Word Gets Around Magazines: West Somerset - Issue 2

Community News - Features - Reviews and more.

www.wordgetsaround.co.uk

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ISSUE 02 .1

2.

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Editor: Clive Smith clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk Design: Paul Smith paul@wordgetsaround.co.uk Address: Hestercombe House Hestercombe Gardens Cheddon Fitzpaine Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8LQ. Phone: 01984 573025 Artwork to: info@wordgetsaround.co.uk Follow us: _wordgetsaround thewordgetsaround wordgetsaround thewordgetsaround

www.wordgetsaround.co.uk Front cover: © Mark Stothard BA (Hons) in Photography, LRPS http://msp.im

Happy New Year to you! That’s another Christmas over and now we can look forward to a new decade starting. I hope you all enjoyed our first West Somerset issue.

In this issue we welcome Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens. She will be covering local developments in our community each issue in terms of crime and safety. We’re also delighted to be a partner of the Exmoor Food Fest this year.

A big thank you to our advertisers who had faith in us and helped to get it off the ground. You may think we are some big publishing house. In fact it’s just the two of us; a father and son team. Paul puts our two magazines together. His passion for all things design started when he was made editor of the school magazine at the West Somerset Community College Sixth Form, back in 1997!

Big thanks to our distribution team who did an amazing job in getting the magazine through to you. A special mention to young Tom who delivered 6000 magazines into Minehead (with the aid of his mum). It wasn’t the best weather and with the dark nights it didn’t help. Tom’s hoping to go into the army, with his fortitude I’m sure he’ll be an asset. Special thanks also to Kerry who was busy in Watchet and Williton delivering copies to your door.

We had run out of magazines, so we reprinted another 2000, so our circulation has gone up to 14,000, at no extra charge to advertisers.

Special thanks to those who sent us articles this issue including Sally Bainbridge for her historical feature.

As well as the magazines we also run a design and print business.

Paul handles most of that side, with branding, logos, websites and print material. We have also run a very successful business networking events in Taunton. In fact we celebrated our 8th Anniversary last October.

As I have lived in Minehead for the past 50 years it only seemed right to launch a magazine here. We are supposed to be living in the most socially deprived area but we do have striving businesses. If we can support them via the magazine then that keeps us happy.

We are solely funded by advertising but we donate a third of the magazine to features and community news. We are hoping to increase its size so we can give more space to more local interests.

We have just celebrated five years since we launched our Taunton edition, starting with 4000 magazines, which has now grown to 30,000.

Please enjoy the magazine and best wishes for 2020. Let’s see what our new Prime Minister has in store for us all.

Clive PS: Check out our January print deals on page 28!

To advertise please call us on 01984 573025 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk

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The Chapel of St. Peter on the Quay, Minehead.

Information compiled by Sally Bainbridge of Minehead Conservation Society.

The Old Ship Aground Hotel, formerly known as The Pier Hotel, abuts the charming chapel of St Peter-on-the-Quay, sometimes referred to as the Fishermen’s Chapel.

At the entrance to the harbour in the C17 were the dwelling house and stores of Edmond Knowles, a prosperous merchant of Quay Town, and the two inner cellars of merchant and mariner Robert Quirke, which were used to store salt and later wood and coal.

One day Robert was caught in a violent storm during which he made a vow to God that if He spared the ship Robert would dedicate both ship and its cargo to God’s service. When he eventually arrived back the cargo was sold and the battered ship broken up. In 1628, he donated a cellar near the Quay, known as Gibraltar Cellar, where prayers could be offered for those at sea.

He also used some of the money from the sale of the ship and cargo to build almshouses for the poor.

These still stand in Market House Lane in Minehead. In his 4.

will Robert stated that his inner cellars were ‘to be let for rent to him that will give the most money for them’ to provide an annual income to support the almshouses which he had built for the poor in 1630. He also put a curse on the building that would descend on the town if its upkeep was neglected. ‘for better maintenance I do give my two inner sellers at the inner ende of the keye, and cursed be the man that shall convert it to any other use than to the use of the poore.’

Gibraltar Cellar was originally thatched, and when all the other buildings around it were pulled down, it survived because of its income to the almshouses. It is this warehouse that was leased by the church in the 1890’s. To the right of the building stood the Sailor’s Home, run as a Coffee Shop in an attempt by the Lord of the Manor to keep sailors out of public houses. It proved to be unsuccessful and quickly reverted back to a store and was later demolished.

1899, suggested that the newly acquired warehouse should become a mission to seamen.

The upper floor was used as a sailors’ shelter and reading room, then in 1907 the ground floor was converted into a Sailors’ Chapel which was dedicated to St Peter in 1910.

In 1941 the upper floor was requisitioned as a dormitory.

Regular church services resumed in 1950 and in 1970 the parish bought the chapel. A new entrance was made under the external staircase. This staircase has been reversed several times.

The last time was in 2001 paid for by Grace Genge, in memory of her sister Margaret Genge, a former Matron of Minehead Hospital and Quay Street resident.

The stained glass panel of St Peter was given by the James family, of Quay Street, in memory of Edwin John and Mary Ellen James. There are plaques in the chapel that commemorate the heroism of Quay Town sailors.

The Rev. Francis Etherington, the Vicar of St Michael’s in

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.5

Shop Local in 2020

Why? Personalized Service = A small business owner will go the extra mile to make you happy. Local businesses are owned by your neighbours and friends. They care about you and are invested in your community.

Unique Products - A national chain will sell hundreds or thousands of identikit products. Local stores sell unique merchandise in smaller numbers so you will buy something truly individual.

It supports the arts - Small local businesses support creativity! Look for art on display created by local artists. These are one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

It helps the local economy - The money you spend in a local business stays within your town and community, thus improving its future.

How? Instead of purchasing items from national chains, try to purchase things from a business local to your area.

Buy a gift or a gift card at a local business in your area and give to a friend, family member, or co-worker.

This will introduce the company to someone new and allow for the “shop local” mantra to spread.

Promote their business! If you like a particular shop or independent restaurant share and like their social media accounts. Spread the word.

Give them a great review. Send them a thank you. Say why you love them and let them share your testimonial.

6.

Your 2020 Vision for 2020 Hindsight is a wonderful thing.

We often reflect on the past year and mourn chances we didn’t take or connections we didn’t make. Instead of looking longingly backwards, perhaps 2020 is a good year to develop your vision for the future so that it’s…well…20/20!

Review your goals — short and long-term

Are your everyday activities helping you to accomplish your shortterm goals? Are you working on meaningful projects? Make sure at least some of your daily activities help you to accomplish your short-term goals, and that those short-term goals can build to let you accomplish larger goals and objectives.

But don’t be a slave to your goals.

It’s okay to change directions and shift deadlines. January is a great time revaluate. Are your long-term goals from six months ago still relevant to you today?

It can be helpful to write down your goals using pen and paper, and then hang them in a place where you can see them. This acts as a visual prompt to remind you and inspire you during the day-to-day grind.

Nurture relationships

Sometimes friendships and family relationships get placed on the backburner when we’re busy. Are there If there friends and relatives in your contacts list who you haven’t spoken with lately? Use this season to catch-up, reconnect, and nurture the relationships that matter.

Request a planning meeting

next year — do you see yourself staying at the same job? If so, do you want to be considered for promotion or a transfer? Would you like to plan a big trip with your partner, or start a family?

With your boss you might mention projects you’d like to lead, qualifications you’d like to study for.

With your partner you might want to talk about joining a gym together, planning a safari, or taking up ballroom dancing.

These discussions are useful in both your work and your private life. They can help you understand points of dissatisfaction in your work or relationship and give you the clarity you need to explore a change.

Invest in yourself

There’s a difference between being comfortable and being complacent.

Try stepping out of your comfort zone and take an online course, sign up with the Open University or night classes at college. Try out a yoga class or a massage, or simply go away with a friend or a partner to a spa for a few days.

Reflect on lessons learned

January is not all about new beginnings. It’s nice to think about all you accomplished during 2019.

What did you learn? What did you achieve? A lot probably happened in the past 12 months, but life moves so fast that too often we don’t take time to reflect on all we’ve learned.

Take note of your discoveries and think about ways you can apply those lessons with intention as you move into the new year.

Articles by Anne McCarthy.

It could be with your boss, or your partner! When you think about the

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Digital Dens in West Somerset Libraries!

Minehead, Watchet and Williton Libraries are running free Digital Den Workshops to explore new technology and have fun! All ages welcome and no need to book… just come along and enjoy!

Watchet: 2.15-4.15pm Thursday 23rd January 3d Printing Pens Thursday 20 February Augmented Reality (watch your colouring come to life!) th

Minehead: 3-5pm

Williton: 10.30-12.30pm

Monday 13th January Ollie Drones

Saturday 11th January Meet Cosmo the AI Robot

Monday 27th January 3d Printing Pens

Saturday 8th February Ollie Drones

Monday 10 th February Ozmo’s Awbie (coding fun)

For more information contact us:

Monday 17th February Stop-Frame Animation

Email: FBroome@somerset.gov.uk

Or pop in to any of the libraries staff will be happy to help!

Monday 24th February Nintendo Switch

Buy With Confidence Trading Standards Approved

FIND BUSINESSES YOU CAN TRUST From plumbers or electricians to pet services or wedding DJs, when you need to find a trustworthy local business, you can find it at Buy With Confidence

Start your search here

www.somerset.gov.uk/Hangouts

www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

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.7

NEW YEAR PROMOTIONS START 6TH JANUARY

BRINGING THE BEST BRANDS TO WEST SOMERSET SINCE 2009.

Having lived in Somerset for over 35 years it has been my pleasure to transform hundreds of homes in the region. Our dedication to premium quality means the project is not over until you are completely satisfied with your dream project.

Once all your details have come together, everything is sourced and an installation date is arranged for your project to take place. And as your local expert we only use quality fitters and technicians who are local to the area.

Maybe you’ve just moved into your new home and want to set your mark on it with a stylish new kitchen fitted with modern appliances. Or perhaps it’s time to make a splash and refresh your bathroom to a luxurious standard? Does your bedroom need a facelift with tailor made, space saving, fitted wardrobes?

Give me a call and we can discuss bringing your ideas to life in 2020.

As an independent and trusted local retailer we are authorised dealers for many leading manufacturers. But with so many suppliers and a bewildering array of products on the market, it’s not easy to find exactly what you want.

Call us on:

Here’s where I come in. As your project manager I will guide you along your journey. This begins with a visit to your home, where you will be able to discuss in detail what your dream project will be.

An outing to our local studio showroom will also give you the opportunity to explore the comprehensive selection of samples and see and feel the quality of the excellent products offered.

8.

01984 624700 Come and see us: Ground Floor 1, The Courtyard, Higher Ford, Wiveliscombe, TA4 2RL. Visit us online: sales@homefrontdesign.uk.com www.homefrontdesign.uk.com

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Beds available for immediate delivery.

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.9

4 things to do for yourself on Valentine’s Day With Jo Middleton

Yep, it’s that time of the year again! No sooner have we swept the supermarket shelves clear of Ferrero Rocher and prosecco gift sets than we’re filling them up again with tat for Valentine’s day.

Even when I’ve been in relationships I’ve never been a fan of Valentine’s Day. All those pink teddy bears clutching satin hearts to their chests and overpriced special restaurant menus. It’s not my jam. Besides, if it’s a decent relationship then do you really need to have just one day where you do nice things for each other?

Isn’t that meant to be every day?

Anyway, I’m single, so no satin heart bears for me even if I wanted them.

have the makings of a top notch morning.

Go for a walk and actually look at stuff It’s called mindfulness don’t you know. I know it’s cold, and probably raining, but there’s nothing quite like getting out in the fresh air to blow away the cobwebs and give yourself a bit of time to think. Swing your arms, take lovely deep breaths of cold air and contemplate the glory that is going for a walk by yourself and being able to stop to look at things whenever you like without someone sighing impatiently at you.

Make yourself tea in bed

Hang out with a pet

I know, this sounds kind of tricky, but I think I’ve mastered it. All you need is a thermos, or one of those metal bottles that keeps water hot for hours, and Bob’s your uncle!

Tea in bed without having to share the duvet. Pop a packet of croissants under the bed and you

There’s loads of evidence that pets can help promote good mental health, and is there really any love more pure than that between a woman and her cats?

It’s a simple and unconditional kind of love, the kind where it doesn’t matter how much space

10.

Cook yourself an amazing meal Okay, so there’s a bit of effort in this one, but if you enjoy cooking generally then isn’t it a lovely excuse to have a special occasion to cook for? Imagine you’re having very important guests, like the Queen or Colin Firth or something, and put as much effort in for yourself as you would for them. (You’re worth it remember!) Set the table with your best cutlery, or eat it in front of reruns of Inspector Morse - this is your special day so you get to choose.

Jo is the owner of the longrunning and hilariously funny parenting blog, Slummy Single Mummy, She also co-hosts at Word Gets Around Networking in Taunton. Jo now boasts a new string to her bow as her debut novel, Playgroups and Prosecco, hit the bookshop shelves back in May.

Instead, why not see Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to lavish a bit of much needed TLC on yourself? We’re all still recovering from Christmas after all, and those first few weeks of January when we all thought it would be a good idea to join the gym, so perfect timing for a bit of self care.

Here are some ideas for things to do for yourself this Valentine’s Day:

they take up in the bed, you’re always happy to ball yourself up in a corner to make room.

Follow her adventures online...

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.11

Exmoor Food Fest 2020 Chef Tim Zekki

If you love food, cooked by amazing chefs, served up in beautiful settings in restaurants and pubs, then the Exmoor Food Fest should definitely be on your calendar for February 2020.

They come to learn how to live independently while gaining job qualifications at the same time.

For the sixth year running, restaurants across Exmoor and beyond will be offering special deals for 2 and 3-course-menus throughout February. It will all kick off with a luxurious launch dinner at Kentisbury Grange where head chef James Checkley will be joined in the kitchen by a number of outstanding Exmoor chefs.

All participating restaurants will be revealed on the website www.exmoorfoodfest.com in January 2020. Anyone wishing to plan their gourmet trip across Exmoor will be able to look up restaurants on a map and see what will be offered when and where.

Foxes is the UK’s only fully operating training hotel for young people with learning difficulties.

As a first in 2020, the learners from Foxes Hotel in Minehead will be joining in the fun of taking part in the Exmoor Food Fest. In addition to the ‘meal deal’ offer, the learners will also be offering specially themed events.

Foxes Hotel is a very special hotel indeed. From the kitchen to the serving of the delicious food and the cleaning of the rooms, all jobs are being done by young people aged between 16 and 24 under the guidance of their teachers.

For many of the learners it is the first time they are away from home.

12.

Foodie fans should also look out for special events. One event that is going to be quite different is the Winter Feast at Horner Farm on the Holnicote Estate on Exmoor.

It will be a rustic dinner in one of the barns, with a chance to try meat from Dexter cattle and sheep raised on the farm. This will be a unique experience where amazing food will be served at a very unusual location.

There will also be a ‘Best of Games’ dinner at The Anchor Inn in Hillfarrance - other events are going to be announced in January.

“For the sixth year running, restaurants across Exmoor and beyond will be offering special deals for 2 and 3-course-menus throughout February.”

Guinea Fowl.

On the final weekend in February (29 Feb/1 March) a Taste Exmoor Food & Drink Festival beckons: Traders and local producers will be putting up their stalls at the Porlock Village hall.

Remember to mention ‘Word Gets Around’ when you contact one of our advertisers.

“The Exmoor Food Fest celebrates the best food and our amazing chefs in our region.”

The Harbour Cafe & Gallery who will also be offering special deals throughout February at their premises at Porlock Weir - will be running a cafe over this weekend, and there will be ample opportunity to try (and take home) lots of delicious food and drink from our region.

Information about the Exmoor Food Fest is available via the website www.exmoorfoodfest. com - there is still time for restaurants and producers to sign up to this foodie event. All links are available via the website.

Wild Seabass Tartare.

Trio of Beef by Peter Mundy.

Carpaccio by Anita-Clare Field.

Porlock Oysters by Mike Griffiths.

Word Gets Around Magazines are proud to be partners of Exmoor Food Fest 2020.

All photography © Faydit Photography.

To advertise please call us on 01984 573025 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk

.13

FORGET-ME-NOTS is our

Memory loss support group which meets in the Old Hospital on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month from 2pm until 4pm.

We offer support, friendship, relaxation, therapies, regular visits from professionals and much more.

AMBLE NOT RAMBLE is our informal walking group for people with memory loss, impaired mobility or just lack of confidence.

Minehead Dementia Action Alliance was formed over four years ago with the aim of improving the lives or people with memory loss and their carers who live in the Minehead area and to raise awareness of dementia locally.

We meet at different venues on the second Wednesday morning of each month at 10.30am and we walk whatever the weather!

‘LET’S DANCE’ is our informal

Minehead Dementia Action Alliance has very close links with the Alzheimer’s Society’s

‘SINGING FOR THE BRAIN’

and ‘MINEHEAD MEMORY CAFE’ which are held at Alcombe Methodist Church Hall on alternate Thursday mornings from 10.30 am - 12 noon.

For more information about the above events please contact : Ann Snelling - 07525 495022 Emily Feldberg -01643 821756 Val Stuart - 07525 495022 MineheadDAA@gmail.com You can also follow us on Facebook - ‘Minehead Dementia Action Alliance’

dance where no partners are needed and it doesn’t matter if you can’t dance! The dances are held regularly throughout the year.

Great Senior Jokes!!

12 Ponsford Road, Minehead, TA24 5DQ. Have you considered living in a supported environment?

It might be more affordable than you think!

Ah, the modern days. I just saw a grandpa help a youngster who was staring into his phone to cross the street.

Cost of living alone per week

Cost of living at Broadlands per week

Rent

£150

From £337

Electricity & Gas

£30

Included in rent

Council Tax

£75

Included in rent

Water rates

£30

Included in rent

Home insurance

£25

Included in rent

Doctor: “So, Mr. Jones, are you happy with your new hearing aid?”

Food

£50

Included in rent

Gardener

£10

Included in rent

“Very much, doctor. I already changed my last will twice!”

Domestic help

£20

Included in rent

TOTAL

£390

From £337

Pessimist: “Things just can’t get any worse!”

Optimist: “Nah, of course they can!”

14.

For more information and a brochure call

01643 702849

info@broadlandshomes.co.uk

Remember to mention ‘Word Gets Around’ when you contact one of our advertisers.

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Mobility Scooters Wheelchairs Rise and recline chairs Electric rising beds Walking aids and sticks Cosyfeet and Sandpiper extra roomy footwear Bathing aids Bath lifts Daily living aids Servicing and repairs Hire services

Call us on 01643 709000 or visit our showroom at 8 Park Street, Minehead www.independentlivingminehead.co.uk

To advertise please call us on 01984 573025 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk

.15

How can just 3 words find any precise location in Somerset, and the world?

Describing where you are in Somerset can be tricky.

Postcodes cover large areas, many houses have names rather than numbers and, if you need help on a footpath, towpath or country road, it can be hard to give your exact location.

UK technology company what3words has a solution. It has divided the world into 3m squares and given each square a unique 3 word identifier. ///winemaker.hillside.receive for example, is the what3words address for Dunkery Beacon – the highest point in Somerset. what3words can be used via a free mobile app or the online map at www.what3words.com. The app is well worth downloading as you can use it to find your current what3words address and give it to Somerset emergency services if you ever need to call 999. With just 3 words, they can find your exact location.

Avon and Somerset Police were in fact the first emergency service to officially adopt what3words 16.

One local example is Minehead’s ‘Minehead Eye’, which can be found at ///lamplight.shrug. selling. The three words can be typed, scanned or spoken into the what3words app, and then simply tap ‘Navigate’ to get directions to the precise location using Google Maps, Waze or your favourite navigation app. and now over 70 services in the UK have followed suit – including Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue and South Western Ambulance Service.

In March 2019, what3words was used to locate a Somerset mother and daughter after their car left the road and landed on its side in a field.

And what3words is not only for emergencies. Businesses around the UK are adding their what3words address to their website contact info and business cards, helping customers, guests and suppliers find them more easily.

The what3words app is also great for meeting up with friends in places without a street address – a point in a field at Glastonbury Festival, a fishing spot along a river or a favourite park bench.

It’s used by community groups including runners, hikers and scouts to plan meet-ups and events. what3words addresses can also be entered directly into some apps that you may already use such as hiking apps ViewRanger and Pocket Earth, or horse-riding safety app Huufe.

You can even use what3words addresses for voice navigation in many Mercedes-Benz and Ford vehicles.

Remember to mention ‘Word Gets Around’ when you contact one of our advertisers.

Qualified Mindfulness & Compassion Teacher

Mindfulness and Compassion can help profoundly with your health, well-being and happiness.

Self-care for your mind, body and spirit.

Bespoke courses for individuals and small groups.

Tel: 01823 400232 Mob: 07768 447826

Email: info@teresawort.co.uk www.teresawort.co.uk

07977 005 692 ephraim@aspirefs.co.uk

www.aspirefs.co.uk

Use this QR code, or search ‘what3words’ in the App Store or Google Play Store to download the free what3words app today.

Familiarise yourself with how it works, discover the 3 words for your home or businesses, and tell friends and family so they can download it too and stay safe in an emergency.

Where would you be?

Here are 5 famous places around Somerset.

Can you find them using the what3words app?

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

///gambles.safe.afterglow ///evaded.joke.sunbeam ///employ.saga.tomato ///straws.petulant.reckoned ///president.ounce.clearing

Answers on page 31.

01643 702525 kitchens@mineheadradio.com 19-21 Friday Street, Minehead, TA24 5TH.

To advertise please call us on 01823 765045 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk

.17

Garden View Witch Hazel All reviews are marked out of 10. Anything above 5 is worth seeing, as taste is always subjective and spoilers have been avoided by concentrating on the craft, rather than simply the plot. See bit.ly/Padreviews for the latest reviews.

By Patric Maine BA (Hons) in Film studies.

Knives out 9/10

This is an instant classic, full of twists and skulduggery and a huge dollop of humour. All the usual ingredients; the mysterious death,the house, the family, the will, whodunnit, the sleuth. Deliciously revealed as the plot goes on and keep you guessing right to the very end.

The Good liar 8/10

If you like your thrillers with all the usual ingredients that keep you guessing this is the one for you. Great acting, great plot, brilliant script, twists, keeps you guessing, hustle, hustled and hustler, dirty rotten scoundrel, great location and drone shots and recreation of war torn and post war Europe. A film that keeps your interest right through to the end.

Last Christmas 10/10

16 years after the Christmas masterpiece LOVE ACTUALLY the directorial debut of Richard Curtis comes an equally exceptional film.

There are so many positives but honestly if you like ROMCOMS you’ll love this. The locations chosen were amazing and the back story of Brexit and immigration were on point with the current politics. The use of London, the integration, the beauty of us all sharing this earth together, looking after one another - people getting on regardless of class creed or colour all gave a positive feel about a film set at this time of year around family and acceptance of change.

Midway 5/10

Let’s start with the good stuff - the cgi and POV action shots were amazing. The bad stuff - the script was awful :( the main protagonist was a stereotypical American hero. It attempted to show both sides.

It gave sympathy to those who die for ones country, whether that country acts right or wrong. Don’t expect too much.

Sorry we missed you 10/10

If you watched ‘I, Daniel Blake’ and cried this film will make you too.

Welcome to Brexit Britain - this hard hitting kitchen sink drama tells the story of the reality of trying to work at the bottom of the pile while doing everything possible to support your family with the whole system stacked against you.

The mise en scène, make up, lighting and wardrobe were excellent - you cannot help but be sucked in and feel sympathy for the protagonist and his family, as they try their best against everything that’s designed to make them fail. It might make you think twice about ordering a parcel or two online and get out to the real shops and speak to real people which is a good thing.

18.

January is a great time to plant deciduous trees and at this time of year a tree with added winter interest is always a welcome sight. Enter the witch hazel. These lovely trees with their citrus-scented spidery flowers are widely sold in garden centres as container-grown plants Look for plants with a number of evenly distributed well-placed branches and avoid those showing signs of stress, damage or disease.

Ideally choose an open, sunny position in the garden. They also work well if planted next to pathways and doors where you can enjoy their gorgeous scent on wintery days. Avoid very shady sites though or the plant may become straggly Witch hazels need free-draining soil that doesn’t dry out in summer. A light soil mixed with plenty of organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost, is best. They will also grow on heavier clay soils but make sure that as well as digging in plenty of organic matter you ensure good drainage by planting on a slight mound, about 25-30cm (10in-1ft) high and 1m (3½ft) in diameter. The only soil witch hazels won’t tolerate is a shallow chalky soil.

And make sure you don’t plant them out if the ground is waterlogged.

Witch hazels grow slowly but eventually make large spreading shrubs. They aren’t fond of pruning so make sure you leave enough space around your plant for it can develop naturally. Make sure they are well-watered throughout the first couple of springs and summers as they take a long time to fully establish and lack of moisture can cause flowers to drop.

They don’t need regular feeding but applying a top dressing of a general in late winter or early spring will help young plants to grow.

By Rachael Leverton

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A M I C U S L AW.C O.U K | 016 4 3 701 8 8 8

WE ARE UNDEFEATABLE SOMERSET. Inspiring and encouraging those living with long term health conditions in Somerset, to be active and move more, in ways that work for them.

For ways to get moving with your health condition, visit www.sasp.co.uk/long-term-conditions

HERE’S SOME TOP TIPS FOR MOVING MORE WITH A HEALTH CONDITION • Keep it simple.

• Involve family and friends.

• Finish when you feel good.

• Build up activity bit by bit.

• Be kind to yourself on the not so good days.

• Make the most of the good ones too.

• Find ways to move that work for you.

Join our Facebook Group: We Are Undefeatable Somerset

• Find something you enjoy as you’re more likely to keep doing it.

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N I A R T N I RA

B

regular progr am of aining is a prove tr im e or tiv n ni ai Cog lp to maint he at th e es a tr y. activities s. Give th itive abilitie one’s cogn

Hi! I’m Petee.

My friend Charlie the Chameleon is great at hiding. He’s hidden somewhere within this magazine. See if you can spot him and email us with where he is. info@wordgetsaround.co.uk*

* One entry per person. We will select a name from the winners. Good luck!

You could win £20 in cash.

Crossword Across 1 Informal gathering (6) 4 Intolerant person (5) 8 Bloodsucking worm (5) 9 Exceptional, particular (7) 10 Funeral procession (7) 11 Lazy (4) 12 Short sleep (3) 14 Fakir, mystic (4) 15 Admire, commend (4) 18 Winner’s trophy (3) 21 ____ and hearty (4) 23 Salad vegetable (7) 25 Branched horns (7) 26 Sibling’s daughter (5) 27 Large wading bird (5) 28 Smouldering pieces of coal (6) Down 1 Join two ends (6) 2 Casual farewell (7) 3 Physically strong, fit (8) 4 Infuse, ferment (4) 5 Association, society (5) 6 Steering lever on a boat (6) 7 Pale with shock or fear (5) 13 Precious metal (8) 16 Four stringed instrument (7) 17 Sword case (6) 19 Deluxe, lavish (5) 20 Splits, cuts apart (6) 22 Subsequently (5) 24 Long period of time (4) 17 Christmas theatre show (5) 19 Atrophy (5)

Wordsearch

How many species of tree can you find in the box below?

Sudoku How to play...

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

Riddle me this There are 20 people in an empty, square room. Each person has full sight of the entire room and everyone in it without turning his head or body, or moving in any way (other than the eyes). Where can you place an apple so that all but one person can see it?

20.

1. The first ever 3D film was released in cinemas in 1922.

2. Bowler Hats were originally invented as safety hats.

3. Armadillos have shells so hard they can deflect a bullet.

4. The Eiffel Tower “grows” in the summer.

5. In Switzerland it is illegal to own just one guinea pig.

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.21

The Last Word-Book Review With John Fish

Breaking and Mending: A junior doctor’s stories of compassion and burnout.

By Joanna Canno Published by Profile Books (Wellcome Collection) (Released: 26th September 2019) 176 Pages HB £12.99

Before Joanna Cannon became a bestselling writer, she worked as a hospital doctor then moved into specialising in psychiatry.

Now a bestselling writer Joanna Cannon now moves into nonfiction with Breaking & Mending.

This is Joanna’s own life as she begins medical school and Joanna lays bare her heart and soul as she goes through medical training. Anyone who chooses to train as a doctor is a rather special person and it is no wonder that I have come to regard Joanna Cannon as someone who has a big heart. This though is not all about the doctors on the wards but also about the patients. Some of the stories she shares are raw and intimate.

There are so many stories from the wards contained in this rather special memoir.

From the heart come the stories these people that Joanna Cannon as a junior doctor treated. This is thought provoking and compassionate. Joanna’s writing has always been from the heart and through these pages you will meet the junior doctor not the novelist we have come to know and love. Though at times this is upsetting it is also uplifting. What Dr Cannon also tells us is how the NHS is struggling and how we all need to take care of our precious NHS. When we need the help of doctors we head to hospital to be treated by the doctors, but at the same time we need to care better for the same doctors in the NHS that are treating us.

Nothing Important Happened Today

By Will Carver Published by Orenda Books (Released: 14th November 2019) 276 Pages PB £8.99

The storyline of Will Carver’s latest novel is disturbing but this is one of the best thrillers of 2019. Nine people arrive on Chelsea bridge and leap to their deaths. None of them knew each other but each one was carrying a letter they received that morning and it contained the words: Nothing Important Happened Today. What made these nine strangers leap to their deaths?

What we discover is that there is a suicide cult movement called The People of Choice.

Who is behind the cult movement that is driving people to take their own lives? In a matter of hours, the cult has moved around the world and the chosen ones have each received the same letter containing just four words.

The pace of the novel is jaw dropping and the how the story moves back and forth as you meet those who are to take their own lives so you begin to connect with each of them. At times the story just makes your heart skip a beat as detectives work flat out to break the cult and find the ring leader, but is there one? This is a story of our modern world and cults that are out there.

Will Carver can take the reader on quite a journey through his novels and in Nothing Important Happened Today you get a very dark and twisty thriller and how easily a mind can be manipulated.

Read more of John’s book reviews at: www.thelastwordbookreview.wordpress.com 22.

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MART ROAD, Minehead, TA24 5DX To advertise please call us on 01984 573025 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk

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Working together for a safer and stronger community.

With Sue Mountstevens

Avon and Somerset Constabulary and I are doing to keep you and your communities safe.

Welcome to my first column for Word Gets Around. For those of you who are not familiar with my role, I’m Sue Mountstevens and I am your elected Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Avon and Somerset. My role includes being your voice in policing, being the bridge between local people and the police and ensuring the Chief Constable and his team are doing everything they can to keep you safe. My work also includes setting the police budget and helping improve the criminal justice system to support victims of crime.

As your PCC, I will continue to strengthen communities and ensure we are working together to make Avon and Somerset an even safer place to live. Only by listening to you can I be your voice in policing and it is important that local people know that they can influence how their police service works. I want to use this column as an opportunity to keep you up to date with what

With a new year comes the opportunity to reflect, take stock of the last 365 days and plan for the year ahead. I want to challenge you do try something different this year by volunteering for your local policing service. You could become an Appropriate Adult, an Independent Custody Visitor or a Special Constable to name a few volunteering roles.

Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding, the chance to try something different and an opportunity to meet new people.

To find out more, visit the PCC’s and Constabulary’s websites.

I recently spoke to PC Sam Donati about the issues that are affecting local people in West Somerset.

In recent months there has been a rise in the number of different scams targeting vulnerable people. These scams include courier fraud, email based scams, door-to-door sellers and travelling tradesmen. Fraud is an ever-evolving crime and fraudsters are finding new ways to target victims. While the types of offences change as technology advance, the devastating impact on victims does not.

If you suspect someone is after your money, take a moment to

pause and think before you share any information or respond to any text, email of phone call asking for persona details If you are unlucky enough to be the victim of fraud or a scam, please report your experience to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or speak to your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

If you wish to contact the PCC, please email pcc@avonandsomerset.pnn.police.uk, phone 01278 646188 or write to the following address: Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, Police Headquarters, Valley Road, Portishead, BS20 8JJ. 24.

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01643 703347 info@parkslane.co.uk www.parkslane.co.uk Parks Lane, Minehead, TA24 5NU. We have a wide range of furniture available, from our bedroom, dining room or lounge pieces.

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OFFER ENDS: 28/02/20

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU!

To advertise please call us on 01984 573025 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk

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The Diaries Of

Ginger

George West Somerset’s Top Cat - the word on the street.

I have to admit it’s not been a good time over the last month for me. How was I supposed to know that the tree thing they brought into the house was something special! It looked like fun to me. I mean cats and trees go together, it’s just a natural thing.

Then they hang all those shiny things on it. Well let’s face it’s more than any cat could resist.

You see a tree appear, you just want to climb up and down it. I didn’t see the wires, honestly!

Well the tree fell over whilst I was in it, somebody must have pushed it over.

So that was the first thing.

Then guess what I found? this brilliant place to explore, actually inside the house, I never knew it was there? I went upstairs to keep my head down and suddenly there is a ladder on the landing.

I have never seen it there before and it went up into a hole in the ceiling. Now this needs to

26.

clawing at the floor. Of course it was an elaborate trap to punish me for what I had done, and yes, it worked!

be explored and guess what, it led to a whole new room that I never knew existed!

I’m up like a shot! Why hadn’t anyone told me of this place before? There could be mice, rats or any number of vermin up here. I checked out every nook and cranny. Then I notice that the roof has a lining to it and I managed to pull some away to reveal a secret space between the tiles. I scrambled up there, what a good place to wait for those mice to emerge and snug too.

Curiosity see, a cats worst enemy. I could have got out on my own, just needed a bit more time.

So I served my time, took my punishment like a good tom cat can and nothing else was said, no mention of the tree and actually they looked very pleased to see me. Gave me some lumpy paper to play with, never guess what I found in there, a fluffy pink mouse to practice my ninja moves on and a packet of my favourite biscuits, happy days!

Suddenly there is a loud crash and it went totally dark, what’s going on? The only trouble was I couldn’t get out, I didn’t have the space to turn around nor could I get out backwards.

Two days I was up there! It took me hours to get out the roof

and when I did the hole and the ladder had gone too.

I couldn’t get down, total darkness. My

claws are a total

mess now after

continually

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PRINT DEALS

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Call: 01984 573025 Email: info@wordgetsaround.co.uk www.wordgetsaround.co.uk 28.

Terms & Conditions apply. 3 working day turnaround on all items from approval. Offer end 31/01/2020.

Full payment taken before we go to print. Sorry, we no longer accept payment in dog biscuits.

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Emergency & Useful numbers Emergency Services 999 Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard Unable to speak?

Dial 999 and 55 when prompted Non-Emergency Police number Non-Emergency medical call Emergency number world wide Gas emergencies Electric power cut helpline Wessex Water emergency Environmental Agency Flood or pollution Samaritans Childline Taunton & West Somerset Council

101 111 112 0800 111 999 105 0345 600 4600 0800 80 70 60 116 123 0800 1111 0300 304 8000

Pharmacies Alcombe Tesco Minehead Boots Minehead Lloyds Pharmacy Irnham Lodge Porlock Pharmacy Quantock Pharmacy Watchet Dulverton Pharmacy

01643 703478 0117 2913890 01643 702004 01643 702007 01643 862455 01984 631343 01398 323359

Local Surgeries Williton Watchet Minehead Medical Centre Dunster & Porlock Surgeries

01984 632701 01984 634365 01643 703441 01643 821244

Somerset West & Taunton Council Minehead Town Council First Bus Somerset Berry’s Coaches Trainline Booking

0300 304 8000 01643 707213 0345 646 0707 01823 331356 0871 244 1545

Health Services & Organisations Barnfield, Minehead Beacon Centre, Taunton Chiropractor (Sally White)

01643 701 755 01823 344 240 01984 640 625

Community District Nurses (Williton Hosp) Dental Helpline Midwives Fern Ward-Out of Hours Physio (Bridgwater Booking Office) Somerset Direct (Adult Social Care) Somerset Drug & Alcohol Service (SDAS) Somerset PCT Pals National

0300 124 5607 0300 127 691 01823 342 571 01278 436 733 0300 123 2224 0300 303 8788 0800 085 1067

Hospitals Minehead Musgrove Park Somerset Nuffield Williton Community

Schools/ Colleges

West Somerset College Danesfield C of E School Minehead Middle School Minehead First School

St Michaels First School Knights Templer First School St. Peters C of E First School Old Cleeve First School Dunster First School

Timberscombe First School

Other Numbers

West Somerset Radio West Somerset Free Press Minehead Information Centre Minehead Town Council Offices Watchet Town Council Williton Parish Council Minehead Advice Centre Regal Theatre Townsend House Trust Carhampton Rec & Youth Club Old Cleeve Community Hall Tithe Barn Dunster Porlock Village Hall

01643 701701 01823 333 444 0800 015 5020 01984 635 600 01643 706061 01984 632581 01643 704191 01643 704191 01643 702759 01984 634385 01984 632480 01984 640232 01643 821254 01643 841259 01643 652844 01984 632731 01643 702624 01643 707213 01984 633344 01984 633979 0800 8021808 01643 706430 01643 706258 07704 512896 01984 641448 01643 821658 01643 863117

Whilst every effort is made to print accurate information the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors, emissions or changes that might appear. Please contact us should you see any.

30.

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Robyn Banks Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.

12

Miles A.Head Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy.

9

Mel N.Colley Discretion is being able to raise your eyebrow instead of your voice.

11

Polly C.Holder The human brain is a wonderful thing. It starts working the moment you are born, and never stops until you stand up to speak in public.

8 Reg Oyce Instead of “the John,” I call my toilet “the Jim.” That way it sounds better when I say I go to the Jim first thing every morning.

66

Rick O’Shea Who invented the brush next to the toilet? That thing hurts!

14 Doris Shutt I don’t have an attitude; I have a personality you can’t handle.

19

OUR MAR/APR DEADLINE IS 19th FEBRUARY.

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1. Wells Cathedral.

2. Pyramid Stage (Glastonbury Festival).

3. Tarr Steps (River Barle, Exmoor NP).

4. Wellington Monument.

5. Yankee Jack’s statue (Watchet).

RIDDLE ANSWER:

Place the apple on one person’s head.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of the advert. All artwork is Our latest issues can be seen online: www.wordgetsaround.co.uk/issues.html accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted under the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair andARTWORK accurate. Word Gets Around Magazines does not endorse any advertising material included in this publication All rights reserved. Word Gets Around Magazines is registered in England 11422005.

Word Gets Around Ltd hold no liability for supplied artwork from advertisers and contributors and views or advice contained within.

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ARE YOU USING YOUR CONSERVATORY ALL YEAR ROUND? “It’s the best home improvement we have ever made.

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Subsidies are limited by area and not guaranteed. Putting off your enquiry could reduce the potential subsidy available to you 32.

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