LocalReach Weston October 2023

Community Notices are free of charge

Please visit www.localreach.co.uk and click on Community Notices page Deadline is 1st Oct for the November issues

Advertising from only £34+vat pm Email hello@localreach.co.uk or call 01934 312171

WE SPECIALISE IN ALL ASPECTS OF DRIVEWAYS

Deadline is 1st Oct for the November issues

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

DO YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF LOCALREACH EACH MONTH?

WE’LL HAVE AN OPTION TO SUIT YOUR PROPERTY AND YOUR BUDGET

LocalReach is delivered each month by ROYAL MAIL to ALL of the Weston-super-Mare/BS23 postcode areas, including all towns and villages within the postcode areas, to every resident and business, totalling 18,186 copies each month.

Our friendly team have the skills and experience to guarantee a durable, robust driveway or patio to compliment your home and add kerb appeal and value

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 royalmail@localreach.co.uk with the full address of the non delivery and we will ask Royal Mail to investigate and report back.

Garden View

This month – Blue is beautiful

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

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

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

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

LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES

Are you a local, club, group, association, charity, school or church?

Would you like to publicise your, news, events and information to your community free of charge?

Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before 1st of each month. You can also upload a photo or logo. We will then publish in our LocalReach Community Magazines delivered by Royal Mail each month.

Your Community Notice will also appear on our Facebook pages.

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

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

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

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

Happy gardening.

By Rachael Leverton

Great Ocean Sangha

Practising in the tradition of Vietnamese Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh. Are you interested in Buddhism? Then come along Tuesdays to Faces Cafe in the centre Weston, 7:30pm - 9:30pm. First session Tuesday 3rd October. No charge; Tea and Coffee provided.

Junior Prom Race - fun races for children aged 4-16

If your child loves to run, come and join us for timed 1-mile races on Weston Prom.

The first race of the series is on Thursday 5th October. There are 8 other races between October and May. Full details on the website. £2/race or £10 for 9. There are 2 waves :- 6:30pm - For children of Primary school age. 6:45pm - For children of Secondary school age.

Please enter online at westonac.co.uk/races-2/ weston-prom-run/. Organised by Weston Athletic Club. Contact Sarahridout28@gmail.com for further information.

Crime on the edge with Brian Price

Local crime writer and scientist Brian Price will

talking about science and crime, and how he came to write crime fiction, as part of Westonsuper-Mare Literary Festival. The talk will take place at the Can’t Dance cafe, The Sovereign, Weston-super-Mare at 10:30am on Saturday 7th October. Admission is free. For more details see superculture.org.uk/listings/brain-price

Stuff and Nonsense???

Weston u3a drama group are rehearsing a show for your entertainment to be performed on Saturday 7th October at 2:15pm in Kewstoke village hall. We have a short comedy set in a “B and B”. Free tea / coffee in the interval then a selection of comedy sketches to make you laugh (or not). Tickets £5 from Tuesday coffee mornings or at the door.

Free Family History Advice

FREE Family History advice, if you want to start your Family Tree or need advice on researching come along to Weston Library on the first Saturday of the month, 14.00-15.30.

Next session Saturday 7th October, 14.00-15.30.

For a free no-obligation site visit, please call Jordan or Courtney

Highly competitive with wood pricesPLUSall the benefits!

Having issues with your internet speeds?

Often we get calls from customers with slow broadband. Sometimes the speed coming into the property is the problem, but often Wi-Fi problems limit the speed. One thing to be aware of is that your broadband provider will have a minimum speed guarantee (there are some exclusions) but it is worth finding out if you have this guarantee in place. Give your provider (i.e. BT/Sky/Talktalk and so on) a call and ask them what is the your guaranteed minimum speed. They should give you a download speed, which could be say 20 mbps.

The best way to test this is using a modern device right next to the main router and by using a speedtest app or website such as “Speedtest by Ookla” which is on the Android/Apple App store, or for computers users you can access it at www.speedtest.net - run a test and note down the download speed. Is this speed slower than the minimum speed guarantee? If so, it would be worth ringing your provider and seeing if they can improve the situation. Also some providers can offer much better speeds than others in the same area – here are a list of the fastest broadband products in the local area: Openreach (full fibre) accessed via BT/TalkTalk/ Sky, Gigaclear, Truespeed & Virgin Media. Not all addresses are serviced by these companies but it’s worth checking on their websites.

Potentially, the further away from the router you are, the slower the speed will be, so it is important to get the correct Wi-Fi boosting technology for Wi-Fi to work well around the house. We do offer a service whereby we would come to you and look into why speeds are not as good as they could be, so if this is of interest, please get in touch with me on 07973 536299 and I can arrange an engineer visit.

Neil Buzzard, Director, Computer Problem Solutions Ltd.

We have Mobile Engineers in your area or with your permission we can access your computer remotely.

YOUR LOCAL, TRUSTED COMPANY

Engineer: 07973 536299

Office: 01934 853107

Friends Of The Playhouse - A busy October

The Friends Of The Playhouse hold their popular Saturday Coffee Mornings from 10:00am at the High Street Theatre. Hot Drinks and Biscuits are on sale. The coffee mornings are open to members and non members so please call in and you will be made most welcome.

On Saturday 7th October there will be the monthly raffle to win 2 tickets to a show of your choice (to be taken within 3 months).

On Saturday 14th October: Music Quiz.

On Saturday 21st October: The quarterly Millenium Draw.

A warm welcome

You can be sure of a warm welcome at our Saturday Coffee morning in our old and beautiful Church hall in the centre of townEmmanuel Church, Oxford Street, held on the first Saturday of the month - the next one on 7th October.

People of all ages and walks of life can come together for a meet-up of friends and to make new friends from 10:30am until 12:00 noon. There will be lovely homemade cakes available and a sale of other goodies including books and brica-brac.

Antique and Vintage Fair

Sunday 8th October, 10:00am - 3:30pm. £2 entry, under 16s free. Ashton Court Mansion Bristol BS41 9JN. Fine jewellery gold & silver, homeware, furniture, paintings, prints, vintage clothing and accessories, militaria and much more. Vintage cafe - serving tea/coffees cream teas.

WANHS Talks for October to December

WANHS would like to invite you to their monthly talks at The Stable, 3-6 Wadham St, Westonsuper-Mare BS23 1JY. Entry fee is £1.00 for members and £3.00 for non-members. Doors opens at 7:00pm and talks begins at 7:30pm

Tuesday 10th October: ‘Iron Age Bleadon’. By Richard Bradley, from Wessex Archaeology.

Tuesday 14th November: ‘The naming of species’. By David Agassiz, from the Natural History Museum.

Tuesday 12th December: ‘The archaeology of aviation on our seabed’. By Graham Scott, from Wessex Archaeology.

For further information please visit www.wanhs.co.uk

An English Serenade!

Join us for a celebration of English music from Byrd to Vaughan Williams on Saturday 14th October at 7:30pm at All Saints church, Weston, BS23 2NL, when the Costanzi Consort and Trinity Singers join forces to present a glorious evening of the best music of our land.

Conducted by Peter Leech and Andrew Tyrrell, with the Lochrian Ensemble, Clare Alsop at the organ and soloist Zoe Maitland. Tickets from the Costanzi website or £15 on the door.

Largest SEND Event in North Somerset!

Parent carers of children & young people with additional needs and disabilities can access face to face support through direct contact with charities, support providers, local advice services, health services along with education and social care teams from North Somerset Council.

Presentations from key note speakers, many training workshops on a diverse range of topics, exhibitors, hands on activities and drop in clinics to ask any questions. Parents, Carers, Family Members & Professionals are all welcome to drop in throughout the day to this fully funded Event. Follow us on social media @NSPCWT for more information or check out: www.nspcwt.org/events-1/event-a-day-of-send

A Day of SEND

18th October 2023

9am - 9pm

@ Priory Community School

North Worle, Weston-super-Mare BS22 6BP

Roasted Cauliflower with Spinach, Saffron, Pine Nuts and Raisins

Method:

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

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

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

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 min

Cooking time: 20 min

Ingredients:

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets.

3 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion thinly sliced.

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground turmeric

Pinch of saffron, infused in 150ml boiling water.

3 tbsp pine nuts, lightly toasted

75g raisins, soaked in warm water.

300g spinach leaves

1 tbsp butter (optional)

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

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

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

Crossword Across

1 Dried grape (7)

5 Take place, happen (5)

8 Global, cosmopolitan (13)

9 Male relative (5)

11 Modulate, attune (7)

13 Ecstatic, joyful (6)

14 Dishevel, discompose (6)

17 Artist’s paint-mixing board (7)

18 Weary (5)

19 Hysterical with fear (5-8)

22 Beg (5)

23 Drags a riverbed (7)

Down

1 Convulsion, fit (7)

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

3 Accord, concurrence (9)

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

5 Japanese kimono sash (3)

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

7 Rent out a property again (5)

10 Dispute, question (9)

Word Search

ant killer

bicycle bucket charcoal compost creosote

fork

hedge trimmer

hosepipe

ladder

lawnmower

mallet

oilcan

paint cans

plant pots

rake sacks spade

toolbox

trestle

twine

wood stain

12 Skin injury caused by extremely low temperature (9)

15 Conclusions, denouements (7)

16 Leased, chartered (6)

17 Appear suddenly (3,2)

20 Dastardly person (3)

21 Small barrel (3)

Mindbenders

Solutions: Turn to page 13

Hello and welcome from Mia, Claire and Toby at Meadows & Wood Hearing Care Specialists

Whilst on a care home visit last month I was discussing challenges that carers experience when attempting to chat with their residents. It’s easy to imagine a situation when the person that they care for might have limited mobility as well as poor hearing. The busy carer is often juggling tasks and alarms all while attempting to brighten the day by having a conversation with the resident.

It occurred to me that some helpful advice on how to communicate well would be very useful. Not only for our professional carers, but for anyone who may also be caring for relatives with hearing issues. Here’s our 5 top tips:

1. When speaking to a hearing-impaired person, it is important that you should attract the person’s attention first, perhaps by saying their name or making eye contact.

2. Speak clearly by not going too fast and saying each word fully. Also don’t cover your mouth, its important they can see it as well as your facial expressions.

3. Try to minimise background noise when speaking.

4. Make sure you are not too far away from the person.

5. Don’t shout! If someone is still struggling, then shouting won’t really help. Louder but still controlled and clear speech is what will be more successful. When someone loses their hearing, they also lose the ability to tolerate loud sounds, so a shout is likely to seem distorted or even painful.

If you or your loved one is struggling with hearing clearly, and you would like to know how we can help, we are here for you at home or in North Somerset’s only full time and fully independent audiology clinic. Contact details are below.

18th October - Local Macular Society group to help with research

The Weston-super-Mare Macular Society Group, which meets 3rd Wednesday of the month 10:00am to 12noon at St Peter’s Church Hall, Baytree Road, Weston-super-Mare BS22 8HG, is helping test a new hand held device capable of carrying out an OCT scan at home. The stability of the device is being tested, so partners/carers not diagnosed with central vision loss are welcome. If you would like to take part and or come to the local group meetings in future, please contact Jo on 07947 373 244

Simply Sing - Saturday 28th October 2:30pm, St Mary’s Church Wedmore

Come along and enjoy an afternoon of music and singing. A sing-along, led by ‘Music in Mind’ and ‘Music Matters’. Pick up your FREE tickets available from Wedmore Village Store and Axbridge Post Office. Or, telephone 01934 732282 (Stella) 852869 (Maureen) to reserve your ticket. Refreshments will be served during the afternoon. Donations will be gratefully accepted for Wedmore and Axbridge Community Health Fund, sponsors of ‘Music in Mind’ and ‘Music Matters’, community singing groups for people living with Dementia/Alzheimer’s, those feeling isolated, and their carers. SEE YOU THERE!!

Weston-super-Mare Girls’ Brigade Reunion

Saturday 28th October, 2:00pm5:00pm. 2nd Weston-super-Mare Girls’ Brigade company was formed 90 years ago and although there are no companies now in Weston, we are holding an informal get-together with tea and cakes at Milton Baptist Church. We welcome anyone who was a member or associated with the company to come and join us.

Please ring Edna (Fuller) on 01934 514263 for further details and to enable us to know catering numbers.

North Somerset Modelling Society. “We make Allsorts”

North Somerset Modelling Society meet once a month at The Ebdon Arms, Wick St. Lawrence

on the second Tuesday of the month, also at The Helicopter Museum, Locking Moor Road, usually the forth Sunday of the month.

For further information contact David Pye on: 01934 844927 or visit www.nsmsworld.com

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

The Penscot Inn (Shipham) would like to welcome people to join their monthly Mah-Jong group. Whether you’re a novice, experienced Mah-Jong player or someone who would like to learn to play please come along. My hope is that we can make these enjopyable evenings playing a game that originated in the Far East. First Tuesday of each month: from 7:30pm. Free. Contact details: mark. trenchard53@gmail.com / 07815681580

Fibromyalgia Support Group

We are a group of people who are living with Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions who meet regularly to support each other. We meet monthly on the 3rd Monday afternoon, for coffee in Weston on the 2nd Friday morning and in Worle on the 4th Tuesday afternoon. Meetings are a mix of speakers, chat and information.

We have a weekly hydrotherapy group and organise trips and meals out plus a craft group and interest groups as required. For more information, call Val 07411989478 or Jules 07840189641 or email wsmfibro@gmail.com

Over 60’s Luncheon Club

The Salvation Army holds a weekly Luncheon Club every Wednesday at their hall in Carlton Street.

The cost is £5.00 for a home cooked a main meal, pudding & tea or coffee. Come along & make new friends, all are welcome. Doors open at 12noon & lunch is served at 12:30pm. For more information please contact Jeanne on 01934 425134.

Weston super Mare Petanque welcomes new members- come and play!

Whether you are an experienced player or new to the sport, you’re very welcome to visit us at the spacious See Monster Garden piste (next to Royal Sands). We are members of Petanque England and can offer equipment loan, guidance and instruction if needed. We play regularly on Wednesday at 1.15 and Sunday at 10.45 weather permitting, but we are happy to play in light rain!

Introductory club membership is available at £5 until 31/3/24. Enquiries welcome at wsmpetanqueclub@btinternet.com or via Facebook- Weston-super-Mare Petanque Club.

Come and join us!

Walk in Good Company

Every Wednesday and Saturday we walk in

different parts of Somerset enjoying fresh country air, excellent views and friendly company. Visit our website www.westonwalkinggroup. co.uk or phone Barbara 07934 197780 / 01934

624138 to check where the next walk is, and come and join us. You will be very welcome.

Join us for chat with a ‘cuppa’ and make friends

Uphill Friendship Club welcomes new members at 2:00pm on a Thursday in the Victory Hall (near the school). Small annual charge plus £3 weekly entry which includes tea and a biscuit.

Weston community transport pick up quite a few members and take them home afterwards (01934 644373).

There are talks, quizzes, exercises, games, outings and much more.

All ages are welcome, just turn up and give us a try or phone Margaret on 01934 270178 for details.

The Fear Fascination

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

It’s Halloween, and horror movie suggestions are once again popping up on Netflix and Amazon. Horror movies have been captivating audiences for decades, drawing us into a world of the unknown, terror, and suspense. Why do so many of us sign up to being scared out of our wits while others avoid the horror genre at all costs.

One of the reasons many individuals find pleasure in a good horror movie is linked to our innate thrill-seeking tendencies. The human brain craves novelty and excitement, and horror films provide a controlled environment for allowing us to experience fear and excitement without real danger. The rush of adrenaline and the heightened sense of awareness during suspenseful scenes can be exhilarating, triggering our “fight or flight” response even though there’s no actual real threat.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Louise Addison

Puzzle Solutions

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

A Good Read

Good Omens

by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman

Terry Pratchett’s “Good Omens,” a collaborative masterpiece co-written with Neil Gaiman, is an imaginative tour de force that seamlessly melds humour, fantasy, and social commentary. Published in 1990, the novel has become a timeless cult classic that continues to captivate readers with its wit and irreverence. The original book was adapted into a successful TV series, but the original book is definitely worth seeking out. The story revolves around an angel, Aziraphale, and a demon, Crowley, who have grown accustomed to life on Earth and have developed a certain fondness for humanity. When the apocalypse looms, they join forces to prevent the end of the world, inadvertently misplacing the Antichrist in the process. What ensues is a delightful romp through absurd situations, satirical jabs at religious norms, and a heartwarming exploration of friendship.

Pratchett and Gaiman’s unique writing styles blend seamlessly. Pratchett’s penchant for witty wordplay and Gaiman’s darkly enchanting storytelling combine to produce a tale that’s as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining. The duo weaves together multiple storylines, including the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, a quirky witch named Anathema Device, and a bumbling witch-hunter, creating an intricate tapestry of characters and events.

At its core, “Good Omens” is a celebration of the human experience. It nudges readers to question the conventions they take for granted while delivering laugh-out-loud moments that provide much-needed levity. It’s no wonder that this book has become a cherished favourite among readers.

The School for Good and Evil (Book 1) by Soman Chainani

Continuing the theme of ‘good and evil’ this month, the first book in Chainani’s series provides fresh take on fairy tales. Set in the mystical realm of Gavaldon, the story upends conventional notions of good and evil, sending readers on a journey of friendship, self-discovery, and moral complexity.

Sophie and Agatha are best friends, who are unexpectedly whisked away to the School for Good and Evil, an institution that trains children to become either heroes or villains in classic fairy tales. However, when their destinies seem to be swapped – Sophie, who embodies all things charming, is placed in the School for Evil, while Agatha, with her gloomy demeanour, is sent to the School for Good – the story takes a riveting turn. Chainani skilfully deconstructs stereotypes and delves into the depths of character motivations, making the reader question the nature of goodness and wickedness.

Chainani nicely balances whimsy with darkness in the exploration of friendship which is central to the novel. Sophie and Agatha navigate challenges that strain their bond, and face dilemmas that force them to confront their true selves.

The accessible, engaging prose makes the book suitable for a wide range of readers. The story invites readers to question the shades of grey between good and evil, and to embrace the power of friendship and self-acceptance. Young readers will almost certainly go searching for the sequels.

By Tash Donovan

What’s your favourite domestic appliance?

If we were to ask you which is your favourite appliance, what would you say? Many people would choose their dishwasher, but whatever you choose its not great when they break down. That’s when we are here to help - your local, reliable, domestic appliance engineers. Give us a call and we will make an appointment to come and repair your appliance and get you back on track.

And if its beyond repair, or you don’t want to spend the money on it, then we are very pleased to be able to offer a wide range of appliances which we will deliver and install and even take your old appliance away for recycling.

Being a family business means we know what matters to you. We want to give the service we would like to receive, and we are very pleased to have customers return to us time after time. We recently received this 5-star review from a happy customer on Google. You can check out our website for more reviews.

“Bought a new washing machine to replace the one I bought from them 15 years ago. The new machine was installed promptly and expertly, the old machine removed and a quick tutorial on how to use the new machine. I have used Brown’s for many years and continue to be impressed by the quality of their work and professionalism, an excellent company.”

Our work is fully insured, and we are here to help when you need us. When it’s getting really difficult to speak to a person when you want to book a service call or you want to buy something these days, the best way to contact us is to ring us. If you get the answering service leave us a message and we will get back to you. Alternatively, you can always send us an email from our website. We look forward to being of service.

Making

We sell and repair washing machines, washer dryers, tumble dryers, dishwashers, ovens, hobs and hoods, cookers, fridges and freezers. We are specialists in Freestanding and integrated appliances

Local family business established 38 years All work insured and guaranteed No hidden extras. We keep things simple!

01934 517657

www.brownsdomestics.co.uk

Beloved women come on down...

We meet regularly to support one another on life’s journey. Women of all ages and stages, backgrounds and experiences. We have a simple programme including a short talk and lunch, which gives us space to get to one another. The lunch is provided, but an opportunity exists if you wish to give a voluntary contribution.

We look forward to meeting you.

Doors open 12.30pm. The event runs from 12:30pm until 2:30pm, Thursdays - term-time only, at St Paul’s Church, Walliscote Road, Westonsuper-Mare. BS23 1EF.

African and Caribbean drop-in - 2nd Thursday of the Month

Ago! Ame! The new social group for African and Caribbean communities in and around Westonsuper-Mare.

We welcome you to a drop in session every month, 5:00pm - 8:00pm at The Other Place, 8183 Meadow street, BS23 1QL.

We aim to meet as many people as possible that share a common cultural interest, participate in planned events and join our ever growing community club.

Visit www.agoame.org.uk for up to date info. Light refreshments served.

Like to join a local Woodturning Club…Read on

We are Weston Woodturning Circle and we meet every third Thursday at the Football Club in Winterstoke Road BS24 9AA from 7:00pm until 9:30pm.

This month we have a demonstration from the professional woodturner Keith Fenton. If this is of interest come along and join our friendly club, no experience needed just a sense of humour.

As a member you would be able to loan equipment and enjoy tuition to get you

started, if you have experience all the better. For more information you can find us at www.weston-wooturning-circle.co.uk

Coffee Morning, last Saturday of every month

A warm welcome awaits you at the Weston super Mare Salvation Army monthly Coffee Mornings which are held at their hall in Carlton Street, on the last Saturday of every month, from 10:30am - 12:00pm.

Admission is free, come along & enjoy coffee or tea & homemade cakes at very reasonable prices.

Overeaters Anonymous

Food can be an addiction. There is a free support group in Weston-super-Mare every Saturday morning. Details on website: OAGB.org.uk

Contact us at: oasaturdaywsm@gmail.com

SPA Singles Social Group – South West Established in 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. With branches in Bath, Exeter, Taunton, Wells & Mendip, Weston super Mare, Yeovil & surrounding areas. Social events include meals, walks, music events, holidays, day trips, drinks evening, theatre, skittles, bowls etc. For more information www.spasinglesocialgroup.co.uk or find us on meetup@spa-social-group

The Jolly Dolly Group for Widows

The Jolly Dolly groups are especially for Widows. We have regular coffee mornings, fortnightly Sunday lunches, picnics in the park (weather permitting!), pub lunches, occasional days out and the odd theatre visit etc. If you are interested in joining us, we have three groups in Weston. If you would like to contact me (Margaret Lewis) on 01934 625530, I would be happy to have a coffee with you to talk about the group. We have members from Nailsea to Burnham on Sea and all places in between.

Roam With a Home Is a camper van right for you?

kitchenette, though you might have to stand outside to cook.

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

If you’ve ever hankered after life on the open road there is lots of choice, from day campers to micro campers and motorhomes.

Day campers - Camper vans or Class B motorhomes are compact vehicles for 2-4 people. They can be used for both daily commuting and weekend getaways. They feature basic amenities like sleeping space, a small kitchen, and sometimes a bathroom and are a great introduction to the world of camper vans.

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

LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES

Are you a local, club, group, association, charity, school or church?

Would you like to publicise your, news, events and information to your community free of charge?

Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before 1st of each month. You can also upload a photo or logo. We will then publish in our LocalReach Community Magazines delivered by Royal Mail each month.

Your Community Notice will also appear on our Facebook pages.

Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Greg Palmer

Happy Balance… Supporting your busy life

We are passionate about re-cycling, re-housing and re-using items, working with many local charities we distribute your unwanted items on your behalf. We always offer a FREE 1hour consultation to introduce ourselves and to discuss how we can help you.

Our clients know that allocating time to work alongside Happy Balance provides the impetus they need to make a start. Through experience we understand the importance of working with you at your pace, listening to you and helping you put into action what you want to achieve.

These are all scenarios from clients we have worked with:

• ‘I don’t want to leave it for the kids to sort’ – Feeling mindful that you need to get your home in order? You don’t want the family having to sort through everything when you are gone? We will work with you to streamline your home, recycle unwanted items and organise belongings you may wish to distribute to family and friends

• My partner/parent has died – You’re not only dealing with grief but also thinking about how you clear the house? We are NOT house clearance. We work with you sensitively, practically and confidentially to organise their affairs and clear the house for sale or other

• I am embarrassed – It’s all got on top of me and I just feel overwhelmed – Are you buying too many items, storing them away and feeling like you may be hoarding? Claire and SJ are non judgemental and through experience can help you declutter and regain control

• I’m moving and need to downsize – I can’t physically or emotionally cope with my move and I need help. We are hands-on in preparing your belongings ensuring that when your removal firm comes to move you that you have already sorted through, de-cluttered and made sure all your items, big and small will fit into your new home giving you peace of mind.

• ‘Our family space isn’t working for us’ –Who can help us? Happy Balance will give you guidance, ideas and hands on support to make the changes to make your home a living space and not a storage space

Interesting volunteer opportunity at Woodspring Talking News

Do you want to become a Recording Session Manager for WTN? Woodspring Talking News is a free service providing the local news to visually impaired listeners. The studio is at the Lauriston Hotel in Knightstone Road.

The role involves recording the readers’ voices on a laptop using simple software, which is copied onto memory sticks which are distributed to our listeners all over North Somerset.

The commitment is a few hours once every 4 or 5 weeks on a rota system.

Please call 01934 811001 for details.

Rotary Helps Keep The Lifeboat Afloat

The RNLI collected in Weston over the Bank Holiday and were helped, as usual, by volunteers from Weston Rotary. As it cost over £188m to keep this vital service running in 2022, all of which was generously donated by members of the public, this is a sure way of Rotary living up to its motto of ‘Service Above Self’, whilst having fun engaging with the public and spreading the Rotary message.

If you are interested in joining us, to find out more please ring Stewart on 07776216304 or email secretary@wsmRotary.uk

MS-UK Charity Skydive

It started with a facebook post, followed by an idea, leading to a gathering and finally the formation of a plan of action. Two Guys (both in their midseventies), one girl and a very supportive group of friends from Weston Social Singles: decided they would do something quite bonkers and in doing so, help others less fortunate than themselves.

How much could they raise by jumping out of an aeroplane at 15,000 ft (3miles)? After combining fund raising events and raffles, with the sponsorship for the jump: The sum of £1,150 raised, and donated to MS-UK

HIGHEST RATED ROOFER IN SOMERSET! (42

Google reviews)

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

Cat Lady

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 Anderson