As we leave winter behind (not too much of a pious hope, surely), wildlife tends to come into greater focus.  The Wild Plant Charity is aiming to call attention to local plants and to stimulate interest among school pupils and adults alike. Read about it on page 27. And there is a treat for bird-lovers: if you are lucky you may spot the hawfinches which have taken up temporary residence in St Mary’s churchyard (also on page 27). At least seven have now been counted!


Another nice little fact has come out of the Wild Plant article: the county flower of Somerset is the Cheddar pink, Dianthus gratianopolitanus. Does anyone have any growing in their garden, or know of a colony somewhere in or near the Benefice?

Two articles call attention to important topics of more than immediately local interest. The Minerals Plan for Somerset is currently under discussion – do we want the process of ‘fracking’ to take place here? The geology of Somerset is suitable, and there are strong arguments both for and against. See the contact details on page 31 if you want to add your voice to the discussion. And the South Somerset Local Plan will affect all of us at some point – you can view the plans and maps, and contact the Programme Officer, through the addresses on page 33.

Finally, warm congratulations to Mill on the Brue, which has just won gold in the South West Sustainable Tourism awards – a terrific achievement! This habit of award-winning is catching…

Elisabeth Balfour