LocalReach Somerton & Langport April 2024

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!

LocalReach is now on Facebook - go to www.facebook.com/localreachsomertonandlangport

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 April for the May issues

Disclaimer.

For Business Advertising call 01458 555503 or email hello@localreach.co.uk Deadline is 1st April for the May issues

DO YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF LOCALREACH EACH MONTH?

LocalReach is delivered each month by ROYAL MAIL to ALL of the postcode areas, including all towns and villages within the postcode areas, to every resident and business, totalling 10,048 each month.

Somerton & Langport/TA11 & TA10

10,048 copies

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.

Dundon

Compton Dundon

TA11 SOMERTON

Hurcot Kingsdon

Plot Gate

Charlton Adam

with the full address of the non

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.

Garden View

This month – An annual pleasure

Every year since I began to garden, come spring, I grabbed my spade and in a fit of enthusiasm I dug over the soil. Then I filled any empty spaces with annuals. These might be carefully nurtured in my greenhouse, sprinkled direct from the packet, or purchased in packs at my local garden centre.

Several years ago, due to an injury, I was unable to get out and begin this frenzy of activity. I resigned myself to the fact than my garden simply wouldn’t be as colourful that year. Nature however had other plans.

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.

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

As I waited for my perennials to surface something wonderful happened. Hundreds of self-sown annuals from the previous year also began to surface. They’d been there all along, just waiting for the warm spring sun to bring them to life.

It occurred to me that my habit of stopping deadheading towards the end of the season (to leave some interesting seed heads which feed the birds and look so pretty covered in frost) had benefitted me in more ways than the one I’d intended.

Calendula, Candytuft, Cosmos, Larkspur, Nicotiana, Poppies, Sweet Alyssum and Love-ina-Mist were popping up everywhere I looked. I’ve never been so delighted.

I waited until they were a couple of inches tall then on a slightly drizzly day I eased some out and transferred them to barer soil.

My reward was a display of annuals every bit as lovely as if I’d spent hours with my spade and trowel.

So last year I experimented. Throughout the flowering season I noted where I might need an extra patch or two of colour and then, when I stopped deadheading, I simply grabbed a few seed heads and dropped them in the appropriate spot.

That spring and summer I had another beautiful display of annuals. Why hadn’t I discovered this lazy way to garden before?

Of course, there are some teeny disadvantages. The main one is that annuals grown from seed flower later than those bought as plugs or plants from garden centres. Don’t let this put you off though. If you have a good range of perennials the annuals can take their time, taking over when the others begin to fade. Also, no-one says it has to be all or nothing. I have a passion for cosmos, so I bring in a few plants early on every year. That way I can savour their pretty blooms right through the season.

So, if you’re planting annuals this spring, plan ahead a little. Look at your garden as an evolving piece of work and let at least some of them selfseed. Then next year don’t be so quick to brandish a spade…you’ll gain two commodities gardeners always need more of...time and money.

Happy gardening,

By Rachael Leverton

The fence that repairs itself

If you scratch or cut Colourfence, the ingenious zinc element in the Zincalume steel reacts with moisture to form a protective barrier to prevent any corrosion with no action needed from you.

STRONG, SECURE & BUILT TO LAST!

Colourfence are transforming gardens across Somerset!

It may do “exactly what it says on the tin” but let’s face it, treating a timber fence can never be called fun! In fact, owning a timber fence isn’t much fun either with costly, time consuming maintenance and repairs almost every year.

Finally, the alternative to timber fencing…our fence goes up and stays up, resisting wind gusts of up to 130mph!

Colourfence fencing solutions are made from innovative Colorbond steel, virtually maintenance free with an occasional wash down with water to keep it looking as good as new - so you never need to pick up that paintbrush again!, Guaranteed not to rot, warp, chip or peel for 25 years.

Available in a variety of heights and colours with or without trellis, our skilled installation team will make short work of transforming your garden.

The best news is the pricing is just as attractive, starting costs are in line with comparable traditional systems but offer the ongoing peace of mind that your investment will continue to save time and money year after year.

For those of us who want a low maintenance garden, Colourfence promises a lifetime of hassle-free enjoyment.

Watermark Bathrooms and Adaptions, the bathroom fitting experts who have been transforming homes for over a decade

What sets Watermark Bathrooms apart is our unparalleled ability to adapt and customise bathrooms to meet the specific needs of individuals facing challenges in bathing. Our team of highly skilled professionals not only possesses exceptional craftsmanship but also a deep understanding of the diverse needs of their clients. We are also dedicated to making bathrooms accessible and comfortable for individuals with difficulties in bathing, ensuring a safe and relaxing bathing experience.

One of the remarkable aspects of Watermark Bathrooms and is our adaptability, no matter the size or layout of the bathroom, we have a unique talent for maximising space and designing functional layouts. Our attention to detail is truly commendable, ensuring that every inch of the bathroom is utilized efficiently. From installing grab bars and non-slip flooring to designing easy-access showers and walk-in baths, we tailor each project to perfection, providing a safe and stylish bathing solution for everyone.

Furthermore, the professionalism and reliability of Watermark Bathrooms is unparalleled. Our team of experts not only complete projects on time but also communicate effectively throughout the process, ensuring that customers are informed and involved at every step. The quality of our workmanship is evident in the final result – a beautifully designed, accessible bathroom that exceeds expectations.

In a world where customer service often falls short, Watermark Bathrooms and Adaptions stands as a shining example of excellence. Our ability to transform ordinary bathrooms into safe havens of comfort is truly remarkable. If you are looking for a bathroom fitting company that genuinely cares about your needs and delivers outstanding results, look no further than us, you can expect nothing but the best – a bathroom tailored to your needs, designed with expertise, and crafted with care.

RAFA Mid-Somerset Branch Presentation “They Bend ‘Em We Mend ‘Em”

RAFA-MSB next Branch Meeting is on Monday 8th April at 11:00am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. The Meeting includes a Presentation “They Bend Them, We Mend Them” covering 20 years adventures as an RAF Engineering Officer at RAF stations; the meeting will conclude with a Pub Lunch and drinks. The Branch covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA Members, Current and Ex-RAF and Reserves, Current and Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel welcome. Contact Secretary e-mail rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057

Tuesday 9th April - Sally Nex, ‘A World Under our Feet’

We know more about the surface of the Moon than we do about what goes on in the soil under our feet. Yet our garden soil underpins everything: it governs how plants grow, which plants will thrive and what pests and diseases you’re most likely to come across. Come along and learn to look after it and treat it with the respect it deserves, and your garden will thrive.

Come along from 7:00pm for a friendly welcome, free entry for visitors, refreshments available Sedgemoorgardensclub.co.uk

01458 259025.

Somerton Group of Artists monthly meeting and AGM

April 10th, AGM at 7:00pm at The Parish Rooms, Market Square, Somerton. Followed by a Needle Felt demonstration entitled “Landscape and Coastal Scenes” by Pip White.

“Pip’s use of fibre forms an illusion of watercolour or pastels and she creates landscapes and coastal scenes mainly from south-west England. The works are lovingly made from Merino fleece and also from

more exotic fibres such as yak and silk as well as other natural fibres.”

Free to members, Guests always welcome, £5 on the door, refreshments available. www. somertonartists.co.uk

Great reasons to come to Somerton in April

Join us for the opening of our new exhibition ‘Earth, Wind, Water and Fire’ on Saturday 13th, we will also be serving fresh coffee and homemade cakes from 10:30am. The exhibition showcases Lucy Evans paintings and ceramics by Elizabeth Raeburn and Rodney Lawrence.

We are delighted to welcome Jean Vernon, award-winning author, who will be presenting her Illustrated Pollinators talk on the 17th at 7:00pm. Textile Artist Paula Simpson returns to teaching Boro and Kantha techniques and we are hosting an acoustic Blues afternoon on the 21st.

For events and workshops please book online at acearts.co.uk or in-store ACEarts, Market Place, Somerton.

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.

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

We’re not just about postcards - our interests are so diverse!

Mendip Postcard Club meets on 3rd Monday of each month at 7:30pm in Wells Town Hall. Our members interests not only cover postcards, as Adrian showed so delightfully at the last meeting, by bringing & demonstrating his beautiful old portable gramophone, but a diverse range of interests.

At the meeting on 15th April, Sylvia will be giving a presentation entitled ‘Priddy - a Photographic History ‘.

Our intriguing 20th May meeting will be on ‘Ghosts of Piccadilly ‘, given by Stephen.

Both promise to be fascinating glimpses into the history of two very different places.

Please come & join us, we love to see new members!

“The Impact of Gloving on Yeovil and South Somerset”

Long Load Village Hall on Thursday 18th April at 7:00pm.

“The Impact of Gloving on Yeovil and South Somerset”

A very interesting talk by Joseph Lewis, Heritage Coordinator. Pre booked Tickets £5, tickets at the door on the night £6. Refreshments available. Please book your place by ringing Ann on 01458 241202.

Help Mid-Wessex Singers celebrate 25 years of music and friendship!

Our evening concert, conducted by Musical Director, Alice Dicker, is on Saturday 4th May at St Michael’s Church, Somerton.

The programme will include some previously performed favourites, including Vivaldi’s Gloria and Faure’s Cantique de Jean Racine, as well as looking to the future with some modern choral

compositions. For this special occasion we welcome professional organist, Malcolm Archer and soloists, Louise Innes and Eloise Routledge.

Look out for ticketing information on social media or by visiting our website www.midwessexsingers.co.uk , calling our Secretary, Sheena on 07768 704883 or e-mailing info@midwessexsingers.co.uk

Street Striders to run Couch To 5k from June

Are you looking to get into running, but unsure how to get started? Then why not join the Street Striders Couch to 5k programme starting in June 2024. Our friendly group sessions allow you to begin your running journey with likeminded individuals at a gradual pace, building up to completing a 5k run after 9 weeks.

Sessions are led by volunteers from Street Striders.

So if you are looking for a great way to get active during summer, then please contact c25k@streetstriders.co.uk to express an interest in joining us.

Somerton Music and Arts Festival Shapes Up

Following the announcement that Somerstock 2024 (July 12/13) will be headlined by super-star jazz-funk band Shakatak, the festival has been planning more events in the Town.

During the run up to Somerstock, the festival opens with a Live Music Weekender with music in Somerton’s hostelries on July 5/6, plus a Quiz, History Walk and on July 4, the UK’s most authentic Fleetwood Mac Tribute show, FLEETWOOD BAC, endorsed by Mick Fleetwood himself.

Other attractions will be announced soon.

Go to www.somertonartsfestival.co.uk for all the details and tickets.

Banana and Walnut Loaf

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 60-70 minutes

Ingredients:

225g plain flour

2 level tsp baking powder

80g softened or spreadable butter

1 large egg (beaten)

110g caster sugar

4 medium bananas (peeled)

50g walnuts (chopped)

Zest 1 lemon

Demerara sugar for sprinkling

Method:

Preheat oven to 180C / gas 4. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin.

Mash three bananas to a pulp and chop the fourth.

Sift the flour and baking powder together into a separate bowl. Add the butter, egg and caster sugar. Using a mixer mix everything together for a minute or two. Add the mashed and chopped bananas and briefly whisk them into the mixture. Fold in the chopped walnuts and lemon zest. Spoon the cake mixture into the prepared tin. Sprinkle with Demerara sugar.

Place in the pre-heated oven so that the top of the tin is in the centre. Bake for 60-70 minutes until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean.

Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes then turn out on to a cooling rack.

This cake is good served warm with crème fraiche, cold, or even toasted.

Easter Eggs

They’re good for you...honest!

Chocolate Easter eggs. Surely one of the finest German inventions ever. No-one can be quite sure who first came up with the idea of combining chocolate and eggs but whoever did was a marketing genius.

In these health-conscious times though can we still justify this tradition, or should we ban such an indulgent confectionary?

I once read an article, in the Guardian I think, that claimed you can find evidence to support any argument you like if you look hard enough. So,

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.

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

on behalf of chocoholics everywhere I decided to take up the challenge and here are my results.

CHOCOLATE IS GOOD FOR YOU

Chocolate is good for your brain.

Cocoa-rich drinks are rich in chemicals called flavanols. These enhance brain function, fight sleep deprivation, fatigue, and aging!

They are the same chemicals present in Green Tea, which is touted as a preventative for stroke, heart failure, cancer, and diabetes. Gwyneth Paltrow drinks gallons of it and she looks fab. Sadly, I couldn’t find any mention of her imbibing Thornton’s continental choccies, but I’ll keep looking.

Chocolate helps prevent cancer.

Ok, we’ve met flavanols...now meet flavonoids. These are antioxidants: you know, those things beloved of cosmetics companies, ‘We slapped this on our model, and she looked twenty years younger after we’d photographed her in softfocus and air-brushed her so even her own mother wouldn’t recognise her.’

We do know that they help prevent cancer. We also know they don’t do this directly. In fact, our bodies view flavonoids as highly undesirable and work hard to get rid of them. By-products of this effort are phase II enzymes, which help eliminate mutagens and carcinogens, which sound like the aliens from an episode of Captain Scarlett and are equally nasty. Only small amounts of flavonoids are required for this beneficial effect but hey... have another egg just to make sure.

Chocolate is a mood-booster.

It contains small amounts of phenylethylamine, anandamide, tryptophan and caffeine. These are natural mood boosters, so this explains why women crave the stuff when they’re premenstrual, pregnant, at work, awake…

I guess chocolate is both naughty and nice and annoyingly, as with anything life, moderation is the key.

Dark chocolate is definitely better for you overall. 60% cocoa solids is great but 70 or 75% is better. Milk chocolate contains fewer cocoa solids and has a higher sugar and fat content, and I couldn’t find any research saying either of these have hidden health benefits...and believe me I looked really hard.

So, enjoy your eggs this Easter. Chocolate is delicious, fun and a perfect pick-me-up. Just don’t overdo it..

By Cally Grant

NOSTALGIA, CHANGES TO PET OWNERSHIP AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE!

We are a nation of animal lovers. Never has this been so apparent than during, or since, the coronavirus pandemic. In 2022 UK pet ownership had reached 62%, equating to 17 million UK households having a pet. The last few years have brought home to many of us what truly matters and relationships, including the furry variety, have played a significant role in getting us through what has been for many, a challenging time. The love we receive and give to our furry, and sometimes not so furry, friends has helped so many with loneliness, depression, and isolation.

NOSTALGIA, CHANGES TO PET OWNERSHIP AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE!

Nostalgia, Changes to Pet Ownership and Looking to the Future!

OWNERSHIP AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE!

are lovers. been apparent during, ownership have home us and relationships, have getting time. we receive and and so loneliness, was

We are a nation of animal lovers. Never has this been so apparent than during, or since, the coronavirus pandemic. In 2022 UK pet ownership had reached 62%, equating to 17 million UK households having a pet. The last few years have brought home to many of us what truly matters and relationships, including the furry variety, have played a significant role in getting us through what has been for many, a challenging time. The love we receive and give to our furry, and sometimes not so furry, friends has helped so many with loneliness, depression, and isolation.

We are a nation of animal lovers. Never has this been so apparent than during, or since, the coronavirus pandemic. In 2022 UK pet ownership had reached 62%, equating to 17 million UK households having a pet. The last few years have brought home to many of us what truly matters and relationships, including the furry variety, have played a significant role in getting us through what has been for many, a challenging time. The love we receive and give to our furry, and sometimes not so furry, friends has helped so many with loneliness, depression, and isolation.

Our Glastonbury branch was established in 1939 by Charles Grunsell and Dennis Nicholson being one of a number of Orchard Vet branches in Somerset at that time. In those days, operations were performed from a house on a kitchen table; so much has changed since the early days. Orchard Vets has seen our service through so many changes and challenges over the last eighty years, however, these last few years have allowed us to re-evaluate our priorities.

Our Glastonbury branch was established in 1939 by Charles Grunsell and Dennis Nicholson being one of a number of Orchard Vet branches in Somerset at that time. In those days, operations were performed from a house on a kitchen table; so much has changed since the early days. Orchard Vets has seen our service through so many changes and challenges over the last eighty years, however, these last few years have allowed us to re-evaluate our priorities.

Nicholson being one number Somerset In seen through many allowed

Our Glastonbury branch was established in 1939 by Charles Grunsell and Dennis Nicholson being one of a number of Orchard Vet branches in Somerset at that time. In those days, operations were performed from a house on a kitchen table; so much has changed since the early days. Orchard Vets has seen our service through so many changes and challenges over the last eighty years, however, these last few years have allowed us to re-evaluate our priorities.

Until recently, many of you will be aware that Orchard Vets was a mixed practice, dealing with not only pets but also farm animals. However, to allow us to concentrate on giving our clients and their pets the best possible service, in July 2023 we released the farm side of the business so that we could focus on the pet side and became a solely small animal practice. We continue to be independent and can now concentrate on maintaining high practice standards, including focus on some of our certifications including feline friendly and rabbit friendly status, and providing our own out of hours emergency service.

Until recently, many of you will be aware that Orchard Vets was a mixed practice, dealing with not only pets but also farm animals. However, to allow us to concentrate on giving our clients and their pets the best possible service, in July 2023 we released the farm side of the business so that we could focus on the pet side and became a solely small animal practice. We continue to be independent and can now concentrate on maintaining high practice standards, including focus on some of our certifications including feline friendly and rabbit friendly status, and providing our own out of hours emergency service.

It is with great excitement that we announce the next stage of our journey with our community. We would like to welcome new clients but equally look forward to seeing more of our existing clients, whilst reassuring them that we have made these changes as we have their pets’ best interests at heart. We want you to know that, as pet owners ourselves, we want you to feel that you are in the safest of hands, with the knowledge that the level of care and attention we give your pets is the same level of care that we would expect our own pets to receive.

ORCHARD VETS ARE TAKING ON NEW REGISTRATIONS!

It is with great excitement that we announce the next stage of our journey with our community. We would like to welcome new clients but equally look forward to seeing more of our existing clients, whilst reassuring them that we have made these changes as we have their pets’ best interests at heart. We want you to know that, as pet owners ourselves, we want you to feel that you are in the safest of hands, with the knowledge that the level of care and attention we give your pets is the same level of care that we would expect our own pets to receive.

ORCHARD VETS ARE TAKING ON NEW REGISTRATIONS!

Until recently, many of you will be aware that Orchard Vets was a mixed practice, dealing with not only pets but also farm animals. However, to allow us to concentrate on giving our clients and their pets the best possible service, in July 2023 we released the farm side of the business so that we could focus on the pet side and became a solely small animal practice. We continue to be independent and can now concentrate on maintaining high practice standards, including focus on some of our certifications including feline friendly and rabbit friendly status, and providing our own out of hours emergency service.

It is with great excitement that we announce the next stage of our journey with our community. We would like to welcome new clients but equally look forward to seeing more of our existing clients, whilst reassuring them that we have made these changes as we have their pets’ best interests at heart. We want you to know that, as pet owners ourselves, we want you to feel that you are in the safest of hands, with the knowledge that the level of care and attention we give your pets is the same level of care that we would expect our own pets to receive.

ORCHARD VETS ARE TAKING ON NEW REGISTRATIONS!

For the first time in 4 years Orchard Vets are officially taking on NEW clients and patients and we invite you to apply. Whether you’re a new pet owner, have existing pets registered elsewhere, previously had pets registered with us, have one pet, multiple pets, whatever shape, size or age, we’d love to hear from you.

For the first time in 4 years Orchard Vets are officially taking on NEW clients and patients and we invite you to apply. Whether you’re a new pet owner, have existing pets registered elsewhere, previously had pets registered with us, have one pet, multiple pets, whatever shape, size or age, we’d love to hear from you.

For the first time in 4 years Orchard Vets are officially taking on NEW clients and patients and we invite you to apply. Whether you’re a new pet owner, have existing pets registered elsewhere, previously had pets registered with us, have one pet, multiple pets, whatever shape, size or age, we’d love to hear from you.

will be aware mixed practice, with not animals. concentrate the best possible farm so could focus standards, feline rabbit status, own emergency of our to new to seeing of we changes we interests We know owners feel in of the that we same to receive. are patients we new elsewhere, previously had with multiple

The registration process is simple, you can apply to register on our website; https://www.ovg.co.uk/register-with-us/ or pop into the practice in person. Please be aware that if you are registered elsewhere, we will need to contact your existing practice to obtain your pet’s history before appointments can be made. T&Cs can be found on our website www.ovg.co.uk.

The registration process is simple, you can apply to register on our website; www.ovg.co.uk/register-with-us/ or pop into the practice in person.

Please be aware that if you are registered elsewhere, we will need to contact your existing practice to obtain your pet’s history before appointments can be made. T&Cs can be found on our website www.ovg.co.uk

Quote code

Quote

to visit.

Code can be used against initial consultations and boosters over £40 or parasite control checks.

against initial consultations and boosters over £40 or parasite control checks.

Max two vouchers per household.

03167 - A5 Open Day Flyer.indd 2

parasite household.

Full T&Cs available at www.ovg.co.uk

Max two vouchers per household.

Expires 31/8/2024

Full T&Cs available at www.ovg.co.uk

03167 - A5 Open Day Flyer.indd 2 29/01/2024 09:12

Crossword Across

Word Search

astronomical brawny broad chunky copious deep epic

extensive fat giant grand great heavy hefty

huge hulking immense infinite jumbo large lofty

long mega mighty outsized spacious tall titanic

1 Material used to make tents (6)

5 Skimpy knickers! (6)

8 Earth, compost (4)

9 Green vegetable (8)

10 Bendy fruit (6)

11 Hard yellowish tooth deposit (6)

12 Area, region (4)

14 Frozen water (3)

15 Nip, chomp (4)

16 Expression, brief utterance (6)

18 Lightweight waterproof jacket (6)

20 Sticky insect trap (8)

22 Barrage, bombardment (4)

23 Undercover, secret (6)

24 Brine (6)

Down

2 Odour, scent (5)

3 Group of houses, rural community (7)

4 The Beatles sang about a yellow one! (9)

5 As well, also (3)

6 Coveted film award (5)

7 Dashing, debonair (7)

11 Dictionary of synonyms and antonyms (9)

13 Shakespearean play (7)

15 House of ill repute! (7)

17 Bramley, Granny Smith, Cox (5)

19 Extra-terrestrial (5)

Mindbenders

towering tremendous vast voluminous weighty whopping wide

21 Container, vessel (3) Solutions: Turn to page 19

Forget-Me-Not Memory Cafe - Curry Rivel Village Hall

If you know someone who experiences challenges with their memory then The ForgetMe-Not Café may be just the place for them. Open every Tuesday from 2:30pm until 4:30pm at Curry Rivel Village Hall, the café offers a warm welcome to all.

Enjoy some gentle exercises for mind and body, have a refreshing cup of tea with cake and join in with a rousing singalong to round off the afternoon.

For more information: myforgetmenotcafe.co.uk

Chris on 01458 396123 or Adrienne on 252710

Somerton Merry Widows offers a warm welcome every month

We meet the first Tuesday morning of every month at 10.30am in the barn at the White Hart in Somerton.

We enjoy each others company, over coffee, on our individual path through widowhood - no path is the same and there’s no right or wrong way to do it.

We share information, have our own Social WhatsApp Group, planning lunch groups and a midweek break in Devon.

Contact Dru perrydruscilla@gmail.com, 07799262047.

Somerton Running Group Offers Free Running Coaching

Somerton Recreation Ground is the home to Somerton Running Group at 6:00pm every Tuesday night. Runners of both genders and all abilities benefit from training with a United Kingdom Athletics Endurance Performance coach with 45 years experience. Sessions last around 90 minutes. The only charge is a £1 voluntary donation for use of the Recreation Ground, which benefits from lighting to the skatepark, 5-a-side football pitch and rugby club (after 6:30pm in the winter). For more details email coachkeith53@ gmail.com or look at the Somerton Running Group Facebook page.

Gentle Pilates with Age UK Somerset

Keeping active is vital for our health and wellbeing. Join Age UK Somerset for Gentle Pilates at Somerton Parish Rooms, Market Square, TA21 7NB, on Tuesdays at 10:00am, £5 per class.

This is a mat-based class, specially designed for people over 55. Simple but effective exercises that will strengthen your whole body and improve both balance and posture.

To find out more or sign up contact Age UK Somerset on: 01823 345624 / ageingwell@ ageuksomerset.org.uk

Mah-Jong: a beautiful game filling you with joy and curiosity

The Shipham Inn (SomersetBS25 1TW) would like to welcome people to join their regular Mah-Jong Group. Whether you’re a novice, experience Mah-Jong player or someone who would like to learn to play a warm welcome awaits.

My hope is that we can make these enjoyable social evenings playing a game that originated in the Far East.

We meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month: 7:30pm start. Free.

Contact details please: mark.trenchard53@ gmail.com or phone / text 07815681580

Somerton Gardeners Club is on the move

Somerton Gardeners Club will be moving from the Edgar Hall to St Cleers Chapel from April this year. We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm and invite a different speaker each month. Castle Gardens will be talking about “Managing Lawns“ in April. In May we will have our annual Plant Sale outside the Library in Cox’s Yard.

Visitors are very welcome to meetings. For further details contact Annette Sparks on 01458 258947.

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

Hayfever isn’t just sniffles and sneezes

It’s that time of year again where nature starts to wake up after a long winter and plants and trees start to bloom. Tree pollen can be an issue in February/March and April and with the warmer than normal temperatures around this year, the spring flowers have started to bloom early.

Spring and Summer brings colour to our world, but often comes with a price for allergy sufferers.

Hayfever isn’t just sniffles and sneezes; often people suffer with itchy, red and irritated eyes. Hayfever and allergies in general can also exacerbate existing eye conditions such as dry eye and blepharitis.

So, how do you know that you have an allergy? Well often, you don’t! That’s where we come in! There are lots of different products on the market that can help ease your symptoms, so pop in and see us or make an ACES (Acute Community Eyecare Scheme) appointment for urgent and/ or persistent symptoms. You can also mention it in your routine Eye Exam.

What kind of symptoms can you expect?

- Dry, gritty or itchy eyes

- Swollen eyelids and watery eyes

- Symptoms are usually first thing in the morning and more often early evening, and usually affects both eyes.

WE OFFER:

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

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE EXPLAINED SIMPLY.

SUPERB RANGE OF QUALITY AND INDIVIDUAL FRAMES.

THE MOST ADVANCED OPTICAL LENSES FROM ALL MANUFACTURERS.

Join the fun at Somerton Memory Cafe

Somerton Memory Café meets on the first and third Thursday of the month at West Street Church from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. We provide a range of games and activities for anyone with memory problems and their carer. Each session is structured to maximise opportunities for socialising and helping brain activity. The aim is to have fun and enjoy a cup of tea and slice of cake. For further information please contact Annette Sparks on 01458 258947

Join

us for an interesting talk about the piano

Somerton U3A meets on the 4th Friday of the month for a coffee at the Edgar Hall. The speaker for April will be Mike Denham who will be giving a talk entitled “1924 the date the piano got hot” which will include a practical demonstration of piano playing.

Visitors are welcome to join us. For further information please contact Annette Sparks on 01458 258947

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.

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

Chocolate Egg Hunts, Cute Bunnies & Splendid Bonnets

We can have great fun at Easter-time, but don’t miss out on the exciting news. Good Friday is called that for a reason - but how can a man dying a painful death on wooden cross 2,000 years ago, possibly be good? Is it still relevant today?

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 Find out more at Low Ham Chapel, near Langport, TA10 9DT.

Sundays 11:00am & 6:30pm.

Looking for a venue for a one-off or regular event

Keinton Mandeville Methodist Church Community Hall

Queen Street provides a bright and attractive venue for a host of events from children’s birthday parties, activity sessions, suppers, Club meetings/AGMs, lectures to musical evenings. The Hall can offer a cleared floor configuration or set with round tables and comfortable padded chairs or with just chairs or as a play area. Additional oblong tables and chairs are available. The Hall has a kitchen, toilets and heating is available. For a preview and to discuss dates and hire charges contact Alison Sutton on 01458 223656

Updates On Donate For Defib Weston-super-Mare Project, Making A Difference!

The Donate For Defib Weston-super-Mare Team continues to raise awareness regarding defibrillators within the community through events, presentations, social media, local newspapers, radio and including the BBC. Three electrical companies are sponsoring the project by installing the defibrillators at various venues, more defibrillators are on order. In February the project, ran CPR / Defibrillator awareness sessions which were well-attended and further sessions are planned.

For further information please contact donatefordefib.wsm@gmail.com

Hearing Loss: The Untold Impact Upon Others

By Simon Swindells, Director and Clinical Lead Audiologist at South West Hearing Care

Hearing loss is often perceived as an individual challenge, impacting only the person experiencing it. However, the reality is far more nuanced. While the individual with hearing loss undoubtedly faces difficulties, the consequences often extend outwards, affecting their loved ones, relationships, and even the broader community.

Communication breakdown:

One of the most significant repercussions of hearing loss for others is the breakdown in communication. Misunderstandings, frustration, and social isolation can arise when a loved one struggles to hear conversations, follow instructions, or participate in group discussions. This can be particularly challenging for family members, caregivers, and close friends who may feel the burden of constantly repeating themselves or simplifying conversations.

Emotional strain:

Witnessing a loved one grapple with hearing loss can be emotionally taxing for those around them. Feelings of helplessness, frustration, and even anger can surface as they navigate the challenges of communication and witness the potential social isolation experienced by the individual with hearing loss. Additionally, the emotional toll can extend to concerns about safety and wellbeing, particularly for older adults with hearing loss.

Impact on relationships:

Hearing loss can significantly impact the dynamics of

relationships. Spouses and partners may experience a strain on communication and intimacy. Family gatherings and social interactions can become frustrating and isolating for both the individual with hearing loss and their loved ones. Additionally, friendships may suffer due to communication difficulties and the potential withdrawal of the person struggling to hear.

Societal Implications:

Individuals with hearing loss may face challenges in employment settings, struggling to follow instructions, participate in meetings, or effectively communicate with colleagues. This can limit their career opportunities and hinder their ability to fully contribute to the workforce. Furthermore, social interactions in public spaces, such as restaurants, theatres, or places of worship, can become significantly more difficult for those with hearing loss, potentially leading to social exclusion and a diminished sense of belonging.

If any of the above resonates with you please don’t hesitate to contact us. We also offer complimentary hearing assessments from our clinics in Street and Westbury.

Street: 01458 555533 | 7 The Bayliss Centre, High Street, Street

Westbury: 01373 823076 | 2 High Street, Westbury

www.swhearingcare.co.uk

A Good Read

The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle

by Stuart Turton

Our hero awakens in a mysterious, damp forest, clad in an unfamiliar tuxedo and inhabiting a body that isn’t his own. With no recollection of his identity or how he came to be in this situation, he makes his way to Blackheath House, and soon discovers he is Aiden Bishop, trapped there for a purpose. A masked figure reveals to him that a disguised murder is set to occur that day. Bishop has eight attempts to unravel it, reliving the same day in different bodies, each termed a “host.” He retains memories from each host, but failure to identify the killer by the eighth cycle means a reset to day one, with all memories wiped, a cycle he has already undergone numerous times.

As Bishop gradually begins to make sense of his predicament, he learns of competitors: two others at the country house party are also inhabiting foreign souls, each racing to solve the murder to escape the time loop. As if this was not enough peril, a relentless psychopath is also pursuing him, threatening each of his hosts.

Author Turton masterfully orchestrates a narrative replete with diverse, enigmatic characters, while scattering random clues throughout. The ‘rules’ of the story rules evolve as Bishop navigates his way through each day. I’m doubting that many readers will solve the mystery before the final plot twist.

It’s Agatha Christie, Cluedo, and Groundhog Day, with a twist of time loop chaos. It takes a while to orientate yourself within the story but it’s well worth the effort. Turton’s debut novel is inventive, chaotic, and brilliantly bonkers. Buckle up and hold on tight.

Look Up!

by

Nathan

Bryon

and illustrated by Dapo Adeola

Rocket dreams of becoming the most brilliant star-catcher, and space explorer in the world, like her idol Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman in space. Fizzing with excitement about an imminent meteor shower, Rocket makes an announcement about it over the supermarket loudspeaker while the cashier is distracted. She makes and distributes flyers to all the shoppers, despite her older brother Jamal’s disapproval and embarrassment. Jamal is usually engrossed in his phone and video games and finds Rocket annoying. When he’s too absorbed in gaming to take Rocket to the park to see the meteor shower, Rocket faces a dilemma. But an unexpected visitor at their door turns out to be a delightful could save the day in the most delightful manner.

Bryon and Adeola’s captivating picture book introduces us to chatty, Rocket, a character whose passion for space is all-consuming. Adeola’s characterful illustrations capture Jamal’s angsty teenage moodiness and Rocket’s excitement about stargazing. Packed with space facts and insights into meteors, this book also beautifully depicts family dynamics, sibling bonds, and a young girl’s contagious zeal for the cosmos.

By Tash Donovan

April Fool

A history of practical jokes

History is littered with wars, revolutions, and the rise and fall of civilizations. Yet, amidst the chaos and drama, a less chronicled but equally important thread weaves through the fabric of our past: the history of practical jokes. This noble tradition has been the unsung hero of human interaction, providing levity in the face of adversity and reminding rulers and peasants alike that nobody is above a good pie in the face.

Let’s rewind to Ancient Rome, where one of the earliest recorded practical jokes came to light. Emperor Augustus, known for his powerful leadership, apparently also had a knack for humour. He was fond of sending guests to his banquets home with absurd gifts, such as a giant squid disguised as a delicacy, or a bunch of carrots artistically arranged to look like a rare bouquet. Imagine the confusion and laughter when a dignified senator discovered his ‘precious’ parting gift was essentially a well-dressed octopus.

Fast forward to the Renaissance, an era of enlightenment and, evidently, elite pranking. Leonardo da Vinci, aside from his contributions to art and science, reportedly designed a mechanical dragon to scare unwary visitors in his court. This early animatronic beast wasn’t just a feat of engineering but a testament to da Vinci’s love for a good prank, blending innovation with a dash of terror.

The 18th century brought us the infamous Joseph Pujol, better known by his stage name Le Pétomane. This French entertainer turned flatulence into an art form, astonishing audiences by playing musical instruments and performing various feats through the power of his own gas. Pujol’s performances at the Moulin Rouge were nothing short of a sensational prank on high society, making him a legend in the annals (half pun totally intended) of practical joke history.

In the more recent past, the 20th century gave us Alan Abel, a professional prankster who founded the Society for Indecency to Naked Animals (SINA), advocating for the clothing of all animals for the sake of decency. This long-running hoax fooled many, including some media outlets, into

believing there was a genuine movement to put pants on horses and dresses on chickens!

Even esteemed institutions haven’t been immune to the allure of pranking. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has a storied tradition of elaborate “hacks,” as they call them. One of the most memorable involved placing a police car on top of the Institute’s Great Dome, complete with a dummy officer and a box of donuts inside. This feat of engineering and humour required meticulous planning and execution, embodying the spirit of creativity and mischief that defines the best practical jokes.

These historical hijinks remind us that, despite our differences, humour is a universal language. From the halls of ancient empires to the ivory towers of academia, the tradition of practical joking has endured, bringing joy, surprise, and sometimes befuddlement to the unsuspecting.

As we approach April 1st this year, let’s remember the lessons taught by history’s greatest pranksters: to approach life with a sense of humour, a dash of creativity, and, when necessary, a well-timed whoopee cushion.

By Tom Hancock

Puzzle Solutions

Mindbender:

1: Perfect storm

2: Two peas in a pod

3: Code breaker

HIGHEST RATED ROOFER IN SOMERSET! (52 ★★★★★ Google reviews)

“Fantastic responsive service. It’s the 2nd time I have used central roofing and on both occasions they turned up on time got on with the job and kept us informed on what was being carried out. Went above and beyond and assisted me in issues around insurance. I would recommend this company to anyone with roofing issues.”

Cat Lady

We used Central Roofing to take down an old flat roof and install another on our business premises at Knight Brothers Garage. The company was very reliable, they turned up when they said they would, the guys that did the work were very tidy and efficient. The work was completed in the time frame they set…we are more than pleased with the finished job.