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The Parish of Three Saints St Christopher, Lympsham St Michael, Brent Knoll St Mary, East Brent Contacts Baptisms Rector of The Benefice of Three Saints To arrange a Baptism, contact the Rector or Church Reverend Kevin Wright Administrator. The Rectory, 3 Ash Trees, East Brent, Somerset, TA9 4DQ Please also see Church of England website for more Tel 01278 760844 or Mobile 07764 170463 information- www.churchofenglandchristenings.org e-mail - [email protected] Weddings Friday is the Vicar's day of rest Weddings can be arranged by contacting our Church Church Administrator – Mrs Carole Carter Administrator who will discuss with you availability of dates Church Office, Church Road, East Brent, Somerset, TA9 4HZ and times, also talk with you about the qualifying Tel 01278 769082 connection you must have with the Parish and to take your contact details. e-mail [email protected] You will then be contacted by The Rector to arrange a Office is open Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10.00 – 1.00 mutually convenient time to meet to discuss your Website www.theparishofthreesaints.org.uk commitment and requirements. Churchwardens Please also see Church of England website for more St Michael’s, Brent Knoll information- www.yourchurchwedding.org Frances James 01278 760287 Funerals Mike Smith 01278 760691 / [email protected] Your chosen Funeral Director will contact our Church Church Treasurer – Jim Hanmer Administrator or Rector to arrange your requirements. 01934 750076 / [email protected] ******************* Visit our website – www.theparishofthreesaints.org.uk PCC Secretary – Mrs Carole Carter Facebook: TPOTS 01278 769082 / [email protected]� Twitter: @TPOTS6 Public Worship and Private Prayer - October 2020 Date Live in church Recorded online Oct 4th 10am Eucharist – St Mary, East Brent Prayer and reflection 11th 10am Morning Prayer – St Michael, BK Café Church NOON Baptism at St Christopher’s 18th 10am TPOTS Harvest Eucharist and APCM – Prayer and Reflection St C 25th 10am Morning Prayer – St Mary, EB Eucharist *Online worship can be accessed on YouTube Search for “Three Saints Revd Kevin” or go to www.theparishofthreesaints.org for a link Remembrance Sunday & Christmas – please await further information as guidance is updated. PRIVATE PRAYER We are not able to facilitate opening the churches buildings for private prayer safely. If you would like to pray with someone, please contact The Rector, The Revd Kevin Wright (01278 760844), or one of the coordinators of the Pastoral Care Team, Anthony Barkle (07701081077), or Ginnie Soffe (01278 769117). For your safety The church buildings are currently locked at all other times. Please do not ask for access. Please check at www.theparishofthreesaints.org for latest updates Kevin Wright
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METHODIST CHURCH (www.brentknollmethodistchurch.com) Minister Revd. Steve Bennett I must admit that it’s quite difficult to write of our news at Brent Knoll Methodist Church at this time as we have yet to re-open for public worship. We want, of course, to ensure that every safeguarding measure is in place before we welcome our friends back into our chapel and the wellbeing of our congregation is of paramount importance. We have kept in touch with one another, to ensure each other’s wellbeing and have provided and offered pastoral support. But it’s really not the same as meeting weekly to worship and to physically chat face-to-face with each other. But we know that when we do open for worship and fellowship, that time will be all the more special. At this time of year (mid-September), I would normally be writing about our anticipation of our Harvest Festival and looking forward to our shared lunch afterwards. But in this strange new normal of ours, we are all very grateful to our minister Rev Steve Bennett who is leading a Zoom Harvest Festival service this coming Sunday. Harvest is a festival which truly resonates with all who live in a rural community such as ours, and although we will not be in our chapel, we are grateful that we can come together to celebrate the many good things for which we are truly blessed, albeit virtually. We will especially be thinking of all those who are not as fortunate and, in these ever changing and uncertain times, are increasingly reliant on the Foodbank. And we continue to give thanks for all of those people who donate and volunteer for this vital service. With every blessing from all of us here at the Methodist Church to each and every one of you. God bless. Rosemary Krull Toddlers A big “thank you” to the teddies for last month’s article. It was good to hear from them. When the teddies were out on their daily exercise, they found some beautiful shiny conkers although they said they were not as big as usual and they wondered if you managed to find any. They also told me how much they enjoy hearing the children going along to school in the mornings and hope that all the new pupils are happy and settled. They hear a bird, called the robin, singing each day but miss the tweets in the sky from the swallows and house martins who have now flown away, on a very long journey, to spend Winter in a country called Africa, which will be much warmer for them. All the toys miss being played with but continue to look after each other. However, the tea-set is well used every afternoon when they all have a cup of tea. The toys would like to say “Happy Birthday” to Arianna who will be four years old on 8th October and to Conrad who will be two years old on 18th October - they hope that both Arianna and Conrad have a lovely time. Sadly, we still cannot restart Toddlers due to the current guidelines but look forward to the day when we can all be together again. May you, your families and friends keep well and safe. Jane
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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News from the Parish Council Virtual Meetings in September Decisions Made by the Parish Council Planning Matters 07/20/00012: Erection of an Agricultural Barn and demolition of an existing building at Peatlands 12, Brent Street, Brent Knoll, TA9 4DU Response: No Observations. Unanimous 07/20/00013: T1 Crown Raise 2m from the ground , prune minimally away from road and electricity pole to stable growth points at 162, Brent Street, Brent Knoll, Somerset, TA9 4BE Response: The Parish Council support the proposal on the grounds of good arboreal practice at the correct time of the year. Unanimous 07/20/00014: Change of Use of land to equestrian and the erection of a stable block at Nyumba Urefu, Wick Lane, Brent Knoll, TA9 4BU Response: Support for this application on the grounds of appropriate use of the available land for Horses. Unanimous 07/20/00015: Change of use and conversion of two traditional agricultural buildings to private dwellings with garden curtilage, parking and garaging, demolition of other buildings, alterations to access and formation of new access at Somerset Farm, Harp Road, Brent Knoll, TA9 4HQ Response: This application is supported by the Parish Council on the grounds of providing a further home on a good sized plot and it will enhance the nature of the buildings and there are no access issues associated with this proposal, it is also to be used for residential family use. Unanimous 07/20/00016: Sycamore (T11) & (T12) – Reduce Lateral Branches encroaching the property by 1.5 at the Willows, Brent Knoll, TA9 4EJ Response: Supported by the Parish Council on the grounds of good arboreal practice being undertaken at the most appropriate time of the year. Unanimous 11/20/00072: Erection of Storage Container and formation of hard Standing at Land to the west of Brent Knoll Animal Centre (Revised Scheme). This is a Burnham application with Brent Knoll as a consultee. Response: No Observations to this proposal. Unanimous 07/20/00017: Variation of Condition 15 of the planning permission 07/18/00021 (Erection of 1,2,3 and 4 bedroom dwellings with associated Parking) to Install a footbridge on to highways land at land to the South East of 2, Brent Street, Brent Knoll, TA9 4DU Response: Support for this variation on the grounds of furthering the completion of this development. Unanimous. Ongoing issues Dog Bin additional unit agreed and considering the costs October. Speed Indicator Device Ongoing, being returned to manufacturer as non-operational Web Site re vamping and compliance issues to be completed this week. Continuing improvements to play equipment (quotes agreed). Fencing on the rhyne side of the village green (to be commenced w/c 7th Sept. Various footpath maintenance issues to be completed. Painting of front fence to green and benches quote agreed. On-going progress at Baker’s Field and updates from developer. Meeting Times The Parish Council next Virtual meeting on October 7th, 7pm. If anyone wishes to join the meeting, can they please contact the clerk in advance. A full set of minutes available on the website or by email request to the clerk. Contact the Clerk for any Council matters Owen J Cullwick, el o cler rent noll c co
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Bishop’s letter - A time to listen I was expecting to be on sabbatical as I write this but of course you will all now be aware that Bishop Peter is receiving treatment for leukaemia and thus I am back in the diocese. He is as cheerful as ever and very much values your care, thoughts, prayers, cards, flowers and so many warm messages. Thank you! Please keep praying for him, Jane and the family. Coping with the ‘unexpected’, whether it is news about health, the pandemic or a personal diagnosis like +Peter’s; or a change of plan such as my sabbatical, can set us in a spin. We don’t always know how to respond. It requires us to adapt, to change, to rethink how we will live. I’m reminded of the story of Elijah who felt overwhelmed by the circumstances around him. A national drought both from rain and faith left him feeling vulnerable and alone. And although God made Himself very evident in the events of Mount Carmel, Elijah still felt under siege and fearful, wanting to die rather than face the wrath of Jezebel. And so he ran! And in the book of Kings, we find God meets with him. First of all bringing him refreshment of body and mind through sleep and food. And then, when his well-being is restored, he discovers the voice of God, not in the strength of storm or wind but in a ‘still small voice’. I wonder where and how you might hear the voice of God? Across the diocese we are entering into a listening project to hear what God might be saying to us, in and through the strange times in which we now live. We welcome your thoughts so please do share them with us. Praying God’s blessing on us all Bishop Ruth Ecumenical Worship at Brent Knoll Methodist Church No meetings until further notice due to Coronavirus. Margaret Trapp Parish Hall and Covid-19 At our recent monthly meeting, a lengthy discussion took place to decide whether to re-open the Parish Hall. The Committee understand that some organisations would like to hire the Hall, but it was felt that, at the present time, with the increased incidences of Covid-19, it would not be prudent to allow the Hall to be used. The Committee understand that some users are dependent on life getting back to normal, and the Committee is sorry that at this moment they are unable to say yes to a limited use of the Hall, as it is felt it would be too much of a risk to users. However, the reopening of the Hall will be on the Agenda in October, and the Committee will discuss the matter again. Please be reassured that this decision was not taken lightly. If you have views about the decision made by the Committee, please email Sandra Few on [email protected]. Sandra Few Please Support our Local Businesses Thanks to our advertisers, we are able to produce the Brent Knoll News delivered free to your home. Many of our advertisers have had a tough time this year because of Covid-19. Please support our local businesses as they do so much to support us. If you know any businesses that would like to advertise in the BKN, please ask them to email me at [email protected]. Bob Filmer
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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Welcome back to Somerset Libraries! The Mobile Library vehicle is once again making regular stops, including various visits in the Brent Division on Fridays. The Somerset Libraries website details the actual stops and times for different locations (see Route H), just type ‘Somerset mobile library stops’ into your web search engine for more information. In recent months, we have increased our online offer and developed the Order-and- Collect’ service. This is a great way to try out a selection of books, as staff can hand-pick up to ten books for you to explore, based on the sorts of things you tell us you like to read. We want to ensure that staff and customers are kept as safe as possible, which means things will look and feel a little different in our libraries – but we are delighted to be able to welcome everyone back. Members of Somerset Libraries can also download free audiobooks, magazines, newspapers, books, and access other online services such as Ancestry UK – visit www.somersetreads.co.uk for more information and helpful ‘How To’ guides. Staff have been busy creating new videos each week to suit all ages and interests. Enjoy the regular story-times and rhyme-times on Facebook or get some inspirational gardening, cookery and other activity ideas, posted each week on Facebook and Twitter. Many of our videos can also be found via the Glass Box website: www.glassboxtaunton.co.uk/videos. The Home Library Service is also up-and-running again, so if you need to stay at home and would like to receive a visit from one of the Royal Voluntary Service volunteers, please email Kirsty Jenssen: [email protected] It’s a good idea to check our website and social media pages for regular updates on the services we can offer: visit www.somersetlibraries.co.uk or find Somerset Libraries UK on Facebook and on Twitter (search for @SomersetLib John Carter, Somerset Libraries Sedgemoor District Council’s loan scheme Sedgemoor’s loan scheme continues to improve homes across the district. Despite all the challenges that lockdown brought, Sedgemoor District Council has continued to work alongside Lendology CIC (formerly known as Wessex Resolutions) to provide low interest loans to assist homeowners to undertake essential repairs to their home. Keeping homes safe, warm and ready for Winter is key to good health across Sedgemoor. A loan from Lendology can ensure homes are fully prepared for Winter – be it repairing a leaky roof, funding an efficient heating system, fitting good insulation to keep bills down, or ensuring electrics are safe and up-to-date. There are a variety of home repairs and improvements covered under the scheme. A recent Sedgemoor homeowner who received a loan funded by Sedgemoor District Council and delivered by Lendology CIC said: “Everything from the initial survey to the communication and help we have received has been excellent”. With the Government announcement of the Green Homes Grant Scheme to be launched in Autumn 2020, a loan from Lendology CIC could be used to top-up a grant where there is a shortfall in the cost, or for those homeowners who are not eligible for the Green Home Grant. If you need to repair your home, it couldn’t be simpler to apply for a home improvement loan. Just contact the team at Lendology direct on 01823 461099 or visit their website www.lendology.org.uk. Claire Faun
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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Autumn has arrived! October brings those lovely Autumn days when the sunlight shines through the leaves as they turn from green to orange and red. I must be lazy as the best part for me is that when I tidy the garden in the Autumn, it will stay like it for a few months and watering is no longer a concern. Of course, we don’t want you to tidy your gardens too much as it is the time that hedgehogs are looking for suitable places for hibernation. We start to see small hedgehogs coming in during this month, as if the mother thinks she doesn’t have time to get her babies up to the weight that they need to be to survive the Winter. She will desert them to ensure that she gets up to about 600gms herself and will see another year. Hedgehogs only hibernate because their food disappears, so if you feed them in your garden, you may well see them still visiting late into the year because the food supply is still there. We have baby hedgehogs coming in already! With all our fundraising events cancelled, it has been a difficult year and our porta-cabins that we work in, need to be gone in a few months. We have therefore, decided to go ahead with the build of our new Treatment Centre. We have started an appeal and if anyone would like to donate, please visit www.secretworld.org. We can also send you a brochure if you ring 01278 783250 or you can get one from reception at Secret World. We have helped to care for over 100,000 wildlife casualties since we started, and we want to be here for future years as well. We are always very grateful for the donations that people bring in to us of kitten or cat food, dog or puppy food, non-bio washing powder in the Winter as there are plenty of mouths to feed and washing to do! Look out for our new pop up shop in the High Street in Burnham on Sea with lots of bric-a-brac and clothes but also new items that make fabulous presents. Every penny always goes towards the care of our animals. Stay safe and take care, Pauline Kidner, Founder of Secret World Wildlife Rescue. Poppy Appeal – Update It’s only about a month until the annual Poppy appeal starts. Sadly this year, it will be very reduced due to Covid-19. This year we shall not be able to collect from Sanders. We can take some collecting boxes to static positions, with permission from managers, etc. More information next month on how you can donate if you wish. Sally Wingate, Poppy Organiser Phone Box Last year, the phone box outside the village shop was painted and refurbished and was being used for notices and information. This is now going to be updated regularly with local information including things like road closure notices, crime notices etc. If you would like to display anything, then please could you contact either myself or Owen Cullwick by email or telephone as detailed below. Kim Wilcox, Village Agent [email protected] 07943 555 519 Owen Cullwick, Parish Clerk [email protected] 07917 445 215 Kim Wilcox Front Cover Photos - Thanks to Tony Gilbert for the pictures of the Church Bells. Some restoration work is being done in the Bell Tower by a volunteer from the village. Pictures show Bells and their large size. Also the Bell that rings every ½ hour and on the hour for the clock controlled by the GPS unit. Bob
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WI Craft Group Although we are unable to meet, our members and others continue to knit hats and scarves for Seafarers as well as blankets for both premature babies and adults with dementia. We hope it won’t be too long until we can meet again and not only show or explain what crafting we’ve done, but also explain how it’s helped us to keep busy during this strange time If anyone is having itchy fingers and would like to knit for a worthwhile cause, please contact me and I should be able to help with patterns, wool etc. Margaret Smith 01278 760691 Women’s Society So very sorry no news this month. Have no idea when we will be able to meet up again but do hope it will not be too long before we can...... We know that some members have not been well and do hope that they are improving, we send you our love and please let us know if there is anything that we can do to help. Regards to you all. Ann and Julie Pastoral Care Groups Although the groups can’t meet physically, we’ve been keeping an eye on our members through phone calls, emails etc. The Alzheimer and Dementia Carer group has been meeting fortnightly on a Monday afternoon through Zoom. If anyone is interested in joining them, please phone Carla Searle on 01278 760041 or email [email protected]. Mrs Kim Wilcox the village agent, also attends the meetings. The Parish of Three Saints Pastoral Care team have also been busy keeping an eye on people in the community, phoning, getting shopping, dog walking, prayer requests and volunteering to deliver newspapers etc. Parents of those recently baptised in our parish have also been emailed to say that we are thinking of them and given links to online services, contact details etc. If there is anyone who would value a chat, please contact Anthony on 07701 081077 or email [email protected]. Margaret Smith, 01278 760691 Local Crime Report September Report for Sedgemoor North West Area which includes: Lympsham, Eastertown, East Brent, Brent Knoll, Rooksbridge, Watchfield, East Huntspill, West Huntspill, Stretcholt, Pawlett, Berrow and Brean. Crime Type Recorded: Recorded: Trend Details July 20 Aug 20 Burglary - Residential 3 5 +2 Burglary – Business - - - Drug Offences 1 1 - Criminal Damage 3 8 +5 Theft’s 6 5 -1 Public Order 9 10 +1 Violence Against Person 13 30 +17 Recorded: Recorded: ASB (Anti-Social Behaviour) Trend Details July 20 Aug 20 Calls to either 101 or 999 categorised as some form of (ASB) 5 9 +4 PCSO 7675 Sam Piers
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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Brent Knoll House Histories European Heritage Year 1975 W. I. Book – 46 ast mo th s este that o oo at the omme t i the oo that ar arm is part i a etha a i ot ee i si e the ho se am re ia t o e terior ie s a tho h as it is o the mar et rre t there are some estate a e t pi t res a ai a e o i e hi h a e he p Be ore is ss spe i i eat res o ar arm ho e er there are some e era ise omme ts a o t the ho e o Bre t o hi h are perti e t here are o a er e properties i Bre t o hi h a tr e sai to e e amp es o er a ar ar hite t re hi h mea se e tee th e t r or e ore er a ar i this ase re ers to metho s o i i hi h ere spe i i to a o a ise re io a area rom the ei htee th e t r o ar s most ho ses te e to e i t i a sta ar atio a st e tho h some o the ess e pe si e ho ses i retai a er a ar st e thro h i to the i etee th e t r he o est ho ses ha e see i Bre t o a e ate a o as ar as the se e tee th e t r et ri e a Che ar o ha e ma i tee th e t r i i s p s o e or t o o rtee th e t r properties So h the i ere e i e that Bre t o has a histor hi h is st as a ie t as either o the others a as o io s a re ati e prospero s i a e rom e e ore the o rtee th e t r a t it is ot st Bre t o hi h has e ear ho ses Nota the atershe i o i e se the se o that term ame i the se e tee th e t r t as i that a ma or isaster hit Bre t o a m h o the s rro i o tr si e t as reporte that “Great and mighty hills of water” advanced, at speeds “faster than a greyhound can run,” up the Bristo Cha e a i a as ar as asto r hi h is o rtee mi es m i a t a so impa te a other areas a a e t to the Bristo Cha e a es as se ere impa te as e a i ot re e e ti te a s ater t has ee estimate that the s r e ra at p to thirt mi es a ho r a as p to t e t i e eet hi h A contemporary report stated, “Many men that were rich in the morning when they rose out of their beds, were made poore before noone the same day” and a popular pamphlet noted that it was “Gods warning to his people of England.” Continued on page 20
SEPTEMBER BRENT KNOLL NEWS
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Brent Knoll House Histories – Continued t is still ein ar ued amon st academics as to whether it was a storm sur e or a tsunami which caused the devastation, ut, either way, it had a ma or impact on local uildin s A rid e and heddar were not in the path o the sur e and, thou h they may have had some loodin , its impact there would have een ar less severe, which saved their properties n some areas o the country the seventeenth century saw a reat re uildin due to the ivil ar hat had ar less impact in this area, ut the lood did re uire considera le re uildin owever, that was not Estimated extent of 1607 flood in Somerset all n there was a wee lon hurricane which hit the southern parts o n land and is considered to e one o the worst storms that has ever hit this country he ishop o ath and ells and his wi e were illed in their eds when the chimney o their palace collapsed, the ddystone i hthouse was demolished and , trees collapsed in the ew orest n ast rent, ohn elwood, A ot o laston ury rom to , uilt himsel a su stantial country dwellin n ortunately, that property no lon er e ists as it was demolished in t has always een a it o a mystery why that happened, until someone in ast rent recently realised that it almost certainly su ered considera le dama e rom the storm and was, there ore, no lon er ha ita le hose two ma or calamities meant that ew, i any, uildin s prior to the event remained and, o those which were re uilt in the seventeenth century, many su ered severe dama e in onse uently, the houses in villa es which were a ected y these events have little or no early uildin s other than the churches, which were o ten on elevated round and were y ar the most su stantial uildin s in their respective villa es As stated a ove, there are estate a ent pictures online, which includes one valua le e tra, which is a plan o the accommodation his does lead to some interestin hypotheses a out the ori ins o ar arm, thou h a closer inspection o such thin s as the thic ness o the walls would ma e a considera le di erence to nowled e re ardin its a e will discuss the plans in more detail ne t month, ut to inish this month would su est that the normal thou h not invaria le rule is that stone walls c oot inches thic are rom the th century and e ore, whilst th century uildin s tend to have walls oot thic and th century properties o down to around inches thic John Page myrtle mail com
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
BKN.Innards.indd 20 22/09/2020 14:45 PAUL DIXON Carpenter & Joiner Builder Extensions Loft Conversions Conservatories Porches Timber/uPVC Windows/Doors Staircase Fitted Furniture Free Advice and Estimates Tel: 01278 760521 ‘Apple Down’, 76 Brent Street, Brent Knoll, Highbridge, Somerset TA9 4EQ
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Brent Knoll Community Shop The advent of October marks six months since the shop re-opened as a ‘community, emergency’ venture. All of our volunteers at Brent Knoll Community Shop continue to thank our customers for supporting us during that time and are full of excitement for the future. We can now confirm that the shop will remain open until at least the end of the year. This has been possible due to the continued dedication from the people who give their time and skills to keep a shop in our village and the customers of Brent Knoll who have supported our shop and Summer ‘coffee stop’. The shop has received recognition as an acclaimed model of a community enterprise, securing the support of the Plunkett Foundation, which has helped more than 300 rural community shops around the country. We even received a visit from BBC Radio 4’s ‘The World Tonight’, which used us as a case study for a feature on rural community shops. We have been very busy trying to serve the needs of our local community. Although we realise that we will not be able to compete with supermarkets on prices and hours, our stock is continuing to grow and we supply a mixture of fresh, local produce as well as some of the essential daily items we all need and our prices are very reasonable, especially as we aim to operate on a ‘not-for-profit’ basis. While we will remain in our current location for the foreseeable future, plans are afoot for the next phase and, in the coming weeks and months, we will be consulting residents on our proposals. Thank you to all those who entered our ‘design-a-logo’ competition and to those who voted. Keep an eye out for our announcements and our forthcoming bags. It is a great pleasure for us to serve our local community and we are very excited about the future. We are now open every day 9-12. We take orders for newspapers, bread and Havercrofts meat and can usually get hold of most things if you have a specific request. We would also like to thank everyone who has donated your apples, courgettes, tomatoes etc… for us to sell. These community links have been a great success and we have also now passed 500 followers on our Facebook page. Brent Knoll Community Shop exists because of our team of volunteers. We are looking to broaden our volunteer base which could give us the potential to offer more services. Do you want to join our team? Do you have time or a skill to contribute? We would love to hear from you. Contact us [email protected] or via our Facebook or Nextdoor pages. Jim Gillard
Brent Knoll Classical Music Circle You will not be surprised to hear that we have had to postpone our session this term. Given the current situation and the vulnerable nature of many of our members, your welfare is of paramount importance and so the decision was really inevitable. I am sure you will understand. I know this will be a great disappointment to you, no more so than myself as we had a really super programme planned based on your own choices and favourites. The current plan is to roll this over to January, but of course it will be very much subject to what happens between now and then. We shall keep the situation closely monitored. Let’s hope and pray we can all get together again in the New Year. In the meantime, please keep safe and keep well – and have good Christmas! David Allen
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It’s Back!! Yes, the Mobile Library Bus is back. Visiting us once a month opposite the Village Shop on Friday mornings. Dates and Times are on the Parish Council Notice Boards and in the Brent Knoll News. As usual the message is:-‘Use It or Lose It!!’ Viv Hares “200+ Club” August and September Draws The August and September draws were made by Bob Filmer, witnessed by Parish Hall Committee members on Zoom following the Parish Hall Meeting. The winning numbers were:-
August No. Prize Name First Prize 122 £ 20 Ms L. Browne Brent Street Brent Knoll Second Prize 292 £ 20 Mrs R. Keele The Willows Brent Knoll Third Prize 347 £ 16 Mr & Mrs S. Russell Brent Street Brent Knoll Fourth Prize 98 £ 12 Mr B. Crowe Hillside Puriton Fifth Prize 239 £ 12 Mrs M.A. Bryant Station Road Brent Knoll Sixth Prize 56 £ 10 Miss M. Rhys Brent Street Brent Knoll Seventh Prize 60 £ 8 Mr R. Fairchild Brent Street Brent Knoll Eighth Prize 309 £ 6 Mr & Mrs N. Field Church Lane Brent Knoll September No. Prize Name First Prize 324 £ 20 Mr & Mrs A.D. Dando Brent Street Brent Knoll Second Prize 327 £ 20 Mrs M.G. Trapp Coombe Side Brent Knoll Third Prize 129 £ 16 Mr D.R. Wootton Harp Road Brent Knoll Fourth Prize 334 £ 12 Mrs R. Morgan Burton Row Brent Knoll Fifth Prize 348 £ 12 Mr & Mrs S. Russell Brent Street Brent Knoll Sixth Prize 349 £ 10 Mr G. Atkinson Brent Street East Brent Seventh Prize 255 £ 8 Mrs J. Milton Brent Corner Brent Knoll Eighth Prize 210 £ 6 Mr & Mrs H.C.A. Gilpin Burton Row Brent Knoll Thank you to everyone who has supported the Parish Hall by joining the 200+ Club. This will help make sure that our Parish Hall continues to meet the needs of our local community and remains at it’s heart. Bob Filmer, “200+ Club” Co-ordinator Budget Consultation 2020/2021 Sedgemoor District Council wants you to have your say on how the Council should spend your Council Tax. The Council continues to work within a very tight budget, which will mean the Council will have to make choices between reducing services to stay within the funding available, or find ways of raising extra funds. Sedgemoor District Council is currently undertaking Budget Consultation and this will finish on 28th October. This year the survey is only available online. The survey can be found on the front page of our website www.sedgemoor.gov.uk or by clicking https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/BudgetConsultation20/ Reminders will go out on Facebook and twitter each week until the Consultation ends. If you are a Facebook or twitter user, please could you also advertise the survey? There is a £100 prize draw for people that leave contact details (although unfortunately employees\councillors and their families are not eligible). Claire Faun
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
BKN.Innards.indd 24 22/09/2020 14:45 To us the law is personal. Personal to you, our client. Understanding your needs Working to your individual requirements is the difference between getting the job done and getting the result you want. YOU Client This commitment to quality service is why we are one service of the leading firms in Weston and attract work from Legal local and national clients. expertise Please speak with your local contact Tim Hannah.
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Dear Friends, As I am writing this in mid-September, restrictions have been tightened again after an increase in Covid-19 infections. Even as things were, I had been hoping to start firming up plans for a Harvest Celebration, Remembrance Sunday and Christmas, but now that is all on hold again. What is absolutely clear is that our practices and events this year will have to be revised. Some familiar events will not happen at all. Maybe never can they be the same as they were. History has been written and rewritten in 2020. This is not a cause for distress. We should, although it may be hard, grasp the opportunity to reflect on this in a creative way. Jesus caused much anxiety in his attitude towards existing religious practices, many of which had become routine and even hollow. He reassured people by saying, ““Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.” (Matthew 5:17). Jesus showed there was a better way. Sometimes what we do and the way we do things has become a tradition received from previous generations, but all traditions started sometime. There may be occasions when the reason for a certain ritual has been lost in the mist of time. We do what is familiar, comfortable and easy to organise or because we are afraid of change or of upsetting people, but it may not be the best. The Parish of Three Saints Harvest Celebration (10am, 18th October – St Christopher’s, Lympsham), Remembrance Sunday and Christmas will have to be marked by the church in a different way this year, as everyone’s safety is paramount. Details will be published only when we can be sure what is safe, practical, and achievable with the resources and personnel we have. Please regard this positively as a chance to pause and reflect on what we can do to mark these times in appropriate ways in the future. There is nothing to be gained by trying to regain something that may have had its season (remember the famous passage from Ecclesiastes 3, “To everything there is a season...”). The PCC have adopted a prayer, part of which reads, “Help us to forsake the familiar, in our quest for the best, making our life with each other and you an adventure of discovery”. There may indeed be something better we could do in the future to worship and serve God. Pray that this may be the chance to discover it. With my very best regards, in Christ.
Revd Kevin Wright, Rector, The Parish of Three Saints Sedgemoor North West Beat Team
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Veni, Vidi, Vici. During the Lockdown many of us have had the time and luxury to stand and stare. Occasionally I look out of our front window through a framework of trees up to the Knoll. Often I envisage the people who, through the centuries, have lived there. The ones who come to mind most often are the Romans who named the Knoll, ‘Mons Ranarum’ ‘The Mount of Frogs’. I can easily picture a soldier on guard duty, or a group of them taking in the wonderful vista of the Levels, the Mendip Hills, the Quantocks, the Estuary and the distant Welsh Hills. I am sure they would have appreciated it as much as we do. Rudyard Kipling wrote a poem about a Roman Centurion who was deeply regretting being called back to Rome having lived in Britain for forty years. He had fallen in love with the country and had no desire to leave. With a little imagination I can see this particular Centurion standing on this very Knoll surveying the area, very upset about having to pack up his gear and journey to the coast to pick up a passage across the Channel and wonder, with great trepidation, what would be awaiting him. The poem is about settling down in another country and finding that it has come to mean more to you than your homeland. Kipling describes the Centurion’s feelings brilliantly. I quote the first and last verses of eight. The poem is called, ‘The Roman Centurion’s Song’ (Roman occupation of Britain AD 300) and I commend it to you. Like everything else in this life, it can be found on Google. BDF
Legate, I had the news last night- my cohort ordered home By ship to Portus Itius and thence by road to Rome. I’ve marched the companies aboard, the arms are stowed below: Now let another take my sword. Command me not to go!
Legate, I come to you in tears- my cohort ordered home! I’ve served in Britain forty years. What should I do in Rome? Here is my heart, my soul, my mind- the only life I know I cannot leave it all behind. Command me not to go!
Oak Trees – by the Reverend Frances Kilvert 1876 I fear those grey old men of Moccas, those grey, gnarled, low-browed, knock-kneed, bowed, bent huge, strange, long-armed, deformed, hunch-backed misshapen oak men that stand waiting and watching century after century, biding God’s time with both feet in the grave and yet tiring down and seeing out generation after generation, with such tales to tell, as when they whisper them to each other in the midsummer nights, make the silver birches weep and the poplars and aspens shiver and the long ears of the hares and rabbits stand on end. No human hand set those oaks. They are ‘the trees which the Lord hath planted’. They look as if they had been at the beginning and making of the world, and they will probably see its end. Sally Wingate
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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PARISH HALL COMMITTEE FORTHCOMING EVENTS for your DIARY 2nd Saturday Bazaar, Farmers’ Market and Parish Café Postponed until further notice Next meeting – Monday, 12th October at 8pm online via Zoom! S Few Nature diary for October For regular readers – the teasel that featured in last month’s BKN finally met its match when Rosemary decided it was “over the top” – all good things must come to an end. This month’s contribution is slightly longer than usual because I have been asked to write a contribution to an upgrade of the BK Village website on the subject of Nature around Brent Knoll. So read on… The Knoll consists of Jurassic limestone. At 150 million years old it is much younger than the 350 million years old Carboniferous limestone of the Mendip Hills that can be seen from the top of the Knoll. The flowers of Jurassic limestone are not as varied as those on Carboniferous limestone. Nevertheless there is still enough variety to produce a colourful scene as one walks around the top of the Knoll, or along some of the footpaths that skirt the Knoll. The slopes of the Knoll are wooded and the byways are lined by hedgerows that support most of the common bird species. In places, there are areas of wetland and streams run off the Knoll draining into the surrounding Levels. As with most areas of our countryside, gardens make up an important wildlife habitat, and act as a refuge for wildlife in an increasingly impoverished farmed landscape. The most easily seen local birds are from the crow family. Ravens were dying out in Somerset in the 1970s but are now common locally. In the Spring, they can be seen over the Knoll often mobbing one of the local buzzards which rise up on the thermal currents. At that season, you may be lucky enough to spot the smaller sparrowhawk as it soars above its territory. Kestrels may also be seen hovering over the upper slopes of the Knoll. Watching smaller birds is best done in the Winter when there are no leaves on the trees. St Michael’s churchyard is a good place to visit because all the common tits and finches frequent the area. You may disturb a green woodpecker feeding in front of the church or catch a glimpse of a greater spotted woodpecker in the trees. This is also a good place to see redwings and fieldfares that visit us in the Winter. Ponds local will be visited regularly by grey herons. From early March, Spring flowers are in evidence. Celandines and primroses put on a spectacular display in the churchyard and cowslips are common in fields on the slopes of the Knoll. Damper grassland supports the cuckoo flower and the hedge banks are covered with cow parsley and hedge garlic. In the late Spring and Summer months, a visit to the top of the Knoll is rewarding. In May, the ground is covered with bulbous buttercups and close inspection of the slopes will reveal hairy violets. In June, the yellow flowers of bird’s foot trefoil (eggs and bacon) appear and pyramidal orchids may be seen on the north side of the old Iron Age fortifications. July and August is the month to see the purple flowers of black knapweed, the blue common scabious and the dwarf thistle. Smaller plants of note are eyebright, purging flax (a medieval laxative) and the uncommon knotted bur parsley. Continued on Page 32
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Nature diary for October - Continued Butterflies are plentiful around the Knoll and in gardens. One of the national Butterfly Conservation transect walks starts in the churchyard covering the top of the Knoll and returning to the churchyard via Hill Lane. These transect walks have revealed how once common butterflies such as the small tortoiseshell has declined in numbers. One declining species, the wall brown has a colony on the top of the Knoll. So climbing the Knoll to look for butterflies is well worthwhile. In season, you will see common blues, speckled woods, gatekeepers, small heath and the very common meadow brown. It is also a good spot to see the larger migrants such as painted lady and red admiral. At a lower level, orange tips and holly blues are common in the Spring. The mammals of Brent Knoll are very often not seen because they are nocturnal. Badgers are common and their presence is revealed by their tracks. Occasionally you will see them running at full pelt away from the headlights of your car. Foxes are mainly nocturnal but some bold individuals are seen in daylight. Roe deer are more reticent and you have to be up early to catch them. Small mammals, such as field mice, bank voles and stoats are common but you have to be lucky to see them. St Michael’s Churchyard has already been mentioned as a site for a Winter bird watch. In the Summer it hosts bats. Lesser horseshoe bats roost in the church porch and pipistrelles fly around the yard. Just below the church, there is a nursery of serotins that regularly roosts in the wall cavities of houses. A more sedentary set of residents can be found on the church itself and the gravestones in the shape of lichens. These are fascinating long lived organisms that grow on stone and the branches of trees. There are a large number of different varieties on the church and gravestones. One particularly rare species grows on the north side of the church. The species mentioned in this article are only a fraction of the interesting wildlife that can be seen by the observant person around Brent Knoll. If you want to know more about local wildlife, or to report sightings that are of interest, please contact the local Somerset Wildlife Trust representative Ged Keele by email at [email protected]. Ged ra er oh hear my heart as we share my praise precious moments open my mind to ether to our wonders and mysteries and our words reach out as i sin to my heart o my love and our spirit reveals let my words truth reach ou to mine Corin
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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Your October Sudokus Atomic Mushroom Cloud (KB) Space settlements (DF)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
A 5 8 A
B 8 9 2 1 B 2 7 4 3 6
C 7 2 C 6 2
D 2 8 9 D 4 8
E 7 4 8 E 3 7 5 9
F 3 9 6 F 9 1 2 7
G 6 1 G 7 1
H 6 7 5 4 H 8 1 5 6 4
I 8 9 I
Continuing the space theme, the first Sudoku shows the planet Saturn with its rings and 2 of its smallest moons Aegaeon and Anthe, only 0.21 and 0.31 miles across. With very low gravity, one could be a good staging post if we wanted to visit Saturn. It’s my easy Sudoku, if you want a tough one, delete 9 from cell D8. If you want a diabolical Sudoku, delete just 1 from cell B6! The next, by Klaus, is the planet Jupiter with its large red spot. Its 4 largest moons are Io, Europa, Ganemede and Callisto, first seen by Galileo in 1610. Last Sudoku comments were:-“We both really enjoyed these”, - “Thank you David, great fun.” – “Quite easy, nice” – “Thank you - a welcome interlude” – “Thanks again, both were innovative and interesting.” Solutions came from: Klaus Brenner, Jenny Butters, Pauline Chadwick, Peter Filmer, Christine Hall, Mac Hares, Liz Ibrahim, Chris Marsh, Frankie and Geoff New, John Spiers, Ted Toon, Jo Wright and Louise Wright. Please send entries in to [email protected] or to 48 Brent Street. David Filmer The solutions to last month’s Sudokus are below:- Atomic Mushroom Cloud (KB) Space settlements (DF) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
A 5 7 4 8 2 1 3 6 9 A 6 7 2 1 4 5 3 9 8
B 1 9 7 6 3 5 4 B 1 5 9 3 6 7 2 8 4 8 2
C 8 3 5 9 4 1 2 C 7 2 4 5 6 7 3 8 9 6 1
D 4 9 6 3 1 8 2 7 5 D 2 6 3 5 7 4 8 1 9
E 8 5 1 4 7 2 9 3 6 E 9 5 8 6 2 1 7 4 3
F 2 3 7 5 8 4 1 F 7 1 4 9 8 5 2 6 9 6 3
G 9 1 8 2 4 7 6 5 3 G 5 9 7 2 3 6 1 8 4
H 7 6 2 1 3 5 4 9 8 H 4 2 6 8 1 7 9 3 5
J 3 4 5 6 8 9 7 1 2 J 8 3 1 4 5 9 2 6 7
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Lympsham Gardening Club As the conditions in the country are still somewhat uncertain due to Covid-19, the Garden Club has regretfully decided to cancel all meetings for the rest of this year. Mariette Denison The Eye to “I” The Ploughman homeward wending his way The Tiger burning bright in the night The Daffodils which the wind makes sway All put into verse for our delight Or is it only for the Poet’s soul That verses are penned with loving care Matching words to view a selfish goal To signify his existence there When we enjoy the verse of others Is it merely a spectator sport ? Looking at the life of our brothers As voyeurs, guilty, if we are caught The poet seeks a fourth dimension Where his eye can find divinity Within the striving and the tension Of man’s existence. Naturally He needs to spread the word about it To fill us with hope instead of fear Let us see through the eye of a Poet “I” have a reason for being here. JMS 2001 Crossword – Answers to last month’s puzzle Across - 24) Aside Down - 21) Duels 1) Fighting Fit 25) Zippy 2) Irony 26) Insets 8) Soon 29) Sweeps 3) Tartly 27) Fewer 10) Reticent 33) Eros 4) Notion 28) Poncho 11) Next 34) Arc 5) Icebox 30) Wafery 12) Rays 35) Ewes 6) Usurp 31) Eclair 13) Loo 37) Loth 7) Other 32) Using 15) Tone 38) Etcetera 9) Nestle 36) While 18) Toying 39) Sian 14) Oil-Tanker 20) Tried 40) Lorry Driver 17) Glitz Roy Ainsworth 22) Inane 18) Kriss 23) Unapt 19) Snips Moon Photo Thanks to John Page for the lovely photo of the moon on page 37. Bob
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
BKN.Innards.indd 36 22/09/2020 14:45 The Walled Gardens, shop and plant sales are open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm. At present, the tea room serves light bites and drinks to be consumed on our outdoor patio area or taken away to eat. Toilets are open. However, the glasshouse will remain closed until further notice. Health and safety measures are in place. Keep an eye on our website and social media pages for updates and events.
www.canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk 01278 655042
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THE NUTTALL TRUST (Registered Charity No 1085196) The Nuttall Trust is a charity which was set up to provide financial support for local projects, community organisations and individuals within the villages of East Brent, Lympsham, Brent Knoll and Mark. It was made possible by the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. James Nuttall who left part of their estate for that purpose. The Trust has been operating since 2001. During that time, the four trustees (one to represent each of the four villages) have been able to provide varying sums of money to different projects and causes. In making available such sums, the trustees seek to balance the likely benefit of funding to individuals and/or to the community as a whole, the level of local support for any particular project, whether there is evidence as to the need for such funding, the likelihood of the balance being raised from other sources, together with the apparent prospects of the project getting off the ground if funding were to be provided. If funding is provided, it is expected to be used solely for the purpose set out in the application, Over the past, the Trust has provided funds for over two hundred different projects and causes. However, we do not wish to miss other deserving causes and the purpose of this notice is to create greater awareness of the Nuttall Trust within the community of Brent Knoll. If you are interested in applying for a grant or would like further information before deciding whether to apply, please give me a call on 01278 760422 or email [email protected]. There is an application form which I will send you either in paper form or by email to assist you with the application process. All applications are treated in complete confidence and should be submitted by the end of the year for review by the Trustees early in the New Year. If you have applied before, please do not be put off, whether you were successful or not in that earlier application. Martin Wilkins, Trustee, Nuttall Trust A bat in Lockdown Last evening, August 18th at quite a late hour, we were very much engrossed in a television programme, not having nodded off as I have been wont to do at times. The meal and red wine had gone down well and we were at peace with the world. The police had picked the wrong man and the programme showed how upsetting it must have been for him. Fortunately they apprehended the real culprit and it all ended peacefully. About that time I became aware of a large moth flitting around our heads at great speed and it wouldn’t go away. It zoomed around at fantastic speed because, in fact, it wasn’t a moth- it was a bat! We had no idea how it had gained entrance but it had. Bats are very skilful sending out sound waves which bounce back so they can avoid obstacles - And this is done at tremendous speed. The ever faithful Google tells me that there are 18 types of bat in this country, a surprisingly high number, I thought. Unfortunately many of them have declined in number but groups and societies are working hard to restore the numbers. We used to see bats flying to capture insects in our garden quite regularly but sadly, this was the first one I had seen or rather glimpsed, for several years. I have no idea which type of bat had taken up temporary residence in our lounge - it was much too quick. The only thing to do was to close all doors and windows except for the one leading out into the garden from our sun lounge- which I did - and the bat shot straight out, gratefully, I am sure to its normal environment. We were quite relieved on behalf of the bat as we didn’t want it to suffer from Lockdown - And no- contrary to popular belief, I haven’t got “bats in the belfry!” BDF
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ostcar s o Brent Knoll After last month’s BKN was circulated, Charles Usher contacted me to say that he did not believe that the lady in the car was in fact Lady Fox. He was born in this village a couple of years after Lady Fox came to live in the Manor House and remembered her as a small lady who mainly wore black. That does not seem to fit the lady in this picture, although the Model “T” Ford probably was hers. If the man in the car was Lady Fox’s brother, then the lady with him could have been his second wife, Lady Aimee Hobhouse. However, I cannot find a picture of her on the Internet and, although there is one of Sir Charles, this picture is a little too grainy too be certain whether it is him. One thing that does come out of this is that I am always very happy for people to tell me if they believe there are errors in my articles or if they have additional interesting information on the topics discussed. Thank you, Charles.
This month I will leave you with a little puzzle. Where is this well-known property in Brent Knoll? John Page
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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More Rambles from the Rambler Each month I look forward to getting my copy of the BKN so that I know what is going on in the village, not the nudge nudge, wink wink, know what I mean Monty Python kind of news that is best kept behind closed doors. Anyway I am away on a tangent, the point I was going to make was that the ED asks for villagers to write about things that interests them or things they dislike. I believe we should all endeavour to help out with the publication of the village magazine. I know you are all going to say what can I write about; well all you have to do is look at the previous six lines. If you cannot do better than that I will eat my hat! Now comes the tricky part, what do I write about, well there is one thing I have not tried and that is poetry; “There was a young man from Brent Knoll”...... as said earlier that is best kept behind closed doors. How about this, They sailed on the good ship “CRISIS” into the setting Sun Of Captains there were forty nine, and a motley crew of one The captains all did argue but none could agree of what direction they should take across the open sea. Then one spoke up, “Fetch Motley fetch him from below” Tell us Motley which direction should we take, for you are the one to know. That’s easy said Motley, you would know if you were smart, no matter which way you go on a world that’s round you always end up where you start. That's got poetry ticked off the list; I think a book is next maybe a classic I’ve some good titles already. Jayne Hair, David Chipperfield and Whore and Piece are just a few. The Rambler PS. I look forward to reading all those new articles from villagers who want to see the BKN flourish. Now Where Did That Come from? If something or someone saves your bacon, it means it prevents a loss of one sort or another or even saves your life. Pig-related terms have been used as metaphors for people, since as long ago as the 11th century. During the middle ages, pork was one of the few types of meat widely available, affordable and for many, the only meat they had to eat. The aristocracy and rich Normans of the time, look down on the average people, calling the Saxons “hogs “and “swine”, hence country workers etc. were known as “Chaw-bacon”, meaning bacon chewers or carrot crunchers. Regardless of this, farmers and workers guarded their bacon stores most carefully, especially from roaming dogs, wild animals and thieves. A hungry worker would
always be so relieved if someone had saved their bacon. Roger Ward BRENT KNOLL PARISH SURGERY The monthly Parish Surgery will be discontinued until meetings resume, however please do phone or email the clerk if you have any issues that you need to discuss. Owen J Cullwick, [email protected] Mobile Tel 07917 445 215
SEPTEMBER BRENT KNOLL NEWS
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Station Road, Brent Knoll Progress • Current programme shows target completion of the project in Spring 2021, provided there are no significant delays in sourcing materials. • There have been delays on materials for the culvert headwalls but this will not affect piling, which is planned for late September. To date, there have been no problems in sourcing other materials. • A letter has been sent to nearest residents notifying that piling will take place w/c 21st September. • Vibration monitors will be in place throughout piling works. • Water, gas and electric mains have all been installed. Electric supply will continue by generator at the current time, switching across to mains in 6-8 weeks time. • Monthly progress meetings continue to be held virtually and the Parish Council is updated after each meeting. Marketing/Allocations Willow Tree Housing, in partnership with Sedgemoor District Council, is excited to announce the marketing of the Bakers Field properties on Station Road, Brent Knoll. The properties will be marketed at two events at the Willow Tree Housing Partnership Offices, Eastbridge House, Pill Road, Rooksbridge on: Friday 9th October 5pm – 7.30pm; and Saturday 10th October 10am - 2pm Due to COVID-19 requirements, we are operating these events as pre-booked appointments. Please call Daisy or Angela on 01934 750780 to pre-book your place. These events will be attended by representatives from Willow Tree Housing, as well as Westcoast Properties, the Estate Agents appointed to market the homes and will be held wholly in compliance with government guidance in place at the time. Please come along if you are interested in affordable rented, shared ownership or open market homes within the village. The scheme includes the following properties, which are proposed to be available from Spring 2021: Open Market - 2 x 4 bed houses; 2 x 3 bed houses; and 2 x 2 bed houses Shared Ownership - 2 x 2 bed houses (one remaining) Affordable Rent - 1 x 4 bed house; 1 x 3 bed house; 1 x 2 bed house; 2 x 2 bed apartments; and 2 x 1 bed apartments For further details, please call Willow Tree Housing on 01934 750780 or Westcoast Properties on 01278 784884. Further Updates A further update will be provided in next month’s Brent Knoll News. Callum Turner, Willow Tree Housing Partnership
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
BKN.Innards.indd 44 22/09/2020 14:45 PLUMBING BY GEORGE Ltd! 302969 Brent Knoll Small Jobs - dripping taps - leaking toilets, Outside taps, Shower replacements, etc. Gas boiler replacement, radiators & System Upgrades Boiler servicing Tel: 07813 321 197 Company number: 9523398 A company registered in England & Wales
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Brent noll Weather Report – August 2020 As you may have seen in last month’s Brent Knoll News, the weather station is back online (www.knollweather.co.uk) now that we have settled into our new home. I’m typing this a year to the day after we moved; for us, and for the rest of the world, a lot has happened since then. The weather station was finally unpacked and installed in July. The new site is similar to the old one – it is well exposed to the south and west, less good to the north and east because the Knoll is in the way. The anemometer is higher at the new location so wind speeds will not be comparable with those recorded at the old site, but temperature, humidity and rainfall should be similar – if anything the new site should give slightly more accurate readings because there is less concrete. Since August was quite an eventful month weather-wise, this seemed like a good time to re-start the BKN articles. August began with a low pressure system sitting over Iceland. This low had been to the west of Ireland for the last few days of July, and, in combination with a high over Scandinavia, it drew hot and humid air up from the Mediterranean. As the low moved north, a cold front drew in refreshingly cool Atlantic air to get August off to a bright and breezy start. A ridge of high pressure from the Azores on the 3rd brought clear skies and a notably cool night with a minimum of 6.1C early on the 4th. The high pressure soon moved off east, and, with another low to our west, we found ourselves in the same position as at the end of July – a southerly airflow brought warm, humid air and some spectacular thunderstorms on the south coast. This was the start of an increasingly hot spell with daytime temperatures reaching the mid-20s; but to begin with, we were spared the worst of the heat by a sea breeze which popped up around lunchtime each day, while the south-east of the UK sweltered in the low 30s. On the 12th the airflow backed a little to the south-east, blocking our sea breeze so that we too had a sweltering day, with 33.1C recorded just after 4pm. This heat generated thunderstorms in many parts of the country, but although we were treated to views of towering storm clouds in all directions, we had just a late evening shower here. The second half of August saw a return to south-westerlies and cooler, showery weather, but we soon had another little drama in the form of Storm Ellen. This deep low hit Ireland hard on the 20th and brought us a gust of 40kts early on the 21st as the cold front passed – that is an exceptional wind speed for August. Ellen was followed by Francis on the 25th, and although the maximum gust from that storm didn’t quite match Ellen at 39.1kts, the average wind speed was higher and it blew for longer. During the evening, we were treated to the bizarre sight of hundreds of rooks flying sideways as they fought to get back to the rookery above Hill Lane. August wasn’t quite finished with us yet; low pressure over the UK on the 27th and 28th pulled cold polar air across a warm Atlantic and then across the south of England. This unstable and humid air produced a thunderstorm on the 27th and some heavy convective showers; then, as the low moved off east, the polar air came straight down over the UK to make a chilly end to the month. Total rainfall for August was 74.4mm, which is in the normal range, and the average temperature was 17.5C, which is also about what we would expect – the hot spell in the middle of the month was offset by a cool start and finish. Behind those unexceptional figures were some remarkable wind speeds, high temperatures and heavy rainfall, to make it an eventful month. Stephen Baggs; www.knollweather.co.uk
SEPTEMBER BRENT KNOLL NEWS
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Useful Village Contacts: Contact e-mail Telephone St Michael’s Church, Brent Knoll Revd. Kevin Wright [email protected] 760844 Parochial Church Council, Secretary, Carole Carter [email protected] 769082 Church Administrator Carole Carter [email protected] 769082 Church Warden Miss Frances James 760287 Mike Smith 760691 Church Cleaners Weit Harper 760803 Church Flowers Mrs Marion Vining 760612 Poppy Organiser Mrs Sally Wingate 760610 Brass Cleaners Miss Frances James 760287 Methodist Church, Revd. Steve Bennett [email protected] 784808 Janet Southwell 760445 Baptist Church: Burnham, College St. Revd. Steve Ayers 783920 Catholic Church: Burnham & Bridgwater Father Frank Wainwright, 422703 Member of Parliament James Heappey [email protected] 01749 343255 County Councillor Bob Filmer [email protected] 760760 District Councillor Bob Filmer [email protected] 760760 Andrew Gilling [email protected] 01934 750580 Parish Council, Clerk Owen Cullwick [email protected] 07917 445215 Chairman Colin Townsend [email protected] 760226 Planning enquiries Andrea Hurkett [email protected] 760099 Footpath Contact Cynthia Trivett–Bill [email protected] 760198 Parish Hall Booking Secretary Jenny Butters [email protected] 760477 Bazaar Eddie Fuller [email protected] 760308 Chairman Bob Filmer [email protected] 760760 Secretary Sandra Few [email protected] 760451 Doctor Dr S L Aung 760313 NHS Non-Emergency Urgent Medical Helpline 111 Western Power Distribution Power Cut? 105 WRVS Prescription Service 760313 Brent Knoll Primary School Chris Burman [email protected] 760546 Toddlers Group Jane Hannah [email protected] 760629 Brent Knoll Tadpoles Pre-School Cathy Hurley 769126 Village Shop 760225 Village Post Office (Sub-Postmaster) Brent Knoll News, Production Editor Bob Filmer [email protected] 760760 Distribution Elaine & Eddie Fuller [email protected] 760308 Police PCSO 7675 Sam Piers [email protected] 07889 655184 Police Non-Emergency Number 101 Rhyne Problems Lower Axe Draining Board 789906 Village Agent Kim Wilcox [email protected] 07943 555519 National Trust Honorary Ranger Ged Keele 769010 Village Societies: All-Sorts Community Choir Sue Toon [email protected] 760753 Brent Amateur Dramatics (BAD) Sarah Joyce 787493 Conservative Branch Bob Filmer [email protected] 760760 Ecumenical Group Revd. Margaret Trapp 760573 Good Companions Mrs Ann Robson 760981 Guides/Brownies/Rainbows Jane Sinnott [email protected] Royal British Legion Rod Southwell 760445 Short Mat Bowling Club Alan Castle 760424 Table Tennis Club John Mathews 07414 868333 Tennis Club Alison Hillyer 01934 815407 Women’s Institute Janet Southwell 760445 Women’s Society Julie Baker 751229 E&OE
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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Diary for October Page 7th SORT IT+ Recycling & Rubbish Your House Early!! 7th Parish Council – Public Session Online via Zoom 7.00pm 7 Parish Council Meeting Online via Zoom to follow immediately 9th Mobile Library [Friday] Village Shop 9.20-10.20am12,24 12th Green Waste Collection Your House Early!! 12th Parish Hall Committee meeting Online via Zoom 8.00pm 31 14th SORT IT+ Recycling Your House Early!! 15th Deadline for November Brent noll News 12.00 noon 50 18th Harvest Celebration St Christopher’s 10.00am 27 21st SORT IT+ Recycling & Rubbish Your House Early!! 21st Parish Council Provisional Planning meeting Online via Zoom 7.00pm 25th British Summertime Ends - clocks go back 1 hour 26th Green Waste Collection Your House Early!! 28th SORT IT+ Recycling Your House Early!! 28th Sedgemoor District Council Budget consultation ends 24 31st Halloween
Sparrow Hawk Thanks to David Holl for the photo of a Sparrow Hawk that has been attracted to a “bird feeder” in his garden seeking a quick meal to feed its young, on page 51. Bob POSTA Subscription The Brent Knoll News is available by post for those outside the village. All you need to do is to send name and address together with a cheque for 15 (incl. UK postage), to the editor, payable to “Brent noll News” and we’ll do the rest, you could even give it as a present! Why not contribute to OUR illage Maga ine Do you have a pastime or hobby that you think others would find interesting? Then why not share it with the village? We publish most items and others may find your article interesting. Deadline for the November 2020 Issue – All contributions to be received by noon on Thursday 15th October, to:- [email protected] 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 the standpoint of the Brent Knoll News. The Editor reserves the right to edit or amend any contribution. BRENT NO I AGE WEBSITE: www.brentknollvillage.co.uk
BRENT KNOLL NEWS SEPTEMBER
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