by Kayleigh Pople | Aug 11, 2023 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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An amazing woman and a massive participant in our community life. Mother, Willow Sculptor, Instructor, House Builder, Church Bell Captain, Horse Expert, and devoted lover of everything to do with Nature.
Sophie will be missed by her family who we are thinking about at this time, but friends will miss her too, as she touched so many hearts.
To remember Sophie (and with permission from her family) we have reconstructed the podcast recorded with Tiggi and Sophie chatting in February 2020.
She died on the 8th of June this year 2023.
We have used some of Sophie’s favourite pieces of music and poetry, (selected by herself for her funeral) and fascinating stories about willow growing around the Somerset levels and its part in our community history. The extraordinary connection of willow to nature, including a living shrine to a passing cat. Sophie survived one of our coldest winters living in a tent with her three young children while she physically built a safe dream ‘Eco home’ for them all.
We will miss the wicker horse standing proudly outside Sophie’s home in Rodney Stoke, but I like to think it gallops alongside her indomitable spirit as they canter on together over the moors of Somerset and beyond.
by TiggiT | Sep 14, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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As Patron of the RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind). Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a passionate advocate for the rights of blind and partially sighted people.
With that in mind we are delighted to re broadcast the podcast we made with Ella Caulfield two years ago. A young lady who became totally blind at the age of just 15.
Her Majesty was also a keen member of the WI. Ella, with her guide dog Rio at her side, joined me recently and told her story of going blind to our local Rodney Stoke and Draycott WI.
A poignant story of loss, courage and enlightenment, supported by the legacy of education led by our greatly missed compassionate Monarch.
by TiggiT | Aug 13, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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This episode is dedicated to the memory of Alison Quill, who was President of the branch from 2019, until her death in April 2022.
Tiggi talks to Natalyia Wills, a member of the local WI since 2015. She is on a mission to bust the myth that the WI is not only ‘Jam and Jerusalem’.
Since 1915 when the first WI was formed in Wales, many resolutions from them have been made directly to Government. They have been influencing on so many important matters since, including social housing, HIV and Aids awareness, and Care Not Custody for Women. Back in the 1970s they were even campaigning on environmental issues.
During the two world wars, the WI organisation started to empower women in rural areas to support the war effort. The organisation went from strength to strength.
Currently the WI has a membership of 220,000. Still the largest and arguably the most powerful women’s group in the UK
by TiggiT | Jul 13, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Having faced a life changing diagnosis and a need to re navigate her life, two and a half years ago, Alison Ironside and her Mother moved from Cornwall to Draycott. They wanted to join a community and ideally buy some land. Bingo! A vineyard came up for sale nearby called PERCH HILL. Boasting a south facing plot on the Mendip hillside, and unbroken views across the Somerset levels to Glastonbury.
With a new horticultural degree under her belt and a giant leap of faith, Alison bought her piece of heaven. As a confessed novice on wines and wine making Alison could not wait to start her new life journey as a bio friendly and carbon neutral grape grower of both exotic and quaffable wines on a minimal scale. And to employ local labour.
Within a short time Covid-19 struck and it seemed Alison’s dream might turn out to be a nightmare instead. Listen to this extraordinary story of a woman’s passion to succeed against all the odds.
“If you can read, you can learn!” A sound message bequeathed to Alison by her late and dearly missed Dad.
by TiggiT | Jun 13, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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I had a real scoop this month. For our Draycott Diaries Jubilee Special, I chat with internationally acclaimed choral conductor, composer and organist Barry Rose OBE.
As resident organist and Master of the Choir at St Paul’s Cathedral in London from 1974, Barry participated in many royal services. These included the 1977 Silver Jubilee and the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981.
Barry’s glittering career started with no qualifications whatsoever, just a love for pipe organ music – practising regularly on a harmonium and the local cinema’s Wurlitzer-type organ to learn his craft. This eventually allowed him to get away from working in an insurance office (much to his Father’s disappointment). A lucky meeting got him an audition for the Royal Academy of Music, and determination and talent did the rest.
We learn that conducting a famous Cathedral choir has its hazards – including flying lampshades. More importantly, how was he allowed to turn his back on the Queen?
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by TiggiT | May 13, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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The romance of an historic steam train, puffing along through the gorgeous Somerset countryside. Children waving as passengers disembark at Draycott Station. Watched from the windows of the Railway Inn opposite. This was the Cheddar Valley Line, later re-named The Strawberry Line due to its delicious cargo of rich, red, ripe and juicy strawberries heading for the dainty plates of royalty and top restaurants. From late Victorian period to the early 60’s as transport needs were ever changing.
As Tiggi chats to local journalist and train enthusiast Harry Mottram, we learn about this iconic section of railway line, sadly stopped on its tracks in the mid 60’s, impacting on the local community. Espionage or a need for modernity? Only time will tell.
Where the tracks once lay and with some tunnels still standing firm, the environment may yet re invent itself as a pathway for nature. Both Tiggi and Harry hope this is the case.
(Strawberry Line Photos courtesy Harry Mottram)
by TiggiT | Apr 14, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Village resident Adam Clark had two passions as a boy, soldiers and trees. As he chats with Tiggi we learn so much from his past experiences. As a student army cadet Adam once organised an expedition in Nepal to the base of Mount Everest. On this trek he met some retired Gurkha soldiers they inspired him with their integrity and fiery spirit.
Adam went on to train as an Officer at Sandhurst, for the Royal Gurkhas Rifles as part of the British Army. He was delighted to be stationed in Nepal for a time, to recruit Gurkhas amongst his military duties. Around 2012 he and his Gurkha regiment were deployed to fight in Afghanistan.
Leaving the army was a tough choice but Adam wanted to start a family and lead a quieter life. A gift from his wife inspired him back to his love of trees and conservation. Putting himself through a myriad of training Adam is now a fully qualified Arborist. Having settled into the village for seven years, Adam and his wife recently bought their own piece of heaven. A plot of land at the top of the Mendip hills. Not the steep hills of Nepal, but close!
ADAM CLARK TREE SERVICES
www.adamclark.arborist.co.uk
07870 982388
by TiggiT | Mar 14, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi and her guide dog Jackie set off three years ago to record stories from a rural village. Many said this wouldn’t work. How very wrong they were.
As a special guest on BBC Radio 4 and other media platforms, growing an international following, the proof is in the listening. Tiggi is convinced she has only scratched the surface of what is possible.
50 episodes on, and now with a production team of six. Celebrate with us and listen to a compilation of favourite clips selected by the Draycott Diaries team. With such a girth of Life Stories and Documentaries, it was a tough choice. We are very proud to have achieved such a powerful audible account from one community. Especially in light of pandemics and current world unrest, coming together has never been more important.
Learning a new craft is never easy. Tiggi and Rob, as the Producer and Series Editor, kick off the show chatting about the ups and downs of making a Podcast. Especially as all face to face contact stopped for over a year during COVID-19 restrictions. How the team battled forward adopting new ways to produce the Diaries remotely.
Join us on our journey looking back over the last three years and what’s next on the horizon for Draycott Diaries.
by TiggiT | Feb 14, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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John Connor is this months podcast guest.
Tiggi learns that every person she chats to on Draycott Diaries have hidden depths, and village resident jet pilot John Connor is one of them. A true biography of extremes.
Thrills of flying at over one thousand miles an hour in the notorious Phantom jet. Aerobatics at incredibly low levels and teaching rookie pilots that wont stop, regardless of the length of runway. Eject or die potentially the only option.
After a dazzling 22 years flying with the RAF, for John commercial flying became a realistic option. Tiggi tries to break code words and meanings between cabin crew and pilots in emergency situations. How badly behaved can passengers become after early morning airport drinking. And most importantly, how robust is a commercial aeroplane today?
After the smell of jet fuel subsides and with mandatory retirement, what next for John? Maybe a gentle form of flying nearer home and much nearer to the ground. A new world of discovery.
by TiggiT | Jan 14, 2022 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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A brand new year and a brand new pantomime for the local community. This month Tiggi hooks up with three members of the local drama group Mendip Players.
Revelations include the debacle of walking on heels for the first time and the perils of business negotiations dressed as a pantomime dame. However, the group have covered a wide variety of genres in their time.
It was surprising to discover how the group was formed almost sixteen years ago. It seems that hidden talent was lurking in the village shadows just waiting to be launched by support and encouragement.
After many years of successful productions for “the seniors” a youth group was formed for “the juniors”.
With sell out shows every time, the group has been able to buy technical equipment and offer support to the local community.
There is nothing amateur about this group of thespians. With pride and friendliness as their mantra, and never taking “you can’t do that” for an answer, performances compete with the West End and repertory theatres.
“Frankenpanto” 3rd, 4th, 5th February 2022
https://www.themendipplayers.co.uk for further information
by TiggiT | Dec 20, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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A woman sets out with her Guide Dog, Jackie, seeking out the true meaning of Christmas in our community, walking the Mendip hills looking for enlightenment.
With food and beverages part of their research, the dynamic duo stumble on, through the wind and rain they tread together with festive spirit in their hearts. Bringing us tips including broken church windows and drowning your Christmas tree. A chance meeting with two pigs and a man in drag all add to the Christmas fun. But questions still remain such as the superiority of the village shop’s nuts?
A blind woman, full of mulled wine and a Labrador needing mince pies …………….”what could possibly go wrong?!”
by TiggiT | Nov 14, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi chatted to Ian Maclachlan (the Draycott Postman) just before he embarked on the race of his life. Raising funds for “Hounds for Heroes”.
Ian left Draycott with hope in his heart, declaring the support of the local community would spur him on in times of self doubt. It transpires that proved the case when he almost quit for reasons you will find out in this recording as he updated Tiggi on his return.
Ian with his friend Chris Hewett were contestants in the 35th Marathon des Sables 2021. Billed as the toughest foot race on earth, with record temperatures this year reaching well above 50 degrees centigrade. The race, situated In southern Morocco, where Ian and Chris had to run 250k across the Sahara desert – equivalent to a London Marathon a day for 7 days. 200 participants started the race. Each runner carrying his/her own backpack with seven days of supplies and limited water, approximately 35kg. Only a few of the runners finished the race. With gruelling temperatures and the unwelcome addition of dysentery, made the already unbearable almost impossible.
Listen to Ian’s story of shocking self discovery, pushing himself to the very edge of human endurance. However, he is already planning his next challenge!
by TiggiT | Oct 14, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Peter Bright, a resident in the beautiful Mendip area of Somerset for many years, is our guest this month.
Peter is a retired Biology Teacher and natural historian with an extensive knowledge of local wildlife. Tiggi asks questions that have come to her mind whilst trudging through the Autumn leaves in her walks on the local hills. Much of this episode considers both human and animal responses as Somerset prepares for winter. It touches on historic cider making and looks forward to the Somerset tradition of Wassailing in the New Year.
With the poem “Autumn” read by Sophie Barham and the anticipation of mulled cider. Grab your blanket and pull up your favourite chair as we cast you into the season of red, yellow and gold.
by KevinS | Sep 28, 2021 | Episodes, Main, Talk Local
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It’s Raining Men
Tiggi and Kayleigh have been on a Somerset binge this month covering life changing topics including what to wear if unexpected visitors drop from the sky.
Guests include Emily Ellis an inspiring local Zumba instructor. Ian MacLachlan the local postman about to run across the Sahara desert. And a group of committed Somerset ladies debate local slang words and their preferred strength of Cheddar cheese.
Sam Kail-Dyke supplies the music for this episode. A brilliant young composer from Cheddar with a bright future ahead. As part of a new, as yet unheard, composition for brass instruments. He has chosen”Talking Local” to premiere his work.
Recorded remotely Kayleigh reveals that with country broadcasting, wearing your apron is totally acceptable.
by TiggiT | Sep 20, 2021 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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AS A VILLAGE LETS SUPPORT THE COURAGE OF OUR POSTMAN AS HE HAS SUPPORTED US THROUGHOUT COVID AND BEYOND.
From 1st to 11th October 2021, our much beloved Postman Ian Maclachlan, will begin the toughest delivery of his life …………… 250 km. Not around our beautiful Somerset village, but across the Sahara Desert !
Billed as “The Toughest Footrace on Earth” it’s equivalent to a marathon a day for 7 days, in extreme conditions. He will carry his 7 days of rations and bedding on his back.
Ian tells Tiggi about the race, its challenges and the charity he is raising funds for – “Hounds for Heroes” and how donations can be made.
by TiggiT | Sep 13, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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A Draycott resident of nearly 30 years and active in both the local Church and the Parish Council, Dr Richard Dingley OBE, KStJ is at the centre of the community. Although few people know about his fascinating past.
Fresh from medical school in the 50’s he joined the RAF. Stationed in Singapore, he acted as a Parachuting Doctor, dropped into the Malayan jungle to support the Special Operations team on the ground. His life passion has always been working in remote places across the world, treating eye conditions and supporting the blind. Wherever he travelled his young family came too. Even driving up terrifying mountain roads in rustic vehicles, adapted as eye clinics, to remote places in Borneo. With his wife Sylvia they set up a group to climb Mount Kinabalu. All the climbers were blind, but with support, they made it to the top. A climb of 13,435 ft leaving the sighted support team exhausted and way behind.
Living in a house with no windows, snakes and monkeys were regular visitors to the family home in North Borneo. Sharing his memories with Tiggi, the stories keep on coming. However, at its heart is a story of compassion and bravery.
Awarded an MBE for his charitable work and the honour of becoming a Knight of St John, Dr Dingley’s family arranged a very special Birthday surprise this year just in front of the Draycott Memorial Hall which led to the amusing disturbance of an exercise class nearby!
by TiggiT | Aug 26, 2021 | Episodes, Main, Talk Local
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A Pound in the Head is a Coin well spent!
Labradors, mistakenly identified and old Somerset words are served up on this months Draycott Diaries Unplugged. Showcasing music from Axbridge composer and musician Clara Mann and talking local to Draycott’s newest entrepreneur Clare Love-Jones. With sandwiches entangled in microphone leads and presenters dribbling chocolate, this is an episode not to be missed!
by TiggiT | Aug 13, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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A resident of Draycott for many years, Martin Grass heads up the Mendip Cave Rescue team as their Chairman. His passion has always been Caving and Geology.
The Mendip Hills in Somerset are famous for their unique combination of sandstone and limestone. They are undoubtedly the custodians of countless undiscovered secrets.
After visiting Wells museum in Somerset, founded by Herbert Balch, the father of Mendip caving. Tiggi was keen to find out more about both Herbert Balch and William Boyd Dawkins. Both lived Wells and were pioneers of caving in the 1800’s. Their collaboration and work has documented some extraordinary discoveries, and dispelled some out of date theories. With Darwin on the scene, their discoveries supported a new look at the world, with evidence kept safe under the earth for millennia.
Space exploration attempts to give us the first human to step out on new turf, but costs billions. Martin happily recounts the time he was one of 6 people to discover a new cave. They christened it “The Frozen Deep” and it only cost a few quid in petrol!
Martin has been involved in countless rescues, including some high profile cases such as the Thailand footballers in 2018.
With celebrities in tow deep underground, Martin has acquired a neutral respect for politicians and church members alike.
A journey through geological history will get you thinking the next time you are “Out on the Hill”. What might be happening underneath your feet?
by TiggiT | Jul 27, 2021 | Episodes, Main, Talk Local
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For this brand new trail blazing episode of ‘TalkLocal’, Tiggi and Kayleigh, are joined by new entrepreneur Joy Sindry of ‘Chasing Rainbows’. Stories shared Include painting over valuable antiques. But the ensemble agree, positivity, humour and coffee are the way forward.
You will learn about the recent sighting of the ‘Beast of Draycott‘ and the challenges of dressing up as a Bee!
‘Showcase Local’ spins an exciting new disc from Hugh Trethowan. “A Lidl Love Song”. Love found in store at a bargain price!
Enjoy!
by TiggiT | Jul 24, 2021 | Episodes, Main, Talk Local
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In this ‘unplugged’ episode from the much loved Draycot Diaries life stories series. You find out the true story behind a new idea. ‘Talking Local’ ‘Supporting Local’.
How does it work? How will it work? Tiggi and Co-Presenter Kayleigh sling ideas around like creative confetti. With two snoring guide dogs at their feet. A very feint programme outline emerges.
Hearing two professional women making semblance from chaos. Chaos or Chemistry? You decide!
by TiggiT | Jul 13, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Nick Boyd LOVES Bees! A long time resident of Draycott. Nick is an active member of the Wedmore and Cheddar Bee Keepers Association and has an apiary containing about 80,000 bees in each of his 6 hives.
See a short video of Tiggi looking for the Queen Bee with Nick by clicking here
Tiggi was overwhelmed by Nicks extensive knowledge. As they chatted looking out at his beautiful wild flower meadow, she realised just how complex bee keeping is and how vital this process is to support our environment. Up to 75% of our trees and plants would perish without the fertilisation process provided by bees. Nick explains that not all bees store honey and there are over 200 different varieties of bees in this country alone.
An exciting challenge for Tiggi came at the end of their chat. Wearing full BPE (bee protective equipment). Tiggi got up close and personal with many thousands of hard working bees. As a blind woman the joy of being surrounding by bees is an experience she will never forget! Jackie, her guide dog, was not so keen!
by TiggiT | Jun 13, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tim Haselden is Development Officer for the Mendip Hills AONB, responsible for an area covering 198 square kilometres – equivalent to 20,000 football pitches.
Set up 50 years ago to protect our surrounding landscapes. AONB stands for “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”
“AONB The Voice of the protected landscape. Naturally beautiful , nationally protected.”
Originally from the Midlands, Tim obtained a degree in Ecology and Geology from Plymouth University. Following his conservation dreams, one of his first professional assignments was back near his home.
Nearly four years ago, Tim, along with his family, moved to the West Country. Here he took up his current role as Development Officer, based at Charterhouse, high on the Mendip hills.
Chatting with Tiggi, Tim explains exactly who is involved in his team, how the organisation is funded and his vision moving forward.
by TiggiT | May 14, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi chats to long time residents of Rodney Stoke, Colin and Jo Symes. They relate wonderful stories from their past, including their participation in the “Maurice Symes Dance Band”. However, their life time passion has always been around the village Church of St Leonards and the community that surrounds it in Rodney Stoke, Somerset. Both were bell ringers and Colin held the position of Bell Captain for many years.
St Leonards Church was built in 1175 with the bell tower added in the 1400’s. In 1664 the bell frame, made of oak and housing a peel of 4 bells, was added. This still exists today, having lasted through the reigns of 40 Kings and Queens and the Commonwealth. The bells have rung with messages of joy, warning, celebration and sadness throughout this time. They will no doubt continue to ring for many generations to come.
by TiggiT | Apr 13, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Kirk Purnell moved to Draycott from Bristol three years ago. His job is Director of Teaching and Learning Assessment based at Wiltshire College.
During the first lock down and with a space for his own personal learning, an extraordinary skill came to his consciousness which he had been totally unaware of. Inspired by a photographer friend who introduced Kirk to the minute detail and delight of wildlife nearby his home, he used his savings to invest in a good camera and his new life journey began.
Suddenly the world of flora and fauna looked totally new to Kirk. However, the fact he was an instinctively gifted photographer came as an even bigger surprise. His talents have been spotted by the media and he enjoys a large following on Instagram. #photogra_pea
Who knows what his future holds?
by TiggiT | Mar 13, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi chats with friend and professional colleague Margie Cooper, Antiques Specialist on the BBC’s “Antiques Roadshow” and latterly “Antiques Road Trip”.
Two professionals connected by a common cause. Their responsibilities were very different though.
Margie, selecting Antiques for filming, and Tiggi, as Events Manager, orchestrating up to six thousand visitors to the show.
Feeling uniquely privileged to work on a National Treasure, they give a genuine peek behind the scenes.
by TiggiT | Feb 13, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Robert Nurden, a journalist for over 25 years with the Independent, Telegraph and Guardian newspapers, has written a fascinating book all about his grandfather, Stanley James.
In 1916 Stanley and family lived in Rodney Stoke in Somerset. Living off the land was a harsh existence, but still, happy memories were made.
It seems Stanley was a total romantic, rejecting his Father’s wishes of following him into the ministry. Instead, he opted for a more maverick lifestyle, including travelling to Canada and becoming a cowboy.
Stanley died in 1951, having packed his life with various controversial projects that often led to trouble.
As Robert was about to finish his book, he discovered some very disturbing documents about Stanley. Every family has its secrets as this life story proves.
by TiggiT | Jan 17, 2021 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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As part of our retrospective series we look back to a sunny day in 2019 when Tiggi chatted to the Rev Stuart Burns.
He revealed a fascinating life story.
Born in South Africa during turbulent times of apartheid, Stuart witnessed brutality at close range. This ignited his desire to serve God and use his faith in constructive ways. However, in every life story there are ups and downs which he candidly talks about in this episode. Stuart has continued, through his ministry to care and work tirelessly for every community he has been called to serve. Most recently our community of Cheddar, Rodney Stoke and Draycott.
A busy man with compassion at his heart
by TiggiT | Dec 18, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi chats to Santa!
What is Christmas going to be like for him in 2020?
by TiggiT | Nov 21, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Gerald Dally, alongside his daughter Maria, surprises and enlightens Tiggi with tales from the past about the Somerset village of Draycott. They look back at a community that has quadrupled in size since he was a small boy.
Gerald talks candidly about his school days and a successful career as a vegetable and strawberry farmer, with trophies to prove it.
Tiggi asks about comparisons with the village in wartime and Covid-19. What are the effects on this small community?
From charabancs and village fairs, to crashing spitfires on Draycott Moor. This is a story every villager can enjoy. It gives our wider audience a true glimpse into Somerset village life.
by TiggiT | Nov 6, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Tiggi takes a retrospective look at our community shop one year on. With personal loss, exhilaration & challenges at its core.
2020 saw lots of early excitement, but then lockdown hit us for the first time.
This is the story of a community who came together in a crisis and have learnt to go forward with a new understanding.
by TiggiT | Oct 14, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Thea Oliver chats to Tiggi over coffee about her recent and massive achievement.
A resident of Draycott for many years, Thea has brought up a large family. To this day she continues to work hard for her family and as a nurse practitioner.
With a strong religious faith and values from birth, Thea has always supported her community and the clergy. This has included acting as a lay worship assistant at churches in Cheddar, Rodney Stoke and St Peters in Draycott. More recently and after months of arduous theologian study, she has been ordained. Wearing her new clerical collar, a symbol of her devotion to God, “Putting her head above the parapet” literally!
An enlightening life story of love and courage.
by TiggiT | Sep 14, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Will Ewens is the new Head Teacher of both Draycott & Rodney Stoke First School and Shipham First School. Two rural places of learning for young children. Both schools with a history of excellence and their locations surrounded by Somerset’s beautiful Mendip hills. Will, a Somerset resident from birth, has already faced many challenges since he began his post only ten months ago. Soon after he started, Covid-19 struck with all the complexities of Government guidelines surrounding education.
This podcast, recorded a month before the children returned to school after a break of six months. Will tells Tiggi about his hopes and aspirations for all the children and staff under his care. Highlighting what a privilege this role will bring. Supporting families and enabling children to go forward in their life journey’s with excellent values. Will is passionate about children, community and the gift of education. Keeping an open door policy for everybody he works with, including parents, helping to form the new global citizens of our future.
by TiggiT | Aug 13, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Helen Dance is one of the pillars of the communities of Draycott and Rodney Stoke. An experienced volunteer with CAM (Citizens Advice Mendip), Clerk of the Card Trust, Editor of the Parish newsletter and owner of 2 raucous parrots.
She reveals a fascinating and surprising tale of John and Joseph Card. In the early 1700’s they left an amazingly generous legacy to the village in the form of land. Then along came Reverend Cobley, who also left a substantial legacy to support children being sent to work in the local lead mines. Now combined as an established charity, this fund, to this day, supports members of the community in financial need, such as education and pensions. However, with the onset of Covid-19, the need for support has increased and the philanthropic gesture from two brothers and a vicar, who died over a hundred years ago, carry on to this day.
Also in this podcast, Helen clarifies the present role of CA Mendip, which now operates an on-line and telephone service during the pandemic. She also describes, as editor, how a simple Parish newsletter can impact so positively for the 625 households on the community. A busy woman!
by TiggiT | Jul 13, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi and Ella chat about their guide dogs Jackie and Rio. How their lives have become enriched with assistance from their canine pals. However, the road to enlightenment never runs completely smoothly!
A gentle and amusing conversation between two friends sharing in the joys and tribulations of life with sight loss and unpredictable dogs.
by TiggiT | Jun 21, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Lori Tomms, Landlady of The Strawberry Special, describes their recent renovations, all geared to safeguarding customers and staff alike.
Everything is directed toward the doors re-opening as soon as the Government says GO!
by TiggiT | Jun 14, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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This is a very moving life story.
Ella Caulfield is an extraordinary young lady.
Living with partial sight loss as a child growing up was a massive challenge. In 2015 fate administered another bitter blow.
Ella has encountered many extreme challenges throughout her young life. However, a new friend Rio, her guide dog, has joined her family and support group.
Ella gave me the privilege of listening to her life story.
At only 20 years old and against all the odds her future looks bright!
by TiggiT | Jun 11, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Tiggi catches Chris Seager on the move for a catch up.
Seagers are facing the limitations of Brexit, a wet February, followed by arguably the hottest months of April and May on record.
To top everything, along came Covid-19 with the massive restrictions enforced by government. How are they coping right now?
by TiggiT | Jun 7, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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After what was arguably the hottest May on record, Tiggi talks to local natural historian, Peter Bright. She learns about the impact of Covid-19 on flora and fauna, and the effect it has had on our wildlife.
by TiggiT | May 31, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Mary Woodhouse a Draycott resident for over 70 years, tells Tiggi how isolation really feels.
by TiggiT | May 24, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Tiggi talks to Elaine Reynolds, Trustee of the Cheddar Valley Foodbank about the increased need for donated food.
In these troubled times, the community are still amazingly generous.
Tiggi finds out how it all started and what it means to some people.
by TiggiT | May 17, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Tiggi talks to Dot Prince, a Draycott resident about her work in the NHS.
Dot explains that everyone at the Weston-Super-Mare hospital are working as a team to fight the Covid-19 pandemic. All combined with a large dose of compassion.
by TiggiT | May 14, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Chloe is one of the top 20 British hat designers. Awarded this lofty title thanks to her ethical approach to making hats.
Tiggi wants to find out how it all started. From humble beginnings making fascinators for friends weddings, Chloe now designs and makes stylish, sophisticated and beautiful hats. All from reclaimed materials.
With several acclaimed collections under her belt Chloe looks to the future with her new brand ‘Chloe Haywood London’.
A wonderful life story of creative ambition sprinkled with spangly fun!
by TiggiT | May 10, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Emily Syms is a small animal vet. Tiggi talks to her about the impact of COVID-19 on veterinary practices and our pets.
by TiggiT | Apr 29, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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In these troubled times we all want to help. That’s exactly what a group of people have been doing for our NHS and carers.
Tiggi talks to Jan Kinsman about a local group who are sewing to help our heroes. How did it all start? What exactly are they making, and how do they maintain social distancing?
by TiggiT | Apr 17, 2020 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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With the help of technology, Tiggi chats to the Draycott Community Shop committee.
How has the Coronavirus pandemic changed things since the shop opened? In particular, how are they keeping the village supported, as a life line in these dark times!
by TiggiT | Apr 13, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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1917, Star Wars and James Bond. Just a few of the feature films Charlie Adcock and his team at Event Horizon have worked on.
From an early age Charlie wanted to blow things up! Inspired by the gift of a tiny amount of Potassium Nitrate, his life passion began, making explosives bend to his will. Currently he has workshops in Somerset and Cornwall. Life is rarely still these days for Charlie.
After squeezing past a BL 755 cluster bomb in Charlies hallway, Tiggi arrived in the safety of his kitchen. She finds out all about the early years, firing giant fireworks from Cheddar Church, and his most spectacular explosions to date!
by TiggiT | Mar 14, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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This time I chat to Seagers, who are strawberry growers providing some of the highest quality fruit in Draycott.
Father and son combo, Andrew and Chris, talk about :-
- their strawberries
- the use of bees for pollination
- the ups and downs of farming life.
Most importantly they tell me what community means to them.
I am also astounded by the revelation that they once had a surprise visitor to the village – but not in human form!
by TiggiT | Feb 13, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Willow is synonymous with the Somerset levels and Draycott Moor.
Sophie Courtiour is by definition a willow artist, but Tiggi finds out she is so much more.
A single mother who built her own eco home, surviving artic weather living in a tent during the build. Having no art training but needing an income, Sophie made hurdles in hazel, which lead to willow.
This is a story of courage, love and hidden talent.
by TiggiT | Jan 13, 2020 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Lori Toms, co-proprietor of the Strawberry Special, an old
country pub full of ghosts and history. The beating heart
of Draycott.
Lori left a high-flying job in America, following her heart
to Somerset after a chance meeting with a dark Welshman.
There was no going back!
by TiggiT | Dec 20, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi re-visits some of the contributors she chatted to earlier this year, asking them about their fantasy Christmas.
With interesting celebrity mystery guests and stockings full of sloppy food, their answers make a festive and filling Christmas special!
by TiggiT | Nov 12, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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A funny, informative and slightly bonkers look at life in a Choir!
Kate Lynch is a Musical Gem!
Choir Director and Vocal Coach in Draycott, as well as Director of Cheddar Valley Voices. A total of four choirs made up of both children and adults from across the local area.
Tiggi, as a founder member in the Adult choir, chats to Kate about the ups and downs of singing and Kate’s new role as a Musical Director.
by TiggiT | Oct 23, 2019 | Documentaries, Episodes, Latest
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Draycott sits in the middle of the countryside with only one shop to service the community. A lifeline. Recently the shop was threatened with closure until a group of philanthropic residents set out to save it.
On December 1st the store will become ‘The Draycott Community Shop’.
Run by village volunteers and financial good-will, the shop is saved! However, a massive undertaking is in process with the renovations.
Draycott Diaries Documentaries will be following this incredible endeavour. The first segment hears from the individuals making the impossible, possible!
by TiggiT | Oct 14, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Rob Perkins, owner and publisher of Valley Life is a journalist with more than 35 years experience on local, regional and national newspapers.
Decrying the loss of real journalism in big corporate newspaper groups, Rob believes that local publications still have an important role to play in informing local people and putting businesses in touch with potential customers.
Valley Life is now in its third year and with more than 30 issues behind it, he believes that it is now a real part of the community and here to stay.
He talks to Tiggi about his career from national newspapers to his hyper-local publication.
by TiggiT | Sep 23, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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A behind the scenes look at the life of a rural Priest. Reverent Stuart Burns, the Vicar of Draycott, by definition is at the epicentre of the community. As Tiggi chats to Stuart she begins to find out more, focusing on his past and discovering why he felt called to serve God. Born to politically aware parents in South Africa at the height of Apartheid and as supporters of the human rights activist Desmond Tutu, Stuart often witnessed violence and brutality. As a student he lost his faith but eventually it returned and he became ordained. As a new Priest he presided at many funerals of people he knew caught up in conflict. Now married with a young family, life in South Africa became untenable. 20 years ago he moved to the UK and his story continues with the ups and downs of faith, community and the Church in current turbulent times. On a lighter side we find out Stuart is an accomplished cook and loves a TV thriller with a homemade curry!
by TiggiT | Aug 19, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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On the hottest day of the year, Tiggi chats to the Draycott Bowler Hatted Postman, Ian MacLauchlan. His story is fascinating. Having left South Africa during political unrest, he moved his family to the UK, and has had a myriad of jobs, including serving in the military, teaching sports, as a bank manager and most recently in the Post Office. Having worked in massive postal sorting offices across the country, his dream was to serve as a Postie in a sleepy rural country village and Draycott became his permanent patch. Ian admits to side stepping larger career opportunities to follow his dreams of serving community and to set up the animal charity ‘Hounds for Heroes’. The charity trains dogs to support veterans with both physical and mental health challenges. With his endless high energy level Ian’s hobbies, all sports based, include international bog snorkelling! A funny, poignant episode highlighting that success and personal satisfaction comes in many forms.
by TiggiT | Aug 1, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi and Jackie, her guide dog, both love horses, so were overjoyed to spend the afternoon with Julia Garrett, the Draycott Saddler. Julia’s family passion for horses, so poignantly described in this episode, is definitely worth a listen.
by TiggiT | Jul 8, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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This episode takes us on a journey with Draycott resident Teresa Wyatt as she tells her story about walking all night through London for nearly thirty miles to heighten awareness about breast cancer and to raise money for the Moonwalk cancer charity. When her legs were tiring, the dawn chorus of bird song, and thoughts of people challenged with brutal cancer treatment, spurred her to the finish line!
by TiggiT | May 30, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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“This Episode is Tiggi’s story. Interviewed by her BBC friend Elaine, Tiggi explains how she came to live in Draycott, and, twenty years on, her reasons for creating this Podcast series Draycott Diaries. During the conversation Tiggi talks candidly about her sight loss, the community that has supported her and about a new life in the making with Jackie her Guide Dog. No need to grab the tissues, it’s all good!”
by TiggiT | May 21, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Tiggi and her guide dog, Jackie, visit Scaddens sheep farm deep in the Mendip hills. An amusing and sometimes poignant story of a committed couple riding the storms of life to carry on a long family tradition.
by TiggiT | May 21, 2019 | Episodes, Latest, Main
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Nyland Manor, a large and sumptuous Georgian style manor house, runs as a successful venue for local events. Tiggi talks to mother and daughter, Rachel and Phoebe. The manor has a fascinating story about its build and the challenges of starting and running a family business. Her guide dog, Jackie, slightly lets the side down by diving into their beautiful heart shaped lake part way through the interview!
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