North Somerset Magazine November 2021

NORTH SOMERSET MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2021

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This Month..

The team

4. Gritters to travel 6. Path to improved health 8. Whats on this month 10. Movies this month 14. Increase in NI and dividend tax 16. Overnight French toast 17. Bonfire Night is just around the corner 20. Home improvement tips: Wallpapering 26. Horoscopes 29. Plasma donation 30. Your garden in November

Disclaimer The opinions expressed in Direct Local do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publisher or their agents. Whilst every reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included within this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions in Direct Local.

The content of Direct Local is not to be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. Please pass to a friend, recycle or compost. All adverts designed by Direct Local are the property of Direct Local please contact us if you wish to reprint them in other publications as a small release fee Is applied. Use of adverts designed by us will need written permission first.

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EDITOR Michael Davies Journalist Lisa Davies PROOF READER Elisabeth Davies Regular editorials By: Andrea Sexton, Martin Powell Daren Bane Kayleigh Penny Corinna Ingram Molly Pownall Susan Uzel

Distribution: North Somerset Magazines are delivered to homes and businesses to reach 20,000 people each month..

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Gritters to travel in a more sustainable way

Gritters across North Somerset will help keep major routes in North Somerset passable this winter in a more sustainable way.

The six bright yellow vehicles will now run on Hydrogenerated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel as part of the council's commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

HVO fuel reduces the carbon associated with fuel usage by 90 per cent.

It is produced entirely from renewable raw materials, including vegetable oils, animal fats, cooking oils, fish fats and corn oils, all of which are recovered from current industry practices and/or waste processing operations.

Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council's executive member with responsibility for roads said the gritters covered many miles during the course of the winter and the switch to HVO supported the council's commitment to be carbon neutral in the future.

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"The gritters cover a huge number of miles over the winter period so I am delighted that they will now be using a more environmentally friendly form of fuel in line with our climate emergency commitments.

"Each gritter tends to operate in its named area, so look out for Burrrrrington, Bleadon-cold, Nailski, Portispread, Weston-scooper-Mare and Sleetholm during the winter months."

The fleet are co-ordinated by highways engineers who work on schemes all year to improve the condition of the area’s roads, then become winter specialists from October to provide cover seven-days a week.

Last winter, the gritters went out 52 times, used 2,400 tonnes of salt and gritted 9,857 miles of road.

January was the busiest month with the gritters going out 23 times in total.

Why not read our other publications online!

South Bristol North Somerset North Bristol South Gloucestershire www.directlocalbristol.co.uk 5

Path to improved health

Sports drinks are helpful if you’re planning on exercising at higher than normal levels for more than an hour. They contain carbohydrates and electrolytes that can increase your energy. They help your body absorb water.

However, some sports drinks are high in calories from added sugar. They also may contain Your body is dependent on water to survive. high levels of sodium (salt). Check the serving Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body size on the label. One bottle usually contains needs water to work properly. For example, more than one serving. Some sports drinks your body uses water to maintain its temperacontain caffeine, too. Remember that a safe ture, remove waste, and lubricate your joints. amount of caffeine to consume each day is no Water is needed for overall good health. more than 400 milligrams.

Look to water first You need to drink water every day. Most people have been told they should drink 6 to 8, 8-ounce glasses of water each day. That’s a reasonable goal. However, different people need different amounts of water to stay hydrated. Most healthy people can stay well hydrated by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. For some people, fewer than 8 glasses may be enough. Other people may need more than 8 glasses each day.

Energy drinks are not the same as sports drinks. Energy drinks usually contain large amounts of caffeine. Also, they contain ingredients that overstimulate you (guarana, ginseng, or taurine). These are things your body doesn’t need. Most of these drinks are also high in added sugar. According to doctors, children and teens should not have energy drinks.

If staying hydrated is difficult for you, here are some tips that can help:

•

Plan water is best for staying hydrated howev er other drinks and foods can help, too. Fruit • and vegetable juices, milk, and herbal teas

add to the amount of water you get each day.

Even caffeinated drinks (for example, coffee, • tea, and soda) can contribute to your daily

water intake. A moderate amount of caffeine • (400 milligrams) isn’t harmful for most people.

Here are the caffeine amounts found in popu lar drinks:

• 12 ounces of soda: 30 to 40

milligrams • 8 ounces of green or black tea: 30 to

50 milligrams • • 8 ounces black coffee: 80 to 100 milligrams

• 8-ounce energy drink: 40 to 250

milligrams

However, it’s best to limit caffeinated drinks.

Caffeine may cause some people to urinate • more frequently or feel anxious or jittery. Plus,

be mindful of what you drink. Some choices

may add extra calories from sugar to your diet. Water is also found in fruits and vegetables (for example, watermelon, tomatoes, and lettuce), and in soup broths.

6 Other options

Keep a bottle of water with you during the day. To reduce your costs, carry a reusable water bottle and fill it with tap water.

If you don’t like the taste of plain water, try adding a slice of lemon or lime to your drink.

Drink water before, during, and after a workout.

When you’re feeling hungry, drink water. Thirst is often confused with hunger. True hunger will not be satisfied by drinking water.

Drinking water may also contribute to a healthy weight-loss plan. Some research suggests that drinking water can help you feel full.

If you have trouble remembering to drink water, drink on a schedule. For example, drink water when you wake up, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and when you go to bed. Or, drink a small glass of water at the beginning of each hour.

Drink water when you go to a restau rant. It will keep you hydrated, and it’s free.

Things to consider If you don’t drink enough water, you may become dehydrated. This means your body doesn’t have enough fluid to operate properly.

Your urine can be an indicator if you’re dehydrated. If it’s colorless or light yellow, you’re well hydrated. If your urine is a dark yellow or amber color, you may be dehydrated.

There are other signs that can signal you may be dehydrated. They include: • Little or no urine.

• Urine that is darker than usual.

• Dry mouth.

• Sleepiness or fatigue.

• Extreme thirst.

• Headache.

• Confusion.

• Dizziness or light headedness.

• No tears when crying.

Some people are at higher risk of dehydration, including people who exercise at a high intensity (or in hot weather) for too long, have certain medical conditions (kidney stones, bladder infection), are sick (fever, vomiting, diarrhea), are pregnant or breastfeeding, are trying to lose weight, or aren’t able to get enough fluids during the day. Older adults are also at higher risk. As you get older, your brain may not be able to sense dehydration. It doesn’t send signals for thirst.

Note that water makes up more than half of your body weight. You lose water each day when you go to the bathroom, sweat, and even when you breathe. You lose water even faster when the weather is really hot, when you’re physically active, or if you have a fever. Vomiting and diarrhea can also lead to rapid water loss. Be sure to actively drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated.

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Whats on this month around Bristol

MERCHANTS’ ACADEMY DEPARTMENT S PRESENTS | WILCOMMUNITY FIREWORK DISPLAY DERMAN | TINY DYNO | FRASER.

Date: Thursday 4th November

A community Firework Display held at Merchants’ Academy Secondary School.

A firework Display with music alongside a BBQ, Candy floss, Various refreshments , glow sticks & a bouncy castle.

Doors to open at 5pm with the display starting at 6pm Venue: Gatehouse Avenue Bristol, BS13 9AJ CHUCKLES COMEDY EVENTS PRESENTS MIKE WILEY & FRIENDS LIVE STAND UP ACT

Date: Friday 12th November

FULL BAND outing for Bobby Anderson’s great new alias WILDERMAN. Bobby is son of Young Disciples singer Carleen Anderson and grandson of James Brown right hand man Bobby Byrd. An intrinsic part of the fabric of Bristol’s live music scene for 15 years including stints fronting cult band Fortune Drive in the early days and touring with fellow Bristolians IDLES in 2020, he is known for his distinctively raw, soulful vocals.

Venue: Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 6UA

FASTLOVE: EVERYTHING SHE WANTS

Date: Saturday 6th November

Chuckles Comedy Events Presents By Popular Demand A Live Comedy Performance By Mike Wiley. Along With The Very Funny Mandisa Sheba Sokon , Date: Tuesday 16th November Frank Lee .Jon The Everything She Wants Tour! Come and see the George Michael tribute that’s captured Venue: 15 Nelson St, Bristol BS1 2JY the hearts of thousands. Coming to a theatre near you. *Dates added throughout the year as tickets and when tickets are available* Venue: Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustines Parade, Bristol 8

FACE 2 FACE MENTAL HEALTH FIRST THE BRISTOL CAREERS FAIR AID CERTIFICATE - MHFA

Date: Wednesday 17th November

Would you like to become more knowledgeable about mental health and feel confident in supporting those who might be struggling?

EDP Ltd is the leading open course provider in the south west. We have been providing this kind of training for over 3 years and have an experienced Associate and Instructor from MHFA England (Bianca Jones CIPD Assoc) delivering your course. 9:00am – 5.00pm OVER 2 DAYS. You will need attend both days in person Venue: Social Farms & Gardens The Greenhouse, Hereford St, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4NA, 0117 923 1800

Date: Friday 26th November

The Bristol Careers Fair will offer candidates from all backgrounds, experience and education levels the opportunity to speak to representatives from an abundance of local employers, all in one place. he events are open to anyone and everyone and completely free to attend. For any questions of booking related queries please contact info@ukcareersfair.com‍ or visit www.ukcareersfair.com.

BRISTOL WINTER FAYRE: ASHTON GATE

LITTLE PICKLES MARKET

Date: Saturday 27th November

A festive indoor Christmas market comes to Bristol with a wonderful selection of retailers, real reindeer to meet and an Audience with Santa

Date: Sunday 21st November

We are returning to Emersons Green Village Hall for our final Little Pickles Market here before the year end.

This is a very popular and busy market, you can expect anything ranging from buggys to toys, swimwear to wellies, clothes to cots and lots more!

Venue: Emersons Green Village Hall

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WHATS ON AT YOUR LOCAL CINEMA Edgar Wright’s psychological thriller about a young girl, passionate in fashion design, who is mysteriously able to enter the 1960s where she encounters her idol, a dazzling wannabe singer. But 1960s London is not what it appears, and time seems to fall apart with shady consequences…

LAST NIGHT IN SOHO Marvel Studios’ Eternals features an exciting new team of Super Heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, ancient aliens who have been living on Earth in secret for thousands of years. Following the events of “Avengers: Endgame,” an unexpected tragedy forces them out of the shadows to reunite against mankind‘s most ancient enemy, The Deviants.

ETERNALS A mythic and emotionally charged hero’s journey, “Dune” tells the story of Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet’s exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence—a commodity capable of unlocking humanity’s greatest potential—only those who can conquer their fear will survive. Villeneuve directed “Dune” from a screenplay by Jon Spaihts and Villeneuve and Eric Roth based on the novel of the same name written by Frank Herbert.

DUNE 2021 11

5 Things You Probably Didn’t Know Were From Bristol

The North American Accent

Blankets

Chocolate

Methodism

There is suggestion that Bristol’s accent directly influenced that of North America.

We’re not saying that they’re the same but put them side by side and you can certainly hear a link. This is likely to be because (many, many years ago) the very first Pilgrims set off for America from Bristol’s port and after that trade was strong between the two places for a long, long time. It’s no surprise that the two accents are linked.

It’s true, a native Bristolian called Joseph Fry was the very first person to create the chocolate bar as we know it. Chocolate had been around for a while before hand but it was in the guise of a drink. It was Fry that turned this idea into an actual bar and so the world can thank Bristol (especially Mr Fry!) for the gift of chocolate.

Ribena 12

Now we admit that we can’t be 100% certain on this one but legend does have it that it was a wool merchant from Bristol that actually invented the blanket. His name, Edward Blanket, gives us a clue that he may have been the inventor and we’re pretty sure that he’d be super proud today knowing that the humble blanket is used on every corner of the earth.

The first Methodist preacher was a Bristolian.

In 1739 John Wesley took the first steps to a new strain of religion called Methodism. He preached a sermon from Hanham Mount to local miners and similar style sermons were soon incredibly popular. In the same year the very first Methodist chapel was built, also in Bristol.

This popular drink is also from Bristol. It was originally invented at the National Fruit and Cider Institute and is now sold globally. Bristol

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Increase in NI and dividend tax – what does this mean for me?

The Prime Minister has announced that for the 22/23 tax year, national insurance rates, and dividend rates will increase by 1.25%.

Grammatically this is correct but is mathematically misleading. For a basic rate taxpayer, the tax rate on dividends is 7.5%. This will rise to 8.75%, which is an increase of 16.7%.

The employed rate of NI is 12% and will rise to 13.25% this represents a 10.4% increase.

These are very significant increases, in real terms far above the 1.25% as reported.

So, what can we do to mitigate these increases? On the face of it not a lot.

However, there are a few measures we can take:

So, what does this mean for the director on a tax efficient 50k remuneration?

1. Don’t take more dividends than you need to. This needs to be weighed against the risk of keeping additional funds in the company.

2. When recruiting, two part time positions rather than one full time position may help to reduce or eliminate any additional employers national insurance.

The above figures are for individuals. It shouldn’t be forgotten that employees NI is also increasing from 13.8% to 15.05%. For small employers who claim the employment allowance of £4000 and where the £4000 continues to cover all of the employers NI there will be no noticeable difference, however, for those paying employers NI, they will see a significant increase in the NI costs of their workforce.

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3. Ensure you are using alphabetical shares appropriately (i.e. use wife and husbands allowances).

4. Ensure all expenses are claimed as this may reduce the amounts of dividends taken.

If you are looking for advice on Ni and dividend tax give us a call on: 0117 923 5394 or email us at enquiries@ tsabusinessadvisors.co.uk or you can visit www.tsabuisnessadvisors.co.uk

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Overnight French toast croissant bake

Ingredients 250ml double cream

Method First, make a custard

4 Co-op egg yolks

Heat the cream and milk in a saucepan until almost boiling, then take off the heat In a bowl, beat the egg yolks, caster sugar and vanilla extract

3 tbsp Fairtrade caster sugar

Pour in the cream mixture, stir then set aside

2 tsp vanilla extract

Grease a deep 20cm x 30cm ovenproof dish

Butter or Fry light, for greasing

Spread 6 croissant halves with jam, replace the tops and cut in half

250ml semi-skimmed milk

6 croissants, halved 6 tbsp apricot jam 20g flaked almonds 150g mixed berries (we used raspberries, and strawberries ) Fairtrade icing sugar, to serve

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Arrange in the dish and pour over the custard Cover and refrigerate overnight Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4 Sprinkle the flaked almonds over the dish and bake for 25-30 mins, until golden and the custard has set Allow to rest for 5 mins, then scatter over the berries and dust with icing sugar to serve

Having fireworks or a bonfires? You need to know this before November 5th The law on lighting bonfires: Bonfire Night is just around the corner and although many of us are excited to celebrate this year - we must also be mindful of what laws are in place surrounding November 5.

Last year, we were under a second lockdown, squashing any chance of celebration.

Now that restrictions are lifted in the UK, it is likely people will flock to events and others may stay home, There are many laws surrounding the use of fireworks, or lighting a bonfire, on your own land.

Here are all the rules and regulations that you need to know about fireworks and bonfire.

You cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you’re under 18, and it’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions.

For Bonfire night - the cut off is midnight.

Adult fireworks are category 2 and 3 fireworks - they do not include things like party poppers.

Category 4 fireworks can not be purchased by the general public and can only be used by professionals.

You cannot set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.

There are no laws against lighting a bonfire in your garden, but there are laws about causing a nuisance for your neighbours.

There are a few things you should consider if you plan on lighting a bonfire this year.

Legally, you can light your bonfire any time or day or night, but it is common courtesy to plan it so it finishes burning at dusk.

Letting your neighbours know when you plan on lighting your bonfire is also polite as it can allow them to plan what washing they may leave out or how they plan to use their garden that day.

If you do decide to light a bonfire, then try to avoid burning wet or green matter because it will cause excess smoke.

Contact your local council to find out how to get rid of it or you can always compost it as well.

Furthermore, most councils prohibit burning straw or hay so avoid using that as part of your bonfire.

You should also avoid burning rubber, or plastic because it violates environmental protection laws.

You should also be aware it is against the law to have smoke drift onto a public highway.

You could be fined £5,000 if this happens.

If you plan on lighting a bonfire this Guy Fawkes’ Day just make sure you speak to your neighbours and local fire authority about it.

17

Driving in cold weather could break Highway Code rules, lead to fines and licence points

Drivers are being urged to stay safe when driving this winter, or they could risk being fined and having penalty points to their licence.

With the weather starting to get colder and the days getting shorter, road users are being warned to make necessary checks before driving. Rules 226 to 237 of the Highway Code address motoring laws in regard to “driving in adverse weather conditions”.

Rule 229 specifically sets out what drivers should do before they enter their vehicle.

It states: “Before you set off you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows.

“You MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible.

Make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly.

“Remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users.

“Check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted.”

If drivers do not abide by these Highway Code rules, they could risk a £60 fine.

Drivers may also receive penalty points on their driving licence for not abiding by the rules.

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Motorists could even be in hot water with their car insurance companies if an accident were to occur.

If an insurance company finds out drivers were not following the highway code, it could lead to a withheld payout.

To demist a windscreen, the RAC advises drivers start the heater off cold and direct the flow of air at the windscreen and windows, then slowly increase the temperature.

It does, however, cause a distraction to other motorists when it eventually comes off, so it is worth it to remove the snow whilst demisting the car.

Ultimately, when clearing ice and demisting the car, try and ensure all the snow has been removed too.

However, if on a public road the highway code states: "You must not leave a vehicle’s engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road."

Alongside making the vehicle an easy target for theft, drivers could land themselves with a fine ranging from £20 to £80 depending on the location.

This is only applicable on public roads, so motorists are safe to demist on driveways and other areas of private land.

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Home Improvement tips

Tips And Tricks For Successful wall paper hanging There are some tasks that you may need to do before hanging your wallpaper. Check our list to ensure your walls are fully ready for wallpaper. With this guide you will get the best finish possible and avoid any nasty surprises further into the project.

Have you removed any existing wallpaper?

Doing this will give you a smooth finish and avoid air bubbles and creases appearing when you hang the new wallpaper

Have you bought enough wallpaper?

It helps to estimate the amount of wallpaper you’ll need for your project. When you measure the height and length of the walls you want to wallpaper, also measure the windows and doors. Allow extra for wastage. We recommend 10% extra, and any unopened rolls can be returned to the store you bought them from. Also, allow for extra when using paper with a large repeat pattern – the pattern repeat is usually stated on the roll label or product information.

Are all the rolls of wallpaper the same batch number?

Make sure all the rolls have the same batch number printed on the label, as the colours and in some instances, the finish, can vary between batches.

Have you planned how you’re going to hang the wallpaper?

We recommend hanging wallpaper vertically Are your walls freshly plastered? unless the pattern requires it to be hung If so, have you sealed them with wall sealer? horizontally. If hanging over lining paper, Applying wall sealer, also known as wall size, hanging it in the opposite direction to the lining seals the porous surface of the wall and impaper means that the seams won’t fall in the proves the adhesion of the wallpaper paste. same place and create ridges.

It also aids the slide of the wallpaper, useful when you’re matching patterns or hanging it Does the walls have any fixing on them? in awkward areas like window recesses.

If so, unscrew the fixings before papering, leaving the wall plugs in place. Mark the Have you lined the walls with lining position of each one by pushing a matchstick paper? (with the head broken off) into the plug. Leave Hanging lining paper prevents the new it slightly proud so you can find the hole and wallpaper from shrinking when it’s hung, reuse it later. Also its recommended that the which leads to gaps between the lengths first piece of paper you hang starts from the of paper. You may also want to hang lining corner that the window or door is in so any paper if your walls have any stains or small joins are hidden from view. imperfections in the surface, as it will help to disguise this.

Happy hanging folks!

20

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This year’s Bristol Young Heroes have had their bravery and hard work recognised and celebrated at a star-studded awards ceremony.

On Friday 1st October over 300 guests gathered at We The Curious for a glitzy gala awards evening to celebrate the 2021 Bristol Young Heroes Awards and see the winners announced. Hosted by former BBC Bristol presenter Emma Britton, the event saw 12 awards given out for astonishing acts of compassion, good deeds and courage.

The night was truly spectacular, and fitting with the carnival theme. We saw a wonderful performance from one of our finalists; Razzamataz and an engaging display of Samba drummers and dancers from our friends at Bristol Samba.

And the Winner is...

Among the award winners on the night were Megan and Grace who were walking home from school when they witnessed an awful road traffic accident. Despite the terrible scene in front of them, both girls stayed and were able to support those injured whilst also calling for help. The girls saved the lives of multiple people that day.

CJ Fitton won the overall Young Hero 2021 Award for her ability to overcome a series of extremely challenging personal circumstances and issues, and to come out the other side.

Nominated by Youth Moves, she has been working and campaigning to improve the situation for other young people in a similar position, improving the accessibility of mental health support.

Another winner, Gabe Rusenieks is a passionate member of Young Bristol’s Kayak club. Since joining in 2020 Gabe has made tremendous progress on the water despite being partially sighted. Gabe has overcome this barrier to continue to develop and grow in an activity that he loves, and is now a key member of the group who also supports others to feel more confident on the water.

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Full list of Sponsors, Award Presenters and Winners as follows: Action Hero – Sponsored by Avon & Somerset Police – Presented by Cllr Asher Craig – Winner: Dwayne Mclaren Arts & Culture Hero- Sponsored by Water 2 Business- Presented by Will Hamilton-Davies – Winner: Mariama Sanneh Caring Hero – Sponsored by BOM IT solutions- Presented by Joe Sims- Winner: Louis Pang Covid Hero – Sponsored by National Lottery Community Fund – Presented by Peaches Golding OBE – Winner: Erika Wintle Enterprise Hero- Sponsored by First Class Comms – Presented by Briony Williams – Winner: Shelena Artman Environmental Hero- Sponsored by Elmtree Garden Contractors Ltd – Presented by Martha Chillcott – Winner: Bradley Ford Learning Hero - Sponsored by UWE (University of the West of England) BristolPresented by Steve West CBE – Winner: RJ Gingell Sporting Hero - Sponsored by Lancer Scott – Presented by Lauren Filer – Winner: Gabe Rusenieks Super Hero - Sponsored by Bristol Water – Presented by Meg Abernethy-Hope – Winner: Megan & Grace Elder Team of Heroes – Sponsored by UES building service contractors – Presented by the Bristol Gulls – Winner: St George House High Sheriff Award – Sponsored by Mobius works – Presented by Bristol High Sheriff, Sue Davies – Winner: Jade Bailey Overall Young Hero - Sponsored by GKN Aerospace – Presented by Stephen Cowan – Winner: CJ Fitton

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Take a break and try to solve theses puzzles Here are this weeks puzzles designed to test your mental skills during your lunch break or after tea.

Click the download symbol below to download our puzzles to your phone or computer and complete at your own leisure.

The answers will be published on our website every Thursday afternoon.

Good luck!

Black Thick Art Biography Concept Last Transaction Scream Cool Celebration Lunch Sun Colorful Cute White Attraction Leader Tribe Payment Deviation 24

Word Search

Sudoku

EASY

HARD

MEDIUM

EXTREME

7 differences between these two pictures. Are your eyes good enough to see them all?

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NOVEMBER HOROSCOPES Aquarius Jan 20-Feb 18 If something seems trickier than at first seemed, don’t get upset or frustrated, just stop and try to see it from all angles. If you have a gut feeling about something, try to follow it at this time as it stands in good stead. Be kind to yourself and be sensitive to your own needs.

Keywords. Intuition and be kind to yourself.

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 You may get some new ideas for ways of sorting out difficult situations. Work with your intuition if possible, try to see other people’s perspectives. Try stepping back from things if they seem a little difficult, sometimes a different view with things make things seem clearer.

Keywords. New ideas, intuition and review.

Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19 Some changes could be about to come your way. If they’re not really to your liking, try and see them more as challenges, and look for opportunities within them. Remember that you have your own values, and don’t be shaken from these, but don’t be too hard on yourself either keywords Changes and opportunities

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Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 You may be thinking of starting a new interest. It could be quite a sociable time coming up this month. Trying to be a listening ear, more than giving advice, you will be surprised how much people will appreciate it.

Keywords. Study and sociability

Gemini May 21 - June 20 There could be some changes on the way, so don’t be surprised if you come up with new ideas, or interests. You may need to be a bit flexible with other people and think before you speak, and try to be sensitive to other’s feelings.

Keywords. Changes, flexibility and sensitivity.

Cancer June 21 - July 22 There could be some things that feel as though they are being held up right now, be aware and look out for opportunities that may help to sort these hold-ups, so that things will begin to flow freely again. It may also be worth stepping back and looking at the achievements you’ve made this year, and what other things you would like to achieve next.

Keywords. Opportunities and goals

Leo July 23 - Aug 22

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21

You may otherwise miss opportunities that could be nearby. It does seem some things will be moving forward even if they have felt on hold for a while.

Keywords. Balance and opportunities

Relationships seem prominent, along with your home environment. You may find there are some new interests, or ideas that come to mind for you at this time. Be open to other people’s ideas or suggestions, Try to be aware of being calm, and fair-minded in dealing with others.

Keywords. New ideas and fairness.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21

Libra Sept 23 - Oct 22

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19Home and close relationships are prominent for you at this time. It seems as though there are a lot of things that need to be done, and a lot of people wanting your time and attention. Try and seek balance for yourself.

Somethings may not feel that they are running as smooth as they should, try and keep calm, and know that things don’t stay the same, Keywords. Home, relationships and balance.

If Life seems a little trying see if there are other ways of dealing with things, to make life easier.

You are often fair-minded with others, but can be quite hard on yourself. Don’t underestimate yourself; value yourself as well as others.

Keywords Find easier Ways, and make time for you

You may have noticed your vitality is little sluggish at the moment, if so, may be time to review lifestyle habits. Any cutbacks are just a little tweak here and there that should make some difference. Try not to let things build up, or take up too much of your time, Try and listen to your intuition.

Keywords Changes, intuition

It would be useful if you pay attention to your intuition, certainly in regards any situations that may be a little difficult. Try not to let anyone sway you from things that you have strong values about, and keep your integrity that there could be some changes on the way.

Keywords. Integrity and changes

Disclaimer This zodiac is for entertainment purposes only please do not take the predictions seriously Marie take no responsibility for your actions

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Bristol begins it’s campaign for plasma donors as the Bristol centre is only 39% full each day NHS adverts are going live in Bristol because there are not enough people donating plasma.

Plasma is used to make lifesaving medicines but the Bristol donor centre in Southmead Road is only around 39% full each day, with around 45 appointments going empty every week.

The adverts, across social media and public places, will be part of a sustained campaign to drive up donor numbers over the next six months.

The NHS relies on imported plasma medicines however global supplies are under long standing pressure due to rising demand.

The pressure has increased due to coronavirus affecting donation in the USA. NHS Blood and Transplant started taking donations this year to bolster long term UK supplies but the number of donors is far behind target.

Plasma donation is new and research shows only two in ten people know about it.

Awareness is low because plasma donation restarted in April after a break of more than 20 years. (1) The 11 new plasma donor centres are in Barnsley, Birmingham, Bolton, Bristol, Chelmsford, Croydon, Manchester, Reading, Stockton, Stratford, and Twickenham.

Plasma is used to make medicines full of donor antibodies which fight bacterial and viral infections.

This medicine, known as immunoglobulin, is used to strengthen or stabilise the immune systems of people with rare, lifethreatening diseases.

Around 740 people in the South West region received immunoglobulins last year.

Alison Dent, Bristol Plasma Donor Centre Manager, said: “Plasma is a powerful, lifesaving part of your blood, which can be used to make unique, lifesaving medicines.

“Since donation restarted we’ve had many fantastic people come in to donate but we still see too many empty chairs every day.

“We need your help.

“In the next few months, we need thousands more people to start donating at our donor centre.

“Plasma donation is safe and easy, it doesn’t take long, and you will help save and improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in the country.”

The campaign will headline with the message that plasma is ‘the medicine in you’, emphasising that for some patients there is no alternative treatment is available.

Plasma makes up most of your blood. It’s the fluid that carries everything around the body, including the antibodies which can help the recipient fight infections.

Plasma donation is similar to blood donation.

In plasma donation, your blood is gradually run through a machine which separates out some of your plasma. Your red blood cells are returned to you, so you can carry on with your day as normal.

To help save lives by donating plasma, call 0300 123 23 23, search ‘donate plasma’ or visit www.blood.co.uk/plasma

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The garden begins to wind down

The garden begins to wind down in November as deciduous plants enter dormancy. leaves are falling rapidly and wind and rain are on the increase.

Tie in all the plants and secure structures an important winter job is to stake tall plants, climbers and young trees to protect against strong winds. Check that existing ties are not cutting into stems of plants that have grown over the summer. Structures such as arches, pergolas and fences should also be checked and ideally treated with preservatives. If repaired now there is less potential damage in high winds.

Whilst most of nature is hibernating in the colder months, winter is the ideal time to get new trees into the ground. trees are best planted in the late autumn when the soil is still warm but not too dry, giving roots time to acclimatise before the harsher temperatures of winter arrives. whatever your plan to do outside in Nonmember, take time to enjoy the LOOKING GOOD THIS MONTH...TREES garden as it fades, leaving structural plants Why should you plant them? and evergreens to take centre stage.

PROTECT TENDER PLANTS the weather is turning so its time to get those plants protected - frost can do serious damage to tender plants. Frost tender plants in pots should be moved to the greenhouse, conservatory or porch. Exotic plants such as palms or tree ferns should be wrapped up for the winter with frost protection material.

LIFT AND STORE CORMS AND TUBERS Lift and store plants such as dahlias and tuberous bedding begonias that have been hit by bad weather. store in a dry, frost-free dark place ideally in a layer of sawdust. Check occasionally over winter to ensure they are dry and rot free. remove any that look suspicious to prevent the risk of further infection.

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Trees add structure to gardens and landscapes. As well as being used as a focal point for the garden they also make good hedges and screens. they come in a huge number of varieties, shades and position. Whilst most trees are grown for there foliage or flower, some are praised for their bark and branch shapes. Some trees look fantastic in spring while full of flower and other burst into vibrant colour in the autumn.

How should you plant them?

Young trees should be staked diagonally.

This protects them from strong winds and ensures the roots do not get damaged. Most varieties of trees will have specific planting instructions. There is a tree that will thrive in all soil types from wet soil to poor dry land and everything in between.

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