LocalReach Somerton & Langport October 2023

Join our army of LocalReach Community Editors...

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

Simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and fill in the form on the Community Notices page. We want to especially help the all the clubs, groups, associations, schools, churches that have very little income for advertising. Please spread the word!

Are you looking for more business?

Advertising in LocalReach is a fantastic way to reach all your existing, and potentially new customers. LocalReach is delivered by Royal Mail to all homes & businesses in your postcode area every month. It is packed with community notices, interesting articles and local businesses. A massive 98% of our advertisers rebook every month so we must be doing something right!

So, if you are looking for more business then contact us now. To advertise just go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and fill in the contact form or email hello@localreach.co.uk

Community Notices are free of charge

Please visit www.localreach.co.uk and click on Community Notices page

Deadline is 1st Oct for the November issues

Advertising from only £18+vat pm

Email hello@localreach.co.uk or call 01458 555503

Deadline is 1st Oct for the November issues

Disclaimer. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this magazine, we make no guarantee that the content will always be current, accurate or complete. We do not approve any of the services or products provided by advertisers in this magazine. Anyone using the products, services or advice from advertisers will need to carry out normal checks to make sure businesses are trustworthy and reliable. LocalReach Ltd 2023.

DO YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF LOCALREACH EACH MONTH?

LocalReach is delivered each month by ROYAL MAIL to ALL of the postcode areas, including all towns and villages within the postcode areas, to every resident and business, totalling 10,012 each month.

We take non deliveries very seriously and in the event of a non delivery being reported to us we follow the Royal Mail’s complaint procedure.

copies

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.

with the full address of the non

Garden View

This month – Blue is beautiful

they don’t like being transplanted; they insist on free-draining but not impoverished soil...the list goes on. But those gorgeous ultra-marine trumpet flowers are so desirable, especially at this time of year when not much else is flowering.

I’ve had my fair share of failures with autumn gentians over the years but still I keep trying to grow them.

Like most of us I haven’t the time to devote to primping and preening the truly diva-ish varieties: those are best left to alpine devotees. I’ve had most success with Gentian sino-ornata. These form low growing clumps some 15cm / 6inches high and 30cm / 12inches across. In the right conditions they will produce gorgeous bright blue trumpets with pale green stripes from September all the way to November.

Gentians have a reputation for being tricky little things to grow and it isn’t entirely undeserved. They’re a temperamental lot. They will only grow from fresh seed; they require the gardener to jump through hoops to get them to germinate;

Gentians prefer shade for at least part of the day and, I can’t stress this bit enough, there must be no lime in the soil, or they’ll turn up their pretty blue toes and expire. Unfortunately, as I garden in an area rich in limestone, (our house is actually built on a limestone ridge!) the only way I can grow them is in low, dish-shaped containers where they can spread out a bit. If you’re making up your own pots, use ericaceous compost with added grit to promote drainage. An even easier way to grow them is to buy them ready-potted. Garden centres will sell them at this time of year.

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

10am — 5pm 10am — 5pm 10am — 4pm

www.sycamorefarmshop.co.uk jonothebutch@gmail.com

In spite of their fussiness, they are hardy perennials. If you can get them established they’ll proliferate. In the garden divide them carefully, disturbing the roots as little as possible, every three years in the spring. If you’re growing them in pots then at the start of spring carefully scrape out some of the top compost and redress it with ericaceous compost. Keep it moist and in a partially shaded area and the flowers should return in the autumn. When the pot looks overcrowded you can try splitting them once the flowering season is over but often it is better just to buy new plants.

The trouble with gentians is that they’re addictive. Grow a few successfully and you’ll get greedy for those startling blue flowers and want more. Then you’ll start to think, ‘I wonder if they really are that difficult to grow from seed…’ and you’re lost.

Happy gardening.

By Rachael Leverton

Somerton textile artist shows the Somerset Levels in stitch

Momentum: memories, journeys and times is the current exhibition at ACEarts, Somerton. Somerton based Sandra Meech and artist Elizabeth Brimelow focus on their personal experiences of place, based on memories and glimpses of moments in time. The Somerset levels, climate change in art, collage and stitched observations from walks and journeys are all explored.

Until 7th October, Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00am - 5:00pm. Acearts, Market Place, Somerton. See acearts.co.uk for further info.

Local history - your shared heritage

Langport & District History Society’s autumn season of talks continues with “The Stuckeys and Stuckey’s Bank” at 7:30pm on 2nd October at the Langport & Huish Sports & Social Club, Eastover, Langport, TA10 9RZ.

Talks are free to members; visitors are very welcome, £4 per person. More details on how to join and lots of local history available on our website: langportheritage.org.uk

Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch October Meeting & Quiz

The Branch will hold a Branch Meeting with a Fun Quiz followed by an optional Lunch on Monday 2nd October at 11:00 am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. It covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA6, BA16, TA10 & TA11 areas.

Events are open to Branch Members, Members from other Branches, Current and Ex-RAF Service Personnel and Reserves, Current and ExCommonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of the RAF Family and Members of the public that support the aims and purpose of RAFA. Contact rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057

The Islands of Britain - their History and Natural History

The WEA Levels Branch is putting on a 6-week course on Tuesday evenings, 7:00pm to 8:45pm at Long Sutton Village Hall, from 10/10/2023 to

14/11/2023. Well respected tutor Stephen Parker will explore with us the history and archaeology of the small islands surrounding Britain, their wildlife and way of life, their contribution to defence, trade and industry. Please register with WEA (a national learning charity) by ringing 01132 002194 and quoting course code Q00010998.

The Friendly Local Club for all those Interested in Gardening

Are you interested in growing plants and gardening? Monthly talks at All Saints Hall in Langport and visits further afield. Meetings on the second Tuesday in the month 7:00pm - 7:30pm. Monthly competitions and shopping discounts. Spring Daffodil Festival.

Next Talk - Tuesday 10th October is ‘Lift the Latch - The Story of Two Gardens’ by Pauline and David Wright. We are a friendly bunch and would love to see some new faces. Visitors - £3 entrance fee and annual membership is £15 or £25 per couple.

www.sedgemoorgardensclub.co.uk

01458259025

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.

Roasted Cauliflower with Spinach, Saffron, Pine Nuts and Raisins

Method:

Blanch the florets for 1 minute, then drain. How to blanch.

Have ready a large bowl of ice-cold water, a slotted spoon, and a plate lined with a clean cloth or paper towel for draining.

Bring a large pot of water to boil over high heat. Just before adding the vegetables, add a generous pinch of salt.

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 min

Cooking time: 20 min

Ingredients:

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets.

3 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion thinly sliced.

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground turmeric

Pinch of saffron, infused in 150ml boiling water.

3 tbsp pine nuts, lightly toasted

75g raisins, soaked in warm water.

300g spinach leaves

1 tbsp butter (optional)

Add the florets to the pot in small batches so that the water continues to boil. After about 1-2 minutes remove them from the boiling water with a slotted spoon and plunge them into the ice bath to stop the cooking process in a process called ‘shocking’. When the florets are completely cool, remove them from the ice bath and drain on the towel-lined plate.

Heat the olive oil in a heavy saucepan then add the onion and a pinch of salt. Cook on a low heat until soft then add the ground spices and cook for another couple of minutes.

Add the blanched cauliflower florets. Pour in the saffron water, add the pine nuts, drained raisins and spinach leaves. Cook until the leaves have wilted and cauliflower is soft, and you have a thin sauce. Season to taste and add the butter, if using.

Bathing

• Easy accessible wet room showering

• Rapid bath out walk-in shower conversions

• Back to a warm deep soak with a walk-in bath

• Making bathing safer with simple changes; Grab rails, shower seats, raised WCs & slip resistant safety flooring

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

• Discounts for over 60s and ex-service personnel

Have you thought about an eye care scheme?

We all know that it is important to take care of our eyes. After all, we only have one pair and they need to last a lifetime. Good eye care starts with regular, comprehensive eye exams using state-of-theart technology, plus a highly qualified Optometrist.

But does the best quality eye care have to be expensive?

For those of us that want outstanding care at an affordable price, there is the option of different eye care schemes. At Eyetech Opticians, we offer Eyeplan.

Under such a scheme, you usually do not pay for your eye exam. Instead, you pay a monthly subscription by Direct Debit. Once you are a member, all your eye exams are included for total peace of mind, and you can have one as often as you need to.

High quality spectacles are just as important. When we choose our eyewear, many of us are looking for great value frames and lenses – this means the best pair for our budget, rather than the cheapest option. With an eye care scheme, frames and lenses can be purchased at reduced prices. So, you can choose the pair that suits your needs best.

With the cost of living increasing, knowing that all your eye care is covered, can be reassuring. Eyeplan also offers Accidental Damage Cover, so you don’t have to worry about a huge expense if your eyewear is accidentally broken.

Monthly costs for eye care schemes vary, but they are all designed to give excellent value for money. With our eye care scheme, Eyeplan, the fee is reduced if family members are joining together.

At Eyetech Opticians we take time to listen to you and to find the best eyecare solution for YOU. From frame selection with our Eyewear Stylist, to advice on complex prescriptions, eye care schemes or low vision support, we are here to listen.

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.

100 High Street, Street BA16 0EW 01458 442178

eyetech-opticians.co.uk

Eva DispensingOptician

Hallowe’en Howlers…or Not? Stewart Baldwin, OvenGleamers

A bit of fun this month from OvenGleamers – do you know which of these are true or which are not ie Howlers?!

1. The hydrochloric acid of the human digestive process is so strong a corrosive that it easily can eat its way through a cotton handkerchief and even through iron. But it does not endanger the walls of the stomach, which are protected by a film of sticky mucus (yuk!). Howler? No this is true!

2. One of the first things we learned in a Chemistry lab is how to light a Bunsen burner, a gas burner used to heat solutions of chemicals. The eminent German chemist Robert W. Bunsen invented the Bunsen burner. Howler? Yes…Robert W Bunsen did not invent it, he merely popularized its use.

3. Most plant pollen is highly inflammable. It will ignite and explode when placed on an extremely hot surface. In the early days of modern theatre, artificial lightning was produced by throwing pollen grains of the club moss onto a hot shovel. Howler? No, it’s not.

4. Human skulls have been used as drinking cups throughout history. CroMagnon (the first early modern) man scraped away muscles and flesh and hacked off and smooth the lower portion of the skull. (It is not known whether these skulls belonged to revered ancestors or hated enemies.) In the Middle Ages, the skulls of saints were used as drinking cups on ceremonial occasions. Lord Byron served wine to his visitors in Newstead Abbey in a human skull that he found in the cloisters there. A Howler or Not? Not. 01458

Mixed Abilities Sensory Walk

12th October, 10:30am - 12:30pm.

Guided 1 mile sensory walk alongside River Parrett, Langport. Open to all ages and abilities.

Wheelchair accessible trail. Waypoint activitiessound/smells/touch.

Relax, enjoy nature, have fun and meet new friends. Refreshments at The Bridge Bakery & Canteen. £2 voluntary contribution towards refreshments. Interested? Contact Helen 07852 543232 / crc@somertonrfc.co.uk www.somertonrfc.co.uk

RAFA Mid-Somerset Branch Visit to Weston-super-Mare Helicopter Museum

The Branch will visit the Westonsuper-Mare Helicopter Museum, Locking Road, Weston-superMare, BS24 8PP assembling at 10:30 am on Friday 13th October in the Museum

Cafe for tour conducted by Alan Whitfield at 11:00 am followed by an optional lunch in the Museum Cafe at 1:00 pm. The visit is open to Branch Members, Members from other Branches, Current and Ex-RAF Service Personnel and Reserves, Current and Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of the RAF Family and Members of the public that support the aims and purpose of RAFA. Contact 01458 224057.

Meet A 16th Century Kitchen Maid

Somerton History Society meets on 26th October in the Parish Rooms in Somerton at 7:30pm, with refreshments available from 7:00pm. The speaker this month is Kay Wych, a re-enactor, who will tell us about Life as a 16th Century Kitchen Maid. There is no charge for Members, but Guests are very welcome at £2 each.

Last Somerset date for top UK Blues Band!

The Producers have been headlining the British blues scene for 30+ years and retiring at the end of 2023 so book early for the last chance to see them in Somerset. From Atlanta to Auckland, the Dublin Blues Festival, Tauranga Jazz Festival, New Zealand, Colne and Burnley festivals and others they’ve toured the World. Guests joining the band

live include Martin Barre, Tony Mcphee, Bob Hall, and Ray Charles Brass section at France’s Cognac Festival. Sat 18th Nov. Charltons Community Centre, C.Adam. Tickets £10 adv from 07770 783713 or dave.saunders50@yahoo.com

Everyone Can Sing

Discover the joy of singing with others in wonderful harmony. Come and try for a week, FREE. Having started again on Sept 18th, we meet on Monday evenings at 7:00pm in The Langport Arms Ballroom (use the side entrance). Our web site is www.langportcommunitychoir.co.uk and our email address is langportcommunitychoir@ hotmail.co.uk. Our members come from across the area so you are almost certainly going to know someone from within the group. Any questions, please drop us an email. We look forward to welcoming you to sing with us. Give it a try!

Wild Roots Growing for Wellbeing Group

Mondays & Thursdays 10:00am2;30pm, Catsham, Baltonsborough. The Growing for Wellbeing Project welcomes people who want to get outdoors, learn new skills or use existing skills and be part of a supportive group. Our main emphasis is on horticulture and rural craft activities. Our Thursday sessions are particularly suited to neurodiverse participants. For more information or to arrange a visit please contact Ursula Casey at ursula@wilderwoods. org. Booking essential. Easily accessible by public transport.

Central Somerset Outdoor Learning Partnership. Registered Charity Number 1151284.

www.wilderwoods.org

Langport Weekly Market

Every Friday & most Saturdays 9am – 3pm

Cocklemoor Island (opposite the library)

All independent local sellers – No high street chains Toiletries, Jewellery, Pottery, Clothing, Furniture, Household Decorations, Cake, International Foods, Floristry, Greetings Cards, Art, Knitting & Crochet and much much more

Crossword Across

1 Dried grape (7)

5 Take place, happen (5)

8 Global, cosmopolitan (13)

9 Male relative (5)

11 Modulate, attune (7)

13 Ecstatic, joyful (6)

14 Dishevel, discompose (6)

17 Artist’s paint-mixing board (7)

18 Weary (5)

19 Hysterical with fear (5-8)

22 Beg (5)

23 Drags a riverbed (7)

Down

1 Convulsion, fit (7)

2 Object or objects for sale at an auction (3)

3 Accord, concurrence (9)

4 Peninsula between the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf (6)

5 Japanese kimono sash (3)

6 Anglo-Saxon King, Edward the _________ (9)

7 Rent out a property again (5)

10 Dispute, question (9)

Word Search

ant killer

bicycle

bucket charcoal compost

creosote

fork

hedge trimmer

hosepipe

ladder

lawnmower

mallet

oilcan

paint cans

plant pots

rake sacks spade

toolbox

trestle

twine

wood stain

12 Skin injury caused by extremely low temperature (9)

15 Conclusions, denouements (7)

16 Leased, chartered (6)

17 Appear suddenly (3,2)

20 Dastardly person (3)

21 Small barrel (3)

Mindbenders

Solutions: Turn to page 15

Local Audiologist’s plea after survey shows hearing aids reduce dementia risk by over 40%

One leading Audiologist has sent out a plea to anyone struggling with hearing loss, after a new study has found that wearing hearing aids could help reduce the risk of dementia.

Simon Swindells, Senior Audiologist and Owner of South West Hearing Care was speaking after a study, which was published The Lancet, showed that people with hearing loss who used hearing aids were 42% less likely to develop dementia than those with hearing loss who did not use hearing aids.

Simon, who is a passionate advocate for hearing health, said: “There are approximately 11 million people in the UK with hearing loss and many of these people have never sought the help of an audiologist for their hearing.

“This study, along many others before it, is showing strong evidence that untreated hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline. My plea to anyone over 50 is to ensure you have a regular hearing check every couple of years, especially if you have started to notice you are missing parts of conversations or other sounds.”

The study looked at data from 437,704 people

taking part in the UK Biobank study. The average age was 56, and the average follow-up time was 12 years.

The hypothesis, known as cognitive overload, asserts that the brains of adults with hearing loss have to work harder to understand the same information as people with average hearing, which may put such a profound strain on the brain that it cannot perform other functions as well.

Simon, who fits the latest hearing aids from his dedicated practices in Street and Westbury, continued, “Wearing hearing aids can help to reduce the risks of dementia by improving hearing and making it easier for people to communicate. It is clear to me that this study highlight’s the urgent need for the early introduction of hearing aids when someone starts to experience hearing loss.”

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

Simon Swindells - Owner and Audiologist at South West Hearing

The Best Incontinence Products of 2023

It’s that time of year when we reveal the most popular products as sold by Arelle in 2023!

Best Disposable Briefs for Moderate/Severe Incontinence:

Abena Pants are top of the charts. They are easy to fit, thin, snug, discreet, dignified and have a unique 3D DualCore® that ensures absorption precisely where it is needed. Plus the soft breathable backing covers the entire pad, not just the absorption area, making it even better.

Best Disposable Pads for Light/Moderate/ Severe Incontinence:

Our most popular product in this category is the Abena San Shaped Disposable pad which ensures maximum comfort, absorbency and protection against leakage. The materials used are fully breathable and latex-free, the super soft textile-like backsheet makes the pad noiseless and keeps your skin healthier. We’d be delighted to send you a free sample.

Best Product for Men and Women with Light/ Stress and Moderate Incontinence:

Coming out top again is the Arelle washable brief. It’s a great eco-friendly alternative if you have only light to moderate incontinence. It

features a gusset with either a highly absorbent mini or midi pad, a waterproof lining, and the men’s design differs slightly with a fly style opening. Definitely worth a try!

Best Incontinence Product for Men:

The Abena Man Shaped pad gets great feedback. Featuring leakage barriers, an airplus breathable backsheet, and a shape that has been adapted to ensure a secure fit, this T-shaped pad can absorb up to 700ml. We can even send you a free sample!

Best Incontinence Bed Pad:

Our bed pads are popular for comfort and providing night-time confidence. With polyester fabric on top, waterproof underneath and a viscose felt padding within for rapid absorption qualities – a special backing keep the pad in place on top of your sheet. If you want a costsaving and comfy alternative to a disposable bed pad, this is it.

So there you go! But if the choice of incontinence products is still overwhelming, or you can’t find what you need, don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to help. Phone 0800 389 3597 or email info@arelle.com

The Fear Fascination

The psychology behind why we enjoy (or don’t enjoy) horror movies

It’s Halloween, and horror movie suggestions are once again popping up on Netflix and Amazon. Horror movies have been captivating audiences for decades, drawing us into a world of the unknown, terror, and suspense. Why do so many of us sign up to being scared out of our wits while others avoid the horror genre at all costs. One of the reasons many individuals find pleasure in a good horror movie is linked to our innate thrill-seeking tendencies. The human brain craves novelty and excitement, and horror films provide a controlled environment for allowing us to experience fear and excitement without real danger. The rush of adrenaline and the heightened sense of awareness during suspenseful scenes can be exhilarating, triggering our “fight or flight” response even though there’s no actual real threat.

Horror movies also offer a unique form of catharsis, a release of built-up emotions and stress. By immersing ourselves in a fictional world of horror, we can experience a range of intense emotions in a safe environment. This emotional rollercoaster can be oddly satisfying, allowing us to confront our fears and anxieties vicariously through the characters on screen. Paradoxically, humans seek out fear-inducing experiences as a way to gain a sense of control over their emotions. When watching a horror movie, we have the ability to pause, fast forward, or even turn off the film if things become too intense. This sense of control over our environment reassures us that we’re not in any real danger, making the fear more manageable and enjoyable.

The human mind is also naturally curious, and horror movies tap into this by presenting mysteries, puzzles, and unexplained phenomena. For some people, watching horror movies provides an opportunity to face and conquer their fears in a controlled context. The adrenaline rush and subsequent relief of surviving the fear can create a sense of empowerment and triumph. On the flip side, there are individuals who adamantly avoid horror movies. Their psychological profile is usually very different to their horror-loving peers.

People with heightened sensitivity to stimuli might find horror movies overwhelming. Some people’s nervous systems react more strongly to fearinducing scenes, leading to discomfort or anxiety.

Individuals who have suffered past traumatic experiences might find that horror movies trigger memories or emotions that are too distressing to confront.

Horror movies are designed to elicit powerful emotional responses, and some people simply prefer to avoid negative emotions, opting for more positive or light-hearted forms of entertainment.

For others, a vivid imagination can amplify the fear experienced while watching horror movies, making the on-screen events feel all too real.

The enjoyment - or avoidance - of horror movies involves a complex interplay of human psychology. While many of us find thrills, catharsis, and a sense of control in the suspenseful and terrifying world of horror, others are better suited to forms of entertainment that align with their emotional sensitivities. Whatever our preference, there will be a Halloween-themed movie for you this October.

By Louise Addison

Puzzle Solutions

Mindbender: 1: Easy peasy 2: Two for one 3: Drive over the speed limit

Are your stairs a struggle? Enjoy independence in your home…

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

Why choose us? – Suttons Stairlifts aim to provide a reliable and prompt service to their valued customers. Thanks to personal recommendations from satisfied customers referring us to their friends and relations Suttons Stairlifts is now a well-established company committed to providing expert advice with a no-pressure selling policy, guaranteed! Our Products and Services – We offer a range of new or refurbished Handicare stairlifts for either straight or curved stairs throughout the West Country, from Bath & Bristol right down to South Devon. We also offer a rental option for straight stairlifts as well as annual services and safety checks, repairs and removals.

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

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

Call us on 01749 346 900 for more information.

Forget-Me-Not Café, Curry RivelEverybody Welcome!

The Forget-Me-Not Café is open every Tuesday between 2:30pm and 4:30pm at Curry Rivel Village Hall and everyone is welcome, especially those who may have memory challenges. Join in with activities and games such as skittles, kurling, bingo, dominoes etc. All followed by a friendly chat with tea and cake. A sing-along led by one of our volunteer musicians rounds off the afternoon.

There’s no charge although donations are welcome.

If you’re interested in coming or would like to ask about volunteering, contact Chris 01458 396123 or Adrienne 252710

myforgetmenotcafe.co.uk

New Members are wanted by Short Mat Bowls Club

Curry Rivel Short Mat Bowls Club are looking for new members to join us.

We meet in Curry Rivel Village Hall on Tuesday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:00pm and Thursday afternoons from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Tea and biscuits are provided.

Dress code is Casual but we do ask that you wear flat shoes - not trainers. We have sets of bowls for your use.

Both new and experienced bowlers are welcome. Come along and try us.

If interested please contact Marlene on 01458 251616 or Mike on 01458 251877.

Martial Art Training

Feeling stressed? Unfit? Lacking confidence? Want to be able to defend yourself? Then try Karate. Ideal for families. Children aged 5 upwards (New self defence course for females). Karate Children 7:00pm to 8:00pm. Karate Adults 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Female self defence 8:00pm to 9:00pm. Every Tuesday at Long Sutton Village Hall, Martock Road, Long Sutton (Langport).

More information phone Terry or Mark, 01458 250173 or 07749849798. Find us on Facebook

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

Four-Legged Visitor

The Somerton Memory Café enjoyed a visit from Brodie the PAT dog, (Pets as Therapy), with his owner Tess at the August Meeting. He did some tricks in return for carrot treats.

If you would like to join our group, please come along to meet us. Meetings are held in the West Street Church Hall on the first and third Thursdays of the month from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in joining us please contact Lead Coordinator Annette Sparks on 01458 258947

Are You Looking for a Local BibleBelieving Christian Church?

Sunday meetings are at 11:00am & 6:30pm.

We hope that as you leave Low Ham Chapel you will have felt welcomed, that you will have been helped by the service, and in particular by the Bible’s wonderful message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Find us on the ‘T-junction’ in the village of Low Ham, near Langport. TA10 9DT.

What3Words location: ///among.songbird.sigh

www.lowhamchapel.com

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

Roam With a Home

Is a camper van right for you?

If you’ve ever hankered after life on the open road there is lots of choice, from day campers to micro campers and motorhomes. Day campers - Camper vans or Class B motorhomes are compact vehicles for 2-4 people. They can be used for both daily commuting and weekend getaways. They feature basic amenities like sleeping space, a small kitchen, and sometimes a bathroom and are a great introduction to the world of camper vans.

Micro campers are even more compact, focusing on essential amenities while maintaining an easyto-drive profile. They are ideal for solo travellers or couples seeking cost-effective adventure. Despite their much smaller size, micro campers can still offer a comfortable sleeping area and a functional kitchenette, though you might have to stand outside to cook.

Motorhomes are larger, spacious, and wellequipped mobile homes, from Class C, with attached cabins to the luxurious Class A type which resemble buses. Motorhomes provide the most comprehensive amenities, including full kitchens, bathrooms, and even entertainment systems. They’re suitable for families or individuals looking for a more comfortable and extended traveling experience.

Motorhomes and campervans definitely offer the freedom to explore new places while having your accommodation readily available, allowing for spontaneous detours and unique experiences. In a motorhome the journey becomes an integral part of the holiday, encouraging you to take the scenic route and discover hidden gems along the way.

Enthusiasts will extol the cost-efficiency of motorhomes and campers. It’s true that they can save you money on accommodation and dining expenses. With a kitchen on board, there is the option to prepare your own meals, reducing the need to eat out, but…campervans and particularly motorhomes can be extremely expensive. New models can come in over £30000! That would pay for a fair few self-catering holidays, so if you only plan to use your motorhome once a year you might be better staying in a luxury lodge for a fortnight. You also need to consider that regardless of the size, camper vans have limited living space compared to traditional homes. This requires careful organization and packing skills, plus an

ability to get along very well with any travelling companions.

Maintaining any motorhome involves regular upkeep, storage, and servicing, and this can be more expensive than a regular vehicle.

Motorhomes can also be challenging to manoeuvre and park, especially in crowded areas, multistorey car parks or on narrow roads.

If you’re still keen, establish a budget before you start shopping. Decide which amenities are essential for your comfort and convenience. If a full bathroom or a spacious kitchen is high up on your list of priorities, accept that you are not going to get away with a micro camper.

Before committing it’s wise to rent the size and model you are considering for a few days to see whether it suits your needs. You might decide that the motorhome holiday is not for you…or you might just kickstart a whole new lifestyle.

By Greg Palmer

HIGHEST RATED ROOFER IN SOMERSET! (42

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

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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.

Anderson