“For me, it's a positive movement, an empowering movement which shows people that in reality transitions and transformations depend on us, and on the attitude of each of us. There is no one big thing that's going to change the world or how people live just small actions from each one of us. ” Monica Plcavea - Transition Brasilandia
Events
Taunton Transition Cafe - Monday 11th March
"Taunton Transition - home to growing ideas"
Take time away from planting seeds to come and plan for the up coming Big Dig event and future projects
Big Dig Day – 16th March 2013
We Need You! On 16th March over 200 urban community gardens will be taking part in the Big Dig Day.
The Big Dig Day is all about getting people down to their local
community garden to get growing. Whether you are new to gardening or an
experienced gardener we need your help to make your local community
garden grow.
Renowned gardener,Alys Fowler has been supporting Urban Veg, in Birmingham which is part of the Big Dig project. She believes the Big Dig Day offers a great introduction to gardening and says:
"If you fancy a go at gardening, but are a little unsure how to start, if
you don’t have any dirt of your own or you just want a fun day out
meeting new people, now is the time to get involved with your local
community growing project. The Big Dig wants to recruit as many
volunteers as possible to get the nation growing, so on March 16th
community gardens and growing spaces across the country will be opening
their doors to welcome you in. So go along and find out for yourself and
help make this the biggest ever community food growing day."
Planting up the Old Aviary in Vivary Park – yes, it was a very wet day!
The Big Dig is organized by the charity Sustain – the alliance for
better food and farming and Taunton Transition Town are proud to be a
small part of the national big dig day. There is nothing like freshly
grown vegetables – particularly if it comes from your local park!
There are 3 opportunities of helping out over the weekend of the 16th and 17th March.
Somerset Square, just outside the Brewhouse Theatre – 11am – 1pm – 16th March
The Old Aviary, Vivary Park, top of High Street – 1pm – 4pm – 16th March
Comeytrowe Community Park, end of College Way – 11am – 3pm – 17th March
If you want to volunteer for one or all of the events then please
either contact Vicky Briggs – shuunyanet@gmail.com or go to the Big Dig
website and sign up there – http://www.bigdig.org.uk/taunton/ .
We also have some volunteer opportunities running up to the day. If
you could help hand out some cards about the Big Dig then we would be
very grateful. We will be handing out information:
at the Farmers Market – 7th and 14th March around 11am.
outside the Brewhouse – 9th March at 11am, then on to the High Street about 12 noon.
Comeytrowe shops at 10 am on the 9th March.
If you could lend a hand please contact me Vicky Briggs or just come along.
The Sustainability Show - Sunday 16th June
Something to book for your diaries ... the fantastic Sustainability Show....
The Sustainability Show is the first event in the West
Country dedicated to exhibiting the many ways in which every
individual, family and organisation can contribute to making our lives
greener. Over 100 exhibitors will be on the playing fields behind
Queen’s College.
Don’t expect it to be all green and serious though.
As well as dozens of foods stalls (organic naturally) there will be
cider and ale bars plus live music.
The 2013 Sustainability Show and Taunton Food Fair is now open for Exhibitor Bookings ..... so if you run a local sustainable business or organisation please sign up. Find the contacts on : http://sustainabilityshow.org.uk/contact.html.
News
Transition Free Press
“From the standpoint of Transition as a movement, we feel it’s really
key to have a presence out there, in news stands, in cafes, where people
live their lives. We’ll be reaching people who aren’t already
involved, reaching beyond those early adopters. We feel it could really
galvanise groups that are already going, but also to bring new people
and new energy into the movement”. Jay Tompt, Business Manager for TFP,
And remember the paper cannot function without help... real financial help... however large or small. In a typical Transition manner the whole paper - the printing, contributers, distribution is all been crowdfunded. Please donate, large or small at : https://www.buzzbnk.org/ProjectDetails.aspx?projectId=103
Green Deal in Somerset
Green Deal in Somerset
is a local authority-backed scheme run by CSE that aims to increase the
take-up of Green Deal home-improvement measures such as new heating systems, loft
or wall insulation, secondary glazing and draught-proofing. To get the
ball rolling, free home energy assessments are being offered to
householders in Somerset. These assessments are the
first step in the Green Deal process and normally cost around £175. The previously reported deadline has just been moved, giving householders until Thursday 28 March to apply, and
Tuesday 30 April to complete their claim. Call 0800 082 2234 or see
www.ourgreendeal.net.
Free Water Saving Kit from Wessex Water
Wessex Water have a great offer on at the moment... get a free water saving kit including a shower and toilet save and a handy self audit sheet.
Got to: https://www.wessexwatershop.co.uk/freepack
Inspiration
Lastly a little food inspiration from Tooting's Foodival!
" We need a sustainability ascent action plan rather than an energy descent action plan " Transition Conference Delegate 2012
Events
Cycle the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal - Saturday 29th September
Come and help Sustrans celebrate the opening this year of a new section of cycle path by taking part in a family-friendly ride along the beautiful and tranquil Bridgwater and Taunton Canal on Saturday 29 September.
These escorted rides will begin from both ends of the canal and converge for a picnic along the route (please bring your own picnic!). All riders will then cycle together along the new section of path. From there, you can choose to return to your starting point or ride on to the opposite end of the canal. Depending on the demand there may even be the option of a longer circular ride.
Meet:
Taunton - meet outside the Brewhouse Theatre at 11am
Bridgwater - meet by the Admiral Blake statue, Cornhill at 11 am
The ride will return you to your starting point at about 3.30pm. If you choose to ride the whole length of the canal there is a good rail service between Taunton and Bridgwater.
Contact information is available on the Sustrans website.
The Quakers have for years been supportive of the Transition movement and are leading the way in thoughts towards a sustainable community. This DVD showing of Pam Lunn's inspiring lecture from the Quaker Yearly Meeting in 2011 provides an opportunity to reflect and imagine how the world might be. Out of this Quakers have resolved to become a low carbon sustainable community.
ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE FRAGILE STATE OF THE EARTH?
ARE YOU MOVED TO TAKE ACTION
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HEAR MORE AND SHARE YOUR CONCERNS AND IDEAS?
Out of this Quakers have resolved to become a low carbon sustainable community.
Come to watch the DVD of the talk – not just words but wonderful images- with an opportunity to share your thoughts afterwards
Date/Time:Wednesday 3rd October at 7 p.m.
Venue: Quaker Meeting House, Bath Place,Taunton.
Tea and Light refreshments provided.
No need to book but if you want more information phone John Ainsworth on 01823 275424 or Fran Hicks on 01823 333846 or email ainsworth.john@yahoo.com
Guerilla Gardening - Saturday 6th October
Meet up at the Brewhouse at 10.30 for a session of guerilla gardening and beautifying of the area along the Tone (wherever feasible). We will be:
Picking up litter
Improving neglected borders (if you know anywhere please let us know)
Planting edibles and improving the Childrens' Wood area
If you can spare some plants, seeds, time please come on down and join in...bring gloves and trowels, forks and spades....
Getting Close to Nature - Saturday 6th Oct
Daylight contact prints from Dave Green's
website
Digital photography workshops with professional photographer Dave Green (www.greengallery.co.uk) on Longrun Meadow, Taunton.
The workshop is open to anyone with an interest in photography and wildlife and will focus on the wildlife surrounding the River Tone. You will get to know your camera better, learn more about technical aspects of digital photography such as quality and file size and pick up tips on composition and the use of macro-photography.
There will be an opportunity for you to show your work on the big screen outside The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts centre.
Meeting Place: The timber frame barn on Longrun Meadow
Date: Saturday 6 October
Session 1 _ 10.30am - 1pm (15 places)
Session 2 – 2pm – 4.30pm (15 places)
Places are FREE but booking is recommended
Contact: simon@simonleedicker.co.uk
or Phone/text 07967 756320
Please leave your name contact details and which session you would like to attend. You will need to bring your own digital camera and if you have a tripod please bring it along (there will be some available). Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
This workshop is being run on behalf of Somerset Wildlife Trust as part of the Routes to the River Tone project – connecting people with nature.
Chutfest 2012 @ Barrington Court - Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th Oct
Chutfest gives any producer of home-made chutneys the opportunity to bring their surplus produce to a central point and exchange them for others. If you have lots to spare why not book a table-top pitch and sell your wares.
If you haven't got chutney to sell or swap come along to browse and buy from the fantastic range of top quality local stallholders at the food fair.
The highlight of Chutfest is the chutney making competition. This is open to everyone and is judged by food writer and preserver Vivien Lloyd.
Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park Guerilla Gardening - Thursday 11th Oct
In October, the team will be meeting from 10.30am on Thursday 11th October, from 10.30 till late afternoon. Jean Watson, who set up this team, is keen to get a Friends of Comeytrowe Park group started, and find out how people might like to see this lovely (and quite secret!) bit of land cared for. Might it benefit from some fruit trees? Could there be a regular veg bed? What about herbs for local people to pick and enjoy?
Drop by on that Thursday to add your ideas and energy to the mix. You can contact Jean directly if you would like to be involved in making this something really special – and to check where the park is. Her email is watson.j13@btinternet.com
Apple Day - Saturday 13th Oct
Taunton Transition Town will be holding their annual apple pressing day on Saturday 13th October, outside The Brewhouse from 10.30am - 3pm.
Apples gathered from public land down river at Children’s Wood will be pressed using a traditional, domestic scale apple press. The fresh juice will be available for anyone passing by to sample, and those wanting to roll their sleeves up to help with the pressing are more than welcome. The group also invites anyone with windfalls of their own to bring them along and turn them into juice to take home.
This year, Taunton Transition Town are teaming up with Somerset Wildlife Trust which is doing a community consultation into how areas along the waterways in Taunton can become a wildlife corridor. Apple juice tasters will be invited to visit the public orchard at Children’s Wood, sited downriver between the Tone and the Canal, and share their own ideas on how the area might become more wildlife friendly.
To make their journey easier, a Bicycle Rickshaw will be offering free rides between The Brewhouse and Children's Wood, where visitors can contribute to an ongoing outdoor "Wildlife Draw" with artist Joff Winterhart. Joff will be making instant sketches of wildlife people have seen, or would like to see along the River Tone.
There will also be activities to highlight the importance creating habitats for bees and other pollinating insects to make sure Taunton stays fruitful, including your chance to take home some "bee friendly" wild flower seeds.
Transition Energy Event - Saturday 20th Oct
Our Energy Future From Fossil Fuels to Renewable Energy
Venue: The Genesis Centre, Somerset College, Wellington Road, Taunton
Date/Time: Saturday 20th October 2012, 2pm – 8pm
Part One: 2pm – 4.45pm Where are we now and where are we going?
A chance to connect with a range of renewable energy projects in our region and to develop our skills at future scenario thinking.
Presentations from: Rooftop Consulting, Brendon Energy, Centre for Sustainable Energy, Frack Free Somerset, Solar Century. Christopher Maltin of Organic Power will remind us this is not all about electricity!
Part Two: 5.30pm – 8pm Power Supply, Power Demand, Power Down
Three 20 min talks with Q&A & open forum:
Ian Christie from the Centre for Environmental Strategy, Green Alliance on issues we must resolve for a sustainable energy future
Peter Andrews: Bath & West Community Energy - http://www.bwce.coop/ - Breaking the Mould – Devolved Power
Tessa Munt MP: The Political Dimension – Facing the Electorate, Facing Down Vested Interests
Transition Somerset, an unincorporated association, is grateful to the Diocese of Bath & Wells, Wedmore Green Group, Transition Towns: Athelney, Langport, Taunton, Glastonbury and the Wessex Reinvestment Trust for support in making this event happen.
Cost: Part One (only): £5
Part Two (only): £5
Whole event (1 & 2): £8
Booking essential as places limited.
To book: email: s.mewes@virgin.net
(Phone enquiries: 01823 490270 text 07771 561398)
Cheques to Wedmore Green Group, Lands End Farm House, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4QU
Exeter University Transition Project
Learning from Each Other
Transition Workshop - Saturday 20th Oct
Transition Exeter are running this excellent workshop for Transitioners....
Venue: Sidwell St Methodist Church, Exeter
Time: 10.00 - 4.00pm
What makes a Transition group effective?
What issues are Transition groups facing?
An opportunity for Transitioners from different groups to get together, and share what works and what hasn't worked.
Learn, Plan and Collaborate
The workshop is facilitated by Gill Wyatt, who has been involved with different Transition groups for over 3 years. She also runs Creating Synergies, which provides facilitation, research and coaching to communities and other groups.
Home-cooked Lunch provided!
Suggested donation £3 towards costs
Details and booking J.Pollard@exeter.ac.uk or 01647 24789
Taunton Transition Cafe - Monday 22nd Oct
"Taunton Transition - home to growing ideas"
We have changed the time that we meet up folks! Instead of the monthly Saturday meeting we have instead plumped for a Monday.... the first being 22nd October. There will still be regular events and films so do keep in touch.
Transition Minehead and Alcombe Energy Saving Centre
On Saturday, 29th September
Transition Minehead and Alcombe are opening a new energy saving centre
in Minehead Co-op car park. It will be open on Thursdays and Saturdays
from 10am to 2pm, staffed by trained volunteers who will give
information and guidance on how to reduce energy bills. As these
continue to increase we want to ensure that people have up to date
knowledge of all the schemes that help us improve the energy efficiency
of our homes, install renewable energy technologies that produce
electricity or heat, and find cheaper sources of energy. We can let you
have an energy monitor on loan and put you in touch with people who have
carried out home improvements to find out how effective these are.
The
situation is changing this autumn with the introduction of new
opportunities for financial help while existing funding is coming to an
end. Anyone who has not installed loft and cavity wall insulation or
taken advantage of the free draughtproofing will find that the costs
will soon increase. The new funding will focus on properties that have
previously been seen as “hard to treat”, with lofts that need different
types of insulation, solid walls and leaky door and windows. It is
called the Green Deal and covers a bigger range of home improvements.
For some people insulation and improved heating systems will still be
free and for others there will be a new system of finance. We can
explain how this works, put you in touch with experts and arrange free
home energy surveys from our volunteers.
On Thursday 4th October,
as part of the low carbon festival, two visiting experts will be
present in the centre to give advice on all aspects of energy
efficiency. To find out more about the centre and home energy surveys
contact Virginia on 01643 703161 or Hester 01643 821768. For telephone
advice you can call the Centre for Sustainable Energy on 0800 082 2234.
Notes from the Taunton Transition "Big Thinky Day"
Taunton Transition Town are delighted to announce the projects and events that will be the focus of their energy and attention for the next 6-12 months. Anyone who would like to get involved in some way with any of these is hugely welcome to join in, whether for a couple of hours, or to help make a longer term project come to fruition.
Please contact Chrissie Godfrey in the first instance by emailing chrissie@visionjuice.com
Transition Chitchat
Firstly, we have decided to move away from our monthly Saturday morning drop-in sessions. We have so many practical projects happening on Saturdays now that we need to free them up! Instead, we will be holding a 6-weekly pot luck supper and chat on Monday evenings at Friends Meeting House, Bath Place, a 6.30 meet for 7.00pm eat. We can warm up stovetop pots and pans of food – and open any bottles that people would like to bring too. This will be a time to check in on any projects we are running, welcome new people who want to get involved, or just have an open house for anyone wanting to drop by and share their own eco news.
The first six dates for this will be:
Mon 22 Oct 2012
Mon 10 Dec 2012
Mon 28 Jan 2013
Mon 11 March 2013
Mon 22 April 2013
Mon 10 June 2013
Food Glorious Food!
We have several food projects on the bubble.
For those of you willing to spare a couple of gardening hours a month, come and join our Guerrilla Gardening teams.
Team A meet outside The Brewhouse at 10.30am on the first Saturday of the month, and help to garden and clear up various public sites along the river, including Somerset Square and Children’s Wood, and in our new herb bed in Vivary Park. To see what has been done so far, take a look at the planters by the path between The Brewhouse and Olio et Farina which this summer have included herbs, tomatoes, beans and squash. Or go to the former aviary site in Vivary Park to see our “edible bed” of herbs, fruits and medicinal plants. The more of us there are, the more corners of Taunton we can turn into little oases of edible loveliness!
Team B meet on the 2nd Saturday of the month in Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park to give some new beds they have created their love and attention. However, for October, the team will be meeting from 10.30am on Thursday 11th October, from 10.30 till late afternoon. Jean Watson, who set up this team, is keen to get a Friends of Comeytrowe Park group started, and find out how people might like to see this lovely (and quite secret!) bit of land cared for. Might it benefit from some fruit trees? Could there be a regular veg bed? What about herbs for local people to pick and enjoy? Drop by on that Thursday to add your ideas and energy to the mix. You can contact Jean directly if you would like to be involved in making this something really special – and to check where the park is. Her email is watson.j13@btinternet.com
Another regular event, our annual Apple Pressing day, is coming up on Saturday 13th October, from 10.30am outside The Brewhouse, using apples that are publicly available in sites such as Children’s Wood. This time we team up with Somerset Wildlife Trust, to help do some community consultation into how people see and use Children’s Wood, and how it can be kept as part of a crucial Living Landscape for the benefit of wildlife and people in the heart of Taunton. We’d love to know your own ideas. You can also bring your own apples for pressing – and something to take the juice away in too!
Horticulturalist Nicky Gibbard has been turning some neglected land near Norton Fitzwarren into an exciting community growing project. Several acres of land, including an allotment site, polytunnels and orchards are being brought back into food production by a small group of volunteers, under Nicky’s direction. Nicky is ready to grow her team and is looking for people who would like to learn about growing vegetables, would like the benefits of having an allotment without the commitment of full upkeep, or simply fancy some company while gardening. In exchange for a morning’s work, volunteers will get the benefit of Nicky’s horticultural expertise, and a share of the produce they grow. Let us know if you have time on Wednesday or Friday mornings and would like to get involved.
We are also working with Nicky to explore how this community project can become more akin to a community supported agriculture scheme. In due course, we will be looking for people in or near Taunton who would like Nicky and her crew to “grow to order” the various vegetables, herbs and fruits they most enjoy. Better than a veg box, you get to say what you like and what you don’t! The commitment will be to pay a regular sum in exchange for a regular share of organic, low food miles goodies. If this sounds up your culinary street, do get in touch and we can keep you posted on how the scheme evolves.
Finally on the food front, we are really interested to start up events that take our seasonal produce and turn it into delicious meals. We are still mulling over whether to have a big one-off “Living Simply” cooking demo event (which could also feature skills such as bike maintenance or knitting), or whether to start with a smaller programme of cooking skill shares (e.g. sourdough bread, fresh pasta, Japanese pickles…..the list will be endless!!). If one or either of these sounds fun to you, do please let us know.
Our Energy Future
Following the work done with our Local Energy Assessment Fund grant at the start of the year, we are ready to take up the reins again to help Taunton’s householders cut their carbon.
Firstly, Transition Somerset is holding the county’s first Transition Energy event at the Genesis Centre, Somerset College, on Saturday 20th October. Featuring presentations from Brendon Energy, Centre for Sustainable Energy, Frack Free Somerset and others, this is a rare chance to come together to discuss real opportunities for powering down Somerset. More info and tickets from s.mewes@virgin.net (and see separate item in this newsletter)
In May 2012 we held our first Green Doors open homes weekend. 15 different locations were opened up for people to come and chat with householders about various eco measures they had taken to improve the energy efficiency of their house. It was brilliant – and it was our first time, so we learned lots too. We will do another one in 2013, this time benefiting from a MUCH longer lead in time! We will be looking for people who would love to share with others the dead neat things they have done in their homes to cut carbon (and their bills). We hope to involve local businesses too, the ones with something to shout about on the eco front that others could learn from. If you would like to help organise next year’s event, or want to find out more about opening up your own home, do get in touch.
There is something undeniably powerful about the capacity for a story to make a difference. In March 2012, we used some of our LEAF funding to make some extraordinary short films intended to encourage people to see their relationship to energy differently. Using a thermal imaging camera, filmmakers Stephen Clarke and Tom Stubbs worked with members of the community to create 6 “Thermalogues”, highly personal and diverse glimpses into a world of visible warmth. We hope to get these screened outdoors at The Brewhouse later this year, and our newest volunteer, Ian McClaren will be using his online skills to get them out into the blogosphere. However, we are keen to do more on the storytelling/filmmaking front. This is a real blank sheet here, but if you are a filmmaker, love storytelling, or work with a community or school group who might like to help us take this onto the next stage, please let us know.
We do in fact own this rather amazing thermal imaging camera, whose primary purpose is to take images of homes to see where the heat is leaking out. We are keen to make this available to the public, but not sure how to do this with our limited capacity! However, we hope to work with our sister group, the Deane Energy Savers, who are trained to do free home energy audits, and maybe offer a service that includes thermal imaging. If you want to greet this winter with the best (unbiased) info on how to make the most of your energy at home, now is a good time to book an appointment – just let us know.
So, plenty to be doing, and plenty to celebrate! We look forward to seeing you over the coming months.
Inspiration
For those of us who did not make it to the Transition Conference this year... here is just a taster!
Because there is so much happening in the next coming months I have created and extra issue for June.
Events
Taunton Transition AGM - Saturday 23rd June
"Taunton Transition - home to growing ideas"
TTT's 3rd ever formal AGM this coming Saturday 23 June, (our usual drop in date) at Friends Meeting House. I suggest we do the AGM bit at about 11.45am and stay for a spot of shared pot-luck picnic lunch afterwards, so bring a little something for the table if you would like.
Any reports mentioned will be provided or collectively created on the day.
Tasty organic food lined up: The Story are bringing quality burgers and sausages from their Chew Valley farm, we'll have a vegetarian tent with wraps, falafels and cream teas, Georgio's sourdough pizzas cooked on-site in his woodfired oven, Naoko's vegan sushi and Tracebridge Sourdough's sticky buns and cakes
Explore the herb field – with a guide, or on a beginner’s treasure hunt
The first screening of Purple Field Productions' new film Ulimi Mchuma Chatu, about farming in rural subsistence communities in Malawi
Have a go at beatboxing, juggling, pottery, pilates, handling a bird of prey or flying on a trapeze
All-day organic bar with ales from Exeter Brewery and Bath Ales, cider from Honey & Rose plus organic wine, spirits and cordials
Marketplace of myriad crafts, organically-raised plants, natural beauty products and locally grown vegetables
Engage with the pressing questions for organic food production, with · Peter Melchett, Policy Director at the Soil Association · Robin Maynard, founder member of Our Forests · Lawrence Woodward, former director of the Organic Research Centre · Harriet Lamb from the Fairtrade Foundation · Charles Dowding, champion of ‘no dig’ gardening · Craig Sams, founder of Green & Black’s · Peter Segger, owner of Britain’s first carbon negative farm
10Radio: community radio for the ten parishes, offering you the chance to play DJ, roving reporter or star singer
A healing area of reiki, shiatsu, aromatherapy, herbalism and homeopathy
Watch demonstrations of chainsaw-carving, compost-toilet-building, stone-sculpting and tincture-making
Art exhibition of paintings, drawings, photographs and sculpture
Music from 7.30pm: Friendly Folk ceilidh band, beatboxers yasSon and Beat6, and Bristol reggae legends Laid Blak
DJs into the night: Halium Hi-fi and Arthur Needlefluff
All profits to · Rosalina’s Balwadi, a small pre-school in Goa · Purple Field Productions, creating educational and humanitarian films for development
Duathalon and Family Fun Day - Sunday 1st July
Weekends are definitely getting packed with events....
Take part in the duathalon (of an indoor row and an outdoor run) organised by the Friends of Longrun Meadow or just come along for a fun packed day of activities.
Venue: Longrun Meadow, between French Weir Park and the back of Somerset College Time: From 10am
Meet up at the Brewhouse at 10.30 for a session of guerilla gardening and beautifying of the area along the Tone (wherever feasible).
We will be:
Picking up litter
Improving neglected borders (if you know anywhere please let us know)
Planting edibles and improving the Childrens' Wood area
If you can spare some plants, seeds, time please come on down and join in...bring gloves and trowels, forks and spades....
Taunton In Bloom - Thursday 12th July
More on the gardening theme as we expand our horizons to help celebrate Taunton In Bloom by planting up the old aviary in Vivary Park.
Thanks to the Taunton In Bloom committee for suggesting this site (no it is not what is shown in the picture, I know) and the parks people for digging the space over already... phew!
We plan to get some planting in there a little earlier to give us a headstart but if anyone can come along on the day to give us a hand planting then we would be grateful. Unfortunately at the moment we have not planned exact times but expect to get planting around 10.30am to maybe 1pm.
The aim is to make use of the sheltered site surrounded by picnic tables to provide a pleasing and a surprisingly edible border. We have a little budget to get it started but would welcome any plants that kind of fit into our theme.... pretty edibles, bee-friendly plants, perennial pretty vegetables (after all this is for Taunton In Bloom), and hardy herbs..
If you would like to get involved then please contact me Vicky Briggs - shuunyanet@gmail.com
Guerilla Gardening in Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park - Saturday 14th July
Your park needs your help and your park can help you! The budget for Parks and Open Spaces has been reduced considerably which means that we can expect to see a deterioration in the appearance of these spaces. Now, we can all sit back and complain, or we can take action.
A few local residents would like to take responsibility for tidying up the Neighboughhood Park at the far end of College Way and Taunton Deane have agreed that we can clear some of the weeds, plant wild flowers, bluebells, primrose, daffodils, etc. to improve the appearance of this lovely wildlife area in our parish. Jean and co have already made great bounds into the clearing areas to encourage new growth and planting up some beautiful foxgloves which for me are the epitome of English countryside.
Now for the bonus. The Deane has also agreed that we can create a large community vegetable/fruit patch at one end of the park and plant a few fruit trees. This would be for the benefit of everyone. Last Saturday we started with the weeding and the building of the first vegetable bed.... We thought we had dug a grave for a giant... you just have to go to Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park to see it!
After some feedback at the Sustainability Show we might change a few things... remember this is an experiment that might not work and we have to be flexible.
Anyway there will be more planting, probably more digging (sorry guys) and more making this local park bonny and beautiful.
Digging starts 10.30am
Meet-up at the park gates at the far end of College Way. Bring gloves and trowels if you have them (and a picnic if you like). Make it a family outing.
Think how much we could achieve if 100 people turned up! Find out more from: Jean Watson Tel: 282413
Incredible Edible Somerset Summer Conference - Saturday 14th July
Unfortunately a clash of diaries here.....
Somerset Community Food will be celebrating the lessons & achievements of the Somerset Land & Food Project, which has taken place over the last three years and the day will be a chance to plan the next steps for Somerset.
Mary Clear - from the Incredible Edible Todmorden site
'If you eat, you're in'
Hear about the The Incredible Edible Revolution, when Mary Clear from Incredible Edible Todmorden share's her town's story that has inspired a worldwide movement in community food growing.
Take part in skillshares and discussions and enjoy a locally grown lunch as well as refreshments throughout the day.
When: Saturday 14th July 2012. Registration from 9.30am. Finishes at 5pm, with afterparty details to be announced.
Cost: £15. Concessionary places are available for £5 for individuals in receipt of state benefits such Job Seekers Allowance.
FFI contact Nicole - nicole.vosper@somersetcommunityfood.org.uk . All information will be confidential. The cost includes a delicious local lunch & refreshments throughout the day.
The 2012 Transition Network Conference - 14th-16th September
Another one for your calendars in the 2012 Transition Network conference
at the Battersea Arts Centre in London. Having been to the 2011 conference I can thoroughly recommend it for great insights, a chance to really get involved and a chance to be amongst people who really care about change in society.
News
Regeneration for Real : on the Ground and in Your Mind
"Reason is the natural order of truth; but imagination is the organ of meaning." C.S. Lewis
Hopefully some of you may have visited some of the events of the Big Green Week in Bristol. I was fortunate enough to get a ticket to hear 3 great innovative thinkers; Tim Smit of the Eden Project, Kevin McCloud of Grand Designs fame and Rob Hopkins of the Transition Network. The topic being the strangely title 'Regeneration for Real'.
Rob as per normal has provided a little review and some recordings of the proceedings which you can find on his enjoyable blog Transition Culture. I fully recommend listening to the inspirational talks from each of the speakers to get the full picture.
Rob Hopkins approached the topic by giving a little resume of what Transition is all about and focusing on the Atmos Project in Totnes where they are using the community to bring a derelict site back into use making it the heart of the community! This really is regeneration for real.
Tim Smit angle on the topic was more in terms of regenerating the mind - inspiring a culture of change and choosing your language carefully - what about aspirational housing rather than affordable or sustainable... building basic housing with few rooms but planning permission to expand... then it is up to the individual to learn how to upgrade their house and learn new skills in the process. His talk was hugely entertaining in that it sprawled over numerous topics which somehow fitted together hence some rather random ideas circulated. One interesting idea he cited was of a Chicago park that was restored where the net outcome of it's regeneration far out-weighed the initial cost. So around the park you found that crime and suicide rates came down, and health improved.
Kevin McCloud picked up on this idea of how to measure the good that can be done in a community by regenerating, planting up and generally making green our environment. He mentioned that as part of his Swindon housing project created by HAB (Happiness, Architecture, Beauty) they planted £40,000 worth of trees and vegetable beds that was worked out to be worth £500,000 - money being the only thing it seems that government can understand. It is pleasing that Kevin McCloud's HAB housing is making great in roads into housing that just might stand a chance of working for the community; it has taken the time to create local stories and narratives that fit people into their community, creating the charming 'fruity streets' and all through local consultation.
You could take away from these 3 great speakers that the future was bright; there were some developers out there truly listening, finally with some much needed shake up of the building regulations by 2016 all new builds would have to be carbon neutral and the Housing and Communities Agency had to make land available at affordable rates.
Cycling Cinema
Just a few pictures of the hugely enjoyable cycling cinema organized by Moving Somerset Forward... if you weren't there come along next year!
Sustainability Show
Hopefully you came along to this hugely entertaining event... did you get your picture taken with the thermal imaging camera and sign yourself up to a free thermal image of your house!
Here are just a few pictures from the day.
A huge thank you to the organizers at Queens College for offering the space at this fun event....
Share A Car
Ever thought about sharing your car with someone else or maybe renting a car up your street well maybe we have found the scheme for you.
From the website www.whipcar.com you can find out if there is someone in your area from
whom you could rent a car or for you to rent out your car. Its such an
obvious thing to do! Good if you only use your car occasionally.
Of course you could also just rent a car by the hour through our very own Co-Cars... conveniently situated by Taunton Deane offices it offers a good deal if you just use a car for the odd trip. www.co-cars.co.uk.
Just one of the great videos using a thermal imaging camera that was produced recently to highlight the use of energy in our everyday live. If you cannot see it try this link.... http://vimeo.com/39041730
Events
Cycle Cinema - Friday 15th June
The Cycle Cinema is back in Taunton for a wonderful, family event.... yes you watch a movie but also you have to pedal to make it work! I heard it was great fun last year and look forward to working up a sweat whilst watching a great film - this year it is the Muppets.
To
take part, simply turn up with your bicycle, lights and something to
sit on at:
Vivary Park bandstand, Taunton – 8.30pm, Fri 15th June
You will then be taken on a short, guided cycle ride to the secret cinema
location.
Unfortunately the weather forecast for Friday is looking a bit dodgy! There is a fair chance they might have to postpone the screenings. If it looks really wet and miserable then you know it will definitely be postponed... Cycling Cinema will be leaving it until Friday morning to let us know... you can either find out on the facebook at - http://www.facebook.com/events/278740068886545/303568063070412/ or on Taunton Transition's website - http://tauntontransition.wordpress.com/
Making it Happen Locally - Saturday 16th June
A Conference on Environmental Sustainability in the lead-up to RIO+20 organised by the Diocese of Bath and Wells and the Justice and Peace Commission of the Diocese of Clifton
16 June 2012 9:30am – 3pm at The Forum, Bath
Just before the world conference in Rio, have a day of celebration and see different approaches to see how we can make things happen. In most parts of the world, how we treat the environment and natural resources determines the quality of life and the life expectancy of local people. The day, which is open to all and is collaboration between the Diocese of Bath and Wells and the Justice and Peace Commission of the Diocese of Clifton, will give us an insight into several “locals” – the UK, Brazil and Zambia - where the Church is showing ways forward for the environment and development. As Dioceses they have a long term interest in both poverty eradication and the environmental crises. Come and be part of a day which includes focus on the Millennium Development Goals and we hope a live link with Brazil.
For bookings contact - sara.gunning@bathwells.anglican.org
The Sustainability Show - Sunday 17th June
After the great success last year we are back at the Sustainability Show this June - 10am-4pm
Out little theme this year is energy and growing... so find out what great deals in energy efficiency you can make, have fun with our thermal camera and see just how small a space you can grow things in. Plus you can find out more about our guerilla-esque gardening adventures!
The Sustainability Show is the first event in the West Country dedicated to exhibiting the many ways in which every individual, family and organisation can contribute to making our lives greener. Over 100 exhibitors will be on the playing fields behind Queen’s College.
The show offers:
info on how to keep bees and make honey
fresh produce from their very own Farmers' Market
local farm cider
live music
special guest Michael Eavis
and my favourite a traditional brewery dray pulled by heavy horses
Guerilla Gardening - Saturday 7th July
Meet up at the Brewhouse at 10.30 for a session of guerilla gardening and beautifying of the area along the Tone (wherever feasible).
We will be:
Picking up litter
Improving neglected borders (if you know anywhere please let us know)
Planting edibles and improving the Childrens' Wood area
If you can spare some plants, seeds, time please come on down and join in...bring gloves and trowels, forks and spades....
Guerilla Gardening in Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park - Saturday 14th July
Your park needs your help and your park can help you! The budget for Parks and Open Spaces has been reduced considerably which means that we can expect to see a deterioration in the appearance of these spaces. Now, we can all sit back and complain, or we can take action.
A few local residents would like to take responsibility for tidying up the Neighboughhood Park at the far end of College Way and Taunton Deane have agreed that we can clear some of the weeds, plant wild flowers, bluebells, primrose, daffodils, etc. to improve the appearance of this lovely wildlife area in our parish. Local residents have already done something similar at Longrun Meadow in Taunton and indeed all over the country.
Now for the bonus. The Deane has also agreed that we can create a large community vegetable/fruit patch at one end of the park and plant a few fruit trees. This would be for the benefit of everyone. Last Saturday we started with the weeding and the building of the first vegetable bed.... We thought we had dug a grave for a giant... you just have to go to Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park to see it!
Anyway there will be more planting, probably more digging (sorry guys) and more making this local park bonny and beautiful.
Digging starts 10.30am
Meet-up at the park gates at the far end of College Way. Bring gloves and trowels if you have them (and a picnic if you like). Make it a family outing.
Think how much we could achieve if 100 people turned up! Find out more from: Jean Watson Tel: 282413
Incredible Edible Somerset Summer Conference - Saturday 14th July
Unfortunately a clash of diaries here.....
Somerset Community Food will be celebrating the lessons & achievements of the Somerset Land & Food Project, which has taken place over the last three years and the day will be a chance to plan the next steps for Somerset.
Mary Clear - from the Incredible Edible Todmorden site
'If you eat, you're in'
Hear about the The Incredible Edible Revolution, when Mary Clear from Incredible Edible Todmorden share's her town's story that has inspired a worldwide movement in community food growing.
Take part in skillshares and discussions and enjoy a locally grown lunch as well as refreshments throughout the day.
When: Saturday 14th July 2012. Registration from 9.30am. Finishes at 5pm, with afterparty details to be announced.
Cost: £15. Concessionary places are available for £5 for individuals in receipt of state benefits such Job Seekers Allowance.
FFI contact Nicole - nicole.vosper@somersetcommunityfood.org.uk . All information will be confidential. The cost includes a delicious local lunch & refreshments throughout the day.
The 2012 Transition Network Conference - 14th-16th September
Another one for your calendars in the 2012 Transition Network conference
at the Battersea Arts Centre in London. Having been to the 2011 conference I can thoroughly recommend it for great insights, a chance to really get involved and a chance to be amongst people who really care about change in society.
News
Taunton Green Doors - 25th-27th May
15 open homes, gardens and events showcasing what people have done to make their houses greener, warmer and cheaper to run.
A huge congratulations to everyone for making our first Green Doors weekend happen! We are getting really positive feedback from visitors to our homes and other events. Thank you to everyone for being up for this experiment. Now we can all let the dust settle for a little while, and then collect together the stories of what happened. Who came, how many, what were they interested in, were there any surprises, what was fun, was wasn't, what might we do the same, what might we do differently (if there is a next time!).
A special thank you to Cara Naden from Langport who worked really hard as part of our LEAF project back in Feb/March to get participants for Green Doors and get all the info in the same place - and then volunteering to help out at venues where there were people on their own. And another special thank you to Graham Farrington for also chumming someone for Sunday afternoon. And a final special thank you to Keith Dicken (a sustainable architect before it was even trendy) who spent his birthday morning giving tours of his home, and his birthday evening giving a fantastic talk at The Brewhouse!
"I am left with a lovely memory of a couple who came to ours, keen to learn more and do more - and when we said maybe you could be in Green Doors yourselves next year, were really excited about it, that they might have achieved things to be proud enough of to want to show them off."
Chrissie Godfrey
For anyone who had a chance to Keith Dicken's retro-fitted 70s home or indeed did not get to see it - there will be plenty of opportunity to catch his work on TV with his "super retrofit" at Broadway which will be televised in the new year in a series called "Britain's Empty Homes". I will keep you all informed closer to the date.
The second month of our guerilla gardening has been a great success....
We managed to plant more veg in Somerset Square - look out for things growing in the most unlikely places. We have cucumber in planters, beans in the shubbery and tomatoes cropping up all over the place.
What is more we have been very lucky in kick-starting the gardening in Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park. Last Saturday some of us trekked out to dig, hoe, plant and weed a couple of sites... the great Jean Watson planted up a little area of woodland with some self-seeded foxgloves... they are going to look fabulous shortly. Whilst a small band of guerilla gardeners built a huge vegetable bed for some precious veg and herbs. The idea for the raised bed was based on a concept developed by Sepp Holzer where you bury some wood in your raised bed which acts firstly for water retention (great for this climate at the moment where it is baking one minute and pouring the next) and secondly, as the wood breaks down, as a medium for fungi growth which is great for the soil.
Feel free to come along and help out with this great community project. Bring plants - vegetables, herbs, wild flowers, bring tools - watering cans, spades, trowels and hoes, but best of all bring yourself and your family.
Support the Steam Coast Trail
As some of you may know, there is a plan for a cycle path in West Somerset to link Minehead with Williton via Blue Anchor and Watchet. This is a Forum 21 project.
This plan needs public support if it is to be given the go-ahead. If you agree that this would be a good thing for West Somerset, please register your support in one of three ways:
On-line at www.westsomerset.gov.uk/online-applications/ The reference number of the application is 3/10/12/003 (enter this in the box then click Search or just search for Blue Anchor) For Commentor type, choose Complainant and for Stance, choose Support.
By Email to planningemail@westsomerset.gov.uk (put Steam Coast Trail as subject)
By writing a letter to Planning Services, West Somerset Council, Killick Way, Williton, Somerset TA4 4QA
This is urgent because the decision will be made in June - hopefully there is time yet to support this fabulous plan.
News from the Centre for Sustainable Energy
CSE have just launched Somerset West Home Energy which is an exciting new scheme acting as a pilot for the forthcoming Green Deal. The scheme is running in West Somerset, Sedgemoor and Taunton Deane Local Authority areas and aims to test some of the principles behind the Green Deal by offering free Energy Performance Certificates and using the results to work out package of Pay-As-You-Save loans and grants for the householders, with a particular focus on solid wall insulation. The scheme's brochure explains options for solid wall insulation and includes a handy list of local contractors. See www.cse.org.uk/swhe for more information and to download the brochure.
Regenerative Agriculture
Now some of you might have heard about Permaculture (working with nature to make a better world for all - http://www.permaculture.org.uk/), well think bigger with Regenerative Agriculture - http://www.regenerativeagriculture.co.uk. The leading permaculturist Aranya is co-ordinating and is working towards farmscale permaculture.... this has huge potential for protecting the soils, improving animal and human welfare, productivity, water management with the aim to reduce oil demands.
Share A Car
Ever thought about sharing your car with someone else or maybe renting a car up your street well maybe we have found the scheme for you.
From the website www.whipcar.com you can find out if there is someone in your area from
whom you could rent a car or for you to rent out your car. Its such an
obvious thing to do! Good if you only use your car occasionally.
Of course you could also just rent a car by the hour through our very own Co-Cars... conveniently situated by Taunton Deane offices it offers a good deal if you just use a car for the odd trip. www.co-cars.co.uk.
Inspiration
For anyone who missed the In Transition 2.0 Film here is a little taster so you can clamor for another showing! Truly inspirational!
Just one of the great videos using a thermal imaging camera that was produced recently to highlight the use of energy in our everyday live. If you cannot see it try this link.... http://vimeo.com/39061079
Events
Taunton Wildlife Week - from 24th May
A quick mention of Taunton Wildlife Week.... a fantastic week packed full of some great walks and talks about wildlife.... look out for the bat walk which is such an experience and the kids will love it!
15 open homes, gardens and events showcasing what people have done
to make their houses greener, warmer and cheaper to run.
From Solar PV to sun tubes, top notch insulation to biofuel heating, ground source heat pumps to compost loos, garden sharing to water conservation,
come and find out what people like you in homes like yours are doing to live more sustainably (and save money too).
Talk to householders about what it was like to have work done.
Get first hand info on how they have cut their bills - and what inspired them to make the changes they did.
Pick up hints and tips, a FREE handbook on living more sustainably, and
info on FREE cavity and loft insulation for ALL Taunton Deane residents
(available at all venues)
PLUS
Visit a back garden bakery and sample different sourdough breads.
See a chicken co-op in action.
Tour Priorswood allotments and a village smallholding.
And there is more.....
And on Saturday 26th, come to The Brewhouse Studio at 6pm to hear architect Keith Dicken talk about retrofitting his (amazing!) 1970s house.
Or come at 7.30pm to see “In Transition 2”, a film about green community initiatives from all over the world. (Both events are by donation).
Or pick up a hard copy from Taunton TIC, The Brewhouse or Sunseed.
We also have a big request for helpers on the day... anyone who could lend a hand would be welcomed. No need for any expertise. If you can spare a few hours over the weekend of 25th to 27th May please contact Chrissie Godfrey: T: 01823 321731 (chrissie@visionjuice.com)
Guerilla Gardening - Saturday 5th June
Meet up at the Brewhouse at 10.30 for a session of guerilla gardening and beautifying of the area along the Tone (wherever feasible).
We will be:
Picking up litter (see further down for a past litter pick)
Improving neglected borders (if you know anywhere please let us know)
Planting edibles and improving the Childrens' Wood area
If you can spare some plants, seeds, time please come on down and join in...bring gloves and trowels, forks and spades....
Comeytrowe Neighbourhood Park - Saturday 9th June
FRIENDS OF COMEYTROWE NEIGHBOURHOOD PARK Your park needs your help and your park can help you You may have noticed that the country is in recession! This means that we are all more hard-up (some people much more than others) and our local Councils have had to slash budgets to avoid increasing our council taxes. The budget for Parks and Open Spaces has been reduced considerably which means that we can expect to see a deterioration in the appearance of these spaces. Now, we can all sit back and complain, or we can take action. A few local residents would like to take responsibility for tidying up the Neighboughhood Park at the far end of College Way and Taunton Deane have agreed that we can clear some of the weeds, plant wild flowers, bluebells, primrose, daffodils, etc. to improve the appearance of this lovely wildlife area in our parish. Local residents have already done something similar at Longrun Meadow in Taunton and indeed all over the country. Now for the bonus. The Deane has also agreed that we can create a large community vegetable/fruit patch at one end of the park and plant a few fruit trees. This would be for the benefit of everyone. If you think this is a good idea, all you have to do is join us for the first weed clearing session at 10.30 a.m. on Saturday 9 June – bring gloves and trowels if you have them (and a picnic if you like). Make it a family outing. Volunteers needed to start digging the vegetable area.
Think how much we could achieve if 100 people turned up! Jean Watson Tel: 282413
Cycle Cinema - Friday 15th June
The Cycle Cinema is back in Taunton for a wonderful, family event.... yes you watch a movie but also you have to pedal to make it work! I heard it was great fun last year and look forward to working up a sweat whilst watching a great film.
If you don't have a Facebook account don't worry .... I will try and post the venue and movie closer to the time....
Somerset's First Cider and Cheese Festival - Saturday 16th June
We at Taunton Transition Town like to promote local produce whenever we can... and what can come more local than cider and cheese. It sounds like it will be a great day of live music, local food and a (cough) cheeselympics.
The 2012 Transition Network Conference - 14th-16th September
Another one for your calendars in the 2012 Transition Network conference
at the Battersea Arts Centre in London. Having been to the 2011 conference I can thoroughly recommend it for great insights, a chance to really get involved and a chance to be amongst people who really care about change in society.
News
Help Create a Cafe
The excellent Common Loaf people from the farmers market are setting up a cafe at Stentwood Farm to open 3 days a week. They are a bit short of tables and chairs and have asked us if we knew or anyone who had any unwanted furniture. They would be grateful for any donations!
A busy gardener has been in action in Somerset Square last month.... our one and only compost champion Bob Rawle has been planting up some wonderful edibles in a prime spot. (You might have seen him in the Somerset County Gazette! or in This is Somerset).
During the meeting on the 19th April Bob offered to do some planting in Somerset Square in front of the Brewhouse. Cyril Rowe from Taunton Deane was happy in principal provided that we didn’t go over the top and took due concern on Health & Safety issues.
Bob has now planted up some surplus thyme plants and a rescued sage and rosemary bush to make a start on a community herb bed in one of the planters in Somerset Square.
Bob has since gained a feverfew plant and some garlic, parsley and chives.... they will be planted pretty soon.
"Ongoing I would like to do a bit more in the area. Perhaps covering some more general vegetables like beans courgettes, squashes and tomato’s. Hopefully we will be able to identify some future site during our litter pick next week."
Bob Rawle
Litter Pick Along the River Tone
A grand bunch of helpers met up on the 5th May to take part in a litter pick along the River Tone....
The intrepid crew step forth
The idea was to identify sites for planting of wild flowers or edibles along the River Tone and at the same time take a little pride in the environment by picking up all that rubbish that appears along our river banks from the Brewhouse down to Childrens' Wood. This was the first of our forays this year in an attempt to bring some edibles to our environment transform some unwanted bits of land into places where people want to be.... the particular focus will be Childrens' Wood but maybe, just maybe this may kick start some other areas!
And this is just some of the rubbish we picked up!
Thanks to everybody who helped.... because it was not only worthwhile - it was strangely fun as well!
Inspiration
Inspiration comes from Portugal this month.... hear about the struggles and innovation that is happening in Portugal and how Transition is helping. This is an interview that Rob Hopkins conducted with Filipa Pimentel who is co-ordinating the networking of the national Transition hubs.
