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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 2025.
DO YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF LOCALREACH EACH MONTH?
LocalReach is delivered each month by ROYAL MAIL to ALL of the Wedmore, Cheddar, Axbridge, Winscombe/BS28, BS27, BS26, BS25 postcode areas, including all towns and villages within the postcode areas, to every resident and business, totalling 11,452 copies 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.
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.
“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: January 28th; February 11th & 25th; March 11th & 25th; April 8th & 22nd.
‘A good old-fashioned Jumble Sale’
Saturday 1st February in aid of Winscombe Community Centre New Building.
Our next very popular Jumble Sale will be held at Winscombe Community Centre, Sandford Road on Saturday 1st February.
We’d love to see you. There will be great bargains,
refreshments and a raffle too. The Jumble Sale starts at 2:00pm but if would like to donate jumble please bring it along on the morning of 1st February from 9:30am. Profits will go towards our NEW Community Centre.
For more information on Jumble Sale please call 07811 292909. Registered Charity no. 1186290.
Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch Meeting, Monday 3rd February
RAFA-MSB will meet on Monday February at 11:00am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS for a presentation by Roger Cowie entitled “From Russia with Love” and Branch Meeting preparing for the March AGM plus optional Lunch & Drinks from the Club Menu & Bar.
RAFA-MSB covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA Members, Current & Ex-RAF Personnel & Reserves, Current & Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of the RAF Family & Members of the public that support RAFA aims & purpose welcome.
no-obligation site visit, please call Jordan or Courtney
Contact Secretary raf.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01456 224057.
Cheddar Valley u3a Members are beating the February Blues
In addition to the full programme of group activities, they are meeting and enjoying social events. Day Trippers start the ball rolling with an afternoon tea at Wedmore Golf Club on the 5th, hotly followed by the first of the new speaker meetings on the 6th February. The lunch club will be dining at The Bath Arms on the 19th and the increasingly popular coffee morning is on the 20th February. That pretty much takes care of the shortest month!
All the information you need is on the website; cheddar-valley.u3asite.uk
ALL WELCOME to Save the Children lunches, Shipham Village Hall
Save the Children lunches will be served in Shipham Village Hall on Friday 7th & 21st February at 12:30pm. ALL WELCOME to come and join us for soup, bread and cheese, pickle, homemade biscuits, tea or coffee for £5.50.Pay at the door. Plenty of free parking! All profits go to help Save the Children in their work of caring for children.
Banwell Methodist Church - Breaking News
admire green fingers and craft skills, and wish it to continue.
Email: cheddar.flowershow@yahoo.com
Drumming for Joy with Axbridge Trefoil Guild on 11th February
Our meeting on 11th February in the Catholic Church rooms in Cheddar will be our AGM , but we will also have a visit from “Drumming for Joy”. All newcomers and members welcome. Phone 01749 870239 or email swild34@hotmail.com
A big pop up fabric sale!
On Wednesday February 12th Mark Pickles is bringing lots of cotton craft fabrics to Greenways Farm, Lyefield Road Worle BS22 9NX on Wednesday - all at just £5.00 a metre! Sewing machine servicing available - please book beforehand - and The Thursday Girls will be running our coffee shop, with homemade cakes and light lunches. And a charity tombola. Join us from 10:00am - 3:00pm to find out about new craft activities planned for 2025 at Greenways. Contact thethursdaygirls@gmail.com or Heather on 07967527455
All the items you wanted or didn’t receive for Christmas are still available. Come to the Youth & Community Centre on Saturday 8th February, 10:00am – 12 noon and join us for coffee/tea and home-made cakes and find that bargain you have been looking for. All items priced to suit everyone’s pocket.
There’s No Business Like (Flower) Show Business...
So come to Cheddar Flower Show AGM on Monday 10th February, 7:15pm at The White Hart in The Bays, Cheddar. Take an active part in 2025 and future Shows, so that it continues to flourish. After the 40th Anniversary Show in August some Committee members are retiring, so new members are needed. Please come to the AGM if you enjoy entering exhibits in the Flower Show or attending it to
wedmoredental.co.uk 713013
Jennifer Morecroft Practice Principal, BDS MCGDent
01934 713013 appointments@wedmoredental.co.uk Coronation House, The Borough, Wedmore, BS28 4EG
Practice Principal, BDS Associate, BDS MFDS PGCert (Endo) Associate,
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Wedmore Antiques, Collectables, & Interiors 2025
Somerset’s smallest Antiques and Collectables Fair opens at 9:00am when the stalls are set up. Admission to the fair is free. The success of the fair is due to the fact that all the dealers are invited to take part due to the quality of items that they have for sale. Why not drop in and see if you can find a wonderful surprise treasure? This month’s fair is on Saturday 15th February. Held in Wedmore Village Hall. There is a large free carpark near by.
Has someone you love died? Are you feeling alone?
Sometimes it can be helpful just to talk to someone who understands!
The Grieve Well Café at Christchurch is for anyone who has lost someone close, whether that’s recently or a while ago. Please come and join us for a coffee or tea, for a chance to share experiences of loss or just to enjoy the company of people who have similar life
stories. The cafe is open from 10:00am to noon. Next dates: 19th February, 19th March and every third Wednesday of the month, at Christchurch Clevedon.
February 19th Meeting Macular Society Local Group
The Weston-super-Mare local Macular Society group covering Weston, Clevedon, Winscombe, Burnham and surrounding areas meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month 10:30am to 12:30pm at St Peter’s Church Hall, Baytree Road, Westonsuper-Mare BS22 8HG.
The group is for anyone affected by central vision loss AMD wet or dry. New programme of talks from helpful organisations and local interest such as RNIB and Birnbeck pier. Cost £3 including refreshments. Friends and carers most welcome. For more information contact Jo 07947 373 244
Isle of Wedmore Society
The February meeting will take place on Thursday 27th February at 7:30pm in the Wedmore Masonic Hall. Our speaker will be LouiseTreneman. She is the Senior Officer for Peat Restoration/Avon Senior Reserve Manager and her talk will be entitled ‘Peat Restoration on the Levels.’ Society members free, visitors £5 with free tea or coffee afterwards. Contact new Secretary Jean Gregory on 01934 900051
Secure Your Legacy with Your Will & Support Local Hospice Care!
Make Your Will Week 2025 takes place 3rd7th March. Local solicitors generously give their services and time for free
• Heating Oils
• Lubricants
• Boiler Servicing
• Fuel Cards
• Automatic Top-Ups
• Tank Replacements Western Fuel are suppliers of Home Heating Oil and as your local Somerset, family run supplier, can offer you a fast and reliable service at competitive prices.
to help you create your will in exchange for a donation to our hospice: Weston Hospicecare. Have you thought about leaving a gift in your will to Weston Hospicecare? One in five patients are cared for because someone like you decided to leave a gift in their will to ensure care for future patients in our community. Spaces are limited so please call solicitors directly to book your appointment. To contact a participating solicitor and book your appointment, or for more information, please visit: www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/ event/makeyourwillweek/
Beginners Beekeepers Course ready for spring of 2025
Are you interested in keeping bees or just learning more about the art of beekeeping?
If yes, join Wedmore & Cheddar Beekeepers on our immersive 5 week beginner’s Beekeeping Course at Cross Memorial Hall commencing Tuesday 4th March 2025. The course, at a cost of £50, will be led by a Master Beekeeper. Upon completion of the five theory sessions there will be an opportunity to join a practical session (included in the cost) in Mid April, bee suits will be made available.
The sessions will be run Tuesday evenings, 4th March to 1st April inclusive commencing 7:00pm at Cross Memorial Hall, Webbington Road, Cross, Axbridge. BS26 2EL.
For more information please make enquires to Terry Edser at terryedser@outlook.com
Calling All ABBA Fans
The amazing ABBA TRIBUTE BAND - SENSATION will be at Mark Village Hall, Saturday 29th March. Doors open 19:00, Close 23:30 hours. Just £18 per person. Bar available. Get your dancing shoes on. Fancy dress optional. Prize for best outfit. Book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/mark-villagehall or email Chairman@MarkvillageHall.co.uk
Whist Drive
Whist Drive, every Monday Night at Draycott Memorial Hall, 7:30pm start. For further details call Lance 01934 782711
Dancing is good exercise for mind and body
Come along to St James’s Church Centre, Winscombe, BS25 1BA and learn some different styles of English Country Dancing with the Mendip Folk Dance Club. We meet on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Monday each month (except August and Bank Holidays) from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. You will be made very welcome, and you do not need to bring a partner. Your first evening is free, thereafter it’s £3 per evening, including tea/coffee. To find out more, please ring Pat on 01934 742853. We look forward to meeting you.
Stop Your Bills Going Through the Roof
According to the Energy Saving Trust, as much as 25% of the heat in your home is lost through your loft or roof space. Not only does that mean you’re getting bigger bills than you should be, you’re also contributing much more than you need to towards greenhouse gases and your carbon footprint. While Access4Lofts specialises in supplying and installing loft ladders, hatches and boarding, we also offer loft insulation that could reduce this heat loss by as much as 20%. That’s going to mean, not just a significant saving on your energy bills, but also a big step in the right direction when it comes to your household’s impact on climate change.
Access4Lofts is fully committed to providing you with loft insulation that is not only practical and affordable, but also meets the very highest environmental standards. All insulation installs comply with the National Insulation Association (NIA) recommended standard depths of insulation. Call Anthony now to book a free survey and quotation on 01275 293 128, or visit www.Access4Lofts.co.uk/BristolSouth.
You can also find them on Facebook as Access4Lofts Bristol South
Good service never goes out of fashion
Last month we told you that we are celebrating 40 years in business in 2025. Its an exciting time for us as well as an opportunity to look back over the ups and downs of business and how life has changed in those 40 years. As everyone’s experience, life has been up and down, and the business has seen many transformations over the years.
When we first opened the shop, we were the only Hotpoint centre and Miele Centre in the area. Other manufacturers soon came on board including Electrolux, Zanussi and Siemens. Those were the days when Reps would come round looking for new outlets for their goods. Remembering John Berry of Hotpoint, Stuart Garmston of Siemens, Roy Marriot of Miele and many others who helped us become who we are today. There were very many happy times, we had engineers on the road and sales staff in the shop. We had tough times too when the recessions hit, we had no idea how we were going to survive.
We have very many loyal customers, and some have become more like old friends. Even second and third generations are calling us now. Only this last week one of our original customers called us for a new appliance.
Life has certainly changed. Machines are super clever, even with the ability to connect to the internet, so you can turn your oven on as you leave work to come home. Or even check what’s in your fridge! Whoever would have thought a fridge compressor would run a tumble dryer! And yet the call for simple machines has never been greater! Maybe a manufacturer might listen soon!
Times are changing rapidly for us all, but good service never goes out of fashion. We aim to provide this to every customer. So if it’s a repair or a new machine you need we are still here to help.
Browns Domestic Appliances
We repair: Washing machines, washer dryers, tumble dryers, dishwashers, ovens and hobs, cookers and integrated appliances.
We sell: Washing machines, washer dryers, tumble dryers, dishwashers, ovens and hobs, cookers, fridges and freezers and integrated appliances.
No hidden extras. We keep things simple!
Why Consider a Secured Loan? – A Broker’s Perspective
As mortgage advisors, we understand managing finances can sometimes feel like juggling too many balls at once. Whether it’s unexpected expenses, debt consolidation, or home improvements, a secured loan could be the solution to achieving your financial goals while keeping your mortgage terms intact.
What is a Secured Loan?
A secured loan, or second charge mortgage, uses the equity in your property as security. Unlike remortgaging, which replaces your current mortgage, a secured loan allows you to borrow additional funds without altering your existing mortgage. This can be especially beneficial if you’re on a competitive fixed rate or face early repayment charges.
Key Benefits of Secured Loans
1. Maintain Mortgage Terms: A secured loan lets you borrow without affecting your existing mortgage.
2. Access Larger Sums: Secured loans often allow borrowing higher amounts compared to unsecured loans.
3. Competitive Rates: Using your property as
security often results in more favourable rates than unsecured borrowing.
4. Tailored Options: As a broker, we can access a variety of lenders to find a product that suits your circumstances.
When is a Secured Loan Right for You?
Secured loans are ideal for homeowners with equity who need substantial funding, want to consolidate debt, or avoid disrupting your current mortgage deal. However, as the loan is secured against your home, repayment is critical to avoid risking your property.
Why Work with a Broker?
Secured loans can be complex. Our role as a broker is to guide you, provide advice, and compare products to ensure the best outcome for you.
Get in Touch
If you’re considering a secured loan, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a no-obligation chat and explore how a secured loan could support your financial goals. Call us on 01275 244360 so that we can arrange a no obligation discussion with one of our advisors.
Cheddar Country Market Warm Welcome
It may be cold and wintry but you are guaranteed a warm welcome at Cheddar Country Market. We are open every Tuesday from 10:00am11:30am at Cheddar Village Hall, Cheddar. Homemade meals, cakes, savouries and preserves at reasonable prices. Cash or card accepted. We will have been open since 14th January after our Christmas break.
Glastonbury Armed Forces And Veterans Breakfast Club
We are a group of Veterans & Serving Members of His Majesties Armed Forces whose ethos, like other Veterans Breakfast Clubs around the UK & the World, is mutual support.
It works because we have a similar humour & outlook on on life. There is no formal Membership and no Fees.
We meet every Wednesday at 08:30 for Breakfast at 09:00.For details of where we meet e-mail GlastonburyAFVBC@gmail.com or phone 07929 087260
Lenny’s Community Cafe
If you’ve never visited us, the cafe is open on alternate Fridays in Shipham Village Hall, serving light lunches and delicious home-made cakes from 11:00am to 2:00pm. It’s a warm, friendly place where you can come in from the cold to meet and make new friends. Donations are made to different charities every month. Everyone welcome!
Weston Hospicecare’s Men’s March: Tackle the 10, get the Gold
This February, Weston Hospicecare’s Men’s March will see hundreds of supporters embark on the scenic 10-mile charity walk for Weston Hospicecare.
Starting at the Grand Pier, you’ll follow the stunning coastline taking you past Birnbeck Pier, through Weston Woods and on to Sand Point before reversing the route back to the Grand Pier for a pint and a pasty whilst enjoying the Six-Nations
on the big screen with your fellows walkers. So prepare those walking boots, round up your mates and step up for Weston Hospicecare. Visit www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/mensmarch to register.
Cheddar Gorge Visitor Information Centre Re-opening
The VIC, as it is known, is reopening in Cheddar Gorge for February half term, 10:30am3:30pm every day during that week, then weekends only until Easter, after which every day until October. Formerly the National Trust shop, the VIC stocks maps, guides and other useful information plus a selection of souvenirs and gifts and is run entirely by volunteers.
People who enjoy meeting visitors from all over the world and have reasonable local knowledge are invited to join the friendly team. Flexible hours, full training and support provided. Email cheddargorgevic@gmail.com
Join a free and friendly Health Walk!
30 to 60 minute Health Walks are available in Churchill and Cheddar, Clevedon, Congresbury, 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
SPA Singles Social Group – South West, Est. 1979
We are a member led group, aiming to help you make new friends and improve your social life. Welcoming active, 40+ singles throughout the South West. Your local branch is Wells & Mendip. Events include meals, walks, music, holidays, day trips, social evenings, theatre, etc. and whatever members wish to organize. Find us on the meetup website at www.meetup.com/spa-social-group or use the meetup app and search for “SPA singles group south west”.
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 areas. Across all of our retirement villages and care homes we are committed to communities where older people flourish by providing opportunities for our residents to enjoy treasured relationships, exercise choice and feel valued.
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.
Keeping your photos and other important data safe
Did you know that if your mobile phone is lost, stolen or damaged, you may lose all your photos, should they not be backed up. Also if your computer hard drives fails, you could also lose files and photographs. There are many ways of keeping your photos and other data safe, but typically this can mean having to use some kind of backup product. Here follows our recommended solution for different devices – please note that this is the minimum we would recommend. Also note that for these products to complete the initial backup, you will need a good internet connection – ideally fast fibre broadband.
iphone / ipad / Mac: Make sure icloud is turned on via the settings app, and the various categories for backup are switched on, i.e. icloud photos / messages and so on. Please note that Apple charge from 99p per month if you exceed the free 5GB storage.
Windows PC: Microsoft Onedrive – this will hold folders such as desktop, documents and pictures and will offer to move these folders into Onedrive when you first sign in (you will need to register your email address with Microsoft if you haven’t already). Please note that Microsoft charge if you need storage bigger than 5GB. You can either pay £1.99 per month for 100gb or upgrade to Microsoft 365 which gives a 1000gb as part of the package. Also having a local external hard drive is a sensible idea for backup and a backup product is included within Windows.
Android phone / tablet: Depending on the make of the device, you could either use the Google Cloud or the device manufacturer’s backup product i.e. Samsung Cloud. Google accounts come with a generous 15GB of free storage, which is plenty for most people. Should you exceed this limit, additional storage is reasonably prices. Google backup can be activated via the settings app then tap Google, then backup. Follow the instructions to make sure the backup is turned on.
One handy feature for mobile phones, is that if you upgrade your phone, as long as the device has been backed up to the cloud, you can restore the backup onto a new device. Make sure you keep a note of the email address and password used on the original device. Should you need any help with the above, or other similar matters, please get in touch. We come to you, so can help you in the comfort of your own home.
Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions Ltd. Tel: 07973 536299.
Computer Problems?
We come to you or remote appointments
• Problem Solving & Repairs
• Virus/Spyware Removal
• New PC Systems
• Broadband/WIFI Problems
• Performance Improvement
• Wireless Networking
• iPhone/iPad help
• Upgrades
• Websites
• Help & Tuition
We have mobile engineers in your area or with your permission we can access your computer remotely.
YOUR LOCAL, TRUSTED COMPANY
Duty Engineer: 07973 536299
Call, text or WhatsApp
E-mail: sales@e-cps.co.uk www.e-cps.co.uk
Crossword
Word Search
Across
1 Herbaceous perennial with edible stalks (7)
8 Itsy bitsy, teeny weeny, yellow polka dot
______ (6)
9 The Moor of Venice, Shakespeare play (7)
10 Type of biscuit (6)
11 About-face (7)
12 Picked, selected (6)
16 Composer of Fantaisie-Impromptu (6)
20 Sang A Perfect Day and Walk on the Wild Side (3,4)
21 Tropical lizard (6)
22 Andalucian town (7)
23 Pollen-producing part of a flower (6)
24 Aerial, signal receiver (7)
Down
2 Enmity, contempt (6)
3 Infused, fermented (6)
4 Appreciate, enjoy (6)
5 _______ West, Dalton and Spall (7)
6 Bystander, spectator (7)
7 Explanation of how the universe began (7)
13 Astronomical event, can be solar or lunar (7)
14 Beloved, favoured (7)
15 Innovator (7)
17 Anne ______, second wife of Henry VIII (6)
18 Contusion, blemish caused by injury (6)
19 UK’s smallest bird of prey (6)
Mindbenders
Vasco
Solutions: Turn to page 18
Complete
recovery from long covid symptoms
“The illness was brutal but my health is now transformed”
Until December 2019 Trevor Silvester, 65, was busy with his wife running the successful Quest Institute in London, world famous for its training in cognitive hypnotherapy. Then Covid-19 struck.
“I got covid very early and the symptoms just persisted”, explains Trevor. “I was treated unsuccessfully for a lung infection for a few months and then it became clear that I had long covid. For five years I’ve had continuous chronic fatigue, brain fog, breathlessness and stomach issues. It’s been brutal, affecting my whole life.
“Doctors of conventional medicine could not help me at all. A change of diet helped - and then I read about the benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy for long covid.
“I saw Matthew Jackson and started sessions every couple of days in the oxygen chamber at the clinic. After the first one, I felt amazingly better. Matthew also gave me a herbal formula for lung health and immunity. As time went on, results could vary and when I hit a bad patch, I rented a chamber from Matthew to use at home for a month. The repetition of using the oxygen chamber every day has contributed massively to my recovery.
“Now I have no breathlessness, no fatigue or need for naps in the day. My brain feels a lot clearer, the acid reflux has cleared up and I’m even beginning to exercise. At work, our hypnotherapy training courses are flourishing, both face to face and online (www.questinsitute.co.uk).
“I keep up occasional HBOT as preventative more than need. Lots of top sports people are using chambers to maintain fitness, so I thought, why not me?
“Matthew and Becky are very professional and their modern equipment and breadth of knowledge are first class. They’re also lovely people who genuinely care about your wellbeing. My health has been completely transformed.”
Exclusive offer
Somerset Health Practice is making a special, exclusive offer to LocalReach readers – One free session of hyperbaric oxygen when you book in for 5 sessions. Or 20% off oxygen rental prices for February.
*Offer open to the first 5 readers to book, quoting the offer code ‘FEEL GOOD FEBRUARY!’
Call 01458 860392 before 28th February.
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 to claim the exclusive offer* 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
Mushroom Stroganoff
A creamy but light and delicious supper
Preparation time: 10 mins
Cooking time: 20 mins
Serves: 2
Planktastic!
Why the plank is such a great exercise.
Planking is one of the simplest yet most effective exercises you can do to strengthen your core muscles.
It’s a bodyweight exercise where you hold your body in a straight line, supported only by your forearms and toes (or hands in the high plank variation). It looks deceptively easy, but maintaining proper form requires serious focus and strength.
Why is Planking So Effective?
The plank targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously, including your abdominals, back, shoulders, chest, and legs. This makes it a comprehensive workout for your core, which plays a crucial role in stability, balance, and overall strength. A strong core not only enhances athletic performance but also improves posture and reduces the risk of lower back pain.
Ingredients:
2 tsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped.
1 tbsp sweet paprika
2 garlic cloves, crushed.
300g mixed mushrooms
150ml vegetable stock
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
3 tbsp sour cream
Small bunch of parsley, roughly chopped.
Method:
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan. Add the onions and soften for about 5 mins.
Add the paprika and garlic, then cook for 1 minute more. Roughly chop and add the mushrooms, then cook over a high heat, stirring often, for about 5 mins.
Pour in the stock and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to the boil and allow to simmer until the sauce thickens (5-10 minutes). Remove from the heat and stir through the soured cream and most of the parsley.
Serve with rice (it goes particularly well with brown or wild rice) stirring through the remaining chopped parsley just before plating the dish.
One of planking’s key benefits is its accessibility. You don’t need any equipment or much space, making it a perfect addition to home workouts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, planking can be modified to suit your level by adjusting the duration or trying variations like side planks or plank jacks.
The Science Behind the Burn
Unlike crunches or sit-ups, planks engage your muscles isometrically, meaning you hold a static position instead of moving through repetitions. This sustained contraction builds endurance and strengthens stabilizing muscles, which are crucial for everyday movements and preventing injuries.
How to Start
Start small, aiming for 15-30 seconds, and gradually increase your time as you build strength. Focus on keeping your body straight— no sagging hips or arched back!
With regular practice, planking is an efficient, time-saving way to build a rock-solid core and improve overall fitness. So why not try it today?
By Kim Hussain
‘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.
LONELY - Why not try Weston 50+ Social Singles Group?
We are a lively local mixed group of singles, mostly in our 60’s and 70’s, who meet each Wednesday evening at an informal ‘Bar Night’ to chat and to arrange fun events for ourselves. These include quizzes, meals, sports, dancing, trips, theatre and music for us to enjoy.
If you are an older single living in the Weston, Worle or surrounding area and looking to make new friends, why not try us for a week or two, then consider joining us regularly? Call/text Margaret 07887 883251 or Rob 07899 755457.
Toad Patrols in Operation Now!
Please drive carefully through Winscombe Hill, Priddy & Webbington. On warm damp evenings during Feb & March toads migrate to their breeding ponds, crossing roads to get there, hundreds get killed by traffic. Volunteers wearing hi-viz and carrying torches and buckets will be assisting the toads by carrying them to safety. The UK toad population is estimated to have suffered a 68% decline since 1990.
To volunteer email:
Winscombe: winscombehilltoadpatrol@gmail.com
Priddy: jdickson61@aol.com
Webbington: bindycardy@yahoo.com
Somerset Sight
Somerset Sight’s Dave’s Diner Christmas Lunch on Wednesday 4th December saw an amazing 40 people attend. After a complimentary glass of fizz, a hot cooked two course lunch of Turkey and ham
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with all the trimmings was served, followed by delicious apple crumble or raspberry cheesecake with cream or custard, all served by the Somerset Sight team. Very yummy. Everyone really enjoyed it especially the raffle prize winners.
We also held a prize raffle and a Tile Appeal to raise funds to upgrade and enlarge the kitchen for future training classes for visually impaired people and private hire.
Somerset Sight is pleased to be able to offer this and other social gatherings and activities for over 3000 blind and partially sighted people throughout Somerset, along with the other services of emotional and technology support, mobile advisory service and resource centre, and volunteer visiting service.
If you are interested in any of these please call the office on 01823 333818.
Cheddar
Male Choir Presents a cheque for £1,400 to ‘The Space Charity’
Last night, the community came together for a heartwarming event at the annual Cheddar Male Choir Christmas Social, where a cheque for £1,400 was presented to ‘The Space Charity’. Over
the past six months, dedicated choir members have been raising these funds through a series of concerts and sponsorship, all aimed at supporting the important work done by ‘The Space Charity’.
The cheque was gratefully received by Sandy Legg and John Pimblott of ‘The Space Charity’ and will be instrumental in furthering their mission to assist children dealing with mental health issues. The charity’s representatives expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the generous donation, noting that such contributions are vital in enabling them to continue providing essential services and support to those in need.
The Christmas Choir Social was a festive occasion filled with joyful Christmas songs, food, laughter, and a sense of community spirit helped by their deputy conductor Paul Beechey and last-minute stand in accompanist Elaine Smith. Attendees enjoyed performances by the choir, who have dedicated their time and voices to this worthy cause.
For more information about ‘The Space Charity’ and their work, please visit www.thespacesomerset.org.uk
(T’s
• Specialists in accessible bathing
• Free home visits and quotations
• Full design and installation service
• VAT free for those with a long-term illness or disability
• Reduced costs for over 60s & less abled clients
• From walk-in baths, easy clean wall panelling to toilet lifters & bidets
• DFG & SSAFA Grant work undertaken
• Helping people regain independence since 1999 “What
Wedmore Village Farm thanks
In 2024, Wedmore Village Farm were lucky enough to receive support from the Wedmore & Axbridge Community Health Fund CIO who bought the farm a compost loo. This loo was built by the Men’s Shed, has a large capacity, has a solar light and makes a great addition to the farm. Part of the farm’s ethos is to help create a cleaner and greener Wedmore, and our new compost loo is a key part of our sustainability strategy for the site.
Huge thanks to Shirley, and the Wedmore & Axbridge Community Health Fund CIO for their support.
In 2025, there will be a whole host of events on the farm starting with the Langport Mummers on the 22nd March, a children’s festival in May and a performance of a Midsummer Night’s Dream by Wedmore theatre in June.
Why not come along to an event, or volunteer with us and you might get to use our new compost loo!
Puzzle Solutions
Mindbender:
1: Rub the wrong way 2: Needle in a haystack
3: Second time around
Wise Sweep Lady Chimney Sweep
Jewellery
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Mike Blackmore & Son
• Leaking & Replacement
• Toilets not Flushing
Fencing, Sheds, Gates - Supplied, Fitted or Repaired
Roof Cleaning and Fungicide Treatment, UPVC Cleaning
LOCAL HOME CARE
“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. Karen
