27 Rotarians regrouped after 'Scatter Week' to
hear about The Friends of the Quantock Hills from Philip Comer.
Phil shared some wonderful photographs as he described the geomorphology of
England's first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. At just 18 by 5
kilometres the area is compact yet packs in a wide variety of flora, fauna and
landscape. The Quantocks are home to about 500 Red Deer, Dormice, Night Jars
and Pied Flycatchers and dozens of Wild Flowers. They are crossed by prehistoric
tracks, have forts from both the bronze and iron ages, Norman Castles and 16th
century Wool tower churches.
The landscape may look natural but in reality is managed, particularly by
grazing and in winter 'swaling' (controlled burning).
The Friends of the Quantock Hills was formed out of opposition to a 1949
government plan to fell much of the ancient woodland and replant with conifers.
In partnership with other bodies and landowners it has been 'keeping a look
out' as parts of the Quantocks have been designated SSSIs., SLAs and more
recently SACs.
Following a range of questions, the meeting moved onto CLUB BUSINESS:
The president expressed further thanks and appreciation for the work behind the
Queen's College Concert
There is a request for club assistance in marshalling a BIBIC event at Taunton
Race Course on Aug 8th. Specific details by email shortly.
95 tickets sold for the speaker dinner on 24th March - hopefully we can sell 25
more.
RC Redon would like firm numbers for the visit in May. If you have not signed
the board or marked it TBC - please confirm intentions (or email M. King) by
next Monday.
The Ball Draw was won by David Janes but his 'J' was a Jack not the Joker so
another Roll Over.
Next Week - 19th March - "Educaid - Miriam from Sierra Leone" is a
PARTNERS' evening. Apologies to Richard Austin (if possible by this Friday).
N.B. 2 people will be assumed unless notified otherwise.
DR Richard A, SF David M.