Valley Life issue 45 - September 2020

READ BY MORE THAN 10,000 PEOPLE

Valley Life At the heart of the Cheddar Valley

SEPTEMBER 2020, ISSUE 45 FREE

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Let’s end this madness now News, views and features from Axbridge Cheddar, Wedmore and Winscombe

Inside this issue

welcome . . .

Jan puts her best foot forward to save the day

– Page 4

Three allotment plots up for grabs at parish council site – Page 7

The Cheddar Parish Council pavilion is unveiled

– Pages 10-11

Contact us 7 Tower Close, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3XQ Tel: 01934 741099 Mob: 07704 606151

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Welcome to the forty-fifth issue of Valley Life and we hope you are continuing to enjoy the offering of news and views from around the Cheddar Valley.

It can barely escaped anyone’s attention that the Gorge seems to have been like a honey-pot for car enthusiasts this summer.

While it is great to see these old cars tootling up and down the Gorge, there comes a time when enough is enough.

And here at Valley Life, we think we have reached that stage now.

Every weekend it seems that there is either an official car meet at the Gorge or an informal one which

attracts drivers from across the region.

While the police are adamant that they will deal with any anti-social driving once they become aware of it, the sad fact is that there aren’t enough police to patrol the Gorge over a weekend - and that’s why they are asking for our help in stamping out anti-social driving.

But now is the time that these meets must be curtailed. Hundreds of cars using the Gorge as their private parade ground isn’t practical when people have to use the road for work.

And as th front page of the magazine shows, not all of these drivers are abiding by the rules of the road.

Rob Perkins, Editor

NEWS

Cop tells residents: ‘we’re on your side’ Avon and Somerset’s Assistant Chief Constable has reassured residents in the Cheddar Valley that his force is willing and able to deal with the nuisance of anti-social driving in the Gorge.

to local residents. I would like to reassure the community we are very much alive to this issue and we will apply the law where it is appropriate to do so.”

Mr Cullen added that there had been some changes to give people hope that a solution can be found to the problem.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cullen, pictured, made a plea to those driving irresponsibly to curb their antics as officers will not hesitate from using the law to combat the problem.

The Gorge has been closed by the police on three separate occasions this summer as hundreds of drivers descended on the Gorge.

But the problem has been steadily growing worse over the course of the summer and residents are worried that it is going to take some tragic before anything is done.

But Mr Cullen has told the community that a long-term solution to the problem is already underway.

He said: “We know that the vast majority of those using the Gorge respect its beauty, but we are also very aware of the issue of anti-social driving and the distress it is causing to local communities.

“We have had a very visible

policing presence over the summer and closed the Gorge on three separate occasions and it wasn’t a decision we took lightly.

“We are working very closely with the local authority and the community and we are exploring the options open to us – looking at road closures, the car parks, the design of the road, but also looking at potential injunctions.

“This has to be a partnership effort and we recognise we need a sustainable solution to this ongoing problem.

“We take robust action against people who drive irresponsibly or cause distress

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

He added: “We know there is still a long way to go but I’m making a plea to those who use the road irresponsibly.

There is a strong likelihood that someone will be seriously injured and we need to do all we can to avoid that.

“My plea to those attracted to the site through these car meets is think about the implications of your actions and the risks you are taking and the distress you are causing to others.”

Police are asking anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour in the Gorge to contact them through the force website https://www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/ report/anti-social-driving/ Residents can also contact local beat officers through Twitter @ASPSedgemoor or Facebook @Avonandsomersetpolice

www.valley-life.com

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NEWS

Jan’s marathon effort salvages annual event

W

hen the pandemic put paid to the annual Cheddar Vale Lion Club duck race down the River Yeo in Cheddar Gorge, members put their heads together to help save the day.

The event which was planned for the May Bank Holiday was a major fund-raiser for the Lions’ charity The Children’s Hospice South West, and has raised thousands of pounds over the years.

So to lose such an important part of the Lions’ fund-raising efforts was going to be devastating - until Jan Clark stepped in.

She pledged to complete a walking marathon for the cause by doing laps of her 4

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something we could participate in while socially distancing.

“All the club’s summer fundraising has had to be cancelled due to Covid-19 so this has been a fantastic project to be involved in. field in the village over a three-week period.

Through her efforts and those of other members of the Cheddar Vale Lions Club, they have raised more than £800 through a crowdfund page, sponsorship forms and cash gifts.

The club is still welcoming donations to honour Jan’s remarkable achievement.

Sylvia Cook said: “It was

“It has been an amazing achievement for Lion Jan, who, despite age and health complications, has been determined to finish.”

Other Lion members who accompanied Jan on different days, also managed 220 laps of the field, totalling 55 miles to add to Jan’s miles.

The Club celebrated with a cream tea in the field and, of course, a bottle of bubbly for Jan.

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

Riverside Inn & Restaurant Cheddar

It’s still here!

Up to £10 off per person* Mon-Wed

We’re keeping it going throughout September!

*50%

discount up to a maximum of £10 per person on all food excluding takeaway Mon to Wed during September 2020

The Riverside Inn … in the heart of Somerset

Cliff Street | Cheddar | Somerset | BS27 3PX | 01934 742 452 info@riversidecheddar.co.uk | riversidecheddar.co.uk

NEWS

Eat out at Riverside

A

Cheddar pub has decided to continue the Eat Out to Help Out scheme for September at its own expense.

So while the Government’s scheme came to an end at the end of August, The Riverside Inn has decided to continue the scheme which has been such a success.

Huw Davis, owner of the Riverside said: “The Conservatory restaurant and riverside garden are as attractive environments to eat and drink as ever.

“And during September the

Riverside has decided to continue the Eat Out to Help Out offer at its own expense.

“From Monday to Wednesday throughout September customers will be able to enjoy a 50% discount, up to a maximum of £10 per person, on all food consumed on the premises. And, of course, social distancing rules are being adhered to and PPE is being deployed to ensure the safety of customers and staff alike.”

And if people are unable to dine in, The Riverside continues to offer a takeaway service.

Huw added: “The Riverside team are not only able to serve you within your local friendly pub and restaurant, you can also pre-order freshly cooked, locally sourced food to takeaway.

“And they’re making payment both easy and safe so you can pay by phone, by app or contactless upon collection.”

So whether you’re looking to dine out or looking for a takeaway meal, The Riverside Inn will be able to fulfill all your needs. Huw, Jo, Daniel and all at the Riverside look forward to seeing you soon!

Butchers • Fishmongers • Delicatessen Opening hours Monday - Saturday 7am-6pm Sunday 10am-4pm Throughout the lockdown Cobbs of Cheddar has been able to remain open to serve the Cheddar Valley community. Estelle Cobb said: “The pandemic has been a worry for everyone, but we have tried our best to continue to support the local community. And in return, they have supported us throughout this dreadful time. In fact, the scare has led us to opening a new delivery service to help those who haven’t been able to get out.”

Hog roast bookings now being taken for 2021 6

The Cross, Union Street, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3NA VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / Tel: 01934 742521 Email: cobbsofcheddar@outlook.com

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ISSUE 45

Cheddar Parish Council News

NEWS

working to provide a better community

Pavilion extension started

I

t has been a long wait for work to start but safety barriers are in place, builders on site and materials are being delivered.

The extension idea became a reality when the PC was awarded a part grant from the Hinkley Point Community Impact Mitigation Fund as some recompense for the increased quarry lorry traffic to and from the construction site.

The project has meant hours of work for PC members in consultation with the sports clubs who use Sharpham Road and the whole community to get the best facility possible for our growing village.

Construction is due to be completed next March, but it is with relief and excitement, after the extra delay of lockdown,

that work is underway.

The nearby children’s play area has been dismantled and safely stored, but will eventually be re-sited near the skate park.

The fitness equipment has already been re-installed at Hannah More Park for all to use.

Problems in the gorge continue

to plague the village and the PC is working really hard with the police, district and county council, Longleat and National Trust to stop the unwelcome car meets and dangerous driving. Cheddar is just one of the many places around the country suffering from the problem and there are no easy solutions.

Time well spent at the allotments Cheddar allotments are blooming and bearing increased amounts of fruit and vegetables.

During the lockdown there was increased enthusiasm to grow your own, enjoy the fresh air, get exercise and help mental well-being which has resulted in our clerk letting out all but three of the vacant plots.

The cemetery extension which was finished in March suffered badly from winter rains then scorching temperatures in the spring.

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

Whilst the PC are finishing a few outstanding jobs we are looking for some volunteers who would like to help us with re-seeding, tending and moving small hedging plants in late autumn or early winter.

Contact the clerk on 01934 743217, Clerk@cheddarparishcouncil.org if you can help.

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NEWS

Solar panels for shop

D

raycott Community Shop has successfully installed rooftop solar panels, thanks to a £2,000 grant from The Naturesave Trust.

This has enabled them to install the panels quickly and without the need to fundraise, which would have been near impossible during lockdown.

Tim Cook, Chairman of Draycott Community Shop Committee said “When we first went about taking over the shop, as well as benefit-

ting the community it was incredibly important for it to be as eco-friendly as possible.

The panels will generate about 25% of our annual electricity needs, saving

approximately one tonne of Co2 each year. It will save us around £500 per year energy bill, meaning we can use this money to benefit the community in other ways.”

Sewell House

• Rented self-contained, en suite accommodation for the active elderly • A home cooked three course midday meal • Trial flat for up to four weeks, when available • 24-hour emergency cover • Freedom from household management • Lift available to first floor and sitting room • Independent living within private community • Close to centre of a thriving picturesque village • Spacious landscaped gardens • Friendly home from home • Activities and outings • Guest accommodation • Views of the Mendip Hills • Welcome to people of any faith or none • Charges are fully inclusive

For further details contact the Resident Warden on 01934 843746 warden.sewell@btconnect.com Sewell House, Belmont Road, Winscombe, BS25 1LQ www.sewellhouse.org.uk

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

Sewell House is managed by Sidcot Friends Housing Society Ltd - a not-for-profit organisation

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NEWS

Pavilion will be an asse

I

t may have had a difficult birth, but by next March, Cheddar should have a community pavilion to be proud of.

Construction began on the site at Sharpham Road Playing Fields in Cheddar, Somerset in August.

It will be the most tangible example of what the whole community has been calling for since housing developers and quarry companies increased their presence in the area.

Now these companies through various funds they have to pay into to allow development, will be giving something back to the community.

For too long it seems that these companies have been taking without giving back.

The pavilion at Sharpham Road will be a great addition to the area.

It will also mean that the clubs which use the sports ground will now have somewhere to entertain visiting teams.

The bar area will also mean that these clubs will be able to use it to raise much needed funds to develop their clubs - something which has been lacking over many years.

The work will involve making

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improvements to the existing sports pavilion and erecting a new wing to more than double the overall size of the building.

The new pavilion will contain a large recreation hall, a smaller meeting area, and a bar and kitchen, offering opportunities for all age groups from pre-school to U3A.Â

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

NEWS

set to the community project for the village.

“The new pavilion will be managed by the parish council for the benefit of the whole community; a facility that everyone can use.

“It has been delayed by lockdown, but finally, we are underway.”

The pavilion, which has been designed by local architect Kelly Clark, is being part-funded through the Hinkley Point C Community Impact Mitigation Fund, in partnership with West Somerset Council, Sedgemoor District Council and Somerset County Council.

The balance of the cost is to be paid from a Community Infrastructure Levy received for new housing developments in the parish.

The parish council has appointed DR Jones (Yeovil) Ltd as principal contractor.

The first task is to dismantle the fitness equipment and play area in front of the building; the exercise bars will be re-sited at Hannah More Park.

In developing the plans, Cheddar Parish Council has worked closely with the existing users of the pavilion - the Cheddar cricket, football and rugby clubs - and

consulted widely throughout the community.

Peter Colton, chairman of the Cheddar Parish Council, said: “This is a very exciting

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

The children’s playground will be re-installed near the skate park.

Work on the new building itself began in early August with completion scheduled for March 2021. www.valley-life.com

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NEWS

Hedgehog charity on look out for help

A

Cheddar-based hedgehog charity has been able to release all the animals which they have been called on to help.

Prickles prides itself on their high success rate in treating and rehabilitating hedgehogs that come into their care with life threatening illnesses and injuries.

Their policy is to properly assess each new animal, to seek veterinary care when required, and to consult with other specialists throughout the country who are advanced in the treatment of this small animal.

The charity takes in hedgehogs from across Somerset, North Somerset, Bath and North east Somerset, Bristol and surrounding Mendip Area.

Ellen Fry from Prickles said: “We have had a busy Summer season with many hoglets needing our attention.

“We are happy to report that most of these grown babies were able to be returned to their finders during the end of July and beginning of August.

“But we would be most grateful for donations of cat

food in jelly to feed the many hungry mouths still in our care.”

“And we are always in need of more volunteers to help us to carry on the work which never stops in looking after these beautiful animals.”

Prickles Hedgehog Rescue was founded in 2007 and is run on a voluntary basis. We have an exceptional group of adult volunteers who assist with feeding, pick-ups, releases, general welfare and cleaning of the hedgehog accommodation.

They welcome young vol-

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

unteers who help with the cleaning out and feeding as they feel that by working with young people this will create an interest and legacy for the future. Prickles Hedgehog Rescue are now operating with limited volunteer help to achieve social distancing.

During the lockdown increased garden clearance has resulted in the arrival of disturbed nests of hoglets and pregnant females searching for suitable nest sites.

For more information contact: Prickles Hedgehog Rescue 01934 742120.

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Garden time Garden designer Jane Hicks helps you create a better garden

Prepare to succeed

S

eptember is an ideal time for planting and if you are planning on doing some this month, it might be a good idea to do some preparation. Please see my shopping checklist below: 1. Microclimate. Make sure you do a bit of research, don’t get carried away and plant something just because it’s pretty, it really won’t thrive if it’s not suitable for that position. Check what soil you have, whether the site is in the sun or shade, the orientation, is the area particularly sheltered, windy, exposed, in a frost pocket?

2. Look around you. Go for a walk or drive, check what plants your neighbours are growing successfully - you could also get some ideas of planting layouts.

3. Practicality. Make sure that the plants you choose either don’t get too big for the position chosen or if it will, make sure it is happy to be trimmed.

4. Flowers. Choose a variety of plants that have different shaped flowers. If you have

out the seasons plus shrubs with winter colour such as evergreen foliage or colourful stems. Don’t forget spring bulbs of course!

a small garden don’t include too many colours, 2 or 3 is enough.

5. Foliage. Leaves which have different sizes and shapes will give interest when there are no flowers, if you have a small garden remember 2 or 3 shades of green, similar to point 4.

6. Size. Different plant heights can give the illusion of a bigger or even smaller space, can be used to separate the garden, these are just 2 of the many ways to use sizes of plants successfully.

7. Seasonal interest. Choose plants that flower through-

Plant of the month: Cosmos is a brilliant plant for filling any gaps in the border in late summer, from July until the first frosts and grows between 60 - 120cm tall. It is an annual which means it grows from seed and dies each year. It’s flowers can be single ruffled or even in the form of a fused cup shape. Plant where it will get sun. Cosmos makes a jolly if slightly untidy flower arrangement as shown here with some eucalyptus foliage.

Extremely easy to grow from seed.

To do this month: Buy bulbs to plant now for spring flowers. Continue to feed and water pots. Prune climbing roses. Pick divide perennials to fill gaps in the borders but remember large groups of the same plant look better and give more impact than 1 perennial here or there. Leave some dead flowers for the wildlife and autumnal/winter interest. Keep harvesting fruit and vegetables.

Contact Jane Hicks on 07817 041763 or email: designer@janesgardens.co.uk

Back Issues Doctor of Chiropractic Matt Sutton helps to keep you on the move

How posture can be a window on health

A

parent admonishes, “Chin up, stop slouching!” A teacher demands, “Sit up straight in your chair!”

low mood, and increase energy throughout the day.

Try the 50/10 rule if you sit a lot at work. For every 50 minutes you sit, get up and move around for 10 minutes. Find an excuse to walk around the office, make a cup of tea or get some fresh air.

A drill sergeant commands, “Hold your shoulders back and chest out!” A dance instructor reminds, “Find your centre!”

As adults we no longer have someone nearby to dole out daily reminders, how does following – or not following – the instructions we grew up hearing early in life affect us in the coming years, and how does posture affect our overall health?

In the journal Biofeedback, a study found that simply choosing to alter body posture to a more upright position improved mood and energy levels.

The subjects walked down a hallway in a slouched position and then skipped down the hallway.

The whole group reported slouched walking decreased energy levels while skipping increased energy. The partic-

Did you know that your posture can predict your future risk of disability? According to a study just published in Journals of Gerontology Series A the shape of a person’s spinal column may be an indicator of their need for home assistance later in life.

ipants were also asked to rate their general depression levels.

Those generally more depressed noted far lower energy levels after slouched walking than those who were generally not experiencing depression.

Rather than slouching, consciously bringing yourself upright can relieve discomfort,

If you knew you could do something now to change things down the road, would you do it?

It’s time to get your spine and nervous system checked for imbalances, whether you feel them or not.

The evidence is clear: If you want to live an active, healthy, long life, you must have a healthy spine and nervous system.

Contact Matt on 01934 235535 or email reception@suttonchiro.co.uk

Mendip walks Mendip walks Jennifer Hunt and her dogs Daisy and Dora take to the hills Jennifer Hunt and her dogs Daisy and Dora take to the hills

A walker’s heaven

S

tart from King’s Wood car park, just off Winscombe Hill. Go through the gate and head straight up through the wood, which is part of the West Mendip Way. Towards the top it becomes more open and there are some lovely old trees growing here, probably planted at the same time as Winscombe Hall was built in the mid-19th century and which can be seen over on the right. This beautiful Victorian Mansion House has now been converted into a Care Home.

Carry on upwards until you come out onto the hill at the top. Walk straight ahead along the wide, grassy path and then take the first or second turning on the left, which takes you out over Cross Plain. Sometimes there are sheep, cattle and ponies grazing so beware if you have a dog.

As you walk along this high ridge you will be rewarded with amazing views in all directions – on a clear day you can see as far as Minehead.

Sometimes there is not a

with the fields. If you do this walk in the spring the woodland floor is covered in bluebells and white garlic flowers (ransoms).

Then after the dogs have been chasing squirrels, they return smelling like garlic sausages!

When you arrive at the gate go through and continue along this level path until you reach the next turning on the right, opposite an ancient, gnarled tree. This follows the edge of the field down through the wood.

Until recently on the side of this path there was a very impressive bracket fungus growing on a huge ash tree, but sadly it blew down in high winds.

breath of wind up here and at other times you feel as if you are going to get blown right off the top!

At the end of the ridge continue down over the grassy slope, which is kept neatly nibbled by the grazing animals and rabbits. The track then narrows and runs between some bushes.

When you get to a tree on the right take the small turning over on the left and follow this narrow track until it comes out onto a wider path.

Turn left and walk along the edge of the wood, parallel

VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 45

As you walk along you will notice quite a few bird boxes, with different sized entrances, attached to the trees. When you eventually join the main path again turn right, go through the gate, and then follow the path back to the car park.

Walk: Cross Plain Start and End: King’s Wood Car Park, Winscombe Hill Postcode: BS25 1DH

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Tiggi’s Travels Seeing life differently with visually-impaired Tiggi Trethowan

Life after lockdown

S

o many people you see ask “how was lockdown for you?” I find myself scrabbling for a response that includes my imaginary library of skills.

days (the gestation period of a chicken) and just in case prepared a nursery coop with cosy bedding and specialised feeder with chick grub and of course fresh water. In honesty for all I knew she could have been sitting on a pile of sticks!

Such as learning to knit, clearing out my wardrobes, writing the next best seller, all totally untrue. However, something did happen that I share great pride in.

Just before lock down was enforced I went with a friend to an intensive chicken farm that was chucking out its old hens in order to provide space for new younger chickens that would produce more eggs.

It was quite an alarming experience as farmers emerge from a huge barn with, literally, handfuls of clucking chickens. I politely asked for two and we returned home.

My two new hens looked pretty beaten up and scraggy.

Their feathers looked crushed and matt in colour with very pale head combs.

As any poultry lover knows this is a sign of stress and poor health. Feeding them up with lots of nutrients

and most of all love and care. Very slowly they both returned to full health and settled happily to their new freedom of our large garden.

As lockdown kicked in and to my distress one of my new girls went missing. Obviously my first thoughts were the fox, however, she started reappearing during the heat of the day much to my relief but gone again by nightfall.

I followed her one day to a beautiful passion flower vine growing at the front of the house.

Having sight loss, I couldn’t see exactly where she was nesting, but just in case I Googled “signs of a broody hen.” I counted exactly 21

On “D” day a friend was delivering my shopping. I asked her to check behind the passion flower. After substantial scrabbling she pulled out one gorgeous egg and pressed it gently to my ear. I could hear distinct cheeping and scratching coming from the egg! I nearly fainted with excitement as we very quickly, to minimize distress, moved mum chicken, 13 eggs and one now hatched chick into the nursery. By morning I awoke to find eleven healthy chicks already eating and drinking. I really feel this has been one of my finest life achievements and definitely one of the most exciting. But the true heroine of this story is the rescue chicken who recovered and went on to have a family in total blissful freedom. So that’s what I was doing during lock down.

Listen to the latest Draycott Diaries Podcast available at www.draycottdiaries.com

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01278 785900

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