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DO YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF LOCALREACH EACH MONTH?
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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?
Armed Forces Outreach Service
Have you served? Are you the partner of someone who has? Is your partner currently serving? Come along to our Armed Forces Outreach Service at Heads Up, Upper Breach, South Horrington, Wells for a brew and a chat.
A selection of professionals will be on hand to provide advice should you need it and there will always be a warm welcome. Contact somicb.armedforces@nhs.net for further information.
Monthly on Mondays at 10:00am - 12:00pm. 24th February, 24th March, 28th April, 19th May, 23rd June.
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
Switch Club at Wells Library
For children aged 7 and up - book a place at our popular Nintendo Switch Club. Places available on Saturday 1st & 29th March at 10:30am. Free of charge - booking essential - email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk
Yummy Pancakes at Westbury Sub Mendip!!
Why not come and join us at Westbury sub Mendip Village Hall on Saturday, 1st March at 12.30pm for our PANCAKE DAY! Yummy pancakes to eat with a variety of sweet and savoury fillings, various pancake competitions and races for all ages. You could become the best village Tosser!!
Tickets available from the village shop Adults £5, Children 5 upwards £2 and free for pre-school. Proceeds to be split between the Village Hall and the Church. Look forward to seeing you - it’s always a fun event.
Are You Fed Up With Clutter?
For many home owners, the loft is an underutilised area because it can be difficult and dangerous to reach. South Bristol based loft ladder installer, Access4Lofts, whose slogan is ‘Creating Space The Easy Way’ can change all that, often in less than a day.
Access4Lofts Bristol South is owned by Anthony Cheung. He advises that; “With space at such a premium, it makes sense to make the most of your loft. Installing a loft ladder is quick and affordable. It’s less expensive than a garden shed, and it means you don’t have to store everything out of the house.”
Freeing up a room currently clogged with clutter can save a lot of trouble and expense, as Anthony explains; “Some people looking for more space consider moving to a bigger home, but this needn’t be necessary. People are surprised by the amount of space a loft can create, we can even include shelving to maximise the space too.”
Call Anthony now to book a free survey and quotation on 01275 293 128, or visit www.Access4Lofts.co.uk/BristolSouth
You can also find them on Facebook as Access4Lofts Bristol South.
Early Spring Gardening Jobs in March
The days are getting longer, and gardens are springing to life making it a delight to get in our gardens. Here are some early spring gardening jobs this March
March is a lovely month. It can also be a challenging one for the gardener with winter often reluctant to release us from her grip. The sun is getting stronger and plants, insects, birds and small mammals are busying themselves for the longer, warmer days to come as are some unwanted pests.
Mow your lawn – maybe...
There is nothing like the smell of a newly mown lawn to make you think of spring and with our milder winters March may well be the time that you need to give your lawn the first mow of the year, but only if the weather is dry and has been
dry for a little while or you could cause damage. And if you have any dandelions on your lawn, consider leaving them as they will provide vital food source for insects.
The vegetable plot
The early potatoes that you have been chitting need to planted, as do onion or shallot sets. As the potatoes sprout be watchful of potential frosts and hoe up and cover accordingly. If the forecast is mild think about sowing broad beans, peas, carrots and beetroot. Spinach and summer cabbage and cauliflower can also be sown outdoors along with some lettuces.
Flower borders
March is the perfect time to plant summer flowering bulbs such as gladioli and lilies. Because the weather in March can be variable consider sowing summer flowering annuals such as nicotiana, petunias, marigolds and salvias in the greenhouse or cold frame.
Hardy annuals such as stocks, sunflowers and poppies are by their very nature less affected by variable temperature and weather conditions and if you have a sunny area in your garden should grow well.
Pest prevention
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.
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
Wells Social Group for the Visually Impaired
Meetings are held on the 1st & 3rd Monday of the month at 11:00am. Come along to Wells Library and find out what facilities are available and what the library service can provide. 3rd & 17th March. Email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk for more information.
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 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
Entertaining Poet Melanie Branton in Wells, 3rd March
Wells Fountain Poets are delighted to be hosting funny, clever, ironic Bristol poet Melanie Branton on Monday 3rd March, 7:00pm9:00pm, upstairs in The King’s Head, Wells High Street. Plus open mic. £3.
Full information at wellsfountainpoets.wordpress.com We meet monthly, usually on the first Monday.
Make a Difference with Make Your Will Week 2025!
Take advantage of free will making services between 3rd - 7th March 2025 in support of Weston Hospicecare. Local solicitors will generously give their services and time for free in exchange for a suggested donation of £150 for a single will and £225 for a mirror will to Weston Hospicecare. Amazingly, 1 in 5 of patients’ care is funded because someone kindly remembered Weston Hospicecare in their Will. Contact the solicitors directly to enquire about booking your appointment today: www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/event/ makeyourwillweek/
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.
Watermark Bathrooms and Adaptations - Bathroom fitting specialists with an excellent track record
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
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
The Bank of Mum and Dad
If I asked you to name the top 10 banks in the UK, could you name them all? Of course, you’d think of HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds, but would The Bank of Mum and Dad make your list?
A recent survey shows that 84% of parents help their children with deposits, contributing 26% of funds to the UK housing market. This makes the Bank of Mum and Dad (BoMaD) the 9th largest “financial institution” in the UK.
Latest figures for 2024 reveal:
• Over half of under-35s who recently bought a home received financial support.
• BoMaD contributions have reached an astonishing £8.8 billion.
• Around 325,000 house purchases were backed by The Bank of Mum and Dad.
One-way parents provide this support is by releasing equity from their property. This can be done through a traditional mortgage, increasing their loan amount, or using more specialist options like Retirement Interest-Only mortgages (RIOs). These are designed for customers aged over 50’s who have retired or are still working.
With a RIO mortgage:
• The balance doesn’t decrease, and only the interest is repaid monthly.
• There’s no fixed term—it’s repaid when the customer enters long-term care or upon their passing.
• Affordability is assessed using assets, private/state pensions, and income.
• Early repayment is allowed, with fixed-rate options available.
So why choose us? Our job is to find the right mortgage for your needs by assessing your circumstances and recommending the best solution. With access to a vast range of lenders, including exclusive deals not available on the high street, we ensure you never pay more than you need.
Life is busy, so let us handle the mortgage process for you—from application to completion—leaving you free to focus on what matters most.
Call us on 01275 244360 to arrange a no-obligation discussion.
‘Tornado in my tummy’ – the impact of trauma on children and young people
When a child or young person is having a hard time, often they don’t have the words to explain how they feel, or don’t believe (for many reasons) that they can share their experiences.
Trauma affects at least 9 or 10 children in the average school class.
Pre-pandemic research from King’s College London in 2019 suggested that 31% of children and young people have had a traumatic experience in childhood with one in thirteen of children or young people experiencing PTSD before the age of 18. (There has been no comparable study since.)
For many traumatised children, the psychological impact of trauma includes feelings of helplessness, vulnerability, loss of safety and loss of control.
The physical effects of trauma
The behavioural effects of trauma
For a child that has experienced trauma, sleep disturbances often occur, with nightmares and night terrors. Hypervigilance and the need to be constantly on the alert leads to further exhaustion, irritability, and anxiety. Sometimes children become increasingly reliant on their parents or carers alongside an avoidance of people, places or things which remind the child of the trauma, and this is often mis-labelled as school refusal. Increased risk-taking behaviours can increase in some children too, for a variety of reasons, which are often trauma related.
The cognitive effects of trauma
Often for a child who is living with or has experienced trauma, concentrating and maintaining focus can be incredibly hard and this can impact their academic achievements and general behaviours. Frequently, children who have experienced trauma are given a diagnosis of ADHD or ODD. These diagnoses can obviously exist alongside a trauma diagnosis, but if there is an on-going history of no reduction in symptoms with medication, then undiagnosed trauma should be considered.
Supporting a child who has experienced trauma
Do you need help for a child or young person that you know?
The physical effects of trauma for a child often include psychosomatic illnesses, where they are complaining consistently of physical complaints including headaches, stomach-aches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. It is worth considering if this is their body’s way of showing stress if medical concerns have been ruled out.
If you know of a child, young person or a family who are struggling with the effects of trauma or a traumatic experience, I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I might support them.
I'm a local therapist, based in Wells, who supports children, young people and their families to help them manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges.
Do you need help for a child or young person that you know?
Supporting children and young people to help them manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges
Do you need help for a child or young person that you know?
Elaine Hutchinson
www.creatingcalm.co.uk
Working together with families and those who support children to look after themselves as well as others
I'm a local therapist, based in Wells, who supports children, young people and their families to help them manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges.
hello@creatingcalm co uk 01749 599066
Elaine Hutchinson
www.creatingcalm.co.uk
THERAPIST WORKING WITH CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
CREATIVE ARTS COUNSELLOR
TRAINER AND CLINICAL SUPERVISOR
CHILDREN’S ACCELERATED TRAUMA TECHNIQUE (CATT)
CREATIVE ARTS, PLAY THERAPY AND FILIAL THERAPY
creative art and Play therapy | Autplay | trauma play sand tray therapy | emotional Logic coaching | tele-therapy
Elaine Hutchinson
hello@creatingcalm.co.uk
TRAUMA PLAY AND SAND STORIES THERAPY LEGO SERIOUS PLAY
PARENTS AS PARTNERS AND PCAP
CLINICAL ASSESSMENTS
A Good Read
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
March at Coxley, Henton and Wookey Churches
Lent starts with an Ash Wednesday Holy Communion at Wookey Church (10:00am Wednesday 5th March).
Enjoy a reflective Taizé-style service at Coxley Church (6:30pm Sunday 9th March) with chants, readings and candles.
Families and children have a special event: Celebration of Spring (3:00pm Sunday 16th March) at Wookey Goat Farm – activities, plant bulbs, and see the baby goats!
We all join together on Mothering Sunday (30th March) at Henton Church with a 10:30am Holy Communion service.
Visit our website to find out more Sunday meetings and events: www.chwchurches.co.uk
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.
West Mendip Walkers March Walk Programme
Thursday 6th March: West Mendip Walkers moderate 9m circular walk starting 9:30am from Compton Dando (BS39 4JZ). W3W: trash. whites. bend.
Thursday 13th March: West Mendip Walkers moderate 10m circular walk starting 9:30am from Wookey Hub (BA5 1JR). W3W: furniture. pushing. zapped.
Thursday 20th March: West Mendip Walkers moderate 10.5m circular walk starting 9:30am from Ham Wall Nature Reserve (BA6 9SX). W3W: lookout. manicured. winners.
Thursday 27th March: West Mendip Walkers moderate 10m circular walk starting 9:30am from Compton Dando (BS39 4JZ). W3W: trash. whites. bend.
Details: www.mendipramblers.co.uk
Lego Club at Wells Library
Lego Club is on Saturday 8th March at 10:30am. For children aged 5 and older. Please book your place to avoid disappointment.
Email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk
Neighbourhood Policing - Talk to Us
Drop in to Wells Library and speak to a member of Wells City Neighbourhood Policing Team on Tuesday 11th March 11:00am - 12:00pm. If you want to raise a concern about an issue in your community, the Neighbourhood Policing team will be on-hand to help. No need to book - just drop in.
Country dancing and more for fun, fitness and warmth
We do dances ranging from English to zesty American. Bring a friend or come alone. A warm welcome is assured. Wednesday evenings in March are 12th, 19th and 26th, 7:30pm - 9:30pm.
Wells Folk & Barn Dance Club, St. Thomas Church Hall, St Thomas Street, Wells BA5 2UZ
Call 01749 674920 or see www.wellsfdc.co.uk
Justin Newland - Author Talk at Wells Library
Justin Newland will be discussing his new novel “The Midnight of Eights” - exploring the hidden story of the repulse of the Spanish Armada in 1588. Friday 14th March, 11:30am - book a FREE place by emailing wlslib@somerset.gov.uk
Come with us to the lands of ice and snow!
Two enchanting puppet shows to share with you, full of magic, mayhem and walruses!
TALES OF THE FAR NORTH - A return visit by Angel Heart Theatre and Skylarker. For families and children of 5 years plus. Friday 14th March 6:00pm. Afterwards meet the puppets and enjoy tea, juice and cakes!
Available from Westbury Community shop (01749 870297) or Sue Isherwood (01749 870457) sueisherwood9@gmail.com
Some tips for the month:
1. Still like a landline phone but your provider tells you that if you change package, the landline will be lost? Several providers such as Plusnet are trying to phase out the landline phone, but it is worth noting that may providers do still offer landlines.
If you still would like a landline style phone, I would recommend moving provider for phone line and broadband. For example: Plusnet users can move to EE (BT have rebranded), Truespeed, Virgin or Gigaclear (to name but a few).
We offer a home visit service whereby we can navigate this process with you.
2. If you get a message on the screen telling you to ring a phone number because you have a virus – it is a scam and they will offer to “clean” your computer for £600!! Do not allow this, and if you have been caught – ring your bank and advise there has been fraud and ask for a refund!!
3. Not computer related, but regarding Energy Bills. I would recommend asking your energy provider to upgrade your home to a Smart Meter, if it hasn’t got one already, as you will get access to some much cheaper packages. Once you have a smart meter – consider using a service called “Hugo Energy Pro” – this uses AI to scan your energy usage and it recommends a cheaper package. We recently switched, which unlocked some big savings. Smart Meters do not use your Wi-Fi but have a bespoke radio system to transmit your readings every 30 minutes to the supplier.
4. For those of you on Windows 10 or earlier – please do consider upgrading or replacing your equipment onto Windows 11. A computer can only be at its most secure, if the operating system is up to date. If you need help, we both supply and setup equipment to make the whole process straightforward, plus we offer a handy guide to help. We can also provide ongoing support as and when needed.
5. If you have important data on your computer such as documents or photos, please consider a backup system – either cloud based and/or an external USB device is recommended.
Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions Ltd. sales@e-cps.co.ukor phone/text/WhatsApp 07973 536299
mobile engineers in your area or with your permission we can access your computer remotely.
Complex muscular pain resolved in just three treatments
“I’d travel to the clinic every day for the care and advanced science”
Lizzie Caplan of Warminster, Dorset was doing demanding work resettling Ukrainian refugees until, two years ago, she was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder that affects connective tissues and joints. This can be very painful and easily lead to injuries.
“As a still young person, I was feeling the crushing weight and shock of my health problems”, says Lizzie. “Then my hip became very painful - possibly bursitis, according to the hospital. I’d heard that laser therapy could be good for any hip muscle or tissue problem so I researched and found Matthew Jackson.
“At the clinic Matthew offered me an ultrasound and found that I actually had not bursitis but a complex muscular problem.
“After painless treatment with the laser device, Matthew suggested shockwave therapy. I was a bit apprehensive - but a few minutes of discomfort didn’t matter after being in agonising pain for so long. Then he finished with PEMF treatment, based on magnetic therapy - another amazing machine.
“By the end of that session, my pain had reduced by a huge 70% and after session two, I was almost completely pain free. Six weeks later, after driving a bit too much and aggravating my hip, I went back for another session for more repair and now I’m feeling really good.
“I believe that Matthew is doing important work. He and Becky listened and cared, which hugely reduced stress and improved my mental health. Treatments are tailored to the individual backed by advanced science, so they really work. Yes, I had to travel for an hour to the clinic, but I would do that every day if I had to for the treatment that they give.”
Exclusive offer
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 shockwave sessions, quoting the offer code ‘MAKE IT RIGHT MARCH’
Call 01458 860392 before 31st March.
About Matthew Jackson…
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
Matthew Jackson - BSc (Hons) Ost, Dip Ac/CHM (China), Pg Dip CHM (OB/GYN), Pg Cert US (MSK) MRCHM, BMUS
‘Late Summer Colour; the big, the bold and the beautiful’
Wednesday 19th March. We are fortunate to have Derry Watkins, author, teacher and plantswoman, as our March guest speaker.
Derry started the extraordinary Special Plants Nursery thirty years ago. She also founded the Rare Plants Fairs in 1990 and ran them for many years. In this talk she will share her extensive knowledge of plants, reflecting especially on those that bring colour to our gardens at the end of the summer. Henton Village Hall at 7:00pm for tea or coffee, before a 7:30pm talk. New members welcome, visitors £5. www.hentongardenclub.weebly.com
Roy Orbison Tribute Concert in Henton Village Hall 22nd March
Dave’s Roy Orbison and The Human Jukebox will perform on Saturday 22nd March in Henton Village hall at 8:00pm.
Come and enjoy a fantastic night of live
entertainment with Dave performing the biggest and best known hits of the Big O, including In Dreams, Crying, It’s Over and many more. And, just to up the ante, Dave has other true favourites that will have you on the dance floor all night long.
Tickets at £25 are available now from Viv Chalk, Whats App 07445 808079.
“Music
Matters” - Singing for Fun and Community - Axbridge
Celebrate the voice YOU have and join us for an afternoon of song. Open to those living with Dementia, Parkinson’s, other brain atrophy, or those feeling isolated.
Come along with your partner/carer - you are ALL VERY WELCOME. Enjoy a drink, a biscuit and chat with others before singing starts.
Facilitated by Maureen Campbell a trained Singing-for-the-Brain facilitator and Movement Psychotherapist. Tel. 01934 852869. Meet alternate Tuesdays, Axbridge Town Hall. Times 2:15pm - 3:45pm. £2 donation welcomed.
Next sessions: March 25th cancelled; April 8th & 22nd; May 6th & 20th; June 3rd & 17th; July 1st...
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.
Like
Art? Like Cake? Try Draycott Art Club on Thursdays!
A friendly club with regular tutor, we welcome new members of all standards to Draycott Memorial Hall BS27 3UE on Thursdays from 10:00am -
Puzzle Solutions
1:00pm and/or 2:00pm - 4:00pm.
Paper, materials, and refreshments are included, and (often home-made) cake!
There’s a still life every morning, a programme of events, and a model every afternoon, or you can do your own thing.
Your first visit is free of charge! Just turn up, and see for yourself, you don’t even need to bring a pencil! More info from www.draycottartclub. weebly.com
Bingeing, starving? There is a solution... Overeaters Anonymous
Do you have a problem with food? Do you feel desperate with no where to turn?
Try these questions:
- Do I go on eating binges?
- Do I sometimes eat until stuffed or even feel sick?
- Do I severely restrict my food intake to control my weight?
- Do I fantasise about how much better life would be if I were a different size or weight?
Free weekly support group, Saturday, 10:30am. Email oasaturdayWsM@gmail.com to find out more.
oagb.org.uk
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”
Mendip Homeless Charity Appeal For Urgent Replacement Shepherds Hut
Please help me raise the funds for this much needed homeless refuge that provides shelter, counselling and rehabilitation for the local Mendip homeless.
The current hut in situ is failing and is critical in providing a small private bedroom for newcomers as they adjust before moving into the main farmhouse to pursue the workshops and therapeutic gardens.
Watch the video: www.connect-centre.org.uk/ dairy-house to see the inspirational work this charity provides
Thank you for your kind generosity. Jill Meadows (fundraiser)
Volunteer Drivers Urgently Needed
Volunteers are desperately needed for our Community Transport Service that enables vulnerable people to attend medical appointments out of their local area when they don’t have any other form of transport.
We are looking for people with their own car, a full driving licence and spare time on their hands to join our friendly team. We would be happy to chat with anyone interested and answer any questions. Please ask them to give us a call here at Mendip Community Transport on 01749 880613 or via email at chantel.difford@mendipct.co.uk
“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.”
“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
