Secrets of Village Life in Somerset grew out of my curiosity about what truly holds a community together. Over ten weeks, I visited residents across Priddy, Westbury-sub-Mendip and Easton, listening to their experiences and inviting them to speak in their own words. Every interviewee had the chance to review their contribution (twice) before publication, so what appears in the book is exactly...
THE STATE OF THE COUNTRY — THEMED SUMMARY - by Carl Ben*jam*in Full talk with headings is here. 1. National Decline & Public Frustration Speaker argues the UK is visibly deteriorating: no improvement in living standards, failing infrastructure, rising taxes and stagnant wages. Public patience has worn thin after decades of political promises not delivered. Economic growth is near zero while...
We took my visitor along to hear a very detailed and thorough talk about factors to consider when planning a garden from the wild life point of view. So for all gardeners (roll of drums) here is a summary of last nights talk The Ten Principles of Wildlife Garden Design - Given by Giggy at the Mendips Garden Club 19th November 2025 Higgy’s “10 S-Principles” offer a comprehensive and practical...
One of my interviewees for my book invited me to a gathering or party on a very moonless night. Mercifully the tempest and rain of the previous days had died down and I was so glad to hear that the rain stopped just in time for the Wells Carnival (held 14th November) to start. I had no idea what to expect. I was told that people had to bring their own food, the event would be held around a...
This is a testimony of the Vicar at Holy Trinity Frome at our mens group this evening Thursday 13 Nov 2025 My journey to becoming a vicar has never been straightforward. In many ways, it has meandered its way through places, experiences, and churches that were sometimes joyful, sometimes painful, and often surprising. Looking back, I realise nothing about my story was predictable, but nearly...
Francoise agreed to come with my to my adopted chapel and enjoy a visiting speaker, Robert Dungey, who is one of the regional co-coordinators for MAF UK 'Flying for Life'. There were about a dozen of us and Robert gave a wonderful testimony from the heart about this 80 year old institution which started with one plane and now has around 130. Sunday 2 November 2025 – Talk by Robert Dungey,...
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Inspired by Samuel Pepys’ Diary 1633-1703
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