ENJOY PORTISHEAD MARCH 2024

ENJOY CELEBRATES ITS FIRST BIRTHDAY

Your publishers take a look back at a year in print

It?s hard to believe that a whole year has gone by since we (Tracie Fry and Tracey Fowler) launched Enjoy Portishead in our local community,with the strap line:your town,your people,your business ? your magazine! We had a great party at Venga to celebrate the launch with our advertisers and contributors and haven? t looked back So how did it all begin?

As 2023 got underway we decided it was time to take action after listening to so many complaints from local residents who felt the media wasn? t supporting Portishead enough

We are both media professionals with a passion for Portishead and never being afraid to push boundaries and buck the trend,despite an economic crisis and a world where print media is on the decline,we took a huge leap of faith and launched Enjoy Portishead

?We?ll print it quarterly?we said and launched with a spring issue,making it available to pick up free from many local stores and different outlets Your response was overwhelming and in no time readers and advertisers were asking for a second edition As we published our second edition in May we agreed to go bi-monthly and in September the publication became monthly

It?s been a blast,it really has People have been very generous in sharing their stories with us and it?s been our pleasure to champion local charities, organisations and events,help promote local businesses and keep people up-to-date with what?s going on around town

As we thank you for being a part of our journey,we look back at just a few of the many highlights of the past year

After launching with 48 pages in March by issue two we were already at our goal of 60 pages We embraced our first sponsor ? Wright-Morgan ? and launched our first podcast with our friend,TV and radio broadcaster,Ian Downsy Downs We officially secured distribution through Sainsbury's supermarket,the library and leisure centre,as well as a huge number of the town?s independent traders and local meeting points Online viewing of the mag exceeded a thousand and our socials went mad with support when we published an exclusive Enjoy interview with former Gordano School head of drama and TV bowls broadcaster and journalist David Rhys-Jones Other amazing interviews followed including former BBC chief reporter Nigel Dando,who lives in Portishead,talking to Enjoy about the death of his sister,TV presenter Jill and the good work being carried out in school newsrooms in her honour and more recently an interview with highly acclaimed BAFTA and Emmy winning film and TV director, Portishead born James Strong

And here we are? a year on and looking forward to another year in print!

You can read all our back copies and hit our podcasts at www visitportishead net/media php

INSID E

March 2024

p11

Sailing with a weir do ENJOYtalks to local dad Adrian Smythe and discovers how kindness can heal and how the rule of 'pay it forward' can make a difference to so many

p21

Making

memor ies with mum

Following years of charity runs to Kenya,Tanya Marriott finally gets to share her passion with her mum We talk to them both about the value of a shared experience

p33

Visit the island of Cr ete Travel expert Ella Price gives us her top tips for traveling on a Greek island this summer

p43

Easter home

With a few weeks to go ENJOY looks at some colourful decorating ideas getting the house ready for the Easter break

PLUS

Page 7 Join the Easter Trail Portishead's annual egg hunt is back in the high street with fun for the family and prizes to be won

Page 10 Land Ahoy! Portishead in Bloom replaces the 20-year-old boat on the roundabout after a kind donation Doesn't it look ship shape!

Page 24 & 25.Keeping it local with our Mother's Day gift guide Everything you need on your doorstep,we bring you inspiration

Page 28 A Country House at War

Following on from the Portishead Players performance of Shrek this month we look forward to their next performance set in a WW2 country home

Page 38 & 39 Health and Beauty Professionals bringing us their expertise and helping us stay in tip top condition

Page 47 We're on the move A heartfelt message from our regular mortgage expert Chris Collins as CC Mortgages moves to new territory - good luck Chris and team !

Page 51 Rich Powell of Powell and Associates Financial Planning looks at pension opportunities at work and explains why it?s important not to opt out

Page 53,54 & 55 Town Talk Find out about an art exhibition,the football club refurbishment,meet our unsung hero plus more in our regular round up

Page 56 Useful people to know Our regular listing of local businesses here to help Whether its a leaking tap or a bed for your leeks,a pane that needs cleaning or a cleaning job that's a pain We have someone to help

GETIN TOUCH

We are thankful to everyone for the support on our journey in creating this publication for our local community and enabling us to take it forward; those people include you - the readers,our sponsor Wright-Morgan,all advertisers,our podcast buddy in Ian ?Downsy?Downs and our dedicated editorial contributors

TO ADVERTISE

Calling all local businesses?

Allow us to help you promote your business through print media ? a form of advertising we know people trust Reach your local market from as little as £35 per month with ENJOYPortishead

DO YOU HAVEA STORY?

If you would like to share a story with us or want to raise the profile of your community organisation or event,we?d love to hear from you

Contact us:

Advertising ? Tracie Fry

advertising enjoyportishead@gmail com Tel: 07766207731

Editor ? Tracey Fowler

editor enjoyportishead@gmail com Tel: 07368250688

Design ? Tracie Fry Creative Solutions

WELCOME

Welcome to our March issue,I can? t believe it?s a whole year since I wrote my first Enjoy Portishead editor?s welcome!

After a lot of grey skies through the winter months,it?s so nice to at last be looking forward to spring and all it brings with it

Easter falls early this year,which means Mother?s Day is early too! If you?re looking for inspiration for celebrating either of these,you?ll find ideas inside and remember,if you?re buying gifts please use your local shops

This month Portishead sees the return of the Spring Show,High Street Easter Trail and the Rotary Swimathon,all happening alongside many other topical and charity events and activities taking place in and around town.We wish everyone involved in these events the very best of luck

Our lifestyle features,with plenty of tips and ideas, centre around health and home this month ? from weight loss and nutrition to bereavement support and from decorating your home for Easter to moving house,we?ve got it all! Our thanks as always to everyone who has shared their stories with us,we try to use as many as we can,please keep them coming

If you have an event coming up,let us know and we will try to include it in our next issue I hope you enjoy this month?s mag and would like to take this opportunity to wish mums everywhere a very happy Mother?s Day on 10th March.

Enjoy!

Tracey x

EASTER TR AIL

Fam ily fun with lots of prizes to be won

The Portishead Easter Trail returns this month,giving families a chance to explore the town centre for clues that could win them prizes!

From Friday 29th March to Sunday 14th April,10 Easter related posters will appear in shop windows in businesses in the town?s High Street,Stoke Road and Combe Road Participants need to find the posters and write the word displayed on each poster on to the entry form The clues then need to be put together to form a sentence and all correct entries will be entered in to prize draw

The Easter trail,designed to encourage people to explore their town centre and the businesses within it, is organised by Tanya Marriott from SoleLution shoe shop at 62 High Street and supported by Reeds Rains estate agent and www VisitPortishead net Entry forms are available from the shoe shop for a £1 fee,which will go to support vulnerable children in Africa

Tanya is a keen supporter of the Jolaurabi School in Kenya and has been visiting the school annually with a group of local volunteers for several years,taking and fitting donated pre-worn shoes to hundreds of children She recently returned from this year?s trip

Tanya said:?The aim of the Easter trail is to get people out and about in our town centre exploring local businesses,enjoying hours of family fun,while also supporting those less fortunate than ourselves?

Tanya works with other independent traders to encourage local residents to use their local shops and is an advocate for excellence when it comes to customer service SoleLution is a dementia friendly and autism aware store

The Easter Trail completed entry forms need to be returned to Solelution by midday on April 15 All correct entries will then be put in to a free draw with numerous prizes being up for grabs Winners will be notified and will be asked to collect their prizes from the shoe shop

SCHOOLEGG HUNT

The Friends of Trinity Easter in the Village Quarter are holding an Easter egg hunt after school on Thursday

28th March Find lettered eggs hidden around the school grounds,fill in your answer sheet and return it to receive your prize All children must be accompanied by an adult and don? t forget to take a pen! Entry costs £2 and there is a prize egg for each participant (including dairy free if required) You need to book your place in advance which you can do via TicketSource

www ticketsource co uk/whats-on/portishead

EASTER FAIR

Saturday 23rd March

Get ready for a hopping good time at a day filled with laughter,family fun,and lots of amazing market finds Bryony Makes?Easter Fair will take place at Somerset Hall in Portishead High Street on Saturday 23rd March from 10am-3pm

From handmade crafts to stunning jewellery,local small businesses will be showcasing their talent and unique products right here on your doorstep Just another reason to head to our local high street!

Don? t miss the event?s egg-static Easter Egg scavenger hunt - kids can freely participate (with an optional charitable donation) as they embark on an exciting adventure to find the hidden eggs with a sweet surprise waiting for them at the end!

They've got something extra special lined up for all you reptile enthusiasts too,go along and meet some incredible creatures as you interact with snakes, dragons,and adorable tortoises It's a hands-on experience like no other!

An Easter egg raffle table will be filled to the brim with beautiful chocolate eggs waiting to find their new

homes,with all proceeds from the raffle going directly to Bryony Makes?chosen charity Vine Counselling

Supporting small local businesses has never been sweeter,so mark those calendars and spread the word ? this is an Easter Fair you won't want to miss!

istock/elena hramowa

podcast

[ pod-kast, -kahst ]

noun

1.a digital audio or video file or recording,usually part of a themed series,that can be downloaded from a website to a media player or computer

By local radio,TV

and podcast presenter,Ian

Before the invention of podcasting,if you wanted to hear your favourite personality you had to tune into their radio show at a specific time on an actual radio The invention of the internet then meant you could also tune in online on a browser and maybe even see the hosts on a studio webcam This was only the beginning of the digital explosion,listening on mobile phones via apps followed and today the number of people listening to the radio via smart speakers is in the ascendancy But it wasn? t just audio from radio stations that became available - all of a sudden platforms began to pop up where anyone could upload their own content and podcasting was born

?Downsy?Downs

My podcast debut was ?The Breakdown?the official podcast of Bristol Bears Rugby,followed by ?The Robins Nest?a similar series for Bristol City Since then I?ve hosted ?Behind The Headlines?the Bristol 24/7 pod (an independent news outlet in Bristol) and am the current host of ?The Hippod? ? the official podcast of the Bristol Hippodrome, where we interview the stars of upcoming shows and get all the behind the scenes gossip I am also,of course,the host of our very own ?Enjoy Portishead Podcast?which accompanies this magazine My audio production company also produces podcasts that I don? t appear on,the most recent of which was for England rugby star Kyle Sinckler

Not only can you now hear your favourite presenters, but you can listen to podcasts dedicated to your favourite topic or hobby no matter how niche,or garner advice from experts on any topic of your choice Whether it?s for information or entertainment, there will be a podcast that suits your needs Like radio,you can take podcasts anywhere Listen on your phone on a walk or whilst having a bath, Bluetooth the audio into your car and listen on your daily commute or ask your smart speaker to play it at home

The major difference between radio and podcasts is that radio broadcasts are ?in the moment?whereas podcasts are themed and episodic Podcasts are usually pre-recorded and radio shows are usually live,meaning they can give listener interaction and react to situations like breaking stories or travel news, whereas podcasts can dedicate whole episodes or series to just one topic,so you can really drill down into the detail Whilst radio presenting will always be at my core,the transfer of skill into podcasting is an easy one

So,if you?re reading this mag it would suggest you are interested in Portishead,so why not grab your mobile phone,(most have an innate podcast app), type ?Enjoy Portishead?into the search bar and have a listen! We dig deep on local issues,feature local businesses and chat to Portishead residents who have amazing stories to tell,okay,we love a gossip too Go on,give it a try!

LAND AHOY!

New boat on Portishead roundabout enhances the aesthetics of the town's entrance

There was much excitement early one Sunday morning last month as a team of volunteers pulled together to get a new boat on the roundabout at the entrance to Portishead,where Portbury Hundred meets Wyndham Way

It got us thinking here at Enjoy,about why boats are often placed on the way in to a town Our research uncovered many different reasons and it seems Portishead met them all!

?Our?boat not only confirms people are entering a coastal town,and symbolises the town?s maritime heritage,it also adds visual interest and creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere,in hope of encouraging people to explore and discover the town further

Additionally,boats are often used as a form of public art,enhancing the aesthetics of the town's entrance, adding an element of creativity and beauty to the landscape,while there?s also the opportunity to decorate it with flags and flowers further enhancing the visual appeal

A boat was first installed on the Portishead roundabout by Portishead in Bloom (PiB) in 2002,but after 22 years of exposure in all weathers and being constantly surrounded by traffic,it had begun to decay Members of PiB began to search for a replacement and put out an appeal on social media.At the same time, completely unaware of the appeal,community minded local resident, Adrian Smythe,contacted PiB to see if they could use a boat he no longer needed as he?d like it to be put to community use Jane Pagano PiB chair said:?Although the boat was perhaps larger than we were expecting,we thought it would be a great and obvious addition to the roundabout and we are really grateful to Adrian for donating it ?

boatyard to the roundabout was a mammoth task but in true Portishead style,community spirit prevailed and enough volunteers stepped up to help Barry Gunter,a PiB committee member,said:?The mast had to be removed and drainage holes drilled before we began the move and PiB members had to dig a trench on the roundabout so that we could drop the keel in Portishead?s Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) offered to help us too and a 10-strong team pitched in with invaluable help,we couldn? t have done it without them Adrian hired a trailer and with everyone pulling together the job was done

?Adrian will now re-install the mast and PIBwill backfill around the keel, surround the boat with pebbles to give the look of a beach and we will then landscape the area around the boat ?

Jane added:?We are immensely grateful to Adrian Smythe for offering his boat and helping to get it onto the roundabout We could not have done this without the help from the RNLI; it?s so good to have volunteers from the town all working together We plan to fly the RNLI flag and bunting to promote their big anniversary as they celebrate 200 years this year We will also plant the planter on Wyndham Way,just near the roundabout,in RNLI colours?

Moving the 3/4 tonne boat from its location in the

Read more about Adrian Smythe in the Sailing With A Weirdo feature opposite.

SAILING W ITH A W EIRDO

A Portishead dad is building a sailing community to support positive mental health

Adrian Smythe lives and works in Portishead In 2019 he lost his mother to suicide and a few months later,when he was feeling more human again,he bought a small boat and took up sailing

He told Enjoy:?It was like a re-awakening of the senses,it took me away from my everyday life and gave me a new perspective,it gave me a new love I didn't really have other people to sail with so I started inviting ?newbies?to help me and come sailing with me Through doing this I met a load of new people

Through sharing my story I found there were a lot of people in the same/similar situation to me,some had experienced loss or trauma,others were struggling to cope with life This motivated me to give something back and so,with some money my mum had left me,I bought another boat to allow me to take slightly bigger groups out

?With me (or a trusted skipper) families/people struggling with PTSD,depression and that kind of thing will have the chance to experience life outside their day to day stress and share their stories, hopefully coming away with the knowledge they are not alone and there are ways to cope with dark thoughts and know those thoughts can pass?

Being able to only offer this opportunity to small number,Adrian is now building a whole network of experienced mindful sailors around the world who are also willing to take people out in their boats for free to help them get a difference perspective

He added:?I am now setting up a Community Interest Company to formalise and grow this project

under the banner of Sibongile (See-bong-ghee-leh)

My mum was South African and her Zulu nickname, given to her by the communities she worked with in South Africa,was Sibongile - meaning ?thankful?or ?grateful?

?Whilst this whole thing started off being about sailing,it?s now about so much more It?s about getting people out of themselves,so it might not be sailing,it might be a career change,learning an instrument or going off to base camp,it?s about a change of perspective,finding a new love and finding something to plan for,to look forward to In addition,if people I take out sailing ask me if I want anything for taking them out,I always say just pay it forward,go and do something nice for someone else It?s a win,win,situation as far as I?m concerned!

?I know the project has legs,it?s already helping a relatively small number of people around the world but building this network means it has so much more potential It?s really quite exciting ?

Visit Adrian?s Sailing With a Weirdo Facebook page to find out m ore about him and Sibongile

Once chasing what he believed to be success ? a stable job,a lavish home,a fancy car and regular holidays - Ben found himself in hospital after a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) The wake-up call prompted a deep reflection on his life's course Having battled childhood bullying and attempted suicide,contentment in adulthood was proving to be a struggle

Discovering a passion for running Ben embarked on an extraordinary mission in 2015 ? The 401Challenge Selling all his possessions,he set out to run 401 marathons in 401days,raising funds and awareness for two anti-bullying charities Stonewall and

WHEN I GROW UP I WANT TO BE?

From conform ing to social expectations to becom ing a beacon of m ental health support, Portishead runner Ben Sm ith's transform ative journey is nothing short of inspiring

Kidscape He raised more than £330,000,earned many awards including the BBC Sports Personality Helen Rollason Award and was named the National Pride of Britain Fundraiser of The Year in 2016

Now,eight years later,Ben remains determined in his dedication to mental wellbeing through The 401 Foundation,a Portishead-based charity that continues to champion mental health support for all

You can read more in Ben?s book ?401?(available on Amazon),which offers a detailed account of his early life and the challenges of completing 401marathons, along with the highs and lows that have inspired his incredible journey

INTERVIEW

Ben Sm ith talks about his m ission to im prove m ental health for all

Since your 401Marathon Challenge you?ve launched two organisations: The 401Challenge and The 401 Foundation, what?s the difference?

The mission of The 401Challenge is to inspire more than 1million people and show them that no matter what challenges you may face in life,you can achieve anything

The 401Foundation is a registered charity that wants to create a brighter,more compassionate world where everyone can easily access the mental health support they need Imagine a world where mental health isn't shrouded in stigma,but openly embraced with warmth and empathy

What does your work for The 401Challenge entail?

We provide talks to schools and businesses all around the world Since the end of the challenge,I have delivered over 700 talks,to 280,000 people across all five continents of the globe Within the next 10 years,we want to have achieved our mission

And what does The 401Foundation do?

We do a number of things but the biggest by far is?

we are currently developing and building an app designed to centralise all forms of mental health support available in the UK,bringing them together under one roof Mental Health Support Options (MHSO's) is what we are calling them,whether it's a professional,a group,an initiative,an online resource, or any entity designed to enhance a person?s mental wellbeing,we are going to list it on our app which we are calling 'Beacon'

Through a series of friendly and completely anonymous questions,we can curate a personalised list of support tailored to a person?s specific needs, ensuring they receive the support they require, precisely when and how they need it and the best part is,it will be entirely free to use Our commitment extends beyond being a go-to resource for discovering the most suitable support for a person?s mental health needs though,we want to be able to offer financial assistance to projects and people in need,making these mental health services accessible to all across the UK Beacon,in the palm of your hand will become a lifeline for many,offering right here,right now access to support that?s right for

them Whether you're an individual looking for support for yourself, someone looking for support for another,or an organisation wanting to make mental health a focus,Beacon will be there to guide you every step of the way

What do you need to m ake this happen?

For starters we need funds and hope schools, organisations,groups,businesses and individuals will all take it upon themselves to help us raise the funds needed to bring this project to life We also need to build networks in communities across the UKto help us connect with mental health services and organisations

Where can people get m ore inform ation?

If we are talking about The 401Challenge and the various talks we deliver,you can visit www the401challenge co uk To support the charity work we are doing,visit www the401foundation co uk

LASER THERAPY

Viv Rfrom Watkins & Tasker vets talks about the increase in popularity of this non- invasive and painless treatment for pets

Laser therapy is a non-invasive and painless treatment that uses red and infrared light to reduce pain,reduce swelling and accelerate healing of wounds and other injuries It is applied to the specific areas of the body that need treatment,rather than being a whole-body therapy Animals do not get any sensation from laser therapy,so it is very well tolerated by our patients

The three most common applications of laser are for musculoskeletal pain relief,wound healing and post-surgical healing

Pain relief

Laser is extremely effective at reducing pain in pets, without any unwanted side effects

Wounds

Laser will accelerate the healing time of wounds and increase the quality of the healing,meaning less scar tissue develops in the area and the repaired tissues

will heal much stronger with better tensile strength

Post- surgery

Laser can also be used on post-surgical wounds to gain similar benefits, such as reducing post-surgical swelling,aiding localised pain relief, improving the quality and speed of healing and reducing scar tissue formation

At Watkins & Tasker we will be pleased to discuss if your pet could benefit from laser therapy

Photo: Alan Harrison

WALKIN? THE DOG

Readers share their favourite places to walk their four legged friends

Knowing that we will soon be heading in to ?bluebell season?we couldn? t resist bringing Prior?s Wood at Portbury to your attention this month,kindly shared with us by our friends at Visit Portishead (check out the website www visitportishead net)

Once part of the Tyntesfield Estate, this wildlife-rich nature reserve is blessed with ancient woodland and streams but it?s definitely best known for its magnificent bluebell displays in spring!

Owned by Avon Wildlife Trust, whilst it?s a terrific place to walk the dog,the trust does ask dog owners to be responsible and keep their dogs on a lead for this walk to avoid disturbing the precious wildlife within the reserve,but that doesn? t mean you dog can? t enjoy a good old ramble even if it is right at your side You can access the wood from a variety of points but the most common is to enter via Portbury?s Caswell Lane ? if you follow Caswell Lane with Portbury behind you,you will see pathway heading in to the woodland somewhere around the property at number 17 next to Prior Wood Path You?ll need to park on the road and it?s advised to park in Portbury village and make the last short distance along Caswell Lane to the entrance on foot if possible

Once inside the woods,there are a few different paths you can take, so explore at your leisure and if you?re lucky enough to visit when the bluebells are out,enjoy! Another place to enter Prior?s Wood is from Wraxall from where you can head through the most southern part of the wood via the Gordano Round You can park up opposite the entrance to The Downs School (Charlton Drive) and walk northwards across fields and along the footpaths to head in to the wood

April/May is probably the best time to catch the bluebells in full splendour but if it?s been mild you might find some starting to bloom in late March

Ordnance Survey grid ref:ST490 745

www avonwildlifetrust org uk/ nature-reserves/priors-wood

Entering the woodland at this point you will soon come to a fork in the path Both directions take you further in to the wood but the right-hand path takes you past horses in a field,so if your dog is likely to react to the horses,perhaps stick to the left fork

THEBENEFITSOF OUTSTANDINGCHILDCARE

Natalie Collins,manager at The Nursery in Portishead,looks at the developmental advantages for babies attending nursery sessions

At our recent open day a parent told me that having visited The Nursery they had decided they would register their 10-month-old baby with us,not because they particularly needed childcare, because both parents had flexible working hours and they had a strong family support network,but because they could see instantly the developmental benefits for their child

During our open morning the little one had enjoyed a number of activities surrounded by other babies, watching,playing and interacting There?s no doubt nursery sessions can be a very positive experience for babies and children,with multiple benefits that

include helping with your child?s confidence and development from an early age

At The Nursery we pride ourselves on offering a home from home environment,taking in to consideration parents? wishes and routines from home Sessions don? t need to be every day; some families use us five days a week from when we open until we close,while others just use us for one or two sessions a week The choice is yours and with new government funding being introduced this year, outstanding childcare is becoming more accessible than ever

istock/Santypan

Som e of the m any benefits of using an outstanding childcare provider:

- COGNITIVEDEVELOPMENT

At The Nursery babies are exposed to a wide range of age-appropriate toys,books and activities that help stimulate their brain and enhance their cognitive skills They are encouraged to explore,problem-solve, and engage in imaginative play,which supports their overall cognitive development Babies are also exposed to rich language input from caregivers and interact with their peer,promoting early language development

- SOCIALAND EMOTIONALDEVELOPMENT

Babies learn important social skills by interacting with other children They learn how to share,take turns and cooperate with others,all which are valuable skills for their social development Nursery sessions also provide a safe and nurturing environment with qualified,experienced and caring staff to supports babies?emotional development

- PHYSICALDEVELOPMENT

Access to a variety of age-appropriate toys and equipment encourages physical activity and gross motor skill development Crawling,walking,climbing and engaging in sensory play,helps strengthen muscles and coordination.Nursery sessions also provide opportunities for outdoor play,allowing little ones to explore and develop their physical abilities in a safe and supervised environment

- INDEPENDENCE

Babies are encouraged to engage in age-appropriate activities independently,such as feeding themselves,tidying up and dressing This

fosters their sense of independence,laying the foundation for self-help skills they will continue to develop as they grow older

- DIVERSITY

Nursery sessions provide a rich and diverse learning environment with little ones exposed to a variety of experiences,cultures and perspectives through interactions with caregivers and peers from different backgrounds This helps broaden their understanding of the world and promotes inclusivity and acceptance from an early age

At The Nursery we are committed to providing memorable childhoods for those in our care providing a wide range of exciting experiences with emphasis on awe and wonder

If you are interested in what The Nursery can offer your child,we would be pleased to show you around and answer your questions

In addition,we are currently running free baby groups for parents expecting a baby and those with babies aged 0-9 months This is a coffee morning open to all,not just those seeking childcare,taking place at The Nursery on Monday mornings throughout March 10-11am It?s an opportunity to meet other parents and enjoy a hot drink and actually drink it while it?s still hot,as there will be team members on hand to hold and interact with your baby and engage them in the sensory activities which will be available

To register your free place at a baby group, book a show around or just find out m ore about The Nursery and what we offer, please give us a call on 01275 402140 or em ail adm in@thenursery uk com

COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

Sponsored by Wright-Morgan

RHYMETIME

Songsandstoriesfor thoseage0-4years.

FreePortisheadLibrary,Harbour Road

EveryTuesday(termtime only) 930-10am& 10.30-11.30am

BookviaEventbrite

STROKE CLUB

MEMORY CAFÉ

Runby theRotary Clubof Portishead

A funand friendly settingfor thosewithdementiaand their carerswithsongs, gamesandacupof tea JubileeHall, SladeRoad

On thefirst andthirdTuesday of every month 215-345pm Findout moreby callingBrianon 01275871197or Jacqui on01275845233

DI GI TA L H ELP

Run by stroke survivors for stroke survivors and their carers, this is a friendly drop in coffee morning offering information and advice

Clarence House, High Street, Portishead

On the first Friday of each month from 10 30am-12 30pm Contact Lori at lorrainerow sell@bt int ernet com or 01275 818492

TALKCLUB

A friendly group aimed at helping men look after their mentalhealth

Wednesdays6.30-8.30pm

The Beacon Hub

Portishead Methodist Church,High Street wwwtalkclub org

FREE BABY GROUPS

For those aged 9 months+ and their carers

Every Monday 10-11am

Tea & coffee

Fun, sensory play, advice, friendship

Book your free place

01275 402140

If

Free assistance from computer helpers to support people improve their basic IT skills

Portishead Library, Harbour Road

Alternate Tues & Weds 10am-1pm & Thurs 1-3pm

See staff to book

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP

Grief doesn? t stop after the funeral

A space to talk, to just be, a space to share memories

2nd Tuesday of each month 2.30pm ? 4pm

St NicholasChurch, Nore Road

DANCE

Folk Feet offers friendship,light exercise and fun with country dancing for all

North Weston Hall

Tuesdays 9 30am - 1130am

CallJillElliot on 07515 904707 or emailjillyelliot@gmailcom

CHILDR EN ?S CEN TR E

A hub of services aimed at families with young children

So many people seem surprised when they hear Portishead has a Children?s Centre,that the team at Enjoy decided to take a closer look find out what goes on there!

Portishead Children's Centre,situated within the St Barnabas Centre on the site of the former St Barnabas C of ESchool on West Hill,hosts a whole range of activities and groups for children 0-4,their families and their community

The centre is home to a Well Baby Clinic,a drop-in Health Visitors?Hub and Café Mamma,a friendly and welcoming breastfeeding support group,where partners and siblings are welcome It?s also where the town?s midwives are based

A childminder networking group also regularly meets at the centre and there?s a weekly home ed play club

In addition to these regular clubs,sessions and meetings,Hilltop Preschool has its own designated classroom within the Children?s Centre, where the children have their own outdoor space too Dyslexia Portishead,which offers weekly tuition with specialist teachers to help children build crucial literacy and processing skills,is also situated within the centre

You can find out more about Portishead Children Centre and the services available within it by searching Children?s Centres on North Somerset Council?s,North Somerset Online Directory (nsod)

MAKING MEMORIES

A mum and daughter experience both will never forget

Mother?s Day is a great time to make lasting memories with,or reflect on wonderful memories of, our mums

This year Tanya Marriott,who runs SoleLution shoe shop,has made some very special memories with her mum

Tanya makes an annual trip each year to a vulnerable community in Kenya to fit pre-worn shoes, donated through her shop,for around 800 pupils at Jolaurabi School in a poor village near Mombasa In January this year Tanya was,for the first time, accompanied by her mum Joy.

Tanya told Enjoy:?Mum and dad have always been very supportive of my annual trips to Kenya I'm very lucky to have such a close relationship with both of them and have mum to thank for both the idea of SoleLution and the name!

?We have had numerous Facetime calls during my trips over the years with me excitedly telling them what we'd been up to As they got to see and hear more about my visits,mum and dad started taking an active interest and began sponsoring a child each

?I've been asking my parents to join us on a visit to Jolaurabi School for a few years and this time mum said yes! I was over the moon,but it wasn? t until we got on the plane that I truly believed it would really happen ?

Joining Tanya for the two week visit,at the age of 77 Joy immersed herself in a different culture and got involved in the

work carried out by her daughter and the charity Educate The Kids

Joy said:?I am very proud of Tanya for organising the collecting,sorting and packing of donated shoes each year,helped by a great team It was so special to be able to share such a fantastic experience with her and see firsthand how happy the children are to be fitted with socks and shoes for a school they love They are so appreciative of having the chance of an education thanks to Educate the Kids,which aims to help them out of poverty by giving them a hand up though education,rather than a handout It was a truly a wonderful trip shared with a great team of volunteers,but most special of all was being able to share Tanya?s passion for helping this vulnerable community The experience was amazing and quite emotional at times,possibly helped by the fact I hope to return ?

Reflecting on the trip Tanya said:?I

am very aware I?m so incredibly lucky to have my mum around and also have such a special friendship with her,this trip was icing on the cake! To show her firsthand what a wonderful place Jolaurabi School is,to introduce her to the children her and dad sponsor and to my extended Kenyan family has been a real honour Even better is the fact I got to watch her fall in love with the place,just like I did Mum and I already had a strong bond but this trip has brought a unique closeness that it?s difficult to explain.We shared some very special experiences on this trip that we?ll never forget ?

From humble beginnings the charity Educate The Kids,set up by Maureen McIntyre - a UK resident who came across a village living in poverty while in Kenya on holiday in 1998 - is now thriving It has many supporters and has funded the building of a school to provide education and a hearty meal each day for more than 800 children As a result thousands of children have received a primary and secondary education and many have gone on to university The education gives these children hope for a brighter future

Find out more at www.educatethekids.com

UPCLOSEANDPERSONAL

A look at Mother?s Day with Heidi Loughlin

What does Mother?s Day m ean to you?

I feel awful to say that Mother?s Day has become more important to me since I became a mother myself That doesn? t mean I didn? t appreciate my mum before,it?s just that I hadn? t really realised mums are full-time lifestyle co-ordinators on top of their normal jobs,they?re just never off duty I think I can safely say it?s the hardest but most rewarding job I?ve ever had So Mother?s Day is a great time to show mums they are appreciated - it?s definitely nice to be recognised by the kids for working so hard looking after them,no matter what their age Do you have a m essage for your m um for this Mother?s Day?

I?d like to thank my mum for all she?s done for me and all the family I?d like to thank her for all the babysitting,not forgetting all the nice restaurants we?ve been to on Mother?s Day and received freebies

like a glass of champagne to celebrate the occasion!

What about a m essage for your sons?

I think I?ve only had breakfast in bed once and I really loved that so maybe they could take that on board!

Worst Mother?s Day?

When I ended up having to cook for everyone as we couldn? t get a booking anywhere I hate cooking!

Best Mother?s Day?

The one that really sticks in my mind,is about 15 years ago having a Mother?s Day family meal at the Walton Park Hotel in Clevedon It felt old fashioned in a nice way and very formal,which I really loved as it was different; it made it special Everything was extremely slick right from the beginning; I didn? t have to lift a finger for us all to have a really lovely time Do you have any plans on how will you spend Mother?s Day this year?

Well at the time of writing this I?m back in hospital so I hope I?m back home and my kids have read this. That one breakfast in bed went down a treat so? don? t mind if I do!

Heidi is a mum,author,motivational speaker and insurance broker

You can find out more about her in her Storm in a Tit Cup blog but it?s not for the faint hearted You can also read her story in her book, Heidi?s Lifeline,available by emailing Heidi@theproectionparent co uk

LOVEYOURHIGH STREET

Support your local businesses this Mother?s Day

Shopping locally for Mother's Day is a wonderful way to support our community while also finding unique and meaningful gifts for your mum

Discover one-of-a-kind gifts that you won't find in big-box stores and if you explore your local traders you will find handmade gifts and cards, some of them made by local artists and crafters, reflecting the creativity in our town Shopping with your independent traders not only allows you to find unique gifts while supporting small businesses,it also promotes sustainability ? something we should all be mindful of these days

your local shops and nurture that sense of community that we Portishead residents love so much

By choosing to shop locally this Mother?s Day,you are making a positive impact on our community while finding the perfect gift to honour and celebrate your mum on her special day ? it?s a win,win situation!

And remember you lovely people ? recent studies suggest when people shop in their local communities around 70%of what you spend stays right here supporting the community

So when buying Mother?s Day gifts,or gifts for any occasion,enjoy the personalised customer service at

If we don? t use them we could lose them so please do shop local whenever you can

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M OTHER?S DAY GIFT GUIDE

Presents galore for your mum ? right on your doorstep!

SAY IT WITH FLOWERS!

All mums love a bouquet of flowers on Mother's Day and Season's Florist at 139a High Street,Portishead,is taking bookings now Whether you want to collect them or have flowers delivered to your mum's door in Portishead,give Season?s Florist a call on 01275 817528 Mel and Ed will be staying open until 6pm on Saturday 9th March and will be open on the Sunday morning for those of you who are more last minute but remember,Mother's Day is one of the busiest times of the year for a florist so place your order early to avoid disappointment In addition to cut flower,Season's has a great selection of house plants and plants for your garden (seasonal)

HAIR & BEAUTY

Tonic Hair and Beauty House has a special Mother's Day packagetreat mum to a 30 minute massage and wash and blow dry for just £50 Buy your Mother's Day gift voucher for this special offer - valid until 30th April 2024 Call 01275 843554,pop in to the salon at 2 Combe Road or email enquiries@tonichairandbeauty com to secure this special gift

ETHICAL GIFTS

Claire at Ebb & Flo gift boutique in the Old Bakehouse Courtyard in Portishead High Street is known for selecting her stock very carefully with the environment and kindness to animals very much in mind New for Mother?s Day Ebb & Flo introduces ethically sound relaxation and self care products by Salt & Steam which are cruelty free,vegan and zero plastics Choose from facial steam salts,facial scrub,bath salts,skin mask or bath oil

M USIC

Give your mum the gift of music - from portable speakers to surround sound systems,the unrivalled sound quality of Sonos will put a smile on any music loving mum?s face Talk to the experts at Freemans, 47 High Street to find out more

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M UM ?S THE WORD

More special presents for mum from Ebb & Flo include a ceramic pink heart mug and gorgeous mum mirror compact,but there?s so much more ? just pop in and browse

ALL THINGS SWEET

SPORT

If your mum?s a sports enthusiast,check out the wide range of gifts available in The Sports Shop at 39 High Street From kettle bells to yoga mats and running shoes to sunglasses,there?s so much to choose from there?s bound to be a wonderful gift just waiting for you.

GET IT FRAM ED

Whether it?s a favourite photo or a work of art, the picture framing service offered on the first floor at Careys in the High Street can transform your gift in to something very special

You used to be able to pick up some great confectionery for all occasions in Portishead High Street but with the demise of newsagents,choice is now more limited Fear not though, Season 's Florist has a great range of all things sweet from special packs of gummy candy and jelly sweets,to boxes of chocolates and more Call in to see the range of confectionery that sits alongside all your floral requirements

FOOTWEAR

Slippers make great gifts for mum and nan and you?ll find a great selection at SoleLution in Portishead High Street SoleLution also offers gift cards which,with the new spring and summer stock just arriving,will make an ideal present this Mother?s Day

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THE W INDMILL

A look at the past and present of one of Portishead?s favourite pub restaurants

The Windmill has produced more than its fair share of great stories over the years

The story starts in the 1830s,when building was completed on Portishead?s windmill,one of the last windmills to be built in Somerset The round stone tower is now the only part of the original building still standing

The mill had a short life and stopped operating in the 1840s,due mainly to the introduction of a new steam-powered mill in the village The tower was then converted for residential purposes

In 1905 though,local landowners Bristol Corporation decided to develop an 18-hole golf course on the site The par 77 course incorporated the mill tower as its club house,which opened for business in 1907

During the first and second world wars,the land was required to grow food crops and during World War II, the club house was used as a headquarters for the Home Guard

After the war,the golf club closed and the vacant clubhouse building became a regional office for Lexicon Libraries Then,in 1960,it finally became a pub and has traded as one ever since Initially called the Hole in One,it became The Windmill in 2000

THEPORT

Posset Bit es

Newon the menu

With a reputation for excellent pizza,sharing platters and beers brewed on the premises The Port has added a fresh new salad to their menu. The Burrata Salad,is a soft delicate mozzarella shell with a smooth creamy inside served on a

VENGA

BOTTOMLESSBRUNCH

Back by popular demand ? the Sunday Bottomless Brunch is returning to Venga in Portishead High Street

Starting with Bank Holiday specials,the first is on Easter Sunday Prosecco,sangria and more included ? check out the Venga Portishead Facebook page for details

bed of cherry tomatoes,basil and garlic topped with a drizzled house dressing,pistachio chips and served with a toasted baguette. Watch out for more new dishes this spring and enjoy alfresco whenever the weather permits

SHANI CATTI SHAKES

AFTERNOON TEA

Shanicatti Shakes tea room in The Old Bakehouse Courtyard in the High Street is promising a Mother?s Day Special! Expect fresh homemade cakes and tea served in fine china with a party atmosphere for you and your mum Bookings being taken

A COUNTRY HOUSE AT WAR

Portishead Players return with new World War II dram a

Local theatre returns to Portishead this spring with A Country House At War,a new World War 2 drama from Colin Astley,writer of The Spitfire Girls.

Meadfoot,a large country house in Buckinghamshire, is taken over by the government at the start of the war to be used firstly as a hospital and then by the secret intelligence services The play covers the whole of the war from August 1939 to August 1945 through the life of the house and its household

This is a drama with sadness and humour set at this most vivid period in our history

Performances run from 25-27 April at Somerset Hall in Portishead High Street with evening shows starting at 730pm and a matinee on Saturday at 2pm Doors open 30 minutes beforehand

The box office opens on Thursday 21st of March for Portishead Players Members and Monday 25th March for non-members

Telephone 0333 666 3366 or book online via

www ticketsource co uk/portisheadplayers (a small charge is made for online and telephone bookings).

Tickets priced £12 for adults and £8 for under 18s are also available from Nortech at 10 High Street during its hours of business To keep up with the latest news follow Portishead Players on Facebook,Instagram or visit www portishead-playersorg uk

2nd March

SPRING INTO WELLBEING

A day-long free event has been organised by Portishead Town Council,Portishead Lions and the Beacon Hub to encourage residents to focus on taking care of their mental,emotional and physical health

A whole host of wellbeing activities will take place at four main venues:Somerset Hall,The Beacon Hub,Folk Hall and Portishead Library,between 10am?4pm There will be health MOTtesting,opportunities to find out more about CBT(Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and other complementary therapies,craft activities,health and fitness groups and a number of taster sessions and workshops In addition,look out for additional 'fringe' activities Refreshments will be available and some venues will also have music and prize draws

More details are available by calling 01275 847078 visiting www portishead gov uk/wellbeing or you can email wellbeing@portishead gov uk

DATESFORYOURDIARY

Eventsand activitieshappening inour town

6th March

FOCUSGROUP

The March meeting of Wednesday Focus at Redcliffe Bay Methodist Church,Queen's Road,Portishead,takes place on Wednesday 6th March at 230pm The meeting will include an illustrated talk titled "The Channel and its Shipping"with coffee,tea and biscuits served afterwards All are welcome

7th - 9th March

SH REK

Join Portishead Young Players once upon a time,in a far away swamp for this hilarious family musical spectacular,based on the Oscar-winning smash hit film

It's a "big bright beautiful world"as everyone's favourite ogre,Shrek,leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance Part romance and part twisted fairytale,Shrek JR is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family

Performances take place at Somerset Hall in Portishead High Street with shows starting at 730pm on Thursday and Friday and shows at 1pm and 6pm on the Saturday Doors open 30 minutes before curtain up

The box office will be open from 1st February for Portishead

Players Members and from 5th February for non-members

Tickets cost £12 for adults and £8 for children (under 18)

Telephone 0333 666 3366 or book online via www ticketsource co uk/portisheadplayers (a small charge is made for online and telephone bookings) Tickets can also be purchased from Nortech Computers at 10 High Street

For further details and to keep up-to-date with the latest news follow Portishead Players on Facebook,Instagram or visit www portishead- players org uk

9th March

SPRING SHOW

Portishead and District Horticultural Society invites you to join them for the Portishead Spring Show at the Folk Hall in the High Street from 1230-4 30pm

The first event on the town?s gardening calendar,the show will present a sea of colour for visitors with hundreds of magnificent entries which,in addition to flowers,fruit and vegetables,will include photography,handicrafts,watercolours,cakes and preserves from across the community,from children to senior citizens

The show provides an ideal afternoon out for all the family,with teas, coffee and light lunches served from 1230pm Admission is £1with free admission for children ? everyone is welcome

22nd March

IT?STRAD DAD

20th March

PROBUS

Portishead Probus Club?s (formerly Probus73) March meeting will include a fascinating talk from Jenny Bowen titled Travels In Africa The group meet at Clarence House in Portishead's High Street from midday for an hour of socialising before lunch at 1pm Jenny?s talk will follow

To attend as a guest or to find out more about Portishead Probus Club contact Matt Westley on 01275 269005,or visit the club?s new website which can be found at Portishead Probus Hugofox.

Portishead?s Speakeasy Jazz Club has pulled off a coup this month,presenting Jazz fans with a show rarely seen in the intimacy of a club venue Normally performed in theatres,art centres and major festivals,- The Bateman Brothers ,?It's Trad Dad?? is sure to attract large numbers and delight its audience at Clarence House in Portishead High Street this month

Acker Bilk?s trombonist,Ian Bateman,presents a formidable seven-piece band celebrating the iconic music of the Trad boom era with its new show,?It?s Trad Dad?The show features music by Acker Bilk,Kenny Ball,Terry Lightfoot,Chris Barber,Alex Welsh,Humphrey Lyttelton and more! It will bring back memories of the early 1960?s ?Trad Boom?when traditional jazz dominated the charts before The Beatles came along You will hear many of the hit tunes like Acker Bilk?s,Stranger on the Shore; Kenny Ball?s,Midnight in Moscow and Humphrey Lyttelton?s,Bad Penny Blues Great care is taken to reproduce the authentic sound of 60 years ago

All seven musicians have worked extensively with the big stars of the Trad era,and they continue to keep the style alive with their superb playing and love of the music

The band comprises:Ian Bateman on trombone; Alan Bateman trumpet/vocals; Trevor Whiting clarinet/saxes; Sean Moyses banjo/guitar; Craig Milverton piano; Tom Clarke-Hill bass and Nick Millward on drums

Organisers Kate and Fran are very proud to welcome these talented musicians to Speakeasy Jazz Club for a very special night taking a nostalgic trip down memory lane!

Doors open at 7pm for the show starting at 8pm Admission is £20 and no membership is required For advanced ticket sales,which is highly recommended for this show,phone Kate on 01275 848391or email katespeakeasy@hotmail co uk

23rd March

SWIMATHON

Portishead Rotary Club?s annual swimathon takes place throughout the day at Parish Wharf Leisure Centre starting at 11am

The event this year has been named the Mollie Young Memorial Swimathon,in honour of a much loved Rotarian who sadly died in 2023,after many years as chief organiser of the event.

The big swim will see swimmers aged from three-years-old to 80 years + taking part,helping to raise raising money,by way of sponsorship,for many good causes Over the years the event has raised more than £200,000

This year the Rotary charities that will be supported include Jessie May Children?s Hospice at Home Charity and Motor Neurone Disease Association ( MND) Local schools, groups and clubs that take part will also receive funds.

The event regularly attracts more than 600 swimmers with entrants swimming in relay throughout the day in teams of six,swimming for at least 35 minutes at their own pace

To support the event in any way from watching and cheering on the participants to lane counting or sponsorship,contact the club via the website www portisheadrotaryclub org uk

23rd March

ROSSINI PETITEMESSESOLENNELLE

Portishead Choral Society,under the direction of Jonathan Palmer and featuring Richard Lennox (piano) and Andrew Kirk (harmonium),perform Rossini?s ?Petite Messe Solennelle?at Portishead Methodist Church in the High Street starting at 730pm

A team of distinguished soloists will join the choir including soprano Sophie Kirk-Harris,mezzo soprano Rebecca Chellappah,tenor Nicholas Sherwood and Robert Marson ? bass

Join them all for an evening experiencing Rossini?s last serious work

Tickets cost £1250,available from choir members,from Nortech Computers at 10 High Street or on the door

27th March

AN EVENING WITH JONATHAN MOSELEY

Portishead Floral Art Society presents an evening with national demonstrator

Jonathan Moseley A professional florist for more than 27 years,Jonathan is known as one of the leading floral designers He is guaranteed to thrill his audience with his amazing displays delivered with speed,efficiency and entertainment

This event was originally scheduled for November and tickets purchased for that date will be valid

Further tickets for the event which takes place at Somerset Hall in Portishead High Street,starting at 715pm,are available priced £20

Call Nancy on 07968348116 or Alison on 01275 845322,for tickets or more information

CONTACT US- If you have an event you would like to see promoted in our Dates For Your Diary pages please email the details to: editor enjoyportishead@gmail com

Wo r l d Bo o k Day In c o min g !

By Liv,manager at Max Minerva?s

Bookshop in Portishead High Street

March is here and it?s one of our favourite months in the whole calendar - World Book Month! The books are here,the authors are prepped and ready and soon schools will be filled with the excitement of reading! So,for all of you looking around for something to fuel children?s curiosity,here are some of our recently published favourites!

The Cl o ckwo r k Co n spir acy - Sam Sed gman

The beloved author of the Adventures of Trains series is back with a thrilling new mystery! Aspiring inventor Isaac Turner lives with his father,Chief Horologist in charge of Big Ben But when his dad disappears on the night the clocks go back,leaving only a smashed pocket watch and a mysterious card,Isaac is determined to find him Full of scientific clues,government conspiracy and threats to time itself,this adventure is the perfect read for kids aged 10+

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The Swif t s - Bet h Lin c o l n

One of our favourites from 2023 and now out in paperback,The Swifts offers fun and chaos of that Addams Family variety On the day of their birth,each Swift is brought before the Family Dictionary and given a name that dictates their future Too bad Shenanigan Swift has other ideas She could be anything - a pirate,an explorer,a detective? But when someone tries to kill Arch-Aunt Schadenfreude,it is up to Shenanigan to track down the would-be assassin,before the rest of the Swifts are picked off one by one The perfect adventure mystery,for all the troublemakers out there! 10+

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n y Bo n an za! - Jamie Smar t

The newest addition to everyone?s favourite comic - and Bunny has gone missing! Monkey and the gang must go on the hunt to find him,but they are surrounded by imposters! Can they find their faithful friend,or will they be distracted by all the Not Bunnies out there Full of colourful illustrations and the characteristic drama,Bunny Bonanza is full of fun 7+

Daisy in Space -Kes Gr ay

Daisy is a huge favourite in Portishead and in Max Minerva?s too! When Daisy?s teacher announces they will be learning all about space,the whole class is obsessed! Especially Daisy and her home is soon in the grip of space-fever But turning your room into the Milky Way is harder than it looks,even with superglue and your best friends at hand Fun,silly,and full of interested space facts,Daisy in Space is a brilliant read for children aged 6+

Remember to bring all your World Book Day (WBD) tokens into Max Minerva?s Bookshop on the High Street,to exchange for a free WBD book or £1off any other book!

ACRETERETREAT

Travel Counsellor Ella Price reveals a perfect escape on Greece?s largest island

If you?re looking to get away from it all (but still want an easy transfer) Daios Cove could be the perfect escape for you Located in a secluded cove on Greece?s largest island and inspired by the elements of water and earth,this Crete retreat brings you uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea,seamlessly blending into the natural cove and surrounding landscape

There?s easy access to a private sand beach and a heated seawater infinity pool at the resort,while the buzzy Agios Nikolaos is just a 15-minute drive away, home to great shopping and the carefully preserved Byzantine chapel of St Nicholas New Collection Suites

New for 2024,the Collection Suites ooze understated sophistication with their minimalist Mediterranean aesthetic These premium suites overlook the resort?s beautiful bay,offering a stay that effortlessly combines the indoors with the out,aiming to encourage a connection with nature

The Collection Suites boast private balconies, terraces with heated seawater swimming pools and sundecks,outdoor dining and seating areas,luxe king-size beds and stunning marble-lined bathrooms,complete with separate bathtubs for those who want to indulge in an early evening soak

Sip Crete- inspired Cocktails

A good cocktail is an art form and at Daios Cove they?re committed to their craft Picture the scene: you?ve spent the afternoon chilling out on the resort?s private sandy beach,swimming in the Aegean Sea, and you?re ready for a pre-dinner drink You make your way to the Ocean Pool Bar,greeted by a cocktail menu that?s been designed by world-leading mixologists from The Clumsies.A

couple of Crete-inspired drinks later and it?s time for dinner at the Ocean Restaurant,a celebration of all things Crete,brought to you by the culinary experts at Ducasse Conseil

Not Just For Adults

Family holidays are where memories are made At Daios Cove there are plenty of activities that have been tailored just for kids,giving them independence and you the chance to enjoy some well-deserved ?me?time

Children aged between four and 12 have their own club and there are organised activities for teens too There is also a babysitting service With an outdoor play area and games in the swimming pool,you can be safe in the knowledge that they?re enjoying their days while you?re enjoying that spa day

Whatever you are looking for in a holiday,as a Travel Counsellor I can take care of everything You will even be able to access all your travel documents,pay a deposit and make flexible payments in the myTC app

There are a whole host of destinations to explore,so get in touch with me today to discuss your next holiday

Em ail: ella price@travelcounsellors com

Tel: 07823 407620

FB Ella Price ? Travel Counsellor

Insta thetravelguruella

SLIMMING WORLD

Live the life you want,eat the food you love and still lose weight!

Yes you can?

lose weight without ever going hungry Fill up on everyday favourites like pasta,potatoes,fruit, lean meat and veggie choices,with no need to weigh or measure It?s about cutting calories without counting calories

?take control and change your mindset As experts in the psychology of weight loss,we?ll help you build healthy habits in a way that?s enjoyable ? and lasts!

supercharge your weight loss in group Research shows you?re more likely to lose weight when you join a friendly and super-supportive group

?build up active habits,at your own pace

Whether you?re already active or looking for help to get started,our physical activity support programme is tailored to you

?fit all this around you and your lifestyle

A friendly and super-supportive group is the very best place to learn how to understand yourself as a slimmer and build new skills and habits that will last you your lifetime

Come along to one of our local groups where you are assured of a warm welcome

IT'SALLABOUTYOU!

Transform your body with the Tonic KRFBody Plan

If you desire improved skin tone and texture,Tonic Hair & Beauty House has an offer this month you just won't want to miss!

The team has been so amazed with the results of the new KRFbody treatment plan,they are offering a first treatment at half price (saving £4750),because they want as many people as possible to experience it And if you're impressed with the results and decide to book a course of treatments on the day,you'll receive that half price treatment completely free of charge!

Keramos Radio Frequency (KRF) is a non-invasive treatment that uses energy waves to heat the deeper layer of the skin to help combat problem areas of the body,it?s ideal for cellulite and re-modelling bums,legs,and tummies This non-invasive,anti-ageing technology feels like a

warm massage

The heat generated by the KRF produces an increase in vascularisation and lymphatic drainage,as well as instantly stimulating the contraction of the collagen fibres for a harmonious, toned and trim body Results are visible from the first session and are accelerated with multiple sessions Nadine Johnson,who runs Tonic with her sister Simone,said:"This really is a game changer in the world of beauty,our clients can? t believe how quickly they see results."

Book your half price treatment now by calling the salon on 01275 843554 or email enquiries@tonichairandbeauty com for more details

Payment plan options are available for all KRFcourses

NUTRITIONAL TH ERAPY

Navigating the minefield of what to eat and what not to eat

With so much conflicting information out there,it is easy to become confused about healthy eating

Every week there is a different message about what we should or should not be eating Nutritional therapy helps you to navigate that minefield in a very individual way

Nutritional therapy is the use of foods,diets, supplements,functional foods,dietary counselling, assessment and support to help people reach their health goals These health goals can range from weight management to disease symptom support, optimal sports function,eating for a healthy pregnancy and more The primary focus of nutritional therapy is ?food as medicine?,evidence-based interventions of diet and dietary habits to optimise health and wellness The current swell of interest in

nutrition and the accompanying advances in research have shown that we are all unique and dietary modifications work best when tailored to the individual

Dietician Sam Twine talked to Enjoy

INTRODUCTION

Hello! I?m Sam,a registered dietician who runs clinics at Walnut Grove on Monday afternoons and evenings.

I help patients with multiple conditions ranging from desired weight loss or weight gain, diabetes control,IBS,digestive problems and allergies through to illness recovery and sports performance.

A dietician is an expert in nutrition and is the only nutrition title regulated and protected by law Technically,anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, whereas a dietician must complete an accredited course (a minimum of a four year degree) and maintain their professional knowledge throughout their career.This is checked annually by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC),so dieticians are held to account and must work to a higher standard of care This is why the only nutrition professionals used by the NHSare dieticians I am in no way suggesting nutritionists do not provide high standards of care,it?s just that they are not regulated in the same way as dieticians are.

I have experience as a dietician both with the NHS and in private healthcare and specialised in gastroenterology for a while (the digestive system and intestines) where I helped people with various problems with their stomach I have also held general practice clinics in the NHSto help patients with many of the aforementioned conditions.

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DIET

Diet is more complicated than purely choosing to eat the foods which are best for you Emotion,habits, availability,religion,social and cultural pressures and many other factors influence our diets,which in turn affect our health

Due to the amount of factors involved,nutritional therapy must be specific to an individual If you need or want to change your diet for health reasons,sport related reasons,or just to look and feel better,bear in mind changing behaviours surrounding diet takes time and trying to change too much at once can be overwhelming and prevent successful results

My philosophy in a consultation is to agree upon four achievable changes which will help a patient work toward their health goal Research suggests it takes three weeks to form a habit Therefore,after three weeks,I encourage patients to develop four more achievable changes to help them achieve their goal If the first round of change is successful,the next phase can be slightly more ambitious Compared to other therapies,such as taking medication,the results of working in this way can be slower,but are also usually more sustained It takes time to layer on new habits to reach your goals

SPORT S AND PERFORMANCE NUTRITION

In a previous career I was an elite athlete and represented my country competing as a rower Nutrition was a huge part of my training and my performance I have a wealth of knowledge about sports and performance nutrition and offer this through the Walnut Grove clinic too

H ERE TO H ELP

If you or someone you know would benefit from nutritional therapy please contact Walnut Grove I offer a commitment free 10 minute discovery call to any new client to establish how I can help I am also active on social media and have a nutrition tips blog offering free nutritional advice

www instagram com/endurancesportdietitian

www samtwinesportsdietitian co uk/sport-nutrition-tips

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A

selection of localprofessionalson hand to help you look and feelyour very best

The beauty and wellness market appears to be evolving as more and more people realise it?s not actually self indulgent to look and feel good,it?s a necessity

Looking and feeling good is about finding a balance between physical health,hair and skincare,mental well-being and self-acceptance and you don? t have to go it alone There are so many professionals on hand right on your doorstep who can? t wait to help you begin your journey to a better you

From fitness classes and personal training to nutrition advice and relaxation techniques; from skincare and new hairstyles to a range of aesthetics,whatever it takes to make you feel your very best,Portishead has plenty of experts to choose from to help you on your way.

istock/Ibnu Chaidir Gaffar

UNDERSTANDING LOSS AND BEREAVEMENT

By cognitive hypnotherapist and counseller Trina Gazzard

Loss and bereavement are emotional experiences that occur when someone or something significant is no longer present in one?s life Loss can take various forms,such as the death of a loved one,the end of a relationship,the loss of a job,or the loss of health. Bereavement specifically refers to the period of mourning and grief that follows a significant loss, during which individuals cope with the emotional, psychological and sometimes physical effects of their loss It?s a natural response to losing something or someone important and the process of grieving often involves various stages,including denial,anger, bargaining,depression and acceptance,though not everyone experiences these stages in the same way or order Grieving is a highly individualised process and it?s essential for individuals to find support and healthy coping mechanisms to navigate through their loss and eventually find a sense of healing and acceptance.

I am honoured to work as a therapist for a local Portishead charity Be More Ben which supports bereaved families,established in 2018 by Shane and Sarah Pritchard following the death of their eight-year-old son.

If you are looking for help and support regarding loss bereavement or any other issues please get in touch to see how I can help

Mobile:07872 925289

Tel:01275 316655 Email: trina gazzard@sky com www trinagazzard co uk

Making chiropractic care first choice for your healthcare needs

After graduating with a Masters Degree in 2012,Dr Jack?s focus has always been to improve and enhance the life of every person who walks through his door.Today,the family man who grew up in Portishead and aspires to be the best father, husband and chiropractic he can be,runs LIFE:ALIGNED Chiropractic right here in Portishead:a multidisciplinary healthcare clinic with the primary goal of helping people live a life they love with less pain and more energy

wellness can relate to more than just neck and back problems,which is why we offer a range of services to diagnose and manage various musculoskeletal conditions.?

Dr Jack believes in a multi-dimensional approach to health and function,not solely relying on any one method but a vast array of different techniques acquired over his years in practice No two people are the same,so neither should their care be!

The spine and nervous system has the ability to control,influence and regulate the health and function of our muscles,cells,organs and body tissues Understanding this is key in chiropractic treatment.

Dr Jack told Enjoy:?Pain,injuries and overall lack of

If aches and pains are holding you back from enjoying a life you love,LIFE:ALIGNED is currently offering free consultations to help establish the root cause of your symptoms,so you too can live a life you love with less pain and more energy! See the advert below for details on how to book!

HOME

Easte r

Hands up who's ready for some spring joy? Well,it?s all happening in March - the daffodils are in full bloom just in time for Mother?s Day,the clocks go forward at the end of the month and we're on the home run to brighter days and sunny skies but the most egg-citing thing about March is Easter making a slightly earlier appearance and I can? t wait! The

1.

Fun decorating ideas by Tracie Fry

season of hope and of course new beginnings! We have a few weeks to go so here are some ideas to brighten up your home,encourage you out of the front door and get you crafting with the kids,what better way to start spring than with a house full of bright fresh flowers and a basket of colourful eggs?

Start saving those egg shells - here's a pretty idea,next time you?re making omelettes for the family crack the egg at the top leaving you with a tiny vase for small flowers or single stems,you can decorate these and pop them into a cupcake case - a dozen of these in a cluster look fab!

Alternatively,egg shells are the perfect vessel for tea lights, in a shallow tray scatter some feathers add some pretty fairy lights,some petals and then your tea light shells - this looks lovely at night as a table centre piece

2.

Easter tree - by now the garden has begun to run wild and there are plenty of shrubs that need cutting back I would bring the cuttings indoors,pop them in a vase and decorate with ribbons and colorful eggs You can pick up faux eggs at most craft shops and the children will have hours of fun painting them

3. Tx

Bunny bunting - a flash of bunting always makes me think of summer fetes,and it?s a great way to add some fun and colour to any room Make a template and draw out as many bunnies as you need,cover these with fabric,wrapping paper or paint and don? t forget to add a cotton ball for a tail before stringing onto pretty ribbon

4.

Don't forget the CHOCOLATE! Not a great baker? Here's a great cheat -buy a sponge,a block of pink icing,a bar of milk chocolate and a bag of chocolate eggs Roll out and cover the sponge with the icing,gently melt the chocolate and drizzle over the cake and while it?s still warm empty the eggs to set into the chocolate - pressing a few onto the sides no one will ever know!

Have a lovely Easter

istock/Zoinievek

istock/lenta

An immaculately presented, spaciousfamily home located in one of Portishead'smost prestigiousaddresses The spaciousaccommodation in brief comprises?entrance hall, cloakroom, family/dining room, a brand new kitchen and a wonderful terrace to the ground floor A large 'L' shape living room occupiesthe garden level and provideslevel access out into the rear garden A spacioushallway, with an under-stairsstorage cupboard and second cloakroom can also be found on thislevel To the first floor, a family bathroom and three spaciousbedrooms?two of which benefit from Juliet balconies The large master bedroom is the crowning feature of thisfloor and benefitsfrom wonderful viewsof the Severn Estuary and hasa spacious en-suite shower room The rear garden islaid mostly to lawn and hasa large covered decked area perfect for alfresco entertaining To the front of the property, a double driveway providesparking for a couple of carsand givesaccessto the double garage

In ExcessOf 2,600 Sq. Ft - Brand New Fitted KitchenStunning ViewsAcrossEstuary - Four SpaciousBedroomsAccommodation Over Three Floors- Double Garage & Driveway - West Facing Garden

A

message from Chris Collins at CC Mortgages

CC Mortgages is on the move but we?ll still be serving the Portishead community!

I absolutely love helping people secure mortgages as they work towards their home owning goals and it gives me a great sense of achievement making this a stress-free process for my clients

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have been in touch over the past 12 months and I look forward to continuing to serve you and new clients throughout 2024 from our new location,as we move out of Portishead We will only be 30 minutes away and we will always be happy to help Portishead residents in their quest to secure a mortgage,whether that's moving,remortgaging or buying a property for the first time We are happy to offer appointments remotely via video or telephone call and so still look forward to continuing to help many Portishead clients And so? as ENJOY Portishead reaches its one year milestone,we would like to wish them all the very best moving forward and will continue to keep in touch

Remember,if you are looking for a mortgage,please give us a call to see how we can help,we?ll be pleased to hear from you

APPEAL FOR OPEN GARDENS

Anyone can have a go!

The Portishead Open Gardens weekend is the single largest source of fundraising for Portishead in Bloom (PiB),the voluntary group that keeps our town decked in floral displays all year round

Not only does this event provide many hours of enjoyment to local residents who visit many,what are usually private gardens,it also brings scores of visitors to our town

This year organisers are keen for the event to be bigger and better than ever before and are appealing for more open gardens to come forward

The good news is - anyone can have a go!

No previous experience is necessary and gardens do not need to be perfect to take part All that is required is a warm welcome,a patch of interest in the garden,be it plants,vegetables,chickens,an activity or a cup of tea And if you have a charity close to your heart that you want to support,you

could organise an activity in your garden to help raise funds

This year?s open garden weekend take place on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th June

This has been a major event on the Portishead calendar for more than 20 years,please join in this year

To find out more please email portisheadinbloom @btinternet com

NESTING INSTINCT

Sue

Sadler ? passionate about buying and selling property for you

I moved to Portishead from Bristol six years ago and haven? t looked back,I love living in this wonderful town Now,not only do I want to live here - I want to work here too!

With 30 years experience working in property - buying, selling and letting homes - I have built a reputation not only for my in depth knowledge of the industry but for my honesty,enthusiasm and energy

Wanting to continue to build on that in Portishead,I joined Nest Associates which allows me to be my own boss and do what I do best,but with the backing of a larger organisation

Nest caught my eye with the message:?Estate agency is a simple business,often over complicated by estate agents Nest doesn? t follow the crowd,we

keep it simple,taking time to get to know you,your property and understand your situation so we can create a bespoke moving strategy individually tailored to you? When I read this I couldn? t resist delving deeper and I found the agency offers a modern and friendly approach that aligns with my own values and commitment to exceptional services

I am now an associate with Nest,here to listen and act upon your individual requirements and I?ll be right with you throughout every step of your move, available when you need me I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your hopes and dreams of moving home

WORKPLACEPENSION MATCHING

Rich Powell of Powell and Associates Financial Planning looks at pension opportunities at work and explains why it?s important not to opt out

The single biggest and best piece of advice I can give to anybody who is employed is to make sure you are enrolled in your workplace pension and where possible you are making the maximum matched monthly contributions into the pension scheme

Its a legal requirement for employers to provide a workplace pension and yet up to 10%of employees opt out of their workplace pension It is free money from your employer,you will thank yourself in later life for NOTopting out

If you are a 30-year-old female,your average life expectancy is 88 and you have a 12%chance of making 100 If you are a 30-year-old male,your life expectancy is 85 and you have a 78%chance of

making 100 * Put simply,we?re living longer now than ever before

The State Pension is going up from April 6th 2024 and will provide retirees £11,500 per annum For most people,this alone is not enough in retirement to cover essential spend,yet alone the nice to do things in life

For that reason,you really should take advantage of your workplace pension

If a person saves £100pm for retirement from age 35 and retires at 65 they could expect a pot of around £70,000 at 65,whereas starting saving at 25 they might have £114,000 (Assumes 5 9%pa growth adjusted for 2%inflation )

The current minimum contribution overall is 8%of your basic salary (that is 3%from your employer,4% from you + 1%tax-relief from the Government) But find out if your employer will do additional matching What I mean is,if you put in 5%and they put in 5% what if you were allowed to put in 7%would your employer match this and put in 7%? Ask them, because this is potentially lucrative for you in the long-run

If you are one of the 10%who have opted out of your workplace pension scheme,I would encourage you to revisit this decision and to get yourself re-enrolled Just speak to your employer and they will do everything for you

*Source:ONSLife Expectancy Calculator Feb 2024

Powell & Associates Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www sjp co uk/products The 'St James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St James's Place representatives

FIRE FIGHTERSRECEIVE DONATION

FH Halliday presents cheque for £1,000

Local funeral director FH Halliday & Son has presented a cheque to Portishead fire fighters as a result of a memorial evening held in December

Generous donations from customers and a cappella group the Pill Owls,topped up with a contribution from the local funeral firm,allowed James Marsh from Halliday?s to hand over £1,000 for the Fire Fighters Charity,an organisation that supports serving and retired members of the UK's fire service during and after service

which allows us to maintain contact with our customers and allows them to share time with others who may be in similar circumstances to themselves?

James said:?Every year as the festive season approaches we hold an event with the Pill Owls singers at our High Street offices and invite members of the community to join us

"That time of year can be really difficult for people who have lost someone close,especially if they live alone and so we offer a social occasion while inviting people to hang a star on our Christmas tree in memory of a loved one It?s a very special evening

Receiving the cheque,Portishead crew manager Neil John said:"A big thank you to FH Halliday on behalf of Avon Fire and Rescue Portishead fire fighters were pleased to attend the event in December and are grateful for the donation to the charity "

Family run business,FH Halliday,has been serving the Portishead community for more than 140 years

LUSH- ART EXHIBITION

Portishead artist Stephanie Gay has joined forces with fellow artist Chi-Yien Snow from Clevedon to celebrate the wonders of the University of Bristol Botanic Garden in a three month exhibition

Stephanie specialises in painting on silk,while Chi-Yien Snow works with a variety of media including oils,acrylic and pen and ink

The pair got the idea of paying visualtribute to the Botanic Garden,which was first established in 1882 and moved location three times before settling at its present site at The Holmes in Stoke Bishop, while on a visit there together in 2022 Stephanie said:"It's beautifuland educationalwith a mission is to educate,communicate and conserve "

The exhibition - LUSH- which runs until30th April, at The Square Club in Berkeley Square,Bristol,will feature pieces produced by the artists over the past year.Stephanie?s work is fullof vibrant colour and bold shapes and is ideally suited to the botanicalsubject matter,while Chi-Yien?s work covers a surprising range from big brush strokes and bold use of colour to black and white drawings made entirely of tiny verticallines

Entry to the exhibition is free

IT MUST BE LAMBS, LAMBS, LAMBS!

TO W N TALK

Welcome to the house of lambs - or, more accurately, the farm barn at Noah?s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall, just outside Portishead.

In a joyful early celebration of spring, as the zoo and conservation charity announced the birth of newborn Dorset lambs - signalling the onset of lambing season - they caught the attention of BBC Radio 2. Staff talked to Claudia Winkleman on her Saturday morning show and she then asked her special guest, Suggs from ska/pop band Madness, to suggest names for two of the lambs. Suggs opted for Curly and Wurly, sparking an avalanche of other sweet related names from more than a thousand listeners

Noah?s Ark will be using some of the remaining suggestions Claudia shared on the show for new lambs that are born over the coming weeks, which they will continue to share on their social media.

As the lambing season continues Noah?s Ark encourages visitors to drop in and say hello to the charming new additions.

UNSUNG HERO

Elaine Higman isknown locally for alwaysgoing that extramile and helping out, whether that?sher friends, customersor local charities and good causes, she isespecially known for her repeated support over many years for the Penny Brohn cancer, health and wellbeing charity with acentre in Pill.

Last year Elaine (known to many asLaine or Lainer)wasastounded to hear from local mum Heidi Loughlin, that little research iscarried out for inflammatory breast cancer due to alack of funding

On hearing thisLaine rallied her friendsand over the past 12 monthshasbeen raising money for inflammatory breast cancer, aswell asother local good causes, to support The Inflammatory Breast Cancer Network UK charity Her fundraising included selling itemsat acar boot sale, holding a Grease night and aMammaMia event at her home and shaking atin at social get togethers

Laine hasjust donated £507 to the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Network UK charity and wantsto thank everyone who supported her in this.

Laine isEnjoy?sUnsung Hero thismonth

Would you like to nominate someone asEnjoy?s unsung hero of the month?Email your nominationsto editor enjoyportishead@gmail com

BARN DANCESUCCESS

Portishead Rotary Club?sannual barn dance wasaroaring success, raising almost £1,000 for good causes.

160 people of all agestook to the floor thanks to the encouragement of excellent caller Jill Elliot, dancing to live music by community band Highly Strung

The money raised will be split between the two charitieschosen by the club?spresident - the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and the Jessie May Trust

TALK CLUB

Men are known for not talking about things that are on their m ind and we know the im pact this can have on life, from relationships and hom e life to work, diet, sleep and exercise Talk Club is a UK m ale m ental health charity aim ed at helping m en im prove their m ental fitness and a group m eets at the Beacon Hub in Portishead High Street (alongside the Methodist Church) on Wednesdays 6 30- 8 30pm It's a friendly m eeting where Talk Club captain Steve Barnard and other local m en listen without judgem ent in a safe, confidential free place

The m en who attend are from 18 years old to 80+ and are from all walks of life They are invited to share their situation or stories without questions or advice There are m any occasions where situations and stories are recognised by the other m en in the group with nods of agreem ent, highlighting and confirm ing they are not alone Any m ale over 18 is welcom e to attend, just turn up or to find out m ore visit www talkclub org

CHILDREN?SYOGA

Aspart of the Walnut Grove Clinic?sWellbeing CIC, a seriesof yoga for children classes, run by Justine Blaber, are taking place at the Walnut Grove Studio in Paper Mill Gardenson Tuesdays4.30 -5.15pm. Neurodiverse inclusive and good for anxiety, these sessionsare subsidised with classescosting just £5 per child, payable on the day. To find out more email contact@walnutgrovewellbeingcic com

REFURB FOR CLUBHOUSE

Portishead Town Football Club has received a generous donation which has allowed the organisation to give its clubhouse a facelift.

New tables, modern chairs and new flooring has made the Bristol Road social venue a more welcoming and versatile space

Nigel Osmond, clubhouse manager, said: ?There?s definitely a new vibe to the clubhouse We are seeing more and more of our teams and their families supporting the venue after matches and inviting visiting teams in for tea after playing We need the public to realise this is a community venue that is open to all We are open all weekend, every weekend and everyone is welcome ?

A £6,000 donation was recently made to the club by John and Jenny Maycock, owners of Brackenwood Nursery in Abbots Leigh, which is now run by their daughter Claire and her husband Chris. John and Jenny are former owners of Brackenwood Garden Centre which was located on Portishead?s Nore Road and they have always been supporters of community engagement Their granddaughter currently plays football at Portishead Football Club, which prompted their support for the facility

Nigel added: ?We are extremely grateful to John and Jenny for their generous donation, it has helped brighten up the clubhouse which we hope will encourage more users. After many years operating at a loss, the clubhouse is at last holding its own financially and when it turns a profit the funds will be ploughed back in to the venue to keep improving and maintaining it ?

The function room, which holds up to 120 people and boasts a well stocked bar and stage area, complete with speakers and a music system, is available for public hire The venue has ample car parking and plenty of outside space including a walled patio, which is due for improvement this year. An onsite catering van can also be utilised For hire details email nigel osmond@hotmail co uk

Brist ol Rd, Port ishead, Brist ol BS20 6QG