Mendiptimes - Volume 9 - Issue 11

Mendip Times

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Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

APRIL 2014

IN THIS ISSUE: FOCUS ON CHEDDAR • SPRING BRIDES • EDUCATION • GARDENING • RAIL HISTORY • WHAT’S ON Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

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MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

AT last some sunshine – and as Mendip stirs from winter the number of shows and other events starts to increase, as you will see from our growing What’s On pages. We offer the chance to win tickets to Bath Races and the North Somerset Show.

Hedgelaying is another sign of the season – we’ve pictures from two local competitions. Some villages take the pancake day tradition to heart – we’ve pictures from those too.

Our gardening and homes and interiors sections have also grown, as the promise of spring stirs people into action.

The weather has been on everyone’s minds and Chris Sperring reports on how the cold and wet have caused the barn owl population to crash in the last couple of years. On a happier note Somerset Wildlife Trust has announced plans to invest £500,000 in woodlands to mark its 50th anniversary next year.

Wookey Hole Club is also celebrating an anniversary – its 130th – and we look back at the history of the club and how it plans to celebrate.

The rejuvenated traders association in Cheddar has plans for Easter – we have a special feature. As well as focusing on spring weddings and education, we have all of our usual features and expert contributors.

Enjoy spring with us.

May 2014 deadline: Thursday, 17th April 2014.

Published: Tuesday, 29th April 2014.

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: Great Cheddar Cake-off (see page 21).

Photograph by Steve Egginton

A cut above the rest – hedgelayers compete

12

38

Flat out – pancake races hit the streets

39

All that jazz – Market House celebrations in Castle Cary

90

Good neigh-bours – village welcomes the Cranmore Ride

Plus all our regular features Environment...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE..........10 Arts & Antiques ...........................24 Business ........................................28 Food & Drink...............................30 Internet and Crossword..............37 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......49 Walking Sue Gearing....................50 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........52 Gardening Mary Payne MBE ......54

Charities .......................................64 Community Simon Selby .............71 Family Mendip Mum....................72 Health Dr Phil Hammond.............72 Homes and Interiors....................76 Music.............................................84 Sport..............................................87 Riding Celia Gadd ........................90 Caving Phil Hendy........................92 What’s On ....................................93 MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 3

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MENDIP TIMES

Shall we dance?

Teatime in Chew Stoke

NEWS

A SPECTACULAR “posh” afternoon tea, The Ritz Experience, was held by Chew Stoke Church Hall social committee to raise funds towards the hall’s renovation.

Dance partners: Eileen and Muriel at a Ladies Wot Dance session

AGE is certainly no barrier when it comes to taking part in weekly dance classes in Midsomer Norton – just ask good friends Muriel Reynolds and Eileen Maggs.

Muriel, of Timsbury, recently celebrated her 90th birthday and Eileen, of Paulton, was 85 a few days later.

Both are enthusiastic supporters of the informal drop-in class at the Somer Centre called Ladies Wot Dance, led each Wednesday by Terri Oliver.

Muriel began attending the drop-in sessions around three years ago and Eileen joined soon afterwards. Eileen said: “Everyone is so friendly and no-one minds if you make a mistake. It keeps me fit and learning the routines also keeps my mind active.”

G The classes take place each Wednesday morning from 10am11am.

Birthday girls: Eileen and Muriel are presented with birthday flowers by their dance friends

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 5

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MENDIP TIMES

GIVEN the incessantly bad weather the West Country has been having, perhaps most people are sick of anything meteorological in nature.

Then again, perhaps a change of setting would be refreshing!

Growing up in Somerset, the steady progression of the seasons – spring into with OLLY summer into autumn into winter – is deeply GRIFFIN rooted in my subconscious understanding of the way the world works, so to now be living within jogging distance of the equator throws things off a little.

The slight tilt to the Earth’s axis, which is the major cause of our familiar northern hemisphere seasons, has a significantly smaller effect here; the Sun, instead of fluctuating between being more, then less overhead at midday, pretty much stays overhead for the whole year.

This, along with the vast expanse of forest that fills the Congo basin and surrounding area, produces a different pattern of seasonal change. This pattern is typically broken down into alternating seasons of wet and dry, of varying lengths and intensities.

The average monthly rainfall in my area for October (the peak of the short, intense wet season) is close to three metres (10ft) and for July (peak of the long dry season) is about 10 centimetres (four inches). Temperatures are consistently hot, peaking at an average maximum of 30°C (86°F) in the wet seasons, and dropping to an average minimum of 18°C (64°F) in the dry. This all results in two growing seasons and can take a while to get used to.

Rains are often accompanied by thunder and lightning and this region does neither in half measures. The UK receives roughly five lightning strikes per square kilometre per year; by contrast, the small village of Kifuka in the Democratic Republic of the Congo receives more than 150.

Given that only 10% of lightning in the tropics counts as a ‘strike’ (by hitting the ground – the other 90% occurs within and between clouds, and is known respectively as infra- and intercloud lightning) this means a lot of thunder.

In a good storm, the noise is near-continuous: a chest-rattling, rolling boom, often making it impossible to attribute a thunder clap to a flash of lightning, except for those occurring so close that the blinding flash and the head-cracking boom happen in the same instant. It is often little comfort to remind yourself that such eardrum rupturing rumbles should be reassuring: if you hear the thunder, it means you didn’t get hit by the lightning!

I’m not the only one here to find such storms exhilarating: every time heavy rains come to the village where I spend half my time I see one of the village boys run gleefully to the train station, where he spends much of the storm running and diving belly-first onto the now wet and slippery tiles of the station floor, sliding for most of the length of the building before jumping up and sliding back the other way again.

Former Sidcot pupil, Olly Griffin, who grew up on a dairy farm at Kingston Seymour, near Clevedon is currently working on a conservation project in a remote area of Gabon, on the west coast of Africa.

Birdwatching tribute

A NEW observation hide dedicated to one of the pioneers of the Hawk and Owl Trust has been officially opened at Shapwick Moor nature reserve, near Glastonbury.

Barbara Handley, who lived near Priddy, died last year. The hide – the Trust’s first on the reserve – was unveiled on Saturday, March 8th.

HOT now leads all the public

engagement and family events on the Avalon Marshes. Three are planned for the coming months: Sunday, April 27th, Sunday, June 1st and Sunday, September 14th.

After a year’s break, Avalon 24 will return in May: 24 hours of guided walks and activities on the Avalon Marshes. It takes place on Saturday, May 24th and Sunday, May 25th.

Guests arrive for the opening of the Barbara Handley observation hide

For more information, visit: www.hawkandowl.org • See Wildlife page 49

PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

(Photography courtesy of Laila Bahaa-el-din)

Lightning can strike more than twice!

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ENVIRONMENT

Procession has big turnout OVER 150 walkers, cyclists and supporters turned out to support the Coffin Lane campaign for a footpath and cycleway between Axbridge and Cross.

Sustrans, the cycling organisation, and representatives of Axbridge Town Council and Compton Bishop Parish Council joined protesters in Axbridge Town Square. There was a rousing send off from the Axbridge Singers with a specially written song called ‘A Safe Path to Cross’.

The coffins were a reminder of the days

when deceased residents of the workhouse were carried down this route to St Andrews Church, Compton Bishop.

Organisers fear it’s only a matter of time before there’s a fatal accident on this narrow and busy stretch of road.

The procession ended at the New Inn where Tessa Munt, MP, joined the campaigners and listened to the strong feeling that action was needed now. She pledged her support.

Peter Harding, Chairman of the Axbridge Action Group, said: “Our aim to develop more pedestrian friendly

Golden year for wildlife

WOODLAND on Mendip will benefit from a new fundraising campaign to mark the 50th anniversary of the Somerset Wildlife Trust.

The charity is organising a series of events in the coming months to celebrate the Somerset landscape and hopes people will support its efforts by raising £500,000 for further conservation work.

The trust is launching its year of celebrations with Love Somerset, Love Woodland at two nature reserves, Quants, on the Blackdown Hills on Saturday, April 5th and at Harridge Woods, near Oakhill, Shepton Mallet, on Saturday, April 12th.

The free, drop-in events will include egg hunting, wildwalks, nature trails, craft and bushcraft activities. Events later in the year will celebrate the county’s meadows, seas and wetlands.

Amongst the projects to benefit from the fundraising campaign are coppicing Mendip woodlands for dormice, wetland re-creation for bittern on the Somerset Levels and grazing grasslands for green winged orchids in South Somerset.

Simon Nash, Somerset Wildlife Trust chief executive said: “As custodian of more than 1,700 hectares of vital wildlife

streets and slow the transit of vehicles through the town would benefit from a safe pathway and cycleway from Axbridge to Cross and we fully support the Coffin Lane campaign.”

Tess Gill who coordinates the campaign said: “I am delighted at the turnout. It shows the strength of feeling that there must be an alternative to this dangerous road for walkers and cyclists. Our next step is to get Somerset County Council to convene a round table discussion with all those involved to agree a project plan and approach funders.”

Dormice on Mendip are to benefit from the trust’s efforts

habitat, Somerset Wildlife Trust is leading the way in local conservation.

“In our anniversary year we want to do more to protect the things that local people love most about Somerset. Our natural environment inspires and provides for us all so we’re asking individuals and community groups who love nature to join us and do more for wildlife this year.”

Simon will be talking at a Love Somerset, Love Wildlife roadshow in Wells on Tuesday, April 29th. The event, organised by the Wells Area Group, takes place from 7.30-9pm at Wells and Mendip Museum. Admission costs £2.50 for members, £3 non-members.

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MENDIP TIMES

ENVIRONMENT

Landmark at Landmark

The completed turbine

Cranes prepare to install the main section of the turbine

M EN D IP

WE AT HE R

S C E N E

A NEW wind turbine has been installed on farmland at Wanstrow, near Frome.

The 40-metre high structure – the blades reach more than 50 metres – was installed in just two days at Landmark Farm by Distributed Generation, a developer from Long Ashton of medium-sized wind energy projects. The turbine will be operated as a community project. DisGen says it is expected to yield an estimated 1,000 MWh -1,500 MWh per year.

The Wanstrow turbine is the company’s fourth installation. The work suffered months of delay due to the wet weather.

Engineers fix the first of the blades into place

At last, some good news – but will it last?

ALL of a sudden the world seems a happier place – the floods are starting to go down, people are going round with a smile and even the weather presenters appear a lot more cheerful when they do their broadcasts.

Of course, I write this in mid-March with DAVID after a few days of dry weather.

MAINE Nobody likes to be the bearer of bad news, and the weather forecasters have been much in the firing line recently as it has not been much fun giving out forecast after forecast with the same old, depressingly bad news.

Never have I seen such a long period when a succession of deepening Atlantic lows has affected much the same part of the UK, one after the other, without a break. Nearly three months in all and my December to February rainfall total of 693.7mm (or 2’3” in old money) must have been an all-time record, as it has been over much of the country.

Then, all of a sudden, it comes to an end. The jet stream finally decided to take off to the north early in March, pressure has been rising strongly and, for a week now, we

PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Springtime in Shepton Mallet’s Collett Park

have been enjoying typical anticyclonic weather – mostly dry, some warm sunshine, light winds and patchy cloud coming and going. Who minds a bit of fog and frost in the mornings?

Happy Easter! Next time I write we will be approaching May, one of my favourite months of the year.

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Did you see the story of the senior army officer who gives his juniors instructions on manners, table etiquette, use of knives and forks, etc?

Brave, foolish or thick skinned? We all have faults and failings, as well as good points and all hope to be accepted for what we are not what someone else wants to make us.

Some acceptable standards have slipped, whether it is politeness, common courtesies and kindnesses, clear and coherent speech or an instinct for knowing what is right and what is not. Everyone has an opinion on what has gone wrong: “I blame the schools” says one, “it’s the TV and violent films” says another; “it’s down to the parents”, “it’s too much money”, “it’s too little money”, “lack of National Service”, “no discipline”, etc. We may not be as nice as we were but, in general, people are good, kind and caring, in many ways better than previous generations.

Over time, changes are noticeable. Not that long ago we and our clients and colleagues referred to each other as Mr and Mrs - Christian names rarely used. People were invariably calm, polite and respectful instead of nowadays being occasionally aggressive, questioning and challenging.

People in court used to turn up in their smartest clothes, were sensibly respectful to the judge/magistrates, appropriately chastened and contrite when sentenced. Occasionally now defendants have to be told to stand when speaking to the judge and to remove their hands from their pockets, looking puzzled whilst doing so. I have often had defendants say things like “okay mate” in reply to a magistrate.

Certainly times are changing but aren’t we lucky to live where we do, among a diverse and wonderful group of people? So what if one or two are a bit grumpy, look at them carefully and you will find other great attributes. Probably the best part of my job is meeting others, working with them, helping them and enjoying their company.

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

Website: www.bgw.uk.com

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MENDIP TIMES

After the floods comes renewal

THE National Farmers Union is a very male dominated organisation, particularly at top level where the 70 or more ruling council has only had four or five ladies in the last 20 years!

I was fortunate to be one of them, but now, after 106 years, the NFU has a lady deputy With MARY president! Minette Batters is a tenant farmer JAMES MBE from Wiltshire and specialises in beef production. If you have ever heard of ‘Ladies in Beef’ Minette was one of the driving forces behind it. I wish her the very best of luck in her new role.

It really looks a bit more like spring. Snowdrops, daffodils, daisies and dandelions. When the sun shines the cows are restless and want to be out. Although the land is draining well here the gateways are very wet. The farmers on the Somerset Levels are looking at a different picture. The water is receding but the mess it leaves is horrendous.

It is so heartening that there are so many offers of help, particularly from Young Farmers Club members, even from Essex, as well as local clubs. The number of volunteers helping farms and households has been amazing and much appreciated. They have not been dithering behind pieces of paper!

Due to the length of time many areas have been flooded, the recovery of the farm land is a long-term process. Once the land has been drained and all the rubbish and debris removed it needs to be restored in a farmable condition. This means the recovery of

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PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

the land, for soil, re-seeding forage and crops.

Boundaries and fences will need to be repaired and drainage systems, tracks and roads will need to be restored to a usable condition. As well as that machinery will have to be replaced and buildings cleared for use.

I mentioned all the charities involved last month; donations have been flooding in and more will be needed especially for regeneration and dredging of the rivers. I know some farmers will find it difficult to ask for help but it is what they will have to do. I see grants will have to be applied for online so I hope the officials will appreciate that some farmers do not have computers We can look forward to the show season now beginning with the North Somerset at Wraxall on May 5th which has more livestock classes this year, a full complement of trade stands plus a display by the Bristol Mounted Police. The Royal Bath and West Show on May 28th – 31st at Shepton Mallet will host the British Cheese Awards and the first British Cider Championships as well as a multitude of exciting events.

After a long and miserable winter, finally we have something to look forward to!

Young farmers celebrate

FROME Young Farmers Club members have been celebrating.

At the YFC’s county AGM Frome was named the best young farmers club in the county and the most improved over the last year.

Lambing for the Levels

SHEEP farmers David and Diana Ginger are to open their farm at Rodney Stoke to the public at Easter to raise funds for those affected by flooding on the Somerset Visitors can get close up to the sheep and lambs Levels.

The couple last opened Scaddens Farm to visitors 14 years ago, when they were raising funds for the local church and school.

On Good Friday, April 18th and Easter Saturday, April 20th the farm, in Scaddens Lane, will be open from 2pm6pm with all donations going to farming-related charities.

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Enjoy a great day out at the North Somerset Show IF you’re looking for a fun day out on Monday bank Holiday May 5th, then look no further than the North Somerset Show!

The annual show, which is celebrating its 155th year, is an opportunity for everyone to experience a traditional taste of rural life. As always, this year’s show promises to be an action-packed day, showing off the best of the region’s livestock, rural activities and pursuits, food, drink, arts and crafts.

Of course the traditional livestock and horse showing takes centre stage, but the organisers are excited to offer a wide range of sights, experiences and activities to entertain and inform – there is most definitely something for everyone.

The society is proud that the traditional agricultural showing element remains at the heart of the event. This year has so far proved challenging for many farmers (grass hasn’t been growing very well, if at all, in soggy fields and cows in particular are not in as good condition as they should be at this time of year) but entries are good and the competition promises to be strong.

Livestock showing rings will welcome a new Kerry Hill section (a Welsh breed with distinctive black markings on its face and legs). There are extra classes in the Mountain & Moorland Ponies and Heavy Horse sections which have proved popular, alongside the familiar horse showing classes and Show Jumping event.

Trade stands form an integral part of the day; you can source everything from socks to a whole new kitchen. This year sees around 250 individual stands and of course the Food Hall; a marquee bursting at the seams with delicious pies, pastries, meat, cheese, chillies, cider and much more from around the region for

FARMING

you to take home and enjoy.

The countryside area, located just off the main field, celebrates traditional crafts such as spinning, dry stone walling and gun dog handling. The Poultry and Wildfowl Show will be returning, there’s Fergus the Tractor, the famous Sheep Show and of course terrier racing; a mad cap, hilarious event where members of the public can enter their dogs into a short racing event – if you’ve never experienced it, this is an event not to be missed!

Events will be running in the main ring throughout the day and this year the exhilarating Knights of the Damned jousting team will be returning along with a promising new display by the mounted section of the Avon and Somerset Constabulary. As if that’s not enough, there’s a whole host of other events culminating in the livestock parade towards the end of the day.

Children under five go free, parking is free, bikes are welcome and you can cycle almost all the way from Bristol along the Festival Way. Dogs are welcome on non-retractable leads.

WIN TICKETS

Mendip Times has teamed up with the organisers to offer two free family tickets. Just answer this question: What anniversary is the show celebrating? Answers on a postcard to North Somerset Show Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG. The first two correct answers drawn will win the tickets. The editor’s decision is final. Closing date: Thursday April 17th.

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 11

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C om pe ti ti on at t he cu tt in g ed ge MORE than 20 hedgelayers took part in the annual MidSomerset Show competition, held this year on land at Whatley, near Frome.

Organisers say the event is now firmly established with entrants coming from across Somerset and further afield. The hedgelaying competition has a serious purpose. Organisers identify a stretch of hedge which has either become overgrown or neglected. As well as a test of skill, the aim is to end up with a hedge which looks attractive, is stock proof and helps wildlife.

Ian Harvey, chairman of the Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society, said: “A huge transformation of the hedge has been achieved.”

Mike Reed, of Chew Magna, won the Open class. The novice class was won by Colin Ridson, of Hemyock, near Wellington.

Winners Colin Ridson (left) and Mike Reed

Top shots

The hedge before the competition began

National ladies champion Tina Bath

Retired builder Keith Lintern, of West Pennard, was competing in his first match

THIS year’s competition at Bangle Farm – by kind permission of Angela Yeoman – took on an added country pursuits theme with a clay pigeon shoot being held alongside. The shoot, organised by Southfield Sporting, attracted 100 competitors. In the open class, Pete Dennett top scored with 38. The ladies class was won by Sarah Denning with 24 and James Howell took the junior class with 23.

Organisers said they were delighted with the number of entries PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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Roger Parris at work

(l:r): Show society chairman Ian Harvey, Mike Reed, Colin Ridson, Angela Yeoman and show society president Roger Penny

A spectator admires the finished hedge

Eventual winner Mike Reed checks his work

A section of the completed hedge

HEDGELAYING

View of the lake

THE Wrington and Burrington Hedging Society had 37 entries for its annual match held at Nempnett Thrubwell, overlooking Blagdon Lake, courtesy of the Hellier family.

Winners (l to r) Alex Hanham, Winscombe, beginners; Colin Ridson, Hemyock, class 2; Mike Reed, Chew Magna, champion; Keith Lintern, West Pennard, improvers Judges Stuart Ford (left) and Alan Bartlett

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 13

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MENDIP TIMES

Community art show

WELLS Town Hall is to host a community art show in April with the emphasis on “you”.

The exhibition has been organised by housing association Aster Communities, supported by Wells Community Education Partnership, Compass Disability, Wells Town Hall, the Blue School and Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

Titled All About You, the exhibition will depict themes such as “how you see yourself”, “how you see others”, “how others may see you”, or “what’s around you”. It will be held in the Town Hall on Tuesday, April 8th and Wednesday, April 9th.

NEWS

Justice is done to courtrooms

Pensford party

The Mayor of Wells, Theo Butt Philip with town crier Len Sweales after the opening of the Court Room

THE new owners of Pensford Post Office Stores have been treated to a party by the village after suffering some set-backs when they took over, suffering a burglary and a smashed window.

Good neighbour Jane Flower and her friends organised a party in the nearby Church Rooms, attended by about 50 people. Jane said: “We thought we would treat them to a party of welcome, as they had such a bad start.”

THE ending of court sittings in Wells Town Hall has led to the development of two new function rooms.

The Court Room and The Gallery Bar were officially opened by the Mayor of Wells, Theo Butt Philip, who criticised the Ministry of Justice for their decision to end magistrates sitting in the city.

He said: “The Ministry of Justice has made a colossal mistake in stopping magistrates meeting locally. I hope one day they will change their mind, but we have taken the opportunity to create something out of the empty spaces which is attractive and useful to the community.”

The main body of the former Court Room has been turned into a multi-purpose room, designed to accommodate meetings, classes and other events; the former public gallery has been developed into a separate room which will serve as a new bar.

AXBRIDGE celebrated its fourth civic service, with the presentation of two civic awards to local residents, Edith Channon for her work with the Royal British Legion and Methodist Church and Stella Moore for her work with Axbridge Singers.

Pictured (left to right) are Town Bailiff Maggie Tur, Mayor John Albone, Stella Moore, the High Sherriff of Somerset, Mrs. Maureen Whitmore, Edith Channon, Mayoress Sue Albone, Sergeant of Mace Bearer Richard Cottis ande Tur.

VISUAL artists Peter Margerum and Ruth Worsley led an art workshop at Sandford Primary School to teach pupils about the ancient history of Mendip.

Year 6 students created artworks representing the many wild animals that roamed the area thousands of years ago. From hyena to Peter and Ruth with Sandford horses, mammoth to mice pupils many bones have been found in cave excavations there over the last two centuries.

The workshop was part of the Discovering Black Down project being run by the Mendip Hills AONB. It was followed up by a visit to Burrington Hams, where the children acted out what life was like there thousands of years ago.

Ruth said: “It’s very much a community project. We are delighted the school wish to learn more about this beautiful and historic area. The children’s artwork will be incorporated into an interpretation currently being planned for the site.”

Axbridge civic service

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Ancient Mendip inspires pupils

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MENDIP TIMES

HIRE

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Cheddar celebrates Easter

TRADERS in Cheddar are planning an Easter Chick Hunt around the village, following their very successful Cheddar Festive Night, held before Christmas.

The Traders Association has many of the businesses in the village supporting this and hopes it will boost the profile of the village. Mendip Times is happy to support them with this Focus on Cheddar feature.

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katie-boo.com

I offer professional support for owner-managed businesses and small companies, including • Business planning and advice • Management and year-end accounts • Budgets and forecasts • Tax returns and tax planning • Payroll and VAT • Company secretarial services For a free initial consultation contact Helen Bardle at

7 Cliff Street, Cheddar, BS27 3PT Tel 01934 744333 or 07974 343335 Email helen@helenbardle.co.uk PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

CHEDDAR Lions have started distributing money raised from their Tree of Light at Christmas. They presented Shipham Scouts with £200 towards a new tent.

Spring – time to decorate

LANES Homehardware have become a Dulux Colour and Advice Centre. This status has been achieved through complying with strict criteria on staff training and the depth of range available in-store.

A large selection of ready-mixed coloured emulsion is stocked and a further 1500 colours are available through an in-store paint mixing service. The latest paint mixing machine is equipped with a scanner which allows samples of fabric or paint etc to be matched against the Dulux colour pallet.

Until the end of April there is a discount of 25% off all coloured interior emulsion, which includes the mixed and ready mixed, making it an ideal time to commence those delayed decorating projects! If you are unsure of what colour to choose, call in for a colour card or tester pot and create your own personal colour scheme.

Fashion experts

KATIE-BOO is a family-run business in Cheddar. They have been trading for seven years this year, selling ladies clothing (Seasalt, Amari and Great Plains), accessories and much more.

They have just had their beautiful spring/summer lines in, with vibrant colours and stunning bold prints to brighten up any wardrobe – with sizes from 8-18, prices starting from £12.50 who could resist?

They don’t just sell clothes; they have bags, purses, scarves and the ever popular “odd socks”. Plus they sell locally made jewellery including necklaces, rings, earrings and hair clips from (£5-£8). Why not call in for yourself? A warm welcome awaits you at Katie-boo.

Find them on Facebook as well. They are holding a fashion show on Wednesday May 14th, 7.30pm at Cheddar football club; phone for more details.

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FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

Spend Easter with us!

We’re part of the Cheddar Traders Easter Chick Hunt We have our own Easter egg hunt in the pub garden April 4th–April 21st Music for the Easter weekend in the pub garden: Copperhead – 9pm on Saturday April 19th Steve James from 3pm on Sunday April 20th Full menu with seasonal Easter specials, starting with breakfast from 9am every day

2 for 1 breakfast with this advert

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 17

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New base for food bank

CHEDDAR Valley Plus food bank has new, bigger premises in Cheddar and will look to open new hubs in places like Axbridge and Winscombe once the new centre is established.

Since it opened in December it’s provided emergency food boxes for 52 adults and 25 children, referred from local agencies.

Matthew Dumelow and Sue As well as Cheddar, the food Albone bank has helped families in Axbridge, Sandford and Wedmore. The new unit is behind VADO in Unit 4 of the Wessex Business Centre, in Cheddar.

The food bank is in the process of being registered as a charity and is about to start courses in budgeting for people referred to it. It has two tons of food in stock ready for those in crisis who need it.

The food bank is supported entirely by fundraising – chairman Matthew Dumelow’s 10-year-old daughter, Sophie, will do a sponsored walk across the Mendips at Easter. It’s planning an open day on Saturday April 26th.

Details: 01934 742500

Fully Licensed Traditional Tea Rooms Home Cooked Menu • Homemade Cakes Loose Leaf Teas • Fresh Ground Coffee Local Cider • Wines • Local Beer Breakfast • Light Lunches • High Tea Famous Traditional Cream Teas

The Cliffs, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3QE

01934 742288 enquiries@derrickstearoom.co.uk www.derrickstearoom.co.uk PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Tea and a slice of history

SIMON Cooze and his wife Bonnie bought a piece of Cheddar Gorge’s history, when they took over Derrick’s Tea Rooms seven years ago.

The Derrick family had it for a century, latterly Tony Derrick, who had run it with his mother Marjorie.

The historic tea shop is the only one in the Gorge to have retained its original name, but has moved with the times. It’s received a Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor and three Awards of Excellence from the UK Tea Council in the last three years. As well as fine home-made food, the shop sells gifts, local cheeses, ales and cider.

Simon and Bonnie gave up careers in Essex to move to Cheddar. Simon said: “We’d been let down by the quality and service of some tea rooms we’d been to and thought we could do it better. We saw this place and just fell in love with it.”

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FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

Holiday lodge/investment property open weekend TO celebrate a very successful first year in business and to support English Tourism Week Strawberryfield Park near Cheddar is holding an open weekend on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th of April to showcase its range of holiday lodges for sale.

Strawberryfield Park is a select development of architect designed contemporary eco-holiday lodges. Set in 14 acres of beautiful Somerset countryside the Park commands stunning views of the Mendip Hills and Somerset Levels. Buyers can choose from remaining secluded plots and can personalise the design, layout, decoration and furnishings with expert help and advice on hand.

Mike Pearce, managing Director, said: “Last years’s event was a great success. This year we have lots more planned, anyone looking for a holiday home or investment property will find it very interesting.�

Expert holiday letting agent Blue Chip Holidays are the managing agents for the park. They hold the largest portfolio of four and five star self-catering accommodation in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset and the isle of Wight.

Sam Wigglesworth, Head of Product Development, said: “Strawberryfield Park has been a great success. Pepper’s Lodge is a 5-star platinum property and is currently our best performing property from a list of over 900 others, having

received some fantastic reviews. Investors in Strawberryfield Park can currently expect a net return on investment in excess of 15% p.a.�

The weekend will be opened on Saturday April 5th at 10am by local MP Tessa Munt, who is a keen supporter of Somerset Tourism Association. Many other trade partners will be available to provide information and to give expert advice on things like lodge manufacture and technical detail, hot tubs and wood burning stoves.

Blue Chip Holidays will be there to give information and advice on letting and investment returns. James Heappy, Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the Wells Constituency will be supporting the event on Sunday.

The event is open to all who are interested between 10am and 4pm on both days. Please call Mike on 07909 524 953 for more information or directions.

Strawberryfield Park Draycott, Cheddar

contemporary - eco holiday lodges for sale G 2/3 bedroom open plan lodges oered for sale with long lease op ons G Sole owner occupier use or holiday let for ideal investment opportunity G Beau ful loca on, tranquil se ng G Generous size plots, established landscaping and hot tubs

Investors Open Weekend

Saturday April 5th and Sunday April 6th 10am-4pm

Get expert advice from the developer, lodge manufacturer, le ng agent and many more related trade partners and view our range of lodges.

Pepper’s Lodge, currently let by Blue Chip Holidays, is on target to achieve an impressive 15% return on investment.

Call 07909 524 953 or visit www.strawberryfieldpark.co.uk for more information

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 19

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Axe Valley’s new service

Caring for your animals 24 hours a day 365 days a year All consultations by appointment Blackford 01934 712229 Monday - Friday 8am-6.30pm Saturday 8.30am-12pm Sunday 9am-10am Consulting: Monday - Friday 9am-11am & 4.30pm-6.30pm Saturday 9am-10am Sunday 9am-10am Cheddar 01934 741292 Monday-Friday 8.30am-4.30pm Consulting: Monday-Friday 9am-10am & 2.30pm-3.30 Closed Saturday and Sunday Wells 01749 670966 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.30am-6.30pm Saturday 9am-1pm Consulting: Monday and Wednesday 9am-11am and 4.30pm-6.30pm Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 11am-1pm and 4.30pm-6.30pm Saturday 9am-11am

www.axevalleyvets.co.uk

• • • •

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

the KINGS heAD

AXE Valley Vets in Cheddar have introduced a new service.

Nurse clinics are available by appointment on alternate Tuesdays between 9am-11am.

Services include new kitten and puppy checks, advice on chronic diseases, weight clinic, golden oldies checks, microchipping and routine post-op checks.

Nurses clinics are also held in Blackford, Monday-Friday, by appointment between 3pm-5pm and at Wells on Monday and Wednesday, by appointment. Nurse consulations are free of charge.

Get on your bike

CHEDDAR Cycle Store will help you get out on your bike this summer. They stock a brilliant selection of quality new bikes in their showrooms at the start of the Strawberry Line cycle path on the Valley Line Industrial Estate, in Cheddar.

They range from big brands such as Dawes, Kona, Genesis and Ridley, plus children’s bikes, hybrid, electric, touring, mountain and road – it’s the place to buy your new bike.

They also offer repairs and services – no job is too big or too small, and they stock a huge range of parts, accessories Discovery Sport and clothing.

Traditional service

Traditional 17th century thatched inn, the oldest in Cheddar

Open 4pm – Late Monday to Friday 12 Noon – Late Saturday and Sunday Live music every Thursday with traditional Folk music or an Open Acoustic night. All are welcome to join in.

Live performers every weekend – call for details.

Pub quiz on Sundays Bar snacks and hot pies served daily.

A good locals’ pub where all are warmly welcome. Probably the cheapest pub in Cheddar.

1, Silver Street, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3LE Tel 01934 436229 kingsheadcheddar@outlook.com

PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

The Wishing Well Tea Rooms Morning Coffee Light Lunches Cream Teas Sandwiches Home-made Cakes

01934 742142

THE Wishing Well is an attractive family-run business, which has been going for nearly 50 years near the bottom of Cheddar Gorge.

Specialities include deluxe cream teas served on cake stands and homecooked Sunday roast lunches. It offers a traditional waitress service complete with bone-china crockery to make your visit memorable.

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The Great Cheddar Cake Off

LOCAL residents of Cheddar turned out in force to support Weston Hospicecare’s Great Cheddar Cake Off, which raised £580 for the charity.

The glorious morning meant the cake sale got off to a fantastic start with an abundance of cakes being brought in by supporters to sell to the public. Several local Cheddar businesses also lent a helping hand and donated some delicious treats to sell at the event and some fantastic prizes for the raffle.

Owners Elaine and Chris of The Sitting Room helped judge the competition cakes on the day. The winners were: Ashleigh Starr for best sponge, Vera Bancroft for best decorated for her special Mother’s Day Cake and the under 16s trophy went to Thomas Walsh with his Mary Berry’s orange butterfly cakes.

The event was heavily supported by the local community in Cheddar, including Cheddar Gorgeous WI and the hospice’s volunteers, who kindly gave up their mornings to help serve cake, tea and coffee.

Members of Cheddar Gorgeous WI

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

Pictured (l to r) Weston Hospicecare's chief executive Gill Auden, community fundraiser Louisa James and chairman of trustees, Di Litton

Pictured (l to r) Katie Nicholls, Croyde Pittman, Karen Pittman and Georgia Hemmings

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 21

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Cheddar Cottage celebrates

THE family-run Cheddar Cottage, in Cheddar has had an enviable reputation for providing first class Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine since 1994, winning five-star hygiene awards for the last seven years.

Now to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year it’s about to offer its customers a birthday present. From April 1st it’s decided to stop selling alcohol and instead invite customers to take their own alcoholic drinks to have with their meals.

The restaurant has a reputation for supporting the local community, particularly with charity nights. Anwar Hussain, who runs Cheddar Cottage, said: “The recession has hurt a lot of people, who may not want to spend so much on drink with their meals. By introducing BYO our customers can still enjoy our special food and service and save money on their drinks.”

Soft drinks and mixers will still be sold and there will be a limit of a litre on the size of bottles taken in and a two-hour limit on tables. But there will be no corkage fee for people taking in alcohol to enjoy with their meals. Cheddar Cottage recommends customers park at Budgens.

See their website for details: www.cheddarcottage.com

Court House is special

Fine food, fine service and save money on drinks!

COURT HOUSE R E T I RE M E N T H O M E C H E D D A R

Accommodation available now with full en-suite Court house is a very special place to live, the very fact that it is made up of different areas of accommodation adds to its attraction. e Main house with gracious large rooms with full en-suite looking out onto different aspects and personalized with Resident’s own furniture and pictures etc. A spacious Drawing Room with doors to a covered veranda and patio area leading onto lawns and flower beds. e Courtyard which has lovely vaulted accommodation with full en-suite and cleverly concealed kitchenettes where Residents can make a cup of tea or a snack for themselves or their guests and small raised gardens so that the people living there may, if they so wish plant and tend their own flowers. e lovely cottage accommodation full of character with a large Victorian style conservatory looking towards St. Andrews Church and doors opening out from a lovely sitting room to a tranquil garden.

Putting all of this together with the very special care given by dedicated staff that respect and give privacy and dignity to all who live here, you can see why people who come to live at Court house are so happy to have found this very special place.

Respite Care also available

“One of the most beautiful and well kept retirement homes I’ve ever seen”.

– e Photographer

Please contact Chris Dando 01934 742131 Website: www.courthouseretirementhome.co.uk PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

SOME 28 years ago Pearl and Brian Dando bought beautiful Court House in the centre of Cheddar Village. Their aim was to convert this lovely place into a very special retirement home for the elderly, where privacy, dignity, happiness and independence would be paramount.

All of the accommodation in Court House has full en-suite facilities and the spacious drawing room, dining room, halls and lovely gardens provide the opportunity for residents to choose where to spend their time.

From the day they opened Court House choice was their favourite word, not for them, but for the residents to choose every aspect of their lives there. They have many special occasions for relaxation, such as themed supper evenings featuring different countries and their dishes.

Another great advantage is the position of Court House, in the centre of Cheddar Village.

Brian and Pearl said: “We feel very proud to have created this special place and we feel proud that our children are continuing to play a huge role in the running of Court House. We also have dedicated staff, some who have been there from the beginning and they are devoted to and give dignity to all who live there.”

On the move

RUTH Bale has moved her business, The Home Room, from Tweentown in Cheddar to the centre of the village in Bath Street, after launching it originally in Axbridge.

The interior furnishings business is now into its fifth year.

Ruth said: “This place is perfect. I couldn’t miss an opportunity like this to get somewhere right in the centre of Cheddar.”

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Pub with a view

MALCOLM Gould took over the Galleries Inn in Cheddar Gorge last October from Paul Sturmey, who had run it for nine years. He runs the pub team with manager Lynn Dally and his stepsons Neil and Ian. Millie Hares stayed on working in the kitchen.

Malcolm, who has lived in Axbridge for 12 years, took early retirement from the construction industry, and had always fancied running a pub, so jumped at the chance when the Galleries came up. Its sunny raised terrace has magnificent views up the gorge, as does its spacious conservatory, which doubles as a dining area, when the pool table is moved.

It’s a pub with a wide range of food, beers and ciders that caters for locals, as well as visitors.

Malcolm said: “What I enjoy most is the interaction Malcolm Gould (right) with stepson with the customers.”

Ian and manager Lynn Dally

FOCUS ON CHEDDAR

GALLERIES INN Welcome to the

Prime position in Cheddar Gorge

Sun terrace • Pool table • Local beers and ciders

Full food menu: Children's £4.95 inc drink and ice-cream Starters from £3.95 Lite bites from £4.95 Mains from £7.95 Opening hours: Mon - Thurs 10am-midnight Fri - Sat 10am-1am Sun - 11am-midnight

The Cliffs, Cheddar BS27 3QA • Tel 01934 744796

Celebrating 70 years

DEANE & Sons are celebrating 70 years trading in Cheddar.

Current owner Gerald Deane’s father bought the premises in Bath Street in March 1944. He moved from Wedmore because Cheddar was perceived to be a better commercial centre, with a railway station and a much better bus service than Wedmore.

Three months after the move, Gerald was conscripted into the armed forces and spent the next three and a half years away – mostly overseas. Upon his return the tailoring workshop was augmented by ‘Gents Outfitting’. In the late 1960s, an opportunity arose to supply local Grammar School Sexeys with their uniform.

They now supply uniform for many local schools. Formal hirewear was added to the inventory – this has grown and grown and they now cover formal events over a radius exceeding 20 miles.

Gerald said: “None of this would have been achievable without the foresight of my father Stanley and the ongoing support of Elsie my wife, my two sons Phillip and Nigel, many loyal staff and of course our customers. A big ‘Thank You’ to them all!”

Has moved to new larger premises For all your home furnishings Fabrics • Wallpapers • Gifts Cushions • Paints • Curtains • Blinds • Soft Furnishings Everything for the home Making up service for curtains and blinds Bath Street, Cheddar, BS27 3AA 01934 743004 • thehomeroom@live.co.uk • www.thehomeroom.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 23

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Gold standards

ERICA Sharpe is one of the few jewellers within the UK to have been granted a licence to use Fairtrade Gold. Erica is a pioneer in ethical jewellery production and works in Fairtrade Gold and other recycled precious metals along with ethically sourced gemstones.

Fairtrade Gold is the world’s first independent ethical certification system for gold.

Erica said: “Choosing to use Fairtrade Gold makes a huge difference to the lives of the small-scale artisan miners and their communities – it ensures they are working in the right conditions and being paid fairly. It also recognises the importance of protecting the natural environment around the mining areas.”

THE Old CuRIOddITy SHOp Antiques and so much more…100 square metres of beautiful items for your home…a warm welcome and a no pressure environment is guaranteed. Browsing is positively encouraged . . .

Introducing our new Victorian/Edwardian study . . . Militaria and ephemera sections . . .

Tel: 07812 501546 Email: steviejb2002@yahoo.co.uk e Workshop, Rickford, North Somerset BS40 7AH www.theantiquesloftatrickford.com Opening Times (Spring) 10.30am – 4.30pm (Tues – Sat) 10.30am – 1.30pm (Sunday)

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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TAMLYNS Auction Rooms hold four Collectors auctions every year; these sales are a speciality of auctioneer and valuer Claire Rawle and they regularly include a great mix of items such as postcards, stamps, coins, toys, medals, militaria, breweriana, automobilia, railwayana and so on!

The first of these sales this year was held on February 18th; it went extremely well – a good crowd attended the rooms both in person and via the internet bidding live online.

This sale contained the second and final offering of toys, games, diecast and Meccano for a local deceased estate; virtually every lot of this collection has now sold, it has been quite an undertaking sorting and cataloguing all the many different parts of this collection, but one that Claire has thoroughly enjoyed!

From this collection a large quantity of yellow boxes of Meccano pieces sold for £420, some other mixed pieces and motors £250 and T20 transformer and other items £300.

Postcards continue to do well and 31 photographic cards by Vowles of Somerset hunting scenes made £500; a set of six

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Alice in Wonderland cards by Charles Folkard £250 and an interesting album of mixed cards £320.

Top price of the day was for a group of World War 1 medals awarded to Captain Dacre and comprised a Military Cross and three others with supporting ephemera; they sold for £1,000.

A Norris No.4 smoothing plane sold for £400; All World postage stamps £190; an interesting album of military related photographs c.1930s £400 and a collection of early motoring related brochures totalled over £700.

The next Collectors sale will be on May 13th and entries are now being accepted. Contact the auctioneers on 01278 445251 for information.

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 25

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MENDIP TIMES

We’ve got it covered

Mendip Times Distribution Points

Mendip Times is available from over 800 outlets across the Mendips from superstores to village stores and post offices, farm shops, supermarkets, garden centres, pubs, inns, hotels and restaurants, doctors’ surgeries, libraries and tourist information centres.

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PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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Gatti takes the cream at £8,600

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Clock stands the test of time

IN the mid-19th century Florentine craftsman Giovanni Battista Gatti (18161869) was creating cabinets in the Renaissance Revival style for the wealthiest clients.

This ebonised table cabinet with drop front enclosing drawers has ivory and mother of pearl panels that depict views of Rome, as well as Gatti’s trade mark cats which he frequently managed to combine in his designs.

Two phone bidders played a fierce game of cat and mouse with the victor emerging with a bill for £8,600 and a grin like a Florentine cat. If you have antiques, works of art, jewellery that you mate thinking of selling why not go to one of Clevedon Salerooms Free Valuation Days.

To speak to a valuer contact the salerooms on 01934 830111.

ANDREW Forster of The Clock Shop in Castle Cary says it’s rare to come across old clocks in their original condition. So he considers himself lucky to have found this longcase by James Roper of Shepton Mallet.

Made around 1785 and in an oak case with Roper’s trademark star inlay to the door, this one has survived in its original state, even down to the second hand, which is most often a replacement, along with the crank winding key and lead weights.

The case too has not suffered, retaining the original finish with over 200 years of patination, giving it a deep, rich colour so often lacking on oak if it has been stripped or restored unsympathetically.

The family who owned it moved away from the area many years ago, but knew of

his shop and were happy to see the clock back in the area in which it was made, with the hope of finding it a local home.

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

‘Vendor over the moon’ Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE ANTIQUE VALUATION DAYS 1 2 April 14 15 16 April 9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – ample free parking no appointment necessary

Tel: 01934 830111 or 0117 325 6789

Rare Rolex Self-Winding 'Padellone' wristwatch

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

Sold for £69,000

www.clevedon-salerooms.com

www.clevedon-salerooms.com MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 27

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MENDIP TIMES

Outdoor Clothing, Footwear and Accessories

SPECIALITY BOOT WEEK 5th–12th April • Supalite Boots ONLY £100 (RRP £150) • FREE CARE KIT worth £10!

• Expert fitting and advice Broad Street • Congresbury (opposite Ship & Castle)

01934 877333 www.countryinnovation.co.uk

Writing competition

THE Country House Gift Company is running a writing competition for National Stationery Week from March 31st-April 6th. There are two categories: five-eight years and eight11 years.

In your best hand writing write a short passage about the village where your school is located and drop it into the shop in Winscombe by April 6th. There are prizes for 1st 2nd and 3rd in each category.

A good start

CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY

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

Tel 01761 451787

www.cameleylodgelaundry.co.uk

Early Years teacher required from September 2014, Mon 9am-1pm, Weds/Fri 8.45am-3.15pm. The applicant should have achieved EYPS status or EY teacher status (current CWDC requirements).

Pre-school Assistant required to cover maternity leave. The applicant should have achieved Level 3 child care (current CWDC requirements). To start immediately.

We take Safeguarding children very seriously.

Enhanced CRB check and monitoring essential.

For further information on joining our caring and motivated team, please contact Margaret Ballantyne, pre-school manager, on 01761 220191 or 07976 792966.

EAST Harptree Pre-School and Nursery has a vision: To provide a rich, stimulating environment, enabling all children to achieve their full potential. They believe in the ethos of the Early Years Foundation Stage and support their statement that: Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential.

ECATCHER MOL

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

Deadline for applications is 11th April 2014

PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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Get ahead – and get a hat for charity THERE are moments in one’s life that are especially uplifting and one of those happened for me recently when I was introduced to some of the trustees of a local charity, the much loved Somerset Levels RDA Carriage Driving Group.

The passion of these people for the work they do to provide such happy experiences for people with all kinds of disabilities is deeply moving and inspiring. Some of their clients expect little of life, but because of this group of determined volunteers, they have the gift of three ‘happy’ days each week.

The first day is when they are looking forward to their day of carriage driving, the second is when they ARE with the ponies and carriages, and the third is the one they spend chatting about it all with their families and carers.

I was extremely privileged when the trustees invited me to become a patron. I have never been a patron before, so I am not certain what my role should be- suggestions on a postcard please!

However, I am determined that as many people as possible should be made aware of the Somerset Levels RDA Carriage Driving Group. There are a number of reasons for this. The first is to try to help raise enough donations to keep its ponies in shelter and hay, vets’ bills, insurance and farriers’ bills throughout the year (£13,000 is needed for this). The second is to let people know that the Group would be very grateful for more volunteers to help with the ponies, the carriages, the horse box lorry and a host of other things.

The third is that there is space for more clients, and they would love to be able to offer another day’s driving. Finally, they would

BUSINESS

be very grateful to have the loan of a suitable large pony or horse to pull one of the driving carriages.

This is a small charity, run on a relative shoestring which punches very much above its weight in the effect it has on the lives of its clients and their carers. I am sure that Anne (a user and a trustee) won’t mind me mentioning the fact that following a life changing accident, she thought her relationship with horses was over until she became involved with the group.

She has now entered carriage driving competitions together with able bodied folk and has won a number of medals. I can only just imagine how good this must feel.

These days we are all being asked to dig deep to support so many good causes, but joining in with a local group such as this can be good for supporters as well as users. Don’t underestimate the value of a voluntary job on your CV! Also, if you are currently out of work or retired, being involved in a group such as this one can give such a boost to health and well being.

Working with animals at any level is therapeutic for all of us, and being able to help other people is a gift. If you can support this group in any way, or if you are someone who would qualify as a potential driver and would like to have a go, please contact them. You can find out all necessary details on their marvellous new website: www.somersetlevelsrda.org/ Meanwhile, if you’ll excuse me, as I am now a Bona Fide Charity Patron, I think I shall go and buy a hat – shouldn’t all Patrons should have one?

Jane Bowe, ProBusiness

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 29

Photo by Ignyte Limited, Radstock.

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Easter on a plate

With JUNE MACFARLANE

Rack of lamb

IT DOESN’T take much for nature to burst into life; just a few warm days and there are spring flowers and blossom everywhere.

The great feast of Easter comes along, with hot cross buns and more chocolate bunnies than you can shake an egg spoon at. Even if you are not particularly religious, which of us is not giving thanks that the darkness of winter is over and the

land is renewed?

Lamb is traditional at Easter, although real spring lamb – from lambs born in the spring – will not grace our tables until early autumn. Rack of lamb is expensive, but there is very little waste and it is quick to prepare. A starter of veal with a tuna sauce may sound a bit weird, but it is absolutely delicious and I love the fresh taste and colour of a lemon tart to finish. The

COLD VEAL WITH TUNA SAUCE

You make this in a leisurely way over a couple of days. Bring it out of the fridge in time to come to room temperature before serving. It works as either a starter or a main course with salad.

METHOD

Put vegetables, wine, herbs and garlic in a pan just big enough to hold the veal. Add about three inches of water and bring to the boil. Add veal and bring back to the boil. Turn off heat, cover and leave veal to cool in the stock.

Make a mayonnaise with the egg yolks and oil (I find all olive oil is a bit much for the flavour), dribbling in the oil and whisking until you have the texture of gloss paint. Add some lemon juice to taste.

In a food processor whizz the tuna, anchovies and capers with

starter and can be made in advance, leaving just the lamb to cook at the last minute.

INGREDIENTS more oil to make 1 kg English rose veal roast, a creamy sauce. trimmed and tied in a round Add the mixture 1 large glass white wine to the 1 rib celery, 1 medium onion, 1 mayonnaise. Taste medium carrot, white part of a for seasoning. leek, all chopped roughly When the veal a few sprigs marjoram and thyme is completely cold 4 garlic cloves, peeled take it out of the stock, pat dry and FOR THE SAUCE slice very, very 2 egg yolks at room temperature thinly. It should extra virgin olive oil be pale pink. Put sunflower oil a dollop of sauce juice of 2 lemons on a serving plate, 1 7oz can tuna in oil, drained. layer the veal 5 anchovy fillets with sauce, 3 tbsp capers, drained interleaving the slices and finishing with sauce on top. Cover with cling film and refrigerate to allow the flavours to develop.

RACK OF LAMB WITH A HERB CRUST AND REDCURRANT SAUCE

Lamb – shoulder or leg – is a good choice for Easter, but if you want a smaller, neater cut, go for rack. Buy it “Frenched” with the bones sticking out and scraped clean, or get the butcher to do it for you. You don’t need to start it until about half an hour before you intend to eat it, so gather everything in advance and have the vegetables ready to go.

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180˚C. Whizz the breadcrumbs, herbs and garlic briefly in PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

INGREDIENTS

1-2 racks of lamb, depending on numbers to be fed olive oil freshly made white breadcrumbs small bunch parsley leaves from 3 sprigs rosemary 1 clove garlic, chopped ½ glass wine redcurrant or any other kind of fruit jelly

a food processor. Transfer to a plate.

Cut almost through the fat on the outside of the rack(s) in a diamond pattern.

Heat some oil in a pan and sear the meat on all sides. Cover the meat with the breadcrumb mixture. Roast in the oven for about 20mins, depending on taste, until the crust is golden.

Remove from oven and rest for 10mins. Melt the fruit jelly and the wine and bubble vigorously. Cut down between the ribs of the rack to serve. Spoon sauce over.

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FOOD & DRINK

Time to relax

BEING able to take a few minutes for yourself and enjoy a freshly ground cup of coffee, and catch up with friends and other parents, is priceless. Jon Thorner’s Coffee Den have created a child-friendly zone, full of colour and toys, to keep them entertained, whilst you steal a few minutes to yourself.

After dropping the older children to school or running errands, stop by the Coffee Den for a relaxing coffee, a bowl of granola, lunch or a slice of indulgent cake, and let the children do what they do best – play!

NEW RANGE OF VACUUM PACKERS Very Competitive prices

Food equipment specialists

ESTABLISHED in 2003, Machines 4 Food Ltd, based on the Westfield Trading Estate, Midsomer Norton, Radsctock, has built up an outstanding reputation for supplying top quality new and refurbished equipment to the food industry.

They specialise in supplying machines for all manufacturing sectors of the industry, covering meat and poultry processing, bakery, cooked meats production, packaging and diary and cheese production.

Their staff of highly trained engineers have many years combined experience in the industry and they can install and commission machines on-site and can service and maintain them to keep their clients in continuous production.

They manufacture the Mastercook range of cookers and pride themselves on being able to supply any piece of equipment required, with a range of finance packages available.

Suppliers of New and Used Refurbished Food Equipment The ATM range of vacuum packers are now available: • Manufactured in Holland • Stainless steel construction • Programmable electronic controls • Basic vacuum seal machines with gas flush as an option • Fill 12 months warranty • Basic small table top Model from £1,420 plus vat • Large single phase electric 240v unit

New Fatosa Machines • Bowl Cutters 20 litre to 325 litres • Mixers with paddle or Z arms • Mincers from 130mm to 200mm • Black Flakers for butter/cheese

New Carso Machines • Tote bin tippers – any height • Model HKV 200 tippers with adjustment • Barrel tippers • Do Lav tippers

Unit 40, Second Avenue,Westfield Trading Estate, Radstock BA3 4BH

01761 410345

sales@machines4food.co.uk • www.machines4food.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 31

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BEAH

English & Mediterranean Restaurant, Wells

A la carte menu (including authentic Moroccan tagines)

Normally closed Sundays but open for:

EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH Sunday 20th April Bookings are being taken from 12 noon – 2pm For more information, call Nicola on 01749 678111 – email: info@beah.co.uk

www.beah.co.uk Relaxed and friendly dining in the heart of Wells

Perfect for any occasion

BOWLISH House is a Grade II listed gem just outside Shepton Mallet on the main road to Wells. Recently under new ownership, the house is undergoing a series of changes to restore the public areas to their original Georgian splendour, whilst creating an elegant environment for celebrations and entertaining.

Bowlish House is the perfect setting for marking all of life’s milestones, Christenings, birthdays, weddings (a wedding licence is held) and indeed funeral Receptions. As summer approaches the magnificent gardens offer the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.

The award-winning new chef, Stephen Frost, creates innovative menus sourcing the very best of local produce wherever possible, from Angus beef raised on the owner’s family farm to homemade breads and ice-creams. Bowlish House offers fine traditional and contemporary cuisine Lunch is served every day except Monday with Sunday Lunch being very popular at just £13.50 per person for two courses; booking is advised.

There are private meeting and conference rooms accommodating from 4 – 80 people making Bowlish House the ideal setting for companies and organisations to work productively away from the office.

Bowlish House boasts six traditionally furnished guest rooms with modern en-suite bathrooms and shower rooms. Fine linens and attention to detail, together with professional and friendly service, all contribute to the 4-star rating from Visit Britain for Bowlish House.

Easter Sunday Lunch Menu STARTERS

Easter Sunday Lunch

Sunday April 20th, 12.00pm to 2.00pm Booking Advisable

Parsnip & Apple Soup Chicken Liver Parfait with Red Onion Chutney & Granary Toast Bowlish House Prawn & Smoked Salmon Cocktail Cod and Salmon Fishcake with sweet chilli syrup MAIN COURSE

Roast Topside of Local Beef, Roast Potatoes, Yorkshire Pudding & Red wine sauce Roast Breast of Turkey, Cranberry seasoning, Roast Potatoes and Sage Sauce Fillet of Cod, Lemon Mash with Spinach & White Wine Sauce Woodland Mushroom & Goats Cheese Risotto with Parmesan Crackling All main courses are served with seasonal vegetables DESSERTS

Email: reception@bowlishhouse.com or info@bowlishhouse.com www.bowlishhouse.com e Bowlish House, Wells Road, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 5JB PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Sticky Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce Warm Black Cherry Bakewell Tart with Vanilla Ice Cream Iced Banana Parfait, Wild Berry Compote & Banana Puree Selection of West Country Cheeses, Grapes, HomemadeChutney and Biscuits (Supplement £4)

£19.50

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GARDEN FOOD

Cauliflowers are king

With JAKE WHITSON

I’M pretty proud of my spring-heading cauliflowers this year. They’ve formed nice tight heads and grown well despite the atrocious weather we’ve had this past winter.

However, I deliberately do something with my cauliflowers that would appall many a scrupulous vegetable gardener – I let them go over, and almost flower,

before I pick them.

The reason I do this is that many years ago I was wandering through a friend’s garden and found some cauliflowers that had accidentally been left to go over – each of the florets had turned into a long, skinny green stem with a group of flower buds at the top.

Out of curiosity I picked and ate one of them raw, and it was the single sweetest, best tasting piece of brassica flesh which I have ever eaten – a little like that tender-stem broccoli you see in the shops sometimes these days, but many times better.

That evening we picked every last stem of it and grilled it over charcoal. Drizzled with olive oil and sea salt, it was sublime. Ever since then I’ve developed the habit of letting my cauliflowers develop these over-grown florets, and they are possibly my very favourite vegetable. Unfortunately my cauliflowers have not yet got to this stage, so the picture is of my cauliflowers still at the ‘curd’ stage.

At this stage I still love cauliflower, though I use it in different ways. It goes extremely well in a vegetable curry, or cooked and puréed with cream to serve with a roast or a piece of fish. One unusual way I like cauliflower is roasted – with a little olive oil, salt, black pepper and thyme – until tender and caramelised on one or two sides.

If you’re feeling indulgent you couldn’t do any better than to serve this with some of the creamed cauliflower, some seared scallops, and sprinkle the whole lot with some freshly made garam masala. Delish!

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

It’s spring time, wake up!

THERE are few things better than being out on a spring walk, in fine weather and discovering a plant that is edible. With the mild winter comes early flowering (and I hope we do not get any late frosts to set this back) and a sense that everything is waking up, coming alive.

With ADRIAN One of the first flowers to appear in late BOOTS winter/early spring is red dead nettle and I hope this will be a good year for other family members such as white dead nettle and yellow archangel which gained its angelic name during the Middle Ages for looking like stinging nettle but not actually stinging.

Don’t you just love that? With fantastic old Somerset local names such as: Archangel (many common names seem interchangeable), bumblebee flower (due to its attractiveness to bees), deaf nettle, dumb nettle (due to lack of stings) red dead nettle is a welcome site.

Red dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) is an annual plant that has a spreading and ascending habit 10 to 40 cm in height. The labiate flowers common to all mint family plant members are pinkish purple 10 to 18mm long in whorls above the leaves. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, are toothed and heart-shaped at the base to a point similar to nettle.

The stem is square and the whole plant can have a purple tinge to it but has a pleasant aroma when the flower is crushed.

Found February to November it is a common plant of cultivated and waste ground, hedgebanks and gardens.

The plant is high in iron and anti-oxidants and was used medically as an astringent. Use the young stems and leaves in, you guessed it, a spring salad (the flowers contain a little nectar) or lightly steam and finely chop then incorporate into couscous or rice dishes. Why not try a red dead nettle and white dead nettle soup following the same recipe as a nettle soup?

Spring is a good time for getting out and about in the countryside and an even better time to try exciting wild food ingredients in the kitchen.

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

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 33

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Tulips nearly ready

FARRINGTONS Farm Shop is gearing up for spring – it’s the UK’s only PYO tulip field, with over 50,000 beautiful blooms!

As always, it’s difficult to be precise on dates as the weather makes all the difference but the best time to pick is usually late April – mid May.

NEW Gifts • local produce NEW Hampers NEW Shop while you dine NEW Menu for fine dining NEW Outside catering NEW Cakes made to order NEW Private dining nights More than just a teashop

The Connies, The Square, Timsbury, Bath BA2 0HY 01761 568451 email theconniestearoom@live.co.uk Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest

THE QUEEN ADELAIDE BLAGDON

Phil and Pauline Hogan wish a big thank you to all of their customers for their support over the last two and a half years – as well as the support of Mendip Times – as they prepare to leave the pub in the capable hands of Colin and Sharon Chappell.

MANY THANKS!

Spring fresh at Farrington’s Visit the UK's only ‘Pick Your Own tulips’ field.

Over 50,000 beautiful blooms in stunning colours. Open end-April to mid-May. Come early to get your pick of the bunch!

Farrington's award-winning Farm Shop, Cafe and Shopping Village.

PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Timeless quality at the country pub in the town

IT is good to know that some things never change and that is very much the case at The Two Brewers pub in Street.

For the past 20 years, Richard and Maggie Pearce have stayed true to the ideals that led to them buying the freehouse in the first place.

Amongst those principles for creating a successful enterprise are a warm welcome from friendly and knowledgeable staff, quality home cooked food at a sensible price, an excellent range of real ales and – above all – NO music or fruit machines!

The Two Brewers is a true country pub in a town. Situated in Leigh Road, it is just 400 yards from the bustling Clarks Village and the High Street. And with three ensuite double letting rooms, it is also ideal for people visiting the area whether on holiday or perhaps visiting children at Millfield School.

Richard has a background in marketing; clues can be found in the wittily-written newspaper-style menus and a changing Thought For the Day on a blackboard by the bar.

He said: “Our customers know what they like.”

Connies celebrates expansion

CONNIES in Timsbury has launched a new product range using many suppliers from within Somerset and West Wiltshire. Some of their favourites are handmade pasta ‘Jazz Hands’ from Shepton Mallet, Timmies Chillies from Farmborough, Radford honey, raw chocolate from Elements for Life in Bradford on Avon and their own tea leaves, chutney and quince jelly.

This new aspect of the shop offers customers many affordable treats to buy themselves or ideal gifts. You could easily pair their tea leaves with a tea pot or ceramic mug with strainer. Or maybe some of their coffee beans with a smart grinder! They can also make different sized hampers to order using any combination of the products.

They have added a tick-box to their evening menu so people can shop whilst they eat and staff will fill a bag with the chosen products while they dine. Customers seem to enjoy this!

Their latest evening menu focuses on serving small plates, where three dishes and a couple of sides is usually enough for two people. They are continuing to expand, now offering outside catering for buffets, fine dining, cakes made to order and private dining nights too.

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FOOD & DRINK Country shopping at its best

THEATcountry WO BREWERS pub in the town

1994 2014 RICHARD & MAGGIE ARRIVED!

WE’RE STILL HERE!

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW

We believe our customers know what they like, that’s why they return again and again. If you’ve not visited us before, now’s the time to find out what you’ve been missing.

MEAT SUPPLIED FROM OUR OWN FARM

No music and No fruit machines just freshly-cooked food and one of the best choices of real ales in the area.

We also have three ensuite double letting rooms.

The Two Brewers, Leigh Road, Street, Somerset BA16 0HB. Tel: 01458 442421 • www.thetwobrewers.co.uk e-mail: info@thetwobrewers.co.uk

EASTER GIFTS AND FLOWERS HOT CROSS BUNS AND EASTER BISCUITS

April 5th is Midsomer Norton’s 10th Birthday Market

Sarah Raven Seeds and Spring Plants

APRIL 2014 DATES

Wells: every Wednesday 9am-2.30pm at the Market Place All other markets 9am-1pm unless otherwise marked*

Saturday 5th Sunday

6th

Axbridge & Midsomer Norton SFM@ the Frome Independent (10am-3pm)*

Saturday 12th Frome & Keynsham Saturday 19th Crewkerne Friday 25th

Burnham-on-Sea

Saturday 26th Glastonbury & Yeovil (9am-2pm)* follow us @SFMMarkets For more information phone 01373 814646 or visit www.SomersetFarmersMarkets.co.uk

Powering Farming’s Future Tel: 01225 667151 Web: www.yourenergyuk.com

Enjoy a good Sunday roast

Emma Bridgwater China & other gifts Geoff’s fresh fish every Friday

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

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

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 • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 35

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Sticking with Foncho

PRIMARY school pupils met one of the “faces” of this year’s Fairtrade Fortnight campaign when a banana producer from Columbia visited Wells.

Albeiro Alfonso “Foncho” Cantillo was the special guest of students at the city’s Blue School who are trying to revive their own Fairtrade group. The visit was the idea of Mary I’Anson, part of Fairtrade Wells. Foncho featured on a series of posters calling on consumers to back the organisation’s campaign against cheap banana imports.

FOOD & DRINK Pupils from some of the Blue School’s feeder schools spent a morning working on projects about Fairtrade before Foncho gave a talk about his life. Pupils from St Joseph and St Teresa’s, St Cuthbert’s, Chewton Mendip and Horrington schools were joined by Stogumber for the workshops.

Foncho is a 44-year-old banana farmer whose livelihood depends on his produce. He grows them on a plot of land he inherited from his father, which is 1.3 hectares or roughly the size of two football pitches.

Foncho is the centre of attention

Builders dig deep for MS Saint George & the Dragon Fes val April 23rd-26th 2014 Fundraising for

the

Beer and Cider Fes%val throughout with display of St George & the Dragon art

Wednesday, April 23rd

Beetlecrushers Clog Dancers: 6.30pm Langport Mummers St George Play: 7.30pm Talk on the symbolism of the legend by Rev. A. Armstrong: 8.30pm Cel%c Dragon myth and music with Nathan Lewis Williams: 10pm

Thursday, April 24th

Dragon Curry Night: from 6pm • Defining the images of St George & the Dragon: 8pm Cel%c Dragon music with Keiran and Mary Taafe: 9.30pm

Friday, April 25th

Dragon’s Mouth Pizza from 5pm Dinder Dragon Poem Reading with Christopher Somerville 8pm Dragon’s Wings Duo (Sunny and Daygan of Dragonsfly) Friday 9pm

Saturday, April 26th

Dragon Woods Walk: 10am • Village Dragon Procession to Dinder: 11am Village Feast: from 1pm • Parish Dragon’s Ski&les: 3pm Circulus Medieval Music: 8.30pm

www.thegeorgeinn.co.uk • Email: info@thegeorgeinn.co.uk

tel 01749 342306 Great Food, Beer and Atmosphere

PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

A RAFFLE during their staff Christmas party has allowed Albino Builders of Shepton Mallet to present a cheque for £150 to the Mendip branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Michael Guidi, from Albino Builders, presented the cheque to branch chairman Peter Graham, from The George Inn at Croscombe. Michael said: “The MS society is our nominated charity for the year as it is close to Albino Builders; everyone contributed very generously.”

Peter said: “The branch is very grateful to Albino Builders.”

The George Inn will be raising more funds for the society when it hosts a Saint George and the Dragon festival from Wednesday, April 23rd to Saturday, April 26th, featuring events for all the family, ranging from a beer festival and a mummer’s play to Celtic music, a poetry A welcome donation: Michael Guidi reading and a village (right) presents the cheque to Peter Graham dragon procession.

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

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INTERNET

The snipping tool

IN a previous article, we looked at using Print Screen button to quickly capture error messages, but there is an alternative, which is the Snipping Tool. The big disadvantage with the Snipping Tool is that you have to move away from where you are to find it, so it won’t capture right-click menus or drop down menus etc, and requires one or two steps to activate it, but you can create a shortcut if you are going to use it regularly. It comes with most Windows packages. The advantage is that you can capture part of the screen or the whole thing.

Also there is more than one reason for capturing a screen image; it will take a snap shot of whatever is on the screen at the time.

To open the Snipping Tool on W8, so go the Start screen (tile screen) and type Snipping (no need to go to search mode – you are automatically able to search without doing anything else) and then tap or click Snipping Tool.

For Vista/W7 – click on the Start button and type Snipping and click on the option that appears in the list.

There are four types of snips – Free-form Snip; Rectangular Snip (usually the default); Window Snip; or Full-screen Snip. The Window Snip snips a browser window, the rest do what they say!

Tap or click the arrow next to the New button, choose the kind of snip you want, then click and hold and drag across the area of the screen that you want to capture. Or if you always want the Rectangular snip, just click directly on the New button.

Once snipped – you can then simply save it (through the File menu) or move somewhere else and Paste it into a document.

You can email it direct – but usually goes to Windows Live Mail by default, so won’t work if you only email online. So just save it and attach to an email if you wish.

You can create a keyboard shortcut – click Start > All programmes > Accessories, right-click Snipping Tool > Properties > Shortcut tab – press the key you want to use.

Click Apply. (Windows will automatically put Ctrl + Alt as the prefix so if you have assigned “S” you need to press Ctrl + Alt + S to launch, for instance.)

To lock Snipping tool onto the taskbar or start menu, search for it as above, but right-click it and choose the option you want (Pin to Taskbar or Pin to Start menu) In the next article, we’ll look at doing the same thing with Tablets and iPads.

N.B. The general advise about free WiFi is do not use it, because you are at risk from Trojan viruses. More in the next issue.

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, at a pace to suit you; a session lasts 2 hours and costs £10. We can cover a range of subjects. See our website or contact us for further details or if you can spare two hours and week have skills on any level – especially iPad – that you would like to share with others, please get in touch.

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

A D T D P

ACROSS

1/2 Web disrupts menu by arrangement near Wells (8,3,6) 5 Whistles and . . . two or three-piece Cockney wear (6) 10 Hello, best to concentrate on your ears (5) 11 French rise to severe responsibility of 30,7 (9) 12 Self-delusion sends away means of keeping warm (4,3) 13 Feminist keeps at making increase (7) 14 Things not working without energy attract smart types (5) 16 To cause annoyance after damage is bound to make you open wide (9) 18 Daily extract can hold things together (5,4) 21 Lions left Long Island . . . some body part remaining (5) 23 Half the musicians found a shortcut to source of cider (7) 25 Sign to keep on track for bookworms (7) 27 Racy style of treasure of 30, 7 (5,4) 28 You’ll find I enjoy the freer kind of pop music (5) 29 What’s said about fifty, if different, may end up apart (6) 30/7Citizen to believe in looking after property . . . (8,5)

DOWN 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9

15 17 18 19 20 22 24 26

Water source led to feeling satisfied (4-3) See 1 Across Lamb is topped off with gravy (5) Couldn’t keep to the point so went for a walk (7) Lenin gave a means of fermenting the masses (9) See 30 Across Use bad language to approve strongly (5,2) A single drink for fated Russian character (6) On French having got through test looked outclassed (9) Great Dane found pleasant setting for refreshment (3,6) Inadequate regulation may nevertheless help the needy (4,3) Leading man loses nine going in for dodgy reading (3,3) My army pal turned out to be a plant (7) Watertight lock up gives mobile power source (3,4) Give comic a terrible reception to provide for (5) Dublin is unlikely place to find pancake (5)

Answers on Page 97 MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 37

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Winscombe

(l to r) Bryony Eastment, Ted Morris and Flora Jessop

Paulton

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

East Harptree

Blagdon

PANCAKE DAY

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Cary’s pride and joy

NEWS

People gather for the opening of the Market House

A LARGE crowd gathered to celebrate the official reopening of Castle Cary’s iconic Market House by Lady Gass, the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset.

The ground floor of the building has been completely refurbished to create a multi-purpose venue. The front of the building also hosted the first of a new series of general markets, taking place every Tuesday morning.

Stiltwalker and entertainer Lizzy welcomes shoppers to the first market

King’s School, Bruton, Big Band played at the opening

Glaston-oyez!

THE new town crier of Glastonbury performed his first official cry to launch the town’s latest tourist information guide.

David Greenway shouted out the news about the Glastonbury and Street Visitor Guide at a reception at Glastonbury Abbey. Janet Bell, Abbey director, said: “In these challenging times, all within the tourism sector need to work in partnership to maximise our appeal, our accessibility and indeed our viability.

“2014 is an exciting one for the Abbey with the re-opening of the Abbot’s Kitchen following conservation work as well as a busy programme of events including theatre productions, exhibitions, workshops and, of course, the Extravaganza which this year sees Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters performing.”

Mary Parker, chairman of the tourist information centre, said: “Mendip is fortunate in having tourist information centres in each of its towns and long may this continue; the production and sale of the guide is part of ensuring their survival.

Lady Gass is presented with flowers by Eve Ball, chair of the school council at Castle Cary Primary School, after cutting the ribbon to reopen the Market House

(l:r): David Greenway, Mary Parker, Sue Thurgood (Mayor of Glastonbury) and Janet Bell

“Visitors come to us to arrange accommodation, travel and trips so to have us all working together is very important.”

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 39

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From the headmaster, James Murphy-O’Connor IF you look at our advertisement below, you will see a glimpse of our beautiful landscape, our Georgian Manor House and our happy students. I like two things in particular about this advertisement.

First, that our students are the focus, with our glorious environment framing them. That is how it should be. Before we enthuse about the beauty of our grounds and the historical significance to Bath of our site and buildings, we are always mindful that it is our students who are the life of the school and the reason we as a staff and community put so much effort into what we do.

The second thing I like about the advertisement is the heading – What LIFE is all about. Those few words encapsulate Prior Park College. Life is about making the most of the opportunities that come your way, and there are a lot of opportunities at Prior Park. Life is also about working hard, sharing your God-given talents and challenging yourself to achieve, not only in those areas in which you excel, but in those that take you out of your comfort zone. That is what life at Prior is all about.

We are currently registering our new intake of students for the 2014/2015 academic year and once again I have been impressed with the calibre of the students. Indeed, in September we will welcome straight A academics, musicians, athletes, artists and a whole host of all-rounders who put their hand to everything.

Each and every student brings their own blueprint and this is what makes Prior Park College such a special school. We do not seek to be an academic hot-house, nor a specialist school in any

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particular discipline. We seek to offer the very best teaching and learning programme, supported by an outstanding pastoral care programme, infused with extraordinary opportunities and underpinned by a strong sense of our place in the wider world.

These are the hallmarks of a Prior Park education.

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Churchill Academy – where Sixth Form makes sense CHURCHILL Academy believes school is more than just learning. They challenge their students and encourage them to aim high and to recognise the value of their achievements.

And they have great achievements which speak for themselves. Their 2012 A-Level results placed them in the top five per cent of schools in the country and they are consistently the top performing sixth form in North Somerset.

Their overall pass rate of 99.4% and 80% A*-C grades demonstrates their students’ achievements alongside their own.

The sixth form has been awarded ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted for both pastoral care and guidance and leadership in the last three inspections.

Although their reputation at Churchill is for academic success, they have long-standing traditions around extra-curricular activities and support which provide a solid foundation on which to build, develop and improve.

They help develop students’ confidence and values for life beyond sixth form. Their Specialist Tutor Programme offers relevant and tangible experiences for students to be inspired and acquire new skills that will help them to stand out from the crowd in an increasingly competitive world.

They pride themselves on their values; Care, Inspire, Challenge and Achieve run through all aspects of Churchill.

Students are happy and there is a clear sense of community amongst staff and students. They offer the time and place to help shape each student’s future and are constantly rewarded by seeing individuals develop, grow and achieve.

EDUCATION

Churchill Sixth Form is pleased to share its new film – Sixth Sense! The school wanted to make a film that reflected Churchill Sixth Form, but did so in an engaging way that showed high quality production. The project was awarded to Whitespace who saw this project as an opportunity to do something really special.

As well as producing a great film, they wanted students to have a great experience making it. Director Sarah-Jayne White guided and supported the students through the production. The trailer to the film has already proven to be a great success and they hope that the film will too.

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MENDIP TIMES

An all-round “excellent” school for girls AS its advertisement states, Red Maids’ students leave with much more than the best exam results. Aiming high and helping each girl to meet her potential academically is most certainly the goal of this Bristol independent girls’ day school and going by the results, they are succeeding.

Red Maids’ Junior and Senior Schools both hold top 100 positions among independent schools nationally (Sunday Times Parent Power, Nov 2013) based on the outcomes of Key Stage 2 Standard Assessment Tests, GCSE and Sixth Form public exams.

Red Maids’ head But Red Maids’ Isabel Tobias recognises that a girl’s education is about so much more, with the provision of additional opportunities a high priority in order to inspire them with new interests and stretch them physically, morally and intellectually.

As the senior school’s headmistress Isabel

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Tobias puts it: “We are intent on providing the very best for girls academically, but we also encourage them to develop the new interests, strengths and skills that universities and employers expect in the 21st century and that help girls achieve fulfilling lives.”

In the junior school, the girls have fun learning the core subjects which are combined with creative and performing arts, humanities, languages and a range of exciting outdoor activities.

In the senior school, the students work towards GCSE and IGCSEs at the end of Year 11 and have the choice of studying A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the Sixth Form.

Both schools make use of iPad technology to ensure their learning environment is right up-to-date.

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Molly is Oxford bound

EDUCATION

SIDCOT student, Molly Scull from Winscombe is delighted to have been offered a place to study German at St Hilda’s College in Oxford. The 17-year-old who has been a student at the Quaker school for four years said: “If you want to do well at Sidcot you can.

“Teachers are definitely committed and always willing to give help outside of lessons, but it isn’t overly stressful – I put pressure on myself because I enjoy my subject and want to do it at the highest level possible.”

Molly is studying A Level German, Chemistry and English and is also actively involved in school life where she helps to organise charity fundraising events. As well as appreciating the one-to-one tuition she receives in her German lessons, Molly said: “Sidcot has a really nice atmosphere and a community feel. I will always remember this and the Quaker ethos when I leave.”

Shapwick’s unique formula

SHAPWICK is a pioneering co-educational day and boarding school that occupies two separate sites situated on the delightful Somerset levels. As a CReSTed category ‘SP’ School, Shapwick specialises in the education of young people aged 8 – 18 years with dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and associated speech and language needs.

Shapwick’s motto ‘The same road by different steps’ rings true in everything throughout the school. Shapwick provides specialist teachers to small classes.

It employs a team of speech and language and occupational therapists who work in conjunction with the teachers to help to achieve an ethos where the emphasis is based on making maximum demands on the strengths of students, whilst providing specialist support across their whole curriculum through a holistic, multisensory approach.

Shapwick does not believe in specialist dyslexic units situated within a mainstream school. If you have a poor working memory and weak phonological processing then you have those weaknesses in every lesson, activity and break, not just in a daily literacy lesson.

Pupils therefore no longer feel different and as a result their self-esteem and confidence grows. They feel happy, fulfilled, confident and most importantly of all they are given the same opportunities as children who do not have dyslexia.

Shapwick teachers understand the things that make a difference and their experience, results and feedback from parents, pupils and teachers demonstrates that Shapwick’s unique formula works.

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 43

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MENDIP TIMES

“Les Mis” vid goes viral

EVERYONE knows that a picture is worth a thousand words, but a short video that captures the spirit and passion of your teaching staff speaks volumes.

Staff at Writhlington School came up with a very unique way of promoting the auditions for their autumn show Les Miserables, creating a lip dub video to the song “DO you hear the people sing”.

Over 60 members of staff including teaching staff, admin staff and assistant heads joined in marching through the corridors and taking centre stage in the hope of inspiring students to audition for this cult classic.

Head Teacher Mark Everett said: “We were very excited to announce to the students the next musical, it’s such a big show we knew we had to go for it full steam ahead. We have been overwhelmed by positive feedback from parents and the general public.”

The video became an instant hit reaching 2,000 views in just 24 hours and receiving over one hundred retweets on twitter including some from professional West End directors.

From video star to star director, Writhlington has also announced this year’s director: James Moore, who recently won an award for ‘Best Director’ at the David Beech Awards in conjunction with the Somerset Fellowship of Drama.

The awards, held at the beginning of March, celebrated the talented amateur theatre groups in Somerset nominating 25 groups per category.

James said: “I was astounded to receive this award for my show ‘Spelling Bee’. It is not very well known but wonderfully funny. We are going to be performing it again in April at Writhlington Prospect Theatre. But onto my next project, it is a massive undertaking and I am very excited.”

Meanwhile, James has another vital role to play at school:

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Staff and students who ran the Bath Half Marathon in aid of the Moving Mountains charity trip to Tanzania

helping to co-ordinate a trip by 22 students to Tanzania to work along side the charity Moving Mountains. The charity was first established in 1991 by Gavin Bates to provide aid for the relief of hardship and inequality for children and adults through education and vocational training, medical treatment, sport and employment.

While out there, the students will take part in the renovation and building of new schools, orphanages, community centres and environmental projects.

Year 12 student Charlotte Webb said: “It’s not about quick fixes, the charity provide sustainable resources for families and towns. The charity monitors the positive socio-economic impact it has and helps them support other bordering villages – Its going to be such a rewarding experience.”

The students have already run a number of successful events including ‘A Taste of Africa’ – an evening of traditional African food, music and entertainment – classic quiz nights where over 30 teams turned out in support and Valentine’s Day deliveries, where 100s of students sent anonymous roses and poems to secret admirers delivered personally by the sixth form in a lesson!

James said: “It’s really inspiring to see so many students willing to give up weeks of their summer and months of preparation time to help people in other countries less fortunate.

Not only are they paying full cost of their flights there they are raising a substantial amount of money in support of the charity.

“To date we have reached almost 70% of our fundraising target which is brilliant with still four months to go.”

G Auditions for Les Miserables are open to current and prospective students. The school would love to hear from students who are thinking of applying for their sixth form or coming up in the next academic year.

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EDUCATION

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MENDIP TIMES

Swedish hockey captain guides King’s Bruton to three national finals THE captain of the Swedish hockey team is celebrating a treble success for the Under-16 hockey teams he coaches at King’s Bruton.

King’s recruited Henry Eriksson to continue the success the school had enjoyed under the previous coach Ben Dudley, the England Under-16 goalkeeping coach.

Henry, who captained Sweden in the recent Indoor European Championships, first masterminded the success of the school’s boys and girls Under-16 indoor teams in reaching the national finals in January.

Now he has guided the Under-16 boys to the outdoor national finals as well after they were crowned West champions in the regional finals.

To reach the nationals, the King’s team beat Queen’s Taunton, Clifton College and Canford in the qualifying group, Queen Elizabeth College, Guernsey in the semifinal, and then Canford again in the final.

The latest King’s Bruton success comes

PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

towards the end of a season in which the outdoor Under-16 boys’ team have won 12 of their 13 matches, drawing the other one.

They have scored 35 goals, conceding only two.

EDUCATION

Ian Wilmshurst, the Headmaster, said: “We are a relatively small school with only 212 boys and 119 girls. To reach three national finals is therefore highly commendable.”

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Larkrise to Radstock

Brownies bewitched

NEWS

Inner Wheel president Brenda Whitchurch with Mike Pope, a farmer and Rotarian

FARMER Mike Pope was the guest of honour at a meeting of Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel when he spoke about his role in the making of the BBC hit television series Larkrise to Candleford.

Producers of the prime-time series saw his fields of golden wheat at Bradford-on-Avon and decided they would make the perfect location for the adaptation of Flora Thompson’s novel. So began nearly five years of filming each June to November, with the rest of the storylines being shot in studios. Some days there were 150 actors and crew on set.

Monk celebrates centenary

BROWNIES from Yeo Vale Division had an exciting one-off sleepover at Wookey Hole Caves, along with 180 girls from across Somerset North, to celebrate the Big Brownie 100th Birthday celebrations. They are pictured with the “Witch” of Wookey.

Old and new

BROWNIES in 3rd Yatton Brownies have been celebrating their 40th anniversary with a series of events, including trying out uniforms from the past and a fish and chip supper with former brownies.

Evie Gingell was lucky enough to be able to wear her mum’s uniform and said: “I prefer our modern uniform it is more comfy.“ The Chaplain General presented Dom Columba with a shield of the Royal Army Chaplains.

DOM Columba Thorne celebrated his 100th birthday at Downside Abbey and is now the oldest Benedictine monk in the country. He is also one of only two surviving army chaplains from Arnhem.

Dom Columba had a small celebration in Fosse House attended by the Abbot of Downside, Dom Aidan Bellenger, Chaplain General the Rev J. Woodhouse and the Assistant Chaplain General, the Rev (Col) Ian Evans, both from the Royal Army Chaplains Department.

Father Evans said: “We are delighted to join in such a momentous event in the life of a veteran colleague and brother priest.”

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 47

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Fun and expertise at the fair

THE annual Chew Valley Bird Fair provides nature lovers, bird watchers and photographers with a great day out in the country.

It will be held on April 11th and 12th on the lawns below the Lakeside Optics shop, next to the tea rooms, at Chew Valley Lake.

Visitors will have the chance to view, get expert advice and buy, while testing out the equipment against this spectacular backdrop. There is also the opportunity to trade in old equipment in part-exchange.

As well as a huge range of exhibitors, experts like Chris Sperring, from the Hawk and Owl Trust, will be giving talks and demonstrations. Places for these are limited and need to be booked at 01275 332042.

Various societies, clubs and bird artists will be there – and there’s the chance to build your own next box on the Saturday.

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WILDLIFE

The fall of the barn owl – how you can help

THERE has been some media attention on barn owl numbers nationally and locally, so I thought I would devote this month’s wildlife article to the project that we – the Hawk and Owl Trust – are running jointly with the Somerset Wildlife Trust and funded by Viridor Landfill Credits.

By CHRIS Because of the loss of traditional nest sites, SPERRING barn owls are hugely reliant on man-made MBE boxes (around 75% of the pairs in Britain now rely on them), so when we launched the Somerset Community Barn Owl project in 2011 we set ourselves the goal of providing one free barn owl nest box for each parish in Somerset, 335 in all. At the time of writing we have achieved 263 boxes, with a further 72 to do before October this year.

When we started the project the national population was estimated to be between 4,000 and 6,000 pairs; however it could now be as low as 1,000 pairs. In Somerset, like many other parts of the country, there has been an 85% reduction in successful nest sites between 2011 and 2013, but why?

The simple answer is the weather. The first major extreme occurred in 2012 when the rain started falling in April and continued almost unbroken for most of the rest of the year. Barn owls cannot hunt in the rain, so most broods failed and very few chicks made it to fledging age and beyond. When this happens with a relatively short-lived species like the barn owl you need the following year to be a bumper year; bringing the number of young produced back into viable numbers.

However, from February to April 2013 the bitter winter winds from the north east meant that the grass did not grow, which meant the voles failed to breed and, to top it off, many areas were under snow for much of this time.

Now the effect was not on owlets but on the remaining breeding adult population. Between March and April we lost a huge number of barn owls from traditional sites where they have bred continually for decades. The owls that did make it to the end of the cold spell were either left without a mate, or were simply so depleted in body condition that they were unable to breed.

The result was that just 15% of the number of breeding pairs actually produced young, and many of those didn’t start nesting until the middle of the summer (after they had recovered) and so the chicks were fledging during the autumn and winter. Since then, of course, Somerset has seen the wettest winter on record

and the return of the floods!

Somerset is a hugely important county for the barn owl, being one of its last remaining strongholds. Owlets produced here are vitally important for repopulating surrounding areas. Each year I fit some of Somerset’s barn owl chicks with BTO rings, and the furthest recovery I’ve had so far was from Hull, showing that they will travel vast distances in search of a suitable territory.

Our project has enabled us to follow the fall of the barn owl over the past two years, but has also put us in a brilliant position to help aid their recovery. As well as nestboxes, barn owls also need food. They feed on a variety of small mammals, but by far the most important is the field vole; a surface dwelling animal which lives in rough grassland.

Farmers and other landowners can reproduce the habitat of the field vole by leaving small edges to fields as long grass, and this really does work well. I have visited nearly 500 farmers during this project and their support has been overwhelming. Thanks to them I am optimistic that within a few years barn owls can recover in Somerset; in fact many are already being rewarded for their field margins by seeing barn owls return to their farms after many years of being absent. We have even set up a camera in one of our nestboxes, which many Somerset schools are following via the internet and using as an educational tool. It can be viewed at: http://www.somersetwildlife.org/barn_owl_web_cam.html We can all help the barn owl’s recovery just by giving up a little bit of grass and letting it grow long; whether it’s in your garden, smallholding, farm or estate, it will make that difference to the variety of life by creating small mammal and invertebrate refuges and reservoirs from where they can multiply and spread; creating feeding areas for small birds and predators alike.

Due to the mild winter voles are already on the increase away from the flooded areas, so I am hopeful that where barn owls remain they will be able to produce good broods in 2014.

G If you own land and would like a box, please contact me for advice. Most of the free boxes have already been allocated in the Mendip area, with the exception of Downhead parish. There is a list of parishes that have still not been allocated a box here: http://www.somersetwildlife.org/parishes_needing_boxes.html If you know landowners in any of these parishes who would like to help please contact me. You can also report barn owl sightings here: http://www.somersetwildlife.org/report_a_sighting.html

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

Photography by Chris Sperring

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MENDIP TIMES

A mini Mendip ring from Burrington Ham

A CHANCE to experience a small but very beautiful and varied part of the new circular walking route, the Mendip Ring.

As reported in February’s Mendip Times, the Mendip Ramblers have devised a 117mile circular walk largely following the edge of Mendip. I decided to put together a six-mile circle linking two of the sections of the Ring in the heart of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

From Burrington Ham, it goes up to the highest point of Mendip, Beacon Batch, then on to Blackmoor Reserve at Charterhouse with its old mining flues and Roman history, Ubley Drove with wonderful views and then along an old track and back onto the Ham. For the next couple of months or so, depending on how quickly the ground dries up, it is best to wear good waterproof walking boots or wellies. Although many sections are dry and hard, there are some wet, boggy and muddy patches, although you can often find a way round these. It is a good walk for dogs, with few stiles and most of these could be negotiated.

PARK: At the top of Burrington Combe on the B3134 cross Mendip Road in the parking area for the Ham, before you reach the cattle grid, if coming up the Combe. There is often an ice cream van there. Or park a little further up in the layby on the opposite side by the Black Down sign and Ellick House. The walk goes up the track here.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

START: From the top (right hand end) of the parking area if facing into it, take a small path in the woods which shadows the road and brings you out further up, opposite Ellick House. Here turn right up the stony track, joining the Mendip Ring.

1. GATE At the end, go through a gate into the open access area of Black Down and soon reach a tall marker post. The arrow for the Mendip Ring could be misinterpreted here, so make sure you take the second main track from the right. It bears up fairly steadily and then climbs more steeply.

There are muddy and wet sections here.

Black Down is an open-access area mostly consisting of moors, with dense cover of associated vegetation such as heather and bracken. Try and come for the bluebell season (which is a couple of weeks later up here) and it will be awash with colour.

It is said that the name Black Down could come from the Saxon, ‘Blac’ or ‘Bloec’ meaning bleak, ‘Dun’ meaning down or fort. However, surely the dark peaty soil is reason enough!

At a fork, stay on the hard track (not the right hand grassy one) and this climbs up through more boggy areas to Beacon Batch and the trig at the highest point on Mendip at 1086 ft.

2. BEACON BATCH Beacon Batch is the site of bronze-age round barrows, one of which also anchors the concrete trig point. Go left on the main track heading for the twin masts in the distance which on a clear day you will see.

The track drops down and unfortunately has been very badly eroded. There is a plan afoot by the Mendip Hills Area of

Outstanding Natural Beauty office to repair these tracks and quite a job it will be.

Reach a gate and continue on the track, which again may be muddy. At a stile on the right Mendip Ring leaves and we continue on all the way up through a barrier to the twin masts.

3. MASTS Now on good firm footing, head along Rains Batch which drops downhill. On the right you can see the grassy bumpy remains of a Roman amphitheatre. A hoard of Roman coins was found near here in the late 19th century. Further on down on the right in Town Field, behind the bungalow which is the HQ of the Hawk and Owl Trust, was part of the Roman town settlement from the 1st century AD. It has been said that this township was bigger than Bath at that time.

At the foot turn right on the lane to Charterhouse. Go left over the first stile after a couple of minutes and down the right side of the field and then over a stile into Blackmoor Reserve. As you go down look over to your right and ahead and you may make out remains in the field of outer ditches of the Roman fort.

4. BLACKMOOR RESERVE Cross a footbridge and stay on the black path made of old mining remains or smitham. This was one of several centres for lead mining on Mendip which attracted the Romans here. A re-smelting industry grew up again in the mid-19th century to rework the left-over mining remains of previous centuries. On the other side of the pond area, keep on, up a small path and then two steps to the crossing track. Turn

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left. Follow this to a junction and keep straight on (not right) by ruins of former mine buildings.

After a few yards, you may like to go right to the flues. There used to be a tall chimney and a furnace where the lead was re-smelted. Some was collected immediately but much of it went into the flues. Lead collected on the flue walls and periodically the flues were shut off and youngsters or agile and small workers were sent down to scrape off the lead – a dangerous operation.

Carry on now, passing a pond, one of very few on Mendip. Go over footbridges into Nether Wood reserve, an area which to me has quite a primeval feel. Pass a bench to one of the former rangers. When the track bends right, go straight on along a smaller dirt path.

5. FIELDS This leads to a stile into fields, which can be quite marshy. I have reported to Somerset Rights of Way that this stile was impossible to climb and they are confident it will be repaired in time for you. (If not, see a change of route at the foot*). Once over, stay over to the left side and go through the fields, over a ladder stile enroute and to the stile in the corner.

6. UBLEY DROVE Cross the B3134 road and take Ubley Drove opposite. This is an old drove road used from at least medieval times to move sheep from lowland to upland common pastures. In spring this is a picture with snowdrops, primroses, daffodils and later some bluebells on the verges. Climb up to the top, passing farms, and then start to drop down.

Reach a junction with a right-hand track – there should be great views on a clear day across the Severn Estuary to Wales and across Wrington Vale up to the airport, as well as across both Blagdon and Chew Valley lakes and you

WALKING

6 miles, about 3 hours walking OS Explorer 141, Cheddar Gorge & Mendip Hills West, grid ref: 489 581

will get more views as you progress.

7. MENDIP RING Here rejoin the Mendip Ring going up left through a gate and along the right-hand edge of the field. At the end a gate leads onto a track, Leaze Lane between hedges.

Over right you can see Blagdon Lake down in the valley. Eventually, the lane/track bends down right and reaches the end of a Tarmac lane at Leaze Farm. Turn left and this takes you along to a road at Two Trees.

8. TWO TREES HILL The original Two Trees were at the junction with the main road up the top.

Turn right downhill alongside a line of beeches. After about four or five minutes look for a footpath over a stile on the left signed with the Mendip Ring logo. Cross the field diagonally and go out through a gate onto Ellick Road.

9. ELLICK ROAD Turn up left, passing houses, and turn right

on Newfields. Just before the first house on the right take the Mendip Ring path over a stile and along into a field. Continue on and in the far right corner cross another stile onto a track - Luvers Lane.

Turn left ignoring any side paths and the track runs straight into a field. Continue on along the left edge of the field. Don’t miss a stile on the left, signed for Mendip Ring.

Cross and go diagonally across to the far right corner and on along to a gate by Lower Ellick Farm. Turn left along the drive to the main road. Go right along the verge and through the gate by the cattle grid. Then go on down and take the small path through the woods back to the Ham parking area. (Alternatively for a quicker route back taking you on to the Ham, don’t cross the stile left, but just stay straight on and at the end of fields come onto the Ham. Turn left down to the car park).

The Mendip Ring is a new 117-mile circular route largely following the Somerset local government district of Mendip and is divided into nine sections.

There still may be a little more signing to complete. Full details on the website: mendipring.org.uk * Change of Route. If stile has not been repaired return to the track you have just left and turn left continuing to bend round through the wood and reach a T-junction.

Turn left going through a couple of gates and then onto a drive, all in the same direction. Carry on to reach the main road.

Here you have to turn left and follow the grass verge. This is a busy road so take care. Reach Ubley Drove, turn right and follow the main instructions.

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 51

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MENDIP TIMES

OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s Diary

With LES DAVIES MBE

AT last I have a reason to believe! The weather is changing, the evenings are getting lighter and I think spring could be on the way. I’ve seen the first of the spring lambs with their wobbly legs and shaking tails, the first golden celandines are cautiously showing their heads above ground, whilst the primrose (which always seems to be in flower) is wondering what

all the fuss is about.

According to my diary, spring begins with the Vernal Equinox on March 20th; from here on in the weather should be improving. I’m finding that my memory is being very kind to me and after only a few days without rain, I am forgetting those seemingly endless days of bad weather.

Instead there is hope for the future and a longing to see another English spring. Do you remember Robert Browning’s poem that I included in my article this time last year? Check it out again via Google, “Thoughts from abroad” – it’s well worth a second read.

Season’s change, we are all changing, the countryside around us is changing and some of those things that we hold dear and have fond memories of will change as well. For me one such place is the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury, which was due to close at the end of March for a couple of years.

Thankfully it is not closing forever, but it will be closed whilst a major re-fit takes place to improve access and educational facilities. There can be no doubt that this work is needed to ensure the museum remains ‘alive’, but I cannot help but feel a loss for something that has been a part of my life for such a long time.

I have been connected with the museum since the late 1970s when I was the orchards advisor in mid-Somerset for the cider company Coates Gaymers, based in Shepton Mallet. I helped set up the orchard that stands alongside the Abbey Barn and in the early 80s I grafted a small collection of local cider varieties to make the museum self-sufficient with fruit for the annual cider pressing demonstration.

It wasn’t long before I was helping with the cider pressing, eventually taking it on. I did the last one in October 2013, helped by my daughter Lizzie, who also became the Wassail Queen in 2014. Through what I still believe to be destiny, she chose the piece of cake with the bean hidden inside. She had always wanted to be the Wassail Queen!

It wasn’t just the apple side of the museum that interested me; it was the whole ‘rural’ feel of the place. The old farmhouse with its kitchen range, that spread a warm and familiar glow throughout the room; the wooden floorboards and staircase that had seen the passing of generations and felt the pounding of countless footfalls.

My children still remember the small Christmas gatherings at the museum and the smell of mulled cider on the range, as they sat staring into the embers of the fire, it made the whole place feel so magical. There were the warm early autumn days, when I would bring my old International B 450 tractor in to drive the threshing machine.

People loved to see this old kit in action, and became mesmerised by the hum of the machinery, as the thresher and

Les in action at the museum

tractor gently rocked back and forth. I always knew when I had the flat belt running at exactly the right speed – I could lean against the tractor back wheel and feel that gentle rocking motion.

The museum will hold many memories for many people; it was a place where things ‘happened’. It wasn’t just glass cabinets and preserved artefacts, there was a real ‘lived-in’ feeling about the place that I think its previous occupants would have approved of. It was the museum of rural life in Somerset, and I hope that will not change in the future.

As always with such change there will be the impact on those who work at the museum, and who over the years have come to know it and understand its importance. Their knowledge will now be lost as they move and find other jobs. I doubt they will return once the museum opens again. To all of them I would say “Than you”, thank you for all those years of enjoyment that you have given me and many other people and thank you for keeping the Somerset Rural Life Museum alive.

Don’t forget its Mothers Day on Sunday March 30th. British Summer Time begins on the same day, so put your clocks forward the night before. It will be so good to have the longer daylight hours, and with them a little warmth, I hope. The garden is in desperate need of my attention, after all there has been very little opportunity to do anything over the winter, or very little inclination for that matter. Now I am feeling that need to get out there and get on with things; that only comes once the weather turns for the better and the blackbird is once again giving his vocal all at the end of the day.

My mother was talking about double summer time during the war when I was on the phone to her the other day, and how she and my eldest uncle Geoff were allowed to stay up late during the school summer holiday. She recalls being in the left-hand steep ground at 10pm at night whilst the hay was still being brought in! We think that we work long hours sometimes, but this was capturing every bit of daylight and stretching every muscle and sinew for those who worked on the land back then.

Finally, don’t forget the Arthritis Research UK walk on Saturday April 19th. It’s Easter weekend so we are all hoping for good weather. Around nine miles of open farmland and woodland, as written up by Sue Gearing last month’s edition; come and join us if you can.

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

PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

YEO VALLEY ‘Over the next few months Yeo Valley will be bringing you a wide selection of guest writers from different areas of the family farm. Ranging from news from the garden, the farm team, the Mead family plus many more, we’ll be sharing a little about what’s going on behind the scenes here in the valley. Happy reading!’

RICHARD SEARLE HERD MANAGER AT YEO VALLEY’S HOLT FARM

WE’D like you to meet Richard, who is Dairy Herd Manager at Yeo Valley’s Holt Farm in Blagdon. With his team, Richard has looked after the health and welfare of 240 British Friesian cows for nearly 16 years. Here is a snapshot of Richard’s day.

4.00am: The alarm goes off and it’s straight up and out of bed to arrive at the farm for 4:30am. As its winter, the weather is cold and wet and the grass has stopped growing so the cows are housed. In the summer I have to walk out to where they are grazing to get them in for milking. I have a quick chat with the herdsman who is getting the parlour ready for milking and do a check round to see if all is ok, and if any cows are calving and may need assistance.

While the herdsman gets on with milking, I cut the silage out of the silage clamp and put it in the mixer wagon. The mixer is a bit like a big Kenwood Chef on wheels. I add some molasses, rolled cereals and mineral supplements and set it mixing for five minutes or so. A cow at the peak of production is like an Olympic athlete at the peak of performance in terms of her nutritional requirements, so it is important that she gets the best feed for her needs. Once all the adult cows are fed it is starting to get light, I collect milk from the dairy and go and feed the young calves.

9.30am: We stop for breakfast and then have the records to update, as well as routine jobs around the farm such as cleaning and tidying, machinery maintenance and cow tasks.

1pm: We break for lunch and will be back at the farm around 2:30pm to get ready for afternoon milking and feeding the calves

again. A big part of any herd managers job involves observation and is about recognising and responding to the signals that cows show. This can include leaning on a gate just looking at cows.

I finish about 5pm to 5.30pm while the herdsman will finish milking and washing round by 6.30pm. One of us will check the cows in the evening mostly to look for cows “bulling” or coming into season.

9pm: The main lights go out and the red night lights come on so all is quiet until it all starts again tomorrow.

Over the years Richard has worked at every one of the Yeo Valley farms. He knows all the cow families at Yeo Valley and no doubt has his own favourites. Perhaps that is why Lakemead Lupin 44 is nicknamed Bertha, after his dog. This September is going to be very special as Richard and his fiancée Lucy are planning their wedding. Richard and Lucy live nearby in Redhill with their family of three Jack Russell terriers, Bertha, Button and Bruce. Lucy is a vet which is really handy if Richard needs a hand to calve a cow.

If you’re interested in finding out more, visit www.yeovalley.co.uk

Yeo Valley are proud to host Theatre Orchard’s Production of ‘One Man and his Cow’.

To find out more, please visit www.yeovalley.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 53

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April showers bring forth May flowers

APRIL is a busy month for gardeners.

Everything is waking up after the winter including the weeds and it appears that everything needs attention. If you can get your garden up to scratch before the end of April you stand a fighting chance of keeping it under control for the season!

With MARY After the wettest winter on record the PAYNE MBE grass in the fields and on our lawns is looking a bit off-colour and is in need of a boost of nitrogen to improve the colour and encourage it to thicken up. Moss will be a problem on many lawns too, so an application of a weed, feed and moss product now will solve both problems.

Take great care to apply these products evenly and at the correct rate, as overdosing can have a catastrophic effect, and turn your lawn black! Equally under-dosing will not give an effective kill of moss or weeds. Once the moss has gone black it can be raked out. If you haven’t already started mowing then set the blades high for the first couple of cuts.

There is no doubt that a well-managed lawn sets off a garden.

The smaller the lawn the more important it is to look good. In larger gardens the overall effect is green and a few weeds are less of an eyesore.

Not only will your grass be short of nitrogen after all the rain has leached it out, but our borders and overwintered vegetables would also benefit for an application of a general fertiliser such as Growmore. Make sure that the foliage of plants is dry when spreading it, so that the granules of fertiliser bounce off the leaves rather than sticking to them and scorching. It is equally important to ensure that the fertiliser is spread evenly over the root zone of plants, and again is applied at the correct rate.

Overdosing can have dire consequences to plants, even death!

Plug plants, purchased online, will be arriving this month.

This is an excellent way to buy young plants for containers and baskets, and the packaging these days ensures they arrive, usually in excellent condition. On arrival, unpack immediately and stand the plugs in a shallow tray of water to recover from their postal ordeal.

Mini-plugs can be pricked out into larger cell trays, by pushing an appropriately sized small piece of stick through the hole in the base, rather than tugging the plant by its top. Jack Frost is still lurking about to catch us out, so ensure the young plants are grown in frost-free conditions and given plenty of light. Baskets and containers can be planted up in mid-May, full of optimism for a stunning summer display.

My least favourite garden chore is staking perennials that have a tendency to flop. Often we do not get around to this job until the plant has leant onto its neighbour, corrected itself and grown vertical again. Staking at this stage is like trying to straighten a right angle. I try to avoid growing such plants, but every year I vow to be better organised and stake before they flop.

I prefer the half-circle stakes with two legs, but delphiniums (if the slugs have left them alone) are safer if each stem is individually tied to a cane. Take great care with bamboo canes, as more accidents occur using them than with mowers, and sadly these accidents often involve eyes. It is safer only to use bamboo canes if they are as tall or taller than you are. An alternative to staking for some plants is to give them the “Chelsea Chop”. This involves cutting back the growth they PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

have made in mid-May. This encourages the plant to start again and in the remaining growing period before flowering it does not have time to get so tall. Plants such as phlox, tall asters and monarda all respond well, although you may find they flower a tad later than normal.

April is the ideal time to sow annual flowers direct into the garden. Easy hardy annuals can be used to make a useful cutting bed by sowing rows across a veg patch or raised bed. Pot marigold, cornflower, Ammi majus, clarkia and love lies bleeding all work well and can be picked for the house without spoiling the effect in borders.

For a spare patch of ground that needs brightening for the summer try one of the wealth of annual flower mixes that are on offer. Prepare the soil well to make a seed bed, as if sowing a lawn. Scatter the seed at the recommended rate and simply rake in lightly. Keep the area watered and watch it grow.

A similar mix was used to great effect in the Olympic Park in 2012. I used the same mix, called “Golden Girl” last year and was delighted with the results. The carefully selected mix of annuals, sold online by Pictorial Meadows, started flowering six to eight weeks after sowing, and continued well into the autumn.

The vegetable plot will be well underway by now, but now that the soil has warmed up French and Runner beans can be sown direct. It is always a toss-up which will do best. The weather forecasters keep hinting that we may have a hot summer, in which case I would put my money on French beans, but to hedge my bets I have seed of both.

I am trying ‘Firestorm’ runner bean which is a new, completely self-fertile variety, and therefore is reputed to give a better set in dry weather, but I have also got seed of a climbing French bean ‘Cobra’.

Let’s look forward to a great garden season.

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GARDENING

APRIL GARDEN TIPS

G Plant main crop potatoes. Early varieties may need earthing up to exclude the light from the tubers. Cover shoots with fleece to protect from frost damage.

G Sow more peas and broad beans. Support early sown varieties. Make a first sowing of French Beans towards the end of the month.

G Sow vegetable varieties that have inherent pest and disease resistance- Beetroot Boltardy (doesn’t run to seed), Carrot F1 Flyaway (carrot fly), Cucumber F1 Bella (mildew), Parsnip F1 Albion (rust and Canker) and the blight resistant Tomato F1 Fantasio.

G Start spraying your vegetable plants regularly with Garlic Wonder. This will keep masses of pests away without tasting of garlic. It’s especially good with the cabbage family.

G Sow perpetual spinach, leeks, radish, turnips, lettuces, carrots, beetroot, Swiss chard and summer cauliflowers outside.

G Protect flowers on peaches, nectarines and apricots from frost. Use a soft brush to hand pollinate blooms and increase chances of a good crop.

G If your apples and pears suffered from scab last year, spray with Systhane Fungus Fighter now.

G Give blackcurrants, blackberries and other hybrid berries a top dressing of sulphate of ammonia.

G Pot grown fruit trees and bushes can still be planted this month but it’s getting late!

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists

Cost less than the neighbours think!

Hutton Garden Centre, Banwell Road, Hutton, Weston-super-Mare BS24 9UB

Tel: 01934 813261 www.westongarden.co.uk

Cleeve Nursery & Box Tree Café Your Independent Garden Centre with great advice and home grown plants!

Come and see chicks hatching Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Easter gifts, houseplants and delicious food!

Cleeve Nursery & Box Tree Café, Cleeve, Bristol BS49 4PW Tel 01934 832134 Email info@cleevenursery.co.uk cleevenursery.co.uk/blog/ www.cleevenursery.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 55

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MENDIP TIMES

Step this way

PERFECT Pave is a well-established local firm offering a wide range of durable and attractive surfaces. They offer stunning natural stone patios, walls and driveway areas.

Hard garden landscaping is also available and with over 15 years experience you can be confident that Perfect Pave can fulfill all aspects of work from design to supply and install.

Perfect Pave’s new purpose-built showroom in Cheddar offers full ranges of products allowing the client to view all aspects of style and products available before they choose.

Perfect Pave are linked with all major suppliers and are able to offer all forms of aggregates and surfaces tailored to your requirements. Please ring or email for your free on-site visit and quotation.

Block Paving Patios Resin Surfaces

NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH

Rose Cottage and Coley Court, East Harptree

NODDING hellebores and cheerful narcissi and primroses, to cheer the spirits after a long wet winter, can be enjoyed in two contrasting gardens in East Harptree.

Rose Cottage, Smithams Hill, BS40 6BY is a one-acre hillside cottage garden with panoramic views over Chew Valley. It is bordered by a stream and established mixed hedges and contains a variety of flowering shrubs, trees and carpeted with spring bulbs. There are plenty of seating areas, including a new large arbour, to enjoy the views and teas as well as the music of Congresbury Brass Band.

Coley Court, BS40 6AN is a one-acre garden in the valley surrounding a Jacobean house (not open) with drifts of narcissi. The garden contains many established trees, shrubs, spring bulbs and vegetable area within the surrounding stone walls. There is also an acre of old mixed orchard.

NGS opening details: Sunday April 13th, 2pm to 5pm.

Visitors also welcome at Rose Cottage, by appointment, between April and July.

Admission: Combined admission £4.50 with accompanied children free.

Contact Information: Bev and Jenny Cruse Telephone: 01761 221627. Email: banjcruse@gmail.com

SHOWROOM: 2B, VALLEY LINE INDUSTRIAL PARK, CHEDDAR, BS27 3EE

FULL RANGE OF SAMPLES IN STOCK

TEL. 01934 740163 www.perfectpave.com

PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Other Gardens Open for the NGS To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, soon to be available from local Garden Centres. Or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk

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Tree and garden experts

YOU may just want your grass cut or your borders trimmed from time to time or have your garden maintained regularly; you may want work or advice on the trees in your garden or be looking for a fully-fledged tree management system. You might, on the other hand, think it’s time to have your garden redesigned and your garden dreams realised.

A1 Gardening and Tree Surgery provides quality grounds maintenance, tree surgery and landscaping services to domestic and commercial clients. Fully insured and qualified, the business has grown over the years to 10 employees with a wide range of skills and expertise. They work with private individuals and large commercial clients alike to produce the best results and make your environment a great place to spend your time.

They’re experienced enough and flexible enough to help you get all those jobs on your to do lists done. They provide advice and help to insure you get the great outdoor space you have dreamed of, from a small patio to larger public spaces.

Get in touch now for a chat about your project and let them build you a great new environment.

GARDENING

CONTRACT GRASS CUTTING GARDENING LANDSCAPING TREE SURGERY COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC FENCING SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS COMPOST, MULCHES & BARK DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL FREE QUOTATIONS & ADVICE

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 57

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Consult the expert

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

WHO can resist those beautifully arranged plants just by the garden centre checkout? You take one home, you don’t know where to put it and you have no idea how it will look among your other plants. But don’t panic, help is at hand.

Garden designer and tutor Christine Pritchard is running a short course where you will learn about the principles of planting design. Christine will discuss a range of trees, shrubs and perennials that will be suitable for your garden and with her expert guidance you can create a planting plan for your own borders.The course takes place at Stoke Lodge, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, Friday April 25th, Friday May 9th and Friday May 16th from 10am-3pm, £90/£45.

You don’t need to be a knowledgeable gardener or fluent in Latin to enjoy this informal course.

More details from Christine Pritchard 01761 221166

Garden centre flies into spring

AS the second year of the Artisan Market starts, Jon Browne from Browne’s Garden Centre is delighted to host the spring Artisan Market on Saturday April 12th, from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Local artists, food producers and a selection of the finest craft businesses showcase their wares. As well as a fantastic selection of stalls there will be music from local choir, Jazzm’tazz, and a large chocolate egg raffle for the market’s charity for 2014 which is Somerset Air Ambulance.

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

PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

COME AND RELAX IN OUR COFFEE SHOP AND THEN SELECT FROM OUR LARGE SELECTION OF CONTAINER GROWN SHRUBS, CONIFERS &PERRENIALS NEW SEASON ROSES, FRUIT &ORNAMENTAL TREES HUGE SELECTION OF TERRACOTTA & GLAZED POTS PLUS ALL YOUR GARDEN SUNDRY REQUIRMENTS OPEN 9-5:30PM MON – SAT 10-5PM SUN COFFEE SHOP 10.30-4PM TUES—SUN

GLASTONBURY ROAD WELLS TEL 01749 673050

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A hidden gem

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SITUATED a short distance from the A370 Bristol to Weston road, on the edge of the village of Congresbury, Middlecombe Nursery, run by Nigel and Isy North, is in a lovely country setting with woods bordering the three-acre site.

With ample parking for all, opening times are 10am to 5pm daily for both trade and retail customers. The sales area is set out for easy accessibility where you can browse leisurely while choosing your plants or find what you are looking for straight away. A friendly and knowledgeable team led by Isy and Nigel is always on hand to help, often able to supply difficult to find plants from a network of other specialist nurseries.

At Middlecombe Nursery you are guaranteed to find a huge range of plants, mostly home-grown, specialising in big plants

GARDENING

for ‘instant gardens’. A fine selection of trees, conifers, bamboos, shrubs and climbers, perennials, grasses, ferns, exotics and topiary are readily available, all of excellent quality, while the display gardens, created in different styles and using a great range of plants and features, offer ideas which can be used in your own garden together with a wonderful chance to see many of the nursery plants ‘fully grown’.

It’s well worth mentioning too that they often deliver to site, covering the South West counties with a relatively small charge for transport costs.

Isy and Nigel have a vast plant knowledge between them, having been in the business for over 40 years and this is supplemented by their nursery team, who take pride in always being able to give valuable advice and good service and, should a specific plant prove impossible to source, can often suggest a viable close substitute or alternative.

Purveyors of the finest hardy perennials, shrubs, trees, climbers, exotics and specimens

Wrington Road, Congresbury BS49 5AN. Tel: 01934 876337 www.middlecombenursery.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 59

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MENDIP TIMES

BUY YOUR PLANTS DIRECT FROM THE GROWER GARDEN CENTRE AND CAFE NURSERY ESTABLISHED 1976

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

Regular lawn mowing plus lawn mowing for any small or large areas.

Hotels, Pubs, Residential/Nursing Homes, Private Homes. etc.

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

GARDEN CENTRE

G 60 litre Woodland Multi-Purpose Compost £3.00 each OR 3 for £10 G 9cm perennials and alpines £1.39 each OR 10 for £12 G Seasonal beddings and basket plants and planted hanging baskets – Ready from Mid-April

CARRIAGES CAFE

Freshly prepared Main Meals and Desserts, Cream Teas with Homemade Scones, Light Bite Menu and Daily Specials and a range of Gluten-Free Homemade Cakes.

Lunchtime bookings advisable.

G Garden Centre Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 9.30am – 4.30pm, Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm: Telephone 01275 856675 G Carriage Café Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 10.00am – 4.00pm, Sun 11.00am – 4.00pm: Telephone 07891 726714

GARDEN PARK GARDEN CENTRE, 100 CLEVEDON ROAD, TICKENHAM, NR. CLEVEDON BS21 6RE

Norton Green Farm Garden Centre and Nursery WELCOMES YOU THIS SPRING

Stump Grinding and Wood Chipping 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 PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

• Summer bulb range & seed potatoes. Vegetable plants arriving soon • Unwins, Fothergills, Johnsons & Country Value seed collections together with specialist range

by Sarah Raven & sweet peas • Good selection of terracotta, glazed, fibreclay & plastic pots, troughs & containers • Compost, mulches & barks, including multibuy and special offers • Wild bird food & feeders • National Garden Gift Vouchers sold & redeemed • Cut flowers & house plants • Wide range of gifts and cards Also available: • Gravel & grits, paving & walling • Fencing, posts & trellis etc.

• Turf available weekly to order LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10.30am-4.30pm

Wells Road, Chilcompton, Nr. Bath Tel: 01761 232137 E. nortongreenfarm@tiscali.co.uk

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Mowers and more

(Photo courtesy of Phil Gray)

Seed swap show is growing

GARDENING

Andy and Jeanette in the showroom at Mendip Mowers

Browsing the range of seeds donated by visitors to the seed swap table

MORE than 300 gardeners and growers attended the fifth Seedy Saturday seed swap, potato day and green fair held at Farmborough Memorial Hall.

Growers came from Bristol, Bath, the surrounding villages and as far away as Cornwall, Surrey and Shrewsbury to enjoy the annual event dedicated to gardening, growing and community activities.

The event has now outgrown its venue in Farmborough and will move next year to the Conygre Hall in Timsbury. Organiser Sam Ross said: “It doesn’t seem like five minutes since Seedy Saturday held its first seed swap in Farmborough. Five years on and we have regulars that see us as the start of their growing season, plus new gardeners looking for advice and help to get growing, and families coming to enjoy the range of activities available for all ages.”

For more information, visit: www.getseedy.co.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!!'

WITH a history dating back 30 years, Mendip Mowers is the place to visit for high-specification Honda machinery.

Based at Chapmanslade, just outside Frome, Mendip Mowers is run by Andy Brake and his wife Jeanette. They are the only Honda dealership in the area and pride themselves on offering an excellent after-sales service.

Andy and Jeanette took over the business in 2011. It originated in Coxley near Wells but moved to Frome in 1983. Andy has a background in farming and the couple run Newlands Tree Care alongside Mendip Mowers. The idea of taking on the mower business came about because Andy had been using Mendip Mowers for spares and repairs.

The couple – they have just taken on Tom Bolton as a Honda apprentice – are enthusiastic about their Honda product range.

Andy said: “There is a simple reason why you will see so many Honda products still hard at work after many years of service; they are built to last. It’s a fact supported by some of the longest warranties you’ll find anywhere. We have customers who have owned Honda equipment for 25 years and more. There is also a tremendous level of brand loyalty.”

Honda’s range caters both for professional use as well as the domestic market. Amongst the latest domestic equipment is the revolutionary Versatool™ with multi-attachments. Jeanette said: “The New Versatool™ takes the hard work out of keeping your garden neat and tidy.”

Mendip Mowers also offer a range of Stihl machinery such as chainsaws.

You need Honda machines from Mendip Mowers Mendip Mowers is your local authorised Honda Dealer for Trowbridge, Bradford on Avon, Westbury, Warminster and Frome – we continue to supply and service the full range of Honda Lawnmowers, Brushcutters, hedgetrimmers, tillers and snowblowers.

At Mendip Mowers and Newlands Tree Care we strive to offer the service we would look for from other providers: friendly, genuine, prompt and reliable.

www.mendipmow ers.co.uk • 0 137 3 832 965 Gr een Farm Indus trial Es tate, Chapman slade, B A13 4JJ MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 61

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Bishop & Co are growing!

DUE to their recent success, Bishop & Co have announced the expansion of their lettings offering into Mid-Somerset and Bristol. Together, team members Wendy Green and Keren Tyler (pictured) boast over 25 years’ of property management and lettings experience.

Bishop & Co offer a range of lettings and property management services, including their Gold, Silver, Bronze and Key Holding packages, all providing an exemplary level of service at completive rates. You can learn more about these at www.bishopandco.co.uk.

Bishop & Co also offer Estate Agency and Financial Services, so if you’re looking for the right investment property, they could help you to find and finance it. Contact them to book your free consultation and property appraisal, to find a new rental property, or to simply get advice on all aspects of letting a property.

Severe weather hits market GROWTH in would-be buyers in the South West dropped to its lowest point in over a year and a half during February, as flooding hit the region and the initial clamour from those previously shut out of the property market began to level off, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Buyer numbers increased at their slowest rate since June 2012 as the initial surge in demand, driven by the more accessible housing market, dropped. However, the amount of homes coming up for sale in the region also fell significantly during February, reaching its lowest point in almost ten years.

RICS says it is perhaps unsurprising that limited activity has coincided with the recent flooding and adverse weather, and it remains to be

• Lettings and Property Management • Not for Profit – Community Interest Company (CIC) • Rent Guarantee on managed properties • Free property consultations and valuations • No Let, No Fee Website: www.keyringlettings.co.uk Telephone: 01749 681356 Email: welcome@keyringlettings.co.uk

Landlords and Investors – contact us now quoting Bishop01 to receive a

50% reduction on our Gold and Silver set-up charges Bishop & Co – Helping you make all the right moves

PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

seen what impact the floods will have on the South West market over the coming months.

Moving on to prices, the cost of a home in the South West continued to rise during February, albeit at a slightly slower pace than in previous months, with 36 per cent more chartered surveyors seeing prices rise rather than fall.

Looking at the UK as a whole, the cost of a home has now risen across the country for 11 consecutive months.

Looking ahead, in spite of the recent dip, respondents predict both prices and transaction levels to continue to increase as we enter the summer months where the market traditionally starts to pick up.

Roger Punch, RICS Residential Spokesperson for the South West, said: “The recovery in the South West housing market has been severely impacted by the flooding in the region, although this is a localised issue with this downturn not seen everywhere.

The imbalance between supply and demand is as ever present and some areas still remain the strongest they have been for some time.

“As the weather improves we are already seeing the volume of sales increasing, with many properties that have been on the market for some time gaining offers.”

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A new kind of lettings agency

KEYRING Lettings is a new concept in the property lettings market. The organisation is a “not for profit’’ Community Interest Company (CIC) which provides a comprehensive, caring and high quality lettings and management service throughout the Mendip area.

It’s run by a team of voluntary unpaid professional directors supported by two full time staff, Coral Gale and Jane Weddell (pictured both formerly of Stoberry Lettings, Wells). They have nearly 20 years of experience in the lettings industry between them.

Landlords are invited to an open day on Tuesday April 8th, from 3pm to 8pm, at their new office at 50, High Street, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5AS.

PROPERTY W

NE

NORTH SOMERSET

Superb views in all directions offered by this large detached chalet bungalow, standing in garden and yard of .86 acre. A former boarding kennel. Substantial purpose built outbuildings. Accom: 4 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, three bathrooms, kitchen.

EPC E ref: 24672 PRICE GUIDE: £450,000

W

NE

BROCKLEY

Coach house and stable conversion located down long drive in a ‘park like’ setting. The main house has three reception rooms and three bedrooms, two bathrooms and stylish contemporary ‘live in’ kitchen and laundry. The annexed cottage is a good size with accommodation on two floors of three bedrooms, sitting room, kitchen and bathroom.

Double garage and walled garden. EPC F. ref: 24674 PRICE GUIDE: £750,000

Wrington Tel: 01934 864300

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Time to expand

Coming to Yeovil: Nicky and Neil Halford with Mr Lion, the Times is Precious mascot

THE Coleford-based children’s charity Time is Precious is to expand its work into the Yeovil area.

It has joined forces with Yeovil District Hospital to provide much-needed equipment to help ease the lives of children and their families.

TIP’s first work has been to donate a mobile sensory unit to the children’s ward and it is pledging to raise more than £10,000 towards a new special care baby unit at the hospital. This will go towards a new family room for the parents TIP was launched in 2011 by Neil and Nicky Halford in memory of their son Ben, who lost his battle against a brain tumour. The couple said: “Ben spent a lot of time in hospital during his illness. We found it very difficult to occupy him, especially as he had special needs and bed bound some of the time.

“We realise how difficult it is whilst in hospital with a child who has any illness and we are trying to alleviate this problem, as well as encouraging children to distract them from medical surroundings, and bringing the family together; when there is a sibling at home they often feel isolated.”

TIP supports Bristol Children’s Hospital, the Barbara Russell Unit at Frenchay Hospital and children’s services at Bath’s Royal United Hospital. The charity says any money raised within the Yeovil catchment area will be spent on Yeovil hospital.

PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Music hall money

THE Woodlanders, based at East Woodlands, near Frome are giving away money! Their famous Music Hall raised £3,000 for good causes last year.

The donations went to Dorothy House, S.O.D.A, P.A.C., Gym Finity, MCT, St Katherine’s Church, Frome Carnival, Mothers Union, Forever Friends, Life Education, Wessex, Kids Out and Samvantva Juniors Carnival Club If you belong to or know of a local club/charity or good cause send requests to: Mr D. Covill, Chairman, The Woodlanders, 6 Marston Road, Frome, Somerset. BA11 4DA. All requests should be received as soon as possible, since decisions will be made at the AGM on April 14th.

The agm will be at 8pm at the Horse and Groom Pub, East Woodlands. This year’s shows will be from Monday 13th until Saturday October 18th at East Woodlands Village Hall, 7.45pm.

Details: Joy on 01373 463643 or go to www.thewoodlanders.org.uk

Mary Berry backs appeal

GREAT British Bake Off Judge Mary Berry is supporting Bath Cancer Unit Support Group’s £1.2million Positron Scanner Appeal and visited the cancer unit at the Royal United Hospital to meet staff and members of the charity.

The acquisition of this scanner is viewed as one of the most significant developments in the treatment of cancer at the RUH. It will not only greatly enhance the treatment of certain cancers but will prevent patients from having to undertake the journey to Cheltenham for such scans.

Since BCUSG was founded in 1985, it has raised more than £3.27million, providing a range of facilities for cancer patients at The RUH. So far the scanner appeal has raised a further £717,000.

Mary Berry is pictured with the charity’s chairman and chief executive John Carter.

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CHARITIES

In memory of Lee

School aids rotary

THE Glastonbury-based charity, Riders In The Sky, which has raised nearly £25,000 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, has two big events planned in the next couple of months.

The charity was formed after the untimely death of local fireman and experienced motorcyclist Lee Baker on the morning of November 8th, 2010. Lee was an avid charity worker and the group was formed to carry on his work.

Their first fundraising event, Rits Day in May 2011, was a 70mile motorcycle ride-out and a family fun day. It was so popular with the local community they now continue it every year.

Other events have included a 95ft motorbike river jump and a mouse racing evening. This year’s mouse race will be held on Friday March 28th. Rits Day will be held at Tor Leisure on May 25th from 12noon.

They try to make it a real treat for the community, with free entry, with many attractions, including a motorbike ride out (10.30), live bands, children’s rides, special guests, darts and football tournaments, auction and raffle, car display, plus plenty more to get involved with.

KEN Biggs from Chelwood Rotary collected a cheque for £615.64 from Chewton Mendip School to help the rotary club’s Water Survival Box scheme.

The school’s fundraising effort was inspired by Typhoon Hyan in the Philippines. Money was raised by cake sales, laying pennies on themed artwork in the playground, researching and dressing as natural disasters, collections from the school’s nativity and carol concert and the Send a Smile alternative Christmas messages.

Details: 07821 235000 www.ritsday.co.uk

New charity

A NEW charity, the Southern Rural Network, based at Banwell Children’s Centre, has been officially opened by Weston MP John Penrose.

It has been formed to provide information about constructive, safe activities for people under 19 in Banwell, Bleadon, Hutton, Locking, Sandford and Winscombe. It’s been set up and run by volunteers from local youth centres and works closely with local schools and clubs.

Its long-term aims are to lower anti-social behaviour, reduce obesity and provide facilities in the villages to match the towns.

Initially, it will promote after-school activity in all primary schools in the area, promote clubs, identify key projects and raise the necessary funds.

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Club seeks new players

BOCCIA, a form of bowls for people with severe physical disabilities, is gaining support in Timsbury. Leonard Cheshire Disability’s Greenhill House Boccia team is now affiliated with Boccia England.

The team play once a month at the Conygre Hall in Timsbury, with the next session on Thursday April 17th, starting at 2.45pm. Additional practice sessions are held on the first Monday of the month at Greenhill House, at 6.30pm.

The club wants to encourage more disabled people from the local community to have a go and hopefully get involved in local competitions. Boccia coach Dave Ransom is pictured in the Activity Centre. Some players use the Boccia England adaptive ramps developed for players who don’t throw.

Flood collections

WESTON Rotary Club and West Woodspring Inner Wheel have been out in force collecting money for Somerset Flood Relief, raising £1,341 in two days. It will go into the Rotary District Flood Relief Fund. John and Francis Haycock of Weston Rotary Club and West Woodspring Inner Wheel are pictured collecting at Morrisons.

Binegar’s bid bears fruit

LOCAL fundraising and support from their MP has led to the unveiling of heart defibrillator equipment in the village of Binegar, near Shepton Mallet.

Wells MP Tessa Munt invited bids from every parish in her constituency for the equipment which was donated by the Plymouth Brethren congregation in Yeovil. Binegar’s bid – led by villager Cath Law – was judged to be the best.

Donations from local businesses and collection boxes in the village stores and post office and the two village pubs – The George Inn and the Horse and Jockey – raised enough money to buy the cabinet installed outside Binegar Memorial Hall.

People in the village are being encouraged to sign up to a free session to teach them CPR.

PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Flood aid

VILLAGERS from Ston Easton have pulled together and organised a charity concert to raise funds to help relieve the plight of the victims of recent flood disasters in Somerset.

The entertainment will be freely provided by members of the local community ranging from professional singers, to the winners of the Mendip’s Got Talent competition.

During an interval refreshments will be available as well as a raffle with some fantastic prizes. Tickets are £5 each and can be obtained by ringing Val on 01761 241617.

The evening, at Ston Easton Village Hall, begins at 7.30pm, on Saturday April 12th. All funds raised will be sent via Somerset Community Foundation to Somerset Emergency Flood Relief Fund.

Details: floodaid2014.blogspot.co.uk or visit the village web site at www.stoneaston.org

Help at your fingertips

THE Community Council for Somerset (CCS) has launched a new-look website, which it hopes will help it reach out to more people and communities.

The site at www.somersetrcc.org.uk has enhanced navigation and is packed with up-to-date information. CCS has streamlined the website’s menus to give visitors quick access to the items they are looking for including: • A comprehensive ‘Our Work’ page • ‘Latest News’ posts on information and useful updates • Updates from CCS on Twitter & Facebook – your opportunity to interact with CCS. Chief Executive Katherine Armstrong said: “Although our website has a new look, our work and commitment to Somerset’s communities is stronger than ever.

“It is important that CCS remains part of Somerset’s communities both on the ground and online. This stride towards a greater online presence will help us to reach a different audience and allows us access to a whole host of other organisations, individuals and groups.

“We have so much to offer and we want to ensure we are reaching as many people and communities as possible.”

Tessa Munt (centre) is pictured with Cath Law, parish councillor Gus Halfhide, local businessman Adrian Willmott, who helped with the fundraising, alongside Ralph Barter and youngsters from the Yeovil brethren congregation

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Zumba rumble raises money for research

CHARITIES

NORTON Radstock Ladies Circle teamed up with Bev’s Fitness to hold a two-hour party style Zumbathon at Writhlington Sports Centre to raise £1,600 for Leukaemia and Lymphona Research.

OBE for Hugo Pike

ROTARIAN, Hugo Pike, who lives in Pensford with his wife Jane, was formally invested as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) at an investiture conducted by the Queen at Windsor Castle.

Hugo is a member and former president of the Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge and was the founder chairman of Worldwaterworks Ltd – the Rotary charity that sends life-saving water survival boxes to areas hit by natural or manmade disasters worldwide.

Hugo was delighted to have his wife, Jane, and their two sons, Shaun and Ian, in the audience.

He said: “While I feel very honoured to receive the award I see it as a tribute to all the trustees and our fellow Rotarians from Chelwood Bridge who have given their time, physical effort and various talents towards the team effort.

“It also recognises the army of volunteers who daily work for the benefit of others in sympathy with the core principle of Rotary International, which is ‘service above self.”

Debbie’s dive for charity

Debbie with instructor Michael Harrison

DEBBIE Stanley, from Clutton, made a sky dive to raise money for Myeloma UK, after her dad, John Ford, from Bishop Sutton, contracted cancer of the bone marrow. She has raised £2,830 so far.

Debbie, a mother of four, said: “Dad was in Spain last September when his vertebra collapsed. He was flown home and my two brothers and me picked him up from Bristol Airport and rushed him into hospital.

“After four devastating days dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The cancer had eaten holes into his vertebra causing it to collapse. From that day I promised to be there for my dad.

“When I arrived at Redlands airfield to do my sky dive, the weather was perfect and I was buzzing with excitement, not at all nervous. After climbing 10,000 feet it was our turn to jump. What an amazing feeling, freefalling is an indescribable feeling.”

Debbie with dad John Details: www.bmycharity.com/debbiesfundraisingpage

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FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

Sumptuous wedding venue

THE Best Western Plus Swan Hotel in Wells prides itself on being the perfect wedding venue, nestling in the shadow of Wells Cathedral. Whether it’s an intimate wedding, a large wedding reception or the civil wedding ceremony itself, the hotel can accommodate it.

At the front of the hotel, Swan Terrace provides a unique opportunity to capture Wells Cathedral as a stunning backdrop for wedding photographs.

The hotel also offers a luxurious honeymoon suite. The sumptuous Cathedral Suite offers unrivalled panoramic views of Wells Cathedral.

Marquees and more

QUALITY MARQUEES FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT

• High Peaked Roofs • Clear Roofs and Window Walls so ‘Conservatory Ends or Entrances’ can be created. Also Flame Towers.

A MARQUEE can be a fantastic venue for your wedding, beautifully lined, with quality furniture, star light lining and dance floors to party the night away. You can have beautiful surroundings with caterers chosen by yourselves.

JG Marquees have a full range of sizes enabling them to cater for a very small garden party to a huge lavish event and everything in between. They are now stockists of the eyecatching ‘High Peak Roofs’ and Clear Roofs to make your marque unique.

Flame torches/patio heaters can add the wow factor to the entrance and their stylish rattan sofas can be used indoor or outside. Whatever your requirements contact the specialists, JG Marquees, who have been in business for nearly 20 years and are big enough to cater for any event, but small enough to care.

Local wedding feast

• Furniture • Starlight Lining • Dance floors • Lighting • Fridge trailer hire

Call the Marquee Specialists, Tel: 01761 221366 Email enquiries: info@jgmarquees.co.uk • Website: www.jgmarquees.co.uk

Sit back, relax and enjoy your event . . .

• Peace of Mind • Flexibility • Fabulous food • High levels of service • Years of experience Call us all now on 01275 333308 or visit our website @ www.toplinecatering.co.uk

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

TOPLINE Catering love to source seasonal ingredients from local suppliers, supporting local businesses and ensuring top quality. Why not offer guests mulled local cider after your wedding ceremony and try one of their Somerset themed menus?

For example: roast loin of Somerset pork brought to tables on platters surrounded by crunchy roast potatoes, herb and onion stuffing, apple sauce and golden crackling. Appoint one guest per table to carve. You can provide novelty aprons – definitely an ice breaker!

And for dessert – large chewy meringues topped with sweetened cream and fresh fruit and served with jugs of fresh raspberry coulis at dining tables for guests to help themselves.

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Wedding venue with its own vineyard

ALDWICK Court Farm and Vineyard was only launched as a new venue in April 2013 but has already made a big impact on the wedding scene with its reputation for offering a top-rated service.

The venue offers both the 17th century Old Barn, popular for ceremonies, with the adjoining New Barn offering scope for the perfect wedding reception. The venue is sold on an exclusive use basis ensuring you and your guests have total privacy.

Owning the largest vineyard in Somerset, you have the option to drink some wonderful wines from the vineyard while taking time to have photographs amongst the vines.

If you would like to see what they have to offer, Aldwick Court Farm and Vineyard will be opening its doors to any prospective wedding couples on Sunday May 11th from 11am-3pm. View the venue, chat to their team and sample some wines.

WILL YOU NEED A PLUS ONE NEXT TIME?

A place rich in natural beauty, Aldwick Court Farm & Vineyard is the perfect wedding venue, set in the tranquil surroundings of the largest vineyard in Somerset. Come and meet the team and discuss what we can offer at our Open Day for couples on Sunday 11th May from 11am – 3pm

FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

Singles guide to weddings

IT seems to be that time of year with spring bursting upon us with brighter mornings, longer evenings, blue skies and the daffodils springing into life! It is also that time of year when many people thinking of tying the knot, plan and make preparations for a wedding.

With Caroline Crowther Introduction Agency we have come up with some ideas of what to do if you are a singleton and are invited along.

Do show up. You weren’t invited with a date but you’re on the list — which means you matter. Don’t ditch the affair because you didn’t get a plus-one. Just go.

Don’t get sloppy. You know your tolerance. Don’t be “that drunk guest”.

Do be a tourist. Stuck at a wedding alone in the middle of nowhere? Then explore the middle of nowhere. Treat a wedding weekend like a mini-vacation by visiting one tourist attraction during your stay. You should feel like you got something out of the trip, so go explore.

Don’t be cheap. Don’t split a hotel room with wedding guests you don’t know just to save money. It’s worth the extra cash to have a safe and comfortable night of sleep. No need to share a bed with a bunch of broke bridesmaids. Treat yourself.

Do look sharp. You’re dateless – but you’re not invisible. Put on some make-up. Dress like a champ. People are taking pictures that will be framed and shared on Facebook. And you never know who you might meet at your table.

Don’t hide. Don’t sit in the back row during the service. Don’t lurk in shadows away from the dance floor during the reception.

Make sure your presence is known.

Do find a project. If you find yourself uncomfortable and fidgeting at a wedding, give yourself a task. Take extra pictures for the bride. Hang with the DJ and help choose some good dance music. Use that nervous energy for good.

Do help yourself. Enjoy the food. Even if you’re at the worst wedding in the world and all by yourself, the cake is probably good. Have seconds.

Don’t forget the point. No matter how difficult it is to be at a wedding alone, remember why you’re there. It’s not about you.

You’re there to celebrate someone else’s love and to witness their momentous occasion. You’ll get your turn later.

And if nothing else happens and you don’t manage to have a cosy dance with one of the ushers, then think about contacting Caroline Crowther on 01934 744788 or look on their website.

Wedding viewings available by appointment.

Still and Sparkling wine for sale online or from the Cellar door Cellar Door sales Mon – Thurs 10.00am – 4.00pm and Friday 10.00am – 12.00pm

Call now for more information on 01934 864404 Email info@aldwickcourtfarm.co.uk • www.aldwickcourtfarm.co.uk PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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COMMUNITY

From tackling abuse . . .

A NEW campaign has been launched to help tackle domestic abuse across Avon and Somerset by the police, the Police and Crime Commissioner,

By SIMON councils and the NHS. SELBY People in the Bath and North East Somerset area might have already seen posters going up publicising the initiative which is designed to confront the myths abusers employ to try to justify their actions.

“This is not an excuse to abuse me” will be featured on bus stops, billboards, posters, online messages and radio adverts.

The messages feature some of the myths that people use to excuse abuse, and challenges those myths as entirely untrue.

The campaign features the following myths and key messages busting those myths: • “The kids are upstairs, they don’t know it’s happening” Domestic abuse affects children, whether they’re in the room or not. For help and support visit http://www.thisisnotanexcuse.org • “It wasn’t my fault, I was drunk” The only person to blame for domestic abuse is the abuser. For help and support visit: http://www.thisisnotanexcuse.org • “It’s not abuse, I never laid a finger on them” Domestic abuse isn’t always physical – it can be emotional or

financial abuse. For help and support visit: http://www.thisisnotanexcuse.org • “She was asking for it” No one ‘asks’ to be abused. The victim is never to blame.

For help and support visit: http://www.thisisnotanexcuse.org Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “Domestic abuse is taken extremely seriously across Avon and Somerset and I want victims to know they will be believed if they choose to report.

For me, a crucial step in tackling domestic abuse is to give confidence to victims to come forward and seek justice.

“This campaign encourages victims not to suffer in silence and lets them know that there are services out there that can help.

The response from the first campaign launched in Bristol evoked an emotive reaction and I wish the roll out of the campaign across Avon and Somerset every success in standing up against domestic abuse.”

Assistant Chief Constrable Louisa Rolfe from Avon and Somerset police, who is also the national police business lead for domestic abuse, said: “It is an important message to stress that there is no excuse for domestic abuse. We will look to prosecute offenders wherever possible as well as providing help and support to victims of abuse.

“This campaign is also very timely in that it coincides with the national roll out

. . . to something more relaxing WE all know the stories about students falling asleep in lessons, but Charlotta Martinus, from Camerton, is achieving some remarkable success in helping young people to relax.

Charlotta offers yoga and relaxation techniques to teens in Somerset and also trains teachers in all parts of the world to do the same. TeenYoga came about when she was asked to go into schools and teach and found it incredibly challenging. As a result she decided to create a training programme, charting a way for future teachers to work with vulnerable teens and young people as well as mainstream youth, needing instruction in resilience and other essential life skills.

What has resulted is a dynamic new way to bring peace and relaxation to an awfully large group of young people.

Amongst these the “troubled” ones have found new stress and anger management strategies resulting in some very impressed schools, parents and observing professionals.

Charlotta also runs a charity working in Sierra Leona which focuses on teaching young Sierra Leonians about yoga therapy. She is going to Sierra Leone for the first time in October to run a training course and do some research in the outcomes of the work she does.

One of the posters on display in the B&NES area

of the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), known as Clare’s Law. The scheme gives people who have concerns about their partner the opportunity to find out whether they have a history of domestic abuse. It also gives people who have concerns about a friend or relative’s partner the chance to raise this with the police who can then make the individual concerned aware.

“We hope both the campaign and the new DVDS scheme will provide another way to help tackle domestic abuse and keep our communities safe.”

G The No Excuse campaign is running online through Twitter #noexcuse and has also been supported by organisations such as SARSAS and Victim Support.

If anyone is at immediate risk of domestic violence they should call 999. To find out about the help and services available call the Domestic Abuse Freephone Service on 0800 69 49 999 or log on to www.thisisnotanexcuse.org

Meanwhile, she is looking for a new base for her yoga classes in the Radstock area. Charlotta said: “A converted barn would be perfect within a few miles of Radstock. We have a community of over 400 people who come to find solace and release on a daily or weekly basis and it feels very important to continue to be able to offer this.”

A yoga class for young people underway

To find out more, visit: www.universalyoga.co.uk

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Men are closing the gap on women

WHERE should a man settle if he wants to outlive a woman? Step forward Bewbush and Broadfield in Crawley, West Sussex where – according to figures from Public Health England – having testicles gives you an average of 13 more years of life expectancy than having ovaries.

Until recently UK men died earlier than women at just

By Dr PHIL about every age. Even the death rate amongst male babies HAMMOND is slightly higher. Men take risks, men do riskier jobs, men aren’t interested in their health, men deny symptoms, men don’t go to the doctor, men live fast and die young.

So goes the enduring stereotype and there are still plenty of us trying to die up to it.

But there are also plenty of men who do take health seriously, take sensible rather than insane risks and live long and well. Men now outlive women in 100 out of 6,800 postcodes around England as the overall gap continues to narrow. The smart money is on men and women coming together, in an actuarial sense, in 2030 when we’ll both live for an average of 87 years.

Small statistical samples are notoriously unreliable, so it’s likely that the 13year gap in Bewbush and Broadfield is a quirk. Or it could genuinely be a man-friendly community full of testicular drop-in centres and reconstructed role models who abandon alcohol and fighting in favour of hands-on parenting and hugging.

Or it could be that all the women of Bewbush die young in mysterious circumstances. Or that every corpse is dressed as a woman in some bizarre local ritual. Clearly more research is needed.

Statistics allows us to come up with theories, but they remain just that until scientific proof arrives. One theory is that it isn’t men who are getting healthier but women who are getting less healthy. To survive in a competitive, workaholic 24/7 society you need to pretend you can cope with the help of alcohol and cigarettes to mask the pain and it may be that women in the workplace are adopting the same unhealthy behaviours as men traditionally do.

Add in the unfair burden of parenting, housekeeping and caring for elderly relatives that still weighs heavier on women than men and it’s easy to see why women’s health is suffering.

So instead of feeling smug that you’ve controlled your carbs, mastered the 5:2 diet and extended dry January into March, have a look around you. Is someone you love struggling to cope? Have you cleaned the toilet in 30 years?

Or removed the clot of hair and grease that’s plugging up the shower drain?

Or learned how to put a wash on without turning everything grey? Or thought about what’s for dinner every bloody night?

Men are living longer and women are wearing out fast. Try to do your fair share of the load, or you may be going it alone. Alternatively, retire to Hinton St George in Somerset where men and women both live for 90 years on average. What is their secret?

Dr Phil’s comedy tour comes to Frome Memorial Theatre on May 30th.

Details: 01373 462795.

PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Washday Monday

IN times gone by the rhythm of a housewife’s week was reflected in the rhyme: “Wash on Monday, Iron on Tuesday, Mend on Wednesday, Churn on Thursday, Clean on Friday, Bake on Saturday and Rest on Sunday.”

As Monday is my day off work I often find myself trying, in vain, to catch up with the washing and the cleaning (after resting on a Sunday). As for the other chores on the list, the less said about them the better.

When my youngest son was a baby and the girls were much younger I felt dismayed by the mountains of washing that overtook the house. There were ever-growing piles of laundry at one stage of the washing cycle or another.

The girls, in particular, went through a phase of wearing several outfits in one day, just because they liked dressing up in various items and their visiting friends were particularly fond of trying on half a wardrobe of clothes too.

Now Mendip Dad has some good skills in the washing department but these do not extend to sorting the washing before putting it into the machine. Consequently, some dark brown jeans made their way into a wash with white shirts and pants. The pants are now stained brown which causes all sorts of dilemmas in the morning as we entertain the day’s activities and excursions.

So, for example, I find myself anxiously contemplating a motorway journey and what might happen if I encounter a paramedic, as I stand before my pants drawer in the morning.

Mendip Dad was a bit sensitive when I pointed out his mistake and has recently left the washing to me.

My grandmother was born in 1899, the second of nine children. I remember as a child, standing next to her at her sink, as she washed by hand with a washboard and then turned the clothes through a mangle to squeeze out the water. I remember too the excitement I felt turning the handle of this ancient contraption.

When I was older I asked her what she thought was the best invention of the 20th century. She didn’t hesitate before naming the washing machine.

The point of the story is that despite having nine children and 11 piles of washing, I am sure my great-grandmother (washingmachine and tumble-dryer-less) didn’t complain as much as I do about the laundry.

My great-grandmother didn’t have a Mendip Dad to help with the washing either.

MENDIP MUM

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Aligned for a healthy life

Kate Wiltshire (left) with Ben and some of the other members of the team in the new reception area at Wells Chiropractic and Osteopathy Centre

AN increase in the number of treatments available at Wells Chiropractic and Osteopathy Centre has led to some physical changes – and not just in the wellbeing of its growing list of clients.

Owner Ben Palmer has taken the decision to add further treatment rooms and redesign the reception area. The centre, above Boots Pharmacy on the Priory Health Park in Wells, now offers sports massage, having taken on Kate Wiltshire as a clinical assistant, and the growing popularity of its pioneering deep tissue laser therapy has led to that having a dedicated room of its own.

Ben has also overseen an overhaul of the centre’s website which now has a new name: www.wellshealth.co.uk

HEALTH & FAMILY

Beauty spa expands

ANGEL-OH! Massage, Beauty and Holistic Maternity Therapy Specialist is proud to be expanding at Rookery Farm, Binegar.

The boutique spa is beautifully decorated and boasts three large vintage inspired treatment rooms (one with large wood burning fire),showers, LDN:SKINS sunless tanning room, sauna and welcoming reception.

With the latest in product innovation and the newest holistic therapies, at Angel-Oh! you can be certain that your relaxation is guaranteed. Go and see them!

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

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

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 73

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HISTORY

Zulu war veteran remembered

THE success of a book about his grandfather’s memories of World War One has resulted in author and illustrator Geoff Dickson going further back in time for his latest project.

Geoff, from Wells, was commissioned by the publisher of Grandad’s Great War Diary to provide an illustration for the cover of a new

Private Henry Martin’s gravestone in Binegar churchyard

book about the Zulu War and the famous Defence of Rorke’s Drift.

The book, by historian James Bancroft, includes a biography of Private Henry Martin, who was born in West Lydford and died in Gurney Slade in 1937 aged 79. Henry took part in the famous battle on January 22nd and 23rd 1879 when a small garrison of British soldiers successfully defended an isolated stores and hospital in South Africa against a large army of ferocious Zulu warriors.

After leaving the army, Henry worked in a slate quarry at Gurney Slade, eventually becoming a foreman. He was active in establishing the Ashwick and Binegar branch of the Royal British Legion Club, which opened in December 1930. When the Duke and Duchess of York visited Wells in May 1933, to inspect the annual parade of the British Legion, Henry was introduced to them. A picture of him hung in the branch headquarters room at the George Inn. Henry was buried in an unmarked grave in the churchyard at Holy Trinity Church in Binegar. In 1965, a memorial portrait was unveiled by his nephew, Jack, at Binegar Memorial Hall and a permanent stone cross was erected at his grave. Among those present at the ceremony were Clara, his niece, and Letitia Bunting, a daughter of Private

Geoff’s original artwork for cover of the Zulu War book

Geoff Dickson

Henry Hook, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for his action at Rorke’s Drift.

Geoff said: “James saw a couple of line drawings I did for grandad’s book, and that was it. I have produced a full colour artwork that will be used as the cover for his new book.”

Meanwhile, Geoff has produced a series of paintings based on well-known photographs of WWI which will go on show later this year at the Wells and Mendip Museum as part of their plans to commemorate the outbreak of WWI. He is also involved with the design and construction of a WW1 trench that will feature in “Wells Remembers”.

One of Geoff’s WWI paintings which will go on show later this year

Defenders of Rorke’s Drift: A Collection of Tributes – is published on April 5th and will be available in local bookshops or by visiting: www.bancroftpublishing.com

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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Classic car run

THE Brimar Vintage and Classic Car Run and Display in aid of the Children’s Hospice South West will be held on April 27th, starting at 10am from Cadbury Garden and Leisure Centre, Congresbury.

At 12noon Alex Lovell, from BBC Point’s West, will start all the cars for a scenic car run to the moat field in Wells, arriving there approx 12.30 – 1 pm and the cars will be on display until 4 pm.

The event is open to anyone with a pre-1980 car, light van, motor bike or scooter and with 100 cars already booked, the oldest car entered so far is a 1912 Renault.

Last year’s event raised £5,995 for the hospice. Details: www.brimarfundraising.co.uk

Car rally to help abbey appeal

A VINTAGE and classic car rally is to be held at Downside Abbey at Stratton-on-the-Fosse in May to raise funds towards a £4m restoration appeal.

The Concours d’Elegance, on Sunday, May 4th is open to all vehicles up to 1984. There will also be an Abbot’s Choice class for any other interesting or unusual vehicle.

For information and entry forms, visit: www.downside.co.uk

UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES MG ROVER & LAND ROVER SPECIALIST

MOTORING

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

Bailey approved body shop and workshop

G Caravan Servicing G Annual Habitation Checks G Alu-Tech Bailey Approved Repairers G Warranty Maintained G Damp Repairs G Accident Repairs G Insurance Repairs G Accessory Fitting

Our shop stocks a full range of accessories and equipment

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

MOT TESTING STATION COMPETITIVE PRICES ON TYRES, BATTERIES AND EXHAUSTS

ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE

Open Monday - Friday 9am–5pm; Saturday 9am–1pm

BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY SERVICE

QUALITY USED CARS Your peace of mind is our priority

CLEEVE HILL, UBLEY BS40 6PG Telephone: 01761 462275 (24hrs) www.ubleymotors.co.uk

Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 75

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MENDIP TIMES

RH

Windows

THE CHEW VALLEY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED WINDOW COMPANY WITH A REPUTATION BUILT ON QUALITY AND SERVICE FOR CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS AND DOORS IN HARDWOOD OR UPVC

HARDWOOD JOINERY SPECIALISTS

Telephone: 01761 452171 Fax: 01761 453342 www.rhwindowsltd.co.uk

PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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HOMES & INTERIORS

A host of heating solutions

WITH the ever increasing tension and pressures in the Ukraine and the risk of Russian President Putin turning off the oil lines, the price of crude oil will rise and with 50 per cent of Russia’s wealth generated from oil, it’s easy to see why inflated prices benefit Russia, especially with 25% of Europe’s gas coming from Russia and half of it through the Ukraine.

You may think – how will this affect me? Well the price of crude oil has a direct correlation to the price of our electricity and gas. Prices in futures trading rose by 10% in one day alone recently and it won’t be long before this hits our pockets.

There is a choice though, and it’s not to be dependent on oil and gas and be at the mercy of the big producers, who put the bills up without us having choice.

At Natures Flame they can offer whole house heating solutions including wood burners, solar thermal, and thermal store systems, which can take you off mains supplies and allow you to live “the good life” like Tom and Barbara. It can complement an existing system too so there’s no need to ditch the existing boiler to go green.

Wood burners are an incredible way to heat your home, as well as providing a lovely ambience.

They are also are set to launch their Broseley Evolution 26 heating biomass boiler, which, unlike most systems, runs from wood alone, not pellets, and will qualify for the householder renewable heat incentive payments.

At present there’s a £2,000 premium payment and likely to be in the region of 12.9 pence per kw paid to you for using a green technology. This can be as much as £17,000-£22,000 to you over seven years, once the householder scheme is rolled out.

Natures Flame claim to offer the cheapest wood burners and stoves in the UK via their online site, www.wantastove.co.uk , where you can experience showroom experience and expertise at the best prices in the UK. They also supply oil and gas systems, using the most efficient boilers to lower the impact of any increases in fuel prices, and these can be incorporated into thermal stores and wood burners, so you get the best of all worlds.

Call them for a discussion or pop along to their showroom to see a working Broseley Evolution 26, providing all their office heating to 12 radiators and hot water with no oil or gas connected.

More than just woodburners at Natures Flame, specialists in bio-mass, oil, gas and solid fuel/wood.

Plus the cheapest stove sales in the UK at our online sales shop: www.wantastove.co.uk

www.naturesflame.co.uk

Please see below a selection of our special offers:

GAS BOILER

Ideal Independent C24 Combination Boiler

To supply and fit an Ideal Independent 24kw combination boiler with a standard flue. This boiler has an inbuilt mechanical clock, 2 year warranty. Includes: Filling loop • scale inhibitor • Magna clean and Sentinel x 100 • test and fill system.

Other boilers also available Yearly gas service – £65.00 + VAT

All for the sum of £1195.00 incl. VAT* * Subject to site survey

WOODBURNER

Burley Debdale 4Kw DEFRA-approved Stove

To supply and fit the Burley Debdale Stove. Install a new stainless steel 316 flexible flue liner – 10m allowed. Includes register plate, vitreous enamel pip, pot hanger and top hat adapter.

To supply and fit a stove* To supply and install a new carbon monoxide detector** The above is based on no obstruction within chimney and survey of access to roof*** To supply HETAS certification

All for the sum of £1599.00 incl. VAT*

* Subject to site survey. Other stoves can be substituted to offer ** To preformed correctly sized builders opening and hearth *** Scaffolds or towers will incur an extra cost

Unit A, Braysdown Works, Braysdown, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LL

Opening Hours 8am – 5.30 pm Monday to Friday • Evenings by appointment

Give us a call on 01761 439408

www.wantastove.co.uk

OIL BOILER

Worcester Greenstar Heatslave 18.25Kw Combination Boiler

To supply and fit a Worcester Greenstar Heatslave 18.25Kw combination boiler with a standard flue. Comes with a 5-year warranty. Includes: Magna clean, time clock, mini-scale reducer, Sentinel x 100, test and fill system.

Other boilers available Yearly oil service – £80.00 + VAT

All for the sum of £3495.00 incl. VAT* * Subject to site survey

With over 15 Manufacturers and a commitment to be the cheapest stove supplier in the UK, visit us online or come and see the stoves at the showroom near Radstock, Bath – supply as well as supply and fit.

Email us: info@naturesflame.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 77

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MENDIP TIMES

Mendip Times reduces travel costs 100,000 potential customers just a few miles from your business

Polished worktops and floors External exposed aggregate Restore old exis ng concrete

Call Tim Baylis for a quote on 07768 881007 or email: tbaylis@mac.com www.concrete-concepts.co.uk

Tony Hucker TV SALES • SERVICE • RENTAL Panasonic

PLASMA & LCD TV

WHY GO TO TOWN WHEN WE ARE AT Unit 4, Fairseat Workshops, Chew Stoke BS40 8XF

Tel: 01275 332888 Open: Mon–Fri 9am–6pm & Sat 8.30am–12 noon

A concrete proposition

A DECISION to rebuild his house virtually single-handedly has led to the start of a new business for music video producer Tim Baylis.

Apart from learning a lot of new skills on-the-job, Tim began to experiment with the idea of making a virtue of concrete, creating everything from highly-polished floors to colourstained worktops and surfaces. The result is a surprisingly warm-looking yet comfortable – and very eco-friendly home – a short distance from Wincanton Racecourse.

Now Tim has set up Concrete Concepts to attract more people to the beauty of concrete, especially bespoke worktops. Tim said: “I enjoy making them more as it is a more creative handson process. The other thing that I have been doing is restoring old existing concrete then polishing and staining it.”

Tim would welcome enquiries from anyone considering using concrete as he is keen to expand his portfolio and taken on new challenges.

Tim in the kitchen of his Wincanton home PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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How to cut fuel costs in half

ECO Angus Ltd supplies wood-burning boilers that can provide all your central heating and domestic hot water requirements at approximately half the price of fossil fuels. Their wood gasification log boilers and wood pellet boiler have full MCS accreditation so will be eligible for grants under the forthcoming domestic renewable heat incentive to commence this spring.

For example this will typically pay a grant of approximately £3,000 per year for a 40kW log boiler over a seven-year period and this grant would outweigh the installed value of the product even without the potential fuel savings. The typical pay-back period with grant availability is around three to five years.

These boilers are ideal for retrofits or new builds. They are ideally sited in an outbuilding, a garage, a boiler room or utility.

They can be installed on open vented or pressurised systems. They can link to your existing heating system and it’s possible to keep your existing heat source such as an oil boiler or gas boiler.

The boiler requires an accumulator tank which is typically 50:1 ratio thermal store to kW output. The wood consumption is 10 tonnes for 25KW output. The boilers are 92% efficient and CO2 neutral. They are loaded twice a day from autumn through to spring and every five days in the summer when domestic hot water only is required.

It is imperative that to be eligible for the grant under the RHI you have a fully accredited MCS product installed by an MCS installer. Eco Angus have seven outputs from 18kW up to 130KW and two boiler ranges, the Angus Super and the Angus Orligno 200. These can cover properties from 100m2 up to 1200m2.

HOMES & INTERIORS

LOOKING FOR THE COMPLETE SERVICE?

IAN HOBBS TECHNICAL SERVICES HAVE THE SOLUTION!

TECHNICAL SERVICES LIMITED

N Air Conditioning N Refrigeration N Ventilation N Plumbing N Heating N Renewables N Electrical Call Ian Hobbs Technical Services Ltd. on 01761 414356 or info@ianhobbs.com

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 79

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MENDIP TIMES

HOMES & INTERIORS SA

LE

ek we ng ne nci 014 ro e 2 Fo omm 12th c il r Ap

HANDMADE ARTISAN RUGS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

At Oriental Rugs of Bath we have a beautiful selection of rugs, furnishings, clothing, bags and accessories.We have a large showroom with free onsite parking

Please contact us on: 01761 451 764 or visit: www.orientalrugsofbath.com

Bookbarn International, Wells Road, Hallatrow, Bristol, BS39 6EX

RUGS CLEANED RUGS RESTORED RUGS VALUED

April Event: April 12 2014 @ 1pm

Come and listen to a talk given by an ex-soldier who moved to live in Afghanistan with his family for a few years, followed by a talk from an Afghan supplier. See our website or call for details.

Watch this space for next month’s Event!

Telephone: 01761 417654 Facsimile: 01761 417207 email: office@techniglaze.co.uk www.techniglaze.co.uk

FAMILY BUSINESS BASED IN THE CHEW VALLEY FOR OVER 100 YEARS

Units 1–6, Fourth Avenue Westfield Industrial Estate Midsomer Norton Radstock BA3 4XE

Offering the complete service for 30 years

ALUMINIUM DOORS, WINDOWS, CURTAIN WALL, ATRIUMS PVCU WINDOWS, DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES

BI-FOLDING DOORS • SUN ROOMS • HERITAGE PRODUCTS

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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JACKSONS

Jacksons Fencing – news, topical treats and more . . .

A very Happy Easter to you all!

WAY back in dreary weather blighted Jan and Feb, Easter seemed a distant glimmer of hope for better brighter spring days, and now, thankfully it’s just around the corner.

It is very late this year though, Good Friday was 29th March last year, now we are looking 18th April – it always puzzled me as I was growing up, how one year we could be basking in early spring sunshine having the first (and possibly only!) barbecue of the season and the next year we could be sitting resolutely looking out the window at a winter wonderland – I guess the only good thing about snow in April is it’s pretty shortlived and has melted before we’ve got the sledge out.

Someone kindly explained to me a while later that church holidays like Easter are moveable feasts, and can fall on different dates each year as they are based on lunar timings.

The date of Easter is the first Sunday after the full moon following the March equinox. That is about as much as I can take in as there’re a lot of other conditions affecting it, so I prefer to keep it simple and focus on the glorious March equinox – the day the clocks go forward and we are into British Summer Time

The new planters range from Jacksons, beautifully built to last and guaranteed for 25 years

again! I’m afraid I must’ve missed some vital info as I was growing up, as I only just realised they called it equinox because the day and night are of equal length.

Anyway, as we are anticipating Easter and the Equinox has passed, it seems fair to mention that this is normally the time of year that people venture out into their gardens to start tidying up or repairing things after the ravages of winter, and after the one we’ve just had, there may be more than just sweeping up to tackle. You may be one of the unfortunates who had a fence come down. In my February page we covered a lot of useful hints and tips, about what to do to avoid this happening to you and how to choose the right fence.

The link to all that helpful stuff is still on your local page if you missed it before:www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/bathlocal

J

The Fence Builder Calculator web page can help you work out how many panels and posts you will need and also calculate the cost

W

There is also a link on there to take you to the Fence Calculator Tool on our web site. This can help you work out how many panels you need and the cost including posts, ballast and even screws!

It has a choice of 22 of our most popular panels including trellis.

It really is so easy to use, even I can do it. However if you still are daunted, it is worth bearing in mind that we have very friendly ‘humans’ on the end of the phone, who are fencing experts and who can help work everything out for you. (freefone 0800 4084754 will connect you to your local Jacksons branch).

Just a quick word about our new planters, we are launching them this month and I think they look great. Not only are they strong and beautifully made; they are built to last with our 25year guarantee. Prices and sizes can be found on the local page too.

I N J A C K S O N S A K WA L L W O R T H £

250

Enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win £250 worth of Jakwall. Simply log on to your local page, address below and follow the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 30.4.14. To enter go to: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal

louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 81

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MENDIP TIMES

Albino Builders Ltd. Award winning Builders Three Winds, Downside, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4JN Tel: (01749) 344965 www.albinobuilders.co.uk Email: enquiries@albinobuilders.co.uk

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDING RENOVATIONS HOME IMPROVEMENTS PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ELECTRICAL

Best private sector housing contractor, Mendip Building Excellence Awards

PLUMBING and HEATING ROOFING JOINERY WORKSHOP

539345

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

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A winning formula

Adrian (left) and Michael with their awards

ALBINO Builders, based in Shepton Mallet, are celebrating success in the 2014 Mendip District Council Building Excellence Awards.

Having received Highly Commended awards in the Best Private Sector Housing Contractor category in both 2012 and 2013, the family-run business was named the winner this time round.

As well as offering a wide range of building services for the private sector, Albino Builders works with organisations such as Somerset Care and Repair to provide adaptations and improvement works.

Director Michael Guidi said: “We have not lost sight of our core strengths from small to large works. We concentrate on providing a high quality of workmanship as well as customer service.”

HOMES & INTERIORS

Why our heating systems cost less to run (compared with ordinary installations) . . .

Our Smart heating controls can save up to 40% from the heating bill – and the option of a smartphone app (iOS and Android) can allow temperature control over the whole heating system, or individual rooms from a smartphone even when away from home (useful for the holiday home too).

Radiator technology has improved and if you’ve got a condensing boiler already, by renewing old radiators with our Ecoradiators heating bills can be reduced by up to 10.5% with no loss of heating comfort for you.

Tie that into our unique boiler service which checks the liquid inhibitor is still protecting your boiler (oil, or gas) and you’ve got long-term care and cost savings for your boiler and central heating system that you will find nowhere else.

Call us today to enjoy the future Telephone: 01934 832250 4, Bridge Farm Square, Congresbury, Bristol BS49 5DF e-Mail: info@standenandsons.co.uk website: www.standenandsons.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 83

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Lions host academy concert

Flood aid

THE Redhillbillies, based in North Somerset, have helped to raise over £4,000 for the Somerset Levels Flood Appeal.

The six-piece band played two charity events, at Wrington in February and Redhill Village Hall in March. Both events were a great success with auctions, raffles, food and a bar.

The band, which has previously played at Glastonbury, have always got involved in raising money for good causes and look set for another busy year.

Details: www.redhillbillies.com PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

CHEDDAR Vale Lions Club hosted a concert at Churchill Academy with Lions Brass 4 Youth Band and Youthful Spirit, the Churchill Academy Gospel Choir.

It was a wonderful evening of music ranging from Gospel and African to traditional brass including a version of Skyfall.

All the ticket money raised will be shared between the groups and used for music, tuition and instruments with the Lions hoping their success will continue well into the future for all to appreciate.

BBC Folk Award winners at Priddy Folk Festival THREE winners of the annual BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards are to appear at Priddy Folk Festival, now in its 23rd year. They are Bella Hardy, winner of best singer, Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin, winner of best duo, and Aidan O’Rourke, winner of best musician, who will be playing in the band Kan. Other headline acts include Flook, The New Rope String Band, Baraka, Ushti Baba and The Young ‘Uns. Special concerts include Yvette Staelens, who tells the story of Cecil Sharp’s folksong collecting adventures through songs, family stories, and amazing historical photographs; and a church concert with Three Cane

Whale.

Rachael Clarke, Manager of the Festival Programming team, said: “One of the best things about Priddy Folk Festival is the blurring of the line between the audience and the performers. People pitch up all over the village – in the pubs, on the green, and in the camping fields – with impromptu performances.

“People can join a ceilidh at the dance festival, or come and sing with an amazing trio like The Young ‘Uns at a workshop, or learn to play an instrument like the bodrhan or ukulele with skilled teachers.”

The festival starts on Friday July 11th and runs through until 5pm on Sunday July 13th. Details: www.priddyfolk.org. Children under 11 go free.

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Wookey Hole Club celebrates 130 years ON April 1st 130 years ago Wookey Hole Club opened its doors for the first time. Today the club continues to be a thriving village social meeting place offering a wide range of activities, facilities and events.

In 1875 a request was made to the owner of the nearby paper mill, Mr. W.S. Hodgkinson, to help residents get a club in the village. It took more nine years before the club was built, where before two thatched cottages stood.

Until a time just after the 2nd world war only men of the village were allowed as members. For them entertainment was provided by a billiard table and other pub games. After the war the women’s institute and many other village organisations started to use it.

The Hodgkinson family continued to play an important role in the survival of The old Post Office

the club, often helping financially. In his will Guy Hodgkinson in the mid1950s left the club premises to his trustees on the condition that they permit the committee of the Wookey Hole Club to continue to use the building for the benefit of the village.

Today the Club continues to be a

Off to see the wizard

Details: www.wookeyholeclub.co.uk

SPELLBOUND – the youth section of the Frome Musical Theatre Company – will be celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with a special production of The Wizard of Oz. The group is holding two workshops in April from which it hopes to recruit 50 young performers to take part in the production in August. The ever-popular Wizard of Oz film is celebrating its 75th anniversary and this year’s Frome Festival is hoping to break the world record for the most people dressed as characters from the film on Sunday, July 13th.

The workshops will take place in the Assembly Rooms, behind the Memorial Theatre in Frome, on Tuesday, April 8th and Tuesday, April 15th from 9.30am-4.30pm. Any young person aged 7-16 can attend the sessions where they will learn songs, dances and enjoy acting and performing with other young hopefuls.

MUSIC

popular venue. Regular events include the annual music weekend festival in September, theme nights and parties.

The anniversary celebrations will take place over the Easter weekend with bands including Rock the Night and the Mangled Wurzels, a duck race and a whole host of other arttractions.

First World War Homecoming

Spellbounds’s creative team: (l:r) Emma Hill (director/choreographer), Kerry Bishop (musical director) and Dora Bishop (vocal coach)

Spellbound will perform the Wizard of Oz from August 7th-9th. For details, visit: www.fromemtc.co.uk

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MUSIC

Guitar virtuosos visit Frome

FOR a week in March the renowned Eden Stell Guitar Duo, Mark Eden and Chris Stell, visited 14 schools in the Frome area as part of the Year of Guitar project run by Jackdaws Music Education Trust, based in Great Elm, near Mells.

They spent an hour and a half in each school, performing an interactive concert to the whole school and then leading a rehearsal with instrumental players participating on guitars, violins, cellos, drums and other percussion, xylophones, flutes and recorders.

They rehearsed a range of pieces which the schools will perform en-masse alongside Eden Stell in a huge community concert in the Cheese and Grain on June 6th at 5.30pm. Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading guitar ensembles, the duo celebrate their 25th anniversary this year.

The Year of Guitar project follows Jackdaws’ wonderfully successful Year of the String Quartet which saw the Carducci String Quartet visit 14 schools in Frome before leading a massed performance of 140 children on violins, violas, cellos and percussion. Next year Details: www.jackdaws.org.uk/guitar

Young farmers on song

NORTH Somerset young farmers’ club has made it through to the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs Choir Competition, to be held in Blackpool in May. The Choir won the Somerset round and came second at the South West Area Round.

Society sings in Keynsham

CHEW Valley Choral Society will sing Brahms’ German Requiem with piano duo and soloists at St John’s Church, Keynsham on Saturday April 12th.

For use when an orchestra was not available, Brahms wrote the piano duet accompaniment in 1866. It is for four hands on one piano, and will be performed at Keynsham by Brenda McDermott and Jacquelyn Bevan.

The soprano soloist will be Julia O’Connor and singing the baritone role will be Wells Cathedral Vicar Choral singer Christopher Sheldrake. Chew Valley Choral Society will be conducted by David Bednall.

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Eden Stell at Frome College

will be the Year of Percussion.

Jackdaws Music Education Trust has been operating for more than 20 years.

Year of Guitar has been made possible with the help of funding from Arts Council England and Sound Foundation Somerset.

Bach’s St John Passion

THE Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society, under their director Matthew Owens, are performing Bach’s St John Passion in the cathedral on Saturday, March 29th.

The St John Passion has been described as more extravagant than the St Matthew Passion, with an expressive immediacy and a more unbridled and less “finished” patina than the more meditative St Matthew.

Over the years it has been given the role of “poor relation” compared to the later Passion, yet the growing appreciation of the St John is a testament to both performers and audiences and to their conviction that the work appeals with great directness to our human emotions and sympathies.

Composed for Good Friday vespers in 1724 Bach’s masterpiece perfectly balances the theatrical with the devotional.

The choir will be joined by the soloists Rogers CoveyCrump, tenor, as the Evangelist, Ali Darragh, soprano, Simon Clulow, countertenor, Mark Hounsell, tenor, Christopher Sheldrake, bass as Jesus and Dominic Bowe, baritone singing the role of Pilate. The Music for Awhile Orchestra will be playing on period instruments led by their leader Maggie Faultless.

Tickets are available, prices from £10 – £25 from Wells Cathedral Shop Box Office: 01749 7277301749 672773.

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SPORT

Purnells top successful year by representing county

Development grant for girls’ rugby

THESE are the players from Purnell Sports Netball Club who have represented Somerset at a regional tournament.

The club, based at Paulton, has enjoyed a very successful season at both junior and senior level. Emma Burton, one of the coaches, said: “Purnell Sports are celebrating a very successful few weeks as both the junior squads and senior side are performing above and beyond all expectations.”

Harvey Siggs presents a cheque for £1,000 to the Wells Angels, coaches and club officials

Raceday success for farming charity

A RACE day at Wincanton Racecourse in March was just the ticket when race-goers turned out in force to support the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution.

Supporters of the charity – at the forefront in helping farmers affected by the flooding on the Somerset Levels – enjoyed lunch overlooking the track as well as receiving expert betting advice from jockey Brendon Powell. A sporting raffle and auction helped to raise £2,531, thanks to £1,000 of match funding from Barclays Bank’s agriculture division. Barclays generously donated two premiership football tickets to get the ball rolling.

Mike Neville, from Barclays, said: “R.A.B.I. provides invaluable support to people in the farming industry who are in financial difficulty or face a crisis such as illness in the family. It pays out more than £100,000 a year in Somerset alone and we are delighted to support the charity’s work by hosting this event.”

The event was organised by Pam Wills, regional manager of R.A.B.I., which in 2013 supported around 50 farming families in Somerset. Pam said: “This is the third year we have hosted an event at Wincanton, and year-on-year it raises an increasing amount of money. With the recent floods affecting many farmers locally, it is heartening to know that there is support to help them through difficult times.”

To contact R.A.B.I. for confidential help call freephone 0300 303 7373 (mobile costs vary) and for more general information about its work visit: www.rabi.org.uk

GIRLS’ rugby in Wells has received a £1,000 boost from Somerset County Council to encourage more youngsters to take up the sport.

Local councillors John Osman and Harvey Siggs awarded the grant from the council’s Health and Wellbeing Fund which is available to encourage healthy lifestyles.

Harvey said: “We made the grant to enable the development of girls’ rugby both in Wells and the surrounding area.”

Wells RFC’s under-15s side Sophie Peters has been picked Wells Angels lost their latest for the South West divisional game by just a single point when squad they faced North Dorset.

G Wells under-15s player Sophie Peters has become the first “Angel” to be selected to play for the South West divisional squad. She joins Esme Bird and Rebecca Hammond, both from Yatton RFC, who have also been called up for the first time. All three are from the Somerset squad.

Wells Angels in action against North Dorset MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014 • PAGE 87

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MENDIP TIMES

Running for a worthy cause

(l:r): Organiser Christopher Bond, Julie Patterson, Michael Eavis, co-organisers Christine King and Julia Dukes and race marshal Mike Mayhew

THE Glastonbury Festival site will once again host a charity cross country run after the success of the first event of its kind last year.

Organisers have announced that this year’s event will include a 10-kilometre run after feedback from competitors.

Almost 250 people of all ages took part in the five and two kilometre races around Worthy Farm at Pilton, which took in the sights of the iconic pyramid stage, stone circle and pirate ship.

The number of places available for this year’s race – on Sunday, October 12th – has been increased to 450. Entries open on Friday, April 11th.

Last year’s Festival Run raised £1,500 for Children’s Hospice South West, which will again benefit from the event.

Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis said: “I enjoyed seeing so many people enjoy themselves at the 2013 Festival Run. It was a good day, and I am glad to support the 2014 Run.” Julie Patterson of CHSW, said: “We rely on the generosity of volunteers and supporters to continue to deliver our very special care to children and their families who live in the local area. Being involved in The Festival Run has been an absolute pleasure; we are so grateful to the organisers and to everyone who took part and helped to raise this fantastic sum. We are delighted to have been nominated as The Festival Run charity for 2014.”

Run organiser Christopher Bond said: “Buoyed up by this success, we want to make the event bigger and better – the new 10km run should meet the requests of many runners last year who wanted more of the beautiful and atmospheric festival site.”

Bath prepares for new season

A NUMBER of improvements to the facilities at Bath Racecourse are being carried out ahead of the 2014 season. The first project is to demolish the old grandstand which was closed last year. This work is already underway.

The improvements, which will be completed before the first meeting of the year on Saturday April 19th, include new and upgraded marquees for both racegoers and hospitality clients, the refurbishment of the public bars, improvements to the Owners and Trainers bar and the provision of banked seating to view the racing.

These works are in addition to a complete refurbishment of the Weighing Room which will also be completed before racing commences.

A number of options for further investment are being considered by owners, Arena Racing Company. Phil Bell, ARC’s executive director for the South West said: “We are committed to the future of Bath Racecourse which has exciting long-term potential.

“We recognise its importance to both the local and racing communities. The investment for the 2014 season will improve the facilities for all owners, trainers, jockeys, racegoers and hospitality customers.”

Come on Silviniaco!

EMOTIONS run high amongst some of trainer Paul Nicholls’s team at Ditcheat during the Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival.

Shouts and screams ring out in the skittle alley of the village’s Manor House Inn as they watch the drama unfold on a giant television screen. Sadly, their hero Silviniaco Conti cannot keep pace with eventual winner Lord Windermere and eventually finishes fourth.

Winter’s over!

The teams on the final day of the Turnpike Trophy A scene from last year’s run

Full details about the event are on wwww.piltonvillage.co.uk Entry charges will be £12 (10km), £8 (5km) and £3 (2km).

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ORCHARDLEIGH Golf Club’s Winter Mixed (Turnpike Trophy) tournament came to an end in March.

After some very soggy conditions, the final match was played in sunshine. Karen and Steve Burns won for the second consecutive year. Runners-up were Sara Tunstall and Ian Longhurst with third place going to Jan Light and Steve Regler.

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SPORT

3G pitch gets the green light

By Mark Adler

FROME Town Football Club is to look into the introduction of a 3G surface at the AlderSmith Stadium to replace the current natural grass pitch.

Discussions with key stakeholders have already begun and will continue to take place over the coming weeks as the club looks to put a timetable in place. Work has already started to obtain quotes for the development.

A 3G artificial surface will allow the club to open the stadium to other adult and youth teams. However, current Football Association rules on 3G pitches mean Frome Town will not be allowed to gain promotion from their current Calor League Premier Division status.

Club chairman Jeremy Alderman said: “It has been well known for the last few years that the town has needed a 3G pitch in order to be able for both children and adults to be able to train and play football. As a Community Club we have decided, after talks with the Football Association and the Somerset FA, that the best option for the town as a whole would be for that 3G pitch to be installed at the stadium.”

Manager Adrian Foster has backed the club’s decision. He said: “Although I am a traditionalist I can see why the club want to go down this route and I have spoken to the chairman who has explained the board’s thoughts on it. Obviously it will benefit the style of play we have tried to bring to the club as it will give us a perfect surface and will also allow us as a club to develop our community work which is something I am keen to help be a part of.”

Club secretary Ian Pearce said he was confident that the promotion bar wouldn’t hold the Robins back for long. He said: “Over the last couple of months there has been a significant change towards the attitude on 3G pitches and just a day after we made our own decision the FA also announced its backing for the surfaces and it appears will now be changing its rules to allow them to be used in all FA competitions which is a big change.”

A 3G surface will help Frome’s style of play, says manager Adrian Foster

Community Development Officer Gary Collinson added: “It’s just what the town needs and to dispel any myths or rumours before they start a key message is that this will be open to use by all clubs and not just Frome Town – we have so many of our own youth teams playing out of town because of a lack of facilities but this will mean that we will be able to provide far more for the community now on so many levels. It also shows that the Club really does embrace its community philosophy by putting the town first ahead of its own ambitions of further promotions. However, it doesn’t mean the ambition isn’t still there within the Club and we believe this is a way of helping us get to where we want to be.”

G Frome Town will be running its first ever soccer school at the stadium at Easter for children aged five to 15 led and organised

by Adrian Foster along with first team squad players. A separate goalkeeping school may also be held, subject to demand. The school takes place on Tuesday, April 8th, Wednesday, April 9th and Thursday, April 10th at the AlderSmith Stadium.

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

Gym club reaches new heights

MEMBERS of Shepton Mallet Gymnastics Club have been celebrating success recently in a series of competitions as well as call-ups to the South West Tumbling Squad for the first time.

In the Withy King Cup, held in Bath, six-year-old gymnast David Knowles was crowned champion in the under-7s. His team mate, Ben Cowell, won silver in the overall category. Oscar Salter took home a bronze in vault with his brother, Uther, taking silver in the senior age group. There was another champion at the club, Toby Ross, who won gold on all apparatus.

Ben Hook was part of the four-strong Somerset team which won Team Bronze in an inter-counties competition. Ben Cowell competed for his first time at regional level and won silver in vault and floor and was overall silver champion in the South West.

Meanwhile, Toby Ross and Uther Salter have both been chosen for the South West Tumbling Squad.

The Shepton squad which competed in the Withy King Cup

The club trains principally at Whitstone School in Shepton Mallet. For information on the club and Easter gymnastics sessions, visit: www.sheptonmalletgymnasticsclub.co.uk or follow the club on Facebook.

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MENDIP TIMES

How horses can help humans

I HAVE lived and worked around horses for most of my life and have always known and understood that they are creatures of amazing insight, intelligence and character but a recent session with Victoria Lance who is a psychologically trained coach and qualified riding instructor quite literally blew me away.

With CELIA After an exceptional 12 year career in the GADD RAF Victoria left when she was first diagnosed with cancer. She realised at that time that she needed to make some significant life changes and successfully beat the disease after a course of treatment.

Victoria, from Puxton, near Weston-Super-Mare, holds an ICF accredited Advanced Diploma in Executive coaching, as well as a BAC accredited Certificate in Counselling skills, and is a BHSAI riding instructor and an NLP Business Practitioner.

Her previous success coaching has taken her around the globe and she has worked for many blue chip corporate organisations facilitating transformational leadership programmes with executives and board members from a diverse range of organisations and industries. She has helped numerous clients including the CEO of an international food manufacturer through the internal communication of a competitive buy-out and many other scenarios.

Devastatingly, two years ago, Victoria was yet again diagnosed with cancer, and yet again she has undergone the necessary treatment and has beaten it and she is now determined to fulfil her life’s goal of helping as many people achieve success as possible She has had to overcome a lot of challenges through life and horses have often helped her pull through and so it was her initial determination to change herself, and her passion for horses, that have led her firmly down the path she currently follows with her coaching.

Recognising how difficult it is sometimes to make the necessary changes within yourself, either for better health, or for more success in your professional life, or within your relationships, are all areas that can be helped by the amazing Equine Facilitated Learning sessions.

Horses have to be good at relationships to survive; they are herd

creatures and if they are not welcomed by their other herd members they may be putting their lives in danger. As prey animals they are very sensitive to danger, or uncomfortable situations, but would still rather follow a leader than lead themselves. These traits make them ideal animals to help you to discover your own leadership skills, relationship interactions, and learn how your actions affect others.

When I went to see Victoria to write this piece she kindly offered to give me a coaching session which I gladly accepted. I am always fairly open to new ideas, and obviously love horses so although I was a bit apprehensive about what it might entail I readily decided to give it a go.

We first of all discussed any personal challenges that I may be having and I explained that in my network marketing business I now look after quite a large team of people that I am working with to help them to get their businesses to the next level. Sometimes I worry that I do not work with them as well as I could, in order to help them reach their full potential.

Within 10 minutes the lovely horse that we used literally showed me many different ways I could improve and I was startled how much it related to the issues we had discussed.

My task was simply to get the horse to follow me through a series of poles and I did achieve it fairly quickly but there were moments when I definitely could have taken more time and when she felt hurried she literally stopped following me.

In fact the interactions between us created many ‘light bulb’ moments which I know are going to make me much better placed in all my relationships. It was simply amazing.

Victoria is keen to work with anyone who has a personal challenge, but also would like to genuinely help people with mental challenges, addictions and also cancer patients as she feels that the horses can show them so much about themselves that this can really help.

For a noble and beautiful animal to reveal to you how your behaviour is affecting certain patterns in your life is a very humbling experience.

I would thoroughly recommend that you get in touch and give this a go as I found it an extremely rewarding and enjoyable experience.

www.lancelearning.co.uk Victoria@lancelearning.co.uk 07702 206334

April 2014 show dates

Wednesday 2nd Unaffiliated show jumping evening at Badgworth Arena Mendip Bridleways and Byways Association meeting. The Thatched Cottage, Shepton Mallet. 7.30pm all welcome, non-MBBA members entry £2 each.

Thursday 3rd Clear round show jumping at The Hand Equestrian Centre, Clevedon

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Saturday 5th Affiliated dressage at Badgworth Arena Sunday 6th Unaffiliated dressage and show jumping at The Hand EC, Clevedon Wednesday 9th Unaffiliated show jumping evening at Badgworth Arena Sunday 13th Mark First School Fun Ride

Tuesday 15th Affiliated dressage at The Hand Equestrian Centre, Clevedon Wednesday 16th Unaffiliated show jumping evening at Badgworth Arena Friday 18th National Pony Society Somerset and Avon area 25 Good Friday Show at Badgworth Arena Sunday 20th Unaffiliated show jumping at The Hand EC, Clevedon

Tuesday 22nd Evening unaffiliated dressage at Pontispool Farm, Norton Fitzwarren Wednesday 23rd Unaffiliated evening show jumping at Badgworth Arena Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th BSJA Seniors at The Hand EC, Clevedon

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RIDING

Riding to success

CHEW Valley’s equestrian team have capitalised on their regional successes to qualify for a national competition later this year.

Chew Valley’s Izzy Twiggs, Abi Wyatt, Jess Wyatt and Alicia Showering beat 14 other teams in a Jumping with Style competition to finish in top place. This latest achievement is the team’s third successive win.

The competition held at Millfied Senior School saw the Chew Valley pupils compete against both private and comprehensive schools. They had to jump a series of eight show jumps and eight simulated cross country fences on an arena surface. Marks were awarded not just for speed, accuracy and clear jumping but also for the style of the horse and rider.

The team all jumped quickly and scored well in the style element meaning they finished on a total of just 22.5. They finished 12 points ahead of the next best school, Kings of Wessex.

Pictured (left to right): Izzy Twiggs, Alicia Showering, Jess and Abi Wyatt

Chew Valley’s Abi Wyatt and her horse Monaghans Town Earl also came individual second with their impressive performance at the event.

The win means the team have now qualified for the national competition at Addington Manor, Buckingham in October. It is the first time the school has

Riders have spring in their steps

(Photo courtesy of Esp-Photographic)

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had an equestrian team compete at national level.

Everybody’s efforts have paid off and team thanked Cheryle Twiggs, their team manager, for all her efforts in setting up and running the equestrian team, along with Jo Hibbert, of the school’s PE department.

AROUND 100 horse riders of all ages were joined by cyclists and walkers for the annual Cranmore Quarry Fun Ride in East Mendip.Organised by the Mendip Bridleways and Byways Association, the ride took in bridleways and lanes in a circular route starting at the East Somerset Railway.

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CAVING

Mendip pirates

PIRACY on Mendip?

The image of a galleon tied up at Birnbeck Pier while the crew celebrate a raid on the Waverley by quaffing ale and With PHILIP rum in a Weston HENDY waterfront pub does not come easily to mind.

Fear not, for the pirates I refer to confine their activities underground. They form a small, selfish band who visit other cavers’ digs, in the hope of being the first to enter and discover new cave before the legitimate diggers can do so for themselves.

The term was coined by cavers in 1965, when a caver, in all innocence, dug at a site in Swildon’s Hole, which had been earmarked by another party. The result was the discovery of a large passage, which was then called Pirate Chamber. It ascends to near the top of Red Baron Rift, but the large loose boulders at the end have deterred further digging.

Cavers are extremely jealous of their digs and although visitors are generally welcomed, this welcome is only extended when members of the digging team are present. There are several reasons for this, the main one being that only the diggers really know how stable, or otherwise, their excavation is.

Modern digging often involves a lot of shoring and grouting loose boulders with cement. Anyone not familiar with the excavation could bring down loose rock, with disastrous consequences, or disturb cemented blocks which have not yet stabilised. If explosives have been recently used, the remaining fumes could be toxic and dangerous – only the diggers know when it will be safe to re-enter the dig.

There is always the possibility, of course, that the dig is seen to be about to ‘go’, but for reasons of time, lack of tackle or just to assemble the entire digging team for the final push, it is left for another day. This is a dangerous time, because a careless word in the pub could alert another caver who decides to do a bit of clandestine pirating, and claim the glory of being the first to enter this new passage, even if he cannot brag about it in the pub or clubhouse afterwards.

The diggers will know, however, because

Longwood Valley Sink

they are likely to see footprints or damaged formations where they expected none.

After hard work often over several years, it is heartbreaking to learn that someone else, with no real effort, has pipped them to the post.

Footprints in ‘virgin’ passage do not always indicate piracy, however. More than once a dig has merely gone into previously known passage, which has been entered somewhere else. This happened to a group of us some years ago in Swildon’s Hole, when a dig upwards through loose boulders broke through into a high rift, where we found footprints.

This proved to be another route up to Vicarage Passage and the discovery was timely, as the boulders collapsed below the first explorer, who would have been trapped had there not been an alternative exit.

Several years ago an incident which verges on piracy occurred in St. Cuthbert’s Swallet at Priddy. A team had been digging a certain passage for some time, and one night some of the group left early to go to the pub. One of those remaining saw a small hole which had not been previously noticed and on wriggling through, a significant length of new passage was discovered.

This was not appreciated by those who had left early; they felt that the discoverers should have waited until the whole party could be reassembled. This is what happened at Templeton two years ago, when after much hard work, a narrow crack was widened until a deep decorated shaft could be seen. The working party managed to keep this a secret, until all of the team could be assembled for a first

mass descent. After that, of course, the find was made public, and other cavers were welcomed to see it for themselves.

On a more positive note, despite the heavy rains over the last few months (this winter has officially been the wettest on record), the Mendip caves have not suffered unduly. Some of the more floodprone caves have been left in favour of drier holes and showcaves have occasionally flooded, but we have had nothing like the problems of those poor folk down on the Somerset Levels.

Importantly, the backbreaking work undertaken by the caving community in the Longwood valley last year has successfully prevented water from pouring down Cheddar Gorge, tearing up the Tarmac and making for hazardous driving there. On a recent visit, I found that the excavated sink for Longwood Swallet was taking a large stream, but all the water was going underground here.

At some time, it was clear that this sink did not cope with all of the flow, but farther down the valley, the new entrance grille on Longwood Valley Sink had allowed all the excess water to go underground before it could reach Black Rock Drove and the Gorge.

The main resurgences are still pouring out a lot of water, but this is the usual winter flow, and although discoloured, it is not muddy. This is normal, and means that we have the usual run-off from the streams on the top of Mendip and most rainfall is soaking into the ground, although there remains a lot of surface water in the fields.

We are all looking forward to spring and some warmth and sunshine, when hopefully the land will dry out.

Phil has been caving for more than 47 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and is a caving instructor in Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves.

PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • APRIL 2014

Photograph by Phil Hendy

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Exclusive new brands at Kilver Court Designer Village

APRIL is a month of all-new and rather exciting times at Kilver Court Designer Village on the outskirts of Shepton Mallet.

The team is thrilled to welcome three exciting brands to the Designer Emporium: Agnes B, Amanda Wakeley and Pretty Ballerinas – three fantastic designer labels with no other outlets in the South West.

Brand Director, Freddie Saul said: “At Kilver Court we try to keep our offering as diverse and inspiring as possible – so we’re thrilled to welcome these brands rarely found outside of London.

Agnes B earmarks our first European label – an exciting step for Kilver Court. Each brand is world renowned for their quality and attention to detail, which has earned them each a loyal following and we’re sure our customers are going to love them too.”

The new brands are taking up residency in the Designer Emporium offering a fantastic edit of each brand collection with up to 60% off!

Kilver Court Designer Village offers a new experience in designer village retailing, which focuses on the purity and quality of the experience and a destination in the truest sense. Created by Mulberry founder and English designer Roger Saul, it’s a unique designer retail outlet destination featuring an eclectic, fresh and constantly updated edit of the best in fashion, interiors and lifestyle.

The super-stylish designer village offers designer fashion, home and lifestyle brands including the original Mulberry

WHAT’S ON

An outfit by Agnes B – one of the exciting new brands at Kilver Court

Factory Shop, Orla Kiely, Margaret Howell, Neom Luxury Organics, and many more!

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Winscombe Sandford Festival

ARRANGEMENTS are well advanced for Festival 2014, starting on June 21st and continuing for two weeks. There will be lots of events - probably more than 50 – and something for everyone to enjoy. A marquee will be located at the cricket ground, providing space for several events that were not possible at the first festival four years ago.

The events will include an opening concert by the Community Choir and Junior Choir, a fun run, a bull plop, quiz night, jazz concert and other musical events, a scarecrow extravaganza, open gardens, boules tournament, late night shopping and much more.

A WWI Commemorative Dinner is being planned for July 4th, to include fundraising for Help for Heroes. Some events will be ticketed and it will be advisable to book early - details will be in the programme.

Details: www.winsandfestival.org.uk

Showcase for live music

THE Bell Hotel in Shepton Mallet is reviving its regular live music nights and says it would be delighted to hear from any bands wanting to showcase their talents.

Its Friday night sessions attract a large and enthusiastic crowd, whether it’s for pub favourites Zetan Spore or firsttimers.

Anyone interested in performing at The Bell Hotel should call into the pub with details and a CD.

WELCOME BACK TO WEEKEND MUSIC! Friday, April 4th: Techno/House with Zetan Spore Friday, May 2nd: No Mean Feet – Barnstorming Blues Band from Bath Discos, karaoke – party bookings taken

BUFFETS AVAILABLE FOR BIRTHDAYS, EVENTS ETC. TRADITIONAL SUNDAY CARVERIES – JUST WALK IN!

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

COMING UP:

From Friday 4th April Sunday 6th April

From Friday 11th April

From Friday 18th April

From Weds 23rd April

Rio 2 2D & 3D (U) Broadway’s Romeo & Juliet (PG) Divergent (12A) Amazing Spider-Man 2 2D & 3D (Cert TBC) The Other Woman (Cert TBC) Richard II (12A)

G Book in person G Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk G Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

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Railway nostalgia fundraiser

WHAT’S ON

MODEL railway enthusiasts are staging an open weekend near Castle Cary to display a layout recreating the golden age of the Somerset and Dorset Railway.

They will be joined by wildlife artist and steam buff David Shepherd, who has donated a wildlife sketch for a

David Shepherd with the sketch he’s donated

fundraising raffle.

The ‘O’ gauge layout of Evercreech New, set in the 1960s, was built by enthusiast Julian Birley of North Barrow.

Julian is also the proud owner of a vintage vehicle which has possibly the strongest connection with railway heritage of any car.

The 4.25-litre Bentley – registration number NHY 581 – was owned by Ivo Peters, the amateur photographer and film maker from Bath who captured the steam age for future generations. He regularly

A view of Julian’s Evercreech New layout

photographed the car alongside his beloved steam locomotives.

The open weekend takes place on Saturday, April 26th and Sunday, April 27th at Julian’s home, Richmond House, in North Barrow, between Castle Cary and Sparkford. His layout will be joined by a model showing Castle Cary station in the 1990s.

The weekend will raise funds for the village church and hall. There will be vintage tractors, cars and lorries on display as well as the layouts.

The displays will be open from 10.30am-4pm each day. The draw for David’s painting will be made at midday on Sunday.

Family day at Bath Racecourse

BATH Racecourse’s Countryside Day is one of the most popular days of the season for families.

The racecourse on Lansdown Hill, near Bath will entertain Tractor Ted, the children’s farming superhero, on Bank Holiday Monday, May 5th.

There will be lots of Tractor Ted activities for young families to enjoy such as playing on mini-diggers in the digger den, riding on bouncy farm animals and of course Tractor Ted himself. Children will also be able to meet some friendly ewes and their lambs.

As well as Tractor Ted, the afternoon’s racing will start with a Shetland Pony race, followed by seven thrilling races.

WIN TICKETS

To win a family ticket answer this question: Where is Bath Racecourse located? Answers on a postcard to Bath Racecourse Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG. The first winning entry drawn will win the prize. The editor’s decision is final.

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M e n d i p

Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. Commercial entries cost £25.

Thursday March 27th Chew Valley Wildlife Group: “Otters on my doorstep” by Gill Brown in Chew Magna Millennium Hall, 7.45pm. Visitors £2.50.

“Wildlife of Blagdon Lake” an illustrated talk by Nigel Milbourne for the East Mendip branch of SWT at 7.30pm, St Catherine’s Church Hall, Park Road, Frome, BA11 1EU. Adults £2.50 (£1).

A concert of Verdi’s Requiem in the Abbey Church, Downside, Stratton-on-the-Fosse at 7.15pm. Tickets £10 (family £30), booking essential: 01761 235194 www.downside.co.uk Friday March 28th Quiz night in aid of Churchill/Langford village fund.

7.30pm, with bar, at Churchill Primary School.

Tickets from Churchill PO – include Ploughman’s.

Reel people screening Searching for the Sugarman.

The Prospect Theatre, Writhlington School, BA3 3NQ. Doors open 7pm for 7.45pm screening. Guest tickets £5. For reservations and info see www.reelpeople.org.uk or call 01761 418749 Friday March 28th – Sunday March 30th “Shades of Shipham” – an exhibition by five Shipham artists in the Village Hall. Friday evening, 6.30-8.30pm – meet the artists and preview. Open Saturday: 10am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm.

Park Lane Big Band Dance Night at Conygre Hall, Timsbury, BA2 0JG. Tickets £10. Bar, food, raffle.

Donation to Kenyan Orphan’s Project. Details: 01761 471245 or www.mendipmusic.com Saturday March 29th Compton Dundon Village Auction, 8pm in Meadway Hall, in aid of recreational facilities at the village hall. Auction catalogue: www.comptondundon.com or at the event from 6pm – drinks & hot dogs available. Details: 01458 273874.

Jumble Sale at Winscombe Community Centre, Sandford Road, at 2pm in aid of Old Station Millennium Green. Donations welcome: 01934 843868.

Bath Choral Society bring Mozart’s C Minor Mass together with Stravinsky’s Mass for Double Wind Quartet to Bath Abbey, 7.30pm. Tickets: www.bathboxoffice.org.uk or 01225 463362.

Chocolate Festival with chocolatiers from across the west country – hosted by Cheddar Vale Lions Club at the Kings of Wessex Academy, 10.30am – 4pm.

Wells Cathedral Tower Tour – learn about the history of the cathedral. Explore hidden spaces in the walls, roof and tower, 12noon–1pm. Email: visits@wellscathedral.uk.net Creating a cutting garden – workshop at the Bishop’s Palace & Garden, Wells. £10. To book: 01749 988111 ext 200.

“Born in a Pagan Land” – a vision of the ancientfuture Christianity in Somerset, 9.30am-1pm at The Old Deanery, Wells. To register contact johanna.halla@bathwells.anglican.org 01749 685104.

Bach’s St John Passion, performed by Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society, in the cathedral at 7pm.

Tickets £10-25 from the cathedral shop box office: 01749 672773.

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T i m e s

Oratorios” including Handel, Bach, Haydn. 7pm at St Andrew’s Church, Congresbury. Tickets £5 from 01275 878740 or on the door.

Reel people Family Film: Frozen, a Walt Disney animated film inspired by Andersen’s fairy tale The Snow Queen. The Prospect Theatre, Writhlington School, BA3 3NQ. Doors open 2.30pm for 3pm screening at 3pm (5pm finish with intermission). All tickets £2, at the door only.

Monday afternoons, March 31st –April 28th – excluding Easter Monday Leisure Painting – WEA art class course, 1-4pm at Glastonbury Methodist Hall. Fee £44 for 4 classes, free if on benefits. To book: 01392 457300.

Tuesday April 1st Diaghilev and the Ballet Russes – a lecture for Mendip DFAS. Call 01749 670652 for details.

Mendip Business Womens’ Forum, Mercer Designs office, Mells. From 7.30pm with drinks & networking then workshop on panic healing. Details: www.mendipbusinesswomen.co.uk or email kim@kinkajouknowhow.co Wednesday evenings April 2nd –April 30th Art & Soul – WEA art class course at Glastonbury Methodist Hall. Fee £30 for four classes (no meeting on April 23rd) free if on benefits. To book: 01392 457300.

Wednesday April 2nd Steve Knightley “Grow Your Own Gig” tour at Midsomer Norton Town Hall, BA3 2HQ. www.bathboxoffice.org.uk or 07977 737621.

Thursday April 3rd West Mendip Walkers: a 10 mile circular walk from Wedmore to Blackford, Mudgley, Bagley returning along Hurst Drove. Map: Explorer 141, ST482436.

Start 10am. Car park off the Cheddar Road B3151.

Wells Civic Society Blooming Wells with Non Hobson and Jenny Jones of Wells and District Floral Art Society, 7.30pm, Wells Museum, Cathedral Green.

Friday April 4th Yeo Valley Organic Garden Plant Fair, 11am-5pm.

Holt Farm, Blagdon, BS40 7SQ. Specialist nurseries and seed merchants. Local decorative metalwork.

Entry free, parking £1.

Redhill Village Club Open Mic Night from 8pm, hosted by Jerry Blythe. All welcome, artist and spectators alike, free entry. Church Road, Redhill, BS40 5SG.Tel: 01934 862619.

Dave and Rodge Cabaret with another riotous evening of sketches and songs! 7.30pm,Tilham Farm, Baltonsborough, BA6 8QA. An Evening with the Wit and Songs of Noel Coward presented by Peter Gill, Rook Lane Arts Centre, Frome, 7.30pm. Tickets £11.50 from Cheese and Grain: 01373 455421 or Bath Box Office: 01225 463362.

‘At the Mercy of Military Law: Eye-Witness accounts from the West Bank and Israel’ Holy Trinity Church Hall, Frome BA11 3DE, 7.30pm. Entrance: £3 (proceeds to EAPPI). All welcome. Details: www.quaker.org.uk/eappi or contact eappi@quakers.org.uk Saturday April 5th to end of October Sandford Station Railway Heritage Centre – a restored Victorian gem on the Strawberry Line at BS25 5AA. Open 11am – last entry 4pm. Admission free. Hot/cold drinks available Saturday April 5th Stainer’s “Crucifixion” sung by Congresbury

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Singers with bass soloist Simon Perkins and organist Jean Routley, at St Bridget’s church, Chelvey, 7.30pm. No charge.

Nailsea & District Horticultural Society Spring Show at Nailsea School.

Coffee Morning at St. Mary’s Church, Timsbury, 10am-noon, home-made cakes, gifts, raffle and quiz.

Details: 01761 470650 The White City Shakers skiffle group, from Welton, at Midsomer Norton Social Club. Details: 01761 410620.

Cantilena Choir Spring Concert. Durufle Requiem, with music for Holy Week by Tallis and Victoria. St Mary’s Church, Glastonbury, 7.30 pm. Tickets: £10, children under 15 £1. Available from Glastonbury Music Shop, by calling 01278 722870, or on the door.

Monday April 7th Green Drinks (www.greendrinks.org) an evening of socialising for environmentally minded people at The Archangel, Frome. Contact Laila, 07930 278445 or greendrinksfrome@gmail.com Tuesday April 8th “Faces and fortunes: British portraiture through the ages” a talk by Justine Hopkins for Clevedon Art Club, St Mary’s Church Hall, Walton, 7.30pm. Nonmembers £3.

‘Unearthing Egypt’s Heretic Pharaoh: Akhenaten and his City of the Sun’ a talk by Lucia Gahlin for Weston-s-Mare Archaeological & Natural History Society at 7.30pm at Victoria Methodist Church Hall, Station Road, W-s-M, BS23 1XU. Visitors welcome £2.50.

Wednesday April 9th “Fuchsias” – a talk by John Nicholas for Nailsea & District Horticultural Society, 7.30pm at the United Reformed Church Hall, Stockway North, Nailsea, £3 (members £2), all welcome.

Easter activities in the Stableyard of the Bishop’s Palace, Wells. Decorate eggs, make bunny masks, Easter trail: 11am-3pm.

Wells Evening Society Dr Mark Baldwin, the code breakers of Bletchley Park, meet 6.45 Wells Town Hall.

Thursday April 10th West Mendip Ramblers: A circular hilly walk of approx. 5.2 miles from Blagdon Lake, Butcombe, Lye Cross, Cowslip Green. Map: Explorer 154, ST604504.

Park at the end of the causeway. Start 1.30pm.

Friday April 11th Reel people screening Sunshine on Leith. The Prospect Theatre, Writhlington School, BA3 3NQ. Last screening of 2013/14 season. Doors open 7pm for 7.45pm screening. Guest tickets £5, for reservations and info see www.reelpeople.org.uk or call 01761 418749 Saturday April 12th Charity Concert for the Somerset Emergency Flood Relief Fund – organised by the villagers of Ston Easton at the village hall at 7.30pm. Entertainment all freely provided by local professionals and winners of Mendip’s Got Talent – details: www.stoneaston.org or floodaid2014.blogspot.co.uk. Tickets £5 from Val 01761 241617.

Senior Citizens Annual Tea Party, hosted by Cheddar Vale Lions Club at Kings of Wessex Academy. All welcome – if your name is not already on the list please contact Sally on 01934 842317.

Brent Knoll Bazaar, Farmer’s Market & Parish cafe, 10am-noon. Local produce and gift stalls plus bacon butties! Entrance free. To book a table (£7) call Eddie:

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01278 760308. Proceeds in aid of the parish hall.

Dig out those flares for a 60’s/70’s Night at Brent Knoll Parish Hall with music by the Fabulous Top Mix. Food available from a fish & chip van. Tickets £8 (U-14’s free if accompanied) from Eddie, 01278 760308 or the village shop, 01278 760225.

Chew Valley Choral Society to sing Brahms’ Requiem with piano duo and soloists at St John’s Church, Keynsham, BS31 2BL. Starts 7.30pm.

Tickets £10 (students, children £5) from 0117 9863354 or 01275 333014.

Redhill Village Club Pool Competition from 8pm.

Prize for the winner. All welcome. Tel: 01934 862619.

Baraka – at Priddy Village Hall. A wild musical collaboration from Ghana, Senegal, Dominica, Germany, Trinidad and Ireland. Details: www.kizzymusic.co.uk Artisan Market, Browne’s Garden Centre, Wells.

10.30am-4.30pm. Local artists, food producers and a selection of craft businesses showcase their wares.

Music from local choir, Jazzm’tazz. Easter egg raffle.

Raising money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Sunday April 13th Nostalgic Vintage Fair at Cossington Village Hall, 10am – 4pm. Adults £1, children free. Details: 07506 726652 (after 6pm).

Wells Cathedral Choir performing St John’s Passion accompanied by soloists, a brass quintet and strings. A devotional service, starting at 3pm.

Spring Fair – crafts & produce, 10am-3pm. Free entry. The Wellsway, Harptree Hill, BS40 6EJ. Details: 01761 221382.

Monday April 14th Woodlanders Music Hall AGM, 8pm, Horse & Groom Pub, East Woodlands. Tel Dave 01373 461901 Tuesday April 15th ‘Hypnosis – fact or fiction’ Speaker: Ken Roberts, 2pm St John’s Church Hall, Midsomer Norton.

Contact: Joan Norman, 01761 413580.

“Glittering Prizes – the mosaics of Ravenna”.

NADFAS talk – for further information: 01963 350 527.

Poetry Liaisons, Midsomer Norton Library, 7-8pm.

Free. Share your own or a favourite poem. No need to book.

Wednesday April 16th Easter activities in the Stableyard of the Bishop’s Palace, Wells. Decorate eggs, make bunny masks, Easter trail: 11am-3pm.

Mendip Gardening Club: “The Magic of Herbs – Folk Lore and how they are used today” Bett Partridge, Ston Easton Village Hall 7.30pm.Visitors £2. Contact 01761 241617 or 241079.

Thursday April 17th “Westonbirt” – a talk by Pauline Thomas for Crook Peak Gardening Club, 7.30pm at Cross Village Hall.

All welcome. Visitors £2.50. Contact Jean Buckler 01934 732286.

West Mendip Ramblers: circular walk of 11.9 miles from Congresbury to Puxton, returning over the hills at Sandford & Churchill. Map: Explorer 154, ST638435. Park near the church. Start 10am.

Friday April 18th-Sunday April 20th Wookey Hole Club 130th anniversary celebrations.

See page 85.

Friday April 18th – Monday April 21st Easter Art and Sculpture Exhibition at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden, 10am-5pm.

Entry £3.50, children and friends free. Details: 0117

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3314906. www.bristol.ac.uk/botanic-garden Good Friday April 18th Mad Hatters Tea Party! – at the WI Hall, Backwell, BS48 3QW, 2-6pm. Tickets £7.50 include an Easter egg, entry to the fancy dress competition and a magic show, from Gloria, 07870 598770 or 21 West Cafe Bistro.

Vintage Tractor Road Run, Railway Inn, Ashcott Road, Meare, Glastonbury. BA6 9SX. Meet at Railway Inn between 10am and 1030am for 11am start. Return approx 2pm. Free entry, donations/raffle for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. All welcome. Ffi: Ivan 07891 939055 (last year’s event raised £2609 for the air ambulance).

Saturday April 19th – Sunday April 27th ID-Artists present their latest exhibition ‘In Passing’ at the Hayloft & Saddlery, Ashton Court Estate, Bristol BS41 9JN. 10am-5pm everyday but will close at 4pm on 27th. Free Admission. Details: www.idartists.co.uk Saturday April 19th Bleadon Village Market, 9am-12.30. BS24 0PG. Busy market with over 30 stalls: crafts, local produce, bric-a-brac, plants and much more. Refreshments.

Details: 01934 812370, www.bleadon.org.uk/market Redhill Village Club – Live Music “Cabaret & Supper Evening” 8pm-11.30pm. Lots of prizes in the Easter Draw. All welcome. Tel: 01934 862619.

Midsomer Norton Vintage Market. The Hollies Gardens. Vintage fashion, crockery, furniture, ephemera and more. 8am-4pm. Ffi: 07840 858549 Sunday April 20th Heaven’s Gate Animal Rescue Centre, Nr Langport.

Visit the cats & dogs, stalls with books, plants and bric-a-brac. Home-made refreshments, raffle. 2-4pm.

Tuesday April 22nd Isle of Wedmore Gardening Club, talk by Andrew Hunt ‘Kingston Lacy through the Seasons’, 7.30pm Wedmore Masonic Hall.

Thursday April 24th “Wildlife on the Somerset Levels” – talk by Cath Mowat of Somerset Wildlife Trust for the East Mendip branch of SWT at 7.30pm, St Catherine’s Church Hall, Park Road, Frome, BA11 1EU. Adults £2.50 (£1) Friday April 25th “Buffalo Gals” at Buckland Dinham Village Hall 7.30pm. Bar. Tickets £12.50 from Linda 01373 461897 (paul-preece@sky.com )or David: 01373464156, fshicks@btinternet.com Live Music Night with The Harlem Rhythm Cats and Miss Cherry Bomb, 8pm-late at The Wellsway, Harptree Hill, BS40 6EJ.Tickets £5 in aid of Arthritis Research UK, from 01761 221382.

Tuesday, April 29th After Hours Music: ‘Singing in The May’. Songs to celebrate the Spring. Radstock Library, 7pm. Free.

Tickets from Radstock Library or by calling: 01225 394041.

Saturday April 26th Cam Valley Arts Exhibition & Sale, 10am-4pm at

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Conygre Hall, Timsbury. Demonstrations, children’s activities & refreshments. Free entry. In aid of: www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk Growing in a small space – vegetables in containers.

Workshop at the Bishop’s Palace & Garden, Wells. £10. To book: 01749 988111 ext 200.

The ‘Great Backwell Bake Off’ at Backwell’s Village Market in the W.I. Hall. Prize for the winner, cakes will be auctioned in support of the rebuild of Backwell Judo Club. To enter, contact Gloria: 07870 598770.

Sunday April 27th Day of Traditional Irish Set Dance at Dinder Village Hall, Nr Wells. Morning workshop, Ceili Band for afternoon. Beginners welcome – wear non-grip shoes.

No partner required. Details: 07979 523918 or valcuttywren@yahoo.co.uk Wednesday April 30th “Eccentric Vision/Steady Eye” a talk for Nailsea & Backwell Macular Support, who meet on the last wednesday of the month at Backwell W.I. Hall from 1.30pm. All welcome, whether they have Age-Related Macular Degeneration or not. Details: 01275 462107.

Thursday May 1st West Mendip Ramblers: a hilly circular walk of 9 miles from Tytherington, Trudoxhill and Witham Friary. Map: Explorer 142, ST452769. Park near Church. Start 10am. www.mendipramblers.co.uk Friday May 2nd Lions Brass 4 Youth Orchestra with Nailsea School Soloists in a charitable concert for the Rotary Club of Nailsea & Backwell, 7.30pm at Nailsea School, Mizzymead. Adults £7, U-16s £4. Proceeds in aid of local Charities Tickets from Chris Perry 01275 464240 or Bob Keightley 01275463149.

Redhill Village Club Open Mic Night from 8pm.

Hosted by Jerry Blythe. All welcome, artist and spectators alike. Free. Tel: 01934 862619.

Saturday, May 3rd Somerset Wildlife Trust plant sale and open garden.

Rookery House, The Causeway, Mark (on the B3139). 10.30am-1pm. Entrance £2 (inc. coffee).

Cake sale, exhibitions, raffle and activities for the children. Parking in field opposite by kind permission of Ms G. Isgar Saturday May 3rd – Saturday May 17th The Bristol Savages’ 104th Art exhibition will be held at the Red Lodge, Park Row, Bristol, from 10am4.45pm each day. Details: www.bristol-savages.org Saturday May 17th “The Hollywood Glitz Ball”. This amazing black-tie charity event will be held in a marquee on Shipham football field. Tickets £50pp from Hansford’s, Shipham, until 5th April. Details: www.shipham.org.uk/events

ANSWERS TO THE MENDIP MINDBENDER

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ACROSS: 1/2 Westbury sub Mendip, 5 Flutes, 10 Lobes, 11 Montacute, 12 Fuel oil, 13 Greater, 14 Dudes, 16 Dentistry, 18 Paper clip, 21 Gland, 23 Orchard, 25 Library, 27 Lytes Cary, 28 Indie, 29 Worlds, 30/7 National Trust.

DOWN: 1 Well-fed, 3 Bisto, 4 Rambled, 6 Leavening, 8 Swear by, 9 Onegin, 15 Surpassed, 17 Tea garden, 18 Poor law, 19 Lad mag, 20 Palmyra, 22 Dry cell, 24 Cater, 26 Blini.

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Something for everyone

THE countdown is on for the 151st Royal Bath and West Show which features a host of new attractions to wow the crowds.

This year’s event takes place during half term, from Wednesday, May 28th to Saturday, May 31st and show manager Alan Lyons says it will be a showstopper.

Alan said: “There really is something for the whole family from daredevil displays in the main ring to the country’s top livestock on show.”

In the main ring will be The Devils Horsemen – one of Europe’s leading teams of horsemasters, stuntmen and stunt coordinators. They have featured in film and television productions such as The King’s Speech, The Eagle and The Duchess.

Jamie Squibb will be bringing Squibbfreestyle motocross arena stunt show to the main ring with a team of riders performing breath-taking jumps and stunts mid-air.

Another new feature is Glorious Gardening which will feature the Instant Garden Challenge, Gardening talks and demonstrations, floral art marquee and garden sundries marquee.

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The Devils Horsemen will perform in the main arena

This year’s show will also mark 50 years of the Golden Shears award in the Sheep Shearing Pavilion.

Alan added: “Our Farming for the Family section will have a range of displays and demonstrations which show the route from field to fork with an extended butchery and cookery demonstrations not forgetting our new artisan food marquee will mean it’s a must-visit for all food lovers.

“We will, of course, also have the best of British livestock and equine at the Show, which is afterall how it started back in the 19th century.

“We are the only four day agricultural show in England and we have the top animals in the country being displayed and competing to be named champion.”

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