NT KN E OL R L B

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Tel: 01278 760225 Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat & Sun 8am-12.30pm

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LANZA HAIRCARE EST. 1994 HAIR BY DESIGN For the ultimate hairstyling experience we will make every client’s visit unique, and work with you to create your own individual style. Sam is now offering RACOON HAIR EXTENSIONS, everything from simply refreshing your current style to developing a whole new image. Lisa, Rachael and Sam thank all their existing clients for their continuous support. Hair by Design will be closed on Mondays A WARM WELCOME AWAITS ALL. Gift vouchers are available for all treatments The Pines, Brent Street, Brent Knoll Call us now on 01278 760 506 Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 3

The Parish of Three Saints St Christopher, St Michael, Brent Knoll St Mary, East Brent

Services for November 2015 Date Service Time Church 1st November Holy Communion - BCP 8.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham All Saints’ Day All-sorts-Worship 11.00am St. Michael’s Brent Knoll 4 before Advent Lights of Love 3.00pm St. Christopher’s Lympsham 8th November Holy Communion - BCP 9.00am St. Mary’s East Brent Remembrance Sunday Acts of Remembrance 10.45am Brent Knoll War Memorial Service of Remembrance St. Michael’s Brent Knoll 15th November Holy Communion - BCP 8.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham 2 before Advent Holy Communion 10.00am St. Michael’s Brent Knoll 22nd November Holy Communion - BCP 8.00am St. Mary’s East Brent Christ the King Holy Communion 10.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham Evening Prayer – Said 6.30pm St. Michael’s Brent Knoll 29th November Holy Communion 10.00am St. Mary’s East Brent Advent Sunday Carols for Advent 5.30pm St. Christopher’s Lympsham Every Tuesday Holy Communion 2.30pm St. Mary’s East Brent Every Wednesday Holy Communion 10.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham St Michael’s Sidesmen Rota 1st November 11.00am Margaret & Michael Smith 8th November 10.45am The British Legion 15th November 10.00am John Harper & Sally Wingate 22nd November 6.30pm Pat Doble St Michael’s Church Register Holy Matrimony - Jeremy Graham Terry Wilcox & Laura Knightley 4

METHODIST CHURCH (www.brentknollmethodistchurch.com) Minister Revd. Steve Bennett We shared our first Link service of the church calendar year in October. Our friends from East Brent and joined us for an excellent time of worship led by Rev Steve Bennett, after which we all shared refreshments. Our next shared service will be on the 15th November when we will enjoy Brean Methodist Church’s hospitality. Well, we must all be aware that Christmas is on its way. If the shops are anything to go by, Christmas seems to have been on its way as soon as the children went back to school after the Summer holidays! So a date for your festive diaries - we will be holding our Christmas coffee morning on Saturday 28th November at 10.30am. As you know, we love getting together with our village and church friends, and refreshments will include mince pies (of course!) so please do join us! God bless. Rosemary Krull Preachers for November at 10.30am 1st November : Rev Steve Bennett (Holy Communion) 8th November : Mr Brian Dallimore (Joint Remembrance Sunday at St Michaels) 15th November : Link Service with Brean (Note: No service at Brent Knoll) 22nd November : Mr Len Horlock 29th November : Mrs Heather Gale Toddlers Just a reminder that we return after the half-term break on Tuesday 3rd November. On the following Tuesday, the toddlers will have the opportunity to dress up as one of their favourite superheroes: there will be Pudsey Bear stickers and balloons for everyone and we will be making our annual donation to the Children in Need Appeal. During November, we will also start to look at the Christmas story and learn some carols in readiness for our Christmas Party on 8th December! Jane St Michael’s Christmas Fair, Saturday December 5th–10am-1pm We shall be repeating the formula for last year’s successful Christmas Fair. There will be commercial stalls and our own craft efforts will be on sale, together with good quality items that have been donated and would be suitable for Christmas presents. We shall also be providing refreshments and hope to have some musical entertainment in the form of carol singing. If you are at a loose end over the next couple of months and wish to spend time making small presents / Christmas decorations, your contributions would be most welcome. Similarly any small items you have that are “surplus to requirements” would be most welcome. Ged Keele will be coordinating the Fair activities, so please contact him if you wish to contribute. But above all, please come to the Church to enjoy the occasion. Ged Alzheimer and Dementia Carers Group Held at Brentcombe House, Church Road, East Brent, TA9 4HZ on the third Monday each month at 4pm. The aim of this group is to provide support and friendship for carers of anyone who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. Contact - Maggie Gardner 01278 760 661 or Carla Searle 01278 760 041. 5

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“A Special House for your Special Occasion” Woodlands is a scenic and intimate venue for weddings, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations or special occasions. Catering can be tailored to your budget. Cash bar available. We are also offering our popular Summer 7 Course Taster Menu Wednesday to Saturday at £49.00 per couple. Please see our website for details of the menu email: [email protected] www.woodlands-hotel.co.uk Phone 01278 760 232 to make your reservation

ROGER KEEN Carpentry & General Home Maintenance Kitchens & bathrooms fitted or re-fitted (complete or partial refit or repair) Doors trimmed and re-hung; shelves, cupboards &  wardrobes custom-made to fit awkward spaces. Estimates without obligation Basic pet obedience, Rally Public Liability Insurance; No VAT Call: Roger Keen - Tel. 01278 782909 obedience, Agility, Flyball, or 07795 415474 Heelwork to music and fun classes. Behavioural problems a speciality. Supplier of NaturesmenuTM raw meats. For further details phone: 01278 760 477 Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 7

Brent Knoll Parish Council Meeting Summary – October 7th 2015 Meeting Attendance: 7 Councillors, 1 Member of the public and the clerk. Minutes of the 2nd and 16th September 2015. The Minutes of the meetings held in September 2015 were approved as true and accurate reflections of those meetings. Declarations There were declarations made to avoid pre-determination at this meeting by Cllr Filmer. Key Matters agreed and resolutions approved 1. Concerns raised about the state of the reservoir perimeter and footpath (Bristol Water to be contacted again). 2. A damaged kerbstone reported outside of Inwood, Church Lane will be dealt with. 3. White Lining and repainting badly needed in Brent Street on the bend near Ivy clad Hall. 4. Crumbling footpath on the Knoll footpath will be reported to the National Trust. 5. Consultations needed on the exit visibility from Battleborough Lane and on Brent Corner. 6. Flood Mitigation group to meet on the 23rd October 2015. 7. Nuisance calls and plant theft were reported at the Parish Surgery and will be notified to Police. 8. The Parish Council will be meeting with the drainage board and County for further discussions on the recent matters for improvements to Crooked Lane. 9. CPR Training in the village to 17 registered people will commence on 8th October. 10. Filming of Brent Knoll Parish Council meetings experiment is continuing. 11. Recycling bins in the village seem unlikely to continue due to contract issues at SDC. 12. A quote has been received and approved for the painting of the A38 Milestone. Planning Responses 07/15/00021: Widening of existing access from Solar Farm on to Wick Road and the creation of a track road on land South east of Wick Farm Lympsham. The Parish Council supported this proposal on the grounds of improved movement of traffic resulting in a safer environment. 05/15/00017: Variation of a planning condition that was granted 05/14/00019 on land to the South of Wick Farm, Brean Road, Lympsham. No comments offered by the Parish Council. Finance Matters: The Parish Council resolved to approve the statutory payments list from October 2015 and dealt with and agreed payments, in line with published agenda. Full copy of the minutes available on the website and also available from the Clerk. Forthcoming meetings: Monthly Meeting 4th November, 7.30pm. (1st Wednesday). preceded by the Parish Surgery at 4pm to 5.30pm Provisional Planning Meeting 18th Nov. 7.30pm (3rd Wednesday) Public always welcome to these meetings. Owen J Cullwick, [email protected] Tel 07917 445 215 Christmas cards for the Children’s Hospice It’s that time again - we are selling Christmas Cards on behalf of Children's Hospice South West in memory of our grandson Luke. The cards are many and varied and we have calendars and diaries too all reasonably priced. We take them to various organisations including the Brent Knoll Bazaar and are always looking for new venues. The conception of the Children's Hospice South West organisation is 25 old so we hope to make it a bumper year - if you would like to see the cards, do please get in touch on 01278 760 774, and we would like to thank all our loyal customers. Janet and Ian Breed 8

LIGHTS OF LOVE a time of remembrance; a time of thanksgiving; a time of memories; and a time to celebrate the lives of loved ones who have died. This year we are holding our LIGHTS OF LOVE (our All Souls commemoration of the departed) on Sunday 1st November in St Christopher’s church, Lympsham at 3.00pm. We shall remember all those who have died within the last two or three years, and all the names in the records of St Christopher, St Mary and St Michael since the beginning of 2013 will be included, unless advised to the contrary. If you are able to join us for the ceremony, we will be very pleased to see you and we also invite you to join us afterwards for refreshments. If you are unable to come, you may wish to set aside a few moments of quiet at the time of the ceremony to share your prayers and memories with those present. Simon Lewis Priest-in-Charge Peter Dallosso You may know that Peter has been in Hospital recently. He thanks all those who sent kind messages and will respond personally when a little more able to do so. BAD Actors It is with great disappointment that there will be no BAD performance this year; but we will be back next year refreshed and full of new ideas ready to take Brent Knoll by storm with our talent to entertain and make you smile. Sarah Last Posting Dates for Christmas 2015 Second Class – Saturday 19th December First Class – Monday 21st December Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed – Wednesday 23rd December Operational BFPO – Friday 27th November Static BPFO – Friday 11th December International Friday 4th December Africa, Middle East Monday 7th December Asia, Cyprus, Far East (incl. Japan) Tuesday 8th December Caribbean, Central and South America Thursday 10th December Australia, Greece, New Zealand Monday 14th December Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland Tuesday 15th December Canada, Finland, Sweden, USA Wednesday 16th December Austria, Iceland, Ireland, Portugal, Spain Thursday 17th December France Friday 18th December Belgium, Denmark, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Switzerland Bereaved Friends Group This month the group will meet as follows Thursday 26th November at 2.30pm at Southcot, 87, Brent Street. For further details please phone Margaret Smith 01278 760 691 or Gwen Hatton 01934 750 416. Margaret Smith 9 Rebecca Southwell MBCha Mssch Itec Hons MGCP Chiropody & Holistic Therapies Reflexology and Chiropody' Home Visiting Service Tel: 01278 795 915 HPC Registered

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Holywell Nursing Home

Brent Street, Brent Knoll, Somerset, TA9 4BB Telephone: 01278 760 601 Fax: 01278 760 912 Email: [email protected]

Registered Provider and Matron: Sarah Joyce RMN RGN

At Holywell we believe that all who use our services should feel welcome, safe and in control. That their rights to have choice, independence, dignity, privacy and fulfillment are respected.

Holywell is registered and regulated by the Care Quality Commission and has been awarded the Quality Rating with Somerset Social Services.

We now have accommodation for 30 residents.

All rooms are ensuite and our recent upgrade includes a second lift, extra bathroom with ceiling hoist and a shower/wet room. The kitchen is now in the centre of the Nursing Home, by the dining room.

We can offer long term care, short term or respite care, from one night to however long is required, day care or visit for a meal or bath/shower. Drop in information service, we are here to help and support our local community.

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People coming to live here are encouraged to bring with them items to personalize their rooms.

We operate an open house policy, visitors are welcome at any time that the resident is happy to see them.

A brochure is available which includes our Philosophy of Care and Statement of Purpose.

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Holiday Accommodation Three bedroom apartment, sleeping six. Overlooking the harbour. In Porthmadog, Gwynedd, North Wales. Porthmadog has a rich maritime and railway history, being the terminus of both the Welsh Highland Railway and the Blaenau Ffestiniog Railway. An excellent base for touring the surrounding area. The famous Italianate village of Portmeirion, built by the architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, is just 2 miles away, whilst Criccieth and Harlech castles are within easy reach. As are Mt Snowdon, Caernarfon and Anglesey. The apartment has good views of the harbour and the Ffestiniog Railway terminus. The shops are less than a five minute walk and the nearest beach at Borth-y-Guest a 15 minute walk. Ample local walking in breath taking scenery. For more details please contact Jenny on 01278 760477 or 07748 781 593

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WHERE IN OUR VILLAGE Each month the BKN will have a small picture quiz – no prizes, but I hope you may enjoy guessing where the object shown is located within the Parish boundary. Last month’s object is the rather nice gate in front of West Croft Farm. This month features another item which most of us will have passed many times, but have you noticed it? I admit I have amended it by eliminating some details because otherwise it would be far too easy. So where is it? The answer and another object will be shown next month. JaPe Brent Knoll Royal British Legion Women’s Section – AGM The 2015 AGM of the Brent Knoll Royal British Legion Women’s Section will be held on Saturday 14th November at 3pm in the Jubilee Room, Parish Hall. All members are invited to attend. If you wish to nominate a member for the committee, please contact the Secretary for relevant forms. Mary Piper ROYAL BRITISH LEGION (Men’s Section) The next meeting of The Royal British Legion will be held on Tuesday 3rd November at the Red Cow Inn, 7.30pm for 7.45pm start. This meeting will be the A.G.M. All members are welcome to attend. Eddie Fuller Girls Just Wanna Have Fun! There are only two more meetings this year, and in November we are very lucky to have Brenda doing a Poetry workshop for us on the 19th November, 7.30pm in Woodlands, £5. In December we are doing Cocktails and Charades again, once again at Woodlands, £5 on 10th December. Caroline BRENT KNOLL BAZAAR FARMERS’ MARKET & PARISH CAFÉ SATURDAY 14th November at Brent Knoll Parish Hall - 10.00am to 12 noon Locally produced fresh Beef, Pork, Chicken, Goat’s milk, cheese and meat, Eggs, Cheese, Pickles and Preserves. Vegetable Stall, Speciality Bread, Westcroft Cider, Homemade Cakes and Savouries, Phoenix Cards, Handmade Cards, Silver and beaded jewellery, Children’s Games and Toys, Local Crafts, Dog Treats, Textiles, etc., CDs, DVDs, Books and Bric-a-Brac. Plus Raffle The Parish Café will be serving drinks & light snacks. Entrance FREE Good Quality, Clean items for BRIC-A-BRAC stall (No Electrical Goods, please) will be appreciated, (collection or delivery) or to Book a Table (£7 per table) Phone Eddie Fuller (01278 760 308) Proceeds to Brent Knoll Parish Hall 13 CHELSEA FARM CENTRE LTD HARP RD, BRENT KNOLL, SOMERSET TA9 4HQ TEL: 01278 760 480 PLUGS - PLANTS - BULBS - HANGING BASKETS - TUBS - PERENNIALS - SHRUBS ALL PLANTS IN THEIR SEASON CITROEN SPECIALISTS - PARTS, REPAIRS, SERVICING OPEN 7 DAYS PARKING FACILITIES

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THE MANOR LODGE PRACTICE West Road, Lympsham, Nr Weston-s-Mare, Somerset, BS24 0EG Tel: 01934 750 419 Mob: 07815 417 063 Lisa Counsell D.O., Zac Beard B.Ost Registered Osteopaths Musculo-skeletal treatment for backache and joint problems, specialising in the cranial approach to children’s ailments

Holiday Home for Happy Cats MRS PAT PAULSON, WICKNOLL HOUSE, BURTON ROW, BRENT KNOLL, TA9 4BX Tel 01278 769078 - Mobile 07860 404062 Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 15

Brent Knoll Local History Society The next meeting of the Local History Society will take place at 7.30pm on the fourth Monday of October (the 26th) in the Jubilee Room of the Parish Hall, when we will look at some pictures and newspaper cuttings of Brent Knoll and discuss the origins of Brent Marsh, followed by our last meeting of the year on November 23rd (please note it is the 4th Monday even though November will have 5 Mondays). New members are always welcome to our meetings. We do make an enormous charge, normally £1, to cover the hire of the hall! At the September meeting, we had a look at the John Somerset Memorial, discussing the various elements and, in particular, discussed the events which happened after his death leading to a major set of Court cases. If you have any particular topics you would like to have discussions about during our Winter season, please do let me know and we will do our best to fit them in. If you have done any research into aspects of the village history, we would love to hear from you. If you have any photographs, papers or other matters of historical interest and are happy to show and discuss them, then please get in touch. John Page Act of Remembrance at Sanders Garden World There will be a short act of Remembrance at 11 o’clock on Wednesday November 11th in Sanders Garden World. Sally Wingate, Poppy Organiser FRONT COVER Photos Thanks to Jane Sinnott and Claire Polly for this month’s front cover photos. Bob 16

Jenny Butters attended our September meeting and with the help of her companions, we were given a wonderful demonstration of how dogs are trained ready for shows. It obviously takes a considerable amount of time and patience, but it is easy to see how much the dogs are loved and the love that they give in return. Besides entertaining us, she and her helpers supplied delicious cakes and served our tea. Christmas is approaching, so in November we will be holding our usual Christmas Fayre. All contributions will be greatly appreciated. At this meeting, we will need to confirm names of the members who will attend our Christmas Lunch at the Beachcomber Inn to give final numbers to the caterers. Next meeting – 18th November – Christmas Fayre We are a very friendly group and we welcome new members of all ages. We meet on the third Wednesday of every month; so just come along to a meeting or contact Joy Collett - 01278 760 458 or Trish Mace 01278 760 440. Trish Mace WI CRAFT GROUP We will meet at 2.30pm in the Methodist Church School room on Monday November 16th. We are a small friendly group who enjoy knitting, chatting and having a cuppa. We knit for Mission to Seafarers and Somewhere to Go. If you would like to join us, you would be most welcome; you don’t have to belong to the WI to do so. For more details please contact me on 760 691. Margaret Smith BRENT KNOLL AND MARK TENNIS CLUB The first of this season’s monthly Brent Knoll and Mark Tennis club whist drive will be on Monday 16th November at 7.00pm at Ivyclad Hall. Everyone is welcome and there will be prizes and a raffle. Thank you to Frances James for providing the venue. Chris Outfin Festive Market to be held in Brent Knoll Date Friday 4th December Time 6-9pm Venue Brent Knoll Parish Hall A festive evening is being held in the Village Hall in aid of local Charity, Help the Child. There will be a wide variety of stalls with original ideas for Christmas presents, homemade cakes and chutneys, carol singing by Brent Knoll Primary School, Santa in his grotto for the youngsters and hot festive food and drink throughout the evening. Admission is £2 for adults and each ticket will be entered into a draw for a splendid Christmas Hamper. Please come along and support a very worthwhile charity. Help the Child assists children in Somerset with physical disabilities, learning difficulties or sensory impairment, to maximise their full potential through the purchase of specialised equipment, such as supportive seating, trikes and multisensory equipment. 17

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Brent Knoll House Histories St Michaels House – formerly the Vicarage – 3 When the Reverend Joseph Ditcher became Vicar of South Brent in 1841, the living is stated in Bragg’s Directory of 1840 to be worth about £548 per annum, plus, of course, the free use of the Vicarage and the produce or benefits of the Glebe lands. The Tithe Apportionment of 1842, however, gives a figure of £689..3s..0d for the Vicar and £91 for “the Appropriate Rector”. The difference between these figures may be due to the fact that the Tithe Commutation Act of 1836 led to the Tithe Awards, detailed in a Tithe Map and a Tithe Apportionment. These showed the land (the map) and the amount that each landowner had to pay in cash, instead of paying tithes in kind as formerly (the apportionment). Of course, some tithes had already been commuted at an earlier date, but now all tithes were to be fixed at a rate based on the value of corn. As it took the Commissioners some time to agree all of these figures, and some were vigorously disputed, each parish had a differing date for completion of the exercise. The following year George Henry Law, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, along with the Honourable and Worshipful William Towry Law, clerk, Chancellor of Bath and Wells (who just happened to be George Henry’s nephew), issued a consent, requested by the Rev. Ditcher, for him to rebuild the Vicarage House. At this time the bishop, through growing problems with dementia, had lost the ability to control his diocese. But bishops did not retire at that time, so he moved out of Wells, to his house at Banwell Caves, whilst others handled the necessary administrative duties on his behalf. It would have been the Chancellor who initiated the proceedings shown here, although the bishop has, rather shakily, signed it and attached his seal. The consent cites an Act of 1777 “to promote the Residence of the Parochial Clergy by making provision for the more speedy and effectual building, rebuilding, repairing or purchasing houses and other necessary buildings and tenements for the use of their Benefices”, plus some later amendments. It sets up an inquiry into the state and condition of the building and any money he has received for dilapidations from the previous incumbent. It appears that William Towry Law and the Rev. Alfred Harford, of Locking, conducted the inquiry and their report, issued a couple of days later, says they have investigated it and “do find that the same have been kept in due and common repair without any wilful neglect”. They also note that Ditcher has received “the sum of ninety nine pounds, nine shillings and four pence for such dilapidations”. This would be the money that the Representatives of the former incumbent, the Rev Johnson, were obliged to set aside for dilapidations that occurred during his incumbency. They also note that this money “has not been laid out or expended in repairing the Building”. However, the Rev. Ditcher was not interested in restoring the building. His objective was to rebuild and he had already taken steps to initiate this, as is demonstrated by a report, issued the following day, from George Phillips Manners of Bath, a surveyor, who states that he has recently surveyed the Vicarage House and its offices. Continued on page 20 20

Brent Knoll House Histories – Continued He issued a certificate showing the present state, and a specification of “the nature of and estimated expenses of the works necessary to be done to rebuild the same and of the value of the old materials fit to be used in and about the said works and to be sold towards defraying the expenses thereof”. He further “saith that there is not any timber on the Glebe fit to be used in the building and that the old materials to be used therein are of the value of two hundred pounds”. We will explore those specifications later, but first must note that the financing of this project came from three sources: x Money for dilapidations from the representatives of the late incumbent, which now appears to be only £88..16s..4d., instead of the £99..9s..4d. mentioned previously. Perhaps £10..13s..0d. was used for minor running repairs already. x The sum of £1095..10..8d., “received, or about to be received,…from the Governors of the Bounty of Queen Anne for the Augmentation of the maintenance of the Poor Clergy”. The Rev. Ditcher could hardly be classified as “Poor Clergy”, but, after the excess of pluralism (vicars having more than one benefice) and absenteeism (non-residence, sometimes with a curate running the parish, sometimes not) in the eighteenth century, the church was keen to ensure that each parish had a resident vicar and that the often neglected Vicarages were brought up to standard. So the 1877 Act, mentioned above, was approved. This amount is not a donation, however, but a mortgage for thirty five years at an annual interest of £3..5s..0d.%. x £1182..6s..0d. from the Bishop of Bath and Wells. Which probably suggests that this is the diocesan contribution to the rebuilding programme These three amounts made a grand total of £2364..12s..0d. None of the sums involved went directly to the vicar, however. A bond was established whereby George Barons Northcote (of Somerset Court), who was nominated by the Rev. Ditcher to receive and apply the same, holds the money and both he and Joseph Ruscombe Poole are to be jointly and severally bound to the Bishop for the total sum, including the dilapidations money, the mortgage and the Bishop’s contribution. However, if the monies are properly accounted for this obligation becomes void. John Page Notice for all Drivers Will all drivers, please conform to Highway Code rule 243, Parking. Do not park or stop opposite or within 10 meters (32ft) of a junction, except in an authorised parking space, this will include parking opposite the following, Portland Place, Battleborough Lane, Manor Ride, Church Lane and Laurel Avenue. Parking opposite these junctions is Highly Dangerous. Concerned Resident The value in a bottle of wine If one pays say £4.99 for a bottle of still wine at 13% alcohol in the UK, £2.88 (58%) of the price goes to HM Treasury in duty and VAT. The duty element of this (£2.05) remains the same, whatever the quality of the wine. The consequence of this, is that the more you pay for your wine, the higher the proportion of the price that actually goes into the quality of the wine itself! If one pays say £10 or £20 gross, the extra £5 or £6 or more, the difference in quality becomes more obvious. Q.E.D. The Friendly Pharmacist 21

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Women’s Society Thank you to those who were able to come to the AGM and thank you to everyone for the delicious cake and cards. We have booked tickets for the West production of ‘Hello, Hello’ for Tuesday 27th October, please note that the play had sold out for the Thursday so we have decided on Tuesday. For those who would like to join us but have not given their names to Julie, would you please telephone her ASAP on 01278 751 229 - thank you. On November 26th we are meeting at the home of Dot Hatfield - Park Farm, Brent Street, where we are to be encouraged to make Christmas Table Decorations. This should be fun and interesting and we may be able to purchase items for the festive season. Our Christmas meal is at The Red Cow on Tuesday 15th December - all are very welcome. I hope to have our programme printed shortly. Ann, 760 148 Women’s Institute At our October meeting, Rita Joliffe spoke about the charity she supports which raises money to buy powered wheelchairs for disabled children under five. The wheelchairs are called Wizzybugs and cost over £4,000 to make. The Wizzybug is easy for a child to use and enables them to be independently mobile at home and outside. The Wizzybugs are provided free by the charity. The speaker at the meeting on 11th November will be Mr. Richard Godfrey who will talk about Waitrose and the John Lewis Partnership. The winner of the Flower of the Month competition was Jean Rich with a rose. JMG “Meet & Eat” Meet and Eat will be held in the Nuttall Room, Brent Knoll Parish Hall on Monday 16th November at 12.30pm. Please book with Liz by Friday 14th November; 01278 760 810. We will be confirming bookings for the Christmas meal at Woodlands on Monday December 7th. We look forward to seeing you for lunch and good company. Liz, Rosemary, Bella and Weit BERROW CONSERVATION GROUP Our next meeting is in Berrow Village Hall on Tuesday 24th November at 7.30pm, when James Packer, a local birder and professional wildlife consultant, will talk to us on : ‘The Joys and Challenges of Photographing Rare and Scarce Wildlife in Berrow’. Visitors £2.50 Members £1.00 . Refreshments included. All are welcome. Ann Griffiths Just for Fun – Dictionary Definitions Apex - A gorilla’s old girlfriend.. Roger Ward 24

Royal British Legion (Brent Knoll Branch)

Saturday 7th November Red Cow Inn 7.30pm £6.00 per person to include supper Just for Fun – Word Search Can you find the Shipping Forecast Areas? You can find the answers Forwards, Backwards, Horizontal, Vertical or Diagonal. Roy Ainsworth P W A E S H S I R I R U C Q J Bailey Humber G C T B V E R R E T S I N I F Biscay Iceland N R S H A N N O N U A O T F O Cromarty Irish Sea Dogger Lundy I O A E L S I R I A F K O Y R Dover Malin KMLCZSBHXTW R A L T Fair Isle Plymouth I A R U H T R O F H T C R Y I Fastnet Portland V R E F N E S O E G S R E D E Finisterre Rockall P T G E T D L D I I M E H T S Fisher Shannon Forth Sole O Y G G N Y Y O B B R V S E L Forties Thames RGOB I ENHSNF O I N L German Bight Tyne T E D I L A Q E N A K D F T A Hebrides Viking L Z B I A H T U O M Y L P S K

A E A M M S E D I R B E H A C NBDYUDNALEC I L F O

D S E M A H T M V G C X P F R 25

We are a family run Brent Knoll based company .Established in 1989 Services we provide:- Lawn Mowing & Maintenance Strimming / Brushcutting Hedge Cutting All aspects of Tree Work Garden Clearance Regular Garden Maintenance Removal of Garden Waste 'Licensed Carrier - Fully Insured Weed Killing, Fence Treatment Local Authority Work Tel: 01278 760 815 Mob: 07730 435038

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What is the “200+ Club”? This is a brief explanation of the “200+ Club” for those who are not currently members. Members purchase one or more “Numbers” for £ 12 each. All Numbers are entered into 12 monthly draws with prizes of £20 and £12, plus two special prizes, one in June of £60 and one in December of £120. If more than 100 numbers are purchased, the number of prizes is increased to keep the prize money and the chance of winning roughly in proportion. The draws are made at Village Events and winners are published in the Brent Knoll News. Winnings are paid by cheque. In the 18 years that the “200+ Club” has run, there have been over 1650 prizes totalling over £26,500. If you would like to join the “200+ Club” with a chance to win a prize and to support the Parish Hall at the same time, please see the article and application form in this issue of the Brent Knoll News. Bob Filmer, 200+ Club Co-ordinator Crossword Answers Across 20) Alert Down 14) Vitriol 1) Distinction 22) Radical 2) Ingrate 16) Unchain 9) Foggy 24) Casting 3) Thyme 17) Larch 10) Tetanus 25) Track 4) Notary 18) Tragic 11) Amateur 26) Replacement 5) Tottery 19) Slake 12) Eerie 6) Owner 21) Ensue 13) Serve 7) Offal 23) Datum 15) Syrup 8) Ashen Roy Ainsworth Have you heard of the SLINKY Bus Service? Your local Slinky Service could help you get from A to B if you do not have your own transport, cannot access a normal public bus service, or are disabled. The Slinky Bus Service travels in specific areas on different days, and you can book a seat on it up to two weeks in advance. The Slinky Bus is available to travel to Burnham and Weston on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Find out about the local Slinky Bus Service in or to register to use the service, visit www.movingsomersetforward.co.uk or phone 01749 880 948. RBL Women’s Section Christmas Meal Our Christmas meal, held jointly with the Men’s Section, will be at 7pm on Tuesday 8th December in the Red Cow. If you wish to attend, or for further information, please contact the Secretary on 760347. Mary Piper St Michael’s Church -Flower Sales I would like to thank all those who bought my home grown flowers at our village shop in aid of “St Michael’s Friends”. The proceeds are given for the building's repair and upkeep. The amount so far is some £100. We have work to be carried out during this year and next totalling some £23,000. So every little helps. Why not become a friend of the St. Michael’s church to help us restore our Grade 1 building ? A special thank you to Caroline who is so generous in allowing me to sell the flowers at her shop. Tony Gilbert 28

A Flying Instructor’s Life – Part 4 by Peter Dallosso During my 13 years flying in the RN, several incidents occurred on which I look back with amusement on some, but not with others. Here are a few of them. They are in roughly chronological order; names have been reduced to initials to save embarrassment. Readers familiar with the Stearman N2S will remember the one-way speaking tube (Instructor to Student). The student could only respond by looking into the rear view mirror and shaking or nodding his head as appropriate. My Instructor (Ensign J P) did not like the British. I progressed very slowly, probably partly because I suffered occasions when the stick was rattled against my knees, and his voice came through: “Ok, you g__ d___ Limey, fly the s__ of a b____ how you like”. Fortunately I got a change of instructor and was relieved to get off solo after 14 hours. I did not enjoy my first solo in the Corsair - hydraulic failure! Fortunately it occurred before I got the wheels up. To add to the general confusion, the wind had changed 180° in my absence - enough said. Who remembers ADDLs? Aerodrome Dummy Deck Landings. The Corsair, with its very long nose, needed a curved approach and short straight final. With the CO ‘batting’, a certain Sub Lieut (A) TD, who is of rather short stature, made an off centre landing and disappeared off into the grass. Later I heard the CO say “Well T, what were you up to?” T replied “Well sir, I can either see out or keep straight, but I can’t do both”. For general pleasure, seaplane flying is probably my favourite - particularly the water handling - picking up a buoy, slick or choppy water approaches. The Walrus, with a “pusher” propeller could be managed solo - set the cockpit controls for starting, crank up the inertia starter on the engine, pull the starter toggle and as the engine fires jump in the cockpit, slip the buoy line and away. I used to practise the manoeuvres in Padstow Harbour with my new wife waving from the jetty. Another pleasure - after practising landings in the Solent, returning to Lee could be made on the surface - up the slipway, across the main road, stopping the traffic and dripping your way through the large gates into the airfield. I only “ditched” once, a Firefly, and swam away from it, so I consider it a good “ditcher”. We were catapulted off HMS Glory for ASPRO duty, carrying two depth charges. At about 800ft the Rolls Royce Griffon gave up. Luckily I remembered to jettison the depth charges, as they exploded on impact (an impossibility according to the TAS Officer later). I turned along the swell and put her down. The crew were using “low level mode” of dress - oxygen disconnected, parachute harness undone but dinghy secured to Mae West. The aircraft settled evenly. By the time I stood up, I was up to my waist in water (survival suit being worn, sea temp 39°F). My observer was also quickly out and 15 minutes later we were picked up by the USS Hanna, and an hour after that back on board Glory by jackstay transfer, in exchange for two dozen bottles of whisky. Sea time followed and a watch keeping ticket. How pleasant to serve in HMS Gambia, a comfortable Colony Class cruiser, instead of an overcrowded carrier. Peter Dallosso Christmas Carols at the Red Cow If you enjoy singing carols and a glass of whatever, come and join us at 9pm on the 17th December and join with us singing some Christmas Carols and munch a some nibbles kindly provided by the Red Cow. Or you could always come early book and have a meal beforehand. Hope to see you there. Further details from Tim Cromwell 01278 760 275. Tim Cromwell 29

WANT TO PLAY THE PIANO or KEYBOARD? Qualified piano and keyboard teacher in Brent Knoll available for friendly, informal lessons Beginners and nervous students a speciality Learn for fun – no pressure to sit exams! For those who do want to work through their grades, the A.B.R.S.M. syllabus is taught. Call Amy on 760 100 / 07740 167703

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PARISH HALL COMMITTEE FORTHCOMING EVENTS for your DIARY 2nd Saturday Bazaar, Farmers’ Market and Parish Café 28th November BAD CANCELLED 16th July Music on the Green 16th April “Top Mix” – 60’s/70’s Night featuring “Kick the Cat” 11th June Village Fête Bristol’s Best ‘Blues Brothers’, Soul and Funk Revue Band Next Committee meeting – Monday, 9th November, - 8pm, “Jubilee Room” Holywell Nursing Home Christmas Coffee morning Thursday 3rd December 10.30am-12.15pm Jar Tombola, Raffle, Guess the weight of the cake, Guess the name of the fairy, Vanda and her amazing bags Everyone welcome

Brent Knoll Classical Music Circle The Brent Knoll Classical Music Group meets at Ball Copse Hall. Sessions are held every Monday evening starting at 7.00pm and lasts for two hours. The term lasts from 21st September until 7th December. The cost for the term is £20, representing less than £2 per session! I do hope you will join us. I guarantee that you will hear some really good music, in pleasant surroundings, with great company. Please contact Alan Spencer on 01278 760 572 if you are interested in attending. Alan Spencer, Brent Knoll, Music Circle Burns Night Saturday,January23rd2016 BrentKnollParishHall inaidofStMichael’sChurch ThelastBurnsnighttobeheldinthevillagewasagreatsuccessso, ‘GirlsJustWannaHaveFun’hasdecidedtodoitagain. TheeveningwillincludeathreecoursetraditionalBurnsNightmeal, withapiper,addressingthehaggisandScottishdancing. Earlybirdtickets(i.e.boughtbeforeChristmas)willbe£17eachand afterthat£20each–toincludeaweedramofwhiskey! PleasecontactCarolineintheVillageShopwithanyquestions. 32

Lympsham Gardening Club At our October meeting, Adrian Hutchinson told us about Plants for Shady Places. Adrian has been involved with wildflowers since childhood. After being self-employed for 25 years he joined Long Acre Plants at Charlton Musgrove 5 or 6 years ago. Long Acre Plants is a nursery that specialises in plants for shade. Adrian told us about many different species of plants which like shade and mainly flower in Spring and he illustrated his talk with slides. Many types of plants, like Anemones, Lilies and some types of Primula, do not like heat or conditions that dry out. A lot of these plants come from North America but we are now getting more and more from Japan and China. Quite a few of the plants that grow in shady places here in Britain also grow at higher altitudes in places like the Dolomites and Pyrenees. Some of our woodland plants will grow as wild flowers right up to an altitude of 8,000 feet above sea level. Species like Ferns will even grow on shady rock faces or in any north facing condition that does not dry out. More plants which like just shady conditions include Snowdrops, Cyclamen and Hellebores and some examples of plants which thrive in conditions that do not dry out, are Heucheras, Astrantias and Aquilegias. All the slides Adrian showed us were very colourful with attractive flowers. The slides also included some shrubs and trees such as Azaleas and Magnolias, which require the same conditions of damp woodland shade with acid soil, which they get from a build up of leaves on the ground below. If you want to grow these and you don’t have acid soil, you can add lime to the soil to help them grow. After his presentation, Adrian had plants for sale and answered members questions. Dates of future Meetings at the Manor Hall, Lympsham:- Tuesday 10th November 7.45pm Talk by Mr Everitt about ‘The Winter Garden’ at the Manor Hall. Tuesday 8th December Quiz Night. Do not forget to bring some nibbles. Wine, orange juice and coffee will be provided for Christmas cheer. Visitors and New Members are Very Welcome to join us at any of our meetings. Mariette Denison

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SAM’S MINI-DIGGER KENNY GORDON PLANT HIRE SERVICES GENERAL GROUNDWORKS, PADDOCK & FIELD NO JOB TO BIG OR SMALL FENCING. EXCAVATION OF WATERWAYS & HORSE ARENAS MAN AND MACHINE FOR FURTHER DETAILS VISIT OR MACHINE ONLY. www.kennygordonplanthire.co.uk MACHINE WILL FIT THOUGH Tel: 01278 760 642 / 07885 251 697 A 2FT 6’ DOORWAY. MACHINE WEIGHT IS 750KG. ALL ASPECTS OF GENERAL LANDSCAPES AND GROUNDWORKS UNDERTAKEN FULLY INSURED, FREE QUOTES. PLEASE CALL SAM VIGAR ON 07762969707 Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 34

SW AIRPORT CARS BASED IN BRENT KNOLL Very Competitive Prices

Let’s Celebrate Cakes by Alison Reliable Professional Driver Long Distance Specialist Wedding and Celebration Cakes Call: 760 592 or 07950 304 196 Cupcakes and Sugarcraft workshops for a quote Alison 07825 233665 www.lets-celebrate.uk.com Licensed for Private Hire by Sedgemoor DC Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 35

November Sudokus Another Two Step Sudoku Hard Sudoku (Win a £5 Prize!)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

A 4 2 1 A 2

B 9 2 5 6 B 5 3 1

C 3 8 7 9 C 1 4 8

D 1 4 7 D 7 6

E 9 5 8 7 6 E 8

F 8 2 9 3 5 F 3

G 1 5 9 G 4

H 6 3 4 8 H 2 6

J 7 9 3 24 J 95 7 This month’s Easiest Sudoku again solves in just 2 steps (21 and 24). Comments on last month’s Sudoku varied. One “rated the middle section of the solution as hard”. Someone said “Thanks for an easy one that a 90 year old’s little grey cells can manage”. Another remarked “A little tricky”. The 17 persons who solved it were: - Ivor Ainsworth, Klaus Brenner, Jenny Butters, Tim Cromwell, Mac Hares, Christine Hall, Holywell Nursing Home, Liz Ibrahim, Stephen Lawrence, Chris Marsh, Frankie New, Peter Osborn, Pat Paulson, Emma Smith, John Spiers, Ted Toon and Gordon Watson. Welcome to Emma Smith’s first entry. Tim Cromwell won the ballot (again!). Please send answers to [email protected] or 48, Brent Street. David Filmer Last month’s Sudoku Solutions (by popular request from several competitors) are below:- Last month’s Easy Sudoku Hard Sudoku 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 5 3 2 4 7 A 6 8 1 9 A 2 8 5196374

B 7 9 4 6 3 5 1 2 8 B 37452 8 9 6 1

8 2 7 6 C 1 9 4 3 5 C 461378295

8 1 6 5 7 D 9 3 2 4 D 319764852 1 7 4 8 2 3 E 5 9 6 E 658923147

F 6 4 2 3 5 7 8 19 F 72 81963 45 1 6 9 4 G 3 5 8 7 2 G 576239418 5 4 3 6 8 H 2 9 7 1 H 8 4361 5729 7 1 2 35 J 4 8 6 9 J 192 847536

Just for Fun – Dictionary Definitions Blood brother : A vampire’s relative. Abundance : A dance in a bakery. Roger Ward 36

“200+ CLUB” – 2016 There is now only one draw left in 2015, the CRACKING CHRISTMAS DRAW, which will take place at the Parish Hall, at our Christmas Bazaar and Farmers’ Market, on Saturday 12th December. There will be 17 prizes - 1 x £120, 1 x £60, 2 x £ 40, 3 x £20, 2 x £16, 2 x £12, 2 x £10, 2 x £8 and 2 x £6, totalling £424!!. In the 2015 “200+ Club” we had 222 members, holding 337 numbers. Of the £4,044 income received, by the end of the year £1,768 will have been paid out in prize money and £2,256 will have gone to the Parish Hall, (the balance of £20, is the cost of the licence for running the 200+ Club). As we had over 100 numbers, we were able to give extra £20, £16, £12, £10, £8 and £6 prizes each month and extra prizes at the June and Christmas draws. The More Members the Merrier for ALL!!. In the last 18 years the “200+ Club” has raised over £34,500. We would like to run the “200+ Club” again in 2016 to help us to continue to maintain and improve the Parish Hall and to continue to pay back the approximately £28,000 still owing on the Charity Bank loan that enabled us to complete the “Jubilee Room” opened in 2012. We hope that we can count on your support. Anyone aged over 16 years can be a member of the 2016 “200+ Club”. Don’t forget your relatives and friends can join (they don’t even have to live in the village). As well as locals, we have members from America, Australia, , Bath, Berrow, Bracknell, Bristol, Burnham, Canada, Dorset, Highbridge, Mark, Kent, Salisbury, Scotland, Southampton, Taunton, Wales, Watchet, , Wellington, Weston, Yorkshire and even East Brent! Your chances of winning are much better than the Lotto! Below is an application form for next year’s membership. I would be most grateful if you could complete and return it to me, together with your subscription, as soon as possible, either via the Village Shop or directly. In December, I shall write to all those who join, giving details of their allocated number(s) and the date of the first draw in 2016!!!!. Thank you for your support and Good Luck!! Bob Filmer, 200+ Club Co-ordinator NOTE - Cheques will NOT be cashed until after 1/1/2016 WIN UP TO £120!! Monthly draws entitle winners to prizes including: st 1 Prize £ 20 + others including £ 12 In addition, two annual draws entitle winners to EXTRA prizes including: Summer Draw Christmas Draw st st 1 Prize - £ 60 1 Prize - £ 120 The more numbers issued, the more prizes, keeping the chances of winning just as high. In 2015 we will have paid out 113 prizes totalling £ 1,768!! Numbers will be allocated at a cost of £ 12 per year (£1 per month) ALL PROFITS TO BRENT KNOLL PARISH HALL ------Complete below and return with your payment of £ 12 per entry to: Bob Filmer, Wascelyn, 48, Brent Street, Brent Knoll or the Brent Knoll Village Shop. You can apply for 1 or more numbers. Why not get your friends and family to have a go and support your LOCAL Parish Hall at the same time. Your Name Mr/Mrs/Ms …………………………………………………………… Address ………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………… Telephone ………………………………………………………………………… Yes, I would like to buy …… number(s) in Brent Knoll Parish Hall “200+ Club” Please enclose cash or cheque for £ 12 per “200+ Club” number. Cheques payable to “Brent Knoll Parish Hall”. 37

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Bespoke Gates and Garage Doors Limited

Unit 5, Mill Batch Farm, East Brent, Somerset, TA9 4JN Tel : 01278 760068

e-mail: [email protected]

Manufacturers of quality bespoke wooden gates 39

North Somerset Branch (Reg. Charity No. 205284) Come and Join Us for a

QUIZ NIGHT at

Catherine's Inn, Bleadon, Bleadon Road, BS24 0PZ Sunday 15th November 7.30pm for 8.00pm start £50.00 First Prize (kindly sponsored by Bridge Veterinary Practice) £6 per persons includes - Hot Food Pub Platter - maximum: 6 per team - Phone or text 07880 850825 for book your table Popular event so booking advisable Proceeds to the RSPCA Brent Knoll Animal Centre www.rspcanorthsomerset.org.uk Sunday Tea Party – 15th November 2015 Are you 75 or over and living alone? Would you like to be treated to delicious sandwiches and cakes in the home of a Brent Knoll villager? After yet another convivial tea party in October, the next Contact the Elderly monthly tea party will be held on Sunday 18th November from 3pm. If you need a lift, a volunteer driver will collect you and return you home safely. To book your place at the tea party - or to volunteer as a driver or occasional host - please contact me Kim Wilcox, Village Agent [email protected] or 07943 555 519 Kim

“Do you realise Christmas is only about eight weeks away?” “I suppose the wife will soon be dropping hints on shopping!” “Why do we have to have extra food at Christmas? I always seem to be feeding the birds chicken bits and mince pies at the end of January!” “That’s why you need extra food at Christmas. To feed your birds!” 40

Brent Knoll Scarecrow Weekend 2015 A HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who supported the weekend!! The support from the village was great again this year - whether your family made a scarecrow or you bought a trail sheet and took part in the trail. We are pleased to be able to advise you that the girls from Girlguiding Somerset raised £1000 from the sale of the refreshments for their trips to Canada in 2017 and Europe in 2016. Girlguiding Brent Knoll raised £818.50, and when we take out the expenses for the Parish Hall rent of £96.00, we are left with £722.50 which has been divided between the Rainbows, Brownies and Guides, each group receiving £240.83. This was a great result and we thank everyone for their support. All the scarecrows were fantastic and each one with its own story to tell. The secrecy before the event of what each family is making is tense and many garage lights were on late on the Friday night - with families making last minute adjustments to their creations. On the morning of the event, the village becomes a hive of activity when scarecrows are put out and their identities revealed!! Once again the ‘special effects’ came into play - our first moving scarecrow with the Big Bad Wolf, real sweets on offer from Willy Wonka and chocolates for all in Robin Hood’s box of treasure. A MASSIVE THANK YOU to the villagers who made scarecrows - you all put on a wonderful show and gave so many people a great weekend. Special thanks to: AMP Electrical SW Ltd, Paul Dixon Carpenter & Joiner, Builder, Small Business Accountancy Company and Ashley Edwards Funeral Directors for their sponsorship, The Hale and Poulter families for allowing us to display our banners, Christine Sandy for painting the wonderful advertising scarecrows (all six of them!!) and the display in the Post Office Window (we have been asked if the scarecrows can be used at the Food and Drink Festival in Burnham at the end of October). Caroline at the Post Office and Girlguiding Brent Knoll parents for selling trail sheets. Thank you to Scott Pring of Brent Catering for his help and assistance with the catering. The Winners: Highly Commended 1st - Chewbacca - The Baker Family Gordon Gecko - The Martin Family 2nd - Ursula the Sea Witch - Tadpoles Preschool Bear Grylls - The Field Family 3rd - The Big Bad Wolf - The Richards Family Bees are Heroes - The Gass Family The Peoples Favourite: Harry Potter and Voldemort - The Dixon st 1 - Harry Potter & Voldemort - The Dixon Family Family 2nd - The Big Bad Wolf - The Richards Family My Dad - The Dickinson Family Trail Sheet Winner: The Troll - Dr Seuss Class Christopher Moore from East Brent Florence Nightingale - Karen & Steve Russell Willy Wonka - Jane Sinnott Affairs – part 2 A middle-aged couple had two beautiful daughters but always talked about having a son. They decided to try one last time for the son they always wanted. The wife got pregnant and delivered a healthy baby boy. The joyful father rushed to the nursery to see his new son. He was horrified at the ugliest child he had ever seen. He told his wife: ‘There's no way I can be the father of this baby. Look at the two beautiful daughters I fathered! Have you been fooling around behind my back?’. The wife smiled sweetly and replied: ‘No, not this time!’ The Friendly Pharmacist 41 )ORULGD9LOOD +HDWHG3RRO)RXUEHGURRPV PLQXWHVIURP'LVQH\IURP SHUZHHN $YDLODEOHWKURXJKRXWWKH\HDU &RQWDFW6XHDQG'DYH0F0LOODQ ZZZRXUYLOODIORULGDFRXN RU DQG 6NLDSDUWPHQWLQ)UHQFK$OSVIRUUHQW ZZZSX\VWYLQFHQWFRXN DAVID FORD AERIALS BURNHAM FUNERAL SERVICES LTD All types of TV aerials plus extra points Richard Marsh L.M.B.I.F.D. Dip. F.D. Freesat, Sky and European/Motorised dishes FAMILY RUN FUNERAL DIRECTORS Discreet and careful installations Personal & Caring •'Private Chapels FREE call out and quotations Monumental Masons Quality installations for over 24 years Pre-Paid Funeral Plans Please call A COMPLETE FUNERAL SERVICE DAVID FORD 97 Oxford Street, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 1EW on either Tel: 01278 795009 or 01278 793666 TEL: 01278 489182 www.burnhamfuneralservices.co.uk or MOBILE: 07740 946385

CASTLE MILL MOT CENTRE LTD WILLIAM PEACH v All Makes Professionally Repaired and Serviced v Latest Diagnostic Equipment v Class 4 and 7 MOT’s v Recovery Service TEL: 01934 750663 Castlehead Sawmills A38, Biddisham, Axbridge, Somerset, BS26 2RE (5 mins from Brent Knoll)

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Secure Caravan Storage Gary and Sarah Bowden G&S Storage Tel: 01934 750298 Mob:07970 950707 Highland Farm, Lympsham, Somerset, BS24 0JQ www.gands-storage.co.uk just 4 miles from Junction 22 or the M5 Insurance approved – CaSSOA (Gold) CCTV Hard standing with easy access Wash facility Storage containers to rent OPEN ALL YEAR Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 43

Use it or Lose it! During the Summer we have several holiday makers in the village who find their way into my shop and always comment on how lucky we are to still have a shop and Post Office. Please think about what you have on your doorstep, I would hate to be the one to bring to an end a vital part of the community - but if the community is not going to use it.... Caroline “200+ Club” – October and November Draws The October and November draws took place at the at the Parish Hall committee meeting with the numbers drawn by committee members. The winning numbers were:- October No. Prize Name First Prize 132 £ 20 Mr A.E. Bell Harp Road Brent Knoll Second Prize 318 £ 20 Mrs S.P. Marsh Brent Street Brent Knoll Third Prize 42 £ 16 Mr & Mrs Fetridge Burton Row Brent Knoll Fourth Prize 32 £ 12 Mr & Mrs D.I. Robson Doniford Watchet Fifth Prize 38 £ 12 Mrs S.M. Veley Brent Street Brent Knoll Sixth Prize 293 £ 10 Mr & Mrs K.B. Wilcox Brent Street Brent Knoll Seventh Prize 312 £ 8 Mr J. Dennett Burton Row Brent Knoll Eighth Prize 61 £ 6 Mr A.J. Hill Hill Lane Brent Knoll November No. Prize Name First Prize 139 £ 20 Mr P.J. Bull Battleborough Lane Brent Knoll Second Prize 345 £ 20 Mrs M.E. Dimmock Harp Road Brent Knoll Third Prize 162 £ 16 Mrs M.P. Frost Ham Road Brent Knoll Fourth Prize 48 £ 12 Miss R.V. Nussey Edinburgh Scotland Fifth Prize 103 £ 12 Mr & Mrs P.S. Dixon Brent Street Brent Knoll Sixth Prize 212 £ 10 Mr M. Dallosso Llangammarch Wales Seventh Prize 341 £ 8 Mr M.A.R. Chalom Brightstowe Road Burnham Eighth Prize 25 £ 6 Mr & Mrs B.A.C. Purnell Ellisfield Court Taunton You can see all the “200+ Club” winners on the village website at www.brentknollvillage.co.uk Thank you all for your continued support of the “200+ Club” and our Parish Hall. Bob Filmer 44

Brent Knoll Weather Report – September 2015 The first month of Autumn was a refreshing change from the rather uninspiring Summer of 2015, with a couple of spells of persistent high pressure – a feature which was conspicuous by its absence during July and August. These highs generated a good deal of sunshine, which perhaps, made it feel warmer than it really was, though it was none the less welcome for that. The rainfall total for the month was a modest 47.2mm, and there was little in the way of wind. September began with a high pressure system to the west of Ireland, protecting us from Atlantic lows and their associated wind and rain. At the same time, the high pulled cold air down from the north, so we spent the first few days of the month in a cool, westerly breeze, which kept temperatures well below normal for early September. On the 5th September, this high pressure system moved across the UK bringing us some clear skies, although a cool easterly breeze meant that cloud was occasionally drawn across the UK from the North Sea. As the high began to move away to the east of the UK on the 10th, we were in a warmer airflow, and sunshine that afternoon produced the highest temperature of the month of 23.6C. Once the high pressure system had moved off over Scandinavia, the way was clear for Atlantic lows to take over. It rained every day for the following week (11th-18th), the wettest day of the month being the 14th with 17.6mm. We had a short break on the 19/20th with high pressure over France and the south of the UK, and then the lows returned until the 24th, bringing more showery weather. September finished in style, though, because on the 25th, a large high pressure system moved in from the south west - just in time to produce some glorious weather for the Scarecrow weekend. This high stayed with us (and much of Northern Europe) for the remainder of the month producing blue skies and sunshine by day, and clear nights with brilliant moonlight from the full moon - and splendid views of the eclipse on the 28th for those who were able to stay up late. Despite all the sunshine, September was a cool month thanks to that chilly first week or so, and also the lengthening clear nights, which allowed temperatures to drop rapidly once the sun had gone down. The lowest temperature of 2.9C was recorded early on the 26th, our second-lowest September value, and the average for the month was 13.2C, about 1.5C below normal. This was the coolest September we have recorded since the station was set up, although it didn’t feel that way – it seems a shame that we finally got all that sunshine, just as the children went back to school! Stephen Baggs; www.knollweather.co.uk BRENT KNOLL PARISH SURGERY our Parish Clerk, Owen Cullwick will be holding a Parish Surgery on Wednesday, November 4th 4pm to 5.30pm Jubilee Room, Brent Knoll Parish Hall Please use this opportunity to meet your Parish Clerk to discuss any issues Brent Knoll Table Tennis Club New members old and young still welcome!!! We meet every Thursday evening at the Parish Hall - 8.00pm - 9.30pm for games of doubles and singles - even if you can only play occasionally, please drop in or call :- John Mathews - 07414 868 333. John Mathews 45 PLUMBING BY GEORGE! 302969 Brent Knoll · Small Jobs - Dripping Taps - Leaking Toilets, Outside Taps, Shower Replacements, etc. · Gas Boiler replacement, Radiators and System Upgrades, Boiler servicing · Limited time only - up to 7 year extended warranty on all new Worcester Boilers (accredited installer) · Bathroom Design and Installation Tel: 01278 760 543 Or 07813 321 197

Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 46 Shrub Farm Lodge Small Business B&B Accountancy Company Making your Stay 8 Market Street, Highbridge, Somerset Home from Home TA9 3BW Professional and Personal service at Comfortable Bed and Breakfast competitive rates Ground Floor Accommodation - * Self Assessment Tax Returns Self Contained * Annual Accounts Traditional Full English Breakfast * Bookkeeping Contact Angie Lapage at * VAT Shrub Farm, Burton Row * Payroll Tel 01278 769286 ********************** Email: * Sole Traders * Partnerships [email protected] * Limited Companies Website: Contact Ian Robson on 01278 760 067 www.shrubfarmlodge.co.uk Email: [email protected]

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More Ramblings of a Rambler Last month I promised you that I would find out the name of the baby Alpaca that lives below Windy Ridge, well it’s Pedro. Apparently he is named after a neighbour of the owners called Peter. Here we are a month away from Christmas: where does the time go? November is a time to remember, we remember those who paid the supreme sacrifice in two Great Wars and other conflicts. We also remember Guy Fawkes who attempted to blow up the seat of Government. I do not know whether today’s generation realise we celebrate the fact Guy Fawkes failed to blow up Parliament, I think they celebrate the fact he tried. So if you are having a bonfire, check that there are no Hedgehogs hidden in it before you set it alight. I was reading recently about the plight of the Hedgehog, apparently numbers in the UK are fewer than a million, so there is a big drive to increase their numbers. If you wish to adopt a Hedgehog you should know Hedgehogs are not herbivores and will not eat plant matter. You have to encourage the pests that gardeners try to obliterate, such as slugs, snails, beetles and caterpillars. You should, therefore, plant your garden with plants that will attract insects. Large leaf plants such as Hostas that keep the ground beneath them nice and damp will be an ideal home for slugs etc.: Remember Hedgehogs have little legs and can find it difficult to climb out of a steep sided excavation and with its very prickly exterior can easily become entangled in netting or discarded litter. To prolong the visit of your Hedgehog, build it a shelter in a secluded part of the garden, making it nice and cosy and camouflage it with leaf litter. After attending to the Hedgehogs needs, consider your own. Now that the dark nights are here, a good book in front of a wood burning stove is as good as it gets. The Rambleress insists a bar of chocolate should accompany the book and the fire. The Rambler St Mary’s Hand bells Would anyone like to join our Group of hand bell ringers?: St Mary’s hand bells are greatly in need of more members. They are a lovely set of pre 1940 bells and we have an enjoyable ‘ding dong’ once a week during term time. However, several members of our team have to retire and we would welcome anyone interested in joining us. If you are, please ring either Janet 760 445 or Frances 760 287. Frances James Postal Scam Please be aware of the following scam: A card is posted through your door from a company called PDS (Parcel Delivery Service) suggesting that they were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to contact them on 0906 661 1911 (a Premium rate number). DO NOT call this number, as this is a mail scam originating from Belize. If you call the number and you start to hear a recorded message you will already have been billed £315 for the phone call. If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655. The Friendly Pharmacist The Comfort Group Do you have, or do you know someone who has, a serious or life-threatening disease? If so The Comfort Group meet on the first Thursday of each month at Sommerdale Farm, Slade Lane, Lympsham, from 2.30 - 4.30 pm. You are most welcome to come along. There's time to chat and share, with a cuppa and cake and most probably a little fun as well! For details contact either - Sandra Hanmer 01934 750 076 or - Dot Coles 01276 760 600. 48 USEFUL VILLAGE CONTACTS: PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL, Secretaryy Sandra Hanmer 01934 750076 PARISH ADMINISTRATOR Maryy Ford 769082 CHURCH WARDEN Miss Frances James 760287 Mike Smith 760691 CHURCH CLEANERS Wiet Harperp 760803 CHURCH FLOWERS Mrs g Marion Vining760612 POPPY ORGANISER Mrs Sally Wingate 760610 BRASS CLEANERS METHODIST CHURCH Revd. Steve Bennett 01278 782306 Mrs Maryy Frost 783120 James Heappeypp y 01749 343255 COUNTY COUNCILLOR John Denbee 01934 712304 DISTRICT COUNCILLOR Bob Filmer 760760 Andrew g Gilling01934 750580 PARISH COUNCIL, Clerk Owen Cullwick 794463 Chairman Colin Townsend 760226 Planning enquiries Bella Ward (Brent() Street +) 760528 Brian Freestone (Burton() Row +) 760759 Footpathp Contact Peter Osborn 760839 PARISH HALL, Bookinggyy Secretary Jennyy Butters 760477 Bazaar Eddie Fuller 760308 Secretary Sandra Few 760451 Caretaker Richard Bream 760810 DOCTOR Dr g S L Aung760313 NHS NON-EMERGENCY URGENT MEDICAL HELPLINE 111 WRVS PRESCRIPTION SERVICE 760313 BRENT KNOLL PRIMARY SCHOOL Chris Burman 760546 TODDLERS GROUP Jane Hannah 760629 BRENT KNOLL TADPOLES PRE SCHOOL Cathyyy Hurley 769126 VILLAGE SHOP Caroline Chennells 760225 VILLAGE POST OFFICE Manshu Shah (Sub-Postmaster)() 769281 BRENT KNOLL NEWS, Production Editor Bob Filmer 760760 Distribution Elaine & Eddie Fuller 760308 POLICE NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER 101 RHYNE PROBLEMS Lower Axe Drainingg Board 789906 VILLAGE AGENT Kim Wilcox 07943 555519 NATIONAL TRUST HONORARY RANGER Ged Keele 769010 VILLAGE SOCIETIES: BRENT AMATEUR DRAMATICS (BAD)( Sarah Joyce 787493 CANCER RESEARCH CAMPAIGN t.b.c. CONSERVATIVE BRANCH Bob Filmer 760760 ECUMENICAL GROUP Revd. Margaretg Trapp 760573 GOOD COMPANIONS Mrs Joyy Collett 760458 GUIDES / BROWNIES / RAINBOWS Jane Sinnott 760987 HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY (Burnham)() Mr L Wallis 760550 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION ()(Men’s Section) Rod Southwell 760445 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION ((Women’s Section) Liz Bream 760810 SHORT MAT BOWLING CLUB Alan Castle 760424 TENNIS CLUB Alison Hillyery 01934 815407 WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Janet Southwell 760445 WOMEN’S SOCIETY Julie Baker 751229 ST MICHAELS CHURCH, BRENT KNOLL - REVD. SIMON LEWIS Tel: 01278 760496 METHODIST MINISTER: THE REVD. STEVE BENNETT Tel: 01278 782306 BAPTIST MINISTER: ()(Burnham) THE REVD. STEVE AYERS, Collegeg St. B.O.S. Tel: 783920 CATHOLIC PRIEST FATHER TOM KELLY, Burnham & Bridgwater Joint Parish Tel:01278 422703 E&OE 49 The Red Cow Large Beer Garden FRIDAY NIGHT is Function Room CURRY Night - £6.00p Traditional Food Homemade Chicken Curry Popadom & Chutney Tel: 01278 760 234 OurOur Menu is available as a Take AwAwayay

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Diary for November 2015 Page 1st Lights of Love St Christopher’s Church 3.00pm 3,8 2nd Classical Music Circle (Every Monday) Ball Copse Hall 7.00pm 31 3rd Toddlers (Every Tuesday) Methodist Schoolroom 10.30-12 noon 4 3rd Knoll Group of Ringers (Every Tuesday) St. Michael’s Church 7.30pm-9pm 3rd Royal British Legion Men’s Section AGM Red Cow 7.30pm 12 4th SORT IT+ Recycling & Green Waste Your House Early!! 4th Parish Surgery Jubilee Room 4.00-5.30pm 7,44 4th Parish Council – Public Session Jubilee Room 7.00pm 7 Parish Council – Meeting [Wednesday] Jubilee Room to follow immediately 5th Comfort Group Sommerdale Farm 2.30-4.30pm 47 5th All-Sorts Community Choir (Every Thursday) St Mary’s Church 7.30pm 5th Table Tennis Club (Every Thursday) Nuttall Room 8.00-9.30pm 44 7th Quiz Night – Royal British Legion Red Cow 7.30pm 24 8th Remembrance Service War Memorial 10.45am 3,4 9th Parish Hall Committee Meeting Jubilee Room 8.00pm 31 10th Lympsham Gardening Club – ‘Winter Garden’ Manor Hall, Lympsham 7.45pm 32 11th SORT IT+ Recycling & Rubbish Your House Early!! 11th Act of Remembrance Sanders Garden World 11.00am 15 11th Women’s Institute “John Lewis’” Parish Hall 2.30pm 23 12th Emmaus Course Methodist Schoolroom 2.30pm 14th Bazaar, Farmers’ Market & Parish Café Parish Hall 10.00am-noon12,31 14th Royal British Legion Women’s Section AGM Jubilee Room 3.00pm 12 15th DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER BRENT KNOLL NEWS 12.00 noon 50 15th Sunday Tea Party 3.00pm 39 15th Quiz Night – RSPCA Catherine’s Inn 7.30pm 39 16th Meet & Eat Nuttall Room 12.30pm 23 16th WI Craft Group Methodist Schoolroom 2.30pm 16 16th Alzheimer & Dementia Carers Group Brentcombe House 4.00pm 4 16th Whist Drive (Tennis Club) IvyClad Hall 7.00pm 16 18th SORT IT+ Recycling & Green Waste Your House Early!! 18th Good Companions – “Christmas Fayre” Parish Hall 2.30pm 16 18th Parish Council – Provisional Planning Meeting Jubilee Room 7.30pm 7 19th Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – ‘Poetry’ Woodlands Hotel 7.30pm 12 23rd Local History Society Jubilee Room 7.30pm 15 24th Berrow Conservation Group – “Wildlife” Berrow Village Hall 7.30pm 23 25th SORT IT+ Recycling & Rubbish Your House Early!! 26th Bereaved Friends Group Southcot 2.30pm 8 26th Emmaus Course Methodist Schoolroom 2.30pm 26th Women’s Society Park Farm 8.00pm 23 27th Mobile Library [NOTE Friday New day!!] Village Shop 11.30-12 noon 28th Christmas Coffee Morning Methodist Schoolroom 10.30am 4 29th Carols for Advent St Christopher’s Church 5.30pm 3 Anything missing? Make sure your events are listed in the Monthly Event Diary DEADLINE FOR THE DECEMBER 2015 ISSUE – All contributions to be received by NOON on Sunday, 15th November, to:- Bob, e-mail: [email protected] or Wascelyn, 48, Brent Street, Brent Knoll, TA9 4DT The Brent Knoll News welcomes all contributions. Views expressed are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor or represent the standpoint of the Brent Knoll News. The Editor reserves the right to edit or amend any contribution. BRENT KNOLL VILLAGE WEBSITE: www.brentknollvillage.co.uk

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