DILLINGTON HOUSE

THE HYDE WINS TOP RIBA AWARD

2010-05-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

Dillington’s spectacular new building - The Hyde - has just won the 2010 Regional Architecture Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Announced at the Wallace & Gromit studios in Bristol last Wednesday, the Jury Chairman congratulated the visionary development and commented on the relationship of the building with the historic and landscape setting.

The award was received by architects Dan Talkes and Tim Rolt on behalf of Purcell Miller Tritton of King Street, Bristol.

Wayne Bennett, Director of Dillington House, said “The award vindicates the vision for a building of architectural distinction at an important historic location. It is a fantastic addition to Dillington and it will make an important contribution to the work we do.”

The Hyde offers two large studio-style spaces for meetings and courses, a large glazed dining room with colourful works of art, 15 fully-accessible bedrooms with views across the countryside - most of which have private decks for sitting out and relaxing after a difficult day!

The building sports the largest grass roof in Somerset and is approached across a bridge over a sunken courtyard garden with bamboos, a reflecting pool and abstract sculptures.

The building incorporates many eco-features such as solar heating and rainwater harvesting. By using timber from renewable sources the upper part of the building is relatively lightweight and this allows an daring cantilever to fly over the old cider orchard wall.

Wayne Bennett added “Everyone seems to love the contrast between the traditional charm and elegance of the old House and Mews and the dramatic and inspirational spaces offered by The Hyde.”

See Dillington’s website for more or telephone Jacinta Elliott on 01460 258 610 to arrange a visit.

Photo by Dermot Galvin/Arty Media

RARE PERFORMANCE OF ALL BEETHOVEN'S STRING QUARTETS

2010-05-19T02:34:00.000-07:00

As Dillington House prepares for performances of all the Beethoven String Quartets, Wayne Bennett (Director of Dillington) introduces the project and its significance.

A complete performance cycle of the Beethoven quartets is a rare event. The musical preparation is formidable and only quartets who have a serious career under their belts even think about tackling this Everest of the chamber music repertoire outside of the recording studio. To have the opportunity to experience of listening to these works live across the best part of a week is a once in a lifetime opportunity and an opportunity that visits Somerset once in a blue moon.

The Dillington performances will stretch across six evenings with each concert featuring a work from each of the early, middle and late periods. To provide a greater understanding of the works the eminent musicologist, Angus Watson, will give a series of pre-concert talks about the works being performed that evening. Angus is well qualified as his book Beethoven’s Chamber Music in Context will be published later this year.

Listening to a string quartet requires concentration and for some it is an acquired taste. Four musicians playing together, listening and aware of each other’s playing can make for edge of the seat listening. There is no room for error or ego. It is music stripped to the bare essentials. Challenging as it may be for both players and audience alike, for many, the string quartet represents the ideal in small scale music-making where intimacy, skill and musicianship come together as one.

Originating around the middle of the 18th century, the development of the string quartet soon became the touchstone of the classical music period on which most composers were either judged or indeed judged themselves. Joseph Haydn, whilst working in Vienna, is attributed as having developed the form after which Mozart took it to new levels of sophistication. In Beethoven we see a great composer take the string quartet form from its classical incarnation of four separate but related musical lines to a fusion of sound in which the identity of each becomes bonded as one in a profound unity. Here lay the emotional foundations of romanticism.

The eminent conductor, Sir Roger Norrington, in a recent documentary, commented that he always suspected that Mozart composed for Saturday whereas Beethoven wrote music for eternity. We should understand the point. Mozart aims to please whereas you feel that Beethoven is always trying to take you somewhere profound. Through the isolation of his awful and worsening deafness he seems to abandon the everyday in the search for universal human truths.

Beethoven’s quartets can be crudely divided into three groups. The earliest (opus 18) consist of six quartets that owe much to the good-mannered style of Haydn and Mozart. Written between 1798-1800 they have much classical charm and directness. The middle period quartets are characterised by slow introductions and begin to show Beethoven’s departure from the classical style into new territory. The first three were written in 1806 and are known as the Rasumovsky after their dedicatee. The 10th and the 11th quartets are known as the Harp (1809) and Serioso (1810) respectively. In the Late Quartets of 1824 to 1826 we reach one of the greatest achievements of western music. Begun in 1822 when the composer was completely deaf these works are unlike anything before or since. The sonorities daring and the emotional depths extraordinary. They are so profound that the Alberni have quite rightly spread the performances across the week rather than cram the experience in at the end of the week.

To hear these quartets across a single week is a musical adventure of a lifetime. Each concert is a journey in style and content and so is complete in itself. To enjoy the full significance of the Dillington Beethoven String Quartets then get to hear Angus Watson also. You’ll not be disappointed what ever you do.

The Hyde's Architectural Acclaim

2010-05-10T10:42:00.000-07:00

THE HYDE, a stunning £3m conference, arts and education facility at Dillington House, Somerset, has been short-listed for one of the country's top architectural awards.

The Royal Institute of British Architects will announce at Bristol's Aardman Animation HQ on May 19, which of 13 South West projects will scoop the coveted prize.

Sara Burton, RIBA Events and Projects Administrator said: "RIBA awards are given for buildings that have high architectural standards and make a substantial contribution to the local environment.

"They recognise excellence in architecture and are respected worldwide. The awards honour those who commission and build, as well as those who design."

The winner of the regional award is put forward to a national event and potentially the Stirling Prize, screened by Channel 4 in October with Kevin McCloud.

Dillington House, Ilminster, is the South West''s foremost conferencing centre. It is run by Somerset County Council and it also has a national reputation for its excellence as a residential adult education centre.

It's visionary director Wayne Bennett was the moving force behind the ambitious project.

He said: "The scheme was to construct a building of architectural distinction to be alongside the historic buildings at Dillington."

The Hyde, a state of the art facility housing boutique accommodation and two studios costing some three million pounds, was offically opened to universal acclaim in February 2009.

"At Dillington in beautiful South Somerset you can find one of the region’s best places to meet – a place of real quality and refinement," said Mr Bennett.

"Dillington, a former Prime Minister's residence, has long enjoyed a reputation for first class service but it now boasts something that will inspire anyone in the business world. The Hyde - opened its doors to business a year ago and has been wowing users ever since.

"Designed by the Bristol team of Purcell Miller Tritton, The Hyde boasts many surprising features that impress and surprise. For instance there is the deployment of an audacious cantilever which flies one of the studio rooms over the ancient garden wall.

Although you enter at ground level across a wooden bridge it soon becomes apparent that the ground drops sharply away and through large glass windows you are presented with amazing views of the Somerset countryside.

The effect is totally surprising and impressive. In a similarly stylish way, a mirror-pond reflects ripples across the ceiling of the Garden Room which leads to a sunken courtyard resplendent with giant bamboos and contemporary sculpture.

As well as two large meeting rooms and a stunning dining space, the building also incorporates fifteen boutique-style bedrooms many with their own private deck and extensive western views. Free wi-fi throughout is just part of the inclusive service.

The Hyde also has many eco-credentials. It sports perhaps the largest grass roof in Somerset as well as some very efficient solar panels. Much of the building is constructed in sustainably sourced timber and the insulation used consists of compressed wastepaper.

Rainwater is also harvested and is used for watering the gardens. Of course, locating a contemporary building on a historic site was challenging but with English Heritage support it has been ingeniously achieved without detriment to the other important buildings and their vistas.

This new addition adds enormously to the general offer at Dillington where excellence of service and flexibility are the key to its ongoing success.

PMT architect Dan Talkes, who masterminded the project said: "We are delighted that The Hyde has been shortlisted for such a prestigious award.

"We immediately recognised the poetic potential of exploiting the topography of the site. It was built on a steep incline with dramatic views across the sweeping countryside beyond.

"We were very concerned about its relationship with Dillington House, a beautiful building, itself and that it had to announce itself in its own right and yet remain true to the brief, which included sustainability. It also had to provide exceptional accommodation and a learning environment that was inspirational.

"We are very pleased with the result and the fact that RIBA has short-listed The Hyde is fantastic in itself."

For further information go to www.dillington.com or telephone Wayne Bennett on 01460 258 648.

end

THE HYDE - A YEAR ON

2010-03-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

BUILDING projects take a time to get off the ground and timing is everything.

Ask any of the big house construction companies about the recession and they will tell you how the current crisis was not seen at all.

First it was Northern Rock. Then it was Lehman Brothers. Building stopped in its tracks and credit was frozen. Who could have foreseen it?

At Dillington House, near Ilminster, Somerset, the South West's foremost conference venue and adult education centre, the green light was given for a new state of the art building and eventually work began when the crisis was at its deepest in the late naughties.

The scheme was to construct a building of architectural distinction to be alongside the historic buildings at Dillington. The Hyde, a state of the art facility housing boutique accommodation and two studios costing some two million pounds, was offically opened to universal acclaim in February 2009.

The results are impressive but the timing was rubbish admits Wayne Bennett, Director of Dillington House, who recognises that trading conditions have been challenging to say the least.

"It is very difficult to be the Waitrose of the conference scene when some clients are wanting Lidl prices. I accept it is difficult for everyone and so it important that we are as flexible as we can be," said Mr Bennett.

"Dillington is one of the best meeting venues in the South West but real quality cannot be provided at stupidly low prices."

Although it has been a difficult year for everyone, Mr Bennett says things are looking up with Dillington’s forward bookings much stronger than last year.

In business it is often necessary to step back from the day-to-day hurly-burly and look at things strategically; to take stock and think afresh.

At Dillington in beautiful South Somerset you can find one of the region’s best places to meet – a place of real quality and refinement.

Dillington, a former Prime Minister's residence, has long enjoyed a reputation for first class service but it now boasts something that will inspire anyone in the business world. The Hyde - opened its doors to business a year ago and has been wowing users ever since.

Designed by the Bristol team of Purcell Miller Tritton, The Hyde boasts many surprising features that impress and surprise. For instance there is the deployment of an audacious cantilever which flies one of the studio rooms over the ancient garden wall.

This new addition adds enormously to the general offer at Dillington where excellence of service and flexibility are the key to its ongoing success.

Dillington House doesn’t do ordinary or mediocre and The Hyde demonstrates this in spades.

And so confident is Mr Bennett of Dillington and The Hyde's ability to convince newcomers of its excellence he even offers a free lunch to interested parties who telephone to set up a viewing.

ends

For further information go to website at www.dillington.com or telephone Dillington House on 01460 258 648.

ends

2010-01-28T10:02:00.000-08:00

EVER HAD A GREAT IDEA OR FASCINATION FOR IRISH LITERATURE?

Then a couple of residential courses at prestigious Dillington House conference and adult education centre, near Ilminster, Somerset, will, without doubt, satisfy your intrigue.

Enjoy the craic while getting an insight into some of the most important words and ideas of the 20th century.

Sadly you won't be able to attend them both because they run concurrently from Friday 5 February to Sunday 7 February.

But there's always the chance to swap notes after a sumptuous meal and drinks at the foremost meeting place in the south west.

The Modern Irish Literature course will cover a broad range of fiction, drama and poetry since the late 19th century until the present day.

The life and work of writers such as W.B. Yeats, James Joyce, Elizabeth Bowen, Sean O'Casey, Seamus Heaney, Edna O'Brien and Roddy Doyle will be studied in historical and cultural context and will be examined in relation to issues of nation, gender and emigration.

The tutor is author Tony Murray, PhD, MA Cultural Studies, BA (Hons), and Deputy Director of the Irish Studies Centre at London Metropolitan University. He has taught Irish and English Literature for many years and has run the annual Irish Writers in London Summer School since its inception in 1996.

Meanwhile the Great Ideas of the Twentieth Century course, with Dr Derek Tatton, will unpack and openly discuss some of the really important political and cultural themes of the last century.

Through participative discussions, the origins, development and legacy of six ideas or themes will be examined.

Taking the British NHS as an example the group will ask why this feature of The Welfare State has remained a popular great idea despite its origins in socialist principles and why it remains off-limits to all but the most right-wing of critics.

Other subjects will include the development of the mass media and its effects on our ideas of what constitute art and culture; the social impact of science and technology via, for example, the Internet, and lastly ecology and the green movement and the challenge of climate change.

This course is run in association with the Raymond Williams Foundation, a Welsh academic, novelist and critic. An influential figure on the political left, his writings on politics, culture, the mass media and literature remain significant. His work laid the foundations for the academic field of cultural and critical studies.

Residential fees for the course start at £177 per person and include en-suite accommodation, meals and refreshments.

For bookings and further information call Denise Borer on 01460 258613

email: dillington@somerset.gov.uk

www.dillington.com

THE DILLINGTON CIDER HOUSE RULES

2009-12-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

JAMES Crowden, acclaimed author and leading authority on cider, plants the first sapling in Somerset's newest orchard.

Traditional varieties of native apples will form a 36-tree plantation in the old garden of Dillington House, Ilminster.

In a few years the harvest will produce Dillington's very own cider, which will no doubt delight delegates and guests at the South West's foremost residential conference and adult education centre.

Somerset is a county famous for its cider orchards; in 1894 there were over 26,000 acres devoted to the fruit. Many disappeared over the next century, but cider is trendy again and apple-growing is back in favour...and flavour.

The Somerset varieties to be planted are: Tom Putt, the bitter sharp tasting Kingston Black (which is believed to have hailed from Kingston St Mary, near Taunton) and Dabinett, a bitter sweet flavour which came from Mid Lambrook.

The orchard was the idea of Wayne Bennett, Dillington's director, who says: " I'm keen to capitalise on the local distinctiveness of the area and celebrate another of Somerset's array of wonderful food and fruit.

"Dillington has a reputation for excellence including its food, drink and service. Cider is very much in vogue and I thought it would be wonderful to establish our own orchard and very much look forward to tasting a pint of our own cider in a few years time.

" The project has been made possible by a grant from Somerset County Council and the trees being sponsored by local individuals, keen to support the tradition of orchards in the locality. They will each get a bottle of the first cider to be produced."

Mr Bennett added: “I am delighted that James Crowden did us the honour of planting the first tree. James’ new book ‘Ciderland’ celebrates much of what is unique about Somerset and Dillington is very much part of local landscape in the south of the county.”

Mr Crowden said: "Planting an orchard like this is phenomenally important in keeping a fine tradition alive as well as these old Somerset varieties.

"A while ago people buying properties here would dig up their orchards. Now they are planting trees. This area in particular has been associated with cider-making for many centuries."

Somerset cider gained attention recently as neighbouring Julian Temperley was awarded a top prize at the 'Food Oscars' - the BBC Food & Farming Awards.

The award was partly in recognition of the county's long history of cider-making.

The first orchard dates back to the 13th Century and monasteries had good orchards. Current cider-makers are in fact relying on methods discovered 150 years ago.

Somerset is a popular place for cider-making as the climate and soil characteristics are perfect.

For further information please contact Wayne Bennett, director, on 01460 52427 or wbennett@somerset.gov.uk

www.dillington.com

Notes for Editors

Dillington House dates back to the 16th century and was once the west country home of George III’s Prime Minister, Lord North. Since 1949 it has been run by Somerset County Council albeit in recent years on an entirely self-financing basis. The accommodation has been rated as 5-Stars under the English Tourism Council’s ‘campus’ Inspection Scheme and it is the only venue in England to hold this accolade. Today, Dillington marries the world of learning, business and the arts in a unique programme mix.

James Crowden can be contacted at www. james-crowden.co.uk or 01460 30795

pix and words courtesy of Dermot Galvin and prone (www.prone.biz)

DILLINGTON'S NEW DIRECTORIAL TEAM

2009-11-28T06:18:00.000-08:00

Dillington director Wayne Bennett and his new deputy, Helen Chaloner, in an exclusive first picture together as they plot the future success of the South West's premier residential conferencing and adult learning centre.

THE CIDER HOUSE RULES

2009-11-27T06:32:00.000-08:00

A NEW ORCHARD FOR SOMERSET

Sunday November 29th will see author and cider enthusiast, James Crowden, plant the first of 36 apple trees at Dillington House, near Ilminster.

The new orchard is being planted with local Somerset varieties, Tom Putt, Kingston Black and Dabinett and will eventually produce the apples for Dillington’s own special cider.

The orchard is the idea of Dillington’s Director, Wayne Bennett, who is keen to capitalise on the local distinctiveness of the area.

Wayne says: “I am delighted that James Crowden is doing us the honour of planting the first tree. James’ new book ‘Ciderland’ celebrates much of what is unique about Somerset and Dillington is very much part of local landscape in the south of the county.”

The public and press are very welcome to attend.

James Crowden is not just planting the first tree but will also be speaking at Dillington- the south-west's leading conference and residential adult learning centres - about the culture of cider making in a talk starting at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £10 and include a cider tasting, tea and cake afterwards and can reserved on 01460 258 613.

You can buy a signed copy of Ciderland in readiness for Christmas too.

NEW FACE AT DILLINGTON

2009-11-16T03:30:00.000-08:00

DEPUTY DIRECTOR ARRIVES

One of the south-west’s premier meetings venues, Dillington House near Ilminster, has just taken on board a new Deputy Director.

After a stint in London, Helen Chaloner returns to the west country bringing with her a special combination of creativity and business skills.

After initially working for the Burton Group, Helen spent many years in the US before settling in Devon where she was Programme Manager at Dartington Hall.

Then it was off to London where she did a degree in Fine Art after which she worked in management positions in the charitable sector.

Dillington House Director, Wayne Bennett, says ‘Helen’s arrival will significantly strengthen the management team and will reinforce Dillington’s special offer as a unique learning, creative and business environment.

"I know she is excited about returning to the west country where quality of life issues can merge with creativity to make a particularly interesting business environment.’

Notes for Editors

Dillington House dates back to the 16th century and was once the west country home of George III’s Prime Minister, Lord North.

Since 1949 it has been run by Somerset County Council albeit in recent years on an entirely self-financing basis.

The accommodation has been rated as 5-Stars under the English Tourism Council’s ‘campus’ Inspection Scheme and it is the only venue in England to hold this accolade.

Today, Dillington marries the world of learning, business and the arts in a unique programme mix.

FINE WEATHER, FINE TURN OUT AT OPEN DAY

2009-09-14T02:34:00.000-07:00

SCORES of people took the opportunity of a lovely late summer's day to look around Dillington and to explore the House and gardens and history of the House.

Carol Crocker, operations manager, said later: "Open Day was a huge success with seemingly more people than ever before.

"Car parking extended right down to the lake I am told! Weather was key factor of course and although it was cloudy at times the sun did show and the rain stayed away.

"There was a really good buzz about the place and everybody appeared delighted with what they saw."

For many it was the first chance to see The Hyde, a spectacular new contemporary building, offering 2 superb multi-purpose studios as well as 15 boutique style bedrooms.

There was live music and many other attractions throughout the afternoon, including music from The Night Owls and Phoenix Brass.

Taunton Garrison brought the 17th century to life with their living history camp and re-enactment displays.

For the younger visitors David Wright, author of the children’s book series Dickie Duck, acted as a storyteller.

There was also the chance to talk to tutors and take part in a choice of free mini courses on subjects such as painting, family history, literature and writing, and Tai Chi.

OPEN HOUSE AT DILLINGTON

2009-09-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

COME ALONG!

Sunday 6 September 12.00pm - 5.00pm Admission Free

A relaxing afternoon to look around Dillington and to explore the House and gardens and find out about the history of the House. For many this will be the first chance to see The Hyde, a spectacular new contemporary building, offering 2 superb multi-purpose studios as well as 15 boutique style bedrooms.

There will be live music and many other attractions throughout the afternoon, including music from The Night Owls, a four piece band playing hot syncopated ukulele songs and Phoenix Brass. Taunton Garrison will be bringing the 17th century to life with their living history camp and re-enactment displays. For the younger visitors David Wright, author of the children’s book series Dickie Duck, will be acting as a storyteller. UK Llamas will make a welcome return with the promise of a couple of “new arrivals”.

There will be the chance to take part in a choice of free mini courses on subjects such as painting, family history, literature and writing, as well as joining in a session of Tai Chi. Tutors will be on hand to chat about the many courses on offer in the current programme.

Enjoy a BBQ lunch and treat yourself to ice cream or afternoon tea with home-made cakes. Other light snacks and refreshments will be available.

Why not go along and take your friends and family for a great afternoon out!

For more information and a free copy of the Dillington programme of courses and events contact 01460 258648 or see the website www.dillington.com

EXCITING FORTHCOMING MUSICAL EVENTS

2009-07-29T01:35:00.000-07:00

Concert Programme

Dillington House organises a series of public concerts throughout the year. These take place in the Mews Theatre which can seat up to 160 persons. The acoustics are excellent as are the sightlines.

Guitar Festival - Pro Arte Guitar Trio with Guests

Sunday, August 02, 2009

Guitar Festival - HiddenTango

Monday, August 03, 2009

Guitar Festival - Bach, Ballads & Blues

Tuesday, August 04, 2009

Guitar Festival - Groningen Guitar Duo

Wednesday, August 05, 2009

Guitar Festival - Vida Guitar Quartet

Thursday, August 06, 2009

Concert with the Alberni String Quartet

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Piano Recital with Mark Bebbington

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Concert with the Badke Quartet

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Concert Party with Miss Sylvia Griffin & Friends

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Concert with 'The Quartetto di Cremona'

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Two Harpsichords in Concert:Purcell & His World: A Musical Exploration

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Concert with The Navarra String Quartet

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Beethoven – The Complete String Quartets with The Alberni String Quartet

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Jazz Concert with John Law Trio

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Tickets Enquiry – daborer@somerset.gov.uk

WAYNE BENNETT AND VALERIE SINGLETON JOIN FORCES ON LIFELONG LEARNING

2009-07-22T02:28:00.000-07:00

Lifelong Learning Is Good For Your Health - Official

by Wayne Bennett, Director of Dillington House, Somerset - a premier lifelong learning and business conferencing centre.

A GOVERNMENT think-tank recently produced a wide-ranging

study concerning mental health and wellbeing. Sir John Beddington –

the Government’s Chief Scientific Advisor – said that the most important single thing we can do help to maintain a quality of life in older age is

to keep learning. The conclusions were astonishing in claiming that one of the most powerful activities any individual could do to stave off the misery of depression and anxiety – especially in older age - was to keep learning.

Learning allows for an engagement with the world and the great issues that confront us all. It obviously improves our knowledge and widens our horizons in the process. It brings us into contact with other like-minded people and it challenges our own beliefs and opinions. Learning can also give us a deep sense of achievement and this improves our self-esteem and sense of wellbeing.

On July 17, Mr Bennett was at The Retirement Show at London's Olympia to join forces with TV presenter and writer Valerie Singleton, in a seminars organized by Discount-Age on the benefits of continued learning for the over 50s. Valerie, who is a director with Discount-Age, was introduced to a myriad of fascinating educational topics offered by Dillington House when she moved to the West country.

"I couldn't believe this was being offered by a county council-run facility and neither could I believe how beautiful Dillington House was.

"I have signed up for dozens of courses which have opened my eyes to so many news subjects in such a fresh and refreshing way. I'm a convert.

"And the courses were so well attended. I had to make sure I booked early and still missed out on some, which shows the huge demand."

While many similar educational centres are facing cuts backs or even closure, Somerset County Council has backed five-star Dillington's ability to deliver both in learning and business conferencing, by recently investing £2.3 million in a high-tech arts and ecologically-friendly accommodation facility. The Hyde, which, features boutique-style bedrooms and lecture studios overlooking the Somerset countryside is also fully accessible for disabled people.

For further information, interviews or photographs, please call:

Wayne Bennett, Dillington House : 01460 258 648

email: wbennett@somerset.gov.uk

Note for editors: Dillington House is Somerset County Council’s residential centre for professional development, adult education and the arts. Founded in 1949, it has been offering lifelong learning opportunities for nearly sixty years. The arts play an important role in creating the unique ambience which is Dillington. Although Dillington House is wholly part of Somerset County Council it operates without public subsidy and is responsible for meeting all of its costs. The Main House dates back to the 16th century and is one of the most beautiful houses in Somerset and features in Simon Jenkins’ book England’s 1000 Best Houses.

The accommodation is in a range of bedrooms, most of which are en-suite, that are located in the House, the Mews or the Hyde. Dillington House is neither an hotel, college nor simple conference centre. It is uniquely something special at which everything and anything is possible. Standards of service and accommodation are very high and Dillington remains the only establishment to have been awarded 5-stars by the English Tourism Council under their “Campus” quality assessment scheme.

IT'S OFFICIAL; LEARNING IS SERIOUSLY GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH

2009-07-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

Education, education, education...

By Wayne Bennett, Director, Dillington House.

Towards the end of last year, a government think-tank produced a report concerning mental health and wellbeing. It was a wide-ranging study that pulled together evidence from a large number of sources.

The conclusions were astonishing in claiming that one of the most powerful activities any individual could do to stave off the misery of depression and anxiety – especially in older age - was to keep learning.

Indeed, learning throughout life is wonderfully good for us in all sorts of ways. Learning allows for an engagement with the world and the great issues that confront us all.

It obviously improves our knowledge and widens our horizons in the process. It brings us into contact with other like-minded people and it challenges our own beliefs and opinions.

Learning can also give us a deep sense of achievement and this improves our self-esteem and sense of well-being.

When interviewed on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, Sir John Beddington – the Government’s Chief Scientific Advisor – said that the most important single thing we can do to maintain a quality of life in older age is to keep learning. Wow!

If this is the case, then the news comes very late as the provision of government supported adult education programmes across the country are in a state of collapse.

Local councils, universities and colleges, driven by the need to follow the money, have abandoned much of what they use to do in favour of delivering courses in basic skills – literacy and numeracy etc. – as well as in courses leading to recognised qualifications.

Of course, nobody is staying that these are not important too. It is undoubtedly critical that we have a well-educated and qualified working population.

But why did we have to close down a great tradition of courses in village halls and local schools in the process? The provision of adult education programmes was a simple public service that had the means of transforming individual lives and families. Above all though, learning for learning’s sake is a deeply civilising concept and one that ultimately adds value to communities and society in general.

Now we hear that it is also good for our mental health as well. The decline in provision and the opportunities on offer has to be reversed and a renaissance in adult education begun.

The irony of the present state of affairs is that New Labour came to power on the mantra of ‘education, education, education’ and David Blunkett had a visionary mission of creating a culture of lifelong learning!

Of course, the loss of adult education classes is only part of a larger picture in which the notion of public service and collective responsibility is replaced by private provision and narrow economic objectives.

That said, there are still some organisations doing their best to keep things going. Notable among them are the Women’s Institute, the WEA and the U3A – a voluntary self-help learning network for older people.

There is also a scattering of residential colleges offering weekend courses in a social setting; and we mustn’t forget art centres, museums, clubs and societies who often provide a vibrant programme of talks and activities.

The Open University remains open although this involves academic study at a high level and at a price which many people may find off-putting. If you have the money then certain private providers such as Warner Leisure also offer study and activity breaks in hotels.

So what’s to be done? Well, the government have been stung by public criticism of what has happened to adult education and the recently moved former Secretary of State, John Denham, indicated that something had to be done.

The big problem is that, thanks to the disgraceful behaviour of the banks, the financial cupboard is bare and a general election will probably make no difference – adult education has never been high on the political agenda.

The reality is that we are probably on our own. Don’t despair, let’s get down to the library (if we still have one) or online and search out the opportunities that do exist and sign up now. Find out what is going on in your area and take those tentative first steps…the science says that it will be seriously good for us.

Wayne's column appears in the current edition of Mature Times, which is freely available at Dillington and many other reputable outlets. (www.maturetimes.co.uk)

FESTIVE DINING

2008-10-09T02:07:00.000-07:00

The lead-up to Christmas is always a special
time at Dillington House. Once again we open our diary for bookings to individuals and groups.
There is a choice of an excellent carvery lunch, or something a little more special - a superb festive dinner with all the trimmings.
A great choice of wines, by the bottle or the glass, is available to compliment your meal.
Not only will your meal be a great prelude to Christmas, but our spectacular Christmas tree and roaring log fire are guaranteed to put you in the festive mood.
We also have a few evening dates available for parties.
Reservations are now being taken so book early to avoid disappointment.

CARVERY LUNCH

Thursday 18th December
Friday 19th December

Pre-lunch drinks from 12 noon, lunch served at 12.30pm
Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup
or
Pressed Duck Confit and Smooth Liver Parfait
with Red Onion Marmalade and Brioche Toasts
~~~~~~~~~~~
Saffron Roasted Turkey Breast
with Chestnut Pâté, Sausage and Bacon Rolls
and Cranberry Gravy
or
Roast Sirloin of Beef served with
Beetroot Crisps with a Chasseur Sauce
or
Homemade Parmesan and Spinach Ravioli with a Herb Butter
~~~~~~~~~~~
Dauphinoise and Roast Potatoes
A selection of Seasonal Vegetables
~~~~~~~~~~~
Christmas Pudding
with Brandy Crème Anglaise
or
Whiskey Marmalade Bread & Butter Pudding
or
Red Wine and Honey Poached Pears
with Clove Scented Chantilly Cream
~~~~~~~~~~~
Coffee & Mints
£19.90 per person
VAT & service included

DINNER

Thursday 18th December

Pre-dinner drinks from 7.00pm, dinner served 7.30pm

Roast Pumpkin and Carrot Soup with Parmesan Crisp
or
Chicken Liver Parfait
with a Cumberland Sauce and a Herb Scone
or
Crisp Tart of Caramelised Beetroot and Goats Cheese
~~~~~~~~~~~
Roast Breast of Turkey with traditional trimmings
or
Slow Roasted Lamb Shank
with Winter Greens and Butter Beans
or
Salmon Supreme with a Crab Crust & Basil Velouté
or
Butter Nut and Leek Lasagne
with Aubergine Chutney
~~~~~~~~~~~
Dauphinoise and Roast Potatoes
A Selection of Seasonal Vegetables
~~~~~~~~~~~
Chocolate Tiramisu Terrine
with Home made Baileys Ice Cream
or
Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce
or
A Selection of West Country Cheeses
~~~~~~~~~~~
Coffee & Mints
£29.50 per person
VAT & service included

Overnight accommodation is also available.

Contact Sue Wrigglesworth
Tel 01460 258610
swrigglesworth@somerset.gov.uk

Why not stay over night and enjoy a full English
breakfast to complete the Dillington experience?
Great value at £50.00 per person!

CONFERENCE & MEETINGS IN DECEMBER

Book your meeting, conference or training event
during December and enjoy a sumptuous Christmas lunch.
We look forward to welcoming you to
Dillington House this Christmas.
For enquiries please contact
Jacinta Elliott Conference Manager
Tel 01460 258611
jelliott@somerset.gov.uk
Dillington House
Ilminster Somerset TA19 9DT
www.dillington.com

BANISH THE CREDIT CRUNCH BLUES – HAVE A HEN PARTY

2008-10-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

WARD off the January blues in splendid surroundings. You and your business deserve it.

Christmas at Dillington House is always special and the diary gets pretty full with corporate dinners and country house parties for work colleagues. Some even manage to combine a meeting in the morning with a hearty Christmas lunch before heading off home mid-afternoon.

For Dillington, near Ilminster, Somerset, this is just part of the seasonal cycle and no sooner is everyone back from the New Year celebrations than everything changes gear and the diary entertains small teams of colleagues meeting to re-assess business performance and start preparing strategies for the new financial year.

The convivial privacy and charm of Dillington – which is not a hotel – offers the get-away-from-it-all atmosphere without breaking the budget.

The crisp country air and the perfect parkland setting of a former Prime Minister's country retreat contrast with the roaring log fire in the Hall and the warm-as-toast comfort of the bedrooms which, this January, is supplemented by a stunning new contemporary accommodation building that overlooks Rosie Boycotts’s walled garden and the River Isle floodplain…this is Somerset after all.

After the financial trials and tribulations of 2008 let 2009 be a year of renewal and growth and let the wonderful Dillington House be a part of how you achieve your business aims.

In full flight Dillington, and its high-tech, free broadband connections, is one of the West country's premier conference and training venues – Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth and South Wales are all within easy reach, just an hour or so away - but it is equally suitable for working on a much smaller scale.

The food is all homemade from quality ingredients – the kitchen takes 650 eggs from Rosie’s hens each week! – and the facilities and equipment are as you’d expect in a professional working environment. The amazing collection of art is a bonus…as is being able to borrow books from the library.

Take an invigorating walk through the Secret Garden and fresh, new ideas are sure to flow

Dillington House: 0146052427
www.dillingtonhouse.com
For more information or photographs, please call:

Wayne Bennett or Carol Crocker on 0146052427
Issued by prone www.prone.biz 0208 1333016

Organising a Conference

2008-10-06T07:39:00.000-07:00

Big or small, conferences take a lot of managing and if you’re new to the role, then planning one can seem a daunting task.

Essentially you need a clear vision of what is required, according to Wayne Bennett, the manager of Somerset’s flagship residential business conference centre, Dillington House.

Set in acres of parkland near Ilminster, the beautiful historic house has been awarded a five star rating by VisitBritain, the official website of the British Tourist Authority.

“Dillington House is an amazing venue for business,” says Wayne, who is delighted with the award.

“A wide range of rooms and settings together with all the latest technology and customer support make any meeting away from the office a complete breeze.

“It is a creative place where colleagues can work together and get things done without the usual distractions.”

Dillington House provides conference facilities for up to 160 delegates and the
type of conference staged here vary enormously from high-profile events involving government ministers to meetings involving a few colleagues who want somewhere quiet where they can think creatively about their business.

“There have been top-secret meetings lasting several days dealing with military procurement as well as more zany conferences featuring clowns and drumming!” says Wayne.

He imparted a few of the basics when it comes to organising your own event.

*Securing the date in the dairy is the first thing.
*Is it residential or non-residential?
*What other rooms are to be required and what equipment is needed?
*Does the event need technical assistance of any sort?

The diverse range of venues in Somerset, from historic country houses such as Dillington to purpose built centres, attracts organisations looking for an easily accessible location.

For a list of venues go to www.visitsomerset.co.uk/conferences
Contact Dillington House on 01460 52427; www.dillington.com
We would like to thank Somerset Life magazine - this article appears in the November issue

WIND IN THE WILLOWS

2008-10-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

TOAD and his pals will be doing their best to promote the National Year of Reading when they arrive at Dillington House, Ilminster, Somerset, on Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 October 2008.

The Wind in the Willows characters are a little peeved that many British youngsters spend large amounts of their time on their computers, yet so little reading.

So they are stepping out of the pages of Kenneth Grahame's classic children's novel which is 100 years old this year.

Hundreds of youngsters from Somerset's schools have been invited to Dillington, the county's leading conferencing and adult education centre, to enjoy two days of events to promote the enjoyment of reading, the use of libraries and encourage volunteers to come forward to read to children.

Toad, arrogant as ever, will have the use of a limo from Hayne's Motor Museum, along with a replica of a Romany caravan.

Fox, Mole and Ratty will chat to visitors in Dillington's gardens and woods.

The event is funded by Somerset County Council, and its staff will be helping the characters run it.

Sarah Cook, senior primary literacy consultant for Somerset county council said:

“The aim is to promote the fun and enjoyment in reading. So many youngsters now turn on their computers and enjoy the visual aspect of that, which is fine. But there is so much to be gained from reading too.

“We hope the two days in a beautiful location, with the characters an workshops will also help spread the word about the wonderful library system which is available to all and encourage people to sign up as reading volunteers because so many children don't have adults at home to read to them which deprives them of so much .”

OPEN DAY

2008-09-03T07:40:00.001-07:00

It’s Open Day at Dillington House on Sunday 7 September from 12 noon to 5.00pm and entry is free. There will be lots to see and do – live music performed by the Wincanton Silver Band, Isle Abbots Choir and concert pianist Jack Lambert. Other events include Appalachian Clog dancers and a display from The Taunton Garrison as well as demonstrations of weaving, flower arranging and lace-making. There will be horse-drawn carriage rides and a display of wedding cars. You will get a chance to take part in a choice of free mini courses on subjects such as painting, writing and family history as well as the opportunity to chat to some of our tutors. Explore the house and gardens, find out about the intriguing history of the house and get a sneak preview of the developments of the new building. Buy some plants or produce from local suppliers, meet the pigs and chickens down at Dillington Nurseries, say hello to an owl and make friends with a Llama. Come and enjoy a BBQ lunch and treat yourself to ice cream or afternoon tea with home-made cakes. Other light snacks and refreshments will be available. So why not bring your family and friends along for a great afternoon out?

For more information or for a free copy of Dillington’s programme of courses and events call 01460 52427 or visit the website on www.dillington.com

HOUSE AT NIGHT

2008-07-30T06:20:00.000-07:00

NEW VIEWS OF DILLINGTON

2008-07-20T09:54:00.000-07:00

DILLINGTON BEST IN BRITAIN

2008-07-12T05:41:00.000-07:00

DILLINGTON HOUSE WINS TOP ACCOLADE
And Somerset soars up the league...

DILLINGTON HOUSE, Somerset’s flagship residential business conference centre, has been awarded a unique five star rating by VisitBritain, the official website of the British Tourist Authority.
Guest accommodation at the beautiful hamstone country house set in acres of parkland near Ilminster, was judged as “exceptional, with a degree of luxury.”
The former home of George III’s Prime Minister, Lord North, Dillington came top of a list of 36 college and universities in the campus section; the only one awarded a five-star billing. The website is viewed by tens of thousands of potential visitors every year.
It was a good day for Somerset. The county itself soared to second in the VisitBritain league of “most visited” destinations. In fact it topped everything bar Yorkshire.
VisitBritain, impressed by the quality their independent assessors found at Dillington, said people were looking for somewhere different to visit and had woken up to the ancient charms of Somerset. It was now providing competition for its Cotswolds’ neighbours.
Dillington House, while providing first class conference facilities for up to 160 delegates, is also the county’s prestigious seat of adult residential learning.
It is an ideal base to explore the region’s great attractions. And, said VisitBritain, at a surprisingly reasonable cost.
“This house is a true gem in a jewel of a county. Both are well worth discovering,” said a spokesman. “People are now looking for somewhere different to go and Dillington and Somerset are providing fresh, exciting locations for the discerning traveller.”
The Mendips, Wells, Glastonbury, West Somerset, Bath and Bristol, Dorset’s Jurassic coastline, Plymouth and access to Devon and Cornwall, Stonehenge and Avebury, and the region’s famous gardens are all within easy reach of Dillington House.
“Dillington is perhaps unique in offering wonderful accommodation and conference facilities, while not losing its charming, homely atmosphere, whether for the business guest or student.”

General Manager Wayne Bennett is delighted with the award.
“Dillington House is an amazing venue for business. A wide range of rooms and settings together with all the latest technology and customer support make any meeting away from the office a complete breeze.,” he says.
“It is a creative place where colleagues can work together and get things done without the usual distractions. “Come and see us and you will be hooked from the moment you arrive.”
Dillington’s home-cooked cuisine, much from the estate’s walled garden run by former Fleet St editor and organic grower Rosie Boycott, is a mouth-watering favourite with all who venture inside this classic country house.
But alongside the old something amazingly contemporary is emerging. At the end of the year the historic buildings will be complimented by a new building adding two large studio rooms and fifteen bedrooms complete with stylish wet room facilities.
Wayne adds: “Our approach has been to create the ultimate sense of warmth and privacy. Taking in the amazing views towards to the Brendon Hills and The Quantocks, the new bedrooms will provide quiet rooms in which to think and dream.”
Dillington House is blending the old with the new in ways that bridge the divide between the best of the past and the world in which we live today.

For further details please contact:

Adult Education: Jane Harrison - 01460 258613 jtharrison2@somerset.gov.uk
Conference/Training: Jacinta Elliott - 01460 258611 jelliott@somerset.gov.uk
www.dillington.com

Issued by prone on behalf of Dillington House, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 9DT

www.prone.biz

0208 1333016/0044(0)7956 909415

VALERIE SINGLETON GOES BACK TO SCHOOL

2008-07-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

THERE’S excitement and expectancy in the air, just like the first day of term at a new school.
‘Pupils’ are animated as they chat enthusiastically to fellow classmates over organic coffee in front of a welcoming log fire; toasting themselves gently on a chill winter-moving-into-spring morning; readying themselves for the day of learning ahead.
First lesson of the day: If you are going to have soya milk with your brew, you must put it in first. Added last it will curdle. Amazing what you can glean before you’ve even taken your seat in class.
These students are part of the New Labour dream. ‘Education from the cradle to the grave,’ bellowed David Blunkett, heralding a fresh chapter in the life of the nation’s text books and teachers.
And nowhere plays its role better in that fine scholastic and nurturing ideal than historic Dillington House, a short walk through the woods from Ilminster in the shiny Somerset countryside.
Outside in the beautiful walled gardens of this Ham stone gem is the sans-pesticide micro farm run by one time Fleet Street editor and leader of Liberation, Rosie Boycott, now a cutting edge columnist and fully-fledged farmer who writes her stuff these days with soil under once manicured talons.
So celebrities are nothing new in the life of Dillington, for many years a unique leader in the field of adult education, and also a masterful, mindful mein host for the many residential business conferences and seminars held in the discreet environs of the old house with its mature malt whiskey-walls and inviting interior full of understated art. Stuffy it is not. Clubby in a comfortable, inclusive way.
That’s why is attracts such a quirky, colourful cross-section of customers from every walk of life and livings. You’d be surprised. Very surprised.
Lords and ladies, not totally undercover – what’s the point in being landed if no-one knows it? – mix easily with builders and bank managers, housewives and helicopter pilots or simply the relaxed and retired from a myriad of occupations who want to expand the breadth of their knowledge with a few courses in these stimulating surroundings.
Why, you might even find yourself sitting next to the mother or father of a rock star. They come a little more covertly to the gatherings. But it has been known.
This part of the world is the new showbiz golden triangle, on the apex of the Somerset – Dorset – Devon borders, a location, location, location must, far away from the madding crowds of the Cotswolds, “so yesterday darling.”
There’s a bit more of a buzz today than usual over the home-made cakes and cookies.
Gentle, whispered conversations. Eyes averted. Don’t look now but…
It isn’t is it? It can’t be! It’s her. What a member of the royal family? No. No. Not quite. Oh yes I think you‘re right. I bet it is. What, here?
A gentleman in his middle –age, old enough to remember the flickering black and white screen fired up by an energy-guzzling cathode ray, displaying grainy live broadcasts featuring incontinent elephants and flirty ferrets, proffers his right hand and a nervous smile and asks quietly, so that only she can hear: : “Excuse me, but are you Valerie Singleton?”
“I am and you can call me Val,” responds the crowned head of British television through the swinging sixties and slightly svelte seventies. As presenter of arguably the nation’s favourite show watched in every household by every child, Blue Peter, she was one of the first stars of the screen.
Of course it’s an answer she made earlier. Being Valerie Singleton puts you in a small, select band of televisual celebrities who is always recognised everywhere, and like a good girl scout, is prepared.
Our Valerie Singleton was the undoubted Queen of TV, the most known female face in the British world, rivalling that the monarch herself.
And, at first, shaking hands with such an iconic figure is a little like kneeling on bended knee before Her Majesty, waiting for the tap of Sheffield-steel on the shoulder, while being told: “Call me Liz.”
But of course, it is not the same thing at all. Val Singleton was and remains, the ultimate icy cool professional, unflappable and unflustered, a flawless diamond of the early age of broadcasting who went on to present a plethora of heavyweight radio and televisions shows. But in real life, she’s approachable and affable with few airs and graces who has found a new lease of life in the West Country after finally uprooting from London.
Her excitement with this fresh start is barely concealed as she chatters away like a schoolgirl with a new circle of friends.
“People do come up to me and ask if I am who they think I am,” she explains, “I say I am and that’s that. It isn’t mentioned again and we just get on with things, like normal people do. I don’t mind at all.
“It’s a friendly inquiry and I do understand that Blue Peter was a big part of people’s lives and millions grew up with it. We were in their homes every week for a long, long time, and the show still runs today.”
It was comic and social commentator Stephen Fry who said of celebrity: “I have been pondering this business of fame since I was young enough to know Valerie Singleton from the Queen. For Americans and foreigners I should explain: One is a remote, god-like, autocratic woman endowed with powerful charismatic charm and the other is a constitutional monarch recently played by Helen Mirren.”
Val, now an extremely youthful-looking 70, with classy dark tips to her, designer cut hair, laughs. “I really keep meaning to email him about that, it’s quite flattering, although I’m not sure about autocratic.”
Today Miss Singleton, who remains romantically-positioned as her surname suggests, reveals she has boyfriends, often much younger than herself, and a lust for learning, travel and her new love, digital photography. She has just fronted a successful Money Programme which may lead to more, is an energetic published writer about her journeys and is pleased to report work offers still arrive regularly.
She taps a forefinger to her head and says: “Age is all up here. It’s not about the number of years. If you are fortunate enough to be able to be fit and well, age should not limit us in any way.
“If the attitude is young and go-for-it, that’s all that should matter. I want to learn about digital photography, but sadly all the courses are booked up well in advance, but after hearing about Dillington I realised they have a lot of exciting courses and when I came here for the first time I fell in love with it.
“I have been thumbing through the brochure for new courses, but what I have done so far are Reputations: Alfred the Great and the ‘Evil’ King John.
“From Muhammed to Osama: A survey of Islam and its politics through the ages.
“I loved The Origins of Humanity…and the Wonderful Temples of Ancient Egypt, because I am fascinated with travelling.”
Her report book is blotted today however. The star pupil missed the morning session of Mummification and Afterlife in Egypt after a late arrival back from London the previous night.
“I know a bit about mummification already,” she jokes. “I did some courses in London in the early days of Blue Peter, on antiques and porcelain and wine, but I have never come across such amazing, interesting and varied courses as the ones at Dillington.
“It’s hard to believe a council is running it! The brochure is beautifully set out and the setting is fabulous. Inside it is lovely and incredibly relaxing…and the food superb. The courses attracted me, the rest was a bonus. In winter the old hall and the real log fire make it enclosing and peaceful and I think sitting out in the wonderful gardens in the summer will be heaven.”
Val reveals she was far from an ideal pupil when she went to school and left for RADA hoping to become a dancer with little formal education or qualifications.
“I couldn’t concentrate at all,” she remembers. “I would get on everybody’s nerves by kicking the desk absent-mindedly.
“So my learning left a lot to be desired and I doubt now if I tried to get into television that I would be given any kind of a job because I had very little in the way of passes in exams and didn’t go to college or university.
“It is so heartening to see so many people of a certain age at a time of life when it would be all too easy to say, ‘Why bother, how am I going to need or use this information?’ instead being so enthusiastic to learn.
“And they come from so far away, I’m sure so many new friendships have been made. I haven’t stayed myself because I don’t live too far away, but I’m sure that is a delightful way to spend your time, relaxing in beautiful surroundings and learning something fascinating.”
With that Valerie Singleton heads for the afternoon session on Mummies, just one of the gang.