LocalReach Wedmore April 2024

Mortgages for the Self Employed

Getting a mortgage as a self-employed individual can present some challenges compared to traditionally employed borrowers. However, it is still very possible to obtain a mortgage if you are self-employed. Here are some factors that can influence the ease of obtaining a mortgage:

1. Documentation and proof of income: As a self-employed person, you will need to provide documentation to prove your income. This can include SA302’s, bank statements, or potentially accountant-certified accounts. Having organised and up-to-date financial records can make the process smoother.

2. Income stability and history: Lenders typically prefer to see a consistent income stream and a track record of self-employment. Some lenders may require a minimum of two years of selfemployment history, although options may be available for those with a shorter track record.

3. Affordability assessment: Lenders will assess your ability to afford mortgage repayments based on your income and expenditure. They may evaluate your net profit or salary/dividends as the basis for affordability calculations. Demonstrating a healthy income relative to your credit commitments is crucial for any mortgage application.

4. Credit History: Your credit history plays a significant role in mortgage applications. Lenders will review your credit report to assess your repayment history, outstanding debts maintaining a good credit score is beneficial for mortgage approvals but there are lenders who will look at some credit blemishes.

5. Deposit and loan-to-value ratio: Lenders may have specific requirements for the deposit amount (loan-to-value ratio) for self-employed borrowers. Depending on factors such as credit history, income stability, and lender policies, you may be required to provide a larger deposit. While it may require a bit more effort, obtaining a mortgage as a self-employed individual is certainly feasible and something Liberty Money do day in day out. Consulting with mortgage broker who specialise in self-employed mortgages can provide valuable guidance and increase your chances of finding suitable mortgage options so let Liberty Money take the stress away and we will do the work for you and guide you through the application process, and connect you with lenders who are more familiar with self-employed borrowers. Call us now on 01275 244360 for a no obligation free chat.

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Garden View

This month – An annual pleasure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy gardening,

By Rachael Leverton

First Class Retirement Living At Sandford Station

Nestled at the foot of the Mendip Hills, Sandford Station is a rural retirement village set in twelve acres of beautiful North Somerset countryside.

With the former Sandford and Banwell railway station as its focal point, the beautifully landscaped site has a range of purpose-built one, two and three bedroom apartments.

Each self-contained apartment has been created to blend practicality with ease of living. Wide doorways open onto generous hallways to allow easy access to the light and airy interiors. Clever floorplans include design features that make the best use of space, such as the twin doors of a Jack and Jill bathroom to create en-suite facilities. Storage has not been overlooked with built-in wardrobes and closet space throughout.

Step outside your apartment and become part of a friendly and welcoming community where you’ll have the opportunity to expand your social circles and explore new interests and hobbies. Sandford Station really does offer the best of both worlds – on-site amenities and activities so you can enjoy a full and active retirement; yet peaceful enough for those days when you just want to sit back and enjoy the tranquillity of the birds singing in the nearby apple orchards.

Sandford Station is owned and operated by the St Monica Trust, a Bristol-based charity providing accommodation, care and support for older people in Bristol and the surrounding counties. Across all of the Trust’s retirement villages and care homes, our commitment to providing older people with the best experience of ageing is as important today as it was for our founders over a century ago.

To find out how you could enjoy a first class retirement at Sandford Station book your place on a guided tour now by calling 0117 919 4250. You can also visit www.stmonicatrust.org.uk for more information, to watch an aerial tour and see details of available apartments.

To learn more about village life book your place on a guided tour now by calling 0117 919 4250, or visit www.stmonicatrust.org.uk for more information and details of available properties.

Are you fully utilising fibre internet? Websites or streaming remain slow?

In many homes, the promise of super-fast fibre internet often falls short due to outdated home Wi-Fi equipment, or because of slow computers or other devices. A modern fibre connection may offer blazing speeds between 300 to 900 megabits, but poor or absent network equipment can limit the speed to perhaps a mere 30 megabits, or even less! This bottleneck is not uncommon and occurs because the network equipment in the home cannot handle the full potential of the fibre line.

For those unsure whether this issue affects them, speed tests can be performed. A reliable speed test website is speedtest. In the event of speed issues, upgrading to modern Wi-Fi solutions that support the latest standards, like Wi-Fi 6, is recommended. Perhaps the internet speeds are fast, but the internet nevertheless feels slow to navigate. This raises health concerns for the computer or other device used. Computers often become slow due to age or lack of proper maintenance.

Due to the complex nature of determining the genuine causes of internet speed issues, and in implementing the best solution, consider contacting us on 07973 536299 to arrange an appointment.

Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions Ltd.

Axbridge Royal British Legion

Axbridge Branch needs you! The next meeting will be as usual the first Tuesday of the month which will be at 11:00am on 2nd April. Meetings are held in The Lamb Inn, Axbridge. Do come along and find out more about the branch. You do not have to be a Veteran just an interest in supporting the work of the Legion. For more information contact Shirley Scane on 01934 732630 or at shirley. rosser4@yahoo.co.uk

Cheddar Valley u3a continues to grow with many new members

Cheddar Valley u3a continues to grow with many new members already joining this year. The Open Day on 1st March showcased much of what is on offer with many Special Interest Groups producing static displays and live demonstrations throughout the day, further increasing interest. This month there’s a talk by author Damian Boyd on the 4th at 2:00pm, then the regular Coffee Morning on the 18th 10:00am – 11:30am, both in the Village Hall. Day Trippers visit Sherborne on the 17th with the Rock Band’s Spring Dance on the 20th rounding off the month. Details on u3asites.org.uk/cheddar-valley

April walk programme to herald Spring

Thursday 4th April: West Mendip Walkers moderate 11m circular walk starting 9:30am from The Hunter’s Lodge Inn, Wincanton (BA9 8LD).

Thursday 11th April: West Mendip Walkers moderate 10m circular walk starting 9:30am from Horningsham (BA12 7LY).

Thursday 18th April: West Mendip Walkers moderate 12m circular walk starting 9:30am from The Crown Inn, The Batch Churchill (BS25 5PP).

Thursday 25th April: West Mendip Walkers easy 8.5m circular walk starting 9:30am from Witham Friary Village car park (BA11 5HF).

Full details of all walks can be found at www.mendipramblers.co.uk

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

RAFA-MSB next Branch Meeting is on Monday 8th April at 11:00am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. The Meeting includes a Presentation “They Bend Them, We Mend Them” covering 20 years adventures as an RAF

Engineering Officer at RAF stations; the meeting will conclude with a Pub Lunch and drinks. The Branch covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA Members, Current and Ex-RAF and Reserves, Current and ExCommonwealth Air Forces Personnel welcome. Contact Secretary e-mail rafa.midsomerset@ gmail.com or 01458 224057

“Music Matters” - Singing for Fun and Community - Axbridge

Celebrate the voice YOU have and join us for an afternoon of song. Open to those living with Dementia, Parkinson’s, other brain atrophy or those feeling isolated - come along with your partner/carer - you are ALL VERY WELCOME. Enjoy a drink, a biscuit and chat with others before singing starts. Facilitated by Maureen Campbell a trained Singing-for-the-Brain facilitator and Movement Psychotherapist. Tel. 01934 852869 Meet alternate Tuesdays, Axbridge Town Hall. Times 2:15pm - 3:45pm. £2 donation welcomed. Next sessions: April 9th & 23rd; May 7th & 21st.

The Pop up Shop is Back!

We’re holding a pop up shop at Greenways Farm, 2 Ebdon Road, Worle BS22 9NX, on Wednesday 10th April when Mark Pickles will be bringing lots of cotton quilting fabrics, wadding and haberdashery. He’ll be servicing sewing machines - please phone him on 01225 482413 to book a slot - and we’ll be running our coffee shop with coffee, home made cakes and light lunches. For further information contact Heather on 07967527455 or thethursdaygirls@gmail. com

Cheddar Spring Fair Saturday 13th

April 10:00am - 1:00pm

At the Catholic Hall, Cheddar, BS27 3HU. Please pop along and support lots of fantastic small businesses. For more info on stalls please follow our facebook event. Hope to see you there.

Polaris Submarine - life in a nuclear deterrent

Winscombe District U3A. Talk by Mike Bravery about life in a Polaris Submarine. Monday 15th April at Winscombe Community Centre at 2:00pm for 2:30pm. £2.50 with refreshments. Visitors very welcome. Contact 01934 249018

Shower, walk-in bath, or wet room? We can help you decide

Choosing a new bathroom involves understanding your bathing needs. There are a variety of options to consider when deciding. One option is to replace your bath with a low-level shower, this is suited to those with limited mobility. Slip-resistant shower trays are available in various sizes, and accessories like shower seats.

Some people still prefer having a bath to a shower so this is when we would recommend a walk-in bath. These are available in various sizes and come with moulded seats and quick fill.

The third option is a wet room which eliminates obstacles with slip-resistant flooring and a central drain, making them ideal for wheelchair users and caregivers.

It can be overwhelming knowing which solution to choose but at AHM Installations, we have a friendly team of home surveyors who will visit you at home to discuss your bathing needs. We provide FREE quotations and visuals of how your new bathroom could look. To find out more call 01934 805862.

Whatever your requirement, AbbeyCare are here for you.

Excellent care in a Christian environment

Our homes provide a comfortable and calm environment and maintain an atmosphere of respect, dignity and privacy whilst ensuring physical, spiritual, medical and psychological needs are met.

All residents’ rooms are kept in good decorative order and most have ensuite facilities or wet rooms. Baths with hoists are also available for ease of use. We encourage our residents to personalise their private rooms so that they feel very much at home. We take great pride in offering the highest standards of accommodation and facilities; the level of care we give to every one of our residents is exactly what we would want our own loved ones to receive, so you will find that our homes are run very much along the lines of a comfortable caring family home, where each resident is a valued member of our small community.

We have a varied programme of social activities including trips out in our wheelchair accessible mini bus, singa-longs, musical movement, talks and demonstrations and various in house activities. Families and friends are welcome to join us.

Whether you are looking for a little time to relax and recuperate, a friendly day-time gathering or somewhere to call a home then please let us show you around! We have three beautiful homes in Weston-super-Mare.

Abbey Gate

This was AbbeyCare’s first care home and the largest, opened in 1961.

T: 01934 621166

Gough House

This home overlooks Ellenborough Park in Westonsuper-Mare, it provides a day care centre and a holiday respite short-stay service.

T: 01934 622019

Let our family take care of yours...

The Links

The smallest of our homes, accommodating 11 people of 65 and over.

T: 01934 625869

Next meeting Macular Society local group is 17th April

Weston-super-Mare

Macular Society local group serves those living in Weston super Mare, Winscombe, Clevedon and surrounds who have Macular Degeneration or central vision loss. The meetings are held at St Peter’s Church Hall Baytree Road Weston-super-Mare BS22 8HG 10:30am to 12:30pm.

There are talks by professionals offering advice on appliances or safety in the home.

In April a doctor from Weston Eye Clinic is kindly giving a talk. Come along and share experiences and tips. Family and carers are most welcome. Cost £2 including refreshments.

Draycott Community Cinema

We have recently had a fabulous new screen installed and are delighted to bring you our April screenings. The community choice of Hot Fuzz on Friday 19th April. Doors open 7:30pm for an 8:00pm start.

Children’s film Wonka on Saturday 20th April. Doors open 2:00pm for a 2:30pm start.

You will find further information on our forthcoming screenings up until July on our website. draycottcinema.square.site/

Isle of Wedmore Society

Our April meeting will take place on Thursday 25th April at 7:30pm in the Wedmore Masonic Hall, when Sally Heslop will give a talk ‘A Newcomer’s perspective of Wedmore.’ What living in a Somerset village is like for a newcomer. Members free, visitors £5 with free tea/coffee afterwards.

Contact Ian Tomes on 01934 710390

Draycott Memorial Hall Bingo

Bingo held monthly at Draycott Memorial Hall. Next one Friday 26th April. Doors open 6:45pm, eyes down 7:30pm. Refreshments during the interval. Cash flyer, prize flyer, raffle and children welcome.

For more information check out our website www.draycottmemorialhall.org.uk/ or Facebook www.facebook.com/draycottmemorialhall/

Kukkina Boutique

Kimberley Brooks, the owner and creator for Kukkina Boutique has created a shopping experience like no other, with something for everyone and every occasion! The Ultimate Shopping Experience where everyone is welcome.

Step inside the Women’s Clothing Boutique of Dreams… be wowed by what we have for you!

• Woman’s Clothing and Accessories.

• Hand Picked Garments.

• Hand Made Jewellery.

• Fizz on tap.

• Stress Free Parking.

• Tanning / Sunbed Available.

• Personal Styling available upon request.

We also welcome private shopping groups, parties and Hen do’s. Please call Kimberley to enquire –07867 315536

As well as all the above listed – Kukkina Boutique has an added Health & Beauty Wellbeing Hub within its premises, this includes the following…

Salu Aesthetics, By Sally Thorpe.

Tel: 07593 205200

Limitless Lengths, By Kirsty Gilborson.

Tel: 07305 582583

Beauty By Emma, By Emma Rogers.

Tel: 07889 465689

Massage By Charlotte, By Charlotte Cossins-Price.

Tel: 07594 922666

Mendip Inner Wheel Concert of Popular Music for RNLI BIcentennial

Mendip Inner Wheel are presenting a Concert of Popular Music by the Cameo Orchestra Bristol at 7:30pm (Doors open 7:00pm) on Saturday 27th April in St Andrew’s Church, Cheddar, BS27 3RE, in aid of the National RNLI 200 Bicentennial Celebration. The concert will include local soloists Jenny Jefferies Soprano, Alan Philps Bass & Hannah Biddlecombe Soprano and tickets priced £10 may be obtained from Margaret Gelder Tel: 01934 710573 or paid on the door. The concert will be supported by members of the RNLI Winscombe & District Branch.

Choral Spring Concert

The Burnham & Highbridge choral society’s Spring concert is on Saturday 4th May at 7:30pm in the OLEM Catholic church. Tickets cost £10 & £5 for children. Available from www. burnhamandhighbridgechoral.org.uk, members and local businesses. All info available on website. They will perform Brahms Requiem & Schubert’s Mass in G. Joining them will be professional Soloists & two pianists. We look forward to entertaining you..... & MAY the 4TH be with you!

Rock and Roll Concert to celebrate the RNLI’s 200th anniversary

Winscombe RNLI is holding a Rock and Roll Concert / Dance at Winscombe Church Centre, 52 Woodborough Road on Saturday 18th May. The music will be by Cheddar U3a’s “Vintage Cheddar” Rock Band supported by special material performed by members of Winscombe Folk Club. Tickets cost £8 + 35p fee from universe. com/winscombe. Doors open at 7:30pm for an 8:00pm start and the RNLI’s pop-up bar will be there as always. Further details from winscombefolkclub@gmail.com or text to 07551 197 685

Golf Day 14th June: Enter Now! Proceeds to Prostrate Cancer UK

Mendip Rotary Club Golf Day will be held on Friday 14th June at Wedmore Golf Club, from 09:00 to 14:00 including lunch. Enter now!! Proceeds will go to Prostate Cancer UK. Entry fee is £50 per head/ £200 per team of 4, to include lunch. Event and hole sponsorship will be very welcome for this excellent cause. Please contact: Bob Acland - Email: Bobacland@hotmail.co.uk

Browns Top Tips for spring cleaning your appliances

Spring has sprung and the days are getting longer and flooding us with much more light and Vitamin D! And as this happens energy may well start to return, and we suddenly notice things we have neglected in the dull winter months.

Spring cleaning commences! Don’t forget your domestic appliances, they too benefit from a good clean. Here’s some of our top tips:

Washing machines – wipe door seal, remove and clean soap drawer, check filter if you have one, put machine through a service wash on the hottest programme with a handful of washing soda crystals in the drum. Some machines now have a drum cleaning programme which can be run instead.

Dishwashers – Check filter and spray arms for debris and clean, top up salt and rinse aid, use a good brand of dishwasher cleaner and run through as directed.

Tumble Dryers – Do a fluff check! Clean all the filters and clean as much fluff as possible that is reachable in the cabinet, (don’t take it apart!) – Condenser dryers – remove and rinse condenser unit (check your manual.) Heat Pump dryers – clean filters as directed by manufacturer.

Ovens and Cookers – The worst job! Depending on the type of oven, follow the manufacturers instructions to give your oven a lovely deep clean. Once clean why not consider using oven liners on the base to prevent burnt on debris on base. Another tip is to give your oven a quick wipe out after every use. This helps prevent build up that can burn on and be difficult to shift.

Microwaves - Wipe the interior over with a damp cloth making sure to remove any burnt-on food with a little washing up liquid and elbow grease!

Hobs – Use a good hob cleaner to give your hob a spring sparkle. For gas hobs give the furniture a good wash with warm soapy water.

Fridges – Wipe the shelves, drawers and sides. Pay attention to the drain hole, checking that it is clear.

Freezers – Defrost static freezers. Even frost-free freezers can benefit from an annual defrost, although this is not a must.

Amazing fracture healing for young motorcycle racing star “Declared fit for the next race after three breaks to the pelvis”

Casey O’Gorman is a brilliantly rising star in the world of motorcycle racing. Pundits say he’s a ‘raw natural talent’. He says he just loves bikes and wants to win everything. Already he’s picked up The British Talent Cup championship and the Irish Young Rider of the Year, has achieved many podium positions and now gained major sponsorship for the future.

But this can be a risky sport and Casey’s been an occasional visitor to the Somerset Health Practice, staying in the self-contained guest apartment with its views over the Somerset Levels and undergoing intensive treatment for injuries and fractures to avoid missing a race –crucial in his career.

“Casey came to us last year with three pelvic fractures and the request to make him fit enough to ride his next race of the season” explains Matthew Jackson. “He hobbled in on crutches for three days of intensive treatment.

“After sessions in the hyperbaric oxygen chamber, laser therapy and the PEMF machine (pulsed electro-magnetic therapy) plus a dose of traditional Chinese herbs, Casey made fast progress. On day two, he was walking better and on the third day he was in the garden playing basketball!”

Matthew also hired out laser and PEMF equipment to use at home and by the next

race, Casey was declared fit by the official event doctors – and he went on to achieve a podium position.

“Casey would never have been able to achieve all the great results and podium success without treatment and support from Matthew and Becky at the clinic. They’re really good people” says his dad John. “The accommodation makes it accessible for people from all over the country, who can stay as part of a treatment package – and the hospitality is super.”

Exclusive offer

Somerset Health Practice is making a special, exclusive offer to LocalReach readers

– A free Ultrasound scan, worth £130.

*Offer open to the first 5 readers to book shockwave sessions, quoting the offer code ‘ACTIVE APRIL!’

Call 01458 860392 before 30th April.

About Matthew Jackson…

Matthew Jackson of the Somerset Health Practice is well known locally as a trusted osteopath and acupuncturist who is truly dedicated to helping and healing people through modern natural medicine. He is also an expert herbalist and registered practitioner, having trained in London and China with world class professionals. Matthew is always studying new ways and gaining new qualifications to help his clients, taking a holistic approach. These include Shockwave and Laser therapy for pain, injury and wounds alongside hyperbaric oxygen therapy for longevity, chronic disease healing and enhanced performance. Look online for Somerset Shockwave and Origin Oxygen and read informative e-books.

For more information and claim your free assessment * call 01458 860392 Treatments are private and easy payment plans can be arranged to suit your budget Follow us ‘Somerset Health Practice’ on Facebook and Instagram, or ‘@glastoosteo’ on Twitter

Matthew Jackson - BSc (Hons) Ost, Dip Ac/CHM (China), Pg Dip CHM (OB/GYN), Pg Cert US (MSK) MRCHM, BMUS

The Fascinating Story of Frankie Howerd and Dennis Heymer

The Trustees are delighted to announce that Mark Farrelly will perform his short play “HOWERD’S END” in aid of The Frankie Howerd OBE Trust in CROSS MEMORIAL HALL on Saturday 6th July. It’s about the life of Frankie Howerd and Dennis Heymer who lived in Cross and has received terrific reviews. Mark has performed it all over the country and he will do the 100th performance in Cross, but limited to just 50 tickets at £10 each which can be pre-ordered now by emailing info@ frankiehowerdobetrust.org. Please visit Mark’s website: markfarrelly.co.uk/howerds-end

Interested in quilting? Come along and find out more

We are Weston Quilters a lively group of people of all abilities who enjoy patchwork and quilting. We usually meet on the first Monday of each month at the Hundred Academy, Beaufighter Road, Weston super Mare BS24 8EE. Doors open at 7:00pm for a 7:30pm start. There are guest speakers during the year and the opportunity to buy from our invited traders. Guest entrance £5. Please go to our Facebook for more information.

The Warm Spot

‘The Warm Spot’ every Monday from 10:30am to 2:00pm in the Church Rooms, Axbridge.

Come along for coffee, cake and companysoup lunches too. If you would like to know more contact Yvonne Brown, tel no 01934 249 538.

Singing? Who, what, when, where, why?

Who? Joyful Voices and Cheddar Valley Singers.

What? Both groups sing a wider range of repertoire to inspire and enjoy.

When? Monday evenings (CVS), Tuesday Afternoons (JV)

Where? Cheddar Catholic Community Hall

Why? Because singing together boosts both our physical and mental health.

Contact Kate at either joyfulvoicesafternoon@gmail.com OR cheddarvalleysingers@gmail.com

Weston Super Mare Philatelic Society, The Conservative Club, Alexandra Parade

Here we are again! How the months fly by, more interesting displays and debates, we have had part two of India overprints and railway posts, Malta. In early March we had an informal talk on stamp collecting and displaying. The meetings are held at the Conservative Club, 24-26 Alexandra Parade, W-S-M BS23 1QX, on the second Tuesday at 2:00pm and the forth Tuesday at 7:00pm. All are welcome. Your interests are our interests.

For further information contact Darrell Kellett on darrell.kellett@outlook.com

Axbridge District Trefoil Guild

This month’s meeting is, as usual, on the second Tuesday of the month at 2:00pm. However, this month, they are meeting at Avalon Marshes Centre at 2:00pm for a Guided Tour of Avalon Archaeology.

For more information and to ensure a place in the tour contact Sue Wild on Sue at swild34@ hotmail.com or 01749 870239 or Secretary Jane at jane@crooklands.net

National Unicorn Day - 9th April

National Unicorn Day, inaugurated in 2015, is celebrated every April 9th to honour the enchanting unicorn. Surprisingly, the unicorn is Scotland’s official national animal, a fact that might astonish those unfamiliar with Scottish heraldry (I had to triple check that fact!)

This mythological creature, symbolizing purity, innocence, and power, has been revered across various cultures since the classical age, including by the ancient Babylonians and the Indus civilization. According to Celtic mythology, the unicorn’s horn possesses the miraculous ability to purify poisoned water, highlighting its healing prowess.

The unicorn’s portrayal as a proud, indomitable force resonates deeply with Scottish history and identity. Scotland’s association with the unicorn traces back to the mid-1500s, where it prominently featured in the royal coat of arms. This emblematic use persisted until

Get Moving with Age UK Somerset

Keeping active is vital for our health. Age UK Somerset delivers a fun and lively exercise session called Movement to Music in Cheddar. This dynamic, choreographed class is designed for people over 55. Held at Cheddar Village Hall, Church Street, BS27 3RL, Tuesdays at 2:00pm, £5.

This class is a great way to improve your general fitness, have fun, and meet new people, why not come along and try it? For more information or to sign up, contact the Ageing Well service on: 01823 345624, ageingwell@ageuksomerset.org.uk

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

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

the Union of the Crowns in 1603, when King James VI of Scotland, becoming James I of England, introduced the English lion alongside the unicorn to symbolize the countries’ unity. The lore often depicts unicorns and lions as adversaries, competing for the title of the ‘king of beasts.’

In Scottish heraldry, unicorns are depicted with gold chains, a detail thought to represent the Scottish monarchs’ power to ‘tame’ such a formidable creature. This emblematic imagery underscores the unicorn’s significance in Scottish culture, embodying the strength and independence that Scotland prides itself on.

I asked my 13-year-old daughter Casey whether she knew about National Unicorn Day, “There’s a Unicorn Day?” she asked incredulously, her eyes lighting up. “That’s awesome…they are so cute. Can we have unicorn cupcakes?”

Ignore the majesty of the unicorn and its association with Scottish kings and go straight for cuteness and cake…that’s my girl. But unicorn cupcakes does sound like a plan!

By Gemma Peters

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

We meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month: 7:30pm start. Free. Contact details please: mark.trenchard53@ gmail.com or phone / text 07815681580

Badminton in Winscombe

Established since the 1970’s we are the original Winscombe Mixed Badminton Club. Based at The Church Centre (aka St James Hall), Woodborough Road, BS25 1BA. We meet on Wednesdays at 8:00pm to play non-league matches, with emphasis upon regular social exercise and fun. New members of all ages and abilities always welcome. Spare racquets available, first attendance free. Interested? Please ring Mike on 01934 842465 or 07779 377046, or Paul on 01934 843729. If preferred, simply turn up.

Bingo at Winscombe Community Centre

Every Thursday night (in the annex) come along and have a fun evening with friendly people. Start

time 7:30pm. £100 jackpot prize plus 23 other games. All money prizes, must be over 18 years old. All welcome. Any enquiries to 07866831993.

A Warm Welcome at Lenny’s Cafe in Shipham

Why not drop in at Lenny’s friendly Community Cafe in Shipham Village Hall on alternate Fridays, 11:00am - 3:00pm? Serving coffee, tea, homemade cakes, and light lunches. Come and make new friends. All profits to charity.

Come And Play Premier Division Lawn Bowls In Winscombe

Winscombe Bowling Club is now playing in the Somerset Premier Division. If your game has plateaued and you relish the opportunity to play against the county’s top bowlers, come along to Winscombe and give yourself the chance.

Our friendly, community club, also has teams in the North Somerset divisions and there are two over 55s sides. If you are new to the game, we have qualified coaches able to set you on the right path. Contact Chris Bryant: 01934 260400 or chrisbryantwinterwood@gmail.com

Lottery grant for Loxton Village Hall

The committee of Loxton Village Hall are thrilled to have been awarded a £20,000 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund, which will be used to upgrade and refit the kitchen area. We hope this will improve existing events and allow us to add new events to our itinerary. For more information on the hall and our programme, or to submit ideas for future events, please contact: secretaryloxtonvh@gmail.com

Join a free and friendly Health Walk!

30 to 60 minute Health Walks are available in Clevedon, Flax Bourton, Long Ashton, Nailsea, Portishead, Weston-super-Mare, Winscombe and Yatton. No need to book, just come along!

Please see our website for the dates, times and meeting places: www.betterhealthns.co.uk/getactive/walking/

Or contact us at: getactive@n-somerset.gov.uk / 01275 882 730

Mendip Community Transport Needs Volunteer Car Drivers For Hospital Appointments

We are in desperate need of additional Volunteer Community Car Drivers. Our drivers take people to attend medical appointments out of their local area when they don’t have any other form of transport.

We are looking for people with a full driving license and spare time on their hands to join our friendly team and make a difference to their local community.

We would be happy to chat with anyone interested and answer any questions. Please call Mendip Community Transport on 01749 880613.

Somerset Family Counselling Trust needs your help!

FCT raises funds to recruit qualified and experienced therapists to provide early intervention, shortterm counselling to children and young people from mainly low-income families. Somerset FCT has a committee of dedicated volunteers supporting the work of our Family Liaison Officer who is the contact for all referrals. Can you help this worthwhile local charity? We are looking for someone to chair Somerset FCT. Mental health services for the young are increasing while resources are stretched so if you are interested and enthusiastic please contact:

Susannah Walker chair-somerset@ familycounsellingtrust.org, 07790008448.

Fresh Prints of Cheddar - calling all young folk!

Print Folk Jams invite you to come and print your own T-shirt at Cheddar’s first Mobile Print Studio. InkJam will be offering free T-shirt printing at

FF

Folly Framing

outdoor locations in April and May for the youth of the Cheddar Valley. We have a whole rail of clothing waiting for you to customise. We will follow this with free linocut skills workshops. Everyone aged around 13-21 years is invited! Details on Instagram @inkjam20. Facebook InkJam20.

Commissioned by Seed Sedgemoor and sponsored by Artichoke, Petruth Paddocks and Cheddar Boot Sale and Market.

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

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

Cat Lady

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