YOUR PARAGRAPH TEXT Over the years the farm which belonged to Lord Vesty has seen many changes. In the aerial photo from the 1970s you can see a stone building running up through the yard: this was the pig sties, which caught fire from a heat lamp and were no SUMMER I S SUE | J ULY 2 0 2 5 1 0 Dovefest 2025: A Joyful Celebration of World Music Day! DAISY JOHN On Thursday 20th June, Dovecote School was transformed into a buzzing, joyful celebration for World Music Day – and what a day it was! Staff and students embraced the festival spirit in full force, arriving in colourful and creative festival wear. The morning began with a music quiz to get everyone in the mood – a brilliant warm-up as teams worked together to prove their musical know-how. From there, the school was alive with sound during the Music Making Carousel, where tutor groups rotated through the music room to explore instruments, rhythm and creative expression. But the real magic happened in the afternoon, when Dovefest truly came to life! From 1pm to 2.30pm, the school grounds were transformed into a festival field, with music, creativity, games and laughter echoing from every corner. Students had the freedom to roam between activities, trying whatever sparked their interest: A chilled-out zone with therapeutic colouring and bracelet making gave students a calm and mindful space to relax. Outdoor games brought joy and energy: from Giant Jenga to Flamingo Ring Toss Facepainting and glitter tattoos added a sparkly, festival-worthy flair that students (and staff!) couldn't resist. Instrument making under the tree encouraged pure creativity as students built weird and wonderful instruments from recycled materials. The karaoke area was a roaring success – with inflatable microphones, favourite songs and lots of enthusiastic singing. And of course, ice creams and squash were on hand in the library to help everyone stay cool and refreshed in the summer heat. The festival was rounded off with live performances – showcasing the incredible talent and confidence of our students and staff. A fitting finale to a day filled with music, laughter and celebration. Throughout, staff worked to ensure students felt safe, supported and included. The atmosphere was one of true community and celebration. Dovefest 2025 was more than just a fun day – it was a reminder of the power of music to bring people together, lift spirits and create unforgettable memories. Bring on the next one! FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH T RAC E Y LOCKY E R Mum and dad moved into Bowerings Farm in 1963 after they got married. Dad moved from Kent Farm, Shapwick, his family home, and mum from East Huntspill. Bridget, Andrew and myself were brought up on the farm and always made to work! We had everything from ducks, pigs, chickens, cows, beef cattle to, of course, sheep. Farming in our childhood was very manual with the machinery not being as advanced as today. We used to hay make with small bales and it was always great to ride on the top of the load on the way home. Silaging was a time for the farmers to help each other: David Jenkins, Norman Stevens, Gordon Cox and dad would have their own little set up cutting and hauling grass, and Bert Hilburn used to buck rake the grass into the pit. As children we loved harvesting: there were sandwiches, fish and chips and of course ice cream! The only exception was when dad grew potatoes: we would have to follow the tractor collecting bagfuls of potatoes and the weather was always wet! Times were tough but times were fun - we had the greatest childhood. more. The other picture is from the 1980s when dad had a lot more buildings, including the cubicle house and hay barn. Dad had the sheep shed put up in the 1990s to make life easier and more modern, and we have used it ever since. Sadly after dad died we had to give up the farm but Diana and Dominic have made our family home into the most beautiful place. So after 62 years farming in Blacksmiths Lane, I will shortly be moving to my own new shed in Three Trees on Main Road.
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