LocalReach Shepton Mallet August 2023

LOCALREACH SHEPTON MALLET – BA4

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Aug 23 No. 02

GARDENING – page 5 COMMUNITY – page 6 PUZZLES – page 8 BOOKS – page 16 RECIPES – page 19 BUSINESS A-Z – page 20

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BOX END END BOX

We We used used Central Central Roofing Roofing to to take take down down an an old old flat flat roof roof and and install install another another on on our our business business premises premises at at Knight Knight Brothers Brothers Garage.

Garage. The The company company was was very very reliable, reliable, they they turned turned up up when when they they said said they they would, would, the the guys guys that that did did the the work work were were very very tidy tidy and and efficient. efficient. The The work work was was completed completed in in the the time time frame frame they they set…we set…we are are more more than than pleased pleased with with the the finished finished job. job.

Karen KarenAnderson Anderson

SOFFITS SOFFITS

DOWNSPOUTS DOWNSPOUTS

Central Central Partnership Partnership Ltd, Ltd, The The Exchange, Exchange, Express Express Park, Park, Bridgwater.

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LOCALREACH

Join our army of LocalReach Community Editors...

If you are community minded like us then we would love you to send us your local news, events and information. We give 100 words free of charge and want to help at least 50-75 local; clubs, groups, associations, schools, churches each and every month.

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 the all the clubs, groups, associations, schools, churches that have very little income for advertising. Please spread the word!

Are you looking for more business?

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 1st August for the Sept issues

Advertising from only £16+vat pm Email hello@localreach.co.uk or call 01749 600388 Deadline is 1st August for the Sept issues

Disclaimer. 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 reliable. LocalReach Ltd 2023.

DO YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF LOCALREACH EACH MONTH? LocalReach is delivered each month by ROYAL MAIL to ALL of the Shepton Mallet/BA4 postcode areas, including all towns and villages within the postcode areas, to every resident and business, totalling 8,886 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.

Downside

SHEPTON MALLET

West Compton Pilton

Dean

BA4 Evercreech

Wanstrow Upton Noble

East Pennard Alhampton Hornblotten

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LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

EweMove now in Shepton Mallet The rapidly growing sales and letting agent, EweMove, is welcoming a new member to its flock as Anne has now launched in Shepton Mallet.

Anne commented: “I am delighted to be launching the unique and award winning EweMove brand and expanding it into Shepton Mallet” she said.

“I am confident that our innovative approach to estate agency, combined with our 24/7 service and passion for brilliant customer experience will be hugely beneficial to everyone looking to buy, sell or let locally,” she said.

“The key to our success is our quirky brand and our extensive marketing. We make sure that our customer’s properties really do stand out from the crowd, giving them the attention they deserve,” she continued, “This includes providing amazing photographs, 2D and 3D colour floor plans as well as carefully crafted marketing descriptions.”

According to Anne, 95% of people now search online for property, this is why EweMove lists properties on all of the major property portals to generate huge exposure and lots of enquiries.

“This, combined with EweMove’s ‘Mammoth Marketing’ approach,” she continued, “means

that our seller’s and landlord’s homes get more interest, more quickly. We also operate a 24/7 service to ensure that any viewing, enquiry, purchase offer or application is never lost. It’s obvious really. Most people search for houses online when they’ve finished work, or at weekends - precisely when most agents are shut.”

EweMove pride themselves on their range of unique customer service propositions, with customers not required to pay upfront fees or sneaky hidden charges along with a ‘No Sale – No Fee’ promise which forms their ‘Happy Sale Guarantee’. For vendors this means that they are not tied into long contracts and can walk away at any time without being charged a penny!

EweMove is rated ‘5 Star’ and ‘Excellent by their customers on the independent review platform Trustpilot.

For anyone wondering what their home is worth in your Local Reach area, the EweMove website features a free online valuation tool that provides an instant valuation report.

For further information please contact me on 01749 600 339 or visit www.EweMove.com/ Sheptonmallet where the free, instant valuation tool can be accessed.

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Anne Flintham Branch Director

Call 24/7 01749 600339

Scan Me

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Garden View This month – Wonderful Wisteria

Wisteria, with its enchanting cascades of fragrant flowers, adds a touch of elegance and charm to any garden. It has a reputation for being slow and difficult, but it’s really not justified. You just need a bit of know-how.

Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil to plant your wisteria. The ideal time to plant is during early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant.

Ensure the planting hole is deep and wide enough to accommodate the root ball and add organic matter to enrich the soil. Provide a sturdy support structure, such as a trellis or pergola, for the wisteria to climb..

This month is one of the pruning months for wisteria. Twice yearly pruning plays a crucial role in shaping and maintaining the growth of the plant while promoting abundant flowering. The other pruning period is during late winter or early spring.

During August, after the flowering period, prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Trim long shoots, maintaining a balanced framework while retaining a few leaves on each pruned stem. This allows the plant to channel energy into flower production for the following year.

During winter/early spring, remove any dead, damaged, or weak branches. Trim back the previous year’s growth to around three to five buds from the main stem. This encourages the formation of flower buds and prevents excessive growth.

Wisteria generally requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply at the base of the plant, providing enough moisture to reach the root system. However, be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

To promote optimal growth and flowering, fertilize your wisteria annually in early spring. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This provides the

GARDENING necessary nutrients to support healthy foliage and abundant blooms.

Wisteria is a vigorous climber, so proper training is essential for creating a visually appealing display.

Gently tie and train young shoots to your chosen support structure, guiding them horizontally to encourage the development of flowering spurs along the stems. Regularly check for any tendrils or side shoots that need redirecting to maintain a neat growth pattern.

Although Wisteria is generally hardy, it can be susceptible aphids, caterpillars, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect your wisteria for signs of infestation or disease and take appropriate measures to control and treat them promptly.

Organic insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can be effective against pests, but the regular pruning sessions will help with good air circulation, which prevents disease.

If you’re starting from scratch it may take several years before your wisteria starts blooming profusely. Be patient and provide consistent care, and you will be rewarded with a stunning display of flowers in due course. Gardening is often the long-term rewards.

Happy gardening.

By Rachael Leverton

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINES

Independent, family run, Somerset based community magazine publishers since 2010.

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COMMUNITY

West Mendip Walkers August Walk Programme

Axbridge Church with a mix of new pieces and old favourites.

3rd August 8m circular walk starting 10:00am from North Curry TA3 6LH.

Free entry with a retiring collection. There will be an interval and you are welcome to bring your own refreshments.

10th August 7m circular walk starting 10:00am from Tyning’s Farm BS40 7XU. 17th August 10m circular walk starting 10:00am from Moorlinch Village Hall.

24th August 8m circular walk starting 10:00am from Ashcott Corner BA6 9SX.

Heritage Open Day at the Almshouses The Wells Almshouses will be opening their medieval buildings and gardens, not normally open to the public, for Heritage Open Day on Saturday 9th September from 11:00am to 4:00pm.

31st August 6m circular walk starting 10:00am from Croscombe Village Hall BA5 3RE. All details on www.mendipramblers.co.uk

Bristol Brass Consort - Allsorts of Sweet, Sweet Music They’re back! Come to Axbridge Church Sunday 27th August at 7:00pm to hear the group play a selection of classical and light brass music to get your teeth into!

The Consort have given an informal late summer concert in Axbridge for twenty years. We look forward to welcoming them again as they fill

Savouries and delicious cakes will be served and the Somerset Flutes will play in the chapel, a new event for 2023! We also hope to host the Simply Uke! Ukele band again this year CEO Martin Thomas said “We all enjoy the open days and we will be delighted to welcome visitors again during Heritage Open Day week.”

Entry is free.

Bathing a problem? We can help • Easy accessible wet room showering • Rapid bath out walk-in shower conversions • Back to a warm deep soak with a walk-in bath • Making bathing safer with simple changes;

Grab rails, shower seats, raised WCs & slip resistant safety flooring

• Council (DFG), SSAFA and charity grants quotes available

• Discounts for over 60s and ex-service personnel Call for our friendly advice, free survey and quote

FREE*

Mirrored cabinet or high raised toilet with any full bathroom installation

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01749 467136 info@ahminstallations.co.uk www.ahminstallations.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply.

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LOCALREACH

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PUZZLES

Across

Crossword

1 Longing, dream (4) 3 Cavernous (8) 9 Impartial (7) 10 Choose to participate (3,2) 11 Laziness (5) 12 Gambling establishment (6) 14 Hold in the mind (6) 16 Dried grape (6) 19 Fleet of warships (6) 21 Divine water (5) 24 Emblem, symbol (5) 25 Exclusive group (2,5) 26 Alone (8) 27 Enthralled (4)

Down

1 Attractive, clean-cut (8) 2 Dwarf planet (5) 4 Lawman (6) 5 Peeved (5) 6 Short excursions (7) 7 Balanced, rational (4) 8 Bowman (6) 13 Unlikely winner (8) 15 Relationship between man and wife (7) 17 Someone dependent on drugs (6) 18 Less difficult (6) 20 Concede (5) 22 Erroneous (5) 23 ____ Redding, soul singer (4)

Word Search

Mindbenders

Accelerator Air bag Alarm Battery Bonnet Boot Brake

Bumper Clutch Dipstick Door Engine Fan belt Fuel tank

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Gear stick Headlight Indicator Odometer Radiator Sat nav Spark plug

Speedometer Sunroof Tyre Wheel

Solutions: Turn to page 11

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LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

Are your stairs a struggle?

Enjoy independence in your home…

Do I need a Stairlift? – If you have difficulty getting up and down stairs you are not alone. The decision to install a stairlift is sometimes a difficult one to take but, when compared with the alternative of moving or living on only one level of their home, many people have found a stairlift to be their preferred solution.

Why choose us? – Suttons Stairlifts aim to provide a reliable and prompt service to their valued customers. Thanks to personal recommendations from satisfied customers referring us to their friends and relations Suttons Stairlifts is now a well-established company committed to providing expert advice with a no-pressure selling policy, guaranteed!

Our Products and Services – We offer a range of new or refurbished Handicare stairlifts for either straight or curved stairs throughout the West Country, from Bath & Bristol right down to South Devon. We also offer a rental option for straight stairlifts as well as annual services and safety checks, repairs and removals.

What happens next? – We will visit you to survey the staircase and conduct a user assessment leaving you the leaflets and prices so you can make the decision in your own time. Once you’ve made your decision we aim to install your lift within the week, or even the next day subject to availability.

With our comprehensive 12 or 24 month warranty and 365 day coverage you can be assured of a first-class and personal service from Suttons Stairlifts.

Call us on 01749 346 900 for more information.

STAIRLIFTS NEW from £1,645 RECONDITIONED from £995 RENTAL from £55 per month

01749 346 900

www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk

The Works, Shepton Mallet, Somerset. BA4 5DX www.localreach.co.uk | 9

LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

Are you buying the WRONG incontinence product?

It might seem like an odd question, but the vast majority of people we speak with are contacting Arelle because they are struggling to manage their incontinence – and that is usually the result of choosing the wrong incontinence product for their condition.

Anecdotal reports suggest that as many as 80% of adults experiencing incontinence are using the wrong products – and many people will try seven or more different products until they find one that works.

That’s not really a surprise to us – there are now so many products available to you, both online and on the high street, that the choice can be quite bewildering. And while it may be simpler and more convenient to pick up your products in your local supermarket, your choice is likely to be far more limited than with specialist retailers, and we are pretty sure that there will be no supermarket staff with the expert knowledge or experience to advise you on what your options are.

So what can you do to choose the RIGHT incontinence product?

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388 1. The right product for the right flow: Most people think “the more it absorbs the better” - but that’s not always the case! We can chat through all the different options with you.

2. Decide on the type of product which will suit you best: Pads or pants? You can try free samples when you contact us.

3. Washable v disposable: Washables are more environmentally friendly and ultimately will save you money.

4. Quality v economy: In all aspects, cheaper pads will not perform as well as quality products.

5. Fit and features: Consider using fixation or stretch pants to improve the performance of your product.

Advice: If you need advice about choosing the right incontinence product, please do get in touch.

It’s nothing to be embarrassed or concerned about – we would much rather you chat to us about purchasing the right product rather than you waste money and energy on buying something that simply isn’t right for you. Call us on 0800 389 3597 or email info@arelle.com

10% off when you sign up to our e-news!

High quality continence care products for men and women For advice, free samples and a brochure call 0800 389 3597 or visit www.arelle.com Based locally in Spaxton, Somerset for over 20 years 10 | www.localreach.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388

New Scottish Dancing Club in Wells

COMMUNITY

U3A Weston group would love to meet new members Self-help organisation for older people to join creative and leisure activities. Come to our coffee mornings, every Tuesday 10:00am to 11:15am at Friends Meeting House, High Street, Weston-super-Mare.

Dance into Autumn with our friendly Scottish Country Dancing Group. Lots to learn and lots of fun to be had as we begin a new term on September 14th.

Our classes are held on Thursday evenings from 6.30 to 8.30 at The Blue School Sports Centre, Wells. All ages (over 18) welcome. No experience necessary.

No partner needed. However, a reasonable level of mobility is required for this activity.

To learn more about Scottish Dancing or to register your interest in joining us, contact Ann on 01934 740065 or ann.wellsdancers@gmail.com

Puzzle Solutions

West Pennard Gardening Club We meet on first Wednesday of the month at 7.00pm in West Pennard Village Hall, BA6 8NL. We have informative speakers, and organise exciting trips.

We offer annual membership or pay at the door for individual meetings. There are refreshments and a raffle. New members always welcome.

For more details: www.westpennardvillagehall.co.uk/ gardeningclub or email: karenrussell53@icloud.com

LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES Are you a local, club, group, association, charity, school or church?

Would you like to publicise your, news, events and information to your community free of charge?

Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before 1st of each month. You can also upload a photo or logo. We will then publish in our LocalReach Community Magazines delivered by Royal Mail each month.

Your Community Notice will also appear on our Facebook pages.

Mindbender: 1: Between you and me 2: An inside job 3: No doubt about it

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

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LOCALREACH

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USE CODE:

‘SOM’ FOR 10%

OFF ONLINE*

Some r s e t

SKIP HIRE

Avon Material Supplies provides a full range of skip services to leading construction businesses, tradespeople, and the general public in Somerset.

• 6 & 8 yard skips • Same day delivery (Sta) • 2 week hire included

• Wait & load service • All waste types • Waste recycled

Order online 24/7 for your next project. *Offer is subject to T&Cs and is only valid on your first online order on www.avonmaterialsupplies.co.uk. For further details, please call 01749 830688

www.localreach.co.uk 12 | Visit: www.avonmaterialsupplies.co.uk

Call: 01749 830688

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LOCAL EXPERT PAGE RUH Will Month September 2023

Do you need a Will? Make or update your Will in September for a reduced fee

Have your

Make or up September and help us extraordina in Bath and

RUHX, the official NHS charity for the Royal United Hospitals Bath is offering everyone the chance to make or update their Will for a reduced fee, so that the charity can continue to provide extra extraordinary care for everyone in Bath and beyond.

£195 for a s £295 for a s

Today, more than 70% of the UK population don’t have an up-todate Will. No one wants to think about what will happen to our loved ones if we weren’t around, so it’s no surprise that the idea of making a Will is not top of most people’s ‘to do list’.

To find out email us at or call us o

In collaboration with RUH Will Month, solicitor firms across Bath, Somerset and Wiltshire are providing their professional services for free and donating the fee to our hospital in a bid to raise the importance of planning for the future.

RUHX Will 2023 128x92mm Press Ad PRINT.indd It is recommended that everyone over the age of 18 write a Will toMonth protect them from 1the uncertainties of the future. From getting married, having children, to becoming unwell, a Will can prove invaluable. It can also help minimise any inheritance tax potentially payable on your estate, as well as ensuring your assets are passed to your loved ones.

The costs for a professional Will writing service are £195 for a standard single Will, or £295 for a standard Joint Will.

RUH Will Month runs through the month of September and 100% of all the solicitor fees are donated to RUHX. Scan the QR code on the advert or visit www.ruhx.org.uk for more information, and to find a participating solicitor near you. Alternatively, please email Jan Witt, Relationship and Legacy Manager, jan.witt@nhs.net or call directly on Tel 01225 825819.

RUH Will Month September 2023

Have you made your Will?

Make or update your Will in September for a reduced fee and help us provide extra extraordinary care for everyone in Bath and beyond. £195 for a standard single Will £295 for a standard joint Will To find out more visit ruhx.org.uk email us at giftsinwills@ruhx.org.uk or call us on 01225 825819

Registered Charity No. 1058323

RUHX Will Month 2023 128x92mm Press Ad PRINT.indd 1

04/07/2023 14:01:58 | 13 www.localreach.co.uk

LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

Enjoying summer social events with hearing loss

By Simon Swindells, Director and Clinical Lead Audiologist at South West Hearing Care For most people, the recent warmer weather and the prospect of social events out in the sun, are a source of great excitement. However, for someone with hearing loss, such gatherings can be a source of real anxiety. This centres around not being able to join in or feeling silly if you mishear something and often leads to people choosing to isolate themselves rather than to put measures in place so that they can feel included.

Here are three areas of focus to ensure that you can feel comfortable in an outdoor gathering this summer: 1) Environment: Ensure you find a quiet, well-lit location to sit. You can limit background noise by sitting away from speakers if music is playing and by joining a smaller group of conversation if possible. Lighting is important too. If you sit in a place where you can clearly see the faces of people you are talking to, you will be able to lipread much more easily.

14 | www.localreach.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388 2) Social: Another way to make your environment more comfortable for you is to be open and honest with the people around you. Let them know that you are struggling so they can help you to feel more included. Small things such as introducing everyone when you arrive so you can call their attention or having a visual signal to let your friends know if you are struggling to hear without disrupting the conversation can change the scenario for you completely.

3) Hearing aids: The first and least taxing step is to wear hearing aids as this will make life so much easier for you. There can be an inner selfconsciousness surrounding wearing hearing aids because it draws attention to the problem, but what will draw even more attention is the more visible struggle you will have if you don’t use them.

Hearing aids today are technological marvels and have brilliant features to help aid with speech recognition and background noise. If you haven’t already, the first step would be to speak to your local Audiologist about suitable options.

To book a hearing test appointment with Simon at his clinics in either Street or Westbury, please call 01458 555533 (Street) / 01373 823076 (Westbury) or visit www.swhearingcare.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388

LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

Introducing the Shoemakers Museum – the story of Clarks We are thrilled to announce the opening of an exhibition at the Grange in Street introducing the Shoemakers Museum - the story of Clarks, a captivating new museum set to open its doors in 2025, just in time for the momentous 200th year anniversary of the founding of Clarks shoe company. Located in the charming village of Street, the birthplace of Clarks, this museum will offer visitors a unique and immersive journey through the remarkable history of one of the world’s most renowned shoe manufacturers.

The Shoemakers Museum will boast four exceptional galleries designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages. Each gallery explores different facets of the Clarks legacy, delving into captivating narratives that celebrate the family and community stories behind the creation of these iconic shoes and their impact as a global shoe manufacturer.

Beyond the immersive galleries, visitors will have access to a well-curated shop, a delightful café, and stunning gardens, all of which will be free to enter and explore at their leisure.

Furthermore, we are proud to introduce an engaging schools and education programme, specifically designed to captivate learners of all ages.

To celebrate the imminent arrival of the Shoemakers Museum, we are delighted to invite the public to our free exhibition, providing an exclusive sneak peek into the museum’s development.

Rosie Martin, the Director of the Alfred Gillett Trust, the organisation behind the museum, said “We eagerly anticipate the gathering of a diverse range of views, as we seek to create an experience that will delight and engage visitors from around the world. You are guaranteed a warm welcome and a chance to influence the museum’s development.”

The exhibition is open from 10am on Wednesday 12 July and members of the public are welcome to drop in at any time to chat to a member of the museum team, or just browse the exhibition and leave your thoughts on a card. The exhibition will be open every Wednesday and Thursday from 10am until 4pm (and other times as advertised). The Grange can be accessed via car park two for Clarks Village off the A39.

NEW MUSEUM IN STREET

Opening by 2025, the new museum will reveal Clarks’ shoemaking heritage in the village where it all began

alfredgilletttrust.org

FREE EXHIBITION OPENS JULY 2023

fb.com/agtsomerset @alfredgilletttrust

FIND OUT MORE

ALFRED GILLETT TRUST

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BOOK REVIEWS

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A Good Read

A Long Way from Home

Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car

This compelling novel set in 1950s Australia, follows the lives of three central characters who embark on an eventful journey together.

Our children’s book this month also centres around a car journey. Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car is an old book, though I’d never heard of it until my son was given a copy on his first birthday. It’s one of those timeless, charming works that is destined to be loved forever. Mr. Gumpy decides to take a ride in his car. As he sets out on his journey he comes across different animals who all ask to join him. They are the Rabbit, the Cat, the Dog, the Pig, the Sheep, the Chickens, the Calf, the Goat, and the Children. Mr. Gumpy greets them all patiently and cheerfully, though they prove to be quite a rowdy bunch of passengers. When they reach a tricky hill Mr. Gumpy asks for a volunteer to help push the car, but everyone has an excuse as to why they can’t do it, then it starts to rain, and the car becomes stuck. The passengers eventually realise that if they don’t pull together (or rather push together) they will never get home.

by Peter Carey

Irene Bobs, a strong-willed and determined woman, dreams of winning the legendary Redex Trial, a gruelling endurance race that circumnavigates Australia. Her husband, Titch Bobs, is a car salesman with a passion for racing and an unresolved past. Willie Bachhuber is their troubled and brilliant navigator with an intimate knowledge of maps and an unconventional perspective on life.

As the trio sets off on their ambitious endeavour, they encounter all manner of challenges which brings them into direct contact with the racial tensions of the time. Australia’s indigenous population faces discrimination and marginalization, and each character is forced to confront their own biases and prejudices during their voyage.

Relationships gradually become strained and alliances shift, as long-hidden secrets and insecurities bubble to the surface.

As the race progresses, the characters’ personal journeys intertwine with the larger narrative of a nation struggling to find its identity. Carey uses The Redex Trial as a metaphorical representation of Australia’s cultural and social landscape, mirroring the country’s quest for a unified identity in the face of its diverse heritage. He weaves together themes of identity, belonging and the legacy of colonialism in a thought-provoking novel from which all three characters emerge changed forever.

16 | www.localreach.co.uk

by John Burningham

The story is deceptively simple and satisfying, which adds to its appeal. Burningham was known for his illustrations, and they are absolutely beautiful. The combination of earthy colours and whimsical characters make the images warm and inviting, and his use of crosshatching adds movement and life to the story. You can see the animals and children jostling for position in the car.

The book’s message about the importance of staying calm and working together to overcome adversity is a positive one, endearingly told.

By Tash Donovan

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388

LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

Indoor vs outdoor glasses?

You might have heard the term outdoor glasses? Maybe indoor? Perhaps occupational, or office glasses? What are all of these, and why would you need more, than one pair? Is this just a money-making trick? This month I’ll explain what we mean by outdoor glasses.

Naturally, being outdoors, we think about sunglasses as a form of eye protection. Sunglasses vary in a wide range of colours and quality.

Most sunglasses will have UV400 protection which conform the British Standards requirement.

The depth of tint is categorised from 0-4, 0 being very light tint (eg for fashion), 4 being very dark (eg for snow activities), whilst 3 the most common category for casual sunglasses.

Polarised sunglasses are another option. They include a polarising filter, which reduces glare, increases comfort and clarity of vision.

Maui Jim are market leaders in polarised technology and use rare-earth elements to enhance colour. Eyetech are proud stockists of Maui Jim sunglasses both in prescription, and nonprescription form.

But what if a pair of ordinary sunglasses isn’t all you need? If you have a particular hobby or sport, that requires special eyewear, there is a solution.

The most popular outdoors hobby is cycling (and motorbiking), both on road and terrain. These sportspeople are sure to wear a helmet, which makes it difficult to wear ordinary glasses or sunglasses underneath. Your optician will be able to advise on wrapped frames, suitable prescription lenses, and of course, suitable tint colour for your needs.

Over the years, Eyetech has supplied its clients with cycling, biking, running, golfing, skiing, swimming, shooting, even diving eyewear.

Whatever your hobby… We have a solution. (Or we’re not afraid to ask.)

Read next month’s article for indoor spectacle solutions.

WE OFFER: TIME FOR YOU TO TALK WHILST WE LISTEN. RELAXED FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE. PROFESSIONAL ADVICE EXPLAINED SIMPLY. SUPERB RANGE OF QUALITY AND INDIVIDUAL FRAMES.

Eva Dispensing Optician

THE MOST ADVANCED OPTICAL LENSES FROM ALL MANUFACTURERS.

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LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

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Three Top Summer Kitchen Tips from Dean Sheppard, OvenGleamers 1. Tear basil rather than cutting it?

Chefs often say that you must tear basil, rather than cut it with a knife, to get the best flavour.

Nope. The flavours in basil are primarily contained within the cells of the leaf. If you tear it, it tends to come apart between the cells but if you cut the leaf, you will break open the cells releasing the flavour. This makes the most difference when you are using the basil raw, eg, in a tomato salad.

Best to wash the basil, pat dry with paper towels, and remove the leaves from the stem. Stack several leaves together and roll into a cylinder, then cut crossways into thin strips.

2. Should I use foil on the base of my oven?

Many people line their grill pan or the bottom of the oven with aluminum foil to keep their cookers cleaner. This becomes heavily coated in grease and smells revolting! But it actually damages the enamel in the grill pan and on the base of the oven. The foil creates a superheating effect by reflecting the heat back onto the base of the oven or grill pan which then causes enamel damage. I recommend using an oven liner made from PTFE with a non-stick coating. This will catch any food drips keeping the bottom of the oven/grill pan clean. Remember to take the oven liner out regularly and wash it in warm soapy water.

3. “Hot pan - cold oil - prevents sticking” Is this mantra really the best way to prevent food from sticking to the pan when sautéing or stirfrying. The idea is that you heat up the pan first then add the cold oil and almost immediately add the food and that will stop it sticking. What you really want is a “hot pan, hot oil”. When you add cold oil, it heats up almost instantly when added to the hot pan – giving you “hot pan, hot oil”.

You get the same results if you heat the oil along with the pan so take your pick – they both work!

Dean Sheppard is your local OvenGleamer and can be contacted on 01749 705059 or go to www.ovengleamers.com for more details.

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RECIPE

Courgette Frittata Courgettes are plentiful now so use some in this super easy brunch recipe In a separate bowl beat the eggs and season well with salt and pepper. This dish does benefit from being well seasoned.

If your pan is ovenproof pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables then crumble the cheese over the top. If you don’t have a pan that can be placed directly in the oven, transfer the veg to a casserole dish then pour the eggs and crumbled cheese over.

Bake for about 25 minutes until the frittata is set in the middle and slightly golden on top. Take care not to overcook it, or it will become rubbery in texture. It should look puffy, golden, and have a slight wobble when you move the pan.

Let it cool for 5 minutes then slice into 8 pieces. The cooled frittata will keep in an airtight container for a couple of days. Eat it cold or reheat in the microwave on a low setting for 30 seconds.

Serves: 8 Preparation time: 15 mins

Note: This is a very adaptable recipe. You can use any cooked vegetables and cheese combination.

Cooking time: 25 mins Ingredients: 2 courgettes, sliced.

1 red onion, diced.

1 garlic clove, finely chopped.

6 medium or large eggs 3 ripe tomatoes 1tbsp olive oil salt and black pepper to season 50g crumbled feta (or your favourite cheese) Method: Preheat the oven to 180C / Fan 160C Gas mark 4.

Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof pan if you have one or an ordinary frying pan if not, over medium heat, and add the onion, garlic, and courgettes.

Sauté for 4-5 minutes until lightly brown.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

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LOCAL BUSINESS A – Z

Summer Skills to Get Kids Outside Summer is the perfect time to encourage kids to step away from their screens and engage in outdoor activities that are both fun and educational. Here are some of our favourites.

Juggling - This is a fantastic skill that promotes hand-eye coordination, concentration, and perseverance. Start with basic juggling techniques using soft balls or beanbags. As they progress, they can try juggling with more objects or learn tricks. Juggling a great physical activity, which boosts cognitive skills and focus.

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Local Business A – Z BATHROOMS

Bathing a problem?

We can help • Easy accessible wet room showering

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Skipping - A classic outdoor activity that provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while improving coordination and balance. Start with basic jumps and gradually progress to more complex techniques like crisscross, doubleunders, or even group skipping routines. Skipping can also be done with friends, making it a social activity.

Flower Pressing – Pressing flowers is a wonderful way for kids to engage with nature and their creativity. Encourage them to explore their surroundings, identify different flowers and plants, and collect specimens for pressing. Pressed flowers can be used for various crafts such as making greeting cards, or artwork.

Roller-skating - This is a fun and active outdoor activity that challenges balance and coordination and develops leg strength. Kids can learn to roller skate in a safe environment like a local skate park or a designated skating area. Once they get the hang of it, they can branch out to skills like skating backward, executing turns, or even trying some simple tricks. Roller skating provides an exciting way to stay active while enjoying the summer weather.

Identifying Insects - Encourage your mini entomologist by teaching kids how to identify common insects. Provide them with a guidebook or use online resources to help them recognize different species. Kids can go on nature walks or explore their gardens to spot insects, learn about their habitats, and observe their behaviours.

This activity is great for promoting curiosity, environmental awareness, and an understanding of the vital role insects play in our ecosystem.

By Tom Hancock

20 | www.localreach.co.uk

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