Mendiptimes - Volume 10 Issue 3

Mendip Times

Front cover designs:Layout 1

24/7/14

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 3

13:01

Page 2

FREE

Celebrating life on the Mendips and surrounding areas

AUGUST 2014

THE GREAT WAR – MENDIP REMEMBERS Local people, local history, local places, local events and local news

Miles Morgan ad:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:04

Page 1

Contents page:Layout 1

24/7/14

12:54

Page 1

MENDIP TIMES

CONTENTS

Welcome

WE are packed with news of events this month, ranging from Glastonbury, Priddy Folk and Frome festivals to some very busy village fetes, all of which deserve a round of applause for the hard work put in by those who organise them.

Thankfully the weather was kind for most – and that’s reflected in our pages of pictures. One reader commented this month that the magazine is always full of happy faces. Why wouldn’t it be in such a glorious area in such wonderful weather?

On a more sombre note, once again we reflect the centenary of the start of World War 1 on August 4th, 1914, with news of commemorative events around the area and pictures from Axbridge Remembers, a wonderful re-enactment of life in the town at the outbreak of war.

We also have a Focus on Axbridge this month, previewing the Somerset Showcase which will be held there, as well as looking ahead to the MidSomerset Show and the Glastonbury Extravaganza – and giving you the chance to win tickets.

We hear about an invasion of Cornish Pilot Gigs in Clevedon and take to the water on Cheddar Reservoir for a competition there.

With a bumper guide to what’s on in the summer holidays, as well as all of our regular contributors and features.

Enjoy August – the carnival season is next!

September 2014 deadline: Friday, 15th August 2014.

Published: Tuesday, 26th August 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: Axbridge Remembers.

Photo by Steve Egginton (see page 44).

10

World War I – commemorated by both young and old

71

Prince charming – a royal walkabout in Glastonbury

78

Summer of love – Priddy’s Folk Festival in pictures

98

Gig racing – meet the Clevedon rowers

Plus all our regular features Environment...................................6 Arts & Antiques ...........................18 Farming Mary James MBE..........22 Food & Drink...............................24 Business ........................................36 Charities .......................................46 Internet and Crossword..............52 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......53 Walking Sue Gearing....................54 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........56

Gardening Mary Payne MBE ......58 Community Simon Selby .............66 Health Dr Phil Hammond.............68 Caving Phil Hendy........................72 Property........................................73 Motoring .......................................77 Homes and Interiors....................82 Riding Celia Gadd ........................92 Sport..............................................96 What’s On ..................................101 MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 3

Page 4 August:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:14

Page 1

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.

• 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

Mendip Times needs you!

Due to continuing expansion, we have a vacancy for an experienced Sales Executive with a good telephone manner and proven computer skills

Send details to: enquiries@mendiptimes.co.uk

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

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

We pride ourselves on being involved in the local community be it sponsoring local events, giving talks at local schools or providing work experience for young people contemplating a future career in law.

In May we hosted our usual hospitality tent at the Bath & Vicky Scorse, from our Cheddar West show sponsoring the “Power office, at the Bath and West Show of the Past” exhibit. Dervla Nash and Robin Weelen were thrilled to be asked to judge the Best Tractor competition and we all enjoyed talking to those of you who popped by to say hello. e show proved to be a wonderful success and we look forward to next year. e next local event in our busy calendar is the Mid-Somerset show which takes place in Shepton Mallet on Sunday, August 17th. We will as usual be on site in the ‘Shepton in Business’ tent alongside the main ring – we look forward to seeing you there.

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

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

Website: www.bgw.uk.com

News page 5:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:15

Page 1

MENDIP TIMES

Art show success

Some of the art on show at Wells Town Hall

DRAWINGS, paintings, prints and sketches from artists of all ages and abilities were on show at an event at Wells Town Hall.

Titled “All About You”, all artwork on display depicted the themes of “how you see yourself”, “how you see others”, “how others may see you” or “what’s around you?”

The show, which attracted 120 pieces by 80 local artists, was organised by Wells-based housing association Aster Communities and was supported by Wells Community Education Partnership, Compass Disability, Wells Town Hall, the Blue School, and Avon and Somerset Constabulary. The entries came from Aster residents or clients.

Margaret Wright, Aster Communities regional director for Somerset and Devon and Cornwall, said: “We knew there were lots of talented, artistic people living locally but even we were surprised by the incredibly high standard of all the entries we received.

“As well as providing a showcase for their work, it’s also given them a huge confidence boost seeing their creations on display to the community, which was one of the main reasons we decided to hold the event.”

First lady

RADSTOCK and Midsomer Norton Lions Club has its first female president, Margaret Small, who has taken over from Trevor Hipwood – and she was soon at work at the Lions’ annual duck race.

The annual meeting also honoured welfare chairman, Russell Ford, with a Melvin Jones Fellowship, the organisation’s highest honour.

Study centre opens

NEWS

The new sixth form centre on the Norton Hill campus

A £2.6 MILLION study centre for sixth formers in Midsomer Norton has been officially opened to the delight of students.

The centre, on the Norton Hill school campus offers 3,000 square feet of space with dedicated rooms and study areas for sixth formers only, as well as extensive IT facilities.

Headteacher Alun Williams said: “I am delighted that this outstanding new facility will be available for our sixth form students. They deserve the best accommodation and this exciting new study and social area is just what our expanding sixth form needs.”

The Sixth Form Council said: “We’re really lucky to have this bright and spacious area; a place we can all learn, socialise and take pride in.”

Sixth formers make themselves at home

Former head teacher Peter Bevan (left) and current head Alun Williams prepare to cut the ribbon to open the centre MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 5

Environment section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:16

Page 6

MENDIP TIMES

Notes on a small city

MORE than 150 people needed little motivation to make their views clear about what they want to see happen to Wells in the future.

They attended Your City; Your Say, the launch of the Wells Neighbourhood Plan, where they were invited to stick notes to plans of the city with their ideas for future developments.

The comments they made included: • More long-term parking needed in Wells.

• Parking permits should be made available in the Union Street car park.

• Car parking in the centre of Wells should be free for the first hour.

• The character of Wells as England’s smallest city should be maintained.

• Wells needs a railway station.

Previously made suggestions that Wells needs the schools, safe routes to school, health centres and transport infrastructure to cater for the city’s growing population received wide support. The Neighbourhood Plan will feed into the Mendip District Plan which will set out proposals for development across the district and will be a statutory document.

Steering group secretary Chris Winter told visitors to the exhibition: “This is not a short-term thing; this is just the very first event.”

Guest speaker Martin Willey, a former president of the Royal Town Planning

One resident posts her comment about the future of Wells

Guest speaker Martin Willey, a former town planner

Members of the Wells Neighbourhood Plan committee

Post-it notes on a map of Wells

Institute predicted that the Wells Neighbourhood Plan would take on

increasing significance in the coming months. He said: “The Neighbourhood Plan is not going to disappear. All parties support it. The Local Plan is something against which the Neighbourhood Plan is to sit. I think you will find that, in the next 18 months, it will have equal status.”

Philip Welch, chairman of the neighbourhood plan steering group, said later: “All their views are being collated and the next step will be to arrange visits to schools, clubs and other groups across Wells to hear what they want for the future of their city.”

Any group or organisation in the city which would like the steering group to visit them should contact secretary Chris Winter by e-mail: chris.f.winter@btinternet.com

PAGE 6 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Environment section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:16

Page 7

ENVIRONMENT

Mellow Wellow – the venue for this year’s rambling festival

THIS year’s Mendip Ramblers free walking festival will be based on the village of Wellow, organisers have announced.

Taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the festival will offer three circular walks of different lengths: around six miles, nine miles and 11 miles, beginning at 10am plus one short walk of three-four miles beginning at 1pm.

Mendip Ramblers say everyone is welcome, with visitors from different parts of the UK regularly coming to the area to join them. They ask walkers to arrive in time to boot up and sign in for

Walkers at the start of last year’s festival which was held in Wells

the walk of their choice.

G The festival takes place on Saturday, August 23rd, Sunday, August 24th and

Monday, August 25th. It will be based at the village hall in Wellow, with car parking at the Old Station Car Park.

For more information visit: www.mendipramblers.co.uk or ring Les on 07768 556735 or Mary on 01373 474530.

Farm visit teaches youngsters a lesson

Youngsters and staff at Warren Farm

CHILDREN from Priddy Pre-School visited a local farm as part of an ongoing project on farming and the environment.

During their time at the Small Brothers’ Warren Farm, the children fed goats and counted the eggs laid by different breeds of chicken and also saw the pigs being reared there along with rare breed cattle.

They then had the chance to make – and eat – their own pizzas using a woodfired oven.

A spokeswoman for the school said: “Priddy Pre School is very fortunate to be set in a rural environment, giving the children a safe environment for them to work and play with the added experience of neighbouring cows peering through the windows of the village hall where they are located!”

The play school currently has vacancies available for September. Contact the school on 01749 870755 or visit www.priddypreschool.co.uk

Hedgerows and photos ENTRIES are open for the Somerset Hedge Group 2014 digital photographic competition, a biennial event celebrating the iconic images of the local landscape.

The theme for this year is Hedgerow Landscapes Through the Seasons and is aimed at amateur photographers

with a maximum of three entries per person.

The competition was launched by the group in 2008 with Open and Junior (aged under 15) classes. This year’s competition is being supported by CPRE, Mendip Hills AONB, Blackdown Hills AONB and Marshall

Agroecology Ltd; entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 1st.

The Somerset Hedge Group was formed in 1997 to co-ordinate the efforts of individuals and organisations who are concerned about hedgerows in the old county area of Somerset.

For an entry form and competition rules, visit: www.somerset-hedgegroup.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 7

Environment section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:16

Page 8

MENDIP TIMES

ENVIRONMENT

Ch a s i n g t h e s u n

OVER 40 people took part in a novel event around the new Mendip Ring footpath to celebrate the summer solstice.

Over 30 hours, between 11pm on June 19th and 4am on June 21st, they chased the sun from Burrington Combe – on footpaths, bridleways, droves, green lanes, across fields, up and down hills and rocky climbs – in a relay run over 17 stages, covering over

117 miles, returning to Beacon Batch to watch the sunrise on the longest day of the year.

The Sunchase was organised by Sara Louise Marshall, a member of Frome AC, with fundraiser Jim Plunkett-Cole, a member of Somer and Town and Country Harriers, who ran 10k every day last year to raise money for charities.

Sara Louise said: “It was a challenge for people. The route was testing. Some of the footpaths hadn’t been cleared for a while.

There were lots of cows, lots of very lively cows! And for much of the preparation for the day, there was lots of mud.

“Many people taking part had never run off-road before, let alone navigated cross-country with maps and map-apps on phones. And they all loved every minute of it. We were so lucky to have a beautiful day for it, but even without the sun, the atmosphere of joy and excitement would have carried everyone through; it was an amazing adventure.”

Rain or shine, the summer events go on

with DAVID MAINE

WE are well into the summer season of fetes, fairs, agricultural shows and major outdoor events and some appear to be more dependent upon good weather than

others.

Most carry on regardless. Despite A balloon takes off near Doulting

M E N D I P

W E A T H E R

S C E N E

To report potholes contact Somerset Direct on 0845 345 9155 or via: www.somerset.gov.uk

PAGE 8 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

the cloudburst and storm over the Glastonbury Festival site on the Friday afternoon which led to many of the stages being closed down temporarily for safety reasons amidst fears of lightning strikes, the thousands of revellers continued to party in the mud and rain. This year, the festival appears to have got off fairly lightly.

In a similar vein, visitors to this year’s Mid-Somerset Agricultural Show will enjoy themselves whatever the weather has in store for Sunday, August 17th – although packing an umbrella is never a bad idea.

At the other end of the scale, ballooning – so popular around here – is so dependent upon suitable weather conditions. From single flights to the Bristol Balloon Fiesta – taking place from August 7th-10th – anyone connected with the sport is well used to cancellations and postponements.

Hot air balloon flying is a skill not for everyone and can be quite tricky

Smiles after the rain at Glastonbury

even if the weather appears good.

Anything more than a light surface wind, say, eight to ten mph can make landing the balloon quite difficult and then there has to be good visibility, with a cloud base of at least 1000ft to fly any distance. Any rain, or risk of thunder and lightning? Forget it.

So, whatever the events you have planned for August, let’s hope the weather is everything you wish for!

Bye for now.

PENNY

Page 9 August:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:19

Page 1

R M (PLANT HIRE & DEMOLITION) LTD Ston Easton

TOPSOIL

High quality dry screened or plain

CRUSHED CONCRETE

All sizes graded and single size

ROAD PLANINGS LIAS STONE Large or small quantities supplied

01761 241387 www.pennyplant.com

Tel: 0800 097 8611

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

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

History feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:25

Page 10

MENDIP TIMES

Who were these men?

Communities remember

T H E G R E A T WA R 1 9 1 4 - 1 8

Communities across Mendip have been busy preparing to mark the centenary of the outbreak of World War One on Monday, August 4th and the four years of the conflict which followed. Here, we look at just some of the commemorative events.

Horror of the trenches

AN all-too-realistic replica of a World War One trench will provide the focal point of four years of events and exhibitions at Wells and Mendip Museum.

A team of volunteers has spent hours building the walkthrough display which will give visitors a sense of the sights, sounds and horrors of the battles.

The trench will lead visitors through to a series of exhibitions reflecting the roles played by Wells and its

Geoff Dickson, who oversaw the creation of the trench, in a replica WWI cape PAGE 10 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

PENSFORD Local History Group is seeking information about some of the men who are listed on the village’s war memorial from the 1st World War. They are: GPL Cameron Ruck S.L.I, PTE Charles Coles S.L.I., PTE Sidney Corps S.L.I., PTE Reginald Duckett S.L.I., GNR Disney Grant Roles F.A., GNR James Membery R.C.A., and PTE Reginald Watts M.G.C. The group is planning to commemorate the centenary of the war by finding the real stories behind the names of the fallen on the war memorial. Leading the project are Chris James and Leigh Comber, with the help of members of the history group.

They would like to hear from anyone who may have artefacts, photos, memories, and information that may help with the stories of these men.

Details: Therese Tyson 01761 490670 or Hilary Cox on 01761490656; email hcox571503@aol.com or contact Chris and Leigh at Chrisjbjames@aol.com or leighcomber@hotmail.com

residents in the war and will change as the years go by.

It was designed after visits to the trenches of Flanders and the Somme by Year 9 pupils from The Blue School and Wells Cathedral School who undertook project work reflecting their experiences.

The first exhibition, due to open on Saturday, August 2nd, will focus on eight stories of individuals involving the early naval skirmishes, the first battles of the Western Front, including Ypres, and the Gallipoli campaign.

Elsewhere in Wells, August will see a family history day; the last night of the St Cuthbert’s music festival will feature WWI music and poetry and the Wells Festival of Literature in October will include a weekend with a focus on WWI. A new website, Wells Remembers, to reflect the commemorations, has been designed by sixth form students from Wells Cathedral School. Visit: www.wellsremembers.com

Some home comforts in the trenches

History feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:25

Page 11

The medal detective

A Gatling gun looks out over No Man’s Land

HISTORY

A WORLD War One Victory medal found in a field on Mendip in the 1950s is to be donated to the Somerset Military Museum in Taunton after some genealogical detective work by a Bath and North East Somerset Council employee.

The medal originally belonged to Private William Wareham, of the Somerset Light Infantry, who was awarded Victory and British medals after taking part in the conflict. It will go on show at a commemorative WWI exhibition in Bath from Friday, August 1st.

It was found in a field near Green Ore by retired dentist David Boswell in the late 1950s when he and his wife Joan moved to the area. The medal has “Private W. Wareham 5117” etched on the rim.

The medal was restored to descendants of Private Wareham thanks to the efforts of amateur genealogist Graham Winter, who works in the council’s Health and Safety Team. He was able to help trace the family of the World War One veteran after inspecting local parish records and service records for Somerset Light Infantry held in the National Archive.

Graham conducted a search of the Census returns for 1890, 1901 and 1911 before tracking down Private Wareham’s descendants via local parish marriage registers. He found that Private Wareham had married Eveline M Veasey in the first quarter of 1935.

Graham said: “At this point, I spoke to a member of the council’s staff with the surname Veasey. He confirmed that he had an Uncle Bill and Aunt Eve, with three children, John, Kathleen and Doug.

“He contacted Kathleen’s daughter and she spoke to her Uncle John about the medal. The family have since made contact with the finders and have decided that the council can feature a photograph of the medal as part of their exhibition display.”

Following agreement with the Wareham family, Mr Boswell plans to donate the medal to the Somerset Military Museum, which holds the regimental archives and collections for the Somerset Light Infantry.

The ‘WW1 Remembered’ exhibition will run at Bath Central Library from Friday, August 1st – Monday, August 11th. The exhibition will feature memorabilia from local people and stories from the conflict.

Poppies grow next to the memorial stone to Harry Patch outside the museum

Private William Wareham’s medal MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 11

History feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:26

Page 12

MENDIP TIMES

Sharing memories

Communities remember

T H E G R E A T WA R 1 9 1 4 - 1 8

Flowers for the fallen

Some of the team who decorated St Aldhelm’s Church in front of the memorial

SAINT Aldhelm’s Church in Doulting was the setting for a spectacular flower festival to raise funds for the restoration of the war memorial for the men of the village and nearby Prestleigh who died in World War One. Unusually, the memorial is inscribed on the rear wall of the church and also lists those killed in World War Two.

Fundraising in Glastonbury for Belgian refugees

AN interactive project has been launched in Somerset for people to share their memories and memorabilia from World War One. Somerset Remembers explores the impact that the war had on the county and is part of a series of events and activities being planned for the coming months. It has been organised by Somerset Heritage.

Amongst the most fascinating glimpses into life in the war years in Somerset come from school and parish records such as: Nunney School log book (excerpt). 21 September 1917. From the Ministry of Munitions a circular has been received asking that the staff and children will assist in collecting horse-chestnuts for use in the manufacture of munitions thus helping to set free food material hitherto used. We have collected so far about 1 bushel of nuts, which will be sent to Frome Red Cross Hospital to be sold by the management for the funds of the same, thus assisting a really good work.

Witham Friary School Log Book (excerpt). 23 June 1916. The School Attendance Officer visited the school in the morning.

David Slade has taken the place of a man who has gone to the Front; he is therefore allowed to leave school for a time. Henry House, who is nearly 14, has been granted leave for the hay and harvest months.

Conscientious Objectors were imprisoned in H.M Prison Shepton Mallet during the war. Many Somerset men appealed against military conscription on religious or moral grounds. Some Conscientious Objectors agreed to serve in a “non-combatant” role. Others refused to contribute to the war effort in any way and were imprisoned for their beliefs.

To share memories, records or photographs on the community archive, visit: www.somersetremembers.com or to follow the blog visit: www.somersetremembers.wordpress.com

Thankful village

One of the impressive displays PAGE 12 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

A PLAQUE commemorating Rodney Stoke’s status as a Thankful Village will be unveiled at a special service St Leonard’s Church at 11am on Sunday, August 3rd.

Last summer Medwyn Parry and Dougie Bancroft completed a sponsored motorbike ride to all 51 Thankful Villages in the UK. The ride was in aid of the Royal British Legion.

All the villages have been invited to unveil their plaques at the same time.

24/7/14

13:26

Page 13

HISTORY

Frome on the frontline

The statue of Charlie Robbins

WAR memorials have been cleaned and restored elsewhere, but Frome will witness a unique service on Sunday, August 3rd – the dedication of a new memorial.

A statue of WWI soldier Charlie Robbins, from Frome, will have pride of place outside the town’s Memorial Theatre, itself a tribute. The statue was cast at the town’s JW Singer foundry but has languished almost unnoticed for many years.

The Frome branch of the Royal British Legion, the town council, Frome Museum and the theatre have joined forces to organise the dedication which will mark the beginning of the four year commemoration of the centenary of WW1.

Uniformed and non-uniformed personnel, families and people of all ages are being invited to assemble from 2.30pm for the service at 3pm by Father Neil Maxted.

Frome Museum has launched a new exhibition about the conflict. Running through to November, “Frome on The Frontline” tells the story of life in the town during WWI through local newspaper reports and letters home from soldiers.

The exhibition focuses on the important role that local industry played in the war effort and pays tribute to Frome’s own war heroes, not only those on the frontline, but the workers in the factories, families who took in refugees and those tirelessly working for war charities like the Frome War Hospital Depot and the Prisoners of War Fund.

The exhibition includes a collection of letters which Frome

Nurses at work

Church services

MANY communities will be holding special church services as part of a nationwide evening of prayer on Monday, August 4th.

Wells Cathedral is holding a service at 10pm, followed by a candlelit procession to the Recreation Ground where a new poppy bed will be dedicated. Everyone is welcome to attend.

In Frome, a service of reflection will be held at 7pm at St. John’s Church, Frome will be hosting a Service of Reflection. Between 10 and 11pm, Frome will also take part in the candlelit

soldier, Harry Horwood, wrote to his family, from signing up in Taunton in 1915, to his last poignant letter in August 1918, just before he was fatally wounded. Through the archive of Mary Bullen, visitors can catch a glimpse of life as a nurse at the local military hospital at Longleat House. The JW Singer foundry produced more than 23.000 tons of metal for the war effort and as recorded in the minute book visitors will be able to see the trials and tribulations involved for a factory and its workers in the war.

Many photographs, medals and original items from the trenches will all be on show. The exhibition is open at the museum on North Parade every Tuesday-Saturday from 10am2pm. Admission is free.

vigil at the Memorial Theatre Garden of Remembrance.

Shepton Mallet is organising a series of events including a silent vigil from 11am to 7pm at the Cenotaph. A procession will leave the Market Place at 6.45pm to Collett Park, via the Cenotaph, and will be led by the HMS Heron Volunteer Band. In the park will be a marquee featuring a living history video and a memorabilia display commemorating the 140 citizens of Shepton Mallet who went to war and never returned. Refreshment and live music will be on offer and

people are welcome to bring their own picnics. A procession will leave the park led by drummers to the parish church for a candlelit service.

Communities remember

T H E G R E A T WA R 1 9 1 4 - 1 8 MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 13

(Photograph courtesy of Chris Bailey)

History feature:Layout 1

Glastonbury feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:28

Page 14

MENDIP TIMES

A perfect Dolly mixture Photography by Mark Adler

3 1

2

5

8

7

PAGE 14 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Glastonbury feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:28

Page 15

GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL 2014 6

4

11

12 9 10

1. Let the party begin!

2. ‘Dust’ by the English National Ballet. The poignant WWI piece, choreographed by Akram Khan, who also planned the London 2012 Olympic opening ceremony, left thousands in front of the Pyramid Stage in tears – including photographers 3. Good golly, it’s Dolly – the glam queen of Country and Western 4. Blondie on the Other Stage 5. Here comes the sun 6. Was this the youngest performer at Glastonbury? Seven-year-old Jake accompanies Thea Gilmore 7. Volunteers from Wells Rugby Club ran a hog roast stall in aid of club funds and towards the proposed new sports hub for the city 8. Michael Eavis is all smiles 9. A cloudburst over the site led to the music being stopped on all the stages 10. Pure gold – raising a can on Sunday evening 11. Sultan of Swing – former Dire Straits bass player John Illsley played some of the band’s biggest hits along with some of his own songs. Fellow Straitsman Guy Fletcher joined him on keyboards 12. Guy Garvey, Elbow’s frontman MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 15

Glastonbury feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:28

Page 16

MENDIP TIMES 17

18

19

13

14

15 16

PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

13: There’s only one brand of footwear to be worn if your surname is Hunter: sisters Charlotte, Catherine and Sofie from Shepton Mallet 14: Simon Young, Saraya Ballard and baby Kaiba enjoy the sunset on Saturday evening 15: Hello Glastonbury – volunteers from St Aldhelm’s school in Doulting welcome festival goers to the family camping field 16: Police cadets from Street on patrol 17: Metallica’s James Hetfield (left) and Kirk Hammett 18: A ray of sunshine 19: The Mighty Gareth at William’s Green 20: Alternative hip-hop from Young Fathers on the stage at The Park 21: An Elbow fan in front of the Pyramid Stage 22: Have I missed something?

23: Animal Farm – a moving artwork said to be by Banksy tours the site 24: Let’s face it – the crowd in front of the Pyramid Stage 25: Where’s my tent?

26: Say sausages! Carbinian Dehn from La Grande Bouffe at work 27: Best seats in the house? The front of the Pyramid Stage on the Monday morning

Glastonbury feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:29

Page 17

GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL 2014 20

24 25

22 21

23

26 27

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 17

Arts & Antiques section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:32

Page 18

MENDIP TIMES

Rotary honours young artists from Kings of Wessex

THE Rotary Club of Mendip has awarded prizes to students from the Kings of Wessex Academy, who entered the Rotary Young Artists competition, organised by Rotarian Doug Johnson. The judging panel was chaired by Rotarian Richard Acreman and included local artist Peter Keen and Mrs Irene McIntosh.

The winners were: Textiles (Somerset Landscapes): 1st Katharine Murray – Tree through the Seasons; 2nd Isha Jackson-Voyzey − Weeping Willow.

Textiles (sew vintage samples): 1st Daisy Searle − Fob watch, Teacup and Flowers; 2nd Rachel Davenport – Bird and Flowers.

Art (Still Life and Landscape): 1st Taddy Horacek – Dredge our Rivers; 2nd Emily Higgins – Border Collie.

Art (Drawing and Painting): 1st Jess Julian-Anstey – Goldfish, Wolf and Pot with smiley face; 2nd Mae Ellis – Clock and Milkjug/Teapot.

Art (Portrait, Mixed Media): 1st Gabbie Wright; 2nd Sophie Marshall.

Photography: 1st Rosalyn Quick – Sheep; 2nd Tom Collyer – Grass, Legs.

The winner of the shield for best entry was Gabbie Wright.

Summer exhibition

ARTIST Robin Gray has a surprise in store for his friends in the caving world, who only know of his paintings of caving scenes in underground Mendip.

His new exhibition at Wells and Mendip Museum, starting on August 2nd, will feature more than 30 new abstract works.

Robin is chairman of the International Society for Spelaeological Art and his paintings will be shown in the newly restored exhibition room at the museum, which was founded by Herbert Balch, considered to be the father of Mendip caving.

But since his first exhibition in 1969, Robin has exhibited his abstract works widely, as well as combining painting with teaching. After moving to Somerset he and his wife Sue ran Meare Arts Centre for a number of years.

Now based at Albany House, in Cheddar, Robin runs Draycott Art Club and displays members’ work in the front window. Robin and Sue ran the folk club at the Queen Victoria, Priddy for 20 years and their daughter, Holly, is a popular local singer.

Their other daughter, Louisa, will get married to a tree surgeon in Stockhill Woods later this year.

Mendip Times reduces travel costs 100,000 potential customers just a few miles from your business

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Arts & Antiques section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:32

Cameras come calling

Page 19

TAMLYNS’ mixed General and Antique sales are going from strength to strength, now including a much more varied selection of items than ever before. The last sale held on July 22nd saw a packed room of eager bidders, many who were attending for the first time.

There is always a good selection of furniture (antique and some more modern), gold and silver jewellery, costume jewellery, silver, ceramics, glassware, paintings and prints, collectables and plenty of interesting decorative items to embellish your home.

Sometimes there are also some restoration pieces that come in that would be perfect if you wanted to give yourself a painting or upholstery project, a unique item for your home or to sell on. With sales held every three weeks, there has certainly been no problem filling the saleroom with lots each time!

No online bidding takes place at these particular sales which is a rarity these days, but lots are still making good prices in the room. Gold and silver have been making their prices and Beswick still seems desirable.

The upcoming sale on August 12th will see the cameras returning, with BBC’s Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is visiting to film an episode. Some well-known BBC antiques presenters and experts will be completing a ‘buying

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

challenge’ in order to raise money for charity.

The next sale will be held on August 12th at 10.30am with viewing on Monday August 11th and on the morning of sale.

If you would like to enter items into our General, Antique or Collectors’ sales, please contact the office for information on 01278 445251.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 19

Arts & Antiques section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:32

Page 20

MENDIP TIMES

Bullish bidding at Mendip Auction Rooms

FOLLOWING a large Antiques sale in June, Saturday, July 12th was host to another large sale with approximately 700 lots of antiques and collectable items going under the hammer.

There was an abundance of buyers in the room leading to heated bidding with a large number of items selling well above estimate.

Collectables were wanted with a George Washburn banjo, dated 1892, selling for £680, whilst a Beswick Galloway bull 1746c met with particularly strong interest selling for £700. There was a good range of furniture entered and an Orkney oak rocking chair sold for £850.

The valuers from the Auction Rooms are always content to make a home visit free of charge. They will be in the following areas on the dates shown –

August 4th – Frome Area; August 5th – Wedmore Area; August 11th – Midsomer Norton Area and August 12th – Castle Cary Area.

Simply call the Auction Rooms on 01749 840770 to ask a valuer to call in.

If the date isn't convenient, don't worry,

they are quite happy to call in at another time.

Also see the team from Killens at the Mid-Somerset Show on August 17th and the Chew Stoke Harvest Home on September 6th.

For further information, contact Tom Killen – 01761 241127; tom@killens.org.uk

PAGE 20 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Arts & Antiques section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:33

Page 21

Some corner of a foreign field

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

CLEVEDON Salerooms’ recent specialist sale included an important First World War Military Cross medal group awarded to Captain Vivian Sumner Simpson of the 12th Battalion York and Lancaster Regiment.

Auctioneer, Toby Pinn, from the salerooms, said it was an honour and truly humbling to deal with such an important collection, which included some 90 letters and photographs sent

by Captain Sumner to his brother during the course of the war.

Before the war Sumner played football for Sheffield

Wednesday and scored a hat-trick against Manchester United. Captain Sumner, described as the most popular man in the regiment, played a leading part in the attack on the Cordona Trench and as the London Gazette reported: “He was the first man into the enemy trench and was involved in hand to hand combat with the defenders.”

Wounded in 1917, he soon returned to the front but was shot by snipers on April 13th, 1918 and is buried at Outtersteene, West of Lille.

Clevedon Salerooms contacted the Sheffield museum service prior to the auction, who contacted the Yorks and Lancaster Regimental Museum. Despite fierce bidding by many other bidders the collection sold for £6,950 and Toby is delighted to report that the collection is going home so that it can be displayed by the Museums of Sheffield and the Yorks and Lancaster regiment.

Some gems from previous

Specialist Jewellery Sales

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE ANTIQUE VALUATION DAYS

£19,600 £3,550

4 5 6 August 9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary

£5,150

£4,900

£4,600

Free Jewellery, Silver & Watch

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

Valuation Day At the Salerooms Tuesday 12th August 10am – 4pm

Next Specialist Sale Thursday 4th September MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 21

Farming section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:35

Page 22

MENDIP TIMES

Tony’s birthday gift

Celebrations – and countryside aromas

TONY Dibble celebrated his 75th birthday in an orchard at Thatchers with a jazz band and more than 150 family and friends – and raised more than £1,500 for Weston HospiceCare.

Tony, who still drives coaches, restores vintage tractors and is well known in the local farming community. He said: “The hospice have cared so kindly for several friends in the past few years that I wanted to acknowledge and celebrate their incredible work whilst enjoying my friends and family.”

FORESTER GATES 3ft–14ft

WIDE RANGE OF GATE FITTINGS

POST AND RAIL FENCING

Overlap panels in stock 3ft to 6ft Wooden posts in stock 3 x 3 6ft & 8ft 4 x 4 8ft

STAKES

Agricised machine rounded – 3.5” 5ft 6” Agricised machine rounded strainer – 5” 7ft Tanalised stakes – 3-4” 5ft 6” & 3-4” 6ft Creosoted – 3-4” 5ft 6” & 3-4” 6ft Larger range available in stock.

Please ring for a competitive quote!

PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

LET me begin with a couple of anniversaries. The Somerset Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs is celebrating its 80th year. There has been a dinner and a garden party already where older farmers and the younger ones have been able to meet, chat and reminisce.

With MARY Memories of competitions won and lost JAMES MBE and the great times we all had. The YFC of course is stronger than ever and Somerset members were honoured to receive a special award from the Prince of Wales for their part in the clean-up operation on the Somerset Levels .

YFC is a truly amazing youth organisation catering for 10 – 26 year olds and you don’t have to be a farmer to join. There are a number of clubs in our area – look at the YFC website for details admin@somersetyfc.org.uk The second event was the 80th birthday celebration for Richard Wear of Butcombe, held at Fernhill Farm on Mendip, home of his son Andy. Richard is a well known sheep farmer specialising in the Ryeland breed for which, over the years, he has won hundreds of trophies and rosettes.

His most prized annual trophy is one he has won 31 times for the best Ryeland flock in the UK. Richard, along with his wife Margaret and family, have exhibited sheep at most agricultural shows across the country. It was a pleasure to watch Andy shearing some Shetland sheep in the old-fashioned way with hand shears or blades as they are called now.

Farmers have taken up the challenge of sustainability, whether it is wind power, water power or solar panels. So what about recycling? It is not really a new idea because farmers have been doing it forever. If you keep livestock then you have poo. It has to be collected, in heaps or in sophisticated towers or lagoons, stored until the right time of year, then spread on the fields to provide nutrients for the crops to grow to feed the livestock – and the cycle starts again.

That’s how we get smells in the countryside now and again.

People need to appreciate a few days’ smell each year helps the farmer produce a year’s worth of produce, be it milk, meat or eggs. Farmers don’t want to upset their neighbours creating smells all the time and they take great care to minimise it (honest!) but when the muck needs to be spread it needs to be spread and nine times out of ten it will smell!

Farming section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:35

Page 23

Shooting boosts south west economy SOUTHFIELD Sporting, the country clothing and gun shop located on a beautiful farm between Nunney and Whatley and only five minutes from Frome, is living proof of a new report which shows shooting is worth the equivalent of £250 million a year to the South West’s economy.

The business is run by husband and wife Robert and Katrina Lintott who have a wide depth of knowledge when it comes to finding the right gun, ammunition, clothing and footwear requirements for the countryside enthusiast. Both keen shots and deer stalkers, they are able to share experiences from the hunting and shooting fields to help anyone with queries.

Southfield Sporting sponsor local shot Pete Dennett, whose results this summer on the local clay and major competition circuit have been phenomenal. With six first places at local level, winning the Somerset All-Round championship and finishing joint third in the AA class at the Clay Shooting Classics, he is a sportsman to watch for the future.

Their gunroom sports an even wider selection of new and second hand rifles, shotguns, air rifles and pistols, with more than 100 guns to choose from. There are now four major brands of cartridges to choose from: RC, Hull Cartridge, Gamebore and Nobel Sport Italia. All types of repairs and servicing can also be undertaken.

Since the 2013 game season, the country clothing department has taken on the major brand Laksen, a Danish hunting clothing company that specialises creating the ultimate technical and quality country clothing for ladies and gentlemen. Alongside this

Boost for farm recovery fund

FARMING

Phunky Pheasant Feather Bow Ties now in stock at Southfield Sporting

major new brand, there is a wide selection from all the leading country clothing manufacturers including; Le Chameau, Schoffel, Really Wild Clothing, Joules, Seeland and many others. There is also a wide choice of rural themed home and gift wear including best quality reindeer hides, beautiful handmade game bird feather lampshades, bow ties and framed feather art.

“The Value of Shooting” – conducted by Cambridge-based Public and Corporate Economic Consultants (PACEC) – is the most comprehensive research into the economic, environmental and social contributions of shooting ever undertaken in the UK. The report reveals that at least 170,000 people in the South West shoot live quarry, clay pigeons or targets and that shooting supports the equivalent of 10,000 full-time jobs in the region and influences the management of around 1.8 million hectares of land.

Full steam ahead for members of the show council as they enjoy a ride on the miniature railway at the showground

LORD Julian Fellowes, the actor, screenwriter and awardwinning creator of Downton Abbey, has taken over as president of the Royal Bath and West Society.

Sharing the duties will be his wife, Lady Emma Fellowes, story editor on the drama which is shortly due to begin a fifth series.

Lord and Lady Fellowes succeed HRH the Duchess of Cornwall. Their first official duty was to receive a cheque on behalf of the Somerset Farm Recovery Fund, set up in the aftermath of the floods and managed by the society.

A total of £5,400 was raised by staff from Agricentre who completed a triathlon event. Agricentre has a store close to the showground at Evercreech. The donation will be match funded by the Somerset Community Foundation.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 23

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 24

MENDIP TIMES

From trench food to a trencherman’s meal

SOLDIERS in World War One seem to have existed on corned beef and hardtack biscuits, washed down with tea.

Fresh fruit and vegetables were scavenged locally when possible; mess kitchens were far from the front line so hot food was rare; food parcels from home arrived infrequently but usually contained With JUNE welcome cake and chocolate, to be shared with MACFARLANE mates.

I don’t think any of us would relish this diet now. Soldiers came home with digestive and dental problems but, strangely, corned beef and dunking biscuits are still part of our food culture.

CORNED BEEF

INGREDIENTS

For the brine 2.5 kg brisket 4 litres water 700g rock salt 300g Demerara sugar 3 bay leaves 10 black peppercorns 2 cloves 2 sprigs thyme 5 cloves garlic 30g Prague Powder No 1

(optional, but available over the internet)

TO FINISH 2 onions, chopped 2 carrots, chopped, 1 rib celery, chopped bouquet garni water to cover

METHOD

“Corned” beef means beef that has been salt-cured in a brine. The corns are the grains of salt used in the cure. It can then be minced finely and preserved with a small amount of gelatine in tins, which account for the oblong shape. But if you halt the process before the tin stage you get something that is really delicious, salt beef. It is much easier to get the curing salt now, on the internet. You don’t have to use it, but it is what makes the beef an appetising pink colour rather than grey.

Simmer all the brine ingredients together for four minutes.

Allow to cool completely. Place meat in a roomy non-metallic container and cover with all the brine. If necessary, weigh down the meat below the liquid with a plate. Cover and refrigerate for seven days, turning meat daily. Remove from brine and soak overnight in fresh water.

Put beef and all the finishing ingredients in a roomy pan and simmer very slowly for about three hours until tender.

Slice across the grain and serve with boiled potatoes and a green vegetable.

Also makes a terrific sandwich with rye bread and English mustard!

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Buttermilk scones

GINGERNUT BISCUITS Everything you read about the original hardtack biscuits sounds awful. These things were so hard they had to be soaked – one recipe says for three hours – before they could be used. No wonder they were good for dunking.

The nicest alternative I can think of is gingernuts!

INGREDIENTS

340g plain flour 1 level tsp bicarbonate of soda 2 level tsps ground ginger 100g butter 160g light brown sugar 4 tbsp golden syrup 1 large egg, beaten

METHOD

Line two baking trays with baking paper. Put all the dry ingredients in a bowl. Add butter and rub in. Stir in sugar, syrup and beaten egg. Incorporate into a dough. Roll out on lightly floured surface and cut out rounds with a biscuit cutter. Arrange on baking trays. Chill for 20mins in fridge.

Bake for 12-15mins until golden. Remove from trays and cool on a rack. Enjoy with a nice cup of tea!

BUTTERMILK SCONES

I was thinking about what food soldiers would have flour ng raisi selfbeen dreaming of in the 225g salt trenches. Something simple tsp 1/4 in cut ed, chill er, butt and sweet from home, I 50g es piec ll thought. In August there sma r suga r caste en gold would have been jam-making 25g ilk erm butt l going on in England. And in 125m milk le who p Mendip, in the dairy county 4tbs of Somerset, there would have been clotted cream and buttermilk. So, buttermilk scones with jam and clotted cream.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Pre-heat oven to 220C. Line a tray with baking paper.

Add the salt to the flour and rub in the butter. Add sugar. Add milk to buttermilk, add most of it to the flour and make a light dough. If the dough is too dry add remainder of milk. Work the dough lightly, just to bring it together. Roll out gently on a lightly floured surface. Cut out rounds with a scone cutter.

Place on baking tray and bake for 10-12 minutes until risen and golden. Cool on a wire rack and then (this is the best bit!) serve with home made jam and clotted cream. Still slightly warm from the oven is best!

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 25

BEAH

FOOD & DRINK Country shopping at its best

English & Mediterranean Restaurant, Wells

New a la carte menu

North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW

(including authentic Moroccan tagines)

New breakfast & lunch menus 2 course £10 lunch menu (Monday – Saturday) 2 course £12 dinner menu (Monday – Thursday)

MEAT SUPPLIED FROM OUR OWN FARM

Planning a party?

Our upstairs ‘chapel’ function room is ideal for private parties from 20 – 60 Summer buffet menu available Christmas Party Menus coming soon

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

CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH US! IT’S BARBECUE TIME! COME AND SEE WHAT WE HAVE ON OFFER!

Tasty Cheddar strawberries and our own cream!

NEW MANAGEMENT NEW MENU Open Monday to Saturday offering lunch from 12-2pm and dinner from 6-9pm with Sunday lunch on offer from 12 until its all gone usually around 5pm. B&B from £65. As far as possible all of our ingredients as far as possible are from local small producers.

North Road, Timsbury BA2 0JJ Telephone: 01761 479398 www.sevenstars-timsbury.co.uk

Enjoy a good Sunday roast

Emma Bridgewater 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 • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 25

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 26

MENDIP TIMES

Market forces

RETIREMENT was exciting! I went on holiday. I used my free bus pass. I read some books and caught up with friends. Next I thought about how to use my time in a way I would enjoy.

I knew that I had good cooking skills. I was interested in healthy food and wanted to do something useful in my local community. A couple of months later I decided to join my local country market as one of their cooks.

Country Markets is a national organisation, with over 350 in total, about 20 of which are based in Somerset. Each one is run as a co-operative, in which local people sell their own home-made produce to local people.

Market producers pay a commission on what they are able to sell which covers running costs such as rent, insurance and publicity. The important thing for me has always been that we work together as a team selling and promoting all the goods on offer.

This ranges from jewellery, soft fruit, birthday cards, garden plants, jams and chutneys, cakes, eggs, vegetables, honey or baby clothes to name but a few! Guidelines and standards are in place for new members and the quality of goods on sale is something we are justly proud of.

When I filled in my application form and handed over my 5p membership fee I was impressed to see the age categories were 16-75 years, 76-80 years and 81years plus. Age discrimination was obviously not an issue!

THE Travelling through, QUEEN walking local trails, or ADELAIDE living in the village, if BLAGDON

01761 463926

the doors are open – come in and enjoy what Blagdon’s little country pub has to offer.

GOOD FOOD, LAGER, ALES AND LOCAL CIDER

GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS AVAILABLE

PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Margaret (left) serves another customer

There is no doubt that for older people there are many benefits over and above earning a little extra money and we do indeed have several ‘81 plus’ in our market. Companionship and social contact with customers can be heartening for those living alone.

Making and selling your own handiwork is always very gratifying because you know your work is appreciated and I have found that making things regularly helps develops your skills. When I became market secretary I had to improve my computer skills, which has been very useful to me.

But country markets are not just for us pensioners - we have quite a few younger people who have joined us. We enjoy their company and their new ideas and talents. Nowadays many people want to live in a more sustainable way and are actively looking for greener alternatives to mass-produced food and goods.

Those who choose to grow their own vegetables may be looking for a place to sell any surplus. Others may think of selling their home-baking or hand-made items and country markets will offer help and support as well as being a really good venue to try out what is successful.

I have no doubts about my original decision to join up; on a personal level I have gained a lot and made many new friends. I think our markets have a great deal to offer to producers and customers old and young and that they fully deserve to be better known. After all, what else could you join for 5p and have so much in return?

Margaret Bond, Frome Country Market secretary Details: wwwcountry-market.co.uk or wwwsomersetcountrymarkets.co.uk

The Carpenters Tavern

New evening events at e Carpenters Tavern Monday night is pasta night with a help yourself salad bar, a choice of pastas and sauces and garlic bread for only £7.95 Tuesday night is curry night with an all you can eat buffet of starters, mains and of course all the sides of dips, poppadoms and naan bread for £10 per person.

Watch out for our beer and cider festival August Bank Holiday weekend, with real ales and ciders, as well as afternoon BBQ and entertainment running throughout the weekend.

For restaurant bookings please call 0117 964 6423 Wells Road, Dundry, BS41 8NE

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 27

FOOD & DRINK

Wells takes gold in Taste Of The West awards

WELLS Farmers’ Market has won Gold from the Taste of the West judges, who described it as “a perfect mix of tradition and quality”.

The judges recognised and applauded the emphasis on local provenance, the extensive range of produce available and the freshness and exceptionally high quality of the goods on offer. The feedback report noted: “From each stall, whether bread, cheeses, meats, pies, pastas, jams, ready meals, fruit or veg, you get the impression that it is all freshly produced and looks healthy and enticing (not a limp lettuce in sight).”

The producers were found by the judges to be, “receptive and attentive” to customers and keen to convey their passion for their products. The Market Square itself was described as spotless and the location stunning with the Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace looming in the background.

The judges also praised the location of the market in a traditional market square with no traffic and lovely seating by a very good coffee stall. In addition, they felt that the farmers’ market benefits from being part of a larger general market and next to the plant and craft market in the Town Hall saying: “There is something for everyone at Wells Market.”

The market is held every Wednesday.

AUGUST 2014 DATES

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

Saturday 2nd Axbridge & Midsomer Norton Sunday 3rd SFM@ The Frome Independent (10am-3pm)* Saturday 9th Frome & Keynsham Saturday 16th Crewkerne Saturday 23rd Glastonbury & Yeovil (9am-2pm)* Friday 29th

Burnham-on-Sea

follow us @SFMMarkets For more information phone 01373 814646 or visit www.SomersetFarmersMarkets.co.uk

THE RED LION

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

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

01275 333042

www.redlionbishopsutton.co.uk

Food is now being served all through the week and at weekends Lunchtime Promotion – Monday to Thursday Free Dessert or Coffee with every Main Course

Main Course – Pub Classics (examples) Walsh’s Ham, Egg & Chips Beer Battered Fish & Chips Homemade Pie of the Day Other fantastic homemade dishes, including Vegetarian options and other lighter bites

A choice of real ales, ciders and quality wines

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

NEW OPENING HOURS! Monday to Thursday 12 noon – 2.30pm and 4.30pm ‘till close – Friday, Saturday and Sunday – open all day MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 27

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 28

MENDIP TIMES

Living above the coffee shop

MANDY Tucker and Pete Cumming knew they had found the ideal location for their dream of opening an independent coffee shop in Wells – their own home.

The couple had been living in the late 18th Century house alongside the Town Hall for three years when they decided the time was right to start their new venture.

The Square Edge Café – just a few yards down from Ask in the Market Place – is certainly different with a distinctly retro and vintage feel, including the music from a quirky jukebox. What is more, everything – from the furniture to ornaments – is for sale!

Mandy, a former nurse and Pete, who still works two days a week as a transport manager, Pete at the counter which cost just £20 to build! live above the café,

Independent Coffee Shop in Wells Funky Teas and Seasonal Coffee Home-Cooked Food Great atmosphere Friendly dogs welcome in our courtyard Outside covered area Retro/Vintage furniture and Music (all furniture and objects are for sale) Open 8am-5.30pm Monday-Saturday Find us on Trip Advisor

0 17 4 9 6 7 11 6 6

2 T o w n H a l l B u i l d i n g s , We l l s B A 5 1 S E coffee@square-edgecafe.co.uk PAGE 28 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Covered seating outside offers a relaxed place in which to chat

which also offers a dog-friendly courtyard and covered seating area. A “friendly” ghost is also said to occupy the premises, which once housed the eating room for prisoners being held in the jail in the town hall. The main room features two massive fireplaces side-by-side.

The couple are proud of their unique wood-roasted coffees and unusual teas while the hot chocolate is becoming famous.

Their home-cooked food is locally-sourced and free range where possible and Mandy bakes all the cakes.

Pete is also a former antiques dealer which is one of the reasons for the vintage feel and the couple are always on the lookout for more items as long as they are genuine; there are even plans for a vintage pop-up shop in the near future. Mandy and Pete are also hoping to extend their opening hours.

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 29

GARDEN FOOD

Fish mint leaves

THIS is a recent discovery of mine, though apparently ornamental varieties are fairly well known to pond gardeners.

Houttuynia cordata is a trailing and spreading moisture-loving plant native to Asia, well-suited to a pond edge in full sun or part shade.

With JAKE It has an aroma which has been likened WHITSON to fish (hence the name ‘fish mint’) but don’t let that put you off – I find the aroma much more like oranges, or coriander. It is a popular herb across Asia where it is especially prized for adding to spring rolls.

The leaves have succulent texture and are slightly astringent and useful wherever you would use coriander – though being perennial, it is always to hand and needs no maintenance.

Fresh spring rolls are a revelation if you’ve only ever had the deep-fried ones we are used to in this country – instead they are soft, cold, aromatic salad-y concoctions great as a starter on a hot summer’s evening.

To make them first get together a some or all of the following together – fresh fish mint leaves, basil leaves, Cos lettuce leaves, a little cold cooked minced pork, bean sprouts and cooked vermicelli noodles.

Soak rice paper spring roll wrappers (available from any good Asian grocer) in hot water for 30 seconds or so (until soft and pliable) and then stuff with a mixture of the above ingredients, rolling them up as you would a normal (fried) spring roll.

As an optional extra, deep fry some finely sliced onion until crispy and brown and then scatter over the rolls. Serve with a dipping sauce made by mixing together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp lime juice and a teaspoon each of finely chopped chilli and garlic.

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

If you can’t wait for the sloes

VERY exciting this, I have been waiting a long time to share this wild food with you and now the time has come. This conifer is one of the few native pines to this fair land and whilst a very old travelogue once described it as being present on the Mendip Hills, I have yet to find it.

With ADRIAN And so on a recent trip to Wiltshire, I BOOTS discovered a great many growing, at which point I became suitably over-excited. Juniper is most famous for its berries (actually they are miniature pine cones) which produce an oil, imparting the distinctive flavour to gin.

The word gin originates from the French word for Juniper which is ‘Genévrier’ but has a rather unfortunate local Somerset name (too coarse to be repeated here I’m afraid) but pretty much amounts to the same as the more famous saying ‘mothers’ ruin’.

Juniper (Juniperus communis) is an evergreen, somewhat sprawling tree, growing to 3.5m. The leaves or needles are small, very prickly and come in threes.

The berries, sorry cones, are at first green, then beginning to ripen, finally go blue-black. You often see all these stages at once on the tree. Look for them on chalk downs or limestone hills (if you know where they are on the Mendips, please let me know).

A favourite way of eating Juniper berries (okay, I’ve spent all my life calling them berries so I’m not going to change now) is as part of a dry rub for venison or pork consisting of salt, pepper, crushed Juniper berries and a mixture of herbs. However, it has long been known that they also enhance the flavour of gin itself.

So over the years I have experimented with various options and have arrived at something that is rather good. I decided this intensified drink needed a special name but the best I came up with was ‘Gin plus juniper berries with a hint of herbs’ which was rubbish but fortunately my very good Italian friend Marco said it best: ‘Ginepro’ which means, wait for it – Juniper. And he thinks it’s better than most Grappa he has tried too, which is a real compliment!

This recipe is similar to that of sloe gin eg sloes, sugar and gin but you only need a dozen or so berries to a small bottle of gin and only add a little sugar, not too much as you want to retain that slightly bitter edge. Then the secret ingredient: a few fresh bay leaves which give it colour and a mild spiciness.

There you have it, a wonderfully enriched gin, which is great as a digestive after a meal. You do have to leave it for a while for the flavour and colour to mature but it can be made any time of the year and so is perfect for those who can’t wait for the sloes.

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

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 29

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 30

MENDIP TIMES

Burger topping festivities

Beer, cider, music – Rotarians are at it again!

Real ale and cider fans at last year’s festival

BRITISH singer-songwriter Rita Ora gave local butcher Jon Thorner’s burgers the seal of approval, at Glastonbury Festival.

The number one chart topping pop star visited the steak burger stall with her entourage and enjoyed a round of cheeseburgers. The visit had the staff in high spirits and the celebrity singer indulged them by having selfies and group photos with the Jon Thorner’s team.

The local butchers which is based in Pylle, near Shepton Mallet has been serving up award winning burgers at Glastonbury Festival for several years. They are also the main meat suppliers to the numerous food stands and catering teams.

Butcher manager, Sam King, said “Glastonbury is such a fantastic and unique event – you never know who you’re going to meet. Rita was a really good sport letting us all have photos taken with her.”

DETAILS are being finalised for this year’s Wessex Beer Festival in Chilcompton which once again promises a weekend for all tastes.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Somer Valley, the charity event is now firmly established on the calendar with its range of around 60 beers and ciders, live music, children’s entertainment and more.

This year’s festival will again be held at the Court Hotel, opening on Friday, September 5th from 6pm-12pm and running from 12noon until midnight on Saturday, September 6th.

This year’s beers are being themed as they will all come from brewers in Kent, ranging from really light beers to very dark stouts. There also is a full programme of live music. The club is still looking for bands or singers interested in playing on the Saturday of the festival. Anyone interested should ring Martin Bown on: 07971 173809.

For more information and to buy tickets in advance, visit: www.wessexbeerfestival.co.uk

Thatchers meet Thatchers

A NEW meeting room currently being built at Thatchers Cider in Sandford has been designed to showcase sustainable construction techniques, so the cider maker asked Somerset company, Dunbar and Bunce, to install a traditional thatched roof.

PAGE 30 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 31

FOOD & DRINK

Food now available seven days a week

THE landlord of the Red Lion, Bishop Sutton, Duncan Ferguson, and award winning chef, Scott Lucas, are offering a lunchtime promotion on Mondays to Thursdays.

With every main course, customers will get a free dessert or coffee. Main courses include pub classics like, Walsh’s ham egg and chips, beer battered fish and chips, home-made pie of the day, along with other fantastic home-made dishes, including vegetarian options and other light bites.

Chef Scott Lucas (left) and landlord Duncan Ferguson

Since taking over in January, Duncan and Scott have made a very good impression in the Chew Valley delivering excellent restaurant standard food at reasonable pub prices. They also stock a range of quality wines, beers and ciders.

Since recruiting more staff, the pub is now open and serving food every lunchtime and every evening.

At this time of the year, customers can enjoy the pub’s extensive gardens, while in the winter there’s a real log fire to keep you warm.

For further information take a look at the pub’s website www.redlionbishopsutton.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 31

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 32

MENDIP TIMES

Indulge at Ston Easton Park

STON Easton Park holds the culinary crown when it comes to serving awardwinning cuisine in the most exquisite surroundings. The Sorrel Restaurant, open every day to non-residents and hotel guests, is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Bath, attracting diners from far and wide for special occasions, family celebrations and gourmet dining experiences.

As well as the exquisite Georgian oakpanelled Sorrel Restaurant with

PAGE 32 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

spectacular views over the Humphrey Repton landscaped gardens, there are a number of private dining rooms available for intimate celebrations as well as larger dinner parties.

Head Chef, Daniel Moon is passionate about developing menus that use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients; Daniel works closely with local suppliers and even more closely with the hotel garden team, sourcing almost 60% of the fresh produce used in the menus from the hotels kitchen

gardens.

To complement the award-winning cuisine, the hotel’s cellars are famed for their selection of fine wines, vintages and extensive range of New World and table wines.

Not only does the hotel provide a fine dining experience you can also pay a visit to Ston Easton Park for a Quintessentially English Afternoon Tea, a beautiful British way to spend a leisurely afternoon with friends and family.

Food & Drink section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:41

Page 33

FOOD & DRINK Sample Sunday Lunch Menu STARTERS

Tomato & Basil Soup with Homemade Bread Chicken Liver Parfait with, Red Onion Chutney & Granary Toast Bowlish House Prawn & Salmon Gravlax Cocktail Deep Fried Goat’s Cheese Crotin MAIN COURSE

Join us for Sunday Lunch and enjoy our beautiful garden

Roast Pork served with Roast Potatoes & Spiced Apple Compote Roast Leg of Lamb with Roast Potatoes & Red Wine Sauce Fillet of Atlantic Cod with a Herb Crust, Creamed Potatoes, & White Wine Sauce Goat’s Cheese and Spinach Risotto with Toasted Pine Nuts 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

Sticky Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce Iced Banana Parfait with a Wild Berry Compote Warm Cherry Bakewell Tart with Ice Cream Selection of Westcountry Cheeses, Grapes, Homemade Chutney and Biscuits (+£5)

Two Courses £13.50 • Three Courses £15.95 All our ingredients are sourced as locally as possible and as far as we know, do not contain anything genetically modified, but may contain traces of nuts.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 33

News page 34:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:44

Page 1

MENDIP TIMES

Digging in for school

Advice bureau says goodbye to Joan

A DEDICATED group of parent volunteers from Kilmersdon Church of England VA Primary School donned wellies and aprons for the Glastonbury Festival to raise money for the school PTA. Jacket and Jill’s (named after Jack and Jill hill that the school sits on), have been selling jacket potatoes at Glastonbury for over 15 years, raising funds for school projects. Their efforts this year raised £3,000 for forest school lessons.

BOARD members, staff volunteers and guests said farewell to Joan Saddington, chief executive officer of Sedgemoor Citizens Advice Bureau, at the organisation’s annual meeting.

Chair of the Board, Mike Lyddon, led tributes to the inspiring leadership that Joan provided during her seven years in the post.

Over the past year, more than 5,000 clients were helped with problems that included debt, Joan Saddington employment, poverty, housing and homelessness, benefit issues, consumer matters and many others.

The bureau has also increased commitment to existing outreach work in Highbridge, Burnham and Cheddar.

The new CEO is Amy Jones, who will take up the post in August.

Strawberry Line on track for expansion THE Strawberry Line Society is launching a new website as it steps up its campaign to extend the existing route, which runs from Yatton to Cheddar, with other smaller sections around Wells.

It hopes to extend the route west to Clevedon and east as far as Shepton Mallet, with other spurs running off it, along connecting paths to nearby villages and towns.

The Strawberry Line Society (SLS), formerly the Cheddar Valley Railway Walk Society, started the ball rolling in 1978 when they persuaded North Somerset Council to buy much of the dismantled railway line between Yatton and Axbridge and lease it to the society as a walk and nature reserve. The society later became a registered charity and extended the railway path to Cheddar.

Sustrans, the national cycling charity, is closely involved with the Strawberry Line project and sees this 30-mile MidSomerset route as a valuable asset in their country-wide network of cycle paths.

PAGE 34 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

NEWS

Their vision is to see a circular traffic-free route – the Avon-Mendip Ring – connecting Bristol, Yatton, Cheddar, Wells, Shepton Mallet, Radstock, Bath, and Bristol.

Some sections of the route have already been completed (including the recently opened Two Tunnels Way), and the Strawberry Line would provide a crucial missing link.

Details: www.thestrawberryline.org.uk

Haskins ad:Layout 1

24/7/14

12:29

Page 1

Business section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:46

Page 36

MENDIP TIMES

College wins special award

Pictured (l to r) Linda Burlison and Dr Paul Phillips, Weston College, Katharine Finn and Matthew Hammond, PwC

Mendip Times needs you!

Due to continuing expansion, we have a vacancy for an experienced Sales Executive with a good telephone manner and proven computer skills

Send details to: enquiries@mendiptimes.co.uk

ECATCHER MOL

ECATCHER MOL Now does wasps

NO WASP NO STING

Telephone 01761 451384 PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

WESTON College has been given a special award at the West of England Business Awards. Normally only two awards are given – for businesses above and below a turnover of £25 million.

This year the judges decided to break with tradition and honour Weston College with a community award. Nick Morgan and Tracey Bentham, from sponsors PwC said: “After reading the fantastic turnaround story of Weston College, which can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of Dr Paul Phillips and his team, we decided to give them this award.

“They have turned the college around from underachieving to being ‘Outstanding’ rated by Ofsted.”

In its submission to the judges, Weston College described its journey from a small, underachieving establishment at the beginning of the 2000s to one of the UK’s most successful and innovative colleges. In December 2013 Ofsted graded the College as Outstanding in all of the four main categories.

The ceremony was attended by Dr Paul Phillips, Weston College Principal and Chief Executive, and Linda Burlison, Assistant Principal (Systems and Resources).

Dr Phillips said: “It was wonderful to be honoured in this special way and it confirms Weston College’s position as the outstanding education provider in the West of England.

It also reflects the commitment we make to the communities we serve in North Somerset and beyond.”

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

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

www.nepinsri-travel.co.uk

Find us on Facebook – Nep In Sri Travel Ltd SPECIALISING IN PHOTOGRAPHIC, WILDLIFE, BIRD WATCHING, WALKING, CYCLING & CULTURE HOLIDAYS FOR INDEPENDENT TRAVELLERS & GROUPS

24/7/14

13:46

Page 37

Local, professional printing service

BUSINESS

Photo by Ignyte Limited, Radstock.

Business section:Layout 1

GENI Printing, based in The Chew Valley, prides itself in providing a high quality design, print and publishing service. Ever conscious of competition, Geni makes every effort in keeping prices affordable.

They are accredited members of The British Association for Printing & Communication (UK) and Chew Valley Chamber of Commerce. They are also the only printers in The Guild of Professional Wedding Services and are annually elected, vetted and approved to be part of this prestigious association. Geni offers an excellent bespoke wedding service.

Geni Printing, based in Chew Stoke, established for many years, has many personal and business customers, the majority of whom come from the West Country, including, Bristol, Bath and the Mendips. Geni also specialises in printing and publishing books for schools throughout the UK. ‘State of the art’ Konica Minolta digital colour presses ensure a 1200 dpi, high resolution print quality. Geni has a comprehensive array of finishing machinery which includes laminators, binders, creasers, guillotines, folders etc.

Geni offers a wide range of various stocks, including silk, textured, linen, satin, pinstripe, hammer, pearlescent and parchment papers and boards. All these can be supplied at reasonable cost and are certainly cheaper than those found on the average High Street. If not in stock, anything unusual can be ordered, normally arriving the next day, supplied by one of four major national companies.

Some of their unusual jobs include printing personalised invitations for the Banksy Exhibition at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, London Taximeter Instruction Booklets and Fishing Permits for Loch Ness!

Ironically, many ‘would be’ customers pass their premises on their way to town and city hubs for printing services every day, not realising that they have a very high quality printing provider on their doorstep.

Geni is always happy to freely advise on printing matters, without customers feeling obliged to purchase.

For a friendly, professional and excellent service, contact Geni Printing on 01275 333895 or visit their website www.geniprinting.co.uk. You won’t be disappointed!

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 37

Business section:Layout 1

24/7/14

MENDIP TIMES

13:46

Page 38

Get creative – funding up to £10,000 is available

A NEW Creatives Club for Mendip will be launched in Wells on Thursday, July 31st.

The club is an opportunity to meet with other artists and creatives, share ideas, experience and contacts. Creative Somerset CIC is coordinating the development of Creatives Clubs in each district of the county with funding from the Somerset County Council’s Creative Industries Development Fund.

The Mendip club will be held at the Mendip Hub, above Mid Somerset Newspapers on Southover from 6-8pm.

Meanwhile businesses and organisations are being invited to bid for grants of between £2,000 and £10,000 from the development fund to finance projects which will boost the creative economy. Last year 16 projects benefitted. The deadline for applications for 2014 is Monday, August 11th with successful applicants being informed from September onwards.

For further information about the Creative Industries Fund, contact Paul Chadwick or John Carter on 01823 358060/01823 355664 or by email at: pchadwick@somerset.gov.uk or jdcarter@somerset.gov.uk

To secure your invitation to the Mendip Creatives Club, visit: www.mendiphub.org/whats_on

PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Business section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:46

Page 39

BUSINESS

New cruises from Avonmouth

A NEW and wide selection of cruises has been announced, departing directly from Avonmouth. The cruises, in 2015, will be on a new ship to the port, the MV Azores. The programme will offer ten different itineraries from January through to June next year.

Local travel agent Miles Morgan is delighted, saying: “This is excellent news for holidaymakers in the local area and shows the success of the port as a whole. The cruise for the Total Solar Eclipse will be a sell out in days.”

He said the other stand-out departure for those with the time is a 30 night cruise to the West Indies: “This is a cruise that has never been available from Bristol and at just over £50 a day it is amazing value – you could argue it is cheaper than staying at home in the winter and heating your own house!”

The new ship, the MV Azores, replaces the MV Discovery that has operated from Bristol for the past two years. It is another smaller cruise ship by modern standards, carrying just under 600 passengers, but offers a true cruise experience with teak decks and an intimate feel. Having undergone a multi-million pound internal refit recently the ship will offer a more modern feel than the Discovery.

Where am I now?

Where do I want to be?

How do I get there?

What’s stopping me?

Your financial questions answered Probusiness Ltd, Business Accountants and Advisers, St. Lawrence Lodge, 37 Chamberlain Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2PQ T: 01749 677989 F: 01749 672651 E: mail@probusinessuk.com W: www.probusinessuk.com MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 39

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:48

Page 30

MENDIP TIMES

Paulton Party in the Park

Stardust Majorettes enterntained the crowd

Chewton Mendip Fete

The barbecue was busy

Chewton Mendip School folk dancing team Kathy Mayley and Ruth Batchelor from Holy Trinity Church

Paulton Rovers netball team PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Anyone for Pimms? Julia Howlett and Cathy Lee

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:48

Page 31

EVENTS

Wedmore Street Fair

Polly Costello, Jackie Reeves and Nicki Maguire, Wedmore First School PTA The Borough was packed with people Brenda Hamblin and Marilyn Biggs, Somerset Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers

Amy Purcell and Hannah Tipping

Taila Halford, Issy Pearce and Hannah Martyn were raising funds for a school project in India

Melanie Corbett from Cross sold cakes in aid of Shipham Guides

Scouts Charlie Ford and Ollie Nicholls raised funds for the Scouts' World Jamboree MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 41

Axbridge feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:55

Page 42

MENDIP TIMES

Attention to detail brings its reward

THE Strawberry Line B and B in Axbridge has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor, after receiving glowing reports from guests about the high standard of its two guest suites, which both overlook Cheddar Reservoir, and the range and quality of its food and service.

John and Sue Albone, who were Mayor and Mayoress of Axbridge last year, started the business five years ago, catering for business and holiday visitors – and the occasional honeymoon couple.

Both rooms are en-suite with king-size beds, private lobby, wi-fi, TV/DVD and fridges. The Garden Room Suite opens on to its own patio area, while the Mendip View Suite has stunning views across the reservoir down towards Glastonbury.

There’s a choice of continental or cooked breakfasts, all Fair Trade and sourced locally wherever possible, with Gluten-free, vegetarian and children’s options. Sue makes her own fresh fruit salad every day including strawberries from Cheddar and raspberries from the garden.

She said: “Our backgrounds were both in family businesses where you learn that without a customer you haven’t got a job, so customer service is obviously so important to us, making sure we take care of every detail.”

A glance at the rave reviews on Trip Advisor – “Perfect stay”, “Relaxing”, “Home from Home”, “Lovely” – are a measure of their success.

Details: www.strawberrylinebedandbreakfast.co.uk or phone 01934 732573 for availability.

Showtime in Axbridge

The cafe had a pirate theme last year

AXBRIDGE Chamber of Commerce will again be holding the Somerset Showcase in Axbridge on the Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday August 23rd. This fun-packed day is free to enter and there will be plenty of free car parking.

There will be stalls selling locally produced arts and crafts, and local speciality foods, plus traditional entertainment for all ages throughout the day. Music will include a brass band, bell ringers, a recorder group and their own Pied Piper of Axbridge, to whisk the kids off to the Punch and Judy show (accompanied by their parents).

They will also have their popular themed café and bar in the Town Hall, as well as children’s rides and a street market, plus much more. The evening entertainment will start at 7.30 with a BBQ and bar, with a live band and fire show in the Square.

Details: If you wish to have a stall at the Craft Market, please contact Liz Scott at moorlandfm@btinternet.com

Luxury B & B Guest Accommodation Spacious and stylish guest suites with en-suite bathrooms and outstanding views across the Cheddar Reservoir and beyond.

Telephone: 01934 732573 • www.strawberrylinebedandbreakfast.co.uk • email: strawberrylineb-b@tiscali.co.uk PAGE 42 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Axbridge feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:56

Page 43

FOCUS ON AXBRIDGE

Caring for the environment Ancient spring walls to be restored

THE spring at the side of Les and Maggie Stanley’s house had provided the water supply for Axbridge for centuries. In the 16th century the lane leading up to their house was once called Fishpond Lane, because of the fish kept in the pond formed by the spring.

That all changed on December 23rd, 2012, when a collapsed wall caused a wave that washed away gardens and mature trees after three months of torrential rain.

Les said: “We were at a party when were informed that our pond walls had collapsed and there was a risk that the whole garden would subside. When we arrived home we were amazed to see our neighbour’s garden in the pond and the fire brigade and police attending the scene. The effect of the wall’s collapse was like a tsunami, with debris from the wall washed into the garage.”

The insurers have now agreed a massive repair bill to reinstate a feature that is in the town’s conservation area.

Work was due to commence on July 28th.

Les, who runs his own company, PACE UK, making LED products, said: “Normally the spring water flowing into the pond is crystal clear and drinkable. After heavy rain it takes about 24 hours for the water to filter through the Mendips and appear here and on into the old medieval wells by the church.

“In 14 years we’d never seen anything like this – it was an exceptional event, considering the walls have been there for 600 years!”

As it used to look

ACUTABOVE offer a warm welcome to their exclusive AVEDA hair salon in Axbridge. The salon can be found in the high street, right next to the hunting lodge and has been sympathetically designed in the listed building achieving a look of elegance and tranquility and has a very welcoming atmosphere.

As an Aveda salon the whole business revolves around caring for the world we live in -recycling everything from the cardboard boxes the deliveries arrive in to the empty tubes of colour. Even micro fibre towels have been especially chosen to eliminate the use of a tumble dryer.

Discover the properties of up to 99% naturally derived ingredients – Aveda believe

that what you put onto your body should be as healthy and natural as what you put into it. With many years of experience as both salon owners and stylists Sarah, Tom, Sheila and Holly strive to give you the best care, service and creativity and look forward to meeting you soon.

After the flood

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 43

Axbridge feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:56

Page 44

MENDIP TIMES

Feeling stressed?

STRESS doesn’t go away just because it’s the summer! Busy lives continue whilst also trying to fit in fun in the sun.

Stress can show itself in different ways such as headaches, as well as people recognising stress from worrying more and sleeping less. At its worst, stress and anxiety can affect physical conditions such as back pain and

irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Dee Holbourne holds a weekly acupuncture clinic at Axbridge Medical Practice. She said: “I treat people with a variety of conditions and I have a particular interest in helping people with stress and other emotional issues.”

Dee offers free 15 minute telephone consultations to discuss how acupuncture can help. She said: “Some people turn to acupuncture for assistance with a specific symptom or condition, while others choose to have treatment to help maintain good health, as a preventive measure, or simply to improve their general sense of wellbeing.”

Details: You can contact Dee on 079 7799 3388

PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2013

Axbridge remembers

AXBRIDGE, famous for its famous ten-yearly pageant, put on a community event to recall life in the town at the outbreak of the 1st World War. Axbridge Community Theatre, with artistic director, John Bailey, showed how the outbreak of war affected the town.

Dozens of people took part, watched by hundreds more.

Axbridge feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:56

Page 45

Market leaders

ENABLE Promotional Marketing have 21 years of experience working with major companies around the world and say no other service provider has the same wealth and depth of experience.

It says: “Promotions today, whether digital or traditional, are more Managing Director Neil Barnes difficult to control, are global and long lasting (thus potentially generating adverse outcomes). If anybody who is not versed in the principles of Operational Management is assigned these duties, they are going to make mistakes, because they simply don’t have the knowledge on how to implement modern promotions.”

The company has developed a nine-point checklist to achieve success: planning, developing, documenting, testing, implementing, controlling, managing, auditing and evaluating.

It says clients can turn risk into opportunity by using their services.

Enable says they achieve great things through great people – and never forget it! That’s why they provide the ideal work environment.

Details: www.enablepm.com

FOCUS ON AXBRIDGE

Campaign moves on

THE Coffin Lane Campaign for a safe pedestrian and cycle route from Axbridge to Cross raised £162 with its sponsored walk in June.

Discussions have now started with the county council about the possibility of a new pedestrian refuge island south of the notorious Cross Lane crossroads, so that people can cross the A38 more safely. Campaign co-ordinator, Tess Gill, said: “Something must be done urgently. The heavy traffic is bound to get even worse.”

Stunning views

THE Parsonage is a superbly situated charming Victorian parsonage, nestling on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills, overlooking the famous Somerset Levels.

It’s within a few minutes walk of the medieval town of Axbridge, with many scenic walks right on the doorstep. All of its bedrooms are tastefully furnished with en-suite facilities, televisions and hospitality trays and it offers guests a full English breakfast. There’s also ample private parking.

Parsonage Lane, Cheddar Road, Axbridge, Somerset BS26 2DN Tel: 01934 733078 Accommodation www.the-parsonage-axbridge.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2013 • PAGE 45

Charity section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:57

Page 46

MENDIP TIMES

Lions lend a hand

Cyclists gather for Strawberry Jam

FAMILIES, friends and colleagues will hop on their saddles on Sunday, August 10th for Weston Hospicecare’s Strawberry Jam cycle ride. The fundraising event takes in some of the finest scenery in the West Country.

All routes start in Cheddar. The 10-mile route is great for families and follows the historic Strawberry Line. Riders on the 25 and 50 mile routes will follow a former Tour of Britain route that takes in the challenging ascent of Burrington Combe and the hair-raising descent of Cheddar Gorge.

Emma Eyre, aged 35, (pictured) took part with her friend Sam Walkley, aged 27, last year and having had a wonderful day, she has signed up once again with her dad to take on the 25-mile ride. She said: “Sam and I really enjoyed the challenge of cycling the Strawberry Jam. Raising money for this wonderful charity whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery around us made for a great day out and I can’t wait to tackle it again this year!”

Weston Hospicecare is hoping to raise over £8,000.

CHEDDAR Vale Lions Club has bought a specialist standing frame for a pupil at Cheddar First School, who has cerebral palsy. It will help Gabriella, aged six, to take part in normal everyday events in the classroom with her friends and aid her physiotherapy.

RNLI on song

THE Chew Valley branch of the RNLI raised more than £1,000 with its Evening of Sea Shanties at Chew Valley Sailing Club.

It will have a stall at Chew Stoke Harvest Home on September 6th and is now taking bookings for its very popular curry lunch being held on November 7th in Ubley Village Hall.

Details: Keith Williams 01275 332221 keith.williams617@btinternet.com

Rotary welcomes new president

Details: www.thestrawberryjam.org.uk Entry closes on Monday August 4th at 5pm.

Support for food bank

THE Rotary Club of Mendip has promised support for the Cheddar Valley Food Bank, after hearing from committee member Sue Albone, who was presented with a cheque for £100 by rotary president Mike Hiles.

PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

TONY Thurling (left) is the new president of the Rotary Club of Wrington Vale, taking over from John Thatcher. Two former club presidents, Peter Roswell and Ric Canham, have been given Paul Harris Fellowship awards.

Charity section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:57

Page 47

Students support cancer research

A MASSIVE fundraising effort by Weston College students has resulted in a £5,000 donation to Bone Cancer Research.

The annual Charity Cup week saw students and staff from many faculties and the student union competing against each other to raise the most money during a variety of events and activities.

This year’s winner was the Business, Management and IT (BMIT) faculty, which held dressing-up days, a sponsored head shave, cake sales, games, quizzes and collections.

Additional activities around the college included climbing the equivalent distance of Mount Everest, football and netball tournaments and music gigs.

The money was raised in memory of Mary Collard, the 12year-old sister of a Weston College student, who died from the disease.

Celebrity guest

AUTHOR, Jeffrey Archer, will be the guest of Weston HospiceCare at a gala dinner celebrating its 25th anniversary on the Grand Pier in Weston on September 20th.

As well as an after dinner speech from Lord Archer, guests will enjoy casino tables, live music and entertainment and dancing.

Details: www.westonhospicecare.org.uk

Rotarian’s honour

THE highest honour in Rotary, the Paul Harris Fellowship, has been awarded to David Dodgson, a member of Weston Rotary Club since 1973, who was president in 1981, the club’s 60th anniversary year.

Born in Weston in 1932, he was appointed a JP in 1970 and served for 33 years, three years as chairman and was also on the police authority. He was a member and chairman of Weston Round Table, on the board of Broadway Lodge, and has always been a keen supporter of local charities.

He’s pictured (right) receiving the award from Stewart Evans.

Charity is a big hit with festival goers

CHARITIES

Senesi with some of the Alive & Well team and supporters

GLASTONBURY Festival fans had the chance to test their strength and raise money for a charity based near Shepton Mallet.

Alive & Well aims to raise funds to provide drilling rigs which are used to sink wells in Sierra Leone. Based at Stoney Stratton, near Evercreech, the charity has sunk 40 wells since it launched in 2010, giving somewhere in the region of 8,000 people access to clean drinking water.

Sierra Leone MP Senesi Fawunda visited the charity’s stand in the Arcadia area of the festival, where people could put their strength to the test on a fairground-style drilling rig. A flame shot out of the top of the rig and a claxon sounded if people were able to shoot a weight to the top of the machine.

Senesi runs his own charitable organisation and survived the civil war making a dangerous and harrowing journey from Liberia back into Sierra Leone with his family. He had been on a tour of the south west to increase awareness of the situation in Sierra Leone. Amongst the organisations he met was Clifton College in Bristol.

Hard-hitting: the drilling rig in Arcadia

Senesi Fawunda

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 47

Charity section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:57

Page 48

MENDIP TIMES

Fun day for charity

THE Centurion Hotel, near Midsomer Norton, was the venue once again for the annual Time is Precious family fun day.

The charity event was opened by former boy band member and television presenter Dane Bowers.

TiP was launched by Neil and Nicky Halford, of Coleford, in memory of their son Ben. It has raised thousands of pounds to support young patients in hospital and their families.

G TiP’s annual cycle challenge will be held on Sunday, October 12th and their gala charity ball on Saturday, October 25th.

Leah, five, and Liam, four, take a breather on the crazy golf course challenge

Boxing demonstrations on the Knuckle Up training centre stall

Dane with Neil and Nicky and their son Tom, aged two, and Mr Lion, the charity mascot

Dawn Baldwin, Jo Whittock and Sue Maggs, from Timsbury Theatre Group, promoting their forthcoming production of Dick Whittington at the village’s Conygre Hall in December

Human dodgems

For further information, visit: www.timeisprecious.org

PAGE 48 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Charity section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:57

Page 49

Wheels of fortune

Beacons challenge

CHARITIES

The team outside Bishopbrook House, the Wells office of Old Mill

STAFF from the Old Mill Group have raised more than £9,000 for a Somerset-based charity by cycling around all the company’s offices.

A total of 21 riders were joined by Luke Simon, from the School in a Bag charity based near Yeovil, for the attempt which took them from Melksham to Wells, then ontoYeovil, Dorchester and Exeter.

The team set an original target of raising £2,500, increased it to £5,000, then £7,500 which they also beat.

School in a Bag was created to help poor, orphan, vulnerable and disaster-affected children throughout the world. Each bag is filled with stationery, learning resources and eating utensils. It is part of the Piers Simon Appeal, set up in memory of Piers, who was tragically killed in Thailand in December James “Wiggo” Harris – the 2004 in the Indian Ocean sideburns were part of his training Tsunami. for the ride!

The riders arrive at Old Mill in Wells to be greeted by staff

For information, visit: www.schoolinabag.org

Sue Pickles (right) at the trek with her assistant manager Alice Yarr

NAILSEA hairdresser, Sue Pickles, trekked over 59-miles in 24-hours to raise money for St. Peter’s Hospice in Bristol, taking on the Brecon Beacons TrekFest challenge.

She raised £1,200 for the hospice, which cared for her mum, Liz Sheppard, in her final days.

Sue, aged 45, said: “We walked all the way through the night and finished the 59 miles within 24 hours which was a huge achievement. We experienced every kind of weather you can imagine from sunshine to rain to hailstorms.”

Buoyed by success

JUST 12 months after launching an appeal to raise £180,000 towards the cost of a new lifeboat station at Portishead, the local RNLI is celebrating after successfully reaching its original target.

Buoyed by this success, the fundraisers are now looking to raise a further £52,000 which will pay for the volunteer lifeboat crew’s changing facilities.

Building work started in March to build a new lifeboat station at the site of the former Masonic Lodge in Portishead. At present the team operate out of a garage at the local sailing club. In total the RNLI is investing £1.9million in the new station.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 49

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:50

Page 32

MENDIP TIMES

Holcombe Gala

Burrington Fete

Members of the gala committee: Mark O’Brien, Helen Burton, Marie Spear, Sarah Taylor, Marnie Stratford and Trudi Olds

RESIDENTS of Holcombe brought their annual gala day back to life in some style with an afternoon of fun and games on the village playing field.

The event had a fallow year in 2013 whilst the organising committee regrouped but is now back stronger than ever.

Youngsters prepare for an egg and spoon race

Best in show: Daisy, a 15month-old labrador with owner Jen Smith.

Greg ElliottMoustache, from Shepton Mallet Vets, was the guest judge for the dog show PAGE 50 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Cream teas courtesy of (l to r) Norma Grey, Anita Townsend, Nicky Parsons and Liz Green

This Alvis attracted attention

Maypole dancing

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:50

Page 33

EVENTS

Dancers at Doulting A DANCE commemorating the outbreak of World War One was amongst the highlights of this year’s Doulting Village Fete.

The theme – dances to a medley of songs to commemorate World War One – was devised by Emma Hill and Di Tothill, from the Centre School of Dance in Shepton Mallet, and reflected the role played not just by the armed forces, but the nurses at the battlefield hospitals and the families at home.

Dancers use semaphore to spell out some evocative words about the war

A display of judo skills in the main arena

Poppies rise from the earth

Connor makes a splash in the stocks

Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis opened the fete. He is pictured (left) with his former relief herdsman Geoff Marshall MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 51

Crossword page:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:59

Page 1

INTERNET

How to tap (on

a tablet, not on a dance floor!)

LAST month we looked at the mouse, this week it’s general advice on tablets but some of this might not apply to yours, but the principle remains the same.

A tap is a quick strike by the tip of your finger. The lighter and quicker the tap the better – a mere whisper of a tap is best. It takes a bit of getting used to which bit of the finger activates the bit you want – I often activate the letter to the right of the one I want, so aim slightly left.

Double-tapping (two taps by the tip of your finger in quick succession) the Home button on an iPad brings up the open apps, so you can slide them upwards to close them or press and hold on the Home button on a smartphone to swipe them away to close them to save battery life.

Press and hold for 2 seconds on an icon (called a long press) and on some systems the icons will jiggle, some may not, but either way you can then move it to where you want it to be or delete it (drag it into the bin).

Double-tapping an image, map or webpage zooms you in.

Double-tapping again should zoom you back out again.

Alternatively, pinch two fingers together to zoom in and pinch them away from each other to zoom out. Pinch five fingers together to go the Home screen on an iPad. Swipe left or right with 4 fingers to quickly switch between currently running apps.

If the keyboard splits into two halves, and you don’t want it to, just press and hold on the two halves and slide them back together again.

You can buy a stylus pen for a tablet, which many people find helpful. You usually have to hold them fairly upright, but you are much more likely to hit the right bit, although you do have to store the pen somewhere.

TABLET ICONS Back button: Touching the Back navigation button returns to the previous screen. When the on-screen keyboard is in use, the Back button icon changes to a down-arrow icon. Pressing the down-arrow icon hides the on-screen keyboard without returning to the previous screen.

Home button: Touch the Home navigation button to return to the Home screen from any other screen.

Recent apps button: Touch the Recent apps navigation button to view a list of recently-used apps. Scroll through the list and touch an app to open it. To remove an app from the Recent apps list, touch the app and drag it off the edge of the tablet.

Submitted by IT for the Terrified 01934 741751 • www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com Closed for the whole of August – reopens Thursday, 4th September. Call in to one of our Open House sessions to find out more – Thursday, 11th September 10am or Friday, 12th September at 1.30. Workshops and courses start the following week.

We also run a Computer Club+Q&A session 1.30-3.30 Thursday afternoons. Call in for the whole session, or just drop in for a quick word of advice/help/info.

This article is for guidance only, and the opinion of the writer. For more in depth information, please contact us. We offer individual training, at a pace to suit you; a session lasts 2 hours and costs £10. We can cover a range of subjects – including absolute basics; photo management; shopping online; emailing; Word processing, spreadsheets; basic web design; etc. on a range of devices, including Windows XP/Vista/W7/W8: Macs: Tablets: iPads: smartphones.

See our web site 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.

PAGE 52 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

ACROSS 1/1D Two means of transport were wealth producers of sorts (5,5) 4 A good age for our readers (4,5) 9 One earl has changed sex (7) 10 See 22 11 Queuing at Customs? It’s an obligation (4,2,4) 13 See 15 15/13 Tell me whilst we find location of 1 (8,4) 17 Stable door shut but horse scrammed (6) 19 Go from gloaming to sort out evil (6) 20 High speed computing is enormous disaster perhaps (8) 22/10 Do get a round in to appear attractive (4,7) 23 Field where they keep the bull? (6,4) 27 Make some oil earn control of wing (7) 28 Fortynine vehicles queued up in old city (7) 30 Found it’d ceased just as it makes a commitment (9) 31 That’s to say the hard stuff makes for some rough and tumble (5)

DOWN 1 See 1 Across 2 Make neckwear integral part of outfit (3-2) 3 Seasonal sporting score (3) 4 Company fruit definitely expected (4,4) 5 The pointlessness reflected by the Preacher (6) 6 Leg bye timed to produce footprints in the snow (4) 7 Weapon aimed at parts like 27? (3,6) 8 Consume rotten ingredient being ready to ride (7,2) 12 Nervous about Wenlock?

(2,4) 14 Dad’s 1950s painting (3,3) 15 Kept domestic hearths safe?

(4,5) 16 Drunk engineer did his job thoroughly (4-5) 18 Something laid in heather’s worn by horsemen (8) 21 Get her in to find seabird (6) 24/25 Contender possessed of hesitation finding luvvie home for 15,13 (5,5) 26 Specific rock formation hiding little reptile (4) 29 Lad comes up with us Romans (3)

Answers on Page 105

Wildlife page:Layout 1

24/7/14

14:00

Page 1

WILDLIFE

The oystercatcher and the eagle IN the height of summer many of us are drawn to the coast.

A walk along a coastal path, or a visit to the beach, can reveal an exciting array of wildlife, so I always throw a pair of binoculars in my

rucksack.

Having finished breeding, many birds are now on the move and can be seen gathering in small flocks around the coast.

One of my favourites to look and listen, out for is the oystercatcher.

The old name for the Eurasian oystercatcher is “sea pie”, describing both its preferred habitat and its black and white plumage, but the more modern name “oystercatcher” may, in fact, be less appropriate.

Their bill is relatively short for a wading bird, and quite thick and robust. This enables them to crack and prize open molluscs like mussels, which few other birds can do, but they aren’t known to eat oysters. In fact, they can eat a wide range of invertebrates and often specialise in certain types and learn their specialist feeding methods from their parents; some specialising in worms and others in mussels or cockles, for example.

Although primarily associated with coastal areas, they can breed and feed on inland sites such as larger lakes and reservoirs. Oystercatchers have distinctive plumage, with jet black upper parts extending to the neck and head giving way to white underparts on belly and flank.

The bright orange bill and legs are clearly

Oystercatcher and white-tailed eagle

visible from some distance away, but they also have stunning red eyes which can be seen at closer quarters or through a telescope. When in flight they also show a clear white wing stripe.

During the breeding season oystercatchers can be very noisy, often giving off their high-pitched, penetrating whistle and chasing after any potential egg or chick thieves. This tenacious bird knows no limits when defending its brood, even a white-tailed eagle isn’t too formidable a challenge, as can be seen in this picture taken on the Isle of Mull earlier this year.

Studies have shown that oystercatchers are long-lived birds (the oldest so far recorded by the BTO is more than 40 years old) and can remain faithful to breeding territories for up to 20 years. The nest itself consists of a scrape on the ground, usually above the tideline on a pebble beach where their superbly camouflaged eggs and chicks blend

Photography by Chris Sperring

By CHRIS SPERRING MBE

Oystercatcher

perfectly in to their surroundings.

They usually choose sites where there is clear visual aspect all around, so that they can keep a watch out for predators. In some areas they are known for nesting on the edge of footpaths, where they keenly escort walkers through their territory. This may well be a deliberate tactic, as the regular presence of people (whom they are not particularly afraid of) would help keep other predators at bay.

Normally two to three eggs are laid and incubation is carried out by both parents.

When the chicks hatch they are able to walk around almost immediately and they will be fed by both parents until they are fully self-sufficient. The adult-sized juveniles can be distinguished by the paler plumage, paler bill and legs and a white collar around their throat.

Oystercatchers can nest in unusual places, including on flat roofs, and have even been known to lay their eggs in the nests of other birds – known as “dumping” – which is also recorded in eider ducks.

Gulls are often chosen as the host nest, which is interesting as gulls are also one of the oystercatcher’s principal egg thieves. This may be a primitive form of parasitic behaviour similar to that perfected by the cuckoo but, in the case of the oystercatcher, the chicks are less likely to survive being reared by gulls.

By August, most oystercatcher families are returning to the coast and we will start to see the arrival of birds that have nested further north, particularly Scandinavia.

These birds will spend the winter with us, swelling the UK population from around 220,000 to 340,000 birds (Source: RSPB).

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

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 53

Walking DPS:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:11

Page 54

MENDIP TIMES

Woodland, moor and coast THE woods and hills of Clevedon, the Gordano Valley and the coast path along the Severn Estuary between Clevedon and Portishead feature on this moderate and varied circle – much of it following the Gordano Round.

Clevedon’s iconic Victorian Pier is the start and the circle takes in two of the town’s hills and then crosses Swiss Valley and into the wooded hill behind Clevedon Court. The next stage is down across the Gordano Valley National Nature Reserve, and up through Weston in Gordano to pick up the coast path.

There’s a cafe at Weston in Gordano and plenty of refreshment in Clevedon. There are several inviting picnic stops and a great place to linger near the end is the stony beach of Lady Bay. It’s an ideal circle for dogs with few stiles and none of these too difficult. There are hills both up and down but these just serve to provide variety and are not difficult. There are stretches that can be a little muddy if it has been raining. Walking is on good footpaths and tracks, a little on quiet residential roads in Clevedon, and a stretch on a country lane, where there is mainly a pavement of sorts.

Enjoy plenty of birdlife and wildflowers both in the woodlands and on the flat North Somerset Levels. In season there are bluebells all along the route, both in the woods and in the coast path fields.

My thanks to ex-Mendip ranger, Chris Walters, for checking this walk for me.

PARK: Along on the front by Clevedon Pier or close by. (There are public toilets opposite the entrance to the pier).

With Sue Gearing PAGE 54 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

START: Clevedon became a popular seaside town in the Victorian era and was served by a short branch line from the main railway at Yatton, between 1847 and 1966. Another railway, the Weston, Clevedon and Portishead Light Railway, opened in 1897 and closed in 1940. The seafront includes ornamental gardens and a Victorian bandstand. The shore is a mixture of pebbled beaches and low rocky cliffs. The rocky beach has been designated as the Clevedon Shore Geological Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Continue north along the front with the estuary on your left, past the entrance to the pier and the work going on to replace the old Royal Pier Hotel with apartments.

Clevedon Pier was opened in 1869, one of the earliest examples of a Victorian pier still in existence in the UK. In October 1970, two spans collapsed and, after a protracted period, a Trust was formed and the pier and terminal buildings were thoroughly restored and opened in May 1989, when the Waverley paddle steamer berthed and took on passengers. The Toll House has a gift shop and a gallery featuring local artists.

Cross the road and soon take the Tarmac path which forks up right past a small natural park area and on to Marine Road above. Turn left. Cross and rejoin the coast road. Soon, just past the church, go up right by the Wellington Terrace sign on the footpath marked to Dial Hill, following the Gordano Round sign. Devised by the Gordano Footpath Group, this is a figureof-eight walk in the area. The logo features a lapwing.

1. DIAL HILL Climb for two or three minutes, avoiding a side turn, and then level out and continue along the end of gardens with good views over Clevedon and the coast. Join a track on a curve – the Zig Zag path – and go left

up this, climbing a little more. Cross a road and follow the footpath on the other side. Very shortly, at the fence corner on the right, fork right on a small path which climbs quite steeply up Dial Hill. Reach the trig point at the top. Go across to the trig where there are well-sited seats with views across the valley – on a clear day you can make out Bristol airport on the horizon. Continue on across to immediately start to descend quite steeply the other side in the direction of the sports field.

2. CRICKET FIELD Go straight ahead along the side of the cricket field and out onto a residential road. Turn left and continue to a junction at the end. Head straight over and through an iron piping barrier and along a path.

Come out into another residential road, where you maintain direction for a minute or two. At a bend, turn right on a short residential spur. At the end take the footpath on the left which leads into the woods on Strawberry Hill.

3. STRAWBERRY HILL Pass through a green metal kissing gate and follow path on with dramatic rocky sides. Down below left are houses in Swiss Valley. Drop gently and reach a junction with another wide track. Turn sharply back left and this leads down to a stony residential track where you turn down right and reach the road to Portishead in Swiss Valley.

4. SWISS VALLEY Cross, turn left, and shortly go right, towards All Saints Church. On the bend, past the church, go ahead through iron fixed railings on to a footpath and along the back of cottages.

5. COURT WOODS Follow directions carefully as there are

Walking DPS:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:11

Page 55

many paths to confuse the walker in the woods. Before reaching steps, turn left into beautiful Court Woods, once a recreational and pleasure area for Clevedon Court.

Soon start to climb fairly gently with steeper sections in parts. Go up between trees more steeply and reach a crossing track which will have taken about three minutes from the start of the path.

Turn left, passing a Clevedon Court Estate sign and follow the path for about two minutes to a fork of tracks with a fallen tree on the corner. Go up right and continue to ascend which may be a little muddy in parts. After about 150 single paces, turn up left at the junction by two beech trees and go up over the roots. The path meanders on through the woodland and then joins a larger track coming up the hill.

A wide range of mature specimen trees are scattered throughout the woodland – Holm oak, Wellingtonia, red oak, Monterey and Austrian pines, Lebanon cedar, and Araucaria, beech, hornbeam, and oak. The understorey contains Portuguese laurel, yew, and holly. These trees and shrubs chiefly date from Sir Arthur Elton’s period (1850s-83) at Clevedon Court. In one season, he planted 3,000 Austrian pines and countless Bhutan pines. There is also a collection of rhododendrons collected by Sir Arthur. As you walk through this area you will see a good deal of evidence of the woodland thinning and management.

Come alongside a short stretch of wall on the right where you bend right and then carry on in the same direction as before, not crossing the bridge. After several minutes on the main track, reach a wider grassy area and along here on the left, with a rather rustic seat, is a wonderful viewpoint over the Gordano valley, across Walton in Gordano and across the Severn.

6. KEEPERS COTTAGE Follow the track passing Keepers cottage on the right and continue on along the

WALKING

OS Explorer 154 Bristol West & Portishead, grid ref: 402 719 6.2 miles, about 3.5 hours walking

woodland ridge, starting to hear the nearby M5. The path bends right and left by railings where a small path joins. Continue on along the ridge until at the end you go through a galvanised kissing gate. The Gordano Round goes right (and crosses the M5), but you go left on a smaller path still in the woods. It descends and, after a few paces, the path is surfaced. When you reach a T-junction with a stony track, turn down left, dropping down into the flat moorland of the Gordano Valley.

7. GORDANO VALLEY Reach a whitewashed cottage on the right and very soon after turn right on a lane for a few yards before going left on Harley lane across the valley. Pass an information board welcoming you to the Gordano Valley National Nature Reserve – a very different landscape to the wooded hills of earlier. Continue along the road across the valley to Walton in Gordano.

8. WALTON IN GORDANO Cross over into Walton Street and the welcoming shop and cafe. Notice the much treasured K8 old GPO telephone box next to it.

Follow the lane uphill – for most of the route there is a footpath on one side or another. Pass a farm shop and then a gem of a small church on the left dedicated to St Peter and St. Paul.

Part of it dates from 1300 and the rest from the 15th century. The main benefactor was Sir Richard Percival who died in 1483 and whose tomb is in the north isle of the nave.

After just over a quarter of a mile up the lane, pass the end of Clevedon Golf Club on your left and, just past the bungalow above it, find access to the Gordano Round footpath which is tucked into the corner of the gateway – there’s a stile beside the second gate but both gates open easily enough.

9. FIELD Walk down the right edge of the field towards the estuary – perhaps a little wet in parts – and cross a stile at the foot onto the coast path.

Follow it left – you have 1.8 miles along here back to the pier in Clevedon. The views across the estuary to Wales and the bridges can be spectacular on a clear day.

The tidal range at Clevedon is the second highest in the world, a rise of over 47 feet from low water on Spring Tides. The tides are very strong, too.

Pass rocky inlets and rock ‘balconies’, and fields on the left alive with bluebells in spring. At Walton, where a track goes up left, stay down and reach the secluded cove of Lady Bay. Steps lead down onto the beach; if you go down then retrace your way back to the coast path. There’s also a small railed balcony here at Lady Bay which is just down from the path – it juts out over the bay with a terrific view. Pass an old gun emplacement and stay on the coast path all the way back to join the road by the church, turn right and return to the pier where you started.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 55

Outdoors page:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:54

Page 56

MENDIP TIMES

OUTDOORS

West Countryman’s Diary

THERE is so much going on at the moment!

After a disastrous start to the year, we are now getting some good weather and I don’t want it to end. I am managing to keep the garden up together and do some of those jobs that have been put off for so long.

Getting outside is my life, but it’s so much With LES more enjoyable when the sun shines. I have DAVIES MBE actually sat in the garden this year, which is something I rarely get the chance to do. I am taking the time to appreciate and enjoy it.

It’s certainly not a show garden – it’s very practical and almost ‘utilitarian’ with some of my quirky decorations and containers that make good use of redundant or worn-out tools and artefacts.

It’s fun and that is what life should be!

I’ve been helping other people enjoy their surroundings and putting them back in touch with the simple pleasures of rural Somerset. I’ve lost count of the number of schoolchildren (and their teachers) that my colleague Helen Woodward and I have taken around the Yeo Valley farmland near Ubley Drove, through the Farmlink programme.

It has been about ‘them’ and the landscape and how it provides the food and health that we all want to enjoy. I never fail to be amazed at the level of hidden knowledge these children have when it comes to history, landscape and food. Our job is to encourage that understanding of something so important to our wellbeing, and so vital to our survival.

They are always excited when they arrive at the Wills Barn down Ubley Drove. They come tumbling out of the coach with an array of hats, big bags and ‘welly’ boots being dragged behind them. The staff are normally a little stressed at having to find us without sign-posts, and the coach driver heaves a sigh of relief at having reached us without getting stuck down some farm track.

“Attitude affects behaviour and behaviour affects attitude.” I learnt this a long time ago and I have seen so many times when the contact between people has broken down because of this. Get it right, however, and things are so much better. The staff get a cup of coffee and a freshly-made biscuit from the Yeo Valley kitchen; the children run off a bit of steam on the grass and the coach driver comes to joins us as well.

All is well with the world again and the view across the valley, and beyond, gives everyone a ‘feel good moment’. We have taken the time to welcome them, calm them and put them into the right frame of mind to appreciate where they are.

Life is a very busy place and we rush about from one job to the next; we should have been at a meeting 10 minutes ago. No wonder we get stressed and at times ill from such a lifestyle.

Mine isn’t like a real job! Taking time to relax is important and some time on the ‘Hill’ can help. I watch those same school children who earlier in the morning came tumbling out of the coach all excited and shouting, and who are now laid on their backs, eyes closed and listening to the sounds that surround them.

Some would say this is a waste of time and I would disagree.

This is about de-stressing and opening the mind. I sometimes think that we put too much pressure on our children to achieve academically, when we should be helping them to find their own level of success and contentment in the world. For us ‘grown ups’ the world can be scary place as well and so it’s even more

important to have some kind of sanctuary and solitude. For me it is the ‘Hill’ and those moments that I spend on it and share with others.

I’ve done a couple of walks with ‘grown ups’ recently. One such group was with the ladies from Wrington Vale Rotary’s Inner Wheel. All local people, they’ve all been on Mendip before and enjoy every moment that they are out on it.

My walk with them wasn’t far, probably only about a mile across the southern slopes of Mendip around Deer Leap. The views are stunning and our Somerset landscape is amongst the best that any county can offer. Beneath our feet lie centuries of history that is locked into the land, as those who went before us were.

There are two deserted farms on this site that became abandoned around the time of the plague, when those who survived found there were better sites and better land coming onto the market. Their life was tough and I don’t think that we can even begin to understand how they struggled for existence on a daily basis. For me there is a connection across the void of time through such sites as these, where ordinary people lived out their lives, and raised the next generation in the hope that theirs would be a better life.

This year we commemorate the start of the First World War and we remember all those who lost their lives in that terrible conflict. Very nearly a whole generation was wiped out on the battlefields of Europe and the Middle East, in a war that was intended to end all wars. Many of those who went were Territorials, members of the Territorial Army. These were citizen soldiers who had civilian jobs and trained in their own time with locally raised regiments such as the North Somerset Yeomanry, a cavalry regiment, and the Somerset Light Infantry.

Such men were often from the land and what an adventure it must have seemed to take part in such a ‘show’ as this. How soon was that to change with the stalemate and horrors of trench warfare. Today’s successors to those Territorials are still serving. Together with their comrades in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and RAF, they are still defending our way of life, sometimes at the ultimate cost to themselves. They deserve our thanks as well.

I have just completed a day on Mendip with 26 students from the University of Georgia in the USA, but more of that next month. In the meantime, I leave you with a photo of the ladies from Wrington Vale Inner Wheel, who having been driven half mad by my ‘ramblings’ about Mendip, have all taken part in ‘synchronised lying down’ to form the famous Rotary wheel.

Photo courtesy of Patricia Murphy from Blagdon.

You can now follow me on Twitter (@westcountryman1) or through my website: westcountryman.co.uk; yes even I have a twitter account!

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

PAGE 56 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Yeo Valley page:Layout 1

24/7/14

16:09

Page 1

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!’

The BBC film the bees in our Yeo Valley Organic Garden

THE Yeo Valley Organic Garden has been buzzing! We were chosen by the BBC as the location for their two-part documentary ‘Hive Alive’, aired during July.

What did it mean to us in the Garden?

We got rather over excited (Richard would try anything to get in shot!)

Sharing the garden with a team of up to 20 film crew from the Producer to set designers and runners. Tim’s office morphed into the “production suite” whilst the pool room became the “the make-up department”.

Trying to walk nonchalantly passed Chris Packham on the Tea Terrace and stopping ourselves from rushing up and saying “I loved you in the Really Wild Show”.

25 of us nearly tripping over the sound boom when coming round a corner on a garden tour.

The elevation of our local bee keeper John Smythe –to an “A” list celebrity – note the wrap- around sunglasses.

Trying to keep Mabel the Pug from chasing the hexicopter.

Having to close off Tarka’s Hut for the observation hive and then discovering the bees had swarmed anyway.

Discovering a pergola had been erected overnight beside the Cacti house.

Seeing John and Adam sitting in the Tea Room tagging bees.

Hearing that John “smoked” everyone before approaching the hive to stop the bees landing on them prior to filming. Only 4 people were stung over the 4 full days filming and a paramedic was on site.

Post Filming The excitement of John delivering the first batch of honey -60lbs with another 100lbs to come.

Discovering that 2 white tagged bees are still flying 3 weeks after filming.

We’ll still see John once a week in the garden as he checks the hives, and prepares them for winter. (We may even see him more regularly to deal with our wasps nests – 4 last year!)

Would we do it again? –yes, absolutely! It’s very exciting seeing the garden on TV and talking to visitors- they really loved the programme and were delighted to recognise the garden.

If you missed seeing Hive Alive, catch it online via the BBC’s iplayer.

The Yeo Valley Organic Garden is open Thursdays and Fridays 11.00 – 5.00pm to the 31st October, and the first Sunday of the month 11.00-5.00pm. Find out more at www.yeovalley.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 57

Gardening section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:51

Page 58

MENDIP TIMES

Oh dear, August already!

WHAT a super summer we have had. An abundance of rain in the winter and spring got plants off to a flying start and I cannot recall a With MARY year when shrubs PAYNE MBE and trees flowered more prolifically. Plenty of sun during the last three months has encouraged good growth. Indeed everything in the garden looks rosy – until August!

August is the season of spent flowers and dried-up lawns. Hanging baskets often look past their prime and even the road verges look tired. Yet we still have a couple of months of summer left, so what can be done to keep the garden looking fresh and colourful right through to autumn?

I think the real answer lies in forward planning. There is always a tendency to get the garden sorted in the spring and plant up any spare places with plants that are around in the garden centres at that time. Plants that perform in late summer have little on show in spring and therefore do not get bought in favour of earlier flowering types that are up and running.

Planning a border on paper, even if it’s only a list of plants, and checking that you have their flowering season spread through the summer will help enormously. I always work with six seasons – Dec/Jan, Feb/March, April/May, June/July, Aug/Sept, and finally Oct/Nov. This ensures that some plants are designed to perform in each month, even tricky August, and there are plenty to choose from.

Removing dead flower heads will help some plants to continue flowering, as their real role in life is to set seed rather than please us human beings. Doubleflowered plants last longer than their single-flowered relatives, but are not so good for bees.

Keeping plants watered, especially those in pots and baskets, will help enormously, but is not very practical on larger gardens. Automated watering systems for pots and baskets are particularly good. If watering, using a hand-held hose-pipe, it is better (and more economical), to spot water individual plants thoroughly, than to spray water randomly over an area.

When periods of dry weather are PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

forecast lift the height of cut on the mower. Grass will suffer much less if it is left slightly longer than if it is cut very tight. A summer feed just before rain is forecast will also help improve the colour.

Another way to spread the flowering season is to give some plants the Chelsea Chop. This is involves cutting back, to six inches or so, all or part of a herbaceous plant at mid-May, usually with the aim of keeping the plant slightly shorter, to avoid the need for staking. However, this also has the effect of making the plant flower slightly later. This can be done successfully with border phlox and Michaelmas daisies.

So which plants can be relied upon to perform in the dreaded month of August? Look around your towns and you will see that bedding plants are the stars at this time. Many parks departments have had severe budget cuts and have been forced to reduce the number of beds that are planted out twice a year to those in key areas.

Remaining areas have been planted up with perennials and grasses to reduce the labour costs of regular replanting. In most private gardens “bedding out” is not done on a large scale, but a few containers of colourful annuals can have a huge impact. Busy Lizzies were always a popular bedding plant and could be relied upon to perform right through to the first frosts with little attention. Downy mildew fungal disease has brought an abrupt end to the Busy Lizzie.

Its close relative, the New Guinea Impatiens is nowhere near as reliable.

Petunias and geraniums are excellent in a sunny season, but look very bedraggled if it rains. The stars, which cope with all weathers, are begonias.

For larger flowers look for the Non Stop Series which now come with either green or mocha coloured foliage.

For small flowers the Begonia semperflorens are hard to beat, as long as you want pink, red or white. Both types will keep flowering right up to the frosts and are ideal for planting in containers or borders. The containers in Chew Magna are planted with deep pink Non Stop begonias.

Other useful annuals include Cosmos which can always be relied on to keep flowering, especially if dead-headed.

Aster 'Little Carlow'

Use the Sonata Strain of cosmos which grows to two feet and flowers earlier than the taller ones. Cleome (Spider Flower) is a less well known annual which is also useful to fill gaps in borders.

For permanent planting the sedums, or ice plants, are hard to beat, and are loved by bees and butterflies. Sedum ‘Herbstfreude’ has flat heads of pink flowers over succulent green foliage.

The flower heads can be left in the autumn and make an interesting addition to the winter garden when touched by a hoar frost.

Aster ‘Little Carlow’ is a great favourite of mine and flowers before the Michaelmas Daisies. Loosestrife (Lythrum) is a British native often seen near water, but can be grown in borders and has a number of cultivated variants.

Japanese anemones, although inclined to wander, are ideal and will flower through August and September.

My favourites are the tall white ‘Honerine Jobert’ or the shorter twotone pink ‘Hadspen Abundance’.

Butterfly bushes (Buddleja) are performing magnificently this year and should continue through August. There are now less vigorous forms of Butterfly bush marketed under the Buzz Series with the usual range of colours. They are even recommended for containers although a good-sized pot would be required. In August they will be joined by the blue flowered Caryopteris and Ceratostigma – what a mouthful.

August need not be a disaster – just remember to leave space for these valuable late performers.

Gardening section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:52

Page 59

AUGUST GARDEN TIPS

G Cabbage, cauliflower, sprouts and other Brassicas get a multitude of pests at this time of year. Use Agralan Enviromesh to protect vegetable crops against flying pests, it is particularly effective against carrot and cabbage root fly and caterpillars.

G Fill spaces in the veg patch by sowing quick maturing items such as turnips or, better still, varieties that will provide tasty winter salads like American land cress, corn salad, rocket, and Radicchio.

G Prune fruit trees that have fruits containing stones rather than pips now. Plums, cherries, apricots, peaches and nectarines are best pruned during the summer when they are less likely to get infected with the incurable Silver Leaf disease.

G Plant strawberry runners. Those planted now will produce the earliest crops next year. Cut old leaves and surplus runners off established plants.

G Prune out summer fruiting raspberry canes that have finished cropping.

G Reliable hardy annuals and biennials can still be sown.

Californian poppies (Escholscholzia) are so easy and should be sown directly into a well prepared seed bed in full sun where they are to flower. Brompton Stock, Forget Me Not and Sweet Williams are old favourites that are best sown in a row to be transplanted to the flower border in autumn. They will provide masses of colour in spring and early summer next year.

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NURSERY MASBURY, NR. WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 3HA TEL: 01749 841014 FAX: 01749 841055 www.rockymountainnursery.co.uk

GARDENING

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

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

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

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

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

COME & SEE OUR FINE RANGE OF FRUIT TREES, SHRUBS, GERANIUMS & FUCHSIAS

Visit our ROCK CAKE CAFE Serving breakfast, lunch & afternoon tea Browse around JAMES STORE Large stock of HOME BREW PRODUCTS + many other bargains See our website for more details www.rockymountainnursery.co.uk

ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS – SET IN 12 WONDERFUL ACRES –

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 • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 59

Gardening section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:52

Page 60

MENDIP TIMES

Young gardeners

NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH

A retreat from the modern world

A growing concern – Welton primary school youngsters

YOUNG members of Welton Primary School’s gardening club are turning seeds into profit.

Known as the Gardening Rangers, the youngsters launched their own business at Midsomer Norton Farmers’ Market, running a stall selling vegetable plants and pots of geraniums.

Members of the after school club shared the stall with their range of tutus for children and adults!

Welton primary has won several awards in both the Bath in Bloom and South West in Bloom competitions and will be hoping for further success this year.

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

PAGE 60 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

IT can certainly be a challenge to garden at almost 1,000 feet within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, only three miles from the cathedral city of Wells.

Summer is delayed by two days for every hundred feet above sea level.

So summer in West Horrington begins about two weeks after that in Wells! This is a peaceful garden full of old garden favourites set in about a third of an acre. It has mostly been laid out in a cottage garden style within dry stone walls and raw face bedrock.

There are nine differing rooms, which merge together, and include a sun terrace, water feature and pool, a Japanese inspired garden, hidden contemplation garden, fernery, vegetable plot and lawns with stripes. Parking is in the paddock and you are welcome to bring a picnic and frisbee.

Gardens have a tradition of being healing, spiritual sanctuaries used to quell turbulent emotions and to brighten and lift the human spirit. To be in a garden oasis can be a complete antidote for our stressful modern lives, which is what this garden intends to do.

NGS opening details: August 24th, 11am – 5pm, also by appointment until the end of August.

Admission: £3.50, children free.

Contact Information: Jane Clisby, Sole Retreat Reflexology, 01749 672648/07790 602906, Email: janeclisby@aol.com Address and postcode: West Horrington, Wells, BA5 3EH. 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

Gardening section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:52

Page 61

GARDENING

SUMMER STOCK CLEARANCE 133/4% off HONDA machines in stock

plus other offers, examples below (Terms and Conditions Apply) 16” SELF DRIVE RRP £470 NOW £399 18” PUSH RRP £420 NOW £350

21” MULCHER RRP £579

NOW £490

THE HONDA VERSATOOL RRP £369

£50 OFF – NOW £319 + 15% OFF ATTACHMENTS w ww. m e n di pm o w e r s. c o . u k • 0 1 37 3 8 32 9 65 Gree n Far m In du s tr ial Es tate, Ch ap man s lad e, BA1 3 4 JJ

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 61

Gardening section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:52

Page 62

MENDIP TIMES

Scarecrows help fund Writhlington flower show WRITHLINGTON Flower Show Committee held its first ever village scarecrow trail to raise funds for a marquee for the 125th Flower Show and Fete on Saturday, August 16th.

Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis will

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

open the show at 2.30pm.

The Mendip Brass Band will play at the show to recreate the atmosphere of the first show in 1889 when the Writhlington Brass Band played throughout the afternoon and evening.

There will be a small display of the history of the show along with some memorabilia in the village hall. To commemorate the anniversary the flower show committee will present some special awards.

G Schedules for this year’s show are available from the Radstock Cooperative Store, Writhlington Corner Stores, Fromeway Inn, Clandown Post Office and Faulkland Inn or contact secretary Helen Gulliford on 01761 420417.

Burford is full of surprises

Members of the Ashcott Ramblers and Selected Extras group meet every Monday to explore a new part of Somerset

VISITORS to the gardens at East Burford House, near Pilton, were delighted by its charm and surprises.

Christopher and Lindsay Bond opened the three acres of varied habitat as part of the NGS open gardens scheme, raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Stump Grinding and Wood Chipping Services throughout the South West

Part of the terrace

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

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

Visitors admire some of the many sculpture works at East Burford House PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Ann Sebright and Mark Tobin were part of the team selling cream teas and cakes

Gardening section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:52

Page 63

New from Tincknells

TINCKNELLS has been synonymous with STIHL for over 30 years and, while they remain at the pinnacle for garden machinery and the professionals’ choice, Tincknells have realised that there is a growing demand from their customers for more affordable domestic machines whilst still having a known and trusted branding.

For this reason, Tincknells have decided to complement their STIHL and Viking product range by also becoming a Hyundai Power Equipment dealer for the local area, offering their customers a wider choice than ever before.

Nick Burdge, manager of the Congresbury branch, said: “Their products complement STIHL and Viking perfectly as well as offering customers a brand that is a household name, backed up with up to two years warranty.

“The range means that we are now able to offer our customers products such as an electric start petrol mower, petrol pressure washers and generators and a wide range of water pumps, not to mention some fantastic pricing, with us offering a petrol mower for just £99!”

GARDENING

Stanton Drew Flower Show

Mary Payne and Kris Mountford, with her grandchildren Poppy and Daisy

Chelwood Bridge Rotarians, Colin Robinson (left), and Rob Taylor publicised the club's relay marathon and family fun day on September 14th.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 63

Gardening section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:52

Page 64

MENDIP TIMES

Local success at Hampton Court A GARDEN created by a local school and designers has won a silver-gilt award at the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show.

Horticolous, from Wrington, built their show garden, The Forgotten Folly, with the help of children from Wrington C. of E. Primary School.

They had provided specialist knowledge and skills to regenerate the school’s conservation area with the children. The youngsters then helped nurture some of the plants for the show and then visited Hampton Court, where they are pictured with gardening expert,

Lynn Riches and Mark Lippiatt

A busy year

WITH ten years experience in horticulture, Steve Jameson established The Mendip Garden Company in 2011 to offer a high quality garden and grounds maintenance and landscaping service to the Mendip area and beyond.

He said: “With over 60 regular residential customers and a growing commercial client-base, including The Bishops Palace in Wells, local churches and communal gardens, as well as undertaking more landscaping projects, this has been our busiest year.

His team of uniformed gardeners offer a

PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

GARDENING

Monty Don. Sarah Whitehouse, class teacher said: “The children are so excited to be part of the show! Involving them in the creation of this garden has given them a greater understanding of how important these areas are to the environment.”

Horticolous will now help the children replant their school conservation area with some of the plants from The Forgotten Folly. highly professional and reliable service, with high standards of work on every visit, which covers everything from window boxes to larger gardens.

Steve is keen to encourage horticulture as a long-term career and the company has taken on a new young team member following the completion of his horticulture course at Cannington College.

Steve believes that teaching new skills and encouraging ongoing staff development ultimately will always benefit the customer as well.

With plans to grow the company, but

keen to keep the personal touch, Steve said: “Basically we are a friendly team who are passionate about all things gardens. If we can offer that passion to every client, I know that we can build on our success so far.”

Frome Festival page:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:46

Page 1

Off to see the wizard

FROME FESTIVAL

The Frome Street Bandits paraded through town before the start of the Frome Feast

Photo courtesy of Loveday Powell (Frome Times)

AN attempt to break the world record for the most people in one place dressed as characters from the Wizard of Oz brought a spectacular end to this year’s Frome Festival.

Dorothy and the Wicked Witch appeared to be the most popular characters amongst women, children – and men – and there was even one person dressed as the yellow brick road!

A total of 232 people took part in the attempt; sadly some distance short of the world record of 446. The event raised money for Dorothy House Hospice and local cancer charity PAC. The cast of Spellbound, the youth section of Frome Musical Theatre Company joined in ahead of their production of the musical – celebrating its 75th anniversary – at Frome Memorial Theatre in August.

The 2014 festival kicked off in traditional style with the annual Gemma and Kane and their Frome Feast, a celebration of dog Betty as Dorothy, the world food and music.

Wicked Witch and Toto!

People gather for the world record attempt

Faraday, Violet and Willow were off to see the wizard

Hot and spicy – a taste of Mexico from Frome Wholefoods

Festival chairman Bob Morris (left) and artistic director Martin Dimery raise a glass to the 2014 festival MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 65

Community DPS:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:45

Page 66

MENDIP TIMES

Drivers needed for transport scheme

A COMMUNITY transport scheme that has been providing help and assistance to local people since 2001 is looking for new volunteers in the Peasedown St John area.

Based in Radstock, SWAN Transport is for those living in Bath and North East Somerset who are elderly or on low incomes. With more than 400 people registered, volunteers are always needed to take people to hospital appointments, training or education opportunities, or simply for just trips out.

Peasedown councillor Nathan Hartley said: “SWAN has a very positive reputation for providing a reliable service to those who take part in the scheme. Thanks to a variety of funding sources, the organisation is able to provide car lifts at a subsidised rate to those who need them.”

With 20 volunteer drivers, SWAN has been able to transport people to a variety of different locations.

As demand for Swan’s transport grows they are continually seeking new drivers to help with this rewarding work. All mileage costs are reimbursed and volunteer drivers can state the days or times they would be willing to drive. Some drivers are able to help each week, others just a couple of times a month.

Details: 01761 439548 or email swan.transport@btconnect.com

Nominations open for community awards

THE annual Community Awards run by the chairman of Bath and North East Somerset Council has opened for 2014.

And this year, chairman councillor Martin Veal has plans to make a special award to one of the nominations received.

The aim of the awards is to recognise volunteers, community leaders, community organisations and local businesses who work tirelessly in the community to make a positive difference. The awards highlight the contributions made by local people, their efforts to involve others and impact they make on their communities. Last year, there were 114 nominations.

There are two categories: volunteering awards and a business in the community award. Unlike previous years, the education award will take place separately.

Councillor Veal said: “I am delighted to be hosting the Community Awards this year, along with our partners the Volunteer Centre, Curo and the Student Community Partnership. It is important that we recognise the contributions made by such fantastic people who work tirelessly for the benefit of others. I hope as many people can take the time to nominate for an award as possible.”

Full details about the criteria for nominating people or organisations and nomination forms are available from the council at: www.bathnes.gov.uk/chairmanawards

PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Project adds a splash of colour to Paulton in Bloom

GIANT cross stitch murals sprung up around Paulton Village Hall just in time for the village’s Party in the Park and the judging of Paulton’s entry into the South West in Bloom competition.

The artwork of giant poppies and hot air balloons was originally created by local mum-of-two, Kerry Baker, who said: “I saw examples of urban cross stitch by two French artists and was immediately struck by how effective it was.

“I knew exactly where I wanted the artwork to go and before I knew it I had the backing of the Parish Council and Pride in Paulton Partnership.

“The poppies were created to accompany the commemorative poppy bed next to the village hall and the hot air balloon design just seemed appropriate for this area.”

Kerry began posting pictures of her cross stitch creations on Facebook, which encouraged a number of other villagers to get involved with the imaginative project.

Community DPS:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:45

Page 67

A summer in pictures

THE summer holidays are in full swing and some younger people – especially in rural areas – may be thinking that there are not a lot of things for

By SIMON them to do.

SELBY Unfortunately, this can result in young people in those areas becoming disenchanted with their environment and disengaged from their communities, occasionally gravitating into “low level” anti-social behaviour (a phrase I have never found the victims to agree with). So, are there any ways to combat this and encourage them to appreciate our great part of the world more?

The answer is yes; if we use a bit of imagination. One example goes back to when I was the Crime Reduction Officer/Youth Strategy Officer for the Mendip area and was contacted by residents of Evercreech who were fed up of local youths causing damage and frankly being a pain. In turn I contacted the Somerset Rural Youth Project (SRYP) to see what they could suggest as we had had some discussions about re-engaging young people a few weeks before. The idea they

COMMUNITY

came up with was inspired.

Firstly they visited Evercreech and had a good honest chat with the young people about their views. It quickly became evident they felt the village was not relevant, interesting or of value to them.

This was in part due to the fact that they felt they had no voice and were viewed more as a nuisance by “them” (referring to the adults).

When asked what they would like, not surprisingly a party featured quite highly, the typical answer most of us would have given at that age. And here is where the clever part came in: SRYP offered to put on a party, providing the young people took part in an easy exercise. They were provided with a few cheap, disposable cameras and tasked to find photographs in the village of “characters”, quirky things, artistic things, unknown facts or just plain interesting “stuff”.

The best would be turned into postcards and Christmas cards and sold within the village and surrounding area. The profit from the sales would then go to fund the party. One of the most immediate achievements was that the young people had something to do, spurred on by their desired goal. Some actually came to view it

as really fascinating and found unknown talents for research, photography and a variety of other skills.

The poster advertising the It is also competition worth mentioning that quite a few had not experienced much in the way of praise and on this occasion they certainly did, as they totally deserved it.

Now Somerset County Council's Youth and Community Service is running a very relevant competition to find photos that show people how great it is to be involved in a youth club or project. If your club would like to enter you have until September 30th to capture those perfect images and send them in. Your photo could show young people involved in an activity, having a discussion, playing games, getting involved with their community or anything else you can think of! The three best photos will each win £100 for their youth club.

For more details contact Jeff Brown at jbrown@somerset.gov.uk or 01823 358170

Martin is a Mendip star

MARTIN Bax, a former Mayor of Frome and the president of the Frome Festival, has been named the winner in the Mendip area of the 2014 Somerset volunteer Star award.

Martin Bax MBE, an actor, was nominated for the awards organised by the Somerset “You Can Do” team on behalf of the Somerset “Celebrating Support” group.

William Wallace, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, made the presentation to Martin and winners from the five other districts in the county.

Martin Bax was a town councillor in Frome and a member of Mendip District Council and founded the hugely-popular Frome Festival in 2001. He was its director for the first seven years of its existence. He was a founding trustee of Rook Lane Arts Trust in Frome and is currently its chairman. Over the years he has been involved in various organised fundraising events for local charities and organisations.

Martin said: “When I first heard that I had been nominated for this award, I was completely taken aback. My first reaction was that there must be more deserving people in the caring sector.

“However, the organisers informed me that one of the objects of the award was to highlight the wide variety of volunteering work that is done in Somerset. I am also pleased this award will

Martin (left) receives his award from William Wallace

highlight the good work done by so many volunteers in Frome. I like to think I am accepting this award on their behalf.”

Speaking at the award ceremony, Councillor Wallace praised volunteers for their efforts: “It is fantastic that we can recognise just a few of our dedicated volunteers here today. These individuals can be extremely proud of the selfless work they undertake in our county.

Volunteers are unsung heroes that do so much without asking for anything in return and I would personally like to thank all volunteers in Somerset for their work.”

The prize winners will each have a star named after them, an imaginative and memorable way of commemorating their achievements.

To find out more about the awards and the winners see www.scvolunteering.com

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 67

Health section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:44

Page 68

MENDIP TIMES

How to get the most from your GP – part two

Know what care you should be getting For just about every mental and physical illness, there is an agreed standard of care that you should be getting and clear information written about it for patients and carers on the www.nice.org.uk website. Spend time getting to know the standard of care you should be getting – e.g. if you have any chronic disease, you should have a care plan you have agreed

By Dr PHIL to and understood, with clear instructions as to what to do if HAMMOND your illness flares up. Many patients don’t have this and don’t even know they’re entitled to it.

Know what the red flags are Serious illnesses usually come on fairly quickly or even suddenly, and involve a change that you should be able to spot (abnormal bleeding from anywhere, change in pooing and peeing, loss of appetite, weight, movement, sensation, vision, speech or hearing, night sweats, lumps and bumps, pain and headaches especially if it wakes you at night or you wake with it in the morning). www.macmillan.org.uk do a very clear symptoms and signs of cancer you should all know and act on (i.e. see your GP urgently). You should also know basic life support, have regularly training and know when to (and when not to) dial 999.

How to get the most from a consultation If you are seeing a GP, be prepared. Read up on your symptoms or problems at one of the good websites above, but don’t go in having made the diagnosis. You should agree the most likely diagnosis during the consultation.

Some illnesses are hard to diagnose in the early stages, and the initial diagnosis is sometimes wrong. Always ask ‘What else could it be?’ ‘How Would I Know?’ and ‘What Should I Do If It Doesn’t Get Better?’

It’s fine to take a list to remind you why you came, but keep it to three items at most, and put what matters to you most, and why, at the top. Write when your symptoms started and how they have changed. If you’re a woman, know when your last period started.

Don’t waste your 10 minutes talking about stuff that doesn’t really matter to you, then say what really does matter right at the very end with your hand on the door handle. Your GP is not a mind reader but should be a kind listener. You sometimes have to be brave to talk about a difficult subject such as depression or abuse.

Do expect to be examined, so dress accordingly. Loose clothes are best and not too many layers.

If they’re smart too, your GP might take you more seriously (we should treat you by need, not appearance, but the NHS sometimes gives better care to those who dress up to see the doctor).

If you need an internal examination, go in-between periods, not in the middle of one.

If you’ve got kids, see if you could you leave them with someone, so the ten minutes is all about you and not disrupted.

If you think you have a urine infection, take a sample. It will save time.

This is an extract from Dr Phil’s new book Staying Alive – How To Survive The NHS – more next month. Dr Phil’s Saturday Surgery is on BBC Radio Bristol every Saturday morning from 9am–12noon

PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Rites of passage

GCSE’s over and eldest child is a free agent. The end of school is marked by the Leavers Ball. This rite of passage signals the transition from school to sixth form.

The preparation began in January (the ball was the end of June) when we bought the dress. We then entered a phase of negotiation when we agreed or disagreed on what was “in” and what was “out”.

The limousine was “in” after we agreed that its astronomical cost could be shared with seven other families. The spray tan was “out”. The hair appointment was “in” as long as she had a trim at the same time but the “practice hair” was “out”.

The after-prom party dress was “in” along with the shoes and their unfeasibly high heels. The school pulled out all the stops to make it an occasion they would always remember and they all left buzzing with happy memories.

Just two days later and she leaves for an independent holiday in a seaside town in Cornwall. The town has become a magnet for young people seeking post-exam fun and freedom away from their parents. I am trying not to worry and feel that I was duped into agreeing to this five-day excursion when I was lost in a hormonal fog.

I pack her off with sun-cream, warnings and food that she can re-hydrate if all else fails. We rehearse several doom-filled scenarios and agreed on the actions that would need to be taken if the worst happens. I make her promise to send me daily texts and tell her that I don’t mind driving to Cornwall to pick her up if she wants to come home.

The sun shines for her and the texts are descriptive. They signal happiness. Day four and she phones me, her voice is hoarse and she is telling me that she is trying to sleep in the middle of the day but her room is too hot. I wonder if she wants to come home but she assures me that she is looking forward to the last night.

When she does return home she tells us in no uncertain terms that she has had the time of her life and given the choice would rather be there than here, unloading the dishwasher and hanging out the washing.

Around this time she also celebrates her 16th. She has a party and I am impressed with the behaviour of the 40 or so young people she invites. She is growing up and with a twinkle in her eye she tells me: “Now I am sixteen I can legally…buy a lottery ticket!”

MENDIP MUM

Health section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:44

Page 69

Free trial for therapy WELLS-based counsellor and Certified Emotional Freedom Technique Practitioner, Jane RossWheatley is offering a 90minute session of EFT free of charge to give clients the opportunity to experience first hand the liberating effects of this therapy.

EFT is beginning to be used widely in the NHS to

alleviate anxiety and depression because it is so effective in reducing the symptoms and can be used as a self-help tool. EFT can ease almost any emotional issue.

Details: janerosswheatley.com and quote Mendip Times. See advert for details.

Emotional Well-Being Clinic Help with: ● Anxiety ● Depression ● Lack of confidence ● Relationships ● Trauma ● Low self-esteem ● Indecision ● Stress ● Life Changes ● Negative beliefs ● Anger Management ● Painful memories ● Self-defeating/harming behaviour ● Low self-esteem ● Loss

J a ne Ros s- Wh e at le y

BACP ACCREDITED COUNSELLOR AAMET CERTIFIED EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE PRACTITIONER Evening and weekend appointments available Introductory rate available – Complimentary initial half hour session Visit janeross-wheatley.com or call 07731 937293 e Remedy Centre, 23 Cuthbert Street, Wells

Singles Social Group (Not a dating agency – est. 1979) Age range 40 – 60 approx.

Weekly Bar Night Events include: walks, dances, parties, meals out, theatre, cinema etc.

Jane Ross-Wheatley

HEALTH & FAMILY

Ca ll o ur pr of es si o na l te a m o n 0 1 37 3 46 3 83 8 E m a il: m en d ip@ b lue bir dc a re.c o .uk

For further details call 01749 330455 01278 788077 01458 840958 01934 743139 www.singleprofessionalassociation.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 69

Health section:Layout 1

24/7/14

MENDIP TIMES

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

15:44

Page 70

HEALTH & FAMILY

Royal Visit page:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:42

Page 1

ROYAL VISIT

Restoration Royal

PRINCE Charles met some of the people behind two significant – but very different – restoration projects on a visit to Glastonbury and the Somerset Levels.

On a tour of Glastonbury Abbey, the prince saw the completed work on the Abbot’s Kitchen, one of the finest and best preserved medieval kitchens in Europe, which survived King Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries.

This year has been dedicated as the Year of the Kitchen at the abbey, to mark the completion of the project, part of the Rescue Our Ruins appeal. Prince Charles was escorted on his tour of the abbey by Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis, ambassador for the appeal.

On arriving in Glastonbury, the prince delighted traders and shoppers at the town’s weekly market with an impromptu walkabout. One trader shouted at him jokingly: “Organic vegetables on sale here – cheaper than yours!”

After meeting representatives of Somerset’s tourism industry at a reception at the abbey, Prince Charles returned to Muchelney to learn about the recovery that has been achieved by local people and by the environment since last winter’s floods.

Prince Charles meets Sir Mick Jagger’s brother Chris, who lives near Wedmore, at Glastonbury market

The reception, hosted by the South Somerset District Council, was convened to recognise the fortitude and resilience of local residents, farmers and businesses that were hardest hit by the winter floods.

He arrived at The Almonry Barn in Muchelney by car, along the same road as the prince travelled along in February by boat and used the visit to meet both the people who were affected and to thank the individuals and organisations who were involved in supporting the local community throughout the crisis.

Councillor Mike Best, chairman of South Somerset District Council, said: “It was a really successful day for everyone who attended the reception and it was a very good opportunity for them to

HRH in a relaxed and chatty mood on his visit to the abbey

update His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales of progress made since his last visit in February.

“It was also a great day for the community to see His Royal Highness taking such an interest in a community that was so badly affected by the flooding earlier in 2014. The venue looked marvellous and is a fantastic example of a business that was so badly affected by the floods only a couple of months ago, to be able to come back to life.”

At the end of his stay in Somerset, the prince travelled to Castle Cary station where he met First Great Western staff who restored elements of the damaged railway network during the floods and to learn about the company’s “Be a Great Westerner” Campaign. Travel figures showed a 25% drop in rail travel to the South West as a result of the severe weather. The company launched the campaign to encourage more visits to the South West and South Wales.

Ani Kathy, from the Buddha Maitreya Shambhala soul therapy centre in Glastonbury, presents Prince Charles with some healing “tools” MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 71

24/7/14

15:41

Page 80

MENDIP TIMES

CAVING

Cave dig celebration

IT is fair to say that there are no open caves left to be discovered on Mendip. Occasionally new holes are opened by natural collapse, or by quarrying or road building activities, but most of the caves we have on the hill have been dug open by cavers.

Some digs have been ridiculously easy and With PHILIP entry has been gained in a very short time.

HENDY Others have involved weeks, months, and even years of sustained effort, often by different teams as groups become disillusioned and give up.

Some sites have been dug intermittently for years with no success. One such is Hillgrove Swallet, near Green Ore, where work started more than 100 years ago, with no significant discovery to date.

Cave diggers are seldom seen, as their work is done in remote places, often at night, and more often than not deep underground, in an attempt to extend an existing cave. We usually know when and where they are digging, but each group tends to keep to itself, with only the occasional ‘guest’ digger turning up to help, or sometimes someone with specialist skills will help out another team.

To try to bring cave diggers together for a celebration of digging, and to give interested cavers a chance to see what it is all about, a celebration of diggers and digging was held at Priddy over the weekend of June 6th – 8th. This Dig Fest was organised by the Council of Southern Caving Clubs, which is the forum for cavers in the South West.

The Friday night saw an informal gathering of many cavers at the Hunters’ Lodge Inn, where coincidentally, Roger and Jackie Dors, the landlord and landlady, were celebrating their Golden Wedding anniversary.

There was a display of cave dig surveys, and cavers had a chance to sign up for a Saturday workshop. This was an opportunity to learn how to break rocks and enlarge cave passages without resorting to the use of high explosives. Although these are used underground, they are highly regulated, and not cheap.

There are some ‘low explosive’ products available, without restriction, and these have proved ideal for the controlled destruction of small amounts of rock. This is useful when only a small enlargement of the passage is needed and has the advantage that it is less likely to bring the roof down than the more powerful substances.

One method which was also demonstrated was the use of ‘plug and feathers’. A line of holes is made in the rock with a cordless drill and two tapered lengths of steel, the feathers, are inserted into each one. A steel wedge, the plug, is then hammered into the rock between them, and the digger works along the line, hammering each plug in turn deeper and deeper into the hole.

A change in the sound emitted means that the rock is about to split and eventually a piece of rock is detached. Of course, if there is enough room, the tried and tested lump hammer or sledge hammer can be wielded.

Cavers had the opportunity during Saturday to visit more than 12 active digs, either to help or just to see for themselves what a dig is like. Everyone wants to be at the sharp end, digging out mud and rock, in the faint but ever-present hope that the next shovelful

Sofa challenge celebration

removed will reveal a black space which shows that the dig has ‘gone’. Most, however, helped with removing the excavated spoil back down the passage to be stacked in a convenient place or even hauled up to the surface.

After the business came the pleasure and on Saturday evening the cavers gathered at Priddy Village Hall and on the Top Green.

The fun started with the Wessex Challenge, which this year consisted of a Sofa Race. The race involved each team, in fancy dress, taking a sofa around an obstacle course. This included a tunnel, a Blindfold Trail, crawling under a cargo net while carrying the sofa over it, and a similar hazard consisting of a large horizontal spider’s web.

Watching the teams cross a stretch of grass with their sofas without touching the ground was good entertainment, as they used stepping stones to negotiate the course. Apple-bobbing was also great fun, as the caver involved was not allowed to leave his sofa, while the bowl of apples and water was placed a metre in front of him. A scaffold pole was used here in several interesting ways. The undisputed winners were the team from the Mendip Nature Research Committee, who finished with a large time margin – and also an intact sofa!

The bar was open all evening, and later food was provided in the form of a hog roast. The inevitable ‘stomp’ then followed in the form of a disco hosted by DJ Basher. Sunday morning was taken up with short talks on the Lost Cave of Hutton (which has now been found) by Alan Gray, who also explained the work of the Mendip Cave Registry and Archive, the repository for all information on Mendip caves and mines, with an archive of cave surveys, cavers’ diaries and photographic collections.

Robin Gray discussed the problems of digging in a conservation area – he is currently excavating Toothache, a shaft in Longwood, where another team is digging Longwood Valley Sink. Andrew Atkinson then offered a review of cave surveying techniques, which are now almost completely computer based.

The Dig Fest was an ideal way of learning more about digging techniques, and appreciating the time and effort spent in giving us more caves to explore, while increasing our knowledge of underground Mendip.

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 72 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Photograph by Phil Hendy

Caving DPS:Layout 1

Property section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:39

Page 1

Demand for property slows

BANK of England rhetoric appears to be moderating parts of the South West’s housing market, according to the latest survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

It says house prices in June remained positive in the South West, but the Mortgage Market Review (MMR) and the bank’s intervention are dragging on activity.

In the region a net balance of 44% more respondents reported an increase in prices in June (from 50% in May) but looking ahead the number of respondents expecting prices to rise, rather than fall over the next three months, dropped to 23% more chartered surveyors (from 50% in May).

Demand for property in the South West has slowed with buyer demand falling for the fourth consecutive month in June – 14% more respondents seeing a rise in new buyer enquiries compared to 34% more in March 2014.

The slower trend in demand has also been reflected in the newly agreed sales balance – a good indicator of market activity – which is showing a subdued pace of increase in the region. Some 4% more chartered surveyors reported an increase in newly agreed sales compared to a net balance of 87% in August 2013 and 28% at the beginning of the year.

Looking ahead, as a result of the change in sentiment in the market, the number of respondents expecting prices to rise, rather than fall over the next three months, dropped to a net balance of 23% (from 50% in May).

It means price expectations in the South West are below the national figure with the change predicted over the next 12 months in the region standing at 1.6% compared to the national figure of 3.1%.

A worry-free retirement

THE Hawthorns offers independent living, in luxury style apartments overlooking the seafront in Clevedon. It is unique because you rent your private apartment, so avoid all the hassle and stress of buying.

A monthly all-inclusive fee includes everything from the rent for the apartment, insurance, utility bills, all your meals in the dining room, beautifully landscaped gardens, mini-bus excursions and much more.

There is a great activity programme included in the fee, which ranges from a sports programme to visits to local attractions.

This encourages residents to keep active and have a full social life.

OFFICE TO LET (One of Nine)

• Car parking • Central heating • Carpets & blinds • 24 hour access • B.T. Connections • No lease • Deliveries & Mail Services Clean, tidy & friendly environment Professional address on a monthly basis Winterstoke Road, Weston-super-Mare Telephone 01934 732020 07889 155888

Royal appointment

PROPERTY

ALEX Coward of David James & Partners met Prince Edward and Sophie, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, at the opening ceremony for Thatchers 4,000 square metre Jubilee Building at Sandford.

Alex and his team were responsible for full design, planning permission, contract administration and quantity surveying duties. The project was delivered on time and within budget and now provides a key asset in the growth of the Thatchers brand.

SIDCOT, NR. WINSCOMBE

Quite the most beautiful location! Long lane to private drive with turning circle reveals this ‘Arts & Crafts’ style detached house, standing in delightful gardens of 1 acre and additional 1 acre paddock. Dating to 1927 it offers light and bright family accommodation: 4 double bedrooms, drawing room, dining room, bespoke kitchen & laundry. Two bathrooms and cloakroom, Unconverted attic room, purpose built studio. EPC. E Ref: 24677 PRICE GUIDE: £740,000

BANWELL, NORTH SOMERSET

£40 per week

Superb views in all directions offered by this large detached chalet bungalow, standing in garden and yard of .86 acre. A former boarding kennel with substantial purpose built outbuildings. Accom: 4 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, three bathrooms, kitchen. Some TLC required. EPC D ref: 24672 GUIDE PRICE £450,000

Wrington Tel: 01934 864300 MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 73

Pets and Vets page:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:37

Page 74

MENDIP TIMES

Safe – by a whisker

THIS little black kitten got the ride of its life when it was found under the wheel-arch of a council vehicle that travelled from Yeovil to Bruton!

The kitten was believed to have boarded the vehicle at South Somerset District Council’s Lufton Depot on Artillery Road in Yeovil. Staff on the vehicle got a shock

Web shop now open!

Buy all your favourite pet products online Click & collect service Free delivery over £45

www.sheptonvet.com

when they arrived in Bruton and discovered their extra passenger.

As Mendip Times went to press, the owner had still to be traced but one of the staff who found the kitten has offered to re-home it.

If you believe the kitten to be yours, please contact South Somerset District Council’s Streetscene Services on 01935 462839.

Charity No: 1123238 Website: www.somersetlevelsrda.org

AGNES SMALLEY MEMORIAL 2.5mile DOG WALK SUNDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2014 MILL FARM, HORNINGSHAM BA12 7LL – field parking from 9.30am BORDERING LONGLEAT ESTATE starting at 10.30am – last start 2.00pm – £5.00 per Dog ALL PROCEEDS TO SLRDA

Please contact Yolanda Hansford on 01935 826663(eves) or email yolanda588@btinternet.com for further info & entry form.

More in store at Paws To Claws

PET food, toys, bedding and more are now available at the Paws to Claws pet grooming parlour near Binegar.

Owner Emma Green says she is responding to requests from owners of her four-legged clients by stocking a range of pet products.

Emma, who in June celebrated 18 months of being based at the busy Rookery Farm estate, said: “If there is anything Emma in front of her new parlour people require and it’s sign with clients Honey and Freddy. not here in the parlour, I can order it and usually have it here the next day.”

Emma added: “Moving to Rookery Farm was a very good decision. People seem to like coming here because it is so convenient.”

Open day at Delaware

DELAWARE Veterinary Group of Castle Cary celebrates 15 years of being at their practice in the town’s Torbay Road in August.

The team will be marking their anniversary with an open day on Sunday, August 31st which will provide an interesting and funfilled time for all the family with tours of the practice, refreshments stalls, face painting, bouncy castle and competitions.

The practice’s four-legged friends will also help make it a day to remember with events such as dog agility, dog grooming and guess the weight of the horse! The open day runs from 11am until 4pm.

Delaware Veterinary Group has been dedicated to animal care for more than 100 years in the fields of small animals, farm and equine. They also have a practice in Yeovil.

Call or visit their website for further details: www.delawarevets.co.uk

15th Anniversary Open Day

Sunday 31st August 2014 11am – 4pm

Unit 5, Rookery Farm, Binegar, BA3 4UL

Fulford House, Torbay Road, Castle Cary, BA7 7DT 01963 350307

info@delawarevets.co.uk • www.delawarevets.co.uk PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Pets and Vets page:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:38

Page 75

Vets launch online shop

Practice manager Sharon LaneKieltyka with her award after she was named Petplan Practice Manager of the Year

SHEPTON Mallet Vets have seized the initiative by launching their own online shop offering quality nutrition and pet care products.

The Small Animal side of the practice decided to develop the shop after seeing a growing increase in the number of followers on its Facebook page.

The shop does not offer medicines, parasitical or internal products and is open to anyone, not just existing clients of the practice, which continues to expand on its site in Allyn Saxon Drive in Shepton Mallet.

Veterinarian Greg Elliott-Moustache said: “We are continually trying to improve our online presence and we already have more than 500 ‘likes’ on our Facebook page.

Social media is becoming increasingly important to us and we want to make our nutritional and pet care products – along with things like toys and bedding – more easily available.”

PETS AND VETS

Welcome to the show

THE Langford Small Animal Practice is pleased to welcome you to its ‘Have a Go’ Agility and Dog Show for fun for all the family! On Sunday 14th September you can expect tours of the Small Animal Practice, ‘have a go’ agility and training demonstrations held by Little Orchard Dog Training Academy, a drawing competition, crafts and pet supplies stalls, food and drink, children’s activities and more!

The deadline for the drawing competition is Monday 8th September and it is open to children up to an including 13 years old. You can register for the Dog Show on the day at £1 per class. Admission fee is £2 per car and walkers go free!

Visit www.langfordvets.co.uk/dogshow for more information or contact the Langford Small Animal Practice on 01934 852422 or sap@langfordvets.co.uk

Shepton Mallet Vets has undergone a major refurbishment and redevelopment of the practice as part of its expansion MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 75

News page 76:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:36

Page 1

MENDIP TIMES

Avril takes over

AVRIL Leat, from Holcombe, has become the new president of Midsomer Norton and Radstock Inner Wheel Club.

Avril was presented with her chain of office by outgoing president Brenda Whitchurch.

Brenda (left) and Avril During Brenda’s year in office, members enjoyed a varied programme of talks, social occasions and outings and have raised £2,000 towards the district wide “Whizzibug” campaign to provide wheelchairs for disabled children and £1,500 for STAR, the Somerset charity that helps disadvantaged young people. Other grants have been made to the Community Bus, Air Ambulance, Water Aid and Riding for the Disabled.

Radstock regeneration begins

THE team behind the regeneration of Radstock have issued an “open for business” pledge as preparatory work finally gets underway.

Bath and North East Somerset Council has met local traders in the town to give them details of the work and a leaflet is being sent to all homes in the Radstock and Westfield areas.

Initial work to improve the road system in Radstock to support new homes and jobs began at the end of July. Wessex Water is due to start the final stage of essential flood relief work on Monday, August 4th in Fortescue Road.

Then work will focus on constructing a new link road from Frome Road towards Victoria Hall. Also in August, Linden Homes expect to start work on the first phase of development on the area to south of Frome Road and Victoria Hall. This will provide 70 new homes, up to 282 square metres of retail floor space; up to 84 sqm for community uses and a public car park.

The Wessex Water work in Fortescue Road is expected to last for around four months. To minimise disruption for local businesses and assist with deliveries, Wessex Water said it would be carrying out the work in stages and would be working in sections of Fortescue Road at a time.

The land next to Victoria Hall owned by Norton Radstock Regeneration Co., which has until now been available as an unofficial car park, will close in August to allow Linden Homes to work on the new development. Additional daytime parking is being made available at the rear of Radstock Working Men’s Club.

Councillor Ben Stevens, the council’s Cabinet Member for Sustainable Development, said: “This is an exciting project putting huge investment into Radstock that will improve the

NEWS

From Dorothy to Jerry – and from Kate to Margaret

DOROTHY Cretney, president of the Rotary Club of Frome, has handed over her chain of office to Rotarian Jerry Lewis for the coming year.

Amongst the many organisations to receive donations during Dot’s year in office were the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Wiltshire Air Ambulance, Wessex Counselling, Water Aid, Selwood Academy and Critchill School.

Jerry’s major charity for his forthcoming year is Help For Heroes. Meanwhile, Margaret Holmes has succeeded Kate Lewis as president of the Inner Wheel Club of Frome. Kate had a very successful year and the club raised £8,000 for charity, which was a record.

Margaret’s charities for the coming year are the British Heart Foundation and Wherevertheneed. Inner Wheel will be helping to staff the Rotary Charity Shop in Frome’s Westway Precinct, opening on Monday, August 18th and running until Tuesday, September 9th.

G The annual Rotary Charity Concert “For One Night Only” on Friday, February 27th 2015 at Frome Memorial Theatre will include a selection of WWI items to reflect the ongoing commemoration of the outbreak of the war.

The area of Radstock affected by the first phase of work

roads, bring in new housing and jobs.

“We are working closely with Wessex Water and Linden Homes to try to minimise disruption to local people and businesses - we will work with local traders throughout this project to ensure that people know Radstock town centre is open for business.”

The Council will be communicating more detailed information as work goes on, using local media, the website www.bathnes.gov.uk/regenradstock, Twitter @bathnes and more.

PAGE 76 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Motoring page:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:35

Page 1

Roadsmart scheme

MOTORING

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

Bailey approved body shop and workshop

STUDENTS at Chew Valley School took part in a special police-led course to help reduce their risks on the road.

Around 80 pupils from the school participated in Road Smart driving awareness sessions over the past three months. Road Smart is an Avon and Somerset Police initiative to raise awareness of potential hazards and to help reduce the casualties and deaths on our roads.

For more information about the campaign visit: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/roadsmart

UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES MG ROVER & LAND ROVER SPECIALIST

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 • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 77

Priddy Festival DPS:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:31

Page 78

MENDIP TIMES

T’coa (the name means “peace”) with John (right) from Tatters and Tails in the Market Square

Three years after making their debut in the Club Tent, Priddy based The Drystones, Ford Collier and Alex Gordon, both 18, played to a packed audience in Swildons Marquee. They are currently recording their second album.

A music workshop The weather was kind on Sunday

23 years

Bristol bluesman Steve Payne in Swildons Marquee

A jam session in the bar marquee as the rain began to fall on Saturday afternoon PAGE 78 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

No

Priddy Festival DPS:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:31

Page 79

PRIDDY FOLK FESTIVAL 2014

Simon Allen, from Radstock, made his Priddy debut in the Club Tent. Simon is perhaps better known as a councillor for Bath and North East Somerset Council

One of the music workshops Music in the Queen Victoria

Chasing bubbles

rs of music and fun Tulsi Corfield, aged three

No time to feel blue

Time together on the village green

All smiles on Sunday in the Eastwater dance marquee MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 79

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:51

Page 34

MENDIP TIMES

Rickford Duck Race

Scarecrow invasion

AROUND 250 scarecrows took to the streets around Winscombe and Sandford, for the Winscombe and Sandford Festival, a three-week celebration, which involved more than 60 events. One sleeping yokel with a flagon of cider at his side carried the inscription: “They say work does you no harm, but why take the risk?”

The organisers put in a tremendous amount of work to make it an even bigger event than the last festival four years ago.

Some of the decorated ducks

Holly Thomas and daughter, Tabitha, aged three, prepare their entry PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:51

Page 35

EVENTS

Midsomer Norton Fayre

Welton primary school were named the overall winners of the maypole competition

TRADITION mingled with the modern when the first Midsomer Norton Fayre was held in the town.

Heralded as a celebration for the whole community, the event combined the town’s charter fair and Mardi Gras with some oldfashioned attractions such as a produce show and maypole festival alongside a skate jam in the town’s award-winning skate park and live music with the Big Gig.

The skate jam underway

Westfield Fun Day

The Radstock Devils Scooter Club enter the ring Classic cars were also on display

Award-winning homebaking in the town show marquee

Tony Cooper tries his hand at skittles

Paul Myers, the mayor of Midsomer Norton with carnival royalty MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 81

Homes section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:28

MENDIP TIMES

Don’t spend hours doing this!

Page 82

£10

Book NOW and claim £10 off your first booking

www.oven-clean-express.co.uk

07718 226 733

PAGE 82 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Gleaming clean ovens – as good as new

OF all the most hated chores in the home, cleaning the oven is right at the top of the list. It can be a time-consuming, very messy job and if you suffer from a health condition such as arthritis, can be painful or almost impossible to do.

Cooking appliances need to be maintained regularly. If not, they start consuming more energy and smelling bad. And when an oven starts smelling bad, the food you cook in it absorbs its odours.

Clean ovens are more energy efficient, distributing heat effectively unlike a dirty oven, use less energy to heat up and maintain a constant temperature. Clean ovens save money on your energy bills and reduce the risk of smoke or fire, created by greasy, fatty food deposits.

Clean glass on your oven door, means you won’t need to keep opening the door to check progress (every time you do this, heat escapes and the oven temperature drops, and energy is wasted).

Oven Clean Express specialists can restore your oven, hob, extractor or microwave to ‘as good as new’, condition.

Commercial kitchen environments are now subject to rigorous food health and safety legislation, so they can provide the perfect solution to maintaining high standards in your restaurant or pub kitchen.

So don’t spend your time worrying about oven cleaning, leave the hard work to them.

Homes section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:28

Page 83

JACKSONS

Jacksons Fencing – news, topical treats and more . . .

August ‘Additions’ to the range!

WELL here we are in sultry August, well I’m hoping it is, as at the time of writing this, the summer hasn’t been at all bad. I should know better than to tempt fate like that I suppose.

We’ve had quite a hectic round of summer shows, up and down the country, and things are quietening down a bit for us at Jacksons, as they usually do at this ‘high summer’ time of the year. Hopefully some of you will have visited us at the shows and met the Jacksons team with their award winning show stand, which you can see if you go to your local page, there’s also a link to our prize draw winners page, with photos of some of our winners who visited us at the shows.

So, apart from this news is a bit scarce, shock horror – is this what they call a ‘slow news day’ or month? Well here’s something I can tell you about, August sees the publication of our new brochurette, Additions to the Good Fencing Guide range. It is 24 pages of various products, new, or newish to Jacksons, that we have gathered together in one cover, so we can be sure that you see them all and you don’t miss anything.

As we are continually developing new products or revising and improving things, we tend to print a leaflet so you can see these innovations. But we don’t want to be one of those companies that has too many leaflets flying around, hence the Additions booklet was born about 10 years ago, and it’s become a bit of a

Car Port with trellis infill panels and Sissinghurst planters new in the Additions mini brochure

tradition to publish one every few years since.

This new, mini brochure has an interesting list of contents: Retreat garden shelters, Car Ports with various shaped roofs – one, as you’d expect it to be which is flat, and one that is rather sexily curved, which gives it a very different feeling altogether.

There’s also a stylish idea on how to make your car port more appealing by greening it up a bit by adding trellis panels and planters (see photo a the top of the page).

Storage solutions for outside areas hit new heights with the new and improved version of our wheelie bin store, that can now have an additional unit with shelves in it, for the vast array of recycling boxes we all seem to have these days.

I won’t list everything that’s in the new book, as I don’t want to spoil it for you, you must leave something to the imagination you know!

For your copy of ‘Additions’ you can

Our award winning show stand at the Cheshire show, complete with Jacksons premium stable and the all important rosette!

call your local Jacksons Fencing centre on: 0800 41 43 43, or go to your local page: jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal where you can find a link to download a pdf version. This is where you can find the address and contact details for your local branch of Jacksons, along with all sorts of other interesting info. Enjoy! louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

WIN JACKSONS J A K WA L L W O R T H £ 2 5 0 . . .

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 31.8.14. To enter go to: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 83

Homes section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:28

Page 84

MENDIP TIMES

THESE SUMMER SALE OFFERS EXTENDED UNTIL 31ST AUGUST

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY & INSTALLATION ON MOST ITEMS 20% OFF MINERVA DOME BEDROOM COLLECTION

LOOKING FOR THE COMPLETE SERVICE? IAN HOBBS TECHNICAL SERVICES HAVE THE SOLUTION!

This ready assembled bedroom collection is available in 12 different finishes. Every item is fitted with castors for ease of movement.

Bedside Cabinets from £159 Chest of Drawers from £218 Wardrobes from £351

now from £127 now from £174 now from £279

At least 20% Off all our oak bedroom, dining and living collections MANY DISCONTINUED MODELS AT KNOCK DOWN PRICES – TO CLEAR

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

PAGE 84 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Homes section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:28

Page 85

HOMES & INTERIORS

Weston Garden Machinery Garden Machinery & Woodburning Specialists 01761 439300 • www.staircase-manufacturing.co.uk

Hedgecutters Brushcutters Kombi-systems Blow/Vac TH E ORDER NO W TO BEAT

WINTER RUSH

Free no obligation quotes Free measuring Free delivery The Staircase Manufacturing Company Limited, Wellsway Works, Wells Road, Radstock, Bath BA3 3RZ email: stairman@talktalk.net

RH

Windows

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

Tel: 01934 813261 www.westongarden.co.uk

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

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 85

Homes section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:29

Page 86

MENDIP TIMES

Li ing your expecta!ons!

NEW from £1250 RECONDITIONED from £749 RENTAL from £52 per month

Tel: 0800 999 5432

In store at Haskins, Shepton Mallet • Demonstra!ons by appointment

Telephone: 01749 346900

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

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

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

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

Homes section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:29

Page 87

HOMES & INTERIORS

FAMILY BUSINESS BASED IN THE CHEW VALLEY FOR OVER 100 YEARS

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 87

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:49

Page 28

MENDIP TIMES

Congresbury Fete

Children enjoyed the bouncy castle

Congresbury Gym Club

Congresbury Brass

Congresbury Pre-School ran a cake stall

Congresbury Prince and Princess Issy Pamment and Jay Robb

Ann King and Shirley Bullock on the Weston HospiceCare stall

PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:49

Page 29

EVENTS

Society’s half century

THE Chew Magna Society celebrated its 50th anniversary with a street party in the village car park, together with a slide show of past events in the Old School Rooms.

Since 1964 it’s held dozens of events and organises the village’s annual duck race and fireworks display.

Its recent donations have included £1,000 to the village school and £500 each to the village toddler group and cricket club. It also provided new lavender plants in St. Andrew’s churchyard.

The society is always keen to attract new members.

Compton Martin Fete

Chew Magna Society members (l to r) Jackie Luton, Kate Kew, Pete Kew, Mike Gough, Neil Smith and John Molinghen

Bride-to-be Charlotte Loving and her friends from Dorset walked down from Fernhill Farm to join in the fun.

Chew Valley Buzz Group

Volunteers served tea and cakes

Crockery smashing was popular

Fairground rides were popular

Details: www.chewmagnasociety.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 89

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:52

Page 36

MENDIP TIMES

Backwell Festival success Headliner Doreen Doreen

East Harptree Fete

East Harptree Court provided the perfect setting

BACKWELL Festival reached new heights, with attendance over the 1,000 mark setting a new record, with favourites Doreen Doreen making their festival debut, delivering a storming headline set.

Festival organiser Jane Sabherwal said: “Since the first Backwell Festival in 2009, we’ve gone from strength to strength, and this year has been our busiest and most varied yet – it is great to see so many adults and children enjoying themselves.”

Story time was popular

Photography courtesy of John Seaman

Youngsters have fun

PAGE 90 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

And those enjoying the music

Adrian Jay entertained with his home-made guitar

Events feature:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:52

Page 37

Holcombe Old Church Fete

EVENTS

Barton St. David Carnival

Thank you! Maurice Biggs was presented with an aerial photograph of the village having retired after 28 years as clerk of the parish council

World famous fantasy artist Rodney Matthews, who grew up in Paulton and Farrington Gurney, gave a talk in St Andrew’s church about his work with some of the world’s most famous heavy metal bands, producing artwork for their album covers. Rodney, who now lives in North Wales, has also produced work for John Cleese and the late Gerry Anderson, the creator of Thunderbirds

The Rev. Clarissa Cridland welcomes visitors to the fete

Ray Campbell, a Priston Jubilee Morris side musician arrives at the fete in the middle of a storm

Katie Fox (left) and Debbie Francis serve Pimms and strawberries

Dan Britton talks to a customer about his low-maintenance and sustainable food project which he has established on a half-acre site on the edge of the village.

Plotgate Ventures aims to encourage people to look at community-based food in a new way.

Visit: www.plotgtate.org

Fraser (left) and Edward with their winning entry in the village’s duck character competition: Darth Vader MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 91

Riding section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:19

Page 92

MENDIP TIMES

B a n w e l l b r in g s a h a v e n f o r m a n y RUTH and Steve Caiger, who run the Banwell Equestrian Centre, provide an amazing source of training, inspiration and help to many young people as well, as providing excellent levels of equestrian tuition.

They bought the centre in 2008 and Ruth With CELIA immediately started teaching there, as well as GADD running a busy livery yard and competition centre. Ruth has an excellent reputation as a riding instructor, making a real difference to a wide range of pupils, young and old, experienced and novices alike.

Her acute attention to detail and endless patience make her a popular and effective choice as an instructor.

Her husband Steve, who is a trained counsellor, runs a reengagement package for demotivated young people and works on improving their self-confidence and self-esteem through a variety of activities, as well as riding and stable management.

It is not the first time that horses have been used to help people who have personal challenges; they are commonly used for people with learning difficulties and disabilities and they often provide an immense feeling of achievement and deep connection for the pupils that is hard for them to find elsewhere.

Ruth has had some amazing riding success with some of the pupils that have been on the scheme. For some of them this was literally their last chance saloon as they have been thrown out of school, live in care and have very little prospects or opportunities – and so it is fantastic that they can find peace, motivation and inspiration from the horses.

A recent pupil went from scratch to winning a prize at a dressage competition through her stay and many of them improve beyond recognition within just a few weeks.

Steve is an extremely talented and versatile man with lots of skills up his sleeve and he has an amazing empathy with people. It is his ability to find an interest with these challenging youngsters which makes such a powerful impact on them. For many of his more difficult pupils he has spent time really working out what they are interested in and what they would like to do and it is very common for him to be teaching them music, painting, building

August 2014 show dates

Friday 1st – Sunday 3rd Gatcombe Park Festival of British Eventing Saturday 2nd Trec Qualifier at Lower Burrow Farm, Martock Unaffiliated show jumping at Badgworth Arena Sunday 3rd Horse Agility Summer fun at Conquest Centre Wincanton Open Horse Show Junior BSJA at Badgworth

PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Arena Monday 4th In Hand showing clinic at Badgworth Arena Wednesday 6th Lower show jumping at Badgworth Arena Friday 8th South West Show Jumping Club at Chard Equestrian Saturday 9th Emborough Mendip Horse Show Polden and Bridgwater Riding

things and spending time canoeing down the river, all to try and find the internal desire to improve their lives and go onto further education or to find a job.

The success rate of these pupils then going on to college courses, jobs and generally having a much improved quality of life is really high and so Steve and Ruth’s services are much in demand.

The pupils come from a variety of different funded schemes, as well as some private homes as well. However, this service is also available privately to people who think this would be of benefit.

It is obvious that Ruth and Steve really care about helping – this does not have the feel of a commercial enterprise, more of a large and open family unit which welcomes people readily with no prejudgment or discrimination whatsoever, despite some of their very difficult backgrounds.

I really hope that this facility is able to continue providing this much needed facility for many years to come.

Club members fun day Monday 11th Pole Clinic at Badgworth Arena Wednesday 13th Higher show jumping at Badgworth Arena Friday 15th Dunster show at Dunster Castle lawns Sunday 17th Mid Somerset Show at Bath and West Showground

Wednesday 20th Junior BSJA at Badgworth Arena Wednesday 27th Higher show jumping at Badgworth Arena Saturday 30th Treborough Hill British Eventing Affiliated dressage at Badgworth Arena Sunday 31st SSAD Veteran Show at Stretcholt Equestrian Centre

Riding section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:20

Page 93

Annual dressage championship MID Somerset Riding Club recently held their annual dressage festival at Wincanton Racecourse. This year the focus was on the preliminary tests with a championship for riders who are not affiliated to either British Dressage or

British Eventing and also an open category championship.

The competition was open to both members and non members and the standard was high and some of the scoring very close. In the restricted championship the winner was Mid Somerset member Trelawney Wylie from Evercreech on a young horse that is obviously destined for greater things, with the reserve spot going to a non-member, Sophie Woollacombe.

In the Open Championship, the winner was again a Mid Somerset member, Sophie Savage from Milborne Port, riding her lovely mare Sweet Pea, with the runner up spot going to non-member Daisy Cotton on her striking Dun

Summer Activity Days

RIDING pony.

The dressage theme has continued with a competition held at South Barrow Equestrian by kind permission of Mr Ed Hobbs and winners were: Cl 1 1st Felix (Katie Butler) 2nd Adam (Isabel Glazebrook) 3rd Toners Pintada (Katie Butler) 4th Bremhill (Becky Cawley) 5th Adam 6th Anya (Helen Taylor) Cl 2 (Restricted) 1st Wheres Dids (Abbie Lott) 2nd JJ (Emma Uffindell) 3rd Bremhill 4th JJ 5th Cheeky (Amanda Bown) 6th Anya Cl 2 (Open) 1st Cracker (Amanda Bown) 2nd Welcome Summer (Taddy Barrington Hayes) 3rd Welcome Summer 4th Sweet

Pea 5th Toners Pintada 6th Fleur (Anita Wilcox) Cl 3 Open 1st Barney (Tiffany Ogden) 2nd Danny (Amanda Bown) 3rd William (Tiffany Ogden) 4th Xantus (Lesley Heaton).

PONY/RECREATIONAL PADDOCKS FOR SALE AT DEANE, BETWEEN SHEPTON MALLET & FROME

2 Paddocks, approx. 4.5 acres each, south facing, set 150 metres back from main road, in a peaceful setting with pleasant views over surrounding countryside.

Set in an excellent horse riding area, each paddock has direct access onto a well-used bridle path which leads to a network of other bridle paths in large public woodlands near quiet country roads.

Both paddocks have good free-draining soil, water, with planning passed for mixed equestrian and agricultural use. Wide, stoned, main road access, and both paddocks have wide, stoned tracks along their full length. Located in a neighbourhood watch area.

Assistance with fencing, ménage building, etc. is available if required.

To be auctioned in September please ring for further details on 01749 673428 or 07801 347287

J.B. Equestrian Services Livery, Schooling, Instruction Facilities for Hire

Bring your own Horse/Ponies for a full days training and fun

Normal Lessons Private or Groups still available throughout school holidays for Adults and Children. Bring your Own Horse/Pony or have a Lesson on one of ours.

Livery DIY, Part, Full, Schooling & Holiday Livery available.

Purpose built stable yard and New American Barn style stables.

Fantastic facilities including – 2 x All Weather Arenas, Show Jump Paddock with XC Jumps, Wash Box, Meeting Room, Tuck Shop, Saddlery Goods for sale, Free Lorry/ Trailer Parking.

Reduced Price Lessons. Plus other excellent facilities.

British Horse Society Approved Riding School & Livery Yard (Highest Rating) Local Authority Licensed Riding School Hill Farm Equestrian, Hill Farm, Burtle, Bridgwater, Somerset TA7 8NB 01278 723415 or 07891 555151 or 07977 122047 Hillfarmequestrian.com or hillfarmequestrian@hotmail.co.uk

Liveries – short/long term incl full, schooling/problem solving, holiday and producing for comp/sale.

Pre-race fittening.

Lessons available with your own horse.

Regular dressage and Showjumping competitions.

Tel: 07889 065301 01275 892629

Email: j.bodman@btconnect.com

The Stables, Maesknoll Farm, Norton Lane, Pensford, Bristol BS39 4EZ

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 93

Riding section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:20

Page 94

MENDIP TIMES

Jayne’s passion to succeed

RIDING isn’t just a passing hobby for some people – it’s an all-consuming passion. Jayne Smith, from Cheddar, got the bug as a youngster and is still working hard to realise her riding ambitions. Her story will strike a chord with many riders struggling to make a living and maintain their riding skills.

“HORSES, horses, horses or should I say ‘ponies’, was all I ever thought about. By the age of four my non-horsey parents who had tried to encourage other interests, ballet being one of them, relented and bought me my first pony.

On reflection, me being a hyperactive child, this was a good move.

I spent most of my idyllic pre-teen days trotting and cantering about the Somerset countryside with friends on our shaggy little ponies.

Through my teens I became more competitive and was fortunate to compete at the highest level of show jumping, dressage and pony club eventing.

I was just a blessed to have a classically minded trainer who introduced me to the ‘ways’ of the Spanish Riding School. I learnt then that the phrase ‘It takes time, I have time’ not only applies to the training of the horse but in the way we all learn. Also that we all learn different things, in different ways, at different times, at different speeds.

During my teenage years we were not financially well off and it took a huge amount of work, time, love and commitment from all the family to survive.

I look back at these times as incredibly happy and still find it hard to believe what we managed to do with so little.

At 17, while working in an equine physio yard, I acquired my riding instructor’s certificate. I then set up and ran my own livery yard and worked as a freelance instructor teaching all abilities, whilst competing regularly in many horse disciplines including 3DE. But changes were on the horizon. When my son, Daniel, now 28, was born I put the equestrian business on ‘hold’ to give me time to enjoy and be with him as much as I could.

As he reached school age I started looking for employment opportunities (returning to my equestrian career was not an option) and I spent a short time working as a deli assistant.

I then noticed that the local secondary school was advertising a post for an LSA. This took my eye, I’ve always enjoyed and gained considerable satisfaction from sharing my knowledge with others, helping them to achieve and I always find I learn things from them along the way too!

This was the beginning of an enjoyable, satisfying and fulfilling time in education. Initially I was employed for a child with a life-shortening physical disability. I then worked with students who required learning, emotional and behavioural support.

Over time I took every opportunity available to enhance my career, eventually specialising in maths. I fast tracked my HLTA and was then soon offered a non-qualified teacher post six years ago. I have taught full time year 7-11 since then.

I have been consistently judged good/outstanding in school and Ofsted inspections. During this time I have often home tutored students helping, advising and encouraging them to achieve their potential.

Throughout, I have regularly instructed at pony club rallies and taken on the main organising of residential camps, organising rotas and evening activities. I also regularly judge dressage competitions – the next is at Brent Knoll on August 2nd.

I have continued to compete with my horses – albeit at a much lower level and my aim is to free up more time to purse my passion whilst then working with students to help and encourage them to achieve their educational targets in a confident and positive manner.

I now feel that it is time to explore other opportunities to work alongside my lifestyle choices.”

Jayne, who has two horses, Ruby (pictured) and Poppy, is setting up her own home tutoring maths business, which she hopes will give her more time for her riding commitments during the day.

Since she enjoys both teaching and riding, she now hopes to combine the best of both worlds, inspiring all of her students to achieve their ambitions.

Details: getthegrade123@gmail.com 07791 652273.

PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Jayne Smith and Ruby

Riding section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:20

Page 95

RIDING

Sweet success for Steph and team

STEPHANIE Sweet had “one of the best days of her competitive career”, whilst competing at the Badminton Dressage championships on July 16th. Joining her in the winning team from the Brent Knoll Riding Club were Sue Francis on the Running Total and Tara Millard on Bypro R. Steph was riding Week Orchard Recos Light in the competition and because she had the top score out of the three team members she was then automatically entered into the Individual Riding Club championship which she won outright.

Steph was riding Sarah Banwell’s chestnut gelding and the plan is to qualify for the regional finals at novice and elementary level. Steph is not only a very talented rider but she has also shown extreme stamina and determination in achieving this success

Join our party!

(Left to right) Steph Sweet, Sue Francis and Tara Millard

as she has recently suffered some serious personal health challenges.

The Brent Knoll Riding Club team were ably organised by Hilary Lewis, who is the chairman, and the delighted coach was Julie Hayes.

Steph then also entered the ‘Middle of the Road’ class on Lorraine Curtin

Blair’s Bally Gunner Pete and when she saw the size of the class decided she would be extremely pleased to come in the top 15. So it topped her day off brilliantly when she finished in second place just a whisker away from the winner.

Well done Steph!

Join us to celebrate our 1st Birthday!

Saturday, August 30th 9.30am-5.30pm

20% Off

Lin and Kerry in the Old Mills Tack Shop

LIN Rafferty and daughter Kerry have to keep pinching themselves to believe that they are about to celebrate the first anniversary of opening Old Mills Tack Shop in Paulton – they are having so much fun!

Lin said: “The past 12 months have simply flown by. It’s great to be able to go to work and talk about horses all day!”

The shop is on the Old Mills Industrial Estate and the pair believe much of the success of the business is down to listening to their customers. Kerry said: “If customers ask us to stock something in particular then we will always try to provide it.

“We also try to keep our prices at a reasonable level to allow people to shop locally yet still get good value.”

Lin and Kerry – who is about to enrol on a course to allow the shop to sell worming treatments – have introduced new brands and new suppliers at the shop, which will be the venue for a birthday party on Saturday, August 30th with lots of special offers and treats.

Everything In Store Sale Items & Special Offers Prize Draw with Great Prizes Free Tack Marking (2-5.30pm) Product Talks & Demos Birthday Cake & Refreshments

Please visit our website for full details: www.oldmillstackshop.co.uk Unit 1, Old Mills Industrial Estate, Paulton, Bristol BS39 7SU. Tel: 01761 412819

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 95

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:56

Page 96

MENDIP TIMES

Cheddar says: hello sailors!

By Mark Adler

EXPERIENCED and novice sailors were welcomed to Cheddar Reservoir at Axbridge when Bristol Corinthians Yacht Club hosted a weekend competition and an open day in the space of just two weeks.

The club staged one of the 2000 Millennium series races being held around the country, attracting 15 boats from across the country.

The 2000, which used to be known as the Laser 2000, is an increasingly-popular – and often fast – boat for two people.

The weekend competition was organised by the 2000 Class Association and Rob and Katie Burridge, from Weir Wood A wave from sailing club commodore Bob Jones as he crews for Martin Jones

Sailing Club in East Sussex took the honours; helm Chris Baker and crew Robert Naylor were the highest BCYC pairing in seventh.

BCYC’s Open Day attracted a good-

The start of the first race

sized number of visitors who were able to learn more about dinghy sailing, windsurfing and the club’s Royal Yachting Association approved training courses.

Natalie Roach and Alex Pickles from the Royal Navy SA with Ship Faced Cheddar Reservoir provides ideal inland racing set against the Mendip Hills Crews head for the start of the first race

For more information about BCYC at Cheddar Sailing, visit: www.bcyc.org.uk PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:56

Page 97

Paulton Rovers celebrate

PAULTON Rovers were treated to a reception at the Guildhall in Bath, after achieving their highest level ever as a club, by being promoted to the Southern Premier League. It was hosted by the chair of B&NES, Cllr. Martin Veal and attended by members of the team and backroom staff, manager, Nick Bunyard, chairman, Dave Bissex, the chair of Paulton parish council, LesWild and his wife Marion, and local district councillors, John Bull and Liz Hardman.

Shooting stars

MIDSOMER Norton Target Shooting Club has made history by winning the Somerset Division 1 title for the first time in the club’s history. The club’s A Team, featuring (l to r) Dan Warren, Matt Clement, Tony Clement and Kev York triumphed in the winter league, which involves firing .22 calibre target rifles on indoor ranges.

The club’s C Team, one of four representing our area, also had cause to celebrate, winning Somerset Division 5, while A Team member Dan Warren won the Somerset Open competition and will now represent Somerset at the Champion of Champions event at the National Championships in Bisley, later this year.

Anyone for tennis?

SPORT

PENSFORD Tennis Club has a new coach, Peter Coniglio, who has been a full-time LTA professional tennis coach for over 21 years.

Sue Grimes, chair of the club, said: “I am confident that Peter’s expertise will motivate juniors and adults in the Publow and Pensford area to play tennis and to develop a high level of skills.”

Details: 07724 831290 peter@tennislessonstoday.com or at www.pensfordtennisclub.co.uk

Pensford promoted

PENSFORD Football Club, which was disbanded at the end of the 2008/9 season and re-formed in 2010, has been promoted to the Somerset County League for the first time in its 100-year history, joining Timsbury, Peasedown, Welton and Chilcompton clubs, which have also been promoted.

The club was re-established by Steve Harrison, whose vision was to see his side reach the Somerset county division within five years. Starting in Division 3, it won promotion in successive years and won Division 1 this year without losing a single league game.

The club welcomes new players.

Details: Steve Harrison 07932 812482 or Dan Tweedy 07794 226315.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 97

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:56

Page 98

MENDIP TIMES

Pilot gigs invade the Bristol Channel

CLEVEDON Pilot Gig Club was formed in 2009 by a group of six enthusiasts who were inspired to establish the first fixed-seat rowing club in Somerset.

Thanks to fundraising activities, sponsorship from a local company, and a grant from Sport England, they raised enough funds to commission their first gig, and in March 2010 Watch and Pray was launched.

Victory in Appledore

Since then, membership has soared and following further grants and sponsorship from companies such as Churngold Construction and Butcombe Brewery, several more craft have been purchased. The club now boasts six boats and 130 members of all ages, from primary school children to pensioners.

Links with local schools and charities such as Urban Pursuits in Bristol ensure

The men in action

the club is firmly connected to the community. The exploits of the rowers have even been made into an awardwinning documentary, “Blood Sweat and Oars”, which was screened at Clevedon’s Curzon cinema last year.

This year has been an exciting year for the club, with crews in all categories from under-14 and 16 through to super-veterans (over 50s) starting to enjoy some well-deserved success. The club improved its ranking at the World Championships and there have been wins recently at Teignmouth and Appledore.

In the club’s short history much has been achieved and Clevedon is now one of the biggest clubs in the sport with a growing and enthusiastic membership.

Emma Cole Details: www.clevedonpilotgigclub.co.uk

Cornish Pilot Gig rowing

CORNISH Pilot Gigs are 32-foot six-oared open boats originally designed to transport maritime pilots to the sailing ships arriving in British waters from distant shores. Pilots would compete for business by racing to meet incoming vessels, resulting in one of the fastest, strongest and most seaworthy craft ever constructed.

Nowadays gig racing is done solely for pleasure, with clubs competing across the South West and beyond. A crew comprises six rowers, three on each side, and a coxswain. The official season starts with the World Pilot Gig Championships on the Isles of Scilly in May and ends with the Newquay County Championships in September, with numerous regattas taking place in-between.

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Clevedon Tides Festival

CLEVEDON Pilot Gig Club will be in action at the Clevedon Tides Festival on the weekend of September 20th and 21st, with have-a-go sessions on the Marine Lake and a race along the sea front on the Sunday.

The festival will celebrate the 85th anniversary of the lake before it undergoes refurbishment next year, as well as offering wide range of events, attractions, fireworks and its inaugural pushball competition.

Details: www.facebook.com/clevedontides

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:56

Page 99

SPORT

Bouled over by tournament success!

THEY came, they played – they drank and ate a lot – but in the end it was down to two veteran teams to battle it out in the final of this year’s Wells Charity Boules Tournament.

The Untouchaboules were beaten by The Drinkaboules; both teams played in the original contest back in 2000 and have been regular players in the intervening years. This year’s event saw more than 50 teams compete on temporary pistes created in front of Wells Town Hall.

Money from entry fees, sponsorship of individual pistes, raffle and donations raised just over £4,600, the majority of which will go to support Nepal Trust projects, including a birthing centre in a remote part of the country. The remainder of the funds are distributed by the rotary clubs of Wells and Avalon for local charities.

Adrian Lawrence, one of the organisers of the event, said: “The Boules has become a Mike Love (left) and Adrian popular fixture in Wells’s Lawrence, two of the calendar. This year we had a tournament organisers

A total of 52 teams took part

Nick Denison, from the Summats Up team, finds time for a wave

Le Bar (Sally and Malcolm Smele and Debbie and Ian Paris) prepare to take on members of the Rotary Club of Shepton Mallet

super mix of teams that have played in several, if not all tournaments over the years, with a good number of teams new to the event. We were pleased to see two of our ‘regulars’ through to the final.”

He added: “The Boules would not be possible without the incredible efforts of so many working hard to make the day such a success and we have so many to thank. Avalon Rotary and Wells Rugby Club set-up and cleared down the boules pistes outside Wells Town Hall, with LA Moore supplying the material for pistes, as well as transporting it to and from the Market Place.

“Wells City Council allowed us the use of the ground floor at the Town Hall, where our amazing team from The Crown worked flat out ensuring everyone was kept refreshed and fed throughout the day, aided by volunteers from Wells Rotary Club.”

Two youngsters try their hands

The Panama jazz Band entertains

For information on the work of The Nepal Trust, visit www.nepaltrust.org MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 99

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:16

Page 96

MENDIP TIMES

Cheddar says: hello sailors!

By Mark Adler

EXPERIENCED and novice sailors were welcomed to Cheddar Reservoir at Axbridge when Bristol Corinthians Yacht Club hosted a weekend competition and an open day in the space of just two weeks.

The club staged one of the 2000 Millennium series races being held around the country, attracting 15 boats from across the country.

The 2000, which used to be known as the Laser 2000, is an increasingly-popular – and often fast – boat for two people.

The weekend competition was organised by the 2000 Class Association and Rob and Katie Burridge, from Weir Wood A wave from sailing club commodore Bob Jones as he crews for Martin Jones

Sailing Club in East Sussex took the honours; helm Chris Baker and crew Robert Naylor were the highest BCYC pairing in seventh.

BCYC’s Open Day attracted a good-

The start of the first race

sized number of visitors who were able to learn more about dinghy sailing, windsurfing and the club’s Royal Yachting Association approved training courses.

Natalie Roach and Alex Pickles from the Royal Navy SA with Ship Faced Cheddar Reservoir provides ideal inland racing set against the Mendip Hills Crews head for the start of the first race

For more information about BCYC at Cheddar Sailing, visit: www.bcyc.org.uk PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:16

Page 97

Paulton Rovers celebrate

PAULTON Rovers were treated to a reception at the Guildhall in Bath, after achieving their highest level ever as a club, by being promoted to the Southern Premier League. It was hosted by the chair of B&NES, Cllr. Martin Veal and attended by members of the team and backroom staff, manager, Nick Bunyard, chairman, Dave Bissex, the chair of Paulton parish council, LesWild and his wife Marion, and local district councillors, John Bull and Liz Hardman.

Shooting stars

MIDSOMER Norton Target Shooting Club has made history by winning the Somerset Division 1 title for the first time in the club’s history. The club’s A Team, featuring (l to r) Dan Warren, Matt Clement, Tony Clement and Kev York triumphed in the winter league, which involves firing .22 calibre target rifles on indoor ranges.

The club’s C Team, one of four representing our area, also had cause to celebrate, winning Somerset Division 5, while A Team member Dan Warren won the Somerset Open competition and will now represent Somerset at the Champion of Champions event at the National Championships in Bisley, later this year.

Anyone for tennis?

SPORT

PENSFORD Tennis Club has a new coach, Peter Coniglio, who has been a full-time LTA professional tennis coach for over 21 years.

Sue Grimes, chair of the club, said: “I am confident that Peter’s expertise will motivate juniors and adults in the Publow and Pensford area to play tennis and to develop a high level of skills.”

Details: 07724 831290 peter@tennislessonstoday.com or at www.pensfordtennisclub.co.uk

Pensford promoted

PENSFORD Football Club, which was disbanded at the end of the 2008/9 season and re-formed in 2010, has been promoted to the Somerset County League for the first time in its 100-year history, joining Timsbury, Peasedown, Welton and Chilcompton clubs, which have also been promoted.

The club was re-established by Steve Harrison, whose vision was to see his side reach the Somerset county division within five years. Starting in Division 3, it won promotion in successive years and won Division 1 this year without losing a single league game.

The club welcomes new players.

Details: Steve Harrison 07932 812482 or Dan Tweedy 07794 226315.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 97

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:16

Page 98

MENDIP TIMES

Pilot gigs invade the Bristol Channel

CLEVEDON Pilot Gig Club was formed in 2009 by a group of six enthusiasts who were inspired to establish the first fixed-seat rowing club in Somerset.

Thanks to fundraising activities, sponsorship from a local company, and a grant from Sport England, they raised enough funds to commission their first gig, and in March 2010 Watch and Pray was launched.

Victory in Appledore

Since then, membership has soared and following further grants and sponsorship from companies such as Churngold Construction and Butcombe Brewery, several more craft have been purchased. The club now boasts six boats and 130 members of all ages, from primary school children to pensioners.

Links with local schools and charities such as Urban Pursuits in Bristol ensure

The men in action

the club is firmly connected to the community. The exploits of the rowers have even been made into an awardwinning documentary, “Blood Sweat and Oars”, which was screened at Clevedon’s Curzon cinema last year.

This year has been an exciting year for the club, with crews in all categories from under-14 and 16 through to super-veterans (over 50s) starting to enjoy some well-deserved success. The club improved its ranking at the World Championships and there have been wins recently at Teignmouth and Appledore.

In the club’s short history much has been achieved and Clevedon is now one of the biggest clubs in the sport with a growing and enthusiastic membership.

Emma Cole Details: www.clevedonpilotgigclub.co.uk

Cornish Pilot Gig rowing

CORNISH Pilot Gigs are 32-foot six-oared open boats originally designed to transport maritime pilots to the sailing ships arriving in British waters from distant shores. Pilots would compete for business by racing to meet incoming vessels, resulting in one of the fastest, strongest and most seaworthy craft ever constructed.

Nowadays gig racing is done solely for pleasure, with clubs competing across the South West and beyond. A crew comprises six rowers, three on each side, and a coxswain. The official season starts with the World Pilot Gig Championships on the Isles of Scilly in May and ends with the Newquay County Championships in September, with numerous regattas taking place in-between.

PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

Clevedon Tides Festival

CLEVEDON Pilot Gig Club will be in action at the Clevedon Tides Festival on the weekend of September 20th and 21st, with have-a-go sessions on the Marine Lake and a race along the sea front on the Sunday.

The festival will celebrate the 85th anniversary of the lake before it undergoes refurbishment next year, as well as offering wide range of events, attractions, fireworks and its inaugural pushball competition.

Details: www.facebook.com/clevedontides

Sport section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:16

Page 99

SPORT

Bouled over by tournament success!

THEY came, they played – they drank and ate a lot – but in the end it was down to two veteran teams to battle it out in the final of this year’s Wells Charity Boules Tournament.

The Untouchaboules were beaten by The Drinkaboules; both teams played in the original contest back in 2000 and have been regular players in the intervening years. This year’s event saw more than 50 teams compete on temporary pistes created in front of Wells Town Hall.

Money from entry fees, sponsorship of individual pistes, raffle and donations raised just over £4,600, the majority of which will go to support Nepal Trust projects, including a birthing centre in a remote part of the country. The remainder of the funds are distributed by the rotary clubs of Wells and Avalon for local charities.

Adrian Lawrence, one of the organisers of the event, said: “The Boules has become a Mike Love (left) and Adrian popular fixture in Wells’s Lawrence, two of the calendar. This year we had a tournament organisers

A total of 52 teams took part

Nick Denison, from the Summats Up team, finds time for a wave

Le Bar (Sally and Malcolm Smele and Debbie and Ian Paris) prepare to take on members of the Rotary Club of Shepton Mallet

super mix of teams that have played in several, if not all tournaments over the years, with a good number of teams new to the event. We were pleased to see two of our ‘regulars’ through to the final.”

He added: “The Boules would not be possible without the incredible efforts of so many working hard to make the day such a success and we have so many to thank. Avalon Rotary and Wells Rugby Club set-up and cleared down the boules pistes outside Wells Town Hall, with LA Moore supplying the material for pistes, as well as transporting it to and from the Market Place.

“Wells City Council allowed us the use of the ground floor at the Town Hall, where our amazing team from The Crown worked flat out ensuring everyone was kept refreshed and fed throughout the day, aided by volunteers from Wells Rotary Club.”

Two youngsters try their hands

The Panama jazz Band entertains

For information on the work of The Nepal Trust, visit www.nepaltrust.org MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 99

Music DPS:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:15

Page 46

MENDIP TIMES

MUSIC

Songwriting dying out?

That’ll be the day!

By Mark Adler

IT is a glorious summer’s day at Pennard House near Shepton Mallet and the rooms and gardens – and even the hallway – are alive with the sound of music.

Huddled around guitars and keyboards and clutching notebooks, groups of three are working to write a completely new song which they will have to perform live that evening. Most had never met before the retreat and are now exploring each other’s skills.

Welcome to a Chris Difford songwriting retreat. The awardwinning writer and performer – best know as part of the genius that is Squeeze – is acting as the facilitator. But Chris is worried: he fears that the art and skills of songwriting are at a crossroads, if not up a junction. He says: “Songwriting is a craft like carpentry but it’s in danger of dying out like so many traditional skills.

Music these days is all about production; it’s too much of a factory.”

Chris is working with the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation – founded by the songwriter and musician’s widow Maria Elena and Peter Bradley senior – to keep the spirit of songwriting alive and not fade away. Chris chose Pennard House as this year’s venue after staying there previously and all agree it is an inspired choice.

Chris is being helped at the retreat by, amongst others, Peter Bradley junior, from the BHEF, songwriter Chris Sheehan and

Making music – the songwriters had to come up with at least one new song each day

Chris Difford (seated left with Peter Bradley jnr) in the gardens of Pennard House. Behind them are Chris Sheehan and Sean Devine

Sean Devine, an A&R expert who also represents ASCAP, the United States version of the Performing Rights Society.

Just as inspiring as their surroundings is the decision on one of the days to set the writers the task of coming up with a song in the style of Buddy Holly. Some, like up-and-coming singer/songwriter Dom Harrison, are too young to know much about the musician.

Dom said: “It’s been really chilled here. I’ve written ten songs so far this week.

“I know of Buddy Holly but hadn’t really listened to his music until now.”

Peter believes there is much to be learned from Buddy Holly’s music: deceptively simple, catchy, often with humour and songs that tell a story.

Chris and Peter hope to make the Pennard House retreat an annual event and to subsidise future workshops to nurture novice writers. It might just provide the inspiration for a whole new generation.

For information, visit: www.tbhef.org and www.chrisdiffordsongwritingretreat.com

Boys own

BOYS aged 11 plus have an opportunity to fine tune their singing skills with like-minded lads in a boys’ only section of Cheddar Valley Voices.

Set up nearly a year ago to cater for those who love singing (but perhaps not in the company of girls!) the group is looking for new members for September. So far the singers have enjoyed covering a range of songs under the direction of Kate Lynch.

If you enjoy singing yourself, Cheddar Valley Adult Voices meets on Monday evenings and all children, aged eight plus, are welcome after school on Tuesdays.

Details: Kate on 07595 745884 or email – voices@cheddarvalleymusic.co.uk

PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

What's On section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:13

Page 101

Festival stars to shine at Extravaganza

WHAT’S ON

Rising star George Ezra

A WORLD-famous star and a rising star from this year’s Glastonbury Festival will take to the stage at this year’s Glastonbury Extravaganza in August.

Young singing sensation George Ezra, from Bristol, will be one of the support acts to Led Zeppelin legend Robert Plant at Glastonbury Abbey on Saturday, August 9th.

George, who headlined Glastonbury Festival’s BBC Introducing Stage and performed a set on the John Peel Stage this year, has seen a top three chart debut for his album Wanted On Voyage and has just announced a full UK tour for October.

Festival founder and extravaganza host Michael Eavis said: “George Ezra is the West Country hero of the moment! He played a fantastic set at the festival this year and is bound to be a big hit at the Abbey. A perfect support act for Robert Plant.”

Four-piece band, Wildflowers, will be the first act to take to the stage on the night, followed by George and then Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters. The musical celebrations will end with the traditional firework display.

G Advance ticket prices are £35 adult and £20 for an accompanied child aged six to 16. Gate prices are £40 adult, £25 for a child aged six to 16. Accompanied children aged five and under do not require a ticket.

For information, visit: www.glastonburyabbey.com/Extravaganza

WIN TICKETS

Mendip Times has teamed up with the Extravaganza to offer one reader the chance to win a pair of tickets for the night.

To enter please answer the following question: what is the name of George Ezra’s album? Please send your answer on a postcard – BY WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6th PLEASE – to Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, BS40 7RG. The first correct answer chosen will win the tickets which must be collected from the extravaganza office by the entrance to the event on the night. The editor’s decision is final.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 101

What's On section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:13

Page 102

MENDIP TIMES

Susan supports her local show Welcome to the show: Susan Tanner with a four-day-old piglet

Frome Young Farmers Charity Family Fun Dog Show!

Saturday 16th August 2014 Southfield House Whatley, Frome BA11 3JY

Mendip Times reduces travel costs

By Kind Permission of Mrs A Yeoman, Rob and Katrina Lintott.

Commencing at 11am Rosettes to 6th place £2.50 per class – proceeds to Young Farmers and Guide Dogs Burger van, photographer, stalls and entertainment!

For schedules or more info contact 07714 626668 or email fromeyfc@outlook.com and find it on Facebook.

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

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

COMING UP: From Friday 1st August

Earth to Echo (PG) • Guardians Of The Galaxy (12A) 3D/2D • Step Up All In (PG) 3D/2D Nut Job (U) • Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes (12A) 3D/2D • Pudsey (U)

From Friday 8th August

Planes 2 (U) 3D/2D • Inbetweeners 2 (15-tbc) Dark Journey (U) Fri 7.30pm (part of our WWI season)

From Friday 15th August

The Unbeatables (U-tbc)

From Friday 22nd August House of Magic (PG) 3D/2D • Lucy (tbc)

From Friday 5th September One Hundred Foot Journey (PG) book now!!

G Book in person G Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk G Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

PAGE 102 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

SHOWING livestock can be a daunting experience for even the most hardened exhibitor which is why Susan Tanner is determined to bring a smile to people’s faces.

Susan, who lives near Wells, will be overseeing the pig classes at this year’s Mid Somerset Agricultural Show on Sunday, August 17th.

As well as showing her own Oxford Sandy Black pigs from her Windwhistle Herd, Susan will have several Red Poll cattle competing at the one-day show at the Shepton Mallet Showground.

Susan believes it is vital that people support their local agricultural shows and was delighted when she was asked to become a steward. She said: “I am relatively new to showing livestock and I didn’t have a clue what was going on when I first started out. It’s not as though I’ve been involved as a child, so it was quite daunting.

“When I was asked if I’d don a white coat and steward I decided that I should go out of my way to make everyone welcome and feel relaxed.”

With a career in the events industry – including several as director of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta – Susan believes a visit to an agricultural show should be an enjoyable experience for exhibitors and visitors alike. It should also be an educational one: “I really feel that people have become displaced from where their food comes from and shows are a great chance to talk to people about different breeds.”

Susan calls her Oxford Sandy Blacks “Mendip Plum Pudding Pigs” because of their distinctive markings and sells meat online or via word-of-mouth. She also sells weaner pigs for other people to take on. Her Red Poll cattle are dual-purpose – providing milk and beef.

What's On section:Layout 1

24/7/14

15:13

Page 103

WHAT’S ON

E is for excellence!

EXCITEMENT, entertainment and epicurean excellence are at the heart of the programme now being finalised for this year’s Frome Show on Saturday, September 13th.

Excitement will be provided by Titan the Robot who will be out and about around the showground throughout the day and by the Knights of the Damned Jousting Team who will be staging a medieval jousting display on the Village Green.

Entertainment will come from attractions including the Black Rock Llama display team, Cyril the Squirrel and Pony Club games along with show jumping and scurry and pony racing.

Visitors admire the entries in the Global Cheese Awards

A bird’s eye view of the village green

Award-winning chef Jean-Christophe Novelli will be cooking up some epicurean delights in the Cheese Pavilion – the home of the Global Cheese Awards – where he will be sharing some of the culinary secrets which have earned him the title of “Britain’s favourite French chef”.

But it is not just cheese for which Frome Show has become well known amongst food enthusiasts: the Fine Foods Hall, where traditional British artisan foods vie for space with more exotic offerings from overseas, and the Local Food Hall which has given a major boost to many small producers from the area

around Frome, have become the “go to” places for show visitors.

Show Secretary Brenda Scott said: “Everything that’s needed to help make Frome Show 2014 yet another success when we open to the public on Saturday, September 13th is falling neatly into place but we could still have a number of last minute surprises up our sleeves.”

G Schedules, which include full details of every competition and how to enter them, can be downloaded from the show’s website – www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk – where there are also details of savings on admission prices by buying tickets in advance.

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 103

What's On section:Layout 1

24/7/14

MENDIP TIMES

T h e

15:13

Page 104

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.

TEAS will be served in St Mary’s Church, Compton Dando every Sunday between 2pm5pm and on Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August. Profits to church funds.

Every Wednesday and Saturday in August Wells Cathedral’s Stained Glass ‘Window Walk’ looking for word clues in the ‘Mosaic’ windows. Bring your binoculars. Free, no booking required, simply gather at the information desk before 11.15am. www.wellscathedral.org.uk Friday August 1st – Monday August 4th WW1 Exhibition at St Mary’s Church, Compton Dando, BS39 4LQ, 2- 5pm. Also following Sundays throughout August.

Refreshments and Art sales. Proceeds to the church, Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion.

Saturday August 2nd – Sunday August 3rd Cheddar in The Great War Exhibition, Church House, Cheddar 10am – 4.30pm.

Photos, press cuttings, stories of locals who served and those who stayed behind. Details: clerk@cheddarparishcouncil.org Saturday August 2nd Nailsea & District Horticultural Society Summer Show at a new venue – Nailsea School atrium – from 12 noon – 5pm. Details: 01275 855563 or 855342.

Sunday August 3rd Civic Service for WW1 at St Andrew’s Church, Cheddar. To mark Britain’s entry into the war, refreshments in Church House afterwards. All residents and visitors invited.

Details: clerk@cheddarparishcouncil.org Dedication of WW1 statue cast from a model of Frome man, Charlie Robbins. The dedication will take place at 3pm, the statue’s new location in the Memorial Garden of the Memorial Theatre, Frome.

Companion Dog Show at The Playing Field, Babcary, nr Somerton. Entries from 12 noon, judging from 1pm. Classes to include best child handler, best fancy dress, companion/assistance dog etc.

Refreshments. Details: 01963 350183.

Romeo and Juliet played by an all-male cast in the open air of the Bishop’s Palace Garden, Wells. 7pm, with bar and BBQ. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk Rodney Stoke – a Thankful Village – will be dedicating a commemorative plaque at St Leonard’s Church at 11am. All welcome.

Monday August 4th Poppy Bed Dedication, Wells, a candlelit vigil to dedicate a specially planted bed of poppies in memory of those who fought and died during the Great War. A service in Wells Cathedral at PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

T i m e s

10pm then a short procession to the Recreation Ground at 10.30pm. There will be a one minute silence at 11pm followed by the Last Post.

WW1 Service of Reflection, St John’s Church, Frome at 7pm followed by a candle-lit vigil at the Memorial Theatre Garden from 10pm to 11pm.

Wednesday August 6th Wells Cathedral Summer Organ Festival Recital, 7.30pm. Tickets £10, include postconcert drink, from the Cathedral shop, on the door, or www.wellscathedral.org The Story so far – Quarry Faces need your help to identify people in hundreds of photographs of local quarries and quarrymen and to date them. 7pm, Somerset Earth Science Centre, Stoke St Michael. If you need a lift please ring: Robin 01373 836571 or Ruth 01761 232898. Tea and cakes. Admission free. All welcome.

Thursday August 7th West Mendip Walkers – a 5.8 mile walk in the Quantock Hills starting at 10.30am. Start point / parking: OS Explorer 140, grid ref. 180 338.

Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk “Stone Age Bone Age” – find out what it was like to live in the Stone Age. Build shelters, hunt for food and make things out of natural materials. 2pm-4pm, Free. Black Down & Burrington Commons. Book: www.discoveringblackdown.org.uk Saturday August 9th Mark Harvest Home – following a tradition lasting over 100 years there will be a luncheon, an afternoon of children’s sports, tea and early evening disco followed by adult’s events – tug of war and local bands in the evening. Details: Mel, 01278 781887 or Ed on 01278 641460.

Dundry Church Tower Open Day, 2-4pm.

Adults £2, Children 8 – 16 £1 -please don’t bring children under 8, refreshments, arrive early for your timed ticket. Bring binoculars!

Details: 0117 9646213.

Brent Knoll Bazaar & Farmers’ Market at the Parish Hall, 10am – 12 noon, local foods & craft stalls of all kinds. Hot & cold snacks.

Entrance free, £7; to book a table contact Eddie: 01278 760308.

Mendip Society Walk, Ebbor Gorge. Meet at 2pm in the car park at Ebbor Gorge. ST 521485.

Moderate 5 mile walk with good views and a steep climb. Details: Mary 01934 843789.

Draycott & Rodney Stoke Village Show, at the Memorial Hall, Draycott from 2pm with prize-giving at 4.15pm. Plant sale, raffle and the WI’s legendary tea and cakes.

Tuesday August 12th “The Night of the Shooting Stars” – join Wells & Mendip Astronomers to watch the annual Perseid meteor shower. (Radio tracking if weather is poor). From 7.30pm, Cheddar Scout Hut and field behind Cheddar First School, BS27 3HN. Guests £3, families £5, students£2. Details:

W h a t ’ s

www.wellsastronomers.org.uk Wednesday August 13th Yeo Valley Garden and Food Days – a chance to see the garden and enjoy its produce. £50pp.

Details: www.yeovalley.co.uk Thursday August 14th West Mendip Walkers – a moderate circular 9 mile walk from Kilmersdon, OS Explorer 142 Grid: ST696525. Meet at Kilmersdon church at 10am. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Discovering Black Down Holiday Activities: join in the Bee Scene using nets and bug pots, take part in the bee survey and find out how many different types of bees are living on Black Down. 2pm-4pm. Book: www.discoveringblackdown.org.uk The Friends of Weston-super-Mare Museum, walk with local historian Chris Richards at Uphill. Please meet by the Flower Boat near the Boatyard in Uphill, 6pm. This will be about two hours. In conjunction with W-s-M Archaeological Society. £2 donation.

Friday August 15th Wedmore Harvest Home – details www.wedmorehh.com Walk at Pensford, 9.30am: Stone circles. See www.dontwalkalone.co.uk for further details.

Saturday August 16th – Monday August 25th Clevedon Arts Club – 58th Annual Open Art Exhibition, The Science Atrium, Clevedon School, BS21 6AH. Daily: 10.30am-6pm, Sundays 2pm-6pm. Admission £1. Details: www.clevedonartclub.co.uk Saturday August 16th Cheddar Flower Show at Kings of Wessex Academy, Cheddar, 2.00pm. Adults £1; children free. Craft & trade stalls, raffle, tombola, refreshments. Details: 01934 744095.

Bold Brass presents a musical extravaganza in memory of WW1 at Congresbury Memorial Hall, 7pm. Tickets £5 include refreshments, from Country Innovations, Congresbury or Elaine Bowman 01934 830271. In aid of the Memorial Hall and The Royal British Legion.

Mendip Society Walk – Velvet Bottom & Charterhouse. Meet at 2pm at the Blackmoor Reserve Car Park, BS40 7XR. ST 505557. An easy 5 miles, details: Bob, 01934 820575.

“A History of Britain” – outdoor theatre in the garden of the Bishop’s Palace, Wells, 7.30pm.

Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk The 125th Writhlington Flower Show and Fete. Writhlington Village Hall. To be opened

by Michael Eavis at 2.30pm. Free entry.

Sunday August 17th “Weird and Wonderful Wells” – a free family day celebrating the history of the City of Wells.

See the Mayor in stocks, join the fancy dress parade, gory Cathedral tours and terrifying tales of the Palace Jail. Details: www.wellscivicsociety.org.uk Wednesday August 20th Family holiday activities at Wells Cathedral, 11am-1pm. Children’s soap carving, treasure

O

15:13

G u i d e

hunt, discovery tours for adults – details: www.wellscathedral.org Thursday August 21st West Mendip Walkers – a moderate circular 10.5 mile walk near North Petherton. OS Explorer 140 Grid: ST278325.Start 10am, meet at King’s Cliff Quarry car park. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Cheddar Valley U3A – coffee morning at Church House, Cheddar, 10.30am -12 noon – all visitors welcome. We also meet in Cheddar Library every Monday 10.30am-12.Details www.cheddarvalleyu3a.org.uk or 01934 710242.

Classic Car & Motor Cycle Gathering at Redhill Village Club, BS40 5SG, 7pm-10pm.

All welcome. BBQ and drinks available. Free entry. Details: 01934 862619.

Saturday August 23rd – Monday August 25th Leigh on Mendip Flower Festival ‘The Great War Remembered’, St Giles Church BA3 5QQ, 11am-4.30pm. Photographic Exhibition of Local History 1890-1950. Refreshments in the Memorial Hall nearby. Details 01373 812889.

Saturday August 23rd Whitchurch Village Fete. Events include a Barn Dance on Saturday evening, car boot sale on Sunday and fete from 12 noon on Monday.

An opportunity to see the Beau Street Hoard of Roman coins. Details: email whitchurchvillagefete@hotmail.co.uk Bowlore Medieval Weekend at the Bishop’s Palace, Wells. 11am-5pm each day – with a medieval encampment, have-a-go archery, sword lessons, hands-on armour and weapons display.

Wells & Mendip Astronomers Open Day, 9.30am-4.30pm, Wells Town Hall, BS5 2RB. Talks, activities and family competitions. Small fee for entry to Planetarium shows, otherwise free. Details: www.wellsastronomers.org.uk Somerset Showcase in Axbridge: 10am-4pm Arts and Crafts Stalls, live entertainment and children’s activities, themed cafe. 7pm-11pm live music, BBQ and bar in the Square. Free parking. www.somersetshowcase.info Wedmore’s Fifth Annual Produce Market – over 20 stalls showcasing the best local food and produce, 9am -2pm at The Borough. To book a stall email s.mewes@virgin.net Sunday August 24th -Monday August 25th Mendip Mower Racing & Beer Festival with a kids field, live music and food. At Cross, near Cheddar. Tickets £5/day or £7 for both days. All profits to charity. Details: www.mendipmowing.co.uk Sunday August 24th Dundry Church Tower Open Day, 2-4pm.

Adults £2, Children 8 – 16 £1 -please don’t bring children under 8. Refreshments. Arrive early for your timed ticket. Bring binoculars!

Details: 0117 9646213.

Page 105

f o r

A u g u s t

Classic Car & Motor Cycle Breakfast & Auto Jumble Gathering at Redhill Village Club, BS40 5SG. From 9am – 12noon. Full English, tea, coffee, bacon rolls available.

Details: 01934 862619.

Save The Children Rodney Stoke 40th Horse Show, Companion Dog Show and Teddy Bear Show, from 9.30am. Details: Jane Holmes 01749 870467.

Coleford Village Day. Highbury Playing Fields. 11.30am. The Coleford Flower and Craft Show are holding their 116th show on the same day, commencing at 2pm, on the tennis courts adjacent to the playing fields.

Monday August 25th City of Wells Moat Boat Race. Want to participate and raise money for your charity?

Raft entries, contact Jane Miller, 07708 468269.

Teas served at St Mary’s Church, Compton Dando from 2pm-5pm.

Wednesday August 27th Backwell & Nailsea Macular Support Garden Party, (weather permitting; otherwise in the W.I. Hall).

Friends welcome, for details: Sheila, 01275 462107.

Wednesday August 27th Family holiday activities at Wells Cathedral, 11am-1pm. Children’s activities and discovery tours for adults – details: www.wellscathedral.org Yeo Valley Garden and Food Days – a chance to see the garden and enjoy its produce. £50pp.

Details: www.yeovalley.co.uk Thursday August 28th West Mendip Walkers – a moderate circular walk of 6.35 miles in the Polden Hills. OS Explorer 141 Grid:ST462364.Start 1.30pm, park near Walton church, off A39. Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk Friday August 29th Walk at Wellow, 9.30am, for circular walk to Combe Hay. See www.dontwalkalone.co.uk for further details.

Wednesday September 3rd Friends of Weston-super-Mare Museum, 7.30pm a talk by Pat Hase on ‘The Life and Times of Alfred Leete’ who was a Westonian renowned for his art especially his WW1 drawings and his poster ‘Your Country Needs You’.

Thursday September 4th Irish Set Dancing – classes resume at Dinder Village Hall every Thurs 8.30-10.30pm.

Beginners welcome – you don’t need a partner.

WHAT’S ON

2 0 1 4

Details: Paul Harper tel 01458-210051.

Friday September 5th-Sunday September 7th Meare Parish Harvest Fun Weekend, at the playing field, Muddy Lane, Meare. Friday evening race night, Saturday evening live band, flower and produce show, dog show, crafts, 5 a side football, car boot, refreshments, bar etc.

Details: 01458 860173.

Friday September 5th Yeovil Rotary’s “Last Night of the Proms” Concert with The British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, 7.30pm at The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil. Tickets, £24.50/£22, from the theatre or Yeovil Rotary, 01460 240984. In aid of local charities.

Saturday September 6th East Mendip Gardening Club Annual Produce Show, Village Hall, Oakhill, 2pm.

Stalls, Car Boot etc.

Contact: Adel Avery, 01749 840240.

Sunday September 7th Redhill Village Harvest Fair & Produce Show, 12 noon -5pm at Redhill Club, BS40 5SG. Stalls, classic cars & motor cycles, live music and refreshments. Entry free. To book a stall (£10) contact Hazel: 01275 474973.

Stratton-on-the-Fosse Village Fun Day. 124pm in the village hall and on the football field.

Free entry. Lots of attractions. In aid of the village hall. To book your trade stand (£10 in advance/£12 on the day), call Sue on 0780 1721162.

Binegar Village Day. Binegar Memorial Hall and Playing Field, BA3 4TR. 2-5pm. Skittles, coconut shy, stalls and plenty of fun and activities.

Wednesday September 10th Yeo Valley Garden and Food Days – a chance to see the garden and enjoy its produce. £50pp.

Details: www.yeovalley.co.uk Saturday September 13th Cheddar Male Choir annual concert, Princess Theatre, Burnham on Sea, with award winning soprano Kate Eastment, 7.30pm. Tickets £8 from the box office, choir members or Brent Knoll village shop. Details: www.cheddarmvchoir.co.uk Saturday September 20th “Fourteen Pioneers of Astronomy” a talk by Bob Mizen followed by observations through Wells & Mendip Astronomers members’ telescopes. Priddy Village Hall & Upper Green, 7.30pm. Details: www.wellsastronomers.org.uk

ANSWERS TO THE MENDIP MINDBENDER

O n

24/7/14

ACROSS: 1/1D Water wheel, 4 Five years, 9 Eleanor, 11 Line of duty, 15/13 Hewletts Mill, 17 Bolted, 19 Malign, 20 Megaflop, 22/10 Good natured, 23 Target area, 27 Aileron, 28 Nineveh, 30 Dedicates, 31 Scrum.

DOWN: 2 Tie-in, 3 Run, 4 Firm date, 5 Vanity, 6 Yeti, 7 Air pistol, 8 Saddled up, 12 On edge, 14 Pop Art, 15 Home guard, 16 Well-oiled, 18 Leggings, 21 Gannet, 24/25 River Alham, 26 Croc, 29 Nos.

s

What's On section:Layout 1

MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014 • PAGE 105

What's On section:Layout 1

24/7/14

MENDIP TIMES MENDIP TIMES

15:14

Page 106

WHAT’S ON

Monster fun in prospect

THE Wessex Truck Show is in its second year and is held at The Yeovil Showground.

While the show is aimed at the truck enthusiast, there’s lots to

do for all the family.

Held on August 9th /10th the show boasts monster truck rides on the Lucas Oil Cruiser, which has never been seen in the West Country – a fantastic attraction where families can actually ride around the main arena on a monster truck!

Also over the weekend you can meet your favourite characters from the Disney and Pixar movies including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Captain America and some of the characters from Monster Inc. Other attractions include vehicle parades, model and remote control truck displays, show truck finalist parade, live music, face painting, funfair, craft fair and much much more.

Details: www.wessextruckshow.co.uk

MONSTER TRUCK RIDES

PAGE 106 • MENDIP TIMES • AUGUST 2014

What's On section:Layout 1

24/7/14

13:06

Page 107

WHAT’S ON

Dream Doors ad:Layout 1

24/7/14

12:48

Page 1