Notice Board
Membury Mercury Advertisements May 2022
All the good people listed here help pay the costs of the Membury Mercury, delivered four times a year. Just as they support us, please consider supporting them.
News from Membury Friday 20th May
100 Club Winners
And the May winners are …
Sue and Paul Nicholson £30
Mike and Jenny Beaman £10
Nick and Josee Yool £10
You can still join in if you wish by contacting David Neill helenanddavidneill@icloud.com – who knows? if you win first prize, it may help you put down a deposit on a loaf of bread next month!
Devon and Cornwall Police
Action Fraud has received 752 reports in four days relating to fake emails purporting to be from Ofgem. The emails state that the recipient is eligible for a rebate as a result of a newly announced government scheme. The links in the emails lead to genuine-looking websites that are designed to steal your personal and financial information.
Please view our tweet to see a screenshot of the fake emails reported to Action Fraud: https://twitter.com/CyberProtectUK/status/1527657160586444800?s=20&t=RdAiopW83gUlsAymvjnu5g
Remember, your bank, or any other official organisation, won’t ask you to share personal information over email or text. If you need to check that it’s a genuine message, contact the company using details from their official website or app.
Spotted a suspicious email? Forward it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) – report@phishing.gov.uk
Notice of Election
An election is to be held for a Member of Parliament for Tiverton and Honiton Constituency.
Forms of nomination for the Parliamentary Election may be obtained at Phoenix House, Phoenix Lane, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 6PP from the Acting Returning Officer who will, at the request of an elector for any electoral area, prepare a nomination paper for signature.
Nomination papers must be delivered to the Acting Returning Officer, Phoenix House, Phoenix Lane, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 6PP on any day after the date of this notice between the hours of 10am and 4pm but no later than 4pm on Wednesday 25 May 2022.
The poll will take place on Thursday 23 June 2022.
Applications to register to vote must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 12 midnight on Tuesday 7 June 2022. Applications can be made online: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.
Steam Cleaner
Hannah de Bruin at Little Goslins has a surplus steam cleaner. If you would like it, contact her on hbalne@yahoo.com
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3187d05
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/317a627
More on the Rogation Service
The Rogation Service on 22nd May is at Bowditch Farm, Burridge, Chardstock EX13 7DF (north of Chardstock, up from Hooks Cross) – home of Edward and Janet Eames. Bring and Share Tea for 4pm, Service at 5pm.
Rogation is when we pray for God’s blessing on the crops and the well-being of our parishes. As part of our Service all the farms in All Saints’, Chardstock and Membury will be named. Do join us as we celebrate this great rural festival. For more information please contact Revd Tracey
If it is fine, Petronella aims to be walking there from Star Cross at 2pm.
Membury Pre School Opening!
Membury Academy Newsletter
News from Membury Thursday 19th May
Oak Apple Café
We have all sorts of exciting things at the Village Hall on Friday afternoon at the Oak Apple Café, the loudest of which will be a concert from the school children.
On the menu, we have
Spicy sausage rolls
Veggie Flan (gluten free)
Coffee & Walnut cake
Ginger Traybake
Lemon Drizzle
Chocolate & Beetroot cake
Shortbread
Sticky date ginger cake
It would be great to see you all there!
Fish and Chips
Don’t forget to let Jill know on 01404 881641 07710849894 or jill-folletts@outlook.com if you want to order fish and chips for Saturday
Ice Cream Update
Unfortunately, someone unplugged the freezer in which all our ice cream was stored so there won’t be any for Saturday night. We’ll get some more for the jubilee, but this is the third time this has happened, and on this occasion, we lost over £150 of delicious Baboo Gelato which was all completely melted. This happened even though the switch for the plug was taped over. The plug was removed, and replaced (at some point later) in the adjacent socket which was not switched on. This is not only a waste of your village money, but very frustrating for the Merrymakers.
Canal Boat for Hire
Jubilee Bulletin No 25
The line-up for the Jubilee Concert has been announced. This is what we plan to livestream from the Village Hall on Saturday evening, from 7:30pm
Jubilee Bulletin no 26
Please can people have their scarecrows up and ready by 29th May, for both judging and Oak Apple Day. It might make his Majesty Charles II feel happy to see some descendants rooting for him.
Rogation Sunday
This year, the Rogation Service is going to be held at Bowditch Farm in Churchill. 4pm, tea followed by a service, where all the local farms will have prayers said, including all of the Membury farms.
Christian Aid Week
This week is Christian Aid Week, a global organisation, which supports humanitarian mission. £20 will provide 5 farmers in Zimbabwe enough drought resistant seed to support their families. Plus, Christian Aid are continuing their efforts to help Ukrainian refugees, providing safe passage to friendly countries and transporting aid where necessary. If you’d like to help, please pick up an envelope in the church or village hall, which gives details of how you can donate.
Oak Apple Day
If you would like to join us all for a Ploughman’s Lunch in the Village Hall on Sunday, 29th May after the Oak Apple Day Procession, please let Jenny Beaman know (Tel. 01404 881 828 or Email jennybeaman@mac.com) by Next Thursday Evening , 26th. May.
Jubilee Bulletin No 27
Don’t forget to get in touch with Daniel if you have any contributions to the collection of royal memorabilia which will be on display in the Village Hall from Oak Apple Day until the end of the Jubilee celebrations. Danieljlazar@gmail.com of 01404 881408
ARC Axminster
James is running for ARC !
Can you help him reach his goal and help to make a difference for our local community ?
We are so grateful to James Whetlor. He is going to run the Edinburgh marathon on May 28th, in aid of Arc Arc has provided help and support to some of his closest friends at a time when they really needed it and will always be grateful for that.
Many of you may have seen him as he trains by running out through Membury. It’s pretty hilly but it should stand him in good stead for the fairly flat Edinburgh route. He ran the Amsterdam Marathon back in October and finished in 4.5hrs.
Please support JAMES via the Just Giving Page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/james-whetlor2
Airband Update
One of our more remote (but still much appreciated) parishioners has forwarded me a message from Airband as follows:
“Dear Resident or Business Owner,
Airband has been working in your area over recent months building essential broadband infrastructure. This is part of a new Ultrafast fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) broadband network we are providing across a large part of rural Devon on behalf of the publicly funded Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS) broadband programme.
To date, we have provided over 18,700 homes and businesses in Devon with access to superfast broadband and we are now delivering a full fibre service, capable of delivering speeds of up to 1Gbps, to a further 46,000 premises over the next three years.
We are pleased to confirm that construction of this new network is well underway in your area and is due for completion over the coming months. Many customers will be able to connect sooner than that as the network goes “live” in phases.
We would like to invite you to a public webinar on Wednesday, June 1st, 2022, at 7pm using the link https://msteams.link/LTTK or by scanning the QR code shown. This will give us the opportunity to present the programme, share information about the build and the benefits of the new Ultrafast network. This will also be an opportunity for Airband to answer any questions you may have.
Can we also take this opportunity to thank you for your patience while you wait for the new service and apologise for any disruption you may experience due to our construction work.
Yours faithfully,
Andrew Roberts – Key Account Manager 07508 812720”
Images from Furley
These pictures were taken by William Pearse at his grandad’s home in Furley. If any other of our younger parishioners want to send me any images I’ll be pleased to share them round!
News from Membury Wednesday 18th May – Special Bumper Jubilee Edition
Membury celebrates
Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee
We are planning to commence celebrations on the evening of Thursday June 2nd.with a Pop-Up Pub and BBQ in the Village Hall from 7:30pm followed by a firework display at 9:45pm – Viewing from the village
Pre-firework entertainment by the Raucous Chorus
The BBQ will be a ticketed event.
BBQ Tickets (£5 per person) must be bought in advance by 30th May and can be purchased at:
Oak Apple Cafe 1:30-3:30pm on Friday 20th and 27th May
Oak Apple Day 12-1pm Sunday 29th May in the Village Hall
Any questions to Trina 01404 881542
We will continue celebrating on the afternoon of Friday June 3rd 1:30-4pm with a very special Jubilee Oak Apple Café & Car Show.
The café will be 1950’s themed – held in the Village Hall.
Dress up in 50’s style (optional), listen to music from the era, and indulge in Afternoon Tea served on vintage china.
In the car park we will have a selection of cars on display.
Café questions to Jenny Beaman 01404 881828 , Car Show questions to John Hodge 01404 881837
On the evening of Saturday June 4th the village hall will be open from 7pm for socialising with a pop-up pub, and we will be livestreaming the Jubilee Concert from London
Can’t be bothered cooking that evening? Why not arrange for your favourite takeaway to be delivered to the hall.
Questions to Jill Bellamy 01404 881641 or Rose Shepherd 01404 881647
On the afternoon of Sunday June 5th we will round off our celebrations with our Village Street Party
(well actually a car park party) from 2-5:30pm
Dress in red, white and blue, and Bring Your Own food to share
We will be setting out tables in the car park, and hoping we have enough chairs for everyone!
Pop-up pub available in the hall, and there’s a picnic field nearby
Prizes for best fancy dress
Around 5:30pm we are hoping the church bells will welcome people to close out our celebrations in
Membury Church for Jubilee Praise @ 6pm
The Raucous Chorus will be singing
Throughout the whole four day extravaganza there will be an exhibition of Royal Memorabilia curated by the Local History Society in the Committee Room at the hall
Offers of help and enquiries to Sue Nicholson: 881737 or suenicholson1960@me.com
News from Membury Monday 16th May
Fish and Chips
The chip van will once again be calling at the car park by the village hall on Saturday between 6pm and 7pm. To be sure of your supper (£7 per portion), please let Jill have your order by ringing 01404 881641, 07710849984 or emailing jill-folletts@outlook.com
The bar will be open from 6pm onwards. Eat your fish and chips on the terrace and enjoy a little Otter!
Lost your specs?
These glasses were found on Saturday afternoon by Thorn Farm on Mill Lane, Furley. If anyone knows who might own them, please could you contact 07715 640316.
Annual Parish Council Meeting Agenda
Councillors are summoned and members of the public are invited to attend the Annual Parish Council Meeting of Membury Parish Council, to be held in the Membury Village Hall on Tuesday 24th May 2022 at 7:30pm to discuss the following matters:
2246. Welcome
2247. Apologies
2248. Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman and signing of Declaration of Office
2249. Minutes: To adopt the minutes of the meeting held on 5th of April 2022 as a true record.
2250. Declarations of Interest under the Code of Conduct: Councillors are reminded of the need to declare any interests either at this stage of the meeting, or as soon as they become aware of the interest. The reason for the declaration must be given, and whether it is a personal or pecuniary interest and any actions they intend to take when the item is being dealt with.
2251. Appointment of: Flood Warden, Tree Warden, Snow Warden, P3 Co-ordinator & Footpath Warden, defibrillator contact & Simpkins Edwards Contact
2252. Election of Representatives to outside organisations: Village Hall, Playing Field, Emergency Officer, Blackdown Hills Parish Network Representative
2253. County and District Council Reports: County Councillor, Iain Chubb (DCC) and District Councillor, Paul Hayward (EDDC)
2254. To review and agree Section 2 – Accounting Statements for the Annual Audit
2255. Finance
- a) To approve the financial statement for March and April 2022
b) To consider, approve and sign the Annual Governance Statement for the Annual Audit
c) To consider the Internal Auditor report 2021
d) To approve the continued use of BACS payments, DDs, and Standing Orders
e) To review Payroll Service Providers
f) To approve the following payments:
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting £150.00
BT Group Village Hall Broadband (January) £32.40
Clerk R Davey Salary February £385.75
Clerk Ana Silson Salary February £136.64
HMRC Clerk’s Tax February £55.60
Membury Merrymaker Grant £550.00
Serenata Flowers Flowers £34.99
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting (March) £150.00
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting (April) £150.00
Clerk R Davey Salary Back Pay £53.53
Clerk Ana Silson Salary March £275.98
HMRC Clerk’s Tax March £82.00
BT Group Village Hall Broadband(February) £32.40
DALC Course £19.20
Tinderbox Playing Field Fencing Repairs £444.00
Axminster Printing Leaflets £35.00
Village Hall Hire £7.00
DALC Membership £123.20
ROSPA Playing Filed Inspection £88.20
SLCC Filca Course £144.00
Clerk Stationary (Ink) £38.72
Clerk Stationary £8.15
SLCC Membership £98.00
Merrymakers Jubilee Celebrations £471.00
N. Warren Grass Cutting £166.90
Parsons Rural Serv. Footpath Maintenance £146.26
Clerk Ana Silson Salary April £273.66
BT Group Village Hall Broadband (March) £36.25
HMRC Clerk’s Tax April £68.20
- Planning
2257. Review Internal Controls and Procedures:
a) Code of Conduct b) Standing Orders c) Financial Regulations d) Asset Register e) Risk Assessment Register f) Privacy Notice g) Councillor Privacy Notice h) Information & Data Protection Policy i) Management of Transferable Data Policy j) Press & Media Policy k) Document Retention & Disposal Policy l) Disciplinary Policy m) Grievance Policy n) Complaints Procedure o) Publication Scheme p) Grant Awarding Policy q) Training Policy r) Statement of Internal Control s) Policy on Filming & Recording of Parish Council Meetings
2257. Review Fixed Assets
2258. Playing field report
2259. Proposed pet burial at land East of Sunnyside
2260. Amendments to the Neighbourhood plan rebuilding and pollution control
A) New developments
B) Agricultural expansion of livestock
2261. Bonds Lane flood mitigation measures
2262. First aid course for the village
2263. Community Shop
2264. Parish Councillor Reports
2165. Correspondence
2166. Public Forum
Wildlife 1
This bird was snapped not far from Star Cross and East Membury Farm.
The plumage looks much paler than the usual buzzards around here.
Can anyone identify it?
Wildlife 2
Dryad’s Saddle on a fallen tree, on the Stockland Road, near the Waterhouse turn
Wildlife 3
This marvellous structure is a beaver dam on the river Tale at Broadhembury. If the little fellows make it to the Yarty, this might be what we’ll see!
Springwatch 2022 on the Stockland Turbaries
A relatively mild winter led initially to an early spring, somewhat delayed by a spell of dry weather with cold nights in April. January saw contract work by the RSPB team attacking Cherry-laurel in Shore Bottom, Huntshayes and on Horner Hill, all part of the Woodland Management agreement under a Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship. In early March there were some excellent displays of Wild Daffodils for which it seemed an unusually good year. The first of the new hatch butterflies, Green-veined White, and the first arrivals of migrant birds, Blackcap and Chiffchaff, were with us in late March. Then April saw the emergence of Orange-tip, Holly Blue and Speckled Wood, and the arrival of Swallow and Willow Warbler. No sign yet of either of the Flycatcher species. A Greenfinch has taken up residence at the pub and a Moorhen is showing interest in the pond at Quantock.
Geoff Pearce also reports that he has found not a single brood of Tawny Owl among the many chimney boxes installed on the turbaries. He ascribes this to a dearth of prey this season. Disaster befell the Kestrel box on Quantock Common late in April when its Pine tree fell, smashing the box at what may have been a critical time of year. Despite rapid replacement by a smart new box, there has so far been no interest from the Kestrels.
Oaks that are wind-pollinated trees shed abundant pollen (as hay fever sufferers are keenly aware) before their leaves unfurl which, at Quantock this spring I think, occurred on 16th April. Wind-pollinated herbaceous plants include Dog’s Mercury and Stinging Nettle both of which are dioecious, having their sexes on separate plants. Primrose, the prima-vera symbol of spring, employs a different mechanism that encourages cross-pollination, in which a plant is either “pin-eyed” (the female style reaches to the top of the flower tube whereas the male anthers reach only half way up the tube) or “thrum-eyed” ( which is the reverse).
Now in the second week of May as I write, perhaps at the very finest time of year, the masses of Bluebells on Horner Hill are just passing their prime. Ash leaves are now also unfurling, having shed their pollen on the wind. Soon we shall be able to see the extent of Ash Die-back here, as dead trees become more obvious. An increase in the amount of standing dead wood that inevitably arises can be expected to enhance populations of wood-boring insects and their predators.
We hope to be able soon to welcome our ponies back again to graze the enclosures on Bucehayes, Quantock and Shortmoor Commons. We also hope to be able to go ahead at last with a pilot trial of “virtual fencing” on Horner Hill where four Devon Ruby cattle will browse and graze the open heathland for a couple of months this summer.
A new book on The Stockland Turbaries; Management for Wildlife and People will be launched at the Kings Arms pub on Friday 20th May at 5pm.
David Allen
Goren Farm Walk
Goren Farm walk: last few spaces available
21st May 2022, 10am – 1pm
A reminder that we are looking forward to a visit this Saturday to the wildflower meadows on Stockland’s doorstep up at Goren Farm, led by Julian Pady. We will hear about Goren’s incredible biodiversity, learn about some of the ecological aspects of managing the land and have a chance to see the meadows in Spring.
Refreshments will be available & Goren Farm shop will be open (Cider! Wildflower seeds! Honey!)
More information about Goren farm can be read here: https://www.goren.co.uk/pages/about.
Tickets: £5 per person, please book ASAP.
Please contact Claire claireholgate@hotmail.co.uk to book.
Claire Holgate
Sustainable Stockland environment group
07771 786610
What’s On at the Honiton Beehive
On Thurs 19 May at 7.15pm
LIVE SCREENING Swan Lake (12A) performed by The Royal Ballet
Tickets: Adult £17, Student £11
On Friday 20th May at 7.30pm with allocated seating.
Genesis Visible Touch
The ultimate Phil Collins-era Genesis show! Last at the Beehive in February 2020 with the Duke Tour and one of the last & best gigs before lockdown. Great to have them back again. Tickets: £20
Saturday 21st May at 7.30pm
FILM : The Outfit (15)
From the Academy Award-winning writer of The Imitation Game (Graham Moore) comes The Outfit, a gripping and masterful thriller in which an expert tailor (Academy Award winner Mark Rylance) must outwit a dangerous group of mobsters in order to survive a fateful night. Tickets: Adults £7.50, U16 £6.50
To book ring the Beehive Box Office on 01404384050 9-5pm weekdays or book online https://beehivehoniton.co.uk/whats-book-tickets/
News from Membury Sunday 15th May
Yellow warning of thunderstorms
The Met Office have issued a yellow warning of thunderstorms between 20:00 tonight and 05:00 tomorrow.
Although the locations affected by thunderstorms remains uncertain, a few places may experience a combination of heavy rain, frequent lightning and hail during Sunday night. Should thunderstorms develop, they are likely to move north from the south coast during Sunday evening into parts of south Wales, southern England and East Anglia overnight before gradually weakening during Monday morning. Whilst some places will remain dry, a few places may see 20-30 mm of rain fall in less than an hour, with frequent lightning and hail additional hazards.
Super Blood Moon
One of our planet’s most stunning sights is coming to the skies – a super blood Moon. In the year’s only full lunar eclipse, Earth will come between the Sun and the Moon. Falling fully into Earth’s shadow, the Moon will slowly darken before turning dusky red. The Moon will appear larger than usual because it will be at its closest point to Earth of its orbit, giving it the name super Moon. It will also be called a super flower blood Moon. In the Northern Hemisphere, a full moon in May is often called a flower Moon because it coincides with the Spring flowers. The only sunlight reaching the Moon during the full eclipse will be passing through the Earth’s atmosphere. This light will be blood red, from all Earth’s sunrises and sunsets reflected on to the Moon’s surface, explains Dr Gregory Brown, astronomer at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London.
Look low on the horizon between 0230 and 0430 BST Monday morning and you’ll see the moon falling into shadow before glowing red. Watching from a high vantage point like a hill or tall building will be essential because of the Moon’s very low position in the sky. Let’s hope that the promised thunderstorms don’t spoil the view for anyone dedicated enough to climb a hill at 03:00 tomorrow morning!
Jubilee Bulletin no 24
We have an important update to announce. We have made the difficult decision to abandon plans to have a bonfire beacon on Thursday June 2nd, but will still have our fantastic firework display and bbq. The logistics have proved too challenging, and a bonfire at Membury Castle would not be visible in the village as the trees have grown quite a bit since the last beacon.
We are disappointed that we are having to change our plans but hope you understand. We still hope to see you at the Village Hall that evening.
Merrymakers News may 2022
Thank you to those of you who came along to our AGM. Jill Bellamy stepped down as chair of the committee, and both she and Janet Andrew resigned from the committee.
Jill has chaired the MerryMakers for 5 years, and we thank her for the good work she has done. She will be a tough act to follow! Janet has been involved with the MerryMakers for over 20 years and we will miss her valuable knowledge. The good news is that we know where both of them live, and we won’t be afraid to ask them to share their wisdom.
Ceri and Martyn Dash volunteered to join the committee. A big thank you to them and we look forward to working with them.
Our new committee is:
Chair: Sue Nicholson
Secretary: Daniel Lazar
Treasurer: Patrick White
Rose Shepherd
Jenny Beaman
Ceri Dash
Martyn Dash
We will transition into our new roles over the next few weeks, and once our Jubilee celebrations are over we will have a committee meeting to plan events for the rest of the year.
Do you want to be involved but missed the meeting? Then please contact suenicholson1960@me.com. The more the merrier, the more events we can run, and the more fun we can have.
Axminster Foodbank
DESPERATE plea from the food bank!
Our stockroom is now virtually empty, while we are trying to feed an increasing number of families in need. Over 70 people need our help each week. The numbers are rising daily…
Every donation counts, so please donate whatever you can.
We desperately need:
Long life milk
Pasta Sauce
Rice
Tinned tomatoes, sweetcorn, potatoes, carrots, peas, rice pudding and custard.
Also, tinned meats, baked beans, soup.
Biscuits
Bags for life
Thank you to all those who continue to donate. We are extremely grateful.
Axminster Health and Wellbeing Centre is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 10:00 – 13:00, or donations can be left in the Co-Op or Tesco.
Chard School Summer Fair
What’s on in Membury?
Week commencing May 16th
Monday May 16th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing in Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday May 17th
Toddler Group at Membury School at 11am
PCC Meeting in the Village Hall time TBC
Wednesday May18th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday May 19th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday May 20th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm with a musical performance by the school
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday May 21st
Fish & Chip Van in the Hall Car Park 6-7pm
Pop-Up pub in the Village Hall 6pm onwards
Sunday May 22nd
Week commencing May 23rd
Monday May 23rd
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing in Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday May 24th
Toddler Group at Membury School at 11am
Parish Council Meeting in the Village Hall time 7:30pm
Wednesday May25th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday May 26th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday May 27th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday May 28th
Sunday May 29th
Oak Apple Day
Assemble at the Chestnut Tree to parade through the village at 11:00am
Opening of the Village Terrace followed by reading of the proclamation, a short service and ploughman’s lunch and apple cake (contact Jenny Beaman 01404 881208)
News from Membury Friday 13th May
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/316f29e
Himalayan Balsam
A tip from Chardstock Eco Group:
Once you’ve pulled it (preferably before it flowers) hang it in a handy tree – it can’t get washed into a river and it can’t re-root itself. Stop the Invasion!
Membury Academy Newsletter
News from Membury Thursday 12th May
Oak Apple Café
Jenny, Mike and Rose are in charge tomorrow, and if you haven’t already taken advantage of it – it should be a good day to try out The Terrace!
The café will be open between 1:30pm and 3:30pm as usual. Sue Nicholson is hoping to be down there if there are any jubilee issues you want to raise – or support you want to offer!
Here’s what’s on the menu …
- Butternut squash soup & Homemade bread
- Sausage rolls
- Cheese scones
- Lemon drizzle cakes
- Date flapjacks
- Coffee and walnut cake
- Banana and chocolate muffins (vegan)
- Magic bars
News from Membury Wednesday 11th May
Oak Apple Day
Oak Apple Day will be celebrated, as always, on May 29th.
Oak Apple Day was an English, Welsh and Irish public holiday, observed annually on 29 May, to commemorate the restoration of the Stuart monarchy in May 1660. Membury is one of the few villages in England where this event is still celebrated.
Unfortunately, the public holiday was abolished in 1859 but that won’t stop us!
This year we will be assembling at the Chestnut Tree at 11:00 on Sunday, before strolling down to the church accompanied by King Charles II on his horse, a band and banner carriers. On the way down, the King will officially open The Terrace by the Parish Hall before reading his proclamation in the churchyard, and – with a little historical creativity – castigating Cromwell. There will then be a short service followed by a ploughman’s and apple cake with cream to be served at the hall, for donations. The bar will also be open. We need an idea of numbers for the lunch – so if you wish to eat with us please contact Jenny Beaman on 01404 881208 or jennybeaman@mac.com by 18/5/2022
Jubilee Bulletin no 23
The Local History Society will be mounting an exhibition in the Village Hall on June 3rd as part of the Jubilee celebrations. If you have any memorabilia or artefacts relating to the coronation or reign of Queen Elizabeth that you would be prepared to lend us for this exhibition please contact Daniel Lazar 01404 881408 or danieljlazar@gmail.com . Items need to be dropped off at Haccombe by May 29th at the latest please – or we can collect if required. Whether it’s a mug, a plate, a model of a coach, a coin, a medal, a photograph, a newspaper, the crown jewels, an event programme or anything royally related we’d like to borrow it please!
No Mow May
In organic agriculture there is a period in late April known at the “Hungry Gap”. It’s the time when winter root crops are running out and newly sown summer plants are yet to start cropping. In nature a similar period exists for nectar-feeding insects and hence a movement known as “No Mow May” is gaining Mow-mentum.
By keeping the lawn mower in the shed for the month of May, it gives the various grassland plants such as dandelion, speedwell and daisy, chance to blossom and provide a flow of nectar through this hungry gap.
They may be common weed plants more usually treated with disdain by the gardener, but in spring their contribution to insect larders can’t be over-emphasised and by following this simple calendar year-on-year you will start to notice more wildflower species pioneering your lawn. Adding wildflower seed will further help the process along and those of us with the bug enjoy a beautiful display of grassland plants all the way through to a late summer mow in September – there’s always another job to keep you occupied even if the mower lies dormant.
Wild East Devon News
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/316f0b8
The Big Plastic Count
Count your plastic for one week – 16-22 May 2022.
Across the country, households of all shapes and sizes, schools, community groups and businesses, will gather new evidence. How much plastic are we really having to throw away, and what happens to it?
We’ll show the government it’s time to commit: reduce single plastic use by 50% by 2025 by switching to reusable options that work for everyone – and ban sending our waste to other countries.
Find out more and sign up here https://thebigplasticcount.com/how-it-works
Wild Live – are our river protections failing?
In this free online event tomorrow (Thursday 12th) we’ll be discussing the state of our rivers in the UK and why, despite legal protections being in place, many of them are in a dire state. We will be coming to you live from the River Wye, which is just one of the many rivers suffering from devastating species loss, to hear from the experts about how bad the situation is, what’s causing the problem and to understand whether anything can be done about it.
The expert panel will consist of
Feargal Sharkey – Lead singer of The Undertones and campaigner for cleaner rivers
James Hitchcock – Chief Executive of Radnorshire Wildlife Trust
Sarah James – Intensive poultry unit farmer keen to reduce the farms impacts
Nicola Cutcher – journalist and documentary maker, passionate about the state of our rivers.
Register here https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/events/2022-05-12-wild-live-are-our-river-protections-failing
Are you Lonely?
It’s Mental Health Awareness Week 9-15 May 2022
Read the Devon County Council special newsletter here: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3166f4e
Death on the Nile
West Side Story was a long film yesterday evening, so it was decided not to show the trailer for Death on the Nile – our next Moviola Film on Tuesday 14th June
If you want to watch it, you can find it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZRqB0JLizw
Broadhembury Biodiversity event
The Cotley Inn
The Cotley Inn, near Chard, will have to wait until the VisitEngland national awards ceremony on June 8 at the Library of Birmingham to find out if they have won gold, silver or bronze.
The pub, run by Maddie and Ben, is nestled at the foot of the Blackdown Hills and offers ‘British cooking and refined comfort food’, with a focus on local produce.
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “We are delighted to be bringing VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence to the Library of Birmingham this year and to be meeting in person again as our sector comes together to celebrate the finest in English tourism.
The Cotley Inn also won the Gold in the Pub of the Year category in the Bristol, Bath, and Somerset Tourism Awards 2021/22, which linked them to the VisitEngland Awards.
There’s also a monthly quiz at the Cotley (on Thursday 19th) expertly run by Cath Hine which is great value at £2.50 per person, max 6 to a team and I can guarantee that the answer to at least one of the questions will be Coldplay. Book in your team by ringing 01460 62348.
News from Membury Monday 9th May
Moviola tomorrow – West Side Story
Leonard Bernstein wrote the original music for the 1957 musical version of Shakespeare’s tragedy Romeo and Juliet – reimagined in New York with the Sharks and the Jets replacing the Montague and the Capulet families. West Side Story was filmed in 1961 and the running time was 2 hours and 33 minutes. Spielberg has indulged himself in this, his first musical, and the new version is three minutes longer. You might want to bring a cushion!
Jubilee Bulletin No 22
The survey is now closed. Thank you to the 64 households that responded – we now have a reasonable idea of the rough numbers of attendees for each event. If you plan to come along to anything with a large group, but haven’t let us know yet, please just respond to this email.
Merrymakers AGM
We could do with more people on the Merrymakers committee. If you are new to the village, full of energy and good ideas please come along from 6:30 on Wednesday – this will give us plenty of time to ply you with wine to help you decide that you would like to join us!
Stockland Turbaries Book Launch
A new book entitled The Stockland Turbaries: Management for Wildlife and People will be launched at The Kings Arms pub on Friday 20th May at 5pm, selling at £10 each. Come and pick up your copy!
The book is written principally for residents of Stockland parish as a record of the work done on their turbaries since 1995. It also gives an insight into the ecology and biodiversity of these precious pockets of land. It begins with a look at social and ecological history, tracing the origin of the turbaries and their ownership. A chapter on management describes what has been done, by whom, with what purpose and with what success. This is followed by chapters on natural history and habitats, giving a glimpse of what an observant visitor might find on walks at different times of the year, then on biodiversity gains and losses. The book ends with a look at future prospects for conservation management in the long term.
David Allen
Goren Farm walk: farming for the environment & nature
21st May 2022, 10am – 1pm
This will be a wonderful visit to the wildflower meadows on Stockland’s doorstep up at Goren Farm, led by Julian Pady. We will hear about Goren’s incredible biodiversity, learn about some of the ecological aspects of managing the land and have a chance to see the meadows in Spring.
Refreshments will be available & Goren Farm shop will be open (Cider! Wildflower seeds! Honey!)
More information about Goren farm can be read here: https://www.goren.co.uk/pages/about.
Tickets: £5 per person, only 30 spaces available so please book ASAP.
Please contact Claire claireholgate@hotmail.co.uk to book.
Claire Holgate, Sustainable Stockland environment group 07771 786610
Yarcombe Village Country Market
News from Membury Sunday 8th May
Merrymakers AGM
Would you like a say in what social events are organised in Membury? And how we raise money to fund the Membury Mercury?
Then come along to the Membury MerryMakers AGM on Wednesday May 11th 7pm in the Village Hall
Refreshments from 6:30pm
The AGM will be followed by a jubilee planning meeting
Duck Stuff
We’ve somehow managed to acquire these 4 ducklings – and they’re growing fast! If anybody has a duck house and a duck run big enough for them to enjoy running around in we’d be most happy to buy it from them.
Please ‘phone 01404 881 828 or email:- jennybeaman@mac.com., Thanks, Jenny and Mike Beaman.
Local Open Garden
In support of Axminster Hospital League of Friends and to raise funds for the Home Nursing Service, the owners of Socks Orchard in Smallridge, are opening their fabulous garden on 24th, 25th and 26th June, between 1 and 5 pm. The garden has recently been open for the National Garden Scheme.
Over 200 different rose varieties, a large number of interesting trees including a small orchard, alpine troughs, scented geraniums and succulents along with an extensive variety of vegetables and fruit.
Wander around at your leisure and all for a fiver!
Oh! And not to forget the delicious homemade cakes.
On sale there will be plants, cards and much, much more.
Dogs welcome on leads.
Come and have a lovely afternoon out and support our charity.
Moviola in the Village
On Tuesday we will be showing West Side Story. Winner of the Oscar for best supporting actress (Ariana DeBose) this spectacular much anticipated Spielberg musical comes to the big screen in Membury
Manhattan, Upper West Side, 1957. Against the backdrop of the decaying tenements in the San Juan Hill neighbourhood and the constant threat of the wrecking ball, two warring gangs–tough Riff’s Jets and swaggering Bernardo’s Puerto Rican Sharks–fight for supremacy. Now, with a once-and-for-all, winner-takes-all rumble on the cards, an unexpected whirlwind romance at the high-school dance between former Jet brawler Tony and Bernardo’s delicate little sister María sets the stage for an all-out turf war. But what’s a gang without its territory? Above all, when the future is uncertain, what’s hope without love?
Considering the relatively large 60-year time span between the original and this production, three actors who appeared in the 1961 release reprise different roles in this 2021 production, including, Rita Moreno, Harvey Evans and David Bean. Evans and Bean were both members of “The Jets” in the original, respectively playing Mouthpiece and Tiger. Evans passed away two weeks after this film’s release. In addition, John Williams served as music consultant for the film. He had been the piano soloist in the 1961 version of the Film.
Moviola in Chard
This Friday (13th) Cinechard are proud to present “Belfast” at Holyrood Academy (upper site) at 7pm for 7:30.
Belfast, 15 August 1969. Surrounded by sporadic violence and growing danger, nine-year-old Buddy finds himself confronted with the ugly reality of sectarian conflict. And, as the suffocating stranglehold of increasing turmoil tightens around his once-peaceful working-class neighbourhood, Buddy tries his best to understand The Troubles–after all, someone must be responsible for forcing people to flee their homes. Now, Buddy’s family must come face to face with a nearly impossible, life-altering decision: stay or start packing?
Winner of the Oscar for best original screenplay, this film was written and directed by Kenneth Brannagh. To capture moments of spontaneity, he would often, secretly roll camera on scenes that Jude Hill (“Buddy”) thought were just rehearsals. Jude eventually began to suspect what was happening, so the crew taped over the red lights on the camera that signalled it was rolling. Many scenes in the finished film were these “rehearsals”.
Incidentally, if you are fan of Van Morrison there are no fewer than 10 of his songs featured in the film
What’s On in Membury
Week commencing May 9th
Monday May 9th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Bellringing in Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday May 10th
Toddler Group at Membury School at 11am
Moviola in the Village Hall 7pm for 7:30pm
West Side Story
Wednesday May11 th
MerryMakers AGM in the Village Hall at 7pm
Cheese and wine from 6:30pm
Jubilee Planning Meeting to follow at approx. 7:30pm
Thursday May 12th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday May 13th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
Mobile Library at Gowan Brae and the Village Hall 3:10 – 14:30
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday May 14th
Sunday May 15th
Holy Communion in Membury Church at 11am
Week commencing May 16th
Monday May 16th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing in Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday May 17th
Toddler Group at Membury School at 11am
PCC Meeting in the Village Hall time TBC
Wednesday May18th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday May 19th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday May 20th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm with a musical performance by the school
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday May 21st
Fish & Chip Van in the Hall Car Park 6-7pm
Pop-Up pub in the Village Hall 6pm onwards
Sunday May 22nd
News From Membury Friday 6th May
Mercury Reminder
Today, May 6th is the official deadline for the Summer/Jubilee issue of the MERCURY. If you have not yet submitted your article please do so AS SOON AS POSSIBLE as time is very short for this issue.
For those of you who have already submitted your article, many thanks.
The Editorial Team
Oak Apple Café
Thank you to all who ran, and attended the café today. A total of £131 was raised for the church.
Make a note of the date for the next one the church will be doing – Friday 9th September, for ‘Ride & Stride’.
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/31676ed
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3161b8e
Membury Primary Academy Newsletter
Forward Thinking
Spaces limited – register your interest now to be sure of a place
News From Membury Thursday 5th May
The Beehive, Honiton Saturday 7th
If you missed Suthering as part of the From Devon With Love festival in Membury last autumn, or if you saw them but want more – Julu and Heg will be appearing at the Beehive on Saturday 7th along with The Last Inklings – a male duo who complement them perfectly. Suthering bring a fabulous combination of instruments and gorgeous vocal harmonies to their own songs. Here is the radio interview with Suthering should anyone like to listen to some of their music and there is a link on the Beehive website.
https://www.mixcloud.com/nigeltant/suthering-interviewed-by-nigel-tant-of-east-devon-radio/
Book your ticket here …
https://thebeehive.savoysystems.co.uk/TheBeehive.dll/TSelectItems.waSelectItemsPrompt.TcsWebMenuItem_1529.TcsWebTab_3773.TcsProgramme_812592
Oy! Big ‘Ead!
Do you need a brand new large size Kayak / canoe helmet?
Contribute a donation to Ukraine or Ferne Animal Sanctuary if you want it. Just pop a message to Ceri and Martyn. Dashfamily1962@gmail.com
News from Membury Wednesday 4th May
A very happy Star Wars Day to you all
Oak Apple Café
The regulars are handing over the reins to the church this Friday – please come and support them, unless you are off to Dartmouth with the Historians.
Here is their menu to tempt you …
- Tomato & carrot soup – veg
- Cheese & olive scone -veg
- Savoury flan – veg
- Sugar free blueberry muffins
- Chocolate cake
- Plain scones with butter or cream & jam option
- Coconut pyramids – gluten free
- Rhubarb crumble- gluten free
In addition, there will be a raffle for on Orange & Saffron sponge to take home for the weekend
Jubilee Bulletin no 20
Scarecrows. If anyone is putting up a scarecrow for the Jubilee weekend, please remember to let Sara know, so as to be able to inform the judges, so they know where to go & find the entries. It can be on any aspect of royalty, from a corgi to Guy Fawkes!!
Jubilee Bulletin no 21
Once again a correction from a nit-picking petrolhead …
Apparently to be classed as a post vintage thoroughbred a car needs to have been built before 1940 and be on the rather elitist Vintage Sports Car Club approved list. We will just be showing common-as-muck classic cars. Please feel free to bring your Austin Allegro, especially if it’s beige.
The Call of the Cuckoo
Tony Marsh heard a cuckoo from the woods East of Furley on Monday for the first time for several years. One of those defining sounds of spring.
News from Membury Sunday 1st May
Membury History Society
A few spaces have become available for the next Membury History Society outing to tour the Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth and Buckfast Abbey on Friday, May 6th. 2022
We have opted to travel by coach since entry to the College is, for security reasons much simpler if we go as a group rather than in individual cars. Please bring photographic evidence of your identity, such as Driving Licence, Passport, Senior Citizen bus pass etc.
The price of the coach ticket, guides and all entrance fees is £30.00 per person to be collected on the day.
The coach will leave from the Chestnut Tree Junction at the top of the village at 10.00 a.m.
We will visit Buckfast Abbey in the morning. Afterwards, you can purchase refreshments at The Grange Restaurant in the Abbey itself or you may prefer to bring your own lunch.
The tour of the Royal Naval College is scheduled for 14.00 hrs.
If you are interested please contact Jenny Beaman on 01404 881828
Jubilee Bulletin no 19
We have had a great response to our online survey and it looks like our villagers are ready for a celebration! If you haven’t already responded please do so ASAP for our planning purposes.
Plans are progressing…. A few hiccups along the way but that’s to be expected.
BBQ’s are sorted however we are still struggling to source small hay bales. I am still hopeful that one of my enquiries will come good. You will see a few more requests for other items over the next few weeks.
An update on car parking…….. we still hope to be able to use the field behind Bay Tree House, although this will be dependent on the weather, and we need some rain to help us out! The field is used for silage, and the grass just isn’t growing fast enough in these dry conditions. So please pray for rain now, but not over Jubilee weekend!
Our next planning meeting is after the Merrymakers AGM on May 11th so please come along if you are interested in learning more and/or helping.
I plan to be at the Oak Apple Cafe each Friday to discuss any Jubilee matters.
Sue Nicholson
Himalayan Balsam
It’s Bank Holiday and what could be nicer than a river walk? But we have been invaded! The Himalayan Balsam is just starting to show – photo is a good illustration of what it looks like now. Plants are about 2-6″ high at the moment, and have pink, succulent stems. HB is bad news as it out-competes and smothers our native wild plants, and is very shallow rooted so is easily swept away in a storm leaving bare soil which is then washed into the rivers causing silt and smothering fish and plant life. So if you see it, pull up the plants roots and all and leave on the path to dry and die. Sorry HB – you are public enemy No 1.
Chardstock Eco Group
Chardstock Gardening Club Plant Sale
Chardstock Eco Group will be at the Plant Sale on May 7th in the Community Hall at the kind invitation of the Gardening Club. We’ll be using this as an opportunity to showcase wildlife gardening and the benefits it brings for nature and human wellbeing. We’ll be encouraging people to go pesticide-bare and to combine gardening with reducing plastic waste. We’ll be promoting the Devon Wildlife Trust’s new Wildlife Gardening Award.
https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/take-action/garden-wildlife/wildlife-garden-award
We’d welcome you joining us on our stall at the Plant Sale on Saturday May 7th – or just come along to lend your support and buy some plants.
On the subject of pesticide-bare we were pleased to hear that both EDDC and Axminster Town Council have made public declarations that they are going pesticide-free. And just a reminder that we have stepped into No Mow May.
Axminster Repair Cafe
The next Repair Cafe is also on May 7th (Such a popular date. Remember those Covid lockdowns when there was nothing on?) in The Guildhall in Axminster. If you’re not coming to the Plant Sale why not take your broken household things along to get them repaired.
Exeter Energy from Waste Facility
One thing we learnt at Talking Rubbish is that none of East Devon’s waste goes to landfill. Anything that can’t be recycled goes to the Energy from Waste facility in Exeter. Here the material is incinerated and the energy is recovered and used to heat homes. If you would like to learn more about this we have organised a visit to the Energy from Waste facility in Exeter for Thursday, August 11th 10am-12 noon. There is no charge for the visit when we’ll be shown around by the experts and be able to see the facility working. You will need to get to Exeter under your own steam – although I’m sure we can co-ordinate car sharing. The maximum number for this visit is 20 so please let me know sooner rather than later if you’d like to come along.
Copse in a Box Grant
When we applied for this grant we mistakenly thought it was called Corpse in a Box which did seem somewhat surprising. But it turns out to be a copse in a box, and is a complete starter kit for setting up a tree nursery. And we have been lucky enough to be selected for one of these grants so a copse in a box is winging its way to Chardstock. But what are we going to do with it and what is a tree nursery? A tree nursery is a small plot of land where a community can raise tree and hedge saplings for later planting out in the parish. It often starts with gathering seeds, saplings and suckers growing wild so that the root stock is local and therefore better adapted to the area. Chardstock School has offered to host a tree nursery for the parish so that the children learn about trees and how to care for them. So our Copse in a Box will be heading over to the School. As this project develops we’ll keep you posted but if you’d particularly like to be involved please let me know.
The P-Word
Wednesday May 18th evening Chardstock Eco Group is co-hosting a talk at Kilmington Baptist Hall alongside Plastic-Free, Axminster on the theme The P Word … plastic, pollution, phosphates, pee and poo.
Big Plastic Count: May 16-22
The national Big Plastic Count takes place May 16-22. During this week participants count and record every item of plastic waste in their household so that a picture of the amount of plastic going to waste can be built up. If you’d like to participate the details are here … https://thebigplasticcount.com/sign-up/digital
What’s On in Membury
Week commencing May 2nd
Bank Holiday Monday May 2nd
Tuesday May 3rd
Wednesday May 4th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday May 5th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday May 6th
History Society Trip to Dartmouth
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall – raising money for the Church – 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday May 7th
Sunday May 8th
Week commencing May 9th
Monday May 9th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Tuesday May 10th
Moviola in the Village Hall 7pm for 7:30pm
West Side Story
Wednesday May11 th
MerryMakers AGM in the Village Hall at 7pm
Cheese and wine from 6:30pm
Jubilee Planning Meeting to follow at approx. 7:30pm
Thursday May 12th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday May 13th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday May 14th
Sunday May 15th
Holy Communion in Membury Church at 11am
News from Membury Friday 29th April
Membury Mercury
Here’s a message from the Mercury Editorial team.
Just a week to go until the deadline, and still waiting for memories of the 50s (not to mention recipes, and most of the usual contributions) to come flooding in. Time is short, so please get to your computers or A4 and pen ASAP, so that the Summer issue can come out on time.
Mercury address is mbrymcry@gmail.com or contributions can be left in the mail box outside the Village Hall. Our Phone number is 01404 881291.
We need to hear from you!
Airband Superfast Internet
One of our residents who lives in the vicinity of Beckford Bridge has sent me the following message they have just received from Airband.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to keep you informed of the progress of the build in your area, we have an update for you.
We have started designing our fibre route in your area. This process takes 5 phases- an overview design document, a round of on site surveys, a more detailed design document, a second route of on site surveys, and then creating instructions for engineers and buying equipment.
We are working on our detailed design document at the moment, and are expecting to complete this in May.”
Don’t hold your breath …
East Devon District Council Residents’ Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3154617
Devon County Council Update
Watch out for ticks carrying Lyme disease
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/315544c
Membury Fruit, Flower, Vegetable and Produce Show
The entry form is attached. There’ll be a stack of printed ones up at the hall shortly.
A Bit of a Rubbish Day Out
Chardstock Eco Group are organising a visit to the Exeter Energy from Waste Recovery Facility (ERF).
This has been operational since July 2014. It operates under a partnership with Devon County Council and safely diverts about 60,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste away from landfill from households within Exeter and the surrounding area each year to create valuable low carbon energy. Energy produced by the waste treatment process is used to operate the facility and the excess electricity is fed into the National Grid. In total, the facility produces 24GWh of electricity and exports enough energy to supply around 6,624 homes. Exeter ERF also has the potential to run an additional district heating scheme giving further benefit to the local economy. The facility also includes an education room to enable local schools and community groups to view the recovery process and understand more about recycling and energy recovery.
This is where the East Devon non-recyclable waste goes to be incinerated and the energy recovered. The visit lasts a couple of hours 10-12. It is likely to be in July or August. Please let me know if you might be interested so we have an idea of numbers.
Membury Church
There is a communion service at Membury Church on May 1st at 11:00
Membury Academy Newsletter
Moviola
You will be pleased to hear that for the interval in West Side Story on May 10th, we’ve had a delivery of Baboo ice cream – so we’ll be back up to all the usual flavours – and a bargain at £1.50 each.
Double Chocolate
Vanilla
Maple Walnut
Rum and Raisin
Salted Caramel
Strawberry
Coffee
Mint Choc Chip
Blackcurrant sorbet
Passionfruit Sorbet
Vegan Chocolate
Vegan Vanilla
Venus and Jupiter
Venus and Jupiter — the two brightest planets in the sky — are headed for a close encounter tomorrow (April 30).
The planetary meet up, also known as a conjunction, brings Venus and Jupiter within just one-half degree of each other, which is equal to the apparent width of the moon. This is the closest Venus and Jupiter have appeared since August 2016. The next time the two planets will appear to cosy up to each other will be March 1, 2023.
The planets’ closest approach will take place at 19:00 GMT), according to EarthSky.org. However, skywatchers will have the best view of the conjunction beginning in the early morning, before the glare of the sun outshines the planets. The planets will appear close to each other for several days around April 30.
News from Membury Thursday 28th April
Oak Apple Café
Terry, Penny and Allan are looking forward to welcoming you to the café tomorrow at the Village Hall between 1:30 and 3:30.
On the menu will be …
- Sweet corn chowder (vegan) with crusty bread
- Sausage rolls
- Red pepper quiche (V)
- Gluten free chocolate cake
- Orange and gooseberry traybake
- Lemon and white chocolate slice
- Tea Brack (dairy free)
Don’t forget that The Terrace will be open if you want to sit outside!
k Apple Café
Terry, Penny and Allan are looking forward to welcoming you to the café tomorrow at the Village Hall between 1:30 and 3:30.
On the menu will be …
Sweet corn chowder (vegan) with crusty bread
Sausage rolls
Red pepper quiche (V)
Gluten free chocolate cake
Orange and gooseberry traybake
Lemon and white chocolate slice
Tea Brack (dairy free)
Don’t forget that The Terrace will be open if you want to sit outside!
Pretty Muddy!
Sam Dare, formerly of this parish writes:
The mud has returned! so I’m doing another Race for Life Pretty Muddy at Exeter on 18th June to raise money for Cancer Research.
If you would like to sponsor me please follow the link to my Just Giving page.
Samantha’s Race for Life | Cancer Research UK Giving Pages
Moviola
Contrary to what you may have heard, Moviola on Tuesday 10th will be West Side Story directed by Steven Spielberg. It’s a long film (2hours 36 minutes) but very well reviewed. Ariana DeBose won the Oscar for Best Performance by an actress in a Supporting Role. A film not to be missed!
Down to Earth
The Plant Swap and Seed swap are both back in business at Haccombe – come along and help yourself, and please leave any surplus plants and seeds you have.
Early Purple Orchids
A fantastic display of these beautiful flowers at Hasland this year with over 75 throughout their orchard. Contact Sue Nicholson if you want to go and see them suenicholson1960@me.com
Membury Flower, Fruit, Vegetable and Produce Show
Are you ready for a triumphant return of the Show on July 30th?
Drop me a message if you want an electronic schedule. If you want a printed copy, there will be some at the village hall in a day or two, or if you let me know I’ll make sure one of us drops one round to you shortly. The entry form will follow.
Special Constable Recruitment
Special Constables, our volunteer police officers, get a real feeling of achievement from helping others while supporting regular officers and contributing to the local community.
They give a minimum 16 hours of their time each month, have the same powers as Police Officers; and undergo dedicated training and development.
We are currently open for recruitment, which closes on Sunday 29 May 2022.
We also hold virtual awareness events throughout the campaign, why not come along and learn more about the role.
For more information or to sign up to an awareness event, please visit the link below.
Visit our website – Special Constable – Information and Apply
Jubilee Bulletin No 18
Just to confirm that the next Jubilee planning meeting will take place on Wednesday May 11th in the village hall. Start time is approximately 7:30pm. The meeting will start following the conclusion of the MerryMakers AGM (7pm start – refreshments from 6:30)
The MerryMakers were hoping that maybe some of you who are helping with the Jubilee might be encouraged to join our committee.
We are making good progress with plans, thanks to everyone’s efforts. I look forward to updating you all.
Sue Nicholson suenicholson1960@me.com
Techie Stuff
All the audio-visual kit has now been installed in the village hall and is in use. This will allow connection from three separate video sources at the same time (the blu-ray player in the cupboard and up to two computers or similar pieces of equipment – one near the screen and one near the equipment cupboard), the CD / tape player, any bluetooth device (such as a phone), a radio mike and a wall mike. There is a small monitor screen in the cupboard as well. The user manual has been written and we are hoping to set up a training session which will last about an hour for anyone who may be involved in using the equipment. No date for this has been set yet, but if you think this will be of interest to you, please drop me a message. The more, the merrier!
News from Membury Tuesday 26th April
Oops!
- There is no service at Membury Church on May 8th
- The message sent out yesterday claimed to be due to be sent on 25th This was clearly not true.
- To be vintage, a car needs to be pre-1930 – so most of our cars at the Jubilee show will be post-vintage thoroughbreds
Trampoline
Hannah de Bruin has a small 6ft trampoline to give away if anyone in the village is interested. Contact her via hannahphysio19@gmail.com
Ringing for Refugees
As Andy Jarvis and the Reverend Nicky Davies have organised the following event this Saturday at Uplyme church, we have had lots of interest with numerous bands of ringers across Devon coming together to do our bit for the “refugees of Ukraine”.
From our parish many thanks go to Bill Steer for his coordination and assistance in the organisation too.
If you require any further information please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Mark Shepherd shepherd-c1@sky.com .
The Duke of Burgundy
Apparently, the last time this butterfly was recorded in Devon was in the nineteenth century – so keep a look out!
At the Beehive
Changes to Avian Flu Restrictions
Poultry and other captive birds can be let outside from 2nd May 2022 unless you are within a 3 km Protection Zone. But there are some vital preparations you must make before you let your birds out. See our press notice for full details https://www.gov.uk/government/news/bird-flu-latest-situation-avian-influenza-prevention-zone-declared-across-great-britain
You can check if you fall within a 3 km Protection Zone by visiting our interactive map and entering your postcode. https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d
If you fall within a 3 km Protection Zone birds must remain housed.
Although the requirement to house your birds is ending for most keepers, the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone remains in place. This means you must continue to practise strong biosecurity, as there is still a risk your birds could catch #BirdFlu. See our biosecurity guide https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1064069/biosecurity-poultry-guide.pdf
Sustainable Stockland – Tuesday 3rd May
The next meet up of our friendly bunch of Sustainable Stocklanders will be next Tuesday 3rd May at 7pm in the Kings Room at the Kings Arms.
If you have an interest in the local environment, taking action on climate issues or protecting Stockland’s beautiful natural surroundings, please do come along. All welcome.
Claire claireholgate@hotmail.co.uk 07771 786610
EDDC plastic free challenge and “how on Earth” webinars
As part of East Devon Together, which is our celebration of all things sustainable and local, we are running a “live plastic free challenge” during the week 6-12th June. Now living totally plastic-free is impossible but we want to raise awareness of the alternatives to as many people as possible. It might seem too hard and expensive, so to dispel some myths, we are running a series of webinars entitled “how on Earth” to help people with some hints and tips from local plastic-free expert Sarah Allen.
The webinars are .
10th May at 12pm
12th May at 7pm
24th May at 5.30pm
To book, please email environment@eastdevon.gov.uk and the zoom link will be sent
Cinechard
As part of the Culturally Chard Festival this weekend, Cinechard are screening Disney’s Encanto at the Guildhall in Chard at 3pm for 3:30pm on Saturday 30th. Come and see the latest Disney blockbuster on the big screen – entry is free to everyone, but this is expected to be very popular so you might want to get there a bit early.
News from Membury Monday 25th April – Jubilee Special
Jubilee Bulletin no 17
Membury Celebrates Queens Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee June 2nd-June 5th, 2022
Thursday June 2nd
We are planning to open our celebrations by participating in the national community beacon lighting. Our beacon will be lit on Membury Castle, with fireworks to follow.
For everyone’s safety only the organisers will be permitted at the beacon and public viewing will be from the village car park and churchyard. This approach worked well at the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.
We are planning a pop-up bar and barbeque at the village hall, and the church bells will welcome everyone along to view the beacon. Light up time is scheduled (currently) at 9:45pm.
Friday June 3rd
We will continue our celebrations with a special Oak Apple Café and Vintage Car Display during Friday afternoon.
The café will be 1950’s themed and fancy dress will be optional! Jenny and her band of bakers will be working hard to recreate some interesting recipes and the car park will be full of vintage cars.
The History Society are planning to have a Queen Elizabeth II exhibition in the committee room in the village hall (available to view all weekend). And we plan to show the Queen’s Coronation on a 1950s TV!
Saturday June 4th
We plan to livestream the Platinum Jubilee concert in the village hall. Come and celebrate with friends at the pop-up pub.
Sunday June 5th
Our BIG event will be our street party on Sunday June 5th 2-5:30pm – well actually our ‘car park’ party! Whatever the venue it will be lovely to gather in the June sunshine and socialise with friends and family.
We will set up tables and chairs in the hall carpark. This will be a Bring Your Own food event and we encourage you to bring along picnic food for yourselves, and maybe some to share. Cakes will be VERY welcome.
We will also have use of Rachel and Phil Pearse’s field 200m south of the car park (entrance opposite the Folly). This would be a good area for the more energetic to let off steam, or to sit on picnic rugs and enjoy the scenery.
The pop-up bar will run in the village hall, and hopefully we won’t have run out of beer by then. We are hoping to have games, face painting, and music!
And there’s more……..a red, white, and blue fancy dress competition, and a” Jubilee Queen for the Day” – more details to follow on how to nominate. Does anyone have a throne we can borrow?
And finally, we will close out our celebrations with Jubilee Praise at 6pm in the Church. After the bells have welcomed us to church the Raucous Chorus will be singing as we celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s reign.
For the entire weekend car parking will be available in the field behind Bay Tree House (Old Post Office). Those of you who normally park at the hall please can you use the field or find an alternative for the Jubilee weekend.
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We kindly request that you try to avoid having any deliveries on Sunday 5th Jun. If you can defer any grocery/amazon deliveries until Monday 6th that will limit road usage for the duration of our party.
Wet weather plan: Village Hall! We will decide on the morning of the 5th if we need to move everything to the hall.
Red, white, and blue decorations are encouraged throughout the village. And don’t forget your royal scarecrows!
Thinking of coming along? Please respond to the survey! (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7JSDZP8).
Suzie will be out and about with her camera. If you would prefer not to have your photograph taken, then please let us/her know.
News from Membury Sunday 24th April
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing April 25th
Monday April 25th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday April 26th
Wednesday April 27th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 28th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 29th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 30th
Sunday May 1st
Holy Communion in Membury Church at 11am
Week commencing May 2nd
Bank Holiday Monday May 2nd
Tuesday May 3rd
Wednesday May 4th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday May 5th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday May 6th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday May 7th
Sunday May 8th
Morning Prayer in Membury Church at 11am
Bird News
Marilyn Burrough heard her first cuckoo of the season yesterday morning between Thorn Farm and Bewley Farm yesterday morning
Butterfly News
Miranda from Yarcombe was excited to see a Duke of Burgundy butterfly (Hamearis Lucina) in her garden a few days ago. She was unable to capture a picture of it, but hopes to see it again. This is possibly the rarest butterfly in Britain, and as far as I can tell has never been seen in Devon before, although there is a small colony in Dorset.
This small butterfly with a wingspan of just over an inch frequents scrubby grassland and sunny woodland clearings, typically in very low numbers. The adults rarely visit flowers and most sightings are of the territorial males as they perch on a prominent leaf at the edge of scrub. The females are elusive and spend much of their time resting or flying low to the ground looking for suitable egg-laying sites.
Vegetation News 1
Someone has placed a small wheeled barrow filled with beautiful plants by the telegraph pole adjacent to Clarence Cross. Thank you, whoever did this – it looks lovely and it brightens up the village!
Vegetation News 2
The bluebells and wild garlic over at Yarty Copse are looking spectacular at the moment. It’s quite dry and well worth a visit.
Thank you from Richard Challis
Thanks to everyone for keeping the carpark clear.
We had a lovely service in the church and the Hall was perfect for afterwards. Very lucky to live where we do.
Thanks again.
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3146ffc
News from Membury Friday 22nd April
Jubilee Bulletin No 15
It would be appreciated if you could complete the Jubilee survey by next week if possible to give us an idea of numbers. It doesn’t need to be spot on, but it would be good if you could give us an approximate idea of numbers
It should take no more than 2 minutes.
Here is the survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7JSDZP8
Thank you so much for all of your support
Membury Merrymakers AGM
Membury MerryMakers will be holding their Annual General Meeting in the village hall on Wednesday May 11th, preceded by cheese and wine, and followed by the Jubilee planning meeting.
We invite you to come along to hear what the MerryMakers have been up to in the last year, and to help shape our plans for the next year. Our key role is to raise money to fund the Membury Mercury magazine, by providing entertainment for villagers.
This year we will be losing 2 of our already small committee. Jill Bellamy will be stepping down as chair, and leaving the committee. Janet Andrew will also be resigning from the committee. Both Jill and Janet have contributed much to our community, and we thank them for their hard work.
So down to 5 we are in search of new members and new ideas! We need your help! The more the merrier!
- Cheese and wine from 6:30pm
- AGM at 7pm
- Jubilee Meeting around 7:30pm
Anyone interested in joining the MerryMakers committee please let Sue Nicholson (secretary) know. Suenicholson1960@me.com
Sue Nicholson, Daniel Lazar, Jenny Beaman, Rose Shepherd, Patrick White
Jubilee Bulletin No 16
Appeal to the over-70s from the MERCURY editorial team.
There are quite a number of us in Membury – over-70s, that is; if you are 70, you must have been born in 1952, when the Queen acceded to the throne. Most of your memories of the 1950s will be childhood ones, many will not be local, but they can still reflect the decade more vividly than cold historical facts. Our centre feature for the June issue is intended to be based on these memories (see p18 of the Spring issue) but the deadline is just 2 weeks away (May 6th) and, so far, we have received only one response. Many of the memories will be shared, so the contributors will not be named. We included the following list to jog your memory, and you may only be able to answer some of them, but that’s fine. Come on, Membury! This is your magazine, and we need your contributions to bring the 50s back to life. Drop us a note, on paper to the Village Hall mailbox, or by e-mail to the Mercury address. Otherwise, you can ‘phone us on 01404 881291. Oh – and don’t forget the recipe page!
- What sort of house did you live in?
- How was it heated?
- Did you have a bathroom / an inside loo?
- Did you have a ‘fridge – a family car – a telephone?
- Where/how did your family shop?
- What sort of school did you attend?
- What was school life like then?
- Did you have a television?
- Did you see the Coronation ceremony?
- Do you remember how you felt, at the time?
- What were you doing on Coronation Day?
- Did you go to a street party, or some other community celebration?
Flower and Produce Show
The Flower and Produce Show return on 30th July this year at the Village Hall – so please save the date and get sowing, sewing and possibly jamming!
The categories for Art this year will be as follows
- “Black and White” in any medium
- “Garden Pots” in watercolour
- “Original Picture” in any medium
The Categories for photography will be
- “Reflections”
- “The long and the short of it”
East Devon District Council Update
Virtual parking permits £10 per month for locals from Monday!
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3130629
Mike Capper vs DCC
Neil Parish MP has written to DCC on behalf of Mike Capper with regard to the disallowed road closure. Watch this space …
Plasterer needed
Can anyone recommend a good plasterer with reasonable availability?
100 Club results
The results for April are in …
Richard and Felicity Challis £30
Allan Gyngell £10
Joseph Pearse £10
It’s Not Just in Membury …
A car transporter carrying 9 cars has become stuck on a narrow country lane near Wellington. One of the cars has sustained damage from the tree
Membury Mercury Advertisements April 2022
All the good people listed here help pay the costs of the Membury Mercury, delivered four times a year. Just as they support us, please consider supporting them.
News from Membury Tuesday 19th April
Car Park Request 1
Edward Challis is being christened on Saturday 23rd and your cooperation in keeping the car park free from 10:30 would be much appreciated. It is anticipated that most people will be gone by 14:00.
Car Park Request 2
Following the sudden death of Mr James (Jim) Grabham of Cranborne Farm, Churchill, there will be a Thanksgiving Service held on Friday 29th April 2022 at 2:30pm in Membury Church. Family flowers only please. Donations can be made to Devon Air Ambulance or Exeter Hospice at the service if you wish.
Jubilee Bulletin No 14
As you know, the village is working really hard to ensure that we have a Platinum Jubilee to remember.
In order to aid our planning, we would be most grateful if you could please complete this survey so that we can establish an idea of how many people may be attending our village events. It should take no more than 2 minutes.
Here is the survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7JSDZP8
Thank you so much for all of your support
Avian Influenza
From DEFRA:
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed on 7 April 2022 in poultry at premises near Ilminster, South Somerset, Somerset. All birds on the infected premises have been humanely culled. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been put in place around the premises.
Seaton Music Concert
Thursday 21st April 19:30 at the Gateway, Seaton
Leon McCawley plays Haydn, Mozart and Schubert.
“One of today’s most impeccably musical pianists”
For tickets: http://www.seatonmusic.org/ticket21.html
No Dig Gardening at the Yarty Gardening Club
Thursday 21st April at Otterford Parish Hall, Bishopswood at 7.30pm
At our April meeting, we are delighted to be hosting the world-renowned gardener Charles Dowding who is coming to talk to us about No Dig Gardening. He is also well versed in the practices of Biodynamic gardening. Charles started growing vegetables in 1981, created 4 no dig market gardens on different soils: stony, silt, white and ordinary clay. Currently he grows salad leaves and vegetables near Shepton Mallet for sale locally. He has also written books and articles for national gardening magazines, and regular uploads of videos to his You Tube channel. During lockdown Charles became a surprise sensation, attracting 30,000 new YouTube subscribers and more than two million views of his videos in the space of three weeks. He is a busy man also giving talks and courses at home and abroad, so we are really pleased that he has agreed to come and talk to us.
If you would like to hear Charles, he will be speaking on . We expect this will be a well-attended meeting which is free to members of the club. If you have not yet joined the club you are of course welcome to become a member. However, if you would just like to come to this meeting there are tickets available for £5. You can reserve a ticket and pick it up from 7pm at the door.
Please email kaye@kayeantonelli.com or paulinebartlett@btinternet.com to book your ticket.
Talking Rubbish in Chardstock
Saturday, April 23rd 10:00 – 12:00
Chardstock Community Hall
A social morning, all welcome
Come and chew over plastic … mini-repair café … stalls … quiz … learn how to make beeswax food wraps … tips on how to reduce waste … free seeds … laugh and chat … free tea, coffee and cake.
Chardstock Eco Group
Yarcombe Big Breakfast
Axminster Guildhall Quiz
What’s on the Beehive, Honiton
Thu 21st 19:00 – NT Live: Henry V
Sat 23rd 20:00 – Noble Jacks + Support
Thu 28th 14:00 – Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
Sat 30th – Concert for Ukraine
News from Membury 17th April 2022
Jubilee Bulletin no 13
It’s all coming together …
Do you have a large BBQ that can be used during the village’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations?
We’d love some hay bales to use at the Jubilee Street Party. Do you have any we can borrow?
Please contact Sue if you can help with either request – suenicholson1960@me.com
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing April 18th
Monday April 18th
Tuesday April 19th
Wednesday April 20th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 21st
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 22nd
Post Office in the Village Hall 103pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 23rd
Sunday April 24th
Week commencing April 25th
Monday April 25th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday April 26th
Wednesday April 27th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 28th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 29th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 30th
Sunday May 1st
Membury Church Communion Service 11am
News from Membury 15th April 2022
Some good news, and some bad news
The Good News
The Fish and Chips is ON, so if you’ve ordered, please turn up a little after 6:00pm to pick them up. The pop-up pub will not, however, be running.
The Bad News
I’ve had a report that the oil beetle didn’t make it across the road – now he’s more of a slick than a beetle.
Don’t Forget
That neither the café, nor the Post Office will be operating tomorrow.
Eggs
Sandra has a lot of eggs at the moment, so if you are one of her regulars and you want more just let her know. She is also expanding her delivery round to Rock, Tolcis, Furley and anyone else reasonably local. Contact her via boomembury@outlook.com or 07921 451580
Wellbeing Workshops
Ever fancied learning more about photography? Tai Chi? Maybe learning how to maximise your wellbeing at work? Join our FREE online workshops beginning after Easter …
Wellbeing and resilience are at the heart of Devon’s ability to survive, recover and thrive. If we look after ourselves and our teams we can all reap the personal and professional benefits.
Wellbeing Works is an exciting opportunity for Devon based individuals, businesses and employees to benefit from the tools, techniques and inspiration we need to prioritise and develop our wellbeing and resilience during the pandemic recovery period.
If you are Devon based and over 18 you may be able to access a free 1:1 wellbeing check-in and attend free wellbeing workshops.
Our Boost workshops are short, welcoming, fun workshops – a chance to focus on yourself, meet some local experts and learn new techniques!
PHOTOGRAPHY FOR WELLBEING
Join us for this ‘photography for wellbeing workshop’ featuring photographer & wellbeing educator Vanessa Miles from Well Image.
BOOK HERE 29TH APRIL 10AM-12PM
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR WELLBEING WORKSHOP
Join us for this ‘physical activity for wellbeing workshop’ featuring physical activity expert Anita Griggs from Vista Wellbeing.
BOOK HERE 4TH MAY 11AM-1PM
We’ve also got Doodling, The Power of Routine and Tai Chi, Qigong and Meditation coming up soon!
View all our Boost workshops here
An Eponymous Tit
From Tony Marsh
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3130627
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3133745
News from Membury 14th April 2022 ** Fish and Chips Special **
We have had very few takers so far for the fish and Chips on Saturday at the Village Hall. Unless we can attract at least 30 people we will be forced to cancel. Please let Jill know by tomorrow (Friday) 3pm if you would like to order. You can reach her on 01404 881641, 07710 849984 or jill-folletts@outlook.com
News from Membury 13th April 2022
Errors and Omissions
The more astute of you may have noticed that I recently advertised fish and chips on two adjacent Saturdays. Alas this is not to be – fish and chips are available this Saturday only, and not on the 23rd.
I was heartily castigated by one of our more peripheral parishioners for describing this as Easter Week.
“Just being pedantic, (sorry, I can’t help it!) but this isn’t Easter Week as you say in your email – this is Holy Week, ending this Saturday which is Holy Saturday. Then we have Easter Day, Easter Monday and the rest of Easter Week next week.”
Membury Church
There is a good Friday service at Membury Church on April 15th at 12 noon. “An Hour at the Cross”
Easter in Stockland
At the Beehive, Honiton
Royal Opera screening: La Traviata
Thu 14 April 6.45pm (12A)
Adult £17, Student £11
Sung in Italian with English subtitles. Directed by Richard Eyre.
In a glamorous and superficial society, a courtesan sacrifices all for love. Courtesan Violetta (Pretty Yende) sings some of Verdi’s most acclaimed arias including the joyous ‘Sempre Libera’, in her poignant and passionate encounters with Alfredo and Germont.
Oil beetles
There are a lot of oil beetles around at the moment. Oil beetles are conspicuous, charismatic beetles that are so-called because they exude a yellowish oily substance from their leg joints when threatened. Oil beetles have an extraordinary life-cycle that is intricately linked to that of solitary bees. After hatching, oil beetle larvae (known as triungulins) make their way onto a flower head where they lie in wait for a solitary bee. Using specialised hooks on their feet, they attach themselves to the back of a visiting solitary bee female and when the bee returns to its underground nest, the triungulin disembarks and continues its development underground, eating through the bee’s stores of pollen and nectar. The following year, it emerges as an adult oil beetle ready to start the life-cycle all over again.
The National Oil Beetle Recording Scheme collates records for oil beetles and allies in the family Meloidae, of which there are 11 UK species. The scheme was established in February 2021 and is organised by Liam Olds.
If you have seen an oil beetle, please add your record to iRecord (with a photo if at all possible), or contact the scheme to send it in direct.
This particular oil beetle was crossing the road just up from the village hall.
Open Gardens
Once again private gardens are opening up to raise money for Hospiscare. A total of 45 gardens in Exeter, Mid and East Devon will be inviting people in, some for a small admission charge, others in exchange for a donation of the visitor’s choice to the charity.
To see the full selection of gardens, along with their opening dates and details, visit Hospiscare’s website to download a booklet. The booklet can also be collected from garden centres and tourist information centres, or ordered by calling 01392 688020.
Wild East Devon News
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3133559
Carpet Fitter
We’ve just had new hall, stairs and landing carpet fitted by Martin Richards 07540375130 martinrichards64@gmail.com. He was very efficient, turned up promptly, didn’t stop for lunch and did an excellent job. Highly recommended. We bought the new carpet from Wells (by the level crossing in Axminster) who were also a pleasure to deal with. Also highly recommended.
New Freezer
The new freezer has arrived at the village hall, and will be commissioned tomorrow when it’s settled. Let’s hope it’ll be quieter than the old one. This has been funded by a Reconnect Rebuild Recover grant from Devon County Council.
Recovered Vehicle
One of the many petrol-heads of Membury has made a discovery …
If a young Captain America in Stockland or Membury has mislaid his or her car, it was found locally on Monday, abandoned but in perfect running condition. Please contact me if you know the driver …
Who knew it?
Apparently, we are now local to Cornwall!
If you have an EX postcode, you can get a “locals” pass to the Eden Project for £16 valid to the end of March 2023 – this is less than half the price of a normal adult admission which is also valid for a year. Visit https://www.edenproject.com/visit/book-tickets/eden-project-locals-pass for more details
Wildlife Garden Award
Calling all wildlife gardening enthusiasts … how about getting the Wildlife Gardening Award from Devon Wildlife Trust? It’s dead simple to do. There’s a list of wildlife-friendly things to do in your garden, and all you have to do is send photos and a few words about your garden to DWT. Come on Membury! Shall we see how many gardens we can get involved and awarded for the amazing things we do for wildlife?
https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/take-action/garden-wildlife/wildlife-garden-award
Talking Rubbish Coffee Morning
Saturday, April 23rd 10am – Noon
Chardstock Community Hall
A social morning, all welcome
Come and chew over plastic … mini-repair café … stalls … quiz … learn how to make beeswax food wraps … tips on how to reduce waste … free seeds … laugh and chat … free tea, coffee and cake
News from Membury 10th April 2022
A very Early Swallow
Patrick spotted two very early swallows on the way back from Yarcombe yesterday. Can anyone beat this?
Road Traffic Incident in Chardstock
A burgundy Land Rover parked inside the 30mph speed limit – just down from The George Inn, Chardstock – was hit and badly damaged on Friday, April 8th at around 9pm by a blue Skoda Fabia (the head lamp was left behind). The driver did not stop. The Land Rover has had to be written off so the impact was significant, and the Skoda must have been badly damaged. Witnesses/information is being sought.
Not So Suspicious vehicle
Apparently, Mr Barr has been offering tarmac in the area for many years and has even done some work for an ex-parishioner – so is probably harmless
Jubilee Bulletin No 12
Tomorrow night sees the postponed Jubilee Planning Meeting at the Village Hall at 7pm. Were you involved in planning the last Jubilee party here? Please come along and lend us your wisdom!
Moviola
King Richard is showing at the Village Hall on Tuesday night at 7pm for 7:30. It’s 2 hours 20 minutes long, and I’m told that even if you don’t follow tennis it’s a terrific film. The film will be screened by the deputy-sub-under projectionist since Richard is still unwell, so wish me luck.
Let’s hope that Richard and Molly both make swift recoveries from their bouts of COVID.
Happy Easter
It’s Easter week, so the toddler group will not be running at the school on Tuesday, and both the Oak Apple Café and the travelling Post Office will be closed on Good Friday
Fish and Chips
Not everything is closed for the Easter weekend. Fish and Chips at the new price of £7 will be available from 6pm on Saturday 16th from the van in the car park. Place your order with Jill 01404 881641 or jill-folletts@outlook.com
Membury Church
Membury Church remembers loved ones by having a lily flower in their name for Easter. Anyone who would like to remember please contact Debbie Burrough 01404881479 or by email debbieburrough@aol.com. A list of names will be put up in church
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing April 11th
Monday April 11th
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Merrymakers Jubilee Planning Meeting 7:00pm
Tuesday April 12th
Moviola in the Village Hall 7.00pm for 7:30 King Richard
Wednesday April 13th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 14th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 15th
Saturday April 16th
Fish and Chips, Village Hall car park 6pm – 7pm
Pop-up pub at the Village Hall from 6pm.
Sunday April 17th
Easter Sunday Holy Communion at Membury Church 11am
Week commencing April 18th
Monday April 18th
Tuesday April 19th
Wednesday April 20th
Short Mat Bowls AGM in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 21st
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 22nd
Post Office in the Village Hall 1 – 3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 23rd
Fish and Chips 6-7pm Village Hall Car Park
Pop Up pub in the Village Hall from 6pm
Sunday April 24th
News from Membury 8th April 2022
You will be pleased to hear that the distressed dog reported as loose earlier was swiftly reunited with his owner
Remote Access Scams
More than £50 million was lost last year to scams where victims are tricked into handing over control of their computer or smartphone to criminals.
New data from Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, reveals that 20,144 people fell victim to scams where they were persuaded to grant criminals remote access to their device. Victims reported losing a total of £57,790,384 – an average loss of £2,868 per victim.
Remote Access scams will often begin with a browser pop-up saying that your computer is infected with a virus, or maybe a call from someone claiming to be from your bank saying that they need to connect to your computer in order to cancel a fraudulent transaction on your account. Regardless of the narrative the fraudster’s use, their goal is to steal your money or access your financial information by tricking you into allowing them to remotely connect to your computer.
Commercial and domestic fuel thefts
Fuel theft has increased recently (£30,000 was stolen from Launceston), and as the price is so high, it is likely that the situation will only get worse.
If you have a fuel tank – either domestic, agricultural or commercial – please review its security. Is it locked/alarmed? Is there security lighting/CCTV?
Offenders will often use curtain sided vehicles or commercial vans to carry large containers for these offences. If you see these types of vehicles acting suspiciously, especially under cover of darkness, please report it to the police including as much detail of those involved as possible.
Measures to consider for vehicles:
- Keep vehicles in a secure area, preferably a garage, shed or outbuildings, wherever possible.
- Do not leave keys in or near a vehicle where they can be easily found.
- Consider the use of locking fuel caps.
- Re-fuel vehicles just before the planned journey rather than leaving a vehicle fully fuelled overnight.
- Use defensive parking techniques, wherever possible park vehicles against solid objects on the fuel tank side to prevent access
For Storage Tanks:
- Fit anti-siphoning devices.
- Install or confirm existing CCTV is fit for purpose and train a camera on tanks and vulnerable vehicles.
- Consider using ‘bunded’ fuel tanks if your existing storage facility is not of that type.
- Remove portable storage from site (barrel and drums etc) or make them secure.
- Consider installing fuel cap alarms – wireless transmitters can be placed inside the screw cap of the fuel tank. A magnetic switch on the device sets off an alarm if the cap is opened or tampered with.
A villager writes:
Our insurance for buildings and contents has come up for renewal.
No one will quote for listed building. Our Broker has tried only one Liverpool Victoria which is absolutely extortionate eye watering.
If anyone with listed building is able to make suggestions would be appreciated
Please contact me with any suggestions and I’ll pass them on.
Bin Collections
If your normal day for bin collections is Monday, please note that the collection on the 18th (Easter Monday) will be replaced by a collection the following day – Tuesday 19th.
Thank you Membury
From Yvette at Ninth Wave Global
I just wanted to say a big thank you to all the people of Membury who visited my Grandmother’s garden (that’s Sandra Capper) at East Membury Farm to see her snowdrops and for the donation from that and from the Oak Apple Café towards the work we do here in Mexico, this donation will be very useful for our projects we run here in educating the community of Campeche about environmental protection in a multi-faceted way! It is always so comforting to know that wonderful people all over the world support the work we do and how even a little can go a long way in this line of work.
Thank you again for the support, and I wish all the people of Membury the very best.
Open Gardens in Axminster
Hospiscare Open Gardens in Axminster this weekend – Please pop along and support to down load our brochure or find out more visit here http://ow.ly/xtaO50IC3hA
Phosphates in the Axe
Useful article here, published today. https://www.midweekherald.co.uk/news/river-axe-to-be-halted-8869584
Devon County Council Update
Welcoming Ukrainian refugees to Devon; free wellbeing support to help with Devon’s COVID-19 recovery and more on who is eligible for Spring boosters. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3123263
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/31213bd
Another Suspicious vehicle
L11BAR Mitsubishi L200 has been offering “left over tarmac” in the area. It has been seen in both Yarcombe and Stockland, and the police have been made aware.
Membury Primary Academy
The children would like to thank the village for their generous donations at the café last week – they raised just over £80, and the children want to spend it on new pens and playground activity.
Here is their latest newsletter
News from Membury 7th April 2022
Oak Apple Café
After their phenomenal success a few weeks ago, Ana, our new Clerk to the Council, will once again be making custard tarts to delight us at the café tomorrow.
Here’s the full menu
- Leek, potato and wild garlic soup
- Sausage rolls
- Puff pastry tartlets (veggie)
- Courgette and lime traybake
- Hasty Victoria sponge
- Date and walnut cake (gluten free)
- Pastel de nata
Don’t forget – the café is open from 1:30pm – 3:30pm, and if the weather is good The Terrace will be in use!
Mobile Library
The mobile library will be visiting us a week early because of the Easter break. Pick up your books at Gowan Brae from 13:10 – 13:40, or from the Village Hall car park from 13:50 – 14:30
Membury Annual Parish Meeting
The Annual Parish Meeting took place in the Village Hall on Tuesday, with 9 electors present along with Parish Councillors, and both our District and County Councillors. Paul Hayward, our East Devon District Councillor, was able to give a little more detail on the issue of phosphates in the Axe catchment area, but the council is still trying to work out how to respond to the information from Natural England.
Stockland Book Club
The next meeting of the Stockland Book Club is on Saturday 9th April at 11am at the Kings Arms.
Do come along for a lively discussion on what we are all currently reading. All in the lovely environment of the Kings Room+ coffee and cakes! See you there.
For more information ring Paul Spencer on 01404 881819.
Stockland Church Easter Brunch
The Easter Brunch will be going ahead on Easter Monday, 18th April, from 10.00am – 12.00pm in the village hall. This will be followed by the walk organised by Rowena and Bryan Drew. The walk will start at 12.30pm from the village hall car park, and go towards Ham and will follow the recently repaired lane by the stream, before returning to the village hall.
The brunch will be a full breakfast with coffee or tea and fruit juice, toast and jam or marmalade. Adults: £8 and Children under 16: £4. If a full breakfast is not required then coffee tea and toast will be available for £2.50.
It would be appreciated if you could book in for breakfast with Nancy Patch on 01404 881675 or Rozanne Bulmer on 01404 41907 if possible, so that we have an idea of approximate numbers for catering. We should be able to cater for late arrivals then or extras without any problem.
For more information about the walk please contact Bryan or Rowena on 01404 881538.
We look forward to seeing you all there and catching up after a 2 year break.
Devon County Council
How to live safely with COVID-19
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/31203ae
Stockland Market
Landowners – Get Involved with Saving Devon’s Treescapes Project
https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/get-involved-saving-devons-treescapes-project-landowners
Queen’s Green Canopy
Plant trees for the Jubilee
https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/schools-and-communities/queens-green-canopy/
https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/trees-for-landowners-and-farmers/
Chardstock Eco Group
Jubilee Bulletin No 11
Mike Capper has written to our MP …
“Dear Mr Parish,
Membury and Stockland and I suspect many other villages in your constituency, made the mistake of applying to the local council to close a street to hold a Jubilee Street Party. We were told we could submit a full Temporary Traffic Regulation Notice (TTRN), but this is an onerous process involving notifications to emergency services, post office, local businesses etc. It also incurs costs both for the application, and for signs, and we are required to have public liability insurance with minimum cover of £5m. The required diversion would need to use roads suitable for HGVs. The current plan is to jam the event in the car park, which means the road will be blocked with cars! If emergency access is required it will be much easier and quicker, to move the street party rather than the cars.
Given that the road leads to nowhere, that this is supposed to be a national STREET PARTY on a Bank Holiday Sunday, when there is little chance of there being any traffic –particularly HGVs, this appears to be ‘jobs worth’ at its worst and against the spirit of the celebrations.
I would be grateful if you would prevail on the relevant authorities to ensure common sense rules are applied to street closures to allow the country to celebrate this unique Jubilee as is intended, with Street Parties.
Yours Sincerely Mike Capper”
And our MP has replied …
“Dear Mr Capper,
Thank you for your email.
I appreciate your concerns.
Please can you indicate I have your permission to contact East Devon District Council on your behalf?
Kind regards, Neil Parish MP”
Watch this space …
Suspicious Vehicle
A Suspicious vehicle DY12 HFZ dark blue cab light flatbed trailer has been seen in the local area – a young man looking for scrap cars. Please be aware of this, and if you have concerns contact the police on 101
Goose Eggs
Fresh goose eggs for sale at Chapplecroft Farm. £1 per egg – terrific in baking. Also, hens’ eggs too. Call Sarah Sadler 07446 234705
Yarcombe Village Market
Saturday 9th April 10:00 – 12:00 at Yarcombe Jubilee Hall
Fantastic Local Produce – pies, cakes, cheese, butter, milk, honey, eggs, plants, jams, woodwork, metalwork, pottery, cards, household and much more.
News from Membury 4th April 2022
Membury Annual Parish Meeting
The Annual Parish Meeting takes place tomorrow (Tuesday 5th) at 7:30pm in the Village Hall, which will be well ventilated. Please consider wearing a mask and testing before you come – COVID is currently quite widespread in the village. You are welcome to join us from 7pm for a glass of wine prior to the meeting.
Our last APM was held by Zoom last April, but Councillors are looking forward to welcoming you back into the hall.
This meeting is not a council meeting, but has been arranged by the Parish Council. It is an opportunity for all electors of the parish to speak on any matters of local interest
MEMBURY PARISH COUNCIL PUBLIC NOTICE
Mrs Ana Silson
2 Victoria Terrace
Dowell Street
Honiton
EX14 1LU
Tel: 07907965358
Email: clerk@membury.eastdevon.gov.uk
2022 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
Dear Parish Councillors and Members of the Public,
Councillors are summoned and members of the public are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of Membury Parish Council, to be held in the Membury Village Hall on Tuesday 5th April 2022 at 7:30pm to discuss the following matters:
AGENDA
- Welcome and introduction by Councillor/Chairman Debbie Burrough
- Apologies
- Approve minutes from the zoom meeting 4th May 2021 annual meeting
- Report from County Councillor Mr Iain Chubb
- Report from the District Councillor Mr Paul Hayward
- Chairman’s report Mrs Debbie Burrough
- Precept and Finance report
- Considerations of other reports
- Public Forum
- Chairman’s concluding remarks
Ana Silson, Clerk to the Council, April 2022
Sustainable Stockland
Unfortunately, due to Covid the meeting planned for tonight has been cancelled. It will be rescheduled for early May.
Oak Apple Café Donations
We had three nominations for donations submitted during April, and we plan to donate £100 to each of
- RNLI
- Westcountry Rivers Trust
- Ninth Wave Global
You are probably familiar with the first two of these, but the third needs some explanation. The Cappers’ granddaughter Yvette runs a project in Mexico “El Campanario Campeche” with environmental sustainability, community engagement and nature friendly farming at its core. If you would like to know more about this, there’ll be information about it at the café shortly. Money that Sandra raises from garden visits etc. also goes to this project.
A Brief Mention of Easter and a Blatant Plug
Our daughter works for Chocolarder in Cornwall.
Chocolarder is one of the only small batch bean-to-bar chocolate makers in the country. They produce fine quality, stone ground chocolate using organic beans imported from single estate, family run plantations in Colombia, Sierra Leone, Madagascar, Peru and the Dominican Republic. The select beans used at Chocolarder are roasted, winnowed and ground, refined and conched before being left to mature for at least 28 days. The chocolate is then tempered and made into bars before being lovingly wrapped in plastic free packaging. This obsessive attention to detail yields some of the finest chocolate in production today. Their range of Easter Eggs (including a great vegan one) has been featured in the press in lots of “best of” lists this year. Order this week if you want one in time. https://www.chocolarder.com/shop/
Cinechard – The French Dispatch (15)
Showing at Holyrood Academy in Chard Friday 8th at 7:30pm – tickets £6 on the door.
If you enjoyed “The Grand Budapest Hotel” or any other Wes Anderson film, you’ll appreciate the beauty of this, his latest, starring Timothée Chalamet, Tilda Swinton, Bill Murray, Adrien Brody, Benicio Del Toro, Owen Wilson and Frances McDormand.
Faced with the impending dissolution of The French Dispatch, a factual weekly report on various subjects, old-school editor-in-chief Arthur Howitzer Jr. assembles the crème de la crème of the magazine’s loyal expatriate journalists for one final issue. Against the backdrop of picturesque Ennui-sur-Blasé, Paris, France, three main articles unfold, pivoting around tormented genius artists, statuesque prison officers, flamboyant critics, moody idealists, conflicted ace reporters, legendary chefs, and, of course, the police
Membury Moviola – King Richard
We will be showing this Oscar winning film on Tuesday 12th (next week) in the Village Hall at 7pm for 7:30 – tickets £6 each as usual. We’ve tweaked the equipment and we hope that the sound quality will be better than it was for “Pig”. It goes without saying that for this show we’ll have bouncers on the door, just in case.
Armed with a clear vision and a brazen 78-page plan, Richard Williams is determined to write his daughters, Venus and Serena, into history. Training on Compton, California’s neglected tennis courts–rain or shine–the girls are shaped by their father’s unyielding commitment and their mother’s balanced perspective and keen intuition, defying the seemingly insurmountable odds and prevailing expectations laid before them. Based on the true story that will inspire the world, “King Richard” follows the uplifting journey of a family whose unwavering resolve and unconditional belief ultimately delivers two of the world’s greatest sports legends.
Phosphates in the Axe
Further to the notes on phosphate pollution in the Axe catchment area East Devon District Council have published more detailed information which can be found here
https://eastdevon.gov.uk/planning/phosphates-on-the-river-axe/
and a map showing affected area has been published
https://eastdevon.gov.uk/media/3724096/nn_map_river-axe-sac.pdf
News from Membury 3rd April 2022
A Message from our Neighbours
Chardstock Womblers – part of Chardstock Eco Group – would like to send greetings and thanks to those good folks in Membury who have been litter picking recently. Chardstock Womblers pick up the litter on every road and lane in the parish of Chardstock once a month including the stretch of Bewley Down that lies within the parish. The two Wombles who pick this stretch commented how uplifting it was to see the adjacent road squeaky clean too. Thank you, Membury Pickers.
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing April 4th
Monday April 4th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday April 5th
Toddler Group at Membury School: 11am
Annual Parish Meeting in the Village Hall 7.30pm hosted by the Parish Council
Wednesday April 6th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 7th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 8th
School: Easter Service in Membury Church at 9:00am
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
Mobile Library, Gowan Brae and the Village Hall 13:10 – 14:40
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 9th
Sunday April 10th
Palm Sunday Holy Communion at Membury Church 11am
Week commencing April 11th
Monday April 11th
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Merrymakers Jubilee Planning Meeting 7:00pm
Tuesday April 12th
Moviola in the Village Hall 7.00pm for 7:30 King Richard
Wednesday April 13th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 14th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 15th
Saturday April 16th
Fish and Chips, Village Hall car park 6pm – 7pm
Pop-up pub at the Village Hall from 6pm.
Sunday April 17th
Easter Sunday Holy Communion at Membury Church 11am
News from Membury 1st April 2022
Oak Apple Café
Thank you to those who supported the school at the café this afternoon. I can vouch for the quality of the pepper and pea frittata and the Victoria sponge!
The school will be running the café again in July.
Amongst other Special Guest Presenters, Membury Church will be in charge on May 6th and Down to Earth want to run the café one Friday in June. If you have a charity close to your heart or a club you want to promote you will be most welcome to take over one week in August or September. Just let us know one Friday.
COVID-19 in the area
It’s everywhere, so please take care and don’t abandon your face mask too hastily. Let’s wish all those in the area who have tested positive mild symptoms and a speedy recovery
Amazon Smile
Amazon has just donated £75.37 to ARC Axminster. If you shop at Amazon by using Amazon Smile and nominating AC we can increase the amount they get. There is no extra cost to you – just visit https://smile.amazon.co.uk/
Phosphates in the Axe
Just as we are starting to test the water quality in the Yarty the following article (summarised here) has appeared in Axminster Nub News https://axminster.nub.news/latest-newsletter
This has already brought to a halt the plans that the Yarcombe Community Land Trust has to build 6 new affordable home in the parish.
“East Devon District Council (EDDC) has been told it should no longer grant planning permission to any development that could increase phosphate levels in the River Axe, which are said to be causing a “significant issue”.
Phosphates are naturally occurring and are released slowly, at low levels, from natural sources such as bankside erosion. However, phosphates can also enter rivers from land management practices, sewerage and foul water that can contain detergents and food waste.
High levels of phosphate can lead to the prolific growth of algae in rivers, which at worst can kill plants and animals and even pose a risk to human health.
In summary, the following types of developments in the catchment area may be affected:
• New residential units (but not annexes) – including holiday and tourist accommodation, gypsy sites/pitches, agricultural workers dwelling
• Commercial development – where overnight accommodation is provided
• Agricultural development – additional barns, slurry stores etc, where it is likely to lead to an increase in herd size
• Prior Notification of agricultural development where, as a result of the development, the herd size may increase. Also prior notifications for change of use to dwellings
• Anaerobic Digesters
• Reserve matters applications for residential development
• Appeals (for schemes including residential and agricultural etc outlined above)
• This may include Discharge of conditions to the above development types of development but we are unsure of this at present”
Forde Abbey
The house reopens today (Friday).
Magnolia is at its best in the arboretum and rhododendrons and azaleas are looking beautiful in the Woodland Garden. The Tulip Extravaganza starts on April 15th
Membury Academy
Aid for Ukraine
I’ve been asked about organisations looking to support animals in Ukraine, and in response Kerstin has signposted the following …
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3101f8d
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/31121f1
Axminster Repair Café
Back at the Guildhall tomorrow 10:00 – 13:00 fixing up broken household items
News from Membury 30th March 2022
Oak Apple Café
The Oak Apple Café team are temporarily handing over the aprons to Membury School, so all money raised will be supporting them this week. There’ll be a display of their work, and on the menu we have
- Parsnip Soup and Bread
- Vegan Pepper and Pea Party Frittatas
- Sausage Rolls
- Lemon Drizzle Cake
- Victoria Sponge
- Shortbread Biscuits
- Gluten Free Date and Walnut Cake
Support the next generation!
The 10-day Mr Motivator Workout Challenge raising funds for The William Low Trust
To help Helen and Craig…
- Donate to our JustGiving page
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/MrMotivatorsWorkoutforBrainTumourCharities5 - Join our Live Launch on Wednesday 30th March 2022 at 6:30pm via Zoom – https://www.challengeforbraintumourcharities.org/videos
or access via Facebook or YouTube. If you cannot join that session, take part in an alternative Workout when you can
Visit the Mr Motivator Workout Challenge for Brain Tumour Charities every day to access your next free video – https://www.challengeforbraintumourcharities.org - During the workout challenges, we would love to see your selfies and photos
You can send these to: info@thewilliamlowtrust.org.uk
Membury Church
Remember loved ones by having a lily flower in their name for Easter at the church. Anyone who would like to remember please contact Debbie Burrough 01404881479 or by email. A list of names will be put up in church.
Sustainable Stockland
The next meet-up of the Sustainable Stockland environment group is next Monday, 4th April at 7pm in the Kings Room at the Kings Arms, Stockland. It would be great to see you there. Feel free to share this and invite others along.
- CSI River Testing – quick update
- Jubilee street party – ‘eco’ ideas
- Litter picking map, tbc
- Group setup & funding?
- Any other business
Grow Wild
Grow Wild has grants of £2000 available for community groups across the UK.
It’s not too late to apply!
We want to hear from anyone who:
- Is part of a community, youth or voluntary group
- Has a project idea that will boost biodiversity and connect local people with nature
- Knows of an urban space that could be positively transformed with UK native plants
Not sure if your project is eligible? Get in touch with us via the contact details on our application page.
Apply by 10am, Monday 4th April 2022!
https://growwild.kew.org/apply-grant/community-grants
COVID-19 Testing
Find out who can get free COVID-19 tests after Friday 1st April
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/311132a
Tesco is selling them for £2 per test
Devon Communities Together
Devon Social Entrepreneurs Programme
Free training workshops for community businesses and social enterprises!
We’re delighted to be able to offer a series of fully funded training workshops for community businesses, community groups, social enterprises, voluntary organisations, sole traders and anyone who has a great idea for their community that they’d like to take forward
- Where does the money come from?
- Creating new ideas
- Getting real about climate change
The courses are running in Barnstaple and Tavistock – neither of which is particularly convenient, but if you get in touch they may be able to organise local dates too. https://salesforce.123formbuilder.com/form-6106955/
Membury Weather
It’s going to be very cold tonight, so fleece-up your delicates and cross your fingers.
To help keep you warm, here is a picture of two of Claire and Chris’s sheep.
Learn Devon
Learn Devon provides adult and community learning courses on behalf of Devon County Council, and new course are starting in April. Many of the courses are on zoom and, even if you’ve never used it before, they have a great guide to help you start. Nearly all of the courses are free, apart from the Creative Writing which has a small cost. Amongst their on-line courses you can sign up for the following:
- Creative Writing: Inspired by Castle Stories and Poems
- Improve your English (join at any time)
- Improve your Maths: (join at any time)
- Presentation Software (level 2)
- Spreadsheet Software: Excel (level 2)
- Word Processing (level 2)
I can recommend the last three which are taught by Simon Longstaff who has run the two photo editing courses I’ve attended (the next one is full!). His manner helps even the most IT-phobic people understand how to get the best from their software and produce useful documents. You will receive a certificate upon completion of the course, and this will look good on your CV.
Burrow Farm Gardens
Reopens 1st April
East Devon’s Secret Garden has lost some of its secrecy! In November 2021 it was named The Nations Favourite Public Garden in a competition run by The English Garden and National Garden Scheme.
When looking for gardens to visit in the South West of England look no further!
East Devon’s secret garden is situated in the idyllic countryside between Axminster & Honiton. The 13-acre garden has colour throughout the year from the spring flowers through to the stunning Azaleas and Rhododendrons in May. Visit in late summer to see the Grasses Garden created to celebrate 50 years of Burrow Farm Gardens. https://burrowfarmgardens.co.uk/
Axe Vale and District Conservation Society
Loads of events coming up …
- Thursday 7th April 09:00 – 12:00 Bird Watching at Beer Head
- Tuesday 12th April 14:00 – 16:00 Family Explorer afternoon at Trinity Hill
- Thursday 21st April 08:00 – all day Bird Watching on Portland Bill
- Wednesday 4th May 10:00 – 12:30 Botanical Stroll Musbury Castle
- Thursday 12th May 08:00 – all day Bird Watch Somerset Levels
Visit https://www.avdcs.org/events.html for more information
News from Membury 28th March 2022
Jubilee Bulletin No 9
Given the number of covid cases in our community We have decided to reschedule the Jubilee Planning meeting scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday) evening. Many people are uncomfortable to gather in large numbers at this time.
The new date will be Monday 11th April.
Membury Church
There was a Mothering Sunday service yesterday. Membury School made the flower posies for the service and £100.00 was collected to go to the Ukraine fund. Thank you to all who contributed.
Rock and Roll
Sara Cranfield has an outside rocking chair, free to collector, but a donation to the DEC for Ukraine would be acceptable. Frame work needs a bit of a re-spray, but otherwise in good order. Reason for sale: VERY low to the ground, and difficult to get out of when one is getting old & decrepit like me!!
Contact Sara – 881567 or e-mail cranfield56@gmail.com
Jubilee Bulletin no10
Do you remember back in the days of the first lockdown, scarecrows popped up in all sorts of places? They became a talking point for all sorts of reasons, but generally made us smile. Well, with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee coming up, let’s try & replicate some more, but with a ‘Royal’ theme. They can be any Royal, living or dead. (No decapitated ones, please). A member of the armed forces on parade, even a corgi or two. Whatever you go for, make it fun for you to make & others to see. There will be a prize for the best one, Judging to take place during the week prior to the Jubilee & the winner announced at the Street Party on the Sunday.
So, come on Membury, get stuffing those old trousers, & let us have a Royal spectacular of scarecrows!! If you would like to enter this, please let me know where you have your exhibit & if it has a name. I look forward to seeing everyone’s creations.
Thank you in anticipation.
Sara
Axminster Medical Practice
SPRING BOOSTER UPDATE
The Joint Committee for Vaccinations and Immunisations (JCVI) recommended the spring booster for the following groups six months after their last dose:
– Anyone over 75 yrs old or above
– Individuals aged 12 and over who have a severely weakened immune system including those with underlying health conditions such as chronic leukaemia or lymphoma and those who have had immunosuppressive treatment following an organ transplant or have had radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
The booster vaccine should be given 6 months after the last dose although NHS England will send out invites at the 91 day point. Anyone with a letter can book with 119 or via the booking website: https://www.nhs.uk/…/coro…/book-coronavirus-vaccination/
Currently, Axminster Medical Practice has not received specific guidance on how we will be involved in the booster vaccination programme. We do not have any vaccine supply and no appointments to offer. We will likely be offering a reduced service in the future with priority given to housebound and residential home patients. The majority of vaccinations will be delivered through the national vaccine service, which can be booked online using the link above or by calling 119.
Midweek Herald
Unfortunately, Archant, who publish the Midweek Herald have written to us to say that it will no longer be available at the Village Hall.
The Axe Vale Show
The Axe Vale Show is going to be back this summer June 18th and 19th — tickets are now on sale via the website www.axevaleshow.co.uk … This is a charity show which raises funds for the local community as well as giving us all a fabulous day out !
This year classic/vintage cars will be on display – if you want to include yours please contact toysandhobbies@axevaleshow.co.uk
Once more the Axe Vale Show team will be running a photo competition in conjunction with the Axminster Photography group. Entries are welcome from all age groups using mobile phones, digital or film cameras.
Printed photos or digital images, entry forms and the necessary entry fee should be sent in by May 23rd so there is still plenty of time to get clicking.
Competition categories include:
- Landscapes and Seascapes
- Nature
- People & Family
- Pets & Domestic Animals
- Towns and Villages
- Axminster Life
All entries cost £1 per photo entered. All proceeds go towards the Axe Vale Show Charity Beneficiaries.
Under 12’s can enter an ‘open category’ free of charge.
Wine and Wisdom Quiz – Stockland
Coming up this Saturday is the hotly anticipated Wine & Wisdom quiz at the Victory Hall. We are delighted to have special guest quiz master Mel Pym joining us! There are only a couple of tables left so please get in touch as soon as possible if you’d like to book.
Kelly Patch 01404 881267
Stockland recycling point for medicine blister packs
Huge thanks to Wendy who has kindly offered to be a collection point in the village for medicine blister packs.
Please make sure all packs are EMPTY.
Note that there are also medicine blister pack recycling points at Axminster Medical Practice and Superdrug in Honiton.
What’s on at The Beehive, Honiton
Honiton Town Council is running a FREE one-day conference on energy saving this Saturday, 2nd April 2022, 10.00am until 2.00pm at the Beehive. Agenda below and click here for information about the speakers.
News from Membury 27th March 2022
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing March 28th
Monday March 28th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 29th
Toddler Group at Membury School: 11am
Jubilee Planning Meeting in the Village Hall 7pm
Wednesday March 30th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 31st
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 1st
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm – run by Membury School
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 2nd
Sunday April 3rd
Week commencing April 4th
Monday April 4th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday April 5th
Toddler Group at Membury School: 11am
Annual Parish Meeting in the Village Hall 7.30pm hosted by the Parish Council
Wednesday April 6th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday April 7th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 8th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
Mobile Library, Gowan Brae and the Village Hall 13:10 – 14:40
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 9th
Sunday April 10th
Holy Communion at Membury Church 11am
Membury Mercury Advertisements March 2022
We’ve all been enjoying lovely weather recently, and some of us have been spending time in our gardens, wishing we had a bit of help. Some of us have been considering a bit of decorating or perhaps some building works. I know one or two of us have been generously donating tyres to the abominable roads of Devon and needing new ones! Support our advertisers – you’ll find all sorts here able to come to your aid whatever the problem is.
If you can offer a service – particularly if it is not represented here – feel free to get in touch and for a small consideration we’ll find space for you in the magazine, and put you on the website, Facebook group and, once a month, an email like this.
News from Membury 25th March 2022
Here Comes Summer!
Please don’t forget that the clocks lurch forward one hour on Sunday – so we all lose an hour, but gain some lovely evening sunshine (with any luck). Having said that, I believe the weather is due to get a little unsettled in the middle of next week after the last few days of beautiful sunshine.
Oak Apple Café
There was a surplus of £65 raised by the café today which will go to Ukraine making our total donation in March up to £409. What a lot of generous souls we have in the village!
If you’d like to suggest a charity close to your heart for donations next month or later please let me know as soon as possible. I’ll list suggestions that we have received later this week … Next week, on April 1st the school will be running the café, so it would be great if we can get a good turnout.
Jubilee Bulletin no. 7
This afternoon, 3 men from East Devon District Council finally ( after 2 failed attempts last week….) arrived at a field owned by Sue and Paul Nicholson, to plant a Jubilee Oak Tree for the Parish of Membury.
It is now settling in to its new plot by a public footpath which leads off the drive to Hasland Farm ( connecting to Lewsley Lane and across on to Green Down by Lilac Cottage), with views down to Membury Parish Church.
Hopefully it will be there for many hundreds of years to come!
Jubilee Bulletin no. 8
Can you believe that it is less than 10 weeks until the Platinum Jubilee celebrations?
The Village Hall is booked for a planning meeting on Tuesday March 29th at 7pm. We will meet as a large group, then split into sub-groups to discuss the various events. There are likely to be some longer lead items that we need to progress, and a few things to follow up on.
Sue Nicholson will coordinate overall, with the following people to take the lead for the following events:
- Richard Barrell and Martin Dash: Fireworks and beacon – Thursday
- Jenny Beaman and John Hodge: Oak Apple Café and Vintage Car Show – Friday
- Jill Bellamy and Rose Shepherd: pop-Up pub and live stream of Jubilee concert – Saturday
- Sue Nicholson and Bobbie Clarke: Street Party – Sunday
- Petronella/Sara: church service and church flowers – Sunday
Even if you haven’t come along before, if you have some ideas or would like to help, we’d love to see you or hear from you!
Village Hall
Please note that the hall blind remote is currently faulty, and that no attempts should be made to raise the main window blinds. It is hoped that this will be swiftly fixed.
Devon County Council Update
Free Covid-19 testing for most people ends next week. Order yours from the government website before April 1st. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3103fb6
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/310158e
Membury Primary Academy Newsletter
Membury Primary Academy II
On Thursday we held a creative writing workshop led by Jan and Nick from the local charity “The Bank of Dreams and Nightmares” based in Bridport. Owl class were joined by a group of KS2 children from Mrs Ethelston’s Primary Academy for the morning. They also enjoyed eating lunch together in the hall and playing on the playground together. They made great use of all the high-tech kit in the Village Hall! As the children composed their story an artist, sharing his screen on a zoom call, was contributing illustrations. School was never this much fun in my day.
Create a Bat-Friendly Garden
Wildlife gardening is a great way to help the bats living in your local area. Join Helen, DWT’s Green Minds Plymouth Urban Ranger, as she shares some simple ways you can create a bat-friendly garden.
Live on Wednesday 30 March, 6pm.
Book here.
News from Membury 23rd March 2022
Oak Apple Café
Not wishing to rest on our laurels (5 stars; did I mention that?), we have an exciting new menu on Friday with custard featuring prominently!
- Stilton, Apple, Onion and Walnut tart
- Egg sandwiches
- Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Custard
- Apple Crumble with Custard
- Chocolate Cake
- Lemon Cake
Down to Earth
Hi all, a few people are interested in doing a bulk order of Strulch, the organic straw mulch. It works out much cheaper to get a delivery of the larger bags as a group. Down to £8.50 a bag (13.5kg) for 48 bags. Normal retail bags are 9kg and this deal is equivalent to £5.66 per bag, much cheaper than anywhere else (it’s £13 per 9kg bag on Amazon).
Have a look at the link and please let me know by 29th March so we can get it spread on our gardens before the weeds get too carried away! Sandra has kindly volunteered to have it delivered to East Membury Farm this year.
https://www.strulch.co.uk/3-buy-strulch
Stockland Easter Village Market and Table Top Sale
Victory Hall, Saturday April 9th 10:00 – 12:00
Hot refreshments
Free Entry
Table bookings invited, please contact Monica Parris
01404 881535 moinica.parris@connect.com
Stockland Jumble Sale – March 26th
We are sad to report that due to disposal issues, we have had to cancel this planned event.
Victory Hall Committee
Wild East Devon News – March
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30f44fc
Webinar: What if you just leave it? Rewilding unwrapped with Dr. Sam Rose
Dr Sam Rose has spent the last 2 years exploring rewilding in the UK with photography and interviews – see www.whatifyoujustleaveit.info – and is ‘unwrapping’ the concept in a free online presentation for Devon Wildlife Trust on Thursday 24th March. Sam spent the last two years – in between lockdowns – visiting rewilding sites in the UK as part of a major project for his MA in Photography at the Arts University Bournemouth and will tell the audience about his journey though the project, showing images and talking about rewilding at a range of locations. He will include what he has learnt from the amazing people he has met along the way, and his views on the concept of rewilding – what this really means and why many people are still in two minds about it.
Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/what-if-you-just-leave-it-rewilding-unwrapped-with-dr-sam-rose-tickets-276663988437
Cotley Point-to-Point
And we are off – lots of entries, sunshine forecast, beer tent stocked, farm shop burgers and sausages ordered, children’s activities, bookies on stand by and the course looking amazing. Top family day out even for an early Mother’s Day treat! £15 CASH per adult entry & cash for food & beer tent. Seven races from 12 noon 26th March, then the live band and post-racing party start. Gates open from 10:45am.
Community Support for Refugees Meeting
Sunday 27 March 7:30-8:30 pm
St Michael’s Church, Shute EX13 7QW
With brief introductions from local resident and barrister Sam Knights QC and Rev Julie Lomas, Five Alive Mission Community on the visa routes for Ukrainian refugees and the UK Homes for Ukraine Scheme, and other ways in which individuals and groups in the community can support refugees. Please join us with your questions, comments and ideas for discussion.
Refreshments will be served. All welcome!
Paddleboat Theatre
Did you miss their performance of Margot and Mr Whatsit last November at the Village Hall?
It’s coming to Seaton Gateway on Saturday
Sophia’s imaginary friend is Mr. Whatsit. No matter where Sophia finds herself living, he’s always there with a joke to tell and a game to play. But when Sophia moves into her new foster home, Mr Whatsit finds himself unimagined! Now Sophia has a new imaginary friend – the glamourous, grown-up Margot. Can Mr. Whatsit keep him from being unimagined for good? And with her imaginary friends competing against each other, will Sophia manage to find her forever home?
Paddleboat Theatre Company present an interactive make-believe tale where the real and imaginary collide, and friends are never far away.
Doors 2.30pm
Adults £8, Children £6 Family ticket 2 adults & 2 children £26
Suitable for age 4+
Running time 55 mins (no interval)
Unreserved seating
A supersonic Evening of Adventure
Richard Noble, live tomorrow night (Thursday) at the Beehive Centre, Honiton. Doors open at 6:30pm.
News from Membury March 21st 2022
100 Club Winners
Allan Gyngell £30
Penny and John Stevenson £10
Jim Gallantree £10
Toddler Group at Membury School Tomorrow
Cancelled due to staffing issues.
Membury Church
There will NOT be a service in Membury Church on 3rd April.
The Easter service in Membury church is on the 17th April. If anyone would like to remember a loved one with a lily flower to put in church for the Easter week, please ring Debbie on 01404881479 or email debbieburrough@aol.com. A list of names will be put in church.
PCC Meeting Tomorrow at the Village Hall
Please note that this is NOT the AGM. The Annual Parochial Church Meeting is on Tuesday 17 May
Stockland Tennis Club
Skittles and Supper at the Kings Arms, Stockland on Friday 1st April 2022 at 7pm.
We hope you will join us for an evening of skittles and a scrumptious meal to start off the Tennis season. It would be great to see as many old, new and prospective members and friends as possible – the more the merrier!
Cost is £10 per person on the evening
Please let us know if you would like to come as soon as possible but no later than 28thMarch 2022 to allow time for KA staff to plan.
To book contact Jenny jenny@corrymoor.com 01404861114 or Rowena bryandrew@yahoo.co.uk 01404881538
News from Membury 20th March 2022
On the Edge of the Known World
The Membury Local History Society has been worried of late that the scoundrels at Whitestaunton might be trying to muscle in on Membury territory, and so an expedition was constituted to explore the northern boundary of the parish and seek out the long-lost Boundary Stone. After days (Nick’s a bit slow) of trekking North from Retter’s Garage and when they were down to the last bar of Kendal Mint Cake the intrepid partnership – Nick and Bryan – gave up, and returned home dishevelled and disappointed. The challenge was raised at the last History Society committee meeting and as a result a second expedition set out yesterday armed with poles, gloves and a swiss army knife to go where the first party had failed. The team of Bryan and Rowena Drew and Daniel and Jan Lazar shouldered their packs and, having left a hasty note with Tim Retter in case they didn’t return, set off following the trail the previous expedition had left. Success came relatively quickly with Rowena the first to hear the clink of stone against her stick while prodding at the base of the hedge, following which Bryan got down on hands and knees and cleared away some of the vegetation to reveal the stone set well back in the thorny hedge.
Should anyone wish to pay homage to the stone, it can be found at 326236 108613 or roughly W3W “amazed.arranged.headboard”. On it appear to be the runes “M” and “S”.
According to the OS map there is another Boundary Stone just by Wellands Farm, but it is feared this has long since disappeared.
Thank you Duncan and David
Duncan Mackinder and David Neill litter-picked on the section of Half Moon from Holy City turn off south towards Challenger. They stopped just before the narrow windy bit as it’s not so safe there. North of Holy City is covered by the Chardstock wombles.
For such a small section it didn’t seem worth getting others involved. It’s likely that within a couple of weeks those verges will be so overgrown that picking will be not easy, so at least it’s had a spring clean.
What’s On in Membury
Week commencing March 21st
Monday March 21st
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Down to Earth Meeting in the Village Hall: 7:30pm
Tuesday March 22nd
Toddler Group at Membury School: 11am
Membury PCC AGM in the Village Hall: 7pm
Wednesday March 23rd
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 24th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 25th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
Merrymakers Committee Meeting in the Village Hall 4pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 26th
Sunday March 27th
Mothering Sunday Service at Membury Church: 11am
Week commencing March 28th
Monday March 18th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 29th
Toddler Group at Membury School: 11am
Jubilee Planning Meeting in the Village Hall 7pm
Wednesday March 30th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 31st
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday April 1st
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm – run by the School
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday April 2nd
Sunday April 3rd
Service at Membury Church 11am
News from Membury March 18th 2022
Oak Apple Café
Nervously, we opened our doors early today to welcome Kate Parffrey from EDDC to inspect our processes, the kitchen and Mike and Jenny Beaman’s kitchen too. Having recently awarded the Tuckers Arms one star, we thought she might be in a mean mood, but everything went very well. Thank you, Jill, for making sure the hall kitchen was absolutely spotless. Thank you, Jenny, for also having a spotless kitchen, and thank you to all our volunteers for helping keep the paperwork in order. We’ve been awarded 5 stars!
Also of note today we had a nearly a dozen and a half pastel de nata made by Ana – our Portuguese Clerk to the Council. “Better than I’ve had in Portugal” claimed one satisfied customer. Let’s just say that they all went very quickly, and we have been promised more in the future. If you have a specific foreign delicacy you’d like to share with the village, just let us know.
Thanks to our generous patrons we’ve raised another £83 for DEC and Ukraine making our total £344
Fish and Chips
Bad news I’m afraid – it’s gone up to £7 per portion. It’s still brilliant value though – get it from the Village Hall car park tomorrow (Saturday) from 6pm. Don’t forget that there’s a bar too with bottled Otter beer and some excellent wine. Please let Jill know if you want to order fish. She’s always last in the queue and we wouldn’t want her to miss out, would we? Please note that the bar will be CASH ONLY, as will the chippy.
The Terrace
Looking lovely in the sun today …
Devon County Council Update
Rising cases of coronavirus in care homes and hospitals; Devon celebrates Social Workers and straw poll results show support for following public health guidance https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30f6977
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30f4113
East Devon Culture – have your say
I’m sharing news about East Devon District Councils cultural strategy consultation in case you are interested in getting involved and you haven’t already heard about it! More below…
- What do you think about East Devon’s culture – from museums to theatres to art galleries to live music?
- Help shape the district’s creative arts for the next decade by taking part in East Devon District Council (EDDC)’s new culture survey.
- What do you enjoy about East Devon’s cultural offerings? What would you like to see more of? How can EDDC help you/your family get creative?
Please share with all your work colleagues, family, and friends living, studying or working in East Devon.
Deadline: midnight, Sunday 27 March. Take this quick survey
Devon and Cornwall Police – A Slightly different Scam
Scammers are targeting people who are selling valuable electrical items via online selling platforms. The vendors have been contacted about their items and when the scammer arrived, they paid for the item using a convincing banking app. The app mimicked apps from a number of banks and appeared to show the funds being transferred to the victim’s bank account.
This scam is catching a lot of people out as the app is very convincing. The scammer asks the victim to enter their bank details into the app and then it appears to show the amount being debited from the buyer’s account.
We would urge anyone selling an item to be sceptical about accepting payment via a banking app. Payment by cash, credit card or using Paypal for Business is a more secure way of making a sale.
Please help us to raise awareness by alerting your friends and family.
If you believe that you are a victim of this scam please report online to www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
Flour Power
Dan Jaffe inadvertently doubled up on his flour order recently and has donated the spare 10KG bag of Wessex Mill Strong White Flour to the Oak Apple to help raise money for Ukraine. I’ll split it into 4 2.5kg bags which are on offer for £3 each, pick up from Haccombe.
South Somerset Choral Society Spring Concert
MOZART: Requiem and Ave Verum Corpus,
HAYDN: Insanae et Vanae Curae, TeDeum, BRUCKNER: Locus Iste,
BRAHMS: How Lovely are Thy Dwellings fair
Conducted by Jenny Broom
7.30pm 26th March 2022 at St Mary’s Chard
Tickets available from Janet Andrew at Greystones 01404 88177
Down to Earth
On Monday 21st at 7:30pm in the Village Hall the Membury gardening group are having a meeting with refreshments. The group was started three years ago and has gradually been growing and now is the time to review and plan our remit and activities. If you are interested in joining us please let Jan know (01404 881408) so there will be sufficient wine.
News from Membury March 17th 2022
Oak Apple Café
It’s a big day tomorrow – we are being inspected by the Environmental Health Technical Officer. We have a Special Guest Offering as well; The new Clerk to the Parish Council, Ana Silsom is from Portugal, and she is making us some Pastel de nata – Portuguese Custard Tarts. If you’ve never tried one, you are in for a treat.
The full menu is as follows
- Vegetable soup with Homemade Bread
- Spicy sausage rolls
- Cheese, Mushroom and Tomato tarts
- Victoria Sponge
- Lemon Syrup Cake
- Somerset Apple Cake
- Pastel de Nata
Once more, after expenses, all the money raised will go to DEC in support of Ukraine. So far, we have donated £261 from last Friday and the Friday before.
Mobile Library
After being blown away last month the library van is due to visit us tomorrow, so please come along and support it. It will be calling at Gowan Brae (opposite the old post office) at 13:10, and the Village Hall at 13:50
Devon Local Nature Partnership
Correction:
The webinar: Nature’s role in tackling the Climate Crisis is on Tuesday 29th March 09:30 – 11:30, not 19th March as previously stated.
Free to attend. Book via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/natures-role-in-tackling-the-climate-crisis-devon-lnp-webinar-tickets-262425300137
The Devon Carbon Plan
The final version of the Devon carbon plan is open for consultation Response to Devon Climate Assembly – Devon Climate Emergency. This will be our final chance to have our say on the shape of the plan and influence the outcomes. There is a 15-minute short questionnaire or a more detailed 45-minute version.
News from Membury March 16th 2022
Found Coat
The coat has been reunited with its owner
Church Service Update
Sunday March 27th
Communion Service at Membury Church: 11am
Supporting Ukraine
Last fish and chips before the clocks go forward!
This Saturday (19th) the van will be calling at the car park by the village hall and serving from 6pm onwards. There’ll be a pop-up licensed bar at the Hall as well. Eat your fish in the hall, on the new Terrace or take it home. What about buying a portion for a neighbour?
To avoid disappointment, contact Jill on 01404 881641, 07710849984 or jill-folletts@outlook.com. You wouldn’t want to disappoint Jill now, would you?
Playing Field
The work to replace the fence at the playing field has been completed well ahead of time, and it looks great. Many thanks to Kris from Chardstock for his efforts. The weather today was worse than forecast and the tractor has made a bit of a mess of the entrance to the field. We’ll sort this as soon as we can, but in the meantime, wear your wellies and enjoy the wallowing!
Devon Local Nature Partnership
The Devon Local Nature Partnership is a collaboration of all those working to tackle the Ecological Emergency and develop a healthy nature recovery network across Devon for wildlife, communities and business. Please see https://www.devonlnp.org.uk/ for more information.
Join our next Webinar: Nature’s role in tackling the Climate Crisis Tuesday 19th March 09:30 – 11:30
Find out more about how restoring nature can help us tackle the climate emergency. Topics include the Devon Carbon Plan, Devon Nature Recovery Network, soils and farming, marine habitats and trees. Speakers include Phil Norrey (CEO Devon County Council and Chair of the Devon Climate Partnership), Harry Barton (CEO, Devon Wildlife Trust), Dr Matt Frost (Marine Biological Association), Eleanor Lewis (Woodland Trust), and Becky Willson (Farm Carbon Toolkit). Free to attend. Book via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/natures-role-in-tackling-the-climate-crisis-devon-lnp-webinar-tickets-262425300137
Tree Council News
We are extremely excited to announce the release of our brand new podcast, Life On The Hedge https://podfollow.com/life-on-the-hedge/view.
The series explores the magic of hedgerows and the growing abundance of green jobs available to young people in the UK. In each episode, listeners will hear from an incredible young person at the beginning of a blossoming career in nature and learn how they got started in the sector. Our stars head outside to show us what it’s really like to plant trees, cultivate native species, lay hedges, work with farmers and volunteers and discover the wildlife that depends upon our hedges.
The Beehive, Honiton
Help us with this quick survey!
Help shape the district’s creative arts for the next decade by taking part in East Devon District Council’s new culture survey.
What do you enjoy about East Devon’s cultural offerings? What you would like to see more of? How we can help you/your family get creative?
Please share with all your family and friends living, studying or working in East Devon.
Deadline: midnight, Sunday 27 March.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOvZPkxBVRR82hT73QyyINtsHdQkQATGRDd-OzJNjeDTvOpg/viewform
The Eyes of Tammy Faye (12A) at the Beehive Friday 18th 7.30pm
Tammy Faye (Jessica Chastain) meets slick, charismatic Jim Bakker (Andrew Garfield) at Bible college. Soon they’re married, and offered the chance to rejuvenate a Christian broadcasting network. The Bakkers quickly rise from their humble beginnings to become televangelist icons, Tammy Faye becoming legendary for her outlandish appearance and her eagerness to embrace people from all walks of life.
However, their success comes at a cost: soon, financial improprieties, scheming rivals and a major scandal soon threaten to topple their carefully constructed empire.
Tickets: Adults £7.50, U16 £6.50
Book here: https://thebeehive.savoysystems.co.uk/TheBeehive.dll/TSelectItems.waSelectItemsPrompt.TcsWebMenuItem_1529.TcsWebTab_3772.TcsProgramme_817365 .
Interactive art exhibition aimed at younger children
This exhibition is run by a fantastic young artist and student at Woodroffe School. https://www.townmill.org.uk/natasha-hayball-19th-20th-march-one-two-three-malthouse-gallery/
Axminster Drama Club
Thank you so much for bearing with us, when we had to change Nativity! The Musical from December to March.
We are incredibly excited to finally be able to bring you this musical and we wanted to let you know that we have decided to add a bit of Christmas Sparkle into March. So we will Deck the halls with boughs of holly if you can don we now (y)our gay apparel (wear your Christmas jumpers) and together we can Fa la la la la, la la la la.
We look forward to seeing you on 25th and/or 26th March, where it will be the season to be jolly! (Fa la la la la, la la la la).
We still have some tickets left, so please tell your friends!
Devon and Cornwall Police
Over recent weeks in Devon and Cornwall there has been a slight increase in reports of theft relating to domestic heating oil and diesel fuel.
Fuel theft can be reduced with simple crime prevention measures.
- Landowners where possible, should secure gates and block unused entrances.
• Protect heating oil and fuel tanks with locks, lighting, CCTV and fencing.
• Store machinery, vehicles and fuel containers out of sight where possible.
• Consider the use of signage or other means to prevent cold callers to homes, farms and businesses.
• Keep a regular inventory of quantities, so thefts can be identified promptly.
• Notify the police using 999 if you suspect an offence is being committed.
• If you have any information regarding fuel theft please email 101@dc.police.uk, call the non-emergency number, 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
News from Membury March 13th 2022
Found Coat
I found a coat up at the playing field on Friday, but I forgot to put it in the newsletter.
If you recognise it, it’s at my house (Haccombe) from where it can be collected. It was very wet when I picked it up – with any luck it’ll be dry when it gets picked up.
Mr Motivator Challenge
It is brain tumour awareness month! This is the month that William really dipped in 2017, he needed a shunt fitted to drain the fluid off his brain due to the progression of brain tumours, but things did not go to plan. This month was the beginning of the end…
To mark this significant month- we have an exciting Mr Motivator 10 Day fitness fun Challenge which starts Wednesday 30th March 2022!
To join in the fun:
1. Fill out the registration form below:
Mr Motivator Challenge Registration
2. Set up your fundraising page by following the link below and click on the orange button ‘Start Fundraising’ or simply Donate: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/MrMotivatorsWorkoutforBrainTumourCharities5
3. For more specific information visit
https://www.thewilliamlowtrust.co.uk/mr-motivator website page.
Also in the news in Harrow https://harrowonline.org/2022/03/09/harrow-charity-mr-motivator/
Thank you for your support!
Helen and Craig, The William Low Trust
Stockland Book Group
Stockland Book Group meets next Saturday,19th March at 11am in the welcoming environment of the Kings Arms.
Please come along for lively discussion about what we’re reading and coffee and cakes! Our next book will be the classic Jane Eyre. Escape into a book….
For further info ring Paul Spencer-01404 882819
Song workshop in Stockland Church
Saturday March 19th. 10.30 until lunchtime (arr. 10/15). Simple peace rounds, chants and part songs and one from the Ukraine. No experience necessary. All welcome! Entrance free but donations to International Red Cross and UNICEF Ukraine crisis appeal. Coffee break. Wear warm clothes. Raise the roof and raise some funds! Organised by Caroline Rigby (workshop leader) and Jane Wedlock.
It’s short notice so please share! l.c.rigby@btinternet.com
What’s On in Membury
Week commencing March 14th
Monday March 14th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 15th
Toddler Group at Membury School: 11am
History Society AGM and talk in the Village Hall 7 for 7:30pm
Wednesday March 16th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 17th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 18th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
Mobile Library, Gowan Brae and Village Hall 1:10 – 2:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 19th
Fish & Chips and Pop-Up Pub 6pm Village Hall
Sunday March 20th
Morning Prayer at Membury Church 11am
Week commencing March 21st
Monday March 21st
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Down to Earth Meeting in the Village Hall: 7:30pm
Tuesday March 22nd
Toddler Group at Membury School: 11am
Membury PCC AGM in the Village Hall: 7pm
Wednesday March 23rd
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 24th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 25th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 26th
Sunday March 27th
Mothering Sunday Service at Membury Church: 11am
News from Membury March 11th 2022
Yellow Warning of Wind
Between 13:00 and 19:00 on Saturday 12th March
A spell of windy and wet weather during Saturday afternoon may lead to some travel disruption.
Moriarty Winds
Seaton Music welcomes the young wind quintet Moriarty Winds to perform at the Gateway Theatre on Thursday 24th March at 7.30pm.
Moriarty Winds are the Chamber Ensemble in residence at Dorset Opera, where they make up the principal players of the wind section and French horns. They have also performed recently at the Investec International Festival and Norfolk and Norwich Chamber Music Series.
Help Needed
A local resident is seeking some part time help.
Duties will vary but may include cooking, cleaning, secretarial work, some personal care and possibly some light gardening. Any or all of the above would be helpful.
A DBS check and references are required, and an hourly rate can be mutually agreed. In the first instance please reply to prema.thakur@mishcon.com
Oak Apple Café
A really good spread at the café today, and after expenses £85 was raised which will go via DEC to Ukraine. Thank you to all who contributed generously. There’s also a suggestion box for other charities we could consider donating to. We’ll open this in April, and let our customers know the options.
Babysitter wanted
Please note that the request for a babysitter for Hannah and Kyle is for 18 March, and not !8 March. I just leant a bit heavily on the shift key at the wrong time.
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30e4282
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30e66d3
Blocked Drain by Bay Tree House
John Steadman has reported this to DCC, so the problem should be fixed early next week – there’s no freezing weather due, so it shouldn’t pose too much of an issue.
Josephine
Membury Primary School Newsletter
Membury Primary School Illuminations
The school is aware of the external light that stays on all the time, and their site manager will fix it as soon as he is able.
Storytime
Take the kids or grandkids to Storytime with Plastic Free, Axminster tomorrow morning 11-12 at Axminster Library! For 5 – 8 year olds.. Listen to a tale of environmental derring-do, see the hero defeat the baddies, enjoy some special time with your little person.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice East Devon are looking for dedicated Trustees to help run our Charity.
We need people who want to support their community and make a difference. You will learn an enormous amount on running a charity, governance and much more and not to mention it looks awesome on your CV.
Come and join our team for an exciting year ahead!
Contact us for more information or to apply: Volunteering@citizensadviceeastdevon.org
News from Membury March 10th 2022
Oak Apple Café
I’m not sure whether the weather will be good enough to make use of The Terrace, but we can assure you of a very warm welcome from 13:30 to 16:00 at the village hall with a tremendous menu:
- Red Pepper and Lime Soup with Crusty Bread
- Sausage Rolls
- Mushroom Tart (V)
- Spicy Pear Crumble Cake with a dollop of cream
- Coffee Fudge Cake
- Irish Tea Brack (Dairy Free)
As ever, it’s donations – and we have a suggested list, and as promised the money raised this week will be going towards support for Ukraine.
Babysitter wanted
Hannah and Kyle at Little Goslins are after a babysitter for March 18th to look after their 8 year old and their 3 year old. Can anyone help them out? hbalne@yahoo.com
Devon and Cornwall Police
The Special Constable recruitment closing date is tomorrow, 11 March. There is still time to sign up if you are interested in volunteering.
For more information about this role or to apply, please visit Special Constables – Volunteer today – be part of something bigger (recruitment-dcp-dp.org).
If you have ever thought of getting a paid job as a police officer or civilian employee, getting a few years as a Special under your belt is a great idea.
Devon County Council
Are you embracing the relaxation of COVID-19 rules or continuing to be cautious?
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30de8d6
Environment and climate change update – and cheap compost bins
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30cdb86
Scam warning
I’m sure it’ll come as no surprise, but the situation in Ukraine has led to a new way to scam people out of their money. If you wish to donate money either use the Disasters Emergency Committee site https://www.dec.org.uk/ or make a few simple checks before you hand over financial information.
- check the charity’s name and registration number at gov.uk/checkcharity
- Most charities with an annual income of £5,000 or more must be registered, and you can use the advanced search function to identify charities working in specific regions and countries.
- ensure the charity is genuine before giving any financial information
- be careful when responding to emails or clicking on links within them
- contact or find out more online about the charity that you’re seeking to donate to or work with to understand how they are spending their funds
- look out for the Fundraising Badge on charity fundraising materials, this is the logo which shows that a charity has committed to fundraise in line with the Code of Fundraising Practice
Yarcombe market – It’s Back
Yarcombe Market returns to their Village Hall this Saturday, 12th March, 10a.m. – 12 noon
They have a good number of stalls already: ● cakes, ● pies ● vegetables ● plants ● woodwork ● ironwork ● cards ● bric-a-brac ● toys, and more.
● Refreshments available as usual: enjoy a coffee and slice of delicious home-made cake with friends.
Please come and support their Village Market on Saturday 12th March!
Yarcombe Wine and Wisdom
Yarcombe Jubilee Hall: We would like to invite you to Wine & Wisdom on Saturday 12th March, 8p.m. at Yarcombe Village Hall.
Maximum of 6 per Team – Entry £6 per person, Includes complimentary bottle of wine / per team and individual refreshments.
Quiz Master – Cathy Derryman
Please enter your team with Susan Parris – 01460 234297 or 07846 508530 or birchoak@btconnect.com
All proceeds will help maintain Yarcombe Village Hall
Your support will be very much appreciated.
Slab de-wobbling
Please don’t forget that there will be a crack team of engineers busily engaged in silencing the wobbly slabs on the main street between Bay Tree House and Coombe Bank. They are due to start at 06:00 tomorrow, but I don’t know how long the job will take. If possible please avoid using the main street tomorrow if you can.
Axminster Medical Practice – Update 9/3/2022
STAFF ABSENCES
We have new positive COVID cases today amongst staff. Please be understanding, and we will try and manage patients remotely if it is safe to do so.
We are currently under significant extra pressure due to multiple staff absences with COVID. Please be mindful of this when contacting us.
If you need medical help, please continue to contact us either online or by telephone.
However, if you feel your condition is mild or self-limiting, consider simple home remedies or speaking to a pharmacist.
There are loads of colds going around kids at the moment and most children will be absolutely fine and just need Calpol and TLC. It can be worrying though so please consider taking a look at the Handi app which gives helpful advice on when you need to get your little one checked out.
Fancy a Big Breakfast on Sunday?
News from Membury March 8th 2022
Sustainable Stockland Environment Group
Our next meeting is at 7pm on Tuesday 8th March (today) in the Kings Arms pub. We will be hearing an update from our new river water quality testing volunteers after their training session with the Westcountry Rivers Trust, as well as talking about plans for an upcoming Stockland litter pick, as part of the Great British Spring Clean.
The group meets monthly for an informal chat about local environmental issues and to find ways that we can lower our impact on the planet, both individually and as a community.
All welcome, any age, do come and join us.
Claire Holgate 07771 786610 claireholgate@hotmail.co.uk
Fag ends
A cigarette bin will shortly be installed at The Terrace. Until then please could you please take your fag-ends home, or drop them in the recently re-emplaced dustbin in the car park.
Uphay Grass Fed Angus X Beef
Nick has 2 animals coming back later this week and will have 10KG beef boxes available.
Each box contains a mix of steaks, joints, stewing and mince. All cuts evenly distributed across them all by the butchers. Hung 21 days, and the last one was apparently v tasty.
He can deliver. Cost is £10 per KG – quite a bargain. Ring Nick Cunningham 07977490574
Slab de-wobbling
The slabs that cover the stream outside Battens – almost opposite the village Hall are being de-wobbled on Friday morning (11th) from about 06:00, so there may be some disruption to the smooth flow of traffic
99 Green Balloons
Mike and Jenny Beaman hosted a birthday party for their youngest at the weekend (he’s 30) and as a consequence they have a whole stack of green and gold balloons strung together – and it seems a shame just to pop them. Can anyone make use of them?
Axminster Guildhall
Seeking Front of House volunteers. Help keep the arts alive in our nearest town. Selling tickets, programmes and ice creams, showing people to their seats, helping evacuate in case of an emergency and various other things. Most roles allow you to see the show as well – an added bonus. There’s a real (not zoom!) meeting on Saturday about this – message me if you are interested. It’s great fun!
News from Membury March 7th 2022
Advance Warning I
The perimeter fence at the playing field is being replaced 16/17 March, and it will be necessary to close the field while work is being done to allow tractor access. If it’s very wet this might be delayed in order to avoid heavy equipment damaging the surface.
Advance Warning II
The Merrymakers are applying to close the road between Bay Tree House and Kinders on Sunday June 5th from 10:00 until 17:00 for the jubilee street party. If you live in the area that will be affected please do your best to avoid deliveries on that day!
Otterford Repair Café
The second Otterford Repair Café will be running this Sunday (13th) from 11:00 – 14:00 at their Parish Hall (TA20 3RS)
Electrical, IT, Knife sharpening, Garden Tools, Clothes/Textiles, Book Binding, Bicycles and much more…
Café serving Tea, Coffee, Soft Drinks, Cakes, Sandwiches and Snacks
Free Entry
Moviola
We’re screening “Pig” in the village hall on Tuesday at 19:00 for 19:30 (not as printed in the Mercury). Tickets £6, cash or card.
In an after-film Q&A, director Michael Sarnoski revealed the pig only had three days of training and bit Nicolas Cage multiple times. After a particularly nasty bite, Cage joked: “I’ve been set on fire, I’ve been in flipped cars but it’ll be sepsis from a pig bite that kills me.”
Drink our beer, eat our ice cream and enjoy one of Barack Obama’s favourite films from 2021!
Cinechard
Two films in one week?
If you are at a loose end on Friday 11th come and see Oscar-nominated Kristen Stewart in “Spencer” at Holyrood Academy in Chard – 19:00 for 19:30 – tickets £6
During her Christmas holidays with the royal family at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, England, Diana Spencer, struggling with mental health problems, decides to end her decade-long marriage to Prince Charles.
Apparently Kristen spent 6 months perfecting the accent – and she nailed it.
Another Frogspawn Plea
Sophie Kierstan is after some frogspawn for her classroom at Membury Primary School. Can anyone help her out?
Housing needed
Lee and Sarah of The Gamekeepers Table are desperate to find a house to rent anywhere in the area. They are seeking a 3 / 4 bed house with a garden and possibly outbuildings. They have to move in the next 5 weeks. Sazzy_bob@msn.com
Drop off for Ukraine Aid
Chard and Ilminster Ukraine Aid now have a drop off point in Stockland – Oak View, Broadhayes, Stockland, Honiton EX14 9EL. For details For details and updates on items required for donation please go to this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/554814068872493/
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing March 7th
Monday March 7th
- Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
- Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 8th
- Moviola in the Village Hall: Pig. 7 for 7:30pm
- Toddler Group at the school 11:00am
Wednesday March 9th
- Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 10th
- Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
- Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 11th
- Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
- Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
- S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 12th
Sunday March 13th
Week commencing March 14th
Monday March 14th
- Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
- Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 15th
- Toddler Group at the school 11:00am
- History Society AGM and talk on Cleave Hill 7pm for 7:30pm
Wednesday March 16th
- Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 17th
- Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
- Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 18th
- Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
- Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
- Library Van outside Gowan Brae 13:10, Village Hall 13:50
- S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 19th
- Fish and Chips, and licensed bar in the Village Hall from 6pm
Sunday March 20th
- Membury Church Holy communion 11:00am
News from Membury March 4th 2022
Oak Apple Café
We had a fantastic turnout at the Oak Apple Café today and raised £76 after expenses. We are adding £100 to this and donating £176 to support Ukraine via DEC – contributing this way means that the UK government will match fund up to £20,000,000. Money raised during March will all be donated to this cause.
We plan to donate money to other charities, and worthy village causes from April onwards. If you would like to nominate a specific charity, please pop their name on a piece of paper and drop it in the box that will be on display every Friday.
A message from Bramleys
We have native daffodils in our flower meadow. John planted them fifteen years ago. They are shorter and different from most daffodils you see nowadays – probably the sort that Wordsworth saw – but now very much in decline. They naturalise very well but it does take time. If anyone is interested in seeing them or doing something similar contact John and Jeanette and they will arrange for you to come and see them. tjeanette817@gmail.com.
Severed Connections
It seems that several parishioners are still without a landline. Some people have been issued with 4G EE modems, but in this area where mobile reception is at best a bit hit and miss this is not a great solution. People on the road to Axminster, right on the edge of Membury have apparently been quoted a fix date of 25 March. One person closer to the village centre who relies on a home safe pendant has been given a date of 10th March to get their line back working. These dates are clearly unacceptable.
School Newsletter
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30d2821
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30d2493
Does anyone have a suitable cake stand?
Lucy Pearse is looking to borrow a 12 inch round white cake stand. Can anyone help her out? winifredsfudge@gmail.com
I’m sure she’ll be happy to donate some of her excellent fudge to anyone who can help her!
News from Membury March 3rd 2022
From the Mercury Team …
We hope that most of you have had your Mercury delivered by now, and would like to congratulate Sarah Bell, our new typesetter, on her fresh and spring-like first issue.
Our team assiduously check and re-check for errors, but still some escape in technological transit. So – we apologise for the error in the title of the tribute to Alex Tasker, especially to Marie and his family. Sorry!
Oak Apple Café
Fresh from completing her Level 2 Food and Hygiene Course Penny Stevenson will be in charge tomorrow supported by John and me. Sandra Capper will also be dropping off a load of “Country Gardener Devon” magazines for people to help themselves to.
On the menu we have:
- Celeriac and Carrot Soup with bread
- Cheese and Spring Onion Scones
- Sausage Rolls
- Sticky Date and Ginger Cake
- Victoria Sponge
- Oaty, Nutty, Fruity Cookies
Scams
One of our peripheral correspondents has received a call today from a mobile number to let her know that £799 was about to be taken from her Amazon account. Fortunately, she wasn’t fooled. Please be careful with unexpected calls or emails telling you that you either owe, or are owed, money. I get about one a week. There are also a lot of COVID scams doing the rounds at the moment. When in doubt, just hang up. Genuine callers will definitely call you back; scammers probably won’t.
Village Communications I
I’m getting reports that some parishioners may still be without landline or broadband. If this applies to you or a neighbour can you let me know please.
Village Communications II
As promised in the Mercury, from tomorrow there’ll be a handful of printed copies of this newsletter by the newspaper rack at the village hall. If you have a neighbour or friend who would benefit from this, please help yourself. If you go down there and there are no copies left, let me know and I can print more if necessary. I’ll do this for a month and then review the popularity of this system.
Livestock Worrying
From Devon and Cornwall Police
During 2021 Devon and Cornwall police received 148 reports of livestock worrying. A slight reduction from the previous year however within this number 350 animals have been killed or injured, a significant rise.
These numbers are likely to be much higher due to under reporting and the longer term effects of an incident where the distress can cause a sheep to die or miscarry their lambs long after the event. It can often be difficult to attribute longer term issues to a specific incident.
Livestock worrying is a criminal offence and can have a devastating impact on livestock, farmers and in some circumstances the dog and the owner. Crime data indicates an increase in reports at this time of year as the weather improves and as more people access the countryside, particularly during lambing.
What do you need to do?
Ensure responsible dog ownership. Dogs should not be unaccompanied outside of the home and their behaviour should be managed at all times. All land is owned and access is not a given right unless designated, it is important that users of the countryside understand specific designations of land and rights of way, for example on land designated as access land under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act dogs must be on a lead between the 1st of March and 31st July and at all times when livestock is present.
Axminster Repair Café
Having first been launched in 2009, the global Repair Café movement has taken the world by storm, more recently taking off in the UK thanks to the success of television show ‘The Repair Shop’.
At Axminster the enthusiasm for the sustainable repair and re-use ethos is clear, with the town’s own Repair Café going from strength to strength, with 28 items being fixed up last month.
Come along to the Guildhall between 10:00 and 13:00 this Saturday (5th) and bring along something that needs fixing!
Moviola
Next Tuesday 19:00 for 19:30 (not as printed in the Mercury) “Pig”. Tickets £6. Licensed bar, ice creams etc.
“With his only connection to the outside world lying in Portland businessman Amir, taciturn, meditative hermit Rob has found solace deep in the heart of the dense Oregon forests and the unique bond with his only companion: his beloved truffle-hunting pig. Tired of grappling with the profound sadness of prolonged grief, Rob relies on a simple daily routine to keep his sanity, self-respect, and dignity, utterly unaware that he has already caught unwanted attention. Now, his best friend is missing, and revenge can only make things worse. Indeed, strange as it sounds, inconsolable Rob only wants his pig back, and if he has to, he’ll go to the edge of the world to find her. But first things first. Who has Rob’s pig?”
News from Membury March 2nd 2022
It’s World Book Day tomorrow
This year celebrates the 25th anniversary of World Book Day – with the message for all children “you are a reader”!
Donations to support Ukraine
I’ve been asked where Higgler Coffee is in Axminster. It’s an excellent café on South Street, almost opposite the butcher’s, and they do very good tea too.
Learn Devon
I’m just over half way through learning how to use Photoshop Elements, doing a zoom course run by Learn Devon. This is a level 2 course which requires basic computer skills, but doesn’t assume any knowledge of photo editing software. The course is free, and you’ll get a free copy of Adobe Photoshop Elements 2022 to keep, worth about £90.
You’ll need a PC (preferably) or recent Apple computer or laptop (not a tablet) and the course is entirely online. It’s a 12-week course starting on April 27th, ending on July 27th with a break for half term. Lessons are 9:30 – 11:30 every Wednesday.
Simon Longstaff is the tutor, and he is excellent, very patient and knows the software backwards. This will be the last free level 2 course of this type that Learn Devon will be running. Financial support for this type of course is stopping in July. If you want to, you can also sign up for level 2 courses in Word, Excel and Powerpoint too, and get a whole wall full of certificates!
Follow this link to sign up –
https://www.learndevon.co.uk/course-details/course/ITB632/
Membury History Society
AGM 15th March
Stockland British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal Fundraiser
!! British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal Fundraiser !!
Please come and support our pop up charity cake stall
this SUNDAY, 6th March, 11am – 1pm in the skittle alley at The Kings Arms Stockland. Thank you Ben and the team for letting us set up there.
We will have lots of goodies to buy and you could even grab a coffee or a pint in the bar while you’re there.
If you can’t make it and would like to make a donation, or you could help with baking a cake, please contact Kim on 07742 661159.
Sustainable Stockland
Next meeting is Tuesday next week at 7pm in the Kings Arms. Come along and help save the planet one bit at a time – starting with East Devon!
Skills of the Hills
’Skills of the Hills’, the Blackdown Hills Hedge Association’s annual hedge event, takes place this Saturday at Cotley Farm, Wambrook, TA20 3EP. However, please note that this year the event is hedge-laying only. It is open to the public from 9.30a.m. Light refreshments will be available.
Yarcombe Market is Back!
Yarcombe Market returns to the Village Hall on Saturday 12th March, 10a.m. – 12 noon
We have a good number of stalls already: ● cakes, ● pies ● vegetables ● plants ● woodwork ● ironwork ● cards ● bric-a-brac ● toys, and more. ● Refreshments available as usual: enjoy a coffee and slice of delicious home-made cake with friends.
Please come and support the Yarcombe Village Market on Saturday 12th March!
News from Membury March 1st 2022
Donations to support Ukraine
Higgler coffee in Axminster is taking donations which will be given to a larger convoy heading to the Polish border on Friday.
We kindly ask for the following items by Thursday afternoon.
Baby formula, nappies and baby hygiene items.
Sanitary items.
Unopened creams such as sudacream.
Unopened roll on deodorant.
Clean bandages and packaged first aid items.
Due to space constraints in transit we are unable to take clothes, medication or opened toiletries.
Water Quality Monitoring
35 of us from Membury, Chardstock and Stockland attended a course today at the Village Hall run by the Westcountry Rivers Trust. You may see some of us every now and again dangling buckets off bridges and peering down long plastic tubes to determine what’s in our river water. Here are some things you can do to support our rivers.
News from Membury February 28th 2022
Axe Valley Mission Community
In response to the current situation in Ukraine, there will be a prayer vigil which will be held in the Minster on Wednesday 2nd March from midday until 7pm
Louise Collard AVMC Team Administrator 01297 441986
Membury Primary School
The toddler group will be running as usual tomorrow at 11:00
Aerial Predator
One of our keen-eyed locals has spotted a red-tailed hawk flying up near Bewley Down. She is pretty sure it isn’t a native bird, so she is wondering whether anyone local may have lost such a bird.
Membury Castle
An update from George Greenshields
“I am afraid it has not proved possible to start the Membury Castle work in February. I had a firm arrangement with Simon Hart of Hartwood to start on Friday 18th Feb but that proved ill-fated because of storm Eunice. We re-arranged for Thursday and /or Friday last week but Simon was still dealing with emergency road clearance following the storm and had to cancel.
I am really sorry not to have made a start on the work but we are aiming for an early start on the 1st September.”
Betty Welch from Stockland
Betty Welch from Stockland passed away aged 91 on 10th February. Having arrived in the village in 1986 many of the older residents of Membury may well have known her. She certainly played an active role in the community.
The funeral will be on Monday 7th March 14.00 at St Giles, Kilmington, and a reception afterwards at the King’s Arms. Flowers (to W.Potter, Axminster) or donations to RNIB.
Kings Arms Quiz night – this Wednesday
Don’t forget the Pub Quiz Night is on Wednesday, 2nd March. A slight adjustment to start time to give us time to get through the questions…Arrive 7.30pm for an 8.00pm start.
Ben & the team, Kings Arms, Stockland, 01404 881686
https://kingsarms.pub
https://www.facebook.com/groups/stockland
Nostalgic Cinema at The Beehive, Honiton
“Jailhouse Rock” starring Elvis Presley and Judy Tyler.
Friday 2nd March 14:00. £4.50 including a hot drink, biscuits and a chat.
Dementia Friendly Cinemas have proven to be very therapeutic for people with memory problems and their families. Besides engaging the brain and stimulating emotions, being part of an audience enjoying a film helps people with dementia and their carers to feel less isolated and also challenges the stigma associated with the condition.
All Nostalgic Cinema performances have subtitles to assist full enjoyment of the film by any members of the audience who are hard of hearing.
Whilst promoted as a dementia friendly screening, we hope anyone who loves the old films will come along for an afternoon of fond memories. Face masks are encouraged.
Also screening:
Belfast (12A) starring Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan, Ciarán Hinds, Caitríona Balfe
7.30pm Friday 4th March and a socially distanced screening at 4pm on Sat 5th March
Tickets: Adults £7.50, U16 £6.50
‘Possibly the most uplifting film ever made about a time of unending violence, Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast comes with a bruised heart and an unquenchable spirit of optimism.’ -Time Out
News from Membury February 27th 2022
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing February 28th
Monday February 28th
- Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
- Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 1st
Wednesday March 2nd
- Like Minds (Provisional) in the Village Hall. Time TBC
- Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 3rd
- Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
- Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 4th
- Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
- Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
- S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 5th
Sunday March 6th
- Holy Communion at Membury Church 11am
Week commencing March 7th
Monday March 7th
- Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
- Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 8th
- Moviola in the Village Hall: Pig. 7 for 7:30pm
Wednesday March 9th
- Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 10th
- Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
- Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 11th
- Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
- Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
- S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 12th
Sunday March 13th
- Morning Prayer at Membury Church TBC
Membury Mercury Advertisements February 2022
The weather has been a bit intense recently, and it’s quite possible that you’ll need some help straightening things up and getting everything tidy. Your local traders here can help!
Keep East Devon, and in particular Membury solvent – use locals.
The spring edition of the Mercury will be landing on your doorstep next week. The next deadline for submissions will be May 6th for the summer issue.
News from Membury February 25th 2022
East Devon District Council Residents’ Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30bb7f3
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30c454c
Membury Parish Council – New Clerk
Thank you to Bec Davey for all your hard work, and welcome to Ana Silson!
News from Membury February 24th 2022
Oak Apple Café
After the slight hiatus last week due to the weather we are back with a great menu.
- Caramelised Onion Quiche
- Sausage Rolls
- Leek and Potato Soup with Homemade Bread
- Date and Walnut Cake
- Chocolate Cake
It’s half term, so we’ll be open from 1:30pm until 3:30pm.
Loose Pig now reunited
Here is a picture of Merryn with much loved Peppa, Rosie is so grateful that they live somewhere where people care enough to look out for a lost little pig!
News from Membury February 22nd 2022 – Missing Animals
Missing Ram
A small brown two-year-old woolly ram called Derek has gone missing from Bracken where he was enjoying their lush pasture. If anyone sees him please call Suzie 07484 163901 and she will attempt to apprehend him
Pig Loose in the Village
There is a pig loose in the village. She is about 6 inches long and answers to the name of Peppa. She is currently tucked into the hedge by Orchard House, just down the road from me.
News from Membury February 21st 2022
100 Club Results
After due deliberation, the Oracle has declared that the winner of the 100 Club this month is Boudicca Fox Leonard who will pocket £30. £10 goes to Kerstin Langdon, and John & Sharon Steadman
Back-up phones
Several correspondents have pointed out that “old” phones will be obsolete in 2025 when the system that has worked well for decades is switched off. Let’s hope we get a decent mobile signal in this area before they flick the switch!
Frogspawn
Does anyone have any frogspawn yet?
While there’s wind …
It’s a good time for putting your washing on the line to dry it. Not only does it save your electricity bill, but it allows for some creativity. A prize for the best photograph of your washing drying!
Daisy’s Dairy
Daily milkshake specials starting today to tempt you at South Waterhayne Farm, Yarcombe
Monday – Blueberry
Tuesday – Biscoff
Wednesday – Rhubarb and Custard
Thursday – Irish Cream
Friday – Cherry
Wild East Devon News for Half Term
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30b3f67
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing February 21st
Monday February 21st
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
History Society Talk in the Village Hall 7 for 7:30pm
A Local WWII Mystery
Tuesday February 22nd
Wednesday February 23rd
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 24th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 25th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 26th
Sunday February 27th
Morning Prayer at Membury Church at 11am
Week commencing February 28th
Monday February 28th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday March 1st
Wednesday March 2nd
Like Minds (Provisional) in the Village Hall. Time TBC
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday March 3rd
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday March 4th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday March 5th
Sunday March 6th
Communion at Membury Church at 11am
News from Membury February 20th 2022
Openreach
You may have noticed that there is a branch pinning down a telephone/internet cable on the Axminster Road, just below the castle, and quite close to Starcross. I reported this to Openreach yesterday, and they have been out to review it today, but lacked the specialist equipment necessary to deal with it safely. Richard Pearse, on whose land it is, will be lifting the branch with a JCB prior to cutting it in the next few days after the wind has subsided. Openreach will then re-tension the cable. If you are in the area and experience a loss of service, please contact your telephone or broadband supplier directly.
Yellow warning of wind
As I said yesterday, it’s not over yet. We now have Storm Franklin and a yellow warning of wind from now until 13:00 on Monday. Please take care, and let me know of any road issues or other problems.
More windy statistics
Stephen Tetlow up at Oat Errish measured a gust peaking at 75mph yesterday at 11:15 – shortly before the electricity went off, preventing any further data recording. Did anyone record anything even faster?
Telephones
Dan Jaffé formerly of this parish has made a sensible suggestion from his new base in Hinton, where no power was lost. You can buy an old-fashioned corded telephone from Amazon (other exploitative retailers are available) for just over a tenner which will give you access to the phone network, even if there’s no electricity, and will make reporting problems to your provider much easier. Obviously, it will help you keep in touch with family, and get through to 999 directly as well should it prove necessary.
William Low Trust
The Merrymakers donated half of the money raised at the “Carols Round the Tree” event to the William Low Trust. Helen Forbes-Low writes:
“On behalf of The William Low Trust, thank you for the kind donation of £30. We are so deeply touched that you have given another donation to our trust in memory of our beautiful son William. Please send a big thank you to your committee.
We have our work cut out as we grow and develop the charity.
We are focusing on trying to fundraise to cover the costs of our PhD researcher, £43,000 a year! This is a huge amount and a huge goal for us. We have had our first update which is exciting as he started in Oct 2021.
We are also trying to design an App to support families when they get given a bag of medicines. I remembered feeling overwhelmed on returning home from hospital on how to coordinate these strong and complex medicines. I used to have to spend time creating spreadsheets (when all I wanted was a cuddle with William and a cup of tea) so I knew what needed to be given and when. Some families I work with just cannot manage this and then their child doesn’t get what they need in a timely way, so the child suffers – we feel the need to do something about this so we are trying to find App developers and linking in with Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Thanks again as every penny really counts!”
If anyone wishes to make further donations to the charity, or can help with the development of an app contact Helen via info@thewilliamlowtrust.org.uk
News from Membury February 19th 2022
Storm Eunice Update
Well, that was exhilarating. Greendown recorded a gust of 65MPH at 10:07 yesterday. Most, if not all, of us were without electricity for much of the day, and I believe that some people are yet to have their service restored. Our little camping stove came into its own! Thank you to those that sent me updates regarding trees and roads – but without electricity I was unable to pick them up until late in the evening. Well done Western Power for restoring at least some services ahead of their anticipated time.
Yellow warning of wind
It’s not over yet. We have a yellow warning of wind from 06:00 today to 18:00 today, and again from 12:00 tomorrow until 15:00 on Monday. Please take care, and let me know of any road issues or other problems.
East Devon District Council update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30a8b5c
Devon County Council update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30b3c6e
Trains
I am told that there are no trains or buses running from Axminster station until further notice
School Newsletter
Oak Apple CAfe – closed today
News from Membury February 18th 2022 – Storm Eunice Update
Post Office
The post office will be operating normally unless Mike can’t get here from Dalwood where he’ll be this morning.
Oak Apple Café
The café will be operating, possibly with a reduced service as normal, but may close early.
Membury School
The school is closed
S4YH
Sing for your Health this evening is cancelled.
Tree Reports
I’ve had a report of a tree down on Lewsley Lane, and another one on the Greendown Road, but Greendown at least doesn’t seem to be blocked – there’ll be more information when I get it. If you are aware of any issues affecting our roads please let me know with a precise location if possible, and an indication of whether the road is blocked or not
East Devon District Council Update on Eunice
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30b1abe
Devon County Council Update on Eunice
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/30b0dfd
News from Membury February 17th 2022
Moviola
The new audio-visual equipment made its public debut on Tuesday at the screening of “The Courier”. This was generously funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and allowed us to purchase a ceiling mounted HD projector, a Blu-ray player, a new mixer and a pair of fantastic new speakers all of which were supplied and installed by David Reed of RSD music and Tim Williams of TMW Electrical Contracting
We can now connect computers and other equipment from a socket adjacent to the screen, a socket adjacent to the equipment cupboard, and from in the cupboard itself. Moviola events and any presentations will be much brighter, sound will be crisper and there won’t be trip hazards from trailing wires.
Thank you, National Lottery,!
Café menu
Ceri, Martyn and Daniel are looking forward to welcoming you to the Oak Apple Café tomorrow afternoon 1:30pm – 4pm. Given the weather we really ought to be offering Jerusalem artichoke soup but instead we have …
- Carrot and coriander soup with homemade bread
- Stilton Tart
- Spicy Sausage Rolls
- Date and Walnut Cake
- Ginger and treacle spiced traybake
- Chocolate brownies
Please treat the weather conditions with respect, and only use your car to visit us if you are really hungry!
Once again, thank you to those people who have contributed by baking, and souping. Future contributions always welcome – just speak to one of the volunteers.
Mobile Library
The mobile library due to visit tomorrow afternoon is cancelled – due to the anticipated weather conditions. They are – in the words of Margaret Mitchell “Gone with the Wind”.
Billy Down’s Wartime Secret
A reminder that Captain Hugh May is limbering up to deliver the extraordinary story of how Membury was directly involved in WW2. Don’t miss his spectacular presentation at the village hall on Monday evening at 19:30. Cheese and wine will be served from 19:00.
100 club
The next draw for the 100 club takes place at the weekend. If you haven’t already bought your ticket you are unlikely to benefit for the life changing prizes on offer. To remedy this all you need to do is slip a tenner to David Neill at Hope Cottage (behind the village hall) or transfer the money directly to the Merrymakers (30-90-37 01560859 Membury Merrymakers).
Storm Dudley and storm Eunice
Highest recorded windspeed yesterday was 53mph at 14:21 recorded at Greendown.
The amber warning has been upgraded to a red warning on the north Devon coast, and the time the warning comes into force has been updated from 03:00 to 05:00. Please take care.
Tom Daley
Helen Forbes-Low captured this image of Tom Daley passing by Axminster yesterday. You can help him raise money for Red Nose Day here https://donation.comicrelief.com/?cartId=rnd22-tom-challenge
Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition
The world-renowned exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, is open at Seaton Tramway featuring exceptional images which capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breath-taking diversity of the natural world. Using photography’s unique emotive power to engage and inspire audiences, the images shine a light on stories and species around the world and encourage a future of advocating for the planet.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the most prestigious photography event of its kind, providing a global platform that showcases the natural world’s most astonishing and challenging sights for over 55 years. Launching in 1965 and attracting 361 entries, today the competition receives over 50,000 entries from all over the world, highlighting its enduring appeal. This year’s award-winning images will embark on an international tour that will allow them to be seen by well over a million people.
Exhibition Open:
11th February – 8th April 10am – 4pm (Last Entry 3:30pm)
Adults £5.50 children (up to 15yo) free
Devon and Cornwall Police
Witnesses and footage sought
Witnesses are sought after a man was seriously injured in a collision between two vans in Axminster on 15 February.
Emergency services were called at 3.40pm to the collision between a Mercedes Sprinter van and a Volkswagen Transporter van on The Trafalgar Way.
The driver of the VW van, a man in his 60s from Dorset, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Derriford Hospital.
The second driver, also a man in his 60s from Dorset, was uninjured.
Officers from the Roads Policing Unit attended alongside South West Ambulance Service and Devon Air Ambulance.
The road was closed for four hours for a specialist examination of the scene and recovery of the vehicles. Police would like to thank the public for their patience during the closure.
Officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision and asking for any witnesses or anyone who was in the area at the time to contact them. They would also like to hear from any driver who has relevant dashcam footage.
Please contact 101@dc.police.uk or telephone 101, quoting log number 553 of 15/02/22.
News from Membury February 16th 2022
Storm Eunice
The yellow warning for wind in our area has now been upgraded to an amber warning, in force between 03:00 on Friday and 21:00 on Friday.
Extremely strong winds may develop over southwest England early on Friday, before spreading north and east during the day. Whilst there is still some uncertainty in the track of Eunice, there is an increasing likelihood of widespread inland wind gusts of 60-70 mph and up to 80 mph in a few places. Around coasts of west Wales and southwest England, gusts of 90 or possibly even 100 mph are possible. Winds are expected to ease across western areas through the afternoon, and eastern areas during the evening.
What to expect
- There is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life
- Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
- Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
- There is a good chance that power cuts, possibly prolonged, could occur and possibly affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
- Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
- It is likely there will be falling branches and some uprooted trees
If you are aware of anything affecting Membury specifically, please let me know so I can share the information. Give me as accurate a location as possible – perhaps using a what3words location, and above all take care and don’t venture out unless you have to – unless of course you are coming to the Oak Apple Café!
All Saints Pantomime
Stop Press!!
ASPS presents Dick Twittington
No time to put off the decision because the weather’s bad!
Phone Barbara on 01297 35687 and book yourselves a good night out in the Village Hall on either Thursday 24th, Friday 25th or Saturday 26th February and watch lots of local people make fools of themselves.
We’re about to put on make-up
We’re going to light the lights
We’ll sing some silly songs
On all our Panto nights!
We’ve spoken to some folk who are still concerned and not decided due to the continued level uncertainty around Covid.
So, this year, if on the night you feel that you would still like to come along, we’re going to allow you to turn up and pay on the night.
However, to ensure good seats, book now.
Stockland Book Club
The next meeting is on Saturday 19th February at the Kings Arms – at 11 am. Please come along – lively discussion guaranteed; along with coffee and cakes- or a pint!
Our current book is the classic Anna Karenina by Tolstoy.
All welcome – for further information ring Paul Spencer 01404 881819.
Snowdrops
Sandra Capper’s snowdrops at East Membury Farm are magnificent at the moment, and for those of you who missed the viewing last weekend but would still like to see them, all you need to do is give her a ring (01404 881600) and arrange a time.
Citizens Advice
News from Membury February 14th 2022
Jubilee Bulletin no. 6
An alternative experience of meeting the Queen.
Jon Williets, of Furley, writes:
I am not sure it counts as meeting the Monarch, but in 1980 the Queen drove past the end of our road having just opened the new shopping centre in Tamworth. The village all trudged to the end of the road and the convoy slowed down and received the royal wave. As a slightly uncomfortable and self-conscious 11 year old I was not really sure that waving at her was a particularly ‘cool’ thing to do. I decided that shaking my fist (in a football-like celebratory way) was a better greeting for our monarch. My Mum disapproved of the chosen gesture and as the car drew level the Queen looked out of her window to see a small ginger haired boy receiving an almighty clip round the ear from his irate Mum.
Yellow Warning of Wind
Storm Eunice is on its way, and it’ll be here between 18/2/2022 00:00 and 18/2/2022 21:00.
Extremely strong winds may develop over southwest England early on Friday, before spreading north and east during the morning. It is not yet clear where within the warning area the strongest winds will be but gusts of 60-70 mph are possible over a reasonably large area with a small chance of a brief period of gusts reaching 80 mph even inland. Coastal winds are likely to be the strongest. In addition to the wind, there is the potential for a period of snow and perhaps blizzard conditions, most likely over northern England, parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and north Wales. However, this is very dependent on the track of the weather system and most places will see heavy rain instead.
Moviola
Come along to the village hall tomorrow night (Tuesday) at 7pm for 7:30 to see “The Courier” – an excellent film indeed. Tickets £6
In the shadow of the Cold War a letter from Oleg Penkovsky (Merab Ninidze) an agency of the Soviet Union received by MI6 stating the concern of Penkovsky about world safety and his anxiety about a nuclear war, So Emily Donovan (Rachel Brosnahan) a CIA Agent reached out to MI6 Agent Dickie Franks (Angus Wright), who recruited British salesman Greville Wynne (Benedict Cumberbatch) to be their spy.
This is the first outing for our new projector, BluRay player and speakers. Expect the very highest quality of presentation!
As always there’ll be refreshments including bottled Otter beer and Baboo Gelato, as well as wine, spirits and soft drinks.
“Hell of a Homecoming” Tour
Olympic gold medallist Tom Daley will be cycling through Axminster as part of an epic endurance challenge for Comic Relief.
To raise money for this year’s Red Nose Day, diving star Tom will be rowing, cycling, running and swimming his way from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford to his hometown of Plymouth.
Over four days, from today (Monday), Tom ‘Hell of a Homecoming’, will see him passthrough significant places and locations from his life, and he will be passing through Axminster this Wednesday, coming in on the A35 from Bridport to the Abbeygate junction, and then heading through Musbury, Colyford and on to Sidford.
It is thought he will come through Axminster between 3pm and 4pm, but you can track where he is on the interactive map here
News from Membury February 13th 2022
Roadworks
The road from Furley Cross to Challenger Cross will be closed on 16th February between 09:30 and 15:30 for Openreach works. The diversion route is shown here.
Openreach will also be responsible for work between Membury Cross and Clarence Cross 21st – 22nd February.
Birds Down Under
Jon and Cherry Wells write:
As it’s Valentine’s Day tomorrow, and in response to your request for garden bird sightings last week, here’s a pair of collared doves getting all lovey-dovey in our garden in New Zealand today! They are such friendly, peaceful and easily tamed creatures; we were pleased to see a pair were recorded in Membury last week. These two cuties turn up twice a day, morning and night, for a feed out of our hands and a bit of necking on the decking!
Jubilee Bulletin no. 5
Helen Neill writes:
I was introduced to the Queen in 2019 at the opening of a new research complex in Cambridge. I don’t think she was very interested in me, which is quite understandable. However, she did spend 2 hours on her feet talking to plant breeders and scientists about new cereal and fruit varieties. She struck me as a small bundle of energy, sharp witted and independent minded.
I wish we had more leaders like her!
Membury and District Local History Society
A Yarn of Yarcombe
Yarcombe Parish Council has funds available to produce and publish “An Illustrated History of the Yarcombe Inn”. Someone is needed to write it and compile illustrations. If you would be interested please contact Sarah-Jane Martin yarcombe.clerk@yahoo.com
Devon Wildlife Trust Online Events
Monday 14 February – Working in the Wild
Tuesday 15 February – How to become a citizen scientist
Tuesday 15 February – Peatland Restoration in the South West
Wednesday 16 February – Are our hedgerows in good health?
Daisy’s Dairy
We stopped off here on our way back from Cornwall. Milk was delicious!
Daisy’s Dairy, Yarcombe, EX14 9AX is open daily 6am-9pm for freshly pasteurised milk, produced by our cows here on farm.
We also have a choice of 8 different milkshakes, local eggs, butter, Davidstow cheddar, flapjacks and shortbread.
We have 1L and 500ml reusable glass bottles for sale, which just need to be washed at home between uses.
Our vending machines are simple to use and both take contactless card payments only. The syrups are 50p per flavour, paid for in cash into an honesty box.
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing February 14th
Monday February 14th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Village Hall Trustee Meeting in hall at 7pm
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday February 15th
Toddler Group at Membury School at 11am
Moviola: The Courier in the Village Hall 7pm for 7:30pm
Wednesday February 16th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 17th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 18th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 19th
Sunday February 20th
Church service in Membury Church: Communion at 11am
Week commencing February 21st
Monday February 21st
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
History Society Talk in the Village Hall 7 for 7:30pm
A Local WWII Mystery
Tuesday February 22nd
Wednesday February 23rd
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 24th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 25th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 26th
Sunday February 27th
Morning Prayer at Membury Church at 11am
A Flood Alert has been issued by the Environment Agency.
Flood Alert in force: River Axe area.
Flooding is possible for: Rivers Axe, Coly, Yarty, Umborne Brook and coastal streams from Branscombe to Axmouth.
Be prepared.
Flooding is possible during Sunday afternoon 13/02/2022. Heavy rainfall this morning and overnight in the River Axe area is causing river levels to rise. Bankfull conditions are expected with some localised riverside low lying land and roads flooding from 2pm on Sunday afternoon.
We expect rivers to remain high throughout Sunday afternoon with further scattered showers expected into Monday.
Take care near the areas of concern and monitor your local weather conditions.
We are constantly monitoring river levels and have staff in the area checking for and clearing blockages in this location. This message will be updated on Monday morning or earlier if the situation changes.
To check the latest information for your area
——————————————————-
* Visit the GOV.UK website to see the current flood warnings, view river and sea levels or check the 5-day flood risk forecast: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/target-area/113WABTW09
* Or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 using quickdial code: 211023.
* Follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.
* Tune into weather, news and travel bulletins on local television and radio.
News from Membury February 11th 2022
Jubilee Bulletin no.3
Have you ever met the queen? Send me your memories, and I’ll publish it here!
Thank you from Hospiscare
Money raised from the Christmas card, and the collection at the Carols round the Tree was donated to Hospiscare.
“From our team of doctors, nurses, support staff, volunteers and, most of all, the patients we care for, thank you for your recent kind donation of £344.00 on behalf of the Membury Merrymakers. Please pass on our thanks to everyone who helped raise this money which really does mean a lot to us.
This gift will help us to continue our specialist end-of-life care in the local community, helping people like Carol, who said:
“Hospiscare became my lifeline. They were always there for the both of us and they helped me to be brave.”
Without the generosity of people like you we could not be there for others, giving them and care and support and allowing them to spend their precious time making memories with those they love.
Your support is always important to us but never more so than it is right now in these uncertain times. Thank you for helping us be there for people when it matters most.
Best wishes, Karen Turner, Supporter Relationships Manager”
Seaton Music
The second half of the season gets under way in less than two weeks with the visit to Seaton on Thursday 24th February of the renowned Piatti Quartet, one of the most distinguished quartets of their generation. This is part of a tour which will also include concerts in Ipswich, Bournemouth and St Martin-in-the-Fields in London. They also have a new Hyperion CD coming out in April to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Vaughan Williams – a performance of his masterpiece ‘On Wenlock Edge’ with Nicky Spence (tenor), Julius Drake (piano) and Timothy Ridout (viola).
The programme includes some superb Purcell, Borodin and Beethoven. Tickets for non-members are available at the door at only £16 – cash only. (Please note the concert starts as usual at 7.30pm – not 3pm as the Membership Card unaccountably says!)
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/309f920
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30977be
Illegal Off-Road Riding
Special Constabulary Recruitment
Devon and Cornwall Police will be open for recruitment from the 31 January until the 6 March.
If you are looking for a new challenge? Wanting to make a difference in your community? then consider volunteering as a Special Constable?
On the 15 February we are holding a virtual awareness event which is an opportunity to find out more about the role and hear from some of our serving Specials about what it is like to be a Special.
If you would like to join the online event or would like to know more about becoming a Special Constable, please click on the link below.
https://recruitment-dcp-dp.org/devon-cornwall-volunteers/special-constables/
Jubilee Bulletin no.4
A Message from Cllr Ian Thomas, Chair of East Devon District Council
As you will undoubtedly be aware, 2022 will be a year-long programme of Platinum Jubilee celebrations throughout the United Kingdom, Commonwealth, and across the globe, to celebrate 70 years of service by Her Majesty The Queen. This remarkable achievement will be the first time a British Monarch will have celebrated a Platinum Jubilee.
This offers a focus for communities across East Devon and beyond to celebrate this unique milestone.
As Chair, my wish is that…
- We recognise the 70-year period of Her Majesty’s reign, in an enduring way.
- We work with each part of our District, from our smallest parish to largest town, recognising the special environment we share.
- Our contribution to celebrations is supportive of a key Council priority.
Our proposal, which I believe meets these objectives, is that our Council gift one of 70 oak saplings to each East Devon Town or Parish community.
The resultant special network across the district of commemorative oak trees, renowned for their longevity, strength, and unique position in the national landscape, will offer many other collective opportunities and serve as an important local ‘memory jogger’ recognising our Carbon Neutral and environment priorities.
We will supply and plant bare root specimens of Quercus Robur (common or English oak) at a size of 8-10cm girth (2-3 metres tall). Planting will include any necessary support stakes, protective rings to the base and watering duct, together with a commemorative plaque.
These need to be planted by mid March
To ensure we can reach out to all communities our only requirement is that the chosen site is suitable for an oak tree and accessible to members of the public.
Does anyone have a suggestion as to where our tree, should we apply for one, be planted? It needs to be on or very near a public footpath, or at least accessible. Do you have a suitale location? We need to get our application in as soon as possible.
Axminster Library Dyslexia Friendly Book Collection
For Children and Early Teens
As part of the local community, we always want to make sure we can help everyone enjoy and love reading
So, this week after a few months of hard work and collaborations with other libraries, we can proudly say we now have a selection of books for children/early teens that are dyslexia friendly.
As well as the titles we have here, we can get other titles from other libraries to help everyone enjoy reading, (when looking further we have over 500 titles by dyslexia friendly publishers), so please do come and ask us for help.
All children’s book reservations are completely free of charge
These great books are available for everyone to loan but have their own little area in our children’s library to make them easy to find!!
Happy Reading everyone!
Natalie, Rachel and Shelley – Librarians at Axminster Library
Membury School Newsletter and Toddler Group
News from Membury February 9th 2022
Jubilee Bulletin no. 1
National celebrations are planned over a 4-day weekend in early June. The usual late May bank holiday has been moved from the last Monday in May, and there will be an additional bank holiday to create a long weekend from Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th June.
At an open meeting on February 1st, 2022, a group of parishioners decided on a preliminary programme of events to include:
- Thursday June 2nd: Membury Beacon and Fireworks
- Friday June 3rd: Oak Apple Café special with classic car show
- Saturday June 4th: Live stream of Platinum Party at the Palace in the village hall, with pop-up pub and display by history society
- Sunday June 5th: Village Street party – Games/parade etc. Followed by a celebratory evensong in the church.
The Raucous Chorus will sing at a least one of these events.
In addition to daily events, we are hoping to have jubilee scarecrows, floral displays in the village and church and village bunting.
Several parishioners volunteered to help organise each event and we will be setting up additional meetings soon. Please contact one of the MerryMakers if you are interested in being involved.
Jubilee Bulletin no. 2
Classic Car Display
As just a small part of Membury’s contribution to the Queens Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June, it’s planned to have a display of classic, old or just unusual cars, tractors and motorbikes in the Village car park on Friday 3rd June to coincide with the Cafe’s opening times of 1.30 to 4pm.
Furthermore, the cafe will be running a 1950’s theme on that day – more details to follow – but feel free to dig out those flat caps, baggy-trousered suits – or maybe you prefer the teddy-boy look !!
As space in the car park is limited, please register your interest with me beforehand.
Email me at minijohns@hotmail.com & let me know what vehicle(s) you’d be bringing along.
I look forward to hearing from you – John Hodge
Fare Car – subsidised lifts to Axminster and Chard
Did you know that the F11 Fare Care lift service provides transport from the Stockland area to either Axminster or Chard? It is a set fare of £2.80 per single trip. See details below or more info on the Travel Devon website.
Ornithological Musings
From Tony Marsh, 6th February 2022
Early February. A bright, breezy morning after over-night rain. A jay is stabbing busily into the grass. It is feeding on acorns, their winter’s sustenance. Surprisingly perhaps that during last week’s Big Garden Birdwatch none of us reported seeing a jay. In our garden, it’s the acorns, shed in the autumn by the big oak trees overhead, that are the attraction. Apparently jays collect acorns into larders to get them through the winter, thereby helping to spread oaks over a wider area. In this case, I think our failure to tidy up the grass thoroughly before the winter was rewarded by the sight at close quarters of this flamboyant but shy bird, that we see usually only fleetingly, when it disappears into the trees, screeching raucously.
Turn Lyme Green
Cinechard
Cinechard is screening “The Last Duel” at Holyrood Academy on Friday 11th, 7pm for 7:30pm. In a departure from their normal range of films this has an 18 certificate and runs for 2 hours and 32 minutes. I thought it would be worth posting some more information on the certification:
Sex and nudity: severe
Violence and Gore: severe
Profanity: moderate
Alcohol, drugs and smoking: mild
If you want more details on the above have a look at the IMDB entry, but there are spoilers.
Starring Matt Damon, Adam Driver and Jodie Comer, “The Last Duel” is based on the true story of France’s last trial by combat in the Middle Ages. Knight Jean de Carrouges challenges his former friend Jacques Le Gris to a duel after Jean’s wife Marguerite accuses Le Gris of rape. Told in multiple “Rashomon-style” points of view.
Snowdrops
Sandra Capper at East Membury Farm would like to invite you to Snowdrop viewing this Friday Saturday Sunday 10 30 to 3pm. Small donation to Ninth Wave Global appreciated.
Pop along to see the wonderful snowdrops, the first signs of spring and of brighter days to come!
It’s nearly Christmas …
SEND IN YOUR CHRISTMAS CARD IMAGES TO SUPPORT ARC …
Christmas will come !! Yes very early, but time for you to find your entries for the ARC 2022 CHRISTMAS CARDS. Last year your designs and your purchases helped Arc raise about £2000 and every pound raised has gone to help more members of our community get the help they need.
It is time to get ready for the upcoming season, I need photos, sketches, paintings, any imagery that would make lovely cards. Local images do very well and do images of animals and of course those which depict the Meaning of Christmas ….. so please get creative and get some beautiful entries to me by May 1st 2022. (Artworks will be returned).
The entries will then be judged and we will select 6-8 winners.. the images will then be used for the Arc Christmas Cards and your name will be credited on the cards.
All submissions should be sent to Arc via admin@arcaxminster.org
Axminster Country Market
i everyone , we will be open again tomorrow ( 10th Feb ) . 9-12
Please spread the word to support us , we will have a selection of :-
Home grown produce
Craft
Eggs
Delicious cakes and savouries
Jam
Honey
We will be serving tea and coffee (70p) with a piece of cake ( £1.20 )
News from Membury February 6th 2022
Week commencing February 7th
Events In Membury
Monday February 7th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday February 8th
Toddler Group at Membury School at 11am
Membury Parish Council Meeting in the Village Hall at 7:30pm
Wednesday February 9th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 10th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 11th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 12th
Sunday February 13th
Week commencing February 14th
Events In Membury
Monday February 14th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Village Hall Trustee Meeting in hall at 7pm
Bellringing at Membury Church at 7:30pm
Tuesday February 15th
Moviola: The Courier 7pm for 7:30pm
Wednesday February 16th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 17th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 18th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-3:30pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 19th
Sunday February 20th
Church service in Membury Church: Communion at 11am
News from Membury February 4th 2022
Some of you may have spotted the deliberate error in the date at the top of the message I sent out yesterday. Sorry about that.
Devon County Council Update
Case levels in Devon remain high (1,235 per 100,000 of population) and above the national average (1,069 per 100,000 of population) across all age groups, but especially among young people. Cases are currently highest in the Exeter area. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/308f516
East Devon District Council update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/308e220
Devon and Cornwall Police
Unfortunately, over recent weeks, we have had a number of reports where sheep have been chased and attacked or killed by dogs.
This can be very upsetting for all those involved.
Livestock worrying is a criminal offence.
Action could be taken against you and your dog.
Please be a responsible dog owner.
This means knowing where your dog is and managing its behaviour.
If livestock are present – keep it on a lead. (But release if chased by cattle.)
If you see livestock worrying occurring, please report it.
Use 999 if ongoing
otherwise use 101 or 101@dc.police.uk
Thank you. PC Whitting, Rural Affairs Team
Axminster Change for Lyme Regis
One for you railway buffs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnBWRFaajlc
School Newsletter
News from Membury February 3rd 2022
A moan from a responsible dog owner
On behalf of all the responsible dog owners in the village, I am asking if the dog owner who uses bright green poo bags, please take said, filled bag home with them? Please do not expect others to do it for you. Your dog, your responsibility. Thank you.
Membury Parish Council
Councillors are summoned and members of the public are invited to attend the Council Meeting of Membury Parish Council, to be held in the Membury Village Hall on Tuesday 8 th February 2022 at 7:30pm to discuss the following matters:
RDavey, Clerk to the Council
AGENDA
- Welcome:
- Apologies for Absence:
- Declarations of Interest under the Code of Conduct: Councillors are reminded of the need to declare any interests either at this stage of the meeting, or as soon as they become aware of the interest. The reason for the declaration must be given, and whether it is a personal or pecuniary interest; any actions they intend to take when the item is being dealt with
- Minutes: To adopt the minutes of the meeting held on 23rd November 2021 and 11th January 2022 as a true record.
- County and District Council Reports:
- Highways Matters:
- Finance:
- a) To approve the financial statement for January 2022
- b) To review the third quarter budget for 2021/2022
- c) To consider grant request from TRIP
- d) To consider subscription to Blackdown Hill Parish Network
- e) To consider and approve Playing Field Grass Cutting Contract
- f) To consider grant application from Membury Merrymakers for £550 towards the cost
of the production of the Membury Mercury magazine
g) To approve the following payments:
Mrs R Davey Clerks’ Salary – November BACS £339.70
HMRC Clerks’ Tax – November BACS £ 10.00
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting Contract – December STO £150.00
BT Group Broadband – December DD £ 32.40
Exe-Squared Ltd Website Hosting BACS £144.00
DALC New Councillors Course – Cllr Lakhani-Robinson BACS £ 48.00
Membury Village Hall Hall Hire Sep – Dec BACS £ 12.00
Mrs R Davey Clerks’ Salary – December BACS £339.70
HMRC Clerks’ Tax – December BACS £ 10.00
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting Contract – January STO £150.00
BT Group Broadband – January DD £ 32.40
SLCC Training Courses – Clerk BACS £ 27.00
Mrs R Davey Clerks’ Salary – January BACS £339.70
HMRC Clerks’ Tax – January BACS £ 10.00
Mr D Noyes Clerk Advertisement BACS £247.20
Other payments may arise for payment during the meeting
- Planning:
New Applications for consideration: 21/2902/FUL | Caravan Park Farm Membury Axminster Retention of existing agricultural workers mobile home. These amendments relate to additional information relating to proposed landscape planting and finished paint colour of residential unit – plans received by EDDC on 31 January 2022.
Current Application updates: 21/2093/FUL & 21/3101/FUL & 21/3102/FUL|Erection of polytunnel for agricultural storage and livestock housing – Park Farm Membury Axminster EX13 7TB – Approved with conditions.
- Bonds Lane:
- Playing Field Fence Repairs & Quaker Memorial Ground Maintenance:
- Community Shop – Cllr Lakhani-Robinson:
- Membury Hill Fort:
- CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) monies:
- Jubilee Celebrations; Donation to Merrymakers:
- Clerking position:
- Alex Tasker:
- Parish Councillor Reports:
- Clerks Report:
- Correspondence:
- Public Forum:
Date of the Annual Parish meeting: 05.04.2022
Clerk to the Council Vacancy
Parish Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, Membury Parish Council
Our present clerk/RFO is resigning in February 2022 due to her other work commitments. As a result, we are recruiting for a new Parish Clerk.
Membury parish council is an active council which holds scheduled meetings 8 times a year and ad hoc meetings when required. The clerk will be required to work from home. The working hours are 7 hrs per week and the salary is in accordance with the NALC pay scales (SCP 7 – 12) depending upon experience.
The person appointed will need excellent computer skills (preferably Word 10) and a good knowledge of accounting procedures as well as an ability to deal with members of the public, an ability to take Minutes and set out and distribute Agendas. The clerk will be expected to deal with various matters relating to the smooth running of the parish council and queries raised by councillors. A CILCA qualification or willingness to undertake this qualification would be advantageous.
The outgoing clerk may be available to assist with a handover and so we are looking to appoint the new clerk in a short timescale.
Applications should be made by email to
clerk@membury.eastdevon.gov.uk addressed to Mr David Noyes, Parish Councillor Membury, attaching an up-to-date CV.
Closing date: Wednesday 9th February 2022.
New Highway Code Rules
I was turning left yesterday at a junction, I stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross the road, and I was loudly hooted, so here is a reminder of what the new rules are from the RAC.
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/legal/new-highway-code-rules-what-you-need-to-know/
Water Quality Monitoring
A group of us met yesterday for some on-the-job training in water quality monitoring on the Yarty, up by Longbridge. Vicky and Paul from Chardstock Eco Group demonstrated how to do it, and prevented anyone falling in. You’ll be pleased to hear that at that point the river was in pretty good shape, with few phosphates and low dissolved solids. We’ll be monitoring it at various locations over the coming months.
It’s the All Saints Pantomime
Oh no it isn’t! Oh yes it is!
Book your tickets for Dick Twittington, 24th, 25th, 26th February
Tickets £6 (£3 under 16) from Barbara Foulkes 01297 35687
News from the skies
Alasdair was wondering if anyone else spotted the Red Kite hanging around the Webble Green, Furley area yesterday afternoon. It spent about half an hour around the house before moving south down the valley. This morning it was perched on a pole in a field below me near the Yarty. What will our buzzards make of this?
New Toddler Group
The new toddler group met at the school on Tuesday. They’ll be meeting again next week – bring your children or grandchildren along!
Jubilee Meeting
We had 20 people at the meeting on Tuesday evening, and several other people got in touch during the day, so all in all it was very encouraging!
We identified events for each of the 4 days, with people volunteering take a role in coordinating on each day.
Watch out for more information soon
Oak Apple Café
Come and visit us at the hall on Friday between 1:30 and 3:30.
The menu this week is:
- Vegan sausage rolls
- Pork sausage rolls
- Roasted tomato and red pepper soup
- Victoria Sponge
- Coffee and walnut cake
- Plum Frangipane Tart
Wordles too easy for you?
Try Nerdles. https://nerdlegame.com/
Does anyone here remember Rambling Syd Rumpo?
Oscar is back
Barry and Pauline write:
Many thanks to all the kind people for their offers of help. GOOD NEWS Oscar has had his operation and is now returned to us. They called him their ‘Star Patient’. We are still isolating but will soon be back to ‘normal’.
News from Membury January 31st 2022
Any more birds for any more?
2nd Mercury Reminder
Only a few days to go until the copy deadline, this Friday, February 4th, and we’re still waiting for the flood of interesting reports/information about this lovely village.
We’re especially anxious to receive those special family recipes – savoury, sweet, cakes or snacks – under your own name, or a pseudonym, if you prefer. If it comes from another writer, please acknowledge, as Patricia always did. Please send to mbrymcry@gmail.com asap! Looking forward to hearing from you.
The Editorial team.
Jubilee Meeting Reminder
19:00 in the village hall tomorrow. Come along to find out what is being planned, and how you can help. Fancy a street party? I think we all need one! It’s the Chinese New Year, and it’s the year of the Tiger. The Tiger is associated with Bravery, Courage and Strength – come and display your talents at the hall!
Annual Footpath Survey
Our footpath warden is Paul Nicholson and the teams of Membury Trudgers have (or will) be reporting defects on the footpaths and bridleways of the parish to him, for forwarding on to East Devon. If you spot something like a missing sign, bear trap or bottomless pit please let him know paulnicholson1959@me.com
If you have any concerns with Yarcombe paths please contact caroline@landowninginitiatives.co.uk, and for Stockland issues write to amanda.thompkins@stocklandpc.org.uk
Moviola
Membury Moviola are showing “The Courier” on Tuesday 15th at 19:00 for 19:30 in the village hall. Tickets £6 as usual. This will be the first use of our new projector and speakers. Both the sound quality and the pictures are significantly better than they were last year. This is your Community Cinema – come along and keep it alive!
There will be wine, soft drinks and bottled Otter Bright (£3 for 500ml) to slake your thirst, and delicious Baboo Gelato for the interval.
In the shadow of the Cold War a letter from Oleg Penkovsky (Merab Ninidze) an agency of the Soviet Union received by MI6 stating the concern of Penkovsky about world safety and his anxiety about a nuclear war, So Emily Donovan (Rachel Brosnahan) a CIA Agent reached out to MI6 Agent Dickie Franks (Angus Wright), who recruited British salesman Greville Wynne (Benedict Cumberbatch) to be their spy.
This film is based on a true story.
What’s on at the Beehive
From our Stockland and Honiton Correspondent:
Coming up this Saturday 5th Feb at the Beehive a really fab tribute act- ‘The Sound of Springsteen’
I’m a bit snooty about tributes but this band come very highly recommended and if you listen to them on the box office link I think you’ll agree that they sound very much like the real deal!
With an absolute passion for the work of ‘The Boss’, this 8 piece tribute band ‘The Sound Of Springsteen’ bring their experience of years of live performance and recording to rock you with Bruce Springsteen’s greatest hits. Including songs like Born In The USA, Glory Days, Streets of Philadelphia and many more, this is a fantastic, faithful homage to Springsteen.
Oh yeah ’Tramps like us Wendy we were born to run!’-See you there!
Link with full details and to book. https://thebeehive.savoysystems.co.uk/TheBeehive.dll/TSelectItems.waSelectItemsPrompt.TcsWebMenuItem_1529.TcsWebTab_3773.TcsProgramme_709567
Also just to give you the heads up we have the new West Side Story (12A) starring Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Ariana DeBose and Rita Moreno on Sat 12th Feb.
At 4pm there is a socially distanced screening and then a regular show at 7.30pm.
A new adaptation of the beloved stage musical (and a loving tribute to its 1961 big-screen iteration) from director Steven Spielberg and Pulitzer Prize-winning screenwriter Tony Kushner, West Side Story follows two teenagers from different ethnic backgrounds who fall in love in 1950s New York City. As their romance intensifies, they find themselves drawn into the heart of a conflict between two warring gangs.
Mr. Spielberg did not waste his time-or ours. The new West Side Story is simply fabulous. – Observer
Tickets: Adults £7.50, U16 £6.50
Six Nations Rugby at the Kings Arms
We are pleased to say that the Six Nations rugby will be shown on the big tv in the skittle alley – the first match is this Saturday, 5th Feb at 2.15pm.
Also, live music on Sunday afternoons continues… 3-5pm.
News from Membury January 30th 2022
And the results are trickling in …
|
|
Goddards |
Rock Farm |
Haccombe |
|
Blackbird |
2 |
2 |
6 |
|
Blue tit |
2 |
2 |
4 |
|
Bullfinch |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Chaffinch |
4 |
1 |
5 |
|
Coal tit |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
Collared dove |
2 |
||
|
Crow |
2 |
||
|
Dunnock |
1 |
4 |
|
|
Goldfinch |
4 |
1 |
12 |
|
Great tit |
4 |
3 |
1 |
|
Greenfinch |
5 |
||
|
Grey wagtail |
1 |
||
|
Gt Spotted Woodpecker |
1 |
1 |
|
|
House sparrow |
1 |
6 |
|
|
Long tailed tit |
2 |
1 |
2 |
|
Magpie |
2 |
||
|
Marsh tit |
1 |
||
|
Nuthatch |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Pheasant |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Pied wagtail |
1 |
||
|
Robin |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
Siskin |
2 |
||
|
Song thrush |
1 |
||
|
Song thrush |
1 |
||
|
Stock dove |
1 |
||
|
Tree creeper |
1 |
||
|
Wood pigeon |
1 |
1 |
4 |
|
Wren |
1 |
Jubilee Meeting
Please don’t forget that there’ll be a meeting in the village hall on Tuesday at 7pm to plan activities celebrating the Jubilee at the beginning of June. All ideas welcome, all people welcome!
Suthering
If you came to the “From Devon With Love” festival in September you will have heard Suthering (Julu and Heg) sing for us, and it was stunning. They are releasing their first album “If We Turn Away” on February 25th, but if you visit https://suthering.bandcamp.com/album/if-we-turn-away you can you can listen to a couple of the tracks immediately. Beautiful close harmony folk singing
V.C.C.R. rally – another perspective
Barbara and Duncan Mackinder write:
Since we have lived here, the rally has gone right past our house most years and we have never had any problem with it. We always receive written notice and don’t find it intrusive, one household member having slept through several of the rallies. Three years ago, we were driving home late at night and met some rally cars en route, each of which pulled out of our way without hesitation, to let us pass.
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing January 31st
Monday January 31st
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
MerryMakers Committee Meeting at 7pm in Village Hall
Tuesday February 1st
NEW! Toddler Group at Membury School at 11am
Queens Jubilee Celebration: everyone is invited to a Planning Meeting at 7pm in Village Hall. We welcome your views on how we should celebrate.
Wednesday February 2nd
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 3rd
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 4th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 5th
Sunday February 6th
Church service in Membury Church at 11am
Week commencing February 7th
Monday February 7th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Tuesday February 8th
Membury Parish Council Meeting in the Village Hall at 7:30pm
Wednesday February 9th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 10th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 11th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 12th
Sunday February 13th
News from Membury January 28th 2022
Membury Castle
Further update on Castle trees from Tree Wardens:
Upon receipt of letters from constituents, MP Neil Parish has written to Historic England querying the lack of community consultation in the planning of the work at the Hill Fort and asking for survey evidence that shows there will be no increased risk of flooding in the valley below.
Additional information about the site meeting on Weds 26th. The Tree Wardens were informed that all the scrub would be cleared and then treated with Glyphosate. The Hollies and Birch trees being felled (up-to 150, no more than 30% of the total canopy) were to be chopped at the base and then treated with a chemical to ensure they did not re-grow. If anyone walks up the paths in the next week or so they will see yellow dots on trees to be felled and red dots on trees to be saved for habitats. The site would be cleared to ensure no new trees would seed, so that as the remaining mature oaks etc died with time, Historic England would achieve the long term aim of restoring a tree-less, grassed hill top as seen on ancient plans.
Up to 35 Trees on the sloping northern tree lined old hedge boundary below the Castle will be chopped or coppiced, the hedge bank rebuilt and hedging saplings planted.
Pews News Plus
We are delighted to let you know that the AVMC Team Service from Uplyme will be livestreamed so even if you can’t make it in person you can still join us in worship.
Please use the link below to access.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCclQWLSAS49TN4ACnJTeFIQ
Louise Collard, AVMC Team Administrator 01297 441986
School Newsletter
Big Garden Birdwatch
It’s the start of the Big Garden Bird Watch today! Join the RSPB and thousands of nature enthusiasts as they help monitor how our birds are faring. Whether you have a balcony, garden or local park, everyone can take part!
Here’s a useful guide to our most common birds
Devon County Council Update
Case rates in Devon, already very high, (1,008 per 100,000 of population) are starting to rise again, and are similar to the national average (1,004 per 100,000). Case rates are highest and increasing most rapidly among young people aged 0 to 19, and are also increasing in those aged between 30 and 50. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/307f81b
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3073faa
Devon and Cornwall Police
There has been a theft of a number of catalytic converters from vehicles on a garage forecourt in Honiton overnight on Tuesday 25 January 2022 – CR/007385/22.
Police are asking residents and businesses to review their security in relation to their vehicles and to report any suspicious activity to police, particularly around vehicles and industrial estates late at night.
Please phone 999 if you believe a crime is taking place, anyone with information is asked to please email 101@dc.police.uk or phone 101.
Forde Abbey Snowdrop Weekends
It’s the season for rosy cheeks, misty mornings and frosted beauty. The snowdrops are a few weeks behind but starting to make an appearance, so why not beat the Winter blues and come explore the gardens on the weekends in February.
Alternatively, you could just wander round Membury in a week or two – I think we must have half the world’s stock of snowdrops on our doorsteps.
Axminster Medical Practice
Don’t forget that pill and tablet blister packs can be recycled via the medical practice.
Old inhalers should be handed to reception, and unused medicines taken to the dispensary.
Missed out on the latest internet thing?
Have you been having a go at the daily wordle puzzle? If you’ve been enjoying them, but have only just caught on, you can find all the old ones at the wordle archive here:
https://www.devangthakkar.com/wordle_archive/?222
I managed the wordle today in 4 – which is about my average.
News from Membury January 26th 2022
Membury Castle
David Noyes writes:
As agreed at the Extraordinary Parish Council meeting, a follow up site meeting was held up on the castle this morning. Present were representatives from Historic England, Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty and Ecologic Consultants as well as Jan Lazar and Helen Neill in their capacity as Tree Wardens and Patrick White and David Noyes. The Tree Wardens had also invited Michael Davis, a local chartered landscape architect, to attend. The project team made clear that though this was not a formal consultation, they had listened to the concerns raised at the EPCM and had reviewed how many trees would need to be cut down to remove the site from Historic England’s Sites at Risk Register. As a result, they said that they had reduced the requirement from 200 trees as set out in the felling licence to less than 150. The project team emphasised that they would seek to strike the right balance between doing enough work to preserve the archaeological monument as well as being mindful of the ecology and landscape of the site. There was some discussion around other examples of this approach such as Woodbury and Hembury castles.
The site was then walked. It was confirmed that all the large trees, in particular the oaks, will be retained. Any ash trees that are showing signs of dieback will be removed. The remaining trees that will be removed will be some but not all of the smaller species trees, such as holly, birch and hawthorn. It was confirmed that some log piles will be left on site. Discussion then moved to the restoration of the hedge to the north of the site. Here it was confirmed that initially some of the existing trees will be coppiced, again ash trees showing signs of dieback will be removed and the existing bank will be built up. This work will take place this spring. The bank will then be allowed to settle. In the autumn, the hedge will be planted with 600 saplings. Work will start, weather allowing, in the middle of February.
The Eagle has Landed!
If you were watching Winter Watch on BBC2 today you will have been aware that in North Norfolk Michaela Strachan was excited to see a white-tailed eagle. This was “our” eagle – that spent considerable time here and in Yarcombe over last winter. He left us and headed to Norfolk where he lingered before heading off to Scotland for a few months. He’s now gone back to Norfolk and was filmed there earlier today.
Big Garden Bird Watch
The Big Garden Birdwatch takes place at the weekend
In 2021, more than one million people took part in Big Garden Birdwatch, all coming together to look out for birds. Why not join in and be one in a million for 2022?
Shockingly, we’ve lost 38 million birds from UK skies in the last 50 years, so it really is vital we do all we can to look after our birdlife.
Taking part is as easy as 1,2,3
1. Watch the birds around you for one hour
2. Count how many of each species of bird lands on your patch
3. Go online and tell us what you saw
Sign up here to find out more and to take part. https://www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/activities/birdwatch/birdwatch-take-part/
Last year along with submitting results of your count online, many people sent them to me for publication – and we had a good number of species recorded in the parish. I’d be delighted if you’d like to do this again this year, and I’ll collate the results.
River Quality Monitoring
A small group of locals along with people from Chardstock and Stockland attended a meeting this afternoon to discuss water quality monitoring in the Yarty, the Kit and the Corry. If anyone else is interested in volunteering to help survey for nitrates, phosphates and invertebrates please let me know.
Highway Code
Just a reminder that the Highway Code is changing on 29 January. You can rad all about it here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-highway-code-8-changes-you-need-to-know-from-29-january-2022
Sustainable Stockland
Just a quick note to invite you along to the next meet-up of our Sustainable Stockland environment group – next Tuesday, 1st Feb at 7pm in the Kings Room at the Kings Arms, Stockland. Hopefully those of you who came to our December get together will have had a chance to consider some of the ideas we discussed as it would be great to decide as a group whether there is any appetite for choosing one or two projects for the group to aim for in 2022.
We even have a little agenda 🙂
- Stockland Great Castle tree felling plans
Ken Pearson, Clerk to the Parish Council has asked us to take a look at the upcoming plans to fell an area of woodland around the listed archaeological site of Stockland Great Castle. I’ll bring along the info and we can have a quick chat. Also to discuss the same works planned for Membury Castle. …and a small related matter of the Parish Council being keen to find a new Tree Warden… any takers? - Local River Quality Monitoring
I’m delighted to say that Vicky Whitworth from Chardstock Eco Group will be joining us to talk about her experiences of running the Chardstock village environment group, and in particular, how she is involved in river quality monitoring on the River Kit – she’ll be bringing along her testing kit and telling us what’s involved. There are a few sites on the Yarty and the Corry Brook that need cover and I’m keen to give it a go – training and kit is provided. Would anyone else like to volunteer with me? - (At least) Two for 2022!
Looking at our fabulous list of ideas from last meeting, what does the group want to focus on for 2022? Perhaps one or two ‘easy win’ projects that might be easy to implement, plus a more chunky, ambitious project to get our teeth stuck into. Grateful for your thoughts, bring your ideas…
Best wishes, Claire Holgate
Fudge!
Lucy Pearse – who brought Father Christmas to Membury – makes fudge.
Her fortnightly fudge sale is now live this evening and she can deliver locally.
Tonight’s fudge
- Millionaire trays over 1kg of fudge £10.
- Bars of fudge are £2.50 min 100g
- Raspberry ripple
- Bubblegum
- Cream tea
- Trifle
- Salted caramel
- Crunchie rocks
- Lotus biscoff
- Vanilla
Please join the group to see availability.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2411678215822957/?ref=share_group_link
News from Membury January 25th 2022
Oak Apple Café
The café will be serving from 13:30 to 15:30
The menu for this week is:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Sausage rolls
- Mediterranean cheese scones
- Coconut, lime and cardamom cake
- Orange and gooseberry traybake
- Shortbread
Membury Mercury Advertiser
There’s a new advertiser who wasn’t included in the list of advertisers I sent out the other day. Mark lives at Longbridge – so he’s not far away if you need him!
Membury Local History Society
Mercury Reminder
There’s now less than a fortnight until the copy deadline for the Spring issue of the Mercury. Regular contributors have already been sent their regular reminder, but we welcome contributions from other readers, too.
We’re looking especially for recipes, this time. As you will know, Patricia Bruzon, fount of all culinary knowledge, no longer lives in Membury, so we are relying on all the other cooks out there – we have heard of your expertise!– to share their knowledge. Your recipe can be for sweet or savoury dishes, cakes or snacks, and if there is a story to share with them, so much the better, though not at all obligatory. If you are shy of publishing under your own name, we’re happy to accept a pseudonym. As we always say, this is your magazine and we rely on your input. Articles, as always to the Mercury e-mail: mbrymcry@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
The Editorial team
Wanted!
Cotton material – red, white or blue in plain or pattern, suitable for the Arts and Craft group to make into bunting for the celebrations. Please bring to the hall on a Thursday afternoon or hand to any member of our group. Thank you.
Car Rally Petition
I posted a message about a car rally that took place a week and a half ago, although I believe that not much of Membury was affected directly. Stockland had a much worse time, and this entry is reproduced for their treemail.
STOCKLAND PARISH V.C.R.R. NAVIGATIONAL CAR RALLY 15th-16th January 2022 (2 hour projected time slot)
A V.C.R.R. Rally was held in the Parish from 15th-16th January 2022 (23.20 – 0.100). The organisers stated the Rally would run from 23.20 – 01.00 hours. The Rally did not finish until 2.15 a.m. Residual heavy traffic was still leaving the Parish at 4.00a.m. 55 motors took part in the Rally covering 150 miles around the single circuit. Simple mathematics would demonstrate that the time slot of 2 hours was insufficient. Whilst the rally was permitted by Section 13 of the Road Traffic Act (1988) the rationale for holding it in the Stockland Parish seems unjustifiable on the following grounds:
- disregard of the AONB status;
- excessive continuous noise;
- emissions pollution;
- continuous intrusive rally lights;
- household disruption;
- lack of notification;
- lack of safety awareness – no signage;
- current state of the Parish roads/damage assessment/payment;
- endangering wildlife at night;
- disturbing farm stock;
- possible blocking of any emergency services arising (local housing need);
- finally – what are the benefits to the Parish of any such event?
A Petition objecting to the Rally with the above concerns listed is circulating in the Parish. If you feel affected by the above please support it with your signatures.
Many thanks,
Barbara Dunkley 01404 881692/Gill Metcalfe 01404 881204
New Toddler Group
Membury Primary Academy would like to invite parents and toddlers to a Toddler Group next Tuesday 1st February from 11am-12pm. This session will have a Chinese New Year theme! We hope to make this a regular session and we would love to meet our local toddlers and parents. If you would like any further details, or have questions, please call the office on 01404 881491 or email memburyoffice@acornacademy.org
Thank you, Miss Wickens
Axminster Printing Special Offers
A happy new year from the Membury Mercury – distributed free to every household in Membury.
News from Membury January 23rd 2022
Starlings
Small murmurations of starlings have been seen in Membury several times over the last week just as dusk is falling – up to 100 birds or thereabouts. I haven’t managed to spot exactly where they are roosting, but they can be seen from the road just north of the village hall.
Axminster Community Shed
A warm welcome to our Shed
A place where men and women with a bit of time to spare can chat, connect and create. Sheds are popular right across the UK as a haven where you can meet like-minded people and make new friends while also using your skills to help your community. You can also learn new stuff and, most importantly, go home feeling content. Go on – give us a try!
Axminster Guildhall
The Axminster Guildhall is looking for a team of Front of House Volunteers to help us with all the shows and events that are coming this year. If interested please contact info@axminster-guildhall.co.uk
Axminster Guildhall Again
Don’t forget: Next week is Comedy Week at The Axminster Guildhall.
Come and join the fun on Tuesday January 25th at 7:30pm
We are launching our new Monthly Comedy Night, Giggle at the Guildhall, featuring comedians Tom Glover, Christian Russell-Pollock and Suzy Bennett. Tickets are very limited, but some are still available at £7 for the evening or £15 for January, February and March. Also, we have now just released tickets for April, May and June – still at £7 or £15 for all three!
Learning to Read
From Ruth Foster:
Are you a Repair Shop fan? Jay Blades, the programme’s celebrity furniture restorer, is in the news this week. He’s been talking about how he used to be one of the UK’s 7 million adults who struggle to read.
In our area we are lucky to have a local branch of Read Easy, the national charity that helps adults with poor literacy skills. Read Easy provides free, one to one coaching, so that adults who missed out at school can learn at their own pace without embarrassment or pressure.
If you know anyone locally who would benefit from Read Easy’s help, they or you can call Sheila: 01297 552 847 or email Sheila@readeasy.org.uk – or see https://readeasy.org.uk/groups/axminsterseaton/
and you can watch Jay Blades on: Learning to Read at 51 on Wednesday 26th January at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
Devon Wildlife Trust
It is with sadness that once again we are asking for your help to challenge the Government’s decision to permit the use of the banned pesticide thiamethoxam on sugar beet crops for the second year in a row.
A single teaspoon is toxic enough to kill 1.25 billion bees.
Neonicotinoids were banned for agricultural use in the UK and the EU in 2018 due to their devastating impact on bees. Even minute traces of these toxic chemicals in crop pollen or wildflowers play havoc with bees’ ability to forage and navigate, with catastrophic consequences for the survival of their colony.
The successful application by British Sugar to use the banned pesticide was granted despite the Government’s own advisors recommending against its approval.
While we challenge the Government on its decision, we need you to raise questions about this decision with your MP.
We believe that farmers should be given support to adopt more sustainable farming practices and reduce their reliance on toxic pesticides. The Government needs to support our farmers to do this and uphold its own ban on neonicotinoids. Granting ’emergency’ use year after year is a very poor and short-sighted solution to a problem that is not going away. It is a decision that is bad for nature, bad for people and, in the long run, bad for farming.
Please stand up for nature by tweeting or emailing your MP.
What’s on in Membury?
Week commencing January 24th
Please wear a mask in the Village Hall, although from Thursday this is optional.
Monday January 24th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Tuesday January 25th
Wednesday January 26th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday January 27th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday January 28th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4pm
Saturday January 29th
Sunday January 30th
Church service at Uplyme Church at 10:30am
Week commencing January 31st
Monday January 31st
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
MerryMakers Committee Meeting at 7pm in Village Hall
Tuesday February 1st
Queens Jubilee Celebration: everyone is invited to a Planning Meeting at 7pm in Village Hall. We welcome your views on how we should celebrate.
Wednesday February 2nd
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday February 3rd
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday February 4th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3pm
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4pm
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6pm
Saturday February 5th
Sunday February 6th
Church service in Membury Church at 11am
News from Membury January 21st 2022
Oak Apple Café
Great turn out for the café today, and all the food went! Same time next week?
Extraordinary Parish Council Meeting
Once again, thank you to the 22 members of the parish who attended this meeting on January 11th regarding work that is due to be undertaken at the castle. The minutes of the zoom meeting are available to view here:
http://www.memburypc.org.uk/images/Minutes/MPC_Minutes_11.01.2022_draft.pdf
Village Hall News
Please be aware that providing the weather is favourable there will be a drone in the air above the Village Hall on Sunday morning about 11.00 checking the condition of and taking photos of the Hall roof and immediate surroundings. No other properties will be photographed.
Gigabit Internet Rollout
The Public Accounts Committee today reports it is not convinced the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) will meet even its downgraded targets for the increasingly critical rollout of super-fast, “gigabit” broadband, and is relying too heavily on commercial contractors for the progress that has been made. You can read all the documents relating to this here https://committees.parliament.uk/work/1520/dcms-recall-broadband/publications/
The Blackdown Hills Parish Network (of which Membury is a member) submitted evidence to this committee which you can find using the link above.
East Devon District Council Update
Celebrating 6,000,000 recycling and waste collections
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30638ed
Devon County Council Update
Fresh appeal to the “not yet boosted” as cases of COVID-19 reach their highest level since the pandemic began
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/306aef9
The Moon
The Museum of the Moon will be visiting Exeter Cathedral during February. Visit – https://my-moon.org. Tickets available (£5 adult) for allocated days & times give entry to the cathedral and the artwork.
Museum of the Moon is a touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram.
Measuring seven metres in diameter, the moon features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface. At an approximate scale of 1:500,000, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 5km of the moon’s surface.
Over its lifetime, the Museum of the Moon will be presented in a number of different ways both indoors and outdoors, so altering the experience and interpretation of the artwork. As it travels from place to place, it gathers new musical compositions and an ongoing collection of personal responses, stories and mythologies, as well as highlighting the latest moon science.
The installation is a fusion of lunar imagery, moonlight and surround sound composition created by BAFTA and Ivor Novello award winning composer Dan Jones. Each venue also programmes their own series lunar inspired events beneath the moon.
Bird Notes from Tony Marsh
For the first time this year, I hear the distinctive rattle from a mistle thrush, confident and bold, on an exposed perch high in an ash tree. For me, it is the first day of spring. The nearby field is apparently devoid of interest until, in the distance, subtle movements become visible. They resolve into a scattered flock of winter thrushes, mainly fieldfares. When upright, their dark backs, chestnut below and grey above are revealed. As I approach they take off and scatter into a nearby oak tree, accompanied by raucous chatter. Back home in the garden as the sun breaks through, a song thrush sits motionless on the edge of the grass, listening for signs of edible life in the leaf litter.
School Newsletter
News from Membury January 20th 2022
Oak Apple Café
Don’t forget that the café will be open tomorrow between 1:30 and 3:30
100 Club – and the results are in!
Winners of the fist draw of 2022 are:
44 – Kevin and Sarah Sadler £30
89 – Suzie McFadzean £10
72 – Richard and Molly Barrell £10
David Neill will deliver prize money to the lucky winners within the next few days.
Holocaust Memorial Day 2022
There is still time to register to watch the UK Ceremony for Holocaust Memorial Day, which will be streamed online on Thursday 27 January at 7pm
We’re delighted to announce that Sandi Toksvig OBE is narrating the UK Ceremony for Holocaust Memorial Day this year. Sandi is well known as a broadcaster on TV and radio and as a writer of books and theatre. Sandi’s family have a personal connection to the Holocaust as they hid Jewish people from the Nazis during the war.
Over the next week we will be announcing more special guests who will appear in the Ceremony, including actors, sports people and faith leaders. Their contributions will sit alongside the powerful testimony of Holocaust and genocide survivors. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to find out more.
Register for the Ceremony
At 8pm, get ready to Light the Darkness with us. Households across the UK will be lighting candles and safely putting them in their windows to:
- remember those who were murdered for who they were
- stand against prejudice and hatred today
Light a candle and put it in your window at 8pm on 27 January 2022 (if you are able to do so safely).
Devon County Council Update
The Director of Public Health Devon advises caution in response to PM’s statement
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/306af47
Axminster SAVE Food Hub
News from Membury January 19th 2022
Oak Apple Café
Jenny and Mike Beaman, and Rose Shepherd are looking forward to welcoming you to the Oak Apple Café on Friday 21st between 1:390pm and 3:30pm.
On offer there’ll be:
- Carrot and Coriander Soup with Homemade Bread
- Sausage Rolls
- Stilton and Leek Flan
- Ginger Biscuits
- Coffee and Walnut Cake
Be careful, observe the rules, but come along and enjoy yourself. Don’t forget that the library van will be along too
More Roadworks
7-11 February 2022
Long Bridge Cross to Cott Cross
The alternative, signed, route for vehicles will be via – Long Bridge Cross, Webble Green Cross, Cott Cross and vice versa
This temporary restriction is considered necessary to enable drainage works
(It’s actually the section between Lake Farm and the old Longbridge Inn.
A message from the Government
The government has today announced that England will fully return to Plan A on Thursday 27 January thanks to the success of the booster programme, with ministers urging anyone who has still not had a top-up jab to come forward and Get Boosted Now.
From today people will no longer be advised to work from home, and secondary school pupils will no longer be required to wear masks in classrooms.
From next Thursday mandatory face coverings in public places and Covid passes will both be dropped – but people are still advised to wear masks in enclosed or crowded spaces and when meeting strangers.
Heat Devon
There is funding to help tenants and owner occupiers reduce their energy demand.
In East Devon there have only been 24 applications so far, potentially they could fund over 100.
This fund provides up to £10,000 for owner occupiers houses and up to £5000 of energy efficiency improvements for private /social tenants with a landlord contribution (1/3rd)
The scheme must be applied for by end of March.
The scheme will fund things like
- Cavity wall insulation
- Loft insulation
- Solar pv
- Under floor insulation
You must have an income of less than £30,000 per household or be on certain specified benefits such as pension credit AND the property must have an EPC score of D or below.
You apply direct at www.heatdevon.co.uk
They will walk you through the process. Each household will receive tailored support from a dedicated retrofit coordinator who will oversee the work of selected tradespeople ensuring it all meets standards.
News from Membury January 18th 2022
A Tribute to Alex Tasker from Sandra Little
My friendship with Alex and Marie began soon after they moved into Haddon Fields and has grown stronger over the years.
From the fierce, but friendly, rivalry over growing vegetables to many soggy hours spent clearing and rodding blocked drains to prevent flooding we enjoyed each other’s company. Alex was a leading light when the village plan was drawn up and for several years he was a tireless Parish Councillor.
In later years we enjoyed exercising our dogs followed by a quiet drink and chat in the garden.
Sadly, Alex’s health began to fail and the difficult decision was made to move closer to their family in Wimborne. They spent a happy and quiet year there before Alex’s health deteriorated and he passed peacefully away on Monday 17th January at home with Marie and his family around him. Alex is now at peace and my thoughts and prayers are with Marie and all the Tasker family
100 Club- you have to be inittowinit!
The first draw of 2022 will take place this Thursday so it’s still not too late to buy your tickets. Please purchase by BACS, the account is MEMBURY MERRYMAKERS sort code 30-90-37 account number 01560859 or pay by cash to David Neill at Hope Cottage ( just behind the Village Hall.)
A big THANK YOU to those who have already bought their tickets and good luck on Thursday!
Free Tree Hubs
Devon’s treescapes are stunning and crucial habitats for so much wildlife. But they are under threat from Ash Dieback which is estimated to kill at least 90% of Devon’s ash trees in the coming years. It will affect everyone, but everyone can be part of the solution.
Do your bit by collecting a free tree to plant in your garden.
You will be able to collect between 1-5 free trees along with protection and a free planting and aftercare guide. The trees will all be cell grown UK broadleaf species such as crab apple, wild cherry, rowan and birch. They will be 2-3 years old and so around 20-60cm in height and will need to be planted within a few days of collection.
Saving Devon’s Treescapes is led by Devon Wildlife Trust on behalf of the Devon Ash Dieback Resilience Forum. It’s a partnership project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as well as other funders. Read more about the project and find other ways to get involved here.
5th February, Awliscombe Village Car Park, Awliscombe, Honiton EX14 3PJ
23rd February, Kings Garden Centre, Stowford, Sidmouth, EX10 0NA
Jurassic Blue
If you enjoyed Jurassic Blue who played for us in November at the Village hall while we feasted on fish and chips you might like to know that they are playing at the Waffle House in Axminster on January 28th. If you missed them in November try to catch them at their Axminster gig – they were great!
Jubilee
We’ve had a few ideas, and Sue Nicholson plans to put a list of possibilities up in the village hall for people to comment on, but if you want to email more suggestions please do! We are hoping to have an open meeting in a month or so to help formulate a plan. Watch this space!
Stockland Road Closure
THE COUNTY OF DEVON (TEMPORARY RESTRICTION) (ROAD FROM CRANDONS CROSS TO GAMMONS HILL, STOCKLAND, MEMBURY, DALWOOD, KILMINGTON) (NO. 2) NOTICE 2022
TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF THROUGH TRAFFIC & PARKING
DEVON COUNTY COUNCIL hereby give NOTICE that:
From THURSDAY 27th JANUARY 2022
Until FRIDAY 4 MARCH 2022 (approx)
No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to proceed or wait on the sections of Affected Roads.
ROAD FROM CRANDONS CROSS TO GAMMONS HILL, STOCKLAND, MEMBURY, DALWOOD, KILMINGTON
The alternative, signed, route for vehicles will be via – A35, OLD TAUNTON ROAD
News from Membury January 17th 2022 Special Jubilee edition
Your Queen needs you!
In June this year there will be national and local events to celebrate the platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.
Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd June will both be bank holidays, and this also coincides with half term.
At the diamond jubilee celebrations in 2012 Membury had a number of village events including a street party and fireworks.
How would you like Membury to celebrate in 2022?
We are looking for your ideas, and also your support in organising events.
Please respond ASAP by email to suenicholson1960@me.com (secretary of the MerryMakers).
We may want to coordinate with these national events.
Thursday June 2nd
The Queen’s Birthday Parade will take place (Trooping the Colour).
1500 Platinum Jubilee Beacons will be lit throughout the UK.
Friday June 3rd
Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral
Saturday 4th June
Derby at Epsom Downs
Platinum Party at the Palace – special live concert
Sunday 5th June
The Big Jubilee Lunch – people are being invited to share friendship, food and fun with neighbours- street parties, picnics, etc
The Platinum Jubilee Pageant- street arts, theatre, music, circus, carnival and costume (likely to be broadcast on TV but no information on this yet).
We may also like to be involved in the Queens Green Canopy, and any keen bakers may like to enter the Platinum Pudding Competition – or maybe we host our own!
Information on all national events can be found at royal.uk or platinumjubilee.gov.uk
News from Membury January 16th 2022
David Neill is limbering up to “deal” with the non-compliant people.
Stop Press!
Come with a whoop, come with a call,
Come with a good will or not at all!
The café will be reopening this week on the 21st as originally planned – and a big thank you to Mike and Jenny Beaman who have volunteered to run it. Come along to see the work that is now almost complete on The Terrace, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a slightly reduced menu of cakes and savouries. Please be aware of the rules in force at the hall, and only remove your mask when you are sitting at your table. If the afternoon is a success we will also be open the following week, and we aim to reopen fully on February 4th.
The opening hours will be 1:30 – 3:30. The Post Office will be in situ from 1pm – 3pm, and the library van will be calling from 1:50 – 2:30
Christmas 2021 – Last Mention (I Promise)
ARC have written to thank Lucy Pearse for raising £153 for them form Santa’s Grotto. Lucy is looking forward to more collaboration between the school and the village. Go Lucy!!!
As an aside – I can tell you that she makes damn fine fudge too.
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing January 17th, (Covid permitting)
Please wear a mask in the Village Hall
Monday January 17th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Tuesday January 18th
PCC meeting in the Village Hall 7pm
Wednesday January 19th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday January 20th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday January 21st
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Library van outside Gowan Brae 1:10 – 1:40pm
Library van at the Village Hall car park 1:50 – 2:30pm
Saturday January 22nd
Sunday January 23rd
Morning Prayer at Membury Church at 11am
Week commencing January 24th (Covid permitting)
Please wear a mask in the Village Hall
Monday January 24th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Tuesday January 25th
Wednesday January 26 th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday January 27th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6:30pm
Friday January 28th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Saturday January 29th
Sunday January 30th
Church service at Uplyme Church at 10:30am
News from Membury January 14th 2022
You don’t want to upset David Neill do you?
– go on join the 100 club!
East Devon District Council Update
Covid self-isolation in England being cut to five full days
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30516f3
Devon County Council Update
Devon’s COVIS-19 cases stabilising, but still very high
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/305a67b
School News
News from Membury January 13th 2022
What? Do you mean that you still haven’t joined the 100 club?
David Neill will be most upset.
Weather warning
We have a yellow warning of fog in place until 11:00 tomorrow.
Fog patches will form in the evening and become more widespread overnight – possibly leading to travel disruption.
Axminster Health and Wellbeing Centre
Thank you to all in the local community who have donated to the Foodbank this week as well as the donations received through the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund.
Here are the items we need this week if you are able to help.
Microwaveable Rice
Long-Life Milk
Tinned: Tomatoes/Peas/Potatoes/
Tinned: Sweetcorn/Carrots
Tinned: Rice Pudding/Custard
Jars of Jam
Large and small Tinned Meat
Bleach
Washing-up Liquid
Surface Cleaner
Toilet Rolls
Nappies sizes 6 and 6+
Bags for Life ***PLEASE DONATE/RETURN ANY BAGS FOR LIFE TO US TO SAVE US MONEY***
*(Due to very generous donations, we DO NOT need any packets of dry pasta or spaghetti for the time being, thank you.)
Please place any food donations in the containers at the Axminster Tesco or the Co-op stores. The Foodbank opening hours are MONDAY, TUESDAY AND THURSDAY 10.00 am to 1.00 pm ONLY. Please collect all food, return your bags for life, or bring in any donations during these hours. We are situated in the Axminster Health and Wellbeing Centre, Hanover House, Chard Street, Axminster EX13 5DZ. Contact us by Tel: 01297 32331 and speak to Sheila during the above hours; or email us at: info@axminsterwellbeing.com
Suzie’ snap
Suzie McFadzean posted this awesome picture on Facebook today. It seems that winter has finally arrived with a cold, crisp morning and sunshine most of the day.
News from Membury January 12th 2022
Hurry Hurry Hurry!!!
100 Club – only just over a week to go
Join the 100 Club for 2022 and support Membury Merrymakers!
Join by January 20th to ensure you are in the first draw for a monthly first prize of £30 and two runner up prizes of £10 each. Each ticket is only £10 and is valid for 12 months. Don’t forget you can buy as many as you wish!
Please purchase your tickets by BACS the account is MEMBURY MERRYMAKERS sort code 30-90-37 account number 01560859. Please add 100 club and your name and initials as a reference, or pay by cash to David Neill at Hope Cottage (just behind the Village Hall).
Could C Day please get in touch so we can give them their numbers please
Would you like Ron Martin to keep you warm?
Logs for Sale
Mixed load of well-seasoned quality stuff!, 9” average length, stored for 2 years.
Delivered locally in a builder’s bag
£80 – ring Ron 01404 881645
What have sheep ever done for us?
I’m told that the carbon captured by the fleeces grown every year by the UK sheep flock is equivalent to the carbon dioxide produced by the cars of 26,450 families driving 10,000 miles per year. How’s that for woolly thinking?
Membury Castle
There was an impressive turnout of 34 people attending the Extraordinary Parish Council meeting last night which was set up to discuss the plans put forward by Historic England and the AONB management team. As a “Scheduled Monument” the site has the highest level of protection available, but options are quite limited. Everyone who wanted to speak was given an opportunity to do so, and it was agreed that a further site meeting will be held as soon as possible to see if the plans can be “tweaked” slightly, although the point was made by the AONB that this wasn’t a consultation as such, and opportunities to change the plans will be quite limited. Historic England will be sending us a document next week that will demonstrate how they have treated other similar sites at Woodbury and Hembury. I’ll circulate this when I get it.
Work on the castle is due to start in mid-February, after the follow up meeting.
Were you a winner?
If you were, get the silver polish out and shine up that trophy you won the last time we had a flower and produce show – and deliver it back to Jo Bailey at Haycroft, or give her a ring (881274) and she’ll collect it. Watch this space for updates on the show this year!
Devon County Council COVID-19 Update
From yesterday, people without COVID-19 symptoms no longer need a PCR test to confirm a positive lateral flow in England.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/305161a
Kings Arms Update
Do you want to keep our “local” in the neighbouring village of Stockland?
Those of you reading this that have lived in the area for a while will remember the sad day when the Kings Arms Inn closed its doors in 2013 and the valiant efforts of the community to purchase the pub, restore the building and finally to re-open in 2020.
Stockland Community Pub Limited (SCPL) is a community benefit society that owns and is the custodian of the pub on behalf of the broader community. We own the premises and manage the relationship with our tenants, Ben and the team at the Kings Arms, who have a long-term lease. With over 270 members many of you reading this will already be shareholders and have played an important role in re-establishing the pub at the heart of the village.
To maintain and run SCPL we need continued support and there are two ways in which you can help ensure we get the best out of our collective investment.
Already a member? Then consider standing for the management committee that carries out vital work in the background to ensure we never lose the pub again. Self-Nominations can be made up until 21st January.
Become a member! You may be new to the village or missed the initial share offering. It costs just £100 to become a member and bring fresh ideas and energy to the society. The more people from the community involved in the stewardship the better and if you wish you can lend your skills and subsequently stand for the management committee. For more information see https://scpl.org.uk/become-a-member.
What’s on in Membury – Update
The PCC meeting is at 7pm on Tuesday 18th, not 7:30pm as previously stated.
Badminton on Thursdays starts at 6:30pm, not 6pm.
And they’re out!
Douglas Fairbank has posted these pictures on Facebook of confused daffodils and snowdrops.
News from Membury January 9th 2022
Project Food, Axminster
Our collection box for any new, unwanted Christmas gifts is now situated in the entrance of Axminster Hospital. If you have received anything that you would like to donate for our upcoming raffles and fundraising events, please pop the items in the box. Thank you
Free Trees
The first Free Tree Hub events of 2022 are coming up later this month. Anyone attending can take home one (or sometimes more) free ‘whips’ – a young sapling grown from seed at the project’s Meeth Quarry tree nursery – to plant in their garden or other land.
Full details of all the Free Tree Hub events can be found on the DWT website – on the Saving Devon’s Treescapes page and the Events page – including Tree Hubs at:
Awliscombe, near Honiton – Sat 5 Feb
Sidmouth – Wed 23 Feb
Sustainable Farming
An update from the Government.
The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) is the first of our three new environmental land management schemes. Through this scheme, we will pay farmers to produce public goods such as water quality, biodiversity, animal health and welfare and climate change mitigation, alongside food production. These public goods are essential to meeting our 25 Year Environment Plan, Net Zero and animal health and welfare ambitions, alongside our ambitions for a productive and competitive agriculture sector.
If you want to read more about all this, please follow this link.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-farming-incentive-how-the-scheme-will-work-in-2022/sustainable-farming-incentive-how-the-scheme-will-work-in-2022
Membury Merrymakers
Happy New Year from the Membury MerryMakers. We hope that you were able to enjoy the festive season with family and friends, without too many positive covid tests affecting your celebrations.
We are all usually very busy in January preparing for the annual pantomime, however this year’s performances, already modified to a variety show, have now been cancelled due to the uncertainty around Covid 19 cases/restrictions and the need to continue to be cautious in our community.
The fish and chip van takes a well-earned break in January and February so the MerryMakers calendar is looking quite empty. We can all look forward to Moviola on February 15th when we will be screening “The Courier” using the brand new projector and speakers which are being installed next wekend.In March we will be screening “The Pig”, and in addition, we would welcome your ideas for social events.
Towards the end of last year we started to produce a weekly events calendar. Was it useful?
Our thoughts turn towards summer days, and the village celebrations of Queen Elizabeth’s platinum jubilee. If you have an interest in helping with organising Membury’s events please contact Sue Nicholson, secretary of the MerryMakers (suenicholson1960@me.com). The diamond jubilee was celebrated with a street party and fireworks, and we would like to be able to party in style…….and hopefully without covid restrictions!
What’s on in Membury
Week commencing January 10th
Events In Membury (Covid permitting)
Please wear a mask in the Village Hall
Monday January 10th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Tuesday January 11th
Membury Parish Council – 7:30pm Zoom Meeting with Historic England and Blackdown Hills AONB
Wednesday January 12th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday January 13th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6pm
Friday January 14th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Saturday January 15th
Sunday January 16th
Communion at Membury Church at 11am
Week commencing January 17th
Events In Membury (Covid permitting)
Please wear a mask in the Village Hall
Monday January 17th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45am
Tuesday January 18th
PCC meeting in the Village Hall 6pm
Wednesday January 19th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7pm
Thursday January 20th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall 2pm
Badminton in the Village Hall 6pm
Friday January 21st
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Saturday January 22nd
Sunday January 23rd
Morning Prayer at Membury Church at 11am
News from Membury January 6th 2022
Village Hall Update
Have you had a chance to pop down to the Village Hall recently and see The Terrace – the newly refurbished outdoor area between the school and the hall? There’s still another bench seat to be delivered, and some planters, but it looks lovely!
Membury Castle
Patrick White writes:
On 11 January there is an extra meeting of the Parish council at 7.30 via Zoom to talk about the works that the AONB and Historic England are planning at Membury Fort. The meeting has been called because quite a few residents are concerned about the way that the project has been developed without involving the community and the potential for the loss of wildlife and damage to this wonderful village asset. Everyone wants the archaeology to be protected and the trees and habitat that was such a perfect setting for our village picnic and for many walks and visitors to be preserved. So it’s good news that the AONB and Historic England have agreed to attend this meeting to answer questions and hopefully to listen and engage with the community to make the most of this opportunity.
Attached to this newsletter is a note from the AONB and Historic England setting out their plans and a response prepared by the Tree Wardens and a group of residents who are concerned about how the project has been handled so far. It suggests some ways that it could be improved that we are asking the AONB and Historic England to include in their plans.
So if you care about the Fort and the environment and history of our village then please do join the meeting on the 11th. Please Click this link to join the meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83483573709?pwd=dEpISGVsSkpVa1NQRXNPRWtqM2JpQT09
If you want access to these attachments, please just message me.
100 Club – less than two weeks to go!
Join the 100 Club for 2022 and support Membury Merrymakers!
Join by January 20th to ensure you are in the first draw for a monthly first prize of £30 and two runner up prizes of £10 each. Each ticket is only £10 and is valid for 12 months. Don’t forget you can buy as many as you wish!
Please purchase your tickets by BACS the account is MEMBURY MERRYMAKERS sort code 30-90-37 account number 01560859. Please add 100 club and your name and initials as a reference, or pay by cash to David Neill at Hope Cottage (just behind the Village Hall).
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/303df06
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3044c86
What’s on at the Beehive?
Happy New Year! Here’s to 2022
Put some dates in your diary this January! We all need something to look forward to and engaging with arts and culture is great for our mental health and wellbeing.
Staying Covid secure
We continue to monitor and follow all government guidelines to ensure the safety of our staff, volunteers and customers.
We encourage you to take a lateral flow test before attending an event. Face masks must be worn unless you are eating, drinking or are exempt. Most importantly, please stay home if you’re experiencing any covid symptoms.
Friday January 7th 19:30 Spencer (12a) £7.50/6.50
Friday January 21st 19:30 Mothering Sunday (15) £7.50/6.50
Thursday January 27th 19:00 National Theatre Live: Leopoldstadt (12a) £16/13
Friday January28th 19:30 Jim Causley: Songs of Devon £13
For more details visit: https://preview.mailerlite.com/d9n1e3h7o5/1857834820084700969/w1v3/
Membury School Newsletter
News from Membury January 5th 2022
Membury Parish Council
Councillors are summoned and members of the public are invited to attend a virtual Extraordinary Council Meeting of Membury Parish Council, to be held via Zoom on Tuesday 11th January 2022 at 7:30pm to discuss the following matters:
Bec Davey, Clerk to the Council
Please Click this link to join the meeting Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83483573709?pwd=dEpISGVsSkpVa1NQRXNPRWtqM2JpQT09
Agenda
- Welcome:
- Apologies for Absence:
- Declarations of Interest under the Code of Conduct: Councillors are reminded of the need to declare any interests either at this stage of the meeting, or as soon as they become aware of the interest. The reason for the declaration must be given, and whether it is a personal or pecuniary interest; any actions they intend to take when the item is being dealt with
- To discuss the proposed works at Membury Castle:
Representatives from the Blackdown Hills AONB, Historic England and Ecologic Consultants will be available to answer questions during the meeting.
Date of the next Parish Council meeting: 08.02.2022
Refuse Collection
For those of us who normally have their bins collected on Mondays, they are being collected tomorrow, and next week they’ll be picked up on Wednesday.
COVID Lateral Flow Tests
Further to the note yesterday about LFD tests, apparently the distribution team will be at Tesco in Axminster every Tuesday until further notice. I don’t know what time they arrive and leave. Perhaps someone who visits next week could ask and let me know?
100 Club – only 15 days to go
Join the 100 Club for 2022 and support Membury Merrymakers!
Join by January 20th to ensure you are in the first draw for a monthly first prize of £30 and two runner up prizes of £10 each. Each ticket is only £10 and is valid for 12 months. Don’t forget you can buy as many as you wish!
Please purchase your tickets by BACS the account is MEMBURY MERRYMAKERS sort code 30-90-37 account number 01560859. Please add 100 club and your name and initials as a reference, or pay by cash to David Neill at Hope Cottage (just behind the Village Hall).
Scam Information NHS COVID Pass
Criminals are using the NHS COVID Pass to target the public by convincing them to hand over money, financial details and personal information.
REMEMBER: The NHS COVID Pass is FREE and available through the official NHS app (which should only be downloaded through your usual app store), the NHS website or by calling 119. You can find more information by visiting www.nhs.uk/nhscovidpass. The pass is not mandatory and you won’t be fined for not having one.
If you suspect you have been contacted about a fraudulent NHS COVID Pass, follow these steps:
If you’ve received a phone call, hang up
If you’ve received an email, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk
If you’ve received a text message, forward it to 7726
If you’ve fallen victim to fraud, report online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
You can find more information about the NHS COVID Pass scam on the Action Fraud website: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/covidpassfraud
No Toy Left Behind
This Community Interest Company was formed in August 2021, and the report on their first few months can be read here: https://shoutout.wix.com/so/deNuT3Axb.
They are on the hunt for more volunteers to help them on Fridays and Saturdays at Pippins Community Centre in Axminster
Highway Code Changes
The new Highway Code will become law on 29th January 2022
There is now a new “road user hierarchy” meaning drivers of more dangerous vehicles (such as cars, vans, buses and lorries) must be extra careful around those lower in the hierarchy (such as cyclists and pedestrians)
Cyclists also get priority when it comes to roundabouts and are generally given priority over vehicles in most situations. And cyclists are advised to ride in the middle of the road including riding two abreast.
News from Membury January 4th 2022
COVID Lateral Flow Tests
LFD tests are being distributed freely from Tesco in Axminster, in boxes of 7 and 20 – if you anticipate getting through a lot. If anyone is short and needs some for the return to school we have a few spares tucked away here. Just send me a message, an email, or ring.
100 Club – only 16 days to go
Join the 100 Club for 2022 and support Membury Merrymakers!
Join by January 20th to ensure you are in the first draw for a monthly first prize of £30 and two runner up prizes of £10 each. Each ticket is only £10 and is valid for 12 months. Don’t forget you can buy as many as you wish!
Please purchase your tickets by BACS the account is MEMBURY MERRYMAKERS sort code 30-90-37 account number 01560859. Please add 100 club and your name and initials as a reference, or pay by cash to David Neill at Hope Cottage (just behind the Village Hall).
Need a locksmith?
Someone in the village lost their house keys just before Christmas.
Dan from South Coast Locksmiths comes highly recommended to help you get in if you find yourself locked out or need new locks fitted. www.247lock.co.uk dan@247lock.co.uk or 07921512103. He was efficient, tidy, prompt and reasonably priced.
Kings Arms
Wishing everyone in the village a Happy New Year! After a very busy festive period, I wanted to let you know that the pub will now be CLOSED until Friday evening.
The bar will reopen at 5pm on Friday (7th Jan) and then will be open normal hours all weekend, with music as usual on Sunday afternoon 3-5pm.
The kitchen will reopen next Tuesday, 11th January.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Ben & the team
Kings Arms, Stockland
01404 881686
https://kingsarms.pub
https://www.facebook.com/groups/stockland
Axminster Repair Café
Our Repair Cafe is back this Saturday in Axminster Guildhall from 10am to 1pm. We’re looking forward to helping fix as many of your household items as possible. See you there!
Mobile Library
Several times over the last few months the library van has struggled to get into the village car park. Their next visit will be on January 21st at 13:50 (13:10 up by Gowan Brae). If possible please try not to block the top part of the car park on this date, or any of the other dates they plan to visit. If you aren’t already a member of the library you can join aboard on any date that they visit.
News from Membury January 1st 2022
Happy new year one and all.
I celebrated the new year with a large glass of my favourite brake fluid – but I’m not addicted;
I can stop at any time.
Membury Church
There is a communion Service on Sunday 2nd at 11:00am
There is no such thing as the Dog Poo Fairy!
This dog poo bag was found in the hedgerow by Greendown a couple of days ago. If you can’t be bothered to carry your used dog poo bag as far as the nearest bin, please don’t bother bagging it – and certainly don’t leave it in someone else’s hedge intending to “pick it up on the way back”.
Advance Warning
The VCRR (Vintage and Classic Road Rally) will be passing through some of the hamlets in Membury Parish overnight (approx. 23:00 – 00:30) 15th to 16th January. About 50 – 60 vehicles are anticipated. I am awaiting full details of the route that they will be taking.
News from Membury December 30th 2021
This is likely to be the last message I send out during 2021. Have a careful new year and let’s hope that 2022 is easier for all of us!
Road Issues
A reliable source has reported a partial road collapse just uphill of Webble Green on the old Chard road. The issue is now marked with cones on the left (uphill) side of the road some 200 metres from Webble Green. Advice is to stay as far to the right as you can safely do so. Highways are obliged to mark this sort of road issue as ‘Road Closed’, but the road is open.
More Road Issues
But this one is good news!
The Pothole on the A358 just past the Trill turning has now been filled.
The Post Office
Mike will be at the Village Hall from 13:00 – 15:00 tomorrow (31st) as usual.
Membury 100 Club
Join the 100 Club for 2022 and support Membury Merrymakers!
Join by January 20th to ensure you are in the first draw for a monthly first prize of £30 and two runner up prizes of £10 each. Each ticket is only £10 and is valid for 12 months. Don’t forget you can buy as many as you wish!
Please purchase your tickets by BACS the account is MEMBURY MERRYMAKERS sort code 30-90-37 account number 01560859. Please add 100 club and your name and initials as a reference, or pay by cash to David Neill at Hope Cottage (just behind the Village Hall).
Thank you in anticipation of your support!
Tomorrow Night
If you are planning to let off fireworks at midnight tomorrow (or before) please be considerate and let your neighbours have as much notice as possible.
News from Membury December 28th 2021
I hope Christmas went smoothly for you and if you were planning to host or visit family your plans weren’t scuppered by the dreaded virus.
Unfortunately the New Year’s Eve party at the Village Hall has been cancelled, and the Village Show that was due at the end of January has been postponed – possibly to Easter, but watch out for announcements.
Big pothole
On the road between Axminster and Musbury, just past the Trill turning. This has been reported, but is yet to be filled.
Waste Collection and Recycling
Don’t forget that those of us who were expecting a bin collection on Monday ought to put our bins out for collection tomorrow – and this includes the grey landfill bin.
Not sure what you should and shouldn’t be recycling this Christmas? East Devon District Council has put this handy list together to help you over the festive season.
Every household in the district should have received a bin hanger, with all the information you need over Christmas and New Year.
The information can also be found by visiting www.eastdevon.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste
You can also ask your Alexa when your bins will be collected. Visit www.eastdevon.gov.uk/alexa to add this Alexa skill.
Here’s a handy list on recycling tips over the festive season:
What Christmas recycling can go in your green box?
- Plain wrapping paper and Christmas cards (nothing with any glitter on it).
- Textiles in a plastic bag, to keep them dry. EDDC works with The Salvation Army which reuses the items – they need to be in a good enough condition that you would buy them from a charity shop for us to be able to reuse them.
- Batteries, placed in a small clear bag, and small electrical items that fit inside your green box with the lid on – like hairdryers or kettles.
What should be put in your grey wheelie bins?
- Wrapping Paper or Christmas cards with glitter, foil or plastic – they will be used to generate electricity. Putting these out for recycling could contaminate a whole lorry load of paper or cardboard!
- Plastic film – Unfortunately EDDC is unable to recycle plastic film products such as film wrappers, plastic bags, crisp packets, cling film, polythene and pill casing.
- Polystyrene – There is always lots of polystyrene around at Christmas in packaging. Pop it in your grey bin and help EDDC power more homes.
Don’t forget about the food!
- All your food, cooked or uncooked, dog and cat food and tea bags and coffee grounds, can be placed in a single-use plastic bag (whether it is a bread bag, cereal box liner or carrier bag) and then put in your food caddy.
What about Christmas trees?
- You can recycle your real Christmas tree in your green waste bin (no branches thicker than 100mm) or you can take them to Axminster: West Street car park – 12:30pm to 2.30pm on Monday, 3 January
Your trees will be composted and used as a natural fertiliser by local farms or in our parks.
Cardboard galore – help our crews
- East Devon is expecting lots of internet shopping which produces a huge amount of cardboard packaging which we want to recover and recycle, however, if you have large quantities of cardboard, it will help our crews if you can spread the load by putting it out for collection over a number of weeks.
- There are times when we may have to leave behind some cardboard for another collection if our vehicles are filling quickly.
- If you do have large quantities of material which you would rather not keep until the next collection, then there will be the option for you to visit your local recycling centre.
- Also, please remember to take out any polystyrene, bubble wrap or polythene bags from your cardboard packaging before putting it out for collection.
Unwanted Christmas presents
- Get any unwanted Christmas presents this year? Instead of binning them, why not donate these to a charity shop, sell/give away on sites such as Facebook Marketplace, Freegle, Freecycle or even re-gift them to others?
- Don’t forget you can now pick up a bargain at Devon recycling centre’s re-use shops which are now selling electrical goods, including vacuum cleaners, lamps and TVs.
- The goods are being sold within the re-sale shops at Pinbrook Recycling Centre in Exeter and Knowle Hill Recycling Centre in Exmouth, thanks to a scheme being run by SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK Ltd and Devon County Council.
- Visit devon.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling/recycling-centres/reuse-shops for more information.
Membury Mercury Advertisers December 2021
A merry Christmas to all from the Membury Mercury. At this time in particular it is really important to support small local businesses – please shop local and use local tradesmen where possible.
All the people who pay for advertisements in the Mercury get a copy of their ad sent out every month by email to over 220 subscribers, as well as over 140 members of our Facebook group, and the ads are also placed on our website.
The copy deadline for the next Mercury is February 4th.
If you are an advertiser expect an invoice for 2022 early in the new year. If you are not yet an advertiser, but would like to advertise with us next year please contact Daniel Lazar. Our rates are very competitive.
News from Membury December 24th 2021
A Day at the Races
Two tickets for Wincanton races on Boxing Day cannot now be used, and are available – free! – to the first caller to the following number 07875 531016.
Happy Christmas, all!
Molly and Richard Barrell
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/30109db
Just a reminder
As we lurch into 2022 there may be more people requiring support due to self-isolating, so if you find yourself in this position remember that we can always find someone to help you with shopping, dog walking, appointments etc. If you need it, the Membury Support Group is still there 01404 819145 or memburysg@gmail.com
You can also join the village Facebook group either by this link, https://www.facebook.com/groups/Membury, or by scanning this code
If you don’t get updates like this by email, but would like to, just send an email to danieljlazar@gmail.com.
If you find you have some time after Christmas or in the new year visit https://nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk/ and sign up to help with the booster jabs as a steward volunteer.
Stamps
If you have been saving stamps from your Christmas cards please pop them in a small bag and post them through the letterbox at Haccombe, just down from where the post office used to be and we’ll send them to the RNIB.
Happy Christmas to All
May I wish you all a very happy Christmas. Thank you to all those that have attended events, kept the café going, the Merrymakers, the Parish Councillors, the Village Hall Trustees and all those that have contributed to these newsletters that I’ve sent out every day or two. Let’s hope that one way or another we can enjoy a less stressful 2022. If anyone gets any particularly good cracker jokes they’d like to share, just let me have them!
News from Membury December 23rd 2021
Membury Church
St John Baptist will be closed after the service on Christmas Day. It will remain open from 9:30 – 3pm at all other times.
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/3021b1e
News from Membury December 22nd 2021
Following the shortest day, we have …
Sunrise over Membury
Snapped by Kim Bruce
A Message from Ashford to Membury
I enjoy reading about (and envy) your remarkably active community life when Daniel and I regularly exchange our Membury and Ashford (North Devon) newsletters. So Ashford sends its congratulations and best wishes to Daniel and everyone in Membury for a safe but happy Christmas and 2022. Wishing you all well!
Dale (Hall)
Tomorrow Morning
Santa will be doing her rounds!
Sorry, did I say Santa? I meant Sandra – make sure you leave your empty egg boxes out for her.
Carols Round the Tree
Takes place tomorrow evening starting at 6.00pm.
Hot soup and mulled cider after the singing.
Collection for Hospiscare and the William Low Trust.
Everyone welcome. We will be standing socially distanced outside.
Last Minute Present Suggestion!
Recipes Rebuilding Lives
Migrateful is a charity that runs cookery classes led by migrant chefs who are struggling to integrate and access employment, due to legal and linguistic barriers. Our mission is to empower and celebrate our chefs on their journey to employment and independence. The Migrateful chef family now represents over 30 different countries. Find out more about our chefs and the stories that brought them to the UK – https://www.migrateful.org/.
You can book a voucher for an online zoom cookery class for £20 for an individual or household. You can choose from a large range of live classes (including veggie and vegan), and for each you are given a list of all the ingredients and tools you require so you can make sure that it’s something that suits you. The voucher is sent by email to your chosen recipient on your day of choice.
I wish someone had bought one of these for me!
News from Membury December 21st 2021
It was the shortest day of the year today – so from now on we are working our way towards summer!
A Message from one of the festive flood wardens
We are of course hoping for snow, but it looks like we are going to get a fair bit of rain over Christmas eve and Christmas day. Please could everyone take a few minutes out of the festive preparations to check that any drains and grates near where you live are clear of debris. If you are away over Christmas and your house is one of the properties that can be affected then do let a neighbour or the flood warden Patrick at Red Lion House know: patwhite73@me.com. It might be worth putting any flood boards up before you head off.
Lewsley Newsley
Trina has been at it again and this year Father Christmas has a helper! As per last year, Roger has done a fantastic job painting the face (he really is a fantastic artist!) and Suzie provided the snazzy footwear!
Eat Local to Help Out
As you may have read, the online shop Farmdrop has gone into liquidation just a week before Christmas. This is terrible news for the thousands of people who have ordered their festive food and products and have now been told the service is permanently closed with no refunds available. Over 450 businesses have been affected and are now trying to either get back their products sitting in Farmdrop’s warehouses or move pre-ordered items from their farms. Harry and Emily at Haye Farm in Musbury are one of the producers who not only are owed money by Farmdrop but have now been told their produce is no longer needed. We’re talking hundreds of kilos of meat and eggs, lovingly and organically reared, with suddenly nowhere to go.
If you would like to support them and also bring some of their finest ingredients into your home then please have a look at their webite https://www.hayefarmdevon.co.uk/ and keep an eye out on their social media for updates @hayefarmdevon. They have now closed for Christmas orders but will be re-opening on 29th December.
Yarcombe Woods
If anyone’s interested, the Exeter Trial is back in Yarcombe woods on the 8th January at 1:30 in the morning. There’s about 200 vehicles which will tackle the hill before heading off through the day to various other locations. It’s one of Britain’s longest running motoring events, it started back in 1910!
Axminster Medical Practice
URGENT UPDATE 21st December 2021
Our COVID vaccine clinics booked on the 23rd/24th/31st December have now all moved from Seaton Hospital to Axminster Medical Practice. We no longer have any clinics booked for Seaton Hospital at the moment.
We are texting all patients affected and ask that you reply using the link in the text to confirm receipt. We will call patients with no mobile number.
We still have appointments available so please call reception if you would like to book.
We hope that this change in location will be well received by most patients but we apologise if it is inconvenient for you.
News from Membury December 20th 2021
100 Club Draw
The winners of the bumper December 100 Club draw are :
Ceri and Martin Dash £50
Ceri and Martin bought the final 3 tickets this year, proving it is never too late to join!
Nat and Patricia Bruzon £20
Suzie McFadzean £10
Tickets for 2022 will go on sale immediately after Christmas; joining details will follow shortly.
Happy Christmas to you all!
David Neill
Carols around the Tree
This will take place outside on Thursday. David Noyes will fill in for Richard if he is unable to attend.
New Year’s Eve
The Merrymakers Committee has bowed to the inevitable and has decided to cancel the NYE party in the village hall. We are all very sorry.
Reporting Scam Messages
Fake emails and text messages are a common tactic used by cyber criminals, their goal is often to convince you to click a link. Once clicked, you may be sent to a dodgy website which could download viruses onto your computer, or steal your passwords and personal information.
In order to try and convince you that their messages are legitimate, criminals will pretend to be someone you trust, or from some organisation you trust. This could be your Internet Service Provider (ISP), local council, even a friend in need. And they may contact you by phone call, email or text message.
Reporting suspicious emails:
If you have received an email which you’re not quite sure about, you can report it by forwarding the email to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service at: report@phishing.gov.uk
Reporting suspicious text messages:
You can report suspicious text messages to your mobile network provider, for free, by forwarding the text to 7726.
For more of the government’s latest advice on how to stay secure online, visit the Cyber Aware website: ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware
East Devon District Council Update
- East Devon residents urged to ‘get boosted now’
- How you can help control the spread of Omicron
- Festive family events near you
- Explore East Devon this Christmas by walking in a winter wonderland
- Chance for people out of work in Devon to become keyworkers
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/300fbfa
DCC Update
Please be cautious about socialising this Christmas; COVID-19 booster programme speeds up in Devon and we’re here if you need help over the festive period…
- East Devon residents urged to, ‘get boosted now’
- How you can help control the spread of Omicron
- Festive family events near you
- Explore East Devon this Christmas by walking in a winter wonderland
- Chance for people out of work in Devon to become keyworkers
Kings Arms
Assuming that nothing changes …
These are the updated Christmas opening times:
Thursday 23rd open as normal
Friday 24th open as normal
Christmas Day 11-2 drinks only
Boxing Day Drinks 11-5, Lunch 12-4
NYE Open as normal
New Year’s Day Drinks 11-5, Lunch 12-4
Thea Hope
Wife of the late Rev. Cyril Hope vicar of Stockland and Dalwood, passed away last evening aged 99. They lived in the Stockland Vicarage from 1977 to 1990.
A Plea
Please close gates after you!! In the last couple of weeks, I have had issues with the gates between the fields at Rock being left open. Today I arrived to find 10 sheep missing and 2 very distressed lambs who had been left behind. Gates were wide open and the sheep were off roaming about on land where they should not have been. Please just take an extra second to check that gates close properly behind you…. If by accident the sheep push through the gate with you, please just call me 07484163901 and I will come and return them to their field. Thanks. Suzie.
News from Membury December 17th 2021
Let’s at least start this message with some good news …
Jeeves the Cat
Has now returned into Guy’s warm embraces, and first floor windows will be closely guarded from now on
Axminster Medical Practice
MORE BOOSTER APPOINTMENTS!
We have just opened up more appointments for this Saturday 18th December at Seaton hospital. If you have received a text and not yet booked you should be able to book via the link, or please call reception on 01297 32126. You can have your booster a minimum of 3 months after your 2nd dose.
We also have a limited number of appointments for this Monday afternoon 20th December AT THE SURGERY. These are priority appointments for patients that are unable to travel. Please call reception on 01297 32126 to book.
If you already have an appointment booked please keep it and do not change.
Oak Apple Café
Unfortunately, we have had to take the decision to cancel the café today. Thank you to all the bakers, cleaners, servers, chair-stackers and of course customers that have been so supportive of the venture since we reopened in the summer. We hope to be back to welcome you with a spectacular spread on January 21st. Merry Christmas to all
Fish and Chips
Last call for the fish and chip van, visiting the car park tomorrow (Saturday 18th) from 18:00 – 19:00. There’ll be a bar with Otter Amber available with a take-away option if you prefer it and you bring your own container. Contact jill-folletts@btinternet.com or 01404 881641
British Heart Foundation, Chard
WANTED – Assistant Manager for BHF shop in chard. 28hrs pw, to include some Saturdays. Start ASAP. Training given. An exciting opportunity to work with & for an amazing charity, which continues to develop research for the prevention & cure heart disease, and supporting communities in providing defibrillators.
For further details, please contact Naomi, manager, 01460 261686
Axminster Drama Club
Nativity the Musical which was to have been performed at the Axminster Guildhall tonight and tomorrow has now been postponed.
A Message from Steve Holt
Following the rise in Covid infections and the aggressive Omicron variant, All Saints Pantomime Society has decided to postpone its January performances of its pantomime, Dick Twittington. Everyone is eager to perform this wonderful script, so we will review in January and let you all know when we predict that we will be able to put on our show. The sooner the better but don’t be surprised if we propose an Easter-time panto.
Isolating?
If you need help shopping, with prescriptions or anything else over the festive period but are isolating contact the Membury Support Group on memburysg@gmail.com or 01404 819145.
Chard Guildhall
Reopening as a vaccination hub. If you would like to volunteer to help as a steward please contact Cllr Jason Baker via Facebook or jasonbaker@southsomerset.gov.uk
Santa Claus
Santa will be heading from the Kings Arms in Stockland to Yarcombe Hall this evening. He starts at 18:00 and will be heading past Webble Green at 18:30 – get out there and give him a wave!
Membury Primary School Newsletter
News from Membury December 15th 2021
Roadworks – Urgent
Signs have just gone up in the vicinity of the old chestnut tree regarding roadworks due to start Saturday December 18th and finish on Wednesday 22nd December. Please note that these closures will be in operation 24 hours a day, but they will do their best to finish early if they can.
You may get a letter like this through your letterbox.
A message from our Musical Director
Molly and Richard Barrell would like to thank all the people who sent good wishes and kind offers of help during Richard’s recent illness. He is home from hospital, but we are sorry to say that the planned “Christmas Cracker” will not now take place.
Oak Apple Café
You will be pleased to hear that the children from the school will be singing carols for us on Friday at 2pm.
Babysitter wanted
Nick Cunningham from Uphay Farm is on the lookout for a babysitter to provide occasional cover for his two little angels aged 9 and 10. Ring him on 07977 490574 if you can help.
New Year’s Eve
The spectacular party to celebrate the arrival of 2022 is still planned to go ahead in the Village Hall. If you are thinking of coming, but haven’t let Jenny Beaman know yet, please ring her on 01404 881828 as soon as possible. The party will of course be subject to the prevailing COVID rules.
Axe Vale and District Conservation Society
£5 per year per family gets you a very worthwhile membership.
Read their winter news: https://mailchi.mp/96f348cbfaff/winter-news
Do you know Elly?
A Christmas card addressed to Elly Jamison and family has been delivered in error to Chestnut view. If you know who this might be for please ring Sue or Jan on 01404 881066
A Message from NHS Devon
NHS Devon urging residents to ‘get boosted now’ as part of urgent national appeal to get better protection against the COVID-19 Omicron variant https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/300caf9
News from Membury December 14th 2021
Eggs!
Sandra will be delivering her Christmas and new year eggs a bit early. Put out your empties on Thursday 23rd, and Thursday 30th. Her hens are working flat out, so if anyone has family guests and needs extra please just giver her a ring on 01404 881812, or send a text to 07921 451580
Roger’s Pictures
A keen art lover has snapped up all three of Roger’s sketches in return for a generous donation to the Woodland Trust.
Jeeves
You will be dismayed to know that Jeeves is still missing so if you see a tabby that you don’t recognise in the village get in touch with Guy on Butchers Lane.
Wild East Devon News
Father Christmas’ reindeers are now hiding around Seaton Wetlands nature reserve. Why not come down for a walk and see if you can spot them all!
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2ffd4dd
Devon County Council
Environment and climate change news
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/300cc7e
Axminster and District Conservation Society
*VOLUNTEERS NEEDED*
This coming Saturday 18th December.
Sarah Butcher (freelance ecologist) will be running a harvest mouse survey at Trinity Hill LNR, from 13:30 for up to a couple of hours – volunteer helpers will be much appreciated if anybody is interested!
Park in the main car park (SY307959/EX13 5SS) – the barrier will be open.
Axminster medical Practice
COVID VACCINE UPDATE 14th December 2021
We have just sent out invitations by text message to all of our patients aged 18 or above that are currently eligible for a COVID booster, to book an appointment at Seaton Hospital. Those patients that do not have a mobile phone registered on their health record will be sent an invitation by post.
The photos attached show what the text message and link will look like when you receive them.
We are running clinics on the 18th, 23rd, 24th and 31st December. We are hoping to add some small clinics to be run at Axminster Medical Practice but this is dependent on various factors including the removal of the 15 min monitoring period after vaccination, which we are still waiting confirmation on.
We are also planning on vaccinating all housebound patients within the next few days.
This has taken a phenomenal amount of work to organise by demoralised and weary staff. We heard the news that we were expected to deliver boosters to all our remaining patients within a tiny window of 2.5 weeks at the same time you did via the news.
The priority right now is that everyone gets their booster as soon as possible. If you have already booked at a mass vaccination site please keep that appointment. If you can rely on family or friends to transport you to Seaton for the jab please go ahead and book.
We will let you know if it is possible to run any clinics in Axminster but these are likely to be for very limited numbers only.
News from Membury December 13th 2021
It’s a bumper issue of stuff today for you today – but fortunately it’s not all bad news!
You will be pleased to hear that the stray dog was reunited with its owner yesterday, but I’ve had no update on Jeeves.
Fish and Chips
Already tired of cooking? Take next Saturday off and enjoy a plate of fish and chips, and a pint of Otter Amber at the Village Hall, or just get some to take away. As usual it’s £6 per portion, and the van will be serving from 6pm. Please order by contacting Jill on 01404 881641, or jill-folletts@outlook.com. If you want some of the beer to drink at home please bring a suitable receptacle. It would be a shame if it went to waste!
Café
It’s the last café Friday before we break for the Christmas Holidays, and the children will be singing carols for us. Helen, Jan and I will be your hosts and the menu will be posted in the next few days. We’ll reopen with spectacular offerings on January 21st.
Telephone advice
Alex Tasker, formerly of this parish has passed me some excellent advice in the wake of Storm Arwen.
“Power cuts caused by Storm Arwen have highlighted a potentially lethal problem in the home phone network’s digital transformation. Traditional landlines are being phased out in favour of broadband-enabled phones reliant on electricity. As hundreds of thousands of households across northern England lost power, people in remote areas without a mobile reception were left unable to call for help.”
Most people nowadays use cordless phones which are useless in a power cut.
We keep an old-style wired telephone plugged in to one socket that doesn’t require connecting to the mains electricity for it to work.
The Messiah at the Minster
Unfortunately, this concert due to take place next Saturday has been cancelled. Details of how to get a refund will be on the Axminster Choral Society website.
COVID Passport Scams
The police have been alerted by several people that they have received communications purporting to be “official notifications” regarding digital COVID-19 passports. In some cases, recipients have been asked to click on a link to accept an invitation to receive a Covid passport certificate confirming that they have been vaccinated.
Please beware any similar unexpected communication, which may be a scam designed to capture your personal information or trick you into sending money.
Should you wish to find out how to obtain a Covid passport, you should visit the official NHS website at http://nhs.uk/.
Christmas Cracker
The Christmas Cracker that was to take place on Friday at the hall has been postponed until next week. Watch out for updates by email
Flats and Sharps
We had a small turnout for Flats and Sharps who played for us on Saturday. It was a rousing performance, and it was a shame that there weren’t more people there to enjoy it. I think COVID, Christmas and the proximity of lots of other events got in the way.
Serious Injury Collision in Shute
On Saturday 11th December 2021, Police Officers from Devon and Cornwall Constabulary came across a single vehicle Road Traffic Collision on the A35, Shute in Devon, whilst on patrol short after 00.20am.
The scene was attended by personnel from the South West Ambulance Service Trust who treated a 38-year-old female with suspected serious injuries.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or were in the area at the time and may have dashcam footage are asked to contact 101, quoting log number 0028 of 11/12/21.
Mobile Library 2022
Form January 21st next year the mobile library will call both at Gowan Brae (opposite Bay Tree House) at 13:10 and then at the car park from 13:40. If you aren’t already a member please join to ensure continuity of this service!
Roger’s Pictures
I’ve finally got around to taking pictures of the superb sketches that Roger Clemens has donated to raise money for the Woodland Trust. Minimum donation £10 per picture but please free to offer more. If you want to see the pictures properly, just ring or send me an email stating the number of the picture you’d like. They’re all signed and just might be worth many hundreds of thousands of pounds in a few decades
Those were the days
Christine Symington, formerly of this parish sent me this image from 1972. I’d like to hope that MerryMaking next year can be done in a more cheerful manner!
What’s on in Membury (COVID Permitting)
Week commencing December 13th
Please wear a mask for events in the hall
Monday December 13th
- Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
- Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday December 14th
Wednesday December 15th
- Membury School Nativity – 9:15AM – All welcome
- Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7:15PM
Thursday December 16th
- Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
- Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday December 17th
- Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
- Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4PM
- School Carols at the café: Time to be confirmed
- Raucous Chorus Christmas Cracker 6:30PM in Village Hall
Postponed until next week
Saturday December 18th
- Fish and Chips 6-7PM, bar open for sit down or take-away.
Sunday December 19th
- Carol Service in Membury Church at 7PM With the Raucous Chorus, Mulled wine and mince pies
Week commencing December 20th
Please wear a mask in the Village Hall
Raucous Chorus Christmas Cracker to be re-scheduled this week
Date to be confirmed
Monday December 20th
- Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday December 21st
Wednesday December 22nd
Thursday December 23rd
- Carols round the tree 6:00PM outside the village hall
Friday December 24th
- Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Saturday December 25th
- Christmas Day Communion Service in Membury Church at 10:30 AM
Sunday December 26th
What’s on at The Beehive
Now that the “Christmas Cracker” has been cancelled you’ve no excuse not to at least consider Snow Angel Cabaret at The Beehive in Honiton. Charlie Bicknell is a force to be reckoned with in this unique cabaret show, packed with anarchy, wit and comic ingenuity. Expect a magnificent evening’s entertainment full of darkly comic, twisted songs and theatrical flair! – and, according to Wendy, quite a bit of naughtiness!
Glasses
I found these glasses in the foyer of the hall on Saturday after the concert – but they could have been there for several days. Do you recognise them? – assuming that you can still see this image without them!
News from Membury 10th December 2021
The Blackdown Hills AONB
A statement about the proposed works at Membury Castle is available on request.
Tree planting
The weather was very supportive of the postponed tree-week tree planting this morning, and as you can see from the images, we had a very excited audience cheering us on! A big thank you to Charles from the Trout Farm for donating the oak tree, David and Helen Neill for providing space for it and building the enclosure to stop it running away, and Suzie for providing the excited audience.
East Devon District Council Update
- Large cliff fall at Budleigh Salterton prompts warnings
- Winter car parking deal is perfect for high street shopping this Christmas
- Four tips to have yourself an energy saving Christmas
- Over 2.2million doses given as Covid-19 vaccination programme reaches anniversary milestone
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/3000e09
Devon County Council Update
- England moves to Plan B
- Devon’s Director of Public Health welcomes the additional measures
- First cases of the Omicron COVID-19 variant identified in Devon
- Plans for a safer get together
- Join the NHS COVID-19 vaccine team
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/300374b
Village Hall Plan-B Update
Some clarification as to when you must wear a face mask …
There are some places where you must wear a face covering by law, unless you are exempt or have a reasonable excuse.
In England, you must wear a face covering in the following indoor settings (examples are given in brackets):
- shops and supermarkets (places which offer goods or services for retail sale or hire)
- shopping centres (malls and indoor markets)
- auction houses
- post offices, banks, building societies, high street solicitors and accountants, credit unions, short-term loan providers, savings clubs and money service businesses
- estate and letting agents
- premises providing personal care and beauty treatments (barbers, hair salons, tattoo and piercing studios, nail salons and massage centres)
- pharmacies
- premises providing veterinary services
- retail galleries
- retail travel agents
- takeaways without space for consumption of food or drink on premises
- public facing funeral offices
- takeaways without space for consumption of food or drink on premises
- shopping centres (malls and indoor markets)
- community centres (including village halls), youth centres, members clubs and social clubs
- libraries and public reading rooms
- polling stations and premises used for the counting of votes
- places of worship
- crematoria and burial ground chapels
- visitor attractions and entertainment venues (museums, galleries, cinemas, indoor theatres, concert halls, cultural and heritage sites, indoor areas at aquariums, zoos and visitor farms, bingo halls, amusement arcades, adventure activity centres, indoor sports stadiums, funfairs, indoor theme parks, casinos, skating rinks, bowling alleys, indoor play areas including soft-play areas)
- public areas in hotels and hostels
- adult entertainment venues
- indoor areas of open-air sports stadiums
- public transport (aeroplanes, trains, trams, buses, coaches and ferries), taxis and private hire vehicles
- any car or small van during a professionally delivered driving lesson, a practical driving test, or during one of the practical tests for giving driving instruction, and in all HGV lessons and tests
- transport hubs (airports, rail and tram stations and terminals, maritime ports and terminals, bus and coach stations and terminals)
- motorway service areas
As you will see, the list specifically refers to village halls, and notes the particular type of activities that we carry out in the hall eg, films, theatre, performance etc. Also bowling. Those who are carrying out other types of sports eg badminton should check the rules relating to that activity and comply with them.
If this raises any questions or concerns for you please share them and we can work things out together.
Heating Oil
Stockland, Yarcombe, Wilmington, and Axminster all have Oil Purchasing Clubs. Deliveries are organised on a monthly or quarterly basis, and those requiring supplies get their orders together and put it out to tender for delivery on a specific day – the quantity of oil purchase resulting in a cheaper price for all. Would anybody be interested in joining such a club in Membury, and more to the point would anyone be interested in administering such a club?
Pews News
Please find attached the Pews News for this week along with the order of service for our 4pm telephone service on Sunday.
I have also attached for you an information sheet on ‘Living in Love and Faith’ – a Church of England Course that will be running in the Axe Valley Mission Community in 2022 for members of our churches.
School Newsletter
Issue 13 is here!
Donations from Santa’s grotto amounted to £53 which will be given to ARC.
News from Membury 9th December 2021
S4YH
The Sing for your Health Rehearsal due tomorrow (10th) has had to be cancelled. Further rehearsals on Wednesday and Thursday next week will go ahead as planned.
Father Christmas’ visit yesterday
Lucy Pearse writes:
Everyone keeps thanking me but I really want to thank you all, I just came up with the idea you all brought the magic together.
I don’t know really where to start. What an amazing team effort to bring a bit of Christmas magic in these uncertain times.
Membury school – thank you for doing all the amazing decorations with teachers as well as the talented Janice. They were amazing. Every child worked so hard to get ready for the arrival of Father Christmas and his elves – AND every child was really well behaved and I really was proud of each and every one of them. Thank you also to the PTFA for paying for the grotto. Was lovely to do one last thing before we close.
Merrymakers – you’re all amazing, each and every one of you. Father Christmas – you were absolutely wow wow wow and all the kids apart from a few tiny children were in awe of you! And your amazing elves Jenny and Sue you were amazing; you really got into character and made all the children laugh. I actually thought I was in Lapland! Elf Janice was amazing with your amazing crafts and games, especially the ones you made. They really enjoyed it all. You are so good with them all. Elf Suzie your magic camera was amazing and you were the quiet elf taking lots of photos here there and everywhere and taking the family photos in the grotto was such a magical touch. And thank you to Daniel you brought us all together, you were the glue to the grotto.
Parents. Wow again each and every one of you were amazing; everyone contributed to making sure all the children had a great time. From amazing baking Stacey super star, to my amazing double elves Ileana and Danny who also baked and helped throughout, to Nick and Joanne who also helped out during the day especially the grotto and Nick you were amazing, Caz and Hayley for helping out too. If I missed anyone I apologise.
Thank you to everyone. Without you all we wouldn’t have managed to pull it off.
Genocide Prevention Day
Today is Genocide Prevention Day, marking the anniversary of the UN Genocide Convention. On this day, we remember victims of genocide. People around the world are encouraged to learn from the past, and take action to prevent future atrocities.
To mark the day the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust has shared a new short film which describes the 10 stages of genocide, as developed by Gregory H Stanton, President of Genocide Watch. It is vital that we stay alert to the early signs of genocide and take action to prevent the progression of hatred.
https://twitter.com/HMD_UK/status/1468860467833495555
Oak Apple Café tomorrow
There’s a special Christmas menu at the café tomorrow, and we hope that the schoolchildren will be joining us after their Christingle service. Your hosts will be Jenny and Mike Beaman. Please note that the Oak Apple Cafe will be opening at 13:30 on Friday afternoons until further notice.
News from Membury 8th December 2021
Never has something that I have written provoked as much comment as the threat to the trees at the castle. The matter has been added to the agenda of the next Parish Council meeting on Tuesday 8th February. If you have views (positive or negative) on this subject, or want to know more about it, please let me know.
New COVID-19 Rules
News today from Boris that Plan B restrictions will be reintroduced including guidance to work from home from Monday. Face masks will also have to be worn in more public venues including cinemas and theatres from Friday. A Covid pass proving vaccination or a negative test will be required at nightclubs and venues with large crowds.
Tree Planting
Just a quick reminder that we are going to plant the oak (delayed from tree week) on Friday morning at 11.30 up behind the trout farm.
Santa Claus has left the village
No fewer than 28 children were treated to a present from Santa at the village hall today. All 11 children at the school attended with a few siblings, and the rest were children from the parish. Every parent contributed either with their presence, or by providing homemade cakes and biscuits. A big cheer for Lucy Pearse who masterminded the whole thing – and of course everyone else who contributed.
Santa was very comfortable in his grotto attended by his elves.
I was told my name was on the “naughty” list so I didn’t get a present.
Free to a good home
Does anyone want a wooden crate? Hamish has had two full of slabs he’s been laying outside the hall. One is already empty, the other one will be emptied soon. First come, first served. If you want one Hamish can drop it round if you live in the village. Drop round to the hall and slip him a packet of biscuits …
Cinechard
Screening “The Last Bus” at 7pm in Holyrood School on Friday 10th. If you missed this film that was so well received in Membury when it was shown here, come and see it in Chard. According to Boris, you’ll have to wear a mask though, unless you are exempt. Tickets on the door are £6/£3.
Flats and Sharps
Don’t let having to wear a mask put you off coming to Flats and Sharps at the Village Hall on Saturday – doors 19:00, music 19:30. If ever there was a need for something truly life affirming and cheerful it’s now. Tickets £12 – book at the Oak Apple Café, contact me danieljlazar@gmail.com or 01404 881408 or https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/villages-in-action/flats-sharps/e-jvgvjo
There’ll be a freshly broached cask of Otter Amber, plenty of wine, cider and lager and the odd bottle of gin.
We’ll be operating at half capacity for the hall and there’ll be plenty of ventilation. If you can, please consider taking a lateral flow test in the 24 hours prior to attending.
If you want a little taste of what they do – click this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0aDw3_S8H0&t=49s
Moor Meadows Talk
Next Moor Meadows online talk, this Thursday: 9th December, 7.30-8.30pm
Part Two – An introduction to Conservation Grazing
Register to receive the link: https://part2conservationgrazing.eventbrite.co.uk
Learn from three expert speakers:
* the carbon value of meadows – How the soils of species-rich grasslands are as important as woodlands in storing carbon and minimising climate change.
* how a species-rich diet benefits animal health
* grazing wetter meadows to benefit biodiversity
Speakers:
Phil Wilson, ecologist and grazier
Dr Pen Rashbass
Simon Berry, Senior Farm Advisor with the Devon Wildlife Trust
Those were the days …
I used to play in a Christmas band with Bing Crosby, Don McLean, Mary Hopkin and Lee Marvin. Yes, it was Bing, Don, Mary, Lee and I
News from Membury 5th December 2021
Oops!
The astute amongst you might have noticed that the poster for “Christmas Customs in Devon” I put out yesterday states that the talk will take place on Wednesday 6th. It will of course take place on Monday 6th.
Yellow Warning of Wind
Between 09:00 and 23:59 on Tuesday 7th December.
Storm Barra brings strong winds which are expected to affect much of the UK, with potential travel disruption in places.
Tree Week Takes a Bough
We raised £70 for the Woodland Trust on Friday. Thank you to Roger for making himself available for anyone wanting to have a go at sketching; he has donated a number of sketches and studies of trees which will be offered up to raise a bit more money shortly – watch this space.
Membury Castle
I should point out that the views expressed here are mine, and do not necessarily reflect the views of other people present at the meeting. If anyone wants alternative views sent around the parish, they are welcome to send them to me and I will include them.
The Blackdown Hills AONB has received a grant of £28,000 from National Grid to spend on tidying up the castle, where we had our picnic in the summer. A group of us met there on Friday morning with Tim Youngs (AONB Manager), Lisa Turner (AONB Planning Officer) and George Greenshields (consultant). Membury was represented by Cllr David Noyes, Cllr Stephen Tetlow, Cllr Ben Pearse, Jan Lazar (joint tree warden), Jenny Beaman, Nick Yool, Mike Capper (all from the Local History Society), Richard Pearse (landowner) Liz Tetlow and me.
Tim pointed out that there are only about 150 similar iron age hill fort sites across the country (including Stockland), and the primary goal of the exercise is to preserve the site and prevent future damage by tree roots and cattle. George Greenshields has obtained a licence to fell around 200 trees from the perimeter of the site. Most of these will be birch, and some holly. There will be five each of bat, bird and dormouse boxes put up to make up for some of the habitat loss. Some of the cut trees will be left as habitat piles. Some hedge laying and re-growing will be done, and possibly some new fencing and renewal of stiles where necessary. Some of the brambles will be removed as well. It is likely that work on the project will not start before next autumn. Charlotte Russell from Historic England will be visiting the site in January. If anyone wants to come along at that time, please let me know. Jan pointed out that during tree week, and after the messages of COPT-26 the suggestion that 200 trees should be removed was upsetting. Removal of some of the smaller trees will also increase wind blow at the top, and may destabilise some of the larger trees that are planned to be left in situ. It’s worth noting that during storm Arwen, there was little or no tree damage on the site – the trees protected each other to a large extent. Every tree matters, and the AONB have no specific plans to replace any of them. At least most, if not all of the magnificent ancient oaks will be left to grow in peace. A long-term local resident that Nick spoke to believes that the current plans are “daft” and noted that for many years it was fenced to keep cattle off the banks. Felling and scrub clearance will increase access for the cattle allowing them potentially to do even greater damage. Fencing would surely be cheaper too. On a more positive note, the suggestion of a couple of “explainer boards” was well received, and the History Society will be happy to contribute content. We will look at options, and see how much the AONB is prepared to chip in.
Week of December 6th Events in Membury (Covid permitting)
Monday December 6th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
History Society Talk: Christmas Traditions in Devon
Village Hall 7:30PM
Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday December 7th
Moviola (with bar)– The Father – 7 for 7:30PM Village Hall
Wednesday December 8th
School PTFA AGM 9:15AM
Father Christmas (and his elves) at the Village Hall 3-5:30PM
Contact Lucy for details 07488364117
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7PM
Thursday December 9th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday December 10th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
School Christingle Service in Church at 2:45PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4PM
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6PM
Saturday December 11th
Flats and Sharps in the Village Hall 7:30PM
Tickets £12 – contact Daniel Lazar
Sunday December 12th
Holy Communion in Membury Church– 11AM
Week commencing December 13th Events in Membury (Covid permitting)
Monday December 13th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday December 14th
Membury School Christmas Arts & Crafts Afternoon
Wednesday December 15th
Membury School Nativity – 9:15AM
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7:15PM
Thursday December 16th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday December 17th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
School Christingle Service in Church at 2:45PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1:30-4PM
Raucous Chorus Christmas Cracker 6:30PM in Village Hall
Saturday December 18th
Fish and Chips with Pop-Up Pub
Fish and Chips 6-7PM, bar open until 9PM
Sunday December 19th
Carol Service in Membury Church at 7PM
With the Raucous Chorus
News from Membury 4th December 2021
Today, as a special treat I bring you news and reminders of not one, not two, not even three but no fewer than five gold rings special events coming up over the next few days!
Sunday December 5th
There is a Christingle Service in church for all ages on the 5th December at 16:00. The band will be playing, all welcome for the start of the Christmas season.
Monday December 6th
Tuesday December 7th
It’s a Moviola Night at the Village Hall. 19:00 for 19:30; come along and see one of the best reviewed films of 2021. Tickets £6 each. Baboo gelato £1.50. Wine £3 per glass.
Wednesday December 8th
Saturday 11th December
Flats and Sharps play live at the Village Hall. For tickets (£12) ring Daniel Lazar 01404 881408 , email danieljlazar@gmail.com or visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/QMmNPJKuRXlS
In early 2011, four 17 year-old mates from college thought that maybe they could earn a bit of pocket money by forming a folk/bluegrass band and busking in and around their home town of Penzance.
Today, ten years on, their incredible skill on their instruments, their luscious harmonies and their sheer joy at performing such infectious music have helped Flats and Sharps build a reputation for themselves as the hottest band of their style in the UK.
Flats and Sharps is a fantastic, four-piece bluegrass outfit delivering energetic, enthusiastic and spirited Bluegrass music to audiences all around the world. Their shows include a wide variety of influences, from a fresh and modern outlook on foot-stomping Bluegrass material through to their powerful and well-crafted original songs.
Their music perfectly blends strong harmonies and stonking solos, with an incredible stage presence and energy to create an evening that’ll have you dancing, laughing and singing along in no time.
Over their time together, the band have made their presence known all around the world, including multiple tours in Australia, Europe and around the UK.
News from Membury 3rd December 2021
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2feb32f
Devon County Council Update
COVID-19 rates remain above the national average.
Please take extra care and follow the government guidelines with regard to mask wearing.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2febff3
Get your request in now!
If you are planning to come to the Merrymakers’ party on December 31st and want to make sure that “The Birdie Song” gets its due airtime you can make your request directly to Simon Foster – r.817@outlook.com
Seaton Music Presents
8th December 19:30 Cristina Sandrin.
This brilliant young Romanian pianist will perform three of Beethoven’s sonatas, opus 109, 110 and 111.
Membury School Newsletter 12
News from Membury 2nd December 2021
It’s Still Tree Week!
Roger has whipped up this quick sketch ahead of the Tree Week Café tomorrow afternoon. He’ll be bringing materials and offering advice and guidance to help you produce something similar.
The tree planting that was due to take place yesterday has been rescheduled for next Friday (10th). More details next week.
Housing Needed
Phil Pearse has got a new workman due to start in the new year in need of somewhere to live. It doesn’t have to be in Membury but anywhere in the surrounding area would be fine. Contact Phil on 07886 000980
George and Pat Bright of Yarcombe wonder if anyone knows of any available accommodation for a short term let starting as soon as possible? At least two bedrooms are needed for their son and his two grown up children. It could be for as long as 3 months depending on house purchase. Please contact: Pat Bright on 01404 861460
Village Hall Update
Hamish has started laying slabs at the side of the Village Hall in the area that will be developed with outdoor seating. Please be aware that the fire door at the rear of the Hall can only be opened in a real emergency while work is in progress on the re-surfacing of the outside area. The cement will not be hard enough to walk on except in a real emergency of course. Thank you for your patience with this. Ventilation can still be through the storeroom door.
Moviola Next Tuesday
The film we’ll be showing on Tuesday 7th will be “The Father” starring Olivia Coleman and Anthony Hopkins. This film won two Oscars (best actor and best adapted screenplay) and received rave review.
Moviola sneak preview
We can look forward to “The Courier”, “Pig” and “King Richard” on the second Tuesday of February, March and April next year.
The Grow Wild Team
Invite you to join them to explore the fungi kingdom for 45 minutes by zoom next Wednesday 8th December with their special guest, fungi and foraging educator Mark Williams of Galloway Wild Foods. Sign up here: https://r1.dotdigital-pages.com/p/4VE8-8PG/understanding-identifying-fungi-talk-registration
Membury Makers
The team that brought you bird boxes in the spring is stirring again and looking forward to providing insect hotels and possibly a few owl boxes. We could do with a bit of additional help from people with woodworking skills, and donations of wood. It is hoped that we can offer these free of charge to parishioners. Would anybody like to help us out? If you didn’t get a birdbox during our first season of making we might even be persuaded to make some more. Even though they went up quite late in the season I know that quite a few were occupied – so they seem quite popular with the clients!
News from Membury 1st December 2021
The Prime Minister has introduced new restrictions in response to concerns over the new Omicron COVID-19 variant being identified in the UK, because there are fears that it could be more infectious and less responsive to vaccines.
These measures as temporary and have been introduced as a precaution to slow down the spread of the Omicron variant while the government gathers more information.
Read more about Devon County Council’s response here https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2fe7911
It’s Tree Week!
We have an appropriately themed menu at the café, some special guests and an exciting workshop.
- Our local celebrity artist Roger Clemens will be offering an opportunity to get creative. He will be providing paper and pencils for some tree/leaf/roots or anything else tree related that you fancy having a go at sketching.Nothing too serious, just come along and get your creative mojo working.
- Tim Youngs and Lisa Turner – the Blackdown Hills AONB manager and planning officer, and project consultant George Greenshields will be at the café (time dependant) to answer questions about the AONB and the work they are planning at Membury Castle that you will have read about in the Mercury
And the menu for Tree Week will be
- Cream of Woodland Mushroom Soup with crusty bread
- Garlic and Parsley Sausage Rolls
- Veggie Mediterranean Parcels with Diced Potato and Pepper bake
- Black Forest Gateau
- Birch Tree Log
- Norwegian Apple Pie with Cream
- Walnut and Date Loaf
- Flapjacks
- Woodland Biscuits
For your safety and reassurance, the volunteers at the café will be wearing masks. Please consider wearing one as you arrive and leave.
Money raised this week, after expenses, will be donated to the Woodland Trust.
Yellow Warning of Ice
Between 00:00 and 10:00 Thursday 2nd December.
An area of rain, sleet and snow is expected to move south across much of Wales and parts of western England on Thursday morning. With temperatures falling ahead the rain, sleet and snow arriving, some icy stretches are likely to form on frozen ground. Whilst some snow will fall, this will be mainly on higher ground, although perhaps to lower levels for a time in the Welsh Marches and parts of the West Country. Only small amounts are expected with perhaps 1-2 cm of slushy accumulations in places.
Santa Claus Visits Membury
You’ll never believe who we have playing Santa this year! There are only four slots left for children on the good list. Call Lucy if you want to bag one of the last spaces. 07488 364117
Golden Plovers
From Tony Marsh
29th November 2021
Storm Arwen’s harsh wind from the north-west has brought south hundreds of golden plovers, now dispersed amongst the lapwings on Bewlay Down, the first time I’ve seen these winter arrivals in November. They were very skittish, doing their best to disappear over the horizon, challenging the photographer’s patience. In today’s thin light, they were a drab sight to compare with the sharp features of the out-numbered lapwings although, up-close, beautiful flecks of cream, the edges to the feathers of their upper-parts, become apparent.
Save the date
It seems likely that News Year’s Eve will once again fall on December 31st this year.
The MerryMakers are planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Party (subject to COVID-19 government restrictions) at the Village Hall. Numbers will be limited to 50, and we request that you take a lateral flow test before you come along.
The format will be similar to previous years, with a shareable supper in the Village Hall, followed by music and dancing. However, as a change and following feedback from our last event we will have our own music compilation provided by Simon Foster, rather than having a visiting disco.
Tickets are £5 (pay on the night) to include a welcome drink. Please bring some food to share and your own drinks. Food can be hot or cold, and we have traditionally had this buffet style. We will have some bottles of wine available should you forget, or run out!
Jenny Beaman has kindly offered to co-ordinate the list of attendees, and also the food list (we need to make sure that everyone doesn’t bring the same dessert after all!) so please let her know if you are planning to attend (jennybeaman@mac.com or 01404881828).
The festivities will start at 8pm and finish around 12:30 once we have welcomed in the New Year listening to the Membury Church bells. The theme is “Masked Ball”. Dust down your party clothes and dancing shoes and welcome in 2022 in style!
Please let us know if you have any favourite tunes you would like on the playlist.
Sustainable Stocklanders’ Meetup
The first get together of our new ‘Sustainable Stocklanders’ group will be next Monday, 6th December at 7pm in the Kings Arms. It will be a very informal chat over a drink to get to know each other and to discuss ideas for what our little group might want to focus on in 2022.
If you have an interest in the local environment, taking action on climate issues or protecting Stockland’s beautiful natural surroundings, please do come along. All welcome. This is open to everyone, not just people from Stockland
Claire
claireholgate@hotmail.co.uk
07771 786610
Axe Vale Rivers Association
The AVRA has recently received funding from the AONB for “Water Quality Monitoring and Invertebrate Sampling of the Umborne Brook, Corry Brook, River Yarty, All Saints Stream, and Kit River”. The aim is to put in-place comprehensive and regular water quality monitoring and invertebrate sampling of these 5 rivers in the BH AONB area for the period to end-March 2022 – they are looking for volunteers to undertake this water quality monitoring and invertebrate sampling. The volunteer support effort will be fully trained, and the volunteer teams and the knowledge gained will be used to continue the monitoring and sampling programmes beyond the end of the funded Project period and into future years as a continuous process. If you want to know more about this project please contact Mike Kent miklink5@hotmail.com or visit https://www.avra.org.uk/
Membury Mercury Advertisers November 2021
All the people who pay for advertisements in the Mercury get a copy of their ad sent out every month by email to over 220 subscribers, as well as over 140 members of our Facebook group, and the ads are also placed on our website.
Please support these businesses – without them, there might not be a Membury Mercury!
The copy deadline for the next mercury is February 4th.
If you are a remote subscriber, expect a request for money with the issue that has just been delivered. If you would like to subscribe to a printed copy of the Mercury, posted to you every three months the cost will be £10 per year. Contact Daniel Lazar
If you are an advertiser expect an invoice for 2022 early in the new year. If you are not yet an advertiser, but would like to advertise with us next year please contact Daniel Lazar. Our rates are very competitive.
News from Membury 29th November 2021
Axminster Level Crossing
I’ve been informed that the barrier at the Axminster level crossing has failed and you cannot get through. This is as of 8:15am this am.
Café Meeting
We are having an end of year café meeting in the village hall tomorrow (Tuesday) at 14:30. If anyone would like to join us to get an idea of what helping out on a Friday afternoon involves they will be most welcome
Christmas Cards
Suzie is down to the last carton (30 packs) of Membury Christmas Cards that were made to support ARC Axminster. She will put a few more packs in the Oak Apple Café,. but if you would like her to deliver these (or any of the other designs) just text her on 07484163901! Payment can be cash or BACs.
Thanks for your ongoing support of this important local charity.
This Week’s Events in Membury
Monday November 29th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday November 30th
Wednesday December 1st
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7PM
Thursday December 2nd
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday December 3rd
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1-4PM
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6PM
Saturday December 4th
Sunday December 5th
Christingle Service in the Church – 4PM with the church band All welcome!
Next Week’s Events in Membury (Covid permitting)
Monday December 6th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
History Society Talk: Christmas Traditions in Devon Village Hall 7:30PM
Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday December 7th
Moviola (with bar)– The Father – 7 for 7:30PM Village Hall
Wednesday December 8th
School PTFA AGM 9:15AM
Father Christmas (and his elves) at the Village Hall 3-5:30PM
Contact Lucy for details 07488364117
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7PM
Thursday December 9th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday December 10th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
School Christingle Service in Church at 2:45PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1-4PM
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6PM
Saturday December 11th
Flats and Sharps in the Village Hall 7:30PM
Tickets £12 – contact Daniel Lazar
Sunday December 12th
Holy Communion in Membury Church– 11AM
News from Membury 27th November 2021
Take care out there
There are reports of a large fallen tree on the A358 near Tytherleigh, a shed (?) in the road between Axminster and Musbury, a tree down on the Seaton Road (Putts Corner to A3052), electricity cables down, and other incidents in the area, including train cancellations.
St John Baptist, Membury
There will be a morning prayer service at 11:00 on Sunday 28th November.
Update on Santa’s Visit
Wednesday 8th December, Membury Village Hall 15:00 – 17:30
If there was any confusion you can come anytime you like for this and stay as long as you like. You only need to book the 10 min time slot to see Father Christmas himself. We will have lots of fun things for the children to do throughout the afternoon.
You can book at the Apple Oak Café, or contact Lucy via Facebook, 07488364117 or winifredsfudge@gmail.com.
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2fdfeda
Devon County Council Update
COVID-19 case rates in Devon now amongst the highest in the country, and there are cases in Membury
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2fde124
Membury School Newsletter number 11
Axminster and District Choral Society
One of the well-educated birds of Membury
Patricia Spencer has sent the following photograph
News from Membury 25th November 2021
The Oak Apple Cafe
Your hosts tomorrow at the Oak Apple Café will be Paul and Sue Nicholson, ably assisted by Jenny Beaman.
On the menu we have …
- Mushroom vol au vents
- Roast parsnip soup
- Baked potatoes with cheese/baked beans
- Victoria sandwich
- Coffee and walnut cake
- Chocolate cup cakes
- Apple cake
- Gooseberry and orange traybake
- Pecan Pie (Happy Thanksgiving!)
Tree Planting
Unfortunately, the Oak Tree planting on Weds 1st Dec has had to be postponed due to illness. This will be rescheduled hopefully in a few weeks’ time.
Storm Arwen
Between 00:00 Saturday 27th and 18:00 Saturday 27th Storm Arwen will bring high winds to most areas during Saturday. Gusts will widely reach 55 to 65 mph in many coastal areas with the highest gusts in coastal parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, southwest England and northeast England where gusts in excess of 65 mph are expected in some areas. Winds will start to slowly ease over Scotland and then northern England during the course of the day.
Why they’ve named the storm after the daughter of Elrond the Elven king in Lord of the Ring I don’t know!
Devon and Cornwall Police Update
Force urges caution when seeking out deals over Black Friday and Cyber Monday
As shoppers look for bargains over Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Devon & Cornwall Police is urging people to take care and consider whether deals are too good to be true.
In the run up to Christmas, Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become two of the biggest shopping days of the year, with many retailers offering discounts.
While shoppers can save money during these shopping days, it also gives potential criminals the opportunity to scam victims with fraudulent offers.
A request from Richard Board
Richard Board has been in touch with Dalwood seeking information about existing and past members of his family. If anyone knows anything about the Board family in Membury please get in touch with him using snake.board@hotmail.co.uk
Plastic Free Axminster
Invite you to a Christmas Eco Fair on Saturday 27th 10:30 – 13:30 at Axminster Guildhall. Gifts for the whole family that won’t cost the earth.
News from Membury 23rd November 2021
Beer
Following the fish and chip night on Saturday we have just over 15 pints of Otter Amber left – and it really needs to be drunk within the next few days. I know it’s a chore, but is anyone prepared to take it off our hands for the bargain price of £15? I can deliver it if it’s reasonably local.
Café meeting
The Oak Apple Café has been back in business since the summer every Friday with windows open and all other prevailing rules followed. We are always on the lookout for additional helpers on Friday afternoons, and bakers to make the occasional cake. If you’d like to contribute in any way that would be wonderful – as a community enterprise it can only function if the community helps out!
Yellow Warning of Wind
There is a yellow warning of wind between 00:00 Saturday November 27th and 18:00 Saturday November 27th. This warning covers nearly the whole country. If, as is likely, this brings most of the rest of the leaves down can you please make sure that drains near you are cleared in case we get a significant rainstorm.
The Membury Box of Fun
The Membury Box of Fun is back in its rightful place underneath the newspaper cabinet. Please bring along any books, games and puzzles that are surplus to your requirements, and make sure that you take some away with you as well!
Save the Date
Saturday 11th December at the Village Hall. Tickets £12. More details to follow …
Flats and Sharps will be entertaining us.
Flats & Sharps are a four-piece bluegrass outfit from Penzance, Cornwall. Delivering energetic, enthusiastic and spirited bluegrass to audiences all around the world, Flats & Sharps have been performing their unique take on this music for over ten years.
Their shows include a wide variety of influences, from a fresh and modern outlook on foot-stomping bluegrass material through to their powerful and well-crafted original songs, with beautiful moments everywhere in between. Their music perfectly blends strong harmonies and stonking solos, their incredible stage presence and energy create an evening that’ll have you dancing, laughing and singing along in no time.
Over their time together, the band have made their presence known all around the world, including multiple tours in Australia, Europe and around the UK.
News from Membury November 22nd 2021
100 Club
This months’ winners:
Bobbie Clarke and Terry Pitt £25
Susan and Paul Avis £10
Margaret Bulpitt £5
Congratulations to all of them.
Thank you David Neill for running the club so efficiently this year.
We’ll soon be putting out a request for your contributions towards next year’s 100 club!
Stockland Tennis Club
Christmas Skittles and Supper at the Kings Arms, Stockland on Thursday, 2nd December 2021 at 7pm.
We have booked the Skittle Alley and organised a 2-course supper and are looking forward to a fun filled evening and delicious meal to start off the Christmas season. It would be great to see as many club members, old and prospective members and friends as possible.
Due COVID we are limiting the numbers to 40 and requesting increased ventilation.
Cost is £10 per person.
Please let me know if you would like to come as soon as possible but no later than 25/11/2021 to allow time for KA staff to plan
Looking forward to seeing you.
Ted Espir and the STC Committee
Does anyone have any Disco Lights?
The Merrymakers are after some disco lights and a glitter ball for their New Year’s Eve party. Can anyone with some twinkly equipment help them out?
A deceit of Lapwings
From Tony Marsh.
Early winter. Dazzling sunlight and a harsh wind on Bewlay Down. A field of newly sown grass. A flock of about 100 lapwings, the size of pigeons, their pure white breast contrasting with dark backs and upper wings. As I approach they take off. In the bright sun, their white underparts flicker as they wheel away, keeping their distance. Because of their distinctive call when in flight they are known as peewits in these parts. Up close, their distinctive wire crest, and the scaly pattern on the upper wing, becomes apparent. A welcome sight, especially because lapwing numbers have been declining in southern England since the 19th century.
Stockland Christmas Market – This Saturday
There are so many great Stallholders booked in for Saturday’s Christmas Market, do come and support them and get in the early festive spirit!!
Jenny’s local honey from her own beehives
Rosie with handmade crafts from Heathstock
Jonne the Blacksmith wrought ironwork for home & garden
Bridget Aloe Vera products.
Claire’s seasonal floral crafts.
Beverley Muddy Dog Co, all things Bags
Elizabeth’s handcrafted gifts always different
Lydia’s hair scrunchies, bandannas masks & more
Ella’s crafts from Walshams.
Antionia’s Bunnies Love Jams
Crackers, Crafts & Cakes from Stockland
Jackie’s hand made knitted gifts & more
Jane from Membury Leather goods & crafts.
Happy Hens Free Range eggs, from Aller.
Danielle’s festive crafts
Alistair with handmade Pottery from Yarcombe
We look forward to seeing you there.
Victory Hall Committee
Christmas wreaths available to order
Stockland Primary and Stockland & Yarcombe Preschool parents are having a wreath making workshop in early December.
We’re hoping to make a handful of extra wreaths to raise some funds. So if anyone would like to buy a beautiful fresh foliage Christmas wreath, and at the same time support the school and pre-school, please get in touch.
Call Tamsin on 07920 714744 or email stocklandpta@gmail.com.
They’ll be £20 each, approx 16 inches across (12 inch rings) and we’ll be able to deliver around 5 December.
Thank you!
You better watch out …
Father Christmas visits Membury. Wednesday December 8th at Membury Village Hall. 3-5.30pm
“Ho Ho Ho Calling on all children from babies to primary age to come forward and let us know you’re on the nice list so we can book you in to see him.”
Every child will receive a cookie and hot chocolate and small gift from Father Christmas and of course has a chance to meet him in the grotto.
(A few party games too!)
All free but a donation box is available if you wish to donate.
A big thank you to our volunteers & sponsors The Merrymakers, Membury Primary School, Membury village and the School Govenors. To book contact Lucy Pearse winifredsfudge@gmail.com or 07488364117 or catch me on the school run.
National Tree Week – 27th Nov To 4th Dec
Membury planting event.
Unfortunately, due to being unable to source a much in demand Devon Whitebeam, there has been a change in the previous plan for tree planting in Membury for National Tree Week.
The spot in the Churchyard will be reserved for next year’s royal jubilee.
So instead , please do join us if you are able on Weds 1st Dec at 2pm to celebrate the planting of an Oak Tree in a plot donated by Helen and David Neill, by the Public Footpath which goes through the gate by Rock Mill, then along past the back of the Mill up the incline until you reach a new latch gate, then over the beck and up on the right hand side before you reach the next gate. Boots or wellies recommended!
Jan Lazar and Helen Neill.
Want to see your business grow?
Made in Devon is a new ‘buy-local’ business support scheme from Devon County Council and is looking to help 125 businesses a year with free scheme membership. Benefits include Trading Standards advice and being part of major promotional campaigns that will make the most of new consumer trends to support local, independent businesses and artisans.
To qualify you need to be a Devon-based business who takes pride in supporting other local companies and goes out of your way to use materials and ingredients produced in Devon. To find out more visit www.madeindevon.org.uk. Made in Devon is part of the well-established Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme.
This Week in Membury
Monday November 22nd
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday November 23rd
Membury Parish Council Meeting in the Village Hall at 7:30PM
Wednesday November 24th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7PM
Thursday November 25th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday November 26th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1-4PM
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6PM
Saturday November 27th
Stockland Christmas Market in Stockland Victory Hall 10-12noon
Sunday November 28th
Advent Sunday: Morning Worship at Membury Church at 11AM
Next Week in Membury
Monday November 29th
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday November 30th
Wednesday December 1st
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7PM
Thursday December 2nd
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday December 3rd
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1-4PM
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6PM
Saturday December 4th
Sunday December 5th
Christingle Service in the Church – 4PM with the church band All welcome!
News from Membury November 19th 2021
Google Street Car
The Google streetcar drove past us yesterday – a little car with four roof mounted cameras. I don’t know how long they take to update the street view images but I doubt it’ll take too long!
Jurassic Blue
Very few spaces left for the show tomorrow (20th). Contact Jill to book your fish and chips, your musical entertainment or both Jill-folletts@outlook.com or 01404881641).
Jigsaws and Books
I’ve had a positive response to the suggestion that we bring back the jigsaw and book swap at the Village Hall, and I’ll be putting a crate down there over the weekend. Please bring along any puzzles or games you’ve finished with to get the whole thing going.
Light Up Axminster
Axminster Christmas Light switch on tomorrow (20th) 16:00 – 20:00 Trinity Square and Minster Green – funfair, Punch and Judy, face painting, music, games, market, food and drink, Axminster carnival torchlight procession
Jurassic Art and Craft FayreTomorrow (20th) 10:00 – 16:00 at Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre
free admission
Axminster Health and Wellbeing Centre
Foodbank christmas donations
This year the Foodbank is placing two green crates in St Mary’s Church, Silver Street, Axminster on Saturday 20th November from 4pm – 8pm during the Light Up Axminster celebrations.
Please help us provide Christmas dinner foods for our clients by placing the following foods in our crates. Thank you so much in advance for your donations.
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2fc7cc7
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2fcfc1e
COVID-19 case rates in Devon are above the national average and continuing to rise. Cases are highest in Northern Devon, with Torridge in particular having one of the highest rates in the country. Most cases are in the late teen, school and college-age population.
The government has made a new announcement this week about when you should take a lateral flow device test.
Previously, the advice has been to take LFD tests regularly twice a week. But the new advice is that people in England should be taking a LFD test on days when they are more likely to catch or spread COVID-19. For example: when they will be in a high-risk situation that day, such as mixing with other people in crowded indoor spaces where there is limited fresh air before they visit people who are at higher risk of severe illness if they were to get COVID-19
Churchinford Village Hall
School Newsletter
News from Membury November 18th 2021
Oak Apple Café Menu
Daniel and Jan will be your hosts tomorrow at the café with some help again from Terry. Come along from 1pm and enjoy:
- Chilli, Garlic and Onion sausage rolls
- Apple, Honey and Mustard Sausage Rolls
- A simple Ploughman’s
- Carrot, Leek and Lentil Soup
- Remembrance Cake
- Date and Walnut Cake
- Victoria Sponge
- Banana and Dark Chocolate Loaf (gluten free)
Silverware Stolen in East Devon Burglary
Public urged to look out for stolen items
Police are appealing to the public for information after valuable silverware was taken from a rural East Devon property.
Offenders entered the Colyford house around 3am on 4 November and stole a number of silver items, some of which are antique.
Items taken include an antique solid silver napkin ring in a navy blue hinged box, an antique silver mustard pot with a blue glass lining, and a more modern solid silver bonbon dish with a gilt lining.
The offenders also stole a Tiffany ballpoint pen with the initials ‘Y&R’ on the clip and housed in a Tiffany box, plus a silver-coloured wire wine basket.
Police are investigating the burglary and appealing to members of the public to keep an eye out for the stolen items at local car boot sales, second-hand shops or antique fairs.
Memorial Service
The memorial service for Diana Troake is at Dalwood Church at 14:00 on Saturday
Membury Lanes Awareness
May I start by saying a BIG thankyou to everyone who is driving safely, and with due care, through the village.
A reasonable request, I think?
Unfortunately, not everyone who lives here is driving with others in mind
So I’m putting pen to paper to say,
Please have consideration for
Firstly, our school children who are often using our lanes for exercising or for a project for school during school hours with their teachers. They also go to the playing field for games lessons come summer.
Of course, if you live in the village, you will know that parents will be walking their children into school and from school, while other residents are out walking their dogs or meeting up with friends. There are no pavements in Membury.
I’m afraid I cannot change the delivery drivers driving habits as they are working to a timescale no doubt and the village has voted not to have signage, speed bumps etc being erected up and down the Street and around the village! It would look more like Piccadilly Circus! I would also like to address this plea to those that drive off early for work. If you’re coming through the village, please think about those who are still enjoying their sleep! It does make a difference!!
So once more I’m asking everyone to think about their speed (There are bends in the lanes you know and residents do step into the road frequently!) It will keep everyone a lot safer!
So please drive in and around our village at a thoughtful, low, speed.
Thank you very much indeed!
Judy Martin
Carols Under the Stars
Friday 3rd December 2021 18:30 – 20:00
We are delighted to announce the return of Carols Under the Stars at the Wellington Monument.
The event will be shorter and a little more low-key than previous years, as we continue to be mindful of the risk of Covid-19. Nevertheless, it will still be a great opportunity to get together and enjoy the countryside, (fingers crossed) our star-lit skies, and the Wellington Monument lit up for the occasion.
There’ll be a toasty bonfire to keep us warm as we listen to and sing along with Blackdown Community Choir.
Despite all its challenges, this year has given us cause to celebrate. It is 30 years since Blackdown Hills was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and, this summer, work to restore the Wellington Monument was completed and the Monument reopened
On the night…
The singing will commence at 7pm led by Blackdown Community Choir.
We advise that you arrive around 15 minutes earlier to allow time to walk up the avenue to the Wellington Monument.
Parking at Wellington Monument is very limited so please do car share where possible. Unfortunately, we’re not able to run the minibus this year (but we do plan to reinstate it for next year’s event).
Mince pies, mulled wine and hot drinks will be available to purchase on arrival.
We will have a few printed copies of our song sheet available but encourage you to download an electronic copy to your phone. This will be available on Blackdown Hills website a few days before the event.
You’re welcome to stay and socialise by the fire after the singing but ask that you leave the site by 8.30pm.
Carols Under the Stars is weather dependent so we’ll be checking the forecast in the run up to the event. Before you set off, please visit https://blackdownhillsaonb.org.uk/event/carols-under-the-stars/. If we need to cancel to due to Covid or inclement weather, we’ll post an update there.
What’s on in Membury?
A new feature, which will be included each week from now on.
Next Week’s Events in Membury
Monday November 22nd
Yoga in the Village Hall at 9:45
Bellringing at 7:45PM
Tuesday November 23rd
Membury Parish Council Meeting in the Village Hall at 7:30PM
Wednesday November 24th
Short Mat Bowls in the Village Hall at 7PM
Thursday November 25th
Arts and Crafts in the Village Hall at 2PM
Badminton in the Village Hall at 6:30PM
Friday November 26th
Post Office in the Village Hall 1-3PM
Oak Apple Café in the Village Hall 1-4PM
S4YH in the Village Hall at 6PM
Saturday November 27th
Stockland Christmas Market in Stockland Victory Hall 10-12noon
Sunday November 28th
Morning Worship in Membury Church at 11AM
News from Membury November 17th 2021
Last Call for the Jurassic Blues
Book your place now for Fish and Chips on Saturday, an opportunity to see Jurassic Blue live in concert, and a chance to sample the Otter Amber. Please contact Jill Bellamy (Jill-folletts@outlook.com, or 01404881641).
Grow Wild – in conjunction with Kew
November is the time when darker evenings draw in, so this month we’re getting cosy and flexing our creative muscles as an antidote to the chillier weather.
Join us as we get creative and connect to nature in our free, online nature journaling workshop, Weds 24th November at 5:30pm. You don’t need any previous experience or artistic talent to get involved! Sign up here https://r1.dotdigital-pages.com/p/4VE8-8KT/join-journaling-workshop
Ravens
11th November 2021
The sunken lane from Furley to Thorn Farm, lined with mature oak trees, golden at this time of year. In the dim light of early morning, all is still and quiet, except the distant croaking of rooks. Then, overhead, a very different sound- a series of loud sharp honks- a huge black raven, the size of a buzzard, was passing ahead through a gap in the trees. Ravens are shy birds and perhaps it was surprised by my presence, because I was walking below the hedge-line. It’s not the first raven I’ve seen this autumn. In early October, in the Yarty valley, a pair was cavorting conspicuously in the crown of a small isolated tree. Apparently, the population of ravens is increasing in the west-country, an exotic addition to the diversity of our bird life.
Tony Marsh
Roadworks
Openreach seems to be based permanently in Membury these days. The road closure at Lewsley Lane is due to finish Friday but then from Monday 22nd the road from Clarence Cross to Membury Cross will be closed for 2 days followed by the road from Clarence Cross to Star Cross from the 24th to the 25th. Chapelcroft Road will then be closed from the 26th until 1st December. Let’s hope it’s all worth it!
We seem to be clear then until 18th December when it looks as if Membury Cross (at the big chestnut tree) will be out of action until the 22nd. Some of the diversion routes when this work is being carried out will be quite long. This work has been brought forward, having originally been scheduled for next February.
Sump Clearance
A request for the sump to be cleared of silt and other rubbish has been logged by EDDC Street Cleaning. Watch this space …
Parish Council Meeting
Councillors are summoned and members of the public are invited to attend the Council Meeting of Membury Parish Council, to be held in the Membury Village Hall on Tuesday 23rd November 2021 at 7:30pm to discuss the following matters:
Agenda
- Welcome:
- Apologies for Absence:
- Declarations of Interest under the Code of Conduct: Councillors are reminded of the need to declare any interests either at this stage of the meeting, or as soon as they become aware of the interest. The reason for the declaration must be given, and whether it is a personal or pecuniary interest; any actions they intend to take when the item is being dealt with
- Minutes: To adopt the minutes of the meeting held on 28th September 2021 as a true record.
- County and District Council Reports:
- Highways Matters:
- Finance:
- To approve the financial statement for October 2021
- To review the half year budget and discuss the budget for 2022/23 in preparation for setting the precept
- To consider grant request from TRIP
- To approve the following payments:
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting Contract – September STO £150.00
BT Group Broadband – September DD £ 32.40
Mrs R Davey Clerks’ Salary – September BACS £339.70
HMRC Clerks’ Tax – September BACS £ 10.00
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting Contract – October STO £150.00
BT Group Broadband – October DD £ 32.40
Mrs R Davey Clerks’ Salary – October BACS £339.70
HMRC Clerks’ Tax – October BACS £ 10.00
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting Contract – November STO £150.00
BT Group Broadband – November DD £ 32.40
Exe-Squared Ltd Website Domain Name BACS £ 84.00
Mrs R Davey Reimburse Grit Bin Purchase BACS £183.17
Other payments may arise for payment during the meeting
- Planning:
New Applications for consideration: 21/2902/FUL | Caravan Park Farm Membury Axminster EX13 7TB | Retention of existing agricultural workers mobile home
- Bonds Lane:
- Parish Councillor Reports:
- Clerks Report:
- Correspondence:
- Public Forum:
Date of the next Parish Council meeting: 08.02.2022
News from Membury November 15th 2021
Stockland Tennis Club
Christmas Skittles and Supper at the Kings Arms, Stockland on Thursday, 2nd December 2021 at 7pm.
We have booked the Skittle Alley and organised a 2-course supper and are looking forward to a fun filled evening and delicious meal to start off the Christmas season. It would be great to see club members past present and prospective, and also friends and partners.
For COVID considerations we are limiting the numbers to 40 and have requested increased ventilation.
Cost: £10 per person.
Please let me know (ted.espir@btinternet.com) if you would like to come as soon as possible and no later than 25/11/2021 to allow time for Kings Arms staff to plan
We look forward to seeing you.
Ted Espir and the STC Committee
Fancy getting fitter?
Anne Watkins has a Tunturi R25 rowing machine in good condition – free to a good home. It’s 1.7 metres long so you might need a van to collect it. See https://www.tunturi.com/en/cardio-fit-r25-rowing-machine.html for product manual.
Get in touch with Anne by ringing 01404 881630
Fancy yourself as a budding musician?
Claudia writes:
We have a small music band for some church services, and I am looking for new musicians to join us, Please don’t think you are not good enough, we welcome all abilities, it is a very good way to learn! We are playing for our Christingle service on 5th December at 4pm, any newcomers are welcome to join us (even on tambourines!)Please contact me on 01404 881129 / 07525144543 or my email address is claudiapearse@yahoo.co.uk if you are interested.
Fancy doing something puzzling?
One of the things that was introduced during the first lock down was the jigsaw swap at the village hall.
I’ve been asked to enquire if there is any interest in reviving this.
Please let me know if you think this is something you’d like to take advantage of over the long dark winter evenings.
East Devon District Council update
(Slightly delayed) https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2fbe98d
Stockland Christmas market
Saturday 27th November 10:00 – 12:00. For info and bookings please ring 01404 881535
It’s been a long time since the Hall held an indoor event, we hope you can be assured of a safe and festive Market, to this end some Covid measures will be in place on the day.
We politely ask that every adult attending wears a face mask unless seated for refreshments.
On entering the Hall a One Way system will operate,
Exit will be through storeroom door.
Hand sanitisers will be available in the Hall.
Do come and support.
Victory Hall Committee.
Dalwood Christmas Street Market
Saturday 4th December 16:00 – 18:00 with the Christmas lights switch on
Do you subscribe to Yarcombe E-Voices?
Miranda’s computer has packed up and she has lost access to her list of email contacts. If you subscribe to her excellent newsletter, please get in touch with her so she can continue to keep you in touch.
News from Membury November 12th 2021
Lost your keys?
A bunch of keys was dropped into the post-box at Morningside where Angela and Kenneth live. If you think they might be yours, please ring them on 01404 881030.
Membury MerryMakers
In addition to the visit of the fish and chip van from 6-7pm, Jurassic Blue, a local band, will be performing in the Village Hall on Saturday 20th November. We will also have a pop-up pub.
We will be limiting numbers to 50 people, and request that if you plan to attend you take a lateral flow test. Also, please don’t come if you have any symptoms of the nasty flu virus that is currently in our community.
The band will play 2 sets, one at 6:30pm and the second around 8pm.
We are recommending a donation of £5 per person to cover the bands expenses. Fish and chips will be charged at the usual rate of £6.
Please let Jill Bellamy (Jill-folletts@outlook.com, or 01404881641) know if you
1. Just want fish and chips
2. Just want to attend the performances
Or
3. Want both fish and chips and to come to the performances.
We need to track numbers – first come, first served!
Devon County Council Update
COVID-19 case rates in Devon continue to be above the national average.
The highest rates are in the zero to 19-year-old and 40 to 59-year-old age groups, although rates for both groups have continued to reduce. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2fbc202
At a loose end tonight?
Come and see the Oscar winning “Sound of Metal” at Cinechard tonight at 7 for 7:30. This is our second event at Holyrood School, Upper site.
Broadband
The Blackdown Hills Parish Network contributed the following submission to the Public Accounts Committee at Westminster concerning the lack of support for Project Gigabit by Connecting Devon and Somerset. https://westernmorning.news/2021/11/12/blackdown-hills-parish-network-bhpn-in-devon-somerset/
Membury Primary School Newsletter no. 9
News from Membury November 11th 2021
Village break ins
There have been two break ins around the Wambrook area this week. Please keep an eye out for vehicles and people in the area that you do not recognise, and please make sure that outbuildings are secure as tools and equipment have been taken.
Mud on the Road
If you travel to Kilmington via Beckford Bridge, please be aware that the road just past Dulcis Cross and in particular Nower Road (towards Dalwood) is very muddy and slippery. Please take care if you are using this route.
Mobile Library
We are sorry to have to let you know that the mobile library is unable to go out on the road on Friday as we are waiting for parts to be fitted. Your next visit will be on Friday 10 December. Any books that you have out will be renewed, and requested items kept until our next visit to your stop. We will be ringing customers who we don’t have an email address for, but if you have a friend or neighbour who gets on at the same stop as you, we would be grateful if you could let them know about this situation too.
Rosemary Remembrance Cake
Given that today is November 11th, Nigella Lawson has a recipe for Rosemary Remembrance Cake available here: https://www.nigella.com/recipes/rosemary-remembrance-cake
If I get time I’ll make one for the café tomorrow.
Wild East Devon News
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2fb65fb
Nature’s Dance – found twigs
News from Membury November 9th 2021
Bulb Planting
You may have noticed over the last few months the area around Star Cross has benefited from a little planting.
Having watched an interesting webinar regarding the development of hedgerows and verges with native, low maintenance planting, a few of us who live near the Cross were keen to enhance the welcome to the village at this point. Daniel kindly obtained confirmation from Devon Highways that they had no objections as long as the line of sight for motorists was not obscured at the junction. This resulted, initially, in the planting of some Cosmos and a trough. We hope you agree they are attractive additions.
We would now like to develop this idea further by planting daffodil bulbs in the verges at the crossroads and down towards Membury. Funding has been obtained and were looking for volunteers who would like to get involved! It is proposed we have a group bulb planting day on Saturday 13th November.
We hope you think this is a good idea and would like to get involved. Please contact Janice Hodge (minijohns@hotmail.com) or Jenny Beaman (jennybeaman@mac.com) to confirm.
Oak Apple Café
Pauline, Barry and Terry will be ministering to your palates on Friday at the Oak Apple Café. Come early or the sausage rolls will probably have run out!
You can look forward to
- Daniel’s vegetable soup
- Pauline’s Stilton, Apple and Chutney Bake
- Bobbie’s Sausage Rolls
- Pauline’s Fruitcake (or is that just how she refers to Barry?)
- Jenny’s Bara Brith Loaf
- Bobbie’s Blueberry and Lemon Cake
Aside from the food there’ll be Christmas cards for ARC available for you to purchase
Axminster Drama Club
Auditions tomorrow (Wednesday 10th) at The Plaza in Axminster for “Because of Love”, written and directed by Andy Coley. A moving play that focuses on the impact that a diagnosis of dementia can have on a family, set against a backdrop of the farming community. To be staged at Chardstock Village Hall on May 13th and 14th, and Kilmington on May 20th and 21st.
News from Membury November 8th 2021
Moviola
We’re showing Dream Horse tomorrow in the village hall, tickets £6, 7 for 7:30.
A heart-warming true story of the triumph of the underdog. Dream Alliance is an unlikely race horse bred by small-town Welsh bartender Jan Vokes. With no money and no experience, Jan persuades her neighbours to chip in their meagre earnings to help raise Dream in the hopes he can compete with the racing elites.
Community Christmas Card
Though the deadline for sending messages for inclusion in the Community Christmas card is technically past, we can extend it for a few days, (assuming we’re not the only ones who forget things!) £5 per 50 words in aid of Hospice Care, along with your greeting, to be left in an envelope (don’t forget to include your name!) in the tray in the Village Hall, or the mail box to the right-hand side of the main door, which is checked daily. Alternatively, you can e-mail your greeting to the Mercury address (mbrymcry@gmail.com) and donate by BACS to the Merrymakers account (number on p 28 of the Autumn Mercury). Finished card will be delivered with the Winter Mercury to all households in the Parish.
The Mercury team.
Membury Local History Society
Advance notice of the next event from the History Society:
A talk by the renowned local historian and broadcaster, Todd Gray
“Christmas Traditions in Devon”
Dr. Todd Gray MBE, Honorary Research Fellow of Exeter University is an expert on Devon history and its customs. His books, which include titles such as “The Garden History of Devon” and “How to Swear in Devon,” is to give the History Society’s Christmas Talk this year on Monday, 6th. December at 7.30 p.m. in Membury Village Hall.
Mulled wine, mince pies and other seasonal goodies will be available from 7.00 p.m.
Remembrance Day – 11th November
A short Remembrance service will be held at the Parish War Memorial at 1050 am on Thursday 11th of November. All are invited to attend and the school will be taking part. The full Remembrance service will be held in the church on Sunday the 14th of November.
101 years ago on November 7th, 1920, in strictest secrecy, four unidentified British bodies were exhumed from temporary battlefield cemeteries at Ypres, Arras, the Asine and the Somme.
None of the soldiers who did the digging were told why.
The bodies were taken by field ambulance to GHQ at St-Pol-Sur-Ter Noise. Once there, the bodies were draped with the union flag.
Sentries were posted and Brigadier-General Wyatt and a Colonel Gell selected one body at random. The other three were reburied.
A French Honour Guard was selected and stood by the coffin overnight of the chosen soldier overnight.
On the morning of the 8th November, a specially designed coffin made of oak from the grounds of Hampton Court arrived and the Unknown Warrior was placed inside.
On top was placed a crusaders sword and a shield on which was inscribed:
“A British Warrior who fell in the GREAT WAR 1914-1918 for King and Country”.
On the 9th of November, the Unknown Warrior was taken by horse-drawn carriage through Guards of Honour and the sound of tolling bells and bugle calls to the quayside.
There, he was saluted by Marechal Foche and loaded onto HMS Vernon bound for Dover. The coffin stood on the deck covered in wreaths, surrounded by the French Honour Guard.
Upon arrival at Dover, the Unknown Warrior was met with a nineteen gun salute – something that was normally only reserved for Field Marshals.
A special train had been arranged and he was then conveyed to Victoria Station, London.
He remained there overnight, and, on the morning of the 11th of November, he was finally taken to Westminster Abbey.
The idea of the unknown warrior was thought of by a Padre called David Railton who had served on the front line during the Great War the union flag he had used as an altar cloth whilst at the front, was the one that had been draped over the coffin.
It was his intention that all of the relatives of the 517,773 combatants whose bodies had not been identified could believe that the Unknown Warrior could very well be their lost husband, father, brother or son…
THIS is the reason we wear poppies.
We do not glorify war.
We remember – with humility – the great and the ultimate sacrifices that were made, not just in this war, but in every war and conflict where our service personnel have fought – to ensure the liberty and freedoms that we now take for granted.
Every year, on the 11th of November, we remember.
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.
Stockland Christmas Market
Stockland Victory Hall Saturday 27th November 10:00 – 12:00.
- Food stalls
- Festive Crafts
- Refreshments
- Lots more!
For information or booking call 01404 8815325
Axminster Musical Theatre
Make sure you don’t miss out. Get your tickets now for our performances on 16th – 20th November at: https://www.axmt.co.uk Or call into The Community Waffle House, Trinity Square, Axminster who are selling tickets for cash or cheque from Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 9pm.
Directed by Kelly Apps with Musical Direction from Joseph Binmore and Choreography by Jodie Glover, the show stars Silvey Webber in the title role, with Paul Matterface as Che and Mike Hamilton as Juan Peron.
East Devon District Council
Recycling & Waste: Quality Counts
We need your help to keep the quality of our recycling high, so that the materials we recover can be recycled. Unfortunately, we are currently unable to recycle ‘film’ and some ‘plastic’ packaging material. Please do not put the following in your recycling sack as we are unable to recycle them and they contaminate other materials: Polystyrene, bubble wrap, pill casings, crisp packets, shrink wrapping, confectionary wrappers, carrier bags, cling film.
You can however now take all flexible plastics to Tesco in Axminster, and place this type of waste in their plastic bag recycling.
News from Membury November 5th 2021
It’s a bit late to mention it, but Classic FM are doing a special radio programme for tonight and tomorrow night (6pm – 10pm) playing specifically calming classical music just for pets, designed by an animal therapy doctor. Apparently it’s very effective.
St John Baptist
There is a communion service in Membury parish church at 11.00 a.m. this Sunday
Beckford Bridge Update
Ted Espir took a great picture of the bridge just after the last deluge, and I forwarded it to the engineer which has prompted the following response:
“I went out to have a look on Monday and we’ve been discussing what the best approach would be. I think that at this stage of the year, doing any more reinstatement with soil/matting would probably be unwise, as it’s unlikely to grow any vegetation cover. Therefore, we’re going to place some rock armour – large boulders – along the top of the concrete wall that’s been exposed, to protect what bank remains. The rock armour already in place around the corners of the bridge has stayed put quite well, so I think if we use larger enough boulders they will also remain in place. When the masonry is completed, we’ll bring the level of this up higher than the top of the concrete wall, to stop the rock armour slipping off forwards. We will also be carrying out some planting of hedges/trees on these banks, which will enhance their stability going forwards. If required, we will be able to do some more topsoiling and seeding in the spring/summer to encourage more vegetation growth.
This work won’t require a further road closure, as the rock armour can easily be offloaded directly from the back of a grab lorry and put in place.”
What’s on at the Beehive?
8 November 2pm All Is Mended
12 November 8pm Police Dog Hogan
13 November 7.30pm Wishbone Ash
19,20,21 November No Time to Die
25 November 2pm Funny Face
26 November Shylock
27 November The Last Duel
For more details visit https://preview.mailerlite.com/t5r9f8
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2fadc19
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2fad7e9
Membury Primary School Newsletter 8
Carbon Literacy at COP26
On November 11th there is a day of free zoom workshops to explore how Carbon Literacy can help Local Authorities to deliver climate action. Anyone can sign up for this and get involved. https://events.zoom.us/ev/ADn_6GGJrhMz-UQ_aDEPMYTgHS2bxws_5wnEZc5CvCi767tgSs7mdGuFzELZEjh49ztqgZU?lmt=1635502242000.
Bird Flu Prevention
If you keep poultry of any sort, and any quantity you are probably aware of this, but if you aren’t please make sure you take the right precautions.
https://news-sky-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/news.sky.com/story/amp/bird-flu-prevention-zone-declared-across-uk-to-prevent-spread-of-disease-12459087
Go Wild at Home
Winner of the 2019 Countryfile Calendar competition, photographer David White has been capturing the wonderful wildlife on the River Otter for many years. Join the Exmouth Local Group next Monday for an evening of amazing images and be inspired!
Live on Monday 8 November, 7.30pm.
Book your free ticket here.
News from Membury November 4th 2021
Error in the Pews News
Please be aware that there was an error in the Pews News last week under services next Sunday 7th November.
There WILL be a Holy Communion service at 10.30am at the Minster this coming Sunday, 7th November.
At the Oak Apple Café Tomorrow …
Jenny and Mike and Allan will be hoping to fire your enthusiasm with these offerings, and poppies will also be on sale:
- Allan’s Bangers, Jacket Potatoes and Baked Beans
- Bobbie’s Savoury Catherine Wheels
- Jenny’s Chocolate Guy Fawkes Cake
- Bobbie’s Carrot Bonfire Cake
- Jenny’s Bonfire Night Cookies
Vaccination update
Tony Marsh has been able to book a 3rd booster dose in Greendale for next week and reports excellent availability there.
Does Anyone Have an Old Epson?
Tony goes on to say that if anyone has an old Epson printer, he has some spare Hummingbird cartridges TO802 and TO803, plus a complete set of nearly full cartridges Phone him on 01404 881319 if you can make use of them
Moor Meadows
The first of our autumn online talks starts today (Thursday) at 7.30pm. This inspiring talk, by author and wildlife documentary film-maker Nick Gates, celebrates the nature-rich habitat of the orchard. Register to receive the link here: https://orchardtalk.eventbrite.co.uk
Orchard: A Year in England’s Eden
Did you know that old orchards diversity can eclipse that of most nature reserves or designated wild places? That within its boughs can be found an ark of animals now almost impossible to find living side-by-side elsewhere in our countryside?
Kitten
Is anybody looking for a kitten? Suzie’s friend has a black kitten looking for a new home. Please get in touch with her on 07484 163901
News from Membury November 1st 2021
Membury Mercury
REMEMBER –
November 5th (this Friday!) is the deadline not only for copy for the Winter Mercury(news, views and interesting info all welcome) but for the community Christmas card, which is delivered to every household with the Mercury at the beginning of December. if you have not made your contribution yet, there is a tray in the Village Hall with paper, envelopes and pen for you to write your greeting – don’t forget to include your name! – and leave your donation for Hospice Care during Hall opening hours. Your can also leave your contribution in the mail box at the right hand side of the main door, which is emptied daily. Alternatively, you can send your greeting by e-mail to the Mercury address, and pay by BACS (see page 28 of the Autumn Mercury for number). Hurry-hurry-hurry!
The Mercury Team.
Also on November 5th
Jill Dudley is celebrating on bonfire night and there will be fireworks in the Yarty valley at 8.15pm for a few minutes (6 mins approx). This message is just to make you aware if you are in the area, and have nervous pets.
Booster Jab
If you don’t want to wait for Axminster Medical Practice to invite you for your 3rd booster jab, provided you are eligible, you can visit the Greendale vaccination centre near Exeter as a walk in between 09:00 and 19:00 every day. I am told that there are no slots that can be booked until the very end of November. You are eligible if you had your 2nd dose at least 182 days ago (6 months). You can also get a ‘flu jab from most chemists, (e.g. Morton’s Pharmacy in Axminster) if you are in one of the at-risk groups.
Merrymakers News
Quiz Night
Saturday evening saw a full house at the Membury Quiz Night. All 60 places had been booked well in advance demonstrating that the good people of Membury were ready to test their knowledge, and to reinstate old rivalries.
At the end of the evening the Membrains reclaimed their title (congratulations to Nick, Josée, Sam, Carey, Rob and Bethia), and Molly Barrell claimed the additional question prize. Only a former English teacher would know how many words there are in Shakespeare’s works .
A big thanks to quizmaster Jason, and to everyone who helped with hall set up, food preparation and clearing away. Many hands make light work.
It was great to see so many of our new parishioners, including Helen and Craig who described their charity The William Low Trust that raises funds for brain tumour research in memory of their son William. A donation was given from the evenings takings (charity question), boosted by Molly’s generous donation of her winnings, and with takings matched by the MerryMakers.
MerryMakers Committee
The MerryMakers will be holding their next committee meeting in early November (8th). We will be working on logistics for the remainder of this year’s events, and planning for 2022. It would be lovely to have some new members to help with planning and organisation, and to bring some new ideas. We have some committee members wanting to stand down after many years work. Please contact Jill Bellamy, Sue Nicholson or Daniel Lazar if you are interested in coming along to our meeting and getting involved.
Upcoming Events
We have 2 events planned in November. Moviola will take place on Tuesday November 9th when the movie Dream Horse will be shown. This will be followed a few days later by a musical evening with local band Jurassic Blue, planned for Saturday 20th November to coincide with the visit of the fish and chip van. Numbers WILL be restricted and we will be requesting that attendees take a COVID-19 test before attending. Info on how to book to follow. Watch this space.
Can You Help Our Friends in Yarcombe?
Have you served or are you serving in the armed forces?
Would you be willing to help out on remembrance Sunday in Yarcombe Church?
We need someone who is either in the armed forces or has served in them to take part in the Remembrance Service in Yarcombe Church this year. Is there anyone willing to help? The service starts at 10.50a.m. on 14th November. If you could help please contact Jean Rich, Churchwarden, on 01404 861274.
Reproduced from the Stockland Email Tree …
Any Sustainable Stocklanders out there?
As COP26 kicks off in Glasgow, I wondered whether any fellow Stocklanders or those nearby might be interested in coming together as a group to discuss the environment and taking local action in the community to reduce our impact on the planet?
As a starter for discussion, ideas might include a free community clothes swap to reduce clothing waste to landfill, repair sessions to help extend the life of household items, unusual item recycling points for things that aren’t collected on our doorsteps, film screenings and maybe even a directory of skills or items that people would be willing to share/swap with others in the village to help reduce the need for people to buy things they may only use very rarely.
If you’re interested in being a part of initial discussions, please drop me an email and depending on the response hopefully we can arrange a get together in the pub soon to share ideas and hopefully plan something great 🙂
Claire claireholgate@hotmail.co.uk
November Events at the Axminster Guildhall
Saturday 6th – Repair Café
Tuesday 16th – Wednesday 24th – Axminster Musical Theatre presents “Evita”
Thursday 18th – Nourish free lunch
Saturday 27th – Plastic Free Axminster Eco Christmas Fair
Sunday 28th – Carnival Bingo
News from Membury October 29th 2021
St John Baptist
there will not be a service in Membury church this Sunday because of staffing problems.
As from Monday 1st November, the church will be open from 9:30am – 3pm. Those who wish to access the church at other times, please contact the church wardens.
Freeview!
John Hodge has a Sony Bravia 40” LCD TV which he is about to replace. He would like to offer this round the village, if anyone is interested. First email to minijohns@hotmail.com gets it.
Fireworks
If you are having fireworks over the next week or so, please inform your neighbours, so any pets or animals are kept safe.
Yet More Rain
The Met Office has issued (i) a 12-hour Yellow Warning from 9pm tonight to 9am tomorrow and (ii) a 15-hour warning from Saturday midnight to 3pm on Sunday.
Given the recent hedge trimming that has taken place, and the quantity of leaves that came down yesterday, can you please check all the drains and gullies in your vicinity, and around your neighbours. If the water can’t get into the pipes, it ends up going down the road!
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f937e8
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f8b0ac
News from Membury October 28th 2021
Refuse bins
Refuse bins were refused!
I received a call today from East Devon District Council, and they have promised that the grey bins will be collected (by Suez) on Tuesday next week. I escalated the complaint since the green team (also Suez) managed to get through by some miracle.
Yellow warning of rain
Between 15:00 today (28th) and 09:00 tomorrow.
A band of rain will move east across southwest England later today and overnight, with further heavy rain affecting the west of the warning area into Friday morning. 20-30 mm of rain falling widely, with 50 mm in places and as much as 80 mm over the southern slopes of Dartmoor. We are right on the Eastern edge of the warning area.
The parish escaped relatively lightly from the last storm; let’s hope we are lucky again
Flooding up above Bowditch Farm
You will be pleased to hear that the flood above Bowditch has been cleared, and the stones left on the road will also be cleared shortly. A more permanent solution to issues at this spot has been identified, and I believe work will start on this next week.
Spring Forward, Fall Back
Don’t forget to adjust your clocks on Saturday night or Sunday morning. If anyone has difficulties in doing this get in touch and someone will come and sort it for you – although the waiting list for this service is 6 months!
Membury Quiz on Saturday
Here are just a couple of last minute bits of information –
Doors open at 7pm for drinks, the quiz will start at 7.30.
Due to the current COVID situation there will be a few extra safety precautions in place this year –
Please check in using the NHS app and the halls QR code available in the foyer.
There will be lots of hand sanitiser points throughout the hall.
Doors and windows will be open in each corner for extra ventilation
Please respect social distancing where possible.
Please do not attend if you have a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
…And finally, but most importantly –
PLEASE DO A LATERAL FLOW TEST ON FRIDAY… if positive please don’t come!
This event is a community fundraiser, organised and run by volunteers, please help keep them safe… but above all we hope you have a great time, and may the best team win!
News from Membury October 27th 2021
Refuse Collection
East Devon District Council are blaming “road closures” for the delay in collecting the grey bins. It seems curious that the garden waste green bin collection took place as scheduled, but the grey bin collection is stymied until at least next week. I am expecting a call back from the council; watch this space …
Tree Down
A tree was down on the Chard road, near the Ferne Animal Sanctuary. This may have been cleared by now – I received the message a while ago.
Oak Apple Café –
Be afraid, be very afraid …
It’s Halloween so we have a special menu for you
- Autumn Vegetable Soup with crusty bread and witches’ fingers
- Sausage Mummies
- Cheesy Snakes
- Sweet Pumpkin Pie
- Count Dracula’s Strawberry Cake
- The Werewolf’s favourite Chocolate Cake (GF)
- Spooky Ginger Biscuits
As usual we are open from 1:30pm until 4pm. Bobbie and Terry will be your hosts, with Helen.
Next week expect sparks to fly as Mike and Jenny celebrate November 5th with the help of Allan!
History Society
Paddleboat Theatre
The world-renowned* Paddleboat Theatre will be providing a workshop for the village school on Tuesday 2nd November, and will be performing Margot and Mr Whatsit at 4pm in the Village Hall. Entrance is free, and it’s open to the whole village!
*Well, renowned by Katy’s mum Ceri anyway!
Be safe, be considerate this Halloween and Fireworks Night
Everyone is looking forward to having a more normal Halloween and Fireworks Night this year, however some view this time of year with apprehension.
Whilst people are out having fun, it is important to remember how their behaviour might be affecting neighbours and vulnerable people living in the community, like the elderly and those with young children or living alone.
If children (and parents) are planning to go trick or treating we ask that you consider the following advice to help you stay safe and not cause distress to others:
- Never go trick or treating alone and always take an adult with you.
- Don’t knock on the doors of strangers
- Only visit houses where there are signs that trick or treaters are welcome, such as Halloween decorations and pumpkins outside.
- Keep your Halloween ‘tricks’ safe – damage to property or hurting someone is a crime. Threatening and abusive behaviour can amount to an offence too.
- Remember road safety rules, particularly after dark.
- Wear something bright so that drivers can see you.
- If you are planning on hosting your own firework party make sure you tell all your neighbours, especially those with pets who may be affected by the noise.
Membury Mercury Advertisers October 2021
All the people who pay for advertisements in the Mercury get a copy of their ad sent out every month by email to over 220 subscribers, as well as over 130 members of our Facebook group, and the ads are also placed on our website.
Please support these businesses – without them, there might not be a Membury Mercury!
The copy deadline for the next mercury is November 5th. We’ll also need your offerings for the Membury Christmas Card (at least £5 per 50 words) by the same date.
News from Membury October 26th 2021
The Quiz next Saturday
This is likely to be Jason’s swansong. After seven years of setting tricky questions for the village he is hoping to retire.
COVID cases in the area are rising rapidly. I’m told that currently Kilmington has the highest rate of infection in Devon. Since it’s half term week, a lot of quiz team members may be entertaining grandchildren or spending time with other family members. We request that everyone does a Lateral Flow Test before coming to the quiz, and stays away if they are showing any symptoms of COVID or the flu that seems to be going around the village.
If anyone doesn’t have a stock of tests we can arrange to have one delivered to them if they are unable to get to a chemist to pick some up.
Please also consider wearing a mask when not seated at your table.
Also, please remember to bring an extra pound coin for the special bonus question
Devon Dark Skies Week
We love Devon’s dark skies!
Watching a magical moon rise over the sea, gazing up at the stars and the Milky Way, catching a glimpse of a barn owl in the cool moonlight… There are so many ways we can enjoy our night skies away from the dazzle and distraction of artificial lighting.
It’s no wonder that the dark star-lit skies of Devon are so popular with residents and tourists alike.
Our wildlife needs darkness at night too. Light pollution can interrupt natural rhythms, including migration, reproduction and feeding patterns.
Whilst some lighting at night is important for our safety, unnecessary artificial light spilling into the night sky is a waste of money and energy, increasing our carbon emissions which in turn has a negative impact on our environment.
We are proud that Devon has the fourth darkest night skies in the country, with low levels of light pollution. (See CPRE’s Night Blight study)
Let’s do what we can to preserve Devon’s dark skies to benefit wildlife, tourism, and our own wellbeing.
Run for Frank
Claudia Pearse writes …
We had a brilliant day on Sunday, despite the weather! The run/ride went well, Catherine ran all the way faster than expected, and I managed to keep up on my horse, Flicka! We had fantastic support, from Suzie our photographer who came round with us on her quad bike, and with the rest of the family and other friends joining us at Challenger for the last three miles. We passed memorable places – Longbridge where Frank played skittles for many years for his brother John, Challenger Farm where he was born, grew up and farmed for many years. Membury village where he went to school, church and rang the church bells for many years – thank you to the bell ringers who rang for us on Sunday, it was very moving to hear them ring out as we came down into the village! And back home to Park Farm where we lived and farmed for over forty years. We had an amazing turnout back home afterwards, we had hot soup, tea and cake and a raffle, with donations on the day raising over £1600, and the Just giving page has raised over £2700!!! All for MNDA, a brilliant result. Thank you all so much to all those who made cakes, donated raffle prizes, helped on the day and getting ready, and to all who donated.
And especially to my daughter Catherine whose idea it was to run – the rest just sort of escalated!
Cliff Richard LIVE at Honiton Beehive!
The encore screening of Cliff’s live concert at The Royal Albert Hall is being screened in a special, socially distanced, seated show at The Beehive on Saturday night 30th Oct at 7pm.
You should see the trailer, man, he’s still got it!!
In 2018, Sir Cliff Richard was joined by 100,000 fans in cinemas worldwide to celebrate 60 years in the music industry. This October he invites you all to be part of the most fabulous big screen party of the year! This is a special encore screening of the live The Great 80 Tour concert at the Royal Albert Hall which is being held earlier in the week on Wednesday 27 October 2021.
Featuring a selection of his greatest hits, this will be Cliff Richard’s most exciting tour yet. His incredible energy and passion on stage will sweep you off your feet and be sure to have you swaying in the aisles. Either ring to book on 01404 384050 from 9am-5.30pm Mon-Fri or book online via this link: https://thebeehive.savoysystems.co.uk/TheBeehive.dll/TSelectItems.waSelectItemsPrompt.TcsWebMenuItem_1529.TcsWebTab_3772.TcsProgramme_784418
News from Membury October 23rd 2021
In Memory of Frank
Claudia and Catherine are inviting anyone who wishes to join them for the last leg (approx. 3 miles) of their half marathon to come and support them. This will be from Challenger Farm where Frank grew up at about 12:00, please be there by 11.45. Then they’ll be heading towards Yarty, down Policeman’s Hill through the village at 12.15ish where he went to school and church. It would be lovely for them to see some supporters along the way – to give them a cheer! Finally, up Butchers Hill back to his home at Park Farm.
Once back at the farm they will be serving hot pumpkin soup, cakes and refreshments, along with a raffle draw. All welcome to the farm for refreshments even if not running.
East Devon District Council Updates
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f85099
Devon County Council Updates
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f87a83
Axminster Awash
James Loveridge has published a great video on Facebook of Axminster under water.
His website is www.jamesloveridgephotography.co.uk.
https://www.facebook.com/jamesloveridgephotography/videos/179215964376052
News from Membury October 21st 2021
Working from Home?
Tired? Fed Up? Damp?
We’ve extended the range of savouries available at the Oak Apple Café – so why not pop by for a spot of lunch, and save yourself all that bother!
Tomorrow we have …
Daniel’s Spicy Sausage Rolls
Daniel’s Cheese Ploughman’s with Terry’s Pickles
Sue’s Roast parsnip Soup
Sue’s Hearty Moroccan soup
Rosie and Sam’s Carrot Cake Muffins
Jan and Sue’s Flapjacks
Bobbie’s Courgette and Lime cake
Daniel’s Apple Cake
13:30 to about 16:00 at the Village Hall.
We don’t have set prices – we accept donations that help us cover costs. Rates are high in Devon at the moment, so please consider wearing a mask until you are seated. Daniel and Sue who will be serving will both be suitably disguised.
This will be your last opportunity to pick up ARC raffle tickets, and your second opportunity to pick up ARC Christmas Cards – bring extra pennies!
Welcome to Little Goslins
We are Hannah, Kyle, Caspian (8) and Luna (3) de Bruin and moved to Membury from Marlow in Buckinghamshire. We all love being out in nature and swimming in the sea and have really enjoyed living in Devon so far.
We have felt very welcome since moving to Membury and we are looking forward to getting to know everyone in the coming weeks.
School Newsletter
It’s an inset day for the school tomorrow, and half term all next week.
News from Membury October 20th 2021
Pluvius has been checking his rain gauge and has reported to me that in their part of the village they had 31.1mm of rain overnight and early this morning. It looks like the heart of the village survived OK, but I’m told that there is some flooding on the road north of Bowditch Farm.
Yellow Warning of More Rain
Between 16:00 today (Wednesday) and 03:00 tomorrow.
An area of heavy rain reaching southwest England late Wednesday afternoon spreads eastwards across southern England, reaching the far southeast of England by mid-evening. Rain will last for around six hours in any location, finally clearing southeast England during the early hours of Thursday. Rain may be accompanied by coastal gales and, in a few places, thunder. 15 to 25 mm of rain is widely expected with 30 to 50 mm possible in a few places.
100 Club
David Neill reports that the October winners are:
Coco Neill £25**
Chris & Claire Carter £10
Heather & Richard Pearse £5
** After due consideration to the potential for a perceived conflict of interest, Coco has decided to reinvest her winnings in return for a new box of Bonio. “Everyone’s a winner” she says.
I will be dropping off winnings by hand to the two other winners in the next few days
On Behalf of the Church
Sara wants to say a huge ‘Thank You’, to all those who helped make the Harvest Festival Weekend a great success. Every village group & organisation made an outstanding display in the church, which were all individual, but complimentary to each other. Thanks also to Roger, for his lovely paintings reflecting autumn, James & Jo Strong for the feeding trough and Carrie & John Swarbrick for the churns. These all added to the displays. The concert went well, with many enjoying the acts. Thanks to Richard for being the MC for the night & Claudia for putting the programme together. Breakfast was fun, which Heather produced with her usual aplomb. There was added entertainment of the ‘Tea Towel Dance’. You’d have to be there to understand.
The result of this and people’s generosity has meant that the church has raised nearly £1000, which will go towards some much needed repairs.
Once again, thank you.
Remember, Remember the fifth of November –
Not for Gunpowder, Treason and Plot (not in Membury!) but because it’s the deadline for contributions to the Charity Christmas Card. Last year, it was hard to collect contributions, because the Village Hall was closed, but this year, you will be able to find a box with paper, pen and envelopes at all public events so that you can write your greeting (comic or sincere, in verse or prose, or simple good wishes) and enclose it in an envelope with your donation to Hospice care, this year’s charity and leave it in the box, which will be cleared regularly. Alternatively, you can find the BACS code for the Merrymakers on p 28 of the Autumn Mercury – please let us know if you have paid this way. We ask at least £5 per 50 words, and please remember to include your name.
Also, November 5th is the deadline for the Winter issue of the Mercury, so if you have something you would like printed in that, please forward to the usual address mbrymcry@gmail.com.
We look forward to hearing from you.
The Mercury Team.
Have you ever been told you can’t sing?
Then this is the place for you to come and prove people wrong! Everyone can sing especially with a group of people who enjoy it as much as we do.
The Sing for Your Health group (aka Membury Raucous Chorus) invite you to join us on Fridays from 6.00-7.00 in the village hall. We start preparing for Christmas events this week so an ideal opportunity to sing all the songs you love most. Everyone is welcome, especially if you’d love to sing but have been dissuaded in the past. Learn to breathe properly and have fun as well, we always manage to laugh quite a lot!
Quiz on 30th October
Only room for one more team, and two individual places!
East Devon District Council
Recycling Old Chargers
Old chargers cluttering up the house? You can put them in your green recycling box as small electricals for recycling. Chargers contain lots of valuable materials that can be recovered to make new products.
Please visit our website https://eastdevon.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste/recycling-and-waste-information/a-z-of-recycling-and-disposals/ Thank you for recycling.
A festive Celebration of Devon’s Communities
We’re thrilled to announce that Devon Communities Together will have a charity Christmas tree in Princesshay, Exeter, this year.
As a community charity, we’d love our tree to be a celebration of Devon’s communities, which is where we need your help.
Would you like to create a decoration that represents your community? Perhaps it could be a celebration of your community building, group or organisation? If so, we’d love to include it on our tree for thousands of festive shoppers to see.
There are two options:
1. If you’re feeling crafty you can create one completely from scratch but it does need to be COMPLETELY weatherproof. No paper, bread, pasta or rice decorations or anything else that will be destroyed or dissolved once wet. If laminating card, please punch any holes through the PLASTIC ONLY to help prevent them coming apart in wet weather. They also need to be able to be fastened securely in case of strong winds. Decorations should be around 6-8cm diameter/height. They will need to arrive at our offices in Exeter (see bottom of this email for the address) by 12th November at the latest.
It’s a very loose creative brief but we want everyone’s submissions to be unique!
2. A second option is for you to submit either a photo or image (drawing/colouring etc) that represents your community, plus a single sentence about your image. For example: ‘I love film nights at our local village hall’ (picture of village hall) or ‘Volunteering at the foodbank is important for my community’ or ‘My favourite place to relax is walking on Haytor’. These will be printed on double sided discs with the photo on one side and the message on the back, and inserted into clear, round baubles. The discs will be 6cm in diameter. We will be providing the baubles and doing the making – you just need to submit the image and wording to marketing@devoncommunities.org.uk by 10th November.
Sympathy from Ashford
I have received this from Dale Hall
“As a regular and appreciative reader of “News from Membury”, and as the North Devon editor of a sister publication, I sympathise with Daniel regarding the Apostrophe Police who seize on a moment’s misprint to demonstrate their knowledge of grammar. Let them try to produce a newsletter two or three times weekly – that’ll teach them how easy it is to make proofing mistakes!”
In Memory of Frank
Just a reminder about Catherine and my Run/Ride on Sunday 24th October, which we are doing in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) and in memory of Frank. We are starting our route at 10am and hope to finish at about 12.30pm. We are inviting anyone who would like to join us from Challenger Farm at approximately 12pm for the last 3 miles (parking available). Any children must be accompanied by an adult. After the run/ride we are inviting everyone up to Park Farm for refreshments and a raffle. All donations to MNDA. A huge thank you to those who have already contributed via our Just Giving page – we have already raised over £1500!!
Here is the link if you wish to donate: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/catherine-chown-claudia-pearse
Look forward to seeing you all on Sunday!
Claudia Pearse
News from Membury October 19th 2021
Yellow Warning of Thunderstorms
Between 04:00 and 12:00 on Wednesday 20 October.
An area of heavy rain and thunderstorms will move quickly eastwards across Wales and southwestern England into parts of central, southern and eastern England during Wednesday morning. Many areas will see a spell of rain whilst some places will be affected by thunderstorms bringing a brief period of heavy rain, lightning, and strong, gusty winds with hail also affecting some spots. Gusts will tend to peak at 40-50 mph, but whilst very unlikely in any one place, much stronger winds are possible here and there, then potentially damaging some structures.
More Roadworks
OpenReach will be working between Wellands Cross and the Sewage Works next week, bringing the properties there into the 21st Century with decent broadband. The road will be closed, but open for emergency vehicles – and presumably for access.
Erratum
It took only seconds for my misplaced apostrophe when describing the French house owned by the Bells’ to attract criticism. Words fail me – as does punctuation.
The Quiz
Seven teams are now booked in – only room for three more.
History Society
The intrepid adventures of Brigadier Stephen Tetlow MBE as he retraced the steps of Ernest Shackleton in the Antarctic will be celebrated at the Village Hall on Monday 1st November. All welcome
Seaton Music
Thursday 21st October 7:30pm at The Gateway in Seaton.
Come and hear the Vienna Mozart trio play three pieces by Mozart and Schumann. Visit http://www.seatonmusic.org/index.html for more information.
The Gateway Theatre is being meticulous about sanitising the premises. In addition, there will be hand sanitisers at the door. Some social distancing will be possible
The bar will be open as usual at all concerts.
Axe Vale and District Conservation Society
Bird Watching at RSPB Bowling Green Marsh Monday 1st November 10:00 – 14:00
If you plan to come, please contact Rob Johnson on: 01297 553 173.
Meet at Darts Farm in the lower car park (grid reference: SX977883. Postcode: EX3 0QH)
At the end of the bird watch, the leader will ask for a small contribution to Society funds (suggested donation: £2)
We are sorry – no dogs on bird watches
Stockland Tennis Club
The Tennis Club AGM will be held at the King’s Arms, Stockland, Honiton. EX14 9BS on 21st October 2021 at 7.30pm. All welcome.
Stockland and Yarcombe Toddler Group
Term time Friday mornings 9:30 – 11:30 at Stockland Victory Hall EX14 9EF
Come along for a cuppa, chat and biscuits.
For baby to school age children, sensory play, crafts, toys for all ages. £2 per session.
Call 07951 958327 for more information.
The Devon Climate Assembly: why how, what?
Wednesday 20th October 18:00, Online
Find out more about Devon’s citizens’ assembly on climate change, including why it was held, how it was run and its recommendations.
Devon Climate Emergency held a citizens’ assembly to consider how Devon should meet the big challenges of climate change. A representative sample of 70 Devon citizens from different social backgrounds and ages were invited to take part in the Devon Climate Assembly over the summer of 2021. Their recommendations are now public.
Kaela Scott from Involve, the independent facilitators of the Devon Climate Assembly, will present the assembly report and be available to answer your questions about the citizens’ assembly process.
The Devon Climate Emergency project manager, Emily Reed, will explain the next steps towards completing the Devon Carbon Plan.
The Devon Climate Assembly: why how, what? Tickets, Wed 20 Oct 2021 at 18:00 | Eventbrite
If only Patricia was still in the village!
Simon and Ruth Foster have been busy…
Hand dived, shucked scallops from Lyme this weekend. £12 for 15.
Let him know if you are interested. Pick up from Beckford farm. Not sure of available quantity as yet, depends on weather – obviously.
Axminster Medical Practice
FLU JABS AND COVID BOOSTERS (INCLUDING 3rd DOSES FOR IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENTS)
We have a large number of patients (5,268 still to go as of today) who need flu jabs. It will take time to get through everyone but we are working as quickly as we can. We are writing to patients with appointment dates – please wait to hear from us.
We will shortly be contacting immunocompromised patients who need a 3rd dose of COVID vaccination. We are also contacting patients who require a booster jab (at least 6 months after your 2nd jab).
Please be reassured that we are booking patients for flu and COVID boosters as efficiently as we can, and we will contact you when it is your turn. Please do not contact the surgery, we do not have capacity to fit you in sooner.
News from Membury October 18th 2021
Thank you from Doreen
Doreen Hosking wishes to thank everyone who attended her 80th Birthday Party in the Village Hall a few days ago. It was a wonderful occasion, and really nice to see the Hall used for a big celebration. £170 was raised for Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Fancy a holiday home in the Dordogne?
The Bell’s are selling their French Estate for €198,000 – that’s only £167,000.
If four families got together and split the cost it would only be just over £40k each – how’s that for a bargain?
It’s in Saint-Just, and it is described as a character 4 bed home with 2 bed gite and pool, near La Tour Blanche in the heart of the Dordogne countryside.
More details here: https://www.frenchestateagents.com/french-property-for-sale/view/82402DG24
Contact Sarah Bell sarah@bellvg.co.uk to close the deal!
Village Hall
Don’t forget that the Village Hall AGM will take place on Monday 25th October at 7pm. Come along to find out what plans the trustees have for revamping the outside space between the hall and the school.
Roadworks
OpenReach is doing work this week between Wellands Cross and Beckford Cross, so the road over Beckford Bridge will be closed until the weekend.
Otter Amber
There’s some beer left after the fish and chips night. It ought to be good for a day or two. If anyone would like some, in return for a small contribution, please find a suitable receptacle and give me a shout
The Quiz
Don’t forget to book your team in for the quiz on October 30th!
A new scam
A parishioner received a message looking entirely genuine from Facebook offering them a code to reset their password, and giving them the opportunity to change it directly, along with a message.
Before you follow instructions like this for any account you use – please check the account and see if it appears to be blocked, or has been changed
News from Membury October 15th 2021
We were entertained beautifully by Owl Class from Membury School who sang and played their recorders for us at the Oak Apple Café on Friday. All of Barbara’s chocolate cup cakes were devoured as were most of Helen’s cookies and Bobbie’s white chocolate and raspberry squares. For some reason the children weren’t interested in the spicy sausage rolls, but one or two of the parishioners made up for it!
Membury School Weekly Newsletter
And they are recruiting for next year!
Devon and Cornwall Police
The force has seen an increase in abandoned 999 calls recently. Their advice is that if you do accidentally “pocket dial” 999, please don’t just hang up, but wait until the call is answered and let the operator know that all is well. If you disconnect before speaking to someone, the 999 operators will have to research your number to ensure that you are not vulnerable, and they will make several attempts to call you back wasting their time and yours.
Devon County Council Update
Cases of coronavirus in Devon have increased over the last week, and are now similar to the national average rate of 376 cases per 100,000 people. They’re currently highest in the 10 to 14-year-old age groups.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f76860
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f6e66e
The redwings are back!
Roger saw the first few redwings the other day – they are harbingers of autumn, and the fieldfares will be close behind! If you have any windfall apples, let them lie on the ground and they’ll soon be eaten by these beautiful birds both of which are types of thrush. A free cup of tea at the café for the first decent photograph this year of either species
Sign up for the quiz
The sign-up sheet for the quiz on October 30th will be available at the Fish and Chips evening, and the café next week. Don’t forget that we are limiting teams to just 10 this year, and we anticipate having to turn people away.
Farm Open Weekend
Looking for something to do this weekend? Then look no further. Pop down to Daisy’s Dairy at South Waterhayne Farm, Yarcombe, EX14 9AX where you can meet the cows and find out more about where you milk comes from. They have a special guest cow who children can have a go at milking and PUMPKINS for sale! as well as their milk, milkshakes, flapjacks and shortbread.
Pop in to see them 10am-3pm this Saturday and Sunday.
News from Membury October 14th 2021
Food 1: Oak Apple Café
We will be welcoming the school over at 2:45pm on Friday.
Owl class will be performing the song they have been learning in music along with recorder accompaniment and all children will also bring some examples of work they are proud of.
The parents will be coming too and we hope they’ll stay for cake and a cup of something hot!
Food 2: Harvest Festival at St John Baptist
If the food at the café doesn’t fill you up, there’s always the option of the Harvest Festival Breakfast from 08:00 Saturday in the Village Hall. A Full English lovingly curated by Heather will set you back a mere £7.50. Other options will be available, including take-away.
Food 3: Fish and Chips – Final Reminder
If you want Fish and chips on Saturday don’t forget to let Jill know – 01404 881641 or jill-folletts@outlook.com
Food 4: Yarcombe Inn
If you are still hungry, the Yarcombe Inn has a carvery on Sunday. Call them to book a table 01404 515019.
They also have an “Octoberfest” beer festival running on Saturday 16th
Membury Quiz Night
The Membury MerryMakers Quiz Night will take place on Saturday October 30th in the Village Hall – 7pm for a 7:30 start (not the 31st as advertised in the latest Mercury).
To conform with the village hall COVID-19 guidelines we are limiting numbers to 60 people …. 10 teams of 6 people, with priority given to those from the parish and the school. The entry fee is £5.
A light ploughman’s supper will be served during the evening.
If you would like to participate please contact Jill on 01404881641, drop your details in the village hall letterbox or sign up when you are visiting the hall (sign up sheet available from Friday 15th).
Don’t worry if you don’t have a full team as we will be able to make up teams on the night.
Please advise any dietary requirements. BYO drinks.
Villages in Action
Want to watch amazing theatre from the comfort of your own home this autumn? Villages in Action will be screening Assembleth Theatre’s mythical comedy Shodyssey on their new online streaming platform from 18th-20th October!
Recommended for 11+ | 60 mins
To buy a ticket visit: https://villagesinaction.ssboxoffice.com/events/shodyssey/
Wild East Devon News
Lots of half term events for families!
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f6e50c
Axminster Bowls Club
Who is that handsome figure on the right?
ARC Christmas Cards
Contact Suzie, or purchase from the oak Apple Café.
The Membury Pack has 5 cards of each of 2 designs at £4.50 per pack.
Has it really come to this?
Only Three quid from Wilco
News from Membury October 11th 2021
Moviola
Don’t forget that we are showing “The Last Bus” starring Timothy Spall in the Village Hall tomorrow at 7pm. £6 per ticket payable by card or in cash, and Baboo ice creams at only £1.50 each. There’s five gallons of Otter Amber at £3 per pint, and plenty of wine too.
Oak Apple Café
We will be welcoming the school over at 2:45pm on Friday.
Owl class will be performing the song they have been learning in music along with recorder accompaniment and all children will also bring some examples of work they are proud of.
The parents will be coming too and we hope they’ll stay for cake and a cup of something hot!
Harvest Festival at St John Baptist
The church will not be open Wednesday morning, as the school will be setting up their display for the harvest festival. Thank you for your cooperation & understanding with this.
The Harvest Flower Festival will be open from 10am on Friday through to Sunday 17th at 3pm. Please come to see the amazing displays put on by various village groups. Free entry but donations accepted.
Don’t forget the concert on Friday at 7:30pm, then Harvest Brunch from 8am -12noon on Saturday. Sit down to a full English or a take away option.
Fish and Chips
It’s that time of the month when the fish and chip van puts in an appearance at the hall car park on Saturday from 6pm. £6 gets you your food, but it’s a pound extra for the curry sauce or mushy peas. Please let Jill know how many portions you want and don’t just turn up without having preordered! You can reach her on 01404 881641 or jill-folletts@outlook.com
An update from Honiton Beehive
At The Beehive next weekend, we have the wondrous India Electric Co with a special guest at 7.30pm on Friday 15th Oct – described as:
“Two of the most extraordinary musicians, a phenomenal duo” – BBC Radio 2 “this is a real treat for the ears!”
You can book tickets for India Electric Co here https://thebeehive.savoysystems.co.uk/TheBeehive.dll/TSelectItems.waSelectItemsPrompt.TcsWebMenuItem_1529.TcsWebTab_3773.TcsProgramme_637976
On Saturday 16th at 7.30pm with have another duo this time –
Chris While (vocals, guitar, banjo, dulcimer, bodhran and percussion) & Julie Matthews (vocals, piano, guitar, mandolin and bouzouki) are stunning singers, songwriters, musicians and performers whose energy and commitment to their craft, and to their audience, is boundless.
The undisputed queens of British folk duos continue to come up with the goods,
1st class songs delivered with to die for harmonies, immaculate musicianship & melodies that lodge themselves in your brain” – The Guardian
You can book tickets for While & Matthews here https://thebeehive.savoysystems.co.uk/TheBeehive.dll/TSelectItems.waSelectItemsPrompt.TcsWebMenuItem_1529.TcsWebTab_1530.TcsPerformance_752583.TcsSection_564736
Fed up of Membury and in London for the Weekend?
Visit the Canopy market at Kings Cross from 15th to 17th for the free Craft Chocolate Takeover Fair. Among the exhibitors you’ll find Chocolarder offering some of their fabulous bean to bar chocolate and awesome truffles – fine quality, stone ground chocolate using organic beans imported from single estate, family run plantations in Venezuela, Java, Madagascar, Peru and the Dominican Republic. The select beans used at Chocolarder are roasted, winnowed and ground over 4 days before being left to mature for 30 days. The chocolate is then hand tempered and made into bars before being lovingly wrapped in plastic free packaging. This obsessive attention to detail yields some of the finest chocolate in production today.
In the interest of honesty I ought to declare a family interest in this company!
And if you don’t like chocolate …
There is a free online talk by the Earth Worm Society as follows:
“Keiron Derek Brown will provide tips and guidance on how you can improve the earthworm diversity and abundance within your garden, regardless of if you have a small urban garden or extensive grounds. This talk is being presented one week before World Earthworm Day – register here: https://www.earthwormsoc.org.uk/GardeningTalk2021
Job Vacancy, Stockland Primary Academy
Midday Supervisor
Hours: 1.25 per week (Friday lunchtime)
Salary Grade 17.1 (£17,842 pro rata)
Working weeks Term time only (38 weeks per year)
Permanent
Stockland Primary Academy is part of The Redstart Learning Partnership and are seeking to appoint a Midday Supervisory Assistant to join our team. We require a Lunchtime Supervisor to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children during the lunchtime break. The successful candidate will have a calm and positive manner with children and will assist in promoting positive behaviour on the playground as well as engaging children in playground games.
Closing date: 16:00 on Wednesday 13th October 2021
Interviews Wednesday 20th October
Start Date ASAP
For further information including job details and an application form, please visit the Trust website on http://www.theredstartlearningpartnership.co.uk
Please send your completed application form to stockland@redstartpartnership.co.uk
Please note: Applications by CV or incomplete forms will not be considered.
TRLP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure & Barring Service check.
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f68acb
News from Membury October 8th 2021
Farewell Nat and Patricia Bruzon
We are leaving on Wednesday, and would like to bid farewell to our friends in Membury, as we start our new adventure near our family in Corsham. We are very sad to leave this wonderful village which we found by chance when we were looking for a sensible house with downstairs bedrooms (and we promptly installed an upstairs room). It seems ironic that twenty years on we are moving into a totally unsuitable house (with a small garden) and rather a lot of stairs, but we just felt the house was right for us. (gorgeous kitchen) . So the decision to buy a 500 year old cottage was made , and at the end of the day stair lifts with emergency telephones can be installed, as readers of the Mercury might recall from Nat’s Ramblings.
Thank you for the many kind messages we have received, we will miss you, but we hope to return for the mesmerising dramatic offerings by Membury thespians.
A final word of thanks for the amazing people who have made such a difference to our life here,not just with fun and friendship, but with HELP which has been invaluable. It is more than appreciated.
Bins in the car park
The decision was taken at the parish council meeting on September 28th to replace the bin in the car park by the village hall.
Forthcoming Roadworks
The road from Wellands Cross to Beckford Cross (over Beckford Bridge) will be closed between 18th October and 22nd October for Openreach to do their stuff
Orchard: A Year in England’s Eden
Online Talk 4th November, 7.30pm, plus Question & Answer session
Tickets are free, but you’ll need to book to receive the link:
Book here: https://orchardtalk.eventbrite.co.uk
Orchards have been a traditional component of the British landscape for many centuries. However, the majority of old orchards have been destroyed and now only a fraction remain. As late as 1991, there was Government legislation – ‘The Apple Orchard Grubbing Up Regulation’ – that paid for the removal of orchards.
The value of these orchards for wildlife, as well as people, has long been underestimated. Old orchards are crucibles of biodiversity, playing home to a wealth of wildlife from beetles to butterflies, hedgehogs to dormice.
Nick Gates and Ben Macdonald spent years visiting a magical traditional orchard, uncovering more of its stories each season and observing its secret life. Their book, Orchard: A Year in England’s Eden was the result of their passion.
Nick will also share how he brought many of the principles that makes the orchard such a fantastic wildlife haven into his own small wildlife garden in Bristol, with some really notable species successes, including Purple Hairstreak and Great Crested Newt.
Join us on November 4th at 7.30pm to be inspired – it only takes six trees to create an orchard. The talk will be followed by a Question & Answer session.
This talk is a collaboration with community group Orchard Link and there will be a short introduction on their activities and how others are creating and restoring orchards in Devon.
Oak Apple Café
Thank you, Mike, Jenny and Helen, for working so hard at the café today – we had over 30 people and it was buzzin’
We’ll have a treat for you next week – watch this space for details!
Acorn Academy Newsletter
Village Hall AGM
This is just a reminder for the Village Hall Committee AGM which is taking place on Monday 25th October at 7:00pm in the Village Hall. An agenda will be published when it has been confirmed
Trees at Beckford Bridge
The tree wardens have taken note of the suggestions from parishioners and have been in touch with the engineer Liz. It is hoped that tree planting can take place during Tree Week (November 27th – December 4th), and anyone who wants to help will be very welcome.
Devon County Council Update
A slow and steady increase across the county in the school age and 40-59 year old population, but Devon rates are still below the national average.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f62900
Devon Climate Emergency October Update
https://mailchi.mp/55504a53e9ec/september-newsletter-6556128
Seaton Music
News from Membury October 7th 2021
Membury Moviola
Tuesday night is movie night!
Come down to the village hall at 7:00pm on Tuesday to see “Last Bus” starring Timothy Spall.
There’ll be beer, there’ll be wine and there’ll be ice creams to tickle your taste buds. The credit card machine is up and running, so come along even if you don’t have the cash!
Cinechard
The critically acclaimed film Nomadland which won 3 Oscars last year (best film, best director and best actress), starring Frances McDormand, is showing at Holyrood Academy in Chard at 7:30pm tomorrow (Friday). Tickets are £5 but as an opening offer, they’re buy one get one free. All the best films are better on a large screen!
It’s a large hall, so you can choose to be as socially distanced as you wish.
St John Baptist
There is a communion service at11.00 a.m. this Sunday 10th October in Membury Church
News from Membury October 6th 2021
Forewarned is Forearmed
I’ve just been informed that we are in for a significant road closure next year. You might consider this a little premature to publish now, but it has implications for deliveries, moving, and other things. There’s every chance that the weather might scupper the work, so watch this space for updates …
The diversions are going to be quite long and the map shown here has been amended from that supplied by the contractor. It affects both Cat 7 & 8 roads (road closure is mainly on Cat 7 & one on Cat 8).
It’s going to cause some problems, however, there is no alternative due to the works required which are described as “Civil work- laying duct in carriageway (one way) 40 m and core drill in a jointing chamber x 2”
The closure is planned for 21/02/2022-27/02/22 but with any luck they’ll finish earlier.
Jason Runs Away
Jason Hawkes writes:
“Three years after entering, I finally got to take part in the London Marathon, running for Brain Research- a charity close to mine and Kirsten’s hearts. A massive thanks to everyone who sponsored me and sent messages of encouragement. Way back, I held a sweepstake for people to guess my finishing time, with the prize being 20% of the sweep and a bottle of wine. I finished in 4:59 and am delighted to say that David Dodd guessed closest with 4:50. So, £20 to David and- as he isn’t a wine person- Kirsten is throwing in one of her amazing pots of Marmalade. If anyone finds a pound down the back of the sofa, the link is still live, with Kirsten’s story as part of it. Thanks again to everyone’
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JasonHawkes2”
Devon Communities Together
Devon Communities Together is the Rural Community Council for Devon. They are an independent charity with nearly 60 years’ experience of community development work. Founded in 1961 they have accumulated a wealth of experience in helping communities resolve and progress the matters that are important to them.
They are currently recruiting for a number of exciting new roles at the moment, all of which will help to plan and deliver impactful projects and services, designed to support people and communities throughout Devon.
1. Project Managers x2
We are increasing our management team and are recruiting for 2 full time, experienced and motivated Project Managers to help deliver our portfolio of services to Devon’s communities. We would welcome applications from people especially with Community Development, Regeneration and Management backgrounds. Closing date: 9am Friday 15th October
Visit https://www.devoncommunities.org.uk/project-manager for more details
2. Community Development Officer
Do you have the energy and enthusiasm to support Devon’s people and communities? Our newest Community Development Officer will deliver a portfolio of projects, including frontline work with communities.
You will be adaptable and innovative, with a ‘can do’ attitude. You will need to be passionate about asset-based community development, brilliant at communicating, a great organiser and self-starter. Closing date: 9am Monday 25th October
visit https://www.devoncommunities.org.uk/community-development-officer for more details
Paddleboat Theatre
The postponed performance of “Margo and Mr Whatsit” will now take place at 4pm on Tuesday 2nd November I the Village Hall. Everyone will be very welcome.
Stockland Halloween Ball
Friday, 29th October 2021 at the Victory Hall
8.00-12.00 with the frighteningly fabulous AREA52
Licensed Bar
Tickets: £12.50 from Kim 01404 881466 or David 01404 881207
£50 prize for the best fancy-dress outfit.
Limited tickets available so early booking is essential – extra safety measures will be in place this year.
News from Membury October 4th 2021
Yellow Warning of Rain
Between 17:00 on Mon 4 Oct 2021 and 04:00 on Tue 5 Oct 2021
A band of heavy rain, accompanied by strong and gusty winds, will move eastwards across Wales and southwest England into central and southern England this evening. 20-30 mm of rain could fall in a few hours with as much as 40-50 mm in a few spots in southwest England, South Wales and also north-western parts of Wales. Western parts of the warning area, except northwest Wales, will become drier from the west through the evening.
Membury Harvest Weekend
Harvest Brunch will be available from 8am – 12noon, Saturday 16th October, with the option of eat in or take away, plus vegan options.
To eat in, full breakfast with cereal, juice, full English with poached or scrambled egg, tea or coffee, for £7:50.
So come walk the dog, grab your paper, enjoy breakfast before going to visit the flower festival.
In Memory of Frank
On Sunday 24th October my daughter Catherine and I will be doing a half marathon around Membury in memory of Frank, and to raise awareness and funds for Motor Neurone Disease Association. She will be running and I will be riding my horse. I realise there are a lot of “newcomers” in Membury who would not have known Frank. It will be two years since he passed away due to him contracting this cruel disease. Please read our Just Giving Page in which Catherine has written a bit about him. Please support us by giving generously if you can. We will be passing through the village near the end of our rum/ride on the day, and invite everyone up to Park Farm afterwards for tea and cake. More details on that later.
Thanks for your support
Claudia Pearse and family
You can donate to their JustGiving page by clicking here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/catherine-chown-claudia-pearse?utm_source=Sharethis&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=catherine-chown-claudia-pearse&utm_campaign=pfp-email&utm_term=6adcf01db0c4467b9b497c9eb9fe8a56.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to Motor Neurone Disease Association, so it’s the most efficient way to give – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
East Devon District Council Residents Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f4c9df
Devon County Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f545b4
ARC Axminster
Kilmington Villager is on the Road for Climate Change
Judith Simpson, a passionate member of the local community feels so strongly about the need to raise critical matter of Climate Change on the global agenda that she has decided to put other aspects of her life on hold for 30 days and walk the 432 miles from Kilmington to Glasgow where the Cop26 international climate change conference will be held. Targeting 16-18 miles a day, SHE HAS SET OFF on this long walk to Glasgow.
The conference is due to begin in Glasgow on November 1st 2021, She isaiming to be there when it starts and plans to travel there by foot whilst keeping CO2 emissions to a minimum.
You can sponsor Judith and show your support for Climate Change via her just-giving page
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/judithcop26
Devon and Cornwall Police
Seeking the views of young people
We are seeking the views of young people, aged 16-25, on our plans to establish a Youth Advisory Group. We really want this group to include individuals with lots of different life experiences, opinions and ideas, and we want young people to be truly involved from the ground up in creating this group.
Please can you share this survey link with your staff and colleagues, and colleagues from partner agencies and networks, and ask them to encourage any young people that they are working with to complete the survey – we want to hear from as many young people as possible, even those that don’t necessarily want to be part of the Youth Advisory Group. They don’t need to provide their name or any personal information on the survey, but if they are interested in applying to be part of the group in future, they can provide their contact details at the end of the survey.
The online survey can be accessed via the link below.
https://services.devon-cornwall.police.uk/surveys/youth-advisory/
Have your say on firearms licensing
The National Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) has launched a public survey looking at potential changes to the licensing of firearms and shotguns in England and Wales.
The topic is particularly pertinent in the South West following the tragic shootings at Keyham in Plymouth last month where five people lost their lives.
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, has urged people in the South West to take part in the short survey, which takes just a few minutes to complete.
The survey will remain open until Wednesday 20 October and can be accessed here https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/5J7PV2K.
Membury Badminton Club
Open Evening Thursday 7th October 6.30pm-8.00pm
Membury Village Hall
Come along for drinks, snacks and to try out a fun sport or get back into the game.
We are a friendly group and Membury’s best kept secret way of keeping fit through the winter!
All ages and all abilities welcome.
If you don’t have a racket we can lend you one.
Further information Email: trina.noyes@hotmail.com or ruth.foster12@gmail.com
Membury Primary School Newsletter
The school newsletter will be shared regularly in future
News from Membury October 1st 2021
Paddleboat Theatre
Unfortunately, a member of Paddleboat Theatre has contracted COVID-19, so the performance on Wednesday 6th October has been postponed. As soon as I get a date for when it will be rescheduled to I’ll let you know.
Half term Creative Writing
Matt Harvey, a poet and performer with much experience of wordplay and riddles, will be your guide. Matt’s way with words has taken him from Totnes to the Edinburgh Festival and beyond. He is the creator of the superhero Empath Man, and author of Where Earwigs Dare https://mattharvey.co.uk/.
Power of Words – Expect the Unexpected
A free creative writing programme for young people aged 13 – 16 at Exeter Cathedral
Wednesday, 27th October 13:30 – 15:30 and Thursday, 28th October 10:30 – 15:30
By booking this workshop, you will be signing up for both sessions.
For more information go to
https://www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk/news-events/whats-on/the-power-of-words-expect-the-unexpected-free-workshop/
Beckford Bridge
Liz the engineer has updated me on the bridge.
“I thought I would drop you a line to let you know the latest from Beckford. The works are mostly complete, all that is remaining is the final masonry facing on the two new concrete training walls upstream of the new bridge, which is why there is still some Heras fencing up on the eastern side of the bridge. If you’ve been down there recently you will have noticed that we have made a start on this masonry and not finished it – this was due to a very long lead in time on stone from the quarry, so please be assured we intend (weather permitting) to return to site and complete this as soon as the stone arrives. If the weather and river levels are against us we will complete this in the spring, but I am hoping that since the masonry work won’t take more than a few days, we will hopefully get a weather window!
I am also looking to get some trees planted on the eastern bank, and hedging plants on the western bank – I am told the best time for tree planting is November, so we will look to do this around then. Did you have any particular preference for the species of tree we should plant? If not I would look to get something that is reasonably fast growing, and not adverse to slightly damp conditions!”
Hair Today, Gone Tuesday
Jo and Tony Bailey’s daughter Amber has been cutting and colouring hair for over 20 years and will be in the village until Tuesday evening. If anyone is interested in a haircut please call 01404 881274
They have lateral flow tests at Haycroft to test for COVID should that be a concern.
Exmoor Dark Skies Festival 2021
Friday 22nd October to Sunday 7th November
This popular festival, kindly sponsored by www.celestron.com will be in its 5th Year in 2021, with around 50 festival events for families and adults taking place all over Exmoor.
https://www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/enjoying/stargazing/dark-skies-festival
World mental Health Awareness Day 10th October
How can you get creative in helping raise mental health awareness in your community?
If you’re under the age of 25, living in Axminster or surrounding areas and have experienced mental health issues yourself or among family and friends and would like to submit a creative piece of art (can be anonymous) that represents how your experience of mental health felt or would look like to others. This can be a photo, painting, drawing, poem, short story, musical piece, video or something you have already made.
All creative pieces will be displayed at the Pippins community centre and on our social media in line with World mental health day.
If you would like to get creative or need more info, please email lola.coombs@actioneastdevon.org or call 07741646427. We ask that your art is dropped to Pippins community centre on Thursday the 7th of Oct between 4pm-5:30 or email a copy over to the above email address.
Membury School
For their Geography topic in Robins class this term they are focusing on ‘Our Local Area’ and they are trying to find out as much about Membury as possible, in particular the school.
If you have any stories about what the school was like when you attended it please drop a note to Miss Upchurch at the school at bupchurch@acornacademy.org
Axminster Medical Practice
Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt
The media and certain politicians have done a pretty good job recently in turning patients against doctors and creating further division between primary and secondary care. “Why isn’t my GP seeing patients?” has been headline news, despite GP surgeries working above capacity throughout the pandemic. Doctors and nurses then respond with negative letters about working conditions and burnout, and all this does is fuel the flames of Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt.
Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt (FUD) is a propaganda tactic used to influence perception and divert attention by spreading negative and dubious or false information.
We at Axminster Medical Practice don’t think all this negativity is helpful. The vast majority of our patients are well aware of the pressures we are under and know that we are trying our best. We know that our patients, just like us, have been through a dreadful 18 months and will have been affected in countless different ways. We are, and always have been on the same side. We are all human. Axminster Medical Practice wants to provide the best possible service that we can for our patients whilst remembering that our staff are human too and need looking after.
So enough of the anger, suspicion, Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt. Don’t fall for the propaganda. Let’s work together to help each other.
Over the next few days we will post some helpful (we think anyway!) links to information or apps that can help patients feel safe and empowered that they are doing the right thing in either self-caring or contacting us. As always, if you are worried about your health, or have some concerning symptoms – please fill out an online consultation or call reception.
We are open. We have always been open. We are working extremely hard, and we are very busy – but we will still get back to you on the same day.
News from Membury September 27th 2021
Paddleboat Theatre
On Wednesday 6th October, Membury Primary Academy is welcoming the Paddleboat Theatre company for a day of workshops. At 4.40pm, we would like to invite children, parents, families and local residents to join us in watching Paddleboat Theatre’s production of ‘Margo and Mr Whatsit’ at the village hall.
If you would like further details, please contact Miss Wickens at the school – telephone 01404 881491
Do you have an imaginary friend? A little piece of mischief only you can see?
Sophia’s imaginary friend is called Mr. Whatsit. No matter where Sophia finds herself living, he’s always there with a new joke to tell and a new game to play.
But when Sophia moves into her new foster home, Mr Whatsit finds himself unimagined! Now Sophia has a new imaginary friend – the glamourous, grown-up Margo.
Can Mr. Whatsit’s childish playfulness keep him from being unimagined for good? And with her imaginary friends competing against each other, will Sophia manage to find her forever home?
PaddleBoat Theatre Company present an interactive make-believe tale where the real and imaginary collide, and friends are never far away.
Pews News Extra
As you are aware we have our Drive In Harvest this coming Saturday (2nd October) at 4pm up at Great Jackleigh Farm, Wyke, Axminster
We are now very pleased to advise you that all are invited to a Cream Tea to be served from 2.30pm at the Farm prior to the Harvest service.
Please do come along and enjoy a wonderful cream tea together before celebrating Harvest.
Should the weather not be favourable the event will take place in the barn so we can all still enjoy a cream tea without getting wet!
We look forward to welcoming you all from 2.30pm.
Yarcombe Apple Pressing 2021
Clive Stone from Yarcombe writes:
“Following the success of the apple pressing arrangements last year, I would like to repeat the format again this year, with one or two slight changes.
The complete DIY approach at various locations around Yarcombe and Marsh in 2020, ensured that those of you who had a bumper crop and those friends and neighbours who combined to have a joint pressing, also benefitted from making the most of the opportunity to ensure that their apples did not all end up as compost.
If you would like to make a small batch of cider from your apples, I have some demijohns kindly donated by Steve Horner, which would be ideal for this purpose and while it might not be the traditional way of making cider, it can produce some very palatable refreshment. Apple juice can also be frozen in small quantities and kept for many months and with organic apple juice selling for about £3 a litre, it makes sense to press your own apples and make delicious juice.
The changed format also resulted in a very large increase in donations in 2020 compared with the previous year, including some generous donations of £40 & £50 which were very much appreciated and we were delighted that we were able to donate £300 to Yarcombe Voices.
This year it is proposed to distribute the donations to three organisations that were unable to hold their functions in 2020.
If you would like to use the apple pressing equipment in the comfort of your home surroundings to press your own crop of apples, please let me know. This will involve you collecting the equipment and returning it that same day. Thank you to everyone for their cleaning efforts on each occasion it was out on its travels last year.
Thank you, Clive Stone, 01404 861174”
News from the Yarcombe Inn
We are overwhelmed with the support that we had on our opening weekend last Saturday and Sunday. We would like to thank everybody for their support and good wishes that we have received.
Best regards to you all,
Ashley and Renata
The Yarcombe Inn – opening hours:
Monday – Closed
Tuesday – Closed
Wednesday – 12:00-22:00
Thursday – 12:00-22:30
Friday – 12:00-23:00
Saturday – 12:00-23:00
Sunday – 12:00-17:00
(Bank holidays, Special events hours subject to change)
Stockland School Cross Country Marshals Needed
This is a shout out for marshals for the cross-country run on Wednesday 29th at the school. They are really struggling for helpers so would very much appreciate anyone who might be able to help with car parking, marshalling on the course or helping with the catering. Please get in touch with the school office if you can help 01404 881456
The Beehive, Honiton
Book tickets on 01404384050 or www.beehivehoniton.co.uk
Socially distanced Cinema – The Nest (15) 7.30pm on Friday 1st Oct.
Starring: Jude Law, Carrie Coon, Charlie Shotwell, Oona Roche
Duration: 117 mins.
Charismatic entrepreneur, Rory (Jude Law) relocates his family to England with dreams of profiting from booming 1980’s London. But as his wife, Allison (Carrie Coon), struggles to adapt, and the promise of a lucrative new beginning starts to unravel, the couple have to face the unwelcome truths lying beneath the surface of their marriage.
On Saturday 2nd Oct 8pm- The Unravelling Wilburys
Celebrating THE TRAVELING WILBURYS –
Roy Orbison, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne
This top tribute show is a great combination of brilliant musicianship, tongue in cheek humour and has had rave reviews throughout the UK, the band play their songs in their familiar country-rock style whilst stealing a few choice numbers from those famous five icons, Messrs Orbison, Harrison, Dylan, Petty and Lynne!
Has Wendy Lost the Plot?
If you should see two actors ( Emma and Josh) and a goat roaming around Stockland or in the King’s Arms do not be afeard, go up and have a word as they are ‘Running Dog Theatre’ and with the help of the community ( thanks Ben and the King’s team, Village Hall, Stockland School and Youth Club) they are developing a comic show around goats and conflict resolution to share with us next year.
Intrigued?? They’d love to chat with you and amongst other delights there will be an opportunity to find out what’s occurring and what they’ve been up to on Friday 15th Oct from 3.30pm- 5pm at the Village Hall so do drop in and say hello.
News from Membury September 26th 2021
Suzie’s Stars
Suzie’s Sheep – stars of the Christmas cards from ARC – are now back in the big field at Rock. They are totally free range, so she’d appreciate it if walkers could keep their dogs on leads or under tight control, and keep the gate closed as well. Many thanks.
Parish Council Meeting Tuesday 28th
If you want your views on the litter bins in the car park, planning issues or anything else taken into account, come along to the meeting at the village Hall on Tuesday.
Cinechard is back.
Tickets are now on sale in all the usual places in Chard – Barron’s, the PO and Eleos – for £5 and £2.50 in advance. Eleos no longer handle cash, so please put the correct money in an envelope. You can also purchase them online (for a small fee) on ticketsource/cinechard. On the door, tickets will be £6 and £3.
We really look forward to welcoming you back to CineChard at our new venue at the Upper Site at Holyrood Academy. For this, our first film in 18 months, buy one ticket to admit two people. Come and try it out – we welcome your comments.
Devon and Cornwall Police
Devon and Cornwall Police are setting up a Youth Advisory Group – a group of young people who will work with us to influence how the Police work with young people in the area. We want this group to include young people with lots of different experiences, opinions and ideas.
If you are a young person aged 16-25, or if you know young people aged 16-25, it would be great if they could spare 10 minutes to complete this survey to tell us how they would like this group to work. Even if they don’t want to be involved in the group, it would still be brilliant to hear from as many young people as possible.
They don’t need to tell us their name or any personal information, but if they are interested in being part of the group in the future, they can provide their contact details at the end.
Click here for the survey: https://services.devon-cornwall.police.uk/surveys/youth-advisory/
East Devon District Council Update
Winter opening times and cleaning schedules updated for East Devon public toilets; Special recycling guide issued to all East Devon residents; Half Term Outdoor Crafts at Seaton Wetlands; Call for new women business owners: This grant could help you!
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f42ee4
Devon County Council Update
Devon’s falling COVID-19 case rates have slowed down and are now levelling off, mainly driven by increases in cases among younger age groups.
East Devon, South Hams and West Devon in particular are seeing an increase in cases among younger people.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f42d29
Devon’s Best Young Landscape Artist Competition
News from Membury September 22nd 2021
And the winners are …
The September draw of the 100 club has taken place.
Peter Hornsby £25
Carole & Ashley Davies £10
Sue and Paul Nicholson £5
A message from Bill Sheppard
We’d like to say “thank you” to everyone in the parish for their help and support particularly over the last few weeks of Anne’s life. Kimberley and I had over 300 cards and many donations to Hospiscare. The support from everyone has left us feeling overwhelmed. We can’t believe how much people care about us, and Anne in particular.
Life will go on, and memories will fade, but for now the memories of Anne are very much alive. Scatter your wildflower seeds, and let’s brighten up the village in Anne’s name.
There was a huge turnout at the Crematorium. Thank you all for attending Anne’s funeral and for your cards, and support. You will never know how much this is appreciated by myself and Kimberley.
Membury Village Hall
Charity No 1166182
Trustee Committee AGM
To be held on Monday 25th October 2021 at 7pm, in the Village Hall.
Social distancing and all government guidelines will be adhered to.
All members of Membury Parish are welcome to attend to find out more about how the village hall is run and learn about what is happening in the hall.
Axminster Medical Practice
BOOSTER AND FLU VACCINES
We will write to patients when we have available flu vaccine for them. We are hoping that our first delivery will arrive this week. Please wait to be contacted.
A coronavirus (COVID-19) booster vaccine dose helps improve the protection you have from your first 2 doses of the vaccine.
It helps give you longer-term protection against getting seriously ill from COVID-19.
They will be available at mass vaccination sites and at Seaton Hospital delivered by our team. Please do not contact the surgery, you will be contacted when you are eligible.
Booster vaccine doses will be available on the NHS for people most at risk from COVID-19 who have already had 2 doses of a vaccine.
This includes:
-people aged 50 and over
-people who live and work in care homes
-frontline health and social care workers
-people aged 16 and over with a health condition that puts them at high risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19
-carers aged 16 and over
-people aged 16 and over who live with someone who is more likely to get infections (such as someone who has HIV, has had a transplant or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
You’ll be offered a booster dose at least 6 months after you had your 2nd dose.
The NHS will let you know when it’s your turn to have a booster dose. It’s important not to contact the NHS for one before then.
St John Baptist, Membury
There will be a service of Holy Communion on Sunday 26th in our church at 11:00am
Parish Council Agenda
Councillors are summoned and members of the public are invited to attend the Council Meeting of Membury Parish Council, to be held in the Membury Village Hall on Tuesday 28th September 2021 at 7:30pm to discuss the following matters:
Welcome:
- Apologies for Absence:
- Declarations of Interest under the Code of Conduct: Councillors are reminded of the need to declare any interests either at this stage of the meeting, or as soon as they become aware of the interest. The reason for the declaration must be given, and whether it is a personal or pecuniary interest; any actions they intend to take when the item is being dealt with
- Minutes: To adopt the minutes of the meeting held on 27th July 2021 as a true record.
- County and District Council Reports:
- Highways Matters:
- Finance:
- To approve the financial statement for August 2021
- To approve the following payments:
JJJ Wallace Grass Cutting Contract – May STO £150.00
BT Group Broadband – May DD £ 32.40
Mr R C Martin Grass Cutting BACS £210.00
Mr J N Robinson Playground Benches BACS £187.08
Mrs R Davey Clerks’ Salary – August BACS £279.70
HMRC Clerks’ Tax – August BACS £ 70.00
Mr D J Terry Footpath Maintenance BACS £138.00
Other payments may arise for payment during the meeting
- Planning:
New Applications for consideration: 21/2078/FUL & 21/2079/FUL – Park Farm, Membury – Construction of agricultural building to house livestock (retrospective)
Updates: 21/1107/FUL | Land East of Sunnyside Membury | Retrospective application for putting hardcore on existing track – Approved with conditions.
21/1812/FUL – Crawley Farm Yarcombe Honiton EX14 9AY – Erection of roof over existing silage store – Approved with conditions.
- Bonds Lane:
- Car Park Bin:
- RBLI Remembrance Tommy:
- Parish Councillor Reports:
- Clerks Report:
- Correspondence:
- Public Forum:
Date of the next Parish Council meeting: 23.11.2021
Tuckers Arms, Dalwood
Hello Everyone, we are the new owners of, The Tuckers Arms, Dalwood. We are only in week 3 since we have taken the keys from the lovely Tracey, Craig and Bev, and we have been busy bees. It’s been wonderful getting to know everyone and we have been really welcomed into the village which we can’t thank everyone enough.
We are open, up and running, however we are running on slightly changed and limited functions so please bear with us.
Opening times are very similar to Tracey and Craig’s times, however for the time being we are closed for food on Mondays and just opened for drinks in the evening from 6pm, so our brilliant chef can have a night off. Lunch is served 12-2.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, and Dinner is served 6pm-9pm Tuesday to Saturday. Sunday lunch is served 12pm-7pm
For the Bar, Tuesday to Saturday 12pm-3pm and 6pm-11pm and Sundays its 12pm-10:30pm
We are still building our menus and gaining suppliers so a set menu is to come, however food is made fresh daily using suppliers within a 30mile radius of the pub. Howard the chef/landlord provides a variety of meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan dishes can be altered to any dietary needs. Our website is in production, so once it’s up and running we will tell everyone and also release sample menus to give everyone an idea of the food we produce.
Our phone number is still the same, 01404881342 so everyone is welcome to give us a ring about any enquiries about us or would like to book a table.
Thank you again to Tracey McGowan and Craig, you have been amazing in the transition and helping us settle into the our new at the Tuckers Arms, you guys have been amazing we hope we honour what you left here in the future to come.
Hope to see you all done here for a pint soon,
Howard, Liz and Hannah
RD&E (Wonford) Parking
Fr Geoffrey has passed me some useful information.
A new one-way system is in force in the main hospital car park.
As you enter the hospital bearing right at the hospital roundabout, the new and only entrance to the car park is the first entry on the right. It is signed and has an indicator which states if there are spaces. A photographic registration plate recognition system is in operation.
Following the one way-system you find a parking space, park and proceed on your way.
You do NOT use the carpark ticket machine until you wish to exit.
On returning to the carpark go to the ticket machine, insert your registration number and the appropriate fee will appear on the screen. Insert the correct amount, (no change given,) or use your bank card. A receipt can be printed out for you but NO ticket is issued.
Return to your car and drive to the exit barrier. The photographic registration plate recognition system will recognise your car and automatically the barrier will be lifted and you can continue on your journey.
Hello Canada!
I was informed a few days ago that these newsletters have found their way to Canada. Hello to all Canadians reading this now!
If you’d like to pass me a snippet or two about life in your part of the world – perhaps with a photo or two I would be delighted to include it.
Pigs from Yarcombe
Miranda from Yarcombe has notified me of some extremely cute piglets on offer.
Birth notified rare breed Oxford Sandy and Black weaners for sale. Boars and gilts available, lovely condition. Ready to rehome after 28th September. Registered parents are pedigree good stock and good temperament and can be viewed.
Reared outside in woodland paddocks so electric fence trained. ID tagged, wormed and eating hard feed. Roughly weighing about 20 kilos at present. More pictures available or come to view.
Please contact Barbara King on 07561 822306 or email basouthcombe@icloud.com or Jon King on 07880 903728.
Membury Mercury Advertisers September 2021
All the people who pay for advertisements in the Mercury get a copy of their ad sent out every month by email to over 220 subscribers, as well as over 130 members of our Facebook group, and the ads are also placed on our website.
Please support these businesses – without them, there might not be a Membury Mercury!
The copy deadline for the next mercury is November 5th. We’ll also need your offerings for the Membury Christmas Card (at least £5 per 50 words) by the same date.
News from Membury September 20th 2021
From Devon with Love
The fish and chip van served 77 portions on Saturday – we think this is a record for the village. They actually ran out of fish before the queue finished, so the last 6 people had to make do with alternatives, AND THIS INCLUDED ME!
Please next time order in advance, and don’t just turn up on spec. You might again be depriving someone of their freshly caught fish, and next time it might be Jill!
Our mini-festival started with the Earth Gnomes with their interactive performance aimed at children, and that was followed by the sublime sounds of Julu and Heg, collectively known as Suthering. They are crowdfunding their CD at the moment. If you want to support them you can do it here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/suthering-s-debut-album/x/27661450#/.
Suthering was followed by The Secret Notes, a four piece band playing lively folk music featuring all sorts of different styles, with a very complicated set of electronic bits and pieces to facilitate loops and beats. It was all over not long after nine so we didn’t disturb the neighbours too much, and the comments I’ve had so far have been very positive. The whole thing was free, thanks to Villages in Action, facilitating rural touring in Devon. Thank you to all who came and supported it and thank you to the bar staff and other helpers. The credit card machine was smokin’ hot, and took nearly as much as the cash box!
Welcome
Michael and Lea have just moved into Bracken and write: –
“Thank you so much for the lovely warm welcome to Membury. We really enjoyed being at the Village Hall on our first weekend and look forward to many more sociable occasions in the future.
A little bit about us:
We have moved from Kent in search of peace, tranquillity, space, beautiful views and a village community we can become part of. In Membury we think we have found it!
We are semi-retired with a business in Kent we will still be involved with. We hope to spend most of our time in Devon gardening and walking (both of us), fishing and painting (Michael), playing tennis/badminton (Lea) and any other new activities we discover. We hope to become members of the village church and help out wherever we can.”
Chard Food Bank
Miranda from Yarcombe has sent me a message regarding the Lord’s Larder, the food bank in Chard. From October the organiser of the food bank needs to increase the number of volunteers packing bags between 10.30am and 12.30p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. This can be flexible and Maurice, who runs the food bank, hopes very much that some of you might be willing to volunteer a little of your time.
It is anticipated that there will be a rise in demand when the furlough scheme ends and fuel prices increase, so food donations and volunteers are urgently required.
If you might be willing to help out please contact Lin on 01404 861400 and she will forward your name to Maurice. Thank you.
Cinechard Returns
Cinechard is showing Nomadland at Holyrood Academy in Chard on October 8th at 7pm for 7:30. Tickets are £5 each (£6 on the door), but as a special opening offer you’ll get two tickets for the price of one. Tickets will be available shortly in Chard at Eleos, Barron’s or the Post Office, or online via ticketsource https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/cinechard/nomadland/e-ezdgjj
Stockland Halloween Ball
THE HALLOWEEN BALL IS BACK!!
Friday, 29th October 2021
8.00-12.00 with the frighteningly fabulous AREA52
Licensed Bar
Tickets: £12.50 from Kim 01404 881466 or David 01404 881207
£50 prize for the best fancy dress outfit.
Limited tickets available so early booking is essential -extra safety measures will be in place this year.
Yarcombe Parish Welcome Back Free Cream Tea
Sunday 3rd October 3:30pm – 5pm at the Jubilee Hall,.
If you have links to Yarcombe and want to go along, please RSVP to Jean Rich by 24th September jeanmaryrich@gmail.com
News from Membury September 18th 2021
Please note …
The time of the harvest concert on 15th October was incorrectly given as 7pm. It will be taking place at 7:30pm
Found Keys
Guy Derbyshire has found a set of keys in Lewsley Lane. If you recognise them get in touch with him at gaderbyshire@gmail.com
News from Membury September 17th 2021
The Passing of a loyal companion
Sandra Little had Ted put down today, he having been her companion for 13 years. He went everywhere with her, and everyone in the village knew and appreciated him. He even saved her life once a few years ago.
He will be much missed.
Anyone for Table-Tennis?
Helen and Craig at 8 Springfield have a full-sized table-tennis table taking up space in their conservatory that they would be delighted to offer to a good home in return for a small donation to their charity www.thewilliamlowtrust.org.uk. It’ll need storing indoors if the weather is wet, but it comes complete with bats, a net and balls. Contact them at craigandhelen@btinternet.com for more details or to go and see it.
Theft of Tractor Guidance System – Exeter
Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information in connection with the theft of a tractor guidance system from a tractor near Woodbury in the early hours of Thursday 9th September. The police have received several reports of this type of theft recently. They ask that anyone with tractor guidance systems review their security and consider marking property and keeping a note of serial numbers.
Anyone with information is asked to phone 101 or email 101@dc.police.uk quoting CR/078345/21.
RHS – 10 Ways to be More Sustainable in your Garden
https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/gardening-for-the-environment/planet-friendly-gardening-tips
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f10a75
Devon County Council Update
COVID-19 case rates in Devon have continued to fall in the last reported week, and are now below the national average. Case numbers are highest in our 0 to 19 year old age group.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f1f7c4
Trill on the Hill
There’s an open day at Trill on the Hill on 25th September 2pm – 5pm
Book your free ticket here: https://www.trillonthehill.co.uk/events/p/open-day
Don’t carry cash any longer?
The Merrymakers now have a card machine available at most events to making paying easier for you if you no longer carry cash. You can pay with a credit or debit card, apple pay and google pay. It’s all a little slower than paying with cash, so at busy times you may have to wait slightly longer.
News from Membury September 16th 2021
Anne’s funeral will be on Tuesday 21st September2021 at 10:45.
The funeral will be held at East Devon Crematorium, Whimple, London Road, Strete Ralegh, Whimple EX5 2PT
Dress is formal, but with a splash of colour, to echo the birds and butterflies Anne loved.
Afterwards we will be returning to Membury Village Hall, Membury, EX13 7AF and all are welcome if you would like a refreshment / break before travelling onward.
Anne stipulated that she did not want flowers and would like donations to Hospiscare.
The family are arranging an online memorial page for Anne and if you would like to donate you will be able to do that on there, also you will be able to add a personal message, a favourite photo or just light a virtual candle. The details will be on the order of service and I’ll post them here.
News from Membury September 15th 2021
St John Baptist
Sara Cranfield writes:
St John Baptist is having a Harvest Festival weekend, from 15th to 17th October. On the agenda will be the concert at 7pm on the Friday, Brunch in the hall from 8am on Saturday and ending with Harvest Festival Service 11am on the Sunday. During this time, there will be a flower festival in the church, with groups from the village making the floral artistry. Everyone is welcome to join in any & all the events.
However, in addition, I’d like to put on a display of photos which represents harvest & autumn. If you have any photos, monochrome or coloured, this year or a century ago or even from another country, it would be great to have them. Please drop them off in an envelope, with your name & address on the back of the photo so they can be returned to the correct owner, to me at either the church or 3 Springfield.
Thank you so much in anticipation.
Yarcombe Inn
Ashley and Renata take great pleasure in informing you that the Yarcombe Inn will be open from 2pm on Saturday 18th September. There will be a hog roast!
PYO Damsons
Jon Wells says that if any prospective jam or wine makers would like some free PYO damsons, then there are plenty of ripe ones available for picking in the hedge on the Greendown lane in front of Hillview, marked by the squashed ones in the road that have already dropped!
From Devon with Love
Free tickets for the festival are going fast – so get in touch with Jill on 01404 881641 or Daniel on 01404 881408 or visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/villages-in-action/t-yjvdrk. You can turn up on the night, but we cannot guarantee entrance, since we are limiting numbers. Please let us know if you want fish and chips as well.
Coming up at the Beehive
All events still socially distanced
Friday 17th September 7:30pm Phil Beer Solo Show £17
Saturday 18th September 7:30pm The Courier (12A) £7.50/£6.50
Tuesday 21st September 3:00pm Meet me at the Beehive £5 inc cream tea
Friday 24th September 7:30pm Our Ladies (15) £7.50/£6.50
Saturday 25th September 8:00pm Sound of the Sirens £12
Friday 1st October 7:30pm The Nest (15) £7.50/£6.50
More details here https://preview.mailerlite.com/f5b2p3/1773405350947461073/g2g6/
Membury and District Local History Society
The Membury and District Local History Society’s next meeting is on Tuesday, 21st. September.
Our talk on West Country Connections to Slavery has had to be deferred, but we are most fortunate in that our next speaker, Phil Smith is able to join us on that evening. Phil is a local historian and professional photographer who organises courses in nature photography. He has a most impressive website! http://www.philipsmithphoto.com
Please join us in Membury Village Hall on Tuesday, 21st. September for cheese and wine at 7.00 p.m. The talk starts at 7.30.
Oak Apple Café
Were you inspired by the film last night in the hall? Pop down on Friday afternoon and experience the delights that the bakers of Membury can offer. Some of us even have Michelin stars – sorry that should have read Michelin tyres.
And this Friday, for the first time in a long while there’ll be vegetable soup for your delectation and delight.
Last week we had a visit from some of the school children who were testing out the Baboo Gelato and some of the cakes. Thank you Leaane and Lucy for bringing them!
News from Membury September 13th 2021
From Devon With Love Special Edition!
The Fish and Chip van will be calling on Saturday 18th – but on this occasion there’ll be entertainment a-plenty for all starting early. This is all part of the From Devon With Love festival where we are one of three venues supported by Villages in Action with free entertainment for the evening.
To book free tickets to the show, fish and chips, or both, please contact Jill on 01404 881641 or Daniel on 01404 881408 or visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/villages-in-action/t-yjvdrk. You can turn up on the night, but we cannot guarantee entrance, since we are limiting numbers carefully.
If you want to contribute, there will be a collection for the artists on the night.
The show will all be recorded and available later on YouTube as part of the festival
5pm – The Earth Gnomes
Can you be as stealthy as an Earth Gnome? As fierce as a witch? Who will you choose to trust, and what will you save? The story is all up to you! As a story-maker, you’ll roll giant dice to see how your choices play out.
Once, in a land not too far from you now, the rocks of the Earth Gnomes were taken. They woke in anger, determined to take something back. Want to know how the story ends? So do we! You choose the path in The Earth Gnomes, an all-ages interactive storytelling based on local folk tales. Find Bluecap Adventures here https://www.bluecapadventures.com/
6pm – Food and drink
There will be a fish and chip van in the car park (£6 per portion cash only) and a bar in the hall featuring “Otter Amber” from the local brewery as well as a selection of wines, cans, and soft drinks and Gelato from Baboo, also based locally.
6.30pm – Suthering
Suthering is a folk duo made up of Heg Brignall and Julu Irvine. Their songs tell stories and champion female characters, creating new narratives for women which uphold and unearth the female heroines of folk.
Suthering’s music has a strong emphasis on close vocal harmonies with stripped back a cappella songs featuring in their live shows and recordings. The duo have just finished recording their debut album which is due for release in February 2022. Find them online here: https://www.facebook.com/suthering/
7.30pm – The Secret Notes
The Secret Notes mix instrumental folk that includes Irish, Celtic and Eastern European styles with traditional and original songs. The music spans from ambient soundscapes to lively dance tunes. Their use of ‘live’ looping and electronic effects with an occasional arrangement of a popular tune is part of their approach to bring a memorable and uplifting experience to audiences. Find them online here: https://www.facebook.com/thesecretnotesband/
News from Membury September 11th 2021
Moviola
Love Sarah is showing at the Village Hall on Tuesday at 7pm, for a 7:30 start. Tickets are £6 each. There will be a fully stocked bar, including a barrel of Otter Amber with beer at £3 per pint, and countless flavours of Baboo Gelato and sorbets, including Vegan options. I’m hoping the credit card machine will have arrived, but in case it hasn’t please continue to bring cash. Just turn up on the night, we aren’t taking advance bookings.
East Devon District Council Residents Update
Drivers parking in East Devon car parks won’t be able to use cash to buy ‘pay and display’ tickets in the coming days.
East Devon District Council has apologised for the inconvenience this has caused and thanked residents and visitors alike for their understanding and patience.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2f05669
Devon County Council Update
Devon’s COVID-19 rates approach national average, our public health experts are working with schools to reduce transmission and we’re offering free fruit and vegetable boxes to give children a healthy start
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2f0773d
Theft from Vehicles
From Devon and Cornwall Police:
We have received reports of thefts from vehicles in the Mid and East Devon area recently.
This has mainly taken place to vans, with power tools being the main items stolen.
The most recent report took place in Copplestone, Crediton sometime between 3.10am and 3.40am on Friday 10 September 2021, Hitachi and Makita power tools were stolen.
Please review your security and consider removing tools from vehicles if possible.
Anyone with information, offered any power tools or with CCTV in the area mentioned is asked to phone 101 or email 101@dc.police.uk quoting crime CR/078595/21.
Please phone 999 if you believe a crime is taking place.
E10 Petrol
A few days ago, the standard (95 octane) petrol grade in Great Britain became E10.
The change in fuel applies to petrol only. Diesel fuel will not be changing.
Almost all (95%) petrol-powered vehicles on the road today can use E10 petrol and all cars built since 2011 are. If your car is not compatible you can still use “super” grade petrol.
E10 petrol contains up to 10% renewable ethanol, which will help to reduce CO2 emissions associated with petrol vehicles and tackle climate change.
To check the compatibility of your car visit https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-e10-petrol
Jam making – the technical stuff
This is taken from the New Scientist.
Making jam is a great way to enjoy a glut of summer fruit. Sugar preserves work rather like a salt cure, with the high concentration of sugar drawing water out of microbial cells. Because sugar molecules are heavier than sodium and chloride ions, you need a lot more sugar to do the job. That is why jams are often made with a roughly equal weight of sugar to fruit. The moist yet solid consistency of jams and jellies comes from the physical structure of a gel, a sponge-like network that traps water molecules in separate pockets. The network is made from pectin, a polymer made of long chains of sugar molecules, found in plant cell walls.
Fruits such as quinces, apples and citrus fruits are high in pectin. For other fruits, you can add pectin to ensure that the jam sets – there is even a special jam sugar containing pectin for this purpose, though adding an apple to a batch of low-pectin fruit also works. To make the jam, start by heating the fruit gently with a little water to soften it. As it is heated, the pectin chains come loose from the cell walls and dissolve in the fluid released. In water, pectin molecules become negatively charged and repel each other, so they need help to join together into a gel network. Adding sugar when the fruit is cooked aids this: it helps the gel to form by attracting water molecules to itself, so the pectin molecules are more exposed to each other. Acid released when the fruit is heated neutralises the negative charges, allowing the pectin chains to bond. Bringing the mixture to the boil to evaporate water also helps bring the pectin molecules closer together. Some recipes call for lemon juice to be added at this stage, which provides additional pectin and acidity. The most challenging part of jam-making is knowing when to stop cooking the mixture and pour it into jars. Too early and the mixture won’t have “reduced” enough for the jam to set; boil it for too long and the pectin breaks up too much, stopping it from becoming jam.
One way to tell is to use a thermometer: the more water that is evaporated, the hotter the mixture gets. When it reaches 105°C, this indicates a sugar concentration of about 65 per cent, normally about right for the pectin molecules to join together (though that does depend on acidity and other factors). Another way is to chill a saucer in the freezer, then place a blob of jam on it. If the surface of the jam mixture “wrinkles” when you poke it with your finger, the jam will set and you should stop cooking.
If it fails to set, it may be because there wasn’t enough good-quality pectin in it, or that the pectin was damaged by prolonged heating. Or perhaps the mixture lacked enough acid. Reboiling it and adding liquid pectin or more acid may help.
Loo Review
If you are interested in giving your views on the public toilets in East Devon, please respond by 1st October, and use this link: https://eastdevon.gov.uk/community-engagement/public-toilet-review/
Church photographs
Thank you to all those that submitted photographs of the church for the book on Walks in East Devon that is being published by Tor Mark Books. All the entries were scrutinised by a moderately independent scrutineer, and the best half dozen were sent to the publisher for them to choose from, and with slight embarrassment I have to admit that mine was selected – it’s the same image that the editors of the Mercury used on their cover this issue
News from Membury September 9th 2021
Mud and Debris on the Road
After a long period of dry weather, the rain that we are enjoying today and over the next few days will make the roads more slippery everywhere. This will be exacerbated by mud – which is particularly bad at the moment above and below Uphay Farm on the main road to Axminster. This particular stretch of road is very, very slippery today
It’s also worth noting that homeowners are responsible for keeping the drains, perforated slabs, and gullies in their vicinity clear of leaves, debris and mud. Please spend a bit of time sorting this out – it’s in everybody’s interest, particularly at this time of year when the leaves are beginning to fall.
Flood Warden
It Looks like we have a volunteer to replace Richard Challis as the flood warden. Our new flood warden is tall, young, handsome and strong … To whom am I referring? Watch this space!
Thank you, Richard for all the hard work you’ve put in over the years, keeping the water flowing, clearing the drains and patrolling in the night when the weather is at its worst.
News from Membury September 7th 2021
Please note that the update on the village hall was from Richard Barrell, not me, so any queries should be addressed to him directly.
Yellow Warning of thunderstorms
An area of showers will move northwards across southwest England and south Wales on Wednesday. Whilst many areas will see little rainfall there is the chance of some heavy and thundery downpours developing, particularly late in the afternoon. Where these occur 30-50 mm of rain could fall in less than 3 hours though only a few spots would likely see these totals. Lightning may also be a hazard during the day.
Use what3words for your deliveries
Do drivers have trouble finding you?
When you order goods online, offer your what3words address in the comments field if there isn’t a dedicated box for it. This will allow precise location down to a 3m square.
My what3words address is on my email signature.
If you aren’t sure how to use w3w, just give me a shout!
Do you use Amazon?
If you shop with this company you can donate a proportion of what you spend to a local charity such as ARC at no cost to you. They’ve just received a payment of £58.78 from people who’ve signed up to www.smile.amazon.co.uk and nominated them.
Beans and Irises
Thanks to the donors of these from Helen Forbes-Low and Robert Rose. All have now been collected, but we still have various plants by our driveway at https://w3w.co/last.ridge.unusable.
Stockland Youth Club reopens this FRIDAY!
Stockland Youth Club will reopen at Stockland Victory Hall at 18:30 on Friday 10th September 2021. The club is for children aged 7 – 13 only. Meetings are held fortnightly and end at 20:00 and all children must be collected by a parent or designated adult.
If your child is a new member you will be required to complete a Parent Consent Form at the first meeting.
There is a subscription of £1 per meeting. We have a tuck shop at the club and should you wish your child to buy any items please give them a small amount of money. Most items cost just a few pence. These will now only be pre-wrapped confectionery and savouries.
COVID safe measures will be in place during each meeting. Children who have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID or have any symptoms must not attend the youth club.
The club can only keep going if we have adult volunteers to help so if you are interested please contact Mel Andrews or the Hall Chairman Brian Gosden.
For any further information please contact Mel Andrews the Club Leader at mel@adventurebabies.co.uk.
SUMMER WATCH ON THE STOCKLAND TURBARIES
After a disappointing spring, summer began with some fine weather in early June. Then there was a deluge at the end of the month followed by seemingly incessant rain in early July, with serious flooding in the village. Mid July saw a spell of sweltering weather with temperatures topping 30 degrees; wet weather returned and continued into August. As I write in late August under a clear blue sky, autumn is in the air. Kestrels did breed again. Geoff Pearce ringed five young on Quantock in early June; all fledged successfully. But the clutch of eggs in the box on the ridge of Horner Hill was abandoned, attributable to foul weather at this exposed site. The box was then occupied by a pair of Stock Doves and two chicks were later ringed by Geoff who was surprised to see a female Kestrel perched outside!
Sparrow hawks nested again in woodland at Quantock and at least two chicks fledged. Remote cameras positioned at boxes revealed that young Tawny Owls are fed frogs, an occasional newt and baby rabbits. For the first time, we have heard of no report that Spotted Flycatchers have bred within the parish this summer. Swallows seem to have had a fairly good season: Geoff has ringed more than 100 chicks. Interestingly, one nest was found under the eaves, not in a barn, at North Hill Farm.
A new pond, excavated early in June by Andy Podbery most skilfully and, for a
moment, precariously, at the northern end of Horner near the ruined cottages. It
filled quickly and has already attracted Blue Damselfly, Banded Demoiselle and Broad-bodied Chaser. The surface of the pond has now scummed over with an algal bloom, as could be expected. The wood-pasture nearby was topped by Robin Gundry in mid-July where I had counted 24 flowering spikes of Common Spotted Orchid a month earlier. There were hundreds, perhaps thousands, of Heath Spotted Orchid on Bucehayes Common and, to a lesser extent, at Quantock in June this year. They are clearly palatable to ponies who eat the spikes voraciously. I was disappointed to count only 16 spikes of Early Marsh Orchid, far fewer than in recent years. That was in mid June; the ponies had arrived a month earlier so I suspect that they were responsible for the lower count. We shall cordon off that part of the turbary in 2022 to protect this rare and beautiful orchid.
The pond on Quantock Common now has too much Duckweed which Geoff, his friend Dee and I have attempted to control, first by trawling a wooden boom across the surface using fishing reels from opposite banks. Then Geoff waded across the pond, removing mats of weed by hand, and this was more effective. The mats revealed the presence of newts, some large tadpoles and a couple of leeches; a Southern Hawker flew past. We think a Mallard may have a brood there now.
On a recent walk across the open heathy area of Horner Hill, I noted that the
bridleway is lined with Bell Heather and Ling, and further on there is a handsome
patch of Hawkweed. But much of the hillside is scrubbing up again and I am
disappointed to report that plans to use a “virtual fencing” system with ponies has for the moment fallen through. Pony grazing elsewhere on the turbaries has gone well, under the leadership of Heather Burnett. Thanks go to her and her band of lookerers for a job well done!
One from the Vaults
Today we had a visit from George Tatham, former occupant of Oxenways, and historian of the village. Amongst other old documents he passed me was the brochure for the sale of the estate by the trustees of the late Mrs Margaret M Manning-Kidd in 1940, comprising 687 acres – which at the time included Middlemoor Cottage, Undercleave Cottage, Brinscombe Farm, Chapplecroft Farm, Parks Farm and Turners Ground.
Amongst the description of the residence is the following:
“The gardens are a conspicuously charming feature but well within the compass of two men to maintain”. Ah, those were the days!
Looking for Work?
The Axminster Inn are looking for a skittles sticker up for alternate Friday nights. £27 per game. Apply direct to the Inn!
Axminster and District Choral Society
Tonight’s the night! ADCS will be rehearsing together in Axminster at the Minster, for the first time since COVID. Marvellous! Handel’s Messiah. Don’t forget to do a lateral Flow Test and bring a mask and locator form.
Something to Cool You Down
We now have vegan chocolate as well as vegan vanilla gelato at the village hall. Only £1.50 per pot! Bring along the right money, and you can pick some up whenever there’s an organised activity in the hall.
Devon Climate Emergency September Newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/aa24a76fc14a/september-newsletter
Free Driving Workshop for Senior Drivers
Devon County Council and Red One share a mutual goal to reduce the number of collisions/deaths on our county’s roads, at present they are focusing on helping senior drivers and have formed the Driving Safer for Longer partnership. Together they are committed to helping people to retain their independent mobility whilst remaining safe on the road and they are currently offering FREE Driving Safer for Longer workshops. Their FREE workshop is informal, interactive, fun and very informative. they offer various modules according to the requirements of the group, topics covered can include:
- Health
- Eyesight
- Highway Code
- Medical conditions
- Advice on aids to driving
- Speed and hazard awareness
- The challenges facing drivers today
For many older people in Devon, a driving licence is an important symbol of independence. Cars make it easier to go shopping, get to appointments, keep in touch with friends and attend social events – without having to rely on others. While some older drivers may be able to continue driving well into their 80s and 90s, it’s important for them to regularly assess their driving and make adjustments if necessary. Driving is one of the most risky activities we are likely to do in our lives, and yet once we pass our driving test many of us have no further training. Driving techniques have and do change over the years.
If we can get at least 10 people interested in this, they’ll come down to the village hall and run a course for us.
A hairy little visitor
Mike Capper has recently had a visit from a very attractive caterpillar. I thought this might be from a brown tail moth, the hairs of which can be quite toxic, but a friend of mine has suggested it might belong to a moth called The Sycamore Acronicta aceris. Such an exciting caterpillar, such a boring moth! Has anyone any other suggestions?
News from Membury September 5th 2021
Beans
We have a big pile of runner beans outside our house (Haccombe). Please help yourself to as many as you’d like. It would be a shame for them to go to waste. We’ve also got plenty of iris plants left, perfect for your pond.
Update on the Village Hall.
Now the hall is in full use again you may notice some changes to the interior. The Trustees used the enforced closure to upgrade the lighting, install dimmable wall lights and completely redecorate the hall. It was then agreed by the Trustees that the committee room should be used as a display area and the art works that were on the walls should now be displayed in rotation in there, along with other displays, as the positioning of the new lights would make it difficult to use the wall space artistically. The three largest pieces have been mounted on the walls around the bay at the rear of the Hall and above the committee room door. Those not on display are safely stored and a selection of these will be displayed in rotation from late November when the current display, which includes the tributes to those who served in WW1 and WW2, will be replaced.
Some works have also been renovated and cleaned to enhance their appearance. None have been disposed of.
We hope you will be able to appreciate the displays now the hall has re-opened.
If you have any questions please contact myself or a Trustee.
UpArt 21
A reminder that the UpArt Pop Up Gallery is back for a second time with a new collection of art, crafts, ceramics, jewellery, photography & sculptures.
The gallery opens on September 11th at The Art Room, The Sidmouth Arms pub, Upottery. Gallery open 11-6pm daily, entrance is free.
Devon Open Studios
Devon Open Studios is the annual flagship event of Devon Artist Network.
For two weeks in September, members of the network – potters, artists, jewellery makers, wood workers, needle workers and creatives of every kind, open their doors and invite people in to discover their work and to chat to the artists themselves about their processes and inspiration. Work will also be on sale and it can be a perfect opportunity to purchase unique artwork direct from the maker.
You’ll find Open Studios in almost every type of location, whether that’s private homes, garden sheds, cafes, galleries and more besides, some on high streets and industrial estates and others with staggering views of coast and countryside. The art and craft you’ll find there will be just as varied and interesting and the artists you’ll meet come with a wide variety of experience and inspiration. Part of the fun of Devon Open Studios is uncovering artwork you’ll fall in love with in unexpected places.
What they all have in common is that you are very welcome!
You’ll spot their yellow signs out and about the county to guide you to our artists’ doors.
Follow this link for more information https://devonopenstudios.co.uk/
Broadband
Anyone considering Starlink as a broadband supplier might like to have a chat with Claire and Adrian at Middlemoor, way out in the meadows behind Sandbanks. Their house is 200m from the nearest bit of tarmac as the white-tailed eagle flies, or 350m by their track. They think it unlikely that Airband will be able to supply them. They’ve had Starlink for three weeks now, and their Starlink service is about 20 times the speed of BT, and much more reliable.
Moviola
The first film of the new season of Moviola offerings is Love Sarah, and is being shown in the village hall on the Tuesday 14th.
A young woman wishes to fulfil her mother’s dream of opening her own bakery in Notting Hill, London. To do this, she enlists the help of an old friend and her grandma.
The bar opens at 7pm with Otter Amber on tap., and the film will be shown at 7:30pm. Don’t forget we now have Baboo Gelato in plenty of different flavours, with a vegan option.
From Devon with Love
Hot on the heels of the film night, the next fish and chip night is September 18th and will feature three local acts to entertain us all. More details will follow shortly, but you might want to save the date and the time. The first act “Revenge of the Earth Gnomes” is particularly suitable for children of all ages, and will start at 5pm, before the food is ready.
Axminster Drama Club
Is looking for an Accompanist/Rehearsal Pianist to help them with their latest production.
Availability in mid-December a must with possible rehearsals on Friday evenings.
Must have own keyboard.
Please get in touch if you are interested in knowing more.
Back by popular Demand …
Angela is restarting her yoga classes in the village hall tomorrow at 09:45
Mark Shepherd is looking forward to welcoming new bell ringers at 7:30pm
News from Membury September 3rd 2021
The Proposed Village Logo
It’s been pointed out that the logo should be a parish logo, not just a village logo, so we need to consider elements of Rock, Furley, Webble Green, Longbridge and the other far-flung corners of Membury Parish.
It’s also been suggested that the castle or hill fort should feature within the logo.
One wag pointed out that a lorry wedged between two hedges would be good, perhaps surrounded by potholes, and someone else offered up the idea of a big brown splatter of mud.
An Apology
Mercury issue 142
The sharp-eyed botanists amongst you will have noticed that the picture in the article about fungi on page 23 is, in fact, one of honey fungus, not colourful waxcap fungi, as labelled. The wax-cap fungi are still floating somewhere in the ether! Apologies to writer Helen Neill.
Not an Apology!
We are requesting STRONGLY that the boxes containing bags of copies for distribution teams are NOT opened by anyone else! Not for the first time, our distribution numbers have been thrown out by someone helping themselves, in spite of the note on the top. If you do not get your Mercury delivered, or require extra, please either give us a call (881291) or take one from the leaflet distribution box attached to the door of the newspaper cupboard. PLEASE leave the bags alone!
The Editorial team
Free Webinars to Support Older Drivers
The Older Drivers Forum are supporting Project Edwards week of action, themed ‘Fit for the Road’ between the 13th to 17th September 2021.
The Forum will be running a series of six free webinars during the week. Each webinar is on a different subject and designed to help and support the mature motorist to carry on driving safely for longer.
Project EDWARD stands for ‘Every Day Without A Road Death’ and is an annual UK-wide road safety campaign backed by government, the emergency services, highways agencies, road safety organisations and British businesses.
The webinars are FREE and have expert speakers as well as participants being able to ask questions. People will need to register their place for each webinar and this can be done by visiting https://olderdriversforum.com/webinars/ .
East Devon District Council Coronavirus Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2ee7014
Devon County Council Update
With more detail on our local heightened response level and back to school information.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2ef7f43
St John Baptist
There is a communion service on Sunday at 11.00 a.m. in Membury Church
News from Membury September 2nd 2021
Oak Apple Café
The Oak Apple Café is offering the following delights tomorrow afternoon from 1:30pm:
- Cheese and Poppy Seed Straws
- Sausage Rolls
- Mushroom and Bacon Vol-au-Vents
- Bobbie’s Orange and Gooseberry Traybake
- Helen’s Chocolate Brownies
Your hosts for the day will be Jenny, Mike and Helen.
There will also be an opportunity to buy raffle tickets for ARC -so BRING SOME CASH if you want one (£1) or a whole book full (£5)
If anyone has excess produce from their garden, please bring it along and we can redistribute it to others that might want it.
A Village Logo
Both John Hodge and I were plagiarising documents from other websites today and both his and mine had space for a village logo at the top of the page, so we were thinking that maybe we ought to get one for Membury.
What elements would you like to see in a Membury logo? The church, perhaps. The bell tower on the school or the war memorial maybe. What about an oak leaf, or an apple?
If you have any ideas, please let me know.
If you have any graphic design skills, and fancy designing the logo that would be fantastic!
Sea Eagles
Some of you may remember the excitement that the sea eagle spotted over Membury generated last year. A dozen more have been released on the Isle of Wight, and I’m sure we can rely on Phantom to spread the word to his buddies about how lovely this corner of Devon is. Keep a look out for one of these white-tailed eagles, and let me know if you spot one
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-58419639
We are now in an “Enhanced Response Area”
Devon, Torbay, Plymouth, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have all been designated an ‘enhanced response area’ by the government today.
It’s because coronavirus case rates in the far South West are so high, so the government is prioritising the area for additional support to drive down case numbers.
It doesn’t mean another local lockdown, but it does mean that local authorities will have more flexibility to introduce additional public health measures if considered necessary, so we welcome this decision.
Here in Devon, most coronavirus cases are among late teens and younger adults. Socialising is seen as the main driver for the rise in case numbers. It’s not unexpected, given the removal of restrictions and the opening up of opportunities to mix. Our popularity as a major visitor destination also makes us busy with crowds, where coronavirus quickly spreads.
We already work with our neighbouring authorities, Public Health England and NHS Devon, but the enhanced response area designation means that we’re now also working with the government to see what else can be done to reduce Devon’s coronavirus case rate.
We need you to work with us too. Please do your bit by:
- limiting your social contacts to stop the virus spreading
- meeting others outside, because that’s safer than meeting inside
- continuing to wear face coverings when indoors in public places
- washing your hands properly and regularly
- testing yourself regularly with rapid lateral flow device tests
- having the COVID-19 vaccine when offered
- self-isolating and arranging a PCR test if you show any symptoms of coronavirus or you are told to by NHS Test and Trace
Membury School
The children are returning to Membury School on Monday after the long summer break. I’m sure we all wish them well, and there’ll be a big welcome for Heidi Wickens too – the new senior teacher. She has high hopes of getting more involved with the village, and is looking forward to displaying the work of the children at the Oak Apple Café every term.
News from Membury September 1st 2021
Anne Sheppard
The funeral of Anne Sheppard takes place on September 21st at 10:45 at Whimple (East Devon) Crematorium, London Road, Strete Ralegh, Exeter EX5 2PT.
The family has requested no flowers, but donations in lieu to Hospicecare Devon. A link will be on the order of service.
It’s that time of year
A wistful Alasdair has captured this image down at Cott Cross. We wish them well on their journey, and look forward to their return next spring.
Axe Vale Wildlife Day
Sunday 5 September 10am to 3pm at Seaton Wetlands
A free festival day of wetland wildlife fun with the Axe Vale and District Conservation Society and Wild East Devon. Explore the nature reserve and learn about the wildlife of the wider Axe Vale. Moth identification, trails, activities including Guided Tours, Bird ID, Pond Dipping, refreshments and much more!
Bats about bats
Moonlit bat detecting walks.
To book click any of these events please email savingspecialspecies@gmail.com
Friday 10 September, 7.00pm – 9.00pm Holyford Woods, Colyford
Adrian Bayley, local bat expert leads a walk in one of East Devon’s oldest woods, perfect habitat for bats. Adrian also plans to show the harp nets, which capture bats safely and carefully for identification. Will we pick up the Grey Long Eared Bat – known as the whispering bat for its quiet echo location
Friday 17 September, 6.45pm – 8.45pm National Trust Stonebarrow, Charmouth
Spy on these mysterious flying mammals of the night on a magical bat detecting walk, in search of the rare Grey Long Eared Bat and some of the other 18 UK bat species, with local bat enthusiasts Mary Anne Crafter and Ruth Worsley. Learn how to use bat detectors to help us identify tonight’s bats on the wing. The Golden Cap estate holds an incredible 15 out of the 17 species of UK bat including the very rare Grey Long-eared bat.
Saturday 18 September, 6.45pm – 8.45pm Hogchester Meadows, Charmouth
Spy on these mysterious flying mammals of the night on a magical bat detecting walk, in search of the rare Grey Long Eared Bat, with local bat enthusiasts Mary Anne Crafter and Ruth Worsley. Learn how to use bat detectors to help us identify tonight’s bats on the wing. A chance to explore these glorious meadows as part of Hogchester Farms ambitious rewilding project.
Storm Names
The UK public has chosen to recognise friends, families and pets in the latest storm names which have been announced today.
The Met Office, along with partners Met Éireann and KNMI, have announced the storm names for use in the 2021/22 season, which runs from September 2021 through to the end of August 2022. As in previous years, the names chosen have been selected by the three national meteorological organisations, but this year the UK public had its say on the names the Met Office put forward for consideration.
Arts and Crafts
Arts and Crafts is starting again on Sept 9th in the hall at 2pm. Normally people bring their own projects to work on while they chat but this time Janice is going to demonstrate some paper flower making. New members welcome.
A Humble Apology
In the email I sent out yesterday I gave the wrong email address for Sean and Kerstin Langdon at Goodmans, Furley – custodians of Furley Self Catering Cottages. The correct email address is info@furleycottages.com
Connecting Devon and Somerset
I received an email today from CDS promoting an expansion of the mobile boost programme. This programme aims to upgrade indoor 4G coverage in “not-spot” areas. The initiative, which is being funded through the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership’s (HotSWLEP) Growth Deal, aims to improve the quality of mobile phone calls and connectivity. It’s targeting small businesses and households in rural communities who currently have inadequate coverage, or have access to only one provider and are currently struggling with connectivity.
The email invited me to apply for a voucher, worth up to £1200, towards the cost of a mobile signal booster.
I filled in the application form, and instantly received my voucher, but a call to one of the nominated providers left me slightly cross. It’s a booster that they are offering, which boosts a weak signal, but doesn’t help with a complete absence of signal – which applies to a good deal of the village. Apparently, the boosters they’ve been installing are very unreliable anyway, and they were keen to steer me on to a 4G router. This is only any good for Broadband, and since my Broadband here is very good and there’s no 4G signal, it would be of no use at all!
Had they been able to help, they would have charged me £250 for the installation. They also offered to connect me to Starlink, an opportunity to line Elon Musk’s pockets with £89 per month plus (I believe) a £500 installation fee.
If you think this offer might suit you, you can read more about it here https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2ef5788.
My advice would be to hold fire on this until Airband has made contact with you.
Membury Mercury Advertisers August 2021
All the people who pay for advertisements in the Mercury get a copy of their ad sent out every month by email to over 210 subscribers, as well as over 130 members of our Facebook group, and the ads are also placed on our website.
Please support these businesses – without them, there might not be a Membury Mercury!
If you know anyone who might wish to advertise with us please ask them to get in touch. Only one issue remain this year, so all rates are now halved.
News from Membury August 30th 2021
30 Days Hath September …
But April only has 29 according to the calendars sold by Mike from the Post Office at the café the week before last. One of their American customers went to put a note on April 30th 2022 (her birthday apparently) to discover that for that month the final day was missing! The printers have reprinted the whole thing, and Mike will have replacements with him next Friday at the café, so any of the people who bought one from him previously can swap it for a more complete version. Mike will also have more cards with him – these proved very popular when he last brought them.
Yoga Restarts!
ARC raffle tickets
We’re still selling ARC raffle tickets (£1 or £5 per book) from the hall when the café is operating, or when there are Merrymaker events running. Please don’t forget to bring some cash if you want to buy some. The top prize is £1000.
Bellringing Restarts!
We are fortunate to have two bells in the church tower that are classified as historically significant due to their age, being cast c15th.
In 2009 our church bells were given a full restoration at significant cost, and thanks to the generosity of the people of Membury as they raised over half of the cost.
It would be brilliant for us to build a band of ringers to keep our wonderful bells ringing for years to come, if you are interested it would be lovely to see you next Monday.
There’s a Fungi Down at Toehill
Iain has sent pictures of something growing under their shed. I think it’s a Boletus of some sort, but I’m not sure which one … could be delicious, could be poisonous!
Tim O’Donnell – Update from Sara Cranfield
Tim remains in hospital in London. Having had a procedure on Monday 23rd, he was discharged home to his daughter’s on Wednesday. However, he had to be re-admitted in the early hours of Thursday morning, and then transferred to Harefield Hospital, where he had another procedure to fit a pacemaker. Tim will remain there for another 4-5 days, before being discharged. He & his family are reviewing a ‘Care Package’ for him to be able to come back to Membury, but this may take some time. His daughter tells me he was quite uncomfortable during & after the procedure, but was able to manage ‘tea & chips’ following it!!
If anyone wants to drop him a card or letter, please pop it through his door at 2 Springfield or mine at No 3, and I will forward it on. He’ll be 96 next week, so all cards will be much enjoyed by him. I’m sure we all wish him a speedy return to better health, and look forward to his coming back home here.
Cream Teas at Goren
Goren Farm in Stockland is making amazing cream teas, and it’s a beautiful oasis if you want to go somewhere really peaceful with the family, away from the crowds. £5 gets you a plain scone, a fruit scone and lashings of jam and cream, along with a pot of something hot. Alison makes the fantastic scones – her secret is to use lemonade in the recipe, even for the savoury scones with cheese and bacon. They also do a range of sandwiches and have bottles of cider, vinegar, elderflower and perry for sale.
Julian is preparing for apple pressing which starts in a week or so. If you can get together with neighbours and come up with 100Kg of apples he’ll scrat them, press them, pasteurise the juice and bottle it. They’ve also just cut their meadows, so green hay and a selection of wildflower seeds including yellow rattle is also available. If you are looking to speed up rewilding of a bit of meadow, this is the best place to go.
www.goren.co.uk EX14 9EN 01404 881335
Donn’s 1765 Map of Devon
Ian Hennessey has posted on Facebook a link to this old map of Devon.
Back then, Stockland and Dalwood were situated in a little detached part of Dorset.
News from Membury August 27th 2021
Trees
National Tree Week takes place at the end of November, and there are plenty of schemes and initiatives now running that encourage landowners and communities within Devon to plant native broadleaved trees in the forthcoming planting season. Doing so will help replace the vast number of ash trees that are now dying through ash dieback, as well as supporting wildlife, enhancing our landscapes for people to enjoy, and helping to reduce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Devon County Council Jubilee Tree Packs for landowners
Devon County Council is offering 70 packs of free trees to landowners across Devon, to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. Trees planted in the forthcoming planting season (November 2021 to end of March 2022) will contribute to the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative. Devon County Council is able to offer free tree packs thanks to a generous grant from the Woodland Trust through its Emergency Tree Fund.
Each free tree pack will contain 45 trees comprising three types of native broadleaved tree commonly found throughout Devon.
Plant a Tree for the Platinum Jubilee
To celebrate the Queen’s 70 years of Service, Her Majesty invites people across the UK to “Plant a Tree for the Platinum Jubilee”. This tree planting initiative focuses on planting sustainably in honour of The Queen’s leadership of the Nation; the intent is to leave a legacy that will greatly benefit future generations.
Are you eligible?
If you have a field corner to spare or other area where you would like to establish a small copse, linear woodland or extend an existing woodland, you can apply for a free tree pack. In previous years free packs of 45 saplings containing oak, birch and rowan trees have been supplied to eligible landowners. To give trees enough space to develop a good crown and grow to maturity, we advise planting at 3m random spacings, which requires an area of approximately 400m sq. (e.g. 20m x 20m) for 45 trees.
The following conditions apply:
- The trees must be planted in Devon
- The tree planting location (or locations) must be suitable in terms of size and location in the landscape.
- The planting must be carried out by the end of March 2022.
- A person (landowner or their appointee) must be named as responsible for planting and maintaining the trees according to the instructions, so that after 5 years the trees are well established and growing healthily.
- We require a photograph of the planted trees as evidence of completion. If not provided to us by the end of May 2022, we may wish to access the planting site on an accompanied visit to check and record (through a photograph) that the planting has been carried out. Arrangements for such a visit will be agreed in advance with the landowner.
Applications need to be in by September 27th, so tree packs can be delivered to be planted in National Tree Week (27th November – 5th December)
If you are interested in the scheme, please do not delay applying. In previous years, the scheme has been extremely popular and highly oversubscribed.
For more information, follow this link. https://www.devonashdieback.org.uk/take-action/free-tree-schemes/
Devon County Council Update
Devon has been designated an “enhanced response area” as COVID case rates are near double the national average. Read about what this means here:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDEVONCC/bulletins/2ee6f51
Diversion Signs
Have you spotted any redundant “diversion” signs around the place left by the council after they’ve completed roadworks? David Neill has been collecting them and stashing them in the car park, prior to getting them picked up by the Highways Team. If you see one, can you either take it to the car park and dump it, or let me know and I’ll arrange for it to be picked up.
Village Hall Carpark Bins
This is just a reminder that the Parish Council agreed to remove the bins in the car park on a trial basis, and a decision on whether they will be replaced will be made at the next Parish Council meeting on September 28th. If you want your point of view represented, please write to the clerk to the council clerk@membury.eastdevon.gov.uk
September is nearly upon us …
Look out for Yoga, Bowls, Like Minds and Bell Ringing restarting soon. If your club is ready to get going, send me a paragraph of information, and I’ll include it in the next news update.
Sad News
Anne Sheppard died peacefully this evening, August 26th at home at 7pm. I am sure we all share Bill’s sadness at her loss. She will be much missed in the village.
News from Membury August 25th 2021
Free Beer!
No, it’s not a scam. We have a considerable amount of Otter Amber left over after the Fish and Chips evening on Saturday, and it won’t last long. We just don’t want it to be wasted, so if you’d like to bring along a receptacle to the hall and make a donation you can help yourself. Give Jill a ring beforehand (881641) or just knock on her door (Folletts) and she’ll be delighted to let you into the hall.
Two messages from Sara Cranfield
CHARITY DONATIONS
I have just started volunteering one afternoon a week at the British Heart Foundation (BHF) shop in Chard. HUGE fun, and you meet such lovely people who not only volunteer there, but those who come in to support the charity, some of whom have stories that are, literally, heart breaking. Like most charities, they depend on donations, gift-aided whenever possible, to help fund research and development into heart disease, so helping us to live a longer, healthier life. However, the one donation they don’t need is BOOKS!! Too many have been handed in since the end of the first lockdown, and every week boxes of books are being sent to the great book heaven, never to be read again. Apparently, it’s the same for all charity shops. So, if you were thinking of sending any books to support your favourite charity, please save them in the loft for a little longer or see if you can sell them on line & then donate any monies made. You could also go into your favourite shop, choose a dozen or so books, to make space for more to be sold. I’ve seen some interesting cookery, wildlife, children’s and great classics, which could be given as Christmas presents.
TIM O’DONNELL
As some of you will know, Tim has been in the RD&E for nearly a month before being transferred at the weekend for heart surgery. I’m pleased to report, that this has gone well and that Tim is due to be discharged home to the care of his daughter in London to recuperate before coming back to Membury.
Such great news. What a fantastic Health Service we have, whereby a 96-year-old can have a life improving procedure. Another example of the benefits of supporting a charity life the BHF.
Oak Apple Café
Your hosts this week will be Barry and Pauline Marshall, Allan Gyngell and me.
On the menu will be sausage rolls, vegetable whirls, Date and walnut loaf, lemon drizzle cake and chocolate raisin cookies. Mike at the post office will have cards and calendars again, and you can see how well the team cleared the outside space last weekend.
You’ll be pleased to hear that the café is the recipient of a generous grant from Devon County Council – so if you are a regular, what would you like to see improved?, and if you haven’t been for a while, what can we do to encourage you back?
Flies and wasps
Sue and Richard are clearly very unlucky. Various villagers and other correspondents have reported tons of flying insects including horse flies (allegedly the size of wrens), bees, butterflies, moths, dragonflies, damselflies, ants and midges. I personally had a very close encounter with a wasp a couple of days ago which stung me on my earlobe. Very painful.
Airbnb
Do you live near a property let out through Airbnb?
Airbnb has launched a Neighbour Support Line, offering residents who live near an Airbnb property the opportunity to talk to someone directly at Airbnb if they have urgent concerns, such as parties, noise disturbance or safety concerns. Neighbours can visit https://www.airbnb.co.uk/neighbours to request a call from a specialised support agent, who will aim to give them a call back in 10 minutes or less.
In partnership with the charity Crimestoppers, Airbnb have produced a guide for hosts, including advice on how to stay safe while hosting, signs of potentially suspicious activity from guests, information on how to stay safe online and how to report any suspicious activity to Crimestoppers, the police, and to Airbnb.
News from Membury August 23rd 2021
Clearing the new social space
It’s amazing what a quartet can do with 2-3hours practice. I’d like to thank Eileen, Sara and Mike for making up the quartet to help clear the space beside the Hall on Saturday morning. Eileen and Sara on the top notes with Mike and myself on the baser regions and transport; and to David for his solo performance on Saturday afternoon working on the middle parts and clearing all the bits we didn’t get to!
It isn’t finished yet though, still some big roots to be removed without damaging the concrete surface and general tidying up ready for the late Autumn transformation into a space for all villagers and visitors to enjoy. Watch this space… literally!
Richard
100 Club Winners
The winners for August are as follows:
Judy and Ron Martin £25
Jan and Daniel Lazar £10 (woohoo!)
Sandra and Mike Capper £5
Where are all the insects?
Sue and Richard Pittendrigh live at Ashcroft, near Beckford Bridge, on the Westwater Road with horses, ponies, ducks, chickens, guineafowl and probably lots of other beasts. Sue writes:
“Has anybody seen any wasps? Or in fact many other insects? We have 8 acres of organic wild flower meadows and there are very few about and we have plenty of flowers Just interested to know if others feel the same this year?”
Job Vacancy
Shelley Cruze from Passlands has a gardening and landscaping company, Goodlife Gardeners and Landscapers, and as seems to be a national problem, they are struggling to recruit staff.
They are looking for experienced gardeners, full or part time (but full days only), who have a clean driving licence. Anyone interested can email her at goodlife@goodlifegardeners.co.uk
Cakes
Sarah from New House Farm in the village has cakes and other goodies at the bottom of their drive, next to Springfield, if anyone gets a bit peckish.
The Pings Arms
Sorry, mistype – I should have said the Kings Arms – has now reopened after their brief closure due to Covid. Make your booking by ringing them on 01404 881686
News from Membury August 20th 2021
Severe Weather Warning
There is a yellow warning of thunderstorms in place for Saturday from noon to 22:00. The boundary of the affected area runs between Axminster and Chard, so we may escape completely, but you may want to take precautions anyway. It’s good practise. At this time of year when many people are away, please be prepared to look after your neighbour’s property if you know they are absent.
Kings Arms **CLOSED **
Ben has asked us to let you know that unfortunately the Kings Arms will be closed from now until Tuesday next week (tbc), due to a member of the team testing positive for Covid. He’s understandably gutted and the whole team sends their apologies to anyone inconvenienced by the closure.
Please keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates about reopening, or you can call on 01404 881686.
Ben & the team, Kings Arms, Stockland
01404 881686
https://kingsarms.pub
https://www.facebook.com/groups/stockland
Axminster Medical Practice
COVID VACCINE UPDATE
We are running a clinic at Seaton Hospital on 6th September for 16-17 year olds wishing to be vaccinated. For all those eligible with mobile phone numbers on their record we have sent a link that you can use to book directly. Please contact reception on 01297 32126 if you have not received a text and still wish to book.
Alternatively Greendale mass vaccination centre are operating a walk-in vaccine service from 9am-7pm every day.
Membury Church
I published a request for images of the church a few days ago. The closing date for entries is Sunday 22nd, and I’m pleased to say that the winning entry will be sent a free copy of the book “Circular Walks in East Devon, in which it will be featured, and they will be credited for the shot.
East Devon District Council Update
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKEDDC/bulletins/2ecefa7
News from Membury August 19th 2021
Fish and Chips
I inadvertently gave the wrong phone number for Jill in the email I sent yesterday. It is of course 01404 881641
The Post Office Tomorrow
One of our venerable residents has looked at Oliver Hellowell’s website and been very impressed with his photography. Aside from the calendars Mike will be bringing some of his greeting’s cards with him tomorrow – come along and browse, and don’t forget you can even pick up stamps at the same time!
The Library Van
Emma will be driving a larger van than usual tomorrow, so will park up outside Gowan Brae, up by where the Post Office used to be between 14:00 and 14:45, instead of in the car park by the Village Hall. If you’re not already a member, consider popping along and joining the library. It operates on the principle of use it or lose it.
Down to Earth
The gardening group has filled the planters on the railing outside the village hall with herbs and white lavender plants. When they’ve had an opportunity to establish themselves, please feel free to help yourself!
In addition, if anyone has a pond and would like some iris plants, there is a large crate full outside Haccombe.
History Society
Don’t forget that the History Society is leading a trip to Bridport on Monday. There’s still space if anyone wants to go – just ring Jenny Beaman on 01404 881828 to book your place.
Free Writing Course
Writing Twisted Tales with ‘Owdyado Theatre
Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th August (10-4pm)
‘Owdyado Theatre are running a two-day Zoom course for people interested in developing their writing for the stage.
‘Owdyado Theatre love compelling stories, often dark in tone, that draw the audience in and then thrill them with an unexpected plot twist! They are big fans of The Twilight Zone and Inside No.9, both of which have influenced their most recent stage work. For more information on the company please visit owdyado.co.uk
In this workshop, delivered by co Artistic Director Charlotte Bister, you will learn about structures and techniques for writing exciting short dramas. You will also get tips for generating ideas, creating character and exercises to get your words flowing. Together you will work towards producing your own 5-minute piece and, for anyone able to make the additional feedback session, you will have the chance to hear your work-in-progress read by professional actors. The most developed piece will be performed at Villages in Action’s From Devon With Love scratch festival in September.
An additional outcome of this course is a £500 commission and mentoring package, available to one writer, to create a short original play for ‘Owdyado Theatre.
This FREE workshop is open to Devon-based emerging writers aged 18 and over. It will take place over two days via zoom, 10-4pm on both Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th August. Please only apply if you are available on both days.
To apply, email ‘Owdyado Theatre a short extract (five pages max) of something creative you have written (ideally a piece of drama). Title your email DEVON WORKSHOPS and attach a cover letter explaining why you would like to do this course.
Email address: submissions@owdyado.co.uk
News from Chapplecroft Farm
Hello, this is a picture of our new cat called ‘Poppy’. Poppy comes from Battersea Cat & Dog Shelter as a cat that doesn’t like people. We have barns and mice and rats so we thought she could come and live here to help with the above and keep herself to herself.
We’ve only had her a fortnight but in that time she’s already gone off half a mile and lived in a neighbour’s garage. We’ll have to let her out again soon and we hope she doesn’t wander but if she does could you ring us and we’ll come and pick her up straight away.
Please note she really really doesn’t like people and she’ll hiss and probably scratch.
Thank you!
Kevin (07724079636) and Sarah (07446234705) Chapplecroft Farm
News From East Membury Farm
A black and white cat which has been around East Membury for the last few weeks. Mike and Sandra would appreciate it if the owner could come and collect it – it has a habit of sneaking in and eating their cats’ food. Any takers?
And no, it’s definitely not Poppy!
Has Anyone Lost a Phone?
Found in Membury parish. Cubot King Kong Mini smartphone. Let me know if you are, or know, the owner.
News from Membury August 18th 2021
Fish and Chips
Don’t forget that the fish and chip van will be calling on Saturday at 6pm in the car park, and the bar will be operating at the village hall for those that wish to sit down and eat there – or just fancy a drink. Baboo Gelato is now available as well. Choose from blackcurrant sorbet, mint choc chip, salted caramel, double chocolate, strawberry, coffee, maple and walnut, vanilla and even vegan vanilla.
Please let Jill know if you’d like to order some food – 01404 881641, 07710849984 or jill-folletts@outlook.com.
Oak Apple Café
The Oak Apple Café will be open again on Friday from 1:30pm Bobbie Clarke, Terry Pitt and Ceri and Martyn Dash are looking forward to welcoming you. On the menu we have sausage rolls, savoury muffins (vegetarian), banana chocolate and pecan loaf (gluten free), date and walnut cake, Victoria sponge and oat biscuits. You can also take the opportunity to purchase ARC raffle tickets ata pound each – with a top prize of £1000 to be won.
Reminder – Help wanted
The prospective new Social Area beside the hall is being cleared of all ivy and planting/undergrowth this Saturday 21st August from 10.00 in preparation for work to begin on the resurfacing. Any help would be very welcome: just bring some gardening gloves and some energy! Secateurs may also be useful.
Hermes Strikes Again!
Hermes have done it yet again! They have admitted that they have lost another parcel belonging to Sue Pittendrigh at Ashcroft and this time it is an 8foot long blind! If anyone has it can they kindly ring her on 07900683463. The last one was found at Three Ashes a long way away. They are totally uncontactable, if anyone has a number for them could they let her know? Their unique postcode is EX13 7JE
Devon’s Most Visible Beaver Family Grows Again
The beaver family near Otterton has been delighting nature-lovers once more this summer. As in previous years, the ‘pink tag’ female has been very visible – and not at all camera-shy. The more reticent adult male has been seen more infrequently. But this has been another successful breeding year with at lea