LocalReach Shepton Mallet March 2024 by localcm

LOCALREACH SHEPTON MALLET – BA4

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Mar 24 No. 09

GARDENING – page 5 COMMUNITY – page 7 PUZZLES – page 8 KIDS – page 12

RECIPE – page 15 BOOKS – page 16 BUSINESS A-Z – page 20

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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 Anderson

SOFFITS

DOWNSPOUTS

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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!

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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 27th Feb for the April issues

For Business Advertising call 01749 600388 or email hello@localreach.co.uk Deadline is 27th Feb for the April 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 2024.

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 8,944 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

Tips to Getting Your Property Sold If you are struggling to sell your home and want to check you are getting the best exposure, have a quick read through my suggestions below and make sure you tick every box. With over 90% of buyers starting their search on-line, make sure your home is listed on both Rightmove and Zoopla portals, with Rightmove boasting 2.3 billion visits to their website in 2022. And don’t just settle for a standard listing, get your Agent to include a Premium listing in their offer (Rightmove Premium listings get 20% more enquiries, with a whopping 50% more on Zoopla). Are you happy with your photographs? Professionally staged photos that are carefully edited have been shown to generate 61% more page views, so ensure your home is shown in the best possible light. Also seasonal decorations can date a listing so if they have sneaked into a photo ask your Agent to edit them out. Make sure you have both 2D and 3D floorplans as statistics prove that people like them. Check to make sure your Agent is open at the weekends and able to take enquiries during the evenings too. Buyers are busy people and often search on-line out of the standard ‘9 to 5’ office hours so the more time your Agent is open for business, the more interest you’ll get. Guided accompanied viewings with people who know and care about your property is important, as many questions can be answered immediately and you can get instant viewer feedback. Using staff that have never visited your home before just because they are free, doesn’t engage the buyer or show that your Agent is passionate about selling your home. And finally make sure communication is top notch so that you are kept up-to-date with portal activity and clicks, feedback on viewings, performance reports, updates and advice.

Thinking Of Selling Your Home In 2024? Read This FREE Book First!

EweMove offer all of the above with every property we take on and we put you 1st with our Happy Sale Guarantee, meaning that if you are not 100% happy you can walk away anytime pre-sale without paying a penny. For lots of extra tips to selling your home, why not contact me to get your FREE book ‘The 39 Steps to Avoid a House Sale Nightmare’. Ring me on 01749 600339 anytime day or night, email sheptonmallet@ewemove.com, or use the QR link below.

Thinking SellingYour Thinking Of Of Selling Your Home In Home 2024?In 2024? ReadFREE This FREE Book Read This Book First! First! Anne Flintham Branch Director

Discover the simple tips and tricks that Estate Agents use to sell houses like:

Step 1: The best time to sell your home. Step 5: Should you pay for home staging? Step 7: How to maximise the value of your home.

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Normally £9.95 on Discover the simple tips and tricks that Estate Agents use to sell houses like: Step 1: The best time to sell your home. Step 5: Should you pay for home staging? Step 7: How to maximise the value of your home. Anne Flintham Branch Director

Visit www.EweMove.com/Sheptonmallet Visit www.EweMove.com/Wells or or scan the QR code to get your FREE copy! Scan Me

scan the QR code to get your FREE copy! Scan Me

EweMove respects any existing sole agency agreement already in place with another agent.

Anne Flintham Branch Director

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EweMove respects any existing sole agency agreement already in place with another agent.

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Garden View

This month - fertiliser

GARDENING There are other macro-nutrients: Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen, which plants obtain freely from the air and water; and calcium, magnesium, and sulphur, which should be present in any good general-purpose fertiliser. Plants also need micro-nutrients: Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Boron, and Molybdenum. Plants take all these nutrients and build everything they need from scratch, including vitamins. What plants cannot do is absorb vitamins directly from things such as pet food, milk or so-called fertilisers which contain vitamins, proteins, and fats. So don’t be intimidated by fertiliser. Decide what your plants need then read the label. It’s easy as ABC..or rather NPK.

This month the days get longer, and the sun gets stronger...we hope! However, March is famously temperamental and if the soil where you are is still wet and cold then it’s wise to delay planting and sowing until the temperature rises. Plant nutrient reserves are low at this time of year so, as the soil warms up, it’s time to think about fertiliser. Many gardeners are a bit frightened of fertiliser. All those chemical symbols on the side of the packet are rather reminiscent of school chemistry lessons. In fact, the basics are quite simple. NPK - This can be observed on the side of most fertiliser packages. The letters stand for: N - Nitrogen P - Phosphorous K - Potassium Together these are known as the macro-nutrients and each of them has its own use. Nitrogen primarily feeds the leafy above-theground parts of the plants. Phosphorous promotes strong roots. Potassium makes grass hardier, promotes germination and improves vegetable and fruit yields. The proportions of each macro-nutrient will be printed on the packet. Equal amounts of each nutrient make for a good general-purpose fertiliser. A lawn will need a good balance of nitrogen and phosphorus to guarantee lush green grass with a healthy root system capable of withstanding dry spells. Fruiting plants need higher proportions of potassium.

Caution! Don’t over-do it! It’s best to feed little and often. Don’t fertilise in direct sun or the leaves may scorch. Wait until the soil has warmed. Keep out of reach of children!. By Rachael Leverton

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.

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LOCALREACH

Chocolate Eggs A History of Easter’s Delectable Delights

The association of chocolate eggs with Easter is a delightful convergence of cultural, religious, and culinary histories. Spanning centuries and continents, the story of how chocolate eggs became synonymous with Easter reveals a fascinating blend of tradition, innovation, and symbolism. The egg has long been a symbol of new life and rebirth, a sentiment shared by many cultures and religions. In ancient times, eggs were

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often decorated in bright colours and given as gifts during spring festivals to celebrate the end of winter and the arrival of new life. This practice was adopted by early Christians as a symbol of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, which is commemorated during Easter. The hard shell of the egg represented the sealed Tomb of Christ, and cracking the egg symbolized his resurrection from the dead. In medieval Europe, the Christian observance of Lent, the forty days leading up to Easter, involved strict fasting rules. One such rule prohibited the consumption of eggs. However, chickens (who don’t understand about Lent) continued to lay eggs during this period, leading to an excess by the time Easter arrived. This surplus led to the tradition of boiling eggs to preserve them, which were then decorated and given as Easter gifts. The transition from real eggs to edible confectionery eggs began in the 17th and 18th centuries. Initially, these were not made of chocolate but of sugar or marzipan. The earliest chocolate eggs were solid, and a luxury item, enjoyed primarily by the wealthy due to the high cost of chocolate at the time. The Industrial Revolution brought significant advancements in chocolate production. The invention of the chocolate press in the 1820s by Conrad Van Houten helped in extracting cocoa butter from roasted cocoa beans. This process made chocolate more affordable and easier to mould into shapes, paving the way for the hollow chocolate egg. In the 19th century, companies like J.S. Fry & Sons in Britain began mass-producing chocolate eggs. John Cadbury followed suit in 1875, perfecting the art of the hollow egg and bringing it to a wider market. The Cadbury Easter egg was a gamechanger, transforming the chocolate egg from a luxury to a popular treat accessible to the general public. The history of chocolate eggs at Easter is a rich tapestry that weaves together religious tradition, culinary innovation, and cultural celebration. From ancient symbolisms of new life and rebirth to the modern-day delights of Easter egg hunts and chocolate treats, the chocolate egg has become an enduring and beloved symbol of Easter celebrations around the world, enjoyed by all ages. By Gemma Brown

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Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch – Annual General Meeting RAFA MSB 2024 Annual General Meeting is on Monday 4th March at 11:00am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. It will include a Pictorial Presentation on 2023 activities, the normal AGM Agenda, Branch Objectives for 2024 and the 2024 Programme. The AGM will conclude with a Pub Lunch and drinks. The Branch covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas and all Branch Members are encouraged to attend. Contact Secretary 01458 224057 or e-mail rafa. midsomerset@gmail.com for further information.

Retired? Learn, laugh, live with Shepton Mallet u3a We are a lively, friendly group of people no longer working full time, living in and around Shepton Mallet.

COMMUNITY

Shower, walk-in bath, or wet room? We can help you decide Choosing a new bathroom involves understanding your bathing needs. There are a variety of options to consider when deciding. One option is to replace your bath with a low-level shower, this is suited to those with limited mobility. Slip-resistant shower trays are available in various sizes, and accessories like shower seats. Some people still prefer having a bath to a shower so this is when we would recommend a walk-in bath. These are available in various sizes and come with moulded seats and quick fill. The third option is a wet room which eliminates obstacles with slip-resistant flooring and a central drain, making them ideal for wheelchair users and caregivers. It can be overwhelming knowing which solution to choose but at AHM Installations, we have a friendly team of home surveyors who will visit you at home to discuss your bathing needs. We provide FREE quotations and visuals of how your new bathroom could look. To find out more call 01749 987521.

We do all sorts of things like walking, chatting, table tennis, knitting, reading, painting, trips, drinking coffee together, playing skittles etc and we have a monthly speaker meeting. The next one, open to all, is on Thursday 7th March, 10:00am - 12:00pm at the Salvation Army hall, near the Shrubbery Hotel. The topic this time is Fraud and Scams. Come and see us!

Globe Carnival Club Easter Bingos Please come to our Easter Bingos. Lots of Prizes to be won and £100 jackpot.

AHM is rated Excellent by our customers

Walk-in Shower or Wetroom? We can help you decide • Specialists in accessible bathing • Free home visits and quotations • Full design and installation service • Walk-in showers. walk-in baths and wetrooms

• Over 24 years experience • Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot • Discounts for ex-military personnel

01749 329 011

Tuesday 19th March at Wells Football Club and Monday 25th March at Croscombe Village Hall. Doors open 6:45pm. Eyes down 7:30pm for both. Refreshments available. We look forward to seeing you all.

For a FREE quote call

01749 987521

Visit our website to see real customer bathrooms www.ahminstallations.co.uk

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PUZZLES

Across

Crossword

1 Boundary trim (6) 5 Pour out (6) 8 Bitter-leafed salad vegetable (6) 9 Rod (6) 10 Historical time period (3) 11 Mild, pleasant weather (5) 13 Colourless, flammable, oily liquid (8) 15 Languish, idle (8) 16 Hit hard with hand (5) 19 Neither liquid nor solid (3) 21 Bring back to life (6) 22 Boiler, furnace (6) 23 Avenue, boulevard (6) 24 Caged, imprisoned (6)

Down

2 Bibbed trousers (9) 3 Turn of phrase (5) 4 Delight (4) 5 Clash, contradict (8) 6 Explain (7) 7 Assignment (4) 12 Watch or clock (9) 13 Loud resonant and mournful (8) 14 Cold-blooded vertebrate (7) 17 Acquire information (5) 18 Weaponry (4) 20 Send, transport (4)

Word Search

Mindbenders

aurora beam blaze candle chandelier dawn electricity

gleam glow halogen bulb headlight lamp lantern laser

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match moon neon star strobe sunrise sunshine

taper torch voltage watts

Solutions: Turn to page 15

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LOCALREACH

Spring Cleaning

A Guide to Efficient and Effective Cleaning Spring cleaning is an annual ritual that not only signifies the end of winter but also heralds a fresh, clean start for your home. While the task may seem daunting, with the right approach, it can be both efficient and enjoyable. Planning: The most effective spring cleaning begins with a plan. Before diving in, make a list of all the areas in your home that need attention. This list should be comprehensive, covering everything from the attic to the basement, including often-neglected spaces like the tops of cabinets and under the beds. Break down the tasks into manageable sections and assign them to specific days. This approach ensures that the work is spread out, making it less overwhelming. Decluttering: A crucial step in spring cleaning is simplifying your space. A cluttered home complicates cleaning and adds to your stress. Start by sorting through your belongings and categorize them into items to keep, donate, or discard. A good rule of thumb is to get rid of anything you haven’t used in the past year. This process not only clears physical space but also creates a more peaceful and enjoyable living environment. Deep Cleaning: Spring cleaning is the time to engage in deep cleaning – tasks that go beyond your regular cleaning routine. This includes washing windows, cleaning carpets, and dusting hard-to-reach areas. Consider moving furniture to clean the areas beneath and behind them. These tasks require more time and effort but are essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. Organizing: After cleaning and decluttering, focus on organizing your space. Use storage solutions like shelves, boxes, and baskets to keep your belongings orderly. Proper organization not only enhances the appearance of your home but also makes it easier to maintain cleanliness. Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Protect your health and the environment by Incorporating eco-friendly cleaning products into your routine. Natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon

juice are effective, safe, and environmentally friendly. These solutions not only clean effectively but also reduce the levels of toxic substances in your home. Be systematic: A methodical approach ensures that no area is overlooked. Start in one room and don’t move to the next until you have completed all the tasks on your list for that space. This approach provides a sense of accomplishment and keeps you motivated too. Maintenance: Post-spring cleaning, it’s important to maintain the cleanliness and organization of your home. Develop a regular cleaning schedule and stick to it. Regular maintenance will make spring cleaning next year much easier by preventing the accumulation of dirt and clutter. Embrace the Benefits: Spring cleaning is more than a seasonal chore; it’s an opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your living space, creating a more pleasant and healthy environment for you and your family! By Sarah Davey

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COMMUNITY

Shepton Mallet carnival Committee Annual General Meeting Monday 15th April The Committee are holding their AGM Monday 15th April 7:30pm at the Mid Somerset Showground meeting room, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, BA4 4GF. The Committee are looking for more members, to help with the build-up before and during carnival night to ensure a safe evening. The Illuminated Carnivals are a Somerset tradition that families have loved for a long time. Please help us keep this Somerset tradition alive for all to enjoy. If you are interested in helping or joining the committee please come along. www.sheptonmalletcarnival.org.uk. More info 07879471443.

The Textile Set The Textile Set present a retrospective exhibition of art quilts, embroidery and felted textiles ‘Looking Back’, 20th to 28th April, 10:00am to 4:00pm. The Market House, Market Place, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7AH. Free entry, disabled access, free parking in the town. Tea and coffee, gift sales table and haberdashery sales.

West Huntspill Players April Production West Huntspill Players are pleased to announce their spring production “Cash on Delivery” a

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388 riotous farce, with rib-tickling hilarity throughout, and a cast of wonderful characters. The production will run at the Balliol Hall, West Huntspill, TA9 3RN, for 4 nights from Wednesday 24th until Saturday 27th of April, inclusive, with curtain-up at 7:45pm each night. Doors open at 7:00pm. Tickets are £10. Please book your tickets via our Website www.westhuntspillplayers.org.uk – follow the dedicated link to the Ticket Source Website.

Keep well at home with Age UK Somerset Keeping active is vital for our health and wellbeing. If for any reason you can’t get out, there’s no need to miss out on your favourite exercise class- you can join in from the comfort of your own home with Age UK Somerset’s online classes. Specially designed for people over 55, you can join Tai Chi and Pilates. Pilates - Mondays at 10:00am, £5. Tai Chi QiGong - Tuesdays at 11:30am, £4. Find out more here: www.ageuksomerset.org. uk/onlineexercisesessions Call 01823 345626 or email ageingwell@ ageuksomerset.org.uk for more information.

We are friendly, welcoming, enthusiastic gardeners. Come and join us 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

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LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

Can pelvic ﬂoor exercises help treat incontinence? You might already be aware of pelvic floor exercises, also known as kegel exercises. Women are frequently recommended them after giving birth, and men after prostate surgery. But did you know pelvic floor exercise can really help with incontinence? This is because these exercises strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which support your bladder. When these muscles are stronger, you’re less likely to have leaks. If these muscles are weak, you can’t control your bladder quite so well. So what are they and how do you do them? They’re very simple. It’s easiest to start the exercises lying down or in a sitting position, and then as you get stronger you can do them standing up. Pretend you’re trying to stop the flow of urine. Pull in and squeeze those muscles. Hold the squeeze for 5 to 10 seconds, then rest for 5 to 10 seconds. Don’t hold your breath or tighten your tummy, bottom or thigh muscles at the same time – keep these muscles as relaxed as possible, and keep breathing! Once you’ve mastered this technique, try for three or four sets of 10 contractions every day. You should feel the impact in the lower pelvic area - but if you’re in any doubt about your technique, contact a healthcare professional for advice. The really great thing about these exercises is that as well as strengthening your pelvic floor, you can do them anytime, anywhere. When you’re watching tv, sitting at a desk, driving a car – noone will ever notice! And when performed daily, similar to any other form of muscle exercise, you should feel the improvements in a few weeks. While not all incontinence problems can be improved using pelvic floor exercises, it’s definitely worth considering. However if you are in any doubt about your condition, as always, we recommend you discuss this with a healthcare professional. And if you need help with products for your incontinence, don’t forget we offer a wide range of washable and disposable incontinence pants and pads, bed and seat protection and much more. Call Arelle free on 0800 389 3597.

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

High quality incontinence care products for men and women For advice, free samples and a brochure call 0800 389 3597 or visit www.arelle.com www.localreach.co.uk | 11

KIDS’ PAGE

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LOCALREACH

Tame the Tech!

How to declutter and organise your electronics Organize stored gadgets by category and store them in designated zones, preferably with their original boxes and accessories. This organization makes it easier to locate specific devices when needed. Periodically search for gadgets to purge, checking under TVs, in nightstands, and kitchen cupboards. Decluttering frees up space and makes it easier to access frequently used items. Identify gadgets and accessories you no longer use and sell, donate, or dispose of them responsibly. Remember, gadgets depreciate over time, so it’s best to pass them on while they still hold some value. Keeping up with the latest gadgets can result in cable clutter and drawers full of unused devices. Use our simple guide to help you tidy up your tech, categorize your cables, and purge outdated gadgets. Every home has one…a box or drawer full of random cables. Many of us are so terrified of throwing out any cable that we even transport this tangled mess with us when we move house! It’s time to accept that you’ll probably never use your old Nokia charger or the cable from a long-gone printer. First consolidate. Organize your cables by type. This allows you to see how many of each you have. Keep three or four of each maximum. Neatly coil them and secure with cable ties or rubber bands. Use labelled containers for easy identification and storage – anything from takeout containers to Ziploc bags will work. There will be at least two or three unidentifiable cables so apply the rule: if you don’t know what it is, discard it. Label the remaining ones for easy identification later. Gadgets often come with boxes containing accessories and manuals. If space allows, keep these original boxes as they increase the gadget’s resale value and make life easier for the next owner. If you are tight for space, store contents in smaller labelled containers. Photograph the box and any important codes for easy reference later. Before discarding any gadget back up any important data and wipe the device. This means both deleting data and cleaning the gadget. Factory reset the device and remove it from associated apps. This step not only protects your privacy but also simplifies future handovers.

By following these steps, you can organize your technology, manage cables, and get rid of unnecessary gadgets. This process not only declutters your space but also ensures that your tech collection remains up-to-date and manageable. Responsible disposal of electronics is also key, as many devices can be sold, refurbished, or donated, extending their life and usefulness.! By Tom Hancock

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LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

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Key signs that you may need a hearing test By Simon Swindells, Director and Clinical Lead Audiologist at South West Hearing Care

Hearing loss generally develops slowly over many years and the effects become apparent only gradually. It can be quite easy for someone with hearing loss to not realise what sounds they are missing out on, or to find ways of adapting to compensate for what they are missing. However, ignoring hearing loss can contribute to a variety of cognitive issues including dementia. Moreover, it reduces your overall quality of life as it is more difficult to interact with the world around you. There are many other warning signs that all point to this common problem. If you or someone you know exhibits any of the following signs, it may be time to book a hearing test. Some signs to look out for: • Finding it difficult to follow conversations, especially in a social group situation. Hearing only fragments of conversations can cause you to feel isolated, and as such, you’re likely to sit back and not participate as actively in a conversation. • Feeling tired after listening in challenging environments. Participating in a conversation with multiple speakers or trying to hear something in a noisy environment can be mentally exhausting when you have a hearing loss. • Other people seem to mumble. Often those with

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hearing loss believe that those around them are mumbling or not speaking clearly enough, rather than acknowledging that it is their hearing loss that is causing the issue. • Often needing to turn up the volume of your television. The volume of your television is a good visual of the start of a hearing loss: the more your hearing levels decrease, the more you need to increase the volume of the television. Also those around you may complain that the television is too noisy, while for you it is the perfect volume. What’s the next step? You regularly make appointments to visit our dentist and optician, so why should your hearing care be any different? By prioritising your hearing health, you can catch hearing loss before it develops to a significant level that will make it harder to treat. If you’d like to speak myself or the team for further advice or to book a free hearing assessment, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Street: 01458 555533 | 7 The Bayliss Centre, High Street, Street Westbury: 01373 823076 | 2 High Street, Westbury www.swhearingcare.co.uk

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RECIPE

Guinness Chocolate Puddings Perfect for St Patrick’s Day on 17th March Method: Butter four 9 x 5cm ramekins. Place the butter, chocolate and a generous pinch of salt into a heatproof bowl. Set over a small pan of barely-simmering water and stir until melted, then remove from the heat and leave to cool a little. Preparation time: 25 mins Cooking time: 18 mins Add 1 hr chilling time. Serves: 4 Ingredients: 150g unsalted butter, plus extra for the ramekins 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), roughly chopped. 90g golden caster sugar 3 large eggs 90ml Guinness Good quality vanilla, chocolate or salted caramel ice cream to serve.

LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES

Place the sugar and eggs into a large mixing bowl and beat with an electric whisk until pale, doubled in volume and thick enough to leave a trail. Gently fold in the melted chocolate and the Guinness. Spoon the mixture into the ramekins, then chill in the fridge for 1 hr. In the meantime, place a baking tray on the top shelf of the oven and preheat to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Place the chilled ramekins on the hot baking tray and bake for 18 mins. Remove from the oven and leave to stand for a minute. The centres will sink a little. Pop a scoop of ice cream into the hollow and serve. Happy St. Patrick’s Day.

Puzzle Solutions

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.

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

Mindbender: 1: Between you and me 2: Get your act together 3: Hang in there

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BOOK REVIEWS

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A Good Read

Bitter

by Francesca Jakobi Bitter is Francesca Jakobi’s astonishing first novel. It is a captivating exploration of complex family dynamics, narrated with a poignant blend of humour and melancholy. The novel unfolds through the eyes of Gilda, a twice-divorced, middle-aged woman grappling with the recent marriage of her only child, Reuben. While Gilda is depicted as an overbearing Jewish mother, the portrayal is never cliched, but rather deeply nuanced, blending past and present to create a relatable and poignant character. Jakobi’s short chapters drives the narrative forward at a compelling pace. The book’s heart lies in its exploration of Gilda’s troubled relationship with her son and her escalating jealousy towards his new wife. This personal drama is skilfully balanced with moments of dry humour, often through Gilda’s humorous reflections, a testament to Jakobi’s ability to weave lightness into the fabric of a fundamentally sombre story. The novel’s title, ‘Bitter,’ is a play on the German word for ‘please.’ The novel delves into Gilda’s backstory, as a displaced and isolated German girl attending an English boarding school during the 1930s. While Bitter flirts with the conventions of a psychological thriller, with Gilda’s near-obsessive behaviour towards her daughter-in-law, creating moments of intense suspense, at its core is a story of love, kindness, and lasting friendship. Jakobi unsettles us at the same time as making us laugh out loud at Gilda’s exploits, but her real skill is in making us somehow love this out-of-control Jewish mother and in doing so, encouraging against our better judgment to side with Gilda! A thoroughly engaging read.

16 | www.localreach.co.uk

Hey Grandude!

by Paul McCartney and illustrated by Kathryn Durst This is a delightful and imaginative children’s book by singer songwriter Paul McCartney, which takes young readers on an enchanting adventure alongside a charming and unconventional grandfather, presumably not unlike Mr. McCartney himself! The book’s title is a playful nod to McCartney’s Beatles fame, and sets the tone for a whimsical tale. Grandude, is a cool, intrepid explorer with a magical compass, inviting his four grandchildren – or “Chillers” as he affectionately calls them – on extraordinary journeys. The narrative is simple and ideal for young children, making for a fun bedtime story. McCartney’s storytelling is full of joy and wonder, making it evident that it’s penned by a grandfather who enjoyed entertaining his own grandchildren. Kathryn Durst’s vibrant and detailed artwork brings the story to life adding layers of visual delight and energy to capture the excitement and magic of Grandude’s adventures, from stormy seas to sandy deserts. The synergy between McCartney’s charming narrative and Durst’s lively illustrations makes for an engaging read. Grandude is a story that celebrates the beautiful bond between grandparents and grandchildren, encouraging both generations to embark of adventures and explore the wonders the world has to offer. By Tash Donovan

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LOCAL EXPERT PAGE

Biometric glasses? In our ever-changing, fast-paced world, we are forever offered the best technological advances, which are all produced for our comfort and convenience. You don’t have to be a Gen Z to be able to pay with your phone or watch, to use the latest VR gadgets or use biometrics, such as fingerprint or face ID for a range of services. To keep up with this, Rodenstock, Eyetech’s spectacle lens partner, have developed the Biometric Intelligent Glasses, a.k.a the BIG vision. To produce these spectacle lenses, the client needs to get a measurement of their eyes using the DNEye scanner, where the biometry of the entire eye is determined for the calculation of the lens (several thousand data points and a multitude of parameters of each eye). This will then be fed into a computer which will produce the exact lenses for that particular client. With the most precise lenses in front of the client’s eyes, getting used to new spectacles should be as easy as possible. Eyetech are offering an opportunity to the communities of Street and surrounding areas to come and try the scanner for FREE. We are holding an open day on 21st March, and strongly suggest making an appointment for the scanner to avoid long waiting times. If you’d like to know more, feel free to contact us and our friendly team will be happy to tell you more about the BIG Vision.

WE OFFER:

TIME FOR YOU TO TALK WHILST WE LISTEN. RELAXED FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE.

Kirsty Thomas Consultant Optometrist

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE EXPLAINED SIMPLY. SUPERB RANGE OF QUALITY AND INDIVIDUAL FRAMES. THE MOST ADVANCED OPTICAL LENSES FROM ALL MANUFACTURERS.

100 High Street, Street BA16 0EW 01458 442178 eyetech-opticians.co.uk www.localreach.co.uk | 17

LOCALREACH

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How to Style It A Camel Midi Skirt Casual Elegance - T-Shirt and trainers This look is casual yet put-together. Pair your camel midi skirt with a simple white T-shirt providing a perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Either tuck the T-shirt in to define your waist or pick a fitted T shirt which stops at the upper hip if you don’t like to tuck. Complete the look with a pair of white trainers and accessorize with a necklace sunspecs and a chic crossbody bag. Professional Chic - Blazer and Heels

A camel midi skirt is a versatile and stylish piece that deserves a spot in every woman’s wardrobe. Its neutral hue and elegant length make it a timeless garment that can be styled many ways for all seasons. Here are five chic ways to style a camel midi skirt, ensuring you always step out in style.

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Paired with a tailored blazer in a contrasting colour, like black or navy, a camel skirt provides a polished business look. Team with a plain shirt, a cami top, or a turtleneck depending on the season. A pair of classic heels will elongate your legs and add an air of elegance. Accessorize with minimal jewellery and a structured handbag. Bohemian Flair - Flowy Top and Ankle Boots Think floral prints, lace, or even a light, embroidered fabric. Tuck the top in loosely to maintain a boho vibe. Pair it with ankle boots – heeled or flat, for the perfect outfit for a day out with friends or a casual date, layered necklaces, bracelets, and a slouchy bag will enhance the Boho vibe. Cozy and Stylish - Chunky Sweater and Boots During cooler months, choose a sweater in a rich colour like burgundy, forest green, or deep blue to contrast with the camel shade. Tuck the front part of the sweater into the skirt to give you a waist and complete the look with knee-high boots for a cozy-yet-chic outfit perfect for autumn strolls, winter brunches, or holiday gatherings. A scarf and a wool hat will add extra warmth and style. Evening Glam with a Silk Top and Strappy Sandals A luxurious silk top in a jewel tone or a classic black will create a sophisticated and glamorous look perfect for an evening out. Tuck the top in for a more defined waist. Add a pair of strappy sandals, elegant statement earrings, a clutch and maybe a metallic or patent belt and you’re ready for the wine bar. With these five styling ideas, you can maximize the potential of your camel midi skirt, proving that one piece can offer endless style possibilities. By Lorna Chalmers

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COMMUNITY

Dance into Spring with our friendly Scottish Country Dancing Group

their local area when they don’t have any other form of transport.

Lots to learn and lots of fun to be had. Our classes are held on Thursday evenings from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at The Blue School Sports Centre, Wells. All ages (over 18) welcome.

We are looking for people with their own car, a full driving licence and spare time on their hands to join our friendly team.

No experience necessary. No partner needed. However, a reasonable level of mobility is necessary for this lively and sociable activity. First class free, £3 to cover hall rental afterwards. To learn more about Scottish Dancing or to register your interest, call Ann Filer on 01934 740065 or email ann.wellsdancers@gmail.com

Your Local Community Needs Your Help Volunteers are desperately needed for our Community Transport Service that enables vulnerable people to attend medical appointments out of

Saints Days

Why do we have them? This month we have St David’s Day and St Patrick’s Day, but why do we have saints’ days, and do they have any relevance today? The tradition of saints’ days can be traced back to the early Christian Church. Initially, these days were primarily commemorations of martyrs who had died for their faith during periods of persecution. Over time, as Christianity spread and evolved, the Church began to recognize and honour other individuals who led exemplary lives of faith, charity, and piety. These individuals were canonized as saints, and specific days were set aside to celebrate their contributions to the faith and community.

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

Prickles Hedgehog Rescue Prickles Hedgehog Rescue will be grateful to any business or organization using 5 ream boxes of copy paper if they could let us have the empty boxes which are ideal for transporting over-wintering hedgehogs back to their homes. If you can help please ring 07806 744772.

The early observance of saints’ days was more than a religious practice; it also served to strengthen communities and reinforce moral values. By celebrating the lives of saints, people were reminded of virtuous ideals and inspired to emulate these holy figures. Despite the passage of centuries, saint’s days continue to be observed for several reasons. In addition to religious significance, saint’s days are often intertwined with cultural and national identity. For instance, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland or St. David’s Day in Wales are as much about celebrating national heritage as they are about honouring a patron saint. Moreover, many saints’ days have evolved to include various customs and festivities, making them appealing even to those who may not be religious. These celebrations often involve traditional foods, music, parades, and other cultural expressions, which help to preserve and promote cultural heritage.. By Gemma Brown

www.localreach.co.uk | 19

LOCAL BUSINESS A – Z

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CARPENTERS & JOINERS

Calling all businesses! Specialists in restoration, carpentry, joinery and bespoke furniture Specialists in all aspects of carpentry & joinery Bespoke furniture including Windows & Doors External & Internal Stairs & Furniture Kitchens & Old Building Restoration Unit 8 Stockwood Farm Pylle, Nr. Shepton Mallet BA4 6TA

98% of our advertisers rebook each month. LocalReach is delivered every month by ROYAL Mail to 131,330 homes & businesses. Email hello@localreach.co.uk or call us on 01749 600388 Lines answered 8am-8pm Mon-Fri, 9am – 6pm Sat & 10am to 4pm Sun.

Workshop: 01749 838913 Mobile: 07838 184407 Email: info@hammondsrestoration.co.uk www.hammondscarpentryandjoinery.co.uk 20 | www.localreach.co.uk

COMMUNITY MAGAZINES

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

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388 CONTINENCE CARE

DRAINAGE

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LOCAL BUSINESS A – Z

DRIVEWAYS

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Calling all businesses! 98% of our advertisers rebook each month. LocalReach is delivered every month by ROYAL Mail to 131,330 homes & businesses. Email hello@localreach.co.uk or call us on 01749 600388 Lines answered 8am-8pm Mon-Fri, 9am – 6pm Sat & 10am to 4pm Sun.

COMMUNITY MAGAZINES

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

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ELECTRICIANS

YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICIANS Family Run Business No Call Out Charge 10% OAP Discount General & 24/7 Emergency Electrical Services

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WWW.DELLELECTRICS.CO.UK www.localreach.co.uk | 21

LOCAL BUSINESS A – Z ELECTRICIANS CONTINUED

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01749 600388 LOFT BOARDING

Need more storage space?

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Local Domestic & Commercial Electrician Test and inspections (EICR) Maintenance and repairs Consumer unit replacements Re wires Solar and battery storage installations

www.temple-electrical.co.uk office@temple-electrical.co.uk

07861 761303

ESTATE AGENTS

Calling all businesses! LocalReach is delivered every month by ROYAL Mail to 131,330 homes & businesses. Email hello@localreach.co.uk or call us on 01749 600388

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

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LOCAL BUSINESS A – Z ROOFING CONTINUED

PLUMBING AND HEATING

ROOF, GUTTER, UPVC - REPAIR, FITTING AND CLEANING SERVICE ROOFING SERVICES – New Roofs, Roof Repairs, Under Tile Felting, Ridge Tiles UPVC ROOFING SERVICES – UPVC Fascias & Soffits, Guttering, Bargeboards, Cladding, Dry Verge Systems ROOF & UPVC CLEANING SERVICES – Roof Cleaning and Fungicide Treatment, UPVC Cleaning FREE S TE QUO

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TREE SURGEONS

• All aspects of tree/hedge work • Stump grinding • Specialist work undertaken including fruit trees & bamboo removal • Suppliers of wood chip, wood mulch & logs H OAK ILL

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WASTE MANAGEMENT

LYNX WASTE MANAGEMENT  DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL WASTE  HOUSE/GARAGE CLEARANCE  GREEN/GARDEN WASTE 7 DAYS A WEEK. FULLY LICENSED AND  BUILDERS WASTE INSURED WITH RECEIPT  BED, MATTRESS AND SOFA REMOVAL ON COLLECTION.  WHITE GOODS AND APPLIANCE REMOVAL WE RECYCLE EVERYTHING WE CAN.  GENERAL HOUSEHOLD RUBBISH A NO OBLIGATION QUOTE 07543 818613 FOR QUOTE@LYNX-WASTE.CO.UK www.localreach.co.uk | 23

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Check out our 4.7 Star rating Check out our 4.7 Star rating Check out our 4.7 Star rating