THE February 2020 - The Seavingtons
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THE February 2020
The Seaving tons’ News
First, I must apologise for the non-arrival of our waste paper collecting
skip on its booked date of January 10th. I know that many readers were
frustrated by this after saving all their paper and card over the Christmas
period.
I should, perhaps, explain that Viridor the firm who provides the monthly
skip have closed their depot in Martock and transferred our collection to
its Taunton Depot. We were alerted to this and received firm assurances
that the service would be unaffected by the changes and that the January
date was confirmed. Viridor have now re-confirmed our February dates
so let’s cross our fingers.
This month’s magazine sees two interesting articles from residents—
beekeeping and the importance of maintaining our heritage of trees as
part of our fight against climate change. May I thank those contributors
and suggest that we all have something to talk about and share with our
fellow villagers? Is it too much to hope that these articles might prompt
more of you to send in articles to keep our magazine interesting?
I see that the Somerset County Council is making a bid to take over the
district councils including our own. Without getting too political may I
suggest that we should watch this development carefully? I postulate that
moving decision making further away from our communities will not
improve the efficiency of our local administration or it’s quality. Might it
be better to revert control back nearer the customers as it was in the
days of the old Ilminster Rural District Council?
David Froome
DON’T FORGET
The Waste-paper Skip! pm Friday 14th February
until am Monday 17th February
The Latest Copy Date is the 20th February
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: news@theseavingtons.org
February 2020 1
Villag e Diary—F o rt hco ming E vents
All events, unless otherwise shown, are held in the Millennium Hall
For bookings call 07905 215993 or hallbookings@theseavingtons.org
7th February Last date for next orders under village
heating oil scheme—p 10
8th February 7.30 pm Flix in the Stix—”Downton Abbey” in
Hinton St George Village Hall—p 12
13th February 7.30 pm Gardening Club talk “Bees and Beekeeping”
by Neil Cook—p 23
20th February 7.30 pm RSPB Group talk “Birds of Prey” by Ian
McGuire—p 13
22nd February 8.30 am Just a Brisk Walk—p 10
27th February 7.00 pm Community Land Trust AGM—p 11
16th March 7.15 pm Charity Theatre event in aid of Village Shop
“Night Must Fall” by Emlyn Williams at the
Swan Theatre—pp 7,14
18th March 10.30 am Coffee Morning in aid of The Butterfly
Trust at Carter’s Barn, Water Street p 11
Regular Activities
2nd Monday noon Community Lunch in Village Café
3rd Tuesday 6.30pm Parish Council Meeting in Village Café
3rd Wednesday 10.30am “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
2 The Seavingtons’ NewsSt Michael’s Church, Seavington
2nd February 11.30 am Family Communion (CW)
Service taken by the Archdeacon of Taunton, The Ven Simon Hill
followed by coffee and biscuits in the Church
9th February 8.00 am Holy Communion (BCP)
9th February 11.30 am Café Church in Community Shop & Café
16th February 11.30 am Holy Communion (CW)
23rd February 11.30 am Service of Reflection
The Church Administrator can be contacted on 07831 982470 or
office@southpethertonchurch.org.uk
T he S ea vi ng to ns ’ W ea ther i n Dec em ber 20 19
Last year—2019 Previous year—2018
Temperature
Average Minimum 3.89°C 5.68°C
Average Maximum 9.81°C 10.60°C
Mean 6.75°C 8.14°C
Rainfall
Monthly Total 140.4 mm (5.62") 106.1 mm (4.24")
Total for the year 884.3 mm (35.37") 811.5 mm (32.46")
The wettest December since 2013 (157.2 mm) & 2000 (167.6 mm)
75 mm (3") above long term average for our area
Ad vert is ing R at es
Annual Monthly
Full Page £ 100 £ 12
½ Page £ 50 £ 6
¼ Page £ 28 £ 4
Advertising enquiries to: adverts@theseavingtons.org
February 2020 3Bob Myers 1927—2019 From Simla to Seavington – The Life of Bob (Robert Arthur) Myers Imagine being seven years old and waving goodbye to your parents, with hundreds of other small boys, from a school train that was to take you on a three-day journey across India. Bob Myers must have been terrified, but after a few hours of grieving for his parents left on the platform at Howrah station in Calcutta, he was making friends with the other boys on the train - as he went on to do wherever he went in his life. Bob Myers was a member of the last generation of the British Raj in India. His father was a railway engineer, based in Giridih at the family estate near Dhanbad in the state of Bihar, and his mother was a music teacher in Mussoorie, a hill station north of Delhi. He was born on 30th December 1927, the third of four children, and was sent off to Bishop Cotton's School in Simla in 1935, where he remained for 9 months of every year until the end of the war in 1945. The school and his life in Simla remained intensely important to him throughout his life, and it was there he developed his love of sports, particularly cricket and hockey, and his skills as a boxer. Thanks to those skills and his bright mind, he left Simla and India for Selwyn College, Cambridge. Bob read law and economics at Cambridge, and continued his sports, playing college hockey and becoming a boxing blue (welter weight). He was captain of the Cambridge University boxing team in 1949. After moving to London later in 1949 to qualify as a Chartered Accountant, ultimately with Peat Marwick (now KPMG), he trialled for the Kent County Hockey team and played county hockey for a few years. In London, Bob met Gillian Keys, and in 1956 they married in Charlton Marshall in Dorset. They lived in Kensington for four years and their first daughter, Camilla, was born in 1959. In 1960, the family moved to the little village of Turville in the Chilterns - the location for many films and television series, including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the Vicar of Dibley. There the family grew with the addition of Emma (1961), Sophie (1963), and Jonathan (1965). 4 The Seavingtons’ News
Bob loved St Mary's Church in Turville and he was treasurer of the Parochial Church Council for many years, turning around their finances. He was instrumental in enabling the restoration of the church, and the commissioning of a window by John Piper to commemorate St Saviour's church in the neighbouring parish of Turville Heath, which was closed in 1975. Bob left his safe accountancy job with Distillers in London in 1963, and set up his own consultancy, specialising in financial and taxation management for large family estates in Ireland. He also bought and managed a successful ten-pin bowling business in Hove, which continued till the mid-80s. Through all of this, Bob was enabled and wholly supported by his wife and business partner, Gilly, who not only ran the home, but his office as well: typing all his correspondence and legal memoirs between meals and long into the night. Working from home meant Bob was able to spend a great deal of time with his children and a growing menagerie of dogs, cats, horses and chickens, all of whom gravitated to his kindness and simple encouragement. Bob retired in 2002 (though Gilly did not!) and together they made their move west to the Old Rectory in Seavington. They wondered how they would get to know people and make new friends without children to bring them together, but they found everyone here so welcoming and kind, they soon settled in to a happy and busy life in Somerset. Bob was delighted to discover the Book of Common Prayer in use in St Michael's Seavington, and regularly attended services there. He was a strong supporter of community enterprises, giving generously of advice and money to both the Hinton St George and Seavington Community Shops. Bob was gregarious and always interested in people, as seen at the recent Celebration of his Life in the Millennium Hall attended by so many generations of friends and relations from the different stages of his life. Bob Myers died on 17th December 2019, leaving his beloved wife Gilly and constant companion of 63 years, his four children and sons- and daughter-in-law, and his four granddaughters, Elfrieda, Siana, Alicia and Freya, who have given him so much pleasure in the last years of his life. He will be greatly missed. Camilla Myers February 2020 5
Note from St Michael’s Churchwardens
We are writing to advise you that the Rector Tom Handy will be unavailable due
to illness until the end of February. We send Tom our very best wishes for a
speedy recovery. If you need support, assistance and guidance, please contact
your Church Wardens, Amanda Jaggers 01460 240554 or Anne Shaw 01460
249156, in the first instance. We are blessed to have retired clergy and
assistance that will be here to support our parish and services throughout this
time.
The Church Administrator will be able to pass any comments, queries or
support that is required onto the correct person. The Church Administrator can
be contacted on the parish office mobile which is 07831 982470 or email
office@southpethertonchurch.org.uk
2019 Spot the Difference Puzzle
Here are the answers to last month’s spot the difference puzzle. The
winner was Mrs Jill Doble who found 24 of the 25 difference. She has
now received her £25 voucher to be spent in our community shop.
1. The left hand house has lined tiles drawn in.
2. There is an extra telegraph wire on the left.
3. There is extra shading on the middle car’s windscreen.
4. There are extra branches on the tree behind the right hand house.
5. The windows on the right hand house have been shaded in.
6. There is extra snow on the left hand wall.
7. The front car has extra shading on its headlights.
8. It also has a different number plate.
9. It is also darker in tone.
10. There is extra added texture on the tyre tracks in the snow.
11. The distant telegraph poles have cross spars.
12. There is an extended trellis on the left.
13. There are two extra birds in the sky.
14. There is a moon in the sky.
15. There is grass peeping through the snow on the left hand side.
16. There is a bin partly buried in the snow on the left.
17. There are highlighted stones on the gable end of the right hand house.
18. There is an added fence post behind the front car.
19. There is an animal in the snow on the left, about half way back.
20. There is an extra window on the gable end of the left hand house.
21. There is one less pole in front of the second house on the right.
22. There is an extra car in the road.
23. There is added detail on the right hand house, facing the road.
24. There is extra foliage on the tree behind this house.
25. There is added snow on one of the left hand walls.
6 The Seavingtons’ NewsOver the counter
Marion Bennett (01460 249522)
First of all a reminder that our next fundraising event is -
A VISIT TO THE SWAN THEATRE, YEOVIL TO SEE
"NIGHT MUST FALL"
a psychological thriller by Emlyn Williams, first performed in 1935
DATE - 16th MARCH 2020 @ 7.45pm (Doors open at 7.15pm)
TICKETS COST £12 and are available in the shop
A limited number of places available for a coach pick-up from the
Millennium Hall—First come. First served—£5 per person
The Swan Theatre is located at 138 Park Street, Yeovil, BA20 1QT
Tickets are selling well so book early to avoid disappointment. This is a
charity performance in aid of Seavington Community Shop and Friends of
Ilminster Library (FOIL). Proceeds will be shared equally between the
two.
Valentine's Day is creeping up on us. We have a range of Valentine
cards, great value wines and a selection of savoury nibbles and delicious
chocolates. We can't do the bouquet of red roses but we do have lovely
gifts. Come and see our current art and craft displays.
Ray Thorogood is showing his "photo art" depicting a wide range of
views of Somerset and Dorset. His methodology combines photography
with digital manipulation. Pictures are available framed or just mounted.
Christine Buckler is offering a lovely selection of earthenware and
terracotta pottery for the home. Each piece is uniquely decorated and
coloured and just to be extra practical the earthenware pots are oven
proof.
We never know what weather February will throw at us but remember
we will always be open and we will offer as many of our usual services as
possible. A cold snap is the ideal excuse to pop into the cafe for hot
drinks, soups, homemade cakes and, of course, a chat with your fellow
villagers. Our village Get2Gether Group meets on the third Wednesday
of the month in the cafe and our Community Lunches are on the second
Monday of the month. See you!
February 2020 7Parish Council News – January 2020
Pauline Parsons [parishcouncil@theseavingtons.org]
Recent published report from Somerset County Council
regarding the proposal to form a Unitary Authority for
Somerset which would mean joining the County Council and all
District Councils into one body. – District and Parish Councillors are
concerned to learn that there may be NO PUBLIC CONSULTATION
on this. The fact that full County Council meetings only take place four
times a year does not fill anyone with confidence that this proposal could
work and in fact will it save the millions of pounds that County are
saying. Similar initiatives in other parts of the Country have not
delivered on the amounts to be saved.
Police Surgeries at the Shop/Cafe – Following the appointment of a
new PCSO for the area we now have a date for the first surgery that will
be held – TUESDAY 28TH JANUARY 12.30pm to 13.30pm. If you have
any concerns at all please call and speak to our new PCSO Mike Bell.
County Highways – Church Lane – Some of you may be wondering
why the road closure scheduled to happen in January for works to be
carried out to the footway did not happen. These works were pulled by
Stanska [contractors for Highways work for Somerset County Council]
on safety issues. It would seem that they felt just tarmacking over the
existing slab stones would not work. A suggestion has now been made
that the pathway is taken up completely, Church Lane is resurfaced and
just a white line marking a pathway is painted. It seems that this is being
done is many areas now. There is also a suggestion that a lower weight
limit needs to be put on the lane. Of course, when this will happen we
do not know.
Rookesmead Lane - Still awaiting for the ditch to be dug out and
hopefully the verge re-instated.
Falcon Close – Since last month’s News we have moved closer to
resolving the issue of the footway in front of Falcon Close. We do now
have a name of someone in County trying to drive this forward.
However, what we do not have is a date as to when the works will be
carried out. We will continue to pressure County to get this sorted in
hopefully the not too distant future.
8 The Seavingtons’ NewsSmall Improvement Scheme – Works now completed although we are still waiting for one of the speed limit signs to be moved Purchase of our own SID –As the complications that had been raised by County have been resolved ie they cannot stop us installing a similar device to the one used in South Petherton it was unanimously agreed that an order would be placed asap. Consequently we are hopeful that this will be up and running within the next month or so. Planning – Both the applications for outline planning, for one dwelling in West Street and the other for 8 houses in Water Street have finally been approved. Both with many conditions which will have to be met when a full planning application is made. At the time of writing there is still no further news regarding the appeal at Southernaways regarding the shed. There is also an Appeal in progress regarding the Enforcement Notice recently issued by the District for the removal of the shed. Dog Poo Bins – The Parish Council has received a request from the SPFA for an extra bin on the playing field. However, some time ago, when a similar request was made to the District Council, we were informed that no extra bins would be emptied by the District Council and it was not a job that the Parish Councillors wished to undertake. At that time we were reminded that dog poo can be disposed of in any bin as long as it is double-lined. This means it can be put in dog poo bins, litter bins, and even your own wheelie/dust bin as long as that bin has a removable [probably black plastic] liner. Village Car Park [opposite the Volunteer Inn] – Discussions have taken place with regard to some formal conditions being put on parking in this area. When the wording is finally agreed residents will be informed. We are in communication with the Police trying to get a vehicle removed from the car park that has been there since early November. It would seem that no-one in the immediate area knows who this car belongs to. VE Day Celebrations – 8th to 10th May 2020 – being organised nationally by SSAFA [The armed Forces charity] The Parish Council has not received any additional information with regards to planned events for the weekend other than that listed below. February 2020 9
May 8th – 10th Flower Festival in St Michael’s Church with refreshments
being served in the Garden area.
Friday 8th May – 3.00pm in the Garden Area the Parish Council will invite
residents to Toast to the Heroes of WW2.
Friday 8th May – 7.00pm – the bells of St Mary’s Church will be rung.
SSAFA has suggested that no parties or celebrations should happen until
after the bells have rung.
We do know that the Community Shop are considering plans for an
event but have not yet met to formulate the ideas.
PLEASE, IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING AN EVENT CAN YOU LET THE
PARISH COUNCIL KNOW so that a programme of all of the Events to
be carried out over the weekend can be published [at the latest in the
April Newsletter]. As stated last months the Parish Council will ring
fence funds to support events.
Just a Brisk Walk
Matthew Towill (towill916@btinternet.com)
The February 2020 ‘Just a Brisk Walk’ will take place on Saturday 22nd
meeting at the Seavington Village Hall car park at 8.30am. The walk
around village footpaths will last about an hour returning to the village
cafe for coffee and further conversation! Everyone welcome.
Seavington Villages Oil Run
Nigel Key (01460 241540; oil@theseavingtons.org)
The next order will be paced on Friday 7th February, so please get in
touch if you would like to be included. The delivery will be during the
following week.
The following order will be placed on Friday 3rd April.
10 The Seavingtons’ NewsJoy Madge and
the Inner Wheel Club of Taunton
(International Committee)
INVITE YOU TO A COFFEE MORNING
On Wednesday, 18TH March 2020
from 10.30am to 12noon
At Carters Barn, Seavington St Mary,
Ilminster. TA19 0QR
Proceeds In aid of The Butterfly Tree
A UK based (non governmental charity) helping orphans
in Zambia
www.thebutterfly tree.org.uk Charity No. 1118084
SEAVINGTON COMMUNITY LAND TRUST
AGM - Thursday 27th February [For shareholders only]
7.00pm in the Millennium Hall
If you are a shareholder you will receive formal documents by 6th
February 2020. If you have given permission for an e-mail address
to be used the papers will be sent electronically. If not you will
receive printed copies.
One of the resolutions the AGM is to decide what mechanism is to
be used to decide on what village projects are funded by surplus
rental income and which ones aren’t. To this end we are looking for
3 members to help with this.
If you are not already a shareholder, and wish to become one before
the AGM, forms can be collected from the Community Shop. We
will not be able to enrol anyone on the evening of the AGM..
February 2020 11Flix in the Stix
Andrew Overhill (01460 72563)
Hinton St. George ‘Flix in the Stix’ presents ‘Downton
Abbey' (PG), on SATURDAY 8th February 2020 in the Hinton
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. DOORS
OPEN 7.00 pm. To reserve Tickets please contact Bob Kefford on
01460 72563.
The beloved Crawleys and their intrepid staff prepare for the most
important moment of their lives: a royal visit which soon unleashes
scandal, romance and intrigue.
This movie has all the familiar cast and a regicidal plot to be solved but
the best part of the film is arguably the splendour of Highclere Castle
(Downton Abbey) itself which shines throughout the film. Written by
Julian Fellowes as usual, the period (1929), the couture and the
atmosphere are captured aa well as you would expect and the ensemble
cast are on top form.
SEAVINGTON SHOP AND CAFE
GOT THAT FEBRUARY FEELING?
Start the day with a full English breakfast.
For lunch try our delicious homemade soups, jackets, paninis,
freshly made sandwiches, plus daily specials.
COMMUNITY LUNCH Monday 10th February. To book ring Jane - number below
REMEMBER TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THE SWAN THEATRE TRIP
on March 16th to see "Night Must Fall" by Emlyn Williams. See separate advert
TREAT YOUR VALENTINE! OR YOURSELF!
See our selection of Valentine cards. chocolates and wines
We also have the perfect gift -
This month's art display is by Ray Thorogood
See your favourite Somerset and Dorset views uniquely captured by
Ray's photo art. Available mounted and framed.
The craft display is by Christine Buckler
A beautiful selection of earthenware and terracotta pottery for home
Seavington Village Shop & Cafe, Water St, Seavington TA19 0QH. 01460 249730
Opening hours: Shop Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5.00pm, Sat 9.00am - 3.00pm
Cafe Mon-Fri 8.30am - 4.00pm, Sat 9.00am - 2.00pm
12 The Seavingtons’ NewsSouth Somerset RSPB Group
‘Birds of Prey’
This new illustrated talk by Ian McGuire is a wonderful opportunity to
discover the wide range of raptors that live, breed or visit the UK. From
goshawks, hen harriers, opsreys and kestrels to golden eagles, this talk
looks at how each species has evolved. Ian will also look at the serious
conservation issues that face many of these beautiful birds.
Thursday 20th February - 7.30pm The Millennium Hall, Seavington St Mary
Entry: Group members £3, non-group members £4, 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
The Warehouse Theatre
The Warehouse Theatre in Ilminster is one of the best equipped
and run small amateur theatres in the country, offering high
quality entertainment throughout the year to audiences of all
ages. We also run a thriving Youth theatre and act as a venue for
local groups and clubs to hire. For details seen www.thewarehousetheatre.org.uk
or call 07943 779880. Tickets can be purchased on line via the website or from
Harrimans Menswear in Silver street Ilminster.
Upcoming Events:
February 26th—29th
Three one act plays directed by new directors Lucy Driver, Sally
Carrington and Valda Dagnall:
Dark Stairway based on the Bethnal Green wartime disaster.
The Railway Siding, a mystery to keep you guessing to the end
Tome Clusters a gripping crime drama
February 2020 13BOOK EARLY TO AVOID
DISAPPOINTMENT
MONDAY MARCH 16th 2020 @ 7.45pm
Visit to the Swan Theatre, Yeovil to see
"Night must fall"
a thriller by Emlyn Williams
Tickets available in the Shop
Or from Marion Bennett—01460 249522
A limited number of seats will be available for a coach pick
up at the Millennium Hall - first come, first served!
Proceeds in aid of the Shop and Cafe
Seavington Flower Show 2020
Photography Subjects
Here are the titles for the photography sections for the Flower Show
2020, so you have plenty of time to get organised!
The class for the under 16 age group is:
· "Close Up"
In addition, there are two further classes open to all ages which are:
· "Botanical Britain"
· "Hidden Somerset"
We look forward to seeing your photographs at the Flower Show later
this year.
14 The Seavingtons’ NewsAll 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
01460 240099 or 07980 674480
info@dcesystems.co.uk
www.dcesystems.co.uk
TRADITIONAL Introducing your “all year round”
ACUPUNCTURE Garden Maintenance Programme
& CHINESE MEDICINE
AYR GARDENING SERVICES
Acupuncture is a safe, gentle and Andrew Hall will bring over 30
effective treatment for conditions years experience to your garden
such as back pain, sciatica,
insomnia, low energy, migraines, Pruning
gynaecology & fertility issues, Clipping
sports injuries etc. Vegetable Gardens
Planning and Planting
Why not give me a call to see Lawn Care
if I can help?
All Year Round Garden Maintenance
Kerry Wratten BSc (Hons) LicAc MBAcC
to suit all household budgets!
Tel: 07712 481231
Why not give me a call for a free
www.kerrywratten-acupuncture.com (no obligation) consultation
Clinics at: Ilminster, Somerset
Seaton & Hemyock, Devon Tel: 01460 241374
Mob: 07824 996930
February 2020 15St Margaret’s Support Groups
Taunton and Yeovil
St Margaret’s Support Groups are open to anyone affected by a life-limiting
illness – patients, their families and friends. As well as providing an opportunity
to meet others in similar situations, our trained volunteers can offer visitors:
a listening ear ◊ provide free information ◊ help signpost to other services
The groups are run on a drop-in basis – there is no need to book or to be referred
Or perhaps you would like to become a volunteer to help run these groups?
St Margaret’s Hospice, Taunton TA1 5HA Thursdays 2pm-4pm
Octagon Theatre, Yeovil BA20 1UX 10.30am – 12.30
For further information please contact Lesley Burgess
E-mail: lesley.burgess@st-margarets-hospice.org.uk; Tel: 0845 070 8910
Mobile: 07808 049034
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
16 The Seavingtons’ NewsBeekeeping Preparation for Winter
Ken Dewsbury (01460 241155)
This article is the first of a short series by a very experienced local
beekeeper which draws attention to various aspects of beekeeping which
should interest apiarists and others a�racted by these fascina�ng insects.
The incidence of colony mortality is far greater in the winter than at any
other time. This is generally due to the bees being confined to their hive
for long periods, and any problem, such as disease, queen failure or
depletion of stores, cannot be easily rectified. The beekeeper is unable to
detect any winter problems within the hive, for the weather is usually too
bad to risk opening up and disturbing the winter cluster. Careful
preparation for winter is therefore vital to both bees and beekeeper. The
three potential problems already mentioned are worthy of closer scrutiny,
as preparations should be made in September.
If the colony has been disease free through the summer, then there
should be little to worry about as they go into winter. Nosema and
Dysentry are winter killers, which can be avoided by taking the necessary
steps.
Strange though it may seem, the bees’ own honey is not always the best
food to see them through the winter. Some honeys, such as heather and
honeydew, are high in fibre, and if this is the only food available, it results
in the bees need to defecate more frequently. If the winter weather
prevents cleansing flights, then dysentery occurs on the combs, and will
spread quickly through the colony. It is therefore beneficial for the bees to
be fed at least some sugar syrup, in order to ensure that their winter
stores will not harm them.
Starvation is one of the principal reasons for bees failing to make it
through the winter. They are unlikely to succumb in the depths of winter,
when the colony is tightly clustered and little stores are being used, but in
March, when the brood nest is rapidly expanding, with the resulting strain
on already depleting stores, starvation is a real possibility. Prior to the
winter preparation the amount of stores already in the hives should be
determined, and then supplemented with the correct amount of sugar
syrup. Usually 3 gallons of heavy syrup which would be 2lbs sugar to 1pt
of water. Dampness within the hives can be a problem, although the bees
will seal any spaces or gaps with a hard setting glue type resin known as
propolis. Personally, my hives are called WBC’s which are better insulated
with an additional outer wall.
February 2020 17Shepton Beauchamp Pre-School News
Natalie Nolan (natalie-nolan@hotmail.com)
We have had a great start to the year at Pre-school, focussing on the
weather, which was somewhat changeable throughout January, giving us
plenty to talk about. It was pretty mild at times, making it easier for
getting the children outside! Rather wet, but puddles are always fun!
This month at Pre-school with the inspiration of Valentine’s and Pancake
days, we are focussing on cooking! The children have been very excited
to create some sweet treats! However, we are of course teaching them
about healthy eating. The children enjoy discussing different foods, their
likes and dislikes, and they can bring in foods beginning with the letter of
the week (eg S for Swede T for Tangerine)
Children’s school packed lunches has been a topic in the news/media
recently, in particular that many children do not have enough healthy
food in their lunch boxes. We always encourage parents to pack a
balanced diet, and discourage them from bringing in packaged sugary
snacks such as biscuits and cake. It is important to start this at Pre-school
otherwise it can be very difficult to change eating habits when they get
older.
The colour of the month is Purple!
Dates for the Diary
Toddler Group is on 6th Feb and 5th March (usually first Thursdays of
the month) Babies - Pre school age welcome. It is a friendly and relaxed
group with coffee for parents/grandparents or whoever is accompanying
the little one. Come anytime between 09:00 - 11:15am.
Pre-School is closed for half term - week commencing 17th Feb
For more information please call Sarah or Kath 07765437301 or email
info@Sheptonbeauchamppre-school.co.uk or visit www.sheptonbeauchamppre-
school.co.uk or follow us on Facebook - or just pop in and meet us - we'd love
to see you!
We are looking into expanding our offered hours, to include a Thursday and
the option of starting earlier by attending the school morning club, please
enquire if interested.
18 The Seavingtons’ NewsShepton Beauchamp Primary School News
Charlie Pattisson (01460 241396)
It’s that time of year again – time for Egg Shackling with Father Geoff.
This has a long tradition in the village, for those of you who are unaware
of what it is … each child brings an egg to school; the eggs are all put into
a large bowl (unbroken) then the bowl is shaken gently and the last
unbroken egg is the winner – simple and fun!
The class topics for this term are well under way with Seymour Class
learning about Earth and Space. The children will be learning about how
the moon changes during the month, different time zones and how far
planets are from each other and hopefully at the end of the topic there
will be a trip to We the Curious Planetarium in Bristol.
Coles Class have the exciting topic of Once Upon a Time and will be
using the story of Jack and the Beanstalk throughout all subjects –
measuring beanstalks, going on a giant hunt at Cowleaze, designing a
house for Jack and using iPads to find images of beans and discover other
fairy tales. Coles Class will be going out on welly walks every Friday
afternoon – do say hello if you see them!
Inspired by the book ‘Street Child’ the children asked to raise money for
Barnardos by wearing green clothes and choosing to sleep in a box at
lunch time. They raised £72 and later in the term raised £100 for
Children in Need.
We are planning a Dig for Victory Garden for VE Day in our learning
garden and perhaps building an Anderson Shelter. If anyone has any ideas
and suggestions to help with this we would love to hear from you.
FOSS (Friends of Shepton School). This term we have a mufti day and cake
sale planned and a disco at the end of term as well as a Bingo night at the
Duke of York. The Learning Garden is ready for planting when the
weather warms up and we have plans for a Dig for Victory Garden to tie
in with VE Day in May. If anyone has any spare children’s wellies, we
would love to have them especially size 1-4 for the older children. Thank
you.
F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t io n p le a s e c a l l 0 1 4 6 0 2 4 0 7 9 3 ,
office@sheptonbeauchamp.somerset.sch.uk or follow us on Twitter
@SBPrimarySchool WEB www.sheptonbeauchamp.somerset.sch.uk
February 2020 19Trees in 2020
Jo Mills, Seavington St Mary
It seems to be an age ago that, as village Tree Wardens, Ry Coffman and I
wrote a series of short pieces for the Seavington’s News about the small
steps that could be taken to become more environmentally-friendly or ‘eco’ as
it is now known. Now, as Australia burns and Indonesia floods, seems to be
the right time to re-look at what was our passion then and now; namely trees.
In our post-Blue Planet/Attenborough Enlightenment where many have
pledged to reduce their use of plastic everythings, and many others have set
about planting trees in order to absorb the carbon we humans continue to
pump into the atmosphere it seems extraordinary that our local environment
has recently lost so many trees. The row of poplars on the way to Kingstone
and the large evergreens that continued that hedge are a massive and shocking
loss altering the landscape hugely and releasing carbon in no small measure. I
know that some of those trees were rotten and required felling as evidence by
a few that had gone before. But I am shocked that the whole lot were felled at
once, at a time when we need trees more than ever. Other trees have gone: a
thorn in Seavington St Mary felled and the electricity board seem to have done
their worst with a false Acacia in Seavington St Michael. Hopefully that one
will survive. I understand the thorn had rotten heart wood.
A large ash was felled not so long back because it was hollow. Now I would
welcome any feedback on this, but I had understood that the strength in a
tree was in its outer, growing layers – those closest to the bark where the
xylem and phloem flow – not in the heart wood – I seem to recall being told
that very old trees can last a lot longer once the heart has rotted out as the
tree can flex more in the wind – think of those photos of veteran trees that
Victorian folk hid in for photographs – they usually seem to be doing very well
– and that famous image of the giant redwood with a road running through
it….. but I digress! The felled ash had been the home to owls. I wonder if they
have manged to rehouse themselves.
So, trees …… I did a calculation last year after one of those reports saying
how many thousands of trees need to be planted for the UK to achieve
carbon neutrality. It came to 46 trees each. A tough ask to do that. Ry and I
struggled to find places to plant trees and sadly oversaw the felling of horse
chestnuts on the playing field that had succumbed to disease. Mature trees are
much better at absorbing carbon and producing lovely oxygen that little ones!
But we planted as many as we could at the time, and re-planted a mix of trees
on the playing field to try and dodge a total wipe out by disease in the future.
It could be that many of us could squeeze a tree into our gardens – perhaps a
lovely ornamental tree, or even a fruit or nut tree which would give local food
as a bonus. Even small gardens can hold an espaliered apple or pear – not so
20 The Seavingtons’ Newshard to keep in shape with a good pair of secateurs and a YouTube video to
show you how. That, however, is a long way off 46 trees each. But help is at
hand! Many of us struggle to find the perfect birthday or anniversary gift
especially as so many households reach ‘peak stuff’ and not many of us really
needs another gizmo, or pair of socks or bar of soap! Luckily the Woodland
Trust (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk) can handle this and will accept
donations and even dedicate trees – I gave two trees as birthday presents last
year and the recipients can’t wait for the good weather to go to visit their
special wood. Even closer to home Langport Transition town group are
aiming to plant 2020 trees in 2020 – and are trying to raise £2020 to do this
(http://transitionlangport.org.uk/). Another local venture has seen trees
planted at Joywights on
Ruskway Lane near Barrington
where willing volunteers have
been planting trees every
weekend in December and
January. And, as the deadline
approaches for submissions to
the Seavingtons News (Jan
11th), the National Trust has
announced an initiative to plant
20,000,000 trees over the next
10 years to mark its 125th
anniversary. They might need a
bit of help!
But, finally a sad sight – wildlife
groups have for some time now
pointed out that standard trees
in hedgerows are very good for
wildlife. Birds, insects and small
mammals all benefit, and several
have been allowed to grow on
in hedges in our local area
over the past couple of decades
– sadly the mechanical hedge photo: One of three damaged 15 year
cutters don’t always spot a tree old ash trees in Dark Lane 2020 –bent
in the way. I think the photo trunk showing that this poor tree had
below illustrates how it isn’t
been hit by the flail before!
always enough to plant a tree –
trees needs caring for too.
Somerset has one of the lowest tree cover rates in the entire country so
anything we can do will make a difference, no matter how small the tree or
the project. So if you are short of a New Year resolution, a gift idea ,or you
simply want to make a difference please consider planting a tree ….. or two ..
.. or three!
February 2020 21Seavington Gardening Club
Kate Mulligan (01460 242023)
Thursday 9th January 2020
Claire Greenslade came across as someone who is very happy in her
work. Mind you, as Head Gardener at Hestercombe she probably has
good reason to be. Her enthusiasm, knowledge and sense of humour
provided us with a wonderful insight into the shaping of an historic
garden. Initially she obtained a degree in fashion and textiles but then
began training as a gardener at places like Barrington Court and now
she has a regular team of six working at Hestercombe along with an
army of volunteers.
The house and gardens have a long history covering at least three
centuries and recent discoveries of what are thought to be the
remains of an Elizabethan water garden could extend this to four
centuries. The gardens had been neglected over the years and were in
a shocking state but gradually they are being brought back to life.
The Fire Brigade leased the house and grounds and put in an
application to tarmac over some of the landscaped garden to use as a
training area. Fortunately for us they were refused permission but only
lost out by one vote and so the formal gardens were saved.
Hestercombe Gardens Trust now owns the land and surrounding
farmland but have an ongoing huge task restoring and re-modelling.
Original plans for some of the garden buildings were found but often it
had to be guess work mixed in with some historical knowledge. The
Witches Hut had a lucky revival as it was photographed in 1927 for
Country Life Magazine which is just as well because there was virtually
nothing left of it by the time restoration began.
Two of the most famous names in garden design and planting have
strong associations with Hestercombe. Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude
Jekyll were responsible for how the formal gardens look today. Jekyll's
original designs were found by a gardener in the potting shed in the
1970’s so they were able to copy and use them but she never visited
22 The Seavingtons’ NewsHestercombe or did any of the planting herself. This was also the only garden that Lutyens designed that did not include the house which may not have pleased him. Having all the detailed information can be a great help for restoration but it can also raise problems. Sourcing some of the plants was difficult or even impossible, so decisions had to be made as to how far to stick to the originals or how much can you interpret them for modern times? Trying to get the balance right is probably the hardest job of all. Plans continue for the house too and whilst it holds the restaurant and contemporary art gallery at present ,there are plenty of ideas to take it further. So all I can say is keep watching out - Hestercombe is definitely moving on and well worth a visit. Our thanks to Claire for such an entertaining and knowledgeable talk. Flower of the Month Competition: 1st Liz Hayden - clematis Winter Beauty 2nd Anne Clifford - daphne Jacqueline Postill 3rd Jenny Deubert - hellebore Harvington Double Forthcoming Events: Thursday 13th February at 7.30pm in the Millennium Hall a talk on Bees and Beekeeping by Neil Cook. Doors open 7.00pm - refreshments will be served before and after the talk. Visitors welcome - £2 payable at the door and annual subscriptions £8 are now due if you haven’t already paid. Flower of the Month Competition continues so please bring along a single stem of the flower of your choice. For further information please contact Karen Day - tel. 01460 249728 February 2020 23
SPFA Lottery
Jackie Priddle ( 07706 092578)
The winners in the January and February draws are:
Place Prize January February
1st £50 Shirley Farrington Lynne McMurdle
2nd £30 Chris Rowsell Aubrey Peckham
3rd £20 Alan Newberry-Street Joy Madge
4th £10 Ms T Smith Sonia Brooks
5th £10 Angie/Colin Robertson Ben Partridge
A Reminder:
County Council Complaint ‘phone Number
The Somerset County Council has a single telephone number
through which you may report problems such as potholes,
drainage issues etc: 0300 123 2224
24 The Seavingtons’ NewsOpen 7 days a week
Lunch & Evenings
18th Century Inn
Good Local Produce
Bed & Breakfast
Cask Marque Ales
Telephone Large Beer Garden
01460 52413 Take Away Service
Website Sunday Roasts
newinn-ilminster.com Steak Nights
Quiz Nights
Facebook Free Wi-fi
@newinnilminster Large Car Park
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Install Data points for hardwire connec�ons to computers or
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We are a new start-up business based in Ilminster with many years
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If you are looking for a new system or an upgrade to your current
systems then please contact us to arrange a free quote
Tel: 07598 794115
info@wifi-networks.uk www.wifi-networks.uk
February 2020 25Oven Cleaning
Ilminster’s independent, environmentally
friendly, oven cleaning service
No fumes, no fuss, just a super shiny
oven that looks as good as new
£50 for a single oven, £60 for a double
Hobs and extractors from £10
See: ovenspa.com for more details
or call Mick George on:
07843 99 88 96
26 The Seavingtons’ NewsFebruary 2020 27
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
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. nigelpugson@tiscali.co.uk
01460
200 000
For Home & Business
Friendly, professional advice in plain English 10 West Street
www.monkeypuzzlecomputers.com Ilminster
28 The Seavingtons’ NewsShepton Beauchamp Pre-school
“A fabulous environment for your child to make friends, learn and have fun”
Open Mon, Tues, Weds
We offer 15 hour and new
and Fri 9-3pm
30 hour funded places
“Welly walk Wednesday!”
Outdoor play in our lovely Baby & toddler group
enclosed garden 1st Thurs of the month
Contact Sarah or Kath for more information 07765 437301
info@sheptonbeauchamppre-school.co.uk
NEWCHESTER FARMHOUSE B&B
Broadway, Merriott TA16 5QH
Moved from the Beeches, Seavington, the new B&B is now open
3 en-suite rooms, comfy beds, full breakfasts, cake on arrival
www.southsomersetbandb.co.uk
contact Abby t: 01460 73917 m: 07779 606620
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
February 2020 29PIANO LESSONS
ALL AGES, ABILITIES, GRADES AND THEORY
ALWAYS WANTED TO PLAY?
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Mobile: 07979 104906 Home: 01460 249795
Dennis Evans Building Services
Property Refurbishment Services
Painting & Decoration ◊ Wallpaper Hanging ◊ Wall & Floor Tiling
Plumbing ◊ Bathroom & Kitchen Installations ◊ Plastering
Fully Insured. Estimates and advice without obligation
01460 76139 or 07831 765262
www.evansbuild.co.uk
J JASON
WHITEHEAD
Decorator ◊ Interior Painting
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Mobile:
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E-mail:
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Seavington St Michael, Ilminster
30 The Seavingtons’ NewsCurtain making, dressmaking &
alterations
‘phone Jennifer, South
Petherton
01460 242766
Dog Grooming by Helen
Friendly Home Environment
Will Collect and Deliver
Available Weekdays, Evenings and Weekends
Please ‘phone Helen
Mobile: 07867 988109 or 01460 241053
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
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
February 2020 31David Gudgeon
Plumbing & Hea�ng Services
◊ Oil Installa�ons, Servicing, Repairs & Breakdowns
◊ Bathroom Installa�ons
◊ All aspects of Plumbing & Hea�ng Maintenance
Mobile: 07731929716
Email: David.Gudgeon@outlook.com
T he S eavingt o ns’ N ews T eam
Editorial: David Froome & Maria Potts
Advertising: Tony Beresford
Production: Brian & Elaine Edwards
Technical & web-site support: Eugene Mulligan
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.
Editorial address: Middlefield Barn, Church Lane, Seavington St Mary,
Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 0QP; news@theseavingtons.org
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