LocalReach Somerton & Langport July 2024

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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.

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Garden View

This month – Fancy foliage

We all love flowers. They’re what gardening is all about and the fact that they’re relatively shortlived makes them extra-special.

But my garden can’t survive on flowers alone. It needs to look attractive all year round. This is where friendly foliage plants come in to their own.

Many non-evergreen plants have beautiful showy foliage between April and November, and we’d be mad not to take full advantage of it.

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Rodgersia pinnata is an excellent example. It has huge, attractive bronze, leathery leaves which are almost sculptural in appearance. As a bonus it sends up feathery cream flowers in the summer.

It like soil which doesn’t dry out so a pebble mulch will work brilliantly, and it complements the plant.

Hostas have truly beautiful leaves, but I’ve tried and failed with them on many occasions because my garden is home to a race of hosta-chomping super slugs. I’ve had some success with the variety “Frances Williams” which is less prone to attack though I still need to go on slug patrol every evening! Mostly though, I now plant them in pots armed with copper rings. Slugs hate copper and my hostas can grow (mostly) unmolested.

Hostas do like a moist soil so if yours is on the dry side work in plenty of compost or manure at planting time and mulch well...preferably with something sharp to act as a deterrent to the slimy brigade.

I have had much more success with ferns. They are the most useful plant for shade. My favourite is the ostrich-plume fern, Matteuccia struthiopteris. Plant them under trees and shrubs and watch the stunning lime-green foliage unfold each spring.

New Zealand flax, Phormium tenax has bold, dramatic fountains of spiky purple foliage is my absolute favourite foliage plant. It isn’t frost-hardy, so during extended sub-zero temperatures it will need protecting. If you’re concerned, choose the much hardier green variety…but honestly, the purple on is worth the risk.

Many people overlook grasses when they think about foliage but there are some seriously attractive varieties. Try Miscanthus sinensis “Zebrinus.” The leaves look like green ribbons, striped with yellow and reach chest height. Cut it down to ground level each February.

Finally, if you have the space, for a real ‘in-yourface’ fancy foliage try the golden-leaved Catalpa bignonioides “Aurea.” Grow it as a large bush. Prune each stem back to a sprouting bud around knee-height each spring and mulch with manure at the same time. It will reward you with leaves as big as Frisbees! Now that’s really fancy foliage.

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.

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Calling all Widows - this is the Group especially for you

Somerton Merry Widows meet on 1st and 3rd Tuesdays every month at 10:30am in The Barn at The White Hart in Somerton.

On 2nd July Mo Fletcher will tell us about the Cary & Somerton Community Shed.

No speaker in August as we may be involved with family so just coffee and chat.

Coffee meetings on 16/7 and 20/8, share ideas, book swap, half inch club and lunch groups to join.

Join us for a warm welcome, sympathetic ear and lots of laughter.

Contact Dru 07799262047, perrydruscilla@ gmail.com

Fun and games at the Somerton Memory Cafe

Somerton Memory Café meets on the 4th and 18th July at West Street Church from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. We provide a varied program of activities for anyone with a memory problem. We are a very social group and have a lot of fun and laughter. Tea and cake is provided and an opportunity to meet other people in a similar situation.

The Cafe is run by Somerton Good Neighbours and we have plenty of volunteers to help with activities.

For more details contact Annette Sparks on 01458 258947.

Somerton is all set for a summer of music & art

Bac looks set to be a sell-out. There are plenty of free events too including the Live Music Weekender on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th July when the town’s pubs will play host to seven live bands.

www.somertonartsfestival.co.uk for information and tickets.

Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch - Summer

Lunch 6th July

RAFA-MSB Summer Lunch is on Saturday 6th July at 12:15 pm in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. This will be a 2/3 course formal lunch with choices for each course and includes aperitif, coffee, mints and port.

The Lunch is open to all Branch members plus friends and families, members from any RAFA Branch, Current and Ex-RAF Personnel and Reserves, Current and Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel.The Branch covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas.

Contact Secretary rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057 for details.

Evolver Prize 2024 Exhibition

Evolver is the Wessex Arts and Culture guide. Artists, photographers, and designers compete annually for a cash prize of £1,000 and for their work to be published on the front cover of the July/ August edition of Evolver Magazine.

This exhibition will feature the winning entry alongside the 49 runners-up. July 6th – August 10th. Tuesday 11:00am - 5:00pm, Wednesday to Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm.

Website: acearts.co.uk

With only weeks to go until the 36th annual Somerton Music & Arts Festival begins, tickets are selling out fast.

Tier Two tickets for Somerstock are already gone and Fleetwood

Somerton Concert Band summer concert

Saturday 6th July, 7:30pm at Long Sutton village Hall.

Tickets on the door. £7, children under 16 free.

Refreshments during the interval.

We play a wide selection of music to suit all tastes.

Somerstock photo credit: Victoria Welton Photography

Preserved Tomatoes

The perfect way to use up a glut of summer tomatoes. They will lend a touch of the Mediterranean to pasta dishes or a summer sandwich

Preparation time: 10 mins

Cooking time: 2-3 hours

Makes: 1 medium-sized jar

Ingredients:

300g cherry or small tomatoes

Olive oil to brush and store.

Method:

Preheat the oven to 120°C (fan) / gas mark 1. Cut the tomatoes in half and arrange them cut-side up on an oiled baking tray. Lightly brush the tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until they are reduced in size and appear dark and wrinkled.

For storage, transfer the tomatoes into a sterilized jar and fill with olive oil until the tomatoes are fully submerged. They can be kept refrigerated for up to two weeks. For longer preservation, place the sealed jars in a large pot of water and heat until it simmers, then let them simmer gently for 45 minutes. Allow the jars to cool in the water. Stored this way, the tomatoes will keep for up to six months in a cool, dark place. After opening, consume the tomatoes within two weeks and store them in the refrigerator.

You can have fun with flavourings, adding herbs like fresh rosemary or thyme, peeled garlic cloves or chilli flakes.

A Good Read

The Games: A Global History of the Olympics

by David Goldblatt

There are many books about the Olympics but Goldblatt’s insightful and thoroughly researched narrative of the sporting event stands out for its depth and breadth. He is known for his detailed sociological insights and doesn’t disappoint here as he explores the development of the Olympics throughout its modern existence, beginning in 1896. He examines how the Olympics have been a stage for not only showcasing athletic prowess but also for playing out international conflicts and alliances. His analysis spans the ideological battles during the Cold War, the controversies of boycotts, and the dynamics of gender and race that have evolved over the decades. He even digs into the commercialization and the corruption that have plagued the Games, providing a critical look at the bodies that organize and profit from them.

Goldblatt does not shy away from discussing how the Games have both challenged and reinforced social norms and inequalities, making it a reflective mirror for the host cities and nations. His discussions on the urban and economic impacts on host cities like Montreal, Beijing, and Rio are particularly enlightening, revealing the sometimes devastating aftermath of the Games.

Don’t be put off by the fact this is a weighty nonfiction. The prose is engaging and accessible, ensuring that The Games is not just for historians or sports enthusiasts but for anyone interested in the broader implications of this global event. The inclusion of personal stories and athlete perspectives adds a human element to the historical facts, making the narrative even more compelling.

This is a critical, comprehensive, and captivating read. Goldblatt’s prowess as a historian is well-

established, but he’s also a terrific storyteller, and I think the book will enhance anyone’s enjoyment of The Paris Olympics this summer.

Ready Steady Mo!

By Mo Farah and Kes Gray, illustrated by Marta Kissi

Ready Steady Mo! is a delightful children’s book that encourages young readers to get moving, have fun, and embrace the joy of running. Coauthored by Olympic champion Mo Farah and seasoned children’s author Kes Gray, this book is a playful, energetic read that will captivate kids with its rhyming text and vibrant spirit.

The narrative follows a simple rhythmic structure that mimics the pace of running, making it an excellent read-aloud choice. The text encourages children to run anywhere and everywhere – through parks, into jungles, and even up to the moon, suggesting a limitless world of possibilities.

Marta Kissi’s illustrations add a dynamic and colourful layer to the story. Her artwork is lively and full of motion, perfectly capturing the exuberance of the text. Kissi’s use of bright, bold colours and expressive characters from a variety of backgrounds means that each page bursts with energy and promotes diversity and inclusivity.

Ready Steady Mo! is more than just a story; it’s an invitation for kids to explore and enjoy the physicality of their world. The book is an excellent tool for parents and educators to inspire activity and imagination in children. Farah, Gray, and Kissi have collaborated to create a vibrant and motivational book that is sure to become a favourite among young readers.

By Tash Donovan

Busy July with the Garden Club

Somerton Gardeners Club have two events planned in July. On the 10th July we have a club visit to a garden in Moor Lane, Ilchester which starts at 6:30pm.

On Saturday 20th July we have a coach trip to St Fagans in Wales. The coach leaves at 8:30am from the Old Dairy returning at 7:00pm. Cost £27. St Fagans is a National Museum with a castle, late 16th century Mansion House and garden. There are various exhibitions including a new one remembering the First World War. Contact Annette Sparks 01458 258947

Meet us at the Village Fete

There is something really nice about a village get-together, that’s why we are delighted to be included in the High Ham Parish Summer Fete on Saturday 13th July. Do come along and say hello. We hope to have an all-age craft tent, so come along for a few minutes of entertainment. Free literature will be available to those interested in finding out more about the Christian faith. Alternatively join us on a Sunday 11:00am & 6:30pm, at Low Ham Chapel, near Langport, TA10 9DT.

www.lowhamchapel.com

Had your fill of politics?

…but please do not let that deter you from coming along to the next meeting of the Somerton History Society to hear local historian Janet Seaton talk about Political Somerset of old. The meeting is held on Thursday 25th July in the Parish Rooms in Somerton starting at 7:30pm. Doors open at 7:00pm for refreshments. Members come for free, but guests are very welcome at £4 per person.

Saturday 27th July, Baltonsborough

Car Boot Sale

Baltonsborough Village Hall and Playing Fields, 9:00am – Noon.

Free entry for Buyers. Sellers 8:00am / Buyers 9:00am. £8 per pitch if booked in advance. £10 per pitch on the day.

£11 Table Hire available on the day, Cash only. £10 Refundable deposit on return of the table.

Bacon butties and hot drinks available in the Hall.

Please book your pitch via email janhorwoodsmith@gmail.com

Somerset Chamber Choir 40th Anniversary Concert in Wells Cathedral

27th July at 7:00pm. Tallis’s extraordinary 40-part masterpiece

Spem in Alium, in a dramatic arrangement featuring cornetts & sackbuts, will form the centrepiece of this very special concert which will also include exuberant music by H Praetorius, JS Bach’s dazzling Magnificat in D, the soaring lines of Handel’s sublime Eternal Source of Light Divine, and one of Purcell’s most popular works, Come Ye Sons of Art.

Box Office: somersetchamberchoir.org 0333 666 3366 (booking fee applies).

Tickets £10 - £30, under 16s half price.

LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES

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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.

Make every millisecond count for your business’s website

Imagine your website greeting visitors with the same warmth and firmness as a handshake. That’s the kind of first impression you want to make in the digital world, where Google’s research indicates you have a mere 50 milliseconds to shine. Blink, and the moment’s gone.

But here’s the good news: a website that’s quick to load, easy to navigate, and pleasing to the eye can make that fraction of a second count. It’s about creating an online space that radiates trust and professionalism from the very first glance.

At Digi Soci, we’re all about making those milliseconds work in your favour. With years of experience tucked under our belts, we’re the go-to local marketing gurus in Somerset. We believe in keeping things simple, setting achievable goals, and then smashing them, rather than overwhelming you with technical jargon.

Our mission is clear: to ensure your business is represented accurately and memorably. We’re here to make sure your existing and future customers carry a lasting image of your brand. And we achieve this by maximizing every penny of your marketing budget to deliver results that you can see and feel.

So, why not give us a ring or drop by our website? Let us show you how we turn brief digital encounters into lasting business relationships. Call us on 01458 767043 or head over to www.digisoci.co.uk/contact-us/ to get the ball rolling.

Let’s create a website that not only meets expectations but exceeds them, making every millisecond — and every visitor — count.

Joe’s Doors can simply transform your kitchen by replacing the doors, panels and trims.

With a huge range of kitchen styles to choose from, this cost effective, fuss free service, can be completed in under two days and best of all you don’t even need to empty the cupboards!

Call now to take advantage of a free survey, free quote and free design service....with no pressure selling.

Transform your worktops with Quartzize stone overlays

Why replace your worktops when this unique quartz overlay simply fits over your existing surface. Here are some of the amazing benefits:

•Timeless - Looks clean and modern.

•Hygienic - A perfectly smooth surface.

•Easy care - Wipe with a neutral cleaner.

•Durable - Tough and scratch resistant.

•Easily Installed - Fitted in less than a day.

Crossword

Word Search

Across

1 Hit, clouted (6)

4 Abundance (6)

8 Institution (12)

9 Precise, singular (10)

12 Required (6)

13 Like better (6)

16 Amenities (10)

17 Advanced culture, society (12)

18 Prompt (6)

19 Rides a bike (6)

Down

1 Ceasing (8)

2 Watched, looked (8)

3 Deliberation, Cogitation (13)

5 Outstanding (13)

6 Cares for (5)

7 Concern, problem (5)

10 Accredited, authentic (8)

11 Gifts (8)

14 Stiff (5)

15 Father’s brother (5)

Mindbenders

Summer of Sports

At the time of writing we don’t yet know who wins the Euros… But whether your team did well, or you lost the sweepstake, there’s not much time to ponder over things, as the Olympic Games are upon us. The 2024 Olympics in Paris will feature 32 different sports and a total of 329 medal events. Breakdancing is making its debut, while karate is being removed.

Did you ever wonder if any of our top athletes are spectacle-wearers, and if so, how do they manage when they cannot afford to fail?

Contact lenses are an obvious choice for their ease of use and discreet appearance (or lack of appearance at all!)

When contact lenses cannot be used for a variety of reasons (health and eye-conditions, nature of sport, etc), sports specific eyewear is recommended.

For contact sports, it is essential, that the frames are rounded and do not have sharp corners, as well as specialist glazing is required for the protection of the eyes.

For swimming, an ergonomic design is required for streamlined performance.

Shooters may or may not require occluders, but a contrast tint is essential.

Cyclists need to be able to see the road as well as their navigation computer.

Helmets for riding or cycling pose another problem by restricting the choice on spectacleframes, needing to fit under.

As you can tell, choosing your sports spectacles is no easy business.

If you’d like specialist advice from professionals, whether you’re part of Team GB or a sports enthusiast, Eyetech Opticians is there to help you.

To book your sports-eyewear consultation, call 01458 442178.

We O f f er : Time to talk, time to listen. Relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Professional advice explained simply. Quality products.

The most advanced optical lenses from all manufacturers.

Drayton Village Fair

Saturday 31st August 11:00am - 5:00pm

Raising Money for Local Charities and Village Causes. Dog Show, Interesting and Classic Cars, Local History Marquee, Live Music, Food & Drink, Children’s Activities inc. Punch & Judy, Stalls & Tombola.

Admission £2.50. Free Parking on site. Applications from stall holders welcome.

School St, Drayton TA10 0LN.

Contact: draytonsomerset@gmail.com

Jacqui Price: 07749 822333

Martial art lessons, Long Sutton Village Hall

Suitable for everyone over the age of 5. Every Tuesday night, children 7:00pm8:00pm, Adults 7:00pm9:00pm. Only £3.50 per hour. Phone Terry or Mark on 01458250173 or 07749849798

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

The Shipham Inn (Somerset - BS25 1TW) would like to welcome new members to join their regular Mah-Jong Group.

Whether you’re a novice, experienced 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. 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month: 7:30pm start. Free.

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

Stepping Stones Bereavement Group

We meet on the third Wednesday of every month at The Barn, St.Cleers, Polham Lane from 10:30am to 12 noon.

There is no charge and the meetings are open to all. A warm welcome and a chat over a cuppa as we help each other on the grief journey.

For more information or just a chat please ring Denise on 01458 898242. Look forward to meeting you.

Play Kurling and socialise with others at the Princess Theatre

Indoor Kurling every Thursday 11:00am to 1:00pm at the Princess Theatre, Burnham-onSea. Kurling is becoming one of the most popular activities of the week. Kurling is a great way to be active without working up a sweat (depending on how competitive you are!) and to socialise with others. Kurling can be played by all ages and all abilities.

To participate will cost just £3 per person payable at the box office on arrival.

No need to book, just turn up and play or email keithspendlove55@gmail.com for information.

Gentlemen - Ilminster Community Choir Needs You!

Ilminster Community Choir welcomes singers of all ages and abilities who want to sing for pleasure. We are led by Chris Grabham who gives us the confidence to sing songs from a wide range of genres including folk, pop and gospel.

We sing four-part harmonies and currently need new members to join our bass and tenor sections.

No auditions; No expectation to read music; No joining fee; Free taster session.

Ilminster Arts Centre - Thursdays at 7:30pm.

Interested in joining? Call Graham 07804 883777

Website: ilminstercommunitychoir.co.uk Facebook.com/IlminsterChoir

Auracast: Game changing connectivity for hearing aids!

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

For people with hearing loss, navigating public spaces like train stations, airports, theatres, or conference centres can be challenging. Background noise and a lack of clear audio can make it difficult to follow conversations or enjoy entertainment.

Enter Auracast, a revolutionary new system poised to transform the hearing aid experience. Built on Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE) technology, Auracast offers a range of benefits that promise clearer sound, greater flexibility, and a more streamlined user experience.

How does Auracast work?

Whilst the telecoil, a long-standing assistive technology on many hearing aids, has been helpful, but it has limitations. Unlike the telecoil, which relies on a magnetic loop system installed in specific locations, Auracast uses Bluetooth LE. This allows a single audio source (like a TV, microphone or public address system) to broadcast audio directly to any compatible receiver, including hearing aids. This opens doors to a more connected and inclusive environment. Users simply select the desired audio stream on their hearing aids using a device like a smart phone, eliminating the

need for bulky equipment or specific seating arrangements. Auracast also transmits high-quality digital audio, eliminating the muffled sounds and background noise. This translates to a clearer, more natural listening experience.

Early stages

While still in its early stages of being rolled out, Auracast represents a significant leap forward in hearing aid technology. As manufacturers integrate Auracast into their devices, users can expect a more personalised and seamless listening experience across various situations. This technology holds the potential to improve quality of life for millions of people with hearing loss, allowing them to participate more fully in the world around them.

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 | Westbury: 01373 823076

Come and join us!

Somerton u3a is a thriving organisation providing over 50 interest groups for people who are partially or fully retired. We have a coffee morning and invited speaker on the fourth Friday of the month at the Edgar Hall from 10:00am. There are opportunities to join groups with activities such as walking, bird watching, aviation, French conservation, garden visits, short mat bowls, cribbage, mahjong and many others. Come along and see what we do. Further details from Annette Sparks 01458 258947 or visit our website u3asites.org.uk/somerton

Have you ever wanted to try Artistic Swimming?

Club sessions held on Fridays from 7:15pm8:45pm at Station Rd pool, Taunton TA1 1NN. Or Tuesdays from 6:00pm - 7:00pm at Wellington School pool, Wellington TA21 8NT.

Adult only sessions alternate Saturdays from 5:00pm - 6:00 pm at Station Rd pool, Taunton. Everyone is welcome to come along and try Artistic Swimming. We take swimmers from age 7 upwards.

Please contact tauntonsynchro@gmail.com or call Alyson on 07903 557054 to arrange a free trial.

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. 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.

Parrett Community Shed are Angling for New Members

Join us at the Parrett Community Shed where members share skills, make new friends and work on creative projects. If you enjoy woodworking (or fancy just having a go) or simply wish to enjoy good company, you are welcome to join us.

Open to men and women of any skill level, our shed is a welcoming place to learn, teach and collaborate, come along and see what you can create. Visit us at the ‘Happy Garden’, Portfield Lane TA10 0NJ.

Find us on Facebook parrettcommunityshed@outlook.com

Could you volunteer with Age UK Somerset?

Could you volunteer to enhance the health and wellbeing of older people?

Age UK Somerset is searching for volunteers to train in, and deliver, Tai Chi QiGong or Sit, Fit and Fun sessions. Sit, Fit and Fun is a fun and friendly chair-based exercise session. Tai Chi QiGong is a series of 18 mindful movements for health and wellbeing. If you can spare an hour a week to volunteer with us, then please get in touch for more information.

No previous experience is necessary.

Contact: 01823 345627, volunteers@ageuksomerset.org.uk

Marie Curie are looking for a local Collection Box Coordinator

Can you spare a couple of hours monthly to become a collection box coordinator for Marie Curie, raising funds for our end of life care services in Somerset? This flexible and easy role helps us to raise valuable funds and awareness for our work in the local area, and helps us care for more people living with a terminal illness. The role involves distributing collection tins, banking donations and thanking venues in your local community. Volunteer as much time as you like.

Any questions, please email hannah.drury@ mariecurie.org.uk for information.

Branch members at the annual SW Area Reunion.

Are We What You Are Looking For?

Long Load Village Hall, Martock Road (B1365), Long Load TA10 9JX.

Are you looking for a Character Small Hall with a fitted Kitchen to hold Family Parties, Group Meetings, Demonstrations etc at a very reasonable cost?

Look no further, we may have just what you are looking for in Long Load Village Hall.

We can cater for Regular bookings or One Off booking just let us know what you need.

Please ring Ann Campbell on 01458 241202 for further details.

Cycling the Somerset 100 for Mental Health in Construction - Foundations Up Construction Team Up with Sweet Track Counselling

Foundations Up Construction joined a team from Sweet Track Counselling to complete the Somerset 100 Cycle ride on the 19th May to raise awareness for their low-cost counselling services. Sweet Track is a not-for-profit community interest company which offers free and affordable counselling, funded through donations and grants.

“It is fantastic to have raised over £1,500 for a great and local cause which is supporting young adults in the area. The event was really well organised and great fun. We had superb weather and the atmosphere was very supportive. They even had refuelling stations to take on snacks and water – which was very welcome!” says Charles from Foundations Up Construction.

Mental Health in construction is an issue which often goes unnoticed by the wider public. Over a quarter of all work-related illness in construction is caused by stress, depression and anxiety. It is so bad here in the UK, that every single working day 2 construction workers take their own lives. Men in the construction sector are the most likely to commit suicide, 2nd only to miners, being nearly twice as likely to do it than men in the general population. This trend is getting worst too.

Local organisations to support and help construction workers are a great way to address this serious problem. Sweet Track is based in

Glastonbury so they are in a position to help construction workers (and others from all walks of life) from all across Somerset by offering affordable counselling services to all local people who need it.

Having a qualified counsellor to discuss your difficulties and concerns provides a nonjudgmental space where problems can be aired and somewhere you will be listened to attentively. One of their experienced counsellor will work collaboratively with their clients to help you gain a greater understanding of themselves, whilst discovering coping strategies and enhancing overall well-being.

If you feel that you need support, contact Sweet Track, or you can make a donation on their Just Giving Page if you would like to support their work: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ sweettrackcounselling?utm_id=1&utm_ term=mgArVpGy9

For more information contact Charles Dowson or Philippa Edwards at Foundations Up Construction, Coleford, Radstock BA3 5RX info@foundationsup.co.uk, 01373 813 438.

Puzzle Solutions

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Simply Oven Cleaning

ROOFING SERVICES – New Roofs, Roof Repairs, Under Tile Felting, Ridge Tiles

UPVC ROOFING SERVICES – UPVC Fascias & Soffits, Guttering, Bargeboards, Cladding, Dry Verge Systems

SINGING LESSONS ROOFING

ROOF & UPVC CLEANING SERVICES – Roof Cleaning and Fungicide Treatment, UPVC Cleaning

www.local-homecare.co.uk

Express Yourself: Let yourself shine!

Boost Your Self-Esteem: People will notice!

Feel Happier: Singing is a natural anti-depressant.

Train Your Ears: Appreciate music in new ways.

Sharpen Your Mind: Concentration and memory will improve. Feel Healthier: Your immune system gets a boost too!

“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

Anderson

job.