&

P l a n t S a l e & C o f f e e / C a ke M o r n i n g

S a t u r d a y 1 1 t h M a y

1 0 a m - 1 p m

T i t h e B a r n , C h u r c h S t r e e t

sponsored by Merriott Gardening Club

Come and try our homemade cakes and buy

some home grown plants, including bedding

(some lovely varieties of cosmos),

vegetables, perennials and not forgetting our

favourite Gardener's Delight

cherry tomatoes!

Look forward to seeing you there -

free entry

Barbara 72298

Y o u r e d i t o r i a l t e a m : John Bowman 74077

Marion Biggs 74170

Peter Bryans 78182

Jane Jackson 74162

Janet Lailey 271008

Eric Vose 351857

Paula Bateman 271175

E m a i l :

merriottmessenger@ gmail.com

MERR OTT MESSENGER Delivered free to 1,000 homes www.merriottvillage.btck.co.uk May 2019

Eve’s First Marathon

2

Social Venue Update

3

Message from the Parish Council

4

Did you know … 5

A round-trip leg-stretch to Dinnington

6 - 7

Useful Telephone Numbers

8

NEW FEATURE: FREE to a good home

9

Scout Expedition, Spring 2019

10

Book Review 11

Our sponsors 11-12

The information and views in the Merriott Messenger are those provided by the named individual contributors and are not necessarily supported by the Editorial Team. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information given is accurate, the Merriott Messenger cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. Copy date for the June issue is 12th May.

I n s i d e t h i s i s s u e :

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

All Saints Church, Merriott, presents

S W I N G i n t o S P R I N G An evening of singing from professional vocalist

GRAHAM DAVID

on Saturday 11th May at 7.30pm

Merriott Social Venue, Lower Street, Merriott

Tickets £7.50 (to include a light supper and must be booked in advance) are available from Jean

Crisp, 23 Beadon Lane, Merriott. 01460 279654 or email: jeanmcrisp23@gmail.com

All proceeds to Merriott Church

Annual Wine Bluff Merriott Village Hall

11th May 7.30pm Seven wines to taste,

but who is telling the truth?

Tickets £20 from Mike Dandridge 01460 74576 m.dandridge@btinternet.com

or from the Premier Garage.

Sparkling Wine

Reception

Two-course supper by

My Kitchen Catering of

Merriott

T h e r e ’ s l o t s o n i n M e r r i o t t t h i s m o n t h … …

P A G E 2 merriottmessenger@gmail.com

M e r r i o t t M e s s e n g e r

Ev e ’ s 1 s t M a ra t h o n - s h e m a d e i t !

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

M e r r i o t t G a r d e n i n g C l u b

Tuesday 28th May 'Patio Gardening' a presentation by a member of the Gardens Group, Sherborne. Please meet as usual at the Tithe Barn, Church Street, at 7.30pm - refreshments and raffle and don't forget to bring a flower for the judging the Flower of the Month competition. Non-members £2 at the door - everyone welcome.

For further information contact Barbara 72298. Barbara Byford

All Saints Church services in May

Sun 5th 10.30am Sung Communion

Sun 12th 10.30am Parish Communion

Sun 19th 10.30am All Age Communion

(replaces Family Service)

Sun 26th 9am Holy Communion

4pm Café Church, Hinton St George

Thu 30th Ascension Day

10am Benefice Communion Bob Hicks

On Sunday 7th April, Eve Sale, of Broad-way, finished the Manchester marathon, with a big smile on her face!

The organisers were aware that Eve is visually impaired, just 18 and raising money for the RNIB. So they made a lovely fuss, doing a TV interview and also getting her on stage at the night-before event, nicely named “Marathon Eve”! “Two Marathon Eve’s” they said. Lots of people saw this and during the race we had so manyencouraging shout-outs of “Marathon Eve!”.. “Go Marathon Eve” etc.

It was cold at 8am waiting for the start,

but later warmed up nicely. Perfect running weather.

It was tough from 10 miles to about 22. We treated ourselves to a few short

walks and kept well fuelled-up on a figgy, fruit and nut mix and quite a few jelly babies. We enjoyed lovely company and chats with others around us, gradually ticking off the miles. By the time we reached the last 4 miles Eve was feeling good and ran in really strong.

Eve finished in 5 hours and 52 minutes and most importantly raised an amazing £2,750 (incl gift aid) and rising, for the RNIB. The RNIB has been in regular contact and are hugely appreciative.

THANK YOU from us both, and the RNIB. Eve Sale & Nick (guide)

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/eve-sale

U m b e l l i f e r s i n t h e f l o w e r b e d s b y C B P l a n t s Umbellifers are characterised by flat flower heads consisting of clusters of tiny flowers on upright stems above ferny foliage. The soft airy look of many of the cow parsley family make them ideal companions to the more showy of garden plants. They are all really good pollinator plants and there are varieties you can plant to give interest from spring to autumn.

In spring, the dark leaved form of com-mon cow parsley, Anthriscus sylvestris ‘Ravenswing’, looks lovely planted with late flowering tulips. Ravenswing is a short lived perennial, although it does self-seed and is lovely in a wild or cottage garden.

Another popular cottage garden plant belonging to this family is Astrantia. Also known as masterwort or Hattie’s pin-cushion, the white or pink flower heads are umbels in miniature surrounded by a ruff of papery bracts, they prefer moist soils and part shade and flower in sum-

mer. These plants will grow to 40 to 60 centimetres.

For something taller and more dramatic Angelica ‘Ebony’ is a dark almost black leaved plant which grows to 1 metre and has flat clusters of small pink flowers in summer. This is a biennial, meaning it will die after flowering and setting seed but will seed itself if left to do so, it is best in moist soil in sun or light shade.

Looking quite different to the cow parsley types, the sea hollies or Eryngi-ums are also members of the same plant family. They have tightly packed cone shaped flower heads and prickly foliage that is silver or shades of blue. They are absolutely loved by bees and butterflies and need a warm and well drained spot to do well.

As well as perennials, there are some lovely annual Umbellifers that can be grown from seed in spring to give flowers all through summer and autumn.

Ammi majus is very delicate looking with large lacy white flower heads and lots of ferny foliage, another similar is Orlaya grandiflora. These are both excellent for cutting and are very popular with florists.

Catherine Bond, CB Plants

Eryngium, Sea Holly

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P A G E 3 merriottmessenger@gmail.com

OPEN

GROUP

2nd May: Plant and Book exchange

16th May: Visit to Towntree Farm Nature Reserve, Martock

30th May: Jewellery making

For further information contact Marion Biggs on 74170 or marionbiggs169@btinternet.com. Marion Biggs

M e r r i o t t S o c i a l Ve n u e U p d a t e

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Here I am sat on my balcony in sunny Portugal trying to remem-ber what’s on in May and all that’s happened in April! Well Easter’s been and gone, so now is the perfect time for the table tennis club to increase their sessions here at the Venue to burn off those calories and there will also be additional coaching sessions. More news to follow. Karaoke was a great night, as always, so look out for the next one. Pamper night saw the ladies celebrate Safina’s bride-to-be party and the Market managed without me and Steph being there well done .

Now what’s May got for us….. more fundraising events for various charities and a massive

bargain clearance sale as our office has become a little bit full (so I’m told). 4th May Fundraising Day to be held by Kerry & Kelsey in aid of Dorset Search & Rescue and Papyrus Suicide Charity. CAKES, Tombolas, Raffle. 7th May AGM 8.30pm - Merriott Youth Football 11th May Swing into Spring music night in aid of All Saints Church 12th May Table Top Clearance Sale, 2-4pm, lots of bargains to be had 18th May Quiz Night in aid of Merriott Majorettes - Teams of up to 6 25th May Bingo with Fantastic prizes eyes down 7.30pm

Lorraine Clarke Chairperson

Merriott Childcare Vanina Cooper & Out of School Club Telephone: - 01460 74086 07807 753779

The Woodland Trust is asking people to find and map ancient trees, after its Ancient Tree Inventory project help confirm the biggest collection of ancient oak trees in Europe.

At Blenheim Park in Oxfordshire, an astonishing 291 living oak trees with a girth of at least 16ft (5m) have been recorded. These data - collected primarily by Aljos Farjon, Kew's Oak researcher, determined that the collection tops a European league of Oaks. Ancient and veteran trees have the same protection as heritage buildings, but if left unidentified they cannot be protected, so mapping their locations is vital.

Anyone can record them on the inventory, which in the past decade has listed 160,000 trees, but there are thousands more still to add. To find out more and to add a tree to the inventory, go to the Trust's website: ati.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Taken from an article that appeared in the Daily Telegraph March 2019 written by Samantha Herbert and sent in by Mo Frampton

Ad-hoc F/T & P/T hours Early Years Educational funding

2, 3 & 4 years old 15 & 30 hours funding

We accept childcare vouchers. Facebook: Merriott Childcare www.merriottchildcare.co.uk

I have been Ofsted Graded “Outstanding” since 2009. Jane and I work together to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stages to under 5 years old in preparation for school. We have a unique learning environment with good links to Merriott pre-school and First School.

We work with children adapting to each individual’s needs building their self- confidence and self-esteem through various activities, socialising and play whilst having fun. Aiming to help children reach their own poten-tial. We go out and about to local groups within the community and venture further away on trips to the sea-side, park, Merriott Café, National Trust properties and other exciting places. We love the outdoors!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P A G E 4 merriottmessenger@gmail.com

M e s s a g e f r o m t h e P a r i s h C o u n c i l

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

To all the wonderful dog owners in and around Merriott:

Thank you for picking up your dog’s poop and placing it in the dog waste bins provided;

Thank you for not allowing your dogs onto the Recreation Ground, and

Thank you for keeping your dog under close control, both on and off lead.

I am sure your fellow villagers appreciate your responsible attitude.

To the minority of dog owners who do let their dogs foul on the pavements and footpaths, and make no effort to pick it up, please be aware this is not only very unpleasant, but it is also an offence.

In recent weeks the Parish Council has been made aware of dog fouling in Church Street and Lower Street, and would like to remind the dog owners that the fines range from £80.00 for an on the spot fine to £ 1,000 if taken to Magis-

trates Court, as two dog owners in Merriott have recently experienced. To be blunt, if you are not prepared to pick up the poop, don’t have a dog.

To the few owners who allow their dogs to go into the Recreation Ground, may we remind you that the signs saying DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED, do apply to you.

You are committing an offence and if a member of the public points this out to you, it is not appropriate to ignore them and continue to walk your dog on the recreation field. The Recreation Ground is covered by CCTV and we will take action if you continue to walk your dogs here.

To the handful of owners, who allow their dogs to run freely off lead, with little or no supervision, please observe your dog at all times and ensure your dog has excellent recall and will come to heel when called. People should be able

to enjoy a walk without fear of your dog jumping up at them, or approaching a dog on lead. And if you have any doubt about your dog’s reaction to other dogs, please keep them on lead in public places.

Finally, to anyone who sees a dog foul-ing, or being walked at the Recreation Ground, or not well controlled off lead, please contact the Clerk to Merriott Parish Council - merriott-clerk @hotmail.co.uk or contact the District Council Dog Warden, Chris Rowland on 01935462829.

Complainants details are strictly confidential.

Merriott Parish Council will be consider-ing whether to publish the identities and details of future offenders.

Please show your friends and neighbours some consideration and be responsible for your dog(s).

Iain Hall, Chair, Merriott Parish Council

Crewkerne & District Twinning Association

We are looking for hosts for three nights bed and breakfast to accommodate our friends from France.

A group of ‘twinners’ from the towns of Igny and Bures sur Yvettes will arrive in Crewkerne in the evening of May 30th, some of them having cycled all the way!

To entertain our visitors a day trip is arranged for Friday and an art exhibition will be staged in Crewkerne Museum. Saturday is a day at leisure, followed by a Farewell Soirée in the evening, before we say our ‘Good byes’ early on Sunday morning.

If you are interested please contact Lorna Scudder on 01460 72962 or email laylanboris@gmail.com.

Able Alex is a local business able to assist with the smallest of jobs to the more complex and demand-ing. Anything around your home, garden or commercial property all at extremely reasonable rates.

Services available include: Landscaping, fencing, gardening, hedge and grass cutting, weeding and planting, patio and decking clean-ups and general household DIY.

Please feel free to call me on 07951 327 616 for a free, no obligation quote. https://m.facebook.com/handymanmerriott

N e w S p o n s o r

P o l i c e P o s t at

Merriott Recreation Ground

12.15 pm until 1. 15pm

Saturday 18th May

Please come along with any question or concerns or just to say hello!

M e r r i o t t M e s s e n g e r

R o a d C l o s u r e s - p l e a s e w a t c h o u t The Parish Council has been notified about a host of imminent road closures in South Somerset relating to broadband installation.

Two of these affect Merriott directly. One is from the junction of Higher Street and Church Street through Boozer Pit to the junction with the A356. The other is

the road to Lopen, going north from the turning to Hinton St George for nearly 1km to the far side of Eggwood Hill. Both closures can last for 5 days but the dates are not known.

There are also closures indicated by signs lasting for 12 days on the Lopen Road starting on 2nd May.

John Bowman

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tuesday 9.30 - 10.00

7th May

P A G E 5 merriottmessenger@gmail.com

Mobile Library @ Merriott School

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

As their name implies, these sheep have a long association with the Island of Portland. Their origin is far from clear, though they are thought to be a mixture of double spiralled horned sheep which came to this country from much further east in the Urals as early as 4000 BC and a later migration of Mediterranean long-tailed sheep in about 1500 BC. The latter had an ability to lamb in all seasons, which the Portlands have retained.

A more unlikely story is that they came with the Spanish Armada and when the invading ships were sunk the animals escaped and came ashore.

According to the Doomsday Book, of 1086 AD, there were about 900 sheep on Portland. Since then, Portland sheep

have been exported all over the British Isles and further afield. By the 1920’s all the Portland sheep had left the Island and have only recently been re-introduced.

Portland sheep are a tan faced breed with a relatively small body size (perhaps

35 to 45kg adult weight). Their meat is said to be tender but is particular-ly prized as mutton. King George III is said to have always ordered Port-land mutton if he was in the Dorset area. The fleece is medium quality and weighs about 3kg when shorn. The ewes usually produce a single lamb but this may be at any time of the year, which is seen as an ad-vantage by farmers.

In 1973 a survey of the breed found only 81 ewes and 12 rams, though this was known to be an underestimate. Since then numbers have increased, and with strong support from the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, are now estimated to be between 900 and 1500.

John Bowman

D i d y o u k n o w … … P o r t l a n d S h e e p

C A R E F O R D L O D G E

A warm greeting is assured for you at Careford Lodge, so please call in to see Tracey and her team at any time. Our home offers a relaxed and homely environment, providing bespoke care packages, social stimulus, a varied choice of delicious menus, freshly prepared daily by our chefs and an activity programme with some-thing for everyone included. Whether looking for day care, respite care, or a home for life, Careford Lodge is here to provide the care and support you need.

Tracey and the team would also like to extend an invitation to the local community to visit and spend time with residents whilst enjoying refreshments in the lovely surroundings that we enjoy daily.

For more information, please contact us on 01460

75592 or email Laura at carefordlodge@hotmail.co.uk

A group of Portland ewes with a ram (extreme left)

S o m e r s e t M a r q u e t r y G r o u p Following from my "history" of the Marquetry Society last month and mentioning our annual National Compe-tition/Exhibition coming up on 25th May - 30th May we have been busy getting our pictures ready for despatching. This year three of us are entering exhibits, usually it is normally me but it is nice to have the support of the other two. I was originally entering two items: the Hesketh racing car driven by James Hunt and a Spitfire picture, but I have been asked by the President of the Society to send my pic-ture of a Skyhawk which I entered some years ago for inclusion in his President's Corner. This is where the President can ask for pictures for his Corner which he felt were ignored for any awards and is

usually six or so displayed at the National and also featured in the Quarterly Maga-zine with suitable comments. I must be honoured as he asked for my Honda Fire-blade motorbike picture last year!! This is also a boost for our Group as our name will be well displayed. Talking of that, we would still like to see anyone who would like more information on this fascinating hobby and have some spare time on their hands. Do come and talk to me at the Indoor Market or come and see us at Mike Burnham's house, the one behind Osborne's old shop in Broadway, you will see our notice on the end wall of the house. There is no entry fee or annual subscription to be paid, it's all free - apart from 50p for tea and biscuits! We

are there every Thursday afternoon from 1.30pm to 4.00pm, so come and see us. We will also be exhibiting in Crewkerne Library on Saturday 18th May from 12.00 to 5.00pm. Please note that my email is williken@ btinternet.com, it was wrong last month and my phone number is 74567. Mike Burnham can be contacted mick_burnham@outlook.com or tel. 35178. Ken Smart

M e r r i o t t M e s s e n g e r

P A G E 6 merriottmessenger@gmail.com

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

As the warmer and hopefully drier weather is just around the corner, an extended local walk is offered for a leg stretch and a change for the dog walkers amongst you. The description starts and finishes at the Merriott Feed Station on Church Street, and whilst the full circuit is around 6 miles (3 hours) there are a number of locations where the loop can be shortened to meet per-sonal energy and time constraints.

Initially, head down Sandy Lane and after a brief hundred yards or so head off to the left, down the Bridleway (Bowood Lane) that heads towards Egwood. Whilst this can be a tad muddy in wet weather, there are a mass of current badger sets on both sides (might be a good plan to keep smaller dogs on a lead at this stage).

At the Lopen Road, cross and bear very slightly right to enter the field via the side gate. Here the path is clearly marked and runs along a hedgerow on the left-hand side of 3 fields. Several stiles aid fence crossing. As you enter the 4th field you may find it in crops – if so turn immediately right and you will locate a track after around 100yds – turn left onto this track and cross the field. You then join the Hinton St George road through a gateway. This marks the 1 mile point, and there is an option to return to Merriott by turning left along the road.

Continuing on, turn right and head into Hinton St George. Follow the road on and to the right where it splits. If this is far enough there is a nice option to turn left towards the church, then follow round to the left and return to Merriott along the road (or back the way you’ve come – this will achieve a loop of around 3 miles). Opposite the church is the entrance to a footpath that enters a wooded area and takes you via some steps and a kissing gate, into and down through the fields. A nicely positioned bench seat makes this a great place for a breather, a picnic and the taking in of a cracking view. On down the slope, stay to the right and over stiles in the righthand corner of the field. From here it’s straight on, keep-ing to the right until you get to a stream and pond.

At this point there is a further option. To shorten the walk a little, turn right, Easterly towards Lopen (skip a few lines to pick up the route description marked with a red star). This description will go left towards Dinnington, so keeping the stream and hedgerow on the left, aim for the stile in the far left corner of the field. Once over this, stay left and enter Mill lane via a gate in the left corner, adjacent to Mill Farm. Turn right on Mill Lane and once through the farm buildings and the house on the left, enter the next field via the stile

A r o u n d - t r i p l e g - s t r e t c h t o D i n n i n g t o n

P A G E 7 merriottmessenger@gmail.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

and cross near diagonally to an exit stile in the far right corner. Diagonally across the next field brings the route out into Dinnington, having traversed around the paddock which is home to chickens, ducks and a goat or 2. This first half of the route terminates opposite the Dinnington Docks pub (around 3.4 miles).

…... and then there’s the return route ….

Leaving the Docks on the left, head down the road towards Lopen. After around 1,500 yds, take the right hand turn back towards Mill Farm, where the route retraces its track until it gets back to the small reservoir.

Now, leaving the small reservoir on the left, navigating over the stile and keeping to the right of the long narrow field that ends on Summer Lane. Cross the lane via the stiles and cut diagonally across the large field (although this is usually put to

crops there is a well-worn tractor route which makes it easy to follow) over to the next stile in the far left corner. Over the stile, keep the hedgerow on the right to the gateway, and then go left over the field towards Lopen’s Manor Farm. Here a further stile puts you on to Water Street …. There is then a little bit of the route which is utilising the roadway. Water Street and Frog Street put you onto Merriott Road, where you turn right.

After around 150yds, cross the road and go left towards the Timber company and the Bee Hive Storage facility. Keep the fields on the right as you enter the industrial complex and in the far right corner is the next stile. Go left on the Bridleway and head East for around 350 yards before turning right over the next stile. Straight across the field is a set of 2 further stiles which cross a small wooden bridge. Once through this section keep straight on, keeping the hedgerow on the right until exiting through a small metal gate onto another Bridleway (Egwood Lane). Left again until you get to an ‘aged’ metal gate across the track. At this point there is the penultimate stile of the route, taking the walk into a large field where your final stile is pretty much in the centre of the far hedge. From here you aim for the far left corner of the field, where the gates share space with a stream and pool where the animals drink. Go through the 2 gates and you’re back on to Sandy Lane …. from here it’s a right turn and the route completes its loop after around 1,200 yds. From here it’s home for ‘tea and stickies’ in celebration of all the calories burnt off.

Important (albeit perhaps obvious): Whenever trekking across fields please be sensitive to those areas where crops have been sown and try to stay to the hedgerows (even if the mapped path takes you directly across the space). If you have to open a gate to enter or leave an area, please ensure to close it behind you. In addition, you will need to be aware of those areas where livestock is grazing – particularly sheep and young lambs.

Steve Bateman

M e r r i o t t M e s s e n g e r

P A G E 8 merriottmessenger@gmail.com

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

All Saints Church

Rectors: Rev Julia Hicks & Rev Bob Hicks 76406

Benefice Administrator (Office) - Isabel Welsh 73226

Churchwardens - Tom Jones 240615

PCC Secretary - Vacant

Allotment Association (Merriott) - Beryl Bellamy 74574

Baby Clinic - Health Visitor 77600

Badminton Club - Merriott - Penny Harvey 73180

U3A Badminton Players - Mike Larkcombe 01935 476 397

Bowling Club - Ian Kendall (Secretary) ` 73029

Breeze Dance (Toddlers) - Jo Sivell 07841 913 323

Brownies - Pat Johns 73738

Campanologists (Bell ringers) - Anita Glasson 73368

Community Responder Scheme - Jayne Preston 75162

Crewkerne Voluntary Transport 271669

Cubs & Scouts - Debra Cummings 07966 047953

District Councillor - Paul Maxwell 271155

Drivers (Merriott) - David Collins 279623

Evergreen Club - Wendy Brown 76756

Floodline 0845 908 1188

Football Club, Secretary - Angie Rowswell 74889

Gardening Club - Barbara Byford 72298

Guides - Hilary Court 77538

Gun Club (Merriott) - http://merriottgunclub.co.uk

Marquetry Club - Ken Smart 74567

Majorettes (Merriott) - Sarah Foley 01935 840 173

Merriott First School - Head, Anne Higginbotham 72547

Merriott Karate Club - Brett Jacobs 07968 953705

Merriott Parish Footpath Group - John Goldie 73158

Merriott Pre-School - Jenny Hayne 77922

Open Group (Merriott) - Marion Biggs 74170

Parent & Toddler Group (Minnows) Natalie Stahl 07834 456 376 Sophie Lewis 07842 896 942

Parish Council, Chairman - Iain Hall 73771

Parish Council, Clerk merriott-clerk@hotmail.co.uk

Police Community Support Officers (PCSO) 101

Pilates - Belle Palmer 07593 299284

Rainbows (First Merriott) - Ebony Court 77538

Short Mat Bowls Club - Frank Smith 07956 598894

Social Club (Merriott) - Lorraine Clarke 07885 424588

Squash Club (Merriott) 77872 / 07718 664147

Membership - Matt Gentle 07872 040 204

Tithe Barn Bookings - Mrs Down 72316

Village Hall Bookings - Martin & Michelle Rowswell 72508

Youth Football Club (Merriott) - Monica Hayden 74449

U s e f u l Te l e p h o n e N u m b e r s

Can anyone identify this bird seen from the window of Paula Bateman’s house? If you can, please contact Paula direct: bateman_paula@hotmail.com

Anemone, photo taken by John Bowman

Hinton St. George ‘Flix in the Stix’ proudly presents

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’

Saturday 11th May

in the Hinton Village Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £5 in advance from the Village Shop and Dorothy’s Tea Room, or £5.50 on the door. Doors open 7.00 pm. To reserve tickets please contact Bob Kefford on 01460 72563.

The story of the legendary rock band Queen and lead singer Freddie Mercury, from their inauspicious beginnings to their famous perfor-mance at Live Aid in 1985. The film is led by the actor Remi Malik whose performance was highly regarded and was rewarded with a Best Actor Bafta & Oscar in 2019. A thoroughly enjoyable film that flies by, for all not just fans of Queen's music!

Andrew Overhill

P A G E 9 merriottmessenger@gmail.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

C e l e b ra t i n g R e d N o s e D a y a t C a r e f o r d L o d g e

C o m m u n i t y P a v i l i o n

To book this fine village amenity for your get-together, please contact

01460 73771 or email: merriott-clerk@hotmail.co.uk.

Only £20.00 per session.

A new service for residents.

If you have items you wish to get rid of free then please put your notices here.

Send brief details of item and contact to merriottmessenger@gmail.com

FREE to a good home FilmCrew's final screening of the season will take place on Friday 24th May and is our Members' Choice - ‘The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society (2018). In the aftermath of World War II, a writer forms an un-expected bond with the residents of Guernsey Island when she decides to write a book about their experiences during the war.

Screening is at Wadham School. Doors open at 7pm, film starts 7:30. Visitors can pay at the door - £6. It will then be followed by our Annual General Meeting. Current members will be able to re-join for next season at the early bird, discounted loyalty rate. Other arrangements will be made for members who cannot attend that evening. Non-members will be able to join as well, for the full membership fee. John Facey

M e r r i o t t M e s s e n g e r

P A G E 1 0 merriottmessenger@gmail.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Spring has arrived at last and with it comes the usual reminder to check the security of your sheds, garages and out-buildings. Marking your property with a postcode/house number or symbol can prove invaluable when suspected stolen property is recovered and any items identified can then be returned to their rightful owners.

We have had some recent theft from vehicles and from outbuildings in Merriott and the surrounding areas. If

you have any concerns or suspicions please report them promptly by ringing 999 or 101 (non urgent).

The Beat Team is now working visibly in the community so hopefully you will see more of us on foot patrol, in cafés, supermarkets and attending local events such as coffee mornings at Sherlands and Merriott church. Please approach with any concerns you may have or just to say hello.

If you are worried or concerned by something happening in your community, we can’t help you if we don’t know about it. You can report any concerns by ringing the above numbers, via the Avon and Somerset website or by e-mailing: michellehaimes@ avonand somerset. police.uk

A PCSO will be at Merriott Recreation Ground Carp Park on Saturday 18th May.

Michelle Haimes

PCSO 8913

S o u n d a d v i c e f r o m t h e p o l i c e

T h e M a r y A n n i n g S c o u t E x p e d i t i o n , S p r i n g 2 0 1 9

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

As a part of their badge qualification, four Scout leaders enabled six of our local scout group to undertake a demanding, but very rewarding, cross-country expedi-tion over the weekend before Easter. The challenge required them to develop their spatial awareness, map reading, leadership and investigative skills, whilst building their endurance, personal confi-dence and developing teamwork.

The expedition was tasked to cover a significant amount of ground through varied terrain, with the aim of locating the Church in Lyme Regis where Mary Anning is commemorated and laid to rest. Mary Anning was born on 21 May 1799 and lived in the English seaside town of Lyme Regis in Dorset. Her family was very poor, which meant she didn’t get to attend school much, instead, she mainly taught herself to read and write.

Mary would spend her time searching the coast looking for what she called ‘curiosities’, and later in her life, as she developed a better understanding of her finds, she realised they were actually fossils. Over the course of her life she made many incredible discoveries, making her famous among some of the most important scientists of the day. They would visit her for advice and to discuss scientific ideas about her fossils. Today, Mary is remembered as one of the greatest fossil hunters to have ever

lived. Mary died of breast cancer in 1847 and is the subject of a film currently being filmed in Lyme.

The day commenced on the Saturday morning with the Scouts being dropped off at the National Trust Carpark at Lambert’s Castle (near Marshwood), and having located the trig point on the high ground, they followed the track heading South. Carrying day rucksacks with their lunch, maps, compass and a bag or 2 of sweets, they were accompanied by clear skies and a very chilly wind which required several layers of extra clothing to combat. Just North of Wooten Fitzpaine the group turned Westward through fields and woods before crossing the A35 at Penn. A much-needed lunch in a sunny spot followed, before heading back into the woods and fields before entering Lyme Regis. At the stream that runs through Lyme, the Scouts were given some questions relating to Mary Anning to challenge their investigative skills. This required them to locate Mary’s Grave and to identify the church window that has been created to commemorate her life and work. With this achieved, the

Scouts took stock with an ice cream on the beach before heading North to their overnight camp site at Uplyme.

After erecting their own tents and cook-ing their own meals on small methylated

spirit stoves, the scouts headed off into the local woods for some ‘wild games’, just to ensure that whatever energy they still had was squeezed out. At around 9pm it was time to get their heads down after amassing around 12½ miles and on what felt like one of the coldest nights of the year.

The Sunday morning started with a self-cooked (boil in a bag) breakfast before clearing away the tents and camping equipment and readying themselves for the last activity, which saw them all firing air rifles on a closely supervised range against paper and metal targets. Some proved to be better shots than others, but all quickly got the hang of the rifles and the event quickly became quite com-petitive.

With mums and dads collecting some extremely worn out, but highly motivated scouts at around lunchtime it is worth noting that these events can only be achieved with the assistance of enough willing adults. The Scouts and Cubs are currently hard against the line regarding sufficient adult helpers, so if you have just a little time each week, and are able to offer your skills to the scouting organi-sation it will enable these youngsters to keep this very valuable development activity in their lives

Steve Bateman

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Songs of Praise 1st Sunday of each month at 6.30pm.

All welcome.

Land to the north of Half Moon House, Boozer Pit. Erection of 2 dwellings 19/00911/FUL

Part Tail Mill Lane Erection of 9 residential dwellings 19/00698/OUT Marion Biggs

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P A G E 1 1 merriottmessenger@gmail.com

T h e r e i s n o P l a n e t B We are all aware that the worst crisis of our genera-tion - climate change - is upon us and that it is partly our responsibility. We understand that it will most seriously affect future generations and that it needs to be addressed and acted upon in small and large ways by all of us.

Children around the world are protesting and begging governments to honour the pledges they have made to halt this disaster. We can join them, but we can also seek out ways of reducing our own contributions to this complex and dangerous situation which is already affecting peoples’ lives and livelihoods in diverse parts of the world.

A CLIMATE CHANGE EXHIBITION will take place on Sunday 2nd June in the Secret Garden at the far end of West Street, Hinton St George from 10am to 5pm. All are invited. Geraldine Downey 271358

Amanda K-Davis 72553

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tom Merrick

Electrical Contractor Agricultural & Industrial

No Job too small NAPIT approved contractor

01460 72757 07980 686 160

Tamboleyn Streeter Garden Design 07809 234845

info@tamboleynstreeter gardendesigns.com

www.tamboleynstreeter gardendesigns.com

More Sponsors

Merriott Mobile Feet Treatment

• Foot health assessment • Nail cutting • Thickened nail reduced • Corn removal • Hard skin and Callus removal • Ingrowing Toe Nail Treatment • Cracked Heels Treatment • Diabetic Foot care • Fungal Infections

For relief from pain and discomfort For improved appearance of your feet

Contact : Sarah on 07733225360 www.feettreatment.co.uk Email : sarah@feettreatment.co.uk

Professional Treatments by trained Nurse and Foot Health Practitioner RNLD S.A.C Dip FHPT S.A.C FHPP

Introducing a NEW mobile service. Home visits cost just £25.

Full Foot Health check included in price. Equipment sterilised to 134° and vacuum packed

for individual use.

Gardening quote of the

month Sent in by Mo Frampton

“The world's favourite season is the Spring. All things seem possible in May."

- Edwin Way Teale

Book Review “The Man with no Face” by Peter May

Peter May is a well known thriller writer whose novels have settings as far apart as the Outer Hebrides ( The Lewis Trilogy), China (The China Thrillers), France (The Enzo Files). "The Man with no Face " was originally written in 1981 but has recently been revised

and republished.

It is mainly set in 1979 Brussels and, in an atmosphere that seems curiously relevant today, deals with characters involved in the politics of the EU. It has a well constructed plot involving an investigative journalist on the trail of murder and corruption. A poignant relationship develops with a severely autistic child who proves to be a key witness to her father's killing, and the story builds to a tense conclusion.

May has a gift for cleverly evoking the settings for his novels and the small details of how different circumstances were in the 1970 - 80s from the faster pace (especially of communication) nowadays adds a nostalgic element. Sheila Bowman

Do you have a story to share

with our readers?

Articles from the residents of Merriott who receive the Messenger are always welcome, so do please send them to us for consideration.

Email:

merriottmessenger@ gmail.com

Thank you.

The Barn Self Catering

Accommodation 32 Church St

Merriott TA16 5PS

01460 351857 07879 066012

thebarnmerriott@sky.com

smartinbuilding@ yahoo.co.uk

07792 821 028

Find us on

T h a n k y o u t o o u r s p o n s o r s f o r t h e i r s u p p o r t

Open 6 days a week

Tel: 01460 249730

Church St Merriott TA16 5PR Tel: 01460 78912

also on

Secure self storage & removals Competitive rates, easy & flexible

01460 243100

lopen@beehiveselfstorage.co.uk www.beehiveselfstorage.co.uk

Serviced Offices To Let

More on page 7

www.somersetreiki.com Sara Morley

sara@somersetreiki.com 07484 636577

Restaurant, Hotel & Event venue. We are open every

day, pop in for a coffee or book a table on

01460 77095

www.haselburymill.co.uk

Merriott Social Venue •open every evening

•spacious function room available for hire

01460 74376

merriottsocialclub@hotmail.com

All aspects of tree and garden work undertaken

info@arbtreeandgarden.co.uk

01460 77605 / 07799 331 805

Appliance Maintenance Services

Domestic Appliance Repairs Tel: 01460 72211

Mob: 07970 744 115 www.appliancemaintenance.co.uk

Chris Martin Interiors Ltd

Specialising in installation of kitchens and bathrooms

01460 76612 07976 848 677

Merriott Parish Council

merriott-clerk@ hotmail.co.uk

07526 933464

@MerriottParishCouncil

01460 279 279 www.stokespartners.co.uk

Letting, Investment and Property Management for

S Somerset & W Dorset 01935 420555

yeovil@martinco.com www.martincoyeovil.co.uk

Merriott Pharmacy

Free prescription collection & delivery

01460 72222

merriottpharmacy @hotmail.com

MERRIOTT HERITAGE TRUST

merriott.heritage.trust @gmail.com

01460 72465

R. A. Wicks Ltd

Fireplace Showroom, Flue Lining, and Multi Fuel

Stoves 01460 74612

Jays

Complete Property Maintenance

Over 20 years experience No job too small!

01460 78891 07865 700 760

Veterinary

Crewkerne

your local vets

01460 72443

Allen Computer Services

Sales, Repairs, Servicing, for Home & Small Business, Cloud

Backup and Laptop Screen Repairs

01460 298036

www.allencomputerservices.co.uk

Moorlands Residential Home

Moorlands Road

Quality care for the elderly

Contact Jayne: 01460 74425

jayne@moorlands-care.co.uk

P. CABLE Plumbing & Heating Services

07920 003938 •Gas & Oil Central Heating

Systems •Servicing & Landlord safety

checks •Bathrooms/showers/

kitchens •All general plumbing

Fusion Fostering We are always looking for

families who can offer warm, loving and safe homes to

children and young people who need Fostering. Tel: 03301 239355

info@fusionfostering.com

Popular Motors, Merriott Service Station

Broadway, Quality Car Sales, Workshop, MOT testing Garage & Car Service -

01460 76803 Shop and PO - 01460 78716 www.popularmotors.co.uk

Jaycee Plumbing Heating Engineers

Boiler servicing and changes Lpg / Oil / Gas-Safe

Laurel Cottage, Shiremoor Hill Merriott

07970 279778 / 07738 632746 Ansaphone: 01460 76000

Jayceeplumbing@gmail.com

Charlotte Hamlin Merriott Childcare

OFSTED & PACEY registered

Full/part-time hours Early years funding

Between 6.00am & 6.30pm www.charlottehamlin.co.uk

01460 73361 07721 018 335

Robert Frith Optometrists

your local independent Optician

FREE emergency appointments under the NHS Somerset ACES

service Chard 67771

Crewkerne 72964 Yeovil 01935 478463

Manor Farm - Your local farm shop

Lower Street, Merriott TA16 5NP Tel: 07963 102258 nigel.witcombe@

gmail.com

16 South Street Crewkerne TA18 8DA

01460 200666 5% off our advertised price

for people of Merriott

Merriottsford Minibus

01460 76029

Taxi Alliance 01460 75089 / 01935 414444

D R I V E R S W A N T E D

Unisex hairdressing, eyebrow tinting, waxing & threading.

HD Brows Lower Street, Merriott.

01460 74811/07803 572642

Kevin Swain

Electrical Contractor

Free Estimates Tel 01460 73260

Merriott Village Hall Parties, weddings, community groups

welcome 01460 72508

merriottvillagehall @gmail.com

Sally-Marie Shearing Beauty Therapy

Relaxing, Revitalising,

Beauty Treatments

Tel 01460 73957 Gift Vouchers available

IAN CROSSLAND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Tel: 01935 411813 Mob: 07811 070 498 Interior and exterior

decorating, Household carpentry, External lime

mortaring, Restoration work

Able Alex Ltd

Landscaper & Handyman

07951 327 616

ablealeaxmerriott@gmail.com