans Joe Vrago and Bert Williams, who both live in Chilcompton, make their way back to their seats after laying wreaths at the monument Current service personnel reflect

Tania Szabo returns to her seat to loud applause after the reading

Dennis Cornish, who witnessed the crash

Waves and cheers as the military aircraft pass overhead

THE daughter of a French-born English heroine of the Second World War Special Operations Executive made a special visit to the service at Paulton.

Tania Szabo, whose mother Violette was eventually captured, tortured and killed by the Nazis, read a poem which was used as a code by the secret agents. The poem was written in 1943 by Leo Marks.

Violette was posthumously awarded the George Cross.

The life that I have Is all that I have And the life that I have Is yours.

The love that I have Of the life that I have Is yours and yours and yours.

A sleep I shall have A rest I shall have Yet death will be but a pause.

For the peace of my years In the long green grass Will be yours and yours and yours.

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 83

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Patients know best

ACCORDING to the ever optimistic health secretary Jeremy Hunt, all NHS patients will be able to access their GP records from their smartphone within 12 months. This includes consultations, investigations, diagnoses and treatments.

By 2018, all NHS and social care interactions will be included and patients will be able to add to their online medical records. But guess what? It’s already happening for

By Dr PHIL some.

HAMMOND New technology to give patients more control over their care works best when doctors are equally enthusiastic about handing over control.

One great system, called Patients Know Best, allows NHS teams and patients to work as true partners through a secure ‘Facebook-style’ website where patients can access their records at any time, organise them in a way they can understand, add to them, upload ‘traffic light’ monitoring systems and advice that tells them what to do if an illness gets worse, and to share their records (or not share them) with anyone they choose.

This allows online conversations, and Skype, with many members of a team and family at once. It’s an interactive and empowering system, giving you control, not just access. It requires your NHS team to upload your records and work with you, so you need to ask them if they’re using the system, or something similar.

However, it’s leading the way in the NHS to a move towards more online consulting and less taking a day out of your life to drive to, park and hang around a hospital or surgery.

This system is particularly good for patients with chronic diseases – asthma, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease – where you have to manage your own condition every day of your life. To do it as well as you can, you should have as much control over your data and information as you want to have.

You need moral support too, but with PKB you can involve the whole team.

You can upload absolutely anything to your secure website, all your consultant letters, research you’ve done, etc, automatically. You can even add your end of life choices.

The traffic light protocols for what action to take if your symptoms get worse are brilliant. You know exactly what to do if your condition deteriorates, to seek help, scale up your treatment and prevent hospital admission wherever possible.

There is even a PKB app for the phone and whenever you contact PKB you get a quick reply.

Time in the NHS is always tight so for telephone triage to work, you need to ask specific questions. There is no time for open questions, but if you’re a bit worried about a blood result you can get a quick answer, rather than stew over it all weekend. You can also upload all your records onto your phone for travel.

You can keep a copy downloaded if you don’t have access to wireless so wherever you go in the world, if you fall ill the medical staff will know all about you and your disease quickly. It gives people the confidence to travel and enjoy life and live well with illness.

Patients Know Best has been taken up more by specialist units in hospitals so far than in general practice, but the potential is there for one key health-carer (e.g. Mum) to have access to and control over the whole family’s medical records and hence oversee all their care, check what drugs need renewing, what immunisations have been given, when others are due, what the asthma management plan is, etc.

It’s extraordinary what people can do for themselves with the right training and support and a fair dollop of courage and encouragement. But the right care always needs the right information at the right time. That’s when technology is a game changer. www.patientsknowbest.com Dr Phil’s book, Staying Alive – How to Get the Best from the NHS – is out now.

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Someone’s missing . . .

EVEN the cat is morose; wandering from room to room, he eventually settles in a small, soft space in youngest son’s bedroom. The cause of this malaise is youngest son’s departure to school camp.

He is gone for five days but within five minutes we are all missing the exuberance, incessant chatter, the stray Lego pieces, the dancing, hugs and exploding noises synonymous with our ten-year-old boy.

When I was pregnant with my second child someone said to me: “Having one child is like having a pet, having two is like a zoo.”

I was mystified at the time but I now understand that as you move from one child to two to three and then back down the scale again – owing to sleepovers, camps, school tours – you marvel at how easy life is with just one less child.

We are embarking on our final full year with all three children at home.

The 17-year-old has begun her last year of school and has plans to travel and go to university. At the moment this seems dependent on her finding the perfect balance of school work, pub work, social life, sleep and Netflix.

With youngest son away we have more time to focus on eldest child and debate how she can find equilibrium, only to be reminded by her that we’ll miss her when she’s gone and we will.

At last a postcard arrives. “It’s amazing!” reads the opening line. He lists all the activities he’s enjoying and even fits in a drawing of a climbing wall. Middle child remarks on how much she is missing him.

He is unusually quiet when he returns, so utterly exhausted that he is rendered speechless. We celebrate his return by ordering a Chinese take-away which he is too tired to eat.

We all agree that an early night might see him restored to his normal self but I am concerned by his unusual lack of appetite.

“It’s okay Mum,” he says, in a tone that all children eventually adopt with their parents and which translates as – stop fussing. He then explains: “I ate seven sausages for breakfast.”

MENDIP MUM

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Vintage celebration party ST MONICA Trust’s specialist dementia and nursing care services at Sandford Station retirement community, celebrated achieving a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission by holding a vintage tea party for staff, volunteers, residents and their families.

The Russets clubhouse was transported back to the 1940s, with staff and residents wearing vintage outfits and dancing to hits from the era, before enjoying a traditional afternoon tea.

The report from the Care Quality Commission stated: “It was evident through our observations between people and staff that there were good, caring relationships and people always appeared relaxed and happy during interactions with staff.”

HEALTH & FAMILY

Cider stars

RESIDENTS at St Monica Trust’s Sandford Station retirement community have cause to celebrate when they watch the latest TV commercial from Thatchers Cider, as part of the advert was filmed in one of their gardens.

Coincidentally the garden chosen by the advert’s film director belongs to 11, Hapil Close – once the home of the grandparents of Martin Thatcher, the cidermaker’s managing director.

Residents decided that the location fee from the filming would be given to their entertainment fund, which is used for street and Christmas parties, as well as exercise classes and excursions.

In this case, the residents have chosen to visit the Railway Inn for a special lunch – the local Thatchers pub has very recently opened after a major renovation and is just across the road from the retirement community.

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 85

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Helping those with brain injuries

SERVICE MANAGER Covering Headway Somerset 35 hours per week • Salary £24,500 per annum We are looking for an energetic, creative and self – motivated person to manage our rehabilitation services for adults recovering from acquired brain injuries. This is a varied and challenging role and will be ideally suited for someone who enjoys person centred planning and working towards achieving outcomes with service users and commissioners.

For further details and job description Contact Louise Hawkins on 07794829885 Closing date for Return of Applications is 4pm on Friday 2nd October 2015 Interviews will be held in Taunton week commencing the 5th October

REHABILITATION ASSISTANT 16 HOURS Covering the Mendip area of Headway Somerset We have vacancies for individuals who are flexible, adaptable and reliable, to work with individuals on a one-to-one basis or with small groups of clients. We have three Centres across Somerset, and we provide support either at the centres or in a community setting.

Role Description: The role will be to facilitate rehabilitation to enable individuals to maximise their independent living skills, social inclusion and social reintegration. Some experience/enhanced awareness of Brain Injury desirable. Training will be provided. Will need to be IT literate.

Own car preferable.

For a copy of the Application Form and Job Description Email: louise@headwaysomerset.org.uk Or Telephone: Louise Hawkins on 07794829885 Closing date for Return of Applications is 4pm on Friday 2nd October 2015 Interviews to be held on commencing the 5th October

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

An enthusias)c and friendly group of single people who enjoy organised events

For more informa)on go to www.singleprofessionalassocia)on.co.uk email: wellsandmendip@yahoo.co.uk Or contact Anne – 01934 743139 Veronica – 01749 330455

Headway fundraisers

HEADWAY Somerset is a unique organisation that works to improve the quality of life for everyone in Somerset with a brain injury, their families and carers. They provide a flexible expert service offering information, rehabilitation and support.

Brain injury, usually sudden, is devastating and life changing. Recovery is difficult and protracted - no sticking plaster, bandage, medicine or therapy is available to repair physical damage to the brain.

Accessing services and facilities becomes increasingly difficult, being detrimental to recovery, physical and mental health and well-being. Invariably people affected lose social networks, become isolated, vulnerable, are likely to be victims of abuse and experience extreme hardship.

Headway Somerset provides person-centred care and support in an environment which will facilitate personal development, independence and increase self-esteem. Their focus is on encouraging service users to be actively engaged in developing their personalised support plans along with the service overall offered by Headway Somerset.

Could you adopt an older child?

AS National Adoption Week kicks off this month (October 19th – 25th) Families for Children are appealing to those who have ever thought about adoption in Somerset not to hold back and possibly consider opening their hearts to an older child, sibling group or those with extra needs, who are waiting and will wait the longest.

They say it is these children that they search long and hard to find new parents for. They are particularly keen to hear from people who live in and around Somerset who would consider adopting these children and are urging people to take a look at how they can prepare and support you for life if you choose to adopt.

Details: They are holding an open information day on Tuesday October 20th, 10am to 4pm, at their offices in Taunton. Call 01278 227027 or go to www.familiesforchildren.org.uk

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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HEALTH & FAMILY

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The 12 most common swing faults are: • S-Posture • C-Posture • Loss of Posture • Flat Shoulder Plane • Early Extension • Over-The-Top • Sway • Slide • Reverse Spine Angle • Hanging back • Cas)ng/Early Release/Scooping • Chicken Winging

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MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 87

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MENDIP TIMES

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Staying positive

AS we move into autumn, we are reminded what a positive effect the sunshine has on our mood, and how the approaching winter months can feel restrictive or gloomy.

The old adage ‘when fishermen can’t go to sea they stay home and mend their nets’ suggests when we might not be so active, time can be spent in another productive way. Perhaps it could be timely to engage in some personal development.

Jane Ross-Wheatley invites you to sample a complimentary session of Emotional Freedom Technique to help you move through any blocks in your life, and to help you feel more emotionally able to embrace the day, whatever the weather.

Acupuncture can help

AFTER a long career as a consultant anaesthetist and pain specialist, Dr Georgina Jefferies has been practising independently in medical acupuncture at the Chew Medical Practice in Chew Stoke since January 2013.

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to help with a number of conditions. It is now recommended by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) as a firstline treatment for back pain, knee pain (particularly arthritis) and migraines.

It is also very helpful for some women’s health issues (such as morning sickness in pregnancy, sub fertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome and menopausal symptoms) and also for general well-being.

CAN’T SLEEP? AWAKE AT 4am?

ANXIOUS? DEPRESSED? NOT COPING?

HYPNOTHERAPY CAN HELP! Initial consultation and relaxation CD MIRANDA ROBARTS-ARNOLD BA (Hons) HPD DHP SFBT (HYP) MNCH (Req) AfSFH CNHC CLINICAL HYPNOTHERAPIST and PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Come and have a talk to see how I can help you get back on track, call 07717 170 865 to book an initial consultation or visit www.mirandahypnotherapy.co.uk Clinics held at: Wells Chiropractic & Osteopathy Centre BA5 1XJ Chew Medical Centre BS40 8UE PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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New fertility clinic opens in Bristol AS demand for fertility treatment rises, Bristol IVF Centre will open its doors on October 16th, giving patients the chance to have a consultation with one of the South West’s leading fertility consultants in central Bristol.

Patients can discuss their IVF needs with one of two consultant gynaecologists who have specialised in fertility treatment for over 20 years. Each fertility treatment plan will be tailored to the individual patient’s needs to achieve the best possible chance of achieving pregnancy.

They will be offered mild stimulation IVF as well as the more technically advanced treatment plans available today. The fertility team are experts in their field with a proven track record of success.

The Bristol IVF Centre is located at 58, Queen Square, convenient for those patients working in central Bristol. There is plenty of meter parking available outside the centre for those coming from further afield. Consultations are available during business hours and are charged at £300 including an ultrasound scan.

At Bristol IVF Centre the team use advanced approaches to IVF treatments and fertility diagnosis. They are experts in managing complex problems where patients have had repeated failure in the past. Any licensed fertility treatments, such as IVF or ICSI, that patients may require, will take

HEALTH & FAMILY

place in their state-of-the-art facility just outside Bath, approximately 35 minutes from Queen Square.

Through the Bristol IVF Clinic patients will benefit from exceptional success rates. It has some of the most modern IVF treatment advances for patients, over 20 years proven success and state-of-the-art medical facilities. Equally, their patients value the fertility expertise, professional support and warm personal service they offer.

Patients will be seen quickly as there are no waiting lists.

Various funding programmes are available including the IVF refund package and multiple cycle package, both offering significant savings to self- funding patients.

By combining these qualities, they consistently achieve treatment success rates that put them amongst the top fertility clinics in the country.

Details: Call Bristol IVF Centre on 01179 927211 or email enquiries@bristolivfcentre.com or visit www.bristolivfcentre.com

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 89

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HEALTH & FAMILY

Are you fit for the slopes?

A SKIING holiday is top of many people’s wish lists for a winter getaway, but if you hit the slopes without a good level of fitness you may be in danger of ruining your holiday through tiredness or even injury.

Sue Jackson, personal trainer at Balance Fitness in Timsbury, says that ‘to get the most out of your skiing trip you really do have to have lots of stamina. You might be skiing for four-six hours a day and that’s a lot of physical activity for anyone, even if they already go to the gym.

Sue recommends a combination of regular cardiovascular exercise to increase the heartrate, followed by a series of gentle stretches to prepare the muscle groups you’ll need for skiing. You could also try cycling, running, or perhaps exercise sessions with your fellow skiers.

Balance Fitness offer one-to-one or small class personal training, which most people find a less intimidating and more motivating way of achieving the fitness they want.

We’ve got it covered

Details: www.balancelifestyleandfitness.co.uk

Mendip Times Distribution Points

Mendip Times is available from over 800 outlets across the Mendips from superstores to village stores and post offices, farm shops, supermarkets, garden centres, pubs, inns, hotels and restaurants, doctors’ surgeries, libraries and tourist information centres.

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HIGH LITTLETON HINTON BLEWETT HOLCOMBE HUNSTRETE HUTTON KEINTON MANDEVILLE KILMERSDON LANGFORD LEIGH on MENDIP LITTON LONG ASHTON LYDFORD ON FOSSE LYMPSHAM MARK MARKSBURY MASBURY MELLS MIDSOMER NORTON NAILSEA NETTLEBRIDGE NORTON MALREWARD NORTON ST PHILIP NUNNEY NYLAND OAKHILL PAULTON PENSFORD PILTON POLSHAM PRIDDY

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STOKE ST MICHAEL STON EASTON STRATTON ON THE FOSSE STREET TARNOCK TEMPLE CLOUD TIMSBURY TRUDOXHILL TYTHERINGTON UBLEY UPHILL VOBSTER WALTON WANSTROW WEDMORE

WELLOW WELLS WEST HARPTREE WEST PENNARD WESTBURY SUB MENDIP WHITCHURCH WINFORD WINSCOMBE WOOKEY WOOKEY HOLE WRAXALL WRINGTON WRITHLINGTON YATTON

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Youth club boost

THREE youth clubs in Mendip have received grant funding from Somerset County Council.

Wells Connect Youth were given £3,500 towards the running costs of the Friday youth club. Routes Young People’s Café in Frome were given £3,500 towards the staffing costs of the café, which runs daily Monday to Friday, and £2,745 was awarded to the Red Brick Building in Glastonbury towards the costs of running its Friday night youth café.

They were amongst 14 clubs across the county to receive a share of £35,000. The grants are matched by more than £81,000 in locally-raised funding and hundreds of hours in volunteers’ time.

Councillor Frances Nicholson, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said: “I am pleased that we have been able to support our communities with these grants, which are a top-up to the funds they have already worked hard to raise locally.

“Many of these projects are heavily reliant on the generosity and dedication of volunteers. I’d like to thank them for everything they do, and I hope the grant funding helps ensure these projects continue benefiting the young people of Somerset in the future.”

Village fundraiser

VILLAGERS in Congresbury are busy raising money towards their proposed new village hall/community centre which they hope to have open by late 2017.

They are organising a black tie dinner at Cadbury House, Congresbury on Friday February 26th to raise funds.

Tickets cost £35 per head which includes a three-course dinner and dancing to local band The Skinny Dippers.

Details: www.congnvh.co.uk or contact Ron Hall on 07770 738091.

Last summer tea

ONCE again the opening of Compton Dando's village church for afternoon teas during the summer proved popular, raising £1,000 for the church with nearly 500 teas sold.

There was an added attraction, a pop-up museum, organised

by Alison ter Haar (left) and Liz Stanbury.

COMMUNITY

Raising a glass to a true community effort

Some of the team which organised the first Upton Noble Beer Festival

RESIDENTS of Upton Noble, near Frome, didn’t need to look far for expertise when they decided to hold their own beer, cider and music festival to raise funds for the village.

Amongst the 120-strong community they found everyone they needed who was willing to help stage the first event.

Their skills ranged from a cider maker with excellent contacts to a professional event organiser and financial and IT experts.

Upton Noble has been without a pub since the closure of the Lamb several years ago, but has a thriving school, church and village hall, where the festival was held.

More than 300 people packed the hall and marquee for the opening night, forcing organisers to restock the bar for the following day.

In a Welcome to Upton Noble remarkable example of financial astuteness, the church seed funded the organisers to buy the beers and ciders. Support from sponsors meant organisers could repay the church and, in turn, they financed the installation of new doors in the village hall. With the first festival in profit, the rest of the proceeds will be split between local good causes.

Johnnie Baker, who first came up with the idea of the festival, said: "Upton Noble has lost a lot in the last few years. The pub and Post Office have closed and many local events have stopped. However, the village always has a great community spirit and a will to make things happen.”

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Baltonsborough Show

EVENTS

Glastonbury-based musician Torbz (right) on the main stage

Cheryl Aldridge and Liz Calliari helping out on the St Dunstan’s Church stall

Celebrity Russell Brand chooses a raffle number from Amy Gould, from Wells and Glastonbury Young Farmers, who were raising money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

Happy Birthday! This grey Fergie was exactly 60 years old on the day of the show, August 31st. It is owned by James Allen, pictured with his girlfriend Emma, a music student who was celebrating her 19th birthday on the same day as well!

Charlie, an Australian Shepherd, enjoys the attention as owner Emma Alder, from Curry Rivel, grooms him before the dog show

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The wonders of Wookey THE opening to the public of the 20th chamber in Wookey Hole Cave, as described in the last issue, has seen a huge increase in visitor With PHILIP numbers to this HENDY spectacular show cave.

The ease of accessibility to these large and magnificent chambers is often taken for granted, especially since the cave has been open for at least the last 50,000 years.

In fact, the show cave as we know it was only developed as late as 1927.

Wookey Hole Cave is situated at the foot of a high cliff composed of Dolomitic Conglomerate, a natural concrete containing limestone fragments, formed from screes which weathered along the slopes of the Mendips in Triassic times.

The main cave is formed in the limestone, but the River Axe has found a way through the conglomerate, which once filled the ravine. This river has its source in the swallet caves around Priddy. There are smaller caves in the sides of the ravine, notably Badger Hole, Hyena Den and Rhinoceros Hole.

The caves were first visited by Palaeolithic man and by later humans, who used the caves as dwellings, and as places to bury their dead. There is some evidence of cannibalism. Hyenas also used the caves and their bones have been found, together with those of their prey.

At various times lions, bears, mammoths and rhinoceros lived in the area, together with more familiar animals such as deer and horse, and domesticated species including cattle, goat and pig. Human occupation of the caves continued through the Neolithic right through to the RomanoBritish period.

The first tourist visitors came to see the cave as early as the 13th century, which is when it began to be recorded in literature.

Over the years many of these visitors wrote or engraved their names on the cave walls, a practise we decry today, but which does give us some insight into the past. Herbert Balch, who conducted several archaeological digs at Wookey, recorded the earliest inscription as ‘W.A.W. 1625’.

Until 1975, visitors to Wookey Hole were guided around three large chambers, with the River Axe visible in each. Near

the entrance, the small Goatsherd Chamber leads to the steep Hell Ladder, at the bottom of which is the Witch’s Kitchen, with the huge stalagmite, the Witch, overlooking the wide river pool.

The stalagmite resembles an old woman in profile, with a mob cap and hooked nose – a witch indeed! The legend of the witch dates from at least the 17th century.

Nearby is a small stalagmite, the Witch’s Dog, and it was here that the skeleton of an old woman was discovered by Herbert Balch in 1912, together with goat bones.

This gave credence to the legend of the witch, who was assumed to be a goatherd who lived in the cave with her animals. It was only recently that modern scientific investigations have shown that although Balch was correct in supposing that the human bones were Romano-British, dating from around 70AD, the goat bones are much later, from the Anglo-Saxon period, around 770AD. Passing beyond the witch, there is a conical stalagmite surrounded by a shallow pool – St. Michael’s Mount. Soon the Witch’s Hall is entered, a long lofty chamber, with the river running along one side. There is flowstone on the walls and stalactites in the roof, many of which have fanciful names.

There were more formations here in the past, but around 1745 the poet Alexander Pope had several removed, to adorn his artificial grotto at Twickenham.

A low passage, where it is necessary to stoop, leads to the impressive third chamber, or Witch’s Parlour. This is 30 metres across and the rock must be strong here to support the wide expanse.

Before the weir was constructed at the cave entrance in 1852, to provide a head of water for the paper mill, it was possible to wade or swim into two further

CAVING

Witch’s Dog

chambers. It was here in 1935 that the first British cave dive took place, using hard hats and air pumped by hand through hoses.

Since then, Wookey has been at the forefront of British cave diving and the end of the cave is currently beyond the 24th chamber, at a depth of 90 metres, some 1200 metres from the dive base in Wookey Nine.

In 1974, coal miners from Kilmersdon were employed to drive a tunnel from the Witch’s Parlour through to the Ninth Chamber and today steel catwalks lead visitors there over the flooded rifts of Wookey Seven and Eight. Wookey Nine is high and impressive, with flowstone on the far wall over the sump pool.

Here is the new tunnel to the Twentieth Chamber. The route continues, past maturing cheese and wine, to bring visitors back to daylight in the ravine.

Early visitors to Wookey were shown around by a local guide, who would light the cave with candles and lanterns.

Benzoline or petrol would be thrown onto the cave walls and water and then ignited to give better illumination, although this would be short-lived, filling the chambers with thick black smoke.

In 1926 Captain G.W. Hodgkinson purchased the cave and opened it to the public the following year, using electric light for illumination. Later it was acquired by Madame Tussauds and it is now owned by Gerry Cottle.

Cave divers have always been welcome at Wookey Hole and it is due to their efforts that discoveries have continued to be made, resulting in the opening to the public of the Ninth Chamber, and more recently the Twentieth. Who knows in due course the show cave may be extended as far as Wookey Twenty Four.

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

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 93

(Photograph by Phil Hendy)

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Priston Festival

Cream teas were popular

The crowds enjoyed the sunshine

Time to dance

Beckington Village Day

Barry Lane and the Fridge Mechanics on the Chill-out stage

Take that! Sam (left) and Ollie battle it out in a pillow fight PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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EVENTS

H a p p y d a y f o r a n im a l sa n c t u a r y SEVERAL hundred dogs and their owners took part in a family event to raise money for the Happy Landings animal sanctuary at Pylle, near Shepton Mallet.

Dog agility sessions, demonstrations and stalls were on offer as well as a chance to compete in a number of classes.

Ella and Murphy relax during the judging of the best rescue dog class

Julie Patterson, from Doulting, brought along her pedigree bearded collies Martha and Tilly

The finalists of the best rescue dog class with judges Lesley Garrett and Sarah Singleton. The winners were rewarded with the chance to compete in next year’s Buckham Fair rescue competition run by actor Martin Clunes and his family in Dorset

For information about Happy Landings, visit: www.happylandings.org.uk

Members of the Frukes – the Frome Ukelele Orchestra – in full voice in the marquee

Cakes and other goodies on sale from the Beckington Pre-School team

Musicians serenade visitors to the prosecco bar MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 95

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MENDIP TIMES

Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists

HOMES & INTERIORS

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Tel: 01934 626093/813261 www.westongarden.co.uk

PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

www.tonyhuckertv.co.uk Email: tony@tonyhuckertv.co.uk Unit 4, Fairseat Workshops, Chew Stoke BS40 8XF Open: Mon – Thurs 9.00am – 6.00pm Fri – 9.00am – 5.30pm

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JACKSONS

Jacksons Fencing – news, topical treats and more . . .

A tantalising glimpse through the new gate into a transformed garden space, with smart new fencing, tidy lawn and no mess – a far cry from th clutter in the ‘before’ photo below.

Before: Carla and John’s garden was pretty grim to say the least!

ONE of the things I like about writing this regular magazine page is being able to feature some of the great customer projects we publish on our website. It’s great hearing from customers who send me before and after photos of their projects. I am amazed at the results achieved by people who are determined to transform their garden into a designer dream.

One such tale is from Carla and John Twist, their reason for sending it in has something to do with the large part the new fencing had to play in the total transformation of their garden, of course. Here’s what Carla said: “Having bought our first house together we wanted to turn it into our own little paradise. Not an easy mission considering how neglected it all was. The garden was worst of all, as you can see from the before photos!

“Now it’s finished and we can enjoy our outdoor space. I still find myself smiling at how pretty and light the garden looks. The Hit and Miss Horizontal fence panels we chose play a massive role in extending the garden, and being so attractive the fence never feels like a barrier, but more of a beautiful feature to admire instead. I know it will all mature gracefully together. The fence sparked great feedback from the landscapers and lots of interest from the neighbours as well.”

What a transformation, it’s all beautifully simple, with a lovely minimalist feel and good clean lines, which maximises the space – well done John and Carla!

It has actually opened my eyes to how attractive our Hit and Miss fence panels are. I love the way the sunlight shines through them, illuminating the panels and

After: Beautiful clean lines, with simple borders and the fence as an attractive backdrop

creating shadowy stripes.

Something this reminds me of is Hit and Miss are panels that we at Jacksons refer to as ‘good both sides’. If you look at the photo of the garden through the gate, you can see what we mean – because of how they are made, there are no unsightly rails running across them on either side. This means that both you and your neighbour get the pretty side of the fence. You can find out more about these and other ‘good both sides’ panels, and

W I N A PA I R

OF

see more of Carla’s and other customer’s projects by going to your dedicated page: www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/bathlocal – or for info on any of Jacksons products or brochures please call 0800 408 4754 to talk to your local Jacksons Fencing Centre. louise@jacksonsfencing.co.uk

RAISED BED KITS

To enter the free prize draw to win a pair of Jacksons raised bed kits log on to your dedicated page, address below, and follow the easy instructions. The draw closes 31.10.15. go to: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 97

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HOMES & INTERIORS

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Telephone: 01761 452171 Fax: 01761 453342

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

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EVENTS

Hutton Flower Show

The three-legged races gets under way . . .

The winners Grace Edwards (left) and Kyla Davidson

One competitor gets a helping hand PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

The team from 1st Locking scouts in charge of the barbecue

Admiring the vegetables

The show winner from Dave Rook

Leo and Rosie Woodrow with a giant pumpkin grown by Guillaume Bouffard

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Band celebrates its 35th anniversary

A MILESTONE has been reached in the life of Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band which is celebrating its 35th anniversary. It was formed in July 1980 by the late Angela Lowe and has brought much pleasure to the musicians and listeners over this 35 year period.

To mark this occasion, the band are holding an anniversary concert on Saturday October 3rd in Midsomer Norton Methodist Church starting at 7.30pm.

The concert will showcase the well-established senior band and will also feature the training band academy which includes players of all ages from 11 to 50-plus.

The programme will also include a guest soloist spot featuring Carlton Sykes, the son of Joanne Sykes, the band’s current musical director, and Steve Sykes, a highly esteemed brass virtuoso and world renowned adjudicator.

Carlton currently plays with the championship section Flowers Band from Gloucester and has recently graduated from

MUSIC

the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (University of South Wales). His dynamic playing will headline the celebratory concert and will be a spectacle not to be missed.

The concert will be the pinnacle of what has been a very successful year for the band having achieved a creditable sixth position in the West of England regional qualifier at Torquay in March. The band will be aiming to improve on this next year, giving them their best league position in the band’s history.

The band is keen to recruit new and established brass players and anyone interested in joining is welcome to go along to practice nights. The senior band meets on Tuesday and Friday nights starting at 7.30pm at the church.

The training band meets on Tuesdays at 6.15pm for an hour and the beginners’ group on Fridays at 6.15pm for an hour.

The band is a registered charity and is financially supported by member subscriptions, grants from local councils and businesses and from engagements performed around the area.

Details: Tickets for the anniversary concert are £7.50 on the night or available from the band at hello@msnrsb.org.uk and from Midsomer Norton Methodist church at a discounted rate of £5 in advance.

Musicians gather round

FIDDLERS, flautists, guitarists and bodhran players filled the King’s Head pub in Coleford for the annual Not Mells Irish Music Weekend.

The 25th anniversary event – hailed as “possibly the best Irish music session weekend between Frome and Shepton Mallet” – attracted musicians, singers and friends from across the Plenty of the black stuff country.

All together now MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 101

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The magnificent sevens . . .

BUTLEIGH Rugby Club again hosted a sevens tournament to raise funds for local charities, attracting teams from far and wide to their ground at Kingweston.

And for, the first time in the competition’s 23-year history, Butleigh won! Having seen off a physical North Dorset team 15-10 in one of the semi-finals they faced previous winners Swanage and Wareham in the final and came from two tries down to win 30-15.

Butleigh have raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity over the years including St Margaret’s Hospice, the Dorset and Somerset air ambulance and Riding for the Disable. Currently they are supporting the Butleigh Playing Fields Association, where one of its past chairmen, Colin Gravatt, along with several club colleagues, organises and coaches summer tag rugby for youngsters.

Butleigh RFC

The games were fast and furious

. . . fundraise again

CASTLE Cary Rugby Club has now raised more than £25,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support by staging the annual K7s tournament for the past five years.

The event was started in memory of Kay Booker, a Castle Cary Club member and a formidable character in the world of women's rugby, who passed away aged 39.

Teams from across the UK take part in the tournament.

Players and officials from Cary present a cheque for £3,500 from this year’s tournament to Penny Steiner, chairman of Castle Cary and District Macmillan Cancer Support PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

Aretians RFC from Patchway, North Bristol

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SPORT

By George – Norton player’s rugby role

George at the tag tournament

TEENAGER George West organised a family-friendly tag rugby tournament in Midsomer Norton as part of his role as a World Cup ambassador for the sport.

George, 15, who plays for Midsomer Norton RFC Colts, organised the event at their Norton Down ground to coincide with England’s last warm-up games, against Ireland, before the tournament began.

Part of George’s role is to encourage more people to take an interest in the sport, from playing and volunteering with local teams to simply turning up to enjoy watching a game.

George is one of the RFU’s youngest ambassadors – the usual qualifying age is 16. He said: “I wanted to organise an event which would appeal to all the family.”

Tag is intended to be a non-contact form of rugby

Family fun: teams had to include at least one female player and one youngster

F o s s e w a y ce l e b r a t e s MEMBERS of Fosseway Bowls Club have been celebrating the men's' promotion from Division East 1 to the Premier 2 league after a nail-biting end to the season. This means a little more travelling next year but it will mean facing new challenges and visiting new venues.

Fosseway ladies have also enjoyed an excellent season being runners-up in the Mendip League and finishing close to top in the North Somerset League. Results have not yet been finalised for this league so the top position is still up for grabs.

Details: Ray Soby 01761 453218.

MENDIP • JUNE2015 2015• •PP AGE103 ??

MENDIP TIMEST•IMES OCTOBER AGE

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Marathon’s success

THE Rok the Stones trail marathon around the Chew Valley has been judged the fourth best by Trail magazine which said it was “gruelling, challenging, fun, well-marshalled and with great food at the end".

Following the success of this year’s event, Simon Whittle and his wife Judith Chubb Whittle have announced the marathon will be returning on Saturday January 30th next year.

Apart from a modest increase in the number of solo runners, the format, route and refreshments will stay the same. The previous event raised more than £600 for the Pensford, Publow and the Stanton's Community Trust, which will also benefit from next year’s event.

The marathon consists of three very different loops, each with its own unique challenge, starting and finishing at Stanton Drew village hall.

With several months to go before the big day, there’s plenty of time to train for the full marathon or to assemble a team for the shorter but still challenging relay.

Complete 10K any way you like!

Details: www.stonecircles.org.uk Potential race marshals should contact Phil Townshend 01761 490958 or email phil@philtownshend.co.uk

Patrick’s record

PATRICK Knight from Peasedown St. John has set a new record for playing croquet at Camerton and Peasedown Croquet Club – a staggering 30 hours!

He was ably supported by a continuous stream of club members who joined in, as well as players from other clubs, including Nailsea.

He not only beat last year’s record, but gained funding for the club to support future developments.

Details: Mo Boys 01225 708540 or Ros Key Pugh 01225 427525.

PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

The start of last year’s inaugural event

Ben Crutchley, who lost his life to cancer

THE second Mells 10k event will take place on Saturday, October 10th and entrants can decide whether they want to walk, run or even cycle the distance.

Organisers say the most important thing is that people raise money for the CLIC Sargent children’s charity.

The Mells 10k is held in memory of Ben Crutchley and was the idea of his parents Nige and Su. This year people can register for a charity place for £11.25 and raise £100 or as an affiliated runner for £27.25.

Su said: “We are hoping to attract some local club runners after comments last year!”

To register, visit: www.mells10k.com

Make a date for thrills and spills

DATES have been agreed for the “Cases” Somerset Rebels speedway team’s Knockout Cup Final against Edinburgh and also their Play-Off semi-final versus the winners of the quarter-final tie – Knock-out result: Somerset skipper Josh either Plymouth or Grajczonek and Brady Kurtz head the Rye Glasgow.

House duo of Edward Kennett and Nikolaj The first leg of the Busk Jakobsen on the team’s way to victory KO final will be at in the semi-final of the KO Cup the Rebels’ Oaktree Arena on Tuesday, September 29th with the return leg in Edinburgh on Friday, October 2nd.

Somerset’s home leg of the Play-Off semi-final against either Plymouth or Glasgow will be at the Oaktree on Friday, October 9th. The second leg will either be on Saturday, October 10th if it is against Plymouth or Sunday, October 11th if Glasgow are the opposition.

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SPORT

Cricket . . . Priddy-style!

THE “wicket” had been cut but had never seen a roller, hitting the hurdles meant scoring a “four” and the ball was made of rubber to avoid damage to any cars … welcome to the annual Priddy Cricket Club versus The Cavers match.

Priddy CC visit other clubs to play friendly midweek 20 over games during the summer when most of the cavers are happily underground. But the two teams come together for the one game of the year to be staged on Priddy village green, bestknown for the annual folk festival and the now-defunct sheep fair.

Barrels of beer and cider and a barbecue welcomed players and spectators with tea and cakes between the innings.

Paul Toseland in action for Priddy

The teams join forces for the photocall. The Cavers were short of players so some of Priddy’s made up the numbers

Priddy’s Dan Gatton scores a boundary

The Cavers took early wickets, even if some of their bowling was unorthodox

Swimmers lead the way

TEENAGE Mendip-based swimmers Brodie Williams and Beth Newton, both sponsored by local sports funding charity TS5C, were joint captains for the England South team at the recent Sainsbury’s 2015 School Games.

Held at the Manchester Aquatics Centre, the multi-sport event brings together the UK’s elite young athletes of school age in eight regional teams. England South finished the weekend in second place.

Both Millfield School swimmer Brodie and Beth, a member of Street Swimming Club, put in strong performances over the weekend. Brodie said: “The season has only just started and after the long summer break the team knew that the swimming would be tough.”

Amongst his haul of medals were gold in the 100m and 200m backstroke and in the 4x100m medley relay. Beth won gold in the girls’ 200m freestyle. Beth said: “I’ve got short course nationals in December but my main aim for this year

Brodie in action in Manchester

is that at the British Championships I want to qualify for the European Juniors.”

Alan Gloak, Chairman of TS5C said: “What a tremendous boost for Brodie and Beth, for TS5C and for Somerset. To just be invited to participate in the games is a real achievement, never mind being selected to captain a team that covers such a large area of the country. It’s a real testament to the passion and commitment that these young athletes put into their sport.”

For more information on TS5C, visit www.ts5c.org or email info@ts5c.org

MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 105

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MENDIP TIMES

The club that wants to have fun This month we are delighted to welcome Rachel Thompson MBE as a new columnist for Mendip Times. Many readers will be familiar with Rachel through her work with landowners on the voluntary dedication of bridleways which led to her being awarded the MBE in 2013.

HORSE riders and owners will be thrilled to learn of the launch of a new riding club based at Downhead on east Mendip.

Although owning or caring for a horse or pony is a rewarding hobby it can be isolating and frustrating too, especially if there are issues that need resolving! Often riders need support, new ideas and company, especially if the only option is to hack out along rather dangerous roads.

One sunny afternoon I trotted down to a well-known local country store (Tincknells in Wells) to meet the East Mendip Riding Club’s new chairman Sam Moody. Blonde, bubbly and fun this new venture would seem to be a natural progression of Sam’s daily over-the-counter advice and support (and sometimes condolences!) that we riders have come to rely on.

Mendip and Mendip Times, in particular, thrive on interesting

Leah rides to success

A HORSE rider from Chilcompton, who has been show jumping for less than a year, has gained second place in a prestigious competition.

Leah Bowhay, who trains at Hay Street riding stables at Ston Easton, was riding Jake, an eight-year-old rescued Appaloosa gelding, in the 80cm club class at the British Show Jumping Championships at Stoneleigh.

Leah and Jake qualified for the event by winning sufficient points at club competitions at Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre.

Leah is currently studying in Bournemouth for a degree in physiotherapy.

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Sam Moody, Pat Bishop from Divoky, Jo Rossier, Liz Bardon and Arthur Stevens

people, so first I wanted to know a little about Sam. Born in Sussex, she tells me she arrived on Mendip in 2003 leading her horses and clutching a menagerie of dogs, cats, and daughter Amy, having fallen for her partner James (Saint James she jokes) through a shared interest in Landrover 4 x 4s. Once a keen racehorse owner, she now has two horses – Sparkey, the Welsh cob, and thoroughbred Friars Oak. She enjoys country pursuits and competing, her favourite ride is from Downhead around Cranmore Tower and back through Leighon-Mendip. Hot tip for riders? Buy the best riding boots you can afford – they really do improve your riding!

Over tea and sticky carrot cake Sam explained that the club’s aim is to ensure that all members enjoy safe non-competitive fun.

Already planned are an adult Salisbury Plain fringe camp (hmm more BBQ and wine than riding Sam?!), show-jumping, flatwork/ groundwork and educational clinics, accompanied hacking and fun nights out which might be only vaguely to do with horses!

An events diary will be produced but the committee is very keen to hear members’ event ideas. The club is affiliated to the British Riding Club Association and is being supported by Arthur Stevens (area 12) who attended the launch at the Divoky Riding Centre.

Sam and her fellow committee members – Jo Rossiter and Liz Bardon – have already attracted 28 members, great offers of suitable venues (including indoor and outdoor schools and a cross country course) plus the support of local vets and companies.

G To join contact the secretary Jo on tel 07874295077 / email eastmendipridingclub@gmail.com or download the membership form from www.eastmendiprc.com Per annum rates are: individual £22, family £40 plus associate non-riding members £15. Hurry and get a couple of months free.

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Charlotte shoots for the stars! Pony riders challenge for top honours

LOCAL rider, Charlotte East, from Othery in Somerset, has had the opportunity of a lifetime. She was selected for the Great Britain Junior Eventing Team, and competed at the European Championships in Poland this summer, with her mare Clear Dawn, coming back with a bronze team medal.

Charlotte, 17, has just finished studying at Millfield School in Street where she has been a day pupil since she was four.

Charlotte’s parents, Gordon and Sally East, have also supported her every step of the way, and are always acting as grooms and driving her around the country at all hours of the day and night. Sally is well known in the area as ex DC of the local Polden Hills Pony Club, and organiser of several local horse events.

Charlotte said: “I am now riding full time as a career, and after Poland I now really need to focus on the future. My plan is to buy a couple of young horses to produce to run alongside my two more experienced horses.”

Riders support cancer charities

OVER 200 people headed down to the Willberry Barn Bash, hosted by Christine York at Rectory Farm, Shoscombe to help raise money for local girl Hannah Francis.

Hannah is a talented young event rider who lives at Hemington. On May 1st she received the devastating news that she had Osteosarcoma which is a cancer of the bone, which is a very painful cancer.

She has since been undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy as part of her treatment with a cuddly soft toy horse, Willberry Wonder Pony by her side. Willberry was given to Hannah to help her through her journey by her show jumping coach.

Hannah started an Instagram account with the aid of Willberry

RIDING

(left to right): Roberta, Mia, Millie and Katie

THE Wylye Valley Pony Club junior girls’ tetrathlon team is celebrating after finishing second in the sport’s national championships in Yorkshire.

The girls – Mia Ralph, 14, Roberta Cameron-Rossiter, 12, Katie Duffy, 14 and Millie Toulson-Clarke, 13 – have been competing for just over a year, finishing seventh in their debut at the championships last year.

The four disciplines are swimming, a 1500m run, .177 air pistol target shooting and cross country riding. The club is keen to encourage new members for their strong tetrathlon section which trains weekly in Nunney. Contact details for the team manager can be found on the Wylye Valley pony club web site: www. branches.pcuk.org/wylyevalley

to keep her friends up to date with her journey. They now have over 18,000 followers and can be followed through her website www.willberrywonderpony.com or on Instagram @chiefchemopony. During the evening auctioneer Henry Brice, auctioned 30 lots and the event raised £14,317 for cancer charities chosen by Hannah.

Her friend and neighbour, Charlotte Campbell, who organised the event, said: “I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who donated, attended, bought raffle tickets and supported the event in some way, which helped to raise this astonishing amount Auctioneer Henry Brice and Charlotte of money.”

Campbell

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MENDIP TIMES

Under starter’s orders THE jump season gets underway at Wincanton Racecourse on Friday, October 16th with 16 fixtures on the cards running until May next year.

The opening meeting has been billed “Under Starter’s Orders” and will begin with a parade of some equine superstars and in-depth interviews with many of the West Country’s leading trainers who will offer yard updates and highlight horses to follow.

On Sunday, October 25th, Wincanton will host the Southern Spinal Injuries Trust Charity Raceday. The charity, based in Salisbury, provides services to patients with spinal cord injury and their families across the south of England.

The Annual Horse Drawn Ploughing Match Sunday 25th October (Gates Open @ 10am) Red Wood Farm, Barrow Gurney, North Somerset, BS38 3RE (off the A370)

Admission £5 for adults, Children are free.

Refreshments will be available during the day There will be an Explanation of the art and discipline of ploughing.

A MUST FOR THE HEAVY HORSE ENTHUSIAST For further information or queries Contact Sue Priggen on Tel: 01404 851028

There are two high-profile fixtures between now and Christmas. The Badger Ales Trophy, which is always a target of many top trainers, takes place on Saturday, November 7th. And the Boxing Day meeting is a popular social event which regularly attracts more than 10,000 racegoers.

Commentator and jockey Luke Harvey interviews Ditcheat trainer Paul Nicholls at the corresponding opening fixture last year

For details of Wincanton’s 2015/16 season, visit: www.wincantonracecourse. co.uk or follow @WincantonRaces on twitter

RIDING

Driving group’s new recruit

THE latest addition to the Somerset Levels RDA Carriage Driving Group has completed his training and is now fully qualified.

Hamish, a big grey pony, has passed his assessment by the RDA (Riding for the Disabled) to become fully operational at the group's twice-weekly sessions to provide carriage-driving for disabled drivers.

The Somerset Levels group bought Hamish to replace their former "big pony" to pull an especially adapted carriage that can be driven by their heavier wheel-chairbound clients – and can be used to provide carriage-drives at fund-raising events.

The group's chair, Yolanda Hansford, said: "Hamish has been magnificent. He's had to adapt to being looked after by a band of volunteers and learn all the strict rules of being an RDA assessed pony.

"He's taken to that new role like a duck to water, and we've all fallen in love with him."

The timing of Hamish's qualification could not have been more timely for the group. Beryl, their New Forest pony that has served them for 17 years, had to go into semiretirement after suffering a leg injury.

Yolanda said: "We were only able to buy and train Hamish with the backing of our donors, sponsors and volunteers. We are a stand-alone charity, and it costs a lot of money to maintain our three owned ponies throughout the year – spanning their livery, feed, and bills for vets and farriers. We badly need to recruit more volunteers and attract more funding."

Details: www.somersetlevelsrda.or

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Third year for Yeovil Literary Festival

WHAT’S ON

Farmer and Countryfile presenter Adam Henson will be among the big names appearing at this year’s Yeovil Literary Festival

THE word is out that this year’s Yeovil Literary Festival is going to be the best so far.

It takes place from Wednesday, October 28th to Sunday, November 1st and what a line up this year’s festival boasts! They have return visits from firm favourites Paddy Ashdown, Michael Morpurgo and Margaret Graham as well as a range of events from some recognisable faces such as Professor Robert Winston, Tracy Beaker creator Jacqueline Wilson and BBC Countryfile’s Adam Henson.

Some huge literary names join the festival for talks on a range of subjects, from grief to linguistics and more, and this year’s comedy events look to be some of the most exciting in the festival’s three years – including visits from Never Mind the Buzzcocks’ Phill Jupitus and comedian Lucy Porter.

The Yeovil Literary Festival is a partnership between The Yeovil Community Arts Association, Waterstones Yeovil, Yeovil Library and The Octagon Theatre (part of South Somerset District Council). The festival is proudly sponsored by The Manor Hotel and the Western Gazette and this year’s charitable partners are Amnesty International UK. Look out for #YLF2015 Discover Events which people can attend for free when purchasing a ticket to any other Yeovil Literary Festival 2015 event. The festival looks set to be another fantastic few days of inspiring talks from top-class thinkers, broadcasters and writers. Tickets now available at: www.yeovilliteraryfestival.co.uk

Get ready for reindeer

THE ninth annual Wells Rotary Reindeer Parade will take place in the Market Place and High Street in the city starting at noon on Sunday, December 6th.

There will be Santa Claus in a sledge drawn by real reindeer, bands, choirs, rides and stalls selling food drink and seasonal gifts.

For details, visit: ww.wellsrotaryclub.org or wellsreindeerparade.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015 • PAGE 109

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A good time for all

A LITERARY lunch at the Wells Festival of Literature is a unique experience.

A delicious lunch in the company of a distinguished author in the splendour of the Vicars’ Hall, followed by a short walk to the glorious gardens of the Bishop’s Palace for the talk, which starts at 1.30pm in the Festival Mary Berry will be speaking the marquee. festival on Saturday, October Literary lunches take 17th place every weekday of the festival but if you prefer an evening event, they have those in plenty too. The festival gets going on Friday, October 9th with a fiction evening (6pm Nordic crimewriter Arne Dahl; 8pm best-seller Jeffrey Archer).

There’s fascinating insight into the 100 Years War by eminent barrister Jonathan Sumption on Saturday evening, then Three Folktales performed by Peter Oswald on Sunday. The following weekdays also see some exciting evening performers, with Viv Groskopf rounding off the Festival on Lunch with A N Wilson? He’ll be Saturday, October 17th speaking on Friday, October with her hilarious show 16th Say Sorry to the Lady.

Mary Berry, fittingly, ends the teatime slots on Saturday after a week of brilliant afternoons covering subjects that range from trees to artists, from politicians to lizards, from women’s rights to designer handbags.

Whatever your interests, WFL has time for you…

More railway memories

IT may be several months away, but the 50th anniversary of the closure of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway next March looks like it will be celebrated in style.

There will be a day of events, Remembering the Railway, in Evercreech Village Hall on March 5th organised by Wells Railway Fraternity, the S&D Railway Trust and Evercreech and District Local History Society.

Details: Andrew Tucker 01749 830695 andrewctucker@btinternet.com

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In our feature Fifty years since the closure of the S & D last month one of the photographs was wrongly caption Evercreech Junction instead of Binegar Station. Thank you to all those who pointed it out.

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Volunteers welcome

WHAT’S ON

THE Bishop’s Palace in Wells is inviting people to join their friendly volunteer team from just a few hours a month to fulltime internships. Whether you want to gain experience in the heritage sector, be part of a friendly team, or learn new skills, there is something for everyone.

Siobhan Goodwin, volunteer co-ordinator at the palace, said: “The enthusiasm, dedication and knowledge of our team is inspiring. We also have plenty of fun, including a mini croquet tournament and barbecue last week.”

Email siobhan.goodwin@bishopspalace.org

Centenary celebrations

A contribution from Radstcock WI

AN exhibition marking the centenary of the Women’s Institute has opened at Radstock Museum.

Displays include historical artefacts belonging to local WI branches as well as photographs and anecdotes trading the development of the movement. The exhibition runs until Saturday, November 29th.

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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.

Wednesday September 30th Mendip Ploughing Match, Stanton Wick Farm, near Pensford.

Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support Backwell W.I. Hall from 2pm. Details: Sheila at 01275 462107. Thursday October 1st Cheddar Valley U3A SS Great Britain: from launch to relaunch, a presentation by Ian Caskie at Church House, Cheddar at 2.15pm, entry £2, visitors welcome.

West Mendip Walkers moderate linear walk of 10.8mi/17.3km from Samford Brett to West Bagborough. ExOL9 ST090401, start 10am. Details: Tony Strange 01934 733783 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Friday October 2nd Open Mic Night at Redhill Village Club, 8pm, hosted by Jerry Blythe, feel free to join in and meet other local musicians, all welcome, Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Saturday October 3rd Mendip Rocks! Festival launch Somerset Earth Science Centre, Moons Hill Quarry, Stoke St. Michael, 11am – 3pm, start of a month of events exploring Mendip’s geology. Details: www.somersetwildlife.org/rocks Churchill Music presents Aquinas Piano Trio: Ruth Rogers, violin; Katherine Jenkinson, cello; Martin Cousin, piano, with works by Mendelssohn, Mozart & Brahms, 7.30pm – 9.45pm, St. John’s Church, Churchill. BS25 5QW. Tickets £14.50; Champions of Churchill Music! £10.50; under 18s £4 available from: Ursula Dornton 01934 852919, Jan Murray 01934 852245 or info@churchillmusic.org.uk Camerton Hall Craft Fair 10am–1pm in aid of Children’s Hospice SW good range of crafts available plus cake stall and refreshments.

Wells Golf Club dance in aid of the MS Society (Mendip), with the ten-piece band Midrod Ends plus friends, 7.30 – 11.30pm, £15 which includes a finger buffet, bar and raffle. Details: The George Inn, Croscombe 01749 342306, Wells Golf Club 01749 675006, Wells Brian Duffell 01749 675275, Glastonbury John Hill 07958 448715, Street Jane Shakespeare 07881 474666.

Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band 35th anniversary concert, Midsomer Norton Methodist Church, 7.30pm, £7.50. Details: hello@msnrsb.org.uk Mendip Society Walk around Stratton-on-the-Fosse, meet at 2pm at the Kings Arms, South Street, Stratton-on-the-Fosse (BA3 4RA). A walk of about 6.5 miles, taking in Nettlebridge and Harridge Woods before returning to Stratton. Details: Bob 01934 820575.

Saturday October 3rd – Sunday October 18th Somerset Arts Weeks, 350 artists at 100 venues.

Details: www.somersetartworks.org.uk/artweeks15 Sunday October 4th Redhill Classic Car and Motorcycle breakfast gathering, on the recreation field, 9am – 12noon, full English breakfast, tea and coffee, bar open, Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Dundry Church Tower OPEN 2 – 4pm, adults £2, children 8 – 16 £1, refreshments – don’t forget your PAGE 112 • MENDIP TIMES • OCTOBER 2015

T i m e s

binoculars. Details: Jane – 0117 9642245.

Yeo Valley YEOpen Day, 11am – 5pm, at their HQ and organic garden, Blagdon, demos, tasting, brunch, lunch & afternoon tea, £1. Details: 01761 461425 or email events@yeovalley.co.uk Harvest Festival All Saints’ Church, Lullington, 11am. The church dates back to the 14th century and sits on a moated island on the Orchardleigh estate. It has no electricity, all services are illuminated by candlelight and the organ is pumped by hand.

Details: David King, director of music: 01225 710127 mobile: 07802 714053 email: dhkmusic@dking.me.uk Thursday October 8th West Mendip Walkers leisurely circular walk of 5.25mi/8.4km from Portishead. Ex154 ST458764.

Start 1pm. Park in free public carpark by Windmill Inn, Nore Road. Details: Tony Strange 01934 733783 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Friday October 9th – Sunday October 11th Flower Festival St. Mary’s Church, Timsbury, courtesy of Farmborough Floral Group, preview Thursday (ticket only), open Friday and Saturday 10am-5pm for teas and light lunches, with evening entertainment at 7pm, and on Sunday 2pm-5pm for teas. Details: timsburyflowerfestival@gmail.com or go to http://stmarystimsbury/org.uk/ Friday October 9th Batcombe and District Royal British Legion annual lecture with Lt. Gen. Sir Robert Fry KCB, CBE, Batcombe village hall, 6pm, £10 inc a glass of wine. Details: Niall Warry at niall@warry.goplus.net or tel. 01749 838816.

Race Night Croscombe Village Hall, raising funds for Somerset Carriage Driving for the Disabled, 7pm, £10 inc a fish and chip supper. Details: marion.hodgson@outlook.co 07891 025189 or go to www.somersetlevelsrda.org Banwell Society of Archaeology how I became a 16th century kitchen maid with Kay Wych, Banwell Village Hall, 7.30pm.

Saturday October 10th A concert given by young brass pupils, featuring solo and ensemble items, at All Saints’ Church, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 2NL, 7.30pm, tickets £6 for adults, £3 for children on the door, proceeds to the Lions and the Charlie Derrick appeal. Details: Jude Forth on 01934 420697.

Mendip Society walk around Wellow, meet 2pm at the old Wellow Station car park (BA2 8QB). A walk of about 5 miles. Details: Martin 01761 462528.

Frome Society for Local Study and Frome Civic Society, Bishop Crispian Hollis on Mells in the 2nd WW, Assembly Rooms, 2.30pm.

Saturday October 10th and Sunday October 11th Chew Valley Arts Trail – see page 34.

Tuesday October 13th Weston-super-Mare Archaeological and Natural History Society, “Otters on my Doorstep” a talk by Gill Brown of YACWAG, 7.30 start, Victoria Methodist Church Hall, Station Road, Weston, BS23 1XU, visitors very welcome. Details: www.wanhs.org Mendip Decorative and Fine Arts Society, AD410 – The Year that shook Rome, a talk on the Goths conquest of Rome by Sam Moorhead, Bath & West Bar & Restaurant, B & W Show Ground Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN, 11am. Details www.mdfas.org.uk.

Guests welcome. Contact 01934 862435.

Clevedon Art Club, adventures in three dimensions, a talk by Dr Justine Hopkins, St. Mary’s Church Hall, Walton, 7.30pm.

Wednesday October 14th Nailsea and District Horticultural Society, roses

W h a t ’ s

with Ivor Mace, United Reformed Church Hall, Nailsea, 7.30pm.

Wells Civic Society tour of Wells Art Contemporary Art Exhibition, Wells and Mendip Museum, 7.30pm.

Thursday October 15th Wrington Vale Inner Wheel soup & pud, St James Hall, Winscombe BS25 1BA, soup & crusty bread, home-made pud, tea or coffee, £7, in aid of Inner Wheel charities, also stalls, jewellery, handbags and scarves, all proceeds to Canine Partners.

Cheddar Valley U3A meet and greet coffee morning at Church House, Cheddar, 10.30am to 12 noon, visitors welcome. Details: 01934 744241 or www.cheddarvalleyu3a.org.uk West Mendip Walkers leisurely circular walk of 8.6mi/13.9km around Westonbirt from Sherston.

Ex168 ST854860. Start 10am. Park near church.

Details: Tony Strange 01934 733783 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Friday October 16th The Trinity Singers annual quiz night at Burrington Village Hall, 7.30pm. Ticket price will include a light supper. Teams of six (but teams can be put together on the night if people want to come along but can’t make up a team of six). Advance booking recommended. Details: Margaret Avery 01934 852123 or visit www.trinitysingers.co.uk Saturday October 17th Mendip Society walk around Dinder, meet 2pm at the east end of Ash Lane, Wells (BA5 2LW). A fivemile walk to Steep Holm, Dinder & Dulcote.

Details: Brian 01749 672457.

Regil Charity Coffee Morning at Regil Village Hall, BS40 8BD, stalls include, Phoenix cards, gardening items, cakes, glassware, jewellery, hot pasties, with raffle, tombola, 10am – 12midday, all profits to be shared between Bristol Oncology and Penny Brohn Centre. Details: Gwyn Riches 01275 472705/ Pat George 01275 472077.

Brue Boys Choir Concert, two course supper, bar, Batcombe Village Hall, 6.30pm, £20. Details: A. Biddle 01749 850 307.

A Fashion Show and Pop Up Shop by Colours in Wrington Memorial Hall, 7.30pm, organised by Wrington WI in aid of the Children’s Hospice South West, tickets £7.50 to include a glass of wine.

Details: Jean Durston 01934 863367.

Book sale and freecycle event in aid of Winscombe Community Association, 9am-12.30pm, refreshments available. Please leave donations of books, CDs, DVDs and jigsaws on the book trolley in the Community Centre, Sandford Road at the Thursday market. Details: 01934 823609 or 842250.

Sunday October 18th Redhill Club French-style boules competition, starting at 2pm with £25 prize money up for grabs for the winning team, it's FREE to enter, so come along and have a go! Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG. Tel: 01934 862619.

Redhill Country and Western Evening in the hall, starting at 8pm with “The McCoys” duo performing various hits including Johnny Cash, Willy Nelson and more, £6 per person on the door with free overnight camping on the recreation field if required.

Details: Den on 07798 698195. Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG. Bishop’s Palace, Wells Catherine Greenwell Vocal Quartet 12 – 1pm. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111 ext 200.

Monday October 19th Knitting Master Class – Cast On, Cast Off, Yeo Valley Organic Garden café, 10am – 4pm, materials supplied, includes morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea & cake, £65. Details: Pre-book online; call 01761

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461425; or email events@yeovalley.co.uk The Axbridge Workhouse, talk by Pat Hase, Old School Room, Stone Allerton, 7.30pm, organised by Axbridge Archaeological and Local History Society and Allerton History Society. Details: David Roberts 01934 712895, email dandmrob@tiscali.co.uk or Robin Goodfellow 01934 732874, email goodfellow7@btinternet.com Timsbury Natural History Group, talk by Andrew Daw on dragonflies, Conygre Hall, Timsbury, 7.30pm, £3, visitors welcome. Details: Martin Hunt, secretary 01761 433234.

Tuesday October 20th Antique Antics, Friends of Axbridge Church invite you to an evening with Toby Pinn, Clevedon Salerooms, to have an item valued, tickets £10, numbers limited, or £6 just to enjoy the evening, bar available, 7pm Axbridge Church. Details: Penny Cooke 01934 733304.

The Golden Age of Venetian Glass, NADFAS illustrated lectures, Caryford Hall, Castle Cary, BA7 7JJ, 11am, free parking, £6. Details: 01963 350 527.

Wednesday October 21st An Evening With David Hieatt, entrepreneur, Yeo Valley HQ canteen, 7.30pm, £35. Details: Pre-book online; call 01761 461425; or email events@yeovalley.co.uk Thursday October 22nd Chew Valley Wildlife Group: Gardening for Wildlife by Sally Lister in Chew Magna Millennium Hall, 7.45pm, admission £2.50; season ticket available. Create a beautiful garden full of colour and year-round interest that can also support wildlife.

West Mendip Walkers, moderate circular walk of 6mi/9.7km from Stratton-on-the-Fosse. Ex142 ST658510. Start 1pm. Park at village hall. Details: Tony Strange 01934 733783 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Body and Soul – An evening about men’s health – physical and spiritual. For men only. Winscombe Church Hall BS25 1BA. 7.30pm Free Admission.

Details: William Du Croz 07960 697874 Saturday October 24th Mendip Society walk from Paulton, part of the Mendip Rocks festival, meet 2pm in the High Street car park, 4.5 miles includes Rugbourne Farm, the Mearns Coal Pit, and the Paulton and Timsbury Basins at the end of the Somerset Coal Canal.

Details: Roger 07977 593566.

Frome Society for Local Study and Frome Civic Society Ceri Lambdin, director of the St. Algar’s Roman villa project at West Woodlands, Assembly Rooms, 2.30pm.

Monday October 26th Bishop’s Palace, Wells Community Garden activites, preparing the garden for winter, 11am-3pm. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111 ext 200.

Tuesday October 27th Table of Delights, live and unplugged, Bristol-based Theatre Damfino, Yeo Valley HQ canteen, 5.30pm, a participatory picnic for children 5-12ish, £12 per child to include one adult. Details: Pre-book online; call 01761 461425; or email events@yeovalley.co.uk Wednesday October 28th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support, Backwell W.I. Hall, 2pm, how to use defibrillator. Details: Sheila 01275 462107.

Bishop’s Palace, Wells final Family Activity Day of 2015 in the Stable Yard Room. Children will be able to choose from a range of wonderful craft projects including making leaf creatures, conker craft and jar lanterns, 11am-3pm. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111 ext 200.

Thursday October 29th

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West Mendip Walkers moderate circular walk 11mi/17.7km from Cheddar Reservoir. Ex141 ST439543. Start 10am. Park north carpark (Cheddar Road, Axbridge). Details: Tony Strange 01934 733783 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Friday 30th October Levens Choir Concert perform Purcell’s ‘Dido and Aeneas’ and other works.

St James Church, Winscombe, BS25 1BX. 7.30pm.

Tickets £7 available from Parish Office, Post Office and on the door. Details: William Du Croz 07960 697874 Saturday October 31st and Sunday November 1st 25th Mendip Christmas Fair, Aldwick Court Farm, over 40 stalls, raising funds for Bristol Children’s Hospital and Children’s Hospice South West, 10am5.30pm Saturday, 10am-3.30pm Sunday, children under-16 free. Details: www.mendipchristmasfair.org Saturday October 31st Shipham Village Hall Halloween fun for charity, 8pm-midnight, with hog roast, bar, tuck shop, pumpkin carving and disco – over 18s only. Tickets £8 or £5 without food. Details: mel@mediafly.co.uk 0777 6246866.

Cossington Village Hall, Bridgwater, Whiskey In The Jar, with Sean Cannon and his sons, supporting Bridgwater Hospital League of Friends, 8pm, £12.50.

Details: Roger Collett 01278 451187 or rogercollett.sounds@talktalk.net Mendip Society walk Farmborough, meet 1.30pm in the car park at the end of Church Lane (BA2 0AN).

A walk of about 5 miles across fields and through woodland. Details: Roger 01225 872777.

Wednesday November 4th Wrington Twinning Association French Connection wine and cheese festival, Aldwick Court, 7pm-9pm, £12 or £10 for members. Details: Anthony Hancock 01934 782462 or John Adams 07796 950346.

Friday November 6th – Sunday November 8th Bishop’s Palace, Wells craft fair a range of workshops, craft supplies, craft-based stalls and an array of stalls offering pre-made artisan gifts, all ready to inspire your Christmas shopping! Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111 ext 200.

Friday November 6th Redhill Club Open Mic Night hosted by Jerry Blythe, from 8pm, all budding musicians and performers are welcome, it's FREE to join and ample parking. Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Saturday November 7th The Trinity Singers evening of sacred music, 7.30pm, St Mary's Church, Yatton, to include Fauré’s Requiem and the Cantique de Jean Racine, Duruflé’s Four motets on Gregorian themes and other French sacred music including Charpentier, with Claire Alsop on organ, Musical Director Andrew Tyrrell, £10, under 18s free. Details: Margaret Avery 01934 852123 or visit www.trinitysingers.co.uk Mendip Society walk Burrington Combe, meet 1.30pm in the car park at the bottom of Burrington Combe, a walk of about four miles through Rickford, with steep hills. Details: Mary 01934 843789.

Frome Society for Local Study and Frome Civic Society Rowan Brown on the Clarks of Street, Assembly Rooms, 2.30pm.

Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society perform Bach – Lutheran Mass BWV 233 Cantata 140 ‘Wachet Auf’! and Brandenburg Concerto 1, Wells Cathedral, 7pm.

Details: www.wcos.org.uk or 01749672773.

Tuesday November 10th Mendip Decorative and Fine Arts Society Inessential Necessities in 18th Century England, by Naomi Motley, at Bath & West Bar & Restaurant, B

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& W Show Ground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN, 11am. Details www.mdfas.org.uk. Guests welcome.

Contact 01934 862435.

Wednesday November 11th Draycott Quilters exhibition and sale of handmade gifts, Oakland House, Wells Road, Draycott, 10am – 6.30pm in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, £3.50, inc tea and cake, light lunches available.

Friday November 13th Redhill Club Children in Need Charity Evening, starting at 8pm, live comedy cowboy band (www.texbraithwaiteandthebiryanibrothers.com) Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Don't Miss IT! Banwell Society of Archaeology local churches, with John Crockford-Hawley, Banwell Village Hall, 7.30pm.

Saturday November 14th Village Voices Community Choir and friends concert for Children In Need, Ston Easton village hall, 7pm, £7.50. Details: 01761 241617 vandg.hramsa@btconnect.com Fairtrade Fair and Fashion Show, Shipham Village Hall, 10am – 3.30pm, with Christmas willow workshop and variety of stalls, £5 per person, £10 per family. Details: http://shiphamfairtrade.myfree.website Mendip Society walk Priddy Nine Barrows, meet 1.30pm in Stockhill Woods car park on the Old Bristol Road (near to BA5 3AR), a five-mile walk via Priddy and the Nine Barrows with no major hills.

Details: Peter 01761 221995.

Tuesday November 17th Gold of the Gods, NADFAS illustrated lectures, Caryford Hall, Castle Cary, BA7 7JJ, 11am, free parking, £6. Details: 01963 350 527.

Saturday November 21st Redhill Club Quiz Night, starting at 8pm, suitable for teams with max.of six or individuals, £1 entry per person – winning team takes the prize money!

Refreshments available during the break. Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

Saturday November 28th Christmas Market, Cranmore Memorial Hall, 10am, all proceeds in Aid of Eady’s Jouney, local crafts, presents, cider, snacks, tea, coffee, raffle and lots more.

Sunday November 29th Redhill Christmas Fair – 12noon – 4pm, arts, crafts, beauty, toys, knitted items, etc. Anyone who would like a stall for £10 – contact Hazel on 01275 474973. Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG Tel: 01934 862619.

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Clock watching made fun

WEST COUNTRY CLOCK AND WATCH FAIRS will be holding their second fair at The Holiday Inn, Taunton, Somerset just off M5 Junction 25 on Sunday 1st November Admission: From – 9.00am – £3.00 Fair closes 2:30pm For further details please see: www.westcountryclockfairs.co.uk Tel: Owen 07804 816 724 or David 01278 691 264

THE Bristol Branch of the British Horological Institute will be holding its second West Country Watch & Clock Fair on Sunday November 1st.

Their first fair in April this year was a resounding success, with numerous stands displaying a wide variety of horological items ranging from top-end clocks and luxury watches to small parts and items of tooling etc.

Whether you are a professional or amateur, member of the public, or trader, or are just interested in clocks and watches or horology, make a note in your diary to join them on Sunday November 1st at the Holiday Inn, Taunton for what they expect to be another fun and friendly event.

Details: www.westcountryclockfairs.co.uk

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Christmas country shopping

THE Mendip Christmas Fair celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. It will be held at Aldwick Court Farm, on Saturday October 31st and Sunday November 1st.

There will be over 40 stalls, selling everything from pâtés to pink gin, jumpers to jewellery, gadgets, gifts and loads more, with many of the stallholders representing family businesses local to the South West.

The fair has been a much-loved and well-supported event for the last 25 years, raising money and awareness for the Guild of Friends of Bristol Royal Hospital for Children and Children's Hospice South West – last year it gave £6,000 to each charity.

There is ample free parking and access for all, with free entry for children under 16.

Details: www.mendipchristmasfair.org

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