LocalReach Portishead October 2023

Oct 23

No. 16

PORTISHEAD - BS20

GARDENING – page 5

COMMUNITY – page 6

BOOKS – page 11

PUZZLES – page 12

BUSINESS A-Z – page 19

• Three and Four Wheeled Walkers

• Wheelchairs

• Bath Lifts

• Rise and Recliner Chairs

• Stairlifts

• Mobility Scooters

• Electric Wheelchairs

• Cosyfeet Slippers and Shoes

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Having issues with your internet speeds?

Often we get calls from customers with slow broadband. Sometimes the speed coming into the property is the problem, but often Wi-Fi problems limit the speed. One thing to be aware of is that your broadband provider will have a minimum speed guarantee (there are some exclusions) but it is worth finding out if you have this guarantee in place. Give your provider (i.e. BT/Sky/Talktalk and so on) a call and ask them what is the your guaranteed minimum speed. They should give you a download speed, which could be say 20 mbps.

The best way to test this is using a modern device right next to the main router and by using a speedtest app or website such as “Speedtest by Ookla” which is on the Android/Apple App store, or for computers users you can access it at www.speedtest.net - run a test and note down the download speed. Is this speed slower than the minimum speed guarantee? If so, it would be worth ringing your provider and seeing if they can improve the situation. Also some providers can offer much better speeds than others in the same area – here are a list of the fastest broadband products in the local area: Openreach (full fibre) accessed via BT/TalkTalk/ Sky, Gigaclear, Truespeed & Virgin Media. Not all addresses are serviced by these companies but it’s worth checking on their websites.

Potentially, the further away from the router you are, the slower the speed will be, so it is important to get the correct Wi-Fi boosting technology for Wi-Fi to work well around the house. We do offer a service whereby we would come to you and look into why speeds are not as good as they could be, so if this is of interest, please get in touch with me on 07973 536299 and I can arrange an engineer visit.

Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions Ltd.

We have Mobile Engineers in your area or with your permission we can access your computer remotely.

YOUR LOCAL, TRUSTED COMPANY

Engineer: 07973 536299

Office: 01275 849622

Garden View

This month – Blue is beautiful

promote drainage. An even easier way to grow them is to buy them ready-potted. Garden centres will sell them at this time of year.

In spite of their fussiness, they are hardy perennials. If you can get them established they’ll proliferate. In the garden divide them carefully, disturbing the roots as little as possible, every three years in the spring. If you’re growing them in pots then at the start of spring carefully scrape out some of the top compost and redress it with ericaceous compost. Keep it moist and in a partially shaded area and the flowers should return in the autumn. When the pot looks overcrowded you can try splitting them once the flowering season is over but often it is better just to buy new plants.

Gentians have a reputation for being tricky little things to grow and it isn’t entirely undeserved. They’re a temperamental lot. They will only grow from fresh seed; they require the gardener to jump through hoops to get them to germinate; they don’t like being transplanted; they insist on free-draining but not impoverished soil...the list goes on. But those gorgeous ultra-marine trumpet flowers are so desirable, especially at this time of year when not much else is flowering.

I’ve had my fair share of failures with autumn gentians over the years but still I keep trying to grow them.

Like most of us I haven’t the time to devote to primping and preening the truly diva-ish varieties: those are best left to alpine devotees. I’ve had most success with Gentian sino-ornata. These form low growing clumps some 15cm / 6inches high and 30cm / 12inches across. In the right conditions they will produce gorgeous bright blue trumpets with pale green stripes from September all the way to November.

Gentians prefer shade for at least part of the day and, I can’t stress this bit enough, there must be no lime in the soil, or they’ll turn up their pretty blue toes and expire. Unfortunately, as I garden in an area rich in limestone, (our house is actually built on a limestone ridge!) the only way I can grow them is in low, dish-shaped containers where they can spread out a bit. If you’re making up your own pots, use ericaceous compost with added grit to

The trouble with gentians is that they’re addictive. Grow a few successfully and you’ll get greedy for those startling blue flowers and want more. Then you’ll start to think, ‘I wonder if they really are that difficult to grow from seed…’ and you’re lost. Happy gardening.

By Rachael Leverton

Largest SEND Event in North Somerset!

Parent carers of children & young people with additional needs and disabilities can access face to face support through direct contact with charities, support providers, local advice services, health services along with education and social care teams from North Somerset Council.

Presentations from key note speakers, many training workshops on a diverse range of topics, exhibitors, hands on activities and drop in clinics to ask any questions. Parents, Carers, Family Members & Professionals are all welcome to drop in throughout the day to this fully funded Event. Follow us on social media @NSPCWT for more information or check out: www.nspcwt.org/events-1/event-a-day-of-send

A Day of SEND

18th October 2023

9am - 9pm

@ Priory Community School

North Worle, Weston-super-Mare BS22 6BP

Nest Associates - Sue Sadler

Sue, originally from Bath, made the move to Bristol in 2003 and to Portishead 6 years ago which she loves and hasn’t looked back since. With almost 30 years of experience in the real estate industry, Sue has built a reputation for selling and renting high-quality homes in Bristol and the surrounding rural areas. Sue takes pride in providing a bespoke service to her clients, particularly specializing in downsizing or “rightsizing” as it’s now called. Understanding the significance of maximizing one’s main asset and the potential stress that comes with moving, especially for longtime homeowners, Sue approaches each transaction with a calm disposition and a focus on keeping everything running smoothly. Joining the Nest Associates team was an opportunity Sue couldn’t resist, as the agency offers a modern and friendly approach that aligns with her own values and commitment to exceptional service.

Sue’s dedication to her clients, her affiliation with Nest Associates, and her active lifestyle make her an invaluable asset in the real estate industry, ensuring a positive experience for all those she serves.

CURIOUS HOW MUCH YOUR HOME IS WORTH?

THE AVERAGE HOME IN THE BRISTOL AREA HAS INCREASED BY 29.6% IN THE LAST 5 YEARS!

If you’re thinking about moving or interested in an up to date valuation of your home, start your journey by scanning the QR code below for an instant online valuation or contact me personally, I look forward to hearing from you.

Missing for three months

Portishead’s Methodist Minister, Rev Nick Moxon has just returned from a three month sabbatical. Hear about what he got up to at Wednesday Focus at 2:30pm on 4th October at Redcliffe Bay Methodist Church, Queens Road, BS20 8HT.

Everyone is welcome to any of the monthly meetings.

Car park, disabled friendly. Enter by the door on the right.

October in the WI

On 4th October our speaker will be Daphne Atkinson talking to us about Calender Customs.

New Members and visitors will be given a warm welcome at our meeting in St George’s Church Hall, Easton in Gordano at 7:30pm.

Craft Group dates for October are 10th and 24th.

Wednesday Focus

Wednesday Focus at Redcliffe Bay Methodist Church, Queens Road, BS20 8HT will have it’s October meeting at 2:30pm on Wednesday 4th.

The speaker will be our minister Rev Nick Moxon describing his experiences on his recent sabbatical. Tea, coffee and biscuits follow.

Everyone welcome to any meeting. Car park, disabled friendly. Use the entrance on the right.

Portishead Jazz Club. Trad Jazz, 1st Wednesday every month

CURIOUS HOW MUCH YOUR HOME IS WORTH?

SUE SADLER 0117 462 5600

sue.sadler@nestassociates.co.uk

Nest Associates - Sue Sadler

If you’re thinking about moving or interested in an up to date valuation of your home, start your journey by scanning the QR code below for an instant online valuation or contact me personally, I look forward to hearing from you.

@nest.associates_sue www.nestassociates.co.uk

Do come along and join the Muscrats on October 6th, and first Wednesday each month, at Clarence House, High St. Portishead, where we will be giving our renditions of good old jazz tunes from the 1920 - 1940s.

Bring your friends and neighbours and enjoy our cordial atmosphere starting at 8:00pm until 10:00pm.

Entry is £4 cash - regret no card payments, unfortunately we don’t have a card machine.

Hello and welcome from Mia, Claire and Toby at Meadows & Wood Hearing Care Specialists

Whilst on a care home visit last month I was discussing challenges that carers experience when attempting to chat with their residents. It’s easy to imagine a situation when the person that they care for might have limited mobility as well as poor hearing. The busy carer is often juggling tasks and alarms all while attempting to brighten the day by having a conversation with the resident.

It occurred to me that some helpful advice on how to communicate well would be very useful. Not only for our professional carers, but for anyone who may also be caring for relatives with hearing issues. Here’s our 5 top tips:

1. When speaking to a hearing-impaired person, it is important that you should attract the person’s attention first, perhaps by saying their name or making eye contact.

2. Speak clearly by not going too fast and saying each word fully. Also don’t cover your mouth, its important they can see it as well as your facial expressions.

3. Try to minimise background noise when speaking.

4. Make sure you are not too far away from the person.

5. Don’t shout! If someone is still struggling, then shouting won’t really help. Louder but still controlled and clear speech is what will be more successful. When someone loses their hearing, they also lose the ability to tolerate loud sounds, so a shout is likely to seem distorted or even painful.

If you or your loved one is struggling with hearing clearly, and you would like to know how we can help, we are here for you at home or in North Somerset’s only full time and fully independent audiology clinic. Contact details are below.

Happy Balance… Supporting your busy life

We are passionate about re-cycling, re-housing and re-using items, working with many local charities we distribute your unwanted items on your behalf. We always offer a FREE 1hour consultation to introduce ourselves and to discuss how we can help you.

Our clients know that allocating time to work alongside Happy Balance provides the impetus they need to make a start. Through experience we understand the importance of working with you at your pace, listening to you and helping you put into action what you want to achieve.

These are all scenarios from clients we have worked with:

• ‘I don’t want to leave it for the kids to sort’ – Feeling mindful that you need to get your home in order? You don’t want the family having to sort through everything when you are gone? We will work with you to streamline your home, recycle unwanted items and organise belongings you may wish to distribute to family and friends

• My partner/parent has died – You’re not only dealing with grief but also thinking about how you clear the house? We are NOT house clearance. We work with you sensitively, practically and confidentially to organise their affairs and clear the house for sale or other

• I am embarrassed – It’s all got on top of me and I just feel overwhelmed – Are you buying too many items, storing them away and feeling like you may be hoarding? Claire and SJ are non judgemental and through experience can help you declutter and regain control

• I’m moving and need to downsize – I can’t physically or emotionally cope with my move and I need help. We are hands-on in preparing your belongings ensuring that when your removal firm comes to move you that you have already sorted through, de-cluttered and made sure all your items, big and small will fit into your new home giving you peace of mind.

• ‘Our family space isn’t working for us’ –Who can help us? Happy Balance will give you guidance, ideas and hands on support to make the changes to make your home a living space and not a storage space

Family run business provides reliable bin cleaning services.

Gordano Wheelie Bin Cleaning will visit on the same day your bins are emptied. We arrive with our specialist equipment and load your bins into our bespoke cleaning trailer, thoroughly jet washing them inside and out, using only suitable and biodegradable cleaning products, removing all stuck on muck, grime and other nasties that lurk in your bin.

With the ongoing COVID concerns we use Dettol anti-bacterial products then spray deodoriser to ensure your bins are left sanitized, clean, and smelling fresh.

All water is fully recycled and is strictly disposed of in accordance with our Discharge Licence with all our operations being fully insured.

Have you ever tried to clean a wheelie bin?

It’s not the easiest of jobs! Boiling water to kill maggots and flies, awkwardly using a long broom or mop to reach all areas before tipping it back up to discharge foul smelling liquid. Most people tell us they only clean them out when it really needs it, infested or smelling awful, if indeed at all. Let us take that hassle away from you.

Did you know, unclean bins are a breeding ground for Salmonella, Listeria and E. Coli?

All prices online - A single wheelie bin from £4.50 every four weeks. Easy to sign up online with a card. We also accept cash or a standing order / bank transfercontact us and we will accommodate your preferred payment method.

Great feedback from regular customers.

Protect your family: we reduce harmful bacterial and remove lingering offensive odours with our perfumed detergent and deodorisers. We minimize other health hazards that your wheelie bin conceals.

Regular cleaning reduces the risks of pest infestation, maggots, flies and rodent activity.

We’re a local, family run business offering a regular, reliable service. Scan here to arrange a clean or visit gordanoclean.com or call us on: 0117 370 1770 to find out more

The Avon and Somerset Constabulary Police Choir

Portishead Rotary Club are pleased to present the Avon & Somerset Constabulary Police choir again in Portishead. Concert to be held on Saturday 7th October at the Methodist Church starting at 7:30pm. Tickets £12.50 available from Nortech Computers and Max Minerva’s, both in the High Street. Proceeds will go towards supporting projects, good causes including Youth in the local community.

Antique and Vintage Fair

Sunday 8th October, 10:00am - 3:30pm. £2 entry, under 16s free. Ashton Court Mansion Bristol BS41 9JN.

Fine jewellery gold & silver, homeware, furniture, paintings, prints, vintage clothing and accessories, militaria and much more. Vintage cafe - serving tea/coffees cream teas.

Yorkshire starts with Y

The October challenge for Portishead Camera

Club members will be to submit up to 3 pictures with the subject starting with “Y”. Simon Caplan will be the judge for Competition One on October 12th, and on October 19th member Paul Ruddock takes us to Thailand for the evening.

Meetings are held on Thursdays at Redcliffe Bay Hall, doors open at 7:00pm, with free entry for first-time visitors.

Visit www.portisheadcameraclub.co.uk for further information.

Support For The Bereaved in the Portishead Area

On Thursday 12th October at 10:00am, weather permitting, we will be holding our monthly Cruse “Walk and talk” which many bereaved people in the Portishead area find very supportive. Phone 0117 9264045 for more details.

On Thursday 26th October, between 10:00am and 12 noon, you will receive a warm welcome at the Cruse bereavement support Drop in, held in the Methodist Community hub, High St Portishead. Cruse bereavement Volunteers present and Refreshments available. Come initially with a friend if you wish.

A Good Read

Good Omens

by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman

Terry Pratchett’s “Good Omens,” a collaborative masterpiece co-written with Neil Gaiman, is an imaginative tour de force that seamlessly melds humour, fantasy, and social commentary. Published in 1990, the novel has become a timeless cult classic that continues to captivate readers with its wit and irreverence. The original book was adapted into a successful TV series, but the original book is definitely worth seeking out. The story revolves around an angel, Aziraphale, and a demon, Crowley, who have grown accustomed to life on Earth and have developed a certain fondness for humanity. When the apocalypse looms, they join forces to prevent the end of the world, inadvertently misplacing the Antichrist in the process. What ensues is a delightful romp through absurd situations, satirical jabs at religious norms, and a heartwarming exploration of friendship.

Pratchett and Gaiman’s unique writing styles blend seamlessly. Pratchett’s penchant for witty wordplay and Gaiman’s darkly enchanting storytelling combine to produce a tale that’s as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining. The duo weaves together multiple storylines, including the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, a quirky witch named Anathema Device, and a bumbling witch-hunter, creating an intricate tapestry of characters and events.

At its core, “Good Omens” is a celebration of the human experience. It nudges readers to question the conventions they take for granted while delivering laugh-out-loud moments that provide much-needed levity. It’s no wonder that this book has become a cherished favourite among readers.

The School for Good and Evil (Book 1) by Soman Chainani

Continuing the theme of ‘good and evil’ this month, the first book in Chainani’s series provides fresh take on fairy tales. Set in the mystical realm of Gavaldon, the story upends conventional notions of good and evil, sending readers on a journey of friendship, self-discovery, and moral complexity.

Sophie and Agatha are best friends, who are unexpectedly whisked away to the School for Good and Evil, an institution that trains children to become either heroes or villains in classic fairy tales. However, when their destinies seem to be swapped – Sophie, who embodies all things charming, is placed in the School for Evil, while Agatha, with her gloomy demeanour, is sent to the School for Good – the story takes a riveting turn. Chainani skilfully deconstructs stereotypes and delves into the depths of character motivations, making the reader question the nature of goodness and wickedness.

Chainani nicely balances whimsy with darkness in the exploration of friendship which is central to the novel. Sophie and Agatha navigate challenges that strain their bond, and face dilemmas that force them to confront their true selves.

The accessible, engaging prose makes the book suitable for a wide range of readers. The story invites readers to question the shades of grey between good and evil, and to embrace the power of friendship and self-acceptance. Young readers will almost certainly go searching for the sequels.

By Tash Donovan

Crossword Across

1 Dried grape (7)

5 Take place, happen (5)

8 Global, cosmopolitan (13)

9 Male relative (5)

11 Modulate, attune (7)

13 Ecstatic, joyful (6)

14 Dishevel, discompose (6)

17 Artist’s paint-mixing board (7)

18 Weary (5)

19 Hysterical with fear (5-8)

22 Beg (5)

23 Drags a riverbed (7)

Down

1 Convulsion, fit (7)

2 Object or objects for sale at an auction (3)

3 Accord, concurrence (9)

4 Peninsula between the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf (6)

5 Japanese kimono sash (3)

6 Anglo-Saxon King, Edward the _________ (9)

7 Rent out a property again (5)

10 Dispute, question (9)

Word Search

ant killer

bicycle bucket charcoal compost creosote

fork

hedge trimmer

hosepipe

ladder

lawnmower

mallet

oilcan

paint cans

plant pots

rake sacks spade

toolbox

trestle

twine

wood stain

12 Skin injury caused by extremely low temperature (9)

15 Conclusions, denouements (7)

16 Leased, chartered (6)

17 Appear suddenly (3,2)

20 Dastardly person (3)

21 Small barrel (3)

Puzzle Solutions

Jumble Sale in support of Flower Show

The next Jumble Sale in aid of Tickenham Flower Show, will take place on Saturday 14th October in Tickenham Village Hall from 2:00pm.

Bric-a-brac, books, children’s toys and books, clothes and who knows what else you will find. Come and have a browse, refreshments available too.

Entry 50p, no dogs please due to the nature of the event.

Bristol Area Urban legends and myths

The Gordano Civic Society promotes local history in Portishead and the Gordano Valley area. The next meeting will be on Monday 16th October (please note this is not on the usual second Monday) at 7:30pm in Somerset Hall (if this is still not open, then please look out for notices saying where and when the meeting will be held). Members £1, Visitors £5. The talk is about Bristol Area Urban Legends and Myths by Eugene Byrne. For further information please contact Catherine Dixon, Membership Secretary on 01275 849200

Portbury WI – Tuesday 17th October

Join the friendly members of Portbury WI as we look back over the last year. We’ve heard wellbeing, historical, musical and artistic speakers. We love a cream tea, playing boules and we organise monthly walks followed by lunch. As part of the wider WI community you can also go on outings and get involved in sports and campaigning activities.

November is our craft meeting – so put Tuesday 15th November in your diary too. We meet at Portbury Village Hall at 7:30pm (side entrance). Contact Helen Francis 07503 134817.

NHS Retirement Fellowship Gordano Branch

The next meeting of the NHSRF is on 18th October. We meet at Somerset Hall from 10:00am until 12 noon. Tea/coffee and biscuits available. We have a speaker and everyone pays £3.00. Come and visit us before committing to join, we are a friendly bunch.

Clevedon Music Club Concerts

October 2023 – April 2024

Clevedon Community Centre

Tuesday 17th October: 7:30pm; Duo Karadys (viola and pIano).

Tuesday 21st November: 7:30pm; Béla Hartmann.

Tuesday 12th December: 7:30pm; Marcus Evans (baritone).

Sunday 28th January: 3:00pm; Bochmann String Trio with pianist Paul Turner.

Tuesday 20th February: 7:30pm; Zosia Dzimitrowicz (piano).

Tuesday 19th March: 7:30pm; Emily Heathcote and Jason Anderson (clarinet and piano).

Tuesday 16th April: 7:30pm or Sunday 21st April: 3:00pm t.b.c, Outstanding musicians from Bristol schools.

With the exception of September, all concerts take place upstairs in the Teignmouth Room, Clevedon Community Centre BS21 7SZ.

Admission to individual concerts £12; Subscription for all eight concerts £72; Subscription for half season £38. By cash or cheque only.

To receive programme details by email; Phone 01275 875262 or email andrea.argent@hotmail.co.uk

Please cut out and save this advert for reference.

Prelude to War. Bristol’s own Great Exhibition

1914

Portishead Senior Forum at the Folk Hall, Wednesday 18th October.

At 2:00pm we reminisce about 1950s and 60s music with Paul Williams, while after tea and biscuits Clive Burlton tells the story of Bristol’s Great International Exhibition. Now largely forgotten, it was held in 1914 at Ashton Meadows, now home to Bedminster Cricket Club, a Nursery and the Escape Rooms.

The meeting closes at 4:00pm. Free entry for members, £3 for visitors.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Large Event for Parent Carers

’A Day of SEND’, Weds 18th October, 9:00am - 9:00pm. Drop in anytime - Priory Community School, WSM.

Parents, Carers, Families & Professionals are invited to this Free Event. Expect Key Note

Presentations, Training Workshops, Drop in Clinics, Hands on Activities for young people & parent carers plus over 60 stalls. We also have members from the Local Authority, Health, Social Care and Education sectors available.

If you have questions or just want a browse please do pop by. Tickets go live soon - follow NSPCWT on Facebook or www.nspcwt.org

Books & cakes for sale supporting the homeless in Bristol

On Saturday 21st October from 10:00am - 12noon is a Book and Cake Sale at Redcliffe Bay Methodist Church, Queens Road BS20 8BZ. Lots of books to choose from, assorted cakes, Fairtrade tea and coffee. Level access from the car park. Look forward to seeing you there. Raising money for the Bristol Methodist Centre who support the homeless and vulnerable.

Portishead Freemasons October Meeting

The Masonic lodge for Portishead Masons, Gordano Lodge, are holding their annual Installation meeting on Monday 23rd October. We will be celebrating our Worshipful Master at the start of his second year in the chair. All freemasons will be welcomed, especially those who are unattached or have moved into the area. If you are interested in this Masonic evening, please contact Marshall on 07585 152570 or Gordano.Lodge@gmail.com.

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest social and charitable organisations. If you would to know more about us, just ask.

Ethical Business & Ethical Investing

Monday 23rd October, 7:30pm to 9:30pm. St peter’s Church, Portishead BS20 6PS. Admission free. Led by Hugh Davies - Image, Reputation and Business Development Consultant. Any queries 01275 840245 or david.Tyers@gmail.com

Turn The Tide Portishead can help you recycle more

Did you know there is so much more you can recycle in Portishead than the standard things which go into your green recycling box? Turn The

Tide Portishead have compiled a handy list of what you can recycle and where in the Current Projects section of their website: turnthetideportishead. co.uk/projects/

If you would like to help keep Portishead clean and tidy, please join us for the next Portishead Big Clean on Sunday 29th October from 10:30am to 11:30am, meeting outside Café Lido on Esplanade Road. Please bring your own litter-picking equipment.

Dementia Friendly Family Day!

Join us for an interactive day for those with Dementia and the people that care for them. Completely free of charge, the day incorporates a variety of therapies including reflexology, hand massage, animal interactions, colour therapy, arts and crafts, live music and much more. The event takes place at Penny Brohn, Pill on Saturday 4th November, 11:00am - 4:00pm. Refreshments provided. Contact Emily to register your attendance: info@kubiakdementiafoundation. co.uk

Fibromyalgia Support Group

We are a group of people who are living with Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions who meet regularly to support each other. We meet monthly on the 3rd Monday afternoon, for coffee in Weston on the 2nd Friday morning and in Worle on the 4th Tuesday afternoon. Meetings are a mix of speakers, chat and information. We have a weekly hydrotherapy group and organise trips and meals out plus a craft group and interest groups as required. For more information, call Val 07411989478 or Jules 07840189641 or email wsmfibro@gmail.com

Do you play a musical instrument?

If so have you thought of playing in a local Band? Although based in Pill, Pill Festival Band attracts players of all ages and abilities from all over North Somerset and the Bristol area. We play light music and hold concerts from time to time. We meet most Monday evenings 7:00pm - 9:00pm and are particularly looking for percussion and brass players but any orchestral type instrument is welcome. Google “Pill Festival Band” for more details. We’d love to see you!

Is your metabolic health compromised?

Struggling with your weight and feel like you’ve tried everything and nothing seems to work? Do you feel like you no longer have control over your body and mind to make healthy food choices? Are you often lethargic and achy? Getting anxious about your long-term health? Or do you just want to feel and look better?

Chances are that your metabolic health is compromised. This is because so many of today’s foods are ultra-processed, which can seriously confuse our bodies. And eating too often and/or too much, as so many of us do, doesn’t help.

Metabolic Balance®, designed by German doctors in the 1980s, is a nutrition and hormone balancing programme that is based on food choices that work for your unique body chemistry. It is entirely food-based, meaning no fads, no shakes, and once completed, you are left educated and empowered about your future food choices. This means it’s sustainable in the long term, giving you a life-long framework that you can use to optimise and maintain good health in a changing world.

Chances are that your metabolic health is compromised.

Metabolic Balance® is a personalised weight management programme built around what your body needs. It’s not a diet but a hormonebalancing program that helps you naturally lose weight and keep it off!

For more info:

A fun group for the young at heart

We meet at St Andrew’s Church hall BS21 7UE every Tuesday between 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Cost £3. Refreshments, Crafts, Knitting, Card making, Scrabble, Card games, Boccia and Quoits (Seated), Occasional speaker and a good chat putting the world to rights. Further information contact John on 01275 870274.

Portishead Concert Band welcomes new players for autumn/Christmas Season

We are looking for new players, particularly clarinet and brass. We are a friendly welcoming group, no auditions. Rehearsals are on Tuesdays 7:30pm9:00pm. St Nicolas’ Church Nore Road. Portishead. BS20 8EN. Contact Chris Pearce 07790446188 or cdpearce@btinternet.com

Clairvoyant Evenings

We have been going over 40 years and meet every Wednesday night at Brampton Way Preschool Hall, starting at 7:30pm through to 9:00pm, with a different Medium each time for our Clairvoyant Evenings. £5 at the door, net proceeds always going to charities. Open to all.

Portishead Philatelic Society

We are a small active group of friendly stamp collectors who have been meeting in Portishead, near Bristol, North Somerset for the last 50 years or so and hold our monthly meetings at the Friends’ Meeting House in St Mary’s Road, Portishead, BS20 6QP at 7:30pm, mainly on the fourth Friday of the month, but please see our current programme at www.portisheadphilatelicsociety.org.uk/ index.html for the exact dates. New members are always welcome at our meetings which we hope they will find friendly, sociable, enjoyable and informative.

3 Peak Challenge Conquered!

Five amazing lads from Enjoy Church Football Team braved hideous weather conditions on 5th August to take on, and conquer the Welsh 3 peak challenge. Their fantastic efforts paid off as they raised over £5k to send back packs, uniform and school equipment to children in Romania to enable them to get an education, and for their parents to receive financial assistance from the Government. Despite the rain, their spirits were not dampened and they did us proud. There is still time to increase the fundswww.gofundme.com/f/UniRom

Have you got your Lasting Powers of Attorney (“LPAs”) in place yet?

You need to consider making these important documents whilst you are able and have capacity to do so to ensure you are protected.

We do not know what our future holds for us and you should consider making the LPAs sooner rather than later to put your affairs in order.

LPAs need to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (“OPG”) before they can be used and at the moment, the OPG is taking nearly five months to turn the LPAs around! This could be a problem for your family should you need assistance during that period and is another reason why you need to consider making them as soon as possible.

With Grove Wills, there is no form filling; we do everything for you. Our fees are very competitive too. Please contact us to arrange a free “no obligation” appointment to discuss further.

Call Karen on 07498 948580 or email info@grovewills.com

Hallowe’en Howlers…or Not? Graham Rogers, OvenGleamers

A bit of fun this month from OvenGleamers – do you know which of these are true or which are not ie Howlers?!

1. The hydrochloric acid of the human digestive process is so strong a corrosive that it easily can eat its way through a cotton handkerchief and even through iron. But it does not endanger the walls of the stomach, which are protected by a film of sticky mucus (yuk!). Howler? No this is true!

2. One of the first things we learned in a Chemistry lab is how to light a Bunsen burner, a gas burner used to heat solutions of chemicals. The eminent German chemist Robert W. Bunsen invented the Bunsen burner. Howler? Yes…Robert W Bunsen did not invent it, he merely popularized its use.

3. Most plant pollen is highly inflammable. It will ignite and explode when placed on an extremely hot surface. In the early days of modern theatre, artificial lightning was produced by throwing pollen grains of the club moss onto a hot shovel. Howler? No, it’s not.

4. Human skulls have been used as drinking cups throughout history. CroMagnon (the first early modern) man scraped away muscles and flesh and hacked off and smooth the lower portion of the skull. (It is not known whether these skulls belonged to revered ancestors or hated enemies.) In the Middle Ages, the skulls of saints were used as drinking cups on ceremonial occasions. Lord Byron served wine to his visitors in Newstead Abbey in a human skull that he found in the cloisters there. A Howler or Not? Not.

Why not give Woodspring u3a a try

This is a thriving organisation which continues to provide group activities for retired and semi retired residents.

From music, literature, lunches, breakfast, games, languages, bird watching, family history - the list goes on. It’s an excellent way to meet people, make friends and try something new.

We have a lot of fun.

Further details can be found on the website:u3asites.org.uk/woodspring/home

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