Shepton Mallet Journal - 11 June 1987
PAULTON
Druids' Fete
The members of the Pride of Somerset Lodge, No. 810, of the Royal United Ancient Order Druids (Bristol District) held their annual fete and gala Monday. The members met at their lodge-room at the Britannia Inn, where they were met by the Arch Druid (Bro. J. Filer), the Vice-Arch (Bro. E. Perry), Per. Secretary W. Padfield, and the other members of the committee, together with contingents from the Loyal Friend in Need Lodge (Radstock) and others from Fishponds. All were in full dress with regalia. A procession was then formed, headed by the bands of the G Company 1st Vol. Batt., P.A.S.L.I., which proceeded to perambulate the village, visiting the residences of the principal inhabitants, where selections of music were given. Afterwards they returned to the lodge-room for refreshments. In the afternoon an adjournment was made to the sports field at Winterfield, where an excellent programme of amusements was provided.
Funeral of Mrs. Blanning
The funeral of Mrs. Blanning, widow of Mr. John N. P. Blanning, whose death, after a protracted illness, took place at the Lamb Hotel on the 31st ult., took place Thursday, when the corpse was interred in the family grave at the cemetery. The service was impressively conducted the vicar. Among the relatives who attended were Messrs. Edgell, Albert, John and Harold Blanning (sons), Chard, Frank and A. H. Mattick, Edwin and James Bryan, E. Harford and Arthur Blanning (nephews), Joseph Gregory and Leslie Gregory (son-in-law and grandson), and Tom Blanning and George Adams (brothers-in-law). Others were the Rev. J. Kempton, Messrs. T. Bush and J. Gregory, jun., Timsbury. The coffin was of polished oak, with massive brass furniture. On the brest-plate was engraved "Catherine Blanning, died May 31st, 1897, aged 66 years.” Mrs. Blanning was highly esteemed in the village, and during the ceremony the blinds of private residences were drawn and business premises were partially closed. Beautiful floral tributes were laid on the grave.