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of caving in the 1800’s. Their collaboration and work has documented some extraordinary discoveries, and dispelled some out of date theories.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.
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