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Advertising in LocalReach is a fantastic way to reach all your existing, and potentially new customers. LocalReach is delivered by Royal Mail to all homes & businesses in your postcode area every month. It is packed with community notices, interesting articles and local businesses. A massive 98% of our advertisers rebook every month so we must be doing something right! So, if you are looking for more business then contact us now. To advertise just go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and fill in the contact form or email hello@localreach.co.uk
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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 2025.
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If you are not getting your monthly copy by the end of the first week of any month please send us an email to hello@localreach.co.uk with the full address of the non delivery and we will ask Royal Mail to investigate and report back.
With warmer weather, longer days, and warm moist soil, April in the UK is the month for sowing, vegetables, flowers and even a new lawn
April is a busy month in every part of the garden, and with the soil warming after the cold of winter but still welcomingly moist growing conditions could not be better for sowing seeds.
Whilst you can just throw grass seed on the ground and it will germinate, careful preparation of the ground will ensure even growth that will result in a lush carpet like lawn.
Whilst many people choose to lay turf for a new lawn growing a lawn from seed can be a more
inexpensive and satisfying process and you can choose a specific seed to suit your garden’s conditions. Begin by de-weeding the area before digging over the ground if it is compacted. Rake carefully in different directions, de-clumping the soil and removing stones until the ground is like a fine crumb. Scatter the grass seed as evenly as possible. Lightly rake over to cover most of the seed and if there is no rain in the forecast water lightly. Water regularly and in seven to fourteen days you should see the first signs of your new lawn.
Because of the risk of cold weather and even the odd frost it is advisable to sow hardy annuals outside in April, half-hardy annuals can of course be sown under glass where they will be offered protection.
My favourite hardy annuals – sunflowers, cornflowers and pot marigolds are also good for insects as they will provide much needed food. There are also some other hardy annuals such as poppies, a flower that brightens any border and provides valuable food for various birds.
Prepare your flower bed by raking over well and removing weeds, adding soil enhancer if the ground is heavy as hardy annuals prefer lighter soils. If you sow in drills, or straight lines this will make future weeding easier as the plants grow.
Many vegetables can be sown directly into the soil in April, carrots and peas being two good examples. In facts carrots should only be sown directly into the soil as transplanting once sown disturbs their fragile roots. Prepare the soil by raking well and removing weeds. Make drills in the ground and sow sparingly. Gently cover with finely raked soil and water with a watering can fitted with a rose.
Peas will only germinate if the soil temperature is around ten degrees so if the weather is still chilly wait until everything warms up. You can use cloches to help warm the sowing area. Prepare and rake the soil and sow in parallel lines about four inches apart, cover carefully and water well.
As April can be a temperamental month weather wise, be prepared to water if there is no or little rain and cover tender seedlings if a frost or wintery precipitation return.
By Rob Bullock
Ensuring your will is comprehensive is crucial to avoid potential issues if it is not done correctly or at all. Here are some significant points to consider:
Non-family members could receive some of your estate: If your married children get divorced, would you want any portion of your estate to end up with your ex-son or daughter-in-law? Additionally, if your surviving spouse remarries, would you want any part of your estate to be inherited by the new spouse? Without a properly drafted will, unintended beneficiaries may receive your assets, causing conflicts and distress among your loved ones.
The Local Authority could become the largest benefactor of your estate: If you require longterm care, the entire value of your house might need to be sold to cover care home costs, significantly reducing the inheritance for your family. By planning ahead and drafting a will, you can protect your estate and ensure it is distributed according to your wishes, thus safeguarding your family’s future.
The taxman could receive more than he is entitled to: Without proper estate planning, your estate might face higher taxes. Properly structuring your will can help minimize tax liabilities and maximize the inheritance for your loved ones. This can include using trusts and other tax-efficient strategies to ensure that more of your estate goes to your intended beneficiaries.
Incapacity and decision-making: If you become incapacitated, who would you trust to make decisions about your finances and health? Drafting a Lasting Power of Attorney allows you to appoint trusted individuals to make these crucial decisions on your behalf, ensuring your wishes are respected and carried out appropriately.
Professional advice is essential to protect you and your family, giving you peace of mind and preventing any of these issues from arising.
Call Andy now on 01278 806143
Burnham Moose meet on the 4th Thursday of the month at Berrow Village Hall at 7:00pm, with various speakers and guests.
We are a friendly group whose aim is to raise monies for local charities and good causes, through our social & fun events, we also support members welfare and concerns.
Our March 27th Meeting is our presentation night, giving monies raised to good causes, then April 24th is the start of our Moose year, more fun fundraising, interesting speakers and more
For more details, please visit our web sitewww.mooselodge123bos.org
Huntspill Hub, West Huntspill TA9 3RN, 3rd April 2:30pm.
‘A trip to the Antarctic’ - This month’s talk is by John Lamb who lives in the village. In 1961/62 he went on an expedition with Explorers to the Antarctic. He will be showing us slides of his remarkable journey. Followed by Tea & Cake, also a raffle. Entry £4 per person.
On Saturday 5th April from 10:00am - 12 noon next door to the swimming pool.
Funds raised are for upkeep of the building that is used by many local groups.
Tea/coffee available(free refills),also cakes, gifts and a raffle.
Brent Knoll Guides, Brownies, Rainbows and Parish Hall Committee are holding our Annual Jumble Sale on Saturday 5th April at 10:30am. Admission 50p.
Lots of bargains on offer Clothes, Bric-a-Brac, Toys, Games, Books, DVDs and lots more. Café serving Tea, Coffee and Biscuits.
5th April, 7:00pm at West Huntspill Church TA9
3RN. Tickets £7.50 to include refreshments. Come and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment.
Our next meeting in April will be at the Community Centre, Berrow Road, Burnham-on-Sea on Monday 7th April at 7:00pm for 7:30pm. Our speaker is James Bailey on topiary.
Our next meeting will be Tuesday 8th April at the Catholic Church Hall, Oxford Street, Burnham-onSea TA8 1LL at 7:30pm. Doors are open 7:00pm, come along and have a chat and a tea/coffee before the Demonstration given by Barbara Clatworthy from Combe Martin begins. Her title is “SHOWTIME”. Sounds as though we are in for a treat.
Our plant stall will also be stocked with plenty of plants for your spring garden.
Our April meeting will be on Wednesday 9th when Alan Wheway will give a presentation about ‘The Quakers of Burnham’.
The time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm; the venue: King Alfred School Lecture Theatre. Membership £10 per season, visitors £5 per session. Parking in visitors car park or in small car park in front of main building. Please bring a torch as site lighting is not good in some places.
Saturday 12th April at Brent Knoll Parish Hall (TA9 4EH) - 10:00am to 12 noon.
Locally produced fresh Pork & Beef, Goat’s milk, cheese and meat, Eggs, Pickles and Preserves, Seasonal Vegetables, Westcroft Cider, Cakes, Handmade Cards, Handbags, Scarves, Silver & Beaded Jewellery, Children’s Games and Toys, Local Crafts, Dog Treats, Textiles, etc., CDs, DVDs, Books and Bric-a-Brac. Plus Raffle.
The Parish Café will be serving drinks, light snacks & Cakes.
Entrance FREE. Proceeds to Brent Knoll Parish Hall.
Come and play prize bingo on Saturday 12th April at 2:30pm. Families welcome. Bring your own drinks.
If you are part of the Armed Forces community, come along to our monthly outreach session at the Morland Community Hub, Highbridge, for a brew and banter. Rebecca or Teri will be there from the Armed Forces team at NHS Somerset, as will Jon, Sam or Samantha - our Somerset Armed Forces Link Workers. The next Highbridge session is on the 15th April at 09:30. All details can be found on our web pages nhssomerset.nhs.uk/ armed-forces/armed-forces-outreach/ Don’t sit at home on your own… come along and meet the team!
“Oyez, Oyez, Oyez! Let it be known by the townspeople of Burnham and Highbridge, Somersetshire that our esteemed Mayor, accompanied by her Towncryer, has most generously assented to open the Bowling Green, 3 o’clock, Wednesday 16th April, the year of Our Lord Two Thousand and Twenty Five.
“All are welcome to attend this joyous occasion, perhaps to enjoy a jug of ale or cider. God save the King!”
We are always looking for new members to join our friendly club. For more information, contact Paula on 07901 752840 or burnhambowls@ yahoo.com
the 3rd Thursday of every month. 17th April this month, service starts at 2:30pm.
A dementia friendly space with a short service of well loved hymns, bible readings & prayers.
The service is followed by afternoon tea & sandwiches. Hosted by our lovely volunteers .
3rd Thursday is open to all faiths or none.
Back by popular demand, join Weston Hospicecare for a funfilled Easter Trail! Hop along our scenic route in Uphill to discover hidden Easter Clues and win exciting prizes! Enjoy family-friendly activities, challenges, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with your loved ones and supporting your local hospice!
Date: 19.04.2025
Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Uphill Village hall
Sing up at www.westonhospicecare.org.uk
Don’t miss out on this egg-cellent adventure — come make lasting memories this Easter!
Saturday 19th April, 10:30am at East Huntspill Church Hall. Delicious home made cakes in aid of All Saints Church, East Huntspill.
3rd Thursday is a monthly service, open to all and is Dementia & wheelchair friendly.
Held in St. Andrew’s Church, Victoria St. on
Coming up are two Open Days at the club on Saturday 19th April and Friday 23rd May. Look around the club, meet some members and try your hand at outdoor bowls. If you are a new bowler we can then arrange for some free coaching sessions...
Please visit markmoorbowlingclub.co.uk for further news and contact details. Details of this year’s membership fees are there including a special rate for bowlers new to the club whether they are novices or old hands… Go on, give it a go and bowl on!
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#7 Tidy up! Before you do anything else, you need a tidy home and clean kitchen. Put things away, recycle old newspapers and plump the cushions. To ensure a wonderful result with your cooking, your kitchen and its appliances need to be spotless. The last thing you want is your wonderful Easter Roast to taste of the last few weeks dinners. Get that cooker clean: either do it yourself or call OvenGleamers, a professional oven cleaning service to gleam it for you.
#6 Choose the menu. Will you have fish, lamb or a nut roast? Fish is traditionally eaten on Good Friday. Early Christians said that the day of Jesus’ crucifixion should be one of abstaining from meat, so they had fish instead.
#5 Invite your family and friends to join in. Easter is a great time for families and friends so plan something fun. Did you know where we got the Easter Bunny from? Experts say the 18th century when some Germans settled in America. They called him Osterhase because he lay brightly coloured eggs in nests in the bonnets of children.
#4 Get shopping. Prepare that list and pop down the supermarket or even easier shop online and get it all delivered.
#3 Plan the weekend’s activities. Set up an Easter Egg hunt in the house or the garden. Children love finding eggs anywhere!
#2 Get the cooking prepared. Now you’ve a lovely clean kitchen, get baking. Have you got some oven liners to help you? Great for lining roasting tins, baking biscuits on or to catch drips. OvenGleamers can supply these too.
#1 Hurrah you’re there. Food planned, friends and family on their way and fun events sorted. But if all else fails – try the National Trust for Easter Trails, buy the ready prepared dishes from your favourite supermarket and watch ‘Easter Parade’ on the TV to put you in the mood. Happy Easter. For that gleaming cooker, AGA or Range, just call me today: Graham Rogers, OvenGleamers now on 01278 497541
Burnham Bereavement Cafe, a safe & welcoming space for anyone affected by loss or bereavement.
We are a safe space to explore & contemplate together the great changes ahead. Also to explore the journey through bereavement towards a ‘New Normal’. Share thoughts & feelings, ask questions or just sit quietly amongst friends.
We welcome people of all faiths or none. Tea & Cakes serves by our volunteers.
Every third Sunday at 4:00pm at St Andrews Church Hall, Manor Rd, TA8 2AS. Further info Rev’d Sharon Eldergill 07925 089698. 20th April next meeting.
On Sunday 20th April and Monday 21st April between 2:00pm and 4:30pm, tea and cake will be served for those who maybe have climbed the Knoll and for those who would just like company or to support the church. Weather permitting there will be tables and chairs outside so you can enjoy the expansive view from the churchyard.
Tuesday 22nd April 6:30pm for 7:00pm start. Traditional English foodcold meats and salad followed by a pudding.
Good food and good company.
Tickets £7.50 from 01278 788665 or email allsaintscommunitygroup @outlook.com
Please bring your own drink.
In aid of All Saints Church & Church Hall, East Huntspill. FREE Coffee, Cake and Friendly Conversation, West Huntspill, Methodist Church
Come and make new friends, Friday 25th April. 10:30am - 12 Noon. There will be plenty on our
Sales Table, including homemade products, books, puzzles and various items of Bric a Brac. Donations this year are for the RNLI, a very worthwhile institution in a coastal area.
Please come and make yourselves known to us. We will be pleased to meet you.
The choir will be singing the uplifting music of Handel Messiah and joined by four professional soloists and an orchestra. The performance will be led by the choir’s Musical Director, James Davies, accompanied by their wonderful pianist Frances Webb.
Their Spring Concert is being held at St Andrew’s Church, Burnham, on Saturday 26th April. Performance starting at 7:30pm with refreshments being served at the interval.
Tickets are £12.50 and £5.00 for children, and are available from Material Needs, the choir’s website: burnhamandhighbridgechoral.org.uk and choir members or purchased on the door.
If ever you’ve watched the news on April 1st trying to spot the fake story we have a few fun reminders of some classic pranks from years gone by:
The most famous is probably the BBC’s 1957 Panorama report on the bumper spaghetti crop. Huge numbers of viewers were duped by the footage of Swiss peasants gathering long strands of pasta from the trees.
In 1962, Swedish television viewers were fooled into thinking that they could transform their black-
Little Learners @ Berrow Primary Church Academy offer fully funded preschool places for children aged two, three and four years old (full and part time).
Sessions times are available from 8am-5pm.
and-white sets into colour by stretching a nylon stocking over the screen.
Back in 1972, newspapers around the world reported that the body of the Loch Ness Monster had been found floating in the water. It turned out to be a bull elephant seal that had been placed there by a zoo worker as a practical joke.
In 2008, we were stunned to see a BBC film of Adélie penguins flying across the Antarctic on their way to spend the winter in the rainforests of South America. This became one of the most viewed videos on the internet.
In 2023 the Telegraph reported that some of Britain’s tallest buildings, including the BT Tower, were to be converted into wind turbines to help Britain reach net zero under radical climate plans secretly approved by the government. “The Treasury is understood to be ‘hugely supportive’ of the scheme as it will help bring down the cost of electricity in London.
Who knows what the ‘fake news’ stories will be this year, though frankly you might be forgiven for struggling to work out what’s real and what’s not at the moment. Such are the crazy times in which we live that every day feels like April Fools Day!
By Lisa Johnson
Come and visit us at Berrow Little Learners so you can see just how much learning and fun your child could have.
We have a fantastic outdoor learning space and an engaging curriculum that inspires all of our children at Little Learners.
LEARNERS ENQUIRY FORM PLEASE CONTACT LITTLE LEARNERS ON 01278 783614 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE A VISIT
Did you know that Microsoft have incorporated AI (artificial intelligence) into their latest version of Microsoft Word. This is with a system called “Copilot”. Using Copilot in Word offers a variety of benefits:
1. Enhanced Productivity: With Copilot, you can streamline tasks such as summarizing documents, generating text, and formatting. This frees up more time for focusing on content creation and editing.
2. Grammar and Style Assistance: Copilot provides suggestions to improve your writing style and correct grammatical errors, ensuring your documents are polished and professional.
3. Collaboration: Copilot can help with collaborative tasks, such as tracking changes, suggesting edits, and managing comments, making it easier to work with others on shared documents.
4. Research and Information: Quickly find relevant information and data using Copilot’s search capabilities. It can pull in facts, definitions, and other resources to support your writing.
5. Creative Assistance: Whether you’re drafting a report, writing a story, or creating a presentation, Copilot can offer creative suggestions and help brainstorm ideas to enhance your work.
6. Task Automation: Automate repetitive tasks like formatting, creating tables of contents, and generating references, saving you time and reducing the chance of errors.
In short, Copilot in Word can help you work smarter, not harder. It’s like having a personal assistant who’s always ready to lend a hand. It may surprise you to read that all the bullet points above were generated using AI, simply by asking “give me the benefits of using copilot in Word”
Copilot is also part of Windows 11 and can be found along the taskbar in the form of a colourful icon, as shown top right of this page. Give it a try! Ask it a question or two and test it out. Please get in touch if we can be of any help with your home or work IT.
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West Huntspill Horticultural Society will be holding their popular Annual Plant Sale of Flower and Vegetable plants on Thursday 8th May, 7:30pm, at the Balliol Hall, West Huntspill. There will be a good selection of quality bedding, container and vegetable plants grown by our members and Kings Gardening Nurseries.
Please come along and support your local society. Profits go towards the running costs of our popular summer Flower, Vegetable and Craft Show.
Contact westhuntspillhortsociety@gmail.com for further information if required.
We would love to see you at our Spring Production which will be taking place at Berrow Village Hall on 29th, 30th and 31st May starting at 7:30pm.
Doors open at 6.45 and the Village Hall provides a bar.
The play, “A Christmas Carol by the Farnsdale Women’s Guild” is a rollicking comedy of misunderstanding and rivalry set around the Women’s Guild’s rehearsals for the play itself.
For tickets at £10.00 each contact Adele on 07831 197512.
We meet on the 2nd Monday of the month. It is a lively sociable group, some sufferers attend with a partner/carer, friend, or family member. A chat, refreshments (donation) and a raffle from donated prizes are regular features. We occasionally invite speakers or engage in fun activities.
Look forward to welcoming any new members and continuing to see our regulars. It’s at the Catholic Church Hall, Burnham, TA8 1LL from 2:00pm – 4:00pm.
For more info call Sandra 01278 760451 or Roger on 01278 783696.
Ingredients:
Crumble top
260g plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
300g soft light brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
170g unsalted butter,
Cake
260g plain flour
70g wholewheat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsps. ground ginger
1/2 tsp salt
300g light soft brown sugar
170g unsalted butter, softened.
2 tsps. vanilla paste
4 eggs at room temperature
225ml buttermilk or natural yoghurt
400g Rhubarb, cut into 1.5-2cm chunks.
Method:
Crumble Topping
Melt the butter in a saucepan. In a bowl sift together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder and salt. Stir through the sugar then add the melted butter and mix together with a spoon until it clumps together and becomes crumbly.
Set aside.
Cake
Preheat the oven to 180C / 160 fan Gas mark 4.
Line a 13x9-inch pan with greaseproof paper so the paper overhangs the sides of the pan.
Sift together the flours, salt, baking powder and ground ginger, adding the bran from the wholewheat flour.
Place the brown sugar, softened butter, and vanilla in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat on medium speed until fluffy and pale.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition until well combined.
Fold in one third of the flour mixture gently. Add half of the buttermilk and mix until just combined. Add the next third of the flour mixture and fold in. Add the remaining buttermilk, mix it in then add the remaining third of the flour and fold until just combined. Finally mix everything together gently for another 30 seconds to make a smooth batter. Place the batter in the pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle half the rhubarb over the top of the batter, then spread two thirds of the crumb mixture, then the remaining rhubarb followed by the rest of the crumb mixture.
Place the pan so that the top is level with the centre of the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You don’t need a thermometer to check if it’s done but it does make things easier. The temperature of the cake in the centre should be about 95C when it’s cooked. Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Use the excess greaseproof paper to remove the cake from the pan.
Allow the cake to cool completely. Sprinkle with icing sugar, cut into squares, and serve with thick yogurt or creme fraiche.
If you scratch or cut Colourfence, the ingenious zinc element in the Zincalume steel reacts with moisture to form a protective barrier to prevent any corrosion with no action needed from you.
Colourfence are transforming gardens across Somerset!
It may do “exactly what it says on the tin” but let’s face it, treating a timber fence can never be called fun! In fact, owning a timber fence isn’t much fun either with costly, time consuming maintenance and repairs almost every year.
Finally, the alternative to timber fencing…our fence goes up and stays up, resisting wind gusts of up to 130mph!
Colourfence fencing solutions are made from innovative Colorbond steel, virtually maintenance free with an occasional wash down with water to keep it looking as good as new - so you never need to pick up that paintbrush again!, Guaranteed not to rot, warp, chip or peel for 25 years.
Available in a variety of heights and colours with or without trellis, our skilled installation team will make short work of transforming your garden.
The best news is the pricing is just as attractive, starting costs are in line with comparable traditional systems but offer the ongoing peace of mind that your investment will continue to save time and money year after year.
For those of us who want a low maintenance garden, Colourfence promises a lifetime of hassle-free enjoyment.
Across
1 Useful kitchen gadget (4,9)
8 Artificial (6)
9 Panama, Suez, Caledonian _____ (6)
11 Large American wild cat (4)
12 Breakout, flee (6)
14 Communal, mutual (6)
15 Surface, side (5)
17 Series of linked metal rings (5)
19 Prejudiced, wrongful (6)
21 Glum (6)
24 Automobiles (4)
25 Flip. overturn (6)
26 Offer recommendation (6)
27 Tolerant, empathetic (13)
Down
2 Famous cricket ground (5)
3 Play, production (5)
4 Admire, value (7)
5 Muscle spasm (5)
6 Genre of painting (5,4)
7 Curtail, dwindle (6)
10 Chuckle, guffaw (5)
13 Are rich in underground seams of fuel (9)
16 Throw out, dislodge (5)
17 Starchy tuberous root (7)
18 Agency, office (6)
20 Grinds, rubs (5)
22 Extremely angry (5)
23 Builder (5)
Serendipity Singers enjoy performing. We sing songs from musicals and popular songs from all-time-classics to the present. The music is specifically arranged to suit all voices.
We rehearse on Monday at 2:30pm in St. Andrews Church Hall, Burnham. At present, we would like to increase the number of Altos and Men within the choir.
We give each year about 20 performances (with three repertoires) and are always looking for chances to entertain.
Please email us at: singers@mail.co.uk
Phone: Ann Hall - 01278 789001
Burnham Netball Club, Berrow Village Hall outside court, Parsonage Road, Berrow TA8 2NL. We play Monday and Tuesday evening, 7:00pm start, play for 1 hour, lots of breaks. £2 per person. All abilities welcome.
We have a Facebook group Highbridge, Burnham, Berrow Netball club if you would like to join our friendly club, please join our Facebook group, you will find all our games on there, you can put your name down on the day you want to play. We are always on the lookout for new members.
Burnham Carers Group, from Somerset Carers Service is a free, informal gathering for people who help a friend or family member to complete daily tasks they would struggle with independently. We socialise, share ideas and to talk about our experiences. Professional speakers and service providers also visit to offer support and information.
We meet every fourth Tuesday of the month, 10:00am at Waffle Hub Methodist Church. Call Cath on 07535279359 before attending for the first time in case of schedule changes. The Somerset Carers Service Advice Line: 0800 3168600 carers@somersetrcc.org.uk www.somersetcarers.org
By Martha Wells
This is the first novella in the Murderbot Diaries series. It’s a riveting and witty exploration of identity, autonomy, and humanity through the perspective of a self-aware security bot. The protagonist, a rogue SecUnit that refers to itself as “Murderbot,” has hacked its governor module, gaining freedom from its programming. Despite this, Murderbot prefers to spend its time consuming media rather than engaging with humans or exploring its newfound independence.
The story follows Murderbot as it reluctantly protects a group of scientists on a survey mission to an uncharted planet. When their mission is jeopardized by a rival corporation’s sabotage, Murderbot must confront its fear of human interaction in order to save its clients. Through its interactions, Murderbot reveals a deep internal struggle with its purpose, autonomy, and desire to remain emotionally distant, even as it inadvertently forms bonds with the humans it protects.
Wells’ narrative is fast paced, infused with sharp humour and keen observations about humanity’s flaws and resilience. Murderbot’s voice is a sarcastic, introspective, and touchingly relatable, which means the reader will find themselves rooting for the reluctant hero. The novella raises questions about free will, artificial intelligence, and the meaning of personhood, all without sacrificing any of the plot’s tension and action.
Although officially Sci-fi, sceptics of the genre shouldn’t be put off. This is at its heart, characterdriven storytelling with added sharp commentary on technology and human relationships. The blend of humour, and high-stakes adventure makes it a winner for all readers.
By Kirsty Applebaum
TrooFriend is a compelling novel aimed at ages 10-14, that explores themes of friendship, technology, and ethical dilemmas in a world increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence. The story follows Sarah, a lonely girl with toobusy parents, who longs for a pet. Instead, her parents buy her a TrooFriend, a highly advanced robot companion designed to mimic human interactions but programmed never to harm or deceive. As Sarah bonds with her TrooFriend, who she name Ivy, their relationship begins to blur the lines between real and artificial connections, forcing Sarah to confront questions about authenticity, trust, and what it truly means to have a friend, and to be one.
Applebaum’s captures the struggles of growing up, feeling isolated and misunderstood, while interweaving an intriguing exploration of AI ethics. Ivy’s character raises questions about free will, identity, and the role of technology in human lives. Despite Ivy’s advanced programming, her inability to feel emotions or act outside her directives creates some poignant moments
The book’s pacing is brisk, and the dialogue feels authentic. Its nuanced themes will ensure there’s plenty of material for discussion. Applebaum balances the moral dilemmas posed by AI, with Sarah’s personal journey, creating a layered narrative that is both accessible and thoughtprovoking.
TrooFriend is a novel for today’s children, experiencing the complexities of human relationships alongside the implications of their tech-driven future. Although aimed at early teens it’s actually a valuable read for all ages
By Tash Donovan
Come and join us every week at our Community Hubs. We enjoy having a chat, playing games and meeting new people. Berrow hub is every Tuesday in Berrow Village Hall form 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Brean Hub is every Thursday at Brean Village Hall from 1:00pm - 3:00pm. We provide tea/coffee and cakes and a safe place to be - people can give a donation if they wish. Lunches with entertainment are held on special occasions.
The Village Agent attends both hubs during the 3rd week of the month. Come and join us!
Music for the Memory Singalong
Come & have a cuppa & a singalong of your favourite tunes.
‘Music for the Memory‘ takes place fortnightly on Tuesday afternoons at Burnham on Sea Baptist Church, from 2:30pm to 3:30pm. The cost is £3.00.
A qualified music facilitator leads the group. Our
lovely volunteers serve Tea, Coffee & Biscuits. Dementia & Wheelchair friendly.
Are you or your young person aged 10-18 years? Every Tuesday 4:30pm - 6:00pm we run a free Youth and Social Group at Morland Community Hub, Highbridge. This is a fun and relaxed group where young people can meet new people, get involved in making tasty food, play table tennis and chat about whatever’s on your mind.
For more information or to sign up, please contact amy.bolger@barnardos.org.uk or 07729300857
Weston Walking Group walk on Wednesdays and Saturdays in all parts of Somerset. 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 very welcome.
Don’t throw it away, Try the Repair Cafe!
Clothing, furnishings, small household items, including toys... anything portable. Bring it along to our willing band of volunteers.
No charge, although donations welcome.
Every 1st Wednesday of the month at The Waffle Hub, Methodist Church, Burnham and...
Every 3rd Saturday of the month at The Purple Spoon, YMCA Highbridge. 10:00am until 1:00pm. Looking forward to seeing you!
Mark Badminton Club is welcoming all new members. We are a friendly group who play badminton at Mark Sedgemoor Manor school Sports Hall every Wednesday evening from 8:00pm - 10:00pm. All abilities welcome.
To find out more please call 01278 641516. We’d love to hear from you.
The Burnham u3a offers a variety of activities for people who are either retired, semi-retired or no longer in full time employment. The u3a have groups for anything from table tennis to French to philosophy to various craft groups or opportunities to just socialise. Come along to one of our Coffee Mornings (between 9:45am and 11:30am) on a Thursday morning at the Burnham Community Centre (5 Berrow Rd, near Burnham swimming pool) to get information or to join, or contact us via: website www.burnhamu3a.com
Or email – chairman@burnhamu3a.com
West Mendip Orchestra would like to welcome new members
We would particularly like to hear from string and brass players (trumpets and horns)
interested in coming to play a variety of classical music, with a friendly orchestra. We rehearse at The Lynch Chapel in Winscombe on Fridays 7:45pm - 9:30pm (incl tea/coffee break) and we perform three concerts a year.
Further information: west-mendip-orchestra.org.uk
Or email contact@west-mendip-orchestra.co.uk
Secretary Shirley Vickery-Mills
Every Saturday in East Huntspill Church Hall, 10:30am - 12 noon. Come along for a tea/coffee and a friendly chat. For more details call 01278 786790
Everyone is welcome to join us every Sunday morning at 10:30am in the Bay Centre, Cassis Close, Burnham on Sea TA8 1NN. Songs old and new. Bible based ministry from local pastors each week. Jesus is the answer to the needs of the world today. Free tea or coffee after the service. Come and see that the lord is good. God bless you. 01278 229965.
We’re a new friendly group aged 55+, looking for new members! Our meals are at Taunton restaurants, for maximum 6 people, so members can talk and get to know each other. The group is managed entirely on-line so members must be computer literate. To find out more, simply join Meetup.com (which is free), or Login, then search for Taunton Eating Out Group. Then you can read the ‘About’ page, view events on our calendar – usually 2 meals each monthand apply to join. We look forward to meeting you!
‘Share experiences and enjoy companionship socialising with likeminded
Street Branch Royal Naval Association covers
all areas of Somerset and meets monthly in the Wessex Hotel, 15 High St. Street, Somerset BA16 0EF.
Current and ex RN, RM, WRNS, RFA, Reserves and Commonwealth personnel are welcome. Associate membership is also available to relatives of current and former serving personnel, Sea/Marine Cadet staff and civilians. Monthly meetings include a raffle and end with the option of staying for lunch at the hotel.
Contact Chairman Mike Jayes, Tel: 07805 516946 Email: streetrnachair@gmail.com for details of the next meeting.
Charles Bonnet Syndrome is linked to sight loss. When you lose your sight, your brain gets less information from your eyes so the brain can make up for this by creating hallucinations. Not everyone who suffers sight loss experiences CBS, for those who do, it is quite frightening.
Do you know of anyone suffering CBS? Are they scared to mention it?
Somerset Sight your local charity who supports blind and partially sighted people across Somerset with practical and emotional support.
For more information, please contact 01823 333818 or email admin@somersetsight.org.uk Together we can make change that saves lives
As a listening volunteer, you can make a real difference to someone’s future. You’ll receive full training to prepare you for the kinds of conversations you’ll have. And when you start out, you’ll have a mentor with you, to give you confidence you’re doing the right thing.
Our listening volunteers are there for anyone who needs emotional support. You will learn new skills and the confidence to use them, including understanding people and managing difficult conversations. We are a small friendly, supportive branch.
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Shoreline Property Maintenance
Shoreline Property Maintenance
Shoreline Property Maintenance
Shoreline Property Maintenance
House and Garden Maintenance
House and Garden Maintenance
House and Garden Maintenance
House and Garden Maintenance
Based in
House and Garden Maintenance
Based in Burnham-on-Sea
Based in Burnham-on-Sea
Based in Burnham-on-Sea
Based in Burnham-on-Sea
• Drain and gutter unblocking
• Drain and gutter unblocking
• Drain and gutter unblocking
• Drain and gutter unblocking
• Strimming
• Strimming
• Strimming
• Strimming
• Door locks repaired or replaced
• Door locks repaired or replaced
• Door locks repaired or replaced
• Door locks repaired or replaced
• Patio and paving
• Patio and paving
• Patio and paving
• Patio and paving
• Brick and blockwork repairs
• Brick and blockwork repairs
• Brick and blockwork repairs
• Brick and blockwork repairs
• Fencing
• Fencing
• Fencing
• Fencing
• All aspects of garden maintenance
• All aspects of garden maintenance
• All aspects of garden maintenance
• All aspects of garden maintenance
• Garage locks
• Garage locks
• Garage locks
• Garage locks
• Garden waste taken away
• Garden waste taken away
• Garden waste taken away
• Garden waste taken away
• Lawn mowing
• Lawn mowing
• Lawn mowing
• Lawn mowing
• Window repairs
• Window repairs
• Window repairs
• Window repairs
• Hedge trimming
• Hedge trimming
• Hedge trimming
• Hedge trimming
• Carpentry
• Carpentry
• Carpentry
• Carpentry
• Painting
• Painting
• Painting
• Painting
• Tiling
• Tiling
• Tiling
• Tiling
• Plumbing
• Plumbing
• Plumbing
• Plumbing
* Small jobs welcome *
* Small jobs welcome *
* Small jobs welcome *
* Small jobs welcome *
* Free estimates * * No call-out charges *
* Free estimates * * No call-out charges *
* Free estimates * * No call-out charges *
* Free estimates * * No call-out charges *
Phone: 01278 795056
Phone: 01278 795056
Phone: 01278 795056
Phone: 01278 795056
Mob: 07715 205676
Phone: 01278 795056
Mob: 07715 205676
Mob: 07715 205676
Mob: 07715 205676
Mob: 07715 205676
Local Friendly Service
Local Friendly Service
Local Friendly Service
Local Friendly Service
Phone: 01278 328654 Mob: 07715 205676
Email: hrj.shoreline@gmail.com
Email: hrj.shoreline@gmail.com
Email: hrj.shoreline@gmail.com
Email: hrj.shoreline@gmail.com
Email: hrj.shoreline@gmail.com
Email: hrj.shoreline@gmail.com
*Free if you are earning under £25K or on Universal Credit
Flexible Distance Learning Courses (online):
Business & Admin, Customer Service, Digital Marketing, Education & Childcare, Health & Social Care and Team Leading
Mix & Match Short Courses (online):
Choose 5 Mix and Match units from Business & Admin, Customer Service, Education & Childcare, Health & Social Care and Employability
IT & Digital Skills (online & in-college):
Essential Digital Skills Entry 3 & Level 1
IT and Digital Skills Level 2
Maths & English (online & in-college): Functional Skills and GCSE
SWAPS (Sector Based Academy Programmes):
Teaching Assistant, Civil Service and Business Administration (with a guaranteed interview)
Professional Qualifications (online & in-college):
Accounting & Bookkeeping Level 1 & 2
Hair & Beauty Level 2
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