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10radio
returns as a full-time station from 21st January 2008
Wivelisombe-based 10radio has served the
10 parishes on two previous ocasions for a month at a time. Now
we have a permanent licence and will be broadcasting on 105.3fm
every day of the week. Initially there will be live broadcasts
each morning between 7am and 10am and all over the weekends with
recorded material and music at other times.
As before we are looking for volunteers
from Ashbrittle to take part - to present live or recorded shows
or to work behind the scenes on the reception desk or in other
capacities.
Get in touch by looking at our website:
http://www.10radio.org
Local Business
Opportunity
Ever thought of running your own business?
Here is an exciting opening right on your door step
The tenancy of the Stawley Village Shop and Post Office is becoming
available on 1st February 2008
The shop has quickly become the hub of the vibrant local community
and now offers you the chance to build on its business success
This shop needs people who have:
• A creative, flexible approach to meet consumer demand
• an ability to capitalise on the community support
• a desire to expand the business
Are you interested?
The Stawley Community Association is inviting anyone wanting to
know more, or who are interested in taking the lease of the shop
and or post Office, to contact our Secretary: Cherie Rancourt-Rous
by 12th October 2007 - Deadline revised - please
call for details.
Phone Cherie Rancourt-Rous on 01823 672397 or ask at the shop
Parish News
September 07 - Thought for the
Month
All around the nation there are children preparing to go to school
for the very first time. For some it will be their first experience
as they start Junior School, for others a change as they move
to a new school. For each a new challenge, not least in the new
set of rules that they will be confronted by. Which side of the
corridor to walk along, how to address their teachers, what colour
shoes may be worn and where they are allowed and not allowed to
play. Looking back at school life we may reflect that some of
the rules seemed to make very good sense and helped the well-being
of the whole community. Other rules seemed to be for the benefit
of a few, generally the staff.
School isn’t the only place where we find rules that govern
the way we live life, or the only place where rules can annoy.
Some shopping centres ban hoodies, some roads have those cameras
that blink at you as you travel past and result in a surprise
letter imposing a fine. Is it right to be more annoyed about a
gang of teenagers in a shopping centre wearing their choice of
clothing or a motorist speeding at 35mph in a residential area?
Our reaction to different rules may say something about us as
individuals rather than the merits of the rules. There’s
a bit of a contentious issue going on at the moment in church
about the ‘No Smoking’ signs on our church doors.
Jewish law
Now wind back 2000 years to 1st century Palestine, and we discover
that, like our society, there are rules which people are called
to live by, some which were well regarded, others less so. In
the Jewish society there were two parallel streams of law. One
was the written law or teaching, which is found in the first five
books of the Bible. The second set of rules was an oral law that
was developed by religious leaders to interpret the written law,
in order to give guidance to people in the conduct of their daily
living.
In a story from Mark’s gospel the leaders confront Jesus
over the habit that he and his disciples had of not washing their
hands before meals. They were breaking the unwritten law of the
leaders. This might seem a relatively minor offence to us, but
in the culture of their day it was highly significant. The establishment
viewed cleanliness as crucial. They believed that only those who
belonged to the covenant of God’s chosen were holy, and
to maintain their holiness they had to avoid contact with non-covenant
people – so called pagans that would be people like us.
In first-century Palestine there were many rules which ordered
their lives including observing the Sabbath, (Sunday observance).
What foods they could or couldn’t eat and their cleanliness
rituals. Challenge some of these and you undermine what it is
to be a Jew. Uphold them and you keep people holy in a world of
many gods and many practices.
Impossible laws to keep
In fact some of the written cleanliness laws were impossible to
keep. You couldn’t avoid brushing up against others in the
market or picking up something that may have become tainted by
another person’s touch. To deal with these issues the spoken
law developed a ritual rite involving washing hands, food and
utensils to ensure cleanliness to keep the people holy. This is
what upset the leaders so much, Jesus and his disciples actions
were not so much about their hygiene as their disregard for the
law.
Jesus though was more concerned about what was in the hearts of
people and their attitude to their neighbour. He was more concerned
about how they treated each other than any ritual washing. So
here is the challenge for us, Jesus isn’t so concerned about
the minutiae of a particular law but about the way faith is observed
in the heart. In our honest moments most of us struggle to apply
what we would understand as Christian to other parts of our life.
It has been said that there is a thin line between being the prodigal
son and the resentful elder brother.
The whole Bible offers guidance for our lives, and we can use
it to help us make decisions about our way of living. From the
book of Deuteronomy through the psalms to the gospels and the
letters of the New Testament, we can find teaching on how to live
our lives. There are many other guides equally as good. We need
to make choices as people living in a community. We may place
far greater emphasis on the teaching and life of Jesus, whose
life story is inspiring, and who summed up the important aspects
of the law as loving God and our neighbour as ourselves. We may
use other means. But whatever means we use the rules are here
to stay and we will have people watching us to make sure we uphold
them. Rules, rules, rules. We meet them at school, out shopping,
on the road and throughout life. How we keep them the choice is
ours.
With all my love and prayers
Ian
The New Bell at Stawley Church
The work to add a new bell and re-tune the existing bells has
now been completed. The bell-hanger removed two of the bells to
Taylor’s of Loughborough in June where they were tuned to
match the additional bell. The bells were then hung in Stawley
Church during July. After test ringing they received formal approval
from the Diocesan Adviser, which allowed us to draw down the monies
from the various sources of grant aid.
We are delighted with the sound of our new peal. Of course, we
would not have been able to start the project without the great
support we have had from so many local people.
The Bishop of Bath and Wells has accepted an invitation to come
and Bless the New Bell at our Harvest Festival on 21st October.
Please come and show your support and enjoy a good and pleasant
evening of country songs, harvest hymns, and food. More details
in the next Parish magazine.
In the meantime, ringing practice will resume in early September,
if you would like to learn to ring we would be very pleased to
see you.
Graham Henson, Tower Captain, and the bell ringers. Tel: 672496
Calling All Singers!
Do You Know Any Songs For Harvest?
What about celebrating harvest this year with some traditional
country songs as well as the well-loved and oft repeated harvest
thanksgiving hymns?
The Festival Choir sings three or four times a year for special
services. All singers, of whatever ability, age or creed are welcome
to join us. You do not have to be able to read music. Neither
do you have to sing on your own unless you want to! We usually
have three practices and then sing for a service in one of the
churches and the motto of the choir is to have fun.
If you would like to join in or if you have any suggestions of
songs we would enjoy please call me or John Owen (on 672470) and
we will let you know when we have arranged some rehearsals.
Julia Swan, Tel 672102
Parish News Update
We are pleased to announce that Maurice Stanbury has offered his
services to join us in editing this magazine, which we have gratefully
accepted.
We would ask contributors who send in material by email (and we
like it this way if possible) to use font size 11 in Times New
Roman, justified and in ‘Word’ format. This does not
necessarily apply to adverts, but we like to be able to alter
the size and shape of them to fit on the page.
Please do not use colour as it does not appear as distinct when
transferred to the black and white magazine.
Our new email address is:
ashbrittlenews@btinternet.com
although the old one will still find us.
Editors
Neighbourhood Watch
You may be aware locally and through the national news that there
is a nationwide spate of thefts of drain covers. In this police
district these have predominantly happened in our villages. In
the Sedgemoor area there have been approximately 70 stolen at
a replacement cost of several thousand pounds. The County Highways
department is still calculating losses for the Taunton Deane and
West Somerset areas. These losses not only have an impact financially
but also cause some risk to the public whilst drains are temporarily
left uncovered. The police have had reports of vehicles seen in
suspicious circumstances and your assistance is sought in looking
out for them. Details are not complete but are as follows: White
Transit van, partial index P663R?? Please report any sightings
of such vehicles direct to the police using the general police
number 0845-456-7000 quoting Neighbourhood Watch message G565.
Report all incidents
On a separate matter please report all criminal instances to the
police. A situation arose this week where an arrested person was
admitting offences that the police had no record of. It is possible
that the arrested person was either confused or trying to mislead
officers - however it is more likely that the offences, considered
minor by the losers, have not been reported and therefore cannot
be linked to the offender. If you have information about any crime,
phone the police on 0845 456 7000 or you can call anonymously
to CRIMESTOPPERS 0800 555 111 or you can call your local neighbourhood
watch link, numbers at the back of the magazine.
Caro Ayre
Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator.
Country Matters
Summer Sun
Great is the Sun, and wide he goes
Through empty heaven without repose
And in the blue and glowing days
More thick than rain he shows his rays
Robert Louis Stevenson
Mid July. Suddenly the noisy chattering of the
whirling swifts had stopped. The 'cowboys' of the summer skies
have left for southern destinations. The swallows and house martins
are here for another month. The house martins under my eaves are
on their second clutch. Chris Curtis thinks her swallows are on
their third clutch.
With really bad weather the butterflies have been disappointing,
although in the second week of August I've seen lots of meadow
browns and speckled woods.
Quite a lot of people in the parish have had disappointing runner
and french bean crops. I think this is because of the really wet
weather the bees have not been able to pollinate the flowers.
August is always a time to see meteor showers in the night sky
and if it is a clear night it is magic to see them in the late
evenings.
Surprisingly the field mushrooms are not about, or at least I've
not found any, or puff balls. However on the Blackdowns I have
had good pickings of yellow chanterelles. The whole fruit is coloured
yolk yellow and its cap is one to seven centimetres wide, and
funnel shaped. It is a very common edible mushroom, and around
here is generally found in old hedge banks under beech tress.
I sauté them in butter, and they are good on toast or with
bacon.
The robins have been silent for a few weeks while they moult,
but now they are beginning to sing once more. One of the sounds
most heard at the moment is the 'mewing' of buzzards which will,
hopefully, have a go at the seemingly ever-rising rabbit population.
Sally Merrett 672121
Countrywomen’s Group
It was a very warm afternoon that we enjoyed at Sevenoaks in August.
We exchanged our news and views on current events etc., a relaxing
slot in our busy lives. Our thanks go to Joy our hostess, and
the enjoyable tea. I was the lucky winner of our raffle. We meet
again at Hellings Cottage on 13th September.
Pam Crow
Stawley Church Pig Roast
This was held by kind permission of Andrew and Liz in the garden
of the Globe Inn, Appley. Although numbers were down due to the
weather, it was a very enjoyable evening. As usual the food was
excellent.
Many thanks go to Andrew and Liz and their staff for all their
help and support and to Tim Potter and daughter Katie for carving
and serving the food. Also thanks to all those who gave raffle
prizes or helped in any other way. And finally to all those who
supported the event; with your help the church benefited by £357.
Graham Henson
Hall Marks
No, not the gold and silver ones, but those awarded by the Community
Councils for Somerset to village halls to re-assure funders, private
donors, users and the community that the hall is being properly
run. Hall Mark One covers admin. and management (and is obligatory
for County/Borough grants); Hall Mark Two covers Health and Safety,
licensing and cleanliness and Hall Mark Three covers contact with
the community and forward development. Bathealton Village Hall
Committee is glad to report that it has retained its Hall Mark
One award for a further three years; now for Hall Mark Two!
G.B.
Bathealton Parish Walk
This will not be a "Very long Walk", more a socializing
stroll,
Followed by Tea and Cakes
in the Village Hall.
Dogs are welcome on the Walk,
Please ensure they all have Leads, as there could be
"Livestock in the Fields".
We meet at 2pm. outside the Village Hall.
Ready to start our Walk at 2.15pm.
All Welcome
Parish News Donations
Thanks to the following for their recent donations:
Rev & Mrs J.McDowall,
Di Willis,
Mr & Mrs E.J.Lee,
Mr J.Champion,
Mr & Mrs G.Berthon,
Ms.Davidson,
Mr & Mrs A.Thomas.
Please make cheques payable to Ashbrittle Parish Magazine and
send them to the Treasurer, Jon Dawes of Ivy Cottage, Ashbrittle
Waste Paper
Now that T.D.B.C. collects paper from the doorstep, Somerset County
Council will not give a grant for paper recycling and also the
need for a skip at The Globe is less. Therefore when the present
skip is full it will not be replaced.
Ashbrittle, with Greenham P.C.C. would like to thank Liz and Andrew
for helping church finances in the past by housing the skip at
The Globe and for helping to pay for its collection and delivery.
It was also a useful facility for the community. Many thanks.
A thank-you also goes to Michael and Jane Rowse for helping to
keep it tidy
Island Hospice, Harare.
Knowing of the unhappy situation in Zimbabwe, Ashbrittle with
Greenham P.C.C. wished to offer some help and support and it seemed
appropriate to offer this help to the area of Harare which was
originally known as Ashbrittle. This area was called Ashbrittle
because it was settled originally by a family from Ashbrittle
and is now included in the neighbourhood of Avondale. On a recent
visit to Avondale, Jenny and Robert Boutwood visited the Island
Hospice and were impressed by the care shown to the patients,
hence the P.C.C. have decided to support it.
At a Wellington Team service held at Ashbrittle in June the collection
amounted to £280 to which Ashbrittle P.C.C. added a further
£220 and sent the £500 to the Island Hospice Trust.
This will help to provide medicines for the Hospice.
We hope to be able to give more support in the future.
A DATE FOR YOUR DIARIES SATURDAY,
10th NOVEMBER ZIMBABWEAN COFFEE MORNING
In aid of Island Hospice, Harare, Zimbabwe.
To be held in Ashbrittle Village Hall from 10.30 a.m. to 12.30,
entry fee £2 to include coffee/tea and home made biscuits.
There will be stalls selling genuine Zimbabwean, and other African,
arts and crafts, and home-made cakes and produce with an emphasis
on Christmas food for freezing ahead. There will also be a raffle.
Please do come and support this very deserving charity and tell
your friends about it.
Nearer the time we would be very grateful for any offers of home-made
cakes, etc. and raffle prizes. For more details or any enquiries,
please contact Jenny or Robert Boutwood, Tel: 672765.
Nine Day Feast of the Arts
We’re all set to celebrate nine days of arts, crafts, music,
theatre, film and community events at the highly enjoyable, bigger
than ever 10 Parishes Festival in September.
Over 100 artists, craftspeople and performers are taking part
in the Festival from September 8 – 16, and visitors are
expected to top the 9,000 previous figures, at this major biennial
event in Wiveliscombe and the nine surrounding parishes.
There will be open studios and galleries, workshops and demonstrations
in everything from painting and ceramics to textiles, sculpture
and photography.
Numerous community events include a bustling, day long Street
Market on Saturday September 15 in Wiveliscombe when the town
centre will close to traffic, with locally produced food and craft
stalls, live music and children’s entertainment.
Other community events include a Festival of Silent Cinema complete
with live music, Civic Trust Heritage Open Days, creative writing
workshops, ceilidhs, barbecues and breakfasts, musical tea parties,
theatre, music and more.
A special Festival guide is available from libraries, tourist
information centres and shops. It has also been designed to keep
as a long-term artists’ directory.
Please visit www.10parishesfestival.org.uk for full details or
contact the organisers at info@10parishesfestival.org.uk or on
01984 624564
Ashbrittle rainfall for July in inches
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
4.57 2.16 2.63 1.66 5.49
Cedric Hooper
Stawley Village Shop
and Post Office
Please note that, with immediate effect, the Post Office hours
have been adjusted as follows:
Mornings
Mon to Fri 09.00 to 12.15
Afternoons
M, T, Th, F 14.30 to 16.15
Wed Closed
We have taken the decision not to open the Post Office on a Saturday
as the usage has been very low – less than 2 customers each
week, other than those handing in already stamped mail for collection.
As Royal Mail is still collecting at midday on a Saturday we will
endeavor to keep enough stamps etc. available for purchase to
cover most needs.
Shop – Opening Times
Morning Afternoon
Open Close Open Close
Monday 07.00 12.30 14.30 17.00
Tuesday 07.00 12.30 14.30 17.00
Wednesday 07.00 12.30 Closed
Thursday 07.00 12.30 14.30 17.00
Friday 07.00 12.30 14.30 19.00
Saturday 07.00 12.00 Closed
Sunday 08.00 10.00 Closed
Post Office – Opening Times
Morning Afternoon
Open Close Open Close
Monday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Tuesday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Wednesday 09.00 12.15 Closed
Thursday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Friday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Saturday Closed
Sunday ClosedLast Collection by Royal Mail:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 16.00
Wednesday, Saturday 12.00
Tel. no. 01823 674 361
Auntie Returns!
Stawley Wood's Shippon Gallery will be open for the 10 Parishes
Exhibition between 8th and 16th September, between 12 noon and
6pm daily. Cream teas will be available. To complement the 10
parishes, the Luard Trio will perform on Saturday 8th, and there
will be a charity auction of artists' work on Wednesday 12th in
aid of Stawley Church and the Rotarians and the Taunton Thespians
will perform a play within a play for your entertainment on Saturday
15th. All these three evening events, which start at 6pm, include
food and wine so please book early so that I can ensure we have
enough of both. Tickets from James Luard on 01823 672300
Ashbrittle 50 Club
The August Draw prize-winners are:-
1st Prize £7.50 Geoffrey Heard
2nd Prize £6.00 Rob & Suzette
3rd Prize £4.50 Roger Buswell
Thank you for your support to help Ashbrittle (with Greenham)
Church Funds.
Peggy Wotton (Hon.Sec.to P.C.C.)
Duck Race
Duck Race and Car Boot sale at The Stables, Wellisford on Sunday
16th September, starting at 2.00pm. Car boot sellers £5
per car from 1.00pm, visitors £1 per car from 2.00pm. Cream
teas, barbeque and stalls. Ducks can be purchased at £1
each from Wellington Sports or the Paper Shop, or on the gate.
£50 first prize. This will be a fun day for all the family.
Proceeds are in aid of Langford Budville Village Hall Fund.
Rural Community Initiative – News Letter
What next?
As reported last month the RC I committee is in the process of
making plans for the future. Ideas are being collected which will
be discussed at the next meeting early in September.
Lunch Club
Sadly, still no picnic this month although crochet, boulle and
bowls were at the ready if the weather decided to co-operate.
But instead we were treated to a fascinating, impromptu talk by
David Neville. This left us all reflecting on how chance and fate
had played a role in our lives – David certainly had some
amazing examples to share with us. So thanks to David for giving
us such a thought provoking pre lunch session and once again we
had a superb lunch to follow.
Gardening and Family History sessions
Thanks to Somerset Active Living we were able to hold two very
informative sessions run by tutors from Taunton Learning and Leisure.
The gardening afternoon was run by Gordon Maskey who covered an
amazing range of topics, interspersed with valuable tips. Then
Gordon invited questions which turned into a ‘gardener’s
question time’ and we all went away with some answers to
our gardening problems. Finally we went on a walk around a garden
in Ashbrittle and again Gordon shared his knowledge with us.
After the lunch club this month John Lowday ran a session on Family
History which wetted our appetites to find out more about our
own families. After some very helpful and clear guidelines of
how to start our searches John showed us how to access the wealth
of information available through the internet.
If any one is interested in finding out more about these or any
other courses please contact Taunton Learning and Leisure or Liz
Taylor 01823 673000
Visit to Highgrove
Thanks to John Ridgley, who is now working at Highgrove, we have
been given the chance to go on a visit to the gardens at very
short notice. 25 local gardening enthusiasts will be going on
Thursday 6th September 2007 so watch this space for our report
next month.
** * * * Business Opportunity * * * *
The tenancy of the Stawley Village shop and Post Office is becoming
available
on 1st February 2008.
The Stawley Community Association is inviting any person or persons
interested in running or helping to run the shop and/or Post Office
to, as a first step, register with our secretary
Elizabeth Taylor
by
Friday 14th September 2007
Contact details
01823 673000
Elizabethtaylor@compuserve.com
Just Boots
For details of walks in July, August and September please contact
the following numbers:
01984 623745
01984 623565
Carol
A Walk in the Sunshine
At the end of July several members and their dogs met at Kilve.
The walk began with a stroll along the coastal path towards the
Royal Navy Range Look Out. On reaching it we paused to eat our
sandwiches and enjoy the views across Bridgwater Bay to the Welsh
coast. We then headed inland to complete our circular walk back
to the Priory and a welcome pot of tea and cakes. At last a walk
in the sunshine.!!
AH
A walk from Selworthy
It is difficult to imagine a more perfect walk than the one we
did on 8th August, a warm sunny day with just the hint of a breeze.
We parked opposite the little white church at Selworthy and set
off through the woods, climbing steadily all the time. A slight
mis-read of the map brought us out of the trees onto a narrow
gorse-lined path to an ideal picnic spot, a steep grassy slope
near the top of Bossington Hill dotted with clumps of deep purple
heather and a breathtaking view of Porlock Bay, the Bristol Channel
and Wales in the distance. Refreshed, we returned to the right
path and continued east along the top of the hill and back down
into the woods, ending up at the tearoom in Selworthy and a divine
cream tea (choice of three homemade jams!)
M.B.
And to Horner Wood
On a wet August morning we set off for a planned walk to Horner
Wood - five keen walkers determined to defy the English summer
and three dogs just happy to be out. Setting off from Horner Car
Park through the woods following a Nature Trail passed the Horner
Water much to the dogs delight. We followed a well-made path which
was quite firm under foot, crossing the river many times by some
very good well-maintained bridges. We were making for Cloutsham
where we intended to have our picnic lunch. The walk was punctuated
with very heavy showers but we were able to use the beautiful
trees for shelter and enjoy rays of sunshine when the waterproofs
were removed. On arriving at Cloutsham the heavens decided to
open with a very heavy prolonged shower so we stood eating our
lunch while watching the rain. Feeling refreshed we set off back
down the valley - halfway back we took a right hand turn called
Windsor Walk which took us up a steep incline to the top of the
valley where we were rewarded with stunning views over Bossington
- well worth the effort of the climb. We then followed this path
back to the Horner Car Park where we were looking forward to getting
a cream tea. Unfortunately the welcome cuppa had to be taken under
cover looking out onto a very pretty tea garden. This is a lovely
walk whatever the weather with lots of very interesting trees
and fauna.
Brenda Rayment
Return to Everest
John Doble is very kindly coming to Bathealton Village Hall on
Friday 19 October (7.30pm) to talk about his recent assault on
Mount Everest
Entrance £3.50. Refreshments on sale. Raffle
Wild West meets Bollywood
Saturday 17 November Come and join us for a relaxed evening of
chat, music and food. Guys, don your check shirts and jeans; girls,
put on your most glamorous and over the top (or vice versa!).
Bangers and beans or a spicy curry to tempt you and music from
Bill Radford Bathealton Village Hall, 7pm.Booking essential: tickets
£5 from Patricia (01984 623 300)
ASHBRITTLE ANNUAL PARISH WALK
Sunday 2nd September
Assemble 2.15pm at the Village Hall where we plan to double up
in cars and drive to start our walk from Lower Westcott Farm (parking
by kind permission of Ann & Brian Heard) - if preferred you
can drive directly to the starting point.
The walks at the northern edge of our Parish are wonderful with
the most stunning views back towards the village. Distance approx
31⁄2 miles with shorter return option.
Children – a Nature Treasure Hunt with Prizes
Dogs welcome – bring leads in case of livestock.
To be followed by FREE Cream Tea in the Village Hall.
Fun for all the family!
Update On Ashbrittle Parish Walk
At the moment of writing it seems that the Foot and Mouth scare
may thankfully be safely over and we should therefore be able
to walk as planned, subject to checking with the landowners whose
fields we would cross.
However, please be aware that this event may possibly be amended
or even cancelled, in which case notices will be put on Ahsbrittle
Village Notice Board and other prominent places to this effect.
A Useful Service
Are there many times when you have returned from town and realised
that
there is something you have forgotten to get?
Have you ever wished that you had a shop close by?
Fed up with lugging items back from the shops and wish that things
could be delivered direct to your door?
Do you have access to the internet?
Now if your answer is YES to any of the above then have you thought
of buying online?
Then log onto www.gadgetworlduk.com and stop worrying about buying.
All items purchased are brand new and guaranteed. The best bit
is direct delivery to you the purchaser.
Delivery days/times are determined by Royal Mail/Parcel Force,
but normally take no more than 3-5 days to deliver, but invariably
goods are delivered sooner.
F.O.S.S. MARQUEE FOR HIRE
Fire retardant, strong construction
with removable sides.
10m. x 4m. (approx. 33ft. x 14ft.)
WEEKEND HIRE, ONLY £50
PLUS £100 REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT.
Friday lunchtime until Monday lunchtime.
Please telephone Maire Blackley
On 01398 361448 to arrange
collection or for more details.
Full instructions supplied.
Stawley Youth Group in danger of disbanding Urgent help
needed
Having had such a good injection of interest from the local young
people and also great support from Somerset Youth service the
group is now once again under threat.
As reported last month the group were well rewarded for their
hard work and commitment by winning a substantial grant. But without
a leader to take charge this September all could be wasted. So
once again we are asking for any parents, interested young people
or any one else who would like to get involved to come forward
and help the group avoid closure.
If you wish to join or want more information about how you can
be of help or the role of leader please contact Jane Embleton
01823 672689 or Liz Taylor 01823 673000.
Simply Simple
I will be putting recipes in the Parish News for as long as there
is an interest – the first next month.
I believe cooking should be a pleasure, not a marathon of hours
sweating in the kitchen. All my recipes are easy, with easily
found ingredients and little preparation. Most of the puddings
can be prepared well in advance.
The recipes have been collected over the years, used, adapted
and used again.
I am very happy to share them with you.
David Neville
ASHBRITTLE ARTS BOOK GROUP NEXT MEETING
Friday September 21st 2007
Engine House
Ashbrittle
01823 672203
************
The Small House at Allington
Anthony Trollope
A chance to meet
Margaret Markwicke
Author of
Trollope and Women
Rural Community Initiative
LUNCH CLUB EVERYONE WELCOME YOUNG AND OLD ALIKE
Thursday 28th September
and
every last Thursday of the month
11.30 am start
Ashbrittle Village Hall.
T’ai Chi introductory session
followed by a two course, home –cooked lunch (vegetarian
option available) for only
£5.00 per head.
Book early to avoid disappointment – leave your name in
Stawley Village Shop by the prior Monday
HELP WITH TRANSPORT AVAILABLE IF REQUIRED
STAWLEY UNDER FIVES PRE-SCHOOL
at
Appley Pavilion, Appley, Wellington
Friendly rural playgroup for pre-school children aged from 21⁄2
years.
NEW OPENING TIMES
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays
9.30am to 3.00pm
For further details
Contact:- Rachel March
on 01823 672873
WIVELISCOMBE AREA COMMUNITY OFFICE
The Square, Wiveliscombe
Open Monday to Saturday 10am to1pm
Drop in or call 01984 624777
Your one-stop-shop for community services
Including CAB & PENSIONS and
YOUR DIAL-A-RIDE COMMUNITY BUS SERVICE
‘WIVEY LINK’ 01984 624666
(OR OFFICE ON -01984 624777)
Picks up in 25 Parishes
Simple phone registration
Advance booking for all Musgrove Park Hospital trips for the less
able
Concessionary fares for over sixties
Special group outings arranged
Wheel-chair friendly
Booking line open between 9am and 11am
Monday to Friday, holidays excepted
Do you wish
• you had a computer ?
• access to the internet ?
• somewhere quiet to work ?
• the chance for all the family
to use new technology ?
We have the answer!!
a highly competitive package
that gives you….
up to 4 hours a week use of a computer,
scanner and broadband
in the conveniently located Community Room
(at Stawley Shop)
open access during shop hours or by arrangement
(payable in advance)
for more details or to book contact
Liz Taylor on 01823 673000
Or ask in the shop.
HAVING A PARTY?
Available to hire for
Children’s Parties
Ashbrittle Village Hall,
Newly decorated is
Family Celebrations
And Special Events
PA and sound system available, crockery, tables etc.
Hall Hire Prices start from
£15.00
For full details and availability
Tel Rose McKinney
on 01823 672055
Bus to Taunton.
Twice a week, WoW!
Service 9A, Wiveliscombe – Milverton – Wellington
– Taunton
Tuesdays and Fridays (Except Public Holidays)
Wiveliscombe (Square) 0935 Taunton 1310
Milverton (Square) 0945 Bradford 1320
Bathealton (Church) 0955 Wellington 1330
Kittisford Barton 1000 Wellesley Pk. 1335
Stawley 1005 Sampford 1340
Ashbrittle Village Hall 1010 Greenham 1345
Appley 1015 Appley 1350
Greenham 1020 Ashbrittle 1355
Sampford Arundel Church 1030 Stawley 1400
Wellesley Park (Hoyles Rd.) 1040 Kittisford 1405
Wellington (High St.) 1045 Bathealton 1410
Bradford-on-Tone (White Horse) 1050 Milverton 1420
Taunton (Castle Way) 1100 Wiveliscombe 1430
Wellington’s wonderful food extravaganza
Wellington is all set for an exciting two day food extravaganza
next month (September) as producers, retailers, cooks and cafes
join forces to attract thousands of visitors to the town.
The Wellington Food Fair and Festival, on Saturday September 8
and Sunday 9, is the second event being held under the Wellington
Food Town umbrella, after an estimated 5,000 people attended the
hugely successful launch last December.
Now bigger and even more exciting it will showcase an anticipated
60 food producers from around the town and beyond, including many
award-winners, while local retailers and food outlets lay on all
kinds of special events and activities.
Saturday will see stalls and marquees, a special food court with
hog roast and BBQ all with locally produced food, cookery demonstrations,
sausage trail, quizzes, apple juicing and children’s entertainment,
plus live music and an evening beer and curry night.
Sunday will see fun events and activities in and around the town,
including tractor rides, a brewery tour, cream teas, tastings
and open days.
A new web site gives details of the events and people involved
at www.wellingtonfoodtown.co.uk
August 07 - Thought
for the Month
How should we live today? Well our libraries and book shelves
are well stocked with many publications which will give us the
answers to that question. Such titles as ‘The Art of Happiness
– a handbook for living’, ‘How to cope with
stress’ ‘Change your life in seven days’ are
just a few of them which are freely available. Today there seems
to be a new intensity of questioning and searching for answers,
especially answers that can deliver in days or even minutes.
The question ‘how should we live?’ has rung down over
the centuries.
In the Bible the answer to the question is not just one of rules
and regulations which, if closely adhered to, will lead to a good
life. The answer is not just one of techniques, which if practised
day by day, will provide a blessing. The answer is based on something
much simpler, that is our relationship to God and to each other.
If we live in the right relationship to God and to one another,
then our lives will be blessed. But this relationship doesn’t
come without responsibility and it does involve obedience to God’s
commandments, in order to grow into God’s way of life. This
way of life is lived in response to God’s love and care
for the people. The love and care which has been shown by being
very close to us as we travel through the highs and lows of our
lives, not that we are always aware of it. This isn’t just
a matter of opening a book and finding the answer for each situation.
It involves taking time and waiting upon God in order to grow
into the knowledge of God’s ways.
The New Testament Gospel writer St Luke
answers this question by telling us a story that is best remembered
of any of Jesus’ parables, ‘The Good Samaritan’.
The phrase ‘good Samaritan’ is used today for people
who’ve gone out of their way to be helpful to someone in
need. The organisation ‘the Samaritans’ takes this
to the cutting edge with its emphasis on helping those who are
in despair and on the verge of suicide. At the beginning of the
story the young man asks the classic question of Jesus, What must
I do to inherit eternal life? How should I live today? Jesus quotes
a text that would have been familiar to his listeners, about loving
God and loving one’s neighbour. Then it’s as if the
young man is thinking ‘Well I know all this, but what does
it actually mean?’ He goes on questioning Jesus. And in
response Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan.
There’s a double challenge in the story. At one level it
is a simple encouragement to help those in need. But at another
level it offers a surprise, for it is the stranger, the outsider,
the Samaritan who is giving help, rather than those who might
have been expected to offer a helping hand. It’s a parable
both about being helpful and about being open to think of God’s
purposes in new and different ways.
One of the dilemmas of the past three hundred
years in the west has been the emphasis on human autonomy. We
have thought that we can find fulfilment in isolation. Do your
own thing, working from home, the internet, have your own space,
hiding yourself away behind locked gates. All these things may
seem rather enjoyable at the time but the downside is a sense
of purposelessness and of alienation. In other areas we see growing
levels of stress, depression, drug and alcohol addiction and breakdown
of family and community life. Living in God’s way is about
sharing in God’s purpose and meaning for all creation. It
means sharing in the rich heritage of those who have received
God’s commands over the centuries. It involves sharing with
those communities today who are still wrestling with interpreting
God’s commands for the 21st century.
The relationship with God is one that God makes possible in Jesus
Christ, in his teachings, in his death and his resurrection. But,
like any relationship, it takes time to develop.
In an era when people desire easy results and instant action,
the Christian life offers a counter-cultural response. The Christian
life is about the long haul. It’s not just about doing one
good deed today and that’s it for this year. It’s
about building the relationship with God, which leads to a deep-rooted
orientation of life in God’s way, the way of love in the
widest sense of the word. The young man who came to Jesus could
be ourselves asking the question who couldn’t easily see
what he should do. When Jesus responded to him, he went on asking
questions. And at the end, we are left not knowing whether he
actually did what Jesus suggested.
Interpreting God’s way for today involves wrestling with
the questions of what I should do with my money, where I should
shop, how I can protect the climate, how I balance family and
work responsibilities, what are my responsibilities in the community
where I live. My experience tells me it needs time spent waiting
on God in prayer and in the reading of scripture. The way we should
live today means making a positive decision in the direction of
the person in need. When society pressurizes me to live for myself,
Jesus continues to challenge me to live for others.
And it is in this way of living, in God’s way of living,
that we will find eternal life, life in all its fullness, both
here and now and in the life to come.
With all my love and prayers Ian
Neighbourhood Watch July 2007
You may be aware of an initiative being run from Wellington Police
Station aimed at improving crime reduction for rural properties.
Officers from the station will come to your property, mark and
record details of items and also take digital photographs. Posters
will also be provided indicating that the property has been marked.
A copy of the information will remain with you and a copy put
onto the Police National Computer where the information will be
stored. This will reduce the likelihood of offences and, should
the worst happen will assist in the identification of items if
they are recovered. Targeted items include trailers, quad bikes,
tools, garden machinery etc.
For further information or to book an appointment contact PCSO
Sharon Cridlin at Wellington Police Station. Telephone 0845-456-7000
or Email sharon.cridlin@avonandsomerset.police.uk
As there has been numerous crimes of this nature in the surrounding
area in recent months, I strongly recommend that you take advantage
of this scheme.
Caro Ayre
Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator.
ASHBRITTLE, with GREENHAM, P.C.C.
& ASHBRITTLE VILLAGE HALL SUMMER FETE
& OMIC SPORTS, SUNDAY 15TH JULY, 2.00 P.M. THE GREEN, ASHBRITTLE.
Stalls, Bargains, Cakes, Bottles,
Side-shows, Bric-a-Brac, Books,
Teas, Raffles, etc., etc. A Fun Afternoon.
COUNTRY MATTERS
Plant me a garden to heal the body,
Betony, yarrow and daisies to mend,
Sage for the blood and comfrey for bones,
Foxglove and hyssop the sick to tend.
Elizabethan herb song
May 20. The lanes are full of goldfinches which, when seen at
close quarters seem to be too exotic to be British birds. There
are a few bullfinches about and usually a pair can be seen in
Greenham. I saw my first flycatcher. This was the spotted flycatcher,
a fairly late arrival. They nest here and leave for warmer climes
in September. Although they are fairly insignificant to look at,
it is their spectacular aerobatics while trying to catch insects
which are unmistakable.
The mistle thrushes have been seen above Tracebridge and I had
one exceedingly fat chick in my garden demanding food. These are
by far the largest of the 'spotted' thrushes as well as being
Europe's biggest true songbird. The name comes from the fact that
they eat mistletoe berries, but of course they are omnivorous.
Early June. Jane Embleton's son saw a kite over Ashbrittle. I
suppose it must have found it way from Exmoor. Since their reintroduction
they have been spreading, and are a common site on the Chilterns.
These are Spanish red kites, magnificent birds with a striking
deeply forked chestnut tails, which soar overhead. In the Middle
Ages kites were common scavengers in London as well as being seen
over rubbish dumps, rather as gulls are today.
Apparently the risk of having a car door mirror smashed in the
lanes has increased. Sheri Cory was driving along when a low-flying
buzzard came straight at her car. Only at the last minute is swerved,
catching its wing on the mirror, carrying on over the hedge. I
am not too sure if the insurance company will believe this!
I have been told, but have not checked it out, that on the verges
of the motorway at Junction 26 there are lot of bee orchids. The
slipstream of passing traffic scatters their seeds pretty far.
Look out for black caterpillars on stinging nettles inside a sort
of spider's web. These will become red admiral or peacock butterflies.
Sally Merrett
672121
STAWLEY PARISH ANNUAL MEETING
Chairman’s Annual Report: Charles Hollick outlined the year’s
work by the Council, including:- Planning: (12 applications and
5 amendments dealt with, one of which was controversially passed
by the Chairman and not the planning committee, in spite of seven
objections). Footpaths: Somerset Rights of Way have graded Stawley
paths as 1 and 2, as most are used regularly. The Council also
took on the responsibility of cutting the hedge at Greenham bridge
to improve visibility of traffic over the bridge. Further cutting
back is still needed. The Boundaries Commission listened to the
parish’s objections to joining with Milverton and Bradford-on-Tone
as there were no community links with them; therefore Stawley
and other parishes remain with Wiveliscombe.
Roads Review: Colin Howe outlined what had been achieved with
‘Highways’ during the year, which, apart from clearing
drains, filling in pot-holes, etc., included the long awaited
renewal of drains from the Pavilion to Bishops Barton. For the
coming year drainage through Grenham village to Bishops Hill and
from the Pavilion to Appley Cross are also scheduled; and the
Council still hope to get ‘Highways’ to change their
mind about the priorities of vehicles over Greenham bridge.
Presentation of Accounts: These have already been passed by the
Council and were adopted as a correct record of the Council’s
finances.
Reports from Parish Organisations:
Stawley Under Fives Group: They have had a very successful year
in spite of seven children moving on into school and leaving the
group with just six children. However by January more children
were coming in. Sessions were increased to 3 days a week again,
and there are now 15 children on the register. Activities have
been many and varied, including a Nativity play at Christmas.
Neighbourhood Watch: A quiet year for this parish with ‘feed
back’ from the police concerning other parishes, but stressing
the need for vigilance. Monthly reports appear in the Parish News
and Caro Ayre (co-ordinator) underlined the need for continued
support of the Parish News to keep everyone informed. Otherwise
Neighbourhood Watch would fall apart.
Stawley School and Governors: John Hannon was delighted to report
an excellent ‘Ofsted Report’, recently carried out,
giving excellent and outstanding results in most areas of the
inspection. Much work is being done to improve the premises, such
as filling in the open verandah to become a library area and main
entrance, including a car parking area at the rear of the school
to alleviate parking problems in conjunction with the shop. Pupils
have the advantage of after school clubs and many and varied activities
with other schools, especially with sport.
Friends of Stawley School (F.O.S.S.): This consists mainly of
parents and is a dedicated group who are constantly organising
fund-raising events for the school. Their many and varied successful
activities have raised £2500 during the year which has been
used for the benefit of the children, such as books, toys, travel
expenses for visits such as to the Kilve Activity Centre, the
school garden and the Christmas Party.
The Youth Group continues to be a great success with the younger
element, although KateWeeks, who has been leader for the last
5 years, recently resigned. The Council expressed their appreciation
for all she had done to keep the group running successfully, and
hoped that an early replacement could soon be found soon.
The Stawley Community Association (S.C.A.), whose main function
for the future will be to manage the finances and leasing of the
converted school building, to the P.O./Shop and Community room
which has been up and running since February 2006. The P.O./Shop
is well supported and appreciated by the community, and signs
are that it will continue.
The Stawley Rural Community Initiative (R.C.I.) is the committee
responsible for putting projects forward now that the premises
have been developed. The long awaited Lunch Club has been launched
and is attracting more support. Cycling Proficiency is also being
started and contact has been made with ‘Adult Learning and
Leisure’ to run various courses. The R.C.I. will continue
to try and improve the lives of people living in our local area.
The Cricket Club has had a busy and successful season with the
first XI winning the league and cup, yet again. The Club has two
senior sides, a ladies team and two junior sides. Andrew Hill
has been elected Club Captain to replace Rob Williams, who stood
down after 10 years of captaincy. Special mention was made of
Luke Williams for his selection to Somerset Under 12’s by
Jon Dawes, the Chairman.
The Appley Pavilion Committee: Neil Hammond reported a second
successful year of full operation with the pavilion being well
used by many of the local groups. The main ones were the Cricket
Club, the Under Fives Group and the Youth Group. The Committee,
of course, have held numerous fund-raising functions to help with
their finances to repay a loan taken up last year, and have also
received grants which will be used to improve the premises, such
as installing paving on all sides of the building, and applying
a wood preservative to the cladding. He also expressed thanks
to his hard-working committee and was sure the premises would
continue to be used as much, or more, than now.
Peggy Wotton
Clerk
STAWLEY PARISH COUNCIL
Report from the June Council Meeting:-
Roads: Repairs and drainage work from Greenham Barton to Bishops
Hill area seem very imminent, with instruction markings on the
road in preparation for the work. Other ongoing requests for road
problems are ‘in the pipe-line’.
Greenham Business Park signing request. ‘Highways’
have responded that Greenham is adequately signed from the A38,
and a sign outside the premises is the responsibility of the owners.
They are willing to provide and erect one for them – at
their expense. Colin Howe is to take this up with the owners.
Shooting at Pondground Quarry: Taunton Deane Shooting Association
have withdrawn their application for permission to use the practice
range in conjunction with the police, but will continue with their
present arrangement of using the range.
Tree Planting: The Council wishes to plant a tree in Greenham,
possibly a flowering cherry, to commemorate Bill Wotton’s
long service as a councillor. This will be dealt with in the autumn.
Code of Conduct: David Greig (Parish Liaison Officer) attended
the meeting to clarify certain points of the revised code, prior
to the Council adopting it in its revised form. The Clerk is to
advise the Standards Board of the Council’s decision.
Planning: a) Applications received for agricultural building at
Beardley Farm, and amendments for two of the barn conversions
at Beardley. All were supported by the Council.
b) Permission granted for alterations at Highmead, Appley.
c) Permission refused for barn conversion at Potters Cottage,
Appley.
Planning Training: David Greig offered to try and arrange another
seminar, and will aim to produce an ‘aid memoir’.
Keep Somerset Local and Somerset Unitary Authority: Both schemes
were discussed with David Greig and Caroline Smeaton (County Councillor)
who was also present. The Council agreed on a majority vote (4-1)
to support the Keep Somerset Local scheme.
The Appley Pavilion Committee has requested a representative from
the Council to serve on their committee, instead of Penny Stanbury.
Colin Howe was nominated by the Council and will take on this
responsibility subject to meetings fitting in with his schedule
of other meetings.
Date of the next meeting will be Tuesday July 17th.
Peggy Wotton
Clerk
COUNTRYWOMEN’S GROUP
We were lucky with the weather when we had our June outing to
Staple Plain. We eventually reached there after hold ups with
large heavy lorries going both ways down a narrow lane, and waiting
for potholes to be filled near Stogumber!
The rhododendrons were really beautiful – in full bloom
(spoilt only by the noise of the strimmer being deployed in the
area!).
We drove to the Stables Tea Rooms, Triscombe, for a delicious
cream tea. We returned home via the Farm Shop near Bishop’s
Lydeard station. We meet again at Hellings Close on July 5th.
Pam Crow
WANTED HORSE RIDER
Are you an adult (no children or teenages sorry) who would be
willing to commit to riding at least twice a week, 1 evening and
1 day at the weekend. You need to be experienced, weight less
than 11 stone and happy to hack around the lanes. Horses are unfit,
very well behaved both in company and alone, brilliant in traffic
and to travel. No costs. Ring Ruby on 07789963364.
Ruby Davidson
Surridge Farm, Hagley
Ashbrittle rainfall for May in inches
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
3.045 1.440 2.020 4.900 5.780
Cedric Hooper
St. BARTHOLOMEW’S, BATHEALTON
GIFT DAY 10th June
The response to our Gift Day letter for funds to help maintain
St. Bartholomew’s Church was truly over-whelming. To date
the figure has reached £2026.50. The figure was already
well up on any previous year before being boosted even further
by one particularly generous donation.
Much was gift-aided or Charity Aid Fund tax efficient and so thanks
to the Inland Revenue a further £275 will be reclaimed.
The programme to keep the fabric in good order can now be progressed
and the possibility of improving the heating brought nearer! Thank
you all so much.
Ronald Greenway and Graham Hall
Churchwardens
ASHBRITTLE PARISH WALK
Sunday 2nd September 2007
Please make a note in your diary to keep the above date free for
our annual walk through this beautiful countryside –
children and dogs especially welcome. This will be followed by
a FREE (but well deserved) CREAM TEA in the Village Hal. Further
details next month
Stawley Garden Party/Fete at Court
Place on 16th June
Despite the unappealing forecast (which resulted in a spring clean
for Court place outbuildings!) the weather was kind and the turnout
was good. The teas and strawberries were delicious, the stalls
attractive and the vicar's apron fetching. A total of £800.
00 was raised for Church Funds and a thoroughly good afternoon
was enjoyed by all. Many thanks to Graham and Nancy Henson for
hosting this delightful event once again
J.L.
St. Margaret’s Hospice Events
Tea at Three All June
The Band and Bugles of the Rifles, Concert Tues. 24th July, 5.30
p.m. Vivary Park
St. Margaret’s Summer Fair Thurs. 26th July 11.00 –
4.30 Forde Abbey, Chard.
Get a Tea at 3 pack by contacting 0845 345 9671
PARISH NEWS DONATIONS
Thanks to the following for their recent donations:
Mr.& Mrs.N.Williams
The Ridgely Family
Mr.& Mrs.F.Colebrook
Mr.& Mrs.B.Bateman
Please make cheques payable to Ashbrittle Parish Magazine and
send them to the Treasurer, Jon Dawes of Ivy Cottage, Ashbrittle
KITTISFORD BARN DANCE
Another popular barn dance was held at Kittisford Barton on June
2nd which was enjoyed by people of all ages. Our thanks once again
to Christine and Alan and Tamsin for all the hard work you put
in hosting and organizing the event. You did us proud! And thank
all you kind people who came and supported us. We raised a much-needed
£685 for church funds.
H.T.
Ashbrittle CC 100 Club Winners
April
£30 Peter Venner
£10 Sarah Dawes
£5 Andrew Norman
May
£30 Andy Bolt
£10 Mrs Mary Snell
£5 Tim Collins
June
£30 Sue Ridgeway
£10 Ron Ayre
£5 Jerry Bradbury
Evening Garden Party At Stawley
Mill Saturday 4th August At 7pm
A Delicious 2 course meal. With cheese and wine In a lovely garden
By the river Tone
Tickets £12.00 in aid of Stawley Church roof fund
Penny Hare
Tel: 01823 672183
Please let me know by the 2nd of August
St.Michael and All Angels Church,
Stawley
Are holding a GRAND PIG ROAST (WITH SIDE SALAD AND ROLLS)
IN THE GARDENS OF THE GLOBE INN APPLEY
Friday 20th July 2007-06-25 at 7.30pm
Admission by ticket:
Adults £7.00
Children £4.50 (under 10)
A Raffle will also be held
Tickets are available from:
Eileen Harding 01823 672731
Graham Henson 01823 672496
At the bar of the Globe
A FINE MUSICAL EVENING
We were very fortunate to have three professional singers donating
their services in aid of Stawley Church on 9th June when
The Luard Trio entertained a select audience with their usual
excellence, combining professional musical dexterity with charm
and glamour to captivate us all totally. The "Glyndebourne
of the West" at Stawley Wood lived up to all expectations
and even the weather was kind. They return on 8th September to
entertain us with "September Soiree".
J.l.
Stawley Village Shop and Post Office
Please note that, with immediate effect, the Post Office hours
have been adjusted as follows:
Mornings
Mon to Fri 09.00 to 12.15
Afternoons
M, T, Th, F 14.30 to 16.15
Wed Closed
We have taken the decision not to open the Post Office on a Saturday
as the usage has been very low – less than 2 customers each
week, other than those handing in already stamped mail for collection.
As Royal Mail is still collecting at midday on a Saturday we will
endeavor to keep enough stamps etc. available for purchase to
cover most needs.
Shop – Opening Times
Morning Afternoon
Open Close Open Close
Monday 07.00 12.30 14.30 17.00
Tuesday 07.00 12.30 14.30 17.00
Wednesday 07.00 12.30 Closed
Thursday 07.00 12.30 14.30 17.00
Friday 07.00 12.30 14.30 19.00
Saturday 07.00 12.00 Closed
Sunday 08.00 10.00 Closed
Post Office – Opening Times
Morning Afternoon
Open Close Open Close
Monday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Tuesday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Wednesday 09.00 12.15 Closed
Thursday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Friday 09.00 12.15 14.30 16.15
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Last Collection by Royal Mail:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 16.00
Wednesday, Saturday 12.00
Tel. no. 01823 674 361
FUNDING AVAILABLE
Are you a community group in Taunton Deane that is looking for
some funding towards a transport project that will benefit your
community? If so please contact Sean Lanigan asap on splanigan@somerset.gov.uk
or call 01823 662618
BATHEALTON WIVES GROUP
A reunion evening has been arranged at The Globe Inn Appley on
Friday 6th July at 7.30pm.All past members are welcome to come
join in.. For more details phone Lynda Murry 01823 672371 or Janet
Sharland 01984623319
ASHBRITTLE 50 CLUB
The JuneDraw prize-winners are:-
1st Prize £7.50 Joyce Norman No.22
2nd Prize £6.00 Bob & Sue Ridgeway 46
3rd Prize £4.50 Alan & Esther Marshall 65
Thank you for your support to help Ashbrittle (with Greenham)
Church Funds.
Peggy Wotton (Hon.Sec.to P.C.C.)
BLESS ‘EM ALL
Though a fervent heathen, I am happy to report on a local “religious
first” of a very special character. On a sun-drenched Sunday
afternoon in late May, at the invitation of my slight, but magnetic
wife Mary, around 20 assorted animals foregathered in the fields
of “Ravenspring”, accompanied or observed by some
30 people. The occasion was a Blessing of Animals and what in
my eyes made it extra noteworthy was its ecumenical basis. Father
Bob Rainbow from Mary’s RC Church of St. Joseph in Wellington
and Rev. Keith Gale from All Saints in Holcombe Rogus in smiling
and happy harmony – as it happened, it was the first time
they met – and their ability to spread smile and laughter
around them was truly impressive.
Guitar-accompanied hymns started the proceedings, followed by
brief readings and prayers. Together the clergy then blessed each
and every animal after having been given its name and history
by its keeper (average age 10) so that the blessing could be made
personal. There were three horses besides Mary’s two –
one of them drawing a splendid carriage – a few guinea pigs/hamsters,
a cat and a dozen dogs (unbarking!). St. Francis of Assissi is
the Patron Saint of Animals and little medals embossed with the
picture of the saint were given to each animal owner.
As a condition for what I consider my considerable help I insisted
that the Atheist goldfish in my ponds be left out and the clergy
with a chuckle agreed. And lo and behold, it was I who first spoke
to Keith Gale of “next year”. He still looked agreeable!
Knud Ravnkilde
Don't worry about avoiding temptation .
. as you grow older, it will avoid you.
-- W inston Churchill
Ten Parishes Eco Youth Group
We are delighted to announce that we have been given a wonderfully
generous grant from Awards for All! This will enable us to run
a series of workshops and visits focussing on green issues, eco-friendly
living and sustainable development. There will be arts and crafts
days, using green woodworking techniques, willow sculptures and
much more! There will be walks and talks for all the family. We
will soon announce a community walk and picnic when you will be
invited to share your ideas and help us shape the programme. We
are so pleased that we have been given this opportunity and hope
you will join with us in creating a range of exciting activities.
Please contact Jan on 672880 or Avril on 672131 for more details.
LUNCH CLUB
EVERYONE WELCOME
YOUNG AND OLD ALIKE
26th July
11.30 am start
Ashbrittle Village Hall.
Talk , discussion, meeting people
followed by a two course, home –cooked lunch (vegetarian
option available) for only
£5.00 per head.
Book early to avoid disappointment – leave your name in
Stawley Village Shop or call Jane Embleton 01823 672689
HELP WITH TRANSPORT AVAILABLE IF REQUIRED
Ten Parishes Eco Youth Group
We are delighted to announce that we have been given a wonderfully
generous grant from Awards for All! This will enable us to run
a series of workshops and visits focussing on green issues, eco-friendly
living and sustainable development. There will be arts and crafts
days, using green woodworking techniques, willow sculptures and
much more! There will be walks and talks for all the family. We
will soon announce a community walk and picnic when you will be
invited to share your ideas and help us shape the programme. We
are so pleased that we have been given this opportunity and hope
you will join with us in creating a range of exciting activities.
Please contact Jan on 672880 or Avril on 672131 for more details.
Greenham Hall
Greenham
Wellington
Somerset
TA 21 OJJ
01823 672603
www.greenhamhall.co.uk
greenhamhall@btopenworld.com
Bed and Breakfast in peaceful, relaxing surroundings.
Short of space? Let us look after your friends and family when
they come to visit.
Double Room £ 60.00 Single room £45.00 Family room
from £75.00
Price includes full English Breakfast and a chance to explore
our garden.
For more information check our website or call for a brochure.
Open all year.
Langford Budville Pre-School,
The Old School House, Langford Budville, Nr. Wellington.
A small, rural Pre-School offering a friendly, stimulating and
secure environment for children between the ages of 2 and 4 years
old.
Open (during term times) for sessions:
Monday, Tuesday and Friday 9am-12pm and 12pm-2pm and Wednesday
9am-12pm.
Come along and meet us at a free ‘taster session’
- taking place every Tuesday during the Summer term (April –
July); please telephone and book in advance.
For further details and all enquiries please contact our Pre-School
Leader, Cathy Verrall, on 01823-400588.
Registered with Early Years and Development Childcare Partnership
and Ofsted Inspected.
Registered Charity No: 1031503
WANTED - YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S WORK
COORDINATOR
Due to the resignation of Alison Vercoe, the Tone Deanery Group
of Churches (located in Wellington, Wiveliscombe, Bishop's Lydeard,
Cotford St Luke and surrounding areas) is looking to appoint an
experienced/qualified person who will continue to develop youth
and children’s work alongside the clergy and laity of our
deanery.
The work will involve initiating, resourcing and supporting the
work with children and young people alongside the clergy and congregations
in this group of 32 churches,
18 hours per week. Salary: £10,240 - will include some evening
work.
Principal duties and responsibilities will include:-
• to further develop SNAZ (the weekly North Tone Youth Group
for the 11+ age group on a Sunday) and its leadership team, including
recruiting new volunteers and enabling them to access appropriate
training
• to further develop a positive Christian presence in Kingsmead
School
• to facilitate the development of children and youth work
in the Cotford St Luke area
• to develop “Smile” (the monthly, under 11’s
club in Wellington.) and coordinate a team of volunteers to help
run it.
• to co-ordinate the planning, organisation and delivery
of an annual youth residential weekend
• to support, help resource, communicate about and pray
for (but not to run), parish based children and youth groups and
activities across the deanery including the annual, inter-parish
deanery children’s event
• to communicate and promote the work amongst children and
young people across the deanery (this could be done electronically)
and, when there are opportunities, to attend events and training.
• to network with churches of other denominations in the
area for joint initiatives for children and young people.
• to assist in co-coordinating and running a young people’s
confirmation group for the deanery when requested.
• to work with the strategy group to develop an ongoing
plan/strategy for youth and children’s work across the deanery
You will have the support of the deanery Children and Young People’s
Strategy Group and the Children and Young Person’s team
of the diocese at Wells and there will be opportunities to access
training.
For further details and an application form, contact Anna Maunder,
North Tone Ministry Group Administrator, St Mary’s Church
Centre, Church Street, Bishop’s Lydeard, Taunton. TA4 3AT.
Tel: 01823 430179. annamaunder@btinternet.com .Closing date for
applications: 7th July. Interviews: 21st July.
Maybe it's true that life begins at fifty ... but everythi ng
else starts to wear out, fall out, or spread out. -- Phyllis Diller
Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year.
-- Victor BorgeRural Community Initiative Rural Community Initiative
Rural Community Initiative
Taster Sessions
Taunton Deane Adult Learning and Leisure
Ashbrittle Village Hall
Thursday 28th July
2-4 pm (after the Lunch Club)
Family History – run by John Lowday
the skills you need and how to get best use from the internet
Saturday 21st July
2-4 pm
Gardening Skills – run by Gordon Maskey
Pruning, propagation, veg. and salad growing
Gardening organically
Question and answer session
£5.20 per session
You need to book ahead
Contact Elizabeth Taylor 01823 673000
or leave your name at the village shop
HELP WITH TRANSPORT AVAILABLE IF REQUIRED
Rural Community Initiative Rural Community Initiative Rural Community
Initiative
.
Rural Community Initiative Rural Community Initiative Rural Community
Initiative
How safe are your children?
Cycling proficiency training may help
ROSPA “RIGHTTRACK” training is to be run for
Over 9 years old children
The programme is for FOUR WEEKS
STARTING
TUESDAY 26th June until 17th July
STAWLEY SCHOOL
3.30 – 6.30PM
£5.00 each child
To be run by volunteers
who will have been trained by ROSPA
Further details contact
Lesley Thorne at Stawley School
ASHBRITTLE, with GREENHAM, P.C.C.
MIDSUMMER GARDEN GAZE
In spite of the weather the Midsummer Garden Gaze was a great
success. The Vicar and P.C.C. would like to thank all those who
opened their gardens and worked so hard amid the rainstorms to
get their gardens ready to view. Horse lovers also had a treat
with a look around Court Place Stables. It is much appreciated
and we hope you also managed to enjoy the afternoon.
Thank-you also to Rosemary, Kath and Deliah for providing super
cream teas and refreshments.
90 people bought tickets to view the gardens and the churches
of Ashbrittle and Greenham benefited by £318. It was also
another lovely community event which was celebrated with a barbecue
in the evening. It takes more than a few drops of rain to dampen
the spirits of our gardeners!
Thank-you to Jon Dawes for organising the B.B.Q. and doing the
cooking.
Lots of complimentary remarks were made about the gardens and
many of the 90 are looking forward to another visit. Thank-you
for your support.
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