Next meeting on Thursday 25th February at 7.30 in Pub. There will be a general update on progress. Plans for next work party to be decided

Next work party on Sunday 28th February from 10.30 onwards
Remember we will need lots of help once we are ready for tree planting etc. Come along and get to know the group.

Do come along and join in! Grant application successful. Work on site should start at end of March. For more info contact Debbie on 241756

As has been the tradition in Shepton for as long as anyone can remember “Egg Shackling” again took place on Shrove Tuesday. This year the St. Michael's Youth Group laid on a Pancake Party in the Village Hall with free pancakes for everyone. One slight change in the method of “Shackling” was inaugurated by the Vicar Fr. Geoff in that instead of using the traditional well padded sieve he employed a large pottery bowl. Following what some might call over zealous Shackling, resulting in one egg jumping out of the bowl on to the floor. It is hoped that in future years a return to the tried and tested method will once more be employed, following more detailed information belatedly given to Fr. Geoff.

• Photo Gallery.

Thanks to the devoted hard work of supporters good news has been received in that a substancial grant has been awarded to the Cowleaze Project. The awarded is for a Groundwork/Big Lottery grant of up to £49,999 to spend on getting the project up and running this year.

Thanks to everyone involved, and especially those experts who have given us their time over the rather long drawn out process! When we have got the project on its way, and spent the money, we look forward to thanking everyone in a traditional way, with a celebration. More on Cowleaze Project

Of the 335 questionnaires, one delivered to every house in the village, 135 were completed and returned. The Parish Council are now studying the results with a view to incorporating inhabitant's views and wishes into future plans.

Yeovil District Council who assisted with production of the survey and analysis of the results, commented on the excellent response rate. There are obviously a high proportion of people in Shepton who really care about the future of our village community.
Full report

Photos wanted for our Snow photo Gallery.

Its not the season of goodwill for everyone - Over the Christmas period thieves stole lead from the porches of two houses in Lambrook Road but were foiled by neighbours when they tried to break into a car. Police have been informed, if you have any information that might help the police please contact them on 0845 456 7000. Neighbourhood Watch next meeting 18th January Buttle Close.

It was standing room only when our traditional village Christmas got underway in ernest with the Carol Service held at St Michael's on Christams Eve. The children came out tops again and delighting everyone with their moving un-rehearsed, un-accompanied “Away in a Manger”.

Accompanied by the youth band (who ended up with frozen fingers) and Henry the donkey a good number of intrepid carol singers braved the cold to sing traditional carols outside Buttle Close common room, while the not so hardy watched and joined in from inside. Tea coffee and warm mince pies were served to everyone. Henry the 16 year old donkey, on his best behaviour dressed in his red Christmas outfit was the centre of attraction. Seasonal weather added that extra touch to the occasion. Photo Gallery