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October 2014
THE
Craft Fayre Details in Centre Pull-out
24a Ditton Street, Ilminster, Opposite Tesco Garage
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A4 & A3 Printing, Copying, Scanning & Faxing
Repairs & Upgrades
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Website Design & Maintenance
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Computer Peripherals, Hardware and more…..
Windows 8 Custom PCs
October 2014
1
It looks as if the future of the Seavingtons’ News is safe, at least for the time being. Following last month’s appeal for new volunteers to collate, staple and deliver our magazine to the street distributors, two families look as if they will share the work. They will be learning “on the job” with this month’s issue once I have completed this editorial and run off the 340 copies of all 32 pages and the Craft Fayre insert. This news is encouraging since it shows that, once again, our community pulls together when the need arises. Similarly, it is good to see the Village Diary, overleaf, filling up with events and activities now that the Summer “laze” is over. You will see from this month’s insert that our community shop is again setting up one of its craft fayres for the lead up to Christmas. These events have proved extremely popular in the past, offering a business opportunity to home craftspeople and somewhere local to find unique presents for yourself, friends and family. Well worth a visit. When our family visit us they often stock up on “non-supermarket” items from our community shop. It is therefore comforting to read the report from the Community Shop Association’s chairman on current operations (see page 22). The committee must be congratulated on the way it has broadened the range of stock and services offered and improved the trading position. 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 10th October until am Monday 13th October The Latest Copy Date is the 15th October 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
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All events, unless otherwise shown, are held in the Millennium Hall For bookings call 07914 710926
For other Millennium Hall matters call Pauline Parsons on 01460 240193
9th October 6.30 pm Gardening Club: Guest Night Buffet & Talk: “On Wings & Wind – The Pollination of Flowers” - p15
11th October 7.30 pm Flix in the Stix at Hinton St George Village Hall—”In Secret” (Cert 15) - p 19
13th October Noon Seniors’ Lunch in Village Café—p 23
16th October 7.30 pm RSPB Group talk on Birds in Flight—p 31
17th October 7.30 pm Apple Harvest Supper—p31
1st November 7.30 pm SPFA evening of music “Serenade in Concert” - p 20
5th November Village Bonfire & Fireworks— p4
14th November 7.30 pm St Michael’s Church Music Quiz—p 14
Regular Activities
2nd Monday Noon Pensioners’ Lunches in Village Café
1st Saturday 9.00 am—2.00 pm
St Michael’s Church Seavington Trust Book Sale at 2, Winchester Cottages (opposite The Volunteer)
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
5th October 11.30 am St Michael’s Church Harvest Festival —p 30
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
October 2014
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Editorial: David Froome & Maria Potts Advertising: Tony Beresford Production: David & Wendy Eliot Technical & web-site support: Eugene Mulligan Graphics & Visual Support: George Brown
Village web-site:www.theseavingtons.org
Contributions are welcomed. You may submit electronically or by handwritten or typed 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 £90 £10
½ Page £45 £5 ¼ Page £25 £3
Advertising enquiries to: [email protected]
A d v e r t i s i n g R a t e s
5th October 11.30 am Harvest Festival—see p 30
12th October 8.00 am Holy Communion (BCP)
12th October 11.30 am Café Church at Seavington Café
19th October 11.30 am Holy Communion (BCP with hymns)
26th October
NB No service in Seavington on the fifth Sunday of each month but you are welcome to join the services in St Peter & St Paul’s, South Petherton.
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
The Seavingtons’ News
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News from Seavington Playing Field Association
Pauline Parsons (01460 240193) The Committee are pleased to advise that Grants have been secured for the installation of the tarmac path (Thanks to Ry Coffman for all her efforts on this) but more monies still have to be raised. Because the SPFA is a registered charity and the field is owned by them unfortunately VAT has to be paid and consequently on a project like this the amount is quite substantial. At the moment we are looking at specifications to find the best possible solution for price and access. One way of increasing the monies available would be for individuals to purchase a solar light at a cost of £25. These look like paviors and will be set into the path. It is anticipated that as a minimum we would need 70 of these. Consequently at present we are asking you to show if you are interested in supporting the scheme in this way. Please let any member of the Committee know if you wish to make a ‘pledge’, and for how much. We would not be looking for monies until the work on the project takes place, hopefully, early next year. Also we are asking villagers to support the next batch of fund raising events. Friday 17th October – Apple Harvest Supper – tickets on sale in the Shop or contact Annie Prichard. Part way through the evening we will be doing ‘Play Your Cards Right’. At the present there is a roll-over jackpot of £50 already available. This will be added to depending on the number of £1 tickets sold on the evening. Please join us for what was a very enjoyable evening last year, and you maybe the lucky winner. Wednesday 5th November – Bonfire and Fireworks – entry free but hotdogs, burgers will be on sale and we will be asking for donations to meet the cost of the fireworks. Saturday 1st November – Serenade Concert – more information to follow – proceeds will be shared between Serenade’s nominated charity and SPFA. General Maintenance – The shed now needs painting. Are there any volunteers out there that could help with this please? Also part of the hedge on the roadside from the car park up is now only weeds which will soon disappear. One way forward would be post and rails as an interim measure whilst the hedge is replaced, but again we need volunteers to help with this. Gated area between Hall and Cafe area – Often both of the gates to this area are left open. They were put in place to keep animals out of the area and to keep children safe when parents were using the Cafe. Can we please ask that if you open these gates, as with any gate in the countryside, you close it behind you. Many thanks.
October 2014
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"South Meade" garden opening for the NGS
Robin & Charo Ritchie (01460 249690) We were so lucky with the weather, only one day of the six days we opened was wet. We made £527 for the NGS on the door. From the plant sale and one afternoon tea/cakes a total £140 was made and has been donated to Cat Protection. Thank you to all my helpers Annie Pritchard, Lis Tope, David & Patricia Howell who so kindly gave their time to make a very pleasant week. We were pleased to hear the cafe takings were very good with extra visitors to Seavington requiring some nourishment and hydration before or after walking around South Meade garden, Lots of thank you for those in the village who came to support this good cause, I still keep meeting people who do not know about the NGS. The very short version is that all over UK private gardens of different sizes from a backyard to large mansions open to the public. Each garden decides when is the best time to visit and the entry charge, which goes in the pot at the end of the year when it is given to nine charities. Last year - Macmillan Cancer support and Marie Curie Cancer Care received £450.00 each, Help the Hospices £400.00, Carers Trust £300.00, Queen's Nursing Institute £200.00, NT Gardening Institute £200.00, Parkinson's UK and Perennial £100.00 each, Garden Museum £8.00. By the time you read this the nights will be drawing in and the gardens will be going to sleep - you think? Wishing you all a very scary Halloween, lots of fun at bonfire night and a very Merry Christmas with our best wishes for the New Year.
World Record Attempt—South Petherton
On Saturday 11th October there will be an attempt to break a bell ringing world record at South Petherton Church. A band of 12 ringers will attempt to ring 21,216 changes without a fault or pause to beat the current record of 16,368 set in 1965 at Birmingham Cathedral. For the technical, the method will be Cambridge Surprise Maximus.
The Seavingtons’ News
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Just two days of Herbert Baker’s war
Robin Gilbert (01460 242042) I suppose most of those who were born during the 1920’s or 1930’s had a close relation who had been caught up in the First World War. In my case it was my mother’s father, the grandfather who I never met for he died at the age of fifty eight the year before I was born. The closest I get is to stand at my grandparents’ grave at Upottery Churchyard. I have done this in recent years around Armistice Day. It was a tradition at Upottery that all those who had served during the Two World Wars had a British Legion Cross placed at their grave side. This ceased a good few years ago, so it is now up to family members to continue the tradition if they so wish.
Also in Christmas 1944, I had the honour of meeting a local paratrooper who had escaped the hell of Arnhem. He later married a cousin of mine; they are also buried at Upottery. So to make my journey worth while I place two crosses to honour old soldiers, one from each of the World Wars. I never heard a lot about my grandfather whilst I was growing up, but if you stop and think about it our parents spent ten years of their lives involved in World Wars. I only recently discovered that one of my childhood neighbours who suffered a speech impediment, had acquired it during a WW1 gas attack. I never even knew he was an old soldier until long after his death.
After my mother passed away, I came across a telegram from my grandfather telling of his safe arrival at Alexandria Egypt dated July 1917 and a single page from a small note pad with hand written notes written by him whilst on active service with the Dorset Yeomanry in the Middle East whilst they were fighting the German and Turkish armies.
Herbert & Elizabeth Baker
October 2014
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His notes quoted. “Thursday 26th held up by the enemy about 40 miles from Damascus. Friday 0500hrs 27th. standing to, throughout the night. About 1500 hrs came to a village Ramoth (Er Remte) where Turks put up a fight. We captured their machine guns (20) killing several. Take a number of prisoners. Our losses 2 killed and eleven wounded including Swatridge, Captain Lees and Lieutenant Mason (badly) staying here tonight.” “Saturday 28th 0500hrs moving off, 1500 hrs at Deraa a large station junction were the Turks were routed out by King Hajas troops who set fire to buildings and served the Turks badly stripping them of almost everything. We stay here tonight to keep order as the Arab troops were burning all buildings; they have already looted every thing imaginable, the natives from the village were also carrying nearly everything they could lay their hands on in fact it is nothing but ruins left of what, yesterday, must have been a fine place for a Turkish station. The Arabs made the attack during the night. We should have been well on the road for Damascus had it not been for this event’ Sunday 29th 0700hrs left Deraa 1700hrs putting down for the night. One thing my mother had told me was that her father claimed on his travels he had seen Lawrence of Arabia. Trying to make sense of grandfather’s notes I managed to acquire a copy of the Records of the Dorset Yeomanry. 1914 – 1918, It took me just minutes to find the year, because he had mentioned the fate of Captain Lees and Lieutenant Mason. In the words from the Dorset Yeomanry Records—“Affair of Er Remte Sept 27th 1918”. The fire fight went briskly on and the Turks gallantly advancing, gained the shelter of some dead ground at the foot of the Dorset position, and were within a hundred yards of it. Now was Lidderdales opportunity. The ground was favourable and dead. Mounting his three troops he advanced with two troops of B Squadron in the first line and one troop of “A” in support. Changing direction to the left, he came right on the Turks, and, in the words of the Commander in Chief, delivered a “highly successful charge” killing and capturing the whole lot – fifty in number. The remainder of the Turks at position Y now withdrew and were at once followed by “C” Squadron. The Turks gained Er Remte, and soon afterwards white flags fluttered here and there. One was displayed from an isolated two- storey building to the west of the village, and it was in approaching this that Captain Lees was wounded and
The Seavingtons’ News
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Lieutenant Mason was mortally wounded, while two men were killed and two wounded by bombs hurled from the upper storey. Maddened by this treachery the white flagged building was rushed in gallant style by Lieutenant Montezuma and Corporal White who dashed up the staircase and killed the occupants. The Dorset’s now captured the village, taking four machine guns and 100 prisoners. Besides the casualties already mentioned, the Dorset’s had 2nd Lieutenant L.M Taylor wounded, one other rank died of wounds and eight other ranks wounded. Between thirty and forty Turks were killed, either by sword or rifle fire. The next day Sept 28th at dawn, an officer’s patrol, under Lieutenant Montezuma, was sent forward to reconnoitre Deraa. Arrived within sight of the town, heavy rifle fire was heard and Montezuma was undecided what to do, and before he could determine his future action two well dressed Arabs approached the patrol, and were promptly made prisoners. One of them in perfect English, asked Montezuma what Regiment he belonged to, who, taken unawares, replied “The Dorset Yeomanry” “Then take me to Colonel Mason” said the Arab, who, on further acquaintance proved to be no less a personage that Colonel Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) The brigade reached Deraa. An eye witness writes “Words fail to describe the appalling scenes that the Station settlement presented. Many Turkish dead and wounded lying unheeded, in agony about the roads and buildings; hordes of local Arabs were hurrying hither and thither, carrying off furniture and other loot; the whole area was littered with books, papers, machinery, and quantities of property. Wantonly destroyed, and scattered about by the marauders. Locomotives and railway carriages had been burnt, broken up, and stripped of important accessories, for no reason than sheer lust for destruction. The cruelty exhibited by the irresponsible Arabs to the miserable, vanquished Turks was abominable in the extreme. The arrival of the British troops however restored order. Looting ceased, the wounded were gathered in and tended, and the dead buried”
New Parish Councillors
Pauline Parsons (01460 240193) Following the resignation of Sally Cooper and Peter Ashley we now have two new Parish Councillors who were co-opted on 5th August 2014. They are : Nick Loxton - telephone number 01460 242435 and Dennis Smith - telephone number 01460 249138
October 2014
9
Purpose built canine hydrotherapy facility in Donyatt Large, heated pool and state of the art underwater treadmill
All treatments carried out by a qualified hydrotherapist Evening and weekend appointments available
Conditions treated include: i Arthritis i Cruciate injuries
i Elbow and hip dysplasia i Patellar luxation i Obesity
i General fitness
Benefits include: i Improved range of motion
of joints i Increased muscle strength
and tone i Reduced swelling i Improved circulation
Dogs at Donyatt, Donyatt Garage, Donyatt, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 0RG T: 01460 55151 E: [email protected] [email protected]
St. Michael's Church Seavington invites you to join us for
'Café Church'
to be held every Second Sunday of the month at 11.30pm.
The Café is situated in the Community Shop, next to Seavington Millennium Hall.
Everybody Welcome—Come and join in! N.B. there will be no service in the Church at 11.30
The Seavingtons’ News
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Seavington
Conservation and new works undertaken Visit our website to view gallery: www.mwlayzell-builders.co.uk Tel: 01460 249468 or e-mail: [email protected]
WISHING WELL CUPCAKES
Luxury Homemade Cupcakes, Cakes, Cookies and Bakes
Special Occasions and Events ƕ Large Parties to Small Gifts Wedding Cupcake Towers ƕ Birthday and Occasion Cakes
Quality Ingredients - Organic Flour, Butter & Cocoa, Local Free Range Eggs
Contact Sarah – 01460 241320 / 07709194559 www.wishingwellcupcakes.co.uk [email protected]
Fully registered & 5 Star Rating with South Somerset District Council
LIFT WEST MOT & TYRE CENTRE
Class 4 - £40
Cars, Taxis, Minibuses up to 12 seats, Goods Vehicles not exceeding 3000KG DGW, Motor Caravans & Dual Purpose Vehicles
Lift West Ltd, Lopen Head Business Park, Lopen Head, TA13 5JH
Tel: 01460242400 Email: [email protected]
Also available Class 5 and Class 7 Also Available Air Conditioning All Vehicle Repairs Undertaken
October 2014
11
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 Ŷ
Free delivery and pickup service Ŷ
Courtesy car available Ŷ
Insurance approved
Contact Gary James on 01935 823694 or 07838 589208
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
BRAND NEW NURSERY NOW OPEN!
Idyllic farmyard setting Ages 2-5 limited places available
07936555676
www.littlebootsdaynursery.co.uk
The Seavingtons’ News
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Clapper Hay Ɠ Church Street Ɠ Merriott Ɠ Somerset TA16 5PR
Tel: 01460 74612 Fax: 01460 76222 Email: [email protected] www.wicksheating.co.uk
VAT No: 785-3519-93
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 01460 261 600 07855 427 486 [email protected] www.flutterby helpers.co.uk
October 2014
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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
The Seavingtons’ News
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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
D.J.G WINDOW CLEANING & GARDENING SERVICES
Ŷ Window, Gutter, Fascia, u-PVC cleaning Ŷ Pressure Washing Ŷ Hedge & grass cutting, General gardening Ŷ Hedge laying & fencing Ŷ House, garden clearance Ŷ Logs
Fully insured: Call Dan on 01460 57877 or 07519174788
St Michael’s Church Seavington Trust Proudly present an entertaining evening for all the family
Music Quiz Friday 14 November 14 at 7:30pm
Seavington Millennium
Hall, Seavington
Teams of 6 or just come along and join in Hot Supper Included plus Licensed Bar
Tickets £8 each from N&D News, South Petherton,
Seavington Village Store, Annie Prichard (tel: 241762) or Sally Gough (tel: 240897)
Registered in England and Wales. Charity No: 1068251
October 2014
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Seavington Gardening Club
(Chris Ginger, Secretary 01460 240004 or [email protected])
Thursday 11 September 2014: ‘Putting the Garden to Bed for the Winter’ with Mike Burke from the Garden’s Group Mike managed to find a pretty exhausting number of things for us to do to prepare our gardens for winter! You can plant new plants, spray things, clean and fumigate the greenhouse, scrub and clean the decking with algae remover, clean garden furniture and store it, put grease on the trunks of your fruit trees, plant bulbs and much more. He recommended cutting back shrubs lightly only to give them a closer cut in the spring, emphasising that we must protect our plants and leave homes and shelter in our gardens for wildlife in the winter too. Flower of the Month: 1st place - Jenny Deubert - Malva 'Parkrondell' 2nd place - Mary Wyatt - Nictotiana mutabilis. 3rd place - Linda George - Yellow Rose Forthcoming Club Events: 6.30pm Thursday 9th October: Guest Night Buffet and a talk with slides: ‘On Wings and Wind – the pollination of Flowers’ with Dr Anne and John Beddington. Competition: Flower of the Month and presentation of the Irene Williams Memorial Plate. 7.30pm 13 November 2014 (not 14th as in the programme) Social Evening (Open to non-members) : ‘Cider at Barrington’ Rachael Brewer from the National Trust at Barrington is giving us a talk about making cider and apple juice at Barrington, and she will be bringing samples (!) with some for sale. 1.00pm - 11 December 2014: Christmas Lunch at Perry’s Cider Mill, Dowlish Wake. Menus to be handed out on Guest Night. Other events: Mapperton House is having a charity plant sale on 21 September 10am -4pm Wednesday 15 October James Wong and others will be at the Gardening Day at Sherborne Literary Festival. Contact me (above) if you are interested.
The Seavingtons’ News
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Autumn Activities
Becky Hughes (07901 331460 or direct line 01458 254415
As autumn creeps in, and mornings feel chilly despite the glorious sunny afternoons, its time to get out and learn more about homes for wildlife in our woodlands. Kick about some leaves, enjoy the autumn colours and discover what makes Swell Wood a great place for nature. And join in with our half term activities with the family too! Mushroom Magic! At RSPB Swell Wood Saturday 12 October, 10 am-12 pm & 2pm-4pm, £8 per adult/£4 per child. Booking essential and payment in advance. Leading fungi expert, Michael Jordan, who had a popular TV series - Mushroom Magic, will take you on a mushroom discovery tour of Swell Wood. Look out for unusual fungi, including King Alfred’s Cake, Orange Peel fungus, Tree Ear and Honey Fungus. Wear boots or trainers and dress for the weather! Tel 01458 252805 or see website link below. Wild Food Day at RSPB Swell Wood Saturday 18 October, 2pm-4 pm, £5 per person. Booking essential. Join us on a foraging walk to look out for wild ingredients to use for recipes to make. It might inspire you for what to eat for dinner! Tel 01458 252805 or see website link below. Half term events: The Big Draw - Tuesday 28 October at Avalon Marshes Centre, see Ham Wall website. Nature Skull Trail - Thursday 30 October, see Ham Wall website. Pumpkin Trail - Friday 31 October, see Swell Wood website. Love being outdoors, enjoy chatting, and know a bit about the wildlife here in Somerset, in particular Ham Wall? Ever thought about volunteering on our reserves? When winter arrives we will have a great new car park at Ham Wall. So we’ll also have lots of visitors to see the winter starling roost too. We need volunteers to help as Visitor Events Assistants, Marketing Assistants, and Visitor Information Assistants. Take a look at the adverts on our website under the volunteering section and get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you!! http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/s/swellwood/ http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/h/hamwall/
October 2014
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Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2014
Manda Jaggers (01460 240554; [email protected]) After many years, Monica Pye has decided to step down as organiser for the Seavington Poppy collection. She has worked incredibly hard and done a fantastic job in making these collections so successful. I have agreed to take over as co-ordinator and am very grateful to all our collectors. I would appreciate some more collectors, to cover Dark Lane and Water Street from below the Pheasant development, to Church Lane. There will be collection boxes in the Volunteer, Trading Post and community shop, if you miss the house to house collection. If you are able to help or wish to purchase wristbands or poppy pins, please contact me at home by telephone
Seavington Playing Field Association Registered Charity No: 268986
Advance Notice of Christmas Market
On Saturday 29th November
At Seavington Millennium Hall; 10.00 am until Midday
Tables available at £5; Set-up from 8.00 am onwards
To book a table call Annie on 01460 241762 (Answerphone)
Free Driver Awareness Courses Avon & Somerset Police are running a series of Road Smart driver awareness sessions, Taunton & Yeovilton are our nearest sites. Over 1000 people have signed up already. The statistics around road safety are scary: 95% of all collisions are caused by human error and one third of all serious crashes involve people aged 17-24 They are keen, therefore, for as many people as possible to attend a FREE 2 hour session to improve their driving awareness. The sessions are bookable for 17-24 year olds and for those aged 25 and over. To see the dates on offer and to book a place visit: www.roadsmart.org No tests and no written exercises, just a relaxed and informative workshop. Do you have a young driver in your family or perhaps you've reached an age when a refresher may be worthwhile - please take a look at the website.
The Seavingtons’ News
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A Farmer’s Diary
Farm Boy I am on the editor’s deadline again; he gave me a call this morning whilst I was cleaning the cow yards with the scraper tractor, I am back on duty, because John and Celia are away with their three youngest for a well earned weeks break. Little did I know when I agreed with our editor that I would sit down this evening and complete something for this month’s magazine, just how the rest of the day was going to plan out? Whilst I was scraping the yards the two main helpers had gone off with the Land Rover on their rounds to inspect outlying cattle. They soon discovered one freshly calved cow, and another in the process, that in their judgement was not getting on well. I had just completed my task when they arrived back with the news. So off we went with the cattle box to bring home the two cows and the newly born heifer calf. So far so good, because close by was a special built holding pen; we soon had them loaded and within fifteen minutes they were unloaded into loose boxes back at the farm. I was then invited like some elderly statesman to carry out an internal inspection of the uncomfortable cow; on doing this I had to agree with an experienced helper’s diagnosis, that the cow most likely had a twisted womb. This of course meant calling in the vet, I advised our willing apprentice Toby to get himself some breakfast whilst he had the chance, this was around 10-30 am. I know things should happen pretty quickly when you dial 999 but I had this kind of response from our vet. Poor Toby had only had time to wash his hands and make us a coffee, which we did not get the chance to drink, because the vet’s van swept into the yard, and he urgently requested a bucket of hot water, in a “lets get on with it manner.” To cut a long story short the vet and the three of us tried to sort the poor cow out. This can be a very tricky situation that involves trying to roll the cow whilst it is lying down with the vets arm inside trying to roll the womb complete with calf in the opposite direction. This was a good sized cow weighing well over half a ton and a large bull calf. It proved to be one of those more difficult
October 2014
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‘Flix in the Sticks’ Hinton St. George ‘Flix in the Sticks’ presents ‘In Secret’ (15), on Saturday, October 11th in the Village Hall at 7.30 pm. Tickets £5 in advance from the Village Shop and Dorothy’s Tea Room, or, £5.50p on the door. To reserve Tickets please contact 01460 72906. It is Paris in the 1860's and Therese Raquin, a beautiful young woman, is trapped into a loveless marriage by her domineering aunt. Spending her days behind the counter of a small shop, everything changes after she meets her husband's alluring friend, Laurent, leading to tragic consequences. Fabulous atmosphere for this period crime drama.
cases, and after about an hour the vet conceded he would need to carry out a Caesarean Section, so he rang out for another helper from his practice. Whilst this was going on, us farm hands converted the loose box into something like an operating theatre. It turned out to be the most significant operation that has taken place on the farm in 59 years! For once the poor cow had been opened up in the side. The womb and calf were still in a tangle, and the incision had to be made even longer because of the size of the calf. The two vets had their work cut out and there was plenty of sweat on their brows, but at last the large Holstein bull calf was removed, but it showed very little sign of life. It was also discovered that at some stage one of the calf’s feet had punctured the wall of the uterus, so this wound had to be stitched up first, then the side of the womb, and last of all the outer layers of skin. None of this operation was suitable for the squeamish, and I am left wondering how an animal in the wild would get along under similar circumstances. From the outside it is so very easy to think if we leave everything to nature it will take care of it all. I confess that, after a lifetime in farming and animal husbandry, I think nature can be pretty harsh at times, and for sure it will always have the last word. Our Cow has a tough fight ahead, having the Caesarean Section was one thing but the torn uterus runs a very high risk of Peritonitis setting in. When I left this evening she was looking O.K, but it is very early times, we can only hope the vet’s antibiotics will fight off any possible infections. Lets hope tomorrow will be less eventful.
The Seavingtons’ News
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THE SEAVINGTONS' CALENDAR 2015
What will it cost? £8.95 per copy, including an envelope.
Where can I buy it? At the till in The Seavingtons' Store
When can I buy it? Subject to there being no delays at the printer the calendar will be available from 1 October.
There will be a sample calendar available for you to see in the shop
and we hope you will enjoy looking at the varied and interesting photos which have all been submitted by residents of The Seavingtons. Proceeds will go towards improvements to the shop and cafe.
Demand is expected to be high so make sure you shop early!
Seavington Playing Field Association (Registered Charity No: 268986)
Welcomes once again to Seavington Millennium Hall the celebrated Ilminster-based choir
“Serenade”
For an enjoyable mixture of pop songs, show tunes, world music and folk songs that the whole family will enjoy
Saturday 1st November 7.00 pm for 7.30 pm
Please bring your own drink, tea and coffee available
Tickets (available from 15th October) - £5 from Seavington Village Store; N & D News, South Petherton and
Annie Prichard (01460 241762)
October 2014
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Neighbourhood Watch
Carolyn Farler (01460 249192) Cyber crime: Please find below details of a website that is safe and well-trusted when it comes to giving excellent advice on keeping safe on the internet and to reduce the risk of being a victim of cyber crime: getsafeonline.org The three golden rules for us all to adopt to avoid becoming victims are to choose, use and protect your passwords carefully; ensure that your antivirus/antispyware software and firewall are always kept up to date and switched on and be very careful about the amount and level of personal and financial information you reveal - and to whom. Vehicle crime: There seems to be a recent spate of breaking into vehicles in surrounding areas to us, South Petherton, Compton Durville etc. Please can I remind people to make sure their cars are locked and windows shut and that there is nothing of value in view. And although this is obvious ladies who choose to hide bags under seats should make sure straps/handles are not left showing. Cold Calling: Concern has been expressed about a cold caller in the village some weeks ago. We have no reason to assume it was anything sinister but it provides a good reason to remind people of a few tips from the authorities:
•Put the chain on the door before answering to strangers
•Be firm and say 'No Thank-you' - remember you do not have to let anyone into your home
•Do not sign anything there and then - ask for a copy of any documents to discuss with/family/friends
•Genuine salespeople will have identity cards and/or a trading licence, and will be prepared to come back when you have someone with you.
A police officer advised that if anyone receives similar callers in the future and are worried or intimidated by them, they should ring 101 and the police may be able to come out to check the validity of the person(s).
The Seavingtons’ News
22
Over the Counter
Mark Ellis (01460 241112)
With the AGM now behind us (29th Jul) we are set for another year’s trading in the community shop and café which I must report seems to be going from strength to strength. Indeed there are a couple of firsts which occurred in early August which bode well for our future. Last week was the first week in our trading history when we took over £300 every day of the week in the shop and café. To cap that, yesterday was the first day we took over £500 in a single day and on top of that it was a Monday which is traditionally our weakest day of the week for trading. These figures will be meaningless to most of you but if I was to tell you that 2 years ago we were struggling to take £185 per day (which was the break even figure needed to remain running and only just achieved). Last year we were over the moon for every day we took over £200, this will give you some idea as to the increased trading our shop is seeing and long will it continue. It is clear that installing a cook in the café has made a significant increase to our fortunes. It has given us the continuity we so dearly sought but were unable to achieve with a totally volunteer cook force. It has also alleviated some of the pressure on villagers to fill all the shifts in the café, which was proving harder and harder as time went by. That said, as a community shop we will always require volunteers to run the shop and café. Their free time which is willingly given is effectively subsidising the operation as we are able to keep our wages bill down because of it. Without this support, as a village shop we would go under like many other villages shops across the country. The population of the Seavingtons is not large enough (470 at last census for St Mary and St Michael) to sustain a village shop commercially without this subsidy. Village shops are no longer considered a viable enterprise as most of us travel into town to get our main grocery shop. As a result the Village shops no longer have sufficient turnover to pay the salaries of the staff required to run a successful shop. Having some of these tasks carried out by community spirited volunteers cuts that wage bill and allows the community shop to thrive providing a service to the village in times of need. This could be bad weather where people don’t want to travel, individual circumstances such as injury precluding travel or just plain old community service such as our Seniors’ Lunches and “Get Together” meetings in the café. Our next step is to install a manager which we have always known is needed but we just couldn’t afford it with the loans we need to pay back.
October 2014
23
OCTOBER SPECIAL OFFER IN OUR SHOP -
MOORE'S BISCUITS 20% off
Interesting flavours and daily tastings of theses delicious biscuits made by fifth generation bakers in Morecombelake,
Dorset. Please support our local suppliers.
IN OUR CAFE -
Jane continues to provide us with tasty breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas. New this month with a taste of Autumn -
Parsnip and syrup cake
SENIORS' LUNCH -
Monday 13 October. Book now to avoid disappointment!
Seavingtons' Village Store & Cafe, Water St, Seavington St Mary. 01460 249730
This too will give us the continuity we seek and will also lead to an increase in our income, if nothing else through the improved efficiency that the post will undoubtedly bring. That said, even with the increased turnover we are seeing, we still have loans outstanding and we do not believe that at the time of writing that we quite have the turnover needed to meet the wage bill of a manager. Do not despair as advertising for the Café has only this month hit the streets and we are hopeful that the increased turnover this eventually brings will at last allow us to employ a manager. At the end of the day the shop and café are a service provided by villagers for villagers. The fact that we all own it too, well so much the better. PS If you are new to the village or you just haven’t yet joined the association then please call in at the shop and become a member for the princely lifetime membership sum of £5 per person. PPS. Volunteering is not onerous and is a very fast way of getting to know your fellow villagers. Community shop contact no 01460 249730
The Seavingtons’ News
24
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 details of audition nights, youth theatre, IES Membership and more) or call 01460 62739 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?
October 2014
25
Prices:
Punctures £10.00; Tracking £12.80 Wheel Balance £ 5.00—X 2 wheels
Tyre swaps £ 2.50 per wheel
Second hand tyres £15.00—Any size, including fitting Buy 4 new or used tyres and get tracking free
Tyres @ Reyland Autos
Matthew Reyland Reyland Autos, Sunnyside Farm, Seavington, Ilminster, TA19 0QB
01460 241238; 07969 206 866; [email protected]
Ƒ Gear Boxes Ƒ Clutches Ƒ Welding & Fabrication Ƒ MOTs Ƒ Servicing Ƒ Latest Diagnostic Equipment Ƒ Tyres & Tracking
St Michael’s Church Seavington Trust
Next sale of : Books, Plants & Bric-a-Brac
Saturday 4th October 2014
at 2, Winchester Cottages (Opposite The Volunteer) New and Second-hand Books, Selection of bric-a-brac,
A great selection for children of all ages from stories to study! NB—Open 9.00 am to 2.00 pm— please come and browse
LOGS FOR SALE Seasoned Hardwood Logs
Loads or Bags 01460 241440; 07799 866102
The Seavingtons’ News
26
Beautiful & Unique Handmade Bags & Accessories
Chris’s Studio Originals / Jhasper Limited Editions / Tailor Made Service
Please visit our website or contact us directly for more
information or to discuss your own ideas or requirements
Jhasper Limited, Farlands Barn, Water Street, Seavington St Michael, ILMINSTER, Somerset, TA190QH. Tel: (01460) 240818
Website: www.jhasper.co.uk—Email: [email protected]
Marilyn Hills BA MA Core Process Psychotherapy
01460 249176 Psychotherapy can help you with :
Stress : Anxiety : Depression : Debt : Loss : Grief : Relationships: Personal growth Contact me for a FREE Introductory Session
Email : [email protected] Website: www.marilynhills.co,uk
October 2014
27
JUST THINGS a fair trade shop
33A, Silver Street, Ilminster, TA19 0DW
(opposite the Minster)
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
The Seavingtons’ News
28
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
October 2014
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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 Ɣ Additional sockets • Extensions Ɣ Listed building work • Computer/Telephone points Ɣ Whole House sound systems • Security and Access Lighting Ɣ CCTV Camera Installation • Fire Alarms; Nurse Call Systems Ɣ Control Panel design & build • Electrical accessories Ɣ Engraving of labels • Cable laying and ducting Ɣ Outside Events • Electrical Door/ Gate Systems Ɣ Intercom and Entry Systems
Mobile: 07808 049034
Pilates Classes
Experienced and qualified Teacher, Full Matwork Diploma with The Pilates Institute, NVQ level 3 in Teaching advanced exercise.
Monday 9.30 – 10.30am Seavington Village Hall (starts 28th April) £6.50 per session or £16.50 for 3 consecutive weeks.
Tuesday 10.00am – 11.00am Barrington Village Hall £6.50 per session or 27.50 for 5 consecutive weeks.
Pilates can improve balance, mobility, flexibility, strength, and back issues.
Please call Lisa Rock on 01460 242164 or email: [email protected] to enquire or request a health questionnaire.
All classes are mixed ability, so you can choose your level of exercise to suit you.
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
The Seavingtons’ News
30
St Michael’s Church, Seavington
Harvest Festival at the Church
Sunday 5th October 2012 at 11.30 am
Boys and Girls, Mums and Dads, bring your gifts and join us at St Michael’s to celebrate the Harvest
Harvest gifts go to St Barnabas Housing Association
Yeovil Supporting homeless people
A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER from 10.00am - 12pm in The Millennium Hall
Water Street, Seavington St Mary TA19 0QH
Come and be inspired -
ANGIE BLACKWELL OF COTTAGE FLOWERS, ILMINSTER WILL BE DEMONSTRATING
Tickets will be available from the Seavington Store from the
beginning of November
£8.50 to include tea/coffee
Proceeds in aid of the shop and cafe
October 2014
31
SOUTH SOMERSET RSPB LOCAL GROUP
‘Birds in Flight – A Photographic Adventure’
An illustrated talk presented by John Crabb, wildlife photographer. His photographs are the result of many hours spent wandering the
moors, lanes and coasts of Devon and Somerset.
Thursday 16th October – 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 01460 240740 www.rspb.org.uk/groups/southsomerset
Registered Charity: England & Wales No. 207076, Scotland No. SC37654
Seavington Playing Field Association Registered Charity No: 268986
Apple Harvest Supper Friday 17th October
7.00 pm for 7.30 pm At the Seavington Millennium Hall
Entertainment by Andrew Sutton & Tony Horobin (Guitar and Song)
Please bring own drink; Tea & Coffee Available
Tickets: £7; under 19 £4; Family ticket £20
Available from Seavington Village Store, N & D News South Petherton & Annie Prichard (01460 241762)
(Available from 26th September)
The Seavingtons’ News
32
The Seav ingtons ’ Weather in August 2014
This year—2014 Previous year—2013
Temperature
Average Minimum 11.40°C 12.96°C
Average Maximum 20.18°C 23.01°C
Mean 15.79°C 17.98°C
Rainfall
Monthly Total 87.6mm (3.50") 24.6mm (0.98")
Total for the year 792.7mm (31.71") 393.2mm (15.73)
A “below average temperature” month The coldest August since 1993
Autumn Leaves
Chris Ginger, September2000
As I watch autumn leaves a-swirling Blowing across the ground in columns curling
Into a corner, all in a huddle, Snagged by the damp of a hidden puddle.
Laying in drifts for feet to scuff, Or Blackbird pick over, hedgehog to snuff
Landing on lawn for gardener to rake Into piles, pick up and take
Down the garden in wheelbarrow To wire cages, deep not narrow.
Layer on layer left to lie Dark and brown now to die
Beneath the trees where they were born Fresh bright green on a soft spring morn.
To move and sigh on a light summer breeze Or rage and toss on storm blown trees
To turn late on to yellow and gold Then finally, lose their hold,
As wind and rain and hail come hurling…. I watch autumn leaves a-swirling
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