“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
If you are a local community club, group, association, school or church then we would love you to send us your local news, events and information. We can give you 100 words FREE OF CHARGE each month. LocalReach now supports over 750+ local clubs, groups, associations, schools or churches each month. To submit your community notice simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and fill in the form on the Community Notices page.
We want to especially help local clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches that have no income or very little income for advertising. Please help us spread the LocalReach word!
LocalReach is now on Facebook - go to www.facebook.com/localreachwells
Advertising in LocalReach is a fantastic way to reach all your existing, and potentially new customers. LocalReach is delivered by Royal Mail to all homes & businesses in your postcode area every month. It is packed with community notices, interesting articles and local businesses. A massive 98% of our advertisers rebook every month so we must be doing something right!
So, if you are looking for more business then contact us now. To advertise just go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and fill in the contact form or email hello@localreach.co.uk
Community Notices are free of charge
Please visit www.localreach.co.uk and click on Community Notices page Deadline is 24th March for the May issues
Disclaimer.
For Business Advertising call 01749 600388 or visit our website www.localreach.co.uk Deadline is 24th March for the May issues
Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this magazine, we make no guarantee that the content will always be current, accurate or complete. We do not approve any of the services or products provided by advertisers in this magazine. Anyone using the products, services or advice from advertisers will need to carry out normal checks to make sure businesses are trustworthy and
LocalReach Ltd 2025.
LocalReach is delivered each month by ROYAL MAIL to ALL of the Wells/BA5 postcode areas, including all towns and villages within the postcode areas, to every resident and business, totalling 10,220 copies each month.
We take non deliveries very seriously and in the event of a non delivery being reported to us we follow the Royal Mail’s complaint procedure.
If you are not getting your monthly copy by the end of the first week of any month please send us an email to hello@localreach.co.uk with the full address of the non delivery and we will ask Royal Mail to investigate and report back.
I am often asked questions about shared ownership, so hopefully this brief article will help. Shared ownership, also referred to as ‘part-rent, part-buy’ is one of a number of initiatives in England aimed at helping people who are struggling to get on the property ladder. As the name of the scheme suggests, by buying this way you will initially own a share of your home, as opposed to owning all of it, with the option to purchase some, or all, of the remaining share in the future. For the share you don’t own, you will pay rent on it to the relevant Housing Association (HA). And until you buy the remaining share, it will be a leasehold property with the Housing Association owning the freehold. There are three main costs to be aware of:
1. The mortgage repayment on the share you own (along with your deposit).
2. The rent on the share you don’t own.
3. The monthly property service charges, which typically apply to these types of properties. There are numerous benefits to buying this way, principally it is an affordable way to get on the property ladder and you can buy with just a 5% deposit. You have the freedom to decorate or keep pets, you can increase your share (called stair casing) over time so reducing the percentage owned by the HA and the associated rent amount, and you can sell even if you haven’t stair cased to full ownership.
It has been suggested that selling on a shared ownership property is tricky, however in my experience this isn’t the case. Demand is high and viewings are usually carried out as Open Days. There is more work for the Selling Agent to do as eligibility criteria needs to be met for any potential buyer. This criteria will depend on the Housing Association involved and involves a financial assessment to ensure it is affordable. If you do decide to sell your shared ownership house, the sale value is generally determined by a RICS surveyor not a local estate agent, hence the price asked is a fixed price and not a guide price.
If you would like more information on shared ownership, either to buy or to sell, then please contact me on 07566 756699 or scan the QR code below.
If you are part of the Armed Forces community, come along to our monthly outreach session at Heads Up, Wells, for a brew and banter. Rebecca or Teri will be there from the Armed Forces team at NHS Somerset, as will Jon, Sam or Samanthaour Somerset Armed Forces Link Workers. The next Wells sessions are the 24th March and the 28th April at 10:00-12:00. All details can be found on our web pages nhssomerset.nhs.uk/armed-forces/ armed-forces-outreach/. Don’t sit at home on your own ... come along and meet the team!
Wookey Hole W.I. meet monthly in the Bistro at the Wookey Hole Caves Hotel. We have parking outside and easy access to the hotel. No night driving is involved as we meet in the afternoon. We are an active group and have interesting speakers. In addition to our monthly meetings we gather for coffee each month in a local cafe. We recently took part in the former Mayor’s Community Charity project by transforming a wedding dress into a dress using the Suffragette colours. Over 120 dresses were transformed and have been exhibited in various locations. We were proud to have joined in. The Photograph shows the former Mayor Tanys Pullin and some of our ladies with our beautiful dress.
Do pay us a visit if you are new to the area and would like meet new people or would just enjoy a chat. Refreshments and a warm welcome guaranteed. We usually meet on the first Monday of the month but due to school holidays our next meeting is on Monday 31st March at 2:00pm. For further details ring Jill on 01749 675477.
Do you fancy the applause for your creative writing to ring around your home? Or around Somerset? What if it could be heard across the whole country? Then throughout Europe? And it needn’t stop there. A whole wide world waits for the 2025 WFL International Competitions to start on 1st April. Poetry, Short Stories, a Book for Children… take your pick. Or have a go at them all! Entries regularly come in from across the globe and competition is fierce… but fair. Full details are on the website… wherever you are. www.wellsfestivalofliterature.co.uk
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
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
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Wells/BA5!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 10,220 homes & businesses to ALL of Wells/BA5 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.
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
For over thirty years April has been Stress Awareness Month. Its aim is to raise awareness of the causes and how to deal with stress
Stress effects everyone differently, some stress in our lives is ok, but when it begins to impact our mental and physical health it can seem to take over our lives. There are ways to become aware of, and to battle and overcome stress and this is what Stress Awareness Month aims to do.
The World Health Organisation defines stress as ‘a state of worry or mental tension that is caused by a difficult situation’, but it is much more than that and it can have a massive impact on our everyday lives in the short and long term. Everyone deals with stress differently, and it is this which makes helping people close to us who may be suffering from stress difficult.
The symptoms of stress can be physical, mental or behavioural. Pyhiscally, they can include headaches or dizziness, muscle pain, digestive problems, chest pains or raised heart rate, or sexual problems. Mentally, the symptoms can include difficulty concentrating or decision making, constantly worrying about everything, being more forgetful than usual or feeling overwhelmed by life.
Stress can be seen in changes to behaviour, eating more or less than usual, sleeping too much or too little, and having broken sleep, wanting to avoid certain places or people, and being much more irritable and snappier than usual. Stress can also lead people to become more dependent on drink, cigarettes, medications or drugs.
Sometimes if you know what is causing your stress it might be easier to find ways to manage it. It could be your work, perhaps you feel under pressure or perhaps a big change is impending, perhaps you have a family or relationship problem. Perhaps you are experiencing financial problems, or perhaps you have health worries. But many other events in our life can lead to stress.
Talking about how you feel is a great way to start to take on the stress in your life head on. Perhaps start with friends or close family and consider peers, or professionals. Perhaps consider contacting your GP. Exercise is another way to battle stress. Trying to become more positive and starting to take control of your life are great ways to begin to take on stress. Cherish the achievements you have made in your life so far.
By compartmentalising things that are worrying you it makes dealing with them more achievable. Why worry about a telephone call you need to make next week, you can’t deal with that today. A day-to-day approach to living helps make life less stressful. At the end of every day write down three things that went well that day.
Help is always just a conversation away. You could also contact the Samaritans, call: 116 123 or email: jo@samaritans.org if you need someone to talk to.
For more information and resources please visit www.stress.org.uk
By Rob Bullock
Watermark Bathrooms is a well-established business serving Wells, Somerton, Street, Glastonbury and surrounding areas.
With over 15 years’ experience installing bathrooms, including easy access bathing, we are proud to offer a local, friendly, reliable and professional service without the overheads of the large companies. At an initial meeting we will take time to listen to your needs and discuss solutions. We offer a free no obligation consultation, professional design options, personalised quote, and after care. We aim to keep any disruption during installation to a minimum and will dispose of all waste.
We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt and customise bathrooms to maximise space and design functional layouts, whether you are looking to update a small cloakroom, modernise a family bathroom or install easy access showers or baths, we can help.
At Watermark Bathrooms, we know that bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes which is why we offer a range of walk-in showers to suit both your space and your needs. Our easy access showers and walk in baths are all equipped with additional safety features such as grab bars, shower seat or non-slip flooring. We tailor each project individually to provide safe and stylish bathrooms. Rediscover the pleasure of safe bathing with custom made solutions.
All staff are fully qualified and insured and we are committed to communicating effectively throughout the process, ensuring that customers are informed and involved at every stage.
If you are looking for a bathroom fitting company that genuinely cares about your specific needs and delivers outstanding results, look no further. Our attention to detail and quality of workmanship is evident in the final result – beautifully designed, accessible bathrooms meeting the expectations of our clients.
Nowadays when customer service can often fall short, Watermark Bathrooms prides itself on being a shining example of excellence. You can rely on us! Please give Mark a call.
• Wide range of floor coverings
David Secchi
Concert pianist and composer, David Secchi, the winner of several prestigious piano competitions, will delight us with pieces by Schubert, Schumann, Liszt and Chopin in a recital at Henton Village Hall on Sunday 6th April, 6:00pm for 6:30pm.
Tickets at £12.50 are available from Viv Chalk, Whats App 07445 808079 or vivianchalk@ icloud.com. There will be a cash or card bar.
All proceeds are in support of Christ Church Henton Revitalisation Fund.
Celebrate Easter with treasure hunts, trails and fun crafts this April! Suitable for children of all ages and their families or carers.
Monday 7th: Collect beads on our Easter crosses treasure hunt and make a necklace or keyring
Wednesday 9th: Discover the Easter story with a Cathedral map, then make an Easter garden
Friday 11th: Follow our Easter story trail and make cards or decorations
FREE with adult entry (donations welcome). No need to book – simply drop in on the day, 10:30am - 3:30pm.
www.wellscathedral.org.uk/visit/families
Accompanied children only. Sorry, only assistance dogs are allowed.
Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch Meeting Monday 7th April
RAFA-MSB Branch meets at 11:00am Monday 7th April in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. Presentation by Sqn Ldr Ayden Feeney MoD Abbey Wood “Change Delivery in the RAF Today”, a Post-AGM discussion and optional Lunch & Drinks from Club Menu & Bar.
RAFA-MSB covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA6, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA Members, Current and Ex-RAF Personnel and
Reserves, Current and Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of RAF Family and Members of public that support RAFA aims & purpose welcome.
Contact Secretary rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057.
Award-winning poet to read in Wells
Popular Bristol-based poet and novelist Deborah Harvey will be making her third visit to the Fountain Poets in Wells on Monday 7th April at 7:00pm upstairs at The King’s Head in the High Street. Suggested donation £3.
Deborah is co-founder of the Leaping Word Poetry Consultancy. Her sixth poetry collection, Love the Albatross, deals sensitively with the subject of family estrangement. It was published last year by Indigo Dreams.
Plus open mic - no need to book in advance. Contact Ama Bolton on 07929 870580
Please come to our annual Easter bingo. Lots of prizes to be won and a jackpot of £100 cash. Raffle prizes also.
Tea. Coffee and biscuits available.
Thursday 10th April at Croscombe Village Hall, Wells. Doors open 6:45pm. Eyes down 7:30pm.
Bring your family and friends and come and have some fun.
Come for fun, laughter and fitness with dances ranging from 17th century English to modern American contras. Two left feet? No problem. Bring a friend or come alone. A warm welcome is assured.
Wednesday dancing evenings in April are the 16th, 23rd and on the 30th we have Seth Tepfer from Atlanta USA calling for us, with music from local band Pair of Shears.
Wells Folk & Barn Dance Club, St. Thomas Church Hall, St Thomas Street, Wells BA5 2UZ.
Call 01749 674920 or see www.wellsfdc.co.uk
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 01749 597187
At Creating Calm, Elaine is excited to offer SandStory Therapy, a gentle and safe way for clients to explore their personal stories through the unique medium of sand. This therapy invites you to express yourself by creating stories and using symbols in the sand, helping you to connect with your inner wisdom. What is SandStory Therapy?
SandStory Therapy encourages storytelling in a hands-on way, allowing you to share your experiences while working alongside Elaine. By using sand and symbols to explore your thoughts and feelings, you can:
• Listen to Your Inner Voice: Discover insights about your life and experiences.
• Process Difficult Emotions or Experiences: Work through big feelings like low mood, anxiety, or anger.
• Feel Supported: Elaine will guide you in a safe and caring environment. Who Can Benefit?
SandStory Therapy is suitable for anyone looking for a safe way to address their challenges or tough experiences. It’s particularly beneficial for those dealing with:
• Anxiety and low mood • Anger and frustration • Relationship or friendship issues
• Past neglect, trauma, or abuse • On-going hard experiences
Why Choose SandStory Therapy?
This approach not only helps you understand and process your emotions but also encourages organic changes in your thinking and behaviour, which can make a positive difference in your everyday life. This lovely, gentle way of working is suitable for anyone from seven to adult.
If you’re interested in exploring SandStory Therapy for yourself or someone that you know, or you have any questions, please email Elaine: hello@creatingcalm.co.uk
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
If you’re bored of the same old pub routine, then why not consider some of these brilliant experiences that are becoming increasingly popular in the UK.
Put your problem-solving skills to the test with themed escape rooms, from historical mysteries to sci-fi adventures. It’s a bit like the Crystal Maze without the eccentric bald guy and, hopefully, a
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Wells/BA5!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 10,220 homes & businesses to ALL of Wells/BA5 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.
drink or two… though probably best not to start on the shots until after you’ve cracked the cipher.
If you love cocktails but struggle to replicate them at home, you will enjoy a professional bartenderled workshop. Learn to craft your favourite drinks, master the super secrets used by expert mixologists and, quelle surprise, drink lots of yummy drinks.
Forget dartboards with more holes than a slice of Edam, and sticky Scrabble sets with all the vowels missing, gaming is cool again. Shuffleboard tables (a bit like curling on a smaller scale) and Toad in the Hole (throwing brass discs into a hole) are popping up in pubs across the country. And if they don’t float your boat, how about dedicated table tennis bars?!
In other words, grown-up play is here to stay, from retro arcade games, board games, or modern video games with mates, you no longer need to keep your gaming addiction a secret.
Unleash your inner Viking with this thrilling activity. Many venues offer coaching, food, and drinks but, most of all, it is (an unexpectedly) safe space to process all that rage you’ve been building up.
Sure, we know it’s not a ‘new’ type of night out, but does comedy ever get old? Grab your mates and get down to your nearest laugh-a-minute venue to release those happy hormones.
If you’re not a fan of the music played in most traditional venues, then a silent disco is the perfect experience out for you. Dance the night away with headphones, where you can switch between different music channels and, when it all gets too much, simply switch off and enjoy the silence.
No longer exclusively an afternoon activity in some naff seaside town, miniature golf has come out from the cold and is now available to play in many town centres. Courses that glow in the dark or are made out of junk give the classic game an exciting new edge, with the added bonus of banging music and beer. Win, win.
By Simon Swindells, Audiologist and Owner at South West Hearing Care
As April arrives, nature awakens with a breathtaking chorus of sound. The dawn chorus of birds in full song, the rustling of new leaves in a gentle breeze, and the distant laughter of children playing outdoors—all these sounds make spring a season of renewal, warmth, and connection. But for those with hearing loss, these once-familiar sounds may fade into silence, creating an invisible barrier between them and the world around them.
Hearing is one of our most precious senses, allowing us to engage fully with our environment and those we love. The cheerful trill of a robin, the gentle hum of a bumblebee, or even the rhythmic patter of an April shower—these are not just noises; they are experiences, emotions, and memories in the making.
However, many people gradually lose their hearing without realising how much they are missing. It often begins subtly asking people to repeat themselves, turning the volume up a little more, or noticing that conversations in noisy environments become harder to follow. What starts as a mild inconvenience can eventually lead to withdrawal from social situations, frustration, and even feelings of isolation.
The good news is that modern advancements in hearing technology mean that no one needs to miss out on the joys of spring. Today’s hearing aids are very discreet, comfortable, and incredibly advanced, capable of restoring the rich textures of sound that make life so vibrant.
At South West Hearing Care, we believe that everyone deserves to experience the full beauty of the world around them. If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, don’t wait. A simple hearing assessment could be the first step toward reconnecting with the sounds you love.
Simon has 20 years’ experience as an Audiologist and is the Owner of South West Hearing Care, with local clinics in Street, Somerton and Westbury.
Street/Somerton: 01458 555533 | Westbury: 01373 823076 |
We work on projects of every size, from individual residential properties to substantial edevelopment schemes across the commercial and public sectors.
Our business is built on satisfying our customers and producing great results.
ROOFING SERVICES GET A FREE QUOTE TODAY
We give a 5-year guarantee on all completed work, with all our materials under a 10-year manufacturer guarantee.
✔ Re-roofing ✔ Flat roofing
Welcome to The Roofing Contractors, we're an experienced roofing and property services contractor We deliver a full range of cutting-edge roofing solutions and property maintenance services.
✔ New roofing ✔ Felt roofing
experienced roofing and property services contractor We deliver a full range of cutting-edge roofing solutions and property maintenance services.
✔ Roof repairs ✔ Rubber roofing (EPDM)
We work on projects of every size, from individual residential properties to substantial redevelopment schemes across the commercial and public sectors. Our business is built on satisfying our customers and producing great results.
✔ Roof maintenance ✔ Fibreglass roofing (GRP)
We work on projects of every size, from individual residential properties to substantial redevelopment schemes across the commercial and public sectors. Our business is built on satisfying our
✔ Tiled roofing ✔
We give a 5-year guarantee on all completed work, with all our materials under a 10-year manufacturer guarantee.
✔ Slate roofing ✔ Guttering
ROOFING SERVICES WE OFFER
✔ Re-roofing ✔ Flat roofing
✔ New roofing ✔ Felt roofing
✔ Roof repairs ✔ Rubber roofing (EPDM)
✔ Roof maintenance ✔ Fibreglass roofing (GRP)
✔ Tiled roofing ✔
✔ Slate roofing
Amenolado Bahia Bain
Baking
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)
Solutions: Turn to page 26
To Dig, or not to Dig? That is the Question...
Charles Dowding. The “No Dig Gardener” Wednesday 16th April. Charles is one of the country’s foremost advocates of No-Dig organic gardening. He shares with us the wisdom of his 40 years of experience. His much-acclaimed method has consistently produced higher yields and healthier crops – without back-breaking digging! Charles’s influence stretches across the globe, including a YouTube channel, numerous publications, and appearances on the BBC.
Henton Village Hall BA5 1PD at 6:45pm for refreshments before a 7:30pm talk. Visitors £7, members free. Contact Sue 01749 674767, sue.fennycastle@gmail.com
Further info: www.hentongardenclub.weebly.com
Join us for reflection around the cross on Good Friday (2:00pm - 3:00pm, 18th April) at Coxley
1stApril30thJune2025 (Ts&Csapply, seewebsite)
Church, with readings, music and prayer. We celebrate Jesus’ resurrection with Holy Communion, hymns, Bible readings and prayer at Church services on Easter Sunday: Henton Church (9:00am), Coxley Church (10:30am) and Wookey Church (10:30am). Everyone is welcome to come!
Visit our website to find out more about our events and services: www.chwchurches.co.uk
Showcasing the work of more than 13 local artists we design our exhibitions to be fun as well as amazing. Launch party 7:00pm - 9:30pm on Friday 9th May with prosecco.
A closing celebration with live performance of storytelling and music at 7:00pm - 8:00pm on Friday 16th May after which there will be more prosecco as you wander amongst the art until 10:00pm.
The exhibition at 8 Town Street, Shepton Mallet BA4 5BG will also be open daily 10:00am - 4:00pm from 10th-16th May.
Let our qualified & friendly team help you decide
• Specialists in accessible bathing
• Free home visits and quotations
• Full design and installation service
• VAT free for those with a long-term illness or disability
• Reduced costs for over 60s & less abled customers From walk-in baths, easy clean wall panelling to toilet lifters & bidets
• DFG & SSAFA Grant work undertaken
It seems incredible that our humble teeth could tell us about something going wrong elsewhere in our body, but that is precisely what happens. For example, persistent gum infections and bad breath may indicate undiagnosed or poorly controlled diabetes. Gum disease (periodontitis) has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease due to the inflammation it causes.
Loose teeth, meanwhile, or receding gums, might signal osteoporosis, as declining bone density can affect the jawbone, while dental abscesses or untreated cavities could be caused by a compromised immune system, which struggles to fight off infections.
They can inform us of what we might be lacking
There can be many signs that your body isn’t getting the nutrients it needs. Red, swollen gums can indicate a lack of vitamin C, while enamel erosion may point to a calcium deficiency. If you are feeling constantly fatigued and weak, check for pale gums and a sore tongue as this might signal anaemia (iron deficiency).
When we are constantly under pressure it can influence various parts of or body, but one area that tends to hold a lot of tension is the jaw. Bruxism is a condition where someone is frequently grinding or clenching their teeth, often linked to stress or anxiety, and can lead to enamel damage and jaw pain.
Another symptom of stress is digestive issues which can manifest in your mouth as the erosion of tooth enamel. This is because acid reflux or GERD, causes stomach acid to flow back up the oesophagus, damaging the teeth over time.
They can hint at a need to change your habits
It is obvious that enamel constantly stained with red wine or discoloured by tobacco use could be an indication one ought to lay off the fags and booze, but bad breath (halitosis) can also suggest poor hygiene or underlying conditions like liver or kidney problems.
They can improve your confidence
Bad breath and yellowing teeth can be a real mood killer, but they are also a motivator for better oral hygiene. Flossing every day and brushing your teeth twice daily will help keep many problems at bay, but a regular dental checkup and professional clean are equally important if you want to keep smiling through the decades.
Are you looking for more business from Wells?
LocalReach Community Magazines is delivered monthly by ROYAL MAIL to 10,220 homes and businesses to ALL of Wells/BA5 reaching a population of 24,528 people.
Prices start from as little as £27+vat per month. Contact us now at www.localreach.co.uk or call 01749 600388
• 100% guaranteed delivered by ROYAL MAIL
• 95% of our advertisers rebook every month.
• 50% pages are given free of charge to the community.
Fast, effective recovery from back pain and surgery
“My surgeon and physiotherapist were amazed!”
Peter Michel understands the human body - and the joy and benefits of movement. “I work as a self-employed somatic movement facilitator near Brighton and I love yoga and dance.” So when Peter was forced out of action by back pain, nerve damage in his leg and surgery for a herniated disc, he was keen to get the best support for healing and recovery.
“I was living near Glastonbury and Matthew had helped me previously when I had a slipped disc. So after the surgery, suffering a lot of pain and discomfort, I made an appointment at the clinic.
“I knew that acupuncture is good for reducing inflammation and improving circulation – and I had a lot of inflammation in my back. I also knew that laser therapy had been great for repairing and strengthening my slipped disc - so I was confident that Matthew could help support my healing.
“At first I had three sessions of acupuncture and laser and then Matthew suggested that I combine these treatments with time in the hyperbaric oxygen chamber, so we did this for several more sessions.
“The results were incredible. My surgeon and physiotherapist were amazed at the speed and effectiveness of my recovery and I was in a lot less pain and felt great. I still had to learn not to push myself too hard but now I’m delighted to be moving and working again.
“I would recommend Matthew and Becky one thousand per cent! They are incredibly friendly, kind and supportive. Walking into the clinic is like walking into a space station. Matthew has invested in such high grade equipment because he understands its healing capacityand this comes from his genuine desire to help people.”
Somerset Health Practice is making a special, exclusive offer to LocalReach readers – A free Ultrasound scan, worth £130.
*Offer open to the first 5 readers to book a block of oxygen or PEMF sessions, quoting the offer code ‘ACTIVE APRIL’
Call 01458 860392 before 30th April.
Matthew Jackson of the Somerset Health Practice is well known locally as a trusted osteopath and acupuncturist who is truly dedicated to helping and healing people through modern natural medicine. He is also an expert herbalist and registered practitioner, having trained in London and China with world class professionals.
Matthew is always studying new ways and gaining new qualifications to help his clients, taking a holistic approach. These include Shockwave and Laser therapy for pain, injury and wounds alongside hyperbaric oxygen therapy for longevity, chronic disease healing and enhanced performance. Look online for Somerset Shockwave and Origin Oxygen and read informative e-books.
For more information and to claim the exclusive offer* call 01458 860392 Treatments are private and easy payment plans can be arranged to suit your budget Follow us ‘Somerset Health Practice’ on Facebook and Instagram, or ‘@glastoosteo’ on Twitter
Westbury-sub-Mendip Gardening Club - join our friendly, happy group
We meet at 7:30pm on the fourth Tuesday of the months September to May (except December) in Westbury-sub-Mendip Village Hall, Hannah’s Lane BA5 IJD. We have interesting speakers, demonstrations, activities, plant/seed sharing, competitions, raffles, free refreshments and an annual social evening with fun quizzes, free drinks and shared food. You can join as a member, including additional activities and outings, or pay as a visitor.
At the next meeting on Tuesday 20th May James Cross, Head Gardener at Wells Bishop’s Palace Gardens will give a talk about them, following a visit there by Gardening Club members on Friday 25th April.
For more details phone 07814 275266 or email denisehoogesteger@btinternet.com
and exciting exercise classes for the over 55’s
Local charity Age UK Somerset has 3 fabulous new dance-inspired exercise sessions ‘Simply Dance’. These fun and dynamic classes are designed for people over 55 and bring the fun factor to functional exercise through movement and dance helping to improve balance, strength & mobility. These classes include standing, some seated or supported exercise and dance inspired movement to music.
Classes are held at Chilcompton (Monday 12:30pm), Henton (Tuesday 10:30am) and Evercreech (Thursday 10:30am), £6 per session. Sequins are optional, smiles definitely mandatory!!
For more information call 01823 345624 or email ageingwell@ageuksomerset.org.uk
Inclusive Board Games, Card Games and
We meet at the Lawrence Centre, Wells BA5 2PQ on the first and last Tuesday of each month from 3:30pm - 5:15pm.
Adults with Autism Spectrum Conditions, learning differences and other disabilities.
Free of charge with free refreshments.
All welcome, including support staff, friends and family members.
Contact Frances for more info: ReigateSC@hotmail.co.uk
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 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.
Are you looking for more business from Wells?
LocalReach Community Magazines is delivered monthly by ROYAL MAIL to 10,220 homes and businesses to ALL of Wells/BA5 reaching a population of 24,528 people.
Prices start from as little as £27+vat per month. Contact us now at www.localreach.co.uk or call 01749 600388
• 100% guaranteed delivered by ROYAL MAIL
• 95% of our advertisers rebook every month.
• 50% pages are given free of charge to the community.
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.
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.
Western Fuel are suppliers of Home Heating Oil and as your local Somerset, family run supplier, can offer you a fast and reliable service at competitive prices.
• Heating Oils
• Lubricants
• Boiler Servicing
• Fuel Cards
• Automatic Top-Ups
• Tank Replacements
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.
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
Problem Solving & Repairs
Virus/Spyware Removal • New PC Systems
Broadband/WIFI Problems • Performance Improvement
Upgrades
Websites
Help & Tuition
Swallowcliffe Interiors is an independent soft furnishings business, based in Wookey Hole, which has customer focus at its heart.
We offer a bespoke service for local homes and small businesses and can be there for you as much or as little as you need, following your initial enquiry.
The services we provide include hand-sewn curtains and roman blinds, custom-made cushions and lampshades, small upholstery projects including headboards, and furniture upcycling.
If you need help to decide where to start on larger projects, we can provide an interior design consultation to enable you to bring your ideas to life.
We are also able to supply fabric, curtain poles, tracks, a variety of roller, venetian and vertical blinds, and other soft furnishing accessories, from a range of carefully-chosen suppliers.
Contact us to arrange a no-obligation discussion - by phone on 07444 297 912; by email at info@swallowcliffeinteriors.co.uk or complete the website contact form at www.swallowcliffeinteriors.co.uk
The Swallowcliffe team look forward to helping you make your dream interiors happen.
Hand-sewn curtains and roman blinds
Bespoke cushions, including box seat
Hand-made lampshades – drum and tailored
Supplier of roller, venetian and vertical blinds
Fabric and furnishings accessories supplies
Small upholstery and upcycling projects
07444 297 912
info@swallowcliffeinteriors.co.uk www.swallowcliffeinteriors.co.uk
If ever you’ve watched the news on April 1st trying to spot the fake story we have a few fun reminders of some classic pranks from years gone by:
The most famous is probably the BBC’s 1957 Panorama report on the bumper spaghetti crop. Huge numbers of viewers were duped by the footage of Swiss peasants gathering long strands of pasta from the trees.
In 1962, Swedish television viewers were fooled into thinking that they could transform their blackand-white sets into colour by stretching a nylon stocking over the screen.
Back in 1972, newspapers around the world reported that the body of the Loch Ness Monster had been found floating in the water. It turned out to be a bull elephant seal that had been placed there by a zoo worker as a practical joke.
In 2008, we were stunned to see a BBC film of Adélie penguins flying across the Antarctic on their way to spend the winter in the rainforests of South America. This became one of the most viewed videos on the internet.
In 2023 the Telegraph reported that some of Britain’s tallest buildings, including the BT Tower, were to be converted into wind turbines to help Britain reach net zero under radical climate plans secretly approved by the government. “The Treasury is understood to be ‘hugely supportive’ of the scheme as it will help bring down the cost of electricity in London.
Who knows what the ‘fake news’ stories will be this year, though frankly you might be forgiven for struggling to work out what’s real and what’s not at the moment. Such are the crazy times in which we live that every day feels like April Fools Day!
By Lisa Johnson
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.
New Choir - Thursday Mornings in Glastonbury - Glastonbury Sings Musicals!
A choir for people who love songs from the musicals. Led by Polly Carroll. Thursdays 10:00am - 11:30am in St Mary’s Church Hall, Magdalene Street, Glastonbury. No auditions and no need to read music. £10 per session. Enquiries: glastonburysings@gmail.com
Wells u3a
Join Wells u3a with a choice of over 55 different interest groups, talks, trips and holidays. Sports, music, literature, science, artistic, languages to name but a few of the subjects covered. If not one for you, we welcome new members to start up groups with the help of our very able committee. We have a very comprehensive website with all of the groups described in detail along with how to join: wells.u3asite.uk. A wonderful way to make like minded friends and get out and about in the lovely spring weather.
Puzzle Solutions
Mindbender:
1: Four eyes 2: I’ll be back 3: Pull yourself together
‘Share experiences and enjoy companionship socialising with likeminded people’
Street Branch Royal Naval Association covers all areas of Somerset and meets monthly in the Wessex Hotel, 15 High St. Street, Somerset BA16 0EF. Current and ex RN, RM, WRNS, RFA, Reserves and Commonwealth personnel are welcome. Associate membership is also available to relatives of current and former serving personnel, Sea/Marine Cadet staff and civilians. Monthly meetings include a raffle and end with the option of staying for lunch at the hotel.
Contact Chairman Mike Jayes, Tel: 07805 516946
Email: streetrnachair@gmail.com for details of the next meeting.
Charity Theatre Trips supports the British Red Cross by enjoying a show at Bristol Hippodrome. There is a lot to choose from, with coach travel included in the price. We start at Curry Rivel, pick-up in Langport and Somerton, then either Keinton Mandeville and Shepton Mallet or Street, Glastonbury and Wells. Our newest reservations are for The Bristol Light Opera Company amateur premiere of ‘Les Miserables’ and the new highly praised production of ‘Fiddler on the Roof’, both in August. Reserve now. Pay later! Log on to www. charitytheatretrips.com for full details.
Charles Bonnet Syndrome is linked to sight loss. When you lose your sight, your brain gets less information from your eyes so the brain can make up for this by creating hallucinations. Not everyone who suffers sight loss experiences CBS, for those who do, it is quite frightening.
Do you know of anyone suffering CBS? Are they scared to mention it? Somerset Sight your local charity who supports blind and partially sighted people across Somerset with practical and emotional support. For more information, please contact 01823 333818 or email admin@ somersetsight.org.uk
CPR training programme in Cheddar has been hailed a resounding success. The initiative
received incredible support from the King’s Head public house, whose landlord Olly generously donated all proceeds from meat draw ticket sales to fund the purchase of a new outdoor defibrillator.
The training sessions, were aimed at increasing public confidence in administering CPR and using defibrillators.
Olly, landlord of the King’s Head said, “Supporting the community has always been important for us to raise money for such an essential cause.
The defibrillator will be installed outside King’s Head.
“Fantastic responsive service. It’s the 2nd time I have used Central Roofing…Went above and beyond and assisted me in issues around insurance. I would recommend this company to anyone with roofing issues.”
*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
