Taunton local nov:dec 2017 issue 25

ISSUE 25: NOV - DEC 2017 Keep me for 2 months.

Business carol service - 11th December Dating - how to survive Christmas Memories of Taunton with Nick Chipchase Out and about with our Mayor of Taunton Deane Paws for thought - the diaries of Ginger George

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Welcome EDITOR: Clive Smith hello@tauntonlocal.com

Over the past month I have bumped into several people I have not seen for ages and when I enquire where they have been hiding the reply is always the same, “Well we don’t get out much these days”. Then I noticed that I keep hearing the same line from many people time and time again. Is it because we now communicate on our phones and tablets or is it an economic problem?

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Taunton Local Magazine hold no liability for supplied artwork from advertisers and contributors and views or advice contained within. So there!

Years ago, and I mean many years ago, my Mother would toddle off to the shops to buy food on a daily basis. She didn’t have a job as such, she stayed at home bringing us kids up and looking after the house. As we got older she got herself a part-time job in a local factory. It was to buy those little extras. Over time to bring up a family both parents have to work just to stay afloat and juggle time between family and work. The spare time we do have is slowly diminishing and Sundays have turned from ‘Let’s go out and do something’ to ‘Let’s just stay in a recuperate ready for Monday’s onslaught’.

I work at Dunster Castle and my role is to sell membership and often met with the same line, “We just don’t have to time”. My immediate reply to them is, “Selfemployed?”. More often than not I’m right. Most people who work for themselves do so to better their lives, have more options, but the truth is we work twice as hard and options have gone out the window. The trouble is, we have our heads down and battle our way through life and next time we look up five years have just sailed by.

On the horizon Christmas is coming, for some it’s a festive time, a time to join up with family and friends. For others it’s a time of financial hardship and worry. Maybe it should be a time to take stock of what we are doing, and where we are going, to find a better way to live and to evaluate what is really important in life. Maybe it’s just to say, “Let’s go out somewhere”, a walk down a new path of life.

I wish you all the very best over the festive season.

Clive .3

Christmas countdown I was out at the weekend at Taunton Carnival which went ahead in very wet and windy weather. Well done to all who took part and attended. It was great to see people out supporting the carnival and also as ever I was amazed by the effort that the clubs and individuals put into the event.

Carnival always leads us into winter and it really seems like this year has whizzed past and so here we are again in the run up to Christmas.

The main Christmas tree outside of the Market House has again this year been kindly been donated by Langford Lakes Christmas tree farm and Taunton Farmers Market.

The Taunton Visitor Centre team are coordinating busking and music in the town centre running up to Christmas.

Please contact them on 01823 340475 if you are interested to performing.

With the big day falling on a Monday this year a number of major retailers in Taunton will be opening late every day from Thursday 21 December to Saturday 23 December. Late night shopping will, of course, be available on all of the Thursdays running up to Christmas so why not take advantage of the free parking after six to pick up a few gifts?

Following on from the success of last year`s Christmas show “Around the World in 80 Days”, the Brewhouse Theatre is producing “A Christmas Carol”. The show runs from 9 December through to 30 December. This is the perfect way to get into the festive mood or if Pantomime is more your thing, why not head to Tacchi Morris to enjoy Jack and the Beanstalk running from Saturday 9th to Saturday 23rd December.

Overall we are working with a range of businesses to ensure that you can enjoy a traditional Christmas – with the benefit of being able to shop locally and support our retailers.

In Vivary Park we have reinstated the traditional Carol Concert around the bandstand which will be happening at 6.30pm on Monday 18th December and will be supported by the Taunton Concert Band.

The Craft market will be back again in The Parade from Wednesday 29th November with gifts from the local producers. This will be complemented by the Farmers’ Market every Thursday in the run up to Christmas – another great chance to buy local produce and support our food producers who have a great range on offer.

I will return in the New Year to updates on council projects and activities so if you do have a burning desire for any information please contact me and I will be happy to help. I will see you all in the New Year- 2018!

Orchard Centre are organising an evening of entertainment and activities on Thursday 30 November from 5pm and will be switching on their lights at 7pm this will followed by a performance of Taunton’s Got Talent winners “Absolute Pitch”.

Assistant Director of Business Development, Taunton Deane Borough and West Somerset Councils itimms@westsomerset.gov.uk 01823 217555

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DETAIL London Hotel Car Rally.

With Nick Chipchase This scene is from a postcard by Henry Montague Cooper.

Not a rare card as it appears sometimes rather over priced on Ebay. The card was used by guests at the hotel over quite a long period of time as the photo was taken on 21st July 1904. In 1914 W.F. Whittingham acquired the hotel and the address box was altered to include his name instead of E.H. Claridge.The image shows the newly formed Somerset Automobile Club with French automobilists sponsored by The De Dion Bouton Motor Co.

Henry Montague Cooper was born in Cheltenham in 1864 leaving home as a teenager . He came to Taunton and married Jane ( Jenny ) Morley, the daughter of local photographer William Morley, in 1888. William Morley retired and the young couple took over the successful photographic business specialising in studio portraits and stereo views of Taunton. Henry Cooper initially traded as H. M. Cooper but being a canny businessman soon adopted his full name as Henry Montague Cooper.

Most early cars in the UK were engined by French or German companies as Britain was a little slow in accepting the new fangled motor car. De Dion engined cars were being sold in Bridgwater by The Bridgwater Motor Company in 1901 and small car suppliers were springing up in Taunton around the same time.

Incidentally 1904 was the year that motor registration was introduced. The first Somerset number being Y1.

They lived at the studio in East Reach close to where Primark is now. The Coopers had no children of their own but brought up two “ nieces “ who everyone assumed were the children of a late brother. In fact both children were the illegitimate daughters of Cooper and one of his shop assistants Harriet Fanny Ellis. Mary and Gladys Cooper were brought up by Mr Cooper and Jenny both births being registered at Exeter giving the father’s name as “ Henry Montague “. This subterfuge worked for many years until the daughters became adults and Mary’s children were not aware of the secret until after her death aged 91 in 1988. All of this was accidentally revealed when Mary discovered the truth when applying for a passport to visit Australia after her husband’s death.

Clearly Jenny Cooper was complicit in all of this and clearly the Cooper’s had meant never to reveal details of the family scandal.

Normally the cost of the machine included free tuition and many horse carriage drivers took up driving. Apparently the hard part was stopping them shout “ whoa “! The man on the tricycle is Tom Crump, a well known Taunton character, surveyor to the Rural District Council and pioneer motor-cyclist.

The photographer Henry Montague Cooper became an early motorist himself acquiring a 3.5 h.p. Benz, a De Dion two-seater in 1903 ,soon to be upgraded to 9 h.p.

MMC ( Y 308 ) then quickly followed by a 12 h.p. Belgica ( Y 388 ) demonstrating the quick advancement in engine power. The last three motors all appear in scenes photographed by Mr Cooper around Somerset. One can see him chugging into a local village followed by a horde of small children ( also included in many scenes ) then setting up the bulky camera equipment often in the middle of the road.

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Business prospered for the Coopers. They were able to buy the motor cars, employ a servant and embark on foreign holidays. Mr Cooper caught the postcard boom and opened more studios in Burnham, Chard , Wellington and Lynton. About 1929 Henry Montague Cooper retired and sold all his glass negatives to one of his staff who , unable to find a home for them, had them all destroyed.

A great loss to Somerset though many thousands of his postcards survive.

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Running & Fitness Coach How to become a better runner

By Verity Wright, www.runverity.com

Running is the one sport that people think that they don’t have to worry about technique, running is simple, isn’t it? You just put your trainers on and run - if only that was true. By improving your running technique, you can improve as a runner by running more efficiently and subsequently running faster. Poor technique can lead to you becoming tired more easily as you are not running efficiently and this can lead to injury if you have bad form.

As a running coach, I do not believe in changing a runner’s running style as we all have our own unique way of running and there is no perfect running form.

However, I do believe that by making the following small adjustments you can become a better runner.

Here are my top tips that will help you develop good running form: Posture You should run tall and in the direction that you are travelling in, your shoulders should be relaxed, back and down, try running with your shoulders bunched up to your ears, this should feel uncomfortable and unnatural.

You would soon tire if you continued to run like this over any distance. Relax your shoulders and keep your head high, look ahead of you with your jaw relaxed and your mouth open.

Arms To see how important arms are when you run try running 10m with your arms above your head or behind your back. By doing this hopefully you will see how out of control and uncoordinated you may feel and how your arms balance you. Bend your arms at the elbow, about a 90-degree angle and drive your elbow back, as though you are hammering a nail into a wall. This stops the arms crossing your body and consequently twisting your torso.

If you run with a strong arm drive your body will look for symmetry, therefore your arms should match your legs, and it’s easier to drive our arms back when you are tired than driving the knee up but by doing this, trust me, your legs will follow.

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Hands Your hands do not want to be clenched into a fist, they need to be relaxed; clenching them wastes too much energy. Imagine that you have a budgie in each hand and you are gently carrying the budgies so that they don’t get squashed, if you clench your fists you will kill the budgies; remember “Don’t kill the budgies!” In other words, keep your hands relaxed and slightly cupped.

Hips If you run with high hips this will keep you in the tall upright posture that you should be aiming for, before you run just tuck your tailbone (your bottom) in. This pushes the hips forward and enables you to run tall. Imagine that you have a bowl of water in your pelvis; the idea is that you don’t spill the water so keep your hips stable and balanced when running, try not to leak any water out of the bowl.

Foot strike There is no right way or wrong way to land on your feet, generally as long as you land underneath your center of gravity and don’t over stride this will help improve your leg turnover, so imagine that you are “popping” off the ground.

Try these adjustments next time you run, work from the head downwards and spot check how you are doing periodically. As you increase your miles and as you start to tire keep a check list in your head, where are my shoulders? What are my arms doing, keep my head up high and, above all, run relaxed.

Verity Wright is an England Athletics Qualified Coach in Running Fitness and runs a successful Athletics Coaching business in the South of England. She competes as an endurance athlete in events from 10k to 42k over country, roads, fells and mountains. If you want to know more, you can visit her website www.runverity.com

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Mayor of Taunton Deane 2017/18 Cllr Hazel Prior-Sankey

That brings me on to the incredible work of our volunteers. Here in Taunton Deane we have so many groups that simply could not exist without people who give up their time to help and support others.

It is one of the Mayor’s jobs to show support to these groups and clubs – and it is a real pleasure to visit, take part in activities and show the volunteers that their work does not go unnoticed. Thank you.

The start of November is a time to pay tribute to all those who have served in conflicts – some will have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

With The Flying Scotsman There’s rarely a blank page in the Mayoral diary – and that’s certainly the case at the moment.

Recent events have included the concert at Hestercombe in support of this year’s Mayoral charities, Stand Against Violence and Hestercombe. A number of local schools took part and the response was overwhelming. It was an evening to remember.

The Mayor’s Cadets received a pride Award from the Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens – a proud moment for all involved.

Other events have included the civic reception for South West in Bloom in Torquay, the raising of Green Flags in our award-winning open spaces – and the Flying Scotsman’s visit to the West Somerset Railway at Bishops Lydeard.

This year brings an extra and very special event as we honour John Collins who was awarded the Victoria Cross in World War One. John Collins was born in Bickenhall in Taunton Deane and served with The Royal Welch Fusiliers.

On 31 October 1917, at Wadi Saba, Beersheba, Palestine, the battalion came under heavy fire suffering many casualties. Collins worked continuously under intense fire to bring the wounded back to safety saving many lives.

He was awarded the VC for his immense courage.

As part of a national tribute to First World War VC recipients, I had the honour of unveiling a memorial stone to John Collins on October 29. It is set into the wall at West Hatch Community Hall which was once the local village school, attended by John Collins.

The special act of Remembrance preceded the annual Remembrance Day ceremonies. These offer the chance for us all to pay tribute to the men and women of our armed services.

Autumn is always a busy time in our community – and heralds the start of the wonderful Somerset carnival season.

Wellington is traditionally the first to go on parade, while Taunton Carnival follows a few weeks later. It was a wild and windy night but all involved were determined that “the show must go on.”

So much hard work goes into these events behind the scenes to provide a wonderful spectacle and support local good causes.

The winning cadets 10.

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It’s all childs play Tools of the Trade

By Sue Gascoyne, www.playtoz.co.uk

If you’ve ever been told ‘A bad workman blames his tools’ then you’ve probably felt the smarting blow and indignation of this oft chimed proverb. Whether on the giving or receiving end, like all sayings which easily trip off the tongue, truth and lies blend into one. In our blamedominated culture it’s all too easy to attribute our failings to equipment, weather, wrong leaves or heavy traffic, you get the idea, but in reality it’s rarely that simple. No-one would expect a plasterer to magic walls as smooth as a new-born’s skin with a butter knife, or a builder to create strong and straight structures without a spirit level and plumb line.

Certain trades require specialist equipment and this equipment needs to be well maintained, after all a bent tape measure, blunt chisel or plaster-clad trowel are simply not fit for purpose or conducive to taking pride in a quality job. The frustration of having to work with imperfect tools can leave us feeling bad enough without the bruising from glib sayings like these.

Like well parroted old wives’ tales, proverbs are infused with shreds of truth as we may blame a bent nail on a knot in the wood or the heavy traffic on being late, rather than accepting responsibility for rushing because of poor time management.

Dried up paintbrushes (my DIY Achilles heel) are an expensive and inconvenient reminder of the importance of having well-maintained tools. I’m thinking of a French plasterer that we hired for a restoration project. With the crumbling walls made good and lined, all that remained was to plaster and paint all fourteen rooms – yes it was a big project.

Returning to France to inspect the work we were disappointed and dismayed to discover that instead of silky smooth plaster, every wall featured arcing scratch lines, perfectly highlighted by the fresh paint, as his trowel had evidently been faulty!

Reflecting upon children’s experience of tools is an eye opener. As concerned parents, we think nothing of giving children inadequate plastic eating tools to avoid possible 12.

dangers. Who hasn’t felt frustrated and dismayed by the inability of children’s scissors to actually cut anything?!

A case of health and safety gone mad, its tools like these which set our children up to fail rather than supporting them to learn. Not trusting in their abilities, we fall into the trap of offering useless or undermining alternatives which inevitably frustrate and hamper progress. I remember receiving a call from my daughter’s nursery telling me that she’d had an accident – turned out that a curious child, never previously exposed to real scissors, had had two attempts at cutting her finger off, only to be surprised at the appearance of blood! My daughter in contrast had been proficient in using and safely carrying real scissors from an early age and so was the victim not protagonist in this episode!

With time, support and the right equipment children can succeed in their drive to mimic adults and develop skills and mastery. Yes of course we may be able to pair up the clean socks quicker, bake a lighter cake or use less soap when washing-up but all of these chores are also wonderful and potentially fun learning opportunities as children develop mastery.

Parenthood provides ample opportunities for reflection over what we could have done more, less or better - such is the cross we bear. What’s important is giving children ample opportunities to observe safe handling of tools and time and patient support in mastering these skills.

Using the right equipment is just as important for creativity. If children are given quality pens, pencils, paint brushes, paints and paper as well as instruction on essential techniques, they can wow and amaze us with the complexity and maturity of their creations. At times like this a well-chosen proverb, (aptly about equipment) seems to fit the bill. ‘Minds are like parachutes. They only function when they are open!’ a message to adults, rather than children, I dare say!

Sue Gascoyne is an author, Certified Play Therapist, Early Years trainer whose keynotes around the world help inspire and engage Early Years practitioners and parents.

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7. Pressure (6) 8. Enthusiastic (4-2) 9. Medley (4) 10. Adventure (8) 11. Bond (7) 13. Poetry Term (5) 15. Insult (5) 17. Swiss Lake (7) 20. Flyers Perks? (3,5) 21. Extra (4)

23. Antique (3-3) 24. Magic Password (6)

1. Soothe (4) 2. Hard Drug(6) 3. Core (7) 4. Mote (5) 5. Item of Male Jewellery (6) 6. Mixed Race Person (8)

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12. Top Universities (8) 14. Live (7) 16. Representation (6) 18. Entangle (6) 19. Chute (5) 22. Incline (4)

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NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 5th November A walk with Taunton Deane Ramblers A moderate walk of 5 miles beginning at 13.30 from the Post Office in Goathurst. For more information please ring Les on 01823 333537 or go to tauntonramblers.org.uk. A warm welcome awaits 15th November The Brewhouse Theatre Goodbye to Christopher Robin 11.30am & 7.30 pm

years ago while in their mid to late teens.

They borrow heavily from early folk influences, not least in their hypnotic three-part harmonies. But Turning Tides,their extraordinary debut album, delves deeply in to other genres, featuring both electric and acoustic instruments and it boasts inventive electronics and spectral atmospherics.

25th November The Brewhouse Theatre Michael Portillo Life: A game of two halves Michael speaks frankly, openly and very candidly about his most colourful life, in, and now out of, politics, followed by a lively question and answer session.

18th November United Reform Church Paul St. Taunton Afternoon concert 3.00 pm Soprano- Janet MacDonald, Baritone – Iain McDonald, Clarinet – Philip Bonser, Piano – Dorothy Raven.

Music from Mozart to Gershwin

27th November Souper Lunch 12:00pm – 1:30pm

28th – 30th. November Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre Terrible is the temptation to be good.

Heathfield Community School Year 11 Drama Festival – Caucasion Chalk Circle Blood runs through the streets and the Governor’s severed head is nailed to gates of the city. A young servant girl must make a choice: save her own skin or sacrifice everything to rescue an abandoned child.

A time of terror is followed by a time of peace. Order is restored and the Governor’s wife returns to reclaim the son she left behind. Now the choice is the Judge’s: who is the real mother of the forgotten child?

1st December The Ale House Taunton ‘Silverback’ Live music Great rock covers band 1st & 2nd December Dunster by Candlelight Dunster, West Somerset Park and Ride only.

In aid of St.Margarets Hospice

St Marys Church Centre, Bishops Lydeard, Church St, Bishop’s Lydeard, Taunton TA4 3AT, United Kingdom

18th November The Brewhouse Theatre WILDWOOD KIN 8.00pm A family trio – two sisters and their cousin – Wildwood Kin formed four 16.

30th November Christmas lights switch on at Orchard Shopping Centre 5-8pm Late night shopping ‘til 9pm.

2nd December Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre 5.30 - 7.30pm

Santa and panto reindeer walkabout, Childrens Rides, Fire and Laser show.

Taunton’s Got Talent Finalists. Switch on @ 6.30 – 7.00.

Join us at this uplifting annual occasion for singing some festive favourites with Mark Whitford-

Carols by moonlight

Williams and members of the South West Rock Show Chorus choirs. And don’t forget to don the tinsel to really get you in the mood for a wonderful Christmas time!

2nd -7th December Hestercombe Gardens Skating Glide about on our skating rink (it’s artificial so you won’t get chilly!) in our magical winter marquee. Decked out with disco lights and a starry sky it’s perfect for family fun.

See on-line for prices and times.

spectacular Regent Theatre pantomime Aladdin one of your three wishes.

Follow Aladdin, his hapless brother, and of course his mother Widow Twankey, on a spectacular adventure featuring a beautiful love story, flying carpets, a wish-granting genie, an evil sorcerer and a lamp packed full of spectacular family entertainment.

Brought to you by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, Aladdin features all of the ingredients of the perfect pantomime; a fabulous cast and orchestra, laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery and special effects, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses for all the family to enjoy.

This spectacular adaptation of Charles Dickens’ much-loved story, is a fresh new theatrical production with just the right amount of music to leave everyone full of Christmas spirit.

16th December Molly Malones, Taunton The Transporters Live music: Rock & Pop covers 4 piece band 16th December Kings Arms, Taunton Last Exit Live music: Modern covers 9 -11.30pm

Fly to the Box Office and book your tickets today!

4th-5th December Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre Christmas Community Show 2017 2.00PM Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre’s evening class members present two evenings of inspiring and uplifting dance, theatre and musical entertainment.

This event is always a wonderful celebration of community participation.

9th December – 7th Jan Bristol Hippodrome Aladdin: Joe Pasquale, Marti Pellow

17th December Hestercombe Gardens Folksy Theatre present ‘The Snow Queen’

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Folksy’s live music and puppetry make this story of bravery and friendship a perfect pre-Christmas treat for all the family. £13.50 adult / £8 per child (in advance)

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north pole, wreath, dancer, advent, yule log, turkey, brussels sprouts, decorations, bethlehem, carols

18.

.19

AUTO-BIOGRAPHIES Renault Koleos 2017 Review

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist.

Tweeting @carwriteups

The Renault Koleos won’t rock your world, but it’s a decent enough SUV. It looks a bit too like many other SUVs out there – most noticeably the Skoda Kodiaq, but it’s an impressive car, nonetheless. I got behind the wheel of the flagship trim level – the Signature Nav, which has a generous amount of Kit, comprising big 19-inch alloy wheels, a sat-nav, a touchscreen and leather-bound seats. The car’s infotainment system, accessed via the touchscreen is easy and self-explanatory to use, and the Renault is practical, offering cubby holes and four USB slots. What’s more, the Koleos is endowed with good quality soft-touch plastics and the hide wrapping the seats and steering wheel is top notch.

The top-of-the-tree 2.0 dCi 175 AWD X-Tronic Koleos I drove really is the bee’s-knees, in terms of out-and-out technology and cabin refinement. The layout is well thought out for driver and passengers, and room is more than respectable. The wheelbase is the same as the X-Trail’s at 2,705mm – and this equates to awesome legroom. Better still, the Koleos’ load area is 29 litres bigger than the Nissan’s – measuring 579 litres. Alas, take a tape-measure to the similar-looking Skoda Kodiaq and the Czech-made car’s boot is 630 litres. Oh well, you can’t have everything. Strangely the Gallic car brand isn’t providing the Koleos with a seven-seat option, though.

This could be a deal-breaker as Skoda’s Kodiaq does.

Renault gets away with it, however, by explaining that you can always go for the Grand Scenic if you need all those seats.

On the road, the Renault Koleos is well-behaved and easy to like. Zero to 62mph arrives in 9.5 seconds and the top speed is 125mph, so the car has plenty of ‘go’ for motorway commutes or for overtakes on lesser roads.

The Koleos has 174 horses under its ample bonnet to 20.

provide such power, and this helps tug the car along, even with five-up and a fully laden boot.

The auto ‘box isn’t bad, even though it’s a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This means the transmission shifts through a constant range of ratios.

Alas, CVTs don’t always work as seamlessly as they should, resulting in a rather jerky driving experience.

Nevertheless, I’m pleased to report Renault has stuck an advanced CVT into the Koleos that uses technology to copy a sequential ‘box. This makes the car painless to operate.

The Koleos’ ride is super comfy, with its soft suspension making you all but forget the existence of potholes. But the squidgy springs don’t wreck the handling; if anything, the French SUV comes across as predictable and steady.

The Koleos I drove had all-wheel-drive, so I also tested it off-road. Because the car has good ground clearance I could drive it over stones and hummocks without fear of ripping bits off the underneath of the Koleos.

Furthermore, the Renault grips well in mud and anything not resembling tarmac. It’s no Land Rover, but it’s a great asset to have if you live in the sticks, or you plan on lugging a tin-tent to a grassy caravan park or suchlike.

The Koleos is a car that is roomy and well-appointed.

It also flies the luxury SUV flag for Renault. This means it could attract fresh customers to the brand who are looking for an SUV with a bit of French flair.

PROS ‘N’ CONS • Comfortable √ • Refined √ • Commanding √ • Off-Road Ability √ • Insipid Looks X FAST FACTS (2.0 dCi 175 AWD X-Tronic 2017) • Max speed: 125 mph • 0-62 mph: 9.5 secs • Combined mpg: 47.9 • Engine layout: 1995cc four-cylinder diesel turbo • Max. power (PS): 174 • CO2: 156 g/km • Price: £34,200

.21

The Diaries Of

Ginger

George I was having a nap on top of the neighbour’s shed when I was approached by Charlie, a good friend of mine, who came to say that some of the other cats have been noticing some strange goings-on in the neighbourhood.

He couldn’t fill me in with all the details, only that we have had a spate of thefts – and some of the cats wondered if I’d come and have a meeting up the park.

With me being top cat around here, it’s just one of my duties, so I’d better see what’s up. I make my way up to the park and join up with the rest of the pack.

I stay there for a couple more hours until a woman comes along with her dog – and she does the same thing. This is weird. The question is: why? And what are they doing with it?

I decide it may a good thing to check out all the places I’ve recently been, in case someone has taken mine. The one up the allotment is still there – and the one in Mr Blackshaw’s garden, too – so it appears it’s only dog poo that is being collected, but that doesn’t tell me why.

It also appears that some people are putting them into bins, to be collected later by a man with a van. To be completely honest, I just cannot fathom out why, but the other cats will want an answer and – as top cat – I should know all the answers.

I call for another meeting up the park, which is well attended.

“What’s up?” I ask.

“Well, you’re going to think this is a bit strange, but we have noticed that someone – or something – is stealing all the dog poo”, says Blackie. “I don’t know if someone is taking it, but haven’t you noticed the lack of it?”

“Have you gone mad?”, I ask. “Who would want to do that, and does it matter anyhow? Mind you, now that you have mentioned it, the poo has sort of disappeared around here.”

Of course, us cats bury ours, whereas dogs do just leave it about. I suppose I’d better look into it just to put their minds at rest.

So, the next day I find a nice spot in the park, high up in the branches of a tree. I have good vision from here. It isn’t long before a chap comes along with his dog. I could not believe what happened next…

The dog does a poo on the grass and this chap puts it in a bag and then puts it in his pocket! Did I see right? Well, I’ve seen humans do some strange things, but this is weird. Is he the local poo thief?

“Right, my fellow cats. I have made a complete and thorough study of the weird happenings around here regarding the missing dog poos.”

They listen intently.

“And it appears it has been collected up, sent away and processed. Then, it has been used to make roads. You know when they put new stone chippings down and a big tanker sprays the road with this thick black stuff? That, my friends, is the dog poo”.

“Well, it doesn’t smell like dog poo”, says Charlie.

“No, my friend. Because it goes through a special process – but the dog poo makes it sticky”, I reply.

“And there is an upside to this, too – less chance of us stepping in it”.

“Well, thank you, George, for your research. I think you have done a good job”, says Charlie. And the rest all agree.

Well, I got out of that one.

“Just one thing, George”, asks Charlie. “Why don’t you see white dog poo anymore?”

Please!

22.

Taunton Christadelphians We are a friendly Bible based community who meet regularly at Winchester Street, Taunton.

We invite you to join us for a buffet meal followed by a topical talk each Sunday evening starting at 5.30pm or to our coffee morning on the first Friday of the Month 10.30-11.30.

For further details please ring 01278 431389 or check out our website www.tauntonchristadelphians.com for upcoming events.

The Christadelphian Hall, 72 Winchester Street, Taunton, TA1 1QF. Registered Charity Number: 1167346.

.23

Consumer champion JAMES WALKER “FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS” Consumer Champion – the man who helps you resolve your consumer complaints!

The joys of text …

A couple of weeks ago, my Resolver newsletter prompted one of the biggest responses we’d ever had. Was it a controversial subject? Had I mentioned something that got everyone talking? Nope. I used an emoji. Just one. But that was enough to prompt a huge response!

Opinion was divided. Many users sent us their own emojiladen messages in support. Others, however, felt that the inescapable text language was yet more evidence of dumbing down, or simply represented a step too far away from the English language.

No matter whether this is making you LOL or want to write a strongly worded letter, the way we communicate with people is incredibly important – and everyone’s opinion matters. This is particularly important if you’re trying to stand up for your rights or make a complaint.

For many people, making a complaint is a serious, formal act. Of course, many complaints involve horrible or highly distressing situations, so it’s vital that businesses are sensitive to the needs of each person who gets in touch.

But it’s hard to find a form of communicating that works for everyone But even writing someone’s name can be loaded with difficulties. A good example of this can be found in the titles we use to describe ourselves. I spoke to one woman recently who was upset that she’d been asked on a form for her partner’s name. “I don’t have a partner,” she told me. “I have a husband”. For her, it was political correctness forcing itself on a title that defined her. On the other hand, I’ve listened to both transgender women and 24.

women with deep voices about the insulting comments they’ve had about their titles from call centre staff who don’t accept their gender or fail them during security checks.

And it’s not just language and terms that cause problems.

There’s a real push by many businesses at the moment to move into new technology. Texting information, social media updates, interactive apps and much, much more to come. I love technology – but even I have to admit that this isn’t for everyone. So, it’s vital that we all continue to offer a range of ways for people to speak to us and ask for help. And nothing beats chatting to a human.

Huge numbers of the people I speak to tell me that they don’t think their language skills or legal/specialist knowledge is strong enough to beat a big business at their own game. Others tell me they don’t feel that they’re clever enough or are able to express how they feel in a way that makes sense. So, finding ways to help people express themselves in a way that makes them feel good is more important than you might think.

On our free complaint app, we ask users throughout the process how they feel by asking them to click on a range of faces showing emotions so we can get a feel for how satisfied (or not) they are with the firm and us.

There’s loads of research behind why people respond to these emotional faces that runs pretty deep, and there’s evidence they help people with autism and Asperger’s too.

Ultimately, if we want to get a complaint sorted out in a way that makes us happy, we need to tell businesses how we feel so they understand the impact. So, if you want to make a point, do it however you feel works for you - send it in a letter or tweet an *unhappy face* emoji. It doesn’t matter. If they’re listening properly, they’ll understand.

You can find out more about your rights or make a complaint using Resolver for free at www.resolver.co.uk. Or view our Twitter page @WalkerResolver @resolvercouk or go to facebook.com/resolvercouk

A Christian Message From Immanuel Gospel Outreach

Are you looking for Christian fellowship and Bible study?

If so, please call Mike on 01823 443441 and leave a message. Thank you.

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” Genesis 1:1, the Bible.

KEV’S CLEANING SERVICES A family run business EST since 1986, with a friendly team of reliable and trustworthy window cleaners.

Window cleaning inside and out We also empty, unblock and clean guttering, fascias, soffits, downpipes, conservatories and roofs. We can fix leaking guttering.

Regular and one off cleans!

(01823) 272260 | 07885 451628 www.kevscleaningservices.co.uk GUARANTEED a quality & professional service

Property Renovation & Refurbishment

For all your Building & Carpentry needs Specialising in: Carpentry Fitted kitchens Bathrooms Fitted wardrobes Wood & laminate flooring Timber decking & fencing 1 Jarmyns, Bishops Hull, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5HG.

01823 252450 07970 497486

www.ml-services.co.uk .25

Travel Cotswolds at Christmas

By Tim Saunders – www.travelwriter.biz

“Christmas is a time to relax and so I was determined that was actually going to happen this year. I booked a cosy cottage in the Cotswolds at Homeaway.co.uk and surprised my family by announcing that we were going on a festive break.

It meant that Caroline’s mum and dad, Lin and John - who really are doting grandparents – could spend some quality time with little Harriett. A couple of hours after leaving home near Southampton we arrived at the sandstone coloured Candlemas Cottage nestled in the quaint village of Bourton-on-the-Water in Gloucestershire.

The freshly painted 19th century property complete with Christmas tree and decorations made for a fantastic base during our week away. Arranged over three floors this charming cottage had many original features including exposed Cotswold stone and wood panelling as well as modern touches such as flat screen televisions. While it was persistently cold and wet outside, we snuggled up in front of the fire enjoying entertainment provided by our mischievous daughter.

Lin and John slept in the second bedroom, in the converted loft with its exposed wood beams while Caroline and I opted for the master bedroom, large enough to also fit Harriett’s travel cot. Comfy beds provided a good night’s sleep for all. We all took our turns with the chores and mucked in together but it was always difficult to get out of the cottage before midday.

However, when we did finally manage it we strolled around Bourton-on-the-Water. The Venice of the Cotswolds has five bridges under which flows the river Windrush – fast and high due to treacherous downpours.

At this time of year there’s a long tradition of a tall Christmas tree being placed in the river and when lit up at night made for a magical scene.

We were a little apprehensive about what might await us in the outlying village of Lower Slaughter. But thankfully at the end of our one-mile amble we arrived at 26.

a supremely picturesque village, nestled on the banks of the river Eye. Slaughter actually originates from ‘Slohtre’ in old English meaning muddy place. Records show that it has been inhabited for over 1,000 years. Today, it is home to The Slaughters Country Inn, an imposing and grand 17th century luxury hotel. This charming house has had many incarnations and was formally a Crammer School for Eton College, certainly some great characters have been associated with it over the years. Traditional beamed ceilings, stone mullioned windows and the magnificent fireplaces combine with contemporary styling. There is nothing better on a damp dreary day than to sup a pint in front of the roaring open fire peering out of the window at the picture postcard landscape.

John and I each sampled a pint of Hobgoblin ale, brewed in nearby Wolverhampton by Marstons. There were plenty of good quality dishes from which to choose, too.

“The minted lamb pie was full of good quality meat and really enjoyable,” said Lin. No matter that we couldn’t visit Cirencester (the capital of the Cotswolds) because much of it was badly flooded, there were many other places of interest in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We made for Cheltenham, only 20 miles or so from Bourton. “We’ve never been there,” revealed Lin and John as they appreciated the splendour of the Regency buildings, many adorned with Christmas lights.

Our time in the cottage quickly drew to a close but there was still more to see. Fortunately we were travelling in a Marquis Majestic 180 six-berth motorhome complete with everything including the kitchen. This meant that we could extend our holiday, enabling us to park up by a quiet roadside, cook a family meal, have a shower and a comfortable night’s sleep.

Tim Saunders is an author, journalist and businessman. He meets celebrities, goes on holiday and road tests cars.

.27

Successful dating How to survive Christmas

By Sophie Personne - www.sophiepersonne.com

Whilst many of us look forward to Christmas and all the festivities that normally come at this time of year, many of us also absolutely dread it. Whether single or in a relationship, it can be a very difficult time for more reasons than one. Yes, dealing with family and the stress this may bring will be a part of it but there is much more to it than meets the eye.

A lot of people will reflect on the year and what it brought them, looking at what happened - or didn’t happen. As human beings, we are often a little too hard on ourselves and this self-reflection is normally fairly negative. Whilst we may look at what we achieved, we will mainly look at what we didn’t. This is normally where all the future new year resolutions come from.

With social media taking a more and more prominent place in our lives, we also have more and more opportunities to compare our lives to other people’s. We don’t realise how much this affects us, as it’s often done on an unconscious level, but over time, it will reinforce our feeling of being inadequate or wanting something different.

You create your own reality When we compare ourselves to others or wish for what we haven’t got, we focus on the negative and what we are lacking. The attention we give to what we sodesperately want but isn’t in our life, will have an impact on how we view and feel things. So instead of looking at what you don’t have, look at what you’ve already got and what you have achieved.

Have a plan Stress and anxiety often come when we feel out of control. Creating a strategy to get what you want will have a more positive influence on you. If you are single and not meeting the right person, or if you are in a relationship and not happy, you need to understand why.

Then we can put the steps in place to rectify the problem.

Manage expectations The relationship we have with others is a direct reflection of the relationship we have with ourselves. The way to deal with other people is to sort yourself first, so before you start to manage other people’s expectations, you need to manage your own.

One of the reasons why Christmas can be a stressful time is because we feel it has ‘to be perfect’ and we must ‘get it right’. We all have different ideas of what that should be and trying to conform to what others want is not helpful.

Being true to what we would like is the way forward.

Keep it all in perspective

The Christmas period is often difficult because it represents our hopes and dreams. Remember when you were little, falling asleep on Xmas Eve, wondering if Santa would come and what presents he would bring you… As adults, we still hope for that magic and some of us will end up disappointed.

28.

Christmas is a time to spend quality time with loved ones and create happy memories. It is also an occasion where we can slow down and reflect. By being true to ourselves and what our hearts truly desire, we will have a better experience. Remember that we all have our own opinions and accept that yours may be different. If you are to Sophie Personne is a Relationships Expert and Author.

Her first book is ‘Your Other Half – The Guide to Better Relationships with Others & Yourself’ is available now.

How to market yourself effectively

By Karen Williams www.librotas.com @librotas Whether you run your own business, are an employee or a job seeker, if you market yourself well, you will achieve greater success.

Marketing is about finding your unique abilities and being able to communicate these to others effectively. You may have heard of the phrase ‘people buy people’, so take the opportunity to let people know why they should promote you, employ you or buy from you.

Here are my tips: 1. Write a list of your strengths and skills, and use these as selling points when you meet new people. What is unique about you? What sets you apart from anyone else?

2. Develop a succinct message that you can share with others that takes about 30-60 seconds to deliver.

In business, this is known as an elevator pitch - who are you and what can you do for others? Design and practice your message.

3. You make an impact every time you communicate.

Make sure that anything you put in writing, such as a letter, email or CV, is clear, concise and easy to read. And remember to include the strengths you have identified.

4. You communicate by what you wear and whether it is appropriate for the occasion. Research the dress code for important occasions and give yourself plenty of time to decide what to wear.

5. Make a great first impression. People tend to make a first impression of you within the first few minutes of meeting you. When you meet new people, use appropriate eye contact, a firm handshake, and smile!

6. Preparation is key. Whether you are going to a networking event or a job interview, prepare in advance.

Plan the journey before you leave, know who you are going to meet and plan what you are going to say.

Mulled Wine An easy mulled wine recipe for the festive season, brimming with Christmassy spice. Don’t bother with expensive wine - a cheap red will work beautifully and no one will ever know the difference!

Preparation time: less than 30 mins

Eat, Drink and be merry!

Method Pour the wine into a heavy saucepan over medium heat, and add the cinnamon, cloves, allspice, lemon rind and orange rind. Heat gently, but don’t bring to the boil. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the sugar, and once dissolved, taste to see if you’d like the wine sweeter and add more if so (take care not to burn your mouth as this will be hot!).

Ingredients for 4- 6 servings 1 bottle dry red wine 2 (5cm) cinnamon sticks 1 dessertspoon whole cloves 1 dessertspoon whole allspice 1 large piece orange rind (avoid the pith) 1 large piece lemon rind (avoid the pith) 2-4 tablespoons demerara sugar, (or to taste)

Cooking time: less than 10 mins Serves: 4- 6 adults

Keep hot on medium to low heat for 20 minutes to let the flavours infuse the wine.

Strain your mulled wine into heatproof glasses or mugs and serve at once, perhaps accompanied by mince pies or just enjoy by the fireside.

.29

EMERGENCY & USEFUL NUMBERS Emergency Services

Useful Contacts

Smell Gas you should immediately call Transco on: .................................................. 0800 111 999 Police Emergency: ....................................................... 999 Police Non Emergency: ................................................ 101 Police Station: ........................................... 0845 456 7000 Crimestoppers: ............................................ 0800 555 111 Musgrove Intensive Care: ........................... 01823 342006 Musgrove Hospital: .................................... 01823 333444 Floodline: ................................................... 0345 988 1188 Environment Agency: ................................ 08708 506 506 Musgrove Hospital: .................................... 01823 333444 NHS Helpline: ............................................................... 111 Wessex Water Emergency: ......................... 0345 6004600

Taunton Information Centre: ....................... 01823 340470 Bishops Lydeard Library: ............................. 03001232224 Taunton Library: ........................................... 03001232224 Albermerle Centre: ..................................... 01823 252945 Traveline: ................................................... 0871 200 2233 CAB Consumer Helpline: ............................. 03454040506 Fire Safety Officer: ...................................... 01823 273039 Neighbourhood Watch: ............................... 01278 644799 National Debtline: ....................................... 0808 1898300 BBC Somerset Sound: ................................. 01823 251641 Apple FM: .................................................... 01823 342591 Taunton County Court: ................................ 01823 281110 Bristol Airport Arr/Dep: .............................. 0871334 4344 Heathrow Info Desk: .................................. 0844 335 1801 Gatwick Flight Info: .................................... 0344 892 0322 Exeter Airport Flights: ................................ 01392 367 433 Berry’s Coaches: ........................................ 01823 331356 National Express Enq: ................................ 0871 781 8181

Medical Crown Medical Centre: ................................ 01823 282151 St James Medical Centre: ........................... 01823 285400 Warwick House Medical Ctre: ..................... 01823 282147 Orchard Medical Centre: ............................. 01823 285428 Blackbrook Surgery: ................................... 01823 259444 Creech Medical Centre: ............................... 01823 442357 Adfam Helpline Drug use: ........................... 0845 3000911 Somerset Care: ........................................... 01823 448150 Sheltered Housing: ..................................... 01823 356304

Council Departments Rebecca Pow MP Constituency Office: ................................... 01823 443062 Deane Helpline: ........................................... 01823 257185 Dog Warden: ............................................... 01823 356550 Environment Agency: ................................ 08708 506 506 Environmental Protection Team Noise Nuisance etc: .............................. 01823 356339 Garages – Rental: ................................. 01823 356334 Halcon Link Centre: ............................... 01823 350788 Pest Control: ......................................... 01823 356337 Report Anti-Social Behaviour: ............. 01823 35 6332 Recycling centre, Priorswood: .............. 01823 338615 Housing Benefit /Council Tax: ............... 01823 356321 Housing Rents: ........................................... 01823 356318 Government Ombudsman: ........................ 0845 602 1983 Samaritans: ................................................ 01823 288998 Somerset County Council: .......................... 0300 1232224 Victim Support, Somerset: ........................... 01460 55535

Pharmacies Co-op Eastwick Road: ................................ 01823 331564 Boots, Crown Ind. Est: ................................ 01823 337888 Boots, High Street: ..................................... 01823 276061 Well, Comeytrowe: ..................................... 01823 256056 Lloyds, Lisieux Way: ................................... 01823 324280 Boots, Coal Orchard: ................................... 01823 251683 Momsons, Deller’s Wharf: ........................... 01823 351914 Staplegrove Pharmacy: .............................. 01823 274049 Boots, French Weir Ave: .............................. 01823 284009 Bishops Lydeard Pharmacy: ....................... 01823 430201 Boots, Norton Fitzwarren: .......................... 01823 354861 Lloyds, North Petherton: ............................. 01278 662288

Village Halls West Monkton: ............................................ 01823 412068 Ruishton Village: ........................................ 01823 443506 Norton Fitzwarren: ...................................... 01823 252268 Cheddon Fitzpaine: ..................................... 01823 413925 Trull Memorial Hall: ..................................... 01823 350840 Creech St Michael: ...................................... 01823 444599 Stoke St Mary: ............................................ 07526 673554 Kingston Saint Mary: .................................. 01823 451584 Oake: ........................................................... 01823 461144

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.

Puzzle PuzzleAnswers Answers

Saturday 16 December Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg

Friday 15 December Austria, Denmark, Iceland, Portugal, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland Thursday 21 December Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed® Royal Mail Tracked 24®

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Friday 22 December Royal Mail Special Delivery Saturday Guaranteed®

Wednesday 20 December Royal Mail Tracked 48® Royal Mail 24®

Wednesday 13 December Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland Tuesday 19 December Royal Mail 48®

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Saturday 2 December Africa, Middle East

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UK Business Contract Services

UK Last Posting Dates Christmas 2017

Wednesday 20 December Royal Mail Tracked 48® Royal Mail 24®

International Standard and all International Tracking and Signature services

Wednesday 6 December Asia, Cyprus, Far East, Eastern Europe (except Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia)

UK Business Contract Services Tuesday 19 December Royal Mail 48®

Wednesday 13 December Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland

Saturday 9 December Australia, Greece, New Zealand

Thursday 7 December Caribbean, Central and South America

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Saturday 2 December Africa, Middle East

International Standard and all International Tracking and Signature services

International Last Posting Dates Christmas 2017

Last Posting dates

UK & International

UK Last Posting Dates Christmas 2017

International Last Posting Dates Christmas 2017

Thursday 14 December Canada, Finland, Sweden, USA

Friday 15 December Austria, Denmark, Iceland, Portugal, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland

Saturday 16 December Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg

December December2017 2017 Crossword Crossword

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Sudoku SudokuHARD HARD

Sudoku SudokuEASY EASY

Sudoku SudokuMEDUIM MEDUIM

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TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR JAN/FEB EDITION AND REACH 14,000 HOMES & BUSINESSES CALL...

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To arrange an appointment call us on 01823 259753

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