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Spring Flower Show
Clevedon Gardeners’ Club 65th Spring Flower Show, Saturday 22nd February at the Princes Hall Community Centre, Princes Road BS21 7SZ, 1:00pm to 4.15pm. Do come and join us for a taste of Spring.
The Building Stones of Clifton & Clevedon, Thursday 27th February
A talk by professor Mike Benton, jointly organised by Clevedon Civic Society and Clevedon & District Archaeological Society, 7:30pm on Thursday 27th February at St Andrews Church Centre BS21 7UE. Visitors £3.
Live Band - Mickey Finn
Mickey Finn is coming to Pill Memorial Club on Saturday 1st March.
Playing hit songs from The Beatles, Oasis, ELO, Robbie Williams, Queen, Elvis, Rod Stewart, The Eagles, Van Morrison, T Rex and many more.
Doors open 7:30pm.
Tickets available from the club bar or via our website £5 members, £8 non-members.
www.pillmemorialclub.co.uk
Make a Difference with Make Your Will Week 2025!
Take advantage of free will making services between 3rd - 7th March 2025 in support of Weston Hospicecare.
Local solicitors will generously give their services and time for free in exchange for a suggested donation of £150 for a single will and £225 for a mirror will to Weston Hospicecare.
Amazingly, 1 in 5 of patients’ care is funded because someone kindly remembered Weston Hospicecare in their Will.
Contact the solicitors directly to enquire about booking your appointment today:
Early Spring Gardening Jobs in March
The days are getting longer, and gardens are springing to life making it a delight to get in our gardens. Here are some early spring gardening jobs this March
March is a lovely month. It can also be a challenging one for the gardener with winter often reluctant to release us from her grip. The sun is getting stronger and plants, insects, birds and small mammals are busying themselves for the longer, warmer days to come as are some unwanted pests.
Mow your lawn – maybe...
There is nothing like the smell of a newly mown lawn to make you think of spring and with our milder winters March may well be the time that you need to give your lawn the first mow of the year, but only if the weather is dry and has been dry for a little while or you could cause damage. And if you have any dandelions on your lawn, consider leaving them as they will provide vital food source for insects.
The vegetable plot
The early potatoes that you have been chitting need to planted, as do onion or shallot sets. As the potatoes sprout be watchful of potential frosts and hoe up and cover accordingly. If the forecast is mild think about sowing broad beans, peas, carrots and beetroot. Spinach and summer cabbage and cauliflower can also be sown outdoors along with some lettuces.
Flower borders
March is the perfect time to plant summer flowering bulbs such as gladioli and lilies. Because the weather in March can be variable consider sowing summer flowering annuals such as nicotiana, petunias, marigolds and salvias in the greenhouse or cold frame.
Hardy annuals such as stocks, sunflowers and poppies are by their very nature less affected by variable temperature and weather conditions and if you have a sunny area in your garden should grow well.
Pest prevention
March is the time when garden pests surge. And
although some pests have a vital role to play in gardens, we are all aware that as well as our plants springing to life in March our friend the slug is also feeling the urge to fill his tummy on our newly planted seedlings. I favour opting for natural pest control as slug pellets can have a wider impact than just killing the pests you are trying to deter and have a negative effect on wildlife.
There are many natural ways to try and deter slugs. Slugs do not like to eat all plants including foxgloves, lavender and roses. They also do not seem too keen on my particular favourite, cosmos. But as slugs do love some plants perhaps consider placing a barrier around tender plants. You can buy slug barriers at nurseries or garden centres, or you could try eggshells or sharp grit. You could also try and trap slugs with beer traps, small dishes sunk into the ground filled with beer – I find they really like real ale! Finally, if you have the time you could embark on a slug hunt each night after dark!
By Rob Bullock
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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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Celebrate World Hearing Day with Meadows & Wood!
A warm welcome from Toby, Claire, Emma, Sam, and, of course, Charlie the dog, at Meadows & Wood Hearing Care Specialists.
Have you ever paused to appreciate the everyday sounds around you — the birds singing, laughter with loved ones, or music playing softly? Our hearing is a very precious gift, yet it’s easy to take it for granted.
That’s why every year, on March 3rd, we celebrate World Hearing Day, an initiative led by the World Health Organisation, to raise awareness about hearing loss and remind us of the importance of protecting our hearing. While many of us regularly visit doctors, opticians, and dentists, hearing check-ups are often overlooked. But these are essential in detecting hearing loss early and preventing further issues.
Our noisy world isn’t always kind to our ears. From bustling cities, loud cinemas, and lively cafes, it’s easy for our ears to suffer damage over time from exposure to loud sounds. Taking small steps, like using ear protection and being mindful of volume levels, can go a long way in protecting our hearing.
Sometimes, hearing aids might be needed — which over the years, have had huge advancements to improve your hearing experience. Modern hearing aids now offer cutting-edge features such as Bluetooth connectivity, artificial intelligence, and speech enhancement technology, and are available in various sizes and colourways.
World Hearing Day is the perfect reminder to check in on your hearing and that of your loved ones. We invite you to visit any of our North Somerset clinics for a free hearing check-up and a friendly chat with our expert Audiologists. Contact us using the details below.
The Hammond Brothers of East Clevedon - folk song collectors extraordinaire
Gordano Civic Society on Monday 10th March at 7:30pm in Somerset Hall, The Precinct, Portishead will have The Hotwells Howlers using song, words and images, give the history of The Hammond Brothers of East Clevedon - folk song collectors extraordinaire.
Entrance £2 for members (£5 for visitors). Refreshments included. For further information please phone 01275 849200
Bringing Technology and Community Together in Portishead!
Join us at our next Tea & Tech 2025 session on Wednesday 12th March 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.
Cruse Bereavement Support in Portishead area during March
If you have been bereaved you will receive a friendly welcome on our guided Cruse “Walk and Talk” Thursday 13th March at 10:00am. Lasting one hour it is followed if wished by refreshments in Waitrose. If joining for first time please email crusebristol@gmail.com with contact details. Our Walk leader will be in touch.
Thursday 27th March between 10:00am and 12 noon you will receive support from our trained Cruse Cereavement volunteers at our monthly Cruse Drop in, Methodist Hub, Portishead High St. Refreshments available from our friendly hospitality team.
Are You Fed Up With Clutter?
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.
Psychic & Holistic Fayre
Portishead Rainbow Spirit Friends, March 15th, 10:30am - 4:00pm at Somerset Hall, Portishead. Free Entry/ Disabled Access.
Our chosen charity we will be helping to support is GWAAC.
Clevedon Music Club hosts star students from Cardiff
Outstanding music students from the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama bring an exciting programme of solos and ensembles at 7:30pm on Tuesday 18th March to the Teignmouth Room, Clevedon Community Centre BS21 7SZ. Admission £12 on the door. Prebooking strongly advised as space is limited. For details of programme or booking information call 01275 875262 or email andrea.argent@hotmail. co.uk
Portbury WI takes a look back
Newer members have recently had a chance to learn more about the WI, including its history, campaigning and opportunities offered for social activities and education.
At the March meeting we will be learning about Early Modern History with Mark Hailwood. We will also be sharing some of our Scrapbooks, made over the last 30+ years, detailing the more recent history of Portbury Village and the activities of Portbury WI.
Tuesday 18th March at 7:30pm, Portbury Village Hall (side door).
For more information contact Helen Francis on 07503 134817
Gordano NHSRF
Our March meeting is on the 19th at Somerset Hall from 10:00am - 12 noon. Admission £3.00 which includes tea/coffee, biscuits and a free raffle.
The speaker this month is Pam Sayer who will be talking about the time she spent volunteering in a refugee camp in Lesbos.
All retired persons who worked in the NHS and Social Care Sector are welcome.
Portishead Senior Forum. Folk Hall. Appliances of
a Bygone Age
Portishead Senior Forum, Wednesday 19th March at the Folk Hall, Portishead.
We begin at 2:00pm with a short talk by Nick Moxon of the Methodist Church and the Beacon Hub.
After tea break, Peter Lamb takes us down memory lane with the early kitchen and household appliances our mothers and grandmas used.
We finish our cleaning and dusting at 4:00pm. Entry is free for members, £3 for visitors.
Flash Harry are coming to Pill Memorial
Club
Pill Memorial Club welcome Flash Harry, celebrating St Patrick’s Day.
Flash Harry are masters of their craft. Their music puts a smile on your face, sweat on your brow and stomp in your feet.
Saturday 22nd March, 7:30pm onwards.
Tickets available from the bar or our websitewww.pillmemorialclub.co.uk
Members £5, non-members £8.
Gordano Freemason’s Lodge Meeting
The Masonic lodge for Portishead Masons, Gordano Lodge, are holding a Third Degree ceremony on Monday 24th March. All freemasons will be welcomed, especially if you have moved into the area, or you are no longer a subscribing member.
Freemasons are focused on building themselves as people of integrity, and membership provides the structure to help achieve that goal.
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’.
OvenGleamers Recipe of The Month - Meringue Kisses
With Mother’s Day coming up, we’ve got a delicious recipe for you this month that are perfect to treat the ones you love.
Ingredients (serves four)
3 large egg whites
About 200g caster sugar
Pink food colouring
50g white chocolate, chopped
For the filling:
300ml double cream
1tbsp icing sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
About 4tbsp cherry jam
To serve: 8 fresh ripe cherries
Method
1: Preheat the oven to 110C. Drawing freehand or using a 6.5cm heart-shaped cutter as a template, draw eight hearts on to two sheets of baking parchment. Turn them over and lay on to two baking sheets. Don’t grease the paper as meringue will be used to secure the corners. Weigh a spotlessly clean bowl, then weigh the egg whites in it. Calculate their weight, double it and weigh that quantity of caster sugar into a separate bowl.
2: Whisk the egg whites until they stand in soft peaks and the fluffy mixture doesn’t slip around in the bowl. You should be able to turn it upside down over your head without the mixture falling out.
Whisk in the sugar, a tablespoon at a time, making sure each spoonful dissolves before adding the next. Dip a cocktail stick into the food colouring and add it to the meringue until you reach the depth of colour you want. Dot a little of the meringue under the corners of each piece of parchment to secure it to the baking sheet.
3: Spoon the rest of the meringue into a piping bag with a 1cm round nozzle and pipe inside the heart templates. Bake for about 1.5 hours, until they come away easily from the paper. Leave to cool in the oven.
4: Set a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Melt the white chocolate in the bowl, then spoon it over the base of each meringue and leave to set. Whip the cream and icing sugar in a bowl until thick and glossy. Swirl in the cherry jam. Take two meringue hearts and sandwich them together with the sweet jam cream. Serve dusted with a little extra icing sugar and a couple of ripe cherries.
Meringue is renowned for being difficult to make, and we would love to see a great selection of success and fail photos! If you can, please post a photo on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/OvenGleamersBristol
Some tips for the month:
1. Still like a landline phone but your provider tells you that if you change package, the landline will be lost? Several providers such as Plusnet are trying to phase out the landline phone, but it is worth noting that may providers do still offer landlines.
If you still would like a landline style phone, I would recommend moving provider for phone line and broadband. For example: Plusnet users can move to EE (BT have rebranded), Truespeed, Virgin or Gigaclear (to name but a few).
We offer a home visit service whereby we can navigate this process with you.
2. If you get a message on the screen telling you to ring a phone number because you have a virus – it is a scam and they will offer to “clean” your computer for £600!! Do not allow this, and if you have been caught – ring your bank and advise there has been fraud and ask for a refund!!
3. Not computer related, but regarding Energy Bills. I would recommend asking your energy provider to upgrade your home to a Smart Meter, if it hasn’t got one already, as you will get access to some much cheaper packages. Once you have a smart meter – consider using a service called “Hugo Energy Pro” – this uses AI to scan your energy usage and it recommends a cheaper package. We recently switched, which unlocked some big savings. Smart Meters do not use your Wi-Fi but have a bespoke radio system to transmit your readings every 30 minutes to the supplier.
4. For those of you on Windows 10 or earlier – please do consider upgrading or replacing your equipment onto Windows 11. A computer can only be at its most secure, if the operating system is up to date. If you need help, we both supply and setup equipment to make the whole process straightforward, plus we offer a handy guide to help. We can also provide ongoing support as and when needed.
5. If you have important data on your computer such as documents or photos, please consider a backup system – either cloud based and/or an external USB device is recommended.
Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions Ltd. sales@e-cps.co.ukor phone/text/WhatsApp 07973 536299
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
We have mobile engineers in your area or with your permission we can access your computer remotely. Engineer: 07973 536299 Office: 01275 849622
Crossword
Word Search
Across
1 Precious metal (4)
3 Murder of a king (8)
7 Arrange, systemise (8)
9 Audacious, foolhardy (4)
10 Reverse, nullify (6)
11 XI (6)
13 Gasps for air (5)
15 Facial hair (5)
18 Painting on wet plaster (6)
21 Jane Torville was an ice ______ (6)
22 Carcass (4)
23 A catholic prayer (4,4)
25 Type of concertina (8)
26 Surrounded by (4)
Down
1 Earth, land (6)
2 Move slowly, delay (3)
3 _______ of the Lost Ark (film) (7)
4 Large, loud waterbirds (5)
5 Arc (5)
6 Balloon, bloat (7)
8 Another time, repeated (5)
12 Tell an untruth (3)
13 Intention (7)
14 Spasm, jerk (3)
15 Bulwark, stronghold (7)
16 Sudden fear (5)
17 Appealed to a divine being (6)
19 Authorisation (3-2)
20 Earthy yellow/brown pigment (5)
24 Goal, aspiration (3)
Puzzle Solutions
Plants of the Wider Gordano Valley
Avon Wildlife Trust Portishead local group will have a meeting on Friday 28th March at 7:30pm in the Folk Hall, 95 High Street, Portishead, BS20 6PR when Rupert Higgins will take a look at some of the many plant species supported by the wide range of special habitats of the Gordano Valley, which include fen meadows and associated ditches, limestone grasslands and ancient woodlands.
Entrance is £2 for all adults and £1 for children and students, which includes tea or coffee during the evening.
For further information phone 01275 843160.
Join Turn The Tide Portishead’s March Big Clean:
30th March
Do you fancy playing your part in keeping Portishead clean and tidy? If so, why not join a community litter-pick with Turn The Tide Portishead? Our next Big Clean is on 30th March 10:30am - 11:30am, meeting outside Pets At Home. All are welcome - please wear gloves and
bring a bag for the litter you collect. Further details: turnthetideportishead.co.uk/events/ and www. facebook.com/TTTPortisheadd
North Somerset Philharmonia comes to Portishead for 30th anniversary concert!
The 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 (soloist Ana England) and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.
Tickets available from our website 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.
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Ready to Boost Your Energy and Lose Weight?
Let’s Get Started!
Did you know that the right diet can completely transform your energy levels, mood, weight, and even gut health? Many women find themselves feeling drained, bloated, and out of balance after entering their 30s — and it’s no surprise. With so much conflicting information about what your body truly needs, it’s easy to feel lost. But the good news is, with the right guidance, you can regain control and start feeling like yourself again.
For women aged 35–60, these challenges often become more complex due to hormonal changes and shifts in metabolism. That’s why working with a specialist is so important. As a nutritionist, I focus exclusively on this stage of life because it’s when women need tailored advice the most. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. Instead, you need a plan designed for your unique needs and lifestyle to create meaningful, lasting changes.
Take the first step today and feel the difference! WhatsApp me now on 07495366008 to claim your FREE 8-week weight loss plan and start your journey to better health.
Don’t wait — your transformation begins here!
“Since working with Will, my physical and mental health has drastically changed. His precise meal plans tailored exactly for me have really helped in my progression to gain muscle and lose fat. As a vegetarian, finding meals that contain enough protein for muscle gain can be difficult, with the help of the meal plans being specific to my diet I am now reaching my goals.” - Eloise
“I am very pleased with my results so far following Will’s training and diet plan, as a vegetarian getting the right nutrition can be hard and Will made sure to create a diet plan high in protein and with all the right nutrients for the best results.”- Annabelle
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
Live Music - ABBA Tribute Band - Kiss The Teacher
Join us at Pill Memorial Club on Saturday 12th April as we host Kiss The Teacher- ABBA Tribute Band (award winners tribute act of the year 2022). A high energy performance from four dedicated performers. They will perform all of ABBA’s greatest and most memorable hits. Tickets available to purchase now from the club bar or online via our website. Doors open 7:30pm. Members £10, non-members £15. www.pillmemorialclub.co.uk
Are you recently bereaved but noone seems to get it?
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.
WINTER WARMER! 1stJan-31March2025
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 10am to noon every 3rd Wednesday; a caring and understanding place to chat.
1st Ashcombe (Weston-super-Mare) Scout Group Family Model Railway Show
Sunday 18th May, 10:30am – 3:30pm. Come along and see various working railway model displays of various gauges at our Family Model Railway Show venue: Kewstoke ViIlage Hall,Crookes Lane. BS22 9XJ. Car parking available
1st Ashcombe (W-s-M) Scout Group will provide Teas, Coffee and light refreshments at reasonable prices.
All profits will go to support 1st Ashcombe (Westonsuper-Mare) Scout Group provide skills for life and activities and camping for our youth members. Admission: Adults £5.00, Children free. Sorry No unaccompanied children. Only assistance dogs admitted.
Inquiries to Duncanbiddulph@gmail.com
Receive £600offwith yourbathroom purchase.
• DFG & SSAFA Grant work undertaken • Helping people regain independence since 1999
Come and be wowed by the beautiful gardens of Tickenham
On Sunday 13th July from 11:00am to 4:00pm, for £5, come and visit the 8 stunning gardens of Tickenham. Tickets available at the parking site and refreshments available at the village hall: cream teas, ploughman’s lunches, cakes, tea, coffee and squash.
For those short of time a mini bus will take you around but most gardens are within walking distance.
Come and join us. All proceeds to local good causes.
New Nature Walks to Boost Wellbeing in North Somerset
Join our FREE monthly guided nature walks in North Somerset, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund. These gentle walks include mindfulness, group reflections, and time in nature to support wellbeing.
Weston Woods (1st Monday)
Portbury Wharf (2nd Monday)
Winscombe & Sandford Award Land (3rd Monday)
3:00pm – 4:30pm
Sign Up: www.muditasalus.co.uk/connect3
Clairvoyant Evenings
This small group of volunteers, which have been going for over 40 years donating net profits to charities, have a Clairvoyant Evening 7:30pm through to 9:00pm each Wednesday at Brampton Way Preschool Hall, Brampton Way, Portishead, with a different Medium/Mediums each week. £5 cash at the door.
Information of who is coming each week can be found on our Facebook page under Portishead Spiritualist Church. Open to all.
Focus on Back Pain
Lower back pain is a leading complaint which could be caused by: mild disc injuries; joint irritation; ligament sprains; muscle strains; early osteoarthritic changes .
Sciatica is often misunderstood, only affecting the area supplied by the sciatic nerve: from the lower back, into the buttock, thigh, calf, and foot. Symptoms of the irritated nerve include: a sharp, shooting pain; pins and needles; numbness.
Causes of Sciatica: Synonymous with a herniated disc but not always the cause discs are made of cartilage, with a central jelly-like substance which can bulge causing pain.
Another common cause is a deep tense muscle in the buttock: piriformis, which might directly irritate the nerve.
Managing pain: Early treatment is better. Expect mobilising techniques involving gentle stretches, massage, or manipulation (aka “clicking”) to treat the root cause calm the nerve down or lengthen the muscle.
You can expect to leave clinic with a good understanding of your diagnosis and plan of action.
For more information please follow the blogs on www.barnesstringer.co.uk
The Wonders of Doctor Bent is an engaging and entertaining novel. Readers who enjoy the way in which crime writers such as John Harvey and David Belbin have explored the seamier side of the city of Nottingham will very much appreciate Paul Crawford’s work, as will readers who enjoy the social observations of a novelist like Stanley Middleton.
The Wonders of Doctor Bent begins like a whodunnit, but soon starts exploring more profound themes about family, companionship, revenge, incarceration, and mental health. Paul Crawford has created two memorable central characters, and draws on his own real-life experience of health humanities and creative practice to draw us into his vividly realised version of life in the contemporary English midlands.
By James Moran, Professor of Modern English Literature and Drama
Look Both Ways
By Jason Reynolds
This a masterfully crafted book set in an anonymous city in the US, which explores the interconnected lives of children as they navigate their journeys home from school across ten city
blocks. The book is divided into ten chapters, each focusing on a different set of characters with their own challenges, joys, and discoveries.
From a boy struggling to care for his sick mother while managing school, to a girl leading a double life of mischief and kindness, all the stories stand alone, yet they are subtly linked. Reynolds captures the nuances of friendship, family, and resilience beautifully. His use of humour, keen observation, and lyrical prose brings makes the ordinary feel extraordinary. Themes such as bullying, grief, first love, and bravery are handled with sensitivity and a deep understanding of childhood.
The narrative celebrates diversity, both in terms of the characters’ backgrounds and the ways they perceive the world. Reynolds uses each story to highlight universal truths about growing up while respecting the unique experiences of each character. Books aimed at the 12-15 agegroup can be notoriously downbeat, so it is much appreciated that Reynolds balances more poignant scenes with laugh-out-loud funny moments.
While the book’s structure may initially seem fragmented, it ultimately reinforces the central theme: that everyone has their own story, but we are all connected.
By Tash Donovan
Fancy an evening with one foot in the past?
Fascinated by what happened centuries ago in Clevedon, North Somerset and beyond? Enjoy TV programmes like Time Team and Digging for Britain? Join us for monthly evening talks, summer day trips, or perhaps our annual study tour.
We meet on the last Thursday of every winter month (September to March except December) at St Andrews Church Centre, Old Church Road, Clevedon at 7:30pm. All our speakers are experts in their fields - mostly professional archaeologists.
Popping along will cost you a mere £3 or £15 for the whole of next year!
Bingeing, starving? There is a solution... Overeaters
Anonymous
Do you have a problem with food? Do you feel desperate with no where to turn? Try these questions:
- Do I go on eating binges?
- Do I sometimes eat until stuffed or even feel sick?
- Do I severely restrict my food intake to control my weight?
- Do I fantasise about how much better life would be if I were a different size or weight?
Free weekly support group, Saturday, 10:30am.
Email oasaturdayWsM@gmail.com to find out more.
oagb.org.uk
Enjoy Church - a place for Community
Enjoy Church based in Portishead, is a vibrant community church reaching Portishead, Clevedon, Nailsea, Weston-super-mare and the surrounding areas.
You can expect coffee & cake on arrival, followed by a time of worship, and an inspirational message that will encourage you on life’s journey. There’s also a fun filled programme for our children to engage with too.
Enjoy Church meets each Sunday at Somerset Hall at 10:30am. Groups also meet in homes during
the week, with youth and toddlers meeting weekly at Avon Way Hall.
Please visit www.enjoychurch.co.uk for more details.
Do enjoy Bristol restaurants and making new friends?
We’re a friendly group aged 55 plus, and need new members. All our tables are for maximum 6 people, so everyone can talk to everyone else, and get to know each other. The group is managed on-line so members must be computer literate.
To find out more, join Meetup.com or Log in, then search for Bristol Eating Out Group 2.0. Then read our group’s ‘About’ page, view the events currently on our calendar – usually 2 meals each month, then apply to join – we look forward to meeting you!
Nailsea Shedders’ Exciting New Venture
Following on from the recent coverage of our Charity’s activities in LocalReach, we had a great response to our recent Arts and Craft Courses.
One exciting new venture, from 4th February, Joe Fordham who now runs John Brown’s Hardware Shop on behalf of Mr John Brown himself, became a Nailsea Shedders Drop off collection point.
Customers can drop off small portable items for repair into their shop, Shedders will collect them from John Brown’s, liaise with the items owner and make appropriate arrangements for their direct return to the owner.
We believe we are the first in the Country to put such arrangements in place.
Other similar pilot drop off projects we’re developing, are in Portishead and Clevedonmore news to follow.
We have also just completed our 1000th repair! Pictured is Mrs Ashby and her grandfather’s repaired sieve.
DOG WALKERS
PROFESSIONAL DOG WALKER
I provide a friendly and reliable full-time dog walking/sitting service.
BOILERS
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
@chums_sitting_dogwalking
DOORS
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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.”
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 finished job.
