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FOSSE TRINITY NEWS
Serving the communities of Ditcheat, East Pennard and Pylle
november 2014
2
HELEN BUSHROD
LOOSE COVERS,
CURTAINS, CUSHIONS, etc.
Made to your requirements
FREE ESTIMATES
Tel: 01749 860546
THE ALHAMPTON INN
ALHAMPTON,SHEPTON MALLET
TEL: 01749 860747
Open All Day
Excellent home cooked food Mon-Sat 12.15 - 8.30
Sunday Roast 12.15-2.30pm
booking advisable
Buffets quoted for on request
Fish and chips takeaway available
Travellers Rest Stone, East Pennard (on the A37)
01749 860069
OPEN ALL DAY
from 12.00 noon
Traditional pub food
Tea / Coffee Sunday Roast
Quiz Nights/Skittles/Pool/Darts
B & B en-suite rooms
www.travellersrest.org.uk
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The Fosse Trinity News is a community magazine owned by the Fosse Trinity Advisory Committee. It is financed by advertising and donations. It is delivered FREE to every
household in Ditcheat, Alhampton, East Pennard and Pylle. We welcome any contribution from anyone in the community of any age!
Send copy by 15th of each month to [email protected]
or to The Editors, 1 Folly Drive, Ditcheat, BA4 6QH
For enquiries about advertising in the magazine, please contact
Marcus 01749 860067 or email [email protected]
Closing date 10th of each month
Letter from the editors
Well now it is November, we really should begin to embrace the festive season and start to organise where and with
whom we are sharing gifts and lunch, however I feel that we are being broken in gently this year, a ‘half hearted’ Christmas selection in the shops, have the retailers actually
listened to our cries, ‘Christmas! It is only September!’? Only now I feel behind, disorganised and well actually I feel cheated!
For those of you that are happy to play the part of the Christmas’ ostrich, there are plenty of distractions on the way.
A quiz in the Jubilee Hall on the 8th (p19) A winter bird watching walk with the Wild Life Group on the 12th (p54), Needle felting with Saturday stitch on 22nd (p20) plus
Community tree planting in Haddon Wood on the 23rd (p35) to name a few.
Congratulations to Kerry & Jeremy of Hembridge Organics, for
becoming finalists in this year’s Soil Associations Organic Food Awards, you can find out more about their Tayberry Jam on page (p36)
Lastly, from the words of East Pennard British Legion (p42), ‘Remembrance is just around the corner when you read
this. The Sunday parade is on the 9th November at East Pennard, gathering between 10.15 and 10.30 to start at around 10.45am. The main parade will be on Tuesday 11th
November at Ditcheat, again starting at about 10.45am. We will be joined by the children from Ditcheat School who are going to help us by reading the Names and then there is Rendezvous!! Coffee after the Parade, sounds great!’
Jo Curtis Gerry Lees
www.fossetrinitynews.co.uk
This Month
Advertiser Index 58 Alhampton News 7 Bake-off results 13
Book Group 34 Charlotte Clements 41 Church Services 30
Diary Dates 4 Ditch’t Big Screen 27 Ditcheat Ch. Rota 53 Ditcheat Player’s 6
Ditcheat School 8 E.P. News 9 Folk Dancing 28 Garden Section 23
Haddon Wood 35 Happy Landings 37 Hembridge Org. 36
Jacapella 25 Jubilee Hall 19 Mothers Union 51 Natural World 17
Parish news 47 Pastoral Message 31 Pylle News 11
Quiz 19 Rendezvous 28 Royal Brit. Legion 42 Saturday Stitch 20
Theatre~dinner 50 Used Stamps 24 Village Lunch 26
Who's Who 56 Wildlife Group 54
Dates for your Diary
new entries are shaded
Every Week
Mon
Pilates (9.00)
Tai Chi for Health(10.30) Ditcheat Badminton Club (8.00) Singing for the Terrified (7.00)
Diana 860224
Ellie 345222 James 860355
Gill 830110
Tue Art Group – Fortnightly (10.00) Liz & Stewart 860755
Wed Ditcheat Badminton Club (2.00)
Ditcheat Short Mat Bowls (7.00)
James 860355
Martin 860780
Thu Keep Fit (9.15) Diana 860224
November 2014
Tue 4th 8.00 Royal British Legion – Chairman’s Studio Gaye 860081
Wed 5th 10.45 Jacapella classes – Jubilee Hall Tricia 330161
Wed 5th 12.00 Pylle LWP – Coffee Den Joanna 838757
Thu 6th 8.15 The Alhamptonians Louisa 860252
Sat 8th 10.00 Life Study Art Group – Pylle Village Hall Gill 830110
Sat 8th 10.30 Saturday Stitch – Cedar Ho, Ditcheat Sally 860304
Sat 8th 7.00 Quiz in the Hall – Jubilee Hall Sally 860326
Sun 9th 10.45 Remembrance Parade – East Pennard Jon 850241
Tue 11th 10.00 Rendezvous – Jubilee Hall Diana 860224
Tue 11th 10.45 Remembrance Parade – Ditcheat Jon 850241
Tue 11th 8.30 Travellers Rest – Quiz Night Ian 860069
Wed 12th 10.45 Jacapella classes – Jubilee Hall Tricia 330161
Wed 12th 2.00 Wild Life Winter Bird Watch Bridget 860240
Fri 14th 7.30 Folk Dancing – Jubilee Hall Deirdre 860594
Thu 20th 7.30 Ditcheat Big Screen presents – Jubilee Hall
“The Fault In Our Stars” Peter 860081
Sat 22nd 10.00 Haddon Wood Community Planting Hilary 860615
Sat 22th 10.30 Saturday Stitch – Castle Cary Sally 860304
Tue 25th 12.30 Ditcheat Village Lunch – Jubilee Hall Jessica 860205
Tue 25th 8.30 Travellers Rest – Quiz Night Ian 860069
Sun 30th 4.00 Candle Light & Carols at St Mary
Magdalene, Ditcheat
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Dates for your Diary cont'd.
December 2014
Thu 4th 7.30 Ditcheat Players, “Avast Behind” Gaye 860081
Thu 4th 8.15 The Alhamptonians Louisa 860252
Fri 5th 7.30 Ditcheat Players, “Avast Behind” Gaye 860081
Sat 6th 10.00 Life Study Art Group – Pylle Village Hall Gill 830110
Sat 6th 7.30 Ditcheat Players, “Avast Behind” Gaye 860081
Sun 7th 12.00 Pylle Christmas Lunch Joanna 838757
Tue 9th 10.00 Rendezvous – Jubilee Hall Diana 860224
Tue 9th 8.30 Travellers Rest – Quiz Night Ian 860069
Fri 12th 7.30 Folk Dancing – Jubilee Hall Deirdre 860594
Sat 13th 7.00 Christmas Ball – Jubilee Hall Jo 860898
Tue 16th 12.30 Ditcheat Christmas Village Lunch –
Jubilee Hall Jessica 860205
Tue 16th 8.30 Travellers Rest – Quiz Night Ian 860069
Fri 19th 7.00 Pylle Carol Service Joanna 838757
January 2015
Thu 1st 8.15 The Alhamptonians Louisa 860252
Tue 13th 10.00 Rendezvous – Jubilee Hall Diana 860224
Fri 12th 7.30 Folk Dancing – Jubilee Hall Deirdre 860594
Tue 20th 7.30 Ditcheat Jubilee Hall AGM Peter 860081
Sun 25th Burns Night
Tue 27th 12.30 Ditcheat Village Lunch – Jubilee Hall Jessica 860205
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Alhampton news I was listening to the radio the other day and there were two ladies who were rather smugly saying that they had all their Christmas presents bought and
wrapped, their cards written, stamped and waiting to be posted and a lot of their special food bought. For a moment I was slightly alarmed thinking that I should be much further ahead than I am but then felt pleased that I had not
got caught up in the preparations too early. It takes all the fun out of things. However in this particular case we do need to think ahead and confirm that the annual Christmas Eve singing will be on in the Alhampton Inn from about
seven o’clock – we will confirm the time in the December magazine. Come and join us for a few minutes or much longer, exercise your lungs and take
the chance to wish others season’s greetings. It will go on for as long as there is someone who wants to sing but not longer than an hour – our voices won’t last longer than that!
While on the subject of Christmas and the pub, they are taking bookings for their Christmas menu – available from 6th until 19th December. All their meals
are good and these Christmas specials are no exception so get your booking in early.
Haddon Wood continues to develop apace and it is good to see the pond filling. A bit of a shame that some people do not respect the place and need a notice to remind them how to look after it – I wonder is the dog-pooh fairy
related to the washing up fairy who seemed to be expected to deal with used mugs in school staffrooms – and other places of work, I have no doubt.
The Alhamptonians meet as usual on the first Thursday in December - this month that is 4th December. Someone is always there from about 8.15 but
come when you like. Last month some people who were holidaying here joined us and said what a friendly place we live in – nice to hear. One of the topics under discussion was the history of the village and some of the
theories that have been offered, especially about Champs field. It was suggested that we should have an informal get together to share what people know with any photographs, old maps etc. It is amazing how much has
changed even in the last twenty years. Would anyone be interested in such an event?
If you have any news of events, special anniversaries etc or just something you would like to share with the rest of the village please let me know on 860252 or [email protected].
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News from Ditcheat Primary School
As I write, we are approaching the end of a busy and fun-packed half term and the children are all looking forward to a well-
deserved break.
We have had a very successful Harvest celebration, which saw all of the
children taking part and the older children taking a leading role. Our auction of produce after the Harvest service raised valuable funds for Bath-based charity ‘Send a Cow’ which supports agricultural development in Africa.
The older children have taken part in their first football matches of the year, in which they played extremely well and behaved impeccably, doing Mr Reid
and the whole school proud. Our annual match against Evercreech School saw us retain the Colin Law memorial trophy.
We have just finished Book Week, which saw several exciting events take place, most centred on the traditional tale Cinderella. The children enjoyed
reading and discussing several different versions of the story from cultures all around the world, finding the similarities and differences. We welcomed local author, Nicky Allis and her dog Dilys into school as Nicky read the children
the latest adventure for Dilys, ‘Dilys Goes to School.’ It was hard to say who was more excited by Dilys’ presence in school – the children or Dilys herself! We invited some storytellers into school to lead workshops for all the classes
and we all had great fun dressed as favourite characters from traditional stories. The week was rounded off with a mystery as Cinderella’s slipper went missing from the school foyer and the children all turned detective to help us
track it down.
Amanda Seager
Headteacher 8
East Pennard News East Pennard parish celebrated their Harvest Festival in style with a delicious lunch at the Coach House. Seventy five folk and children enjoyed boeuf
bourguignon and sticky toffee pudding followed by Gould’s cheese and biscuits with coffee, all cooked by Annie Austin of the Gourmet Cook company at Little Pennard. £1,200 was raised towards Church funds with many thanks
going to Michael Rodd for the church auction of produce, Martin Dearden for the renowned apple pie auction, Valerie Green for the raffle, and the Dearden family for use of the Coach House. The support and goodwill of so many of
the local community is much appreciated.
All Saints Patronal Festival All Saint’s Church celebrates its Patronal festival on Sunday 2nd November at
11am with the formal launch of its provision of Church Amenities appeal. Please support this project to improve your church facilities for the community with the provision of a servery and toilet for all those who use it, and for
future generations. Donations can be given to the Church Wardens or treasurer.
East Pennard Church Many thanks to the windows team, for all the lovely windows that you did for the harvest service. Flowers & Cleaning rota November Yonnis Gregory
Ruth Gregory
December Jean Hoare Joan Beer
Interested in flower arranging, or are you a public spirited person who would like to help out? We would welcome new members to join our friendly team. You don't need to be a Church goer, in fact most of the team aren't!
Please contact Bridget Wadey (Tel: 860240) if interested or know of someone who might be.
When I was young my parents told me what to do. Now I am old, my
children tell me what to do. When will I be able to do what I want?
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Produce sourced from
Somerset Organic farms
Pick your own produce
From our extensive list
Also available: Somerset
Yoghurts, cheese & preserves
www.hembridgeorganics.co.uk
Tel 01749 860693
Houses, Extensions, Garages & Roofs 01749 860632 / 07990 581936
www.williamlatta.co.uk
STABLE COMPUTERS Supply of New Computers and Accessories
PC and Internet Problems Solved Broadband and Router Installation
Virus and Spyware Removal
For Help & Advice Telephone
Daren on 01963 441229
Catherine Lewin BA (Hons) Professional Will Writer
WILLS LASTING POWERS OF
ATTORNEY T 01749 830297 Home Visits M 07770 44262 Free Quote E [email protected]
PYLLE NEWS Church Flowers and cleaning November Carolyn Fussell
December Teresa Rossiter January Hilary Tudsbery-Turner If the church is locked please contact the church wardens Teresa 831419,
Hilary 830538, Carolyn Fussell 830120, or Alan Cary 07896 945936 to obtain a key.
Ladies Working Party - Joanna Miln 838757 I am looking forward to being back with the Ladies Working Party for Lunch
on 5th November for the first time in 4 months – it seems to have been a very busy summer for me! We would welcome any new members and are still without a secretary if anybody is interested. We will meet at the Coffee Den
at 12noon on 5th November. Raffle from Carolyn please. Joanna will phone for your menu choices.
Family Winter Warmer Lunch Sunday 7th December After last years successful event we will once again be holding a family winter warmer lunch to celebrate the start of the Christmas season in Pylle Village
Hall on Sunday 7th December at 12 noon, Adults £6, Children £3 for lunch. We will be serving a hot meal so please book in advance with your menu choice: Beef, Chicken, or 3 bean (v) Casserole. All money raised will go to
Pylle Village Hall. To book please phone Joanna Miln 838757 Harvest Supper
There was a packed and happy hall on 13th October for Pylle’s Harvest Supper. We started the evening off when Canon Graham Hendy had us all
singing before saying grace which bought a smile to everybody’s face. After our warming meal we were delighted to welcome ‘Clem Pullen’ back for the first time in a few years when he entertained us so well with his amusing
‘ditties’ and wonderful singing voice. We went on to hold a successful auction and altogether raised £785.06 which will be split equally between the village hall and church. Our thanks must go to Phil Nicodemi from Lievito Bakery
in Lovington who not only baked all the potatoes for us, but was also most generous with the donation of the wonderful rolls we enjoyed with our meal and artisan loafs for the auction and raffle. We must not forget Jon Thorner,
Roy Trott, Stephen Brookesbank, Debbie Rossiter, and Hilary Tudsbery-Turner who all gave so generously towards the evening. A huge thank you also to all our wonderful helpers without whom the evening would never
have happened.
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Village Hall
To hire the hall: £7.50 per hour - £6.50 per hour for more than 4 regular bookings. More information and hall bookings contact Joanna Miln 838757
Pylle Singers – Pylle Village Hall – The singers meet every Monday at 7-9pm. For further details please contact Gill Oldaker 830110
ROLL ON WINTER FROM OUR RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS CORRESPONDENT
The Church’s share of the proceeds from the highly enjoyable and successful harvest supper was getting on for £400, money which will go towards the essential repair work to be carried out on the roof over the north side of the
building. Our vestry is still attracting water and it has been impossible to locate the point at which it is entering the church. With a little bit of luck this
will now be sorted. What with the repair work on the drains – again to the north – the installation of the new matting in the nave and now the roof, St Thomas’s should be warm and dry as well as smart and welcoming as we
approach the winter months. Grateful thanks to all who have made this possible. The harvest supper was the Revd Canon Graham Hendy’s first introduction to
the villagers en masse. He made himself at home instantly by initiating a rousing sung introduction to the grace. The evening started with a bang and continued in the same vein throughout.
Don’t forget to make a note of the date of the forthcoming carol service. Friday 19th December at 7.00pm. See you there.
Family Winter Warmer lunch
Sunday 7th December 12 noon
Lunch Adults £6, Children £3
Beef, Chicken, or 3 bean (v) Casserole
Pylle Village Hall
Please book in advance: Joanna Miln 838757
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Thank you Rose Hubbard for the pictures which are on the website.
13
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Higher Farm,
Sutton, Nr Ditcheat,
Shepton Mallet, Somerset
BA4 6QF
Opening hours Mon-Sat: 7.30am to 6.30pm
For
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Tel 01749 860199: Mobile 07771632221
How To Find Us
Turn off the A371 Castle Cary to Shepton Mallet road,
between Moff Motors and The Brook House Inn, and
then take the first turning left to Sutton. Follow this
road until you see our signs on the right, and then turn
right.
Hope to see you soon!
Long Batch Cottage
Wraxall Rd, Ditcheat
BA4 6RE
Cosy, self-catering
accommodation
with one double bedroom
available for weekend, midweek
and longer stays. Ask for Kevin or Chris 01749
860421
or 07505252650
www.longbatch.com
Child, Adolescent and Adult
Counsellor and Psychotherapist MA, PgDip, BSc
Based at
Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5NF
For further information see
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or contact me in complete confidence
07887 428 649 [email protected]
16
W.J.TROTMAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS (incorporating Oswald Clarke Funeral Directors of Bruton)
Ashdene, Cranmore, Shepton Mallet Somerset BA4 4QQ
Telephone: 01749 880271
A family run business for over four generations.
Private Chapel of Rest
Pre-Paid Funeral Plans Available
N E MOTORS
Engine tuning and Servicing Rolling Road Diagnosis Bay
including EFI and ABS problems solved.
For friendly local service telephone 01749 860123 or call at our workshop
in Harvester Yard, Ditcheat
Alison Bower
Pianist/Keyboard Player
Music tuition in the comfort of your own home.
music for all occasions Tel 01749 831250
07748 302533
Alisonpianist.co.uk
NATURAL WORLD
I was listening to the radio one morning recently, and this document, The Living Planet
Report 2014, published by WWF (The Worldwide Fund for Nature), was mentioned as a damming indictment of the state of the
planet. If you think that I am pessimistic regarding the welfare of wildlife, then you really should read this. It can be found by
googling ‘Living Planet Report 2014’. Believe me when I say that I have been extremely over
optimistic in my scribblings. I had no idea of the effects that we humans have had on the natural world in just over half my lifetime. The
figures relate to mammals, amphibians and fish only.
The total population of wild animals within those groups has decreased by 52% since 1970. More than half of the world’s animals gone!!! In an article published by Science Magazine it is reported that the
numbers of invertebrates has only dropped by a mere 45% in the same period, during which time, the human population has doubled. I don’t know about you, but I find those figures astounding. What really strikes me as odd
is that I have not heard a murmur from anybody on the subject since that Radio 4 item, yet this is devastating news. Whole items are given over to invasive species, such as the quagga mussel from Eastern Europe, but half of
the world’s animals disappearing seems not to matter that much.
On a much lighter note, I have been surprised on three occasions recently by the way that humans
and animals co-exist. On our way back from the Jubilee Hall (in the car) my wife spotted a
sparrowhawk which had found a dead wood pigeon on the pavement. Now, I had been
without a camera for most of the summer months, but my brand new one was in the car, and I
managed to fire off 27 shots, with the car acting as a makeshift hide. T h e sp a r ro wh awk s e em ed
17
unperturbed. In fact it seemed, on occasion, as though it was posing. Only
when the traffic started to build up behind did it think about moving on, but by this time it had enjoyed quite a hearty meal.
Frogs seem to get everywhere in our garden, and it is sometimes difficult to move in the vegetable patches without nearly treading on one. Before lighting a bonfire recently, I moved the heap to be burned and more than 10 frogs
scurried away. We also have a long handled net permanently placed down our well, as frogs and newts seem to leap over the edge for a pastime, and especially after rain. They conveniently head for the net, especially if there is
water in the well, and can be lifted to safety, as they cling to the handle.
Our cat has peculiar tastes and will
willingly drink from the pond, but will never drink tap water left for it in the house, and water placed
outside has to stand for a few days. It comes as no surprise then, that the water takes on a
green hue after a while, but it seems that it becomes attractive to other creatures in the vicinity. This small frog had decided that the cat‘s drinking bowl would make a perfect swimming
pool, and was either content to swim around in circles, or was unable to get out again.
As autumn draws in, we have lost most of our summer visitors now, with only the odd swallow hanging on by its toenails, but it is good to know that the Levels have been home to some wonderful birds during the excellent summer
weather. The Great White Egrets returned once more and an Osprey spent three weeks at Shapwick. Even more exciting, in my book, was a now very
scarce Lesser Spotted Woodpecker seen on several occasions, and by quite a few people. Many confuse the Greater Spotted and Lesser Spotted, but the latter is only the size of a sparrow and is in serious decline nationwide.
What does November hold in store for us? According to the Daily Express we are set for an Arctic winter starting in early November, but who believes the
Daily Express? What we could really do with is a winter that has winter traits. That way nature is not thrown out of kilter, and birds will start to nest at the right time, rather than attempting to raise a brood in January.
Stewart Gould – [email protected]
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A Quiz in the Hall
Saturday 8th November
Bring those minds of useless info to the fore.
You will be surprised what you do know…
There is nothing like a bit of healthy competition.
And it is also great fun.
Our Quiz master is Robin Cockle
Ditcheat Village Hall 7pm for 7.30pm start
£10 per table. No more than 6 per table
Individuals are welcome and can be ‘teamed up’
Can bar
Beer,Lager & Cider Red/White Wine
And soft drinks.
For further information contact
Sally Atkins 860326 Eleanor Yeoman 860337
Jo Curtis 860898
DITCHEAT JUBILEE HALL
Dear FTN reader
Ditcheat Jubilee Hall has recently received a very generous and substantial bequest in the Will of a former resident of the village who sadly passed away earlier this year.
As Trustees of the Hall, we are very conscious that the building is a community asset and, as such, the community should have a say as to how this money should be spent in improving the fabric and facilities.
If you have any suggestions as to how we can best use this money please could you contact the Jubilee Hall Committee Secretary, Hilary Clark either via email ([email protected]) or by telephone (860603). The
closing date for your suggestions is 15th November. Ideas so far include replacement chairs and revamping the rear of the building to enable outdoor use.
We look forward to your suggestions. From The Ditcheat Jubilee Hall Trustees
AGM of the Committee of the Trustees of the Ditcheat Jubilee Hall will be held on the 20th January 2015 at 7.30pm in the Jubilee Hall.
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Saturday Stitch
This month we’re trying Needle Felting. November 8th in Ditcheat
This is great fun, producing quick and easy results. Flat pieces of felt can be
worked or try making 3 dimensional creations. Special barbed needles work
the woollen fibres, making them stick together to form shapes.
We will have basic felting materials and needles for you to use, just let me
know if you would like to come and try.
Future dates
November 22nd Castle Cary
December dates to be confirmed
Meet 10.30am, finish at 4pm
Sally Yeoman 01749 860304/07929 097374 [email protected]
Its autumn time
Pick up the threads and spend cosy evenings creating and making.
A mother was preparing pancakes for her sons Kevin, five, and Ryan, three. When the boys began to argue over who would get the first
pancake, she decided to give them a moral lesson. ‘If Jesus was sitting here, He would say: ‘Let my brother have the first pancake, I can wait.’ There was a brief pause of astonishment and then Kevin rallied.
Turning on his younger brother he said: “Ryan, you be Jesus!”
A small boy returned from Sunday School in floods of tears. When
questioned by his mother about his distressed state, he sobbed: “Jesus wants me for a sunbeam, but I want to be a train driver!”
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Email. [email protected]
Clothing and Lifestyle Emporium…ladies
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gifts, and locally made Christmas products
POP UP Shop
Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm
From Saturday 8th November until Sunday 21
December
At
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Showroom 1, Evercreech Junction
BA4 6NA
(just on the A371 near The Natterjack Pub)
Plenty of Free Parking
Or email
[email protected] for more information
or for a private shopping appointment in Ditcheat
anytime.
www.roseandlyons.co.uk
THIS SPACE TO LET!
for just £7.50 per month
email:-
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01749 860067
60mm x 93mm
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Yenstone Walling and Paving
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All types of stone walling Small and large jobs undertaken
Landscaping / groundworks and
site clearance undertaken
01963 371123
07791588141 [email protected]
www.yenstonewalling.co.uk
Gardening It looks as though the beautiful Indian Summer is drawing to a close and we really do need the rain. The ground has been almost impossible to dig for
weeks and it is time to get the bulbs in for next spring. November is quite a busy time in the garden – great for getting the borders in shape for next year, giving apple trees a prune and planting out garlic and broad beans.
There is still time to plant bulbs and tulips in particular benefit from later planting.
As with all pruning, and apples are no different, start by removing any dead or diseased branches and any that are crossing each other. Shorten the
central shoots by a quarter and then cut sideshoots back to three buds to encourage them to change into fruiting spurs.
November is the traditional month for planting tulips as there is a reduced risk of them getting fungal disease (tulip fire). Instead of placing bulbs on the ground before planting it is a good idea to chuck them and plant them where
they land. This gives a more natural feel. All bulbs should be planted roughly two to two and a half times the depth of the bulb.
Clear out the vegetable patch and dig over. Any larger clods of earth are likely to be broken down by frost during the winter months. Clearance will also get rid of anything that may be harbouring pests and diseases. Plant out
garlic and broad beans as mentioned above. Continue to tidy up the borders. A lot of perennials have really attractive
seed heads and these look wonderful during the winter months, giving structure and interest to an otherwise rather colourless scheme. However,
there are others that are past their best and they need to be chopped down and added to the compost heap. Any that are showing signs of disease are better burned. Remember, the one exception to the rule is the Penstemon.
This should be cut down in the spring so that the tender new growth is not damaged by winter frosts. Most ornamental grasses can be left until spring before cutting back.
If you are not sure about perennials, can I suggest you go and look at Piet Odolf’s field at Hauser and Wirth in Bruton. I have been a huge fan of Piet’s
for the last 20 odd years and his planting is inspirational. If you do go and have trouble sourcing any of the plants, just let me know – I use them all regularly.
The weeds will not be so prolific at this time of year and it is really worth getting them out of the border before the spring.
23
Give grass a final cut with the blades on the highest setting. I always leave
this quite late so that I collect as many fallen leaves as possible at the same time, having composted the rest. If this is likely to be the final cut then have a good look at the mower. Clean away any grass stuck to the bottom
and on the blades. Have it serviced now rather than in the spring.
If you have a pond, put a floating ball in it to stop the water from freezing
over. The same applies to bird baths – a piece of polystyrene does the same job. The reason for avoiding ice forming is because it traps methane gas which is released by decaying vegetation and this can, in turn, be deadly to
fish. Concrete pools are also vulnerable to cracking as the ice expands. Remove leaves and put on the compost heap.
Clean the greenhouse, inside and out, if you didn’t get a chance to do it last
month. It is really important to keep them disease free . If you are overwintering plants check them over once a week and remove any dead
leaves or flowers. Sweep up the floor just in case anything diseased has fallen.
We could get frosts any time now and if you do have more tender plants in
the garden protect them with straw and fleece. Cannas and dahlias should be lifted and stored.
Bare root trees and hedging are available from November to March and this is a very cost effective way of planting larger specimens. If you need any help and advice with planting schemes do get in touch. I am able to buy at very
competitive prices and have access to unusual varieties not necessarily available in garden centres. Happy gardening Jane Follis (860850)
USED STAMPS FOR CHARITY
For those readers of a certain age, you will remember, no doubt, the days of the Blue Peter Christmas Used Stamp Appeal which encouraged viewers to
collect and send in used postage stamps for charity. With the advent of the internet and emails the use of stamps has markedly declined, although I am sure many people still receive Christmas cards.
However, used stamps still remain valuable for charities who can obtain money for them. If anyone wishes to make a donation to charity, without actually spending
any money, then all you need to do is collect the stamps from your daily post. If you bring them each month to Rendezvous, or arrange for someone to take them for you, the Rendezvous Team will have a box for you to put them in
and they will pass them onto charity on your behalf. Thanks in anticipation for your support for this initiative.
The Rendezvous Team
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New Music Classes for Young Children in Ditcheat
Do you have children of pre-school age? Do you, like me, believe that all children enjoy and develop through music? Then Jacappella music classes are for you and start at Ditcheat Jubilee Hall with free trial sessions on
Wednesday 5th and Wednesday 12th November at 10.45. Classes are open to all children between 3 months and school age so do come along and enjoy the fun.
How does it work? Jacappella classes combine singing, action songs and activities in fun 30-
minute sessions and age-appropriate material and musical instruments are used. Each year, children receive a new set of course materials which include their personal Jacappella ‘My Musical Journey’ book with actions and lyrics,
places to record all their musical milestones and a CD of original Jacappella songs on which lessons are based. Medals, certificates and reports are awarded to the children in December and July.
Your Jacappella class teacher My name is Tricia Rees-Jones and I am an
experienced class music teacher having been Head of Junior School Music at Giggleswick School in
North Yorkshire for 6 years, teaching all children from nursery to year 6 and above. I’m passionate that children living in more rural locations such as
this wonderful part of Somerset do not miss out on the opportunities which are on offer in more urban locations and so I am delighted to be able to offer Jacappella classes in
Ditcheat. How much does it cost?
Initially, nothing! Classes on Wednesdays 5th and 12th November are free trial sessions, so do come along. Once you have decided to sign up, there is an annual £20 registration fee to cover the course materials. Each weekly
session then costs £4.00 with a 50% discount for siblings. Classes operate term-time only.
To sign up for classes and to find out more about me and Jacappella, please visit www.jacappella.co.uk, phone me on 01749 330161 or email
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VILLAGE LUNCH
The Village Lunch is held on the last Tuesday of the month
in the Jubilee Hall at 12.30pm.
Menu for 25th November
Oxtail Soup Carrot & Coriander Soup
Leek & Potato Soup Ploughmans
~~~~~
Selection of Puddings ~~~~~
Tea or Coffee. £4.00 per person.
If you would like to come let either Chrys Henning (860352) or Vee Lees (860542) know by the previous Wednesday, (19th).
There will be a raffle as usual - any prizes will be welcome.
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The Rendezvous
Tuesday 11th November
Ditcheat Folk Dance Club
F Din the ubilee Hall
Caller Peter Boltonwith Rough Round the Edges
Entrance £ inc ludes l ight refreshments
Deirdre
Ama
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Thomas Kenrick
Re- pointing
Re-Pointing Specialist. Building Conservation. Stone Masonry.
A l h a m p t o n 8 6 0 9 2 9 M o b 0 7 7 4 6 2 1 8 0 6 2
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Mike Doyle
Home Maintenance
All types of property maintenance
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Wood/Laminate Floor
Laying
Wooden Decking
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Patio Laying
Insurance Quotes/Work
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Hayley Spencer MAAT
Accounts Book Keeping Tax Self-Assessment
Management Accounts VAT
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Tel: 01749 860857
CHURCH SERVICES FOR NOVEMBER
Saturday 1st All Souls at Ditcheat – Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
4.00pm
Sunday 2
nd All Saints Day
9.30am. Parish Communion at Ditcheat –
Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
11.00am Service for All Saints with Parish Communion, at East Pennard
Revd.Canon Graham Hendy
Sunday 9th
Remembrance Sunday
10.40am Act of Remembrance at East Pennard
11.00am Service of Remembrance at East Pennard – Revd. Stuart Munns
3.00pm “ Lets Celebrate” at Ditcheat – Mrs Jean Halford
Tuesday 11th
10.00 a.m. United Benefice Midweek Communion at Ditcheat - followed by
10.40am Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial, Ditcheat –
Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
Sunday 16th
2nd
Sunday before Advent
8.00am BCP said Holy Communion, Ditcheat – Revd. Jesse Sage
11.00am Parish Communion at East Pennard –
Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
Sunday 23rd
Christ the King, Sunday next before Advent
9.30am. Parish Communion at Alhampton - Revd. John Sclater
Sunday 30th
1st Sunday of Advent
11.00am United Benefice Communion, East Pennard –
Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
4.00pm Advent Service Candle light and Carols –
Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
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SERVICES FOR DECEMBER
Sunday 7th
All 2nd
Sunday of Advent
9.30 a.m. Parish Communion at Ditcheat - Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
11.00am Service for All Saints at East Pennard –
Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
Tuesday 9th
10.00am United Benefice Midweek Communion at Ditcheat –
Revd. Canon Graham Hendy
Patronal Message ~ In the Departure Lounge Very recently a special friend of mine died – treatment for liver cancer earlier in the
year failed to live up to expectation, and a few weeks ago I had an email from his wife: ‘I lost my beautiful husband this morning’. The next day she wrote: ‘the end was very peaceful: as our vicar said a good and holy death surrounded by all his family’. So
ended a friendship of some 45 years – we had been at college together and then curates together, creating those formative ties that one does in one’s twenties. In recent years we had both celebrated Ruby Weddings and Ruby Jubilees of Priesting.
November is a month when death is very much in our minds: All Saints’ Day when we celebrate the unknown holy ones of God; All Souls’ Day when we remember our own loved ones who, in St Paul’s words, have fallen asleep; Remembrance Sunday and 11th November when we think of those who have died in war; and, on the Sunday before Advent, we celebrate Christ the King, who Christians believe, will meet us all at the End.
A few weeks ago I heard the phrase ‘in the departure lounge’ to describe the last days of someone dying. In an era when flights and voyages are so much part of life for so
many people, it seemed an apt description: excitement, apprehension, sadness, joy – and so many other emotions. But for those left behind an undeniable sense of loss.
As I mentioned in last month’s FTN we will be keeping ALL SOULS on Saturday 1st November at Ditcheat Church (4.00 pm). It will be a quiet reflective service (lasting no more than 45 minutes) in which the names of the faithful departed are
read out, and relatives invited to light a candle. Those bereaved over the last few years are particularly invited, but anyone will be welcome as we never forget those close to us.
On All Saints’ Day Sunday 2nd we will also be celebrating East Pennard’s Patronal Festival (11am E.P.church)
Finally we are pleased that Helen Nicholls, who lives in Ditcheat and has training and experience in bereavement support has just been appointed as a Grief Counsellor for the Benefice. More details shortly.
Graham Hendy
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DITCHEAT BOOK GROUP Amitav Ghosh’s The Hungry Tide
Review by Clare West
Off the easternmost corner of India lies the Bay of Bengal. On the map you can see the immense labyrinth of tiny islands known as the Sundarbans, where life is extremely dangerous for the settlers, who are in constant fear of
powerful tides and man-eating tigers. Piya Roy, a young American marine biologist of Indian descent, arrives in this exotic but treacherous landscape, looking for a rare species of river dolphin; she decides to work with a local
fisherman and also accepts help from a translator who has family in the area. These three main characters allow the author to elaborate on his themes of
environmentalism, poverty and identity. Amitav Ghosh, Oxford-educated, now living in New York, is one of India’s
best known writers, whose other books include Sea of Poppies and The Glass Palace. This is a big, ambitious, brilliantly-researched book – a story of science, adventure and history. You will learn more about river dolphins than
you thought possible! The star character, however, is the Sundarbans. The author gives us a
superbly evocative description of the world’s biggest mangrove forest and of the creatures which live there. It is a primitive landscape of water and silt – a flat land, low against a menacingly stormy sky. Amitav Ghosh is clearly
familiar with the area, and every word is believable. In particular, the description of the cyclone, towards the end of the book, is highly convincing and makes for gripping reading.
Perhaps the human interactions in the book might have benefited from some
of the passion the author shows when he deals with the geography of the Bengal delta or the scientific study of dolphins. Some of the characters are rather undeveloped, and some of the dialogue doesn’t ring quite true. And
although Amitav Ghosh is an amazing storyteller, with a real knack of keeping his narrative moving fluidly between past and present, he does create a lot of parallel side stories, which are not seamlessly linked to the main plot – this
can make it hard to keep track of what is happening. Still, most of us were very impressed by this book. In particular, we admired
the writer’s ability to plunge us deep into an unfamiliar, threatening world, and to make us address important concerns like wildlife conservation versus the needs of indigenous people, poverty in developing countries versus
wealth in developed ones, and so on. There is also an ingenious ending, which deals with the aftermath of the cyclone and its tragic outcome in a highly constructive way.
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Haddon Wood Final Community Planting!
Saturday 22 November 10.00
The planting of the very last of the native broadleaf trees has had to wait for the pond works. The pond is now completed so we can plant the remaining 200 or so trees on the downhill side of the pond.
We have to wait until this time of year as the trees will be planted bare-
rooted. Hopefully the weather will be kind, but whatever it’s like, please come and help - just bring along a spade!
For more information about Haddon Wood contact Hilary Harrison 860615 or look at the blog at http://www.friendsofhaddonwood.wordpress.com/
‘Close Encounters with Animals’ Talk by Colonel John
Blashford-Snell Colonel John Blashford-Snell OBE, one of the world’s most renowned
explorers, is giving a talk in Pilton Village Hall in aid of the Royal British Legion, Pilton Branch, at 7pm on Friday 12th December. Colonel Blashford-Snell supports numerous charities, working with
underprivileged youth in the UK. He undertakes countless community aid projects in remote parts of the world.
His exploring career started in 1968 when he led a team to explore and make the first descent of the infamous Blue Nile. One of his main interests is in the wild life he has encountered in the jungles and desolate places of his
expeditions. Tickets are £10– Tel 01749 899136 or email [email protected]
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Hembridge Organics entered their Tayberry jam in the National Soil Association Food Awards. The Tayberries are grown at Avalon Vineyard, East
Pennard. With over 400 entrants we were chuffed for our jam to be judged as a finalist. The last part of the judging was a consumer vote which we knew we didn’t stand a chance of winning as we were up against huge
companies with vast marketing budgets and departments. In October the finalists were invited to the Soil Association Conference held at the Swindon Railway museum, where we were given the opportunity to “show case” the
Tayberry Jam and the rest of our jams and chutneys. We would like to thank all of our customers for voting for us in the Soil
Association National Food Awards. We didn’t win but it was great to meet like minded organic producers and look forward to our next competition! Our
preserves can be found at Gould’s cheese shop, East Pennard. Best wishes
Kerry & Jeremy Dodd
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News from up on the hill... Well summer is well and truly over and up here on the hill we hasten our ‘batten down the hatches plan’ ready for winter. The wind has already taken
its toll on the ferret block roof! Thank you to Mark, one of our fab volunteer DIY team, for coming to the rescue.
While on the subject of volunteers we would like to thank everyone who helps out at Happy Landings we really couldn’t do it without you. We are very lucky to have so many committed volunteers who give time during their week to
come and help out. Dog walking, cat cuddling, reception, cleaning, DIY, gardening, admin, you name it we have volunteers helping with it and we
really appreciate every single minute of your time. We also had amazing support at our Fun Day and Dog Show in September, both in the lead up to it and on the day, thank you all so much.
The weather couldn’t have been better for the show, such a difference from last year, we had record numbers for the class entries, the scurry (thank you
Lisa Glover) and the agility (thank you Sandra) proved as popular as ever. We were delighted to have as our special guest Wylie dog who was the winner of Scrufts at this year’s Crufts dog show beating thousands of other
entrants. Thank you so much to Sarah for bringing him and if you haven’t read all about his story yet then ask for a copy of his book for Christmas “Wylie the brave street dog who never gave up” by Pen Farthing.
A big thank you to all stallholders and supporters, and to everyone who came. We have been out and about as always this summer taking our stall to
events, running/judging dog shows or giving talks. At all the events the highlight has to be meeting up with adopters and catching up on all the news
about the animals they have adopted. We love to hear their stories and we do also get regular email updates and photos from dogs and cats happily rehomed (with a little bit of help from their owners) If you have adopted an
animal from us and haven’t been in touch for a while we genuinely would love to know how they are doing, with a photo.
2015 will be our 20th anniversary of being at Happy Landings. For those of you who don’t know how we started here is the brief history....
In 1978 a little dog called Buffer inspired Annabelle Walter to start up a rescue centre, he was the worst rescue case she had ever seen. He had been tied on a chain for 14 months, was malnourished and dehydrated, had
mange, and other various parasitic problems, he weighed just 11lbs and was dying. His owner was eventually taken to court but was only fined a derisory
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£25.00 even though he had caused so much suffering. In Annabelle’s
capable hands Buffer made a full recovery although very slow, but his remarkable fighting spirit pioneered a lifetime of animal rescue for Annabelle. Buffer became famous and appeared in numerous papers and magazines as
well as an appearance on Esther Rantzen’s TV show ‘That’s Life’ in May 1987. Annabelle raised some initial funds by taking her horse and gypsy wagon and a variety of other animals on two treks. One from Kent to Somerset and back
in 1981. The second in 1982 for a 1000 miles raisng over £1000. With her parents help they eventually found and bought Heaven’s Gate at West Henley near Langport and the charity was registered in 1983. I mention this because
just last month Annabelle’s mum Betty sadly passed away, it would have been her 90th birthday in January 2015.
We have also lost other dear friends this year, both two legged and four. It has been a sad time as we have said goodbye to wonderful adopters, long
term boarding animals that we have come to know so well and some of our ex rescues. For some it has come at the end of a fabulous and fulfilled life, in the case of recent adopters it has been way too soon and we extend our
deeply felt condolences to family and friends. We would very much like to remember cherished loved ones so look out for our ‘Paws for Thought’ and online memory wall Christmas campaign throughout December.
We will also be running an online auction to raise funds during November and early December so look out for that too.
At the start I thanked our wonderful volunteers but I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our supporters, both individual and corporate. We
exist to help the animals and people in this community and we simply couldn’t continue the important work we do without the help and support we receive from the people and companies of this community. Thank you to each and every person who has donated money or goods
during the year and a huge thank you to Delaware Vets, Framptons Transport, Crown Pet Foods, Timberland, Thatchers of Wells and Tesco Shepton Mallet.
A Somerset parish magazine told how ministers from the Welsh valleys
were distressing the older members of the Chapel by the length of their sermons. On one occasion an elderly man greeted the minister: “And what is the subject of your sermon this morning?”
“The milk of human kindness,” replied the minister. “Ah,” the old man mused a moment. “Condensed, I hope?” (From Peterborough in The Daily Telegraph)
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Charlotte Clements Child, Adolescent and Adult Counsellor and
Psychotherapist, MA, PgDip, Cert., BSc www.charlotteclements.co.uk
[email protected] 07887 428 649
Life can be overwhelming and stressful at times, and from an early age, we may develop unhelpful coping strategies and defences, losing our true selves
along the way. I provide a warm, safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space, in which I can
work together with children and adults of all ages to help them gain insights into and find ways to manage challenging emotions and behaviours. This in turn will help them discover their true voice and authentic selves and fulfill
their potential in life. I am a highly qualified and experienced child, adolescent and adult counsellor
and psychotherapist, trained to Masters level, and have been practicing since 2007 in various capacities.
My work is Integrative, which means I am trained to use different techniques such as, Play Therapy, Sand-Tray Therapy, Art Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, amongst others. I am also Person-Centred, meaning I
see us as equals and highly value the thoughts, feelings and experiences someone may bring to the therapeutic process.
I work long or short term (minimum of 6 weeks), dependent on a person's needs and have helped people to cope with a wide range of issues including
depression, trauma, anxiety, anger, abuse and bereavement amongst others. I work in the lovely setting of Kilver Court in Shepton Mallet.
In the initial session I will take down some information such as what is currently troubling you, or your child, contact details, some personal history,
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I am accredited with UKCP, a registered member of BACP and have regular supervision.
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Royal British Legion East Pennard Branch The last few weeks of our Legion routine have been turned upside down by the untimely death of one of our most esteemed and long serving members,
Mr John Wood. John had been ill for a number of years, yet it was still a terrible shock to be told by his family that he had passed away. He died on 24th September and a Service of Thanksgiving was held at St Peter’s Church,
Evercreech, on Monday 6th October. I was very privileged to be invited to say a few words about John’s involvement with the Legion. It was very difficult to convey the high regard with which John was held by the Branch
compared with the very modest way John went about influencing Branch activities for over 50 years.
John joined the East Pennard branch of the Legion in 1963. In those days the East Pennard branch and the Ditcheat branch were quite separate and
didn’t link up until 1990. It wasn't long before John was voted on to the committee and made responsible for Membership and subs, a job he was to carry out for more than 40 years. I took over from John and it didn’t take
long at all to realise what a difficult job it was to try and gather cash in every year for every member (even if you do have some help), try and justify the continuous hike in fees, and at the same time try to at least maintain the
numbers and ideally increase the membership. When I first took over, the Branch was averse to using Direct Debit on account of the fact that gathering in the cash meant that each member was seen once a year at least. You can
probably remember me talking about it. It didn’t take long for me to change my tune and fall in line with the Legion’s push to get the membership across to DD. And to think that John did it the old fashioned way for over 40
years. It really was quite remarkable. At the same time, he was also given responsibility for organising the annual dinner. At least the workload for
these jobs was at different times of the year. The dinner has always been a social occasion first, and a fund raising event
second. In the early days funds raised at the dinner were used to buy tea and biscuits and other such essentials, for a number of people in the local area who the committee thought would really benefit and appreciate such a
gift at Christmas. These things don’t happen on their own, and it was John’s job to maintain the list, organise the shop to produce the box or hamper of ‘goodies’ and of course get them delivered. In those days the Legion
appeared to be quite relaxed about branches using their own funds for such purposes and this practice continued for over 40 years, mainly down to John.
John’s conscientious work was eventually recognised outside the Branch and in 1975 he was awarded a ‘certificate in recognition’ of his services by the Mid Somerset Group of the Legion. In 1985 another ‘certificate in
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appreciation’ was awarded by Somerset County. As mentioned previously the
East Pennard and the Ditcheat branch decided to amalgamate in 1990, and needless to say, John retained his position on the new committee and continued with his excellent work on membership and the annual dinner. By
now you are probably forming the opinion that the Legion really doesn’t rush to show its appreciation for work within the branches and another 18 years passed before the Branch submitted a report on John to HQ which resulted in
the award of a Gold Badge. These are few and far between and are given in recognition of outstanding achievement.
Throughout his time with the Branch, John made countless visits to hospitals to see members, kept in touch with them when they returned home, and still managed to attend most meetings. In later years he tended to keep his own
council when new members came up with some wacky ideas, but was always willing to share his vast local knowledge and Legion experience when
asked. There wasn’t much he hadn’t seen before. ‘Seen that, done that’ springs to mind. Even after the start of his various illnesses he still managed to organise the annual dinner, ably supported as usual by his wife Pam, and it
was only relatively recently that he reluctantly handed over the reins of his various duties.
His was a hard act to follow. Any branch, anywhere, would have given their eye teeth to have a member like John. I have lost count of the number of times we asked him to be our Branch President. He always refused. I
suspect on the grounds that he, modestly, didn’t think he was the right man for the job. He couldn’t have been more wrong. We will miss him. We Will Remember Him.
Of all people, John would have been most disappointed if he thought we had allowed his absence to affect the normal running of the Branch, so, with his
wise advice to ‘get on with it’, ringing in my ears, let’s ‘get on’ with what else has been happening in the Branch. I am, of course referring to updating you
on our annual quiz which was held at the Coffee Den on Sunday 28th September. Well, if you were there I hope you agree with me that it was an outstanding event, probably the best we have had, and in my humble opinion
it was all down to Shaun Smith, the quizmaster and the staff at the Den. Shaun has a gift for choosing a wide variety of questions that you feel that you ought to know the answers to, but they have just slipped to the back
of your mind. It certainly keeps your interest and nobody should leave feeling it was completely beyond them. We knew all the answers really………………..just couldn’t remember them. Thank you Shaun your
efforts were much appreciated. As were the efforts of the Coffee Den staff who once again looked after us brilliantly. Drinks were served at tables on arrival and the food, which was excellent, was timed to perfection and served
43
very promptly with the minimum of fuss. I think the winning team were
called ‘the Woodturners’. If I’m wrong I apologise, but they were from Ditcheat and Little Pennard. Well done, they walked away with 4 bottles of wine and very well deserved.
Of course, we had to have a raffle. It wouldn’t be a Legion event without a good old raffle. We had managed to scrounge 3 prizes. One was a voucher
towards a meal at the Natterjack pub, which, when you consider the number of requests for help they receive, we were very lucky to get. Another was two tickets to a film very kindly donated by Strode Theatre and, last but
definitely not least, a visit to Air Traffic Control at RNAS Yeovilton for a family of four, which is very difficult to obtain. So, how lucky were we then ! We made £60 on the raffle and a further £40+ because the lady who won the trip
to Yeovilton was not able to go and decided to put the prize up for auction. What a kind and considerate lady !! So, £100 in the funds from the
raffle. We also made a bit of money from the food charges but some of that went towards a tip for the staff and a bottle of ‘thanks’ to the quizmaster. All in all, a very successful evening I believe. Thank you to everybody who made
the effort to attend and make the evening so enjoyable. It is always a huge relief when some event like the quiz night goes very well
and everybody has such a good time. Makes it all feel worthwhile, especially when you think we can help somebody else as a result of us having a good time. Sounds like a win-win situation to me.
Remembrance; just round the corner when you read this. The Sunday parade is on the 9th November at East Pennard gathering between 10.15 and
10.30 to start at around 10.45am. What I refer to as the main parade will be on Tuesday 11th November at Ditcheat, again starting at about 10.45am. We will be joined by the children from Ditcheat school who are
going to help us by reading the Names; and then there is Rendezvous!! Coffee after the Parade, sounds great !! Our next meeting is 4th November
starting at 8pm at the Chairman’s studio. It is early so we can tie up loose ends for Remembrance.
Pilton Community Allotment Association We have a few allotment plots likely to be vacated this Autumn.
Anyone interested please contact our secretary, Freda, for more information. 01749 890345
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A. TREVENEN PASCOE BSc. (Hons) Ost. Med. ND.
OSTEOPATH 42 High Street Shepton Mallet Somerset
BA4 5AS Tel. (01749) 342594 PPP/AXA and BUPA recognised
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Précis of the draft minutes from the Ditcheat Parish
Council meeting held on the 11th September 2014. PRESENT: Chairman: Councillor Evans (CE), Councillors Clark (HC), Hutton (RH), Hughes (LH), Greenhalgh (JG), Harrison (HH) and Shirley (BS). IN ATTENDANCE: The Clerk – Miss P Griffiths. BY INVITATION – District Councillor J Crossley (JC). PUBLIC PARTICIPATION – There were no members of the public present. COUNTY AND DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS - JC had nothing specific to report but was happy to answer any questions. REPORT FROM AVON & SOMERSET CONSTABULARY- PCSO DURY/BEAT OFFICER there were no incidents to report. MATTERS ARISING - from the meeting held on 31st July 2014. Update on possible breach of planning conditions at Snagg Lane and Long Batch – No update available; the Clerk will follow up for the next meeting. Parking in ‘No Through Road’ by Champs Way – no further update available; the Clerk will follow up for the next meeting. Flooding/pooling of water at the eastern end of Jacobs Lane – HH informed the Council that the suggestion to use the machinery undertaking the work on the pond was put forward but that the Woodland Trust manager had decided to use another contractor Fingerpost repair/replacement in Kite Lane - Noted that this had not been completed although the Clerk confirmed that it was on the list to be done. Dog fouling in Alhampton - the problem continues with the additional problem of dogs knocking over the food waste bins when the have been put out for collection and when in private gardens. The dogs responsible for upsetting the food waste bins were believed to come from The Court as well as Manor Farm. It was resolved that a letter should be sent to the residents of The Court about the dog fouling , the dog roaming out of control and the upsetting of the food waste bins. The Clerk will also contact the Dog Warden and the Environmental Health Manager to advise of the additional matter and also contact the local PCSO/Beat Officer. JC will visit Mrs Jackson to discuss the matter and express the PC’s ongoing concern. JG reported that he had been approached by a parishioner complaining of the ongoing problem of dog fouling at the end of Kite Lane. The parishioner intimated that the owners of the dogs were known to the PC. Fly tipping of grass cuttings on the bank of the ditch by the access lane and the back of the properties of Lintern Close CE reported that he had cleared most of the grass cuttings and had put up a notice asking that for the fly tipping to stop – there had been no repeat to date. Repairs for the Sutton to Ditcheat footpath – CE reported that slow but steady progress was being made by a small group of volunteers. Local Plan and HELAA – The Clerk confirmed that the letter as agreed at previous meeting was sent to MDC. Vegetation growth on pavement by Alhampton notice board – it was noted that JD had cleared the pavement.
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PC Website – maintenance of the website – the Clerk and CE will contact RY to resolve the matter. The Clerk reported that following concern raised by the Clerk at the previous meeting that the PC response to a planning application had not been recorded on the MDC website an email had been sent by the Planning Department manager confirming that the correct procedure had been followed and apologised for the error by MDC. The implications of the draft Openness of Local Government Bodies Regulations 2014. (Documentation circulated via email prior to meeting) were noted. LH raised some concern that filming and recording of the PC meetings could be undertaken without the express knowledge of the PC. It was however accepted unanimously that transparency of decision making was paramount. The Clerk confirmed that it would be necessary to amend the Standing Orders (SO) of the Council. The request from the Southwest Resilience Campaign to support the campaign to improve the South West’s transport network including road and rail services was considered. Resolved that the PC should support the campaign particularly the road services as it was felt that the parish was reasonably served by the rail network. PLANNING - The application to approve details reserved by condition for application 2013/2299 concerning conditions 3 (sample panel) and 4 (landscaping) has received approval for dwelling on plot south of Park House, Wraxall Road, Ditcheat was noted. The approval, with conditions, of planning application 2014/1083/HSE – Homefield, Wraxall was noted. FINANCE - Balance of accounts – The Clerk gave a verbal report; the cash book balance of all accounts was £17,121.57. The quotation for the repair to the four PC noticeboards was discussed; the total for all the noticeboards was £995.00 which is less than the cost of a new noticeboard. Resolved to accept the quotation. It was resolved to approve the following payments and authorise the signing of the cheques: Mr C Evans for path work materials - £92.89; Wicksteed Leisure for the materials for the repair of the safety matting in the playground - £47.40; Tony’s Garden Services for grounds maintenance in the playground and village green – July £195.00 and August £195.00. The payment to the following, as agreed (see MIN 113/14 e)) was noted: The Parochial Church Council of Ditcheat for grant towards upkeep of the churchyard - £500.00. The outcome of the external audit was noted – no comments from the auditor. PARISH PLAN: Update on action plans – HH reported that following the ‘summer recess’ meetings would be held in the forthcoming weeks and that progress will be reported at the next meeting. HIGHWAYS: Update on repairs previously reported: The poor visibility by turning off the A371 at Snagg Lane – The Clerk reported that whilst the verge had been cut the visibility was still poor and that the matter had been reported to the Area Manager and also to the Highways reporting help desk. It was understood that a parishioner had approached the landowner of the
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field to request that the vegetation is cut back. The potholes at the T junction on the Alhampton to Ditcheat road – noted that this work was outstanding. The dotted line at junction by Valley View – not completed. Dead branch overhanging road on Ditcheat Hill – CE had endeavoured to contact the landowner but did not consider the matter an imminent danger. Efforts to contact the owner will continue. New matters for report to the Highways authority: HH reported that the gulley in ‘No Through Road’ Alhampton outside Homeacres was frequently flooded, the level of the top of the gulley itself was below the surrounding road surface which exacerbated the problem. The workmen clearing the drains had suggested that the gulley drained into a sealed chamber and did not drain away. The Clerk will report that matter to the Highways Agency. RH reported that the problem of vehicles parking on the verge by the Castle Cary Rugby Football Club (CCRFC) had recurred despite signs indicating that there should be no parking on the verge. The PC is yet again very concerned about the very serious danger that this causes. Resolved that JG will speak to the CCRFC committee members. FEEDBACK FROM COUNCILLORS ATTENDING ‘THE RENDEZVOUS’ - CE reported that at the August Rendezvous concern was raised again about vehicles parking on the pavement adjacent to Two Wells in Ditcheat. The Clerk will report the matter to PCSO Dury. At the September ‘Rendezvous’ LH had been approached by a parishioner expressing concern that the post of the pub sign at the Brook House Inn caused an obstruction when looking left when preparing to exit onto the A371. The Clerk will write to the landlord of the pub. ITEMS OF REPORT AND INCLUSION ON AGENDA FOR THE NEXT MEETING. Chairman – CE read out the email from the new beat officer for the area PC 915 Lucy Bagnowiec. In the email PC Bagnowiec suggested that as there were no speed limits in the Parish that “it may be an idea to place signs up like ‘children playing please drive slow.’ The personal touch I think makes people, especially outsiders to the village think twice about their speed.” The Clerk will forward the email to all councillors and contact the Highways Agency to check if this would be feasible. Members – LH raised the matter of the Speed Indicator Device (SID) report. JG will speak to the Traffic Engineer about the concerns of all councillors following the recently circulated report about speeds on the A37 by the Wraxall crossroads. Date of the next full meeting - Thursday 23rd October 2014 at 7.30pm in the Church room. FOR INFORMATION: The agenda for all meetings is displayed on the PC website www.ditcheatparishcouncil.org.uk and each of the notice boards in the parish i.e. Alhampton, Ditcheat, Sutton and Wraxall at least 3 working days prior to the meeting. Any comments or suggestions regarding these or future précised minutes would be welcome. Please contact the Clerk on telephone 01749 860 443 or by email: [email protected]
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THEATRE WITH DINNER For two nights only, Ditcheat Players presented “Theatre with Dinner” in the Jubilee Hall. It was what it said on the packet: exactly that! Two short plays
with dinner between. The two plays were from Peter Quilter's quartet of one act plays published under the title “Duets”, with just two actors in each. The two we saw were
“Secretarial Skills” and “The Bride-to-Be”. Very different from each other, the first set in an apartment off 10th Avenue in New York and the second in the upstairs of a house in Guildford.
The actors in both plays were local professionals Diana Croft (known in Ditcheat as Di Wyatt) and John Flanagan who has lived in Castle Cary for over
twenty years. And how professional they were, superb acting, delivery, timing and just plain presence. The plays were wonderful vehicles to show their abilities. In the first John
was the epitome of a spoiled American businessman pandered to by his most efficient secretary, who, we soon gathered, would love to share his fortune with him by marrying him despite his being gay. The accents were excellent
and both characters totally believable, the clever comedy accentuated by perfect timing of both phrase and movement. The second play had Di as the nerve-wracked third-time-lucky bride to- be, with John as her not-much-help
brother about to escort her to the ceremony. This, to my mind, was even more hilarious than the first and left the audience in helpless laughter at the end as Di, wet and bedraggled, and with a
revealingly torn dress, left for her wedding with head held high. So that was the “Theatre”, and would have stood perfectly well on its own. To complete the evening (and give Di and John a rest between plays!) there was
“Dinner”. All the tables had designated waiter or waitress, young DPs and friends, who filled our glasses from the bar at the beginning and proceeded to
serve a very good hot meal supplied by Simon from Truffles Brasserie. Certainly a good advertisement for that establishment! All in all it was a superb evening and those of us who were lucky enough to
get tickets had a real treat. Thank you, John and Diana for your hard work over the two nights; you must have been exhausted. Everyone really appreciated your talents.
And thank you Ditcheat Players team for all the organisation and the backstage stuff. The simple sets, the lighting and the sound worked really well.
A great night out! Well two actually. Chrys Henning
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HARRIET SANDYS Invites you and your friends to
“Treasures from the Orient” Unusual Christmas Gifts from around the world
The Barn at the Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PB
Sat 6th and Sun 7th December 2-5pm
Sat 13th and Sun 14th December 2-5pm
Sat 20th and Sun 21st December 2-5pm Also by appointment
www.sandysorientalcarpets.co.uk Tel 01749 890 582
At their meeting on Tuesday 9th October, 2.30 pm in Baltonsborough Church Room, St.Dunstan's and District Mother's Union welcomed as their guest speaker Revd. Preb. Stephen Lynas, MBE. He was made a Deacon thirty six
years ago, having attended Trinity Hall Cambridge. For seven years he was Religious Programmes Producer for radio and T.V. at Bristol and five years Religious and Community Editor for West country television. Revd. Stephen
was the Churches Millennium Officer for four years working at Church House Westminster. For services to the Millennium Celebrations he was awarded the M.B.E.
Since 2006 he has been Senior Chaplain and Adviser in our Diocese. He leads the office team for the two Bishops and supports their ministry in so many ways. Revd. Stephen led the prayers at the meeting, including a space of ten
minutes silence for reflection. Members were sponsored during this time by family and friends, over £200 was raised for the Ebola disaster. Everyone was most interested to hear of Revd. Stephen's work with the
Bishops within Bath and Wells; following which a variety of questions were asked. Mrs. Done thanked Revd. Stephen for his much appreciated visit. The November meeting is arranged for Thursday 6th November, when Mrs.
Eileen Heath will give an update on Mother's Union World Wide affairs. All members and friends very welcome.
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Ditcheat Church Rota
Rota for Flowers Brasses Nov 2nd & 9th S Atkins J Ward
Nov 16th & 23rd L Adams “ Nov 30th & Dec 7th No flowers B & I Rounsevell Dec. 14th & 21st “ “
Dec. 25th & 28th tba Cleaning Rota
November Sat 1st / 8th Vee Lees Sat 15th / 22nd Jan & Ann Robson
Church Room Pat Dando December Sat 6th / 13th Pat & Jim Dando Sat 20th / 27th Jessica Leach
Church Room Pat Dando Jessica Leach (860205) for flowers and brasses. Vee Lees (860542) for
Church Cleaning. Pat Dando (860448) for Church Room Cleaning.
We will be holding our last monthly meeting for 2014
on Friday 28th November 2014 at Caryford Hall when we are glad to announce that our speaker will be Brian Lush, a well known local man, who will be telling us about life in the Caryford area during
the Second World War. He has, I understand, a huge amount of information about this time and many photographs to share with us which inevitably will bring back memories for those whose families were living here at that time as
well as informing more recent residents of an eventful period in the towns history.
Meeting commences at 2-30pm
WASTE NOT, WANT NOT If you have anything you are thinking of throwing out, that someone else may get use out of, then advertise it on this page. No money changes hands. If after a while no one has been in contact, then you throw it out.
Drop sided wooden cot, 4ft x 2ft, plus mattress. Not quite as good as new,
but ideal for visiting children. Vee 860542
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The Wild Life Group Update Can we help? If you have ever wanted a wildflower meadow maybe we can help with some
on site advice to get you started. They are a great visual addition to the garden, both in colour and texture and bring a lot of interest in the form of insects and birds.
What we have done this month: September has been beautiful weather and we were blessed with having some hang over of the good days for our work in October.
Ditcheat wild flower area was raked off and we planted out some home raised Knapweed and Field Scabious.
Tips: My experience so far has led me to sow when the seed is ripe in July onwards, then pot into a 5" pot (pardon the lack of metric) with three seedlings per pot. This makes a good strong group of plants to hold their own
when planted out in the Autumn. We took the grass away from the top of the planting hole and then planted in the cleared soil, it will give the plants a
head start with their establishment. Don't forget to water in well and use slug deterrent
.
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Ditcheat school wildlife area saw us blitz the pond. David and Hilary
were amazing in tackling what was a rather heavy and muddy job.
We did see a resident frog hop off in a disgruntled manner, it must have been happier when we left.
Tips: If you have a pond, October is a good time to lift and divide the plants.
Don't forget to leave the debris and mud by the side of the pond for a while to let the creatures creep back into the water. Swallow project:
Some of my House Martins had three broods and left much later than usual on the 24th September. Bob and I saw some others flying over Shepton
Mallet last Friday 10th October. How's that for a late dash South? Meeting up:
12th Nov. 2.0pm - meeting at New House Farm, West Pennard
Winter bird watch walk Should you like to join us just use the contact information below.
Contact information: Bridget Wadey: email: [email protected] or phone: 01749 860240
You can follow our activities by: joining our emailing list; contact Bridget above by phone or email
through the FTN news (www.fossetrinitynews.co.uk), there is usually a monthly update on the Wildlife group
or www.ditcheatchurch.co.uk, this site publishes our meetings and activities as they are organised. The Wildlife Group has its own
tag Watch out for notices on the parish notice boards
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Who's Who ?
FOSSE TRINITY BENEFICE
Interim Priest in Charge Canon Graham Hendy 677003 Reader Jean Halford 860422 Fosse Trinity Advisory Committee Jean Heal 860452
Fosse Trinity News Editor Jo Curtis 860898 Fosse Trinity News Advertising Marcus Wyburn-Mason 860067 Fosse Trinity News Distribution Lesley Dunn 860746
Prayer Pyramid Co-ordinator { Anthony Sutcliffe Eleanor Yeoman
860541 860337
Mothers' Union Yvonne Stokes 01458 851480
Safeguarding Person Bridget Wadey 860240 Children's Society Jo Curtis 860898
ALHAMPTON Chapel Warden / Church Watch John Severne 860362
Assistant Chapel Warden Jo Curtis 860898 Church Council Secretary Louisa Oborne 860252 Neighbourhood Watch Ian Telfer 860414
FTN Correspondent Louisa Oborne 860252 EAST PENNARD
Bells - Tower Captain Mervyn Buckley 01458 440180
Churchwarden { Jean Heal Susie Dearden
860452 860266
Church Council Secretary Carol Stuart 860587 Church Room Hire Audrey Dyson 860317 Parish Council Chairman Adrian Pearse 890216
Royal British Legion Secretary Jon Dickens 01458 850241 United Charities Chairman Adrian Pearse 890216 Verger Ray Higgins 860339
PYLLE
Bells - Tower Captain Joe King 890357
Churchwarden { Hilary Tudsbery-Turner Teresa Rossiter
830538 831419
Church Council Secretary Stephen Tudsbery-Turner 830538 Ladies Working Party (Chairman) Joanna Miln 838757 FTN Correspondent Joanna Miln 838757
Village Hall hire and keys Joanna Miln 838757
Email contacts are on page 58
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DITCHEAT
Art Group Liz & Stewart Gould 860755 Badminton Club Secretary James Bairstow 860355 Bees – Swarms Stewart Gould 860755
Bells - Tower Captain Roger Yeoman 860304 Bells - Correspondence/Bookings Ben Look 860257 The Other Book Club Gail Dyke 860189
Church Council Secretary Louisa Oborne 860252 Church Room Hire Pat Dando 860448
Churchwarden { Anthony Sutcliffe
Eleanor Yeoman
860541
860337 Community Car Service (ADEPPTS) Joyce Marsh 860493 Conservative Party Contact Elizabeth Crossley 860245
Country Dancing Deidre Pezaro 860594 Cricket Club Nick Mann 812304
Ditcheat Big Screen / Moviola Peter Volk 860081 Ditcheat School Amanda Seager 860329 Friends of Ditcheat School (FODS) Faye Wareham 860329
Ditcheat Players Chairperson Gaye Volk 860081 Ditcheat Players Costume Hire Gaye Volk 860081 Fosseway Garden Club Barbara Cary 860438
Jubilee Hall Chairman Peter Volk 860081 Jubilee Hall Hire Anne Robson 860444 Keep Fit Diana Cook 860224
Neighbourhood Watch Jim Dando 860448 Parent & Toddler Group Rachel Dixon 860329 Parish Council Chairman Charles Evans 860336
Ramblers Linda Wyburn-Mason 860067 Rendezvous Diana Cook 860224 Scout Group Chairman Jean Halford 860422
Scout Group – Beavers & Cubs Elli Halford 860422 Sewing Group Molly Yeoman 860525
Short Mat Bowls Martin Edgar 860780 Skittles Shirley Derby 07939198030 Village Lunch Jessica Leach 860205
Wildlife Group Bridget Wadey 860240 GENERAL
Community Police Lucy Bagnowiec 101 Guy Dury 101
Please help us keep this information up-to-date. Email [email protected] with any changes.
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Index of Advertisers
Printed by Pavenar Printing, Castle Cary
Thora Hird told this story on a BBC1 programme ‘Praise Be’ about a little girl saying her prayers: “God bless Mummy, God bless Daddy, God
bless my brother Tommy, God bless Granny – and God look after yourself, ‘cos if anything happens to you, we’ve had it!”
Who's Who ? Email addresses
Fosse Trinity News Editor [email protected] Fosse Trinity News Advertising [email protected] Fosse Trinity News Distribution [email protected]
Ditcheat Parish Council ditcheatparishcouncil.org.uk Community Police [email protected]
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Accounts, Hayley Spencer 29 House Maintenance, Repointing 29
Alhampton Inn 2 Manor House Inn Back Art Gallery, Studio 13 29 Medical, Holistic Therapy 21 B & B, Pennard House 32 Medical, Homeopathy, Fionna Roberts 39 Buildings, Timber Frame, W Latta 10 Medical, Osteopath, Trevenen Pascoe 45
Clothing, Rose & Lyons 21 Motoring, N E Motors 16 Computing, Stable Computers 10 Music Tuition, Piano, Alison Bower 16 Counsellor, Charlotte Clements 15 Odd Jobs, Alistair Gillard 2
Curtains, covers etc, Helen Bushrod 2 Oven cleaning, Ovencor 15 Decorating, Ray Ackerman 45 Plasterer, Neil Piercy 32 Electricain, Ian Lester 10 Proper Pet Co. 46 Fencing 39 Removals & Storage, Armishaws 40
Food, Gould's Cheddar 59 Roofing, Mark Curtis 52 Food, Hembridge Organics 10 Salvation Army 16 Food, Jon Thorner's 59 Solicitors, Bartlett, Gooding & Weelen 32 Funerals, Connock 45 Solicitor, J Derbyshire, Purely Probate 21
Funerals, Trotman Funeral Directors 16 Stone Walling, Yenstone 22 Furniture, Joinery & Kitchen, Mark White 39 Storage & Removals, Armishaws 40 Garage Doors, SDS 45 Taxi, Tony Chinnock 39
Gardening, Jeremy Dodd 32 Transport, ADEPPTS 2 Harriet Sandys 51 Travellers Rest, Stone 2 Heating Services, Warm Welcome 29 Tree Surgeon, M Parsons 16 Hire Shed 15 Tree Surgeon, Noel Radford 59
Holiday Cottage, Long Batch Cottage 15 Wedding & Events Venue 32 Home Maintenance, Mike Doyle 29 Wills, Catherine Lewin 10
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Seasoned
Logs
Charcoal
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