“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.”
Cat Lady
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
Anderson
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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
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Please send us all your news, events and information. We can give you 100 words FREE OF CHARGE each month, plus you can upload a photo. Just fill in the form on the Community Notices page of our web site www.localreach.co.uk/community-notices
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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
North Somerset Philharmonia comes to Portishead for 30th anniversary concert!
North Somerset Philharmonia celebrates its 30th Anniversary with concerts on Saturday 5th April at the Main Hall, Gordano School and a repeat performance on Sunday 6th April at the Lantern Hall, Bristol Beacon. Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro opens the concert followed by Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9 and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.
Conductor: Ben England, Leader: Ali White, Soloist: Ana England
Tickets available from www.nsphilharmonia.org. uk and from the Bristol Beacon website. Adults £15, concessions £12, under 18s £6.
There will be a retiring collection in support of Parkinson’s UK.
Sunday 6th April, 10:00am - 3:30pm. Ashton Court Mansion House, BS41 9JN.
Fine jewellery, gold and silver, china, militaria, books, prints, paintings, vinyl, Vintage clothing and accessories, furniture, watches, toys and lots more.
Over 40 stalls all inside mansion house, Café serving teas, coffees, cakes.
Join us at Pill Memorial Club for a spring craft fair and tabletop sale on Sunday 6th April.
If you would like to book a table please visit the website www. pillmemorialclub.co.uk or pop into the Club and secure. £5 per table. Sellers can arrive from 1:00pm. Doors open to the public 2:00pm - 4:00pm.
Free admission.
Homemade cakes and coffee will be available to purchase.
For many home owners, the loft is an underutilised area because it can be difficult and dangerous to reach. South Bristol based loft ladder installer, Access4Lofts, whose slogan is ‘Creating Space The Easy Way’ can change all that, often in less than a day.
Access4Lofts Bristol South is owned by Anthony Cheung. He advises that; “With space at such a premium, it makes sense to make the most of your loft. Installing a loft ladder is quick and affordable. It’s less expensive than a garden shed, and it means you don’t have to store everything out of the house.”
Freeing up a room currently clogged with clutter can save a lot of trouble and expense, as Anthony explains; “Some people looking for more space consider moving to a bigger home, but this needn’t be necessary. People are surprised by the amount of space a loft can create, we can even include shelving to maximise the space too.”
Call Anthony now to book a free survey and quotation on 01275 293 128, or visit www.Access4Lofts.co.uk/BristolSouth
You can also find them on Facebook as Access4Lofts Bristol South.
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The Club is delighted to host a solo recital by Helen Reid on Tuesday 8th April at 7:30pm in the Teignmouth Room at the Community Centre BS21 7SZ. Helen’s programme includes music by Scarlatti, Ravel, Rachmaninov, Franck, Grainger and Fauré. Admission £12. This is sure to be a sellout event so pre-reservation is essential. For details and to book your seat phone 01275 875262 or email andrea.argent@hotmail.co.uk
The Club’s next event will be in September, schedule to be announced.
Have you ever wanted to enter a flower and produce show but are not sure how to present and grow your flowers and vegetables? The Portishead Horticultural Society who organise the Portishead Summer Show are hosting a talk from
Claire Hart on ‘Growing for Showing’. Claire will be sharing her tips on how to grow for showing at The Folk Hall on Tuesday 8th April - 7:30pm. Visitors are welcome at the meeting for a £3 fee, which includes refreshments.
Join us at our next Tea & Tech 2025 session on Wednesday 9th April from 11:00am – 12:30pm at The Folk Hall, Portishead! These free monthly sessions are designed to make the digital world more accessible while fostering community connections.
Ask for digital advice: Got a tricky tech question? We’re here to help!
Get hands-on guidance: Bring your device and receive tailored support.
Learn new skills: Discover tips to make technology easier and more accessible.
If you’re interested in attending or volunteering, please contact us:
Email: comm@portishead.gov.uk or Phone: 01275 847 078
in April for all
You will receive a friendly welcome on our guided Cruse “Walk and Talk“, Thursday 10th April commencing at 10:00am. Lasting one hour it will be followed by refreshments in a local cafe. If joining for the first time please email crusebristol@ gmail.com with contact details. Our Walk leader will be in touch.
Our monthly Cruse Drop in at the Methodist Hub, High St, will take place on Thursday 24th April between 10:00am and 12 noon. There you will receive support from Cruse trained bereavement volunteers. Refreshments available from our hospitality team.
Our 2025 season starts on 12th April, and we are looking forward to some sunshine!
Ever fancied a go? Why not come along on a Monday Club morning at 10:30am from 14th April and join in the fun? A morning of bowling is followed by socialising in the Clubhouse with tea and coffee
or a drink from the bar. For more details contact: Rod Hawkins: menssecretary@portisheadbowlingclub.org.uk
Susan Gratton: ladiessecretary@portisheadbowlingclub.org.uk Or visit our website: portisheadbowlingclub.org.uk
Our Platinum Jubilee Concert is on Saturday 12th April, in Gordano School Hall at 7:30pm. Our choir will be accompanied by soloists and Portishead Sinfonia, directed by Jonathan Palmer. Our Programme includes: Mozart Vesperae Solennes De Confessore K339, Shostakovitch Piano Concerto No 2 in F (soloist Richard Lennox), Beethoven Mass in C, Op.86. Three renowned composers in one concert, it will be an evening to remember! Tickets at £15.00 are available from choir members. For more details please visit www.portisheadchoral.co.uk or email contact@portisheadchoral.co.uk
A warm welcome from Toby, Claire, Emma, and Sam at Meadows & Wood Hearing Care Specialists. April is here, bringing longer days, blossoming flowers, and, fingers crossed, some spring sunshine.
One of our clients recently shared a lovely story during their follow-up appointment. After being fitted with hearing aids last winter, he was amazed to hear the birds singing around his home again. He’d initially thought there were fewer birds around or they’d simply lost their voices! Moments like this remind us how precious our hearing is and why it’s worth looking after.
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, whether you’re gardening or taking a walk with loved ones. However, some outdoor activities can expose us to loud noises that may harm our hearing. It’s important to be mindful of sounds like lawn mowers or leaf blowers which can reach noise levels of 80 to 96 decibels. Wearing earplugs is a simple way to protect your ears while keeping your garden fresh and tidy.
April can bring some light showers, which can often lead to increased moisture, so if you love spending time outdoors, be sure to take care of your hearing devices, cleaning and drying them daily. You could also consider waterproof hearing aid devices, like Signia’s Pure Charge & Go, which has an optional Dry&Clean charger, refreshing your devices in just 15 minutes - which is very handy for the unpredictable Somerset weather.
While you’re out and about, pause and listen to the birds. If the high-pitched tweets begin to seem faint, it might be time to book an Ear Health Consultation.
We’re here for you at North Somerset’s only full-time, fully independent audiology and tinnitus treatment clinic, with various locations throughout the area. If you have any questions about your hearing health, give us a quick call. Contact our friendly team using the details below.
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 01275 605048
#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 01275 370571
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
Do you look around your home and really feel you’d like to change your furnishings but don’t know how or where to start? Your good intentions sometimes fall at the first hurdle because there are just so many choices of fabric and you really need to see the designs and colours, in your own home. It’s hard to decide, when you’re looking online or on a rack in the bright lights of a shop, rather than in your own room.
Ionaida’s model started years ago, in 1994, when I became the Soft Furnishings manager at Maples, on Queens Road in Bristol. I took fabric pattern books into homes, and helped clients decide on their perfect furnishings, while coordinating and complimenting other items in their rooms.
Now in 2025, with over 30 years experience in interiors and soft furnishings, I have built up an enormous library and invested in over 650 pattern books. I can select the best books to suit your taste and bring them to you, including all styles, contemporary, traditional, eclectic, plains, stripes, velvets and many more, in every colour possible.
I can help and advise you to find your perfect fabric to furnish your home, whether for your windows including curtains and blinds, furniture, bed head boards, lampshades, poles, tracks etc… from starting with an idea to delivery and fitting. We can also accept alterations, if you just can’t bare to part with your existing curtains or have moved and would like to adapt your previous curtains.
Over the years, I’ve helped hundreds of lovely people accomplish their dream of finding the perfect furnishings. So if you’d like me to help you, in your home, or even workplace, as I also hold contract pattern books, do give me a call. Myself and my team of experienced professionals will start making your dreams come true, so if you’re ready, I’d love to hear from you.
Curtain advice, make-up and fitting | Large selection of fabrics to choose from Blind ranges: Venetian, Vertical, Roller, Panels and Roman blinds | Poles and Tracks. Rug samples | Upholstery fabrics and re-upholstery | Paint colour and wallpaper advice Accessory make-ups, cushions, bed-covers, duvets, window seat cushions...
In these early Spring months, the weather can still be unpredictable, so much so it can be tempting to bed in at home with a good book instead.
Yet there are so many benefits to venturing out into the great outdoors; so much so it’s worth risking a few rain showers and blustery winds to discover them.
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Portishead/BS20!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 15,736 homes & businesses to ALL of Portishead/BS20 postcode area. We help over 700 small local clubs, groups, associations, schools and churches with FREE OF CHARGE advertising.
Please send us all your news, events and information. We can give you 100 words FREE OF CHARGE each month, plus you can upload a photo. Just fill in the form on the Community Notices page of our web site www.localreach.co.uk/community-notices
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If you’re the kind of person who struggles with those dark winter months, you might be feeling a bit blue by Spring. The perfect antidote then, is to get outside.
Whether it’s the scent of wildflowers and grass, a stunning vista across a carpet of fields, or simply the rush of endorphins as you triumphantly trek up a hill, being outdoors will make you feel fabulous.
Quite simply, we spend too long cloistered inside with our faces glued to screens. This is okay to an extent, but we are still primal creatures at heart and that maintaining that connection to nature can bring a myriad of benefits.
When we bond with the earth it can bring real sense of peace as it reminds us of how aweinspiring the natural and social world can be. It also helps us to remember that there are many things that are out of our control, but balance will always restore itself if we afford it the opportunity.
It’s
You may not realise it, but the repetition of modern living takes a significant toll on our bodies. The constant thrum of traffic, the polluted air and general stress of navigating other people can cause stress over time, and a monthly jaunt to the countryside, the seaside, a park, attraction, or just somewhere utterly different to the norm, can have massive benefits.
It’s a break from the noise, a chance to be alone with your thoughts or around people you love - it’s new sparks of inspiration and fresh air in your lungs; and if you’re really lucky, it could be a freshly poured pint or glass of wine or in a gorgeous countryside pub… because even your favourite local can get boring sometimes, right?
If solo exploring is not for you, get a gang together! Perhaps you’ve had a recent break-up - well joining a walking group is a wonderful way to heal (and maybe meet someone new!). It can also bring you together as a family, especially if you’ve got kids who could really do with time off their phones.
Getting outdoors can also be incredibly romantic for you and your partner, because those who stray together, stay together.
If you would like your business to present a professional image then Pure offices, Kestrel Court is perfect for you.
Whether you are looking for your first office, expanding, or need a regional office, we have offices of all sizes from one person to 20. For those looking for something less traditional, our flexible studios & workshops can be adapted to suit the needs of many different businesses.
Perfectly located just off the M5 it is easy to get to from all parts of the country and if you are coming from somewhere more local, it saves you the inconvenience of a long commute & sitting in traffic. Plus, there is free parking!
To take an office it is very quick and easy, just get in touch, we can discuss your requirements and see if we have something suitable and/or arrange a viewing. If you like what you see, which I‘m sure you will, we can have you in an office with broadband and phone all set up in a matter of days if needed! You are not tied into a long-term contract, and there is 24/7 access. Our thriving business community can help your business thrive, with opportunities for networking, free business workshops for Pure clients and social events.
The on-site management team will take care of all the facilities, so you can focus on running your business. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and aim to deal with any queries quickly and efficiently.
But don’t just take my word for it see what our clients say:
“We’ve had an office at Pure for nearly a year now. It’s our first office and I feel like we’ve really fallen on our feet. The office is great, looks really professional and clean! The perfect space to focus on work, or if you need to bring clients in to impress. Full with lots of innovate businesses, it’s been great to network.. The staff at Pure couldn’t do enough for you, nothing is too much trouble. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for an office!”
Check out our Google reviews online.
Run your business & we’ll take care of the rest.
Modern workspaces. Traditional offices from 1 person + flexible studio/workshop spaces. Quick & easy to move in, no long term commitment. High-speed broadband, 24/7 access, free parking, inclusive pricing. Also available to all meeting room hire. Call us to find out more or to arrange a viewing 01275 605074 | portishead@pureoffices.co.uk www.pureoffices.co.uk/portishead
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)
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.
Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions Ltd. Tel/Text/WhatsApp: 07973 536299 or email sales@e-cps.co.uk
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Gordano Civic Society’s final talk of the season will be on Monday 14th April, 7:30pm in Somerset Hall, The Precinct, Portishead when Peter Lander will talk about Birnbeck Pier, its history and future. Entrance £2 for members (£5 for visitors). Refreshments included. For further information please phone 01275 849200
The next talk will be on 8th September, but the Society will have a stall at the Summer Show at the end of July.
Our April meeting is on the 16th at Somerset Hall from 10:00am - 12noon. Admission is £3.00 which includes tea/ coffee and cake! Along with a free raffle. This month is our AGM and we have Rob How, Chief Operating Officer of the NHSRF speaking about the fellowship.
The annual subscription is due this month.
It would be lovely to have a good attendance for this meeting.
Portishead Senior Forum, Wednesday 16th April at the Folk Hall, Portishead.
We begin at 2:00pm with the 2025 AGM. As soon as we find out who will be in charge for the next year, we will do the raffle then a well-earned tea break. Once the Gingers and Custard Creams have gone, John Crockford Hawley, the new Mayor of Weston, will give one of his entertaining talks.
We finish at 4:00pm. Entry is free for members, £3 for visitors.
A representative of our charity for this year will attend our April Meeting. Mucoplysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of rare, inherited metabolic disorders that affect how the body breaks down complex carbohydrates.
The lovely little granddaughter of one of our members is an MPS sufferer, so this charity is dear to our hearts.
Please come and hear how the society supports families of children born with this condition. There will be the usual tea and lovely cakes.
Kenn Road Methodist Church, Wednesday 16th April at 2:30pm. All ladies are welcome.
Why not come along to Somerset Hall, Portishead on Wednesday 16th April and see French Touch Floristry Arnaud Metairie with his floral demonstration ‘Floral Fantasy’.
Arnaud is an award winning floral designer and stage demonstrator who is based in the Cotswolds.
Doors open at 7:00pm at Somerset Hall, Portishead. There will be a raffle at the end of the evening to win one of the floral displays. Visitors can pay on the door.
Contact Nancy on 07968348116.
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Portishead residents will have the chance to speak directly with their local councillors at a series of monthly drop-in sessions throughout the year. Whether you have questions, concerns, or ideas for the community, these informal meetings provide an opportunity to connect with your representatives and have your voice heard.
Sessions will take place in The Folk Hall, Portishead on the last Friday of each month from 3:00pm – 5:00pm (except December) on the following dates:
25 April | 30 May | 27 June | 25 July | 29 August | 26 September | 31 October | 28 November | 19 December
This is your chance to share your thoughts on local issues and help shape the future of Portishead. No appointment needed—just drop in!
Avon Wildlife Trust Portishead Local Group will have a talk on Friday 25th April at 7:30pm in the Folk Hall, High Street, Portishead BS20 6PR when Peter Bright will tell all about the life and habits of
glow worms. All are welcome. Entrance is £2 for all adults and £1 for children and students, which includes tea or coffee during the evening.
For further information please phone 01275 843160 or 07853 248476
Turn The Tide Portishead would like to thank everyone who has put money into their collection boxes over the past few months, raising over £125 to put towards new litter-picking equipment. The boxes are located in various bars and shops around the town and a great destination for your loose change or spare cash! Funded entirely by donations, Turn The Tide is a community group of volunteers dedicated to keeping Portishead tidy and reducing single-use plastic.
Our next Big Clean is 27th April, 10:30am - 11:30am, meeting outside The Royal Inn: www.turnthetideportishead/events
by simply replacing the doors and worktops
› Up to 50% less than a new fully fitted kitchen
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: 01934 832361 or 01275 562031 9.8/10
Friday 11th April 2025 | 10am to 1pm Penny Brohn UK, Pill, BS20 0HH
Child ticket £8 (adults go free!)
Find the eggs hidden in our beautiful gardens to solve the password and claim your chocolate treat.
Scan the QR code to get your tickets!
Booking is essential
All funds raised through this event will directly support those facing cancer across the UK.
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 Masonic lodge for Portishead Masons, Gordano Lodge, are holding a Third Degree ceremony on Monday 28th April, All freemasons will be welcomed, especially if you have moved into the area, or you are no longer a subscribing member.
Freemasonry is too good not to share. Do you know anything about Freemasonry? I mean really know? Please try asking! If you would like to more about this occasion or about Freemasonry, please contact Marshall on 07585 152570 or Gordano.Lodge@gmail.com, or take a look at our Facebook page ‘Gordano Lodge 6244’.
Are you recently bereaved but
This course can help! This seven-session course, gently guides bereaved people through the most common aspects of grief, enabling them to process the implications for themselves and discern next steps.
The course will run for seven Tuesday evenings (19:15 to 21:30), at Christchurch, Clevedon BS21 7LL, starting on 29th April.
To find out more, please email: bereavementsupport@christchurch-clevedon. org.uk or sign up via the Church Website.
Also, all are welcome at our monthly “Grieve Well Cafe” which occurs 10:00am to noon every 3rd Wednesday; a caring and understanding place to chat.
North Somerset Walk Fest coming this May!
online programme of all the wonderful walking opportunities available in North Somerset.
If you run a walking event and would like to include it in the programme, please visit: www. betterhealthns.co.uk/information/providers/
Wednesday 14th May, 9:30am - 3:00pm at Penny Brohn UK, Chapel Pill Lane, Pill, BS20 0HH.
Our Relax and Restore Wellbeing Day is for anyone affected by cancer. These days combine a range of gentle activities designed to nourish your body and mind. As well as recharging your batteries the day will be an opportunity to connect with others and learn some new tools to take home with you to support your health and wellbeing.
To book: pennybrohn.org.uk/our-approach/ services/wellbeing-days/#Relaxandrestore
To celebrate National Walking Month this May, join us for North Somerset Walk Fest 2025!
Keep an eye on our Better Health website (www. betterhealthns.co.uk/get-active/walking/ ) from mid-April when we will be sharing an
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.
Ship and Castle Theatre Company present a dramatic telling of the reign of Queen Mary 1st.
St Georges Church Hall, Priory Road, Easton-in-Gordano, BS20 0PA. Tuesday 20th to Friday 23rd May. 7:30pm curtain up. Tickets £12.
07305 714831, e-mail shipandcastleboxoffice@gmail.com
This is an amateur production.
Jubilee Day Care, Slade Road. For older people who would like company. Offering a weekly break from caring. Quizzes, board games, speakers, activities, refreshments and a hot lunch. Mondays, 10:00am - 2:30pm; cost £10. We offer transport within Portishead. Please contact Mike: 847857 for more information
One of our kitchen team has now ‘retired’might you be willing to come and help us serve refreshments/meals? (No cooking is involved!)
Want somewhere warm and free on a Monday
With free tea, coffee and cake, WiFi, charging points and board games, dominoes, puzzles, pre-school toys, conversation and more. Every Monday afternoon from 1:30pm to 4:00pm during the winter in the light and airy Hall next to Redcliffe Bay Methodist Church. Easy level access to the Hall from the car park at the front of the Church. Accessible toilet with baby changing facility. Redcliffe Bay Methodist Church Hall, Queens Road, Portishead BS20 8HT. Bus stop on Down Road just after Queens Road. Everyone welcome.
Volunteers run a Wednesday Night Clairvoyant Meeting, 7:30pm at Brampton Way Preschool Hall in Portishead, with a different Medium/ Mediums each week. A warm welcome to all. £5 cash at the door, net proceeds given to various charities. Details of who is coming each week can be found on Facebook under Portishead Spiritualist Church.
I can help with neck aches and pain, and other secondary issues such as headaches or nerve pains in the arm.
Muscle strains - Neck muscles work hard to support a heavy head balanced on a narrow spine. “Cricked” necks are not uncommon, and sometimes don’t just resolve on their own. Getting on top of this sooner can avoid developing an annoying headache.
Arthritic neck pain - You might expect arthritis to develop gradually but sometimes symptoms appear suddenly, often after an injury. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are different but I can help with both.
Ergonomic Issues - If your lifestyle requires you to work in an uncomfortable position you might start to feel it in the neck. Your neck can absorb a multitude of ergonomic sins such as poor posture and having spent years as an accountant I can vouch that this is often the case.
For more information on neck pain and all the issues indicated on the advert below please follow the blogs on: www.barnesstringer.co.uk
Osteopathic and Integrated Health
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Postural problems
• Disc injury
• Trapped nerve
• Sciatica
• Headache and migraine
• Hip, knee and ankle pain
• Frozen shoulder
• Tennis elbow
• Post-op joint rehab
• Sports injuries
Barnes Stringer M.Ost 07584 570348
info@barnesstringer.co.uk www.barnesstringer.co.uk @barnesstringerosteopath
@_barnesstringerosteopath
The Lighthouse Café at St. Nicholas Church, Nore Road, Portishead is held every Thursday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Tea, coffee and home made cakes are available. A place to meet up with friends or a listening ear is available if you come alone. All proceeds are given to local good causes. For more information contact 01275 846230 or e-mail cafe@portisheadparish.co.uk
All Welcome at Christchurch Pill Dementia Friendly Café
Join us for tea, coffee, cake and chat at the Christchurch Pill Dementia friendly café on the second and fourth Thursday of the month, 2:00pm – 4:00pm. For people living with dementia and their carers or anyone who would like some cake and company. No need to book, just drop in. No charge, donations welcome. Christchurch, 1 Church Place, Pill BS20 0AE. Contact Mary Thomas 07527 517665 or Christina Taylor 07765 971948 for more information.
Thursdays, 6:30pm - 7:30pm at North Weston village hall, £7.50 per class.
Classes focus on coordinating breath and movement and encourage people to find what works for them and to listen to their bodies rather than what their minds want their bodies to do! Classes aim to build strength and balance in order to improve overall mobility and stability. My aim is to support people to feel empowered and confident in their bodies.
Free play sessions every Saturday, everyone welcome!!
ParkPlay is free community play, every Saturday, for everyone. Make friends, have fun, get moving!
10:00am – Merlin Park Playground, Redcliff Bay, Portishead, BS20 8RW.
Look out for the ParkPlay flag, we’ll be there – rain or shine. If you can, please register before you
come along: park-play.com/register/ (you only need to this once)
Find out more about ParkPlay here: www.betterhealthns.co.uk/information/parkplay/
Enjoy Church based in Portishead is a vibrant church reaching Portishead, Clevedon and the surrounding areas. It has a city feel church in a rural location.
You can expect coffee, cake, contemporary worship and a message that will encourage you on your journey. There is also a relevant, fun programme for children and young people to engage with.
Enjoy Church meets every Sunday at Somerset Hall at 10:30am with small groups / activities happening throughout the week.
Please visit www.enjoychurch.co.uk for more details.
Free and friendly Health Walks available in your area!
30 to 60 minute Health Walks are available in Churchill and Cheddar, Clevedon, Congresbury, Long Ashton, Nailsea, Portishead, Westonsuper-Mare, 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/get-active/walking/
Or contact us at: getactive@n-somerset.gov.uk / 01275 882 730.
We’re a friendly group aged 55+, looking for new members! Our meals are at Bristol 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 Bristol Eating Out Group 2.0. Then you can read the ‘About’ page, view events on our calendar –usually 2 meals each month - and apply to join. We look forward to meeting you!
A simple covered heap is all you need to create your own compost. However, a compost bin does reduce heat and water loss.
Create a simple structure using timber posts and chicken wire or pallet slats, lining the inside and top with cardboard. Turn contents regularly.
Alternatively, a ‘Dalek’ type bin is effective where space and time is tight. This can be left to compost slowly without turning, with a hatch at the base to remove compost for use. You can purchase a bin from North Somerset Council for £10.
Improving Ageing in North Somerset 5 year project funded by Big Lottery delivered by VANS working with people over 65 in North Somerset.
Done: Hosting Breaking Barriers in Worle, 1st Portishead Community Conversation “Good, Bad and Ugly” of living in Portishead. Congresbury Pop Up, hosted by Congras.
Doing: A North Somerset Iftar (invitation only). 2nd Portishead Community Conversation themes for future meetings. Wrington Pop Up hosted Mother Hen café. Recruiting volunteers for Good Neighbours Scheme in rural villages in North Somerset. 1st Living Without Children Meeting WSM.
Contact 01934 416486 / IANS@vansmail.org.uk
Permitted Development Legislation is Changing. All Aspects of Planning Undertaken
To Include: Supplying Floor Plans | Elevation Plans
Site Plans | Building Regulations Application Forms and Planning Advice
For A Free Quotation Call Chris on 07771 922157 or email chulance@btconnect.com
I provide a friendly and reliable full-time dog walking/sitting service.
I adore dogs and have been walking dogs for many years, either individually, or in a group. I also provide a sitting service, spending time at home with your dog or overnight stays if required
For more info please call Sarah on: 07455 737037 @chums_sitting_dogwalking
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*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
Contact
