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ISSUE 43 .1
Everys’ Family Team provides quality legal expertise in Taunton and throughout the South West • Divorce & Separation • Child Arrangement Orders
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The Heart of the South West Growth Support Programme is receiving up to £1,294,302 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The accountable body for this programme is Devon County Council.
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ALL A OUT YOU
Welcome to the first magazine of 2021. Let’s kick 2020 into touch and look forward with a positive frame of mind. We all tend to dwell on the negative but whilst we have moaned about the lockdown, the tier system and the non-event Christmas, there are people out there helping others. Not just the over stretched NHS workers, but the army of volunteers who run food banks. The people checking on the elderly who have been trapped inside their homes, providing them with hot meals and comfort. The people we don’t see, the ones at the end of a telephone to help with your crisis. Let’s give our support and pay homage to these selfless people, putting themselves at risk, and giving their time to help others.
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There is light at the end of the tunnel, although we are not out of the woods yet. Give people your support. Let’s hope things will improve as we go into the new year. Support each other, support your local business and support the carers.
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Clive
Editor: Clive Smith clive@wordgetsaround.co.uk Design: Paul Smith paul@wordgetsaround.co.uk
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Like many in December, I was drawn to the closing down sale of Debenhams. A really sad occasion for Taunton. The original store was opened in 1864 by two London brothers William and Arthur Chapman. By 1902 the store occupied numbers 20 to 26 North Street and expanded into W.T. Maynards and Sons at number 19 after the war. The brothers offered for sale ‘articles of sterling quality and value’ The company celebrated its Jubilee in 1914. A history was published in The Gazette of 7th March 1914. The site nearer the bridge was a carpet and furniture warehouse whilst the adjoining part was a drapery and general store. Chapmans also ran an undertaker’s business using a horse-drawn glass-sided hearse. By 1900 the company was connected to the gas supply. 4.
Two engineers called to find a leak in January 1900 set off an explosion in the store which was said to have “upset the people in the room and relocate the staircase”. An employee had a crushed hand. Chapman’s delivery service used a traction engine in the early days and like Hatchers soon had its own motor delivery fleet. A sales list in 1930 offered (decimal equivalent) Tweed skirts at 50p, cotton frocks at £ 1.20, and Klingsil hose stockings at 50p. My wife used to have her hair done in Chapmans in the 1960s. The Chapman family were also members of the Silver Street Baptist Church. By around 1970 the store was in Debenhams hands though there seemed to be a period of transition and restructuring in the late 1960s.In 1778 William Clark opened a drapery store in London’s West End selling expensive fabrics, gloves bonnets, and parasols. In 1813 the company became known as Clark and Debenham after an injection of capital by William Debenham.
The pair opened another store at Cheltenham in 1818. The company prospered following the strict rule of fashion for early Victorian ladies. The latter half of the nineteenth century was an era of great expansion. The company again changed its name to Debenham and Freebody when Clement Freebody joined the firm in 1851. Debenhams became a limited company in 1905. More acquisitions took place up to 1928 when Debenhams became a public limited company the family having relinquished control. The 1950s saw Debenhams become the largest store group in the UK owning 84 companies and 110 stores. In 1985 Debenhams became part of the Burton group which continued to be the case until 1998. In April 2019 Debenhams entered administration. Restructuring and new funding failed to save Debenhams PLC and it finally collapsed into Receivership in December 2020 following the collapse of Arcadia which held concessions in the store. The Taunton store is leased and the owners have submitted plans for its future use.
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.5
Let’s feel positive about the year ahead. With Jo Middleton
Hello and Happy New Year! Can you believe we made it to 2021? It feels like about four years since we celebrated the start of 2020 doesn’t it? Little did we know then what the year had in store for us, how it was going to challenge us, test us and push us to deal with situations that we’ve never faced before. But we got through it. We managed the homeschooling and the seemingly constant Zoom calls from home, smart shirt on the top half, pyjamas from the waist down. We’ve found ways to keep in touch with loved ones and we’ve had a LOT of outdoor coffees in parks. We might not quite have got the trick of wearing a face mask without
our glasses steaming up, but you can’t have everything. The new year is traditionally a time for optimism, a chance to look forward with renewed hope and excitement for the future, and we need that right now. The midnight fireworks and singing of Auld Lang Syne might not have immediately meant the nightmare was over, but 2021 certainly brings the promise of a light at the end of the tunnel. Science has really pulled it out of the bag, and as the vaccination programme rolls out across the UK, we have reason to feel positive about what this year might look like. For all of us, it will come as a huge relief to see the elderly and the vulnerable protected. To not feel the weight of the virus on our shoulders wherever we go will come as a liberation to many of us I’m sure. I think one of the things that was so hard about last year was that the anxiety crept up on us - most of us didn’t realise just how much we were feeling the strain until, one by one, we hit the wall. How lovely will it be to have that cloud lifted? Imagine for a minute where we might be six months from now even, or this time next year. We’ve been consumed for so long by something bigger than all of us, that the idea of life
returning to normal is giddy and wonderful. Imagine going to big weddings and parties, singing and dancing. Sleepovers, birthdays - everything will feel like an excuse for a celebration. On a personal level, I’m excited about what 2021 is going to bring, as I started a new job in December. It’s been a long time since I was accountable to anyone, and it wasn’t without some trepidation that I said yes, but I needed to do something to see 2020 out with a bang. It’s been scary, a little daunting at times, but it’s given me back some of the drive and motivation that I’ve lost over the last 12 months and I’m excited about how much more growth there is to come. So while our glasses may be steaming up for a little while yet, we’ve every reason to feel positive about the year ahead. Let’s make 2021 a good one. Blogger of 10 years at Slummy Single Mummy. Copywriter, speaker, word whore.
Jo is the owner of the long-running and hilariously funny parenting blog, Slummy Single Mummy, She now boasts a new string to her bow as her debut novel, ‘Playgroups and Prosecco’. 6.
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.7
The Last Word-Book Review With John Fish
Winterkill By Ragnar Jónasson (Translated from the French edition by David Warriner) Published by Orenda Books (Released: 10th December 2020). 240 Pages HB £14.99 Three days before the Easter weekend begins a body of a nineteen-year-old girl is found in Siglufjörður (Northern Iceland) it is believed she had fallen to her death from a balcony. Winterkill by Ragnar Jónasson is the sixth and final instalment in the million-copy selling Dark Iceland series that sees the return of Police Inspector Ari Thór. As the temperature begins to drop and snow starts to fall Ari Thór begins to investigate the tragic death of the teenage local girl. It seems a case that the young woman committed suicide by jumping from the balcony but it is not just the weather that sends a chill through Thór’s body as he finds something that begins to suggest that this may not be a straightforward case of suicide. The newly promoted Police Inspector was looking forward to the Easter break and a chance to spend some time with his three-yearold son and try and work things out with his girlfriend but they live in Sweden. But the case now takes on a sinister twist after a visit to a local nursing home and Ari Thór now could be investigating a murder. Tense and compelling this is one thriller you won’t put down quickly. What really makes the Dark Iceland series so intensely chilling as an Icelandic winter is the writing craft of Ragnar Jónasson as he keeps the reader firmly in the grip of the storyline and its characters. This is a crime novel perfect for a winter’s night. Ragnar Jónasson has confirmed his status as a supreme crime writer.
Read more of John’s book reviews at: www.thelastwordbookreview.com
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Agent Sonya By Ben Macintyre: Lover, Mother, Soldier, Spy Published by Viking (Published: 17th September 2020). 400 Pages PB £15.00 Just when you thought you have heard many of the spy stories along comes multimillion-copy bestselling author Ben Macintyre and tells the remarkable story of a spy that I had not heard of before reading Agent Sonya. Ursula Kuczynski was born into a German Jewish Family in 1907. She went onto to become a dedicated communist and worked for the Soviet Union in the 1930’s and 1940’s. She became a Colonel in the Soviet Red Army and a highly trained spy. Ursula was so against the fascism regime in her homeland that when working for the Soviets and based in Switzerland she plotted an assignation of Adolf Hitler but this is just part of the story of a spy that even her family never knew. During 1940 Agent Sonya now remarried relocated to a quiet Oxfordshire village and Mrs Burton just slotted into the village life without question and was often seen cycling to and from the shops. She was a devoted wife but also a spy and no-one knew. But as the years went on she was now spying for the Soviets in obtaining nuclear secrets and helping them build a nuclear bomb and acted as a courier to Klaus Fuchs and also Melita Norwood. Mrs Burton had three children and they never knew of their mother’s espionage activities, she managed to keep her past a secret. Despite being interviewed by British Intelligence in 1947 she refused to talk about anything she had done for the Soviets and later managed to escape to East Germany. Dubbed ‘Stalin’s best spy’ Agent Sonya is a remarkable account of Ursula Kuczynski and her two decades in espionage.
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.9
MARTIN G STRAUS - 0747 007 8131 2020 has been the most challenging period since World War II - but there is light at the end of this tunnel, with vaccines becoming available within the foreseeable future. Pre-Christmas each year I order from Forman & Field traditional London Smoked Salmon and other delicacies - this year I ordered early, and included a small goat’s cheese - “Eve”. By coincidence, this national award-winning cheese is produced in Somerset, by White Lake Cheese, near Shepton Mallet. www.whitelake.co.uk
CORNER TEMPERLEY SOUR
This triggered a thought that it would be appropriate to feature Somerset in this edition. I adore traditional French goat’s cheeses, and Eve is soft and creamy, washed in Somerset Cider Brandy. I paid White Lake a visit and collected a variety of cheeses. The classic match in France would be a Loire Sauvignon Blanc, and I had one, which went exceptionally well. An English wine very close in character is made from the Bacchus grape, which I can’t wait to try with White Lake cheeses. Burrow Hill Sparkling Perry and goat’s cheese is another excellent pairing. I have long wished to eat at Augustus, Taunton, which has had rave reviews consistently, but is challenging on my limited retirement income! So it was a real joy to discover they are offering an ‘@ home menu’. www.augustustaunton.co.uk/menu This means I can enjoy their magnificent dishes, identical to those on their restaurant menu, but select an appropriate wine to go with them, within my budget. What I truly appreciate is being able to discuss the recipes and relevant wines with co-owner Cedric Chirrosel. For example, I recently bought a superb Lamb Provencale dish, and although a Bordeaux red is usually a natural match with lamb, the sauce demanded a more robust, flavoursome wine and I paired the dish with a halfbottle of St Joseph, Northern Rhône. Perfect! I’d have loved to pair an English red wine with such powerful ingredients, but they generally are far more delicate; Pinot Noir wouldn’t work. Before I moved to Taunton, I tasted a really interesting Rondo Reserve Red 2014, aged in oak, from Somerby Vineyards, North Lincolnshire. As I used to be a Committee Member of Wine GB (SouthWest), I really should do more research on reds in our region! 10.
• 50ml Somerset Cider Brandy 5 Year Old 42% • 50ml Discovery Apple Juice, Burrow Hill, Somerset • Juice of half a lemon, freshly pressed
SHAKE with plenty of ice TASTE for sweetness level, and adjust as necessary FINE STRAIN into Double Rocks glass with large ice cube/sphere, or plenty of standard ice cubes GARNISH - lemon zest, wipe around rim, and leave in glass Delightful, appley version of a Classic Cocktail, and a credit to Somerset!
Follow Martin’s Drinks Club on Facebook and on YouTube for a wonderful blend of recipes for you to mix, and enjoy at home.
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.11
KEV’S CLEANING SERVICES A family run business EST since 1986, with a friendly team of reliable and trustworthy window cleaners. Hello my name is Teresa Wort Qualified Mindfulness and Compassion Teacher Word Gets Around Magazine has asked me to give some suggestions for the start of 2021. How are you feeling, anxious? 2020 was extremely tough for many of us and we are not out of the woods yet … With the new vaccine the future is looking bright, but it will take time, therefore we still need to be cautious and not drop our guard now. Mindfulness can help, briefly it is the awareness of our experience here and now in this moment, we are often looking back with regrets and looking forward with worry. How do you stay present then? By being aware of our breath and senses, here and now in this moment whether pleasant or unpleasant, using your breath as your anchor, when something happens what is the first thing we do? hold our breath, whether concentrating, or hearing something we are not happy with; just watch throughout the day. When you notice this, just take two or three deep breaths with a long exhalation, this calms us. Then be aware of our senses, what can you see, hear, smell, taste, feel, wriggle your toes? When you are aware of your breath and senses then you are present in this moment here and now, we have grounded ourselves. Remember we have choice in how we respond to COVID, we cannot control, the weather, politicians, people wearing a face mask or their actions. But we can control how we respond from social distance to wearing a mask ourselves, to supporting the NHS and volunteer groups who are calling out for our support, whether that is a donation of food, clothing, money, or time, if your own circumstances allow. Stay safe and enjoy the start of 2021.
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.13
Meet Somerset-based author, activist and differently-able coach, Josephine Mariposa. Josephine’s life changed forever when she experienced a traumatic spinal injury. After spending 2 years in hospital with no diagnosis and following countless invasive tests, she was finally diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder and has since rebuilt and transformed her life. She’s done it with a unique sense of humour and reflection - managing her condition head on, rather than letting it manage her. She wrote her debut book, ‘Anything is Possible’ during the first lockdown. It’s just been published in paperback and ebook and it shares Josephine’s own story, as well as the techniques she’s used to go from broken to built for a different way of life. The book acts as a guide for people experiencing lifechanging physical or mental trauma and also as inspiration for anyone looking to take their life in a different direction. Josephine’s story is a powerful and moving one and as the author herself says, “Finding out that you have a life changing illness or injury can hit you like a tsunami. The prospect of living with a disability can be depressing - mourning all the things you used to do, feeling like a burden, and wondering how you will move forward in a body that refuses to cooperate with the life you want to live. Anything is Possible shows you how to use trauma as a tool for transformation, to live a fulfilled life as your most authentic self”.
Despite her diagnosis and doctors’ talk of care homes, Josephine has always been determined to live a fulfilled life, her way... at home in the Somerset countryside, with her family. She is the mother of four children, loves connecting with nature and finds joy in growing and preparing food. She also has a passion for turning fibre to fabric. 2021 is set to be a very different year for Josephine. Her inspiring book has already debuted on several Amazon top 100 bestseller lists and we can’t wait to see where it takes her next. To get in touch with Josephine, contact her by email below or follow her on her social channels. Email: hello@josephinemariposa.com instagram.com/josephinemariposa facebook.com/jomariposauk twitter.com/joMariposa1 Anything is possible is available as an ebook and Amazon paperback and kindle. The audio book is coming in 2021, as well as news of availability in selected local bookshops. Find out more at www.josephinemariposa.com
QR codes: What are they and how do you use them? Last year saw QR Codes popping up all over the place. The NHS is using QR codes to help track where people are going during the coronavirus pandemic so that they can advise individuals if they’ve been in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19. The technology was developed in Japan for use in the automotive industry in 1994. QR codes are a type of square barcode which contain information such as a web address, package or a person’s contact information. They store information using black and white squares which can be “read” by smartphones. Often, using QR codes is quicker than manually typing in something like a long web address. Some smartphones can automatically “read” a QR code when it appears in your smartphone camera. If you have an older phone you may need to download an app. Try the ones on the right! 14.
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We understand that this is a worrying time for everyone, with an unstable job market so it’s more important than ever to make sure you get the right advice. A co-ordinated network of business, employment, skills, and apprenticeships support has been created across Somerset in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Whether you’re looking for work or need business advice and support, let us help to point you in the right direction.
Employment Support Whether you are searching for your next job opportunity, starting a new career, working on your employability skills or just beginning your journey in the work of work, you will find information and support to help you on the STEP UP Somerset website. Through STEP UP you can: • • • • •
Access support to create a strong CV, write a good covering letter and improve your interview techniques Find out how you can borrow an iPad, with internet access Find out how you can develop your skills to improve your employment prospects Search through local employment opportunities in our key sectors Find advice and guidance for young people who are making choices about their future
Redundancy Support Are you facing redundancy, or have recently been made redundant, and not sure what to do next? This can be a very stressful time, but it can also offer new opportunities, like the chance to retrain or work for yourself. Help is available on the STEP UP Somerset website. However, if you do not have internet access, then you can seek support from our Helpline on 0300 790 6275. Through STEP UP you can: • •
Seek advice about your rights if you’re made redundant Find out who to speak to on short-term financial and welfare support, such as claiming benefits, debt support and mental health
Redundancy support for businesses If you may need to make redundancies, then advice is available from Step Up Somerset. A package of support across a range of partners can be established to help your business and the affected individuals through the process.
www.stepupsomerset.org.uk
Support for Young People
Support for business
Are you aged 15-18 and not in education, employment or training (or do you know someone who is) and would like some support with your next steps?
Independent advisors are available to help Somerset businesses needing Covid support or to develop and grow. They can offer 1-2-1 sessions to help businesses access the right assistance, including local and national training, skilling up and access to business support schemes.
If so, the SomersetWorks team can help you find a positive way forward. The Somerset Works Team will listen and help you to find an opportunity that is right for you such as participating in a short vocational programme to help build key skills and confidence. This service is free to access.
www.somerset-ebp.co.uk/somersetworks.htm
This includes the Growth Support Programme, which offers a free growth plan consultation and 9 hours of free 1-2-1 sessions in either Digital, Finance, Human Resources, Innovation, Marketing, Business Planning or Road to reopening.
www.heartofswgrowthhub.co.uk
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.15
Working together for a safer and stronger community. With Sue Mountstevens
Over the past year our personal and professional lives have changed beyond any of our expectations; our communities and businesses have continued to adapt remarkably throughout the pandemic. As we welcome 2021, I hope that we all remember just how much things can change in a year and this time, I am optimistic that the year will show us compassion. Let’s start our new year with kindness and tolerance towards one another as we continue to bring our communities together. This year, although I will only be your elected PCC for a few more months, I will continue to strengthen our communities and ensure we are working together to make Taunton an even safer place to live. With the New Year comes the opportunity to reflect, take stock of the last 365 days and plan for the year ahead.
In 2020 many of us prioritised the pandemic as the restrictions associated with the virus became a huge part of our lives. However, as restrictions ease and life hopefully returns to some sort of normal, I want to challenge you to try something different this year by volunteering for your local police service. You could become an Appropriate Adult, an Independent Custody Visitor or a Special Constable, to name a few volunteering roles. Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding, the chance to try something different and an opportunity to meet new people. To find out more visit my website: avonandsomerset-pcc. gov.uk/volunteering. I’ve recently spoken to the Taunton Neighbourhood Policing Team who continue to work tirelessly with local people to reduce anti-social behaviour in the area. There have been sporadic reports of criminal damage to cars and general disruptive behaviour. I am reassured that the local team are working with parents, teachers, local councils and other
partners to educate the offenders and are working with them to show how their behaviour impacts victims in the community. On a more positive note, I’m really pleased that the local Neighbourhood Policing Team have introduced a newsletter to reach everyone in the community as we continue to live with covid related restrictions.
Please do contact your local PCSO via the ‘Your Area’ page on Avon and Somerset Police website to request a copy. You can also keep up to date online by following ‘Taunton Neighbourhood Policing’ on Facebook where the team post regular updates and crime prevention advice.
Until the end of my term as PCC, my priorities will continue to focus on victim support services, with a particular effort on supporting those victims of domestic abuse; oversight of the efficiency of the Criminal Justice process; working with Violence Reduction Units to reduce violent crime in our communities; and engaging with local people.
If you wish to contact the PCC, please email pcc@avonandsomerset.pnn.police.uk, phone 01278 646188 or write to the following address: Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, Police Headquarters, Valley Road, Portishead, BS20 8JJ. 16.
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Volunteer with us Be part of the positive change we’re bringing to young people’s health and social care services in Somerset. mental health - carers - GPs - hospitals - dentists - pharmacies - NHS 111 - leaving care - opticians
Aged 11-24? Become a Young Listener Find out what young people think about the health and wellbeing services they use and what changes they want to see.
Get in touch 01278 264405
info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk
healthwatchsomerset.co.uk To advertise please call us on 01823 765045 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk
.17
Taunton Town F.C’s 2020/21 Southern League Premier South season continues to be put on hold having not played since their F.A Trophy defeat at home to Truro City on 3rd November.
The Southern, Isthmian & Northern Premier leagues last week voted to continue the suspension of their seasons in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic. Reviews are set for 16 December and then 30 December in the hope that all the Step 3 leagues may possibly resume in January, but this will not be until there is a change in the Government’s Tier System and/or some progress in the funding of the clubs at this level. Despite the continued enforced break Taunton Town have secured the services of promising youngster Elias Youssef from Melksham Town. The 20 year old midfielder already gained experience at a higher level with Cardiff City, Forest Green Rovers before joining Chippenham Town for last season when he made 27 appearances for the National League South side. After his departure he had fleeting spells at Merthyr Town, Redditch United and Melksham.
goalkeeping coach. Len recently joined us as part of the backroom team to put goalkeeper Lloyd Irish through his paces. Len brings a wealth of experience to the Club having made over 150 League appearances for Exeter City and also played for Bristol City, Brentford, Colchester United and Cardiff City before taking up coaching roles at Bristol City, Bristol Rovers, Exeter City and Yeovil Town and the FA”.
The Peacocks are moving forward with planning for an outdoor Digital Screen in partnership with sponsors, Copper Dot. The Screen will be used for advertising, match footage, live event streaming, social media feeds and ticket sales.
Off the pitch, the Peacocks continue to progress and move with the times. With the need to comply with Government Covid-19 regulations and Test & Trace with limits on attendances, Match-Day Ticketing has moved online with Eventbrite. Supporters are able to purchase tickets to fixtures at wgalink.com/ tauntontown The Club SHOP has continued to thrive, operating remotely throughout the pandemic and opening on various dates on the approach to Christmas. New products including Taunton Town Snoods, Baseball Caps and the 2021 Calendar can be ordered via email at clubshop@tauntontown. com. As the SHOP continues to grow, it’s online store will become operational during early 2021.
The Club continues supporting its local Community providing a vital communication link for anyone needing support of any kind during the most recent lockdown. Anyone in the community can take advantage of the service by calling the Taunton Town FC Match-day Assistance Line on 07584 671053 or alternatively 07778 434055. Taunton Town F.C have made a recent donation of £300 to the Taunton Foodbank and have also donated playing squad towels to the local RSPCA. UpThePeacocks! Photos courtesy of Ashley Harris
Head of Football Rob Dray added: “I’m pleased to get Elias over the line. He is another energetic young player with a good pedigree and will enhance the squad in what will be a congested remainder of the season”. Another valuable addition to the Squad is Len Bond, our new
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BRAIN TRAIN
Cognitive training is a program of regular activities that help to maintain or improve one’s cognitive abilities.
Hi! I’m Petee. My friend Charlie the Chameleon is great at hiding. He’s hidden somewhere within this magazine. See if you can spot him and email us with where he is. Email.... info@wordgetsaround.co.uk*
Where’s that to? Across
Above which restaurant would you find this? 1.
2.
1. Name this Somerset born entrepreneur. 2. Name this Minehead born Writer, inventor, futurist.
7 9 10 11 12 13 16 17 19 21 22 23
Rubbery, flexible (7) Application, employment (5) Well known (5) Compress, contract (7) Large flightless bird (3) Slowly get rid off (8) Moaners (8) Vat, bucket (3) _______ Banderas, actor (7) Gone ____, circulated rapidly over the internet (5) Most important person (5) Sir Ranulph _______, Polar explorer (7)
20.
Release from captivity (7) Speak ill of (8) Lothario (4) Clumsy incompetents (8) Agreement (4) Switches baby to solid food (5) Style of bread (11) Folding ranger tool (8) Proclaiming (8) Dispose of (7) Cheekily sexy (5) Slim (4) Outlook, scene (4)
How to play...
A man is found hanging dead from his ceiling where the room’s dimensions measure 15 x 15 x 15. However, the man is only 6 feet tall and the rope was only 2 feet long. If there are no windows, the only door was bolted shut from the inside, and there is a puddle of water beneath him, how did he kill himself?
1. The name for the shape of Pringles is called a “Hyperbolic Paraboloid”. 2. Mr Potato Head was the first toy to be advertised on TV. 3. The television was invented only two years after the invention of sliced bread. 4. Tigers have striped skin not just striped fur. The stripes are like fingerprints and no two tigers have the same pattern. 5. All dogs are banned from Antarctica since April 1994. This ban was made because of concern that dogs might spread diseases to seals.
1 2 3 4 5 6 8 13 14 15 18 20 21
Sudoku
Ok, get this one...
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Down
Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. A Red Red Rose Ae Fond Kiss Alloway Auld Lang Syne Bagpipes Burns Night Clootie Dumplings Excise Man Folk songs Haggis
Hogmanay Lyricist Neeps Port Rabbie Burns Scotland Tam O Shanter Tatties To A Mouse Wha Hae Whisky
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The Diaries Of
Ginger
George Taunton’s Top Cat - the word on the street. What a month we’ve just had — the house went crazy! It all starts when — for some apparent reason — my carers think it’s a good idea to bring a tree into the house. Why? I’ll never know. They cover it with flashing lights and balls but I’m not allowed to play with it or climb up it, as I found to my dismay in years past. As soon as I so much as tap a ball or even look at it, I’m shooed away. The idea is to leave it there until all the needles fall off it and then — and only then — do they take it away. Can’t understand why — but, then again, humans do tend to do the strangest things. On top of that, they lay boxes underneath with things in them. They stay there for weeks, all wrapped up. Why wrap them up? They must know what’s inside them. To add to this, they start to hoard loads of chocolates and stack them on a table in the lounge. Nobody touches them for a couple of weeks. And every available shelf is loaded with pictures of snow, or some geezer with a beard — or little red birds. To be honest, I do like the red birdy ones. Then, for no apparent reason, very early one particular morning, they all go mad. The girls come down early from their bedrooms — weird in itself — quickly followed by my carers. They sit around, all excited, in their dressing gowns and hand each other the parcels from under the half-bald tree. This is the painful bit, when the girls scream loudly and dance around the room. Meanwhile, my Daddy carer places clothing on the arm of the settee — shirts, pants and socks — and Mummy carer opens up boxes that stink of something. I haven’t a clue what’s going on. I think it’s some sort of game just to see if they can cover the carpet in paper. A few hours later, my Mummy carer spends ages in the kitchen and she has got one of the biggest birds I’ve ever seen. We are not talking sparrows here — I mean, this thing is bigger than me! Now, I’m very partial to the odd bird, but this thing is sitting in the oven — not a feather on it — and, I must admit, it smells lovely.
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This is the time when the competition starts. They put loads and loads of food on the table, then they all put bits of paper around their heads — don’t laugh! — and next it’s who can eat the most without exploding. When one plate is cleared, they bring out more — where does it all go? I have no idea who wins or even why. Then it’s all cleared away and it’s into the lounge to start eating all the chocolates and, when they just can’t eat any more, they fall asleep on the settee. An hour later, they wake up and start playing with some of the things that were in the parcels. Daddy carer has this thing, and —to start with — I thought it was brilliant. I have no idea what it is or what it does, but it takes off from the floor and flies around the room. So, I reckon it will be fun to chase whatever it is — and from the back of the settee I lunge at it and take it right out the air. Not my best move, it turns out, as it has spinning things on it which nearly take my paw off. Not only that, someone picks me up and throws me out the back door into the garden. Well if that’s how you want to play it... It was wet and cold out there, so I trundle down to Mrs Higgins’ house — she’s the old lady who lives on her own a few doors down. I jump on her windowsill and she lets me in — she looks very pleased to see me. No balding tree in her house, just a little dusty one on a coffee table — about a foot high — but no parcels under it. She has pictures on her mantelpiece, too, but just a few. She sits back down in her chair and carries on watching the TV in the corner of the room. It’s only a little one, compared to the one in our house. Then there is a knock on the door and a woman in a uniform gives her something. It turns out to be food in a metal dish, but the food is only enough to cover a small plate — seems like Mrs Higgins doesn’t go in for this competition lark. She has a small pudding, too, but none of those chocolate things. Afterwards, she clears it away and I sit on her lap — as the room isn’t that warm — while she strokes me gently. I’m asleep in no time, but I’m sure she says something to me. Was it “Merry Christmas, George”...? Anyway, I just purr happily and go back to sleep.
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Try something different! Somerset Libraries would like to invite people to pop in and try something new. The ‘Library Choice’ service has been hugely popular over the lockdown periods, with customers saying how much they have enjoyed their ‘mystery reads’ picked out for them by friendly, knowledgeable library staff. Now a simple drop-in service is on offer so that anyone can come and have a chat and take home something different to try over the winter season. This can be a particularly difficult time for anyone living alone or feeling sad, anxious or isolated, and having just a little time to have a friendly chat with someone can make a real difference – so come in and let your local librarian share some ideas with you. Most libraries are open during the holiday season and staff will be on-hand to give advice and information…or just to say hello! If you love reading crime or romance, why not try a different author or perhaps a whole new genre? Have you ever tried talking books, so you can just sit back and let someone else read a story? (talking books are free for anyone with a sight impairment) or why not let staff show you how to sign up and download free e-Magazines, e-Audiobooks or e-Newspapers, with free backissues and you can keep them for as long as you like.
You could even borrow a DVD for a small fee and watch a film you haven’t seen before, or perhaps re-kindle some memories with one you watched some time ago. The public computers are also available for anyone who may be struggling with IT at home,
Taking some time for you Group, Private & Online Classes www.alittlespace.uk or contact lucy@alittlespace.uk 24.
although you may need to pre-book a session so staff have time to ensure everything is properly cleaned in line with requirements to make things ‘Covid safe’.
All you need to do to access any of this is drop-in to your local library – if you are not a member or if you would someone to check if your library membership is still valid that’s fine, the friendly staff will be happy to help, just bring proof of identification with you such as a driving licence or passport.
For anyone unable to leave their home, the Home Library Service is still able to offer a doorstep delivery service – contact kirsty.Jenssen@ royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk for details of how to arrange a visit from a volunteer. To check opening hours of libraries, please visit www.somersetlibraries.co.uk or call 0300 123 2224
c r UK Pl A Majo s people ek e requir £250 per we hours ible me Part tir week - Flex ome pe mh 12 hrs Working fro 432383 1823 Fri Call: 0 4-6 pm Monen Betwe
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Tdbuildingservices Tdbuildingservices
We offer an experienced team of fully qualified tradesmen for all your building requirements. We are based near Taunton and cover the whole of Somerset and the surrounding regions. We deliver quality projects from design to completion and services based on your individual requirements.
Contact us today for a free on site quotation. Tel:
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.25
“We are starting a revolution in the way we view mobility products, one scooter or power chair at a time!” Experienced and knowledgeable staff. Honest Advice. Trusted Advisers. Home delivery and Installation. Repairs and After Sales Service – in-house workshop and highly experienced technicians. Mobility Scooters - Power Chairs Rise & Recline Chairs - Adjustable Beds Stairlifts - Wheelchairs - Walking Sticks Rollators - Walking Frames - Bath Lifts
Try our products in our store in Taunton! 50 The Mount, Taunton, Somerset TA1 3NR.
Making Life Easier was established in Taunton in 1985, and since then has become a respected and trusted local name in mobility products. In October 2020 the baton was handed over to a new owner, ready to build on this strong reputation. You will see that the business has been given a fresh new look, ready to meet the changing needs of our customers and to embrace the next generation.
Our many years of experience enable us to guide you to the best solutions for your individual needs. We are very proud of our reputation for exceptional customer service.
A friendly welcome is always guaranteed when you visit the shop. We have a free car-park and we are making changes to the showroom to make space for new products, including a Stair Lift that you can ‘try before you buy’. Pop in and check out our range of specialist electrical lift and reclining chairs in the correct size for you.
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There are so many benefits to using Making Life Easier. • We can deliver straight to your door.
• Our experienced and knowledgeable staff will set up your equipment. • We take away all the packaging and use eco-friendly packaging wherever we can.
• We also offer in-house service and repairs. Our engineers are professional and highly experienced.
Making Life Easier has a vision to start a revolution to brighten up mobility products. We would like to see more colour and personality added to the products we sell. We are also researching the mobility and disability industry, always on the lookout for the latest innovative products to help our customers live their lives with confidence. Making Life Easier is determined to be involved in the Taunton Community. We want to be the first place you think of should you ever need help with mobility or disability issues. We look forward to welcoming you to the shop soon and wish customers old and new, good health and happiness for 2021!
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Mattancherry Taunton Come and experience India in 3 Square Miles Mattancherry is open seven days a week for both lunch and dinner, with reservations advised, and with exclusive private dining available on the restaurant’s first floor. The team prides itself in maintaining the highest standards of cooking, hygiene and customer care, however for those not yet comfortable with dining out, there is a comprehensive take away menu available, so food lovers can bring all the colour and taste of Kerala to their own homes. Loganathan and Ricardo are delighted to offer readers of Word Gets Around Magazine an exclusive special offer – please use the voucher below with their compliments. Come and experience Mattancherry – India in 3 Square Miles – where a warm welcome and an exclusive menu await.
Get 20% off your food bill for either dine in or take away, Sunday to Thursday
Word Gets Around take a visit to see what’s cooking! Watch the video! Scan the QR code with your smartphone.
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Whatever your experience...
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No matter what your skill set, current situation, or experience there is a career in care for you. To fi nd out more, please call us on 01823 697 652, email us on jobs@somersetcare.co.uk, or visit careers.somersetcare.co.uk/job4you
Somerset Care much more opportunity. To advertise please call us on 01823 765045 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk
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Start the journey towards a happier and more successful future in 2021.
Jane Phillips is a passionate Life Coach based in Somerset who believes, from experience, that to be truly successful – and happy – a balance must be struck between the body, the brain and nutrition. Through her work, she aims to help people navigate unwelcome changes and discover longterm holistic solutions through a combination of mentoring and executive coaching. “I believe that you cannot be happy with your work if you are unhappy with yourself and you cannot be happy with yourself if you are unhappy with work. I want to give people the clarity to make the right decisions and to find their own, individuallytailored, long-term solutions so they can feel better naturally and succeed”.
FREE 30-MINUTE DISCOVERY CALL WITH FEEL BETTER NATURALLY Feel Better Naturally helps individuals navigate and celebrate their ‘30s to 60s’ or mature years by understanding all elements of their life, from professional to personal. Providing a bespoke understanding of their physical and/or mental requirements and creating a long-term holistic solution for mind, body and soul.
FREE 60-MINUTE EXECUTIVE COACHING SESSION THROUGH JANE PHILLIPS COACHING
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Jane Phillips Coaching evaluates each business’ or individual’s needs, understands their situation and their issues and works closely with them to devise a strategy that will help reduce or remove the impact that these issues may cause, whilst providing support for growth, development and increased momentum To start your New Year journey, visit www.janephillipscoaching. co.uk to book your free session or for blogs and podcasts, as well as information about strategic planning, financial sustainability, training courses and mentoring services, follow Jane on Facebook: @FeelBetterNaturally @JanePhillipsCoaching
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Neil Robertson Plumbing & Heating Ltd Plumbing - Heating - Renewables
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm emergency mobile: 07050 263606 e: info@neilrobertsonplumbing.co.uk www.neilrobertsonplumbing.co.uk
Plumbing: We cover all issues, Big or Small Heating: From a Boiler Service to Full Installation
Call us on: 01823 413999
• Bathroom installations /repairs • Taps • Pipework • Install or Repair Toilets • Fit Washing Machines / Dishwashers
• Boiler installations / repairs • Radiator Checks • Boiler Service • Landlord Reports • Power Flushing • LPG Gas Boiler Install / Repairs
We need more charging points to enable more electric cars on the road.
There are 100% grants available. Our mission is to reduce co2 emissions and donate to reforest our future.
Call Pete Ash to find out more.
We donate to treesister. For every install we plant many trees ✅ www.treesisters.org
To advertise please call us on 01823 765045 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk
.29
SHOP WITH US FROM HOME ANYTIME ON
Keep supporting your local community from home. With click&collect now available, it’s shopping on your schedule. In October this year, Somerset West and Taunton Council became the first Council in Somerset to team-up with awardwinning digital platform, ‘ShopAppy’, enabling residents to buy goods and services online from their local retailers and businesses. For residents who are looking to shop safely this Christmas, perhaps because they are isolating or prefer not to shop in person whilst the tier 2 restrictions remain in place, ShopAppy can help maintain contact with their favourite independent shops, all from the safety of their own home. Conversely, for those who don’t have time to visit their high street or tend to shop mostly using online giants and supermarkets, ShopAppy by comparison provides gratification for shoppers wishing to support their local economy. This gratification has also been coined by ShopAppy and its clients as ‘ShopAppiness’ – the feeling of being more connected to the area in which one lives, having been able to shop locally! Customers using the shopappy.com platform can browse an array of goods, services and experiences showcased via the virtual shop windows of businesses across Dulverton, Minehead, Taunton and Wellington. A total of 79 businesses have now registered to date with new businesses and products frequently coming online. Home delivery of purchases made are available for only £4.95 within a 5 mile radius. Alternatively, click-and-collect services are offered from shops directly or convenient collection points for outside normal business hours. The collection points are: Minehead Information Centre, The Beach Hotel, The Avenue, TA24 5AP.
Taunton Visitor Centre, Market House, Fore Street, Taunton, TA1 1JD.
The Blue Pantry, 14 Fore Street, Wellington, TA21 8AQ.
To view the list of shops, services and markets available in the Somerset West and Taunton area, visit shopappy.com. Cllr Marcus Kravis, Executive Member for Economic Development, said: “It’s vital that we continue to support our local shops and businesses as we begin the economic recovery from Coronavirus and ShopAppy is another way of achieving this. It’s perfect for those unable to visit their high street, providing a simple, safe and centralised online marketplace for all their local shopping needs”.
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Looking for inspiration for your new bathroom? Visit the showroom for some innovative ideas and advice on design, style, colour & practicality.
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The winter garden With Rachael Leverton
If I say ‘winter garden’ what do you imagine? A stately home? Evergreen shrubs? Topiary maybe? It dawned on me a few years ago when I was out walking the dog on a frosty morning that winter gardens are really all about the light. From late autumn through the winter there is a pink-gold low slanting light in the morning and afternoon which makes frost and raindrops sparkle, casts interesting shadows and makes everything look magical. Watch your garden throughout the day from the rooms you where you see it best. Watch where and when the sunlight falls and plan accordingly. Grasses look beautiful when they are covered in frost and backlit. The red or yellow winter stems of Cornus (or dogwood) however seem to glow when winter sunshine illuminates them directly. Most suburban houses have smaller gardens, easily visible from the house so it’s important to choose plants which look good in more than one season. As well as shrubs with good stem colour, look for smaller trees with pretty bark. There are plenty of small Japanese Maples which can be grown in tubs. If you have a little more space
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a silver birch can look stunning, or even my favourite, the paper-bark maple, Acer griseum, which is a slow-growing small tree, pretty all year round with crimson leaves in the autumn then a characteristic chestnut bark which peels naturally to reveal bright orange red bark underneath. Look for plants with architectural shapes such as one of the sculptural eryngiums (sea holly), salvias or sedums. All look beautiful in the summer and autumn but gain a second lease of life when covered with frosted cobwebs. lants like these will make you want to get out in your garden even in winter, so add a little scent with a winter jasmine or a sarcococca confusa (Christmas box) which has tiny white highly scented flowers. These late flowering plants provide a source of nectar for early pollinators. I no longer tidy my flower beds. I leave piles of fallen leaves and debris in beds to provide shelter for wildlife. The leaves to rot down in the end which is good for the soil too. But I do spend time neatening the edge of the lawn and sharpening the edges of my borders. It’s amazing how much smarter my garden looks with minimal effort. I wish you a Happy New Year and happy gardening.
Local insurance broker providing competitive quotes for Motor, Household, Let & Unoccupied properties, Listed buildings and travel. Visit our friendly experienced team at 45 St James Street, Taunton (opposite the Ring of Bells Pub). Call us on 01823 277188 or visit our website Bruford.co.uk
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Over 45 years building experience. 15 years experience in stove installation. Local family run business. All works carried out by in house friendly tradesmen for complete clarity, transparency and peace of mind.
Qualified Stove Installers | Fireplace and chamber design/restoration Roof and chimney repairs | Bricklaying | Plastering
No chimney? No problem. We will have the solution for you.
Tel: 01643 704040 www.stovesandfuels.co.uk Unit 12, Vennlands Business Centre, Mart Road, Minehead, TA24 5BJ
PICKERS PARADISE House clearance & secondhand shop (Discover an Aladdin’s Cave) Taunton antiques collective Open Saturday & Sunday 10-4
Courtlands Ind. Estate. TA2 6NS. Call us on: 07930 750747
Apple FM is your local community radio station, here to entertain you but also to inform you. Contact us if you have an event to advertise or a business to promote, talk directly to the community of Taunton and spread your message over the airwaves. With a wide range of locally produced LIVE shows listen in to 97.3 Apple FM Taunton, we are also Online, on Smart Speaker or our dedicated APP.
Email sales@applefm.co.uk or call 01823 288970
Would you like to be a Volunteer Headway Buddy? Support and encourage people following a brain injury, as they look to rebuild confidence and make connections with their communities and interests. Learn about Head Injury Ongoing support and training opportunities Develop transferable skills (great for your CV) Meet people and have fun
Call: 07927 644128 Email: tricia@headwaysomerset.org.uk www.headwaysomerset.org.uk
New Builds | Extensions | Loft Conversions | Eco Homes
Full Architectural Service, Planning, Building Control and Project Management.
Contact Keith Stockwell on 07523 062219 / Keith@tekkwise.com www.tekkwise.com
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Farmer isaac I ‘ad a luvvly pint of zider in the pub t’other day. I tuck the missus down for a bit of a session. “’ere, I luv’s you”, I sez. “That be the nicest thing you’d ever said to me”, Her sez. “I wuz talking to the cider M’dear”
Anna Sasin People who use selfie sticks really need to have a good, long look at themselves.
8
Elle Vator The last thing I want to do is hurt you; but it’s still on the list.
14
TAUNTON 30,000 copies WEST SOMERSET 14,000 copies
Noah Lott What’s a frog’s favourite type of shoes? Open toad sandals.
9
Shelia Bligh Adam & Eve were the first ones to ignore the Apple terms and conditions.
22
Warren Peace Geology rocks, but geography’s where it’s at.
10
Lena Ginster Four fonts walk into a bar. The bartender says, ‘Hey! We don’t want your type in here!’ 12 Constance Noring The first time I got a universal remote control, I thought to myself, ‘This changes everything.’
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Lou Brush Have you heard about the new restaurant in town called ‘Karma?’ There’s no menu—you get what you deserve.
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Paul Cue If you don’t pay your exorcist, do you get repossessed?.
Advertise in both our magazines and get 10% off We offer 10% off for charities. Sign up for a year (6 issues) and get 25% off the price of the 6th issue. FREE artwork on all adverts.
To advertise please call us on 01823 765045 or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk
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OUR MAR/APR DEADLINE IS 19th FEBRUARY.
Ok, get this one... The man stood on a block of ice and waited for it to melt to be hung. Where’s that to? Blurry STARS 1. British businesswoman and TV personality, Dragon’s Den star Deborah Meaden. Above Hubbox in North Street, Taunton.
2. Sir Arthur Charles Clarke. English science-fiction writer, science writer, futurist, inventor, undersea explorer, and television series host.
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.
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NEW YEAR PROMOTIONS START 4TH JANUARY! UP TO 50% OFF SELECTED KITCHEN RANGES.
ENJOY THE LUXURY OF INDIVIDUALLY STYLED KITCHENS, BATHROOMS AND BEDROOMS. All our installations reflect our passion, imagination, craftsmanship and experience, turning your interior dreams into reality. As an independent and trusted local retailer we are authorised dealers for many leading manufacturers, including Symphony, Schüller German kitchens & Miele, to name a few. Give us a call and we will help bring your dreams to life.
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36.
624700
Come and see us: Ground Floor 1, The Courtyard, Higher Ford, Wiveliscombe, TA4 2RL. Visit us online: sales@homefrontdesign.uk.com www.homefrontdesign.uk.com
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