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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
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Shepton Mallet/BA4!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 8,988 homes & businesses to ALL of Shepton Mallet/BA4 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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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
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. Bath based loft ladder installer, Access4Lofts, whose slogan is ‘Creating Space The Easy Way’ can change all that, often in less than a day.
Access4Lofts Bath is owned by Rash and Ollie. Much of the work they carry out is for growing families; “We know how crucial storage space can be for large families” says Rash. “We also find that a large percentage of our clients are retired people looking for the safest access to their loft available.”
Ollie 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.”
Some homeowners, who perhaps inherited an old loft ladder, may want to consider an upgrade. In many homes the loft hatch and ladder are out of date compared to what’s on offer now. “The new ladders are spring-assisted and lighter so they’re much easier to use” he says, “the ladders can also come with a safety handrail, and there is an option of wide-tread wooden steps. There’s really no need for anyone to be struggling in and out of the loft anymore.”
Freeing up a room currently clogged with clutter can save a lot of trouble and expense, as Rash 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.”
Access4Lofts is an approved Which? Trusted Trader which means they have been assessed by Which?, and passed their stringent checks. For added confidence, Access4Lofts has full public liability insurance, and all ladders and work carried out comes with a Lifetime Guarantee.
Call Rash & Ollie now to book a free survey and quotation on 01225 956 375, or visit www.Access4Lofts.co.uk/Bath.
You can also find them on Facebook as Access4Lofts Bath
Small and large screen entertainment this March
With returning drama favourites and plenty of world class sport to entertain viewers, March is a great month for TV, and there are some brilliant cinema releases
In many households the month of March is dominated by world class sport, premier league football, boxing, rugby and cricket, not to mention the culmination of the winter sports season, but there is some serious drama returning to the small screens.
My March TV highlights
Unforgotten Season 6 ITV1
Chris Lang’s eagerly awaited cold case masterpiece returns this spring after 2023’s Season 5 gave the drama quite a different feel. Many feel that seasons 1-5 of Unforgotten are probably some of the best British tv drama ever created but the end of season 4 saw Nicola Walker’s character leave the show and new characters introduced. The unfolding relationship between Sunny, Sanjeev Bhashar, and new DCI Jessie, Sinead Keenan and some challenging and disturbing new storylines promise to maintain the high standard.
The Studio, Season 1 Apple TV
Set to rapidly become a comedy classic Seth Rogan creates and heads up The Studio as Matt Remick the newly appointed head of Continental
Studios a man desperate for celebrity approval! Remick and his team have to get creative to maintain the relevance of movies. Home Alone’s brilliant Catherine O’Hara also stars.
IPL 2025 Sky Sports & Now TV
Armchair sports fans are eagerly awaiting Friday 14th March and the return of the razzmatazz of the Indian Premier League. Although the legendary bowler James Anderson did not get selected in this year’s auction the Indian Premier League Cricket tournament 2025 is bound to once again bring the subcontinent’s infectious passion for the game to the eyes of the world. With plenty of familiar international faces, and exciting new talent the IPL is the place where we get to see cricket’s future unfold.
My cinema highlights
Twiggy 7th March
Sadie Frost’s lovingly created cinematic documentary about the life of this British icon is a real trip down memory lane but reminds the audience that former model Twiggy, real name Lesley Lawson, is more than just a face – actually acclaimed as the face of 1966 – but a woman who rose from humble working-class origins to become a global style icon and an accomplished actress and performer.
Marching Power 7th March
A hard-hitting laugh out loud British movie. When middle-aged football hooligan Jack Jones, played by the excellent Danny Dyer, is arrested for possession of drugs he has six weeks to turn a lifetime of violence, bad judgement and terrible behaviour around and six weeks to repair his marriage. Very violent but at times poignant and hilarious.
Disney’s Snow White 21st March
Inextricably part of Disney’s cinematic history Marc Webb’s musical fantasy is a live-action reimagining of the Brothers Grimm fairy tale and is released almost ninety years after the animated Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The film is bound to appeal to a new generation of movie goers and promises to put a new spin on the classic.
By Rob Bullock
New Choir starting 27th February in Glastonbury - Glastonbury Sings Musicals
A choir for people who enjoy songs from the musicals. Led by Polly Carroll.
Thursdays 10:00am - 11:30am starting 27th
February in St Mary’s Church Hall, Magdalene Street, Glastonbury. No auditions and no need to read music.
£10 per session.
Enquiries: glastonburysings@gmail.com
Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch AGM, Monday 3rd March
The RAFA-MSB Annual General Meeting is on Monday 3rd March at 11:00am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS with reports on 2024 activities, a review of 2024 performance, a brief on 2025 Branch Programme and optional Lunch & Drinks from the Club Menu & Bar.
RAFA-MSB covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA Members, Current & Ex-RAF Personnel & Reserves, Current & Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of the RAF Family & Members of the public that support RAFA aims & purpose welcome.
Contact Secretary raf.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01456 224057
RNLI Winscombe & District Branch AGM – Thursday 6th March
The RNLI Winscombe & District Branch AGM is on Thursday 6th March at 2:30pm in Winscombe; contact the Branch Secretary mary.wallace@hotmail.co.uk for full information about the venue. This will be a formal AGM with reports on 2024 activities by the Chairman and Committee members and a review of 2024 performance. The Secretary will present the latest update of the 2025 Branch Programme.
For more details contact the Secretary as indicated above.
Heritage Steam Railway near Shepton Mallet
Running Steam Engines again after winter break from 8th March at Cranmore Station. Volunteer day on 9th March come along and see what we can offer all welcome. Cafe open as well.
Train rides from £15.00 per adult and ride all day long, bring the dog as well for free.
Support our Heritage via the East Somerset Railway Charity.
The Gardens of Great Dixter: Gardening as an Art Form
The Arts Society Mid Somerset Lecture by Fergus Garrett, Head Gardener at Great Dixter, the famous Christopher Lloyd designed garden in East Sussex.
Coffee from 10:15am. Members free, visitors £7. www.theartssocietymidsomerset.org.uk
Save the Planet… How to care for your tree
Trees are the lungs of our planet, breathing in carbon dioxide and breathing out pure, clean oxygen for us to breathe!
It is often said that trees are humanity’s greatest ally in the fight against Climate Change…
But they need care, understanding and support. Every new tree is a gift to our planet. The planet needs trees!
You want to plant a tree? Here we go.
As you peruse the garden centre for your beautiful new tree, remember this is only the beginning of a long friendship.
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Shepton Mallet/BA4!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 8,988 homes & businesses to ALL of Shepton Mallet/BA4 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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Firstly, choose the right tree to settle in your garden, check what it likes to grow well, be it sun or shade or certain soils.
Next, dig a hole, about 3 times the width of the tree root ball, but NO DEEPER than the root ball is already. If the roots circle around, then gently loosen just a few external roots to encourage them to grow out rather than round.
New thinking advises not to put compost in the planting hole. If the soil adjacent to the tree is too rich, the roots will stay there, we want them to grow outwards.
Gently place your tree into the centre of the hole and fill in using the soil you removed to make the hole, firming the soil as you work. Take care of those tiny surface roots, they are vital. At the base of a tree trunk is an area that flares outwards, avoid covering this part of the trunk, this area must be above ground. Place stakes carefully outside the root ball and hammer in firmly. Never, go through the root ball!
Before you mulch, water thoroughly to ensure the soil settles around the roots, then cover at least one metre square over the root area with bark chippings or even leaves, to a depth of about 4” or 10 cm. This will deter weeds and maintain moisture levels. Remove grass and weeds first, they will compete for water. A good mulch cover will increase water availability by around 25%. Keep mulch away from the trunk, it can lead to rot. Then water. At first often, then after a few weeks, reduce to 3 times a week. Give your tree a really good watering, water to keep the root ball damp, and also to send water deeper down into the soil; roots are attracted to water, so this leads to deeper roots, essential to health, rather than a bit daily which leads to roots remaining close to the surface.
Long term, what to do? Trees do need your ongoing attention, always check for tight ties which will prevent the flow of nutrients and water moving up and down the tree.
Keep up the weeding and mulching, and avoid footfall, or cars driving over the root area, that compresses the ground, squeezing out the small air pockets which allow roots to breathe.
And finally, enjoy, knowing you have struck a blow in the fight against Climate Change, and for the health of your family and neighbours.
Well Done!
By Kate Southworth
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)
Mindbenders
Solutions: Turn to page 18
Mah-Jong:
A beautiful game filling you with joy and curiosity
The Shipham Inn (SomersetBS25 1TW) would like to welcome new members to join their regular Mah-Jong Group.
Whether you’re a novice, experienced Mah-Jong player or someone who would like to learn to play a warm welcome awaits. My hope is that we can make these enjoyable, social evenings playing a game that originated in the Far East.
1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month: 7:30pm. Free.
Contact: mark.trenchard53@gmail.com or phone / text 07815681580.
Glastonbury
Armed Forces And Veterans Breakfast Club
We are a group of Veterans & Serving Members of His Majesties Armed Forces whose ethos, like other Veterans Breakfast Clubs around the UK & the World, is mutual support.
It works because we have a similar humour & outlook on life.
There is no formal Membership and no Fees.
We meet every Wednesday at 08:30 for Breakfast at 09:00. For details of where we meet e-mail GlastonburyAFVBC@gmail.com or phone 07929 087260.
Singing together!!
We are a small group of singers who meet on Thursday evenings to sing in 3 part harmony.
Ability to read music is not essential. Variety choice of music. Very friendly atmosphere and we strive to put on evenings to raise money for charities as well as at singing at nursing homes etc.
Rehearsals are held at Downside, Shepton Mallet. For more information please contact annstilton@ btinternet.com
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
SPA Singles Social Group – South West, Est. 1979
We are a member led group, aiming to help you make new friends and improve your social life. Welcoming active, 40+ singles throughout the South West. Your local branch is Wells & Mendip.
Events include meals, walks, music, holidays, day trips, social evenings, theatre, etc. and whatever members wish to organize.
Find us on the meetup website at: www.meetup.com/spa-social-group
or use the meetup app and search for “SPA singles group south west”
Looking to give back to your local community?
Somerset Sight, your local charity supporting blind and partially sighted individuals, are seeking volunteer befrienders in the Frome area.
If you can spare an hour or two a week or fortnightly, you could make a real difference to someone who is suffering from sight loss and help them feel less isolated and lonely.
Bingeing, starving? There is a solution... Overeaters Anonymous
Do you have a problem with food? Do you feel
“Without a volunteer visitor coming to see me my life would be different; my volunteer brings me so much joy”
For information, please contact our office on 01823 333818.
New Beginning – Choosing Retirement Accommodation
Retirement is an opportunity to live life to the fullest, offering new opportunities and freedom, choosing the right retirement accommodation for you can help make that happen
We are all different and in life no one size fits all. This is particularly true when it comes to retirement accommodation. There are lots of factors to consider including location to loved ones, financial costs whether purchasing or renting, and just how somewhere can make your life fulfilling. Here are some things to consider.
Location
The location of potential retirement accommodation is probably one of the biggest considerations you will have. If you have family, then you probably do not want to live too far away from them. Naturally you might not want to feel that you are under their feet, but close enough to enjoy a regular get together and special occasions and if an emergency occurs. But the prime location might be determined by something else, perhaps a lifelong desire to life close to the sea. Perhaps, if you are a keen outdoors person, somewhere you can get out each day and enjoy nature. Perhaps you have a hobby that could influence where you want to retire to. All these things can influence where you want to live.
Cost, contributions and reselling
If you chose to live in a retirement community this could be considerably more expensive than private accommodation, both to buy or rent, and the extra costs of service charges and fees could make your ongoing financial commitments higher than anticipated. Looking into all the costs before selecting a new home will help avoid financial worries.
There are many schemes out there that will offer financial support to rent retirement accommodation and local authorities can advise what help is available.
If you buy a property that is part of a retirement complex, then it could make re-selling more difficult if you change your mind and the value of your purchase could reduce.
Safety and socialising
Many retirement complexes offer safety and peace of mind as opposed to living in a private home. If you have health or mobility issues help could be immediately available at the press
of a button. But this is not always the case, coverage and services vary greatly and should be considered carefully.
One of the nice things about retirement accommodation is that it can offer the best of both worlds, offering residents independent living and the opportunity to socialise on a regular basis with other people. Loneliness is a major problem for many older people and organised activities can counter this.
Rules and restrictions
It is important to know just what you can and cannot do in any potential retirement accommodation, some allow pets, but others do not, some allow you to park your car on the premises whilst others do not. These and other things might be important to you and careful consideration needs to be made along with some advice from your loved ones, and people you can trust.
By Rob Bullock
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) Changes
With the lighter nights - and as we head towards Spring – we draw closer to the stamp duty threshold changes that come into force on the 1st April. Currently, no SDLT is charged on the first £250,000 of a property’s purchase price, which means many buyers have avoided paying tax on a significant portion of their home’s cost. However, from April, this threshold will drop to £125,000. Buyers will now pay a 2% tax on the value of a property between £125,001 and £250,000, and an additional £2,500 in SDLT will be payable on all homes over £250,000.
For homeowners looking to move up the property ladder they will feel the pinch. With the nil-rate band halved, the majority of buyers will be expected to pay higher tax bills as the average property price currently sits at £289,000.
For first-time buyers there is a different formula, as the current SDLT relief means no tax is due on properties priced up to £425,000, with reduced rates applying to homes valued up to £625,000. However, after April 2025, these thresholds are set to decrease, with full relief only applying to properties priced below £300,000.
For buyers of second homes or Landlords adding
to their portfolio, the SDLT charges will be as follows (based on the purchase price);
Up to £250,000 : 3%
From £250,001 to £925,000 : 8%
Exceeds £925,001 : 13%
Haunted House?
On a lighter note, did you know it is not a legal requirement to declare a property is haunted in the UK, although it is in the US! Although hauntings can generate a lot of publicity, it can be a serious turn-off for buyers. The owner of a Grade II Listed house in West Sussex has blamed ex-tenant Adele for making his house unsaleable after an interview she did in which she said the ex-convent was haunted and ‘quite scary’. The Owner has spent the subsequent 13 years trying to sell the property, with no success. But it is not always bad news; haunted houses have their own section on Rightmove, and despite being haunted by a blood-thirsty black hound (allegedly), a Welsh chapel got 14 bids at auction and sold for over its guide price.
It is debatable which is more scary – the prospect of yet more higher taxes on property purchases or ghostly bumps in the night?
Choosing the Right Hearing Care Provider
By Simon Swindells, Audiologist and Owner at South West Hearing Care
When it comes to your hearing health, choosing the right provider is crucial. Whether you’re hearing is in decline or you have blocked ears, the right hearing care provider can make all the difference in your experience and outcomes. But with so many options available, how do you know who to trust? Here are some key things to consider when making your choice.
1. Qualifications and Experience
The first thing to look for is a provider with the right qualifications and experience. Audiologists, hearing care specialists, and clinical ear care practitioners should be fully trained and certified. Look for a provider with a proven track record of helping people with different hearing needs.
2. Personalised Care
Hearing care is not one-size-fits-all. Your needs are unique, and the provider you choose should offer personalised care that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
3. Customer Care and Reputation
Look for a provider with a strong reputation for customer care. You will want a team that’s supportive, approachable, and genuinely interested in helping you improve your hearing. Reading
reviews and testimonials from other patients can help you gauge a provider’s reputation.
4. Technology and Innovation
The world of hearing technology is constantly evolving. A reputable hearing care provider should offer the latest, most advanced hearing aids and devices. It’s important that you have access to the best technology available, designed to provide clear, natural sound while being comfortable and discreet.
5. The Value of Independence
Choosing an independent hearing care provider can make a significant difference in the level of personalised service you receive. Independent clinics, like South West Hearing Care, are not tied to any particular brand or manufacturer, meaning we can offer unbiased advice and recommend the best hearing solutions based solely on your needs, not sales targets. This allows us to prioritise your wellbeing and offer a wider range of options, ensuring you get the hearing aids and care that work best for you, without any pressure or compromise.
The best bracing UK beach holiday destinations this March
With its longer days and promise of spring sunshine March is an excellent month to have a coastal holiday. Here are three stunning suggestions
The month of March is a great time to enjoy a holiday by the seaside here in the UK. The chances of sunbathing may be low but the opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, big skies, invigorating walks, long lunches, afternoon teas, and a drink by a roaring fire is bound to recharge the batteries. From the very north to the south here three of my favourites.
Silver Sands of Morar – Scotland
Once seen forever remembered, the Silver Sands of Morar close to the beautiful old fishing town of Mallaig are astonishing. The white sandy beaches and turquoise seas will make you think that you are in the Caribbean until you dip your toes in the freezing waters! The miles of unspoilt and often empty beaches are the perfect place to take your dogs for a long walk, and then stop to enjoy a picnic lunch.
Mallaig is at the end of the scenic West Highland Line which runs from Fort William and includes the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous most recently in the Harry Potter films. To make getting there even more special you could travel up on the Caledonian Sleeper from London.
Alnmouth – Northumberland
Bordering Scotland Northumberland’s North Sea coast offers some of the most impressive expanses of sandy beach anywhere in the country. Coastal castles and fortresses, abbeys and monasteries dot the rugged and unspoilt seaside.
Situated near Alnwick – whose castle also featured in the Harry Potter movies, and south of the breathtaking Bamburgh Castle is Alnmouth, a small former fishing village with a famous nine hole golf course, which is the oldest in England. A large car park is situated on the beach, but the town itself is set slightly back from the beach. Because car parking in the village is often difficult why not consider travelling by train, the village is situated on the East Coast mainline so you can get there direct from London without changes.
West Whittering Beach – West Sussex
With six miles of sand and situated on the western coast of the Selsey Peninsular West Whittering Beach is a fabulous destination for a UK coastal holiday in March. During the summer months West Whittering can become very busy but in early spring you can enjoy bracing walks along the sands with your dog – there are dog exclusions between 1st May and 30th September.
Why not explore East Head which is an impressive sand dune managed by the National Trust. It is a kilometre long and 400 metres wide and easily accessed from West Whittering Beach Car Park.
You can travel by train from London to Chichester and then take the bus which runs every 15 minutes from Chichester Station. Alternatively, there is car parking near West Whittering Beach, but it would be wise to book this in advance to secure your place.
By Rob Bullock
The Wonders of Doctor Bent
By Paul Crawford
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
Dry Eye Clinic launches at Eyetech Opticians
Do you suffer from dry, gritty, tired eyes? Do they water a lot? Do they sometimes give you a burning sensation, redness, blurred vision, maybe a foreign body sensation?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above, you might be suffering with Dry Eyes.
Eye dryness is often caused by a variety of factors. Age is a major contributor, as tear production tends to decrease as people grow older. Hormonal changes, particularly in women during pregnancy, menopause, or as a result of birth control pills, can also increase the risk of dry eyes. Other causes include environmental factors, such as pollution or dry climates, air conditioning, excessive use of digital devices, including computers and underlying medical conditions, but the list goes on.
As an Opticians and part of the local community, we are noticing an increasing number of dry eye cases and would like to help. Sometimes off-the-shelf eyedrops just don’t help enough. People often forget, that although dry eyes can be managed but the problem won’t go away and therefore the eye care regime should not be stopped.
With this in mind, Eyetech are proud to announce the launch of their new Dry Eye Clinic. During your assessment your full synopsis will be taken, followed by the analysis of the front of your eyes, including your eyelids. Our optometrists will then work out the best customized management plan for your needs.
At the end of your appointment your eyes should feel lighter and refreshed.
If you are interested, you can book a Dry Eye assessment via our online booking portal or by phoning us on 01458 442178 if you have any questions.
Top tips for enjoying an enjoyable country hike with your dog
March is the perfect month to get out and about and enjoy a country hike with your dog. Here are some top tips for a safe and enjoyable day.
Preparation is key to any hike in the countryside. Living in a national park I often see visitors arrive for a ramble on the high fells and mountains. Most are well prepared, but some are not, and this can lead to a call out to the local Mountain Rescue for help.
Plan ahead
When you are thinking about a hike in the
Puzzle Solutions
Mindbender:
1: Fancy that 2: Put the cart before the horse
3: Three strikes and you’re out
countryside with your dog always think about where you are going. Mobile signals might be sketchy halfway up a mountain so go old school and take a map and perhaps a walk plan. Make sure you are choosing a route that you can manage and one which your dog can too, for example select a route without high styles if your dog finds these difficult.
Dress for the weather conditions
The weather can change fast if you are hiking on moors, fells, hills or mountains all over the UK. Always check the forecast the day before your trip and then when you arrive at your departure point.
Here in the UK in March we can have four seasons in one day so be prepared to dress for the cold, the sun, rain and perhaps even snow! Layering good quality outdoor clothing can help make sure you are prepared for absolutely anything. Make sure you have a good rucksack to store any supplies or extra clothing. Be sure to remember to take a coat or jumper for your dog too.
Good footwear
If you are going to keep up with your dog, you need good footwear – not pumps or trainers. Proper hiking shoes or boots with good grip might even be a life saver in slippery conditions. There are lots of hiking footwear to choose from so take some time before your adventure to find the pair that suits you. Also, new footwear can cause foot problems, which might be exacerbated on a long hike, so if you have not got a worn in pair, buy some well in advance.
Food and water
It is vital that you take supplies with you for you and your dog. Plenty of water and something for your dog to drink out of should be carried along with some dog treats and food.
Communicate
Although it is vital you carry a fully charged mobile phone it is equally important to tell your friends and family what you intend to do, what route you intend to follow, and when you intend to get home.
Finally, follow the country code, do not let your dog upset farm animals or wildlife, take your litter home, and scoop up after your four-legged friend – remembering to take it to a bin, not leave it on a wall, gate or hedge for someone else to move.
By Rob Bullock
Teriyaki and Lime-Glazed Chicken Wings
Preparation time: 10 mins
Cooking time: 40-45 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
2 tbsp rice flour (or substitute baking powder)
900g chicken wings - pat dry with kitchen paper
4 tbsp soy sauce
2 garlic cloves - finely diced
Thumb-sized piece of ginger - finely chopped
4 tbsp light soft brown sugar
1 tbsp cornflour
1 lime - zested and juiced
2 spring onions -sliced
1 red chilli - remove seeds and chop finely
Jasmine rice to serve
Method:
Preheat the oven to 220C/200C fan/ gas 8.
Line a large baking tray with grease proof paper. Place the dry chicken wings in a large bowl. Sprinkle over the rice flour or baking powder and mix well with your hands until the chicken wings are coated. Season well with salt and pepper. Spread the coated wings across the baking tray in a single layer. Bake for 20 mins.
While the chicken is cooking, make the teriyaki glaze. Into a small pan add the soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar and 150ml water. Cook over a medium heat for 4-5 mins until the glaze is bubbling and slightly thickened. Mix two tbsp of the glaze with the cornflour, then pour the mixture back into the pot, whisking continuously. Simmer for 2-3 mins until thickened. Squeeze in the lime juice.
Remove the chicken from the oven at 20
minutes and tip them into a bowl. Reserve a few tablespoons of the glaze and pour the rest over the wings, making sure they’re well coated. Spread them over the baking tray again and return to the oven for another 20 mins.
When they’re cooked, remove from the oven, top with the reserved glaze, then sprinkle with the lime zest, spring onions and chilli. Serve with fluffy jasmine rice.
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Shepton Mallet/BA4!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 8,988 homes & businesses to ALL of Shepton Mallet/BA4 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
• 100% guaranteed monthly delivery by ROYAL MAIL
• 95% of our advertisers rebook every month.
• 50% pages are given free of charge to the community.
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness
Month
Each day eleven women die from ovarian cancer often because the disease was detected to late, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month aims to raise awareness of the disease
Here in the UK, each year over seven thousand women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and unlike in other countries who detect the disease earlier than us, more than two thirds are detected late when the disease is harder to treat.
Ovarian cancer
Ovarian Cancer kills more women in the UK than womb, cervical, vulva and vaginal cancers combined but one of the keys to surviving ovarian cancer is early detection. In the UK just one in three women live more than ten years after their cancer diagnosis and this is because late diagnosis limits the treatment options and leads to a seventy per cent chance of recurrence.
But, there is a ninety-five per cent chance of survival if a woman is diagnosed at stage one and the aim of the UK’s leading ovarian cancer charity Ovarian Cancer Action is to make sure
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Shepton Mallet/BA4!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 8,988 homes & businesses to ALL of Shepton Mallet/BA4 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
• 100% guaranteed monthly delivery by ROYAL MAIL
• 95% of our advertisers rebook every month.
• 50% pages are given free of charge to the community.
that by 2032 half of women live more than ten years after diagnosis.
A lot of progress has been made. Ovarian cancer survival rates in the UK have almost doubled since the 1960’s with targeted therapies offering more treatment options.
Warning signs
Some of the main symptoms of ovarian cancer can include having a bloated or swollen tummy, pain in the tummy area between the hips, lower appetite and feeling full after eating, the need to urinate more frequently, unexplained weight loss and fatigue. If you have a family history of ovarian cancer or are experiencing some of these symptoms, please seek help.
Lower your risk
A healthy lifestyle is thought to help lower the risk of getting ovarian cancer. Stopping smoking and drinking moderately can help as can regular exercise. If you do have a family history of the diseases, there are test and step you can take to lower the risk. Your GP can offer advice about the options.
Walk In Her Name
One way you can participate in Ovarian Cancer Awareness month is by taking part in Walk In Her Name. This is where participants walk 100km in March in memory and celebration of the women that have been lost to Ovarian Cancer and to take part in a movement where the community comes together as one to fund research and change the lives of everyone effected.
Raise awareness and funds
There are lots of ways to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and funds for research. As well as taking part in a Walk in Her Name you could also organise an event in your locality. A bake sale is one way you can raise vital funds. Or slip into your running shoes and take part in a sponsored run. If you have time, you could raise awareness on social media – raising awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer could literally save a life.
For more information please visit www.ovarian.org.uk
By Rob Bullock
“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. Karen
