Mendiptimes - Volume 9 Issue 1

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IN THIS ISSUE: SET FOR THE OLYMPICS • SUMMER EVENTS • MENDIP ROCKS! • GOLDEN AGE OF STEAM • WHAT’S ON • GOLF SUCCESSES

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IN THIS ISSUE: MENDIP’S LIVING HISTORY CARNIVAL’S UNDERWAY HELP FOR HARVEY HEALTH & FAMILY FESTIVE FOCUS WHAT’S ON

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IN THIS ISSUE: HEDGING CHAMPIONS • MENDIP BUSINESS • BLAGDON WALK • GARDENING • WILDLIFE • WHAT’S ON Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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IN THIS ISSUE: SHOW PREVIEWS • RUGBY SPECIAL • ARTS & ANTIQUES • POINT-TO-POINT • GARDENING Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

OUR EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE!

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

Welcome to our eighth anniversary issue!

As usual we’ve been inundated with material and advertising support – so we continue to add extra pages and to print extra copies – thanks for helping to make us Somerset’s most popular local magazine.

We are well and truly in to the show season – we’ve pictures of a memorable and very sunny North Somerset Show – and we will be distributing extra copies of the magazine at the Royal Bath and West show.

This month we offer you the chance to win tickets to the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day and preview festivals in Frome and Priddy, as well as Nunney International Horse Trials – our what’s on section continues to expand – we offer free space to charities and community groups.

We hear how beekeepers are striving to help the bee population and how Radstock’s redundant Victoria Hall is being turned in to an arts and community complex. In sport we’ve news of success in both rugby and soccer and meet the 17-year-old who has become Somerset ladies’ golf champion. We also have exclusive coverage of one of Mendip’s most iconic events – the Table Skittles finals!

With all of our usual features and contributors – thanks also to them for their support – we welcome you to this anniversary issue.

July 2013 deadline: Friday, 14th June 2013.

Published: Tuesday, 25th June 2013.

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

01761 463888 or: email news@mendiptimes.co.uk or: letters@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: Precision Colour Printing, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Copyright of editorial content held by Mendip Times Ltd. and its contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the Publisher. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the publisher or its associates.

Front cover: Cover montage by Steve Henderson

7

The plight of the bumblebee – keepers get buzzing

14

A sunny sizzler – the North Somerset Show in pictures

54

Flying high – youngsters flock to new skatepark

102

Season of success – local clubs celebrate

Plus all our regular features Environment...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE..........10 Arts & Antiques ...........................18 Internet and Crossword..............26 Food & Drink...............................28 Business ........................................40 Charities .......................................46 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......57 Walking Sue Gearing....................58 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........60

Gardening Mary Payne MBE ......62 Health Dr Phil Hammond.............70 Family Mendip Mum....................70 Community Simon Selby .............75 Caving Phil Hendy........................77 Property........................................82 Homes and Interiors....................86 Riding Celia Gadd ........................94 Golf................................................98 What’s On ..................................108 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 3

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MENDIP TIMES

A café to make you think

Wendy (left), Sherrie-jane and Hilary, one of the volunteers.

PERSONAL experiences of loved ones who suffer from memory loss are the inspiration behind a weekly café in a community centre.

The Forget-me-not Café was launched by Sherrie-jane Jackson and Wendy Allington, both members of the Rotary Club of Langport and Somerton, which supports the venture and is run with the help of a team of volunteers.

The café is open on Tuesday afternoons in the Angel in Langport, a former pub, and welcomes people who experience memory loss and those who care for them. There is a chance to chat over a cup of tea and cake and to play games and quizzes.

Each session ends with a sing-song around the piano.

Local health professionals also visit as well as the Alzheimer’s Society. People attend the café from a wide area; there is a similar café in Street. Sherrie-jane said: “We try to offer different activities each week.”

Sherrie-jane added: “Sadly, we are seeing more and more cases of early dementia; memory loss is not confined to older people.”

NEWS

Kilmersdon’s summer of fun

Children’s author Steve Voake after cutting the ribbon

THE first part of a new children’s play area in Kilmersdon has been officially opened promising a summer of fun – whatever the weather!

Children’s author Steve Voake, a former head teacher of the village school, was the guest of honour. Steve, of Westbury-sub-Mendip, cut the ribbon watched by dozens of youngsters, parents and villagers.

An auction of goods and promises, ranging from a £900 Mulberry handbag to bottles of wine and from car washes to ironing raised more than £2,200 towards the next phase of the play park, behind the village hall.

It has been announced that the project has been awarded £10,000 from the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards For All scheme.

Party time: Graham, a regular visitor to the cafe and Lynette, a volunteer, share a birthday

For more information about the Forget-me-not Café, call Sherrie-jane on: 07917202906 or Wendy on: 01458 251339.

To find out more about the Angel visit: www.langportangel.org.uk

Time to play: youngster enjoy the new equipment MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 5

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MENDIP TIMES

Bin plastic bags, say pupils

Forward together

Tessa Munt (front, centre) with members of the village plan committee

Pupils give the thumbs down to plastic bags

TEXTILES teacher Catherine Robertson turned to some environmental campaigners to provide inspiration for her students.

Catherine has been running a course in making canvas eco-bags which can be used time and time again and approached her local Transition Town group which has a copy of a film highlighting the pollution caused by disposable plastic bags.

Transition Langport bought a copy of Susan Beraza’s Bag It documentary to lend to interested schools as part of its ongoing campaign to reduce single use carrier bags in the town.

Catherine, who teaches at Huish Episcopi Academy, said: “The film makes a serious point in an entertaining way that connected the students’ work with the bigger picture. I’m pleased to report that the students are thinking more about what happens to their rubbish since seeing the film.”

Year 9 pupil Jess Mills, 13, from Charlton Mackrell, said: “The pollution in the oceans was horrible. We must not let plastic bags kill seabirds and turtles.”

Carenza Turner, 13, from Long Sutton, added: “The film made me aware of how much plastic we use everyday. We’re surrounded by it! If I could, I’d make plastic go away tomorrow.”

Catherine plans to continue showing Bag It to successive Year 9 students. She also intends to build the film into Year 10’s design technology curriculum: “In Year 10, we make a bag from recycled materials so I hope the film will strike a chord there, too.”

Norma Watkins, from Transition Langport, said: “Mrs Robertson is a beacon of hope. She is inspiring young people at a grassroots level to tackle a worldwide issue that effects us all.”

Last month, Transition Langport’s campaign to reduce single use plastic carrier bags in the town received a boost when a survey showed that more than 90 per cent of shoppers wanted a plastic bag-free town. A survey of Langport retailers is in the pipeline, with Transition hoping it can persuade most to offer customers cost effective alternatives to a plastic bag.

PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

CHILCOMPTON has its village plan – after more than two years of hard work including committee meetings, open days, surveys and fundraising events.

Around two-thirds of residents completed a village questionnaire which tackled issues ranging from speeding traffic to extra facilities for children.

The plan was launched at a tea party in the village hall to thank residents for their support. Parish plan chairman Caroline Husband said: “People have been so passionate about what is going on in Chilcompton.”

The launch was attended by Wells MP Tess Munt, who told villagers “The plan is about what you want and not what people think you want. It is an example to other villages as to what they can achieve.”

Village plans were the result of a rural white paper from the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs called Our Countryside – A Fair Deal for Rural England. One of the recommendations was that rural communities should have a say in their future through development of a village plan. The White Paper described the village plan as “an opportunity to develop community agreement on local priorities and options for discussing them”. And it added that a village plan should aim “to preserve valued and local features and to map out the facilities and services which the community needs to safeguard the future”.

Funding for the project came from grants and donations, including £3,500 from the Rackvernal Old School Hall charity, £500 from Chilcompton Celebrates and almost £2,000 from a gala evening.

To view the plan, called Chilcompton – Forward Together, visit: www.chilcomptonplan.co.uk

Bittern spotted

THE elusive bittern is active on the Ham Wall reserve on the Somerset Levels, south of Wedmore. This picture was taken by Leigh Lewis of Writhlington, who saw another three flying over the reed beds in mid-May.

Environment section:Layout 1

Save our bees

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THATCHERS Cider is hoping for plenty of bumblebee action in its orchards this year. As well as the bee hives that are to be found in the cider maker’s orchards for their resident honeybee population, they have also been working with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust to make their orchards even more “bumblebee friendly”.

Following the Trust’s advice, last autumn Sandford based Thatchers planted a special mix of wildflower seed over nine acres of orchard margin, which when in flower later this year, will provide ideal foraging for the bumblebees.

Martin Thatcher, fourth generation cider maker at Thatchers, said: “Until we met with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, we weren’t aware of the importance of wild pollinators, which include solitary bees and bumblebees, and how they can help us, particularly in poorer weather conditions, in pollination.

“It’s a win-win situation. We’re providing habitat for the bumblebees, and hopefully attracting some of the rarer species into our orchards, while they are helping us pollinate our trees and keeping a healthy supply of apples for our cider.”

Wildflowers – such as red clover, yellow rattle and bird’s-foot -trefoil are rich in nectar and pollen for the queen and worker bees. While they are busy foraging, the bees provide a vital pollination service for apple trees. In return, apple blossom provides early food, particularly important for queen bees coming out of hibernation over the coming weeks.

The trust has also been advising Thatchers on ways they can help protect nesting conditions for bumblebees in the orchard margins and hedgerows within its own orchard management programme.

Jo Chesworth, senior conservation

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ENVIRONMENT

officer from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust in the West of England said: “Bumblebees are extremely efficient pollinators, as pollen sticks to their furry bodies as they are busy foraging in the blossom. Bumblebees are larger and hairier than honeybees, which makes them perfectly suited to colder climates.

Their extra insulation allows them to venture out on colder days when the honeybees stay tucked up inside.

“However, their nests are small, and they do not store large quantities of honey, so they are more sensitive to the availability of pollen and nectar rich flowers to feed on.”

There are 24 species of bumblebee in the UK. Two species have become extinct in the last 80 years and others have declined dramatically due to habitat loss.

Somerset is home to one of the UK’s rarest bumblebees – the Shrill Carder bee – and as part of their work with Thatchers, the Bumblebee Conservation Trust will be surveying the orchards to see if the elusive Shrill Carder makes an appearance.

Bumblebees need a continual supply of pollen and nectar-rich flowers throughout their nesting season (March to late September). The blossom from the apple trees provides this, whilst later into summer, they use flowers in the grassland and orchard hedgerow.

The wildflower seed planted by Thatchers will support bumblebees throughout their lifecycle to ensure new queens are produced in late summer, needed to establish nests next year.

Thatchers has 400 acres of orchard in Somerset in which it grows apples for its locally-produced cider. This year it has planted 50,000 new apple trees to help meet the demand for its products.

Jo Chesworth (left) with Peter, James and Tony of Thatchers orchard team

Honeybees need beekeepers

SINCE the arrival of the deadly varroa mite in the British Isles, honeybees need the assistance of beekeepers to survive because beekeepers treat their bees annually to try to protect them.

Varroa originates from Asia, where Asian bees have developed some resistance to it. Varroa mites suck the blood of bees, weakening them and so allowing viruses to develop. The mites also lay eggs in the cells where the bee larvae are developing so the young bees can emerge deformed.

Wasps and bumble bees overwinter with one mated queen as they start each new year from scratch. A fully developed bumble bee colony can have around 200 bees. Honeybees come through the winter with approximately 10,000 bees then build up to 40,000 to 50,000.

There are three types of honeybees in a colony. Worker bees are underdeveloped females who do all the work of collecting nectar, pollen and water. Nectar provides their carbohydrate and pollen their protein.

Drones are big fat male bees; their only task in life is to mate with the queen. Drones are ejected from the colony in the autumn.

The queen is a large elongated bee that lays all the eggs. In mid-summer she can lay 1,500 eggs each day.

There’s usually one queen per colony.

Mendip beekeepers try to encourage people to take up beekeeping. There may be a beginners’ course in Jan-Feb 2014 depending upon the amount of interest shown. Non-members are welcome at outdoor demonstrations and indoor lectures. Anyone interested should contact Alan on 01761 417604.

Alan Weaver

If you want to know more about the work of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, visit www.bumblebeeconservation.org

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 7

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ENVIRONMENT

Have your say

M E N D I P

W E A T H E R

S C E N E

AN appeal has made to people in Wells to make sure they have their say on the future of one of the city’s most important green spaces.

Working in partnership with the Somerset Building Preservation Trust, Mendip District Council has commissioned an options appraisal for Wells Recreation Ground which will assess what could be done to improve the site and make it more attractive to local residents and visitors to Wells. Wells City Council has also contributed to the project.

Mendip says a commercially-viable option is being sought, which improves the range of facilities, increases public use of and access to the site, especially the Bishop’s Barn, and improves the setting of the barn.

Whatever the conclusions of the appraisal, Mendip says the recreation ground will stay as open space for recreational use by the local community, in line with the original aims and objectives of the Wells Recreation Ground Trust.

However, the Wells Recreation Ground Trust is keen that as many local people as possible have a chance to shape the future of the site. Mendip District Council is the sole trustee for the Wells Recreation Ground Trust and a new group was established earlier this year to define clear lines of communication and to emphasise that decisions being made about the trust are separate from that of the council.

Dire predictions?

Not from me!

IT’S that time of the year again! Right on cue, the headlines are appearing in all the papers giving the weather predictions for the coming summer season, as they do every year.

If you believe a recent edition of the Sun on Sunday, for one, it’s going to be a with DAVID washout for the Glastonbury Festival, MAINE Wimbledon and just about every major outdoor event. Mind you, the same thing happens in the late autumn with so-called “long range forecasts” for the coming winter – usually dire.

They all make for good headlines, but what is the truth behind the predictions and, more importantly, where do they come from? The Met Office’s forecasts for up to a week ahead are remarkably accurate nowadays – much more so than in my time – but beyond a week things tend to go downhill quite quickly. The Met Office has tried to produce “seasonal” forecasts for a month ahead but, as we all know, the accuracy is a lot less than six day forecasts.

You can see how true this is by looking at the various computer model forecasts for two or three weeks ahead on a

PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

The Bishop’s Barn – an open day on the future of the area will be held there this summer

Architects Benjamin and Beauchamp have started work on the options appraisal and begun initial consultations with local groups including Wells Civic Society and Better Play Areas for Wells, plus local schools and sports clubs.

The newly-formed group comprises Mendip District councillors Harvey Siggs, John Parham, Nigel Woollcombe-Adams, John North and Andy Denison. Chairman, John North, said: “The recreation ground is an important community space at the heart of the city and it’s essential that local people get involved with the consultation exercise and have their say on the future of this green space.

“As the options appraisal is developed, there will be opportunities for the local community to comment on proposals and let us have feedback on how they want to see the recreation ground improved.”

G People will be able to comment on the proposals by attending an open day at the Bishop’s Barn this summer. The exact date for this event has yet to be confirmed.

Whatever the weather, thousands will have a Glastonbury festival they'll never forget

number of websites and it is amazing how much they alter, sometimes just from one day to the next.

There are a lot of so-called meteorologists out there who are only too happy to give their predictions for the coming season, but no self-respecting professional meteorologist would do this.

As Mendip Times readers may know, I don’t do predictions so don’t ask, although I will say that if you go to the coast you may find the sea breezes a little more chilly than usual.

This is because we had a very cold late spring, and so sea surface temperatures are a couple of degrees or so below what they should be for this time of the year.

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

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

It is hard to believe that The Royal Bath and West Show is upon us. Once again we shall be sponsoring the “Power in the Past” section so whether or not you are a client of the firm, please feel free to drop in for a chat. The show runs from 29 May – 1 June 2013 inclusive.

We have a proud tradition of acting for large and small farming enterprises, often through several generations. Our clients range from small family-run farming enterprises to large-scale commercial farming businesses. By concentrating on building personal relationships over many years and often through the generations, we will gain understanding of our clients’ needs and priorities The show will be a welcome diversion from the hard work that we and our staff have been putting in over the past few months to secure the very prestigious Lexcel accreditation (see page 42).

It remains only to congratulate everyone at Mendip Times on the 8th anniversary of its first publication and to wish them every success for the future.

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

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Farmers enjoy a day out

WITH the weather a little better, animals are hopefully out from their winter quarters and farmers are pulling out all the stops to catch up with field work. Silage making has usually started by now (mid-May) but there is just not enough grass yet.

In North Somerset a special Rural Business With MARY Network was formed a couple of years ago JAMES MBE especially for farmers and those in rural businesses. Around four excellent meetings are held during the winter and there is invariably a farm visit, always well attended, because everyone likes to see what is going on over someone else’s hedge!

This year 55 members visited Noah’s Ark Farm at Wraxall by kind permission of Anthony and Christina Bush. Members were taken to see all the animals with commentary from Anthony and his team. It isn’t every day that you can be within one or two feet from a sleeping tiger, thank goodness for the large plate glass window!

You can, though, touch the rhino, quite safely. Taking a straw poll from amongst the visitors they were impressed with what they saw. All the animals are in excellent condition, they have plenty of space, outdoors and indoors, with excellent housing. New acquisitions this summer will be three elephants.

They have been allotted 20 acres and a huge building is being constructed, a building that is state of the art and probably the best in Europe costing around one and a half million pounds.

Everything for the comfort and welfare of all the animals at Noah’s Ark has been thought of and a well known local team of excellent vets provide care and advice.

Many schools visit – the educational value of this enterprise being enormous. The arable side of the farm continues and visitors can take tractor rides and get straightforward farming information as well. Well done Anthony and Christina for such an amazing enterprise.

Whilst on the subject of events/outings I must not forget North Somerset Show which this year, fortunately, was blessed with fine weather. It was a cracking day out. This time the members’ tent was facing the main ring so one could enjoy lunch in the tent and then sit outside in the sun to watch the ring events, one of the benefits of being a member.

To secretary, Tim Ledbury, chairman, Ed Simmons, and the large team of volunteers, well done. On July 10th schools are booking to visit the Countryside Day on the showground. More stewards are needed. If you would like to volunteer do ring Tim Ledbury 08456 342464.

Next is the 150th show of the Royal Bath and West, May 29th – June 1st. There are lots of special events to look forward to and a very special surprise. The show’s neighbour, Michael Eavis, is sponsoring an exciting main ring event each day. Come and join the fun.

Sheep attacks

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PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

POLICE are urging farmers to remain vigilant after sheep were attacked near Glastonbury on Tuesday, May 21st.

Two dogs entered enclosed grassland at Cradle Bridge on Back River Drove and chased a flock of ewes and lambs.

The sheep were chased towards the river Brue and several sheep jumped into the river and one drowned. Crews from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were able to save some others.

Subsequent examination of the flock by a vet revealed many had dog inflicted injuries and another ewe had to be destroyed. Dog owners are urged to keep their animals under control and away from sheep.

Anyone who sees incidents such as this is asked to contact the police on 101 or call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org

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FARMING

Farm sale attracts crowds

ONE of the biggest farm sales for years took place at Court Farm, Compton Martin, after Rich Curry and his family decided to give up dairy farming.

There were 620 lots in the sale, conducted by Richard Nancekivell of David James, including tractors, a sprayer, trailers and a state-of-the-art milking parlour, with bidders travelling from all parts of the country.

Rich’s father Edgar, who died three years ago, moved to the farm with his wife Peggy from Hill View Farm in Banwell 49 years ago. Rich has been running the business with his mother, brother, Philip and sister Pauline.

Rich said: “It’s a bit sad, but it’s time to move on. After doing this for seven days a week for so long, it’s time for a change.”

He’s now going to concentrate on his new venture, Big Rich’s Clock Tower Café, which he opened at the farm last August, while the 400-acre farm will see a change of farming policy.

The 400-strong herd has been sold to Alvis Brothers. The family’s Chew Valley Dairy, which has been supplying shops in the Chew Valley and into Bristol since 1988, has been taken on by Colston Gay, of New Manor Farm, and his son Thomas, who is now running it.

John is show’s big cheese

THE chairman of one of the country’s leading cheesemakers is the new president of the Frome Cheese Show. John Clothier, whose father Tom founded Wyke Farms, based near Bruton, succeeds Phil Cary and will hold the title for two years.

John said: “This is a great honour, especially as it comes at one of the most exciting times in the show’s history. It’s one of the most important events of its kind in the region and, of course, with the Cheese Section in particular rapidly gaining an international reputation through the Global Cheese Awards it’s doubly exciting for me.”

Show Secretary Brenda Scott said: “It’s great having John as President and we look forward to seeing him at the show which takes place at West Woodlands on Saturday, September 14th.”

G John has released a CD of country music songs from the 1960s and 70s to raise money for Save the Children. Chasing the Rainbow is available from the Wyke Farms shop in Wyke Champflower and online. It costs £3 and £1 from every sale goes to Save the Children.

Richard said: “We’d like to thank the customers of the Chew valley dairy for their support over the last twenty 25 years.” The new owners say they will maintain the same service.

John with a photo of himself taken when he was seven and setting off to help dad Tom milk the cows

.com

See us on stand 159 at the Royal Bath and West Show

REPAIRS • SPARES • NEW DOORS • ELECTRIC OPENERS

TEL: 01934 812999 or 01275 759011

Visit our showroom at: 149-151 Oldmixon Road, Hutton, Weston-super-Mare BS24 9QA MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 11

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The value of country shows AS the country show season gets underway, agricultural professionals are gearing up to meet clients at seminars, award presentations, and plentiful cream teas. But are such events really worthwhile? According to Old Mill accountants and financial planners, they are an invaluable opportunity for all involved.

Head of marketing, Alan Stone, said: “Country shows are an integral part of the rural calendar, where people go to do business, meet friends and colleagues, and hear about new products and services. It is as important for us to support these events as it is to meet our clients in a relaxed atmosphere and win valuable new business.”

He said that after the floods and gales of last year, the season got off to a good start at the North Somerset Show in early May, which hopefully bodes well for the rest of the summer. Next stop is the 150th Royal Bath & West Show where Old Mill will be sponsoring the Innovation Award for Farm Machinery.

That will be followed by the Royal Cornwall Show, and then a series of one-

PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW 2013

day shows throughout Devon, Dorset and Somerset, culminating with the Dairy Event back at the Bath & West Showground in October.

Alan said: “The agricultural emphasis of many country shows has altered over the years, but that doesn’t mean they are any less valuable to farmers and rural businesses. They are a wonderful

opportunity for farmers to exhibit the best of the best to their peers and the general public, helping to reconnect people with food, farming and the countryside. We are proud to be part of that.”

Locally Old Mill will be at the MidSomerset Show on August 18th, Frome Cheese Show on September 14th and the the Dairy Show on October 2nd.

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Helping hand at Badminton

GUY SALMON LAND ROVER BRISTOL

Pleased to meet you

THE crowds flocked to the North Somerset Show and Guy Salmon Bristol were there with their new display stand to show their full range of vehicles. Look out for them at the Royal Bath and West Show, the Mid-Somerset Show at Shepton Mallet, and at Frome Cheese Show.

WHEN the St. John Ambulance needed help with vehicles at the world-famous Badminton Horse Trials, Guy Salmon Bristol was happy to help, supplying not one but two vehicles. Since the brigade already uses Land Rover ambulances, they soon felt at home.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 13

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MENDIP TIMES

Sunshine after the rain Words and pictures

by Mark Adler

WHAT a difference a year can make – just ask the team behind the North Somerset Show!

After torrential rain last May, this year’s show was bathed in glorious sunshine bringing out huge crowds to enjoy the sights and sounds of the oneday event.

Show secretary Tim Ledbury said: “It was the most successful day at the Wraxall showground. Exhibitors, traders and public seemed to enjoy the day hugely. Thank you to the large number of volunteers who help.”

A shire horse enjoys the limelight

All mine!

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

The grand parade

Sunhats were the order of the day

Vintage tractors on their way to parade in the main arena

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NORTH SOMERSET SHOW

Just champion – the supreme champion was owned by Nick Hill, of Nyland

Simon Brooks, a past president of the show, outside the members’ pavilion Matthew Seward enjoyed success with Cracker Natal Mini

Best seat in the house – a border collie enjoys the action in the main arena MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 15

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MENDIP TIMES

Dear Mendip Times, Local Government cutbacks have resulted in many people no longer being able to receive our free volunteer service, which offers help with many day-to-day issues, including help with attending appointments, shopping and regular friendship and support.

Visually impaired people will now find it much harder to access this free service and many will no longer qualify for it at all. In order to reach everyone with a need for help, we are pleased to announce the launch of a private service for anyone who may be struggling to manage with reduced vision.

A volunteer can help with many things which visually impaired people may find difficult. They will be expected to contribute towards the cost of running the service but this can be much less than paying carers to help and this will be fully explained to anyone interested in taking advantage of this opportunity.

All income for our charity goes towards helping people with visual impairment in Somerset. I would be very happy to discuss what is on offer, so please do get in touch if this affects you, or someone you know.

Claire Packwood, Somerset Sight 01643 708382 claire.packwood@somersetsight.orguk Volunteer Co-ordinator

Dear Mendip Times, The Somerset Wildlife Trust is extremely grateful for the support that was given towards the Plant Sale and Open Garden held at Rookery House, the Causeway, Mark, on Saturday, May 4th. The magnificent and record sum of over £3000 was raised and all will be used in Somerset “Protecting Wildlife for the Future” – the motto of the Trust.

Thanks go to everyone who was able to help, either by providing plants, cakes and raffle prizes and by assisting in the organisation for the event and on the day and by coming to buy. Over 300 people attended and enjoyed the garden and refreshments in, on the day itself, good weather.

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

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

Sincerely, Norman Lees, Mark, Highbridge, Somerset Dear Mendip Times, Following the announcement by Bath and North East Somerset that dance will lead the way at the Victoria Hall, friends and supporters of Radstock Action Group’s Litter Pick were waltzing round the town with litter grabbers and bags.

Locations covered included Waterloo Road, the Miners Memorial Gardens, lower Frome Road, Victoria Hall, Tom Huyton Park and related pathways, Fortescue Road and The Street (all nooks and crannies included), Coombend, Church Street, Lower Bath Old Road, Colliers Rise and Tamblyn Close. The steps round the Wheel were given a thorough going over. Eventually, three hours’ work could be found awaiting collection in a pile of rubbish bags …

PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

LETTERS

The afore-mentioned B&NES announcement giving a hint of what may be in store for the Victoria Hall looks like good news. And it’s certainly exciting news that Sue Hill’s School of Dancing has central Radstock accommodation secured.

The school is one of the many activities which draw people into town, alongside visitors to the museum, cyclists and walkers and shoppers looking for a reliable and quirky selection of independent shops and services.

Radstock has a well-established and growing community of arts practitioners and enthusiasts and it sounds like the Victoria Hall will be encouraging even more, with dance leading the way. At last there will be facilities for meetings and other public events – in fact, many things that RAG and others have been calling for. Well done B&NES! But Radstock Action Group would like B&NES Leader Councillor (Paul) Crossley to give us a bit more information: Where can members of the public see the plans?

How the Hall will be run – who will decide what goes on there? How will the local community be able to get involved in its day-to-day activities?

What is the single member decision which is going to be made at the beginning of June?

What measures are being put in place to make the Hall sustainable in economic terms?

What is going to be done to compensate for the loss of the snooker facilities where young and old alike were able to get together for free and where there was no alcohol available, thus making it a suitable venue for the young members of the community who used it consistently?

Finally – a big round of applause for the litter pickers: thank you to everyone who turned out.

Amanda Leon, Secretary, on behalf of Radstock Action Group Dear Mendip Times, An appeal to your readers: do you enjoy walking with other people and do you have a couple of hours to spare each week? If so, Age UK B&NES would love to hear from you.

Volunteer leaders are needed for a series of new Wellbeing Walks planned across Bath and North East Somerset. The walks are being organised by Age UK B&NES in partnership with Sirona Care and Health.

The Wellbeing Walks will be open to all ages and will run from June 2013. Four walks are planned each week across the Bath, Keynsham, Radstock and Midsomer Norton areas and it is anticipated that two volunteer walk leaders will be needed for each walk.

Walk leaders need to be able to offer up to one or two hours of their time every week and need to be friendly and sociable. All Age UK B&NES volunteers receive a one day training course, reimbursement of travel costs, induction and support.

If anyone is interested in becoming a Wellbeing Walk Leader, contact Kate Tate, Acting Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 01225 466135 or emailvolunteering@ageukbanes.co.uk People interested in taking part in the new wellbeing walks are encouraged to get in touch with Sirona’s Healthy Lifestyle Service on 01225 831852 or email Healthylifestyleservice@sirona-cic.org.uk Yours, Paula Smith, Age UK B&NES

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NEWS

Dance hall days

RADSTOCK’S redundant Victoria Hall is in line for a £660,000 refurbishment to turn it into an arts and community complex.

The main user of the building will be the Sue Hill School of Dancing, based nearby, and its full-time performing arts course BDC (Bath Dance College) will operate from the premises along with other classes.

Work to bring the hall back into use is expected to start in the summer and be complete towards the end of the year, although part of the building should be open in September for the Dance School to operate.

The refurbishment programme includes studios and an arts theatre, community space, meeting rooms, exhibition area, and coffee bar, along with new electrics, lift, toilet facilities and boiler.

Sue Hill said: “We are committed to play a full part in making Victoria Hall the very best facility it can be for the whole community. The building will be much more than a dance school. Our commitment means developing the building to become an art centre where people can fulfil their potential or simply just enjoy their time with events like film evenings.”

The project has been led by Bath and

Let’s dance! Youngsters from the dance school join in the celebrations outside the Victoria Hall

North East Somerset Council which has been working with partners on plans to regenerate the town, including a new road layout to ease congestion.

Councillor Paul Crossley, leader of the council, said: “This is an exciting time for Radstock as Bath and North East Somerset Council and our partners move ahead with these two important regeneration projects that will benefit local people.

“The road network upgrade and new homes are urgently needed to breathe new life into the town. The submission of the outline planning application is the next step of our action plan to make these improvements a reality.

“This project must be complemented by community facilities, like Victoria Hall, which will provide vibrant activities and events for both present and future residents to take part in.”

More information about the regeneration of Radstock can be found at www.bathnes.gov.uk/regenradstock

Tributes paid to former headmaster

MORE than 250 guests attended a memorial service for Paul Ketterer, former headmaster of All Hallows Preparatory School from 1971-1995, who died just before Christmas last year.

Former pupils, parents, governors, friends and family were able to share many happy memories and experiences after the service at the school.

The service was conducted by Dom Alexander George, of Downside Abbey, who was a former chaplain of the school during Paul Ketterer’s headship. Father Alexander spoke of Paul’s humility, humour and holiness which encapsulated the essence of the man.

Paul Ketterer built up the school throughout the seventies, eighties and nineties, overseeing the introduction of co-education in 1972 and embarking

Paul Ketterer. His mission statement for the school reads: “The raison d’etre of the school is the integration of Christian principles with daily life”

upon an ambitious building and conversion programme which set the school amongst the best Catholic prep schools in the country.

Paul had spent a lifetime in professional education as a schoolmaster at St Edmund’s, Ware, and The Oratory School in Reading before moving to All Hallows and he remained, essentially, a loving family man who delighted in the love and support of his wife, Jean, and children Sonia, Sasha, Franz and Carl.

Paul Ketterer’s successor as headmaster, Chris Bird, and his successor, the present headmaster, Ian Murphy, were both delighted to be present at the service and have enjoyed maintaining the tradition of excellence at All Hallows Prep School.

Mandy Ley-Morgan, Development Director and PA to the headmaster MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 17

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Recycled riches

SINCE the increase in gold prices over the last few years, Wedmore jeweller, Erica Sharpe has seen a growing interest in commissions to recycle jewellery. As well as creating individually handcrafted jewellery from Fairtrade gold and ‘eco’ gold, silver and platinum, she also re-designs and re-models old pieces of jewellery using customers’ existing

gold and gemstones.

Erica said: “Bespoke designs are an ideal way of recycling precious materials, often with a family history, into something that that wearer really loves and gets joy from.

“There is a growing awareness of saving, recycling and accounting for things that we use in our lives. There’s no doubt that my customers are welcoming the choice to use some of the items that might otherwise be left in the back of a drawer and have them transformed into something beautiful and valued.”

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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Diamonds are forever THIS beautiful Art Deco sapphire and diamond bracelet sold for £4,000 at Tamlyns’ recent Antiques auction in Bridgwater.

Made in France it was unusual in that it was set in white gold rather than platinum, the sapphires were particularly fine and each rectangular cut stone had a deep cornflower blue colour – certainly there was considerable pre-sale interest, eventually selling to a trade bidder in the room.

Another particularly attractive jewellery item to do well was an Art Deco-style platinum and diamond ring.

Set with a central brilliant cut diamond of approx. 1.25cts flanked by baguette cut diamonds to each side, the stones were of good colour and clarity which make a considerable difference to the price and it sold for £3,000.

An Arts and Crafts silver pedestal bowl by Sybil Dunlop made £1,300; an unusual glass bowl decorated with two

Page 19

penguins by Anna Fogelberg for Thomas Webb £950; an 18ct gold pocket watch by Payne & Son £520; a Newlyn copper frame £240 and a collection of old indentures £600.

The saleroom is filling up fast with all sorts of interesting items for the next antiques sale on June 25th – particularly within the jewellery section. There will be a simply

ARTS AND ANTIQUES stunning diamond and ruby brooch estimated at £700-£800 that would definitely but a sparkle in its recipient’s eye and, as usual, plenty of unique gold and silver pieces to compliment your collection.

For admirers of the Victorian era, an opulent umbrella with carved 18ct gold handle is estimated at £100-£150 and a true piece of antique elegance.

For further information on our upcoming sales, contact the auction rooms on 01278 445251.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 19

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MENDIP TIMES

Art for all

MORE than 300 artists in nearly 100 venues took part in this year’s North Somerset Arts Week, providing a splendid showcase of what the area has to offer in arts, crafts and culture.

North Somerset artists have now been opening their studios and workshops since 2003 and the Arts Week has become a major event in the North Somerset calendar.

Details: www.northsomersetarts.org

Paintings by Clare Hooper, Lower Langford

( left to right) Suzanne Bowerman, Liz Greaves and Mo Taylor with some of their work at Blagdon Village Club.

Mosaics, Lizzie Tucker Long Ashton

Somerset Levels fabric collage by Anne Carpenter, Shipham

Ceramics by Kathleen and Brian Fowler, Long Ashton PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Chelvey Designer Makers Tom Carey (left), from Nailsea and Rohann Scadding from Bristol

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ARTS AND ANTIQUES

CLEVEDON Salerooms’ specialist sales attract bidders from around the globe. This mid-19th century Smith’s Terrestrial Globe boasts ‘The whole of the latest discoveries and geographical improvements and the tracks of the most celebrated circumnavigators’.

Global reach

Dated 1872 and standing 46cm this lot attracted wide interest and sold for £1,350.

To illustrate just how small the world has become the pair of Chinese folding hunting chairs illustrated in the main advert were fought over exclusively by two Chinesebased internet bidders who between them

took the bidding from the hundreds of pounds into the thousands of pounds.

If you would like your antiques and works art offered to the widest audience in order to achieve the highest possible price please contact the salerooms on 01934 830111.

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE ANTIQUE VALUATION DAYS 10 11 12 June 24 25 26 June 9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5.30pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary

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

Pair of Chinese hardwood folding hunting chairs

Sold for £4,250 Next Specialist Sale Thursday 12th September

(closing date for entries 14th August) MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 21

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MENDIP TIMES

Wells goes to town

LAST month saw the culmination of a year’s work when the committee of Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) went to the glitzy London venue, 45 Park Lane, for the private view of the winner of WAC 2012, Frances Borden.

Frances, from Devon won the prestigious first prize, The 45 Park Lane Art Prize, in the inaugural WAC competition held last October. Artists from all over the world entered online for the chance to win this prize of a lifetime.

Sponsored by the Dorchester Hotel Group, the exhibition was held in the foyer and library of this iconic London landmark.

Judges including Sir Peter Blake were on hand at the private view to celebrate with the winner and the committee.

The competition was set up by a group pf volunteers from the

What’s On at Somer Craft Addix in June 2013 7th: Card making, Clocks, Cogs and wheels 8th: card making, Christmas 2013 – No 2 12th: 8 card Summer Challenge 14th: Beading Project 21st: card making – Distress Inks and Highlighters 26th: card making – Stamping and Water Colours 28th: Clarity Stamp projects 29th: Open Day ‘Make Demo’s’ and ‘Make and Takes’

SOMER CRAFT ADDIX Craft Shop

For all your crafting needs!

Open -Tues-Sat 10-4

NEW IN CLARITY STAMP RANGE GELLI PLATES SPECIAL OFFER PROMARKERS £2.25 EACH 52 COLOURS Unit 6, Rookery Farm, Binegar, Radstock BA3 4UL

01749 840567 • 07791 843591

PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

www.somercraftaddix.co.uk

Wells district, whose aim is to bring top class contemporary art to Wells –as there are now no galleries remaining in Wells for showcasing aspiring artists from the area.

Committee members Paddy O’Hagan, Kate Noble, Michael Knight, Candace Bahouth, Mary Nielson, Solange Zamora, Debbie Kolombos, Peter Allen and Sheena Loveday all had a day to remember, captured in photographs by Ann Cook.

If you would like the chance to win this prestigious competition, WAC 2013 is now open for entries on www.wellsartcontemporary.co.uk Entries close on September 7th. The prize-winning entries and selected work will be on show at the Wells City Museum from Friday, October 11th until Sunday, October 20th.

The Clock Shop

Market Place, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7AL.

01963 359100

Antique Clocks Bought - Sold - Restored Open Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.30pm closed Monday and Wednesday

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

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

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Collectables in demand

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

MENDIP Auction Rooms’ May auction of antiques, fine art and collectables saw an entry of approximately 450 lots including furniture, pictures, ceramics, silver and a diverse and interesting range of collectables.

There was strong demand for various collectable items. A felt “Lenci” “Nini” doll received strong interest from within the room and telephone bidders and sold

for £550. Other notable items included a pair of blue and white ceramic garden seats (£840) and a Chinese bronze figure of an elephant and tigers that sold for £750.

A specialist Sporting Sale is scheduled for June 25th at 6pm and a good range of

entries have already been entered and they include a fine collection of fishing rods and reels including Hardy’s, Formula 1 signed memorabilia, and shotguns. Also entered are an early 19th century good Malaysian bronze Lantaka deck gun and large mounted boar head taxidermy.

The team are able to undertake free house visits or alternatively, the auction rooms are open from 10am–5pm Monday– Friday. Contact the auction rooms on 01749 840770 or log onto www.mendipauctionrooms.co.uk for more information.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 23

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MENDIP TIMES

Exceptional facilities at Cannington THE countryside location of the Bridgwater College Cannington Centre makes it a perfect choice for students interested in a land-based education. In recent years, over £10 million has been invested in improving the facilities, and the resources for land-based training are now considered to be among the most exceptional in the country, providing students with state-of-the-art surroundings for learning and practicing their skills.

With an estimated 250,000 new entrants required to enter the land-based sector by 2020, Bridgwater College offer a very varied curriculum which prepares students for roles to fill the various skills gaps, including, agriculture, animal care, landscaping, fisheries management and equine, to name a few.

The outstanding facilities at the college include a 400-hectare dairy farm, equestrian centre, animal management centre, nine-hole golf course and historic walled gardens dating back to the 1200s.

Students of all ages can learn at entry level right through to honours degree level, and teaching and learning methods are deliberately kept flexible so that studies can fit around home, work and family.

Excellent links with key players in the industry mean that students have regular

exposure to current practice and relevant work placements, which often result in exciting career opportunities. This, combined with a teaching and learning experience that has been graded outstanding by Ofsted, has assisted in the achievement of fantastic vocational results across all subjects in previous years.

For more information about land-based subjects at the Cannington Centre come to our Open Evening on Saturday June 19th from 4pm – 7pm. For more information call 01278 441234 or visit www.bridgwater.ac.uk

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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School celebrates diamond anniversary ASHBROOKE House is a long-established independent school for children aged three to 11. It is near Weston seafront and opposite Ellenborough Park. The school, which was founded in 1953, successfully prepares children for both the independent and maintained sectors and has a fine scholarship record.

High standards are achieved in the SATs; French and German has been taught for over 20 years and a broad and balanced curriculum is offered. The school is judged “Outstanding” by Ofsted in its provision of spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils.

The Nursery is an important part of the school and the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum is followed. Funding is available. Nursery children participate in whole school events such as concerts, fundraising activities and trips. Ofsted states: “They are very happy to be in school and their behaviour is outstanding.”

All children learn the recorder and the ukulele is taught in Year 6. Priate lessons in singing, violin, piano, brass and speech and drama are also offered. Children participate in the annual Weston Junior Arts Festival. PE has a high priority and the school grounds plus Ellenborough Park offer opportunities for a wide range of games and outdoor activities. Swimming is offered for one term each year.

Year 5 and 6 spend one week during the summer term at an outdoor centre where canoeing, caving, climbing and team building exercises are experienced. This helps develop self confidence, new skills and independence. Year 3 and 4 spend a

EDUCATION

night away at Goblin Combe activity centre. A wide range of trips are organised throughout the year.

High expectations not only in behaviour but in standards of work are emphasised and children of all ages take pride in aiming for and achieving high results. The school has a wide range of trophies and rewards and the school year always ends with a Prize Giving ceremony at a local hotel.

An active PTA organises social and fundraising events and has successfully created an adventure playground in the school grounds.

Ashbrooke House has successfully adapted over the years but has retained the fundamental principles of instilling high standards of behaviour and work in all pupils and in teaching them care, respect and responsibility for each other. Prospective parents are always welcome to visit and an appointment can be made through the secretary Mrs Biddle.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 25

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INTERNET

Emailing – part 5

In this month’s article we are looking at email folders and searching for lost (or temporarily geographically misplaced??) emails. Some providers – such as Gmail – don’t have folders, but call them Labels, but the same basic principle applies. For Gmail users – read Labels for Folders in the following text.

Your email Inbox can fill up quite quickly, so emails can be difficult to find with hundreds of emails all in one place. So you can create a folder for, say, Family, and move your emails into one place so they are easier to find. Now this is where it gets a bit complicated, as all providers are different!! But a little rummaging round in your emails should soon find the way!

For Windows (Live) Mail – click the Folders tab and click New Folder. Type the name you want (e.g. Family) and decide if you want it to nest inside another folder – if you want it to simply add to the list you have then click on the top option – our example says Btconnect, yours might say Accounts or Folders.

For other providers (such as Gmail) you need to find an icon (like a Folder symbol; as in the second example) or a Move link, so just click on Move and click on the Label you want, or click on Create New to start a new Folder.

If creating, moving, organising your emails seems too much hassle, perhaps simply searching for emails would be better?

Most email providers have a Search facility – often signified by a magnifying glass symbol. Just make sure you click in the Search box within the web page if you are using Webmail. In this example, we have a Google and an AVG search box at the top of the screen, but they will both search the web, not your emails. The one between the word Google and the blue Magnifying Glass is the Email search box. Click in there and type either the name of the person, or the subject line or just something within the body of the email, and in less than a second you should get your search results.

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

We offer individual training, either one-off sessions or a series, at a pace to suit you; a session lasts 2 hours and costs £10. We can cover a range of subjects including absolute basics on Windows XP/Vista/W7/W8; photo management; iPad; Tablet computers; basic web design; Word processing etc.

See our web site or contact us for further details.

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 1 Precise 7dn especially for 16a (4,7) 7 Said thus, prepare for 24 (3) 8 No artificial drink put in the cask (4,3) 9 Traditionally followed by 1ac (6) 11 Controversially good . . . when it comes to health (4) 12 Meet Ross somewhere around here (8) 15 Drove erratically towards cliffs (5) 16 Smith’s car swerved – blame the festive spirit? (9) 19 Restyle an approach – seriously (9) 20 Bacon or Guinness brings in the Irish (5) 21 Persuade Tarzan he should move to the Middle East (8) 24 Pay-off from 7ac (4) 26 It takes a nagger to sort out the cereal storage (6) 28 Buying’s her thing, but the resale involves her completely (7) 29 First of the 6 prepares for 16ac (3) 30 Moved directly at a parlour twice a day (5,6) DOWN 1/3/14 Decision to repair Aga interpreted as single topical reference (9,2,1,4,4) 2 High and finished getting car out? (2,3,4)

3 4 5 6 7

10 13 14 16 17 18 21 22 23 25 27

See 1 Pair with nothing made space for a reason (3,2) Junction in modern communication – big in US (3) Thank heavens for them . . . little ones, anyway (5) 1ac for example – sugared?

(5) Appropriate support for 7ac (7,5) How to post for 16ac (5) See 1 Action relating to 1ac and 9 for example – and much else besides over 16ac (5) Let go with the wine (4) Men came, it must be to accompany 1ac perhaps (9) Professional model for caring 6? (5) Roughly a dozen became separated (5) Races in Scottish river became shabby (5) She must have RAF interests (4) The missing ingredient is a record label (3)

Answers on Page 113

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Lifeboat alert

THE Mayor of Weston, Dave Hitchins, and his wife Carol lead the RNLI’s annual lifeboat pull along Weston seafront, which raised £1,100 for the charity. But after the five-mile slog in blistering heat, it was straight back to work for the crew, when they got a call saying two children were reported hanging on to the metalwork of the Grand Pier.

The D-class Lifeboat Anna Stock recovered them and the coastguard who had swum out to help. They were 12-year-olds on a day trip from Swindon. On the way back to their station both Weston boats responded to another alert, which turned out to be a false alarm.

Liam McDermott, helmsman of the Anna Stock, said: “These lads were very lucky. The tide comes in very quickly in this area and they would have been in serious danger very soon.”

School is race winner

NEWS

PENSFORD Primary School raised over £900 at the Pensford 10K and Fun Run by providing refreshments, selling cakes and manning stalls, as well as organising and participating in the fun run, held after the 26th annual Pensford 10K had been completed.

Almost 300 runners took part in the main race and braved the notorious Peppershells hill, in a race won by Nathan Young of Wells City Harriers in a time of 33:54. Senior ladies winner was Amy Chalk of Bristol and West AC in a time of 38:29.

Diamond couple

Olympic memento

A PIECE of Olympic ribbon has been cut up and presented to each school in B&NES, along with an Olympic certificate. Council chairman, Cllr. Rob Appleyard, is pictured making the presentation at Pensford Primary School.

He said: “I was really impressed how, during the celebration of last year, the school really got involved. This will give life memories to our children.”

Deputy head, Jo Flatley, who is also head of PE, said: “I chose Year 6 pupils to receive the certificate because they did the most last year, with the High Littleton project, which gave them the opportunity to work with a dance teacher on an Olympic inspired dance.”

MENDIP Times readers, Alec and Beryl Parkin, who live at Westfield, Radstock celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on May 9th. They held a family celebration at the Centurion Hotel and then a bowls match and meal for friends at Fosseway Bowls Club.

Alec joined the club on retirement and is a former treasurer and president of the Mid-Somerset Bowls League. The couple have three daughters, all graduates and now teachers, and six grandchildren – the two eldest boys have gained England rugby caps at U-16 and U-18.

Derek Roberts, one of the directors of Radstock Co-operative Society, is pictured presenting them with gifts.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 27

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Hoppy rides again!

SIMON Hopkinson is a cook and writer admired by me and just about everybody else.

I love his approach to food and cooking – no nonsense, just good flavours. His last television series – The Good Cook – was a huge success and he will be back on our screens on More4 in June for a new series where he shows you how you can With JUNE create quality restaurant food at home. Along the MACFARLANE way he talks to some of the people who share his approach to food, and one of them is from Wells. There will be a book based on the show later in the year, but I thought I would offer a couple of Hopkinson recipes here to get you all in the mood.

WARM SALAD OF BROAD BEANS, BACON AND SPINACH

A sit-on-the-fence salad, not entirely hot and not entirely cold, but colourful and hearty with quite a wallop from the garlic and the shallots.

METHOD

Layer the spinach leaves in a bowl, followed by the bacon, broken into pieces, the tarragon and parsley and finally the croutons. Let the beans boil in the water for 2-3 mins.

Drain, and slip the bright green inner beans out of their grey skins. Scatter on top of the spinach. Mix the olive oil and garlic together and spoon over the salad. Squeeze the lemon halves over everything, and season with the shallot, pepper and just a little salt. Toss immediately before serving.

INGREDIENTS

16-20 asparagus spears, trimmed and partially peeled 4 veal escalopes, beaten thin between two sheets of clingfilm A little olive oil for frying Juice of half a lemon 1 clove garlic, bruised 1 sprig rosemary, broken in half 1 egg yolk 1tsp smooth Dijon mustard salt, ground white pepper 150 ml sunflower oil 4 anchovies Lemon juice 75 ml olive oil Couple of pinches cayenne pepper

Veal with anchovy mayonnaise and asparagus

fresh spinach 4 handfuls of small, young & very leaves, washed & drained aky bacon, grilled 10-12 very thin slices rindless stre led until very crisp & brittle when coo only es leav n, ago 2 sprigs tarr es only 6-8 sprigs flat-leafed parsley, leav loaf, cut into e larg a from ad bre te 1 slice of whi make croutons small cubes & fried in olive oil to 1.4-1.8kg broad beans, podded 4-5 tbsp virgin olive oil ly chopped 1 small clove garlic, peeled & fine 1 small lemon, halved pped 1 large shallot, peeled & finely cho Coarsely ground black pepper A little flaky sea salt on the go A pan of well-salted boiling water

INGREDIENTS

VEAL WITH ANCHOVY MAYONNAISE AND ASPARAGUS Everything is so late this year that there is still lots of local asparagus, New Cross Farm (01460 241561) will be picking through to July and this recipe makes the most of it. Please use local English rose veal. The anchovy mayonnaise is brilliant!

METHOD

First make the mayonnaise. Whisk the egg yolk and the mustard in a roomy bowl, settled on a damp cloth. Add the sunflower oil slowly in a drizzle, whisking assiduously, and build up to a steady stream. When the mixture is like thick gloss paint whisk in the lemon juice and start to add the olive oil. When you have the consistency you want, chop the anchovies finely and add. Taste, season, and add more lemon juice if necessary. Finish with the cayenne. Set aside.

Season the veal and seal gently on all sides in a pan with a little olive oil. Do not allow to brown. Add a splash of vermouth, a squeeze of lemon and bubble gently. Add the garlic and the rosemary. Cover the pan. Continue to braise very gently, turning from time to time. Add more vermouth and lemon juice and reduce slowly. After a total of 20-25 minutes remove veal and cool, covered. Reserve the cooking juices.

When ready to serve, boil the asparagus in salted water until tender. Drain. Slice the veal thinly. Assemble the asparagus and the veal on a plate and trickle over the pan juices.

Sprinkle with some ground black pepper. Spoon some of the mayonnaise on to the plate (keep the rest for new potatoes!).

G A programme featuring Ian Bates, from The Old Spot in Wells, is due to be broadcast on Saturday, July 6th. See if you can recognise anybody at the table!

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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FOOD & DRINK

Country shopping at its best

Just desserts

Chef of Year Glen Phillips, lecturer Jos Wellman and Charlotte and Kayleigh

ICE creams, mousses, parfaits and chocolate confections were some of the delicious deserts concocted by 12 Weston College students at the college’s Chef of the Year’s 10th anniversary.

A stunning chocolate fondant complete with hazelnut brittle won 21-year-old catering student, Glenn Phillips, first prize. All the students first had to illustrate what they were going to create and the budget was a strict £4.

Judges included college lecturer Jos Wellman who has cooked for British royalty, American presidents, famous actors and singers worldwide. He said: “The students produced wonderful desserts that tempted not just the eye but more importantly the palate.”

Charlotte Dawson, aged 17, took second place with raspberry mousse and third with chocolate brownie, strawberries and cream was Kayleigh Fisher, aged 16.

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW

SHOP EXTENDED – EVEN MORE CHOICE

Tasty Cheddar strawberries – and our own cream!

Home-produced beef, pork and lamb

Beautiful Somerset willow and wonderful plants

Local apple juice, cider and chutneys

CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH US! NEW WEEKDAY TEA DEAL £1 for a cup of tea and cup cake, 2.30pm-4.30pm Monday to Friday RESTAURANT AND FISH AND CHIPS TAKEAWAY 12noon to 2pm and 5pm-7pm CAFE OPEN 9am-5pm midweek Saturday 8.30am-7pm Sunday 8.30am-4pm for breakfasts and Sunday roasts

Function and conference rooms now available for parties, meetings and training

Traditional Fish and Chips, Sunday Roasts, Cream Teas and Ice Cream

Gifts including Emma Bridgwater china

Geoff’s fresh fish every Friday and Saturday

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 Sunday roast lunches Full English breakfasts

NEW FUNCTION ROOM NOW 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 • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 29

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MENDIP TIMES

Salad days at the Rock Cake Café SUMMER is here! Well, it is at the Rock Cake Café at the Rocky Mountain Garden Centre, between Shepton Mallet and Wells.

Zoe Emery and her team have launched their summer menu offering a wide range of salads – such as ham, prawn or goats cheese – featuring fresh herbs. But they’re also more than happy to create salads to diners’ orders and can be made big enough to share!

One of the newest members of staff is teenager Jenny Cole, whose love of cooking at home has led to a career in the catering and hospitality industry. Jenny, 17, comes from a farming family in Polsham, near Wells, and studied at Strode College where she gained Level Two in Hospitality and Catering, serving her apprenticeship at the Spinning Wheel Café in Wells. Her ultimate ambitions are either to train as a chef or become a wedding cake designer.

Zoe said: “I’m delighted to have Jenny here and I have also taken on some more staff as we go into one of our busiest times of the year.”

Jenny at the Rock Cake Café

The Rock Cake Café has also welcomed pianist and singer Chris Griffith to its regular live music slots on Sunday lunchtimes. Chris, from Peasedown St. John, is a piano tutor and also plays at weddings, parties and other special occasions. There’s little chance of Chris running out of tunes – he reckons he has somewhere in the region of 150-

200 in his repertoire!

Zoe is now offering an outside catering service, taking orders for functions ranging from weddings to business meetings.

And Zoe and the team have decided to raise money for Cancer Research; they’re planning to take part in a number of abseils and are looking for sponsorship.

Rosina, our resident clairvoyant, returns on Friday, June 21st. 3pm onwards. Booking advisable

Tel: 01749 840900 Sunday lunch is so popular that it is advisable to book in advance. Our summer menu, featuring sensational salads with fresh herbs, is also available.

We now offer an outside catering service for weddings, business meetings etc.

Welcome to Jenny who has joined the team Pianist/singer Chris Griffith will be performing at lunchtime, Sunday, June 30th. *Grey Dogs here on Sunday, July 7th.

Visit Rocky Mountain Garden Centre for all your gardening needs

Rock Cake Café, Rocky Mountain Garden Nursery, Masbury, nr. Wells, BA5 3HA. Tel: 01749 840900 PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Picturesque village pub with riverside garden Lunch menu: One course £6.95, two courses £8.95 or three courses £9.95 Happy Hour Monday to Friday 3pm to 7pm Ideal for parties, weddings and christenings www.thedukeholcombe.co.uk Tel: 01761 233731 • Satnav: BA3 5HQ

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FOOD & DRINK

Let us bake!

A BAKING competition for adults and children and a flower festival will be among the features of a weekend of events celebrating village life in Holcombe.

St Andrew’s parish church and the peaceful spaces of Holcombe’s old church (also St Andrew’s), which featured in last month’s edition of Mendip Times, will both be venues for St Andrew’s Flower Festival in July.

Recipes for the baking competition have been provided by the chefs of Holcombe’s two pubs: the Holcombe Inn and the Duke of Cumberland. Recipes for two age categories in the children’s competition (under-12 and 12-16) are also available. Judging will take place at 4pm on Saturday, July 6th in Holcombe Village Hall.

Organiser Gay Curtis said: “The part these buildings have played in the lives of Holcombe’s past and present life will be celebrated by the beauty of displays, not only of flowers from hedgerow or garden but possibly a piece of family history – a wedding photograph, a picture of a family’s house or business.

“Holcombe’s clubs and organisations will be arranging displays that reflect their contribution to the social life of the village and private, personal displays are invited, celebrating an anniversary or the life of a loved one.”

On Sunday, July 7th there will be a service in each of the

The tranquillity of Holcombe’s Old Church

churches: at the parish church of St Andrew’s on Holcombe Hill, there will be a Flower Festival service at 11.15 am with a special service sheet which will include photographs of many of the arrangements and in the evening, at 6.30 pm, there will be a Flower Festival Evensong at the Old Church.

Both St Andrew churches and the Village Hall will be open on the Saturday between 10am and 4pm and on the Sunday between 2pm and 4pm.

Entrance to the churches is free. Recipes for the baking competition cost £2 for adults and £1 for children.

For more details please contact Gay Curtis on 01761 232140.

The Holcombe Inn

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

Summer days and summer nights at the award-winning Holcombe Inn

Cocktails at The Holcombe Inn

Magnificent gardens, breathtaking views, incredible sunsets.

Enjoy a Mojito, Vesper Martini, Champagne Cocktail, Flirtini, or a Jug of Pimms or Sangria.

Real Ales, local ciders, over 25 wines by the glass and a specialist malt whisky collection.

Award winning food, wonderful Dinner menu and “LUNCH GRUB” menu including Sandwiches, The Holcombe Burger and Spicy Chicken Ciabatta. Try one of our great steaks for taste with hand cut chips and a choice of sauces.

8 Individually designed Rooms with luxury bathrooms.

Website: www.holcombeinn.co.uk • E-mail: bookings@holcombeinn.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 31

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Cider, cheese – and sunshine!

THE sun shone brightly on the first annual Somerset Cider and Cheese Fayre at the Ring O’ Bells, Compton Martin,

which attracted about 1,500 people.

The crowds were entertained by the gentle sound of the Winterbourne St. Michael Hand Bell Ringers, female Morris dancers and by the informative talks given by Alan Stone about his book In Search of Cider, Adrian Boots on Wild Food and Foraging and Julian Temperley about his Burrow Hill Cider Brandy.

Julian’s daughter, fashion designer Alice Temperley and family, dropped by as did Michael Eavis, who is pictured with pub co-owner Miles Leonard and BBC Radio Bristol Saturday presenters Livvy and Chrissie.

The event raised £980 for Macmillan Nurses, £630 for the village hall, £580 for Barton Camp run by the Bristol Children’s Help Society, and £200 for St. Michael the Archangel Church Bell Fund.

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GARDEN FOOD

Apricot kernels

EVEN though this isn’t something that I’ve grown in my garden (yet), I’d like to share a discovery I’ve made recently – that inside the pit of an apricot is a delicious edible nut, much like an almond.

Now, before I go any further, I should With JAKE warn that apricot kernels, like apple WHITSON seeds, blackthorn blossom, fairy ring mushrooms, cassava, bamboo shoots and, indeed, almonds, have varying amounts of cyanogenic glucosides in them, which when chewed and digested break down into hydrogen cyanide and sugar.

Indeed the almond flavour that is common to many of them is partly due to these glucosides. Some of these things need to be cooked or processed to make them edible (such as cassava, bamboo shoots and fairy ring mushrooms).

However others like apricot kernels usually have low amounts and are safe to consume raw in moderate amounts as a nut (as they are across Asia and the Mediterranean). That being said, it’s best to err on the side of caution – eat just a few at first and don’t eat more than 15-20 in a day.

With the warning out of the way, I can say that apricot kernels are truly delicious – like an almond, but sweeter and with a stronger aroma. I have mainly been eating the kernels from a bag of dried Hunza apricots and I’ve enjoyed them so much that I’ve decided to try growing them as a crop in the greenhouse.

Apricots alone always seemed like a rather extravagant use of greenhouse space to me, but now that I know I’ll be getting a nut harvest out of it as well, I’ve changed my mind.

Wild Hunza apricots, unlike cultivated forms, will grow true from seed – simply crack the pits carefully (I use fencing pliers, though good nut crackers will do), extract the kernels and soak them overnight.

Then wrap them in some damp kitchen towel, seal in a ziplock bag and place in the fridge. Check every few weeks and plant the kernels in compost as they start to sprout.

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

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

Anyone fancy a cup of Saloop?

I HAVE to start off by saying that it is illegal and just plain irresponsible to dig up any wild flower. I am a firm believer in admiring the beauty of spring flowers in their own right – leaving them where they are found. If you need to experiment then take them from your own garden. However, I wanted to share with With ADRIAN you a small part of the story of this BOOTS fascinating plant as a wild food.

Early Purple Orchid must set a record for the most local names, a testament to its prevalence in the countryside and what was on the minds of the folk that lived there: Adam and Eve, Cain and Able, Ducks and Drakes, Lords and Ladies, and what has to be the best local name ever, now let me get this right, ‘gramfer-griddlegoosey-gander’.

Of course all these names refer to its twin tubers and their resemblance to certain body parts so it was believed to be a potent aphrodisiac. The Latin name doesn’t hold back either: ‘Orchis’ refers to testicle and ‘mascula’ is the masculine.

Early Purple Orchid (Orchis mascula) is an erect perennial 10 to 40 cm in height. Flowers are purple sometimes pink with a threelobed lip 6 to 8mm long. The flower head is in dense cylindrical spikes. The leaves are long, thin and oblong with purple spots.

This is the first orchid of the spring and can be seen from April to June often growing with bluebells. Considered widespread, they are no longer common and seem to be localised to certain areas.

One sunny spring day some years ago, I discovered an Early Purple Orchid growing in our paddock. I was very excited so called my wife and friend over to have a look. But we were not the only ones to be taking an interest in this flower today. Oh no.

Whilst we were in a huddle and my wife and friend indulged me pontificating about the flower, Jeago, our wily old horse, stuck his nose in and with one swift ‘chomp’ confirmed what I thought – that Early Purple Orchids are quite edible thank you.

So what the devil is ‘Saloop’? Well, it’s a drink based on a Turkish beverage called ‘Sahlep’ made from the dried then ground up tubers of the Early Purple Orchid. Water or milk was added and sometimes fortified with alcohol, which made it a very popular drink before the introduction of coffee.

Apparently the Victorians drank a lot of it – and we know what was on their minds too. I can’t say what Saloop tastes like but suspect the old horse would have liked it.

Adrian Boots is a Landscape Ecologist, researcher and farm conservation advisor. You can visit his website www.walkthemendips.com to learn more about the Mendips and his Wild Food Walks.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 33

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The Almshouse Tea Shop

Champion pies

Breakfast, lunch & afternoon tea in an historic, medieval setting e Square, Axbridge, Somerset BS26 2AR check us out on Trip Adviser

JUNE 2013 DATES

Wells: every Wednesday 9am-2.30pm All other markets 9am-1pm unless marked*

Saturday 1st Midsomer Norton & Axbridge Friday 7th – Wincanton Saturday 8th Frome & Keynsham Saturday 15th – Crewkerne Friday 21st Cheddar* (10am-2pm) Saturday 22nd Glastonbury* & Yeovil* (9am-2pm) Friday 28th Burnham-on-Sea

Tel: 01373 814646

www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk

01934 733720 www.thealmshouseteashop.co.uk Wednesday-Friday 9-5pm (Closed Mon & Tues) Weekends & Bank Holidays 10-4pm

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

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

LOCAL pie producer, Jon Thorner’s, has won a stream of top prizes at two pie competitions.

The Pylle-based butcher’s Beef and Guinness pie took champion status in the Beef and Any Flavour Combination category at the British Pie Awards, hosted in Melton Mowbray.

At meat industry EBLEX’s England’s Best Steak Pie competition, the company received awards for every pie they entered. Jon Thorner (left) is pictured with head chef John Emery with the British Pie Awards trophy and winning pie.

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

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

Opening times 12pm till 11pm.

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

DUCK RACE SATURDAY 13th JULY

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

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

Visit www.theplumeoffeathers.com

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FOOD & DRINK

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MENDIP TIMES

Back to his roots

selection of dishes, each featuring an element of West Country fare, whilst reflecting the changing seasons.”

G Adrian Lawrence and the team at The

Crown will once again be supporting this year’s charity Boules Tournament, being held in the Market Place on Sunday, July 14th.

For more information, visit: www.crownatwells.co.uk

BEAH

English & Mediterranean Restaurant, Wells

A la carte menu

(including authentic Moroccan tagines)

Two-course £12 dinner menu Served Monday – Thursday from 6pm Two-course £10 lunch menu Served Monday – Saturday from 12 noon – 2pm (3pm Saturdays) HAVING A PARTY? Come & see out beautiful upstairs function room ideal for all occasions, menus to suit all budgets

For more information, call Nicola on

01749 678111 email info@beah.co.uk • www.beah.co.uk 2, Union Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2PU Relaxed and friendly dining in the heart of Wells PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

(Photo by Toril Simpson)

AFTER 23 years away from Wells honing his skills, Giles Sampson has returned to join Adrian Lawrence and the team at The Crown as head chef.

In his student days at Weston College, Giles worked part-time as a silver service waiter at The Crown. Early on in his career, Giles worked at a variety of establishments around Wells, including The Fountain Inn, also owned then, as it is now,

by Adrian Lawrence.

After leaving the city, Giles worked at an array of hotels and eateries in and around London before returning to the West Country to work in an award-winning restaurant in Bristol.

Giles, who originally comes from Draycott, returned to The Crown at the beginning of April and has been busy putting his personal stamp on the menus for Anton’s Bistrot and The Penn Bar. He said: “This is a great opportunity to showcase the wonderful produce we have on our door step and our new menus epitomise that. We have an eclectic

Giles Sampson head chef at The Crown at Wells and Anton’s Bistrot

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Chips with everything

A GROUP of food and drink and travel writers from across the UK and Belgium have been taken on a tour of some of the most innovative producers around Mendip.

The three-day trip was part of a European Union-funded project know as Fish and Chips, a campaign run by Somerset County Council to promote Somerset as a county with a thriving food and drink sector as well as being a premier tourist destination.

The group’s itinerary ranged from visits to Jon Thorner’s award-winning business at Pylle, near Shepton Mallet, to Wilkins cider farm at Mudgeley and Wells Farmers Market.

FOOD & DRINK

THE RED LION VILLAGE PUB & RESTAURANT

Sutton Hill Road, Bishop Sutton BS39 5UT 01275 333042 Kitchen now open on Mondays – 6pm–9pm

Wednesday Night is Grill Night Grill £9 and a bottle of house wine £10

Sunday Lunch (Served 12 midday–3pm)

Three Courses, £15.50 One or two courses and smaller portions also served

If you fancy something different – our Full Menu is also available

Summer Events

Sunday 23rd June – 3pm start

Midsummer BBQ and Kids’ Games with prizes in the garden

Father’s Day Lunch Sunday 16th June Booking Essential

Bed Race BBQ

Saturday 13th July – 5pm start

Large Garden for lazy Summer Days or lively kids

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OPEN BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS FOR FOOD, LUNCHTIME & EVENING

Opening times: 6pm-11pm Monday and all week 12noon-2.30pm Tuesday to Thursday Open all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday

01761 221429

AT EAST HARPTREE

Tuesdays

Steak + Pint Night – £9.00

You can look at our new à la carte menu online www.thewaldegravearms.co.uk

Wednesdays

Fish & Chips + Pint Night – £6.00 We also have a specials board and selection of sandwiches

DIARY DATES SUNDAY 16TH JUNE – FATHER’S DAY LUNCH 12 noon–2.30pm – Booking essential EVER-CHANGING SPECIALS BOARD Locally sourced meat from Paul Loder, Butcher and fresh fish from the South Coast, daily deliveries from Samways at Bridport Five en-suite bedrooms are available for booking on any night.

View these rooms on-line on our website Winners of the Design & Build Excellence Award (Highly Commended) from Mendip District Council This accommodation is ideally located close to the Bath & West Showground.

Royal Bath & West Show 2013 runs from 29th May – 1st June

Sunday lunch is a must try!

Church Lane, East Harptree BS40 6BD www.thewaldegravearms.co.uk • email: waldegravearms@btconnect.com

natterjack

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 37

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How Emma overcame dyslexia

EMMA Rogers from Nyland, Cheddar has become UK National Apprentice of the Year, after previously winning Weston College’s apprentice of the year and the principal’s Outstanding Achievement Award.

Emma, aged 20, a young mum, who is profoundly dyslexic, has opened her own shop – Beauty by Emma in Wedmore.

Emma said: “I was so shocked and happy when I was told I’d won National Apprentice of the Year; it’s the best award yet. Every time I win something it’s a great surprise but inspires me to go on to the next thing.

“Studying at Weston College has been an amazing journey for me and it’s one I am keen to share to help support other young people find their path in life. I struggled at school because I’m dyslexic but I was happy to find what I was good at.

“I have to force myself to deal with paperwork for my business but do it. I didn’t expect to be a mum so young but having Charlie-James inspired me to get on and make the most of my life. His dad is very supportive, as are both our families.

“My business is successful and it’s thanks to the training, support and vision I received at Weston College.”

Emma started her apprenticeship in April 2010 but left in December to have her son Charlie-James. When he was just three months old she returned to win Gold in her first UK WorldSkills competition, against apprentices from across the country.

Emma was nominated by her tutor, Head of Apprentices in Beauty, Hair, Barbering and Nails, Tanita Veal, who said: “Every now and then someone crosses your path who is truly exceptional. Emma is like a breath of fresh air.

“She’s displayed drive, passion, enthusiasm and total dedication to her apprenticeship, training and learning. We supported her dyslexia and Emma has overcome this and proved it isn’t a barrier to learning. She is an amazing person with courage, focus and commitment.”

A brick amongst his peers A YOUNG bricklaying student from Radstock is laying the foundations for success in a career in construction after winning a prize for his skills at a regional competition.

Chai Francis, 15, was awarded the Construction Industry Training Board Inter Schools Competition (Year 11) Shield at the 2013 Regional Bricklaying Competition run by the Western Section of Guild of Bricklayers at Exeter College.

Chai is taking the Construction Awards Alliance Level 1 Diploma in Bricklaying course at Norton Radstock College, through the College’s Schools Link

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

NEWS

Young carers get golf lesson

THE Mendip Spring Golf Club joint captains’ charity for 2013 is Crossroads Care, a support service for young carers based in Weston-super-Mare. As part of their support, club captain Bill Hole and PGA advanced professional Robert Moss hosted an introductory golf evening for some of the young carers, aged between six and 11 years.

Speeches get high marks

MENDIP Rotary’s public speaking competition was of a very high standard. Mike Gelder, vice president, is pictured with the winner, Spencer Williams, and the other contestants, Tom Postins and Andrew Rose. To the rear are Charles Lane, Rotary chairman of youth and Tom Sinclair, English Teacher of Kings of Wessex Academy, Cheddar.

Programme, while also studying GCSEs at Writhlington School in Radstock.

Mark Hopkinson, who heads up the course at Norton Radstock College, said: “Chai`s enthusiasm and talent for bricklaying has been apparent from the outset of the course, and I am sure that this has helped him succeed in a highly competitive bricklaying competition environment.”

Mark Everett, headteacher at Writhlington School, said: “This is an amazing achievement and we are all very proud of Chai. Chai’s success is due to his hard work and talent and the support

he has had from his college tutors. The opportunity could only have presented itself due to the excellent working relationship that we have with Norton Radstock College and I thank them for all the work they have done to support Chai to win this competition.”

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Coping with the show season

Timsbury Workshop Estate Mini Units in planning

Photography Studio

IT Computing

Florist

Food Preparation

Cake Making

Artist Studio

All enquiries: Call 01761 470523 or Email: timsburyworkshops@yahoo.com

Jackets Fleeces G Walking Boots G Bags G Hats, Gloves G Travel Clothing G G

No. 1 Broad Street Congresbury BS49 5DG 01934 877333 www.countryinnovation.com

THE show season has arrived and I, like many others, will be taking the odd day off to enjoy the showcase of all things horticultural, agricultural, foodie or rural this summer - weather permitting, of course.

Not wishing to dwell on last year’s weather, but the cost of show cancellations and poor turnouts left many businesses and events in dire straits.

The CLA (Countryside Land & Business Association) reported the resulting impact of last year’s major shows cancellations to be around £155 million in lost revenue to the rural economy. Taking into account the smaller events, the greater cost is estimated at more than £240 million.

Businesses relying wholly or greatly on show attendance have needed to rethink their marketing strategies completely, some haven’t survived.

Working previously as an exhibitor at shows and behind the scenes organising public festivals, I fully appreciate the extraordinary effort that goes in to staging these events for all to enjoy. These events are important, for business and for pleasure.

Good weather helps, but there are a number of factors that make a great event. Key is first class organisation, a showcase of friendly exhibitors with interesting products and good marketing and PR to attract the right audience.

So, whether you are behind a stand promoting your wares, selling the tickets or serving the cream teas – keep smiling, look interested and take your breaks away from your pitch (no one will buy from you if you are reading the paper!). Every role is important and all the effort will make a difference.

Gill Ainge Peppercorn Projects

Workshops available

AN exciting new project is in the planning stage at family-run Timsbury Workshop Estate. Some older units are being demolished to make way for some new mini individual workshops for rent, the size approximately 30ft x 16ft.

Parking is provided and the workshops are sited on a secure gated estate. Flexible leases are available. The units can be prebooked before they are built.

Details: 01761 470523 or e-mail Timsburyworkshops@yahoo.com

ECATCHER MOL

NO MOLE NO FEE Telephone 01275 332966 PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

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

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Classic flowers

BUSINESS

Considering building an extension?

Or maybe a new home?

CLASSIC Flower Designs have just celebrated their first year in their Chew Stoke shop. They run an independent flower business, creating flowers for weddings, funerals and special occasions, as well as their flower school, which they hold in the shop.

You can visit their shop on the Fairseat Workshops site, which sells cut flowers and plants, alongside planted outdoor containers and ready to go arrangements. The shop also stocks a wide range of china, giftware, cards and wrapping; the talented team make much of the range themselves, including children’s clothes and knitwear, candles and bunting.

Third successful year

DELLA Valle Architects is a young and enthusiastic practice, managed and run by directors Francesco and Nicola Della Valle.

Being brought up in Somerset, they have a strong connection with the area and understand the importance of creating and maintaining good relationships with clients from build conception to project completion.

Della Valle Architects has now completed its third successful year in business and was once again nominated for awards by Mendip District Council Building Control. This year they were awarded highly commended in the Small Commercial Buildings Award (buildings over £1 million) for Frampton’s Warehouse and have been put forward for the South West awards to be held in Torquay in June.

Maybe you simply require architectural advice to weigh up your op ons?

Della Valle Architects Ltd is a Chartered Prac ce providing architectural services including, concept and construc on design, planning and building regula ons.

Please call us on 01749 330 672 for a no obliga on ini al consulta on.

The Wedding Florists based in the heart of the Chew Valley.

Natural, country lowers for your wedding day

A traditional %lower shop selling cut %lowers, planted containers and ready to go arrangements. You can also buy gifts, handmade treats and cards.

You can +ind them at Unit 5, Fairseat Workshops, Stoke Hill, Chew Stoke, Bristol BS40 8XF Tel: 01275 333095 • www.classic+lowerdesigns.co.uk ‘Seasonal %lowers, herbs and foliage mixed with a little country chic . . . the English cottage garden in a bouquet’

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 41

Photo by Ignyte Limited, Radstock.

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MENDIP TIMES

Bookbarn International

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Millions of books, thousands of topics, ONE Bookbarn

Top accolade from National Law Society

BARTLETT, Gooding and Weelen, who have offices in Shepton Mallet, Castle Cary, Glastonbury and Cheddar, have secured the National Law Society’s law management quality mark, Lexcel (see advertisement on page 9).

Lexcel is developed specifically for the legal profession.

It is an optional recognised accreditation scheme for law firms and in-house legal departments which gives assurance that a practice meets high client care and business management standards.

To gain and retain Lexcel accreditation, practices must undergo a rigorous initial then annual application and assessment process. This includes conducting background checks and an on-site visit from an experienced, trained Lexcel assessor.

Dervla Nash, the Managing Partner said: “While we are proud to have secured Lexcel, it is our clients and staff who are the main beneficiaries. They can be assured that the way we manage the practice has their interests at heart and runs efficiently. There is a lot of choice in the legal services market, but being Lexcel accredited demonstrates our commitment to client care and best practice”.

Lucy Scott-Moncrieff, President of the Law Society of England and Wales, said: “Gaining and maintaining Lexcel is no mean feat. There are many facets of being a Lexcel accredited law firm, including client care. A commitment to customer service in today’s evermore competitive legal services market is vital.

“By undergoing the rigorous Lexcel application and assessment process practices can show the positive steps they are taking to help clients in the increasingly diverse complicated legal services market. The scheme is a beacon of quality to clients and potential clients alike.”

Bartlett Gooding and Weelen joins more than 1200 other legal practices in England and Wales with Lexcel accreditation. The practice management accolade has also gone international, with firms in Scotland, the Middle East, Poland and the Republic of Ireland having gained accreditation.

Director of the year nomination

BUSINESSWOMAN Helen Lacey, who runs Red Berry Recruitment in Shepton Mallet and Yeovil, has been shortlisted for the Institute of Director’s South West Young Director of the Year Award.

It is the second year running that Helen has reached the shortlist and she said she was delighted when she was told the news. The winner will be announced at an IOD event in Bristol in June.

Meanwhile, Helen will be visiting the Royal Bath and West Show again this year: this time as guest judge for the Federation of Small Businesses which will be handing out awards for the best trade stands.

PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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BUSINESS

Underlying factors of recession

DID you know that if a recession is imminent, people of the male persuasion take to buying fewer underpants? If not, well you heard it here first. Why this should be the case is uncertain, but it may be that a certain down-heartedness wends its way like a grey river mist into the underwear drawers of businessmen across the country.

I have heard that a friend of mine refuses to pay “£20 for a pair of designer drawers when I can buy five pairs for a tenner in Tesco’s!”, but this is surely an issue of budgeting and not recession?

If you’re not convinced by this, check out the lipsticks in the lives of your female friends. Apparently women buy more of these when recession is afoot. It is considered an affordable treat and lipstick is a lot cheaper than a designer handbag or shoes but still gives a lift to lipstick lovers.

If you’re not a cosmetics aficianado, then take a look at hemlines. These tend to drop when things are tough. This certainly happened in the 30s and the 70s (remember

Martin and Jane Bowe (centre) with some of their guests at a networking event they hosted to mark the 20th anniversary of the business. The reception was held at Ston Easton Park.

the ‘midi’ skirts?); but it is a little bit tricky to use this as a measurement today when leggings are in fashion and hemlines appear to have been abandoned altogether.

Apparently, we also treat ourselves with luxury comestibles when times are tough.

Luxury cups of coffee and ‘posh’ crisps are on the menu, it seems – in which case, a ‘double dip’ to go with the crisps may be ideal.

A really good quick measurement of the

economy can be a ‘crane count’. Not the long legged birds on chimney pots, of course, but the mechanical ones which rise above towns and cities when the construction industry is in full swing. If there are a lot, then times are good, if there aren’t, then times are bad – simple as that.

So, there you have it. This is how to take the temperature of a possibly ailing economy – or is it just pants?

Jane Bowe ProBusiness

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 43

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Work in Wells Week

Work in Wells organiser Judith Ludovino and guest speaker Tamsin Fox-Davies, an expert on social media, prepare to welcome guests to the event at the Town Hall

A SERIES of events have been held to promote Wells as an ideal location for start-ups and small businesses.

Work in Wells featured a business fair and a series of advice seminars from experts based in the city and surrounding area. It also celebrated the imminent opening of a new venture in Wells called the Mendip Hub, which offers workspaces and business support services.

SUBCONTRACTOR? We specialise in Tax Returns for Sub-Contractors.

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Organiser Judith Ludovino helps guest speaker Tamsin to cut the ribbon to open the Work in Wells business fair

Dovecotes & Poultry Arks

CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY

We make Dovecotes and Poultry Arks Installation Service available Supply and fix all types of Fencing, also repairs Established since 1965

TONY HYNAM Tel: 01275 463525

PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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

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BUSINESS

Top dog

LOUISE Irlam has opened a small dog grooming salon at her home in Felton, after over 30 years with the Avon and Somerset Constabulary, most of which was as a mounted police officer, so her career has now changed from horses to dogs!

She trained at The Canine Design grooming academy in Evercreech and has successfully achieved a City and Guilds Level 3 qualification. She will only ever have one dog at a time so your pet is given individual attention immediately on arrival. Local collection is also available, as are weekend and early evening appointments.

Louise works in conjunction with her sister who runs Executive Dogs, a home boarding establishment also based in Felton, so owners can

return to a freshly washed and groomed dog!

BARKING BEAUTIES

executive grooming for executive dogs barkingbeautiesfelton@gmail.com

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8 Currells Lane Felton BS40 9XG 07570 808533

TOPSOIL

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High quality dry screened or plain

CRUSHED CONCRETE All sizes graded and single size

ROAD PLANINGS LIAS STONE Hand dressed for house building

Large or small quantities supplied Delivered or collected

01761 241387 www.pennyplant.com MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 45

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Waterbox research

Lots of laughter

Emilie (above) and Maria are flanked by Hugo (left) and Ray at the charity’s base at the Westfield Business Centre

TWO student nurses from Sweden have visited the WaterSurvival Box scheme in Westfield, near Midsomer Norton, as part of a research project.

Maria Harken and Emelie Andersson, of Vastermalm High School in Sundsvall, became interested in the charity following a visit by Chelwood Bridge Rotarians Ray Lithgo and Hugo Pike to a Rotary Institute meeting held last summer in Sundsvall.

The Water-Survival Box project arose from the 2004 tsunami in the Indian Ocean and contains a water purification pack to provide clean drinking water and a range of essential survival items. These include utensils for feeding and drinking, health and hygiene items, basic shelter and simple tools, various household items and a couple of toys for children.

All the contents are newly-purchased and are sent by air so that the boxes can be distributed to the survivors of disaster within days rather than the weeks or months taken before.

Since 2006, a total of some 7400 WSBs have been sent following disasters in 29 countries across the world.

Maria and Emelie, both 18, helped pack a number of boxes during their visit.

G A Rotary team from Turkey has also visited the scheme. Assistant Governor Reha Akin and his team of four young business people from the Izmir and Bursa areas Turkish study group (l:r): team leader of the country Rotary Assistant Governor Reha Akin were part of a (Rotary Club of Nilofer-Bursa), Cagli Rotary Group Camci (Izmir), Yildirim Hacioglu Study Exchange (Bursa), Begum Tinaz (Izmir) And Hilal Isleroglu (Izmir) programme.

PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Simon Coomb, chairman of the charity trustees, with Marjorie and Liz Brown, the charity’s chief executive

THE new Dorothy House Hospice outreach centre at Peasedown St John was opened officially with the unveiling of a plaque – and lots of laughter.

Long-time Dorothy House supporter Marjorie Coulthard MBE, who was one of the original physiotherapists when Dorothy House was established in 1976, was the guest of honour.

The centre will provide services to patients and families in the Radstock and Shepton Mallet areas and was partially funded by a very generous donation in memory of Jackie Williams.

Jackie was a day patient at Dorothy House and enjoyed participating in the creative sessions, including pottery.

Jenny Steele, from the hospice, said: “We felt it was fitting for the plaque remembering Jackie and marking the opening of the centre to be made in pottery and crafted

by Bethan Sheff, who worked alongside Jackie in Marjorie her time at Dorothy admires the House.” See page plaque 47.

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Mendip tea party

MARIE Curie Cancer Care is asking people to hold a Blooming Great Tea Party this June and July to help raise funds for the charity. It can be as simple as a cuppa with colleagues, a vintage inspired tea party, or garden party with friends. It’s a great way to get together with friends and family to do something easy and fun for charity.

The money raised will help Marie Curie nurses to provide more free care to people with terminal illnesses in their own homes. Zoe Partridge, Somerset and Dorset Community Fundraiser said: “Whether you’re a dab hand at baking cakes or simply enjoying a cuppa with friends is more your cup of tea, holding a Blooming Great Tea Party is a fun way to get together and raise funds for an important cause.”

Details: www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty call 08700 340 040 or to speak with your local fundraising team call 01884 703537.

Friends scale new heights

JASON Lusty is part of a group of eight friends from the Radstock and Frome areas who are aiming to climb Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, to raise £30,000 in support of the MNDA – Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The trip is being organised in memory of Alistair Banks, who died aged 42, following a two-year battle with the disease. Alistair was deputy head at Matravers School in Westbury, Wiltshire, and his son is an under-9 player for Frome Collegians AFC. Jason said: “We all have an association with Frome Collegians football club, as did Alistair, who was an inspiration to all who met him. We are dedicating our climb to Alistair, who was known as Alistair the Optimist, helping to raise money for MNDA in order that they can fund their cutting-edge research into the cause and cure of this disease.”

Jason’s preparation has included running the half marathons in Bath and Cardiff – running the Bath Half with his wife, son, sister and two nephews – as well as the Great South Run. Over the last few months he has been fitting training in around his job, and running around 10 miles every weekend.

Jason is enlisting the help of his colleagues at CFH in Radstock in fundraising – which has included setting up a swear box in the office, attending team fundraising events and individual pledges of support.

Details: Facebook page “June2013-KilimanjaroforMNDA” or donate on www.Justgiving.com/June2013KilimanjaroforMNDA

Healthy growth

CHARITIES

LOCAL charity, Tai Chi for Health, has grown so much it is looking for a paid administrator to help cope with its 29 volunteer instructors and 400 pupils. It has two classes in Wells and one in Wincanton. The classes are free, but donations are requested to cover costs.

Pedal power

A CHARITY Pedal Powered Ponies Race Evening held at Shipham Village Hall resulted in the president of Wrington Vale Rotary Club, Peter Roswell, presenting a cheque for £500 to Shipham Pre-School.

Pictured (ltor) are Sharon Watts, Lindsay Millar and Liz Hallett of Shipham Pre-School, with Peter Roswell and Tony Thurling of the Wrington Vale Rotary.

Lodge helps air ambulance

A CHEQUE for £500 has been presented to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance charity by the Royal Clarence Lodge of Freemasons in Bruton.

The money was raised by the lodge’s Worshipful Master, Roger Cock, at a social event at Castle Cary Rugby Club.

Roger (right) presented the cheque to air ambulance pilot Paul Merritt who gave a talk about the service.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 47

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Charity concert

Cake and a chat

A typical tea party underway

EVERYONE pulled together for charity at Writhlington’s welcoming Prospect Theatre and enjoyed the “Springtime Showstoppers” concert organised by Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel Club.

Featuring Bath Male Choir and Bath Light Operatic Group, the well-known songs and gems from the West End shows were hugely enjoyed, with audience participation rounding off the evening.

Two organisations will benefit from over £3,500 raised – Grenville’s Goldies singing groups, that over three counties bring joy to hundreds of lonely and isolated people, and Freewheelers whose volunteers provide a free out-of-hours motorcycle blood courier service to hospitals in SW England.

All who had helped towards the evening’s success, especially the entertainers who had given their time free of charge, were thanked by joint IW presidents Mollie Arnold and Linda Tanner.

Cancer charity cheque

A CHARITY which provides companionship for older people who live alone is setting up a new group in Glastonbury.

Contact the Elderly is urgently looking for more volunteers of any age to be drivers and hosts as it builds on the success of the recently-launched Frome and Yeo groups.

It works by recruiting small groups of volunteer drivers who pick up and take older guests to a host’s home for tea one Sunday a month.

The Glastonbury scheme is being supported by the Rotary Club of Avalon. Helen Ker, Contact the Elderly’s Regional Development Officer for Somerset, said: “It’s really heartening when people are willing to spare the time to do something to help.”

Amanda, who will run the Glastonbury group, said: “I’d like to hear from any drivers who would be willing to spare a Sunday afternoon once a month, or hosts who’d be able to have a small group of older people and their drivers to tea in their homes just twice a year. All that would be needed is a downstairs cloakroom and a large teapot!”

To find out more call Contact the Elderly on 0800 716543 (freephone) or Helen on 0117 9609606. E-mail: helen.ker@contact-the-elderly.org.uk or visit www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk

Fine by us!

(l:r): Andy Jones, from Teetime Catering at The Mendip Golf Club, event organisers David Watts and Lynn Addicott, consultant urologist Graham Howell and Jim King, the auctioneer on the night

A NEW group has been formed in Mendip to fundraise for research into the causes and treatment of prostate cancer.

Mendip Prostate Support raised £5,000 from its first event: a dinner and auction of promises at The Mendip Golf Club.

The money was presented to Graham Howell, consultant urologist at Bath’s Royal United Hospital, who attended on behalf of Prostate Cancer UK. The RUH is one of several hospitals which take part in national trials funded by the organisation.

PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

(l:r): Adrian Ambrosini, Tony D’Ovidio, Ben Humber, who is also manager of the Crossways, and Ian Sharpe, present the cheque to air ambulance volunteer Dave Collins at the inn

A SHOOTING syndicate based near Wells has donated £500 to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance after members were fined for various “misdemeanours”.

The Outcasts Club, based at the Crossways Inn at North Wotton, has 30 members who shoot all over the West Country.

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Carers get a break

FIFTEEN young carers from North Somerset, accompanied by four of their support workers from North Somerset Crossroads Young Carers Team, were able to spend time having fun away from their caring responsibilities. The weekend at Goblin Combe was jointly hosted by the Rotary Club and Inner Wheel Club of Wrington Vale.

Open for business

CHARITIES

Brothers run in memory of mum

ANDREW Hogg and his brother Steve, along with some friends, completed a 28mile mountain marathon in memory of their mother who died of ovarian cancer five years ago, by completing the Big Black Mountain Challenge, taking in 15 summits over 660m, in South Wales.

It was a very personal achievement for the brothers whose mother, Margret, raised them alone after their father died – and was a real one off! They were raising money for Overcome, a charity that greatly helped her during her fight with cancer. The charity also reflects Margret’s positive spirit and attitude towards her illness.

Andrew, aged 38 lives with his wife, Emma, aged 31 and daughters, Ellen, aged 13, and Edith, aged six, in Congresbury and has worked for the Bristol Port Company for over 18 years as a crane driver.

Steve, aged 46, lives with his wife Helen, also 46, and their two children Lydia, aged 15, and Matthew, aged 13, in Wrington and is a manager with BT. He is also a very talented musician and wrote a song about his mother when she was fighting cancer ‘Phrase of Angels’ which can be heard on his website http://www.sons-of-art.com/augustine.asp

Michael cuts the ribbon to open SOS Africa’s new base

GLASTONBURY Festival founder Michael Eavis has officially opened a new shop in Shepton Mallet which promotes the work of a local charity.

SOS Africa, which works to provide education for children in a township in South Africa has relocated its existing shop and also moved its offices to the High Street.

G SOS Africa will be repeating its hugely successful Cranmore Tower abseil event in September. This year’s abseils will take place over two weekends: Saturday, September 14th and Sunday, September 15th and Saturday, September 21st and Sunday, September 22nd.

For more information, visit: www.sosafrica.com

Details: http://www.justgiving.com/bigblackm ountainchallenge MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 49

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Railway history – from the air A NEW book gives a wonderful slant on the fondly remembered old Somerset and Dorset Line – this shows what’s left of the railway from the air.

Some parts, and many of the bridges and viaducts, remain remarkably intact, while in many other places the old line has been swallowed by development.

The book has been written by enthusiast Kevin Potts, with aerial photography from Allan Burney and Mark Wagner Aviation Images, with additional colour images from Mark. B. Warburton.

Kevin first spotted the potential for a book on the line, while flying from RNAS Yeovilton. He was based there from January 2007 until May 2010 as commanding officer of the 727 Naval Air Squadron.

The first book covers from Bath to

Evercreech and a second will be published in July from Evercreech Junction to Bournemouth.

Kevin Potts

Wellow PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Tucking Mill

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HISTORY

Shepton Mallet

Radstock in the heyday of steam

Published by Ian Allan Publishing, £25. Details: www.ianallanpublishing.com MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 51

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Page 52

Winscombe May Fair

Railway history

THE Sandford Station Railway Heritage Group have been celebrating the discovery and restoration of the station’s original name board, dating from 1869, when the station was opened on the newly-constructed Cheddar Valley branch line of the Bristol and Exeter Railway – Yatton to Wells.

Pictured ( lto r) are Professor Mick Aston, historian and archaeologist, who lives in Sandford, Trevor Smallwood, president of St. Monica Trust, who unveiled the board, Neville Brenchley, chairman of the heritage centre group (sounding a railwayman’s fog-horn in celebration) and Lee Rowbotham of Classic Ironworks of Banwell who restored the broken board.

Lyn Vandermark

Blagdon celebration

Strawberry Line schools unite

Clare Day (left) and Kay Clarke, manning the brica-brac stall at Blagdon's church and village fete.

TWO North Somerset primary schools in Sandford and Winscombe are now part of the Strawberry Line Federation of schools, united by one governing body led by chairperson Melissa Humphry, with Lin Williams as executive headteacher.

To celebrate the event, the children from both schools walked along the Strawberry Line and hung ‘wishes’ on their newlyplanted federation tree near a commemorative bench and filled a time capsule with their writing about their hopes for the future.

John Penrose, MP attended the ceremony and wished the two schools good luck in their new venture.

PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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Wrington May Day

The Green Man Phil Giorgetti and Laura Leggett, who choreographed all the Maypole dancing

Mendip memories brought to life

EVENTS

The Mendip Mummers performed a version of the West Harptree Mummer’s Play, itself based on a play originating in Cameley.

Father Christmas was played by Martin Horler, of Kilmersdon.

His great, great grandfather, Thomas Compton, played the role in the Cameley version

A CELEBRATION of traditional songs, dance and stories of North Somerset was a sell-out success, say organisers.

The first MendipFest weekend at Emborough’s Old Down Inn included performances by the Bristol Shantymen, Somerset Morris and Priston Jubilee Morris.

There were also presentations looking at North Somerset Mining Songs and the story of Cecil Sharp’s first visit to Mendip – to the Castle of Comfort Inn – and a concert in Emborough Church.

Somerset Morris dancing in the function room; rain put paid to plans to dance outside

Princess of the May, Bronwen Deane

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 53

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Skatepark style

Photography by Mark Adler

WELLS Skatepark has reopened after a £5,000 refurbishment and fundraising is still underway to provide more facilities.

The Mayor of Wells, Maureen Brandon, cut the tape to open the new-look park, which first opened in 2001. The site is owned by the city council, which donated £1,000 towards repairs.

Sharon Haigh, president of the Rotary Club of Wells, chose the skatepark as her charity of the year. Some of the proceeds from last year’s Reindeer Parade went towards the refurbishment. The club has raised £5,000, around £3,000 of which came from last year’s Swans of Wells events.

The project is being supported by Ramp Aid, a Somerset-based not-forprofit organisation which campaigns for better facilities. The aim is to build a new mini-ramp on the back of the main ramp.

Maureen Brandon cuts the tape watched by Sharon Haigh

PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Celebrations at the opening of the refurbished skatepark

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“Red Brick” funding bid

Robin Howell, a trustee of the Red Brick Building, Tessa Munt MP, Matt Hancock MP, Martin Stanley, investor and backer of the RBBC ltd Community Project and Matt Tudor, Head of Business Development at Bridgwater College

THE Government is being asked to support a bid for funding to kick start the development of Phase Two of the Red Brick Building Project in Glastonbury.

A delegation led by Wells MP Tessa Munt met Matthew Hancock MP, a minister in both the Education and Business Departments, to outline the not-for-profit company’s plans to develop a further 17,000 square feet of the derelict factory where apprenticeship opportunities will be given to local young people wanting to embark on a career in the building and construction industries.

In combination with Bridgwater College, the plan is that in effect the building becomes a training project – trainees will not only be part of the construction team but also work in the purchasing department, accounts, budgetary control, administration and management.

Phase One of the Red Brick Building project has successfully been completed thanks to investment from hundreds of individual shareholders and friends in the local Glastonbury and Street area.

The result is a development of more than 13,000 square feet of office space, studios used for craft working, teaching and a community radio station.

Tessa said: “This is a brilliant and original project to bring something to our local young people and our area, I’d really like to see more initiatives like this and I am doing everything I can to help get phase 2 off the ground. The minister agreed that this project was fantastic too which we are all really pleased about.”

NEWS

Precious work in Paulton

Shawn Carr (left), who is refurbishing the room, gets some help from Neil Halford as Clinical Lead Midwife Sheila Wilkins and Nicky Halford (with the couple’s eight-month-old son Tom) look on

A BIRTHING room at Paulton Hospital is being completely refurbished thanks to a local charity.

Time is Precious – set up by Nicky and Neil Halford, of Coleford, in memory of their son Ben – has funded the oneoff project which will make the room in the maternity ward more homely and less clinical.

The completed unit is due to be opened in June by actor Will Thorp, one of the charity’s patrons.

Meanwhile the charity has recently funded a new Oncology Parents’ Room in Bristol Children’s Hospital, which cost around £9,000. The room allows parents and carers of children that are being treated to take a little time out and make themselves a cup of tea or coffee. Neil said: “It is also a chance for them to meet and talk to other families going through the same ordeal, as you feel extremely isolated and alone when going through this as we know from our experience with Ben.”

Bowling for charity

HUTTON Short Mat Bowls Club have held their first charity tournament of the year at Hutton Village Hall, in aid of Children’s Hospice South West, with 16 teams taking part, split into two groups. The winners of each group were Escley from Herefordshire, who were playing at Hutton for the first time, and the Motley Crew, from Somerset. Escley were the eventual winners.

In all, the event raised £900 for the hospice. Robin Lambert, a retired doctor who works with the Hospice presented the trophies. The next charity tournament will be held in September 2013 and information will be available soon on Hutton Short Mat Bowls Club website huttonsmbc.co.uk

The old birthing room before redecoration began

The charity is hosting a netball and 5-a-side tournament on Sunday, June 9th at Writhlington Sports Centre. To enter, visit: www.timeisprecious.org.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 55

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MENDIP TIMES

Partybench at the North Somerset Show NEW business Partybench made a very successful debut at the North Somerset Show on Monday May 6th. Founder, Michael O’Neill and his partner Jane, attended with their new daughter Liberty and were delighted to see their new business being well used.

Partybench provided the bench seating located around the arenas at the show. If you were at the show and found yourself sat watching, then you were sitting on one of the 80 benches that Partybench supplied to the show.

Mike commented: “It was amazing to be given such a big first order for the company. Our benches were spaced every 10 yards or so around every arena and they were being fully used. When I founded Partybench, I wanted to supply tables and benches to small events people hold at home or in public spaces like BBQs, birthday parties, anniversaries and family get-togethers.

“In fact any event where table and seating requirements are often forgotten and a ‘make do’ attitude prevails. We didn’t expect to be doing such a large commercial event so soon and everyone seemed to like them.”

The idea for the business stemmed from attending a friend’s wedding in Germany, where Mike helped to clear up after the event including the packing away of the tables and benches. He said: “I was instantly struck by the simple design, how they folded flat in one easy movement and stacked on themselves to save space.

“I wondered why we didn’t have them back home. From there, the idea grew. My thought process went something like this: more

A party isn’t a party without . . .

ADVERTISING FEATURE

people are entertaining at home or arranging their own events as going out becomes more expensive. That leads to the age-old problem of not having enough seating when friends come round.

Answer: Partybench.

“I know of nobody that currently provides this kind of service, I will deliver robust tables and benches to your event, whether it be a picnic in the park, a birthday, a wedding, a christening or a family BBQ. Each set (a table and two benches) can seat up to ten and can be rented at £10 for 24hrs, £5 for each subsequent day.

“I can do cash on delivery and deliver anywhere, although if you want to save on the delivery cost, you can pick up yourself. I also have trailers for hire that can carry 10 sets (enough to seat 100 people) that can be towed by any vehicle with a tow-bar – kind of a take away party kit.”

So if you are planning an event this year, maybe you should consider Partybench.

Telephone 01761 568 046 or 07766 883 037

Quality Table And Bench Hire For Every Event, For Everyone, Everywhere.

is the brilliantly simple, affordable new way to hire furniture for events. Whether it’s a kids’ party for ten, a wedding for 200, a food festival, a corporate event or a family BBQ . . . you are only a call away from getting the seating sorted for all your events this summer . . .

table and bench set; one table and two benches, flexible and durable seats 8 with ease, 10 if you squeeze

Costs just £10 to hire plus £1 per mile delivery from your local operator

Partybench Ltd, 2 Meadgate, Camerton, Bath BA2 0NL

PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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WILDLIFE

THOUGH small and slightly dull in appearance the little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis), or dabchick, is a fascinating little bird

By CHRIS and very endearing to SPERRING watch.

MBE They can be found on ponds and lakes across the Somerset Levels and on Mendip, preferring water with plenty of reeds and other bankside vegetation in which they can hide. They are quite shy by nature and can be easily overlooked.

Measuring just 29cm in length they are the smallest member of the grebe family in Europe and far more inconspicuous than some of their larger relations like the great crested grebe, which is much more obvious in both plumage and nature.

Little grebes are typical diving birds, superbly adapted to fast underwater pursuit. Their legs are set at the very back of their body forming a superb propeller and rudder system, but making them very ungainly when trying to walk on land.

To aid waterproofing the little grebe has dense feathering and the plumage varies according to the seasons. In summer the adult little grebe is very dark and from a distance may appear black, but on closer inspection it actually has a dark copper neck, black cap, and dark grey underside. Non-breeding and juvenile birds are lighter in appearance and with a more yellow bill, as opposed to the dark bill of the breeding bird.

Its diving skills are chiefly used to hunt prey, including crustaceans and small fish, but can also be used to evade predators and disappear quickly when it feels threatened. Because it feeds on much smaller fish than many of the larger diving birds such as cormorants or great crested grebes, they can be found on much smaller ponds.

On larger ponds and lakes there may be more than one pair and males will fight ferociously for territory and females. These battles begin with highspeed chasing and splashing, but

A little grebe

sometimes escalate to full fights where the males rise out of the water chest-tochest and kick and stab at each other with their beaks.

Nesting can start as early as March, when a platform is built using reeds and other vegetation. Four to six eggs are laid and, as with all water birds, incubation begins when the full clutch has been laid. This ensures all chicks hatch together and are ready to leave the nest almost immediately. Both parents take turn incubating the eggs, and will also make constant repairs to the nest platform, so watch out for adults carrying vegetation in its beak.

The eggs hatch after about 21 days and, although the chicks are able to swim and take to the water straight away, they spend a lot of time riding on the parents’ backs. This helps keep them dry and warm and gives them a chance for a rest.

Sometimes the parent will dive whilst the chicks are still on board, but the chicks are incredibly buoyant when young and just float safely to the surface.

To begin with, the young will be fed on invertebrates from in and around the water, and as they grow the parents are able to feed them on larger prey like small fish. They grow quickly and can be independent at around four weeks of age, leaving the parents free to start again with another brood. It is even possible to see them with young as late as September.

Photography by Chris Sperring

Fun to watch – if you can spot one!

The breeding range of the little grebe extends across central and southern Europe, almost as far north as the Arctic Circle, but birds that breed in the northern part of the range will migrate south for the winter to escape the harshest conditions there.

Although they stay with us all year round and are therefore classed as a resident bird, they often move to the coast and estuaries during the winter, where the water doesn’t freeze and prey can be easier to find.

Watching little grebes can be fun and a real test of your stealth capabilities.

Watching from a hide is much easier, of course, and hides are well placed on the many wetland nature reserves on the Somerset Levels, where you can enjoy these and many other fascinating species without any fear of disturbing them.

G On Thursday, June 6th I will be leading a special nocturnal walk on the Mendip Hills, in search of the nightjar.

This is a fundraising event for south west projects of the Hawk and Owl Trust and, as well as watching and learning about the fascinating nightjars, there will be other wildlife to observe and there will also be opportunity to test low-light cameras and other equipment courtesy of Lakeside Optics. The charge for this event is £15 and is limited to 15 people.

For more information and bookings, please contact Mark or Phillip at Lakeside Optics on 01275 332042.

Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him on 01275 849287 or via chris.sperring@btinternet.com

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 57

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MENDIP TIMES

Choose this Chew circle “ONWARDS and upwards” was the comment of a customer at the Druids Arms Stanton Drew as I left to finish this circular walk. “Not so much of the upwards,” was my reply. And it is true.

This choice ramble from Chew Magna through the glorious countryside around is reasonably flat, but offers wonderful widespread views, including some of Maes Knoll fort and takes in the Standing Stones at Stanton Drew.

It is 6.7 miles following the Three Peaks Walk, then the Community Forest Path and finally the Two Rivers Way, crossing and walking alongside the Chew.

There is now a great pub stop at Stanton Drew after a recent refurbishment, with a new landlord. The only hill of any note is the one out of Chew Magna near the start.

There are mainly kissing gates and few stiles and so it is good for dogs. En-route there are several good picnic spots.

PARK: Somewhere suitable in Chew Magna. There is a public car park behind the Pelican in the High Street but it may be full. If not cross the road and park somewhere down the back of the church near the Queen’s Arms pub.

START: At St Andrew’s Church. From the High Street go through the churchyard, staying over to the left and coming out in Silver Street at the back.

Turn right. When the road bends left, continue straight on into North Chew Terrace and pass the Queen’s Arms. Then go left and cross a footbridge over the Chew and keep straight on in North Chew Terrace. Reach a T-junction and turn left and shortly leave houses behind.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Pass playing fields set back on the right.

Ignore a footpath left.

1. STILE Stay on the lane and soon, a yard or two round a right bend, go over a stile left on the marked footpath, going up steps through a kissing gate. This is the Three Peaks Walk, a circle of 16.5 miles going over the peaks of Maes Knoll, Knowle Hill and Blackberry Hill.

Cross the field, climbing quite steeply, and you are soon rewarded with good views back over Chew Magna. Go through a kissing gate and follow the path along the bottom of a field. The path forks – stay to the right out of the dip and carry on. The path is definitely single file and climbs really gently. Further on the path forks again – go left. Don’t go ahead and up. Go along parallel with the hedge and then left through a gate in the hedge marked as the Three Peaks Way. Cross to the far hedge and turn right following the hedge on your left. Ignore a path left.

Continue to follow the hedge to the end (there is a large barn over on the left which you may see) and then go across to a stile and footbridge ahead. Once over, cross the large field to the far left corner and find another footpath marker. Go through a Bristol Gate (a large metal gate with a pedestrian gate built in) and on.

Go through a gate on the right and head over to the pond.

2. POND Go across the right hand end of the pond and on through roughish ground, with a large farm barn up left. Soon find a marked kissing gate on the right. Head across the field to the other side near a bend in the hedge and go left on the marked Three Peaks Way over a footbridge and turn right in the field

heading towards the right of cottages.

Ahead you can see a road signpost. Go through a kissing gate onto the lane. Turn right and after a very few yards turn right again onto the Community Forest Path.

3. COMMUNITY FOREST PATH This is a route around Bristol using footpaths, tracks and some sections of rural lanes providing a variety of landscapes. It links up with the Two Rivers Way and other established paths.

Follow the left edge and go through a kissing gate and follow the stream on your left. Now simply continue through fields and over footbridges keeping the stream on your left. Look for a footbridge on the left. Cross this and then continue on still following the stream on your left.

Reach a footbridge over a larger section of the stream and continue on a path going through an area of grass and bushes. Go through another kissing gate and then continue to the lane in Norton Hawkfield.

4. NORTON HAWKFIELD Cross onto the stony track opposite past cottages. This becomes Tarmac and leads to another lane. Turn left and, very shortly, make sure you don’t miss a kissing gate on the right marked with the Community Path arrow taking you through a farm. Go straight on past Park Farmhouse and bear right through a large metal gate and up a track. Continue on the track along the edge of a field with good views over this beautiful part of the countryside so close to Bristol. Pass a well-sited seat ideal for a picnic. Just past this the path bends left with the fence and passes another bench. You get some good views across to Maes Knoll, an Iron Age hillfort and the start of the ancient Wansdyke. During World War II, the flat

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WALKING

area was dotted with stone cairns to deter the landing of enemy gliders to invade Bristol.

Carry on and go through a kissing gate.

Then bear right on the Community Forest Path dropping down under horse chestnuts. Go through a gate and turn right on a track and follow this into Norton Malreward.

5. NORTON MALREWARD There seem to be several suggestions for the strange name of this village, but perhaps the most straightforward is that Norton Malreward is listed as Nortone in the Domesday Book of 1086 meaning ‘The north enclosure’ from the Old English norp and tun. Malreward is a corruption of Malregard who was a tenant of the Bishop of Coutances in 1238.

Turn left on the lane. Opposite Chalk Farm Close, go right up steps on a marked path into a field and turn left heading for the church. Go through a kissing gate and continue on to come out onto a track just

by Holy Trinity church.

To visit this beautiful little church which has a stunning Norman chancel arch, go left. There is a history of the church and village inside with another much more imaginative reason for the village’s name!

To continue our walk, go right on the track through a gate. This next section gives good opportunity for striding out.

Cross an airstrip en-route. Continue on to the far side of the field and join a stony track.

6. STONY TRACK This drops quite steeply downhill and requires some care on the stones. Reach a road. Go left a few yards and then cross onto the Community Forest Path on the right. Go right along the hedge, and through a kissing gate. Turn left downhill.

Get a good view of Pensford Viaduct over on the left. At the foot of the field go through another gate and turn right across the field to go through the hedgeline and continue on the Community Forest Path past a house to a lane. Turn left soon coming to an area known as Byemills on the River Chew.

7. BYEMILLS Curve round left over the Chew by a sluice and follow the track to the right of a house. Cross the river again and turn right through a kissing gate. You have joined the Two Rivers Way, a route from the River Yeo in Congresbury to Keynsham on the Avon. Keep the Chew

OS Explorer, 155 Bristol West & Bath, grid ref: 578632 6.7 miles, about 4 hours walking.

on your right following the way through fields (at one point there are two metal gates ahead – take the left one which has a small walkers’ gate at the side). Follow the hedge ahead on your right and reach a lane.

8. LANE Cross and follow the Forest Path in the field bearing right and coming out onto the lane further up. Go straight over. Pass an area of what looks like market gardens and bend round left at the end and go right through a kissing gate and head in the direction of Stanton Drew Church ahead. Go through another gate and head up the field to a gate in the top corner. Go through and continue ahead on a concrete track. Over on the right in the field are the famous Stone Circles. The official entrance is further on. Follow the track out through a farm (the church is up left).

Turn right.

9. STONE CIRCLES To go and see the Stones, turn right again and then left past houses. (There is a small entry charge). The largest stone circle is the Great Circle, the second largest stone circle in Britain (after Avebury). It is considered to be one of the largest and most impressive Neolithic monuments to have been built. The Great Circle probably consisted of 30 stones, of which 27 survive today. There is a North East Circle and a South West Circle. A geophysical survey by English Heritage in 1997 revealed evidence of a huge pattern of rings, ditches and posts below ground which considerably elevated the importance of this Neolithic site.

To continue our route, bear left across

to the principal road in Stanton Drew.

Turn left. Soon reach a chapel where we go right on Sandy Lane, but it is worth going on for a minute to the Druid’s Arms, a fine country pub, recently well renovated. It has a great atmosphere with tasty good value food. In the pub garden is another set of ancient stones known as The Cove which are thought to be about 1,000 years older than the stone circle and may be the portals of a chambered tomb.

10. SANDY LANE Follow this lane past houses and then continue on the hedged track. Ignore side paths. Eventually drop down and bend to the right, ignoring paths coming in left.

11. FOOTBRIDGE Soon cross a footbridge over a tributary of the Chew left and immediately go uphill up a field path. At the top go through a gate and follow the field edge on the right, going round a corner and coming above the Chew. Drop down, bend right still alongside the river, joining another track. Go over a stile by a Bristol Gate and enter a field through a kissing gate. Go across to the road on the edge of Chew Magna.

12. CHEW COURT Cross carefully and go up the drive of Chew Court. At the end go to the right of the main house following the track and bend round. Go on into the churchyard and find your way back to where you started.

The Druids Arms, Stanton Drew, open daily. Tel: 01275 332230.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 59

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MENDIP TIMES

Raising a glass to the beauty of Mendip

I AM always telling people that what I do to earn my living isn’t like a real job. I have no set hours and work for as long or as short a time as I need With LES without having to DAVIES MBE justify myself to any management regime or comply to any ‘political’ whim.

The direction my business takes is entirely up to me and I will not earn unless I work. I am the master of my own destiny, prosper by my own effort and will even wear a pink shirt if the mood takes me – but above all I really enjoy what I do!

For all of that there are times when life is very busy, but as to whether that activity is earning any great amount of money, may at times be questionable. Every once in a while even I need time to look around and lean on the gate, take time to stand and stare in solitude and contentment. We don’t do enough of this meditation and often stand accused of ‘day dreaming’ or having a lack of concentration.

Not paying attention was one of those school crimes that I was often guilty of, when my head was elsewhere, far away

from the classroom and roaming the woods and fields at home.

I stopped recently at the top of Burrington Combe and followed my feet up the stony track on to ‘Ham’. It was one of those wonderful evenings when the sun shone but the wind had just enough bite in it to make me turn the collar of my coat up in an attempt to stay warm, (and even look cool). I stuffed my hands into the slit pockets of my Barbour and pulled the cap down a little further onto my head.

I had not intended to go far or to stay for long, but there was something that was pulling me further and further from the car park. In one of those ‘looking out of the window‘ modes I wandered onto the edge of the Combe where the goats grazed quite content below me and the traffic wound its way up the twisting road that was once the river bed of this Triassic Wadi. Finding a place to sit comfortably I looked around.

In the tight grass sward about me were birds foot trefoil; salad burnet; plantains and a sprinkling of dog violet. There were a few small early purple orchids on the warm south slope below my feet and yellow rock rose and wild strawberry to either side. In a very short while I had identified eight species of plants without

My name is Leanne I’m a big Thatcher’s fan so give me a pint to begin, I will make you all laugh on just one whole glass, I’m sure that I will fit in I am placid and very well mannered, thoughtful, helpful and keen I look forward to this working relationship as I become part of the team Here’s a little about myself to give you some background Although I won’t mention anything about my naughty little hound!

1984 was the year that I was born, Little did I know of what my future had in store When I started school, I was barely 5, Dressed in red and grey, a tiny 3ft high Naïve and very quiet, I skipped along with grace Back then I didn’t know the life I would embrace 1996 that’s when it all began to change, Secondary school approached and life felt a little out of place Many friendships were made, lots of happy times were had, It’s true what they say, enjoy school while you can It was soon the year 2001 when important decisions were made, Of where I would like to be and the dreams I would like to chase Many of you will know that I had my daughter young, I’m proud to say that those tough times have been overcome I married a sweet 4 years ago and now I have my 2 point 4 After caring for my father for some time, I have opened a new door A new chapter has begun and at Thatcher’s I’m sure I’ll Flourish I look forward to making friendships that in time I will truly cherish Many thanks for your listening, lets enjoy the day, the future is looking bright Here’s to Thatcher’s Hooray!

OUTDOORS

including the trees, bluebells and bracken that were growing behind me.

Across the Combe the trees were still in varied stages of leaf. This is the middle of May and some trees are still only just waking up, so late is the season. The beech have the lovely pale green leaf but ash and oak lag behind somewhat. On the slopes of Black Down the ponies grazed, this was a landscape of tranquillity within world of frustration and stress. For me it was quite wonderful to take the time to sit and stare, there was no rush and I didn’t have a train to catch or a meeting to be at. Perhaps that had been the ‘pull’ I had felt earlier, the need to stop and take a look around. We should all do it more often.

Inspiration in life can come from any direction. I have been inspired by many people I have met and lots of things that I have seen. Inspiration can come from friends and family or from other people struggling to deal with problems and health issues. It can also come from ordinary people who have overcome great challenges that have forever changed their lives and their outlook on life.

One such inspirational person I met recently is an ordinary young woman working for a local business where she has found happiness and a reason for being.

Leanne works for Thatcher’s Cider and was on a recent brand awareness training day that I helped out with, and she won the presentation part of the day with a poem about her life that I thought others might like to share (see opposite).

And finally come and see me on the Environmental Youth Awards stand below the main ring commentary box if you are at the Royal Bath and West Show. Last month’s photo was taken on the West Mendip Way in Cheddar, but which property is the mythical beast guarding in this month’s photo?

I’m always happy to hear from you, so drop me a line at Les.Davies@westcountryman.org.uk PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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YEO VALLEY

Sunny spells bring visitors to Yeo Valley

THE recent sunny spells have been a welcome sight for our farm team here at Holt Farms.

The silage, which we use to feed our

By TOM DE Pedigree British PASS Friesian herd through the winter months, is likely to be at least three or four weeks late so we will be cutting the grass in mid June rather than mid May. But with the sun and intermittent rain showers, the grass and crops (like our spring barley) have sprung into life.

We have already welcomed nearly 2,000 visitors to the Yeo Valley Organic Garden this season.

Our Plant Fair on Sunday 5th May was a huge success. It was a glorious day with wall to wall sunshine. Twelve traders were selling their wares with a mix of herbaceous, perennial and bedding plants for sale and a craftsman

from the Somerset Levels demonstrated how to make garden structures out of willow.

With over 1,300 sun kissed bodies to feed we sold out of cakes, scones, ice cream and honey. We hope that many of the visitors will return later in the season to see how the garden has developed.

We have also been hosting some exciting visitors just up the hill at our refurbished Yeo Valley HQ. Smith & Williamson, one of the largest accountancy firms in the country, chose us to host their ‘Future in Food Conference’ last month. The event brought together over 70 business leaders from the food, drink and agriculture sectors to address a range of issues facing businesses across the supply chain.

Yeo Valley’s Finance and Procurement Director, Karl Tucker, was one of the keynote speakers at the event, giving a presentation on the topic –

‘Sustainability – can it last forever?’

Karl talked about Yeo Valley’s journey of sustainability – ‘doing the right thing’ as we call it. We have been working in this way since Roger and Mary Mead first began producing yogurt in Blagdon in 1972.

Karl suggested that ‘sustainability’ will only be sustainable in the long term if we have a holistic approach which encompasses the whole of the supply chain, from farmers and manufacturers right through to the consumer. He concluded that sustainability needs to be part of a business’ DNA; it has to come from the top and become part of the culture which is what we have instilled at Yeo Valley.

Paul Waller from Smith & Williamson organised the event, he said: ‘Yeo Valley HQ provided the perfect venue for our conference, with easy access, plenty of parking, excellent conference facilities, helpful staff and great food.

The view is pretty good as well!’

If you would like to arrange a meeting, conference or team away day, find out more at www.yeovalleyspaces.co.uk or call us on 01761 463366.

DON’T forget we’ve still got plenty for you to see and do as part of our Yeoniversity. Our ‘Farm Adventure’ and ‘Food and Garden’ Tours are already underway with dates spanning right through until the autumn. Get yourself signed up quick so you don’t miss out!

Our series of garden lectures raising funds for the Southern Spinal Injuries Trust are also continuing on the 21st June with a talk from Cleve West – ‘From Spuds to Chelsea, and Back Again’. For more information or to

book tickets visit www.ssit.org.uk. Also coming up this month: • • • • •

Food and Garden Tour – Tuesday 4th June Art Classes in the Garden – Thursday 6th June Farm Adventure Tour – Friday 7th June Food and Garden Tour – Tuesday 18th June ‘From Spuds to Chelsea, and Back Again’ with Cleve West – Friday 21st June

For more information or to book tickets visit www.yeovalley.co.uk

Tom de Pass is head of communications and events at Yeo Valley, a family-owned farming and dairy processing business based in Blagdon, and will be bringing us a monthly report on their activities. The Holt Farms organic farming operation has 1250 acres on the Mendip Hills and in the Yeo Valley beside Blagdon Lake. www.yeovalley.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 61

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Spring into summer

THE transition from spring to summer in the garden is often a somewhat messy one.

We are left with the aftermath of bulb foliage amidst an With MARY eruption from PAYNE MBE herbaceous perennials all eager to stake their claim to a piece of soil.

However messy the bulb leaves may look, it is important not to chop off or pull up, or worst of all, tie them in knots.

Pull off the dead flower heads to encourage the bulb to develop instead of making seed. The leaves must have the chance to replenish the bulb for next year, so allow them at least six to eight weeks after flowering before taking your revenge.

Indeed, they would benefit from a sprinkling of sulphate of potash around each clump, or a liquid feed with tomato feed. It is debatable whether it is worth leaving tulips in the ground at all, as they often do not flower well again the next year. It all depends on the variety, your soil, and the weather. To ensure a good display they are best replaced annually.

The popularity of alliums is certainly based on their flower heads and certainly not on their foliage. By the time they come into flower the foliage has gone floppy and the tips are often brown. Once the flower head is well developed I must admit that I cut off the leaves and it appears to make no difference to next year’s display, probably because the leaves have been up and working for some time before they flower.

The next dilemma faced by gardeners is when to pull out the so called “spring bedding” that was planted in the autumn, to make way for the “summer bedding” that is planted in late spring! This year,

due to that horrid cold east wind, everything was delayed and the wallflowers were looking in their prime when the summer bedding plants were ready to go out.

Most domestic gardeners do not do mass bedding displays such as those we see done by the parks departments, these are costly and very labour intensive.

More often a few pots are filled with summer colour to be positioned strategically around the garden, thus making watering more difficult. Try grouping a few pots together in one area; the effect will be better, and it makes watering easier.

Spring flowering shrubs, such as forsythia, winter flowering honeysuckle and flowering currant can all be pruned once they have finished flowering.

Simply cut out approximately one third of the bush, removing the oldest stems as near to the ground as possible. This opens up the bush and allows new growth to develop and ripen to flower next year. The rampant Clematis montana can be cut back as soon as it has finished flowering, leaving it all summer to make new growth that in turn will flower next spring.

One of my least favourite spring jobs is staking herbaceous perennials. It is far better to do this job before they flop over than to try to reclaim bent stems. The purists will use a ring of hazel twigs pushed in around each clump and the tops are bent inwards creating a twiggy cage which vanishes as the clump grows. In the absence of a supply of hazel twigs I find the metal half-circles on two legs the easiest to cope with.

You can either use two halves to create a circle or simply use one half circle and a piece of string across the back. Bamboo canes are best avoided as there are too many accidents to gardeners involving

NGS Garden Weekend

THE National Gardens Scheme is holding a National Gardens Weekend on June 16th and 17th and is set to be the largest garden visiting event in history, with 800 openings planned nationally over the two days. The festival aims to raise £500,000 for nursing and caring charities, including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Carers Trust.

Twenty eight gardens in the Somerset, Bristol, Bath and South Gloucestershire areas will be open so there is bound to be one near you. Visit a garden to get ideas PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Staking with twigs

eyes. For tall plants, such as delphiniums, bamboo is possibly the only option, but in this case each individual spike of flower is often staked so that the cane is close to the stem and less of a hazard.

Early flowering perennials, especially oriental poppies, are welcome to bridge the gap between spring and summer, but go over early leaving an unsightly gap in a border. This can be filled, in true Christopher Lloyd style, with a dahlia, canna or even some gladiolus for later flowering.

After the wet summer last year the slugs and snails multiplied, and so will be back this year intent on devouring your plants. These voracious feeders are particularly attracted to newly planted plants. The damage caused during planting must release some smell that draws them in. The slug pellets based on ferrous phosphate have been proved to be just as effective as the metaldehyde based ones but are totally safe for pets, children and wildlife. The slugs and snails eat the pellets, stop feeding on your plants, and wander off to die out of sight.

Let’s hope that May passed without any frosts. The magnolias survived almost, but not quite, unscathed this year. Next it is the turn of the wisterias to run the gauntlet of Jack Frost.

and inspiration for your own, however large or small.

Some gardens may have special activities taking place, such as art and sculpture collections on display, or live music.

Enjoy tea and cakes and the company of other likeminded enthusiasts whilst raising funds for the various charities supported by the NGS. To find a garden to visit either pick up a county leaflet from your nearest garden centre or library or visit the NGS website www.ngs.org and pop in your postcode.

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JUNE GARDEN TIPS

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

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

Basil will prefer a very sheltered spot, I grow mine in the greenhouse between my tomatoes and a few leaves can be gathered to go with the tomatoes as I pick them.

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

G Most herbs will benefit from being cut fairly hard now. The young shoot tips are generally the tastiest parts to use in cooking.

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

G A late sowing of parsley can still be made and, even if you don’t have a veg. patch, curled parsley will not look out of place in the flower border!

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

G First early potatoes should be ready for lifting now! If there are flowers showing and the leaves are starting to go yellow, that’s a sure sign that there are big enough tubers underneath to lift. Take them straight to the kitchen, boil them with a spring of fresh mint and serve with lashings of butter!

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

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

PERFECT PAVE LTD Patios Block Paving Driveways

t: 01934 740163

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Blooming Cheddar

THE Cheddar in Bloom garden competition will be held on Thursday, June 27th and entries are now being invited, with entry forms available from CostCutters Petrol Station in Tweentown, Woodbury Insurance Brokers in Bath Street or from Cheddar Library.

Judging takes place between 9.30am and 5pm, your garden is not open to all-comers and you are not expected to put on cream teas! There are three experienced judges and three stewards who will visit for a maximum of 30 minutes.

Organisers say: “That’s it! It cost nothing this year to enter, we simply want to get Cheddar looking its best!”

75 Greenhill Road, Sandford, Winscombe, North Somerset BS25 5PA

TEL: 01934 852151 www.gabgardenmachinery.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 63

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Plant sales are popular

MAY is the time when local plant sales begin in earnest, mostly involving local gardening clubs, but with a few being held in aid of charity. One sale was held at Chelwood, at the home of Mr and Mrs Peter Jones, along with cakes, bric-a-brac, books and preserves. Picture 1 shows Mr Jones with Wendy Crowley (left) and Christine Godfrey. The money raised was for St. Leonard’s Church in Chelwood.

Compton Martin Gardening Club’s annual plant sale was well supported; picture 2 and 3 show Callie Marks (left) selling plants to Diane Hooper and Liz Dagger and former committee member Pam Pockson manning the stall.

At Blagdon the local WI’s plant sale and ploughman’s lunch drew the visitors. Picture 4 shows Dorothy Woodman and Win Gould selling a few plants to Karen Burchill.

Winford Amateur Gardening Society’s annual plant sale also did well with preserves, produce and bakes also on sale. The society committee lined up for a photo in the break, picture 5 shows left to right) Jo Edmonds, Elizabeth Parker, Diana Leech, Alan Parker, Beryl and Alfie Gillett, Annette Webb and the society’s “ most loyal supporter” Peter Ball.

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Drought tolerant plants

WHILE the current weather patterns do not immediately make us think about the use of drought tolerant planting schemes, the emergence of hanging baskets outside houses, pubs and shops should certainly inspire us to plan displays that do not depend so heavily on the daily watering regime that most hanging baskets demand.

Drought resistant plants often have grey-green, or silver leaves that help to reflect the sun and sometimes have fine hairs helping them to trap moisture close to the plant.

Alchemilla, Lavender, Sedum spectabile and Stachys byzantine are good examples of these, and others include Astrantia, Cosmos and Lathyrus latifolius.

All of these plants can create a stunning look in dry beds, but can also be considered as fantastic container, window box and hanging basket plants. Add the flowers and architectural forms of Allium and Sisyrinchium, or grasses such as Stipa tenuissima and we could create some outstanding and unusual displays.

Of course, many of these plants require more root space than the conventional choice of annuals and subsequently the number of plants in each container may be limited. However, some careful planning, choosing the largest baskets and pots possible, and using the best quality compost can create displays that will allow us to go away for a few days without the risk of losing everything in the event of a heat wave.

Details: Alistair Barlow, Lowarth Garden Design, a Mendip based garden design and landscaping company.

Lowarth Garden and Landscape Design Chelsea Flower Show Silver Gilt medal winner

< Beautiful, practical gardens < Inspiring planting < High quality hard landscaping < Treehouses and other structures < We aim to exceed your

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expectations Please contact us to arrange a free consultation Alistair Barlow Mobile: 07971 264261 Tel: 01373 812031 Website: www.lowarth.com

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

Professional Tree Surgeons and Consultants 01761 241871 info@alltree.co.uk www.alltree.co.uk

Building Supplies Ltd. www.crsbuildingsupplies.co.uk email: info@crsbuildingsupplies.co.uk

Bevelled-edge slabs are £1.85 each plus VAT

Riven Slabs are £1.99 each Canterra Flags are £2.75 each

plus VAT

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Prices are for 400 x 400 x 40mm

FREE local delivery CHEDDAR Evans Business Park, Draycot Road, Cheddar BS27 3RU 01934 744455 WELLS Cherry Orchard, Ask Lane, Wells BA5 2LS 01749 685290 YEOVIL The Globe, Lutton Way, Yeovil BA22 8HR 01935 383280 HIGHBRIDGE Unit 1 Evercreech Way, Walrow Ind Est, Highbridge, TA9 4AN 01278 773300 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 65

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The first ever national gardens festival weekend takes part in June.

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Overbrook Cottage

Wedmore Gardens

YOU enter the garden of Overbrook Cottage, Cocklake, near Wedmore by a gate at the side of the property, with no view of what to expect. Then as you turn right on to the south-facing terrace, structure and colour unfold. Though not a large garden it is necessary to walk the gravel paths to see the planting, which was the original intention when the garden plan was first pegged out, then the lawn dug up and developed in 1998.

NGS opening details: Saturday, June 15th and Sunday, June 16th, 11am - 6pm.

Visitors also welcome by appointment throughout June and July.

Maximum 3 vehicles, if more please consult. 15 people maximum.

Admission: £2.50, child free.

Contact Information: Margaret Castle 01934 712420 or email: m.castle105@btinternet.com

THE gardens of Wedmore are mostly secret gardens, hidden behind walls and hedges but on the weekend of June 15th and 16th five of these gardens will be opening to the public in the afternoon, many for the first time.

There is a fine tradition of gardening in the village and in 2009 and 2010 Wedmore won Gold Awards in both South West in Bloom and Britain in Bloom.

Of the five gardens open, three are in the centre of the village with the others a short walk away. Each has its individual character with one having evolved over 50 years from “twigs and cuttings from friends, relatives and village plants sales” giving a feeling of calm tranquillity with many nooks and crannies. Two are “retirement gardens” created for maximum enjoyment with minimum effort and plenty of places to sit and relax. Two have greenhouses, vegetables and fruit and all have a wealth of colourful plants and shrubs skilfully arranged to create peaceful havens in our busy world.

NGS opening details: Saturday, June 15th and Sunday, June 16th, from 2pm-6pm.

Admission: Combined entry £5 children free.

Contact Information: Anne Blandford anne@blandford.me.uk

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

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

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

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

PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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GARDENING

Weston Garden Machinery

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Tel: 01934 813261 www.westongarden.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 67

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Stumped? Call in the experts

Tree Stump removal and Stump Grinding Services throughout the South West

See our website at www.groundlevelcontractors.co.uk or e-mail us at info@groundlevelcontractors.co.uk Prefer to talk to us?

Tel: 01934 710135 • Mob: 07799 014639

Flagstones, Cobbles, Copings and Setts Sandstone, Limestone, Granite, Slate and Travertine.

GROUND Level Contractors offer stump grinding and tree stump removal services throughout the South West of England.

Based near Wells in Somerset, they are well placed to cover Somerset, Devon, Dorset, Wiltshire and beyond.

Their operatives are fully trained, insured and equipped with some of the most capable and versatile machinery available and they are committed to delivering a reliable, competitive and professional service throughout the region.

Call or email them to discuss your tree stump removal requirements and they will be happy to arrange a no obligation quotation and site survey as required.

Rodney Stoke open gardens

CLEVE West, the seven-times RHS Gold Medal-winning landscape designer will be the special guest at the Rodney Stoke open gardens event on Sunday, July 7th.

The seven gardens will be open from 2pm to 5pm. The admission fee will be £3.50 and cream teas will be served at Anchorage House with all funds being donated to Save the Children and Cleve West will open the gar- the village church of St Leonard’s.

Cleve is not only the author of dens event at Rodney Stoke “Our Plot”, a well-reviewed book of his 10 years developing an allotment, but he has also won the BBC/RHS “People's Choice” at the Chelsea Flower show in 2008 and the coveted “Best in Show” award in 2011 and 2012. So there is no pressure on the Rodney Stoke residents who will be opening their gardens to the public!

Off-street parking will be available at Brangay Farm which will be signposted off the A371 Wells to Cheddar road at the Rodney Stoke Inn. Complimentary travel by classic car from the car park to gardens will be made available on request to those who find walking difficult.

The village church will be open as usual. But during the event visitors will also be able to climb the church tower to admire the magnificent views of Mendip and the Somerset Levels.

For more information on the church visit www.stleonardsrodneystoke.org

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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Young shoots are blooming

Mark Gibbens (left) from Dobbies with Naomi, Yvonne and Angie and some of the Krafty Kids

YOUNGSTERS who attend Shepton Mallet Children’s Centre are learning how to become green-fingered.

Two mums have launched a new group session called Krafty Kids which aims to show children - and other parents - how much fun gardening can be and that plants, fruit and vegetables can be grown easily.

Yvonne Caffey and Naomi Wellman are amongst the parents who use the centre, which is funded by Somerset County Council and based at Shepton Mallet Infants School. Dobbies Garden Centre has donated plants and materials towards the project. Krafty Kids also use recycled products such as plastic bottles which are turned into planters and youngsters are encouraged to paint recycled stones to be used in garden borders.

Yvonne said: “We thought it would be a good idea to get the kids and parents involved and show them that it’s not that hard to grow things.”

Children’s Centre manager Angie Baxter said: “It’s great to have volunteers among the parents we support and they’ve done a great job in organising this garden project.”

Naomi (left) with Hazel, Yvonne, with Reuben, and Mark Gibbens from Dobbies

setting the standard for ornamental stonework Come to our showroom in Glastonbury for a truly outstanding range of Garden Stonework including waterfeatures, statues, many small ornaments, gargoyles, seating and much more.

Delivery no problem Tor Stone, Tor View, Edgarley, near Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8LE

Tel 01458 834320 www.torstone.com

also at CLARKS VILLAGE, STREET. Open 7 days. Tel: 01458 440500

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

WORKSHOPS/GARAGES GARDEN SHEDS SHELTERS & STABLES PLAYHOUSES Let our dedicated team assist you in your choice whatever your budget . . . Full design, installation and delivery service available – customise your shed to suit your needs

We also do: Chicken Houses Dog Kennels • Bin & Log Stores YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT US AND SEE OUR SHOW MODELS – OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

THE TIMBERYARD • SHUTE SHELVE • CROSS • NEAR AXBRIDGE Tel: 01934 732 396 • www.timberworkbuildings.co.uk e.mail: timberbuildings@aol.com

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 69

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Stowey Quarry needs you again . . .

IN April, Stowey Quarry owners Matrix Movements appealed against Bath & North East Somerset Council’s unanimous (14-0) decision to reject its application to dump hazardous waste (including asbestos) in the quarry. So the fearless Stowey Sutton Action Group (SSAG) is now supporting BANES and preparing our own evidence for a public inquiry, likely to be heard in the autumn, alongside

By Dr PHIL representations from the council defending their entirely HAMMOND sensible planning refusal.

The council’s refusal decision in September was made as the company had not “demonstrated that this is an appropriate location for the disposal of the nonasbestos stable non-reactive hazardous waste due to insufficient information being provided on the risk of leachate to the groundwater and any adverse effects on the water and ecology interests of the Chew Valley lake”.

It had previously been granted permission to dump 645,000 tonnes of stable non-reactive hazardous waste (including asbestos) in Stowey Quarry, only for it to be quashed in December 2011 after the threat of a judicial review. The resubmission failed because of a woefully inadequate environmental assessment of the threat to the Chew Valley Lake’s water resource, the unacceptable impact of 100 lorries a day travelling throughout the villages of the Chew Valley to reach the site, the noise and dust pollution and the threat to the environment and local wildlife including the endangered White Clawed Crayfish species which has been identified nearby.

Bristol Water, owner of the nearby lake we all drink from, objected to the “technically flawed” plans, saying: “Bristol Water considers that the use of Stowey Quarry as a waste disposal site is inappropriate and represents a risk to the long term quality of the water resource at Chew Valley Lake. In the past 50 years, two of our water sources have been put beyond economic use by pollution from landfill leachate . . . (where) it was clear there was no meaningful control over what was tipped.”

Over 4,000 signatures were received on paper and online petitions to stop the Stowey Quarry development. Independent expert analysis commissioned by SSAG highlighted serious errors in the application and clear evidence that the quarry was an inappropriate site due to the risk of land instability and the threat to Chew Valley lake from leachate generated by waste. Objections to the plans were also made by Bristol City Council, Jacob Rees Mogg MP North East Somerset, the Green Party, Don Foster MP Bath, Bristol MPs Kerry McCarthy and Dawn Primarolo, the CPRE, BANES’ Ecology officer and most significantly, the Environment Agency. Unsurprisingly, given the heavy weight of evidence and opinion against the proposal, BANES unanimously rejected it.

The company’s appeal to the Planning Inspectorate is his last chance of success and our last chance to bury this ridiculous proposal for good. In advance of the public inquiry, comments from the public are invited but have to be in by June 6th. To do this, go to www.pcs.planningportal.gov.uk/pcsportal/casesearch.asp and then type APP/F0114/A/13/2195706 in ‘Search for Cases’. It’s a fiddle, but vital we all do it.

Members of the public are also permitted to attend the inquiry, which will take place over 3-5 days in autumn 2013 in a local village hall or community centre.

SSAG has been granted ‘Rule 6’ party status which enables a representative to speak at the inquiry and call witnesses and also experts including stability and hydrogeology to support their factual submissions.

We have also engaged the same expert environmental lawyer, Paul Stookes, who was instrumental in our previous success. This will cost us at least £12,000 and may mean a repeat of my night of smutty medical humour. All donations, whatever size, gratefully received via our website www.stopstoweyquarry.co.uk It also links to our Facebook and twitter sites, and news of fundraising events.

Thank you.

For Dr Phil’s DVDs, books and tour dates go to www.drphilhammond.com

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

It’s a numbers game

“I DON’T want to grow up,” said youngest son the other evening.

“Why not?” I asked.

“Because I don’t know what job I’m going to do,” he replied.

I know youth unemployment’s a concern but it shouldn’t be worrying a seven-year-old.

As a friend and I pointed out to the 14-yearold recently, you can reach your 40s and still not know what job you want to do.

“How will I know I can do the job?” he continued anxiously.

“Well, it’s ok. You fill out an application form and then you might get an interview and then they’ll decide if you can do the job.”

“So you just have to make sure the form looks good? Do you just have to be really clever?” he asked.

“Well, it’s not all about being clever. You have to have a personality too,” I explained, half-heartedly.

“But everyone has a personality. How can you not have a personality? Would you have to be really dull?” I’d confused him and he wanted this important point clarified.

“Well, yes. But that’s ok, for some jobs it might not matter if you’re really dull.” I knew he’d want an example. “For example, if you simply had to put numbers into a computer it wouldn’t matter if you were really dull.”

He pondered on this and seemed satisfied.

However, a few days later he shut himself away in his room with his Match Attax (football trading cards) and Match Attax albums from the previous three years. He emerged with lists of numbers.

“I’ve gone through all the albums and added up all the scores from each team’s players. I then added all the scores together for each team, for each year and then I’m going to see which year has the highest total score.”

At this point I felt a mix of emotions; nevertheless I responded enthusiastically: “Well that’s a real feat of mathematics!”

“It’s more than a feet of mathematics,” he replied, indignantly. “It’s at least four of my feet and probably ten cats’ feet!”

MENDIP MUM

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Investing in quality

WEDMORE Dental Practice has successfully achieved Investors in People status again for another three years, which means it has now maintained this status for 13 years and is currently the only dental practice in Somerset to have this achievement.

John Telfer, Managing Director of Inspiring Business Performance Ltd ( IBP), the organisation that delivers Investors in People for London and the South, said: “Wedmore Dental Practice should be congratulated for the way in which management and staff have come together to produce good results. I hope other organisations in the industry will look to them as a great example of what can be achieved.”

The practice has also been selected to have a mock inspection in the new health and well-being award delivered from Investors in People during the autumn.

The team ethos is to support and develop individuals and generate a general feeling of well-being. Their behaviour is hopefully reflected towards their patients who find them professional, efficient and empathic with individual requirements.

The practice has a wide dental portfolio from conventional, preventative and advanced dental treatments, along with cosmetic procedures such as crown and bridge work and tooth whitening. It also specialises in facial aesthetics such as dermal fillers and Botox-type procedures.

The practice can also arrange private referrals for dental implants, orthodontics and periodontal treatments. It is open daily with early and late appointments.

HEALTH & FAMILY

PETER SEDGWICK

B.D.S. (U.Brist) D.P.D.S (U.Brist)L.F. Hom (Dent)

TIM COATES

B.D.S. BSc (Hons) Ph.D

SALLY CANTWELL EDH

JANE FELLOWS EDH

Preventative, conventional and advanced cosmetic treatments

New Patients Very Welcome Please phone or call in for an information pack

Coronation House, The Borough, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EG Tel: 01934 713013 • www.wedmoredental.co.uk email: enquiries@wedmoredental.freeserve.co.uk

THE WALKING CURE – WHY IS WALKING SO GOOD FOR US?

Circulation: we all know exercise is good for the heart, but did you know that the circulation of the body is actually designed to be pumped by muscles and not just the heart? Tiny blood vessels in our soleus muscles (lower leg) are squeezed to push blood up the body, which can help prevent varicose veins and ankle swelling and aid circulation.

Spine mobility: the rolling motion of walking is actually coordinated by our spines and not our legs (which is why it’s so hard for robots to mimic).The constant rotating motion of walking helps keep our backs moving correctly, relieving pressure on joints and can even help to reduce mild back pain and stiffness from arthritis.

So, if you aren’t used to walking, start with doing just 15-20 minutes a day and then gradually build up.Try to avoid uneven ground that can stress your ankles and knees. If you’re having problems then please give us a call as we might be able to help.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 71

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Mendip Times reduces travel costs

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PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

New acupuncture practitioner in the Chew Valley AFTER 20 years as a Consultant Anaesthetist and Pain Specialist in the NHS, Dr Georgina Jefferies has set up as an independent medical acupuncturist, working from the new and wellequipped Chew Medical Practice.

Georgina, who is a member of the British Medical Acupuncture Society, has been practising medical acupuncture alongside her career as a consultant anaesthetist.

She said: “Acupuncture can be particularly helpful for back pain, headaches and arthritis of the knee and has been validated by NICE (the National Institute for Health and Medical Excellence) for these complaints. Many patients also find acupuncture helpful for conditions such as neck and shoulder pain, and women’s health issues.”

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HEALTH & FAMILY

THE GP partners and team at Wrington Vale Medical Practice, along with their patients, were proud to celebrate the opening of their new surgery at Pudding Pie Lane on December 10th 2012. The practice continues to go from strength to strength and the improved team-working that a single site allows has already led to more cohesive care for patients who need monitoring and check-ups for long term conditions.

The previously existing additional NHS services (including the retinal screening service, mental health services and clinics led by the health visitors, midwife and dietician) can now be offered in a more streamlined and timely manner alongside the extensive services offered under the standard NHS contract.

Since the new surgery opened the range of NHS services available has been expanded to include aortic aneurysm screening for those eligible and a clinic led by the heart failure nurse specialist. The practice aims to continue to expand the range of services available on the NHS to their patients. Routine appointments are

THE Mendip Suite is a private practice clinic, incorporated into the new surgery at Pudding Pie Lane. Our fully qualified complementary therapists offer a wide range of services to suit individual needs. Some of the treatments available include reflexology, osteopathy, sports and holistic massage, NLP, hypnotherapy and EFT, acupuncture, homeopathy and counselling.

Conveniently situated just off the A38, yet in a tranquil rural setting, the Mendip Suite welcomes you in to a relaxing and comfortable waiting area, where you can enjoy complimentary refreshments whilst looking forward to the personal care and attention you will receive from our dedicated therapists.

For more information about our services or to book an appointment, please contact any of the Practitioners listed

MENDIP SUITE COMPLIMENTARY THERAPIES Acupuncture Bowen Therapy Counselling (Individuals & Couples) Healing Hands Holistic Massage Homeopathy Hypnotherapy & E.F.T. NLP & Colour Therapy Osteopathy Osteopathy Reflexology Sports Massage Therapy

available up to 6 weeks in advance and the open access system remains very popular for those in need of care on the same day.

The Dispensing service is now on site at Pudding Pie Lane, providing convenient access to medication for eligible patients at the same time as they are accessing other services.

below, to discuss how we might help you. If you would like more information about the full range of services on offer, please call into or contact the surgery directly on 01934 852906.

Dan Lloyd Patrick Mohan MBTPA Sally Walters – Senior Accredited Counsellor Jill Bagnall RMN.MTI Patricia Clark Alison Becker D.Hyp (MBSCH) CP.AMT Trudi Day MNLP Prac. Dip Col TS Steven Harper Peter Everett Clare Greatorex Amy Fournier

07815 814886 / www.whatisthepoint.net 01934 733225 / www.bowentechnique.biz 01275 792056 / www.personalreflections.org.uk 01934 863097 / www.themassagecooperative.co.uk 01934 733658 / www.totalhealthhomeopathy.com 01934 843382 / 07715 286606 01761 463644 / trudi@trudiday.com 07964 258519 / www.backwellosteopaths.co.uk 01934 844764 / peter_everett1@btconnect.com 07855 350373 / clare@reflexologyby.co.uk 07450 140675 / www.backontrackwithamy.co.uk

Wrington Vale Medical Practice, Pudding Pie Lane, Langford, North Somerset BS25 5EL. Tel. 01934 852906 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 73

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HEALTH & FAMILY

The wedding planner

SUPPORTING a person who is living with dementia sometimes requires looking beyond providing care in a residential setting.

Such was the case when Nigel Davies asked staff at St Monica Trust’s Sandford Station retirement village if it was possible for his wife, Hilary, to attend their son’s wedding in the New Forest.

“We wanted Hilary to enjoy her son’s wedding in the safest possible way, so it was a question of how we could arrange it,” says deputy manager at The Russets dementia care home, Anne Shermon.

She said: “Our philosophy is looking at the person as a whole and our starting point was to look at the wedding from the benefit of Hilary. The bride asked us what they could do and we explained that it had to be done in a safe and controlled manner to make sure that Hilary wasn’t overwhelmed.”

The first decision Anne faced was choosing two members of staff to escort Hilary on the big day, settling on Karl and Mandy, who both worked in Ashmead. Karl was the designated driver and was also medication trained, so he could administer Hilary’s medicine as required.

Mandy, who has worked at The Russets for three years, also got to Karl and Mandy

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Hilary with husband, Nigel

use some of her artistic skills on the day, coming in at the crack of dawn to do Hilary’s hair and make-up. Mandy said: “She was perfect on the day. We almost didn’t need to be there. Hilary recognised everyone and wouldn’t leave Nigel’s side. Every now and then she’d look around to check that we were still there. As soon as she saw us she’d be off with her family again.”

All in all it was a long day for everyone involved, with Karl, Mandy and Hilary not arriving back at The Russets until the early hours of the morning. Anne said: “Nigel was so pleased with what we managed because he thought it was an unrealistic request,” says Anne.

“He was absolutely delighted with how well it went and with the extra work that Karl and Mandy put in supporting Hilary while she was there. I’ve started being referred to as the wedding planner. It was a lot of work, but worth it in the end and we’re so pleased for Hilary and her family that she was able to be there with her son on his big day.”

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Glastonbury memories

THIS year’s Glastonbury Festival will soon be here and I have many memories – mostly very good – of my time on duty there.

My experience was that we, the police, always tried to be as friendly and approachable as possible and our role was to make sure everyone had a safe and – just as

By SIMON importantly – an enjoyable time.

SELBY Watching from the roof of a police vehicle as Tom Jones performed on the Pyramid Stage to a huge crowd was surreal; we couldn’t go anywhere so the roof seemed like the best place to be!

I remember the security fence being installed for the first time and how we had to change our tactics to deter thefts from vehicles in the car parks and how, whilst undercover, myself and a colleague became completely lost one night.

The police are there to help and that is a view echoed by Inspector Rob Milligan, from the force’s Operational Planning Department. Rob is the deputy lead planner on the festival. Rob has been involved as a police officer with the festival for more than 20 years and the team is often approached by other forces for advice.

Normally, preparations begin soon after the last festival ends; last year there was no festival because of the Olympics but Rob and the team got to work as soon as that was over.

Reviewing the event and talking to the festival organisers about changes have been taking place ever since.

Festival-goers may not notice many of the Handing out lanyards which carry some useful changes; they’re mostly behind crime prevention tips

Think bike – I do!

THIRTEEN years ago I was just about to start working in what people wrongly called “the riot unit” based at Wells Police Station.

In order to do this I had to commute from Yeovil to Wells for many months on a Suzuki GP100 motorcycle. Predictably my “converted lawn mower” – as several police motorcyclists were in the habit of calling it – eventually gave up the ghost one late evening on the Ilchester Bypass. We ended our love/hate relationship by limping ingloriously into north Yeovil sounding like a bucket full of bolts in a cement mixer – not good.

Shortly after, I moved to Wells permanently. Despite no longer needing a motorcycle I then completely illogically booked on to an intensive motorcycle course in North Bristol with my good friend and colleague Mark Constable – yes, Constable Constable (and, to make matters worse occasionally Acting Sergeant Constable!).

We both eventually passed and I bought a Yamaha Virago 535 to travel the one-two miles into work. It was a lovely

COMMUNITY Always happy to chat!

the scenes, but the layout of some parts of the site have been altered slightly to improve the flow of people moving around before and after some of the major acts.

Crime prevention is as high on the list of priorities as ever and officers will be out and about offering advice and to provide reassurance. They’re also more than happy simply to chat! Some people from outside the Avon and Somerset area are surprised at how approachable officers are!

Festival-goers can expect to be offered some goodies such as a torch or water bottle, all carrying some simple but sensible advice.

But I say the best advice is always to pack your brain as well as your rucksack, whether you are a seasoned festival-goer, a local visitor or a complete newcomer. Don’t bring anything of great value, don’t bring large amounts of cash - there are ATMs on site.

And if you do have property such as a bike, use the free 24-hour lock-ups which can be found all over the site.

Finally, not forgetting off-site, police will again be patrolling Pilton and the surrounding area alongside security staff and stewards and working with Mendip District Council to tackle any issues that might arise.

If you’re going, have a good – and safe – visit!

machine with lots of chrome and allowed me to be a poser!

After a few years I had got the bike thing out of my system and subsequently returned to the civilized warmth of cars, including my pride and joy, a flashy red Lotus Esprit SE! How odd, then, that last year I bought another Virago. In honesty this was prompted more by the gridlocked traffic in the mornings around Bath - how much busier the roads are and therefore proportionately more dangerous, especially for bikers. That said, some dangers have always been down to the rider: each year when the first sunny days came along my colleagues and I would await the inevitable rash of serious road traffic collisions involving normally sensible people who would transform into speed maniacs the minute they were able to get back on a bike. Certain parts of the Mendip Hills would be treated as an unofficial racetrack despite our best efforts to prevent it and the consequences were often catastrophic.

So my message to Mendip bikers is please, when engaging your gears ensure your brain also remains engaged and you arrive safely.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 75

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Getting ready to race

Children from Bishop Sutton School will welcome the runners with African drums

FINAL arrangements are being made for the inaugural Chew Valley 10k, which takes place on Sunday June 16th at 9.30am from Bishop Sutton Primary School to raise money for the school’s PTA. Over 300 runners aged from 15-78 years have so far entered for the race and almost 100 for the children’s race, which will take place afterwards. Race director, Ann Booker, said: “We are so thrilled at the level of support and enthusiasm we have received from local residents, our business sponsors and the wider Chew Valley community.”

The race will be started by BBC broadcaster and Mendip Times contributor, Dr Phil Hammond, who lives locally.

Abbey’s winning habit

(L-R) Janet Bell, director, Sally Peters, company secretary; John Brendon, chairman of Trustees, Susan Strong, operations director and Janice White, trustee.

GLASTONBURY Abbey’s museum has been awarded the status of Full Accreditation from Arts Council England.

The scheme sets nationally-agreed standards for UK museums.

To qualify, museums must meet standards on how they are managed, for the services they offer and on how they care for collections. Museum director Janet Bell said: “Not only did we receive full cccreditation but no areas for improvement were identified and we were praised for this achievement.

“The award reflects our commitment to managing our collection effectively and making it available for the public, whether they are visiting the Abbey for enjoyment, education or research.”

Janet added: “Although no areas for improvement were identified we are always seeking to provide the best services and facilities we can offer to our visitors within our available resources”.

PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Wigs and pens

NEWS

Jeni at the launch of her book at Waterstone’s in Wells, where she works. The shop hosted a “Wig Wednesday” event to coincide with the launch to raise money for CLIC Sargent.

Jeni (second right) is pictured with colleagues Shobee Chant (left) and Helen Proudman (centre), publisher Andy Lunness and Jeni’s mum, Janet Mills

BOOKSELLER Jeni Oborn has been inspired to write her own first novel after battling against cancer as a teenager.

The Image of Survival mirrors Jeni’s own experiences and is about a girl who survives cancer and struggles to find meaning in her life over the years that follow her remission.

Jeni, 31, grew up in Draycott and was treated at the old Bristol Children’s Hospital after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 1997. Now living in Chilcompton, Jeni said: “When I was being treated at the old Bristol Children’s Hospital they were so incredibly supportive, organising trips for young cancer sufferers and providing information and their work is of critical importance to how a young individual emotionally and socially copes with the experience of cancer.”

The book grew out of a blog Jeni wrote whilst travelling in Paraguay - she also taught English in China – and is the first non-children’s book to be published by MALT Publishing, based in Temple Cloud.

Jeni is now working on ideas for her second novel – all she will reveal is that she has decided on the name of the central character!

Cary hosts welfare surgeries

A SURGERY offering advice about welfare benefits has opened in Castle Cary. The regular surgeries have been organised by South Somerset District Council so that residents can check what benefits they may be entitled to, receive help in applying and review “what if” calculations if their circumstances change.

Residents can drop in and seek advice or speak with a support officer in a pre-booked time slot about their welfare benefits.

The surgeries will be held at the Methodist Church in Castle Cary and will be held every other Friday; the next will be on Friday, June 7th.

G Three slots are on offer for residents who want to book in advance: 9.30am, 10.30am and 11.30am. These slots can be booked by calling 01935 462462 and asking for a referral to the Welfare Benefits team or by visiting SSDC offices at Churchfield in Wincanton. If an appointment has not been booked, people can still attend and hope to be seen if there are free appointments.

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The Netherworld of Mendip

THIS new permanent exhibition was opened at Wells and Mendip Museum on Friday, April 27th. Taking its name from a book written in 1907 by E.A. Baker and H.E. Balch, the exhibition illustrates the history of Mendip caving from its earliest beginnings some 150 years ago, to the present day.

With PHILIP Housed on the ground floor, the first room HENDY is panelled with display boards explaining the early history of Mendip caving, with descriptions of how such caves as Wookey Hole, Swildon’s Hole, St. Cuthbert’s Swallet and Eastwater Cavern were discovered and explored. The catchment of both Cheddar Risings and the emergence of the River Axe at Wookey are illustrated, showing how water sinking on the top of the hill makes its way down through the limestone until it sees the light of day again.

The second room is dark and cave-like and is devoted to the exploits of the cave divers, without whom much of underground Mendip would have remained undiscovered and our understanding of the hydrology would be severely restricted.

There are examples of diving equipment from the earliest hardhat days, when air was pumped laboriously to bottom-walking divers, to the latest technology.

A treasured exhibit is Fred Davies’ AFLOLAUN (the Apparatus For Laying Out Line And Underwater Navigation), a splendid Heath Robinson contraption used by the first users of the aqualung in caves. Fred was active in the 1960s and celebrated his 80th birthday in May. The room has video clips showing the types of underwater passages negotiated by divers and also has a mock-up sump, which does not look too inviting.

In the third room, also designed to appear like a cave, the visitor can see how cavers try to dig into new caves and passages.

There is a good A diver wearing early selection of oxygen re-breathing digging apparatus equipment and it is apparent that almost anything that can be used to excavate mud or rock can be pressed into service.

Some of the gear and tackle that we use, such as helmets, lights and ladders, are also shown. The recent discoveries in Reservoir Hole in Cheddar Gorge are also prominently displayed.

CAVING A cave scene

Photography by Phil Hendy

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Visitors can watch a 3-D tour of The Frozen Deep, Britain’s largest cave chamber in terms of area, which was made by laser scanning.

Work is continuing in extending and exploring this amazing cave, although we were recently reminded of the potential dangers of the sport when tragedy nearly befell a group which had descended Dingley Dell, the passage which descends to the sump. The water levels here rise and fall in tune with those at the resurgence and a diving team and supporters had gone down to try to explore the sump further.

It appears that although there is a strong outward flow pushing gravel at the diver, the way on is too tight to penetrate.

Unfortunately, on the return, a large rock suddenly fell, striking one of the female members of the party on the head, and trapping another. Luckily, both managed to extricate themselves without too much difficulty, although the female caver required hospital attention to some cuts.

Of course, the usual contingent of rescue services arrived to cause chaos in the gorge, although underground rescue is the sole responsibility of Mendip Cave Rescue, which is entirely manned by volunteer cavers.

There is much more to be discovered in this exhibition. It is fitting that this celebration of local speleology is housed here, as in 1895 Herbert Balch founded the museum, to display his collection of archaeological finds from Mendip caves, and also relics of local life and curiosities from overseas donated by travellers abroad.

The museum has always had close connections with cavers and adjacent to The Netherworld of Mendip visitors can see some of the bones of prehistoric animals and men, and their tools, largely excavated by Balch, but brought up to date by skulls found in Bone Hole by the Mendip Caving Group in the 1970s. Here also can be seen the skeletal remains of the Witch of Wookey, with her crystal ball.

The dedicated team of cavers and museum staff, and their sponsors, must be congratulated on developing The Netherworld of Mendip, which gives the non-caver a wonderful insight into the beauty lying under our feet whenever we walk on Mendip.

For anyone wishing to see these sights for themselves, the exhibition offers advice on caving organisations which can be contacted; others may be happy just to peek into our hidden world – and don’t forget, the rest of the museum is well worth exploring, with lots of unexpected rooms and treasures.

Phil is a member of Wessex Cave Club and has been caving for the last 44 years. Still active, his main interest is in digging to try to find new caves. He has published a caving cartoon book and collaborated on the recently-published Swildon’s Hole – 100 Years of Exploration.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 77

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MENDIP TIMES

Mendip success story

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

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Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

CARAVAN Repairs SouthWest has had to expand its workforce again, as the business continues to grow.

Now in its fifth year, the company, which specialises in the sale, service and repair of all types of caravans and motorhomes, is busier than ever, as sales of caravans and motorhomes continue to grow.

Sandra Case, who is in charge of the office said: “People realise that owning one makes regular holidays a relatively cheap option and that makes sense, especially when there’s a recession. Since we are insurance approved, as well as by all the national bodies, we have benefited. Advertising in Mendip Times has also helped us enormously.”

Her brother Steve founded the company after running the Mendip Caravan Repair Centre at Hewish, near Weston-superMare for 18 years. They moved to bigger premises at Gurney Slade because of demand. They have been made an approved repairer by the National Caravan Council, as well as having their workshop approved by Bailey Caravans.

Their shop stocks a wide range of spares, accessories and equipment.

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Rotarians behind the wheels A scene from last year’s inaugural show

THE Rotary Club of Bath is organising a second Bath Pageant of Motoring which will take place over the weekend of Saturday, July 6th and Sunday, July 7th.

The event will be held at Walcot Rugby Club at Lansdown, opposite the Lansdown Park and Ride site.

There will be approximately 400 cars and 150 motorcycles on display as well as a retail marquee, trade stands and motor trade displays. The main charity to benefit from the show will be the Bath Institute of Medical Engineering.

For more information and to exhibit, visit: www.bathpageantofmotoring.com

Tour was a classic

A 1934 Aston Martin owned by Tom Alexander from Hinton Blewitt won the award for the best overall car in the 2013 Mendip Tour organised by the Mendip Vintage Tom (left) with his son James, together with and Classic the Mayor of Wells, Theo Butt Philip, who Motor Club. presented the trophies The 70-mile tour began in Keynsham and headed into Wiltshire before crossing Mendip and down Cheddar Gorge, arriving in Wells in front of the Cathedral. The event was again raising money for the Riding for the Disabled Association.

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CLEEVE HILL, UBLEY BS40 6PG Telephone: 01761 462275 (24hrs) www.ubleymotors.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 79

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Student designer has palace commission

JOSIE May from Blagdon, a student at the prestigious Wimbledon College of Arts, created a Tudor dress exactly as it would have been made 460 years ago. The dress was one of several commissioned by The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace to launch an exhibition of Art of Tudor and Stuart Fashion.

The dresses were originally intended to form part of the display of paintings from masters like Hans Holbein the Younger, Anthony Van Dyck, Nicholas Hilliard and many more all from the Queens collection.

Each student was given a copy of a portrait of a member of the royal family or ladies in waiting in Tudor or Stuart times and then had to research the character and dress and learn the techniques in creating not only the dress but also the headgear and jewellery and then, at their own expense, they had make it from the materials that exactly corresponded to those used then.

Josie’s dress cost over £300 in materials and weighed over 30lbs (approximately 13kilos). It was modelled at the launch of the exhibition by Rose Nisbet. Rose, who is also a student at Wimbledon and is the daughter of Andrew Nisbet, the High Sheriff of Bristol last year, found that combined with the restrictive Tudor style corsetry, wearing it all afternoon was very tiring and unsurprisingly went home afterwards for a very well earned snooze.

Wimbledon College in London, possibly the best place to learn the art of creating costume for stage and screen with all ‘hands-on’, was allied with the London College of Fashion and is part of the University of Art in London.

The exhibition at the Queens Gallery called In Fine Style runs until October 6th and is supported by a book In Fine Style: The Art of Tudor and Stuart Fashion that has a special exhibition prices of £29.95 (rrp £45.00), which purports that many of the standard units of modern fashion, like the suit and tie, the dress that flatters the figure, began their evolution in this period.

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

From Farrington to Uganda

SCARLETT, who attends Little Star Nursery in Farrington Gurney, went into nursery with the idea of sending a letter to Africa, as she loves leopards and elephants so

much. That’s now lead to a link with Uganda.

Leader and part nursery owner, Kate Wilson, said: “It got me thinking about how we could actually do this and introduce the children to thinking about children who live in different countries and how our nurseries and lives differ.

“I therefore contacted ‘Circle Of Friends’ through an organisation Edirisa UK, who have linked us with a new day care centre in Kabale, Uganda. The children have therefore been busy compiling information in to a scrapbook about their lives here in England, about our nursery, the village of Farrington Gurney and surrounding places where we live.

“We are now looking forward to receiving the same information back. It is also a learning time for the nurseries in Uganda, for whom the ideas of learning through play, that Early Years education is based on here in the UK, is new to them, so we hope to help them too.”

Healthy competition

DURING June, Frome Rotary are staging a competition to help Frome schools fund a visit by Life Education Wessex, a specialist charity provider of health and drug education for children between three and 13 years. A one-day visit to a school by the charity costs £650 of which 50% is paid by the school and the other 50% by the charity.

Promoted by Frome Rotary Club, it is sponsored by Frome Medical Practice and Charles Hart Jewellers. The Friends of Frome Hospital are also providing a large donation to pay for the Life Education Wessex contribution whilst Frome Town Council and two local county councillors have made grants towards their funding so making it a real community project.

Frome Rotary Club have been involved with the charity by helping to move a mobile classroom from school to school as well as raising funds for schools and Life Education Wessex.

They will launch the competition on Tuesday June 4th, when “Stopwatch Cards” will be sent home to parents of children in participating schools who have until June 28th to sell as many seconds as possible to family, friends and work colleagues.

The person who purchased the second on which Harold’s Stopwatch stops will win £500, the school selling the winning second also wins £500 and £50 will go to the parent selling the winning second.

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NEWS

Anniversary appeal

A CHARITY which encourages people with learning difficulties to lead as independent lives as possible is celebrating its 20th anniversary with an appeal to raise £20,000.

SWALLOW, based at Midsomer Norton, was established in 1993 when a group of people with learning disabilities got together and decided that they wanted more say in how they lived their lives, more independence and more choice.

Today, the charity remains a memberled organisation and has expanded its services to include courses to build independent living skills, work skills, art and craft activities as well as social events.

General manager Bev Craney said: “We’ve come a long way in 20 years, but it is not time to rest on our laurels. Now is the time to secure SWALLOW’s future and as well as running some special events ourselves we are hoping that local people will play their part in supporting our worthy cause.

“There are a host of ways that both

SWALLOW members, parents and carers, staff and trustees at the 20th anniversary celebration

organisations and individuals can help; it could be as simple as committing to baking 20 cakes to sell, getting sponsored to wash 20 cars or simply having a SWALLOW donation box on your till or reception desk.”

Guests who attended the Twenty for 20 launch and party at Farrington’s

Farm Shop at Farrington Gurney, included students from Midsomer Norton Sixth Form, who showed the film they created showing the work of SWALLOW as well as members of Bath University Hockey Club who chose SWALLOW as their charity of the year this year.

To support SWALLOW’s ‘Twenty for 20’ appeal, obtain a sponsorship pack or find out about the services they provide, telephone 01761 414 034 or visit www.swallowcharity.org

Youth group tucks in

COMPTON Dando Five villages Youth Group is going great guns with youngsters enjoying their weekly meetings on a Friday evening. It was set up as a result of the Parish Plan for the five villages in the parish of Compton Dando.

Their aim is to provide a range of activities throughout the year for youngsters of all ages living in the five villages.

Activities have included a circus skills afternoon in the parish hall and a play morning run by a B&NES playworker.

They also hold a regular weekly tuck shop when all the youngsters congregate down the hall after school and enjoy a couple of hours together.

Compton Dando Club members Freddie, Sol and Dave manning the tuck shop

Details: 01761 490903

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 81

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MENDIP TIMES

Photo courtesy of G. P. Munns

Three is the magic number THE name might not yet be that familiar, but 3 Solutions is a property maintenance company with an impeccable pedigree.

3 Solutions represents the new image of Albino Maintenance, based at Downside, Shepton Mallet, which itself was formerly part of Albino Builders.

It’s very much a family-run company: Tony Guidi is managing director and his two sons-in-law – Rich Watts and Andy Mortimer – are directors. Their wives, Emma and Carla, also work for the company.

The company employs 33 people and has just taken on two new apprentices. It covers an approximate 40-mile radius of Shepton Mallet.

The name is derived not just from the silhouettes of three houses on the company logo, but from the fact that Tony’s family hails from Trivento in Italy; the name means “three winds”.

3 Solutions covers all aspects of property maintenance from plumbing and heating to roofing and electrical. The company has recently acquired FENSA status for its UPVC windows and doors

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Ask the family – the team behind 3 Solutions

and is the ideal answer for private or social housing landlords and letting agents who are looking for high-quality solutions to their property maintenance needs.

But 3 Solutions is also more than happy to take on private domestic jobs and offers a 24-hour call-out service.

Andy, who plays for Temple Cloud Cricket Club, said: “We have 30 vans in our new colours and people might see our new logo and not realise who we are or what our background is. We are very much a family business which goes back

a long way.”

Rich added: “We think 3 Solutions is something of a success story. Despite the current climate we have grown the business by a third in the past year and taken on two new trainees.”

The company is also proud of the fact that it supports local businesses and community groups. It sponsors Shepton Mallet Bowls Club and Stoke-subHamdon under-9s soccer team. And this year it will have a marquee at the MidSomerset Agricultural Show to showcase its work and its local suppliers.

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Increased demand for property

DEMAND for property in the South West rose during April, as the government’s announcement on the Help to Buy scheme began to make an impact on the housing market, according to the latest RICS residential market survey.

New buyer enquiries increased in the region, with 12 per cent more chartered surveyors reporting demand for property rose rather than fell. The latest rise in enquiries suggests that along with the existing Funding for Lending scheme, Help to Buy is attracting interest even if the mortgage guarantee element of the product is not due to come into effect until next year.

As demand increased so did supply, with new instructions to sell rising in April (to a net balance of 25 per cent). This increased activity led to respondents becoming more positive in their expectations for future sales, with a net balance of 30 per cent of surveyors in the South West expecting sales to rise in the next three months.

Newly agreed sales stayed at a similar level to the previous month, with 15 per cent more surveyors reporting that sales rose rather than fell during April. Meanwhile, the average number of completed sales per surveyor over the past three months was 17.

This and last month’s average are now at their highest levels since December 2009 Despite the improving picture for mortgage lending, many are still relying on the private rented sector, with demand for rented property in the region continuing to outstrip supply. The result is that 21 per cent more surveyors expect rental prices to rise rather than fall. That said, respondents to the survey anticipate rents rising by less than two per cent over the next year. This plateau may be in part due to a healthier housing market and increased access to mortgage lending.

Hundreds flock to sale

PROPERTY STONE ALLERTON, SOMERSET

DETACHED PERIOD VILLAGE HOUSE WITH EXCELLENT EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES! A quite charming detached house located in the centre of the village with period 4 bedroom accommodation, landscaped gardens, stabling and ménage.

This house combines traditional with contemporary: flaggstone floors, large farmhouse style kitchen, study, sitting room with woodburner, separate dining room with fireplace, ‘green oak’ garden room. 4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms.

IN ALL 7 ACRES. PRICE GUIDE £845,000

CAM VALLEY, SOMERSET

Richard Nancekivell, from David James, conducted one of the biggest farm sales seen for years at Compton Martin. See page 11.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR PEACE AND QUIET, BIRD SONG AND A BABBLING BROOK, COME AND TAKE A LOOK AT THIS DELIGHTFUL COTTAGE. A detached period stone built house with family sized accommodation; Three reception rooms, 4/5 bedrooms and two bathrooms, some modernisation required, but standing in level mature gardens with outbuildings and paddock.

IN ALL 3.72 ACRES. PRICE GUIDE £725,000 Wrington Tel: 01934 864300

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 83

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MENDIP TIMES

PROPERTY

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PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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NEWS

Frome Show heading for sell-out THE outstanding success of Frome Show 2012 is set to be repeated this year if stand sales are any guide. With four months still to go before the show’s gates open on Saturday, September 14th, it’s heading for a complete stand sell-out, with all of the indoor stands other than a few in the Cheese Pavilion taken.

Most of the outside stands around the Main Ring are also either sold or reserved and the showground plan on the wall in show secretary Brenda Scott’s office reveals just a handful of vacant spaces in the area around the Village Green.

Brenda said: “This is great news, especially as we already have a number of enquiries for the remaining spaces, so the message to local businesses is clear – if you want to be part of one of the most successful shows of its kind by taking a stand, get in touch with us quickly or you may miss out.

“However, even if you are too late for a stand, there’s another way you can get your name out in front of the show’s 20,000

visitors – through sponsorship. We have a variety of sponsorship options available but we’re also happy to talk to anyone who wants to design their own package.”

This year’s event, the 137th in the show’s 150-year history, takes place as usual on the West Woodlands Showground where major investment has been made in roadways, electricity supply and other

services making it an ideal showcase for both agricultural and consumer businesses.

The show, which was a finalist in the Farmers Guardian’s Show Business 2013 competition, is also host to the fast growing Global Cheese Awards with hundreds of different types of cheese lined up for tasting by the judges in the nationally renowned Cheese Pavilion.

More information about the show is available on www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk, where visitors can sign up to receive a copy of the show’s regular newsletter and schedules for its many competitive classes will be available to download

Baker uses his loaf

FARRINGTON’S supported the Real Bread Maker in May by running after-school bread making workshops for parents and children. All of this preparation culminated in a well subscribed competition, the Bake Off which took place at the farm shop.

The event was held in conjunction with the Real Bread Campaign and Farrington’s resident baker The Thoughtful Bread Company, backed by the charity Sustain (Alliance for Better Food and Farming).

The aim was to raise awareness of real bread and to encourage the making of bread in the traditional manner.

The overall winner was Brian Murray of The Old Parsonage Bed and Breakfast in Farrington Gurney. Brian bakes bread on a daily basis and has gained a reputation for baking delicious fresh bread for his guests.

He made a special organic loaf for the Bake Off using local ingredients including mixed Burcott Mill organic flour, Yeo Valley 0% organic yogurt along with organic dried fruit and seeds. The result was a bread with a great crust, nutty taste, moist texture, great flavour and overall good looks crowned with organic oats – and no additives.

The judge Duncan Glendinning, owner of The Thoughtful Bread Company, was impressed with the number and calibre of the bread entries and presented Brian with a copy of his book ‘The Bread Revolution’.

A chance to volunteer

A RANGE of volunteering opportunities is currently on offer at Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Somer Valley Children’s Centres.

Opportunities include supporting “Stay and Play” and “Messy Play” sessions, as well as gardening, administration, driving and nursery positions. For anyone who’s not sure what they’d like to do, then staff at the centres can place them in an appropriate role, depending on their interests and experience.

The centres are located in Peasedown St John, Radstock, Paulton and Midsomer Norton and the services they provide include: Meetings with family support workers Parenting skills Support for families with children who have additional needs Attend a baby/toddler groups Support to get back into work Housing/benefit advice Healthy lifestyle information The centres will also be running activities throughout National Volunteer Week (Saturday, June 1st- Friday, June 7th) including an information event on Thursday, June 6th (9.30am-12pm and 1-4pm) at Midsomer Norton Children’s Centre.

To find out how you can get involved, call 01225 396660 or email jed_parsons@bathnes.gov.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 85

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Draycott Memorial Hall goes from strength to strength FEW people could happily combine the jobs of chairman and caretaker. But then there are few people like Bryan Hathway, a man with a commitment that sees him chairing Draycott Memorial Hall committee meetings one day and cleaning and buffing its floors the next.

Bryan has been involved with Draycott’s superbly appointed hall from the start. It was officially opened in March 2001 by the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Lady Gass, and replaced Draycott’s old village hall in The Street.

Bryan said: “Anyone who knows Draycott also knows there’s no parking space in The Street so a new hall, with ample parking and wonderful facilities was a welcome boost to the village.”

The hall, built on allotments adjacent to the sports field, is a massively popular venue for everything from wedding receptions to short mat bowls; from WI meetings to stage productions by the talented Mendip Players.

Bryan believes that much of the hall’s popularity is due to the meticulous attention to cleanliness throughout the

entire building. It has received frequent praise not only for this but for the immaculate condition of its wooden

main hall flooring.

This is perhaps Bryan’s real pride and joy and his advice on cleaning and maintenance is sought by a number of village halls throughout the county. The floor, which measures 35 x 65 feet, rarely looks other than pristine, which is a tribute to Bryan’s hard work and rather belies his 79 years.

The hall committee, chaired by Bryan, all share his determination to keep every aspect of the hall up to the mark. Last October it recorded its record level of bookings, 103 for the month, and Bryan believes its continued success and profitability are largely attributable to the committee’s policy of investing in its upkeep and improvement.

Hudson s Supplies and Service Heating, Plumbing

“The hall is in daily use,” says Bryan, “so it inevitably gets more than its fair share of wear and tear. Consequently we have an on-going painting policy to ensure every room is bright, clean and fresh and we repair and replace as necessary.”

In keeping with the high standards the hall sets for itself, the committee also demands excellence from its suppliers.

Bryan said: “We’ve just replaced windows in the back and at the side as these were exposed to the worst of the weather and we needed durable and robust replacements.

“We chose Kingfisher for this job and were delighted not just with the quality of their windows, but with the installation and service too. We were shown a whole range of options before we made our final choice of antique teak. Kingfisher are nice people to deal with and completely reliable.”

The hall was praised by the BBC for its superb acoustics and it provides a great environment for gigs and parties for up to 150 in the main hall (including tables).

Anyone interested in hiring Draycott Hall should contact Bryan on 01934 743425.

Bristol Drains Ltd Camera Surveys, Blo cked Drains, Jetting & Septic Tanks

For a genuine plumbing, heating or drain enquiry, a 24 hour call-out service is available 365 days a year. Please feel free to call us for a no-obligation, highly competitive quotation at fixed hourly rates.

HUDSON PLUMBING AND HEATING SERVICES LIMITED

BRISTOL DRAINS LIMITED

Tel: 0117 902 5820 • Fax: 0117 964 4666 Email: info@hudsonplumbing.co.uk Hudson Plumbing & Heating Services is a well-established local business located in the Bristol area. With over 20 years experience, we have built up an enviable reputation for quality workmanship, high levels of customer care, reliability and value for money.

Tel: 0117 940 0074 • Fax: 0117 964 4666 Email: info@bristoldrains.com At Bristol Drains, you can be assured of first-class work carried out by our own experienced and professional engineers.

Whether you have a blocked drain at your home, your office or you require a buried drain traced/located – CALL US NOW – no job too small.

• Central Heating installation • Shower Room installations • Wet Room Specialists • Boiler System Upgrades • Annual Service Contracts • Local Authority Approved • Boiler Servicing & Repairs • Bathroom installations • Kitchen Plumbing • Bespoke Adaptations for Disabilities

• Waste Pipes • Toilets/Sinks/Baths • Water Jetting • Septic Tanks • Drain Repairs and Replacements • Gully Emptying • Camera Surveying and Reports • Domestic Drain and Pipe Cleaning • Sewer Cleaning

Units 5a & 5b, Advantage Park, 75 Whitchurch Lane, Bishopsworth, Bristol BS13 7TE (Entrance in Cater Road) A C C R E D I T A T I O N S

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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Classic floors from local stone

JOHN King of John King Flagstone Floors near Somerton has a passion for stone and flagstone floors and has recently brought his business to the West Country to the source of beautiful locally-quarried stone. John’s ethos is to produce a classic product that will complement both historical and modern architecture and stand the test of time.

John has always been passionate about traditional building, having initially completed an apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery. However duty called and an eight-year career in the Household Cavalry ensued. During this time John kept his passions alive by being involved in property development, including three of his own projects - renovating old cottages even during active service.

After leaving the Household Cavalry, John continued to work on many different property renovations and new builds varying in size and design and quickly recognised the need for bespoke services to make each project authentic.

Each flagstone is quarried, cut and finished to a customer’s specifications locally, a truly British product that is extremely hard wearing to last a lifetime, though restoration of existing flagstones is also a service available.

From his experience in managing projects, John is able to work with every member of the team involved to achieve the best results. He is very proud of his work to date and looks forward to working on future projects.

John King Flagstone Floors

HOMES & INTERIORS

HIRE

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

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

Long or Day Hire Delivery & Collection Service Trade & DIY

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

Producers and Installers of Traditional Flagstone Flooring Restoration, dimensional stone cutting and landscaping www.flagstone-floors.co.uk Telephone: 07912 873188

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 87

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Individual kitchens and bathrooms from Firenza

ALTHOUGH their brand new kitchen and bathroom showroom on Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton only opened at the end of last year, Firenza Kitchens and Bathrooms, an independent local company, is quickly building up a reputation for providing an excellent, knowledgeable and personal service for all tastes and budgets.

Their showroom is completely different from any other in the area.

There are 12 beautifully crafted, high quality finish kitchens on display along with a range of appliances on show.

Whether you want a stunning modern high gloss kitchen, or you would prefer a classic style or a traditional shaker kitchen, there is something to suit all tastes.

Firenza is the main Luce by Hotpoint appliance centre in the area with 15 working appliances in the showroom, including an induction hob, touch control ovens and a coffee machine. Customers are always welcome to come in for a

demonstration (and for a coffee!).

Don’t need a complete overhaul? If your kitchen only needs a face-lift, you can call in to find out how Firenza can help you with appliances, taps, sinks, worktops, tiling and flooring.

The company was set up by two local businessmen, experienced kitchen designer and fitter, Andrew Stock, and Mark Coles who has also worked for many years as a self-employed plumbing, heating and electrical engineer. Between them, they have over 50 years experience in the kitchen and

bathroom industry, mainly in the local area. Lisa Coles, Mark’s wife, is also part of the team and Firenza has just welcomed Adrian Smith, an experienced designer, to the company.

Firenza is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9am to 3pm. They are also able to do free home visits any time that is convenient for the customer.

Why not pay them visit to find out about their services and how they can work with you to create your new kitchen or bathroom?

WITHOUT RIVAL WE HAVE THE LARGEST AND BEST SELECTION OF CANE FURNITURE IN THE SOUTH WEST!

• FREE estimates • Full installation service • 15 working appliances • Full design service • CAD design service • 12 kitchens on display • Supply & fit or supply only

WE HAVE OVER 500 FABRICS TO CHOOSE FROM

Our friendly sales staff are available in-store with a wealth of advice and experience

UPDATE YOUR CANE FURNITURE With a full suite of top quality cushions now available from £329.00 With removable covers and large range of fabrics

CANE FURNITURE

STILL MANUFACTURING BASKETS ON SITE SINCE 1951

01749 343414 In Store Haskins Retail Centre Shepton Mallet BA4 5AX (ample free parking) Opening times: Mon - Sat 9am - 5.30pm • Sun 10.30am - 4.30pm PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Est. 1951

IN TH WI IUS Y ER AD LIV E R NG DE -MIL UDI OL E E 0 CL T FR A 5 IN BRIS

MENDIP TIMES •JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 88

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Jacksons Fencing – news, topical treats and more . . .

Glorious June is here and the summer show season is getting into full swing.

This year we are pleased to say we are having a show stand at the Bath and West Show . . .

JACKSONS

The new premium stables

by Jacksons, see them for real a the B&W show

PART of the stand will consist of our garden products, for those of you who are keen on your gardens. However we will also have a full sized version of one our new premium stables there too, so visitors can see the fantastic quality “in the flesh”.

Hopefully if you are planning to visit the show you will come and say hello to the Jacksons team there and chat over any projects you have coming up. We will be holding a free prize draw to win £300 of Jacksons vouchers, so come and fill in a form on the day – you will find us at plot no. 157, on Avenue E at the corner of 10th Avenue.

More good news is our new Good Fencing Guide has just been published, the first one for two years. It’s even bigger and better than before at 160 pages and is packed full of the usual really useful information on all of our products. There is a new price guide to go with it, but please note the prices haven’t gone up!

Don’t forget that for the next few months (until the end of July) we are running our photo competition. We will be awarding a prize of £300 of Jacksons vouchers to the winner of the best photo, and ten runners up will receive prizes too. Here’s an example of one of our customer pics that’s been sent in before, it shows Jazz and Fleur the golden retrievers with their new Jaktop fence.

For full details on the photo competition and how to enter go to your local page – www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal – and if you can’t make it to the Bath & West show you can still enter our Free Prize Draw for £300 of vouchers on line too, instructions on how to enter are on the local page as well. louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 89

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Security specialists

• High quality electric garage doors • New range of colours and wood foils • Security shutters bars & grills • Covering all domestic & commercial installations • Professionally fitted by our own team • Over 30 years experience in the trade

For your FREE quote and discounts available

ESTABLISHED in 1983, Annik and Halesmart Ltd, has been trading locally on recommendations for over 30 years.

Nick Hale, of Halesmart Ltd, has more recently been joined by Merl Cunliffe, to form Securguard.

Their aim is to offer their quality service and products to home owners and businesses alike throughout the area. Securguard can offer the latest ranges of automated garage doors, domestic and commercial security shutters and grills, windows, doors and conservatories, which will compliment your period/contemporary home, or retail property Selecting Securguard will not only offer you a choice from some of the best products on the market, but also free professional advice and help on making the best decision for you and your property.

All work from sale to completion of installation is done themselves, ensuring that their high standards are maintained.

Get air conditioned Wherever you work, whatever you do, air conditioning systems provide a year round solution to create a comfortable and productive environment for your staff, customers, or home.

Our systems provide cool conditions in the summer and comforting warmth in the winter.

COMING SOON –

After a free survey of your needs Ian Hobbs Technical Services Ltd offers a vast range of equipment from many of the worlds leading manufacturers.

30 COLOURS!

All systems are energy efficient, have a three year warranty bringing cost savings and the opportunity to claim tax relief.

For a free no-obligation survey contact Ian Hobbs Technical Services on 01761 414356 or info@ianhobbs.com

Criterion from Cavalier

Abingdon Stain Free Arena

80:20 twist in 24 plain colours 40oz, 50oz, 60oz From £19.95 - £27.95/m²

Stain resistant polypropylene £11.95/m² 10 year wear warranty TECHNICAL SERVICES LIMITED

THE COMPLETE SERVICE PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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Local joinery firm under new ownership

HOMES & INTERIORS

D B JOINERY in Hallatrow is under new ownership. The firm was previously owned by Roger Gibbins and his wife Susie. At the end of 2012, Roger decided to retire and the business has been bought by Roger’s daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Nick Carter.

Lisa has handled the sales and marketing for the last five years and Nick joined the company as managing director in January. He said: “Lisa and I have been considering running a business together for some time and we were thrilled when Roger asked us if we would like to buy the joinery.”

The joinery has been producing top quality work since 1982 and has built up an enviable reputation as one of the south west’s leading joinery businesses. Their extremely diverse customer base ranges from individual home owners and local builders to some of the country’s leading house builders.

Specialities include staircases, doors, windows, porches and bespoke joinery.

For more information call 01761 451123 or visit the website at www.dbjoineryhallatrow.co.uk

COME AND SEE US AT THE ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW, STAND NO 452

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 91

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Solar specialists

• SERVICING • PERIODIC INSPECTIONS • MAINTENANCE • REPAIRS AND UPGRADES TO ALL TYPES OF SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEMS • SERVICING AND INSTALLATION OF UNVENTED MAINS PRESSURE HOT WATER SYSTEMS

JOINERY

SOLARSCOTIA Southern Limited specialises in the servicing, repair, maintenance and commissioning of solar thermal systems for both domestic and commercial clients. They also offer fault diagnosis and repair to Photovoltaic systems.

Solarscotia Southern Ltd is based near Wells in Somerset and serves domestic and commercial clients throughout the South West. Their reach for commercial clients extends UK wide. They say their mission is to support the UK’s growing solar market by maintaining and repairing existing solar thermal hot water and Photovoltaic systems.

They can also install and maintain pressurised (un-vented) hot water systems. Their close partnership with Wessex Gas Services Ltd, Glastonbury allows them to offer services for gas, including landlord safety checks, power flushing, boiler servicing, gas appliance repairs and installation.

The company started in early 2007 and quickly built an excellent reputation in and around the Grampian region, delivering high quality design, installation, supply, servicing and commissioning services to both domestic and commercial sectors.

Solarscotia Southern Ltd is a standalone satellite operation.

Their intention is to bring their solid and diverse experience to the South West by offering support services to the thousands of solar hot water users who now benefit from solar thermal installations in the Somerset, Devon, Dorset and Wiltshire regions.

Whilst their focus is on service, maintenance, fault diagnosis and commissioning, they are also able to arrange design, supply and installation services to private clients and developers alike.

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

Established 1968

100,000 potential customers just a few miles from your business

Softwood and Hardwood Windows and Doors Bespoke Joinery for . . .

Barn Conversions New Builds Grade 1 & Grade 2 Listed Properties Machine Mould Sections to Match

Tony Hucker TV SALES • SERVICE • RENTAL Panasonic

PLASMA & LCD TV

WHY GO TO TOWN WHEN WE ARE AT

01761 232723 PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

Unit 4, Fairseat Workshops, Chew Stoke BS40 8XF

Tel: 01275 332888 Open: Mon–Fri 9am–6pm & Sat 8.30am–12 noon

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HOMES & INTERIORS

RH

WOODBURNING SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN BRAYSDOWN, NR RADSTOCK

Windows THE CHEW VALLEY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED WINDOW COMPANY WITH A REPUTATION BUILT ON QUALITY AND SERVICE

Eleven Manufacturers Stoves Over 250 to choose from Cheapest price within 50 miles We supply and fit as well as supply

FOR CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS AND DOORS IN HARDWOOD OR UPVC

Cheapest in the UK – Internet site soon online

HARDWOOD JOINERY SPECIALISTS www.rhwindowsltd.co.uk

Telephone: 01761 452171 Fax: 01761 453342 Mendip Times

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MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 93

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MENDIP TIMES

Are you ready to show?

AS the spring finally starts to turn to summer, the nights are at their longest, and the grass is really growing; many horse owners around the county will be sprucing up their equine partners to start hitting the local show scene.

One of the brilliant things about owning a With CELIA horse, is all the opportunities there are to GADD compete, at whatever level suits you.

We have many professional riders in our region who have already been out at their eventing, dressage and show jumping events and looking to qualify for various national competitions that take place later in the year, but the largest number of show owners comes from our pleasure riders, who enjoy the challenge of the odd local competition.

Most pony clubs and riding clubs hold their annual open show, which can consist of many different rings with everything from show jumping, showing and gymkhana. The showing classes again offer a variety of levels, from those with Pedigree Mountain and Moorland ponies or winning hunters, through to novelty classes that can be for those who have never been in the arena before.

Lead rein classes and first ridden are popular with the younger riders, and it is incredible to see the high standard of riding in some of these tiny tots.

However, sometimes these shows are also the scene of some unpleasant and unnecessary accidents as the inexperienced owners and riders do not fully understand all the basic rules of the show when it comes to warming up etc.

For horses and ponies that do not compete regularly the mere excitement of the being in all this company can often make them behave in a way that is not ‘normal’. There are a few things that can be done which may make your day more enjoyable.

Try and arrive in plenty of time so that you are not stressed out and rushing to get to a class in time. If you can get to the show

June 2013 show dates Saturday 1st Polden and Bridgwater Riding Club unaffiliated dressage at Cannington College Sunday 2nd Silverton Pony Club One Day Event at Pontispool Farm, Norton Fitzwarren Side Saddle Show at Leyland Court Farm Wednesday 5th Unaffiliated show jumping at Pontispool Farm, Norton Fitzwarren Friday 7th Unaffiliated dressage at Urchinwood Manor, Wrington Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th BSJA Juniors at The Hand Equestrian

PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

ground nice and early then it will be quieter and you can get your horse and pony out and let it get used to the atmosphere and once settled get on and ride around the show ground quietly for a while before asking him to work.

If they are very excited it may even be an idea to pop them on the lunge for ten minutes or so just to ‘take the edge’ off before getting on if you are going to ride them.

It is not a good idea to ride faster than a slow trot around the parking area. People cantering around the back of lorries and trailers can cause many an upset pony; and so find a quiet area or a designated warm up area before doing any serious work.

In the warm up area it is correct practice to pass left hand to left hand when meeting a fellow competitor head on, and also to make sure that you give each other as much room as possible when passing. If you are walking then try and stay off the outside track and look around you well before making transitions or starting to use any practice fences.

Also, you must keep in mind your horses’ fitness levels as very easy to over -do it when at a show and end up riding for hours and having a very tired horse the next day.

Shows are great fun, a really good social occasion, as well as being able to spend quality time with your horse and pony, and even if you do only compete for fun taking home the odd rosette is a fantastic achievement.

If you are not sure which class you could enter in then ask your riding instructor, or if you are a member of a local riding club then other members will help you.

Make sure you prepare as much as possible by fully understanding what will be expected of you in the ring, and also practising at home before having to do your ‘individual show’ in the ring.

A well behaved, well turned out horse will always have a better chance of winning a rosette, than an ill prepared un-fit and unkempt one.

Good luck! Let us know how you get on this summer.

Centre, Clevedon Sunday 9th Brent Knoll Riding Club at Stretcholt Farm Wednesday 12th British Dressage at Stockland Lovell Manor, Fiddington Wednesday 12th – Sunday 16th BS Seniors at The Hand Equestrian Centre, Clevedon Thursday 13th Unaffiliated show jumping at Stockland Lovell Manor, Fiddington Saturday 15th Combined Training at Stockland Lovell Manor, Fiddington

Sunday 16th Mini show jumping at Stockland Lovell Manor, Fiddington Urchinwood Manor Open Show, Wrington Saturday 22nd Unaffiliated dressage at Urchinwood Manor, Wrington Sunday 23rd Clear round show jumping and cross country at Urchinwood Manor Wednesday 26th West Somerset Riding Club Unaffiliated dressage at Stockland Lovell Manor Sunday 30th Berkeley Hunt Pony Club show at Leyland Court Farm, Bristol

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Ponies express!

THERE were more than 60 entries for the annual Wylye Valley Pony Club Races at Wincanton Racecourse, attracting riders from across the south west and further afield.

Organiser Geoff Andrews said he was delighted with the day, supported by the racecourse, Paul Nicholls Racing and Mrs Angela Yeoman.

Sponsors of the eight races included Mrs Yeoman, Old Mill Financial Services and the Frome Cheese Show.

RIDING A young rider checks out the race card in the stands

Safia Woodward, 13, who lives close to the racecourse, with her family before the start of the first race

Martin and Jo Taylor, from Wanstrow, were part of the team running the Tote Thomas Greatrex, on Milly, crosses the finishing line ahead of Mitchel Godwin on Just Shane

Open: Wednesdays 12pm-8pm and ursdays-Saturdays 10am-6pm.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 95

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MENDIP TIMES

Summer management

AS summer hits the South West our horses have to face a completely different set of problems as they do through the winter. It has been a very slow spring but the grass is really starting to grow now so horse owners must be on the look-out for signs of laminitis which becomes rife when the grass starts to increase in sugar and richness.

The most likely candidates are the Mountain and Moorland ponies but even horses can be affected by this condition if they are allowed to become too fat, or have access to too much rich pasture so it is a good idea to keep a close restriction on the hours they are allowed to graze.

Sometimes a muzzle is a good idea if you don’t want to restrict the exercise but you do want to limit the amount of grass intake your pony is having and most of them do not seem to mind this at all. Regular exercise is also important to help keep the weight down; and often it is a good idea to keep the ponies in off the grass for a few hours a day too if possible.

Another summer problem is the amount of horse flies that will suddenly appear as the weather gets warmer and these can be a real nuisance and can even cause accidents by horses running around the field trying to get rid of them.

There are many types of fly repellent on the market, of different levels of effectiveness, so it is worth trying them out to

J.B. Equestrian Services Livery, Schooling, Instruction Facilities for Hire

see which one works best for your horse. You can also buy full fly rugs now which do help to keep the flies off the sensitive parts of the horse too.

Colic is another ailment to look out for when the grass first starts to come through as often the horse’s stomach takes a while to readjust to the different levels of nutrition and this can cause serious abdominal pain. There are different types of colic but all should be treated and monitored carefully as they can easily turn into a life threatening bout without treatment. In most cases a simple muscle relaxant and pain killer, as well as monitoring the food intake is sufficient to get them through but sometimes more surgical intervention can be necessary. As with all these things the secret is to get to know your horse, observe them regularly and act quickly if things seem to be different from the normal.

New service is a winner

WHY pay full training fees when your horse isn’t fit enough to run? One year on from opening their new annexe dedicated to thoroughbreds (pre-race fittening, rehab and point to point) J.B. Equestrian are pleased with their results.

So too are the owners, judging by the return business they are getting. They offer a fittening service second to none and will even liaise with trainer and deliver your horse with full handover if required.

They offer six, 10 and 12-week programmes and also take horses for lay-off periods, rehab, Brightwell sales prep and retrain to sell into other disciplines. Bookings are now being taken for 2013/14. For full details please contact Julia at JB Equestrian Services.

Horses need homes

Liveries – short/long term incl full, schooling/problem solving, holiday and producing for comp/sale.

Pre-race fittening.

Lessons available with your own horse.

Regular dressage and Showjumping competitions.

Tel: 07889 065301 01275 892629

Email: j.bodman@btconnect.com

The Stables, Maesknoll Farm, Norton Lane, Pensford, Bristol BS39 4EZ

PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

THE staff at HorseWorld are holding a “name the foal” competition on their Facebook site following the arrival of three newborn foals from four mares rescued in Wales. This skewbald filly was is pictured with mum Stardust.

The Whitchurch based charity says the rescue is just a small part of an on-going equine crisis, with a large rise in the number of horses and ponies abandoned, neglected and mistreated during the harsh winter. It has taken 24 horses this year and says it will be at bursting point, unless it can re-home some of them.

Sarah Hollister, Training Welfare Manager, said: “Some of the horses and ponies are ridden and some are just field companions, but we must try to find loving loan homes for as many as possible to make room for the next bout.”

Details: www.horseworld.org.uk/rehome

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Horse trials on course for success THE Nunney International Horse Trials return to the outskirts of the village for the second year in June for three days of top-class competition.

Set in the stunning grounds of Southfield House, between Nunney and Whatley, organisers hope to build on the success of last year’s inaugural event, which saw more than 700 riders competing, including many of the sport’s top names, watched by hundreds of spectators.

The event takes place this year from Friday, June 14th until Sunday, June 16th. This year’s title sponsor is dp+PAUL Chartered Building Surveyors, from Wells, who won the privilege following a lottery-style draw. Other main sponsors include Roger Penny (Plant Hire) Ltd, and Mendip Fire Places (Bath) of Monkton Combe.

This year, show jumping in the main arena over all three days will provide even more of a spectacle for visitors. There is a complete mix of trade stands, from jewellery and kitchenware, to furniture and hobbyhorses, to equestrian clothing and saddlery and an array of trade stands and a food corner selling delicious local produce will all add together to ensure it is a fantastic day out.

Organiser John Colson said: “Last year was the first time we staged the event at Southfield House and it was in incredibly successful competition. We’ve made several changes this year, such as having all the show jumping in the main arena and introducing a lottery to find the title sponsor.

“As we move forward, we will continue to innovate and make changes where necessary so that it firmly establishes itself as one of the top events in the West Country.”

Classes range from BE100, which is novice level, to a CIC2* which is an international class. Last year, top honours went to Kate Allen, from Shepton Mallet, who rode her 11-year-old gelding Final Encore to victory.

G Lieutenant Colonel John Colson, organiser of the horse trials, has passed away following a long illness.

Teresa Dufosee, event chairman, said: “We are all so very sad and our thoughts and love are very much with his family. John worked so hard and devoted so much of his time to the organization of horse trials and he will be sorely missed. It was very much his wish that Nunney should carry on as normal and we will all be building on the success of last year’s inaugural event.”

British Eventing Chief Executive Mike Etherington-Smith said: “John’s enthusiasm and passion for the sport has been second to none.”

RIDING

Southfield House will provide the backdrop to the show jumping

More information is available at www.nunneyinternationalhorsetrials.co.uk

Action from last year’s cross country course

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 97

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MENDIP TIMES

Sparrow joins ‘Hole-in-One’ Club

Victoria is the queen of Somerset golf

Heather Kerr-Wilbur

MENDIP Spring senior golfer Dave Sparrow scored a ‘Hole-In-One’ at the 14th hole while taking part in the club’s weekly Seniors’ stableford. He will receive a special edition H1 watch from sponsor Hugo Boss Watches.

All golfers that score a hole-in-one in a competition where the score can be verified by the HowDidIDo web site system are given automatic entry into the H1 Club.

Mendip Spring ladies have got off to a flying start to the season, with six of them cutting their handicap in the first month and Heather Kerr-Wilbur being selected as a member of the Somerset County Squad. The squad is in training for County Week to be held in June at Woodbury Park Golf Club.

Somerset Ladies Past Captains’ Society held their Spring Meeting at Mendip Spring on a testing, very windy day.

Home players Lyn Withey and Janet Fear were the winners of the greensomes competition with 36 points. Their prizes were ‘silver sugar bowls’ to hold for the year.

Other competitions brought to a conclusion saw Jackie McDonald and Jane Prosser win the Winter Pairs greensomes final in a close match against Sue and Katherine Sokol, which was decided on the 19th hole. The Ladies Singles final saw Janet Fear defeat Gill Prophet, despite a ‘hole-in-one’ from Gill to win the 14th hole.

The new Lady Captains’ Cup was won by Jane Prosser with 41 points. This was the best score played over midweek and weekend stablefords. Finally the Ladies Augusta Flag was won by Janet Fear with a net 72, the best score over the April medals.

Charity golf day

RADSTOCK and Midsomer Norton Lions Club will be holding their 10th charity golf day at Farrington on Monday June 17th in aid of the Great Western Air Ambulance and other local causes. The entry fee is £30 per pair or £20 for members.

Details: Derek Yelling 0117 9863608 or4 07831 577711.

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

CHEW Valley schoolgirl, Victoria Watts, is the new champion of Somerset Ladies’ Golf. At the age of 17, she triumphed from a field of 30 in three days of cold and blustery competition at Weston-super-Mare Golf Club.

After qualifying on the first day of 36 holes to get through to the knock-out stage, she managed to work her way through four additional rounds before being crowned champion. Then it was back to revising for her A-levels in geography, psychology and sociology at Chew Valley School.

Victoria started playing golf four years ago at Farrington Park initially encouraged by her dad, Sean, who acted as her caddy at the championship. After getting her first set of golf clubs at the age of 13, she has been successful in a number of competitions and now plays off eight and her dad 12.

Victoria, from Chew Magna, was picked for the Somerset girls’ squad three years ago and joined the ladies a year later.

She receives coaching from Russell Covey, of Bath, once a month.

Victoria said: “I just aim to enjoy my golf, not to get anywhere in particular with it. I’ll play as much as I can in my gap year. I’ve a place at Dundee University but I need to get my handicap down to five to get into the golf team there.”

She aims to study geography and become a teacher and is currently working part-time at the Ring O’ Bells, Hinton Blewett and for Sue Roberts at Topline Catering.

Her dad Sean and mother Anna run Old Pit garage in Bishop Sutton, with Sean’s parents Doug and Iris.

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Mendip invests for the future

THE chairman, finance director and secretary of Mendip Golf Club held a budget forum to answer members’ questions on the recently published year-end accounts and future plans. The excellent results confirmed yet another substantial profit, almost 10% higher than the previous year’s record result.

Plans are already firmly in place to reinvest another £250,000 in further improvements to the course and clubhouse, which are aimed at securing the club’s position as one of the top 150 clubs in the country, as defined by “Today’s Golfer” magazine.

Rob Needham, chairman, commented: “The results are remarkable in the present climate but we are not resting on our laurels! We have another six figure profit target to achieve this year, whilst keeping our course in top condition and our subscriptions as the best value in the area.

“We are achieving this by growing our membership by continually improving every aspect of our offering, rather than simply increasing fees or cutting costs. This would be an easier quick fix but would not safeguard the long term future of the club.”

Nigel Cheshire, finance director, said: “We have recruited 160

GOLF new members over the past couple of years, and have already attracted an amazing further 25 in the first month of this new financial year. We are particularly pleased that we have also sizeably reduced the age profile , so nowadays only a third of our membership is of retirement age compared to over 50% two years ago.

“We believe the launch of our new Academy, utilising our first class professionals and new practice facilities, should attract more families and newcomers to the game, and therefore continue this trend.”

Jim Scott, Secretary concluded: “Anyone wishing to join our great club should contact us quickly as we are not that far away from full capacity. At this rate, we may have to consider reintroducing waiting lists and joining fees earlier than anticipated!”

There was strong encouragement for the Board and staff from the members and Paul Smith, in particular, summed up the general consensus: “It is crystal clear that the finances are in good order and in safe hands, and, as you have promised on many occasions, we will be debt free by 2015.

“So, members should let the committee follow the business plan, give them positive encouragement and support when asked , but above all relax and enjoy their golf!”

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 99

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MENDIP TIMES

Now it’s Norton’s turn!

MIDSOMER Norton rugby club followed in the footsteps of their rivals Chew Valley and won promotion after a comprehensive 28-12 victory in a playoff final against Frampton Cotterell.

Chew had secured the Somerset Premier League title with victory at Norton, leaving Norton in second place.

They were drawn against Frampton, runners-up in the Gloucester Premier League.

Both sides will start next season in the Western Counties North league.

Champagne moments: the end of a great season for Norton

Ready to rumble: Norton celebrate promotion

Player of the year: second-rower Jamie Gimpson celebrates with his twin sons Jacob and Jack, aged 18 months.

Drive time: will Norton have the muscle for next season?

PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

The only way is up: Norton cross the line for their final try of the game

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Wedmore showcased at HQ A GIRLS’ rugby team from Hugh Sexey’s Middle School at Blackford, near Wedmore, enjoyed every moment in the limelight at Twickenham in front of a massive crowd during a tournament to showcase the growth in popularity of the sport.

The under-13s side took third place in the RFU National Girls Schools competition in front of thousands of fans who gathered for the prestigious Army v Navy match. To reach Twickenham, the team battled through a series of pool matches at Staines RFC on the morning of the finals, winning four and losing just one.

Hugh Sexey’s then played off against a team from an independent school from Herfordshire for third and fourth places before the kick-off of the main event.

Action during one of the pool matches at Staines RFC

RUGBY

The Hugh Sexey’s team at Twickenham with coach Gareth Waterfield, Janice Anastasi (RFU Women’s and Girls’ Integration Board) with the framed photo montage, Mark Durkin (Royal Navy Schools Representative) with the shield and England women’s international Fiona Davidson.

Head teacher Jenny Venning wrote on the school blog: “Our girls were superb and represented our school so well ... we are VERY, VERY proud of them.”

Mark Saltmarsh, RFU Head of Education Development, hailed the continued growth of the girls’ game in schools. He said: “Now that the women’s Union is fully integrated into the RFU there is a clear commitment to the women’s and girls’ game.

“With a team of Women’s Rugby Development Officers working alongside the rest of our field staff around the country, we are seeing more and more schools keen to offer girls rugby. The opportunity to play competitively throughout secondary school is a vital

Chew Valley win the double

ingredient of getting girls involved and keeping them in the game.”

Many young players around England have taken up the game for the first time and moved from schools rugby into local clubs. The RFU Competition responds to their desire to continue developing their skills and enjoying their rugby as they get older.

The year 7 and 8s (U13) play sevens on a half-size pitch, with three-player uncontested scrums, no lineouts and no kicking out-of hand or for touch. This leads on to 10-a-side for the new year 9 and 10 (U15) competition, still on a halfsize pitch, with five-player uncontested scrums, and four players in the lineout but with no ‘”long” or “quick” throws.

CHEW Valley completed the league and cup double for the season and the first cup win in their history but not without having a scare when beating Gordano 168. It was a nervous end to a fantastic season for Tom Waddington and his team and their coaches Paul Hull and Bruce Wellman who will be looking to build on this success in Western Counties North next season.

At the senior awards night Darren Jefferies was awarded Player of the Year and coach Bruce Wellman Clubman of the Year for their contributions during the club’s record-breaking season.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 101

Photography courtesy of RFU/Capture the Event

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MENDIP TIMES

New croquet season

Keinton capture cup

THE Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt. Rev. Peter Price, has officially opened the season for the Palace Croquet Club and urged new players to join.

He said: “I encourage people to get involved in the game and club – where else can you learn a new sport, keep fit and meet new people with a thirteenth century medieval palace as your backdrop?”

Keinton Kestrels celebrate victory. Back row (l-r): Bella Coveney (GA), Penny Rice (WD), Francesca Smith (C), Hannah Seager (WD/WA). Front row (l-r): Sarah Parsons (GS), Kath Murray (GK), Fiona Fischer (WA). Not in photo Beth Griffins (GD)

Details: the Bishop’s Palace shop or contact Ian Telfer, Palace Croquet Club chairman 01749 860414.

Mendip and Moors Challenge

A 60-MILE cycle ride across Mendip to raise funds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society is taking place on Sunday, June 2nd.

The circular ride – there is also a 60-kilometre route – starts from Croscombe Village Hall and will mark the 60th anniversary of the charity.

Organiser Peter Graham, chairman of the Mendip MS Society branch, hopes to raise £60,000 in the coming months for the society. Peter, who runs The George Inn at Croscombe, said his son, David, was planning to visit from London to take part.

The 60-mile ride starts at 8am and the 60km ride at 9am.

To register to take part in either ride, visit: www.somersetcycle60.org.uk

Chilcompton celebrate

CHILCOMPTON Sports are champions of the MidSomerset Football League Premier Division, which they last won in 1999. They probably have the best facilities in the league with new dressing rooms and a superb pitch.

Their first team have applied to go senior next season and it’s almost certain they will be playing in the Somerset Senior League in 2013/2014. Tim Curtis the manager has put together a very young team. If they turn senior they are going to replace their first team with a colts side in the 3rd division of the Midsomerset League.

The club runs all age teams from under 8s-up to under-16s.

PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

THE Keinton Kestrels netball team – based in Keinton Mandeville – have won their first trophy just four years after being formed by a group of young mums in the village.

The Kestrels beat Walton Blacks 44-22 in the Sydenham Cup, part of the Somerset County League cup finals held in Taunton. Francesca Smith, who played at centre, was nominated as Keinton Kestrels’ player of the match. Kestrels head coach, Alex Ireland, was delighted with her team’s performance.

Keinton Kestrels have gone from strength-to-strength and are about to move to a brand new, purpose-built court at Keinton Mandeville Village Hall. Club members helped raise funds for the new facility.

G Keinton Netball Club would be delighted to welcome new members and they cater for a wide age range of ages, from minis (over four years old), high 5’s (seven–11 year olds), juniors (under 16’s) up to the senior team (no age limit!).

For more information, contact either Rosie Phelps (chairman) on 07525909538 or Fiona Howes (secretary) on 07780 607142 or email them at: keintonnc@hotmail.co.uk

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SPORT

Somerset FA Chairman to retire ALAN Hobbs, the chairman of the Somerset Football Association, has announced that he will be retiring from the position at the end of the season after 29 years in the post.

Alan, a businessman from Midsomer Norton, is the longest-serving chairman aside from the legendary Charles Lewin. Alan informed colleagues at a recent board meeting that he would not be seeking re-election as chairman at the Annual General Meeting in June.

Alan joined the council of the Somerset FA in 1972, rising to the position of Association deputy chairman by the early 1980s. Following the death of Doug Cummins, Alan was elected chairman in 1984 and immediately led the county in the Centenary celebrations in that year. Alan also succeeded Doug as Somerset’s representative on the Football Association Council.

During his tenure he has lead the Association through some of the greatest changes in its history. In 1984 , Somerset FA had just one employee, County Secretary Lew Webb; the association had no office, with the

business being carried out from the secretary’s home. With increased administration requirements additional staff were employed, along with the county’s first computer system. With this increased workforce a county office was required and this resulted in the purchase of 30 North Road in Midsomer Norton as the county’s first ever headquarters in 1989.

With the FA implementing an extensive Football Development programme in the early years of the 21st Century and the resultant increase in staff when Somerset FA became a limited company, the premises at North Road had become even more outgrown.

In 2009 Alan oversaw Somerset FA’s move to its first purpose-built headquarters, Charles Lewin House, in Glastonbury.

In 2005, following 21 years’ service on the council of the Football Association, during which time he served on several committees including the FA Vase Committee, Alan became a Life Vice president of the Football Association. Alan was also made a Life

Alan Hobbs

Member of Somerset FA in 1993.

Alan said: “I have enjoyed every minute of my time with Somerset FA. After almost 30 years with the County FA firmly established in our new home and in good health financially, I feel now is the right time to hand over the baton to someone else.

“I would like to thank my colleagues on the Board for their help, support and friendship and to our fantastic staff who work so hard and with great dedication for football in this county; I know I leave football in Somerset in safe hands.

It has been a privilege and honour to serve as chairman since 1984.”

Grant secures expansion of Wedmore playing fields

AMBITIOUS plans to expand Wedmore Playing Fields have been given a major boost with a grant of almost £100,000 from the Football Foundation, the UK’s largest sports charity.

The funding means the playing fields management committee can tell contractors to start work next month on the first phase of the long-awaited development, which will eventually double the size of the existing facilities.

The first phase will provide two additional football pitches, space for a new play area and more car parking. Extra pitches are needed because the Isle of Wedmore Junior Football Club has become hugely popular and now runs 19 teams, making it the largest in Sedgemoor. The new pitches will be seeded this year and be available for use in summer 2014.

The 30 additional parking spaces will be welcomed by not only the parents of young footballers but also cricketers and others who use the playing fields – and parents dropping off and collecting children at the adjoining Wedmore First School Academy.

Later this year Wedmore Tennis Club plans to build new courts next to the Bowls Club. This will free up its existing courts to become a multi-use games area where footballers can train on the artificial surface under floodlights.

Other phases of the development will see new equipment installed on the play area, 64 more parking spaces and new nets for Wedmore Cricket Club. A two-storey new sports pavilion to serve the football teams and other users is planned as the final phase.

The project will retain the Village Field used by the Harvest

Artist’s impression of the new facilities for Wedmore Playing Fields – the new football pitches and tennis courts are to the left and the new car park and play area in the middle foreground.

Home for the funfair and by Wedmore Young Farmers for their annual fireworks displays.

Funded by the Premier League, the FA and the Government via Sport England, the Football Foundation has given grants totalling £420m to improve grassroots sport since it was launched in 2000.

Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said: “Wedmore Playing Fields Management Committee has been extremely energetic and has worked tirelessly in partnership with Somerset County FA to secure this funding, and I am thrilled to see their hard work rewarded with this substantial Football Foundation grant.”

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Sevens heaven

THE second annual Sevens Festival at Frome Rugby Club has been hailed as a great success by organisers and players.

Teams from across the south west, Wales and further afield gathered at the Gipsy Lane ground for a day of competitions.

Amongst the teams in the Mens Open tournament was a side of Fijian players who used the event as a warm-up for the sevens season. The competition was won by the St Pauls Pirates, from the University of Gloucestershire. There was also a social competition and a round-robin ladies tournament.

Bristol Rugby Ladies score against their rivals from the University of Bristol

Match day officials were sponsored by Old Mill

Frome in action against Godfathers A, an invitational side from Trowbridge

Matt Warnock, one of the 7s organisers with son Rory, aged two PAGE 104 â&#x20AC;˘ MENDIP TIMES â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 2013

A big crowd enjoyed a day of rugby, along with a beer and cider festival

No way past this Smashy Bears player

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Oh Wells!

IT was a game too far for Wells Rugby Club when they faced Bideford in a play-off match for promotion to the Tribute South West One league.

A big crowd at Wells saw the visitors power their way to a 20-27 victory in what was billed as the biggest game in the home side’s history.

But the feeling amongst the Wells supporters was that despite the defeat the team had enjoyed a hugely successful first season in the Western Counties League, finishing runners-up to Weston Hornets and winning 21 out of 26 matches.

Prop Tom White urges on the pack to make a final effort

A minute’s silence before the start of the game in memory of Niall Mellis, 18, who played junior rugby for the Wells before he was diagnosed with liver cancer

Stefan Davies is congratulated by Aaron Cook after scoring a try to bring Wells back into contention

Lewis Cohen and Gavin Foster back on safe ground

Joy for Bideford

A GROUP of Wells rugby players reached new heights when they took part in a sponsored skydive.

Dave Wheatley, Matt Hyde, Ash Hill, Lewis Cohen and Gavin Foster were jumping for two good causes: the development of Wells RFC and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013 • PAGE 105

(Photo courtesy of Sophie Elbourn)

High fliers

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Half marathon preparations

MEMBERS of Frome Running Club are gearing up for the second Frome Half Marathon event in July.

Working with the Rotary Club of Frome, the athletes will be hosting a 10km race and a 5km fun run on the same day.

Entries are now open for the event, which has a 1,400 capacity and is expected to attract many of the runners who competed last year and who praised the organisation and the route.

This year’s route has been altered slightly to account of comments made by residents and road users but the half marathon will still take competitors out into the countryside around Nunney and Whatley.

Like last year, the event, on Sunday, July 21st, will start from Frome Town Football Club’s ground. It will raise funds for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and kick start a trust fund for new sports and athletics facilities in the town.

G Organisers are appealing for marshals to help on the day.

Anyone aged 18 or over who would like to help should contact Dot Cretney, from the rotary club, on either: 01373 463114 or by e-mail: dorothycretney@hotmail.co.uk For more information on the event, visit: www.fromehalfmarathon.co.uk The start of last year’s event

Humphrey Barnes, president of the Rotary Club of Frome, joins members of Frome Running Club to launch the 2013 t-shirts for runners

Bishop Sutton are champions BISHOP Sutton AFC has won the Toolstation Western League Premiership title, despite having been 15 points behind nearest rivals Brislington back in October.

With an average age of 23 years old, there is a similarity in age, stature, ability, character, togetherness and ambition as the great early 80s’ Bishop Sutton side put together and kept together for over a decade by the still ever-present George Williams.

The current side have already set their focus and ambitions on stepping up to the Southern League ranks in the next few years.

Fans Darren and Lee Milton said: “This has been a massive team effort for all involved at Bishop Sutton AFC and we will be celebrating until the ‘cows come home’ at Lakeview!”

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Down to a T: Judy Bryant, Lynette Grimstead, Nick Cooper and Dan Berryman sporting this year’s shirts

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SPORT

Mendip table skittles results

Ladies' champion Denise Adams

Division one cup winner Alan Dibble

IN the same week that the football season came to an end across the country, so did table skittles in Mendip, and with similar results. There were familiar faces at the top of the table and familiar names on some of the cups, but some real shocks too.

The Football League may have Wembley, but Mendip Table Skittles league has the glory of Redhill Club, where packed crowds enjoyed two last nights of exciting finals matches, raffles and trophy presentations.

The Crown Regil dominated, as usual, winning the league overall, the Division One Cup and the League Cup, but it was a different story in the pairs and individuals, where only Jean Sweeney, beaten in the final by a confident Denise Adams, got amongst the prizes.

In the Division One Individual Cup, veteran Alan Dibble proved that age is no barrier to success, defeating Tony Harse to claim his second Division one pairs champions Steve Lewis title. In the Second (left) and Andy Gardner Division Individual competition, Dave Smart held on to last year’s title and will now be looking for a hat-trick.

The real drama was in Division Two where any one of three teams could have come top going into the last couple of weeks, but it was the Crown Jewels who proved triumphant, pipping Redhill Club at the post. Redhill still had a fine season, however, as they took the Division Two Cup as a team, while Colin Young and Jim Livingstone won the Division Pairs Trophy. In the Division One Pairs, Steve Lewis came off the subs’ bench to partner Andy Gardner to victory.

Now we have a summer break and watch the transfer news as teams rebuild their squads for next season and players rest before doing it all over again next year.

Steve Miles

Colin Young (left) and Jim Livingstone division two pairs champions

Second division cup winner Dave Smart

More local football winners

Peasedown were winners of the Mid-Somerset Morland Cup after beating Westfield 3-0 in the final at Shepton Mallet.

Westhill Sports who won Division 3 of the Midsomerset League

Chew Magna Reserves after beating Tunley Reserves in the Wilmott Cup Final 3-2 after extra time.

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Famous faces and more – that’s Frome Festival

HEADLINE acts and household names will once again combine with the best local talent to create another unforgettable Frome Festival.

Now in its 13th year, the 10-day event, from Friday, July 5th until Sunday, July 14th, celebrates the huge variety of art life

Rising star Olivia Chaney will perform at a new venue on the edge of town: Cooper Hall is a purpose-built concert venue at Selwood Manor

in the town and surrounding area.

As the festival’s creative director Martin Dimery says in the festival brochure: “Even against the backdrop of heavily diminished public funding, the arts life in Frome continues to thrive and flourish.

“This would not be the case were it not for the many volunteers and contributors to the Frome Festival.”

One of the reasons behind the continued success of the festival is that many groups and venues join in by organising their own events, many free to attend, along the lines of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or Brighton Festival.

The festival organisers have forged a strong relationship with Frome Town Council to encourage more visitors to the town. Festival spokeswoman Helen Pearse said: “The festival is the hub around which so many other events take place. It is very much a people’s festival with lots of free, family events.”

G This year’s Festival will also celebrate

Jo Brand will appear at the Merlin Theatre at a special post-festival event on Monday, July 15th

the 21st anniversary of ECOS – the European Community of Stones which stand outside the town’s Merlin Theatre.

Nine huge stones, set in the brow of an amphitheatre, represent each of the founding members of the European Union. Frome Festival grew out of an ECOS festival in 1992.

The festival box office is now open. For information, visit: www.fromefestival.co.uk

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(Photograph courtesy of Manuel Harlan)

Globe on screen in Wells

THE Wells Film Centre is to host the 2013 Globe on Screen season this summer which will feature Henry V, The Taming of the Shrew and Olivier-nominated Twelfth Night..

Audiences will have the opportunity to experience the world’s most famous stage as if they were there in person – all three performances have been captured in high definition and will be broadcast in their entirety in pristine Samantha Spiro as Katherina and digital cinema quality, Simon Paisley Day (Petruchio) in with full 5.1 surround Shakespeare’s Globe production of sound.

The Taming of the Shrew Henry V, Shakespeare’s masterpiece of the turbulence of war and the arts of peace, opens the season in June. It is directed by the Globe’s Artistic Director Dominic Dromgoole.

Twelfth Night was one of London theatre’s biggest hits of summer 2012, completely selling out all of its performances at the Globe and creating queues around the block in the West End. It will be screened in July.

The season concludes with The Taming of the Shrew.

Shakespeare’s notorious battle of the sexes gives us one of theatre’s great screwball double-acts in the shape of Katherina and Petruchio – a couple hell-bent on confusing and outwitting each other right up to the play’s controversial conclusion.

G Henry V will be shown on Wednesday, June 5th at 3pm and on Saturday, June 8th at 7pm. Twelfth Night is being screened at the same times on Wednesday, July 3rd and Saturday, July 6th with The Taming of the Shrew on Wednesday, July 31st and Saturday, August 3rd. Matinee tickets include tea/coffee and biscuits. Film fans who book all three evening shows at the same time will receive a voucher for a 187ml bottle of wine per person for each screening.

WHAT’S ON

Summer fun for good causes ON Saturday June 15th, Norton Radstock College is hosting MidSomer Fest, a summer festival set in the grounds of their Horticulture and Animal Care centre. All proceeds from the day will go to the Teenage Cancer Trust, to help improve the lives of young people with the illness, The Trussell Trust, which runs hundreds of food banks across the country, and the college’s Student Hardship Fund.

There will be fantastic live music from the Mangledwurzels, who are well known across the West Country with their ‘Scrumpy and Western’ style music and Piston Broke, a local band from Midsomer Norton.

There will be a great selection of stalls to visit, handmade chocolate, fudge, cupcakes, sauces made from home-grown chillies, jewellery, plants and much more. There

will be plenty of entertainment to keep the children occupied, plus the college has over 100 animals to visit.

Give your taste-buds a treat with handmade burgers, pulled pork, all locally sourced, and cream teas will be available, along with a licensed bar – all the ingredients you need for a fabulous afternoon.

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

Friday 7th June

Friday 14th June Friday 21st June

Friday 28th June

COMING UP:

After Earth (cert 12A) The Hangover Pt. 3 (15) The Eye Of The Storm (15) Man Of Steel in 2D and 3D (tbc) World War Z in 2D and 3D (tbc) Despicable Me 2 in 2D and 3D (tbc)

G Book in person G Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk G Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

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65 years of off-roading

LOVERS of off-roading are being invited to help celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Land Rover by taking part in a thrilling 4x4 event at the Royal Bath and West Showground at Shepton Mallet.

Part of the showground will feature one of the most challenging off-road courses in the UK for the Bristol and West Land Rover Show on Saturday, June 22nd and Sunday, June 23rd.

Owners of 4x4s can bring along their own vehicles, but rides will be available for other motorists who think their vehicles are not up to the challenge.

The off-road course is designed by Matt Smith, owner of Xtreme Offroad, who has created similar circuits around the world. Matt said: “The course at the Bath and West Showground follows a sharply undulating, tight and twisty route through manmade obstacles and natural wooded features which are testing whether wet or dry.

“There is mud as well – some of it conveniently placed in a ditch four foot deep and 100 feet long right in front of the public viewing area, which makes for great watching for the spectators.”

Mark Woodward, who has organised the event, said: “The course is open to all, but for those who don’t think their vehicles are up for it, they can join a one of the Xtreme

Offroad experts for what will be the ride of their life.

“We launched the show in 2012 and it is a great family event. Land Rover is celebrating 65 years this year so we will be marking the anniversary showcasing some of the finest examples of this iconic name including rare and prototype models, as well as ex-military vehicles.”

The Show also features a Live Action Arena with entertainment throughout the weekend with Land Rover parades, interactive games and demonstrations plus there will be a retail village.

Tacking the off road course costs £12 per session in advance or £15 per session on the day. To make a booking, call: 07768 748515. For more information on the Bristol and West Land Rover Show visit www.bristolandwestlandrovershow.com

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Chance to win Air Day tickets

THE RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day will be held on Saturday July 13th and with ‘Teamwork’ as its theme, this year’s event will once again offer families and aviation enthusiasts alike a thrilling and memorable day out at this key Royal Navy showcase event.

As in previous years, Air Day 2013 will include more than five hours of top-class air show entertainment, a comprehensive static display and a huge array of ground attractions. Staged most years since the end of WW2 and regularly attended by over 30,000 spectators, Air Day is one of the UK’s longest-established air shows and among the South West’s largest single-day events.

Air Day offers no more visible evidence of teamwork than that demonstrated in the spectacular Commando Assault. Other examples of teamwork in Air Day’s flying programme include the world-renowned RAF Red Arrows, now back to a nine-aircraft unit, the highly aerobatic Royal Jordanian Falcons and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, with its classic Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane formation.

Air Day’s nostalgia quota also encompasses several classic naval aircraft including the locally-based Royal Navy Historic Flight’s Fairey Swordfish pair – an especially significant inclusion given this aircraft type’s deep involvement in the Battle of the Atlantic, which took place 70 years ago. The majestic Avro Vulcan B2 XH558 – a real showstopper at recent Air Days – will be taking part in what’s likely to be its last full year on the airshow circuit.

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Mendip Times has teamed up with Yeovilton International Air Day organisers to offer readers the chance to win five pairs of tickets. Just answer this question: What is the theme of this year’s event?

Answers on a postcard by June 12th to Air Day Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset, BS40 7RG. The first five entries picked will receive pairs of tickets. The editor’s decision is final.

Last month we ran a competition to win two tickets for Ladies Day at the Royal Bath and West Show. The lucky winner is Mrs Julia Young from Bishop Sutton.

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May 29th – June 1st Royal Bath and West’s 150th Show. See page 12.

Saturday June 1st Rummage Theatre present their first play, Cleansed, after a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Axbridge Town Hall, 7.30pm. Details: 01305 764726. Tickets £7(£5).

“Fantasias 1580 -1680” – lunchtime concert by the Mendip Consort of Recorders at All Saints Church, Weston-super-Mare. Small entry charge in aid of the church.

Craft Fair in aid of Children’s Hospice South West. Camerton Hall, Camerton, BA2 0NL. 10am-1pm. Craft stalls, plants and refreshments.

“Now That’s What I call Hymns” Nantwich, St. Mary’s Church, Wedmore, 6.30pm for 7.15pm. Villagers favourite hymns with bar, readings, poems and music. Tickets £4, from Cottage Gallery or the Paper Shop, Wedmore, or on the door. Details: 01934 710149 or dahopkins@aol.com Sunday June 2nd Boules on the Green, Old Station, Winscombe, 10.30am-4.30pm, for family and friends.

Details: www.boulesonthegreen.org.uk or ring 01934 842869.

Compton Dando, St. Mary’s Church. Teas and cake will be served every Sunday for 12 weeks only beginning June 2nd between 2 – 5pm. Profits to the Church Funds. All welcome.

Walk: Alfred’s Tower. Details: www.dontwalkalone.co.uk Monday June 3rd – Tuesday June 11th Jesmarie’s Painters are a friendly group of artists who meet most Mondays in Wells to paint together. Our annual Exhibition in the cloisters of Wells Cathedral. Details: 01749 345351.

Tuesday, June 4th Poetry Liaisons at Midsomer Norton Library.7pm-8pm. Open to all. Share your own poems, bring a treasured favourite or just listen.

For more info: 01225 394041 or visit: www.bathnes.gov.uk/libraries Wednesday June 5th Yeo Valley Probus: Peter Budd talking about the Spies who changed the World, Backwell Bowls Club, 10.30am.

Writers’ Workshop at Midsomer Norton Library. 10-midday. Limited availability. For more info: 01225 394041 or visit: www.bathnes.gov.uk/libraries Summer piano recital by Kodo Osada.

Concert Hall, Sidcot School, 7pm. Tickets: £7.

For tickets telephone 01934 743965, 01934 732855 or 01934 838676.

Friday June 7th – Sunday June 9th Draycott Strawberry Fayre, family fun night Friday, Strawberry dinner Saturday, fayre day Sunday. Details: enquiries@draycottstrawberryfayre.co.uk Friday June 7th Open Mic Night at Redhill Village Club, BS40 PAGE 112 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2013

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5SG. Hosted by Jerry Blythe, 8pm – all welcome, free admission.

Saturday June 8th Row Farm House and Row Court, Laverton, near Frome, garden open day for Dorothy House Hospice, 2pm-6pm, £5 for both gardens.

Quiz Night with supper in aid of Winscombe Community Centre, 7 for 7.30pm. Tables of six, £6 /person includes supper, please bring your own drinks /glasses. Soft drinks available.

Contact John on 01934 842105.

Celebration Concert by Wells Cathedral Choir to mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Friends of Wells Cathedral. Spanning centuries of music written at and for Wells Cathedral, the music will include Vivaldi Gloria. Tickets: Wells Cathedral Shop, £10 or £15. Details: 01749 678830 Email: info@wellsfriends.org St. Bridget’s, Chelvey open afternoon, 2pm5pm, a chance to see the progress of building work, refreshments. Details: Sue Bougourd 01275 853879 elmtreefarm@btconnect.com or Tony Stirratt 01275 853138 tony.nailseacourt@virgin.net Ubley Village Fete. the Old Manor, Ubley.

2.30pm.

Sunday June 9th Sunday roast lunch at The Three Horseshoes Inn, Batcombe, in aid of the Royal British Legion and Care 4 Casualties. Adults £15, under-10’s £10. Sponsorship by the pub means that £10 from each adult ticket will be donated to the charity of your choice. Two sittings: 12noon and 1.30pm. Book in advance: 01749 850359.

Compton Dando, St. Mary’s Church. Teas and cake will be served between 2 – 5pm.

Profits to the Church Funds. All welcome.

Family Event – Cook’s Field, Nr Priddy, 1.304pm. Mendip Hills Group, Somerset Wildlife Trust. Booking essential – for details contact gerard.keele@btinternet.com or 01278 769010.

Tuesday June 11th – Friday June 14th “A Separate Peace” and “The Real Inspector Hound” – a double bill of two separate one-act plays by Tom Stoppard at 7.30pm in Axbridge Town Hall. Details: www.axbridgecommunitytheatre.org.uk Tickets £9,available through the website, Axbridge chemist, butcher, or post office or ring 07581 569751.

Tuesday June 11th Mendip DFAS (A.G.M.) at 10:00am followed

by The Destruction of the Monasteries: The greatest Act of Artistic Vandalism in English History. Details: 01749 670652.

Wednesday June 12th “David Austin Roses” – a talk by David Bryant for Nailsea & District Horticultural Society, United Reformed Church Hall, Stockway North at 7.30pm.

Christ Church Redhill, coffee time on library day. From 11am – 12.15pm. Profits to the

W h a t ’ s

Children’s Hospice.

Wells Civic Society, Elizabeth Dover, Earth Science tutor, Bath University, rocks and landscapes in the Wells area, Mendip and Wells Museum, 7.30pm.

Friday June 14th Mendip Male Voice Choir Concert at Trowbridge Civic Centre,7pm. Tickets: 01761 413842 or 01761 233948.

Walk – Timsbury:. Details: www.dontwalkalone.co.uk Saturday June 15th Bleadon Village Market – 9-12.30 in the Coronation Halls. Details: www.bleadon.org.uk/market The Somerset Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers Annual Fleece Fair at Hatch Beauchamp Village Hall, TA3 6SG. 10.30am -3pm. Fleeces for sale. Entry £1. Details: 01460 432063 www.somersetguildwsd.org.uk 2013 Somerset Schools Folk Dance Festival, Wells Cathedral Green. Stall pitches available.

For further details about pitches contact Eira Powell: 01749 870568.

Sunday June 16th Compton Dando, St. Mary’s Church. Teas and cake will be served between 2 – 5pm.

Profits to the Church Funds. All welcome.

Syrinx Ensemble present Music for a Summer's Evening. 7.30pm, Henton Village Hall (on B3139 Wells-Wedmore road). Enjoy a candlelit supper in a cafe-style atmosphere whilst listening to a varied programme of music for wind instruments and piano, including works by Poulenc and others. Tickets £14 in advance, £16 on the door (incl cheese & wine supper). For info call 07595 671116 or email: jacquelynbevan@yahoo.co.uk Tuesday June 18th Mendip Male Voice Choir Concert at Hayesfield School, Bath, 7.30pm. Tickets: 01761 413842 or 01761 233948.

Wednesday June 19th Yeo Valley Probus meeting: “Thatchers; this could be the roofing of old cottages, or the production of strong drink. I know what we are hoping for”. Backwell Bowls Club, 10.30am.

Friday June 21st The Grey Dogs (Traditional & Mainstream) at Timsbury Conygre Hall (BA2 0JG) 8pm-11pm.

Tickets £8 on the door. Donation to The Snowdrop Appeal. Details Kate (01761)471245 or www.mendipmusic.com Mendip Male Voice Choir Concert at Holy Trinity Church Paulton, 7pm. Tickets: 01761 413842 or 01761 233948.

Saturday June 22nd Writhlington Methodist Church Centenary, Grand Garden Party 2-5pm in the church garden. Limited number of tickets available at the corner shop.

Summer Fayre, Wedmore Village Hall, (BS28 4SF) 10am-4pm. Stalls, face painting and cup cake decorating activities for children and

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homemade cakes and refreshments. Organised by and all proceeds in support of local branches of Cats Protection. Entry free. Details: 01934 524956 or friendsofweston@live.co.uk

Saturday June 29th Mendip Male Voice Choir Concert, St Johns Church, Keynsham ,7.30pm. Tickets: 01761 413842 or 01761 233948.

Churchill Music! Joe Stilgoe Jazz Trio, 7.30 – 9.45pm at Churchill Academy Hall, Churchill Green, BS25 5QN. Tickets £13.50 (“Champions” £9.50. U-25’s free) from 01934 852919 or “pot luck” on the door. Details: www.churchillmusic.org.uk The sultry sounds of summer. The Beaumont Singers present a sumptuous programme of Gershwin, Elgar, Vaughan Williams, Whitacre, Rutter and Moeran. St Cuthbert’s church, Wells 7.30pm Tickets £10.

Sunday June 23rd Choral Evensong at St Margaret’s Church, Hinton Blewett, 6.30pm. This is an open invitation for all who enjoy singing full traditional evensong to join the choir at rehearsals on June 20th at 7.30pm and 23rd June at 5.30pm. Details: 01761 221500 or 01761 221822.

Compton Dando, St. Mary’s Church. Teas and cake will be served between 2 – 5pm.

Profits to the Church Funds. All welcome Thursday June 27th The Festival Players, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in the wonderful setting of Goblin Combe Lodge, BS40 5PP. Open air performance at 7.30pm so please bring your own seating. Grounds open for picnics from 6pm. Refreshments available. Tickets £14.50 (£8)from 01934 833723 or email: enquiries@goblincombe.org.uk Friday June 28th Glastonbury Male Voice Choir concert in St. Paul’s Church, Easton, Nr Wells, 8pm in aid of St. Paul’s Church. Tickets £10.00 each from Pam 01749 870585 or Jane 01749 870543 Refreshments + glass of wine served at interval.

Saturday June 29th – Saturday July 13th Mendip Calligraphy Group Exhibition at Wells Museum, 10am – 5pm (closed Sundays).

Free entry to exhibition.

Bath Choral Society summer concert, 7.30pm at St Swithin’s Church, The Paragon, Bath. www.bathboxoffice.org.uk Writhlington Village Fete at the village hall, 2pm-6pm, free entry, craft show, car boot and refreshments. Details: 01761 439130.

Sunday June 30th Compton Dando, St. Mary’s Church. Teas and cake will be served between 2 – 5pm.

Profits to the Church Funds. All welcome.

Tuesday July 2nd Mendip DFAS lecture Two London Porcelain Factories: Chelsea and Bow – A Study in Contrasts. Details: 01749 670652 Issy and David Emeney. Midsomer Norton Library. From 7pm Tickets £4 .The Emeneys are just magic in weaving stories into song.

For more info: 01225 394041 or visit: www.bathnes.gov.uk/libraries Friday July 5th – Sunday July 7th Yeo Valley Lions 11th Claverham Beer Festival – Maritime theme with a free beer for anyone in appropriate fancy dress. Several new beers to try. Details: www.claverham-beerfestival.btck.co.uk Saturday July 6th Angel Heart Theatre presents “MasyMeg and the Honey Bees”, a traditional travelling puppet theatre with a magical adventure for everyone over the age of 4. Ubley Parish Hall, 2pm. Tickets £5 (under 4 free) – Contact Jackie on 01761 463373 or Becky 01761

WHAT’S ON

2 0 1 3

463863.

Chewton Mendip Summer Fete, 12.30 -3pm on the school field. Traditional stalls and games with brass band, folk dancing, school choir, tug of war and scarecrow competition.

Summer Serenade with Unity Singers at Barrow Gurney Church at 7.30pm. A delightful evening of popular songs.Tickets, £7 include refreshments. Ring Pat Leighton on 01275 464334 to book.

The Festival Players “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” – performed in the garden of Speeds Farm, Lamyatt, nr Castle Cary. Tickets £15, under 15’s £5. Reservations and details: 01749 812031. All proceeds will go towards maintaining Lamyatt’s beautiful church and to a much-needed improvement project for its tiny village hall.

Midsummer Music at Cleeve Nursery’s 30th anniversary party, 8pm-midnight. Live music including soul, funk, disco and motown from some of the UK’s finest musicians. Bar and food cooked in a wood fired oven. Tickets £11/£9 do not include refreshments. Details and tickets: Cleeve Nursery shop (BS49 4PW), Backwell PO, www.backyardpromotions.org or info@cleevenursery.co.uk Sunday July 7th Compton Dando, St. Mary’s Church. Teas and cake will be served between 2 – 5pm.

Profits to the Church Funds. All welcome.

Wednesday July 10th “Shrubs and Perennials”, a talk by Paul Gilmour for Nailsea & District Horticultural Society, United Reformed Church Hall, Stockway North at 7.30pm.

July 12th – July 20th Somerton Arts Festival. Programme available from June 1st from Overt Locke’s shop, West St, Somerton. Details: 07928 508700.

Please note: we’re always keen to support charities and community groups by offering a free entry on these pages. But space is at a premium and it is very time consuming if we have to open and re-write your posters and press releases. So could you please distil the information down to around 25 words in a single paragraph, in the body of the email so that it can be cut and pasted quickly. Our standard format is: date (stating day of week), event, venue, brief details.

ACROSS: 1 Plum pudding, 7 Sow, 8 Real ale, 9 Turkey, 11 Rude, 12 Somerset, 15 Dover, 16 Christmas, 19 Earnestly, 20 Conor, 21 Nazareth, 24 Reap, 26 Grange, 28 Theresa, 29 Eve, 30 Dairy cattle.

DOWN: 1/3/14 Partridge in a pear tree, 2 Up and over, 4 Due to, 5 ITT, 6 Girls, 7 Sweet, 10 Dessert plate, 13 Early, 16 Cater, 17 Sack, 18 Mincemeat, 21 Nurse, 22 Zoned, 23 Tatty, 25 Vera, 27 EMI.

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Family-friendly – that’s Priddy Folk Festival WHETHER it’s for the entire weekend or just for a day, the Priddy Folk Festival always offers plenty for the entire family to enjoy – and this year’s event promises to be better than ever.

The Priddy Folk Festival started life as a humble Parent Teacher Asssociation fundraiser for the village school. Now in its 22nd year, it has grown to a significant event in the UK folk calendar, attracting thousands of people to the village in July.

Despite its continued growth, the festival is still organised and run entirely by volunteers and any profits are used to support school and community projects. Dean Collier, festival chairman, said: “The festival seems to get better and better every year. We’re really proud of the good feedback that we get from our audiences and proud to be able put on something so dynamic that also supports the community.”

The line up for 2013 includes the Scottish 12-piece Celtic band Treacherous Orchestra, who played at this year’s Radio 2 Folk Awards. Their high-octane performance is one of the most keenly anticipated events of the festival, along with musicians such as the Tom McConville Band, Kris Drever and Éamonn Coyne, Faustus and many more.

As well as the official line-up, the festival always plays host to a multitude of ad-hoc free performances, whether it’s in the beer gardens of the Queen Victoria pub to the village green and camping fields. There are also ceilidhs and late night dances, a children’s festival within the festival, workshops on music and crafts, guided walks, a market place, and a club tent which hosts local artists and open-mic sessions.

Food and drink is available from a wide variety of stalls, as

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Beth Porter and The Availables in the club marquee at last year’s festival

well as the festival bars and village pub.

As well as the professional musicians, this year will see a repeat performance by GCSE and A level students from Wells Blue School. They have been learning their skills from a folk music lecturer from Newcastle University, Will Lang, who the festival commissioned for the project.

Dean added: “Their performance on Saturday morning is free to the public, and if it’s anything like last year, is going to be one of the highlights of the weekend. After all, it’s not just about showcasing established musicians – it’s about supporting emerging talent too.”

The festival kicks off on Friday, July 12th and runs through until Sunday, July 14th. For more information, visit: www.priddyfolk.org

Harvest home “best ever” Swildon’s Marquee will play host to some of the biggest names in folk

THE Mark Harvest Home committee asked local residents what could be done to make 2013 the best Harvest Home yet! Many local residents got involved and this year exciting new changes will be made which promises to keep the tradition alive and provide a family fun event.

Luncheon tickets will now provide reserved seating ensuring you can sit with your friends and family! Villagers will pack together on Saturday August 10th to enjoy a scrumptious feast in a lively community atmosphere, with plenty of traditional food, ale and entertainment on offer, followed by family fun games, free children’s disco and afternoon tea.

The evening event starts with Tug of War at 7.30pm with live music, a hog roast and a bar, under new management.

Mark Harvest Home are offering combined tickets (entry to luncheon and evening) for £24 for one night only, tickets go on sale on Thursday July 4th, Mark Church Hall, 6.30-9pm.

Tickets can be purchased individually; luncheon £17 and evening £8 prior to the event. Evening tickets can be purchased on the door for £10.

Details: To enter a Tug of War team or purchase tickets please contact Jeff Fear on 01278 783261.

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