This is the last issue of The Dove to embrace Batcombe, Lamyatt and Upton Noble. It’s sad to see them go, but as Father Justin pointed out last month it’s not a total divorce, and there will be opportunities for collaboration in future. We will continue to highlight any interesting events in the three parishes, and indeed in any other of our neighbouring parishes, that come to our attention.

November, and the very moving Remembrance Day parade and church service organised by the Royal British Legion will once again draw most of the population of Bruton and the surrounding villages. This year the day falls on the 11th, so The Silence really will be at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month. Many of the other parishes also have a Remembrance Day service, Batcombe’s at 11am, Brewham’s at 10am, Pitcombe’s at 10.50am, Shepton Montague’s at 9.30am and Upton Noble’s at 9.20am.

The question of the Surgery continues to dominate local news. By the time this issue comes out, we very much hope that the question of the new site will be resolved and plans can swiftly proceed. See page 11.
The archaeological investigation of the former Abbey lands, now part of King’s School playing fields, has thrown up some fascinating information. Roger Gallannaugh’s article (page 18) gives more details.
Those of our readers who know me well will be aware that I am particular about spelling and grammar. No prizes for spotting the mistake in the third line of the October editorial – ‘loose’ for ‘lose’. This was very much a last-minute typing glitch – after all, nobody’s perfect, as the ending of one of my favourite films has it. Apologies!
Elisabeth Balfour