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Sowing Seeds and Planting Trees in February
Whilst your garden might appear dormant in February gardeners certainly are not, working outside planting trees and shrubs and inside sowing seeds.
Gardeners need to be ever flexible according to the delights of the British weather and never more so than in February which is a busy time in the garden. When the days are fine, the ground not frozen or waterlogged it is the perfect month to get outside and plant trees and shrubs. When the weather is inclement why not busy yourself in the greenhouse, the potting shed or in your kitchen sowing seeds that will bear fruit or bloom in the months ahead.
Planting trees and shrubs
February is the perfect time to plant trees or large shrubs in your garden. Frozen ground will make it difficult and waterlogged soil will determine what
you plant but if the conditions are cool and dry then February is the perfect planting time.
What to plant
Shrubs to plant include Witch Hazel, Winter Jasmine and Mahonia’s which will provide beautiful foliage and flowers later in the year.
The size of your garden will determine which trees you plant. Planting an oak or horse chestnut that could grow to an immense size is unadvisable in a small garden so instead chose a Paperbark Maple or an ornamental cherry, or small fruit tree.
How to plant
Make sure root balls are teased out (except for shrubs who do not like root disturbance, for example magnolias). The hole needs to be no deeper than the root ball but around three times wider. Add some organic matter. Soak the root ball in water for around half an hour before placing carefully in the hole and filling and firming. Stake and shield from rodents. Water in well.
Sowing Vegetable Seeds
February is a great time to sow vegetable seeds. Leeks, fennel and artichoke can be sown indoors as can broad beans, peas, carrots, early beetroot, parsnips, summer cabbage and spinach.
Early potatoes can also begin the ‘chitting’ process on a windowsill. If you have space, you can also begin growing herbs like basil on your windowsill.
Sowing flowers
Some of the best flowers to grow from seed are sweet peas, which are the sweet smell of summer. Seed catalogues are full of some wonderful varieties from ‘Spencer’ to ‘Anne Gregg’ to ‘Noel Sutton’ or a general mix.
Cosmos are also a great flower to grow from seed and these can be sown inside from February as can some marigolds, lupins and delphiniums. By growing from seed, you can enjoy seeing tiny seeds grow into stunning floral displays and you could save yourself a lot of money on established plants later in the year. You also get an immense choice.
Chose a specialist seed compost, peat free composts work well, for best results and be sure to label your containers clearly.
The weather might be bracing in February, but it is a busy month for planting and sowing, whether outside or in.
By Rob Bullock
Vicky’s Beauty Box in Long Sutton: Expert
Beauty Care You Can Trust
Exciting news for Long Sutton! Vicky’s Beauty Box, led by the highly experienced Vicky Dorfman, has opened its doors within Paloma Beauty and Wellness, offering top-tier beauty treatments. With over 35 years of experience in London’s Belgravia and alongside a medical professional for 25 years, Vicky brings a wealth of expertise to her treatments.
Vicky holds a range of advanced qualifications that set her apart. From laser treatments to skin peels and microneedling, and with a Level 7 qualification in anti-wrinkle treatments, fillers, and skin boosters, Vicky ensures every client receives high-quality, professional care.
At Vicky’s Beauty Box, clients can expect a personalised experience with modern treatments designed to leave them feeling refreshed, confident, and looking their best. From rejuvenating skincare to advanced anti-ageing solutions, Vicky combines the latest techniques with a personal touch, all within the welcoming space of Paloma Beauty and Wellness.
Vicky’s Beauty Box is in Long Sutton now. Not all Victoria’s keep secrets – Vicky’s secret is out, and it’s all about bringing top-tier beauty treatments to the heart of the Southwest.
Book your appointment today and discover what makes Vicky’s Beauty Box a standout addition to Southwest’s beauty scene..
Call: 0780 2262 922, Instagram: @vicky_beautybox Paloma Beauty and Wellness - The Byre, Cross Lane, Long Sutton, Langport TA10 9LR.
Instagram: @vicky_beautybox CALL: 0780 2262 922
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.
local company offering competitively priced and professional solutions to all our customers.
Wetroom and walk-in shower specialists
Fully Qualified and Insured
10 choices of wall panel
Wide range of floor coverings
An Evening with Champion National Hunt Jockey - Harry Cobden
Harry Cobden will be talking about his career in National Hunt racing at Long Sutton Village Hall on Thursday 30th January. Evening in aid of Long Sutton Church and a Charity of Harry’s choice.
Tickets £20 from Long Sutton Village Shop or contact suecreegan@outlook.com or mariandraper737@btinternet.com. Free drink on arrival, bar, refreshments and raffle. Doors open at 7:00pm for 7:30pm.
An evening not to be missed!
Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch Meeting, Monday 3rd February
RAFA-MSB will meet on Monday February at 11:00am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS for a presentation by Roger Cowie entitled “From Russia with Love” and Branch Meeting preparing for the March AGM plus optional Lunch & Drinks from the Club Menu & Bar.
RAFA-MSB covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA Members, Current & Ex-RAF Personnel & Reserves, Current & Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of the RAF Family & Members of the public that support RAFA aims & purpose welcome.
Contact Secretary raf.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01456 224057
February 3rd meeting, North Somerset Hard of Hearing group
The North Somerset Hard of Hearing Social group meets on the 1st Monday of each month, 2:00pm to 4:00pm at the Conservative Club, 24-26 Alexandra Parade, Westonsuper-Mare BS23 10X. The topic is the Middle East and the Suez crisis.
The meetings are a mixture of speakers, chat and useful information.
Hearing aid batteries available. Cost £4 to include refreshments.
Come and Sing Day, Long Sutton Saturday 8th February
The Mid-Wessex Singers and their Musical Director, Alice Dicker invite you to a Come and Sing Day on the 8th February at Long Sutton Village Hall from 9:30am until 5:00pm. Bring your own refreshments, teas and coffees will be provided.
The repertoire will have the theme of ‘Nature’ and will include some choruses from The Creation by Haydn. Cost £20.
To register interest and for any further information please contact our Secretary, Sheena Smith by e-mail on info@midwessexsingers.co.uk, through the website at www.midwessexsingers.co.uk or on 07768 704883.
Wouldn’t it be marvellous to have guaranteed success growing houseplants?
You are invited to the next Sedgemoor Gardens Club talk on Tuesday 11th February - ‘Success with Houseplants’, given by an expert speaker from the Gardens Group Gold Club.
We meet in All Saints Hall in Langport from 7:00pm onwards to chat and have the opportunity to take part in monthly competitions. Annual membership is £15 or £25 per couple while visitors pay only £3. Refreshments available.
Please contact our secretary on 01458 259025 for more information or just turn up.
www.sedgemoorgardensclub.co.uk
Learning about a display garden
Somerton Gardeners Club will host a talk on Wednesday 12th February about the intricacies of putting on a show garden, by Club Chairman Mike Leech. Meetings are held at St Cleers Chapel at 7:30pm. Join us for an interesting talk and a cup of tea. Visitors are always welcome. Come and find out more about our exciting 2025 programme of events.
For more information call Annette Sparks on 01458 258947
Stepping Stones Bereavement Group. New Year - New Start
We meet every third Wednesday of the month at The Barn, St Cleers, Polham Lane, Somerton from 10:30am till 12 noon. Coffee or tea and biscuits and a chance to chat with others who know what bereavement feels like. The meetings are free and friendly. The February meeting is on Wednesday 19th. Hope you can make it. Denise Peacock 01458 898242
Give your brain a workout... at 7.30pm on Thursday 27th February in the Parish Rooms, Somerton where the Somerton History Society will be holding a history quiz. Members come for free (annual subscriptions are now due) but guests are very welcome at £4.00 per head. For more information contact j.banbury@mypostoffice.co.uk
February talk on Photography
Somerton u3a’s monthly coffee morning will be held on Friday 28th February at the Edgar Hall at 10:00am. Our speaker will be BEN PULLETZ.
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Somerton & Langport/TA11, TA10!
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Please send us all your news, events and information. We can give you 100 words FREE OF CHARGE each month, plus you can upload a photo. Just fill in the form on the Community Notices page of our web site www.localreach.co.uk/community-notices
• 100% guaranteed monthly delivery by ROYAL MAIL
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Ben is a local, very talented young photographer, specialising in wildlife. He has exhibited his work on several occasions at No1 West Street, Somerton. Coffee and biscuits will be available. Visitors are welcome to join us and find out more about our 2025 programme of events.
For more information contact Annette Sparks on 01458 258947.
Glastonbury Armed Forces And Veterans Breakfast Club
We are a group of Veterans & Serving Members of His Majesties Armed Forces whose ethos, like other Veterans Breakfast Clubs around the UK & the World, is mutual support. It works because we have a similar humour & outlook on on life. There is no formal Membership and no Fees. We meet every Wednesday at 08:30 for Breakfast at 09:00.For details of where we meet e-mail GlastonburyAFVBC@gmail.com or phone 07929 087260.
West Pennard Garden Club… Come and join us
We are friendly, enthusiastic gardeners. 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
Happy New Year from Somerton Memory Cafe
Somerton Memory Cafe would like to thank the following organisations for their support last year. Take Note Choir, Pawsability, Jane Cobbs, Tess and Brodie the PAT dog, and the One Stop Shop. Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year. The cafe opens on the first and third Thursday of the month in West Street Church Hall. There is a warm welcome for anyone with dementia or memory problems. There are activities, games and a chance to socialise with others in a safe environment. Information available from Annette Sparks 01458 258947
Pension Income Options: Flexi-Access Drawdown Vs Annuity
Approaching retirement and considering how to commence your pension income? Whether income should be accessed via Flexi-Access Drawdown, an Annuity, or a combination of the two will depend on individual circumstances and what is important to you in retirement.
Flexi-Access Drawdown
Flexi-Access Drawdown, as the name suggests, allows you to control the amount you access from your pension, taking as little or as much as you need at that time. The pension will remain invested and therefore is subject to market movements: values will go up and down.
Advantages
• Inheritance – The pension can be passed to your chosen beneficiaries on your death.
• Flexible Income – Income can be varied whether changing monthly income or lump sum withdrawals.
• Growth Opportunity Potential – The pension remains invested.
Disadvantages
• Investment risk – The pension remains invested: values can go down as well as up.
• Exhausted – You may outlive your pension.
Annuity
Transferring your pension to an annuity provider
that guarantees to pay a regular income until death. Several factors impact the amount of income, including age, health, interest rates, pension value, market rates, and the annuity features selected.
Advantages
• No Investment Risk – Income is not impacted by market conditions.
• Financial Security – Regular guaranteed income for life.
• Enhanced Annuity – Health conditions that impact life expectancy can increase the amount of income.
Disadvantages
• No Flexibility – Once in payment, there is no opportunity to adjust income.
• Inheritances – Some features can protect part of your annuity purchase amount; however, this reduces the regular income amount.
Flexi-Access Drawdown and Annuities share similarities including tax-free cash accessibility, income being taxable, and Normal Minimum Pension Age.
Get in touch with your local expert, Jessica Copp DipPFS on 07583 425566 or jessica.copp@carterdawes.com to discuss retirement income options.
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.
Crossword
Word Search
Across
1 Herbaceous perennial with edible stalks (7)
8 Itsy bitsy, teeny weeny, yellow polka dot
______ (6)
9 The Moor of Venice, Shakespeare play (7)
10 Type of biscuit (6)
11 About-face (7)
12 Picked, selected (6)
16 Composer of Fantaisie-Impromptu (6)
20 Sang A Perfect Day and Walk on the Wild Side (3,4)
21 Tropical lizard (6)
22 Andalucian town (7)
23 Pollen-producing part of a flower (6)
24 Aerial, signal receiver (7)
Down
2 Enmity, contempt (6)
3 Infused, fermented (6)
4 Appreciate, enjoy (6)
5 _______ West, Dalton and Spall (7)
6 Bystander, spectator (7)
7 Explanation of how the universe began (7)
13 Astronomical event, can be solar or lunar (7)
14 Beloved, favoured (7)
15 Innovator (7)
17 Anne ______, second wife of Henry VIII (6)
18 Contusion, blemish caused by injury (6)
19 UK’s smallest bird of prey (6)
Mindbenders
Solutions: Turn to page 18
Small and Large Screen Entertainment this February
With new releases and returning favourites February is a great time for those who enjoy curling up at home in front of the TV or a night out at their local cinema
February evenings are long, but with so many great tv programmes, some outstanding live sporting events returning this month, and some excellent new movie releases there is something for everyone. These are some of my highlights.
Large Screen
Captain America: Brave New World
Eagerly anticipated for release on 14th February and starring Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson the new Captain America, taking over from Chris Evans, this is the fourth movie in the Marvel series. Viewers will remember Wilson as the Avenger Falcon. In true Captain America style following the election of Thaddeus Ross (played by Harrison Ford) Wilson finds himself tasked to uncover the masterminds of a major international incident.
Love Hurts
This quirky and exciting comedy action movie is directed by Jonathan Eusebio and starring Ke Huy Quan as a realtor who is drawn back into a life of crime that he thought he’d left as his crimelord brother makes him confront his past.
Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy
The fourth instalment of Helen Fielding’s hilarious comedy is set for a Valentines Day release and sees Renee Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Emma Thompson reprise their roles. The story picks up with Bridget now in her fifties and widowed after the death of Mark Darcy (Colin Firth). Bridget is a mum of two and begins an often-hilarious relationship with a much younger man played by the in-vogue actor Leo Woodall.
TV Highlights
The Six Nations and Super Bowl LIX
As an unashamed sports fan February has two mega tv events from either side of the Atlantic to enjoy. Saturday 1st sees 2024 Rugby Union champions Ireland play England at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin in what is set to be the heavy weight match of the Six Nations tournament. Kick off 4.45pm ITV1.
American Football’s Super Bowl LIX takes place on February 9th from the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans and is on Sky Sports NFL Channel. Neutral observers are once again hoping for a nailbiter after Kansas City edged the 49ers last year.
The Summer I turned Pretty Series 3 – Prime Video
Romance and beautiful scenery abound as the third instalment of Jenny Han’s trilogy continues to follow New England teenager Belly Conklin’s flourishing from awkward child to stunning young woman and her love of two teenage brothers who she has holidayed with at their idyllic beachside home at Cousins Beach since a child. Will season three see Belly with brooding Conrad or outgoing Jeremiah?
Silent Witness Season 28 – BBC TV
Emilia Fox and David Caves reprise their roles as Dr Nikki Alexander and Jack Hodgson in the ever-popular BBC TV show, which will return once again in 2026, with iconic Maggie Stead joining the cast. With five new stories spread over ten episodes the opener is the disturbing mystery of an elderly woman whose body is discovered in a cave.
By Rob Bullock
Valentine’s Day & Beyond - Find a Love Which Lasts Forever
“We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us…” 1 John 3:16 (The Bible).
Find out more at Low Ham Chapel. All welcome. Situated in the village of Low Ham, near Langport. TA1O 9EY - on the T-junction.
‘Companionship through socialising and sharing experiences with likeminded people’
Street Branch Royal Naval Association covers all areas of Somerset and meets monthly in the Wessex Hotel, 15 High St. Street, Somerset BA16 0EF. Current and ex RN, RM, WRNS, RFA, Reserves and Commonwealth personnel are welcome. Associate membership is also available to relatives of current and former serving personnel, Sea/Marine Cadet staff and civilians.
Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Somerton & Langport/TA11, TA10!
LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 8,988 homes & businesses to ALL of Somerton & Langport/ TA11, TA10 postcode area. We help over 700 small local clubs, groups, associations, schools and churches with FREE OF CHARGE advertising.
Please send us all your news, events and information. We can give you 100 words FREE OF CHARGE each month, plus you can upload a photo. Just fill in the form on the Community Notices page of our web site www.localreach.co.uk/community-notices
• 100% guaranteed monthly delivery by ROYAL MAIL
• 95% of our advertisers rebook every month.
• 50% pages are given free of charge to the community.
Monthly meetings include a raffle and end with the option of staying for lunch at the hotel. Contact Chairman Mike Jayes, Tel: 07805 516946, Email: streetrnachair@gmail.com for details of the next meeting.
Local Homeless Shepherds Hut Charity Campaign
My name is Jill Meadows and I’m currently campaigning to raise funds to buy a much needed shepherds hut for Dairy House Charity and Root Connections CIC that provide refuge counselling and rehabilitation for the local Mendip homeless. The current shepherds hut in situ is used for a private bedroom for newcomers as they adjust before moving into the main farmhouse. This hut is failing. Please help me raise the funds for this much needed hut.
Visit the website to donate: www.connect-centre. org.uk/dairyhousefundraising
Thank you for your support.
Somerset Sight
Somerset Sight’s Dave’s Diner Christmas Lunch on Wednesday 4th December saw an amazing 40 people attend.
After a complimentary glass of fizz, a hot cooked two course lunch of Turkey and ham with all the trimmings was served, followed by delicious apple crumble or raspberry cheesecake with cream or custard, all served by the Somerset Sight team. Very yummy.
Everyone really enjoyed it especially the raffle prize winners.
A comment from one of our service users “Well, haven’t you all done a marvellous job in arranging this Christmas event for us, with getting the food out hot and promptly from the small kitchen area”
We also held a prize raffle and a Tile Appeal to raise funds to upgrade and enlarge the kitchen for future training classes for visually impaired people and private hire.
Somerset Sight is pleased to be able to offer this and other social gatherings and activities for over 3000 blind and partially sighted people throughout Somerset, along with the other services of emotional and technology support, mobile advisory service and resource centre, and volunteer visiting service.
If you are interested in any of these please call the office on 01823 333818
Why do I need prescription sun spectacles for skiing?
Now, that Christmas is a distant memory and January’s ‘New Year, New You’ enthusiasm has waned, some of us go looking for some winter sun on the ski slopes. Is there anything we should bear in mind though before setting off?
As soon as the sun comes out, we all know we should use some SPF to protect our skin against ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can burn the skin, risking premature ageing and skin cancer. What many people don’t realise is that UV can also cause serious, sometimes irreversible damage to the eyes. In fact, eyes are ten times more sensitive to UV light, than the skin, according to the Eyecare Trust.
Despite UV causing structural damage to the delicate eye tissues, we take inadequate precautions when protecting the eyes. Longer term damage can contribute to cataract formation and pterygium and others, but excessive short-term exposure causes red, burning, stinging and watery eyes.
As the snow reflects UV, there’s 80% more radiation on the ski slopes, than on the beach!
A wrapped lens which curves around the face is required to give all round protection against UV, glare, dust, debris and snow or ice. Wrapped sunglasses combined with appropriate sun lenses will give full optical and physical protection. The correct choice of tint will also give comfortable vision, improving contrast and colour perception.
So to protect your eyes against the elements, contact Eyetech for advice and to complete your ski kit for your upcoming ski trip.
Understanding Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
By Simon Swindells, Audiologist and Owner at South West Hearing Care
Tinnitus is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often described as the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears when no external sound is present. For many, it can be a persistent and frustrating experience, impacting everyday life and mental well-being. Tinnitus Awareness Week, scheduled for 3-9 February 2025, provides a vital opportunity to raise awareness of this condition, its link to hearing loss, and the available support.
Research shows a clear connection between tinnitus and hearing loss. In fact, the majority of people who experience tinnitus also have some degree of hearing loss. While the two are not always directly linked, the underlying mechanism often involves damaged hair cells in the inner ear. These cells are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain, and when they are damaged, the brain may interpret this loss of input as sound, leading to the experience of tinnitus.
Hearing loss can occur gradually due to age-related changes or as a result of prolonged exposure to loud noises. For those affected by both hearing loss and tinnitus, managing both conditions can feel overwhelming. However, advancements in hearing aids and other hearing technologies have provided significant relief for many. Hearing aids, for example, can restore auditory stimulation to the brain, helping it ’forget’ about tinnitus. They also help to reduce stress and additional hearing strain which is a trigger of tinnitus for many. A number of hearing aids also come with a range of tinnitus masking features as standard.
At South West Hearing Care, we encourage anyone experiencing tinnitus or hearing loss to seek professional advice. Our team is dedicated to providing tailored solutions, offering the support and expertise needed to manage these conditions effectively. Book a free hearing assessment by contacting us using the details below.
Simon has 20 years’ experience as an Audiologist and is the Owner of South West Hearing Care, with local clinics in Street, Somerton and Westbury. Somerton/Street: 01458 555533 | Westbury: 01373 823076 | www.swhearingcare.co.uk
South West Hearing Care are your local, South are independent hearing care specialists. hearing care specialists. With
A Good Read
An Absolutely
Remarkable Thing
By Hank Green
When 23-year-old graphic designer April May stumbles upon a mysterious, 10-foot-tall sculpture in New York City, she doesn’t think much of it - until she realizes she’s the first to document its existence. In a viral video that captures the imagination of millions, she dubs the figure “Carl.” But it soon becomes clear that Carl is not alone: identical statues appear across the globe, defying explanation and sparking feverish speculation. As April becomes a central figure in the media storm surrounding the “Carls,” she finds herself drawn deeper into a strange mystery that forces her to confront fame, humanity, and the thin line between truth and perception.
This thoughtful, fast-paced novel blends science fiction, mystery, and social commentary into an irresistibly readable package. Green deftly tackles complex themes like fame, power, and the internet’s influence on personal identity, crafting a story that feels both futuristic but painfully real and current. April May is flawed yet relatable and her journey offers a raw look at how quickly internet fame can turn toxic. The writing is witty, insightful, and fans of speculative fiction and social media culture will find An Absolutely Remarkable Thing an unmissable, thought-provoking ride, which will keep them turning pages well into the night.
LIFEL1K3
By Jay Kristoff
In a broken, post-apocalyptic future where technology blurs the line between human and machine, 17-year-old Eve Carpenter fights to survive. Living in a harsh wasteland and scraping by in robot battles to pay her grandfather’s medical bills, Eve’s life changes dramatically when she discovers the ruins of a destroyed android - one so advanced it appears almost human. This android, named Ezekiel, possesses secrets from Eve’s own past and holds the key to a future that could change the world. As Eve, her best friend Lemon, and a rogue group of misfits set out on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth, they’re pursued by powerful corporations and deadly, half-human killers known as Lifelikes.
This is a visceral, cinematic adventure packed with breathtaking twists and turns. Set in a vividly gritty world, the story combines cyberpunk, Mad Max-style wastelands, and a hint of romance, making it a compelling read for young adult fans of dystopian sci-fi. Kristoff’s worldbuilding is top-notch, immersing readers in a future where androids and humans are nearly indistinguishable, and technology questions the very meaning of humanity. Eve is a fierce, relatable protagonist, navigating intense emotions while making tough choices. LIFEL1K3 is a pulse-pounding action novel with emotional depth. It takes readers on a heart-pounding ride through a landscape where love, loyalty, and identity are all tested to their limits.
By Tash Donovan
Get talking! February 6th is Time to Talk Day!
Talking is good for our mental health. It can be a life saver and by talking to a friend or loved one or a professional at certain points in our lives we all benefit by sharing our troubles or worries
A trouble shared...
The English crime novelist Dorothy L Sayers once said, ‘a trouble shared is a trouble halved’ and it really can help. By talking about our worries, difficulties and health concerns whether to a friend or family member, or to a professional talking can help take a weight off our shoulders and help us deal with issues and, generally, support our mental health.
Time to Talk Day
This year mental health support groups are determined to make February 6th the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. Recent surveys have found that if we don’t talk, we can feel withdrawn and isolated and this in turn can
stop us feeling like socialising. Simply by not talking made almost a quarter of participants in studies feel that their mental health significantly worsens.
Founded in 2014
It is eleven years since the first Time to Talk Day which was set up by the charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in England as a way to end mental health stigma and discrimination. From the first Time to Talk Day it has encouraged us to have conversations with family, friends, or colleagues about mental health.
One in four
Research by Mind shows that a quarter of us will experience some kind of mental health problem at some point each year. One in six of us also report having a mental health problem, be it anxiety, depression, a phobia or panic disorder amongst others each week and this can really impact our lives and the lives of our loved ones.
Start talking
It might seem simple but how many of us make the time to talk with someone each day? Of course, many of us pass the time of day, we say hello, ask if someone is OK, but mostly we are not listening for an answer.
Effective communication starts with listening, being interested and wanting to take an interest can enrich a conversation and both sides can benefit. Setting aside time doesn’t always mean sitting face to face like you are interviewing someone. Sitting side by side in a café, pub, in the car, or talking whilst on a dog walk can offer someone the opportunity to share something important to them. No one expects you to know all the answers, but patience helps everyone and might help someone to open up again.
Take part
With many ways to take part in Time to Talk Day you could begin by having a conversation with someone, organise an event to bring a few people together, or look out for and join in an event someone else is organising or something on social media
For more information, please visit timetotalkday.co.uk
By Rob Bullock
Motoring News this February
Winter is still upon us in February, and we all need to take precautions when motoring but if you are thinking of changing vehicles February could be the month to do it. There are some interesting new vehicle releases and great used car deals
You might not think it, but if you are looking to buy a used car, then February is a good month to purchase. February is typically one of the slowest sales months in dealerships around the country and many are trying to clear out older models to make room for new ones.
Breaking the law on February mornings
Driving on cold winter mornings pose a challenge to everyone and in the winter months many of us break the law without even realising. If the temperature overnight has dipped below freezing many drivers start their cars and leave them unattended whilst windscreens de-ice. Leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running is an offence under Section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. If caught you could be fined but your vehicle could also be targeted by car thieves and stolen, and your insurance will be void.
Cool gadgets for February driving
Electromagnetic ice remover – £5.99
These inexpensive gadgets promise to detect and start de-icing your windscreens automatically. Many people choose to buy these small gadgets in multiples and place them on front and back windscreens plus side windows. They use molecular interference to clear windows and remove the need to warm up your vehicle before driving, stopping you breaking the law and risking your car being targeted by thieves.
Ryobi cordless high pressure tyre inflator - £32
Winter weather puts enormous strain on tyres often necessitating roadside inflation. Ryobi is a watchword for quality electric tools including cordless drills, clippers and power tools. There is a cordless Ryobi tool for almost everything using their ONE+ system, and now there is one for inflating your tyres quickly and effortlessly should you need to repair a damaged tyre.
Car news - New E Car of the Month –Audi A6 e-tron
With a high starting price, the fantastic futuristic looking Audi A6 e-tron is more expensive
than one of its closest rivals the BMW i5 and considerably more than it’s petrol- and dieselpowered Audi siblings. So, what do you get for the money?
In short - acceleration and range. Available in several power variants, each offering astonishing acceleration off the mark – the 543nhp model can get from 0-62 mph in an eye watering 3.9 seconds, and even the 362bhp model can do this is 5.4 second. Battery range is greater than its rivals the Mercedes EQE and the BMW i5. Audi puts this down to their latest EV technology and the car’s sophisticated aerodynamics.
Available in Sportback and Tourer, modern design is at the heart of the A6 e-tron and one design feature that stands out is the panoramic glass roof with its switchable transparency. The driver display is space age and along with the state-of-the-art design gives this car a futuristic feel that is sure to appeal to buyers.
By Rob Bullock
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