Simonsbath Festival 2012 Stival 2012

May 7 – June 23 Simonsbath Festival 2012 Simonsbath Festival 2012 May 7 – June 23

With financial support from the Exmoor National Park Partnership Fund and Exmoor Moorland Landscape Partnership

Photography: landscapes courtesy Nicola Friedrich; St Luke’s interior shots courtesy Jackie Cooper Simonsbath Festival logo illustrated by Lucy Pearn Festival programme: Edited by Victoria Thomas Designed by Maggie Lyddiatt Printed by Brightsea Press

01643 831343 [email protected] www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk When the world comes to Simonsbath in the of Exmoor When the world comes to Simonsbath in the of Exmoor Monday May 7 – 6pm Ashcombe, Simonsbath Information and booking details on page 10 Index: page Opening event – Festival opening event May Day celebrations (see facing page) Simonsbath and the Simonsbath Festival 2 Traditional May Day St Luke’s Church concerts 3 The Russian Orthodox Choir 4 celebrations Baroness Ann Mallalieu 4 Keziah Thomas 5 With a maypole for the children of Exford School to dance around, a bar and barbeque Alan Lewis All-stars 6 and dancing to live music from folk band Mervyn Mewis 6 Toyin’ with Tunes. The Hon Gilbert Greenall CBE MD 7 Toyin’ with Tunes features Chris Toyne Admission to the opening Baraka 8 on accordion and Ian Anderson on guitar event is £5 Born in the Gardens 8 and harmonica, with caller Jean Challender under 14sat FREE the gate,. to take everyone through each dance For more information please contact Indian classical music 9 before doing it to music, making it easy Marian Lloyd on 01643 831451 Information and booking form 10–11 for folk to join in. Simonsbath Sawmill 12 The band’s music is lively and promises to get feet moving Events at Simonsbath Sawmill 13 enthusiastically with its reels, jigs, hornpipes, country dance waltzes – Exmoor National Park and in fact anything and everything in country or barn dancing. The Heart of Exmoor 15 “The great thing about country dance is that the Guided walks 15 The Exmoor Society 16 dances are easy,” says Ian Anderson. Events at Exmoor Forest Inn 17 “And often you get to meet other dancers as you Closing event – progress through the dance.” Midsummer’s Day celebrations 20 Toyin’ with Tunes also perform 17th Century dance music, rags Events diary - at a glance 21 and airs to listen to, and each member plays for Morris Dance with General enquiries: Victoria Thomas Tel: 01643 831343 Email: [email protected] Wyvern Jubilee and West Somerset Morris Men. www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 1 Monday May 7 – 6pm Ashcombe, Simonsbath Information and booking details on page 10 Index: page Opening event – Festival opening event May Day celebrations (see facing page) Simonsbath and the Simonsbath Festival 2 Traditional May Day St Luke’s Church concerts 3 The Russian Orthodox Choir 4 celebrations Baroness Ann Mallalieu 4 Keziah Thomas 5 With a maypole for the children of Exford School to dance around, a bar and barbeque Alan Lewis All-stars 6 and dancing to live music from folk band Mervyn Mewis 6 Toyin’ with Tunes. The Hon Gilbert Greenall CBE MD 7 Toyin’ with Tunes features Chris Toyne Admission to the opening Baraka 8 on accordion and Ian Anderson on guitar event is £5 Born in the Gardens 8 and harmonica, with caller Jean Challender under 14sat FREE the gate,. to take everyone through each dance For more information please contact Indian classical music 9 before doing it to music, making it easy Marian Lloyd on 01643 831451 Information and booking form 10–11 for folk to join in. Simonsbath Sawmill 12 The band’s music is lively and promises to get feet moving Events at Simonsbath Sawmill 13 enthusiastically with its reels, jigs, hornpipes, country dance waltzes – Exmoor National Park and in fact anything and everything in country or barn dancing. The Heart of Exmoor 15 “The great thing about country dance is that the Guided walks 15 The Exmoor Society 16 dances are easy,” says Ian Anderson. Events at Exmoor Forest Inn 17 “And often you get to meet other dancers as you Closing event – progress through the dance.” Midsummer’s Day celebrations 20 Toyin’ with Tunes also perform 17th Century dance music, rags Events diary - at a glance 21 and airs to listen to, and each member plays for Morris Dance with General enquiries: Victoria Thomas Tel: 01643 831343 Email: [email protected] Wyvern Jubilee and West Somerset Morris Men. www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 1 Simonsbath St Luke’s Church The village of Simonsbath lies in the heart of Exmoor and its Work began on building St Luke’s in 1855, and the church was history is directly linked to the enclosure of the ancient Exmoor consecrated the following year. Forest and the pioneering Knight family. St Luke’s Church has recently been renovated to create a welcoming The Exmoor Forest refers to the ancient Royal Forest, at the and attractive performing space which is ideal for concerts and other heart of the existing National Park, an area of 20,344 acres, events. With its excellent acoustics, St Luke’s has already become a centring on Simonsbath. The Forest was an area of wild, popular venue for professional and amateur concerts. uncultivated moorland, previously owned and subsequently Today St Luke’s is still a working church with regular fortnightly leased by the Crown. morning services, to which everyone is welcome. Details of services The boundary of the Forest is 32 miles long and in many places can be found in either the parish magazine or on the church gate. the original boundary wall can be seen and followed. Each year The present incumbent Rector David Weir, who can be found at the walkers take on the Exmoor Perambulation around all 32 miles Rectory in Exford, would be happy to provide any further information. of the boundary and this year it takes place on June 23, the final The Simonsbath Festival is grateful to the Rector and the Parochial day of the Simonsbath Festival. Church Council for the use of their lovely church. John Knight, an industrialist from Worcestershire, bought the Tickets for festival events at St Luke’s Church cost £10 Exmoor Forest in 1814, hoping to tame the moor using modern (student/unemployed concessions £7.50) and are available: agricultural methods and create a viable farming community. • by phone from Robin Ashburner: 01643-831199 However, he faced enormous difficulties with the harsh climate and high landscapes and in 1841 his son Frederic took over. • by email from [email protected] Under his management more farms were built and more hedges • in person at Exford Post Office and at Exmoor House, were laid and by 1852 as many as 281 people lived on the Wheddon Cross. estate. A season ticket is also available offering entry to the six priced events Simonsbath Festival at St Luke’s Church: The Simonsbath Festival has evolved from a programme of Russian Orthodox Choir, Keziah Thomas, The Alan Lewis All-stars, concerts offered in St Luke’s Church over the last two summers. Baraka, Ricky Romain and Jon Sterckx, and Creative Cow’s It is a non-profit making community venture offering a wide range “Born in the Gardens”. of events and activities. The price of a season ticket is £45 (concessions £35).

2 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 3 Simonsbath St Luke’s Church The village of Simonsbath lies in the heart of Exmoor and its Work began on building St Luke’s in 1855, and the church was history is directly linked to the enclosure of the ancient Exmoor consecrated the following year. Forest and the pioneering Knight family. St Luke’s Church has recently been renovated to create a welcoming The Exmoor Forest refers to the ancient Royal Forest, at the and attractive performing space which is ideal for concerts and other heart of the existing National Park, an area of 20,344 acres, events. With its excellent acoustics, St Luke’s has already become a centring on Simonsbath. The Forest was an area of wild, popular venue for professional and amateur concerts. uncultivated moorland, previously owned and subsequently Today St Luke’s is still a working church with regular fortnightly leased by the Crown. morning services, to which everyone is welcome. Details of services The boundary of the Forest is 32 miles long and in many places can be found in either the parish magazine or on the church gate. the original boundary wall can be seen and followed. Each year The present incumbent Rector David Weir, who can be found at the walkers take on the Exmoor Perambulation around all 32 miles Rectory in Exford, would be happy to provide any further information. of the boundary and this year it takes place on June 23, the final The Simonsbath Festival is grateful to the Rector and the Parochial day of the Simonsbath Festival. Church Council for the use of their lovely church. John Knight, an industrialist from Worcestershire, bought the Tickets for festival events at St Luke’s Church cost £10 Exmoor Forest in 1814, hoping to tame the moor using modern (student/unemployed concessions £7.50) and are available: agricultural methods and create a viable farming community. • by phone from Robin Ashburner: 01643-831199 However, he faced enormous difficulties with the harsh climate and high landscapes and in 1841 his son Frederic took over. • by email from [email protected] Under his management more farms were built and more hedges • in person at Exford Post Office and at Exmoor House, were laid and by 1852 as many as 281 people lived on the Wheddon Cross. estate. A season ticket is also available offering entry to the six priced events Simonsbath Festival at St Luke’s Church: The Simonsbath Festival has evolved from a programme of Russian Orthodox Choir, Keziah Thomas, The Alan Lewis All-stars, concerts offered in St Luke’s Church over the last two summers. Baraka, Ricky Romain and Jon Sterckx, and Creative Cow’s It is a non-profit making community venture offering a wide range “Born in the Gardens”. of events and activities. The price of a season ticket is £45 (concessions £35).

2 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 3 St Luke’s Wednesday May 16 – 7.30pm St Luke’s St Luke’s Saturday May 19 – 7.30pm Baroness Concert in association with Minehead and West Somerset Arts Society Ann Mallalieu Keziah Thomas The award-winning concert harpist performs a varied programme including the world premiere of Variations on Rule Britannia by James Young, in honour “With Great Pleasure” of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, and works ranging from a traditional Irish An evening with Ann Mallalieu folk tune to Fauré and Saint-Saëns. Described by the New York Concert Review as ‘Stupendous…totally original Assisted by Sir Antony Acland and Charles Blanning and engaging’, British harpist Keziah Thomas enjoys a reputation of a lively and exciting concert artist. She has appeared in major venues and festivals throughout the world, including Japan, Geneva, Dublin and Amsterdam. Saturday May 12 – 7.30pm Baroness Ann Mallalieu Keziah was the winner of the 2003 London Harp Competition, the 2008 Queen’s Counsel Camac Harp Competition and the 2011 Contemporary Record Society Performing Artists Competition. President of the The Russian Orthodox Choir Countryside Alliance In addition to her performances of the standard harp repertoire, she is A concert of Russian Orthodox choral music and Russian Labour Peer dedicated to the exploration of new music and, in autumn 2010, performed folk songs by St Petersburg’s finest vocal ensemble the world première of a specially commissioned new work by Andy Scott in her debut recital at Carnegie Hall in New York. In the first part of the concert the Hermitage Ensemble sings motets reflects on a varied life in the countryside, at the criminal bar and liturgical settings from the Eastern Church written within the and in politics, illustrated by Light refreshments last 300 years. The Russian folk songs that form the second part of favourite pieces of poetry including wine will the concert display a range of emotions and, with their rhythms and and prose. be available during melodies, convey all that is characteristic of the great “Russian Soul”. the interval. The superlative Russian Orthodox Choir, The Hermitage Ensemble, Light refreshments including wine was formed in St Petersburg in 1997 to keep alive the great traditions will be available during the interval of Russian sacred music and folksong. Members of the Ensemble are chosen from amongst the finest soloists performing in St. Admission is free Petersburg’s opera, musical theatre and churches. with a retiring collection. Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval. Admission £10 (student/unemployed concessions £7.50)

4 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 5 St Luke’s Wednesday May 16 – 7.30pm St Luke’s St Luke’s Saturday May 19 – 7.30pm Baroness Concert in association with Minehead and West Somerset Arts Society Ann Mallalieu Keziah Thomas The award-winning concert harpist performs a varied programme including the world premiere of Variations on Rule Britannia by James Young, in honour “With Great Pleasure” of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, and works ranging from a traditional Irish An evening with Ann Mallalieu folk tune to Fauré and Saint-Saëns. Described by the New York Concert Review as ‘Stupendous…totally original Assisted by Sir Antony Acland and Charles Blanning and engaging’, British harpist Keziah Thomas enjoys a reputation of a lively and exciting concert artist. She has appeared in major venues and festivals throughout the world, including Japan, Geneva, Dublin and Amsterdam. Saturday May 12 – 7.30pm Baroness Ann Mallalieu Keziah was the winner of the 2003 London Harp Competition, the 2008 Queen’s Counsel Camac Harp Competition and the 2011 Contemporary Record Society Performing Artists Competition. President of the The Russian Orthodox Choir Countryside Alliance In addition to her performances of the standard harp repertoire, she is A concert of Russian Orthodox choral music and Russian Labour Peer dedicated to the exploration of new music and, in autumn 2010, performed folk songs by St Petersburg’s finest vocal ensemble the world première of a specially commissioned new work by Andy Scott in her debut recital at Carnegie Hall in New York. In the first part of the concert the Hermitage Ensemble sings motets reflects on a varied life in the countryside, at the criminal bar and liturgical settings from the Eastern Church written within the and in politics, illustrated by Light refreshments last 300 years. The Russian folk songs that form the second part of favourite pieces of poetry including wine will the concert display a range of emotions and, with their rhythms and and prose. be available during melodies, convey all that is characteristic of the great “Russian Soul”. the interval. The superlative Russian Orthodox Choir, The Hermitage Ensemble, Light refreshments including wine was formed in St Petersburg in 1997 to keep alive the great traditions will be available during the interval of Russian sacred music and folksong. Members of the Ensemble are chosen from amongst the finest soloists performing in St. Admission is free Petersburg’s opera, musical theatre and churches. with a retiring collection. Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval. Admission £10 (student/unemployed concessions £7.50)

4 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 5 Sunday June 3 – 6pm St Luke’s Wednesday June 6 – 7.30pm St Luke’s Mervyn Mewis The Hon Gilbert Greenall A concert of music performed on his own CBE MD handcrafted instruments With the emphasis on natural shape, texture and form and applying traditional handcrafted skills, Mervyn Mewis’s work includes contemporary “Failing to win the peace, individual and bespoke furniture and musical instruments. Training in City and Guilds woodwork and at West Dean in Sussex provided International Development and the background in chair making and creating musical instruments, and he now works full time making all manner of timber objects, from green-oak gates to hurdy-gurdies and most things in between. Foreign Policy since 1989” Admission is FREE, with a retiring collection. A talk by Dr Gilbert Greenall, who looks back at the two decades since the end of the Cold War. The euphoria of those moments when the wall came down gave hope to a generation. Yet the aspiration to build nations and export democracy Saturday May 26 – 7.30pm StSt Luke’sLuke’s looks tarnished now by our involvement in seven armed conflicts. As we start to disengage from Afghanistan what will be our legacy. Did we fail to win the peace? The Alan Lewis All-Stars Dr Greenall has had a 30 year career in the management of humanitarian A concert of Dixieland jazz emergencies and post conflict management. During this time he has been to Emmett's Grange 22 humanitarian emergencies and 10 conflicts. He has been an adviser to the The Alan Lewis All-Stars (ALAS) have contributed to the recent Simonsbath, Exmoor National Park, Somerset, TA24 7LD. resurgence in Dixieland jazz in North Devon. The band play at a Beautiful Georgian Country House available for holiday let British military commanders in Northern Iraq, Bosnia, East Timor, Sierra Leone, Up to 6 luxurious en-suite rooms with Exmoor views Macedonia, Baghdad and also the UN commander of UNIFIL in Southern Lebanon. wide range of events, ranging from weddings and garden fetes to Private access to 900 acres of ground including streams, jazz clubs and beer festivals. woodland and moorland In November 2010 Dr Greenall was deployed as adviser to DCOM ISAF in Stabling and paddocks for up to 12 horses. Afghanistan. He has been a member of the United Nations Disaster, Assessment ALAS play to have fun and to make money for local charities, Tennis court, games room and croquet. choosing a new cause each year. This year the band’s main charity Emmett's Grange is an oasis of friendly civilisation within a stunning and Co-ordination team since 1997. He was appointed CBE in 1993 and awarded is Multiple Sclerosis, and all their profits go to the MS Society for moorland setting. A magical place to stay and the perfect base for walking, an honorary doctorate in Medicine by the University of Bristol in 2006. projects in North Devon. riding and family holidays. Tom & Lucy Barlow: tel – 01643-831138: fax- 01643-831093 Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval. Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval Email: [email protected] Web: www.emmettsgrange.co.uk Admission is FREE, with a retiring collection. Admission £10 (student/unemployed FREE)

6 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 7 Sunday June 3 – 6pm St Luke’s Wednesday June 6 – 7.30pm St Luke’s Mervyn Mewis The Hon Gilbert Greenall A concert of music performed on his own CBE MD handcrafted instruments With the emphasis on natural shape, texture and form and applying traditional handcrafted skills, Mervyn Mewis’s work includes contemporary “Failing to win the peace, individual and bespoke furniture and musical instruments. Training in City and Guilds woodwork and at West Dean in Sussex provided International Development and the background in chair making and creating musical instruments, and he now works full time making all manner of timber objects, from green-oak gates to hurdy-gurdies and most things in between. Foreign Policy since 1989” Admission is FREE, with a retiring collection. A talk by Dr Gilbert Greenall, who looks back at the two decades since the end of the Cold War. The euphoria of those moments when the wall came down gave hope to a generation. Yet the aspiration to build nations and export democracy Saturday May 26 – 7.30pm StSt Luke’sLuke’s looks tarnished now by our involvement in seven armed conflicts. As we start to disengage from Afghanistan what will be our legacy. Did we fail to win the peace? The Alan Lewis All-Stars Dr Greenall has had a 30 year career in the management of humanitarian A concert of Dixieland jazz emergencies and post conflict management. During this time he has been to Emmett's Grange 22 humanitarian emergencies and 10 conflicts. He has been an adviser to the The Alan Lewis All-Stars (ALAS) have contributed to the recent Simonsbath, Exmoor National Park, Somerset, TA24 7LD. resurgence in Dixieland jazz in North Devon. The band play at a Beautiful Georgian Country House available for holiday let British military commanders in Northern Iraq, Bosnia, East Timor, Sierra Leone, Up to 6 luxurious en-suite rooms with Exmoor views Macedonia, Baghdad and also the UN commander of UNIFIL in Southern Lebanon. wide range of events, ranging from weddings and garden fetes to Private access to 900 acres of ground including streams, jazz clubs and beer festivals. woodland and moorland In November 2010 Dr Greenall was deployed as adviser to DCOM ISAF in Stabling and paddocks for up to 12 horses. Afghanistan. He has been a member of the United Nations Disaster, Assessment ALAS play to have fun and to make money for local charities, Tennis court, games room and croquet. choosing a new cause each year. This year the band’s main charity Emmett's Grange is an oasis of friendly civilisation within a stunning and Co-ordination team since 1997. He was appointed CBE in 1993 and awarded is Multiple Sclerosis, and all their profits go to the MS Society for moorland setting. A magical place to stay and the perfect base for walking, an honorary doctorate in Medicine by the University of Bristol in 2006. projects in North Devon. riding and family holidays. Tom & Lucy Barlow: tel – 01643-831138: fax- 01643-831093 Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval. Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval Email: [email protected] Web: www.emmettsgrange.co.uk Admission is FREE, with a retiring collection. Admission £10 (student/unemployed FREE)

6 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 7 St Luke’s Sunday June 10 – 7.30pm St Luke’s Sunday June 16 – 7.30pm St Luke’s Born in the Gardens Ricky Romain and Jon Sterckx A comedy by Peter Nichols Creative Cow Theatre Company A concert of Indian classical music Bristol, 1979. The “Iron Lady” is Prime Minister. New technology, business Ricky Romain (sitar) and Jon Sterckx (tabla) will perform two evening Ragas. morality and social patterns are changing the nation’s behaviour. Caged in their The musicians will begin with an introduction to Indian music, explaining and own world, Maud and her son pass their days happily together. This hilarious demonstrating the main principles and conventions of the music, and will be and deeply touching play reveals that change is not always for the best. happy to answer any questions about Indian music that the audience may ask. Peter Nichols (A Day in the Death of Joe Egg, Privates on Parade) was born Indian classical music has a tradition of playing ragas that are specific to a time in Bristol in 1927 and is one of Britain’s leading contemporary playwrights. of day. The fixed compositions and embellishing improvisations that Ricky and His multiple award-winning work has recently emerged from a period of criminal Jon perform create an atmosphere that takes into account both time and space Saturday June 9 – 7.30pm neglect, and is once again firmly back in favour. and also responds to the location where the music is played. Local, Tiverton-based Creative Cow is a hugely inventive and imaginative Each raga will emerge from a slow unmetered introduction, following which the touring repertory theatre company whose aim is to present to wide and diverse Wilsham Farm music is developed and explored both rhythmically and melodically, involving audiences the very best in classic and contemporary playwriting. intricate interplay between the musicians and gradually building towards a Baraka dynamic and exciting crescendo. A magical setting, in a peaceful location with Wine and authentic Indian food supplied by the Malde family available during the interval Concert of Afro-Caribbean and world music in association with Under One Sun luxury en-suite bedrooms. Admission £10 Baraka is a unique combination of musicians from Ghana, Senegal, (student/unemployed concessions £7.50) Dominica and Northern and Southern Ireland. Each musician Relax in the drawing room, swim in the pool or contributes his individual sound and style - Reggae featuring a Kora and sit in the conservatory and enjoy the wildlife. Djembe, Township with a Calypso bassline, Hilife with Blues Harmonica, Large self-catering property also available. Soca with Balafon and Flute. Baraka is fronted by Ben Baddoo, master drummer and dancer from Ghana, on percussion and balafon, delivering a potent combination of driving rhythms and subtle vocals. Paul Bradley from Northern Ireland Tel: 01598-741289 adds his unique brand of funky guitar and vocals. Royston Gage from [email protected] the Commonwealth of Dominica brings in the Caribbean influence on www.wilshamfarm.co.uk bass. Two other Irishmen complete the line up, Mark Bradley on drums delivers the rhythmic heartbeat, and Brendan Whitmore adds the £60.00 - £100.00 finishing touches with some explosive saxophone, flute and harmonica. Open all year. Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval Admission £10 Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval (student/unemployed concessions £7.50) Admission £10 (student/unemployed concessions £7.50)

8 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 9 St Luke’s Sunday June 10 – 7.30pm St Luke’s Sunday June 16 – 7.30pm St Luke’s Born in the Gardens Ricky Romain and Jon Sterckx A comedy by Peter Nichols Creative Cow Theatre Company A concert of Indian classical music Bristol, 1979. The “Iron Lady” is Prime Minister. New technology, business Ricky Romain (sitar) and Jon Sterckx (tabla) will perform two evening Ragas. morality and social patterns are changing the nation’s behaviour. Caged in their The musicians will begin with an introduction to Indian music, explaining and own world, Maud and her son pass their days happily together. This hilarious demonstrating the main principles and conventions of the music, and will be and deeply touching play reveals that change is not always for the best. happy to answer any questions about Indian music that the audience may ask. Peter Nichols (A Day in the Death of Joe Egg, Privates on Parade) was born Indian classical music has a tradition of playing ragas that are specific to a time in Bristol in 1927 and is one of Britain’s leading contemporary playwrights. of day. The fixed compositions and embellishing improvisations that Ricky and His multiple award-winning work has recently emerged from a period of criminal Jon perform create an atmosphere that takes into account both time and space Saturday June 9 – 7.30pm neglect, and is once again firmly back in favour. and also responds to the location where the music is played. Local, Tiverton-based Creative Cow is a hugely inventive and imaginative Each raga will emerge from a slow unmetered introduction, following which the touring repertory theatre company whose aim is to present to wide and diverse Wilsham Farm music is developed and explored both rhythmically and melodically, involving audiences the very best in classic and contemporary playwriting. intricate interplay between the musicians and gradually building towards a Baraka dynamic and exciting crescendo. A magical setting, in a peaceful location with Wine and authentic Indian food supplied by the Malde family available during the interval Concert of Afro-Caribbean and world music in association with Under One Sun luxury en-suite bedrooms. Admission £10 Baraka is a unique combination of musicians from Ghana, Senegal, (student/unemployed concessions £7.50) Dominica and Northern and Southern Ireland. Each musician Relax in the drawing room, swim in the pool or contributes his individual sound and style - Reggae featuring a Kora and sit in the conservatory and enjoy the wildlife. Djembe, Township with a Calypso bassline, Hilife with Blues Harmonica, Large self-catering property also available. Soca with Balafon and Flute. Baraka is fronted by Ben Baddoo, master drummer and dancer from Ghana, on percussion and balafon, delivering a potent combination of driving rhythms and subtle vocals. Paul Bradley from Northern Ireland Tel: 01598-741289 adds his unique brand of funky guitar and vocals. Royston Gage from [email protected] the Commonwealth of Dominica brings in the Caribbean influence on www.wilshamfarm.co.uk bass. Two other Irishmen complete the line up, Mark Bradley on drums delivers the rhythmic heartbeat, and Brendan Whitmore adds the £60.00 - £100.00 finishing touches with some explosive saxophone, flute and harmonica. Open all year. Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval Admission £10 Light refreshments including wine will be available during the interval (student/unemployed concessions £7.50) Admission £10 (student/unemployed concessions £7.50)

8 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 9 Information and booking Events at the sawmill Booking form Admission to events at the sawmill is free. Tickets for the festival concerts in Events at St Luke’s St Luke’s Church are available: Sawmill parking and facilities • by phone from Robin Ashburner: There is no public parking or public toilet facilities at the sawmill. Visitors Event Date Price per No. of Total cost 01643 831199 are advised to use the Exmoor National Park’s Ashcombe car park which ticket tickets £ • by email from also has toilets. Parts of the sawmill are accessible to wheelchair users and [email protected] arrangements can be made to welcome people with disabilities Russian Orthodox Choir Sat May 12 £10 • in person at Exford Post Office and (ring 01398 323202 between 10.00 and 16.00 on the day). 7.30pm (£7.50) at Exmoor House, Wheddon Cross. An evening with Wed May 16 FREE A season ticket is also available offering entry Exmoor Forest Inn Baroness Ann Mallalieu 7.30pm to the six priced events at St Luke’s Church - To book for events at the Exmoor Forest Inn please telephone Keziah Thomas Sat May 19 £10 Russian Orthodox Choir, Keziah Thomas, Alan Lewis, Baraka, 01643 831341 or for more information visit the website Concert harpist 7.30pm (£7.50) Ricky Romain and Jon Sterckx, and Creative Cow’s “Born in the Gardens”. www.exmoorforestinn.co.uk. The price of a season ticket is £45 (concessions £35). Alan Lewis All-stars Sat May 26 £10 Dixieland jazz 7.30pm (FREE) Please make cheques payable to Simonsbath Festival Exmoor Society events and send with your completed booking form to: Mervyn Mewis Sun June 3 Exmoor Society walks are normally free of charge. For further information Instrument maker 6pm FREE Robin Ashburner please telephone the Exmoor Society on 01398 323335. performs on his own intruments Newland House For full details of the Exmoor Society please see the Exmoor Society Exford An evening with The Hon Wed June 6 website www.exmoorsociety.org.uk FREE Minehead Gilbert Greenall CBE MD 7.30pm Somerset TA24 7NF Baraka Sat June 9 £10 If you would like us to send you your tickets in advance, please enclose a Exmoor National Park and Afro-Caribbean and world music 7.30pm (£7.50) stamped, addressed envelope with your cheque, otherwise your tickets will be available to pick up on the night. Heart of Exmoor events Born in the Gardens Sun June 10 £10 To book for activities organised by the Exmoor National Park and Heart of Creative Cow Theatre Production 7.30pm (£7.50) St Luke’s parking and facilities Exmoor please contact David Rolls on 01398 322164/07875 565823. Ricky Romain and Sat June 19 £10 There are only a few parking spaces at the church itself and we prefer to Admission to the Opening and Closing Events is £5 at the gate, Jon Sterckx 7.30pm (£7.50) reserve these for visitors with limited mobility. There is some roadside parking under 14s free. For more information please contact Marian Lloyd perform Indian classical music (at owner’s risk) but the best option is to use the Exmoor National Park’s on 01643 831451. Ashcombe car park in the centre of Simonsbath which also has toilets. Please make cheques payable For general enquiries please contact Victoria Thomas on 01643 831343 or The church is accessible to wheelchair users and has its own toilet facilities. email [email protected] to Simonsbath Festival Total £

10 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk ! 11 Information and booking Events at the sawmill Booking form Admission to events at the sawmill is free. Tickets for the festival concerts in Events at St Luke’s St Luke’s Church are available: Sawmill parking and facilities • by phone from Robin Ashburner: There is no public parking or public toilet facilities at the sawmill. Visitors Event Date Price per No. of Total cost 01643 831199 are advised to use the Exmoor National Park’s Ashcombe car park which ticket tickets £ • by email from also has toilets. Parts of the sawmill are accessible to wheelchair users and [email protected] arrangements can be made to welcome people with disabilities Russian Orthodox Choir Sat May 12 £10 • in person at Exford Post Office and (ring 01398 323202 between 10.00 and 16.00 on the day). 7.30pm (£7.50) at Exmoor House, Wheddon Cross. An evening with Wed May 16 FREE A season ticket is also available offering entry Exmoor Forest Inn Baroness Ann Mallalieu 7.30pm to the six priced events at St Luke’s Church - To book for events at the Exmoor Forest Inn please telephone Keziah Thomas Sat May 19 £10 Russian Orthodox Choir, Keziah Thomas, Alan Lewis, Baraka, 01643 831341 or for more information visit the website Concert harpist 7.30pm (£7.50) Ricky Romain and Jon Sterckx, and Creative Cow’s “Born in the Gardens”. www.exmoorforestinn.co.uk. The price of a season ticket is £45 (concessions £35). Alan Lewis All-stars Sat May 26 £10 Dixieland jazz 7.30pm (FREE) Please make cheques payable to Simonsbath Festival Exmoor Society events and send with your completed booking form to: Mervyn Mewis Sun June 3 Exmoor Society walks are normally free of charge. For further information Instrument maker 6pm FREE Robin Ashburner please telephone the Exmoor Society on 01398 323335. performs on his own intruments Newland House For full details of the Exmoor Society please see the Exmoor Society Exford An evening with The Hon Wed June 6 website www.exmoorsociety.org.uk FREE Minehead Gilbert Greenall CBE MD 7.30pm Somerset TA24 7NF Baraka Sat June 9 £10 If you would like us to send you your tickets in advance, please enclose a Exmoor National Park and Afro-Caribbean and world music 7.30pm (£7.50) stamped, addressed envelope with your cheque, otherwise your tickets will be available to pick up on the night. Heart of Exmoor events Born in the Gardens Sun June 10 £10 To book for activities organised by the Exmoor National Park and Heart of Creative Cow Theatre Production 7.30pm (£7.50) St Luke’s parking and facilities Exmoor please contact David Rolls on 01398 322164/07875 565823. Ricky Romain and Sat June 19 £10 There are only a few parking spaces at the church itself and we prefer to Admission to the Opening and Closing Events is £5 at the gate, Jon Sterckx 7.30pm (£7.50) reserve these for visitors with limited mobility. There is some roadside parking under 14s free. For more information please contact Marian Lloyd perform Indian classical music (at owner’s risk) but the best option is to use the Exmoor National Park’s on 01643 831451. Ashcombe car park in the centre of Simonsbath which also has toilets. Please make cheques payable For general enquiries please contact Victoria Thomas on 01643 831343 or The church is accessible to wheelchair users and has its own toilet facilities. email [email protected] to Simonsbath Festival Total £

10 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk ! 11 To book tickets or to keep informed by joining our mailing list Simonsbath Sawmill Title Simonsbath Sawmill will host the National Mills Weekend organised by the Mills Section of the Name Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. The sawmill will be open as part of a national celebration of the UK’s milling heritage. Address Admission to events at the sawmill is free.

Sawmill open days

Simonsbath Sawmill will be open to visitors from 10am to 4pm on: Postcode Monday May 21 Telephone Simonsbath Sawmill Monday June 4

The Simonsbath Sawmill was built for John Knight (1765–1850) Monday June 18 Email address and was refurbished for Viscount Ebrington in 1898. It was bought by Exmoor National Park Authority in 1996 and restored over 2002/03 with Heritage Lottery Funding. It ceased being To book tickets please complete the form overleaf and send it with used for regular work in 2010 and is now looked after primarily a cheque made out to Simonsbath Festival to: Robin Ashburner, Newland House, Exford, Somerset TA24 7NF by a volunteer group. It is a nationally significant building – one of very few estate sawmills with evidence of systems of To join our mailing list please just complete this form and send it to the address above or email [email protected] power and contemporary sawbenches. Visit Simonsbath Festival website at www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk

12 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 13 ! To book tickets or to keep informed by joining our mailing list Simonsbath Sawmill Title Simonsbath Sawmill will host the National Mills Weekend organised by the Mills Section of the Name Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. The sawmill will be open as part of a national celebration of the UK’s milling heritage. Address Admission to events at the sawmill is free.

Sawmill open days

Simonsbath Sawmill will be open to visitors from 10am to 4pm on: Postcode Monday May 21 Telephone Simonsbath Sawmill Monday June 4

12 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 13 ! More events at Exmoor National Park and Guided walks organised by the Heart of Exmoor Simonsbath Sawmill the Heart of Exmoor Monday May 21 – 8.30pm

Monday May 21 – 6pm Exmoor National Park covers an area of 267 sq miles “Batty about Bats” (692 sq kms) - a unique landscape of moorland, woodland, A bat spotting evening with an Exmoor National Park ranger Flower Walk valleys and farmland shaped by people and nature over in the heart of Exmoor. Meet at Simonsbath Sawmill A leisurely stroll through the species-rich, riverside meadows thousands of years. High cliffs plunge into the Bristol Channel by the sawmill. and cosy pubs and tearooms offer delicious local produce. Meet at Simonsbath Sawmill Saturday June 9 – 10am-4pm On Exmoor it is still possible to find tranquillity and peace as Saturday June 2 to Sunday June 3 well as rediscover a sense of adventure; to catch a glimpse of “Bogtastic” Traditional woodworker Mervyn Mewis (see page 6) wild red deer, be amazed by dark skies full of stars and explore An all-age activity day exploring bogs and wetlands in and around Produces individual furniture, carvings, bowls and traditional musical villages full of character. Simonsbath. Meet at Blackpitts, 2km north of Simonsbath. instruments using locally sourced and indigenous timbers harvested Last year Exmoor National Park became the first place in from woodland restoration schemes. In residence at the sawmill with To book activities organised by the Exmoor National Park Europe and only the second in the world to be awarded the an exhibition and demonstrations of his work. and Heart of Exmoor please contact David Rolls on prestigious designation of International Dark Sky Reserve. 01398 322164 (Mobile: 07875 565832) The award recognises the fact that Exmoor has some of the darkest skies in the country and also recognises that we work hard to make people aware of how important this resource is.

The Exmoor Moorland Landscape Partnership has launched a lottery-funded scheme that promotes moorland as the Heart of Exmoor.

14 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 15 More events at Exmoor National Park and Guided walks organised by the Heart of Exmoor Simonsbath Sawmill the Heart of Exmoor Monday May 21 – 8.30pm

The Exmoor Moorland Landscape Partnership has launched a lottery-funded scheme that promotes moorland as the Heart of Exmoor.

14 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 15 The Exmoor Society Exmoor Forest Inn

dedicated to the conservation, protection and enjoyment Wednesday May 16 Saturday June 16 of Exmoor National Park. It welcomes everyone who 7pm 7pm supports these purposes and wants to enjoy the special Quiz and curry Murder mystery dinner

qualities of this unique National Park. Everyone needs flags! Friday June 1 – Tuesday June 5 To book for events at the Especially in Jubilee year! During normal opening hours Exmoor Forest Inn please Guided walks organised by the Exmoor Society Beer Festival telephone 01643 831341 At Specialist Flag Services Wednesday May 16 we make traditional sewn flags 11am Unions – St George – St David Mining & Mystery at Wheal Eliza All sizes – Specials Meet at Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath Economy flags - Bunting Monday June 4 We stock a great range 10.30am of flag poles to any height. Simonsbath and its historic sawmill We can also deliver and erect Meet at Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath Specialist Flag Services Monday June 18 Newland House 10.30am Exford Walk to Pinkery Pond TA24 7NF Meet at lay-by alongside B3358 Telephone:Telephone: 01643 831343831199 2 miles east of Challacombe Mobile: 07971 832567 or 07968 734828

Exmoor Society walks are normally free of charge. For further information please telephone the Exmoor Society on 01398 323335

16 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 17 The Exmoor Society Exmoor Forest Inn

The Exmoor Society works to protect and enhance the Monday May 7 – Wednesday June 6 special qualities and diverse wild landscapes of Exmoor. Saturday June 23 6.30pm The society was formed in 1958 and is a registered charity Exhibition of work by local artists Wine tasting, with food dedicated to the conservation, protection and enjoyment Wednesday May 16 Saturday June 16 of Exmoor National Park. It welcomes everyone who 7pm 7pm supports these purposes and wants to enjoy the special Quiz and curry Murder mystery dinner qualities of this unique National Park. Everyone needs flags! Friday June 1 – Tuesday June 5 To book for events at the Especially in Jubilee year! During normal opening hours Exmoor Forest Inn please Guided walks organised by the Exmoor Society Beer Festival telephone 01643 831341 At Specialist Flag Services Wednesday May 16 we make traditional sewn flags 11am Unions – St George – St David Mining & Mystery at Wheal Eliza All sizes – Specials Meet at Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath Economy flags - Bunting Monday June 4 We stock a great range 10.30am of flag poles to any height. Simonsbath and its historic sawmill We can also deliver and erect Meet at Ashcombe car park, Simonsbath Specialist Flag Services Monday June 18 Newland House 10.30am Exford Walk to Pinkery Pond TA24 7NF Meet at lay-by alongside B3358 Telephone:Telephone: 01643 831343831199 2 miles east of Challacombe Mobile: 07971 832567 or 07968 734828

Exmoor Society walks are normally free of charge. For further information please telephone the Exmoor Society on 01398 323335

16 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 17 More at St Luke’s Exhibition of royal flags and standards

The Royal Standard for use in England, Wales HRH The Prince of Wales and Northern Ireland in Wales

During the weeks of the Simonsbath Festival there will be a display of Court Farm Holiday Cottages, Exford royal flags and standards at St Luke’s Church to celebrate the Queen’s Why not combine your visit to the Simonsbath Festival with a Diamond Jubilee. The exhibition will display flags of many members of break in one of the most unspoilt parts of the UK. Court Farm is the royal family past and present, explaining how each standard is different a 10 minute drive from Simonsbath and is ideal for walkers, for each member of the royal family while still using the same arms. riders, cyclists, dogs and their owners and anyone who wants to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the English countryside. A selection of military flags will also be on display, as well as the flags of Heating, electricity and bed-linen are included in the price. All cottages have wood burning stoves and central heating, are some of the royal families of other nations. well-equipped and have wifi. Two 2-bedroom cottages sleeping up to 4 adults and a 1-bedroom cottage sleeping two adults are all Except when concerts are being held, admission to the exhibition is free, are dog-friendly: we will even look after your dog while you attend but a contribution to the collection box would be appreciated. the festival. Excellent pubs and shops in Exford are less than a 10 minute walk: the beaches Music-making at St Luke’s doesn’t end with the line-up of concerts already of North Devon are just a 40 listed, and on Sunday June 17 at 6pm a quartet led by local musician minute drive. Whether you are seeking an active or relaxing Barbara Pears will perform a concert of chamber music. break you can be assured of a warm welcome at Court Farm. Students from Trinity College London are also set to perform at St Luke’s. Please visit the festival website for further details.

www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 19 More at St Luke’s Exhibition of royal flags and standards

The Royal Standard for use in England, Wales HRH The Prince of Wales and Northern Ireland in Wales

www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk 19

Date Time Event Venue Saturday June 23 – 7.30pm Ashcombe, Simonsbath Mon May 7 6.00pm Opening Event - a traditional May Day celebration Ashcombe events diary at a glance Sat May 12 – All day National Mills Weekend organised by the Mills Section Simonsbath Sawmill Festival closing event Sun May 13 of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. Admission to the closing event is Sat May 12 7.30pm Russian Orthodox Choir from the Hermitage, St Petersburg St Luke’s Traditional Midsummer’s Day celebrations £5 at the gate, under 14s FREE. with a bar and barbeque and dancing to live music from folk band For more information please contact Wed May 16 11am Mining and mystery at Wheal Eliza - an Exmoor Society walk Ashcombe The Quantock Quarenders and featuring the West Somerset Morris Men. Marian Lloyd on 01643 831451. Wed May 16 7pm Quiz and curry Exmoor Forest Inn the gate, under 14s FREE. Wed May 16 7.30pm Talk by Baroness Ann Mallalieu St Luke’s 7.30pm Keziah Thomas – Harpist The Quantock Quarenders take their name from their locality, Sat May 19 (In association with Minehead and West Somerset Arts Society) St Luke’s the Quantock Hills, and the four old apples who play the music. Mon May 21 10am–4pm Sawmill open day Simonsbath Sawmill A quarender is a 15th Century Somerset apple. Mon May 21 6pm Flower walk through the meadows by the sawmill Simonsbath Sawmill The Quarenders were formed in 1992 and play English, Mon May 21 8.30pm “Batty about Bats” - a bat spotting evening Simonsbath Sawmill Scottish, Irish, Welsh and American dance music, including the root traditional music from the Sat May 26 7.30pm Alan Lewis All Stars Dixieland Jazz Band St Luke’s 17th Century. They play fiddles, British chromatic Fri–Tues June 1–5 Opening hours Beer Festival Exmoor Forest Inn accordion, piano, recorder, guitar and concertina. Sat/Sun June 2/3 10am–4pm Instrument maker Mervyn Mewis - exhibition and demonstration Simonsbath Sawmill The band is generally to be found at social events Sun June 3 6pm Instrument maker Mervyn Mewis - concert (on his own instruments) St Luke’s such as weddings, festivals and barn dances Mon June 4 10am–4pm Sawmill open day Simonsbath Sawmill with a caller or leader to stir even the most Mon June 4 10.30am–12pm Simonsbath and historic sawmill - an Exmoor Society walk Ashcombe reluctant dancer into action. Wed June 6 6.30pm Wine tasting and food Exmoor Forest Inn The West Somerset Morris Men have been Wed June 6 7.30pm Talk by The Hon Gilbert Greenall CBE MD St Luke’s around since 1965 and joined the National 10am–4pm “Bogtastic” - an all-age activity day exploring bogs and wetlands Meet Blackpitts Organisation or Morris Ring in 1969. Sat June 9 The side has about 15 active members Sat June 9 7.30pm Baraka - Afro-Caribbean and world music (In association with Under One Sun) St Luke’s led by a Squire, Reg Gutteridge, with Sun June 10 7:30pm “Born in the Gardens”, a comedy by Peter Nichols St Luke’s Assistant Squire, Ray Hunt. Sat June 16 7.30pm Ricky Romain and Jon Sterckx – Indian classical music St Luke’s Sat June 16 7pm Murder mystery dinner Exmoor Forest Inn Mon June 18 10am-4pm Sawmill open day Simonsbath Sawmill Mon June 18 10.30am-1pm Walk to Pinkery Pond - an Exmoor Society walk Lay-by alongside B3358, 2 miles east Challacombe Sat June 23 7.30pm Closing Event - a traditional Midsummer’s Day celebration Ashcombe 20 Simonsbath Festival May 7 – June 23 21

With financial support from the Exmoor National Park Partnership Fund and Exmoor Moorland Landscape Partnership

01643 831343 [email protected] www.simonsbathfestival.co.uk When the world comes to Simonsbath in the of Exmoor When the world comes to Simonsbath in the of Exmoor