Family Matters October 2019 | Mid-Somerset edition

MID SOMERSET EDITION

ISSUE 67 • OCTOBER 2019

keeping pets safe during the fireworks

school news

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

what's on this halloween

WELCOME Well would you look at that, school has only just started and yet you’re already half way through your first term of the school year! Well done you!

For many people, autumn is their favourite season, the leaves start changing colour and there are loads of great events taking place like Carnival, Bonfire Night and of course, the lead up to Christmas (we’re sorry about mentioning the C word... but speaking of, we have a few tips to help those of you who are thinking about getting started on your preparations in this issue!).

Don’t forget to check out the What’s On pages for a whole host of great events that are going on over the half term holiday and be sure to keep yourself and your pets safe during firework displays, we have a couple of tips in this issue to help you do just that!

If you want to appear in our next issue, don’t forget to send us news of your achievements, we love hearing from you whether on social media (you can find us on Facebook and Twitter @ukfamilymatters) or by email, news@ignyte-uk.co.uk. We’re always amazed to see all the incredible things you achieve and love to share them, so please do submit your photos to our website and look out for yourself in next issue’s WOW feature!

For now though, enjoy half term and we hope you have fun watching the seasons change and taking part in all the exciting events that are coming up!

p11 carnival

time!

p4 are you worried your child is being bullied? p24 treating an

p26 mysteries of

allergy or injury

the body explained

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Are you worried that your child might be being bullied?

IT’S A UNIVERSAL WORRY FOR ALL PARENTS – is my child being bullied and if so, what can I do about it? The thing about bullying is that it can take many forms, especially these days with social media becoming a bigger part of our children’s lives, so it can be difficult to spot and even harder to define.

There’s no one universal sign to indicate that your child might be having problems with bullies either, though there are a few things that you can look out for and speak to your child about.

In some cases, children will come forward and speak to a teacher, family member or other friends if they are feeling harassed but many will keep it to themselves.

If a child or another adult comes to you to tell you that your child is having problems, make sure to approach them in a calm manner and ask them about their experiences. If you can, compile a folder of screen shots from social media accounts or text messages from bullies, this can help you when you then speak to the school as they can not only deal with the issue itself, but also use this as a way of educating other children about bullying and cyber bullying.

More often than not though, children will keep these kinds of problems to themselves, which can make it difficult for you to help them. There are a few behaviours that you can look out for such as a reluctance to go to school, frequent and unexplained illnesses/headaches or anxiety the night before school starts. Parents have also reported their children becoming withdrawn and quiet as well as noticing their belongings being missing or damaged.

The worst thing you, as a parent, can do is panic. If you’ve noticed your child displaying an unusual behaviour or they have come to you with a problem, you will need to remain as calm as possible when you speak to them.

Finding out your child is in distress is upsetting, but you will need to be strong and support them. Children learn from their parents, so you don’t want them to see you getting angry or panicked, as this could encourage them to retaliate in a way that could get them into trouble.

Reassure your child that you are here to support them 4 |

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and make sure that they are happy with you approaching the school or other parents before you do so. The only time you should go straight to the school before talking it over with your child is if you fear that they or someone else is in serious and immediate danger – otherwise you could run the risk of your child feeling like you’ve betrayed their trust and you don’t want to give them a reason not to come to you with problems in the future.

It can be hard for parents to find out that their child has been accused of bullying too. The important thing to remember is that anyone can be a bully and some children might not even realise that what they are doing is being interpreted in this way. There is often a specific trigger when it comes to children becoming bullies so talk the issue through with them in a calm and clear way so that everyone understands what is and isn’t acceptable.

A great way to approach the subject of bullying without making your child feel like you’re accusing them or prying, is to get involved with Anti-Bullying Week 2019.

Anti-Bullying Week happens in schools all across Britain each November, this year the event is happening from 11th-15th November and Monday, 11th November is Odd Socks Day where everyone is encouraged to wear odd socks to raise awareness for anti-bullying schemes. It is likely that the school is already planning workshops and discussions around bullying for this week, but you can also talk about it with your children at home.

Remember:

If you think that your child is showing serious signs of distress such as depression, anxiety or self-harm, visit your GP without delay. We would always encourage parents to involve their children when talking about bullying, but it can have a serious impact on their health, so do intervene sooner if you are worried about their health in any way.

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WWW.HOLBURNE.ORG

FREE FAMILY DROP-INS Tuesday 29 and Wednesday 30 October 10.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30 – 3.30pm MUSEUMS WEEK: Totally Tree-mendous FREE for residents of B&NES on production of a valid Discovery Card Inspired by Candace Bahouth’s mosaic ‘totem trees’, create a collaged mosaic-style tree from images of birds, bugs and flowers on the Holburne’s pottery collection.

During Museums Week (Sat 24 October to Sun 1 November) entry to the Holburne will be FREE for residents of B&NES, on production of a valid Discovery Card.

Book online – www.holburne.org or call 01225 388568 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB

Why do we celebrate BonFire

Night?

"Remember, remember the fifth of November Gunpowder treason and plot We so no reason Why gunpowder treason Should ever be forgot."

No doubt you will have heard the rhyme and will have started noticing adverts going up for local fireworks displays and fireworks appearing in the shops ready for bonfire night, but why do we celebrate it?

Bonfire Night and the burning of an effigy of Guy Fawkes is a tradition that has been in place since the 1600s in the UK and it all stems from a failed plot to kill King James I by blowing up the Houses of Parliament with gunpowder hidden beneath the building.

During the reign of Henry VIII, he changed the UK’s main religion from Catholic to Protestant in order to obtain a divorce, but in doing so created a difficult atmosphere for years to come. The monarchs that came after him would swap back and forth from Protestant to Catholic and by the time that James I came to power, those that followed Catholicism were being persecuted. He ordered all Catholic priests to leave England and many that were caught practicing the religion were sentenced to death. A group of conspirators, which included Guy Fawkes, came up with a plan to kill King James I and support his daughter, Elizabeth, who was only nine at the time, to claim the crown in the hope that they could shape her into being Catholic.

In all there were twelve people involved in the Gunpowder Plot. The group rented out a house located right next to the Houses of Parliament and smuggled 36 barrels of gunpowder into the cellar of the House of Lords!

Guy Fawkes wasn’t the leader of the group, but the reason we all remember him is because he was the one who was in charge of lighting the gunpowder and as such, was caught red handed. In fact, he was the first of the group to have been captured and for two days, was thought to be the only person involved in the plot. Guy Fawkes was imprisoned in the Tower of London and visitors can find graffiti he left in his cell prior to his death.

After the plot was foiled, the people of London started lighting bonfires to celebrate the survival of the King and the following year, an Act of Parliament named November 5th as a day of thanksgiving so everyone could celebrate the fact that the King wasn’t harmed.

Ever since then, the whole country has come together to remember the 5th November, celebrating Bonfire Night with fire works displays and the burning of effigies of Guy Fawkes.

Are you planning to attend a firework display this year? Many of them are used as a way to raise money for local charities, so keep an eye out and support your local display. If you plan to have your own bonfire night celebration at home, make sure to stand well back from the fireworks and to keep water on hand. Also make sure not to handle any of the fireworks with bare hands and to ensure that a responsible adult takes care of the lighting of each one!

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October Half Term Fun at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells 26th October - 4th November This October Half Term join in a week of all things Autumnal at The Bishop’s Palace.

The Half Term Leaf Trail will begin on 26th October and continue until 4th November. Children will be encouraged to explore the range of trees around the site and collect leaves of different types to collect their sticker prize at the end of their visit.

On Tuesday 29th October from 10:30am-3pm the popular Crafty Cats session, held in the Undercroft, will involve making scarecrow hats and woolly autumn apples, and on Thursday 31st October from

11am-3pm, the Nature Ninjas family garden-based sessions will be based on an autumnal gardening theme, with activities involving autumn garden fun.

All activities are included with standard admission.

To finish the Half Term, why not head along to the Christmas Artisan Markets from 1st-3rd November, to get your Christmas shopping started in style, with over 40 artisan stalls selling unique gifts from the heart of the West Country. Special reduced entrance price: £6 Adults, £3 children 5-18, FREE under 5’s and Palace Members.

OPEN DAILY

Join us this October Half Term for a new, leaf-themed family trail, Tuesday family craft activities, and Thursday gardening fun. Make use of The Dragon's Lair Play Area and relax in our family-friendly Cafe.

crafty cats 29th oct 10:30-3 nature ninjas 31st oct 11-3

The Bishop's Palace, Wells, Somerset BAS 2 PD 01749 988111 www.bishopspalace.org.uk

How to keep pets safe and happy during

Fireworks Season While you now know the history of bonfire night and are no doubt excited about heading out to watch a fireworks display, if you have pets, you’ll know that this season isn’t a pleasant time for them. These days, bonfire night isn’t just the 5th November, there are displays held at several points in the month, so for dogs, cats, rabbits and more, it can be a very stressful time.

Here are a few suggestions to help your pets stay safe and happy during firework displays.

For indoor pets

For outdoor pets

For pets that primarily live indoors such as dogs, cats and any other creatures, make sure that they are inside on the nights you think there might be fireworks let off nearby. Of course, we can’t always tell if our neighbours or homes nearby choose to have their own display, but for any organised public events, we will have had plenty of notice.

Some of us might have pets that live outdoors such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens etc.

Where possible, it is advised to bring them indoors when you know there are going to be fireworks – we know that isn’t always possible, but if you have a shed, garage or conservatory for instance that you can put them in during fire work displays, this will help.

Shut windows and doors - this not only helps muffle the sound, but will prevent your pet from running away and getting lost if they get spooked.

When moving an outdoor animal inside for the night, make sure to bring them in their hutch or pen so that they aren’t overwhelmed by new surroundings on top of the noise.

Make sure blinds and curtains are closed.

Make sure that there is somewhere for them to hide that they feel safe and comfortable in.

Try putting on the TV or radio and talking to them normally so they are distracted by more familiar noises.

Soundproof their cage by putting a breathable blanket over the top.

Give them some extra bedding or a space that they can hide if they do get scared that will help them feel a little more comfortable.

Don’t get angry with them or make a fuss if they are unsettled as this will heighten their distress, just give them some space and act normally.

Do you have any other tips for keeping animals safe and happy during firework displays?

You can share your suggestions online on Facebook and Twitter, find us @ukfamilymatters ukfamilymatters |

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Image courtesy of Somerset Carnivals

Carnival Time!

As the nights get colder and darker, we know that it isn’t all doom and gloom because Carnival is just around the corner. In this part of the world there are plenty of carnival displays to keep you entertained featuring floats, bright lights, dancers and amazing costumes.

Carnival season runs from October into November, just when you need something to get your excitement up before Christmas. Whichever carnival you choose to visit, check the route, arrive in good time as roads will be closed along the route, dress warm and be prepared for big crowds. Also, make sure your pockets are full of loose change as carnival is all about charity and any small donations will be gratefully received.

2019 CARNIVAL DATES Ilminster

Saturday 5th October

Chard

Saturday 12th October

Taunton

Saturday 19th October

Bridgwater

Saturday 2nd November

Burnham on Sea

Monday 4th November

Weston-super-Mare

Friday 8th November

North Petherton

Saturday 9th November

Midsomer Norton

Monday 11th November

Shepton Mallet

Wednesday 13th November

Wells

Friday 15th November

Glastonbury

Saturday 17th November

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Enter now at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

Win Prizes

Win a family ticket to the 'Xmas at Cheddar Experience' Little did you know that deep within Cheddar Gorge, Father Christmas has deployed his elves to help with the demand of all that is Christmas. Go behind the scenes and even meet the man himself who will be stopping off to ensure his operations are up to scratch.

You’re sure to have a merry old time with this authentic experience as you sing some songs, receive a special gift and listen to the festive tale that explains how Christmas at Cheddar came to be. Your Day Ticket also includes all the other attractions such as Beyond the View: a cinematic journey through the gorge, Dreamhunters at Cox’s Cave, the Museum of Prehistory, Jacob’s Ladder and Cliff-top Walk.

Win a family ticket to see Snow White Mirror, Mirror on the wall, what's the greatest pantomime of them all?

Don't miss the spectacular, fun-packed, family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! The show promises to be exceptional entertainment with strong casting, stunning costumes and scenery and a genuinely funny script. The tickets for the show will be on Sunday 8 December at 11am.

Win a Family Day ticket to the 'Festival of Light at Longleat' Join Longleat on a thrilling odyssey this winter, as the renowned Festival of Light returns for its sixth year. The much-anticipated festive lantern spectacle will showcase ‘Myths and Legends’. It draws inspiration from epic stories from around the world; from the gods and magical beings of ancient Greece, to heroic tales of British folklore.

New for 2019, gaze in awe at the breathtaking choreographed light projection on Longleat House – the iconic frontage of the stately home will spring to life as never before. Book online and save up to 15%.

Win a family Winter Wonderland ticket Wookey Hole will have you feeling festive with over a thousand lights illuminating the caves for a magical tour!

The Christmas Circus Show will wow you with glitzy performers delivering a show stopping line-up of trapeze, hula, juggling and magic!

Wander through the Grotto and be greeted by the elves before meeting the man himself!

Santa will be checking off his nice list with a gift for every child who pays him a visit. The 4D festive cinema will be showing ‘Happy Feet’, a family favourite for all ages.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING THESE FANTASTIC PRIZES, simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk, click on the Competitions button and complete the form. It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: 15th November 2019

what’s on 12th October - 31st October Farrington's Pumpkin Festival Come along and pick your own pumpkin. It’s FREE entry to the pumpkin fields, just pay for the pumpkins you pick. www.farringtons.co.uk 19th October - 5th November Raven’s story wands As the raven tells his tale of Stourhead, families are invited to gather natural objects and weave them into their own special story using natural 'story wands'. Stourhead, Wiltshire.

19th October Trowbridge Carnival Procession Come along and lend your support by donating generously - the procession starts from Canal Road at 7pm, continuing through the town and ending at Cradle Bridge. Time: 7pm to 8:30pm.

19th October HorseWorld Charity Open Day Meet the horses, staff and volunteers on our working rescue yard. Free entry and free parking.

HorseWorld Trust, Staunton Lane, Whitchurch, Bristol.

19th October - 3rd November Halloween Trail: The Curious Case of Mildred Hester Become a detective as you search high and low, crack the riddles and solve the mystery of Mildred’s disappearance. www.hestercombe.com/event/halloween-trail/ 23rd October - 3rd November A Halloween Tale This Halloween, get ready for some ghostly goings on at

Cheddar Gorge & Caves. Some infamous literary figures have come to life and taken up residence inside Gough’s Cave.

Can you help Cheddar’s detective duo solve this mystery? www.cheddargorge.co.uk 24th October - 1st November Museums Week at Holburne Museum: Totally Tree-mendous Create a collaged mosaic-style tree from images of birds, bugs and flowers based on the Holburne’s pottery collection. During Museums Week entry to the Holburne will be FREE for residents of B&NES, on production of a valid Discovery Card. www.holburne.org 26th October Heavy Horse Day Meet George and Bertie two Suffolk Punch horses who are visiting us for the day from Steel Suffolks. Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury.

26th October - 3rd November Great British Autumn Bring your friends and family together with sensational seasonal activities and discover the astonishing kingdom of Longleat. Join a spine-chilling tour of Longleat House, which will take you through unseen cellars, eerie attics and dark corridors. You’ll hear all about Longleat’s ghostly residents and maybe even see a few. www.longleat.co.uk/whats-on/the-great-british-autumn 26th October - 4th November Half Term Fun at The Bishop’s Palace Join a week of all things Autumnal at The Bishop’s Palace.

Children will be encouraged to explore the range of trees around the site and collect leaves of different types to collect

For further information about each event

their sticker prize at the end of their visit. www.bishopspalace.org.uk 26th October - 3rd November Have half-term fun at Avebury Fun family trail in the Old Farmyard Avebury has a real sense of mystery at this time of the year; the monuments keep their secrets and the lives of people long past echo through the ages. nationaltrust.org.uk/Avebury 27th October Pumpkins on the Platform Somerset and Dorset Railway, Silver St, Midsomer Norton.

28th October - 1st November Spooky Puxton Park!

Throw some scary shapes at the Halloween disco... Count the legs in the Creepy Critter Show... Check out the slithering snakes and the beautiful bugs! It’s all going on at Puxton Park this October Half-term! Puxton.co.uk

28th October - 2nd November Sea Dragons of Street 19 large ichthyosaur fossils will be on display, as well a selection of smaller fossils found in the local area. Known as ‘sea dragons’, ichthyosaurs were dolphin-like marine reptiles which swam in the warm seas which covered Somerset around 200 million years ago. alfredgilletttrust.org 28th October - 1st November Stop, Look and List In Help our Ranger team survey our wildlife.

Grab your pocket ranger booklet from reception and go on a wildlife hunt, making notes of what you spot along the way.

Montacute House, Somerset.

30th October Model making with Aardman Participants receive a step-by-step demonstration by an expert model maker from the Aardman studio, and discover how to craft a Gromit model to take home.

Montacute House, Somerset.

31st October After Dark… in the Animal Park Jump aboard our spooky Ghost Train, where you'll take a ride around our Animal Park in the darkness. You'll come face to face with some friendly faces, and a few scary ones too. After the fun and frights of your journey, you can enjoy a 2 course evening supper. Hope Nature Centre, Trowbridge.

31st October Family Fun: Naturally Nocturnal As the nights draw in, get creative with crafts and activities based on creatures of the night including owls, mice, rabbits and bats! Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury.

1st November The Little Prince The Little Prince is brought to life using Protein’s awardwinning mix of dance, humour and spoken word. Find out how the Little Prince leaves behind his own tiny asteroid and beloved rose and journeys through the universe, coming face to face with the baffling world of grown-ups! Have you ever heard of a king who reigns over nothing? Or a businessman obsessively counting stars? www.edgearts.org/whats-on 30th November Puxton's Annual Grand Light Switch On The star of the show will be the 40ft Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights and traditional decorations. To make the event even more magical, Father Christmas and Mrs. Claus will be there to meet all of the children. www.puxton.co.uk 30th November - 1st December Elf Hunt Farrington’s is teaming up with Elf in the House to bring the best Christmas experience to the South West. This cheeky event is fun for all the family. Forget Santa this is all about the elves! www.farringtons.co.uk

please visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

CARVE THE BEST PUMPKIN

!

N E E W O L L A THIS H Carving vegetables into scary faces then lighting them is an odd kind of custom that just must have interesting roots.

The Irish do not disappoint. Folks there have a legend of a drunken farmer, whose dealings with the devil led to him being turned back at both the gates of heaven and hell upon his death. Forced to wander the darkness of purgatory, Jack made an o'lantern from a turnip and lump of burning coal to guide his lost soul. Every Halloween, communities in Ireland would craft their own turnip lamps to scare him and other wayward spirits away.

Use these ideas to carve your very own scary pumpkin.

Dare we mention the C word…?

We know, we know, it is only just getting into autumn, we shouldn’t even be thinking about Christmas just yet, even if supermarkets are starting to put out their decorations and dropping the odd Christmas themed song into their playlists. Despite how annoying it is for Christmas to be forced on us too early, it pays to be prepared for the holiday season as you can easily save money and time by keeping one step ahead of everyone else.

Here are five top reasons to get started on your shopping early.

YOU CAN RELAX AND ENJOY THE FESTIVE SEASON Look, we know that this can be a super stressful time if you’re a parent. Fighting your way through crowds to get the food or the presents and having to stress about making your day as perfect as possible. If you get a head start though and are prepared, you can avoid all that stress and actually enjoy yourself and spend time with your loved ones instead of worrying about whether you have enough food or the must have gift of the year.

GET YOUR CARDS SORTED With the emphasis on recycling it is becoming rarer and rarer to receive and send cards, but it is always nice to let people know you’re thinking of them with a card. Getting yourself prepared early means that you can beat the rush for the Christmas post!

YOU CAN SPREAD THE COST Aside from the Christmas Wish Lists that seem to grow every year, the lead up to the festive season is an expensive month for most families. The change in the weather and the darker days mean that we’re all using more energy and electricity, plus as December hits and the decorations go up, that’s even more being added to your monthly bills. That’s not even counting the extra food. Being prepared and getting started on your preparations as early as possible means that you can spread the cost.

MORE TIME TO PARTY! The festive season is full of parties, work parties, visiting friends and family... It can be tough fitting everything in, especially if you leave things later in the month, so starting early can free yourself up to enjoy the celebrations. Christmas is supposed to be a holiday after all.

SET AND STICK TO BUDGETS If you leave your shopping for gifts, decorations or even food for the big day until the last minute, you can find that prices start to fluctuate and you can spend more than you’d like in a panic to get the right things. By getting prepared, you can set budgets and stick to them because things won’t be in such high demand.

As well as all that, think of the satisfaction! There is nothing better than knowing that everything is ready and you can relax and enjoy yourself!

++++ The Observer

++++

“Charming, imaginative and playful�

The Stage

Fri 1 Nov, 6.30pm

01225 386777 edgearts.org

design: www.snowcreative.co.uk photos: Chris Nash performer: Faith Prendergast

The classic tale reimagined on stage for children and their grown-ups

T

AKING CHILDREN T N O TO IPS

E H A T TRE E V I L

A visit to the theatre can be a life-changing experience, as well as an opportunity for a unique kind of learning.

It can touch the imagination, arouse curiosity, or fire an artistic impulse in your child Typically, toddlers through age 4 do best with shows that include lots of opportunities for participation and are short 30 to 50 minutes. Many older children can enjoy a longer children’s play - 60 to 75 minutes. Also, audiences of shows created for children will expect some noise and wiggling - it’s all part of the experience!

It’s a good idea to get a seat near the aisle. This will be helpful in case you need to leave the theatre for any reason (remember: their bladders are smaller than yours!).

BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME

WE DID IT – AND IT WAS AMAZING.

What to wear? Depending on the show, you’re likely to see audience members in all manner of apparel, from jeans to dress clothes. We always recommend children wear what they’ll feel comfortable in. Some kids enjoy a chance to dress up. But if a T-shirt and jeans are more their style, then go for it. Don’t let a battle over clothing spoil your day.

Hooray! Try following up on your outing by reading a related book or planning an art, music, or dance project.

Provide dress-up clothes, props, and other materials so children can re-enact the performance - or create their own, unique one!

If you must bring a snack for your child, make it a “quiet” one that’s easy to enjoy independently. Sweet wrappers or crunchy crisps can be surprisingly loud and leave sticky treats like chewing gum at home.

ARRIVING AT THE THEATRE Arrive 20 to 30 minutes before your show time. This gives you time to park and walk into the building, hang up your coats, use the toilet, take a look around and find your seats (theatre doors open 30 minutes prior to most shows).

Show your appreciation and enthusiasm for the performance by providing close, quiet attention, as well as participation and applause at the proper times. Remind kids that part of being a good audience member is not talking or getting up during a performance unless it’s a real emergency. And, remember to watch your child’s face as they see characters come to life on stage. You will cherish these memories!

“HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM!” Sometimes it’s just not the right day for sitting quietly. It’s okay to excuse yourself when your little one’s attention has run out. Try taking a stroll out to the reception, sometimes a little break is all it takes. An usher can help you re-join the show later. If all else fails, chalk it up to experience and try again another day.

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SPREAD SOME HIGH ST. LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS! For many of us, we believe that the absolute best deals can only be found online. However, you might be surprised to see just how competitive the prices are in your local shops and businesses. Find out what your local area can offer you first, before checking online.

The great thing about independent businesses is that they are run by local people You can’t beat the personal touch of an owner who knows most people in the neighbourhood. Building relationships between owner and customer goes further than just a purchase. Some local shops will stock goods based on their own customer’s choices, so you can find what you want rather than finding what they want to sell you.

Some local businesses will actually help shape the identity of the local community. A high street filled with unique, vibrant and colourful shops will attract more footfall and make a more popular and financially healthier place in which to live and work.

You can make a huge impact on your local high street even if you just spend £10.

Why not visit your local high street on Small Business Saturday (Sat 7th Dec), do some Xmas shopping and spread some Christmas joy to local businesses.

Small Business Saturday UK is a non-commercial campaign, which highlights small businesses and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support small businesses in their communities. The day itself takes place on the first Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses.

ce and sales

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....in tune with your needs Open by informal appointments only, including evenings and Sundays. Please call us 07866 464547. sales@abbeypianoservices.co.uk www.abbeypianoservices.co.uk ukfamilymatters |

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HANDY TIPS FOR TREATING AN INJURY OR ALLERGY Having some knowledge of First Aid is always a great skill to have and while we can’t qualify you to be a First Aider, these tips will help if there is an emergency and you’re waiting for a First Aider or the emergency services to arrive.

It isn’t recommended to do CPR or give mouth to mouth or offer any medical advice if you haven’t had formal training unless absolutely necessary - so if you are in a situation where you feel unsure about anything or it is more than you can handle, make sure to alert someone and get help as a first priority - sometimes just sitting with an injured person and

talking to them is the best thing for them until help arrives.

It is always a good idea to take note of any defibrillators you might notice so you know where they are in an emergency.

If you end up having to use a defibrillator, when you call 999 the operator will be able to tell you where your nearest one is and how to access it. The machine itself will talk you through every step of the way and of course, the operator will stay on the line with you until help arrives.

If you find yourself in a situation which isn’t that serious but you’re waiting for a First Aider or other help, here are a few things you can do to support someone with an injury.

Make sure any situation is safe before you try and offer help and support - if you can see broken glass, live wires or anything else that could endanger you and the injured person move to a safe place to call for help and only attempt to help them once you’re sure there is no risk to yourself or them. A professional will be thankful that you are there and assessing the scene, so don’t feel like you’re not helping by not getting involved.

Bleeds - most bleeds that you’re likely to come across will be shallow and superficial, but if they are more substantial, you can offer some help while you wait for paramedics or the registered First Aider. Press firmly on the wound using a clean fabric, ie a towel, and raise it so it is higher than the person’s heart, but not to the extent that it will cause them further injury or discomfort.

Allergic reactions - if you know there is someone with an allergy it is always a good idea to know where they keep their medication and what the symptoms are so you can avoid a situation entirely.

If they do somehow end up being exposed to something that triggers a reaction, clear the area of the allergy trigger or remove them from the area. Get them to sit down and lean forward slightly as they will likely be experiencing some difficulty breathing. Call 999 as soon as you can and if they have an Epipen or other medication on them, administer it.

Asthma attacks – asthma is a common complaint for many children and young people. Anyone with asthma will likely have an inhaler with them at all times and will already know when to take their medication. Sometimes though, the medication isn’t enough to prevent an attack especially if they are somewhere dusty for instance. While you’re waiting for a First Aider or other help to arrive, make sure to get them to sit down and help them use their reliever inhaler as soon as you can. If they’re no better after a few minutes, get them to keep taking it every few minutes until they start to feel an improvement.

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Of course, if you come across someone who has fallen ill and you don’t have First Aid training the most important thing is to get help. Call for an ambulance and if you are somewhere like a public place or a school, raise the alarm so that the registered First Aider can come and help look after them. It is important not to move people if you can help it and to keep watch in case the situation worsens. When it comes to most injuries, use common sense, such as staunching blood flow or helping the injured person access their medication if they have it to hand. Otherwise, don’t try to be a hero, you’re helping just as much by being there, alerting someone knowledgeable and offering reassurance.

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the mysteries of your body explained You may think of your body as just skin and bones, a vehicle that gets you where you want to go, but it’s also capable of jaw-dropping feats and mysteries. When someone told us that the length of your foot matches the length of your forearm, we had to check it out, it’s true! That made us wonder what other amazing (or amusing) things we might not know.

Why we sneeze? Or how it is that yawning is contagious?

Here are just a few of the weirdest most wonderful things about the human body and why we do them.

why do we sneeze?

Put simply, sneezing is a defence mechanism which removes foreign particles that irritate the lining of our nasal passages.

We most often sneeze due to a cold sneezing eliminates bacteria - but allergies also cause sneezing and even those who do not test positive for allergic rhinitis can react to allergens by sneezing. One in three people inherit 'photic sneezing', believed to be a congenital defect, which causes sneezing on exposure to bright light.

what's the point of goose bumps?

Goose bumps occur when tiny muscles at the base of the hair follicles tighten, causing the hair to stand erect when a person is cold, scared or excited.

By observing animals, scientists concluded that we get goose bumps when cold because the hair traps air to create insulation and when in a state of high emotion - in animals - to make one appear larger and more intimidating, a leftover from our earlier incarnations.

why is yawning contagious?

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Caused by eating or drinking extremely cold substances, brain freeze or an "ice cream headache" occurs when something cold touches the roof of the mouth or is swallowed. The effect is a result of the rapid freezing and then warming of the blood vessels in the palate which nearby pain receptors send to the brain, which then reads the message as referred pain in the forehead.

why do old people get up so early?

It's a common myth that the elderly sleep less than younger adults. In fact it's a combination of earlier nights, daytime naps and a change in hormones which has pensioners down at the newsagent at the crack of dawn. Melatonin and growth hormones affect the way we sleep and a lack of both make older people tired earlier and awaken earlier. Conversely, it is the amount of melatonin in their bodies which keeps teens in bed until midday.

what makes me hiccup?

Contrary to popular belief yawning is not a sign of tiredness but designed to keep us awake by cooling the brain and helping us to work more efficiently. Therefore some scientists believe that contagious yawning is triggered by empathic mechanisms which maintain vigilance in a group.

Only half of human adults are prone to contagious yawning.

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why do milk shakes give me brain freeze?

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Excessive eating and drinking, stress or excitement can cause hiccups which scientists suggest may be caused by the fact that our distant ancestors lived in the sea. A similar system has been observed in amphibians who use the action for gill ventilation, but the fact that hiccups still exist points to the reflex's usefulness in helping mammals learn to suckle

LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

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News and Reviews SUMMER READING CHALLENGE LANDS AFTER SUCCESSFUL MISSION Over 7,000 children visited libraries across Somerset to take part in ‘Space Chase’ - this year’s national Summer Reading Challenge inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children signed up to read up to six books over the summer and received rewards for every book they read.

During the holidays over 160,000 books were read in total and hundreds of children and families took part in free events held in their local libraries such as slime making, story times, 3D printing, virtual reality, LEGO days, Nintendo Switch gaming events, and many more.

Cllr David Hall, Somerset County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries. said: “The Summer Reading challenge has been a tremendous success with active participation from across the whole of Somerset. Feedback from children and families has shown that this initiative makes a real impact to encourage reading, whilst the events and activities have raised the profile of libraries as engaging places to come and have fun!

“I would like to thank all the volunteers who were intrinsic to the success of the Challenge, an impressive 86 volunteers as well as local friends’ groups from across Somerset gave up their time to help support and give back to their local library and their local communities”.

One of the volunteers, Jack Mercer signed up to support his local library during the Summer Reading Challenge: “I enjoy the volunteering and engaging with the families. There is a lovely atmosphere in the library, the children are delightful, and the Challenge helps build their confidence. The role plays an important part in supporting children's learning - the summer

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holidays are long and a great opportunity to get everyone reading! It was lovely to see the excitement and satisfaction the children got when they reached the six books target.”

Another volunteer, Gordon Carter was the oldest volunteer in the county (at 86 years of age). Gordon explained: “This was the first time I had volunteered for the library and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience – it was lovely to be able to make a bit of a fuss of the children that came along to take part in the Challenge and encourage them to keep reading. But I also really enjoyed being with the other volunteers and I think I may have even passed on a bit of life-experience to the younger ones!”

One of the youngest Summer Reading Challenge volunteers, Rowan Packer-Hughes who often worked alongside Gordon in Taunton library added: “I was nervous about being a volunteer, but I really enjoyed it. The other volunteers were great company and I liked being able to help with a scheme that I used to do when I was younger. It was amazing how many children took part – I had no idea it was so popular.

I’m so grateful for the library giving me the opportunity to do my Duke of Edinburgh voluntary work there. It pushed me outside my comfort zone, but in a really good way. I was surprised how much I liked having a focus for my summer holidays!”

Volunteering can be a great way to learn something new and there are lots of opportunities to volunteer at libraries now the Summer Reading Challenge has ended. To find out more please contact the team at volunteer@somerset.gov.uk or through our website https://volunteering.somerset.gov.uk/

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DITCHEAT PRIMARY SCHOOL CELEBRATES EUROPEAN DAY OF LANGUAGES All of the children at Ditcheat Primary School have been celebrating different languages and cultures from around the world as part of European Day of Languages.

The youngest children focused on Wales using famous images of Welsh landscapes to play snap and Maple class looked at Italy and learned some Italian while making pizza. The year 5 and 6 children concentrated on Colombia learning some Spanish and understanding the geography of the country while Holly class looked at Finland, tasting different foods, making collage flags, learning how to count to ten and singing a Finnish folk song.

Class teacher, Dawn Knight, said: “The day was all about finding out about different cultures which allows the children to really celebrate the differences in our world.”

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DITCHEAT PRIMARY EVACUEES This term, Ditcheat Primary School have gone back in time. All of the children in years 5 and 6 had a day learning about what it was like to be an evacuee during the war as part of their topic about the Battle of Britain. The children came dressed as evacuees, wrote their labels and identity cards as well as writing home to their parents. In the afternoon, the children used an original ration recipe to make carrot cookies and learned songs from wartime. At the end of the day the parents came to the ‘station’ and chose their children to take back home.

Class teacher, Jo Crook, said 'It was a wonderful immersive day for the children, and they were able to empathise with children during the war.'

The class even created an excellent video made all about the day in a Pathé News style which can viewed on the school’s Facebook page.

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ST JOHN’S EXPLORE GLASTONBURY At St John’s school this term, the pupils are finding out all about the local area. In September, all of KS1 had a fantastic trek up to the top of Glastonbury Tor! The children delighted staff with their determination and positive attitude on the walk. They were inspired when they reached the top and staff heard lots of ‘Wow’s and ‘OOoh’s as they looked around. Following on from their experience, the children discussed what they had seen from the top of the Tor, beautiful Tor models were constructed and landmarks were drawn around their models.

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WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT Name: Teddy Age: 5 Achievement: Level 1 award in swimming, good work Teddy!

Name: Lydia In Year 5 Achievement: Won the U12’s Greenhill Gardening Gold certificate, in this year’s Frome in Bloom competition.

Well done Lydia!

Name: Casey Achievement: Success in the Cool Fab British Championships, which took place this summer. He achieved an overall first place.

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