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50p Evercreech News The Parish Magazine covering St Peter Evercreech, St Mary Chesterblade, St Mary & St John Lamyatt & St James Milton Clevedon, four of the six churches in the Alham Vale Benefice April 2020

Transcript of Ethan Frome · 2020-03-26 · Marchbank Jewellery Design Ltd Commissions ~ Repairs ~ Retail 6 Cheap...

Page 1: Ethan Frome · 2020-03-26 · Marchbank Jewellery Design Ltd Commissions ~ Repairs ~ Retail 6 Cheap Street, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BN Tel 01373 455332 Fair Trade Goldsmith & Silversmith

50p

Evercreech News The Parish Magazine covering

St Peter Evercreech, St Mary Chesterblade,

St Mary & St John Lamyatt & St James Milton Clevedon, four of the six churches in the

Alham Vale Benefice

April 2020

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St Peter Evercreech, St Mary Chesterblade, St Mary & St John Lamyatt & St James Milton Clevedon, four of the six churches in the

Alham Vale Benefice Which is in the Bruton Cary Deanery: https://www.brutonandcarydeanery.net

Who’s Who

VICAR: Revd Helen Drever Tel: 01749 831053 Mobile: 07949 181745

Email: [email protected]

READERS: Anne Sear Tel: 01749 838843 Rob Sage Tel: 01749 850934

Sue Deyes Tel: 01749 831104

CHURCHWARDENS: Evercreech: Geoff Hamlet 01749 830924

Eric Deyes 01749 831104 Milton Clevedon: George Sealey 01749 830286

Ian Broad 01749 838979

Lamyatt: Freda Gibbons 01749 813477 Ann Skinner 01749 813102

Chesterblade Chapel Warden: Sue Carden 07970 413382

LAY WORSHIP ASSISTANTS: Michèle Hole 01749 830875 Jen Richards 01749 812369

LAY PASTORAL ASSISTANT: Margaret Elliott 01749 830209

BENEFICE SAFEGUARDING OFFICER: Liz Henderson 01749 830887

A Prayer For our Benefice

Loving God, as we travel together

we seek inspiration from the River Alham which named us.

We pray that the life-giving water of your Word

will flow in our hearts and minds, that gently but firmly we will be carried along in its current together,

that as the river winds and meanders,

we too can change course to overcome the difficulties we face, and as the river flows onwards beyond our borders,

we pray that your blessings will reach out through us

into the communities we serve and beyond. Amen

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From the Vicarage

As I sit down to write this column, I am aware of the

sensation of sifting sands beneath my feet. The familiar

rhythm of church life at Easter this year seems a little off-beat, and I wonder if this irregularity might bring with it

the possibility of seeing the Easter story with fresh eyes.

During Lent many of us have found ourselves giving up

far more than we planned to, holidays have been cancelled

and visits to loved ones postponed. It has been an anxious time for many, with health

concerns both for ourselves, and for vulnerable friends and family members foremost in our minds.

Even if we cannot gather together for Easter as we might like, the Easter celebration

will still happen, and we will still proclaim the Risen Lord, and remember the hope

and joy we have in him.

This April may deliver a quieter, more prayerful Easter than last year, and we may

celebrate it closer to home than we had planned. Time does seem to have slowed

down a little, I know I am rushing about far less than is my usual habit. It seems

like circumstances are asking us to pause a moment, to reflect on the questionable wisdom of the hectic pace of so much of recent modern life, and instead to just stand

still a while, and be truly present.

The Bible tells us that all things came into being through Christ, who is the Word

of God and our Risen Lord. Our Saviour comes to redeem everything he has made,

not just our flawed human nature, and Christ longs for us to join him in his mission, which is to safeguard the integrity of all creation, and sustain and renew the life of

the earth.

We live in a beautiful part of the world, let us take time to love it as Christ does,

prayerfully, watchfully. This Easter take time to observe the wonder of new life

unfurling all around us. Fresh green growth where once there was decay, paper dry

bulbs bursting into flower. Listen out for the call of cuckoo and nightingale, celebrate every new molehill, and praise God if you are blessed with a sighting of

fox cubs or hares. He is risen and has come to bring new life for all.

It has been a tough few months, but I am put in mind of the words of John MacLeod

Campbell Crum’s wonderful Easter hymn…

When our hearts are weary, grieving, Lord, in pain,

By your touch you call us back to life again, fields of our hearts that dead and bare have been:

love is come again, like wheat that springeth green.

Revd. Helen Drever

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PEOPLE NEWS

If you have people news, we would like to hear from you.

Please contact Carol on 01749 347823 or email to [email protected].

Baptism

Elsie Marie Payne was baptised at St Peter’s Evercreech on Sunday 15th March 2020.

Deaths

Sheila Noad died on 7th February 2020 aged 88 years. Her funeral

was held at St Benedict’s, Stratton on the Fosse on 28th February, followed by interment at Perrymead Catholic Cemetery, Bath.

St Peter’s Church Choir

I would like to convey my heartfelt thanks to the choir for the great kindness and

generosity of spirit shown after the concert on 21st February. The lovely collective comments on a splendidly produced card along with more than generous gifts was

an overwhelmingly touching experience for Hilary and me.

I have been hugely proud of the St Peter’s Choir and will miss my long association

with this musical family in my retirement.

Meredith.

in St Peter’s Church

Unfortunately during the current Covid 19 crisis we have had to cancel the Coffee

Mornings held in St Peter’s Church. When things return to normal we will consider

holding Coffee Mornings every 2 weeks so that those Coffee Mornings that we have

had to cancel can still be run.

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Catholic News St Michael’s Catholic Church, (Diocese of Clifton)

Park Road, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5BP

Email: [email protected] Website: www.stmichaelsshepton.co.uk

Sunday Mass: 9.00 am at St Michael’s

Parish Priests: Fr. Bede and Fr. Anselm,

St Mary's Presbytery, Magdalene St, Glastonbury, BA6 9EJ Tel: 01458 832203 (Parish Priests) or 01458 835931 (Admin Office)

On Wednesday 4th March we held the first of, what was to have been two, Lent

Lunches in our Parish Room. It was attended by several of our friends from other Shepton Mallet churches and we gratefully acknowledge their support. The second

Lent Lunch on March 18th was, sadly, cancelled.

This year half the proceeds from the lunch will go to Christians Together in Shepton

Mallet, the other half to St Peter’s Lifeline, a grassroots charity we support in Kenya. We were very pleased to welcome David Baldwin from St Mary’s,

Glastonbury who founded the charity. He came with displays and gave us a very

informative talk about all that they are achieving. Starting from the founding of a small school in a harsh, remote area of NE Kenya, they now work to empower

women to say NO to FGM, to lift families out of poverty through micro finance, to

feed children at local primary schools, care for the disabled and provide for women’s health. The charity charges nothing for running costs and aims for full

sustainability. More information can be found at www.stpeterslifeline.org.uk.

Jacky Tucker

Time to show our care for all

As we reflect on the Easter story this month I’m reminded of the sense of ‘touch’. It was Passover, a

religious festival, and as Jesus was laid in the tomb, Sabbath was upon them. So the

usual burial rites were not attended to by the women who were closest to Jesus. It

would have been improper to touch the dead body. Hence their early arrival on that resurrection morning.

In the following days, in attempts to dispel disbelief, Jesus’ followers had

opportunity to not only talk with him, eat with him, but also touch him as he came

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among them. Thomas’s doubt was dispelled as he was invited to place his hand in the wounds of Christ.

As I write this we are wondering what Covid 19 might have in store for us in the

UK. We hear now that Italy has taken drastic action in hoping to contain the virus. I don’t know what further precautions we in the UK may have taken by the time

you read this.

Currently we are all taking greater care with our personal hygiene in washing hands

and ensuring we use and bin tissues. Today, along with the rest of the Church of England, we in Bath and Wells, have recommended that we only receive bread or

wafers at Holy Communion and refrain from touching, through blessing, sharing

the Peace or prayer through laying on of hands.

There will be various responses to the concerns raised by the Government and the

media. Some may feel anxiety or fear about the nature of the virus whilst others

may wonder if the emergency planning appears over-reactive. Our response as a Church must be that we do what we can to ensure we stay safe by taking all

precautions recommended. And that we do all we can to reassure people who may

feel vulnerable and worried by staying calm and showing compassion and care for

all.

But how do we express such care? I’ve realised that touch plays quite an important

part in showing we care for someone. When I was training as a nurse for a brief

period many years ago, I recall being shown some research on touch. It was an eye-opener! Even the briefest of touches can cause people to feel better, cared for and

happier.

But the presence of Coronavirus means that we are having to withdraw touch to prevent the possibility of infection. So how might we try to replace touch with other

signals of our care and value? What might that look like?

As folk may find themselves ‘self-isolating’ due to potential symptoms of the virus

we have the opportunity to find new ways to show our care. Phone calls and cards, food deliveries, creative use of social media and streaming of worship services may

all be ways to stay in touch and help people to know they are not alone. Rather than

finding ourselves paralysed by the situation let us discover how we can create new opportunities to strengthen our relationships and communities.

May our actions be the reassuring, life-affirming ‘touch’ of the risen Christ this

Easter!

Easter blessings

The Right Revd Ruth Worsley

Bishop of Taunton

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News from Kamuchanga

There have been changes afoot in Evercreech’s link parish, St Joseph’s, Kamuchanga, a township just outside Mufulira in Zambia’s Copperbelt.

Their parish priest, George Njovu, has been transferred to St Mary’s, Mufulira, and

Richard Mwansa has returned to take over as parish priest at St Joseph’s. No long

vacancies in Zambia, the new priest arrives almost immediately, sometimes even on the same day that his predecessor leaves! Some of you may remember Richard

Mwansa, who visited us in 2006 when he was previously priest at St Joseph’s. He

is now a Canon of St Michael’s Cathedral in Kitwe. I have asked him to send photos, particularly of the roofing of their daughter church, Christ the King, which

was paid for in part by a donation from St Peter’s.

Joseph Mwenya (who visited us in 2018/19) tells me that he is well, and that his ordination training in Kitwe is a four year degree course.

There are worrying reports from Zambia about flooding (mainly in the Eastern

diocese area) and “gassings”. Criminals have sprayed an unknown substance in

people’s homes and in institutions including a boarding school dormitory. This has led to some instances of mob violence in retaliation against suspects, and a lot of

fear. I’ve not heard whether Kamuchanga has been affected. The motives are

unclear, possibly connected to elections next year. Zambia has been known as a very peaceful country in Africa, and this development gives great cause for concern.

Please pray for them.

Anne Sear

EVERCREECH RELIEF IN NEED Charity Commission Registered – 205527

A small village charity able to make modest one-off grants to help Evercreech

people, for example transport to hospital appointments, medical equipment or treatment not provided by the NHS or to meet unexpected expenses in the event of

a family crisis or immediate educational need.

Applications should be sent via letter or email to:

The Chairman Dr David Lindsay, Southwell House, Shapway Lane, Evercreech BA4 6JS

[email protected]

or The Clerk Michele Hole, Bowns View, Weymouth Road, Evercreech BA4 6JB

[email protected]

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Benefice Prayer Calendar

Sunday

Our Christian brothers and sisters in other churches, including the Baptist

and Roman Catholic churches, the Methodist congregation and the

Salvation Army in Shepton Mallet, the Methodist churches in Bruton

and Castle Cary, and the worldwide church, especially our linked churches

and communities: St Joseph’s, Kamuchanga Parish, Mufulira in Zambia;

St Philip’s in Nablus, with Rafidia and Zebabdeh in Palestine; the Nyanga

pre-schools in Zimbabwe.

Monday

St Peter, Evercreech: pray for the church and village community.

Pray for all the children and young people in the villages of our Benefice,

that they may grow up knowing security and love; for our schools and

colleges, and all who guide our young people. Pray for marriage and family

life in our communities, especially families coping with difficult situations;

and for those who are lonely.

Tuesday

St James, Milton Clevedon: pray for the church and village community.

Pray for all who live in poverty, whether locally, or far away; for refugees

throughout the world, those who are hungry. For agencies who offer relief

and support, especially Christian Aid and Citizens Advice. For farmers and

agricultural workers facing economic pressures, all working in the villages

of our Benefice, especially those who are far from home, that they may be welcomed; for those searching for work.

Wednes

day

St Mary and St John, Lamyatt: pray for the church and village community.

Pray for our benefice, our Clergy, Readers, Lay Worship Assistants, Lay

Pastoral Assistant and all who minister and serve in our churches. Pray that

we may be guided and strengthened by the Holy Spirit as we continue to serve our communities in the love of Christ.

Thurs

day

The Blessed Virgin Mary, Batcombe: pray for the church and village

community. Pray for our neighbouring Benefice of Bruton.

Pray for our Diocese: our Bishops, Peter and Ruth; for our Archdeacon; for our Deanery as together we seek to live and tell the story of God's love for

all people.

Friday

St. Mary Chesterblade: pray for the church and village community.

For all who look after for our health in Somerset: our hospitals, doctors’

surgeries, all who care for the frail, the elderly, and the vulnerable, in

residential homes and at home. Pray for those who work in the emergency

services, especially the Air Ambulance.

Saturday

St Mary Magdalene Upton Noble: pray for the church and village

community.

For the local councillors who work for our communities; our MP, our

Government, and for world leaders; for all who work in the media; that they

may all exercise their responsibilities with wisdom and work for justice and

quality of life for all. Pray that we may all care for our environment.

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Dear Friends,

It was with heavy hearts that the Archbishops of Canterbury and York recently wrote to clergy to say that

the Church of England must suspend all acts of public

worship until further notice.

In their letter they wrote:

‘As the challenge of the coronavirus grips the world, and

as the Government asks every individual and every organisation to rethink its life,

we are now asking the Church of England in all its parishes, chaplaincies and ministries to serve all people in a new way. Public worship will have to stop for a

season. Our usual pattern of Sunday services and other mid-week gatherings must

be put on hold. But this does not mean that the Church of England has shut up shop. Far from it. ’

In the Alham Vale benefice we are absolutely committed to ensuring everyone in

our community is protected as far as possible and so we are following this

instruction until further notice. It is an unprecedented action but comes after serious reflection on the current information available about the Covid-19 virus and the

implications for those who become infected who are older or have underlying health

conditions.

The Archbishop’s letter goes on to encourage us to continue in prayer and where

possible to offer online resources to people. We realise that across the Alham Vale

Benefice there are many for whom this will be a devastating blow as our services are a source of invaluable human contact as well as a spiritual lifeline.

Please be assured that you are being held in prayer and we ask you to also pray for

our community especially those who are lonely and anxious. We would also

encourage you to pick up the phone to one another or pop a card in the post, so that we continue to enjoy one another’s company despite the inevitable distance this

new situation creates.

How are we responding at Alham Vale?

Each week members of our Ministry team will post a simple service for use at home

on the Alham Vale Benefice website, http://www.alhamvalebenefice.co.uk, this

will include each Sunday’s readings and a thought for the day.

Morning and Evening Prayer will be said privately each day by the Ministry Team and others on behalf of the whole community. Do let us know if there is anyone you

would like us to include in our prayers.

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The churches of our benefice will be open during the day as community spaces for private prayer.

The ministry team will offer the Eucharist throughout this time of suspension on

behalf of us all, during which prayers will said for those living in our benefice, for our neighbours and for the wider world.

We will post prayer and worship resources for you to use at home on the Alham

Vale Benefice website shortly.

And finally, please pray: God of love and hope,

you made the world and care for all creation,

but the world feels strange right now. The news is full of stories about Coronavirus.

Some people are worried that they might get ill.

Others are anxious for their family and friends. Be with them and help them to find peace.

We pray for the doctors and nurses and scientists,

and all who are working to discover the right medicines

to help those who are ill. Thank you that even in these anxious times,

you are with us.

Help us to put our trust in you and keep us safe. Amen.

With my love and prayers,

Revd. Helen Drever Vicar of Alham Vale

Food Bank

Please consider buying a couple of extra items

each week for the foodbank in Shepton Mallet.

There is a box at the back of St Peter’s Church for donations (non-perishable items only,

unopened packs, in date please) or you can take

things yourself to the Salvation Army in

Shepton.

Many thanks for your generosity

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News from Lamyatt

Like everyone else, we here in Lamyatt are coming to terms with all that is currently going on around us

including of course the suspension of Sunday services

for the time being. No Easter communion –

unbelievable! However, our church will be open for daily prayer or reflection. Anyone who is worried

about the situation is welcome to go and use the resources there. We here in

Lamyatt have a team of volunteers ready to help those in need and I am sure we are very grateful. We all need to find ways to keep each other’s spirits up until we

emerge from this time. Remember :-

LOVE will never be cancelled PRAYER will never be cancelled

CONVERSATION will never be cancelled

KINDNESS will never be cancelled

FORGIVENESS will never be cancelled FRIENDSHIP will never be cancelled

SONG will never be cancelled

WORSHIP, as a way of life, will never be cancelled HOPE will never be cancelled

LET’S EMBRACE ALL THE GOOD THAT REMAINS!

Jen Richards

Quiz Question 1

On the side of what hill was the garden of Gethsemane?

Quiz Question 2

Jelly Beans are enjoyed in many countries at Easter time, but what is the most popular flavour of jelly bean

in the US?

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News from Milton Clevedon

In order to obtain approval for the repair of the North Chancel roof we have had to have a Bat Survey

conducted by a volunteer from Natural England. It was

fascinating to observe this taking place. He found some

bat droppings behind the altar and was able to identify some of them as from the Long Eared Bat and others

from Pipistrelle bats.

Outside, he put up the most ingenious ladder which was unpacked from what looked like a metal suitcase and which had guy ropes each side

to stabilise it. With this he was able to climb up safely and take photos of the roost

through the hole in the roof with a camera fixed to a long wire cable.

He also inspected the porch and other areas where he found alternative roosting

sites and he reassured us that once awake from hibernation they would find

excellent accommodation elsewhere in the roof. They are most useful to us as they

feed on the beetles and other insects that could damage the timbers.

We are looking forward to the roofing work being started very soon.

On the farm there are lots more signs of spring with blossom on the cherry plum

tree opposite the church in one of the fields. The grass is growing surprisingly fast for such waterlogged conditions. The cows, contented in their cubicle building, are

beginning to look towards the church and the fields rather longingly. If the ground

does dry out (and there is a lot of drying to do!), we hope to have them out by day

in mid April.

We are all sad that our pattern of services at St. James is cancelled for the time

being. We hope it won’t be too long before we can welcome everyone back to the

church in the farmyard. Tessa Calver

Quiz Question 3 A ‘Crucession’ is a procession headed

by which symbolic object.

Quiz Question 4

Pascua is the name for Easter in which language?

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Church Services in the Alham Vale Benefice

In light of the Government guidance around non-essential contact,

the Archbishops of Canterbury and York have issued advice that public

worship is suspended until further notice.

Our churches will remain open as places of prayer

but no public worship services will take place until further notice.

Loving God,

We pray for all those who are suffering because of the

coronavirus, may they know your healing power.

When we are afraid for ourselves and our loved ones,

give us your strength and courage.

When we feel alone and isolated, reassure us with a

sense of your presence.

Give wisdom to those in authority and may our

community work together for the good of all.

We give thanks for those who care for others and ask you

to bless them in all they do.

We ask this in the name of Jesus, healer and physician.

Amen

St Peter’s Church Cleaning Rota

Weekly Kitchen & Cloakroom Entrance & Prayer Corner

April Pauline Bishop Belinda Canning

May Pauline Bishop

Fortnightly Pews & Wooden Furniture Vacuum

April Doreen Poyntz Belinda Canning

May

We are still short of people on the cleaning rota for St Peter’s.

Please do consider adding your name to the rota.

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Daily Bible Notes

The May to August books of Guidelines & New Daylight have arrived but Linda

Denman is unable to hand them out and has asked Jane Neill to do this for her.

Unfortunately Jane doesn’t have a list of the recipients so if you regularly have one

or both of these little books can you give Jane a call on 01749 830513. Thank you.

Victory in Europe VE 75 Day On Friday 8th May 2020 Bank Holiday, we did plan to repeat the event held in Evercreech on VE day in 1945 to mark the end of

World War Two. These events will now take place later in the

year when the current coronavirus crisis is over.

There will be a family party on the cricket field which will be open from 2.30 pm. After Churchill’s original end of the war speech there will be children’s games, teas,

music and displays. Bring your own picnic, rugs chairs etc, dress in red, white and

blue if you can and come and have fun.

In the evening in 1945 there was a dance in the Village Hall so we plan to repeat

this too with a 1940s themed dance and a swing band. There will be a bar and a

ploughman’s supper.

An illustrated booklet on the story of Evercreech 1939-1945 will be on sale at the

Show Society Plant Sale in May.

as we have already ordered our plants for the May Plant Sale

THE SHOW SOCIETY PLANT SALE

on 2nd MAY WILL BE PROCEEDING.

The Show committee continues to monitor the situation and we will do whatever is

necessary to safeguard everyone's health This may involve changing the format

(running the event outside), introduce different ways of paying or if all else fails we will go online to sell the plants, but we will be going ahead.

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Evercreech Village Hall “Run by the community for the community”

Charity Number 304538

In line with the stringent instructions issued by the

government this week the Village Hall Committee reluctantly has had to announce closure of the Hall,

commencing Sunday March 22nd until further notice. Hopefully the national shut

down required will achieve an earlier resumption of ‘normal’ life.

Mollie Purse MBE, Village Hall Committee Chairman

Evercreech WI

At the March meeting we had a very interesting talk from

Barber’s Cheesemakers in Ditcheat, about the farmers that supply the milk, all the different products they make, the

different markets they supply too and of course, how they

make the cheese.

Due to the current situation regarding the advice on protecting ourselves from `coronavirus’, we will be cancelling our members meetings for the near future.

It is a hard time for everyone but I hope that we can support each other where

possible. I am trying to take a positive approach, getting on with the garden, doing some spring cleaning, de-cluttering etc. and making this trying period have some

value. All those things we never find time for. Wishing you all the best of health.

Hope to be together again soon.

President Carol Phillis on 830451 or email, [email protected]

Evercreech Friendship Club

“Where Friends are Made”

We are sorry to inform you that the Friendship Club has

been suspended until further notice, there will be no

meeting in April and possibly May due to the Coronavirus.

This decision has not been taken lightly. A full programme will resume as soon as

possible. We would like to thank all members for their support.

“YES, WE WILL RETURN !”

Our 2020 programme is on notice boards throughout the village

For more information please contact one of the following: Edward Porter 830015, Freda Boyce 830703 or Elaine Woodford 830795

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COMMUNITY COUNCIL FOR SOMERSET Tel: 01823 331222

CCS works to support community groups, organisations and individuals in

Somerset. We have a fantastic and dedicated team of local professional advisors

and pride ourselves on offering independent and impartial advice. Visit our website to find out more about how we support people, places and enterprise.

Our teams of agents include the Somerset

Village Agents, Carers Agents and

Community agents.

www.somersetrcc.org.uk www.somersetcarers.org

Evercreech Parish Council

I mentioned last month that the Parish council had recruited a new street cleaner, and I am now pleased to welcome Holger Harras in that role. Holger, who lives in

the village, started work on the 2nd March and, whilst it will take him time to visit

all of his working area, I’m sure you will soon begin to see an improvement in the cleanliness of our streets and public areas as the weeks go by.

Whilst on the subject of improving the appearance of our village, I can advise you

that the Parish council included the mowing of the grass area by the village sign/ planter on Prestleigh Road in its new, recently-awarded, 3 year ground maintenance

contract, so the appearance of this important entry point to the village should now

be properly maintained throughout the summer.

Finally, with the Coronavirus set to be with us for some weeks / months to come, the Parish council have included a link on its website to the relevant NHS site where

specific information about the virus, and what precautions to take, are available.

You are strongly advised to view this and any other relevant information that the council will be posting on its own site as it becomes available.

www.evercreech-pc.gov.uk

Murray Stewart, Chair, Evercreech Parish Council

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Mendip District Council

Dear friends

We are living in strange and uncertain times. The Prime Minister spoke this week

about being at war, and a lot of the language being used by the media is language

reflective of war. It’s an interesting metaphor to use, talking about an enemy that we can’t see, feel, touch, hear or sense. I have reflected many times this week on

that sense of impending doom, feeling of anxiety, sense of just waiting for

something to happen - it must have been what it felt like at the start of the world

wars. However at least we are not having to contemplate sending an entire generation off to die.

What struck me most forcibly this week has been the dichotomy of the pictures on

the news of people buying ridiculous amounts of food; supermarket shelves being cleared and then my observations of the actions of people in our village.

Our Community has come together to ensure that no one; whether sick or elderly or

self-isolating due to significant health problems is going to be in a position where

they cannot get necessary supplies, or their prescription.

Most importantly no one needs to be lonely.

By now everyone should have had a note through the door telling them who their

local volunteers are, where they can get help. There will be additional community activities on Facebook. If you know of any older residents who are living on their

own and don’t use social media and you think would like a friendly chat now and

again, please do let me know or get them to let me know, and I or another volunteer will be pleased to give them a call. This is not a time to be lonely.

Meanwhile at Mendip, business goes on as usual, although all of our staff are now

working at home. We are also in constant contact with Westminster to work out

how we all can continue to run the business of the council while not having meetings. At present the law does not permit for councils to make decisions by

online meetings, but we are hoping the law may be changed to enable that to happen.

For more information on what’s going on at Mendip I will be posting on my Facebook page or by video!

Finally, thank you Evercreech. We are a community, but more than that, we

are a village of friends.

Your Mendip Councillor

Barry Cllr Barry O’Leary, Tel: 01749 321421

https://barryoleary.mycouncillor.org.uk/ www.facebook.com/evercreech.barry/

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Evercreech Youth Club

We would like to thank everyone at St Peter's for the money donated to us from your Christmas fundraising. The youth club leaders all completed and passed an

emergency first aid at work course last Sunday, and the money you raised will cover

the cost of the training.

It was light enough for the younger children to run around outside recently and we are looking forward to the clock change and more outdoor games. All of the young

people are enjoying games of murder in the dark at the moment, although the leaders

aren’t enjoying the blood curdling screams that accompany the game quite as much! Last week we discussed cyber bullying and the advice for all ages to think

before posting on social media: is it necessary? is it true? is it kind?

Thank you for your support - we really appreciate being able to focus more on the children and less on fundraising.

Vikki, Kara, Jaci and Emma

Evercreech Village Hall.

Evercreech Films will sadly not be hosting a screening in April due to government

guidance that prohibits non-essential contact to try and stop the spread of the

COVID-19 virus. We do not know when we will be screening films again but we

will keep you updated.

We wish all our supporters well, please take care of yourselves and one another.

The Evercreech Film Team

THE JUBILEE HALL,

BATCOMBE, BA4 6HE

Unfortunately the 2019/2020 season has closed early so no film in April. We hope

that all will be back to normal when the new season starts in September.

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The copy date for the MAY Magazine is

Thursday 16th April

Please restrict articles to 350 words, notices and reports

to 100 words.

Items for inclusion and dates for the diary should be sent by email to [email protected], handed to the Churchwardens,

or left at the back of St. Peter’s church.

We reserve the right to edit any item submitted.

Would you like advertise in Evercreech News?

Half Page advert costs £5.50 per month

Quarter Page Advert costs £3 per month

If you would like to advertise please contact

Carol on [email protected] or call 01749 347823

Answers to the Quiz Questions

1. The Mount of Olives

2. Cherry

3. A Cross

4. Spanish

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TURN TO US FOR HELP AND SUPPORT

In your time of need we’ll take care of all the funeral arrangements. Call us 24 hours a day.

• Funeral Pre-Payment Plans

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Tel: 01749 342589

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07896 813934

[email protected]

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‘Caring for your pets as we do our own’

Shepton & Wells Vets Pets teams are here to help

you keep your pet healthy.

• Healthy Pets Club to spread the cost of routine treatment

• Routine general surgery, neutering and keyhole spay procedures Vaccinations • Routine flea & worm treatments

• FREE new pet welcome health check

• Free Nurse consultations • Puppy socialisation classes • Behavioural advice

• Modern, well equipped medical & surgical facilities

• Appointments available 6 days a week

& 24/7 emergency service

Shepton Vets, Allyn Saxon Drive, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5Q • 01749 343 955

New Branch:

Wells Vets, 3 Cathedral Avenue, Wells, BA5 1FD • 01749 678 420

www.sheptonvets.com

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Carpet & Upholstery Steam Cleaning • Powerful Van Mounted Equipment

• Residential & Commercial Cleaning

• Pre and End of Tenancy Cleaning

• Stains & Pet Odour Removal

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A carpet cleaner you can trust!

Call Sally

Mobile: 07766117219

Tel: 01749 440011

www.stainaway.co.uk

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As you are aware by the Government's directive, we are now closed as a Pub. However we are open for Takeaway Food! Menu’s can be found on our website: www.bellinnevercreech.co.uk. Orders can either be taken at

the bar or by telephone: 01749 830287.

We would like to thank you for your support during these difficult times, and we look forward to serving you in the not too distant future. Thank you

for your cooperation Dean & Anna Clarke and The Bell Inn Staff.