February25
Connecting communities in Beckington, Berkley, Lullington, Orchardleigh, Rodden & Woodlands
From the Editor
John Beaven
February is upon us, Christmas is behind us and the first faint signs of spring are now visible in catkins and snowdrops It’s still cold out though so if you’re tempted to curl up indoors, we’ve got lots to inform and engage you in February’s Network
Looking back, it’s been really encouraging to hear stories of how some of you were encouraged into acts of kindness by our ‘Give an hour’ campaign, and also how events like Rev Jo’s ‘Blue Christmas’ service gave comfort to those for whom Christmas was going to be an emotionally challenging time. If you missed Christmas events like the Nativity Festival or pantomime, you can catch up on them in the following pages. You can even look back to 1982, in our new newspaper clippings feature!
On the subject of looking back, we’re delighted that David Jordan has joined our team as history editor An artist, passionate historian and former teacher with a wide variety of other interests, David will be offering his own, fresh perspective on history and also coordinating features and contributions by others on local history.
Looking ahead, we are featuring a new initiative which we hope will help highlight opportunities for eating out locally, and you can also read James Cary’s reflections on our often weird relationship with food. Phil Cary talks us through how winter feed will be on farmers’ minds in February, and whatever your interests, we hope that you will find food for thought in this edition of Network: enjoy!
If something catches your eye and you want to contact someone, but only the name is in the article, you’ll find further details in our contacts section at the back.
Cover: Artwork by Ellie -Y6, Springmead School
“I always knew looking back on my tears would bring me laughter, but I never knew looking back on my laughter would make me cry”
Cat Stevens
Carol Hayslip - A Journey through Art
MikeWilsher
For 30 years, Carol Hayslip has called Beckington home, bringing her passion for art that transcends the canvas As an artist, she explores the interplay of colour, shape, texture, and form, experimenting with media such as printing, painting on fabric, oil paint with cold wax. Each piece is a journey, evolving intuitively through layering, repainting, and reimagining.
Inspired by the colours and forms of landscapes near Beckington and further afield in Scotland’s northeast, Carol, a keen gardener, uses these elements as a creative catalyst. Her work embraces freedom and innovation, guided by intuition and a sense of what the piece needs to truly come alive.
With a background in graphic design after studying exhibition and display in Aberdeen, Carol transitioned to full-time art in retirement. She has exhibited widely, including in the Beckington Creatives art trail, and plays an active role in Frome Art Society, organising biannual exhibitions and publicity.
The society fosters a love of art for novices and professionals, offering opportunities to learn, develop, and exhibit. Membership includes workshops, outdoor painting days, demonstrations, talks, and the new Friday Art Club, where members share ideas and create together
See Carol’s work on Instagram @CAHayslip or learn more at fromeartsociety.co.uk. Interested in joining? Email fromeartsociety@gmail.com.
Theatre
Beckington
Pantomime 2024
JohnBeaven
It may have been dismal and stormy outside, but inside the Memorial Hall there was a real sense of expectancy and excitement amongst that packed full house that had braved the weather for the last night of Jack & the Beanstalk, and they were not disappointed!
Seasoned performer Mike Brotherton played the role of Jack with innocent enthusiasm and the youthful Sophie Anderson conveyed beautifully her greater wisdom and more grounded ambitions. Atop the beanstalk, Benedict Doonan played the Giant with a glorious balance of menace and bewilderment
Skilfully scripted by James McGillivray, he always brings a fresh twist to these classic stories and this year was no exception, with amusing local references and the magic beans cleverly reimagined as a panel of talk show hosts, dispensing dubious wisdom.
A well-drilled, enthusiastic and talented cast moved the production on at a good pace, punctuated by delightful musical numbers and accompanied by an accomplished musical band In truth, all involved deserve a personal mention, if space allowed, as producers, script, props, costumes, music, cast and refreshments all combined to make this a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable evening out.
If you didn’t see it this year, I would urge you not to miss it next year – after all, where else can you be stirred to laughter by a morose panda? Proceeds support the Memorial Hall, and if you ever fancied a moment in the spotlight or a role behind the scenes, Beckington Players would love you to join them.
Photographer: Kevin Mitchell
If interested in taking part next year, please call Abi McGillvray
Parishes
Beckington Neighbourhood Planning – build, build, build?
Adam Boyden (Somerset Councillor for Frome North) and Dawn Denton(SomersetCouncillorforFromeNorth)
The Government’s revised National Planning Policy Framework recently increased Somerset’s housing requirement by 41% to 3,769 homes a year. Somerset Council can now only demonstrate 2.55 years housing supply (and the former Mendip area only 2.2 years), so until there is a 5-year housing supply in the planning pipeline, the ’tilted balance’ in the NPPF applies, and there is now a ‘presumption in favour’ of new housing developments, unless ‘significant and demonstrable harm’ and ‘strong material reasons for refusal’ are demonstrated.
The housing requirement applies across ‘former Mendip’ and Somerset as a whole, not individual parishes However, as Beckington is preparing a Neighbourhood Plan, Somerset Council will soon provide a local housing requirement (or indication) for Beckington, to define how many homes the Neighbourhood Plan must plan for.
With two major applications submitted recently and more to follow, there is a risk that excessive development could harm our historic village.
Somerset Council has also just launched its own ‘call for sites’ for its future Local Plan (to be adopted in 2028) What is clear is that the only way to have serious influence over the location and type of development Beckington needs to accept, is for Beckington’s Neighbourhood Plan to be completed and made legal.
This way, the development sites chosen and democratically endorsed by the community would get built – and other ‘speculative’ applications would be much less likely to be allowed.
This was the subject of the planning meeting last September If you care about the future of Beckington, please get involved in the Neighbourhood Plan – your village needs you! Please see https://www.beckingtonplan.co.uk/ and look out for Neighbourhood Plan events in February and March.
Parishes
Selwood Parish Council
JimDowling
Selwood Parish Council held their latest meeting on Wed 15th Jan at East Woodlands Village Hall.
Councillors approved a donation towards the installation of a defibrillator adjoining the churchyard wall of St. Katharine’s Church.
Councillor Bennett reported on the campaign to improve road safety on the A361 following a number of fatal accidents
There was a lengthy discussion on the Selwood Garden Community development which will be returning to the planning committee for a decision in early February.
Concerns were:-
Traffic: Future traffic volumes provided by the applicants were considered unrealistic. Road safety on the A361/362 was a serious concern not adequately considered by either highways or the applicants.
Industrial/commercial estate at Blatchbridge: Proposed access to this site would cause serious disruption and possible structural damage to residents and their property. Councillors were extremely dismayed that the applicants chose this access which showed a lack of consideration towards existing residents. It was proposed that the applicants should either provide an alternative access or relocate the industrial estate.
Sewage: Concern was expressed that Wessex Water may not upgrade Frome Town’s sewage infrastructure sufficiently to cope with the extra demand as this could not be conditioned within this planning application.
There are a limited number of free tree saplings [oak, silver birch, crab-apple, etc.] available to plant. Anyone interested please contact Jim Dowling for further info.
Councillors approved a precept of £15,000 for 2025/26 This is an increase on 2024/25 but will be partially offset by newbuilds coming on stream This increase is necessary to cover increased costs that Somerset Council intends to devolve to local parishes.
Wellbeing Resolutions of the Soul
RevJoRobinson
During January I asked some of my congregations if anyone had made New Year’s Resolutions and very few people responded positively. Perhaps it is because many of us feel the pressure from our culture to be productive and successful and so our lives are already too busy and stressful.
A friend gave me a book for Christmas - written by Miranda Hart (Miranda from TV). Miranda writes of her battle with burnout and ME over a period of around 10 years. In ‘the cave’ of illness she has to lay down her career and all her goals and ambitions, but she finds some ‘treasures’ in the darkness, including learning she is loved for who she is rather than what she can achieve, and discovering ‘there is always something loving and nourishing in every present moment ’
Jesus often invited His followers to change their perspective - to see the world through the lens of God’s love and grace. This kind of transformation is less about measurable outcomes and more about a shift in the heart.
So, what about if this year we resolve to savour the truth that our identity is rooted in being children of God - loved simply for who we are, and then choose to take delight in the simple blessings of daily life - noticing the beauty of a sunrise, cherishing a moment of quiet prayer, or finding joy in the laughter of a child. These choices may seem small, but they cultivate gratitude and a sense of God’s presence. Perhaps the most profound transformation begins not with doing more, but with seeing more clearly.
ProstateScreening
Frome Lions Club are hosting this free simple blood test on Saturday 25th March @ Frome Masonic Hall, Frome. To book a place, please visit the Somerset Prostate Support Association website.
A Good Walk - Mells River Path
Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all. Visit Mells River Path www.komoot.com
Please consider sharing your favourite walk with us for our next feature
EatingOut:ADeliciousNewVenture
MikeWilsher
We’re excited to launch a new section in Network Magazine dedicated to celebrating local dining experiences. Our aim? To shine a spotlight on the great restaurants in our community while encouraging everyone to enjoy and support them.
Here’s the idea: in exchange for a meal for two (including wine), participating restaurants will receive a quarter-page advertisement in Network Magazine and a thoughtful, honest review of their establishment This initiative not only promotes their business but also creates a buzz around the local food scene. We’re looking for enthusiastic foodies to step forward as reviewers. If you love good food, enjoy exploring new places, and can share your experience with flair, this could be for you! Reviewers will dine at one of our partnered restaurants, take photos, and write a review to be published in our magazine. We’ll prioritise local readers who are passionate about dining and ready to share their insights. We’re reaching out to local eateries, from cosy cafés to fine-dining restaurants, to join this exciting initiative. If you own or manage a restaurant, or if you’d like to volunteer as a reviewer, we’d love to hear from you
Together, let’s celebrate the best of local cuisine and make eating out a true community experience Interested? Contact us at Network Magazine today
OurWeirdRelationshipwithFood
JamesCary
Early new year often brings diet resolutions, spurred by the secular calendar’s barrage of adverts for diets, plans, and apps These diets frequently fail, leaving people in cycles of guilt and shame, compounded by unsustainable food trends and inaccessible pricing. Meanwhile, supermarkets profit from ultra-processed foods while discouraging sustainable, local produce.
Contrasting this, the Christian calendar offers a healthier rhythm of fasting and feasting, rooted in biblical principles. Historically, Plough Sunday, observed after Epiphany, marked the agrarian society’s dependence on God for sustenance. Farmers blessed their ploughs in church, recognizing God’s role in growth and provision This tradition declined with industrialisation, urbanisation, and mechanised agriculture, eroding the connection between food and faith
The absence of Christian rituals led to the rise of pagan superstitions and rituals around ploughing, reflecting humanity’s innate need for spiritual meaning in everyday life. Today, agriculture is undervalued in the UK, employing a small, aging workforce and contributing minimally to the economy. Yet, food remains critical to survival, and recent disruptions reveal the fragility of food security.
To reconnect with food in a meaningful way, consider observing traditions like Plough Sunday Celebrate with a meal of fresh, local produce, supporting sustainable practices and reflecting on God’s provision. Such practices remind us of food’s sacredness, fostering gratitude and stewardship in a world increasingly disconnected from its roots. Article condensed and picture from jamescary.substack
"Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s nourishment of the soul and body " Giada De Laurentiis
History
DavidJordan
Many generations have recited or sung the story of Jack and Jill, who are usually portrayed as young children.
Some years ago, my eldest daughter came home from Kilmersdon Primary School and announced that her class had been given a talk by an old gentleman named Gilson. He claimed to be a direct descendant of Jill (Gill), the partner in the nursery rhyme. According to him, what is now “Jack and Jill’s Hill”, near the school, used to be a stone quarry. Jack (a nickname for John) was working in the quarry when he fell and hit his head. His pregnant partner was called and she used the well at the top of the hill (which is still there) to bathe his wound He was helped home and his head was wrapped in paper and treated with a traditional antiseptic (vinegar) Sadly, Jack did not survive, and Gill died shortly after the birth of a son, hence the name Gilson in the area.
Another rhyme is “Humpty Dumpty”
Again, all the children’s illustrated books I have seen portray Humpty as an eggshaped figure who fell from a wall and broke into small pieces. The origin of this rhyme is believed to be from 1658, during the English Civil War A large cannon, nicknamed “Humpty Dumpty”, belonging to the Royalists in Colchester fell from the city walls and was damaged so badly it could no longer be used
Who knows? The passage of time blurs everything.
“The first poems I knew were nursery rhymes, and before I could read them for myself, I had come to love just the words of them, the words alone”. Dylan Thomas
History
Newspaper Clippings
MarkPattinson
I’ll now be sharing interesting newspaper clippings I uncover I have been curating these gems for a while and the latest one takes us back to 1982 a
Care
The
Journey
to a Care Home: Steps and Challenges
MikeWilsher
As people age, the road to receiving adequate care often involves a series of difficult decisions, balancing emotional, practical, and financial pressures.
Initially, care is often provided informally at home by a spouse or family member. While this may begin with small acts of support, the demands often increase as health declines. Unfortunately, caregiving partners—often elderly themselves— can become overwhelmed, leading to burnout and neglect of their own health.
When informal care becomes unsustainable, many families bring in professional carers These carers might visit daily or even live in, offering essential support with personal care, cooking, and companionship. However, professional home care is costly, often exceeding £1,000 per week for live-in services. In the UK, government assistance depends on a means test, with limited funding available for those with assets exceeding £23,250.
Eventually, when care needs surpass what can be managed at home, transitioning to a care home becomes inevitable. Residential care homes cost between £600 and £1,200 per week, with most people self-funding until assets are depleted While the NHS covers care for those with complex medical needs under strict criteria, such support is rare
This process is particularly tough for couples, as one partner often remains at home, emotionally and financially strained. With the aging population, long-term care reform is urgently needed to address the inequities in funding and support. Planning ahead and seeking advice from charities like Age UK can help families navigate this challenging journey.
Care
Get Involved: Local Groups, Clubs and Societies
MikeWilsher
Please contact Network if you’d like your group to be listed here Entries of less than 40 words are free for non-profits and non paying events. See our Calendar for events.
A few examples are included for illustration. When it is comprehensive we will all have a wide choice as to where we get involved, should we wish to. Newcomers to our local communities will know where to go.
Meditation Join us for silent meditation to connect with God Open to all, Thursdays at 7 pm in Lullington Contact Mike Wilsher
Beckington Art Group Inviting all those who knit, sew, crochet or create in any form. We offer a warm space with friendly encouragement sharing our creative activity. Every Wednesday 10am to 12noon at Lahs Place. Contact Jo Casey
NeedanHour,GiveanHour
Our recent campaign has encouraged many to reach out and support others in their community - thank you to those who have given feedback and been spurred into action. This perfectly aligns with Network Magazine’s goal of fostering connection, care, and community We’re thrilled to see this initiative gaining momentum and making a tangible difference Building on this success, we’re excited to launch a new “Wanted” column, designed to further encourage acts of kindness and connection. Stay tuned as this initiative grows, and a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who has already contributed to making it a success!
“I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.” Maya Angelou
Volunteer Opportunity: Retired DIY Enthusiast Help maintain a few local churches and keep our heritage buildings in top shape Though unpaid, this rewarding role offers a chance to make a real difference, preserve history, and stay active. Perfect for a hands-on retiree with a passion for craftsmanship and care Contact Network
Advertising Salesman We’re seeking a motivated individual to sell ad space and boost our reach. Experience securing grant funding is a plus. This is a reward-based opportunity, perfect for someone driven, resourceful, and ready to make an impact. Join us and grow with Network! Contact Network
Restaurant Reviewer If dining out feels like a luxury, we want your fresh perspective for Network Share the highs (or lows) of a meal for two in a way that delights our readers. Bring the menu to life with humour, honesty, and flair. Apply now to make food writing your dish! Contact Network
Project Manager St George’s, Beckington is looking for a volunteer or volunteers with project management skills to join a team planning and overseeing the reordering of this historic building, to make it a more accessible, usable and warm community and worship space Contact Rev Jo Robinson jo.robinson@beckingtonbenefice.org
JulieCarey-Downes
Health Connections offers free health and wellbeing support to people in Beckington and the wider Mendip area. The social prescribing team is available to support people in living well, in a number of different ways:
See a Health Connector for a 1 to 1 appointment – contact your GP or selfrefer from this page on our website: https://healthconnectionsmendip.org/support-for-you/health-connectionssupport/
Join one of our groups (for example, Live Well with Pain, Habits for Health, Long Term Conditions)
Train as a Community Connector
Use our Online Directory to find out what help and support is available locally and nationally
The directory includes information on local groups and services in the community that could help patients improve their health and wellbeing. You can search by area, category, or topic. There are also resources for each category containing useful links to other websites, booklets, and organisations. There are links to services such as transport, help at home and dementia support. Exercise, walking and social groups in the local area. As well as resources that can be downloaded or viewed on the website including topics such as healthier eating, diabetes and other health conditions
If you can’t find the support you are looking for, do give your local team a call and they will be happy to help.
Call Julie Carey-Downes Web link to our directory: https://healthconnectionsmendip.org/mendip-directory/ or scan the QR code:
Churches
Floodlighting the Tower of St George's, Beckington
Maria Beaven
17th December in loving memory of Charlie Howell who was born in the village in 1919 and spent most of his life in Beckington until his death on 17th December 1993 From his family
2nd January in loving memory of Jo Casey's Mother and Mother-in-law
15th January in loving memory of Joshua Vezey from his family
19th January in memory of Wilf and June Hibbard, loved and remembered always. From all the family
26th February In loving memory of Wilf Hibbard on what would have been his 100th birthday From all the family
If you would like to have the church tower lit for any occasion, during the darker months between the clock changes, please contact Maria to organise for them to come on. We do ask for a minimum donation of £10 please to help cover expenses.
Church Contacts
Churches
Beckington, St George’s - Nativity Festival
MariaBeaven
Our first nativity festival proved to be a big success. A huge thank you to everyone who supported this - over 200 people visited the church over the weekend to see the many scenes telling the story of Jesus’ birth in different ways. It was a fascinating and enthralling experience.
Huge thanks to the Living Nativity cast, the hens and Bert the Donkey - many people were deeply moved by the living tableau, standing transfixed in silent reflection and awe. A very special moment. Many thanks also to the Bell Ringers who filled the air with their beautiful music
The festival ended with a Crib Service, led by Rev Jo - it was so wonderful to see children dressed up in nativity costumes and entering into the Christmas story themselves.
It would not have been possible without so many people's help, so thank you to all those who kindly lent precious sets and to the team who worked hard to plan, set everything up, provide refreshments and steward the event.
We were really encouraged by lovely comments:
“It was an incredible evening - so beautiful- with over 50 displays of Nativity Scenes from all over the world- from very simple to extraordinarily intricateAncient and Modern”
“Great selection- so many”
“Loved the mice in the wall”
“It was a super event. Well done. Hopefully it will become a village tradition”
“Really lovely - Donkey was great”
“We were so impressed…. It was vari d f i ti li l “
“Really lovely; the back stories were s
Churches
Beckington Village Tidy Up
MariaBeaven
An opportunity, at the start of spring to give the village a spruce up If you would like to join in please meet outside the Woolpack at 10am on Saturday March 1 st, armed with gloves, spades, brushes as you are able. Refreshments will be se and 12.30. For further details please con
Lullington&Orchardleigh MikeWilsher
Between Lullington and Orchardleigh churches, in partnership with Orchardleigh Estates, we host nearly 30 weddings each year. This is a meaningful part of our church’s ministry, offering a chance to connect with young couples as they embark on their journey of marriage before God. It’s a joyful opportunity to meet, support, and engage with people during this significant time in their lives. We meet not only couples but also their families and children, and it’s always a pleasure.
Building on this, with the help of Rev Jo, we’re excited to introduce our new Marriage Matters Day On this day, up to 10 couples will gather for an opportunity to discuss marriage, explore their vows, approach difficult topics, and consider plans for their wedding day. We’ll introduce the ministers and offer guidance, along with a delightful meal.
This event is the next step in our mission to deepen our connection with couples entering marriage, ensuring they experience the love and support of our church community. It’s about making their journey the best it can be, surrounded by the care and love of God
Churches
StKatharine’s,Woodlands
PamChapman
What a wonderful number attended both the Carol and Christmas Day Services. A huge thank you to Jon Benger who stepped in at the 11th hour on Christmas Day as organist, Diana being unwell. He had played on Christmas Eve at Marston Bigot and earlier on Christmas Day at Rodden. Jon, you saved the day for us!
Final result for 2024 in the 100 Club Draw: £30 00 Mervyn Clothier, £20 00 Sheila House, £10 00 Emma Uffindell
To continue as a member or join us to have a flutter and help church funds, please contact Lorna Wheeler. The first draw in 2025 will take place in about 6 weeks' time.
Prayers with Rev Jo and Janet Caudwell at 4.00 pm on Tuesday, 28th January and Tuesday, 25th February. Take 30 minutes out of your busy lives for a moment of quiet reflection in our beautiful church.
Finally, such very sad news that Steve Bainbridge, stalwart member of the PCC and a choir member for many years, has passed away. We will miss him so much, working quietly in the background to undertake tasks large and small in the churchyard and the Church. As our only full-time tenor we already feel his absence.
He passed away peacefully on Monday, 13th January, having been visited earlier that afternoon by Rev Jo; our organist, Diana Carrington; and Churchwarden, Lorna Wheeler. Gone but not forgotten. RIP Steve.
Rodden
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Pat Antell who passed away this morning 21st January. Pat was a great supporter of Rodden Church, a long serving member of the PCC and will be very much missed.
LentStudies AndrewKellett
All are welcome to a series of Lent Studies: five Wednesday evenings from March 12th to April 9th at Lahs Place Community Room. Further details next month.
Farming Farming in February
PhilCary
February may seem like a quiet winter month, but for farmers, it brings its own challenges. The start of February marks Candlemas on February 2nd. While celebrated by Christians as a feast day, for farmers, it signals the halfway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox.
Livestock farmers are reminded of the old saying: “Half your straw and half your hay, Should be left on Candlemas Day.”
This is a practical warning that winter still has a long way to go, and livestock will need plenty of feeding before spring arrives.
Arable farmers, meanwhile, are focused on the soil. It needs to be dry enough for ploughing and ready for cultivation and drilling of spring crops, which must reach harvest by late summer.
Here in our parish, we looked to the “Barley Barons” of Wiltshire, whose lighter soils allowed them to plant large areas of spring barley. The best barley would be used for malting and beer production, while the rest, along with straw, would support Somerset’s stock farmers. Barley grain was a key ingredient in cattle feed, and pigs were traditionally fed on barley meal and whey from cheese production.
I still remember hauling loads of barley straw from Wiltshire essential for both bedding and feed.
For farmers, February is far from idle It’s a month of preparation, ensuring there’s enough feed and readying the land for the work of spring, while keeping a close eye on the unpredictable weather.
Schools
Springmead School - Art
CarolineWhite
This month we are showcasing some lovely artwork sent in to us by the Art Club. The theme given to the young artists was, "Love / Valentine's Day" and the results are beautiful, with one being selected for this month's front cover.
Zeph - Y3
William - Year 5
Reuben - Y6
Oliver - Y6.
Otto -Y3 Molly - Y4
Lizzie -Y4
Henry - Y6
Matilda Y6
Noah - Y6.
Inigo - Y6
Florence - Y5
Schools
We are delighted to share the winning piece of art for KS2 in the ISA National Art Competition. What a stunning picture! Additionally, in the same competition, a Highly Commended certificate was awarded for this 3D model, proudly held here by the artist.
What a talented group Thankyou for sharing
Harriet - Y6
Alexander - Y5. Annabel - Y5
Aubrey -Y6
Ava - Y6
Elodie - Y3
Ava -Y6
Communities
East Woodlands Village Hall
PamChapman
Pop up pub at 7 00 pm on Friday, 7th February and Friday, 7th March Soup and Pud lunch on Saturday, 22nd February from 12 noon to 2pm.
Not to be missed! I even persuaded my husband out of hibernation for an illustrated talk by Rev Jo on her time as a Missionary in China at 7pm on 8th February. Tickets £10.00 to include a glass of Prosecco and a Pud. Licensed paid bar plus tea and coffee available courtesy of Viv and Louise. Seating limited to 65 at tables, not in rows - Hooray! Jewellery made by the women Rev Jo cared for will be on sale Bring cash, as internet reception is sometimes dodgy in our neck of the woods If you volunteer to supply a Pud you will qualify for a big hug
For tickets or to offer puds please contact Lorna Wheeler or even me - Pam Chapman
If you do your fair day's work, you are certain to get your fair day's wage - in praise or pudding, whichever happens to suit your taste.
Alexander Smith
Societies
Beckington Memorial Hall
JeanetteHurst
A huge thank you to the Hillmans, the Woolpack, Mes Amis, Beckington Parish Council, and all who supported “Carols Around the Tree,” a very enjoyable village event which raised £520 for the refurbishment of the playground.
The good news is that sufficient funds have been raised for the flooring of the playground to be renewed as per the “dbdplay” quotation. The work was scheduled to take place on January 6th. Unfortunately, the sad news is that “dbdplay” has ceased trading, so we are once again looking for firms to quote for the job This may require additional fundraising We were not asked for a deposit, so financially, at least, we have not lost out
'
200 Club Winners
The following draw took place at the committee meeting on Monday, December 9th, 2024:
October: £50 - No 16, Ann Hodder; £25 - No 172, Barry Davies; £10No. 181, Jenny Ayrton
November: £50 - No. 174, Andy Smith; £25 - No. 116, Rory IngelbyMacKenzie; £10 - No 32, Roger Allin
December: £50 - No. 175, Alexandra Elliott; £25 - No. 96, Stephen Jenkins; £10 - No. 30, John Hayward
The following draw took place on Monday, January 13th, 2025:
£50 - No. 161, David Costello; £25 - No. 166, Paul Hughes; £10 - No. 89, David Costello
The Beckington Hall 200 Club is registered with the MDC Licensing Department, Reg No LN/009406098.
Societies
Standerwick, Berkley & Beckington WI
CarolSadler
First of all, a Happy New Year
Our WI did not have a meeting in January. Sadly, we decided to cancel our Bingo afternoon on Thursday 9 January due to the bad weather. We hope to reschedule this event for later in the year.
'
Our first monthly meeting of 2025 will be on Thursday 6 February when Rachel Boothroyd-Walker will talk to us about Antiques Then on Thursday 6 March Nick King will tell us about “Goats of the Gorge” (as featured on Dragon’s Den in 2024)
JoCasey
Friends of St George's will run Beckington Open Gardens this year on June 8th or 15th; please can you open your garden? However small or less than perfect, it will give so much pleasure to visitors More information from Jo Casey
Societies
Rode & District Gardening Club A New Year of Growing Possibilities
SharmanFlindall
On 13th January, the Rode and District Gardening Club held its first meeting of 2025. Many members renewed their memberships, and the club welcomed John Tucker as the speaker. His talk on bold planting encouraged members to embrace creativity over tidiness, even in small gardens. He emphasized designing spaces with year-round interest and a “wow factor,” asserting that even compact gardens can accommodate striking, large plants.
John highlighted hardy, easy-to-grow options suitable for most gardens. While some, like the Trachycarpus palm, require a significant financial outlay, others, such as the Ricinus astrosanguineus (castor oil plant), can be grown annually from seed, offering dramatic purple foliage and unique red seed pods. He also recommended revisiting traditional choices like Mahonia and Fatsia, noting that newer, more compact varieties provide diverse foliage. Grasses, ferns, and hostas were also suggested, though he cautioned about slug damage to hostas. Additionally, John advocated for incorporating topiary, mentioning that yew grows faster than expected and offers year-round structure.
The talk provided plenty of ideas for transforming dull corners or bare patches, inspiring attendees on a winter evening
The next meeting is on 10th February at the Rode Memorial Hall, featuring a gardener from Iford Manor discussing recent developments at Iford Garden. The event starts at 7:30 pm. Guests and new members are welcome, with guest fees at £5 and annual membership at £20. Winter meetings focus on gardening talks, while summer months feature visits to various gardens.
Societies
Mothers Union
JennyAyrton
The December meeting was our pre Christmas/Advent Holy Communion, which was held at Lahs Place and conducted by our Priest in Charge, Rev Jo. Tea and mince pies followed; thankyou Jo. This set us up nicely for the Christmas festivities.
'
We started 2025 with the A.G.M. where the main officers were re- elected, as was the committee. The treasurer shared the year’s financial overview, highlighting the funds raised and donated to all M.U. projects through various activities throughout the year
The next meeting is on February 5th at 2.15pm at Lahs Place, where we will be celebrating the annual Global Wave of Prayer Service. Do come and join us.
BeckingtonArtGroup
JoCasey
We have decided to run this group every Wednesday 10am to 12noon at Lahs Place, extending an invitation to those who knit, sew, crochet or create in any form We offer a warm space with friendly encouragement, sharing our creative activity
Come and try! Details from Jo Casey
“The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.”
Pablo
Picasso
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John Beaven | Editor
Mike Wilsher | Coordinator Philip Cary | Editor - Farming and Rural Affairs
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Caroline White | Editor - Schools
David Jordan | Editor - History
Rev Jo Robinson | Editor - Churches & Devotion
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Sponsorship
JohnBeaven
If you’d like to support Network and its work in the community, we’d love to hear from you Network is a free magazine made possible currently by the generous support of advertisers and donations, and your sponsorship would go a long way in strengthening our efforts.
Our vision is to be a transforming presence by connecting people, encouraging care, and helping to build a vibrant community. If you represent a company, we’re exploring a three-tier sponsorship model platinum, gold, and silver and would love your thoughts on this. We’d also be delighted to hear from philanthropic individuals. So far, we’ve been blessed with nearly £600 in giving, which has been both humbling and encouraging
We’re delighted to provide the magazine free of charge to our readers and if you’d like to contribute, it would mean so much. Your support would help us accelerate our plans, and enhance the quality of what we do.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to partner with us in making a lasting impact. For more details or to arrange sponsorship, please contact us at network@beckingtonbenefice.org
