Midsomer Norton Life Spring 2024

SPRING 2024 Issue 50

Your local community magazine

COMMUNITY NEWS reports & InforMation – FIND It ALL INSIDE

Your guide to Local Live music

SPRINgTIME QUIZZES

AND LOTS MORE

Easter Recipes INSIDE

DEDICATED TO YOUR MOTORING NEEDS! A friendly, well established Local Garage in Paulton providing General repairs, Servicing, Air conditioning, MOT testing, Diagnostics, Tyres, Wheel Alignment & Exhausts, Vehicle breakdown and recovery We also specialise in Engine ECU Remapping, Performance Tuning, Custom LONGLIFE Stainless Exhausts, Classic Car Restoration and Dinitrol Under Body Protection.

AffORDAbLE SELf-DRIvE CAR & vAN hIRE SERvICES Competitive Rates, Fully Comprehensive Insurance, Nationwide Breakdown Cover, Available for daily, weekends and weekly hire.

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Call: Email: centralgaragepaulton@gmail.com Facebook @centralgaragepaultonltd WWW.CENTRALGARAGE-PAULTON.CO.UK

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO

WALKING FOOTBALL

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AGE UK

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ALLOTMENTS

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MIDSOMER MUSIC

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Central Garage has been providing vehicle repair services in Paulton for SPRING QUIZ 9 generations. Starting with Mr Frank A Raisey, a builder, who built Central COAL SOCIETY Garage in Paulton’s High Street in 1945, to offer car and CANAL motorcycle repairs. 11 The company was taken over in 1955 by Ron Laurence, who introduced the HEDGELAYING 13 fuel filling station and Gerald Knight joined the company in 1962.

W

elcome to our first issue of 2024!

Berkeley (Berkeley Not onlyMotor is it theCompany start of a new season, full Coaches) took ownership in 1972, of amazing food, things to do and new lambs to moving thebut workshop itsof current spot in the fields, also the to start an amazing location on Ham Paulton, line up of amazing eventsLane, to look forwardand to as we adding a small fleet of hire vans, keeping get into the summer! the high street site as a car show room In thisand issue youfilling will find plentyAtofew getyears you inlater, the fuel station. springNick spiritCross, - don'tone forget, if you want to feature in of our senior technicians an upcoming getstill in touch with us on news@ started issue, and is with us now.

further, modernising the Central Hire vehicle fleet with the latest ULEZ MIDSOMER NORTON compliant vehicles and now CHURCH also offers METHODIST local vehicle breakdown and recovery SWALLOW CHARITY services.

Central Garage became a Fiat Have dealership a good Easter we'll seeGraham you in the inand 1978 and Hodges summer! joined the company as a parts manager.

On 3rd March, 1981, Gerald and Graham took over Central Garage, growing the van and car hire agency, renaming it Central Hire and expanding the workshop. Shortly after, they became an agent for Bosch Electronics and expanded the new car sales part of the business. In 1982, they modernised the filling station and later progressed into a full spar shop. @MSNLife

ignyte-uk.co.uk

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Alan Green joined the team in 2001 as an apprentice and on 3rd October 2016, @midsomernortonlife Alan and his long term friend, Mark Gainey took over the business, turning it @MidsomerLife into Central Garage (Paulton) Ltd. Since then, they have grown the business

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WEST COUNTRY RECIPES

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THE RUH'S SURGICAL TEAM

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RADIOTHERAPY LATE EFFECTS SERVICE

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TIME FOR A SPRING CLEAN

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KICK START YOUR GARDEN

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The workshop facilities have also been KEEP KIDS SAFE ONLINE 31 modernised significantly, with state of the art equipment, expanding into ALLERGY AWARENESS WEEK 33 an IMI approved performance tuning and remapping centre.

CentralB&NES Garage LIVEWELL 35 has also become a longlife custom ACTIVE WAY 36 exhaust franchise,THE known as Bath LongLife and a Dinitrol under body NEWS FROM THE STATION protection centre, offering full classic car 38 restoration services. We now have five fully qualified vehicle technicians and we continue to keep up to date with the The next edition of Midsomer Norton Life will be in May innovation of new vehicle technology, 2024. If you would like your group or organisation to be which is constantly developing. included in the next issue, please contact us on 01761

410141 or email news@ignyte-uk.co.uk before the deadline of 4th ourselves May 2024.

At Central Garage (Paulton) Ltd, we pride on our longstanding

track record of providing effective solutions a ispersonalised approach Midsomerwith Norton Life produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, Somerset, BA3 4LN Tel 01761 410141. which has built us an amazing reputation.

We would like to take this While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors opportunity to thank the people of Paulton, Midsomer Norton, Radstock and can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or Advertise in the next issue, caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, the surrounding areas for the continued damage support.

call Carmen: 01761 458192

accident or any other cause. Ignyte does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

WWW.CENTRALGARAGE-PAULTON.CO.UK

4 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Midsomer Norton Mens’ Walking Football Club

M

idsomer Norton Walking Football Group is a wellattended, friendly group of “old codgers” who enjoy each other’s company, kicking a ball about in the fresh air in all sorts of weather, before putting the world to rights over coffee.

The sport was initially aimed at men aged 50+ with no upper limit and targeted at those recovering from physical and mental illness, encouraging them to integrate and be part of a well-being group. The Midsomer Norton team was founded in 2015 by Angelo Ruiz with just a handful of players but has grown through the years and now has around 50 players on the books. Many of our players are recovering from various surgeries, cancer, hip and knee replacements and also those needing support and friendship.

We meet at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre every Tuesday and Thursday morning between 10 am and 12 noon, using two pitches for an hour session. There is a social game, which is for the less mobile and players recovering from injury and a competitive game for the more active.

As well as meeting for fun and friendship, the team also raise funds to help local causes, including purchasing a wheelchair for a local child in need and getting donations for the Midsomer Norton Food Bank.

Want to join us? In the first instance, come down to watch us in action and talk to the players, who will be delighted to welcome you to the group.

YOUR HIGH STREET

NEEDS YOU

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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AGE UK keeps Somer Valley Community Bus on the road

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ge UK Bath & North East Somerset proudly welcomes the Somer Valley Community Bus, a cherished institution with over 50 years of service, from the Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust.

This significant handover marks a legacy that has been an indispensable lifeline for hundreds of residents in the Somer Valley community. Initiated over half a century ago by the Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust, the Community Bus was created with a vision to ensure that older members of the public could continue to be fully involved in activities by attending social events and gatherings, even if physical mobility was a challenge. The service has since become an integral part of the community fabric, touching the lives of many people who rely on it month after month.

Melvyn Johnson, Chair of Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust said: "Over the past 50 years, we have witnessed its impact and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved and this is down to an incredible bunch of dedicated volunteers. Knowing that Age UK Bath & North East Somerset will continue this legacy fills me with pride. May the next 50 years bring the same sense of community and support to future generations!"

The successful transition was made possible in part by a grant from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), a testament to the recognition of the importance of this transport service.

Simon Allen, CEO of Age UK Bath & North East Somerset, said: “We are proud to take over the stewardship of this essential Community Bus service. Community Transport like this is vital for ensuring that people stay connected and can fully engage in the richness of life. They not only benefit groups of individuals but also demonstrate the unwavering commitment and dedication of volunteers that run it to the wellbeing of our community.”

Could you spare a couple of hours a month to be a Volunteer Driver?

Age UK Bath & North East Somerset is welcoming interest, so please email volunteering@ageukbanes.co.uk or call 01225 466135 for more information.

6 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GET OUTDOORS AND ACTIVE WITH AN ALLOTMENT

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llotments are a great way to get outside in the fresh air – they offer a place to relax and improve your mental health.

The Midsomer Norton Allotment Association is run on behalf of the Town Council and is well established, with a host of friendly members of all ages. Each of the plots are managed by the allotment holders’ committee, which opens up opportunities for the Association to apply for funding from other bodies, for example, we are looking to become members of the Crop Drop food charity scheme, which is a great way to give back to the local community.

There are around 70 allotments of varying sizes and we’re lucky to have mains water supply to the

site. We are affiliated to the National Allotment Society, which brings a number of benefits to members and have access to a local farmer to arrange manure drops and free access to coffee grounds, which can be used as fertaliser.

We currently have 100% occupancy with no waiting list, so if you live in Midsomer Norton and are interested in applying for a plot, please contact us or check us out on Facebook.

Get in touch via: Website - msnallotment.net E-mail - info@MSNallotments.net Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ MidsomerNortonAllotments

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Celebrate 100 years of local library services

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ithin our Centenary year, Midsomer Norton Library & Information Service will be celebrating 40 years of library services in Midsomer Norton.

The celebrations will start on Monday, 15th April for two weeks with lots of activities and events to look forward to.

We’ll be promoting our events within the library and on our social media channels, so be sure to follow us for all our upcoming plans!

You can find us at: Facebook: bneslibraries Instagram: bnes_libraries X: bnes_libraries

N’Fest returns!

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e can’t wait for N’Fest 2024 from the 19th to 23rd August - a FREE week of fun for all

ages.

Each morning, we have a kids' club for children aged 5-11 with songs, messy games, prizes, challenges, dramas, stories and more. Everyone is welcome to stay in our cafe, where there is also a crèche for 0-4 year olds.

In the afternoons/evenings, we host a range of FREE events such as quizzes, fun runs and cream teas. We would love to see you there!

To find out more, keep an eye on our website at weltonchurch.org.uk.

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WHO'S WITH ME?

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

TRaditional food to enjoy this Easter

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aster will be here soon, so why not stock up your kitchens with some of the traditional food available at this time of year?

Easter’s treats go back for centuries and some of them even link back to the origins of the festival!

How many of these Easter foods will you be enjoying this season?

Easter eggs Easter eggs as we know them only became associated with Easter in the 19th century – they were invented by Cadbury! The Cadbury brothers were inspired by an actual tradition though, at one time, real eggs were decorated at this time of year, harking back to its origins as a fertility festival.

Before being made of chocolate, the first sweet Easter eggs were covered in marzipan flowers and were filled with almonds.

Simnel Cake This delicious cake is usually eaten during Lent in the lead up to Easter. It is set apart from other fruit cakes by having 11 marzipan balls as decoration, these represent Jesus’ apostles, minus Judas. You’ll also find marzipan in the middle – so basically, traditional Easter treats are perfect for anyone who loves almonds.

Roast Lamb Roast Lamb isn’t just for Easter, but it is the traditional roast for Easter Sunday because it represents Jesus who was the sacrificial lamb of God. It’s also a convenient option for your Easter Sunday roast as there are lots of lambs being born at this time of year making it fresh and seasonal.

Hot Cross Buns Hot Cross Buns have existed for centuries, the tradition states that any hot cross buns cooked on Good Friday will last the whole year without going mouldy and that if you split one with a friend, your friendship will get stronger throughout the year. They’re supposed to be cooked and eaten on Good Friday, but we’re happy to eat them all year around!

Easter Biscuits Though you might not think these tasty treats are any different than other fruit biscuits, traditional Easter biscuits contain Cassia Oil, which is believed to have been used to clean Jesus’ body after the crucifixion. It is also believed that they originated in the West Country, which means we can eat as many of them as we like.

Interested in making your own Easter biscuits?

Flick through to our recipes on page 20.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Spring Quiz 1. The typical implementation of DST is to set clocks forward by an hour in springtime - what does DST stand for?

6. The word for which period of six weeks is a shortened form of an Old English word meaning "spring season"?

2. What is the common name of the spring flowering plant narcissus?

7. In 1830, Englishman Edwin Bear Budding was granted the first patent for what device?

3. Which Frances Hodgson Burnett novel features the following?

“Is the spring coming?" he said.

"What is it like?"... "It is the sun shining on the rain and the rain falling on the sunshine..."

4. "Younger Than Springtime" is a show tune from which Rodgers and Hammerstein musical?

5. "Spring is the time of plans and projects" is a line from which epic Leo Tolstoy novel?

8. The March equinox or spring equinox is better known by what name in the Northern Hemisphere?

9. Demonstrating support for environmental protection, which annual event is held on April 22?

10. The tulip is a member of what flower family?

11. "May brings flocks of pretty lambs, skipping by their fleecy dams" is a verse from "The Garden Year" by Sara Coleridge. What is a 'dam'?

12. Appalachian Spring is a 1944 musical composition by which American composer?

13. Is it frog spawn or toad spawn which floats in stringy lengths?

14. Which Hebrew female name meaning springlike or fresh, is also the name of a British insurance company?

15. Another feminine name, what is the French word for April?

Answers on page 27.

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NOW OPEN

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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Latest from SOmersetshire Coal Canal Society

D

espite not being able to do much building work over the winter months because lime mortar does not set in cold weather, there has been plenty going on with the Somersetshire Coal Canal Society’s projects.

Our stonemasons have been preparing and sorting the good stone for Terminus Bridge abutment walls ready for when the weather improves and there has been a focus on clearing the edges of the Paulton Basin. This is thanks to the Paulton Work Parities, who now meet weekly, every Sunday from 10 am onwards. Recently, we have been clearing some of the old reeds that are blocking the water flow and stopping wildlife from moving freely, we’re leaving plenty of reeds in the water for spring, but it is looking much tidier now.

Visitors to the site might have noticed that we’ve removed a tree next to the Dry Dock Bridge, the tree was rotten and had an increased risk of falling and damaging the bridge.

Why don’t you come down and volunteer with us?

Work Parties are a great way to meet new people, get out in our beautiful countryside, and they act like a free green gym too! Get in touch if you'd like to know more - workparty_paulton@coalcanal. org.uk or call Stu on 07759 336864.

For more information about our progress, you can find us on Facebook (@CoalCanal) and Instagram (@Coal.Canal). You can also find details on our website, www.coalcanal.com

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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Hedge Laying in Riverside Staddlestones Park

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omer Valley Rediscovered has been working with CPRE Bristol & Avon to train their Habitat Management Volunteers in Hedge Laying.

Hedge laying is an ancient craft, yet essential to modernday hedgerow maintenance.

We have lost half of all our hedgerows in the last 70 years, over 500,000km of hedgerow (enough to go beyond the moon). Now, of the half we do have left, half are in unfavourable condition due to lack of or poor management.

With 72% of the UK as farmland, hedgerows are the lifeline to so much of our native wildlife. Hedgerows are also incredibly important for people, farmers, climate change, and the environment.

We had 9 volunteers trained in Hedge Laying, including two of Bath & North East Somerset Council's Parks Team who are based in Radstock and will maintain the hedgerows in this park.

If you are interested in volunteering with Somer Valley Rediscovered and learning more about our project, please email us at somervalleyrediscovered@bathnes.gov.uk or call 01225 477 731.

This training was funded by and part of the Somer Valley Rediscovered project, a strategic green infrastructure project led by Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) Council, Wessex Water, B&NES Public Health and Natural England, funded from the West of England Combined Authority Green Recovery Fund.

I P NG R S Spring & Easter time

Anagrams

Together,

1. TNRUSIERCRNE 2. NEOBNT 3. RPINGSNALCEIGN 4. AMBL 5. BUSHCONSORTS 6. SEGREGATE 7. DIARYOFGOD 8. AKTEBS 9. FADSILFOD 10. MSOSBOL 11. PILTU Answers p.30

let's support local businesses

2024 – Celebrating

42 YEARS

of Dance in Radstock www.suehilldance.co.uk

Locally sourced beef, pork, lamb, chicken, cheeses, butter, milk and eggs.

Made here by us, sausages, burgers, meatballs, faggots, pies, pork pies, pasties, sausage rolls, scotch eggs, quiches.

We also cure our own bacon.

Tel: 01761 418506 Email: phil@phildaybutchers.co.uk 112 High Street, Midsomer Norton BA3 2DA Phil Day Traditional Family Butchers LTD

Over 50 classes a week in all styles of dance from 18 months to adult From £18.50 per month

01761 438885

r e m o s Mid music

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Live at RIVERSIDE BAR

Live at MARDONS CLUB

MARCH

MARCH

2nd: The Mon0s Band 9th: Max Output 16th: Last Broadcast 23rd: Western Rock 30th: Band X Easter Sunday: The Stocks Band, 7.30pm

APRIL

6th: Rectrochic 13th: Rough Justice 20th: Molly Chambers 27th: Saucy Jacks

MAY

4th: Marty’s Fake Family May Day bank holiday Sunday 5th: Trash Casino 7.30pm May 11th: Rock Solid 18th: Band of Others 25th: Syndicate Sunday bank holiday 26th: The Blue Moon Band

JUNE

1st: Brigadier Purple 8th June: Flick Switch 15th: High Impact 22nd: 41 Fords 29th: Foo List

Love live music?

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2nd: Funky Monkey Bubble Klub 9th: Super:D 16h: Freeze 23rd: Haytown75 29th: Open Mic Night 30th: Chasing The Beat

APRIL

6th: Bombshell 13th: Fantastique 80s/90s night 20th: The Other Band 27th: TBA

MAY

4th: The Coyote Kings 11th: Call The Shots 18th: The Skinny Dippers (80s sets) 25th: The Walker Close Band 31st: Dr Fraggle Band

JUNE

8th: TBA 15th: Tundra 22nd: O utatime 80s Fancy Dress Party Night

Then make sure you get these dates in the diary.

#lovelocallive

16 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NEWS FROM Midsomer Norton Methodist Church

T

he season of Lent will commence early this year on Wednesday 14th February.

Details are available from Midsomer Norton Methodist Centre of special events and groups which will be happening.

Looking back, Christmas services and events were well attended and the regular services, meetings and activities continue. We have welcomed back Revd Christine Coram after knee surgery.

We are concerned at the destruction of human lives and livelihoods taking place in Europe and the Middle East, together with the persecution

We’re the Which? Insurance Brand of the Year for the second year running

Whether it’s for your car, home, farm or business, for quality insurance you can rely on, join us today.

Contact NFU Mutual Bath on 01761 239382

The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982).

of Christians worldwide. These situations require our continued prayers and support of the various agencies and the Open Doors charity.

Nearer home, we also to continue to pray to God for those who are ill, especially those with long term problems and for their family carers.

Pray without ceasing, pray!

Midsomer Norton Methodist Church 01761 410450

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

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Bath and Wells Funeral Directors Bath and Wells Funeral Directors is truly independent and locally owned. As long-established residents in the local community we recognise the importance of the reputation we have built, and our service to our clients is our greatest asset.

Our business is managed by a small hands-on team who are on call 24 hours a day. We take time to get to know the families we work with, providing them with all the help and support they need.

We appreciate that people like to know a little about who they will be dealing with, so let us introduce you to the whole team.

Rod Major Business Owner and Funeral Director After spending some time working in the funeral industry, Rod recognised a need for more local independent Funeral Directors and in September 2016, he set up Wells Funeral Services and more recently, incorporated Bath and Wells Funeral Directors.

Rod is very forward thinking and customer focused, he offers a flexible approach and understanding the needs of his clients is very important to him. He is very aware that clients appreciate being treated as individuals while delivering a professional and respectful funeral service.

He believes everybody is entitled to a meaningful but affordable funeral, this is where his speciality lies, offering a first-class service while ensuring his clients' budget is respected.

Rod has a first-class record in delivering funerals in a way that ensures his client is happy and with no stress, just a safe professional approach. His aim is to ensure the clients get good value for money, affordable funerals for all.

Nicky Sutton Funeral Director and Funeral Celebrant Nicky is a funeral director, and also a qualified and experienced funeral celebrant and celebrant trainer. She has led hundreds of funeral ceremonies in crematoriums, natural burial grounds, graveyards, village halls, pub function rooms, clients’ homes and gardens and even in a stretch tent in a rain-soaked field.

She feels it is important for people to be made aware that funerals are not restricted to crematoriums or churches.

Nicky has been working alongside Rod since 2016 and between them, they make sure clients receive exactly what they wish to achieve from the funeral they are planning. A good funeral ceremony should be as unique as the person who has died and paint a picture of their lives, it should appeal to the heart, the head and the senses.

Nicky is professional, focused, yet empathetic and patient.

She feels very privileged to work with families to create a fitting tribute and goodbye ceremony for their family member or friend.

Blake Major Blake is the son of Rod Major and is relatively new to the business. He moved down to Somerset from Scotland where he had been living with family and working in farming.

At 22, Blake is the youngest member of the team. He works with his father on a part time basis and is learning all aspects of the business from the collection of the deceased and bringing them into our care, pall bearing or carrying duties to meeting clients old and new while representing the business at Wells Market each Wednesday.

Tiffany Major Tiffany is the daughter of Rod Major; during the last six years, she has worked for three nursing homes in the area, Torrwood and Fletcher House in Wells and another one in Glastonbury.

She is now a receptionist at a local doctor’s surgery and works with us.

Tiffany always had a great affinity with the residents she helped to care for and she built relationships with so many elderly people and their families over the years she was in the care industry.

Having a very caring nature, Tiffany looks after those who are brought into our care, she dresses and takes care of their hair and make-up if required.

She is dedicated to what she does and carries out this important role with care, respect, and dignity.

Ready to take on myopia MiSight ® 1 day

The first daily contact lens proven to slow the progression of myopia in children.

Slowing myopia progression can reduce the risk of myopia-related complications and vision loss in later life.

The lens is specially designed for myopic children between -0.25 and -6.00DS. MiSight ® 1 day daily disposable contact lens with ActivControl ® myopia management technology is easy to wear and offers a simple convenient myopia management therapy.

MiSight ® 1 day contact lenses control both axial length increase and myopia progression while fully correcting refractive error.

Three-year clinical study findings indicated that the use of MiSight ® 1 day was effective in slowing myopia progression by:

52%

as measured by mean axial elongation of the eye when compared to the children in the control group wearing a standard singlevision, one-day lens contact lens.

Established in 1939, we have provided eye care for nearly 80 years 2 Mansbrook House, 15 High Street Midsomer Norton 01761 413212 www.edwardsmidsomer.co.uk

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

SWALLOW CHARITY thanks the community

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WALLOW Charity, supporting local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities, would like to send a big thank you to the people of Midsomer Norton and beyond.

The charity has been touched by the kindness and generosity of the local community during the last year in which SWALLOW has celebrated its 30th Anniversary.

Most recently, Gordon Mackay, the Mayor of Midsomer Norton, held a Burns Night in aid of SWALLOW, which raised over £550. It was a fantastic event, some SWALLOW members went along and had a lovely time trying out the haggis. The Midsomer Norton Methodist Church continues to be a generous supporter of the charity, through their various fundraising activities over Christmas.

Back before Christmas, the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Rotary Club organised a carol concert in St John’s Church where the SWALLOW choir sang, and this is just one way that the Rotary Club has supported the charity through the year. And it’s not just fundraising activities that benefit the charity – SWALLOW members were absolutely delighted to play a cricket match at the Midsomer Norton Cricket Club last autumn.

SWALLOW relies on the support of the local community, to continue enabling over 170 local people with learning disabilities to live their lives to the full. Everyone at SWALLOW would like to say a very big ‘thank you!’ to all the people who have supported the charity locally.

WEST COUNTRY RECIPES Somerset Easter Biscuits As Easter approaches, I thought I’d submit a proper West Country favourite. It would seem that they really are only found around the Somerset area, and we especially love to add Cassia oil. This spicy oil is incorporated, as it was believed to have been used in the embalming process to clean Jesus's body after his crucifixion.

This recipe is really simple to pull together. Food grade Cassia oil can be purchased online or at most chemists.

• 100g softened butter • 100g caster sugar • 1 medium egg • ½ tsp baking powder • 80g currants • 250g plain flour • 2 tbsp milk • tiny drop of oil of cassia or 1 tsp mixed spice Preheat your oven to 200⁰C/180 fan/Gas Mark 6.

Beat the sugar and butter together until incorporated, then add in the egg and whip until its light and fluffy. It's best to use an electric whisk or stand mixer for this - or your arms will ache!

Really gently fold in the flour, baking powder, currants and Cassia/mixed spice. Add sploshes of milk to bring it all together to a nice soft (not wet) dough. Use your hand for the last bit, so you can get a feel for the correct consistency.

On a floured table, roll your dough to about 5mm thick and cut into circles using a cutter or anything round (clean small plant pot, jam jar, etc).

Place the biscuits on to a well floured/parchment paper covered tray. Leave a bit of space between each one.

Bake until the edges just start to turn golden and they have the tiniest bit of colour (about 12 - 15 minutes) and remove immediately. Sprinkle with caster sugar while still hot, then allow to cool (or scoff whilst warm!)

Happy Baking!

Mandy at Huggenkiss Bakery @huggenkissbakery

Cornish Red Mullet & Scallops

with New Potatoes, Samphire, Rainbow Carrots & Parsley Veloute Serves 2 Ingredients • 8 x 100-120g Red Mullet Fillets • 8 x Large or King Scallops • 800g New Potatoes • 250g Samphire - washed • 12 x Rainbow Carrots - mix of colours • 50-100ml Vegetable Oil • Pea Shoots to garnish • Salt and Pepper to season For the Veloute • 200ml Pouring Cream • 200g Flat Leaf Parsley • 1 x good quality veg stock cube - diluted as instructed • 2 x tblsp Plain Flour • 50g Butter Method Veloute Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the flour and stir. Keep on a medium heat and keep stirring to cook out the flour. Add the stock gradually and stir until combined. Slowly pour in the cream and let simmer for a few minutes. Blanch the parsley in boiling water before chilling in ice water, draining and chopping. Add parsley to veloute and remove from heat.

Veg Boil, or steam the carrots and new potatoes until cooked - but not soft! Boil, or steam the Samphire for 30 seconds.

Fish Lightly season the red mullet fillets and scallops. Preheat a pan, and lay the scallops in. Oil the skin side of the red mullet fillets and put them in the pan skin-side down.

The scallops and red mullet fillets need no more than two minutes max on each side, once cooked, remove and place aside to rest.

To Plate Start with the veloute, then place the potatoes on top. Place the samphire and scallops either side of the potatoes. Then the carrots on top of the potatoes, followed by the red mullet fillets on top.

Garnish with pea shoots.

Recipe kindly supplied by The Redan Inn - Chilcompton

01761 568189

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 23

Put your hands together for the RUH’s surgical team

M

ore than 200 patients at the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust have now had hand surgery in the hospital’s Trauma Assessment Unit (TAU) under local anaesthetic – cutting waiting times and helping patients to get back home more quickly.

In January 2023, the TAU team launched same-day hand surgery for patients, operations that would otherwise need to be carried out in main day surgery.

Operations take place under a local anaesthetic and can be used to treat conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and skin lesions.

Last week, the surgery team celebrated treating it’s 200th patient – exactly a year to the day that hand operations were launched in TAU. Gemma Chambers, 29, a cleaner from Bath, was the surgery team’s 200th patient, having surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome on her right hand.

Gemma said: “Having carpal tunnel syndrome feels like having pins and needles all the time, with tingling shooting pains. At times it’s so painful, I go to bed crying. It affects your everyday life, even gripping a hot drink is dangerous when it’s really flared up.

“To be offered such quick, efficient and caring treatment is amazing. The whole team here is fantastic too.

“It was really quick and easy. I came in, got ready, and then the procedure took just a matter of minutes. In a bit, I’ll be on my way home.

“This should make a real difference for me.

Eventually I want to set up my own cleaning company to work for myself, and now I can focus on the future. Thank you to everyone in the department.”

Karen Driscoll, Deputy Divisional Director of Operations for Surgery, said: “We are delighted that in just one year we have been able to successfully carry out hand surgery on more than 200 people in TAU. “This new way of working has reduced waiting times for patients and freed up space in our day surgery theatres for more complex cases.

“The feedback we have had from the people we care for has been so positive, which is fantastic.

“I’d like to thank colleagues from across the RUH who have worked to so hard to make this happen.”

24 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

Attention dog owners!

W

e all know how important our dogs are to us, they provide endless comfort and companionship, especially in our later years.

Our older readers, in particular, will know how much joy our dogs bring to our lives, but they will also know that getting out of the house so their furry friends can enjoy walks can be a struggle.

One elderly resident found this out all too well after breaking her leg and being unable to walk her excitable young dog, Betty. When she was unable to get help from other local organisations, she turned to Midsomer Mutts, a Midsomer Nortonbased dog walking, boarding and training service.

Sarah, from Midsomer Mutts, explained: “We’ve recently been providing free of charge dog walks to a local elderly resident who lives alone and broke her leg, which meant she wasn’t able to get out and about. She has a very energetic and gorgeous young Lab called Betty who needs at least an hour’s exercise every day, she was really stranded, so we stepped in to help!”

After spending time walking Betty and seeing how much of a help it was to her owner, the team at Midsomer Mutts are now looking to extend their dog walking service free of charge to elderly residents in need. If you feel like you, or someone you know, is struggling to keep up with the amount of exercise your beloved dog needs, get in touch with Midsomer Mutts via their website to see how they can help you.

Follow us

If you’re new to the area or are looking for inspiration for more places to explore with your dog, keep your eyes peeled – after their successful Guided Dog Walk in December, Midsomer Mutts is looking to host more free walks around the area in the coming months. Details will be available on their website shortly.

Find out more about Midsomer Mutts and their free dog walking services for the elderly online at midsomermutts.com

@MSNLife @midsomernortonlife @MidsomerLife

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 25

Award winning service helps patients with late effects from radiotherapy

P

atients treated for cancer in Somerset are benefitting from an award-winning clinical service that provides continued support in the months and years after radiotherapy treatment.

The Macmillan Radiotherapy Late Effects service provides specialist advice, support and management for people who are experiencing ongoing effects from radiotherapy.

The service was initially pioneered at Musgrove Park Hospital in 2014 but has since grown to offer clinics at Yeovil District Hospital and Bridgwater Community Hospital.

Radiotherapy is a highly effective treatment for many types of cancer, but it can cause physical or psychological late effects for people, sometimes months or years after their treatment has been completed.

The support provided by the service ranges from lifestyle changes and self-management, through to prescribing medications, and referrals to specialist regional and national services.

Patients may be referred to counselling or programmes of exercise, including swimming and other activities to improve function and sleep.

The late effects team has grown and now leads a new regional service in a partnership between Macmillan Cancer Support, the Somerset, Wiltshire, Avon and Gloucestershire Cancer Alliance – also known as ‘SWAG’, and radiotherapy services across the South West region.

This work was recognised with a prestigious Macmillan Professionals Award for Innovation Excellence in November 2023.

The partnership is initially a two year project

that will see radiotherapy late effects services develop a network of support at four radiotherapy centres in the areas that made up the SWAG Cancer Alliance – the Beacon Centre at Musgrove Park Hospital, Royal United Hospital in Bath, Cheltenham General Hospital, and Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre. The team also provides mentorship, developing further services at hospitals in Exeter, Torbay and Truro.

It’s the first project of this kind in the UK, where all the NHS trusts in a cancer alliance have worked with Macmillan to give patients across a region the same level of support.

It will provide equity of care across the south west and help to inform the long-term future of a radiotherapy late effects services.

Lisa Durrant, the Macmillan consultant therapeutic radiographer for late effects, said: “While radiotherapy is a life-saving cancer treatment, the patients who receive it can develop late side effects that can be life-long and life-changing.

“This award recognises the work done by all members of the regional team, but most importantly it raises awareness about late effects and ensures our patients continue to be supported to thrive even decades after their treatment is completed.”

26 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE Christine Pike is one of the patients from Somerset who’s benefited from our radiotherapy late effects service. “Following my cervical cancer surgery and intensive radiotherapy treatment, I worked hard to return to normal fitness, but after the first three months of recovery, late effects of the treatment began to take hold,” she says.

"Whilst I was delighted that the cancer was in remission, I was struggling with a fragile pelvis as well as abdominal muscle and nerve damage ... the symptoms were life changing.

“The referral made to the late effects team at the Beacon Centre at Musgrove Park Hospital by my oncology surgeon was a salvation.

“From that moment, the late effects radiographer Lisa Durrant has guided me towards achieving goals of independence and a fulfilling lifestyle.

those for bowel, bladder, and bone strengthening, as well as continuing lymphedema and physiotherapy), but her emotional support is hard to quantify.

“At one point I discovered a new lump, and after a lapse of nearly a week when I failed to share my concerns with anyone, I contacted Lisa. Her guidance via email broke the ice enough for me to visit my GP and a quick diagnosis of a false alarm followed. It feels as though my late effects team has simply kept me going.”

Shelley Orton, Macmillan’s strategic partnership manager, said: “This is a real step forward in personalised cancer care. We’re so pleased to have worked with the cancer alliance to fill this gap in support for people who are often struggling from life-changing effects caused by cancer treatment.”

“Not only has she arranged numerous appointments for me over three years (including

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 27

It’s time for a spring clean!

A

s we move into spring, it’s the perfect time to revitalise your space and welcome a new season with a good clean – here are some top tips for a satisfying spring clean.

Decluttering We all know that a tidy living space helps relieve stress and anxiety, but attempting a big clean can also be stressful. We suggest doing a room at a time, doing a little tidy as you go. That way you can get rid of any forgotten items that are cluttering up your space.

Work from top to bottom There is no point hoovering the floor and then brushing the cobwebs from the ceiling – start at the top and work your way down – no one wants to do the same room twice!

Clear out those cupboards Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying your house, it’s a great time to refresh your wardrobe by

donating any unwanted clothes, shoes or toys to charity. Make a point to go through your kitchen and bathroom cupboards too, getting rid of anything that is out of date and donating anything you aren’t going to use to a local food bank.

Don’t forget the walls!

Dust settles on walls as much as it does the floor, so use a damp towel to wipe down the walls, paying attention to the tops of any photo frames or wall art.

Be green Having a spring clean isn’t just good for you – it can be good for the environment too, just be aware of what products you’re using. Look out for anything in recyclable or reusable packaging or use more traditional methods, like vinegar and baking powder – they’re more cost effective and less damaging to the environment too.

Spring Quiz - Answers 1. Daylight saving time

8. Vernal equinox

2. Daffodil

9. Earth Day

3. The Secret Garden

10. Lily

4. South Pacific

11. Female Mother Sheep

5. Anna Karenina

12. Aaron Copland

6. Lent (short version of the Old English word lencten, which means spring season.)

13. Toad spawn

7. Mechanical lawn mower (we associate getting out our lawn mowers with Spring!)

14. Aviva 15. Avril

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 29

Kickstart your garden

S

pring is a great time to start planting pots and flower beds. Whether you have a garden or a few pots on your window sill, plants are a great way to spruce up your space and you can even grow your own food!

Here are some suggestions of plants you can include in your garden or on your window sill that are easy to maintain, look colourful and are fun to grow.

Intermediate Periwinkle Little white flowers with a hint of blue, good to cover awkward spots in your garden.

Tufted pansy They look a little like watercress but with white blossoms.

Grape hyacinths These blue flowers are pretty and are easy to grow and maintain.

Ferns They love shade, so are a good option for anyone without much natural light. They are easy to look after and are a good way to break up flower beds.

Tulips You will need to plant them in the autumn if you want to grow them from bulbs or buy them ready and plant them.

Clematis These are a good climbing plant and are a great way to offer drainage for the rest of your plants.

Cyclamen Another one that doesn’t need much sunshine, they’re a good choice for anyone who isn’t confident in the garden.

Lettuce Lettuce can be planted in the spring and only takes a few weeks before its ready to be eaten.

Herbs Herbs like parsley are good for planting at this time of year and can be grown indoors or out.

Herbs can be found at supermarkets and are easy to propagate.

I P NG R S Spring & Easter time Anagrams - Answers

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

31

Keep your kids protected online

I

t seems that no one is safe from the everexpanding world of social media. New apps and trends seem to pop up every day and with the continuing discussion around online safety, here are some tips for you to help keep your kids safe.

• Be aware of in app purchases, many apps appear to be free at first glance but offer the chance to buy additional services once you’ve downloaded them. To avoid accidentally running up charges, make sure that any purchases have to go through you rather than giving the kids your details.

Whether they’re using TikTok or Twitter, there are some very important things to talk to your child about regarding their social media use. Though they might think you’re being overprotective and that they know what they’re doing, do have regular conversations with them and where possible, monitor their social media use, either through apps of your own or by manually checking.

• There are a variety of apps and services you can use to give you peace of mind and keep an eye on your children’s online activity. You can find out more about these by searching the app store or by heading to internetmatters.org where there are a host of resources to help you keep your kids safe online.

Here are some tips: • Make sure your children have their accounts set to private, this will mean that only people they (or you) have approved will be able to interact with them and view their online activity.

• Make sure they are aware of how to keep themselves safe, speak to them about uploading photos or videos that can identify them, like having photos with your street name or their school uniform in.

• Let them know where the block buttons are, cyber bullying and inappropriate content are rife on social media, so make sure they know how to use the block and report buttons.

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Autumn 2020 Issue 36

Summer 2020 Issue 35 Winter 2019 Issue 33

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 33

Allergy Awareness Week 2024

A

llergy Awareness Week takes place every year (this year it is between 22nd and 28th April) and is a way of gaining more understanding of some of the most common allergies and how to help those that suffer from them day to day.

Fast facts:

Insect bites Wasps and bees in particular cause reactions, but horse flies, mosquitos and other insects can also cause a reaction.

The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• Allergies are thought to affect more than 1 in every 4 people

• Sneezing

• Allergies are more common in children

• Runny or blocked nose

• Allergies can be developed at any age, even in adulthood.

• Red, itchy rash

• Allergies range from food, pollen and medication The most common allergens are: Food Nuts, milk, fish, shellfish and acidic fruits are some of the most common foods that can cause reactions. You can combat this by making sure to correctly label any cakes or treats you make and by being aware of what ingredients you use.

Lactose and gluten can also cause reactions, you can find plenty of free from options at supermarkets.

Medication Aspirin and antibiotics are two of the most common allergens when it comes to medication.

Make sure not to administer any medication to anyone without checking first.

• Coughing

• Worsening of eczema or asthma • Itchy, watery eyes More serious allergies can cause anaphylaxis which is severe and potentially life threatening.

If you have an allergy and you start to feel lightheaded, have difficulty breathing, change in your heart rate, clammy skin, losing consciousness, swelling or sickness, make sure to get medical attention urgently.

Many mild symptoms can be eased by taking over the counter antihistamines. You can also look at reducing the number of triggers by not having flowers in the house or keeping a nut free kitchen or office. You can also keep windows open to stop allergens from settling. Those with severe allergies will carry an epi-pen around with them in case of emergencies. Make sure you know where they keep it just in case and don’t administer their pen unless you know how to do so correctly, always seek advice from 999 if you are unsure.

To advertise your business in the next issue of Misomer Norton Life Contact Carmen on 01761 458192

34 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

ENJOY NIGHTs OUT AT MARDONS

M

ardons have recently undergone a slight name change, now 'Mardons Community Club', the move reflects their new status as a Community Interest Company.

Visitors will also notice that the club has undergone a refurb, with new furniture last year, it's now been re-carpetted throughout.

Mardons club remains open to all, you dont need to be a member, anyone can visit and there's plenty going on - it's also available for Friday night party bookings (no 18th 21st or kids' parties) Boasting two of the best hi-definition big scrreens locally and subscibing to all the major channels, multiple matches can be shown simultaniously.

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The Other Band : 20th Ap

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Of course the great musical entertainment continues on Saturday nights, with some of the areas leading bands performing, see page 15, or follow them at facebook.com/mardonsclub

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MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 35

Information for all!

FROM LIVEWELL B&NES

D

o you, or a family member, need care, health or well-being information? Are you looking for local Ofsted registered childcare, or an activity for your child with additional needs?

Live Well B&NES provides signposting to information, resources, services and groups.

The site supports people in Bath & North East Somerset: • Children and families • Adults with care or support needs • Parent carers of children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and young people with additional needs There is a Cost-of-Living section providing information to support anyone experiencing financial challenges, including advice around benefits, energy,

Find out more: https://livewell.bathnes.gov.uk www.facebook.com/livewellbathnes www.instagram.com/Youth_Info_Bathnes or scan the QRcode

More than thirty Warm Spaces across the area are open and offering a warm welcome to all.

Exciting TIMES at Magpie!

A

s of 1st March 2024, Magpie will have a new home on Midsomer Norton High Street. You will be able to find us just up the road at the front of Holly Court next to Country Kids Clothing.

This move will enable us to rebrand and offer more to our customers. We will still be offering preloved vintage and retro clothing alongside our popular alternative gifts and homeware. There will also be an area stocking D&D merchandise.

The biggest change is that we will have a small multipurpose space for hire called ‘The Nest’. It will be a space for small groups up to a maximum of 8. Holistic practitioners, small clubs, workshops etc will be able to hire the space. We have already had interest from a D&D club and a reiki practitioner. When not being let out we will use it for our product making.

We cannot wait to add new friends and customers to our 'Mischief' of Magpies!

36 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

GET OUTSIDE WITH THE ACTIVE WAY

G

et ready for a dose of outdoor fun! If you're looking for ways to get more active outdoors, look no further than The Active Way – we are offering FREE cycling, wheeling and walking activities across the Somer Valley.

We are based at Hope House Surgery every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and we offer pop-up activities in Unit 14, Midsomer Norton, on Tuesdays. We are here to help you boost your health and well-being through active travel.

Whether you're looking to try something new, want support to get more physically active, need access to bikes and local walking trails, or just fancy meeting new people while enjoying the great outdoors – we've got something for you!

You can pop into Hope House any week, come along to a pop-up in Unit 14 or visit our website to join in at www.theactivewaybathnes.co.uk The Active Way has teamed up with several well-established providers to bring you free personalised 1-2-1 and group cycling and walking activities: Snap & Stroll is a creative well-being group that strolls around the Somer Valley, snapping photos along the way. Each week, the group sets off from different locations and supports each other whilst enjoying the creativity that photographing our amazing local wildlife, heritage spots, and countryside brings. You can be creative or a complete beginner, come along and join us.

We also hope to create new Snap and Stroll groups; if you are creative and want to learn more about what it takes to lead a creative walking group, please get in touch.

Sustrans runs a friendly 10-week walking and cycling programme, Active Steps, to boost your confidence and activity levels. They set off from Tom Huyton Park and can provide you with a bike or E-bike. They explore different routes and spots

each week and aim to give you the confidence to travel actively beyond the programme.

All Cycles Bath & West offer inclusive and accessible cycling for adults and young people of all ages with health, learning, physical and social needs - their accessible equipment and expertise enable wheelchair users to access cycling, ensuring everyone can discover the fun of cycling. Sessions run from Tom Huyton Park, and they welcome carers, family, or friends to attend and join in, too.

The Council’s Bikeability team supports you in increasing your cycling ability and confidence through 1-2-1 adult or family cycle training.

Whether you're new to cycling or are returning after a long period, the team will tailor the training to your needs, giving you the choice to cycle off-road or on our cycling network.

Supporting Family Change provide personal 1-2-1 or small group Walk and Talk sessions. These supportive sessions are centred around your needs and physical abilities. Whether you can walk unsupported or use a wheelchair or a stick or frame, these walks are an opportunity for everyone. Walk and Talk sessions allow you to chat with a member of the Supporting Family Change team or fellow walkers and are great for anyone experiencing low confidence or struggling with daily life and feelings of isolation.

MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE 37

KiActiv is a digital physical activity behaviour change intervention offering you a 12-week programme that empowers you to track and visualise your daily movements with the support of a health coach and nifty wearable device.

KiActiv is open to all adults regardless of age and physical abilities. Once you’ve got set up with KiActiv, why not sign up for other Active Way activities to see how much more activity you can record?

And there's more!

We have asked GoJauntly to create and map 30 miles of walking trails in the Somer Valley.

These walks are step-free and easy to navigate, which allows you to discover more of your local community. Many will be around your local GP practice or street; you just need to download their free app to learn more.

We’re very excited as we’ve just received a fleet of bikes and e-bikes for people participating in our activities to loan for a month. Ensuring that nothing stops anyone from enjoying a ride or trying out an E-Bike.

Our Bikeability team also hosts pop-up Dr Bike sessions, ensuring your bikes are in good order by giving them a bit of TLC for free. We are also working with Sustrans to offer DIY Bike Maintenance workshops to teach you the ABCs of bike fixing, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge to care for your bike in the future.

The Active Way is Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Active Travel Social Prescribing project.

We are one of eleven local authorities awarded funding to see how we can support residents to increase physical activity levels and their health and well-being by offering active travel activities.

It is well known that getting outdoors and being more active helps to improve physical and mental health and overall well-being, and connecting with our local landscapes through walking and cycling is a great way to achieve this. We are working with GP practices, Social Prescribers, and a range of other local organisations to allow everyone the opportunity to see if being more physically active can support better health and well-being.

To find out more about what’s on offer and to sign up for one of our activities, please visit us at Hope House (any Monday, Wednesday or Friday) or our website, where we have a simple self-referral form, which you can fill out. Once you’ve filled out the form, a member of our team or one of our providers will be in touch to confirm your activity and discuss what support you might need, which group is most suitable for you and get you booked for your first session. We can’t wait for you to join us to start your journey The Active Way! Website: theactivewaybathnes.co.uk Email: info@theactivewaybathnes.co.uk Phone: 01225 477590

38 MIDSOMER NORTON LIFE

NEWS FROM the STATION

H

aving let our volunteers have a well-earned rest following the wonderful Santa events during December and our Mince Pie Special on New Year’s Day, we are getting ready for the start of the new season.

The DMU (the green one) and our diesel shunters – hauling our heritage red coaches – will share the duties of locomotion over the early part of the season.

Our Wickham trolley will operate every Wednesday during all school holidays from Easter across the season. Come for a ride and see the railway from a different perspective.

Our buffet car will be open for light refreshments (hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, pasties, cake, ice cream) every Sunday all through the season from 24th March, on Wickham Wednesdays and for any special events. Our friendly catering team will be delighted to welcome you.

Last but not least have a look in our shop and second hand emporium for book and gift ideas.

Highlights from the early part of the season include: Saturday 24th March First running day of the season.

Sunday 31st March Easter Sunday running day with Easter egg hunt.

Monday 1st April Easter Monday running day.

Sunday 5th May Brake van rides behind our diesel shunter.

Saturday 11th May SPECIAL EVENT – Olde time musical evening put on by Bath Gilbert & Sullivan Society.

Saturday 1st June SPECIAL EVENT – Steam Punk event – keep an eye out for more details.

Sunday 16th June Fathers’ Day. Why not treat your dad – or yourself - and try driving one of our diesel shunters along the line during our 30-minute driver experience sessions – all bookable online.

Guests can travel in the brake van behind if they wish (a small charge will apply).

Wickham Trolley Wickham trolley rides every Wednesday during school holidays.

Our full operating programme, tickets and more information can be viewed and booked online through our website: www.sdjr.co.uk

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We aim to achieve a healthier mouth for all our patients. Get in touch to see how our dental hygiene services can help you with dental hygiene.