North Somerset Magazine December 2021 by Direct Local Bristol

NORTH SOMERSET MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2021

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This Month..

The team

4. Leading integrative cancer charity 6. Brand new art trail comes to Bedminster 8. Whats on this month 10. Bristol Sounds 2022 12. History of the mince pie 14. Christmas ginger bread biscuits 16. A new state-of-the-art fertility clinic 20. Small talk is not dead 22. Stockhill Wood Walkies 24. Bristolian publishes first crime thriller 31. This months movies 32. Two Bristol charities 34. Your garden

EDITOR Michael Davies Journalist Lisa Davies PROOF READER Elisabeth Davies

Disclaimer The opinions expressed in Direct Local do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publisher or their agents. Whilst every reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included within this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions in Direct Local. The content of Direct Local is not to be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. Please pass to a friend, recycle or compost. All adverts designed by Direct Local are the property of Direct Local please contact us if you wish to reprint them in other publications as a small release fee Is applied. Use of adverts designed by us will need written permission first.

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Regular editorials By: Andrea Sexton, Martin Powell Daren Bane Kayleigh Penny Andrew Varney kierstan Lowe Corinna Ingram Molly Pownall Susan Uzel Distribution: North Somerset Magazines are delivered to homes and businesses to reach 20,000 people each month..

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LEADING INTEGRATIVE CANCER CHARITY WELCOMES TWO NEW TRUSTEES Penny Brohn UK has announced the appointment of two new members to its Board of Trustees. The appointees are Dr Penny Kechagioglou, consultant clinical oncologist, and Jon Green, former NHS hospital chief executive and operational director. The pair join at a critical time for the charity and will be helping to steer its strategy and governance as it pursues its ambition to make sure every person with cancer in the UK is able to access and experience the best of integrative cancer care, leading to better outcomes and quality of life. Stephen Rosser, chair of trustees for Penny Brohn UK said: “I am delighted to be welcoming two such high calibre trustees on to the board. “We will benefit enormously from Penny's experience as a consultant clinical oncologist and her passion for innovation in digital health. As co-chair of the British Society for Integrative Oncology she shares our vision to make integrative cancer care mainstream in the NHS. “Jon brings a really unique perspective. His experience as a former NHS hospital chief executive, and a focus on the integration of services - building those services around the patient - will be of immense benefit to our board.” Dr Penny Kechagioglou is a consultant clinical oncologist, the chief clinical information officer and deputy chief medical officer at the University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW). 4

Penny is currently leading on the implementation of the electronic patient record (EPR) and digital transformation at UHCW and is passionate about enabling digital health through innovation. Penny said: "I feel very privileged to join Penny Brohn UK as a member of the board of trustees. The organisation has just formally celebrated its 40th anniversary and we all reflected on the huge positive impact Penny Brohn UK has had on improving outcomes for people with cancer, their carers and their families, across the country. “I am looking forward to working closely with the board and the executive team to drive growth and be in a position to reach out to more people who can benefit from our services, regardless of where they live or the timing in their cancer journey" Penny is co-chair of the British Society for Integrative Oncology with the vision to make integrative oncology practice mainstream in the NHS. With 18 years’ experience in clinical and managerial roles in the NHS as well as leadership experience in the private healthcare sector, Penny is committed to enabling equitable access to care and healthcare excellence. Jon Green is a former NHS hospital chief executive and operational director who has worked within acute and community services in London, East Midlands and the East of England over the last decade and a half.

Jon said: “I am delighted to become part of the Penny Brohn UK family and join the board as a Trustee. Having worked in the NHS for many years I see and recognise the huge strain that a cancer diagnosis places on individuals and their families. “I firmly believe that cancer treatment and management is so much more than just the clinical intervention and is about the whole person. I joined Penny Brohn UK because I want to promote this as widely as possible.” During his NHS career Jon had a particular focus on innovation and the integration of services and building those services around the patient. Prior to the joining the NHS he had a 20-year career in the Royal Navy as a warfare officer where he had a wide range of roles at home and abroad including sea going, intelligence and media management appointments. More recently he has set up his own consultancy company providing support to other companies.

This has included delivering service redesign services within Health and Social Care on the Isle of Man, support to a company providing hospital care in patients own homes and working with an innovation start up on COVID safety solutions for the UK and abroad; Jon has also been providing executive coaching and corporate facilitation to clients. For more information see www.pennybrohn. org.uk

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Brand new Aardman Arts trail in Bedminster

Brand new art trail comes to Bedminster just in time for Christmas.

Painting began on the 8th of November where Alex created 11 murals in Bedminster, finally completing the trail on the 23rd. You will Netflix, Aardman and Upfest have partnered instantly recognise the whimsical to bring a very special Christmas mural trail to characters from the ‘purrfectly villainous Cat’ the streets of Bristol, to celebrate the launch to Robin Robin herself as you explore through of Aardman’s new animated short Robin the streets to get a glimpse of them all. You Robin. can start the trail on North Street at McColl’s Newsagents and end up at the Rope Walk on One of Bristol’s most celebrated street artists, Bedminster Parade, paying particular Alex Lucas, was hand selected by Aardman’s attention to the Upfest Gallery, Rhubarb Dan Ojari and Mikey Please to recreate the Jumble, Toyville, Viva La Mexican, The film’s characters in her own, unique style. Emporium and more along the way. They said this: “It’s been important to us to acknowledge the local craft and creative community within Bristol so what is more fitting to the city than a mural trail.”

Bristol has always been a city of creativity and community, and this new arts trail is another perfect example of this. With the release of Robin Robin coming to Netflix tomorrow, there’s no better time to head to Bedminster and check out the new paint. When you’re out trailing the murals, make sure you’re tagging @Aardman, @lucas_antics, @Netflix and @Upfest and use #RobinRobinBristol

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Whats on this month around Bristol Matilda JR

Visit Father Christmas

Date: Wed 1st Dec Description: Our Level 3 Musical Theatre Students proudly present Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical JR. This specially adapted production, based on the hit West End and Broadway musical, will take you through the magical and moving world of Matilda with a book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.

Date: 4th Dec

Venue: WISE Campus, New Rd, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8LP

OVER 30’s DANCE PARTY Date: 3rd Dec

At the superb BAWA Club, Filton on the FIRST Friday of Every MONTH….. It’s The Ideal Night Out For The 30 * 40 * 50 * 60 Age Range. Come And Dance Amongst A Friendly Lively Crowd. Enjoy A Good Mix of Music, Dancing Thru’ The Decades including some Motown and Soul Favourites. Club times are 9 ‘til 1 Last entry 11pm – Very Smart Casual – No Tee Shirts or Trainers & Gents are Required To Wear Collared Shirts. Dance adm £8 Come Early and Party The Night Away at this Popular Party.

We love Christmas at Avon Valley and ‘sleigh it’ when it comes to magical & immersive events! Especially when it comes to the most wonderful time of the year. Avon Valley is open this December to give you and your family a cool yule to remember! The park is open for a full day of festive fun but wait…. there’s myrrh! You can also book a timed session* to see Father Christmas! Venue: Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park

The Bristol Property Meet Date: Tuesday 9th Dec The property networking event for South West based property professionals. Venue: Online (Type the event in to Facebook) A Family Christmas

Date: 11th Dec

For more info call 07860 578708 or go to www.mingles.co.uk. FB Luv2mingle.

Family Christmas show suitable for all the family. Sat December 11th. Doors open 3pm. Why not come along and enjoy a family friendly christmas.

Venue: BAWA Club Soouthmead Rd, Bristol

Venue: The Rock Community Center

Romeo and Juliet by BOVTS

Cinderella

Date: 3rd Dec

Date:14th Dec - 31st Dec Polka Dot Pantomimes in association with the Redgrave Theatre presents the nations favourite pantomime full of magic, laughter, audience participation and spectacular surprises! Cinderella is suitable for the whole family and will include amazing special effects including REAL PONIES to escort Cinderella to the ball. So don’t wait till midnight to book your tickets as last year’s professional pantomime sold out! So book now - you’re sure to have a ball!

Venue: The Redgrave Theatre 2 Pecsival Rd Bristol 8

Venue:The Redgrave Theatre 2 Pecsival Rd Bristol

Catch Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers at the Redgrave Theatre this December and share in the joy of live theatre. Caught in the middle of a war between two feuding families, a pair of young lovers take shelter from a fractured world and hold each other close. They meet, they talk, they flirt, they touch. They fall in love. And then everything changes. Shakespeare’s enduring tale of first love continues to enthral audiences around the world. Romeo and Juliet is performed by graduating students from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, one of the UK’s most respected drama school

Christmas Bristol Social

Bridge Farm Christmas Fair

Date: 15th Dec Bristol Christmas Networking Social is on Wednesday 15th December at Horts. The venue is 7 minutes walk from the bus station & 15 minutes walk from temple meads.

Date: 18th Dec We are delighted to be hosting our very first Christmas Fair at Bridge Farm. Come and find local handmade and independent gifts and treats, sample delicious wholesome food in the café, listen to live music, enjoy some storytelling, make a Christmas wreath, drink some mulled cider, and see the latest developments at Bridge Farm. Let’s Gather, Share, Celebrate, Support & Nourish our Local Community Together! 10-4pm Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th December The community cafe will be serving soup & bread, snacks, cake, coffee, teas and mulled cider. Entry is a suggested £2 donation Stall bookings - 07510751029

Venue: Horts, 49 Broad Street SS Great Britain - A Victorian Christmas Date: 18th Dec A handful of the ‘Ragged Victorians’ will be joining the SS Great Britain crew, for a very Victorian Christmas! Step back in time to enjoy a wintry dockyard, which will be transformed with Christmas greenery and falling snow. Meet a cast of historic characters, including Father Christmas and guests from the Ragged Victorians living history group. Entry to this event is included in the general ticket admission to Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Tickets can be bought on the day or in advance from https://tickets. ssgreatbritain.org/.../viewItems.aspx..., where you can get a 5% discount. Venue: SS Great Britain Gas Ferry Road Bristol SW Art Collective Christmas Market @ The Cider Box Date: 18th Dec Daytime Christmas Market selling hand-made locally produced work by SW Art Collective at The Cider Box, Silverthorne Lane. There will be a Christmas fundraiser at the event to raise money for the next exhibition in the Spring. Ho ho ho, Merry Christmas! Set your calendars for Saturday 18th December for a day of Christmas, creativity and hot spiced cider. Drinks and snacks are available from the baror Butlr app all day long. Venue: Arch 5, Silverthorne Lane BS2 0QD Bristol

Venue: Bridge Farm, Glenfrome Rd, Bristol BS16 1BQ Create Club Holiday Camp

Date: 20th Dec

Create Club holiday camps give your child lot’s of creative fun, friendships and a fantastic way to enjoy their school holidays. Your child will be able to get creative, make awesome artworks and build wonderful friendships. There is a wide selection of fun art and crafts activities each day to inspire your child and help their creativity flow! Activities include painting, drawing sculpture, team building, creative challenges, model making, collage, slime making and more. Tickets portal.thecreationstation.franscape.io/ book-class/1245 Venue: Bedminster United reform Church Stanley St South BS3 3PG Bristol Jump the Pump Date: 23rd Dec Between 9pm and 10pm we will be hosting our 1st Jump the Pump Tickets cost £5 each You can WIN the chance to have 2 minutes behind our bar to pour as many pints as you can in this time. You keep what you pour All proceeds will be donated to Macmillan Venue: Black Castle, St Philips Causeway, Arno’s Vale, Bristol BS4 3BD 9

Bristol Sounds 2022 announces first three headliners Following a two-year hiatus, Bristol Sounds has announced its emotional return to the city’s much-loved harbourside. Today, organisers have revealed a spectacular first wave line-up, with headliners Noel Gallagher’s High-Flying Birds, Jungle and First Aid Kit all confirmed. Bringing a diverse bill of live music to the heart of the city, the open-air summer concert series will take place from Wednesday 22nd - Sunday 26th June2022, with tickets on sale this Friday. Event promoter Conal Dodds of Crosstown Concerts said: “We’re proud to announce the first acts from our strongest line-up yet for Bristol Sounds 2022. After a long period without live music, the 2022 event marks a new and exciting rebirth for our harbourside series. We're putting together a bill that represents the city's diverse musical tastes and heritage and bringing some great names to play in one of our best locations with the backdrop of Bristol's harbour. There are further great artists to be announced and we look forward to our best ever run of shows in Bristol! ”

Following an epic headline set at The Downs, Bristol in 2018, firm festival favourites Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds will top the bill on Wednesday 22nd June. Bristol Sounds 2022 is confirmed as one of Noel Gallagher’s only UK performances for next year. Supporting will be Australian hi tempo dance outfit Confidence Man. Assured to get Bristol dancing, British electronic duo, Jungle will headline on Saturday 25th June. Their new album ‘Loving In Stereo’, is a dynamic disco record for the post social distancing age, with a dancefloor-igniting celebration of all the things that make music irresistibly fun. The show with be the first time Bristol Sounds has had an all-afternoon event, with gates opening at 2pm and a full supporting bill still to be announced. Sunday 26th June welcomes Swedish Soderberg sisters First Aid Kit, headlining their biggest ever show in the south west. Johanna and Klara will return with a new album in 2022. Special guest will be breakthrough artist and BBC Radio 6 Music favourite Katy J Pearson. The Bristol singer’s popularity has soared over the last 12 months, following the release of her critically-acclaimed debut album, ‘Return’.

Tickets will go on sale at 9am on Friday November 26th 2021 at www.seetickets. com. JUNE 22ND 2022 Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds + guests Confidence Man https://www.seetickets. com/event/bristol-soundsnoel-gallagher-s-high-flyingbirds/canons-marsh-amphitheatre/2155982 JUNE 25TH 2022 Jungle + special guests. https://www.seetickets.com/ event/bristol-sounds-jungle/ canons-marsh-amphitheatre/2155983 JUNE 26TH 2022 First Aid Kit + guest Katy J Pearson https://www. seetickets.com/event/ bristol-sounds-first-aid-kit/ canons-marsh-amphitheatre/2155986 To keep up to date with the latest information and news on Bristol Sounds 2022 pleasevisit www.crosstownconcerts.com and www.facebook.com/bristolsoundsofficial or follow @Bristol_Sounds @Crosstown_live on Twitter and @bristolsounds @crosstownconcerts on Instagram. The hashtag for this year’s event will be #BristolSounds2022

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History of the mince pie

By Peter Abraham

Christmas, food is the best food. I think that goes beyond my humble opinion and is in fact, FACT! It’s full of stodgy, warm, sugary, cosy goodness that’s incredibly bad for your body but tremendously good for your soul. My favourite Yuletide morsel has to be the humble mince pie. I never used to like them I’ll be honest. I did find them a bit too rich. But now I can’t get enough of them. (I blame the butcher in Marshfield). But where did it all begin for this sweet and savoury snack? During Stuart and Georgian times, in the UK mince pies where a status symbol. Rich aristocrats gorged on the delights and liked to show off their wealth by having an assortment of differently shaped pies to impress their noble friends. Having different pies meant that you where mdisgustingly rich and you could afford the best pastry cooks in the land.

Well, mince pies like Christmas puddings where originally filled with meat! Lamb, was the main contender rather than dried fruit, nuts and spices that you find in them today. Their shape comes from what bakers thought the manger looked like that Jesus slept in. (Don’t worry this isn’t a sermon I promise you!). The tops of the pies represented the swaddling clothing that he was wrapped in. Sometimes the more adventurous and skilled baker fashioned an edible effigy of the infant Christ to complete the design. 12

A custom from the Middle Ages says, that if you eat a mince pie every day from Christmas to Twelfth Night you will have happiness for the next year. I beg to differ. I argue that you will either end up with diabetes, incredibly fat or even dead! As always dear reader, everything in moderation. However, that rule usually goes out the window in my house during Christmas time. I think it’s the one time of year when we can dispense with the dietary platitudes and throw caution to the wind and enjoy ourselves. It’s only once a year so why not make it a good one?

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NEW CLINIC FOR BRISTOL CENTRE FOR REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE

A new state-of-the-art fertility and IVF clinic serving the South West is set to open soon at Aztec West, Bristol. The Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine (BCRM) will move from its current premises at Southmead Hospital into the new larger premises with completely upgraded facilities at the beginning of the New Year. The clinic will continue to treat both NHS and private patients and will provide the latest technology laboratories, equipment, and treatment rooms for those undergoing IVF and other fertility treatments.

With more energy-efficient features and ultra-modern theatres to provide best-inclass care, the larger upgraded new clinic will provide better privacy for patients, plus ample parking and more comfortable surroundings for both patients and staff. The improved facilities will enable BCRM’s internationally recognised specialists to advise and support a greater number of people with IVF and ICSI treatment, IUI treatment, use of donor sperm, egg donation, frozen embryo transfer and complex treatments including fertility surgery.

Purpose-built, with the latest testing equipment to enable diagnosis of both female and male fertility problems, and with cutting-edge laboratories for testing and research, the space will also allow more teaching, training and research to take place. Over 60 staff will be employed at the centre including specialist embryologists, gynaecologists, andrologists, nurses, sonographers, patient advisors and dedicated administrative staff. The team, which includes world-leading fertility experts and consultants who also work for the NHS, will remain the same – plus some new additions - and are enthusiastic about the move. The new clinic is close to the motorway network with good transport links which will make it more accessible to existing patients and people throughout the region and beyond. BCRM is regulated by the HFEA, has consistently had some of the highest success rates in the country, is the longest-established fertility clinic in Bristol and will continue to provide both private and NHS treatment. All current patients have been advised of the move and further details are available by emailing Quality@BCRM.clinic or at www.fertilitybristol.com

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Christmas Adventures invites Bristol to explore the city this festive season Christmas Adventures, Bristol’s festive light trail launches on 1st December 2021, lighting up iconic buildings until the 28th December with a selection of the jolliest Christmas lyrics and phrases. On 17th November, the first five buildings were lit with iconic lyrics and sayings including Bristol’s own ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing!’ on Bristol Beacon, the reappearance of ‘Driving Home For Christmas’ on the whale mural on Park Row, ‘Fa la la la la la la la la’ on St George’s Bristol, ‘Happy Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight!’ on The Premier Inn and ‘Now bring us some Figgy Pudding’ on Waitrose in The Triangle. The project, created by Bristol City Centre BID and Redcliffe & Temple BID, will light up buildings across the city from Arnolfini and Finzel’s Reach, to Cabot Circus and Park Row. Expect glowing building frontages, famous song lyrics and Christmas movie quotes emerging across the city centre. The project is part of Bristol City Centre BID’s #LoveBristol campaign which promotes the recovery of the city, bringing together 100s of businesses to help create the festive trail. New to this year is the partnership with Redcliffe and Temple BID, adding many new and iconic locations to the attraction. Keith Rundle, Director of BIDs explains; “As we enter the festive period, we invite all Bristolians to come into the city centre to explore areas they might not usually visit. This trail provides a great opportunity to shop, eat, drink and make merry in the many brilliant and welcoming businesses. 18

So head out into the city and discover a fabulous trail of Christmas projections for everyone to enjoy. It’s a free, healthy outdoor experience for family, friends, which also brings added custom to our many local businesses.” There will be a downloadable trail map available online on the BID websites. The projections will begin to appear from 17th November on Park Street, Queens Road and around the city centre, with further sites at Cabot Circus and Redcliffe joining on 24th November. The full festive trail launches on 1st December when Harbourside and Old City projections are switched on, and the Christmas Adventures will stay in place until 28th December. Bristol City Centre BID Christmas lights will also be lit from the 15th November with over a mile of festive lighting and 25,000 LEDs, and new lights will adorn Park Street, and College Green. The displays also include King Street, Corn Street, Broadmead and Bristol Shopping Quarter. It will also launch “Something Special from Somewhere Special” Christmas shopping Mondays on 15th and 29th November and 13th December with special offers from retailers and restaurants. Keep an eye out across social channels including those from Visit Bristol, Bristol City Centre BID and Redcliffe & Temple BID for more information and the full list of Christmas Adventures locations. https://bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk/project/ christmas-adventures-in-bristol/.

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Small talk isn’t dead!

•

Over two-thirds of Brits are more likely to tip a sociable cabbie

•

Almost two-thirds said they would tip more for a longer/late-night journey

•

Drivers who help with luggage are the most likely to receive a generous tip

•

The average tipping amount in British cabs is £3.22

•

Nearly 1 in 5 said they would pay more than £5 for a chatty driver

Taxi apps might have ‘silent ride’ options, but Brits do still prefer a chatty taxi driver, a new survey finds. The survey commissioned by The Taxi Centre found that while less than half of Brits (46 per cent) say they tip their taxi driver for any journey, 66 per cent said they are more likely to tip their cabbie if they are sociable.

Of those who tipped, cash is still king for the taxi community with 73 per cent of people saying they tipped in cash versus just 21 per cent tipping online or on an app.

Conversely, nearly half (46 per cent) said they would tip drivers more often if it was easier to tip, such as via contactless payment, suggesting taxi tipping may be in need of a Of those 66 per cent, one quarter (25 per cent) digital re-brand along with the service. said they are much more likely to tip if they have good chat. Only 5 per cent said they never tip taxi drivers and just 2 per cent said they are less likely to Almost two thirds (65 per cent) in the Taxi tip a sociable driver. Centre survey agree that they are more likely to tip a taxi driver for a longer journey (20 Reasons for not tipping a taxi drivers minutes or more) and/or one that is late at included: taxis are too expensive as it is (41 night. per cent), it’s their job (32 per cent), and riders don’t think they take long enough journeys to Generally, riders agree with taxi drivers justify a tip (24 per cent). charging a premium rate for late-night journeys or during peak times (39 per cent). A little over one-third (31 per cent) disagrees As for what would encourage Brits to tip more with the premium charges based on these in general, almost half (48 per cent) said they factors. would front extra cash if their driver helped with their luggage. This was followed by As for how much Brits are likely to pay their conscientious driving (36 per cent) and cabbie, the average tipping amount among the offering to pick up a friend on the way (33 per 2,000 survey participants was £3.22. Nearly cent). a fifth (18 per cent) said they would tip up to a fiver, while 19 per cent said they would be happy to pay £5 or more. 20

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Stockhill Wood Walkies Stockhill Wood is a great, well looked after coniferous woodland within the Mendip Hills and popular amongst dog walkers. There’s a free car park on site, from there, you can take a few different routes to explore the woods. There are 2 main routes that are signposted, the purple route is the All Ability Trail (600m) and the green one is the Easy Going Trail (0.7 miles). The all ability route is dedicated to Ian McArdle of the Cheddar Valley Access Group. He was a disabled man who loved Stockhill Forest and the Priddy Mineries opposite and inspired the trail’s creation. However, there are many more trails to discover here! The woods are exceptionally well looked after, with wide paths, picnic areas and benches to perch on. It’s a very peaceful walk in a large area, so you may be walking for a little while before you and your pup see anyone else, even if the car park is packed when you arrive. Stockhill Wood is a truly great dog walk for any time of year, it’s magical when it snows (if you can get there!), glorious in spring when the wildflower fields start coming to life and, of course, it’s amazing in autumn with the leaves covering the ground. In winter, the place is still so green with a layer of moss covering much of the woodland floor. Make sure you take wellies in winter, as it can get very muddy! Adjacent to the woodland on its western side (across a minor road) is Priddy Mineries, a nature reserve of the Somerset Wildlife Trust. It has pools of water, which are brilliant for dogs that love a swim. Even though there are signs that indicate horses shouldn’t walk here, some riders still do take their horses here, so keep an ear out in case your pooch is scared of horses. There aren’t a lot of poo bins here, I only found one in the car park, so please stick and flick or take your rubbish with you until you can dispose of it in a bin.

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Bristolian publishes first crime thriller If you’re not sure what to buy the book-lover in your life for Christmas, why not consider ‘Wicked Tongue’, written by Bristolian (and frequent Direct Local contributor) Darren Bane. Although it is the eighth title he has published since 2014, it’s his first crime novel. Within the first weeks of publication, almost every review has awarded it five stars. Darren drew on his experiences of spending 12 years working as a journalist and a further 12 years working in the press office at Avon & Somerset Police to give ‘Wicked Tongue’ a realistic tone. Darren describes it as a “character-driven crime thriller” set in an un-named seaside town which is, of course, very much based on Weston-super-Mare, where he has lived for almost 30 years. He explained the story. “A heartbroken man brands his mother a ‘black widow’ at the inquest into the death of his father, who took his own life. “A few days later, his mother is found dead. The post mortem reveals that she died of fright, setting tongues wagging. “Was she killed in retaliation for her husband’s suicide, or is this the start of a serial killing spree?” Darren has previously published one children’s book, a non-fiction book about the first six months in the life of his son who was born three months early, a compilation of imponderable questions, and three full-length comedy novels. So what prompted him to write something considerably darker? “I actually wrote the first three chapters many years ago,” he said. “But I didn’t think I had it in me to complete a crime thriller. I thought it might be too obvious who the killer was, so I just let those chapters collect dust.

“I offered to proof-read a crime novel, Kill List, by my friend Vicki FitzGerald. But I ended up not just checking the grammar and spelling, but making some suggestions about the plot here and there, and suggesting some dialogue. “She liked my ideas and said I should try writing a crime thriller, so I shared those three chapters I had written so long ago. Her response was that I simply had to write the rest, so I did. “I’ve been absolutely delighted with the positive response, and quite a few readers have said I managed to keep them guessing about the identity of the killer, which is very satisfying. “Several people have now suggested I write another thriller, so I’m thinking about it, although I’ve got a couple more comedy novels to finish first.” ‘Wicked Tongue’ is available in paperback and digital formats from many on-line booksellers. Full details can be found on his website, www.darrenbane.co.uk

Warning to self-employed workers who claimed SEISS grant HMRC has updated its warning to workers who claimed a grant through the SelfEmployment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) last year.

You must also tell HMRC if you:

SEISS was designed to support self-employed workers whose business was affected throughout the pandemic.

•

The UK Government has paid out more than 25.2 billion to 2.9 million workers since the scheme launched in May last year.

Amended any of your tax returns on or after March 3, 2021 in a way which means you’re no longer eligible or are entitled to a lower fourth or fifth grant than you received

•

The final window for applications closed on September 30 with figures estimating 9.1 million grants have been claimed by self-employed workers.

Made a mistake reporting your turnover in your claim for the fifth grant which means you are entitled to a lower grant than you received

•

Have received a letter from HMRC that says you need to pay back some or all of a grant

However, HMRC has now issued new guidance to warn that some or all of the SEISS grant may need to be paid back - or you may face a penalty. The update on GOV.UK advises: “If you’ve received a letter from HMRC you may need to pay back some or all of the grant.” SEISS repayments The advice states you must tell HMRC if, when you made the claim, you were not eligible for the grant.

Received more than HMRC said you were entitled to

Deadline of when you must inform HMRC In most cases, if you’re not eligible and have to pay the grant back, you must tell HMRC within 90 days of receiving the payment. For the fourth and fifth grants the rules for when to tell HMRC are different if amending your return affects your eligibility or grant amount.

For example:

You must tell HMRC if there is an amendment to any of your tax returns on or after March 3, 2021 which either:

•

For the first or second grant, your business was not adversely affected

•

Lowers the amount of fourth or fifth grant you were eligible for

•

For the third, fourth or fifth grant, your business had not been impacted by reduced activity, capacity or demand or inability to trade in the relevant periods

•

Causes you to no longer be eligible for the fourth or fifth grant If your return has been amended before claiming your grant, you must tell HMRC.

•

You did not intend to continue to trade

• 26

You have incorporated your business

If your return has been amended after receiving your grant, you must tell HMRC within 90 days of making the amendment.

If you do not tell HMRC, they will get in touch with you to recover the grant and you may also have to pay a penalty - find more information on how they will recover your overpaid grant on GOV.UK here.

You can also tell HMRC if you want to voluntarily pay back some or all of the grant you received - you can do this at any time.

You do not have to tell HMRC if the grant amount:

•

Government Gateway user ID and password that you used when you made your claim

•

Grant claim reference - you’ll find this in the online service or on your copy of the grant claim

•

Self Assessment Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number - if you do not have this find out how to get your lost UTR here

•

You are eligible for has lowered by £100 or less

•

Was £100 or less

If you are not sure, you should still tell HMRC about the amendment using the online form here. You need to tell HMRC if you: •

Made a mistake reporting your turnover in your claim which means you are entitled to a lower grant than you received

•

Later realise you should have reported a different turnover figure in your claim which means you are entitled to a lower grant than you received

To do this, you will need your:

How you can pay back HMRC The process is different depending on why you need to pay the grant back, however, there is a service available on the GOV.UK website which allows you to check whether you need to tell HMRC and pay back some or all of a grant. Find out more on the GOV.UK website..

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Ten ways to cut your food waste to help save the planet We throw away 7 million tonnes of food and drink from our homes every year, much of which could have been eaten. It's costing us £12.5bn a year and is bad for the environment too. Here is 10 top tips for reducing food waste. 1. Check your fridge temperature It should be between 0-5C. Food, especially milk, will go off much quicker if it’s warmer. 2. Use your fridge wisely Some foods keep better outside the fridge. This includes bread (keep it in a cool dark place like a bread bin or cupboard), bananas, pineapples, potatoes and onions. 3. Love your list Make a shopping list (the easiest way is to keep it in the kitchen and add to it as you think of things) and stick to it when you go shopping. Plan ahead and shop with specific meals in mind. 4. Water your veg Keep the stems of vegetables such as broccoli, celery and asparagus in water to help them stay fresh and crisp. 5. Freeze your 5 a day Got fresh fruit and veg that you can’t use in time? Why not freeze them? Some fruit and veg will lose their texture when frozen – you can deal with this by freezing them pureed or stewed. This applies to tomatoes (use the puree for pasta dishes or pizza), strawberries (use the puree in smoothies or as a sauce for other fresh fruit) and apples (use stewed apple on your porridge or muesli, or as the base for a fruit crumble).

6. …and freeze leftovers Many leftovers and chilled convenience meals freeze well too. If you’ve made something like pasta or rice with a sauce, freezing the sauce separately will work better. 7. Measure your portions Reduce waste by cooking only the amount you need. Measuring takes away the guesswork and makes it more likely you’ll get the right amount. 8. Sauces and dips Lots of leftovers can be made into sauces or dips. If you’ve got leftover beans or pulses (either that you’ve cooked yourself or from a tin), mash or blend with some garlic, lemon juice and herbs for a hummus-style dip (don’t try this with baked beans, unless you rinse them thoroughly first). Slightly over-ripe avocados are great for guacamole, and tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers which need using can go into home-made salsa. 9. Freeze dairy products Semi-skimmed and skimmed milk freeze better than whole. If it separates once defrosted, just give it a good shake. Hard cheese also freezes well – cut it into smaller portions, or grate some ready to use later. 10. Revive past-it bread Bread rolls past their best? Put them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up again. You can also make stale bread into breadcrumbs - either mix them with herbs and onions as a stuffing for chicken or to top baked fish, or freeze the breadcrumbs for later use. Loaves of bread freeze well too. If you’re freezing a loaf or rolls from an in-store bakery, transfer into a freezer bag for better results rather than just freezing it in the packaging it comes in.

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MUST HAVE TOYS THIS CHRISTMAS Barbie Doctor Doll £25

Squishmallows Antonella the Hot Pink Cheetah Soft Toy £44.99

Lego Party Llama BeatBox £18 Magic Mixes Magical Misting Cauldron £66.99

PAW Patrol Marshall’s Deluxe Transforming Fire Engine £16

GraviTrax PRO Starter Set £64.99

WHATS ON AT YOUR LOCAL CINEMA House of Gucci is inspired by the shocking true story of the family empire behind the Italian fashion house of Gucci. Spanning three decades of love, betrayal, decadence, revenge, and ultimately murder, we see what a name means, what it’s worth, and how far a family will go for control.

HOUSE OF GUCCI

Directed by Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg, from a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award® winner Tony Kushner, “West Side Story” tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City

WEST SIDE STORY Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto,” is the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The all-new original film features the voice of Stephanie Beatriz as Mirabel, an ordinary 15-year-old who’s struggling to find her place in her family. “Mirabel is a really funny, loving character who also deeply yearns for something more,” says Beatriz. “She’s also not afraid to stand up for what she knows is right—something I love and relate to very much.”

ENCANTO

Two Bristol Charities Receive Boost This Winter

Two Bristol-based charities have been accepted onto the Big Give Christmas Challenge this year, which will see public donations doubled between 30th November – 7th December 2021, giving the people of Bristol a chance to make a huge difference in their local communities during the festive period.

FareShare South West and Bristol Hospitality Network are the two successful applicants to the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2021: a campaign founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir Alec Reed CBE and one that has raised millions of pounds for thousands of charity projects since it launched on the Big Give in 2008. With this time of year associated with giving, and with the charities representing worthwhile causes, here’s a little more about what they do in case you are looking to make a charity donation that will have double the impact: FareShare South West FareShare South West tackles food insecurity and hunger across Bristol and the wider South West and does this by simultaneously tackling food waste. FareShare South West normally takes in excess of 500 tonnes of in-date, good quality surplus food (deemed surplus for reasons ranging from inaccurate demand forecasting, packaging errors, damage in transit or retailer rejections) each year and redistributes it to over 300 schools, charities, and community groups across the South West. 32

These charities provide meals as part of their services to people in need – such as children’s breakfast clubs, day clubs for older people, domestic violence refuges, homeless shelters and drug and alcohol rehab units. However, since March 2020, the charity has redistributed significantly more food to meet need – including enough food for 6 million meals between March 2020 – 2021. In response to what is already emerging as a difficult winter – considering spiraling energy bills, the increasing cost of food and cuts to universal credit – FareShare South West launched FoodStock 2021. This emergency winter operation aims to provide a significant uplift in food reaching communities by building a stockpile of additional ambient food with the funds and infrastructure to deliver it in the coming two months. Says CEO of FareShare South West, Julian Mines: “The money raised via the Big Give Christmas Challenge will allow FoodStock 2021 to have even greater impact that we had first planned, and one that in the context of the challenges vulnerable individuals face this winter is absolutely vital. This operation has already proved more challenging that we anticipated, due to the disruption in food supply chains and the HGV driver crisis, which have affected our ability to get food into the warehouse. This has driven up the logistical costs of the operation but we are continuing to work with local and national food suppliers to ensure we have the quantities of food we need to get enough food for 1 million meals out to those who need in most in the next two months. We are also proud that the operation will include a food parcel packing element, which means food can also go out to smaller charities and organisations who don’t have the infrastructure to create food parcels for their end users.”

Donations: https://donate.thebiggive.org.uk/ campaign/a056900001txPCSAA2 Bristol Hospitality Network Bristol Hospitality Network (BHN) extends solidarity to people in the city who are seeking asylum and experiencing destitution. Destitution means going without the basic essentials most of us take for granted – being able to eat, stay safe, warm and dry. The current rules of the UK asylum system mean it’s difficult for some people to provide the evidence they need for a successful asylum claim. Because of this, they may be refused help by the state, despite their genuine need. When this happens, people are left with no access to work, no financial support, and no access to accommodation. One of the ways BHN offers support is through a Solidarity Fund. Anyone who is currently hosted by BHN, living in our accommodation or part of our host network, becomes one of our members. This is around 30 people at any one time. The Solidarity Fund goes directly to each and every one of members, to help relieve financial hardship. We aim to give £20 every week to support our members’ needs - whether that’s clothing, food, transport, or other essentials.

All money raised through the Big Give Christmas Challenge this year will go directly to this fund. BHN’s Director of Operations, Rachael Bee, says: “During the pandemic, when times were really very tough for our members, we committed to giving £20 a week in solidarity to make sure everyone had enough funds to support themselves. We want to continue this into the new year and beyond, as we see the continued pressures our members are facing, and how much difference the Solidarity Fund can make. What's great about the fund is that members can spend it on the things they need the most, that will make the most difference. All donations given this Christmas will help us to keep the fund running in 2022, and every gift directly supports support people's health and wellbeing." Donations: https://donate.thebiggive.org.uk/ campaign/a056900001tyx7lAAA To donate and have their donation doubled, individuals must visit their chosen charity’s ‘Big Give Campaign Page’ between 30th November – 7th December 2021. More information about the campaign can be found here: https://www.thebiggive.org.uk/s/ christmas-challenge

Your Garden In December Most gardeners tend to think that everything in the garden is dormant in December. While this does tend to be the case there are still crops, plants and wildlife to protect from any winter frosts. The lawn will need to be kept clear of any remaining leaves and patio containers will need raising to avoid them sitting in the wet. The beginning of the month, however, will probably be dedicated to decorating the Christmas tree. For many people this is an essential part of their festive traditions and there’s nothing quite like a real Christmas tree to decorate a room and fill the home with that nostalgic seasonal aroma...

CHOOSING A CHRISTMAS TREE There are several types of Christmas tree to choose from and if you’ve never had one before it can be hard to decide which will be best. Nordmann Fir - this is the top choice for real indoor Christmas trees and has excellent needle retention. The lush, glossy, rich green needles are soft and dense making it easy to decorate and the strong branches will support your lights and decorations to create a stunning display. They quite often have a wide base, making a perfect place to hide presents! 34

Norway Spruce - the ‘traditional’ Christmas tree. Strong branches make for easy decorating, although the needles can tend to be fairly sharp. If you are choosing this tree it is best kept outside for as long as possible before bringing it into a cool room to help with needle retention. Potted/pot Grown Trees Most people buy cut Christmas trees, but it is possible to buy ‘potted’ or ‘pot grown’ trees. If you want to keep your tree after Christmas to pot on or plant in the garden always ask for a pot-grown tree. Potted Christmas trees have usually been grown in the ground and then dug up and potted with a few roots.

LOOKING GOOD THIS MONTH.. MAHONIA They generally won’t last much longer than a well cared for cut tree, and usually won’t establish in the garden afterwards. Pot grown trees have been grown in the pot and so many are more likely to be successful for growing on from year to year.

Why should you plant them? Striking winter foliage, fragrant lily-of-thevalley aroma and beautiful yellow blooms - it’s not difficult to see why the Mahonia is such a well-respected addition to a winter garden. How should you plant them? Mahonia are very low maintenance shrubs but a small amount of attention will ensure that they perform to the best of their abilities - an annual prune is sufficient to keep them in check. By nature they are adapted to woodland conditions so plant in partial to full shade however they will grow well in a variety of soil conditions including clay, chalk and even sand.

DECEMBER HOROSCOPES Aquarius Jan 20-Feb 18 Something you have been putting aside needs to be dealt with. The sooner you do this the better things will be for you. Remember that in any situation you have a strong enough character that you will be able to deal with most things. If you have hold-ups and obstacles, check that you are not causing these yourself. Keywords strength and endurance

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 Looks like changes are on the way for you. It may be a new venture or career. You may be feeling a bit restless at the moment., May be time to reflect aon nd some of the things you would like to achieve.You may find people keep wanting to give you their problems, but do not let yourself get involved in gossip or conflict. Keywords changes and reflection.

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Meeting people is quite prominent this month, both in social and other groups and gatherings.If something needs to be said or sorted now is a good time to do it. It may be a time to reflect and for decisions. Keywords. Gatherings and decisions

Gemini May 21 - June 20 You may be feeling that things are being held up for you, or that your vitality levels are low. Spring is just around the corner and soon your energy and yourself will be feeling back to normal. If there is something complicated in your life at the moment, you will soon be able to unravel it and and let it go. Don’t be too hard on yourself, remember you can achieve more than you think. Keywords. Letting go..

Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19 If you are involved in meetings at this time they may not run as smoothly as you would like If the situation feels difficult remember to keep calm. You may also feel time for spring cleaning, both on the physical, and emotional levels. Keywords. Calm and clearing

Cancer June 21 - July 22 Relationships are a high point this month, as well as possible. A small refresh in the home. If something is a bit hard going at the moment, you will find that you will have the strength and endurance to go through this with relatively plain sailing. Keywords opportunities and relationships

Leo July 23 - Aug 22 This month pay attention to your intuition especially in regarding to situations with other people.You may need to step back from something and try and see it from a different perspective In all situations this month try and keep calm and balanced. Keywords. Intuition and balance

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22 You may be at a point where a knew interest hobby or some kind of study is on your mind. This could lead to opportunities in many directions. Just remember anything you want to achieve may involve some kind of challenges. Keywords challenges and opportunities.

Libra Sept 23 - Oct 22 Any obstacles that have been in your way look likely to be on their way out. You may have been feeling a bit stuck in your ways of late, this could well be about to change. It may be time to think of having a break, even if it’s just for a day or so. Keywords change and relaxation

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 It may be that time of year to go through some paperwork and to change some things that you have been putting off. A good time now for clearing and getting rid of things you don’t need both physically and emotionally. Try to be aware of being sensitive to other’s needs. Keywords: Clearing and sensitivity

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 This month is just the right time to start sorting other things out you have been putting off. You may feel I need to have a revamp in your home, this may also involve a clearing for yourself emotionally. Should be a chance to get rid of all those paperwork issues too. Keywords clearing and cleansing

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 At this time any hold-ups you have had are going to be easing. It would be good to listen more than talk at this time.Then may be things will be of value to you. Sensitivity and flexibility is something for you to be aware of this month. keywords: Listen and sensitivity

Disclaimer This zodiac is for entertainment purposes only please do not take the predictions seriously Marie take no responsibility for your actions

Take a break and try to solve theses puzzles Here are this weeks puzzles designed to test your mental skills during your lunch break or after tea. Click the download symbol below to download our puzzles to your phone or computer and complete at your own leisure. The answers will be published on our website every Thursday afternoon. Good luck!

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9 differences between these two pictures. Are your eyes good enough to see them all?

North Somerset Magazine December 2021

Articles inside

Your garden

A new state-of-the-art fertility clinic

Two Bristol charities

Small talk is not dead

Brand new art trail comes to Bedminster

Leading integrative cancer charity

Bristol Sounds 2022

Bristolian publishes first crime thriller

Whats on this month