ISSUE 31
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NOV / DEC 2018 Hand delivered FREE to 36,000 homes. Keep me for 2 months.
Christ mas Recipe Miss Windsor’s Victorian Boiled Fruitcake!
Memories of Taunton with Nick Chipchase
Reasons to shop local Spaeda: Placing the arts at the heart of education Breaking Ground Heritage
Taunton’s Top Cat: Ginger George
Celebrity spotlight: Liza Tarbuck
Airport Transfers Event Travel Golf Trips
Wedding Cars Special Occasion Travel Corporate Travel
Arrive in style this Christmas. Individual and group travel in and from Somerset.
T 01823 740047 M 07932 428357 E hello@somersetexectravel.co.uk W somersetexectravel.co.uk .1 To advertise please call Clive on 01823 765045 or email clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk www.wordgetsaround.co.uk #wgataunton
WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY
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For more information and to book visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or call us on 01643 704996
Beauty Therapy & Massage
The Garden Room delivers a fresh approach to Beauty Therapy. We offer you a personalised service delivered by highly experienced therapists. We only use the very best products and you can enjoy a homely experience without the rush of the busy high street salon. We are proud to be different! Facials, Massage, CACI Synergy, Tanning, Lash Extensions, LVL Lash Lift, Bio Sculpture, Pregnancy Treatments, Cancer Massage; just a few of the treatments we offer. Buy any Gift Voucher over £50 online quoting reference WGAT and we will enter you into a FREE prize draw to win a £25 Christmas Gift Voucher completely FREE* That’s Christmas taken care of!
~ By appointment only ~ Get in touch today ~ Tel: 07739 848 168 Email: relax@thegardenroomtaunton.co.uk www.thegardenroomtaunton.co.uk 113 South Road, Taunton, TA1 3EA. * Prize draw to be made Monday 17th December.
We’re a Father & Son team based at Hestercombe Gardens. We help people and businesses to market themselves more effectively online, offline and face to face. We are energised by seeing our clients succeed by joining up the dots to successful marketing. As our name suggests, our business has grown through happy clients championing what we do.
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: 01823 765045 Artwork to: paul@wordgetsaround.co.uk Follow us:
Firstly let me say welcome to our new readers! Our magazine actually started in 2014, with a circulation of 4000 copies. We then expanded it to 14,000 copies and have now increased it to 36,000 copies. So, at last we can cover Taunton as a whole including villages and outlets. We have decided to split the magazine, covering three different areas of Taunton. Each magazine has 12,000 copies each. This will enable our advertisers much more choice of where they want advertise, size of the advert and for how long, to suit all budgets. All our details can be found on our new website www.wordgetsaround.co.uk. Our existing readers will know the magazine by it’s ‘Taunton Local’ name, but from now on it will be called ‘Word Gets Around – Taunton’. So! what for the future? We hope to run more features about the local community, competitions and insight into local people. We need your help in keeping us informed of what events you have forthcoming and remember, if you are a local group or charity you can advertise for free. If you know of any special people who you think should be recognised for the work they do please let us know. We have recently moved in to a new office at Hestercombe Gardens with a beautiful view. Aren’t we the lucky ones? Our aim is, and always has been, to connect businesses with their local community, in a costeffective way.
Clive PS: is it true every fourth frog is a leap frog ?
_wordgetsaround thewordgetsaround
Next booking and copy deadline: Jan/Feb issue - 15th December.
wordgetsaround thewordgetsaround www.wordgetsaround.co.uk 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 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 and 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 and Wales No. 11422005. Word Gets Around Magazines Ltd hold no liability for supplied artwork from advertisers and contributors and views or advice contained within.
To advertise please call Clive on 01823 765045 or email clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk
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Old Town Bridge and Breweries c 1890. With Nick Chipchase
The original town bridge was rebuilt in 1834 and during that time a stone bottle was found bearing this note. “This centre arch was erected at the expense of The Taunton and Bridgwater Canal Company and the first stone was laid on Thursday the 29th May in the year of our Lord 1834 “. The stone bridge had a narrow section which impeded traffic to the newer developments in North Town and around the railway station. It was rebuilt as the current structure in 1894 at a cost of £7,000 from a design by J.H. Smith the Borough Surveyor. Beyond the bridge is the chimney of The West Somerset Brewery and Aerated Water Factory. At this time the premises belonged to S.H. and F.H. Hatch. The brewery was substantially remodernised around 1884. Water for the manufacture of products came from an artesian well bored through a bed of clay 130 ft. thick.S.W. Arnold and Sons bought the brewery in 1897. By 1903 most of the buildings had been demolished and now The Brewhouse Theatre stands on the site. On the near side, right of the bridge is The Taunton Brewery. Thomas Starkey of North Petherton bought the brewery in 1881 from Alfred Tebbitt (late Davey and Tebbitt). Knight of Bridgwater joined the firm in 1887 which then traded as Starkey, Knight and Co.until 1895. In March 1895 the business of Ford and Sons of Tiverton was bought the company acquiring the name under which it became well known. Older folk may well remember Starkey, Knight and Ford’s famous trade mark- the flying horse.( Still seen on old pub buildings around Somerset. 4.
One near Merridge I recall ). It seems the flying horse trademark evolved from H. and G. Knight’s trademark of a knight on horseback. Starkey, Knight and Ford shared much of the public house trade around Taunton with Arnold and Sons of Rowbarton Brewery. In 1928 Arnold’s joined with William Hancock and Sons of Wiveliscombe trading as Arnold and Hancock Ltd. Hewett’s brewery at Norton Fitzwarren was added in 1899. The Hewett, Arnold and William Hancock brewery buildings still remain intact. Arnold and Hancock Ltd had 233 public houses at their peak in 1950 and the company remained in business until 1959. The Taunton Brewery was demolished in 1958 and the area landscaped to become Goodland’s Gardens formed in 1971 in memory of Alderman William Goodland the town’s mayor 1898-99. It is not obvious now but originally the town bridge was a bit longer ending at Bridge House at the Bridge Street end down stream.The Deller’s Cafe building was added on reclaimed land and was a popular meeting place in Taunton between the wars. Of course this building and Bridge House still survive and quite a few years ago you could still find some of the original Deller’s plaster moulding behind the more recent fittings. St. James church tower can also be seen and like the tower of St. Mary’s it is a Victorian rebuild of the original church tower.
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.5
Equity release is one of many options to fund a better later life. With local expert Andy Rowden Andy Rowden, MD of Taunton based financial advisers, The Financial Detectives talks about the growth of equity release products.
your property value (including any appreciation) when you die. There are also hybrid schemes with elements of both.’
Andy begins by talking about how modern equity release products are different from the past.
You said there were other options.
‘The principal is still the same: using some of the money tied up in your home to fund things you want to do in later life. You may remember horror stories of the past, where people inherited a significant debt as well as losing their parents’ property. That can no longer happen. All policies now come with a ‘no negative equity’ guarantee. ‘The market is fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority who also insist on additional training and certification specifically to sell equity release products.’ So why are they becoming more popular? ‘The realities of later life are changing. Few of us are lucky enough to have a final salary pension and annuity rates have diminished. Meanwhile we’re living longer and able to stay more active into later life, which means we need an income for more years. You might also find your house needs a new roof and you’d rather not blow your savings to pay for it. ‘And if you have children you’ll know how hard it is to get the deposit together for their first home. These pressures mean we have to find different ways to fund our later years, equity release is just one of the ways we can do this.’ How does equity release work? There are two basic types of product. First, there are lifetime mortgages. These are interest only loans secured against your home. Any unpaid compounded interest plus the sum advanced are recovered from your estate. Second, there is property reversion where you are paid a sum of money in return for a share of your property. The lender gets the same percentage share of
People almost always have more options than they realise. Being over 55 or retired doesn’t mean that you can’t get a normal repayment mortgage. In fact, there’s a growing market for mortgages aimed specifically at this age group. You also have more freedom over how to manage your pension fund. And, of course, you can always downsize. ‘Whatever route you take there are costs and different implications. When we talk to our customers we always start with what they want to achieve and what’s most important to them. We never simply sell a product. The consequences of these decisions are long lasting so getting advice and taking time to consider all the alternatives is essential. ‘The measures you take can also affect your estate, which is why we offer a rounded service that includes wills and estate planning. The last thing you want to leave your loved ones is a financial and legal mess to untangle.’ Any final advice? Equity release can be a good option for some people and is worth considering, but it isn’t the only one. Take some time and get some professional advice before you do anything. But, above all, don’t struggle on thinking you have no choice. The Financial Detectives are a family-run firm of financial advisers based in Taunton. We have been in business for over 20 years and have earned an excellent reputation in the area. Most of our business comes from repeat customers and referrals and we have consistent 5 Star reviews on Google.
T: 01823 210386 M: 07720570999 E: andy@tfdetectives.co.uk 6.
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.7
It’s not easy being an animal in the winter. The weather is harsh, food is scarce and even drinking water can be hard to find if it freezes. If you’re a bird, you can survive by flying to warmer places, but what to do if you don’t have the benefit of wings and a huge amount of stamina? For some of our less mobile animals, hibernating is a way of surviving those colder months. Sleeping for many months takes up a lot of energy so these animals fatten themselves up over the autumn when food is plentiful. Here are some of our best winter nappers. If you’re clearing up your garden in winter, you may come across a hibernating hedgehog hiding under logs or leaf litter. Our prickly friends will usually hibernate from October through to April but are quite happy waking up on mild days to have a quick forage. Help feed up your local hedgehogs by putting down wet cat or dog food, dry cat biscuits or even special hedgehog food which can be bought from rspb.org./shopping
(c) Zoë Helene Kindermann (Wikimedia Commons - CC BY-SA 4.0)
Hazel dormice are one of the most famous hibernators – even their name comes from the French word dormer meaning to sleep. These adorable creatures are the only British mouse to hibernate and can quite happily spend up to eight months curled up. Once in its nest, a dormouse will lower its body to just above freezing, its heart rate drops by 90%. 8.
Even during their active months in the summer, if there isn’t enough food they can go into a hibernation-like sleep (called torpor) to save energy. They really are quite dozy. We have twenty-five different types of bumblebee in the UK - many with lovely names like ‘red-tailed’. We normally see them in the spring when they’re at their busiest but late in the summer is when most of the workers die off and it’s just the queen left. She’ll feast on nectar and pollen before digging a hole deep into soft soil, where she’ll sleep until the spring. Some of our other insects have had the right idea and have taken to hibernating inside. Finding a cool spot in a shed or an outbuilding can give just the right amount of protection for a small ladybird or a peacock butterfly. But problems occur when they come indoors, and we whack on the central heating. You may find yourself with very confused and wide-awake insects! If you find any insects in your house, gently moving them to an outside building will give them a better chance of survival. Being cold-blooded certainly means that reptiles and amphibians have to sleep over the winter. Slow worms are one of our native reptiles and despite looking like snakes, they’re actually legless lizards! They spend a lot of time underground but may share their winter home (called a hibernacula) with other reptiles. Bats are another sociable species, and some hibernate together in small groups. They need cool, constant temperatures and sometimes move to underground caves. For more information visit www.rspb.org.uk/ homes. What will you see this autumn? Discover an RSPB nature reserve this autumn: rspb.org. uk/reserves
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To advertise please call Clive on 01823 765045 or email clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk
.9
Running & fitness coach Christmas is approaching By Verity Wright, www.runverity.com
Christmas is approaching, and December can be a whirlwind of parties, over indulgence, shopping and family visits that can put your running routine on the back burner and you can easily get squeezed out and become quite low down on the priority list. Time can be against you as you ensure that everyone else is ok and you think that you have no time left for you. But do you just think that you lack time or is this just an excuse as it can be the biggest barrier to getting in a run or running as much as you might like. By doing a little bit of forward planning and picking strategies that work for you. You could find that during the month of December your running might not take as much of a hit as you think.
Be realistic Cut back on your running if you need to. But don’t throw in the towel because life gets busy. Ride these periods out and fit in a run of some kind – 15 minutes, 10 minutes or try cross-training. Then resume to a normal routine when you can. When your schedule implodes, short-term changes can stop you fretting your way into not heading out of the front door. Cross train Take time off from running by varying your exercise routine when time is tight. This will help prevent your running muscles from becoming too strained and hopefully your motivation for running won’t become drained.
Getting over mental hurdles when life is busy can stop you getting out of the front door and running can then become stressful and not a stress release. You may feel rubbish if you are on a consistent conveyer belt of parties, late nights and over indulgence. This can lead to self-doubt as the time between running grows longer and longer. Self-doubt can lead to negative thinking and your confidence could take a nose dive. Here are my top tips for ensuring your month of December does not turn into a running disaster
Be a bit selfish
Plan your week
Have fun!
Sit down with your diary on a Sunday night and draw up a realistic training schedule, what can you fit in before everyone else in the family take priority.
Enjoying a run greatly increases the likelihood that you’ll want to – and will – find time to do the next one, visualise yourself running with grace and posture with a big smile on your face and remember how good it felt to get out of the house. And also have fun during this festive time, try not to be too hard on yourself and accept that sometimes life is allowed to get in the way.
Set short-term goals Too many runners think too far ahead, and I know I like to have a plan but sometimes you can’t see the wood for the trees if there is too much going on. Set a weekly goal and make it specific: “run twice a week for the next one.” Then set another, and so on. Think ahead Get your kit ready the night before. Even loosen your laces so your feet slide straight into your shoes. That way, you sit down and dress for battle quickly. No hunting around trying to find something clean to wear. 10.
By giving your run a high priority, you boost your physical and emotional health, and live up to your obligation to your family to be healthy and happy. But be a bit flexible Try not to stress about lost running time, just adapt and try something at home, download a quick 10-minute weight workout; you could use tins of soup as your weights.
Happy Christmas 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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Six Reasons to Shop Local You support local entrepreneurs Head for your local artisan market. These help foster the talents of the next generation of British designers and retailers. There is a constant turnover of new products, and sellers listen to customers’ demands. From food to fledgling clothing designers there will be something for everyone. You boost the local economy
You help to build your local community
For every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.
Bookshops, cafés and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from reading groups to knitting clubs and children’s events. If local businesses are not supported, these fun local groups tend to disappear too.
You increase the value of your home High streets populated with thriving independent businesses boost the prices of nearby homes. Discount stores and charity shops decrease home values in the area. It is more ethical When you shop at local butchers, bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. As a bonus it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging
You might get a better deal or some good advice Local independent businesses can use their discretion to reward regular custom. Butchers will give advice on cooking times, and how large a joint you might need to feed a family get-together, with some leftovers. Get to know your local traders. By Tom Hancock
To advertise please call Clive on 01823 765045 or email clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk
.11
Love a log burner Out of all the purchases I have ever made for my house, the log burner has to be the best. I was a bit hesitant at first. I thought there were advantages our gas fire had the log burner didn’t. My main concern was convenience. Those nights when you have been out in the cold and you come in and want instant heat. Then the thought of cleaning out the ash every day will be a chore. Well the truth the log burner is just as versatile. We load the burner with logs and put a couple bits of fire lighters underneath, light them, shut the door, open the vents and you will have a roaring fire in less than two minutes. No bits of paper, no kindling and no smoky room. If you burn sustainable logs only, the amount of ash you will get after burning several logs in an evening will fit in a teacup. So really it only needs cleaning once a week at best and logs like to burn on a bed of ash. There is a down side of course, you have to store the logs somewhere and also stacking them, plus you have to bring in enough to use that day. Apart from that, the joy of a real heat (and boy they kick out some heat) and just the look of real flames out way any hardship. There is something primeval about a real fire and you could always cut your own logs up. There is the initial cost of course, they range from £400 £2000. We laid out £800 for ours which came to about £1500 by the time it was installed, but did included a large chunk of slate for it to sit on. So running costs? Well you can read various savings on the internet but to give you some idea we buy a load
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and a half of logs which costs £150 which lasted me through the last winter lighting it most evenings and weekends. On top of that we bought about £80.00 of coal nuts. This helps it to burn slower. The Stove Industry Alliance (SIA) claim, a wood burning stove is 77% cheaper per kilowatt hour (kWh) to run than an electric fire, 29% cheaper than a gas fire, and around 43% and 50% cheaper than an oil burner. The burner we have is 5Kw which is more than ample for most standard sized rooms. We leave the lounge door open so the heat hits the central heating thermostat in the hallway so turns if off most of the time but the excess heat travels upstairs too. The fire can be easily controlled via air vents, so you can adjust the amount of heat required from glowing nicely to raging inferno. If you burn sustainable logs it is carbon neutral as for every tree cut down a new one is planted in its place. They come in various forms: log only burner or duel fuel (logs or coal), from traditional too ultra-modern. You can have a burner only or have radiators attached and don’t worry if you haven’t got a chimney as your installer will make you one. You will be amazed at what they can do. So check with your local supplier. If the bailiffs call it’ll be the last thing they get their hands on. I love my log burner. By Clive Smith, Editor.
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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! Eat, Drink and be merry! Preparation time: less than 30 mins Cooking time: less than 10 mins 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)
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!). 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.
To advertise please call Clive on 01823 765045 or email clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk
.13
The Diaries Of
Ginger
George Taunton’s Top Cat - the word on the street. My name is Ginger George and I reside in Galmington with my ‘providers’ as I call them. They are the Frasier family... David Frasier, his wife Suzy and two girls, Harriet and Molly, who spend most of their time screaming. Why do little girls scream all the time ? They tend to all my needs, bed, food, somewhere to scratch (back of the settee normally) and my own little door so I can pop in and out whenever I please. I’m the top cat around this neighbourhood, it’s my job to designate different areas for the rest of the feline population . Not an easy job by any means, disputes over access, doing business in someone else’s area, marking territory that isn’t yours, the list is endless. Fights, squabbles, then just when you think you have it all sorted someone else moves in to the area with a couple of new moggies and the whole thing kicks off again! Lucky for us there is the park, open to all. It’s like Noman’s-land up there! but you run the risk of kids and footballs, but it’s a super place for mice. Still, what’s the time, 1.30 pm. Time for a snooze I think, and wake up at 3pm. That Mrs Wilkins at No 14 will be back from the shops. I’ll jump up on her windowsill and
she lets me in. She buys me those special catty treats I like. She’s a pushover. A couple nudges, start purring and she’s putty in my paws. Nice lady though, I do like Mrs Wilkins. She’s on her own see, so I guess I’m the only company she has. It’s a case of ‘you scratch my back’, and I’ll scr... maybe not then. Bit of a tough job on tonight, I have to sort out Blackie from No37, black tomcat high as a kite most of the time, cat nipped right up. Spends most of the day rolling around from all accounts. I mean a bit here and there won’t hurt anybody, but someone down that way is a big supplier. Next door has a Jack Russell. He’s called Simon, who calls a dog Simon? Simple Simon I call him. Dogs are so slow and all that barking, it’s all front you know. A paw full of claws on their kisser, and they run off whimpering. One of my favourite pastimes with Simple is sitting on the fence, drives him nuts, yap yap yap yap, jumping up and down, I just watch and wind him right up. Now where shall I have my nap? The settee looks good. The sun might make an appearance and I will be right in line. The kids will be back at 4.00 pm so a good move all round, so I have time to dream about my nibbles!
Send us a picture of you with your beloved moggy and we’ll share our favourites on our facebook page. Maybe you have a Ginger George lookalike! Our favourite will WIN get some yummy cat treats. Send them here: www.facebook.com/thewordgetsaround along with your name and the name of your furry friend. You must LIKE our Facebook page to win. Entries end 20th December. Winner announced Christmas Eve. You must be in the picture with your cat. Only one picture per entry. Good luck!
14.
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The First World War: ‘Christmas Truce’ of 1914. The most famous account of events involves British and German forces; however, French and Belgium troops also took part. No-one really knows what initiated it. There were some reports that British troops heard their German counterparts singing Christmas carols and joined but there were also reports of German and British soldiers erecting signs wishing each other a ‘Merry Christmas’.
One of the most remarkable events of the First World War concerns the ‘Christmas Truce’ of 1914, in which the soldiers of the Western Front laid down their arms on Christmas Day and met in No Man’s Land, exchanging food and cigarettes, as well as playing football. The cessation of violence was entirely unofficial. There had been no prior discussion and troops acted spontaneously from goodwill, not orders.
Driven by feelings of goodwill, home-sickness and combat-weariness some men crossed the lines with their hands up, and troops from the opposing side went to meet them. Commanders either turned a blind-eye or joined in. Food and supplies were exchanged and tools and equipment were borrowed. Games of football were played and bodies trapped within No Man’s Land were buried. In many areas the truce lasted for the whole of Christmas day but in some places the peace lasted much longer and it was several weeks before the bloody conflict resumed. By Louise Addison
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Liza Tarbuck by Tim Saunders
“The time of the show is crucial” says BBC Radio 2 presenter and Liverpudlian Liza Tarbuck, who was born in the city in 1964. “What are people doing while they’re listening and what would I want to listen to in their position? I like to assemble the tracks so one somehow fits with the next and works as a continuous hour as if there were no talking in between. “It’s the norm to play between eight and ten tracks in any hour, and I try and get twelve away, but plan for fifteen.” She has had her own show on BBC Radio 2 since 2012 when she started hosting the Saturday evening slot but she has been a voice of the station since 2007. Prior to that she was a presenter on Channel 4’s Big Breakfast. She is the daughter of legendary comedian Jimmy Tarbuck. “I consider it an honour to have my own show on BBC radio,” she says. “If the music is good the rest of the show takes care of itself. An opening song should change your palate from the previous show and hint at what’s to come. If I get the opening track right, the rest just flows. “I’m allowed (my rule) to play some of my favourite tunes a few times a year, listening to them on the BBC equipment can take my breath away. It’s part of the reason I do the show. She adds: “I’m mindful of the shows that follow mine and I can lay a foundation for them to wet the listeners’ whistle… similarly I like to end on a high – it’s helpful for the following show.” Her first big break came in 1987 when she landed a starring role in the new Granada Television comedy series Watching, playing a character called Pamela opposite Emma Wray. Liza stayed with Watching for its entire seven-year run. She also appeared as Angie
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in the 1988 Falklands War drama Tumbledown, which starred Colin Firth, Paul Rhys and David Calder. In 2001, she took the title role in Linda Green, which ran for two series, ending in 2002. She has guest starred on the Ricky Gervais comedy Extras, and has appeared in The Inspector Lynley Mysteries as DI Fiona Knight. In 2004, Liza appeared in Series 6 of the long-running BBC One comedy French & Saunders, as a fictionalised version of herself, where she had the role of Producer for ‘Saunders & French Productions’. In 2005, Liza appeared as Mrs Jellyby in the BBC One serial Bleak House and in 2006 she appeared in episode six of the sitcom Saxondale. In 2007 she lent her voice to the animated Doctor Who adventure The Infinite Quest. That year she also starred in the ITV1 comedy drama Bonkers. In 2009 Liza starred as Staff Nurse Tina in her first role in a feature film, in The Be All and End All, and in 2016 she played the part of Anne Hathaway in the BBC Two comedy series Upstart Crow. “Liza has worked quite well during the terms,” reads Liza’s school report, when she was aged 9yrs 5mths. “She could, however, do better if she were not so easily distracted.” In her book ‘I An Distracted By Everything – an Annual for Grown Ups’ which Liza intends to distract the reader from what they are thinking, one of her observations is about the words ‘I can’t’. “I think ‘I can’t’ is just another way of saying ‘help me’ or ‘I’m scared’,” she says. Liza has an older sister, Cheryl and a younger brother, James. I An Distracted By Everything by Liza Tarbuck is published by Penguin. £16.99. Tim Saunders is an author, journalist and businessman. He meets celebrities, goes on holiday and road tests cars.
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Pet Health How to have a happy, healthy Christmas with your pets. Christmas is the time of year that we as vets get our most emergencies! The over indulgences that we take for granted for ourselves can be catastrophic to our companion animals. The worst offender has to be the turkey skin and gravy; too rich in fat (enhanced invariably with alcohol) for our cats and dogs, they can end up with very painful pancreatitis as their bodies cannot cope with the excesses. Although treatable it can be a very expensive experience on top of being very upsetting and traumatic. And let’s not go there with the foie gras! Turkey bones are best left for the soup and not to be given as a special treat. Splintering as they do and then being ingested can only lead to perforation of the gut. Painful, expensive, traumatic for pet and owner; get my drift? All chocolate’s pose an extreme threat to our pets well-being and can be fatal, as can be raisins, grapes, liquorice, certain nuts and xylitol (found in sugar free treats). Of course these aren’t the only things our pets will eat given half the chance. Those beautiful Christmas plants Poinsettia, Mistletoe and Holly all pose a threat to our pets if ingested; they are toxic folks and can cause irreversible damage. It doesn’t end there... Tinsel and ribbons, baubles and tree lights as beautiful as they are can cause injuries if pets are not suitably supervised. Rabbit owners will be aware that their fur buns love to chew and electric cable is fair game (though with disastrous consequences!). Do keep an eye on that adventurous kitten climbing the tree or for the inquisitive puppy eating the tinsel or chasing baubles. Christmas can have its downside as the veterinary profession can testify. With all the care in the world accidents and emergencies continue to happen so be prepared. Check your vet’s emergency cover and have the telephone number to hand, or, if you are away, have a suitable alternative close by. The number of a local taxi service is good to have also, if you are going to partake in a festive tipple or two! Being aware of the pitfalls and taking a few extra precautions, should help to prevent the unexpected Which leaves me finally to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Saving the mince pies and puds for yourselves will help to give your pets a safe and healthy festive season and you a peaceful Yuletide. Danielle Giles, Heathside Veterinary Surgery www.heathsidevets.co.uk To advertise please call Clive on 01823 765045 or email clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk
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Breaking Ground Heritage Physical and psychological injuries are common place amongst members and former members of the Armed Forces; the task we are faced with now is finding a meaningful way to reintegrate those affected by life-altering challenges and limitations back into functional and contributing members of society, not just for economic reasons but for the continued professional and psychological development of the individual. At Breaking Ground Heritage (BGH) we utilise archaeology and heritage to develop projects that encourage physical and psychological wellbeing, working with participants to build their own recovery pathways, thus empowering them to regain control of their lives and move forward. BGH also provide support to members of the service community looking to transition into a new career in the heritage sector, providing training, work experience and professional development opportunities. We also provide links into Further/Higher education for those that want a more academic alternative. 18.
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It’s been 6 years since I first picked up a trowel to excavate an Anglo-Saxon cemetery and how far things have come since then. In my former life I was a Royal Marines Commando, a job that I had wanted to do since before I can remember. I enjoyed nothing more than going in the field or deploying on operations, knowing that whatever public opinion was, I was doing my part to ensure the safety and security of other. Several incidents in Afghanistan unfortunately cut my career short after only 17 short years. During my time as a participant on the ‘Digs’ I could see the positive effects that it was having on my peers digging alongside me, it was also having a positive effect on me and I was keen to see if this could be developed further prompting the development of Breaking Ground Heritage (BGH). To date, we have facilitated the placement of several hundred veterans and serving personnel on BGH and Op Nightingale projects, both on and off the MOD estates. We have worked closely with Wessex Archaeology to ensure that all archaeology is undertaken to maintain and excel in best practice and we have developed projects with academic institutions including the Universities of Exeter, Cardiff, Dundee and Winchester. We are also working tirelessly to develop and interpret data sets that show the positive effects of these projects with Psychologists who are leaders in their fields. A common phrase by participants on projects, relaxing around the camp fire is “that’s the first time I’ve told anyone that.” A remark that on face value sounds like a positive. The worrying thing for us was that this was often said by individuals that had been undergoing therapy for a significant period of time. It’s only with the experience of
working on projects like this that you are able to pick up on these veiled warnings and look to develop strategies and mechanisms to pick up these individuals for onward referrals or signposting to other agencies that are able to help. Some of the most profound moments of my adult life have come from my experiences with BGH. To work with individuals that have been housebound for several years through social anxiety or injury and feel that they are able to overcome this to be a part of the BGH family, or witnessing participants developing coping strategies for triggers that would normally see them freeze or react with terror, pays testament to the hard work and resilience that these remarkable individuals show when confronted with adversity. This is why, I believe, so many heritage providers and academic institutions are joining the ranks to support BGH projects. To make a real difference! In spring 2019 we will start our work looking into the Second World War history of Taunton, starting with Crosskeys POW camp. It will only be a small project to begin but we hope to develop it over the coming years to look at other significant sites around Taunton from this period. For more information please visit www.breakinggroundheritage.org. uk or visit our Facebook page www. facebook.com/veteransarchaeology Richard Bennett MA, MCIfA Project Director
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I’ve lived in Taunton for just over 14 years now. In that time I’ve moved house 10 times in different areas of the town. Needless to say if there are traffic jams I’m pretty useful at using all the back street as short-cuts.
Thursday we would drive up, taking it in turns on which poor sod had to drive that night. We would park in town and the first stop was always the Tudor Tavern. I can still picture where the bar was.
As a kid I grew up in the sunny town of Minehead. It was a pleasant place to live and explore. But, when we came to Taunton it was always VERY exciting. You had BIG shops and that hussle and bustle. We had a Woolworths, WH Smiths and Boots. You had BFG giant size versions of them.
Next stop would be the Market House, full of the latest beats and drink promotions to set you up for the night. Thursday nights were always heaving in town. Is there still a student night in town these days?
I always remember the journey up the windy A358, peeking out of the window as we got closer, away from the gentle pace of West Somerset.
And then, there would be a mad rush for the free bus to ‘Night Owls’, later named ‘The Valbonne’ at Creech Castle. People would run to get the fun bus on its merry way across town.
Back in those days 40 Commando always had a soldier in their army hut, armed with a gun. We used to wave frantically at them on guard. Sometimes they would nod, or raise a hand. Once we got a full on wave back. That made our day. Visiting Taunton was like going to space, into the unknown. You had escalators! I remember my uncle told me that if my shoelace got caught I might get munched up. A bit evil looking back really. I would practice my jumps to survive another day. You were the ‘chosen ones in Taunton . You had a McDonalds AND an Argos. It would be nearing the millennium when Minehead would first hear the gossip that Ronald was thinking of coming to town to set up shop. Saying that I was always a Wimpy kid. Not in terms being weak, cowardly and unadventurous (hmm, maybe a bit), but preferred the rival of Mr Smug McSmugface. I always preferred the Wimpy ham burger and milkshakes. I even got a free Spectrum game once with my meal. It would take 38 minutes to load, then you’d play it for 12 minutes and go and load up the Soda Stream or something. Now of course it’s where Hubbox have recently settled in. Argos has always had those funky little pens and I used to love flicking through the catalogue at all the toys. I think it’s hard to replicate that sheer excitement as an adult, as you did busy circling your wish list for Mum and Dad for Christmas. Always Lego, action figures of some kind and as I grew older... it was always about the Nintendo. When I was 19 I studied Communication Design at SCAT (now Bridgwater & Taunton College). The ‘college years’. A time to taste the night life of Taunton. Nearly every 20.
We spent many a night trying our luck with the ladies. I remember one night I was the driver. I was sick of drinking coke all night. My mate said, “Have you tried Red Bull?”. “Well, no mate, never heard of it” I replied. He insisted it was non alcoholic and the barman confirmed that fact. What I didn’t realise at the time was that drinking nearly 8 cans of the stuff over the night probably wasn’t the best idea. I was wired all night, buzzing on the drive home and still awake when I had to start my shift at Woolworths at 10am the next day. Night Owls was famous in the late 90s for their epic foam parties. The ‘youth of today’ can keep their selfies. As a teenage lad dancing with girls in foam was like a dream. The only downside was when it was winter. It wasn’t so fun when your shirt was soaked through and the night air hit you outside like some frozen tazer. We used the keep jumpers in our car to go home in. I still remember the chattering teeth listening to Stardust’s - Music Sounds Better With You. And it did, every Thursday at Creech Castle with mates.
By Paul Smith Word Gets Around Want to share your memories of Taunton? Can your memory stretch back to when ‘hat shop used to be that’ or did you meet your first love feeding the squirrels in Vivary Park? We would love to hear your memories. Send us an email at info@wordgetsaround.co.uk or www.facebook.com/thewordgetsaround
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Miss Windsor’s Victorian Boiled Fruitcake! Method 1.
2. 3. Hello, darlings! I’m thrilled to present Miss Windsor’s Quick & Easy Victorian Boiled Fruitcake - a delightful addition to an afternoon tea pageantry of goodies; or a rather toothsome, time-saving alternative to the traditional Christmas cake.
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Preparation time: 45 mins Cooking time: 1 & 1/2 hrs Serves 8-10 delightful guests!
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Ingredients
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600g dried mixed fruit 1 Litre of orange juice or any rum/brandy 150g unsalted butter 180g dark brown sugar 3 heaped teaspoons ground allspice 2 heaped teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 heaped teaspoons ground ginger 1 heaped teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 250 ml cold water zest of one lemon zest of one orange 2 eggs 150g plain flour 150g self-raising flour juice - half an orange
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Darlings soak the dried fruit in orange juice for approximately one hour, then immediately drain. Or if you’d rather make the alcoholic version, then please soak the fruit in any rum or brandy for a good week or longer. Preheat your oven to 180*C / 160*C Fan / 350*F / gas mark 4. First off, prepare your cake tin and grease with butter. Then line the base with greaseproof paper. Zest the orange and lemon. Combine in a large saucepan: fruit, butter, sugar, allspice, cinnamon, ginger, bicarbonate of soda, water and zest of lemon/orange. Now, bring to the boil for a couple of minutes. Stir and combine the ingredients with a wooden spoon, then leave to cool down for ten minutes or so. Add the eggs, one at a time to the slightly cooled mixture, and beat well with a wooden spoon - How exhilarating! Sift the plain and self-raising flour, then add to the saucepan and mix well. Okey dokey, if you fancy a rather moist cake, then squeeze the juice of half an orange into the mixture and give it another jolly good stir! Pour into the prepared cake tin - there’s a good darling! Now, the following instruction will stop the sides of the cake tin from becoming too hot, thus preventing your cake from burning. So, please fold the sheets of newspaper (2 at a time) in half, then half again. Wrap the folded paper around the tin. Tie with string. Place on the middle shelf and bake for approximately 1 hr to 1.5 hrs. To protect your cake from browning too quickly on top, cover half-way through with a sheet of foil. Your cake is ready when it’s firm to the touch and a skewer comes out clean.
Equipage • • 22.
round cake tin (20 cm / 8 inches) 4 sheets of newspaper & string
Find out more at www.misswindsor.uk
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Ever heard of the word Geocaching ?
In May 2000 the US Government gave civilians access to 24 of its Global Positioning System satellites. Overnight any GPS device could pin point a bearing to within feet. The following day Dave Ulmer decided to hide a bucket full of goodies in the Oregon woods and put the coordinates on the internet and a challenge to any other GPS users to find it . The bucket contained a book and he asked people to take something out, but put something in as an exchange and write their name in the book. Within three days two others found the bucket using a GPS tracker and they also put the co-ordinates on their web pages and Geocaching was born.
So where do you start and what do you do. You need to register (for free) on the Geocache site. www. geocaching.com. Once in, you insert your postcode and a page pops up with a list of hidden caches, starting with the nearest to you at the top. It’ll take a little time to familiarise with it. Each cache is given a name, tells you how far away, what the terrain is like. You will find the co-ordinates too, which you put into your GPS. So armed with kids, dog and warm clothing your can set off. The page lists good starting points and where to park. I bet there is one not more than half a mile from where you are now.
The word Geocache is made up from ‘Geo’, meaning earth or ground and ‘cache’ meaning a hoard or hidden treasure. The treasure is usually a plastic container, in it you will find a selection of goodies, maybe pens, pencil sharpener, badges, think Xmas cracker goodies and a book. The cache will be hidden from view, under a tree or stone maybe. The coordinates take you down to the last 30 sq ft and there is a clue to where it might be.
So off you go, the GPS shows an arrow in the direction you should walk and how far away you are. Once found you enter your name in the book, take an item out and leave one of yours in and securely put it back. When you get home you can tick the site off and leave a message to the ones who have hidden it. These type of caches are the traditional sort but there are many variations, as you will discover.. It makes walking over the hills a little more exciting and the whole family can get involved and you’ll be a little fitter too.
Today there are over two million hidden caches around the world, from the Antarctica, to deep in the Borneo jungle and even one on the International space station. There are many around Taunton and the surrounding areas. So if you want to make a day out walking the hills a little more interesting, why not invest in a hand held GPS or turn your smart phone into one using a download app from their website.
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Making a Will as a new parent I made my first Will eight years ago, when times were simpler. My only concern was who would receive my David Campese-signed World Cup Final program and Fender Telecaster. Since then I have married, own a property with my wife and have two young children. There are now three people more important than anything else. More important than a Fender. I want to ensure that if anything should happen that my wife and children are provided for and protected. However, if an individual dies without leaving a Will the Intestacy Rules apply. These are far from ideal in many cases. Under the Intestacy Rules, if you die leaving a spouse and children, the surviving spouse will receive the first ÂŁ250,000 from your estate outright, with an additional sum of half of the remainder. The other half is left upon trust for your children to inherit at the age of 18. Meanwhile, if you are unmarried at the time of death, the intestacy rules do not provide anything at all for the surviving partner, and the entire estate would pass to your children. In the event that both spouses die, their estates would pass entirely to their children, but again to inherit at the age of 18. I, for one, would not have been in a position to handle a significant inheritance at this age, particularly following a potentially traumatic event. Furthermore, the intestacy rules do not automatically appoint guardians for children where both parents die. This can result in messy inter-family litigation, and the children may ultimately end up in the care of individuals you would not have chosen. When parents of young children ask for my advice regarding their Wills, there are three things I ask them to consider. First, is the appointment of guardians. Many will wish to appoint siblings or parents, though you can appoint anyone to act in this position. It is also worth ensuring that the Executors and Trustees of your estate 24.
have the power to release funds to assist with the financial burden of acting as guardian. The next will be the appointment of Executors and Trustees. These are the individuals who administer the estate and control the funds until such time as your children ultimately inherit. Though these can be the same people as the guardians, it is worth considering independent individuals, to ensure there is some neutrality in the management of the funds. Finally, there is the age at which the children are to inherit. You can impose a specific age, such as 21 or 25. However, I often advise parents to consider the flexibility provided by a Discretionary Trust. Under a Discretionary Trust your trustees will have the discretion to decide as and when the beneficiary is to receive part of their inheritance. For example, part may be used at the age of 18 for University fees, part towards the purchase of a house at 23, and the entire amount at a time when they are more financially responsible. The trustees may also make a loan to the beneficiary for the purchase of a property, to help protect the inheritance from divorce or bankruptcy. I am aware that becoming a parent is a life changing and financially demanding experience. However, a properly drafted Will is something else to add to the list of travel systems, stair gates, sleep suits, moses baskets and baby monitors. Finally, as a solicitor, husband and parent I appreciate that it is difficult to find the time to seek the necessary advice. Therefore, I am happy to offer my clients flexible appointments. Whether it is 10am on a Saturday morning or 7pm on a Wednesday evening, I will work to fit in around you. Will Vine Partner Everys Solcitors
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01823 337636 will.vine@everys.co.uk 5 Heron Gate Office Park Hankridge Way Taunton TA1 2LR
legal expertise for everyone Everys has been providing high quality legal advice, delivered professionally yet personally to businesses, individuals and families across the region for many years.
everys.co.uk
Budleigh Salterton | Exeter | Exmouth | Honiton | Seaton | Sidmouth | Taunton | London
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Placing the arts at the heart of education At Spaeda we’re passionate about making a difference to the lives of children and young people through creativity and the arts. The arts inspire and engage, raise confidence and aspiration. We believe that all children are entitled to a creative education and access to arts and culture. The current squeeze on the arts in schools is unprecedented. Teacher recruitment and retention is under enormous pressure and we are seeing a mental health crisis in children and young people. At Spaeda we believe that putting the arts and creativity at the heart of education supports the well-being of staff and pupils and provides space for rich learning experiences. Established as a charity in 2001, we act to maximise children and young people’s engagement with arts and culture, reducing barriers to participation and building confidence and skills in arts leaders.
Sharing information We respond to regular requests from schools looking for partners and resources. We signpost to national schemes such as Artsmark and the Arts Award. We work with Sound Foundation Somerset to help music education reach as many children and young people as possible. 26.
Carrying out research and consultation With the University of Exeter, Graduate School of Education, we are developing a research project to enhance the understanding and application of drawing as a tool for learning. With the Quantocks Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty we are engaging children and young people in heritage, ecology, art and landscape. We want to hear from schools in West Somerset, Taunton and Bridgwater to ensure we include what young people need. Training and supporting school staff We train and support teachers to be confident about their own creativity and to experience the impact of making on their own well-being. At our events teachers share ideas on creative partnerships and gain practical skills for delivering art in school. Teachers attending Spaeda’s Primary Art Conference enjoyed presentations and workshops from local and national arts education specialists. All those attending ‘felt more confident about delivering art in school as a result of the conference’.
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(6) Currency (6) Tool (4) Date (8) Amateur (4,3) Papal dicoese (5) Tumbler (5) Bygone (7) Glorify (8) Chana (4) Sweetheart (6) Almanac (6) Give Way
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(4) End of composition (6) Awkward (7) Rotator (5) Eight (6) Youngster (8) Unique
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The impact of our work Between 2014 and 2018 Spaeda visited 87 schools to develop their arts provision, helping InspirED, a consortium of Somerset arts organisations, attract and maintain education partnerships across the county.
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Honest Off the wall Part of intestine Voluptuous Suitably Relative
Telephone: 01823 410160/07976118650 Email: info@spaeda.org.uk Website: www.spaeda.org.uk
Spaeda has supported over 200 schools to develop their arts offer for children and young people, finding the right people and resources for family engagement projects, one-day workshops, curriculum focus days and school arts weeks. Our collaborative sketchbook project, SWITCHBOOK, supported by Arts Council England, brought arts leaders together to share skills and find creative space. The project was showcased as a model of excellence at the All Party Parliamentary Group for Art and Design in Westminster because of the way it encouraged partnerships between educational, cultural and artist communities. We are always on the look-out for people who can help us meet our charitable aims. If you’d like to volunteer, donate or find out more please get in touch: Images: Teachers find creative space and new skills in sketchbooks Š 2018 Daniel McCarthy Photography.
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Christmas Last Posting Dates Royal Mail UK Service
Royal Mail International Economy
Tuesday 18th December 2nd Class Royal Mail Signed For 2nd® Class
Friday 28th September Australia, New Zealand and all other non-European destinations (except Middle East, South Africa, Far East, USA and Canada)
Thursday 20th December 1st Class Royal Mail Signed For® 1st Class Royal Mail Tracked 48®
Saturday 29th September Middle and Far East (except Hong Kong and Singapore) and Iceland.
Friday 21st December Royal Mail Tracked 24®
Saturday 13th October South Africa, Hong Kong, Singapore, USA and Canada.
Saturday 22nd December Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®
Royal Mail International Standard (airmail) and International tracking signature services Tuesday 4th December Africa, Middle East Friday 7th December Cyprus, Malta, Asia, Far East, Eastern Europe (except Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia) Saturday 8th December Caribbean, Central and South America Monday 10th December Greece, Turkey, Australia, New Zealand Friday 14th December Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Poland and USA Saturday 15th December Finland, Sweden Monday 17th December Austria, Denmark, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland Tuesday 18th December Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg
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Saturday 3rd November Eastern Europe, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Malta and Iceland and Singapore) Saturday 17th November Western Europe
HM Forces mail - (BFPO) Monday 26th November Operational HM Forces Friday 14th December Static HM Forces
Parcelforce Worldwide International globalexpress Monday 17th December Western Europe Monday 17th December Rest of Europe and Rest of the world Monday 17th December USA / Cananda
Parcelforce Worldwide International irelandexpress Wednesday 19th December Ireland (republic of)
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UK v USA Christmas Traditions Most of the Christmas traditions are very alike when it comes to us and our Cousins across the water in America. The Christmas tree, giving of presents, Midnight Mass to name but a few. However there are a few things that we celebrate that the Americans know nothing about which maybe they would like to adopt. So here are a few:
Christmas Crackers. Invented by Thomas Smith in 1846. Originally an idea to sell sweets it was developed over the next few decades to include a motto/joke, a gift, a hat and of course the bit that makes a bang. No such thing in America though, never seen or heard of them.
Turkey Originally a bird from Mexico the turkey is a ‘must have’ centrepiece to any British Christmas dinner, but no so in America. Turkey for them is saved for Thanksgiving Day. A few do grace the American table but roast beef or other meats are more favourable.
Christmas Pudding It’s more of a mouth-watering feat. Stuff yourself on the dinner then see if you can find room for this fruit laden, rich, matured, alcohol flavoured pudding. But across the water it’s never heard of, instead the pecan tart or the apple or pumpkin pie is the follow up pud.
Father Christmas There’s no Father Christmas, he isn’t anyone’s Father. Yes to them he’s Dear ol Santa Clause and he comes from The North Pole and nowhere near Lapland.
Pantomime If there’s one thing the Americans have no concept at all of, it’s panto. To them it’s as weird as you can get. Women dressed up as men and men dressed up as woman. I’m not at all surprised. If they were ever to watch one they certainly wouldn’t understand why the audience are encouraged to hiss and boo at the Evil Count at every appearance. Why certain characters can’t see the obvious behind them, and have to be told by a whole theatre where to look!
Boxing Day The origins of this day are lost in the realms of time, but over the years has become a day to give to the poor. Later to become a holiday where the aristocracy would hand out gifts to their servants and allow them to go home to have a Christmas meal with their families. Be back for the hunt though! Celebrated by most of the Commonwealth countries it’s a just another day across the pond and take out all the empty boxes.
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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 Albermarle 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 Tone FM: .............................................................. 01823 286688 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 Centre: ........ 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 (UK helpline number): ................... 116123 Samaritans (admin only in Wood Street)..01823 289456 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 Morrisons, 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.
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Puzzle Answers December 2018
Puzzle answer Crossword
Sudoku HARD
Competition Put your magazine in your window and the first one we see gets £30 cash! It’s as simple as that.
Sudoku EASY
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