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.