OurLocalExpert – Local Businesses Recommended by YOU! – Taunton, Wellington and Ilminster 2025-2026 by Nick Hall

Tell us who you think is good and win local food!

Your feedback and recommendations are essential to ensure the high standards of Our Local Expert.

We need to know what you think about the businesses we feature, and about others you think are good enough to appear next year.

By sending us your feedback you could win £50 to spend on local food at Taunton Farmers’ Market, in Rumwell Farm Shop, or at Cullompton Farmers’ Market.

Please send your feedback using the contact details on the back cover.

You will be entered into a prize draw once for each business you recommend. Winners will be drawn by the publisher and notified by 30th January 2026. We will only pass your details to the prize supplier. Full competition T&Cs on our website..

If you use a smartphone or a tablet to access the internet, we recommend that you save Our Local Expert as a bookmark NOW. There is a dedicated page for ‘Emergency Trade Services’ such as local recommended 24 hour plumbers, electricians and locksmiths – you never know when you might need them.

Air Source Heat Pumps

See Renewable Energy See AGV Plumbing & Heating (feature 55).

3. Simon Spencer MCIAT –Chartered Architectural Technologist 07973 653758

simon@sspencer.co.uk www.sspencer.co.uk

For new builds, extensions, barn conversions and any other development, or just for help and advice on building control and planning. Simon Spencer offers a fast, professional service tailor-made to your needs. Currently no VAT charged. ‘Competent, friendly, professional service.’

Audio Visual

See Aerials – TV & Satellite

Bathrooms

We recommend that you involve your bathroom installer when sourcing your materials. They can ensure a quality product is purchased that will fit your needs. The discount they get from their suppliers will be able to compete with the best prices you can get –usually at a higher quality from a trusted source. If there are faults with parts, your installers can chase these up, not you. They will listen to your needs and should be able to find the best match for your tastes and budget.

See also Plumbers, Builders, Tiles and Tiling, Carpenters and Joiners, Kitchens and Bathrooms

See also Pitman Plumbing & Heating (feature 57).

5. Vince Property Services 07476 216661

VincePropertyServices@outlook.com

Facebook: ‘Vince Property Services’

Dan Vince provides an honest, fair, personal service drawing on 15 years’ experience. Happy to supply-and-fit –working with you to find products to match your needs and budget, or to install your purchases.

Bedroom Fitting

See Curtains and Blinds, Wardrobes, Carpenters and Joiners, Kitchens and Bathrooms

See also Foremost Furniture (feature 48).

Blinds

See Curtains and Blinds.

Boiler Engineers

See Ignite Ltd. (feature 56).

Broadband and WiFi

See also Aerials, also Computers. For Starlink satellite (reliable, speedy broadband service ideal for rural households) see County Aerials Somerset (feature 1).

6. Phone & Broadband 01823 765053 / 07751 298904 alex@phoneandbroadband.net www.phoneandbroadband.net

Alex Carrah is a communications engineer installing telephone sockets, broadband routers, whole house WiFi, CCTV, Starlink, 4G and 5G broadband for remote locations. Repairing damaged telephone wiring/sockets. Extending your WiFi coverage. ‘Very professional, nothing’s too much trouble.’

All featured businesses have been recommended.

Builders

Cheaper does not mean better. The lowest quotes may be unrealistic prices which cannot be achieved without cutting corners or by charging you more than originally quoted. All the businesses in Our Local Expert have been recommended for good quality service and value for money.

See also Brickwork, Bricklaying, Stone Walls, also Carpenters and Joiners, also Driveways, also Groundworks, also Kitchens and Bathrooms, also Plasterers, also Roofing, also Garden Buildings. For smaller jobs see Home Maintenance, also Handyman For party wall advice and planning consents, see Simon Spencer MCIAT – Chartered Architectural Technologist (feature 3). For bespoke wooden conservatories, see Wiveliscombe Joinery (feature 14).

7. Green Carpentry 07888 042217

green.carpentry@outlook.com

Facebook: ‘Green Carpentry’ High quality renovations, loft and garage conversions, with expert carpentry and particular experience of historic buildings. ‘Take pride in their work, very hardworking’, ‘polite, really easy to get on with.’

8. P&G Saunders and Sons 01823 680245 / 07971 833397 phillipsaunders@hotmail.co.uk

For everything from a retaining wall or stone wall to a barn conversion. Experienced general builders and plasterers at affordable rates with a high standard of finishing. Recommended as ‘well organised, friendly, efficient’.

9. Darren Trim Home Improvements 07967 920890

darrentrim.homeimprovements@gmail.com

Facebook: ‘Darren Trim Home Improvements, Taunton, Somerset’

For extensions, garage conversions, driveways, paths, porches, garden buildings and other timber-framed buildings and much more. Proud of their friendly, honest, prompt, tidy and reliable service. Free quotations.

10. Webbers Carpentry and Building Services

07817 851682

webbersbuilding@outlook.com

Facebook: ‘Webbers Carpentry and Building Services’ General building and carpentry service for: garage builds and garage conversions; timber-frame extensions; porches; internal walls; external cladding; kitchen installations; internal and external doors; wooden flooring; fencing, decking and gates; and much more. Well recommended as ‘meticulous, friendly and hardworking’.

11. The Wessex Conservation Company Ltd. 07727 177467

info@TheWessexConservationCo.co.uk www.TheWessexConservationCo.co.uk

A building conservation service ideal for listed buildings –including roofing, limework, masonry and more. Most work in-house, calling on their own network of skilled additional craftsmen if required. Over 20 years’ experience in architectural heritage and conservation projects, members of the Guild of Master Craftsmen.

Burglar Alarms

See Metcalfe Allen Ltd. (feature 66).

Carpenters and Joiners

See also Fencing, Flooring, Kitchens and Bathrooms, Bathrooms, Roofing, Garden Buildings

For smaller jobs see also Handyman, also Home Maintenance

For bespoke kitchens, bedroom fitting, storage solutions in awkward spaces, see also Foremost Furniture (feature 48).

For traditional carpentry sympathetic to listed buildings see The Wessex Conservation Company Ltd. (feature 11).

For timber frame extensions, porches and general building see also Webbers Carpentry and Building Services (feature 10).

12. Spencer Bond Carpentry and Property Maintenance 07951 194734

Spbond69@hotmail.co.uk

Facebook: ‘S.Bond. Carpentry & Property Maintenance’

Beautiful functional kitchens from most major suppliers including Howdens; hanging doors; shelving; floor-toceiling wardrobes and more. All carpentry and most home maintenance tasks. Specialising in clever, well-designed solutions that maximise storage in difficult areas like under stairs, beside chimneys and loft spaces.

13. Chris Parker & Son 07701 033144

chris.karen666@gmail.com

Facebook: ‘Chris Parker Carpentry’

Experienced carpenters proud of their high quality workmanship and reliability. Kitchen installations; loft conversions and Velux windows; wooden doors and windows; wooden gates and decking; external structures and outdoor buildings. No job too small.

14. Wiveliscombe Joinery 01984 624638

contact@wiveliscombejoinery.co.uk www.WiveliscombeJoinery.co.uk

Traditional joiners making wooden windows, doors, gates, porches, conservatories, staircases, mouldings and much more. Using a range of woods including Accoya and Oak which are renowned for their long-lasting qualities. Wiveliscombe Joinery pride themselves on a reliable and very high quality service.

Carpet Cleaning

15. Absolutely Brilliant Carpet Cleaning

Andy: 07876 298330 / Tony: 07468 422434 info@abcarpetcleaning.co.uk www.abcarpetcleaning.co.uk

Carpet and upholstery cleaning specialists. DBS checked advanced member of the National Carpet Cleaners Association – guaranteeing they are fully trained and insured. Domestic and commercial. They also offer carpet repairs, stain and moth treatment, stain protection and carpet cleaner hire (free delivery and collection). Over 200 five star reviews across various social media platforms. ‘He was very thorough’, ‘a really good service from a charming young man’.

Carpets

See Flooring and Carpets, also Tiles and Tiling

See also Home Maintenance, also Carpenters and Joiners

CCTV

See County

Broadband (feature 6), also Metcalfe Allen Ltd. (feature 66).

Celebrants

16. Ceremonies with Lisa 07359 771045

hello@CeremoniesWithLisa.co.uk www.CeremoniesWithLisa.co.uk

Modern family celebrant, who helps you create the perfect ceremony for your event – be it a wedding, a birth, or a funeral. You will enjoy an event as unique as you are, or that recognises and pays tribute to someone special for all they were to you. Highly recommended for her ‘attention to detail, thoughtfulness and kindness’. For weddings, civil partnerships, funerals, celebrations of life, memorials, living funerals, naming ceremonies, renewals of vows and more. Call Lisa for a relaxed chat about what you want for your memorable day.

Chimney Services and Chimney Sweeps

Chiropodists

and

Aerials Somerset (feature 1), also Phone &

Andy Bush of Absolutely Brilliant Carpet Cleaning (feature 15, left)

Computers

See also Broadband and WiFi see also Aerials, also Electricians.

18. Micro-Check Computers

Longforth Rd, Wellington, TA21 8RQ 01823 664943

info@micro-check.co.uk

www.micro-check.co.uk

Clear, honest advice without jargon. Computers, laptops, Apple products and iPhones. Repairs and upgrades; health-checks; data recovery; virus removal; internet connection problems; performance issues, Windows updates and more. Also offering: mobile phone repairs; sales of refurbished PCs and laptops; sales of consumables and peripherals including printer ink. Pre-booked drop off service available for vulnerable customers.

19. Taunton Home Tech

01823 740084 / 07883 083186 advice@tauntonhometech.co.uk www.tauntonhometech.co.uk

Taming technology! Laptop and computer repairs, updates and upgrades, virus removal, online security and safety, data recovery and more. Home networking advice, patient help with phones and tablets, advice and setup of home entertainment and smart homes, impartial buying advice.

Conservatory Services

For conservatories, see Double Glazing, PVC, Aluminium and Conservatories, also Builders

For conservatory blinds see Curtains and Blinds.

Curtains and Blinds

Drawing your curtains can keep your home warm and reduce heat loss by as much as 15-20%. Well fitted, heavier curtains and specialist thermal curtains help lock in the heat and keep out cold draughts. You might even consider door curtains for extra insulation.

20. Soft Options

91 High St, Honiton, EX14 1PG 01404 44638

andy@softoptionshoniton.co.uk www.softoptionshoniton.co.uk

Soft Options offers a comprehensive in-house service, from measuring to making and fitting of bespoke curtains and blinds, cushions and lampshades. They offer fabrics from a wide variety of prestigious manufacturers, as well as high quality wooden or metal poles and tracks, and paint by Sanderson.

Remember to tell the businesses you contact that you saw their name in Our Local Expert so they know that it is working for them – as well as for you.

Damp Proofing, Timber Preservation and Woodworm

21. EcoProtex 01823 660957 / 07877 249041 info@ecoprotex.co.uk www.ecoprotex.co.uk

Family based company providing damp proofing, woodworm, timber and dry rot treatments. Experts for applications of external surfaces including insulated external rendering and specialist external decorating materials. Trading Standards approved, with guarantees available covering up to 10 years.

SPECIAL OFFER! mention OurLocalExpert when booking for a 5% discount.

Decking

See Fencing, also Garden Services, also Carpenters and Joiners, also Pressure Washing

Decorators

Cheaper is not necessarily better. A low quote might reflect unrealistic prices that cannot be achieved without cutting corners on preparation, using poor quality materials or by charging the customer more than originally quoted. All businesses in Our Local Expert have been recommended for good quality workmanship, customer service and value for money.

See also Home Maintenance, also Property Maintenance

22. 1st Choice 4 Decorating Ltd.

01823 666571 / 07786 981302

h43wp@btinternet.com

For all aspects of painting and decorating, interior and exterior, including carpentry, coving and a complete re-plastering service. Harvey Rogers’ reputation is built on quality, reliability and craftsmanship – promising exceptional preparation and final finish. Free quotes with no obligation, full liability insurance, Advanced Craft and City and Guilds Certified with 35 years’ experience.

23. Blackdown Decorating 07725 805696

thurston@blackdowndecorating.co.uk www.blackdowndecorating.co.uk

All internal and external decorating, using high quality materials, precision, care and thorough preparation. Personalised solutions for your unique style. For hand and spray painting (internal and external spray painting), wall papering, kitchen unit decorating and more. Dustless sanding for a clean work environment, professional colour matching, competitive pricing, free quotes.

24. Ecoprotex – Exterior Specialists 01823 660957 / 07877 249041

info@ecoprotex.co.uk

www.ecoprotex.co.uk

Family based company specialising in external decorating using materials which are ultra long lasting, breathable and highly waterproof. Trading Standards and Properla approved, with guarantees available covering up to 10 years.

SPECIAL OFFER! – mention OurLocalExpert when booking for a 5% discount.

25. ZS Decorators Ltd.

07790 836052

zsdecorators@hotmail.co.uk

Joby Spencer performs all internal and external decorating to high standards – to the very highest spec when requested. A restoration specialist performing other building maintenance tasks as they arise (plastering, rotten windows, fascias, garden clearance, etc). Reliable, professional, CITB accredited site supervisor who can provide and coordinate all specialists on your behalf saving you time, hassle and usually money too. Working in the Taunton / Wellington area.

Demolition

See Shift It (feature 72) also Asbestos Solutions Southwest Ltd. (feature 4).

Digital TV

See Aerials – TV and Satellite

Domestic Appliance Repairs

For Digital TVs see Aerials

26. V&A Maynard (Est. 1972) 01884 820614

vamaynard@hotmail.co.uk

Facebook: ‘V&A Maynard’

Family run business for 3 generations. For supply or repair of ovens, hobs, dishwashers, washing machines, tumble dryers, fridges and freezers. Wide range of Indesit and Hotpoint appliances. Covering Somerset and Devon.

Doors

See Windows and Doors, also Double Glazing, also Carpenters and Joiners

For a wide range of UPVC doors and fixings at competitive prices to both domestic customers and trade installers visit Window Warehouse Devon Ltd. (feature 29).

For bespoke wooden doors, see Wiveliscombe Joinery (feature 14). For repairs to handles, catches, hinges, etc. see FirstChoice Locksmiths (feature 49).

Double

Glazing, PVC, Aluminium and Conservatories

Drains and Drain Cleaning

See also Plumbers. For drainage see Groundworks.

30. Drain Wizard

0800 1076063 / 07834 712345 info@drainwizard.co.uk www.drainwizard.co.uk

Blocked drains; free CCTV survey of the unblocked drain, drain cleaning, repairs, excavation and renewal. Water mains supply and repairs. Also CCTV drain surveys, sewer connections; septic tanks and light plumbing. Drain Wizard are a personal family business offering competitive fixed prices with no call out charge. SafeContractor, all work guaranteed.

31. Mallett Drainage

24/7: 07498 153266 / 01404 814711 MallettDrainage@gmail.com www.MallettDrainage.co.uk

All aspects of drain unblocking and repair. Free CCTV drain investigation (access permitting) for all customers. A local, trustworthy, family business. Working to your budget –clearly explaining the differences between a short-term fix or longer lasting repair. Can consult on home insurance policies. Highly competitive prices and no call out fees.

Driveways, Patios and Hard Landscaping

See also Groundworks and Excavations, also Garden Services and Gardening, also Builders

Electrical Appliance Repair

See Domestic Appliance Repair.

Electricians

Many changes to your electrical wiring installations require approval under Part P. This includes all work in special locations within bathrooms, any new circuits and the replacement of a consumer unit. An electrician registered for Part P will be able to self-certify the work without the need for a Building Control application.

For solar PV, EV charge points and battery energy storage (including Tesla Powerwall) see Flex Eco Services Ltd. (feature 67), also GN Rowland and Sons Electrical Contractors Ltd. (feature 36).

33. AJP Electrics

07967 300072 apolelectrics@aol.com Facebook: ‘AJPElectrics’

Andrew Pole provides domestic, commercial and agricultural installations and repairs no matter how large or small. Competitive rates, recommended for ‘great work, good price’.

Save money and save the planet!

Next time you hire an electrician, ask them for advice on how you can reduce your bills. This could be as simple as upgrading your lightbulbs, or understanding how to read your smart meter (so you can see for yourself which appliances cost the most money to run). Simple changes to your behaviour can also make a noticeable difference:

• Only boil the water you need in the kettle

• Use an air fryer instead of an oven

• Make sure you have a full load in your washing machine or dishwasher

• Experiment with lower temperatures on your washing machine or dishwasher

• Turn off lights whenever you leave a room

• Turn appliances off at the plug instead of leaving them in standby

• If possible, dry clothes on an outdoor washing line rather than a tumble dryer.

For more simple energy

Chris Mallett from Mallett Drainage (above)

Aaron from Drain Wizard (below)

34. Etech Electrical Contractors & Engineers Ltd.

01823 322446 / 07866 682373 enquiries@etechelectrical.co.uk www.EtechElectrical.co.uk

Etech Electrical are a local, friendly electrical service for domestic and commercial clients. Priding themselves on a professional, diligent service, with great value for money and high levels of technical expertise. For maintenance, repairs and call-outs, inspection and testing, electrical installations, EV charge points, access control, fire alarms & emergency lighting and more. NICEIC accredited.

35. Neville Gould 07530 328103

NevilleGouldElectricalServices@gmail.com

Friendly, hardworking electrician with over 30 years’ experience performing all domestic electrical tasks.

36. GN Rowland and Sons Electrical Contractors Ltd.

01823 661845 / 07899 727133 grantrowland199@icloud.com

Friendly service for all domestic or agricultural electric needs, including vehicle charging points (authorised OZEV installer). BPEC qualified installer for solar and battery storage. NAPIT and TrustMark approved with client base built on recommendations.

Fabrics

See Soft Options (feature 20).

Fascias and Soffits

See The Gutter Doctor (feature 46).

See also Double Glazing (for uPVC), also Roofing, also Builders For cleaning see Gutter Clearing

Fencing, Decking, Gates and Timber Buildings

See also Monument Fencing & Landscaping (feature 43), also Tudor Landscapes (feature 45).

See also Garden Services, also Carpenters. Fire Protection

See Security, also Electricians

Fireplaces

See Woodburning Stoves, also Chimney Services

Floor Cleaning

See Carpet Cleaning

Flooring and Carpets

See Carpets, also Carpenters and Joiners, also Tiling, also Property Maintenance.

For ‘invisible’ carpet repairs see Absolutely Brilliant Carpet Cleaning (feature 15).

For floor screeding see Southcoast Liquid Screeding Ltd. (feature 65). For wooden flooring see also Webbers Carpentry and Building Services (feature 10).

37. All Floors 01823 533025 allflooring@hotmail.com www.allfloorings.co.uk

A wide range of carpets, laminate, vinyl, safety flooring and Karndean, plus many ranges of high quality wood flooring with a variety of finishes. Domestic and commercial. Free expert advice and no obligation quotations in your home or business arranged at times to suit you. Expert, experienced and conscientious fitters.

38. The Carpet Shed Westcombe Trading Estate, Station Rd, Ilminster, TA19 9DW 01460 55077 admin@thecarpetshed.co.uk www.thecarpetshed.co.uk

Carpet shop and showroom supplying wide variety of carpets, flooring and remnants. Luxury Vinyl Tiles (waterproof vinlyl tiles that look and feel like wood, like ceramic tiles, and even like stone flooring). Only stocking products from top quality manufacturers for superior products that last longer. Expert advice and installation to help you get the right product for your tastes, requirements and budget, installed beautifully.

SPECIAL OFFER – 5% discount to customers who mention OurLocalExpert

Fridge and Freezer Repair

See Domestic Appliance Engineers

Furniture

For bespoke furniture see Carpenters and Joiners We

Garage Doors / Gates

Cheaper is seldom better. All businesses in OurLocalExpert have been recommended for good quality products and a thorough understanding of installation processes. A good quality garage door installation should last 30-40 years rather than 5-10.

39. Garage Door & Automation Company (Est. 1986)

Showroom at: 7/8 Swan Units, Sowton Industrial Estate, EX2 7LL 07730 433180 (emergency) 01392 444140

info@garagedoors.uk.com www.garagedoors.uk.com

Installation and servicing for all types of garage doors, including roller shutter garage doors, sectional, up and over and side-hinged. Offering the longest warranties in the industry – and they will not be beaten on price! Highly recommended.

40. Paramount Garage Doors

Freephone: 0800 9176054 01823 618622

paramountgaragedoors@live.com www.paramountgaragedoors.co.uk

One of the most recommended businesses in OurLocalExpert. Paramount supply and install all makes of garage doors and automation equipment. They also perform repairs to all types of garage doors. Dealing with all major manufacturers and suppliers, so you can find a door to suit your style and budget. 29 years’ experience, consistently well recommended for being polite, quick and efficient – for both repairs and installations. Working to the motto: ‘Your Satisfaction is Our Future’.

Garden Buildings

See also Darren Trim Home Improvements (feature 9).

See also Garden Services, also Carpenters and Joiners

41. Sheds Direct Devon Ltd.

Extensive display site at: Wards Cross, Broadclyst, Exeter, EX5 3DB 01404 823610

info@shedsdirectdevon.co.uk www.shedsdirectdevon.co.uk

Good quality garden buildings delivered and installed on an agreed date. Sheds, summer houses, workshops, garages, fully insulated garden offices with electricity, hobby rooms or any other garden buildings. Built to your specification including base-laying. Price includes 1yr warranty on all work. Call for free brochure. ‘Excellent service.’

Garden Design

See Paynes Garden and Grounds Consultancy (feature 44).

Garden Machinery

42.

Paul Prettejohn – Garden Machinery and Groundcare

Blackdown Garden Centre, Westbuckland, Wellington, Somerset TA21 9HY 01823 662656 / 07775 902878

Castle Road, Chelston Business Park, TA21 9JQ 01823 662656 / 07775 902878

Coombeshead Farm, Luppit, Honiton, EX14 4RZ 01404 890257 / 07775 902878

paul.prettejohn@btopenworld.com www.paulprettejohn.co.uk

Sales, servicing, hire and parts for all garden machinery including robotic mowers, with local collection and delivery. Showroom in Luppit (near Honiton). Warranty work carried out for all major machinery suppliers. All carried out in house by experienced, qualified engineers.

All featured businesses have been recommended.

Sheds Direct Devon Ltd. (feature 41)

Garden Services, Gardening and Landscaping

See also Garden Design, also Tree Surgeons, also Handyman, also Home Maintenance, also Brickwork, Bricklaying and Stonewalls, also Driveways, also Fencing, also Garden Buildings, also Garden Machinery

43. Monument Fencing & Landscaping 07598 628219

MonumentFencing@outlook.com

Facebook: ‘Monument Fencing & Landscaping’ Garden and fencing upgrades in the Wellington area with high quality fencing, gates, decking, pergolas, patios, paths, garden walls and steps – all built to last. Working with your ideas to transform your outdoor space. Providing useful advice on materials and design based on over 10 years’ commercial experience and a Level 2 diploma in Fencing. Taking great pride in their work. Free quotes, no VAT.

44. Paynes Garden and Grounds Consultancy 07966 764018

davidpayne27@hotmail.co.uk

Refresh your garden with a design upgrade, garden plan and new layout ideas. Schemes to suit all budgets and garden sizes. You will be left with a garden to manage yourself for more enjoyable times outside. Simple upgrades and fresh planting schemes. Educating you with an achievable garden management schedule appropriate for your abilities, saving you unnecessary cost employing gardening expertise. ‘I cannot recommend him highly enough.’

45. Tudor Landscapes 01460 221026 / 07968 275794 enquiries@TudorLandscapesLtd.co.uk www.TudorLandscapesLtd.co.uk

High quality hard landscaping specialists serving South Somerset with most customers from recommendation or repeat business. Driveways, paths, paving and decorative paving in a wide range of modern and traditional materials. Garden walls, long-lasting fencing, gates, pergolas and decking. Over 20 years’ experience.

Gas Delivery

See Monument Fuels Ltd. (feature 47).

Gas Maintenance and Repairs

See Plumbers

Gates

For automated gates see Garage Door & Automation Company (feature 39).

For access control systems for automated gates see Metcalfe Allen Ltd. (feature 66).

See also Monument Fencing & Landscaping (feature 43). For wooden gates see also Webbers Carpentry and Building Services (feature 10).

See also Fencing, also Carpenters and Joiners, also Garage Doors

Glass and Glazing

For replacing misted double glazing units see Weatherbeater Contractors Ltd. (feature 28).

Groundworks and Excavation

See Drains and Drain Cleaning. Gutter and Downpipe Clearing

Blocked gutters can lead to damp problems and damaged brickwork potentially costing thousands. An annual gutter clean of tree debris and moss helps prevent this problem.

46. The Gutter Doctor 01823 663225 / 01823 259048 / 07828 143498 info@TheGutter-Doctor.com www.thegutter-doctor.com

20 years’ experience gutter clearing, gutter and downpipe repairs and replacements, fascias and soffits, bargeboards, cladding. Proud of his high quality workmanship and commitment to customer satisfaction. Buy With Confidence Trading Standards approved.

SPECIAL OFFER mention OurLocalExpert when booking for 5% discount

Gutters

See The Gutter Doctor (feature 46), also Window Warehouse Devon Ltd. (feature 29)

also Ridge Roofing Ltd. and Scaffolding Services (feature 63).

See also Home Maintenance, Double Glazing, Builders, Roofing

Handyman

See Home Maintenance, also Property Maintenance, also Gutter and Downpipe Clearing

Heating Oil Delivery

47. Monument Fuels Ltd. 01823 650999 admin@monumentfuels.co.uk www.monumentfuels.co.uk

Fast competitive and local! Heating oil, gas oil and DERV deliveries for domestic and commercial customers. LPG gas bottles available for delivery and collection from Wellington depot. Yard fuel pump for collection of small quantities of heating oil and red diesel.

Monument Fuels Ltd. (above)

Remember to tell the businesses you contact that you saw their name in Our Local Expert so they know that it is working for them – as well as for you.

Hedges

See Tree Surgeons, also Garden Services

Home Maintenance

See ZS Decorators Ltd. (feature 25), also Spencer Bond Carpentry and Property Maintenance (feature 12).

See also Property Maintenance, Builders, Carpenters and Joiners, Garden Services, Gutter and Downpipe Clearing

Home Technology

See Aerials – TV & Satellite, also Broadband and WiFi, also Computers, also Security.

House Clearance

See Waste Disposal, also Removals. Insulation

See Home Maintenance.

Interiors

See Bathrooms, Curtains, Decorators, Flooring, Kitchens, Tiling.

Joiners

See Carpenters and Joiners

Kitchens and Bathrooms

See Chris Parker & Son (feature 13).

For high quality installation of most major kitchen suppliers including Howdens, see Spencer Bond Carpentry and Property Maintenance (feature 12).

Rejuvenate tired kitchens with a specialist painting service for kitchen cabinets from Blackdown Decorating (feature 23).

See also Carpenters and Joiners, also Bathrooms, also Builders, also Tiles and Tiling

48. Foremost Furniture Ford Rd, Wiveliscombe, TA4 2RE 01984 624646 / 07854 958406 info@foremostfurniture.co.uk www.foremostfurniture.co.uk

Beautiful kitchens, bedrooms and home offices designed with you bespoke to your needs. Wide range of kitchen cabinet and door styles, traditional and modern. Most units made in-house, awkward shaped rooms and discreet storage a speciality! All quality tradespeople supplied and managed on your behalf. ‘They are well organised, work quickly, and have nice kit’.

Landscaping

See Garden Services and Gardening, also Driveways, Patios and Hard Landscaping, also Tree Surgeons

Lights and Lighting

See Electricians

Locksmiths

Loft Conversions

See Chris Parker & Son (feature 13) also Green Carpentry (feature 7).

See also Architectural and Drawing Services, also Builders, also Carpenters and Joiners

Loft Ladders and Insulation

See Home Maintenance

See GS Welch Plumbing & Heating (feature 58), also Pitman Plumbing & Heating (feature 57) also AGV Plumbing & Heating (feature 55).

For supply and delivery of LPG bottles for domestic and commercial customers, or collection from Wellington depot see Monument Fuels Ltd. (feature 47).

Mains Water Supply

See Drains and Drain Cleaning, also Plumbers

LPG

Matt

(above)

Man and Van Service

See Afordable Services (feature 60).

Painters and Decorators

See Decorators

Patios and Paths

See Driveways, Patios and Hard Landscaping, also Garden Services

Pest Control

50. Luke Welsher 07572 053722

luke.welsher@hotmail.co.uk

Facebook: ‘Luke Welsher – Pest Control’

A fast and professional service for all kinds of pest control and wildlife management. Effective solutions and expert advice. Fully insured. Rats, mice, moles, fleas, bird proofing, fox control, squirrels, rabbits, wasps, hornets and more.

Please tell us your experiences of featured businsses, so we can be sure to maintain our high quality standards.

Phone Repair

See Computers

Photographers

51. Sarah Hall Photography 07846 459919

info@SarahHallPhotography.co.uk www.SarahHallPhotography.co.uk

Award-winning photographer for family and individual portraits in relaxed settings. Business and corporate, weddings and events. Winner: ‘Portrait of Britain’ 2021. ‘So many stunning photos’, ‘she captured exactly what I wanted’.

Planning Permission

See Simon Spencer MCIAT – Chartered Architectural Technologist (feature 3).

The businesses in Our Local Expert have been recommended, so you can be sure of a high quality service. Call, email or visit us online with comments on businesses featured, or recommend others you think should be included.

Plasterers

See also 1st Choice 4 Decorating Ltd. (feature 22).

For floor screeding see Southcoast Liquid Screeding Ltd. (feature 65). For external plastering with insulation properties and guaranteed damp treatments see EcoProtex (feature 21).

See also Brickwork, Bricklaying and Stonewalls, also Builders

52. Luke Cross Plastering Services 07817 844516

LukeCrossPlasteringServices@outlook.com Facebook: ‘Luke Cross Plastering Services’ All aspects of plastering: rendering, dry lining, skimming, repairs, insurance work, hard walling and more.

53. FC Plastering 07528 703367 chapple2009@live.co.uk

Francis Chapple performs all aspects of internal and external plastering and rendering including spray render and insulated systems. Customers value his quality, cleanliness and speed.

54. P&G Saunders and Sons 01823 680245 / 07971 833397

phillipsaunders@hotmail.co.uk www.pandgsaundersandsons.co.uk

All types of interior and exterior plastering and decorating at affordable rates with a high standard of finishing. Includes traditional lime plastering, lime washes and all modern plastering finishes. Recommended as ‘well organised, friendly, efficient’.

Sarah Hall Photography (feature 51, left)

Plumbers

For emergency plumbing call outs see Pitman Plumbing & Heating (feature 57).

For emergency boiler repairs see Ignite Ltd. (feature 56).

For mains water leaks, see Drains and Drain Cleaning

See also Solar Energy, also Renewable Energy, also Bathrooms.

Check that gas installers are on the GASsafe register – a legal requirement. See www.gassaferegister.co.uk for details.

Don’t accept a central heating quote over the phone! Central Heating installers are professionals who need to visit your house to understand the intricacies of your home and your heating requirements. The cheapest solution in the short term may not be the best solution for your long term needs.

55. AGV Plumbing & Heating 01884 906010 / 07794 797147

info@agvplumbing.co.uk www.agvplumbing.co.uk

15 years’ experience for all plumbing and heating maintenance and installations: water; gas; LPG; solid fuel; underfloor heating; air source heat pumps; leak detection for gas, oil, heating and water. Priding themselves on a reliable and honest service.

56. Ignite Ltd. 01823 762099

info@IgniteLtd.co.uk

www.IgniteLtd.co.uk

Recommended and approved boiler installation, repairs and servicing for all domestic and commercial properties. Ignite offer the lowest prices and the longest warranties in the industry. They also supply landlord safety checks, central heating upgrades and hot water cylinder installation. Ignite are an accredited Worcester Bosch Installer, which means they can offer extended guarantees of up to 12 years. Fast 24/7 emergency call-out service. GASsafe registered. Recommended as ‘very responsive to contact and questions’, ‘extremely knowledgeable and friendly’.

Save money and save the planet!

Next time you hire a plumber, ask them for advice on how to reduce your gas and/or water bills. This could be as simple as re-programming your thermostat, reviewing your radiator controls, or installing new flush mechanisms on your toilets. Regular servicing of your boiler and heating system can make it more efficient (so cheaper to run). You may also be able to reduce the flow of water through your shower or taps. Simple changes to your behaviour can also make a big difference:

• Use a plug and turn off the tap when you’re washing up, or use a basin.

• Take a shower instead of a bath.

• Only heat rooms you are using.

57. Pitman Plumbing & Heating 07807 281807

info@PitmanPlumbingAndHeating.co.uk

For all domestic plumbing and heating including emergency call-outs: natural gas, LPG and renewable energy; boiler installation, servicing and repairs; plumbing and central heating; bathroom installations; landlord safety certificates; caravans and more. GASsafe accredited with over 10 years’ experience. ‘Very responsive and personable’, ‘courteous and diligent.’

58. GS Welch Plumbing & Heating 07513 554988

garywelch2015@gmail.com

The complete plumbing and heating service: all general plumbing; boiler repairs, servicing and replacements; central heating installation and upgrades; bathroom installations; gas appliance breakdown and repairs; natural gas and LPG; landlord gas safety certificates. GASsafe registered (571507). Friendly and reliable with over 20 years’ experience.

Please tell us your experiences of featured plumbers, so we can be sure to maintain our high quality standards.

See also Spencer Bond Carpentry and Property Maintenance (feature 12).

See also Home Maintenance, Handyperson, Gutter and Downpipe Clearing, Builders, Carpenters, Decorators, Garden Services

59. Eddie’s Property Solutions 01398 361508 / 07769 874206 EddiesPropertySolutions@gmail.com www.EddiesPropertySolutions.com

A personal and professional service for most property repairs and maintenance in the Taunton / Wellington area. Tiling, fencing, internal and external decorating, putting up shelves, repairing floors, shed roofs, door locks and handles etc. An ideal service for landlords.

Rats

See Pest Control

Removals

60. Afordable Services (Est. 2013) 01404 890194 afordableservice@aol.com www.afordableservices.co.uk

For removals, man and van, house clearance (registered waste carriers), packing and storage solutions. Charming family business providing a professional, reliable service. Proud of their personal service and attention to detail. Fully insured, DBS checked. ‘Their service is outstanding and very good value for money.’

Property Maintenance

Renewable Energy

See Solar PV, Battery Storage, EV Charge Points, also Plumbers, also Electricians

Restoration

See The Wessex Conservation Company Ltd. (feature 11).

See also Builders, Decorators, Carpenters and Joiners, Thatchers

Roof Cleaning

For solar panel cleaning and maintenance see Flex Eco Services Ltd. (feature 67), see also Ridge Roofing Ltd. and Scaffolding Services (feature 63).

Scaffolding

64. Ridge Scaffolding Services Ltd. 01404 891813 / 07789 555685

ridge.scaffolding@gmail.com

Family run business with highly qualified scaffolders. Free no obligation quotes. Full public and employer’s liability. Domestic, commercial and industrial scaffolding undertaken.

Screeding

65. Southcoast Liquid Screeding Ltd. 07983 155205 / 07790 739177 info@sclscreeding.co.uk www.sclscreeding.co.uk

Roofing

Security

See Locksmiths, also CCTV, also Electricians For automated gate entry systems, see also Garage Door & Automation Company (feature 39).

66. Metcalfe Allen Ltd. 01884 38222 metcalfeallen@hotmail.com www.metcalfeallen.co.uk

High quality security systems for domestic and commercial customers. Services include: CCTV and HD CCTV to suit your requirements and budget; intruder alarm systems; access control systems for doors and gates; integrated security systems. Free no obligation surveys.

Ridge Roofing Ltd. and Scaffolding Services (features 63)

WHAT READERS OF OURLOCALEXPERT SAY ABOUT PARAMOUNT DOORS:

The complete experience from survey to quote and final installation showed Paramount to be well worthy of their excellent reputation. The team were very patient and thoroughly accommodating of our needs… both my wife and I are utterly delighted with the product, with the service; with the people and with Paramount.

Adrian, Wellington

Bill and mate expertly and carefully fitted our seceuroglide garage door. They were polite, efficient, knowledgeable and genuine. Would highly recommend this company

Kathleen R, Chard

Someone ran into our garage doors and wrecked one…no access to the freezer!! Paramount came out immediately on an emergency call, gave us access and surveyed for new doors. One month later we have superb new doors fitted beautifully. The work was done in less than a day. The area was left clean and tidy and all remnants of the old doors and mechanisms were taken away. Bill and his team were kind, considerate and very professional.

R&M C, Tiverton

Perfect – two nice fellows, whose work was nice and clean. The new garage door is lovely – I’m delighted!

PD, Chard

WHAT BILL DICKEN (PARAMOUNT DOORS, FEATURE 40) SAYS ABOUT OURLOCALEXPERT:

There’s a lot of cowboys in my trade. I like featuring in your guide because it’s genuine. I tried one of these ‘recommendations’ sites on the internet, but found that the company who ran it were generating their own recommendations! I even found I was called to replace a garage door for a customer taking someone to trading standards – and the offending job was actually posted on the internet as a recommendation.

I get a couple of calls a week through OurLocalExpert. We tell our customers to use your guide for any service they want – we know they will get a good business if they use someone in OurLocalExpert.

We really push your guide to our customers – we like the fact that you’re local yourself.

I know that OurLocalExpert really follow things up when other ‘recommendations guides’ don’t.

Solar PV installation service, OZEV approved EV charge point installation and maintenance, also Tesla Powerwall and other brands of battery storage. Full maintenance, cleaning and consultancy service for older solar systems including breakdowns and fault finding. MCS Certified, Which? Trusted Trader. Recommended as ‘polite, efficient, professional and friendly.’

Stoves and Fireplaces

See Woodburning Stoves

Structural Engineers

See Architectural and Drawing Services

Telephone Engineers and Telecoms

See Phone & Broadband (feature 6).

Thatchers

68. R.J. Matravers

01460 54432 / 07773 286622 rjmatravers@hotmail.co.uk www.rjmatraversmasterthatcher.co.uk

Thatching (new and re-thatching, ridging and patching). Traditional building services, timber roofing, chimney rebuilds and lead work. Advice on fire barriers, fire retardant spray and insulation products. £5M PL insurance (with NFU), Free no obligation quotes, member of the National Society of Master Thatchers, customers including the Duchy of Cornwall.

Tiles and Tiling

Tree Surgeons

Turfing

See Garden Services

TVs and TV Repairs

See Aerials – TV and Satellite

Underfloor Heating

See AGV Plumbing & Heating (feature 55).

Waste Disposal

See also Asbestos Solutions Southwest Ltd. (feature 4).

For septic tanks and sewerage see Drains and Drain Cleaning

72. Shift It

07944 580775

info@ShiftitWaste.co.uk

www.ShiftitWaste.co.uk

Construction waste, garden waste, household waste. All kinds of clearances undertaken: office; house; garage; shed; garden; lofts; asbestos removal and more. All kinds of demolition undertaken: walls; sheds; greenhouses; garages. All work performed at competitive rates. Fully insured and registered waste carrier. ‘Really efficient, approachable and professional’. For a free quotation, call Mark.

Water Supply and Water Leaks (mains)

For water mains supply and repairs, see Drains and Drain Cleaning.

Wetrooms

See Kitchens and Bathrooms, also Tiling, also Plumbers

WiFi

See Broadband and WiFi, also Aerials

Window Cleaners

For solar panel cleaning and maintenance see Flex Eco Services Ltd. (feature 67).

Windows and Doors

For a wide range of UPVC windows and fixings at competitive prices to both domestic customers and trade installers visit Window Warehouse Devon Ltd. (feature 29).

See also Double Glazing and Conservatories, also Carpenters and Joiners, also Glass and Glazing

Wood Flooring and Wood Floor Restoration

See All Floors (feature 37).

See also Flooring, also Carpenters and Joiners

Woodburning Stoves

Make sure your Woodburning Stove installer has experience and is registered with a government-recognised Competent Person scheme for the industry like HETAS. Keep the approval certificate – it shows your stove installation complies to building safety rules and regulations. If you decide to sell your house in the future and you don’t have this, it could hold up or even stop the sale of your house.

For installation only, see LSJD (feature 2).

73. Fireside Stoves 07745 314160 info@firesidestoves.co.uk www.firesidestoves.co.uk

Supply, installation and servicing of a wide range of traditional and modern stoves. Carrying out all necessary building work offering a variety of hearths and high quality surrounds – from Bath stone to limestone. Free design and technical advice. HETAS registered. ‘Quick, polite, efficient, very clean’ ‘he had a good range of products and prices’, ‘I really liked the level of building work he was able to offer.’

Woodland Management

See Tree Surgeons.

Woodworm

See EcoProtex (feature 21).

Tom Clarke of Woodlando Ltd. (feature 71, previous page)

“Your guide is great – I keep it handy in the office for whenever I need any work doing. I always prefer to use local independent businesses so this is perfect! Thank you!”

Sheena G – Langford Budville, Wellington

Where do the recommendations come from?

“It really is invaluable. I don’t like using the internet! I have used it so many times – for an electrician, for a handyman, when I wanted my trees done…”

Mrs M Davies

“Just wanted to write to say a big thank you. Absolutely brilliant. Every person I have called has been uber efficient and professional. I keep telling everyone about your booklet. It really is a gem.

Anna V

“It’s a great help for people like me, who don’t really know where to start when calling people like these. Without your guide it can be a bit of a shot in the dark.”

John D

The businesses featured here have been recommended by local people like YOU! Readers of this guide, Parish magazines, local newsletters, friends and colleagues at places of work. People from the local community who appreciate good quality, trustworthy service. We need your feedback (good and bad) about businesses we feature and businesses we don’t, to ensure the high standards of those listed in our publication. No business is accepted without prior recommendations or adequate references, and we exclude businesses when we are aware of malpractice or bad workmanship. Please make sure you are always using the latest edition of the guide by checking the date on the cover.

The smallprint

As publishers, we act in good faith in featuring businesses that have been recommended to us, and make every reasonable effort to ensure that information is up to date. Not all businesses recommended to us choose to feature, and there is a charge to feature. There is no inference that businesses included are better than those that do not feature. We are not the agents of any of the businesses featured and we do not accept any responsibility for any consequence arising from the employment of any person or business appearing in this publication. We do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracies errors or omissions, or for the products or services appearing in this publication. You should not rely on the content of Our Local Expert when making important financial, personal or business decisions. For such decisions you should seek the advice of professionals whose advice is appropriate for your circumstances. All website links from www. OurLocalExpert.co.uk are listed only for your information and convenience – we do not endorse these sites or the accuracy of their content. We cannot ensure or guarantee the security of any information transmitted over the Internet. When contracting work, you contract directly with the business listed, not with us. We cannot guarantee work or availability. We recommend that you satisfy yourself with the quality of contractors’ work. We are not liable for consequential loss.

GOOD QUALITY LOCAL BUSINESSES YOU CAN TRUST

You want your job done right, ﬁrst time, at a fair price.

LISTENING TO YOU

These businesses have been recommended by local people like YOU. We act on your feedback and exclude businesses we don’t have conﬁdence in. Tell us your experiences with the businesses here, and about other good quality local businesses you recommend.

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

You shouldn’t feel vulnerable when you invite a recommended business into your home. Using local businesses keeps local people employed and keeps our area resilient against uncertainties in the wider economy.

If you access the internet on your phone, save OurLocalExpert.co.uk as a favourite NOW. You might need a tradesperson you can trust in an emergency.

Published by Nicholas Hall