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The Parish of Three Saints St Christopher, St Michael, Brent Knoll St Mary, BAPTISM WEDDING When do we hold baptisms? How do we book our wedding? - on the fourth or fifth Sunday of a month at - please contact our Parish Administrator in 12.15pm or 1.15pm; the Church Office, who will discuss with we normally have one family at each time, you availability of dates and times; will talk however, there may be occasions when we to you about the qualifying connection you have another child to baptise and so there have with the parish; and will take you and will be two families together; your fiancé’s details; - or at our regular worship on a Sunday - you will then be contacted by our vicar to morning at 10.00am; arrange a date to meet.

There will be exceptions due to the church CHURCH OFFICE calendar Church Road, East Brent, TA9 4HZ How do you book a baptism? E-mail: [email protected] - collect an application form the Church Phone: 01278 769 082 Office Open Tuesday & Wednesday,

10.30am-3.30pm Priest in Charge Revd. Simon Lewis The Rectory, Ash Trees, East Brent [email protected] PCC Secretary Sandra Hanmer 01934 750 076 Churchwardens Miss Frances James 760 287 Mr Mike Smith 760 691 Services for April 2015 Date Service Time Church 30th & 31st March & 1st April Iona Worship 10.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham Stations of the Cross 7.00pm St. Christopher’s Lympsham 2nd April The Upper Room 7.30pm St. Christopher’s Lympsham Maundy Thursday The Gethsemane Watch 3rd April Setting the scene: 12.00pm St. Christopher’s Lympsham Good Friday Sanhedrin Trial; Peter’s Denial 1.00pm Roman Trail Crucifixion, Death, & Burial 2.00pm At the foot of the Cross It is finished. 3.00pm 4th April Easter Vigil (with Holy 8.00pm St. Christopher’s Lympsham Holy Saturday Communion) 5th April Holy Communion - BCP 8.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham Easter Thanksgiving Eucharist 10.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham 12th April Holy Communion - BCP 8.00am St. Michael’s Brent Knoll Easter 2 Eucharist 10.00am St. Mary’s East Brent 19th April Holy Communion - BCP 8.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham Easter 3 Eucharist 10.00am St. Michael’s Brent Knoll 26th April Holy Communion - BCP 8.00am St. Mary’s East Brent Easter 4 Eucharist 10.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham Evening Prayer – Said 6.30pm St. Michael’s Brent Knoll Every Tuesday Holy Communion 2.30pm St. Mary’s East Brent Every Wednesday Holy Communion 10.00am St. Christopher’s Lympsham 4

METHODIST CHURCH (www.brentknollmethodistchurch.com) Minister Revd. Margaret Trapp I have just come back from our Mothering Sunday service and it was a real treat so see all the young people who attended. As well as being a great addition to the congregation, they also proved to be very good at distributing flowers, taking orders for teas and coffee afterwards and then helping to wash up. So a big thank you to them! A big thank you too to all those who organised, took part in and attended the Women’s World Day of Prayer held at East Brent Methodist Church back in March. It was well attended and enjoyed by all. At the time of writing, we are half was though our Lent course, led by our own Revd. Margaret, which has proved to be very thought provoking and has opened many a discussion between all who have attended. One date for your diary. We will be holding our Spring coffee morning a bit later than normal on Saturday 23rd May from 10.30am onwards. We very much look forward to seeing you there. All that is left to say is that, from all of us at Brent Knoll Methodist Church, we wish you all the joy of Easter. God bless. Rosemary Krull Preachers for April at 10.30am 5th April : Rev Margaret Trapp (Easter Sunday) 12th April : Mrs Janice Barrett 19th April : Mr Brian Dallimore 26th April : Local arrangement Toddlers We had fun celebrating World Book Day with the toddlers dressing up as various book characters - we had Fireman Sam, Little Red Riding Hood, some beautiful fairies, a Gruffalo and a very scary pirate - you all looked fabulous. Happy Easter to all the toddlers, their families and carers and don’t forget to look out for our decorated egg in the village Easter Egg Trail. We look forward to welcoming you back for the start of Summer Term on Tuesday 21st April. Jane St Michael’s Sidesmen Rota 12th April 8.00am Tim Hannah 19th April 10.00am Jane & Tim Hannah 26th April 6.30pm Pat Doble Phyllis and John Page would like to express their grateful thanks to all those who gave flowers, cards and condolences during their recent bereavement. The support given by so many friends has been a source of immense help to them both. St Michael’s Fund raising Group A note for your Diary - On Sunday 5th July 2015 There is to be an Afternoon of Music from the shows and Cream Teas. On the lawns of Ivy Clad Hall by kind permission of Miss Frances James. Featuring for the first time in Brent Knoll, The Worle Wind Band. Tony Gilbert 5

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Brent Knoll Parish Council Meeting Summary – February 2015 Meeting Attendance: 11 Councillors and 5 members of the public. The Minutes of the meetings held in February were approved as true and accurate reflections of those meetings. Declarations There were declarations made of pecuniary, prejudicial and personal interests on a number of matters, details are fully outlined in the full minutes. Copies can be obtained from the Clerk. Key Matters agreed and resolutions approved 1. New Dog Bin now installed near Church. 2. (a) Repeater signs 30mph need re doing between Wick Lane and West Road. (b) White lining on Brent Street near Tadpoles on the side of the highway. (c) Footway opposite South Brent Close needs attention. These matters to be reported to SCC Highways. 3. Fox and Goose junction to be the subject of discussion at the April meeting. 4. Council to write to SCC regarding recent diversion issues affecting village. 5. Flood action group operating details now housed with equipment. 6. SID; The Parish Council agreed to organise chapter 8 Training locally. 7. CPR Training to be offered and the April meeting to be addressed by suitable trainers. 8. It was resolved to invite Wessex Water to address the Annual Parish Meeting. 9. The Maintenance contract agreed with Jason Mayo 2015/16. 10. GB Sports contract confirmed 2015/16. 11. Further quotes to be obtained for a new Spring Tractor for the play area. Planning Decisions Cllr Filmer left the room during these discussions due to his position on District planning committee and to avoid pre determination on planning matters. 12/15/00002 : West Country Motor homes, Bristol Road, Brent Knoll. The Parish Council offer no observations to this application. 07/15/00002 : Erection of double garage on land at Pink Cottage Burton Row Brent Knoll. The Parish Council considered this application at its monthly meeting on 2nd March and decided to object to this proposal on the grounds that this is a non-agricultural building on agricultural land and the Parish Council also note the SHLAA Document that identifies this property ref H156 flood risk zone 3 and is therefore considered to be unsuitable for residential development in principle. Although the Parish Council previously supported this application with the garage it does not support the changing position of the garage in this application. Full details of the reasons for decisions on the above applications can be found on the Brent Knoll Website or District Council planning portal and of course, copies of the minutes are available from the Clerk. Finance Matters: Dealt with and payments agreed in line with published agenda. Full copy of the minutes available on the website and also available from the Clerk. Forthcoming meetings: Monthly Meeting Tuesday 7th April, 7.30pm. Provisional Planning Meeting 20th Apr. 7.00pm (3rd Monday) Public always welcome to meetings. Owen J Cullwick, [email protected] Tel 07917 445 215 8

Complete our Local team Become a Parish Councillor in Brent Knoll Would you like to know more about how you can serve your local Community as a member of the Parish Council? Please contact the Clerk or a member of the Council for more information. Your Village needs you Applications must be received by Sedgemoor District Council by 4pm on 9th April. Owen J Cullwick, The Clerk, 1a Naish Road, Burnham on Sea. Tel. No. 01278 794 463 : Email [email protected] : Mobile 07917 445 215 102 Bus Service As a result of the recent bus subsidy funding consultation, the funding for service 102 is to be withdrawn. The vast majority of areas currently served by the 102 do have alternative services available, and for Brent Knoll, which is not served by another service, there will be a routed Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) service. This DRT service is currently being organised and we will send further details in due course. Service 102 is due to cease operation on 12 April 2015. Also, we are currently arranging a school bus for the entitled students from East Brent, Brent Knoll, Whitecross, and Berrow who will lose their access to school after the withdrawal of this service. BRENT KNOLL BAZAAR FARMERS’ MARKET & PARISH CAFÉ SATURDAY 11th April at Brent Knoll Parish Hall - 10.00am to 12 noon Locally produced fresh beef, pork, chicken, eggs, Cheese, Pickles and preserves. Vegetable Stall, Speciality Bread, Westcroft Cider, Homemade Cakes and Savouries, Phoenix Cards, Handmade Cards, Silver and beaded jewellery, Handbags, Children’s Games and Toys, Local Crafts, Textiles, etc., CDs, DVDs, Books and Bric-a-Brac Plus Raffle The Parish Café will be serving drinks & light snacks. Entrance FREE Good Quality, Clean items for BRIC-A-BRAC stall (No Electrical Goods, please) will be appreciated, (collection or delivery) or to Book a Table (£7 per table) Phone Eddie Fuller (01278 760 308) Proceeds to Brent Knoll Parish Hall Easter Lilies If anyone would like to make a donation towards the cost of the Easter Lilies for St Michael’s Church floral decorations in memory of loved ones; please contact :- Marion Vining on 760 612. Marion 9 Rebecca Southwell MBCha Mssch Itec Hons MGCP Chiropody & Holistic Therapies Reflexology and Chiropody' Home Visiting Service Tel: 01278 795 915 HPC Registered

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

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WHERE IN OUR VILLAGE Each month the BKN will have a small picture quiz – no prizes, but I hope you may enjoy guessing where the object shown is located within the Parish boundary. Last month’s object is a sketch of Brent Knoll taken from the sign outside “West Croft Cider”. This month features another item which you will all have passed many times, but have you noticed it? So where is it? The answer and another object will be shown next month. JaPe Girls Just Wanna Have Fun! Girls Just Wanna Have Fun in April will hopefully be a Race Night. Meet at Woodlands at 7.30pm on Tuesday 21st April, cost £5. Our evenings are very relaxed and it is a great way to meet other people in the village. Caroline Brent Knoll Local History Society As members of the Local History Society will know, the February meeting had to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. Hopefully the one in March will take place at 7.30pm on the fourth Monday (the 23rd) in the Jubilee Room of the Parish Hall, as will that for April, on the 27th, same time, same place. New members are always welcome. We do make an enormous charge, normally £1, to cover the hire of the hall! I will report on the March meeting next month. It will concentrate on the features originally scheduled for February, i.e. a couple of pictures taken when John Arden’s play, “The Business of Good Government”, was premiered in Brent Knoll church, the will of William Body and some pictures and other memorabilia originally owned by Pam Dite, which have just been generously donated to us. In April I intend to have a look at some of the famous people who have lived in Brent Knoll and some local histories which have been written about the village over the years, after, if necessary, finishing any of the topics started in February, if we do not have time to compete them then. Should you have any information about famous people living locally whom we may overlook, please do contact me, or come to the meeting. If you have any particular topics you would like to have discussions about during our next Winter season, please do let me know and we will do our best to fit them in. If you have done any research into aspects of the village history, we would love to hear from you. If you have any photographs, papers or other matters of historical interest and are happy to show and discuss them, then please get in touch. John Page Easter Opening at The Village Shop The shop will be OPEN on Easter Saturday and Sunday, but we are closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Easter Quiz 1) What are the Easter Colours? 2) What is Osterhaas? 3) What is the Easter Flower? 4) What is the most popular name in the USA for the Easter Bunny? 5) Who sang the original song of ‘Peter Cottontail’? 6) The Easter Story appears in which Gospels in the Bible? 7) After being resurrected, by which Sea does Jesus show himself to his disciples? 8) How did Jesus’ betrayer commit suicide? 9) What do Easter Eggs represent? 10) When and why did Easter start? RA 13 CHELSEA FARM CENTRE LTD HARP RD, BRENT KNOLL, SOMERSET TA9 4HQ TEL: 01278 760 480 PLUGS - PLANTS - BULBS - HANGING BASKETS - TUBS - PERENNIALS - SHRUBS ALL PLANTS IN THEIR SEASON CITROEN SPECIALISTS - PARTS, REPAIRS, SERVICING OPEN 7 DAYS PARKING FACILITIES

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

BRENT KNOLL AND MARK TENNIS CLUB Saturday 11th April, 7.30 pm at Brent Knoll Parish Hall. Quiz Night and Ploughman’s Supper for teams of up to five people. £5 per person. This is our tennis club annual quiz, run by Dave McMillan and open to all. Please book your team in on 01934 815407 or [email protected]. The Tennis Club starts it’s Spring programme on Wednesday 8th April with coaching for club players at 7.30pm, followed by the Annual General Meeting at the club house starting at 8.30pm. Alison BRENT KNOLL AND MARK TENNIS CLUB This month’s Brent Knoll and Mark Tennis club whist drive is on Monday 20th April at 7.00pm at Ivyclad Hall. Everyone is welcome and there will be prizes and a raffle. Thank you to Frances James for providing the venue. This will be the last Whist Drive of the season, starting again in the Autumn. CO Beware Pension Scams As from April of this year Government legislation allows people to cash in their pensions. Sadly this may result in a number of scams which can defraud the Pension Holder. Individuals could be targeted in a number of different ways including: - Websites, mass texting, telephone calls or cold calls. - - Scammers may suggest that the Government has asked them to make contact. Scammers may offer a number of services such as: ‘One-off investment opportunities’, ‘free pension review’,’ cash bonus’, ‘government endorsement,’ ‘legal loopholes’ Transfer of your money overseas Access to pension before aged 55 Encouragement to speed up transfer of money to a new scheme NEVER REPLY OR TALK TO THESE CALLS/LETTERS/EMAILS! If people are interested to cash in their pension they should- 1. Consult their Bank Manager, Solicitor, Accountant or responsible person such as a member of their family before doing anything. 2. Insist in having everything in writing. 3. Not give details of their pension scheme or Bank Account to anyone other than a responsible person. Remember if it appears to be too good to be true it probably is not true. Please contact me about this or any other issue that is worrying you - Kim Wilcox Village Agent, 07943 555519 or email [email protected] Kim FRONT COVER Photo Thanks to the school for the photo of the award winning Choir. See below. Bob After just a few weeks of rehearsals, the Brent Knoll School choir went over to perform at the Highbridge Festival on the 10th March, and really impressed everyone who watched their performance. The choir volunteered their lunchtimes to improve their singing skills under the expert tuition of Mrs Siobhan Johnson. The choir were very proud to be the winners in their group. Thanks are also due to Miss Richens, the School’s senior teacher, who took the children to Highbridge. As well as their singing, they were commended for their good behaviour and smartness. Chris Burman 16

At our February meeting we were expecting a talk by the Hedgehog Rescue but unfortunately they cancelled at very short notice, which was disappointing. However, we were rescued when Brian Freestone stepped into the breach at the last moment. He came along and gave a very amusing talk recounting some of the incidents from his teaching experience. We were very thankful that he was willing and able to come to our assistance. Next meeting – 15th April – Mr Tropman – Health and Wellbeing We are a very friendly group and we welcome new members of all ages. We meet on the third Wednesday of every month; so just come along to a meeting or contact Joy Collett - 01278 760 458 or Trish Mace 01278 760 440. Trish Mace WI CRAFT GROUP We will meet in the Methodist Church school room at 2.30pm on Monday April 20th. We continue to knit for Mission to Seafarers and Somewhere to Go. Thank you to those who have recently given us wool. Anyone is free to join us to knit, natter and have a cuppa. For more details please contact me on 760 691. Margaret The Windows Carers Group Support Group for Carers who look after family members with Mental Health problems. The Windows Carers group would like take this opportunity of thanking the following organisations for their donations to our group in 2014, enabling our members to enjoy the benefits of a day trip to Brixham with Bakers Dolphin, a Christmas meal at the Red Cow Inn, Brent Knoll and a large donation to cover the room rental at the Bay Centre where we meet every Tuesday Evening. Sincere thanks to: Sedgemoor District Council, Leonard Laity Stoate Charitable Trust & Highbridge Community Development. On a trial basis, we have decided to run a group meeting each week in April on a Tuesday afternoon from 2pm - 4pm in the hope that more Carers are able to attend rather than at night. This will be open on the following dates only at The Bay Centre, Cassis Close, Burnham on Sea. TA8 1NN. (Tuesdays April 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th, from 2pm - 4pm). For further information please contact Tony Monaghan on 07502 126 666 Pauline Wellman Barry New Roofing Services Phone: 07881 385 644 E-mail: [email protected] www.barrynew.co.uk Call for a free, no obligation quotation 17

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Brent Knoll House Histories Andrews’s Tenement – 11 In last month’s article I mentioned the Auxiliary Units and, in particular, the highly secret Intelligence Units, which were developed in case there was a German invasion. Intelligence Units were localised groups throughout the country and were divided into gatherers (spies, e.g. doctors, midwives, postmen, vicars and farmworkers, whose jobs permitted them to move around fairly easily and enabled them to report on German troop movements, etc), runners (or “cut-outs”, who would take messages deposited by gatherers from one dead letter-box, local to the gatherer, to another dead letter-box, close to the location of an Out- station) and transmitters (who broadcast the information). None of the gatherers, runners or transmitters would be aware of each others identity to ensure that, even under torture, they could not betray their colleagues. There were only around 200 radio transmission stations (or OUT-stations, as they were known) throughout the entire country, some known as Zero stations, others simply as OUT- stations and others as sub OUT-stations. The one in Brent Knoll came into the last category, transmitting intelligence to a local OUT-station at (as did Spaxton sub Out- station), which would then relay it to a Zero station (in this case known as Golding 0 Zero Station, located at Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine – others were known as Golding 1, Golding 2, etc.), whence it would be further transmitted to Headquarters in Coleshill. This elaborate structure was necessary as the transmitters in the sub OUT- stations could only transmit for a maximum of twenty or thirty miles, though, obviously, the Zero stations had to be more powerful. Part of the problem was that the transmitters were powered from a standard 6-volt car battery, which had to be re-charged frequently to ensure that it was always available when required. This picture shows one of the wireless sets, known as TRDs (Transmitter/Receiver Devices), used by the operators. It was 15 inches long, 9 3/8 inches wide and 9 1/4 inches high. It operated on a frequency in the range of 48 to 65 megacycles, which was rarely used in those days and, therefore, unlikely to be monitored by the Germans (today it is used by BBC1 television). At least a 40 foot aerial was required in order to make transmissions of clarity. The microphone was an ordinary Post Office telephone handset, if ordinary is the correct term for what was then a fairly infrequently found device in most homes or offices. It is shown on the top of the device in the picture. Most Out-stations were located in underground hideouts, though others could be in attics, sheds, barns, follies, summerhouses and even an outside privy, but it was not difficult to find that the Brent Knoll sub-station was located in the dilapidated Cottage between the Laurels and Myrtle Cottage, which happened to have been given the name “Tumbledown Cottage”. But how was it hidden and what exactly went on there? Luckily I discovered that one of the people who had lived in the Laurels at that time was still alive and could remember exactly what was intended to happen. Continued on page 20 20

Brent Knoll House Histories – Continued Through her daughter, Jane Moreton, who chaired Sedgemoor District Council a short while ago, I was able to contact Mrs Monica Huntley, who was the daughter of John Lennard, or Leonardt, and she was most helpful in providing information about her father and brother, who ran the station together. John was in charge, but Neville, who was normally known as “Pete”, was the one with the requisite technical knowledge, so he became the operator. He had suffered from a brain tumour when he was only eleven years old and so had been unfit for army duties. The transmitter had to be secreted somewhere where it would be safe and unlikely to be discovered. In Tumbledown it was hidden in a secret compartment concealed within the woodwork which appeared to comprise the underside of the stairs, which ran up from just inside the front door. As this was made to look as though it was the normal panelling of the stairs, it probably necessitated a number of other adjoining stairs also having false rears. There was not the usual understairs cupboard here, which would have suggested itself as an obvious hiding-place to anyone searching the cottage. In fact, being open into the ground-floor room (which spanned the width of the cottage), it was in plain sight and, therefore, much less suspicious. A panel, with a secret catch, would be removed from the stair to access the radio. Another requirement for any radio, as mentioned above, was an aerial. As it needed to be at least forty feet long it was normally located in an adjoining tree and that for Tumbledown was no exception. There were two beech trees positioned behind The Laurels, approximately 60-70 metres away, and the aerial was connected from the house to the trees via what appeared to be a standard overhead power cable. It is not certain whether the aerial here was buried behind the bark, although this was likely and fairly common. Although she was still only a young girl at the time, Monica Huntley recalled that, on one occasion, someone in an army uniform walked past her with a ladder whilst she was chatting with a friend. Shortly after his cap fell to the ground close to where they were standing and she realised that he was up one of the trees. She then noticed that his ladder stood in a rhine beneath the tree and was partially obscured from the rest of the site by the pigsty. He was repairing the aerial. Captain Coxwell-Rodgers M.C. was the Intelligence Officer for the whole area up until 1942 (his actual name was Cecil Mein Probyn Dighton, but he adopted this nom-de-guerre during the war) and was in the Gloucestershire Regiment. As his health was failing he was replaced by Capt Fingland (1942), Captain Ingrams (1943) and Captain Grover (1944). More locally, Dr Harold Whewell Hogarth Holmes B.A., M.B., B.Ch. Cantab., M.R.C.S. Eng., L.R.C.P.London, was also involved in the Brent Knoll network. Exactly what his role was is uncertain, though he was also a Major in the Berrow and Home Guard. He was a consultant surgeon at Burnham’s War Memorial Hospital in Love Lane, Medical Officer and Public Vaccinator for Burnham, Berrow and Brean and on the Committee of the Weston- super-Mare Guardians. Maybe that suggests he was Officer–in-Charge of operations. Luckily, of course, the station never had to be used for real John Page ANNUAL PARISH MEETING IN BRENT KNOLL APRIL 20th 7.30pm In the Parish Hall Wessex Water - Presented by Martin Tidman Outlining the large investment scheme to alleviate recent problems in the village This is your chance to come and hear directly what is proposed and to ask questions Further enquiries from Owen Cullwick, Clerk, 07917 445 215, [email protected] 21

CFG GUTTER CHECK GUTTERS CLEANED inside (up to 14 metres) and ROOF CHECKED for your peace of mind £20 Subject to access Fascias, Soffits and Conservatories cleaned Moss and Branches removed from roofs Price on viewing Please call: 01934 644 430

)ORULGD9LOOD +HDWHG3RRO)RXUEHGURRPV PLQXWHVIURP'LVQH\IURP SHUZHHN $YDLODEOHWKURXJKRXWWKH\HDU &RQWDFW6XHDQG'DYH0F0LOODQ ZZZRXUYLOODIORULGDFRXN RU DQG 6NLDSDUWPHQWLQ)UHQFK$OSVIRUUHQW ZZZSX\VWYLQFHQWFRXN Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 22

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Women’s Society I really enjoyed hosting our Quiz evening in February and hope that all those who joined us had a pleasant evening. Thank you for coming. Our next meeting on Thursday, March 26th is our Hot Pot Supper, which is being held at 7.30pm (please note change of time) at Julie’s home - Wick Farm, Wick Lane. Please bring a main course or sweet which we can share. We all look forward to trying a variety of dishes prepared by members for us to enjoy. Thank you in advance to Julie for hosting the evening, which we all really look forward to - no diets that evening! We are very sorry but we have had to cancel our meeting for April 30th. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are not able to have our meeting as planned. We meet again on May 28th where a Garden visit, followed by a meal, has been planned - details and times will be announced when we meet at the end of March. You are very welcome to join us at any of our meetings, ring 01278 751 229 if a lift is required. Ann Women’s Institute At our March meeting, the speaker, Julie Fido, spoke about her involvement with the charity Genesis, which is headed by Prof. Robert Winstone, with the aim of helping women with difficult pregnancies and babies who are born with illnesses. Julie raises money by undertaking arduous cycle rides all over the world together with about 80 other women. She showed us video of her cycle ride in Jordan. Her next ride will be John O’Groats to Lands’ End in May and then India. The speaker at the meeting on April 8th, 2.30pm, at the Parish Hall, will be Sarah Harris who will give a humorous account of farming. On March 5th, several members went to a coffee morning at Lympsham W.I. and witnessed the arrival of the Centenary Baton. The Women’s Institute is celebrating its centenary this year and the Baton has been circulated around and Wales and will eventually arrive at the Royal Albert Hall for the centenary AGM on June 4th. Margaret Smith and Eileen Goundry were joint winners of the Flower of the Month Competition. JMG Royal British Legion Women’s Section Brent Knoll branch The Women’s Section will be holding its next branch meeting on Tuesday 14th April from 7pm in the Red Cow, Brent Street. This is open to all members of the Women’s Section and those ladies interested in joining. Some of us will stay for a bar snack and you are very welcome to join us – no need to book. There is no charge for the meeting and you buy your own coffee/drinks/snack at the bar. Further information about this meeting and the Women’s Section may be obtained from Liz on 760 810. Mary Piper The Village Shop - Did you know? • Johnsons Dry Cleaners now supply the shop • The shop has a website specialising in food gifts and hampers, www.thevillagehamper.co.uk. • You can order a weekly fruit and veg box, by phone, in person or email: [email protected]. • Fresh meat orders from Havercrofts are delivered on Fridays. • I am more than willing to deliver shopping to anyone in the village. • Newspapers and magazines are delivered in Brent Knoll and East Brent. Village shops are becoming an endangered species, I regularly hear of another closure. Please don't let Brent Knoll's go the same way. Caroline 24

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Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 26 Your Local Family Will Writing Service Est 2003 Home Visiting Free initial Advice Wills and Trusts Lasting Power of Attorney Secure Document Storage Pre Paid Funeral Plans Fully CRB Checked References provided Professional Indemnity Cover Contact Owen J Cullwick 01278 794 463 07927 445 215 [email protected]

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Christian Aid’s 70th Anniversary In 1945, the churches wanted to reach out to those left homeless, hungry and destitute by the Second World War. Christian Aid was born. Our goal was simple - to love our neighbour as ourselves. To do this, we promised help to those suffering the devastating effects of war, persecution and famine throughout the world. Faith helped us press on in the face of war, natural disasters and the injustice of a global system that keeps people poor. Hope made us insist that it doesn’t have to be this way. Love inspired us to want the best for our neighbour as we want it for ourselves. Together, we’ve achieved so much. As we turn 70, we give thanks for what we - with the help of you, our tireless supporters - have managed to achieve. In more than 70 countries, we’ve given people the practical tools they need to find lasting solutions to end poverty, hunger and hardship. We’ve delivered life-saving emergency aid, and rebuilt homes and lives torn apart by war or natural disaster. We’ve also helped create and support some ground-breaking international organisations, networks and coalitions. In turn, this has helped to persuade rich countries to drop billions of dollars of crippling debt owed by the developing world, ensure poor farmers finally receive a fair price for their crops, and to start tackling the tax dodging and climate change that keep people poor. In the poorest places on earth, we’ve been there, on the ground, helping people of all faiths and none to live lives free from need. Living faith, inspiring hope, and showing love ... for 70 years. Here are just some of our proudest achievements from the last seven decades: 1940s Helping those left destitute by the devastation of the Second World War. 1950s Supporting refugees worldwide and raising awareness of global need. 1960s Providing vital emergency relief and pushing for peace during the Vietnam war. 1970s Assisting 500,000 slum dwellers in Calcutta to have clean water, sanitation and primary education. 1980s Issuing emergency appeal for Ethiopia raising £1.35 million and campaigning to end apartheid. 1990s Helping establish the Fairtrade Foundation and successfully calling for western governments to drop $130bn of debt owed by poor countries. 2000s Reaching more than half a million people after the Indian Ocean tsunami. 2010s Helping 953,500 Africans to adopt preventive health practices and get the medical treatment they need. As we turn 70, we’re reaffirming our commitment to the hundreds of thousands of women, men and children struggling to survive around the globe. Thank you for supporting our vital work - we can’t do it without you. I would like to finish with a quote from Adi whose story is featured in Christian Aid Week this year: Adi’s story: Adi was left with no cattle and just one sheep after her husband died. She and her 8 children were eating just once a day and very little even then. But then a local Ethiopian organization supported by Christian Aid, HUNDEE began work in Adi’s area. She was chosen as one of the poorest of the poor by the community and she received a cow and two goats from HUNDEE. The cow was the start of her world opening up, of opportunities and choices. It gave her some status, some financial security. It gave her some means of income and some food for her family. Adi says: “You have to have something, either a word or a dream, or something that you hold. In order to stand from where you are sitting, support is essential.” So thank you for being the support that makes all the difference to Adi and others like her. Talk by Fiona Dabonr at Burnham and District Christian Aid AGM in February Pauline 28

Wartime Memories – Part 3 Mr Fred Long interviewed by Brain Freestone On his return to England, Fred went from Malta to Toulon then spent four days travelling across France by train, arriving in Dieppe before going on to Portsmouth to await demobilisation. Naval routine here was very strict. Life became boring so it was sensible to keep out of the way. Fred put in for a job of towing targets, but instead he was sent to Appledore in Devon where they had Harbour Defence Motor Launches (HDMLs) keeping a radio watch on Lundy Island. Trained on petrol engines, Fred wasn’t allowed to work on their Diesel engines. So he worked for a short time at a garage in Appledore until he got demobbed. Equipment collected during his time in the armed forces such as tools etc. was called ‘rabbits.’ Many years after his time in Malta, he was talking to his Brent Knoll neighbour Arthur Weston who lived opposite Fred. Arthur had been in the Navy and on MTB 635, the very same boat which Fred had worked on in Malta. On returning to this country in Gosport Fred met a man on another boat, a Peter Lloyd who was one of his near neighbours from Burnham on Sea. Fred’s war was a mixture of hard but regular maintenance work and action. Many of the nights on patrol were terrifying from the point of view of noise and action. The men lived from day by day, not knowing if they would ever get back home again. Fred considers his war to have been very interesting but above all that, he was very lucky to have survived it. After the war he made a scale model of his MTB 614 (see photo) of which he is still very proud. BDF CHURCH BANNER PROJECT! Can you paint? Can you sew? Can you create? If you can do any of these, then we need you! Why not come to the first meeting of the TPoTS Banner Group. The aim is to start a friendly group who will create banners for the churches in the Parish of the Three Saints (TPoTS) and at the same time learn new skills, have fun and enjoy a cup of coffee. Our first meeting will be held at the Woodlands Country Hotel, Hill Lane, Brent Knoll on Tuesday, 21st April at 10.00am to share ideas for moving forward. So that we have some idea of how many people might be interested in taking part, it would be helpful if you could contact Rosemary or Claire. We may hold an additional evening meeting on Tuesday, 21st April for those who could not attend the morning meeting. For further information please contact either Rosemary on 01278 769 010 or Claire on 01278 760 346 or email [email protected]. We hope to see you there! Rosemary and Claire “Meet & Eat” Meet and Eat will be held in the Nuttall Room in the Brent Knoll Parish Hall on Monday April 20th. Please book with Liz on 01278 760 810 by Friday April 17th. Doors open at 12.30pm. We look forward to seeing you. Liz, Rosemary, Bella and Weit 29

WANT TO PLAY THE PIANO or KEYBOARD? Qualified piano and keyboard teacher in Brent Knoll available for friendly, informal lessons Beginners and nervous students a speciality Learn for fun – no pressure to sit exams! For those who do want to work through their grades, the A.B.R.S.M. syllabus is taught. Call Amy on 760 100 / 07740 167703 Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 30

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PARISH HALL COMMITTEE FORTHCOMING EVENTS for your DIARY 2nd Saturday Bazaar, Farmers’ Market and Parish Café 25th April Gracie Wickins-Sweet performs 18th July Music on the Green with the Coastline Singers 29th August “Return of Jay Jerome” 13th June Village Fête 17th October Harvest Supper Next committee meeting – Monday, 13th April, 8pm, “Jubilee Room” EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 5TH OR EASTER MONDAY APRIL 6TH WHY NOT FOLLOW AN EASTER EGG TRAIL OR POP INTO ST.MICHAEL’S CHURCH FOR EASTER REFRESHMENTS REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED BETWEEN 2PM AND 4.30.PM IN THE CHURCH VESTRY

PROCEEDS TO FRIENDS OF ST.MICHAEL’S CHURCH Mad Hatters Tea Party Saturday May 16th St. Michael’s Church 2 – 5pm Cream Teas, Stalls, Games and Competitions. As well as a fun afternoon planned for all, we invite you to enter these: The Parish of Three Saints Bake Off at Brent Knoll 1) Victoria Sponge 2) Jam Tarts, 3) Cupcakes decorated in the theme of Mad Hatters Tea Party 4) Decorated Cake decorated in the theme of Mad Hatters Tea Party Competitions Mad Hat Flowers in a Tea Cup or Tea Pot An animal from recycled materials For more details and entry form, please pick up a form from the Post Office. Forms will also be distributed through School, Guides and Brownies and Toddlers. Margaret Smith, 01278 760 691 32

Lympsham Gardening Club At last the Winter is over and the colours of Spring are venturing into our gardens and the Gardening Club members are coming out of hibernation. Our first meeting in 2015 was held on the 10th March and we started with our AGM. Ian Gibson continues as Chairmen with Jim Hamner as Treasurer and Eva Price as Hon.Secretary and Minute Secretary. Chris Cudlip was due to tell us about Rosemoor Gardens, but was unable to come. His place was taken by Viv Hares who kindly stepped in at short notice to tell us about her wildlife garden. Viv’s love of gardening was inspired by her father, who was also a keen gardener. Her present garden is now about 10 years old and designed to attract birds. All planting uses native plants and shrubs including the boundaries with an emphasis on trees and hedgerows, although there is a rhyne along one border. There are 2 ponds and also a well, which provides for any watering needed. There is also a meadow with wild flowers and fruit trees. Viv did point out that even wild gardens do need to be cared for and managed. Viv has a great affinity with her wild birds. A robin greets her outside her bedroom window every morning and the garden has an abundance of wrens and blue tits. Except in extreme weather, Viv has a policy of not feeding the wild birds and they repay her with eating aphids and other unwanted insects. Her talk was very descriptive, allowing members to visualise the garden and afterwards most of us crowded round the board with photographs of the garden. Viv spoke with great enthusiasm for this on going venture and the joys of creating a wildlife garden. Thank you for sharing your passion with us Viv. Dates of future Meetings at the Manor Hall, Lympsham:- Tuesday 14th April 7.45pm at the Manor Hall, Lympsham with Kevin Anderson telling us about Egrets on Avalon Marshes Tuesday 12th May 7.45pm at the Manor Hall, Lympsham when Herbs will be the topic presented by Diana Redfern. Thursday 14th May 10.00am at Lympsham Sports Pavilion Spring Coffee Morning. Plant sale and Bring & Buy. Our Annual Outing this year will be on Wednesday 17th June. We will be going to Knightshayes, a National Trust Property near Tiverton. As well as extensive gardens there is a walled kitchen garden producing food for the Stables Café. Mariette Denison 33

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

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

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

A 2 9 3 8 A 3 6

B 5 8 1 4 B 9 4

C 4 7 2 3 6 C 21

D 8 5 7 D 1 9

E 7 6 2 4 1 E 3 8

F 3 1 8 6 F 5 2

G 8 1 6 7 9 G 3 9

H 3 2 H 27

J 4 9 8 5 J 56 A Happy Easter to all. This month’s Easiest Sudoku solves in just 2 steps! If you would like to see how it does that, please send me an e-mail and I will show you. Last month’s Sudoku was solved by 14 persons. They were Klaus Brenner, Jenny Butters, Pauline Chadwick, Mac Hares, Christine Hall, Liz Ibrahim, Chris Marsh, Frankie New, Peter Osborn, Pat Paulson, John Spiers, Caroline Sturgess, Ted Toon and Gordon Watson. Welcome to Christine Hall and to John Harper last month. John Spiers won the ballot. Send answers to 48 Brent Street or [email protected]. David Filmer Last month’s Sudoku Solutions (by popular request from several competitors) are below:- Last month’s Easy Sudoku Hard Sudoku 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 6 2 4 91 A 5 3 A 148 265973

B 6 2 3 9 1 4 5 87 B 658734 1 9 2

9 1 7 5 3 C 4 8 2 6 C 732491 568

2 1 5 64 D 8 9 7 3 D 4293 5 8 617 3 4 6 8 E 7 2 9 1 5 E 6 17924385

F 1 6 5 3 4 9 8 72 F 58371629 4 5 9 1 6 3 G 7 2 8 4 G 2 741398 56 4 6 7 8 H 9 5 3 1 2 H 3 516827 49 1 4 2 7 9 8 6 7132 J 8 3 6 5 J 9 54

Just for Fun - On the death of his wife, a Yorkshire man ordered a headstone with his wife’s name and the words “SHE WAS THINE”. When the work was finished the man discovered the stonemason had made a mistake, as it read “SHE WAS THIN”. The widow pointed out the mistake and asked for the capital E to be added. The next time he sees the stone, it reads “E SHE WAS THIN”. RW 36

News from the Primary Spring has well and truly come to the school in the last week. The willow dome, which was only planted a month or so age, is already in bud, which bodes well for its first year. Other new life has come in the form of a small incubator, complete with a clutch of eggs. The chicks hatched within days of arriving and they have been a constant source of amazement and questioning from young and old alike. World Book Day was celebrated in style on the 5th; it is always so impressive to see how much effort has been made by our families in order to create some really terrific book character costumes. A book swap was held during the day and a group of children walked down Brent Street with some of their favourite books, which were shared with our very youngest friends at Tadpoles Pre-School. In contrast to the gentleness of chicks and reading, the school’s tag rugby team, consisting of both boys and girls, went out and played four very rigorous matches in the Sedgemoor District round of the County league. The games, against both large and small schools, were played at Rugby Club and the trip proved very successful as the Brent Knoll team won its group and now go onto the County finals at Millfield in April. With the Easter break not so far away, we are now making plans for our annual Easter service at St. Michael’s on the afternoon of Thursday, 26th March. Two days later, on Saturday 28th, the school hall will be open from 1pm, with refreshments and stalls available to all, but especially to those children and adults who need refuelling after the annual Easter ‘race’ up the Knoll. Do call the school office if you would like more details on any of the events we are hosting. Chris Burman Gracie Wickens-Sweet and the Coastline Singers Book now to avoid disappointment! On Saturday 25th April there will be a concert in Brent Knoll Parish Hall, featuring Gracie Wickens-Sweet and the Coastline Singers. Gracie has hit the headlines many times, most recently as the winner of Burnham’s Got Talent 2014, and she has been given rave reviews in national competitions by such stars as Connie Fisher and David Mahoney. The Coastline Singers need no introduction as our local popular choir, and they will, as usual, invite the audience to join in with some well-known numbers from the Musicals. The evening will include music from Abba, country, pop and musical theatre: a lovely mix and an evening for all to enjoy. Tickets £8 (Children under 14, £4) are now available from the Village shop. Further details from 01278 784 184, [email protected]. Mary Lawrence Community Speed Watch The recent problems encountered on Brent Street and Burton Row, highlight the need of all drivers, to be aware of the dangers of speeding on our local roads. At times over 200 vehicles an hour are travelling along Brent Street and Burton Row. These are narrow roads and mostly without pavements and with many parked vehicles. To assist in monitoring vehicle speeds, the Community Speed Watch team are looking to expand their numbers. Anyone willing to volunteer for an hour a week, may phone 07591 148 377 for more information. Roger Ward 37

Please mention the Brent Knoll News when replying to adverts 38

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e-mail: [email protected]

Manufacturers of quality bespoke wooden gates 39

In Praise of Brent Knoll! Having lived in the Village for several decades now, it seems about time to sing the praises of Brent Knoll! How lucky we are to live in such a beautiful village, surrounded by people who help to enrich our lives. There are so many of them who do numerous things for us all, which is very much appreciated. From babies to oldies, we are all catered for! There is something for everyone, and if we choose to hibernate for a while, there is always a friendly face and cheery word to be had when we emerge. Just thought I'd mention it. A Happy Resident Sunday Tea Party - 19th April 2015 Are you 75 or over and living alone? Would you like to be treated to delicious sandwiches and cakes in the home of a Brent Knoll villager? After yet another convivial tea party in March, the next Contact the Elderly monthly tea party will be held on Sunday 19th April from 3pm. If you need a lift, a volunteer driver will collect you and return you home safely. To book your place at the tea party - or to volunteer as a driver or occasional host - please contact me Kim Wilcox, Village Agent [email protected] or 07943 555 519 Kim

“I was going to plant some seeds the wife bought me, and reading the instructions on the packet it said …” “Get your magnifying glass!” “No, it said, ‘get the soil to a fine tilth’, now is it something special that Brent Knoll has a fine tilth. I’ve been looking at my soil, it’s a fine clay lumps!” “Well, I understand from local experts, a fine tilth only comes after digging the ground for about thirty years!!” “In that case, I’ll get my fine tilth from the garden centre; I don’t think I’ll be around for another thirty years!” 40

Care Support Groups Since September last year, there have been groups running in the villages of Brent Knoll, East Brent and Lympsham supported by The Parish of Three Saints. Care Support Groups Alzheimer’s and Dementia Carers Group Usually the 3rd Monday of the month 4.30pm at Brentcombe House, Church Road, East Brent, TA9 4HZ. Tel Carla 01278 760 041 or Maggie 01278 760 661 for details. Cancer Friends Group Usually the 3rd Thursday of the month 2.30pm at Somerdown Farm, Slade Lane, Lympsham, BS24 0DP. Tel Dot 01278 760 600 or Sandra 01934 750 076 for details. Bereavement Friends Group Usually the 4th Thursday of the month 2.30pm at 87, Brent Street, Brent Knoll, TA9 4EQ. Tel Margaret 01278 760 691 or Gwen 01934 750 416. These groups are open to all. Margaret PLANT SALE & OPEN GARDEN At ROOKERY HOUSE THE CAUSEWAY, MARK TA9 4QH on B3139 (ST 372 477 )

SATURDAY 2nd MAY 10.30am TO 1pm PLANTS, CAKES EASY PARKING

Exhibitions, Raffle IN FIELD OPPOSITE, Activities foor the children thanks to M/s. G. Isgar £2 INCLUDING COFFEE or TEA 41

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Brent Knoll Weather Report – February 2015 February brought a mix of weather systems, ranging from some lively Atlantic lows to a quiet spell of high pressure. It was a degree or so cooler than normal, balancing the relatively mild December and January, and rainfall was above average at 64.6mm: but there was no severe weather. The month started with a cold and dry northerly airstream, drawn down from the Polar region by low pressure to the north of Scotland. This was followed by an area of high pressure, which settled over the UK from the 5th to the 12th. Both of these features provide a recipe for cold, dry weather: daytime temperatures remained above zero, but it felt much colder in the low humidity, and there were frequent nightly air frosts. Unfortunately the high did not bring blue skies for the whole period: cloud became trapped beneath it and there was not yet enough strength in the sun to disperse it, so the sky became overcast. There was no rainfall for the first 12 days of February – the little that was recorded was frost melt, which counts as precipitation but isn’t rain. The high moved off to the east on the 13th to be replaced by a low pressure system, which brought the first rainfall of the month, but which also introduced milder air. It remained cloudy, though things brightened a little around the 17th, when high pressure to our south brought a couple more days of quiet, clear weather. When that high drifted away south on the 19th, it was followed by a series of lively low pressure systems, which brought the wettest and windiest weather of the month, including a rumble or two of thunder and a little wet snow. That remained the pattern for the rest of the month, and more than made up for the quiet, dry start: a rainfall total of 64.6mm (2.5in) is our second-highest for February, and all of that fell in the second half of the February. The wettest day was the 14th with 14mm (0.6in). February was not particularly windy, but an unstable low which brought rain and thunder on the 23rd also generated the month’s highest gust of 33.9kts (39mph) early on the 24th. The end of February marks the end of Winter for meteorologists, and with two mild months and a cool one, the average temperature for this Winter was an unremarkable 5.7C (42F). There were no particularly hard frosts, but there was a record Winter high of 15.2C (59F) on 9th January. It was our second-wettest Winter since the station was set up in 2007, with a total of 236mm (9.3in) of rain – the wettest was, of course, last year with 369.8mm (14.6in). There was no repeat of last year’s gales, either – January saw some lively gusts with one reaching 41.7kts (48mph), but nothing to match 2014’s storms. I’m typing this on 1st March, the sun is shining and the sky is blue – Spring has arrived. Stephen Baggs; www.knollweather.co.uk “200+ Club” – March Draw The March draw took place at the Parish Hall Committee March meeting with the numbers drawn by committee members. The winning numbers were:-

March No. Prize Name First Prize 140 £ 20 Mrs P.I. Bull Battleborough Lane Brent Knoll Second Prize 217 £ 20 Mrs D.R. Bowden Wick Lane Brent Knoll Third Prize 301 £ 16 Mr M.E. Bulman School Lane Combwich Fourth Prize 186 £ 12 Mr & Mrs E.V. Champion Bridgwater Road Brent Knoll Fifth Prize 239 £ 12 Mrs M.A. Bryant Station Road Brent Knoll Sixth Prize 175 £ 10 Mrs E.A. Butt The Willows Brent Knoll Seventh Prize 289 £ 8 Mr S.E. Wallace Harp Road Brent Knoll Eighth Prize 267 £ 6 Miss R.V. Nussey Edinburgh Scotland You can see all the “200+ Club” winners on the village website at www.brentknollvillage.co.uk Thank you all for your continued support of the “200+ Club” and our Parish Hall. Bob 45 PLUMBING BY GEORGE! 302969 Brent Knoll · Small Jobs - Dripping Taps - Leaking Toilets, Outside Taps, Shower Replacements, etc. · Gas Boiler replacement, Radiators and System Upgrades, Boiler servicing · Limited time only - up to 7 year extended warranty on all new Worcester Boilers (accredited installer) · Bathroom Design and Installation Tel: 01278 760 543 Or 07813 321 197

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More Ramblings of a Rambler March saw me busy gathering timber for next Winter to replenish the stock used this Winter and also having a good burn up. Don't get me wrong I’m not an arsonist, but I do like a good old fashioned burn up, it’s very therapeutic and early March is the time to have one before the birds are nesting. That was not my only task; my two youngest granddaughters have acquired a pony. They are at the very beginning of their riding education and require being led on a lead rein. Now, when we visit them, my daughter says, “perhaps granddad would like to take you out on your pony.” This is no big thing as I did the same for my own two daughters some thirty years ago. So off we go at a gentle stroll, with me enjoying the countryside of West Somerset, which is where they live, until a voice from the saddle asks if we can do a rising trot. This requires me to run and after a dozen paces or so I then realise I am the other side of seventy and have to return to my gentle stroll, this is short lived and soon we have to repeat the procedure a few more times. Recent inspection of the Owl box erected in Judy’s memory, shows evidence of activity, we will not know as to whether it will be nested in until the season is over. Then an internal inspection can be carried out to determine success or not. Can I ask motorists to be vigilant and be on the lookout for a pair of ducks wandering the Village looking for somewhere to nest. Rooks and Crows are busy also, and do you know the difference? If you see one or two Rooks they are Crows, if you see more than two Crows together they are Rooks. It was late in February, after I had submitted my March entry, that I saw my first Woodcock of the season. On the flower front, the snowdrops are wilting and the Primroses and Violets will be well on the way by the time you read this. The Rambler RSPCA ‘Mutt Strutt’ Fundraising Dog Walk Get a spring in your step and walk off the Easter chocolate! 1 Help to raise money for less fortunate animals in your area and join us for a 2 /2 mile walk starting from the Apex Park Burnham on Sea 2pm on Sunday 12th April. You can get further details and sponsorship forms from our Animal Centre at Brent Knoll on 01278 782 671, from our shops or via our website: www.rspcanorthsomerset.org.uk All proceeds to the RSPCA North Somerset Branch (Registered charity no. 205284) Event in Marine Cove A few of us are hoping to put on an outdoor performance in Marine Cove on Saturday 20th June. I am on the hunt for any groups who would be interested in performing an excerpt from Shakespeare. No experience necessary, just a willingness to have a go. Contact Jacqui for more details or speak to Sam Nicol at The Princess Theatre. Please share amongst the groups and organisations you are involved with. We will also be selling tickets to raise money for both the garden and the theatre. If interested in bringing a picnic and enjoying and evening of light entertainment, do come. Jacqui Strong 48 USEFUL VILLAGE CONTACTS: PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL, Secretaryy Sandra Hanmer 01934 750076 PARISH ADMINISTRATOR Maryy Ford 769082 CHURCH WARDEN Miss Frances James 760287 Mike Smith 760691 CHURCH CLEANERS Wiet Harperp 760803 CHURCH FLOWERS Mrs g Marion Vining760612 POPPY ORGANISER Mrs Sally Wingate 760610 BRASS CLEANERS METHODIST CHURCH Revd. Margaretgpp Trapp 760573 Mrs Maryy Frost 783120 MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT Tessa Munt 01934 710748 COUNTY COUNCILLOR John Denbee 01934 712304 DISTRICT COUNCILLOR Bob Filmer 760760 Andrew g Gilling01934 750580 PARISH COUNCIL, Clerk Owen Cullwick 794463 Chairman Colin Townsend 760226 Planning enquiries Andrea Hurkett (Brent() Street +) 760099 Bella Ward (()Burton Row +) 760528 Footpathp Contact Peter Osborn 760839 PARISH HALL, Bookinggyy Secretary Jennyy Butters 760477 Bazaar Eddie Fuller 760308 Secretary Sandra Few 760451 Caretaker Richard Bream 760810 DOCTOR Dr g S L Aung760313 NHS NON-EMERGENCY URGENT MEDICAL HELPLINE 111 WRVS PRESCRIPTION SERVICE 760313 BRENT KNOLL PRIMARY SCHOOL Chris Burman 760546 TODDLERS GROUP Jane Hannah 760629 BRENT KNOLL TADPOLES PRE SCHOOL Cathyyy Hurley 769126 VILLAGE SHOP Caroline Chennells 760225 BRENT KNOLL NEWS, Production Editor Bob Filmer 760760 Distribution Elaine & Eddie Fuller 760308 POLICE NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER 101 RHYNE PROBLEMS Lower Axe Drainingg Board 789906 VILLAGE AGENT Kim Wilcox 07943 555519 NATIONAL TRUST HONORARY RANGER Ged Keele 769010 VILLAGE SOCIETIES: BRENT AMATEUR DRAMATICS (BAD)() Sarah Joyce y 787493 CANCER RESEARCH CAMPAIGN Mrs Janet Harris 760259 CONSERVATIVE BRANCH Bob Filmer 760760 ECUMENICAL GROUP Revd. Margaretg Trapp 760573 GOOD COMPANIONS Mrs Joyy Collett 760458 GUIDES / BROWNIES / RAINBOWS Jane Sinnott 760987 HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY (Burnham)() Mr L Wallis 760550 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION ()(Men’s Section) Rod Southwell 760445 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION ((Women’s Section) Liz Bream 760810 SHORT MAT BOWLING CLUB Alan Castle 760424 TENNIS CLUB David Outfin 783993 WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Janet Southwell 760445 WOMEN’S SOCIETY Julie Baker 751229 ST MICHAELS CHURCH, BRENT KNOLL - REVD. SIMON LEWIS Tel: 01278 760496 METHODIST MINISTER: THE REVD. MARGARET TRAPP Tel: 01278 760573 BAPTIST MINISTER: ()(Burnham) THE REVD. STEVE AYERS, Collegeg St. B.O.S. Tel: 783920 CATHOLIC PRIEST FATHER TOM KELLY, Burnham & Bridgwater Joint Parish Tel: 01278 422703 E&OE 49 The Red Cow Large Beer Garden FRIDAY NIGHT is Function Room CURRY Night - £6.00p Traditional Food Homemade Chicken Curry Popadom & Chutney Tel: 01278 760 234 OurOur Menu is available as a Take AwAwayay

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Diary for April 2015 Page 31st Mobile Library [NOTE Tuesday!!] See Village Notice Boards for Details 1st SORT IT+ Recycling & Rubbish Your House Early!! 2nd Table Tennis Club (Every Thursday) Nuttall Room 7.45pm 2nd Chalice Morris Men Practice (Every Thursday) Parish Hall 8.00pm-10pm 3rd Good Friday 3 4th & 5th Village Shop Open (closed Good Friday and Easter Monday) 12 5th Easter Egg Trail or refreshments St Michael’s Church 2.00pm-4.30pm 31 6th Easter Bank Holiday Monday 6th Easter Egg Trail or refreshments St Michael’s Church 2.00pm-4.30pm 31 7th Windows Carers Group (Every Tuesday) The Bay Centre 2.00-4.00pm 16 7th Parish Council – Public Session Jubilee Room 7.30pm 7 Parish Council – Meeting [Note Tuesday] Jubilee Room to follow immediately 7th Knoll Group of Ringers (Every Tuesday) St. Michael’s Church 7.30pm-9pm 8th Mobile Library [NOTE Wednesday!!] See Village Notice Boards for Details 8th Women’s Institute “Sarah Harris” Parish Hall 2.30pm 23 9th SORT IT+ Recycling & Green Waste [1 Day Late] Your House Early!! 9th Close of Nominations for Parish Council Elections (to Sedgemoor) 4.00pm 8 11th Bazaar, Farmers’ Market & Parish Café Parish Hall 10.00-12noon 8, 31 11th Tennis Club Quiz Night Parish Hall 7.30pm 15 12th RSPCA Mutt Strutt Apex Park 2.00pm 47 13th Parish Hall Committee Meeting Jubilee Room 8.00pm 31 14th Royal British Legion Women’s Section Red Cow 7.00pm 23 14th Lympsham Gardening Club Manor Hall, Lympsham 7.45pm 32 15th SORT IT+ Recycling & Rubbish Your House Early!! 15th DEADLINE FOR MAY BRENT KNOLL NEWS 12.00 noon 50 15th Good Companions – “Health & Wellbeing” Parish Hall 2.30pm 16 19th Sunday Tea Party 3.00pm 39 20th Meet & Eat Nuttall Room 12.30pm 28 20th WI Craft Group Methodist Schoolroom 2.30pm 16 20th Whist Drive IvyClad Hall 7.00pm 15 20th Parish Council Provisional Planning meeting Parish Hall 7.00pm 7 20th Annual Parish Meeting incl. Wessex Water Parish Hall 7.30pm 20 21st Church Banner Project Woodlands 10.00am 28 21st Toddlers (Every Tuesday) - Summer Term Methodist Schoolroom 10.30-12 noon 4 21st Girls Just Wanna Have Fun! “Race Night” Woodlands 7.30pm 12 22nd SORT IT+ Recycling & Green Waste Your House Early!! 23rd St George’s Day 25th Gracie Wickens-Sweet & Coastline Singers Parish Hall 7.30pm 24,31,36 27th Local History Society Jubilee Room 7.30pm 12 28th Mobile Library [NOTE Tuesday!!] See Village Notice Boards for Details 29th SORT IT+ Recycling & Rubbish Your House Early!! Anything missing? Make sure your events are listed in the Monthly Event Diary DEADLINE FOR THE MAY 2015 ISSUE – All contributions to be received by NOON on Wednesday, 15th April, to:- Bob, e-mail: [email protected] or Wascelyn, 48, Brent Street, Brent Knoll, TA9 4DT The Brent Knoll News welcomes all contributions. Views expressed are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor or represent the standpoint of the Brent Knoll News. The Editor reserves the right to edit or amend any contribution. BRENT KNOLL VILLAGE WEBSITE: www.brentknollvillage.co.uk