AA mag September 2016 - theseavingtons.org3rd Wednesday 10.00am “GET2GETHER” Group in Village Café 2nd Thursday 7.30pm Seavington Gardening Club To keep up to date, check out

September 2016

THE

This issue includes: Somerset County Council Vision and Plan—pp6-8 SPFA Important Open Meeting—pp4-5 Seavington Flower Show Results—pp22-26

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September 2016

1

It was only recently that I used the privilege of writing this column to bemoan the shortage of village activities and paucity of club and organisation activities appearing in our Village Diary. It was therefore a very welcome surprise to visit the Seavington Flower Show last weekend and find a spectacular display with the Millennium Hall thronged to capacity. Our Gardening Club is to be congratulated on both the scope and size, as well as the quality, of the exhibits, which far surpassed those of previous years. Long may it prosper. On page 4 you will find a report on the SPFA AGM and an invitation to join an important open meeting on September 13th. May I propose that we all read the report and participate in the open meeting? Our County Council is getting ambitious and on page 6 you will find a series of proposals which will cost us all money and undoubtedly be administered with the County Council’s traditional flair for bungling and incompetence; do you remember its handling of the broadband project? The County is also disingenuous with its statement regarding the withdrawal of some central government funding whilst not mentioning that, from 2020, local government will retain the entire £26bn business rate revenue. May I suggest that you take the opportunity of giving your views on these proposals both on-line and to our elected representative using the details given in parenthesis at the start of the article? David Froome

T h e S e av i n g t o n s ’ N ew s

DON’T FORGET

The Newspaper Skip! pm Friday 9th September until am Monday 12th September The Latest Copy Date is the 15th September for the next issue Editorial content and diary entries to:

David Froome, Middlefield Barn, Church Lane, Seavington St Mary, Ilminster, TA19 0QP Tel: 01460 249445; e-mail: [email protected]

The Seavingtons’ News

2

All events, unless otherwise shown, are held in the Millennium Hall For bookings call 07905 215993 or [email protected]

5th Sept. Closing date for SPFA Booking Clerk—p11

7th Sept. Supper Club in Village Café -p35

8th Sept. 7.30 pm Garden Club Talk on Agapanthus –p23

12th Sept. Noon Seniors’ Lunch in Village Café -p35

12th Sept. 10.30 am Garden Club visit to Castle Gardens –p23

13th Sept. 7.30 pm SPFA Open Meeting—p4

15th Sept. 7.30 pm RSPB Group Talk: my Antarctica Adventure by Chris Harper—p35

17th Sept. St Michael’s Church Trust Safari Supper - p5

29th Sept. 7.30 pm Shop Association Fashion Show - p12

21st October 7.30 pm Apple Harvest Supper –p36

Regular Activities

2nd Monday noon Pensioners’ Lunches in Village Café

3rd Wednesday 10.00am “GET2GETHER” Group in Village Café

2nd Thursday 7.30pm Seavington Gardening Club

To keep up to date, check out the village web-site which is updated regularly and brings you the latest information on village matters, the programmes of village organisations and much more. Pass the address to your friends and relatives and let them keep in touch as well.

www.theseavingtons.org

V i l l a g e D i a r y — F o r t h c o m i n g E v e n t s

September 2016

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Editorial: David Froome & Maria Potts Advertising: Tony Beresford Production: Brian Edwards & Roger Clampitt Technical & web-site support: Eugene Mulligan Graphics & Visual Support: George Brown

Village web-site:www.theseavingtons.org

Any views expressed in this magazine are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the editorial team. Contributions are welcomed and may be submitted electronically or in manuscript to the editor at the address on page 1. The contents of this village magazine are the copyright © of the Seavingtons' News unless the item concerned carries an alternative copyright assertion. However, all information on village activities and events may be freely reproduced.

Please do not hesitate to telephone David Froome on 01460 249445 if you have any questions.

T h e S e a v i n g t o n s ’ N e w s T e a m

Annual Monthly

Full Page £ 100 £ 12 ½ Page £ 50 £ 6 ¼ Page £ 28 £ 4

Advertising enquiries to: [email protected]

A d v e r t i s i n g R a t e s

4th September 11.30 am Holy Communion (CW)

11th September 8.00 am Holy Communion (BCP)

11th September 11.30 am Café Church in Seavington Café

18th September 11.30 am Holy Communion (BCP)

25th September

Rev Tom Handy telephone: 01460 240377; [email protected]

11.30 am Matins

S t M i c h a e l ’ s C h u r c h , S e a v i n g t o n


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SPFA AGM and Open Meeting 29 July 2016

Chris Gough Chairman (01460 240897)

Following the recent AGM and Open Meeting, I have now been elected to be the Chairman of the SPFA with immediate effect. The Open meeting was an interesting affair with the previous Chairman (Sotiris Yiasoumi) resigning during the meeting with immediate effect and without having advised the Committee in advance. The outgoing Chairman in his address to the meeting, (prior to his departure from the Hall), described the present constitution of the Association in terms that the hall and playing field are run on our behalf by a committee (the SPFA committee) consisting of both “Elected Members” and “Representative Members” who are drawn from various village organisations (currently the Parish Council, St Michael’s Church Trust, Gardening Club, Youth Club and Community Shop). In his presentation he also described a programme of enhancements to the hall and field to be considered in due course. Then, following his sudden resignation and departure, I stepped in to manage the remainder of the meeting and allow questions/comments from the floor. During this part of the meeting our Booking Clerk also spoke at some length and said that he was resigning as well and would leave at the end of September. (Please see the advertisement elsewhere here in the Seavingtons’ News, if you are interested in applying.) The remainder of the formal part of the AGM was concluded with only three “Elected Members” being confirmed for the year 16/17. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for additional committee members to come forward and join us please. I’m delighted to say that several people came forward after the meeting to offer their support. I made the offer that another Open SPFA meeting would be held and this is now arranged for Tuesday 13 September 2016 at 7:30pm in the Millennium Hall. The agenda for this Open Meeting will be:

1 Chairman’s address 2 Response to the Dog Fouling letter in the Seavingtons’ News 3 Progress on the provision of a village defibrillator

September 2016

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St Michael’s Church Trust, Seavington Registered Charity 1068251

Safari Supper Round The Seavingtons

Saturday 17th September 2016

Tickets £15 each—Includes Supper and Raffle Tickets are limited so book early to avoid disappointment!

either ring Annie on 241762 (Answerfone) or use the application form below

Please make cheques payable to: St Michael’s Church Trust and enclose a stamped addressed envelope with a note of any dietary requirements

To: Safari Supper Tickets, Miss Annie Prichard, 2, Winchester Cottages, Seavington St Michael, Somerset, TA19 0QF Please send me …. Tickets for the Safari Supper on 17th Sept 2016

Name ………………………………………. Phone………………….

Address …….………………………………………………………….

………………………………………………………………………….

4 Request for ad hoc volunteers to assist the Committee 5 Open Questions. (If you have a question or topic to raise in

this section, it would be very much appreciated if you could send it in advance to [email protected] so that we have the opportunity to do a little research in advance)

It was suggested that the draft minutes of the 2016 AGM be posted on the village website and made available for all to read. This will be actioned as soon as practicable and hopefully copies will be available at this Open meeting. In taking on the Chairmanship of the SPFA, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all who have offered their support and encouragement. My primary objective in the forthcoming months will be to bring a level of stability and cohesion back to the SPFA after what appears to have been a very turbulent year. I’m very much looking forward to the Open meeting on the 13th September where I’m sure that with everyone’s support and help, we can continue to build and improve our local community and services going forward.


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Somerset County Council’s Vision & Plans Our County Council recently sought the view of our Parish Council on its vision and plans for the future. The Parish Council felt that the issues were important enough to merit a wider distribution and sent the documents on to The Seavingtons’ News. The County Council has staged a limited number of events in the larger conurbations to explain the plans to the wider population but limited or ineffective publicity denied most of us the knowledge of this, so called, consultation. However, there is a short window in which you can make your views known on line by responding to the questionnaire at: www.somerset.gov.uk/listening. This opportunity ends on 30th September. You may also consider lobbying your County Councillor directly—Councillor Christopher Le Hardy, West Grange, Home Farm Lane, Rimpton, BA22 8AS, Telephone 01935 850212, Mobile 07803 894992, e-mail: [email protected] Council Tax This year the County Council’s part of Council Tax bills rose for the first time in six years, but it is still one of the lowest rates in the country. There was a 2% increase ring-fenced for adult social care for the elderly and vulnerable – as encouraged by central government – and 1.99% increase to protect other essential services. A further 1.25% was also added on behalf of the Somerset Rivers Authority to help fund its vital flood protection work. We don’t want to increase Council Tax, but with reductions in core Government funding (£15m this year and about £40m by 2020) and growing demand for services we can’t rule it out. Vision for Somerset This is part of our County Plan which looks ahead to 2020 and our ambition for Somerset. We’re not saying we can deliver it all ourselves or that the projects will all be done by 2020. But we believe they are important to the County’s future and that we can move them forward. University for Somerset To encourage young people to stay and study and attract bright talent from further afield. It would produce graduates skilled for the kind of jobs that Somerset needs, increase employment opportunities and helping businesses to grow. We’re talking with education providers and the Government and there are ways we may be able to move this forward – making land or buildings available, getting the right people and organisations talking, coordinating approaches to Government and putting it on the agenda.

September 2016

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Garden Town There’s a shortage of housing in Somerset. A new Garden Town would provide more homes, and more homes that people can afford. A Garden Town is a town designed from scratch and designed ‘holistically’, with affordable housing, employment, education, transport, open spaces and sustainable communities in mind so it’s easy to live and work in. It is too early to say where a new garden town might be, but we can help by working with district councils and central government, provide assistance with planning, infrastructure and other things that are needed to make a garden town work. Business Parks We want to encourage businesses to set-up, relocate and expand in Somerset, creating jobs, ideally in highly-skilled and well-paid fields, that help the economy grow. It’s too early to say where a new business park or parks might be or the businesses it/they would support. The County Council could, provide land and infrastructure, help with access to funding and assistance with planning, and get the right people and organisations talking. Energy Initiatives We want to put Somerset at the heart of national discussions about energy initiatives, doing what we can to see them taken forward in the county. Solar and tidal initially appear most likely. Council support could be through making land available, helping access funding, get the right people talking, and pushing for a government policy on tidal energy in the Severn Estuary. Devolution Devolution is the transfer of responsibility for some decisions and budgets from central Government to a more local level – so, more decisions about Somerset being taken closer to Somerset. Our Devolution proposal - The Government invited local authorities to put in bids for devolved powers and 23 authorities in Devon and Somerset put proposals together called ‘A Prospectus for Productivity’. You can find the prospectus here www.somersetnewsroom.com/devolution/ The authorities involved include the county and district councils, Plymouth, Torbay, Exeter; as well as Exmoor & Dartmoor National Parks, and all three Clinical Commissioning Groups. Businesses are represented by the Hearth of the South West LEP (HotSW) - one of many across the country, made up of local authorities and businesses that lead on economic growth and job creation.


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The ‘A Prospectus for Productivity’ aims to address the region’s big challenges: Relatively poor economic productivity compared to other parts of the

country A lack of skilled workers especially in key areas such as health and social

care An ageing population which is putting growing pressure on our health

and care services A need for better road, rail and air links; and improved broadband

coverage We are asking for Responsibility over skills budgets and training schemes A key role in supporting business growth Significant funding to further develop transport and IT connectivity Funding and support to build the homes our people need, where they

need them What would Devolution mean? Across the region it could mean:

• 163,000 new jobs • 179,000 more homes • Wages higher than the national average • 400% increase in apprenticeships • faster and more reliable road and rail links • 100% superfast broadband

In Somerset: Government support for a university, a new Garden Town, a national policy on energy generation in the Bristol Channel, an improved natural environment, a more secure rural economy and more tourism. How would Devolution work? A ‘Combined Authority’ would be established made up of representatives from all the partners, who make decisions using the new responsibilities and budgets. An elected mayor may or may not chair the new Combined Authority and, in consultation with partners, be responsible for setting the budget and key plans for the area. District and County Councils wouldn’t be affected and would retain their responsibilities and budgets. Public health Public Health joined the local authority several years ago. It has a budget of about £23m spent on encouraging healthy lifestyles. This prevention work can avoid much higher costs further down the line as people stay healthier, longer.

September 2016

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Seavington Youth Club

Janine Lewis (07922 181948) Our Youth Club closed its doors for the summer at the end of the school year. We ended by celebrating with ice-cream sundaes on a glorious sunny evening. We will resume in September and look forward to beginning again. As always we offer a safe place for the youngsters of the village and surrounding area to meet, with the added benefit of X-Box, Wii, pool, table tennis craft activities, tuck shop and much more. All are welcome from the ages of 8-16. We meet on Mondays from 6.30 - 7.45 pm. Please see Club meeting dates below:

2016 2017

Sept: 12th and 26th Jan:16th and 30th

Oct: 10th and 17th Feb:20th and 27th

Nov:14th and 28th Mar:13th and 27th

Dec:12th Apr:24th

May:8th and 22nd

June:12th and 26th

July:10th

I am a Seenager (Senior Teenager)

I have everything that I wanted as a teenager, only 60 year later. I don’t have to go to school or work. I get an allowance every month. I have my own pad. I don’t have a curfew. I have a driver’s license and my own car. The people I hang around with are not scared of getting pregnant and they do not use drugs. And I don’t have acne Life is great


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Wood-Pigeon

Columbus Palembus16"

Annie (01460 241762) This gentle-looking bird is a great enemy of the farmer and gardener alike because of its appetite for cereals, root crops and vegetables. It ravages the fields all year round and seems impervious to any type of control. From a distance the Wood-Pigeon appears grey but a closer look provides a pinkish breast with a brownish-grey back-slashes of pink and green on the neck where there is a prominent white patch in the adult only. There is a bold white bar across the grey wing which is very striking in flight. A long broad tail terminates in a broad black band. The legs are short and together with the feet are coral coloured. The bill is yellow and slightly hooked to enable the bird to tear out the various leaves of such plants as cabbage and clover. In courtship, the male does an elaborate display in which he rises high in the air, claps his wings and descends in a gentle glide. There is also much bowing with tail raised high and chest puffed out strutting. The male will also feed the female. There is mutual caressing with the bill. This is also used when there is fear and aggression amongst Wood-Pigeons by caressing each other. The nest is a flimsy platform of twigs placed in a tree, bush or rocky ledge. It is “built” by the female from materials collected by the male. Two oval white eggs are laid between February and November and there maybe up to three broods. The young chicks of Wood-Pigeon are called “SQUABS”. There is a unique feeding of the nestlings on “Pigeon’s milk” by both sexes for up to 35 days. This is a cheesy mass in the “crop”, rich in protein and fat and is given to the young about twice daily. The nestlings themselves store it in their own “crops” until they are hungry. The adult birds feed mainly on grain, fruit, seeds, clover, peas and many more vegetables. They have a wonderful way of drinking water by putting their beaks in it and sucking. The song is a far-carrying Coo-coo-coo-coo-coo.

September 2016

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Vacancy for position of SPFA Booking Clerk An interesting and varied opportunity has arisen to help the local Seavington community by becoming the Booking Clerk for the Seavington Playing Field Association which includes the Millennium Hall. The main responsibilities include:

1 being responsible for the management of all bookings, by email or post (for customers who are not online)

2 using the SPFA’s supplied dedicated laptop, to manage and operate the Millennium Hall’s computerised key-card system

3 issuing and collecting key-cards for hirers and others as appropriate

4 the raising of invoices in respect of hire charges, and

5 the holding of the SPFA mobile phone to answer booking and hire enquiries.

By its very nature this is a part-time role with no set hours as any activity will be dependent upon the number of bookings and enquiries. However, this also means that the role can be fitted in and around any family or other commitments. There is also a modest remuneration fee of £120.00 per month being offered for this role. If you would like further details or a full job description for this role, please contact Chris Gough, Chairman by email to: [email protected] Closing Date for applications: 5 September 2016 Seavington Playing Field Association Registered Charity No: 268986

A Woman’s Revenge

'Cash, cheque or charge card?' I asked, after folding items the woman wished to purchase. As she fumbled for her wallet, I noticed a remote control for a television set in her handbag. 'So, do you always carry your TV remote?' I asked. 'No,' she replied, 'but my husband refused to come shopping with me, and I figured this was the most evil thing I could do to him legally.'


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Over the Counter

Mark Ellis (01460 241112)

AGM. At our recent AGM, Ken Lake our treasurer explained that we had had another good year financially with turnover increased to over £100k last year, annual profit again at almost £10k and we are on track to pay off all our loans and repay bondholders as promised. Both shop and café trading is yet again up on previous years indicating to me that the store is wanted and very much used by villagers. Fundraising remains buoyant with just over £5k raised last year and a similar amount predicted this coming year and the store is in a healthy position in it’s 6th year of trading. Given this set of trading results I believe that the shop & café are bringing something back to our community and judging by the many events that are now organised around the shop and café it is popular, accepted by the many and will survive into the future. Cleaning Party. Thank you all for turning up and helping to give the shop exterior it’s annual wash and shampoo. I think you will all agree it looks much smarter now.

Easyfundraising. In the August Seavingtons' News you received a flyer for easyfundraising which we hope you will keep for quick reference when you make on line purchases. Remember we are registered as Seavington Community Store. As many of you are still planning holidays you might like to know that you can book the following through easyfundraising - package holidays, airlines, travel insurance, airport parking, cruises, train travel, car rental and accommodation. You will find dozens of well known companies have signed up to the scheme. We have raised over £40 in just a couple of weeks - so keep spending! Summer Quiz. If you haven’t already then do call in and pick up a quiz sheet from the shop. It is guaranteed to test your brain-power. Supper Night. The next supper night will be Wed Sept 7th where Jane plans to tantalise our taste buds with a curry supper. Please come along and enjoy the convivial company as well as the food. Fashion Show – 29 Sept. Have you bought your ticket for the Fashion Show? Please invite your friends and relations to this fun evening

September 2016

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when you will be treated to a fashion show (with Seavington models) followed by a chance to buy high street brands at greatly reduced prices. There will be a bar and raffle. Nibbles are included in the price of your ticket. So book the date now - Thursday 29 September - and buy your ticket IN ADVANCE from the Shop, or ring Marion on 01460 249522. Quote of the month. “What a super place to meet your café is” Local cycling group Diary dates: Fashion show fundraiser 1930 Thur 29 Sept 2016 - in the Millennium Hall Community shop contact no 01460 249730

Naval Occasions

David Eliot (01460 240758)

15 - Lorimer

One evening in Bahrain in 1968, the officers of HMS GURKHA, of which frigate I was Executive Officer, held a joint Mess Dinner with the local Naval Base, HMS JUFAIR, whereby the Senior Naval Officer Persian Gulf, Commodore Tom Fanshawe, and six of his officers dined onboard, while my Captain took six of us to dine in JUFAIR. While getting ready, my boss showed me two extracts from his volume of Lorimer - despatches from naval, military and political figures in the Middle East from the 1890s to the Great War - saying he would quote them in his after-dinner speech. I agreed likewise. First, a Col. Pelly wrote in 1906 that ’the ideal naval complement for the Persian Gulf would be two steam frigates. The latest design of engines would be desirable. One of these ships should be at sea upholding national interests, while the other should be in harbour preparing for further service’. Indeed; nothing had changed in sixty years. He then continued: ‘A Commodore or Senior Naval Officer is not required for this small force as he will but use his rank to aggrandisize his position’. Ouch! This splendid barb duly convulsed the diners, including, to his credit, our Commodore. But his officers had laughed too soon, for a second Colonel had drily observed in 1908 that ‘the eighty or so inhabitants of the reed-huts of Jufair are distinguished only by their weak eyes and raucous voices’.


14

NICK RUTTER — CHIMNEY SWEEP

Experienced, Approved, Established 10 Years All types of fires and appliances cleaned with brush and vacuum

Full insurance valid certificate issued with every visit

Tel: 01460 52951; www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk

KEV’S CLEANING SERVICES LTD

www.kevscleaningservices.co.uk GUARANTEED a professional and satisfactory job!

Friendly team of reliable and trustworthy window cleaners

Window cleaning inside and out

We also empty, unblock and clean guttering, fascias, Soffits, downpipes and conservatories inside and out.

We can also fix guttering.

Regular and one off cleans

07877 670482 | 07885 451628

September 2016

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A U T O-M O B I L E C R A S H R E P A I R S

(Established over 35 years)

For all your vehicle body repairs from bumper scratches To a full re-spray of cars and light commercials

Our estimates are free ■

Free delivery and pickup service ■

Courtesy car available ■

Insurance approved

Contact Gary James on 01935 823694 or [email protected]

Parrett Works, Martock, on South Petherton to Martock Road

www.automobilecrashrepairs.co.uk

Jimmy James CARPENTRY

& FURNITURE

SINCE 1989

Built-in wardrobes...cabinets… Bookcases...kitchens…

Individually designed and made

For a free quotation ‘phone me on

Ilminster (01460) 53889


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RICHARD CLIFTON PAINTER AND DECORATOR

Interior and exterior work Free written estimates or quotations Good preparation; Attention to detail

Tel: Ilminster (01460) 52544; 07773 373882

Here to help with all your cleaning and Ironing needs. From regular weekly, fortnightly, monthly cleans, one-off Spring cleans, new builds and end of tenancy cleans. Ironing collection service available. Fully insured uniformed and DBS checked. Call Jo on 07855 427 486 [email protected] www.flutterby helpers.co.uk

R A Wicks Ltd

Fireplaces, Stoves & Flues

Fireplace Showroom, Chimneys Relined & New Build HETAS registered installers

Tel: 01460 74612; www.wicksheating.co.uk Fireplace Showroom, Tail Mill Lane, Merriott, TA16 5PF

September 2016

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CANINE SERVICES

Dog Grooming

Friendly Home Environment Will Collect and Deliver

Available Weekdays, Evenings and Weekends Please ‘phone Helen

Mobile: 07867 988109 or 01460 241053

01460 200 000

10 West Street Ilminster

Friendly, professional advice in plain English For Home & Business

www.monkeypuzzlecomputers.com


18

The Warehouse Theatre llminster is a little gem which can be found right in the heart of the town. It brings high quality entertainment throughout the year to audiences of all ages, as well as running a thriving youth theatre and being a venue for local groups and clubs to hire.

Run by Ilminster Entertainments Society (IES) it represents one of the best equipped, professional-standard amateur theatres in the county and facilities include:

Seating for 150 people, fully licensed bar, coffee area, disabled access and T-loop hearing system.

Details of future productions can be found in the local press or on our website: www.thewarehousetheatre.org.uk (plus audition nights, IES Membership, Box Office and more) or call 07943 779880 or email: [email protected]

Your theatre needs you! The Warehouse is run entirely by volunteers and we would love to hear from anyone who would like to get involved by helping backstage or front of house during show weeks, or simply by becoming a member of IES. Can you help?

All types of Electrical work undertaken at very competitive prices including:

New Circuits Electric heating systems Security lighting systems Control systems Emergency lighting systems Maintenance Appliance testing Kitchens Bathrooms Energy saving lighting CCTV Systems Ventilation systems

Free, No obligation Quotes

07980 674480 [email protected] www.dcesystems.co.uk

September 2016

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THE BEECHES BED & BREAKFAST

Water Street, Seavington St Michael Now open for bookings by phone or on-line Local rates apply T: 01460 241 123 www.thebeechesatseavington.co.uk Call for details, or feel free to drop by

St Michael’s Church Seavington Trust

Next sale of Books & Bric-a-Brac

3rd September 2016

at 2, Winchester Cottages

(Opposite The Volunteer)

Second-hand Books and a

Selection of bric-a-brac

A great selection for children of all

ages from stories to study!

NB—Open 10.00 am to 2.00 pm

please come and browse

Shepton Beauchamp Pre-school

With 45 years experience we have created a fabulous environment for your child to learn and have fun!

Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday

9.00 am—3.00 pm Friday 9.00 am—1.15 pm

Baby and Toddler Group on

Thursday mornings

Call Shelley: 07765 437301 or [email protected]

or meet us at the Village Hall. We would love to see you!


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It’s Bonfire Time It’s that time of year, as Autumn falls upon us, that we turn to tidying our gardens and having huge bonfires to clear up the debris. When we give in to this primitive urge we should remember the welfare of our neighbours—they may have a thatched roof to which your embers may pose a fire risk or they may be sitting in their gardens, choking from your smoke whilst they try and take advantage of the last sunny day before winter. The South Somerset District Council offers some guidance which is reproduced below: If smoke from a bonfire causes a nuisance to others, we can serve an Abatement Notice requiring the nuisance to stop. Breach of an Abatement Notice is an offence. Alternatives to bonfires include home composting and taking green waste to the nearest waste recycling centre. Bonfires are less likely to make smoke if only dry material is burned and the fire is quick and hot. There are no local byelaws about bonfires. Our advice is that you should have bonfires only occasionally and at times and in weather conditions when the smoke is unlikely to cause nuisance to your neighbours. If you are going to have a bonfire, follow these simple rules: Think about composting as an alternative or taking your waste to a local recycling centre. Burn only dry materials Never burn general household rubbish, plastics, foam,

treated wood or similar items Check no-one has any laundry drying in nearby gardens and

remember that smoke can drift some way It is often a good idea to let your neighbours know if you

planning to light a bonfire Don't have a fire late in the evening as the smoke tends to

hang close to the ground. Have a quick, hot fire to reduce smoke emissions. Remember your personal safety and never use liquid fuels to get a fire going.

September 2016

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From Your Parish Council

Pauline Parsons ( 01460 240193) Residents will have noticed that the Highways Authority have been working along the C5021 for sometime and finally it has been surfaced-dressed. This follows a comprehensive Report that the Parish Council received following the numerous incidents that have happened, particularly to the west of the villages, over a number of years. We can only wait and see if these works lead to a dramatic drop in vehicles leaving the road, particularly in damp conditions. Also, you may have noticed that the vegetation on the bank as you come from Lopen Head into Seavington St Michael has been cut back further. The Parish Council would like to thank the local farmer who arranged for this to be done. To this end are there any volunteers out there who would like to help to clear some areas of the bank in order to plant some smaller shrubs - perhaps dogwood and encourage wild flowers to grow. A plan for this was drawn up several years ago but never acted upon. The Parish Council feels that by tidying up this area the traffic may slow down before entering the villages. [One can always hope!!] If you are interested in helping please contact any Parish Councillor or e-mail [email protected]. We would hope to carry out some of the work in September or October.

SPFA Village Lottery

Jackie Priddle (01460 240734)

Here are the winners of the August 2016 SPFA Lottery draw:

August 2016

First £35 June Shaw-Brundell

Second £20 John Cooper

Third £15 Amanda Jaggers

Fourth £10 Jo Lock

Fifth £10 David Froome


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Seavington Gardening Club

Kate Mulligan (01460 242023) Flower Show 13th August 2016 The Gardening Club has been lucky this year with good weather for our garden visits and to top it all a glorious day for the annual Flower Show. It has not been the easiest of growing years with the usual gardener’s com-plaints of either too much rain at the wrong time or too little rain when it is needed most. We had a record number of entries and turnout to support the event was excellent so a big thank you to those who gave it a go and to those who provided their support. Special mention has to go to the home baking section where both the num-ber and standard of entries was exceptional. There will be a lot of Victoria Sponges and Coffee and Walnut Cakes eaten around Seavington over the next few days.

Your Magazine, Your Help Wanted

David Froome, Editor (01460 249445; [email protected])

The Seavingtons’ News has been running as a village magazine, delivered free to every home and business in our villages since 1982, some thirty-four years. This has been achieved under a succession of editors but, more importantly, it has enjoyed the support of all our village organisation and clubs, whose progress and events it has recorded and of numerous residents who have written articles of interest to all. Whilst this issue is a fat one, due mainly to our Gardening Club and the Somerset County Council (see the following pages and pages 6-8) we seem to almost have run out of contributors from village residents. I cannot believe that you have all given up your hobbies and interests or forgotten the fun you have, or had, at work (see page 13 for example). Thus, I am appealing for contributors to keep us interested and entertained in the years to come. Please get in touch to discuss what you can offer—it does not have to be sophisticated or clever, just interesting.

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Our panel of judges, who are all anonymous and independent, were very thorough in their work. Thank you to them for giving their time to do what often proved to be a difficult decision-making job. Also, thanks must go to Ann Wills for presenting the prizes and Annie Prichard for running the raf-fle, As usual we had a Gardening Club Members Growing Competition which began earlier this year with a tiny geranium plug plant. Keeping it growing and flourishing proved difficult for some of us but the final results indicate that some people do have green fingers. A full list of results follows but here is just a summary: Winner of Division 1: Flowers - Chris Ginger Winner of Division 2: Vegetables - Vernon White Winner of Division 3: Baking and Craft - Chris Ginger Winner of Division 4: Children’s Section - Holly Lewis Overall Show Winner: First Place - Chris Ginger 36pts. Second Place - Vernon White 27pts. Third Place - Glynis Tipping and Pauline Parsons 17pts. each Best Floral exhibit - Pauline Parsons Best Floral Arrangement (RHS Grenfell Medal) - Chris Ginger Winner of Members Growing Competition - Marian Pattison Winner of Most Popular Class - Sweet Peas - Anne Wills If you’ve been inspired to have a go yourself then the new schedule will be published early next year. You do not have to be a member of the Garden-ing Club - but we’d love you to join us - or you must live within a two mile radius of the Seavington Village boundaries. Forthcoming Events Thursday 8th September - 7.30pm in the Millennium Hall - a talk by Chris Smith from Pennard Plants about “Agapanthus”. Plants will be for sale. Raffle and refreshments available. New members welcome or visitors £2 payable at the door. Monday 12th September - members only visit 10.30am - talk and 25% dis-count shopping event at Castle Gardens (garden centre) Sherborne . For further information please contact Karen Day tel. 01460 249728 The full results follow overleaf:

The S

eavingtons’ New

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24 1st 2nd 3rd

Division 1 ‐ Flowers

1 Roses ‐ Large Flowered x John Tudor x

2 Roses ‐ Single Specimen Lis Tope John Tudor Karen Day

3 Roses ‐ Clustered Flowered John Tudor Mary Wyatt Karen Day

4 Pansies or Violas Jane White Shelia Reyland Lis Tope

5 Vase of Annuals Pauline Parsons Karen Day Anne Wills

6 Vase Mixed Perennials Lis Tope Chris Ginger Mike Pollock

7 Vase of Perennial Flowers Chris Ginger Jenny Deubert Karen Day

8 Oriental Lily x x x

9 Dahlias ‐ Decorative Anne Wills Karen Day Shelia Reyland

10 Dahlias ‐ Miscellaneous Kate Mulligan Anne Wills Pauline Parsons

11 Gladioli Pauline Parsons Chris Ginger Jenny Deubert

12 Gladioli ‐ Specimen Chris Ginger Pauline Parsons John Tudor

13 Sweet Peas Anne Wills Jenny Deubert Chris Ginger

14 Flower Arrangement ‐ Child's Christening Lis Tope Chris Ginger Pauline Parsons

15 Flower Arrangement ‐ in a sherry glass Lis Tope Pauline Parsons Jane White

16 Arrangement of Seed Heads Chris Ginger Pauline Parsons Lis Tope

17 Foliage Arrangement Chris Ginger Joy Madge Lis Tope

18 Foliage Pot Plant Glynis Tipping Shelia Reyland x

19 Flowering Pot Plant Karen Day Jenny Deubert Fred Ginger

Overall: 1st ‐ Chris Ginger, 19 pts; 2nd ‐ Lis Tope, 15 pts; 3rd ‐ Pauline Parsons, 14 pts

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1st 2nd 3rd

Division 2 ‐ Vegetables

20 Potatoes ‐ White Vernon White Jane White Linda George

21 Potatoes ‐ Coloured Jane White Vernon White x

22 Onions (dressed) Glynis Tipping Vernon White Mike Pollock

23 Largest Onion (dressed) Glynis Tipping x x

24 Shallots (dressed) Vernon White Glynis Tipping x

25 Shallots, pickling Vernon White Glynis Tipping x

26 Beetroot Mike Pollock David Wills x

27 Runner Beans Vernon White Jenny Deubert Jane White

28 Longest Runner Bean David Wills Vernon White Linda George & Fred Ginger

29 French Beans Linda George Mike Pollock Jenny Deubert

30 Collection of 3 Salad Vegetables Jo Mills x x

31 Courgettes Mary Wyatt Mike Pollock Graham Parsons

32 Arrangement of different Herbs Mike Pollock Jo Mills Chris Ginger

33 Carrots Vernon White David Wills Jane White

34 Tomatoes Jane White David Wills Jo Mills

35 Tomatoes (cherry type) Karen Day Vernon White David Wills

36 Tomatoes on the Vine Vernon White David Wills x

37 Trug of Mixed Vegetables Mike Pollock Jane White Vernon White

38 Garden Freak x x x

39 Lettuce x x x

Overall: 1st ‐ Vernon White, 27 pts; 2nd ‐ Mike Pollock, 14 pts; 3rd ‐ David Wills & Jane White, 12 pts

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Division 3

40 Homemade Lime Curd Chris Ginger Graham Parsons Janine Lewis

41 Homemade Jam Linda George Jo Mills Janine Lewis

42 Homemade Marmalade Chris Ginger Linda George Fred Ginger

43 Homemade Chutney Linda George Roger Wotton Nicky Wotton

44 Savoury Quiche Sue Doble Janine Lewis Linda George

45 Coffee and Walnut Cake Janine Lewis Joy Madge Graham Parsons

46 Victoria Sponge Glynis Tipping Sue Doble Janine Lewis

47 Five Cheese Straws Chris Ginger Graham Parsons Glynis Tipping

48 Three Rum or Chocolate Truffles Karen Sutton Janine Lewis Graham Parsons

49 Photograph ‐ Family Celebration Sarah Day John Tudor Pauline Parsons

50 Photograph ‐ Wildlife in the Garden Roger Wotton Nicky Wotton Karen Day

51 Craft Item Jo Mills Pauline Parsons & Chris

Ginger x

Overall: 1st ‐ Chris Ginger, 11 pts; 2nd ‐ Janine Lewis, 10 pts; 3rd ‐ Linda George, 9 pts

1st 2nd 3rd

Division 4 ‐ Children

52 Animal made from Fruit & Vegetables x x x

53 Miniature Garden on a Plate x x x

54 3 Chocolate Cornflake Cakes x x x

55 Animal made from Fruit & Vegetables Holly Lewis Arthur Lewis Ruth Lewis

56 Matchbox containing as many different items as possible Arthur Lewis Ruth Lewis Holly Lewis

57 3 Plain Flapjacks Jorja Doble Ruth Lewis & Holly Lewis x

58 Photograph ‐ 'Weather' Hannah Day x x

Overall: 1st ‐ Holly Lewis , 6 pts; 2nd ‐ Ruth Lewis & Arthur Lewis , 5 pts; 3rd ‐ Jorja Doble & Hannah Day, 3 pts

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Shepton Beauchamp Pre-school News

Charlie Pattison (01460 241396) We would like to start by wishing Arabella, Bertie, Madison, Poppy, Rhona, Frankie, Ethan and Freddie a very happy time at Shepton Primary School - we will miss you hugely but look forward to hearing all about your adventures in Coles Class. September is already looking busy with BINGO night at the Duke of York on the 19th September - eyes down at 7.30 and our AGM on the 26th September, we are hoping to recruit a new committee with lots of ideas and enthusiasm for the year ahead. This term we will start our Welly Walks again around the fields and lanes of the village, it is amazing how much children learn and absorb on these walks - please come and say “hello” if you see us! Father Geoff will be our brilliant Story Teller on Wednesday mornings and Shelley, Kath and Donna have some brilliant topics lined up for the start of term. Our Baby and Toddler Group meet on Thursday 8th September from 9am - all welcome for a chat and a cuppa while the children play. We hope you have all had a good summer. If you would like to know more about our lovely Pre School or our monthly Toddler Group please call Shelley or Kath (07765 437301) or call in and see us at The Village Hall in Shepton Beauchamp: www.sheptonbeauchamppreschool.co.uk

Don’t Forget—Be There! There is an SPFA Special Open Meeting on Tuesday 13th September 2016 at 7:30pm in the Millennium Hall. (see page 4) We MUST show our support to the new committee so that our community can continue to enjoy the SPFA facilities and Millennium Hall.


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The Seavingtons’ News wants to hear and publish your views on both the “News” itself and topics of importance or interest to our community. Please send your letters to the address on page 1. All opinions and views expressed are the sole responsibility of the writer and do not reflect the views of The Seavingtons’ News. For legal reasons we must have the name and address of the writer but can normally publish over a pseudonym on request.

Village Voice—letters to the editor

Dear Sir, It is with great sadness I read the letter re ‘Dog Pooping’ in the recent magazine. Although I was not living in Seavington the last time this became an issue, having only lived here for 10 years, but I understand a meeting was called to discuss, and it had the most divisive effect upon the villages. The hall was packed to capacity with emotions running high. As is pointed out, this is a village amenity, but it is our two villages, for all who live in them, and should not be used to favour of any one group over another. Without doubt all the dog owner/walkers are aware of the `few` who transgress by not removing their dog’s excrement from the field and surround. To my knowledge, the offenders I have seen, are all from outside the boundary of St Mary and St Michael, and as such we should be looking to ‘educate’ those committing the offence, rather than punishing the socially responsible residents of the Seavingtons. Should any live in Seavington, they will know who they are, and should be more considerate of the neighbours. In the interest of village community spirit, which I understand the SPFA is very keen to engender, it might be a suggestion in the first instance, for the SPFA to contact surrounding village magazine editors or enlist the help of the Parish Council so to do, with a view to drawing attention to the fact "whilst the residents of The Seavingtons are happy to see neighbouring villagers visiting, it is not a general public amenity, and we would appreciate all walkers of dogs to remove to the bins provided, all excrement left by their dogs " . I have, in the past, picked up after an unknown dog (having carried a spare bag) taken the bag with contents to the owner responsible in the car park, presented it to them, and directed them to the ‘poo bins’ on opposite sides of the field. Where I am delighted to say the offending article was deposited. I must say, this should be done with a gentle smile rather than aggression, as most people when confronted by the obvious, are only too happy to comply. I would like to point out at this juncture, that I have not seen too many

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foxes carrying their own disposal bags, and it should be remembered that wild life roams free, and goes where it likes, and a lot of people are not able to identify the different types of excrement. I will forward a copy of this e-mail to the Chairman of the SPFA, as I understand it is the AGM open meeting this evening, and I believe the matter may crop up under A O B yours faithfully Moira Ensor

Recipe of the month Taken from the Seavingtons’ Swing Park 2000 Four Seasons Cook Book

Holiday Yoghurt cake This cake is great for children to make during boring school holidays and came from ‘Women’s Hour’ in the 1970’s. It is endlessly adaptable and you can use any flavouring you want. Keeps very well and is good for school lunches. Ingredients: 1 small pot of natural yoghurt 2 pots self-raising flour – white or whole wheat 2 pots sugar –brown or white ¼ pot oil Grated lemon or orange rind (optional) or handful nuts, sultanas or chocolate chips (optional) 2 eggs Pinch of salt Method: Heat oven to 350º F, 180º C, Gas 4 Line a small loaf tin with baking paper Use yoghurt pot to measure ingredients into a bowl and mix with a wooden spoon. Pour mixture into the tin. Place on middle shelf and bake for 45 minutes when cooked the cake will feel springy when pressed on the top. Cool the cooked cake for 15 mins in tin, turn out and cool on wire rack. (If using a round tin do remember to line the tin and cook for slightly longer)


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A Reminder:

County Council Complaint ‘phone Number The Somerset County Council now has a single telephone number through which you may report problems such as potholes, drainage issues etc:

0300 123 2224

Curtain making, dressmaking & alterations ‘phone Jennifer, South Petherton 01460 242766

A GREAT GIRLS' NIGHT OUT! Travelling Trends presents a

FASHION SHOW

Buy your favourite high street brands at the show - AT BARGAIN PRICES!

on THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER Bar opens @ 7pm, Show starts @ 7.30pm in THE MILLENNIUM HALL,

Water Street, Seavington St Mary TA19 0QH

Proceeds in aid of Seavington Community Store

TICKETS @ £7.50 (includes nibbles) MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE from the Seavington Community Shop

Tel: 01460 249522. Address as above. OR ring Marion on 01460 249522

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Brook House Bed & Breakfast, Dowlish Wake

Country house comfort with a very warm welcome

King size room and super King/twin room • ensuite bathrooms exceptional quality • guest sitting room • off road parking

tea and cake on arrival

www.brookhousesomerset.com or call Becky Jam 07841 594342


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Marilyn Hills BA MA UKCP regd. Psychotherapist and Supervisor

Psychotherapy can help you with : Stress : Anxiety : Depression : Loss : Personal growth : Relationships

I also offer couples therapy

Contact me for a FREE Introductory Session Tel: 01460 249176 or mobile: 07540 337 156

email : [email protected] Please visit my website for more information:

www.marilyn-hills-psychotherapist.co.uk

PUGSON CONSTRUCTION

General building, Re-pointing, Landscaping, Chimneys and roofing, Stoves installed by Hetas approved engineer, Oftec certified oil tank installations, removal and replacements. Call Nigel in Seavington St Mary for a quote on 01460 391595, mobile 07731323005. [email protected]

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Portable Appliance Testing (PAT); Electrical Power Quality Analyser Periodic Inspection Reports (Domestic and Commercial)

Fire Alarm and Emergency Light Testing; Wireless Inspection Camera

Domestic & Commercial Work Undertaken:

Rewires ● Additional sockets

Extensions ● Listed building work

Computer/Telephone points ● Whole House sound systems

Security and Access Lighting ● CCTV Camera Installation

Fire Alarms; Nurse Call Systems ● Control Panel design & build

Electrical accessories ● Engraving of labels

Cable laying and ducting ● Outside Events

Electrical Door/ Gate Systems ● Intercom and Entry Systems

Mobile: 07808 049034

Contact: 01460 279279 [email protected]


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Welcome to the

New Inn Warm & Friendly Welcome

Bed & Breakfast A la Carte Menu

Local Ciders & Fine Wines Monthly Quiz Night

Large car park

18th Century Traditional Public House Picturesque Beer garden

Bar Snacks & Chefs Daily Specials Locally Supplied Well Kept Real Ales

Richard’s Home Made Sunday Lunch Roasts

Open 7 days a week 11.30am - 3.00pm (Lunch & Bar Snacks available until 2.30pm)

6.00pm – 11.00pm (Evening Meal available until 8.45pm)

Table & Room Bookings - (01460) 52413 www.newinn-ilminster.co.uk

New Inn, Dowlish Wake, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 ONZ

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South Somerset RSPB Group

My Antarctic Adventure (following the AGM)

An illustrated talk presented by Chris Harper, who had two trips on HMS Endurance during his time in the Royal Navy. A fantastic experience which took him to mainland Antarctica, South Georgia, Tristan de Cunha & St. Helena. Wonderful views of elephant seals, penguins, albatross and many other birds/wildlife.

Thursday 15th September 7.30pm The Millennium Hall, Seavington St Mary Entry: Group members £2.50, non-group members £3.50, under 18’s free

(tea/coffee & biscuits included) – wheelchair access

NON-MEMBERS VERY WELCOME

For further details contact: Denise Chamings (group leader) on 01460240740 www.rspb.org.uk/groups/southsomerset

A registered charity: England & Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC37654

SEAVINGTON SHOP AND CAFE

THE CAFE MOVES INTO AUTUMN! with hot chocolate, soups and delicious cakes SENIORS' LUNCH on Monday 12 September SUPPER CLUB on Wednesday 7 September

Please book in advance for both events to avoid disappointment

NEW IN THE SHOP! Diaries, calendars, memo cubes, shopping list note pads

and sticky note folders. Plus a wide selection of envelopes, packaging, sellotape,

blutack, labels, wrapping paper and string

WE STOCK A GREAT SELECTION OF BEERS AND CIDERS Butcombe, IPA, Dombar, Guiness Dublin Porter and Crabbies

Cider Bug, Burrow Hill, Perry's - Vintage, Somerset Red Streak and Dabinett

Shop opening Monday - Friday 8.30am - 6.00pm, Saturdays 9.00am - 3.00pm Cafe opening Monday - Friday 10.00am - 4.00pm, Saturdays 10.00am - 2.00pm

Seavingtons' Village Store & Cafe, Water St, Seavington St Mary TA19 0QH. Tel: 01460 249730


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The Seavingtons’ Weather in Ju ly 2016

This year—2016 Previous year—2015

Temperature

Average Minimum 12.18C 11.62°C

Average Maximum 22.16°C 21.13°C

Mean 17.17°C 16.38°C

Rainfall

Monthly Total 3.8 mm (0.156") 69.9 mm (2.80")

Total for the year 463.4 mm (18.54") 332.3 mm (13.30")

The hottest day of the month was Tuesday 19th July at 31.3°C (88.3°F) It was the driest July since 1999 which had 2.9 mm of rain and which

was followed by a wet August and September!

Seavington Playing Field Association (Registered Charity No: 268986)

Apple Harvest Supper

Friday 21st October, 7.00 pm for 7.30 pm at the Seavington Millennium Hall

Entertainment, music and song Please bring your own drink

(and apple corer!)

Tickets £ 7; under 16 £4; Family Ticket £20 Available from Seavington Village Store and

Annie Prichard (01460 241762 + Answerphone) (On sale from Monday 19th September)

JUST THINGS The fair trade shop in the first Fairtrade town in South Somerset

33A, Silver Street, Ilminster, TA19 0DW (opposite the Minster and the Dolphin)

We sell a wide range of fairly traded gifts, toys, jewellery, clothes, bags, food and much more.

Telephone: 01460 394931 Mobile: 07816 788457

Email: [email protected] Website: www.just-things.co.uk

Opening times: 9.30am – 5.00pm Tuesday to Saturday Closed: Sunday and Monday

¤ Computer Repairs & Upgrades ¤ Custom PCs ¤ Virus Removal ¤

¤ 1-2-1 Tutorials ¤ Public Internet Access ¤ ¤ A4 & A3 Printing, Copying, Scanning, Laminating & Faxing ¤

¤ Website Design & Maintenance ¤ Internet Security ¤ ¤ Computer Accessories & Hardware ¤

¤ Ink Cartridges & Consumables ¤

01460 259999

24a Ditton Street,

Ilminster

AA mag September 2016 - theseavingtons.org3rd Wednesday 10.00am “GET2GETHER” Group in Village Café 2nd Thursday 7.30pm Seavington Gardening Club To keep up to date, check out

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