LocalReach Wells May 2024

“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.

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Bad Credit Mortgages

Getting turned down for a mortgage because your credit score isn’t good enough doesn’t just make you feel bad. It can also mean you miss out on getting the new home you really want for you and your family. Or it can mean you get stuck with your current lender, paying more each month than you need to.

So why does this happen? Well, in the old days, mortgage applications were looked at by humans. But nowadays, most of the big-name mortgage lenders use automated computer systems to assess mortgage applications. And if you don’t tick all the boxes - including having a good credit score - the computer will say “no”, even though a human might have looked at the bigger picture and said “yes”.

That’s why, if you go to a high street bank, even something as silly as a missed mobile phone payment from a couple of years ago can mean your mortgage application gets rejected.

But don’t worry - there is a solution….

At Liberty Money we don’t think it’s fair that people should automatically be denied a mortgage because of their past mistakes so we use a range of mortgage lenders who are happy to help people with a poor credit history and some who will actually ignore your credit score completely.

Better still, we’ve got direct relationships with the underwriters at these lenders too. So we can speak to the actual human decision-makers and explain your situation to them - giving you a much greater chance of getting your mortgage application approved.

To get started, give us a call on 01275 244360.

Garden View

This month – Nutritious nettles

As a novice gardener I spent a lot of time pulling out nettles from the overgrown patch I inherited when I bought my first home. Fast forward twenty years and I have learned that I was doing the humble nettle a disservice.

Contrary to their reputation for stinging and being a pervasive nuisance, nettles offer numerous (and free) benefits. These include serving as a rich nutrient source for your garden, attracting helpful insects, and even being a delightful edible option when gathered properly.

You can leverage the nutrient-rich nature of nettles by making a homemade, organic liquid fertilizer. Nettles are packed with some fabulous gardenfriendly elements such as nitrogen, calcium, and magnesium, all vital for plant growth.

Any part of the plant can be used, even the older, tougher parts, and the process is straightforward. Chop the nettles and pack them into a sealable container (to mitigate any unpleasant smells) before submerging them in water. Let the mixture sit for about a month to create a potent nettle tea. Dilute this tea with water in a ratio of 1:10 for a nutrient-rich feed, ideal for nurturing leafy greens like kale, chard, and spinach.

Nettles also double as an excellent mulch for bigger plants or fruit bushes and act as a compost accelerator by enhancing the breakdown process

in your compost pile. However, avoid using the roots or seeds, to prevent unintended growth.

By allowing some nettles to grow on your patch, you support the lifecycle of butterfly species such as red admiral, small tortoiseshell, painted lady, and comma butterflies, and also offer a habitat for beneficial insects such as ladybirds, which control aphid populations and other garden pests.

In addition to their usefulness in the garden, nettles are a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Using gloves to avoid the stings, nettles can be harvested and used just like spinach, boasting a similar high iron content. They’re perfect for steaming or as the base for a soup - blend boiled potatoes and tender nettles with vegetable stock, season and enrich with a spoon of cream for a hearty dish…perfect after a day working in the garden!

Happy gardening,

By Rachael Leverton

NEW from £1,745

RECONDITIONED from £1,045

RENTAL from £55 per month

Come to Henton Flower Festival in May

We are holding a flower festival in Henton Church on the 4th and 5th May. A beautiful time of year to view the lovely displays. The event will be between 10:00am and 4:00pm on both days and tea, coffee and cake will be available. All are welcome, so come and enjoy!

Baltonsborough Car Boot Sale

Sunday 5th May

Baltonsborough Village Hall and Playing Fields, 9:00am - Noon. Free entry for Buyers. Sellers 8:00am/Buyers 9:00am. £8 per pitch if booked in advance, £10 per pitch on the day. £11 Table Hire available on the day. Cash only. £10 Refundable deposit on return of the table. Bacon butties and hot drinks available in the Hall. Please book your pitch via email janhorwoodsmith@gmail.com

Wells Fountain Poets - Guest poet plus open mic monthly in Wells

Monday 6th May, 6:45pm for 7:00pm, upstairs at The King’s Head in Wells High Street, conveniently close to the Union Street Car Park. Guest poet Mark Haworth-Booth. £3 donation towards Mark’s travel expenses. ffi 07929 870580. wellsfountainpoets.wordpress.com

Ancestry Group at Wells Library

Interested in tracing your family history? Book a place on our Ancestry Group and see what you can find out. Groups take place on the first Tuesday of the month at 2:00pm & 3:00pm. Email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk for Tuesday 7th May.

Dance for fun and fitness

Come for fun, laughter and fitness with dances ranging from English to zesty American. Bring a friend or come alone. A warm welcome is assured. Wednesday dancing evenings in May are 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th. 7:30pm - 9:30pm.

Wells Folk & Barn Dance Club, St. Thomas Church Hall, St Thomas Street, Wells BA5 2UZ. Call 01749 674920 or see 176.32.230.13/wellsfdc.co.uk/

Settlement Orders and the life of the poor

At Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall, Baytree Road, Weston on 8th May, 2:30pm. Weston-s-Mare

and District Family History Society present a talk about the 1662 Settlement Act and the relief of the poor, after there will be a Family History and DNA question and answer session. Members £1.50, Guests £2.00 which includes refreshments. We also hold a free Family History help and advice session at the Weston Library on the first Saturday of the Month, 2:00pm - 3:30pm.

Wells and District Gardening Club

Keith Ferguson: Plants for Enthusiasts. Thursday 9th May, 7:30pm at Wells Town Hall, Marketplace, BA5 2RB. Visitors and new members always welcome. Entry costs £3 for non-members and £1 for members.

Nature Course For Neurodivergent People

This is a free course aimed at anyone who identifies as or has a diagnosis of neurodivergence. It is a six week course which is held at the Bishop’s Palace in Wells and runs from Thursday 9th May until 13th June between 10:30am until 1:30pm. Through the nature pathways we will connect with nature to experience its holistic benefits. If you require more information or would like to register your interest please get in touch via email with Layla@diverseuk.org

New Makers’ Conference 2024Friday 10th May at Wells Museum

Join Artichoke and The Furniture Makers’ Company for a day filled with ideas and advice for emerging and established furniture makers, featuring insights from leading industry figures. The event will explore how new enterprises start and grow; exploring routes from training into business, and how to achieve results with effective marketing, exhibiting and retailing. This year’s topics include: Building a sustainable and viable business and brand; Navigating gender issues and achieving balance; Embracing sustainability. Tickets are £15 (including lunch & refreshments) and are available here: NewMakersConference2024. eventbrite.co.uk

Switch Club at Wells Library

Book a place on our Nintendo Switch Club and come and have a go at Super Smash Bros! Dates for May - Saturday 11th May and Saturday 25th May at 10:30am. Places are limited so email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk. For ages 7 and up.

Watermark Bathrooms and Adaptions, the bathroom fitting experts who have been transforming homes for over a decade

What sets Watermark Bathrooms apart is our unparalleled ability to adapt and customise bathrooms to meet the specific needs of individuals facing challenges in bathing. Our team of highly skilled professionals not only possesses exceptional craftsmanship but also a deep understanding of the diverse needs of their clients. We are also dedicated to making bathrooms accessible and comfortable for individuals with difficulties in bathing, ensuring a safe and relaxing bathing experience.

One of the remarkable aspects of Watermark Bathrooms and is our adaptability, no matter the size or layout of the bathroom, we have a unique talent for maximising space and designing functional layouts. Our attention to detail is truly commendable, ensuring that every inch of the bathroom is utilized efficiently. From installing grab bars and non-slip flooring to designing easy-access showers and walk-in baths, we tailor each project to perfection, providing a safe and stylish bathing solution for everyone.

Furthermore, the professionalism and reliability of Watermark Bathrooms is unparalleled. Our team of experts not only complete projects on time but also communicate effectively throughout the process, ensuring that customers are informed and involved at every step. The quality of our workmanship is evident in the final result – a beautifully designed, accessible bathroom that exceeds expectations.

In a world where customer service often falls short, Watermark Bathrooms and Adaptions stands as a shining example of excellence. Our ability to transform ordinary bathrooms into safe havens of comfort is truly remarkable. If you are looking for a bathroom fitting company that genuinely cares about your needs and delivers outstanding results, look no further than us, you can expect nothing but the best – a bathroom tailored to your needs, designed with expertise, and crafted with care.

We work on projects of every size, from individual residential properties to substantial edevelopment schemes across the commercial and public sectors.

PROFESSIONAL

Our business is built on satisfying our customers and producing great results.

We give a 5-year guarantee on all completed work, with all our materials under a 10-year manufacturer guarantee.

ROOFING SERVICES WE OFFER

✔ Re-roofing

✔ Flat roofing

Welcome to The Roofing Contractors, we're an experienced roofing and property services contractor We deliver a full range of cutting-edge roofing solutions and property maintenance services.

✔ New roofing

Welcome to The Roofing Contractors, we're an experienced roofing and property services contractor We deliver a full range of cutting-edge roofing solutions and property maintenance services.

✔ Felt roofing

✔ Roof repairs

✔ Rubber roofing (EPDM)

We work on projects of every size, from individual residential properties to substantial redevelopment schemes across the commercial and public sectors.

We work on projects of every size, from individual residential properties to substantial redevelopment schemes across the commercial and public sectors.

✔ Roof maintenance

Welcome to The Roofing Contractors, we're an experienced roofing and property services contractor We deliver a full range of cutting-edge roofing solutions and property maintenance services. We work on projects of every size, from individual residential properties to substantial redevelopment schemes across the commercial and public sectors. Our business is built on satisfying our customers and producing great results.

✔ Fibreglass roofing (GRP)

Our business is built on satisfying our customers and producing great results.

✔ Tiled roofing

✔

Our business is built on satisfying our customers and producing great results. We give a 5-year guarantee on all completed work, with all our materials under a 10-year manufacturer guarantee.

We give a 5-year guarantee on all completed work, with all our materials under a 10-year manufacturer guarantee.

We give a 5-year guarantee on all completed work, with all our materials under a 10-year manufacturer guarantee.

ROOFING SERVICES WE OFFER

✔ Slate roofing ✔ Guttering

ROOFING SERVICES WE OFFER

ROOFING SERVICES WE OFFER

✔ Re-roofing

✔ Flat roofing

✔ Re-roofing

✔ Re-roofing

✔ New roofing

✔ New roofing

✔ New roofing

✔ Roof repairs

✔ Roof repairs

✔ Roof repairs

✔ Roof maintenance

✔ Roof maintenance

✔ Roof maintenance

✔ Flat roofing

✔ Flat roofing

✔ Felt roofing

✔ Felt roofing

✔ Felt roofing

✔ Rubber roofing (EPDM)

✔ Rubber roofing (EPDM)

✔ Rubber roofing (EPDM)

✔ Fibreglass roofing (GRP)

✔ Fibreglass roofing (GRP)

✔ Fibreglass roofing (GRP)

✔ Tiled roofing ✔

✔ Tiled roofing

✔

✔ Tiled roofing ✔

✔ Slate roofing ✔ Guttering

✔ Slate roofing

✔ Slate roofing

✔ Guttering

✔ Guttering

How Hearing Loss Can Impact Dementia Risk

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

Did you know that untreated hearing loss can be linked to an increased risk of dementia? It’s true, and with Dementia Awareness Week taking place this month (13-19 May), it’s a crucial time to shed light on this connection. Here’s what you need to know:

The Numbers Speak Volumes: Studies have shown that people with hearing loss, particularly those with moderate to severe cases, are at a higher risk of developing dementia compared to those with normal hearing. The risk can be nearly double for mild hearing loss, triple for moderate loss, and a staggering five times higher for severe hearing loss [Alzheimer’s Society].

Cognitive Function: There are a couple of theories behind this link. One suggests that constantly straining to hear takes a toll on the brain, diverting resources away from other cognitive functions like memory. Another theory points to social isolation. Hearing loss can make it difficult to follow conversations and participate in social activities, which can lead to cognitive decline.

Hearing Aids: The good news is that treating hearing loss may offer some protection. Research suggests that using hearing aids can significantly slow cognitive decline in people at risk of dementia [National Institutes of Health].

Don’t Wait Until May: While Dementia Awareness Week is a great time to focus on brain health, getting your hearing checked shouldn’t wait. If you suspect hearing loss, schedule an appointment with an Audiologist for a hearing test. Early detection and treatment are key.

If you’d like to speak myself or the team for further advice or to book a free hearing assessment, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Street: 01458 555533 | 7 The Bayliss Centre, High Street, Street

Westbury: 01373 823076 | 2 High Street, Westbury

Housing and the YMCA’s work in the Wells area

Saturday 11th May, 10:00am - 12 noon, at the Portway Annexe, Portway Avenue, Wells BA5 2QF. Free Entry. Tea, coffee, cake, biscuits. Everybody Welcome.

Carol Plenty will talk about the work that the YMCA does in Wells and surrounding areas, as part of the YMCA Brunel Group. They offer supported housing to 16 – 25 years and 25 year upwards, tenancy sustainment/support, tenants accreditation scheme, support looking for private rented, a bond scheme for private rented accommodation, youth clubs to name but a few.

Royal Air Forces Association Midsomerset Branch – May Meeting

RAFA-MSB next Branch Meeting is on Monday 13th May at 11:00 am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. The Meeting will include a Presentation by a Guest Speaker. The meeting will conclude with an option for a Pub Lunch and drinks from the Golf Club Menu and bar. The Branch covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA6, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA Members, Current and Ex-RAF and Reserves Personnel, Current and Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of RAF Family welcome. Contact Secretary: rafa.midsomerset@ gmail.com or 01458 224057

Life In Hospitality

On Tuesday 14th May, Wells Floral Art Club presents ‘A Life in Hospitality’, a floral demonstration by one of our newer demonstrators Lesley Hunt, who is a retired hotelier from Weston super Mare. It will begin at 2:15pm in St Thomas Church Hall, St Thomas St, Wells. BA5 2UZ. Flower arranging is a hobby for all ages everyone is welcome. On the fourth Tuesday of each month members meet to arrange their own flowers. Why not join us. Annual subscription is £40, visitors £7 Contact Sylvia on 01749 345403

Don’t try these until you have been to HGC!

On Wednesday 15th May, Chris Smith of Chelsea Gold Award winning Pennard Plants will talk on “The Edible Garden” at Henton Village Hall. Many plants we grow in our gardens often have a

hidden element of delicious fruits, leaves, flowers or roots. But you need to know which plants they are so come along at 7:00pm for coffee and 7:30pm for illustrated talk. Raffle, sales table and a warm welcome await you. Full list of talks etc at www.hentongardenclub.weebly.com

Sails are back up in the shop garden for Summer

Looking forward to some sunny weather and lots of community events in the shop garden, starting with a garden party at 2:00pm on Saturday 18th May. Come and enjoy a cream tea or some delicious homemade cakes at Westbury sub Mendip, Community Shop and Post Office. The shop is very well stocked with local produce, and a supply of delicious sandwiches, Burns the Bread baps, savouries, bread and pastries, as well as Hectors the butchers ham and milk from the Windmill dairy. Come and enjoy an ice cream, cold drink or hot drink in the garden.

Make a big leap and a splash with us...

Saturday 18th May “Vintage Cheddar” at The Church Centre, 52 Woodborough Road BS25 1BA. Winscombe Folk Club is staging a Rock Concert / Dance – yep a leap into the unknown but all in aid or the RNLI which is celebrating 200 years of saving lives. The “Vintage Cheddar” Rock Band will perform songs from Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison and of course the Beatles and ABBA plus many more. Doors open at 7:30pm and tickets at £8 + fee from universe.com/winscombe. RNLI Bar available.

Su ainable Flol Design Workshops

Dried & fresh flowers | Flower crowns | Wreaths

Hand tied bouquets | Meadow boxes | Bespoke Bridal

Tailor made floral workshops held in my studio or for larger groups a venue that suits you Book Now:

Joe’s Doors can simply transform your kitchen by replacing the doors, panels and trims. With a huge range of kitchen styles to choose from, this cost effective, fuss free service, can be completed in under two days and best of all you don’t even need to empty the cupboards!

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

Transform your worktops with Quartzize stone overlays

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

•Timeless - Looks clean and modern.

•Hygienic - A perfectly smooth surface.

•Easy care - Wipe with a neutral cleaner.

•Durable - Tough and scratch resistant.

•Easily Installed - Fitted in less than a day.

Having a therapy dog in the Studio: How Orca can help (even when she’s asleep!)

As you might know, I generally work with a ‘furry sidekick’ in my studio. Orca, the therapy dog, is a collie-poodle cross who adores sharing time with my clients. Animals supporting us with our mental well-being is not new, and anyone who has owned and loved a pet will probably have many stories of how they have been supported and cared for in some way by their animal.

The research behind the benefits of a therapy dog

There has been lots of research supporting how a dog can support a child or young person in therapy but what is most interesting is that the dog doesn’t have to do anything special to beneficial. Research shows a child or young person is more likely to open up to a therapist when a dog is present and that sharing their troubles (including making disclosures) is easier for them.

How Orca can help your child

The main benefits of having Orca in the playroom for a child or young person include:

• Increased relaxation

• Increased comfort level (and for anxious family members who come to meetings)

• Increased rapport and communication

• Learning new skills such as responsibility, patience, and communication

• Reduced anxiety and hyperactivity

• Making the therapy room feel more like ‘home’ if they are used to having pets

• Reduced stress and other body changes, including lowering blood pressure

• Increased motivation

Orca and I look forward to meeting you and answering any questions you might have. (I’m good with the really easy questions, but Orca likes tricky conundrums!)

Do you need help for a child or young person that you know?

• Increased trust both of the therapist and the dog

Contact Elaine:

Email: hello@creatingcalm.co.uk

Website: creatingcalm.co.uk

I'm a local therapist, based in Wells, who supports children, young people and their families to help them manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges.

Do you need help for a child or young person that you know?

Supporting children and young people to help them manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges

Do you need help for a child or young person that you know?

Elaine Hutchinson

www.creatingcalm.co.uk

Working together with families and those who support children to look after themselves as well as others

hello@creatingcalm co uk

I'm a local therapist, based in Wells, who supports children, young people and their families to help them manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges.

01749 599066

Elaine Hutchinson

www.creatingcalm.co.uk

Elaine Hutchinson

THERAPIST WORKING WITH CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

CREATIVE ARTS COUNSELLOR

TRAINER AND CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

CHILDREN’S ACCELERATED TRAUMA TECHNIQUE (CATT)

CREATIVE ARTS, PLAY THERAPY AND FILIAL PLAY

hello@creatingcalm.co.uk creative art and Play therapy | Autplay | trauma play sand tray therapy | emotional Logic coaching | tele-therapy

TRAUMA PLAY AND SAND STORIES THERAPY

LEGO SERIOUS PLAY

PARENTS AS PARTNERS

EMOTIONAL LOGIC COACHING

Breakthrough laser treatment for chronic back pain

“Less pain, more flexibility and I remain an independent woman!”

Susan Richardson, a retired marketing executive from Street, Somerset, had suffered chronic pain in her lower back for years. “In the past, I severely damaged my back on two occasions - and I have osteoporosis, which has actually caused my spine to shrink a couple of inches.

“Recently the pain had been getting worse and then, whilst walking the dog, I felt an intense agony and couldn’t move my leg for a few seconds. I clearly needed help. I’d seen Matthew’s advertising and had been recommended, so I went to see him and announced, ‘I may be 75 but I’m an independent woman and I wish to remain independent. Please help me do that!’

“He was very thorough in understanding where and what the problem was and gave me state of the art laser treatment. Regular sessions are important but unfortunately mine were interrupted by the Christmas break. Nevertheless, the treatment began to ease my lower back pain considerably and gave me much more movement. For instance, turning over in bed had become impossible but now I can manage that.

“To keep up my strength and overall flexibility I do yoga and I can tell that my back is now stronger. I also listened to Matthew’s advice on avoiding certain poses to reduce pressure on the back muscles. Really, he was so good – very nice and helpful – and I would definitely recommend the clinic.”

Matthew says “Because Susan has osteoporosis, I chose the Level laser device, a powerful yet gentle treatment without body contact that is highly effective. The machine travels above the body beaming a horizontal line of laser light on the affected area. I’ve seen for myself when treating fractures that it has bone healing properties as well as relieving muscle tension and pain.”

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

‘MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!’

Call 01458 860392 before 31st May.

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

May in Coxley, Henton and Wookey Churches

After the death of Jesus, he sent the Holy Spirit to his followers to help them. With the Holy Spirit, they became courageous at speaking to others and lived generously. We remember this at Pentecost. Join us to celebrate at Henton Church (10:30am Sunday 19th May).

On 19th May we will be walking from Wookey to Henton, praying for those who live and work in our villages along the way. Meet at 3:00pm at Wookey Church or join us at 4:00pm for refreshments afterwards at Christ Church Henton.

RNLI Winscombe & District Branch

Special Bicentennial Plant & Garden Equipment Sale

RNLI Winscombe will hold a Special Bicentennial Plant & Garden Equipment Sale on Saturday 25th May at 10:00am at Winscombe Community Centre, Sandford Road, Winscombe, BS25 1HP.

Stalls will sell Greenhouse plants; Runner and French beans and Courgettes; Bedding plants and garden fillers; Acers and shrubs; garden jumble, patio items and tubs; garden & domestic tools; and guest stalls all at ‘Give-Away’ prices. There will be beverages and hot dogs.

Contact Allan Cooper e-mail allan.coop@tiscali. co.uk or tel 01934 842954 or Tina Joyce e-mail meejlfh@gmail.com or tel 01934 842304.

Weston Hospicecare’s Mendip Challenge returns this June

The Mendip Challenge 2024 is an exciting sponsored event for those looking to have fun, challenge themselves and raise money for Weston Hospicecare.

There are 4 routes to choose from – 30 miles (starting at Wells), 20 miles (starting at Draycott), and a 10 mile and 5 mile circular walk. With all routes finishing at Weston super Mare Cricket Club.

The event takes place on Sunday 2nd June, with a registration fee of £10 - £25 depending on the chosen route.

More information can be found at www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/event/themendip-challenge/

Do you rely on an ageing computer?

In the last few months, we’ve been called in to a greater number of customers with computers over 7 years old, with various hardware related problems. In some cases, there has been data lost due to a failed component and no backup, so this raises the question of the reliability of older machines. We appreciate that some machines work faultlessly for years and why fix something that isn’t broken, but the fact is that electrical devices, especially with moving parts, can fail without any warning, so we encourage people to initially make sure their important data is backed up, and then consider replacing or upgrading their computer. Some customers are concerned about the cost of replacing equipment, which is particularly the case for Apple computers so it is worth mentioning that we can move data from Apple to Microsoft with a much cheaper replacement cost.

Another good reason for replacing older computers is that in almost all cases, the operating system is no longer supported, so with recent advances in speed, security and reliability added for both Windows and Mac operating systems, these are added benefits of replacing an older computer.

If you think that you could benefit from having an older computer upgraded, or even the data backed up, please get in touch.

Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions

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 01749 987521.

Community chorus of 100 singers to perform in Wells Cathedral

in celebration of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy!

In celebration of the 200th anniversary since the first performance of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, WOWFest will create a community chorus of over 100 singers to perform the famous Ode to Joy on Saturday 20th July in Wells Cathedral. Singing enthusiasts young and old will have the chance to take part in an intensive weekend of rehearsals on 6th & 7th July. The chorus is open to singing enthusiasts with some experience from Wells and beyond and those interested in participating can find out more from the WOWFest websitewellsyouthmusicfest.co.uk

The final concert in Wells Cathedral will be free with retiring donations.

Inviting anyone with Macular Degeneration Eye Condition to our meetings

Welcome to our monthly Wells Macular Group meetings at the Seager Hall, Wells. They take place every 4th Tuesday of the month between 10:30am and Midday. We will provide support and friendly social interaction with like members of this group. We have interesting speakers and outings through the year. Tea/Coffee and Biscuits are provided free of charge. We do ask for a small contribution of £3 per meeting towards the cost of hiring the hall. Telephone Angela Hall on 01749 678294 or email me at angela.hall990@gmail. com

Keep Active in Wells with Age UK Somerset

Age UK Somerset delivers a fun and lively exercise session called Movement to Music in Wells. This dynamic, choreographed class is designed for people over 55.

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Held at Wells Town Hall, Tuesdays at 10:00am, £6. This class is a great way to improve your general fitness, have fun, and meet new people. For more information or to sign up call: 01823 345624, email: ageingwell@ageuksomerset.org.uk or visit: ageuksomerset.org.uk/ageingwell

If for any reason you can’t get out and about, try an online class- you can choose from Tai Chi and Pilates: www.ageuksomerset.org.uk/ onlineexercisesessions

The Happy Band Of Ukulele Players

We are a small band of Ukulele players. We like to meet fortnightly in West Pennard Village Hall on a Tuesday afternoon. £3.50 plus refreshments and music is provided. The idea of our group is to meet to enjoy each others company while playing Ukuleles. Due to various reasons our numbers have dropped and we would like to continue. Would you like to join us? Do not worry what stage you are, we are a intermediate group. So come along and try us out. Phone 01458 850734.

Glastonbury Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club

We are a group of Veterans & Serving Members of His Majesties

Armed Forces from Glastonbury, Wells, Street and surrounding areas, who get together at 08:30 on Wednesday mornings to enjoy a Breakfast with like-minded people at “Mamf’s” Cafe in Glastonbury. For further details of when and where we meet e-mail: GlastonburyAFVBC@ gmail.com or telephone: 07929 087260.

Puzzle Solutions

Mindbender:

1: The fast lane 2: Man overboard

3: Pie in the sky

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

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

If you are retired, Wells u3a could be for you

After joining you will receive a newsletter to give you all the contact details of over 50 interest groups. There are events that all members can attend such as the monthly talks by a wide variety of speakers and subjects. There is a coffee morning at the Portway Annex on a Thursday morning from 10:30am to 11:30am where you can drop in and talk to one of our committee members about joining Wells u3a or you can go to our website where you can see all the groups available u3asites.org.uk/wells/home

Shared Reading at Wells Library

Come along to our Shared Reading Group where we read a variety of great stories and poems, reading aloud and chatting about what we’ve read. Everyone’s welcome and there’s no pressure to read aloud. Every Friday 2:00pm - 3:30pm. Email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk if you have any queries.

Somerset Family Counselling Trust needs your help!

FCT fundraises to recruit qualified and experienced therapists to provide early intervention, shortterm counselling for children and young people, mainly from 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. We are looking for a chair Somerset FCT and anyone willing to assist with fundraising. The demand for mental health support is increasing whilst resources are stretched. If you are interested in helping this worthwhile charity please contact: Susannah Walker chair-somerset@familycounsellingtrust. org / 077900098448