Wiveliscombe
(pop. c2500) is hub of the Ten Parishes (total pop. c8000):Ashbrittle,
Bathealton, Brompton Ralph, Chipstable, Clatworthy, Fitzhead,
Huish Champflower, Milverton, Stawley and Wiveliscombe itself.
With
the exception of Milverton, a delightful, larger Georgian village
with a strong musical tradition, the parishes are small ancient
settlements tucked into the hills down winding, wooded lanes.
It is a friendly part of the world, where neighbours still know
each other, and a sense of community thrives.
Wiveliscombe
serves the needs of many scattered farms and small communities
throughout this part of west Somerset. It has a prosperous business
population, with 300 small to medium-sized enterprises located
within a five-mile radius. Agriculture - mainly pasture and
grazing in the surrounding hills - is still a source of employment
for many.
The
hedgerows are well-maintained and teem with wildlife: you'll
see badgers, hares, foxes and the occasional stoat or weasel.
The temperate West Country climate shows through in a profusion
of wild flowers.