November 2016 at 7.30 Pm in the Church Room

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Travellers Rest Stone, East Pennard (on the A37) 01749 860069 Higher Farm, Sutton, Nr Ditcheat, Shepton Mallet, Somerset OPEN ALL DAY BA4 6QF from 12.00 noon Opening hours Mon-Sat: 7.30am to 6.30pm Traditional pub food Tea / Coffee For Sunday Roast Tool Hire Quiz Nights/Skittles/Pool/Darts & B & B en-suite rooms Repairs.

Tel 01749 860199: Mobile www.travellersrest.org.uk 07771632221 How To Find Us Turn off the A371 Castle Cary to Shepton Mallet road, between Moff Motors and The Brook House Inn, and then take the first turning left to Sutton. Follow this road until you see our signs on the right, and then turn right. Hope to see you soon!

Letter from the editors

This Month Confusing etymology this month. November - from the

Advertiser Index 58 Latin novem (nine), made perfect sense when the year Alhampton News 5 had only 10 months but the Romans slotted in an extra Audrey Kemp 41 couple, in memory of Julius and Augustus Caesar Badminton 8 Big Screen 12 (July/August), and ruined it. Book Group 53 Church Services 30 Church Ways 11 Continuing the theme of memorials in this centenary D/P Singers 23 year, there will Datesbe a Remembrance for your Diary service at Ditcheat Diary Dates 4 on 11th, one at East Pennard on the 13th and one for Directory 56 Ditcheat Ch. Rota 54 serviceman Walter Higgins, on the 19th (p49). In less

Ditcheat PC 24 sombre mood, take a look through the ‘Dates for your Ditcheat School 6 Diary’ to fill your calendar. If you want an event to E.P. BR Legion 48 Is there an event that should be listed here? Please let EP Church Room 50 appear in this section then let Tim have the details EP Rotas 55 [email protected] know otherwise it’s unlikely to ([email protected]) and we’ll do our best to Folk Dancing 14 appear here. Fossway Garden Club 8 include everything. Gardening 35 Harvest Supper 46 Mothers' Union 7 Thanks to Daphne for our current cover. October’s Natural World 36 photo, to answer queries received, was of the Folly on Pylle Lunch 47 Pylle News 45 Ditcheat Hill, taken in the wee small hours using a time Pylle Pageaant DVD 45 lapse technique which provided the ‘shooting stars’ - as Rector's Note 31 Refugee Crisis 27 close as the intrepid photographer got to a glimpse of Rondezvous 20 the promised Perseid shower. If anyone has a seasonal Spectra Music 23 Theatre Trips 38 scene for the next issue, we’d love to hear from you. U3A 41 Village Lunch 38 Wishing you all very well for the coming month Wildlife Group 17 Margy Cockburn Tim Sanders www.fossetrinitynews.co.uk

The Fosse Trinity News is a community magazine. It is financed by advertising and donations. It is delivered FREE to every household in Ditcheat, Alhampton, East Pennard and Pylle. We welcome any contribution from anyone in the community of any age! The editors reserve the right to edit. Copyright of all photographs published remains with the originator unless specified otherwise.

th Send copy by 15 of each month to [email protected] Please note, the next issue is a joint December/January one. For enquiries about advertising in the magazine, please contact John 01749 860457 or email [email protected] Closing date 10th of each month

Cover picture: Mill Lane, Alhampton © Daphne Osmond 3

Dates for your Diary

Every Week Pilates (9.00) Diana 860224 Tai Chi for Health (10.30) Richard 880308 Mon Clubbercise Fitness (6.30) Kylie 07707 778948 Ditcheat Badminton Club (8.30) James 860355 Ditcheat and Pylle Singers (7.00) Di 07831 289945 Tue Art Group – Fortnightly (10.00) Liz & Stewart 860755 Ditcheat Badminton Club (2.00) Gaye 860081 Wed Ditcheat Short Mat Bowls (7.00) Martin 860780 Ditcheat and Pylle Singers (7.00) Di 07831 289945 Thu Keep Fit (9.15) Diana 860224 Fri Pilates (9.15) Mo 07815 748518

October Camelot U3A: Great Wall of China, Page 25, Fri 28th 2.30pm Mike A. Spencer October issue Sun 30th 2.00am CLOCKS FALL BACK ONE HOUR

November The Alhamptonians, Louisa 860252 Thur 3rd 8.15pm The Alhampton Inn Gardening Club, Pylle Village Hall: Barbara 860438 Tue 8th 7.30pm Planning, Planting and Pruning a Cider Orchard Fri 11th 7.30pm Country Dancing – Jubilee Hall Ama 762911 Remembrance Services: Sun 13th 11.50am East Pennard & Ditcheat Wed 16th 12.30pm Ditcheat School Community Meal School 860329 Ditcheat Big Screen Thur 17th 7.30pm Peter 860081 "The Man Who Knew Infinity (PG) " Remembrance Service for Walter Higgins Sat 19th 11.45am Page 49 Ditcheat Church Camelot U3A: The Kingfisher, Fri 25th 2.30pm Page 41 David Boag Tue 29th 12.30 Ditcheat Village Lunch – Jubilee Hall Jessica 860205

December

Thur 1st 7.30pm Rendezvous, Christmas Bingo – Jubilee Hall Eleanor 860337 Ditcheat and Pylle Singers: Hamish 838757 Sat 3rd 7.30pm A Festive Choral Concert – Jubilee Hall Page 23 Gardening Club Christmas Meal, Tue 13th 7-7.30pm Barbara 860438 Cross Keys, Lydford Page 8 Ditcheat Christmas Village Lunch – Thu 15th 12.30 Jessica 860205 Jubilee Hall

Alhampton News

As I write this I am looking at a calendar and contemplating a busy couple of months with fireworks, carnivals, and the preparations for Christmas, coming round all too quickly. Every year I fantasise about being one of those people who are organised to the nth degree. But then, part of the fun is the last minute flurry.

Looking much further ahead I am a bit organised as we have a provisional date for the Alhampton fete which returns again in 2017 with the dog show and the railway. Keep Saturday 1st July free if you can – it is sure to clash with something but whichever day we choose will do that. At least if there is nothing on in the villages themselves we will be doing well. Although there is a core of helpers we really could do with more help so that no one person has to do too much. If you think you could give us a hand in any way, whether large or small, please let me know and we will be very grateful. You could take over a stall, help someone else, run a game or whatever you feel suits you.

How good to see the pub flourishing and doing food again. Very good reports and my granddaughter thinks that Macaroni Cheese on the children’s menu is an inspired choice – she can’t wait to try it. Start thinking about your Christmas meals – if the standard is the same (and why shouldn’t it be?) – they will be excellent. Of course, they now have their upstairs room so can accommodate more people.

The Alhamptonians meet on 3rd November (as usual, the first Thursday) from about 8.15. Last month we combined the evening with celebrating a significant birthday with Chrys Henning – congratulations to her. If you have any news, anniversaries etc. you would like to tell me about please let me know – it will save me waffling too much! Louisa on 860252 or [email protected]

Ditcheat School News

The year 6 children at Ditcheat School really enjoyed improving their cycle skills last month. They spent two days in the October sunshine cycling around the village. At the end of two days training all the children had grown in confidence and felt ready to brave the Somerset roads. Thank you to all those motorists who carefully navigated round the children.

The October meeting of St. Dunstan's and District Mothers' Union was held on Thursday 13th October, 2.30pm. at Baltonsborough Church Room. Following Opening Prayers, several members were presented with long service certificates. A short business session was held before the guest speaker, Mrs. Margaret Harris, was introduced.

Margaret and her husband spend every winter in India, when the weather is usually very hot. She spoke of their many visits there, staying in South Goa, which still reflects Portuguese influence with some houses painted in blue and white. The beaches are very beautiful and fishing boats go from Goa daily to catch fish. Margaret has watched lorries collect the fish and take them away to be sold. Railways built by the British extend all over India. When there are services in the Churches, they are absolutely packed.

Margaret has driven many miles in India visiting country areas, towns and cities, seeing enormous forts, which are built on hillsides, tea plantations, jungles, coastal plains and a desert and she has ridden on a camel. She went with her husband early one morning to see the sun rise over the Taj Mahal in Agra, one of India's most famous sights. Originally a tomb built in the 17th century by an Emperor in memory of his wife, it is built on a platform high above the Jamna River.

We were told of many interesting customs Margaret has experienced in India including one of the main festivals, Diwali, which signals the start of the new year in the Indian calendar. Everyone lights lamps in their homes during Diwali, so it is also called the 'festival of lights'.

Cows are seen as sacred in India, nobody eats beef and most people are vegetarians. They have lots of spices and each region of India produces different kinds of food.

Women in India wear saris, and men wear dhotis. Both are long pieces of cloth draped around the body in a certain way.

Margaret was thanked for giving an informative talk on India, she answered questions and talked informally with members while light refreshments were served.

Our next meeting is at Baltonsborough Church Room, 2.30pm. on November 10th, when 'Faith and Policy' representative, Mrs. Karen Yerbury, will be the guest speaker. Jill Done Mothers’ Union Advent meditation

On Wednesday, 14th December, the Mothers’ Union will be meeting in the Church Room at St Mary’s Church, Croscombe from 10.30am to 1pm for an Advent Meditation including coffee and Christmas nibbles. This will be the first Christmas for our newly-formed Shepton Mallet Deanery Mothers’ Union so please come and celebrate with us! All are warmly invited to attend whether you are a member of the Mothers’ Union or not.

Anyone For Badminton?

Ditcheat Badminton Club welcomes new players - experienced or beginner adults of all ages. Jubilee Hall, Ditcheat:

Mondays 8.30 p.m. - 10.00 p.m. (contact James on 860355)

Wednesdays 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. (contact Gaye 860081)

Fossway Garden Club Christmas Meal

The Fossway Garden Club Christmas meal will be held on 13th December 7 for 7.30pm at the Cross Keys, Lydford. Please contact Barbara Cary (860438) by 5th November with a £10 deposit if you would like to go.

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STABLE COMPUTERS Supply of New Computers and Accessories PC and Internet Problems Solved Broadband and Router Installation Virus and Spyware Removal For Help & Advice Telephone Daren on 01963 441229

Houses, Extensions, Garages & Roofs 01749 860632 / 07990 581936 [email protected] www.williamlatta.co.uk 10

The Church Ways

From the church records of the 1770’s, the church wardens - the “Gentlemen of the Vestry” - were discussing Church Ways and the means by which parishioners from over the Alham, and out by the Fosse Way, could get to church. They decided that some of the Church Ways should be paved.

Jim Dando, Alf Brummel, Andrew Nicholls and Charles Evans have lifted and re- laid the ancient paving slabs along the Church way that connects Ditcheat with Alhampton.

During the last two years, a team of four volunteers: Alf Brummel, Andrew Nicholls, Charles Evans and Jim Dando, have lifted and re-laid the 1770 paving slabs along the Church way from the orchard, at the end of the paved path starting in Smith’s Lane, to Highbridge House by the Alham. As well as re- laying the paving stones, the bridge over the stream by Tunlake was rebuilt and a new kissing gate installed. The work was funded by Ditcheat Parish Council.

PHILIP SAUNDERS PRIVATE HIRE DRIVER Based in Ditcheat Airports and Long Distance Trips Special Nights Out Travel in Comfort Reliable Prompt Very Competitive Rates Tel: 07855 588128 or 07774 234858

Mike Doyle Home Maintenance

All types of property maintenance undertaken including:

 Painting and Decorating  Kitchen and Bathroom Tiling  Wood/Laminate Floor Laying  Wooden Decking  Fencing  Patio Laying  Insurance Quotes/Work Undertaken

01749 860356 07876421255 e-mail:[email protected]

Thomas Kenrick Re- pointing

Re-Pointing Specialist. Building Conservation. Stone Masonry. 01749 831568 / 07746 218062 www.Repointing Somerset.co.uk

Ditcheat Folk Dance Club

olk D ancing F in the Jubilee Hall Caller Peter Bolton with Rough Round the Edges

Friday 11th November 7.30 – 9.30 Entrance £4 includes light refreshments

For more details contact Ama 01749 672911

W.J.TROTMAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS (incorporating Oswald Clarke Funeral Directors of Bruton) Ashdene, Cranmore, Shepton Mallet Somerset BA4 4QQ Telephone: 01749 880271

A family run business for over four generations. Private Chapel of Rest Pre-Paid Funeral Plans Available

Alison Bower

Pianist/Keyboard Player Music tuition in the comfort of your own home. Music for all occasions Tel 01749 831250 07748 302533 Alisonpianist.co.uk

~ All Plumbing work carried out ~ Complete bathroom and kitchen installations ~ Home improvements Free Quotations No VAT Tel: 07884434625 01963 441099

The Wildlife Group Update

Fungi Foray - 15th October Les Cloutman was a very knowledgeable, and enthusiastic, leader of the group. The Mendip Hills were very important mining centres for the Romans for lead and silver, and the deep "rakes" and nearby spoil hills can be seen all over the area. ‘Perfidious Albion’ may have been a significant contributor to the downfall of the Roman Empire because lead vessels were used by the Emperors to ship acidic food stuffs in, think Nero! The area also has tumuli which probably date from around 2,000 BC.

Les pointed out that fungi are very important to the ecosystem as they are often organs of decay, helping to recycle nutrients and break down fibre. They can also be beneficial to plants and have a symbiotic relationship in the roots of some plants, giving some protection from attack from undesirable fungi, such as Honey Fungus and aid the uptake of nutrients, getting in return the energy from carbohydrates produced by the host. These fungi are called microrhiza, I have seen the benefit first hand on a nursery I used to look after, with up to three times better growth. Incidentally, as gardeners, you can buy these beneficial fungi and add them to the soil of trees and shrubs you are planting out.

The first specimen we saw was a gilled fungus, the Sulphur Tuft. Although fungi usually have gills on which their spores form, they can also have pores like the Bay Boletus and the bracket fungus we saw growing from the side of a tree, and the peculiar Candle Snuff Fungus, small and antler like in shape had spores on the outside of the "antlers". Common Puffballs have spores on the inside and they get released in puffs, hence the name.

Some of us love to find fungi to eat. Les was quick to say he wouldn't suggest which ones were edible because if the identification is wrong, the least you can get is a tummy upset, moving onto organ failure (liver, Kidney that sort of thing!) or death. A saying in foraging circles is ‘You can eat any fungi, it’s just that some you can only eat once’.... having said that the Bay Boletus and the Amethyst Deceiver we found, are edible. In our collection there were two fungi with veils, the Fly Agaric (see opposite) a member of the, usually,

17 very to deadly poisonous Amanita group, and a Parasol Mushroom. They are often good to eat, depending on the species. (We didn't get down to the species on that one).

Luminescence is another feature of some fungi. We were lucky enough to see a Beech tree starting to be adorned with the Porcelain Fungus. These pretty white translucent fungi are on the branches and in the dark would look just like fairy lights in the trees.

We drew the Foray to a close just as the weather broke, and thanked Les for sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with us. Perfect timing.

Work party in the School We tidied the wildlife area, not too much, so that creatures have winter cover.

Photo Competition What fungi is this? Answers by email or phone to Bridget before 10th of November.

Graeme's photo in the Oct. issue was of a Bee Orchid. Congratulations

to Louise Guinness who knows her Orchids. Contact information: Bridget Wadey: email:[email protected] or phone: 01749 860240  You can follow our activities by: joining our emailing list; contact Bridget see above,  through the FTN news (www.fossetrinitynews.co.uk), there is usually a monthly update on the Wildlife group  or www.ditcheatchurch.co.uk, this site publishes our meetings and activities as they happen. The Wildlife Group has its own tag

DITCHEAT CHURCH CHRISTMAS BINGO THURSDAY 1ST DECEMBER DOORS OPEN 6.30PM EYES DOWN 7PM LOTS OF WONDERFUL PRIZES

JeremyDodd Holistic Therapist GardeningServices

Public Liability Insurance Mary Rynn I.T.E.C. I.I.H.H.T. Chainsaw Certificated Fully Qualified & Insured Mobile Therapist Garden Maintenance Advanced Reflexology Tree Care Swedish Massage Indian Head Massage Hedge Cutting Pregnancy Massage Patios jet washed

Tel: 01749 860774 01749 860693 Mobile: 07881 484086 Email. [email protected] Established 2000

Clothing and Lifestyle Emporium…ladies clothing, stunning jewelry, home accessories, gifts, and locally made Christmas products

POP UP Shop

Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm From Saturday 8th November until Sunday 21 December At D.R. Carpets Showroom 1, Evercreech Junction BA4 6NA (just on the A371 near The Natterjack Pub) Plenty of Free Parking

Or email [email protected] for more information or for a private shopping appointment in Ditcheat anytime.

Yenstone Walling and Paving

Free quotations Professional and friendly service Certified Dry Stone Waller DSWA member CIS / CSCS registered Dry Stone Walling and Paving All types of stone walling Small and large jobs undertaken Landscaping / groundworks and site clearance undertaken

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spectra musica in Somerton

Spectra Musica is so pleased to be returning to the beautiful church of St.Michael and All Angels in the heart of Somerton. Music at St.Michael’s is presenting its concert on Saturday 19th November at 7.30 pm. The group’s musical director, Peter Leech, has arranged another intriguing collection of very varied music which includes works by Fauré, Holst and Gershwin, Appalachian–based spiritual songs from the award winning film ‘Cold Mountain’, and a lively selection from the musical ‘Guys and Dolls’. Concert pianist Anita D’Attellis will be featuring as usual, and also accompanying the group. Tickets are £10 from 01963 350160 or 01458 270096 or on the door. For more information go to www.spectramusica.co.uk.

Ditcheat and Pylle Singers present

A Festive Choral Concert In support of local community organisations

Saturday 3rd December 7.30pm Doors open 7pm Ditcheat Jubilee Hall BA4 6RB

Ticket price £12 (including food; dietary requests with ticket order) Please bring your own drinks Raffle

Tickets available only in advance from: Hamish Miln 01749 838757 [email protected]

Précis of the draft minutes from the Parish Council (PC) meeting held on the 22nd September 2016. PRESENT: Chairperson – Councillor Evans (CE); Councillors Clark (HC), Harrison (HH), Dando (JD), Clifford (SC), Hutton (RH), Sage (AS) and Hughes (LH). IN ATTENDANCE: Miss P Griffiths – Clerk to the Council. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION – None. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – Apologies for absence from Councillor Travis were received and approved. District Councillor and PCSO Dury had also sent their apologies for absence. CODE OF CONDUCT – Declarations of interest and dispensations. CE declared an interest in Item 149/16 c) 2) and 3) as recipient of the payment. HH declared an interest in Item 151/16 as chairperson of the Parish Plan Steering Group (PPSG). COUNTY AND/OR DISTRICT COUNCILLORS REPORTS - CE read out the report on behalf of District Councillor Greenhalgh: The new management structure continues to be implemented with an impact on new initiatives but the following points are worth mentioning:  The 5 councils’ partnership is up and running with, from Mendip, Procurement and Land Charges now under the new management arrangement. In January 2017 Licensing, HR and Payroll will transfer across.  The devolution bid is progressing slowly and we are waiting for confirmation that this process will be maintained by the new Conservative leadership.  Finance. MDC expects to run a small surplus with no further savings required this year and has a detailed financial plan to take it through to 2020.  Plans to move Shepton Mallet library to the Hub are now well advanced and the move is expected to be complete by the end of the first quarter of 2017. SC gave a further update indicating the move of the library to the Hub was now more likely to be September/October 2017. REPORT FROM AVON & SOMERSET CONSTABULARY- CE read out the report on behalf of PCSO Dury. 30/07/16 at 12:49 – Report of a broken down vehicle on Wraxall Hill – Police attend, vehicle moved. 24/08/16 at 06:43 – Report of a vehicle abandoned at the bottom of Wraxall Hill – Police attend, vehicle moved. MINUTES - The minutes of the meeting held on 11th August 2016 were approved and signed as a correct record by the Chairman. MATTERS ARISING - from the meeting held on 11th August 2016:- Access onto Class 4 road on land opposite The Lodge on the A37 – The Clerk reported that the response from MDC had indicated that as the road from the A37 towards Ditcheat was a Class 4 road it would not automatically require planning permission to create a new access/egress. However, as the Clerk had reiterated the PC concern about the danger of the access so near to the junction the Enforcement Officer would have another visit to the site. Furthermore, Enforcement Officer will follow up with Building Control who are monitoring the situation. The Clerk will follow up with the Highways Department about the missing HGV sign. Purchase of chain and lock for dustbin and lid in playground – it was decided not to purchase a new lock and chain.

Website – The Clerk confirmed that the website was up and running. The Clerk thanked RH for the photographs he had provided however, ideally more photographs particularly of Wraxall and Alhampton would be welcome. MINUTES - The minutes of the planning meeting held on 25th August 2016 were approved and signed as a correct record by the Chairman. MATTERS ARISING - from the planning meeting held on 25th August 2016. Pound Cottage application Ref: 2016/1886/HSE – Following receipt of copies of the Land Registry documents relating to Pound Cottage it was noted that an agreement dated 30th August 1996 which was made between the owners of the property at that time and the Parish Council, relates to the moving of a bus shelter on to the land giving access by the public to the shelter. It was agreed therefore that no further action was required. PLANNING - The following planning applications were considered: Conversion of barn to form a single dwelling house (no alterations required), Long Hill Farm Ditcheat. Ref. No: 2016/2119/FUL. Outcome: ‘Recommend approval’. Application for variation of condition 2 (wording of holiday let restriction) on planning permission 049165/012, Long Hill Farm, Ditcheat. Ref. No: 2016/2120/VRC. Outcome: ‘Recommend approval’. FINANCE: It was noted that the external auditors have completed the audit of accounts for 2015/16 and have no comments. Account balance as at 31st August – The Clerk reported that the balance of all accounts at 31st August 2016 was £16,781.64; £12,370.15 in the current account with £4,411.49 in the reserve account. Approval of Parish Council payments and authority to sign cheques. 1) Tony’s Garden Services for grass cutting on 8th, 19th and 26th August 2016 - £195.00. 2) Mr C Evans for materials for the repair of the Ditcheat to Sutton footpath - £22.90; £28.62; £73.44 and £22.90 = Total of £147.86 (for aggregate and cement from Bradfords). 3) Mr C Evans for materials for the repair of the Ditcheat to Sutton footpath - £305.93 (for sand from Bateman Ltd). 4) HMRC for PAYE/NICs for period 1st July to 30th September 2016 - £165.80. 5) Miss P Griffiths for Clerk’s salary for period 1st July to 30th September 2016 - £663.50. RESOLVED: that the above expenditure is approved and the cheques signed. PLAYGROUND - It was confirmed that the PC will commission Wicksteed Leisure to install the items to repair the playground equipment which have been received. HIGHWAYS Speed limit through the Parish – CE reported that he and the Clerk had met with Chris Betty from the Highways Department. Chris Betty had provided a provisional plan showing the location of the speed limit signs but this would need to be revised following discussions with property owners and further survey work. The implementation of Chris Betty’s plan for the introduction of speed limits in Ditcheat will be subject to support from senior management at the Highways Department and the police. The introduction of a speed limit through Alhampton would not be considered as it does not meet the necessary criteria with regards to the number of 25 houses affected. The Clerk will follow up with Chris Betty to get a copy of the revised plan. Update on items/matters for repair previously reported – some work has been done on the Wraxall Road and the along by the CCRFC. New matters for report to the Highways authority – problems of visibility when turning north from Wraxall Road onto the A37 were being experienced when temporary road works signs were placed on the Wraxall Road/A37 corner. Highways to be asked to draw contractors attention to this problem.

FOOTPATHS, BRIDLEWAYS AND RIGHTS OF WAY. Update on matters previously reported: The Clerk will follow up with RY regarding the survey of the footpaths. RH suggested that once the hedges have been cut back then an effort should be made to trim back the sides of stiles before the survey of the paths is done. CE reported that he and another had attended the strimmer training and that the SCC strimmer was now available for use. If anything need doing to contact CE. CE reported that weather permitting the final stretch of the path from Smiths Lane to Alhampton should be completed by the end of the month. CLERK’S REPORT AND CORRESPONDENCE. Correspondence.  The letter from Gavin Barwell MP re Neighbourhood Planning Bill was noted. Reports/items for information – The Clerk reported that the Government consultation on proposals to extend referendum principles to all parish and town councils which had just been received was due to close on 29th October prior to the next full meeting. All Councillors should therefore send their responses to the Clerk by 14th October who will draft a PC response which will be circulated for final comment prior to submission. The final response will be reported at the next meeting. The appeal for a donation from Somerset Community Justice Partnership will be considered at the next meeting. The letter from the Somerset Libraries Service regarding the withdrawal of the mobile library stop at Wraxall will be circulated Reports from Members – SC reported that the official turning on of the CCRFC floodlights would take place on 14th October.

DATE OF THE NEXT MEETING – 3rd November 2016 AT 7.30 pm in the Church Room.

FOR INFORMATION: The agenda for all meetings is displayed on the website www.ditcheatparishcouncil.org.uk and the notice boards in the parish i.e. Alhampton, Ditcheat, and Sutton, at least 3 working days prior to the meeting.

The Refugee Crisis – How You Can Help

It is estimated that over 10,000 refugees – 1000 of whom are unaccompanied minors – live in ‘The Jungle’ in Calais and are due to be evicted just as the weather worsens.

In early September I signed up to spend six days volunteering in Calais with ‘Help Refugees’, an organization which has collaborated with the French organisation, ‘Auberge des Migrants’, to provide grassroots humanitarian aid to the refugee camps in Calais and Dunkirk, as well as Greece. I set off for Dover in a little KIA car, filled to bursting with duvets and pillows I’d collected from the RAISE (Refugee Action in Somerset East) storage warehouse in Frome, and deposited them on the other side of the channel at the ‘Help Refugees/Auberge des Migrants’ warehouse, about a 15 minute drive from the port. Since I was staying for such a short time I hadn’t expected to be of any real use to the volunteer effort, but soon found that wasn’t the case. Most of the volunteers, particularly those staying only a day or two, tend not to go into the so-called ‘Jungle’ itself, as there is plenty to do in the warehouses. You may spend the first couple of mornings, as I did, chopping butternut squash, slicing bread and assembling catering trays of salad in the Refugee Community Kitchen (RCK), and the afternoon sorting through piles of (strictly clean) socks, dry food goods and cosmetic items, or perhaps chopping wood or washing tents and tarpaulins. I even ended up organising a makeshift charity shop inside the warehouse where volunteers can buy donated clothing that isn’t appropriate for the needs of camp residents. The charities are especially grateful for volunteers who arrive with their own cars or vans, since lifts are always in short supply - ferrying volunteers or residents to and from the camp, hospital and train stations. I offered to be a 27 driver for the few days I was there and was privileged to take a father to visit his newborn daughter in hospital, took groups to visit injured friends and family members and even drove a pair of Afghan refugees down to Lille to retrieve documents which had been confiscated from them by French police in Paris the week before as they made a perilous bid for freedom by boarding a lorry crossing to the UK. (Photo: Beatrice Lily-Lorigan)

At lunchtime the wonderful RCK provides all the volunteers with delicious, wholesome stews and curries, salad, bread and biscuits and there’s a real spirit of camaraderie between volunteers which spreads a sense of hope in climate of uncertainty. The refugees to whom I was able to offer lifts were, without exception, gracious and generous; I was offered some delicious, freshly baked bread (made in the camp’s Afghan restaurant), as thanks for the favour of a five- minute car journey!

With the proposed demolition of the ‘Jungle’ looming and a cold winter ahead, the situation for these 10,000 plus people – 1,000 of whom are unaccompanied minors – is more precarious and desperate than ever. Most have nowhere to go and homelessness exposes them to abuse and exploitation. Help Refugees/Auberge des Migrants are urgently seeking donations to prepare the camp residents, as best they can, for the evacuation. They need suitcases with wheels, sleeping bags, camping equipment - especially wind-up torches, and small/medium-sized waterproof jackets. RAISE accepts donations at Mill on the Brue, Bruton, and at its storage warehouse in Frome, from where frequent trips to Calais are made.

Alternatively, you can buy new equipment online at www.leisurefayre.com, where you can click on ‘Checkout Help for Refugees’ and choose from a list of sought-after items which are then sent directly to the Calais warehouse.

Donations can be made to Help Refugees and also to Calais Kitchens, which performs the herculean task of cooking hot food for 2,500 vulnerable people each day in the ‘Jungle’ camp, and is entirely reliant on donations and kitchen- prep from volunteers. So please do donate/take a trip to Calais/make an online order and help to provide dignity and humanity to the displaced.

(Photos: Dee McCourt, except where stated) Naomi Leach

CHURCH SERVICES FOR NOVEMBER

Wednesday 2nd 7.00pm Service For All Souls, at Ditcheat

Sunday 6th 3rd Sunday before Advent 9.30am Parish Communion at Ditcheat 11.00am Morning Worship at East Pennard

Tuesday 8th 10.00am Benefice Midweek Communion at Ditcheat

Friday 11th 10.40am Act of Remembrance at Ditcheat War Memorial

Sunday 13th Remembrance Service 10.40am Act of Remembrance at East Pennard 11.00am Service of Remembrance at East Pennard

Sunday 20th Christ the King, Sunday before Advent 9.30am Book of Common Prayer Communion at Ditcheat 11.00am Parish Communion at East Pennard

Sunday 27rd Advent Sunday 9.30am Parish Communion at Alhampton 5.00pm ADVENT CAROL SERVICE, at Ditcheat

CHURCH SERVICES FOR DECEMBER

Sunday 4th 2nd Sunday of Advent 9.30am Parish Communion at Ditcheat 11.00am Morning Worship at East Pennard

Church and Community

England is particularly blessed in that most local communities have at their heart a parish church accessible to all. There is a good chance it is medieval (and Grade I listed – which is perhaps the down side for the people who have to maintain it).

In some places church and community seem to be poles apart, but that is not particularly true in Fosse Trinity. There are two projects which I wanted to focus on this month which are about the church being there for the community.

In East Pennard there has been a protracted ‘discussion’ about the Church Room and the desire of the congregation to provide more facilities within the Church building. Finally that has emerged and all credit to those who have patiently worked at a solution and gathered together a large sum of money (approaching £100,000) to do the works. A village group is taking a lease on the Room and developing it as a community resource. Meanwhile, over the next 5-6 months, the Church will have toilet and refreshment facilities at the west end – a great blessing for events, and not least for wedding guests!

At Ditcheat a rather different approach has been taken. Their Church Room is cold and drab and little used, but with great potential as a complement to the much larger Jubilee Hall. After consulting with a good number of people in the village I found there was an enthusiastic response from the community – ‘go for it!’. We think the project to renovate the building (lighting, heating and decorating the main hall, and replacing the kitchen) will cost about £18,000. So far two grants (£9,970 and £1,100), mean we can certainly do much of the work, and we are hopeful of another grant to do the kitchen.

More news as things develop. Graham Hendy

The annual ADVENT CAROL SERVICE 5.00 pm on Sunday 27th November Ditcheat Parish Church Readings and Advent Carols Pylle and Ditcheat Singers

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Gardening

There is still plenty to do in November, not least getting the borders looking good and giving apple trees a prune. It is not too late to plant tulips, broad beans and garlic. The garlic here was planted in mid-October. I am trialling the Elephant variety – probably a mistake as it is quite mild. The cloves were enormous! I had hoped to get the broad beans started, but my box of seeds obviously got watered by mistake during the summer months. All the packets were ruined and had to be thrown away.

If you haven’t already done so, it is a good time to clear the vegetable patch. Clear out old plants, weeds and any other rubbish that may be harbouring pests and diseases. Dig it over now as the frost really helps to break down clods of clay, and fork in organic matter to help improve the soil.

Net brassicas, such as kale, against pigeons. Use 15cm plastic pea and bean mesh held in place with canes.

Prune apple trees. Begin by removing any dead, diseased or crossing branches. Shorten the central shoots by a quarter, then cut side shoots back to three buds to encourage them to change into fruiting spurs. Apply grease bands to fruit trees to protect against winter moth. Spray peaches and nectarines against peach leaf curl and protect against the rain.

Tidy up the herbaceous borders. Some perennials do have attractive seed heads but many others are past their best. With the exception of penstemon, which should be cut back in the spring, chop back the stems and put on the compost heap. If anything looks diseased, burn it or take to the dump. Remove any stakes and supports that are left in the ground after you have cut back the plants. Clean up bamboo canes used in both the vegetable patch and borders and store over winter.

Tulips can still be planted in November. Late planting reduces the risk of them getting the fungal disease, tulip fire. Plant 10 – 20cms apart and three times their own depth. This rule applies to all bulb planting. If you want your bulbs to look as natural as possible it is a good idea to get a handful and just throw them on the ground. Plant where they land, but obviously separate those that might roll together.

Give the greenhouse a really good clean before bringing in plants to overwinter. Insulate with bubble wrap and install a heater if necessary. Reduce watering and feeding. Bring half-hardy fuchsias in and cut back pelargoniums and allow them to become dormant over the winter. To help prevent disease spreading, check plants once a week and remove any dead leaves or flowers. It is also

35 worth brushing the floor to collect up any material that may have fallen off the plants.

Bare root trees, roses and shrubs are available from November to March and considerably cheaper than containerised stock.

Continue to gather up fallen leaves. As mentioned last month, these can be lethal on pathways and can stifle the growth of lawns. If you are still mowing the lawn, keep the blades on high and brush off any worm casts from the lawn before mowing. Clean away any grass stuck to the bottom of the mower. An old plant label or a piece of wood makes a great tool for this job. Remember also to remove leaves and dead vegetation from ponds and pop a rubber ball into the water to prevent ice forming.

Happy gardening.

The Natural World

There have been many heroes in natural history exploration but the 18th and 19th centuries surely gave us the most romantic, with the likes of Alfred Russell Wallace who was, arguably, on the brink of completing the theory of the origin of species, only to have Charles Darwin publish before him. And there is one even more interesting explorer whom, it is claimed, more things are named after than anyone else. There are towns, rivers, mountain ranges, the ocean current that runs along the South American coast; there's a penguin, a giant squid - even the Mare Humboldtianum on the moon. Even so, most people either know very little of Alexander von Humboldt (1769-1859), who is possibly the greatest lost scientist, or have never heard of him at all. It was Humboldt who inspired Darwin to set sail on the Beagle in 1831.

Apart from a litany of other exploits, achievements and concepts, it was Humboldt who established that there is a pattern to the events of life, and that all life is intertwined. He was also one of the first to predict human-induced climate change. His story has just been published as ‘The man who invented nature’ by Andrea Wulf. The Kindle version is not expensive.

One of the hardest things for some people to digest in nature is that species rely on and, sometimes, devour other species. Fungi, whether microscopic, or living as apparently large structures, are dependent on hosts in one way or another. 36

Their close relatives, micro-sporidians, often live in the intestine of their hosts. It’s all relative. ‘Little fleas have lesser fleas upon their backs to bite them, and lesser fleas have lesser fleas, and so ad infinitum‘. I’ve quoted that before, but it is very true.

At the top of the food chain things are far more evident - where a cheetah is seen hunting down a Thompson’s gazelle. The stage before is far easier to swallow, as Thompson’s gazelles survive almost entirely on a diet of grass. That seems to be the end of the chain, until you realise that grasses thrive on decayed animal and vegetable matter, and that those were broken down by bacteria, worms and myriad other living entities which, in turn, were the food of other species; without one creature predating another, the peaceful Thompson’s gazelle could not exist. The chain is often more complicated than at first realised. In fact, it is a circle.

The Bible says that man will live for 3 score years and 10, yet scientists are now telling us that the human life span could be extended to 125, and that would be the limit. Will science eventually make advances on that too? Animals, in the wild, seldom die of old age, in fact, some naturalists will not even give the possible life span of some species, because very few, if any, ever achieve it. It is a well known fact that the majority of young in the wild, never even reach maturity. Just imagine if all frogspawn that hatched as tadpoles, became frogs. We would be totally inundated. Disease is often the cause of such outcomes, but the worst thing a disease can be, is completely effective because, if it is, it simply kills all its hosts and has nowhere else to go. Such is the case with some of our most horrific human tragedies. As abhorrent as it may seem, Ebola ran out of fuel. Through isolation, it was limited in who it could attack, and had nowhere else to go. Strength can be a weakness. Less virulent diseases simply jog along, but survive.

Over millennia species have learned to cope with predation. Like totally successful disease, totally successful predation would be disastrous for the predator. Humboldt had no idea how right his prediction would be. Man’s ability to travel the world has brought untold threats to our wildlife and now, because of a shipment of garden pots from China to Bordeaux in 2004, most of Western Europe is home to a predator 37 which prefers honey bees to anything else, and it is very, very successful. The Asian hornet (vespa velutina) has arrived in Britain: the first colony was found in Tetbury last month. Others have been seen just north of the Mendip Hills. At this time of year, the new queens will be looking for somewhere to hibernate, so that they can start new colonies in the spring. That is where the danger lies, as they will travel goodly distances to establish new colonies. So please look out for this creature, which despite some reports, is slightly bigger than one of our wasps, and definitely smaller than the European hornet. If you see one, let me know.

There is one criterion it faces, which could cause it enormous problems. All the new Asian hornets in Europe emanate from one queen, which means that the gene pool is seriously compromised. Stewart Gould [email protected]

VILLAGE LUNCH

The Village Lunch is held on the last Tuesday of the month in the Jubilee Hall at 12.30pm.

`xÇâ yÉÜ ELà{ aÉäxÅuxÜ Oxtail Soup Prawn Chowder Lentil & Tomato Soup ~~~~~ Selection of Puddings ~~~~~ Tea or Coffee. ∂GACC ÑxÜ ÑxÜáÉÇA If you would like to come let either Jessica Leach (860205) or Vee Lees (860542) know by the previous Wednesday, (23rd ). There will be a raffle as usual - any prizes will be welcome.

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Interment of Ashes of Audrey Kemp A short service of readings and prayers followed by an Interment of Ashes in the Churchyard, of Audrey Kemp, will be held on Wednesday, 2nd November, 12 noon at St Mary Magdalene. Audrey was our Minister in Ditcheat with Canon Farran who will be conducting the service.

Anyone who wishes to attend would be most welcome.

CAMELOT U3A Camelot U3A will hold its monthly meeting at Caryford Hall at 2.30 pm on Friday 25th November, when Mr David Boag will present “The Kingfisher”. This talk tells the story of one of our most beautiful and spectacular birds and shows every aspect of its life. The talk will be followed by tea and biscuits. All members and visitors are welcome.

A. TREVENEN PASCOE BSc. (Hons) Ost. Med. ND. OSTEOPATH 42 High Street Shepton Mallet Somerset BA4 5AS Tel. (01749) 342594 PPP/AXA and BUPA recognised

Pylle News

Harvest Supper Harvest Supper was a great success, despite being slightly lower in numbers attending this year. Many people have commented on the lovely warm community atmosphere. The food was much enjoyed, and the auction carried out with enthusiasm and amusement. Thank you to everybody who gave up their time to help make with this event happen, and for the generous donations of produce, and raffle prizes. £480.53 was raised for Pylle church and the village hall.

Working on voice overs for the Pylle Pageant DVD (Charles Evans, Vee Lees, Lynne Hughes, Stephen Tudsbery Turner,Anthony Sutcliffe, Jessica Leach and Jane Evans)

Pylle Pageant DVD The Pylle Pageant DVD is now in production and there will be showings at the Winter Warmer Lunch on Sunday 13th November, and in the Wells Town Hall on Monday 21st November at 7.30pm, courtesy of the Mendip Postcard Club. It will be possible to order DVDs on both occasions. Over a hundred photographs from the pageant have been used, a commentary has been provided and, as an added bonus, there is music specially composed by Peter James, who has put together the whole thing. The pictures used are not those that have already appeared in the book of the pageant. All in all it is a perfect record of a memorable occasion. For further details please ring 01749 830538. It is estimated that the cost of a DVD will be around £7. If you have already signed up for one don’t worry! I haven’t lost the list. 45

Church Flowers and cleaning November Jean Puddy December Helen Bushrod If the church is locked please contact the church wardens: Teresa 831419, Hilary 830538, Carolyn Fussell 830120, or Alan Cary 07896945936, to obtain a key. Pylle Dates: Sunday 13th November: Winter Warmer Lunch Wednesday 7th December: LWP Christmas lunch at Old Threshing Mill Friday 16th December: Pylle Carol Service Saturday 18th March 2017: Acoustic ballads evening and supper

Ladies Working Party - Joanna Miln 01749 838757 Only a very small group met in October for lunch at the coffee Den, and we discussed the success of the Harvest Supper and future events. Our next meeting will be on Wednesday 2nd November at 12 noon at the Coffee Den. (raffle Carolyn) The December Christmas lunch will be hosted by Joanna and Hamish Miln at The Stables in The Old Threshing Mill, Pylle at 12.30 on Wednesday 7th December. We will have a traditional Christmas lunch.

Winter Warmer Lunch Remembrance Sunday 13th November We will be holding our Remembrance Sunday lunch on Sunday 13th November in Pylle village hall. Why not come to Pylle after remembering our nation’s fallen at the church and join us for lunch? Keeping with the military tradition of ‘curry lunch’ after a church service we will be serving a choice of a mild curries, chicken casserole or vegetable casserole followed by dessert. There will be a pay bar so you can enjoy a glass of wine with your meal. Please book your tickets with Joanna Miln: [email protected] or 01749 838757

Pylle Village Hall We are delighted that the hall is in the process of being decorated. A scaffold tower has been in use, all the high areas have been painted and it looks fabulously light and airy already. Once the walls have been finished all the woodwork will be painted and then our new floor will be laid. If all goes to plan, the decoration will be finished in time for the Winter Warmer Lunch on 13th November and the floor laid shortly afterwards. We would like to thank the groups that have used the hall recently, and had to put up with the scaffold tower, for their understanding and patience. It will all be worth while when a tired old friend becomes rejuvenated and the pride of our village again.

To hire Pylle village Hall: £7.50 per hour or £6.50 per hour for more than 4 regular bookings. For more information Joanna Miln 838757

Ditcheat and Pylle Singers present a Festive Choral Concert Following the successful concert last year, Ditcheat and Pylle Singers will once again present a choral concert in The Jubilee Hall in Ditcheat on Saturday 3rd December, doors open at 7pm to start at 7.30pm. The concert this year will have a festive theme. Food will be served during the interval; please ensure you include any dietary requirements with your ticket order. Tickets will only be available in advance and numbers are limited. A flyer with detail is also in this issue of FTN. Please order tickets from Hamish Miln on 01749 838757 or email [email protected] Winter Warmer lunch

Sunday 13th November 12.30 noon – 2pm Pylle Village Hall All Welcome Adults £10, Children £5

Please book in advance with Joanna Miln 01749 838757 or [email protected]

Mild curries : chicken casserole : vegetarian casserole

All money raised will go to Pylle Village Hall

East Pennard and District RBL

Now, what do you think of the Legion motif heading our monthly article? I think it is great and we owe the FTN editor a vote of thanks for getting it sorted for us. Also, I loved the photo of the Knights last month; makes the membership seem more real. I think we could make more of an effort with photos now that the publishing has improved so much.

Having started this article on a positive theme, I’m going a bit negative now, because I’ve decided that I need help with my work for the Legion. Not only am I the branch and membership secretary, but also the welfare/case worker and doing the research for our Fallen (my idea so not really complaining). And, what isn’t obvious because it is confidential, I spend an enormous amount of time on welfare. And that’s the side I really would like somebody, eventually, to take over from me.

I have already told the Legion that I do not want to do cases outside our immediate area and they have been very helpful in that regard. But the reality is that Somerset only has a dozen or so caseworkers who are working very hard and I feel as though I am not doing my fair share. Is there anybody out there who is remotely interested in even just taking the first steps of thinking about the job? There is an excellent training system and first class back up from a very knowledgeable team within the Somerset Legion setup. Clearly, you must believe in the principle objective of the Legion, that of caring for ex-service men and women and/or their dependants. You don’t have to have a social worker background, you just have to care a little for your fellow man (or woman if you wish to be pedantic). If you would like to discuss it with me, please give me a call. I really do need some help in the not too distant future.

Moving swiftly on to our research on The Fallen. Apologies for the lack of notice about our last service for Albert Whitehead, remembered on the War Memorial at East Pennard. There were only three members of the Branch able to be there and we hadn’t been able to find any members of the family.

Albert Bertram Whitehead was born in Hembridge, East Pennard; his birth was registered sometime between July and September 1890. His Mum and Dad were Charlotte and Albert Whitehead and they had seven children, Albert Bertram being the eldest. His Dad was a carpenter and, by 1911, our Albert (as opposed to his Dad) was a farm labourer. Also, by 1911, the family had moved to Parbrook. Exactly where they lived in Parbrook is difficult to pin down. One address is The Batch, which we believe to be on Stone Lane, but the youngest children were born in Lottisham Lane, which is just round the corner. Even today,

48 there is a discrepancy between road names in Parbrook. The next thing we have discovered is that Albert joined the 1st Battalion of the Coldstream Guards as a private, with a service number of 14289. From this number we can determine that Albert joined the Guards sometime between the 5th December 1914 and the 5th January 1915. By this time the Guards had been dispatched to France as part of the British Expeditionary Force and had already been involved in several battles. By September 1916 the Guards were heavily involved in The Battle of the Somme. On the 15th September 1916 the 1st Battalion, accompanied by two other Battalions of Guards (the first time in history that three Battalions of Guards had attacked together) was in action in Picardie, Northern France, attacking German positions. Apparently, they advanced very steadily as if they were “walking down the Mall “. The losses on that day were horrendous. Of 17 Officers and 690 Other Ranks that went into battle, only 3 Officers and 221 Other Ranks survived. According to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Albert was Killed in Action on the 15th September 1916, so we must assume he was involved in this engagement and one of the 469 men who didn’t survive the day.

From the Register of Soldiers’ Effects we learned that a War Gratuity of £14.16s 4d was paid to the family in March 1917 and a further £7.10 shillings paid in September 1919. We don’t often find out that kind of information; not much for a life and the devastation caused to a family. Albert was awarded the Victory Medal and the British War Medal and these were presented to the family in 1920. Albert Bertram Whitehead is Remembered with Honour on the Thiepval Memorial in France.

Continuing with the theme of Remembrance, it is fast running up to that time of the year. This year the service on Remembrance Sunday, the 13th, will be held at East Pennard and the service on the 11th November will be at Ditcheat. We are hoping that the school in Ditcheat will be able to help us out on the Friday. Both parades will start at 11.50am. We will be holding a separate service in Ditcheat to give thanks for the life of Walter Henry Higgins who was killed on the 19th November 1916. I appreciate there are lots of “Higgins” in the local area but so far we have not managed to find a relative. If you are related to Walter in any way then please get in touch with us, we are really keen to meet up with some of the family.

Our next branch meeting will be held at Charlie’s studio on Tuesday the 1st November starting at 3pm. Jon Dickens

To commemorate the lives of our Service personnel who were lost during the historic Battle of the Somme, the Legion has created a Somme 1916 Poppy Lapel Pin which is hand-made from British shell fuses fired during the Battle of the Somme and collected from the historic front line. The red enamel in the centre of each poppy is made from a small amount of finely ground earth that was collected from Gommecourt, Hebuterne, Serre, Beaumont Hamel, Thiepval, Ovillers, La Boisselle, Fricourt and Mametz. To find out more or buy one go to: www.poppyshop.org.uk

East Pennard Church Room

The East Pennard PCC is delighted to announce the completion of a lease to enable a local village hall committee to run the Church room, and look forward to it being in active use again soon.

I would also like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by the building works which have just started in the church. This is to provide a W.C. and servery for church use, and will hopefully make a visit to the church a much more comfortable experience. The PCC would like to thank Michael Eavis for the provision of a temporary portaloo in the Churchyard, and for his generous donation towards the provision of these amenities.

November 1st is All Saints Day and the designated gift day for East Pennard church so the PCC would gratefully welcome any further donations towards the cost of these facilities. Jean Heal

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DITCHEAT BOOK GROUP Owen Sheers’ Resistance, Review by Clare West

It is 1944. Russia has fallen, and the D-Day landings have failed. The German army counter-attacks and, within a month, half of Britain is occupied. In a small remote valley in the Welsh Marches, seven farmers silently put their boots on and creep out of their homes at dead of night, without a word to their families. In the morning, all the women in the valley wake to find their husbands gone. After the initial shock, they realise that cows have to be milked and crops harvested, and they buckle down to working on their farms together, while waiting for news and hoping for the men’s return. It seems likely that the men have gone to join a network of groups trained to offer resistance to the invaders, and are hiding up in the mountains. Then, when a German patrol arrives unexpectedly in the valley, the women react to the enemy predictably at first, with anger and resentment. But soon, with no news from the outside world reaching this isolated place, a kind of equilibrium develops, as the young German soldiers help with the heavy farm work, and the women gradually come to accept their presence. This is Owen Sheers’ first novel, and it is a beautifully written re- imagining of recent history. There are other authors who have offered a different ending to WWII, but only this novel has such empathetic insights into characters’ thoughts and dilemmas. It makes you wonder how we ourselves would react in the women’s situation – would we collaborate or would we sternly offer opposition to the invaders? Would we run away and try to join the Resistance, or simply escape and hide until the invasion is over? It is all very well to be principled in peacetime, to demand patriotism and bravery of every citizen, but when individuals are faced with a powerful, armed enemy, I think it is a different matter. Sheers also gives us a wonderful evocation of the landscape and farming conditions in the 1940’s Welsh Marches. What a hard life these people were used to, especially in winter! The women, for whom the changing seasons and the myriad tasks they bring are far more important than the great military events happening beyond the valley, enjoy the challenge of running their farms. Even the German soldiers, away from the war for a while, are relieved to be in a peaceful environment, and they savour every moment. But it is a false peace, and eventually news of this semi-collaboration begins to filter out of the valley to the nearest town. The cocoon enfolding the women and the Germans is destroyed, with tragic results. The ending is inconclusive, as in most real lives. We don’t really know what happens to Sarah. I sincerely hope she outwits the enemy, finds Tom and helps the Resistance to repel the invaders. But I suppose it is more probable that she dies of exhaustion or starvation on the hills, or is captured. In any case, she has left her passive self behind in the valley; she has taken decisive action and made her own contribution, which is an admirable thing to do. 53

St Mary Magdalene Ditcheat Rotas

November Flowers Brasses Cleaning

6th Sally Atkins The Rounsevells The Evans 13th Lyn Adams The Rounsevells The Evans 20th Lyn Adams The Rounsevells Eleanor Yeoman 27th No flowers Jess Leach Eleanor Yeoman (ADVENT) Church Rooms Pat Dando

December 4th No flowers Jess Leach Vee Lees 11th No flowers Jess Leach Vee Lees 18th No flowers Jess Leach Hazel Rowland 25th Christmas Team Hazel Rowland (CHRISTMAS) Church Rooms Pat Dando

If you would like to help, please contact Vee Lees (860542) for church cleaning, Pat Dando (860448) for church room cleaning and Jess Leach for flowers.

EAST PENNARD CHURCH FLOWERS & CLEANING ROTA

November Lisa Letchford Bridget Wadey

December Monica Cock Bridget Wadey

January Ray Higgins Renata Rodd

I would like to thank Andrew & Carol Stuart for their able help over the years. Due to their change in circumstances they are retiring from the Flowers and Cleaning team.

This will leave two vacancies on the Flowers & Cleaning team if you are interested please contact Bridget Wadey: Tel: 860240

Who's Who ? FOSSE TRINITY BENEFICE Interim Priest Canon Graham Hendy 677003 Reader Jean Halford 860422 Fosse Trinity Advisory Committee Jean Heal 860452 Fosse Trinity News Editor Margy Cockburn 860611 Fosse Trinity News Advertising John Greenhalgh 860457 Fosse Trinity News Distribution Lesley Dunn 860746 Anthony Sutcliffe 860541 Prayer Pyramid Co-ordinator { Eleanor Yeoman 860337 Mothers' Union Yvonne Stokes 01458 851480 Safeguarding Person Bridget Wadey 860240 Children's Society Jo Curtis 860898

ALHAMPTON Chapel Warden Jo Curtis 860898 Church Council Secretary Louisa Oborne 860252 Neighbourhood Watch Lynne Hughes 860654 FTN Correspondent Louisa Oborne 860252

EAST PENNARD Bells - Tower Captain Mervyn Buckley 01458 440180 Jean Heal 860452 Churchwarden { Susie Dearden 860502 Church Council Secretary Carol Stuart 860587 Church Room Hire Audrey Dyson 860317 Parish Council Chairman Adrian Pearse 890216 Royal British Legion Secretary Jon Dickens 01458 850241 United Charities Chairman Adrian Pearse 890216 Verger Ray Higgins 860339

PYLLE Bells - Tower Captain Joe King 890357 Hilary Tudsbery-Turner 830538 Churchwarden { Teresa Rossiter 831419 Church Council Secretary Stephen Tudsbery-Turner 830538 Ladies Working Party (Chairman) Joanna Miln 838757 FTN Correspondent Joanna Miln 838757 Village Hall hire and keys Joanna Miln 838757

Email contacts are on page 58

DITCHEAT Art Group Liz & Stewart Gould 860755 Badminton Club Secretary James Bairstow 860355 Bees – Swarms Stewart Gould 860755 Bells - Tower Captain Roger Yeoman 860304 Bells - Correspondence/Bookings Ben Look 860257 The Other Book Club Gail Dyke 860189 Church Council Secretary Louisa Oborne 860252 Church Room Hire Pat Dando 860448 Anthony Sutcliffe 860541 Churchwarden { Eleanor Yeoman 860337 Community Car Service (ADEPPTS) Joyce Marsh 860493 Conservative Party Contact Elizabeth Crossley 860245 Country Dancing Deidre Pezaro 860594 Cricket Club Nick Mann 812304 Ditcheat Big Screen / Moviola Peter Volk 860081 Ditcheat School Richard Reid 860329 Friends of Ditcheat School (FODS) Katy Bryant 860329 Ditcheat Players Chairperson Gaye Volk 860081 Fosseway Garden Club Barbara Cary 860438 Jubilee Hall Chair Linda Wyburn-Mason 860067 Jubilee Hall Hire Anne Robson 860444 Jubilee Hall Website Peter Volk 860081 Keep Fit Diana Cook 860224 Neighbourhood Watch Jim Dando 860448 Parent & Toddler Group Pippa Clapham 860329 Parish Council Chairman Charles Evans 860336 Ramblers Linda Wyburn-Mason 860067 Rendezvous Diana Cook 860224 Saturday Stitch Sally Yeoman 860304 Short Mat Bowls Martin Edgar 860780 Skittles Shirley Derby 07939198030 Village Lunch Jessica Leach 860205 Wildlife Group Bridget Wadey 860240

GENERAL Community Police Lucy Bagnowiec 101 Guy Dury 101

Please help us keep this information up-to-date. Email [email protected] with any changes.

Index of Advertisers

Accounts, Hayley Spencer 33 Jewellery, Fosse Beads 9 Art Gallery, Studio 13 15 Keep Fit, Pilates 54 Buildings, Timber Frame, W Latta 10 Manor House Inn 51 Clothing, Rose & Lyons 21 Medical, Holistic Therapy 21 Computing, Stable Computers 10 Medical, Homeopathy, Fionna Roberts 39 Curtains, covers etc, Helen Bushrod 2 Medical, Osteopath, Trevenen Pascoe 43 Decorating, Ray Ackerman 43 Motoring, Bay Motor Co. 41 Driver, Philip Saunders 13 Motoring, N E Motors 16 Electrician, Ian Lester 33 Music Tuition, Piano, Alison Bower 16 Events, Pennard House 33 Odd Jobs, Alistair Gillard 2 Events, Sparkford Hall 44 Oven cleaning, Ovencor 15 Fencing, Shepton Mallet Fencing 39 Plumber, James 16 Firewood, W Latta 8 Removals & Storage, Armishaws 40 Flowers, Margy Cockburn 10 Roofing, Mark Curtis 52 Food, Gould's Cheddar 59 Soft Furnishings, Jude Herlihy 15 Funerals, Connock 43 Solicitor, J Derbyshire, Purely Probate 21 Funerals, Trotman Funeral Directors 16 Solicitors, Bartlett, Gooding & Weelen 33 Furniture Restorer, Piers Keating 10 Stone Mason, Thomas Kenrick 13 Furniture, Joinery & Kitchen, Mark White 39 Stone Walling, Yenstone 22 Garage Doors, SDS 43 Taxi, Tony Chinnock 39 Garden Design, Jane Follis 15 Tennis coaching 44 Gardening, Gil Oldaker 8 Transport, ADEPPTS 2 Gardening, Jeremy Dodd 21 Travellers Rest, Stone 2 Gardening, Rob Carling 10 Tree Surgeon, Jody Osborne 59 Heating Services, R A Wicks 34 Tree Surgeon, M Parsons 16 Heating Services, Warm Welcome 13 Tree Surgeon, Noel Radford 59 Hire Shed 2 Food, Jon Thorner's Back Home Maintenance, Mike Doyle 13

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Who's Who ? Email addresses

Fosse Trinity News Editor [email protected] Fosse Trinity News Advertising [email protected] Fosse Trinity News Distribution [email protected]

Ditcheat Parish Council ditcheatparishcouncil.org.uk Community Police [email protected] [email protected]

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