LocalReach Clevedon December 2024

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“Fantastic responsive service. It’s the 2nd time I have used central roofing and on both occasions they turned up on time got on with the job and kept us informed on what was being carried out. Went above and beyond and assisted me in issues around insurance. I would recommend this company to anyone with roofing issues.”

GRP • FIBRE GLASS • FLAT

We used Central Roofing to take down an old flat roof and install another on our business premises at Knight Brothers Garage. The company was very reliable, they turned up when they said they would, the guys that did the work were very tidy and efficient. The work was completed in the time frame they set…we are more than pleased with the

job. Karen

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Please visit www.localreach.co.uk and click on Community Notices page Deadline is 25th Nov for the Jan issues

For Business Advertising call 01275 400160 or visit our website www.localreach.co.uk Deadline is 25th Nov for the Jan issues

Disclaimer. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this magazine, we make no guarantee that the content will always be current, accurate or complete. We do not approve any of the services or products provided by advertisers in this magazine. Anyone using the products, services or advice from advertisers will need to carry out normal checks to make sure businesses are trustworthy and reliable. LocalReach Ltd 2024.

A busy December in your garden

Fine days might be few and far between in December but when they do arrive head out into the garden because there is lots to do.

New projects

December is a busy month in the garden. The cooler weather offers the opportunity to undertake some serious projects, there is tidying up, jobs in the greenhouse, and preparation for spring.

The days might be short and the weather cold, but if you want to undertake a garden landscaping project, December could be the perfect month to get it done.

Build raised beds – they can be built using kits of wood, metal or other materials, using specially sourced timber, using offcuts of wood that you might already have, or you could utilise the services of a gardening professional who will design, source and construct them for you.

Raised beds do not have to be lined but this will reduce the emergence of weeds. Liners can be

designed specially for raised beds, or you could perhaps use cardboard. But sourcing good quality topsoil is a must.

Construct a new greenhouse or cold frame – again you could do this yourself or get a professional to do it for you, and the choices are from home made and reasonably priced to high quality top of the range bespoke models.

Out in the garden

Protect - if the weather is fair get into the garden prioritising protection of pots and plants against potentially severe weather. Terracotta pots should either be wrapped or moved to a frost-free area.

Shield - in the vegetable plot parsnips should be shielded from frost with straw and over in the flower garden pile some more straw around the base of tender shrubs and climbing plants.

Prune - any overgrown shrubs and hedges while they are in their dormant state. Also prune climbing roses.

01275 605038

Tidy up - raspberry and blackberry plants and prune large apple and pear trees as this will increase the amount they will crop next autumn.

In the greenhouse or potting shed

Even if the weather is poor, there is plenty to do in the greenhouse or potting shed beginning with a good spring clean and tidy up. Clean the glass regularly and renew any insulation. On fine days wash the glass outside and ventilate.

Rhubarb – cover your potted rhubarb plants perhaps with a bucket or bin depending on the size of the plant to force your rhubarb so you can enjoy succulent sweet fruit in a month or two.

Hyacinth plants – these should be ready to bring out of your greenhouse and inside your home so that they flower for Christmas and the New Year.

Overwintering plants – check for any pests or problems – water sparingly over winter.

Prune vines – if you are lucky enough to have a greenhouse large enough to grow vines December is the perfect time to give them a good prune because, as with the outside fruit bushes and trees, they are currently in their dormant state.

December is a great time to enjoy your botanical achievements and then plan ahead for the next gardening year.

Fair Trade Christmas Sale Plus

Refreshments

A wide selection of fairly traded gifts & crafts plus Christmas cards & decorations, Advent Calendars (including The Real Advent Calendar), chocolate & coffee will be on sale at Christchurch, Chapel Hill, Clevedon on Saturday 23rd November, 10:00am - 3:00pm. Drinks & homemade cakes available throughout the event. Proceeds to Uganda Concern UK and a variety of fair trade suppliers. Details from Terry 878049 / Gwen 07760 415872

Your favourite fairy tales brought to life

At Christmas time Tickenham Church invites villagers and organisations to display their design talents based on a common theme.

This year the theme will be ‘fairy tales’. So come and see your favourites - Hansel and Gretel, The Princess and the Pear, Goldilocks and The Three

Bears, perhaps - brought to life in the beautiful setting of the village Church. Every Saturday and Sunday in December, 12:00pm - 3:00pm.

There will be a preview evening on 30th November from 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Admission £5 with a free glass of Prosecco. Children free.

Penny Brohn UK - Reindeer Trail 2024

Join Penny Brohn UK for festive family fun with their Reindeer Trail 2024. Sunday 1st December 2024 – 10:00am-1:00pm.

Santa’s mischievous reindeer have escaped from the North Pole and are causing chaos in the Penny Brohn UK garden! With Christmas just around the corner, we need your help to track them down and get them back to Santa so they can pull his sleigh and deliver presents to all the children.

£5 per child, adults go free!

Penny Brohn UK, Chapel Pill Ln, Pill, Bristol BS20 0HH

pennybrohn.org.uk/event/reindeer-trail-2024/

The Sounds of Joy: Why Hearing Care will bring more cheer than ever this Festive Season

During the festive season, we find ourselves gathering with family and friends, reminiscing on old stories and creating new memories. These joyful moments, filled with laughter and love, are what make the holidays so special. At Meadows & Wood Hearing Care, we believe hearing is the key that unlocks the magic of these moments, keeping us close to the people and memories we cherish. We’re here to help you keep those connections strong, so you can celebrate every joyful sound this season.

At Meadows & Wood, we understand that hearing is more than just hearing sounds, it’s about feeling connected. From the infectious giggles of a grandchild, a festive gathering, or a quiet cup of tea with family. But when hearing begins to fade, these precious memories can feel distant. That’s why caring for your hearing is essential to staying connected with the moments and people that matter most. Our state-of-the-art hearing aids and personalised care plans are designed to restore not just your hearing, but the priceless experiences that come with it.

Don’t let another moment pass you by. Our expert audiologists are dedicated to finding solutions that fit your unique needs. At North Somerset’s only full time and fully independent audiology and tinnitus treatment centre, we would be pleased to give you a free check-up and have a chat about your hearing. Visit us at any of our North Somerset clinics or contact us using the details below.

Hard of Hearing Social GroupDecember meeting 2nd December

The North Somerset Hard of Hearing Social Group meets generally on the 1st Monday of each month 2:00pm to 4:00pm at the Conservative Club 24-26 Alexandra Parade Weston super Mare BS23 10X. The meetings are a mixture of speakers, outings, chat and useful information. Cost £4 to include refreshments. Come along. We will be very happy to see you.

Light Up A Life this Christmas with Weston Hospicecare

Light Up A Life returns this December providing an opportunity for people who have experienced the bereavement of family and friends to come together and celebrate their lives in a series of five touching services. Guests are invited to dedicate a colourful lantern or leave a dedication in the book of remembrance. Services take place at the following location/times:

St Pauls Weston-super-Mare - 2nd December 3:30pm & 7:00pm. Burnham-on-Sea Methodist - 4th December 7:00pm.

St Andrews’s Congresbury - 9th December 7:00pm.

St Mary’s Clevedon - 11th December 7:00pm. Find out more at www.westonhospicecare.org.uk

“It’s A Wonderful Life!” A Free

Family Christmas Film!

Friday 6th December at 7:30pm. St Andrew’s Church Centre, Old Church Road, Clevedon BS21 7UE. Free popcorn and ice creams! All are very welcome!

Penny Brohn UK Festive Market 2024

Join us once again at our Festive Market on Saturday 7th December at our National Centre in Pill.

On the day we will have a number of stalls selling their Christmassy crafts, as well as lots of festive activities including; storytelling sessions, Christmas card making, live music and entertainment, festive refreshments – think mince pies and mulled wine, there may even be a visit from a certain man in a red suit…. Join us for a festive afternoon of fun for

all the family, pick up some last minute Christmas gifts and support Penny Brohn UK and those living with cancer along the way. pennybrohn.org.uk/event/penny-brohn-ukfestive-market-2024/

Classical Guitarist at Clevedon Music Club

London-based classical guitarist Cassandra Mathews play VillaLobos, Manuel da Falla, Dowland etc on Tuesday 10th December at 7:30pm in Room 2 (level access) at Clevedon Community Centre, Princes Road, BS21 7SZ. Take a break from Christmas preparations and relax in good company Everyone welcome. Admission £12 by cash, cheque or card at the door. Pre-booking advised, call 01275 875262 or email andrea. argent@hotmail.co.uk

See cassandramathews.com

Better, Bit-By-Bit

Could just a few people, regularly praying together, see a gradual, bit-by-bit, improvement in the atmosphere, at home, at work, and at play, for everyone living and / or works in Clevedon? Christians from a variety of church traditions, will meet to pray for this, on Saturday 14th December, 08.30-10.00 @ 44 Old St, (Town Council Offices). Hot drinks and food @ 08.30. Info, including their weekly Tues and Fri 08.00 - 08.30 Zoom prayer link, contact prayer4clevedon@gmail.com, or phone Tim Simpson, (9:00am – 9:00pm), on 01275 872 618.

Macular Society local group.

December meeting - Wednesday 18th December

The local Weston-super-Mare Macular Society Group covering Weston, Clevedon, Winscombe meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month 10:30am to 12:30pm at St Peter’s Church Hall, Baytree Road, Weston-super-Mare BS22 8HG. The group is for anyone affected by central vision loss AMD wet or dry. We have presentations on a variety of topics such as useful appliances, helpful organisations and local interest. Such as GWR and VisionAid. Cost £3 including refreshments. Friends and carers most welcome. For more information contact Jo on 07947 373 244

Crossword Across

Word Search

1 Contribute, give (6)

4 Demise, end (5)

8 Jeopardy (5)

9 Sank the Titanic (7)

10 Distinctly (7)

11 Indian dress (4)

12 Deceive (3)

14 Sung in church (4)

15 Reveal, display (4)

18 Fasten, attach (3)

21 Idol, venerated image (4)

23 Wander aimlessly (7)

25 Gift (7)

26 Modify (5)

27 Appoint, nominate (5)

28 Affluence, riches (6)

Down

1 Portray, illustrate (6)

2 Baby’s room (7)

3 Forgiving, lenient (8)

4 Means of losing weight (4)

5 Stadium, amphitheatre (5)

6 Scottish meat pudding (6)

7 Resin used to make gramophone records (5)

13 Heighten, intensify (8)

16 Weirdo, eccentric (7)

17 Small alcoholic drink (6)

19 Barren, deserted (5)

20 Walking aid (6)

22 Very overweight (5)

Mindbenders

24 Loaned (4) Solutions: Turn to page

Nailsea Shedders and the Mens Shed Movement

Our Charity originated in Nailsea a little over 12 years ago, hence Nailsea Shedders, but we are not there now. For workshop reasons we are currently based in Wraxall Village Club, BS48 1LE. We meet every Tuesday between 10:00am and 3:00pm and are open to all residents of North Somerset.

We are affiliated to the United Kingdom Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA). The association is made up of many different types of Shed, all of which have the common theme of reducing social isolation through doing things together “Shoulder to Shoulder”. For example Clevedon Shed is for men and is focussed on woodworking. Our Shed, however, is mixed gender and has a repair, recycle, reuse philosophy, similar to a Repair Cafe. Where we differ is that, whilst local Repair Cafes do an excellent job they often have limited opening hours and are constrained by following the Dutch model of repairing items whilst the owner waits. Our Shed group is more flexible, taking items back to our workshop or homes where we are covered by our insurance.

The sorts of things we work on are very varied and include... lamps, benches, lawnmowers, chairs, vacuum cleaners and clocks. We can, where required, 3D print bespoke replacement parts. We do not tend to get involved with micro-electronics, PC’s, laptops, phones, there are good local businesses who can do these. What we tend to say is, if your items cannot be cost effectively repaired locally and are likely to end up in landfill, speak to us.

Two New Services - Arts and Crafts Courses, Repairs Drop-off and Collection: Courtesy of a grant from The Biddle trust through Quartet, starting from Wednesday 20th November (see dates below), we can offer two new services. One is expanding our repair service, the other, an Arts and Crafts Course.

Some dates for the diary: Arts & Crafts, Wednesdays: 20th Nov & 4th Dec: Neurographic Art 18th Dec: Cyanotype Printing

2025: 15th & 29th Jan: Bubble Art 12th & 26th Feb: Painting Bubble drops

REPAIR

Drop an item for repair at our Wraxall workshop on Tuesdays between 10:00am – 3:00pm, Wraxall Village Club, BS48 1LE. Or drop the repair into No65, BS48 1AW on the dates the Arts and Crafts are on. Arts and Crafts upstairs, Drop-in downstairs. E-mail: repairservice@nailseashedders.org If you have serious mobility issues, or for some other good reason you cannot get the Repair to us and it is portable, we may be able to pick it up and return it you.

ARTS AND CRAFTS COURSE

Alternate Wednesdays between 10:00am – 12 Noon. 65 High Street, Nailsea, BS48 1AW. enquiries@nailseashedders.org

UKELELE LEARNING GROUP

Meets at 1:00pm on the first Tuesday of the month for an hour at Wraxall Village Club.

Membership is £10 per month.

Non members attending Arts & Crafts £7.50 per session, £3 Ukelele learning Group.

26th Mar: Making a Metal Rose 23rd Apr & 7th May: Wood turning 21st May: How to paint – Techniques

Is your Windows computer running the latest release of Windows?

With the recent release of Windows 11 24H2, you may want to check that your Windows computer has upgraded itself to this release.

To check if your computer has already updated itself, simply click the Start button and type winver on your keyboard, then press the return or enter key. A box will popup showing the version of Windows.

If it says (on the second line) Version 24H2, then you are on the latest version of Windows. If it does not and you would like to try updating your computer, at your own risk, then please visit this Microsoft website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/software-download/windows11

Once you are here, click the first “Download Now” button, then a file called “Windows 11 Installation Assistant” will download. You can either click “Open File” or double click on the file in your downloads folder.

Sometimes this process asks you to download and run the “PC Health Check” app from Microsoft – this is fine to do and will confirm that your computer will run Windows 11.

If your computer cannot run Windows 11’s latest release, please get in touch (contact details below) and we can provide some options on moving forward. We offer visits to your home or business to assist with this situation.

For those who do not hit any issues, you can proceed with the Windows 11 installation assistant, which will download and install the latest release of Windows 11.

Typically, the speed of this process depends on your internet speed and also your computer speed. On average, the process takes 45 minutes from start to end.

Problem Solutions Ltd. Tel: 07973 536299 Email: sales@e-cps.co.uk

Computer Problems?

• Problem Solving & Repairs

• Virus/Spyware Removal

• New PC Systems

• Broadband/WIFI Problems

• Performance Improvement

Wireless Networking

iPhone/iPad help

Upgrades

Websites

Help & Tuition

have mobile engineers in your area or with your permission we can access your computer remotely.

Small and large screen entertainment this December

Winter is when small and large screen entertainment is most popular as we flock to cinemas and enjoy the best of the telly. Here are some highlights this December.

December is when the biggest and best movies are released because it is the month when many of us have a regular night out at the cinema, and as Christmas approaches festive telly has been a highlight for families around the country for generations.

Large screen

Three mega movies stand out this Christmas, the sequel to Disney’s The Lion King, Mufasa, The Lion King, the festive Red One and Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Mufasa, The Lion King

The eagerly awaited Disney epic hits cinema screens this December and is bound to delight cinemagoers young and old. The story introduces Mufasa who is an orphaned cub. Mufasa is alone and lost until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, who is the heir to a royal bloodline.

Red One

A Christmas movie but not as we know it, Red One features a stellar cast headed by Dwayne Johnson (who plays Callum Drift, Head of North Pole security for St Nicholas) and Chris Evans (who plays hacker and bounty hunter Jack O’Malley).

When Santa Claus is kidnapped, Drift teams up with Jack O’Malley to rescue him in this daring ecapade.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3

The third instalment of this highly popular animated caper features amongst others the voices of Jim Carey, once again, and Keanu Reeves and is bound to be a hit amongst younger audiences.

This movie sees Knuckles and Tails reunite with Sonic to battle Reeves’ character Shadow who is a formidable enemy with astonishing powers.

TV highlights

Christmas is all about great telly. Traditionally it is a time when families come together, before during and after the holidays to enjoy classic repeats of the wonderful sitcoms and dramas we remember from our childhood to share them with the next generation but there are some new, original shows to enjoy this year.

Call the Midwife Christmas Special

The Christmas day festive edition of this muchloved medical drama heralds the start of Season 14 and is one of the most watched TV shows. We begin with Christmas 1969 as viewers enjoy the stories of the much-loved characters from Nonnatus House and Dr Turner’s surgery as they care for their East End community.

Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

A treat for young and old the latest instalment from Nick Park’s Aardman Animations premiers on BBC One and iPlayer this Christmas and introduces Norbot the Smart Gnome and the return of the supervillain Feathers McGraw to battle our heroes, Wallace and Gromit.

Gavin and Stacey

A long-awaited return for the much-loved comedy premieres this Christmas with the final ever episode in which we hope writers and stars Ruth Jones and James Corden tie up the loose ends that fans have been waiting for since 2019.

Whether you go out or stay in there is plenty to entertain all the family this December.

Dream Doors celebrates 25 years with

£250 voucher giveaway

Local kitchen makeover company, Dream Doors, recently celebrated their 25th anniversary, and they’re asking their followers to submit their favourite family recipe, or memory in the kitchen over this time.

The company have seen kitchen trends and popular styles change over the past 25 years, but one thing remains the same is that the kitchen space is the heart of any home. This campaign encourages customers to reminisce on their favourite times, with one lucky winner being gifted a £250 food shop voucher to recreate their favourite recipe.

Dream Doors began trading in 1999 and now has 90 showrooms nationwide, with their North Somerset showroom opening in 2012, after finding a gap in the market for affordable kitchen makeovers that caused minimal disruption to the home. By simply replacing the doors and drawer fronts, Dream Doors allows you to completely revamp your space, for up to 50% less than a fully fitted kitchen. Avoiding the unnecessary removal of the cabinets allows for their fitters to be in and out in as little as 2-3 days, meaning customers can be enjoying their new kitchen in no time!

Dream Doors also have a commitment to sustainability, providing kitchens that benefit both the homeowner, and the planet. By actively encouraging customers to reuse their existing cabinetry, and ensuring all materials removed are disposed of responsibly, Dream Doors North Somerset are making every effort to reduce the impact to the environment made by the kitchen industry.

Do you have a memory to share? Visit the Dream Doors Facebook page to enter!

Why not visit our showroom at 5 The Precinct, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, Somerset BS49 5JG to see how you can start your kitchen makeover journey. There you can view a wide range of kitchen doors styles and colours, as well a selection of modern appliances, storage solutions, and lighting options, to complete your kitchen makeover.

QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS

by simply replacing the doors and worktops

› Replacement kitchen doors

› Cost effective made to measure solution

› Worktops and appliances

› Quick installation in 2-3 days by local professionals

5 The Precinct, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, BS49 5JG Call us now for a free estimate:

See

and Hear the Difference,

with Andrew Bird Hearing at Tudball Opticians

Every Wednesday at Tudball Opticians on Hill Road, Andrew Bird continues to conduct one of Clevedon’s longest standing, independent hearing clinics offering professional ear care services and looking after Clevedon’s ears for the past fourteen years.

Maintaining its independence, Andy’s company ‘Andrew Bird Hearing’ has continued to operate as a traditional, family practice since 2007 and their client-first approach and personal passion to provide exceptional care are values shared with Lucie, the owner of Tudball Opticians.

As a fully qualified Hearing Aid Audiologist since 2003, Andy is available for comprehensive hearing tests and provide, service and repair hearing aids. Blocked ears? Andy is equally as qualified to perform ear wax removal, using water-less micro suction or traditional irrigation (syringing) techniques to restore your hearing dramatically.

Incorporating Andrew Bird Hearing’s expertise into Tudball Opticians’ own excellent optical offerings provides clients with access to both top-tier hearing and eye care, a convenient ‘one stop shop’ for your eyes and ears!

For hearing appointments, call 01275 244460.

For optical appointments, call Tudball Opticians on 01275 343353

Support for the Bereaved in the Clevedon Area

You will receive a warm welcome at our Cruse drop-in support group, which will be held at the Clevedon Community Centre, Princes Road, between 10:00am and 12 noon on Friday 20th December. Trained bereavement volunteers are present and refreshments are provided. Please bring a friend if you wish.

The Cruse Walk and Talk, an accompanied planned walk in the area, will not take place in December but will re-start in January 2025. If you wish to join for the first time, please register at our drop-in or email cruseclevedonyvette@gmail. com

Join us at Christchurch this Christmas!

We warmly invite you to join us at Christchurch on Chapel Hill this Christmas as we celebrate the birth of Jesus with puppets, magic tricks, Christingles, carols and so much more! For details of who we are and all that happens here at Christmas and throughout the year (eg our children’s and youth groups, Little Fish toddler group, Grieve Well Café for those who are bereaved, Alpha, mental wellbeing courses, bereavement courses), please visit www.christchurch-clevedon.org.uk or contact us: info@christchurch-clevedon.org.uk

We look forward to seeing you!

Fibromyalgia Support Group

We are a group of people who are living with Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions who meet regularly to support each other. We meet on the third Monday every month plus for coffee in Nuffield Health (Weston) on Thursday mornings. Meetings are a mix of speakers, chat and information. We have a weekly hydrotherapy group and organize trips and meals out plus interest groups as required. For more information, call Val 07411989478 or Jules 07840189641; email wsmfibro@gmail.com

Local band has room for new players!

Do you play a violin or other stringed instrument or a trumpet or clarinet or other wind instrument? Do you play drums? Are you looking to play with others?

Pill Festival Band welcomes new players and if you want to join a band why not come along on a Monday night? We usually meet 7:00pm at Penny Brohn, Ham Green and details are on our web site www.pfb.org.uk

We are a friendly group, we play a range of popular music at local events and always have room for more members.

Weston Super Mare Philatelic Society, Conservative Club, BS23 1QX

Weston S Mare Philatelic Society is a small dedicated and friendly society exploring the wide range of stamps. We hold our meetings on the 2nd Tuesday at 2:00pm and the 4th Tuesday at 7:00pm each month. We give displays and hold discussions along with quizzes and visiting speakers, all are welcome. Whether you are a beginner or expert your input will be welcomed at the Conservative Club Alexandra Parade, just across the road from Tesco’s. We look forward to seeing you, for further information contact me atdarrell.kellett@outlook.com

Portishead Concert Band

If you play a musical instrument, join us for our

exciting autumn/winter season. Current and rusty players, of any age, welcome. Lots of enjoyment to be had playing with other people.

Come and join us every Tuesday from 7:30pm until 9:00pm at St Nicolas’ Church, Nore Road, Portishead BS20 8EN.

For more information:Contact Chris on 07790446188 cdpearce@btinternet.com Facebook www.facebook.com/search/ top?q=portishead%20concert%20band

It might be Winter but stay Fit and Healthy

Join Weston Walking Group for North Somerset Walks. We walk on Wednesdays and Saturdays in all parts of North Somerset and beyond. Why not come and join us enjoying fresh country air, excellent views and friendly company. Visit our website www.westonwalkinggroup.co.uk to check where the next walk is, and come and join us.

You will be made very welcome.

Charles Green

Happy Balance…

Supporting your busy life

We are passionate about re-cycling, re-housing and re-using items, working with many local charities we distribute your unwanted items on your behalf. We always offer a FREE 1hour consultation to introduce ourselves and to discuss how we can help you.

Our clients know that allocating time to work alongside Happy Balance provides the impetus they need to make a start. Through experience we understand the importance of working with you at your pace, listening to you and helping you put into action what you want to achieve.

These are all scenarios from clients we have worked with:

• ‘I don’t want to leave it for the kids to sort’ – Feeling mindful that you need to get your home in order? You don’t want the family having to sort through everything when you are gone? We will work with you to streamline your home, recycle unwanted items and organise belongings you may wish to distribute to family and friends.

• My partner/parent has died – You’re not only dealing with grief but also thinking about how you clear the house? We are NOT house clearance. We work with you sensitively, practically and confidentially to organise their affairs and clear the house for sale or other.

• I am embarrassed – It’s all got on top of me and I just feel overwhelmed – Are you buying too many items, storing them away and feeling like you may be hoarding? Claire and SJ are non judgemental and through experience can help you declutter and regain control.

• I’m moving and need to downsize – I can’t physically or emotionally cope with my move and I need help. We are hands-on in preparing your belongings ensuring that when your removal firm comes to move you that you have already sorted through, de-cluttered and made sure all your items, big and small will fit into your new home giving you peace of mind.

• ‘Our family space isn’t working for us’ –Who can help us? Happy Balance will give you guidance, ideas and hands on support to make the changes to make your home a living space and not a storage space.

The Twelve Days of Gleaming!

On the first day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the second day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Two Clean Roasting Tins… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the third day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: 3 New Oven Liners, Two Clean Roasting Tins… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the fourth day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Four Gleaming Glass Doors, 3 New Oven Liners… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the fifth day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Five Sparkling Racks, Four Gleaming Glass Doors… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the sixth day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Six Shiny New Bulbs, Five Sparkling Racks… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the seventh day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Seven Seals Degreased, Six Shiny

New Bulbs… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the eighth day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Eight Hinges Gliding, Seven Seals Degreased… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the ninth day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Nine Fan Blades Spinning, Eight Hinges Gliding… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the tenth day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Ten Shiny Oven Walls, Nine Fan Blades Spinning… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the eleventh day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: Eleven Cooker Knobs Turning, Ten Shiny Oven Walls… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers.

On the twelfth day of Gleaming my true love sent to me: 12 HOURS CLEANING SAVED, Eleven Cooker Knobs Turning… and A Gleaming Cooker cleaned by OvenGleamers!!

Call Graham at OvenGleamers TODAY on 01275 370571 and get yours gleamed!

A Good Read

A Cornish Christmas Murder

A Cornish Christmas Murder is a delightful seasonal mystery that transports readers to the cozy, scenic village of Penstowan. In this latest instalment of the Jodie Parker Mystery series, we find the former detective turned amateur sleuth, Jodie “Nosey” Parker, knee-deep in yuletide festivities, only to have the holiday spirit interrupted by a gruesome murder.

The novel begins with Jodie hoping for a quiet Christmas with her family, but things take an unexpected turn when a high-profile celebrity chef is found dead at the local holiday festival. With the charming Cornish landscape covered in snow, the idyllic setting makes for a perfect contrast to the sinister crime that unfolds. As Jodie steps in to help the local police unravel the mystery, readers are treated to an engaging plot full of twists, red herrings, and quirky village characters.

Leitch’s storytelling is full of warmth and humour. This is not a novel for lovers of gruesome gritty city crime set in the real world. Here the cozy atmosphere, mixed with an array of delicious Christmas treats, makes for a festive, pageturning experience. Jodie’s wit and determination make her an endearing protagonist who feels like an old friend, and her dynamic with the colourful cast brings the village to life.

A Cornish Christmas Murder is a satisfying blend of mystery and holiday charm, perfect for readers to curl up with during the festive season. Just add a roaring fire and a glass of mulled wine.

The Miracle on Ebenezer Street

This heartwarming and enchanting children’s novel reimagines the spirit of Christmas in a way that will captivate readers young and old. Inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the hero of the story is 9-year-old George, whose life is overshadowed by sadness since his mother dies. Three years later, George’s father has lost all enthusiasm for Christmas, banning any festive celebrations in their home. However, everything changes when George stumbles upon a mysterious Christmas shop and discovers a magical snow globe. This seemingly ordinary item transports George, his father, and his mischievous grandmother on an extraordinary adventure through time and alternate versions of Christmases past, present, and what might be in the future. Each stop on their journey reveals a little more magic, hope, the possibility of healing and rediscovery of joy.

Doyle’s storytelling is woven with vivid imagery, humour, and emotion, making it a real holiday treat. The characters are relatable and full of warmth, especially George, whose longing for Christmas captures the spirit of the season. Doyle blends themes of grief, love, and the importance of family into a story full of whimsy and wonder. This is a delightful and touching read that will become a much-loved Christmas classic. A great stocking-filler.

Join a free and friendly Health Walk!

30 to 60 minute Health Walks are available in Churchill and Cheddar, Clevedon, Congresbury, Long Ashton, Nailsea, Portishead, Weston-superMare, Winscombe and Yatton. No need to book, just come along!

Please see our website for the dates, times and meeting places: www.betterhealthns.co.uk/getactive/walking/ Or contact us at: getactive@nsomerset.gov.uk / 01275 882 730.

Let Your Garden Shine: Support Weston Hospicecare!

Join us in making a difference! By opening you garden, you can help provide ongoing FREE care for patients living with lifelimiting illnesses. Last year, we raised over £11,000.00, and with your support, we can exceed that this year.

Let’s come together to create beautiful spaces and raise vital funds for those in need. Open your garden and be a part of this incredible cause! Please contact info@westonhospicecare.org.uk

Top composting tip: how to make your own leaf mould

Heap fallen leaves in a sheltered corner of your garden or add them to a bin built from chicken wire and stakes. Make sure the leaves remain damp. In one year, you can harvest your own soil improver to top dress your borders or, after two years, mix with sharp sand/grit for homemade seed compost. Meanwhile, your leaf pile will provide a safe place for invertebrates to overwinter.

Brought to you by North Somerset Master Composters. To find out about volunteering with us, visit www.gardenorganic.org.uk/nsmc

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