Driving Challenge for South Someset MIND

Always up for a challenge, and fresh from her Sky Dive at Old Sarum, which raised £400 for local charity, The Jemima Layzell Trust, Councillor Linda Piggott-Vijeh is now all set for taking on another challenge. This time Linda is helping to raise funds for South Somerset MIND by taking on their Driving Challenge at Henstridge Airfield on June 30th.

Said Linda, ‘I always like to push boundaries and to try things that I have never done before. I can well recall, many years ago, running amoke with a combine harvester on the Dillington Estate. Quite illegal of course, but it really was the most fun. This time I am aiming to drive as many big beasts as possible. At just £15 per person to enter it really will be a great way to have a fun day out whilst also supporting this really important charity. In an effort to help South Somerset MIND to raise even more money I am encouraging friends to sign up, and also to sponsor me. The challenge is also open to men this year for the first time.

I am also really excited that my fellow Rotarians, from the Rotary Club of Ilminster, have also agreed to take have a go as part of our ongoing community support work.

I am quite competitive, so I am aiming to gain the most points in the Westerley Mini reversing test, and be able to change a tyre the quickest, in the hope that I will be able to win the prize of going up in a light aircraft.’

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q5_Foo4aIs4Xe5wlSWeWJmchCGFEFh0G/view?usp=sharing

Sky Dive for Jemima Layzell Trust - PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES

‘Why on earth would you want to jump out of a perfectly serviceable plane?’, was the question most frequently asked when I decided to do my first ever skydive.

Unlike others, it is not something I have always had an urge to do, or even felt that it would be exciting.

I did it just because it seemed like a good idea at the time, and I had never done it before. As simple as that.

For as long as I can remember I have always wanted to push the boundaries. After all, isn’t that what boundaries are for?

The list is endless; completing a jack-stay transfer between two naval ships in the middle of the Pacific, even though I am afraid of water; landing a high profile chef’s job with no qualifications or experience; walking to Macchu Picchu with no proper equipment; taking on the NHS; abseiling down County Hall; and getting my first ever tattoo at the age of 60 (which subsequently landed me in hot water, a place I am all too familiar with).

Fortunately, I am not afraid of heights. In the case of my skydive, which I decided to do on behalf of a local charity, The Jemima Layzell Trust, I was not afraid of jumping out of the plane. I was petrified of landing and doing myself an injury; I just do not have the time to be out of action. Being able to raise my knees up high enough proved to be the most challenging bit. That, and all of the ‘medical’ questions which to my mind would exclude all but a handful of willing contenders.

So it was that this morning, I arrived bright and early at Old Sarum airfield, near Salisbury, to undergo my induction training, and then to wait, and wait, until the mist had lifted to reveal a beautiful sunny day.

I am not quite as slim as I once was, my waistline having long since succumbed to middle aged spread, but it was still rather galling to be fitted with a ‘large’ jumpsuit, on the grounds that the zip on the medium one first allocated to me broke whilst trying to contain my girth. I was also vexed to discover that my handsome young instructor (a pre-requisite I felt, to ease the pain of the experience), Edward King, actually weighed less than I did. Perhaps time to focus more on the diet?

By the time I approached the plane, having signed my life away, I was a paler shade of my former self, and my internal organs were beginning to re-act in a most disconcerting way. Please God, do not let me have an accident, or throw up on him. His comment, ‘Don’t worry, I have the sick bags.’, did not exactly fill me with confidence.

Once on the plane, along with five other jumpers and their instructors, firmly strapped to my own instructor, I said a quiet prayer, telling myself to remain positive, that of course it was safe, thousands of people had done it before me, and I was in good hands.

Edward was, to put not too fine a point on it, simply amazing; constantly checking on my wellbeing, and keeping me informed every step of the way. I had decided that as I was only planning to do this the once, I would go for broke and jump out at 15,000 feet (about 3 miles up). I have never been one for doing things by half.

I was the last to jump and having shuffled myself forward to the edge of the opening there wasn’t really much option as I was basically tipped out, over the edge and free falling for a full minute at 125 miles per hour. Did I feel an adrenaline rush? No. Was it exhilarating? No. Did I admire the scenery? Not really. I think the overwhelming feeling was one of relief. I really did enjoy free falling, but not so much the sharp jerk as the parachute was deployed and we slowly made our way towards terra firma at a very sedate pace.

As for the landing, I managed to keep my knees up and my legs out of the way, barely noticing we had hit the ground, so smooth was our landing. All over. Done and dusted.

Am I glad I did it? Yes. Do I feel that I have achieved something? Yes. Would I do it again? Absolutely. In fact I have already made arrangements to do it again, for South Somerset MIND this time.

I am hooked. Sometimes it is very fulfilling to do things that take one out of one’s comfort zone. Or, just maybe it has something to do with being strapped to a handsome young man. I couldn’t possible comment.

PS - I did not throw up, and managed to get to the facilities just in time.

My fundraising page is still live and here is my unique URL https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/lindavijehskydive

Ilminster Literary Festival 2018

I have always been an avid reader and need no encouragement to get my nose stuck into a good book. On average, I plough my way through a book a week; I even rate my holidays by the number of books I get to read. Hence my shock on discovering that research undertaken in 2017 has revealed that in the UK less than 1 in 4 people have read a book in the last 12 months. A sad reflection of our modern-day society. Thankfully, the popularity of local literary festivals, along with World Book Day, is helping to turn the tide.

As Ilminster gears up for its 3^rd annual literary festival it has given me pause for reflection, particularly in relation to the enormous amount of work that goes into pulling it all together. One of the joys, and the challenges, lies in the planning of the programme.

Whilst the attendance of well-established literary figures certainly gains interest and helps to draw in the crowds, the Lit Fest also provides the opportunity for up and coming authors to showcase their latest literary masterpiece.

When it comes to gaining the attention of a local audience across the full spectrum of ages and interests, the BBC’s own mission statement to ‘Inform, Educate and Entertain’, seems most pertinent. That, combined with a little audience participation thrown into the mix, and a bevvy and a bite, is surely the perfect recipe for a successful event. The large number of positive comments from the last two Lit Fests bears this out. It is a process of engagement with the audience and authors alike, responding to their observations; selecting appropriate venues to set the scene can play a key part in the final outcome.

When attending an event or activity myself I always feel that if in exchange for giving up my time, and money, I can come away with having enjoyed myself whilst learning something new then it has been time well spent.  We are all inclined to repeat something if we have gained pleasure from the experience.

The first Ilminster Literary Festival, in 2016, the brain child of Brenda Lake, proved to be a great success. Now in its third year, with a little tweaking as we go along, it is heartening to see that authors are now chomping at the bit to find a place on the programme.

The 2018 Ilminster Literary Festival……. there really is something for everyone……  including veteran quizzers.... as quizmaster I have just put the finishing touches to this year's challenge, to be held at Donyatt VH on May 11th.

SAMARITANS EDUCATION TALKS ARE TOPS

My enthusiasm for the fantastic work that Samaritans does is no secret. Aside from the exceptional commitment of its volunteers, I believe that one of the key reasons that Samaritans is held in such high regard is in the quality of its training, which is second to none.

It is sobering to recognise that young people aged under 25 who are in education are at a much greater risk of suicide than those who are not. We are living in very challenging times when it comes to students who feel under tremendous pressure to achieve. Sadly, suicide is one of the leading causes of death amongst young people; often not helped by negative coverage or the use of social media.  

In order to remain relevant to our modern-day society, Samaritans as an organisation never sits on its laurels, particularly when it comes to the key role it plays in education; something close to my heart in relation to the work I continue to be involved in when it comes to some of our most vulnerable residents. Hence, on a recent weekend 20 of us from across the SW gathered together to consider and review the way in which Samaritans engages with and supports young people in education.

In response to requests for practical support and advice from local communities, there has recently been a shift in emphasis to focus on prevention, and to take a more flexible approach in ways of being involved.

In addition to raising awareness and helping to break down prejudice and the stigma that can exist around mental illness, there is an awareness that building a strong network of support around young people can help to build resilience. Most of all though it is about helping people to cope with the brick bats that life throws at them, and knowing where to go and how to ask for help when it is needed. Samaritans does not offer a ‘one size fits all’ approach. Through its many years of experience Samaritans has developed a number of Outreach initiatives, making themselves available wherever needed. This is done by providing talks and workshops on developing emotional awareness and listening skills, in addition to the valuable support provided to schools and colleges by a trained team of postvention Step-by-Step advisors. There is a wealth of carefully thought out advice and information available to both staff, pupils and their parents. 

It is important for us all to remember that when your back is against the wall Samaritans is there when it is needed most.

01823 288 998 (local charges apply)

116 123 (free to call)

Email: jo@samaritans.org

Visit: 16, Wood Street, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1UN

ILMINSTER LITERARY FESTIVAL

I have always been an avid reader and need no encouragement to get my nose stuck into a good book. On average, I probably plough my way through a book a week; I even rate my holidays by the number of books I get to read. Hence my shock to discover recently that research undertaken in 2017 has revealed that in the UK less than 1 in 4 people have read a book in the last 12 months. A sad reflection of our modern-day society. Thankfully, the increasing popularity of local literary festivals, along with World Book Day, is helping to turn the tide.

As Ilminster gears up for its 3rd annual literary festival it has given me pause for reflection, particularly in relation to the enormous amount of work that goes into pulling it all together. One of the joys, and the challenges, lies in the planning of the programme.

Whilst the attendance of well-established heavy hitting literary figures certainly gains interest and helps to draw in the crowds, the Lit Fest also provides the opportunity for up and coming authors to showcase their latest literary masterpiece.

When it comes to gaining the attention of a local audience across the full spectrum of ages and interests, the BBC’s own mission statement to ‘Inform, Educate and Entertain’, enriching the lives of others, seems most pertinent. That, combined with a little audience participation thrown into the mix, and a bevvy and a bite, is surely the perfect recipe for a successful event. The large number of comments and positive feedback from the last two Lit Fests bears this out. It is a process of engagement with the audience and authors alike, responding to their observations; the selection of appropriate venues to set the scene can play a key part in the final outcome. 

When attending an event or activity myself I always feel that if in exchange for giving up my time, and money, I can come away with having enjoyed myself whilst learning something new then it has been time well spent.  We are all inclined to repeat something if we have gained pleasure from the experience.

The first Ilminster Literary Festival, in 2016, the brain child of Brenda Lake, proved to be a great success. Now in its third year, with a little tweaking as we go along, it is heartening to see that authors are now chomping at the bit to find a place on the programme. 

For 2018, by popular demand, prolific author and playwright Fay Weldon is speaking about her latest novel ‘Death of a She Devil’; and hot on her heels is Martin Bell. A former, soldier, war reporter and Independent MP, Martin’s book ‘War and the Death of News’ reflects on the emergence of ‘fake news’. His own quote, written at the time of the Bosnian war, ‘Everyone’s lying but it doesn’t matter, because no one’s listening’ should be enough to make even hardened sceptics want to sit up and listen.  

This year, along with the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, award winning films ‘Dunkirk’ and ‘Darkest Hour’, have peaked our interest in this aspect of our country’s history. No doubt David Andrews’ reflections on ‘Letters from a WW1 Soldier’, and also Keith Marsh’s talk on his book ‘The Lucky Shilling’, the story of one soldier who did not get rescued at Dunkirk’, will be well-attended events.

On a more light-hearted note, comic poet Rob Barratt, is back by popular demand. His unique combination of word play, song, satire and parody, combined with a wine tasting conducted by local wine expert Ian Gibson, is sure to be a sell-out.
As a professional hotel and restaurant inspector, I am of course looking forward to hearing Alastair Sawday’s account of ‘Travelling Light’. His guides to quirky places to stay provide the perfect antidote to bland, soulless, predictable, chain hotels; the independent travellers’ bible.

For sports enthusiasts, freelance broadcaster and journalist Grahame Lloyd’s talk is appropriately held at Ilminster Cricket Club. Entitled ‘The Six Sixes Revisited’, Grahame celebrates Garry Sobers historic 36 runs off one over in 1968. 

With Spring on the horizon, flower aficionados will want to see what locally grown blooms Georgie Newbery has on offer from Common Farm Flowers. There should be plenty to choose from as she and her team grow up to 250 different varieties of flowers and foliage. Also on offer, is a talk by renowned broadcaster, travel and nature writer Stephen Moss, President of the Somerset Wildlife Trust. In addition to his TV stints on Springwatch, his travels have taken him to all seven continents, so wildlife and nature fans will certainly enjoy this event.

For budding authors, Rachel Godfrey is running a fun and relaxed workshop on the theme ‘Telling Our Stories’, and in addition to all of these exciting events, there is Daisy Waugh talking about how she uses Tarot cards to aid creative thinking, and Dr. John Powell on ‘Why We Love Music’, and its power to alleviate depression, pain and insomnia. 

Ilminster is well known for its love of local theatre, so Brian Freeland’s homage to George Bernard Shaw, ‘Playing the Clown’, along with his humorous, nostalgic look at ‘The View From the Wings’, a behind the scenes look at the unpredictability of live performances, should guarantee a full house at Ilminster’s very own theatre, The Warehouse. Murder and mayhem are also on the cards here when Laurie Graham introduces us to Whitechapel music hall doyenne Miss Dot Allbones who will tell a story of murders most horrible; patrons are requested to abstain from cursing, spitting or giving the bird.
Theatre goers will also enjoy watching Deidre Kinahan’s one-act play, Melody, over a spot of supper at Whielackington Hall. 
Described as ‘utterly hypnotic’, Robert Lloyd Parry takes over Nyanza Lodge for an evening of nocturnal horror on the Suffolk coast in his ‘Oh, Whistle, and I’ll Come to You, My Lad’, and not content with that, it is complemented by ‘The Ash Tree’, a story of witchcraft and vengeance.

Bringing us right back down to earth is Paul Goodwin, author of ‘Forewarned: A Sceptic’s Guide to Prediction’; the perfect subject matter for those wanting some insight into the question he poses in the wake of the Brexit vote and Trump’s surprise election, ‘Is the world becoming more.

Ilminster is also rightly proud of its history and its architecture, so Philip Wilkinson’s look at some of the buildings around the world that never made it past the architect’s drawing board will arouse interest in his latest book, ‘Phantom Architecture’. 

Budding performers can take a turn to read aloud their favourite poems at Ilminster Memory Café, one of several free events, on offer, and children get a look in too, courtesy of Greenfylde School, which is hosting this year’s final of the Poetry Recital Competition; always an exciting and entertaining performance. 

The 2018 Ilminster Literary Festival……. there really is something for everyone…

You can view the full 2018 Ilminster Literary Festival Programme here :
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1uWU76Mf9bhzNJMirjs2pujrQ_YqgfmTv