Issue No 98 30th September 2015

Sunday 11th October at 7pm in Kingsdon Village Hall.

Tickets £4 for Adults and £2.50 for children available from Ann Leahy Tel: 840502

and Jackie Ellis Tel: 840344.

Please come and enjoy a delicious Harvest Supper

Bring your own knife, fork, spoon & glass

Cider served with your meal Bring your own wine etc. if you wish!

The next Kingsdon Parish Council monthly meeting will be held on Thursday 8th October at 7.30pm

A Planning meeting for Old Post Office and 2 cottages will be at 7pm Thursday 1st October in Kingsdon Village Hall. All are welcome

All Saints Church

Priest in Charge: Revd Alan Symonds Tel/Fax 01458 272029 (For arrangement of Baptisms, Weddings and other occasional services) Curate: Chr is Hopkins Tel: 01458 272029 Church Warden: Mrs Bel Allan Tel. 01935 840878 Parochial Church Council: Secretary Nicholas J . Allan Tel 01935 840878 Treasurer Alan Carnall Tel 01935 840692 Tower Captain: Jackie Ellis Tel 01935 840344

Church Services for October

Sunday 4th October 11 a.m. Holy Communion Revd. Alan Symonds

Sunday 11th October 11 a.m. Harvest Festival - All Ages Service Revd. Chris Hopkins

Sunday 18th October 11 a.m. Holy Communion Revd. Adrian Hopwood Sunday 18th October 6 p.m. Evensong Jenny Gallop

Sunday 25th October 9.30 a.m. Holy Communion Revd. Adrian Hopwood

Kingsdon Village Hall

For all information (except bookings) contact: - David Thomson, Park Farmhouse, Lower Rd. Kingsdon TA11 7LL Tel:01935 841453

For bookings contact Marilyn Elliott, 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon, TA11 7LW Tel 01935 841444 Email marilyn.elliott@hotmail.co.uk

Bookings for October 2015 Short Mat Bowls Mondays 7.30pm - 9pm, Tuesdays 10am - 12noon Table Tennis Club Tuesdays at 7.30pm (not 13th) Yeovil Dist. Canine Soc. Wednesdays 6.30pm Art Club Thursdays 10am - 12 (Term time) Parish Council Thur sday 8th 7.30pm Harvest Supper Sunday 11th 7pm Ladies Club Tuesday 13th 7pm Practical Study Group Wednesday 28th 9.30am - 2.30pm Seniors Club Wednesday 28th 3pm

Church Rotas for October Brass: Sarah Steele-Perkins Flowers: Sally Clapperton & Babs Conway

Kingsdon Table Tennis Club

The Table Tennis Club play in the Village Hall on Tuesday evenings (apart from the 2nd Tuesday in the month) between 7.30pm and 9.30pm. If you are interested then please contact Shirley or Martin Singleton on 841162 or just come along.

Kingsdon Seniors Club The Seniors Club meet on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 3pm in the Village Hall. New members are always welcome. For infor-mation contact Club Secretary Marilyn Elliott, 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon. Tel 01935 841444 email: marilyn.elliott@hotmail.co.uk

Kingsdon Ladies Club The Ladies Club meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in the Village Hall. New members and visitors are always welcome. For information contact Club President Lynne Davies, Holly House, Frog Lane, Kingsdon. TA11 7LL Tel 01935 840660 or Club Secretary Jackie Ellis, Hill House, Rocky Hill, Kingsdon. TA11 7LB Tel 01935 840344

Kingsdon Boule & Croquet Club The club meets every Wednesday afternoon in members’ gardens between 2 and 4 pm, weather permitting.

For more details contact Nina Carlisle on : 01935 840933 or email: ninacarlisle@talktalk.net

Kingsdon Cricket Club

Chairman : Marilyn Elliott 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon, Somerton, TA11 7LW Tel 01935 841444 07990673935 Secretary: Ian Birrell Watersmeet, Huish Episcopi, Langport. TA10 9HE Tel 01458 259231 07817959709 Trustees: B. Car lisle, I. Bir rell, J . Schofield Captain / Treasurer: J . Schofield Vice-Captain: P. Waters

Match Results 2nd August (Lost) Away to Crewkerne Kingsdon 153 - 8 (S. Rumbles 34 n.o. M. Jones 25) Crewkerne 157 - 7 (F. Medley 56 n.o. S. Rowswell 44)

9th August (Won) Home to Martock (35 overs) 31st August (Lost) Home (25 overs) Kingsdon 147 - 5 (S. Dromgoole 29, J. Smith 27, Kingsdon 55 (M. Jones 20) I. Birrell 25 n.o. K. Morgan 22 n.o.) Cowboys 57 - 3 (S. Dromgoole 31 rtd hurt) Martock 104 (P. Deighton 36, B. Carlisle 5 - 13)

The Kingsdon Chronicle The Kingsdon Chronicle is an independent journal published monthly and is financed by voluntary donation. Cheques payable to ‘The Kingsdon Chronicle’ The Kingsdon Chronicle welcomes correspondence from its readers. Name and address must be supplied but may be withheld from publication on request.. The Kingsdon Chronicle reserves the right to edit items for publication. Contributed letters and articles printed in The Kingsdon Chronicle do not necessarily reflect the views of The Kingsdon Chronicle production team. Editor: Wallace Elliott, 4 Manor Close, Kingsdon. TA11 7LW Tel 01935 841444, Mobile 07990673935, Email: wallyelliott@hotmail.com

Page 2

Congratulations to Kingsdon’s Triathlete Dr. Sarah Freeman

Sarah was one of 178 Ladies who successfully took part in the Langport Ladies novice triathlon on Saturday 19th September. The event started with a 200m swim in Huish pool, then a sprint to the bikes for a 15k ride along the A372 through Long Sut-ton then into Somerton and returning past the Halfway House at Pitney and back to Huish Academy where a 3k run awaited them.

Sarah is now looking forward to next years event when she aims to compete in the full Triathlon which consists of a 400m swim, 22.5k bike ride and a 5k run. Sarah sprints to the start of the 15 Km Bike ride looking good with 3 Km to go

Page 3

Kingsdon Seniors Club

Richard South welcomed 25 members to the first meeting of the new season. Richard gave a resume of the last season with a brief outline of the clubs accounts. Details were given of the proposed outing to Strode Theatre for the Christmas Panto-mime, Peter Pan on 2nd January. Those wishing to attend to notify Brian Paine by end of October.

Brian then introduced the Guest Speaker, Kingsdon’s own Bee-keeper, Ian Dibben. Ian gave an informative and humorous talk on the science of Bee-keeping. He showed how a hive is constructed, with information on the continuous fight against the varroa mite, a parasitic mite of Honeybees, which has become their most serious pest. He outlined the need for very high quality Queen bees and the part they played in a successful hive. Having imported an Italian Queen bee in a small plas-tic container no bigger than a match box, and then introduced it to a hive, it appeared extremely industrious but at the end only half the amount of honey was produced compared with an English Queen bee. Ian has now set up a Queen bee rearing system. The vote of thanks was given by Richard, teas were then served by Gill Paine and Mary Whitehead.

The next meeting will be on 28th October when we will have as the guest speaker, Robin Miller whose talk is entitle “ Bat-tle of Britain”. Robin has already raised £11,000 for local and national charities and delivered 221 presentations to 121 dif-ferent organisations in Southwest England.

Please note the Seniors Club is open for everyone regardless of age; you just need experience of life, a sense of humour and be young at heart.

“Free to collect” An adjustable free standing basketball hoop and back board. Water filled base with wheels for ease of movement.

It is on the driveway at Ridge House on Frog Lane. Come and help yourself!!!!"

Page 4

Page 5

MINUTES OF THE KINGSDON MONTHLY MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 10th SEPTEMBER 2015 IN THE VILLAGE HALL AT 7.30pm

Parishioner comment time: D.Beswick reminded Parishioners of how comment time works and also encouraged people to raise issues relevant to the whole village. Personal issues to be raised individually with councillors beforehand. A parishioner commented that drains are being blocked by leaves. P.Waters said he has cleaned some and he will remind highways, who he believes do an autumn clear out. Another parishioner mentioned a tree on Henley Road, which when mature would impair traffic sight lines. P.Waters agreed to arrange for the tree to be moved to a preferable location.

Present: Mr David Beswick (Chairman); Mr Br ian Paine (vice-chairman); Mr Wally Elliott, Mr Ian Dibbon, Mr Guy Os-borne, Mr.P. Waters, Mrs E. Owen (Parish Councillors); Mrs. K Hatt (Parish Clerk) and Mrs L Moore (RFO) plus 9 parish-ioners.

1.Apologies: Mr . D. Ruddle (County Councillor) and Mr David Norr is (distr ict councilor).

2. Declarations of Interest: As already declared, no changes.

3. Minutes: The minutes having been previously circulated were approved and signed, proposed by W. Elliot, and seconded by G. Osborne, all in favour.

4. Matters arising not covered by agenda None

5. Chairman’s Report A huge thank-you to W.Elliott, G.Osborne and I.Dibben for the bank holiday weekend activities. Having a working team seemed to go really well.

6. Correspondence Clerk has received the playground risk assessment which has now been passed to I.Dibben. Letter from SSDC on Consultation on Community Involvement circulated to Councillors. E-mail from Network Director, The Rural Services Network circulated to Councillors.

7. Finance 7.1 Amendment to hall hire changed from £56.10 to £58.86. L.Moore asked for any questions. B.Paine proposed that the children’s account money is paid into the main account, seconded by I.Dibben, all in favour. 7.2 Cheques to be signed out Clerk Playground inspection Village hall hire B.Paine proposed these cheques are signed, seconded by E.Owen, all in favour. 7.3 The budget was discussed, looking at areas where there was over and under spending. W. Elliott explained that the Kingsdon Chronicle had received an annual contribution of £100 in the past from the Parish Council. The Chairman said that he believed there should be a significant contribution towards it. W.Elliott suggested a contribution of £100 would be sufficient at the present time. He has not received any payment so far this financial year. B. Paine proposed £100 is paid to the Kingsdon Chronicle, seconded by G. Osborne, all in favour. The precept was briefly mentioned which will be discussed in detail at the appropriate time. Playground equipment inspection – there was no allowances for this; a provision for £100 should be made for this. It was asked how much spare money are we likely to have by the end of the year. It depends on the school field but there could be an overspend of a couple of thousand. £3059 can only be used for loan repayment. It will only come into effect if we use the loan. L. Moore needs to look at the paperwork involved. Also have £1500 for maintenance of field- cutting grass, hedges. There was more needed for legal fees - £2500 was pro-posed by B. Paine , seconded by P. Waters, all in favour. Church yard maintenance can be looked at under the precept. E. Owen – do we need to put in the budget any capital for school field instead of drawing the full loan? B.Paine suggested that this did not need to be considered until there had been an Exchange of Contracts. It was also suggested that we could use £7500 from savings; but very careful thought needs to be given to what projects need doing around the village. The savings/reserve we keep should be about the same as our annual turn-over. E. Owen withdrew from the debate for discussion about community shop. D. Beswick suggested the Parish Council should give a donation to the shop. There is an immediate need for funding support for the shop to facilitate its further development. B. Paine suggested £5000

from savings as the shop is a vital asset and community hub for the village community. I.Dibben asked if we could have a break down as to what the shop would need the money for. P.Leahy said there is a meeting about the shop on the 25th September and invited the Parish Councillors to attend to see what they want to do and cost. Several Councillors commented that the loan terms for the School Field were so good, it would only be sensible to use the whole amount for the field and use some of the current savings account for the shop. E. Owen re-joined the discussion.

D. Beswick has asked for quotations to cut the outside of the hedge around the allotments. He almost has emails for all allot-ment holders. The amount for cutting the hedges could be added to the allotment rate as this amount would be minimal and they are cheap for allotments. But the allotment holders need to be consulted first. Therefore we need to pay for this first cut. E. Owen proposed to get a proper quotation for cutting the outside of the hedges and get these cut, seconded by B. Paine, all in favour. Action – D.Beswick to organise.

8. Former Primary School sports field - sited at the (North West) junction of MowBarton Road and Lower Road, and diagonally opposite the Village Hall. Report given by B. Paine. Firstly appreciation to the Working Party, including former parish councillors, for their considerable efforts on this project, over the past two years.

Secondly I had, demonstrably been over optimistic, in as much that I had hoped it might have been possible to reach the posi-tion of Exchange of Contracts by this juncture; however herewith a summary of the salient points in the stat of play:

A. Price. The currently agreed price is £27500. This s subject to the determination of the section 77 submission, which may, or may not; give scope for a further negotiated price reduction.

B. Section 77. Rightly or wrongly the SCC position is that they will not submit annS77 application to the D of E (Durham As-sets Section) prior to Exchange of Contracts. Once SCC have made their submission the Parish Council have the opportunity, in parallel, to submit why it should be sold to us as a community asset, and here my thanks to Ben Carlisle who has compiled our case in readiness of the opportunity.

C. Loan. There is a formal offer, in writing, of a Public Works Loan for a loan of up to £27500 which must be taken up by 16th February 2016.

D. Contract. After much cajoling of our solicitor over the past two months, a draft contract received from SCC has been amended to incorporate the Parish Council’s requirements. This week it will be sent to SCC Legal Department. It includes gaining access to the field upon Exchange of Contracts to enable urgent maintenance to begin. It also includes clauses giving the Parish Council the right to reimbursement of legal costs and maintenance expenditure if the purchase should fail through no fault on its part.

9.Children’s play equipment on village recreation field D. Beswick pointed out that the play equipment is there, it is not going away, but we urgently need to look at how to best help with the problems facing the local parishioners. A parishioner showed photos of views from their house. The noise problem is great particularly from the zip wire and he asked the council to seriously consider taking the zip wire down. P. Waters – apologized for the site meeting not happening. Once the screening happens this may help with reducing the noise. If we planted in autumn we would then see how this affects the noise in the spring D. Beswick pointed out some advantages of increased visitors e.g. to the shop and pub. Do the parishioners have any other solution ideas other than taking the zip wire down? B. Paine – could the zip wire be taken down as a trial to compare? We would need to measure the sound properly for this. I.Dibben and B.Paine will look at carrying out a proper sound survey. This would only work if done in the spring next year. Action. A parishioner asked if the colour of the play equipment could be toned down. P.Waters advised that it should soften naturally over time. P.Waters is still looking at the plan including what and where trees will be planted. W.Elliott said that last year we were getting problems with dog mess. However this year he has seen none for 6 months. He has received an email from a parishioner and checked about weight limit and been advised that in no way should we discrim-inate who could use the equipment. He has drafted a proposed sign and shared with the Parish Council which is all we need to comply with the relevant authorities. P. Waters said that two signs have gone missing from the footpath. When discussing suitable signage for the field E. Owen pointed out that cameras cannot be used without a contact number where people can go to view it. D. Beswick contacted the PCSO who has said that there is nothing legally wrong with it. I. Dibben would not like the camera part on as well. It was agreed to take this sign down. A small sign is needed at either end of footpath. I. Dibben will organize this. Action. A parishioner has volunteered to help with notice board which will be for general information. I. Dibben will bring this to the next meeting. Action.

10. Speeding W. Elliott has put a note in the chronicle for thoughts but has only received one response on thoughts. Is it a real or perceived problem? The only thing we can do is get highways to monitor it. D. Beswick has heard from a num-ber of people who do not seem to think there is a speeding problem. A parishioner disagreed. If we see persistent offenders then we can get the details and pass them to the PCSO. E. Owen pointed put that on lower road there are very few places for people to get out of the way of cars. We could trim back some vegetation to help with this. I. Dibben said should we ask Highways to carry out a survey to put facts behind the debate. Action – G. Osborne to contact highways to do this. B.Paine – The village environs, design, layout and style of properties will always give the impression of vehicles going faster than they are in practice. Reminder in the chronicle. Action – Wally to put reminder in chronicle.

11. Bonfire Night We have had a generous offer from a new par ishioner who is highly skilled at car rying Page 6

out a firework display. He would pay half the cost of the fireworks and the insurance. A safe, 10 mins duration display, using fireworks that anybody could buy over the internet, would cost about £1000 total. This would be for the next year. B.Paine said this is a very generous offer. No objections from council and in principle will support. Further detail to be discussed.

12. Next year’s village event W.Elliott – the committee are all agreed that we should have an event next year. The Queen will be 90. There has been no set date for this nationally. It was suggested that it possibly be held the august bank holiday.

13. Date of next meeting Thursday 8th October at 7.30pm.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.17pm

MINUTES OF THE KINGSDON PLANNING MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 10th SEPTEMBER 2015 IN THE VILLAGE HALL, 7.30pm

Present: Mr David Beswick (Chairman); Mr Br ian Paine (vice-chairman); Mr Wally Elliott, Mr Ian Dibbon, Mr Guy Os-borne, Mr.P. Waters, Mrs E. Owen (Parish Councillors); Mrs. K Hatt (Parish Clerk) and Mrs L Moore (RFO).

1. Apologies: None

2. Declarations of Interest: None received.

3. Previous minutes The minutes of the last planning meeting were read, approved and signed. This was proposed by Phillip Waters, seconded by W.Elliott, all were in favour.

4. Planning approvals We have received the following planning approvals: Erection of an agricultural building for the housing of livestock – Cooks Cary Farm.

5. Planning application To consider a planning application relating to Springfield House, Br incil Hill, Kingsdon. Mr S. Jones. Re Application 15/03679/LBC Internal works to alter existing ensuite and dressing room to master bedroom and form en-suite shower to bedroom 2 (GR:351235/125726) The councillors had no objections or problems with the plans. D.Beswick proposed we approve the plans, seconded by W.Elliott, all in favour

ACTION: K Hatt to email the planning inspector the result which is to include the concerns. Meeting closed at 9.26pm.

This Application has been Permitted by South Somerset District Council on 18th September

SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: 01. The works hereby granted consent shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this consent. Reason: As required by Section 16(1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. 02. The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the approved plans received 11 August 2015, application form and supporting documents. Reason: For the avoidance of doubt and in the proper interests of planning.

South Somerset District Council - Planning Application

Application No: 15/04205/FUL

Address: 32 Top Street, Kingsdon, Somer ton, Somerset, TA11 7JU

Proposal: Proposed two storey extensions and internal alterations to 2 no of existing dwellings (32 + 32a, Top Street), and the conversion of former post office, and associated dwelling into 2 no holiday let units (GR 351625/126197

Application Status: Pending Consideration

All documents can be found at: http://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/planningdetails/?id=1504205FUL

Page 7

Vehicles Speeding in Kingsdon

Can I remind everyone that if you are concerned about the speed of vehicles in Kingsdon, especially if it is on a regular oc-currence, please note the vehicle number and who the driver is, if known. This information should then be past to a Parish

Councillor for forwarding to our P.C.S.O. (Police Community Support Officer) Wally

Kingsdon Parish Council Parish Council Meeting – draft agenda

The Kingsdon Parish Council Meeting will be held on Thursday 8th October 2015 in the Village Hall, Kingsdon, starting at 7.30pm. All welcome

Parishioner’s comment time – If you have any comments related to the following agenda items please do contact any councillor should you not be able to make the meeting in person.

Apologies – to receive and approve any apologies for non-attendance Declarations – to receive any declarations of interest Minutes of previous meeting – to receive and approve the minutes of the monthly meeting held on the 10th Septem-

ber 2015. Matters arising not covered by agenda- to report on actions from the previous meeting- allotment hedge cutting

D. Beswick, Contact highways G. Osborne, footpath signs I. Dibben, speeding reminder in chronicle W. Elliott Chairman’s Report

David Beswick to report and make any comments on any important information. Correspondence

Clerk and Councillors to report on any communications not covered by the agenda items. Finance Financial report – report on current finances by the responsible finance officer Cheque signing – cheques which have been paid and cheques for signing Former Primary School sports field - sited at the (north west) junction of Mow Barton Road and Lower

Road , and diagonally opposite the Village Hall Update on the current situation by B. Paine.

Village recreation field To look at a plan for screening and notice board.

Date of next meeting CLERK TO THE PARISH COUNCIL Mrs K. Hatt 01935 841275 katehatt@btinternet.com

Kingsdon Parish Council

PLANNING MEETING

to be held on Thursday 1st October 2015, 7pm in Kingsdon Village Hall, everyone is invited to attend.

Present and apologies

Previous planning minutes - approval

Planning acceptances to be read

To consider a planning application No: 15/04205/FUL Applicant: Julian Hutt, Little Owl Barn, Frog Lane. Kingsdon. Address: 32 Top Street, Kingsdon, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 7JU Proposal: Proposed two storey extensions and internal alterations to 2 no of existing dwellings (32 + 32a, Top Street), and the conversion of former post office, and associated dwelling into 2 no holiday let units (GR 351625/126197

The Parish Clerk, Kate Hatt on 01935 841275 kingsdonclerk@btinternet.com

For Sale:

Beautiful baby's pram in excellent condition. Comes with all accessories and mattress. £85 ono.

Contact Lisa Marie on 07871824763 or email Lisawhitbread@rocketmail.com. Can be viewed

at Orchard house, Top Street, Kingsdon

Page 8

Kingsdon Battle of Britain Commemoration Weekend Income / Expenditure

£

Income Dance Tickets £1,492.00 Draw Tickets £591.00 Donations £20.00 Face painting £45.60 Skittles / Coconut Shy £16.10 Honey sale £70.00 Cakes £80.00 Stocks £14.50 ? No Name on Cash Bag ? £64.50 Cream teas £223.50 Eric's wine/water bottles £169.00 BBQ over 29th & 30th £723.40 Bar Takings over weekend £3,034.21 Song of Praise collection £75.20

£6,619.01 Expendi-

ture

Printing Raffle & Dance Tickets

£81.99

SSDC T.E.N. Licence LIC-214835 £21.00 Hire Bar, Table & Chairs £204.00 BBQ Items £463.28 1000 Plastic Pints Glasses £41.94 Band £250.00 Disco £180.00 Lighting £50.00 2 Sacks coconuts £15.00 Bar Stock & Equipment £1,980.94

£3,288.15 PROFIT / LOSS £3,330.86

Here is the Income / Expenditure A/c for our fantastic weekend.

Firstly a great big 'Thank You' to all who participated in making the two days so suc-cessful, and also to all who supported the events. The large profit is due in part to certain vil-lagers very generously providing items we would normally have had to hire.

There is one person who in the rush to write up the report in last months Chronicle imme-diately after the event, I omitted from thank-ing, that is Phil Waters. Phil saved us a lot of money by arranging the free loan of the two marquee - Thanks Phil. I know Phil was also grateful to all who turned out in numbers to help putting up and then taking down the two marquees.

Thanks also to all who manned the various stalls and provided the cream teas etc. you all did a great job The money has now been banked in the Kingsdon Jubilee Fund. A meeting of the trustees will be held shortly to discuss the distribution of the fund.

Kingsdon Recreation Field

A new sign has now been installed at the entrance to the village recreation field.

The South Somerset Play inspectors who car-ried out the installation inspection of the play equipment (and risk assessment) last year and who have carried out the annual inspection this year, were specifically asked should we have signage indicating an age limit for the equip-ment.

The response, from South Somerset District Council’s Senior Play and Youth Facilities Of-ficer, Rob Parr (who assisted with the survey) was that in no way should we discriminate who could use the equipment. It was safe to be used by all ages and even items like the zip wire and nest swing were cleared to be used by most adults. The weight limits are well above most large adults - up to 18 stone.

They absolutely felt the play equipment should be inclusive, therefore no age signage was required. They felt that adults and grandparents bringing their children down to use it was positive and if they play on the equipment with the children then this was even better and encouraged play, learning and com-munity spirit.

This sign therefore contains all the information the Parish Council is required to supply for the field and the play equipment thereon. (Wally)

Page 9

Dog Fouling

After a spell without any problems, in the last few weeks a number of incidents of dog fouling have been reported.

The incidents were both on and off the vil-lage field.

One of the worst cases reported was on the driveway of a property in Manor Road where dog faeces appeared over night. The owner of the property is absolutely sure that someone in the village is allowing their dog to wander at night and it is not visitors to the play equipment.

Please report any sightings of dogs straying unattended, also an address would help.

PLEASE

Page 10

A Special Page for Cheese Lovers.

With October now here, it is the season for a rather tasty love of mine, Vacherin Mont d'Or, or to give the cheese its full due, Vacherin Mont d'Or AOC which is only available from October to March. Whatever name you know it by, this Cheese is the holy grail of Raw Milk Cheeses.

Straddling the high pastures of the Swiss / French Border is the mountainous peak of Mont d’Or (1461m), as the summer comes to an end and the air gets cooler, the cows come down the mountain and their milk becomes fattier and reduces in quantity. These changes mean making Comté (a hard aged cheese) more difficult. Hence, traditionally, a soft, rich, quick-ripening small cheese is made. To this day the cheese can only be made seasonally between 15th August and 15th March.

According to Pascal Monneron, the head of the Vacherin Mont D'Or association, about 70 tons are exported to France, UK and other parts of Europe but also further afield to Japan, with five tons going to Canada and the US. That sounds a lot but if you consider that as 150,000 individual 500g boxes across the whole planet, that's not much to go round so make sure you can get yours while you can!

The reason there isn't larger volume being created is because there are only thirteen producers or ‘'finishers'' of Vacherin Mont D'Or. These teams have to work according to tightly controlled criteria in a carefully determined zone of production in Vaud where the cheese may be made according to Swiss federal-government 'AOC' regulation ('AOC' stands for Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée and is similar to PDO in the UK (the European standard Protected Designation of Origin.)

Vacherin Mont D'Or received its AOC certification in 2003 to protect its provenance. About half of the total thirteen produc-ers and finishers are located in Les Charbonnières and its surrounding villages so it is here that the "Fête du Vacherin Mont D'Or AOC" is celebrated every year in the main square.

If you haven't tried Vacherin Mont D'Or it is an absolute cheese-lover's must. When suitably ripe, the cheese under the pale yellow crust is soft and deliciously alpine. When very ripe it becomes super oozy and spoonable. Its superbly rich creaminess is enhanced by woody notes from the strip of spruce bark that encircles the cheese inside the box, in which it is always fa-mously served.

If you do get your hands on a Vacherin Mont d’Or this winter be sure to savour it in all it’s glory, and, if you can – remember Britain’s eminent cheesemonger of the past, Patrick Rance’s advice on how to get the most out of eating your Vacherin: ‘if you are not in stuffy company: lick the bark after each mouthful of cheese, and do not waste what is left; put it on the fire to die in a scent of glory’….

Vacherin Mont d’Or can be bought from:

The Cheese and Wine Shop, 11 South Street, Wellington, Somer set TA21 8NR Phone 01823 662899 Email en-quiry@thecheeseandwineshop.co.uk

Pong Cheese: Via email: hello@pongcheese.co.uk Via post: Pong Customer Services, Unit 16 The Industr ial Quar ter , Bath Business Park, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8SF Via telephone: 08447 453065 between 08:00 and 20:00, Monday to Friday, and Satur-day 08:00 to 13:00. Duck burger and chips

Serves 2 By Michel Roux Jr. From Food & Drink For the duck burger

2 large duck breasts 2 tbsp Vacherin cheese, scooped from the middle 2 banana shallots, peeled and sliced into thin strips 1 tbsp butter 250g/9oz girolle mushrooms, cleaned 2 brioche buns

For the chips vegetable oil, for deep frying 2 King Edward potatoes, cleaned and chipped

This is a burger like no other: a melting scoop of Vacherin cheese encased in minced duck meat and served in a brioche bun with girolle mushrooms. Delish.

You will need a mincer for this recipe (alternatively, ask your butcher to mince the duck meat).

N.B. Other soft cheeses can be used.

Preparation method 1.For the duck burger, roughly remove about two-thirds of the fat from each duck breast and then chop them into chunks and pass through a mincer. Season the meat well and form into two balls using your hands. 2.Take one ball of meat and push a scoop of Vacherin into the centre. Form the meat around the Vacherin and pat down a little to make a classic burger shape. Repeat with the remaining ball and scoop of cheese. 3.Preheat the oil in a deep fat fryer to 160C/325F (CAUTION: hot oil can be dangerous: Do not leave unattended.) 4.Rinse the chipped potatoes under cold running water to remove any excess starch. Dry thoroughly on a clean tea towel and then place into the hot oil to cook for about 8-10 minutes. The chips should begin to lightly colour on the outside and be soft enough to crush between your fingers. 5.Carefully remove the chips from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on a plate lined with kitchen paper. Increase the oil temperature to 180C/350F 6.In the meantime, heat a griddle pan over a high heat. Once hot, add the burg-ers and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely cooked on each side and just cooked through in the middle. If you like your burger fully cooked through, place in a hot oven for a few minutes to finish. Otherwise, place the burgers on a warm plate to rest. 7.Place the sliced shallots onto the hot griddle to caramelise. Cook for about two minutes. 8.Heat the butter in a separate pan over a high heat. Add the mushrooms and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until just softened. 9.When you are ready to eat, add the chips to the hot oil and cook for less than 2-3 minutes, or until golden-brown and crisp. Remove and drain on a plate lined with kitchen paper. 10.Serve the duck burgers with the shallots and mushrooms in a brioche bun.

Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years they had shared all kinds of activities and adven-tures. Lately, their activities had been limited to playing cards a few times a week. One day when playing cards, one looked at the other and said, “Now don’t get mad at me. I know we’ve been friends a long time, but I just can’t think of your name. I’ve thought and thought, but I can’t remem-ber it. Please tell me what your name is.” Her friend glared at her. For at least three minutes she just stared and glared. Finally she said, “How soon do you need to know?” A lady about 8 months pregnant got on a bus she noticed the man opposite her was smiling at her. She immediately moved to another seat. This time the smile turned into a grin, so she moved again. The man seemed more amused. When on the fourth move, the man burst out laughing, she complained to the driver and he had the man arrested. The case came up in court. The judge asked the man (about 20 years old) what he had to say for himself. The young man replied, Well your Honor, it was like this: When the lady got on the bus, I couldn't help but notice her condition. She sat down under a sign that said, "The Double Mint Twins are coming" and I grinned. Then she moved and sat under a sign that said, "Logan's Liniment will reduce the swelling", and I had to smile. Then she placed herself under a deodorant sign that said, "William's Big Stick Did the Trick", and I could hardly contain myself. BUT, Your Honor, when she moved the fourth time and sat under a sign that said, "Goodyear Rubber could have prevented this Accident", I just lost it. "CASE DISMISSED!!" Vocabulary A very intelligent boy was fortunate enough to be receiving a far better education than his parents had enjoyed, and his vocabulary far outstripped theirs. One day he came home from school and said “Mommy, may I relate to you a narra-tive?” “What’s a narrative, Gerald?” she asked. “A narrative, Mommy, is a tale.” “Oh, I see,” said his mother nodding, and Gerald told her his story. At bedtime as he was about to go upstairs he said, “Shall I extinguish the light Mommy?” “What’s extinguish?” she asked. “Extinguish means to put out, Mommy,” said brainy Gerald “Oh, I see. Yes, certainly.” The next day the clergyman came to tea and the family dog began to make a nuisance of himself, as a dog will, by beg-ging for goodies from the table. “Gerald,” said his mother, trying to impress “Take that dog by the narrative and extinguish him!” A male patient is lying in bed in the hospital, wearing an oxygen mask over his mouth and nose. A pretty, young, student nurse is giving him a partial sponge bath. 'Nurse', he mumbles, from behind the mask. 'Are my testicles black?' Embarrassed, the young nurse replies, 'I don't know, Sir. I'm only here to wash your upper body and feet.' He struggles to ask again, 'Nurse, please check. Are my tes-ticles black?' Concerned that he may elevate his blood pressure and heart rate from worry about his testicles, she overcomes her embarrassment and pulls back the covers. She raises his gown and holds his privates. Then, she takes a close look and says, 'There's nothing wrong with them, Sir!' The man pulls off his oxygen mask, smiles at her and says very slowly: “Thank you very much. That was wonderful, but, listen very, very closely……………….... 'A r e - m y - t e s t - r e s u l t s - b a c k ??'

A Riddle A man left home one morning. He turned right and ran straight ahead. Then he turned left. After a while, he turned left again, running faster than ever. Then he turned left once more and decided to go home. In the distance he could see two masked men waiting for him. Who were they?.............. Answer on page 12 Somewhere in the Caribbean a teacher asks her class: “Can anyone tell me thevname of Robin Hood’s lady fiend?” Little Jonny raises his hand and says “Trudy Glenn Miss”. “No Jonny” says the teacher. “The answer is Maid Marion”. But Miss, what about that song we used to sing, “Robin Hood, Robin Hood riding Trudy Glenn”. Two old Jewish men, Sid and Abe, are sitting in a Mexican restaurant one day. Sid asks Abe, “Do you know if any people of our ancestry were ever born and raised in Mexico?” Abe replies, “I don’t know, let’s ask the waiter.” The waiter says, “I don’t know senor, I ask the cooks” He returns from the kitchen after a few minutes and says “No senor, the cook say no Mexican Jews”. Abe isn’t satisfied and asks, “Are you absolutely sure?” The waiter, realising he is dealing with ‘Gringos’ replies, “I check once again, senor”, and goes back into the kitchen While the waiter is away, Sid says, “I find it hard to be-lieve that there are no Jews in Mexico. Our people are scattered everywhere.” The waiter returns and says, “Senor, the head cook Ma-nuel, he says there is no Mexican Jews!” “Are you cer-tain ?” Abe asks again I just can’t believe there are no Mexican Jews.” “Senior, I ask EVERYONE” replies the exasperated waiter. “ All we have is Orange Jews, Grape Jews, Prune Jews, Tomato Jews and Apple Jews, but no Mexican Jews.” One Liners Stealing someone’s coffee is called ‘Mugging’

The other day I held the door open for a Clown. It was a nice Jester.

Pasteurise: Too far to see.

No matter how much you push the envelope it will still be Stationery.

Whoever invented “Knock-Knock” jokes should get a No-bell prize.

I put my Grandma on speed dial…….I call that Instagram

What do you call a laughing motorcycle? A Yamahaha

My dad worked on the roadwork’s for twenty years before he got fired for stealing! At first I didn't believe it... but when I got home all the signs were there. There was an old professor who started every class with a vulgar joke. After one particularly nasty example, the women in the class decided to walk out the next time he started. The professor got wind of this plot, so the next morning he walked in and said, “Good morning, class. Did you hear the one about the shortage of whores in India?” With that, all the women stood up and headed for the door. “Wait, ladies,” cried the professor, “The boat doesn't leave until tomorrow!”

Page 11

NOT JUST A PRETTY FACE By Peter Crowter

Cull half a million deer they say and no one seems to mind, But talk about a badger cull and this is what you find,

Those who worship Brock say it’s an absolute disgrace, Is this because the badger has got such a pretty face?

Another reason why his fans rise up to his defence, A valid one we all agree, in this one we see sense. A persecuted victim that some evil men call sport,

Dug from his sett and baited and with luck the men are caught.

He’s had complete protection now, since 1993, And up to now he’s earned it, that I’m sure you would agree.

But herein lies a problem and an answer must be found, Because he’s so successful, he’s too thick upon the ground.

Badgers are omnivorous, on anything they’ll feed, Which means they’re never short of food, there’s every thing they need.

They also have no enemies, no predators to fear, Their numbers are increasing and they breed throughout the year.

Now you may love the badger but he really is no saint, He feeds on helpless creatures and a friendly chap he aint.

Birds that nest upon the ground he eats their eggs and chicks, Prising open hedgehogs, is another of his tricks.

Regarding species numbers nature likes to be in charge, Usually she’s in control if numbers get too large.

She uses food and predators and also habitat, But badger’s not affected, he can cope with all of that.

But nature has a last resort, something that may not please, The setts are overcrowded so she has to use disease. So that is maybe why the badgers suffer from TB,

Page 12 Riddle answer: The umpire and the catcher, it was a baseball game!

Kingsdon Ladies Club

The September meeting of the Ladies Club was attended by 15 members. Lisa Newbury was this month's birthday girl and was presented with a posy. A reminder was given for the Harvest Supper which will be held in the village hall on Sunday 11th October. Jackie Ellis then welcomed Jane Cobb and her daughter Millie to give us a talk on the family business, Cobbs Health Foods, in Somerton. She will be celebrating 25years in the shop on the 25th May 2016! Jane had a display of the most popular prod-ucts she sells in the shop and gave us a very interesting talk on the benefits of them for high blood pressure, arthritis, and R. Arthritis, cholesterol, and diabetes. At the end of the talk we were given a sample pack of muesli and one of dried fruit. Refreshments were provided by Joyce Limon and Babs Conway. The next meeting of the Kingsdon Ladies Club is on the 13th October at 7.30 pm in the village hall and the speaker is Jo Beddington and the talk is - Just a Drop. New members welcome.

Kingsdon 100+ Club September Draw Winners

The Draw was made at the Village Shop on 10th Sept.

1st No. 42 £15 Ann Baldwin

2nd No. 16 £10 Jim Masters

3rd No. 33 £5 Steve Quinlan (Donated to Jubilee Fund)

Collection Dates for Kingsdon in October

Wheelie Bins - Tuesday 6th and 20th

Recycling - Every Tuesday

Green Bins - Tuesdays 13th & 27th

Smokey Kingsdon

The smoke that invaded the village late morning on Thursday 24th September originated from a fire just below the woods between Catsgore Lane and Midney Farm, which was controlled burning by forestry workers - It was nothing to do with anyone in the village. Thanks to the weather conditions the smoke just rolled over the hill and down onto the village where it settled!!

Cream Teas

CAN YOU HELP? You don’t have to be religious to appreciate having a fabulous

medieval church right here in the midst of our lovely village. The annual All Saints’ church bazaar helps to raise some money

for the maintenance of the building and the grounds. This year it is going to be held on

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 7th between 11am and 1pm.

So put the date in your diary now. There will be lots of fun for all

ages from face painting to guessing the weight of the cake to a

treasure island map hunt and of course Kingsdon’s famous bacon

and egg butties.

But support and donations are still needed, especially if you can contribute in any way to:. Bottle stall – contact Liz Stirzaker on 01935 840867 Gift stall (ideas for Xmas gifts etc) – contact Norma Black on 01935 840727 Bargain Basement –contact Mary Whitehead on 01935 840231 The big Raffle - with a variety of generous hampers as prizes. If you feel you can help here, contact Brian and Gill Paine

on 01935 842058 to find out more. There will also be a cakes, foods and preserve stall and contributions for this can be delivered straight to the Village Hall be-

fore 11am on the day of the bazaar.

The sun shone on the Macmillan Can-cer Care supporters, who attended the Cream Tea event at Kingsdon Com-munity Shop, on Saturday 26th Sep-tember, which had been organised by Kathie Jamison. Kathie would like to thank all those who helped, either in the kitchen, shop or served all the guests to make the day so successful and also every-one who attended and gave so gener-ously. By the end of the day £345 had been raised with a further £41 in Gift Aid. The amount far out weighed Kathie’s target of £100. Pictured with Kathie & Glenn are Dr Christine Sullivan with her husband and Peter Woodgate and his wife from Macmillan. Also pictured is Phoebe Freeman who worked tirelessly all afternoon serving and clearing tables - she was a star.

Page 13

Kingsdon Community Shop

Not too sure how we’ve got to October but here it is, coming round the corner. Now, one of the great things about autumn is the amount of home grown produce that we have on offer at the shop. People who produce surplus fruit and veg leave it with us and then customers make a donation – it all works beautifully. You’ll find the produce on the market barrow outside the shop. So what have we got for you in October?

Kingsdon Community Arts Project The Kingsdon Community art project is coming together beautifully. All of the classes have now finished and we’ve had lots of contributions. Thank you so much for all of you who have made work, there’s some really superb stuff coming in and all so individual – thank you, thank you. The community exhibition runs from 3rd until the 17th October, and is open Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursday, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 – 4. We were wondering if any of you would be willing help with stewarding, just two hours on one of our open days. All it in-volves in sitting in the space, talking to visitors, admiring the work – there’ll be no taking of money. You can sit and read, draw, knit or anything else you fancy. There’s a sign up form in the Community Shop should you be able to help.

Thanks in advance but for now, here are a few more pieces of your beautiful work

10th October 1 – 4pm

Toasted Teacake Saturday

Yummy!

10th October 10:30am

Kingsdon Knitting Club

Do join us, bring your knitting or crochet – there’ plenty of advice on hand if you’d like some help, too.

14th October 2pm

Chit Chat Wednesday

Come along and enjoy a natter with a cuppa and a slice of cake.

17th October 11 till 11:30am

Story Time With Linda Parry

Letter to the Editor

May I, through your pages, thank all who came to my party. I hope they enjoyed it as much as I did. I am sorry that Sarah Jory was unable to come, owing to last minute illness, but she offered to come at Christmas time.

Thank you all for your cards and good wishes, I am pleased to tell you that your generosity resulted in £166.78 for the Air Ambulance.

I would also like to say how impressed I was with the appearance of the Village Hall. As a past chairman of the Hall com-mittee I can only say “Well done” and “Thank you” to the present committee & all cleaners, but in my opinion, maybe it IS time now to think of the village hall future before it is too late. Steve Attwell

P.s. Lonnie Donnegan Jnr. said that he would like to live in Kingsdon - the female singer has always taken her children to other parks to play, not realising there was one here in Kingsdon. She was so impressed with it and the friendliness they met, and would like to use it in the future.

Page 14

Once again we are fortunate to be able to present another highly subsidised event through

Somerset “takeart”a pioneering arts charity. See www.takeart.org

Saturday 21st November 2015

At 7.30.pm In Kingsdon Village Hall

“The Schmoozenbergs”

A Bristol based band of musicians with a passion for gypsy, jazz and swing.

It promises to be a foot tapping and happy music with irresistible rhythms and lyrical melodies.

Come and join in a fun musical evening with magical vibrant sounds.

Ticket prices: £10 Adults £8 Children

Available from Kingsdon Village Shop

Richard South 01935 840912 Brian Paine 01935 842058

Page 15

Saturday 24th October - 10am to 12.30

The Estate Yard, Manor Road, Kingsdon

Bring & buy books and cakes

Home-made preserves

Tea & coffee Raffle

Tel: Nina Carlisle 01935 840933 for further information

VISION AID OVERSEAS I will be heading off to Northern Ethiopia with a team of 5 Optometrists for 2 1/2 weeks in early November. We will be taking Gondar University final year Optometry students on Outreach visiting rural villages to examine eyes and provide glasses where needed. These will be made in the Vision Centre established by Vision Aid Overseas. We will also be delivering an enhanced training programme to Gondar University Faculty Staff. My usual coffee morning fund raiser will be on 24th October – please come and enjoy a drink and a chat with friends and stock up with delicious home made preserves and cakes! And my annual Spectacular Quiz will be on sale at Kingsdon Community Shop very soon.

Thank you for your support

Nina Carlisle

VISION AID OVERSEAS BOOK SALE & COFFEE MORNING

The Harvest Moon and Eclipse

The Harvest Moon just after it rose over Kingsdon on Sunday evening, followed by its eclipse from 2am - 4am on Monday morning 28th Sept. The next eclipse of the moon will be 2019 (Wally)

Page 16

Page 17

Reliable and trustworthy babysitter in Kingsdon

I have experience of look-ing after children of all ages and have an up to date CRB check.

I would love to come and meet you and your family prior to babysitting so that you can get to know me and discuss any rou-tines.

Please call, text or email Kelly Osborne to enquire 01935849174 kellyos-borne@hotmail.co.uk

£7 per hour, references

furnicare was established as a furniture reuse project in 1992. We collect good quality unwanted household furniture, electrical items and general household goods which we sell at reasonable prices to our members. Membership is available to local residents of South Somerset and the surrounding areas who are in receipt of means tested benefits or on a low income.

Our showroom, based in Goldcroft Yeovil, displays all of our cur-rent stock including sofas, beds and white goods. New stock is added on a daily basis.

The success of our project is dependent on donations of good qual-ity unwanted furniture and electrical items. To find out more about our FREE collection service phone 01935 433416

furnicare is a managed project of South Somerset Association for Voluntary & Community Action Limited (SSVCA).

For Sale

Dreamland Intelliheat Over-blanket, Single size. As new, very good condition. Just not needed.

Argos price £59.99………... Will accept £40.00.. Rosemary on 01935 840799

Page 18

Thinking about selling or letting your property?

Looking for a new home in the local area? Then look no further. …

Kingsdon Resident Gabby Osborne is your local property expert & the new Branch Manager at Palmer Snell in Somerton.

Gabby has lived in Kingsdon for over 20 years & has been an estate agent in the local area for 9 years.

Who better to sell your property than someone who knows the area, knows the market & is passionate about the village.

For a professional & confidential service guaranteed throughout, call Palmer Snell today for a FREE Market Appraisal on 01458 272989.

A.D.M. STONEMASON Manor Road, Kingsdon

All stonework undertaken, new works and all

repairs and re-pointing.

General Building & Maintenance works carried out

Free Quotes / Advice contact Alan (37 yrs experience)

Tel 01935 840839 / 07733590971

Free to Collect! "Free to collect; an adjustable free standing basketball hoop and back board. Water filled base with wheels for ease of movement. It is on the driveway at Ridge House on Frog Lane. Come and help yourself!!!!"

Progress in plan to end landfill in Somerset

Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) is making good progress in its plans to end almost all use of landfill in Somerset and re-duce the present £12 million a year cost of rubbish disposal through burial.

SWP's governing Somerset Waste Board (SWB) of councillors from all six Somerset local authorities today (Friday 25 Sep-tember) approved a progress report and gave the go ahead to issue a European-wide tender to find a company to provide an alternative to landfill for Somerset.

The latest stage also involved seeking two sites for waste transfer stations, one to serve broadly the east of the county and one to serve the west, where domestic rubbish can be bulked up for transport out of county for treatment or turning into fuel for export or UK use.

The options were whittled down from more than 60 possible sites to a shortlist of 10 for the west and seven to serve the east. The search has homed-in to two preferred options, and one fall-back, on the basis of availability, size, position, risk of con-gestion, likelihood of gaining planning and permitting consent, and costs.

Bidders will not be obliged to use the two preferred sites but they will be available for any bidder who does not have any al-ternatives. While the SWP preferred options do not include the existing landfill sites at Dimmer and Walpole, these could still also be proposed by bidders.

If approved by the SWB, the locations of the preferred sites will be identified later, once land negotiations have been con-cluded and when applications for planning permission and Environment Agency permits are made.

The cost savings sought by the six councils that make up SWP's partnership could be secured and exceeded by Somerset resi-dents simply by recycling far more and wasting far less, as 50% of the average rubbish bin could be recycled at the kerbside and a further 10% recycled at Somerset network of 16 recycling sites.

As part of its efforts to help residents waste less, recycle more and save money, SWP unveiled today the new livery for its rubbish collection vehicles.

The new “wrap” livery is both a protective system to preserve the appearance and value of the vehicle and promotes a strong waste message.

Against a backdrop of contrasting images of landfilled rubbish and Somerset countryside, including the Glastonbury Tor, it urges “Less of this … Think before you bin” and “More of this … Recycle More (every bit helps)”.

Kingsdon Community Shop

is stocked ready for

Christmas Baking Ready to roll Icing

Pitted Dates

Walnuts (Californian)

Marzipan

Mixed Vine Fruit

Cherries

Vanilla Extract

Easy Bake Yeast

Mincemeat

Sugar (Icing, Demerara, Golden Granulated)

Desiccated Coconut

Wessex Mill Flour (Self Raising / Plain)

Milk Chocolate (for baking)

Ground Almonds

Page 19