Kingsdon Parish Council Are Looking for Any Villagers Who Would Like to Sponsor a Tree in the Village

Issue No. 114 28th January 2017

Kingsdon Parish Council are looking for any villagers who would like to sponsor a tree in the village. The trees will be planted to replace the poplars which will be removed from Mow Barton Road and will be of a variety more suited to the environment.

Sponsored trees could have a small plaque with the name of the sponsor or indeed in memory of a loved one. Alternatively you might like to make a donation towards the cost of one or more trees.

Please contact the clerk on [email protected] or 01935 841275 as soon as possible so that the trees can be ordered before the growing season starts in the spring.

It is with much sadness that the death is announced of Veronica Spender. Veronica passed away on Wednesday 25th January. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

The next Kingsdon Parish Council Meeting will be at 7.30pm Thursday 9th February 2017 All Saints Church

Priest in Charge: Revd Alan Symonds Tel/Fax 01458 272029 (For arrangement of Baptisms, Weddings and other occasional services) Church Warden: Mrs Bel Allan Tel. 01935 840878 Parochial Church Council: Secretary Nicholas J. Allan Tel 01935 840878 Treasurer Alan Carnall Tel 01935 840692 Tower Captain: Jackie Ellis Tel 01935 840344 Church Services for February

Sunday 5th February 11 a.m. Communion Rev Adrian Hopwood

Sunday 12th February 9.30 a.m. Morning Prayer John Hutton

Sunday 19th February 6.00 p.m. Evensong Rev Adrian Hopwood

Sunday 26th February 9.30 a.m. Communion Anthea Reilly/Rev Alan Symonds

Church Rosters for February Brass: Flowers: Michelle Edgar & Lisa Newbery Kingsdon Village Hall Kingsdon Table Tennis Club

The Table Tennis Club play in the Village Hall on Tuesday evenings For all information (except bookings) contact: - between 7.30pm and 9.30pm. David Thomson, Park Farmhouse, Lower Rd. If you are interested then please contact Shirley or Martin Singleton Kingsdon TA11 7LL Tel:01935 841453 on 841162 or just come along.

For bookings contact Marilyn Elliott, 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon Seniors Club Kingsdon, TA11 7LW Tel 01935 841444 The Seniors Club meet on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 3pm in Email [email protected] the Village Hall. New members (any age) are always welcome. For information contact Club Secretary Marilyn Elliott, Bookings for February 2017 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon. Tel 01935 841444 email: [email protected] Short Mat Bowls Mondays 7.30pm - 9pm, and Tuesdays 10am - 12noon Kingsdon Boule & Croquet Club Table Tennis Club Tuesdays at 7.30pm Yeovil Dist. Canine Soc. Wednesdays 6.30pm The club meets every Thursday afternoon in members’ gardens be- Art Club Thursdays 10am - 12 tween 2 and 4 pm, weather permitting. For more details contact Pilates Fridays 9.30am - 10.30am Nina Carlisle 01935 840933 or email: [email protected] Private function Saturday 3rd 7pm Parish Council Meeting Thursday 9th Kingsdon Knitting Klub (Knitting for Good Causes) Practical Study Group Wednesday 15th. Seniors Club Wednesday 22nd. The Knitters meet on the second Saturday of the month at 10.30am to midday in the Community Shop. For information please contact: Linda Rumbles 01935 840132 or Babs Conway 01935 841811

The Kingsdon Jubilee Fund

Trustees: Chairman - K. Thomas, Secretary - I. Dibben, Treasurer - W. Elliott, G. Osborne, M. Freeman & M. Elliott

Kingsdon Cricket Club

Chairman : Marilyn Elliott 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon, Somerton, TA11 7LW Tel 01935 841444 07990673935 Secretary: Ian Birrell Watersmeet, Huish Episcopi, Langport. TA10 9HE Tel 01458 259231 07817959709 Trustees: B. Carlisle, I. Birrell, J. Schofield Captain / Treasurer: J. Schofield Vice-Captain: B. Chislett

The Kingsdon Chronicle The Kingsdon Chronicle is an independent journal published monthly and is financed by voluntary donation. Cheques payable to ‘The Kingsdon Chronicle’ The Kingsdon Chronicle welcomes correspondence from its readers. Name and address must be supplied but may be withheld from publication on request.. The Kingsdon Chronicle reserves the right to edit items for publication. Contributed letters and articles printed in The Kingsdon Chronicle do not necessarily reflect the views of The Kingsdon Chronicle production team. “All contributors are deemed to agree to their material in the Chronicle being published in the web copy on the village website. The editor will assume that all material supplied is original, or from copyright free sources. (It is the contributor’s responsibility to gain any necessary permissions and to provide acknowledgments).” Editor: Wallace Elliott, 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon. TA11 7LW Tel 01935 841444, Mobile 07990673935, Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.kingsdon.org/kingsdon-chronicle/ Page 2 Kingsdon Calendar - What’s happening, when and where? February March Date Day Time Event Location Date Day Time Event Location 1st Wed 6.30pm - YeovilDist. Canine Soc. Village Hall St David’s Day 1st Wed 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall 2nd Thu 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall 2nd Thu 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 3rd Fri 3rd Fri 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 7pm - Maria Colton’s party Village Hall 4th Sat 4th Sat Communion Rev Adrian All Saints All Saints 5th Sun 11am 5th Sun Hopwood Church Church 6th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 6th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall Recycling & Wheelie Bin Recycling & Wheelie Bin 7th Tue 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 7th Tue 7.30pm - Table Tennis Club Village Hall 6.45pm Jubilee Committee Meet Kingsdon Inn 7.30pm - Table Tennis Club Village Hall 8th Wed 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall 8th Wed 9th Thu 7.30pm Kingsdon P.C. Meeting Village Hall 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall 9th Thu 7.30pm Kingsdon P.C. Meeting Village Hall 10th Fri 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 10.30am - 12 Kingsdon Knitting Klub Community 10th Fri 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 11th Sat Shop 10.30am - 12 Kingsdon Knitting Klub Community 11th Sat Shop 12th Sun Church 9.30am Morning Prayer with All Saints 13th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 12th Sun John Hutton Church Recycling & Green Bin 14th Tue 13th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 10am to 4pm Practical Study Group Village Hall Valentine’s Day 15th Wed 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall 14th Tue Recycling & Green Bin 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 16th Thu 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall 10am to 4pm Practical Study Group Village Hall St Patricks Day 15th Wed 17th Fri 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 16th Thu 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall 18th Sat 7.30pm Take Art Village Hall 17th Fri 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 19th Sun Church 20th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 18th Sat Recycling & Wheelie Bin 6pm Evensong Rev Adrian All Saints 21st Tue 19th Sun 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall Hopwood Church 3pm to 4.30pm Kingsdon Seniors meeting Village Hall 22nd Wed 20th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall Recycling & Wheelie Bin 23rd Thu 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall 21st Tue 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 24th Fri 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 3pm to 4.30pm Kingsdon Seniors meeting Village Hall 22nd Wed 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall 25th Sat 7pm - Charity |Quiz Village Hall 23rd Thu 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall British Summer Mothering Sunday 26th Sun Time commences Church 24th Fri 9.30am - 10.30am Pilates Village Hall 1pm to 4pm Toasted Teacakes Community 27th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 25th Sat Shop Recycling & Green Bin 28th Tue 9.30am Communion with Anthea All Saints 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 26th Sun Reilly/Rev Alan Symonds Church 29th Wed 6.30pm - Y.D. Canine Soc. Village Hall 27th Mon 7.30pm - 9pm Short Mat Bowls Village Hall 30th Thu 10am - 12noon Art Club Village Hall Pancake Day 31st Fri 28th Tue Recycling & Green Bin 10am - 12noon Short Mat Bowls Village Hall

This is just a trial item. I also intend to list one off items for the whole year, such as (Saturday 8th July - Air day BBQ on village field)

Is something like this helpful, can it be done better or differently? Please let me have your views. You can leave a note for me at the shop or email me at [email protected] or [email protected] or text to 07990673935

Page 3 Do you remember the visit by the

Osiligi Maasai Warriors Kingsdon was privileged to host them for a celebration of their culture in All Saints Church, an amazing evening. During the course of that event we learned about the progress made in the past two decades to provide clean drinking water, build a place of worship and an orphanage.

The orphanage above, under construction in 2015, caters for 28 children, boys and girls and has accommodation for a housekeeper to look after the children. The orphanage also acts as a safe house for girls at risk early marriage and FGM. During the rainy season it also caters for many children from the area that are unable to travel home from school. It cost £44000 including fur- nishing, water and electricity from solar power. The village has also built a primary school, with eight classrooms, and now caters for over 300 children. The education of the school children requires a constant need for sponsorship. Kingsdon is looking to sponsor a child through its schooling. We need enough people to pledge £1 per month for as long as they feel able Already there is a list of people interested, but we need a few more; so if you feel able to support an ongoing link with the Osiligi Warriors village and their tireless efforts and work for their children please contact Norma on 01935 - 840727 Kingsdon Seniors Club

Richard South welcomed 26 members to the first meeting of 2017. After the announcements re future events Richard, with some lead–up jokes, introduced our guest speaker Dr Francis Burroughs, once again the guest speaker at a seniors meeting in Kingsdon.

Dr Burroughs is a retired school master and a director of several companies, including the Bristol Blue Glass Co. which the Kingsdon Seniors have visited. In his spare time, he has been a church organist for more than 50 years, a keen flower arrang- er, giving talks on the Victorian Head Gardener and is an acknowledged authority on antique glass. He has many years experience as a public speaker and has conducted or produced more than 200 Amateur Operatic Society productions and, of course, not all the drama happens on the stage!

His talk for this visit to Kingsdon was called ‘Being seated one day at the Organ’ It is amazing how many funny incidents can happen for a church organist, they certainly happened to Francis as he recounted many very humorous anecdotes. Dr Burroughs learned to play the organ as a boy and regularly played for services whilst still a lad. He told us that St James Church at Preston Plucknett, Yeovil, where he played. It was favoured by brides for weddings as it was more attractive than the larger parish church of St John in Yeovil, which was favoured for funerals much to annoyance of that organist, as the fees for weddings were one guinea and only ten shillings and sixpence for a funeral.

The talk at the next meeting on 22nd February is entitled ‘How Parliament Works’ …….”that wont take long” remarked Dr Burroughs, it is however said to be a very funny talk!

Tea & Biscuits were provided by Julie South & Tina Chilcott. Page 4 Yes Take art is back

On Saturday 18th March 2017 In Kingsdon Village Hall At 7.30.pm

With an evening of music and dancing to

Son Yambu

Featuring a new generation of Cuban musicians, passionate about maintaining the traditions of Cuban music; this band gives a con- temporary edge, bringing their audiences a truly sensational authen- tic Latin experience.

Tickets available soon priced at £10 each With a free pre-show dance workshop at 6.15pm

“The UK’S very own Buena Vista Band, absolutely tremendous…extraordinary music” Sean Rafferty, BBC Radio 3

“ The real sound of Santiago de Cuba” Simon Broughton, London Evening Standard

Please put the date in your diary as tickets will be limited to a maximum of 80

Maria’s Party

Maria is worried that she has missed out some of her friends with the invitation to her ‘Thank you Party’. She would love to receive any late acceptances , if you can make it, please contact her a.s.a.p.

Thanks

P.s. Her good news is that she went back to work last Tuesday, part time to start with and working up to full time after 6 weeks.

Page 5 Page 6 STRAIGHT FROM COW TO KITCHEN By Peter Crowter

I’m sure some of you will remember, when milk came with cream on the top, It wasn’t in plastic or litres, and couldn’t be bought in a shop. And back in the forties in Kingsdon, a farmer brought milk to our door, That is how it was delivered, during and just after the war.

A horse and a cart was his transport, to carry his churns and his yoke, Along with your pint in the morning, he often delivered a joke. The yoke was to carry two buckets, each one on the end of a chain, The yoke fitted onto his shoulders, and they took the bulk of the strain.

The ladies brought jugs out to meet him, ‘Now how much this morning my dear?’ He’d dip out their milk with a measure, along with a measure of cheer. The village was shattered one morning, he didn’t return from his round, The poor man was dead when they found him, beside him his gun on the ground.

A true friend was lost to the village, so where would we get our milk now, Well, Bondip Farm took on the business, and still it came straight from the cow. But they didn’t want to deliver, they thought up an easier plan, Let customers come to the farmyard, and fetch their own pint in a can.

We left jugs and cans on a table, and they were a motley display, Our pints were dished out in our absence, we picked up our milk cans next day. Then one day some government body, said milk had to be sterilised, Selling raw milk was illegal, now it had to be pasteurised.

We had to buy milk from a dairy, where they could destroy all the bugs, No longer could we buy the fresh stuff, and carry it home in our jugs. The milk was delivered in bottles, that had cardboard caps for a seal, Bluetits soon learned to peck through them, to see how much cream they could steal.

A sound we all heard in the mornings, the rattle of bottles in crates, The sound of the milkman’s arrival, as he opened the latch on our gates. But now once again it’s all different, these sounds we don’t hear anymore Most of us when we go shopping, buy all our own milk from a store.

AVIAN INFLUENZA (BIRD FLU) OUTBREAK IN THE UK

As you will be aware there have been a number of Avian Influenza outbreaks in the UK and a Prevention Zone was declared in December that covers the whole of the UK.

The prevention zone means that all poultry keepers – whether on a commercial scale or simply a small backyard flock – are now required by law to house them (keep them under cover) or otherwise keep them separate from wild birds. This require- ment (the Prevention Zone) has now been extended until 28 February 2017. They have also banned gatherings of poultry across the UK.

It is also important that poultry keepers must continue to keep a close watch on the health of their birds, and take steps to reduce the risk of infection via the environment, for example in wild bird droppings, by practising good biosecurity. They should do this even if your birds are inside. If they are concerned it is important that they contact their Vet.

This has been necessary because the same Avian Flu strain has also been found in wild birds in England, Scotland and Wales. DEFRA have taken this action to reduce the risks and help protect poultry and captive birds from avian flu.

Although we have been putting the message out on social media, not everyone uses or looks at a computer. So to help us get this very important message to get out to everyone we would ask if something could be included in the parish magazine and/ or put up in the village to raise awareness.

The Food Standards Agency advise that bird flu does not pose a food safety risk for UK consumers. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.

We have also attached DEFRA's “How to keep your birds safe from Avian Influenza (bird flu)” leaflet which could also be displayed.

Should you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us.

Nicola L J Pearce

Page 7 Kingsdon Parish Councillors / District Councillor / County Councillor / M.P.

Cllr. David Beswick Kate Hatt Cllr. Brian Paine Chairman Kingsdon Parish Council Clerk Vice-Chairman Arnor, Top Street, Kingsdon TA11 7JU Bluebell House, Mow Barton Road, Westgate, Top Street, Kingsdon TA11 7JU Email: [email protected] Kingsdon.. TA11 7DX Tel: 01935 841275 Email: [email protected] Tel: 01935 840795 Email [email protected]. Tel: 01935 842058 (environment, allotments, trees and church link) (Former school field parish council link )

Cllr. Guy Osborne Cllr. Susan J. Mackay Cllr. Ian Dibben Delimara, Pitts Lane, Kingsdon TA11 7LL Cottage Barn, Top Street, 27 Kingsdon TA11 7LF [email protected] Kingsdon TA117JU Email: [email protected] Tel: 01935 841137 07951067872 Tel: 01935 840023 Tel: 01935 840726 07967272432 (Highways, verges and footpaths) [email protected] (Village hall link and footpaths)

Cllr. Phillip Waters Cllr. Wallace Elliott The Old Bakery, Chapel Hill, Kingsdon TA11 7LN 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon, TA11 7LW [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 07815898065 Tel: 01935 841444 07990 673935 (Drains, ditches, litter and flytipping, (Village field, emergency contact person, working party of field) communications, playground checks)

South Somerset District Councillor Member of Parliament for County Councillor David Norris Somerton & Frome Dean Ruddle 62 High Street, Wincanton David Warburton Freshfields, Cartway Lane, Somerset, BA9 9JF Unit G9, Woodside Court, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 6JH Tel: 01963 34535 Dairy House Yard, Sparkford, BA22 7LH Tel: 07976 556054 [email protected] Tel: 01373 580500 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

The next Parish Council will be held on Thursday 9th February 2017 in Kingsdon Village Hall commencing at 7.30pm Page 8 DRAFT MINUTES OF THE KINGSDON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 12th JANUARY 2017 IN THE VILLAGE HALL AT 7.30pm

Parishioner comment time: The chairman of the village hall committee had received an enquiry from a scout group about booking the village hall and would like some green space i.e. sport field to use as well, B.Paine has the matter in hand. A parishioner is concerned about the state of the muddy road around by the building works in Manor Road. The builders have been advised of this issue.

Present: D. Beswick (chairman), B. Paine (vice-chairman), W. Elliott, I. Dibben, G. Osborne, Sue Mackay, and P. Waters, (Parish Councillors); D. Ruddle (County Councillor), D. Norris (District Councilor) Lynn Moore (RFO) and Kate Hatt (Parish Clerk) plus 4 parishioners.

1. Apologies: None

2. Declarations of Interest: As already declared, no changes.

3. Minutes: The minutes of the monthly parish council meeting held on the 8th December 2017, which had been previously circulated were proposed by B. Paine and seconded by W. Elliott, were approved and signed as all in favour.

4. Matters arising not covered by agenda items: K.Hatt – sent the donation to citizen advice P.Waters -nothing extra to report on the tree plan but it is in hand and he is meeting with a couple of parishioners about gain- ing trees from the woodland trust. Phil Poulten SSDC is looking at the permission to take the poplars down. A parishioner has an ornamental pear tree that she would like to donate, possibly plant up towards the allotments. The location was discussed. She will be talking to planning and to the local neighbours first. B.Paine proposed we accept this donation, seconded by I.Dibben, all in favour. I.Dibben will be having a meeting about planting trees on the boundaries of Kingsdon. Trees on Pitts lane – are we moving these? As they are too close together and too near the hedge, they will get damaged when the hedge is trimmed. P.Waters to look into further. D.Beswick – Jenny does not want to put her sheep in the field.

5. Chairman’s Report: The poplars on Mowbarton Road – we have received a final quotation to take all three down in the road for £1150, not felling into the field. If councillors content, we will go ahead. He will log them, leave on side of the road and along with the chippings for the residents to take away. B. Paine reminded us that we must remember the re-planting and wants this planned before we go ahead. The residents in Mowbarton are donating £600, so cost will be £550. We may need to buy some more substantial trees for the replanting. Dean Ruddle said that Oak tree avenue in Somerton was sponsored by people in the town. It could be possible that people in our village would like to sponsor a tree for replanting. Action – K.Hatt to write a note about donating trees for the Chronicle. A parishioner said they would be happy to donate £100 for a tree. B.Paine is proposing we wait until the replanting arrangements were in hand, seconded by S.Mackay, all in favour.Action – P.Waters/B.Paine to source new trees for replanting.

The money for this may also be able to come from the VAT rebate due. D.Beswick emphasised that we must have this plan by the next meeting. I.Dibben said that we must make sure we see the contractor’s public liability insurance and risk assessment D.Beswick asked about the gate and where did the first idea come from? It came from Austin Attwell if he was cutting the grass. So do we need a new gate? The only problem is cutting the hedge by the allotments, we could employ someone to hand trim the hedge. It was decided to leave the idea of changing the gate until the field was in the ownership of the Parish Council.

6. Correspondence: Letter received from Citizen Advice thanking us for our contribution. Playground risk assessment letter received. Councillors decided that we must book this. Action – K.Hatt to book.

7.1 and 7.2 Finance- report and cheque signing. Interest paid into our savings account - £4.50.

KPC Account 01.12.2016 £15,489.11 Clerk Services - DECEMBER £75.00 Net Cheque Balance £600.00 Transfer In £0.00 Transfer Out £0.00 Domain Name Renewal 1 year £14.39 31.12.2016 £14,889.11 Kingsdon Village hall hire £62.18

Savings Account 01.12.2016 £33,300.03

Net Cheque Balance £0.00 These payments were proposed by B.Paine, seconded by Interest £4.15 W.Elliott, all in favour. Transfer In £0.00 D.Beswick wonders if we have about £300 left? He has tak- Transfer Out £0.00 en account of rent for allotments and fields, clerk services 31.12.2016 £33,304.18 and field loan repayment. This was discussed.

There is some money left in reserves to buy trees should we need to before the end of the financial year. VAT refund documentation still needs to be processed. Action – L.Moore/B.Paine

Quarterly report was looked at by the Councillors. Any questions? None. Page 9 7.3 Budget: B.Paine had circulated a spreadsheet which took into consideration the comments from parishioners and councillors at the last meeting. There was a version D which showed increasing the precept to £17,725, effectively an increase of 48p per week on a band D property. D.Beswick suggested a few variations that would bring it down, the key one was reduce figure of trees from £2000 to £550, as we now have the final quotation and can use VAT refund for new trees. Also maintenance of the village field could be put at £700 to cover notice board. Various amendments were made and agreed upon, this resulted in a 19% increase, equivalent to an increase per week of 32p a week for a band D house. We need money to get things done. We are catching up for lack of diligence and activity in previous years. B.Paine proposed that the precept figure be accepted, W.Elliott seconded, majority were in favour.

8. Former Primary School sports field : B.Paine has regularly spoken to the County Council but reductions in staff- ing levels and sickness absence have stretched their resources to the limit, constraining their ability to be constantly chasing the DFE. Having sent off the Section 77 documentation to the DFE in the first week in September 2016, which was acknowledged, we are still waiting for their response.

13. Date of next meeting: Thursday 9th February 2017, 7.30pm.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 8.17pm Draft MINUTES OF THE KINGSDON PLANNING MEETING HELD ON Thursday 12th January 2017 IN THE VALLAGE HALL, after the monthly meeting

Present: David Beswick (chairman) Brian Paine (Vice-Chairman), Wally Elliott, Ian Dibben, Guy Osborne, Sue Mackay and Phil Waters (Parish Councillors), Kate Hatt (Parish Clerk) and 3 parishioners.

1. Apologies: None

2. Declarations of Interest: None

3. Previous minutes: The minutes of the last planning meeting were read, approved and signed. This was proposed by B.Paine, seconded by W.Elliott, all were in favour.

4. Planning approvals: None received.

5. Planning applications: To consider a planning application, 16/05221/FUL, Kingsdon Estate, change use of land and building to dwelling house and domestic cartilage together with the erection of a detached car port. Barns at Bon- dip Farm, Bondip Hill.

Any views? B.Paine only concern having looked at the barns it would be a complete rebuild rather than conversion. There does not appear to be anything we can legally object on. There is a gas line which still needs to be sorted. The councillors had no comments or objections to make to the planning officer. D.Beswick proposed that we accept the application, seconded by G.Osborne, all in favour.

ACTION: K Hatt to email the planning inspector the decision.

Meeting closed at 8.23pm. S.S.D.C. Approval of Planning Applcation

Application No: 16/05206/FUL Application Status: Application permitted with conditions Applicant: Capt A and Mrs S Steel-Perkins Location: Brincil Cottage, Rocky Hill, Kingsdon, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 7LA, Proposal: Erection of an extension/annexe

Mud on Cary Hill Road Kingsdon to Lytes Cary Action taken by Kingsdon Parish Council

The contractor causing the mud was ascertained as JA Habberfield. David Beswick (Chair of Council) spoke with the drivers and in the absence of a telephone number sent the contractor an e-mail. David has also reported the problem to Highways who will send someone out to look at the problem.

Page 10 Draft Agenda for the Kingsdon Parish Council Meeting to be held on February 9th 2017 in the Village Hall, Kingsdon, starting at 7.30pm - All welcome

Parishioner’s comment time – If you have any comments related to the following agenda items please do contact any councillor should you not be able to make the meeting in person. Apologies – to receive and approve any apologies for non-attendance Declarations – to receive any declarations of interest Minutes of previous meeting – to receive and approve the minutes of the monthly meeting held on the 12th January 2017. Matters arising not covered by agenda- to report on actions from the previous meeting: K.Hatt – playground risk assessment, L.Moore and B.Paine – VAT refund documentation completed? Chairman’s Report - David Beswick to report and make any comments on any important information. Correspondence - Clerk and Councillors to report on any communications not covered by the agenda items. Finance - Financial report – report on current finances by the responsible finance officer and bank reconciliations Cheque signing – cheques which have been paid and cheques for signing New Trees – discuss trees sourced for replanting on Mow Barton Road Defibrillator training – to discuss whether to hold some defibrillator training for the village Kingsdon Manor Development- to discuss the S.106 contributions. Date of next meeting CLERK TO THE PARISH COUNCIL Mrs K. Hatt 01935 841275 [email protected]

THIS IS A DRAFT AGENDA AND SUBJECT TO SOME CHANGES THE FINAL AGENDA WILL BE

Thank You letter to Kingsdon Knitting Klub

Page 11 KINGSDON VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING

(DRAFT) Minutes of the Meeting held on Thursday 5th January 2017 at The Kingsdon Inn , Kingsdon at 7.00pm.

Present: Marilyn Elliott - Chairman, David Thomson - Secretary, Ian Dibben - Treasurer, Wally Elliott - Elected, Tim Owen – Seniors’ Club, Guy Osborne - Elected

1: Apologies/Membership: The Chairman confirmed that following the recent cessation of the ladies’ club, Shirley Singleton– Ladies’ Club Representative has resigned from the committee.

2: Minutes of the Last Meeting: Draft Minutes of the 4th May 2016 Management Committee Meeting (MCM) were reviewed and accepted as an accurate record of that meeting. The Chairman signed the minutes as such. Notes: All draft minutes have been published in The Kingsdon Chronicle, as previously agreed. ACTION - DT

3: Matters Arising

3.1 Electrical Works: The Chairman reported that a qualified electrician had inspected the hall’s electrical installation in total , and had prepared and delivered his report and recommendations. Work will commence during late January/ February. The smoke alarm is nor required and will not be fitted as previously discussed. ACTION - ME

3.2 Storeroom: Despite the previous clean-up the storeroom was once again in an untidy and disorganised state. A number of items had been broken and some items in storage were a mystery. It was agreed that the room would be tidied again, the unknown items would be disposed of and in the future the door would be kept locked at all times. ACTION – ME/ID/GO

3.3 Regular Inspections: Tim Owen reported on his regular inspections of the property which had proved to be very beneficial in monitoring hall conditions and identifying new issues quickly. Fixed wiring, electricity testing, Fire Extin- guishers and PAT testing all being completed with proof/record of testing maintained. Tim Owen recommended that an additional toilet ( not urinal ) be provided in the Male Toilets as Men had to queue. It was noted that Ladies regularly had to queue. Action - TO

3.4 Hall Bookings: The Chairman reported on the weekly bookings activities. The regular bookings have been maintained.. Occasional (children’s) party bookings were proving very popular. A Scouts Group Booking before Christmas had been very successful , including the preparation and cooking of a Christmas lunch for 40!

3.5 Facilities: Following the cessation of the Ladies’ Club, the allocated kitchen cupboard will be vacated. It was noted that the crockery bought by The Jubilee Fund is the property of the Village Hall. Action - GO

3.6 Internet Bookings: The Scouts’ booking had resulted from internet based search/enquiries. It was agreed that more work was required on the internet site as this would be important in generating future bookings. Action - ME

3.7 106 Money – Former Manor School: It was noted previously that “ s106” monies only become payable once three properties have been sold. The PC would lead an application and would need to identify a specific project. ACTION – ME

3.8 Heating: As always during the colder months, this was once again a problem. It was agreed to pursue the possible upgrading of the electrical heating. Quotes would be obtained. Action – ME.

3.9 Grants: It was reported that a new Community Council Grant might be available. It was agreed to investigate an application for funds to help with redecoration, heating and additional toilet (Male Toilets) Action – ID

3.10 Asbestos: For clarification: The roof has been inspected. No asbestos was found to be present.

4: VHAC: The Village Hall Action Committee (VHAC) is a sub-committee established to actively monitor the progress of the going maintenance of the building on a weekly/monthly basis. Members are ID, GO, WE, ME, AT.

4.1 New Cooker: A new cooker had been purchased/installed, the main hall floor cleaned and a new external notice board erected. Thanks recorded and sent to Martin Singleton and Jacques Powder Coating – Somerton for their assistance with the noticeboard.

5: Health and Safety: H&S Items had been discussed under Item 4 above. Further, noted that ID and TO would continue to review the 2 inspection logs weekly, and commission any ( emergency) works required. The following items have been completed/ inspected/ reviewed: Fire Extinguishers-Bristol Fire. Annual PAT and Fixed Wiring Inspections. Insurance Certifications. Performing Rights legal requirements. Disabled Parking / Parking restriction. Emergency Exit – Stage Door. Emergency lighting. Car Park cleanliness/ safety. ACTION – ID/TO

6: Finance: Ian Dibben Treasurer reviwed the current financial situation year to date. Booking Price Review: A discussion took place on the Village Hall’s current pricing structure. It was agreed that prices should rise annually automatically by an agreed formula, related to either increased costs and/or inflation. For 2017 , the review would be undertaken and implemented asap, with one month’s notice given to all existing bookings. Future increases would be discussed/reviewed at the January MC meetings and operate from the beginning of the financial year. All Bookings should be made aware in writing of possible annual pricing changes due 1st April annually. (include on booking documentation) Action – ME, ID and GO

7. Take Art: It was reported that the next event would be held at the Village Hall. (Saturday 18th March)

8. Maintenance.

8.1 Electrical Installation: As previously reported ( refer Item 3.1 )

8.2 Heating: As previously discussed.( refer Item 3.8)

8.3 Stage Back Cloth and Frame: This was now available and awaiting final installation Page 12 8.4 Windows: Due to the poor state of the windows it was agreed to investigate replacement double glazed windows. Contact Somerton Windows for a quote. Action – ID

8.5 Flooring: Skirting Repairs . Action – GO

8.6 Storeroom: See para 3.2 Action Party - one Saturday morning. Local school have agreed to take staging blocks. Action – ME/WE/GO

9 Long Term/Projects - Future of the Kingsdon Village Hall (Structure): The position remains as previously documented and the Parish Council , as owners, have been informed accordingly . The future of the village hall to be a subject of the village plan. Action - ME and PC

10. AOB No items raised.

11. Dates of Next Meetings: FY 2017/18 Village Hall meetings were agreed as follows: 1. 2017 AGM Thursday 4th May 2017 - The Village Shop. 2. 2. MCMs - Thursday 4th May 2017 , and Thursday 4th January 2018 These meetings will be advertised within the village hall, and by both the Village website and the Kingsdon Chronicle. The VHAC will continue to meet weekly/monthly as required There being no further business, The Chairman thanked those in attendance and closed the meeting at 8.15pm.

David C Thomson

Hon. Secretary Kingsdon Village Hall.

Kingsdon 100+ Club

December Draw Winners

Collection Dates for Kingsdon in February The Draw was made at the Village Shop on 24th December by Wheelie Bins - Tuesdays 7th and 21st 1st £50 Gillian Carnall Recycling - Tuesdays 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th 2nd £20 Tim Taylor Green Bins - Tuesdays 14th & 28th 3rd £15 Robert Adeney

New home wanted for a Hostess Trolley which is going FREE .

This warming oven has 6 top level serving glass containers with metal lids.

Please phone Isobel on 07736 572789 Page 13 Kingsdon Community Shop News

Thank you for the terrific support that all you fantastic villagers gave the shop over the festive period - especially Christmas Eve when it was heaving. (Though Wally’s mulled cider may have just had something to do with it JJJ ) It was lovely to see you all in there and a good time was had by all. We look forward to seeing you all throughout 2017 where you are free to join us for a cuppa and a chat as always. A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL

Dates for February Toasted Tea - cake day returns 25th February 1pm – 4pm Ladies knitting club – 2nd sat in February

New Sign We have taken delivery of the shop sign and this is now up. We think it looks great and blends in nicely with the overall surroundings.

Shop Specials Look for the Managers special on Pinot Grigio – Only while stocks last!

Reminder All good so far – but just a timely reminder for all you responsible parents out there that we are unable to supply certain items to minors – so please do not send them up for items that may be subject to age-restrictions ie: Matches, Firelighters, Medicines, Bleach/cleaning chemicals etc, Oh, yes ….also the alcohol too!

The View through the key hole !

Page 14 Thank You

62nd Bristol Scout Group The end Rozel Road Bristol, BS7 8SQ December 31, 2016

Dear All Saints' Parish Church:

I am writing to you on behalf of my fellow scouts to thank you for a lovely carol service on the evening of the 18th and welcoming us warmly to the village.

We were in the village for a very un-scout like camp, Christmas camp, the first in 62nd History. We were staying in Kingsdon village hall and after a quick trip to the hall to drop of our bags off, we went to the octagon theatre and enjoyed Peter Pan, and we even got a photo with Peter Pan and Hook after the show. Then we travelled back to cook a meal of bolognaise, this was our Christmas Eve. After a lovely Christmas morning breakfast, we went for a walk around the village, around HMS Kingsdon, the church and the phone box/library. After a large amount of food preparation, we had a lovely Christmas dinner and a secret Santa !

After all this we wondered down to the church to the beautiful sound of bells ringing. It was a lovely service with a beautiful choir to go with it, I hope you didn't think our singing was too bad but we made an effort, even though some very enthusias- tic scouts, at the back, on every verse came in a beat early.

We thank you again for your hospitality and your welcoming hand and a happy new year to everyone in the parish.

Many thanks, James Bennett on behalf of 62nd Bristol Scouts

P.S. If you would like to see the photos of our time in Kingsdon. Please go to http://62ndbristol.co.uk/ then click scouts - 2016 - Christmas Camp. My name is Ryan and I’m on the casting team at Ricochet TV part of warner bros TV production UK www.ricochet.co.uk

We are making a new television show for BBC2 called “The repair shop”; the show looks into repairing beloved and interesting possessions for people who would like to see them restored or repaired back to their original working order. The kind of items we have come across so far have ranged from inherited pocket watches to grandfather clocks, from rocking horses to drawn carriages, even from toy cars to VW campers. We have a team of experts who cover all trades such as black- smithing, ceramics, clockmakers, upholsterers and carpenters

I am wondering if you might to be able to help spread the word amongst your parishes, networks and communities to see if anyone has an items that might be suitable they’d like to put forwards?

Additionally, as well as sentimental/interesting items belong- ing to individuals….we’d really love to feature and repair a few items in the show that have a community value, something treasured or something essential to communities that has fallen into disrepair, perhaps has an interesting story and purpose to the village/town that can be restored.

For example some towns, villages and communities have certain items that are important to them; they could be memorial plaques, eroded statues, snapped weather vanes, broken sun dials, cracked gargoyles, fading carvings, or maybe the paint is peeling on your local pubs swing sign and can let them know we could them

Please note that although a lot of things can be moved, items would need to not be permanently stuck in situ, for example some larger statues or water fountains are grand logistically feats to move. The item would be repaired at our repair shop (a barn outfitted for our experts) and given back to the community at no expense to the owner - additionally there would be broadcasted tv coverage from start to finish of the item, in the work shop and also when the item is revealed to the owner or community.

Please also note that we are receiving a lot of items and interest across the country, and sometimes they can be too big and take too long to fix, so please don’t be disheartened if we can’t repair it this time If you’re happy to please share this information amongst your community that would be appreciated greatly. If perhaps you might have something you’d love to be repaired, then please get back in touch with us at re- [email protected] or call us on 01273 224800 , I’ve attached a flyer with information

Best wishes and thank you for your time

Ryan Leigh, Casting Team / The Repair Shop

Ricochet Ltd, Pacific House,126 Dyke Road, Brighton BN1 3TE, Tel: 01273 224800 Fax: 01273 770350 www.ricochet.co.uk, Registered in England, Registration No 04053062 Page 15 People go on vacation to forget things... Just read that 4,153,237 people got married last year ... not Then they open their travel bags and find that they did. to cause any trouble, but shouldn't that be an even number? Two newlyweds quickly realized their marriage wasn't working and filed for a divorce. The judge asked them what Today a man knocked on my door and asked for a small the problem was. The husband replied: "In the five weeks donation towards the local swimming pool. I gave him a that we've been together, we haven't been able to agree on a glass of water. single thing." The judge turned to the wife: "Have you anything to say?" I want to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfa- She answered: "It's been six weeks, your honour." ther. Not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car. The crocodile walked into a trendy menswear store, ap- proached the assistant and asked, "Do you have any shirts If I had a dollar for every girl that found me unattractive, with pictures of people on the pocket?" they would eventually find me attractive.

A woman took her dog to the parlour for a haircut and asked I find it ironic that the colours red, white, and blue stand what it would cost. Being told that it would cost her £50, she for freedom until they are flashing behind you. was outraged. "I only pay 30 pounds for my own haircut!" she said. When wearing a bikini, women reveal 90 % of their The groomer replied, "That may be true. But then you don't body ... men are so polite they only look at the covered bite, do you?" parts.

Who invented fractions? … Henry the 1/8th! A recent study has found that women who carry a little extra weight, live longer than the men who mention it. On New Year's Eve at the local Inn, Mary stood up in the bar and said that it was time to get ready. At the stroke of mid- Relationships are a lot like algebra. Have you ever looked night, she wanted everyone to be standing next to the one at your X and wondered Y? person who made their life worth living. As the clock struck 12, chaos erupted as the bartender was You know that tingly little feeling you get when you like almost crushed to death. someone? That's your common sense leaving your body.

A married couple is traveling to visit family by car. Being Did you know that dolphins are so smart that within a few seniors, after almost eleven hours on the road, they were too weeks of captivity, they can train people to stand on the tired to continue and decided to get a room. They only very edge of the pool and throw them fish? planned to sleep for four hours and then get back on the road. When they checked out four hours later, the desk I think my neighbor is stalking me as she's been googling clerk handed them a bill for £350.00. The man explodes and my name on her computer. I saw it through my telescope demands to know why the charge is so high. He told the last night. clerk although it’s a nice hotel the rooms certainly aren’t worth £350.00 for four hours. Then the clerk tells him that I hate when I am about to hug someone sexy and my face £350.00 is the ‘standard rate’. He insisted on speaking to the hits the mirror. Manager. The Manager appears, listens to him, and then explains that the hotel has an Olympic-sized pool and a huge You're not fat, you're just ... easier to see. conference centre that were available for them to use. “But we didn’t use them” the husband said. If you think nobody cares whether you're alive, try miss- “Well, they are here, and you could have,” explained the ing a couple of payments. Manager. The Manager went on to explain that the couple could also have taken in one of the shows for which the hotel is famous. “We have the best entertainers from New York, “Didn’t you suspect burglars had been in the house when Hollywood, and Las Vegas perform here,” the Manager you saw all the drawers pulled out and the contents scat- says. “But we didn’t go to any of those shows” the husband tered all over the floor?” asked the policeman. said. “No," began the wife, "I just thought my husband had “Well, we have them, and you could have.” the Manager been looking for a clean shirt.” replied. No matter what amenity the Manager mentioned, the husband replied, “But we didn’t use it!” The Manager is un- A pick pocket was pronounced guilty and sentenced to moved, and eventually the husband gave up and agreed to pay a £200 fine by the judge. His defence lawyer, know- pay. As he didn’t have the cheque book, he asked his wife ing that his client could not pay the fine, pleaded with the to write the cheque. She did and gave it to the Manager. The judge asking, “Your honour, my client can only afford Manager is surprised when he looks at the cheque. “But £50. But if you allow him a few minutes in the crowd…" ma’am, this is made out for only £50.00.” “That’s correct. I charged you £300.00 for sleeping with me,” she replied. “But I didn’t” exclaims the Manager. My goal for 2017 is to lose 10 pounds…….Only 15 to go! “Well, too bad, I was here, and you could have.”

Don’t mess with senior citizens…They didn’t get that age by I don’t mean to brag but…..I finished my 14 day diet in 3 being stupid! hours 20 minutes.

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Thinking about selling or letting your property?

Looking for a new home in the local area? Then look no further. …

Kingsdon Resident Gabby Osborne is your local property expert & the new Branch Manager at Palmer Snell in Somerton.

Gabby has lived in Kingsdon for over 20 years & has been an estate agent in the local area for 9 years.

Who better to sell your property than someone who knows the area, knows the market & is passionate about the village.

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