NORTH SOMERSET MAGAZINE
JANUARY 2022
H
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL THINGS ELECTRICAL
ME ADDITIONS
HOUSE CLEARANCE
07967or596589 07814 583723
EMC
3 YEAR GUARANTEE
■ ■
Professional
Affordable
Trustworthy
Registered Waste Carrier
www.homeadditions.org.uk
■ ■ ■ ■
■ New Installations EICR’s ■ Additional Points Added Rewires ■ LED Lighting Upgrades PAT Testing Fault Finding 0117 422 7222 Emergency Lighting info@emcbristol.co.uk Smoke Detection Systems www.emcbristol.co.uk 1
2
This Month..
The team
4. De-clutter for 2022 6. To Good To Go 12. Best way to return unwanted Christmas gifts 14. Recipe of the month 18. Veganuary 20. Curry and conversation 22. Tips for achieving your 2022 goals 24. Sales Boom 26. Stunning DIY garden room kits 32. This months movies 36. Your garden 38. Horoscopes 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.
Only £895 for a fully fitted electric door.
@directlocal
EDITOR Michael Davies Journalist Lisa Davies PROOF READER Elisabeth Davies 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..
APPROVED
Gotta get a Garolla.
Garolla garage doors are strong and solidly built. They’re made to measure in our own UK factories. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically taking up only 8 inches inside your garage. Our expert installers will fit your new door and take away the old one so there’s no mess. Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up for free!
GOTTA GET A GAROLLA NOW ONLY
£895
CALL US TODAY
WAS £1,354 INC VAT
0117 369 0177
WHAT’S INCLUDED : FREE MEASURING & FITTING
MOBILE
TWO REMOTE CONTROLS ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS FREE DISPOSAL OF OLD DOOR
Offer valid for openings up to 2.6m wide & inc: 2 remote controls, 55mm white slats, internal manual override.
07537 149 128
www.garolla.co.uk
3
De-clutter for 2022 So you have survived Christmas and are now thinking: ‘ Where am I going to put all this stuff?” it happens every year (and throughout). We find ourselves submerged in gifts, and whilst it is lovely to receive them, there is only so much space in the house! You have two choices I guess, buy a bigger house or maybe it’s time to de-clutter! Mike at Direct Local explains. I find it hard to work when there is a lot of clutter around me. I resort to having a good clear up before I can channel my mind and get things achieved. At the same time, it is not always as easy as it sounds as we all get attached to our belongings. With this in mind, I thought I would try to help those of you who would like it. Once you have cleared the clutter, what you have remaining are the essential elements, which tend to be more beautiful and more elegant. 1.Make a list As with many tasks, it is usually easier to start with a plan. Write down all the rooms that you would like to work on and then start one area at a time. 2.What doesn’t have a function? This does take a certain amount of honesty, and is sometimes easier to do with someone else’s possessions, but, if you are doing this on your own, a little ruthlessness is called for. We all have sentimentality towards certain items, and hold onto others ‘just in case’. 3.De-clutter your wardrobe Anything that attains a hole is binned immediately. Effectively, as we get older our size and style changes as our skin and hair colour and some things just don’t work anymore. Whites don’t always stay as white as they once were, and neither does black. Whilst it is lovely to have summer beach clothes – how many do we need? Likewise, a pair of shoes that have never been worn because we don’t have the rest of the outfit to go with them possibly could find a better home.
4
A great way to do this is to turn all your hangers the wrong way, have a look in six months time which items haven’t been worn – the likelihood is that they will still be unworn six months later. 4.Dvds, Cds, Vhs, Cassettes In this digital age, so many of the above are now just not used and they can take up vast amounts of space – how often do you use them? I have found that I now upload all of my Cds to my Mac and play them through my TV, on my phone, in the car, on my ipad etc. as such, I bundled up all of my Dvds as Christmas gifts. The same unfortunately goes books. 5.Take a photo Sometimes, all we need is a reminder of something that we no longer need and, as such, a photograph of that chipped vase with some lovely flowers is all we require to allow ourselves to part with something we can no longer house. 6.The kitchen Now there is a special room, which always seem to harbour every gadget, dish and mug that we would possibly house. If you have a dishwasher, I would imagine that even you are surprised by the number of mugs you now have. I shall tell you, that if you have less mugs, it is amazing how much quicker it is to empty the dishwasher. Have you held onto the roasting tins that come with the last cooker you owned?
7.Retain, Recycle, Remove As you start to approach this mammoth task, you could try to separate into three criteria. Items you want to retain: items you could sell on eBay or donate to charity: and items that need disposing of in the bin. You may be surprised how much money you could raise by selling a few items that you really don’t want. This goes for clothing, as well as Cds, Dvds, furniture and even jewellery. You may even be able to have a holiday if you have really good clear out! And you can even get someone to do the hard work for you. For a fee.
Over a period of time, you would be surprised by the space that you reclaim. It may seem daunting; but having a clear-out can benefit not just your home, but also your 8.Five Item Rule mind. Psychologists have found that women If the above seems daunting, how about with cluttered homes have higher levels of looking at it in a far gentler way. Say, every cortisol – the stress hormone associated with time you clean or tidy the house, you select chronic fatigue, post traumatic stress just five items that you no longer need and set disorder, and higher risk of mortality. A recent them aside in a box or bag, or the boot of your study also showed that physical clutter car ready for you to drop off when your next affects people’s ability to focus, process passing a charity shop? information, and be productive – so jilting the junk could be just the energy boost you need. What are you waiting for?
0117 923 5394
“Tax doesn’t have to be taxing!” Let TSA take the stress away!
Accounting, book-keeping, and advice tailored to fit your business Email: enquiries@tsabusinessadvisors.co.uk 124 Gloucester Rd, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5BP
www.tsabusinessadvisors.co.uk
SELF ASSESSMENT DEADLINE IS COMING
JAN 31 ARE YOU UP TO DATE?
5
Too Good To Go App: What’s in our mystery bag?
Where can you find the TooGoodToGo app?
I’m a big fan of doing what you can to cut food waste. Reducing food waste helps to save money, When I learned about the TooGoodToGo app.
You can download this app, for free, from the Apple store and Google Play store, as it is available on both Apple phones and Android devices.
I knew I would be a big fan! I downloaded it and gave it a go! The concept of the app is simple; you can purchase a magic bag (mystery bag!) from retailers in your local areas, for a low fee. For as little as £2£3 you can get £8+ worth of produce that are nearing the end of their shelf life and would likely otherwise go to waste, by being thrown in the bin. One of the first ever magic bags that I reserved was from Marks & Spencers, within a local garage, and the quality was fantastic! Since then I’ve purchased at least 1 magic bag from most retailers in Bristol and I’m going to share a little more about the app, how to use it, how to get a magic bag when they always display sold out and what the best times are to grab a magic bag. The total value was around £13-£14 and I paid just £4. The items were all still fresh and that butter chicken with the potato crush was absolutely delicious! 6
How does TooGoodToGo work?
You download the app, for free, then you set your location (either using location services or a map if you’re wanting to look at other areas you may be travelling to) and you can see all of the retailers in your area.
Select browse and then you can use a variety of filters to find options, things such as ‘Local Deli ’, specific categories of food, diet preferences, collection time frames and more. It’s really easy to use this, especially if you’re going to be in a particular part of a Bristol or any other city at a set time. What you do in store to collect your magic bag: When you arrive in store you just let them know you’re there to collect a magic bag, show off your collection code, they’ll ask you to swipe to confirm collection and then hand your magic bag over to you. It’s really simple and usually just takes a couple of minutes.
LOOKING TO MAKE FRIENDS IN THE AREA? Since 1929 many women across the country have enjoyed the invaluable benefits of TG membership. They’ve experienced new things, visited different places, taken on incredible challenges, fought for women’s rights and most importantly developed lasting friendships. Interested in seeing what it is all about? You are welcome to attend a guild before considering membership. If you would like more information or to find your local guild visit
www.the-tg.com/friendship or call 0121 326 0400
Join the TG family JOIN/DLSB
7
Man sets up motor home company - while living in caravan
A serial entrepreneur set up an award-winning motor home company after he moved out of the family home – and into a caravan. Matt Sims founded The Motorhome Holiday Company following the breakdown of his marriage and while at a ‘crossroads’ in his life. Matt, now 49, who has launched nine business and sold several, was spurred on by his desire to provide for his four children and create memories of a lifetime for holidaymakers. He said: “I decided to move into a caravan, which was both brilliant and dire. I was at a crossroads in life at a personal and professional level and looking for a way to move forward. “I enjoyed lovely sunsets and microwave meals for one. But while trudging across the field to go to the shower in chilly, wet weather, I knew it was a short-term solution.” Matt then set up The Motorhome Holiday Company now in Hewish, near Weston – focusing on hiring and selling luxury motorhomes with a focus on great custo mer experience. He said: “I saw the motorhome industry as one with huge potential to grow and I wanted to make it as accessible to as many people as possible.” 8
Motorhome growth The UK motorhome market has continued to enjoy an upward rise in recent years and is at record levels since the pandemic, according to the NCC (National Caravan Council). It is also increasingly appealing to a younger audience, which has been reflected by the changing client-base at The Motorhome Holiday Company. Matt, who grew up in Ashton, Bristol, said: “Unlike caravans, anyone with a driving licence can drive a motorhome and it offers both freedom and comfort. “Our customers were traditionally recent retirees but now it includes people in their early 20s looking for adventure and families with young children who want to travel in style.” With this in mind, the team offers options such as free storage of your car while away, pet-friendly motors, try-before-you-buy and the MotorhomeEarn model- a chance to generate income from your motorhome. Family business Matt, who has since moved to a home in Blagdon, said his children have supported the business – from helping to review motorhomes to working in the shop.
He went on to work as a corporate events manager for a company which rapidly expanded, giving Matt chance to buy a part of the business. Matt met with the directors at McDonalds one morning and bought the event management side of the company for £2 – as that was the only spare change he had on him.
The firm, which has won several industry awards, has also launched That Leisure Shop, a camping and accessory shop which has both a store onsite and online. The team also launched the Staycation Inspiration magazine and weekly campsite availability alerts, with travel guidance and notices of changes in the industry. Matt, a former St Mary Redcliffe and Temple School pupil, said: “My children are the motivator to make this work and it’s great that they can get involved too. We have a great team, who make sure our customers are well- looked after.” Business bought for £2 Matt has experienced his share of ups and downs in business and learned lessons along the way. Matt, who studied media and production planning at what is now the City of Bristol College, toured as a sound engineer and technician for live acts such as U2 during the 1990s. He said he got a lucky break when he had to fill-in for a job last minute and quickly learned the value of strong connections.
He said: “It was a cheeky gesture on my part. Event management and production was no longer core to their business and they didn’t have the resources to invest fully in that area. “They were happy to part with it and I was invited to make an offer. The £2 coin had not long been launched and I happened to have one in my pocket, so I slid it across the table. “The financial director smiled and shook my hand saying ‘congratulations, you just bought the business.” He took the business from start-up to an internationally acclaimed firm, with strong growth in the UK and Abu Dhabi. The role involved frequent international travel and as Matt’s family grew, he sold his share to invest in a new venture in the leisure industry, a move which would mean he could spend more time at home. He later sold his share in Family Travel Centre business to focus on expansion in the motorhome industry. Matt said: “I learned the need for managing growth and cashflow from the event management venture. “I also learned the importance of having open conversations and to be prepared to change if a business no longer fits with your desired lifestyle or aspirations.” · For more information click an image above. 9
A Celebration of Father Ted with Joe Roo FRIDAY, 14 JANUARY Join us in celebrating one of the greatest sitcoms ever made, as we welcome seasoned stand-up comic Joe Rooney for a night of all things Father Ted. Joe featured as the rebellious Father Damo in the classic second series episode The Old Grey Whistle Theft, leading Father Dougal astray with his earring, cigarette smoking and love of Oasis.
www.RedgraveTheatre.com/ 10
Rooney will be reminiscing about his experiences filming the classic Channel 4 series after a showing of the episode itself, before finally rounding the evening off with a live stand-up gig. Come and meet Joe and immerse yourself in the silly delights of Father Ted. Ah, go on…you will!
More information on our society can be found on our website: www.bristolgsos.co.uk Or via our facebook page, @BristolGSOS. 11
Best way to return unwanted Christmas gifts - what you need to know to get money back It’s the thought that counts when it comes to Christmas gifts, but from the item not fitting to it not being quite the right style, returning items to the store can sometimes be a less wasteful option. In order to return a gift, a proof of purchase is required to get a replacement or a cash refund from the retailer. According to Which?, the best way to do this is by handing over the item in question’s gift receipt. However, if a receipt was not given along with the present, you will need to ask for it from the gift giver who bought it for you. Not all high street shops will allow items to be sent back for superficial reasons, however if they have a return policy they must abide by it.
However, people’s likelihood of gifting cash varies dramatically by age and it’s the older generations keeping cash alive. Grandparents slipping their grandkids a fiver in their Christmas card are helped to maintain the trend of giving cash. Some 68 percent of those aged 55 to 64 and 62 percent of those 65 and above gave cash rather than a present last year. But stuffing some cash in an envelope isn’t just the refrain of older people, as 72 percent of those 44 to 54 gave physical cash too. In comparison, just a quarter of 18 to 24-yearolds gave cash and only a third of 25 to 34-year-olds did so too.
The finance expert acknowledged the Under law, an item or gift can be returned and popularity of gift cards, which allow people to refunded if it has been deemed faulty when buy their own presents, however bought online or in-store. Gift cards are still a popular option, with Furthermore, online, phone, or mail two-fifths of people handing over a voucher purchases can be returned no matter the rather than a present last year. reason as long as it is done quickly. Sending a gift card grew in popularity during If an item is bought in-store and is not faulty, the pandemic, as people couldn’t meet to there will be no grounds for the item to be exchange gifts for birthdays and Christmas, returned or refunded. and gift cards for digital games or spending on digital downloads is becoming more When returning a gift with the receipt, you common for children. may be asked who gave it to you and when they bought it. While this was a great option for the person who has everything or the hard-to-buy-for. As As well as having the receipt, it is crucial to around £100m gift cards or vouchers went have this information on hand so the retailer unused during lockdown it might not have knows you are telling the truth. been the wisest choice as some out of town retail centers only allow you to use the gift To avoid the awkwardness that often arises voucher in participating stores like the Mall in from returning Christmas presents, many Cribbs Causeway. households are opting to give cash and gift cards instead. So we urge you to check the small print and not get caught out with a useless voucher A recent survey found that over half of us as it is very hard to get a refund on gift cards gave their loved ones money this Christmas. without the debit or credit card being present. Cash is still king for people giving money at Christmas, with it being the most popular monetary gift during the festive season. 12
So the rule for planning Christmas 2023 in cash is most definitely king.
~ ELECTRICIAN ~ www.PerformElectrical.co.uk
www.barberontrym007.co.uk South Bristol - North Bristol - South Glos - North Somerset
WANT TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS ?
We have over 80,000 readers every month Direct Local Bristol has the solution to help your business get seen more.. Visit www.directlocalbristol.co.uk Email: info@directlocalonline.com Call: 0117 325 8029
Join our mailing list and receive our latest digital interactive versions of our magazines straight to your inbox
Do you struggle to find someone to come and do a small job for you? •Extra Lights •New Fuseboards •Rewires •Extensions •Loft Conversions
•Additional Sockets •EICRS •Security Lighting •Light Replacements •New Installations
Call Jack on
01934 707 142 “I will ensure you of a quick response“ covering north somerset and the surrounding areas Info@performelectrical.co.uk
Why not read our other publications online! South Bristol North Somerset North Bristol South Gloucestershire www.directlocalbristol.co.uk 13
Curried Butternut Squash and Peanut Butter Soup
This is the perfect antidote to those cold January days…
Method
Makes about 6 servings
1. Peel the butternut squash, cut into wedges, remove the seeds and fibres and cut into small chunks.
Prepare less than 30 mins Cook around 40 mins Ingredients • 1kg butternut squash • 40g butter (almond oil if vegan) • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced • 2 sticks of celery, thinly sliced • 2 tsp mild curry powder • 1 litre veg stock • 5 llbs crunchy peanut butter • 300 ml milk (coconut milk if vegan) • A squeeze of lemon juice • Salt and pepper • 50g salted and roasted peanuts chopped, to garnish • Chopped coriander leaf, to garnish 14
2. Melt butter or oil in a large saucepan and cook onion and celery on low, until soft and lightly browned. Add the curry powder and fry for 1 minute, then add the squash and stock. Simmer for a good 20 minutes until the squash is very tender. 3. Puree the soup with the peanut butter (in batches if necessary). Return to the pan with milk and lemon juice and heat up again. Season to taste and serve with the peanut and coriander garnish.
www.gasproboilers.co.uk TRAINING l SERVICE l SALES l HIRE
Bristol's Largest Independent Construction Health & Safety Training Centre
CITB Health & Safety Awareness CITB SSSTS and Refreshers CITB SMSTS and Refreshers First Aid Face Fit Testing IPAF PASMA Forklift Manual Handling Asbestos Awareness Abrasive Wheels Working at Height Scaffold Inspection Ladder & Steps and more...
0117 967 0811 info@davisaccess.co.uk | www.davisaccess.co.uk
Unit 4, Bakers Park, Cater Road, Bishopsworth, Bristol, BS13 7TT
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE EVERYTIME
PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS
ALL PLUMBING & GAS WORK UNDERTAKEN BOILER INSTALLATIONS BOILER REPAIRS POWER FLUSHING UNVENTED SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS 505353 BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS
FULLY INSURED
RECOMENDED
INTEREST FREE CREDIT & 10YR WARRANTY ON NEW BOILER INSTALLATION
Tel: Nathan Proud
07830 448127
thegaspro@gmail.com
15
C J Computing (Systems) Ltd YOUR LOCAL COMPUTER REPAIR SPECIALIST WE HELP FIX ALL COMPUTER PROBLEMS! PC & MAC
Tel: 0117 962 4553
Computer Repair Data Recovery Virus Removal Gaming Hardware Bespoke Pc’s Built www.cjcomputing.com 57 Westbury Hill, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3AD Opposite the free Carpark on Westbury Hill
16
ECO VAN SPARES Bristol’s Transit & Commercial Vehicle Spares Specialist
Cars
Vans
Lorries
WANTED FOR CASH FREE COLLECTION Unit 17, Bakers Park Cater Park Bishopsworth Bristol, BS13 7TT
Tel: 0117 9781919 ECOVANSPARES.COM
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL THINGS ELECTRICAL
EMC
3 YEAR GUARANTEE
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
■ New Installations EICR’s ■ Additional Points Added Rewires ■ LED Lighting Upgrades PAT Testing Fault Finding 0117 422 7222 Emergency Lighting info@emcbristol.co.uk Smoke Detection Systems www.emcbristol.co.uk
17
Vegan Chicken Katsu for Veganuary
More people are signing up to the annual Veganuary pledge, cutting down on meat intake at the start of this year. It’s is going to be a whole lot easier (and tastier!) thanks to award-winning Asian restaurant, Woky Ko. This Veganuary, the Bristol foodie hotspot - which has become synonymous with Katsu Curry - will be launching their very own Vegan Korean Fried Chicken version. Made with their housemade seitan chicken and served with Woky jasmine rice, it promises to be just as crispy and juicy as its meat counterpart - meaning you can still get your Katsu Curry fix all month for just £11.95. Available throughout January for home delivery and click and collect, the vegan goodness delivered direct to doors throughout the city will introduce customers to a greener diet whilst maintaining the level of quality and taste they have been accustomed to expecting from Woky Ko’s signature dish. As well as this brand new addition to the menu, Woky fans will also be able to indulge in vegan alternatives of their favourite dishes, including a Roasted Cauliflower Satay Bao. Managing Director Larkin Cen said: “People are paying much more attention to the amount of meat that they’re eating and it’s all about finding the right balance. 18
We still want people to have the same great Woky Ko experience, which is why we’ve been working on perfecting this new vegan version of our Fried Chicken Katsu Curry.” “For a long time, there was an assumption that vegan food was a little bit boring, but that is absolutely not the case. There’s a real taste for plant-based, in Bristol especially. We’ve introduced a number of vegan dishes and they’re super popular so it felt like it was time to launch a vegan version of our signature - and we’re so excited to launch this in time for Veganuary.” The vegan Korean Fried Chicken Katsu will be available throughout January. You can order your plant-based takeaways directly through the Woky Ko website or via delivery apps such as Deliveroo and Uber Eats. You can also find Woky Ko at their four restaurants in the city: Cargo and Rooftop at Wapping Wharf, St Nicks Market and Lunch Bar on Queens Road. To keep up to date with all new recipes and Woky news, you can follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
SPECIAL OF
FER!
WEBSITES from
£349 ONLY
SELF-EMPLOYED, SMALL OR MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESS AND...
LOOKING FOR A GREAT WEBSITE? Contact us today:
matt@directlocalwebsites.co.uk - Tel: 0117 325 7915 - www.directlocalwebsites.co.uk Free Bonus (With every website!) FREE .co.uk domain name FREE 1 month webhosting FREE Updates for 1 month
BONUS
SAVING £100
Need to get online with your business? No problem we can help with packages designed just for you.Contact us for our latest offers today!
arding Career? Looking for a Rew arer! Become a Foster C You could provide a safe, secure home for local children with unrivalled training & support!
Call us on 0800 035 6499 Visit www.blueskyfostering.com 19
Curry and Conversation workshops to tackle climate change Weston Chamber of Commerce, campaigners, charities and curry houses have joined forces to tackle climate change.
“It’s vital we raise awareness of climate change and the steps we can take to make a difference for future generations.”
Curry and Conversation, held at The Optima Stadium, is a series of sessions looking at environmental issues and steps to make changes. The workshops are led by Naseem Talukdar of Plastic Pollution Awareness & Actions Projects (PPAAP), which aims to end single-use plastic.
Planet and marine life
Naseem, who is also director for social responsibility and sustainability for UK Curry Connect (UKCC) campaign group, said: “We want to rally people round, from a range of fields to tackle this pressing problem and find a long-term solution.”
It reports at least 11 tonnes of plastic is dumped into our seas each year – which can lead to starvation or suffocation of sea life.
The free events, which include curry and refreshments, are hosted by the Chamber and open to all residents and businesses in North Somerset. Debbie Apted, community lead for Cleaner Coastlines: Weston and North Somerset plastic-free campaign (which was launched by the Chamber and Weston Mercury in October 2017), said: “We’ve been working hard to reduce single-use plastic within the community. 20
The first meeting kicked off by looking at the damage plastic has on marine life and humans. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has launched the Clean Seas Campaign to turn the tide on plastic.
In turn, humans may be at risk, such as through eating seafood or skin penetration, with hormonal changes, reproductive abnormalities and cancer. Michelle Cassar, a founding member of City to Sea - set up to stop plastic pollution at source, supports people struggling with environmental anxiety. The surfer, author and photographer said: “Plastic pollution and climate change are intertwined and we need to act. “Pressure needs to continue by individuals and grassroots organisations - only then will action happen from the top.”
Scientists are urging politicians to tackle climate change and the plastic waste crisis together as they are interlinked – leading to issues such as extreme weather and spread of microplastics. Research from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Bangor University found plastic pollution and climate change can exacerbate each other. Michelle added: “Plastic not only affects marine life but likely harms human health as well – from ingesting microplastics to the release of toxic gases when it is burnt.” Recycling - making money and reducing landfill The group looked at how recycling can earn money from use of the materials, while cutting down on disposal costs and trips to landfill. Landfills release greenhouse gases and rubbish can break down at a very slow rate, which remains a problem for future generations. Weston Hospicecare gets over £1 million pound of its revenue from recycling – with people’s donated goods. The charity has also introduced a scheme where people can recycle their ink cartridges and hundreds have already been dropped off
Funding and future events Weston Chamber received grant funding from the Quartet Community Foundation, Megawatt Community Energy Fund, which supports community action on reducing carbon in our atmosphere and making energy more affordable. The next Curry and Conversation event is set to take place on Monday, January 17, from 11am until 2.30pm. It will include free curry, provided by Chutneys, and refreshments. Topics discussed at this event will be food and the natural environment, including rewilding and tree planting. Future sessions will cover fast fashion and the circular economy, clean energy and green tech, as well as carbon footprint and transport. There are 40 free spaces available at each workshop and booking is essential. For full details and how to register click the image above.
Mark Flower, director of fundraising and communications, said: “Recycling brings in money for the charity and also helps to reduce waste which would otherwise go to landfill.” Environmental societies Carl Gibbon, who is studying biological sciences at the University Centre Weston, attended Curry and Conversation to get further insight into various environmental issues. He said: “We’re looking at setting up an environmental society and it’s been helpful to get an insight into the issues we are facing and various options. “It’s important to look at ways to reduce plastic and create a more sustainable way of living.”
21
Top tips for achieving your 2022 goals
A new year often brings with bit thoughts of a fresh start, this is especially true in the health of business where after the indulgence of Christmas new health goal are particularly popular. However many New Year’s resolutions don’t make it to February. So if you’ve already started your goals or are planning on starting something soon, here are just two ideas that may help you achieve them in 2022. Be realistic with you goal in short term. Drastic changes in diet can occasionally bring a sudden improvement but if this isn’t a healthy and maintainable method of losing weight - the impact of the change can very quickly plateau leading to a sharp return to old habits. Dropping lots of weight immediately in the first few weeks of the year may sound great, but even if you achieve this, you would then be highly likely to regain this weight and more within a short space of time. The most efficient way of losing weight is with steady and consistent progress through a routine of diet and exercise that you can do permanently. If you find yourself with goals that are too demanding in short term, give yourself a more realistic time frame and never be afraid to adjust your goals once you’ve set them. 22
It is always better to have something to aim for than heading off without plan. Keep an accurate track of your results. So much emphasis is put on what the scales say, but I find this way of measuring a person’s progress to be completely flawed and highly disheartening. What are we actually trying to measure? Fat! So why do we weigh the bones, the hair, the skin, the muscles and the fluids all together and make determining decisions on health based from the outcome? For men the best indicators of how you’re doing is to measure around the stomach, for women it’s around the thighs and buttocks, but of course you can do both and various other areas for even greater accuracy. Identify the area of greatest circumference (where most of the fat is being stored) and measure the same are at the same time of day once every two weeks. This will give a far more accurate view of your progress and how the changes in your diet are impacting your health. Good luck and happy new year!
Need a local business? Everything from plumbers to florists, mechanics to hairdressers - Find local businesses on Bristol Business Directory!
Search local businesess
Bristol’s Business Directory
.co.uk
“ Everything Local All In One Place”
WINDOWS | DOORS | ROOFLIGHTS
www.pinterest.co.uk/crystalclearbristol www.facebook.com/crystalclearbristol
Aluminium, Timber, PVCu, Windows, Doors & Rooflights Plan your dream home
Visit Bristol’s Biggest Showroom 24 Emery Road Brislington, Bristol BS4 5PF To find out more, call 01179 717 880 or visit www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk
23
Homes being prepared for sales boom The days following Boxing Day saw a huge increase in the number of people browsing online for a new home with estate agents in North Somerset predicting a New Year house sales boom. Visitors to online sites, such as Rightmove, soared as people took advantage of downtime to make plans for the future and Andrew Simmonds, director of Parker’s Estate Agents in Backwell, North Somerset says January is looking like a busy time. He said: “Some people got ahead of the game by instructing agents before the break and with the level of online activity reported they are set to benefit with quick sales. That will mean a strong number of people in North Somerset and Bristol who can proceed quickly as they already have offers on the homes they need to sell. “All this means that by Twelfth Night when the Christmas decorations come down we anticipate a very busy time.” Mr Simmonds says that people looking to move in the first half of 2022 should take advantage of the packing away of Christmas decorations to prepare their homes for photography. 24
He said: “Most enquiries now start with online browsing and it is the photographs that make the difference to whether people scroll on or want to look at a property. “We invest in professional photography for sellers but photographers can only do the best with what they are presented with. Clearing away clutter and making your home look spacious and attractive is the first step to moving home. “So we are asking those looking to sell to use the opportunity of clearing away the Christmas decorations to get their home picture ready. Clear clutter, plump up the cushions, get the bathrooms and kitchens clean and tidy and photographs can be taken ready to market the property when you are ready.” Parker’s Estate Agents recorded low availability of properties for sale in the run-up to Christmas but expect a rush to market in the first two months of 2022.
Supporting over 8,000 families
We champion training and innovation to support our teams to deliver outstanding care. Residents’ quality of life is at the heart of everything we do, helping individuals to stay active and independent so they can live each day to the full. If you’re considering care, call 01174 057618 or email nicola.wolff-donitz@careuk.com
Trusted to care.
Rated
9.5
out of 10 on carehome.co.uk
Trymview Hall care home Southmead careuk.com/trymview-hall 25
Stunning DIY Garden Room Kits; Designed by Future SIPs, Installed by You
Create the Additional Space You Need with an Efficient, Insulated SIP Garden Room from Future SIPs With working from home no longer the preserve of the fortunate few and the term ‘hybrid working’ becoming one of the most widely used by businesses, it’s no surprise that the popularity of having a useable room in the garden is at an all-time high. As we continue to navigate our way through the global pandemic and most of us experience new ways of working, the need for additional space in our homes has become more important than ever before. We’ve adapted to our changing work styles and environments, and as we’ve done so it’s become clear that the changes in working situations for many companies and their employees are here to stay; with a great number of people continuing to work from home or transitioning into a hybrid form of working. With a reputation for a forward-thinking approach, together with 10 years of expertise in designing, manufacturing and building garden rooms, glamping pods and timber framed buildings, Future Rooms is a family-owned and run business that prides itself on developing stunning garden rooms suitable for a variety of domestic and commercial uses. 26
As the working landscape changed, Future Rooms experienced an unprecedented demand for its beautiful garden rooms and started to receive enquiries from home owners unable to wait for a garden room to be installed and keen to buy the walls, floor and roof and build it themselves. As enquiries for self-build garden rooms increased, the team designed a highly energy-efficient DIY garden room kit, The Studio, manufactured by their sister company Future SIPs and their expanding team, all employed at their Gloucestershire-based premises. All garden rooms by Future Rooms and garden room kits by Future SIPs are manufactured at their purpose-built workshop in Gloucestershire, where they recently designed and installed a plant to produce their SIPs, enabling them to expand their offering to the public and builders and provide expert advice and recommendations. Designed and built to meet the needs of homeowners who aren’t in a position to wait months for a garden room, office or studio, the ‘Shell Kits’, ‘Shell and External Kits’ and ‘Complete Kits’ manufactured by Future SIPs are suitable for a competent DIY enthusiast or local builder to install themselves.
With a DIY garden room kit, homeowners can improve their homes and add space and value, without the need to move, often creating a room that can be enjoyed by every member of the family. The structural insulated panels (SIPs) are supplied by Future SIPs as a complete Shell Kit for the chosen garden room and include the number of required SIPs to construct the floor, walls and roof. Homeowners can finish the room to their specification, with a choice of roof finish, external cladding and glazing. The team places great importance on attention to detail and delivering the highest standards of customer service, whatever the size and style of garden room, from a welcoming home office to a multifunctional room that can be used for work during the day, exercise in the evening and entertainment over the weekend.
There are four stunning garden room showrooms, based on The Studio, and installed using Shell Kit, Shell and External Kit and ‘Complete Kit, at Future SIP’s premises in the Gloucestershire countryside in Staunton, where there’s always a warm welcome. The showroom is open from 10:00am until 4:00pm Monday to Friday and by appointment on Saturday, where the team are on hand to discuss requirements for outdoor rooms that make a beautiful and useful addition to any home and garden. For further information, call Future SIPs on 01452 840284 or visit their website at https://www.futuresips.co.uk/.
27
PEOPLE ARE LIVING INDEPENDENTLY FOR LONGER TO AVOID ‘FEELING OLD BEFORE THEIR TIME’ According to research carried out by leading real estate lawyers, people are living independently for longer in a bid to avoid ‘feeling old before their time’. Research by Clarke Willmott LLP shows that although people may consider the idea of moving into a later living development from as early as age 55, the main drawback is the worry that they’ll feel older than they should. The results come from a survey carried out by the national firm to explore perceptions and attitudes towards the retirement living sector. While over 50% of respondents said they would consider moving to a later living development before the age of 75, 34% said they would only consider the move at the age of 75+ and 13% at age 85+. Fifty percent of the 300 respondents said the main reason for having reservations is feeling old before their time while other reasons cited for not taking the leap into retirement living include service charge costs, isolation from the wider community and safety in terms of health concerns. Clarke Willmott specialises in supporting real estate developer and investor clients in the Later Living sector on anything from site acquisition, planning and the environment, construction and facilities management to home sales, property finance and dispute resolution. Clarke Willmott CEO, Stephen Rosser, said: “We were very interested to note that over 50% of respondents would consider moving to a retirement development before the age of 75 but 50% also were worried about feeling old before their time. “People are looking to live independently for longer to extend that feeling of youth but we believe that moving to a development where there is help on hand supports that.
28
From our close work with developers and investors we know that Later Living schemes are modern, vibrant and fit-for-purpose for a wide range of ages and needs but it’s clear that these developments need a bit of a rebrand in order for public perception to change. “Having said that, we carried out this survey after seeing an uptick in demand for residential developments designed for retirees and older clientele. It’s a rapidly growing market and one which will adapt to the changing needs of its users.” Chris Fayers, director of Blue Cedar Homes a client of Clarke Willmott, said: “We understand that there is a perception of retirement developments being too ‘institutional’ or only for the very elderly but that’s not the case. “We provide homes that have fewer bedrooms, smaller footplates but are reasonably luxurious single detached properties on schemes that are dedicated to those 55-65 and over. “These developments allow people to continue to live longer in a manner that they have become accustomed to, the difference being they have a new dwelling with appropriate facilities and in a community that is independent but perhaps more appropriate than a new house on a standard open market estate type development.” Stephen Rosser continued: “The survey certainly makes for useful reading for anyone with an interest in the sector. Over the coming months we will be using the results to tailor our advice and services for clients and produce helpful articles on specific aspects of the findings.” Clarke Willmott has extensive expertise in the later living sector acting for a number of major later living developers, including Retirement Villages, Blue Cedar Homes and LifeStory Group as well as advising a range of later living care providers across the UK.
OUT EVERY THURSDAY!! SUBSCRIBE TODAY! TO BRISTOL’S ONLY WEEKLY DIGITAL INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE
JOIN THE REVOLUTION.. Want all the latest news first, straight to your inbox? Then visit hit the button subscribe below!
SUBSCRIBE
Did You See This? So Did Your Next Customer This Space is Only
£63
CONTACT US NOW TO ADVERTISE
t: 0117 325 8029 e: info@directlocalonline.com w: www.directlocalbristol.co.uk Bristol’s Quality Advertising Magazines
29
Clearance for new clinic from fertility regulator The go-ahead has been given by the fertility regulator, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), for the opening of a new state-of-the-art fertility and IVF clinic at Aztec West, Bristol. The clinic’s operator, the Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine (BCRM), is completing final testing and has the green light to begin treating patients at its new state-of-the-art site from the beginning of the January. Consultations with new and existing patients will resume immediately after the New Year bank holiday, and the first embryo transfer procedure is scheduled for 10 January. Medical director, Amanda Jefferys, said: “This move is incredibly exciting for all the staff at BCRM and the new larger premises will enable us to meet the growing demand for our fertility services. “It’s taken months of careful planning and a huge investment of time and money, so we’re delighted to receive the HFEA’s authorisation to open in January.” The two-storey building is twice the size of the current premises on the Southmead Hospital site and the increased capacity will enable more patients with fertility issues – both male and female - to be treated.
30
The new clinic will feature ultra-modern theatres and high-tech embryology labs with the latest equipment, and is to be staffed by the same expert team, plus a few new faces. There will also be space to allow more teaching, training and research to take place. Benefits for patients include greater ease of access - close to the junctions of the M4 and M5 motorways - ample free parking, and more space within the clinic for personal consultations with its world-leading fertility experts. BCRM is the longest-established fertility clinic in Bristol, has consistently had some of the highest success rates in the country for IVF, and treats both NHS and private patients. The team plans to add to the treatments it offers which currently include IVF and ICSI treatment, IUI treatment, use of donor sperm, egg donation, frozen embryo transfer and complex treatments including fertility surgery. All current patients have been advised of the move and further details are available by emailing Quality@BCRM.clinic or at www.fertilitybristol.com
31
32
WHATS ON AT THE CINEMA
THE ELECTRICAL LIFE OF LOUIS WAIN The true story of eccentric British artist Louis Wain (Benedict Cumberbatch), whose playful, psychedelic pictures transformed the public’s perception of cats forever. Set in the early 1900s, we follow Wain as he seeks to unlock the “electrical” mysteries of the world and, in so doing, to better understand his own life and the profound love he shared with his wife Emily Richardson (Claire Foy).
THE KING’S MAN As a collection of history's worst tyrants and criminal masterminds gather to plot a war to wipe out millions, one man must race against time to stop them. Discover the origins of the very first independent intelligence agency in The King's Man. Top Billed Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton, Rhys Ifans, Matthew Goode, Tom Hollander, Harris Dickinson, Daniel Brühl, with Djimon Hounsou, Charles Dance
33
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 NEW 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.
Kids bored after Christmas? Download our colouring in sheet https://directlocalbristol.co.uk/competitions/ Socialist Monstrous Franchise Application Rear Duck Stroke Blank Output Forge Record Fare Measure Rape Silence Essential Adopt Feeling Toast Pity 34
Word Search
Sudoku
EASY
HARD
MEDIUM
EXTREME
5 differences between these two pictures. Are your eyes good enough to see them all?
35
The garden in January
The garden in January needs to be prepared for all sorts of weathers, and if you’ve been following our advice over the last few months, your hard work is done for now. Most plants are dormant this month as they sleep through the cold weather, but there are still a few things to do in the garden. Spring is just around the corner and work can be done to prepare for the warmth of the new season. When its not too cold, beds and borders can be dug over and lawn edges can be repaired and
Plant of the Month Helleborus Why should you plant them?
The essential gardening jobs for January Protect plants
Dig over bare ground
January is known for cold frosts and bitter winds so plants will need protecting.
Run a fork through your vegetable patch or flower beds.This will help to aerate – getting air into the soil is If you haven’t already done important because plant so, ensure protective fleeces roots need oxygen. are in place on tender plants over-wintering outdoors. Choose a dry day when the soil isn’t too wet. Don’t break Lift containers up onto pot your back breaking down feet – if water isn’t draining large lumps of soil. away the soil can become waterlogged. Keeping them large can help air circulate and any later Wet compost can rot roots frosts will break them up. and cause pots to crack in frost. Feed the birds Remove snow from tree and shrub branches by knocking with a broom. Even a small amount of snow can add a lot of weight to branches, causing them to snap.
36
Natural food sources for birds are in short supply during the winter. Give them a helping hand by putting food out for them. Keep the food topped up but not full all the time – little and often is best.
Popular because they flower in cold winter and early spring, Hellebores herald the start of the New Year bringing a touch of colour to the garden. Commonly know as ‘ Christmas Roses’ they are easy to grow and very hardy. They produce attractive flowers and their leaves create a perfect evergreen backdrop to spring flowering bulbs. How should you plant them? Plant in shady herbaceous borders and the areas between deciduous shrubs to give an early splash of colour. Happy in dappled shade they should be planted in rich, heavy soil that won’t dry out in the summer. ideal planting companies include Snowdrops, Primrose, Cornus and Mahonia.
C J Computing (Systems) Ltd YOUR LOCAL COMPUTER REPAIR SPECIALIST WE HELP FIX ALL COMPUTER PROBLEMS! PC & MAC
Tel: 0117 962 4553
Computer Repair Data Recovery Virus Removal Gaming Hardware Bespoke Pc’s Built www.cjcomputing.com 57 Westbury Hill, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3AD Opposite the free Carpark on Westbury Hill
37
Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18
Taurus Apr 20 - May 20
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
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 on and 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
Gemini May 21 - June 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
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 and remember.
Aries Mar 21 - April 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
38
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.
Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22
Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21
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
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
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
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
39
40
